Many sports camps are closed this summer. So are science camps, space camps — most camps, period.
But the Westport Library’s new Camp Explore is open. And open to all children, everywhere.
It’s a weekly, virtual (and free) program. Kids can experience it any time. They can watch it alone, or share with friends. There’s something for everyone.
The program kicks off on July 9 with Jennie Lynn Finch. The softball pitcher led the US to a gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics, and a silver 4 years later.
Also in July, deep sea explorer Dr. Robert Ballard returns to the library. The discoverer of wrecks like Titanic and the Bismarck, he’ll show campers what life is like on his ship the Nautilus.
Shark lovers will enjoy Emmy-winning writer and cinematographer Kevin Bachar. He spent 10 years as a National Geographic producer, and wrote specials for “Shark Week.”
Kids will also appreciate Emily Calandrelli. The MIT engineer-turned-TV host was a featured correspondent on “Bill Nye Saves the World,” host of “Xploration Outer Space,” and wrote the children’s book series “Ada Lace Adventures.”
New York Knicks star Charles Smith will share his story, from his career as an athlete to his accomplishments as a corporate executive.
Camp Explore also features Jerry Craft, author of the novel “New Kid” and comic strip “Mama’s Boyz.”
The program ends with R.L. Stine. The “Goosebumps” author will do a (virtual) reading around a campfire.
The Library will provide a “Keep Exploring Kit” to accompany each presentation, with suggested books to read, films to view, and fun activities. Separate kits are geared for children entering grades 4-5, and 6-8.
Click here for more details, and registration information.
Everyone’s talking about the skills young people need to navigate today’s world. We’re all concerned about civic virtues. Of course, everyone wants to develop creative thinkers.
Westport Continuing Education is sponsoring an online course — “The Art of Innovation: Cultivating Qualities for the Emerging Future” — for students entering grade 10 through college.
Set for July 13 to 17 (10 a.m. to noon), it will focus on skills like critical thinking, collaboration and global perspectives.
Click here to register. For more information, including scholarships, email conted@westportps.org, or call 203-341-1209.
There may not be fireworks. But Pauli’s Deli will celebrate July 4.
The Norwalk-based bagels-and-breakfast place replaces Bagel Maven that day.
Last night, Chris Fanning snapped a shot of the preparations:
One more reopening sign: MoCA Westport has announced a concert with the renowned American String Quartet.
It’s July 31. And it’s a real one. Not virtual, Zoom, Facebook Live or anywhere else in cyberspace.
The performance is outdoors at the museum, with groups spread 6 feet apart and masked. Concert-goers should bring their own chairs and snacks, though drinks and food are available for purchase before the concert.
MoCA Westport concert series curator (and Staples High School graduate) Alexander Platt will provide commentary. He knows the American String Quartet through his work over the last 18 years in Woodstock.
“Back then they were the gold standard in American string quartets — and they still are now,” Platt says.
“I can’t wait to hear their beautiful music again — now, more than ever. Their program — sublime Mozart, bracing Shostakovich and appropriately, Dvorak’s ‘American’ string quartet — will be the perfect musical tonic, after all we’ve been through.”
Click here for tickets, or call 203-222-7070. The maximum number of tickets will be limited by state guidelines.
Two organizations at opposite ends of the age spectrum — Toquet Hall and the Westport Senior Center — are partnering to present a free livestream concert tomorrow (Friday, June 26, 12 p.m.).
It features the funk band Mojo, with noted local musicians Drew Angus, Eric Lindahl and Spencer Inch. Click here to watch via Zoom (and note the password: 3qgZ4L).
The new planters on Main Street are drawing plenty of attention.
But there are colorful flowers beyond Elm Street. For example, Rye Ridge Deli is doing all it can to make the outdoor experience special too.
(Photo/Jamie Walsh)
And finally … as Westport, Connecticut prepares for jUNe Day this weekend (virtually, of course), let’s celebrate Westport, Ireland with Stuart Moyles.
PS: When the Levitt Pavilion opens next summer, we really need this lad as a headliner!
