Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Braces, Bargains, Burying Hill …

Posted on September 25, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Braces, Bargains, Burying Hill …

Just when you think you’ve heard everything: read on.

Braces — for decades, one of the most embarrassing parts of many adolescents’ lives — are now cool.

In fact, a New York Times headline announced last Sunday: “Metal Has Never Been Cooler.”

The head-spinning turn of events has a Westport connection. The story began:

Like many middle schoolers across the country, Madison Aballi carefully crafted her look for the first day of 7th grade.

To see old friends and meet new teachers, she walked into her school in Westport, Conn., with a new light pink North Face backpack, complete with a Labubu keychain. She carried a new-to-her iPhone 15 Pro (formerly her mother’s).

And she revealed the biggest fashion flex of 12-year-olds across the country: a brand-new set of metal braces.

Nearly half the class, she estimated, also debuted new metal. “It’s sort of like how lots of people wear Adidas Sambas or Brandy Melville,” she said. “It’s kind of another accessory at this point.”

Teens and tweens have come to embrace braces — and not just any braces: They’re coveting the old-school metal variety of yesteryear.

The piece includes another local name:

Dr. Emily Driesman, Madison’s orthodontist in Westport, has outfitted her office with LED “on” and “off” signs for posting opportunities. Braces have become “a bit of a status symbol,” she said.

Dr. Driesman has also grown accustomed to patients documenting the entire experience. “I’ve had kids Snapchatting from the chair getting their braces on and sending it off to a whole ton of kids,” she said.

Click here for the full article. 

12-year-old Madison Aballi, and orthodontist Dr. Emily Driesman’s LED sign. (Photo/Pamela Zaremba for the New York Times)

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The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston invites everyone to a tag sale this Saturday (September 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

In addition to clothing, home décor, garden items, shoes, books, glassware, bakeware and more, the day includes a grilled lunch and bake sale.

Early bird shopping (9 to 10 a.m.) is available for $10. All proceeds support the church’s mission and community ministries.

All are welcome to the United Methodist Church — and the tag sale. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Sunrise Rotary welcomes a special guest on Friday, October 3.

Connecticut State Treasurer Erick Russell will talk about his work, and the state’s finances. The public is invited to attend, at Greens Farms Congregational Church.

Coffee, bagels and muffins are served at 7 a.m. The meeting starts at 7:30, with Russell speaking at about 8 a.m. RSVP: info@WestportSunriseRotary.org.

Raised in New Haven, Russell is the first in his family to graduate college. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Haven, and a law degree from the University of Connecticut.

As treasurer Russell administers Connecticut’s pension funds (over $62 billion in assets), oversees the state’s debt and cash management, collects and returns unclaimed property, and manages the Connecticut Higher Education Trust.

State Treasurer Erick Russell.

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Staples High School Class of 2019 graduate Donny Macaluso’s day job is running his business: Don’s TEL (Trees, Excavation, Landscaping).

But on October 12, he’ll run the Chicago Marathon.

As he so often does, Donny will be helping others.

He’s fundraising for Salute Inc. They provide essentials like rent, utilities, food and car payments to current military members and injured veterans, during times of financial stress. Click here to support Donny — and Salute. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Donny Macaluso

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The weather has turned iffy.

But it was beautiful earlier this week. William Weiss snapped this photo at Burying Hill, which he calls “Last Day at the Beach.”

(Photo/William Weiss)

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between September 17 and 23.

A 28-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with criminal impersonation, interfering with an officer, operating a motor vehicle without a license and failure to obey a stop sign, following an investigation into a July complaint of a victim of identity theft.

A 21-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with operating under the influence of alcohol/drugs and failure to drive in the proper lane, following the report at 3:46 a.m. ofo a vehicle stopped at the Post Road East/Sherwood Island connector traffic light that did not move for multiple cycles, then rolled into a utility pole on the shoulder of the road.

A 32-year-old Stratford man was charged with breach of peace, after a verbal and physical disturbance between 2 people near the Saugatuck train station.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Speeding in a school zone: 4 citations

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Improper turns: 1

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This is a legit “Westport .. Naturally” photo. No Photoshop or other funny business.

But speaking of funny — doesn’t this passionfruit of Wendy Levy’s deck look just like a jester?!

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … as noted above, metal braces are suddenly cool. So today we salute the metal — heavy metal, that is.

(Pardon us for being a bit paranoid. But why do people read “06880” every day, without supporting us? Is it something we said? To avoid being a freeloader, please click here. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Soccer Coaches, Sign Spinner …

Posted on September 23, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Soccer Coaches, Sign Spinner …

“Grey’s Anatomy” creator/Shondaland CEO/Westport resident Shonda Rhimes gives a lot to our town — and to Dartmouth College.

The 1991 grad’s 2014 commencement address went viral. She is  a member of the board of trustees.

Now she is backing the school’s housing vision. She pledged $15 million to name one of the new undergraduate residence halls.

The 5-story Shonda Rhimes Hall is both the first Dartmouth building named for a woman, and the first named for a Black alum. It opens in 2028. (Hat tip: Andrea Cross)

Shonda Rhimes, and her new dorm. (Rendering by Elkus Manfredi Architects; photo courtesy of Shondaland) 

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This Saturday’s Staples-Fairfield Warde boys soccer game will be a great one.

And not just because the Wreckers and Mustangs are 2 of the top teams in the FCIAC.

After superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and the Board of Education refused to renew the contracts of Staples head coach Russell Oost-Lievense and staff member Chris O’Dell, they were quickly hired as Warde assistants. They’ve been embraced by the players, athletic department and administrators.

O’Dell and Oost-Lievense are very happy in Fairfield. But they still love the Westport program, where both were high school captains (in 1994 and 2007, respectively).

So they’ve made Saturday’s 1 p.m. match at Warde’s Tetreau Field into not an us-against-them affair, but a we’re-all-in-this-together one. It’s called the “Gold Game.”

Led by the Warde parents, working with Staples parents, players on both teams have purchased game day socks, to raise funds to fight pediatric cancer through LivFree.

Players on the 2 squads are also soliciting donations of prizes. They’ll be used for a “Goals for Gold” penalty kick event for youth players, before and after the game.

The goal is to raise $10,000.  Click here to donate.

There’s much more on Saturday, including giveaways — plus, of course, a great game.

Oh, yeah: Why is the theme “gold”? Supporters of both teams are encouraged to wear that color — not Staples blue, or Mustang red.

We — and they — are all in this together.

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You never know what you’ll find on “06880.”

Or what you’ll see when “06880” wanders around town.

The other day, I was downtown with Thomas Samaranayake (@thomas_sam123) — “06880”‘s fantastic social media guru — plus Frank Rosen and Mark Sogofsky, longtime News 12 producers who have started their own video company.

They offered to create an Instagram “donate to ‘06880’ video for (and with) me. (Many desktop, laptop and mobile users know this blog relies on reader support; most who follow us on social media — @06880danwoog — don’t.)

I did not know that Frank planned a 4th person: Ryan Inzero, the Fairfield-based “Sign Spinner.”

What I envisioned as a quick little bit turned into quite a bit more. Click here or below to see — and enjoy.

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There are lots of distinctive houses in Westport.

The Wall Street Journal has just introduced one of the most colorful to its readers.

The home, on Beachside Common above Burying Hill Beach, belongs to biotech entrepreneur/investor/scientist Alan Walton and his wife Elenor.

They bought the 1970s contemporary in 2000 for $6.3 million. It was expanded and “reimagined” in the 1990s — for $13 million.

The exterior …

With its floating staircase, periscope skylights, rainbow glazing purple carpet — and a 150-foot multicolored tile pathway that “meanders” through the house — it’s not for everyone. (Several online commenters made that quite clear.)

Alan died in 2015. Elenor died this past February. The couple was a much-admired part of their tight-knit neighborhood.

In her will, Elenor told her children to sell the property.

The 9,500-square foot home, with 5 bedrooms and 7 1/2 bathrooms on 2.6 acres, is listed for $5.95 million. To see the listing, click here. To read the Wall Street Journal story, click here. (Hat tip: Mary McGee)

… and the living room.

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“06880” has reported on Saturday’s very successful LobsterFest. The Westport Rotary Club raised about $400,000 for a variety of non-profits, in Fairfield County and abroad.

Here’s another part of the story that’s worth telling.

CORR — Collective Oyster Recycling & Restoration, a non-profit that organizes a statewide sustainable shell recovery and recycling network, reclaiming shells from restaurants, seafood businesses and events, diverting them from landfills to use in shellfish restoration projects — was at Compo Beach, working hard.

They gathered used oyster shells from the Copps Island raw bar crew, and from festival goers at the waste disposal area.

CORR collected 175 pounds of shells — 7 buckets worth. They will be dumped back into the Sound to create new oyster reefs (baby oyster larvae attach to the old shells). (Hat tip: Hunter Peterson)

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Golfers are familiar with birdies and eagles at Longshore.

They may be surprised to find a coyote there too.

A pair of hawk-eyed “06880” readers sent photos from the course. Fore!

Enjoying a sand trap … (Photo/Robert Crowley)

… and at the 4th hole … (Photo/Tim Steele)

… and heading toward the next one. (Photo/Colin Livingston)

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Faherty celebrates its first year at 26 Main Street with a “Day of Gratitude + Good Vibes.”

They’ll showcase their new fall; give away free totes — and donate 10% to Sweet P Bakery, the company owned by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello that trains and employs people with disabilities.

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Jazz at the Post’s “September Piano Madness” ends this Thursday (September 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).

Azerbaijan pianist Amina Figarova returns to VFW Post 399. Last year’s performance of “Suite for Africa” during her CD release tour, with her sextet and the Matsiko World Orphan Choir, was stellar.

She’ll be joined by flutist Bart Platteau, trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Mark Lewandowski, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Longtime Westport resident Elaine Levy died peacefully on Sunday. She was 86, and had battled cancer.

The University of Pittsburgh graduate had a lifelong love of learning.

She met her future husband, Roy Levy, on Nantucket. They moved to Westport in the early 1960s, and raised a family here.

Elaine also built a career in Westport’s retail world, working in fashion and furniture.

She was known for her love of tennis, vibrant social life, and and joy in entertaining and dining out.

Elaine was predeceased by her husband, and by her sister Nina Fingerhood. She is survived by her daughter, Annie (Sam Vail), son Joshua, and grandchildren Roy and Graceanne Vail.

A private celebration of her life will be held September 26. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, designated for small cell lung cancer research.

Elaine Levy

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Sonny Curtis — a singer-songwriter who performed with Buddy Holly (and was his pallbearer), opened for Elvis Presley and wrote hits like “I Fought the Law” (plus the theme song for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” which he also sang) — died Friday in Nashville. He was 88.

Click here for a very interesting obituary, and all the way below for a fascinating interview.

As for the video immediately below: It will be the best 2 minutes of your day.

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And finally … in honor of Ryan Inzero, the amazing “sign spinner” in the “06880” donation story above:

(Our “06880” fingers are tired, from all this Roundup typing. But we do it for you! If you enjoy, learn from or just kinda like our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

 

 

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Introducing “06880”‘s Newest Feature: “Students Speak”

Posted on September 23, 2025 | 5 comments

Today’s teenagers have a lot on their minds.

Pressures: academic, social, parental, peers. The future: their own, and the planet’s. Dreams. Nightmares. Navigating a turbulent time in life, in a high-powered, high-achieving, high-demanding town. 

What today’s  teens do not have is a way to express what they think, feel, know, and are trying to figure out.

Now they do. 

And now they can share their thoughts with an audience that needs to hear them.

Today, “06880” introduces a new feature: “Students Speak.”

Created with the help of “06880” board member Will Enquist — a senior at Staples High School — it’s a feature that will give a voice to all young people in Westport and Weston. Any student who lives here — or goes to school here — is welcome to share their thoughts.

We’re looking for honest writing, about real life. It’s not about what they’ve accomplished; it’s about who they are.

We want to hear from every type of teen: those who love their school and town, and those who hate it. Those who fit in, those who don’t, and those who are not sure of their place. Those who sing, skateboard, study, and those who have not yet found their passion.

This feature is different than a college application essay, or a formulaic piece for a class. And if you’ve got something important to say, but prefer not to let the town know who you are, anonymity is assured.

The first “Student Speaks” speaker is Staples senior Griffin Delmhorst. A vice president of Players — the renowned drama troupe — he will play Jean Valjean in their November production of “Les Misérables.” He is also the senior manager of Players’ Paints, Web & Archive, and Maintenance crews. Griffin writes:

As a high school senior, this will be one of the most memorable years of my life. After 4 long years, I have built a community for myself at Staples. I can confidently say that I surround myself with people who have my best interests in mind. There is no aspect of my life that I can thank more for this than Staples Players.

Griffin Delmhorst as Leaf Coneybear in last spring’s “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” (Photo/Kerry Long)

Staples is one of the top high schools in the nation. It is diverse in its electives, providing opportunities for students to have a background in almost every career path they could imagine, from forensics and costume design to kinesiology.

Because of its great programs, it holds great expectations for its students. As I walk through the halls, I hear nothing but buzzes about AP courses, the SAT and colleges. It is hard to escape these pressures that are so demanding for every student, when they surround you everywhere in your learning environment.

Yet whether it be on the soccer field, or in the choir room or costumes shop, each student eventually finds their home as they ascend through high school.

For me, I immediately know I am at home once I turn past the cafeteria at 2:45. Matched only by the beaming smiles and roaring laughter of the current students who are part of Staples Players, the welcoming and loving presence of past students who have engaged in this community echoes through the beauty of the marks they have left behind, through their signatures on the walls, murals, or clothes they left outside the Black Box years ago.

Griffin Delmhorst with Emmy-, Grammy-, Oscar- and Tony Award-winning (and 2003 Staples graduate) Justin Paul.

This environment is juxtaposed completely against the pressurized one that exists in other hallways. I feel my shoulders relax as I see my best friends.

I stride past posters of our current production of “Les Misérables” with a beacon of excitement for what’s to come from this fantastic musical inside of my heart.

The most important issue to me in high school is students not feeling like they belong. It is all over social media. It floats in the subconscious of second-guessing students’ minds, wondering if their activity, or lack thereof, is the right path for them.

I am entirely grateful that I am in the right place as I sit in the Black Box. And as a senior, I have strived to make sure that underclassmen who join Players feel the same way.

We were all once wandering underclassmen trying to find our groups and our personalities. As an upperclassman, it is my responsibility to act as a leader of the organization that became my group.

Griffin Delmhorst as Ladahlord in “James and the Giant Peach.” The lyrics and music were co-written by former Staples Player Justin Paul. (Photo/Kerry Long) 

Unlike the academic pressures of Staples, the second-guessing of whether you are in the right place truly does go away with time.

If there is a takeaway from my high school career, that is what it would be: the understanding that as students we are all in the same boat, with the same struggles and the same doubts, is fundamental to excelling socially and academically in high school.

Further, I believe that understanding that as humans we are all in the same boat, with wanting to belong and prosper, is fundamental to excelling in life.

In Staples Players, all participants can find their home and feeling of belonging because of the widespread opportunities that it provides, whether it be on stage, crafting costumes, building sets or designing a website.

As an actor, I am required to do technical work on the side. I have witnessed first hand how people have found their homes, and been able to be successful and create art that will outlive them.

Although we can’t always escape our academic pressures, it is nice to find a home where we can relate our pressures to one another. In a vast environment such as Staples, it is hard not to be incredibly grateful for all of the homes that there are to choose from.

(To submit a “Student Speaks” story — or for questions about this feature — email 06880blog@gmail.com.) 

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Every day, we bring you news, events, opinions, photos and much more. But we can’t do it without the support of our readers. Please click here to contribute. Thanks!)

 

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Roundup: Local Politics, International Soccer …

Posted on September 21, 2025 | 21 comments

Conventional wisdom is: No one pays attention to political campaigns until after Labor Day.

Well, Labor Day has come and gone. And as Election Day nears, Westport’s League of Women Voters offers a number of opportunities for residents to hear — and question — candidates for a variety of local offices.

Democracy requires informed voters. Mark your calendars for:

  • “A Conversation with 1st & 2nd Selectperson Candidates”: September 26, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
  • “Fall Brunch & Design a Sign: Meet Your RTM Candidates”: October 4, 10 a.m. to noon Westport Library. The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities to keep kids occupied. Co-sponsored by “06880.”
  • “Selectmen Candidates” (October 14, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall); co-sponsored with Westport Youth Commission. Special event for students; adults invited too.
  • “A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates”: October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
  • “Board of Education”: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall
  • “Planning & Zoning Commission”: October 23; site TBD.
  • “Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance”: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library.
  • “Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission”: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library.

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Congratulations to Natalie Chudowsky!

The Staples High School senior has been chosen for the US U-17 women’s national soccer team.

She’ll travel with the squad next month to train in Spain, then will compete in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Natalie was a 3-year star for Staples, but because of national team duties is not playing for the varsity this fall. Her current team is New York Soccer Club.

She’ll graduate in January, and head to Duke University.

This past spring, Natalie started all 3 games at center back for the US U-17 team, at the CONCACAF Tournament (World Cup qualifier), in Trinidad & Tobago. The Americans won all 3 matches, against the hosts, Honduras and El Salvador.

She also played in a pair of friendly matches this summer, against Japan.

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The nights are getting shorter, but they’re still filled with Levitt Pavilion music.

Argonaut, Wasp, and Wild & Company entertained last night. The crowd — of all ages — loved them.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

 (Photo/Susan Garment)

Shout-out to the lighting and sound guy, Randy Thomas! (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a bit larger than life.

Thankfully.

(Photo/Susan Iseman)

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And finally …

 

 

 

 

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Roundup: Crafts, Cards, Kids …

Posted on September 20, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Crafts, Cards, Kids …

CraftWestport — the annual Westport Young Woman’s League fundraiser that traditionally kicks off the holiday season — returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse this year, with new dates.

Over 165 artists and makers will show their wares on December 6 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and December 7 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Called “the longest-running indoor fine craft festival in Connecticut,” it includes handmade works in jewelry, fashion, home decor, ceramics, furniture, photography and art. Click here for details.

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Staples juniors Jonah Bomback, Peter Klopfer and Asher Vengrow — passionate athletes and young entrepreneurs — have combined their love for trading cards with a desire to make a difference.

Their business, Cardz Against Cancer, is about more than buying, selling and collecting sports cards. The boys donate 50% of all proceeds to the fight against childhood cancers, through Yale Smilow Cancer Hospital.

Since launching in August, they have raised $500 from card sales, and several thousand dollars through a direct donation link on their website.

Last weekend, the trio participated in the Northeast Sports Card Expo at Chelsea Piers in Stamford. They are available for private events too.

Purchases and donations can be made through their website.

From left: Peter Klopfer, Asher Vengrow, Jonah Bomback. 

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Calling all theater kids!

The curtain rises on the Westport Country Playhouse children’s education program, Playhouse Playmakers, on October 12.

The 6-week program is for grades 6-8. Students will create an original play — including writing, acting, rehearsing — and production, culminating with a performance on the Playhouse stage for family and friends.

Playhouse Playmakers runs 7 Sundays, through November 23 (1 to 4 p.m.).

The fee of $575 including technical rehearsal, materials, and 4 tickets to the performance. Scholarships are available, including transportation reimbursement.

Click here for details and registration. For questions or scholarship information,  email mmeath@westportplayhouse.org.

Youngsters get a chance to star on the famed Playhouse stage.

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The Staples boys varsity golf team set a record on Thursday, shooting 5 under par.

Charlie Curran, Philip Sullivan, Chris Taylor and Gus Palmer each contributed to a combined score of 135.

The team remains undefeated, and at the top of the FCIAC league. Individually, both Palmer and Sullivan are ranked top 10 in the FCIAC. Palmer is. Sullivan 7th.

 From left:  Jordan Benaderet, Philip Sullivan, Gus Palmer, Chris Taylor, Lukas Snow, Charlie Curran.

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The recent death of Robert Redford has brought a flood of memories of his friendship with Paul Newman.

Bill Dedman sends along a 2015 interview with Redford. At the 2:34 mark, he tells a long, funny tale about the practical jokes he and Newman played on each other, when both lived in Westport. Click here or below to see.

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Preparations are complete for this afternoon’s LobsterFest.

The annual Westport Rotary Club fun/funky/crustacean-filled fundraiser takes place at Compo Beach, from 3 to 7 p.m.

If you haven’t bought (or clawed) a ticket: You’re out of luck. The event sells out nearly instantly every year.

See you this afternoon — or in 2026!

Those lobsters (and all the trimmings) don’t fall out of the sky. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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The history of agriculture, manufacturing and textile production in this area during the 19th and early 20th centuries is on display in a new interactive exhibit, “Weston at Work,” at the Weston History & Culture Center.

Children can card wool, weave on a loom, use a rope and pulley to raise a hay bale, and more. The exhibit includes hands-on activities, rare tools, farming implements, a working loom and historic images.

It highlights the many people — including immigrants, African Americans, women and children who helped put Weston to work.

The opening is October 5 (1 to 4 p.m.). Admission is free; donations are welcome.

“Weston at Work” is then open every Thursday (1 to 4 p.m.) and Sundays, November 2 and December 7 (1 to 4 p.m.). $5 for adults, $3 for children 5 – 17, free for members and children 4 and under.

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Another bobcat sighting. This one was Thursday, in the Old Road area:

(Photo/Robert Steven Williams)

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On Wednesday, noted constitutional scholar and Yale professor Akhil Reed Amar spoke to a packed Westport Library crowd about his new book “Born Equal: Remaking America’s Constitution.”

After his remarks, he chatted with Staples We the People teacher Suzanne Kammerman. The professor was impressed to hear the school placed 8th in the nation at last year’s competition last year.

Kammerman hopes to have Amar speak to her class later this year.

Suzanne Kammerman and Professor Akhil Reed Amar. (Hat tip and photo/Danielle Dobin)

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Speaking of Staples: The Institution Saint Joseph in Le Havre, France has invited the high school to the  Normandy International Youth Leadership Summit in November. Delegates are high performing students interested in world affairs.

Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski and Jori Altman will join peers from around the world, in the international event.

From left: Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Jori Altman.

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The Westport Tree Board’s “Oaktober” event — featuring oak tubeling handouts, kids’ activities and more — has been rescheduled.

The new date is Saturday, O(ak)tober 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Jesup Green.

Westport Tree Board member Ed Picard offers an oak sapling to Dylan Rosen, at the 2022 Oaktoberfest. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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Wells Preston — a member of Staples High School’s Class of 2004 — died last month. He was 40 years old.

His love of the outdoors began at Camp Keewaydin in Canada. In high school he honed his skills on NOLS trips in the Cascade Range. He returned as an adult, to summit its highest peaks.

Wells learned to sail at Longshore Sailing School, then raced at Tabor Academy. He later taught sailing and kiteboarding.

He studied creative writing, literature and religion at Eckerd College. He taught English at a St. Petersburg, Florida high school, where he met his future wife Christine Lupo.

They moved to Seattle in 2010, lured by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Four years later they relocated to Portland.

They roamed far and wide in a camper van, from Alberta to Baja Mexico. They traveled over 30,000 miles in 2 years, visiting every national park west of the Rockies.

His family says, “In his photos -– as in the stories he shared of hiking, climbing, skiing, fishing, kiteboarding, and simply breathing the air in these majestic places –- Wells made you feel his reverence for nature and the spirituality it stirred in him.”

He was also an excellent cook.

Wells is survived by his wife Chrissy; sisters Regan and Lilly; brothers-in-law Jordan, Nik and James; sisters-in-law Meghan and Sally, and 6 nieces.

A memorial service will be held November 16 (10 a.m., Tampa Bay Watch). Donations may be made in his name to the National Parks Conservation Association or the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Wells Preston

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Just a few yards from downtown, Deadman Brook is a haven for wildlife.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows one small slice — at its most natural.

(Photo/Janine Scotti)

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And finally … on this date in 1973, Jim Croce and 5 other people were killed when their light aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in Louisiana.

(Where else but “06880” can you read about upcoming events and Westport’s youth, and remember Robert Redford and Jim Croce — all in one place. So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Jeff Greenwald’s Mental Edge For Young Athletes

Posted on September 18, 2025 | 4 comments

In the car ride home after his teenage son played poorly in a tennis match, Jeff Greenwald asked, “What were you thinking out there?”

“My ranking will drop,” the boy replied.

“And then what would happen?” Greenwald asked.

“I won’t get into a good college. I won’t get a good job. And I’ll be homeless,” he said.

He was not kidding. All that had gone through the young athlete’s mind.

Greenwald could relate.

Jeff Greenwald, in his Staples days.

In 1984 — playing #1 for Staples High School — he won a rare triple crown: the FCIAC and state LL (largest schools) singles championships, and the team’s 3rd consecutive state title.

After college, he continued to compete.

Greenwald won the US 35-and-over national singles and doubles championships. He was ranked #1 in the world International Tennis Federation men’s 35 category, for both singles and doubles.

He kept playing — and winning — in older age groups too. In 2019, he was inducted into the NorCal Hall of Fame.

But Greenwald was not a professional tennis player. He’s a clinical and sports psychologist in northern California. So he listened to his son’s fears as a concerned father, a fellow athlete, and a sports psychologist.

He recounts that experience — and many others — in “The Mental Edge for Young Athletes: A World Champion’s Mental Toughness Guide for Athletes, Parents and Coaches in the Digital Age.”

Greenwald’s second book — his first, “The Best Tennis of Your Life,” published in 2007, sold 80,000 copies — is a clear-eyed look at the realities of being a young competitor today.

Things were not easy when he wrote his first book. They’re exponentially tougher today.

Greenwald’s goal was to “pass on the principles I know now — and wish I knew earlier — in a way kids can relate to,” he says.

He does it without preaching or offering checklists, but by telling stories.

His audience is also parents. Greenwald hopes that reading “The Mental Edge” will help them open up conversations with their youngsters.

“We’re human. We have adrenaline. We want to win,” the sports psychologist notes.

“But there are no guarantees we will. The mind doesn’t like that. So we worry about things we can’t control, rather than focusing on the things that can make winning happen.”

Social media exacerbates already-existing pressures.

Jeff Greenwald

“There’s nowhere to hide,” Greenwald says. “All the time, you see the best of the best. You think you could be so much more than you are.

“Then throw in all the money that’s offered now in college — and high school. The pressure all goes in one direction.”

It’s no longer enough for a coach or parent to say, “Just have fun!”

“Just having fun hitting a tennis ball and playing has been decimated,” Greenwald believes.

“It’s become a job. Kids feel, ‘I’ve done this for so long. I’m supposed to do it. I have to keep going.'”

Greenwald believes that focusing on mastery can produce good results. “It’s good to want to win,” he notes. “Just do it in a smarter way.”

“The Mental Edge” helps athletes, parents and coaches strengthen resiliency to excel under pressure; lessen anxiety, and compete with freedom; create a mindset of success and positivity within an entire family, and build focus for peak performance.

Meanwhile, in individual consultations, he finds that “moving the needle with families is harder now. It takes longer to pull them long.” Eventually, parents warm to his approach. “They appreciate having a spot to land,” he says.

But Greenwald warns against too much parental emotional investment in any child’s sport.

His daughter’s passion is track. She recently told her father, “I don’t want you to watch me run. That’s my sport. You don’t need to be there.”

That was hard to hear. But it was a lesson he took to heart, as a sports psychologist.

And a father.

(“06880” reports often on Staples graduates, sports, teenagers — and, as we do today, the intersection of all 3. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Doctor/Author Heather Frimmer Says: “Always Hope”

Posted on September 17, 2025 | 1 comment

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

That’s important to many women.

It’s particularly noteworthy for Heather Frimmer. She is a radiologist, specializing in breast imaging.

The Weston resident is also an author. Her third medical fiction novel, “Always Hope,” will be published October 14.

The tale of healing and hope explores the intricacies of medicine, law and redemption. It’s told through 3 characters: an obstetrician haunted by trauma, a mother raising a child with cerebral palsy, and an attorney striving for redemption.

Frimmer combines professional expertise with detailed research, to tackle themes like the fallibility of doctors, the complexity of parenthood, and the healing power of foregiveness.

Dr. Heather Frimmer

Her routes to medicine — and writing — were hardly foreordained. She had no family members or friends in medicine. But Brandeis University had an excellent pre-med program, so she studied to become a clinical psychologist.

During Cornell/New York Presbyterian medical school, residency and fellowship, she pivoted toward radiology. Her focus now is on reading breast mammograms, ultrasounds and MRIs, and performing image-guided breast biopsies and localizations.

During her intern year she met Ben Frimmer on Jdate. They clicked, and married. He was raised in Westport (and graduated in 1988 from Staples High School), and they soon found a home in Weston.

They have 2 teenagers, a lazy goldendoodle, and just celebrated their 23rd anniversary.

In 2014, Frimmer took an introductory writing class at Westport Writers’ Workshop. Supported by that warm community, she found the talent — and courage — to publish novels.

This year, she joined the Writers’ Workshop board, to give back to a place that she loves.

With a demanding job, 2 kids and a dog, finding time to craft a novel is not easy. Writing on her days off (Wednesdays), weekends and vacations, she finishes a rough draft in just over a year. She spends the next year revising and polishing her words.

Though Frimmer is a physician, she has not had first-hand experience with the “medico-legal system” (she adds, “knocking on all the wood over here”).

However, 1 in 3 US doctors wil face a malpractice suit during their careers.

Frimmer has seen friends and colleagues navigate perilous journeys through “the confusing and frightening world of medical malpractice law.” She has seen lawsuits shake physicians to their core, “wreaking havoc on their hard-earned confidence, relationships and mental health.”

In “Always Hope,” she shows how a malpractice suit affects both the plaintiff (who claims to have been harmed by the medical system), and the physician pinned with the blame.

As part of her research, she interviewed 5 obstetricians about their experiences. “Their honest and often heartbreaking testimonials added color, pathos and authenticity” to the book, Frimmer says.

This novel is not about her. But, she says, “certainly threads of truth from my life are woven throughout hte narrative.”

Like the main charcter, she too has been sandwiched between ailing parents and teenage children, all vying for her attention while she also cared for her patients.

Like her main character too she has a non-binary child whom she supported as they navigated their gender transition, and changed their name and pronouns.

The audience for “Always Hope” is “anyone who has ever set food in a hospital or doctor’s office,” Frimmer says.

Fans of medical TV shows like “ER,” “Lenox Hill” and “The Resident, and books like “Miracle Creek” and “Ask Again, Yes” will also appreciate it.

Meanwhile, the author is gearing up for a busy October. She’ll be at the Westport Library’s StoryFest on the 18th, hosts a release party later, and is set for a signing at New Canaan’s Elm Street Books on October 25 (2 to 4 p.m.).

She wants “06880” readers to know that for average risk women, screening mammography should begin at age 40. Those with increased risks should start earlier.

And if you have symptoms — a lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, change in consisency or any other breast changes, no matter what age — tell your doctor.

(“06880” covers books, medicine, people, events — and much more. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Stolen Cars, Sustainable Selectmen, Stephen Colbert’s Emmy …

Posted on September 16, 2025 | 5 comments

The rash of stolen vehicles continues.

And residents continue to rashly leave their keys in unlocked cars.

Three vehicles were reported stolen between September 9 and yesterday. That makes 51 incidents since January 1.

Thefts occur in parking lots, and private driveways.

Westport Police say: “Under no circumstances should a vehicle ever be left unattended and running, unlocked with the keys inside it, or with valuables left in plain view.

“Unfortunately, nearly all stolen vehicle and vehicle burglary reports involve an unsecured car with keys immediately accessible.”

This is not the first time “06880” has conveyed this message from the WPD. It’s probably not even the 50th time.

We hope it’s the last. But we won’t hold our breath.

Catnip for car thieves.

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There will be many opportunities this fall to hear — and question — candidates for 1st selectperson.

Some will be general sessions. Others — like the one sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace — have a narrower focus.

The October 6 event (6:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church) centers on the environment. All 3 candidates — Don O’Day, Kevin Christie and David Rosenwaks — will participate.

Topics include clean energy initiatives; waste reduction strategies; climate resiliency planning, and Westport’s long-term sustainability goals.

Following the moderated discussion, attendees can continue the conversation informally at Emmy Squared. Click here to submit questions.

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Stephen Colbert’s show has been canceled, as of next year. But on Sunday night, he walked away with an Emmy.

It was not his alone. He shared it with his senior producer: Staples High School Class of 2000 graduate Paige Kendig.

Congratulations, Paige. Well earned!

And perhaps this gives you and your boss some fresh material to work with, through next May.

Paige Kendig stands in the top row, 2nd from left (next to the laughing blonde woman). (Hat tip and photo/Jeff Wieser)

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 StoryFest — The Westport Library’s annual literary festival — kicks off its 8th year by celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

It includes a book launch for “We Survived the Night,”a memoir by noted filmmaker Julian Brave NoiseCat.

He will be joined by Ramin Ganeshram, executive director of the Westport Museum for History & Culture, for a keynote conversation on October 13 (7 p.m.).

The event comes the day before the book’s official release.

Tickets are $30, and include a copy of the memoir. (The price is the same for 1 or 2 seats, and 1 book). A signing follows the talk.

StoryFest — the largest literary festival in Connecticut — draws scores of authors and hundreds of readers, writers and fans each year. With an interdisciplinary career that defies creative boundaries, NoiseCat’s work aligns with the mission: a celebration of storytelling in all forms, across all types of media.

NoiseCat’s journalism has appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post and The New Yorker. In 2021 he was named to Time Magazine’s “100 Next List of Emerging Leaders.”

His film “Sugarcane” was nominated for an Academy Award. It follows an investigation into abuse and missing children at the Indian residential school NoiseCat’s family was sent to in British Columbia.

StoryFest runs from October 13 to 20. It opens with NoiseCat’s book launch, and ends with a 10th anniversary celebration of Shonda Rhimes’memoir Year of Yes.

Click here for full details of StoryFest ’25.

Julian Brave NoiseCat

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The Board of Finance holds a special Zoom meeting today at 4:30 p.m., with one item on the agenda: the Hook’d on the Sound concession lease, at Compo Beach.

The public notice says the BOF anticipates discussing this in executive session.

This year, Hook’d rebranded itself as Bluestone.

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Speaking of the shoreline: Work has begun to renovate the tidal gates and pedestrian bridges at Sherwood Mill Pond, leading to Compo Cove.

Equipment is in place at the Compo Beach Soundview parking lot, in the Old Mill lot, and at the garages on the Mill Pond.

The job is expected to be completed next May.

Compared to the Post Road East project, that’s warp speed.

Equipment at the Old Mill garages. (Photo/Tammy Murray)

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Jazz at the Post’s September “Piano Madness” continues on Thursday (September 18), with David Hazeltine.

Called “the most recorded contemporary jazz pianist of our time,” he has 35 CDs as a leader, and hundreds more as a sideman.

He’s joined by trombonist Steve Davis, bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Jason Tiemann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Tickets are $20 for the early show ($15 for veterans and students); $10 for the late show. A buffet dinner, including vegetarian options, is $25. Click here for tickets.

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Yesterday’s “Westport … Naturally” photo showed trash — a discarded chair and road sign — in Deadman Brook.

Today’s image is a bit prettier to look at.

But it’s still gross.

Here is the bane of our autumnal existence: a spotted lanternfly.

Unfortunately, it’s one of tens of thousands.

Ugh!

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And finally … in honor of the Board of Finance’s upcoming discussion of the Hook’d contract:

(Another day, another Roundup packed with news you can use. It’s one of the many “06880” features we provide, several times a day. If you like even part of what we do, please support our work. Thanks!)

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Pic Of The Day #3071

Posted on September 15, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #3071

Staples High School golf season, at Longshore (Photo/Tom Kretsch)

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Roundup: HarvestFest, Merritt Parkway, StartUp Westport …

Posted on September 14, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: HarvestFest, Merritt Parkway, StartUp Westport …

Westport is awash in creative, fun fundraisers, for a wide array of wonderful, important local institutions.

But at the top of any list — for good times and great groups — is Wakeman Town Farm’s HarvestFest.

Last night’s annual shindig featured fantastic (and healthy) food, from local restaurants and caterers (and the farm itself), plus of course drinks. There was a country-style band (and dancing), along with auction items and a paddle raise.

But the coolest part of HarvestFest is that it brings so many different parts of the town together.

Including politicians.

Ywrt they’re not politicking. They serve drinks and bites.

And they do it not as political adversaries, but as neighbors and friends.

WTF?!

Taking time out from serving (standing, from left): Kevin Christie, Jimmy Izzo, David Rosenwaks, Bre Injeski, Don O’Day, Andrea Moore. Front: Sal Liccione. Christie, Rosenwaks and O’Day are running for 1st selctman. 2nd selctwoman Moore is up for re-election. Injeski is a Planning & Zoning Commission candidate. Izzo and Liccione seek another term on the RTM.

Democrat Abby Tolan and Republican Dorie Hordon share a moment. Both are Board of Education incumbents, running again. 

Liz Milwe (3rd from left), and the Wormser family and friends. Liz is a longtime Wakeman Town Farm advocate and volunteer, including service as co-chair. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Merritt Parkway Exits 41 and 42 are now just memories. (At least, in Westport.)

But they can live on in more than our minds, thanks to Jillian Elder.

She’s designed tees, hoodies, mugs, totes and more — all part of a “Vintage Merritt Parkway Collection — Exits 41& 42.”

The look pays homage to the road’s classic 1930s charm.

She says, “They’re perfect for longtime locals, proud Westporters, and anyone who loves the unique character of Connecticut’s most iconic road. The perfect gift for Westport natives, commuters, and vintage design lovers.

Click here to shop the “Vintage Merritt Parkway” online store.

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Calling all dirty cars!

And clean ones, whose drivers want to support the Staples boys soccer program too.

They’ll be washing cars today (Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1720 Post Road East (just before Stop & Shop, on the right). The suggested donation is $20.

Even the Westport Police entrust their cars to the Staples boys soccer team.

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HarvestFest ws not the only big event last night (story above).

Comedian Vic DiBitetto headlined, at the Westport Country Playhouse. There was a meet-and-greet with his many fans afterward.

 

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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Two types of innovators — a UFC and WWE mogul, and a bakery offering opportunities to people with disabilities — will share the stage, at StartUp Westport’s Innovator of the Year Awards.

The October 8 event (6 p.m., Westport Library) honors Mark Shapiro and Sweet P Bakery.

As president and COO of TKO Group Holdngs, and president and managing partner of WME Group, Shapiro has helped shape some of the most infuential names in sports and entertainment.

He’ll talk about bold calls that changed the trajectory of companies, industries — even culture itself — at the StarUp Westport event.

The highlight will be a conversation with CNBC’s Sara Eisen, called “Pivotal Moments: The Risks That Paid Off (and the Ones That Didn’t).”

Sweet P Bakery will share the spotlight, as recipient of StartUp Westport’s Community Impact Innovator Award.

Founders Andrea and Bill Pecoriello will be honored for “their dedication to social good, and sustainable business practices in the local community.” Sweet P’s mission includes job creation, teaching transferable skills, and building independence, confidence and a sense of belonging.

The Innovator of the Year event is free, but reservations are required. Click here for complimentary tickets, and more information.

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Looking ahead to the day before Halloween?

CLASP Homes — the non-profit that provides care, support and services to adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities — hosts a “wickedly fun concert” fundraiser on October 30 (6:30 p.m., FTC Stage One, Fairfield).

Band Central — CLASP’s favorite group — plays the best of the ’80s and ’90s. There’s a pre-party too, with light bites.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Band Central

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The Greens Farms Garden Club recently celebrated their 95th anniversary, at the beautiful Prospect Gardens.

An even bigger bash is promised, in 2030.

A beautiful arrangement, by and for the Greens Farms Garden Club.

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Staples High School’s Class of 1975 is getting ready for their 50th reunion. (Those who can believe they graduated half a century ago, that is.)

They’ll start Thursday, October 9; continue Friday evening at the Black Duck; enjoy a tour of the “new” Staples or a golf outing Saturday morning; celebrate at a dinner/dance that night at the Westport Woman’s Club, and end with brunch at a private home on Sunday, October 12.

They’ll also raise funds for Staples Tuition Grants — a very “classy” move.

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

The Staples Class of ’75 reunion committee — lookin’ good!

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Today’s stunning “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a bit of nature we don’t always get to see close-up. It may give you a new perspective on flowers … and bees.

(Photo/Nancy Vener)

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And finally … you may have guessed this was coming:

(Another Sunday, another work day here at “06880” central. We never stop bringing you news, photos and more. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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