Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …

Posted on June 1, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …

Less than 2 weeks remain to enter StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.

The event — for innovators and entrepreneurs, not baseball players or musicians — offers early-stage startups a chance to win a non-dilutive, 5-figure cash prize

It’s also a great way to plug into our town’s vibrant network of mentors, business leaders and passionate supporters.

Eligibility is simple: pre-institutional funding, a scalable business model, and a founder with Connecticut roots or strong state ties.

Applications are now open (click here for details). The deadline is 11 p.m. June 12.

In September, 4 finalists will be chosen to pitch “live shark tank-style” (though with more encouragement and, perhaps, less drama).

Winners will be announced November 20, at the Westport Library.

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Congratulations to Wes DeOreo!

The 2021 Staples High School graduate (and former lacrosse player) has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for 2025-26.

The program offers 400 positions in over 135 countries. Awardees teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects.

DeOreo — who just graduated from Bates College with a double major in politics and German — will teach in Germany.

At Bates he served as an AESOP leader, rugby club president, athletics student assistant, and fitness attendant.

He is no stranger to Germany. DeOreo has studied transatlantic history at the University of Freiburg; and taught English and coached club lacrosse in Freiburg.

He looks forward to joinng community sports teams, and reconnect with German friends and family. After his Fulbright, DeOreo will pursue a career in public service. (Hat tip: Linda Smith)

Wes DeOreo (Photo/Phyllis Graber Jensen for Bates College)

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The curtain rises Friday on the Westport Community Theatre’s new show, “The Gods of Comedy.”

The show — about a young classics professor who calls on Greek gods for help after a priceless manuscript goes missing — is full of “chaos, confusion, and divine mischief.”

The cast includes Jacqueline Carlsen, Henry Durham, Bob Filipowitch, Carin Freidag, Martha Hegley, Paula Lacy, Marcy Sansolo, David Victor and Virgil Watson.

“The Gods of Comedy” plays weekends through June 22, in the lower level of Town Hall. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is one Thursday show: June 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available here.

Marcy Sansolo and Bob Filipowich, on stage.

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No one wants to hear “DNR.”

Unless they playing.

Doctors know the initials stand for “Do Not Resuscitate.”

Music lovers know it stands for one of Fairfield County’s favorite rock bands.

And — surprise! — nearly all the musicians are physicians.

On Saturday, June 14 (7 p.m.), they take their show to the Westport Library. It’s a fundraiser, for the Library’s great community programming.

Get your tickets ($40) here. There is also a cash bar.

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Speaking of Library music: Dan Bikel filled the bill last night.

By day a computer scientist and AI leader at Meta, he’s also a very talented singer, songwriter and composer. (With great genes: He’s the son of Theodore Bikel, the folk singer who played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” over 2,000 times._

Dan entertained the Trefz Forum crowd with  original songs on piano and guitar. He also performed the second movement of his Piano Concerto No. 1, showing his classical side.

Dan Bikel (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Jim Naughton has shared his enormous acting talent, and the celebrity that comes with it, to advocate — and raise millions of dollars — for many excellent causes.

He has been active in areas ranging from animal welfare to the death with dignity movement. in Fairfield County and beyond.

He has been a special friend of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, including hosting every ACE Awards ceremony.

This year, the tables are turned. The longtime Weston resident (and Tony Award winner) will be honored with the Citizen Impact Award, for his contributions to arts and culture here.

The event is June 17 (5:30 p.m., Norwalk Art Space, 455 West Avenue). Tickets and more information are available here.

Jim Naughton, hosting another event — the Staples High School Pops Concert. He took a turn on the triangle too. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the Westport Pops Concert: It’s this Friday (June 6, 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).

If you’ve been before, you know it’s a kick-off-the-summer highlight, featuring a couple of hundred talented teenage musician, under the stars. Free tickets are available here.

But note: If you’ve been before, you may have had dinner from food trucks in the Library parking lot.

There are no food trucks this year. So eat before you go — or better yet, bring a picnic. The lawn opens at 6 p.m.

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Speaking of theater: Sure, the Westport Country Playhouse’s gala — celebrating 95 years of history and entertainment — is more than 4 months away.

But save the date: October 4.

And get ready to celebrate the evening’s honoree: Anne Keefe.

A cornerstone of the WCP since 1973, she has been involved in nearly every facet of the famed stage.

Key achievements include a pivotal role in the 1999 campaign to renovate and preserve the Playhouse, and her leadership as associate artistic director and co-artistic director (alongside Joanne Woodward).

For over 35 years. she’s supported the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Gala. She has been honored with an award for lifetime achievement in stage management, selection to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame’s 10 Women of Distinction, the Westport Arts Award for Theatre, and the Connecticut Critics Circle’s Tom Killan Award.

Keefe has taught at the Yale School of Drama, and served on the boards of the Playhouse and Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County.

Tickets and more information will be available soon.

Anne Keefe

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Sure, the bar is high for entitled parking.

But this shot — from yesterday’s dance recital at Bedford Middle School — clears that bar.

Note the arrogance of simply parking in the middle of the lot, forcing drivers in 2 directions to creep around.

Stopping right across the white line is a bonus.

The coup de grâce, of course, is that the driver is facing the wrong way. Impressive!

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo also includes a caution.

The American oystercatchers are back nesting at Compo’s South Beach, near the cannons.

As always, the fragile birds hope we humans don’t get too close.

The Audubon Alliance has laid out a protected nesting area. Please honor it!

American oystercatchers, seen with a zoom lens (Hat tip and photo/Jeffrey Mayer)

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And finally … happy June 1!

(The days keep getting longer. Which means you have even more daylight to support “06880.” Please click here to make a contribution to this hyper local blog. Thank you!

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Compo Skate Park: Community Space Needs Repair

Posted on June 1, 2025 | 5 comments

“06880” intern Katherine Phelps writes:

Tucked near the basketball courts at Compo Beach sits a park that for years has served as a haven for Westport’s skaters.

But today, cracks are showing — literally and figuratively.

Wooden ramps are rotting. Nails come loose. And while the energy of the local skate community remains strong, the park itself struggles to keep up.

Skate park ramp …

Seamus Brannigan, a Staples High School junior, has  enjoyed skating for years. Yet he recognizes the park’s issues.

“It’s gotten to a point where it is barely skateable,” he says. “The wooden ramps are falling apart, and the whole park needs to be replaced.”

For Brannigan and many others, skating is more than a sport. He also feels part of a strong group.

That sense of camaraderie might now be in danger.

“I love skating because it’s a place and a community where I can meet people with interests like mine. It’s a place where all people are welcome,” Brannigan says.

His solution: “a full concrete park like the one in Norwalk. It would last for decades.”

… and a wider view. (Photos/Katherine Phelps)

The idea of rebuilding the Compo skate park is not new. There’s already some funding in the Parks & Recreation Department budget for repairs. It’s about $10,000 annually, which does not stretch far.

Jesse Bauks, an English teacher at Staples and longtime advisor to the school’s Skate Club, has seen the park’s decline first hand. He too believes it’s time for a change.

“The skate park is falling apart — rotten wood, loose screws and nails — really just due to age and exposure to the elements,” Bauks says.

“There is a group of pickleball folks looking to expand their space, and the current location of the skate park makes for a good place for that to happen. So the future of this space as a skate park seems to be up in the air.”

Last year, Parks & Rec removed and rebuilt one of the large ramps with help from parks supervisor Mike West, thanks in part to $1,200 from student-led fundraisers.

However, Bauks says a more significant investment is necessary.

“To really rebuild the park — like they did in Norwalk — could cost anywhere from $250,000 to $1 million, depending on whether it’s done in wood or poured concrete,” he explains.

The Compo Beach skate park, in 2021. 

Parks & Rec director Erik Barbieri, who started in March, is aware of the skate park’s condition. He is open to conversations about its future.

While still settling into his role, Barbieri has already earned a reputation for listening, and understanding the importance of youth spaces.

While nothing definitive is yet planned, skaters are taking initiative by organizing, raising awareness, and pushing for change.

“A concrete park could serve Westport’s youth for decades,” Brannigan says.

“This is more than just a park — it’s our community.”

(“06880” covers issues of concern to Westporters of all ages. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Our skaters and our staffers thank you!)

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Roundup: Trump’s 100 Days, Staples & GFA’s Class Of ’25, Ruth Cavayero’s 32 Years …

Posted on May 31, 2025 | 5 comments

Tomorrow’s Westport Library panel on how the media covered the first 100 days of the Trump administration is sold out.

But you can still see it. Just click here for the livestream. 

The Sunday 2 p.m. event — co-sponsored by the Y’s Men and Library — features Congressman Jim Himes, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, national news anchor and blogger Alisyn Camerota, local news anchor and feature reporter Rebecca Surran, and Fairfield University assistant professor of politics Aaron Weinstein. John Brandt will moderate.

Clockwise, from upper left: Jim Marpe, Jim Himes, Alisyn Camerota, Aaron Weinstein, Rebecca Surran.

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In just a few months since opening, The Clubhouse has become Westport’s go-to party event space.

On Wednesday, Staples High School soon-to-be graduates will take over the rooftop — usually reserved for 21 and older — for the first-ever send-off party there (or anywhere else in town).

The Clubhouse’s senior interns have planned the event (June 4, 7 to 9 p.m.). It includes light bites, a Staples-inspired (non-alcoholic) drink, music, cornhole and more.

Soon-to-be graduates are invited to wear their college logo gear. Tickets ($25) are available here. For financial assistance, email connect@theclubhousewestport.com.

Clubhouse interns and party planners (from left) Gavin Gravelle, Stella St. Andre and Jasmine Schiffman check out the space.

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Speaking of seniors: On Thursday, Staples honored its high honors graduates.

The 20 students in the top 4% of the Class of 2025 were guests at a special dinner in the auditorium lobby. Each nominated one particularly influential teacher or staff member (of many), who spoke on their behalf.

Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, Will Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal!

Among the High Honors dinner attendees (from left): Will Boberski, Mack Haymond, Perrin Root, Jackson Tracey, Sam Rossoni, Aidan Stubbs, Andrew Rebello, Abe Lobsenz.

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Speaking of Staples: The Board of Education hearing for Chris O’Dell — the Staples boys soccer freshman coach who is appealing the non-renewal of his contract — has been postponed.

Originally set for Monday (June 2), a new date has not yet been set. A transcript from the May 12 hearing, of head coach Russell Oost-Lievense’s appeal — necessary for O’Dell’s case — is not yet available.

Board of Education member Robert Harrington told “06880” that he is “concerned this is slipping into the summer.”

He also requested that 2 items be added to the June 5 BOE agenda. One is a discussion item to re-open the hearing on Oost-Lievense’s non-renewal.

“We were not peritted to hear from all the potential witnesses. Eight were opposed by the school administration. We were also not allowed to see all the emails that are potentially relevant to the case,” Harrington says.

The BOE member also asks the board to waive attorney privilege on a letter sent to him by administration lawyer Thomas Mooney, which he calls “a clear warning about my recent actions and comments.”

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Congratulations to the 98 graduates in the Greens Farms Academy Class of 2025!

They were honored yesterday, in a moving ceremony.

The valedictorian was Westport resident Serra Nalbantoglu. The keynote speaker was Tony- and Grammy Award-winning actress/singer — and GFA paent – Renée Elise Goldsberry.

Greens Farms Academy head of school Bob Whelan processes toward the ceremony, with Renée Elise Goldsberry.

Valedictorian Serra Nalbantoglu.

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Ruth Cavayero got a great — and well-deserved — sendoff yesterday.

The retiring Town Hall employee was honored for 32+ years of service by town clerk Jeff Dunkerton, director of human resources Candice Holley, and current and past staff, elected officials, and family members.

She has served under 6 first selectpersons, most recently as deputy town clerk. In 2022 she was recognized for going “Above & Beyond” for her contributions to the Connecticut Town Clerks Association’s website committee, and redesigning the Westport town clerk’s website.

Dunkerton said, “the Westport town clerk’s office has long been a state leader in embracing new technology, and Ruth has played a major role in that legacy.

“She has been our go-to liaison between vendors and staff, always stepping up when technical issues arise.

“Always willing to learn new software to better serve the residents of Westport. Ruth has seen the office evolve from typewriters to computers, from manual ink stamps to digital stamps. What I value most is her constant drive to improve our daily work through smart, practical use of technology.

“Ruth’s career has not just been long — it’s been meaningful. Her legacy is woven into every land record book in our vault for the last 32 years.”

Ruth Cavayero (center), with Jeff Dunkerton and Candice Holley. (Hat tip and photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Oh, doctor!

The Westport Library Medical Series returns to the Westport Library on Tuesday (June 3, 7 p.m.). Oncologist Dr. Lisa Phuong and surgeon Dr. Jeanne Capasse will discuss recent progress in the diagnostics and therapeutics of breast cancer, and answer audience questions.

Longtime Westport internist Dr. Robert Altbaum moderates the session. The series is presented by Andrew Wilk.

Dr. Jeanne Capasse (top) and Dr. Lisa Phuong bottom).

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June brings 2 very intriguing Earthplace events.

The BioBlitz (June 8, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is a community effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible.

You do not need to be an expert to volunteer. Specialists will lead guided walks through different habitats throughout the day.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, thanks to the Greens Farms Garden Club. Registration and more details are available here.

The 3rd annual Moth Ball, meanwhile, promises more than just a cute name.

The welcome to summer event (June 21, 8 to 11 p.m.) celebrates nature at night. Attendees will detect bat calls, prowl for owls, and use lightsheeting to observe moths.

New this year: The film “Nocturnes” in the museum theater.

Tickets ($10 members, $12 non-members0 and more information is available here.

How many can you identify?

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Every year, AWARE’s annual fundraiser brings together women who do wonderful work, their friends, and several great organizations.

The acronym stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education. Each year, members choose one worthy local nonprofit. They raise money — but do much more too.

All year long, they offer hands-on involvement. They dive deep into the organization’s work, get their hands dirty with volunteer work, and form deep friendships with leaders and participants.

This year’s beneficiary is Bridgeport’s Center for Family Justice. They do crucial work helping people who have experienced physical and mental abuse.

AWARE’s partnership this year included budgeting, yoga, nutrition and makeovers workshops for their clients, and events for their kids too.

It culminated with Thursday night’s “Justice in Bloom” fundraiser. In attendance were CFJ representatives, and those from other groups AWARE has partnered with in the past, like Female Soldiers, Forgotten Heroes and Her Time.

Members of AWARE, and representatives of groups they’ve helped, last night. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Pride’s annual LGBTQ celebration is always a rainbow affair.

This year, it’s more colorful than ever.

A chalk drawing competition on June 22 — before and during the Jesup Green event — will add to the fun.

Registration and more information is available here. There’s a $10 entry fee — and a cash prize.

Show up with your ideas. Chalk will be provided.

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Just in time for summer: The new Hillspoint Road sidewalk, between Compo Beach and Old Mill.

Mary Sikorski snapped this shot, when the light was just right:

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

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You might have stopped (by) yesterday afternoon.

But you didn’t shop.

Stop & Shop suffered a power outage. All the refrigerators were down, and lights were off in half the store.

This was the scene, keeping shoppers away from the (hopefully still) frozen foods section.

(Photo/Lauren Schiller)

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On June 21, the yellow brick road leads to the Westport Country Playhouse.

“The Wizard of Oz” (1 and 4 p.m.) is recommended for ages 2-7. Tickets ($30) and more information are available here.

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A reminder: No saving Compo’s South Beach picnic tables!

Unless of course you’re one of the stars of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

These guys can do whatever they want.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … Loretta Swit died yesterday in Manhattan. She was 87.

The actress was best known — and won 2 Emmys — as Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on “M*A*S*H,” which ran from 1972 to 1983.

I met her 2 years ago, at the unveiling of a Literary Landmark plaque honoring Westport Country Playhouse founder Lawrence Langner. I was surprised that she was surprised I recognized her name, but pleased that I thanked her for the many years I enjoyed that remarkable show. A full obituary is available here.

(If you’re able to watch today’s Library livestream because of “06880” — or we ever helped you out in any other way — please considering clicking her to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Politics, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Staples Honors, Staples Scholarships, Staples Players …

Posted on May 30, 2025 | 2 comments

Congratulations to Alexis Krenzer!

The Staples High School senior received the school’s highest honor — the Staples Key — at Wednesday’s awards ceremony.

Alexis — a Learning Center and middle school tutor; LinkCrew member for freshmen; member of the National, Science, Math and Chinese Honor Socieites; organizer of the Staples Tuition Grants Fun Run; ski team captain and soccer player — also took first place in the state STEM fair for her cancer research.

Alexis will study chemistry and math at Northwestern University.

The  other 2 finalists for the Staples Key were Abe Lobsenz and Sam Rossoni.

Over 90 awards were given out. Among the other big ones:

Lily Rimm won the James Bacharach Award Service to the Community Award. It’s been presented for over 35 years by the  Westport Youth Commission, in honoro of the founder and president of the Youth Adult Council, and a founder of what is now Homes with Hope.

Principal’s Awards for Outstanding Service went to William Boberski, Nina Bowens, Luca Caniato, Mia Ferrigno, Derek Hafiz, Christina Kavanah, Kensley Laguerre, Annam Olasawere, Molly Oliver, Andrew Rebello, Madeleine Saounatsos, Zelie Saounatsos, Danielle Schwartz and Jackson Tracey.

Staples Awards for Character were given to Kody Goldman and Kylie Kirkham (Class of 2025), Taylor Serotta and Eva Slossberg (Class of ’26), Nicolas Reyna and Vanii Punia (Class of ’27), and Kai Massicott and Azita Vazhayil (Class of ’28).

Alexis Krenzer

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More awards!

On Thursday, the Westport Police Benevolent Association Scholarship Foundation handed grants of $2,500 each to 17 students.

The Scholarship Foundation was founded and principally funded by Dr. Joan Poster and her late husband, Dennis Poster.

From left: Joseph Sabin, Reese Aliberti, Jaden Aliberti, Meghan Velky, Sgt. Sharon Russo, Sara Sabin, Samantha Sabin, Gabrielle Hayes, Lily Rimm. Not pictured: Zachary Benson, Grace Biagiotti, Olivia Biagiotti, Jacqueline Kelley, April Nowinski, Edward Nowinski, Brandon Smith, Connor Woods, Ava Wooldridge. (Photo: Harry Rimm)

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The dream of Staples Players actors is to be on Broadway.

Jamie Mann is.

Just a few days after graduating from the University of Michigan, the 2021 Staples High School alum has a featured role — and some very funny moments — in the new hit “Stranger Things.”

The other day, 26 current Players (and aspiring Great White Way stars) headed to New York. Jamie, they and directors David Roth and Kerry Long had dinner before the show.

After the curtain, Jamie posed for photos and autographs.

Jamie Mann (front row, 2nd from left) with Staples Players. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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It’s almost Yankee Doodle Fair time!

The dedades-old tradition returns next weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.). The site is (of course) the Westport Woman’s Club (44 Imperial Avenue)

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food trucks and baked goods, raffles — you name it. Sand art is back too.

The “Take a Chance” tent makes a comeback, with prizes donated by local merchants and restaurants. Winners do not have to be present at the drawings.

A pay-one-price, unlimited ride wristband option is available.

Proceeds help benefit a variety of local charities, provide scholarships to Staples students, and support the Woman’s Club’s 50-year-old food closet.

This year, the organization awarded $124,200 in grants and scholarships.

Yankee Doodle comes to town!

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“Egrets” — the new 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Redding artist Babette Bloch — will be dedicated tomorrow (May 31, 4 p.m., Canal Park, Canal Street at Kings Highway North).

It’s the latest in a series of local outdoor art, courtesy of the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and our Parks & Recreation Department.

Westport poet laureate Donna Disch will speak, and refreshments will be served.

A Parks & Rec employee lays grass, so “Egrets” is in its element.

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Former Westporter Rev. Dr. Peter Haile died May 16. He was 100.

He moved into The Saugatuck on Bridge Street when he was 80 to be closer to his daughter, Rebecca Swanson. He created, wrote and published a very popular newsletter for residents, “The Saugatalk.”

He was born at a school run by the London Missionary Society for the education of Black South Africans, where his father was principal for 40 years. The school, which refused to compromise its mission, was closed by the apartheid government in 1962. It reopened in 1995.

At 10, Peter was sent to live with an aunt in London, until the Blitz forced him, and many other children, to evacuate. At his new school he excelled in academics and competed in rugby, field hockey and cross country.

He spent 3 years in the Royal Navy. Discharged in South Africa, he was reunited with his parents for the first time in 12 years.

Peter earned his teaching certificate at Oxford, where he ran cross country with Roger Bannister. On a mission year in the US he met and married Jane Hollingsworth. They moved to Boston, where Peter ministered to college students.

In 1961 he began a 29-year stint at the Stony Brook School on Long Island, as an English teacher, chaplain and assistant headmaster. After retiring, he spent 10 years as assistant pastor at the Three Village Church in Setauket, New York.

Peter was was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his son John (Susan), daughter Rebecca Swanson (David); grandchildren CMDR David Haile (Michelle), Andrew Haile (René), Sarah Haile, Dr. David Swanson III (Katharine), and Peter Swanson (Marissa);,and great-grandchildren Nora, James, Christopher, Brandon, Alethea and Naomi.

A memorial service is set for July 3, at the Stony Brook School. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Stony Brook School, Mozaic Senior Life or Tiger Kloof Educational Institution.

Rev. Dr. Peter Haile

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Let’s end this week with a bow-wow “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Frankie enjoys the grass near Compo Beach. He wishes he and his friends are allowed on the sand all year long — not just off-season.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … Rick Derringer, who hit Number 1 as a 17-year-old guitarist with “Hang On Sloopy,” had a smash several years later as a solo artist with “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” then became a producer with artists ranging from Peter Frampton, Barbra Streisand and Kiss to Bette Midler, Cyndi Lauper and Weird Al Yankovic — died Monday in Florida. He was 77.

A complete obituary is available here.

(Sloopy lives in a very bad part of town. But you’re in Westport — or you’ve got some connection to it. If you enjoy this “06880” community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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“06880”/Ruden Report Extra: Persevering Through Tragedy, Staples Style

Posted on May 29, 2025 | 2 comments

The Ruden Report is the area’s go-to source for boys and girls FCIAC (Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference) sports.

Dave Ruden — a longtime sports journalist (and Staples grad) — and his staff cover the entire 15-high school league with news, photos and features.

There’s a low-cost yearly subscription (click here). But yesterday’s story by Jeff Jacobs was so good, I asked Dave to could share it with “06880” readers.

He agreed. Thanks, Dave and Jeff, for this inspiring story of the power of high school sports. And the importance of great teammates and coaches.

When Jack McFarland gathered his Staples players together after school in early April, he knew it would be a difficult meeting.

Over decades as a baseball and football coach, McFarland had dealt with the passing of grandparents and offseason family deaths, but nothing like this, not at the start of a season.

“It kind of came out of nowhere,” he said, “so it was really hard.”

A good high school coach is more than X’s and O’s and his win-loss record. He is a disciplinarian, a willing ear, a mentor and, for many, a father figure.

McFarland is a great coach.

“You have 25 kids and it’s just like having your own kids,” McFarland said. “You try to get them all on the same page and as happy as they can be. It doesn’t always work out that way. There’s an injury. Somebody is struggling in school. We’re always trying to keep the flock as close as we can and make sure everyone is getting what they need.”

Since 2005, the Wreckers have won four FCIAC titles, two state titles and advanced to the state championship game five times. They have become a perennial baseball power.

But now one of the flock, junior Jules Cicero, was hurting.

Jules Cicero

McFarland had received word that the days had grown short for Jules’ mom, Stacey Campbell. He decided not to wait. Mason Tobias, Cicero’s best friend, knew what was coming in the meeting. His teammates did not.

“We immediately put it out there for the kids,” McFarland said. “One of our guys is in some pain. We need to rally around him. We’ll be there for him …”

McFarland paused for a second.

“It was hard,” he said. “It was pretty heavy. The kids were great. I think it was the best way to handle it at that time. We wanted to address it, so we could give Jules support as a team. It would have been such a shock if (Stacey’s death) was the first thing they heard.”

Cicero agreed.

“It would have been a tougher time for me if they didn’t know,” he said.

When the meeting ended, everyone embraced Cicero.

“A few guys definitely had tears,” Tobias said. “It’s always awful. We care about Jules so much. We just wanted to give him a hug and tell him we’d be there for him.”

“My teammates and coaches mean the world to me,” Cicero said. “After the meeting I got texts basically from all of them, telling me whatever I needed they’d be there.”

Staples had played only two games when Stacey Campbell died on April 13.

Cicero, who McFarland calls one of the best leadoff hitters in the state, didn’t miss a game. He didn’t miss an at-bat.

“My teammates and coaches were one of the main sources to get me through that time,” Cicero said. “I felt I had to be there for them on the field. Coach McFarland has this saying. He said it at the beginning of the year even before he even knew anything was going on with me: When you’re between the lines, you can leave everything behind. You can just focus on the game. I keep reminding myself of that. If maybe I start to spiral a little bit, just focus on the next play as opposed to something else.”

Jules Cicero in the field …

There is a playbook for nearly everything in sports these days. There is no playbook for tragedy.

McFarland made sure he was on board with the school and counselors. He’d check in with a concerned principal, Stafford Thomas. There would be detailed conversations with Jules’ dad, Frank, on what was best.

“If you need to miss a practice, a game … all those decisions were made that way,” McFarland said. “We left it up to Jules.”

He didn’t miss anything.

“He has been unbelievable,” McFarland said. “He leads off the game, double, single. He’s one of the best leadoff hitters I’ve had here, and I’ve had Jack Hennessy and Chad Knight. He sets the tone.”

Cicero has hovered around .370-.380 at the plate this spring.

… and at bat. (All photos/David G. Whitham)

His teammates, in the meantime, were true to their word. There have been video game nights. They’d take him out to eat. They’d check in over the phone or in school to make sure Cicero was OK.

“It comes down to being there for him,” Tobias said. “For me, as his best friend, I tried to be with him as much as possible, hang out, take his mind off things. When something as tragic as that happens, being alone might sound the right thing to do, but that’s when you’re thinking about everything.”

Miss games?

“Oh, no, that would never happen,” Tobias said. “The whole team was there for him. He wanted to be there for us, playing as hard as he could. That’s what makes this sport so great.”

Cicero loves to lead off. He loves to serve as an offensive catalyst.

“The most important part of getting something going on offense is building the momentum,” Cicero said. “It’s really fun for me to have that opportunity to do that for the rest of the lineup.”

“Jules has a little edge to him,” McFarland said. “He’s a tough kid. He reminds me of the kids I grew up with. An old school type of kid. He looks after his teammates. He’s a great kid.”

The Wreckers advanced to the state Class LL final the past two years before falling to Fairfield Warde and Amity in the championship. After opening the season ranked No. 1 in the GameTimeCT Top 10 poll, they’ve gone 13-8.

“We definitely have a chip on our shoulder,” Cicero said. “We made it to Palmer the last couple of years and haven’t come through. That’s the big goal. It’s been pretty up and down this year. We ended the season well, but we had a skid where we lost a couple to Warde and one to Trumbull.”

On Saturday the Wreckers were shut out by St. Joseph in the FCIAC quarterfinals.

It would be easy to say baseball means nothing at a time like this. It also would be untrue. The game itself is a needed distraction. There also is a certain power in sport. There is a collective strength and love within a team.

For Jules Cicero, this is that power. This is the strength. This is the love.

“My mom cared a lot,” Cicero said. “She always wanted what was best. She was always there for the team. If any of my friends needed anything, she was there as well. She just wanted to help whoever needed it.”

“She always loved having us over,” Tobias said. “Jules, me and our friends. Every time we saw her, she was happy. She’d try to make us food. We always had fun at Jules’ house.”

Tobias thought for a minute when asked how Cicero was holding up.

“He has only gotten better as time has gone on,” Tobias said. “The first few days, the first few weeks were definitely rough. It’s still hard. Something like that happens, you never get over it. Jules keeps getting better, though, keeps progressing. And we’re there for him.”

Stacey Campbell can rest easy, well-pleased the Staples baseball team has helped care for her boy.

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Roundup: Sherwood Island, Aspetuck Land Trust, Sourcery …

Posted on May 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Friends of Sherwood Island plan a great “Trails Day Weekend” for early June.

And you don’t have to be a member to join the fun.

Kayak Paddle: Survey Terrapins and Birds in the Marsh (June 7, 8:30 a.m., end of East Beach parking lot). Count diamondback terrapins (with a guide), and document birds using iNaturalist.

Bring your own kayak, canoe or other paddlecraft, life vest and whistle/horn (required by state boating regulations), and kayak cart if you have one. Optional: waterproof binoculars for spotting birds, and/or a waterproof camera. Free; registration requested.

Butterfly Walk (June 7, 12 noon, Nature Center). Join Michele Sorensen to explore the gardens and natural areas in search of caterpillars, skippers, moths and butterflies.

Bring binoculars and a camera or smartphone, to learn to report your findings on iNaturalist. Children are welcome. Free; registration requested.

A Walk Through Historical & Archaeological Time (June 8, 1 p.m., Nature Center).

A family-friendly, educational walk on the Sherwood Island History Trail, led by archaeologists. Start at the Ice Age, when Long Island Sound was formed. Examine traces of past inhabitants of Sherwood Island, from Native Americans in 1000 BC to onion farmers of the 1940s. Artifacts, maps, old photos and recent recoveries bring the island’s past inhabitants to life. Free; registration requested.

Beach to Beach Walk (June 8, 3 p.m., Nature Center). Discover habitats, inhabitants and special features, including the 9/11 Memorial, model airport, wetlands and pine forest. Free; registration requested.

Shewood Island State Park: 232 acres of prime real estate, right here in Westport.

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More environmental news: Aspetuck Land Trust and Wild Ones present a “Lunch & Learn” webinar, “Creating Beautifully Designed Food Forests for Migrating Birds” (May 30, noon to 1 p.m.).

Eva Monheim discusses edible forest gardens — intentionally created, self-sustaining ecosystems that provide food and other resources for humans and wildlife — and proper plant selection.

Aspetuck Land Trust and Wild Ones members can register for free; $10 for non-members.


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Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer.

And — right on cue — today marked the first unfriendly and unethical “saving” of a Compo Beach picnic table.

At 8 a.m.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

A reminder — more gentle than it deserves: Those notices on the top of each table that “Picnic Tables May Not Be Reserved” are not there for decorative purposes only.

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Despite losing 3-0 to St. Joseph in the FCIAC tournament quarterfinals this weekend, the Staples baseball team are champions.

They showed up en masse to support, and buddy with, the Westport Challenger baseball team.

It was a great event for all. Now it’s on to the state tournament. Go Wreckers!

Staples baseball coach Jack McFarland (2nd from left), his team and the Challenger athletes.

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Last week’s Westport Library spring book sale was one of its biggest indoor sales ever.

But it wouldn’t have been possible without all the volunteers, book donors and patrons who participated.

Westport Book Sale Ventures says is grateful “for the scores of dedicated volunteers who commit their time, energy and enthusiasm to processing the tens of thousands of books and other media our community generously donates each year, and to the scores more volunteers who help set up and operate our 4-day sales.”

The organizers add a shoutout to volunteers from M&T Bank, Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary, the Y’s Men, Staples High School’s SLOBs and SLOGs, and the National Charity League.

Proceeds from the book sales support the non-profit’s dual missions: to provide employment and volunteer opportunities for adults with disabilities, while raising funds for the Westport Library.

Since opening the Westport Book Shop on Road, Westport Book Sale Ventures has provided over 10,500 hours of employment and job training for more than a dozen adults with differing abilities, at the store and in their eBay online sales operation. They’ve contributed over $200,000 to the Westport Library too.


Library Book Sale collage.

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Sourcery — a VC deal and startup trend newsletter and podcast — is a must-read-and-listen in the industry.

Founder Molly O’Shea is a 2014 Staples High School graduate. She’s always on the lookout for interesting interviews.

No suprise: From time to time, they’re fellow alums.

The most recent is Whop CTO Jack Sharkey. The 2018 SHS grad’s platform connects buyers and sellers in the digital economy, focusing on influencers and content creators.

With a million customers and 3,000 sellers, Whop has facilitated $100 million in transactions.

Molly and Jack gave nice shoutouts at the start and end to Westport, and their alma mater. You can click the Sourcery link here, or click on the video below.

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Saturday’s Roundup noted the compelling presentation by Dmitry Kamensky on Friday. The Ukrainian law professor met a small group at Larry and Mary-Lou Weisman’s house, where he described the dire situation in his war-torn nation.

But Professor Kamensky also talked about the strength and will of his countrymen.

And he must have been bolstered by the show of support from the Westporters, whom he met through his work on constitutional law with Larry Weisman and Ken Bernhard.

Not to mention, the beautiful bouquet — in Ukrainian colors — arranged by Mary-Lou Weisman.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights the first sighting of baby swans on Lee’s Pond this year.

Kevin Gasvoda was there, as Mom and Dad took their 7 new ones out for a swim.

(Photo/Kevin Gasvoda)

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And finally … for all who gave their lives, so that we could be here today: We honor and salute you.

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Roundup: Ben Casparius, Dmitry Kamensky, Tom Lowrie …

Posted on May 25, 2025 | 7 comments

The last time we checked in with Ben Casparius, he had just earned himself a World Series ring.

It was a storybook finish for the 2017 Staples High School graduate. In just 2 months, he moved from the minor leagues to an important role in the Los Angeles’ drive to the championship.

What’s next for the pitcher? Perhaps League Rookie of the Year.

At least, that’s what the (somewhat biased) TrueBlueLA.com website thinks.

They say: “The season is only about 1/3 complete, so there’s plenty of time remaining. But in terms of NL Rookie of the Year, Ben Casparius has pitched himself firmly into the discussion.”

The reliever threw 3 scoreless innings Friday against the New York Mets, striking out 6 of the 10 batters he faced.

Three days earlier he got the final out of the 8th inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks, protecting a 1-run edge with the bases loaded.

TrueBlueLA notes: “Stephen Nelson on the Dodgers radio broadcast said something to the effect of any National League Rookie of the Year poll that doesn’t include Casparius is invalid. He’s right.”

Casparius has a 2.94 ERA, with 38 strikeouts and only 6 walks.

Read the full TrueBlueLA.com story here. (Hat tip: Michael Kodama)

Ben Casparius

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Westport and Ukraine have a strong relationship.

Thanks to our sister city of Lyman — a town now just 7 miles from the Russian front — residents and town officials have felt connected to the entire war-torn nation.

Ken Bernhard and Larry Weisman’s relationship goes back even further.

Nearly a decade ago, Bernhard — an attorney, former state representative, and civic volunteer for many causes — taught a class in Ukraine on US constitutional law.

Over the years, he and fellow Westport attorney Lawrence Weisman continued to work with Professor Dmitry Kamensky via Zoom. They spoke to his Ukrainian law students about the American legal system, and the current state of affairs here.

Professor Kamensky has been in the US since April. He’s lectured at several universities, and visited the US Military Academy at West Point.

On Friday, he met a small group of Westporters at Weisman’s home.

Professor Kamensky spoke candidly about the war’s effects on his country, his university and students, and his own wife and young children. It was a first-hand look at a life that includes nightly attacks, daily uncertain, and people who — despite all the devastation — strive to lead as normal lives as they can.

Afteward, he wrote to those met, “I am incredibly grateful for all the support, empathy and kindness that you share with the people of Ukraine. Even more so, with the people in Lyman and other eastern Ukrainian towns, which now face the war carnage daily.

“Thank you all for being with us on this incredibly  hard path to freedom and European future. Your dedication, your involvement, your encouragement have no borders. I felt it with my heart today and this is something I will share with my people upon my return home soon.”

A reminder about Westport’s sister city of Lyman: Our connection began through Ukraine Aid International, the boots-on-the-ground non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer.

They’re supporting 2 camps this summer in the Carpathian Mountains. It’s a chance for Lyman’s displaced children to reconnect with their former schoolmates.

The 10-day July session for 40 youngsters is fully funded. UAI is raising $10,000 for the August camp.All donations are welcome here. (Under “Designation,” select “Westport” from the dropdown menu.)

Let’s do, this Westport!

Professor Dmitry Kamensky (right), with Westporers on Friday.

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Plenty of Westporters are attending college reunions this month.

But Tom Lowrie may be the only one going to his 75th.

The longtime Westporter — who stepped down earlier this month as our town’s pickleball ambassador — attended that landmark event yesterday, at Princeton University.

Not only that: With his daughter Anne, he took part in the school’s “P-rade.”

Tom was joined by 5 others, from the Princeton Class of 1950.

They hope to see each other again, at the 80th reunion.

Tom Lowrie, enjoying his 75th reunion.

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Sixty protesters lined the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge yesterday, in another Saturday protest against President Trump and his administration.

Ages ranged from 26 to 92. One Tesla driver gave the crowd the finger, but other cars honked in support.

Canine protestor on the Ruth Steinkruas Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Pam Docters)

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A couple of miles away, the first beach weekend was a bit chilly. Early in the morning — before families arrived for the Parks & Recreation Department “Kickoff to Summer” and dedication of the new Compo Beach playground — a lone swimmer got ready to take the plunge.

(Photo/Missy Greenberg)

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“Pig Party” —  Jo Ann Miller’s new book — has just been published.

Carl Addison Swanson provides background: “In 1962, the men of the University of Texas voted famed singer-student Janis Joplin as the ‘ugliest man on campus.’ While the university and Janis were not pleased, the news of the pig party spread fast. Soon, such parties were being held at schools across the country.

“It took the ERA movement to eradicate the ugly practice.  This book is a work of fiction.” Click here for the Amazon link.

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Lifelonng Westport resident Malcolm Watson, Jr. died unexpectedly on Sunday. He was 76.

He graduated from Staples High School in 1967, and worked for Nash Engineering in South Norwalk. He served in the Navy in Vietnam during the war, and marched every Memorial Day in the Westport parade.

He owned Nielsen’s Wood Arts, a furniture refinishing business where he performed meticulous antique furniture restoration.

An avid swimmer and sailor, he was a member of the “High Tide Club,” swimming at Burying Hill Beach nearly year round.

He was a member of the Norwalk River Rowing Club, and served as a mentor for generations of younger rowers. He competed as a rower and coxswain all over the East Coast, including the famed Head of the Charles race in Boston.

He is survived by wife Roseann, daughter Amanda (Nathan), son Malcolm III, grandchildren Conrad and Rosie, brother Elmer Sniffen (Patricia), sister Nancy Sniffen, and sister-in-law Kathleen Carusone

A memorial service will be held on June 11, (11 a.m., Burying Hill Beach). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to an organization of your choice.

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Westport continues to look gorgeous this spring — even near the transfer station.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” view shows the colorful scene between the Public Works headquarters parking lot and the Sherwood Island Connector.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of Tom Lowrie’s 75th reunion (story above):

(If Ben Casparius becomes Rookie of the Year, you heard it first here. You hear a LOT of things here first, right? If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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[OPINION] Soccer Coach Situation Could Have Been Solved. More Trouble May Lie Ahead.

Posted on May 22, 2025 | 49 comments

“06880” founder and executive editor Dan Woog writes:

This is not going away.

The Board of Education, superintendent of schools, and Staples High principal and athletic director may hope that the tsunami of outrage following the non-renewal of boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense will disappear soon.

School will be out in a month. Certainly then, the thinking goes, students, parents and alumni will move on to another concern.

But that is magical thinking. It’s as unconnected to reality as the 14-hour “appeal hearing” in which 8 people were not allowed to testify, crucial evidence was withheld from the Board, and administrators (over and over) “did not recall.”

This is not going away. In fact, much worse lies ahead.

Despite what some think, this has gone far beyond a “soccer coach” issue. The 7-month process revealed an astonishing lack of guidance for coaches; arbitrary and capricious discipline across other Staples sports, and a complete absence of due process.

Taxpayers are seeing how much money is being spent in cases involving top administrators.

Parents across the board – in sports, academics, extracurriculars and special education – are coming forward with stories about disrespect and poor treatment. They are legion.

And students are watching.

At Town Hall last week, and again at Staples 4 days later, they saw their anger and concerns brushed aside, dismissed, even mocked.

They heard that Westport holds its coaches, teachers and students to a high standard. Yet they have seen over and over that the standards for an investigation, or an appeal hearing, can be appallingly low.

And though this has moved beyond a soccer-only situation, the entire school saw that a near-70-year-old program that earned national renown has been decimated.

Not once since October has the athletic director, principal or superintendent reached out to the 60 young men in the boys soccer program and asked, “How are you doing?”

The saddest part in this nobody-wins drama is that it did not have to be this way.

For 7 months, those in power could have found a solution. They could have reached out, talked, planned next steps to help the soccer coach and program, improve policies and procedures, and avoid a townwide uproar.

No one in power took those steps. And now – in the aftermath of what is widely seen as an immensely flawed hearing, and despite even more offers to avoid even more uproar – they are doubling down on their decision.

In a school district that decries bullying, students have learned that adults can be bullies too. Students learned that quiet discussion, compromise and resolution can be viewed as weakness. They learned life-long lessons about arrogance, stubbornness and cowardice.

This is not going away. Buckle up.

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Posted in Categories, Education, Local politics, Staples HS

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[OPINION] “On The Wreckord”: For The Record

Posted on May 19, 2025 | 4 comments

Staples High teachers Jim Honeycutt and Mike Zito spent many years running the school’s Media Lab.

Jim Honeycutt

They’re retired now, but have followed the radio and TV productions — and more — with great interest. In response to Sunday’s “06880” Opinion piece about the “On the Wreckord” show, they write:

We support Kasey Feeley and her passionate advocacy for “On the Wreckord.”

We started the Staples TV program “Good Morning Staples” around 2011. We had so much support from the Staples administration that our teaching load was reduced to 4 classes, to allow us the time to produce the show twice a week with our TV Production classes.

The 2 TV classes had 4 periods each week to produce a 20-minute “Good Morning Staples” show. We worked frantically, but managed for each class to get a show out each week.

The first “Good Morning Staples” show (including yours truly) … 

Jim’s motto for the show was “Building Community Through Communication.” Twice a week during the school’s “Communication Time,” it was shown throughout the school. Everything stopped, in every classroom.

Our last “GMS” aired June 2016, the year we retired.

Unfortunately, the show was not sustained. The media program is still very successful, but went in a different direction.

Years later English instructor Mary Elizabeth Fulco contacted Jim for help. Inklings — the school paper — was interested in broadcasting a show similar to “GMS.”

Both of us helped. We worked with one student, and made some suggestions.

We watched the shows get better and better as time went by. They were well on their way.

Mike Zito, in the Staples Media Lab.

It would be more than a shame for “On the Wreckord” to go the way of “GMS.”

“On the Wreckord” will be a key to many students’ future college and career paths. We have had incredibly talented students over the years grace our TV shows. Eric Gallanty, DJ Sixsmith and Cooper Boardman are 3 who come immediately to mind. They are now broadcast professionals.

Jon Karmen went on to make the hit Netflix movie “Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admission Scandal.” While at Staples, he and Jake Andrews created the RubyDog 189 channel on YouTube. “Mentos: The Fresh Maker” had over 3 million views.

Many other students have gone on to careers, in a variety of media roles.

We told our students that more video is being shot now than ever before in world history. There are many jobs and careers out there.

A 4-part “Good Morning Staples” series starred TV Production student Charlie Greenwald (right) and Spanish teacher Horacio Ballesteros. Greenwald went on to study communications at Emerson College.

I am sure Kasey Feeley will find her place in that world as well. Keeping “On the Wreckord” supported is not only the right thing to do; it is something that should be supported and expanded.

We implore the Staples administration and Board of Education to support the development of media programs like “On the Wreckord” and “Good Morning Staples.” These programs build school community, and allow students to develop media skills that they can continue into college and careers beyond.

(NOTE: All “Good Morning Staples” shows can be found on YouTube.)

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

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[OPINION] Staples Junior: Save “On The Wreckord”!

Posted on May 18, 2025 | 5 comments

Kasey Feeley is a junior at Staples High School. She’s an executive producer for “On the Wreckord,” the very creative, extremely well crafted, and highly entertaining TV interview/news/entertainment show produced by Inklings, the school news source.

However, she says, the show may be in jeopardy.

Journalism teachers Joseph DelGobbo and Mary Elizabeth Fulco have dedicated dozens of hours of personal time to stay after school, and supervise filming in the TV studio.

Both have young children. They have decided — reluctantly — to step down, unless funding can be found.

(In addition to a stipend for the staff members, funds would also pay for recording technology for remote segments. Kasey has spent her own money on microphones, and brought equipment from home for others to ensure quality.)

The Board of Education Finance & Facilities Committee is in charge of stipends. Yet, Kasey says, it has not met since January.

“On the Wreckord” has not been recognized as a program, Kasey says, despite providing content for the student boyd and staff or years.

“The only way for us to advocate for ourselves is a committee that seemingly is in hibernation,” she adds.

“But I have never felt more driven to be civically engaged, and advocate for something.

Kasey sent this to assistant principal Christine Cincotta, and the Westport Board of Education:

Video editing has been a passion of mine since I was 8 or 9, meaning I’ve been filming and editing my own content as a dedicated hobby for almost 10 years.

After seeing “On the Wreckord” for the first time freshman year, I decided I wanted to become involved. This year I finally joined Inklings, taking Introduction to Journalism and Advanced Journalism for the chance of joining On the Wreckord.

Through dedication and showing my passion for media production, I was able to land the role of executive producer alongside sophomore Brooke Kirkham for 2025.

Kasey Feeley’s On the Wreckord graphic.

However, due to a lack of funding, it is highly likely the program will not continue next year. Not only is this devastating for me and Brooke, who share a passion for filmmaking, but it’s also disappointing for the Connections classes and teachers who enjoy watching once a month.

Through “On the Wreckord,” Staples students get a chance to look into the lives of their fellow students and see perspectives they might not otherwise see, whether that’s finding the best water fountain or hearing an interview from a teacher or student you haven’t met before.

It effectively turns Staples into an environment full of familiar faces, not just passing peers.

In the few weeks I have been in this role since I was appointed in April, and through preparing for this Thursday’s edition, I have seen the extent to which OTW connects our Staples community.

I watched people in and outside of Inklings show up for each other, each segment creator dedicating time from their personal and school lives to make quality segments.

While our program is not perfect, it is the heart of student broadcasting: connecting community.

The loss of this program would be detrimental to the Inklings community, as Brooke and I would lose our jobs, and our fellow Inklings staff members would lose a creative outlet unlike any other offered at Staples.

I am someone who has always done performing arts. I understand how terrifying putting yourself out there can be for anyone who didn’t grow up in a theatrical or musical environment.

But in my time at “On the Wreckord,” I have watched students take that leap and put themselves out there.

This program brings out a confidence in young adults unlike any other, as they present their passion for journalism to the entire student body and staff.

These are students who may otherwise not get the valuable performing experience that others get from Staples Players, rhetoric class, music classes, etc.

It also teaches segment creators how to use video editing software, an increasingly important skill in our rapidly developing technologically centered world.

The ending of “On the Wreckord” would be the end of one of Staples’ most valuable assets for student expression. I waited 3 years to be a part of this unique, dedicated community, and I’m not ready to give up on it just yet.

Kasey Feeley — shown here in the hallway outside Staples’ TV studio — has gained skills and confidence through On the Wreckord.

As someone who has taken classes like Radio 1 & 2, Theater, and Narrative Film Production, where you spend hours creating media that doesn’t typically leave your classroom, I have grown to appreciate the platform that On the Wreckord gives student producers, directors, broadcast hosts, etc.

Outside of “On the Wreckord,” there aren’t any programs at Staples that enable students to produce content that is published and shown to their peers outside of video editing or film classes.

I also see “On the Wreckord” as an opportunity to encourage other students. If Brooke or I can spend hours editing and filming to present something authentic with confidence, they can have confidence in their work as well.

Seeing “On the Wreckord” freshman year inspired me to pursue my passion for media production. I want to be that inspiration for any other students who want to find that confidence in themselves, who want to be involved in the Staples community, and connect with others over a shared passion for journalism and media.

Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein replied to Kasey: “I will ask our superintendent for information about this program/budget and get back to you.”

(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. We especially welcome student submissions. Email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

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