Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Historic Homes, Terrible Traffic, WWPT Winners …

Posted on November 6, 2023 | 5 comments

100 guests toured 4 unique houses yesterday.

Each was special, in its own way. All were impressive. The result was a very successful first-ever “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.

Annette Norton’s small 1700s home on North Avenue was a great attraction for the many residents who drive by often, admire her exterior renovation, and wonder what’s inside.

Annette Norton (left) shows guests the original fireplace, with a mantel she found in upstate Connecticut. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Mark Yurkiw and Wendy Van Wie’s barn is a 2-story, wide-open, wood-paneled  delight that includes Mark’s artwork treasures in every corner.

A view of the Cross Highway barn, from the 2nd-floor landing. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Matt Burrows and Amy Gay surprised visitors to their 1742 home, also on Cross Highway. The exterior is a faithful restoration of a well-known, once-dilapidated property, while the interior is very modern, beautifully designed (by the owners), and open.

Matt Burrows (right) shows off the open floor plan he designed for his home. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Julia Gross and Mark Lamensdorf’s property on Old Hill Road delights at every turn, from original wooden beams and a formidable stone basement, to an old outhouse (now shed) in the back that “seats 3.”

The original door and beams in the original kitchen on Old Hill Road. (Photo/Amy Saperstein)

KMS Team at Compass co-sponsored the event. Karen Scott, Laurie Morris, Michael Mombello, Susan Seath and Karen Hagen were superb docents.

“06880” board members Amy Saperstein, Bill Scheffler and John Dodig (and his husband Rodger Lawrence) assisted, with help from Staples’ Service League of Boys.

“06880” often reports on Westporters who restore — rather than tear down — some of our oldest homes. Yesterday, readers went behind the scenes, to experience 4 of the homes they’d only read about before.

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Speaking of restored homes: Here’s another shot of the continuing work being done at 44 Compo Cove, perhaps the most photographed house in Westport.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

The bones of the 1917 home will remain.

But the interior will look very, very different.

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For the second weekend out of three, the feared “traffic-geddon” generated by the I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge replacement project was largely avoided.

Traffic flowed smoothly — well, as smoothly as our “new normal” on Friday night, all day Saturday, Sunday morning, and early Sunday afternoon.

Then — for the second Sunday afternoon out of 3 — Westport was suddenly gridlocked.

Just like 2 weeks ago, traffic materialized out of nowhere. And it was everywhere.

Saugatuck — and feeder arteries like Greens Farms Road and Bridge Street — were jammed.

A line of cars and trucks extended from the North Kings Highway/Wilton Road light, all the way past Hudson Malone.

And the stretch from Parker Harding Plaza to the Post Road/Riverside Avenue/Wilton Road cluster**** was as bad as its ever been.

Some drivers waited patiently. Others devised new maneuvers to try to gain an edge, creating (of course) further chaos.

The state Department of Transportation once again completed the “bridge slide” portion of the project ahead of schedule.

The southbound span of I-95 was open around 4:30 p.m. But traffic continued for quite a while on the mean streets of Westport.

“It defies logic,” says Dan Vener, who took this photo of I-95 traffic, while stuck in the ground-level jam:

(Photo/Dan Vener)

Meanwhile, for a fascinating time-lapse version of the “bridge slide” — from 6 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Sunday — click below:

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it’s an annual tradition.

But it never gets old.

This weekend, Staples High School’s WWPT-FM broadcasters traveled to Chicago for the John Drury Radio Awards ceremony.

The station earned 16 nominations. They earned 11 honors — all (as anyone who ever listens to 90.3 knows), very well deserved.

Congratulations to:

  • Best Station Advisor: Geno Heiter
  • Broadcaster of the Year winner: Charlie Scott
  • Broadcaster of the year finalists: Elise Eisenberger, Henry Manning & Katherine Spada
  • Best DJ: Charlie Scott
  • 2nd place, News Feature: Maya Brody
  • 2nd place, Newscast: Charlie Scott
  • 2nd place, Radio Drama (@playersinsta )
  • 3rd place Talk Show: Henry Manning & Charlie Scott
  • 3rd place, Sportscast: Elise Eisenberger & Charlie Scott
  • 3rd place, Sports Play by Play: Devon Jarvis & Mason Siskind
  • 3rd place, Specialty Music: Cooper Sadler

Other nominations garnered 4th and 5th places.

WWPT rocks!

And obviously, does much more too.

At the John Drury Awards (from left): WWPT-FM advisor Geno Heiter, Devon Jarvis, Maya Brody, Katherine Spada, Henry Manning, Charlie Scott.

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Jon Gailmor — the beloved Vermont musical icon — returned to his Westport home town yesterday, for a sold-out show at the VFW.

The 1966 Staples graduate was joined by a few talented friends: former classmates Rob Carlson (his singing partner from the 1970s) and Roger Kaufman, plus Suzanne Sheridan, the producer of the popular “First Folk Sunday” series.

It was a trip back to a magical musical time.

And just perfect for these days, too.

From left: Jon Gailmor, Roger Kaufman, Suzanne Sheridan, Rob Carlson. (Photo/Pam Washburn)

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Yesterday was jam-packed.

The Westport Arts Advisory Committee sponsored its annual TEA (Thinkers, Educators, Artists) Talk at the Westport Library.

A crowd of 150 people heard experts — including Emmy- and Grammy Award-winning 1971 Staples grad Brian Keane, town-wide K-12 arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman, and artist/arts consultant Liz Leggett — discuss “What’s Next for the Arts?,” as it faces challenges from artificial intelligence.

Topics included whether or not AI poses an existential risk to the arts; the role of education; the pure joy of making art, and — intriguingly — how we decide what is real, not real, and “authentic.” Does, in fact, “authentic” matter at all?

Panelists used AI tools to create illustration and art, using prompts from attendees. Artists showed traditional techniques.

There was a lot to think about.

And every comment was generated by humans.

Panelists — each under their photo — at yesterday’s TEA Talk.

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Field Trip jerky — the very popular producer of healthy, protein-rich snacks ranging from beef, chicken, turkey and pork to jalapeño, cracked pepper and everything bagel — is headquartered in downtown Westport.

But it reaches all over the country.

Literally.

The other day, Bruce Miller and his wife were in Alaska. On a tour of Denali National Park, guests received a snack box.

Inside was a Field Trip Cracked Pepper Turkey Stick.

“We traveled 4,400 miles from home to enjoy a local treat!” he says.

You don’t have to go to The Last Frontier.

Field Trip is sold at retailers like Stop & Shop and CVS.

And in their only retail outlet, next to their Post Road offices opposite Design Within Reach.

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Artists Collective of Westport member Maj Kalfus’ work is featured at the Weston Senior Center, through the end of December. Her 30 pieces include oil paintings, collage, brush and ink, graphite, digital art and drawings from life.

A reception is set for November 16 (6 to 8 p.m.). Kalfus teaches at the Westport Senior Center. Her portrait of Ella Fitzgerald was featured at the recent Westport Country Playhouse tribute to the jazz singer.

Works by Maj Kalfus

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As we head into mid-fall — with winter not too far away — this is the “Westport … Naturally” scene from Ellen Wentworth’s living room:

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … in honor of our great “Historic Homes of 06880” tour (story above):

(A lot went on this weekend — and, as always, “06880” previewed, and now reviews, it. If you enjoy our hyper-local coverage, please consider a contribution. Click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Real estate, Staples HS, Transportation

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Roundup: Israel Signs, PAL Auction, Crowdsourcing …

Posted on October 30, 2023 | 4 comments

Yesterday,”06880″ reported on antisemitic signs in Weston.

Yesterday morning too, a sign with an Israeli flag was found defaced at the corner of Coleytown and Lyons Plains Roads — just a few yards from Temple Israel.

The message is clear: “Israel has blood on its hands.”

The incident was reported to the Westport Police, FBI and Secure Community Network.

At the same time, Weston Police learned that one Israel sign was stolen from a resident’s property, and 2 other flag signs were defaced similar to the one in Westport.

Weston Police are conducting neighborhood canvases and checking residential security cameras. They ask anyone with information to call 203-222-2600.

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The Westport PAL online auction now open contains the usual great local items, like gift certificates and sports tickets.

But there are a few special items too that we haven’t seen anywhere else, including a 3-month membership to the private Autostrada club, 5 hour-long boxing sessions with Rich Dean, and the chance to be police or fire chief for the day.

Click here for the full list, and to bid. Funds help build the new PAL clubhouse at PJ Romano Field. The auction ends this Thursday (November 2) at 9 p.m.

The Autostrada lounge overlooks the private car collection.

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The National Charity League fosters mother-daughter relationships through a 6-year program of community service, leadership development and cultural experiences.

The Westport chapter has more than 275 members — women and their daughters in grades 7-12 — and provides volunteer support to over 30 non-profits.

Mothers of 6th grade girls are welcome to apply. Click here for more information, or email nclwmembership@gmail.com.

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After graduating from Staples High School in 2009, Cronin Cullen became an actor, filmmaker and producer.

His latest project, “12 Hours,” is about a single mother’s desperate night-long search for her fentanyl-addicted son. It is based on true events from the writer/ director, Kelly Stanphill.

The issue is close to Cronin’s heart. He has lost Westport friends to substance abuse.

A crowdsourcing campaign launched last week. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here for more information, and to contribute.

Cronin Cullen

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows Axel. He dressed up in Hawaiian garb this weekend, to enjoy a day at the beach.

(Photo/Melissa Sobil Zitomer)

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And finally … When I was a kid growing up in Westport, Halloween Eve was called “Mischief Night.” Fortunately, the statute of limitations is long past. (Don’t ask about the time I tossed my own parents’ mailbox into the pond across the street.)

In some parts of the country, it’s called Devil’s Night. Enjoy!

(Be an angel! Please support “06880.” Click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

4 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Police, Politics, Staples HS, Weston

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All Are Welcome At Staples Players’ “Prom”

Posted on October 30, 2023 | 3 comments

Sure, it’s mid-autumn. But Staples High School is putting on a prom.

And the entire town is invited.

‘The Prom” is Staples Players’ fall musical. It’s a hilarious, clever, dance-filled show with great music, high energy, and an important message delivered in a delightful way, without an ounce of preachiness.

The young actors, dancers and musicians are having a great time. Their only concern is that theater-goers are unfamiliar with “The Prom.” (It was a Broadway Drama Desk Award winner for Best Musical, and a Netflix film starring Meryl Streep, James Corden and Nicole Kidman, but for some reason people don’t recall the easy-to-remember name.)

Henry Carson (center) and “The Prom” ensemble. 

Players had a similar situation last spring, with “Twelfth Night.” After the first week, word-of-mouth inspired a rush for tickets. Soon, they were sold out.

“The Prom” follows 4 fading Broadway actors. They head to a conservative Indiana town to help a lesbian student forbidden from bringing her girlfriend to a dance. They go for the wrong reasons, but along the way learn important life lessons.

The show — based on a true Mississippi story — “appeals to everyone,” says co-director David Roth.

“It’s a great show to take your kids to. It’s all about inclusion, compassion and love.”

“Plus, it’s very, very funny.”

Imogen Medoff 

“The Prom” recently made headlines when an Illinois school postponed the show (scheduled for next April) because, the superintendent said, “the building is not ready to handle the amount of negative attention that would be put on the kids” for taking part in the musical.

Following an uproar, the district backed down. The show will go on.

Nothing close to that has happened in Westport. Everyone involved in “The Prom” embraces it.

“Our kids were talking about that Illinois story,” Roth says. “A lot of them say they’re so thankful to live here, and not in that environment. Players is their safe space. They really understand what’s going on.”

Yusef Abudullah, and the ensemble. (All photos/Kerry Long)

Several actors say this is their favorite show ever at Staples. The cast is diverse, with both familiar names and students stepping into larger roles. The freshman class has brought “great energy” to Players, Roth notes.

“The Prom” is almost here. Opening night for the 2-week run is Friday, November 10.

And no one has to worry about a date. Bring whoever you want!

(“The Prom” performances are November 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees November 12 and 18 at 3 p.m. Click here for tickets, the cast list and more information. 

(Players will raise money at the show for the Westport Public Schools Pride Coalition, to create a mural and install a bench celebrating Staples’ LGBTQ+ community. A block of seats has been set aside for the November 18 matinee, for members of the LGBTQ+ community, their allies, families and advocacy groups to enjoy the show together. Click here for special tickets.)

 

 

 

 

3 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Scarice Addresses Social Media Concerns, “Toxic Achievement” Culture

Posted on October 28, 2023 | 10 comments

In the wake of several disturbing incidents involving social media (mis)use by Westport students, Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice sends this message to parents:

One of the important, but unfortunate, roles of our school administrators is to address misconduct by students ranging from minor to extremely serious. We also address the impact of any misconduct on other students and the school community.

Since the start of this school year, we have addressed acts of bullying, threatening, harassment on the basis of protected classes, and in some cases, threats of violence and actual violence.

Our new reality is that most of the incidents stem from interactions among students over social media. Students are creating and circulating videos, exchanging text messages, or recording and sharing misconduct (i.e. bullying, threatening, violence, etc.) as it occurs in real time. This is highly disturbing, and disruptive to the school environment.

Students today have access to multiple social media platforms.

If your child has access to TikTok or other social media platforms, as most secondary, and some elementary students do, they have likely viewed such videos that have originated and been widely disseminated from students in Westport, and also from others across the country.

What’s problematic is that most of these incidents originate outside of school (i.e. at home, in the community, on weekends, etc.), yet these incidents have proven to have a significant negative impact on our students’ well-being and sense of safety, as well as the entire school environment.

As such, when these incidents occur, even if off campus, it is within the purview of the school district to administer consequences and seek restoration between students when appropriate.

You will likely hear about these unfortunate incidents. However, I want to caution that information you might hear in the community is not necessarily what we have found to have actually occurred following careful investigations.

Rumor and misinformation contribute to a climate of fear. There are very clear and rigid student privacy laws that the district must follow. We cannot share all information that occurs within the disciplinary matters the schools must address.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

However, I can assure you that there are comprehensive processes in place to investigate and swiftly address these matters. Each of the incidents that has occurred this year, including those in the past month, has been handled in accordance with the district code of conduct, bullying and harassment laws, and other applicable laws.

Additionally, I can assure you that beyond consequences, the district aims to restore and provide supportive measures where appropriate. Whenever our students are affected by these incidents, we support them in a variety of ways.  We strictly prohibit all forms of bullying, harassment, and hate-based conduct, and we are constantly working toward cultivating a school culture and environment that is safe and inclusive for all students.

These are top priorities for us at all times. However, at the present moment, these incidents have taken on a heightened significance as we confront international violence and atrocities that have affected many members of our community, both directly and indirectly.

We are addressing an increasing number of off-campus social media incidents.  We cannot do this alone and need parental support. We ask that you are fully attuned to your child’s social media consumption and dissemination.

Any member of our school community who becomes aware of an act of bullying, harassment, violence, or threats should promptly report these concerns to their building principal, assistant principal, or other staff member. If you have media recordings we ask that you share them with the building administration to assist in our investigations. We take these matters extremely seriously, and we ask that our families serve as partners in helping us identify and prevent this conduct in school, out of school, and online.

Scarice also wants parents to know about an important upcoming event.

I am halfway through the book “Never Enough” by Jennifer Breheny Wallace.  As a fellow parent, I give this book my highest recommendation to our parent community.

On Wednesday, November 15, at 7 p.m. in the Westport Library, Westport Together and the Library will host the author of “Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—and What We Can Do About It.” I strongly encourage you to make time to attend.

Drawing on interviews with families, educators, and an original survey of nearly 6,000 parents, Wallace investigates the deep roots of toxic achievement culture and finds out what we must do to support our kids. She maintains that the pressure to perform is not a matter of parental choice but is baked into our larger society and the daily experience of families. As a result, she contends that children are increasingly absorbing the message that they have no value outside of their accomplishments, a message that is reinforced by the media and greater culture at large.

Today’s students truly face unprecedented pressure to succeed, however that is defined by families and society. Through deep research and interviews with today’s leading child psychologists, Wallace illustrates that what kids need from adults is not more pressure, but to feel like they matter, that they have intrinsic self-worth not exclusively contingent upon external achievements.

Wallace makes the case that parents and educators who adopt the language and values of “mattering” help children see themselves as a valuable contributor to a larger community. In an ironic twist, Wallace shares that kids who receive consistent feedback that they matter, no matter what, are more likely to have the resilience, self-confidence, and psychological security to thrive.

If you are concerned about these dynamics for your own child, or for the community, I strongly encourage you to join us on November 15 at 7 p.m. at the Westport Library.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please support our work, by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Unsung Hero #307

Posted on October 25, 2023 | 2 comments

One of the hidden treasures of a visit to Dr. Nikki Gorman’s Village Pediatrics is  the Storywalk, behind her Riverside Avenue office.

There, by the Saugatuck River, a rotating series of books entertains youngsters.

Dr. Nikki is also Girl Scout leader. Now, one of her troop members is curating a series of 3 books. Changing seasonally, all raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, in  a fun setting.

The Storywalk, behind Village Pediatrics.

Sophia Lomnitz was spurred to action by the recent wave of book bans across the nation. Her first effort is “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding,” by Sarah S. Brannen.

It’s about a young girl who worries that when her favorite uncle is marrying his boyfriend, he won’t have time to play with her anymore. She realizes though that she’s not losing one uncle — she’s gaining another one.

Sophia is president of Staples High School’s Psychology Club, and a member of both the senior class committee and swim team.

Sophia Lomnitz

“I’m super proud of her,” Dr. Nikki says. “She’s been my Girl Scout for over 11 years, and is a true gem. She has the biggest heart I’ve ever seen, and she is super funny and smart. She does it all with a smile.

“I love having a Storywalk behind us, with exposure for the younger set to different ideas of families, relationships, etc. Normalization and representation are so important.

“I am so proud of Sophia for this project.  It really highlights what a kind and sensitive soul she is.”

When she leaves for college next year, Sophia will hand the Storywalk project to another Girl Scout.

Congratulations, Sophia. Quietly but impactfully, you are our Unsung Hero of the Week!

Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. 

(“Unsung Hero” is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. Please support our work, with a contribution. Click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Media, Staples HS, Teenagers, Unsung Heroes

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Pic Of The Day #2379

Posted on October 23, 2023 | 1 comment

Spectacular Staples High School fall foliage — main entrance (Photo/Dayle Brownstein)

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Roundup: Traffic, Garden, “The Exorcist” …

Posted on October 23, 2023 | 6 comments

We expected the worst all weekend.

“The slide” — the simultaneously high-tech and low-tech effort to replace the aging I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge with a new one, constructed alongside it — began Friday afternoon.

Dire warnings of gridlock aside, traffic flowed smoothly through Westport Friday night. And all day Saturday. And Sunday morning.

Anyone who expected a long journey on the Post Road, or through Saugatuck, zipped right along.

Until yesterday afternoon.

Suddenly, things were as bad as we’ve ever seen. The Post Road was jammed for miles, and drivers were not playing nice. Running red lights, blocking side streets, pulling into oncoming traffic — if there was a way to be a jerk, they found it.

Meanwhile, Waze and similar apps were routing drivers through parts of Westport that seldom see traffic, like Gorham Avenue and Hermit Lane. Hermit Lane!

The bizarre thing is: “The slide” was completed far earlier than expected. By mid-afternoon yesterday, the new bridge was in place.

The state Department of Transportation send out this message:

So yeah, we survived “the slide.”

Now we just have to do it all over again, 2 weeks from now.

The other side of the bridge is not going to move itself. (Hat tip: Susan Iseman)

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Michael Beebe reports from the Westport Community Gardens:

“Despite the soggy weather and the pall cast by the Long Lots School Building Committee recommendation, our final workday of the 2023 gardening season was Saturday,

“24 volunteers cleaned up the garden grounds, and made them ready for winter.  We are all hopeful that come spring, we will be readying our plots for planting our seedlings, as we have for 20 years.

Erin and Steve Loranger, getting the Community Garden ready for winter.

“In many ways it was business as usual. But between loads of wood chips, there

was a lot of discussion of the town’s decision to destroy the hard work of this hearty community.

“We even had a couple of visitors: a Long Lots parent and her kindergarten daughter. They wanted to learn more about the garden, in light of the controversy. The mom seemed concerned that the controversy about the garden was holding up construction of the school.

“I pointed out that the actual debate is about sports fields vs the garden. In fact, the LLSBC had an option which left the garden right where it was — proving that the garden itself is not an obstacle to a timely start. They just chose a different option.”

Michael sent photos of “a cheerful crew doing what we have always done: getting fresh air, working together as a community, and keeping the gardens beautiful.”

Volunteering at the Community Gardens work day (from left): Andrew Giangrave, Julie O’Grady, Teresa Roth, Franco Fellah, Patty Duecy, Pipa Ader.

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Just after 4 p.m. yesterday, Westport Police were alerted to a boating incident, with missing people.

Sometime after 9:30 a.m., a small fishing boat anchored on the south side of Cockenoe Island sank, in choppy waters.

There were 5 people on the small vessel; all ended up in Long Island Sound.  The Westport Police Marine Unit rescued 3. Assisted by the US Coast Guard Marine and Air Units, Norwalk and Fairfield Police Marine Divisions, and Suffolk County Air Unit, they searched for the other 2.

The 2 missing men are from Spring Valley and Suffern, New York.  A significant language barrier hampered ability to identify the missing men.  Police are working with translators during the investigation.

Any boaters near Cockenoe Island between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. yesterday are asked to call the Westport Police Department: 203-341-6000.

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This marks the 50th anniversary of the release of “The Exorcist.”

It’s hard to remember now, but reaction to the film was vehement. Much of it centered around Regan, the girl who was possessed (and whose head swiveled completely around, and who spewed green vomit and did unspeakable things with a crucifix).

Come to think of it, maybe that reaction wasn’t so unpredictable.

Regan was played by Linda Blair. A 14-year-old Staples High School student who had been working as a model and actress since she was 6, she was chosen from  600 others for the role.

Blair earned a Golden Globe Award, was nominated for an Oscar — and received death threats for her “blasphemy.” (She also dated Rick Springfield who, age 25, was 10 years older.)

All of that background is because yesterday’s New York Times included a 50-year retrospective of “The Exorcist.” Three critics assess the film’s impact, then and now. Click here to read. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Linda Blair in “The Exorcist.”

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“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods by giving new life to old properties.

Which is why our first-ever “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour is so special. On Sunday, November 5 (2 to 5 p.m.), you’ll have a chance to check out 4 of our town’s oldest, most interesting homes.

The go-at-your-own-pace tour includes:

  • 29 North Avenue, the fascinating tiny 1700s home that Annette Norton has lovingly restored
  • 39 Cross Highway, the handsome remodeled house at the corner of Weston Road that recently won a preservation award
  • 190 Cross Highway, the intriguing barn/artists’ studio that the British passed on their way to burn the Danbury arsenal, and
  • 6 Old Hill Road, the 1707 home that was lovingly restored after a 2-year renovation project.

Homeowners, members of “06880”‘s board of directors, and our friends from KMS Team at Compass will point out cool aspects of each home. We’ll answer questions. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. It’s our “Donate” page. Please note “Historic Homes of ‘06880’” with your order.

29 North Avenue

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A large crowd enjoyed Neil Gaiman’s StoryFest lecture on Friday.

It also doubled as the fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts. The twice-annual event was endowed by Susan Malloy.

But who was she?

Before Gaiman spoke, Ann Sheffer — Malloy’s niece — gave some insights into the woman who devoted her life the arts, libraries, and Westport (and who would have been 100 years this coming February 28):

Ann said:

“Susan was my mother’s younger sister. They, their brother and their parents started coming to Westport in the early 1930s. In 1935 they bought a 1790 house on Cross Highway.

“My parents moved to Westport in the early 1950s, and Susan and family moved here in the early ’60s. They were all deeply enmeshed in the political, educational and cultural life of our community.

“Susan studied at the Art Students League after college. In Westport she a studio in her house, and painted every day – between carpooling, PTA meetings, and working to create the Westport Schools Permanent Art Collection and Arts Center, among other Westport institutions. She also created birdhouses for the Project Return auction.

“In our family, a common theme was a love of libraries. My grandfather, an immigrant who dropped out of school after 8th grade, loved books, bought libraries at estate sales and gave them away. He endowed libraries, including this one, through his Tudor Foundation.

“The Malloy Lecture represents the convergence of all of Susan’s interests and talents.”

Susan Malloy

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The Staples High School boys soccer team is enjoying a banner year. They head into this week’s FCIAC playoffs, and next month’s state tournament, as the #2 team in Connecticut.

To keep their program on top — and pay for things like assistant coaches, field maintenance and more — they’re running an online auction.

Items include a ski house, cooking classes, boat trips, Broadway tickets and more.

Click here to see all the items, and bid. The auction ends next Sunday (October 29, 10 p.m.).

The 2023 Staples boys varsity, JV and freshman teams. (Photo/Mark Sikorski)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image — of last of the fall” dahlias — comes courtesy of Peter J. Swift (and the Westport Community Gardens).

(Photo/Peter J. Swift)

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And finally … as we celebrate “The Exorcist”‘s 50th anniversary (story above):

(Welcome to another week of “06880”: your hyper-local blog. Every week, we rely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Police, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS, Transportation

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Westporter’s “Girl Math” Goes Viral

Posted on October 15, 2023 | 2 comments

One of the most popular courses at Staples High School is Financial Literacy.

A junior recently won a national award in the field.

Yet a June graduate has taken the internet by storm, with TikTok videos explaining to her father how concert tickets, Venmo accounts, free shipping and the like can be “free” money.

It’s all tongue in cheek, of course.

I hope.

The teenager is Marley Brown. The 2023 Staples grad is now a first year student at the University of Massachusetts.

Her father is Austin Brown.

Their 4-part TikTok series is called “Girl Math.”

In the first video Marley said, “If I buy concert tickets for two people, and those people pay me back, the money they pay me back for is free” — because the funds had already left her bank account.

“But then you just use the money twice,” Austin noted.

Marley disagreed. According to “girl math,” getting the money back meant it was free.

@marleyvbrown

he doesnt get it #swiftok #swiftie #taylorswift #girlmath

♬ original sound – marley brown

That video racked up more than 1.6 million views.

That’s nothing compared to their third TikTok. Explaining — quite clearly, according to many followers — that paying Starbucks out of money already in the app makes it free (though her dad disagrees), they were watched over 11.5 million times.

@marleyvbrown

im crying #swiftok #swiftie #taylorswift #girlmath

♬ original sound – marley brown

Marley also explains to her father why not buying something on sale is akin to losing money …

@marleyvbrown

we agree on one thing at least #swiftok #swiftie #taylorswift #girlmath

♬ original sound – marley brown

… and the difference between “feeling” something is free, versus the reality of it.

@marleyvbrown

he just doesnt understand #swiftok #swiftie #taylorswift #girlmath

♬ original sound – marley brown

Marley’s “Girl Math” has exploded beyond the world of TikTok. She (and her dad) have been covered by Newsweek, the Daily Mail and Independent.

And, of course, the Wall Street Journal.

Somewhere, Marley’s Staples Financial Literacy teacher is laughing.

Or crying.

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Posted in Economy, Media, Staples HS

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Roundup: Candidates’ Debate, Carjack And Gun Arrests, Longshore Meeting …

Posted on October 7, 2023 | 8 comments

Who you gonna believe: the comments section of “06880,” or your own ears?

With local elections looming, Westport’s League of Women Voters has scheduled 3 important debates. All take place in the Town Hall auditorium.

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the stage October 11 (7 p.m.). They’re followed by a double-header October 12: the Board of Education at 7 p.m., Board of Finance at 8:15.

This is your chance to hear — and assess — the men and women vying to lead our town. Come to Town Hall; then make an informed decision.

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Yesterday, with the help of the Waterbury Police Department, Westport detectives took 22-year-old Garrett Gibbs of Waterbury into custody for his involvement in the September 17th carjacking incident.

The arrest followed an intense investigation. Gibbs was charged with the following crimes:

  • Home Invasion
  • Burglary 1st degree
  • Robbery by carjacking
  • Assault 3rd degree
  • Larceny 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit larceny 1st degree
  • Robbery 1st degree

he is being held at the Westport Police Department on a $500,000.00 bond. He will appear in Stamford Superior Court on October 16.

Westport Police detectives are still working this case, and anticipate additional arrests.

Yesterday was a busy one for the WPD. They also arrested a 17-year-old juvenile from Stratford for an incident on July 11, when shots fired in Saugatuck. 

The youth is currently incarcerated at Manson Youth Institute, following a previous arrest by another agency. The arrest came after a lengthy investigation by the Detective Bureau, involving multiple interviews and search warrants. 

The teen was charged with:

  • Unlawful discharge of a firearm
  • Conspiracy to commit unlawful discharge of a firearm
  • Reckless endangerment 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit reckless endangerment 1s degree
  • Breach of peace
  • Conspiracy to commit breach of peace.

He will  appear in Bridgeport Juvenile Court on October 13. Police anticipate additional arrests.

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A twice-postponed Parks & Recreation Commission meeting has been rescheduled to October 18 (Town Hall Room 201, 7:30 p.m.). The agenda includes discussion of the Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.

The first meeting was interrupted due to a medical emergency. The second — this past Thursday — was planned as a virtual session. It never began, due to technical issues.

Among the concerns of attendees: where on the property to place the planned pickleball courts.

Changes will be coming soon to Longshore.

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Gaetano’s Deli is a favorite with Staples students.

So it’s a natural location for the high school radio station’s live broadcasts today.

Award-winning WWPT will set up a tent and remote facility outside the Post Road East spot. Everyone is welcome to stop by, and see these great young radio broadcasters in action.

And if you can’t be there, listen in: 90.3 FM, or online.

Check out the schedule below:

(Graphic by Henry Manning)

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It’s tough: How can parents talk honestly with their children about drug use, without sounding preachy, unrealistic or clueless?

All this month, the Westport Prevention Coalition is offering free streaming access to a 52-minute documentary, “Don’t Wait.”e.

Substances have changed over the years. Cannabis concentrates can deliver 96% pure THC with no CBD or plant matter. Delivery mechanisms like vapes and pouches are relatively new too.

The film updates parents’ knowledge, and helps them answer tough questions from their kids. Click here to stream the video.

As follow-up for parents who want more information, WPC plans 2 Zoom sessions for parents (October 24 and 26). Click here to register.

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PinkLand — the Pink Aid online auction, raising funds to help people with breast cancer — opens Monday. It runs through Thursday.

Over 300 items are available for online bidding. They include:

  • Brendan Murphy painting (value: $21,000)
  • Yankees Legends seats for 2024 ($3,000)
  • 2 tickets to “Watch What Happens Live” with Andy Cohen (TBD)
  • 4 VIP wristbands for Governor’s Ball Music Festival 2024 ($3,200)
  • 3 night Oceanview King stay at Mauna Lani, including buffet breakfast ($5,000)
  • Clase Azul Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Reposado tequila ($4,999)
  • Keith Urban Guitar ($500)
  • Courtside Knicks tickets ($2,500)
  • 4 tickets and field passes to Mets-Giants ($150)
  • Sholeh Janati painting ($5,800)

Tickets are still available for the October 12th luncheon at Mitchells of Westport (11 a.m.). Click here for more information — and to see all auction items, and bid.

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Westport celebrates UN Day with a special Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Lecture.

Kuwait Ambassador to the UN Tareq Albanai will speak on “Identifying Opportunities for Creative Diplomacy to Solve Global Challenges: A View from the Arabian Gulf” (October 24, 7 p.m., Westport Library). He’ll take audience questions afterward.

Ambassador Albanai has long experience dealing with issues of disarmament. A graduate of George Washington University, he is fluent in Arabic, English and Spanish.

Click here to register for in-person participation or streaming. The event is co-sponsored by the Library, and the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.

Kuwait Ambassador to the United Nations Tareq Albanai.

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Rachel Rose is a 2014 Staples High School graduate. She now lives in Fairfield.

The former Orphenian, who studied privately with Cynthia Gibb, is now a professional singer. She calls her style achel calls her style “Jewish soul, contemporary soul and R&B.”

She entered a Jimmy Fallon “Battle of the Instant Songwriters” contest a year ago. On Wednesday, a representative called to see if she wanted to appear on the show.

On Thursday, there she was: on national TV. She and a fellow musician were given an hour to write a song, then perform it.

The title she was provided: “I Think This Airbnb is Haunted.”

How did she do? Click below!

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Alert “06880” reader Rita Corridon was checking out the New York Times’ “The Morning” feature today.

One piece began:

My hometown has a gardening store so lavish, so over-the-top curated with weather-stained terra-cotta planters the size of vintners’ casks, crumbling concrete birdbaths rescued from Eden and a jungle’s worth of fronds and boughs and leaves that it is a destination.

Out-of-towners come to gaze at its tableaux of mosses, hand-forged shears and fairy lights, to dine on seasonal produce at its in-house café. I think there might be an actual waterfall back by the table linens.

I love going to this store, wandering its aisles and imagining how different my life would be if I could inhabit its forever-green promise, like Keats gazing on the Grecian urn.

“That must be Terrain!” Rita thought.

She looked up the author, Melissa Kirsch.

Sure enough, the “hometown” she talks about is Westport.

Click here for the full piece.

“Lavish, over-the top” Terrain.

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Another teardown: Tom Lowrie reports: “A week ago, the house at 148 Old Road was demolished.

148 Old Road then … (Photo/courtesy of Google Maps)

“The site was covered with large trees and brush. The following week all but the best trees were cut down. A mountain of wood chips, logs and house materials were carted away.

“Then the CAT machines went to work, digging out stumps and and piling all the topsoil for future leveling of the site.”

Just another day in the world of Westport real estate.

… and now.

(Photos/Tom Lowrie)

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Westporter Howard Matson — a past international president of the Circumnavigators Club — hosted a dinner last nigh at New York’s Union League Club honoring Tony and Maureen Wheeler, writers and publishers of the Lonely Planet guidebook empire. The couple received the club’s highest recognition: the Order of Magellan.

Matson, who now serves on the club’s Board of Governors, has hosted in past years Jacques Cousteau, Walter Cronkite and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

Howard Matson (center) with Maureen and Tony Wheeler.

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“Westport … Naturally” features our town’s natural wonders. Horseshoe crabs — which have been around for 440 million years — certainly qualify.

But these guys didn’t climb on the (man-made) Burying Hill Beach pier by themselves.

They needed help from humans. Our species is about 300,000 years old.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … speaking of the candidates’ debates next week (story above):

(“06880” is your place for healthy debate — and local journalism. If you appreciate our work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here — thank you!)

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Posted in Local politics, Longshore, Real estate, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Charlie Karp, Rainbow Crosswalk, Historic Home …

Posted on October 3, 2023 | 2 comments

The New England Music Hall of Fame has a new member: Charlie Karp.

The Staples High School Class of 1971 member — who left school to play with Buddy Miles, then worked with Jimi Hendrix and Keith Richards, wrote songs for Joan Jett and Joe Perry, before returning home to earn a fanatic following with bands like Dirty Angels, White Chocolate, Slo Leak and the Namedroppers, while simultaneously earning Emmys as a producer of music for sports networks, documentaries and feature films, and becoming a guitar teaching mentor to generations of aspiring young stars — was inducted posthumously.

Karp died in 2019, a few weeks after being diagnosed with liver cancer.

The ceremony was led, fittingly, by Brian Keane. A Staples classmate (and friend since Coleytown Junior High) — and himself a Grammy-winning artist, songwriter and producer — he and Karp often collaborated on musical projects. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Brian Kean (left) and Charlie Karp. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Westport’s rainbow crosswalk was installed yesterday, by the Department of Public Works.

As the photo below shows, this one will last quite a while. It replaces the temporary one laid down in June on Jesup Road at Taylor Place, to celebrate Pride Month.

This crosswalk — funded by private donations — will be dedicated at 1 p.m. October 11: National Coming Out Day.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Nearly 80 members and guests of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston enjoyed a tour of an architectural landmark on Sunday.

Fellow Y’s Man Win Allen opened his historic home on Burritt’s Landing North.

He’s notable too. Allen founded the first Black-owned broker dealer firm on Wall Street. His book “I Pried Open Wall Street in 1962” chronicles his journey.

He and his late wife Ruby bought their home in 1975. Built in 1957, it was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s protégé Roy Binkley. His Wikipedia entry mentions the Allen House in Westport — listed on the National Register of Historic Places — as one of his masterpieces.

Allen told the Y’s men that Marilyn Monroe spent months in the house as a guest of director Lee Strasberg, when he conducted workshops for prominent actors there.

Win Allen’s landmark home ..,

… and Allen (center) with his guests. (Photos/Dave Matlow)

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The Westport Farmers’ Market is a Thursday tradition for shoppers of all ages.

Including the youngest.

Each week, the WFM’s “Get Growing” program includes a craft or activity for kids and toddlers. It introduces them early to the importance of shopping locally and sustainably.

Program leader Mae Farrell loves interacting with kids and their families, while providing a fun place to visit.

As the program grows, so has its need for craft items. On October 12 and 19, WFM hosts a craft material drive. They’re looking for cheese cloth, paper, pom pons, markers, crayons, shells, toilet paper rolls, mini wooden ornament slabs, cookie cutters, felt, dried beans and lentils, ribbon, clay, washable paints, paper straws and white paper plates.

The Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Little kids love the Farmers’ Market. (Photo/Margaret Kraus)

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Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church’s new “Music & Arts” year kicks off this Saturday (October 7), with an afternoon of all things Celtic.

Attendees will enjoy Irish dancing, learn to play a bodhran, and discover other Celtic activities for all ages. All activities are free, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.; everyone is invited.

At 4:30, a concert in Branson Hall features Ringrose and Freeman, accompanied by Loretta Murphy on accordion and Mary Gardner on bodhran. Food, drink and s’mores follow at the fire pit.

Tickets for the concert are $35 for adults; children are free. Click here to purchase.

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Speaking of music: One of Jazz at the Post’s most popular performers — Westport’s own Melissa Newman — returns this Thursday (October 5; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover; reservations: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).

The Westporter will be joined by guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.

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Another iconic Westporter — internationally best-selling author Jane Green — takes the Sacred Heart University Theatre stage this winter.

She’ll be Chris Sarandon’s guest on his podcast, “Cooking by Heart.” The “worlds of literature and gastronomy (will) converge in a symphony of flavors, anecdotes, and inspiration” as she and Sarandon talk about childhood memories, share recipes, and chat about their culinary creations.

Click here for tickets.

Jane Green (Photo/Ian Warburg)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows mushrooms.

Many mushrooms.

Scott Smith writes: “I was in the yard this weekend after Friday’s deluge and took these photos. Fungi were on the logs that enclose my compost heap.

“What strikes me about the mushroom colonies is how similar in structure they are to mineral formations and coral reefs, though I bet Mother Nature already knew that. The ephemeral bulbs sprout up in the yard this time of year. Life blossoms even as the decay and decomposition of fall sets in.”

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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And finally … if you never heard Charlie Karp (story above), click the videos below.

And if you are a Charlie Karp fan, here are a few memories to enjoy.

(Music, the Farmers’ Market, real estate, downtown — it’s all part of the daily “06880” mix. If you enjoy our daily “Roundup,” please support our work. Just click here to contribute. Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Real estate, Staples HS

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