Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Coleytown Actors, Staples Musicians, Blondinit Shabbat Dinners …

Posted on January 13, 2026 | 2 comments

This being Westport, the middle school drama program is as robust as many high schools’ elsewhere.

And — this being Westport — when Coleytown Company plans a fundraiser, it’s Broadway quality.

Literally.

“Carrying the Banner: A Broadway Concert” — set for February 2 (7 p.m.), in support of the troupe’s March production of “Newsies” — features 4 original cast members from Disney’s “Newsies,” with a live professional band.

And one of the performers is from Westport.

Adam Kaplan — a 2008 Staples High grad, and former Players star — played the lead role of Jack Kelly, and was in the ensemble. He also starred in “A Bronx Tale,” the national tour of “Kinky Boots,” and “Show Boat” with the New York Philharmonic.

Another Westport/Broadway connection: The evening is produced by “John Proctor” and “Hunger Games” producer — and Coleytown Company director — Ben Frimmer.

He’s working with Broadway music director Mat Eisenstein (“Newsies,” “Frozen”), on this show. It features songs from “Newsies,” and other hits.

Proceeds will support costumes, sets, lighting, sound and more for Company’s spring production, along with future needs.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Adam Kaplan (far left) with “Newsies” fans.

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Speaking of the arts: Staples musicians made a record this year.

But it’s not the vinyl kind.

A record 69 students earned acceptance into the Connecticut Music Educators Association Western Region Music Festival.

That’s the highest number of students from any school in the region, encompassing more than 50 public and private high schools in Fairfield County.

Students audition through a rigorous process that includes prepared repertoire, scales and sight reading. Performers are selected for honors band, orchestra, choir and jazz ensembles.

Festival participants spend 2 days in intensive rehearsals with guest conductors. It culminates in a concert this weekend at Wilton High School.

Western Region Music Festival students can audition for the All-State Music Festival.

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Speaking still of the arts: Among the Broadway and film stars performing last night in “The Pancake Club” — the first Script-in-Hand-reading of the 2026 series at the Westport Country Playhouse — were Tony Award recipient (and Weston resident) James Naughton, 4-time Academy Award nominee Marsha Mason, and 2-time Tony Award recipient Judith Ivey.

Script in Hand readings take place monthly, on Mondays.

Taking a break from rehearsal yesterday. James Naughton is at far left; next to him in the front row are Marsha Mason and Judith Ivey. Westport Country Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan is 7th from left. (Photo/Andrea Quiles)

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The Blondinit — known for its fine, fresh Israeli food, and special High Holy Days and Hanukkah menus — has added a new feature.

Starting this week, the Church Lane restaurant is offering introduce “Shabbat To Go” dinners.

Serving 4 to 6 people, orders include 5 pounds of slow-braised brisket, saffron rice, Israeli salad, 2 16-ounce salatim of your choice, and 4 latkes.

Orders must be placed by Wednesday of each week. Pick-up is on Friday. Click here; then click on “Shabbat,” and scroll to the bottom. 

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New York Polyphony — acclaimed by NPR for a “rich, natural sound that’s larger and more complex than the sum of its parts,” and by The New Yorker as “singers of superb musicianship and vocal allure” presents a “Sky of the Heart” concert at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (January 24, 5 p.m.).

The vocal chamber ensemble’s innovative programming spans Gregorian chant to contemporary commissions. Their focus on familiar and rare works of the 12-17th centuries brings early music to modern audiences.

A reception follows the performance. Click here for tickets, and more information.

New York Polyphony

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Former Westporter Andrew Wilk was the Y’s Women’s guest speaker yesterday.

The 5-time Emmy Award-winning producer/director/musical theater and symphony conductor/writer — best known as the executive producer of “Live From Lincoln Center” — showed excerpts from “Simple Gifts,” one of his award-winning programs.

Andrew Wilk

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (January 15, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

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Speaking of this Thursday, at the VFW: James Weidman returns, for 2 Jazz at the Post shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).

He’ll be joined by bassist Harvie S, drummer Ryan Sands, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Longtime Westport resident and former Westport Public Schools employee Marjorie Santella died last month in Siesta Key, Florida. She was 91.

Marge grew up in Westport, and attended local schools. She then returned as a beloved educator and administrative assistant.

Marge had 3 children with her husband Lou Santella, the well known owner of Saugatuck’s iconic Riverside Barber Shoop.

She proudly embraced his Italian heritage in many ways, from her collection of Pinocchios to memorable trips to Italy. Marge and Lou were active members of the Sons of Italy, and helped organize many Festival Italianos.

In 2003 the couple retired to Siesta Key. Marge was an avid theatergoer, and Rummikub player. Her family says, “She lived Florida life to the fullest, and brought everyone else along for the ride.”

Marge was predeceased by her husband Lou, and sons Michael and Louis, and sisters Nancy Soyak and Carol Less. She is survived by her son Mark; daughters-in-law Joanne, Emily and Rosé; grandchildren LJ, Adriana, Amy, Christopher, William and Alyse; great-grandchildren Liam and Millie Jean, and sister Loretta Hornyak.

A celebration of life will be held this spring, at Assumption Church.

Marge Santella

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Most “Westport … Naturally” photos show natural scenes — animals, plants and the like — of (duh) Westport.

This one is clearly not natural.

But we’ve never featured a cow before.

So … enjoy this one. Jonathan Alloy spotted it the other night on Woodcock Road off Newtown Turnpike.

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And finally … in honor of Coleytown Company’s upcoming production of “Newsies” — and fundraiser to support it (story above):

(Stop the presses! Big news! If you click here, you can make a tax-deductible contribution in support of “06880”! Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Obituaries, Restaurants, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Lou Nistico Fieldhouse, Band Battle, Senior Center Ukes …

Posted on January 11, 2026 | 12 comments

Years ago, the Staples High School fieldhouse and adjacent gymnasium were named in honor of Lou Nistico.

Part of the noted Saugatuck family that founded and operated the legendary Arrow restaurant (now both Riko’s Pizza and Lomito’s, at 2 different sites), Lou was an ardent supporter of his alma mater.

He provided financial help — very quietly — to the athletic program, and any student who needed it. He gave many teenagers their first job. He was a big man, with an even bigger heart.

But from the day his name went up above the entrance, no one ever called it “The Nistico Fieldhouse.”

Unfortunately too, the sign bearing his name was in disrepair for at least a couple of decades. Letter were missing. It was embarrassing.

Over the holidays, at least that part of Lou Nistico’s legacy was addressed.

The new sign looks handsome and classy:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

Now, if we could only start calling it by its name …

The reflection of lights, and an exercise machine placed in front, don’t detract from this portrait of Lou Nistico near the fieldhouse.

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Last night’s first-ever Westport Library Battle of the Bands drew a large crowd, for an evening of original songs and covers.

The audience voted by QR code. Moss came in first, followed by Breakers. Clockwork and Caravan also played.

Clockwork, at the Battle of the Bands. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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There’s always something going on at the Senior Center.

On Friday, it was “I Wish I was in Hawaii Day.”

Entertainment was provided by The Cukes. As shown below, the ukulele group certainly looked the part.

No word on whether they served pineapple upside down cake.

(Hat tip and photo/Ed Simek)

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Sure, we’ve shown eagles in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But it’s hard to get too much of our national symbol.

Especially when there are 2 of them, as Doug Brill spotted recently, not far from the Y:

(Photo/Doug Brill)

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And finally … in honor of the Senior Center ukulele concert — one of the most popular YouTube videos ever:

(So what’s our “06880” dream? That every reader who enjoys this hyper-local blog clicks here, to support our work. Hey, why not? Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Traffic Lights, Teen Honors, Sorelle Gallery …

Posted on January 9, 2026 | 5 comments

An alert and traffic-conscious “06880” reader emailed us the other day.

He included links to stories about “adaptive traffic signals” — lights that detect real-time traffic conditions and use a fiber-optic network to adjust timing — that have been adopted in Norwalk and Greenwich.

He wondered: Why not in Westport?

Why not indeed?

“06880” reached out to 1st Selectman Kevin Christie. He says:

“Norwalk and Greenwich have implemented adaptive traffic signal technology on signals that they own and operate.

“In Westport, we only have 2 traffic signals that we own and operate: Main Street and Myrtle Avenue, and Main Street and Avery Place. All other signals are under Connecticut Department of Transportation jurisdiction.

“Based on current traffic volumes, those two town-owned signals would not be candidates for this technology at this time.

“The signals that would most likely benefit from this type of technology are along the Route 1 corridor. CTDOT is developing plans to replace traffic signal controllers and install cellular modems at select state-owned traffic signals across several Connecticut towns and cities.

“However, Westport is not included in this initial rollout, as CTDOT is still piloting the technology and evaluating its effectiveness under different state highway conditions before pursuing broader implementation.

“That said, we will continue to advocate for Westport by maintaining strong relationships and ongoing communication with CTDOT.”

Main Street and Myrtle Avenue: 1 of only 2 traffic lights owned and operated by the town.

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On Wednesday, the Westport Police Department honored Emmah Tait.

In August, the Staples High School graduate and Colorado State University sophomore rescued a man whose kayak had overturned in Long Island Sound.

The commendation cited Emmah for displaying “exceptional situational awareness and keen observation skills (and) swift and decisive action …. (She)  acted selflessly and without hesitation. Her calm, courageous response exemplified the highest standards of maritime safety and civic responsibility.”

From left: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Police Chief Dave Farrell, Emmah Tait, and her parents Denise and Chris Tait.

Remarkably, this was not the first commendation given to a Tait family member, for a marine rescue.

In November 1970 Doug Tait — Chris’ older brother, and a Long Lots Junior High School 9th grader — rescued 2 men from a boat that caught fire, 2 miles off shore.

A photo of his ceremony mirrors that of Emmah’s, 56 years later.

From left: 1st Selectman John Kemish, Lieutenant Joseph McAleenan, Doug Tait, Doug’s parents Doug Sr. and Elizabeth Tait.

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Congratulations to Nolan Francis!

The Staples High School senior has just been named a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar.

If that’s not familiar — well, it used to be called the Westinghouse Science Talent Search. It’s one of the most prestigious student awards in the nation.

Nolan — who has worked at Yale University’s Choate Lab, researching a rare skin condition called ichthyosis that can lead to fatal heart disease, and raised funds for research with a long-distance swim last summer — is the first Staples student to earn the honor from Staples’ new science research program.

Nolan is one of the top 300 competitors in the Regeneron program. He was selected from 2,612 students — the largest and most competitive pool since the 1960s.

Staples will receive $2,000, for use toward STEM-related activities.

Forty finalists will be announced January 21. Each receives $25,000, and be eligible for a first-place prize of $250,000.

If Nolan wins, he would be Staples’ second honoree. In 2001, Mariangela Lisanti won what was then called the Siemens Westinghouse Science & Technology Competition (then worth $100,000). She also won the Intel Science Talent Search, earning another $100,000 scholarship.

PS: A bit more about Nolan. He is on Staples’ STEM Journal editorial board, and is vice president of the Science National Honors Society. He’s an AP Scholar with Distinction, founded the current iteration of Staples’ National English Honor Society, has volunteered at Norwalk Hospital’s Catheterization Lab, and was a counselor at Camp Discovery, for children unable to attend mainstream sleepaway camps due to medical conditions.

Nolan also plays violin in the Symphonic Orchestra. He was the first-ever junior captain of the boys swim team. He received the inaugural Junior Leadership Award at the Scholar-Athlete banquet. And he’s been involved with the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Special Olympics swim program since 2018.

Nolan Francis

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A new year begins, and a new chapter unfolds for Sorelle Gallery.

Reacting to shifting trends in the art world — with clients going online more, for support and purchases — the gallery moves on January 27 from Bedford Square to a smaller, by-appointment space at 25 Sylvan Road South.

Meanwhile, they’ll expand their art advisory model. Click here for more information.

Closing soon, and moving to Sylvan Road South.

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Charlie Capalbo — a Fairfield Ludlowe High School graduate and ice hockey player whose battle with 4 separate cancers inspired friends, neighbors, the sports world and countless strangers — died 3 years ago. He was 1 month shy of his 24th birthday.

Charlie’s Westport ties were long and deep. His grandmother is the writer/poet/storyteller Ina Chadwick. Her husband, Richard Epstein (Charlie’s grandfather) is a Westport native; his parents moved here in 1958. Charlie’s mother, Jennifer Wilde Capalbo (Ina’s youngest daughter) is a Staples graduate.

The young athlete’s memory lives on. Next Wednesday (January 14, 5:15 p.m., Sacred Heart University), the Staples-Norwalk-Brien McMahon coop hockey team plays the Fairfield Ludlowe-Warde coop squad.

Fairfield has organized it as “Charlie Capalbo Night,” raising awareness of the National Marrow Donor Program, and raising funds for research.

Fairfield’s head coach is a pediatric leukemia survivor. Parents of current players supported Charlie, when he first got sick. Several years later, they continue to step up, as a community and friends.

Charlie Capalbo (Photo/Dave Gunn)

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Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport is gearing up for an exciting year.

Since 1963, the organization has brought together new arrivals and longtime residents for social events.

On the calendar this month: Couples’ Night Out; a sound bath experience at Hummingbird Healing Center, and book and cooking groups. Click here for more information.

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Pam Docters offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Post Road West, and adds: “Winter’s on its way out! Or maybe I’m being too optimistic?”

(Photo/Pam Docters)

Perhaps not. Today’s high is expected to be be 49 degrees. Daytime temperatures should remain in the 40s through Wednesday.

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And finally … on this date in 1788, Connecticut became the 5th state to ratify the US constitution.

But that’s not why we are officially “The Constitution State.” That refers to the   Fundamental Orders, adopted by the Connecticut Colony in 1639. It is considered by some to be the first written constitution in Western history.

So let’s hear it for us, with our official state song:

(“06880” is where Westport — and Connecticut — meet the world. If you enjoy our hyper-local coverage, connecting our town to our state and beyond, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Transportation

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“Students Speak”: Sharing Grades Adds Extra Stress

Posted on January 6, 2026 | 9 comments

“Students Speak” offers a platform for Westport students to speak out about issues of importance to them.

Ella Turner is a sophomore at Staples High School. She serves Inklings as paper editor and editorial board member, and is part of the Graphic Design Club. Last summer, Ella explored media writing at Vogue Summer School and investigative journalism with the New York Times program.

Ella has studied at Alvin Ailey’s dance intensive in New York. She is a member of the senior company at Westport’s Academy of Dance, performing shows like “The Nutcracker.” Ella writes:

I quit tennis when I was 10 years old.

As someone who couldn’t stand the stress of constant competition, I told my mom that competitive sports just weren’t for me and started a career in dance.

After a while though, my little self realized that in any activity, there would be a level of healthy competition. I slowly adjusted, realizing that it could actually push me rather than hinder my progress.

Ella Turner

At school however, I loved to be in competition with myself. That meant harder classes and more stress. As most Staples students do, I would stress about tests, then worry about the grade I got.

You’d think that would be the end of it. However, once I receive my grade, I am forced to add another level of stress to the already mountain-high stack: the stress of telling others how I did.

Grade sharing is a common occurrence at Staples, to the point where I share and compare my grades with classmates in every class. For most students, it is the norm. It is customary that the second you receive a grade, you feel obligated to share it.

Even when I try to avoid disseminating my grade, I’m often asked outright by others. Sharing grades is now a part of the academic process at Staples, and I, like countless other students, don’t bat an eye at it. But recently, I have  wondered why this is the case.

Some of the blame for the increasingly public nature of grades at Staples is also one of my unfortunately cherished pastimes: checking PowerSchool. Despite the ease that technology has created, students having full access to their grades at any time of day is a risky power. Rather than avoiding the question, or avoiding discussing grades altogether, there’s always the ability to “just pull it up!” — a phrase I am sadly guilty of.

A significant portion of the pressure to share grades stems from the desire for comparison. The culture at Staples is undeniably a feeling of constant preparation for college and the workforce. This leads to yet another feeling that each grade is the defining factor in a student’s future success.

This culture not only enables unnecessary anxiety, but also creates an underlying sense of competition, the kind that can drag a student’s self esteem far down without them even realizing. If they get a bad grade, they need the reassurance that it was still an average or above average grade, and that they are not falling behind others in the constant race to an unknown finish line.

Once a grade is out in the open, whether positive or negative, there are serious underlying consequences that students put on themselves. If my classmate aces an English essay, there becomes this expectation that they are good at English and should be living up to the bar they set for themselves. Effort becomes judged by a letter rather than time and energy. And once stereotypes and expectations are made, breaking those assumptions can feel impossible.

It’s understandable that comparing grades with peers can be exciting, and many people don’t feel uncomfortable with that level of openness. But it’s also important to take into account that many people need a level of privacy when it comes to grades, whether they say it out loud or not.

Rather than asking “What did you get?,” forcing students to reply with a letter grade, try instead “How was the test?” or “How did you do?” This will enable students who are uncomfortable to respond indirectly, which provides a sense of comfort that as of now, not many students have.

As a sophomore who has 2 more years at high school, that means I will be comparing and sharing my grades, whether I am comfortable or not with the idea.

As a community and a school, I believe it is important that we take a step back and reassess the motives for constant grade sharing by asking ourselves: Is sharing your grades for the benefit of others, or the benefit of your self-validation?

(To submit a “Student Speaks” — or for questions about this feature — email 06880blog@gmail.com. We will work with students — at Staples, private schools or home-schooled — to help craft their story. Anonymity, if requested, is assured.) 

(If you enjoy this feature — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Miggs Burroughs, Justin Paul, Jeff Warshaw …

Posted on January 5, 2026 | 21 comments

Miggs Burroughs is many things.

He’s a gifted artist, graphic designer and photographer. He designed a Time magazine cover and a US postage stamp, while still in his 20s.

The son of a noted illustrator, he’s a Staples High School graduate who has spent his career in Westport. He serves corporate clients, but never says no to pro bono work on behalf of local causes. He’s designed logos, posters and promotional materials for a host of organizations.

Miggs created the Westport town flag — and the lenticular photos that grace 2 important spots: the “Tunnel of Love” between Main Street and Parker Harding Plaza, and Saugatuck train station.

Downtown Tunnel of Love (Photo/Susan Leone)

He’s a founder of — and a guiding force behind — the Artists Collective of Westport. And you see him every Memorial Day, as our very own living, breathing Minute Man.

(Photo/Ted Horowitz)

He’s an all-around great, giving guy.

And today, Miggs Burroughs turns 80 years old.

Happy birthday, Miggs! Thanks for all you have done — and continue to do — for Westport, and beyond. Here’s to many years of health, happiness, creativity and coolness. (Hat tip: Carmine Picarello)

Miggs Burroughs

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Justin Paul’s experience in Staples Players — the high school’s award-winning drama program — was foundational to his award-winning career that followed.

The 2003 graduate and his songwriting partner, Benj Pasek, created “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.” They’re the youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winners ever.

High school theater changes many more lives than Paul’s, of course. Wauwatosa (Wisconsin) High just became the first school troupe anywhere to stage “Dear Evan Hansen.”

This weekend, “CBS Saturday Morning” highlighted the production. Included in the story was an interview with Paul and Pasek — and a touching scene of the duo telling the 17-year-old star to “break an arm” (IYKYK). Click here or below to see.

There’s also a link to a full, longer interview with Paul and Pasek. It’s well worth the 38 minutes — excellent questions, and insightful responses (particularly about the importance of high school theater). Click here or below to see. (Hat tip: John Dodig)

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Congratulations to Jeff Warshaw!

The CEO of Westport-based Connoisseur Media has been named Radio Ink’s 2026 Executive of the Year.

The honor recognizes “leadership, innovation, and measurable impact across the radio industry.”

The recognition follows Connoisseur’s acquisition of Alpha Media’s assets, a move that propelled them into the top 10 US radio operators by revenue.

“The spirit of entrepreneurism is alive in the radio industry,” Warshaw Radio Ink interview. “We have pep in our step.”

Radio Ink president and publisher Deborah Parenti calls Warshaw “a risk taker and visionary.”

Editor-in-chief Cameron Coats says that in 2025 Warshaw combined “vision, discipline, and belief in what local radio can still achieve.”

Jeff Warshaw at his desk, overlooking Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Staples High School Class of 1998 graduate Sage Hammond died peacefully on Friday.

She attended the School of Visual Arts, where she deepened her lifelong love of fashion, design and visual expression.

Her obituary says, “Smart and  sassy, Sage lived her life on her own terms. She was known for her quick wit, an exceptional sense of style, and a natural talent for both fashion and interior design. Wherever she lived, she created spaces that reflected her bold taste and creative eye.

“Sage was also a gifted cook who loved sharing gourmet meals with friends, and turning ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions. She loved animals deeply, particularly cats, and over her lifetime shared her heart and home with many.

“Despite her own struggles, Sage had an instinctive ability to lift others up, often making people laugh when they needed it most. Her humor, warmth, and authenticity left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

“Sage lived boldly, loved deeply, and never believed in dull moments—she wouldn’t want one now.”

She was predeceased by her grandfather, Larry Racies. She is survived by her mother, Robin Hammond; father Jon Hammond; sister Gabriele Hammond (Bradley Topar); nephew Oliver and grandmother Gail Williams.

A celebration of Sage’s life will be held at a later date.

Sage Hammond

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo shows a serene Saugatuck Shores scene:

(Photo/Yulee Aronson)

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And finally … the interview with Justin Paul (above) brings to mind 3 great songs, from that life-changing show:

(As “06880” board member Miggs Burroughs turns 80, a reminder: We’re a non-profit — so donations are tax-deductible. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Media, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Roundup: Cross Country Skiing, S’mores, Hoops …

Posted on December 29, 2025 | 9 comments

Alert “06880” reader and outdoor enthusiast Merri Mueller sends this message to people who like to walk in the snow at Longshore:

“The cross country skiing community in Westport lives for snow days. Whoever gets out there first, makes the first tracks. Then we all follow, nurturing and enjoying each other’s tracks.

“Please do not stomp in the fresh made tracks with your boots. It ruins it for all of us. You can make your own boot prints next to the tracks.”

Cross country ski tracks at Longshore. Boot tracks are beside them. (Photo/Merri Mueller)

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Speaking of snow: Nômade’s s’mores are a much-loved Holiday Stroll treat.

But they’re not just for early December.

Yesterday — in the wake of our first big snowfall — s’mores were on the menu outside the Main Street restaurant.

Plenty of passersby were happy to dig in.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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The Staples High School boys basketball team has roared out to a 3-0 start.

They’re favorites to repeat as FCIAC (league) champions, and contend for the state title.

But the Wreckers — under coach Dave Goldshore — also honor their past.

A highlight of every season is the annual alumni game. This one is set for tonight (Monday, 7:30 p.m.).

The turnout is always strong. The competitive spirit — and stories — are legendary.

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Christmas is over. So we can’t show a “Westport … Naturally” image of dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh.

But we can show Charlie doing it.

(Photo/Robin Jaffee Frank)

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And finally … on this date in 1890, up to 300 Lakota people were killed, and 51 wounded, by US Army soldiers in the Wounded Knee Massacre. Thirty-one  soldiers died, and 33 were wounded. “Wounded Knee” has become a rallying cry for Native American rights.

(There are 3 days left, to make a 2025 tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Longshore, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Drew McKeon’s Wedding: “Seal”-ed With A Kiss

Posted on December 27, 2025 | 3 comments

“06880” seldom covers weddings.

But we report often on the great accomplishments of Staples High School graduates. We have a special fondness for those with careers in the arts.

So when a passel of alums — all of whom have found great success in the field — gather for a wedding, well … that’s news.

We’ll start with the groom. Drew McKeon (SHS 2000) — the longtime drummer in fellow Westporter (but non-Staples grad) Michael Bolton’s band — now tours with Seal. (Drew is currently at The Venetian in Las Vegas with Leona Lewis, and can be heard on Teddy Swims’ new album.)

Drew McKeon and Jessica Trainham

So when he married Jessica Trainham in Darien a few weeks ago, the music was not your run-of-the-mill — or even a cut above — wedding band.

Seal headlined. (He waived his usual seven-figure fee for private events. And hired another drummer for the night.)

Most weddings do not have a singer named Seal.

The officiant was a boldface name too, with Staples ties. Justin Paul — the 2002 grad, and second youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) winner in history (6 months older than his “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman” songwriting partner Benj Pasek) — tied the knot.

Drew McKeon and Jessica Trainham, with officiant Justin Paul.

Also in attendance: Alisan Porter. The Class of 1999 alum — who went on to fame in “Footloose” and “A Chorus Line,” then  won “The Voice” in 2016 — sang at the “warm-up” event the night before, at Fairfield Theatre Company.

Drew Angus (SHS ’07, “American Idol” contestant) was at Drew’s wedding too. So was Ryan Smith (SHS ’97).

Ryan Smith and Alisan Porter provide entertainment the night before the ceremony.

The nuptials were not, of course, an all-Staples affair.

Thirty members of Bolton’s touring band flew in from across the country. It was their first reunion since the singer’s brain tumor halted his shows. (He’s in “good spirits and good health,” a recent report says.) They added tremendous energy and musical talent to the weekend.

Meanwhile, for the curious: Drew and Jessica met in West Hollywood. She is a model, actress and entrepreneur, running a home organization business. They live near the beach in Marina del Rey.

But for Drew — and his many Staples musical friends — Westport will always be home too.

The dress code was formal. But when 90% of the guests are musicians, that’s a loose definition. Staples Class of 2001 and novelist Ted Thompson (right) sports a more conservative look.

(“06880” is truly where Westport meets the world. If you enjoy stories like this — or anything else on our hyper-local-yet-also-global blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Question Box #13: Why Isn’t The Candlelight Concert Livestreamed?

Posted on December 21, 2025 | 3 comments

Yesterday’s “06880” lead story told the tale of 2 sisters from Oklahoma — members of the Staples High School Classes of 1961 and ’63 — who returned to Westport this month, for the 85th annual Candlelight Concert. They sang the closing “Hallelujah Chorus” on the same stage they’d stood on more than 60 years earlier.

In the piece, Lucy Weberling wondered why the music department’s annual “gift to the town” is not livestreamed. Thousands of alumni — and grandparents, relatives and friends — across the country would watch. Many have asked the same question.

I put it to Steve Zimmerman, townwide coordinator of arts for the Westport Public Schools. His response provides an interesting look behind the scenes at Candlelight — and into other areas of modern life we may not always think about. Steve writes:

This question comes up often. The reality is that it is the cumulative impact of many complex factors, rather than any single challenge.

First, and foremost, while our concerts are free to the public, the district currently funds a significant amount each year in production costs to ensure a high-quality in-person experience. We can’t simply raise ticket prices or add a new budget line to add streaming.

The Candlelight Concert is an enormous undertaking. (Photo/Jennifer Petrosinelli)

Since the 75th anniversary, the scope of our program has changed. Candlelight now includes a wide range of student-led small ensembles that vary from year to year, from chamber groups such as the piano, violin and oboe trio, to the 16-member women’s a cappella ensemble, to a full rock band with multiple guitars, keyboards and drums. Each instrument has unique requirements to be miced and balanced.

And these groups appear both before and after the combined choir and orchestra of more than 200 students, which has its own challenges (particularly in amplifying the choir). With performers spread across the stage and hall, managing sound reinforcement for the live audience alone is already extremely complex.

Adding a livestream introduces a separate and substantial technical challenge. The audio mix that works well in the room does not translate cleanly to broadcast. To do this properly, we would need a second audio engineer and mixing console to create a dedicated livestream mix, along with many additional microphones. We would also need a producer to manage camera selection and transitions, as we did for both the 75th anniversary and COVID-era broadcasts.

Student ensembles add technical production challenges. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Beyond production logistics and costs, licensing has become a significantly more complex hurdle over the past decade as streaming has expanded all over. Media consolidation and corporate buyouts have placed large catalogs of music, including works by relatively minor composers, under the control of major media conglomerates. As a result, rights decisions that were once straightforward are now handled by large corporate entities whose licensing models are designed around commercial streaming and revenue generation.

We currently pay approximately $1,500 annually for our School Music License, and maintain additional licenses with BMI, ASCAP, and SESAC to cover public performance and audio broadcast. Adding live video streaming would require an additional license, which we estimate would increase annual costs by at least $1,500.

Some works still fall outside these agreements and require individual permissions. In cases involving large rights holders such as Disney, works that originated with relatively minor composers are now owned by major corporations, which often requires extensive outreach to identify the correct contact, and can result in fees of up to $1,000 for a single short choral work.

Music rights add significant costs. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Candlelight performances also include original compositions, such as the vignettes created this year. Some composers, particularly those who are mindful of their professional online presence, are not comfortable having these smaller works broadcast publicly under their name, which adds another layer of complexity.

The level of administrative effort needed to secure rights is currently not possible for teachers. More broadly, we are operating in an era when content owners are increasingly attentive to streaming and enforcement. I act cautiously to protect the district and town, particularly given our community’s strong ties to the arts and media industries and the scrutiny that can accompany questions of fair use. Things are changing, but slowly.

In short, while we would absolutely like to explore live streaming in the future, doing so responsibly would require additional staffing, equipment, licensing and budget. Our goal is to pursue this only if it can be done in a sustainable and high-quality way.

The livestream produced for our 75th anniversary was successful in part because it was a one-time expense and a much simpler production. Similarly, the COVID-era Candlelight broadcast was a significant production. and required nearly 2 years to fully absorb financially. Our current program structure and the unique nature of these events make routine livestreaming a far more demanding undertaking.

I appreciate the desire to experience Candlelight from afar and recognize that these challenges are not insurmountable. Over time, this may become more feasible financially and logistically.

For now, the only way to experience Candlelight is to be in the audience — including onstage, for the “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

(Do you have a question about any aspect of Westport life? Ask us! Email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

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Candlelight Concert: The Oklahoma Experience

Posted on December 20, 2025 | 6 comments

Staples High School’s first Candlelight Concert was in 1941. 

Lucy Weberling took part in the 20th Candlelight, in 1960. But she’s never forgotten it. She was here in Westport for last weekend’s concert — the 85th.

It was a long journey. Lucy lives in Oklahoma. She writes: 

My Staples Class of 1961 was the first class to go all 3 years in the “new” building. (In 1958, the high school moved from Riverside Avenue — now Saugatuck Elementary School — to a campus of 6 unconnected buildings on North Avenue.)

Staples music director John Ohanian created the Candlelight Concert in 1941.

I was in choir, chorus, band and orchestra, under Mr. John Ohanian and George Weigle. I loved all the fantastic arts programs at Staples, and majored in music at Southern Methodist University in Dallas following high school.

My sister Janet Weberling (now Holly Redwood), also was active in the music programs in Staples. She want on to Northwestern University, in marketing.

About 10 years ago I got interested in livestreaming the Staples Candlelight service, and was successful. We sang along to the whole program. It was so uplifting and exciting — really adding to the holiday spirit.

Then they took it way, probably due to ASCAP/BMI issues. I know, because I owned a music venue for a while.

[NOTE: “06880” asked Stephen Zimmerman, the public schools’ town-wide arts coordinator, why Candlelight is not livestreamed. He said that while the music department would like to explore livestreaming in the future, doing so would require additional staffing, sound equipment, licensing and budgets. They will pursue it if, financially and logistically, it can be done in a sustainable, high-quality way.]

I still play music. I taught it in all levels in schools, play in bluegrass and other roots music groups, and jam with friends and other musicians.

I am on the board of bluegrass festivals, and lead yoga sessions at various bluegrass festivals nationally. I also sing in my Unitarian Universalist church choir here in Tulsa.

My sister also sings in the UU choir. Tulsa hosts the Woody Guthrie Center, the Bob Dylan Center, and Leon Russell’s Church Studio. We are all about music.

We have quite an important Native American culture too. There are 39 tribes here, and the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City.

George Weigle was the choral director when Lucy Weberling sang at Staples.

As I get older, and want to experience some of what you might call my “bucket list” ( I don’t call it that), and because my son works for American Airlines, and I can fly either standby or a 20% discount, I thought: Why not go to the Staples concert?

I wrote to Staples, got names of teachers in the music department, and asked about assurance of tickets. (I probably bugged them a lot, but I didn’t want to make plane reservations unless I was sure to get tickets.)

My sister and I made our reservations, I got in touch with my friend Chris Burdette, who also sang in the Staples choir, and we made our plans.

We also wanted to see the holiday lights in New York City. I got in touch with family, and planned that for the day before the concert.

The trip went well. There was a gridlock alert. It was hugely packed. We could barely move. But we saw some lights, and the Rockefeller Center tree from afar.

When it came time for the Candlelight concert, it was so thrilling to enter into the building to a chamber music group welcoming us.

I hurried to find seats. We ended up in the front row — not the best, but the only ones available.

Lucy Weberling at the Candlelight Concert. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Tears came to my eyes as “Sing We Noel” began. It was almost holy.

The selections represented many other religions and ethnicities. That’s so important, and something I miss living in Oklahoma (although we do have a lot of Hispanic, Asian and Muslim heritage here).

The “Kije Suite,” “Bogoroditse Devo,” “Ogo ni fun Oluwa,” “Stille Nacht” — and then the magnificent “Gloria” by John Rutter – all were fantastic.

The view from the audience.

The Candlelight Vignettes — a super version of “Carol of the Bells,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,” “Waltz of the Flowers,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Sleigh Ride”
(wow!), and … the “Hallelujah Chorus!”

I was thrilled to get up and sing along with the choir. Even though I was hoarse, and was with the sopranos.

Lucy Weberling (front, 2nd from left), with alumni and current singers, in the “Hallelujah Chorus.”

This concert will live as one of my most favorite memories and experiences. I still am basking in the glory of the music program at Staples High School. You Westporters are so fortunate to get to send your kids to this marvelous school.

My sis and I were/are so lucky that, when our dad was transferred to the New York office of his company, MW Kellogg, that he chose Westport as our place to live.

I hope to come back again next year.  What a wonderful experience!

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Unsung Heroes #413

Posted on December 17, 2025 | 3 comments

Among Westport’s many holiday traditions, none is more beloved than the Candlelight Concert.

For 85 years — ever since 1941, a few days after Pearl Harbor — the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town has thrilled and inspired audiences.

Musicians — singers, and orchestra and band memories — cherish it as one of the highlights of their school lives. Many return as alumni, to bask in its magic.

Two women — now in their 80s — traveled from Oklahoma for last weekend’s Candlelight. Decades after graduating, in 1961 and ’63, they smiled with joy through the traditional “Sing We Noel” processional, the “Hallelujah Chorus” finale with dozens of alumni joining the stage, and so much in between: the beautiful Jewish tune “Al Shlosha”; the percussive Nigerian song “Ogo ni fun Oluwa”; a haunting rendition of “Stille Nacht”; complex works by Prokofiev, Rutter and Tchaikovsky; creative student ensembles, and more.

It was one of the best Candlelight Concerts ever — a high bar, indeed.

But few members of the appreciative audiences knew what it took to produce this year’s show.

Though they worked since school began, Candlelight preparations never really begin until Staples Players’ fall show ends.

This year’s production — “Les Misérables” — was an especially enormous undertaking. Many of the actors are also singers; all the music teachers played in the pit orchestra.

The final curtain fell just 19 days before the first concert.

Exhilarated but exhausted, they pivoted immediately to Candlelight.

And — because of the way the calendar fell this year — they had one less week than usual to do it.

Meanwhile, Orphenians — one of the concert’s centerpieces — entered their busiest time of the year. They sing at the Town Hall tree lighting, Holiday Stroll, and for organizations all over Westport.

Every adult and young person involved in Candlelight was pulled a thousand different ways, these past few weeks.

But they — along with others who handled sound and lighting, plus tremendous volunteers from the Staples Music Parents Association — pulled together.

I can’t imagine the effort it took. I do know that for all who were fortunate enough to be there, the results were well worth it.

So to townwide arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman; directors Jeri Brima, Carrie Mascaro, Kevin Mazzarella, Lauren Pine, Caitlin Serpliss and Mary Gardner; every young musician, and everyone else who had a hand in the 2025 Candlelight Concert: Bravo! 

You are this week’s Unsung Heroes.

Although this week, “unsung” is definitely not the right world to use!

From left: Carrie Mascaro, Caitlin Serpliss, Kevin Mazzarella, Jeri Brima, Lauren Pine. (Photos/Dan Woog)

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

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