Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Tree Lighting, Tulips, Earthplace Thanksgiving …

Posted on November 26, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Tree Lighting, Tulips, Earthplace Thanksgiving …

Westport’s annual holiday tree lighting takes place at Town Hall on Thursday, December 5 (5 p.m.).

The Staples High School Orphenians will perform, and the Westport Museum for History & Culture will provide hot chocolate. All are invited!

The Town Hall tree. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Andrew Colabella reports: “Over the last 2 years, a group of volunteers from the Representative Town Meeting planted 500 tulips. Most were at the Minute Man monument.

“In late spring, a landscaper mistook the stems there for weeds. Parks & Recreation Department parks superintendent Michael West was upset, and wanted to make up for it.”

Colabella requested 500 tulip bulbs as replacements. West, and Parks & Rec’s Jamie Boone and Rick Giunta, surprised him with 1,500.

The other day,Colabella and several fellow RTM members planted the bulbs at the Minute Man, and other spots in town like the Compo Beach entrance and Compo cemetery.

In addition, each RTM member who planted tulips took bulbs to plant in a public spot of their choice — without telling the others where it is.

We won’t see the results of their work until spring. But it will be fun to discover, and beautiful to see.

Planting tulips at the Minute Man monument. Front row (from left): Nancy Kail, Kristin Mott Purcell. Rear: Melissa Levy, Andrew Colabella, Don O’Day.

Planting bulbs at Compo Beach. RTM members Claudia Shaum and Julie Whamond flank Parks & Recreation Commission chair David Floyd.

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Looking for non-shopping activities over Thanksgiving? Got relatives from out of town, who want to do something Westport-special?

Earthplace is your place.

Their Story and Animal program, Birds of Prey feeding, “Saturdays at Earthplace” and Winged Wonders program are all intriguing. And Earthplace trails and 62-acre sanctuary are open to the public, from dawn to dusk.

The Story and Animal program (Monday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m.; age 5 and under) includes an animal-themed story, and an “encounter” with an Animal Hall resident.

Birds of Prey Feeding (daily, 11 a.m.; all ages), includes information about birds’ eating habits and behaviors.

Saturdays at Earthplace (November 30, noon; all ages; parent or caregiver must be present) is a nature-based arts and crafts activity.

Winged Wonders (December 1, 1 p.m.) is a bird-on-glove demonstration, to learn about raptors. This Sunday features Earthplace’s barred owl, Moody.

Also, starting Sunday, Earthplace participates in Westport Moms’ first-ever Elf Scavenger Hunt The “Earthplace Elf” will hide somewhere indoors, for one week. Spot it between December 1 and 8, and win a prize.

For more information on Earthplace and its programs, click here.

An Earthplace Winged Wonders demonstration.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee meets tonight (Tuesday, November 26, 6 p.m., Town Hall, Room 201/201A).

The agenda includes a project update; work session to review progress on schematic plans, and public comment.

Long Lots School Building Committee, in a meeting last year.

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As part of the Cross Highway Traffic Improvement project between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane, the Cross Highway bridge over Deadman Brook is proposed to be replaced with a new bridge.

The existing bridge is in bad shape, and cannot be modified to include the new sidewalk proposed for the corridor.

Construction is proposed for 2025. The goal is to replace the bridge during the summer, when school is not in session.

The town has submitted applications to the Flood & Erosion Control Board, Conservation Commission and Planning & Zoning Commission for an 8-24.

Meetings of those groups are December 4, 11 and 16, respectively. Meeting materials are or will be available on the town’s website for each board.

Questions? Contact town engineer Keith Wilberg: kwilberg@westportct.gov; 203-341-1128.

Cross Highway bridge over Deadman Brook.

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Achtung!

Staples High School German students did more than just showcase their skills and knowledge at the recent University of Connecticut German Quiz Bowl, competing against other high school German programs.

They finished Nummer Eins — Number One!

In addition to the competition, students participated in workshops. They also learned about job prospects with over 150 German companies operating in Connecticut. (Since 2019, Germany has been Connecticut’s number one business partner.)

Staples German students, at the University of Connecticut.

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Speaking of school: Last week, Greens Farms Academy broke ground for it new Athletics and Wellness Center.

The 30,000-square foot facility — set to open in the spring of 2026 — will
include 2 full-size basketball courts, 2 wrestling rooms, 2 squash courts with viewing galleries, a fitness center and training room.

It follows the expansion of Lower School facilities, including a new dining and student commons and a renovated assembly room, which opened last year.

The projects are funded through GFA’s Centennial Campaign, which will officially launch next fall 2025 as the school nears its 100th anniversary.

A model of Greens Farms Academy’s Athletics & Wellness Center.

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Jazz at the Post celebrates Thanksgiving a day early.

This year’s weekly musical treat is tomorrow (Wednesday, November 27; VFW Post 399), instead of the traditional Thursday.

Bassist Fima Ephrom headlines. He’s joined by his First Light Band: guitarists Idan Morim and Tim Jago, keyboardist William Evans, drummer Ben Silashi and saxophonist Greg Wall.

Dinner service begins at 7 p.m. Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Tickets are $20; $15 for veterans and students. Click here to purchase.

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As Thanksgiving nears, Tammy Barry is grateful for an “extended autumn.” She spotted these “Westport … Naturally” beauties on Owenoke.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … Tina Turner was born on this date, in 1939. After a dynamic musical career, first with her husband Ike and then as a solo artist, she died last year, at 83.

 

(It’s hard to keep up with everything in town. But “06880” tries. If you like what we do, please support us with a contribution. Click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Elf, Art, SLOBs …

Posted on November 24, 2024 | 5 comments

“Elf: The Musical” ended its 2-week run last night, at the Staples auditorium.

Staples Players’ fall show has taken its place as one of the most fun, energetic and spectacular shows in the troupe’s 66-year history.

Sold-out audiences loved the singing, dancing — and especially, its message of joy. Many attendees got in the spirit of the show themselves:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

From left: Blake Raho, Seamus Brannigan and Chloe Carson. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Buddy (Seamus Brannigan) and the elves. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Clarendon Fine Art on Main Street was filled Friday night, at a reception for Craig Alan.

His work includes dozens, sometimes hundreds, of intricately painted exquisite figures. Here’s one example. (Hat tip: Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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Also Friday night: Staples Service League of Boys‘ (SLOBs) biggest basketball fundraiser ever.

More than 240 SLOBs, students and parents formed 38 3-v-3 teams, to raise over $5,100 for Staples Tuition Grants.

SLOBS president Cole Siegner, fundraising chair Zach Gillman and the executive board planned the event, and selected the charity to support.

They also voted to create a SLOBs named award with Tuition Grants, in honor of their friend and fellow Stapleite Max Harper. To contribute, click here; then select “SHS SLOBs Named Award” from the dropdown menu.

Contratulations to the winners: seniors James Pretty, RJ Kickham and Ben Cukier.

Runners-up were Austin Heyer, Cole Landgraf, Nate Maurillo and James Moneyhun. Two teams won sportsmanship awards: Jack Schwartz, Jackson Tracey, Max Saperstein and Andre Albanese, and Grant Bozeman, Ryan Marens, Charles Nivaud and Michael Roberts.

A small portion of the large SLOBs crowd.

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Westporters are used to seeing one deer, nearly everywhere in town. Sometimes there are 2 or 3.

But 6?!

Richard Fogel spotted these half-dozen the other day off Whitney Street, and snapped this shot for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … Donald “Duck” Dunn was born on this day, in 1941. A bass guitarist/record producer/session musician/songwriter, he is best known for his work with Stax Records artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Rufus and Carla Thomas, Eddie Floyd and others.

Dnn is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Booker T. & the MGs. He died in 2012, at 70.

(Hold on! Are you coming with a tax-deductible donation, to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog? If so, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Athletic Field Lights, Saugatuck Safety, Holiday Wreaths …

Posted on November 22, 2024 | 5 comments

Right now, 3 athletic fields in Westport have lights: Staples’ Paul Lane Field, Greens Farms Elementary School, and PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary School

Will there be more?

The Planning & Zoning Commission’s Recreation Sub-committee meets December 4 (12 noon, Zoom), to review and discuss a draft text covering lighted athletic fields on town-owned public school property.

The public may comment during the meeting. To comment before the session, email PandZ@westportct.gov.

The nighttime crowd at this fall’s Staples Homecoming football game. (Photo/Luca Caniato)

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Amng the items on the agenda of a joint meeting of the Representative Town Meeting Finance, Parks & Recreation, Transit and Public Works Committees (November 26, 7:30 p.m., Zoom):

A request by the director of Public Works to approve a $110,000 appropriation for the analysis, design and preparation of construction documents for traffic signal and pedestrian improvements in Saugatuck, between Bridge Street and Charles Street.

The proposal includes replacement of the Saugatuck fire station traffic light, and bicycle and pedestrian improvements.

The traffic light here may be replaced.

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Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport has partnered with Wreathing for Community.

Volunteers created over a dozen handsome winter wreaths. They’ll be donated to local organizations, charitable events and individuals in town, as recognition for for their kindness and good deeds.

Who gets them?

“06880” readers can nominate an organization or community member to receive a wreath. Email Faith Sargent: whimsicalredheadcrafts@gmail.com.

You can also email her to donate materials for future projects, or arrange an event for your organization or group.

Neighbors and Newcomers take a break from wreath-making.

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Club203 was “on strike” last night. Members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities made pre-Thanksgiving “turkeys,” with a party at Nutmeg Bowling in Fairfield.

Friends, volunteers, fun and food had everyone ”rolling” in new friendships.

Next up: Club203’s holiday bash, December 11 at VFW Post 399. For more information, click here.

Club203, at Nutmeg Bowling.

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Ukraine Aid International — the non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, which has spent nearly 3 years delivering supplies and services to residents and officials in besieged cities in that war-torn nation — has planned a holiday celebration.

It’s both an action-packed evening, and a fundraiser. Proceeds will be earmarked for Ukrainian children, as another harsh winter begins.

The December 8 event (1 to 5 p.m., Redline Restorations, Black Rock) includes food and drinks, holiday activities, kids’ crafts, antique cars, and updates from Marshall Mayer’s recent trip to the front. Click here for details.

Ukraine Aid International

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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between November 13 and 20.

A 58-year-old Waterbury man was arrested for larceny and criminal mischief. he allegedly entered Kai Yoga, stole money, then removed the security camera. He was arraigned on a $175,000 bond.

A 36-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with identity theft and violation of probation, following an investigation into a fraudulent check for $6,613.32, drawn in December 2020. He was held in lieu of an $80,000 bond.

A 34-year-old Stamford man was charged with larceny, criminal mischief and simple trespass, on a complaint by Bank of America of theft of parts of the exterior irrigation system.

A 53-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested on an active re-arrest warrant, after being stopped for a motor vehicle violation.

A 28-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with failure to appear, after an active re-arrest warrant was discovered following a stop for a motor vehicle violation.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 13 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Failure to halt possession of alcohol by a minor: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to display lights: 1
  • Improper stop: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

One arrest this week was for an adult who failed to halt possession of alcohol by a minor.

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Barbara Young, a former Westporter and noted athlete, died last week in Massachusetts. She was 91.

She achieved tremendous success in a variety of sports, including tennis, field hockey, baseball, basketball, platform tennis and golf.

Barbara played for the Chicago Colleens and Kenosha Comets in the All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League, later made famous in “A League of Their Own.”

She is a member of 3 Halls of Fame: at Dean Junior College (for tennis), the Connecticut Golf Association HOF, and in a “Women in Baseball” exhibit at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Barbara also won the Connecticut Sports Writers’ Alliance Gold Key Award.

Barbara was a New England girls champion tennis player, and went on play #1 on the Dean Junior College men’s team. She was also a Westport women’s champ.

At Dean, she also played field hockey. In the 1960s, she played semi-pro basketball.

She was ranked among the Top 10 platform tennis players in the nation.

After receiving a set of golf clubs from her husband for Mother’s Day, she took up the game. She was a 6-time Connecticut women’s champion, and an 8-time state senior champ, along with New England senior crowns. Barbara continues her success in North Carolina.

At the Highland Country Club in Attleboro, Massachusetts, well into her 80s, she was the second-ranked female member by handicap.

Barbara is survived by her children, Janet Young See of Mansfield, Massachusetts and Lawrence of Baltimore, and grandchildren Christopher and Andrew Young, and Jason and Brian See. She was predeceased byher children Donna and Scott.

A celebration of life will be held in January, in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Click here to send online condolences.

Barbara Parks Young

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A great blue heron showed up recently at Burying Hill Beach.

And Johanna Keyser Rossi was there, to snap this image for “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming meeting about lights on athletic fields:

(Here’s another “bright” idea: Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution in support of “06880.” Thank y’all!)

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Roundup: Smoky Air, Old Dominion, Neighborly Sign …

Posted on November 21, 2024 | 3 comments

There was something in the air yesterday.

The smoky odor that pervaded much of Westport was due to a wildfire.

In Great Barrington, Massachusetts.

Smoke from the Berkshires drifted southward, then hung around.

Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “Smoke in the air is a stark reminder of how quickly fires can spread under the right conditions. We urge all residents to remain diligent, and respect the outdoor burning ban to keep our community safe.”

As seen from Sherwood Island State Park, smoke from Massachusetts lingers over Cockenoe Island. (Photo/Chris Swan)

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Old Dominion made history last night.

They were named Counry Music Association Vocal Group of the Year for the 7th time. That beats Little Big Town’s 6 awards.

Old Dominion’s lead guitarist, Brad Tursi, is a 1997 Staples High School graduate (and former soccer star). Last month, he wowed a sell-out Levitt Pavilion crowd last month, as a solo artist with a different backup band.

Old Dominion, at last night’s Country Music Association awards. Westport native Brad Tursi is at far left. (Hat tip and photo/Tricia Summers)

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The other day, “06880” reported on harsh, homemade and very un-neighborly sign posted by a Fillow Street resident.

She was (rightly) upset by very-unneighborly neighbors who neglected to pick up the dog poop deposited on her lawn.

I think she reads “06880.” It’s been replaced by this much smaller, more reasonable, and decidedly neighborly one:

No s—!

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The largest crowd ever turned out for last night’s Artists Collective of Westport show opening, at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn.

All works — over 100, in a wide variety of styles, genres and materials — are available for purchase. And all are 12″ x 12″, making them easy to ship.

The show runs through Sunday, November 24 (noon to 4 p.m., Sheffer Barn at Westport Country Playhouse).

Nina Bentley is one of the many artists whose 12×12 work is on display at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Alisan Porter (Staples High School Class of 1999) and Drew McKeon (SHS ’00) are hitting the road in New England this week, support Alisan’s new record, “The Ride.”

The longtime friends co-wrote the single “Nothing’s Broken,” which Drew produced in his “tiny Manhattan apartment bedroom,” his parents’ Westport basement, and his friend Tim Walsh’s home studio in Black Rock.

Drew finished with vocal tracking at Charlie Chaplin’s old Hollywood lot.

Drew and Alison perform a set of Alisan’s original music spanning her career — including selections from her winning season on NBC’s “The Voice” — this Saturday (November 23) at the intimate Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Other performances include The Cut in Gloucester, Massachusetts (November 30), the Music Hall Lounge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire (December 2), and Boston’s City Winery (December 4).

Alisan Porter and Drew McKeon.

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Speaking of Staples alumni entertainers: “The Good Whale” — a new 6-episode New York Times podcast about “Free Willy” orca star Keiko, once the cameras stopped rolling —  includes an original song by Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his writing partner Benj Pasek.

They’ve already won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. Can whatever award is given for podcast music far behind? (Hat tip: Ann Humphrey)

Keiko

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Speaking of music: Weston High School junior Owen Daniel has just released his debut single.

“Fear of Losing You — the first song he ever wrote — was produced at Norwalk’s Factory Underground Studio. It is available on all streaming outlets. Click here to listen and download.

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More entertainment news: This Sunday (November 24, 7 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company), Westporter Hannah Levin (Greens Farms Academy Class of 2015) screens her short film, “Golden Child,” as part of the FTC Short Film Festival.

The plot: a young woman is reunited with her childhood friend at a pool party, and reckons with the fact that he used to pee on her when they were kids.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

 

Hannah Levin

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It’s not yet Black Friday. But Sorelle Gallery’s Black Friday sale has already begun.

All art is 20% off. And there’s free shipping through Cyber Monday (December 2). 11:59pm). Click here to explore the offerings.

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This week’s Westport Rotary Club lunch featured an audio presentation by Dr.  Uyanwune Mbanefo.

He is a Rotary Peace Fellow working to ameliorate serious issues faced by 8 million albinos in Nigeria.

Believed to be evil, they face verbal and physical violence, and are sometimes hunted for body parts. They are also very susceptible to skin cancer.

Dr. Uyanwune Mbanefo

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Former Staples High School football star Willard “Buz” Leavitt — part of the 1964 backfield  that included Bill During, John Bolger and Jack Forehand — died on November 13. He was 77, and lived in Blythewood, South Carolina.

Buz moved from Burnt Hills, New York to Westport as a junior. After his stellar Staples seasons, he headed to Wake Forest University. He earned ACC Offensive Player of the Week mention, and graduated in 1970.

He met his wife Anne there. They married in 1969, and were together for 55 years.

Buz spent 32 years with Procter & Gamble in Charlotte, as sales manager and special events director.

For spent decades coaching youth sports, and was admired by players and parents alike.

Buz is survived by his wife Anne; sons Chris (Darla) of Greenville, South Carolina, Charley (Heather) of Charlotte, and Courtney (Shelley) of Blythewood; brother Scott (Bridget), of Charlotte; sister Susan Pittman, of Roswell, Georgia, and grandchildren Riley, Zoe, Lila, Ian, Banks, Ella Chase, Eliza and Olivia.

A service to celebrate his life will be on November 22 (1 p.m.), at the Clubhouse at Cobblestone Park in Blythewood.

In Lieu of flowers, a gift in Buz’s memory can be made to Baby Bundles, a Charlotte nonprofit that provides essential baby items to families in need.

Buz Leavitt

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Longtime Westport realtor Margherita (Marj) Basili died last Friday. She was 94, and also lived in Palatka, Florida.

The New Haven native worked her way through New York University, and graduated with a degree in business. 

She worked as a management consultant, then worked for the Australian Consolidated Press in New York.

In 1957 Marj moved to Naples, Italy, where she supported the 6th Fleet as a buyer and merchandising manager in the Naval Postal Exchange (PX).

She married in Italy, then and returned to the US in 1960 to start a family. She taugh in Milford and Westport elementary schools.

By 1969, a single mother of 3 young boys, she shifted into commercial and residential real estate

Her family says, “Marj curated a large group of friends, knitted together by her interests in life and her empathetic approach to others. She reveled in helping others. No problem was insurmountable to her.”

She survived by her sons, Giuseppe (Dean) of Norman, Oklahoma, Gianfranco (Allison) of St. Augustine, Florida, and Roberto (Sara) of Bergen, Norway, granddaughters Alexandra Basili Gunther (Ben) and Johanne, and grandsons Benjamin and Filip.

At Marj’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.

Marj Basili

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features a fine-looking (and well-camouflaged) bobcat:

(Photo/Elisabeth Levey)

It wandered up Elisabeth Levey’s driveway off Compo Road South, “very chill and completely unperturbed by us humans.”

And why not? These cats were here long before us.

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And finally … in honor (or at least recognition) of yesterday’s visit from Great Barrington:

 (Many “06880” readers contacted us yesterday, wondering about the smoky smell. We’re glad the town turns to us. But we rely on your support to keep us going. Please click here to help. Thanks!)

 

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Westport Teens, By The Numbers

Posted on November 21, 2024 | 30 comments

When the Board of Education meets tonight (Thursday, November 21, 7 p.m., Staples cafeteria), they’ll receive 2 reports.

One describes what happens in the classroom: standardized testing, college acceptances and more, for Staples High School’s Class of 2024.

The other tells what happens outside of school: the most recent youth survey of students in grades 7-12.

Let’s begin with the seniors, who graduated in June.

The 426 graduates are attending 176 different post-secondary institutions. The overwhelming majority — 93.1% — are in 4-year colleges.

Another 2.1% are in 2-year colleges. Just 0.5% are at post-grad, vocational or other higher education institutions.

1.7% of the Class of ’24 are taking a gap year. 0.9% entered the military. 1.6% went directly into the workforce, or are classified as “other.”

The Top 5 college in terms of attendance are Syracuse University (14 current Staples freshmen), the University of Connecticut (including regional campuses — 12); the University of Colorado (11), and Indiana University and Northeastern University (10 each).

The top 5 college in terms of applicants from last year’s seniors: UConn (152 applications), Indiana (85), Pennsylvania State University (81), the University of Colorado (76) and Elon University (64).

28% of students applied for local or community scholarships. 13% said they intended to play an intercollegiate sport. 7% said they applied to a visual or performing arts program.

40% of students submitted test scores to all colleges. 26% submitted some. 34% did not submit test scores to any college.

The 3 most important factors in the college search and selection process were academic programs, location, and activities/campus life, students said.

In terms of standardized testing, the composite mean ACT score was 29.3. The total mean SAT score was 1229.

Last spring, a total of 577 students (including non-seniors) took a total of 1,338 Advanced Placement exams. The mean score was 4.3.

So what happens outside beyond the school day?

Last February, Westport’s Departmentn of Human Services and Positive Directions sruveyed a random sample of students in grades 7-12. Among the findings:

Use of alcohol, cannabis and vaping has decreased since the 2021 survey. Other substance use (tobacco, misues of prescription drugs) remains minimal, at 1%.

Substance use rates are “particularly low at the middle schoo level, and remain low through 10th grade.”

The “large majority” of high school students do not report any substance use. According to the survey, 75% of Staples students do not drink; 91% do not use cannabis, and 92% do not vape.

Most Westport teenagers 16 and older do not drive under the influence of alcohol or cannabis, the report found. However, 8% report that they have ridden with a driver under the influence. And 12% have texted while driving.

Fewer than 10 Staples students reported using hallucinogens, meth, heroin, fentanyl, MOMA, cocaine, crack or inhalants.

Students with Individualized Education Programs use cannabis at three time the rate of students without IEPs, and vape at twice the non-IEP rate. In 12th grade, 53% of students with IEPs reported using cannabis.

Alcohol use among Westport seniors is 1.6 times the national rate (38% here, versus 24% nationally).

The report says the local rate “may reflect a common parenting misperception that youth should ‘learn’ to drink before college.”

In 2021, 60% of seniors said that they drank.

Though cigarette smoking in 12th grade is low (4%), it is double the 2% reported in 2021. 5% of students use nicotine pouches.

22% of 7th graders do not believe it is harmful to binge drink 5+ drinks once or twice a week.

15% of 7th gaders do not see vaping nicotine or marijuana as risky.

In 12th grade, 51% of students believe that using cannabis once or twice a week is not harmful.

The report also notes that fewer than 2/3 of teenagers say that their parents “takek steps to prevent youth from accessing or using substances at home.”

54% of youth who drink get their alcohol from an adult family member, with permission.

More than half of students who use alcohol or cannabis do so at their own home, or a friend’s home.

39% of youth who drink do so at home, with a parent or guardian present.

Finally, the report says, “gambling is emerging as a popular risky behavior.” 23% of students have gambled on fantasy or real sports, scratch tickets, online, or poker.

(“06880” regularly covers education, youth issues, and Westport life. If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Candlelight Tickets Available November 25

Posted on November 19, 2024 | 4 comments

For 84 years, the Candlelight Concert has been the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town.

With its “Sing We Noel” processional, “Hallelujah Chorus” finale, and wondrous performances by the choirs, orchestras and bands, Candlelight is timeless.

Scores of musicians make Candlelight magic.

But there is always something new, too.

This year, it’s the debut of band leader Kevin Mazzarella. He joins veteran orchestra director Carrie Marasco, choral conductor Lauren Pine, and the rest of the outstanding Staples music department, in presenting the beloved holiday concert that is always fresh and exciting, yet also warmly traditional.

This year’s concert is Friday, December 13 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 14 (3 and 8 p.m.).

Tickets will be available to the public at 9 a.m. on Monday, November 25 (online at www.staplesmusic.org). There is a maximum of 4 tickets per order.

There is no charge for Candlelight tickets. However, donations to support the music program are graciously accepted.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

This year’s Candlelight Concert features inspiring selections and familiar favorites.

Susato’s lively “La Morisque,” a brass and wind rendition from 16th-century Germany, leads seamlessly into the “Sing We Noel” processional.

The haunting “Sing We Noel” proessional. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

The full orchestra will highlight “March of the Toys” from “Babes in Toyland,” followed by the combined choral ensembles’ Liberian folk song “African Noel,” “Ave Maria,” and a vibrant arrangement of the Ashkenazic folk song “S’Vivon.”

Mazzarella’s band debut includes a stirring rendition of Aaron Copland’s “The Promise of Living” from “The Tender Land” — a hopeful, reflective close to the year — followed by the vibrant and dramatic “Bacchanale” by Saint-Saëns.

After Alan Silvestri’s “The Polar Express,” Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” provides a rousing and popular finale.

In the spirit of the season, the Staples Tri-M Music Honor Society will conduct a “CanDelight” canned food donation drive, to benefit the Homes for Hope food pantry. There will be collection bins in the auditorium lobby, before each concert.

Veteran Candlelight-goers know: Tickets sell out fast. Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m., November 25. And remember the website: www.staplesmusic.org.

This year’s Candlelight poster was designed by art and music student Connor Yuan.

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Roundup: Ukraine, Local Politics, Sports …

Posted on November 19, 2024 | 11 comments

The Sunrise Rotary and Westport Rotary Clubs have pledged $2,500 each, to Ukraine Aid International.

Rotarian Ken Bernhard is seeking more funds, which the national club will match. The goal of $15,000 would purchase water filtration systems, for use in the war-torn nation.

The need is critical, in areas where Russian forces have destroyed water supplies.

UAI founders Marshall and Brian Mayer — who grew up in Westport — described the water filtration systems, and other aid their non-profit provides (including communications equipment, vehicles, and funds for children’s therapy camps) on Sunday, at a special dinner provided by Nômade.

Among the attendees: Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Jim Himes. Both provided insights into the current status of US aid to Ukraine. Blumenthal — who has traveled there 6 times — noted the bipartisan support, with ties forged on his trips with Republican senators like Lindsay Graham.

Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Jim Himes at Nômade. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Click below for Congressman Himes’ remarks:

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee holds a public meeting this Thursday (November 21, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 307-9).

The agenda includes reviews of the parking lot project, a review of the public engagement process, and an update on the parking study and feasibility analysis.

Meanwhile, the Long Lots School Building Committee meeting scheduled for today (Tuesday) has been canceled.

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ESPN’s Jeremy Schaap has done it again.

The Westporter debuted his stunning new documentary, before a large Westport audience crowd.

“Pat Tillman: Life, Death, Legacy” is a profound and impactful look at the life and legacy of the NFL star who volunteered to serve in Afghanistan, then was killed by friendly fire.

Missed it? Click here for details on how to stream the video.

Jeremy Schaap, at the Westport Library. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Briggs)

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Also last night: A nearly sold-out audience enjoyed the Westport Country Playhouse’s latest Script In Hand reading.

“A Danger to Yourself and Others” took place — appropriately — the week before Thanksgiving, It involved a gas station robbery, library card revocation, love, and much more.

Script in Hand readings are regular — and very popular — Playhouse events.

Script in Hand readings give a great flavor of interesting plays. This is a scene from “A Danger to Yourself.” (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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It was a day for Clemson orange.

But there was plenty of Staples blue in Cary, North Carolina on Sunday.

Goalkeeper Paddy Donovan — a 2022 Staples High School grad — saved one penalty kick, in the ACC men’s soccer final.

But 2 Clemson teammates missed theirs, and Wake Forest captured the league championship, 7-6, after regulation and overtime ended 1-1.

Among the other local connections: Clemson is coached by 1979 Staples grad (and former state champion) Mike Noonan. He’s led the Tigers to 2 national titles in the past 3 years.

In the stands: Paddy’s parents, Dan and Nicole Donovan. Both are SHS alums too. Dan is a former Wrecker soccer state champion. And his late brother Doug was Noonan’s teammate, on that ’78 state title squad.

Also on hand: former Staples teachers Dave and Marianne Harrison (social studies and physical education, respectively). Both now live in North Carolina.

Next up for Clemson: The NCAA tournament. Donovan and his teammates earned a first-round bye.

From left: Nicole Donovan, Dave and Marianne Harrison, Dan Donovan. All sport Clemson orange.

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Speaking of sports: The Staples girls rugby program hosts a clinci for all current interested girls, in 8th grade and above, on November 24 (12:30 to 2 p.m., Staples football field).

Players from the University of New Haven Women’s Rugby Team will be lead the event. It’s a chance for girls (and their parents) see what rugby is all about, ask questions, and meet athletes. No prior experience is required.

The Staples girls rugby season runs from March through June.

Staples High School girls rugby. (Photo/Dylan Chatterjee Photography)

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It’s been an November to remember.

Just over a week before Thanksgiving, this is the still-splendrous scene at Celia Campbell-Mohn’s home, off Roseville Road:

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … on this day in 1493, Christopher Columbus landed on an island he first saw the day before. He named it San Juan Bautista. Today we know it as Puerto Rico.

The island has given the world many great gifts. Among them: our neighbor, longtime Weston resident José Feliciano.

(“06880” is where Westport — and Weston — meet the world. If you enjoy the connections you find here, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Startup Westport Salutes Young Tech Innovators

Posted on November 19, 2024 | 4 comments

At 15, Dylan Diamond built an app. Now, his Staples High School classmates had an easy way to view their schedules and grades.

Most people would have stopped there.

Diamond rolled it out nationally. It’s evolved into Saturn — a must-have calendar and time management app for high school and college students.

Customizable and shareable, it includes classes, clubs, sports practice and games, concert and show rehearsals, and more.

Dylan Diamond

As CEO of Saturn Technologies, Diamond oversees 100-plus employees, at its New York headquarters.

Long before he earned a dual degree in computer science and engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, Diamond’s Staples Class of 2017 teachers and classmates knew he’d go far.

Diamond is just one of a remarkable crop of recent SHS grads who are creating companies, raising tens of millions of dollars in funding, and redefining entire industries.

Max Hammer graduated a year before Diamond. He too went to Penn, where he majored in international relations and affairs.

Today, Hammer and classmate Josh Karol — a fellow 2016 Staples grad, who earned a degree in compueter science and mathematics at Emory University — are CEO and CTO, respectively, of CrowdVolt.

Max Hammer and Josh Karol.

Their start-up solves a problem bedeviling their generation: how to exchange rave and EDM tickets, without the hassle of buying them of Facebook Marketplace or Reddit, or paying high fees on other sites.

How serious are they? Hammer and Karol are backed by Y Combinator — the most prominent start-up accelerator in the world.

Jack Sharkey is even younger than those three. The University of Texas computer science and business grad — now CTO of Whop — is a 2018 Staples alum.

His platform connects buyers and sellers in the digital economy, focusing on influencers and content creators.

Jack Sharkey

Whop secured $17 million in a Series A funding round. Investors — including Insight Partners, the Chainsmokers fund and Peter Thiel — valued the startup at $100 million. With a million customers and 3,000 sellers, Whop has facilitated $100 million in transactions.

Like Diamond, Hammer and Karol, Sharkey got his start in Staples’ computer science program. He created an app offering schedules, sites and other info on all 27 sports played at any of Connecticut’s 183 high schools — including varsity, JV and freshman.)

Next Monday, November 25 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library), they’ll all pay it forward.

The 4 creative, hard-working entrepreneurial superstars will be featured at Startup Westport’s Young Innovators Forum.

Molly O’Shea

The Staples connection continues with the moderator. Molly O’Shea

A 2014 Staples grad who earned a BA in design and entrepreneurship at New York University, she’s a venture capital investor, and founder of Sourcery, the VC deal and startup trend newsletter.

Previous Startup Westport forums focused on women and minorities.

Now, Westport’s public-private tech and innovation partnership shines a spotlight on a new group of entrepreneurs. All are younger than 26.

Next week’s Young Innovators Forum is open to all ages.

“We are excited to welcome Staples High School students, their parents, alumni and all other Westporters for an evening celebrating the success of these extraordinary, home-grown innovators — and to hear how they journeyed from classrooms here to the pinnacle of innovation,” says Startup Westport co-founder and president Cliff Sirlin.

The panelists will discuss the challenges they’ve faced, the creative solutions they’ve pioneered, and how Westport and Staples shaped their journeys.

Hammer looks forward to inspiring others, and building connections — just as he did, a few years ago here.

Diamond adds, “The mentorship I received, and the encouragement to build products that served the community, were hugely motivating. I’m thrilled to return, to share my experiences.”

O’Shea — who is coming from California to moderate the evening — notes, “Each of these companies has achieved incredible milestones and legitimacy.

“This is not just a typical panel. They’ve collectively raised from top-tier Silicon Valley firms, hit significant growth, and reached product market fit.”

And, looking back at her alma mater, O’Shea says, “I’m excited to support Staples’ growing role in tech.”

(The Young Innovators Forum is free, but registration is required. Click here for details.)

(“06880” often highlights the success of Staples graduates, of all ages and types. If you enjoy this coverage on your hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Field Hockey, Jeremy Schaap & Pat Tillman, Jeff Scher & Tom Petty …

Posted on November 17, 2024 | 3 comments

It’s getting routine.

But it never gets old.

The Staples High School field hockey team won their 6th state championship — and 2nd in a row — yesterday.

The Wreckers beat Darien 5-2, at Wethersfield High School. They put the game away with 3 straight goals, breaking a 2-2 draw. Goals came from Leah Larit (2), and Emma Larit, Alex Hackett and Sofia Fidalgo.

It was a clash of titans. Staples was seeded first in the class “L” (large schools) tourney. The Blue Wave were second.

They’re longtime rivals. The Westporters — ranked number 8 nationally — lost only once all year, to out-of-state Camden (New Jersey) Catholic. Darien had only 2 losses before yesterday. Both were to Staples.

And … the Blue Wave were victims of the Wrecker juggernaut in this year’s FCIAC final, and last year’s championship game as well.

Well done, coach Ian Tapsall and all the girls. Now, Darien and the rest of Connecticut: Get ready for a three-peat!

Staples field hockey: once again, state champs! (Photos courtesy of Staples High School Athletics)

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Speaking of sports: ESPN journalist — and Westport resident — Jeremy Schaap hosts a special screening of his new E60 documentary tomorrow (Monday, November 18, 7 p.m., Westport Library).

“Pat Tillman: Life, Death, Legacy” highlights his career as a football star with the Arizona Cardinals, followed by his life as an Army Ranger in Afghanistan. His death (by friendly fire) received national attention.

After the film, Schaap will lead a discussion about it, and Tillman’s legacy.

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Chris Knapp has just published his first novel.

And the New York Times — no easy reviewer — loves the first effort, from the 2002 Staples High School graduate.

Hilary Leichter writes:

Public and private moments of upheaval are the catastrophes in Chris Knapp’s fantastically dense and omnivorous debut novel, “States of Emergency.”

Climates both marital and global, existential terror and immediate terror, the dissolution of borders between countries and also people — such a list only simplifies the vertiginous simultaneity achieved in these pages.

Knapp doesn’t just tighten the perceived distance between our inner lives and the world around us; he erases it.

The result is a masterfully digressive story that moves across perspectives, time zones and time periods.

Imagine a 24-hour news cycle that name-checks Walter Benjamin, Frantz Fanon, the New York City water supply, the Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges and Chris Martin’s 2016 Super Bowl halftime show, and you’ll have something approximating the serious and often playful intellectual terrain of this novel. Knapp’s narrator is a flâneur with push notifications.

Click here for the full review. Click here for more information, and to order “States of Emergency.” (Hat tip: Jeff Wieser)

Chris Knapp

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1972 Staples High School graduate Jeff Scher is a filmmaker and animator. He works in a Cross Highway studio, a few steps from his house.

He says: “In the pursuit of tiny post-election joys, here’s a new video I made for the Tom Petty estate. It premiered Friday.

“It’s an unreleased song from the ‘Long After Dark’ album that’s been re-released, with new songs from the original session.”

The video includes a couple of shots based on Compo Beach.

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The Heida Hermanns Piano Competition never gets the local attention it deserves.

But the event — set for November 22 and 23, at MoCA CT — is one of the most prestigious in the piano world. It celebrates emerging talents, ages 18-35.

This year’s 3 international finalists — Nick Bai, Carter Johnson and Yongqiu Liu — were chosen from over 70 pianists, who submitted videos of their performances. The trio will premiere a new commissioned work, by composer Lowell Liebermann.

Chair of the jury panel is Frederic Chiu, the local resident, internationally known pianist, and a previous Hermanns winner. The winner receives $10,000.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

2024 Heida Hermanns finalists.

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Speaking of music: On November 24 (The Klein, Bridgeport; 6:30 p.m.), longtime Westport resident and nearly as longtime  instructor Bernice Friedson will receive the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras’ inaugural Inna Berson Wetmore Excellence in Teaching Award.

Friedson “demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of music education, inspires young musicians, and makes meaningful and lasting connections to their students and our community through their teaching,” the honor says.

Friedson grew up half a block from Carnegie Hall. She gave her first recital at age 7, and later performed on WQXR and WNYC.  As a teenager, she played with the New York Philharmonic and NBC Symphony.

She studied at Juilliard and Mannes Schools of Music. At 18 she auditioned for conductor Leopold Stokowski, and was accepted into both the City Center Opera and RCA Recording Orchestras.

After moving to Connecticut, Friedson played with the Norwalk, New Haven and Stamford Symphonies, and served as concertmaster for the Greater Bridgeport, Danbury and Ridgefield Symphonies, Connecticut Ballet, and Connecticut Grand Opera. She was concertmaster, violin soloist and assistant conductor of the Connecticut Chamber Orchestra, and founded the Connecticut String Quartet.

Friedson helped found the Greater Bridgeport Symphony Youth Orchestra (now GCTYO) in 1961. She was also a founding member of the Fairfield County String Teachers Association, and a specialist at Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County.

She continues to teach violin and viola, coach chamber music groups, and prepare students for auditions at at her Westport studio.

Bernice Friedson, with instruments created by her violin-maker father.

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Looking for activities, entertainment, volunteering, resources?

These ideas come from Westport’s Department of Human Resources.

Today (Sunday, November 17):

Also ahead:

Local Programs and Resources:

Westport Human Services links to programs and services:

Donate to food pantries:  Homes with Hope and the Westport Woman’s Club, or reach out to Westport Human Services for food resources.

Click here for information on foster families.

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“06880” photographers can’t get enough of this full moon.

Matt Murray snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image yesterday, as it rose over Sherwood Mill Pond.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … on this date in 1973, President Nixon told 400 Associated Press managing editors, “I am not a crook.”

(Sports, music, literature — and everything else going on in town — are all part of today’s Roundup. Just like every day. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Players’ “Elf,” Board Of Ed’s Conversation, Supermoon’s Tide …

Posted on November 16, 2024 | 2 comments

Staples Players have done it again.

The high school troupe punched way above their weight, thrilling last night’s audience with a Broadway-quality presentation of “Elf: The Musical.”

It’s fresh, funny and festive — a perfect, high-energy and wholesome respite from reality, and a great way to begin the holiday season a couple of weeks early.

The show continues today (Saturday, November 16, 2 and 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, November 17, 2 p.m.). There are performances next weekend too, on November 21 and 22 (7 p.m.) and 23 (2 and 7 p.m.).Click here for tickets. Though some shows may be sold out, tickets are often available at the door.

“Elf” cast members take their bows last night. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Westport Board of Education hosts a “community conversation” for all residents this Wednesday (November 20, noon to 1:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Any school-related topic can be raised.

Velma Heller — former RTM moderator, and longtime Westport Public School admistrator, will facilitate the event.

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Looking for a “sign” of yesterday’s supermoon high tide?

Check out this scene, at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Mary Ann Hardy)

This was the view at Burying Hill Beach:

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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31 men and women have just graduated from Westport’s Citizens’ Police Academy.

They spent 8 weeks learning all about the Westport Police Department’s many functions, including criminal investigations, specialty units, forensic science, financial scams, motor vehicle stops, and post-arrest procedures.

They also participated in firearms familiarization, rode with patrol officers, and received “stop the bleed training.”

Another session will be held next year.

Westport Citizens’ Police Academy graduates.

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Speaking of police: One of Westport’s K-9 dogs starred in a photo shoot yesterday, at the Compo Beach cannons.

Cathy Malkin spotted the action. She has no idea of why it happened — but she enjoyed watching it all.

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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Another day, another amazing animal rescue.

A buck jumped in, then became trapped for a day inside a half-finished cement foundation. Two members of the Fairfield County Hunt Club horse barn team provided hay bales.

Public Works Department employees and Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid began assembling a ramp from the bales.

Suddenly, the buck ran at the wall, and jumped out cleanly. “He just needed the right motivation,” Julie Loparo reports on social media.

Deer trapped in foundation. (Photo courtesy of Westport Front Porch, via Facebook)

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Longtime Westporter — and elected (Representative Town Meeting) official — Dick Lowenstein reminds all candidates for office earlier this month: It’s (past) time to remove your lawn signs!

This photo is from yesterday afternoon:

(Photo/Dick Lowenstein)

Today’s weather is perfect to get out, get ’em — and sotre them for the next campaign.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is another one from yesterday’s supermoon.

Robin Frank captured it — peeking through the trees — beautifully.\

(Photo/Robin Frank)

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And finally … on this date in 1938, LSD was first synthesized, in as Swiss laboratory.

(Remember what the dormouse said: “Feed ‘06880’!” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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