Another step toward a new Long Lots Elementary School has been taken.
The town of Westport is seeking proposals for architectural designs for a replacement of the 70-year-old building. They’re looking for a construction manager for the project too.
Requests for quotes will be received until 11 a.m. on February 24. Click here for details.
The RFQ is posted even though the Board of Education has not yet determined whether to renovate, or fully replace, Long Lots.
And until that issue is resolved, Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice told the Board of Ed Monday night, he would not recommend redistricting.
That’s a hot topic in town. But — based on the Long Lots timetable, and an elementary school capacity study due next month — Scarice does not recommend redistricting until the fall of 2025.
The future of Long Lots Elementary School — whether it’s renovated or rebuilt entirely — is still up in the air. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
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Eldercare, aging and dying are topics for all ages.
This Saturday (January 28, 9 a.m. to noon, Unitarian Church meeting house), anyone with in interest in preparing for the next phase of life — for ourselves, our loved ones, and those who might care for us — is invited to share perspectives, stories and insights from Atul Gawande’s best-selling book, “Being Mortal.”
Life is short, and you may not have time to read it (spoiler alert: It’s great). No problem! Click here, for an outline and key ideas. Click here for an excellent 54-minute PBS “Frontline” special, based on Gawande’s work.
The format is a discussion, to share insights and best practices. Rev. John Morehouse will be there; death and mortality is part of his ministry.
There’s a hot breakfast to start. RSVPs are encouraged: email bethclifftucw@gmail.com, or call 203-227-7205, ext. 16. Walk-ins are welcome.
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Between the gardens and the animals, there is plenty to crow about at Wakeman Town Farm.
Then there’s Tim’s Kitchen.
The dozy, high-ceilinged space inside the farmhouse is always humming. It’s a place to meet neighbors, eat great food and learn culinary skills.
Upcoming events include a Mardi Gras celebration with chef Caroline Fey (more seats are now available); an up-close-and-personal experience with Fatto a Mano’s Pierluigi Mazzella, Connecticut Baker of the Year; chef Raquel Rivera’s springtime supper class, featuring roasted chicken and a ricotta gnocchi with spring peas; chef Robyn Herman’s engaging Italian class for kids; birthday cupcake wars parties, and adult tea parties.
Click here for a full list of classes. NOTE: Check back regularly, as new options are added often.
Pierluigi Mazzella offers a special Wakeman Town Farm baking class on March 14.
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Congratulations to Nancy Thiel. Her Weston-based Thiel Architecture + Design firm has just earned an Award for Excellence, from the American Institute of Architects’ Connecticut chapter.
The firm recently completed Eco Evolution, a sustainable store and café in South Norwalk, and is designing residential and hospitality projects throughout the tri-state area.
Nancy is developing the new Weston Town Green, and last year worked with Westport Farmers’ Market on a permanent home for them. The firm proposed a park along the Saugatuck River, a bird-watching platform, and an open-air pavilion for use by WFM and other organizations in town.
Thiel Architecture’s award-winning Brooklyn office. (Photo/Sam Sachs Morgan)
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We’re nearly at the end of January, and still no real snow. (Knock wood — a mix is possible today.)
So dogs like Bobo take advantage of the mild weather, to romp at Compo Beach.
And pose, mid-run, for “Westport … Naturally.”
(Photo/Sunil Hirani)
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And finally … following up on this coming Saturday’s Unitarian Church discussion on preparing for the next stage of life (story above): a two-fer. Here’s the Dead, talking about death.
(If you’re alive and reading this, please consider supporting “06880.” Click here — and thank you!)