Category Archives: Staples HS

“Students Speak”: Teen Volunteers Change Lives — And Their Own

Posted on April 23, 2026 | 1 comment

Jonathan Dobin-Smith is a Staples High School senior, and regional director for Circle of Friends. The non-profit involves children, teenagers and adults with autism and disabilities in a full array of inclusive social experiences.

In the fall, Jonny — who received Circle of Friends’ Mildred H. Schwartz Scholarship for Outstanding Volunteering and Leadership — heads to the University of Chicago. He writes:

No place epitomizes the meaning of “community” quite like Circle of Friends, on a Sunday afternoon. Volunteers, instructors and neurodivergent participants burst through the door in a torrent of excitement.

Neurodivergent kids often find themselves feeling left out. They aren’t invited to birthday parties or playdates, and have a hard time creating lasting friendships.

At COF, teen volunteers spend time with our friends one Sunday per month. We schedule weekly 1-on-1 playdates separately with our neurodivergent buddies.

Walking in the door for the first time as an 8th grader, I was nervous. I had no experience working with kids with special needs. My brother had been the president of Staples’ COF chapter, and I was anxious about filling his shoes.

However, the fantastic community of volunteers and organizers make everyone feel like they belong. What was once anxiety quickly turned to excitement.

Jonny Dobin-Smith (right) and fellow volunteer Aiden Lapatine, with their friend Shai during a baking activity.

Being a part of this year’s senior class of volunteers has been a huge honor. But as our senior class heads off to Emory, Michigan, Vanderbilt, Chicago and other great schools, we leave behind a group of amazing buddies looking for new friends.

COF only works when teens in our area step up to help. I hope that everyone reading this will consider volunteering, or encouraging a middle or high school student they know to volunteer.

Getting involved with COF isn’t just a chance to positively change someone else’s world a little. It’s an opportunity to change your own, in a meaningful way.

Volunteering with COF is super flexible. There’s an opportunity to participate in group events one Sunday per month. That’s enough for plenty of volunteers. Many others also participate in my favorite program, Home with Friends, where volunteers are paired with a buddy who they visit each week, in a way that works for the volunteer’s schedule.

Volunteers easily balance activities like rowing, lacrosse, football, Players and academics with this discrete time commitment.

In 9th grade I began visiting my buddy, G. A highlight of my time with G was Halloween, when I got to relive all the best parts of trick-or-treating.

G had a buddy to go out with that night, and I had the greatest time showing him “the best streets” for candy. We had a blast.

Volunteering with COF is truly impactful. Showing up to befriend someone who feels disconnected or lonely changes their world. Being present to go for a walk, play video games, grab ice cream or play a little basketball provides an opportunity for connection and engagement. Seeing your buddy’s face light up when you knock on their front door feels amazing.

Getting to know them, and their families, is even better. Whether you volunteer for 1 year or 4, you’ll become a part of the family in the best way.

Mischpacha is a Yiddish word that means “extended family.” As part of COF, you become a part of the mischpacha.

Circle of Friends volunteers (from left)  Sammi Dreizen, Juliet Jannes, Elijah Falkenstein and Jonny Dobin-Smith.

Volunteering with COF requires no previous experience — and everyone is welcome. You don’t need any special education training or past involvement with special needs or disabilities to get involved. Just an interest in being friendly and making a difference.

The program is run out of a synagogue, but people of all different religions participate as friends and volunteers. During the recent Purim holiday, some of my friends from Staples who are Christian and Muslim helped pack gift boxes.

Volunteering with COF allows students to be creative. From creating science workshops to an entire baking program, if you have an interest that will work for the group, Freida Hecht, COF’s executive director, will encourage you to pursue it.

This is such a fun way to provide engagement during Sunday Circle events and lean into your own interests. There’s even a new leadership program next year that will award college credit to volunteers.

 

Working with an organization so dedicated to changing lives has been an honor. I encourage you and your families get to experience it, too!

COF wants to meet the needs of every family that contacts them for help. But that only happens when enough people show up.

If you are curious, you can learn more about volunteering at https://www.circleoffriendsct.org.

Our annual Evening of Recognition, which raises programming funds for the entire year, is coming up Sunday, May 3. I very much hope to see you there.

(“Students Speak” is a regular “06880” feature. Any student living or studying in Westport or Weston can submit a piece. Email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this local blog, click here.)

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Staples Players Rewind: “Urinetown”

Posted on April 21, 2026 | 1 comment

Whether you enjoyed Staples Players’ recent production of “Urinetown,” or missed it, here’s a chance to see it again.

Well, not exactly. This is the spring 2006 version.

Each week, “06880” is presenting a series of “nutshells” — highlights from the esteemed high school troupe’s show, filmed and edited by former media teacher Jim Honeycutt.

Directors David Roth and Kerry Long have inspired many cast and crew members to go on to lives in the theater. Here, from the 2006 “Urinetown,” are a few examples:

Adam Kaplan was most recently seen as Gary on the new Max series “The Girls on the Bus.” He starred on Broadway in “A Bronx Tale,” directed by Robert De Niro. Other Broadway and national tours include “Kinky Boots,” “Newsies” and “Show Boat.” He has also been in “The Big Leap,” “Chad in Up Here,” “Elsbeth,” “Somewhere In Queens” and “Deception.” 

Mia Gentile is a singer, actor and writer. She appeared in “Kinky Boots” on Broadway, impersonated many divas in “Forbidden Broadway,” created music as part of MISSYFIT, and starred in the hilarious viral video “The Stanley Steemer Variations (by Mia)” which got her on “Good Morning America.”

Tyler Paul co-founded the innovative Northeast Children’s Theatre Company, while still in college. He is now head of people and talent at Paravision, a leader in computer vision and biometrics identity solutions.

Hannah Dubner is a Chicago-based actor, writer and movement artist seen on TV series (“Don’t Schmuck It Up” and “How Did That Happen?!” (2018), and short films (“Return to Sender.”

Jacob Heimer is an actor, singer and dancer. He has an extensive resumé in TV (“Law And Order”), film (“Gold Star,” and Broadway “Beautiful.”

Anna Slate is a singer, actor, writer, performance artist and educator. Her credits include “Indecent,” “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812,” “Romeo & Juliet,” “Handle with Care,” “The Fantasticks,” “A Little Night Music” and “Alice Unwrapped.”

Megan Wttl is a commercial voice actor.

Nick Boak is an entertainment executive “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” “Warcraft” and “American Hustle.”

Scott Weinstein is an award winning director, creative director and producer of new and existing work for theatre and live events.

Taber Onthank is a musician, songwriter and former actor (“Amy and Peter Are Getting Divorced”). He is the husband of actress Britt (Baron) Uomoleale (“Glow”), his former high school sweetheart.

Brittany (Baron) Uomoleale is an actress known for “Glow,” “The Thing About Harry” and “Into the Dark.”

Britt Hennemuth is senior vice president of production for Universal Pictures. He is known for “Break a Hip,” “John Proctor Is the Villain” and
“Untitled Archie Comics Movie.”

Sally Eidman is an actress, singer/songwriter and creator. Her credits nclude “Torch,” “Beauty Queen” and “James,” along with many shorts and national commercials.

Chris McNiff is an actor, singer and dancer. He has been in “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Who’s Got Me?,” “Mary Poppins” and “Elf: The Musical.”

Drew Angus is a recording artist. His albums include “Late For the Party,” “You And Me,” “Under Covers Deluxe” and “Hold Onto Something.”

And now … on with the show!

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)  

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Roundup: Pop-ups, Praise, Plaudits …

Posted on April 21, 2026 | 1 comment

Yesterday was Patriots Day. (A celebration of the Battles of Lexington and Concord — not the football team.)

The Westport Garden Club used the occasion to announce a new pop-up floral display and civic initiative, like its popular “Friday Flowers.”

That tradition began in May 2020 as a way to brighten spirits during the pandemic. This will continue this legacy of civic beautification and community dedication, in honor of America’s 250th birthday this year.

A special floral display was installed on Main Street, by the new town clock near The Gap.

The Westport Garden Club display at the town clock …

Other floral pop-ups include:

🌷Memorial Day (May 25): Veterans Green, in front of the Doughboy statue.

🌷Flag Day (June 14): Compo Beach entrance

🌷Independence Day (July 3): Veterans Green, in front of the Doughboy statue.

🌷Constitution Day (September 17): Town Hall steps.

… and a close-up.

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Praise continues to pour in for “Primary Trust,” the Westport Country Playhouse’s current production.

Phil Kann writes: “Alphonso Walker Jr. highlights a cast that makes clear why the script won a Pulitzer. During the play’s 3 or so breaks in the action, I have never heard more vacuum-like silence. I urge people to experience this quietly dazzling show.”

Another aspect that many theater-goers find fascinating is the brilliant scene-changing technique.

Scenic designer Jack Magaw created a slip stage — a large wheeled platform that slides to “slip” scenes into view, allowing for rapid scene changes.

In most shows the entire stage moves to the wings, so another full set can come into view.

This slip stage includes several locations (an office, bank, restaurant and bookstore) that move on an arc. All are visible throughout the entire show. The location that is the focus of a particular scene is lit, while the others exist in the shadows.

“Primary Trust” runs through May 2. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Set design for “Primary Trust.” (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)

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Rising Tide brings creative small business owners together to collaborate and share their diverse perspectives and expertise.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Bella Bridesmaids, 19 Post Road West), they invite creatives, entrepreneurs and small business owners to a free meeting on “AI Tools and Resources.”

Rising Tide promises a “focused, jargon-free discussion on the AI tools that are actually worth your time. Whether you’re a total beginner or a tech enthusiast, come share your experiences and learn from your peers.”

The evening will include best resources; real-world cases by local people; open conversation to share tips, apps, and the ethics of using AI in creative fields; and brainstorming how to integrate tools into workflows.

Click here for more information, and to register. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Congratulations to Inklings!

Staples High School journalists won several Gold Circle awards, in the Columbia Scholastic Press Association’s 43rd annual contest.

This year, there were over 6,000 entrants. All entries were published during the 2024-25 academic year.

Staples had 4 first place winners:

  • News alternative story form: Avni Krishna ’27 and Camille Blundell ’27, “Stylizing Staples”
  • News sports design: Anna Kercher ’25, “Sophia Fildago Schioppa Soars on National Field Hockey Stage”
  • Digital media personal profile: Nina Bowens ’25, “Gigi’s Dollhouse: How Family Inspired One Woman’s Imagination, Unique Hobby”
  • Feature page design: Alexis Jacobs ’26 and Sophie Smith ’26 (“504 Plans”)

Placing 2nd was Ella Turner ’28, for news headline writing.

In 3rd place for news sports commentary were Lucy Basso ’27 and Sophie Smith ’26 (“Is Aquatics a Must”).

Inklings honorees, clockwise from top left: Starting from the top left, Sophie Smith, Alexis Jacobs, Camille Blundell, Avni Krishna, Ella Turner, Anna Kercher and Nina Bowens. (Collage created by Avni Krishna)

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More Staples news: 3 students are headed to Singapore!

Mehmet Madigan, Josephine Caricato and Elizabeth Stauder will represent the school — and the US — at an international summit hosted by Hwa Chong Institution, in July.

It is an elite event, with only 80 students. This marks the 12th year in which Westport has been invited to send 3 juniors. Requirements include high grades, and interest in world affairs (particularly Asia).

Congratulations, Mehmet, Josephine and Elizabeth!

From left: Josephine Caricato, Elizabeth Stauder, Mehmet Madigan.

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In November, the Staples boys soccer team won the state championship at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium.

This Sunday, 2 Westport teams will try to do the same.

But these players are old enough to be the Wreckers’ parents.

Last weekend, the Over-40 Westport Storm FC knocked out Danbury United 2-1 — the defending state champs — in the Connecticut State Soccer Association semfinals. They’ll face Vasco da Gama of Bridgeport in the final.

Westport players include Jim Wolf (captain of Staples’ 1999 and 2000 teams, now president of the Westport Soccer Association), Dan Chiazza, Olly Cook, Nick McDonald (whose son William plays at Staples), Robbie Newman, Steve Orloff, John Raus, Russ Pfeffer and Mike Zambon.

Westport Storm Over-40 team.

On an adjacent Wakeman field, the Over-50 Westport FC topped Newington 3-2 in penalty kicks, after regulation and overtime ended 1-1. They’ll play The Russell from Windsor.

That game could be especially meaningful to several players.

Fredy Duque’s son Gabe was a captain of Staples’ state championship squad. His daughter is also a Wrecker player.

Erik Waldman’s son Jaden was a sophomore Wrecker on last fall’s varsity. And Aldo Lopez is the father of a former Staples goalkeeper.

Other Over-50 players from Westport include Damien McClave, Jean-Francois Geschwind, Jeffrey Holl, Kaveh Ghahremani, Mihai Ciustea and Scott Hopper.

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The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot this Thursday (April 23), for a session on “Computer Basics.”

It returns May 21, covering “Tips for Resume & Cover Letter,” and June 19 (Intro to Excel).

There are 2 sessions (10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.

The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.

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One more follow-up on the return of the Remarkable Bookcycle:

Yesterday, “06880” reported that the iconic lending library was back at its beloved Compo Beach spot.

But, we noted, Larry Roberts — who repaired it — had to throw out some books, due to snow and water damage. The shelves were a bit bare.

Within minutes, Westporters came through.

Barely an hour after that post, John Richers sent a photo of one side — nearly full. The other side is presumably equally robust.

And, John adds, there are “some significant titles.”

Feel free to borrow. But — in contradiction to Hamlet (whose play may even be on the shelf) — feel free to be a lender, too.

Robust titles, in the Remarkable Bookcycle. (Photo/John Richers)

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“JazzFC” presents the wildly popular “Jazz at the Post” series every Thursday. Great musicians play 2 shows at VFW Post 399. The price is low; the talent level very, very high.

But Jazz FC does much more. Among their projects: workshops for youth and aspiring professional musicians, as well as the local underserved community in senior citizen residences and community centers.

They also administer the Micky Golomb Scholarship, awarding up to $10,000 annually to students who concentrate in jazz studies.

To fund those endeavors, they’re sponsoring a “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck” this Thursday (April 23, 6 to 10 p.m.). (It’s at the VFW, not actually on the river.)

Over 25 award-winning artists will jam. There’s a silent auction and lavish dinner too. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Some of the 25+ musicians appearing at the “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck.” It takes place on dry land, at VFW Post 399.

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As long as flowers keep blooming — and readers keep sending them — we’ll feature spring foliage in our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

This is the scene at Lansdowne condominiums:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … on this date in 1509, Henry VIII ascended to the throne of England, after the death of his father, Henry VII.

(Flowers, the Playhouse, Staples, soccer, jazz — and Herman’s Hermits. That’s how “06880” rolls — 24/7/365. If you enjoy our these Roundups, or anything else, click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Isabel Jo, Uma Choudhury Lead Staples Class Of ’26

Posted on April 20, 2026 | 1 comment

The top 2 students in Staples High School’s Class of 2026 are standouts in the classroom, of course.

But Isabel Jo and Uma Choudhury – the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively – are accomplished far beyond the classroom too.

Isabel is an All-State musician (in two instruments). She has spent a decade as a competitive horseback rider. And she is an active member of the school’s No Place for Hate organization.

Uma is a black belt in taekwando. She also captains Staples’ Science Olympiad team, and is president of the Math Honor Society.

Both young women – products of the Westport Public Schools since elementary school — will speak at graduation ceremonies on June 15.

Isabel’s musical career began at Coleytown Elementary School. It continued through Coleytown Middle School. Instructor Jim Andrews gave her a great foundation, she says. At Staples, where she plays both viola and violin, she is concertmistress of both the Symphonic and Chamber Orchestras.

Her interest in horses began even earlier. Her family was looking for houses in Westport, and passed a barn. Isabel was fascinated.

Isabel Jo

She rides now at the Fairfield County Hunt Club. She competes in equitation – the highest level of jumping – at national events. In May she’ll do her senior internship at the Hunt Club, working with horses.

With No Place for Hate, Isabel helps educate younger students about bullying and bias, during Staples’ Connections periods.

Classes like Advanced Placement Chemistry with William Jones have challenged Isabel. At Dartmouth College she plans to study the subject, as well as statistics and music.

Her four years of orchestra classes are among her most favorite at Staples. Isabel credits teachers Carrie Mascaro and Jeri Brima with “fostering a welcoming community for everyone, no matter what role music plays in their lives.” For her, it is a central part of life.

“Music is the universal language,” Isabel notes. “It unites people around a common role, despite whatever differences they have.”

Isabel downplays her achievement of earning the highest grade point average among the 400-plus students in this year’s graduating class.

“So many kids work hard. There’s so much luck involved, in being .01 point lower or higher.”

Her favorite part of high school has been “finding a group of people,” primarily in orchestra. “They don’t all think alike. But they’ve understood my goals, and supported me. At the end of my time here, I really appreciate that.”

Uma’s path to salutatorian was similarly unplanned, and equally well-rounded.

As a black belt in taekwando, she has learned to “do things I couldn’t have imagined doing.” She gives back too, by helping out at a summer camp.

Uma’s main Science Olympiad events are code busters (math-related decrypting and encrypting cyphers), and physics-related circuits and electricity. She earned a gold medal in ecology last year, after medaling in code busters as a sophomore.

Uma Choudhury

Her freshman Applied Algorithmic Design course – a programming class with Dr. Nick Morgan – sparked an interest in computer programming. It combines her passions for math, physics and biology. She hopes to pursue it in college, perhaps in a research capacity.

But Uma was also excited by her junior year Contemporary World Studies class, with Cathy Schager. “We looked at issues, researched them and discussed them,” she says. “When you’re caught up with academics you can’t always see what’s going on in the world. But Ms. Schager was very helpful, and made sure we did.”

Other inspiring teachers included Noreen McGoldrick, an English instructor who helped Uma become a better writer and reader, and Philip Abraham, whose AP Statistics Class was “interesting, fun, and applicable to lots of different  fields.”

Like Isabel, Uma did not set out to achieve a top GPA. “I just wanted to do well for myself,” she says. Her selection as salutatorian was “a happy surprise.’

She will do her senior internship at Citizen Invention, a Westport-based science education program. In the fall, she heads to Carnegie Mellon University.

 

(“06880” reports regularly on the accomplishments of Westport’s teenagers — and on all our schools. To support stories like this, please make a tax-deductible donation by clicking here. Thanks!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “Beauty & The Beast”

Posted on April 14, 2026 | 1 comment

Our trip down Staples Players’ memory lane continues with “Beauty & the Beast.”

The cast of the fall 2007 production, directed by David Roth and Kerry Long, included several actors who went on to professional careers.

  • Adam Kaplan (Cogsworth) starred in “Newsies” and “A Bronx Tale” on Broadway.
  • Hannah Dubner (Belle) has performed in many shows, including “Hamlet” and “My Big Gay Italian Wedding.”
  • Andy Friedland (The Beast)  had a part in the series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” He is now executive director of Hiller International.
  • Dan Shure (Belle’s father) is a recording artist in Charley Bliss, with Players actress Eva Hendricks.

Now … sit back and enjoy the show!

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)  

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Dave Goldshore: Behind The Decision To Step Back From Basketball

Posted on April 13, 2026 | 1 comment

Dave Goldshore is an intense coach.

In 4 years, he built the Staples High School boys basketball team into a Connecticut powerhouse.

On a Saturday night last month, the Wreckers were one game away from a momentous achievement: an undefeated (27-0) season, and the program’s first state championship since 1937.

It was a very intense moment.

Dave Goldshore reacts to a great play, in the state title game … (Photo/Ryan Allen)

But as overtime against West Haven began — with several thousand raucous fans packing the Mohegan Sun arena — Goldshore felt serene.

“I was calm,” the coach — who had spent all winter prowling the sideline, barking orders, displaying every emotion from joy to anger, encouragement to frustration, for all to see — recalled last week.

“Win or lose, this group — players, staff, managers — had done all they could. They were leaving everything on the table. I felt a great sense of pride and accomplishment.”

That overtime period ended with the teams still tied.

So did the second OT.

It took 3 overtimes — the longest in state basketball finals history — before the game was decided.

West Haven celebrated wildly. Staples — the team that had captured the town’s heart with their talent, grit and exciting, fun style of play — slumped in despair. They were one game shy of perfection; 3 overtimes away from the ultimate goal their coach had driven them toward ever since the final game of the previous year.

… and a different reaction, near the end. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

For the seniors, it was a goal Goldshore had set the day he was appointed head coach 4 years earlier, when they were rising freshmen.

Three weeks after this year’s heartbreaking loss, he called a team meeting. Just as the seniors were moving on, he would be too. After 9 years with the program — 5 as an assistant, the last 4 as head coach — Goldshore was stepping down.

Goldshore is a basketball guy, through and through. He captained his Horace Greeley High School team in Chappaqua, New York; served 3 years as a student manager (including key recruiting responsibilities) at the University of Michigan, then assisted as Somers High before moving to Westport.

He went into the technology staffing business with his father, but never lost the coaching bug. He joined Staples coach Colin Devine’s staff, then earned his “dream job” in 2022 when Devine began pursuing administrative options.

Goldshore instilled core values, like a culture of accountability. He worked with Westport’s youth basketball program. His very first year, he led the Wreckers to the state Division II, after a dramatic, last-second comeback in the semis.

The next year Staples lost in overtime, in the FCIAC (league) final. That was particularly poignant: Just 15 minutes before getting on the bus, Goldshore learned that his father had died.

Dave Goldshore, shortly after being named head coach.

Last season, the Wreckers opted to move up to Division I. Star player Sam Clachko was injured late in the year, but Staples captured a huge prize: their first FCIAC title since 1963.

This year — a season that galvanized the entire town — they made it 2 in a row.

Accomplishments like that don’t come easily. Staples coaches sign seasonal, 3-month contracts. But building and maintaining a program is a 12-month commitment.

Goldshore jokes that he had his own permanent table at the diner, for Sunday morning meetings with individual players. In addition to planning and preparation, constant communication with players throughout the off-season is essential for program-building, chemistry and success.

“Talking to kids is so important,” he notes. “It’s everything: making sure they’re doing their work, if everything is okay with school and girlfriends, mental health issues, college challenges …”

Other — but by no means all — tasks include going to youth games, building relationships with younger players and families, organizing camps — “doing everything possible to keep the Staples basketball culture alive and well.”

And once the season begins, the intensity ramps up exponentially. Goldshore says that from late November through March, he has 2 jobs: his business, from 8 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and basketball, from 2 p.m. to 10.

Coach Dave Goldshore (front, center), players and coaches celebrate their 2nd straight FCIAC championship. (Photo/Diane Lowman)

He also has a wife and family. His daughter is in college. One son is playing baseball as a freshman at Trinity College; the other is still at Staples. Personal sacrifices for them are real.

Goldshore began thinking about the future after this year’s Division I semifinal, when the Wreckers were headed to the championship.

After the heartbreaking defeat, he took time to finalize it. Goldshore wanted to be sure it was “the right choice, for the right reason — not an emotional one.” It’s time now, he says, “to make sure that my family — my nuclear family — is safe and well and healthy.”

Still, the emotional toll of his decision is real.

He will miss many things — and not just the practices and games.

“Being there for these kids, with no judgment and complete honesty … it’s so time-consuming. But in the most wonderful way possible.”

Goldshore has no plans to coach in the near future. But, he notes, “I’m not going anywhere.”

Coach Dave Goldshore, in action. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

He looks forward to watching the program “keep trending upward.” He is confident that administrators will hire someone with “very capable hands. There are plenty of great candidates on our staff who can do an amazing job — and even take it to new heights.”

It will be “difficult” for him when practice begins again next November, Goldshore admits.

“I love Staples basketball. The games are the hardest part, and in some ways the least enjoyable.”

He’ll miss “all the times with the coaches, laughing, crying, strategizing and learning.”

Most of all, he’ll miss the players.

“I’ve learned so much from them. This 50-year-old man became a better, more self-aware person because of 15- to 18-year-olds. I’ll miss all that, for sure.”

Goldshore says he is “excited about the future. I look forward to being a fan.”

And, this most intense coach — one who exudes energy on the sideline, runs demanding practices, and helped turn Westport into a basketball-crazy town — says, “I’m at peace with my decision.”

(Every day, “06880” often readers behind the scenes of Westport stories — sports, arts, politics and more. If you enjoy coverage like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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In A World Of Work Algorithms, Therapist Offers Human Help

Posted on April 11, 2026 | 1 comment

It’s a tough time to be looking for a job.

In addition to tight markets, cutbacks and the elimination of work due to AI, there is the simple act of getting one’s foot in the door.

“The process was impersonal even before ChatGPT,” says David Gofman.

“But now human beings are not actually reading resumes. They’re screened by software.”

More recently, he notes, job-seekers are being invited online for what they think are interviews.

Instead, they talk to a chatbot. The conversation is recorded, processed, then — who knows what happens?

“It’s not transparent at all,” Gofman says. “You don’t know how you did, or what you were evaluated on.”

Gofman has a front row seat to the angst experienced by job-seekers — and many other young people.

David Gofman, at graduation.

A 2009 Staples High graduate and now a psychotherapist, he’s returned to the area and opened a mental health counseling and career coaching practice.

In high school Gofman was involved in WWPT radio, and played on the state champion volleyball team.

He studied media production, and played and coached club volleyball, at Ithaca College, then earned a master’s in sport and performance psychology at the University of Denver.

Gofman spent 5 years at a Westport mental health group, helping young men struggling to navigate life. During COVID he and his wife Danielle moved to Roanoke, Virginia, where he was interim CEO of a community health center.

Last summer they returned to Westport. He established his practice on Sylvan Road South. In addition to life coaching, he specializes in patients with chronic pain.

Danielle is also a therapist; she works virtually.

David and Danielle Gofman, with their children.

Gofman empathizes with his young adult and early professional clients. Some are on the cusp of graduating; others are a few years into the careers, but don’t always like where they are.

They feel both the general anxieties of young people, and uncertainty about the future of work itself.

Meanwhile, the impersonal — and negative, no-reply, non-feedback elements of the application process — saps confidence, and reinforces doubts about what lies ahead.

Gofman tries to help clients align their job search around their personal values and interests.

Despite doomsday predictions, he says, “AI is not taking over a lot of jobs.”

As for algorithms that seem to rule the resume process, Gofman advises, “Control what you can control. Establish a network. Build relationships. Rely on those people.” That’s especially true, he says, when searching locally for work.

“Print out a resume. Knock on doors. You don’t always have to apply online,” he says.

And, he adds, “work on your interpersonal skills. Practice them, so you feel confident.”

David Gofman (Photo/Kristyn Miller)

Though Gofman was in much the same place less than 20 years ago — with plenty of college and career pressure — a lot has changed.

“I was in high school at the threshold of technological change,” he says. “Smartphones and social media were just coming in.” AI was still the stuff of science fiction.

Job applications were read by human beings, not software.

Now, David Gofman is one human being trying to help others navigate a new, and very difficult, world.

(“06880” reports regularly on Staples High School graduates, of all ages. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Taste Of Westport, Sherwood Island, Staples Robotics …

Posted on April 9, 2026 | 1 comment

One of Westport’s favorite nights is back, and celebrating a milestone.

With a twist.

The 20th annual Taste of Westport returns Wednesday, June 3. As they’ve done for 20 years, the area’s top restaurants and mixologists will host an evening of great food, drinks and community — all for a wonderful cause.

The fundraiser benefits CLASP Homes. All proceeds help provide group homes and 24/7/365 services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.

The twist: With the Inn at Longshore — its longtime home — undergoing renovations, the event moves to the Fairfield County Hunt Club.

It’s an intimate setting, with the same — but always fresh — superb food, signature cocktails and fine wines.

Tickets go on sale today. Click here to purchase, and for more information. (Note another tradition: They always sell out quickly.)

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The Sherwood Island pavilion — one of the most popular meeting spots at Connecticut’s first state park — will be closed all year.

Maybe longer.

Alert “06880” reader Allan Siegert noticed the pavilion was closed effective January 16 “until further notice.” The Y’s Men of Westport & Weston, of which he is a member, uses it for their annual meeting, and other gatherings.

Park supervisor Cailtin Munson told him: “Unfortunately at this time, we really don’t have any information to share with you. The pavilion is closed until further notice while we undergo assessments for repairs, and we do not anticipate it to reopen for the remainder of 2026.

“While we are hopeful to have it reopened for the 2027 recreation, no information is available to provide an update for a re-opening date, so a timeline does not exist at this moment which is why it is listed as closed until further notice.

“As the Park Supervisor for Sherwood Island, I have the most up to date information regarding the pavilion, however, I still encourage you to also utilize the deep.stateparks@ct.gov email for questions you may have, as some inquiries may get routed to an alternate contact depending on the nature of your questions.

“Sherwood Island does have a smaller picnic shelter near the east beach bath house that is now reservable between May 1sr and September 30th through Reserve America, which may be an option for your gatherings.”

Sherwood island pavilion.

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Congratulations to the Staples High School robotics team!

Competing recently their first aerial drone competition, the club placed first overall.

They also took 2nd place in both the Autonomous Flight and Teamwork categories.

The results qualify them for the Northeast Dragonfly regional competition in West Virginia.

They look forward to continuing to improve their skills in piloting, programming and teamwork as we prepare for higher-level competitions.

Of course, there are expenses like equipment and travel. The robotics team’s goal is $2,000. They’ve set up a GoFundMe page, and encourage residents to help support their efforts. Click here to contribute, and for more information.

Staples High School robotics team.

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On Tuesday, MoCA\CT opened their doors wide, hosting a special “speakeasy” night for Club203.

Members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed casino games, jazz led by talented Staples High School musicians, tasty bites by Calise’s Deli, and art with MoCA (making dice and playing cards).

The current “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibit lent a special flavor to the night.

Club203 thanks all who made the evening great — especially, during this Volunteer Appreciation Month, the many volunteers who do so much!

Club 203’s speakeasy night, at MoCA\CT. (Photo/Stacie Curran)

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Comcast continues to wire Westport.

The cable, internet, phone and wireless provider plans to connect nearly 12,000 homes and businesses to their Xfinity network, which currently serves more than 64 million customers.

Click here for details on timelines and service availability. Comcast expects to complete the Westport project by the end of this year.

Meanwhile, here’s a typical scene. Bob Weingarten spotted it at Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South.

But it’s repeated all over.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Westporter Tony Kiniry — executive director of Bridgeport-based nonprofit Recovery Community Development — described his organization’s work and impact at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

The non-profit buys and renovates abandoned homes, then provides housing for up to 12 people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction in each.

RCD runs 3 houses in the Bridgeport area. A fourth is planned for Norwalk.

Residents pay a low monthly rent, and stay as long as necessary.

Tony Kiniry, at Tuesday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photo/ Dave Matlow)

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The Weston Public Library’s Photography Club semi-annual exhibit is open right now, in the community room.

The theme is “Street Life.” A reception is set for April 25 (1 to 3 p.m.). It runs through May 27.

“NYC Intersection” by Susan Urbania is on display at the Weston Public Library.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between April 1 and 7.

A 29-year-old Mount Vernon, New York man was charged with reckless driving, engaging police in pursuit, reckless endangerment and illegal window tinting. In January an officer was alerted by a license plate reader that there was an active warrant for a passing vehicle’s owner. The vehicle exited a Saugatuck train station parking lot, then engaged in a pursuit on Riverside Avenue that included driving through a work zone, off the shoulder, jumping a curb and sidewalk, then over a retaining wall into a private parking lot. The pursuit was discontinued, but after the suspect was incarcerated in Westchester County, New York, he was extradited to Connecticut. He was held on a $35,000 bond.

A 20-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs (under 21 years of age) and evading responsibility, following a motor vehicle accident in the parking lot of 100 Post Road East. She allegedly struck a fence, support structure and sign, then rove away and nearly struck another car, before parking extremely close to an adjacent car. She was released on a $1,000 bond.

A 27-year-old Brooklyn woman was charged with larceny, identity theft, criminal investigation, forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a complaint that a check had been intercepted and altered. She was held on a $50,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 34 citations (part of a statewide crackdown this month)
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
  • Distracted driving: 6
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
  • Speeding in a school zone: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
  • Failure to cancel registration within 10 days: 1

Westport Police issued 34 citations for texting while driving. 

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Sure, it’s April 9. But some folks here woke up to frost today.

The birds, though, are singing as they always do this time of year. And if the weather is good enough for them — as it is for this blue jay, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — it’s good enough for us.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … in honor of the bird in the image above:

(Don’t text and drive! But any other time, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Your support will keep the police reports — and everything else — coming. Thank you!)

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Staples Basketball Coach Goldshore Steps Down

Posted on April 8, 2026 | 1 comment

Dave Goldshore — the Staples High School boys basketball coach who in 4 years won 2 FCIAC (league) championships, and took the Wreckers to the state finals twice, most recently last month — is stepping down.

Goldshore — whose team this winter filled the gym, galvanized the town and inspired a generation of younger players — sent this message to the Staples basketball community an hour ago:

“After deep reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step away as head boys basketball coach at Staples.

“This was not an easy decision. Over the past 9 years — 5 as an assistant and 4 as head coach — this has meant far more to me than a position or title. It has been a purpose, an identity, a privilege, and something I have poured my heart into every day.

“I have always believed this role deserves full energy, and full presence and I am confident that the program will be left in very capable hands.

“I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me, for the support you gave this program, and for the opportunity to coach you or your sons. It has been an honor to be part of this journey.”

Coach Dave Goldshore, at last month’s state championship at Mohegan Sun. 

Athletic director VJ Sarullo added: “This afternoon, Coach Goldshore held a meeting with our student-athletes to share that he has resigned from his position as head coach of our boys basketball program.

“We thank Coach Goldshore for his incredible leadership and commitment, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Coach Goldshore for his dedication to our student-athletes and the Staples High School community.

“Under his leadership, the program achieved an overall record of 85-19, highlighted by 4 consecutive FCIAC Finals appearances, back to back FCIAC championships, and 2 appearances in the CIAC Finals.

“While the on-court accomplishments are significant, the relationships that Coach Goldshore built and the positive culture that he fostered within the program are even more meaningful.

“At Staples High School, we believe the most important quality in our coaches is that they are outstanding individuals who genuinely care about our student-athletes. Coach Goldshore exemplified this standard each and every day and his impact on our program will be lasting.

“I congratulate Coach Goldshore on all that he has accomplished and thank him for the impact that he has made on our student-athletes.  He will always be a Wrecker!”

(Photos/Ryan Allen)

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[OPINION] “Westport Music Teachers Changed My Life”

Posted on April 8, 2026 | 17 comments

Darin Brunstad grew up in Westport, and graduated from Staples High School in 1985. He and his husband David are raising 4 children in upstate Connecticut. Darin writes: 

Whitely, Lipson, Weigle: Westport music teachers who saved me.

I think of them often these days, as my own young kids wend their ways through public school music education: choir, sax, clarinet and trumpet.

I started out labeled “gifted” — an early program which sent us to help classmates learn skills we had already mastered.

I liked helping. But by 3rd grade my life settled into the reality of a bad check- writing, alcoholic, unemployed stepfather; a clinically depressed grandmother caretaker, and a mother who was gone 12 hours a day beating her head bloody against the glass ceiling on Madison Avenue.

I changed elementary schools 6 times (including Kings Highway, Saugatuck, Coleytown and Burr Farms). Each was a progression of barely tolerable experiences, save the last one, which was more “Lord of the Flies” than anything else.

Burr Farms was one of Darin Brunstad’s several elementary schools. (Computer image by Steve Katz)

I was chubby, dirty and unkempt. I combed my hair and saw fleas stuck between the teeth. I was afraid of bathrooms because of The Terrible Thing that happened in one. So much shame and fear to keep locked away.

I also had more concussions than a child is supposed to have. (Shoutout to the Assumption kids — that was me who starred the windshield when my Grandma hit your school bus head on).

This probably fried my brain a bit. But I think most of my academic apocalypse had to do with being the new kid too many times.

Mrs. Whitely was the music teacher at my last elementary school. She had long gray hair she wore up, and glasses on a chain. I don’t think I ever saw her smile.

She was mocked and derided by students, yet somehow managed to expose us to such amazing things: outdoor winter concerts, fiery depictions of “Night on Bald Mountain,” barbershop quartets. She pulled off an excellent performance of “Solomon Grundy,” with the composer in attendance.

My first time on stage singing in her choir, watching her hands guide us along with such intensity, changed me.

The rest of the world disappeared. There was only that moment of creation — something I didn’t quite understand yet, but enjoyed immensely.

I was a boy soprano who could sing higher than any girl. Taunts of “faggot,” plus recess bullying, made me quit. I withdrew further, and spent recess volunteering in the cafeteria.

Three years of a music desert followed, as things got worse both at home and school. Even my main tormentor started feeling sorry for me, knitting his brows and saying, “Are you depressed? You seem depressed!”

By Long Lots Junior High I was too skinny, and desperately tried to make my increasingly tall and lanky body fold into itself to remain completely unnoticed.

But into a cramped basement music room with arena seating, all the way in the dark back corner of our school, came Alice Lipson. She was petite, and had hair all the way down to her waist.

Alice Lipson (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

She tried diligently to teach us heathens about music theory, using Mozart’s “Symphony #40 in G Minor” to illustrate codas, themes and whatnot. There were even handouts. None of that made much sense to me, but the music — the music — grabbed at me.

Mrs. Lipson corralled a gaggle of reluctant 9th graders, and built an immense choir with an ambitious repertoire.

We were rowdy and disobedient, but somehow she coaxed amazing sound out of us. Some teachers in the audience at our concert actually cried. This thing we were doing not only centered me in my chaotic world, but it could affect others too?

By 10th grade at Staples I was fiercely hiding in the closet, and numbing myself regularly with alcohol. I skipped school, lied a lot, and barely passed anything.

Darin Brunstad, sophomore year.

But high school brought George Weigle — an exacting and immensely gifted choir director.

We sang double choir magnificats, spirituals, and put on huge holiday productions. We sang in Latin, Hebrew, German. The professionalism he required of us made us capable musicians, and better people.

Dr. Weigle was nearing the end of his career. He had little patience for nonsense, and famously less for “mediocrity.”

Dr. George Weigle (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

But you’d be wrong to mistake his constant look of intensity and focus as a scowl, even as he looked down at us over his glasses.

In December of sophomore year I came to school late, after a young man I knew took his life. I had spent the previous night trying my best to comfort his mother, and had helped clean up the mess so she wouldn’t have to see it when she returned from the hospital.

I wandered into his choir room and just stood there, still in shock. George Weigle quietly dismissed the 108-voice group and led me into his office. I think he talked to me for an hour.

1984-85 Orphenians.

More than anyone, George Weigle taught me the beauty of that intense moment of silence, after the conductor makes eye contact and right before he raises his baton.

Discipline, focus, intention. Then the sharp intake of breath as he raises it up.

What happens after is always a blur to me. After hours of rehearsals I get lost in the music, barely remembering anything before the final sweeping cutoff motion.

Lost in a beautiful way, though. I just go somewhere else. Somewhere happy.

Darin Brunstad’s senior portrait …

What would I have had if I hadn’t been given this gift of music by these teachers? What would have become of me? Yet my love of music endures, and is integral to my mental health. I can’t imagine life without it.

My husband and I adopted our kids from foster care later in life. l’ve witnessed how music smooths the rough places for them, but those will be their own stories to tell someday.

,,, and today, with a flower he found on the sidewalk.

So to all the beloved music teachers: If you see a kid who is struggling, music may be the answer. Maybe there’s a kid who acts out because they can’t read music and is embarrassed. That was me.

Don’t give up on them. Everything you do is important. It can even be life-saving. Every beginning squeak, scratchy string or flat note can lead to something profound and permanent.

Thank you Mrs. Whitely, Mrs. Lipson, and Dr. Weigle.

George Weigle conducts the 1984 Candlelight concert production number. Darin Brunstad is in the center; he played the father in “Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.”

(“06880″s Opinion pages are open to all. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog with a tax-deductible contribution, please click here.)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Looking back, Staples HS, Teenagers

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