Tag Archives: Homes With Hope

Roundup: Fine Arts Festival, Ospreys, Dementia …

Posted on May 29, 2023 | 1 comment

The 50th annual Fine Arts Festival ended yesterday just as it began Saturday: with huge crowds, a great variety of excellent art, plenty of music and food, and tons of smiles.

The Westport Downtown Association drew raves for the organization, execution and energy of what many called the “best ever” of all 50 shows.

The family-friendly event included a children’s art project, sponsored by the Artists Collective of Westport. Youngsters drew a huge whale in chalk, near Bedford Square.

It was part of Westport artist Jana Ireijo’s “Vanishing Mural” project. It looked great. But it will eventually disappear — emphasizing the fragility of the natural world.

The not-yet-completed, but eventually vanishing, whale. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The Fine Arts Festival was pet-friendly too — for real dogs, and artistic ones.

(Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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Yesterday, as Carolyn Doan does what she often does — checking on the Fresh Market ospreys — a concerned woman in the parking lot said she had not seen them in a couple of weeks. She worried they were no longer there.

Carolyn reports, happily, that all is well. Both adults were in the nest, doing fine.

“They are probably taking care of hatching eggs or very young chicks now,” she says.

“When they sit on the eggs, it’s very hard to see them. Thank you to the nice lady who asked about them!”

And thank you, Carolyn, for sending along this photo:

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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Of all the difficult traffic merges in town, one of the worst is heading west on Coleytown Road, where it runs into Lyons Plains Road.

You stop, crane your neck, and hope for the best. Not only can’t you see to the right — but oncoming traffic does not stop, in either direction.

Some drivers may not be aware of that last fact.

Fortunately, a new addition to the stop sign lets you know.

It won’t help you see. But in this case at least, a little knowledge is not a dangerous thing.

(Photo and hat tip: Stacy Prince)

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The League of Women Voters of Westport’s annual meeting and lunch is Wednesday, June 7 (11:30 a.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church).

The public is invited — and welcome to stay for a very timely panel.

The topic: “Building Consensus in Today’s Political Climate.” Panelists include  Jim Marpe, former Westport first selectman; Ken Bernhard, former Connecticut state representative, and Dr. Nora Madjar, associate professor of management at the University of Connecticut School of Business.

The lunch (cheese platter, sliced beef tenderloin, poached salmon, 4 salads, dessert) is $50 per person. RSVP to celestelacroix@hotmail.com, or send checks to LWV Westport, PO Box 285, Westport, CT 06881.

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Homes with Hope brought back its famed “Gather ‘Round the Table” fundraiser, for Project Return at Susie’s House.

Among the 240 guests at the Shorehaven Golf Club luncheon were the keynote speaker,  Connecticut Commissioner of Housing Seila Mosquera-Bruno; Westport 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and the many town employees who work hard behind the scenes to support the home and program.

Plans have been approved for renovations, to better accommodate homeless women in Fairfield County. The program offers long-term housing in a nurturing, home-like environment.

From left: Lena Holleran, Connecticut Department of Housing; Homes With Hope program director Paris Looney; Seila Mosquero Bruno, Connecticut Commissioner of Housing; executive director Helen McAlinden;; Carmen Ayala of Homes with Hope, at the “Gather ‘Round the Table” fundraiser.

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Looking for “The Complete Family Guide to Dementia”?

Thomas Harrison and Dr. Brent Forester — authors of a book by the same name — will be at The Residence at Westport on June 19 (4 p.m.), talking about that subject.

A limited number of complimentary books are available. To RSVP, email ddunning@residencewestport.com, or call 203-349-2002.

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Before he graduated in 2005, Igor Pikayzen was already one of the most talented violinists in Staples High School’s long musical history.

After Juilliard, a master’s degree and artist’s diploma from Yale University, a doctorate in musical arts at CUNY and solo appearances with major orchestras at Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall in New York, Tchaikovsky Hall in Moscow and more, he founded Festivo Edalio.

The opening concert June 11 (7:30 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church) celebrates the joy of sharing live music.

Pikayzen will play Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.” As the violinist says, “‘Edelio’ means ‘forever young.’ This masterpiece remains beloved 300 years after it was composed.”

The program also includes the “Estaciones Porteñas” of Argentine legend Astor Piazzolla.

Edelio continues at the Pequot Library June 14 (7 p.m.). The return to chamber music features Mozart’s impeccable piano quartet in G minor, the rarely played edgy and tumultuous first Shostakovich trio, and the triumphant Dvorak piano quartet.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Igor Pikayzen

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Most “Westport … Naturally” photos are completely natural.

Today’s, from Hillandale Road, shows a man-made assist to Mother Nature.

Come to think of it, the hedge and stone wall look a bit unnatural too.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … on this (and every) Memorial Day, we salute all the men and women who served in our armed forces. And we remember the far too many, who gave their lives so that we can be here today, living ours.

(“06880” is honored to bring you news and information about Westport, on this holiday and every day. Please consider a contribution to help us continue. Click here — and thank you.) 

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Environment, Politics, Transportation

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Unsung Heroes #282

Posted on April 19, 2023 | 2 comments

There are many Unsung Heroes at Homes with Hope — Westport’s supportive housing agency. Here are 3 of them.

At the suggestion of Lynn Abramson, Brie Garrison writes:

06880’s most recent Unsung Heroes came in in the guise of the Easter bunny. Just ask the children and families of Homes with Hope. They will assure all doubters that the Easter bunny is real!

Every spring for the past 10 years, Sharon and Sam Carpenter have organized friends and family to put together spectacular personalized Easter baskets, Easter meals, and other treats for the children who attend ASAP (Homes with Hope’s after-school program), and the families who live in HwH’s supportive housing.

This year, they outdid themselves with Easter goodies for 18 families and 35 children.

From left: Homes with Hope program manager Lynn Abramson, Sam Carpenter, Sharon Carpenter.

Members of the supporting team provide individual items like gift cards to Stop & Shop, and Saugatuck Sweets. Others send cash to help purchase other items.

This year, in addition to the traditional chocolate bunnies and other Easter candies, each child received PJ’s, socks, a water bottle, a beach towel, and assorted toys and art supplies.

Their moms received beautiful flower arrangements from Compo Farms Flowers along with a ham or turkey and all the fixings needed for a celebratory dinner.

A huge effort is required to organize and personalize the baskets by family, age, dietary restrictions, etc. After they are artfully assembled and delivered to Homes with Hope, our case managers have the privilege of delivering them to the lucky recipients.

The staff and families of Homes with Hope salute Sharon, Sam and their friends, and thank them for making the Easter holiday such a joyous one each year!

Our other Homes with Hope Unsung Hero is …

Pat Wilson. She began working part time at Homes with Hope 20 years ago: in April 2003.

Ever since, she has been a familiar and happy face at the Gillespie Homeless Emergency Center. She is kind, considerate, and has a passion for her work.

In addition to Westport, Pat works full time in a Stamford shelter.

Residents and staff at the Gillespie Center know Pat is there to support them. They look forward to the days she works.

Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden ( and vice president Paris Looney (standing, from left) honor Pat Wilson.

Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden calls Pat “a real team player. She is always available to pitch in. She is a gem.”

For those reasons — echoed by so many others — Pat Wilson joins Sharon and Sam Carpenter as our “06880” Unsung Heroes this week.

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email nominations to 06880blog@gmail.com)

(Be a hero! Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

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Unsung Hero #281

Posted on April 12, 2023 | 4 comments

When Julia Berg began volunteering at ASAP — Homes with Hope’s After School Academic Program — the summer after freshman year, she noticed that many of the children said things like, “I can’t do this” or “I’m no good at that.”

Julia wanted more positive messaging. She did some research, and found exercises to help. She realized that saying something as simple as “You can do this!” paid dividends.

She introduced “growth mindset vocabulary,” and outlined steps the boys and girls could take to establish goals, and change negative self-talk to positives talk.

Kids smiled more. And their schoolwork improved.

She spread the word to other volunteers. Now, Julia says, that positivity is an important part of the ASAP program.

Julia Berg

She then created a second program. It targets problem-solving skills, and helps participants manage frustrations. The program includes self-evaluation, teaching the importance of understanding thoughts and feelings, and connecting that with decisions.

That’s not the only volunteer work the Staples High School junior does. She spends time at Norwalk’s George Washington Carver Community Center too, helping youngsters hone their educational and social skills.

She created a blog about the center, combining her interest in psychology, photography and writing while sharing the impact of Carver’s enrichment program.

In her spare time — when she’s not doing all that, and collaborating and competing with teammates on Staples’ robotics team — Julia is compiling a database of local programs. The goal is to help people locate needed resources easily, using categories like food pantries, shelters, medical clinics and public transportation.

Last year, during an Independent Learning Experience at Staples, Julia studied embedded systems theory. She created an alarm mechanism that plays tones and songs at specific intervals, as reminders for students with attention issues to get back on track.

Students like Julia make Westport, and neighboring communities, better places. That’s why she is our Unsung Hero this week.

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com)

(Unsung Hero is a weekly feature of “06880.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Unsung Heroes

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Roundup: Clocks Ahead, CHEF Fund, Verso University …

Posted on March 11, 2023 | 19 comments

Tonight is the night we love to hate.

We lose an hour’s sleep — but we gain an hour of sunlight for the next 8 months. Set your clocks ahead for Daylight Saving Time.*

If you’re one of those who forgets between now and bedtime: Stick a Post-It note on the clock by your bed.

Sweet (if shortened) dreams!

* Yes, it’s officially daylight “saving,” not “savings.” Who knew?

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In the aftermath of the death of Matthew Balga — the chef killed on Riverside Avenue last Saturday night, after leaving work at The Whelk — his co-workers and family have organized a fundraiser. Money raised will support culinary education in Connecticut.

“Chef Matteo” had worked for For the Food restaurant owners Bill Taibe and Rachel Golan for over 18 years. Friends said he loved classic cars, played the guitar, had a sarcastic wit, and “most of all, was a loving man who loved to cook.”

The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) is the non-profit philanthropic arm of the Connecticut Restaurant Association. It provides education for future restaurant industry professionals, workforce development opportunities and scholarships. Click here to contribute. (Hat tip: Westport Magazine)

Chef Matthew Balga

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The Westport Library offers plenty of innovative spaces and technologies, aimed at 21st century models of literacy and learning.

This spring, there will be more.

The Library is launching “Verso University.” The year-round series of high-level classes, workshops and lectures will further education and “learning for a lifetime.”

Offerings include one-time lectures, ongoing courses, and classes that meet weekly or monthly. They cover a wide variety of topics, with appeal to all ages and interests.

“Spring semester” includes

Launch Lecture: Martin Yellin on Space (Monday, March 13, 1 to 2 p.m.): Longtime Westporter and scientist Martin Yellin will provide an overview of the fascinating and unexpected discoveries made in space, and how we’ve begun to understand where we are and how we got here. Click here for more information.

The Range of Literary Realism: 4 Masterpieces of 21st Century Fiction, with Dr. Mark Schenker (Tuesdays, April 4 & 18, May 2 & 16, 2 to 3 p.m.): The noted lecturer in English at Yale University examines novels that reflect the range of literary realism as portrayed in 21st century fiction:

  • April 4: Wolf Hall, by Hilary Mantel
  • April 18: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, by Mark Haddon
  • May 2: Life After Life, by Kate Atkinson
  • May 16: Small Things Like These, by Claire Keegan

Got Problems? Think Them Through for Better Problem Solving! (May) Problem-solving coaches Mike Hibbard and Patricia Cyganovich will teach problem-solving processes to use in any area of life.

Fiction Writing Master Class, with Gabino Iglesias (May): Renowned noir writer and Westport Library StoryFest alum Gabino Iglesias teaches a master class-style writing workshop.

Crew Call (Rolling admission, spring through fall): Crew Call is a training program focused on live media production skills. Volunteers of all ages gain real-world experience in video recording and production. Crew Call participants support many Library productions.

Marty Yellin launches the Verso University series.

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The walk from Schlaet’s Point to Old Mill will soon look different.

254 Hillspoint Road has been approved for demolition.

It sold in January for $5 million.

254 Hillspoint Road

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Rowers love to hate the erg machine. That’s the fitness machine they use relentlessly on land.

But recently, junior members of Saugatuck Rowing Club eagerly jumped on board. The occasion: a “Row for Dough Erg-a-thon” fundraiser for Homes with Hope. The local non-profit provides supportive housing and a food pantry, in downtown Westport.

Both boys and girls teams participated in individual 10K races (over 6.2 miles), and raised over $6,500.

SRC junior rowers also volunteer at the Gillespie Center food pantry, and helping with other Homes with Hope projects.

Saugatuck Rowing Club captains (from left): Jack Kiely, Lauren Schramm, Hannah Clemens, Dylan Halky, Cooper Levinson, Janna Moore.

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In 14 years of photos showing entitled parkers, “06880” has shown Range Rovers, BMWs, Jeeps, and just about every other make and model of car.

We’ve never called out a motorcycle, though.

There’s a reason: They can park just about anywhere.

Except like this:

Yesterday, at Wakeman Field. (Photo/Gery Grove)

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Speaking of stuff that shouldn’t be there:

Sal Liccione sends along this picture …

… and a note: “It’s been there for 3 weeks.”

I assume he’s talking about the garbage, not the car. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Over 200 fans filled the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum for last night’s Blue Coupe concert. The band includes former Alice Cooper guitarist Dennis Dunaway, and Joe and Albert Bouchard of Blue Öyster Cult.

The event — a benefit for VersoFest, the music and media festival that kicks off March 30 — was co-produced by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

They’re collaborating on upcoming shows too, including Verso Fest‘s Sunflower Bean (March 30), the Smithereens (March 31) and the Johnny Folsom 4 at “Supper & Soul” (May 13).

Blue Coupe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Connecticut Attorney General William Tong got up early yesterday, for an important session: He addressed the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club’s meeting at Greens Farms Church.

Tong discussed his role as the chief civil attorney for the state, including notable litigation on tobacco, opioids and gun control.

Attorney General William Tong at Westport Sunrise Rotary. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Last night’s “Teens at MoCA” Film Showcase drew a good crowd to the Newtown Turnpike space.

More than a dozen teenagers screened films they made — each 5 minutes or less. The event — and a raffle — benefited the Teens at MoCA group.

Ava Waldman of Teens at MoCA introduces a film. (Photo/Cynthia Dempster)

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Westport author Elaine Clayton’s “The Way of the Empath” was just named one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2022, by Spirituality & Practice.

A wide range of topics and religions make up the list. Click here to see.

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Spotted at Compo Beach, and very appropriate for our “Westport … Naturally” feature: a “sea turtle.”

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … in honor of the very entitled dude who doesn’t know how to park  his motorcycle (story above):

(Two important things to do before bed tonight: 1) Turn your clocks ahead; 2) Thank “06880” for reminding you. Please click here to make a contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Real estate, Sports, Transportation

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Unsung Heroes #277

Posted on March 8, 2023 | 1 comment

Westport’s calendar is packed with fundraising events.

Each week, there are galas to choose from. They feature food, drinks, silent and live auctions, and entertainment.

Westporters support them all generously. We pay good money, for great causes.

But these events don’t just happen. They take a ton of behind-the-scenes work, by corps of hard-working volunteers. Committed to the non-profits they serve, they spend countless hours making sure everyone has a good time (and buys tickets, bids on items, etc.).

Some are singled out for thanks. Many are not. Of course, that’s not why they help. They just want to make our community a better place for all.

Last Saturday’s “Fashionably Westport” was one of those very important benefits. Organized by the Westport Downtown Association, to raise funds for Homes with Hope — our wonderful supportive housing and food pantry organization — the 2-day event includes shopping and store promotions.

The centerpiece was a fashion show at the Westport Library. Over 60 models showcased apparel from 21 local businesses. Hair and makeup was done by 6 salons. Restaurants and spirit shops provided food and drink.

On the runway at Fashionably Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)

It was an enormous undertaking, involving months of preparation and attention to detail.

Sometimes things go wrong. Saturday’s MC rubbed some attendees the wrong way. She mocked some merchants, made inappropriate “jokes,” and sent at least a dozen people to early exits.

Yet none of that detracts from the real heroes of the event: the men and women who worked tirelessly to put on a great fashion show (and more); the many local businesses who donated goods and time, and the Westport Downtown Association and Homes with Hope, who partnered for a crucial cause in a creative, fun (and fundraising) way.

“06880” salutes all the individuals, businesses and organizations that make “Fashionably Westport” — and so many other events like it — so successful. You are our Unsung Heroes of the week.

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Let us know: 06880blog@gmail.com.)

Coming May 10: the 17th annual “Taste of Westport.” The Inn at Longshore event benefits CLASP Homes.

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Roundup: Grand List, Nomade, Antarctica …

Posted on February 7, 2023 | 6 comments

How grand is the Grand List?

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses that important financial document — what it is, how it’s grown, how it helps fund town services, and what it all means to residents — on the latest “Westport … What’s Happening?” podcast.

Click below to listen. The series is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Connecticut Magazine’s “Best New Restaurants” list is out.

And the statewide winner — in the “Readers’ Choice” poll — is Nômade.

The Main Street spot with the international menu did not make the “Experts’ Picks” list.

But what do they know?

Click here for the full poll.

Nomade

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Just in time for the Super Bowl, the Westport Police Department and Westport Sunrise Rotary Club are sponsoring a “Souper Bowl of Caring” food drive. All donations support Homes with Hope, and Westport’s Department of Human Services food pantries.

Non-perishable foods can be brought to Stop & Shop this Saturday (February 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Can’t make it then? Hammer & Nails — the new men’s grooming lounge at 606 Post Road East — is accepting food donations all week long.

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Westporters love to travel. Some have climbed Mount Everest; many roam far and wide. But visiting all 7 continents is still quite rare.

Last month, 3 Westporters completed their quest to visit all 7 continents.

Rick and Totney Benson, and Mark Mathias, visited both South America and Antarctica, qualifying us for membership in the 7 Continent Club.

Mathias was with his wife Kim. That’s her 6th continent; she’s missing only Australia.

They were with one group. Meanwhile, the Bensons traveled with Wilton-based Tauck Tours.

They found out about each other when the Bensons arrived in Buenos Aires, and saw Mathias’ name on a card from someone picking them up at the airport.

It’s a small world indeed. But, as Stephen Wright said, I wouldn’t want to have to paint it.

Rick and Totney Benson in Antarctica …

… and Mark and Kim Mathias, with friends.

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And — because “06880” truly is “Where Westport meets the world” — here is another local story from Antarctica. Bill Kutik writes:

“I love adventure travel. I just rode an expedition ship from the southern tip of South America, hugging the coast of Antarctica, and finishing near the southern tip of New Zealand.

“It took 30 days to get from the Western Hemisphere to the Eastern Hemisphere under the bottom of the earth. Despite being upside down the whole time, we didn’t fall off once!

“An intrepid hiker (and founding editor of Backpacker magazine in 1972), I had to tour New Zealand’s famous mountains used in the movies Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Power of the Dog.’ Here’s a photo of me from Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast (fresh from the helicopter).

Bill Kutik above Doubtful Bay.

“But my heart was captured by this eager, welcoming sign outside Westport, New Zealand. It’s a former port town — just like us.”

Bill Kutik in Westport — New Zealand.

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Expanding our horizons even beyond Antarctica: “Our galaxy was a quasar.”

That’s the topic for the next Westport Astronomical Society lecture. This one — with Professor Joshua Tan of LaGuardia Community College — is live, in the WAS classroom (February 21, 8 p.m.).

This will be Tan’s third appearance at the Astronomical Society. An optical astronomer, he studies short-period binary millisecond pulsars, open problems in binary modeling, neutron star physics, and 3-body dynamics.

Joshua Tan

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Each year, Westport middle and high school students rock the National History Day competition.

They do it thanks to beyond-the-call help from their teachers — and extra attention from community members, who help students through the research and writing process.

Dr. Lauren Francese, townwide social studies coordinator, invites community members to help in a new capacity this year: as judges in the Fairfield County regional competition (Saturday, March 18, Sacred Heart University).

Judges do not need to be history or education experts. What’s needed is engaged, empathetic feedback to students on their papers, websites, museum exhibits, performances, and documentaries). Training is provided to all volunteers the morning of the event.

Click here to sign up as a judge. Questions? Email tony48nhd@gmail.com.

The Bedford Middle School National History Day team, at the 2018 national competition.

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Hey! It’s Henry Hey!

The keyboardist — who has toured and recorded with David Bowie, George Michael and Rod Stewart, and served as musical director for Kennedy Center extravaganzas — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 9, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $15 cover).

Hey will be joined by Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, Dave Richards and Jason Tiemann. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Henry Hey

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After 2 weeks, bagels are still sitting on High Gate Road.

Chris Grimm reports on the scene, off Maple Avenue South: “The 2 piles have been joined by a smaller, breakaway third pile, to the left, while a few to the far left seem to be trying to flee. Behind the larger pile to the right seem to be a large number of casualties.”

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

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A full moon brings out a full complement of “06880” photographers.

This one was captured by Rick Leonard, on Wright Street. Naturally, it’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Rick Leonard)

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And finally … in honor of Mark and Kim Mathias, Rick and Totney Benson, Bill Kutik, and anyone else who has traveled the world (see stories above):

(From Connecticut to New Zealand, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here, to continue helping us do all that we do. Thank you!) 

 

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Roundup: Lyman Logo, Saugatuck Church Card, Joan Walsh Anglund …

Posted on December 21, 2022 | 1 comment

Westport’s drive to raise $250,000 for our new sister city in Lyman, Ukraine now has a logo.

Miggs Burroughs — the native Westporter/graphic artist/creator of lenticular exhibits at the downtown and train station pedestrian tunnels/designer of the Westport town flag/Westport Artists’ Collective co-founder — has once again donated his talents for a great cause.

His design — in Ukraine’s famous blue and yellow colors — shows Lyman nestled under the bridge being built by both Westport and Marigny-le-Louzon, the French town we adopted after World War II, and helped rebuild. They’re joining us now, to aid another devastated place.

Our goal is to raise $250,000 —  by Christmas. That would provide materials to build 150 homes, with a generator for every one, plus a water filtration system for the Donetsk region town. Thanks to our partner on the ground, it can all be delivered within 3 days.

As of last night — 2 days after announcing our drive — we had over $85,000. Just $165,000 left to raise!

To help, click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.) You can also donate directly, via Stripe (click here). 

Ukraine Aid International is a non-profit organization. It was co-founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer. Click here for more information on our sister city, Lyman.

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Tonight, Saugatuck Congregational Church unveils a big gift for the community.

That’s not an exaggeration. It’s a giant video Christmas card.

From 5 to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday), Craig Patton and Mark Mathias — creators of the “card,” and leaders of the church’s audio-visual team — will be on the Great Lawn on the Post Road near Myrtle Avenue, projecting a video greeting on the front of the building. It will be augmented by an audio broadcast on 89.3 FM.

Look for the enormous holiday card on the front of the Saugatuck Church as you drive by. Better yet, stop and share some holiday cheer with Craig and Mark.

If the weather allows, the greeting card will be presented again tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday, also from 5 to 8 p.m.

Happy holidays!

Sneak peek at the Saugatuck Church holiday card.

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Back in the day, Joan Walsh Anglund was a world-popular illustrator.

And a Westport resident.

In the 1960s and ’70s, nearly every child had at least one of her books, prints or dolls. Her characters all bore big heads and eyes, with no mouth.

The other day, Elizabeth DeVoll sent a few images from Anglund’s Christmas books.

For generations of Westporters, they — and their author — evoke fond memories. For younger parents and kids: Seek them out. They’re timeless.

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Last week, students in Alyssa Carroll’s 2nd grade Coleytown Elementary School class made over 50 bagged lunches for Homes with Hope.

They proudly learned what it means to give back to their community. What a great idea for other classes throughout Westport to follow!

Coleytown Elementary School students, with lunches they made for Homes with Hope.

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Terry, Eamon and Seamus Brannigan are part of a band that plays often at Littlel Barn. Their next gig is Friday (December 23), at 8:30 p.m.

They’re great. They play plenty of classic (and other) rock.

They’ve got a typical band name: Hibachi Dinner.

But they go by another name too — one that’s spectacularly clever, given that the 3 brothers are now, or once were, on the Staples wrestling team.

Just call them The Sing-lets.

Hibachi Dinner (aka The Sing-lets) from left: Seamus Brannigan, Maddy Cerito, Terry Brannigan, Eamon Brannigan, Dylan Curran. (Photo/Terry Brannigan)

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On Sunday, Westport Troop 100 held an Eagle Court of Honor at VFW Post 399. They presented Eagle Scout awards, and celebrated the outstanding achievement of 4 Scouts:

  • 2021 Staples High School graduate PJ Shaum, who coordinated a musical instruments drive for Bridgeport Schools’ Music program.
  • Purdue Polytechnic University freshman Maxim Zotkin Williams, who created an outdoor picnic area for St. Mary’s Holy Assumption Church in Stamford.
  • Staples High School senior and fencing team captain Gleb Syomichev, who helped clean and repaint the parking lot at VFW Post 399.
  • Staples High senior and fencing team member Jack Martens, who helped to clean up and paint the kitchen at VFW Post 399.

Troop 100 has a 54-year history in Westport — and, now, 90 Eagle Scouts. Congratulations to all!

Troop 100 Eagle Scouts, clockwise from top left: PJ Shaum, Maxim Zotkin Williams, Jack Martens, Gleb Syomichev,

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Staples High School Class of 2013 graduate Shira Helena Gitlin is directing a new production of “Indecent,” by Massachusetts’ Concord Players.

Shira was involved with another Players group — the Staples ones — on the tech side, in high school. They also sang with the Orphenians. Shira is now building a career as a theater maker, in the Boston area.

Click here for a video about “Indecent.” They talk about its relevance today, beginning at 5:01.

Shira Helena Gitlin

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From sneakers to New Year’s resolutions to a backstage look at the Candlelight Concert, Staples’ December “On the Wreckord” TV broadcast has it all.

Click below to watch the well-produced, clever and wide-ranging high school show:

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There’s plenty of natural beauty — and some nice man-made stuff too — in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

It’s a view from the footbridge over Deadman Brook, on the north side of Winslow Park.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … winter arrives today at 4:48 p.m.

Only 89 days until spring!

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Posted in Arts, Children, Entertainment, religion, Restaurants, Staples HS

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Give The Gift Of Giving

Posted on December 5, 2022 | 13 comments

‘Tis the season to be jolly.

And to give.

This year — which despite economic headwinds, was a good one for many Westporters — as we buy presents for loved ones, friends, and people whose good graces we need to keep, we should also think about helping others.

Give what you can.

(Of course, helping them can also ease our own tax burdens a few months from now.)

But who to give to?

Far be it for “06880” to say. So here is a list — off the top of my head — of some worthy local organizations. Each one has a clickable link 🙂

I know I’ve missed some. Rather than bite my head off (very un-Christmas-y), please mention them in the “Comments” section. I’ll add them to this list.

And please: Keep your suggestions local (southern Fairfield County). There are way too many very worthy national and international groups to include. Thank you!

Animals

Christine’s Critters: Rehabilitation of big birds
Connecticut Humane Society: Westport branch
Save Our Strays: Animal rescue
PAWS: No-kill animal shelter
Rising Starr Horse Rescue: Gives at-risk horses a second chance at life
TAILS: Spaying and neutering
Westport Animal Shelter Advocates: Care, shelter and adoption of homeless dogs
Wildlife in Crisis: Preservation and emergency help

Arts and history

Artists Collective of Westport: Creativity, education, shows, forums and more
Beechwood Arts and Innovation: Exhibits, salons, talks, food — wow!
Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County: Supporting cultural organizations, artists and creative businesses
Levitt Pavilion: More than 50 nights of free entertainment
MoCA Westport: Exhibitions, concerts, education and more
Music Theatre of Connecticut: Musical theater education for youngsters ages 4 through high school
Remarkable Theater: Providing entertainment and employment for people with disabilities
Westport Country Playhouse: 92-year-old cultural institution
Westport Museum for History & Culture: Exhibits and education
Westport Public Art Collections: Bringing art to schools and public spaces

Community aid

Al’s Angels: Help for children and families battling diseases and hardships
Bridgeport Rescue Mission: Fighting poverty, offering help
Center for Family Justice: Provides services to fight domestic, child and sexual abuse
Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants: Service and advocacy for immigrants, refugees and survivors of human trafficking and torture
Integrated Immigrant & Refugee Services: Resettlement agency
Lifebridge Community Services: Bridgeport youth development behavioral health and family resources organization
Norwalk Hour: Aid to families in need
United Way of Coastal Fairfield County: Access to food, shelter, transportation and childcare
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: Helping veterans, servicemembers and their families
Westport Department of Human Services “We Care”: Many options, including financial help with school supplies and heating costs
Westport PAL: They do it all: college scholarships, youth sports programs, fireworks, ice rink, etc., etc., etc.
Westport Weston Family YMCA: Help in many ways

Community-building

06880: This blog — now a non-profit — sponsors community-wide events. Projects include the Holiday Stroll, an educational seminar at the library, and a soon-to-be announced Westport/Marigny/Ukraine school project. “06880” also publishes this daily blog, to help create community.

Disabilities

Catch a Lift: Westport supports veterans through fitness programs
Circle of Friends: Teens work with children with disabilities
CLASP: Group homes and opportunities
Club 203: Provides fun, engaging activities for adults with disabilities
MyTEAM Triumph:  Road race support for children, adults and veterans
STAR Lighting the Way: Support for all ages
Sweet P Bakery: Provides jobs for adults with learning disabilities; supplies The Porch at Christie’s with delicious baked goods

Education and youth

A Better Chance of Westport: Education and support for outstanding minority boys
Achievement First: Schools provide Bridgeport families of color with a high- quality education at no cost
Adam J. Lewis Academy: High-quality experience for Bridgeport youngsters
Carver Foundation: K-12 pre- and after-school programs in Norwalk
Child Advocates of SW Connecticut: Providing advocates for abused children
Child & Family Guidance Center: Counseling and support for youth and families
Kids in Crisis: 24-hour support, including emergency housing and crisis counseling
Kidz Give Back: Children helping children
Neighborhood Studios: Arts education for Bridgeport youngsters
Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities: Helping fulfill potential; support for parents too
Staples Tuition Grants: Need-based scholarships for Staples High School students and alumni
The Susan Fund: Scholarships for young people affected by cancer

Environment

Aspetuck Land Trust: Preserving open space; maintaining 45 preserves
Connecticut Audubon Society: Protecting birds, other wildlife, and their habitats through conservation, education and advocacy
Earthplace: Education, wildlife exhibits, and a 62-acre sanctuary
Friends of Sherwood Island: Preserving, maintaining and enhancing our state park
Future Frogmen: Teaching students to protect the oceans
Norwalk River Valley Trail: Maintaining 30 miles of open space 
Save the Sound: Protecting Long Island Sound
Sustainable Westport: Helping our town become Net Zero by 2050
Wakeman Town Farm: Sustainability center, with plenty of programs
Westport Farmers’ Market: Food, education, programs and more

Food and shelter

Filling in the Blanks: Providing weekend meals for children in need
Food Rescue: Helping volunteers pick up and deliver excess food
Homes with Hope: Supportive housing, food pantry, food distribution and more
Open Doors Shelter: Aiding Norwalkers in need
Person-to-Person: Food, rent help, clothing and more

Grant-giving and foundations

100 Women Who  Care of Fairfield County: Raising funds to give them away!
Fairfield County Foundation: Philanthropy to strengthen communities
Near and Far Aid: Fighting poverty in Fairfield County
Newman’s Own: Okay, they’re global — but they’re headquartered in Westport!
Westport Rotary: Noontime chapter meeting of Rotary International
Westport Sunrise Rotary: 7:30 a.m. chapter meeting of Rotary International
Westport Woman’s Club: Raising funds for charitable, educational, cultural and public health services
Westport Young Woman’s League: Building community through volunteerism and social activities

Health and Safety

Breast Cancer Emergency Aid Foundation: Funds for non-medical expenses
Domestic Violence Crisis Center: Help for victims and families
Fairfield County House: End-of -life facility, providing hospice and palliative care in a home-like setting 
Mission: Helping survivors create lives after cancer
Pink Aid: Financial aid and services to woman and families facing breast cancer
Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service: Providing staffing, supplies and apparatus to keep the town safe

LGBTQ+

Triangle Community Center: Providing programs and resources for the LGBTQ+ community
Westport Pride: Our town’s own LGBTQ+ organization — sponsors of the June festival, and much more


Literacy

Mercy Learning Center: Life skills training for low-income women
Read to Grow: Promoting children’s literacy from birth, supporting parents as babies’ first teachers
Westport Book Sales: Providing employment for people with disabilities — and offering books, while providing funds for the Westport Library
Westport Library: They do it all!

Mental health and addiction 

Laurel House: Mental health and recovery resources
Positive Directions: Treatment and prevention for addictive behaviors

Seniors

Jewish Senior Services: Skilled nursing and other care
Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities: Support for the Senior Center (below)
Westport Center for Senior Activities: Senior Center provides programs, meals and more

Women and girls

AWARE: “Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education”
Dress for Success Mid-Fairfield County: Empowering women by providing professional clothes and other support
LiveGirl: Leadership development and mentoring for females, grades 5 through college
Malta House: Shelter and programs for young pregnant women and their babies

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Posted in Arts, Children, Education, Environment, Library, Organizations, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Thanksgiving 2022, I-95 Exit 17 …

Posted on November 25, 2022 | 1 comment

Scenes from yesterday’s Thanksgiving, all around town:

Homes with Hope provided two festive meals — lunch and dinner — for clients of their emergency homeless shelters and community kitchen yesterday, at the Gillespie Center.

The Thanksgiving feast was created by Aux Delices, and donated by the Smith family.

Homes with Hope director Helen McAlinden was awed by the generosity of Westporters. In addition to the Smith, residents stopped by all day with bags of groceries, and homemade pies and treats.

Diners ate off fancy dishes, with silverware — “as it should be,” Helen says.

Among the volunteers: 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Homes with Hope director Helen McAlinden (3rd and 4th from left), with staff members before yesterday’s Gillespie Center Thanksgiving.

At the annual Turkey Trot, the Levys were one of many families cheering the hundreds of runners on their route through Greens Farms (and to a well-deserved Thanksgiving dinner).

(Photo/Bob Levy)

On High Point Road, residents revived the tradition of a holiday walk. That’s another way to work up an appetite:

Jennifer Herbert-Coste’s dog Louis spotted a raccoon stuck beneath a flooded street drain on the corner of Compo Beach and Quentin Roads. Westport Animal Control and the Westport Fire Department took time out of their holiday to lift the 75-pound grill, and help the critter live another day.

We assume he was quite thankful.

(Photo/Jennifer Herbert-Coste)

Then, after a big meal, these kids headed to the Compo Beach playground …

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

… while others romped on the sand, for some late-afternoon fun.

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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At least they waited until the end of the holiday:

The I-95 southbound Exit 17 on ramp will be closed at night on Monday and (if necessary) Tuesday (November 28 and 29). The Exit 17 off-ramp from I-95 southbound will be closed Wednesday and *if necessary) Thursday (November 30 and December 1). Workers will install conduits for the Incident Management System.

For more information, click here.

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Several readers have noted the enormous number of gulls at Sherwood Mill Pond this year.

Matt Murray provided proof, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of the animal (above) freed by our excellent Animal Control and Fire Department employees:

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(Happy Black Friday! If you’re looking for another way to spend money, please consider a donation to “06880.” Just click here — and thank you.)

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Posted in Saugatuck, Transportation, Westport life

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Roundup: Election Day, Thanksgiving, Kristallnacht …

Posted on November 8, 2022 | 2 comments

Pigs can’t vote.

But people can.

And everyone should. It’s the central tenet of democracy. Millions of people have marched, sacrificed, even given their lives for this country to ensure that right.

Billions of people around the world wish they had what we have.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — reminds “06880” readers, wherever in America they are, that today is Election Day.

If you live in Westport, click here for a sample ballot. (Thanks, Jeff Looby!)

If you live in Connecticut, click here to find your polling place. Then go there!

NOTE: Voters at Coleytown Middle School polling place should take the first entrance on North Avenue (the one right after Coleytown Elementary School), rather than the one at the top of the slight hill.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

Turnout was light this morning. This was the scene at the Westport Library polling station.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the election: It’s a bit late. And most voters have probably made up their minds.

But yesterday, Sustainable Westport said: “This year, in lieu of environmental debates (issues with scheduling), we provided candidates with questions on environmental issues and sustainability. They submitted answers at the end of last week.”

For candidates for State House District 143, click here. Candidates for District 136 did not respond. For candidates for State Senate District 26, click here.

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Saugatuck Congregational Church will not host their traditional community Thanksgiving feast this year.

However, Westport’s Department of Human Services will once again join with the Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope to provide food gift cards and meals to those in need.

Those organizations are working with Coleytown Elementary School, Coleytown Middle School and Temple Israel to continue their traditions of offering homemade cards, gifts and pies.

Human Services director Elaine Daignault adds, “We are grateful to the Westport Woman’s Club. They provide grocery gift cards to distribute to food-insecure residents, and assist with the cost of specially catered meals from the Sherwood Diner for Westporters who receive home-delivered meals through the Senior Center.

For more information, contact Human Services by phone (203-341-1050) or email (humansrv@westportct.gov). “We are here to help!” Daignault says.

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With antisemitism on the rise in the nation, The Conservative Synagogue invites all Westporters to commemorate Kristallnacht — the Nazis’ “Night of Broken Glass” — this Saturday (November 12, 5:30 p.m., 30 Hillspoint Road).

The service includes Havdallah and hearing eyewitness testimony from Kristallnacht survivor Fred Behrend.

Click here to register.

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Saugatuck Rowing Club’s junior athletes won several medals at last month’s season-ending Head of the Schuylkill Regatta in Pennsylvania.

But they’re winners off the water too. The young rowers (and their parents) spent last weekend cleaning up the banks of the Saugatuck River, right by their home boathouse.

Thirty participants amassed over 300 pounds of trash. That’s 10 pounds of garbage per person.

Keep Norwalk Beautiful provided supplies. Jen and Adam Goldberg of Pop-Up Bagels donated nearly as many bagels as there were pounds of trash.

Saugatuck Rowing Club plans an encore this spring.

A small bit of the large amount of trash collected by Saugatuck Rowing Club volunteers.

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Speaking of Saugatuck: Slice of Saugatuck delivers. The September event raised $5,000 for Homes with Hope.

The 10th annual festival brought over 2,000 people to  experience, sample and taste their way through the neighborhood. To date, donations from the Slice to Homes with Hope, for use in their Gillespie Center Food Pantry, total over $40,000.

“The Festival is all about food — food for those who can afford it, and now food for those who can’t,” says Matthew Mandell, executive director of the Slice’s sponsor, the Westport Weston Chamber. “We are so pleased we have been able to make these donations each year to help ease food insecurity. It’s a win-win.”

From left: Bob O’Mahoney and Harry Brady Viva Zapata owners; Bill Rizzuto owner of Rizzuto’s; Helen McAlinden director of Homes with Hope; Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director; Robert Curwen, Chamber member.

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In 2010, former Red Sox pitcher John Trautwein lost his son Will to suicide. There was no sign or warning.

Trautwein and his family formed the “Will to Live Foundation.” The goal is to encourage teenagers and young adults to “talk about it,” and serve as “life teammates” for each other.

On November 17 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall), Trautwein will speak about this important topic. The event is sponsored by Westport Youth Services, the Police Athletic League, and the Teen Awareness Group.

Trautwein spoke to high school athletes in August, at the FCIAC leadership conference. His message was strong, and well received.

This program is aimed at parents, middle and high school students, coaches, and anyone who works with young people. Additional resources and counseling support will be available through Kids in Crisis and Positive Directions during and after the event.

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Why is a college transcript so crucial?

This Thursday (November 10, 7 p.m., online), Amy Chatterjee — senior college counselor from Collegewise, — discusses what a transcript actually is, how it can “show a love of learning through courses,” and why it’s the most important part of the college application.

Click here to register.

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Usually, it’s music teachers who watch their students perform on stage.

On November 20 (MoCA Westport, 4 p.m.), faculty members of the Westport School of Music will be on stage for a special concert. “Autumn Colors” will celebrate nature’s splendor, through piano, strings, flute, guitar and voice.

Highlights include “Autumn in New York,” “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” from “Charlie Brown,” and “Autumn” from “The Four Season of Buenos Aires.”

After the concert, guests can greet the musicians, and enjoy refreshments and drinks at the MoCA Bar.

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This week at Jazz at the Post: Spain’s “finest and most celebrated jazz pianist,”  Abé Rabade. Very popular throughout Europe, he’ll perform at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 this Thursday.

Rabade’s music blends classic Catalonian and Galician styles, along with the soulful and swinging “great jazz tradition.”

Joining in are Rale Micic (guitar), “Jazz Rabbi” Greg Wall (saxophone), David Richards (bass0 and Tim Horner (drums).

There are shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., with dinner starting at 7. Tickets are just $15. Email Jazzatthepost@gmail.como for reservations.

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Longtime Westporter Joan Kahn died Saturday, in Norwalk Hospital. She would have been 98 next month.

Joan’s family described her as “feisty, independent, determined, brilliant and caring.:

A “founding mother” of modern Westport, she and her husband Ed moved to Westport in 1953 from New York City. They lived first on Charcoal Hill, then built a home on Coach Lane.

Joan’s family called her “a sounding board and encourager of husband Ed throughout his town leadership as he chaired the Representative Town Meeting, spearheaded efforts to save Cockenoe Island, positioned Westport as the first town meeting to vote against the war in Viet Nam, and was a part of the committee that bought Longshore.”

With a group of mothers, Joan started the Westport Cooperative Nursery School (now Westport Nursery School).

Joan was valedictorian of her high school class at Calhoun High School in
New York, graduated from Smith College, and earned her social work degree from Columbia University in 1952.

She was an early “career mother,” as a social worker at Norwalk Hospital, then Bridgeport Hospital, and finally in the Norwalk school system, from which she retired.

She was an avid follower of politics, curious world traveler, and consummate reader. She was also an active, loving, mother of 3 children. all of whom attended Westport schools: Karen, Shoshi
and Dan.

She also leaves 6 grandchildren — Ron, Edwina, Maya, Eli, Max  and Emma =- and 4 great-grandchildren.

Joan Kahn

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Wakeman Town Farm volunteer Thomas Schmidt stopped feeding breakfast to the animals just long enough to snap today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Thomas Schmidt)

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And finally … Alice Cooper wanted to be elected.

If you want your candidate to be elected too … head to the polls! They’re open until 8 p.m. tonight.

(Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Greens, independents, Whigs, Know-Nothings, and everyone else: Vote with your wallets. Please click here to support “06880.”)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Obituaries, religion

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