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, Women . . . and Shoes

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Westport, Oct. 28, 2009 

Mitchells was incandescent at an evening get-together of Near & Far Aid organizers, aptly titled, "Wine, Women, and Shoes".  The focus was women's perpetual addictions, shoes and jewelry.  "We wanted to show appreciation for our volunteers, and make our new people feel a welcome part of the group", said Denise Colosimo, Event Chair. Mitchells, in its role as community magnet, donated 10% of all shoe or accessory purchases to Near & Fair Aid.   

That was incentive enough for women to try on dazzlers from the fall collection: Prada, Gucci, Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, Tod's, Stuart Weitzman, Dolce & Gabbana, Bettye Mueller, Giuseppe Zanotti, and the newest line, Lanvin. Mitchells shoe specialist, Ferdie, dashed about, carrying stacks of shoe boxes.  "The hot new looks this season are platforms, riding boots and wedges.  We're seeing lots of round-toe pumps and chunky heels", he noted between fittings.   

Many guests tried on jewelry from a new line created by Padma Lakshmi, currently host of Top Chef.  Crafted in 10- and 14K gold, studded with semiprecious stones, the pieces are feminine and delicate, featuring shapes drawn from nature.   

Everyone clustered around the sumptuous display of fine cheeses by Mirabelle, the popular Main Street cheese shop and caterer.  It was a night of companionship, wine (generously poured by Stew Leonard's Wines) and laughter.  

Bob Mitchell remembered talking with women, 17 years ago, about a volunteer organization whose work would strengthen the community.  "Our family's values and the women who run Near & Far Aid are quite similar.  Charitable participation-not just donation-has been important to us since my grandfather founded the company.  On the fun side, we've come to know many wonderful volunteers.  The Mitchells' team, and the Near & Far Aid team, can be proud of how long we've worked together to give back to people in our immediate area who are very much in need."  

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.