Roundup: Ukrainian Stoves, Chinese New Year … – 06880

Westport’s $250,000+ fundraising for our new sister city of Lyman, Ukraine continues to make a real difference, in that war-ravaged town.

Yesterday, 50 stoves were delivered. They fill a crucial need. Many residents lack both heat and electricity, in the aftermath of 5 months of Russian occupation.

The stoves — sourced in Europe by Brian Mayer, the Westporter/founder of Ukraine Aid International, and delivered with the help of Liz Olegov from the Alex21 group — bear the names of those groups, and our 2 towns.

Brian and Liz continue to address the immediate needs of Lyman residents.

To see Katya Wauchope’s video of the stove deliveries, click below.

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The new Chinese Year of the Rabbit begins today.

In Chinese culture, the rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity. It can’t come a moment too soon.

And Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is ready to celebrate, with her fellow animal.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Toquet Hall is providing a “lighthouse” for LGBTQ+ youth.

Lighthouse is a confidential drop-in space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning young people to seek support. It runs every Monday, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.. at the downtown teen center.

A special “Night of Queer History” will introduce the program, with a special Jeopardy game, and a free dinner (January 30, 6 p.m., Toquet Hall). Longtime LGBTQ advocate Dan Woog — hey, that’s me! — will speak briefly on where the gay community has been, and where it’s going.

LGBTQ+ people of all ages — and allies — are welcome.

Questions? Call 203-661-1911, or email Phoebe Oler: poler@kidsincrisis.org.

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Chabad of Westport celebrated its annual gala last night.

Honorees included Marissa and Hy Saporta (Community Builder Award), Elke and Lyle Katz (Jewish Heritage Award), and Sarah Hanna and Noah Wollowick (Camp Gan Israel Award).

Enjoying last night’s Chabad gala (from left): 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Liz and Avi Kaner, Rabbi Yehuda Kantor.

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The CAMP Gallery’s new show opened Friday. It runs through February 28, with a special wine-and-cheese, meet the artist event set for this Friday (January 27, 5 to 8 p.m.).

Lydia Viscardi is a mixed media artist who creates paintings through collage and sculpture, with found objects. 

Rita Valley works in large-scale, hand-sewn fabric banners. Her political and confrontational imagery tackles social trends, morality and political behaviors. 

CAMP Gallery (190 Main Street) is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CAMP Gallery’s current exhibit.