Carl Swanson’s family moved to Westport in the summer of 1955. They quickly experienced 2 hurricanes — Connie and Diane — with their 26 inches of flooding.
Jo Ann Miller — who later married Carl — moved here in 1984, during Hurricane Diana. It too crippled much of the state.
Now — after decades in Westport — they are moving to Bermuda.
But not before a big moving sale. Among the items: sculptures by their late friend Kelley Spearen, Jo Ann’s engaging artwork, tools, sports equipment, kitchen appliances and much more.
The Saturday sales are August 9 and 23 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) at their home off North Avenue, near the Bedford Middle School entrance (follow the signs).
All proceeds will benefit 2 local groups: VFW Post 399, and “06880.”
Carl and Jo Ann’s generosity is apt. He is a writer, and long-time participant in and contributor to this blog. Jo Ann is the daughter of Lt. Gen. Thomas Miller (USMC-deceased), and the goddaughter of astronaut John Glenn.
“We have been blessed to have lived in this town for so long. It is time to give our last goodbye, to benefit those who give to the community every day,” Jo Ann says.
Thank you, Carl and Jo Ann, for your thoughtfulness — and for all you have done for our town, for so many years.
Carl Addison Swanson and Jo Ann Miller have already donated one of Kelley Spearen’s sculptures to Wakeman Town Farm.
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Speaking of art: Tomorrow (Tuesday, August 5, 11 to 11:30 a.m., Senior Center), the Westport Permanent Art Collections highlights the work of 5 of Westport’s most noted and beloved artists.
Works from Howard Munce, Susan Malloy, Alfred Willmott, Estelle Margolis and Stevan Dohanos will transport attendees back to the Westport of the 1950s.
Among the works: Dohanos’ “Star Pitcher,” which “06880” featured a few days ago:
“Star Pitcher” (Stevan Dohanos)
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This weekend, Westport’s lifeguards took time out from saving people, searching for lost kids and applying Band-Aids, to compete in the annual Lifeguard Olympics, at Compo Beach.
Among the events: races, and a tug of war.
The Olympics were coordinated by senior foreman Mike Guinta, and aquatics director Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.
(Photos/Rick Giunta)
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Speaking of the beach: A reminder that 2 portable fire pits are available to rent at South Beach, through the Parks & Recreation Department.
The cost is $150. Westport residents 21 and older can mail a request form to croda@westportct.gov.
Here’s one the other night, casting a warm glow after a cookout:
(Photo/Marie Gross)
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Also yesterday: Stella Blue’s Band played to a full Levitt Pavilion house of Grateful Dead fans of all ages.
Stella Blue’s Band. (Photo courtesy of Levitt Pavilion)
The concert corresponded to “The Days Between” — the period between Jerry Garcia’s birthday (August 1) and the day of his death (August 9).
In addition, 2025 marks the legendary band’s 60th anniversary.
The Levitt is just 9 years younger. As part of its 51st season, the outdoor amphitheater presents over 50 shows, free of charge — 19 in August alone.
For a full calendar and more information, click here.
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Speaking of entertainment: Seen on social media, and “06880”-worthy because it’s the closest first-run movie theater to Westport:
AMC Royale 6 has now extended its “previews” — the “coming soon” ads that blast on and on before the movie you paid to see — to 40 to 45 minutes long.
The good news: They now inform ticket buyers of the long, loud and obnoxious run-up ahead of time.
And speaking of the Royale 6: Bizarrely, the large sign in front, on Route 1, no longer lists the movies they’re showing.
More than one reader has written “06880,” asking when and why the theater closed.
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The Soundview Summer Stroll was one week ago.
Among the kids’ activities: rock painting.
When the event ended, some of the artwork left behind was placed on the nearby seawall.
A week later, it’s still there. But someone took the time to arrange it in a “lovely” message for passersby:
(Photo/John McCarthy)
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In the “there’s always a back story” department: Check out this mailbox, on Maple Avenue South.
(Photo/Chris Grimm)
There must be something more here. If you have a clue — or just want to guess — click “Comments” below.
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How does this Compo Beach image qualify as a “Westport … Naturally” photo?
Well — that sand is part of nature, right?
(Photo/Pam Kesselman)
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And finally … in honor of the Lifeguard Olympics (story above):
(If you read “06880” regularly: You’re a winner! And if you click here to make a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work, you’re a true champion. Thank you!)
