J.C. Martin 3/27/22 J.C. Martin 3/27/22

Fighting To Save A Treasured Westport Landmark From Being Lost Forever

Westporters working to save a treasured Westport Landmark. From left to right are Tommy Febbraio, Ian Warburg, Jim Hood, and Chris Tait. And of course, Koda, our English Cream mascot!

Thousands of Westport families grew up with the Old Mill/Compo Beach treasure most recently known as Elvira Mae’s. Every few years there’s talk of tearing down this local gem and replacing it with a spec house. Two months ago, some long-time Westporters envisioned a bold community plan to purchase this 94-year-old market and preserve it forever as the last and oldest neighborhood gathering place. They intend to create a 501(c)(3) organization to designate the café as a nonprofit entity so it can focus on training and hiring people with intellectual and physical disabilities, for whom it is incredibly difficult to find meaningful employment. They are asking for your help with this important project. For more information and to donate, go to www.oldmillgrocery.com or click on the QR code. Photo By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com

J.C. Martin 3/27/22 J.C. Martin 3/27/22

Westport Answers Volodymyr Zalensky’s Calls For Rallies Worldwide To Show Support For Ukraine

The renowned President of the Ukraine called for rallies and demonstrations on Wednesday, the one-year mark of the Russian invasion of their country and several dozen Ukrainians and supporters braved the chilly weather on Saturday to heed that call and they once again gathered on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial bridge in the heart of Westport. In his nightly address on Wednesday he spoke in English saying “Come to your squares, your streets, make yourselves visible and heard,” In Westport, we heard that call. Car after car that drove by blared their horns in support and many passengers took photos of the demonstrators. In attendance was Westport artist MIggs Burroughs who's grandparents were born in the Ukraine.

Scan either QR code to donate to help the people Of Ukraine

Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Story by Lesia Vladymyrenko , Stamford

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Ukraine is a very beautiful country. Ukrainians are strong and brave, talented, smart, witty, creative, friendly, sincere, and free in spirit. I am proud of them! and I am proud to be Ukrainian!

On August 24, 1991 Ukraine was born, Ukraine is only 31, but it has strong roots that go back to great history.

All those years Ukraine cultivated its love for freedom. But now, war has fallen on my family.

Forces are trying to destroy Ukraine and its freedom. As in passed generations Ukraine faced severe trial. And my people are forced to protect themselves, they're homes and families. Which they do skillfully because we are a real family .

We united together supporting each other with our bravery and strength. Today we fight but we are not afraid that's not how we were raised we will stand.

I know Ukraine will live and everyone will live a peaceful life

I have been in America for 5 years, but my whole family and relatives stayed in Ukraine. My dearest people are involved in volunteer and military activities. My brother Head of the Charity Foundation Aid For ATO Members