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Visits

Author, artist and puppeteer Caroll Spinney and his wife Debra visited Westview recently. Left to right: David T. Panteleakos, Westview administrator; Lucille McKay, Westview resident; and Caroll and Debra Spinney. Courtesy photo.

 

 

DAYVILLE — Author, artist and puppeteer, Caroll Spinney and his wife, Debra, joined residents, patients, employees and family members at Westview Health Care Center recently for a special viewing of the documentary, I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story. Temporarily transforming the facility’s formal dining room into a movie theater, the movie was projected upon a movie screen for the capacity crowd. 

The documentary chronicles the life of Woodstock resident, Caroll Spinney, a man who, since 1969, has lent his body, voice and heart to the two iconic Sesame Street characters: Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. Using an abundance of personal family footage and interviews with Mr. Spinney’s family, friends and coworkers, the movie beautifully captures the heartwarming story of his 47 year journey as a performer, husband and father. 

Following the Spinneys continued to delight the captivated audience with a question and answer session as well as a very special guest appearance by Oscar the Grouch. “We can’t thank Mr. Spinney and his lovely wife Deb enough for sharing their amazing story and their time with all of us here at Westview” said David T. Panteleakos, administrator. “Caroll Spinney is truly an American treasure. His performance as Big Bird and Oscar over the past 47 years continues to transcend generations and cultures around the world.” 

Caroll Spinney said, “We are thrilled to bring our story to everyone here at Westview. This event deeply resonated with us and we truly enjoyed experiencing the wonderful reactions.” “Although this marked our 23rd time watching the film, I found myself a little more emotional being surrounded by so many loving and caring people.” Mrs. Spinney added. “Caroll and I try to live our lives in constant appreciation and gratitude. As expressed in the movie:  “You have this life and every day is precious.”