Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Josh Koskoff Makes Time, Police Make Arrests, Sweet P Makes Friends …

Posted on April 17, 2025 | 1 comment

What do Donald Trump, Elon Musk, JD Vance, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Ed Sheeran, Adrien Brody, Megan Kelly, Serena Williams, Loren Michaels, Mark Zuckerberg, Joe Rogan, Snoop Dogg — and Josh Koskoff — have in common?

All have just been named to Time Magazine’s list of 2025’s 100 Most Influential People.

If the name “Josh Koskoff” doesn’t ring a bell: Shame on you!

The Staples High School graduate, longtime resident and attorney is the third generation of his family at Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder.

But he does much more than just “practice law.”

Chris Murphy wrote the text for Koskoff’s Time Magazine honor. The Connecticut senator said:

For almost 2 decades, the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act prevented gun manufacturers from being held accountable for their role in the uniquely American epidemic of gun violence. Josh Koskoff, a feisty, public-­interest-minded lawyer in Connecticut, dared to challenge what was believed to be an impenetrable shield—and won.

When Josh agreed to help the families of Sandy Hook victims take on Remington, the company that manufactured and marketed the AR-15-style rifle used to murder 20 children and six adults in Newtown, Conn., he knew it would be an uphill battle. But in 2022, his novel approach won a $73 ­million settlement for the families.

Josh’s arguments — focused on corporate misconduct, not the Second Amendment — have become the model for holding the gun industry to account. In May, he filed lawsuits on behalf of Uvalde, Texas, families against gun manufacturer Daniel Defense, Meta, and Activision for their alleged roles in marketing AR-15-style rifles to a teenager who turned 18 just minutes before purchasing that rifle. No amount of money will bring back loved ones. But Josh gives the families he represents a real chance to seek justice.

That’s some record. And some recognition. Congratulations, Josh! (Hat tip: Kerry Long)

Josh Koskoff

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between April 9 and 16.

An 83-year-old Weston man was charged with driving under the influence, after a report of a vehicle operating erratically. The driver had pulled into Coleytown Elementary School. The driver then drove over a curb and through the grass.

A 22-year-old Hamden man was charged with 4 counts of larceny, and 4 counts of conspiracy to commit larceny, after 4 incidents in which tires and rims were stolen from vehicles at Honda and Toyota of Westport. After posting a $150,000 bond, he was turned over to Torrington Police, who had an active arrest warrant.

Meanwhile, the local crackdown on driving while texting — part of a statewide effort — was quite effective.

Westport Police issued 70 citations for drivers who texted. Interestingly, not one of the 70 was under the age of 20. Teenagers seem to have gotten the (text?) message well.

The most ticketed age group (21 citations) was 30-39. Overall, women received 43 tickets; men got 27.

The breakdown by age:

  • 20-29: 10 citations (women 7, men 3)
  • 30-39: 21 (women 12, men 9)
  • 40-49: 13 (women 9, men 4)
  • 50-59: 15 (women 11, men 4)
  • 60-69: 7 (women 4, men 3)
  • 70-79: 4 (all men)

Other citations include:

Distracted driving (not texting): 9 citations

  • Speeding: 8
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 6
  • Failure to renew registration: 5
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to carry license: 1
  • Failure to display plates: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Violation of license class: 1

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Yankee fans are not the only ones raving about Sweet P Bakery cookies.

The colossal treats — from the company founded by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello, which provides training and employment for people with disabilities  — are available at Yankee Stadium concession stands in sections 121 and 211.

On Tuesday, Yankee stars Austin Wells, Jasson Domínguez, and the aptly nicknamed Carlos “Cookie” Carrasco met with the Sweet P team.

Did the treats make it onto the post-game buffet table in the clubhouse? Or did the 3 players keep the stash for themselves?

Click here for a video of the afternoon.

Just another day at the ballpark.

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Speaking of sports: Girls rugby is one of the fastest growing programs in town.

On May 1 (5:30 p.m., Staples High School), girls of all — experienced or not — have a great opportunity to learn more.

Staples rugby will host the Vassar College women’s team. They’ll play an exhibition game, and lead drills.

The event is free, but pre-registration is requested. Click here to sign up.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Jaime Bairaktaris spoke to the Westport Rotary Club on Thursday.

He described the work and challenges of the 46-year-old non-profit, and — with EMS associate Fergal Moore — demonstrated CPR.

Jaime Bairaktaris’ slide shows important ways Westporters can help WVEMS. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Circle of Friends is a great group. Young volunteers join children and adults with special needs in an array of social programs and weekly play dates.

On May 4 (Inn at Longshore), the organization celebrates 18 years of friendship and impact. They’ll honor over 150 teen volunteers, and 2 Westport couples —Larissa Kirschner and Michael Chaney, and Elena and Marco Caggiano — for their longtime involvement with the group.

The Caggianos’ son John is also involved.

Governor Lamont and Senator Blumenthal plan to present the awards. For tickets and more information, click here.

From left: Larissa Kirschner and Michael Chaney; Elena and Marco Caggiano.

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The recent “06880” story on myTeam Triumph — the nonprofit that empowers people with disabilities (called “captains”) to participate in endurance events, with the support of men, women and teenagers (“angels”) who run, bike or swim alongside — brought several new captains to last Sunday’s practice.

The first race of the season is April 27. It’s the 46th annual Minute Man 10K, 5K and Kids’ Fun Run, and continues a long relationship between mTT and the sponsoring Westport Young Woman’s League.

There’s still time for captains, angels and non-running my Team Triumph volunteers to take part. Click here to sign up, and for more information.

The first practice run of the season, at Compo Beach.

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Peggy Bud and Tamara Jacobson have more than 60 years of combined experience in education, as educators, administrators and consultants. They wrote 2 books, to connect parents and educators around positive learning scenarios.

Their next project: a collaboration with the Westport Library’s Verso Studios on a new community podcast.

“Ask the Educators” debuted yesterday, with three 15-minute episodes. New episodes will drop every other week.

The podcast is available on the Verso Studios podcast page, through regular podcast distributors such as Apple and Spotify, and the Ask the Educators Substack.

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Is spring finally — fitfully — here?

Today’s “Westport … Naturall” photo — showing buds outside June Rose Whittaker’s window on Jennie Lane, off Compo Road South — seem to suggest “Yes! At last!”

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … in honor of Sweet P Bakery’s “hit” with the Yankees, here is today’s song:

This version is from 1908. After 117 years, it’s time to add “colossal cookies” to the line about “peanuts and Crackerjacks.”

(Every day, the “06880” Roundup is a grand slam. If you enjoy our daily dose of information, events and news you can use, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Library, Local business, Media, Sports, Staples HS

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Staples’ “We The People” Team Makes School History

Posted on April 15, 2025 | 6 comments

One of the joys of March Madness is watching low-seeded teams succeed.

“We the People” is not the NCAA basketball tournament.

But don’t tell that to the high school students who compete every year.

For 11 years, Staples High School juniors and seniors in Suzanne Kammerman’s Advanced Placement Politics & Government class have participated in the event.

They’re spurred by their interest in the subject, a strong desire to win, and the fierce passion their teacher — a former “We the People” competitor herself, at Shelton High School — brings to the classroom.

This is not exactly a “name the president and your 2 US senators” contest,

Here is one example of the questions they tackle, from a previous year:

Supreme Court Associate Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. wrote, “I think that we should be eternally vigilant against attempts to check the expression of opinions that we loathe and believe to be fraught with death, unless they so imminently threaten immediate interference with the lawful and pressing purposes of the law that an immediate check is required to save the country.” Do you agree or disagree with Justice Holmes? Why?

That’s a tough question. It takes a ton of work just to understand what Holmes said — let alone figure out what you think, then devise arguments for or against it.

But that’s what Staples students — under the direction of Kammerman (with help from Westport men and women with experience in government and law, who volunteer their time, plus several alumni) — have done since September.

In addition to the regular classroom component, they prepare and present oral arguments on specific sections of the Constitution in simulated congressional hearings, followed by a questi9n-and-answer session with a panel of judges.

It is not for the faint of heart. The students grapple with difficult constitutional questions — and the judges demand clear, compelling answers.

After months of preparation, the Staples team placed second at February’s state competition. Trumbull — their traditional “We the People” rival, who they’ve edged out in the past — took the top spot.

But the Westporters’ performance earned them a wild card spot. They began feverish preparations, for the 4-day trip to Washington.

Staples High School’s “We the People” team …

There were 48 teams in DC (making it more difficult, in a sense, than March Madness, with 68).

The first 2 rounds — and a meeting with Senator Chris Murphy in his office — were followed by a Thursday night DJ dance party. The highlight there was not grinding, but the announcement of the top 10 teams.

Among them: Staples High.

Kammerman’s kids were ecstatic. But they quickly settled down.

The first rounds had been held in a convention center. Friday was more historic: The finals were set for the National Union Building, an 1890 event space.

Friday night featured the awards ceremony. Staples’ “We the People” team finished 8th in the nation.

… and their national competition award.

That’s their highest finish ever. In 2020, the pandemic forced the competition into a virtual format. With fewer states competing, and a trunacated format — 1 round of competition, instead of 3 — Staples placed 5th.

Staples was not the only wild card team to succeed this year. Five of the top 10 teams shared that honor — including national champion Sprague High of Oregon.

Perhaps the NCAA could benefit from some of that excitement.

“We the People” take their show on the road.

Congratulations to Kammerman and her students: Lila Boroujerdi, Kate Bulkeley, Lucas Ceballos-Cala, Olivia Cohn, Sofia Donroe, Gunnar Eklund, Will Enquist, Kasey Feeley, Nolan Francis, Jay Hari, Hugo Jacques, Souleye Kebe, Miles Kahn, Aidan Lapatine, Ryder Levine, Gray Peters, Andrew Rebello, Jack Robinson, Zara Saliba, R E I Seltzer, Jake Shufro, Alex Sod.

We — the Westport people — are very proud of you!

PS: Kammerman and the entire team give thanks to their “guest judges” who helped this year — Ira Bloom, J. Russell Bulkeley, Rachel Cohn, Danielle Dobin, Jamie Dockray, Jonathan Francis, Steve Gerber, Deb Goldfarb, Lee Goldstein, Jeff Hammer, Liz Heyer, Lauren Karpf, Rob Hordon, Andy Laskin, Jim Marpe, Nita Prasad, Candice Savin and Maria Signore.

Alumni who assisted include Andrew Berkowitz, Will Boberski, Mia Bomback, Nina Bowens, Emerson Briggs, Kendra Cheng, Alex Cozzolino, Dylan Fiore, Mack Haymond, Nate Hordon, Sorel Kennedy, Sam Laskin, Tucker Peters, Srish Popuri, Ko Seltzer, Jack Srihari and Lilly Weiz.

(For more information on “We the People,” and its sponsor The Center For Civic Education, click here.)

Staples’ “We the People” team, with Senator Chris Murphy. There may be a future US senator in Suzanne Kammerman’s class.

The video below features one of the 6 “units” of the Staples “We the People” calss. This panel focused on the Bill of Rights, exploring the rights and protections it guarantees.  The team includes Olivia Cohn, Graysen Peters and Alex Sod. Nolan Francis was on this team, but could not participate in Washington because of an injury.

(“06880” often highlights the achivements of Staples students. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Politics, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Pic Of The Day #2916

Posted on April 13, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2916

Ready for lacrosse, at the Paul Lane Field pressbox (Photo/Richard Fogel)

Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2916

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Roundup: Savvy Smoker, Ramadan, Gatsby …

Posted on April 12, 2025 | 15 comments

Savvy Smoker was busted this week.

That’s as regular a headline as “New York Giants lose.”

Law enforcement has served 4 warrants since December 2023 — including twice in the past 2 months — after complaints of non-licensed cannabis sales, and selling to minors. Numerous marijuana and THC products were seized, and a sales associate arrested.

So why hasn’t the store been shut down?

“Its frustrating,” Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas acknowledges.

“We report every incident to the state. But they, and the Department of Consumer Protection, say they can’t do anything.”

Koskinas will meet with Representative Town Meeting leaders next week. He hopes the RTM can draft an ordinance to take action against a store, after a certain number of violations.

The chief also spoke with the Aspetuck Health District. They were sympathetic, but could not find language to make repeated arrests a public health issue.

“They pay fines,” Koskinas says of the Savvy Smoker, which seems to be living up to its name. “But they keep on going.”

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Today is the beginning of Passover. Next Sunday is Easter.

And this past week marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

It’s a tholiday tradition to visit civil service offices, meet the executive officers, and give thanks and appreciation for the contributions and services they provide.

Members of the Ismaili Muslim community gave Eid al-Fitr gifts of appreciation to 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and Fire Chief Nick Marsan, for their efforts on behalf of the Ismaili Muslim community and the people of Westport.

Town officials, with representatives of the Ismaili Muslim community.

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Happy 100th birthday, “Great Gatsby”!

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel — hailed as “the Sistine Chapel of American literature” — was published a century ago this week.

In its honor, the Boston Globe has looked back at the author, and his muse.

The path leads to Westport.

Taking note of the work of Robert Steven Williams and Richard Webb — Westporters who have written and made a film about the possible role our town played in inspired some of the characters and scenes — the Globe says:

When Fitzgerald arrived in Westport in May of 1920, both he and it were entering new eras. He was newly married and on honeymoon with Zelda, a vivacious 19-year-old Alabaman who later became a writer as well. Westport, meanwhile, was leaving its agricultural roots behind and becoming a more industrialized, suburban enclave that parades of wealthy New Yorkers, Bostonians, and other city dwellers took the train to visit. Artists like the Fitzgeralds, priced out of more established communities like Greenwich, came too.

At the time, Westport was practically lawless. The town’s police had little interest in enforcing Prohibition and bootleggers smuggling Canadian liquor criss-crossed Long Island Sound. The Fitzgeralds drank heavily at speakeasies, skinny dipped, and partied on the beach. “It was a bit like the Wild West,” said Robert Steven Williams, a Westport resident and one of the filmmakers behind “Gatsby in Connecticut: The Untold Story,” a 2020 documentary.

Click here for the full Boston Globe article. (Hat tips: Fred Cantor, Gwen Tutun)

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Speaking of important novels: As a student at Staples High School, Shelley Fisher’s most memorable assignment came from English teacher Tony Arciola: a paper on how Mark Twain used irony to attack racism in “Huckleberry Finn.”

She became a member of Yale’s first graduating class to include women. She earned a doctorate in American studies, and — as a professor of English at Stanford — Shelley Fisher Fishkin is now one of the nation’s foremost Twain scholars.

Her newest book — to be published Tuesday — is “Jim: The Life and Afterlives of Huckleberry Finn’s Comrades.” It explores the influence of the enslaved made on his young white companion.

Press materials call Jim “a highly polarizing figure: hH is viewed as an emblem both of Twain’s alleged racism and of his opposition to racism; a diminished character inflected by minstrelsy and a powerful challenge to minstrel stereotypes; a reason for banning ‘Huckleberry Finn’ and a reason for teaching it; an embarrassment and a source of pride for Black readers.”

Fishkin explores Twain’s portrayal of him, as well as Jim’s “afterlife” in film, translation, and classrooms today. “The result is Jim as we have never seen him before — a fresh and compelling portrait of one of the most memorable Black characters in American fiction.” Click here to order, and for more information. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

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Speaking of Staples: Ben Casparius made his Major League Baseball debut last season.

Cooper Boardman made it Thursday night.

Casparius — a 2017 Wrecker grad — did it on the mound, for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Boardman’s achievement was in the broadcast booth.

The 2017 Staples and 2021 Syracuse University grad called his first major league game, for the Boston Red Sox’s WEEI radio network. He’s doing all 3 games of the series in Chicago, against the White Sox.

According to the Ruden Report, which broke the story, Boardman has been broadcasting Boston’s AAA Worcester games since 2021. He has also worked for Fox Sports and Westword One, working college basketball, softball and lacrosse.

Boardman began his career at Staples. He called a number of sports, and won several John Drury Awards. Click here for the WEEI Tweet.

Cooper Boardman

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Speaking still of Staples: Democracy is not dead.

Every spring and fall, Westport’s League of Women Voters registers new voters at Staples High School.

This week, they enrolled 39 seniors, in both parties. They handed out about 20 applications to others.

The new voters’ first chance will come this November, in local elections.

Westport’s newest voters, at Staples High School.

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Harbor Watch knows their people.

Every year, Earthplace’s water quality research program hosts a “Cocktails & Clams” fundraiser.

Every year, it sells out.

This year’s event is May 31 (5 to 7 p.m., Copps Island Oysters).

As always, the draw is an unlimited raw bar with fresh oysters and clams, canapés, drinks and live music, at the scenic Norwalk Harbor venue.

All proceeds support Harbor Watch’s science education programs. Faced with significant federal funding cuts, this year’s gala is crucial to empower local youth as future environmental stewards.

To purchase tickets, become a sponsor or make a tax-deductible donation, click here.

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Party planning is stressful.

Marinda Freeman can help. The former executive director of Martha Stewart Catering will discuss her new book, “Everything is an Event,” on May 2 (4 p.m., Westport Library).

A Q-and-A and signing session will follow. Registration is $5. Attendees receive a 25% book discount. Click here for more information.

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One of the joys of this time of year is the return of chirping birds.

This blue jay hung out at Richard Fogel’s feeder — and posed for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … you may have figured this one was coming, based on the photo above.

Or not.

(Mark Twain, F. Scott Fitzgerald — today, Westport meets the world AND some literary superstars. Just another “06880” day. If you enjoy Roundups like this, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local politics, Police, religion, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Church Lane Closure, Savvy Smoker Seizure, Our Climate …

Posted on April 10, 2025 | 11 comments

With strong support from landlords, and a boost from Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, the Board of Selectwomen voted yesterday to once again close Church Lane to parking, paving the way for outdoor dining, pedestrian strolling and music.

This year’s dates — May 15 to October 5 — are slightly less than in previous years. But they’re a bit longer than the original proposal.

Major landlords David Waldman and Roger Leifer supported the closure. So did restaurateurs from Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo, who noted they were in favor despite losing parking in front of their businesses. One business owner in Sconset Square (Bungalow) objected.

This will be the sixth summer for the Church Lane closure. It began in 2020, in response to the COVID pandemic.

Donations to the Westport Downtown Association help pay for the music. Venmo @WDA-DowntownWestport, or click here.

Outdoor dining on Church Lane. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The third time was not the charm.

Or the fourth.

For the fourth time since December 2023 — and second in 2 months — Savvy Smoker has been busted.

The vape-and-more — apparently, much more — Post Road East store was searched yesterday by Westport Police detectives, and members of the state Drug Control Division.

They found  pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes, canisters of THC flower, THC resin products, THC vape cartridges, and THC edible products. All are illegal, at that location.

Less than 2 months ago — on March 11 — police investigated non-licensed cannabis sales, and complaints of sales to minors. Numerous marijuana and THC products were seized, and a sales associate arrested.

Westport Police received information that non-licensed cannabis sales were continuing, resulting in yesterday’s search.

The investigation is ongoing. Additional arrests are anticipated.

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Speaking of police: They made 3 custodial arrests between April 2 and 9.

A 38-year-old Shelton man was charged with criminal attempt to commit larceny, identity theft and forgery, after an investigation into the theft of mail containing personal checks.

A 41-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny, following the theft of $2,700 worth of merchandise from Ulta Bueaty. Employees described his vehicle, and he was stopped on the Sherwood Island Connector.

A 62-year-old Weston woman was arrested for driving under the influence, and failure to drive in the propero lane, following a 12:15 a.m. accident at Weston Road and Merritt Parkway Exit 42.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Driving while texting: 39 citations
  • Failure to renew registration: 11
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 11
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Driving while texting (3rd or subsequent offense): 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Passing in a no-passing zone: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to display license plates: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Improper rear marker lamps: 1

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It’s your yard. And our climate.

That’s the name of Sustainable Westport’s newest initiative.

“Your Yard, Our Climate” invites Westporters to “reimagine their outdoor spaces as powerful tools in the fight against climate change — demonstrating that meaningful environmental progress can start right at home.”

From April through June, the program will feature a series of events and educational programs to help residents transform their yards into vibrant, climate-positive habitats.

Experts will help residents explore practical ways to rethink lawns, support pollinators, choose native plantings, and adopt sustainable landscaping practices, on any size property.

Events include a native plant sale, “Lights Out Connecticut,” compost workshop, Spring Garden Fest at Wakeman Town Farm, tomato master class and more.

Sustainable Westport says: “The initiative emphasizes the significant role that personal choices in our outdoor spaces play in addressing the climate crisis. Whether it’s planting trees that improve air quality, reducing lawn space to support biodiversity, or shifting to eco-friendly yard care practices, each action contributes to a healthier, more climate-friendly Westport — and planet.”

For more information on events, click here.

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Speaking of nature: A dolphin washed up on Saugatuck Shores yesterday, near Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Andrew Colabella emailed the Conservation Department, Aspetuck Health District and Animal Control, for assistance in removing it. He hopes a test will reveal what happened.

(Photo/Haley Burns and Andrew Colabella)

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In the 2 months since it opened, The Clubhouse has become Westport’s go-to events space.

Between its simulators, karaoke rooms and bar/restaurant with ginormous screens (March Madness was huge), the Post Road East gathering spot is taking the town by storm.

Owners Tim and Emily Zobl paused yesterday, for the official ribbon cutting.

From left: 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, owner Tim Zobl, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, owner Emily Zobl, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, 3rd Selectwoman Candice Savin. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Guests then headed upstairs, for the reveal of the new rooftop lounge.

It’s a large, open and fun space, with tables, TV screens, cornhole — and another bar.

When it opens next week, it will add one more outdoor option to Westport’s entertainment scene.

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Since 1943, Staples Tuition Grants has provided need-based assistance to Staples High School graduates. Last year STG awarded $381,500 to 105 students.

That money comes from donations. And, on May 1, some of it will come from Millie Rae’s shoppers.

On that day, the store at 1011 Post Road East will give 10% of all proceeds from sales of its gifts, decorations, jewelry and household items to STG. From 3 to 6 p.m., there will be “sips and nibbles” too.

The event comes right before Mother’s Day, graduation day — and the awarding of Staples Tuition Grants’ 2025 scholarships.

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Speaking of Staples: The school’s University of Connecticut Early College Experience program flies under the radar. (Though a story last year described how Staples students take courses in high school for a fraction of the cost of normal college tuition; they’re weighted like AP courses, to determine GPAs).

But the word is out. And UConn just announced that Staples has the sixth highest number of students enrolled in the program in the state: 354.

Go Wreckers! Go Huskies!

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It’s not often that national events find their way onto the agenda of a local board.

But this morning’s meeting of the town’s Pension Investment Committee (11 a.m., Zoom: Meeting ID: 835 5789 3813; Passcode: 452326) has just one item to discuss: “current market volatility.”

Let’s hope they know what they’re doing. Because not too many others do.

 

S&P 500, April 2-9.

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The Westport Country Playhouse “Family Festivities” series continues May 3 (1 p.m. and 4 p.m. with “Pete the Cat: The Musical.”

It’s recommended for grades pre-K through 3. All tickets are $30. Check out the trailer below, then click here for tickets.

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You can almost feel the buds about to burst, in today’s evocative “Westport … Naturally” photo of Schlaet’s Point, where Compo Beach laps up against Hillspoint Road.

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … in response to the getting-to-be-regular news about Savvy Smoker (story above):

(Downtown, business, police, environmental — if there’s news in Westport, you’ll read about it on “06880.” We rely on readers to help us do it. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Environment, Local business, Restaurants, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Enufelon!

Posted on April 10, 2025 | 42 comments

The Staples High School graduate is a successful entrepreneur. Capitalism has been good to him.

He was an early, and happy, Tesla owner. But even before Elon Musk took his chainsaw to government, the Westport native was uncomfortable with the man behind the automobile.

And with others of Musk’s ilk too: the Bezoses, Kochs and Zuckerbergs, billionaire-types who used their wealth to take government policy matters into their own hands.

In conversations with friends, and in writing, the Staples grad grasped at words to describe those people buying politicians and political favors — as well as those capitulating to them, on the receiving end.

“Oligarch, robber barons — those are anachronistic terms,” he says. “There was nothing in the vernacular.”

So he set out to create one. (The man prefers to remain anonymous. He wants the focus to be on his project, not on him.)

He came up with “Enough Elon.” Playfully, he turned it into one word, spelled phonetically: “Enufelon.”

Then — he is, after all, a very successful entrepreneur — he set about branding it.

He wanted to create an icon, or unifying symbol, to knit together and help galvanize the millions of people who, he knows, feel as he does.

He hired a designer, to bring his ideas — something simple, yet alarming or menacing looking — to life.

The result, after several iterations, is this:

(Along the way — in a very telling moment — the designer expressed concern about the project. “Are you worried about retribution?” the entrepreneur asked. “Yes,” the designer said. Enufelon’s creator promised anonymity, but notes, “What kind of world do we live in, where people are so fearful about something like this?”)

The Westport native secured the Enufelon.com domain, and developed a website. In addition to spreading the word about his word, it offers branded products (coffee mugs, stickers, caps, tees, totes and posters), and provides opportunities to sponsor special events, and license the trademark.

He welcomes collaboration. For example, a union — or politician like Bernie Sanders and AOC – that sells products on their site, can sell Enufelon swag too.

One goal, says the wordsmith, is for “enufelon” to become a symbol of solidarity for the resistance.

Another is for the word to be used regularly, and become part of the lexicon.

A third is to create a .org subsidiary — much as how OpenAI began before spinning out a commercial, for-profit entity. Enufelon’s “.org” could facilitate and sponsor public services such as watchdog groups, think tanks, research into private philanthropy and more.

Items for sale in the “Stuffelon” store, at Enufelon.com. 

Enufelon’s inventor notes that trademarked brand names may eventually find their way into the dictionary.

“Escalator” and “thermos,” he says, were once trademarked.

Will “enufelon” one day join them?

On one hand, he hopes so.

On the other hand, wouldn’t it be nice to have it become as anachronistic as, say, oligarch and robber baron?

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Posted in Politics, Staples HS

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[OPINION] Staples Teacher Supports Cellphone Ban

Posted on April 9, 2025 | 28 comments

This morning’s “06880” Opinion piece from the Staples High School PTA executive board — opposing superintendent of school Thomas Scarice’s proposed full ban on cellphones in Westport Public Schools — drew plenty of public comments, on all sides of the issue.

It also drew a private email, from a longtime Staples teacher. The teacher used their name but requested anonymity, due to district regulations about posting on social media. The teacher writes:

There is most certainly a problem at Staples with cell phones. That parents are relying on students saying that there is not a problem is laughable.

I urge any parent to have an honest conversation with a Staples teacher. You would hear the exact opposite.

Students are completely  addicted to their phones.  As a teacher who strictly enforces the putting of phones in the holder for all classes (grades 9-12), I can say without a doubt that every single day I encounter resistance from students, even though my stance and policy on phones has not changed since the first day of school, or within the last 5 years.

Every week I confiscate phones, bring them down to the assistant principals’ office, email/call home, and follow up with the admin after class.

Cell phone holder.

The reason many teachers do not enforce the phone holders is that it is exhausting. No matter how consistent teachers are with their phone policies, the students are extremely resistant (and unfortunately somewhat rude) to giving them up, even during a class.

Having taught at Staples for over 20 years, I can say that phones have no positive impact on the school day.

I understand that students and parents feel that students will have difficulty navigating their schedules. Students are unaware of their schedules precisely due to the Saturn app. Before Saturn, my students always knew their schedules.  They either had them printed out or they had them memorized over time. There was never an issue with students not knowing where they were going.

If students could use phones responsibly we would not be here. But every day students are sneaking phones, leaving class under the guise of having to use the bathroom and then scrolling through social media. I see it every single day here at Staples.

Phones are specifically designed to be addictive. Our students are being asked to monitor their use against a device that is using their own brains to work against what is best for them.

Every notification excites — and distracts — students.

I implore all parents to support the superintendent’s proposed ban on phones at Staples. Your children are not benefiting at all by having access to their phones throughout the school day.

We are doing a disservice to them. I deeply hope the community will come together to realize what is best for these students.

 

 

 

 

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[OPINION] Staples PTA Executive Committee Urges Ban On Cellphone Ban

Posted on April 9, 2025 | 45 comments

The Staples High School PTA Executive Committee wrote a letter regarding superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice’s proposed cell phone ban. It was to be read at last Thursday’s Board of Education meeting.

When the session was canceled, the letter was emailed to all BOE members. A member shared it without consent, and it was published by a local media outlet.

The Staples PTA Executive Committee says: “To ensure transparency, we would greatly appreciate it if ‘06880’ shares this letter in its entirety with the Westport community. Anyone wishing to engage in further discussion should email us at shs_pta@westportps.org.”

Dear Members of the Westport BOE:

We, the members of the Staples High School PTA Executive Board, write to you as a united group concerning Superintendent Scarice’s proposed bell-to-bell cell phone (and personal device) ban at Staples High School.

For context, we are deeply committed to Westport Public Schools. We are the mothers of 25 current Staples students, 10 Staples graduates, and 11 kids rising from elementary and middle school.

Collectively we’ve spent 181 years inside of WPS, and our members have volunteered on 40 WPS executive PTA boards, including 15 turns as president. You’d be hard pressed to find a group more invested, with more historical knowledge, and with more school spirit than the current Staples PTA.

Cell phones are currently allowed, in certain places and times, at Staples High School.

First, we do not support the personal use of cell phones in the classroom. We believe kids should not have unfettered access to their phones, nor should they use phones for any unapproved personal reason inside of the classroom. That said, we unanimously oppose a school-wide cell phone (and personal device) ban, and we unanimously oppose the purchase of Yondr bags.

As you consider the various options on the road ahead, we feel it important to share 3 requests made to Superintendent Scarice at a meeting on March 19th:

  • That separate community conversations be planned between parents — one for K-8, and another for 9-12.
  • That a committee be formed, consisting of teachers, admins, students and parents.
  • That the survey be sent after the community conversation. We are disappointed that none were realized.

You are already aware of our concerns for the replacement of cell phones inside the classroom as integrated by teachers. Many among our Staples staff count on – and expect – phones to be used by students as cameras, video recorders, calculators, scanners, and more. No workaround has been presented for these uses.

We are concerned about the unintended consequences of a cell phone ban, and believe that if kids cannot access phones during their free time, they will instead be more inclined to do personal business on their computers during classroom time, and thereby create a tremendous problem for teachers.

Regarding the wuperintendent’s justification for a ban, we maintain – based on hundreds of conversations with parents, students and even teachers – that there is not a cell phone problem inside of Staples High School.

Further, while there is a policy governing cell phone use, it is rarely enforced, largely up to teacher discretion, and unknown to most students and parents.

Should the WPS BOE deem Staples a candidate for tighter cell phone regulations, then why not just tighten the rules? And have students – and their parents – sign a code of conduct, just like we do for internet use and plagiarism. We are confident this is a prudent place to start.

We believe students should have access to their phones during lunch and free periods. We’ve heard you when you say that the lunchroom is a good place to have a conversation and “just talk.”

But if you were to visit the Staples cafeteria, you’d see that’s exactly what they do: they talk. Even with their phones on their person.

And please understand cell phones are how our students find one another in the lunchroom. It’s a huge space with hundreds of kids on a rotating schedule. They use their cells to find their friends, then sit and talk.

These are not Staples students. But they could be.

Much of this conversation relates to social media usage. The Staples PTA does not believe students should use–or have access to–social media during classroom time.

We are surprised that the Westport Public Schools do not block these sites off of the district networks. That seems like an easy solution. In addition to considering a clearer cell phone policy, we ask that you consider blocking these sites before a bell to bell ban.

Most concerning of the proposed cell phone ban is the cost associated with Yondr bags. Wilton Public Schools spent $80,000 with Yondr (not $1,800 as reported by the Westport Journal) – with a smaller student population (1,200 at Wilton HS versus Staples’ 1,700+), and magnetized the outside of their one school entrance. Staples uses 5 separate student entrances.

That doesn’t even take into account the manpower needed to lock and unlock the Yondr “stations” multiple times during each school day, and the staff needed to maintain the bags themselves. If Yondr bags are to be used, it’s prudent to plan extra head count to the Staples staff for these roles. And they are a recurring cost.

Yondr bags have a limited shelf life. and every freshman class will need new ones, at a cost of $25-30 per unit. That doesn’t account for lost and broken bags (currently at a rate of 2/week reported in Wilton).

Students entering Northbridge High School in Massachusetts present their Yondr pouches — with phones inside — to be locked. (Photo/Allan Jung for Worcester Telegram & Gazette)

Has anyone determined where the Yondr magnets will be mounted? They are affixed to concrete poles outside of Wilton High School; the Staples facade is glass and brick. Are there construction costs associated with bringing Yondr to Staples?

Finally, we know that the Staples population will soar to well over 1,800 in the next few years, and so we ask, what are the actual costs, both for now and into the future?

As an overall question: What is the perceived defined problem, and what is the measurable solution? We believe that a cell phone ban is a movement–applicable to elementary and middle schools–as opposed to an actual Staples problem, and without a clear issue to solve or goal to meet, this is all just symbolic.

We also maintain that our Staples students are bright, motivated, eager to learn, gracious with their time and community support, and overall good citizens. The Staples PTA is profoundly confident that if given structured rules around cell phone usage inside the classroom, our students will rise to occasion, without requiring a punitive, prison-like environment.

There is one constant report among Staples graduates: that they leave Staples High School ready for the next level, whether that be college, the work force or the military.

That is a testament to everyone involved in their educational journey, and why Staples is the #1 high school in the state. So let’s treat these students as the young adults they are.

Let’s give them parameters and structure, but most importantly, let’s give them latitude. Let’s trust them with their free time, to make good decisions, and embody the Westport Public Schools’ value system.

Let’s work together to empower them.

Sincerely,
Jodi Harris, Co-President
Stefanie Shackelford, Co-President
Elena Caggiano, VP-Past President
Marie Tyber, VP-Secretary
Lara Willis, VP-Treasurer
Michelle Macris, VP-Treasurer
Aileen Brill, VP-Ways & Means
Jenny Sydor, VP-Ways & Means
Ying Stafford, VP- Communications Sandy Srihari, VP-Volunteers
Tracy Benton, VP-Volunteers
Karina Betfarhad, VP-Graduation
Amie Peck, VP-Graduation
Pamela Bernstein, VP-Community Outreach
Maria Mulvehill, VP-Community Outreach
Caroline Hendley, VP-Member at Large

 

 

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Posted in Education, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Long Lots Building Committee, Staples Math Team, “Hands Off!” TikTok …

Posted on April 8, 2025 | 19 comments

The Long Lots School Building Committee meets tonight (6 p.m., Town Hall Room 201/201A). The agenda includes:

✔ Brief project update

✔ Public Comment

✔ Work Session to review the items listed below. The public may attend, but not participate in these discussions.

  • Design session for exterior elevations
  • Review of exterior material samples
  • Discussion of options for entrance bridge and raingarden area
  • Terrace 4: transition, vehicular access, existing stone wall
  • Review initial courtyard concepts
  • Site plan review.

A very rough plan of a possible new Long Lots Elementary School, presented at this winter’s State of the Town meeting.

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Congratulations to the Staples High School math team!

The “mathletes” finished first among all public schools in this year’s 29-school Fairfield County Math League.

They beat Greenwich — always a joy for Stapleites, whether on the field or in the classroom — and finished second overall, behind private Brunswick School.

That vaults them into the state meet — and the New England Association of Math Leagues competition, May 2 in Canton, Massachusetts.

Sophomore Ayush Rudra earned the highest sophomore score. Last year, he was the top freshman in the league.

The team (and Math Club, both under faculty advisor Mike Forgette) draws students interested in the complexity, problem-solving challenges, and excitement of mathematics.

They say that the qualities needed for success in math competitions include clear communication, quick decision-making, curiosity, passion, and a bit of “light-heartedness.” They don’t get stressed by tough questions; they work collaboratively to solve them. (There is an individual component to math meets, too.)

The math team is like any sports team, they say. The more they practice, the better they get.

Go Wreckers!

Math Club and team advisor Mike Forgette (far left) with Math Club members (from left): Serena Diamond, Sahil Vora, Chloe Wong, Adan Wang, Anit Arvind, Ayush Rudra, Abe Lobsenz, Akil Arvind. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Saturday’s “Hands Off!” mobilization march drew the largest political protest crowd to the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge since the Vietnam War.

It was one of over 1,200 such events across the country. In Connecticut, crowds also gathered in Greenwich, Stamford, New Haven and Hartford.

A 56-second TikTok video — showing snippets of demonstrations from all 50 states — has racked up over 6 million views.

There — alphabetically, so it’s right near the beginning — is the representative rally from Connecticut.

And it’s ours.

Click here or below to see. (Hat tip: Lisa Newman)

@stormy.by.nature

HANDS OFF ALL 50 STATES! Way to show up!! #handsoff #50501 #april5th2025 @MeidasTouch @Aaron Parnas

♬ original sound – stormybynature

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Book these April events at the Westport Book Shop:

“Savor: Recipes to Celebrate” (April 10, 6 p.m.): Food Network competitor, Staples High culinary teacher, AMG Catering owner and cookbook author Alison Milwe Grace discusses her new book.

“Tuesday’s Mah Jongg Is More Than a Game” (April 16, 6 p.m.) Local author Marsha Temlock discusses her latest novel about friendship and strengthening bonds, as a group of friends support each other through life’s challenges.

Celebrate Poetry Month (April 17, 6 p.m.): Poetry reading and conversation with Ira Joe Fisher ,

Knitting Workshop (April 21, 6 p.m.): Session with avid knitter Linda Franciscovich, for knitters of all levels. Bring needles and yarn, and your knitting project.

Short Story Book Club (April 24, 6 to 7:30 p.m.). “The Elephant Vanishes” by Haruki Murakami, and “Patriotism” by Yukio Mishima.

Local artist Linn Cassetta is exhibitor for the month of April at the Book Shop. A reception is set for April 23 (6 to 7:30 p.m., Westport Book Shop).

Space is limited for the book events. RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

. .Linn Cassetta

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The Fortunoff family — Scott, Laurie, and sons Aaron (Staples High sophomore) and Brett (Bedford Middle School 8th grader) — partnered with Staples’ Cereal4All Club and Stop & Shop last weekend.

They collected over 1,000 boxes of cereal, along with cash donations, to provide breakfast food for those who need it. Homes with Hope picked up all the donations.

“Thank you, Westport!” say the Fortunoffs.

Collecting cereal, for all. From left: Aaron Fortunoff, Alex Burtzlaff, Alex Kovics, Lemar Feliciano. (Stop & Shop manager).

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There is always something going on at VFW Post 399.

This Friday (April 11; $20, plus 1 drink minimum), it’s comedy.

Laura High, Joe Portillo, and Matt Vita all take the stage. Doors open at 7 p.m. for food and beverages. The laughs begin at 8. Click here for tickets.

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Speaking of the VFW: Emmy-nominated composer/pianist Steve Sandberg plays Ellington, Monk and Mingus this week at Jazz at the Post (Thursday, April 10, VFW; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; $20 music cover, $15 veterans and students).

“Masterfully blending classical, world music and jazz with the excitement of virtuosic improvisation,” he’ll be joined by bassist Michael O’Brien, drummer Jeff Hirshfield, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Things are just ducky in today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, from Gray’s Creek:

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of the “Westport … Naturally” photo above:

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for information, news you can use, and much more. If you appreciate what you read — today and/or any other day — please donate by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Hamlet Update, VersoFest Finale, A Better Chance Honor …

Posted on April 7, 2025 | 17 comments

Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell offers this update on the Hamlet at Saugatuck project:

Tonight (Monday, April 7, 6 p.m., Zoom), the third agenda item will be a discussion of the proposal.

April 28 is the date for public comment only, in person at Town Hall.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board met last week, and continued their Hamlet hearing to May 7. That may disrupt the Conservation Commission schedule, which is currently set for April 23 and 30.

The Architectural Review Board meets on April 10. They have not yet completed their review of the project.

Mandell says: “P&Z will go deep into May at this point” in its Hamlet discussion. “June is looking more and more a reality.”

The RTM member adds: “There are still other pieces – an 8-24 for use of town property will also need to be filed with P&Z, and that could slow up the timeline.

“The Historic District Commission will have to weigh in as well, as every building involved is under their jurisdiction, not just the historic ones on Railroad Place. The Board of Selectwomen acting as the Traffic Authority will also need to render decision on traffic and parking issues.

“A group of citizens, concerned with the impacts of the project, and calling itself the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck has formed and has become active.” Click here for their website.

Click here, then scroll down for all pending applications and recent approvals related to the Hamlet at Saugatuck.

The 21 Charles Street office building would be renovated, in the Hamlet’s plans. This view looks north on Charles Street. Franklin Street would become two-way — but only between Charles Street and Railroad Place (right side of rendering).

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Four great days of the 4th annual VersoFest ended yesterday.

Paul Shaffer — legendary “Saturday Night Live” performer, and musical director for both David Letterman and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — entertained a capacity Westport Library crowd.

He chatted with fellow “SNL” alum (and iconic Beehive Queen) Christine Ohlman. (He brought jingle bells too, in homage to Darlene Love’s famous
“Baby Please Come Home” Letterman appearances at Christmas.)

Paul Shaffer and Christine Ohlman. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

VersoFest is a huge undertaking. Congratulations to all who helped bring Patti Smith, the Wallflowers, 5iveFingaz, Bruce Springsteen’s people, and so much more to the “loudest library on earth.”

Speaking of which: The website I Love Libraries just gave it a shoutout.

The story — “The Hippest Damn Library in the Country” includes that exact quote from Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz.

It adds Doors drummer John Densmore’s description: “The coolest damn library, ever.”

Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Dennis Jackson)

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At the risk of sounding self-promotional — but with the goal of promoting one of my favorite organizations in Westport — I pass along the news that A Better Chance of Westport is honoring me with their first-ever “Community Ally Award.”

It will be presented at the annual Dream Event gala (April 26, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

It’s a huge honor, for sure, and one that could be given to countless men and women who have helped the non-profit thrive over more than 2 decades, as it has provided educational and life benefits to dozens of young men of color from less-advantaged communities.

I will be thinking of all of them at the fundraiser. And I’ll be honored to honor the scholars themselves.

The highlight — as always — will be the speeches by the graduating seniors, and a returning alum (this year, Yoel Hooper-Antunez).

Click here for tickets, and more information. I hope to see you there!

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The gateways to Westport just got a nice more welcoming.

This past weekend, 6 Rotary Club signs were updated. They include the new Rotary International logo, and include a 4-sided inspirational message.

It is a wish for peace to prevail in our homes, schools, communities, and on earth.

Westport’s 2 Rotary Clubs worked together on the project, with global peace builders Rick Benson and Dennis Wong.

The signs are at I-95 Exit 17 (on the northbound island); the Sherwood Island Connector across from the transfer station; Post Road East, at the Southport line; Post Road West, in front of Whole Foods; Merritt Parkway Exit 41, across from the former Red Barn restaurant, and on Route 136 near Norwalk.

The sign by Merritt Parkway Exit 42 disappeared a few years ago.

Rotary sign near Merritt Parkway Exit 41.

In addition, a peace pole was installed at Compo Beach. It’s part of the renovation of the playground — a major project of the Westport Rotary Club, in honor of its 100th anniversary.

Compo Beach playground peace pole. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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The new documentary short adaptation of “America’s Lost Band” — the story about The Remains, the legendary-but-never-quite-made-it band with Westporters Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs, who opened for the Beatles on their final US tour — is drawing plenty of attention.

Feature stories in the Boston Globe, Deadline Hollywood and Hartford Courant have praised the film, and shined a new light on the rock group.

Rock at Night called it a “priceless documentary.” It’s produced by longtime Remains fan — and 1971 Staples High School graduate — Fred Cantor.

Interested? Tonight (Monday, 9:30 p.m.) “America’s Lost Band” has its television premiere on CPTV.

Tomorrow (Tuesday), it begins streaming on PBS platforms, and YouTube.

Click here for more details, and streaming links.

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Speaking of music: On Friday, high school jazz ensembles from around Connecticut — and as far away as Montreal — performed in the Essentially Ellington Competition & Festival at Greenwich High School.

Of course, Staples was there.

And of course, conductor Kevin Mazzarella’s musicians sounded superb.

Bands performed from 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. Two hours were set aside for instrumental master classes, and a performance by the faculty ensemble.

Staples Jazz Ensemble, with conductor Kevin Mazzarella (far left). (Hat tip and photo/Michael Mossman)

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Just added to the Levitt Pavilion calendar: The Disco Biscuits’ 30th anniversary tour (June 28, 7 p.m.).

The Philadelphia group pioneered “Trance-Fusion” — bridging the gap between electronic dance music and jam rock.

Members pre-sale tickets are available today (Monday), at 10 a.m. Tickets for the general public begin Friday (April 11, 10 a.m.). Click here to order.

The Disco Biscuts

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Among the upcoming events sponsored by Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport (which, if you think of it, encompasses just about everyone in town):

Spring coffee (April 11, 10 a.m., Mrs. London’s Bakery). Email membership@neighborsandnewcomersofwestport.com for more information.

Book group (April 24): “Olga Dies Dreaming,” by Xochitl Gonzalez). Email pohal@aol.com for details.

Cooking group (April 23): Alice in Wonderland High Tea: Themed dishes like
“Eat Me” cookies, tea sandwiches, scones and imaginative pastries; appropriate dress optional. Email mia.goldman@yahoo.com for details.

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Is there any bird more interesting-looking than a barred owl?

We’ve highlighted a few before in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But we’re always up for another good shot of this unique species.

Cathy Malkin spotted this guy on Oakview Circle:

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … in honor of the Staples Jazz Ensemble’s appearance at the Essentially Ellington event (story above):

(Welcome to another week — and another week of “06880” Roundups. As always, we’ll bring you tons of information, and news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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