Miggs Burroughs is many things.
He’s a gifted artist, graphic designer and photographer. He designed a Time magazine cover and a US postage stamp, while still in his 20s.
The son of a noted illustrator, he’s a Staples High School graduate who has spent his career in Westport. He serves corporate clients, but never says no to pro bono work on behalf of local causes. He’s designed logos, posters and promotional materials for a host of organizations.
Miggs created the Westport town flag — and the lenticular photos that grace 2 important spots: the “Tunnel of Love” between Main Street and Parker Harding Plaza, and Saugatuck train station.
Downtown Tunnel of Love (Photo/Susan Leone)
He’s a founder of — and a guiding force behind — the Artists Collective of Westport. And you see him every Memorial Day, as our very own living, breathing Minute Man.
(Photo/Ted Horowitz)
He’s an all-around great, giving guy.
And today, Miggs Burroughs turns 80 years old.
Happy birthday, Miggs! Thanks for all you have done — and continue to do — for Westport, and beyond. Here’s to many years of health, happiness, creativity and coolness. (Hat tip: Carmine Picarello)
Miggs Burroughs
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Justin Paul’s experience in Staples Players — the high school’s award-winning drama program — was foundational to his award-winning career that followed.
The 2003 graduate and his songwriting partner, Benj Pasek, created “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.” They’re the youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winners ever.
High school theater changes many more lives than Paul’s, of course. Wauwatosa (Wisconsin) High just became the first school troupe anywhere to stage “Dear Evan Hansen.”
This weekend, “CBS Saturday Morning” highlighted the production. Included in the story was an interview with Paul and Pasek — and a touching scene of the duo telling the 17-year-old star to “break an arm” (IYKYK). Click here or below to see.
There’s also a link to a full, longer interview with Paul and Pasek. It’s well worth the 38 minutes — excellent questions, and insightful responses (particularly about the importance of high school theater). Click here or below to see. (Hat tip: John Dodig)
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Congratulations to Jeff Warshaw!
The CEO of Westport-based Connoisseur Media has been named Radio Ink’s 2026 Executive of the Year.
The honor recognizes “leadership, innovation, and measurable impact across the radio industry.”
The recognition follows Connoisseur’s acquisition of Alpha Media’s assets, a move that propelled them into the top 10 US radio operators by revenue.
“The spirit of entrepreneurism is alive in the radio industry,” Warshaw Radio Ink interview. “We have pep in our step.”
Radio Ink president and publisher Deborah Parenti calls Warshaw “a risk taker and visionary.”
Editor-in-chief Cameron Coats says that in 2025 Warshaw combined “vision, discipline, and belief in what local radio can still achieve.”
Jeff Warshaw at his desk, overlooking Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Staples High School Class of 1998 graduate Sage Hammond died peacefully on Friday.
She attended the School of Visual Arts, where she deepened her lifelong love of fashion, design and visual expression.
Her obituary says, “Smart and sassy, Sage lived her life on her own terms. She was known for her quick wit, an exceptional sense of style, and a natural talent for both fashion and interior design. Wherever she lived, she created spaces that reflected her bold taste and creative eye.
“Sage was also a gifted cook who loved sharing gourmet meals with friends, and turning ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions. She loved animals deeply, particularly cats, and over her lifetime shared her heart and home with many.
“Despite her own struggles, Sage had an instinctive ability to lift others up, often making people laugh when they needed it most. Her humor, warmth, and authenticity left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
“Sage lived boldly, loved deeply, and never believed in dull moments—she wouldn’t want one now.”
She was predeceased by her grandfather, Larry Racies. She is survived by her mother, Robin Hammond; father Jon Hammond; sister Gabriele Hammond (Bradley Topar); nephew Oliver and grandmother Gail Williams.
A celebration of Sage’s life will be held at a later date.
Sage Hammond
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo shows a serene Saugatuck Shores scene:
(Photo/Yulee Aronson)
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And finally … the interview with Justin Paul (above) brings to mind 3 great songs, from that life-changing show:
(As “06880” board member Miggs Burroughs turns 80, a reminder: We’re a non-profit — so donations are tax-deductible. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
Happy Birthday Miggs!! ❤️🇺🇸
Happy birthday to Mr Burroughs, who I have known since I was a toddler. He has always been a kind, thoughtful man in addition to all his amazing artistic talents. I also want to send out my best to Sage’s family. We graduated Staples together and I remember her always being so cool, funny and stylish (and a pretty decent oboe player). I am so sorry to hear of her passing.
Happy Birthday Miggs. There is no one more generous than you when it comes to promoting the town we love. Here’s to another twenty productive years promoting the arts!
He was Miggsey Martin Scott Burroughs when I babysat him in 1957. Darling boy then, accomplished (Remarkable) citizen now! Happy Birthday! Best wishes from Chicago. WKP
Yo Miggs‼️
Ya made it 👍
Welcome 🙏
Happy birthday miggs
Happy happy birthday Miggs! You are the BEST!
Happy Birthday Miggs. Both the Westport Center for Senior Activities and I am looking forward to having you as our special guest at “This Is Your Life, Miggs Burroughs” on Friday Feb 6 at 1:30 pm. Everyone is invited to attend and to honor your 80th birthday.
Such a great guy. Happy Birthday Miggs!!
As someone that new Sage she was a wonderful person wonderful to no she will be missed to Robin and gabby I am here for you
Happy birthday Miggs from our entire family. Westport is so fortunate to have you and we feel equally fortunate to know you.
Happy Birthday Miggs….
Happy Birthday, Miggs!
If everyone were 1,000th as great and good as you are, what a wonderful world it would be!
Happy birthday migg
I remember summer 1967 rapsons
Long time ago
Happy Birthday Miggs! You don’t look a day over 60!
Happy Birthday dear Miggs!! 80 looks great on you!!
Sending deep condolences to the Hammond family.
Sage was a frequent visitor to the Crouse household and was always so warm and loving. Sending wishes for peace and healing to all that cared for her.
The Crouse Family
You are so tricky Miggs! That great head of hair that hasn’t changed also helps you remain ageless!
Remeber what we said, we both have so many westport things and events to still try! Happy Birthday! and thank you for sharing your talents all of these years!
Happy Birthday Miggs (B, on TV).
Yer Half Way to 160, keep yer foot on the gas!
Thanks for helping hold the seams of The 06880 together.
Peace Out m’Brutha!
David Squires (Staples ‘75)
You are not 80 Miggs – you’re 40 twice !
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday Miggs! Quick, somebody do something cool with that epic photo of him being the minuteman in today’s Woog. Regarding Justin Paul: I’ve said this before, I think the music from the Greatest Showman is some of the best music ever composed; in a league with Rogers and Hammerstein. Any of the songs should have won the Oscar that year. Staples should do the Greatest Showman stage play!