Tomorrow, Jolie Gefen graduates from Staples High School.
One of 2 “06880” interns this spring, she helped develop our new “Teens & Tweens” series, giving Westport’s youth a voice on our blog.
Jolie kicks things off today, writing honestly and impactfully about her time in high school. Please share her words with the young people in your life.
According to Google, optimism is “hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.”
Jolie Gefen
As a moody high schooler undergoing all kinds of stress and drama, the idea of optimism did not come easily to me. As I anticipate graduating on Monday, I reflect on my past 4 years, and now know much more than I did as a freshman.
I wish I had prioritized keeping an open mind and staying positive.
As most of us know very well, Staples fosters an extremely competitive environment. At times, the constant stress and competition I forced myself to undergo and experience over simple assignments was far too overwhelming.
I also often kept a closed mind about taking classes outside of my comfort zone or in subjects I had yet to partake in. I deeply regret that, but I have also learned from it.
High school is a time to learn what kinds of things interest a person, and I feel I neglected to do so. It’s imperative to take advantage of the many avenues Staples offers us and to ignore anyone suggesting that the classes you take have to align with what you may pursue in college, as it is simply not true.
When it came to the topic of college, my situation also was very close-minded and pessimistic. All my life I have had one dream school. This school was pretty much do or die for me, and I made myself feel that my worth and value as a person and student relied on getting accepted by this college.
I constantly doubted my ability of success, and became frantic over each imperfect grade as it could have hurt my chances of acceptance.
I implore future seniors about to embark on this long journey to stay optimistic throughout the process, and maintain faith in yourself. You will end up where you need to be, and at the end of the day, a college does not define you.
One of the biggest regrets I have to this day is how narrow-minded I was regarding friends. Until senior year, I had failed to reach out to new people or be open to becoming friends with some people because of preconceived notions in my head. Right before senior year, however, I joined a big group of amazing girls and found my best friends.
Jolie Gefen and friends.
Although it’s impossible to know it will work out until you’re on the other side of things, I really wish I had just kept an open mind to everyone around me. The people I am closest to today are people I hadn’t even ever talked to a year ago. Things really do have a way of working out, and I believe I am living proof.
I know it’s all easier said than done, but I truly hope anyone reading this who may feel the same as I did when it came to classes, college or friends hears me when I say that keeping an open, positive mind is key. When things are tough, try your hardest to find the silver linings and stay optimistic.
When things are great, savor every moment.
I have learned that high school is truly what you make of it.
(“Teens & Tweens” is an open forum for Westport students. You can write about anything: good or bad, happy or sad, your passions and dreams, your thoughts about your life and community. You can use your name, or be anonymous. You can also submit artwork, videos or other media. If interested, email 06880blog@gmail.com.)
June brings many events: graduations. Weddings. Father’s Day. Flag Day.
In Westport, it’s also dog licensing month. Licenses covering July 1 through June 30, 2025 can be obtained online, starting immediately. All dogs over 6 months old must be licensed.
Fees are $8 for neutered males and spayed females, $19 for others. Additional fees apply for online applications. There is a $1 penalty per month for renewal licenses issued after June 30. A $75 infraction will be issued for any non-licensed dog, and for any dog not wearing a current dog tag attached to a collar around its neck or body.
Click here, then scroll down to learn how to apply online.
For paper applications, mail or the drop box at the rear of Town Hall are preferred. Dog licenses can be processed in the Town Clerk’s office for those needing in-person assistance. Click here for the application.
Questions about dog licenses? Call 203-341-1110, or visit click here, then scroll down.
“I only date dogs that are licensed,” she says. (Photo/Charlie Scott)
The Westport Farmers’ Market attracts large crowds every Thursday.
This week, the crowd included Jim Himes.
Our US congressman met shoppers, local farmers and vendors. He asked plenty of questions, and also learned about the WFM’s community programs.
Congressman Jim Himes meets Rebecca Batchie, co-owner of Fort Hill Farm in New Milford.
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Mia Bomback is the newest addition to the “06880” board of directors.
One of the 7 seats on the non-profit’s board is reserved for a Staples High School Inklings members. Mia — a rising senior — will be paper managing editor for the 2024-25 school year. She replaces Caitlin Jacob on the board.
Mia has lived in Westport for over 10 years. A passionate student and aspiring journalist, she has already been part of the School of the New York Times, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Yale Daily News summer journalism programs.
She has also worked as an intern for the Westport Journal, and contributed to “06880.”
Outside of journalism, Mia holds leadership roles in Staples’ French Club (which she co-founded), and Model UN, and volunteers at the Westport Book Shop.
She is also involved in the town-led civil discourse initiative Common Ground, and is very active in her religious community.
In her free time Mia listens to music, plays golf, and spends time with friends at family at Compo Beach.
For more information on the “06880” board of directors, click here.
Mia Bomback
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A few tickets remain for tonight’s big Levitt Pavilion show: Keb’ Mo’, with Phillip-Michael Scales (Saturday, June 8, 7 p.m.).
With 5 Grammys and 14 Blues Foundation Awards in a career of nearly 50 years, Keb’ Mo’ is one of America’s most accomplished contemporary roots artists.
Scales’ “dive bar soul” blends indie rock with passionate blues.
There is no outside food or drink. But the Blind Rhino food truck and bar by Rizzuto’s will be open. Children 6 and under are free in the bring-your-own-chair section. Click here for tickets, and more infromation.
And finally … Frank Lloyd Wright was born on this day, in 1867. The ground-breaking architect died in 1959, age 91.
(If today’s “06880” Roundup saved you from a fine for not having a dog license, please click here to support our work. You can also click if we didn’t help, but you like us anyway. Thank you!)
At the beginning of last night’s Staples High School Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion, emcee David Pogue made a joke about the number of times the concert has been moved inside due to rain and wildfire smoke — or canceled, because of COVID.
This time the skies were clear, the temperature perfect.
Suddenly — just a few minutes into the show — a fierce wind blew in.
Music sheets scattered. Banners flapped. It looked like an unexpected weather event would ruin the evening.
Suddenly, all was calm again. The “wind ensemble” left. The show went on … beautifully.
The Staples music department’s gift to the town showed off all the performing groups: the Symphonic Band and Orchestra, Choralaires, Orphenians, Jazz Ensemble, and several small ensembles.
The program ranged from Blood Sweat & Tears to Glen Campbell; Björk to the Beatles; Simon & Garfunkel to Freddie Mercury and Queen.
In less than a decade, the Pops Concert has become a cherished Westport tradition. It is entertaining, fun — and very, very professional.
Our Staples instructors and musicians are outstanding. The standing ovations they got were well-deserved.
And the rainbow over the stage made the night even more perfect.
Rainbow over the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Harris Falk)
Three groups performed before the show. Seamus Brannigan plays drums on “Ventura Highway.”
The Choralaires sing the national anthem. This is Lauren Pine’s first Pops Concert, as Staples’ new choral director.
The final performance for Phil Giampietro (left), Staples’ highly regarded band and jazz ensemble director. He’s leaving for Hall High-West Hartford, closer to his home in Cheshire and where he will remake their program. Gregg Winters (right) teaches band at Bedford Middle School, and jazz workshop at Staples.
Andrew Maskoff (keyboard) and Rohan Wadhwani (vocals) lead the Jazz Ensemble in “Spinning Wheel.”
Musicians look to the sky, as strong winds blow in.
Curtis Sullivan, Ethan Walmark, Henry Carson and Rohan Wadhwani harmonize on “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
Eva Slossberg (2nd from left) wowed the crowed with her vocals on “Would That I.” She was accompanied by (from left) pianist Andrew Maskoff, and cellists Ellia Tobben and Kai Seo. Missing is cellist Shivali Kanthan. (Contributed photo)
The full Symphonic Orchestra, Band and Choralaires close the show with a rousing “Bohemian Rhapsody.” (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)
On Monday, Staples High School holds its 137th graduation ceremony.
Over 415 young men and women will receive diplomas, leave the Class of 2024 behind, and head out to a dangerous, unpredictable world.
More than 80 years ago, the world was even more dangerous and unpredictable.
In the 1942-43 school year, the school paper Inklings reported, wartime shortages made “the candy table supply look quite pathetic.” Mounds, Hershey Bars, O. Henry, Baby Ruth all disappeared.
Students with last period study hall were allowed to leave school early. Some worked for local industries manufacturing items needed for the war effort.
Others harvested crops on local farms, replacing older men who had been called up to serve.
The Junior Red Cross organized a scrap and tin drive. Art classes made booklets for men in Army hospitals, and contributed posters to local bond drives.
William Torno’s shop classes built 4 wood rifle racks, each holding 32 guns, for the Westport Defense Training Unit. He added an oxyacetylene course too, in the newly important skill of welding.
Bill Torno (rear) supervises a 1940s Staples High School shop class.
Miss Ossi’s home economics classes made nearly 100 cotton hospital bags. The Navy came to Staples, and gave exams for the V-12 College Training program.
A Commando Course, combining gymnastics and swimming, was held every Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the downtown YMCA (now Anthropologie), not far from the Riverside Avenue school (now Saugatuck Elementary). Instruction included diving from the side of a burning ship, and swimming under water while oil burned on the surface.
On other days boys wrestled, boxed and marched. The Commando and intensive gym courses were mandatory for all high school boys.
In perhaps the most chilling reminder of the war’s effect, 10 of the 100 graduates of the Class of 1943 – exactly 10 percent – did not attend commencement ceremonies. The stars next to their names meant they had already left school, to serve in the armed forces. The Staples High School yearbook was dedicated to them.
The “new” Staples High School opened on Riverside Avenue in 1937. When the Class of 1943 graduated, it was just 7 years old.
The next year, the 88-member Class of 1944 included 7 more service members.
At an assembly 6 months earlier, principal Douglas Young set a minimum but difficult goal of $25,000 for the 4th nationwide War Bond Drive. Six months later, the results were announced: Staples students had raised a whopping $39,500. That made graduation night special.
So did the sudden appearance, in full uniform, of Airman Sebastian (Sebby) Lauterbach. He joined the class in time to march to the stage for the ceremony.
The memory became even more poignant a few months later, when he was one of two members of the class killed in combat.
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
Lyman — Westport’s Ukrainian sister city — was struck by Russian missiles recently.
A video from Ukraine Aid International — the non-profit formed by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, which has delivered over $300,000 donated by Westporters to our friends in that town — shows some of the horrific destruction. Click here to see.
To donate to Ukraine Aid International by credit card, click here; click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo.
A resident of Lyman — Westport’s sister city — after a Russian air strike.
Meanwhile, Lyman’s police chief asked his counterpart, Westport Chief Foti Koskinas, for help. The town needs 2 EcoFlow batteries to power up their charging stations for the Starlink (provided by Westport), their computers and other important devices.
Ukraine Aid International is providing the funds, using money from last summer’s LymanAID fundraiser.
Wednesday’s Roundup included an email from a reader who slammed me for reckless driving on Thomas Road, in “my” BMW with “06880” plates.
I noted that I don’t have a BMW, and that just because I publish “06880,” it doesn’t mean that’s my license plate.
Yesterday, I heard from Gary Shelton, who has some skin in this game. He wrote:
“I’m the driver of the blue BMW ‘06880,’ and a very aware and careful driver.
“The man who wrote you should learn how to properly walk a dog between himself and the side of the road. He had the dog on a long leash between himself and the middle of the road on a blind corner.
“The ‘heads up display’ in my car says the speed limit on Thomas is 25. I was going 20 mph up the hill approaching that blind curve. He gave me a choice of slamming on my brakes and hitting his dog, or accelerating and going quickly around him.
“Fortunately I have extensive evasive maneuver driver training. I would much rather have hit the other car than his dog. He should have been appreciative of that, but clearly is not a good dog parent.
“The other car simply went on the small shoulder as I was around him and back in my lane before he was at any impact point. Cars can be fixed; lives cannot.
“I hope you add this to your blog as a response. I have been a longtime Westporter, and that has been a longstanding family license plate.”
The Staples High School baseball team plays for the state “LL” (extra large schools) state championship tomorrow (Saturday, June 8, 12 p.m., Palmer Field, Middletown).
The #19th-ranked Wreckers face #4 Amity.
Fans are invited to gather at the Staples fieldhouse at 9:15 a.m., to give them a great send-off.
Tickets must be purchased through GoFan. The game will be live-streamed here on game day.
Club 203 celebrated the end of another great year on Wednesday.
Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities hosted a party at Ned Dimes Marina. It was their biggest turnout ever: 175 guests.
The Super Duper Weenie truck served delicious treats, with kind service. Guests enjoyed games, MoCA art projects like message-in-a-bottle and decorate-your-own kites, and cookies from Big G.
Club 203 volunteers were joined by others from the Westport Rotary Club. Special thanks go to the town’s Department of Human Services and the Commission on People with Disabilities. Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore stopped by to enjoy the event.
Staples High School students respect and admire Cathy Dancz Schager.
Now the Contemporary World Studies teacher has been recognized as a “US Presidential Scholars Most Influential Teacher,” and through the University of Connecticut Office of Early College Experience Teacher Appreciation Campaign.
Leigh Foran, a senior — also the Class of 2024 valedictorian and a US Presidential Scholar honoree — chose Schager as the teacher who inspired her, and contributed the most to her success as part of the Scholar process.
“I’m so thankful to have had a teacher like Ms. Schager who teaches her students to apply what we learn in the classroom to the real world,” Foran says. “She’s truly encouraged us to become global citizens, which I deeply admire.”
In addition, students participating in UConn’s ECE program nominated Schager for her dedication, passion and commitment to supporting students and creating an incredible UConn course experience.
Cathy Schager
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As the LGBTQ community celebrates Pride Month, many look back at a time when they were less certain of their place in the world.
On June 27 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library), Dr. Alan Downs discusses his book “The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Men’s World.”
Downs is a clinical psychologist. The vent is sponsored by Westport Pride.
He sends this photo, from Kings Highway North between Main Street and Canal Street …
(Photo/Michael Lonsdale)
… and writes: “Wiring in Westport is a mess. It depresses me to drive around.
“It’s time for the town to come down on independent vendors who are wiring massive amounts of cable with no protocol. Ridiculous. It is out of control!”
He’s right. Wires are always added — never subtracted.
There’s no incentive for cable or utility companies to remove unused or obsolete wires. It’s easier for them to leave it in place, and move on to the next job.
Of course, they have to return when it all comes tumbling down. But hey …
Nearly every Westporter of a certain age has a story about Paul Newman, and his Volvos.
(Mine: He picked me up hitchhiking a few times. “Hop in, son!” he’d say.)
“06880” reader Todd Suchotliff sends along a link to a car website called The Autopian.
The story is about the legendary actor and his souped-up Volvo wagons.
It’s an insanely long story, of interest to auto enthusiasts — but also anyone who knows Ian Warburg and the late Michael Brockman, 2 Westporters who feature prominently in the piece.
The article also mentions a “missing” Volvo wagon, of which Suchotliff says, “I’m pretty sure I’ve seen bit before around town, and parked at a house on Compo Road South close to Soundview. It’s a Volvo wagon, with an ‘RR’ emblem on its grille.”
If you’ve ever had an experience where you found yourself coming together with others whose mindsets, approaches, and/or backgrounds were completely different from your own — yet ended up with surprising or inspiring results — you’ll know what this Sunday will be like at the Westport Library.
In “Unexpected Human Pollination” (June 9, 2 to 4 p.m.), artists will share art and true stories about those times. The storytelling ends with a community conversation on the subject.
It’s the first public event of The Hive — the new project of Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito. The mission is to create opportunities to engage, discover connections and build understanding fueled by the arts, dialogue, ideas and transformation.
The HIVE partners delivers programs in “cross-pollinating community gatherings, arts immersions, and transformation workshops.”
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Art is soothing. So is a sound bath.
On June 20 (6:30 to 8 p.m.), Sorelle Gallery hosts a “Sound Bath Meditation” evening.
The evening begins with a look at Sorelle’s coastal exhibit, Summer Crush. Attendees will then relax on yoga mats for a soothing session led by Hummingbird healing Center founder Lisa Pak.
Tickets are $25 each. There is room for 20 guests. Click here to register, and for more details.
Johanna Keyser Rossi reports that a pair has been hanging around the high tower behind by the police station for a few weeks. Their most recent activity: building a nest.
Gardeners, dog walkers and parents of schoolchildren — some of whom fit in more than one of those categories — await tonight’s Representative Town Meeting agenda item #7 (Tuesday, June 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
Last month, the Board of Selectwomen approved a request by the Parks & Recreation Department to close all school grounds to anyone not a “student, staff member or invited guest” between 7:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m., whenever school is in session.
Tonight, the RTM will vote on a petition “to review, discuss and reject the new Parks & Recreation regulation, or modify it in order to preserve the gardening hours at the Westport Community Garden to their prior hours during school days (i.e. no gardening between 8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.).”
The prohibition is currently in effect, though apparently it has not been enforced due to the pending petition.
Wakeman Field — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — is part of the ban. It was not included for an exemption in the petition before the RTM.
When a section of Winslow Park off Compo Road North was handed to contractors, as a staging area for sewer work nearby, many folks feared the worst.
Industrial fencing went up. Gravel covered the grass. Paradise wasn’t exactly paved over, but — despite promises to the contrary — it sure seemed like it would never be back the way it was.
A year later, that area is as good as new.
If not better.
The fencing is gone. Gravel was trucked away. Grass grew back quickly. You’d never know the difference.
Thanks to Westport’s Public Works Department, and all others who made sure the contractors lived up to their promise.
Let’s hope the new sewers are in equally good shape.
New grass at Winslow Park’s former staging area. (Photo/Dan Woog)
And speaking again of Winslow Park: A memorial service for Johnny Barnett — called by some its “mayor” — will be held there Sunday (June 9, 10 a.m.). See the map below for the exact location.
This Sunday is also Barnett’s birthday.
Guests should bring folding chairs. There will be acoustic music from the Barnett children, and an informal reception after the memorial.
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Staples Tuition Grants does 2 things very well.
It raises money. Then it gives it away.
STG celebrated its 81st year last night at the high school auditorium. The organization awarded $380,000 in scholarships to 104 graduating seniors and students already in college.
The money goes to students with demonstrated financial need. Over 400 people donated to the general fund this year, or to named or endowed awards that honor Staples’ history — and support its future.
To learn more about Staples Tuition Grants, click here.
Some of the STG recipients, in the Staples courtyard. (Photo/Pam Einarsen)
After 23 years as director of the Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School — and 34 total years — Pat Rackliffe is retiring.
The Co-op was founded in 1955 by parents to provide a strong, supportive environment for their children’s early education. Pat exemplified that mission, through a strong sense of community with the students, staff, and parents.
Meanwhile, new director of education Libby Gustafson began June 1. She knows The Co-op well, having served as a junior counselor at age 14.
She later returned as a teacher, parent, contributor to the parent education series, and accreditation consultant.
But that’s not all. Pat Racklifee is Libby Gustafson’s mother!
Pat will be honored for her contributions this Friday (June 7). Email info@westportwestoncoop.org), or call 203-227-9318 for details.
Westport educators Lauren Francese and Anthony Battaglia have been honored for their commitment to excellence in social studies.
The awards were given by the Connecticut Council for the Social Studies.
Francese — the Westport Public Schools’ social studies coordinator — welcomed attendees at the annual meeting. She and several colleagues received an award for helping develop Connecticut’s new social studies standards.
Battaglia won the Pre-Service Excellence in Social Studies Education award, for exceptional student teachers. A pre-service teacher from the University of Bridgeport, he recently completed his student teaching in 8th grade at Coleytown Middle School.
At Staples, from which she graduated in 2010, Caroline Goldstein was very active in the school paper Inklings.
Her sophomore and senior year English teacher Gus Young inspired her love for writing through an independent study, and encouraged her to apply to a summer program at Simon’s Rock.
That led to her study of creative writing as an undergrad at New York University, where she also earned a master’s of fine arts.
It all paid off. The writer — who now goes by Caroline Wolff — just published her first book.
Amazon says of “The Wayside”:
When Kate Cleary’s son, Jake, dies at his elite liberal arts college, she refuses to believe it was suicide. Something sinister is at play, and Kate becomes determined to retrace Jake’s steps during his final days. Descending into a spiral of obsession as she finds herself up against unknown forces at every turn, Kate falls further into a dangerous mystery that brings her closer to a terrifying truth even Jake himself wanted to keep hidden.
Combining elements of dark academia and domestic fiction with a modern twist, “The Wayside” is a sharply observed story of suspense, devotion, and the secrets we keep from those who love us most.
Click here for more information, and to order. (Hat tip: Jessica Isaacs)
The Westport Fire Department responded to an outdoor structure fire next to a Burnham Hill residence just before midnight..
There were no injuries. The incident is being investigated by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office. The WFD was assisted by Westport Police and Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.
Burnham Hill fire (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)
Azerbaijan may not be the jazz capital of the world.
But Amina Figarova rose from her youth behind the Iron Curtain to become of the most celebrated pianists and composers on the international jazz scene.
This Thursday (June 6, 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), she makes her debut Jazz at the Post appearance.
She’s joined by flutist Bart Platteau, bassist Will Goble, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Tickets are $20 for the music; $15 for veterans and students. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Mary Lou Denke Rotella died last Wednesday, with her family by her side. She was 73.
The Saugatuck native and Staples High School graduate lived in Westport for most of her life.
She met her husband of 53 years, Angelo Rotella, through close friends.
She raised 3 children, while taking care of her parents and mother-in-law.
Mary Lee worked as a certified nursing assistant at a convalescent home, and in the Coleytown Elementary School cafeteria. In her spare time, she loved to bake, dance, fish and garden. Mary Lee was adamant about cutting her own grass and weed-whacking, and did her own lawn care until shortly before she died.
Her family says,, “Mary Lee’s favorite thing was to bring people together, and make others happy and feel cared for. We can only aspire to have a fraction of her energy, strength, and love for others.”
Mary Lee is survived by her children Dawn, Angelo Jr. (Natasha); and Lisa (Christian); grandchildren Brianna, Paddy, Darragh, Isabelle and Angelo III, and siblings Frank Denke Jr. and Pamela Fortner. She was predeceased by her husband, and brothers John, Merritt (Bobby) and Donald Denke.
Calling hours are at Harding Funeral Home on Thursday (June 6, 4 to 7 p.m.). Mass will be held Friday (June 7, 11 a.m., Assumption Church).
And finally … On this date in 1919, Congress approved the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. The measure — guaranteeing suffrage to women — went next to the 48 U.S. states for ratification.
(From the Community Gardens, Wakeman Field and Winslow Park to Broadway and Azerbaijan, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
39 Staples High School scholar-athletes were honored last night, at a unique dinner.
The coach of each varsity sport nominates one candidate, for his or her combined academic and athletic achievements. Each is given one question to answer on the spot, involving their interests, activities and passions.
Topics last night included flying as a solo pilot at age 16, overcoming a gymnastics neck injury to compete again, and experiences in clubs like Girls Who Code, Females in Finance, and AWARE.
Congratulations to all the scholar-athletes:
Fall sports: Charlotte Moody (fall cheerleading), Ben Lorenz (boys cross country), Emma Morris (girls cross country), Kathryn Asiel (field hockey), Troy Toglia(football), Jeremy Rosenkranz (boys golf), Avery Mueller (boys soccer), Coco Crombie (girls soccer), Libby Turner (girls swimming), Isabella Rivel (girls volleyball), Ronan Waddhwani (boys water polo).
Spring sports: Luke Oakley (baseball), Erin Oldale (girls golf), Ryan Skolnick (boys lacrosse), Caroline Cooper (girls lacrosse), Kellen Archibald (boys rugby), Katelyn Bouchard (girls rugby), Caitlyn Schwartz (sailing), Carley McGarry (softball), Jared Even (boys tennis), Sarah Marron (girls tennis), Luke Rabacs (boys outdoor track), Valentina Davis (girls outdoor track), Mason Siskind (boys volleyball), Kira Tomoda (girls water polo).
In addition, Staples athletic director VJ cited 2 coaches for career victory milestones: Laddie Lawrence (track, 2,000) and Jack McFarland (baseball, 300).
Sarullo also presented Bud Titsworth with a Block “S” award, for his longtime service to Staples athletics.
Bud Titsworth (left) and Staples athletic director VJ Sarullo, at last night’s Scholar-Athlete dinner. (Photo/Mark Sikorski)
Brendan Donohoe — known to many generations of Westporters as a friendly, knowledgeable and passionate maître d’ at several local restaurants, most notably his decades at Chez Pierre (now Nômade) — died suddenly on Thursday.
He was 88, and lived in Wilton.
The Newry, Ireland native joined the Merchant Marines as a young man, and traveled the world. He often recounted adventures from those days.
Brendan immigrated to the US in the 1960’s. He settled in Westport, and began his restaurant career.
He was a lifelong history enthusiast, especially that of Ireland and the Celtic tribes. He followed political and financial news, and was an officer and investor in several gold mining firms.
His rituals included breakfast daily with friends at Orem Diner, and a weekly lunch at the Sherwood Diner. He attended mass every Sunday.
Brendan was an avid runner. He completed over 30 marathons throughout the United States.
He is survived by his wife, Susan Butler; siblings Marie, Veronica, Kevin and Dermot; many nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog Gigi. He was predeceased by his sister, Shelia Barr.
Visiting hours will be held at Harding Funeral Home, Westport on Wednesday (June 5, 5 to 7 p.m. A Memorial Mass is set for at Our Lady of Fatima in Wilton on Thursday (June 6, 10 a.m.).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Fatima.
Yesterday, Major League Baseball celebrated its 4th annual Lou Gehrig Day.
The event — a joint effort of all 30 clubs, along with broadcast partners, and digital and social media — raises both awareness of ALS, and funds for research.
Also is also called Lou Gehrig’s Disease. MLB remembered the New York Yankees hero, and all who have been lost to the disease.
MLB’s strong advocacy for the project is due in large part to Chuck Haberstroh. The former Staples High School basketball star — whose mother Patty, a beloved Westporter who touched many lives through her work with the Department of Human Services, and who was afflicted with ALS — c0-chaired a committee that developed the league’s several initiatives.
MLB honored Patty Haberstroh yesterday, in their publicity for Lou Gehrig day.
PS: A special fundraising auction is underway now, through June 12. Click here for items, and to bid.
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If you missed the first showing of Homes with Hope’s 40th anniversary documentary: Don’t miss the next one.
It’s Sunday, June 9 (2 to 3:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall).
The free event showcases the non-profit’s 4 decades of housing the homeless, feeding the hungry, and offering hope to neighbors whose lives are not as fortunate as others’.
Former Westporter Livio Sanchez’s documentary film uses interviews and archival material (including long-ago video), to trace Homes with Hope’s history, from a controversial concept (with plenty of NIMBY and it’s-not-our-problem opposition), through its move from a drafty firehouse to an old maintenance shed on Jesup Road (now the Gillespie Center), and its current array of multi-pronged programs.
Jim Gillespie’s family will be honored at the showing. He played a major role in the founding and development of the Interfaith Housing Association, the original iteration of Homes with Hope.
The Gillespie Center was named in his honor Dr. Gillespie, a clinical psychologist, was killed when struck by a car in France in 1988.
The Gillespie Center. Dr. Gillespie’s family will be on hand June 9, for the showing of a documentary on Homes with Hope’s first 40 years.
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Temple Israel found a unique way to celebrate Pride yesterday.
Members baked rainbow challah, then handed them out at Jesup Green.
(Photo/Amy Schneider)
Meanwhile, here’s another great shot from yesterday. Their t-shirts and smiles say it all:
The future of pedestrian safety may be seen on Myrtle Avenue.
There — at Evergreen Avenue — pushing a button lights up the crosswalk.
It’s a bright, startling sight for drivers. They immediately slow down.
I’m not sure why this hasn’t gotten more publicity. But it seems like a relatively inexpensive, high-return solution to one of Westport’s biggest concerns.
This photo does not do justice to the crosswalk lights. (Hat tip and photo/Carl Addison Swanson and Jo Ann Miller)
This is a photo of lighted crosswalk (not in Westport). The “Xing” sign is also not in Westport.
Staples High School’s senior prom was Saturday night, at the Greenwich Hyatt Regency. “06880” received this photo, of attendees at a pre-party:
(From left): Michael Belpedio, Nate Goodman, Lucas Fischel, Jack Marshall, Aidan Kogan.
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The next Westport Book Shop Short Story Book Club meeting is June 27 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).
Attendees will read 2 selections from Alice Munro’s “Runaway” collection. “Soon” and “Silence” are connected stories that relate different stages of a character’s life, and explore themes including relationships, family and loss.
Copies are available at the Westport Library. The Westport Book Shop has 1 copy, for borrowing.
Registration is required. Call 203-349-5141 or email bookshop@westportbooksaleventures.org.
Westport Book Shop, on Jesup Road.
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Alexanderina “Ina” Lozyniak of Westport died on Friday.
A native of Aberdeen, Scotland, she came to the US as a teenager. She was a long time Westport resident.
Ina was an active member of Saugatuck Congregational Church. She enjoyed bingo at the Senior Center, movies and having lunch with friends. Ina was an avid reader, and loved challenging word puzzles.
Ina was predeceased by her husband Steve in 1998. She is survived by her children Kenny, Robbie, Stephanie and Stephen; daughters-in-law Carrie, Laurie and Marcy; son-in-law Mike; granchildren Michelle (JR), Kim (Phil), Nicole (Bill), John (Nicole), Kenny (Dani), Courtney, Kristen, Helen, Alex, Lindsey, Stevie and Shane; 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours are tomorrow (Tuesday, June 4, 5 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A funeral service will be held Wednesday *June 5, 1 p.m., Saugatuck Church in Westport), with interment to follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a favorite charity.
Ina Lozyniak
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from the Library Riverwalk.
But it’s a scene that’s repeated all around town, these late spring days:
Westport’s relationship with our sister city of Marigny-le-Louzon, France was forged in the aftermath of World War II.
But it began soon after D-Day in 1944. Westporter Bob Loomis — a gun sergeant — was in the Normandy town, just 25 miles from Utah Beach.
A couple of weeks later another Westporter — heavy machine gunner Clay Chalfant — moved through Marigny with his company on their way to Belgium.
When the war ended, Charlotte MacLear — head of the French department at Staples High School, and a graduate of prestigious Sorbonne Université — sparked a campaign to “officially adopt Marigny” and help its recovery.
Our town sent clothes, money and Christmas gifts, thanks to fundraising that included selling toys and buckets with designs painted by Westport artists.
In return, Marigny created the “Westport School Canteen,” and named the town’s largest square “Place Westport.” MacLear visited our sister town 3 times. Each time, she was honored and adored.
That friendship remains strong. In 2020, Marigny officials named a room in their Town Hall for MacLear.
This week, Westporters Jeffrey Mayer and Nancy Diamond are visiting, sending our greetings, and giving gifts from our town.
This morning — 4 days, before the anniversary of D-Day — René Gautier wrote to “06880.”
As a child, he received some of those presents from Westport. He has been stalwart in maintaining our friendship ever since. René said:
As part of the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the landing and the liberation of Normandy — but also for the future! — we would like to know, to honor their graves, if soldiers from Westport or the surrounding area were killed in the fighting of 1944 and buried in one of the US cemeteries in Normandy.
Our association will undertake to symbolically decorate this grave with flowers.
What a generous, beautiful offer.
If you know of any American soldiers from Fairfield County who are buried in a US cemetery in Normandy, email 06880blog@gmail.com.
We will let René, and all our friends in Marigny, know.
They will do the rest.
Marigny and Westport are united in red, white and blue.
The film that debuted Number 1 at the box office last month follows 4 journalists on a road trip from New York to Washington, as society collapses.
Kirsten Dunst plays Lee, a photojournalist determined to interview the president in the midst of chaos.
How well — or poorly — does the movie depict wartime reporting?
Lynsey Addario knows. The 1991 Staples High School graduate, and Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times photojournalist, has covered the war in Ukraine, and conflicts in the Middle East and Africa.
This week, “On the Media”‘s Brooke Gladstone interviews her about her real-life experiences, and the fictional “Civil War.” Click here to listen.
Lynsey Addario
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Kai Nee’s 15-strikeout, 2-hit, complete game pitching performance paced the Staples baseball team to a 7-0 shutout of Newtown yesterday, in the CIAC “LL” (extra large schools) state tournament quarterfinals.
The 19th-seeded Wreckers advance to Tuesday’s semifinal, at a site and time to be determined.
Their foe is familiar: Fairfield Warde. The Mustangs are ranked second in the state tourney.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA does a lot of things right.
Including making feel-good videos.
Longtime Westporters Bob and Doree Levy are featured in a recent reel, explaining how much they enjoy the Wilton Road facility.
Doree does Aquafit. Bob helps out at a class for Parkinson’s patients. Together, they donated the “alligator” that spouts water at the kids’ splash pool.
The Y epitomizes the Three Musketeers’ motto: “All for one, one for all,” Bob says.
And, Doree adds — referring to the Y’s original acronym — “I’m not young. I’m not a man. I’m not Christian.”
But, she notes, today’s Westport YMCA is all about community and inclusion.
Suitable for all levels and ages, it’s just $10. That includes a garden tour and materials.
Guests can collect botanical materials for a Gelli plate printmaking activity. Staff and volunteers with the Center will guide participants in creating artwork using leaves, petals, twigs and more from the inspiring landscape.
From 1 to 5:30 p.m. on June 21 — the day after this year’s solstice — J. McLaughlin and the Westport Country Playhouse collaborate on an afternoon of sips and shopping.
15% of all sales will benefit the Playhouse.
Can’t make it that day to Compo Acres Shopping Center? Call the store (475-284-2495) to place an order.
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Pippa Bell Ader offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo. She writes:
The Old Hill albino deer was spotted recently on Wright Street. It has grown quite a bit since I last saw it.”
And finally … Marvin Hamlisch was born on this date in 1944.
The composer/conductor he is one of few people ever to achieve an EGOT (winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony).
He died in 2012, age 68.
In addition to the 2 memorable songs below — from “The Sting” (starring Westporter Paul Newman) and “A Chorus Line” — he wrote the score to “The Swimmer,” the movie filmed largely in Westport in 1966.
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The annual event — organized by the Westport Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department, and sponsored once again by longtime Westport residents/Staples High School graduates Melissa and Doug Bernstein — is Tuesday, July 2.
Tickets to the fireworks — shot from a barge in Long Island Sound, and the culmination of a day of picnics, parties and fun all along Compo Beach — are available in the front lobbies of both the Westport Police Department on Jesup Road, and the Parks & Rec Office in Longshore Club Park, near the first tee.
Tickets ($50 per car) allow entrance into the Compo parking lots. They are on sale 24/7 at the police station now, and during business hours at Parks & Rec (starting June 1). All sales are cash or check; no credit cards.
Proceeds from the fireworks help fund PAL operating expenses. The organization serves thousands of youngsters each year, through sports programs and scholarships. PAL also runs the ice skating rink at Longshore.
Doug Bernstein (5th from left) hands Police Chief Foti Koskinas the ceremonial first fireworks ticket yesterday. Also on hand (from left): Parks & Rec operations director Carmen Roda, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, PAL president Craig Bergamo, Melissa Bernstein, Parks & Rec interim director Rick Giunta and Lieut. Matthew Gouveia. (Photo/Dan Woog)
This afternoon (Friday), Westport Police officers will carry the Flame of Hope through town, in support of Special Olympics of Connecticut.
Norwalk Police will hand off the Flame at the Westport/Norwalk town line on Route 1 (Post Road West) at approximately 12:00 p.m.
Westport officers will carry the torch along the Post Road, and pass it off to Fairfield police at the Fairfield border.
Police will escort the torch through town. Residents are encouraged to watch and support this great cause.
The Special Olympics torch run last year: Post Road at the Sherwood Island Connector. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Dunville’s — the 40-plus-year-old hangout in the heart of Saugatuck — celebrated its grand re-opening last night.
The restaurant/bar is now called Little Pub @ Dunville’s. Doug Grabe — the owner of the local chain — is keeping the name and vibe of the well-loved local institution. It’s open 7 days a week, for lunch and dinner.
Cutting the ceremonial ribbon (actually a caution tape) last night, from row from left: RTM member Sal Liccione, Planning & Zoning chair Paul Lebowitz, selectwomen Jen Tooke and Candice Savin, State Senator Ceci Maher, RTM member Matthew Mandell, owner Doug Grabe. Rear: RTM member Andrew Colabella, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, RTM member Andrew Bloom.
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As graduation nears, every night brings a different celebration.
All are special. But the High Honors dinner at Staples last night was particularly meaningful.
Twenty students — the top 4% of the Class of 2024 — were honored for their achievements.
Each invited one teacher or counselor. Each educator spoke for a few minutes about “their” student.
Bonds between the teachers and teenagers were strong and deep. A wide variety of disciplines was represented: English, social studies, science, math and music.
There were stories of STEM students who found loves for literature and government; of conversations about life before and after school that transcended classrooms; of challenges made and surpassed.
Each student thanked their teachers — and their parents — for getting them where they are today.
There are many reasons to be fearful about the future of our world. Last night offered 21 reasons to be very, very optimistic.
The High Honors students were Kathryn Asiel, Emerson Briggs, Coco Crombie, Gabriela de Brito, Eitan Eiger, Dylan Fiore, Peter Loranger, Defne Merih, Neva Mermagen, Connor Ng, Ellen Ou, Mabel Propper, Jeremy Rosenkranz, Jameson Russell, Kaitlyn Seo, Elizabeth Turner, Darren Weng, Gabriel Weng, valedictorian Leigh Foran and salutatorian Andrew Berkowitz.
The teachers and staff members they honored were Rasha Tarek, Will Jones, Deborah Slocum, Noreen McGoldrick, Robert Shamberg, Alexandra McHale, Michael Mezzo, Maxim Kolb, Heather Wirkus, Ann Neary, Jon Shepro, Dominick Messina, Heather Colletti-Houde, Joe Barahona and Brian Tippy.
Staples High School’s 2024 High Honors graduates-to-be.
Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibition, “Summer Crush,” showcases original paintings by artists who draw inspiration from water and the coast in a wide variety of styles, from abstract to hyper-realistic.
The exhibition opens on June 15, 2024, with a reception from 2-4 p.m.
An artists’ talk and Q-and-A at 2:30 features Julia Contacessi, Kelly Rossetti, Nealy Hauschildt and Tony Iadicicco. Light refreshments with a summer rosé will be served.
The show runs through July 6. For more information, click here.
“Summer Crush” at Sorelle Gallery.
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Carl Addison Swanson has seen plenty of violations of this rule.
He reminds “06880” readers: If you raise your hand to traffic at a crosswalk, you have the right of the way.
Drivers: Stop for pedestrians who raise their hands at crosswalks.
But pedestrians: Look both ways, to make sure those drivers have stopped!
Stop for pedestrians!
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Have you seen today’s “Westport … Naturally” deer?
Richard Fogel has. And, he says of this one — seen here at the corner of East Main Street and Whitney Road Extension — it is “a family pet. Crazy. You can walk up and touch it.”
And finally … today is the final day of National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month.
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When she entered Staples High School 2 years ago as a sophomore, after 6 years in Europe, Kylie Kirkham was overwhelmed with choices.
What courses to take? What clubs to get involved with? How could she choose, and who could help her make those decisions?
She settled on Chemistry as one option, and realized she liked science. She volunteered in the Norwalk Hospital discharge lounge, and took the rigorous Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service course. She hopes to pursue a pre-med track in college.
Staples High School science options. Electives include astronomy, biotechnology, 3D engineering, environmental science, animal behavior, horticulture, marine biology, aerospace, science research and much more.
Kylie does not have a lot of spare time. But she wanted to pay what she learned forward, to help younger students make sense of the sometimes overwhelming array of Staples requirements, prerequisites — and wonderful possibilities.
She formed a club called SciMentors. The goal was to help middle school students understand what their high school science future could look like.
The other day her club held their first SPRKS fair, at Bedford Middle School.
The acronym means Students Pursuing Real-world Knowledge of Science. It was interactive, engaging, and a great success.
Leearning about blood pressure, at the SciMentors event.
Nearly 3 dozen youngsters, and their parents, learned about Staples science — and built connections with students in those courses.
Club members created displays, showing off different areas of science. Some offered activities; others performed experiments, had trivia games, or demonstrated equipment.
One exhibit at the SPRKS fair.
Then came speakers. Staples biology and forensics teacher Heather Wirkus talked about course selection and research opportunities. Westport Volunteer EMS president Michael Burns related his experiences.
Nurse Cristin Ronca discussed work/life balance.
A panel of Staples students then answered questions.
Kylie was excited to see students taking writing in notebooks her club had created, and paid for through fundraising.
And everyone enjoyed treats, courtesy of Popup Bagels.
Participants at the SPRKS fair (from left): Isla Goldberg, SciMentors vice president; Heather Wikus, Staples science teacher; Kylie Kirkham, founder and president); Sophie Statkiewicz, vice president; Michael Burns, WVEMS president; Cristin Ronca, nurse.
Kylie will graduate next year. But she wants SciMentors to continue for years. She is now mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Soon, she hopes, some of the students who were at this year’s inaugural SPRKS fair will pass on their Staples knowledge to those who follow them.
No one can predict how any science experiment will turn out. But — thanks to Kylie Kirkham and her club — the chances of success for this one are sky-high.
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