After ICE agents killed a 37-year-old woman in Minneapolis, residents reacted in many ways.
Some protested in the streets. Some delivered food and supplies to immigrants, who are afraid to venture outside.
Josh Resnik went to a Somali restaurant.
The 1988 Staples High School graduate has spent over 3 decades in the Twin Cities, working in the food industry. He knows that the gesture was small.
But it meant an enormous amount to the owner. Her business has suffered as Somali customers fear going out.
Resnik and his son Eli — a high school senior — headed to lunch as a protest unfolded nearby. The owner — in the US for more than 30 years — waved to the protesters. Some later stopped in for a meal.
Somali restaurant owner waves to protestors outside.
Josh and his son also visited a Mexican restaurant. Those owners now keep their doors locked, so ICE agents won’t enter. But diners can knock, and be let in.
Those are 2 small examples of the personal toll the events of the past month have taken on ordinary citizens.
Resnik lives in south Minneapolis, 2 miles from many of the protests.
Daily life, he says, is “weirdly normal for a lot of us. There’s a heavy dose of white privilege.”
But neither he nor anyone else can escape what’s going on.
“There’s an amazing sense of community,” Josh says. ‘People have really come together. They’re not afraid to stand up and speak out. In the darkness it’s very powerful for people to say, ‘This is not who we are.'”
Protestors (left) and ICE agents (right) in Minneapolis.
Immediately after the shooting, schools were closed. When classes resumed, ICE agents chased someone onto a high school campus. A few students and teachers were pepper sprayed.
Remote learning has been offered to students who don’t feel comfortable going to class.
A friend told Josh that one of his Hispanic employees has been pulled over 8 times, because of his dark skin.
It’s not only immigrants. The Black employee of another friend was detained. “This is like 1960s Mississippi,” Josh says.
Between the George Floyd protests in 2020, and this, “We’ve been through a lot here,” Josh notes. “People are shaken.”
Josh believes that President Trump has targeted the city and state.
“He wants violence, to prove the need for ICE. They say ‘if you follow orders, there won’t be a problem.’ But this is so purposefully provocative. The agents arrived here in force, with minimal training.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz have urged protestors to be peaceful. “Don’t fall into ICE’s trap,” they say.
Throughout the Twin Cities, people like Josh Resnik continue to do whatever they can, in ways large and small.
On Saturday, Josh and some friends gathered to watch a football game.
Instead of wings, they ate takeout from a Somali restaurant.
Helping Somali immigrants, one meal at a time. (Photos/Josh Resnik)
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Terry Brannigan is president of the Mat Men, Staples High School’s wrestling team booster club. He is also a former Wrecker wrestler and coach. Terry writes:
We would like to recognize Staples culinary teacher Chef Cecily Gans as a true Unsung Hero, for the extraordinary work she quietly does in support of the Staples High School community — particularly the wrestling team and Staples Players.
For several years, Cecily has generously opened her kitchen to help prepare the food needed to support our wrestling tournaments. This selfless support has been transformative for our program.
She works closely with the captains’ parents to plan menus, calculate quantities, source ingredients and order supplies, to ensure we have a Michelin-worthy concession stand. (Her hundreds of egg sandwiches are renowned throughout the wrestling community.)
Cecily brings her daughter Leila, a Staples student. They arrive as early as 6 a.m. on weekends, and lead a crew of volunteers worthy of any Top Chef competition.
Cecily makes the entire experience joyful and seamless — often without ever stepping out to see the smiles she creates.
Chef Cecily Gans, in her kitchen …
This year, she also opened her kitchen for a pancake breakfast serving 90 wrestlers and coaches during an early-season scrimmage. Hundreds of pancakes, dozens of eggs, hand-cut home fries (the best anyone has ever had), along with coffee, hot chocolate and bagels — it was extraordinary.
At this past weekend’s John Chacho Dual Meet, Cecily and Leila were back at it, once again arriving early to ensure our concession stand was healthy, delicious, and very successful.
This event is one of our primary fundraisers. It would not have been possible without her.
But that’s not all. Cecily quietly provides the same incredible support to Staples Players. The drama organization’s board echoes my praise. They say:
“We could never thank Cecily enough for what she does for the Players cast and crew.
“Chef Gans puts in countless hours ensuring the kids are fueled during the intense weeks leading up to opening night.
… and her daughter Leila, at the wrestling team’s concession stand. Leila is also dance captain for Staples Players.
“Cecily even showed up very early on a Sunday morning — her birthday, no less — to cater brunch following Candlelight.
“Her menu choices are always varied and irresistible. The kids rave about her meals. She created a glittery disco ball cake for ‘The Prom,’ and a full French feast for ‘Les Misérables.’
“Chef Gans is incredibly creative and inclusive. Her gluten-free and vegan options are as amazing as everything else she makes. We are so lucky to have her feeding and fueling our kids through tech week.”
Cecily and Leila embody the very definition of “Unsung Heroes.” Their generosity, creativity, and quiet leadership have made a lasting impact on many students and families at Staples. We are incredibly grateful to see them recognized for all that they give.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!)
“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.)
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)
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)
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.
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)
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.
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 nametoo, 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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