Tag Archives: AAPI Westport

Roundup: AAPI, ESPN, P&Z, WTF …

Posted on April 30, 2024 | 3 comments

AAPI Heritage Month — celebrating Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders — starts this week. AAPI Westport is ready.

Among the events:

  • Middle School Anime Night (Friday, May 3; 7 to 9:30 p.m., Toquet Hall; $10). Watch “Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods,” play trivia with prizes, and enjoy Japanese snacks and sodas. Open to all students in grades 6-8. Click here to register.
  • “Flavors of Fun: Filipino Cooking Demonstration with Denise deCastro of Dee Cuisine” (Friday, May 17; 11:30 a.m. to 1:30pm, Westport Weston Family Y; $40). Learn how to cook lumpia and pancit. Click here to register.
  • AAPI 5K run/walk (Saturday, May 18; 9 a.m., West Hartford Town Hall). Click here to register.
  • AAPI Westport Book Club discussion of “Yellowface” by RF Kuang (May 22; 6 p.m., Westport Book Shop.

Follow on Instagram: @aapiwestport.

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This is the night for StartUp Westport’s inaugural Innovator of the Year Award.

Westport’s public/private entrepreneurial partnership honors Jimmy Pitaro, CEO of ESPN. He’ll be interviewed by fellow Westporter (and ESPN host) Mike Greenberg.

Tonight’s (Tuesday) event begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance (click here), $30 at the door.

Jimmy Pitaro. (Photo/Joe Faraoni)

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Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (May 6, 7 p.m.; Zoom) includes a pre-application to preserve the existing historic building at 125 Riverside Avenue, and also build a new principal building.

During the public session, the P&Z will discuss a proposal by Longshore Hospitality for interior and exterior renovations to the Inn at Longshore.

Click here for the full agenda.

Proposed exterior renovations to the front of the Inn at Longshore.

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Westport’s coyote problem — highlighted yesterday on “06880” — caught the eye of New York’s Eyewitness News.

Channel 7 reporter Joe Torres came to town. Liz Kaner spotted his van on her street off Roseville Road, asked if he was there to do a coyote story, and told him that her dog had been attacked Wednesday night.

That was the second attack on their road in 2 weeks.

Torres also interviewed Westport Police Lieutenant Eric Woods, and Minette Nelson at Winslow Park.

Click here for the full Eyewitness News story.

Meanwhile, Liz reports: “Snickers sustained 2 abdominal wounds. One was very serious, and required immediate surgery.

“She fared well under the competent and loving care of Schulhof veterinarian Lyndsey Westerfield (who stayed with her well into the night, despite having 2 small children at home).

“Today Snickers seems to have turned the corner. Her wounds are healing nicely, and her disposition is returning back to normal (via the excitable tail wag).”

Screenshot of Liz Kaner, from Eyewitness News.

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Wakeman Town Farm makes Mother’s Day easy.

Fantastic bouquets — designed by Sarah Shaw Floral — can be ordered through noon on May 7. Pickup is at WTF on Saturday, May 11 (9 to noon). HINT: That’s the day before Mother’s Day.

The cost is $85. The look on your mother’s (or wife’s) face will be priceless.

Also at the Farm:

  • “Cooking with Herbs,” with chef Laura Weinman (May 16, 7 p.m., $100; BYOB).
  • “Make Fruit Preserves” with award-winning preserver Maureen Estony (June 2, 11 to 1 p.m., $100).
  • “Spring Cooking for Grades K-2” (May 20; June 3, 10, 17; 4:15 to 5:45 p.m.; $200).

Click here for more details, and registration information.

Say it with flowers, from Wakeman Town Farm.

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Staples’ Service League of Boys were not the only young people doing good deeds this past weekend.

On Sunday, Troop 36 gave Saugatuck Congregational Church — its chartered organization — a new flag. The previous one, which hung in front of the building, was destroyed by winter storms.

But that’s not all.

After helping out with the church service, Troop 36 members cleaned up the outdoor chapel, adjacent to Winslow Park. It was a troop Eagle project years ago.

Scouts cleared the nearby path, removed trash and debris, replenished mulch and fixed the border. They also removed benches with rotted footings, and will replace them soon.

Troop 36, near the outdoor chapel. From left: Jack Donroe, Calvin Jahansouz, Vishal Puttagunta, Dylan O’Brien, Finn Martens, Kevin O’Brien, Eagle Scout Dylan Kurpiel. Missing: Naveen Podlich.

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On May 6 (4 p.m., Staples Field), the Wrecker baseball team honors the resilience and strength of people who have triumphed over breast cancer.

The event will recognize individuals who have shown exceptional courage in their battle against breast cancer. The first pitch will be thrown by noted breast oncologist, Westport resident Dr. Richard Zelkowitz.

Attendees — who are encouraged to wear pink — will have opportunities to support the Saugatuck “SurviveOars” Rowing Program, purchase pink items, receive pink giveaways, and engage with the Staples High School baseball community.

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Sure, the temperature climbed near 80 yesterday.

But the temperature was only 48 degrees yesterday morning. And the water was even colder.

That does not deter Andy Berman, who swims nearly every morning. He was joined Monday by Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella and Matt Davis.

“It has so many health positives!” Andrew said.

Through chattering teeth.

From left: Matt Davis, Andrew Colabella, Andy Berman.

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The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival draws 400,000 visitors each year, over 10 days, for a musical and culinary all-you-can-consume buffet.

Proceeds fund civic causes (including recovery from Hurricane Katrina), and keep the spirit of the birthplace of jazz alive. Over the years, Jazz Fest expanded to include a greater variety of musicians. This year’s headliners are the Rolling Stones.

Richard Epstein learned about Jazz Fest from friends, and was hooked. The Staples High  School graduate has had a dual career — dentist and musician — since moving back to the area in 1976.

He plays bassoon in the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra, and sax with the Westport Community Band.

But his “ultimate play time” is his radio program. “Sometimes Classical” blends just about every genre of music imaginable. It airs on WPKN-FM (89.5) for 3 hours, every other Wednesday afternoon.

Epstein introduced himself to WWOZ, Jazz Fest’s official radio station, as a kindred free-form spirit. They were starting to simulcast Jazz Fest, letting other media outlets tap into their live coverage.

WPKN is now in its 4th year of simulcasting parts of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Tune in this weekend (May 3-5) for the final weekend of Jazz Fest ’24. Click here to see WPKN’s Jazz Fest programming.

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Speaking of jazz: This week’s Jazz at the Post features The Jim Royle Caribbean Jazz Connection. Leader and drummer Bryan Garbe has crossed genres of jazz and Caribbean Latin styles for years.

The Connection features Jim’s former student and steel pan player Bryan Garbe. The acclaimed percussionist grew up in Fairfield.

The band also includes John Mobilio on bass, Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall on saxes, and pianist David Childs.

There are 2 shows at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 this Thursday (May 2): 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service begins at 7. The music cover is $20 ($15 for veterans and students.)

Reservations are strongly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Jim Royle.

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Longtime Westport resident Robert McCarthy died Saturday at home, surrounded by family. He was 94.

Bob served in the Navy aboard the USS Zellars, during the Korean conflict. He owned a successful plumbing business for over 60 years, and was known for his “smarts, humor and dedication to his customers.”

He enjoyed his family, golf, the beach and his wife of 68 years Jennie’s homemade manicotti.

Bob coached baseball, and was a member of the VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, the Knights of Columbus, and the Westport Volunteer Fire Department. He also served on the Church of the Assumption Parish Council.

The Norwalk native was predeceased by his wife, sisters Jean and Mary, and brother Walter.

Bob is survived by his children Kevin (Beth) of Westport, Brian (Lena) of Fairfield, Kathy Sabitsky (Stan) of Milford, and Brennan (Jenny) of Westport;  grandchildren Justin, Sarah, Kaitlin, Josh, Matt, Nick, Zach, Jack and Charlie; great-grandchild Maeve, and numerous nieces and nephews.

His family will receive friends on Thursday (May 2, 4 to 7 p.m., Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Avenue, Norwalk). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 3, at Assumption Church. Burial with full military honors will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Connecticut Hospice or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Bob McCarthy

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The recent warm weather has brought people — and gulls — downtown.

Pamela Docters snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, by Library Riverwalk.

(Photo/Pamela Docters)

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And finally … On this day in 1975, Communist forces gained control of Saigon. The Vietnam War formally ended, with the unconditional surrender of South Vietnamese president Dương Văn Minh.

(“06880” — your hyper-local blog — relies on readers like you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Pizza, Pogue, AAPI …

Posted on May 16, 2023 | 2 comments

The Saugatuck space that housed Parker Pizza — which, like its next door neighbor Parker Mansion, closed in March — will have a new tenant soon.

It will be …

… another pizza place.

No further word on Renato’s Brick Oven is available.

Including whether it’s any relation to another Renato’s: the popular jewelry store, across town near the Southport line.

(Photo and hat tip: JD Dworkow)

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Earlier this month, David Pogue wowed a Y’s Women crowd with his talk on AI.

Next Monday (May 22, 7 p.m.), he’ll address the same subject — “Artificial Intelligence Gets Real” — for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

You don’t need to be a Y’s Man to go. Wisely, the public is invited.

A Q-and-A follows the Westport tech/media personality’s talk. Click here for more information on Pogue’s event.

David Pogue

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Westport’s Business Network International chapter invites professionals to its upcoming Visitors’ Day.

Each business category has only one member. Classifications that are open now  include printer, security systems, HVAC, photographer, travel agent, caterer, florist, event planner, credit card processing, home inspector, moving company, carpet cleaning, flooring, electrician, dentist, personal trainer and clothing/ accessories.

The event is May 25 (United Methodist Church). Open networking takes place from 7 to 7:30 a.m.; a business meeting begins at 7:30.

Pre-registration is required; email cara.mocarski@welcomewagon.com. Click here for more information.

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The AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) Westport Book Club’s next meeting is May 31 (7 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture.

They’ll discuss “From A Whisper to a Rallying Cry: The Killing of Vincent Chin and the Trial that Galvanized the Asian American Movement” by Paula Yoo. a young adult novel.

AAPI also hosts a happy hour at MoCA this Thursday (May 18, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.).

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The Staples High School sailing team made history last weekend.

For the first time ever, 6 members competed in Boston for the New England Schools Sailing Association Fleet Racing Championships’ O’Day Trophy.

The Wreckers finished 12th overall, in a field dominated by private and boarding schools (and beat Darien High by 10 points).

They finish the season with the Fairfield County Sailing League tomorrow, the state regatta this weekend, and the NESSA girls championships the weekend after.

Staples sailing team coach Gavin Meese (far right) with, from left: Camryn Harris, co-captain Witt Lindau, Tucker Peters, Caitlyn Schwartz, Claire Harris and co-captain Alan Becker.

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Organ great Brian Charette makes his first appearance at Jazz at the Post this Thursday (May 18; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover).

He’s joined by longtimefriend and mentor Bob Devos, plus drummer Jordan Young and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Jazz at the Post shows have been selling out. Email JazzatthePost@gmail.com for reservations; include the number of people, which show, and your cell phone.

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Cactus in Westport?

Who knew?

Johanna Keyser Rossi does. She spotted these plants — today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — near the 1 Gorham Island office building, off Parker Hardin Plaza. They’re on the side facing the river.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the rare (for Westport) plant above:

(From cactus to new pizzerias: If it happens in Westport, you’ll read about it on “06880.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: DATTCO Buses, Capt. Nash’s House, AAPI Month …

Posted on April 30, 2023 | 9 comments

Westport’s school buses may look different next fall.

They’ll still be yellow. But “Dattco” may not be on the sides.

The New Britain-based company’s contract is up for renewal this year. When the Board of Education meets Monday (May 1, 7 p.m., Staples High School), Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice will recommend that the 5-year contract beginning July 1 be awarded to First Student. They’re a national company, with a strong presence in this area.

They were the only 2 providers to bid. Scarice and Westport Public Schools CFO Elio Longo found that:

  • Over 5 years, the district will save $126,011 for the base transportation services provided by First Student.
  • Dattco offered $6 million in coverage for sexual misconduct insurance, but the RFP required $11 million. First Student provided the required amount.
  • Dattco failed to submit a letter from its insurance carrier stating that the minimal insurance limits required in the RFP will be met.
  • Dattco gave a “0” credit for use of a bus lot provided by the district. First Student provided a credit of $1,529,031 over 5 years for use of the lot.

The Board of Ed will have a busy agenda, beyond the bus contract. They’ll also discuss the Staples High School roof project, an equity action plan, and policies on weighted grading and calculation of grade point averages, credit for online courses, graduating requirements, and enrollment in advanced courses and programs.

For full details on the bus contract and other agenda items, click here.

A familiar sight. (Photo/Joyce Joiner)

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“06880” doesn’t usually promote real estate open houses.

But we also don’t usually get a chance to see a 1740 home.

18 West Parish Road is the house; today (Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.) is the date.

18 West Parish Road

Built nearly 300 years ago by Captain Thomas Nash for Zachariah Burr — Aaron’s brother — it was an inn during the Revolutionary War.

It’s filled with history. For instance, the Delft blue tile fireplace is original

And — allegedly — Captain Nash galloped up the steep, original stairs on his horse, as he chased his wife in anger.

Captain Nash’s stairs.

In the 1930s another famous owner — Edward T. Bedford — maintained stables and a trotting track just north of the residence.

A 20th century bonus: The kitchen in the attached cottage was a bomb shelter in the 1950s.

Toni Horton Mickiewicz (Staples High School class of 1978) is the realtor.

It sounds like an extremely interesting home. But if you plan to buy it to tear it down: Please, please, PLEASE: Find yourself another open house to go to. (Hat tip: Pam Docters)

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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month begins tomorrow.

AAPI Westport celebrates with a variety of events. They include:

The Story and Legacy of Vincent and Lily Chin (May 1-31, New Canaan Library). Learn more about Vincent and Lily Chin. His racially motivated murder more than 40 years ago galvanized the Asian American community.

Healing Asian Hate Since Vincent Chin (May 8, 6:30 p.m., New Canaan Library):  Panel discussion, including Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, and Stamford DEI officer Carmen Hughes.  Click here for more information. and to register.

AAPI Westport Book Club reads “From a Whisper to a Rallying Cry: the Killing of Vincent Chin and the Trial that Galvanized the Asian American Movement,” by Paula Yoo.” This young adult book is suggested for ages 13 and up. Book discussion date and location TBD.

Meet children’s book author Karina Yan Glaser (May 13, 1 to 3 p.m., Westport Library). She will discuss “What Do You Need to be a Writer?,” and talk about how being an Asian American author has influenced her work. A book signing follows. This is an all ages event; best for grades 1-6. Click here for more information.

AAPI Happy Hour at MoCA (May 18, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.).

To learn more about AAPI Westport, click on the video below.

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Pamela Turnure Timmins — Jacqueline Kennedy press secretary (and the first ever hired by a first lady), and who may or may not have had an affair with her husband, President Kennedy — died Tuesday in Colorado. She was 85, and had  lung cancer.

What makes her death “06880”-worthy is that she graduated in the mid-1950s from the Bolton School for girls in Westport.

Her Washington Post obituary does not explain what she was doing in this area as a teenager. But she certainly led an interesting life. (Hat tip: Allen Siegert)

Pamela Turnure Timmins

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The Connecticut Appalachian Mountain Club brings one of their most popular speakers to Saugatuck Congregational Church.

David Pressler will discuss “Exploring the Californian Anza — Borrego Desert and Beyond.” The event is May 9.

From snow-covered landscapes, high mountains, lakes and the Salton Sea, to dry desert vistas and unusual lava-formed rock landscapes (that were the “American West” of movies from the 1930s to the ’50s) — home once to dinosaurs, mammoths, giant turtles and other animals — it’s a vast, beautiful place.

Wine, dinner and dessert begins at 6:15 p.m. Pressler’s presentation is at 7:30. The cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members (pay at the door). For more information, email easasso7@icloud.com.

California’s Borrego Desert. (Photo/David Pressler)

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Westport’s ospreys continue to fascinate us — and there are more than the most famous (and visible) pair, at Fresh Market.

Daniel Johnson captured (on film) one of the Burying Hill Beach pair. It’s a natural for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Daniel Johnson)

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And finally … in honor of the soon-to-come (and likely little-mourned) end of the DATTCO era:

(School buses? Ospreys? Jackie Kennedy’s press secretary? If there’s a Westport connection, “06880” covers it. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, History, Looking back, Politics, Real estate

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Roundup: Lunar New Year, EMT Training, Dick Rauh’s Botany …

Posted on January 27, 2023 | 1 comment

What’s a Lunar New Year without a celebration?

On Tuesday, AAPI Westport founders Patra Kanchanagom, Rosie Jon and Sarin Cheung headed to Town Hall. They brought popular treats.

Selectwomen Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Candi Savin, and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, joined them. The AAPI members shared new year traditions, and showed the work of middle school Mandarin classes. Each year, they decorate schools with words signifying good future, prosperity, peace and protection.   

農曆新年快樂!

AAPI representatives and town officials celebrate the Lunar New Year at Town Hall.

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Have you always wanted to be an EMT?

Act now!

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services’ spring class begins February 28. It runs through June.

For more information, click here or email training@westportems.org.

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Upcoming at the Westport Library:

98-year-old artist Dick Rauh talks about his current (and remarkable) exhibit, “A Botanical Retrospective.” A reception follows. (Sunday, January 29, 2 to 4 p.m., Trefz Forum.)

“Musical Notes: Selections from the Westport Public Art Collections Reception” is set for Tuesday (January 31, 6:30 to 8 p.m.). The Staples High School Jazz Combo performs, and light snacks will be served.

Dick Rauh, and his art.

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Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup gave an incorrect time for this Sunday’s “medical kit maker” event at The Readiness Collective, in Norwalk’s SoNo Collection. The correct time is 4 to 6 p.m.

Run by Staples High School graduates Jesse and Sefra Levine — who since 2003 have been helping people around the globe survive disasters.

The goal this Sunday is to build 600 med kits, to be hand delivered next month to front-line units.

Everyone is welcome. Questions? Email jesse@tactivate.com.

Jesse and Sefra Levin.

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On Saturday, the Fairfield County Story Lab (21 Charles Street, 2 to 4 p.m.) welcomes Sandi Shelton (aka Maddie Dawson) to celebrate her latest novel, “Snap Out of It!” Everyone — Lab member and others — is invited to the reading, signing and snacking.

The Fairfield County Story Lab is a shared workspace for creatives. To reserve a spot, email info@fcstorylab.com.


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Darwin Day is an international event. Proceeds from dinners around the US support the National Center for Science Education.

Locally, the 15th annual Darwin Day Dinner is set for February 11 (The Inn at Longshore; also Zoom).

It’s both a party (cocktail hour, dinner), a science quiz (with prizes), and a lecture.

“Concurrent Infections” is the topic of the presentation by Dr. Vanessa Ezenwa, professor and researcher at Yale’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Her research focuses on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in wild animal populations.

High school and college students passionate about science join the celebration (and help their tables with the Science Quiz). Their tickets are covered by attendees and benefactors.  

Click here for tickets and more information. Questions? Email jlevin6@zoho.com, or call 646-221-9134.

Dr. Vanessa Ezenwa

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features the sight just outside Lauri Weiser’s Lansdowne condo window:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … in honor of Dick Rauh’s fantastic botanical art exhibit, at the Westport Library (story above):

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Roundup: Ramadan, Ignazio’s, Westport Inn …

Posted on May 14, 2022 | 2 comments

On Thursday Adil Kassam, and Mehnaz and Atif Bhanjee — representatives of the Ismaili Muslim community — presented 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, and the Westport Police and Fire Departments with gifts of appreciation.

During the holy month of Ramadan, it’s traditional to visit municipal offices, to express thanks and appreciation for the valuable contributions and services they provide.

Town officials, in turn, expressed gratitude for the Muslim community’s thanks.

Town officials and Ismaili Muslim community representatives, on Thursday.

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Two Westport pizza restaurants are looking for new owners.

Ignazio’s — which after many delays opened in November 2019, just 4 months before COVID struck — is one.

A description on BizBuySell reads: “Fantastic opportunity to take over a well executed and furnished Pizza restaurant. Casual and contemporary interior with a wood fired Pizza oven as the center piece makes for a great setting. Keep the existing, highly acclaimed concept….

“Capitalize on this highly trafficked corridor on the Post Road E. in Westport with great visibility, easy access and a parking lot that can accompany 30+ cars. Indoor seating capacity of 60 plus outdoor seating.

“Seller will stay on to train incoming buyer on all operations and recipes. Add a driver(s) to your staff to capitalize on delivery. Target marketing and added delivery will definitely bolster the bottom line.”

The asking price is $275,000. Rent is $8,000 a month. Ignazio’s lease runs through 2028.

The other restaurant is Golden Pizza, in the Westfair strip mall. Less information is available; the price for this business is $85,000. Click here for details. (Hat tip: Tony Litman)

Ignazio’s Pizza.

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The Westport Inn renovation continues.

On Tuesday, May 24 (7:30 p.m.; Zoom link), the Architectural Review Board will review the proposed transformation of the long-closed hotel, from 117 rooms to 41 hotel rooms, and 10 apartments.

According to the application, the front of the building would be demolished to create better parking, circulation, landscaping, and a new addition to the west side.

The Westport Inn,

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Opening night at the Levitt Pavilion opens with Fleetwood Mac.

Well, with Tusk, anyway — the ultimate Fleetwood Mac tribute band.

The Sunday, June 12 show kicks off a season of over 50 nights of free entertainment. The Tusk show is free too.

Free tickets will be available to Levitt Pavilion members today (Saturday) at noon. Public access begins tomorrow (Sunday) at noon. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Tusk

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For those who missed the Westport Library “#StopAsianHate: One Year Later” program last week, video links are available.

Click here or below for part 1 of the documentary “We Need to Talk About Anti-Asian Hate.

Click here for the panel discussion that followed.

Up next: a Remarkable Theater screening of “Everything Everywhere All at Once” (May 19, 8 p.m.). A short film about AAPI Westport will be shown before the feature. Click here for tickets.

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” is “Designing Biodiversity: Pollinator Habitat Creation, Connectivity, and Research at the Aspetuck Haskins Preserve.”

Evan Abramson leads the session this Friday (May 20, noon to 1:15 p.m.). He’ll discuss current research at ALT’s Haskins Preserve in Westport, to improve the landscape for at-risk pollinators.

Participants will receive a PDF of the Pollinator Toolkit to use on their own properties. Click here to register.

Haskins Preserve, a hidden Westport gem.

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Cheese fries and Froot Loops may not be on the menu at any Westport restaurant. But it’s the name of a one-man show at Fairfield Theater Company May 23 (8 p.m. — free!).

Westporter Mark Graham is directing Chris Fuller’s production, getting ready for Off-Broadway. The star is the son of noted Weston author Elizabeth Fuller, and grew up there.

It is described as “a true, moving and humorous story of a professional golfer’s struggle with bipolar disorder, and his unexpected journey to enlightenment.” Click the teaser below:

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Janette Kinnally sends this obituary for her mother, Janet Kinnally, who died last week at 80.

“She was a loving, kind soul that cared deeply about her family and friendships. I don’t think I ever met a person who did not remember her with great affection and fondness.

“She grew up in London, during the war, and her family of 5 girls was displaced. She lived in a convent for 5 years. When she returned back home, her father suddenly passed away when she was 15. She needed to make money and worked in many jobs, including as an usherette. She met the Beatles. She worked in England until she moved to the States to help her sister, who had moved to Connecticut.

“While on a work visa, she met my father at an insurance company at the age of 23. It was love at first sight for my father. They dated for several weeks until she told him she had to go back to England. My father wrote and said he would like to visit. He went to England, but bought 2 tickets back to the States. He asked her to move back and stay with his family.

“They got married in 1967. They had a true love story. The ones you read about in books, that you wish you had; that was their love and affection for each other. They held hands and walked every day at the beach or her favorite place, Sherwood Island, until my mom could no longer walk a few months ago. They were married for 55 years. She was my dad’s one true love.

“My mom and dad moved to Westport in 1967 and gave birth to me in 1969, her one and only child. We had a special bond. She said I taught her what true unconditional love was. I understand what she means, now that I have 2 boys (ages 16 and 11) of my own. She loved her two grandchildren, Mikhail and Andrew, more than anything.

“My mom was also a lifelong health and wellness pioneer. She sought out Eastern and holistic healing modalities throughout her life. She worked for a chiropractor, a naturopathic doctor and as a caregiver for end-of-life patients. She loved nature, gardens, the ocean and animals, and was a dog walker. She loved helping others. She was truly an amazing woman who inspired me daily.

“My mom and dad enjoyed traveling around the world. Every year they met up with her sister and brother-in-law to travel to a different destination around the globe. They had many stories to share of their adventures and the amazing people they met around the world.

“I moved back to Westport  in 2012 with my husband Andrey and my two boys, wanting to be close to my parents as my mom’s health declined from dementia/Alzheimer’s. We lived together until the end of her life.

“I feel grateful that we had the last 10 years together, so she could spend time with me and my children. We have many special memories together, but the ones I remember most are singing at the dinner table and afterwards dancing to the music from the ’50s and ’60s, or doing karaoke at our house during the holidays with our extended family.

“My mom will be greatly missed by our family every day, but her love and her life lessons and generosity of spirit will live on in us forever!

“Please make donations in her honor to the Westport Senior Center or alz.org, an organization providing support, care and research for Alzheimer’s.”

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A memorial service and reception to celebrate the life of Joel Hallas is set for Saturday, May 21 (2 p.m., the Memorial Garden of Saugatuck Congregational Church). A reception will follow also in the garden.

Joel Hallas died in November.

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Every May, hundreds of turtles from the Saugatuck River collect on the low tide island south of the Levitt Pavilion.

It started yesterday. Soon, there will be a lot more.

Tom Feeley sent today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, taken from the west bank. That’s Grace Salmon Park in the background.

(Photo/Tom Feeley)

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And finally … if you’re wondering where Tusk — the Fleetwood Mac band that opens the Levitt Pavilion season next month (story above) got its name — click below.

 

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Roundup: Best Music Community, Dog Fest, Cajal Academy …

Posted on May 10, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Best Music Community, Dog Fest, Cajal Academy …

How good a community for music is Westport?

One of the best.

That’s not “06880” talking. It’s the NAMM Foundation. They just named us one of their “Best Communities for Music Education.”

For the 10th year in a row.

Th honor comes for our public schools’ efforts to provide music access and education to all students. The application process included detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instructional time, facilities, music program support, and community programs.

Westport’s Music Department has benefited from partnerships with organizations like the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion, PTA Cultural Arts, WestPAC and Westport Arts Advisory Committee.

Staples High School’s Candlelight Concert — involving hundreds of singers, and orchestra and band members — is one culmination of music programs at every school, and every level. (Photo/Danielle Dobin)

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The Asian American Pacific Island community — and allies — celebrate AAPI Heritage Month today (Tuesday, May 10), with a cash bar at MoCA Westport (19 Newtown Turnpike, 5 to 7 p.m.).

Mecha-Uma will be there with a food truck too. All are welcome!

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The Dog Festival returns to Winslow Park this Sunday (May 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for its 6th run.

The event includes fun competitions (best tail wagger, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds, dog that most looks like its owner), demonstrations, Police K-9 presentations, an obstacle course, kids activities, information booths, food trucks and more.

Also on tap: over 60 pet-related vendors, caricaturists and giveaways.

Parking is available at the Westport Country Playhouse, and other nearby lots. The festival entrance fee is $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4. Proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations.

Dog owners can register for the competitions online or at the festival. To register for the competitions and for more information, click here.

The Dog Fest is sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, in association with TAILS.

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Yesterday’s “06880” lead story noted that Cajal Academy — a new school based on the latest neuroscientific research, for gifted students with special education needs — was going before the Planning & Zoning Commission last night.

In a unanimous vote, the board approved the application for 25 Sylvan Road South.

Stony Brook runs next to the 25 Sylvan Road South building.

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Sunday’s pro-choice rally was sponsored by DefenDemocracy.

This Saturday (May 14, 11 am to 1 p.m.), Planned Parenthood plans an event. It too is set for the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen downtown bridge.

Click here for details.

A sign held during Sunday’s pro-choice rally. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Among the winners of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County’s Daniel E. Offutt III Arts & Culture Empowerment Awards: William Felton, former chair of the Westport Arts Center who led a long effort to find, secure and improve its new home as MoCA Westport, on Newtown Turnpike.

Honored posthumously: Alexandra Korry. The Westporter was a trailblazing lawyer, educator and civil rights advocate, and the guiding spirit behind converting a 1935 Norwalk church into a space to enhance educational opportunities for underserved students, promote underrepresented local artists, and provide a welcoming space to enjoy art and music. The Norwalk Art Space opened last June, just a few months after she died.

An awards breakfast is set for the Shore & Country Club in Norwalk on June 15, (7:30 a.m.). Click here for tickets. 

Norwalk students flock to the Art Space.

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Do “Cocktails & Clams” go together?

Sure! That’s the name of Earthplace and Harbor Watch’s fundraiser, set for Copps Island Oysters in Norwalk on June 11 (5 to 7 p.m.). There’s an unlimited raw bar, hors d’oeuvres from Harbor Harvest, and wine and beer from Black Bear — plus a silent auction, live music, and very cool views.

Click here for tickets.

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Mother Nature surprises us in many ways. This little flower blooms unexpectedly, but beautifully. Spring has sprung, here in “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

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And finally … Spinal Tap was a fake band. But Ric Parnell was a real drummer.

He was perfect for the perfectly played satirical 1984 film, “This is Spinal Tap.” He had the looks, the chops, and he was in on the joke.

Including the fact that, somehow, Spinal Tap’s drummers kept dying in bizarre ways. He himself (as Mick Shrimpton) spontaneously combusted on stage. When the fake band went out on tour in the 1990s — life imitating art — Parnell was introduced as Mick’s twin brother Rick.

Ric Parnell died this month in Missouli, Montana, of organ failure. He was 70.

But Spinal Tap lives on. Play the video below loud — all the way to 11! (Click here for a full obituary.)

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Roundup: Transit $$, Farmers’ Market, The Universe …

Posted on May 3, 2022 | 6 comments

Last night, the Representative Town Meeting voted 30-1 to restore $133,000 the Board of Finance had cut, to Wheels2U Westport’s 2022-23 budget.

Wheels2U Westport, is the Westport Transit District’s on-demand, group ride shuttle service. It takes riders from their door to the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train station platforms, and from the stations to their jobs and other places in Westport.

The restoration will keep Wheels2U operating through June 30, 2023.

Peter Gold, Westport Transit District director (and an RTM member), said he and his colleagues received over 200 letters from “all segments of Westport’s population” in support of restoring the funds.

For more information about Wheels2U, click here. For more information about the Westport Transit District’s services for the elderly and people with disabilities, click here,

A Wheels2U bus.

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If you’re starved for good news, listen up: The Westport Farmers’ Market returns to the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Thursday, May 12.

Favorite farmers return, including Fort Hill, Riverbank, Ox Hollow, Calf + Clover Creamery, Beaver Brook, Herbal Deva, Muddy Feet Flower Farm, Two Guys from Woodbridge, Bee Love Project, Horseshoe, Deeply Rooted, Popp’s, Rose’s Berry, Seacoast Mushroom, Lost Ruby and Woodland. There are a few surprises too, says director Lori Cochran-Dougall.

Prepared food vendors include fresh faces alongside those you have come to rely on for your weekly shopping and entertaining needs, including Boxcar Cantina, NitNoi Provisions, Farmers and Cooks, Simply Local, Herbaceous Catering, Badass Bagels and Parlor Pizza, among others.

After 2 years, dining returns 🙂 . Music again fills the air , kids’ activities take center stage, and chef and other demonstrations are back as well

A 10 a.m. mindful opening will be led by Pause + Purpose. A toast follows at noon, with Cross Culture Kombucha.

The market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday, through November 10. For more information, including a full list of vendors and programs, click here.  find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, too!

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What a sweet way to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month!

1st Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker presented the town’s official proclamation on Sunday, before an excited group of Asian American and Pacific Islander Westport families — at Saugatuck Sweets.

2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein and RTM member Sal Liccione joined in.

To celebrate the month, Saugatuck Sweets is lighting their Westport and Fairfield stores yellow.

Happy AAPI Heritage Month at Saugatuck Sweets!

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Staples High School’s AWARE Club is not only aware of the world.

They’re doing something to help.

The acronym stands for Assisting Women through Actions, Resources & Education. It’s affiliated with local and national AWARE organizations.

The teenagers are supporting refugees their age from Ukraine and Afghanistan, who will arrive in Connecticut this summer. They’re collecting new beach towels and water bottles, so their peers can have a bit of enjoyment.

The towels and bottles can be dropped off from now through May 11. There’s a bin by the front door at 14 High Point Road (off Long Lots).

Teens who would like to join Staples’ AWARE Club — or volunteer at the “Tapas & Twilight” May 14 AWARE fundraiser, to benefit the Women’s Mentoring Network — should email info@awarect.org.

 

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The Martin Luther King Day presentation by noted author Heather McGhee — postponed from January — has been rescheduled. It’s now set for May 18 (7 p.m., Westport Library).

Her book “The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together,” spent 10 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and was longlisted for the National Book Award. Her 2020 TED talk “Racism Has a Cost for Everyone” reached 1 million views in just 2 months.

The MLK Day program also includes a recital by the Bridgeport Boys Choir, and a dance by the Regional Center for the Arts.

Click here to register for the free program in the Library’s Trefz Forum, or via livestream, and to purchase a copy of “The Sum of Us.”

The event is sponsored by the Westport Library, Westport Country Playhouse, TEAM Westport, Westport/Weston Interfaith Council, and Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy.

Dr. Heather McGhee

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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race returns for its 13th running on July 9. The location is new: Jesup Green.

On Sunday, the Rotarians tried out their new design. The Westport Fire Department provided the water; AJ Penna donated the front loader, to dump the ducks. In case you missed it:

The test will help the event run smoothly. Meanwhile, tickets are already on sale from any Sunrise Rotarian or online. $10,000 in prizes will be awarded — and all proceeds go to charity.

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The Housatonic Museum of Art is out of this world.

Actually, it’s just a few minutes away in Bridgeport. But they’re hosting :How Beautiful, The Universe …” — a free exhibition of 20 astrophotography prints — in association with the Westport Astronomical Society.

The Museum is on the 3rd floor of Beacon Hall. It’s open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (until 7 p.m. on Thursday).

Next Monday (May 9, 7 p.m.) there’s a special viewing and talk on the art and science of astrophotography. Right after, there’s guided use of telescopes and moon viewing in the Housatonic Community College courtyard.

Families are welcome. To reserve a seat, click here.

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Thursday is forecast to be beautiful. Which means it’s perfect for a drive-in movie.

The Remarkable Theater screens “The Hangover” with Bradley Cooper, at the Imperial Avenue lot. Tailgating begins a half-hour earlier than usual, at 6:30 p.m.; the film is at 8.

The next day (Friday, May 6) is Family Night: “Dumbo.” The length — 1 hour, 4 minutes — is perfect for young kids.

Saturday (May 7) is Mothers Day Eve. Celebrate with “Mermaids.” starring Cher and Winona Ryder — the cult mother-daughter classic.

Click here for tickets and more information.

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June is LGBTQ Pride Month. June 3 is the day it will be celebrated in Westport schools.

Westport Pride — the townwide organization — is offering “Don’t Hide Your Pride” shirts for the month, and the day. The ones with the WPS logo are fundraisers for the  fundraise for the Westport Public Schools Pride Coalition, which includes Staples High, and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools.

Click here to order. The deadline is May 10. Shirts can be picked up at Nice Threads in Westport on June 1.

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Nashville trio South for Winter headlines the Unitarian Church’s Voices Café this Saturday (May 7, 8 p.m., in-person and livestream).

South for Winter blends acoustic duets with folk and bluesy ballads, combining cello, guitar, mandolin and harmonies in what’s been called “a genre-bending ‘impeccable sound.'”

Voices Café and South for Winter share a commitment to social justice. A portion of the concert proceeds benefit community organizations under the Unitarian Church in Westport’s social justice programs, including anti-racism, identity and equity, immigration and refugee efforts, and projects serving under-resourced communities.

Groups of 4 or more can reserve table space. General admission is $25 per person; livestream tickets are also available. For more information and tickets, click here.

South for Winter

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Nature can be brutal. This crab learned that the hard way the other day at Compo Beach. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” food-chain photo comes courtesy of Nancy Lally, who saw similar scenes all along the shore.

(Photo/Nancy Lally)

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And finally … Naomi Judd — with Wynonna, the older half of the famed mother-daughter country music duo the Judds — died Saturday hear Nashville. She was 76.

Naomi’s other daughter, actress Ashley Judd, said, “We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness.”

The Judds had 14 Number 1 hits. They racked up 9 Country Music Association Awards. and 5 Grammys. Click here for a full obituary.

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Westport Welcomes AAPI Heritage Month

Posted on April 28, 2022 | Comments Off on Westport Welcomes AAPI Heritage Month

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month begins Sunday — and AAPI Westport is ready.

With a full slate of activities, the group invites all residents to learn, connect and celebrate together.

  • Kickoff AAPI Heritage Month at Saugatuck Sweets on Monday, May 2 (4:30-6pm). Get an ice cream cone discount, and hear First Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s official proclamation.
  • Join the discussion: #StopAsianHate: One Year Later (Wednesday, May 4, 6 p.m., Westport Library). The film We Need to Talk About Anti-Asian Hate will be shown. NBC News correspondent Vicky Nguyen will moderate a discussion with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, Organization of Chinese Americans of Fairfield County president Miriam Yeung, #IAmNotAVirus founder Mike Keo, and AAPI Westport co-founder Patra Kanchanagom.  Click here to register.

Vicky Nguyen

  • Enjoy performances and food at the AAPI Festival (Westport Weston Family Y, Saturday, May 7, 2 to 4 p.m).  Mecha-Uma will sell Japanese food. Admission is free; register click here to register.
  • Cocktails, conversation and fellowship are on tap at the AAPI & Allies Happy Hour (MoCA Westport, May 10, 5 to 7 p.m.).
  • Middle and high school students are invited to an interactive workshop about AAPI History: Fighting Anti-Asian Hate with Immigrant History Initiative (May 14, Toquet Hall, 4 to 6 p.m.). Admission is free; pizza provided. Click here to register.
  • To experience the multiverse and see Michelle Yeo, watch  Everything Everywhere All at Once (May 19, Remarkable Theater, 8 p.m.). A short film about AAPI Westport will be shown too. Click here for tickets.

Fore more information click here. Sign up on Instagram (@aapiwestport) for updates.

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Roundup: JoyRide For Ukraine, AAPI T-Shirts. Pickleball …

Posted on April 5, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: JoyRide For Ukraine, AAPI T-Shirts. Pickleball …

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JoyRide — the very community-minded cycling studio — teams up with WestportMoms to host a “Ride for Ukraine” fundraiser April 13 (6 p.m., 1200 Post Road East).

Five popular teachers will team up. DJ Mo will spin tunes. A minimum $25 donation is requested; proceeds go to Americares.

Click here to purchase a free class credit. Choose your bike for the April 13, 6 p.m. class. Then bring your donation the day of the ride.

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May is AAPI Heritage Month.

To get ready, AAPI Westport — our great local Asian American/Pacific Islander group — is selling t-shirts.

“Love comes in all languages,” the organization says. To prove it, the word “love” is spelled out in a variety of languages, around a heart. Click here to order.

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Congratulations to Drew Douglas and Wendy Ford!

They beat Lauren Festa and Patti Brill in the 2-out-of-3 finals of Westport Parks & Recreation’s 1st-ever pickleball tournament.

Sixteen teams competed in the single elimination event, held Sunday at Bedford Middle School. Don Christopher ran the event.

Wendy Ford and Drew Douglas, pickleball champs.

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Real-world issues — the supply chain and labor shortages — have forced Westport Country Playhouse to cancel the first preview performance of its first 2022 production, “Next to Normal.”

The pop/rock musical was set to begin tonight. Previews now run tomorrow (Wednesday through Friday, April 6 to 8). Opening night remains Saturday, April 9.

“Next to Normal” is a story about a family’s loss and endurance. The lives of what seems to be a typical suburban American family are anything but ordinary, as the mother struggles with mental illness. The musical presents the family’s story with love, compassion and spirit.

For more information and tickets, click here, or call 203-227-4177.

The Westport Country Playhouse 2022 season begins with “Next to Normal.”

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We’ve featured plenty of birds in our “Westport … Naturally” series. But this is our first mockingbird.

He (or she) sat recently on a gray Compo Beach fence, on an equally gray day. We have no idea who he (or she) was mocking.

(Photo/Jo Kirsch)

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And finally … in 1976, CB radios were all the rage. All of America, it seemed, communicated from car to car like truckers.

C.W. McCall — in reality Bill Fries, an Omaha advertising executive — picked up on the craze with an unlikely #1 song, “Convoy.”

Fries died last week in Colorado, at 93. Click here to read his full obituary. Click below to hear what the country was listening to, in that bizarre bicentennial year.

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Roundup: State Of The Town, Cheesecake, Bagels …

Posted on January 25, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: State Of The Town, Cheesecake, Bagels …

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We have the State of the Union speech, and the clumsily named State of the State speech.

But what about Westport?

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein address the “State of the Town” on Sunday, February 6 (2 p.m., Westport Library).

The pair will review accomplishments during the past year, and preview some upcoming initiatives. A question and answer session will follow, led by RTM moderator Jeffrey Wieser.

Questions may be emailed before and during the State of the Town to WestportSOTT@gmail.com.

The event will be livestreamed on www.westportct.gov, and broadcast on public access channels 79 (Optimum) and 6020 (Frontier). Click here to register for in-person attendance or a Zoom link. The event is co-sponsored by Westport Sunrise Rotary and the Westport Rotary Club.

 

What’s the state of our town? Find out on February 6. (Photo/JC Martin)

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Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist — and 1991 Staples High School graduate — Lynsey Addario spent nearly 3 years photographing Marieke Vervoort as she prepared to die. The Belgian woman — a Paralympics gold medalist as a wheelchair sprinter — suffered from a painful degenerative muscular disease.

Under Belgian law, she chose to end her life. Addario’s 2019 New York Times story was raw, intimate and powerful. She also wrote about what the reporting and photography of that story meant to her, personally.

Yesterday, the Times released a podcast of that story. Addario revisits that story, and all its emotions, in a riveting episode. Click here to access it. (Hat tip: John Hartwell)

In her final hours, Marieke Vervoort embraces her parents. (Photo/ copyright Lynsey Addario for New York Times)

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The Joggers Club Jr. is back for a 2nd season of fun.

Youngsters in kindergarten through 8th grade can train with accomplished athletes, including speed and strength coaches.

It “runs” (ho ho) Sundays (2 to 3:15 p.m.), from April 3 to May 22, at the Staples High School track. The cost is $49 for Joggers Club members, $99 for non-members.

The camp is open to only 35 runners, and sold out last year. To join, Venmo @TheJoggersClub.ct.

Registration opens this Sunday (January 30, 6 a.m.). Click here, then complete the waiver under the “Members” section. Once that is complete, email the name and age of the registration to TheJoggersClub@gmail.com. Confirmation will be sent within a day.

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Speaking of jogging: It’s a good way to work off any extra pounds from The Cheesecake Collection.

Westporter Anthoula Pantzos now makes beautiful, custom — and superb — cheesecakes. She grew up around the desserts — including at her family’s Greek restaurant in Stamford — and her husband (a chef) makes them too.

They come in Classic, Trendy and Seasonal varieties. Customers can also build their own. Pantzos offers 8-inch and 10-inch cheesecakes, plus mini-cakes, cheesecake bars, and special items for Valentine’s Day. Click here for the website.

Pick-up is available with 2 days’ notice. Free delivery is available on Saturdays, within a 10-mile radius of Westport.

Click here for the full story on CTBites. (Hat tip: Christine Meiers Schatz)

Anthoula Pantzos, with one of her cheesecakes. (PHoto courtesy of CTBites.com)

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Speaking of food: A Westport bagel maker has made the New York Post‘s list of “the most sought-after pastries at NYC’s best bakeries.” The paper says:

“Putting it bluntly, New Yorkers are begging for these bagels. Popup Bagels, a subscription-based bakery with roots in Westport, Connecticut, won the vaunted title of best bagel at the Brooklyn BagelFest last October.

“Owner Adam Goldberg, 47, told The Post that his bagels’ ‘fun collaborations and freshness’ make them real winners. His recent ‘awesome flavors’ range from dill pickle and caramelized onion to Utz Cheese Ball powder and Mike’s Hot Honey.”

Adam Goldberg with his Brooklyn Bagelfest award.

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As of this week, the FCIAC is allowing non-parent fans back into winter high school sports events.

The Staples gym was packed last night, for the first time in 2 years. Students from the home team and Wilton were equally raucous in support of their squad, 2 of the top in the league. The Warriors prevailed 50-47 in overtime.

The 2021-22 Staples High School boys basketball team.

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The link provided by AAPI Westport for the February 5 Lunar New Year celebration (Westport Weston Family YMCA, 1 p.m.) was broken. Registration is requested, but not required. Click here for the correct link.

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Dale Eyerly Colson — a Westport resident for over 60 years, and a 1963 Staples High School graduate — died last week in Pittsboro, North Carolina. She was 76.

While studying sociology and economics at Salem College in Winston-Salem, she met West Point Cadet Robert Colson on a blind date before the Army-Navy football game. In June of 1967, they both graduated college and were married — all in the same week.

During 54 years of marriage they lived in 7 states, courtesy of the US Army. They were apart only while Robert served in Vietnam.

When he left the Army in 1976 they returned to Connecticut. Dale joined Travelstar, a full-service travel agency started by her mother. She was influential in the industry. She wrote “View from the Bilge,” a humorous column that ran regularly in a travel industry trade publication, and started the Cruise Compendium, which offered training to travel agents who hoped to specialize in cruises.

When her mother retired, Dale took over Travelstar and led the agency to a national award.

After closing the agency in 2003, she worked for 10 years with Tauck World Discovery as a proofreader and fact checker. Her work in the travel industry was matched by her love of travel itself. She visited relatives in England and Scotland, and traveled to 5 continents.

In 2013, Dale and Robert moved to Fearrington Village in Pittsboro. Their home became known as the “house on the edge of the deep, dark woods.” Friends on social media read frequent accounts of her adventures there.

She was active in her community, editing the newsletter for Women of Fearrington, volunteering in elementary schools in Chapel Hill and Chatham County, and singing first alto with the Fearrington Village Singers.

Dale is survived by Robert; daughter Amanda (David) of Chapel Hill; granddaughters Claire of Berlin, Germany and Lucy of Chapel Hill; sister Beth van Dijk of Little Britain, Ontario, and many nieces and nephews.

Because she made an anatomical gift to Duke Medical School, no funeral arrangements are planned. Those wishing to honor her life may make donations to the Jordan-Matthews Arts Foundation in Siler City, NC or CORA Food Bank in Pittsboro, NC, 2 organizations she supported.

Dale Eyerly Colson

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Okay — so the Compo Beach jetty doesn’t qualify as “natural,” for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But the dusting of snow yesterday, and the waves lapping up against it, sure do.

(Photo/Betsy Amitin)

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And finally … on this date in 1858, Felix Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” ws played at the marriage of Queen Victoria’s daughter (also named Victoria), and Friedrich of Prussia. It’s still heard 164 years later, at nearly every wedding, everywhere.

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