Fine Art Portrait Photo Exhibit Celebrates Life with a Focus on Need February 24, 2010
Wine Evening Creates Winter Warmth January 08, 2010
Wine, Women . . . and Shoes October 28, 2009
Tour De Force: Near & Far House Tour Benefits Neighbors in Need April 19, 2009
Near & Far Aid 2009 Designer House Tour to Showcase “Celebrations by Design” March 27, 2009
Recession Challenges March 17, 2009
Addressing Current Economic Needs March 17, 2009


Wine Evening Creates Winter Warmth

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Wine Evening Creates Winter Warmth  

Westport, Jan. 8, 2010  

It was frosty outside, but really chill at the spectacular Westport home of Mar Silver, where Near & Far Aid held a wine tasting evening to kick off a new year of charitable fundraisers.  The vivacious hostess was in her element.  "I designed the house for entertaining - what I love is that every space is used," she noted, as guests warmed to the soaring open areas, framed by views of a snow dusted Zen garden, white birch grove, and swimming pool flanked by teepees.

Everyone swirled and sampled wine generously offered by attendees.  Collyer Catering provided a sumptuous buffet dinner, and Fairfield Cheese Company donated an array of fine cheese to complement the wine. The U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management, sponsored the event.  Another sponsor, Porsche of Fairfield, parked their wish list item near the front door, the 2010 Panamera, first 4-door sedan designed by Porsche.

There was a serious note to the evening, too.  Patsy Devine, President of Near & Far Aid, spoke of the commitment of this organization to help those who feel they have nowhere to turn.  She highlighted one young man whose life has been transformed from childhood homelessness to adult success, thanks to the intervention of one of the charities Near & Far Aid supports.  Patty McDermott of The U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management commented on the partnership with Near & Far Aid,  "US Trust is committed to helping Near & Far Aid meet the challenges of poverty in Fairfield county head on."

The evening was a prelude to one of the most anticipated moments of the Near & Far Aid Spring Gala at Mitchells, at least for wine connoisseurs - the auction of rare vintages.  Partygoers are required to bring bottles to donate for auction, which often produces some very rare and sought after vintages.  Selections for this year include a 1970 Chateau Palmer, 1983 and 1985 Chateau Mouton Rothschild, and a 1967 Barolo; all of which will be available for the lucky bidder at the Near & Far Spring Gala Friday March 5 at Mitchells.

Near & Far Aid is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization with no paid staff and no office space.  One hundred percent of the net proceeds of its fundraising events goes to Near & Far Aid to grant to charitable agencies serving those in need in Fairfield County.  Since 2000, Near & Far Aid has raised approximately $10 million to support critical needs through programs that address families at risk, adults in crisis, homelessness, elder care, hunger, education and job training, health services and academic and cultural activities for disadvantaged youth.