Tag Archives: Jeffrey Wieser

Roundup: Books, Art, Lynsey Addario, Craig Melvin …

Posted on December 3, 2025 | 11 comments

Congratulations to Jeffrey Wieser and Lauren Karpf. They were re-elected as moderator and deputy moderator, respectively, at last night’s Representative Town Meeting (RTM) session. There was one “no” vote against Weiser, from Jennifer Johnson.

It was the first meeting of the new 36-member legislative body, following last month’s election.

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser

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Like most Westporters, Lawrence Weisman was inundated with “Giving Tuesday” requests yesterday.

Any organization we’ve ever donated to or even contacted for any reason — and many we didn’t, but who have bought lists from those we have — filled our email inboxes with heartfelt pleas.

(Where did “Giving Tuesday” come from? It began in 2012, as a project of New York’s 92nd Street Y, to counter the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It’s now become a behemoth of its own.)

Larry asks his “fellow givers”: “Help me find the best way to navigate the storm of requests by the multitude of worthy non-profits that find their way into my mailbox, my screen and my phone – not to mention the fraudsters who have my phone number.

“How am I to triage these unending requests to feed my neighbors, save their pets and contribute to their medical expenses? If I don’t fund the police will I be contributing to a rise in crime?

“Do I choose recipients based in part on the gifts I am offered? I already have a sufficient supply of address labels, note pads and calendars of all sizes.

“Would it be better if I were to give a larger amount to fewer charities or to spread the wealth by giving a lesser amount to a greater number? Perhaps I might adopt a policy of supporting only local charities; at least that’s a plausible rationale for making a choice.

“Seriously, help me out here. How do you decide which efforts to support and which to ignore?”

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One more sign that winter is here (if unofficially): The Westport PAL ice skating rink at Longshore is open.

Click here for information on public sessions, private rentals, and everything else at this great town-wide facility.

Skating by the Sound.

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NPR’s “Fresh Air” has plenty of devoted Westport listeners.

They got a special treat yesterday, when Lynsey Addario was interviewed.

The 1991 Staples High School graduate/Pulitzer Prize winner and MacArthur fellow talked about her new documentary, “Love+War”; her career; her family, and much more.

Click here to listen to the long, fascinating interview, or to read the transcript. (Hat tip: Derek Fuchs)

Lynsey Addario

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The Westport Library’s fall book sale is almost here.

It features thousands of gently used books in more than 50 categories: infants to teens; literature and classics; fiction, mystery, scifi and fantasy; graphic novels and manga; art, photography, history, math, science, psychology, religion, biography, business, cooking, gardening, performing arts, travel, foreign language, education, reference, and more, including Noteworthy, especially antiquarian books.

Plus vintage vinyl records, DVDs, and CDs.

Sale hours are:

Friday, December 5: 12 to 6 p.m. (early access ticket, 8:45 a.m. to noon; click here)
Saturday, December 6: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, December 7: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (almost everything half-price)
Monday, December 8: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (fill the Library logo bag for $10 per bag, your own same-sized bag for $8, or buy individual books at half-price)

For more information, click here.

A small part of the large Westport Library book sale.

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Speaking of books: The Westport Book Shop welcomes artists from Club203 — the town’s social club for adults with disabilities — as this month’s guest exhibitors.

This exhibit is a partnership with MoCA Gives Back. The MoCA\CT initiative provides creative opportunities for under-resourced populations.

The exhibition coincides with Westport Book Shop’s 5th anniversary. Since 2020, the Jesup Road store has provided employment for adults with disabilities and supported the Westport Library.

Club203 artists’ work “reflects the values of inclusion, opportunity and community engagement that have guided the organization since its founding.”

The artists on display have been led by Agata Tria, an artist and teacher at MoCA. She works closely with Club203 members during monthly events and through summer art classes.

A reception for the Club203 artists is set for December 19 (6 p.m.).

Agata Tria, with Club203 members’ work at the Westport Book Shop.

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Speaking of MoCA: Calling all student artists!

MoCA\CT is soliciting works for their 11th annual high school exhibition, “The Sound of Us: Youth Culture Now.”

This year’s theme coincides with the Westport Public Art Collections’ exhibition, “Art, Jazz + the Blues.”

The exhibition explores the effects of contemporary music on today’s youth culture. Music is a catalyst for conversation, inspiring political awareness and mobilizing youth-led movements. It influences how young people speak, what they stand for, and how they connect with one another.

Students will be prompted to select a song from 2020 to today, and create a work of art that shows its effects on youth culture through fashion, social interactions, speech, education, political alertness and activism, or life in general.

The deadline is January 30. Click here for the application, and more information.

MoCA\CT’s 10th high school show.

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Speaking of young people: They’re ready to help older residents with snow shoveling (when it’s needed), through the “We Do Walkways” program.

Westport’s Department of Human Services provides the names of middle and high school youngsters to seniors, in their neighborhood. Call 203-341-1050, or email edaignault@westportct.gov.

That’s the contact info too for students who want to sign up.

DHS recommends that seniors pay the shovelers $10 to $15 an hour. The service is not free — but it’s great!

Teens are ready to help seniors.

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Speaking still of youths: Want to write for young readers, but don’t know how?

Tomorrow (Thursday, 6:30 p.m.. 25 Sylvan Road South; free), the Westport Writers’ Workshop hosts “Paths to Publishing with Kid lit Authors Lori Kase and Diana Sussman.

Author Christine Pakkala will moderate a conversation with the writers of the YA novel “The Accident,” and the middle grade mystery “The Neighbors’ Secret.”

They’ll explore their journeys to publication, writing across genres and more. A Q-and-A session follows. For more information, click here.

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Westport Moms’ 9th annual holiday shopping event returns this Friday (December 5, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Birchwood Country Club). Admission is free.

Over 20 vendors will sell home decor, jewelry, athleisure, sports apparel, accessories, jackets, candles and resort wear (with on-site monogramming).

There’s a donation drive too. Shoppers are asked to bring gently used warm coats and clothing items to donate .

But that’s not all. Westport Moms is also sponsoring their 5th annual toy drive. This year’s recipient is the K-8 Wilbur Cross School in Bridgeport.

Just click here for the wish list. All items will be shipped directly to the school.

The need is great. But — Westport Moms say — “our town always comes through!”

Questions? Email info@westportmoms.com.

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Speaking of Westport Moms: They report that Westport dad (and “Today” show co-anchor Craig Melvin has a new side gig.

He just launched a candle company: “Melvin Made.”

The Moms say: “What began as a garage hobby quickly became a surprisingly therapeutic escape. After trying our hand at pouring one ourselves, we can confirm it’s as calming (and addictive) as it looks. …

“Each @melvinmadeco candle is handcrafted from coconut oil with clean, phthalate-free fragrance and inspired by the people, stories and moments that shaped Craig’s life.

“And proceeds help support families affected by cancer, raising awareness and funds for cancer charities, including organizations that stood alongside his own family and continue helping others every day.”

Click here to learn more, and to order Craig’s candles.

Craig Melvin, with his candles. (Photo courtesy of Westport Moms)

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Breast cancer is no laughing matter.

But Pink Aid — the great non-profit that aids patients and their families — and Chabad of Westport are teaming up for their 3rd annual “Stand Up for Pink Aid” comedy event.

The December 10 event is an evening of “heart and humor.” The all-star lineup includes Jacob Brody — an inspiring 11-year-old cancer survivor from Westport — and Nick Scopoletti, whose comedy is shaped by losing his mom to breast cancer at age 6.

Pink Aid promises, “It will be meaningful, memorable, and seriously funny.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Hey: It’s December!

Time to get rid of the pumpkins (and assorted autumnal stuff). Christmas trees (or menorahs) are coming.

Pam Barkentin spotted this “Westport … Naturally” scene yesterday, at the transfer station:

(Photo/Pam Barkentin)

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And finally … in honor of Craig Melvin’s newest project (story above):

(Today’s Roundup is chock-full of news, events, ideas and more. But so is every day’s! If you enjoy these features — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Library, Longshore

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“Night On The River” Is For The Birds

Posted on May 20, 2017 | 2 comments

After 21 years, nearly everyone in town has a birdhouse.

For more than 2 decades, residents enjoyed a Birdhouse Auction. The idea was creative, fun — and totally Westport.

Local artists created amazing, unique and very cool birdhouses. They were showcased in Main Street store windows, kicked off by a springtime “stroll.” Then — as the highlight of a fun party — people bid to buy them.

All funds went to Project Return, the North Compo Road group home for girls and young women undergoing difficult times.

This special lenticular birdhouse was created by Miggs Burroughs.

But according to Jeff Wieser — CEO of Homes With Hope, the Westport housing organization that oversees Project Return — the effective shelf life of a fundraiser for most non-profits is 7 to 10 years.

The Birdhouse Auction took a tremendous amount of time and effort, by a dedicated core of volunteers. They asked a lot of very generous and talented and local artists.

And — as noted above — you can fit only so many birdhouses in your back yard.

Last year marked the final Birdhouse Auction. But Project Return needs as much support as ever.

Fortunately, a group of volunteers has created a new fundraising event. It’s a summer party with cocktails, dinner and dancing at the Saugatuck Rowing Club. Called “Night on the River,” it’s set for Saturday, June 3.

Vineyard Vines’ Main Street window — with white outfits specially for the “Summer Nights” gala.

Wieser is particularly pleased that a “great group of younger people” has taken over the planning.

“The next generation is getting involved in Westport volunteerism,” he says. “They’ve got a new canvas of creativity.”

But they’re keeping some of that old Main Street stroll flavor.

Because the dress code for “Night on the River” is “strictly summer white,” organizers are asking downtown merchants — most of whom own clothing stores — to feature white clothes in their windows.

In addition, Amis restaurant created a special “Summer Nights” cocktail. It drew raves at its recent debut.

“Hopefully this is the start of a whole new tradition,” Wieser says.

Hopefully too the birds won’t notice there are no new feeders this year.

(Click here for more information on — and tickets to — “Night on the River.”)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Organizations, People, Restaurants

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Gillespie Center: 25 Years Of Shelter From The Homeless Storm

Posted on April 23, 2014 | 7 comments

For a place as contentious as Westport — half the town opposed building the playground at Compo, and half thought building a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island was just ducky — you’d think putting a homeless shelter in the heart of downtown would ignite World War III.

But you would be wrong.

The Gillespie Center is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary this Friday (April 25, 3 p.m., in the courtyard at 45 Jesup Road). Last week, a few of the founding visionaries reminisced.

Gillespie Center - anniversary

What came through loud and clear was this: Moving the shelter from the old Vigilant Firehouse on Wilton Road to a decrepit maintenance shed behind what was then the Fine Arts Theater (now Restoration Hardware) was never an issue.

Not in 1989. Not in the intervening years. And certainly not today. Over a quarter century, the Gillespie Center — the name honors Jim Gillespie, the 1st president of Homes with Hope (then called the Interfaith Housing Association) — has provided housing, meals and hope to thousands of men and women.

And many more Westporters than that have contributed food, setup and cleanup help, equipment and funds to keep that hope alive.

Gathering at the center last week were Marty Hauhuth, 1st selectman from 1985-89; Pete Powell, Homes With Hope president from 1988-2010; Dolores Bacharach, HWH’s 1st vice president and a leader in the establishment of the community kitchen, and current HWH president Jeff Wieser.

Dolores Bacharach and Pete Powell reminisce about the early years of the Gillespie Center.

Dolores Bacharach and Pete Powell reminisce about the early years of the Gillespie Center.

Pete recalled the forces that led to the opening of the 1st homeless shelter in December 1984, at the former firehouse (located in the parking lot between Bartaco and National Hall). That event was debated. But the moral leadership of Reverend Ted Hoskins, Rabbi Bob Orkand and businessman James Bacharach (Dolores’ husband), plus the town support of 1st selectman Bill Seiden, human services director Barbara Butler and David Kennedy, tamped much of the controversy.

A few years later, as Arthur Tauck was redeveloping National Hall into an inn, the move to Jesup Road — catty-corner from the police station — made sense.

Many hands helped make the new 15-bed home possible. (Who knew the toilets were rescued from a home that Phil Donohue was razing?) A 5-bed facility for women — Hoskins Place — was build next to the men’s shelter, when the transit district office moved.

Over the years, the Gillespie Center’s conversion from a beat-up old building to a well-maintained shelter has enhanced the look of the entire area.

The Gillespie Center today.

The Gillespie Center today.

The frontage on Jesup Road near Matsu Sushi, the gardens maintained for years by Jed Ringel and repointing of the brickwork by Brooks Sumberg are visible to all.

Less visible is what goes on inside. But the men and women who seek shelter there — and others who use the very active food pantry — know and appreciate the hard work and tremendous care lavished on the Gillespie Center by many in town over the past 25 years.

Jeff Wieser quotes a friend from Virginia. After touring Homes With Hope’s 10 properties in Westport — the organization supports a lot more than the Gillespie Center — and winding up downtown, he said: “You must be the only town in America with a homeless shelter 2 doors from Tiffany!”

The Gillespie Center  has never lacked for volunteers. (Or — proving that Westport is no different from the real world — clients).

Westporters of all ages volunteer at the Gillespie Center.

Westporters of all ages volunteer at the Gillespie Center.

One of those volunteers was Jim Marpe. Today he’s the latest in a long line of 1st selectmen to support the Gillespie Center. Twenty years ago, he helped stock the pantry, serve meals and clean up.

That’s the kind of support the Gillespie Center has enjoyed for 25 years. If you’re looking for controversy — or a story about an affluent suburb that shunned its homeless — stay away from 45 Jesup Road. You won’t find it there.

All you’ll see are beds, meals, and Westport’s support for our fellow humans, down on their luck.

(For more information on the Gillespie Center and Homes With Hope, click here.)

 

 

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Posted in Downtown, Looking back, Organizations, People

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Jeff Wieser Heads Homes With Hope

Posted on February 12, 2010 | 2 comments

After his international banking career took him to Australia and Hong Kong, in 1985 Jeff Wieser was posted to New York.  He lived in Westport, but did not feel part of either this town or the city.

“My community was the train,” he says ruefully.

Jeff Wieser

Hoping to engage more with his hometown, he joined Christ & Holy Trinity Church‘s outreach program.  That’s how he met Rev. Peter Powell, the president and CEO of Homes With Hope (formerly the Interfaith Housing Association) — the long-running organization that helps homeless Westporters lead independent, self-sufficient lives.

Jeff joined the board, but soon was transferred to Canada.  When he returned — eagerly — to Westport in 1995, he quickly re-involved himself with IHA.

He served as chairman from 1998 to 2002 — a “wonderful experience” — and remained on the board thereafter.  A year ago, when Rev. Powell announced his retirement, Jeff helped search for a successor.

Some excellent candidates applied, but when — for various reasons — no one was hired, Jeff began thinking about applying himself.  The decision, he says, was “spiritual and exciting.  It was almost like it was meant to happen.”

The 57-year-old felt energized by “the chance to do something full time that I’ve been passionate about for years.”  Homes With Hope is, he says, “a born and bred Westport organization.  It’s one of the very few in the country in an affluent suburb.”

Homes With Hope represents “the incredibly generosity of Westporters who have carried it for so many years,” he says.  Only 10 percent of the budget — about $160,000 — is funded by the state, he notes.  The rest comes from individuals, businesses, foundations and the religious community.

When Jeff assumes his new duties as president and CEO next month, his main task will be “making sure the transition is smooth.  It’s been run for 22 years by a great guy.  My job will be to help it continue to thrive, and be as good a neighbor as we have been for 25 years.”

He faces 2 main challenges:  Providing services every day to 70 or so people who rely on them, and raising funds.

Happily, he says, “we have a great staff.  They’ve been there for quite a while, and they’re excellent.”

Jeff started this interview with a train anecdote, and he ends with one.

One day, riding to New York, he told a friend from Darien about his IHA work.

“You have homeless people in Westport?” the friend asked.

“Yes,” Jeff replied.  “And you do in Darien too.  The difference is, we take care of ours.”

Soon, Jeff Wieser will have an entire homeless organization to take care of.  He can’t wait to begin.

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