Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Float Winners, Baseball Winners, Scholarship Winners …

Posted on May 28, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Float Winners, Baseball Winners, Scholarship Winners …

Wrapping up yesterday’s great — and weather-dodged — Memorial Day parade:

For the first time since the Spanish-American War, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston did not win the “Best Float” award.

There’s a good reason: They were concerned that rain might damage their power connections.

Congratulations to the VFW: the new winner of the “Best Float” competition.

Other winners were:

  • Best Youth Group: Westport Little League
  • Best Community Organization: Staples High School and Bedford/Coleytown Middle School Marching Bands (tie)
  • Most Colorful Float: Westport Garden Club.

Congratulations to all!

 

The winning float. (Photo courtesy of Patty Kondub)

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Our Memorial Day parade is timeless.

Don’t believe me? Check out this video, sent by Mark Comden.

From 1960.

PS: He’s one of the little kids shown in the home movie.

Sure, a few things have changed. The real estate office is gone from the Riverside Avenue/Post Road West corner.

The fire truck that looked so modern in the last year of the Eisenhower administration might have been one of the “vintage” vehicles in yesterday’s parade.

But so much else is so familiar.

And probably will be 64 years from now, at the 2088 parade.

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The Staples High School baseball team are winners on and off the field.

On Sunday, members spent a rare day off buddying with the Westport Winners program.

They were supporting youngsters with disabilities, as they played against (and partied with) the Fairfield Red Storm.

From left: Staples classmates Max Jossen, Harrison Putman and Mikey Linn.

Wrecker head coach Jack McFarland was there too.

It was a grand slam, for sure.

From left: Longtime buddy/player pair Connor Brill and Henry Cashen.

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Want to keep the Saugatuck River beautiful?

Everyone is welcome to join the Saugatuck Church community this Sunday (June 2, 12:30 p.m.), on a clean-up mission.

The meeting place is Riverside Park (427 Riverside Avenue).

The clean-up involves wading in the river. Bring a reusable water bottle, gloves, long sleeves, pants and close-toed shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Sunscreen and bug spray are recommended.

To RSVP, and for questions, email Jberkowsky1@gmail.com.

Saugatuck River (Photo/Luisa Ismert)

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The Westport Police Benevolent Association Scholarship Foundation has awarded grants to 22 students attending college this fall.

Wilbur Scholarship applicants must be children of Westport Police Department officers, who have done community service and have a GPA of at least 3.0.

Recipients are Zoe Koskinas, Samuel and Jonathan Wolf, Madison and Gabrielle Hayes, Brandon Smith, Ava Wooldridge, Olivia and Grace Biagiotti, Sara Sabin, Samantha and Joseph Sabin, Meghan Velky, Jaden Aliberti, Emma and Jacqueline Kelley, Alexis Broderick, April and Edward Nowinski, and Zachary Benson.

The Foundation also awards Deputy Chief John Anastasia and Chief Bill Stefan Scholarships to Staples seniors who enter college in the fall to study law or a law enforcement-related field.  The scholarships recognize both community relations and athletic accomplishments.

This year’s honorees are Kervin Joseph and  and Juan Nieves, Jr.

The WPBA Scholarship Foundation thanks founders and principal donors Joan Poster and the late Dennis Poster.

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Staples High School’s Project Sunshine Club is part of a national organization that sends trained volunteers to visit children in hospitals nationwide and in Canada, Kenya and Israel.

The students are under 18, so they cannot volunteer themselves. Instead, the Staples club packs activity kits for children with medical challenges.

The 30 members plan a fundraiser that will appeal to many young people: a spikeball tournament. It’s set for June 15 at the Staples High School football field (noon).

Teams of 2 people can register, for just $20. There’s a $500 first prize.

All are welcome. Those who can’t attend (or are not spikeball players) are welcome to donate. Click here for the link to register and/or contribute.

PS: Staples’ Sunshine Club founder Max Saperstein has also helped start 17 similar clubs in high schools around the country. For information on how to start a Sunshine Club, email maxsaperstein@icloud.com.

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An intriguing show comes to Toquet Hall on June 7 (7 p.m.).

“Jackson Crash” is the creation of Jonathan Riedel. The artistic director of Riedel Dance Theater, and lead singer/songwriter of Rubber Skulls, embodies with pathos and irreverent humor a young man’s journey from bullying and parental neglect to discovering his queerness, starting a family, becoming a truck driver, and searching for his own identity -0 all while being chased by a ghost from his past.

After the 90-minute performance and refreshments, Riedel and 2 other creators the show will talk about the writing and development of the story, and how it relates to the audience’s lives.

The event is sponsored by Westport Pride. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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This week’s Jazz at the Post headliners are Harvie S. — a widely recorded bassist — and James Weidman, first call pianist for big names. They’re joined by fiery drummer Malik Washington and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Shows are Thursday, May 30, at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399. Dinner service begins at 7. The music cover is $20; $15 for veterans and students.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Every day, there’s a new bit of beauty to enjoy in Westport.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” scene comes from Roseville Road:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally …

And finally … happy 79th birthday to John Fogerty. I’ve played tribute to his band — Creedence Clearwater Revival — and I will again. So today I’ll honor his solo work. (PS: Thanks again for that great Levitt Pavilion concert in 2017. I’m still smiling.)

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School Safety Officers: First Year Draws Praise

Posted on May 28, 2024 | 5 comments

When it was first proposed several years ago, there was some pushback to the idea of a School Resource Officer at Staples High School.

Why, some people wondered, should a uniformed police officer walk the halls?

Today, the SRO is an integral part of Staples. Staff and students admire and trust “Officer Ed” Wooldridge.

He helps keep the school safe — and has been an important first responder in a few situations.

Just as importantly, he’s another resource for students with concerns about everything from mental health and social media to drugs, alcohol and sexual assault.

Nearly every student knows him. Their banter is easy. He’s a daily reminder that the Westport Police Department’s job is to make everyone feel more — not less — secure.

Staples’ School Resource “Officer Ed” Wooldridge.

A year ago, when Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice and Police Chief Foti Koskinas proposed adding 4 School Safety Officers, some Westporters again balked.

Why, they wondered, was a police presence needed around our elementary schools? What kind of message would that send? Was the expense worth it?

Nearly a year after the SSOs began patrolling parking lots and school perimeters; interacting with staff, students and parents; dealing with occasional incidents in and around 8 schools, their value is clear.

Even opponents agree: SSOs work.

Sgt. Sean Kelley oversees Westport’s School Safety Officer program.

In the aftermath of the Sandy Hook massacre, Koskinas says, Westport schools and the police focused on safety measures like bollards, film on windows and numbers above outside doors. Then-superintendent Elliott Landon opposed a police presence inside schools.

His successor Colleen Palmer, and a different Board of Education, re-examined security issues, and proposed an SRO in every school. The Representative Town Meeting voted it down, by a very narrow margin.

In 2017 — as school shootings continued– an SRO for Staples was approved.

Then came Parkland and Uvalde. Scarice — the new superintendent — was familiar with the positive effects of a police presence in and around schools.

He, Koskinas and the Board of Education developed a plan to augment Wooldridge — Staples’ School Resource Officer — with 4 School Safety Officers.

Each would be responsible for 2 campuses: Staples/Bedford Middle School; Coleytown Middle/Elementary; Kings Highway/Saugatuck, and Long Lots/Greens Farms.

Their roles would include helping with student drop-offs and pick-ups; checking doors and perimeters; enforcing speed zones around schools; responding to emergencies, and being available for advice and guidance.

Part of the School Safety Officers’ job is managing traffic, like this that backs up on Post Road West at Kings Highway Elementary School. (Photo/Dick Lowenstein)

Choosing the 4 SSOs was a deliberate process. Koskinas did not want it to be a burdensome assignment; he wanted people who enjoyed being in a school environment.

The officers went through a lengthy interview process, and were vetted by the Board of Ed, and assistant superintendent for human resources John Bayers.

Sergeant Sean Kelley — who oversees the program — and Deputy Chief Ryan Paulsson met with parent groups, to explain what SSOs would and would not do.

The School Safety Officers are Shane Pucci, Ned Batlin, Rachel Hall and Dennis Broderick.

The first year of the program has been very successful, say Koskinas, Kelley and school personnel.

SSOs have identified traffic choke points, helping vehicles move more smoothly in and around schools, and worked with administrators on communicating changes.

On Easton Road near the Coleytown schools, the SSO has made over 150 traffic stops.

One SSO covers the 2 Coleytown schools.

They make sure buildings are secure, and look for vulnerabilities that can be addressed.

Kelley — who earlier in his career worked in the youth division — calls the first year “a really good experience. The SSOs are definitely involved with schools and staffs. They’ve been integrated even more than I expected. There are lots of fist bumps every day.

“They’ve gotten to know the kids. They go to their plays, and other events.”

The SSOs have gotten to know parents too. “We get a lot of thank-you, and ‘we’re happy you’re here.'”

Bedford Middle School principal Dr. Adam Rosen says his school has “benefited substantially from the School Safety Office program.

Staples High School SRO Ed Wooldridge and Staples/Bedford Middle SSO Shane Pucci wear orange ribbons, to raise awareness of teen dating violence.

“Our SSO, Officer Shane Pucci, has quickly become a welcome and contributing member of the Bedford community.

“While he assists our students, staff and parents with school functions and campus operations, it’s when students invite him to play basketball with them during recess that demonstrates the positive connection and trust he’s engendered within our school community.”

Officer Batlin — the SSO at Long Lots and Greens Farms Elementary School — calls this “a fantastic year. The school staffs, the parents, and most importantly the students have been amazing.

Ned Batlin — shown here at the 4th of July fireworks — is a popular School Safety Officer at 2 schools. 

“Initially they were very curious about me and my role on campus. Now, I’ve blended into being just another member.

“I love interacting with the kids. They have so many questions.

“Last weekend I was coaching my son’s Fairfield lacrosse team in a big tournament in New Canaan. A lot of Westport students came up and said hi. One of the dads I coach with said, ‘that’s so cool!'”

Officers Dennis Broderick (Coleytown Middle and Elementary School) and Rachel Hall (Saugatuck/Kings Highway).

“We threw a lot at them. They’ve really stepped up,” says Koskinas.

“We’ll never know what they deter,” he notes.

But what Koskinas, Kelley and the SSOs do know is this: They’ve found a place, in and around every school in town.

(“06880” covers Westport’s schools, Police Department, and much more. If you appreciate our hyper-local work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Fine Arts Winner, Compo Kickoff, Leaf Blower Blowback …

Posted on May 26, 2024 | 18 comments

Many things make the Westport Fine Arts Festival special.

Besides the wide variety of art and artists — and the friendly vibe all along Main Street — there is the Saturday night artists’ reception.

After a long day of chatting up customers (and just-lookers), dozens of painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelers, ceramists and woodworkers gather at Christ & Holy Trinity’s Branson Hall a few yards away.

They relax, over good food (and an open bar).

There are a couple of brief speeches thanking the Westport Downtown Association organizers. Then come the awards.

This year’s “Best in Show” winner was GM Webb of Baltimore. A sculptor working with wire, his selection was roundly applauded by his fellow artists.

Click here to see some of his work. Better yet, head down to Main Street today, to see it in person — and all his fellow artists’ too.

The Fine Arts Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

GM Webb, with his “Best in Show” ribbon. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Fine Arts Festival is in its 51st year.

The Parks & Recreation Department’s Summer Kickoff party at Compo Beach is in its first.

But it too was a huge success yesterday.

A couple of hundred families enjoyed activities like touch-a-truck, face painting, an obstacle course, and activities run by Longshore Sailing School, and golf and tennis instructors.

Plus (of course) food trucks.

Westport Police, Fire Department, EMS and Public Works were involved too.

Congratulations to all, for the start of a great new tradition.

Selectwomen Andrea Moore and Jen Tooker, Parks & Recreation interim director Rick Giunta and operations manager Carm Roda join Parks & Rec employees at the Compo Beach Kickoff.

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There was even more going on yesterday than the Fine Arts Festival and Compo Summer Kickoff.

The Levitt Pavilion hosted 3 bands — Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The UN, and Dogs in a Pile — in an hours-long festival.

Just like Main Street and the beach, the place was packed.

Just one more example of why, if you left town for the holiday weekend — well, you missed a lot of fun.

Levitt Pavilion 3-band festival. (Photo/Alex Sherman)

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One of the unfortunate consequences of the gas-powered leaf blower ban that went into effect May 15 has been harassment of landscapers.

“06880” has heard of several instances in which Westporters have screamed at employees using the blowers, demanding they stop, then growing even angrier when the men do not know why they’re being yelled at. Some do not even speak English.

Landscapers work for their employers. Their employers work for homeowners.

It’s unfair to blame men who are simply doing the job they’re instructed to do.

It’s also the easy way out.

Talk to the homeowner. Call the landscape company owner.

And to report a violation, email ckelly@westportct.gov, or write: Conservation Department, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

These are not the people to yell at.

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The Staples boys lacrosse team did it for the first time: winning the FCIAC (league) championship, in dramatic fashion. (Click here to read the stirring story.)

And Charlie Scott has done it again.

The Staples High School senior has produced another spectacular highlight reel of Thursday’s huge win.

It’s the latest in his year-long series of great videos. And it may be his best yet.

Click below to see:

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Last night’s perfect holiday weather brought the first big outdoor dining crowd of spring to Church Lane.

Tables outside Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo were all filled. It was a hint of many more such nights to come.

Today is predicted to be cloudy. As for Memorial Day … uh oh.

Dining al fresco at Spotted Horse. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features blue-eyed grass, growing at the base of a spicebush. Both plants are native to our region, says photographer Melissa Chang.

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And finally … Sally Ride was born on this day in 1951. She was the first American female astronaut, the youngest American astronaut to have flown in space (32 years old), and the first astronaut known to be LGBT. She died of pancreatic cancer in 2012, age 61.

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(As Westport heads into summer, “06880” is your place to find out what’s happening, where and when. Plus what just happened. Please support our work, by clicking here to contribute. Thanks!)

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Long Lots Honors A Champion Grad

Posted on May 26, 2024 | 2 comments

“06880” intern Talia Varsano writes:

For most Westport students, Friday was just one day closer to the end of the school year.

At Long Lots Elementary School, it was a chance to celebrate a national champion.

And a Long Lots alum.

Hundreds of kids — wearing Michigan hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts — gathered in the auditorium to welcome football hero Jake Thaw.

They honored the 2023 NCAA football national champion, chanting “Jake Thaw! Jake Thaw! Jake Thaw!” as he walked across the stage.

The wide receiver and punt returner greeted his former physical education teacher Mark Carmody, who asked him questions submitted by students.

They ranged from what his typical day looks like, to whether he likes syrup on or off his pancakes (on, he said).

The afternoon began with a montage showing Thaw playing football and basketball at Long Lots, Bedford Middle School and Staples High, then catching passes for the Wolverines.

Thaw said, “I’m 22 now. Coming back here, I have memories of being with my friends and doing things like walking through the halls, recesses, lunch — and Mr. Carmody’s classes of course.”

Carmody reminded the students of the book “What Would You Do With a Chance,” which they all read. It features a child who is afraid to take a chance, and misses out on opportunities.

Jake noted that when you have a dream, “take the chance. Take a crack at it.”

“Jake Thaw Day,” at Long Lots Elementary School.

“Who in here wants to play professional sports?” he asked. More than half the auditorium raised their hands.

“I believe you all can do it,” he said.

In addition to leading his Staples football and baseball teams as captain, Jake was named to the all-state academic team. He was also a News12 scholar-athlete.

“It’s not all just being a good athlete to play at a great college,” he said.

“You also have to be well rounded and work hard in school.”

Jake Thaw, with Long Lots friends (and Leo the Lion). (Photos and video/Talia Varsano)

One child asked Thaw if he gets nervous before games.

“Understand, whether it’s a football game or a game at recess, it’s normal to have anxiety,” Jake said.

“But the more you prepare for the moment, everything blacks out, and you’ll be ready to roll.”

His visit neared an end with a proclamation making May 24 “Jake Thaw Day.” A banner in his honor will hang in the school gym.

The students, along with school mascot Leo the Lion — and Jake — ended the afternoon by singing Long Lots’ spirit song.

Jake Thaw

(“06880” proudly covers the achievements of Staples High School graduates — and those of all other Westport schools. If you enjoy those stories, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Staples Lacrosse & Pops, Wynston Browne, RTM Agenda …

Posted on May 25, 2024 | 2 comments

The Staples High School boys lacrosse team is 2-time defending state champions.

But until Thursday night, they’d never won an FCIAC (league) championship.

They did it dramatically, in Wilton. Adam Udell scored 3 goals in just 4 minutes, 20 seconds, rallying his 5th-seeded squad from a 6-3 deficit late in the 4th quarter, to a 6-6 draw.

Just 8 seconds into sudden-death overtime, Udell fired a shot. His 4th — and most dramatic goal — gave the Wreckers the win, over #2 Darien.

This was not the first clutch score for Udell. A year ago, as a sophomore, he stole an inbounds pass in the basketball state semifinal, then calmly scored a layup, to lead Staples past Fairfield Warde, and into the finals.

The lacrosse title — keyed also by goalie Josh Marcus — capped a very satisfying 5 days for Staples. During the FCIAC tournament they thrashed Wilton (9-1) and New Canaan (11-5), avenging regular season losses.

Darien also beat the Westporters, in the regular season.

The goal now is to be the first Staples boys lax team to win both an FCIAC and state title.

The road to the Connecticut crown is not easy. It begins Wednesday at home (5:30 p.m.) vs. Trumbull. Tough teams like Ridgefield, Fairfield Prep and New Canaan lie ahead.

But — with Udell, Marcus, coach Will Koshansky and a host of talented players — the Wreckers are ready.

Click here to see the full FCIAC final. Click below for Udell’s 4 goals (including his game winner), and the wild celebration that followed, courtesy of The Ruden Report.

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Speaking of Staples, a reminder: Free tickets are available at 9 a.m. this Wednesday (May 29), for the annual Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion.

This year’s show is Friday, June 7 (lawn opens at 6 p.m.; concert at 7; BYO chair; food trucks on site). The always sold-out event features the Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orphenians, Choralaires and other small group ensembles.

Once again, media personality David Pogue will serve as the warm, welcoming emcee.

Click this link — staplesmusic.org — beginning Wednesday at 9 a.m. Tickets are free, but a $15 contribution is suggested to help offset production costs.

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Speaking of the Levitt Pavilion: They’re part of today’s big Westport day.

In addition to the Fine Arts Festival downtown, and the Parks & Recreation Department Summer Kick-off at Compo, there’s a 3-band festival at our favorite outdoor entertainment venue.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The UN and Dogs in a Pile — those are all band names — take the stage, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The gate opens at 4.

Food trucks on site include the Blind Rhino, Melt Mobile, Little Pub Lobster Roll and the Dough Girls Wood-Fired Pizza.

Limited tickets ($55; $125 premium) remain. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

More Levitt news: Super Sonic Shorties has just been signed. They’ll be there June 14, en route to the Northlands Festival.

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Among the items on the agenda for the next Representative Town Meeting (Tuesday, June 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium):

A $265,000 appropriation from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, to develop a Parks Master Plan.

A $990,000 appropriation for Phase I of the Cross Highway School Zone Corridor Improvements.

A petition from Westporters “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.).”

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Congratulations to News 12 Connecticut — and to Wynston Browne.

Our local cable station was named an Edward R. Murrow Award New England regional winner, in the annual Radio Television Digital News competition.

News 12 won in the “Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” category, in the Television/Large Market division, for their broadcast of “My Name is Wynston Browne.”

The segment featured Wynston, a Staples High School junior who — despite being a non-speaking autistic young man — has learned to communicate using a typing device. In 2 years, he has shared his remarkable mind and keen insights with the world.

It’s a very inspiring story, told with care and compassion by News 12.

Regional winners advance to the national competition. Winners will be announced in August. Click here for a list of all New England awards.

Wynston Browne (Photo/Dan Woog)

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As Memorial Day nears, American flags are sprouting around town.

Lauri Weiser was heartened to see these, lining the Lansdowne condominium driveway:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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An inspiring photo of a different kind is Andrew Colabella’s image of Long Island Sound.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

It’s a nice reminder too that — though the sign says otherwise — lifeguard coverage starts Monday, at Compo and Burying Hill Beaches, and the Longshore pool.

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But Westporters got an early start yesterday on the holiday weekend. This was the Friday late-afternoon scene at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Unfortunately, another tradition continues: Hook’d’s closed doors.

Despite the crowds — and their supposed closing time of 7:30 p.m. — the doors were locked before then.

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The sold-out crowd at Thursday’s Westport Library conversation with James Comey was surprised.

Most attendees figured the former FBI director, former Bridgewater Associates counsel and former Westporter would talk about his new book “Westport” — the plot involves the fictional world’s biggest hedge fund, Saugatuck Associates — and avoid or deflect questions about the most controversial aspect of his career: his decision in late October 2016 to announce that the FBI had reopened an investigation into presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s emails.

But under pointed and persistent questioning from Westport’s Dave Briggs — a well-established TV personality — Comey was honest, self-reflective, forthcoming, and quite opinionated.

If you missed the event, no problem. The Library’s recorded it. Click below, for an insightful, insider’s view of Washington and the world:

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This sign was just posted near the “blue house” at 233 Hillspoint Road, diagonally across from Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

(Photo/Michael Friedland)

It’s big.

There are substantial cement footings.

And since when has Westport been a “city”?!

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Brian Lewis — chef ad owner of The Cottage and OKO — adds a new dining twist this summer.

BANA is a “seasonal and elevated pop-up dining experience. Each menu draws inspiration from global gastronomic traditions and cultural richness, promising an exhilarating exploration of flavors” in Fairfield and Westchester Counties.

That first BANA is Saturday, July 20 (7 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm). The event celebrates “the treasures and techniques of both the New England and Japanese coastlines.” Lewis’ tasting menu will showcase fish, shellfish, and vegetables sourced from the New England coastline and local farms.

Tickets are $200 per person, or $275 per person with a special sake and wine pairing (including sales tax and a 22% service fee).

25% of all proceeds support Brian Lewis’ Family Meal Foundation. It provides comfort and support through delicious meals, brought to the homes of people in need when they are healing from the loss of a loved one, or face medical and emotional challenges.

For tickets and more information, click here.

Chef Brian Lewis

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Westport is looking particularly beautiful these days.

Among the spots to admire: Lynda Ialeggio’s patio, on Old Mill Beach. It’s a perfect “Westport … Naturally” scene this Memorial Day weekend.

(Photo/Lynda Ialeggio)

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And finally … on this date in 1878, Gilbert and Sullivan’s “H.M.S. Pinafore” opened in London.

(It’s a holiday weekend. But “06880” never takes a break. We’re here for you 24/7/365 — 366, this leap year. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!

 

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“06880” Podcast: David Lloyd

Posted on May 20, 2024 | 1 comment

David Lloyd is one of ESPN’s longest-running anchors. He’s been with the network for 27 years. Right now, he’s the 7 a.m. host of Sports Center.

Before ESPN, David was a sportscaster in Macon, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Sacramento, and San Diego.

He’s a native Westporter, and a graduate of Staples High School and Colgate University.

The other day, David hustled down to the Westport Library from Bristol, and reversed roles: He was the interviewee, not the interviewer.

We chatted about the sports landscape when he was a young athlete here; his route to ESPN; memorable moments from his career, and what it’s like working for the “worldwide leader in sports.”

But we also talked about The Susan Fund. For 40 years, the non-profit organization that provides scholarships for students with cancer has honored the legacy of his late sister. That work is as meaningful as anything David does.

Click below for our conversation about sports, and much more.

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Roundup: Day Of Champions, Sunrise Rotary Service, Winslow Park Poop …

Posted on May 20, 2024 | 9 comments

Every elementary school kid in town, it seemed, raced onto PJ Romano Field yesterday morning, for the annual Day of Champions.

Their parents were there too. All were decked out in costumes — just one part of the offbeat, fun and very important competition.

A small part of the large Day of Champions crowd. 

In just a few years, the Day of Champions has become one of Westport’s favorite traditions.

Jordan Schur’s GOATS team.

The event raised over $150,000 for Experience Camps, the Westport-based network of activities for children who have lost parents or siblings.

This boy named Will, his twin sister (not pictured) and younger sister lost their dad in 2022. Will gave an inspiring speech, about the importance of Experience Camps in his life.

So who was the big winner, when all the games were over?

Experience Camps, for sure.

Crushin’ it, at the Day of Champions. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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A few yards away from Winslow Park — and just a few hours later — Bernadette Peters wowed a sold-out Westport Country Playhouse crowd.

The Tony Award-winning stage, film, television and recording star gave shout-outs to the historic Playhouse (where she has performed before), as she offered unique interpretations of beloved Broadway songs by Stephen Sondheim, Rodgers & Hammerstein and others.

Her haunting “Send in the Clowns” was a special highlight.

Peters referenced the Dog Festival, when she talked about co-founding Broadway Barks with Mary Tyler Moore. Unfortunately, she said, she didn’t make it over to the park; she was doing her sound check.

It was a warm, wonderful evening. And one more sign that the Westport Country Playhouse’s 93rd year will be one of its best ever.

Bernadette Peters (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club joined Saturday’s international Day of Service.

Working with Westport’s Department of Human Services, volunteers cleaned up a Westport yard that needed help. They filled 30 large lawn and leaf bags — a small act that made a big difference.

Sunrise Rotarians (from left to right): Bob Galan, Bruce Fritz, Rob Hauck, Bruce Paul and Ted Freeman.

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Also yesterday: the Staples wrestlers’ car wash, at the Shell station across from Winslow Park (and the well-attended Dog Festival).

Many high school teams raise funds this way.

But not many do it with the grapplers’ style: They all wore their singlets.

At least, they started out that way.

(Photo/Jennifer Rosen)

PS: This is not the only way the wrestlers help the community. They’re well known for taking on a variety of heavy labor tasks, like moving furniture or hauling rocks. Whatever people pay goes right back to their program.

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Meanwhile, some folks are not contributing to their community.

Cindy Blount send this photo …

… and writes: “Walking my dog in Winslow park on Saturday, I was astounded to find a number of dog poop bags left on the side of the trails in the woods.

“I picked them up. How about a reminder to dog owners to either drop them in the trash cans provided at the park, or take them home and toss them?”

It is astonishing that people will take the time to clean up after their dog — perhaps because someone is watching — but can’t be bothered to carry it a few more minutes, or yards, to a trash can.

I’ve written about this before. It doesn’t seem to make a difference.

The people who need to read this, don’t.

Or if they do, they just don’t care.

What a sad way to live your life.

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Also yesterday: the Sound Cyclists Bicycle Club’s Bloomin’ Metric event.

There were 4 rides — 25, 40, 75 and 100 kilometers — starting and ending at Sherwood Island State Park.

Attendees enjoyed food trucks, bike inspections and vendors.

Among the booths: Bike Westport.

Markus Marty, a founder of the local group — which advocates for safer streets throughout town, for riders, pedestrians and drivers — brought his “smoothie blender bike.”

He gave out free smoothies, to raise awareness of the cause.

Well, Markus, notes, “they weren’t completely free. People had to work for them.”

How? As the photo below shows, the smoothie blender worked not on electricity, but on people pedal power.

Which made the drink even more enjoyable.

(Photo/Markus Marty)

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There hasn’t been a lot of sun for the past few days (weeks) (months).

But when there is, this green frog (rana clamitans, according to Morgan Veltri of Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center enjoys it.

And — while posing for our “Westport … Naturally” feature — also blends in well with the surroundings.

(Photo/Morgan Veltri)

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And finally … on this date in 1873, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis receive a U.S. patent for blue jeans with copper rivets. Strauss went on to form a company to manufacture them, which is why today they are called “Levis,” and not “Jacobs.”

(Another week of Roundups begins. “06880” keeps you up to date on everything happening in town — and we do it 24/7/365. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Roundup: Pops Concert, Long Island Sound, Adopt A Kitten …

Posted on May 18, 2024 | 2 comments

Westport’s great end-of-school-year/start-of-summer tradition — Staples High School’s Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion — is back!

This year’s show is Friday, June 7 (lawn opens at 6 p.m.; concert at 7; BYO chair; food trucks on site). The always sold-out event features the Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orphenians, Choralaires and other small group ensembles.

Once again, media personality David Pogue will serve as the warm, welcoming emcee.

Tickets are free, but a suggested donation of $15 per ticket is suggested to offset the production costs.

Tickets are available at staplesmusic.org beginning next Wednesday, May 29 at 9 a.m.: first-come, first-served! In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be performed in the Staples High School auditorium at 70 North Avenue, where tickets will be honored.

This year’s graphic was designed by Staples senior Shivali Kanthan. 

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Which Westport beach is the best? We can debate that all summer long.

Of course, there are many ways to define “best.”

But if you’re looking at water quality alone, Save the Sound has an answer.

It’s Burying Hill Beach.

Their grades — based on 2023 date from 197 public and private beaches, in Connecticut and New York — gave an A+ to the small Greens Farms spot.

Compo Beach and Sherwood Island State Park both earned a B+.

Click here for an interactive map of those and other Long Island Sound beaches.

Burying Hill: #1 for water quality in Westport. (Photo/Ed Simek)

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Since they began in 2007, Westport Animal Shelter Advocates has watched with dismay as the number of abandoned animals her grows.

Recently, a little puppy was left in a shopping bag near the Volvo dealership.

WASA brought it up to date on vet care. After an adoption process involving an application, meet and greets and a home visit, it was adopted by a loving family.

On Wednesday, WASA was notified of 3 kittens abandoned in a box at the transfer station. They were kept safe there by long-time employee Bud Valiante.

WASA arrived quickly. The kittens were examined, vaccinated, treated for tick infestations, and are now in the care of a skilled and wonderful WASA volunteer.

They are about six weeks old, and doing very well

Interested adopters should call WASA (203-557-0361), or email wasa1@optonline.net.

To make a donation so WASA can continue its important work, click here.

3 kittens need adoptive families.

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There are many important days on the Westport Rotary Club calendar.

But this past Tuesday was extra special. Members handed checks to Fairfield County charities they support.

Nearly 100 people attended the luncheon, at which 41 non-profits received a total of $200,000.

That’s a Westport Rotary Club record. Congratulations to the hard-working members — and the recipients.

Rotary Club members and recipients. (Photo/Peter DePalo)

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Over 4,000 teams from more than 50 countries competed in the recent Wharton Investment Competition, sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania.

Using an online stock market simulator, they learn about strategy building, teamwork, communication, risk, diversification, company and industry analysis, and many other aspects of investing.

Upholding Westport’s hedge fund “capital” reputation, the Staples High School team placed second.

Congratulations to the young financiers (names in caption below):

From left: Eli Lesser, director, Wharton Global Youth Program; Andrew Rebello and Srish Popuri, Staples co-presidents; Alex Sod, founder; Mack Haymond, Henry Watson, Will Boberski, Sam Rossoni.

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Kings Highway Elementary School officially opened its Outdoor Learning Center yesterday.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice joined principal Tracey Carbone, vice principals Catherine Carmona and Jame’el Lawrence, PTA presidents Denise Acampora and Arielle Leighton, and past PTA president Jeni Bianco, for the ceremony.

The Outdoor Learning Center will be used for activities like reading, morning meetings, writing, snack breaks and more.

Students enjoy the Kings Highway Outdoor Learning Center.

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Congratulations too to the recipients of a Westport Green Building Award for Achievement in Sustainable Design and Construction. It goes to a Saugatuck Shores home damaged by a tornado in 2020, and rebuilt for resilience and sustainability.

The project team includes lead Patricia Miller of Residential Design; Marc and Joseph Fuscaldo of Fuscaldo Builders, and smart home designer Barry Reiner of InnerSpace Electronics.

The award, given by the town and Sustainable Westport, recognizes residential and commercial projects that make significant contributions to sustainability, and Westport’s future as a net zero community.

Click here for details of the Saugatuck Shores project.

To nominate a project for the Green Building Award, click here.

To learn more about how to make homes more sustainable, click here, then follow the link to “Guidance for Applicants.”

Celebrating the Green Building Award, on Saugatuck Shores.

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This spring, the Westport Transit District updated its Wheels2U app. Users who downloaded it before March 26 need to update it. New riders are encouraged to download it now.

To thank everyone for downloading or updating, rides on Wheels2U are free for all riders next week (Monday through Friday, May 20-24). The normal $2 fare will be waived.

Click here for a link to the app, and more information.

Riders use the Wheels2U Westport app to request a pickup  between 5:45 and 10 a.m., and between 4 9:30 p.m. for rides between the Westport or Greens Farms train platform and their front door. Pickups should be requested about 20 minutes before you would normally leave to drive to the station.

Wheels2U

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For underserved people with writing talent, finding resources is no laughing matter.

But “Lit & Wit” is. The comedy night fundraiser is a Westport Writers’ Workshop initiative to raise funds for pro bono writing workshops in underserved communities.

The brainchild of WWW writers Aline Weiller and Alyssa Katz, plus WEstport comedian Jerry Kuyper, it’s set for June 6  (7 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club).

Tickets are $55. More than a dozen top comedians will entertain guests (see below). The evening also includes snacks, a food truck (starting at 6 p.m.), cash bar, comedy trivia for prizes, and door prize gift basket. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Meanwhile, things were in a bit of a pickle yesterday, outside the rear entrance to Rye Ridge Deli:

The mess was cleaned up quickly, before birds or other animals could dine.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from busily traveled Riverside Avenue, near Sylvan Lane.

We should all slow down and enjoy the beautiful scene.

Even though the impatient drivers behind us might not appreciate that.

(Photo/Dan Souza)

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And finally … Perry Como was born on this date, in 1912. He sold over 100 million records worldwide, and hosted a weekly musical variety television show, during a 50-plus-year career. He died in 2001, age 88.

(It’s the weekend, but “06880” never rests. Here’s another information-filled Roundup If you appreciate our hyper-local coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you)

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Staples Players Set A “Trap”

Posted on May 17, 2024 | Comments Off on Staples Players Set A “Trap”

You never know what you’ll get, at a Staples Players Black Box production.

In years past the award-winning, near-professional high school drama troupe has ended the season with a thought-provoking production of “Twelve Angry Men,” a stirring “Diary of Anne Frank,” and a frightening “Lord of the Flies.”

This month though, you really won’t know what you’ll get.

Players’ next Black Box offering is “Trap.” If you’ve never heard of it — well, that’s the whole point.

The brainchild of Moises Kaufman’s Tectonic Theater Project — which also created “The Laramie Project,” a two-time Black Box offering — “Trap” is an entirely new type of show.

Imagine that over this past February break, several Staples Players traveled to Maine to investigate a very strange occurrence at a school play. They interviewed witnesses, loved ones, first responders, and others, to put together this production.

Finley Chevrier (back) and Ben Herrera, in “Trap.” (Photo/Kerry Long)

It’s Players’ first-ever “horror thriller” show, says longtime director David Roth.

Though reluctant to offer more details, Roth notes that it will be staged in the round, adding another element of surprise.

The cast of 22 includes several actors in multiple roles. It’s the final Players production for several seniors, adding a layer of poignancy.

“Come ready to be scared — and have fun,” Roth says.

(“Trap is recommended for ages 10 and older. Shows are May 23, 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m., and May 25 at 3 p.m. Click here for tickets.)

(“06880” covers Staples Players — and just about everything else happening at our high school. Plus everywhere else in town. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Jazz, Bowling, Poker …

Posted on May 16, 2024 | 7 comments

If you missed Monday’s Staples Jazz Ensemble concert at the Westport Library — read (and click) on.

The event — part of the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston’s monthly Jazz Club series — featured a wide array of tunes.

It also included a world premiere, written just for the high school ensemble.

Click below, to enjoy an hour of great entertainment.

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Club 203 “spared” nothing for their monthly party on Tuesday, at Nutmeg Bowl.

And they “struck” a perfect chord for all attendees.

Bowling, prizes, pizza — it was right down everyone’s alley.

Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities gets ready now for their final event before their summer break: a Compo Beach bash on June 5. Click here for details.

Club 203 at Nutmeg Bowl.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between May 8 and 15.

A 47-year-old Westport woman was arrested for disorderly conduct, violation of a protective order and assault, after a report of a domestic violence incident.

A 36-year old Tracy, California man was arrested for identity theft and forgery, after he deposited fraudulent checks, then attempted to withdraw money from a credit card account.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 10 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 6
  • Distracted driving: 4
  • Failure to renew registration: 4
  • Driving while texting: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1

Don’t drive unreasonably fast!

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What to do this Friday night?

Roll the dice, and find out.

MoCA Westport’s “Gallery of Games” begins at 7 p.m.

The arts center will be filled with poker, blackjack and craps tables. Staples High School graduate Michelle Pauker provides entertainment; there’s tarot card reading too, and a silent auction.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Staples High School juniors Jack Schwartz, Ryan Sunjka, Jackson Tracey and Lucy Barney, plus freshman Sienna Schwartz, serve on the Friends of Yale New Haven Children Hospital’s Junior Board.

They volunteer at the Ronald McDonald house, participate in toy drives, and have special guest speakers at monthly meetings.

They also fundraise.

A lot.

This year’s goal is $30,000.

The money will support sick children and under-resourced families as they struggle through unimaginable medical complications.

The 2nd annual “Heartbeat for Hope” is set for Orange Theory in Westport this Saturday (May 18, noon) and June 1 (1 p.m.). Teams of 3 compete in running and rowing workouts.

There is no entry fee. But to win big prizes, participants are asked to raise at least $450 per team ($150 per person) from families, friends, neighbors and others.

Prizes to the teams with the top times and most amount of money raised include high value tickets (University of Connecticut basketball, Yankees Legends behind home plate, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets), gift baskets and gift cards. Participants also receive t-shirts. Click here to join the fundraiser; then click “Support Me.”

The Junior Board members hope “06880” readers will donate, even if they can’t participate. Click here for the donation page.

 

Staples high School members of the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital Junior Board.

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Westporters were well represented at this week’s 10th annual “Women Leading the Way to Wellness” luncheon in Stamford.

Actor Stephanie Szostak delivered the keynote address. WEST owner Kitt Shapiro and caterer Robin Selden hosted.

The event was a great fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Stephanie Szostak, inspiring the women’s wellness crowd.

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A reader writes:

“Something crazy happened yesterday.

“I bought a $6 hot dog from Hook’d, and took it to a table right outside. Before I knew it, several small birds surrounded me.

“At first I thought I could shoo them away, but then a huge bird swooped in to grab the whole hot do.

“I let him have it, but it was pretty scary! I’m still a little shaken up. I won’t be buying or eating anything there any time soon.

“Have you heard any stories like this? I would like to know if this is an isolated incident.”

Beachgoers: What do you think? Should this reader worry about more attacks? Or was it just a very hungry bird that loves Hook’d dogs?

Caw! (Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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Little Ralphie is back!

Westport’s favorite duck has returned. He’s preparing for (and promoting) the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual Great Duck Race.

It’s Saturday, June 29 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jesup Green).

Little Ralphie’s first stop was in front of Hartford Healthcare,

He’ll waddle around town over the coming weeks, raising awareness of the family-fun fundraiser.

Sunny the Duck will join him, as usual.

For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, click here.

Little Ralphie and Sunrise Rotarian friends Bruce Fritz (left) and Bruce Paul. 

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Speaking of birds: Johanna Keyser Rossi reports that there are a few nests in the St. Luke Church louver vents.

Peering in yesterday, she spotted 2 baby sparrows. They — and their attentive mother — bring a smile, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1888, Nikola Tesla described the equipment that allows alternating currents to transmit electric power over long distances.

(Casino nights, jazz, police reports, duck races — as usual, it’s all here in the “06880” Roundup. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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