Category Archives: Sports

Remembering Joey Arciola

Posted on February 20, 2023 | 12 comments

Westport native and longtime, well-respected Parks & Recreation Department employee Joseph “Joey” Arciola died peacefully on February 14. He was 52 years old.

Joey came from a long line of family members who served the town of Westport, as Public Works employees, police officers, firefighters and teachers.

Joey was retired from Parks & Rec, where he started his career as dock master at the age of 19. He worked his way to foreman for the department.

Joey Arciola

Joey was an avid sailor, hiker and camper. He loved Cockenoe Island. He was a passionate sports fan who never missed a Yankees, New York Rangers or Dallas Cowboys game.

His family says: “Joey devoted himself to his friends and family with unwavering commitment, love and loyalty. Throughout his life, he prided himself on making everyone around him a better person as well.”

Joey is survived by his parents, Sam Arciola Jr. and Jo Ann (Austin) Arciola, brother Sam Arciola III (Kelly), nephews Sam Arciola IV and Dominic Arciola whom he adored and treasured, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joey’s memory to Save the Sound.

Friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial this Friday (February 24, 10 a.m., Assumption Church).

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Longtime friend Andrew Colabella adds a tribute to Joey. He writes:

Joey Arciola lived and loved like every day was his last day fearlessly. He was a man who lived life to the fullest.

Today, Joey would have been 53. Six days ago, Joey left the earth, after making an imprint on thousands of lives.

Joey grew up in Westport, with his wonderful brother Sam. His hardworking parents, Samuel and Joanne, who still live in the same house today, still happily married. They followed in the same footsteps as their father, serving Westport.

Their father worked at the sewage treatment plant. Sam recently retired from the Westport Police Department, with over 30 years of service. Joey started working for the town on the docks and marinas, eventually making his way to the Parks & Recreation maintanence division as a laborer.

Joey spent the next 20-plus years in that department shape the town’s athletic and recreational fields. His work partner was Joey Saviano (click here),

The 2 Joes could be seen riding around in Truck 100, a blue single cab long bed, checking on all their hard work. Joey was easy to spot, always in cargo shorts, sneakers, a Yankees ball cap with perfectly trimmed short hair, walking fast on the ball of his feet.

He never stopped moving, except to stop at Junior’s Hot Dog Stand. He’d sit at the counter having lunch with the other Westport local legends and celebrities. His cousin Jeff was behind the counter.

In 8 hours his crew of guys had the lines stripped, grass rolled and cut, PH soil levels balanced, sprinklers timed, baseball fields ready, beach raked, trash picked up, guardrails weed whacked, and equipment ready to go. It all fell under Joey.

The town was ready to go, for all to enjoy. His style of management was sincere, yet tough. He expected the work that day to be done. But if variables beyond our control prevented completion, Joey would either show up to pitch in and help, never afraid but excited to teach, or call before it was started so that no one’s time was wasted. Joey was resourceful, fast thinking and organized.

Joey was elected president of his union, AFSCME 1303-194. He fearlessly went head to head with any and all for fair wages, incentives, protecting pensions and benefits for his employees. Joey knew the value of his talented workers and colleagues, and how much family meant to him.

Joey Arciola, enjoying Cockenoe Island. (Photo courtesy of Linda Gilleran)

Joey had no kids, but was there every step of the way from the birth of his nephews Samuel and Dominic. Those independent and successful bright boys both graduated from Staples, and went on to the University of Alabama.

Joey’s extended family members all too were influenced by his strong determination to give all and be all. Hard work, dedication and loyalty runs in all their blood.

If he had not employed me in his department for 9 years seasonally as I juggled school full time, I am not sure where I would be today. Joey gave me a chance. He gave me life, an education, knowledge, strength, determination, laughter (a lot), honesty and integrity. But he was also a boss at the same time. Respect was given and returned.

So whether you are an Arciola or a Meier, a child or adult who played on any of our athletic and recreational fields in town, or visited the Saugatuck restaurants and bars, or if you were lucky enough to go to a Yankees game with Joey, his impact is eternal.

So as I write this, knowing I unfortunately will not see Joey tomorrow, or every other tomorrow for the remainder of my existence, the ripples of his fingerprint on earth in this town will remain for decades to come.

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Pic Of The Day #2134

Posted on February 19, 2023 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2134

Longshore golf course (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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Roundup: Super Bowl, Ukraine Fur Coats, Moon Telescope …

Posted on February 13, 2023 | 8 comments

Westport was not represented on the field, at last night’s Super Bowl.

But our neighbor Christian Siriano was part of the action. At least, part of one of the multimillion-dollar ads.

The fashion designer — whose Collective West store is a popular Post Road East destination — was there in the front row, in a “Clueless”-themed Rakuten advertisement with Alicia Silverstone.

(Screenshot and hat tip/Dave Briggs)

There must have been other “06880”/Super Bowl connections. If you know of any, click “Comments” below.

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Speaking of the Super Bowl: On Saturday residents flocked to Stop & Shop, stocking up for the big game.

Many paused at both entrances. Members of the Sunrise Rotary Club, Westport Police Department, Westport Police Athletic League and Representative Town Meeting were there to collect non-perishable items.

From a couple of cans to a few full shopping carts, generous Westporters reaped rewards for 2 great causes: Homes with Hope, and our Department of Human Services food pantries. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Westport Police Department officials and others, with food at the Gillespie Center. Rear, from left: Officers Sean Doyle and David Lovallo, Chief Foti Koskinas, RTM member Andrew Colabella, Officers Scott Thompson and Dominique Carr. Front: unidentified, and Anna Rycenga of the Westport PAL.

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Not everyone who wanted to, could make it to the coat-and-more collection drive for Ukraine, at the last 2 Westport Farmers’ Markets.

Organizer Mark Yurkiw said he’d accept donations at his home.

Yesterday, he welcomed a big one. Several Rowayton residents showed up in 5  cars. All were completely filled with clothes and other gear — including fur coats. It took an oversized van to truck it all to Redding, where it will be crated and shipped overseas.

The Rowayton folks said they felt powerless to help — until they heard of the coat drive. They asked what else they could bring, and do.

Mark continues to accept donations. Email mark.think3d@gmail.com for details.

From Rowayton to Ukraine, with live. Artist Mark Yurkiw created the Ukrainian symbol on his garage door.

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The next community trash pick-up takes place this Sunday (February 19, 11 a.m.) at the Westport train station.

The meeting place is the lower level parking lot on the New York-bound side, next to Luciano Park (near the EV chargers).

All volunteers are welcome. Bring trash bags, gloves and boots, and dress warmly.

Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

A previous trash pick-up, on Greens Farms Road.

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The Westport Astronomical Society’s 25 Obsession telescope has been a workhorse for over 30 years.

But it’s a beast — and very difficult to set up and take on the road. With great attendance at their public nights, the WAS needs another instrument.

It’s got to be powerful — but light enough to pack it up and set it outside, for sidewalk astronomy.

They’ve got their eyes set (ho ho) on a New Moon Telescope — 20″, with an f3.5 mirror and some cool add-ons.

For nearly a decade, they’ve fundraised on Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Giving Day. They’ll do it again on February 23. Their goal is $10,000.

The 24-hour online drive is a local competition. All tax-deductible contributions could help WAS win major prizes. Mark your calendar for February 23 — and bookmark your calendar here.

New Moon telescope.

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It’s hard to know who had a better time Saturday night, at the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s first-ever Winter Ball: the young girls, or their dads (or other loved ones) who escorted them.

A crowd of over 100 danced to a DJ, enjoyed refreshments, and visited a photo booth and nail painter.

Attendees also brought food items, and made other donations to Homes with Hope.

Jay and Sophia Skye Norris visit the photo booth, at the Y’s first Winter Ball.

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The other day, 12 Coleytown Middle School students participated in the Southwestern Connecticut “Mathcounts” competitions. Adan Wang, Adrianna Gavriloiu, Ayush Rudra and Owen Wood finished second. All 4 mathletes will represent the school at the state competition next month. 

Ayush, Owen and Adan finished #1, 7 and 11 respectively in the individual competition.

Other Coleytown competitors included Adrianna Gavriloiu, Akil Arvind, Anit Arvind, Zylan Wang, Luke Cooper, Ulysses Nixon, Alex Liakh, Justin Jendrock and Luci Trinchi.

Congratulations to all!

Joining the competition host and Coleytown Middle School Math Club coach Archi Rudra are (from left) Adan Wang, Ayush Rudra, Owen Wood and Adrianna Gavriloiu.

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Marcello Deaguero is a noted local DJ for schools, charities, parties, bar and bat mitzvahs — and the instructor for the popular “Dance with Marcello.”

He recently relocated his class to a new studio. It’s in the back of the Dance Collective building (222 Post Road West).

Marcello is celebrating the move with free classes throughout the month. Everyone — from people who know him through his DJ work, to newcomers looking for a good dance or fitness class — is welcome for free, all month long.

Click here for more information.

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Today is the 47th anniversary of Dorothy Hamill’s near-perfect, gold medal-winning, ice skating performance at the Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria.

The Greenwich native became an international superstar. In 1993, an AP poll ranked her and Mary Lou Retton as the most popular athletes in America, far ahead of people like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Troy Aikman, Dan Marino, Wayne Gretzky, Joe Montana and Nolan Ryan.

Today, Greenwich’s town-owned rink is named for Dorothy Hamill.

But in 1976, Westport took pride in her accomplishments too. As a youngster, she frequently skated on Round Pond, off Compo Road South — just opposite the entrance to Longshore, where her relatives lived.

Click here for more on Dorothy Hamill, thanks to “Today in Connecticut History.”

Dorothy Hamill, in 1976.

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Last week John Hamilton and Fiona Wilkes of Liberation Programs — a Bridgeport-based nonprofit that provides support to people with substance use disorders — addressed the Westport Rotary Club.

Liberation president and CEO Hamilton noted that fentanyl has surpassed heroin and other opiates as a leading cause of drug overdoses. With 100,000 overdoses per year nationally, the need for recovery programs has increased dramatically. But only 1 out of 10 people who qualify for treatment reaches out and accepts it.

Wilkes — the director of development and communications — said that all households should have the opiate overdose treatment Narcan in their medicine cabinets.

John Hamilton of Liberation Programs, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Today’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast features 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor’s interview with the town’s public safety communications director, Larry Roberts.

It’s the first in a 2-part discussion of the Connecticut Land Mobile Radio Network, the statewide emergency communications system that will provide important coverage for area towns.

Click below to listen. The podcast is a service of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day.

Weston’s Jolantha gets ready to pig out.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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At Christmastime, there are only 7 swans a-swimming.

The other day, “Westport … Naturally” photographer Rick Benson counted more at Sherwood Mill Pond.

He did not see 6 (Canada) geese a-laying. Happily, there was not even one.

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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And finally … Peter Tork was born today, in 1942.

The Monkees’ keyboardist and bass guitarist grew up in northeastern Connecticut; his father was an economics professor at the University of Connecticut. He was a member of the first-ever graduating class at E.O. Smith High School in Storrs.

Tork — whose real last name was Thorkelson — had cousins who attended school in Westport.

He died in Mansfield, Connecticut in 2019, 10 years after being diagnosed with cancer.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Police, Politics, Sports, Weston, YMCA

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Team Velominati Powers Pan-Mass Challenge

Posted on February 12, 2023 | Comments Off on Team Velominati Powers Pan-Mass Challenge

In music, there’s the Beatles. In soccer, Messi.

In fundraising, the Pan-Mass Challenge stands far above all others. The Massachusetts bike ride earns more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the US. Since 1980, it’s donated $900 million to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Last year alone, it was $65 million.

And in the Pan-Mass Challenge, Team Velominati is the Beatles and Messi, rolled into one.

The group — many of them Westporters — raised $675,000. Last year.

Bill Loftus — the founder of Coastal Bridge Advisers, a Wilton Road wealth management firm — is a crucial part of the team. He joined a few years ago.

Instantly, he was hooked.

Team captain Dave Hazard and Bill Loftus cross the finish line at mile 192 in Provincetown last August. Additional Team Velominati members ride in behind them.

Bill is one of 2,500 riders going the full distance: 112 miles from Sturbridge to Bourne on Saturday; then another 90 miles to Provincetown the next day.

Another 3,500 ride shorter distances, for one day.

Up to a quarter of all riders are cancer survivors.

“The human spirit is on full display,” Bill says. “It feels like the entire state is cheering us on.” Streets are filled with spectators. Bands play; cowbells ring.

The energy of the crowd — and the camaraderie of the riders — keeps him going.

Team Velominati always looks for new members. (The group rides in other fundraisers too, like the Bloomin’ Metric. They ski together too, in winter. But the Pan-Mass Challenge is the big one.)

Each team member commits to raising at least $6,500. Some do far more.

Bill notes that 100% of all funds go directly to cancer research. There are only a few paid staff members for the entire Challenge — and their salaries are covered by corporate sponsors.

“When I started, I wondered how I could give up a weekend in the summer,” Bill says.

“But never once did I feel like I missed anything. This is the best possible use of my time. It’s the best weekend of the year.”

(To learn more about the Pan-Mass Challenge — and how to join Team Velominati — email dhazard@gmail.com.)

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Roundup: Turkey Quake, Tailgate Party, Casket …

Posted on February 11, 2023 | 4 comments

George and Libya Kocadag moved to Westport years ago, from Turkey. Many Westporters know him as one of the friendliest members of the very friendly Trader Joe’s staff. She shares her wonderful baked goods, yogurt and hummus with everyone (those great raspberry cookies at Layla’s Falafel are hers).

Libya’s family lives in Samandag, Turkey, not far from the center of the recent earthquake. In the aftermath of the devastation — with lives lost and houses destroyed — the Kocadags are asking for help.

She set up a GoFundMe page. The goal is $20,000. All money will go directly to Samandag. Click here to contribute. (Hat tip: Danielle Teplica)

A small part of the devastation in Turkey and Syria.

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Whether you’re rooting for Kansas City or Philadelphia, or have no idea who’s playing: Everyone is invited to tomorrow’s Super Bowl tailgate party (Sunday, February 12, 12:30 to 4 p.m.).

It’s at the Senior Center — but all ages are welcome. The afternoon includes hot dogs, spring rolls, chips and cake, and a guess-the-score contest.

Former director Sue Pfister will be honored, along with the state champion Staples High School girls soccer and boys lacrosse teams. The Staples cheerleaders will be there too.

The only thing missing: the game. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m. — 2 hours after the party ends.

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The Post Road East log pile has been an object of fascination and fear for drivers near Roseville Road.

It’s also the subject of litigation, brought by the town.

At least now there’s something interesting to look at, besides high towers that look like they could collapse and spill into the roadway.

Several colorful wood carvings recently appeared. Their back story is unknown.

And — like the log piles themselves — the saga continues.

(Photo and hat tip/Stacie Curran)

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Another odd Post Road East sight: a casket.

For a few weeks, it’s been spotted amid the “stuff” near Goodwill and the  Westport Tennis Club.

(Photo and hat tip: Eric Bosch)

The Post Road is not the prettiest street. But at least we’ve got some interesting things to see, as we drive by.

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Spiders and moths and wasps, oh my!

“Little Things Run the World” — and that’s the subject of the next Aspetuck Land Trust free seminar.

“Insects with Benefits: Pollination and Pest Control” is the sub-head of the Wednesday, February 15 event (1 to 4 p.m.).

ALT says: “Learn about the most important part of our web of life, and be inspired to make your yard more welcoming for them. Without our insects, the web of life comes apart. Love our spiders, moths and wasps from the comfort of your home.”

Click here to register, and for more information. (NOTE: The 3 previous sessions were recorded. All are available with registration.)

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Registration is now open for the CT Challenge. The July 29 bike ride — with distances of 10, 25, 40, 62, 100 and virtual — raises funds for the local non-profit Mission. They help 16.9 million cancer survivors in Connecticut and throughout the US rebuild, improve and prolong their lives through exercise, nutrition, mind-body health and community-building support programs.

Click here to register. Click here for more information on the CT Challenge.

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Staples High School offers courses in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Latin and Mandarin.

All will join in, to celebrate World Language Week. Among the events:

The cafeteria will serve themed dishes, and promote international cuisine.

Students are invited to wear t-shirts or sweatshirts supporting the language they’re studying (for example, sports teams, international universities, and souvenir shirts from abroad).

Music will play in a variety of languages before school, during the 5 minutes of passing time, and immediately after school ends.

Students will make morning announcements, in the languages they’re taking.

The library will display world language literature, art and more, and will host international karaoke and a trivia competition.

The “Connections” period will feature trivia games, video links, and basic conversational instruction.

¡Vamos!

Students studying Italian will celebrate World Language Week.

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Today’s intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Greens Farms, courtesy of Joanna Sierakowska. You never know …

(Photo/Jenna Sierakowska)

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And finally … the recent death from lung cancer of David Harris — the journalist who went to jail for refusing the draft during Vietnam, and encouraged others to do the same — brought to mind the song Joan Baez wrote for and about him. They were married at the time; he had just been sentenced to 3 years in prison. (Click here for a full obituary.)

(To celebrate World Language Week [story above], please consider a donation of euros, pounds, yuans — or dollars — to “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Oka Mural, Ukraine Coats, Joggers Club Jr.,

Posted on February 10, 2023 | 7 comments

The other day, alert reader Peter Gold noticed that the mural of long-ago Westporters that once hung behind the Banana Republic register — and before that, Klein’s Department store and, way earlier, the Townly restaurant — is gone.

I guessed that Oka — the British furniture and home accessories retailer that moved in right before Christmas — had no idea of its provenance. I also guessed that an email to their headquarters would yield no response.

Surprise! I got this quick reply:

Thanks for reaching out! The beautiful, historic mural has been well-preserved behind a purposely constructed wall that is papered in grasscloth. If you ever stop by the showroom, the manager, Susan Benedetti, would be happy to show you where it is. Hope this helps!

I emailed back, wondering why it no longer hangs where the public can see it.

So far: crickets.

Judging from the video below, there’s no room amid the “timeless” décor for this perhaps time-worn artifact of history.

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For the past 2 week, the Westport Winter Farmers’ Market has collected coats, mittens and more for Ukrainian relief.

Shoppers donated generously. In fact, co-organizer Mark Yurkiw says, “Thanks to everyone, we need a bigger truck!”

With donations at the Westport Farmers’ Market, at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (from left): Farmers’ Market director Lori Cochran-Dougall, organizer Mark Yurkiw, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Wynne Vaast, who brought many bags from L.L. Bean and his employer, Ring’s End.

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Sure, it was chilly at Compo Beach yesterday.

But more than 160 employees of Synchrony, the Stamford financial services company — including CEO Brian Doubles — plunged into the 39-degree water.

It was a charity event, for the benefit of Westport-based global community of 30 camps and programs for children living with serious illnesses, and their families. Synchrony employees raised and matched more than $180,000 to the non-profit.

Synchrony says: Everyone into (and out of) the water!

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The Joggers Club Jr. returns this spring.

Once again, kindergarteners through 8th graders will learn the basics of running from experts — and have fun, with friends.

Instructors include Coach Alex, who just ran his personal record marathon (2:55). He’s a founding coach at Central Park Running Club, the fastest-growing run club in New York.

Coach Brenn is a collegiate cross country and track athlete.  His post-college PRs include a 4:49 mile, 1:22 half marathon and 3:08 marathon.  He previously trained with the elite Central Park Track Club.

Coach Dave has competed in 13 Half Ironmans,12 Olympic triathlons, 4 marathons and 1 Ironman. He is a cycle instructor at Equinox Fitness in New York, and runs competitively for Central Park Running Club.

Coach Skye is a graduate of The Joggers Club Jr. She placed second in her age group in the 2022 Minute Man 10k, and has competed in every Turkey Trot since she was 9.

The camp takes places Sundays from 2 to 3:15 p.m., from April 23 to June 11 at the Staples High School track. It is limited to 40 runners.

Before March 1, the fee is $49 for Joggers Club members, $99 for non-members. Venmo @CPRCandTJC (include name, age and shirt size of participant). Then go to www.TheJoggersClub.com, and complete the waiver under the “Members” tab.

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Laurie Sorensen got her ducks in a row recently at Compo Beach’s South Beach, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … the legendary Burt Bacharach died Wednesday, in Los Angeles. He was 94.

The New York Times calls him “the debonair pop composer, arranger, conductor, record producer and occasional singer whose hit songs in the 1960s distilled that decade’s mood of romantic optimism….

“A die-hard romantic whose mature style might be described as Wagnerian lounge music, Mr. Bacharach fused the chromatic harmonies and long, angular melodies of late-19th-century symphonic music with modern, bubbly pop orchestration, and embellished the resulting mixture with a staccato rhythmic drive. His effervescent compositions epitomized sophisticated hedonism to a generation of young adults only a few years older than the Beatles.

“Because of the high gloss and apolitical stance of the songs Mr. Bacharach wrote with his most frequent collaborator, the lyricist Hal David, during an era of confrontation and social upheaval, they were often dismissed as little more than background music by listeners who preferred the hard edge of rock or the intimacy of the singer-songwriter genre. But in hindsight, the Bacharach-David team ranks high in the pantheon of pop songwriting.” (Click here for a full obituary.)

His most famous songs may be “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head,” “Do You Know the Way to San Jose” and “That’s What Friends Are For.”

Here are a few of my favorites. What are yours? Click “Comments” below.

(Speaking of “That’s What Friends Are For”: Please consider a donation to “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Downtown, Local business, Looking back, Sports

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Academy Camps Competes In Youth Sports Niche

Posted on February 10, 2023 | 3 comments

Once upon a time, summer sleepaway camps were the only thing. Boys and girls played a variety of sports, did arts and crafts, had campfires and color wars — all for 8 weeks in the woods.

Then came sports camps. They offered specialization in one thing — basketball say, or soccer — led by noted college coaches, and their athletes.

It’s hard to find a “sports camp” anymore. They’ve morphed into “ID camps,” marketing themselves as the best way to get onto a college program’s radar — early.

They’re all about competing for coaches’ attention. There’s little instruction. But there is plenty of down time, away from the court or field. Sometimes, athletes are not even on campus. They’re holed up in a hotel, playing video games during down time.

“ID camps” and their cousin, “college showcases,” are now so prevalent that many youngsters feel the need to attend several each summer. Even those who enjoyed a traditional summer camp decide, reluctantly, that they can’t go back. They “have to” travel the country, hoping to shine for at least one college coach.

Jem Sollinger, Jon Deren and Josh Hahn know that landscape well. Owners and directors of 3 highly regarded traditional summer camps — Laurel, Manitou and Somerset respectively, all in Maine (the first 2 with winter offices in the same Brooks Corner building in Westport) — they have seen first hand the demise of “all-sports” camps, and their replacement by “ID” camps.

Academy Camps founders.

Laurel, Manitou and Somerset continue to thrive, with long wait lists. But as Sollinger, Deren and Hahn — longtime colleagues and friends, all of whom grew up playing multiple sports — talked, they wondered if they could create something that combined a traditional summer camp experience with a specialized emphasis on one sport.

They could — and they did.

Academy Camps opens this summer. With an emphasis on 4 sports — soccer, basketball, lacrosse and tennis — at Suffield Academy, using state-of-the-art athletic facilities on a 368-acre campus (but far from the Maine woods), it promises short sessions, excellent coaching, innovative leadership and more.

In other words: “a modern approach to the summer sports camp.”

Besides Sollinger and Deren, Academy Camps has a heavy Westport imprint. This is fertile territory for young athletes who have gone to summer camps, yet felt pressured to travel the “ID camp” circuit.

Mike Maurillo

The executive director is well known here too. Mike Maurillo — a former Fairfield University lacrosse captain, with more than 2 decades experience in advertising, and health and wellness — has spent 12 years in Westport as a volunteer coach in lacrosse, soccer, flag football and rec basketball.

When Academy Camps opens in June, much will be familiar to traditional summer campers. But much will be much different.

There are 3 sessions, for boys and girls ages 10 to 15. Each is 1 or 2 weeks — that’s up to the camper. The first begins June 25; the last ends on August 4.

There are morning and afternoon blocks for the sport of specialization. (With plenty of room: Suffield boasts 2 turf and 7 grass fields, 10 tennis courts and a 30,000-square foot fieldhouse).

Some of the facilities at Suffield Academy.

But athletes need more than just skills training. Academy Camps emphasizes leadership training and wellness too.

The schedule also includes an outdoor ropes course and balance bar, and work on mindfulness, breathwork, visualization, flexibility and mobility.

Former pro athletes and current college coaches will be invited to speak to campers too.

“We’re teaching the ‘character’ skills we as coaches don’t always have time for, or believe happen by osmosis,” Maurillo says. That includes goal-setting, communication, conflict resolution and appropriate reactions to pressure.

Many youth sports experts — and high-level athletes — decry the increasing emphasis on early specialization. Academy Camps provides opportunities for everyone to play flag football, pickup basketball, frisbee golf, floor hockey — the types of games kids enjoy at traditional camps (and whenever they get the chance to be kids at home too).

Another summer camp ritual that Academy Camps continues: color war. Contested each night, in everything from floor hockey to trivia contests, a scavenger hunt and a rope burning game, it’s a way to bring campers of all ages and both genders together.

Academy Camps will incorporate many elements of a traditional summer camp.

Like many summer camps — yet unlike most ID sports camps — this one is “tech-free.” Electronic devices are prohibited — the better to enhance teamwork, teach interpersonal skills, and reduce social pressures (and dependence on parents).

Maurillo ticks off other reasons he’s excited about Academy Camps’ launch: Much of the staff (including nurses, dining hall, maintenance and security) comes from Suffield Academy, so they know the facilities and have a vested interest in its success.

(One non-Suffield name: basketball director Mike Evans. Well known in this area, the former Weston High star founded Full Court Peace, a non-profit that brings diverse teens together to repair courts in low-income neighborhoods from Norwalk and New York to Havana.)

The Suffield academy location is another plus. Two hours from JFK and Logan airports — and just 10 minutes from Bradley — it’s more accessible than most summer camps.

And Academy has the whole school to themselves. There will be no other program during the summer.

Academy Camps will offer a higher level of the sports instruction already offered at many traditional summer camps.

Is there a concern Academy Camps will cannibalize the directors’ existing traditional camps?

No, Maurillo says.

Some youngsters who have enrolled in the sports program will also do a half-session at Laurel, Manitou or Somerset. Others were already ready to move on.

The involvement of Sollinger, Deren and Hahn gives Academy Camps legitimacy and prestige. “This is an ‘and,’ not an ‘or,'” Maurillo says.

And — most emphatically — not an “ID.”

(“06880” covers youth — and youth issues — all over town. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Children, Local business, Sports, Teenagers

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Roundup: Parks & Rec Programs, Real Estate Sales, Lost Keys ….

Posted on February 8, 2023 | 9 comments

Spring must be close. Summer too!

Registration for Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department’s spring and summer program offerings begins online on March 10 (9 a.m.). Offerings will be viewable soon, at www.westportrecreation.com.

Department officials urge residents to log into their online account now, to verify family information. Once logged in, click “Manage Family Member” on the bottom right. Check that contact information is accurate. (In the personal information box, it is important to make sure that children’s grades reflect the current school year). Cell phone information will be used for class cancellations or location changes.

Address changes should be emailed to recreation@westportct.gov. Additional proof of Westport residency may be required.

Problems? Do not create another profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152.

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Single-family real estate figures for January 2023 are down, compared to January ’22:

  • Unit sales: 19 (down 34.5%)
  • Median sales price: $1.65 million (down 25%)
  • Inventory: 82 (down 7.9%)
  • Days on market: 54 (down 33.3%)

(Hat tip: Meredith Cohen)

This home at 2 Owenoke Park is on the market for $8,950,000.

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Think your lost keys are gone for good?

Think again.

Residents who find keys often bring them to Westport Police Department headquarters. A plastic bin near the front desk currently holds several dozen keys.

And — this being Westport — plenty of them are for some very nice vehicles.

(Photo and hat tip/Seth Schachter)

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The health of the Compo Acres Shopping Center sycamore, at Post Road East and Compo Road South, is a constant concern to Westporters.

This morning, Bartlett Tree Experts provided some maintenance and love.

(Photo/Frank Rosen)

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Carl Addison Swanson continues his crusade for traffic safety. He writes:

“Due to a 53% increase in pedestrian deaths from 2009 to 2018 with 6,283 total nationally, Connecticut passed a new ‘crosswalk law’ which went into effect on October 1, 2021.

“Now, unless there is a traffic signal directing otherwise, a pedestrian always has the right of way at a crosswalk throughout the state. A pedestrian may merely raise their hand to signal any oncoming traffic that he or she is intending to cross the street. Drivers must yield.

“Thanks to the recent passage of SS4A Infrastructure bill and Representative Jim Himes, our Congressional 4th District will receive $450,000 to implement safety measures to insure, among other things, pedestrian safety.  We are the only district in the state to receive such funds.

“That said, a tour of the town shows little implementation of any safety measures. While yellow pedestrian warning signs are in place, they are often concealed by untrimmed tree branches.

“Recently a female driver yelled at a runner crossing North Avenue at Bedford Middle School, ‘There is no crossing guard at the crosswalk, so get out of my way!” She sped away, nearly hitting the runner.

“Westport has chosen to spend $200,000 on a study of 2 Cross Highway intersections, at North Avenue and Bayberry Lane. Where and when is our taxpayer money going to be utilized to insure our safety before someone is killed?

“We know stop signs and worthless solar speed limit monitors do not work, at least on North Avenue. So what is next? Little green men? We might start by educating the public, strict law enforcement and some real traffic lights.”

Slow down!

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Brien Buckman is the newest member of Westport’s Representative Town Meeting. The 33-year-old fills a vacancy in District 6, caused by the death of Cathy Talmadge.

He has lived in Westport since 2020. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

Brien Buckman

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If you’re an X Games fan, you know that Mac Forehand — a member of the 2022 Olympic US ski team — just won gold in big air at the competition in Aspen.

He did it in a big way:  with a perfect 50 score, landing a 2160 Cuban that wowed the crowd. He also won silver for slopestyle.

But you may not know that Mac is the son of 1976 Staples High School graduate Ray Forehand.

Mac also made history in 2019, winning the overall World Cup title in slopestyle at just 17 years old. It was his first full season on the World Cup circuit.

Mac grew up in Fairfield, and attended the Stratton Mountain Ski School.

If you knew Ray Forehand, you’ll notice the great resemblance in the video below. (Hat tip: Sam Febbraio)

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11-year-old Kathryn is paralyzed by social anxiety. She spends all her time in her basement with her 2 passions: Alfred Hitchcock and stop-motion animation. When a new neighbor moves in, will she be able to share her dream and make a new friend?

That’s the first offering of Westport Country Playhouse’s mobile unit — though this one will be the main stage. “Scaredy Kat Presents” runs for 1 performance only: Sunday, March 5, at 2 p.m. All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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It may be February, but the defending state champion Staples High School rugby team is heading outdoors.

They host their 3rd annual College Showcase & Combine this Saturday (February 11, noon to 4 p.m.). They expect 150 high school players — boys and girls — from the tri-state area, and representatives from over 50 college.

The 2-hour combine will be run by the 2 Major League Rugby teams in the area: the New England Free Jacks and reigning champs Rugby United New York.

The “showcase” portion takes place in the school cafeteria. Each college has a table; players and their parents can learn more about their academics and rugby programs.

Meanwhile, the Staples Rugby Club announces Little Barn as their “preferred restaurant partner.” They’ll hold several events there, beginning the weekend of March 11 (a viewing party for the Six Nations matches).

Little Barn will also be the site of post-match celebration, after Staples hosts a top-ranked club from Texas (March 11) and their first international friendly (vs. St. Andrews College of South Africa, April 15).

The state champion 2022 Staples High School rugby team. (Photo/Chloe DeAngelis)

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Westport Pride joins with the Department of Justice, FBI and Connecticut US Attorney’s office to explore hate crimes at the federal, state and local levels.

“United Against Hate” — a free training to inform LGBTQ+ community members and allies about those crimes, and how to respond, is set for March 28 (6 p.m., Westport Library; in-person and virtual).

The interactive program also involves the Westport and Norwalk police chiefs, and the Connecticut State Police’s Hate Crimes Unit.

The meeting is part of a national initiative, by all 94 US Attorneys offices. Click here for details on that program. Click here for details of the March 28 event.

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Native Westporter Scott Brodie sends along this striking image of his mother’s back yard on Burr Farms Road, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Scott Brodie)

He writes:

“My father built his house on a wooded lot at the north end of Burr Farms Road in 1954. The lots on the southern end of the road had been a working apple orchard and were mostly cleared, but the northern end had been allowed to return to woodlands, interspersed with the remains of low stone walls.

“My parents loved the idea of living ‘in the woods,’ and cut down as few trees as possible. Many decades later, the aerial images of the site on Google Maps and Google Earth show the house and garage nearly obscured by the foliage.

“But looking up at the sky through the treetops in winter, it is striking how the trees seem to ‘respect’ each other, with their elaborate branching patterns carefully avoiding contact with each other.

“This phenomenon, known as ‘crown shyness,’ is frequently observed in hardwood forests, but is not well understood. The trees seem to skillfully avoid encroaching on their neighbors’ space, but the mechanisms which mediate this avoidance remain unclear.”

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And finally … Charlie Thomas, a longtime member of the Drifters (and the Rock & Roll Hall Fame), died January 31 in Maryland. He was 85, and suffered from liver cancer.

Thomas was part of the group for over 60 years, from its hit-making time in the late 1950s to the version that toured until COVID struck.

Thomas mainly sang backup. But he took the lead on “Sweets for My Sweet” and “When My Little Girl Is Smiling.” Click here for a full obituary.

(Whatever your musical tastes, if you enjoy our daily musical offering, please click here to contribute to “06880.” Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Library, Local politics, Police, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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John Starks Sparks Staples Ballers

Posted on February 4, 2023 | 5 comments

John Starks retired from the NBA in 2002. That’s several years before even the oldest current Staples High School basketball player was born.

But every fan knows of the former New York Knick’s legendary dunk — against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, no less — in the 1993 Eastern Conference finals.

So it was quite an event this past week, when Starks spent an afternoon with the Wreckers’ boys basketball team.

Starks — who still tops the Knicks’ list of 3-point scorers — came to Westport through Brett Tessler.

A 2008 Staples graduate, he started on the varsity basketball team as a sophomore. After a couple of years at the IMG Academy in Florida, he played at Union College. He’s now the Knicks’ director of fan engagement and youth programs.

Tessler is again a Westport resident. When he learned of the exciting season the Wreckers are having he reached out to head coach Dave Goldshore, and offered to help.

Starks spoke to the varsity, junior varsity and freshman squads. He described his route from college taxi squad to the pros; the life of an NBA player, and what it’s like to be a blue-collar, undersized guard defending against Michael Jordan.

(A Staples player asked about his second-toughest opponent. The answer: Clyde Drexler.)

John Starks talks with Staples basketball players.

Starks also answered questions about Knick coach Pat Riley’s practices, his closest friend on the team (Patrick Ewing), and more.

Life was not always easy. Once — in the 1994 NBA finals against Houston — he connected just twice, on 18 shots. He talked about that too, and how he handled nights like those.

The Staples boys basketball team is having one of their best seasons ever. They’re talented, tough and tight. Westporters pack the bleachers, drawn by their skill and spirit.

They’re legitimate contenders for an FCIAC — even a state — championship.

Of course, it’s far from a slam dunk.

But the man who made one of the most famous dunks in history just gave them a big shot.

John Starks (center) with Staples varsity, junior varsity and freshman players. Head coach Dave Goldshore is standing, 2nd from left.

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Posted in Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: S&S Dugout, Warming Stations, Miami Dolphins …

Posted on February 3, 2023 | 5 comments

It’s a few yards over the Westport line in Southport. Most folks don’t give it a second glance.

But the S&S Dugout — a scruffy diner on the right side of the Post Road — has been a favorite go-to, for no-nonsense food, for many regulars since 1950.

No more. No more roast beef, hot sausage, home fries, omelets, burgers, dogs, shakes, or bacon egg and cheeses. It wasn’t healthy, but it was good.

The door to the old place is now closed. A “For Lease” sign hangs in the window. Let the memories begin.

Here’s mine: One day when I was a student at Staples High School, and “Ed’s Dugout” was (my friends and I thought) a secret hangout, we walked in and saw Haystacks Calhoun.

The wrestler was 6-4. He weighed over 600 pounds.

And — to our awe — he took up 2 stools. Plus all the space in between.

RIP, the Dugout. You were one of a kind.

S&S Dugout in Southport.

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Baby, it’s (gonna be) cold outside.

Below-zero wind chills are forecast through tomorrow morning. (It warms up quickly after that.)

Westport will open these warming centers today:

  • Senior Center (until 4:30 p.m. today)
  • Library (until 6 p.m.).
  • Westport Museum for History & Culture (Until 5 p.m.).
  • Westport Weston Family YMCA (until 6 p.m.). 
  • MoCA (until 4 p.m.).

Westport residents facing hardships due to the cold weather should contact Human Services (203-341-1050, until 4:30 p.m.).

PS: It’s a good idea to keep your faucets dripping tonight, to prevent frozen pipes. See below for tips:

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When the temperature rises on Sunday, residents are invited to the next trash pick-upu.

It’s 11 a.m. (February 5), at the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Volunteers should bring gloves, garbage bags and boots — and dress warmly.

Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

A recent trash pick-up on Greens Farms Road. This Sunday, the site is the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

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The Miami Dolphins are not playing in this year’s Super Bowl.

But in 1972, they did something the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles can never match (at least this season): go undefeated all year.

This Thursday (February 9, 7 p.m., Westport Library) longtime ESPN reporter/”E:60″ host/1988 Staples High School graduate/current Westporter hosts a screening of his new film, “The Perfect Machine.”

The documentary includes interviews with 16 members of that history-making team, including Paul Warfield, Larry Csonka, Larry Little, Bob Griese and Joe Namath.

Afterward, the 11-time Emmy Award winner will answer questions.

Jeremy Schaap

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Also ahead at the Library:

  • The “State of the Town” meeting, with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein this Sunday (February 5, 2 p.m.; Trefz Forum and livestream).
  • “Energy Rates”: State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Anne Hughes, host a meeting about rising energy prices (Monday, February 6, 7 p.m., Trefz Forum).

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein, at last year’s “State of the Town” meeting.

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For 14 years, Earth Animal — the great Post Road store for our 4-legged friends — has supported those of us in need, with only 2.

Their holiday “Mitten Project” raises funds to address food insecurity. For $5, customers buy “mittens,” which they sign to be hung in the shop windows. Holiday items and donation boxes add to the haul.

And Earth Animal matches every penny donated.

Last year’s fundraising was impressive: $38,000.

This year’s was spectacular. Yesterday, Earth Animal owners and employees presented a check for $53,000 to CT Foodshare.

That funds an astonishing 106,000 meals. Thank you, Earth Animal — and all who helped! (Hat tip: Betsy Pollak)

Earth Animal and CT Foodshare officials, at yesterday’s ceremony.

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Ten Staples High School student-athletes have signed letters of intent to play NCAA Division I sports.

The list includes:

  • Tyler Clark (lacrosse; United States Military Academy)
  • Mia Guster (swimming and diving; Lafayette College)
  • Parker Lenoce (swimming and diving; Princeton University)
  • Emma Nahon (field hockey; University of Pennsylvania)
  • Leo Sequenzia (lacrosse; Providence College)
  • Francine Stevens (track and field; Cornell University)
  • Riley Twiss (swimming and diving; Bucknell University)
  • Kate Whitaker (swimming and diving; Lehigh University)
  • Hiro Wyatt (baseball; University of Southern California)
  • Chris Zajac (baseball; Indiana University).

A special signing ceremony was held Wednesday, at Staples. Click here to see.

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Bingo is back!

The Westport Young Woman’s League’s “Galentine’s Day” fundraiser returns, for the first time since pre-COVID 2019.

The event is set for February 9 (7 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church). The evening includes prizes and treats. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Proceeds benefit WYWL grants programs. After the previous Galentine’s Day Bing, the organization distributed $80,000 to 18 area charities. Click here for the list.

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The Greens Farms Garden Club is a new beneficiary of Stop & Shop’s Community Bag Program.

Throughout February, whenever a $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at the Westport supermarket, $1 will be donated to the club.

Funds will go to projects like the Atrium at Earthplace, Growing For Good vegetable gardens at  Wakeman Town Farm, and Prospect Gardens.

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Longtime Westporter, former RTM member and civic volunteer Peter Nathan died on Saturday. He was 89.

After graduating from the University of Connecticut, Peter served as a captain in the Marine Corps.

He spent his business career of nearly 60 years in the exhibition, conference and event industry. He and his company, Clapp & Poliak, are credited with organizing the first US events in the former Soviet Union and China.

After his company was acquired by Reed Exhibitions, he became the senior staff member at the Javits Convention Center. In 1996 he formed his own firm, PWN Exhibicon, and produced the only 2 exhibitions sanctioned by the American government in Cuba.

Peter helped transform a primarily domestic exhibition industry into a global one. He served on every major board and commission, and received numerous awards. He was a frequent guest speaker at conferences. Videos of him are on display at the Washington Convention Center and McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago.

He was elected 4 times as a member of the Westport Representative Town Meeting. He also served as an officer and club chairman of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston; a governor-appointed member of the Connecticut Judicial Review Council, and an advisory member of the Mid-Fairfield County Child Guidance Center and Domestic Violence Crisis Center.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lois (Sandy) Nathan; children Tamara, Corynne, Mark and Leslie, and their spouses Gary, Dina and Bryan; 9 grandchildren and their spouses, and 1 great grandchild.

A date for a celebration of life will be forthcoming. Contributions can be made to the Westport Library, Senior Center or Westport Country Playhouse.

Peter Nathan

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The other day, Deanna Forman sat in her car at Staples High School, waiting for her daughter to finish Players rehearsal. The “face” on this tree caught her eye — and made her think of our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Deanna Forman)

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And finally … in honor of tonight’s weather:

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(On the coldest day of the year, please warm the “06880” coffers with a contribution. Just click here — and thank you!).

 

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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