Tag Archives: Staples High School Class of 1980

Roundup: Run For RTM, Eat At Gruel Britannia, Clean Up Trash …

Westport residents interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) can pick up a petition at the Town Clerk’s office, starting today.

To qualify for the November 4 ballot, candidates must collecct at least 25 signatures from registered voters in their district. Completed petitions must be returned to the town clerk by September 9.

The RTM is a 36-member, nonpartisan legislative body. Four representatives are elected from each of 9 voting districts. Members serve two-year terms.

RTM members play a vital role in town governance. They vote on appropriation requests over $20,000, approve town ordinances, provide final approval of the town budget, and serve on committees that review and make recommendations on budgetary and legislative matters. They may also review certain decisions made by town boards and commissions.

For more information about the petition process or other election questions, contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.

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Yesterday marked a jolly good opening for Gruel Britannia.

The new Cross Highway restaurant — an outpost of the very popular Southport spot, taking over the vacant Porch @ Christie’s — was packed from the moment the doors opened.

Neighbors, other Westporters from further away, Fairfield fans, construction workers, delivery people — all were impressed with the menu, the interior, and owner Karen Hubrich’s welcoming vibe.

Click here for last week’s preview story, and menus.

Gruel Britannia: ready to serve. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today marks the beginning of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force drive.

They’re collecting household items for clients at their 2 safe houses. Supplies are part of “move-in baskets,” which help recipients transition into apartments.

Items needed include

  • Laundry detergent
  • Laundry baskets
  • Plastic reusable plates
  • Plastic reusable utensils
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Dish towels
  • Hand towels and washcloths
  • Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)
  • Tin foil
  • Plastic wrap
  • Parchment paper
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Brooms and mops
  • Dustpans
  • Paper napkins
  • Hand soap

Donations can be dropped off in the lobby at the Westport Police station, through July 29.

For more information on the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force, click here. For 24-hour assistance with domestic violence, call 888-884-2900, or click here.

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As “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Assocation put the final touches on this Sunday’s Soundview Summer Stroll (July 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), we’re looking for a few teenagers (or parents!) to help run games and fun for little kids, in 1-2 hour shifts.

It’s already organized. We just need helping hands! If interested, please email at kristinemott@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, get ready to enjoy live music, eat, play, stroll, Rollerblade, and otherwise enjoy the Compo Beach exit road — closed to all traffic — on Sunday.

See you there!

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An “06880” reader whose home abuts the Longshore golf course writes: “During the 4 years we have lived here, we have found empty beer cans, candy wrappers and the like on our rear property.

“On Sunday, one of my granddaughters discovered 2 empty Coors cans.

“Of course, there’s a teaching lesson for them: Respect other people’s property, don’t litter, etc.

“However, the real lesson is: Golfers and other Longshore attendees are disrespectful to their neighbors.

“My husband and I are shocked that we live in aqqa community that has no respect for our property. We thought when we moved here Westport was a kind,caring and respectful community. We sadly are finding that that is not the case.

“Everyone should treat their neighbors’ property in the same manner they would like others to treat their property.”

The back of a Longshore-area resident’s property.

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The Westport Police Department says: Connecticut is updating its e-bike laws.

Effective October 1, e-bikes without pedals, and with batteries over 750 watts, will now be classified as motor-driven cycles. A driver’s license will be required to operate them.

E-bikes over 3,500 watts are expected to need registration and insurance — similar to motorcycles.

Class 1–3 e-bikes are not affected. They still will noto require a license.

Police say tell parents: “As you shop for e-bikes, keep these changes in mind –especially for younger riders. If a bike performs like a motorcycle, it may not be the right fit for a child just yet.”

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Speaking of transportation: Spaces in the Westport Weston Family YMCA parking lot closest to the Merritt Parkway are narrower than in other rows.

There are “Compact Cars Only” signs. But not a lot. They’re easy to miss.

What’s not easy to miss is when you have to squeeze into a spot. And come within millimeters of scraping the car next to you. Like this driver:

I’m pretty certain the green car was already there.

Getting in was the easy part. Getting out will be much harder.

It’s always amazed me that people will do anything they can, to park as close to the Y as possible.

So they can then go inside, and work out.

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Westport is home to all kinds of summer camps. Cello, art, computer, SAT prep — you name, there’s something for you.

Including water polo.

Northeast Elite offers an August 4-9 camp for middle and high school students. Experienced and new players are all welcome. It’s non-competitive and focused on fundamentals, with both land and water activities.

It’s the 6th year for this special opportunity — and it certainly is unique. The site is Schlaet’s Point, right off Compo Beach. Click here for more information.

Coach Danilo Sierra-Giraldo, at the Northeast Elite water polo camp.

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Speaking of water sports: Congratulations to Zadie Schatz!

The young Westport swimmer — a rising 8th grader at Pierrepont School — earned 1 gold and 3 silver medals, 4 junior national times (100 breast, 200 breast, 200 IM, 400 IM), and a few national swimming news mentions at the recent Novato Sectionals in California.

Her 100 breaststroke time is 0.7 seconds away from last year’s Olympic trial cut —  very unusual for a 13-year-old, particularly a dual sport athlete (she also plays water polo).

Sectional meets are open age, so she raced against adults and college athletes too.

Congratuations too to Zadie’s Stamford Sailfish teammate and fellow Westporters, Connor Cheung

The 15-year old, who will be a Staples High School sophomore this fall, placed 51st, 97th and 105th in, respectively, the 50 free, 100 free and 200 free.

Zadie Schatz

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Like all reunion classes, they can’t believe it’s been xx years.

But Staples High School’s Class of 1980 celebrates their 45th reunion next month.

They’ll meet Friday, August 15 at the VFW. They’ll spend Saturday afternoon and evening at Compo Beach, with dinner from the Szabo Seafood truck.

As always, they’ll raise money for their beloved classmate Susan Lloyd, and the Susan Fund that for over 50 years has provided more than $2 million in scholarships, to Fairfield County residents with cancer. Funds will come from a raffle of art, by Class of ’80 artists.

For more information on the reunion, and to register, click here. Questions? Email Amy Potts: amy@aapk.com.

Susan Lloyd

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When vocalist/actor/writer Abena Koomson-Davis sat in with her husband at Jazz at the Post, she brought the VFW house down.

This Thursday, the 3-time Tony winner — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — headlines her own shows (July 24, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20; $15 veterans and students).

Koomson-Davis will be joined by pianist Rick Germanson, bassist Matt Dworszyk, drummer Jonathan Barber and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for reservations.

PS: Even if you’re not a jazz fan, check out the performance below. Spectacular!

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Also this Thursday (July 24): The Fairfield County Dance Festival returns to Westport (6:30 p.m., MoCA CT). The free, outdoor performance features the Amy Marshall Dance Company and New England Ballet Theater.

All are welcome — from longtime dance enthusiasts to families looking for a fun summer evening outside.

Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and picnics. For more information, click here.

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There’s a word for “fear of spiders” (arachnophobia).

But even the most arachnophobic “06880” reader must marvel at spiders’ creation.

Pam Kesselman spotted (and snaped) today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo — on her deck.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … “who” knew this was coming?

(From the RTM and Gruel Britannia to e-bikes and water polo, “06880”‘s Roundup has it all. That’s the way we roll. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

Roundup: Motorcycles, Daffodils, Kelli O’Hara …

For 21 years, Stacie Curran and friends have ridden in the CT United Ride. The largest motorcycle ride in Connecticut pays tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11.

Yesterday’s event took place on the actual date: September 11. Before the start at Sherwood Island, the group met at Stacie’s house:

The entire group — hundreds strong — gathered at the state park:

(Photo/Tom Lowrie)

Soon — with a police escort from several towns — they headed onto I-95. Their route of remembrance took them to Exit 17, Riverside Avenue, Wilton Road, and through 8 other Fairfield County towns.

(Photo copyright by Ted Horowitz)

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Every year, the arrival of spring in Westport is heralded by the “Daffodil Mile” — the long, winding rows of daffodils at Willowbrook Cemetery on Main Street.

Daffodil Mile, at Willowbrook Cemetery … (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

For the past few years, daffodils have also bloomed throughout the rest of Westport. On Prospect Road, in Saugatuck, in traffic islands everywhere, the week of yellow flowers brings smiles to Westporters sick and tired of snow and slush.

Greens Farms Road, at Prospect Road.

Those daffodils don’t just fall from the sky (to mix metaphors). They’re the product of plenty of planning — and planting.

“Paint the Town Yellow” is a project begun 4 years ago by Debra Kandrak. This fall — prime daffodil-planting time — she encourages everyone, of all ages, to plant “around our neighborhoods, around street signs, mailbox posts, in front of your business, in front of the Police and Fire Departments.” She’d love for schools to be involved too.

This year’s theme is “plant in memory of a loved one lost.”

The easiest way to plant, Debra says, is to dig a trench and pop the bulbs in (pointy side up). Costco sells 50 bulbs for $13.99.

After you plant, email the location to debra.kandrak@raveis.com. She’ll come around next spring, and take photos.

Which, of course, she will share with “06880.”

So get going. Spring is only 7 months away.

Daffodil bulbs from Costco. (Photo/Debra Kandrak)

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The New York Times says that this November’s Metropolitan Opera staged premiere of “The Hours” is “New York City’s opera event of the fall.”

In addition to renowned soprano Renée Fleming, it stars Kelli O’Hara. The Times calls the Westport resident “a Tony Award-decorated musical theater actress with opera bona fides (even at the Met, where she was a standout as Despina in Mozart’s ‘Così Fan Tutte’).”

That’s part of the intro to an interview published yesterday with Fleming, O’Hara and Joyce DiDonato.

Click here for the full (and very interesting) piece.

Kelli O’Hara (Photo/Thea Traff for New York Times)

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Every Staples High School reunion is a cause for celebration and remembrance.

COVID caused the Class of 1980 to wait an extra 2 years to gather for their 40th. But as they got together last month (and shook their heads that they’re all now 60 years old, or about to be) they turned their thoughts to classmate Susan Lloyd.

The popular, always-active native Westporter was diagnosed with cancer as a senior. She passed away while at Colgate University. Her parents and friends created the Susan Fund in her honor. For 4 decades, it has provided important educational scholarships to Fairfield County students diagnosed with cancer.

Ten years ago, the reunion class raised $2,300 for the Susan Fund. This year, they contributed $5,500.

Kelly Frey Pollard — Susan’s good friend, and a Susan Fund board member — created a beautiful display, with letters from classmates to Susan and her family during her battle with cancer. Classmates were encouraged to take their letters home, as mementoes.

Over 130 alumni attended the reunion. A 45th is planned for 2025 — with another contribution to the Susan Fund. To find out, more follow the “Staples Class 1980” Facebook page, or email Amy Potts: amy@aapk.com,

The Class of 1980 display, of cards and letters sent to Susan Lloyd.

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The Westport Woman’s Club big clothing tag sale is next month. They’re getting ready — which means, they need items to sell.

Tax-deductible donations of new or gently-worn women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, and accessories like shoes, handbags, scarves, hats and jewelry, can be dropped off weekdays (9 a.m. to noon, and 1 to 4 p.m.) at the WWC (44 Imperial Avenue).

Funds raised from this clothing tag sale support the town food closet, local charities throughout Fairfield County, and student scholarships.

The clothing tag sale is set for October 28-29 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and October 30 (noon to 3 p.m.). For more information, call 203-227-4240 or email  wwc@westportwomansclub.org.

Westport Woman’s Club tag sale.

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Longtime Westporter Geoffrey Hooper died last week. He was 87 years old.

He was born in Victoria, British Columbia. After serving in the Canadian Air Force he met his first wife, Jeannette Lauzon, and moved to Connecticut to work for his father-in-law at Stamford Typesetting Corporation. In 1976 he bought the company with a partner, Frank DeBartolo.

At Stamford Type Geoff was a force to be reckoned with as a typesetter, salesman, accountant, proofreader and generous employer. He loved taking clients out charter fishing from Old Saybrook, and delivering bags of bluefish fillets to clients and friends. As the business changed from linotype to computers to desktop publishing and scanning, he kept up with all the new technologies.

When his children were growing up in Westport, Geoff was active in the Westport Community Theater and other acting groups. 

After retiring in 2008 he spent most of his time at his favorite place: home. Geoff was a talented gardener who always grew too many seedlings, but was happy to share them with family and friends. He enjoyed reading, cooking, traveling, theatergoing, and the YMCA’s water aerobics classes.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Suzy; his brother Murray (Barbara); his children and their partners Debbie (Norman), Lynne (Gary), Geoff Jr. (Susan) and Kenneth (Kim); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brother- and sister-in-law, Ken Solomon and Janice Lakey, and many other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a cause of your choice.

Geoff Hooper, in the water.

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Last March, 3 dolphins hung out for a few days in Bermuda Lagoon, by Saugatuck Shores.

Westport architect Peter Cadoux did not see them. In all his years has boating on Long Island Sound, in fact, he has not seen a single dolphin.

Yesterday he made up for that. Peter was awed by a pod of about 100 dolphins, cavorting a couple of miles off Smithtown Bay. That’s almost directly across the water from Westport.

Here’s a close-up, for today’s fascinating “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photos/Peter Cadoux)

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And finally … in honor of the pod of dolphins, last seen frolicking in Long Island Sound:

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(Without “06880,” would you know there were dolphins right off our coast? Please click here, to help us continue to bring you all the stories of where Westport meets the world.)

Roundup: Donuts, Swans, Missoula …

In honor of National Donut Day last week, the Senior Center ran a contest.

The results are in:

  • Chocolate: Coffee An’ (“by far,” I’m told)
  • Glazed: Coffee An’ and Dunkin’ Donuts (a tie!)
  • Plain: Dunkin

Sweet!

A Westport favorite for generations. (Photo/Katherine Bruan)

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Staples Players’ first Studio Theater production in over 2 years takes center stage on Thursday. Studios are directed, designed and run entirely run by students.

“At the Bottom of Missoula” portrays loss and grief in such an impactful way. Co-directors Chloe Manna and Chloe Nevas — both seniors — say, “It was a challenging piece but one we were excited to take on with our amazing cast and crew. The show takes the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions within its 35 minute run. The lighting design and sound is unique too, and creates  really beautiful moments we hope the audience will be touched by.”

The plot: After losing her family in a fatal tornado, college student Pan embarks on an unimaginable journey. She transfers schools and isolates herself, but cannot escape feeling sad and guilty. Finally, a classmate helps Pam realize that healing need not be a solitary endeavor.

Performances are Thursday and Saturday, June 9 and 11 at 7:30 p.m., in Staples’ Black Box Theater. Click here for tickets.

The cast of “At the Bottom of Lake Missoula.” (Photo/Chloe Nevas)

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Speaking of Staples:

The rugby team defeated Trumbull last night 41-21 in the state tournament semifinals.

The Wreckers advance to the state championship. The match is home (Paul Lane Stadium) this Thursday (June 9, 5:30 p.m.) against perennial powerhouse Greenwich — winner of 11 state titles. The Westporters shoot for their first.

Staples and the Cardinals have a great history. The Wreckers won their league match this spring; 3 weeks later, Greenwich got revenge at nationals.

Get ready to rumble!

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Award winning singer-songwriter Diana Jones headlines this Saturday’s Voices Café at the Unitarian Church. Her 8 p.m. concert is both in-person and livestreamed.

The concert is dedicated to the efforts of 6 area faith communities. All help settle refugees in Fairfield County, through the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants.

Volunteers come from Westport’s Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church,  Unitarian Church and United Methodist Church; Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church, the Greenfield Hill Congregational, and First Church Congregational of Fairfield.

Jones has performed at the Cambridge Folk Festival, Galway Arts Festival, Levon Helm’s Ramble in Woodstock, New York, and Bimhuis in Amsterdam, and shared stages with Richard Thompson, Janis Ian and Mary Gauthier. Joan Baez has recorded her songs.

Voices Café offers café-style and individual seating. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Diana Jones

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It took 3 years of planning (and COVID), but Staples’ Class of 1980 will celebrate their 40th reunion — okay their42nd — at LaKota Oaks in Norwalk. It’s also a giant 60th birthday party for all. LaKota Oaks’ 65 acres includes a pool, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoes and more.

The event begins Thursday, August 11 at Viva Zapata; continues Friday at the Black Duck, and concludes Saturday at LaKota Oaks. There’s jazz music in the afternoon, and a DJ at night.

As always, the Class of ’80 will raise money for the Susan Fund, in honor of classmate Susan Lloyd. For tickets and more information, click here. Questions? Email amy@aapk.com or szrobins84@gmail.com.

The Susan Fund — in honor of Susan Lloyd, Staples ’80 — provides scholarships for students with cancer, and survivors.

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Several readers have noticed that the swan’s nest near Gorham Island seems abandoned.

Amy Schneider took this photo, which may show the reason why: cracked eggs.

If so, it’s a sad — but natural — “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And finally … if you’ve never heard of Diana Jones (story above) — or if you have, and enjoy her music — take a listen:

Roundup: Birds, Gifts, Music …

Here’s a bright idea: The Connecticut Ornithological Association has just launched a “Lights Out Connecticut” initiative.

Residents, businesses, schools and building managers can pledge to turn off non-essential exterior lighting each night from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., during periods of peak bird migration. The goal is to help save migratory birds.

Connecticut joins Colorado, Georgia and Texas as the only places in the nation with statewide “Lights Out” programs.

The COA says that because most North American migratory birds travel at night, artificial light can disorient them, leading to fatal window collisions. There may be as many as 988,000,000 bird deaths in the US each year.

It’s a great idea. It’s especially welcome by residents of Cottage Lane. They’ve been aggravated by bright lights at the new 1480 Post Road East development nearby. The Planning & Zoning Commission has ordered a new lighting plan by May 9.

It can’t come soon enough for the neighbors. Or the birds. (Click here for the full Connecticut Ornithological Association story.)

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Need gift ideas for Mothers Day, Teacher Appreciation Week (May 2-6) or Nurse Appreciation Week (May 6-12)?

How about a gift for yourself?

Beauty consultant Carmela Cusano can help. She’ll be at Salon Nash tomorrow (Sunday, April 24, 1 to 4 p.m., Nash’s Plaza, 179 Post Road West).

While you’re there, enjoy a free wash and blow dry, courtesy of owner Felicia Catale, the great and very generous owner.

How’s that for a great gift!

Felicia Catale

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It took a while during the pandemic for Hook’d to get its act together.

But the Compo Beach concession stand was open yesterday for business.

Anyone can enjoy a meal there before May 1. On that date, stickers are required for beach entrance.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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Westport has many adult education offerings in many areas.

Andrew Smith thinks there are not enough in music.

He’s the executive director of Suzuki Music Schools of Westport & Orange — well known as a center for early childhood, and middle and high school, programs.

The Suzuki Philosophy is that children need an immersive experience in music. Smith says that holds true for adults too. Suzuki is not just for kids.

The school offers basic classes like Music Reading for Beginners, and Listening to Classical Music. Smith hopes to add Singing for Pleasure, Film Music and Composing.

He’d also like to create a Suzuki Members Club for Adults, with social engagement, public concerts and use of the facility. It would be like rowing or golf clubs — but focused on music.

Click here for more information, and registration.

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May is flower month at Wakeman Town Farm.

“Blooming With Paint’ (May 9, 6 to 8 p.m.) is a painting and drawing workshop, focusing on floral still life and challenging students to notice scale, proportion and placement.

Each participant receives a piece of handmade Nujabi paper, watercolor and oil pastels, paint brushes, Nujabi paper and drawing board. Click here for more information, and to register.

WTF also offers “sweet and whimsical spring flowers” for Mothers Day. Each bouquet comes in a mason jar tied with grosgrain ribbon. They’re $55, and designed by Sarah Shaw Floral Design exclusively for Wakeman Town Farm.

Orders will be taken through May 4. Pickup is at the Farm on Saturday, May 7 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) A portion of the proceeds supports WTF programs. Click here to order.

Wakeman Town Farm Mothers Day flowers. (Photo/Nancy Elizabeth Hill Photography)

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The Camp Gallery’s new solo show is “The Rooms of Joseph Ginsberg.”

There’s an opening reception next Friday (April 29, 5 to 7 p.m.) at 190 Post Road East. The show runs through May 24.

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It’s 2 years late. But Staples High School’s Class of 1980 celebrates their 40th (okay, 42nd) reunion (and giant 60th birthday party for all) this year.

The main event is Saturday, August 13 at LaKota Oaks in Norwalk. The 65-acre site features a pool, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoes and more. Dinner includes a DJ and dancing.

There are also meet-ups as Viva Zapata (Thursday, August 11) and the Black Duck (Friday, August 12).

As is traditional, they’ll raise money in honor of beloved classmate Susan Lloyd, to support The Susan Fund.

PS: Thanks to a generous donor, tickets are (almost) free!

Click here for more information. Questions? Email Amy Potts: amy@aapk.com.

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This guy popped out the other day at Sherwood Mill Pond.

Then he looked John Kantor in the eye, stood still, and posed for a “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/John Kantor)

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And finally … in honor of the photo directly above:

Staples Grad Nominated As Ambassador To Malaysia

Kamala Lakhdhir is in line to be an ambassador.

President Obama has named the 1980 Staples High School graduate as the next US Ambassador to Malaysia. The multi-ethnic, multicultural nation is an economic powerhouse of Asia.

A career member of the Foreign Service, Lakhdhir served as executive assistant to the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs from 2011-15. For 2 years before that, she was US Consul General in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

She previously worked as director of the Office of Maritime Southeast Asia; special assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs; political officer at the US Embassy in Beijing; on US House of Representatives committees and subcommittees, and as a political officer in Indonesia and a consular officer in Saudi Arabia.

Kamala Lakhdhir

Kamala Lakhdhir

Lakhdhir received a BA from Harvard College, and an MS from the National War College.

Her “diplomatic missions” date back to her Westport days. In the mid-1970s — during her Bedford Junior High School days — Lakhdhir supported a girl in Bangladesh, through Save the Children. She did it by giving up half her allowance.

Inspired, Lakhdhir visited the youngster — bringing frisbees, super balls and other tiny gifts to the village.

Her latest appointment must be confirmed by the  US Senate.

(Hat tip: Dan Kail)