Olivia Macior graduated from Staples High School last June. For weeks, she waited for things to get back to normal. Now — in the wake of George Floyd’s murder — she wants something different: a “new normal.”
It’s “a normal where people of color don’t have to fear the very people who should be protecting them; where education is equitable; where the criminal justice system is fair and lawful, and racial injustice does not plague every aspect of our lives.”
Inspired by the words of Angela Davis — “I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” — she is using her considerable art talents to help.
Her powerful work is up for auction on Facebook, through June 21. 100% of the winning bid will go to Black Lives Matter. Click here; then message her with your bid, via Facebook or at ohmacior@gmail.com.
Not everyone agreed with yesterday’s Black Lives Matter protest in downtown Westport. This graffiti was seen this morning at the boarded-up Tiffany store:
(Photo/Marcy Sansolo)
Westporters in the know know: No one beats the Y’s Men for hosting insightful, thought-provoking speakers. Thursday’s — their first via Zoom — was typical: informative, wide-ranging, both global and local.
Andrew Wilk — executive producer and director of “Live From Lincoln Center” — moderated a discussion on the future of the Westport Country Playhouse, and arts in general, in the wake of COVID-19.
Panelists included Playhouse artistic director Mark Lamos, general manager Michael Barker and actor Jake Robards.
The 30-minute chat ranged from the many issues impacting the Playhouse reopening — like safety, audience response and finances — to the importance of live performances. Click below to view:
As restaurants around Westport reopen, at least one will not.
An online auction is underway for many items at Tavern on Main: food service equipment, outdoor patio sets, decor and smallware.
It’s the end of the last sit-down, full-service restaurant on the main part of Main Street. It had a long run — and so did its predecessor, Chez Pierre.
No word yet on what — if anything — will replace it.
Nearly a dozen retailers are helping Home with Hope collect liquid dish detergent, all-purpose cleaners, soap, paper towels, sponges and sanitizing wipes. All donations go to families living in the organization’s supportive housing.
Hours are 10 a.m. 2 p.m. for all collections. There’s a box outside Restore Hyper Wellness (877 Post Road East) every day.
Other stores, with collection days:
- Thursdays: ASF Sporting Goods (1560 Post Road East); UPS (606 Post Road East)
- Fridays: West (117 Post Road East); Blow Dry (76 Church Lane)
- Saturdays: Verizon (379 Post Road East); Fleet Feet (10 Sconset Square)
- Sundays: The Granola Bar (275 Post Road East)
- Mondays: Greenwich Medical Spa (645 Post Road East.)
- Tuesdays: New England Hemp Farm (136 Main Street)
- Wednesdays: Green + Tonic (17 Jesup Road)
Questions? Email westport@restore.com
How’s this for a way to treat the frontline workers we have been hailing as heroes?
Trader Joe’s had a picnic table at the back of their parking lot. It was a nice place for employees — sorry, “crew members” — to eat, or take a break.
The other night, it was stolen. (Hat tip: David Meth)
Eighth graders missed their “moving up” ceremony this year. But — thanks to the Bedford and Coleytown Middle School PTAs — the 400-plus graduates are having their day in the sun.
Now, as you see these signs throughout Westport, you know who to thank.
Speaking of graduates, Margo Amgott writes:
“We’ve seen all the great signs celebrating Staples seniors. But there are others who are sheltering in Westport. We’ve long been weekenders, and after COVID now here we are!
“Could we do a shout-out to those transplanted seniors? The lovely people at Baker Graphics helped me make these for our daughter.” (The other sign — not shown — congratulates Molly for her acceptance at Trinity College.)
Great idea, Margo! Here’s too all Class of 202 grads! Wherever you went — and wherever you’re going — out town salutes you.
And speaking yet again of graduates …
St. Paul Christian School celebrated the end of the year with a drive-through closing celebration. Children received a diploma, yearbook and blessing from their teachers.
Tomorrow (Sunday, July 7, 5 p.m., Klein Memorial Auditorium, Bridgeport), a number of Westport congregations are participating in an “Interfaith Prayer for Racial Justice & Healing.” Masks are mandatory, and social distancing is enforced.
And finally … it’s hard to believe I haven’t posted this yet. I guess I was waiting for the exact right time.
