Tag Archives: Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School

Roundup: Hamlet Petitions, Long Lots Brook, Original Pancake House …

Posted on April 15, 2025 | 8 comments

As the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck development wends its way through a thicket of town regulatory bodies, 2 petitions are circulating in town.

One is against the proposal. The other is for it.

The anti-Hamlet petition comes from the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck. It asks the Planning & Zoning Commission to deny the application, “with recommendations for a minimum of a 40% reduction in scope and scale.”

The pro-Hamlet petition calls The Hamlet “a unique opportunity to enhance Westport’s waterfront with vibrant public spaces, restaurants, and locally owned businesses — all while expanding access to the Saugatuck River.”

One view of the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck.

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Speaking of new construction: The new Long Lots Elementary School plans have drawn criticism from many quarters, from the destruction of the Community Gardens to the possibility of artificial turf on the proposed athletic fields.

It would seem that one element — unveiled last week — would not cause any complaints. That’s the entrance, which would include a new brook.

But some Westporters are concerned about the number of trees to be sacrificed.

And then there’s this, shared with “06880” by another resident: “A number of students with special needs, including autistic children, have a propensity to be drawn to water.

“Not to say that the children won’t be monitored all the time while in school. But if there was ever an incident, or a child ran faster than staff while outside at the playground, the water strikes me as a potentially dangerous addition.”


Plans for the new Long Lots Elementary School.

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News that will surprise probably no one: Westport’s Original Pancake House has closed.

The Main Street spot opened in January 2023, in the space previously occupied by Acqua restaurant. (And before that, Boca.)

The chain — whose first restaurant dates back to 1953, in Portland, Oregon — never gained a foothold, despite a small, devoted following. It was open only 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (3 p.m. on weekends), with an interesting but somewhat limited menu. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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As a former state champion Staples High School soccer captain — and the father of 3 athletes — Tommy Greenwald know sports.

As the author of a number of award-winning children’s and young adult books, Tommy knows his audience.

The 1979 Staples High School graduate’s newest title is published today.

“The Right Call” — a companion novel to his previous “Game Changer” —explores the growing pressures in youth sports, and the lengths some parents go to make sure their kid comes out on top.

Told through Tommy’s trademark combination of transcripts, articles, texts and e-mails, “The Right Call” is a fast-paced story for middle school readers. They can relate to its treatment of split-second decisions, facing consequences, and the courage it takes to forgive.

Click here for more details, and to order.

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Speaking of kids: The Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts a free egg hunt this Saturday (April 19, 2 p.m., Long Lots Elementary School).

Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation is hosting a free and festive Egg Hunt for the Westport community on Saturday.

It includes a dedicated, inclusive experience for children with special needs. The sensory-friendly hunt (1 p.m., Long Lots) features a peaceful, welcoming space for egg hunting at each child’s own pace; a quiet touch-a-truck event with vehicles from the Westport Fire and Police Departments (no loud noises!), a chance to meet and take photos with the Bunny, and friendly helps to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.

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The Westport Library Big Spring Book Sale is set for May 16-19.

As always there is something for everyone, from toddlers through adults, with thousands of gently used books in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, along with DVDs, CDs, vinyl, ephemera, and framed art. For a link to specials, hours of the sale and more, click here.

The sale begins on Friday, May 16 with early access (8:45 a.m. to noon) for special ticket holders. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

To volunteer, email volunteers@westportbooksales.org.

Westport Library book sale. 

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Nearly every kid loves trucks.

So it’s a short step for the Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School‘s fundraiser to have a Touch-a-Truck them.

This year’s event — the 18th annual — is May 3 (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; sensory-friendly from 9 to 9:30 a.m.; Imperial Avenue parking lot).

Of course, kids of all ages (including adults) are invited to get up close, climb on, and take photos with vehicles of all shapes and sizes. That means fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs … you get the idea.

Also on tap: magicians, crafts, face painting, food trucks, and live music.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here to purchase, and more details.

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Monday’s Y’s Women meeting left attendees hungry for more.

Mike Urban — author of Unique Eats & Eateries pf Connecticut — offered a culinary tour of the state’s mom-and-pop diners and restaurants.

They included Milford’s hot buttered lobster on split bun rolls, “steamed” cheeseburgers in Meriden, homemade ice cream at the University of Connecticut Dairy Barn, and the 5 best pizza places in the country (all in New Haven).

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Westport favorite — and native — Melissa Newman returns for another headline event at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (April 17, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; music cover $20, $15 for veterans and students).

The vocalist will be joined by Tony Lombardozzi on guitar, Phil Bowler on bass and Bobby Leonard on drums. Click here for reservations.

Melissa Newman

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The latest Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand reading took place last night. “Paris” tackled issues of race, commerce, community and invisibility in a small town workplace.

The next play in the series — “Still” — is May 5 (7 p.m.). The Playhouse website says: “When former lovers Helen and Mark reunite after years apart, they quickly realize that the person each of them once knew — and the love they shared — might be more complicated than they remembered.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

The cast of “Paris” takes their bows. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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How sweet does today’s “Westport … Naturally” rose smell?!

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … sometimes our musical selections are out of left field. Today’s is perhaps the most predictable ever:

(Happy Tax Day! If you’ve got a nice refund coming, please consider tossing a few dollars over to “06880.” We need to pay our taxes — and other expenses — too! Please click here. We thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Library, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Community Gardens, Wakeman Field, RTM Vote …

Posted on June 4, 2024 | 4 comments

Gardeners, dog walkers and parents of schoolchildren — some of whom fit in more than one of those categories — await tonight’s Representative Town Meeting agenda item #7 (Tuesday, June 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Last month, the Board of Selectwomen approved a request by the Parks & Recreation Department to close all school grounds to anyone not a “student, staff member or invited guest” between 7:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m., whenever school is in session.

Tonight, the RTM will vote on a petition “to review, discuss and reject the new Parks & Recreation regulation, or modify it in order to preserve the gardening hours at the Westport Community Garden to their prior hours during school days (i.e. no gardening between 8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.).”

The prohibition is currently in effect, though apparently it has not been enforced due to the pending petition.

Wakeman Field — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — is part of the ban. It was not included for an exemption in the petition before the RTM.

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When a section of Winslow Park off Compo Road North was handed to contractors, as a staging area for sewer work nearby, many folks feared the worst.

Industrial fencing went up. Gravel covered the grass. Paradise wasn’t exactly paved over, but — despite promises to the contrary — it sure seemed like it would never be back the way it was.

A year later, that area is as good as new.

If not better.

The fencing is gone. Gravel was trucked away. Grass grew back quickly. You’d never know the difference.

Thanks to Westport’s Public Works Department, and all others who made sure the contractors lived up to their promise.

Let’s hope the new sewers are in equally good shape.

New grass at Winslow Park’s former staging area. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of which: One reason to avoid Whitney Street is … sewer work.

Next on the agenda: new sidewalks.

In the meantime: Avoid this very tempting shortcut between Roseville Road and downtown.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And speaking again of Winslow Park: A memorial service for Johnny Barnett — called by some its “mayor” — will be held there Sunday (June 9, 10 a.m.). See the map below for the exact location.

This Sunday is also Barnett’s birthday.

Guests should bring folding chairs. There will be acoustic music from the Barnett children, and an informal reception after the memorial.

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Staples Tuition Grants does 2 things very well.

It raises money. Then it gives it away.

STG celebrated its 81st year last night at the high school auditorium. The organization awarded $380,000 in scholarships to 104 graduating seniors and students already in college.

The money goes to students with demonstrated financial need. Over 400 people donated to the general fund this year, or to named or endowed awards that honor Staples’ history — and support its future.

To learn more about Staples Tuition Grants, click here.

Some of the STG recipients, in the Staples courtyard. (Photo/Pam Einarsen)

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After 23 years as director of the Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School — and 34 total years — Pat Rackliffe is retiring.

The Co-op was founded in 1955 by parents to provide a strong, supportive environment for their children’s early education. Pat exemplified that mission, through a strong sense of community with the students, staff, and parents.

Meanwhile, new director of education Libby Gustafson began June 1. She knows The Co-op well, having served as a junior counselor at age 14.

She later returned as a teacher, parent, contributor to the parent education series, and accreditation consultant.

But that’s not all. Pat Racklifee is Libby Gustafson’s mother!

Pat will be honored for her contributions this Friday (June 7). Email info@westportwestoncoop.org), or call 203-227-9318 for details.

Pat Rackliffe (right) and Libby Gustafson

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Westport educators Lauren Francese and Anthony Battaglia have been honored for their commitment to excellence in social studies.

The awards were given by the Connecticut Council for the Social Studies.

Francese — the Westport Public Schools’ social studies coordinator — welcomed attendees at the annual meeting. She and several colleagues received an award for helping develop Connecticut’s new social studies standards.

Battaglia won the Pre-Service Excellence in Social Studies Education award, for exceptional student teachers. A pre-service teacher from the University of Bridgeport, he recently completed his student teaching in 8th grade at Coleytown Middle School.

Anthony Battaglia and Lauren Francese

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At Staples, from which she graduated in 2010, Caroline Goldstein was very active in the school paper Inklings.

Her sophomore and senior year English teacher Gus Young inspired her love for writing through an independent study, and encouraged her to apply to a summer program at Simon’s Rock.

That led to her study of creative writing as an undergrad at New York University, where she also earned a master’s of fine arts.

It all paid off. The writer — who now goes by Caroline Wolff — just published her first book.

Amazon says of “The Wayside”:

When Kate Cleary’s son, Jake, dies at his elite liberal arts college, she refuses to believe it was suicide. Something sinister is at play, and Kate becomes determined to retrace Jake’s steps during his final days. Descending into a spiral of obsession as she finds herself up against unknown forces at every turn, Kate falls further into a dangerous mystery that brings her closer to a terrifying truth even Jake himself wanted to keep hidden.

Combining elements of dark academia and domestic fiction with a modern twist, “The Wayside” is a sharply observed story of suspense, devotion, and the secrets we keep from those who love us most.

Click here for more information, and to order. (Hat tip: Jessica Isaacs)

Caroline Wolff

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The Westport Fire Department responded to an outdoor structure fire next to a Burnham Hill residence just before midnight..

There were no injuries. The incident is being investigated by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office. The WFD was assisted by Westport Police and Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

Burnham Hill fire (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Azerbaijan may not be the jazz capital of the world.

But Amina Figarova rose from her youth behind the Iron Curtain to become of the most celebrated pianists and composers on the international jazz scene.

This Thursday (June 6, 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), she makes her debut Jazz at the Post appearance.

She’s joined by flutist Bart Platteau, bassist Will Goble, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Tickets are $20 for the music; $15 for veterans and students. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Mary Lou Denke Rotella died last Wednesday, with her family by her side. She was 73.

The Saugatuck native and Staples High School graduate lived in Westport for most of her life.

She met her husband of 53 years, Angelo Rotella, through close friends.

She raised 3 children, while taking care of her parents and mother-in-law.

Mary Lee worked as a certified nursing assistant at a convalescent home, and in the Coleytown Elementary School cafeteria. In her spare time, she loved to bake, dance, fish and garden. Mary Lee was adamant about cutting her own grass and weed-whacking, and did her own lawn care until shortly before she died.

Her family says,, “Mary Lee’s favorite thing was to bring people together, and make others happy and feel cared for. We can only aspire to have a fraction of her energy, strength, and love for others.”

Mary Lee is survived by her children Dawn, Angelo Jr. (Natasha); and Lisa (Christian); grandchildren Brianna, Paddy, Darragh, Isabelle and Angelo III, and siblings Frank Denke Jr. and Pamela Fortner. She was predeceased by her husband, and brothers John, Merritt (Bobby) and Donald Denke.

Calling hours are at Harding Funeral Home on Thursday (June 6, 4 to 7 p.m.). Mass will be held Friday (June 7, 11 a.m., Assumption Church).

Mary Lee Rotella

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It’s peony season!

And Pat Saunders sends this perfect specimen to “06880,” for our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

(Photo/Pat Saunders)

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And finally … On this date in 1919, Congress approved the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. The measure — guaranteeing suffrage to women — went next  to the 48 U.S. states for ratification.

(From the Community Gardens, Wakeman Field and Winslow Park to Broadway and Azerbaijan, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Local politics, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Roundup: Age Of Reason, Alisyn Camerota, Vote! …

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 5 comments

Age of Reason — Westport’s oldest toy store — will soon sell its last puzzle, game and science set.

The Post Road West shop closes soon. Owner Nina Berger cited “personal and business reasons” for the decision. Age of Reason celebrated its 40th anniversary in October.

All items are 30% off. The final day is April 30, or earlier if all the inventory is sold.

Age of Reason was my go-to toy store, for many reasons. It’s locally owned; it’s filled with educational, expand-kids’-minds items, not mindless junk; and Nina and her staff always knew exactly the right gift for my nephews, nieces and friends’ newborn babies — no matter how vague my descriptions of them.

Thanks, Nina, for your 40 years of brightening Westporters’ (and their children’s) minds. Best wishes with whatever comes next. (Hat tip: Jonathan Hack)

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CNN anchor, author and Westport resident Alisyn Camerota launches her new memoir, “Combat Love,” at the Westport Library tonight (Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m.).

She’ll chat with memoirist (and fellow Westporter) Gabi Coatsworth about her story of growing up longing for stability and attachment, as the foundation of her family crumbled.

“Combat Love” chronicles Camerota’s youth in the 1980s, her relationship with a punk rock band, and her misadventures at clubs like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, coupled with the sex, drugs, and punk rock of 1980s New Jersey.

Tonight is the first of two appearances for Camerota at the Library. The two-time Emmy Award winner returns Saturday, April 6, for VersoFest 2024. She’ll lead a  conversation with Doors drummer John Densmore about his book, The Doors Unhinged: Jim Morrison’s Legacy Goes on Trial.

Alisyn Camerota

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Connecticut’s first-ever early voting began yesterday, for the state’s Democratic and Republican presidential primaries.

129 Westporters — 105 Democrats and 24 Republicans — made history as Westport’s earliest voters. They included 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

All Westporters vote at Town Hall. The usual polling places are not open, as schools are in session.

Early voting continues today and tomorrow, March 27-28 (Town Hall Room 201) and Saturday, March 30 (Town Hall auditorium). Polls are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on those days.

Election Day is Tuesday, April 2 (6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Republican and Democratic election officials yesterday, at Town Hall. (Photo/Deborah Greenberg)

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It’s impossible to get to every worthwhile Westport fundraiser. And the spring calendar is chock full of them.

But if there’s one you really shouldn’t miss, it’s the Dream Event, for A Better Chance of Westport. For over 20 years, ABC has provided educational opportunities — and a home — to academically gifted, highly motivated young men of color.

It’s a great cause — just like so many others. Our town is filled with wonderful non-profits, doing good in a wide array of ways.

What sets the Dream Event apart are the speeches. Current scholars, and those who have graduated from the program, speak movingly, eloquently and inspirationally about their journeys.

They describe the difficulties of moving to a town like Westport, and a school like Staples; the ups and downs of their 4 years in the program, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

It’s a heartfelt look into America — and an uplifting look into the future.

(Of course, there’s also light bites, cocktails, entertainment, and live and silent auctions.)

This year’s A Better Chance of Westport is April 27 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

A Better Chance of Westport alumni, at the 2023 Dream Event. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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For decades, Jon Gailmor has entertained, educated and inspired Vermont kids with his unique songwriting workshops.

Now the 1966 Staples High School graduate is coming home, to do it here.

Old School Music Productions presents Gailmor — an official “Extraordinary Vermont” (per the governor) and longtime recording artist — at the Weston History & Culture Center.

The April 6 event includes songwriting sessions for 2nd-5th graders (10 to 11:30 a.m.) and 6th-8th graders (1 to 2:30 p.m.). Students work with Gailmor to find a topic, develop a theme, then create the lyrics, rhythm and melody. The cost is $40 per student. Click here to register.

At 4:30 p.m., the youngsters will perform the songs they wrote, for family, friends and everyone else who enjoys creativity and fun. Gailmor will also perform popular and original tunes. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children.

Gailmor received the Mayor’s Peace Prize in Burlington, and was awarded a Silver Citation by the Vermont Arts Council.  He sang as Vermont’s representative at the 25th anniversary of the Kennedy Center in Washington, and in 1996 carried the Olympic Torch through Brattleboro, on its way to Atlanta. To learn more about the legendary Jon Gailmor, click here.

Jon Gailmor, at a kids’ songwriting workshop.

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Speaking of kids: They’re fascinated by police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs and fire trucks.

On May 4 (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), they’ll get a chance to climb all over — and take photos of — all of them, and more cool vehicles.

The Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 17th annual Touch-a-Truck fundraiser includes other family friendly activities too: magicians, crafts, face painting, food trucks and live music.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets. Proceeds help fund scholarships, supplies and equipment, and special programs. 

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Right on time last night, Westport’s favorite raptors — 2 ospreys — returned to their nest, near Fresh Market.

And right on time, Westport’s favorite osprey photographer — Carolyn Doan — was there to capture them. (On camera, that is.)

The male arrived first. The female followed. They winter separately in Florida or South America, Carolyn says.

Here are her first spectacular images of the year:

(Photos/Carolyn Doan)

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Looking for a volunteer opportunity? Love Wakeman Town Farm?

Our local sustainability center invites you to a “casual volunteer coffee” on April 8 (10 to 11 a.m.).

Interested in helping with cooking classes? Have a knack for researching and writing grants? Enjoy fundraising or contacting sponsors? How about face painting, working the entry door, or otherwise helping at an event?

Learn about how you can help — without a huge time commitment.

And if you don’t know much about WTF: It’s your chance to learn.

Opportunities galore, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Jonathan Alloy offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Kings Highway North, noting: “It may not feel like it from the weather, but spring has sprung.”

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … we say goodbye to Age of Reason, with this song from The Toys:

(Business, books, birds — all that and more, today and every day, in your hyper-local blog. Please support our work; just click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Politics

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Roundup: Condo Hunt, Village Stories, Touch A Truck …

Posted on April 21, 2023 | 3 comments

In October, “06880” reported that Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito were putting their historic, gorgeous Beechwood home up for sale.

For 10 years, the internationally known pianist and his talented artist wife had opened their property — with its 216-year-old rooms, grand piano and towering copper beech tree — to the public. They hosted innovative salons, with everyone from Joshua Bell to dancers and chefs sharing their talents and ideas.

Six months later, the New York Times has picked up the story.

Frederic and Jeanine are the stars of this Sunday’s Real Estate “The Hunt” feature. Each week, the paper describes a home buyer’s search for the perfect property. Readers learn what they looked and did not purchase (and why) — and, of course, what they finally bought.

On Sunday, you can find out which of 3 Norwalk condos they decided on. You can click on the story here and find out too — but first you’ll have to take a quick quiz on which of the properties you would like, and which one you think Frederic and Jeanine preferred. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

Jeanine Esposito and Frederic Chiu in their new home. (Photo/Jane Beiles for he New York Times)

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Earth Day is tomorrow.

With no school on Saturday, Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools celebrated yesterday.

Parents gathered on the hill between to watch their kids sing “This Land is Your Land,” and offer tips about sustainability and the impact we all have on this planet.

4th and 5th graders beat drums to accompany the 800-plus students singing “This Pretty Planet” by Tom Chapin and Libana’s “The Earth is our Mother.”

The event was the the brainchild of Ashley Moran of SES and Priscila Jones of KHS, with great enthusiasm from music teachers Colleen Cooney and Amy Laurino. (Hat tip: Allegra Gatti Zemel)

Earth Day at Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools.

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Every pediatrician’s office has story books in the waiting room.

Village Pediatrics has them outside too.

Patients — and their parents – know that a visit to 323 Riverside Avenue includes time exploring the “story walk” along the Saugatuck River, behind the building.

Dr. Nikki Gorman and her colleagues put up the first story when they moved in, nearly 8 years ago. They’ve changed them seasonally every since.

The Village staff enjoys picking different books to highlight — those with interesting stories, and plenty of illustrations.

The featured book right now is (aptly) “Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring.”

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this great tale. You don’t need an earache or cough to visit Village Pediatrics — well, at least their story walk.

Medical office assistant Nick Schiff Denota joined Village Pediatrics 2 years ago, after graduating from Weston High School. He takes pride in putting up and maintaining the story walk.

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Speaking still of kids: Fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs, boats and others roll into the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Saturday, April 29.

They’re all part of the Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 16th annual Touch-A-Truck fundraiser (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; quiet hour without sirens or horns is 9 to 10 a.m.).

Children of all ages can get up close, climb on, and take photos with vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

They’ll also enjoy food trucks, music, balloon animals, magic shows, face painting, sensory play and more.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets.

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Moving on to teenagers: What’s the difference between the ACT and SAT exams? Which one should my child take? How much do test scores matter? How do test-optional schools evaluate applications?

Those questions and more will be addressed — and hopefully answered — next Tuesday (7 p.m., Zoom).

College admissions counselor Amy Chatterjee talks about “Everything You Didn’t Know — But Should — About the SATs/ACTs.”

The webinar — sponsored by S4 Study Skills — is free, but registration is required. Click here to sign up.

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As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Rowan Center — a local sexual assault resource agency — wants everyone to know how to keep children safe.

On Monday, April 24 (7 p.m., MoCA Westport), they’ll share information about social media, mental health, and sexual violence prevention education. Click here for more information. The event is free.

To RSVP, email info@therowancenter.org.

Artwork for the Rowan Center event.

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The limited edition vinyl LP of “Verso Records: Volume One” has arrived. Now, the Westport Library gets ready to celebrate the “artists, conspirators and community” that helped create the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced and released by a public library.

June 3 marks the official release. It includes 12 live tracks from tri-state area artists. Genres include rock, jazz, hip hop, folk and indie. All were recorded at the Library’s Verso Studios.

A release party is set for that night (7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Four of the bands will perform live.

The release party is free. A $25 ticket option includes a copy of “Verso Records: Volume One” and a free drink. (No record player? A digital copy will be available for $10.)

The album is available for pre-order. Preorders can be picked up at the release party, or will be shipped afterward.

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Speaking of music: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston celebrates International Jazz Day with a unique, open worship service for all ages and denominations.

The April 30 event (4 p.m.) combines the liturgical traditions of vespers with the exciting, soulful sounds of saxophone player John Collinge, bassist Steve Clarke, pianist Pat Marafiote, drummer Chris Stanley, guitarist Antonio Penn, and vocalist Jae Jones.

It’s a great introduction to jazz for young audiences, and a toe-tapping service for all.

Admission is free (donations are accepted). For more information click here, or call 203-227-4707.

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The comedy/mystery “Bad Accents” kicks off the Westport Country Playhouse’s “New Works” series on Monday (April 24).

The audience is invited to meet playwright Matthew Greene and director Liam Lonegan (Playhouse assistant artistic director) in the lobby after the performance.

Click here for more information, and tickets. All seats are $25.

The cast of 5 includes Halima Henderson.

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“06880 has covered the hatching of swan eggs by the Saugatuck River, a few yards from the hustle, bustle and carbon monoxide of Parker Harding Plaza.

But a couple of days ago — after that birth — Alina Rodescu-Pitchon spotted another mother, with her nest.

“Westport … Naturally” — and all of downtown — is twice blessed.

(Photo/Alina Rodescu-Pitchon)

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And finally … Otis Redding III only 3 years old when his father and namesake died in a 1967 plane crash.

Otis III — who went on to a fruitful, career as a musician — died Tuesday in the Redding family’s home town of Macon, Georgia. He was 59, and suffered from cancer.

Otis III was not burdened by his father’s fame. He had his own band. But he also sang Otis’ biggest hit, “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay.”

Otis III worked with his family’s foundation to organize summer camps, teaching children to play music. And he served as president of the local chapter of Meals on Wheels. Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” scours the world for Westport stories. To help us do it, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Real estate, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Gloria, Aqua Fit & Veterans, Touch-a-Truck …

Posted on May 2, 2022 | 17 comments

Gloria has long been a part of Westport.

It was Alan Sterling’s working oyster boat for years. In the winter, he moored it in Gray’s Creek.

It stayed there after he died, in 2014. Michael Calise and others tended to it well.

Now — nearly a decade later — it is on its last legs.

Gloria, in Gray’s Creek. (Photo/Bruce McFadden)

Click here for an “06880” archive of Gloria stories.

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The men and women of the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Aqua Fit classes are an energetic bunch.

They’re also community minded. All month long, they’re joining with Westport veterans’ groups, to raise awareness and help.

Yesterday, after class, a coffee hour and informational table in the Y lobby was staffed by members of VFW Joseph Clinton Post 399, and the VFW Auxiliary. They explained all the good things they do, for veterans and Westport.

Next Saturday (May 7, 10 a.m.), the Staples high School girls golf team — coached by beloved Aqua Fit instructor Patty Kondub — will tidy up and pay respect at veterans’ graves in Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road. Everyone is welcome to help.

On Saturday, May 21 (4:30 to 5:30 p.m.), the public is invited to join a “drop-in” Aqua Fit class. Get healthy, see why members are so loyal — and the $20 fee for the drop-in class will benefit the VFW Auxiliary.

All month long, the Aqua Fit program is sponsoring a donation box, with “Wish List,” in the Y lobby. Both collections support Homes for the Brave, the nonprofit that helps homeless veterans.

For more information, email Patty Kondub (nortonpk@icloud.com) or Joan Evon (joanevon@optonline.net).

Westport Weston Family YMCA CEO Anjali McCormick (directly under the “Y” signs) joins members of the Westport VFW, VFW Auxiliary and Aqua Fit to promote the month of awareness of veterans’ issues.

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Beginning yesterday, stickers are required for parking at all Westport beaches.

The lifeguard chairs are not yet in position, but will soon be. Meanwhile, 2 varieties are being stored — along with what look like new chairs — at the Soundview lot.

(Photo/Robin Myers)

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The Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School hosts a great, on-brand event this Saturday (May 7, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s presented by Longshore Sailing School.

The 15th annual event includes vehicles of all shapes and sizes (for kids of all ages to climb on, and take photos of): fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs, boats and more.

Plus food trucks, live entertainment, merchandise for sale, raffle tickets, “roaming railroad trackless train rides,” face painting, balloon animals, sensory play and more.

It can get loud. Guests with sensitivity to noise can enjoy a quiet hour from 9 to 10 a.m., with no sirens or horns.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here to purchase. All proceeds benefit the Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School.

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Saturday night’s benefit concert in Trumbull for cancer research began with a “stick tap” honoring Charlie Capalbo. The former Fairfield Ludlowe High School goalie died last month, after battling 4 cancers. He was one month shy of 24 years old. Charlie’s grandparents are Westporters Richard Epstein and Ina Chadwick, and his mother is Staples High grad Jennifer Wilde Capalbo.

Click below to see the very moving ceremony.

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Skunk cabbage makes its first appearance in “Westport … Naturally” today.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio spotted this field at Earthplace.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … on this day in 1952, a De Havilland Comet made the first jet flight with paying passengers. The route was London to Johannesburg.

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