Tag Archives: Special Olympics

Roundup: Fireworks Tickets, Car Fire, Special Olympics Torch …

Posted on May 31, 2024 | 11 comments

The Independence Day fireworks are coming soon.

And tickets are available now.

The annual event — organized by the Westport Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department, and sponsored once again by longtime Westport residents/Staples High School graduates Melissa and Doug Bernstein — is Tuesday, July 2.

Tickets to the fireworks — shot from a barge in Long Island Sound, and the culmination of a day of picnics, parties and fun all along Compo Beach — are available in the front lobbies of both the Westport Police Department on Jesup Road, and the Parks & Rec Office in Longshore Club Park, near the first tee.

Tickets ($50 per car) allow entrance into the Compo parking lots. They are on sale 24/7 at the police station now, and during business hours at Parks & Rec (starting June 1). All sales are cash or check; no credit cards.

Proceeds from the fireworks help fund PAL operating expenses. The organization serves thousands of youngsters each year, through sports programs and scholarships. PAL also runs the ice skating rink at Longshore.

Doug Bernstein (5th from left) hands Police Chief Foti Koskinas the ceremonial first fireworks ticket yesterday. Also on hand (from left): Parks & Rec operations director Carmen Roda, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, PAL president Craig Bergamo, Melissa Bernstein, Parks & Rec interim director Rick Giunta and Lieut. Matthew Gouveia. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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This afternoon (Friday), Westport Police officers will carry the Flame of Hope through town, in support of Special Olympics of Connecticut.

Norwalk Police will hand off the Flame at the Westport/Norwalk town line on Route 1 (Post Road West) at approximately 12:00 p.m.

Westport officers will carry the torch along the Post Road, and pass it off to Fairfield police at the Fairfield border.

Police will escort the torch through town. Residents are encouraged to watch and support this great cause.

The Special Olympics torch run last year: Post Road at the Sherwood Island Connector. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Dunville’s — the 40-plus-year-old hangout in the heart of Saugatuck — celebrated its grand re-opening last night.

The restaurant/bar is now called Little Pub @ Dunville’s. Doug Grabe — the owner of the local chain — is keeping the name and vibe of the well-loved local institution. It’s open 7 days a week, for lunch and dinner.

Cutting the ceremonial ribbon (actually a caution tape) last night, from row from left: RTM member Sal Liccione, Planning & Zoning chair Paul Lebowitz, selectwomen Jen Tooke and Candice Savin, State Senator Ceci Maher, RTM member Matthew Mandell, owner Doug Grabe. Rear: RTM member Andrew Colabella, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, RTM member Andrew Bloom.

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As graduation nears, every night brings a different celebration.

All are special. But the High Honors dinner at Staples last night was particularly meaningful.

Twenty students — the top 4% of the Class of 2024 — were honored for their achievements.

Each invited one teacher or counselor. Each educator spoke for a few minutes about “their” student.

Bonds between the teachers and teenagers were strong and deep. A wide variety of disciplines was represented: English, social studies, science, math and music.

There were stories of STEM students who found loves for literature and government; of conversations about life before and after school that transcended classrooms; of challenges made and surpassed.

Each student thanked their teachers — and their parents — for getting them where they are today.

There are many reasons to be fearful about the future of our world. Last night offered 21 reasons to be very, very optimistic.

The High Honors students were Kathryn Asiel, Emerson Briggs, Coco Crombie, Gabriela de Brito, Eitan Eiger, Dylan Fiore, Peter Loranger, Defne Merih, Neva Mermagen, Connor Ng, Ellen Ou, Mabel Propper, Jeremy Rosenkranz, Jameson Russell, Kaitlyn Seo, Elizabeth Turner, Darren Weng, Gabriel Weng, valedictorian Leigh Foran and salutatorian Andrew Berkowitz.

The teachers and staff members they honored were Rasha Tarek, Will Jones, Deborah Slocum, Noreen McGoldrick, Robert Shamberg, Alexandra McHale, Michael Mezzo, Maxim Kolb, Heather Wirkus, Ann Neary, Jon Shepro, Dominick Messina, Heather Colletti-Houde, Joe Barahona and Brian Tippy.

Staples High School’s 2024 High Honors graduates-to-be.

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The Westport Fire Department responded to a car fire on Long Lots Road at 5:45 p.m. last night.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fully engulfed vehicle.

The fire is under investigation by the the fire marshal’s office. There were no injuries.

Scenes from yesterday’s car fire. (Photos courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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That wasn’t the only action for the Fire Department last night.

Tyler Errickson writes: “This was my son Oliver’s 3rd birthday. He loves fire trucks.

“I asked the team at Westport Fire headquarters if they would show us around. They did not hesitate — and gave both my boys a day to remember

“I want to thank the entire team at the fire station, and remind everyone how lucky we are to live in this community.”

The Errickson family, at Fire headquarters.

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A friend of a Westport teacher is fostering a 2-year-old dog named Cricket.

Unfortunately, they can no longer care for her. If they do not find anyone to adopt her, she will have to go back to a shelter.

Cricket is well behaved, spayed, and up to date with all vaccinations. “06880” readers interested in learning more should call 203-805-2437.

Cricket

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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibition, “Summer Crush,” showcases original paintings by artists who draw inspiration from water and the coast in a wide variety of styles, from abstract to hyper-realistic.  

The exhibition opens on June 15, 2024, with a reception from 2-4 p.m.

An artists’ talk and Q-and-A at 2:30 features Julia Contacessi, Kelly Rossetti, Nealy Hauschildt and Tony Iadicicco. Light refreshments with a summer rosé will be served.

The show runs through July 6. For more information, click here.

“Summer Crush” at Sorelle Gallery.

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Carl Addison Swanson has seen plenty of violations of this rule.

He reminds “06880” readers: If you raise your hand to traffic at a crosswalk, you have the right of the way.

Drivers: Stop for pedestrians who raise their hands at crosswalks.

But pedestrians: Look both ways, to make sure those drivers have stopped!

Stop for pedestrians!

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Have you seen today’s “Westport … Naturally” deer?

Richard Fogel has. And, he says of this one — seen here at the corner of East Main Street and Whitney Road Extension — it is “a family pet. Crazy. You can walk up and touch it.”

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … today is the final day of National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month.

(“06880” is your place for hyper-local news, 24/7/365. Every day, we rely on reader support. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Unsung Hero #332

Posted on April 24, 2024 | 4 comments

Every Wednesday, “06880” honors an Unsung Hero.

Now Special Olympics Connecticut has named one of its own. And its one of our own too.

Dick Harris received the 2024 award for his “extraordinary, enduring support of the organization as a volunteer.” Nearly 600 guests attended the recent ceremony.

Dick Harris (2nd from left) at the Unsung Hero ceremony. Also in the photo (from left): Special Olympics Connecticut president and CEO Mike Mason, and athletes Brian Drexler and Nick Sinicori.

During his more than 35 years with Special Olympics, Harris has coached track and field, and swimming.

He also served as local coordinator of Special Olympics’ Our Vision team. It serves athletes of all abilities in Westport and surrounding towns, offering opportunities to participate in inclusive sports training, competitions and health and fitness programs.

As local coordinator Harris managed the team, coordinated practices, recruited coaches and volunteers, accompanied athletes to state Special Olympics games. He also involved members of the Our Vision team in Special Olympics Connecticut’s annual Fairfield Penguin Plunge fundraiser

He continues serving Our Vision as a mentor to its newer leaders.

Congratulations, Dick Harris: Special Olympics Connecticut’s Unsung Hero — and “06880”‘s!

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

 

 

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Roundup: Fashionably Westport, Cops, 3 Presidents …

Posted on March 29, 2024 | 10 comments

Hundreds of Westporters mingled, sipped cocktails, nibbled on light bites, listened to jazz, bid on auction items, and watched dozens of neighbors walk the Westport Library runway last night.

“Fashionably Westport” is one of the town’s hottest tickets. The annual Westport Downtown Association event is a fundraiser for Homes with Hope.

MC Dave Briggs and runway director Carey Price kept things lively.

A full day of in-store activities follows today (Friday, March 29).

Seen on the runway: 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …

… Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella …

… and a host of other models. MC Dave Briggs is at right. (Photos/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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When it comes to watching — and understanding — a solar eclipse, most of us are, well, in the dark.

The always-helpful folks at the Westport Astronomical Society can help.

For the April 8 event, Westport Observatory volunteers will bring telescopes and safety gear to the Westport Library’s upper parking lot (near the Levitt Pavilion).

Peak eclipse is at 3:26 p.m., when the sun in Westport will be 90.7% obscured.

The next partial solar eclipses aren’t until 2028 and 2029 — and they won’t obscure the sun anywhere near what we’ll see next month.

For that, you’ll have to wait until the total solar eclipse on the morning of May 1, 2079.

 Partial solar eclipse.

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There are a thousand reasons to appreciate and admire our Westport Police Department.

Here’s reason 1,001.

Next Thursday (April 4, 5 to 9 p.m.), officers will “work” with the wait staff at Rizzuto’s restaurant. Customers are encouraged to leave extra tips. They’ll all go to Special Olympics Connecticut.

Our police are known as Westport’s finest. Thanks to the force, Rizzuto’s and Special Olympics, for this very “fine” idea.

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Music and Women’s History Month are the themes of 4 new art exhibits at the Westport Library.

“Thinking Inside the Box” on the main level is an idea put forward by artist and author Melissa Newman. 21 artists from around the area created multi-dimensional works.

In the Sheffer Gallery, Marlene Siff’s “Finely Tuned” features 5 large dimensional paintings named for, and linked to, a specific expression found in music, along with several maquettes she created prior to construction of the final pieces. Visitors to the gallery can scan a QR code next to each piece and listen to the musical selections that inspired her. Finely Tuned runs through June 10, with a reception and artist talk moderated by Miggs Burroughs on May 5 (2 p.m.).

Also running through June 10 is Camille Eskell’s exhibit, “Scheherazade: Storyteller.” Eskell’s reception and talk is on Wednesday (6 p.m.). Eskell’s digital photo-based collages incorporate textiles such as saris, hand-made paper, cast sculpture, trims, jewels, and more, to explore self-perception, societal attitudes, and psychological states related to gender bias.

Rounding out the new exhibits is “Art of the Album: And All That Jazz,” album covers from the collection of Ellen and Mark Naftalin, displayed in the Jesup Gallery. It features album covers of some of the pioneering jazz musicians who changed the face and sound of American music forever.

From left: Camille Eskell, Marlene Siff, Mark Naftalin.

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David Meth went to the transfer station the other day. The amount of trash in one gigantic vehicle stunned him.

He watched in awe as it disgorged its garbage. It took a long time.

As the truck unloaded and the pit filled, David took some photos.

“06880” often posts beautiful shots, of gorgeous Westport.

These are a bit different. But they too provide an important look into who we are.

Beginning …

middle …

… and end. (Photos/David Meth)

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Westport loves our ospreys.

But as we look at these magnificent raptors, it’s easy to forget that they survive by preying on other creatures.

The other day, one of our Fresh Market ospreys dined out on a good-sized flounder. Ospreys have a keen eye for detecting prey from afar, sharp talons for killing, and powerful beaks for tearing flesh.

That’s today’s  “Westport … Naturally” nature lesson.

(Photo/Mark Laclair)

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And finally … I was at the “3 Presidents” event at Radio City Music Hall last night. Joe Biden, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton were interviewed by Stephen Colbert.

It was a remarkable evening.

The 3 US presidents discussed the state of America and the world. They looked back at history, and forward to November.

They were interrupted several times by protestors, angry about Biden’s policies in the Middle East. “Let them speak,” he said.

Obama took a stronger tone: “You can’t just talk, and not listen. The world is complicated. It’s hard to solve these problems.”

There were speeches too by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and First Lady Jill Biden.

Plus — and this is where this feature is heading — entertainment. The list included Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, Lea Michele and Mindy Kaling.

Cynthia Erivo

The only one of those performers I had ever seen live was Ben Platt. I’m sure I would have gone to my grave without imagining seeing any of the others.

But they all slayed.

So — in keeping with our traditional end-of-Roundup musical salutes — enjoy:

(“06880” is indeed “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Police, Politics

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Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

Posted on November 22, 2023 | Comments Off on Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

The video is grainy. But it sends an important message.

Westport’s Police Department released film from a Nest camera, recorded early Monday morning.

It shows 2 people running up a driveway, where 2 cars are parked. One person tries to open one driver’s side door; the other attempts to open the other vehicle.

Both are locked. The men quickly scamper away, to a car waiting on the road.

Screen shot of the attempted theft. A man is trying the doors of the re car; another approaches the vehicle on the left. The getaway car is at the upper right.

“A great example of what happens when you lock the car doors … they leave!” the police say.

There is no stronger proof than this: Residents should always lock their cars.

If everyone does, the difference in auto thefts will be like night and day.

(If you are on Facebook, click here to play the video.)

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While many Westporters were preoccupied with planning a Thanksgiving feast for family and friends, Gillian Anderson worried about area residents who can’t afford a turkey dinner or holiday experience.

When she learned that the Light on the Hill food pantry at Summerfield United Methodist Church in Bridgeport had fallen short on its Thanksgiving food drive for 250 families, Gillian called on her friends at the Westport Rotary Club and the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston.

They quickly volunteered to raise money, then shop and drive carloads of food — including frozen turkeys — to Bridgeport.

80 turkeys, 180 boxes of stuffing mix and 50 cans of cranberry sauce were procured and transported. All 250 families received their Thanksgiving dinners.

The Turkey Drive generated so much enthusiasm at Westport Rotary that this holiday project may become a new club tradition.

Lots of turkeys, at Summerfield United Methodist Church.

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Just in time for holiday gift giving (and its tedious cousin, gift wrapping), Jean Symonette has started a new business  out of her Westport home.

The Wrapping Bow-tique — a wrapping service — “understands that the presentation of a gift is as crucial as the gift itself. With hundreds of paper and ribbons to choose from, we transform ordinary presents into gifts that are as unique and beautiful as the sentiment behind them.”

The Wrapping Bow-tique also creates environmentally friendly gift boxes.  All are repurposed, and reusable with lids that lift off. They are hand wrapped in premium paper, and adorned with bows.

Click here for the website; click here for the Facebook page; click here for Instagram.

Questions? Email jeanwrappingbowtique@gmail.com.

Wrapping Bow-tique samples.

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For many years, the Westport Weston Family Y has opened its doors and programs to the special needs community.

This winter, the Y expand its programming, and reestablishes its partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut.

The Y’s special needs programs include gymnastics, swimming, open play, and organized sports like basketball and soccer. People of all ages with social, behavioral and physical differences can enjoy a variety of activities that promote wellness, creativity, socialization and belonging. 

To support those efforts, the Y has hired Brittany Williams as special needs coordinator.

Y chief operations officer Christina Scherwin says, “Last weekend we celebrated our gold medal champions. ‘Team Happy’ participated in the Special Olympics unified basketball state tournament, and placed first in their division.

“It’s not about the color of the medal though, but the process. These participants have worked really hard improving their skills, attention and teamwork. It is so rewarding to see their progress and dedication shine through.”

This spring, the Westport Weston Family Y debuts its first Special Needs Prom. Participants ages 14 and up will enjoy a prom experience, with a red carpet entrance, live DJ, dancing, photo booth, food, and fun activities.

The Kiev family’s contributions support this expansion of the Y’s programming.

To volunteer on the court or poolside as a coach, player, mentor, prom date or helping organize social activities, or to become an event sponsor, email bwilliams@westporty.org. For more information, click here.

Westport Weston Family Y Special Olympics participants.

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Earthplace invites Westporters (and their holiday guests) to check out several drop-in offerings this Thanksgiving weekend (except tomorrow).

“Story and Animal Program” runs every day except Sunday (and Thanksgiving) at 10;30 a.m. Children 5 and under enjoy and animal-themed story, and an encounter with an Animal Hall resident.

“Birds of Prey Feedings” are held daily at 11 a.m. Watch the feeding, and learn what birds eat in the wild.

“Saturdays at Earthplace” (November 25, noon) is a chance for children of all ages to take part in a nature-based arts and crafts activity. A parent or caregiver must be present.

For more information, click here.

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Yesterday’s Roundup included an incorrect date for Club 203’s next event.

The social group for adults with disabilities will celebrate the holidays on Monday, December 4 — not “next Monday’ — from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at MoCA.

There’s square dancing, a Western photo area, food and giveaways. Parents are invited to stay and celebrate too.

Click here for reservations, and more information. Questions? Email club203ct@gmail.com.

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The Westport Country Playhouse “Script in Hand” season concludes with “Warrior Class.”

The December 4 (7 p.m.) play is about a candidate for Congress. “The ghosts of his college days come back to haunt him. Nothing reveals true colors like a sprint to the finish, when friends become enemies and allies can turn on a dime. ‘Warrior Class’ is a political battle of race, romance, forgiveness and debt.”

All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Steve Halstead sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this note:

“A pileated woodpecker eats an early Thanksgiving dinner on a tree behind our house.”

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

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And finally … I’ve posted Dion’s powerful “Abraham, Martin and John” video before.

Today, on the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President Kennedy, here is an especially haunting version of a song that — sadly — never grows old.

(If you learn nothing else from “06880,” it’s this: Lock your car! If that saves you several thousand dollars, consider a contribution to your hyper-local blog. Please click here. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

Posted in Children, Environment, Local business, Police, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Staples Hoops, Blau Gardens, Special Olympics …

Posted on March 20, 2023 | 11 comments

The Staples High School boys basketball team reached the end of the line yesterday.

#1 ranked St. Bernard-Uncasville topped the #7 Wreckers, 63-50 in the state Division II finals, at Mohegan Sun.

But Staples’ heads are high. First-year coach Dave Goldshore’s squad enjoyed a storybook season. They reached the FCIAC championship game, then electrified everyone with a stunning 4th-quarter comeback from 18 points down in the state semifinal to advance to the title game for the first time in 86 years.

And they did it all with talent, teamwork, tenacity, passion, poise — and plenty of class.

Thanks, Wreckers, for entertaining and inspiring an entire town, all season long!

The 2023 Staples High School boys basketball team.

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Blau House & Gardens is one of Westport’s hidden gems.

High on a Bayberry Ridge hill, the mid-century home (designed by noted Broadway set designer Ralph Alswang) and bountiful gardens (inspired by the Villa Ephrussi de Rotshchild) were developed over more than half a century by advertising entrepreneur Barry Blau.

Blau House & Gardens.

It’s a special property. A recent visitor called it “spectacular! Soothing, cool and wonderful to experience the calm and peacefulness of this environment.” Another described it as “nirvana in Westport.”

BHG is a public charity. Its mission is to acquire and transform the intimate, beautiful midcentury building and space into a public asset for arts, horticulture and garden enjoyment.

Blau house, designed by Ralph Alswang.

Pilot programming has included a book reading by a New York Times best- selling author, a college horticulture field trip, a garden lecture for the Garden Conservancy, and several garden tours.

But Blau’s widow Eileen died last week. The future of the property is uncertain. The estate will have to sell the property to meet mortgage and property expenses.

BHG has the opportunity to acquire it — essential to supporting their mission. They need to raise funds now.

$3 million would include:

  • $1.5 million for the house and gardens
  • $1 million for adjacent property on Fairview Drive, for parking and support facilities
  • $500,000 to start an endowment for operations and maintenance, for 5 years.

The minimum needed is $1.5 million, for the Bayberry Ridge property and gardens.

To help, or for more information, email r@blauhouseandgardens.org, or call 203-952-3335. For a PowerPoint presentation on the project, click here. For the Blau House & Gardens website, click here.

Another view of the gardens.

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With March Madness in full swing, this event tonight seems quite timely:

Positive Directions sends news of a Region I Gambling Awareness Team webinar tonight called “Betting on Your Future: What Parents, Teens and Young Adults Need to Know About Sports Betting.”

The Zoom session covers, among other topics, the import of sports betting on youth and the developing brain, and its correlation to mental health.

The webinar is tonight (Monday, March 20, 7 p.m.). To register, click here.

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Long-time Westporter, watercolorist and Save Westport Now board member Matthew Levine has one more passion: healthy vision.

Having worked in eye research grant-making for the past 20 years, he knows that 80% of vision loss is preventable — if people practice healthy habits.

“I wish I’d known years ago what I know about eye health,” he says. “I might have been able to help my father (renowned caricaturist David Levine) from losing his career to macular degeneration.”

But Matthew Levine is helping many others. He appears in a new documentary, “Losing Sight, Finding Hope: Loving with Macular Degeneration,” created by the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.

It premieres tonight (Monday, March 20), at 8 p.m. on YouTube. Click here to see.

If you miss it, no problem. The film will be available afterward, at the same link.

Click below for the teaser:

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For over 45 years, Our Vision has provided recreational and social activities for people with disabilities.

Among the most popular activities: Special Olympics competitions in bowling, track and swimming.

On April 15, nearly 2 dozen Our Vision members and friends will take part in a Penguin Plunge at Fairfield’s Jennings Beach in Fairfield to raise money for Special Olympics.

As of this morning, Westporter Michael Johnson led, with the most number of donors. Click here to contribute to his campaign, or the team in general.

To learn more about Our Vision, email ourvisioninfo@yahoo.com.

Our Vision Penguin Plunge. (Photo/Bob Schroeder)

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“06880” has been proud to feature photos by Tom Kretsch. The Westporter — a retired educator — has a keen eye for compelling landscapes.

The Wilton Library appreciates his talent too. A pair of Kretsch’s shots were just awarded prizes at their “Focus 2 Photo Exhibit.”

Three judges scored images based on content, execution, subject matter, lighting and visualization.

“Winter Peace for Two, Southport” earned a 2nd place ribbon.

“Winter Peace for Two, Southport” (Tom Kretsch)

“The Poetry of Barns, Serene” — taken in Litchfield — placed 3rd.

“The Poetry of Barns, Serene” (Tom Kretsch)

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Rock sculptor/photographer Jerry Kuyper submitted today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, from his property on Rayfield Road.

He asks: “Nurture or nature? This stood for years. But I needed to rebuild it after recent strong winds.”

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … Bobby Caldwell died last week, of long-term complications of a toxic reaction to antibiotics. He was 71.

The New York Times called him “a singer-songwriter whose sultry R&B hit “What You Won’t Do for Love” propelled his debut album to double-platinum status in 1978 and was later covered by chart-toppers like Boyz II Men and Michael Bolton….

“Over his 4-decade career Mr. Caldwell swerved freely among genres, exploring R&B, reggae, soft rock and smooth jazz, as well as standards from the Great American Songbook.” Click here for a full obituary.

(From basketball to beauty, “06880” covers Westport. As a non-profit, we rely on readers’ contributions. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Media, Sports, Staples HS

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Tim Harman’s Milestone

Posted on June 27, 2022 | 11 comments

In these polarized days, there is little that Westporters agree on.

From national issues like reproductive rights and our leaders, to local ones like the Cribari Bridge and affordable housing, battle lines have hardened.

But there is one thing all “06880” readers know: We love Tim Harman.

You’ve seen him — always smiling — bagging groceries at Stop & Shop.

Tim recently celebrated 30 years an an employee there. He started as part of Staples High School’s work/study program. For 3 decades, he’s been one of the supermarket’s most loyal employees. 

Tim’s sister-in-law Karen writes proudly about other parts of Tim’s life:

In addition to Stop & Shop, Tim — who is now 51 — works at the wonderful Prospector Theater In Ridgefield. Its mission is to  offer work opportunities to residents with special needs.

Tim Harman, working at the Prospector Theater …

Tim is also a longtime member of Our Vision. The organization’s mission is to enrich the lives for persons with disabilities by providing social, cultural and recreational activities which foster enduring friendships, and expand their potential through teamwork and training in Special Olympics.

But Tim’s greatest gifts are his infectious smile, and that he knows almost everyone in town —  from everyday shoppers to teachers and coaches, and the town firefighters who come in almost  daily.

In fact, he is an honorary firefighter, riding in the fire truck every Memorial Day parade.

… riding in the Memorial Day parade …

Every new customer is a new friend. The next time you meet him, he will remember your name. You can’t go anywhere without him knowing somebody.  Some refer to him as the unofficial Ambassador of Westport.

Tim is a life-long Westporter. He attended Westport schools as a special education student, all the way, from Coleytown Elementary and Middle Schools, through Staples High. Tim was a member of the Wreckers swim team, and a manager for the baseball team.

His sports talent is evident at annual Connecticut Special Olympics competitions. He has run, swum, and even tried shot putting this year.

He’s pretty good. He has won close to 100 medals over the past 45 years ,including 3 last month. Tim doesn’t even count his  ribbons.

… starring at Special Olympics …

Ask him about his favorite teams. He is a long-suffering fan of the Mets, Knicks and  Giants. He can tell you the scores of each team’s games the next day.

Tim’s parents, Gail and Jim Harman, moved to Westport in 1963. Gail spent many years as a paraprofessional at Staples. Jim is well known as the proprietor of the garage next to The Porch @ Christe’s. Tim’s brother Jim lives locally, while his sister Liz  calls New York City home. Both went through Westport schools, as did Tim’s niece Chase Harman Burke and nephew Andrew Harman.

Tim is a proud and loving uncle to 6 adults, and grand-uncle to 7 little ones.

… and with a great-nephew.

Congratulations, Tim, on your 30 years at Stop & Shop. And thank
you for making Westport a better place, every day!

(“06880” relies completely on reader support. Please click here to contribute.)

Tim Harman (bottom row, center) with his family.

 

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Posted in Education, Local business, Staples HS, Westport life

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Westport Y Puts Special Focus On Special Needs

Posted on January 21, 2020 | 8 comments

Every day — at all hours — the Westport Weston Family YMCA pulses with activity.

The gym, pool, spin center, yoga and fitness rooms — all are filled with boys and girls, men and women, all active to whatever degree of intensity works for them.

It’s a friendly, vibrant place. Many members come regularly. They greet fellow basketball players, swimmers, runners and Zumbaists with smiles and waves.

Some of the heartiest greetings go to members with special needs. They may be in wheelchairs, or come in groups with aides. They may talk loudly, or not at all. All are welcome at the Y.

Enjoying the gym at the Westport Weston Family Y.

Their swims, workouts, classes and social interactions are among the highlights of their days. The folks who share the pool, fitness center and classrooms are happy to see them too.

The Westport Y offers group membership programs to 5 group homes in Fairfield County. Over 100 clients take advantage of the facility off Wilton Road.

Membership director Brian Marazzi says that STAR has the longest association with the Y: more than a decade. Clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities take part in a wide array of activities. Some arrive independently, to exercise.

STAR clients, outside the Westport Y.

St. Catherine Academy — a Fairfield-based private school — uses the warm pool for recreational swim and aqua-therapy for severely disabled clients. The group then socializes with a large group lunch in the lobby.

St. Catherine’s appreciates the family and dependent care locker room, which includes a private special needs shower and changing room. Staff also store equipment at the Y.

Ability Beyond and Keystone House clients focus on the Wellness Center. Members of Abilis — the newest group home to join the Y — primarily walk on the treadmill, and use the gym.

Some of the more independent clients come on their own. A few have become volunteers themselves, meeting and greeting guests.

But that’s only part of the way the Westport Y serves the special needs population.

Sixty kids and young adults ages 8 to 21 play basketball and floor hockey, swim and do track and field, under the guidance of paid and volunteer coaches. Many are involved in Special Olympics, but that is not a prerequisite for Y participation.

A special needs swimmer, and an equally enthusiastic volunteer.

The Sunday morning swim program is particularly popular. A 1:1 ratio of volunteers — many of them members of the Westport Water Rats team — to athletes ensures education, safety and fun. The special needs swimmers are also called Water Rats, and proudly wear the team’s logowear.

Strong bonds are clear. Over Christmas break, as volunteers returned from college, there were joyful reunions and hugs. Parents of special needs swimmers develop their own community too, as they watch from the deck or gym.

Oliver Clachko has made a special impact. He was last year’s near-unanimous choice as Westport Weston Family Y Volunteer of the Year. He enjoys working with the special needs program so much, he’s recruiting friends and classmates to help too.

This spring, the Y hosts its first-ever special needs swim meet.

The Westport Y Water Rat Special Olympics swim team.

Up in the gym, basketball players hone their skills. They compete too, in a “Hoopla” against other area Ys.

Special Needs Teen Nights are another popular event.

Marazzi says the Y has gotten very positive feedback — from clients, group home workers, parents of special needs youngsters, and other Y members too.

Occasionally, he says, members complain about noise or behavior. Marazzi quickly counters, “We love having them here. We’re very inclusive.”

It’s the Westport Weston Family YMCA, remember.

And don’t forget: There are many ways to define family.

(The Westport Y’s Special Olympics and other special needs programs rely in part on fundraising. Starting on her 10th birthday, Chloe Kiev asked that instead of gifts, friends and family donate to the effort. Click here for more information.) 

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Meet Nick Zeoli: Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal

Posted on May 23, 2019 | 11 comments

The ranks of World War II veterans are rapidly thinning.

One of these years, no one will remain from that world-changing conflict to honor at Westport’s Memorial Day parade.

But it seems like Nick Zeoli has been — and will be — around forever.

The 2019 grand marshal is a proud Saugatuck native. He was born in 1923 to Dominick (a firefighter), and Olympia Zeoli. On July 1, he will be 96 years young.

Zeoli was a star football, basketball and baseball player at Staples High School, on Riverside Avenue just down the street from his home.

Young Nick Zeoli.

He was offered a football scholarship to Gettysburg College. But with war raging, he enlisted in the Navy.

He was assigned to the USS Boston, a heavy cruiser. Zeoli spent 3 years in the Pacific Theater. His ship engaged in 13 major battles, including Okinawa.

He was promoted to Radarman 3rd Class, and received a commendation from legendary Admiral William Halsey Jr.

After discharge in December 1945, Zeoli enrolled at Arnold College (later absorbed into the University of Bridgeport). He earned a BA in physical education, then went on to receive master’s degrees from both Bridgeport and Columbia.

Zeoli spent his summers during college as head lifeguard at Compo Beach. That’s where he met 1949 Staples grad Joanne Scott.

They married in 1952. On June 13, they’ll celebrate their 67th wedding anniversary. Their children Steve, Chris and Nikki are all Staples alumni.

Nick’s grandchildren — Jennifer, Charlotte and Nicholas — attend Westport schools. All are on track to be 3rd-generation Staples graduates.

Nick Zeoli, physical education teacher.

Zeoli began his career as a substitute teacher in Westport. But Wilton — newly opened as a high school — offered him a full-time job as phys. ed. teacher and head football coach.

He soon became Wilton’s first athletic director, and won national awards for his work.

He spearheaded the development of the high school field house — the first in New England. When he retired in 1994, it was named the Nicholas T. Zeoli Fieldhouse.

In Westport — where he always lived — Zeoli directed the Special Olympics program. He trained Special Olympics coaches in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Nick Zeoli, a few years ago.

For many years, Zeoli emceed the Sportsmen of Westport awards ceremony. In 1985, the organization presented him with its Sportsmen Award.

Last June, Zeoli was honored by the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference for his lifetime contribution.

There’s still plenty of life left in Nick Zeoli. He and his wife live now on a lake in Vermont.

He looks forward to making the trip south, and talking about nearly a century of life in Westport, and in war.

(This year’s Memorial Day parade kicks off on Monday at 9 a.m., at Saugatuck Elementary School. It heads down Riverside Avenue to the Post Road, goes over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Bridge, and takes a left on Myrtle Avenue before ending up at Town Hall. A ceremony — including grand marshal Nick Zeoli’s address — follows immediately, approximately 10:30 at Veterans Green. The parade and ceremony are two wonderful Westport traditions. Don’t miss them!)

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Y Special Olympic Swimmers Splash To Success

Posted on June 11, 2016 | 1 comment

Just 6 months ago, “06880” announced that the Westport Weston Family YMCA was forming a Special Olympics swim team.

The group came together quicker than Michael Phelps churns through pools.

This weekend, 16 athletes travel to Hamden and New Haven, to compete in Connecticut’s Special Olympic Games.

Their ages range from 10 to 18. Some need assistance to swim 15 meters. Others race on their own for 50 meters.

All have a fantastic time. All practice once a week. And all are supported by a wonderful team of coaches and volunteers.

Good luck to all. Of course, they — and the Y — are already winners.

Westport YMCA senior program director Jay Jaronko (2nd from left), and Special Olympics athletes, coaches and volunteers.

Westport YMCA senior program director Jay Jaronko (2nd from left), and Special Olympics athletes, coaches and volunteers.

(Hat tip: Marshall Kiev)

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Special Olympics Swimming Makes A Splash

Posted on November 28, 2015 | 3 comments

Marshall and Johanna Kiev do not see the glass as half full. The Westport couple find it overflowing.

When their daughter Chloe broke her arm playing on the monkey bars at Coleytown Elementary School, the Kievs spearheaded a drive for a better playground.

Chloe Kiev, after a recent horse show.

Chloe Kiev, after a recent horse show.

To help Chloe — who has Williams Syndrome, a genetic disorder that includes heart problems and developmental delays — enjoy activities with friends and classmates, Marshall and Johanna worked with the Westport school system to add Special Olympics Unified Sports to its already very successful Staples High School project. Unified Sports teams include youngsters with and without disabilities. A full elementary program begins this winter.

At the same time, the Kievs approached the Westport Weston Family Y about a more traditional Special Olympics program. They loved the idea.

The result: Registration for the Y’s new swim offering begins Monday (November 30).

Youth ages 8 to 21 years old will learn or improve their swimming abilities. They’ll compete on a team. In June, they’ll join the Special Olympics Summer Games in New Haven.

Westport Y logoSpecial Olympics Swimming will run year-round. Eight-week sessions begin in January, with sessions each Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Practices will be age- and ability-coordinated, coordinated by a certified swim coach and volunteer assistants.

The Kievs led a fundraising effort — a Halloween party — with many generous attendees. So there’s no cost to participants. The Y will help cover any additional funds.

The entire Kiev family is thrilled about the new program — but no one more than Chloe. “I’m so excited to swim and win medals and have my friends come and watch me,” she says.

(For more information on the Westport Y’s Special Olympics swim program, click here; call Jay Jaronko at 203-226-8983, or email jjaronko@westporty.org.  To read more about the Kievs and Chloe’s Williams Syndrome, click here.)

Eddie, Chloe and Ben Kiev.

Eddie, Chloe and Ben Kiev.

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