In the wake of last month’s Board of Education hearing to appeal the non-renewal of his contract as Staples High School boys soccer head coach, the 2008 graduate filed a complaint with the state Freedom of Information Commission.
Oost-Lievense said that he intends to challenge the hearing, and the Board’s decision not to renew his contract, in court.
However, he says, he is handicapped in litigation because “the Board unlawfully deliberated my nonrenewal in executive session.” He had repeatedly requested the hearing be held entirely in open session.
Stating that the public and he were deprived of the ability to evaluate and challenge the Board’s decision, he asks that the meeting be declared “null and void.”
Westport’s delegation in Hartford — State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — meet constituents tonight (Monday, June 16, 6 p.m.) in the Library’s Komansky Room (behind the stage).
It’s called an “End of Session Town Hall.” The public is invited, to learn about the legislative year that just ended.
From left: Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.
The Westport Museum for History & Culture celebrates Juneteenth (Thursday).
At 10 a.m., they’ll offer a guided walking tour through downtown. It’s based on the Museum’s previous exhibit on African Americans in Westport
Museum staff will share stories of soldiers, sailors, activisits, artists and other citizens who helped build this town, while pointing out historic sites and buildings.
And … after a brief Yankee Doodle Fair-induced detour to the Levitt pavilion parking lot, the Westport Farmers’ Market returns to its Imperial Avenue home this Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
It was a different venue last week, but the scenes were familiar to its many fans. For example:
Fresh strawberries, and …
… these regulars. They’re there every Thursday from a nearby office, always smiling and looking dapper. (Photos/Lori Cochran-Dougall)
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Congratulations to Adam Friedman!
The Westporter won the 123rd annual Connecticut Amateur golf championship.
The (very large) trophy was nice. Even better: Friedman earns an exemption into this year’s US Amateur event. It’s set for San Francisco’s Olympic Club, in August.
Friedman attended Staples as a freshman, then earned a scholarship to Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy in Florida. He attended Montverde Academy, and graduated in 2016 with high honors. Adam then played at Florida Atlantic University. His home course now is Great River Golf Club in Milford.
And finally … in honor of Jeffrey Cohen’s photo (above):
(Another week, another Roundup … and another request: If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
And not just at their day jobs, in departments like conservation, finance and human services.
For example, one is a former Division I basketball coach. One does voiceovers for national clients. And one is a barbecue chef.
Actually, they’re all the same person.
Candice Holley is our multi-talented director of human resources. Her office touches every resident, in some way.
But few Westporters know the woman at the helm.
Candice Holley
Holley earned high school All-America honors in her native Memphis. She was a a Conference USA All-Freshman at the University of Cincinnati. But after 2 cartilage injuries she transferred to the University of Mississippi, to be closer to home.
Her Memphis ties are strong. Her grandmother was arrested during civil rights sit-ins, and her aunt marched.
Holley headed to Seton Hall University as a grad assistant coach, then stayed in the East to work in human resources.
She lived in Fairfield Greenfield Hill, and worked with non-profit and for-profit organizations.
A consulting gig in the Dominican Republic was intriguing. She appreciated the chance to explore her Caribbean roots. But Holley missed her kids — they range in age from 15 to 7 — so when the Westport job opened up, it was a great opportunity.
She’s helped modernize a department that had been largely paper-driven.
In Westport Holley manages 17 departments, and 3 ancillary ones (Wakeman Town Farm, registrars of voters and the Library). Each is like its own small business, she says.
Her job is to make town employees’ lives easier. If there are disagreements, she helps determine the cause. Was there a poor process? Weak communications?
Whatever the reason, she provides tools for solutions.
There is a tendency, Holley says, for employees to say “we’ve always done it this way.” She gently tries to get buy-in from all, for new ways of doing things.
“HR is a service department,” Holley notes. “It’s so rewarding to see a system work well.”
Candice Holley, at her Town Hall desk … (Photo/Dan Woog)
She calls Westport “a special place. We want excellence, with world-class training, development and talent.”
Holley is involved in the hiring process too. She points to the recent selection of Erik Barbieri as Parks & Recreation Department director.
“He has the right temperament, and the synergy is great. Our job is to screen and find the best peopole, then help them succeed.”
The departure of longtime information technology director Eileen Zhang offers an opportunity for another important hire.
… and with Town Clerk Jeff Dunkerton, honoring longtime employee Ruth Cavayero …
Holley finds it rewarding to coach leaders through difficult conversations. But that’s not the only coaching she does.
This past winter, Holley got involved with Westport PAL’s 4th grade girls basketball team. “Ir’a important to make space in your life for the things you love,” she says. “These kids are so cool!
“Coaching is much more than basketball. It’s a chance to teach life lessons.”
She cherishes her players almost as much as her own children, with whom she now lives in Newtown. She survived cervical cancer at 25, but was told she could not have kids.
Like any good coach, Holley sat with doctors and developed a game plan.
… and on the runway, at this year’s Fashionably Westport show. (Photo/Dan Woog)
As for that voiceover work: Holley does it in her free time, in her home studio. She’s taught herself breathwork, cadence, and whatever else is needed for a wide array of clients. Holley has been heard urging everyone to “wear a mask for New York” — that was with Governor Cuomo — and to eat McDonald’s Chicken McGriddles.
She was also featured in several episodes of the NPR “Seizing Freedom” podcast. Holley read the letters of formerly enslaved people, who shared their experiences through Reconstruction.
In what free time she has, Holley brings the barbecue lessons she learned in Memphis to the kitchen. She smokes meats, grills, and makes her own dry rub and BBQ sauce.
Candice Holley thrives in Town Hall. And on the sidelines of the basketball court, and in her voiceover studio and kitchen.
Still — after life in Cincinnati, Mississippi, the Dominican Republic and New Jersey — she is never far from her Memphis roots.
“I’m the hopes and dreams of what my aunt and grandmother fought for,” she says. “I really believe that America is character over color.”
(Westport is filled with interesting people — and “06880” regularly shines a light on them. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Huge congratulations to the Staples High School boys lacrosse team.
That is: the state championship Staples laxmen.
The Wreckers used talent, smarts, power, poise and patience, outlasting Darien 7-6 yesterday in the “LL” (extra large schools) final at Fairfield University.
The #3-ranked Wreckers got the game-winner in the back-and-forth battle from — who else? — University of Michigan commit Adam Udell, with 1:44 to play in the 3rd quarter.
University of North Carolina-bound goalie Josh Marcus kept the#4-rated Blue Wave scoreless — and Staples did not score again — through the final period.
Coach Will Koshansky has created a juggernaut. The seniors graduate with 3 state championshps in their 4 years — and an FCIAC title the one year they were denied the Connecticut crown.
Well done, Wreckers!
From left: Senior captains Tristan Schaefer, Josh Marcus and Adam Udell, with their hardware.
Celebrating the win …
… and posing for the championship picture. (Photos/JC Martin)
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The Westport Country Playhouse’s 95th season will feature 3 plays.
Each — an Oscar Wilde comedy, a 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner and a classic Agatha Christie mystery — will run for 3 weeks.
That’s just the first act. The Playhouse will also offer 3 shorter-run events: a play based on a best-selling memoir, a family holiday show, and a big band celebration of Broadway musicals.
Wilde’s famous “The Importance of Being Earnest” kicks off the mainstage season (October 28-November 15).
“Primary Trust” — an uplifting, gentle and powerful exploration of change, friendship and quiet courage — runs April 14 to May 2.
“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,” by Christie, closes out the 2025-26 year July 14 to August 1.
The add-on productions include Mitch Albom’s “Tuesdays with Morrie” (September 4-6), the Playhouse tradition “A Sherlock Carol” (December 13-21), and “Big Band Broadway” (January 29 to February 1).
Unless they’re the ones playing in a rock band named for the medical shorthand “Do Not Resusciate.”
The (nearly) all-doctor group entertained their many fans — some of them, perhaps, patients whose lives they’ve saved — last night, at the Westport Library.
The benefit for the Library’s programs went off without a hitch.
And finally … in honor of the Staples boys lacrosse team (story above):
(“06880” Roundups are often filled with good news like big wins, information like Playhouse shows, and odd stuff like cones in the road. If you appreciate any of this, please click here to support us!)
Longtime Westporter and noted think-outside-the-box-er Scott Smith has watched the long debate about Westport’s athletic fields.
There are few, compared to neighboring towns. And there very few places to build new ones.
Scott may have a solution. He writes:
The biggest, most convenient site in Westport for ready-made new athletic fields, by far?
Sherwood Island State Park. There are acres and acres of flat grass fields, including a full-sized baseball diamond with rusted backstop, that could easily be refurbished into legit playing grounds for all kinds of sports.
Once upon a time, softball was played here. (Photo/Scott Smith)
These areas are rarely in use during the school year (and most, hardly even in the summer).
Of course, they would have to be equitably shared in any season by all, including local football leagues, rugby clubs and other users.
It’s a public-facility improvement that would not only benefit Westporters in search of new athletic fields to play on, but all Connecticut residents.
There is precedent for the state sharing Sherwood Island with other entities. I love watching the remote airplanes piloted by members of The Country Squire Modelers of Norwalk, a club that has operated by permit in the park since the 1960s.
Country Squire Modelers fly remote planes at Sherwood Island.
What’s more, Friends of Sherwood Island State Park — the nonprofit whose mission is to “preserve, maintain, improve and enhance Sherwood Island State Park for the benefit of the general public” — exists as a possible resource for expertise and connections.
I can’t speak for them, nor for the Westport athletic groups that I expect would be called on to share in the costs of upgrading and helping maintain the fields for their respective sports.
All would have to take part in the necessary negotiations to work out fair usage between town sports groups and others who might want to use them.
Open space at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Scott Smith)
I’ve long heard that “the state” is impossible to deal with. But given the recent botched dealings with the Department of Transportation over the state maintenance facility project, maybe it’s Westport town officials who are the problem?
I don’t want to sound hopelessly naïve. But why wouldn’t we want to explore a public-private partnership with the state that could result in enhanced fields for local athletes of all ages and abilities? Isn’t that what a public park is for?
(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Email 06880blog@gmail.com).
Among Sherwood Island State Park’s 232 acres: plenty of flat land.
Dave Briggs and I teamed up yesterday, for our first-ever Instagram Live chat.
It’s an important one. We chatted with Martin Purcell, one of the ROAN Ventures developers about their Hamlet at Saugatuck project.
We invited questions from viewers, and asked some of our own. They included traffic, employee parking, height and density — and who exactly ROAN Ventures is.
Click here or below to view the Insta Live. NOTE: It took a couple of minutes at the beginning for Martin to join the call. Indulge us as Dave and I fill dead air.
Wednesday’s Parks & Recreation Commission meeting (June 18, 7:30 p.m., Zoom) will, as is customary, hear reports from the Golf, Racquets and Parks Advisory Committees.
But 2 special agenda items will honor longtime local volunteers.
Commissioners will hear a request to install a plaque at Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve commemorating Sherry Jagerson. The environmental activist, who died last year at 80, played a key role in creating the small park on Hillspoint Road, following the demolition of Allen’s Clam House.
Sherry Jagerson, at Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve. (Photo/Monique Bosch)
They will also discuss a request to name the Compo Beach pickleball courts in honor of Tom Lowrie. The 96-year-old stepped down last month as the town’s “pickleball ambassador.” But he is still a strong advocate for the sport he helped popularize here in town.
Tom Lowrie (Photo/Pam Einarsen)
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From 5-6 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month, Village Pediatrics hosts an open house.
Before this month’s event they posed for Pride, with shirts that say “Proud to Care for Every Color of the Rainbow!”
Standing (from left): Genna Harrison, Dr. Stephen Grevious, Dr. Neysa McDonald, Dr. Nikki Gorman, Ashley Dushin. Front: Caleigh Porter (holding Dogtor Bill), Magali Sánchez, Taína Mercado, Evelyn Anderson (yellow shirt).
A 29-year-old East Orange, New Jersey man was charged with conspiracy to commit larceny, fugitive from justice and failure to appear, following a 2019 investigation into the passage of fake $100 bills. He was unablel to post $130,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations, between June 4-11:
Texting while driving: 6 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 6
“06880” reported recently that Steve Wheeler — a 1970 Staples High School graduate, who in 1974 became the first Connecticut runner to run a sub-4-minute mile — died suddenly in Oregon. He was 73. Here is his full obituary.
At Staples Wheeler captained the track and cross country teams, setting numerous school records.
At Duke University he won numerous Atlantic Coast Conference indoor and outdoor championships, and earned multiple All-American honors.
Wheeler set several Duke individual and relay team records, including the distance medley relay and 4 x mile relay.
In 1974 he became only the 67th athletes in the US to run a sub-4;00 mile.
Wheeler earned a master’s degree in public administration from San Diego State University in 1978, and began a 4-decade career in city and county administration.
He served as county administrator for Clackamas County, Oregon, and city manager for Tualatin and Hood River. He retired in 2018.
Wheeler was married to Nancy Newton, the current city manager of Springfield, Oregon. They shared a deep commitment to public service and civic leadership.
Wheeler was predeceased by his his brother Kenneth. He is survived by his wife Nancy Newton; his mother, Mary L. Reyen; his brother Warren; his children Jeffrey Wheeler (Emily, and grandson Tucker); niece Gwendolyn and nephew Owen Wheeler, and their mother Haynie Wheeler; niece Lauren Wheeler, and her mother Jeannine Wheeler. He is also remembered with respect by his former wife, Pat Wheeler.
Donations in Steve’s honor may be made to Springfield Rotary Charitable Foundation, PO Box 55, Springfield, OR 97477.
Steve Wheeler
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Village Pediatrics — mentioned in an item above — is popular with kids and parents.
And wildlife.
This guy popped up recently on the “Storywalk” — the children’s illustrations that line the walkway on the Saugatuck River, just outside the doctors’ office.
The photo comes from Dr. Nikki Gorman. She founded the practice — and finds time to take “Westport … Naturally” images like this.
And finally … James Lowe is nowhere near as famous as Brian Wilson and Sly Stone, 2 music legends who died this week.
But as the frontman for the Electric Prunes, Lowe — who died last month in California, at 82 — will be remembered by garage band fans for this hit:
(When was the last time you thought of the Electric Prunes? And when was the last time you supported “06880,” your hyper-local blog? To answer the second question, click here. Thanks!)
Last night, the Representative Town Meeting unanimously approved a new Long Lots Elementary School.
The long — and long-delayed — project got the final go-ahead, after recent approvals from a variety of other town bodies.
Artist’s rendering of the Long Lots Elementary School courtyard.
Work remains — including putting the $103.2 million contract out to bid.
The only delay would be a townwide referendum, based on the cost. A petition would need to be signed by 10% of registered voters — 1,860 people — by June 27.
But when the vote was over last night, town officials — including selectwomen, RTM and Board of Education members, and the Long Lots School Building Committee — headed the short distance from Town Hall to the Spotted Horse, to celebrate.
(Photo/Andrea Moore)
From left: Don O’Day, Jay Keenan, Tim Wetmore, Joe Renzulli, Kevin Christie, Srikanth Puttagunta, Liz Heyer. All are on the Long Lots School Building Commitee, including ex officio members Christie (Board of Education) and Heyer (Board of Finance). (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
The Staples High School boys lacrosse team shoots for the state championship tomorrow (Saturday).
The Wreckers — seeded #3 in the “LL” (extra large schools) tournament — take on #4 Darien. Faceoff is 12:30 p.m., at Fairfield University.
That’s the same stadium where — 3 days ago — the blue-and-whites scored a spectacular semifinal victory.
Down 9-5 with less than 5 minutes to play, they stunned #2 Ridgefield with 5 straight goals. Tristan Schaefer netted the game winner, with just 2.4 seconds remaining.
Will Fleming had tied it up 9-9, with 33 seconds to go. Adam Udell notched the 2 goals before that.
Coach Will Koshansky’s squad is gunning for their 3rd state title in 4 years. They won it all in 2022 and ’23 — the first Connecticut championships in their history.
Go Wreckers!
Tristan Schaefer (91) celebrates his clutch game-winning goal against Ridgefield. (Photo courtesy of Staples Boys Lacrosse)
Speaking of sports: Last August, Ben Casparius was pulled up from the minor leagues, to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Two months later, he helped pitch them to a World Series championship.
This spring, the 2017 Staples High School graduate secured a roster spot with the team, as a relief pitcher.
Now he’s a starter.
According to MLBTradeRumors.com, “he’s done nothing but produce in the majors …. His 44 innings of work this season have seen him produce a 2.86 ERA with a 1.89 FIP while striking out 26.0% of his opponents and walking just 5.1%. Those numbers are nothing short of brilliant.”
The Yankee Doodle Fair — for a century, Westport’s favorite end-of-school tradition — opened last night.
It continues today and this weekend, at the Westport Woman’s Club and adjacent Imperial Avenue parking lot.
Today (Friday) it’s 6 to 10 p.m. Tomorrow (Saturday) the fair runs from 1 to 10 p.m. It winds up Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m.
In addition to carnival rides and games, there is plenty of food. And, of course, a raffle. Proceeds from the fair help the Woman’s Club fund many charitable activities and scholarships.
(Photo/Lauri Weiser)
More photos to come tomorrow, from the very talented Ryan Allen!
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Elle Michel Deran is an actor, the founder of Pussyboy Apparel, one of the nation’s leading trans influencers, and a 2013 Staples High School graduate.
Now — smack in the middle of Pride Month — she and Ezra Deran Michel are featured in a Cosmpolitan project called “Love Transcends.”
In it, the couple — who just moved from Los Angeles to a tiny town in Jalisco, Mexico — talkabout why they left the US, sobriety, “how accountability can be sexy, and why both being trans makes it easier to cope whenever their relationship gets tough.”
The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens tomorrow (Saturday, June 14).
It will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It features fresh produce, honey, artisanal baked goods, extra virgin olive oils and gourmet balsamic vinegars, Chaga mushroom elixirs and salsas — plus fresh cut flower bouquets and WTF logowear.
Visitors can also walk through the gardens, say hi to the animals, and chat with the farmers.
Meanwhile, Wakeman Town Farm is looking for volunteers (ages 16+) to prepare and plant gardens (Wednesdays and Fridays, 2 to 4:30 p.m.). Email info@wakemantownfarm.org.
Among their many tasks, Westport’s League of Women Voters does a great job educating residents about the political process — everything from registering and voting, to why municipal elections are important.
Yesterday, LWV members got educated themselves.
The guest speaker at their annual luncheon was Stephanie Thomas. Connecticut’s secretary of the state spoke in depth — and passionately — about our relatively new early voting process. She provided background, statistics, and strong affirmation for its impact on turnout.
She also stressed the need for continuing voter education.
That’s what the League of Women Voters does constantly. And as Thomas knows, in Westport they do it very, very well.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, at the LWV’s annual meeting at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Much of today’s national politics has been called a dumpster fire. We can argue that all day.
But yesterday, there was a literal dumpster fire on Hales Court.
Quick work by the Westport Fire Department kept it from spsreading to a nearby residence.
There are still a few random spots in town — a bank and store, for example — with signs or floor decals reminding patrons of the need for “social distance.”
That COVID-era phrase is now just a bad memory. If we notice the notices at all, we just ignore them.
But what about these signs, at Fresh Market?
(Photo/Dan Woog)
When was the last time anyone called in a curbside order?
Probably the same time the sidewalk and road in front of the entrance was not under construction.
Julie Loparo of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates writes: “We hope to find not only a possible owner, but to secure donations for a young cat’s emergency care.
“After being struck by a car on Tuesday, on Easton Road, he was taken to the VCA emergency clinic in Norwalk by Westport animal control officer Joe Saponare. He has been treated for shock, abrasions and a fractured pelvis.
“He will be released to the care of a WASA volunteer today. His emergency care to date has cost $2,750. Donations can be made here. For more information, email wasa1@optonline.net, or call (203) 557-0361.
Emergency cat care needed.
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Speaking of animals: Deer are everywhere in Westport.
Including Old Mill Beach.
Robin Tauck spotted this pair yesterday — heading in opposite directions — and sent us this photo, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Robin Tauck)
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And finally … happy Friday the 13th!
(From sports stars to trans influencers, and Wakeman Town Farm to the League of Women Voters, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
It’s one of Staples High School’s newest — and best — traditions.
A couple of days before graduation, seniors visit the 5 elementary schools where they started their Westport education years ago.
Wearing caps and gowns, they greet “old” teachers (and classrooms). Youngsters watch reverently, and begin thinking of their own futures.
The photo below, from yesterday’s event at Saugatuck Elementary School, shows the many soon-to-be grads from Staples — plus 4 classmates who graduated the other day from Greens Farms Academy grads — along with SES mascot Saugy the Seal.
Several dozen other seniors headed back to Long Lots Elementary.
A couple of years from now though, returning students from that school will not recognize their alma mater.
Last night, the Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved a new 8-24 plan for construction of a new Long Lots. That was a major hurdle on the road to a modern, $100+ million building.
The process continues tonight, with meetings of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Education and Finance Committees (Tuesday, 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., respectively; both in Town Hall Room 201).
Tomorrow (Wednesday, June 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Board of Finance meets to okay the project. Final approval could come Thursday (June 12, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) from the full RTM.
The new Long Lots Elementary School.
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A few hours after the looking-back elementary schools event, seniors gazed forward.
Staples Tuition Grants handed out $400,000 in scholarships, to 102 recipients. (Some are already in college, and have received previous grants.) They’re attending 71 schools.
Marcus Harper — father of Max Harper, a ’25 member who died in an accident last September — spoke about a new initiative: the Live Life to the Max Award. It helps students suffering from ADHD.
Galen Blumenthal — a 2008 recipient, and former Staples Player and Student Assembly member — described his journey from the University of Texas to his return to Westport, as a management consultant. He urged the recipients to never be afraid to ask for help, and to always give back.
He’s doing that himself. Galen just joined the Staples Tuition Grants board.
Some of the 2025 Staples Tuition Grants honorees. (Photo/Rebecca Mace)
The swimmer — the best in Staples High School history, and perhaps the state — just swam the 4th fastest time in the US for the 50 free (24.62), in the 17-18 age group.
That’d faster than the time posted by the current world record holder, Gretchen Walsh (now 22), when she competed in the event at that age.
Annam is also the only 18-and-under swimmer to compete in the women’s 50 meter freestyle final at the 2025 U.S. Championships. And: She earned a spot on the World Junior team, and will compete in Romania this summer.
But wait — there’s more!
Annam also co-chairs the Westport Youth Commission.
And she is secretary of Staples’ Teen Awareness Group.
It should be no surprise to anyone that she will swim for Stanford University this fall.
And go far beyond that, in life.
Annam Olasewere
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“John Proctor is the Villain” — produced by Westporter Eric Falkenstein, and co-produced by residents Ben Frimmer and Ari Benmosche — did not win a Tony on Sunday for Best New Play.
But our town was well represented on the Radio City Music Hall stage anyway.
Staples High School graduate Justin Paul and his writing partner (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”) joined Marc Shaiman and Scott Witman to write the award show’s opening number (performed by host Cynthia Erivo). Click below to see:
Speaking of “John Proctor”: Westport resident and veteran TV journalist Anne Craig interviewed Ben Frimmer — the Staples High graduate/Coleytown Middle School theater teacher/director mentioned in the item above — about his involvement as a producer.
He too has a Justin Paul connection. Click below or below to learn more.
Speaking of plays: Staples Players’ recent presentation of “The Diary of Anne Frank” was a powerful staging of the inspiring story drawn from the writings of the German teenager, who for nearly 2 years hid from Nazi with her family and others, in a small annex behind an Amsterdam warehouse wall.
It was, audiences agreed, a show that is important to be seen by young students — particularly in these times.
Fortunately, it was.
The high school drama troupe gave 3 special performances during school hours. The result: every Westport Public Schools 8th grader saw the show, for free.
Those youngsters also met Andy Sarkany. The 89-year-old Hungary native immigrated to the US. He earned master’s degrees in math and computer science, worked for McDonnell Douglas and IBM, and has spent the past decade speaking to students about his experiences during the Holocaust, livng under the brutal Soviet regime, and finding a home in this country.
Bedford Middle School principal Adam Rosen says that the Players’ show “brought real emotional depth to what students have been exploring in the Human Rights Unit.”
Janna Sirowich, Coleytown Middle School principal, adds, “It aligns perfectly with our curriculum. But more importantly it provides our students with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on history, empathy, and resilience.”
Andy Sarkeny, on the “Anne Frank” set, talks with 8th graders. (Photo/Kerry Long)
Speaking of theater: Last night’s Westport Country Playhouse script in hand reading of “The Shark is Broken” offered a clever, behind-the-scenes look at the making of “Jaws.” The groundbreaking film is now 50 years old.
From left: Actors Ciaran Byrne, Patrick Halley, Seth Andrew Bridges, Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan, stage director Faith Sandberg. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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An update on HB5002, the controversial omnibus housing bill passed by the state General Assembly last week:
Though it has been sent to Governor Lamont — and he was widely expected to sign it — he has not yet done so.
CT Mirror reports that after heated opposition to the bill this weekend, the governor may call a special session, for revisions. Click here for the full story.
Governor Lamont — shown here at the Westport Library — has not yet signed the housing bill. (Photo/Ryan Allen)
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Peonies look beautiful all the time.
But they’re especially lovely when tinged with raindrops, as in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image:
And finally … Sly Stone, who the New York Times calls an “influential, eccentric and preternaturally rhythmic singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer whose run of hits in the late 1960s and early ’70s with his band the Family Stone could be dance anthems, political documents or both,” died yesterday in Los Angeles.
He was 82, and had battled lung disease and other health issues.
Sly & the Family Stone played 2 memorable concerts in Westport, a month apart.
On May 25, 1968 — a year after their debut “Dance to the Music” rocketed them to the top — they played at a “sock hop,” in the Staples High School gym.
On June 25 that same year, they were on stage at the Longshore Inn. I had finished 9th grade at Long Lots Junior High the week before. A couple of friends and I snuck into the ballroom (it wasn’t hard).
I’ve seen plenty of concerts since then. I’ve never been closer at one to a mega-star — or been to a show with more raw energy, power and life.
(From Broadway to Westport — and everywhere else — readers rely on “06880” for all the local news, features and music. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Staples High School’s 25th annual Scholar-Athlete dinner last night was — as always — a highlight of graduation week.
Athletic director VJ Sarullo and coaches presented plaques to one senior from each varsity sport. They were honored for their achievements beyond the field, court, track or pool. They were leaders in the classroom too, and the community.
Each answered one question about their academic interests, passions and hobbies. Those ranged from cancer research with fruit flies to ballroom dancing; from using a 3D printer to create prosthetic limbs, to gardening.
There are 40 varsity sports at Staples. Fall honorees were Sawyer Dalzell, Annabel Edwards, Tyla Ozgen, Perrin Root, Samantha Sandrew, Megan Sargent, Danielle Schwartz, Leo Skatoff, Aidan Stubbs, Grace Zhang and Sam Zwick-Lavinsky.
Winter sports honorees were Sofia Alarcon-Frias, Alessandro Alderucci, Rhiya Anand, Will Boberski, Audrey Curtis, Josh Ginsburg, Alexandra Hackett, Ella Harrington, Alexis Krenzer, Cooper Paul, Katherine Phelps, Tyler Signorile, Adam Udell, Evan Wallitt and Ben Zwick.
Spring sports honorees were Mark Adipietro, Nina Bowens, Ben Cukier, Shreyas Gorre, Madeline Hendley, Nate Hordon, Sophia Novello, Rachel Pontoriero, Cameron Prior, Vivian Shamie, Ryan Tzou, Edward van der Merwe and Sadie Vincini.
Sarullo handed out other awards too. The athletic department’s top 2 honors — the Thomas DeHuff and Jinny Parker Awards — went to Jake Goldshore and Addison Coughlin, respectively.
Laddie Lawrence Foundation scholarships of $7,000 each were presented to Sam Rondon, Preston Sirok and Sam Zwick-Lavinsky.
Nolan Francis won the Junior Leadership Award.
FCIAC Life Teammate Awards went to Brian Divino and Molly Whittle.
Prepzone founder Steve Divino and longtime trainer Corey Iamonico received Staples Athletics Appreciation Awards.
Staples High School athletic director VJ Sarullo, and trainer Corey Iamonico. (Photo/Michelle Garrity)
Speaking of sports: James Delorey sends this “love letter to Westport Little League”:
“On Saturday, the Westport Little League presented Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Awards in each of the league’s 4 divisions. What a beautiful day!
“Players nominate the teammate they believe exemplifies sportsmanship and effort to improve. The coaches say the kids ‘get it,’ and always seem to nominate players who, like Perrin, may not the star players but support their teammates and do their best to improve their game.
“Seven years ago this month — even before Perrin’s funeral had taken place — Westport Little League held a moving celebration of his life. They retired his Cubs #5 on the wall of Kowalsky Field, where he played his last game days before, and announced their intention to make sure players and their families remembered him and his spirit.
“Every year we hear from the Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award nominees, and the winners and their families, about how much this award means to them.
“Yesterday Perrin’s sisters Mireille and Elodie got to celebrate with some of the nominees and winners — including one who lives on our road and who never met Perrin — and hear how Perrin’s memory is now a meaningful part of their lives. Tears now as I write.
“Our family is so grateful to Westport Little League and to the players, coaches and families who join, give, volunteer, and do their best to build a community of good. Play ball!”
AA Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Rivington Hall (holding plaque), with fellow AA Division nominees, Perrin’s father James, and sisters Mireille and Elodie Delorey. (Photo/Adam Hall)
Presentation to AAA Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Benjamin Gionfriddo. (Photo/Brian Marcucio )
A Division nominees with Perrin’s friend, Staples High School junior Harrison Sydor. Finnegan McDuffie (not pictured) was the A Division winner. Other nominees were (from left) James Ettinger, Patrick Downing, Kyle McInerny and Colton Galati. Also not shown: Royal Anderson. (Photo/Brian Marcucio)
Majors Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Sam Katz. (Photo/Bill Ryan)
One of the founding members of the all-female Troop 139, just finishing her junior year at Staples, she had her Eagle Court of Honor yesterday.
Jordan’s parents are heavily involved in scouting. Katherine O’Brien served as Troop 139 scoutmaster for many years, while her father Andy O’Brien is scoutmaster of Troop 36 (where Jordan’s 2 brothers are also Scouts.)
Jordan O’Brien (center) and her family. (Hat tip and photo/Maggie Gomez)
Werner Liepolt says: “Respect your local snapping turtle” — especially during egg laying season. “She can easily snap off a finger, or a dog’s nosy nose.”
He “snapped” today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo on Green Acre Lane.
The topic of yesterday’s Y’s Men panel, before a packed Westport Library crowd, was “how the media covered the first 100 days of the Trump administration.”
But panelists roamed freely, with most talking more generally about the role of the media in today’s polarized world.
Congressman Jim Himes noted that the founding fathers believed the press must be independent of the president. However, he said, “I don’t think any media outlet can or should be impartial. It’s up to as news consumers to learn and understand bias. If we can’t do that, then democracy is in danger.” He said he was “harsher on citizenry than the media.”
Former Fox News and CNN journalist (and Westport resident) Alisyn Camerota said, “We’re taught in journalism school to be conscious of our biases, and to check them at the door.”
She added, “It’s hard and perilous to be a journalist right now. We’re in the middle of an earthquake. Institutions are shaking and collapsing around us. We’re in the middle of the 1st Amendment doorway. When the shaking stops, will still have ’60 Minutes’ or CNN?”
The good news, she said, is that as journalists “scatter” from traditional media outlets, they wind up at “thousands” of places like Substack and podcasts. There, there are “no overlords.”
Veteran News12 anchor Rebecca Surran discussed the difficulty of maintaining “down-the-middle” coverage, particularly as economic woes hit outlets like hers, and news sources like the AP are banned from the White House.
She warned that although there are “thousands of ways to get news today, don’t stay in an echo chamber. Consume news you don’t feel comfortable with, too.”
Former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe noted that despite the demise of papers like the Westport News and Minuteman, Westport is not a “news desert” like many locations. He cited coverage by “06880,” and reporting by Westport Journal.
Fairfield University assistant professor of politics Aaron Weinstein called the ability to undersand a poll “one of the most imporant skills” a citizen can have.
From left: Aaron Weinstein, Jim Marpe, Rebecca Surran, Alisyn Camerota, Jim Himes, John Brandt. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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HB 5002 — the omnibus housing bill that could bring big changes to municipalities across the state — has been passed by the Connecticut House of Representatives and Senate. It now awaits Governor Lamont’s signature.
This morning, Westport 1st Selectman — in her capacity as a gubernatorial candidate – said:
“If signed into law by Governor Lamont, House Bill 5002: An Act Concerning Housing and the Needs of Homeless Persons, will be the biggest assault on local zoning control in Connecticut in over 30 years.
“Framed as a measure to help our homeless population, instead it represents a fundamental change in how communities make decisions, plan for the future, and serve the needs of all residents.
“The negative consequences will be felt for decades to come as it undermines local town operational management and zoning, and the voices of residents in decision-making.
“A one-size-fits-all approach does not work. HB 5002 will fundamentally transform local zoning across our beautiful state, radically changing the face of our unique towns and cities without any planning, infrastructure investment or regard for our natural resources. It’s time for housing policy that respects our residents and business owners, our environment, and the autonomy of our municipalities.
“Advancing affordable housing and ending homelessness are goals that I not only believe in, but have taken action on. As Westport’s 1st Selectwoman, I have helped champion a common-sense, collaborative approach to create diverse housing. This includes pursuing text amendments to convert Town-owned buildings to affordable housing, and deed-restricting Town-owned property to serve as congregate housing (the first in the State to do so).
“Westport received the Community Champion Award by the CT Coalition to End Homelessness as a result of our innovative efforts. This is the work towns can do with community support, local decision-making and visionary leadership. HB 5002 strips planning and zoning control from our towns and gives it to the state and to developers. That’s wrong for Connecticut. That’s wrong for our residents and our business owners. We can do better.”
The kids-first nonprofit is running 2 grade-level track and fitness clinics, from June 23 through July 17, at the Staples High School track.
They combine athletic training with specialized event instruction.
The session for grades 3-7 (9 to 10:30 a.m.) focus on specific events. The one for grades 7-8 (10:30 to noon) includes strength, movement and flexibility. More details and registration is available here.
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To honor Pride Month, Temple Israel invites the entire LGBTQ+ communities — and allies — to a “joyful and inclusive Pride Shabbat.”
The June 13 (6:30 p.m.) service includes music from the temple’s artist in residence, Elana Arian. It will be followed by a festive oneg (social gathering), and more music by Arian, with Cantors Julia Cadrain and Becky Mann.
A celebration of the life of Carol Randel — the longtime Westport, noted professor and beloved civic volunteer, who died last week — is set for 4 p.m. on June 29. The public is invited.
The setting is appropriate: the Saugatuck Rowing Club. That’s where Carol discovered herself as an athlete, found joy on the water and camaraderie with teammates. She won plenty of medals there too.
Carol Randel
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Humans prefer to fish alone.
These guys — not so much.
Mark Laclair spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” scene on Harbor Road.
They teach goal-setting. Perseverance. Dealing with disappointment. Learning to win with class, and lose without being a jerk.
Working as a team. Working with different personalities. Pushing your body. Having fun. The thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat.
Youth sports are also so bad, on so many levels.
There are parental pressures, and unrealistic expectations. Coaches’ pressures, with their own unrealistic expectations. The high cost of “pay to play.” Specialization. Burnout.
Misplaced values. Time. Traveling each weekend to play “showcase” tournaments (which really aren’t), against teams from the next town.
The other night, “06880” teamed up with young adult author Tommy Greenwald, to present a special panel.
“Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World” focused on many of the issues noted above.
It was an expert group. They hit it out of the park.
Panelists included:
Tommy Greenwald: former Staples High School soccer state champion captain; father of 3 athletes; author of several books highlight the pressures and joys of youth sports
VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback, basketball and All-American lacrosse star, who played football and club lacrosse this year at the University of Connecticut
Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official.
If you missed the panel — perhaps you were picking up your kids from practice, or coaching a team yourself — we’ve got you covered.
(Panels like this one are one more service of “06880.” If you enjoy the many ways we cover — and educate — our community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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