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Since 2004, CLASP Homes’ “Taste of Westport” has been one of the most popular — and definitely tastiest — fundraiser around.
Except the last 2 years.
COVID knocked the event — an evening unlimited eating and drinking from an impressive list of local establishments, plus live music, and a silent auction — off the table.
Now it’s back: June 15, at the Inn at Longshore.
Tickets went on sale yesterday. They’re $100 now; $125 after June 1. Click here to purchase.
100% of the proceeds benefit CLASP’s residents and programs. The non-profit provides homes, opportunities and personalized services for people with autism and developmental disabilities.
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Alexander Tobey is just about to turn 8 years old. But during spring break, the Weston youngster wanted to help children in Ukraine.
This past Monday he made small Ukrainian flags fashioned from paper and toothpicks, to offer for donations. He soon expanded to shields, and renderings of the country’s shape.
On Tuesday he did a little Google research, and found that UNICEF could deliver the right assistance. On Wednesday morning he set up by the Parker Harding Starbucks — the same spot where he has stopped to help people collecting for other causes.
Alexander was amazed by people’s support, and willingness to leave their “gift” for the next donor. It took just 90 minutes to sell out his flag stock. With family donations and matches, Alexander will donate over $1,500 to UNICEF.
His parents Miriam Zalcman and Dave Tobey thank all who stopped by Alexander’s makeshift table. Their generosity made a lasting impression on him — and his work will make a difference to children thousands of miles away.
Alexander Tobey, collecting funds.
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Longtime Westport resident — and grandson of the founders of the Arrow Restaurant — Lester Frank Bottone Jr died last week in Hollywood, Florida, from complications of a severe stroke. He was 80 years old.
Lester was a true son of Saugatuck. His maternal grandparents, Giovanna and Frank Nistico, started the famous restaurant in the neighborhood. He worked as a youth.
Lester started his career in construction working alongside his father, Lester Bottone Sr. He built many homes in the community, including his own which he lived in until his death.
He later spent 34 years as a firefighter and first responder.
Lester loved racing of all sorts – including MotoGP, Formula 1 and bicycling, especially the Tour de France – and fast cars. He built a Shelby Cobra and several race cars, which he entered in hill-climb competitions on the East Coast.
He later started riding and rebuilding motorcycles, and began woodcarving. He stayed fit, loved working in his shop, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
Lester is survived by his wife of 56 years, Helena; daughter Lisa and her wife Carolyn; son Timothy and his wife Kim, and grandchildren, Emily, Alison and Katherine.
A gathering of remembrance and memorial service will be held next Saturday (April 23, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Harding Funeral Home).
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Westport Professional Firefighters Association, 515 Post Road East, Westport, CT 06880 or Save Old Saugatuck.
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Lifelong Westport resident Jennie McCarthy died Thursday, surrounded by her family. She was 94 years old. , beloved wife for over 68 years of Bob McCarthy, passed away on April 14, 2022 surrounded by her devoted family.
Jennie wore many hats in her rich life, including working with Embalmers Supply and the Westport Board of Education, and co-owning a deli with her sister Margaret.
Her most cherished role was creating a loving home for her family. In addition to Bob, her husband of 68 years, she is survived by her children Kevin (Beth) of Westport, Brian (Lena) of Fairfield, Kathy Sabitsky (Stan) of Milford, and Brennan McCarthy (Jenny) of Westport; grandchildren Justin, Sarah, Kaitlin, Josh, Matt, Nick, Zach, Jack and Charlie, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday (April 20 10 a.m., Church of the Assumption). Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
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Readers are sending tons of photos, and why not? This is one of the most beautiful times of the year here.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Park Lane, off South Compo. Elisabeth Keane and her neighbors never tire of this cherry tree.
(Photo/Elisabeth Keane)
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And finally … the torch has been passed to a new generation.
In the breathtaking video below, the singers all have famous fathers. The young man with the glasses is Plácido Domingo’s son. The middle one is Andrea Bocelli’s; on the right is Luciano Pavarotti’s son.
In a world filled with trouble, these “sons” shine brightly indeed. (Hat tip: Chuck Greenlee)
