Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Staples Sports Controversy, Christmas Traditions, Chinese Chanukah …

Posted on December 17, 2024 | 10 comments

Kris Hrisovulos has quite a resumé as Staples High School boys tennis coach.

In 14 years at the helm, he has won 8 state championships and 5 FCIAC titles.

He was a 2022 finalist for National High School Tennis Coach of the year; the ’22 State Coach of the Year, and ’19 Sportsman of the Year. The winningest coach in Wreckers’ boys tennis history, he is also a Staples High School grad. As a member of the Class of 1999, Hrisovulos starred in both tennis and soccer.

He is respected and admired by generations of players and parents. Now, however, he is fighting a decision by the school to not rehire him.

According to a GoFundMe page for donations to his legal representation, he is also battling to “clear his name from unjust accusations” that led to the administrative decisin.

“The legal expenses to defend himself already amount to almost four times the stipend volunteer coaches like Kris get at the school for their priceless contribution to the community,” the GoFundMe page says.

It adds: “The school has failed to provide any details — including the results of a thorough investigation, or if one ever took place — and it is therefore unclear what information is public and can be shared at this point.

“What we do know is the strength of Coach Kris’ character, professionalism, and love for tennis education …. (T)he outpouring of support from players, parents, and residents speaks volumes about his record, his character and contributions to the Westport community.”

Athletic director VJ Sarullo declined an “06880” request for comment.

Staples boys tennis coach Kris Hrisovulos.

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Christmas is about as traditional as a holiday gets.

But every family’s tradition is different.

Some celebrate ham; some with the Feast of the 7 Fishes, or food from other lands.

Some entertain in a special manner. Others head off to a special spot.

Some open gifts in a certain way. Some open them not on Christmas morning.

Does your family have a Christmas tradition? “06880” wants to know. Email 06880blog@gmail.com. And if you’ve got photos — send them along too!

One tradition: serving Christmas dinner to Homes with Hope clients.

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Speaking of which: The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport invites everyone to a special meditative service in their Lyons Plains Road sanctuary this Friday (December 20, 7 to 8 p.m).

It is “a quiet, reflective time for those of us who need such space in the midst of so much activity.”

The UU church adds: “This time of year, with so many holidays and celebrations, can bring joy and excitement to many. At the same time, it can also bring up memories of friends and family who are gone; of the challenges in our lives we are facing; and of the long nights that bring on the winter blues. This time to come together will help to dispel these blues and bring light into our lives.”

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation also invites residents to the Christmas Eve service (December 24, 9 p.m.).

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Speaking yet again of Christmas: Chabad Lubavitch of Westport is hosting a “Chinese Chanukah Party” at 5:30 p.m. that day.

There’s a good reason for the date: It’s also the first night of Chanukah.

The event includes a menorah lighting, fire show, latkes and donuts — and of course (because this is Christmas) Chinese food. Click here for more information.

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Speaking still of the holidays: Westport’s winter fundraising drive — to send children from our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine to a camp in the mountains, a respite from a third winter of war — continues slowly.

Our goal of $56,000 would enable 200 boys and girls to enjoy time together, with teachers and therapists, at Karabin. The sports, crafts, games and movies — along with schoolwork — takes place in a setting far removed from their hometown, a few miles from the Russian front.

Right now, Lyman’s youngster have been evacuated. The therapeutic camp is a chance to enjoy normalcy, with friends and trusted adults.

It costs about $280 to send one child to Karabin, for 10 days.

How about it, Westport? Can we raise $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years? 

Just click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”

Students from Weston’s sister city of Siversk, at the Karabin camp. Westport is raising funds for children from Lyman, our sister city.

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Penfield Collective has closed its Sconset Square store.

The “highly edited collection of must-have apparel and accessories” opened in early 2023.

Penfield Collective is now closed. (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee meeting set for this Thursday (December 19) has been canceled.

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Jazz at the Post ends the year with a bang!

Guitarist Paul Bollenback headlines this Thursday’s shows (December 19, 7:30 and 8:45 p..; dinner from 7; VFW Post 399; tickets $20, veterans and students $15).

He’ll be joined by bassist Bill Moring, drummer Rudy Royston and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from behind the Senior Center. This sight never gets old:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1903, the Wright brothers made the first controlled powered, heavier-than-air flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

(As noted above, every family has its own holiday tradition. Here’s one all can embrace: a year-end gift in support of “06880.” Please click here to start it off. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, religion, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: WASA Dog Video, Orphs Alumni Caroling, Night Side Drones …

Posted on December 16, 2024 | 14 comments

Westport Animal Shelter Advocates is one of our town’s hardest working, most effective nonprofits.

Their primary focus is attending to the needs of impounded dogs at Westport Animal Control. WASA provides funds for vet care, exercise and training.

They perform home and reference checks, to ensure the canines are placed safely in loving homes.

WASA runs a small fostering network for homeless dogs from other Connecticut animal control facilities, or that come from Fairfield County residents and must be rehomed.

WASA also assists pet owners who struggle financially to provide vet care and adequate nutrition for their pets.

Whether you’re a dog owner, dog lover, or stay far from Winslow Park and off-season Compo Beach, WASA’s year-end video is well worth watching.

It was produced by Staples High School Class of 2021 graduate Brandon Malin. He began volunteering with WASA at age 7, and has been a great fantastic friend to them (and their dogs) ever since.

Brandon is also an exceptionally talented photographer and videographer.

WASA notes: “We ‘stay in business’ because of the support we receive from Westport residents, businesses, and town departments. We are not subsidized by the town of Westport.”

Click here to support WASA. Click below to see Brandon’s great WASA ’24 video.

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Attention, Staples Orphenians alumni — and everyone else who loves our high school’s elite a cappella group!

An “Orphs Alumni” Christmas caroling event is set for downtown Westport, this Friday (December 20, 3 to 4 p.m.).

Singers will meet at the Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church parking lot.

Orphs: Bring your voices. You’ll have a great time.

Downtown shoppers: Bring your ears. You’re in for a treat.

In 1980, George Weigle led these Orphenians on a downtown Christmastime caroling stroll. Will some alumni from this group — now 60 years old — be back on Main Street on Friday?

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Speaking of the Staples Music Department: With musicians and audience members still on a high after this weekend’s Candlelight Concert (and everyone else kicking themselves for not getting tickets), here’s one more look at the 84th annual gift to the town.

Kevin Mazzarella is in his first year as band director at the high school. But it’s clear from the photo below — as he leads the symphonic band, symphonic orchestra and choral ensembles (including dozens of alumni) in Saturday’s rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — that he’s as excited by Candlelight as everyone else from the past 8 decades.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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For a while, strange drones have been spotted over New Jersey.

Now there are reports that they’re hovering above other Northeast states.

Richard Fogel spotted this in the Westport sky, around 8:50 p.m. Saturday night.

Is it a drone? A plane? An Unidentified Anomolous Phenomenon (previously known as “UFO”)?

Click “Comments” below. But please: No tin hats!

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Speaking of strange sights: Our “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

But we never expected to see this sight, from deep in the heart of Texas (Plano):

Ellen Wentworth’s cousin spotted it, and sent it to her.

Yee haw!

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With its winter semester near, Westport Library’s Verso University has announced 8 new courses. They are:

Poet of Wonder: Robert Frost (January 8, 15, 22; 10:30 a.m. to noon). Explore Frost’s work with Westport poet laureate Donna Disch in a 3-part seminar. Delve into all that is “lovely, dark and deep.” Each session will focus on a different selection.

Suspicious Papers: A Vintage Ephemera Collage Workshop Series (January 8, 15, 22; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Artist and ephemera dealer Alesia DiFederico explores mixed media collage using authentic bits of history, inks, paints, and imagination. Creating art is for everyone; the joy is in the do

Exploring Wines of Italy (January: 9, 16, 23, 30; 3 to 4 p.m.). Sommelier Barbie Messa leads a wine tasting class that dives deeply into Italy’s rich traditions.

 Storytelling for TV and Film (January 9, 16, and 23; 6 to 7:30 p.m.). Scriptwriter Gigi Rios New helps explore the fundamentals of storytelling for the small and big screens, plus script formatting techniques.

Leadership Literacy (February 5, 12, 19, 26; 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.). Harvard leadership scholar Barbara Kellerman focuses on studying literature about concepts of power, authority and influence.

 Tarot 101: A Journey to Self-Discovery (February 5, 12, 19, 26; 2 to 3 p.m.). Author, astrologer, and tarot expert Maria Sofia Marmanides teaches the 78 cards of tarot.

Write, Craft, Create: A Wellness Practice in Making Handmade Cards
(March: 5, 12, 19; 1 to 2 p.m.). Instructor Kerstin Rao, the Westport artist behind Vivid Cottage, provides a safe space for participants to tap into their feelings and craft earnest messages.

Introduction to Ikebana (March: 13, 20 & 27; 10 a.m. to noon). Sogetsu Ikebana is a modern form of the ancient art of Japanese flower arranging, using living materials. Shizue Pleasanton teaches the aesthetic discipline and traditional principles of the form.

For information on Verso University courses, including registration, click here.

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First, an owl was affixed to the Westport police station tower.

Now an eagle has joined them.

Okay, it’s not a real one. But it still qualifies for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the newest addition to the police station tower (story above):

(When we figure out Westport drone mystery, you’ll read about it first on “06880” — just like you do so often, on so many topics. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Environment, Library, Staples HS, Totally random

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Pics Of The Day #2797

Posted on December 15, 2024 | Comments Off on Pics Of The Day #2797

Behind the scenes before the show, at yesterday’s Staples High School Candlelight Concert:

(All photos/Dan Woog)

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Dost Thou Remember …

Posted on December 15, 2024 | 6 comments

This weekend’s Candlelight Concert was traditional, rousing, haunting, majestic, brassy and inspiring.

It always is.

Arriving for the show. 

For 84 years, the Staples High School Music Department has offered this gift to the town.

A variety of choirs, orchestras and bands perform. Their selections are well-known and obscure. They are classical and contemporary; American, European and African.

It takes a tremendous amount of practice, preparation and care, by hundreds of talented musicians, their committed and caring teachers, and many others who work hard behind the scenes.

Volunteers festoon the lobby with festive touches.

From the unique “Sing We Noel” processional to the alumni-filled “Hallelujah Chorus,” the Candlelight Concert is Westport’s way of celebrating the season.

Not everyone could get tickets to the 3 shows. But today, thanks to Lynn Untermeyer Miller’s brilliant photography, we all can bask in its glow.

As she has for decades, Alice Addicks greets concert-goers. 

Lauren Pine rehearses her choir an hour before showtime.

The audience settles in.

“Sing We Noel” processional.

Orchestra director Jeri Brima.

Ludovit Pauliny takes a bow, after soloing on “Danse Bacchanale.”

One part of the lighter “Wreck the Halls” …

… and another.

From left: Band director Kevin Mazzarella (in his Candlelight debut), orchestra directors Carrie Mascaro and Jen Brima, and assistant band director Caitlin Serpliss acknowledge applause. 

(All photos/copyright Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Posted in Arts, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Candlelight Concert, Leslye Headland, Board of Ed …

Posted on December 14, 2024 | 8 comments

For the 84th year in a row, the Staples High School Music Department presented its gift to the town: the Candlelight Concert.

Performances continue today, at 3 and 8 p.m. All tickets were already claimed, weeks ago.

Tomorrow’s “06880” will offer a full photographic portrait of the very special event. Here is one scene, from early last night:

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

 

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New York Times chief theater critic Jesse Green gave a rave review to “Cult of Love,” the new show that opened Thursday at the Helen Hayes Theater.

He likes the “rip-roaring home-for-the-holidays dramedy” for its plot, direction, music and more.

He also praises playwright Leslye Headland. This is the 1999 Staples High School graduate’s Broadway debut. But she’s earned kudos before, as a playwright, screenwriter and director (“Bachelorette,” “Sleeping With Other People,” “Russian Doll,” “The Acolyte”).

“Cult of Love” is Headland’s final work in a series called “Seven Deadly Plays.” Inspired by the 7 deadly sins, this one is about pride. It was first staged in Los Angeles in 2018.

The play focuses on 4 adult children of one family and their partners, coming home for a contentious holiday gathering.

Green writes: “Though ‘Cult of Love,’ like many unhappy family reunion plays, draws big buckets of humor from the toxic brew of religion and repression, those buckets also draw blood.

“Headland knows just how to get there, suggesting deep familiarity with the territory. But she also has a gift for complication and construction, as was already evident in “Bachelorette,” her Bridezillas Gone Wild breakthrough play of 2010…. Loading pattern on pattern — a holiday-season design don’t for most — is for her an opportunity to dizzy us down to hell.”

Click here for the full Times review. Click here for more information about “Cult of Love.” (Hat tip: Tommy Greenwald)

Leslye Headland

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This is a very busy time of year.

But if you still need something to do, check out this calendar (courtesy of Westport’s Department of Human Services):

Today (Saturday, December 14, 1 to 3:30 p.m.): Gingerbread Cookie Decorating,  Westport Museum for History & Culture ($15 per pair)

Today and tomorrow (December 14-15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Westport Police and PAL toy drive at ASF, Awesome Toys and The Toy Post

December 17 (3 to 5 p.m.): Ornament Making, Westport Museum for History & Culture ($5 entry includes hot cocoa and all materials for group of 2)

December 18, 19, 20, 21 (7 p.m.): “Together at the Table”: Family dinner and “A Sherlock Carol,” Westport Country Playhouse

December 19 (4:30 p.m.): Lighthouse and Holiday Movie Night, Toquet Hall

December 19 (1:15 p.m.): Play With Your Food table reading, Westport Senior Center

December 19 (2:30 p.m.): The Jazz Rabbi, with guitarist Paul Bollenback, Westport Senior Center

December 20 (7 p.m.): “The Nightmare Before Christmas” drop-by movie night, Toquet Hall

December 20, 21, 22: 1940s Christmas by Candlelight Tours of the Coley House; $25 advanced tickets required; click here

December 27 (5 to 11 p.m.): Alumni Night, Toquet Hall (free)

Toquet Hall is one of many places with activities this month.

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The Board of Education’s Policy Committee meets Wednesday (December 18, 9 a.m., Town Hall Room 307), with a wide-ranging agenda.

They’ll discuss the first reading of possible revisions to graduation requirements; admission to the Westport Public Schools at or before age 5 and assignment to grade levels; and student attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism.

The committee will also discuss health concerns “such as lice,” and a possible new civility policy.

meanwhile, the Long Lots School Building Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday has been postponed to Wednesday (December 18, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 307/309. The agenda has not yet been posted.


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Speaking of schools: All month long, Kings Highway Elementary School students have collected gifts for their annual Holiday Bear drive.

Each year, the Connecticut Education Foundation’s Holiday Bear provides gifts for children whose families face financial or other hardships.

The KHS Caring Council helped package 25 Holiday Bear bags.

Meanwhile, yesterday the school helped raise funds for Connecticut Children’s Hospital.

Students also wore pajamas as part of a statewide spirit day.

It’s been an eventful month for Kings Highway!

A few of Kings Highway’s many holiday bags.

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John McKinney is the newest member of the Connecticut Mirror’s board of directors.

The Mirror is state’s non-profit, non-partisan, digital source for public policy, government and politcal news.

McKinney — a descendant of Westport’s famed Bedford family — is also a trustee of the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

The former State Senate minority leader and a Republican candidate for governor, he was appointed by Governor Ned Lamont to the Liquor Control Commission in 2021.

McKinney serves on the advisory board of Operation Hope, a homeless shelter in Fairfield. He and his family help provide housing and care for people with AIDS through the Stewart B. McKinney Foundation. It is named for his father, the longtime US Congressman from Westport’s district.

John McKinney

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The quiet geometry of a Compo Beach low tide highlights today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … on this date in 1819,  Alabama became the 22nd US state.

(Whether you’re here in Westport, way down in Alabama, or anywhere else, “06880” is your hyper-local source for news, events and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Unsung Heroes #362

Posted on December 11, 2024 | 7 comments

Lynn Untermeyer Miller hasn’t seen every Candlelight Concert.

There have been 84 years of them. The Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate is only 71 years old.

But she’s been to plenty, beginning with her years as a student.

She’ll be there again this week, for the Staples Music Department’s annual gift to the town.

She’ll be joined by hundreds of other grateful Westporters. Parents will proudly watch their teenage singers, and orchestra and band members, as they perform complex pieces with talent, passion and pride.

A small part of the large Candlelight Concert. 

Westporters whose own kid have long graduated — or never went to Staples, or are not yet there — will thrill to the concert too, appreciating the mix of tradition and change that has sustained the Candlelight Concert for over 8 decades.

Middle and elementary school boys and girls will dream of the day they can take part in the remarkable event.

And alumni will stride, with excitement and smiles, onto the stage for the finale: a rousing rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” The massed group — a couple of hundred current musicians, and dozens who preceded them — is part of what makes the Candlelight Concert so special.

The “Hallelujah Chorus” ends the Candlelight Concert. The “Sing We Noel” processional begins it. (Photos/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

But none of it would happen without this week’s Unsung Heroes: the Music Department.

The staff — Jeri Brima, Carrie Mascaro, Kevin Mazzarella, Lauren Pine, Caitlin Serpliss and Gregg Winters, plus townwide music coordinator Steve Zimmerman and administrative assistant Liz Shaffer — have been working toward this moment since the summer.

They have great talent to work with. Our superb middle and elementary school music teachers deserve a great hand, for preparing the high schoolers so well.

John Ohanian created the first Candlelight Concert, in 1940.

No list of Unsung Heroes would be complete without the men and women who created, nurtured and grew the Candlelight Concert, from before World War II to today.

John Ohanian, George Weigle, John Hanulik, Bob Genualdi, Jack Adams, Nick Mariconda, Alice Lipson, Luke Rosenberg, and many other music educators, are the reason Candlelight has evolved, flourished — and made the holidays special — for over 80 years.

They, and everyone else associated with the Candlelight Concert, are true Unsung Heroes.

Take a bow!

ENCORE: One of the great Candlelight traditions is the “Sing We Noel” processional. Click here to learn about its unique back story.

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Looking back, Staples HS, Unsung Heroes

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Roundup: CNN’s Alisyn Camerota, WFD’s Santa Run, UNC’s Marisa Shorrock …

Posted on December 10, 2024 | 11 comments

Alison Camerota surprised her many fans Sunday — first on Instagram, then on the air — by announcing it was her last day with CNN.

After 10 years with the network, the Westport resident signed off with a smile.

Alisyn Camerota’s Instagram post.

She recalled interviewing “presidents and heroes and extraordinary people (in) peak career experiences that I had dreamed of since I was a teenager.”

She thanked her colleagues and her viewers, and encouraged them to follow her on Instagram (@alisyncamerota) for updates on what’s ahead.

In a social media post minutes later, she said: “I’m on to new horizons. I’ll just share this bit of wisdom. New horizons are great when you’re ready for them. There have been times in my life when I was not ready to leave a place that I loved and that was really sad and really hard. But I think am ready to leave this place that I’ve loved.”

Before joining CNN in 2014 — where she was a co-anchor on “New Day,” “CNN Newsroom,” “CNN Tonight” and, most recently, “CNN Newsroom” — Camerota worked at Fox News.

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The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation “Santa Run” is one of Westport’s most cherished traditions.

(Spots are limited. IYKYK).

For a donation to the Firefighters Foundation, Santa arrives by fire truck to drop off a present at a (limited number of) children’s houses.

Kids, stop reading here! The gift is dropped off at the firehouse previously, by the parents.

This weekend, for the third year in a row, Staples High School’s Service League of Boys (SLOBs) joined the firefighters.

They helped the little ones spread joy, fend off the Grinch, and make the holidays special.

Pausing for a photo opp, at the annual Santa Run.

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Westport has another NCAA Division I national champion.

Marissa Shorrock is a goalkeeper on the University of North Carolina women’s soccer squad. The Tar Heels won their 23rd championship last night in Cary, North Carolina. They defeated Wake Forest University 1-0.

The 2020 Staples graduate was not in the nets (teammate Clare Gagne was named the tournaments Most Outstanding Defensive Player). But she’s got her championship ring.

At Staples, her 14 shutouts as a senior helped her team to a 19-1-2 season. She also played 4 years of varsity lacrosse and basketball, helping the hoopsters to the state semifinal.

Shorrock walked onto the Bowdoin College soccer, basketball and lacrosse teams, before seasons were canceled due to COVID. She transferred to Yale University, appearing in 22 games over 3 years at Yale after walking-on midseason in 2021. She started 20 matches. Shorrock helped the Bulldogs break the program’s consecutive shutout record, and tie the record for shutouts in a season in 2022.

After graduating with a degree in economics from Yale last spring, Shorrock transfered to UNC with one more year of eligibility. (Hat tip: Don Kubie)

 

Marisa Shorrock, with the national championship trophy, and her new cap. (Photo courtesy of David Shorrock)

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WEST boutique hosts a special “Sip & Shop” event this Thursday (December 12, 6 to 8 p.m., 117 Post Road East).

20% of all purchases, and 20% of the proceeds, go to Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, the great arts non-profit for underserved youngsters.

One Hope Winery and The Granola Bar will be on hand too.

WEST boutique. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Yogi Bear stopped by the Westport Police Department/Westport PAL  toy drive this past weekend.

He donated to the great cause, and thanked the officers for all they do.

The toy drive continues this coming weekend. New, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash to buy toys — will be collected at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East) Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.

Yogi Bear and friends, at the Police Department’s toy drive collection spot: Athletic Shoe Factory. (Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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Birchwood County Club is usually about golf, tennis, swimming and dining.

This weekend, they added gingerbread house decorating to the list.

150 youngsters, along with parents and grandparents, gathered for the annual holiday brunch, and creative fun.

Gingerbread house decorators, hard at work. (Photo/John Schmidlin)

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The Y’s Women had 2 special guests yesterday.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker talked about issues on many residents’ minds. She reported that while Post Road traffic remains a big problem, many stop signs and sidewalks have been added all around town.

Parking is still a work in progress.

The 1st selectwoman also discussed Longshore improvements (more pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf clubhouse, a pool upgrade), and Long Lots Elementary School construction (expected to begin this spring, with completion in 2027).

After Tooker’s talk, Y’s Women enjoyed a holiday concert by Staples’ elite Orphenians a cappella group, in the acoustically wonderful Green’s Farms Church.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (center), with Y’s Women president Vera DeStefano and vice president Catherin Albin.

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Congratulations to Staples’ December Students of the Month.

Seniors Olivia Berg and William Vanamee, junior Madeline Leventhal, sophomore Nathaniel Maurillo and freshmen Gabriella Juliano and Kai Massicott were nominated by their teachers.

They make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers, and are, principal Stafford Thomas says, “the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together.”

From left: Kai Massicott, Gabriella Juliano, Olivia Berg, Madeline Leventhal,  Nathaniel Maurillo, William Vanamee.

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Michael Mossman has done it all.

After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, the trumpeter forged a brilliant career as a soloist, arranger, music director and educator.

This Thursday he brings his talents to Jazz at the Post (December 12, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service from 7; $20 tickets, $15 for veterans and students).

Mossman willk be joined by pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows what Michele Sorensen says was left untouched after bulldozers renovated Riverside Park:

(Photo/Michele Sorensen)

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And finally … on this date in 1817, Mississippi became the 20th US state.

(“06880” is your hyper-local source of news you can use. If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Media, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Weston Fire, Staples Football, Westport Soccer …

Posted on December 9, 2024 | 10 comments

The Thanksgiving Day fire just over the border in Weston destroyed one family’s home. It disrupted the holiday for their 26 guests — and for dozens of firefighters and other first responders from several towns.

Carmine Cenatiempo did not battle the blaze. But he deserves a shout-out nonetheless. Weston Emergency Medical Technician Ben Frimmer writes:

“Our crew was on scene for over 16 hours. When an event like that happens, we feed our teams in the field.

“It’s challenging to find food at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving. Curtis Gunn called Carmine (who owns Calise’s Market in Westport.

“Within an hour and a half, he had left his own Thanksgiving meal, cooked and delivered food to feed the team. I was quite impressed with his selflessness.”

Carmine Cenatiempo, at his deli.

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Both Staples High School football games this year this year against Greenwich were shutouts.

Each team won one of them.

Unfortunately for the Wreckers, the Cardinals’ victory came yesterday, 14-0 in the semifinals of the state “LL” (extra large schools) tournament. 

It was revenge for the visitors, who were trounced 27-0 at the same Paul Lane Field on Thanksgiving Day.

Staples — ranked second in the state tourney ends the season 10-2. Greenwich, seeded #3, advanced to the title game against #5 West Haven. The game is set for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, at Central Connecticut State College.

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Speaking of sports: There was a reunion of sorts in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Staples graduates Lau ten Cate and Dylan Hoke were on opposing teams — for Amherst and Connecticut College, respectively — in the championhship match of the NCAA Division III men’s soccer tournament.

After scoreless sregulation and overtime, Amherst won 4-3 on penalty kicks.

Ten Cate — who played for Beachside’s MLS Next academy team during his high school years — has been injured this year, and did not play in the final. Hoke, a former Wrecker and Beachside athlete, played 93 minutes. He had an excellent freshman season for the Camels.

Lau ten Cate (left) and Dylan Hoke

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Every Sunday since Hamas invaded Israel on October 7, 2023, a group of residents has marched through town. They remind passersby of the need to bring the hostages home.

Yesterday, Jennifer Wolff reports, they were joined by a special guest: Santa Claus.

The Big Guy even chanted: “Bring them home now!”

Santa Claus, with yesterday’s Run4TheirLives marchers.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is even more intriguing than usual.

Can you come up with a clever caption? Email 06880blog@gmail.com!

(Photo/Pat Weist)

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And finally … on this date in 1851, the first YMCA was established n North America. It opened in Montreal.

(Sports, politics, heroes — they’re here today, and every day, at “06880.” If you appreciate our hyper-local coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Tree Lighting, Holiday Giving, Wreath Sale …

Posted on December 6, 2024 | 4 comments

With a countdown by little kids (and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker), some blasts from the Westport Fire Department’s trucks, and the flick of a switch, the Town Hall holiday tree was officially lit yesterday.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and her helpers.

The Staples High School Orphenians provided music. The Westport Museum for History & Culture added hot chocolate.

Choral director Lauren Pine leads the Staples Orphenians.

The ceremony was quick, fun — and cold.

The tree will shine brightly, throughout New Year’s.

The tree — and the fire trucks that salute it. (All photos/Dan Woog)

At the start of the ceremony, Westport poet laureate Donna Disch offered this special poem, called “Lights Up”:

We spar with darkness in December.
The day’s light fed and put to bed by four.
We resist with hymns and gingerbread,
wreathes and songs, Dancer, Prancer,
Cupid, Vixen and that soul who steers the sleigh.
Tonight we gather to sing and illuminate our living tree.
No chainsaw teeth, for us, nothing felled, hoisted or hauled.
We affirm the ever of living and green and spatter our spruce with stars.
And so our noble tree reminds us to trust the truth we know.
There is living. And there is loving.
And there is no more light than that.

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The Westport Human Services Department’s annual Holiday Giving Program is in full swing.

And it’s important.

The department is seeing more families in need. Parents are dealing with unemployment, underemployment, rising costs, and other stresses.

With multiple jobs and tight budgets, there is little or no money left over for gifts.

100% of donations go directly to families in need.

Click here for the  “Family to Family Seasonal Holiday Giving Program,” or mail a check to Department of Human Services, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Westport residents facing financial difficulties can contact Human Services for free, confidential consultation and assistance. Call 203-341-1050, or humansrv@westportct.gov.

Questions? Contact Annette D’Augelli: adaugelli@westportct.gov; 203-341-1183.

A little gift goes a long way.

Westporters will be out in force this weekend, buying Christmas trees and gifts.

But don’t forget holiday wreaths!

Scout Troop 36 is selling wreaths Saturday (December 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Sunday (December 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

Wreaths are $30 and $45. Baked goods are also available.

Funds will help projects like the installation of Eastern bluebird houses and bat boxes at Earthplace. The troop also partners with Sustainable Westport each year, for a mattress recycling drive.

Troop 36 Scouts, and a few of their wreaths.

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As the story above shows, Westporters help neighbors.

They also help strangers — who have become friends — thousands of miles away.

Luca Caniato is a senior at Staples High School, and president of Il Circolo Italiano (the Italian Club). He writes:

“For many children in Rione Sanità, Naples, the holiday season doesn’t come with the joy and celebration it should. This year, we have the opportunity to bring a little extra Christmas magic into their lives.

“Centro La Tenda, a beacon of hope in this community, provides a safe haven for these children, offering them education, support, and the chance to dream beyond their circumstances. With your help, we’re raising funds to buy Christmas gifts for these children. It’s a simple but meaningful way to spread holiday cheer and show them they are cared for.

“Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward purchasing gifts that will bring smiles and joy to these kids.

“Let’s come together to create a Christmas full of hope, happiness and community for the children of Centro La Tenda. Thank you for your generosity, and for helping make the holidays a little brighter for those who need it most!”

Click here to donate.

Children at Centro La Tenda, in Naples.

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You may be tired of hearing “Jingle Bells” (and/or “Jingle Bell Rock”) everywhere you turn.

But the Westport Weston Family Y’MCA’s Jingle Bells Jamboree is well worth checking out.

The Saturday, December 14 family event (5:30 to 7 p.m.) includes ornament decorating, face painting, a bouncy house, and a bus ride/light show to the “North Pole” (Mahackeno Outdoor Center).

Once at Beck Lodge, children will meet Santa, explore his holiday workshop, enjoy free hot cocoa and snacks, and create a special ornament for display in the Y lobby.

A pizza truck will be on-site, serving food.

Tickets for the Jingle Bells Jamboree are $10 for Y members, $20 for non-members (admission is for children only; adults go free). Parents are required to accompany their children. Click here to purchase.

Jingle Bell Jamboree, at the Y.

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The curtain rises tonight on the Bedford Acting Group’s production of “Shrek: The Musical.”

The young actors and tech crew have worked hard on their comedic timing, beloved music, fun costumes, great puppetry and spectacular sets (with help from a “Saturday Night Live” designer).

the beloved fairytale to life with stunning performances, hilarious comedic timing, and unforgettable music.

Shows are tonight (Friday, 7 p.m.); tomorrow (Saturday, 3 and 7 p.m.), and Sunday (3 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and cast lists.

Bedford actors (from left): Maya Greenblatt, Beya Altman, Dylan Post, Genevive Watras,  Maya Steigler, Olivia Wollowick.

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Ed Simek writes: “My was driving yesterday, when suddenly her ‘low tire pressure’ light went on.

“She drove to Fetzer Tire to have it checked out. The first question they asked was, ‘Have you been near Staples today?’

“We live next to the high school, so the answer was yes. Fetzer said that 7 cars pulled in already, with the same problem.

“Apparently a truck near the school spilled a box of 3-inch drywall screws all over the road.

“The guy at Fetzer pulled a screw out of our tire. One woman had 5 screws in her tires.

“I guess there’s not much we can do about it, except warn people. I’m sure there are still many screws lying in the road.”

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Johanna Keyser Rossi could not tell what kind of bird this was. It took off too quickly.

But it’s a good candidate for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. If you know the name, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the YMCA’s Jingle Bell Jamboree (story above), here is the song you hoped I wouldn’t post.

Fortunately, it’s not the ubiquitous Bobby Helms version. This is one you may not have heard.

Plus, it’s not the song you always hear from this group, either. Party on!

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for everything Westport-related. If you enjoy learning about our community — and don’t mind the occasional song like this — please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Sister Cities’ Goal, Saturday’s Stroll, Wreckers Roll …

Posted on December 4, 2024 | 1 comment

Nearly 80 years ago, Westport’s sister city relationship with Marigny, France began with Christmas gifts.

Westporters donated, then shipped dozens of presents, for youngsters in the Normandy town that was just beginning to recover from World War II.

The tradition continued for years. The boys and girls who received those gifts — now in their 80s — have never forgotten Westport’s generosity.

Now Marigny is paying it forward. For the second year in a row, they have collected, and shipped, Christmas gifts for children in Lyman, Ukraine. That’s the sister city that Marigny and Westport now share.

They’ll add others — a total of 500 — for other youngsters in Kharkiv and surrounding towns, which like Lyman have been devastated by Russia’s invasion.

Gifts galore, in Marigny.

This Saturday, Marigny residents are invited to a “symbolic send-off ceremony” of the presents.

Donors, partners and friends of the Westport-Marigny-Le-Lozon-Lyman Association, and the Rotary Clubs of the Manche region, will be there. They’ve been working on this project all year long.

The ceremony takes place in one of the central squares in the village: “Place Westport.”

Meanwhile, don’t forget: Westport is helping Lyman this holiday season too.

We’re raising $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years. That will pay for them — scattered now, as they have been evacuated from their homes — to get together, with friends, teachers and counselors, at a therapeutic camp in the Carpathian Mountains.

To help, please click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”

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Ho ho ho!

Look who’s promoting this Saturday’s “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.

Click below to see. Then click here for full details on the festive, family-friendly event.

See you on Main Street, from 5 to 7 p.m.!

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The Staples High School football team rolled to a 42-6 victory over Manchester  last night, in the quarterfinals of the state Class “LL” (extra large schools) tournament.

There #2-ranked Wreckers move on to the semifinals on Sunday. They’ll face #3 Greenwich at 12:30 p.m. That contest, like yesterday’s, will be played at home.

The Cardinals are familiar with Paul Lane Field. Just lat week, on Thanksgiving Day, the Westporters trounced them, 27-0.

The No. 2 Staples football team put together a dominant effort in the state Class LL quarterfinals Tuesday, clobbering No. 7 Manchester 42-6.

Quarterback Neil Weil (9 of 18 completions for 155 yards; 3 touchdowns), Shane Sandrew (2 touchdowns), Anthony Armentano (2 TDs) and Nathan Smith (1 TD) keyed the decisive win.

Nathan Smith, in action against Greenwich last week. (Photo/Douglas Healey)

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Last night, Westport’s Town Representative Meeting celebrated its 75th anniversary with speeches, cake, and a commemorative booklet.

But the legislative body is also looking forward.

Their page on the town website has been updated. Gone is the dull, bureaucratic look. It’s now livelier — at least, in the confines of what a municipal website should look like. (Click here to see.)

A header shows members marching proudly (and non-partisanly) in the Memorial Day. Photos liven up the links, to pages like FAQs, Members, District Map and Minutes.

There’s even a link to that new 75th anniversary brochure.

Screenshot of the new town website RTM page.

PS: Planning way ahead: The RTM invites all Westporters to a “Community Conversation,” with members.

Mark the date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Westport Library.

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Also last night: A large crowd celebrated the release of Alison Milwe Grace’s new book, “Savor: Recipes to Celebrate,” last night at Wakeman Town Farm.

The energetic, talented owner of AMG Catering & Events greeted her fans and friends. She answered questions from her aunt, longtime Westporter Liz Milwe.

And, of course, she made sure her guests were well fed.

Alison Milwe Grace, her book and her chacuterie. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Easton Road was closed in both directions between Bayberry Lane and Sturges Highway this morning.

A large tree fell on a pickup truck, blocking both lanes. The driver was hospitalized.

A state crew was on the scene, cleaning debris.

(Hat tip and photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Holiday Festival this Sunday (December 8, 1 to 4 p.m.) will benefit the Survive-Oars, the great program that helps breast cancer survivors heal and find community on and off the water.

The afternoon features live music, mulled wine, spiked warm cider, fire pits, s’mores, a raw bar, charcuterie, hot cocoa, dunkable grilled cheese and tomato soup, and a cash bar.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there (1 to 2:30 p.m.).

Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Al’s Angels.

Tickets are $50 (tax-deductible) — and kids are free. Click here for tickets.

Saugatuck Survive-Oars

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Also this Sunday: The Saugatuck Congregational Church’s Winter Choral Concert (December 8, 7 p.m.)

Two favorite groups — the Staples Orphenians and Dartmouth Brovertones — perform classic pop tunes, and Christmas favorites. Admission is free.

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“Broadway’s Bad Boys” invade the Westport Country Playhouse next month, for 5 performances (January 23-26).

They’ll showcase many of the good songs that villains sing. There’s “Phantom of the Opera,” “Beauty and the Beast,” even a little Harold Hill.

Click here for dates, tickets and more information.

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The plantings up and down Soundview Drive — courtesy of the Compo Beach Improvement Association — delight beachgoers every spring and summer.

But they have a special beauty now, as winter nears. Celia Campbell-Mohn captured their late-fall look, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … on this day in 1956, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash recorded together at the Sun Record Studios in Memphis. It was the only time the “Million Dollar Quartet” played together, and was entirely unplanned.

(We’re not asking for a million dollars [though we wouldn’t turn it down.] But we hope you appreciate “06880” enough to toss a few coins, or whatever feels right, our way. Just click here — thanks!)

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Posted in Downtown, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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