Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Many Ways To Vote — But Big Polling Place Changes …

Posted on July 9, 2026 | 1 comment

Connecticut was one of the last states to adopt early voting.

In just a few years though, it’s caught on in a big way.

And it’s driven a major change in the way Westporters who don’t vote early will cast their ballots in future elections.

Beginning with the August 11 primary, and continuing November 3 through all elections afterward, all in-person voting will be done at Bedford Middle School.

In other words: the 9 previous polling locations will be consolidated into one.

Registrar of voters Deborah Greenberg explains: “Because of the fantastic turnout we are getting with early voting, as well as the passage of ‘no excuse’ absentee voting, we expect our active Westport community to do the majority of voting before primary/election day.

“Additionally, with the loss of our largest elementary school (Long Lots), and certain issues with other polling locations, we believe our voters will have a better experience at Bedford Middle School.

“There is substantial parking at Bedford, better lighting for early morning and late evening voters, and voting will be in very close proximity to the entry and exit of the school.

“Not so obvious benefits but certainly important are better security, and better storage, setup and end-of-day closing procedures for our election officials.”

Meanwhile, for the August 11 primary, registered Democrats and Republicans may vote by absentee ballot, or in person during early voting (still at Town Hall), or on Election Day.

Connecticut voters may now vote by absentee ballot for any reason. Click here for an application.

Early voting takes place in person at Town Hall on August 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and August 4 and 6 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.).

(NOTE: Connecticut has done away with its previous early voting procedure, in which ballots were placed in envelopes with voter information and affirmations. Now, all early ballots will be placed directly into tabulator machines — the same process used on Election Day.)

In-person voting on August 11 is 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Bedford Middle School.

Questions? Contact the registrar of voters office: 203-341-1115.

Scenes like this at the Westport Library, and schools throughout Westport, will be a thing of the past. From now on, the only in-person polling place on Election Day will be Bedford Middle School.

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An intriguing “America 250” map at the top of the Westport Library’s 2nd floor shows every country where library patrons come from.

And it’s interactive.

North and South America …

There are plenty of dots in western Europe. But many other nations are represented too — from Russia, China and India to Egypt, Iran, South Africa and Brazil.

But a number of other countries are unrepresented so far. Australia, Turkey, Peru, Nigeria … come on! We know Westporters whose families lived there.

Or who came from there themselves.

Stickers to participate are available in the Children’s library.

… and Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Local historian Bob Weingarten launched his new book, “Westport, Connecticut: The Old and New Historical Accounts – 1639-2025” Tuesday night at the Westport Book Shop.

His book identifies the oldest houses here, and locations of the town’s early settler families. Photographs document his exhaustive findings, gathered during 2 decades of exploring records in vaults and elsewhere.

For more information on Weingarten’s book, click here.

Bob Weingarten, with his new book. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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A few weeks ago, workers cleared brush and trees from the area at the Imperial Avenue parking lot, near the Riverwalk.

A new ramp — for people with mobility issues, strollers and more — is being built. Here was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Bulldozers took a lot of brush and trees away a few weeks ago and the riverwalk near the Imperial lot was blocked.  We think it’s a ramp for strollers and wheelchairs so people parking in the Imperial lot have easier access. But I m not sure. Next time I walk I’ll talk to the workers.

Speaking of history: The Weston History & Culture Center is open every Thursday in July and August from 1 to 4 p.m., and on Sundays (July 26, August 2 and 30), also from 1 to 4.

Among the attractions:

“Weston at Work,” an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to experience the work that shaped the town’s past. Card wool, weave on a loom, use a rope and pulley to lift a hay bale, and explore farming tools and artifacts. It includes  immigrant communities, people of African descent, women and children.

Guided tours of the Coley House, the only historic house museum in Connecticut interpreting life on the home front during World War II. Dial a rotary phone, type on a vintage typewriter, play with 1940s toys and games, build with Lincoln Logs, and more.

“Sarah Treadwell: Connecticut Mom, American Patriot” honors a local woman whose steadfast support of her family’s role in the Revolution reflects the often-overlooked contributions women made during America’s fight for independence.

“Local Patriots & Loyalists of the American Revolution,” examines individuals and families from the area who found themselves divided — supporting the patriots or remaining loyal to the British Crown.

Student Art: Works created by Weston Middle School 8th grade students in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Thirteen young artists were selected to display their oil paintings depicting Weston and Connecticut history during the 1700s and early 1800s. In a WMS 8th grade storybook project, students created picture books explaining the Declaration of Independence.

The Daniel Offutt Sculpture Garden features works by former Weston resident, philanthropist and artist Daniel E. Offutt III.

For more information, click here.

Inspecting a loom, at the Weston History & Culture Center.

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA Water Rat Swim Team tryouts this month, for 6- to 12-year-olds.

Ages 6-8: July 27 (3 and 3:45 p.m.); July 28 (4:30 and 5:15 p.m.).

Ages 9-10: July 27 (4:30 and 5:15 p.m., July 28 (3 and 3:45 p.m.).

Ages 11-12 (July 27 and 28, 6 p.m.).

Pre-registration is required; click here. Make-up tryouts will be offered in August.

Questions?  Email kfinnegan@westporty.org. Swimmers 13 and over: email ejohnston@westporty.org.

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Susan Filan — a former prosecutor, trial lawyer and MSNBC senior legal analyst, who pivoted to a career as a speaker and coach, spoke about all those roles at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

She noted that after 3 decades representing people in crises where freedom, family and reputation were on the line, she uses the same judgment, discretion and clarity in private advisory work.

Susan Filan, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Fifty years after the bicentennial — and just 2 weeks after our semiquincentennial — Staples High School’s Class of 1976 is celebrating their 50th reunion,

The July 16 through 19 festivities include  golf at Longshore, a Staples tour, activities at the Westport Country Playhouse and Westport Museum for History & Culture, evenings at the Black Duck and Compo Beach, and a kayak trip along the Saugatuck River.

Click here for the website, with details, registration and more.

They’ll also raise funds for Homes with Hope’s food pantry wish list. To make a donation — on your own, or in honor of the Class of ’76 — click here.

Staples High School Class of 1976 — back in the day.

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 1 and 7.

A 46-year-old Milford man was charged with larceny, after 2 coffee makers valued at $349.99 each were shoplifted from HomeGoods. He was released on a $25,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 19 citations
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulation: 7
  • Driving while texting: 4
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 4
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Improper passing: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 1

Slow down! Obey signs! Etc.!

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You know that phrase “busy as a bee”?

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — courtesy of Gabriela Hayes — proves it’s far more than idle words.

Bee balm and pollinator. (Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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And finally … in honor of the Westport Library’s “America 250” exhibit of where its patrons came from (story above):

(“06880” is definitely “where Westport meets the world.” And no matter where in the world you come from, or live, we hope you’ll support this hyper-local yet global blog. Just click here. Thanks!)

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Posted in Library, Looking back, Police, Staples HS, YMCA

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Staples Players Rewind: “A Chorus Line

Posted on July 7, 2026 | 2 comments

Staples Players’ fall 2013 production of “A Chorus Line” was a singular sensation.

David Roth and Kerry Long directed 2 casts. Jim Honeycutt — the former video teacher who filmed and created this highlight reel — notes where each begins. Click here or below to see this remarkable, superbly choreographed production.

Here’s a 2026 update on several cast members:

Michelle Pauker (Diana)  is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse). On Sunday, her band Back to the Garden 1969 performed at the Levitt Pavilion.

Clay Singer (Al) has extensive theater credits including “Masquerade” (New York), “Fiddler On the Roof” (St. Louis), “Perchik” (Westport), “The Band’s Visit” (North American tour), “Into the Woods” (Pittsfield, Massachusetts), “Next to Normal” (Vero Beach, Florida), “Man of La Mancha” (Westport), “Romeo and Juliet” and “Ragtime” and “The Full Monty” (both Pittsburgh).

Cara McNiff (Sheila) graduated from Elon University with a degree in musical theater. She is still involved in theater. as a regional booking manager.

Sylvie Lexow (Lizzie – Zach’s Assistant) is a senior marketing operations and program manager.

Will Haskell (Mark) served in the Connecticut State Senate from 2019 to 2023. He then attended law school.

Joe Badion (Paul) is a graduate of Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music. He teaches upper school music at the Town School in New York.

Caroline Didelot (Judy) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.

Julia Mandelbaum (Lois) has performed in a number of shows since leaving Staples.

Caroline Rossi (now McCluskey) (Judy Turner) is working in public relations and marketing. She lives in New York City with her husband.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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World Cup Final Comes To Westport

Posted on July 7, 2026 | 3 comments

No one yet knows which 2 nations will face off in the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19.*

We do know where to watch it though, on perhaps the largest screen in town: the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum.

If the championship match is anything like the tournament so far, it will be a sizzling, scintillating affair.

But the 3 p.m. final is not the only action that afternoon.

The Library has planned a full, family-friendly soccer afternoon.

At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan, soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce and others will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.

Staples graduate Mike Noonan — coach of Clemson University’s 2-time national champs — will appear on video.

From 1 to 3 p.m., fans can exchange Panini brand stickers.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or only recently caught World Cup fever, this is a chance to spend an afternoon with soccer people — and watch what is sure to be a memorable match surrounded by many others.

It’s not MetLife Stadium.

But it’s the next best thing to being there.

And you can’t beat the admission price. It’s free!

(“Westport Meets the World Cup” is supported by the Westport Soccer Association, Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises and “06880.”)

*It sure won’t be the US.

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Posted in Library, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Outage Update; Sunset Yoga; Theater, Art, Music, Sports …

Posted on July 7, 2026 | Leave a comment

Eversource is slowly returning power to our towns.

As of 7:30 a.m. today — 58 hours after storms ripped through the area — 110 Westport customers remain without electricity. That’s 0.9% of all customers here.

In Weston, 79 customers (2%) lack power.

Statewide, the figure is 10,193 (0.9%).

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There are many ways for Westporters to enjoy Sunday evenings at Compo Beach.

Some people wind down from the weekend, and pause before work begins again, with cookouts. Others walk, fish, or watch the sunset.

Now there’s another choice: yoga.

Alexa Moro — a 2018 Staples graduate, who captained both her high school and Villanova lacrosse teams — was introduced to the practice for physical recovery, as  teenager. In college, she realized it changed her mental outlook too.

After working as an accountant and financial analyst, she pivoted to teaching full-time. Saltwater Yoga was born.

Her Compo “Sunday Sunset Sessions” begin at 6 p.m. near the cannons, and run through August 16. They’re beginner-friendly, and include open-level yoga, sound, and an optional saltwater plunge.

They begin as the sun starts to set. “We build some heat, then cool down,” Alexa says.

“What started as my personal search for a little bit of space in my fast-paced life and mind slowly became something I realized is worth sharing.”

To sign up, click here.

Sunset yoga.

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A new partnership between the Westport Country Playhouse and The Clubhouse promises an evening of mystery, interactive fun and theatrical intrigue.

The “Pick Your Poison” collaboration is set for tomorrow (Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m.) at The Clubhouse (1620 Post Road East).

Inspired by the Playhouse’s upcoming production of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,” the event immerses guests in the world of the Queen of Crime.

Local student actors will perform scenes from the stage adaptation of the classic whodunit. Attendees can test their detective skills by solving a series of fast-paced, 30-second mysteries.

Guests will also receive discounted tickets and concession vouchers for the “Ackroyd,” show (running July 14 through August 1 at the Playhouse).

Keeping with the theme, guests can “Pick Your Poison” from a selection of beverages and food, available for purchase at The Clubhouse.

Admission is free, but space is limited. Advance reservations are required;  click here.

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Rick Shaefer’s exhibit “Colossi” — part of MoCA\CT’s new show “Looking for History” — is earning raves.

On Thursday (July 9, 6 p.m.), the artist offers personal insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

He’ll guide visitors through the works on view, sharing the inspirations, historical references and creative processes that shape his practice.

It’s $25 general admission, $15 for seniors and students, free for MoCA members. Click here to register.

Rick Shaefer, with his work. 

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Another artist here this Thursday: Joel Mesler (July 9, 7:30 p.m., Chabad of Westport).

Known for colorful, expressive paintings and playful use of language, he’ll share stories about works that blend humor, memory, hope and Jewish identity.

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Can’t get no satisfaction?

Try the VFW. Crossfire Hurricane — the Rolling Stones tribute band named for the “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” lyrics — bring their energy and electricity to Post 399 this Friday (July 10).

Doors open at 6 p.m.; the show kicks off at 7. A light bar food menu is available, with drink specials.

Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here to purchase.

I know. It’s only rock ‘n’ roll. But you’ll like it.

Crossfire Hurricane

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Speaking of the VFW: Vocalist Abena Koomson-Davis — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday, for an encore performance (July 9, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).

She’s joined by her husband, trombonist Steve Davis, and pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Jason Tiemann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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This summer, young basketball players looking to reach the top level can learn from 2 slightly older athletes who are already there.

Sam Clachko and Mason Tobias — recently Staples High graduates, who led the Wreckers to the FCIAC championship, and a legendary state tournament final that went to 3 overtimes — are running a week-long camp next month.

From August 3 to 7 (9 a.m. to noon, Staples High School fieldhouse), they’ll work with rising 2nd through 8th graders. Groups will be split by age.

They’ll teach “what it takes to become Staples varsity captains” — while providing an enjoyable, memorable experience.

The cost is $350. Click here to register. Questions? Email samclachko@gmail.com.

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Jan Winston of Westport died Sunday at home, after a long battle with multiple myeloma. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday and 64th wedding anniversary.

Born to Russian and Romanian immigrants, he grew up in South Orange, New Jersey and made life-long friends.

He graduated from Princeton University, where he worked at the campus radio station and earned a political science degree.

Jan had a 35-year career at IBM, in Boca Raton, Florida, Atlanta and Somers, New York. In the early 1980s he helped lead the planning and development of the first personal computer, the IBM PC. His last role at IBM, in the mid-1990s, was leading the speech and pen technology business.

In retirement Jan embraced exercise. He worked out with a trainer for over 30 years. He returned to an executive role, serving as board chair for Inrad, an optics technology company, and for more than two decades as president of the board at Lansdowne condominiums, where he lived for more than 40 years.

Jan is survived by his wife Gail; 3 children Karen Winston (Bruce Nohe), Lauren MacNeill (Neil), and Andrew Winston (Christine); grandchildren Daniel Norman (Maddie Anthony), Julia Norman (Kyle Solomon), Joshua Winston, Jacob Winston and Benjamin MacNeill; nieces Robin and Alyse Winston, and childhood friends Walter, Lenny, Howard and Marty. He was pre-deceased by his brother Donald and niece Mona Winston.

A funeral is set for today (Tuesday, July 7,  11 a.m., Abraham L. Green & Son Funeral Home, 88 Beach Road, Fairfield. Interment follows at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

Jan Winston

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Our “Westport … Naturally” series often includes interesting — but familiar — scenes of local creatures.

Today’s image, from Old Mill Beach, is something we don’t see every day:

(Photo/Marina Drasnin)

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And finally … in honor of the Rolling Stones tribute band this Friday (item above):

(Please click here to support “06880.” Your hyper-local blog is a gas gas gas!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Power Outages, Staples News, American Flags …

Posted on July 5, 2026 | 4 comments

Last night’s brief but powerful storms brought down tree limbs — and power lines — all over Westport and Weston.

And across the state.

Dramatic lightning at Compo Beach. (Photo/Meredith Holod)

At 7:30 this morning, Eversource reported 778 Westport customers — 11.6% of the town’s total — without service.

Another 455 Weston customers (6.1%) lacked power.

The map did not offer restoration times for most outages.

Statewide, the total number of customers without electricity was 71,965 (5.5%).

Last night, “06880” reader Tracy Porosoff sent this report: “We were at the Levitt Pavilion, and saw the lightning from Norwalk before it got to us and closed down the concert.

“Roads were full of branches and debris. Seems like it’s going to be a messy storm.”

She sent this photo too, of a non-functioning traffic light at the Compo Road South/Greens Farms Road/Bridge Street intersection:

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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The Staples High School Class of 1961 was the first to spend 3 years at the then-sparkling new North Avenue campus.

More than 6 decades later, they’re still trailblazers.

For their 65th reunion, Peter Kelman organized a unique virtual event. In late June, nearly 50 alums gathered via Zoom.

For over 2 hours, they shared stories, memories, insights and more.

To keep things from going off the rails, Peter instituted some simple rules. There was a 2-minute time limit for each speaker (he suggested timing them beforehand), and 6 specific topics:

  • Pre-school and elementary School years
  • Junior high years
  • High School years
  • Post-high School lives
  • Remembrance classmates who died
  • Current lives as octogenarians.

There was even tech help available, for men and women whose Staples days included slide rules and blue book essays, not computers and AI.

For security reasons, the video is unlisted. “06880” readers can view it by emailing Peter (phkelman@gmail.com), with details on why you’re interested.

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Westporters of a certain age remember Linda Blair.

She was a 14-year-old Staples student in 1973 — and had been working as a model and actress for years — when she was chosen from 600 others for the role of Regan in “The Exorcist.”

She earned a Golden Globe Award, was nominated for an Oscar — and received death threats for her “blasphemy.”

What’s she up to now?

For one thing, she’s old enough for AARP. (As are, to their surprise, many other people.)

The June/July issue of AARP magazine has a short update.

At 67, she has survived pneumonia and sepsis. She’s devoted her adult life to the rescue, rehabilitation and “rehoming” of dogs.

She runs the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation from Acton, California.

Fun fact: When she made “The Exorcist,” she was too young to watch it in a theater.

Read the full story below. (Hat tip: Douglass Davidoff)

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Several readers have expressed disappointment at the lack of patriotic decorations on Westport homes. Even with a house décor contest underway, flags and bunting is hard to find.

One place to see it: Compo Hill.

Rick and Totney Benson are flying the colors at the exact site where, 249 years ago, colonists and the British battled in one of our town’s most historic events.

The view coming up Compo Hill …

… and at the top, on Buena Vista Drive. Rick participated in the OpSail tall ships event 50 years ago, during America’s bicentennial. (Photos/Rick Benson)

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The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — written, of course, with a quill pen — is a great connection to today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Jerry Kuyper collects these feathers on his Rayfield Road property. As the image shows, that’s a self-evident truth.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … on this date in 1852, Frederick Douglass delivered his “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” speech at a meeting organized by the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society in Rochester, New York.

(The Independence Day holiday continues. So does our “06880” blog. We’re here 24/7/365, because that’s what hyper-local blogs do. If you like our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Staples HS, Weather

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Roundup: America, 250 Years Young …

Posted on July 4, 2026 | 4 comments

The Westport Garden Club’s “most red white and blue” floral arrangement ever is their gift to the town, for America’s 250th birthday.

Created by members Janice Yost and Andrea Cross, the beautiful and festive flowers are watched over by Westport’s iconic patriot: the Minute Man!

Hooray for the red white and blue!

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Compo will never be as crowded as it is for the fireworks.

But don’t count out today.

Between the actual July 4th holiday and the heat, Westport’s flagship beach will see plenty of action.

By 8:30 this morning, South Beach — the area with grills and tables — was already nearly full.

(Photo/Karen Como)

Remember: Unlike the fireworks, there is no reserving spots. You can’t put your stuff down on a picnic table, then head home for a few hours and expect it to be yours when you return.

Play fair! Think of others! It says “No Reserving Tables” right there ON the tables!

Meanwhile, today’s temperature is expected to be a little better than yesterday, with a high of “only” 94.

Tomorrow, it drops to 84.

And on Monday — are you sitting down? — the high is forecast to be just a frigid 79.

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Listen up!

Just in time for America’s birthday, the Westport Library’s Verso Studios has produced  a song tribute: “Hey Hey Hey Happy 250th Birthday USA.”

The uplifting, non-political tune’s lyrics, music and vibe were all created by Verso Studios advisory board member Les Dinkin. He worked with studio producer Travis Bell to polish the song, through dozens of iterations.

They used Verso’s free media resources, including AI toolkits. Click here to listen.

The cover of the Library’s semiquincentennial record.

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Pete Ratkiewich’s long tenure as Public Works director was supposed to end yesterday.

But the job is 24/7/365. In his final hours, he had to deal with an important issue: Both transfer station compactors went down, with electrical problems.

That could have been disastrous. The July 4 holiday weekend brings major trash.

The situation was so dire, one refuse company emailed its customers that because the town could not work on repairs until Monday — and did not know how long it would take — that the company would not pick up trash on Monday, and would adjust its schedule accordingly.

No worries!

At 6:55 a.m. today, Ratkiewich emailed “06880”: “We did have to close early yesterday. We were able to get one compactor working again by the end of the day, so we will be open again on Monday.”

That’s one more reason to thank you for your service, Pete. Thanks too to everyone at Public Works.

Now everyone can go back to celebrating America’s birthday.

And making trash. (Hat tip: Seth Schachter)

Back in action! (Photo/David Meth)

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It’s bad enough that FIFA has stripped stadiums of the names of all corporations that are not official World Cup sponsors.

MetLife is (through the finals there July 19) “New York New Jersey Stadium.” Levi’s is “San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.” Gillette is “Boston Stadium” — though it’s 30 miles from Foxboro.

But that pales in comparison to the new sign on the old Carvel.

It was quite a change 15 months ago, when the local owner balked at the cost of company-mandated renovations, and removed the decades-old logo.

But the new sign is even more generic than those on the World Cup venues.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

Even AI would be embarrassed to produce something like that.

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Diverse programming at the Westport Country Playhouse continues this fall.

Illusionist Michael Grandinetti brings his music/comedy — and of course magic — to the historic stage September 4 (8 p.m.).

He involves the audience in his levitation, teleportation and mind reading feats. Click here for tickets, and more information.

On September 24 (7 p.m.), Ailey II Dance comes to town.

That’s the famed troupe’s “next generation” of talent, brimming with Ailey’s trademark passion and creativity. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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It’s been 3 years.

But this season, the Staples Football Wall of Fame welcomes new members.

The Gridiron Club is seeking nominations for the prestigious honor. The deadline is July 31. The ceremony takes place September 10, at halftime of the home opener against Westhill.

To be considered, players must have graduated at least 10 years ago. Areas of distinction include on-field excellence, post-high school athletic achievement, program impact and legacy, current program involvement, and character and integrity.

Coaches, staff or community members who significantly impacted the Wreckers’ success and culture can also be nominated.

To make nominations, or for more information, email Gridiron Club board member Doug Pardon: DP@brigadecapital.com.


Staples Football Wall of Fame.

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The state Department of Transportation plans to replace traffic signals at dozens of intersections, from Norwalk to West Haven.

One Westport location is on the list: Post Road East, at Maple Avenue North and South.

A public information session is set for July 14 (6 p.m.). Click here for details.

Post Road East/Maple Avenue light. (Photo courtesy of Google Street View)

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“Westport … Naturally” honors July 4th with the closest “natural” red, white and blue photo we could find. Hey, we tried!

(Photo/Marina Drasnin)

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And finally … there are so many patriotic songs we could pick from.

This — from Phil Ochs — is one of my favorites.

And its words are as insightful and important as they were 60 years ago.

(America draws its strength from its people. “06880” relies on our readers. If you value local media, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Jasey’s: Supporting Youth Mental Health, One Toy At A Time

Posted on July 2, 2026 | Leave a comment

Your child is playing with blocks.

They fall. That’s what blocks do.

How does he or she react? And what about you, as a parent?

“It’s okay to feel upset,” you could say. “Let’s talk about it.”

Or, “When that tower fell, how did that feel?”

Handling emotions is one of 6 skills that support children’s mental health through everyday play, Brian and Lauren Bernstein note.

Another one is problem-solving. “It won’t work!” your frustrated child says, when things don’t go as planned.

“Hmmm … what else could we try?” you suggest.

Or “What do you think went wrong?”

The Bernsteins are not child psychologists.

But they do know kids.

Brian — a 1984 Staples High School graduate — spent 21 years in the toy industry. He headed up sales for his brother Doug’s Melissa & Doug company, helping grow the department from 14 people (and the firm was called Lights, Camera, Interaction!) to its enormous e-commerce presence.

Lauren knows children too. She’s been a piano teacher for 40 years.

Brian and Lauren Bernstein

Bernstein, and other family members, left Melissa & Doug in 2021. After a couple of years away, he wanted to get back into the business.

“Developmental pre-school toys are not screens. They’re wholesome,” he notes. “They’re so important at a young age.”

Though wooden toys have become more expensive, he wanted to make them accessible and affordable: $29.99 or less.

But he and Lauren had another reason for starting a new company: a way to honor their late son Jason.

Nicknamed Jasey, he was “an amazing, beautiful child,” Brian says.

“He was a great pianist — he could improvise for hours. He composed music. He taught himself oil painting, and made movies.”

But Jasey struggled with mental health challenges for most of his life. They became more prominent in his teens.

The Bernsteins tried everything: therapists, psychiatrists, programs, medications.

Nothing helped. “He didn’t want to be here anymore.” He lost his battle in 2019, age 25.

Jason Bernstein

Behind the company — called Jasey’s Toy Chest — is a mission: to help families struggling with mental health issues.

The founders partnered with the Kids Mental Health Foundation and the Jed Foundation (serving teens and young adults). The non-profits provide expert guidance and advocacy.

Together, the partners — and Jasey’s Toy Chest — are helping destigmatize mental health. They provide prompts, tips, suggestions, resources and solutions for parents and caregivers to talk about it.

And, Brian Bernstein says, “We’ve kept it simple. This is not a big homework project. Fifteen minutes of play a day can make a difference. It’s all about ‘intentional play.'”

The Bernsteins began shipping their toys in March. Already, they’re on Amazon, and in Awesome Toys. In September, they’ll be featured in 600 Barnes & Noble stores.

Playing with a wooden workbench.

And they’ve just won 5 (very prestigious) Oppenheim Awards.

That’s not child’s play.

But then again, it is.

(For more information, click here for the Jasey’s Toy Chest website.)

(“06880” regularly covers interesting Westporters, local businesses, health and wellness — and, like today, their intersection. If you like these stories, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

Jasey’s Toy Chest display, in Awesome Toys’ Westport store.

 

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Unsung Heroes #438

Posted on July 1, 2026 | 1 comment

Karlin Gray writes:

I would like to nominate the Staples High School library team as Unsung Heroes.

They’re heroes not for any one big act (though they are certainly heroes who stand up to book banning), but for their everyday acts creating a space that inspires learning, connection, and creativity for our kids.

Four years ago my son started as a freshman at Staples, and I signed up to volunteer in the library. If you’ve volunteered there, you know how much the librarians and paraprofessionals do for our kids.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit our high school library, here are just a few things that I learned about the staff’s responsibilities, beyond managing the organization and circulation of books:

They are gracious hosts. All smiles, librarians Jenn Cirino and Nicole Moeller, and paraprofessionals Chris Harris and Jen Dayton immediately set the vibe as they greet students and assist them with any requests. There is a quiet section in the back for those who want it. They have designed sections for socializing, study groups and computer use too. There are also rooms for classes, and a large Maker station. The library also hosts special events like author visits, and talks with town officials.

Staples librarians Jenn Cirino (left) and Nicole Moeller. Cirino was the Westport Public Schools’ 2024 Teacher of the Year.

They are tech-savvy. If students need help connecting to WiFi, charging their laptops, printing out their classwork or troubleshooting a broken computer, the library staff is there. Equipment like cameras, video recorders and a 3D printer are available for use. Fun fact: In Staples Players’ production of “Lord of the Flies,” the big conch shell thrown around on stage was printed in the library!

Paraprofessionals Jen Dayton (left) and Chris Harris.

They have our teachers’ backs. The library staff supports Staples’ educators by providing them with necessary resources for their job. This includes space for special class activities, carts of books for their curriculums, equipment for projects, tech training and more. And because teachers are just like us, I often heard them thanking the staff for recommending their last great read.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, librarians encourage students to thank their instructors.

They are creative curators. The book displays at the library rival those of any bookstore’s. Great thought and creativity go into each one, whether for serious subjects like honoring our veterans or fun event tie-ins like March Madness Book Brackets. All aim to catch students’ attention and direct it to the books. And they even sneak reading into bathrooms, by posting snappy little book blurbs inside the stalls.

The Staples Library celebrates March Madness with a “Tournament of Books” bracket (top), and an eye-catching display (below).

They are crafty. Friday Fun Days are when students can de-stress in the library by playing games or doing arts and crafts. I was skeptical, but it turns out that teens really will use their lunch breaks to create a pop-up birthday card, a “May the 4th Be With You” button, or a bouquet of paper flowers — all with the help of the library’s beloved Cricut machine. I was floored by how much the kids love to make and collect the winter gnomes each year (IYKYK). And, in library lore: Once upon a time, one of the sports teams did not receive part of their uniforms in time for a game. The library staff came to the rescue, creating them in the Maker Space!

Staples principal Stafford Thomas, with gnomes he made in the library.

Now that my son has graduated, my time as a volunteer is over. This fall, new students and parent volunteers will enter Staples Library and experience firsthand why we are so lucky to have Jenn, Nicole, Chris and Jen working in our school system. Until then, I hope these unsung heroes have a relaxing summer break (with plenty of time to get lost in a big pile of great books).

Congressman Jim Himes addresses students in the Staples library.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.) 

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Staples Players Rewind: “Jesus Christ Superstar”

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 2 comments

On the one hand, Staples Players’ summer productions had an advantage: Young actors could concentrate on their show without the distractions of school.

On the other hand, directors David Roth and Kerry Long had much less time to pull everything — acting, choreography, staging, sets, costumes, music — together.

The results were (of course) off-the-charts smashes.

Previous Players’ “nutshells” — highlight reels, compiled lovingly by former Staple High media teacher Jim Honeycutt, who taped all the shows — featured “Les Misérables” and “Rent.

This week it’s “Jesus Christ Superstar,” from the summer of 2011. Click here or below to see.

In the 15 years since the show, many of the actors have gone on to careers in entertainment. Among them:

Johnny Shea (Jesus) is a New York based actor. He has appeared in “Spring Awakening” and “Peter Pan” and more, at Goodspeed, Shakespeare Theater Chicago, Portland Stage Company and others.

Clay Singer (Judas)  has extensive theater credits including “Masquerade” (New York), “Fiddler On the Roof” (St. Louis), “Perchik” (Westport), “The Band’s Visit” (North American tour), “Into the Woods” (Pittsfield, Massachusetts), “Next to Normal” (Vero Beach, Florida), “Man of La Mancha” (Westport), “Romeo and Juliet” and “Ragtime” and “The Full Monty” (both Pittsburgh).

Max Samuels (Pilate, Thaddeus) is a stage and screen actor known for his roles in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” He also appeared in “George Kaplan,” “Angry Young Man,” “The Winter’s Tale” and “The Brothers Karamazov.”

Audrey Twitchell (Annas) has appeared in many commercials, print ads and on television. In 2006 she originated the role of Lee Bouvier in the Broadway musical “Grey Gardens.” She lives and works in New York City.

Charlie Greenwald (Priest 3, Nathaniel, Tribe, Guard) is an actor, voiceover artist, comedian, copywriter and children’s book author. He has appeared in the Academy Award-winning film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the TV special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.” (2018).

Matthew Van Gessel (Matthew)  is an actor, director and writer. He played Isaac Goodenow in the “The Sudbury Devil,” appeared in the film “Bookworm,” was featured as an actor in the project RedDrop, and was cast as Father Rand in “The Vampires of New Orleans.”

Michelle Pauker (Mary Magdalene, Tribe) is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse). On July 5, her band Back to the Garden 1969 will perform at the Levitt Pavilion.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Staples Students Create AI Start-ups

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 1 comment

Artificial intelligence has ushered in a new world. And several Staples students are taking full advantage of it.

They’re  using AI to turn innovative ideas into reality … using AI itself. Here are stories of 2 intriguing startups.

Noah Tomasovic is a rising junior. He’s runs track , plays rugby, is a member of Service League of Boys, started a club that monitors water safety, competes nationally with Future Business Leaders of America, and is working this summer at a commercial real estate firm.

Noah is also the founder of Pilotier. The company installs custom AI systems into local Fairfield County businesses. They handle many details a small business owner has no time or talent for, like building a website, organizing and responding to emails, and scheduling. It’s all done through a dashboard he devised.

Some of those tools already exist, of course. But, Noah says, configuring email through, say, Google Cloud can be difficult. His system allows a user to click one button to connect.

Pilotier integrates many functions into one.

One local client, the owner of Alma Mexican Foods, had trouble reaching decision-makers at large outlets like Big Y and Stop & Shop. Noah built a system that personalizes emails, and ensures they reach the right executive.

His agent also reads all emails that come in. It summarizes them, suggests follow-up actions — then handles them.

Pilotier also handles lead follow-ups for every inquiry and quote, so “nothing falls through the cracks”; social media content, drafted in the client’s voice on a pre-determined (yet flexible) schedule, and invoicing.

Every morning, there is a “briefing,” with to-do lists and suggestions.

Noah Tomasovic offers a free AI audit for businesses. 

“The whole goal of AI is to automate tasks, and help you scale up,” he notes.

“A lot of businesses don’t know too much about AI — or they’re intimidated by it. They don’t know how to use it, but they’re worried about being surpassed by it.”

Noah charges a set-up fee, and a monthly retainer.

It’s all explained in a comprehensive, clear website. Built by Noah — with, of course, help from AI.

(To learn more, visit the Pilotier website, or email noah@getpilotier.com.)

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In the financial world, 4 students have spent a year building a tool for wealth management firms.

Right now, they say, advisors spend hours reading Department of Labor filings and data to find companies whose plans are not performing well, then write custom outreach by hand.

The quartet — Mikael Nagy, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Pranav Tamilselvan and Lucas Nilsson, all rising seniors and juniors interested in computer science and finance — make the prospecting process faster. They use AI to scan public data and create full pitches, score plans automatically, and help advisors land more clients.

Their company, Polamin (the name combines their Polish, American and Indian backgrounds), analyzes hundreds of thousands of retirement plan filings to help advisors find underperforming plans, then generates data-backed proposals.

They say all 146,000-plus plan sponsor in the country is profiled and searchable. More than 152,000 plans are scored, 0 to 100, against size, industry and regional benchmarks, using 3 “proprietary layers”: advisory, core and risk.

AI does all the (very) heavy lifting.

The 4 friends talked for a while about starting a company. They considered analyzing crypto, but realized it was complicated and scam-filled.

From left: Mikael Nagy, Pranav Tamilselvan, Ignacy Nieweglowski.

Speaking with a local wealth management analyst, they learned he spent an enormous amount of tedious time prospecting, looking for poorly performing plans, then reaching out to convert clients.

“We didn’t realize how massive the retirement plan industry is,” Ignacy says.

The proposals Polamin creates are tailored to a prospect’s experiences and interests. They use a variety of voices and styles: conservative, modern or data-heavy.

Screenshot from the Polamin website. 

They were accepted to present at last month’s Yale Innovation Summit. “There were a lot of adults — really, really smart people,” Mikael reports.

They did not win. But they picked up a ton of tips, and networked well.

Since its March launch, the founders have added new features. It’s being tested by a Westport client now. Other interested users can test it for free, too.

Mikael, Ignacy, Pranav and Lucas are decades away from retirement. They haven’t even been to college, or landed their first full-time jobs.

But thanks to their start-up, retirement may become more affordable for countless older men and women they’ll never meet.

(To learn more, visit the Polamin website, or email mikael.d.nagy@gmail.com.)

(“06880” reports often on local businesses — and the achievements of Staples students. Sometimes they intersect. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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