Westport Woman's Club Bulletin
Westport Woman's Club
NOVEMBER 2019
Board of Directors 2019-2020
President  Christina McVaney;   1st VP Special Interests   Kim Reichert; 
2nd VP Finance   Maria Fraile;  3rd VP Ways & Means   Donna Pellittieri; 
Secretary   Donna Sedgwick; Treasurer   Wynne Abrams; 
Communications  Gloria Smithson;   Community Services Donna Richardson; 
Curio Cottage  Deb Fratino ;  Grounds  Ellen Hooker & Janette Duchnicki
House  Sarah Menchaca; Membership  Robin Clark; 
Parliamentary Advisor  Sharon Jones;   Programs Lauri Weiser; 
Rentals   Ana Hitri   YDF   TBD
Past President   Dorothy Packer
PRESIDENT'S LETTER



Dear Ladies,
 
Thank you to Robin Clark, our Membership Chair, for organizing such a beautiful and most successful membership drive to date.  On the evening of September 25, we set up a tent by our gazebo and welcomed prospective members to our club.  A good time was had by all eating nibbles and drinking wine!

Speaking of wine, our 3rd annual wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres evening,  Sip & Savor 2019 , is scheduled for
Saturday, November 16.  The ticket button will be on our website and live by mid-October, so please send the word out to all of your friends and family.   We heard your feedback last year and lowered the ticket price to $50. I hope this will help get more people to attend. If you know you're not going to be able to make it, you can still contribute to the fundraiser by putting in your order for wines and stocking up for the holidays!

Once again, thank you to Pattie Takita for organizing our Annual Holiday Toy Drive for children who are neglected, abused and undergoing difficult times. Please consider bringing in a new unwrapped toy, gift cards, cash or check made out to "The Children's Connection."

In the spirit of giving, don't forget our Food Closet this month and next when families need it the most; children are home for the holidays and don't receive the free breakfasts and lunches that they would otherwise have while school is in session. Consider bringing in a bag or two of groceries and help out Wendy McKeon and Kim Reichert deliver the food to Town Hall.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!  Always thankful for being a part of such a wonderful, caring and giving WWC community!


All My Best,
 
Christina McVaney 
cmcvaney@yahoo.com
203-293-5190

  IN THIS ISSUE

SUNSHINE GIRLS
Thanks to Lorraine Feliciano for being Sunshine Girl for October.

Our Sunshine Girl for November is
Zita Casey
203-227-3752, croxie30@aol.com

Kim Reichert, 1st VP, kim.reichert@gmail.com
203-362-8256
 
CONDOLENCES

 
Office Hours  
Monday - Friday
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ( Lunch)
Office Manager,
Elizabeth Greenawalt
  203-227-4240
Resident House Manager,
TBD

November 2019

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday





1 2






 
3 4 5 6 7 8 9

CLUB DAY
CANASTA
1:00 - 4:00 pm
MAH JONGG
1:00-4:00 pm
BRIDGE
9:30 am


10 11 12 13 14 15 16


 GARDEN TRIP 
1 0:00 am
 
  CANASTA
1:00-4:00 pm
 

WAYS & MEANS
10:30 am

MAH JONGG
1:00-4:00 pm
BRIDGE
9:30 am




SIP & SAVOR FUNDRAISER

6:00-8:00 PM
17 18 19 20 21 22 23




BOARD MEETING
COMMUNITY
SERVICES
10:00 am  

GOURMET
11:30 pm

CANASTA
1:00-4:00 pm

BUNCO
7:00 pm

 
MAH JONGG
1:00-4:00 pm

BRIDGE
9:30 am

BOOK REVIEW
1:00 pm
BYOB  FRIDAY
4:00 - 5:30 pm

24 25 26 27 28 29 30


  CANASTA
1:00-4:00 pm


 
MAH JONGG
1:00-4:00 pm



Happy Thanksgiving















SIP & SAVOR 2019 FUNDRAISER

Date:  Saturday, November 16
Time:  6:00 - 8:00 pm
Place:  Bedford Hall
Price:  $50.00 per person ($60.00 walk-ins)


CHEERS TO
SIP & SAVOR 2019
Saturday, November 16

Here is a special invitation for every Westport Woman's Club member -  Please mark your calendars for our  club's third annual SIP & SAVOR wine tasting fundraiser on  Saturday, November 16, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm in our Bedford Hall Tasting Room.

Come join us and you will have an opportunity to taste a wide variety of wines, sample a delicious array of seasonal appetizers by Gruel Britannia, win prizes, and enjoy a music-filled evening of fun and fellowship while supporting our club.  Our evening's wine partner, Castle Wine.  has generously agreed to share a  percentage of any SIP & SAVOR wine orders placed that evening. 

So plan ahead, bring your shopping list and order needed wines for Thanksgiving, December holiday events , hostess gifts, gift-giving and support our club with your wine orders placed that evening.

There are several ways to purchase tickets:

November Club Day:
Plan ahead and bring your checkbook to November Club Day (Monday, November 4) and purchase tickets at our Sip & Savor Sales Table.

Online:
Purchase tickets via the WWC website (we will email members once this is active).

Check:
Bring or mail a check to Elizabeth in the WWC Office for $50.00 per ticket, payable to " The Westport Woman's Club, " with " Sip & Savor Tickets " in the memo line.  Please list guest names for Sip & Savor check-in on a separate note.
 
Ads and Sponsorships:
Purchase visibility in our Sip & Savor 2019 Wine Brochure that each guest receives upon arrival.  Download the form here.  Please include check payable to " The Westport Woman's Club " and send with info by Friday,  November 1 .

Opportunities for Color Ads
1/4 Page Ad - $50
1/2 Page Ad - $75
Full Page Ad - $150 /  $100 special rate for WWC Members 
Back Cover - $350
                                              
Opportunities for Sponsorships:
Champagne - donation of $300 and up  (includes the option of a full page ad)
Pinot  - donation of $200 - $299 (includes the option of a full page ad)  
Chardonnay - donation of $100 - $199
Taster  -  donation of $50 - $99

Please spread the word, and commit to buying a ticket for yourself and/or also recruiting someone to attend to enjoy this fall fundraiser in our Bedford Tasting Room.   Invite your friends, neighbors, and family to save the date of Saturday, November 16, and attend our club's SIP & SAVOR 2019.  TOGETHER we can make this club fundraiser a success, and have fun in the process.  All of the evening's profits will benefit our club's amazing community outreach to Fairfield County.

Thanks in advance to all.   

Questions?  Purchase a Sip & Savor Ad or Sponsorship?

Please contact Christina McVaney at  cmcvaney@yahoo.com,  203-293-5190
or Gloria Smithson at  gsmithson@optonline.net,   203-226-8503


CLUB DAY
 
Date:      Monday, November 4
Time:     11:30 am
Where:   Bedford Hall

Plan to join us on Monday, November 4, for Club Day, which will be hosted by our Bridge group led by Barbara Stemmer and the BYOB Friday women headed up by Dorothy Curran.

Please be sure to make your reservation with Elizabeth by 1:00 pm on Wednesday, October 30.

Aux Delices will be serving Chicken Milanese, accompanied by an Arugula, Tomato, and Shaved Parmesan Salad. The vegetarian option will be Eggplant Milanese with the same salad. Assorted Rolls with Butter will be available, and dessert will be Pumpkin Whoopie Pie. That sounds like a delicious lunch!

If you have a serious food allergy or wish to order the vegetarian option, please let me know by Wednesday, October 30. If you need to cancel a reservation, please do so by calling Elizabeth by Wednesday, October 30, to avoid being charged.

Hope to see you at Club Day on Monday, November 4th!

Kim Reichert , kim.reichert@gmail.com , 203-227-4590

PROGRAM

ARANTXA MATEO - WEIGHT MANAGEMENT MENTOR

The Guest Speaker at our November Club Day will be Arantxa Mateo.  Arantxa is a trained biologist, a nutrition specialist, and a weight management mentor.

Arantxa's personal struggles combined with her education in biology and nutrition eventually lead her to develop the 32 Mondays Weight Management Program (32mondays.com), which is not a diet but rather an educational program to teach people how to manage their weight for the rest of their lives. 

Atantxa helps others establish new routines through her innovative program that will keep them focused on losing weight until they reach their goals.  Arantxa believes that "Food is a pleasure. Nobody deserves to be on a diet!"

On Club Day, Arantxa is going to share with us 25 Tips, Recommendations and Best-Kept-Secrets to Avoid Gaining Weight this Holiday Season, so you don't have to start the New Year 2020 feeling guilty or fighting with extra pounds!

If there is enough interest after the program, Arantxa has agreed to start a weight management group at the Club beginning in January 2020.
 
Lauri Weiser, lauri@optonline.net, 203-256-1973

BOOK REVIEW         

Date:        Thursday, November 21
Time:       1:00 pm
Where:     Living Room
Book:        "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" by Lisa See
 
This book tells the tale of two women in 19th century China who, as young girls, pledge to be soulmates for life.  The girls were born in the same month and had their feet bound at the same age, but as it turns out there are differences between them that they only discover as adults.  A silk fan passed back and forth between the girls is where they recorded the major events and turning points of their lives.

All are welcome to join us to discuss this lovely and delicate story.  Please stop by the Library to pick up a copy.



Heike Martin, heikem@optonline.net, (203) 227-2448
Pat Vezendy,  pvezendy@gmail.com,   (203) 226-9869


BUNCO

Date:  Tuesday, November 19
Time:  7:00 pm - Chat & Chew,  7:30 pm - Game begins
Place:  Kitchen/Bedford Hall
Cost:   $5.00 (Sign up on the board in the foyer)
 

Remember ... bring a snack to share!!
All are welcome...No experience necessary!
Come out for a night of  FUN!






Wendy McKeon, XWAMX50@aol.com , 203-222-0038

BYOB FRIDAY

Date:    Friday, November 22
Time:   4:00 - 5:30 pm
Place:   Club Kitchen

"Bring something to sip and nibbles to share; it won't be the same if you're not there!"

IMPORTANT NOTE: Since this November has FIVE Fridays, and the WWC's beloved Sip & Savor fundraiser has snagged Friday #3, BYOB Friday will gather on Friday #4, the last Friday before Thanksgiving!

This timing is perfect for comparing tasting notes from the November 15 Sip & Savor, so we know what vintages to buy in bulk for holiday entertaining! We also can taste-test the appetizers you're planning to serve, if you bring along some samples. (Hint-hint). Otherwise, we'll hear about who's cooking--or not--the big bird, and what's on the menu for the vegetarians. Whether you're sipping cranberry juice, spring water, pinot noir, hot tea or chilled prosecco; whether you're nibbling celery sticks and olive tapenade, tortilla chips and salsa, or sliced cheese and salami; this BYOB is not to be missed.

So...Please "come as you are" and join us in the kitchen!
Just Bring Yourself Over Briefly, to say hello (or linger longer), anytime 4:00 to 5:30 pm, and be sure to Bring Your Own Beverage of choice and nibbles to share. Whether you are new to the WWC or a Member since "forever," this is an easy and entertaining way to meet fellow members, share your secret recipe for cranberry sauce, compare notes on Black Friday shopping deals at the new SoNo Collection, source ideas for hot holiday theatre tickets, ask Siri what Alexa wants for dinner, or simply launch a lovely weekend.

As always, we operate picnic/tailgate style, bringing our own simple set-ups and serving implements, then disappearing without footprints or fingerprints.

Dorothy Curran,  dorothyecurran@aol.com ,   203-246-0543

CANASTA

Date:  Tuesdays
Time:  1:00 - 4:00 pm
Place:  Living Room

We play on Tuesdays from 1:00 - 4:00 pm - if there is a minimum of four players.  Emails are sent out at the beginning of each week to members who are interested in playing.  If you want to be included in these weekly emails, please contact me to put your name on that list.  

All players are welcome, regardless of skill level and experience.  You do not need to have your own Canasta cards and tray but, if you do, please bring them.

Lessons are given, also on Tuesdays from 1:00 - 4:00 pm, to members who would like to learn to play the game or haven't played in years but want to brush up on their skills. Please contact me if you are interested.

Donna Richardson, donnarichardson4@yahoo.com, 203-354-8743


COMMUNITY SERVICES

Date: Tuesday, November 19
Time: 10:00 am           
Location: Living Room
 
We are now beginning the process of reviewing the grant applications and assessing the best way in which WWC can monetarily address the various applicants' needs. WWC members are invited to stop by and join in our reviews and discussions. Knowledge leads one to care and share better. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, November 19, at 10:00 am.

In addition to the above concerns, we especially encourage all members to participate during the holiday season in supporting our Food Closet requests and the below mentioned Holiday Toy Drive . We have supported The Children's Connection Toy Drive, a part of Norwalk's Human Services, for several years.  Their clients' needs remain the same.  You can  bring a bit of JOY to many children through this drive.  Please note our Pattie Takita will be in charge of the Toy Drive.

ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

As the Woman's Club has done for many years, we are having our Annual Holiday Toy Drive for children who are neglected, abused and undergoing difficult times. Members are being asked to bring NEW UNWRAPPED gifts, as well as gift cards, cash and checks, through November and until our Club Day luncheon on December 9. There is a drop off box outside the office.

While gifts are welcome for all ages, there is a particular need for newborns and teens.   Favorite requests are: infant toys and clothing, Fisher-Price, Playskool and similar sturdy toys, dolls (all sizes), Disney items, balls, trucks, remote control cars and batteries, sports equipment, hand-held video games and batteries. Suggestions for older children are: gift certificates to Kohl's, Target, Bobs, Old Navy, Barnes and Noble; sweatshirts, sweaters, hats, cosmetics, manicure kits.

Checks, made out to The Children's Connection, can be dropped off at the office or given to me at the November or December Club Day luncheons. Your check should contain your name, address and a reference to the Westport Woman's Club in the memo area. We also accept rolls or packages of gift wrap along with ribbons and/or bows.   The Holiday Toy Drive is held well in advance of Christmas in order for the participating agencies to have time to distribute the gifts to approximately 3,000 children in surrounding communities.

Thank you for your generosity.
 
Pattie Takita
Holiday Toy Drive Chair


Best regards,
Donna Richardson ,  donnarichardson4@yahoo.com203-354-8743  

CURIO COTTAGE  
 

As the busy holiday season approaches, remember that the Curio Cottage can fill many of your shopping needs. 

We have just stocked the shelves with some beautiful items for Thanksgiving. Whether you're looking for extra dishes, glasses, serving pieces or a decorative centerpiece for your table stop by Curio and take a look.  


Susan Loselle, seloselle@gmail.com , 203-858-5989
Suzan Murphy, murphy05@aol.com, 203-247-7726
Co-Chairs

GARDEN DEPARTMENT         

Date:    Tuesday, November 12
Time:    10:00 am
Location:  Earthplace, 10 Woodside Lane, Westport


The Garden Department has arranged a tour at Earthplace, Westport, on Tuesday, November 12, at 10:00 am.  

Come join us to see the beautiful gardens and how our Reugg Grant award has been put to use at Earthplace.

Please RSVP to Leah Scherzer.

Holiday Decorations
Boxwoods, Swags and Wreaths
Click here for order form


Vivian Rosenberg, Garden Chair, vivianrose1@gmail.com , 203-227-4419
Leah Scherzer, Co-Program Chair, Leahsart41@gmail.com203-856-6189

FOOD CLOSET



With Thanksgiving coming up in another month, we want to be sure that the WWC Food Closet is stocked with holiday supplies. To accomplish this goal, we need the following items:


-Stuffing
-Gravy
-Canned fruit (we have plenty of cranberry sauce!)
-Canned ham (available at CVS or Rite Aid)
-Chicken Helper
-Powdered milk

Please pick up one or two of these items when you are doing your family's shopping during the next few weeks. You may leave your donations in the basket outside the office anytime or bring the items to November Club Day. The Food Closet volunteers appreciate your generosity.


Wendy McKeon,  xwamx50@aol.com 203-222-0038 
Kim Reichert, kim.reichert@gmail.com, 203-227-4590

GOURMET

Date:  Tuesday, November 19
Time:  11:30 am
Place:  Bedford Hall

Gourmet Group will be meet on Tuesday November 19, at 11:30 am in Bedford Hall. Full details of the meeting will be sent by email. 

Gourmet Group members who wish to attend should RSVP by email to Lisa Allison.




Lisa Allison, liallison@optonline.net , 203-227-9563
Barbara Gladnick, bagladnick@optonline.net, 203-854-0424

LADIES WHO LUNCH


We will not be having our usual monthly luncheons in November and December, as the fourth Tuesdays come too close to Thanksgiving and Christmas.  

Instead, we will have a Festive Holiday Luncheon on Tuesday, December 10.  Please see your December Bulletin for details.
 


Bobbie Herman,  sangazure1@aol.com,  203-255-1577 

MAH JONGG

Time:  1:00 - 4:00 pm
Date:   Wednesdays
Place:  Living Room

Mah Jongg is played every Wednesday from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Emails are sent out at the beginning of each week to members who are interested in playing. If you want to be included in these weekly emails, please contact me to put your name on that list. All players are welcome, regardless of skill level and experience. You do not have to own a Mah Jongg set, but if you have one, please bring it.
You do not need to make a commitment to play each week; come whenever you are available.
Do you want to learn a new skill? Lessons for beginners, and for those who want to brush up on their skills, are given on Wednesdays, starting at 1:00 pm. Please contact me if you are interested or have questions.  
Also, I am now taking orders for the 2020 Mah Jongg cards. Standard print is $8.00; large print is $9.00. Please mail checks, payable to me, before December 20. (Friends and family members may also order cards; they don't have to be members). Cards will be mailed directly to you in April 2020. The Club just received a check for $167 from the Mah Jongg League, which represents their charitable contribution based on this past year's group order, bringing the total the Club has received over 12 years to about $1,250.

Audrey Rabinowitz, bxiteb4@aol.com ,  203-227-6010


MEMBERSHIP


On September 25,  the Westport Woman's Club hosted a New Member Reception on the side lawn of our Clubhouse.  We had a wonderful turnout and many thanks to all who helped make the event so successful.  

Welcome to our New Members!

Robin Clark, rclark@westportnational.com , 203-231-2109

WA YS & MEAN S
                     
Date:  Wednesday, November 13
Time:  10:30 am

Please mark your calendars for our upcoming events that were so successful last year:

November 16 - Sip and Savor
December 6 - Sounds for a Starry Night. 

Ideas for future events would be most welcome!  Please attend our meetings on the 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10:30 to help us plan for the Spring!


Donna Pellittieri,donnamaydolls@optonline.net 203-216-0821


The BULLETIN 
OF THE WESTPORT WOMAN'S CLUB 
44 Imperial Avenue 
Westport, CT 06880