Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: RTM’s Saugatuck Vote, Josh Koskoff & Alex Jones …

Posted on January 18, 2023 | 17 comments

By an overwhelming majority last night, the Representative Town Meeting affirmed the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recent decisions to allow text and map amendments in Saugatuck.

There were 33 RTM members in favor, 1 against (Sal Liccione) and 1 abstention (Matthew Mandell). The vote — following similar margins in the RTM’s Transit and Planning & Zoning Committees — means that planning can proceed for the Hamlet at Saugatuck.

That project could bring new retail, restaurants, residences, and a hotel and marina to the area near the train station.

The RTM vote was required, based on a petition from voters. Twenty-four members had to vote to overturn the P&Z decision — but only 1 did.

Next up: A site plan for the Hamlet project, and approval from the P&Z.

Artists’ rendering of an interior courtyard of The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

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What’s the newest hot place in town for teenagers?

The Westport Library.

It’s been filled all week long, with Staples High School students studying for midterms.

The Trefz Forum — and the rest of the building — has been a place where friends can work together, but where others can find space to be alone. It’s serious, but also social — perfect for teens’ needs.

The other night, library officials surprised the students with 25 pizzas.

They were gone quicker than you could say “good luck with exams!”

Where do Westport teenagers head at night? The Westport Library. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Speaking of the Westport Library: The Trefz Forum will be packed tomorrow morning too (Thursday, January 19, 10 a.m.).

Local attorney (and Staples High graduate) Josh Koskoff will discuss his latest victory: the largest verdict in history in a defamation suit. Koskoff led the case against Alex Jones, who used his Infowars website and daily radio show to present counter-factual information about issues including the Sandy Hook school shooting.

Koskoff’s talk will also be livestreamed. Click here for the link.

The event is co-sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Josh Koskoff

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Speaking still of the Library:

It was packed in November, for the Board of Education’s first “Community Conversation.”

Plenty of topics were discussed — but others, like challenges to books in the high school library, and diversity, equity and inclusion planning — did not have time for exploration.

A second open discussion — picking up where last fall’s left off — is set for next Tuesday (January 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Library). All residents are invited, for a “back-and-forth exchange) with Board of Education members, and school administrators.

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Spiga is a popular New Canaan restaurant, specializing in handmade pasta, brick oven pizza and other Italian fare.

Soon, they’ll add a Westport location. They’re replacing Tarry Lodge on Charles Street. The target date for opening is late March.

It’s one more Italian business in a line that began with Esposito’s gas station, and continued through Abbondanza. (Hat tip: Maria Funicello)

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Speaking of Saugatuck: Mackenzie Winner Berman has a question that’s on the minds of many other Westporters. She writes:

“On Saugatuck Avenue, roughly across the street from the old Westport Chinese/ new Lomito restaurant, is a home with a small storefront on street level.

“The home is being renovated. I assumed the storefront would go, but recently it has been improved with new windows, among other things.

“Does anyone know the plans for that space? It has always interested me. Every time I drive by, I try to imagine what sort of activity used to take to place there.”

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Sacred Heart University’s beautiful new Martire Family Arena is drawing raves. And fans.

Those spectators are helping the Pioneers’ men’s ice hockey program raise funds for great causes.

The January 21 game (7 p.m., vs. Holy Cross) will benefit the Chad Jacobs Hockey Foundation — run by Westporter Karen Jacobs — and the CT Hockey Foundation. The Jacobs fund was a major supporter of education for Charlie and Will Capalbo, grandsons of Westport writer Ina Chadwick. Charlie fought a long, courageous battle against several cancers.

A February 4 game (7 p.m., vs. American International) for CapalboStrong will benefit Dana Farber Cancer Institute, specifically pediatric research. That date is the anniversary of Charlie’s life-saving bone marrow transplant from his brother Will, in 2019.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Charlie Capalbo (Photo/Dave Gunn)

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The bad news: There was plenty of trash at the I-95 Exit 18 commuter parking lot on the Sherwood Island Connector.

The good news: A crew of dedicated Westporters picked it up last weekend.

The bad news: There will always be more garbage in need of collection.

To find out what’s next for our civic-minded citizens — and help — email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Town employees haul away the trash collected at the commuter parking lot. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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“Surface Alchemy” — a new exhibition featuring Donald Martiny and Stuart Disston — opens this Saturday (January 21; reception from 5 to 7 p.m.) at Amy Simon Fine Art (123 Post Road East).

The exhibit runs through February 25.

“The Picnic” — Acrylics, encaustic and photo transfer on canvas mounted on panel (Stuart Disston)

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You can teach an old dog new tricks. Or — in the case of Bobo — a new dog can enjoy old tricks.

Either way, here’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, from (naturally) Compo Beach:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … today is the birthday of David Ruffin.

One of the lead singers of the Temptations from 1964-68, and later a solo star, was born on this date in 1941. He died in 1991, from an accidental overdose of crack cocaine.

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Posted in Arts, Education, Library, Local business, Local politics, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Original Pancakes, Orphenians …

Posted on January 13, 2023 | 3 comments

Tuesday night’s Staples High School boys basketball game was filled with drama.

The Wreckers won a 68-67 overtime nail-biter over New Canaan.

But that wasn’t the half of it.

Halftime included a chance for a young player named Trey got a chance to hit a 3-point shot. The prize: a free session at the new Academy basketball camp.

How did the aptly named Trey do? Click here!
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News 12 Connecticut is working on a story about the 1989 Joan Wertkin cold case murder.

They want to speak with anyone who knew Joan, the family, or has information on the case. Even a small piece of information might help produce a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the killing.

Contact Emmy-winning investigative reporter Shosh Bedrosian: shoshana.bedrosian@news12.com; 475-283-5188.

Joan Wertkin

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The Original Pancake House has — finally — opened in the Main Street space where Acqua used to be.

Nina Sankovitch reports: “The first restaurant I ever went to was one of these.  The German apple pancake is as good as ever!”

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In preparation for their June trip to Hawaii, Staples’ Orphenians are hosting an “Aloha Cabaret.” The January 22 event (6:30 p.m., Westport Library) features Tony Award winner (and Westporter) Kelli O’Hara; the Orphenians (of course),, and as emcee, the incomparable David Pogue.

There are also Hawaiian-themed light bites, and an exciting silent auction. Fundraising will ensure that all 42 members can make the trip.

Orphenians — the elite singing group — have traveled across the US, and internationally, since shortly after their founding in 1958. This will be the third trip for conductor Luke Rosenberg.

Georgia Wrighth traveled with Orphenians to Australia in July 2018.

“It was one of the best experiences, with some of my best friends,” she recalls. “Some others I didn’t know too well. But we became so close on that trip.

“We were making music, and meeting people from all over the world who shared our passion. We sang for 8 hours a day, and learned so much working with a master composer.”

Georgia went on to earn a BFA in musical theater from the Boston Conservatory.

Three years earlier, Jack Baylis joined Orphenians on a trip to San Francisco. They worked with the famed Chanticleer choral group,

“It was one of my first exposures to high-level professionals,” Jack recalls. “They were so intense, but they showed us attainable goals.”

Jack appreciates the opportunities Orphenians had — and have now, again — to experience such a trip.

“Whether you pursue the arts as a career or not, this is a chance to impact your life,” Jack says. “In hindsight, I realize how important that is.”

Jack will perform with Kelli O’Hara at the Aloha Cabaret.

Tickets are $150 per person for general admission and $225 per person for VIP. For tickets and more information, click here.

Staples Orphenians

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Last night, MoCA Westport’s opening reception introduced their winter exhibition. “Paul Camacho: Rhythm and Unity” features selected works primarily drawn from the Westport Public Art Collections. The exhibition is on view through February 26.

Simultaneously, the annual high school exhibition — Who Are You When You Are Dreaming — includes nearly 200 student works from across the region.
Docented gallery tours are available on Thursdays at 1 p.m. An associated Cocktails and Conversation series will be held on Thursday evenings, including a talk about Camacho, a curator talk, and a panel featuring local designers and entrepreneurs on fashion, art and design.
Click here for more information.

MoCA executive director Ruth Mannes and Westport Public Schools pre-K-12 music and visual arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman. (Photo/Leslie MaSala)

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It doesn’t get more “Westport … Naturally” than this: Compo Beach, with Cockenoe Island in the distance.

(Photo/Richard Stein)

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And finally … Happy Friday the 13th!

(It’s good luck to donate to “06880” on Friday the 13th — or any other day. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Media, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Staples AD, Coffee Mugs, De TAPAS …

Posted on January 12, 2023 | 12 comments

Staples High School will soon have a new athletic director.

Vincent J. “VJ” Sarullo succeeds Marty Lisevick on February 1. 

Sarullo has spent the past 17 years as athletic director at Jonathan Law High School in Milford. Before that he was AD at Sheehan High-Wallingford and Notre Dame of Fairfield.

Sarullo currently serves as president of the Connecticut Association of Athletic Directors.

Lisevick retires on January 31, after more than 2 decades in the post. The other finalist for the position, Colin Devine, spent 15 years as Staples’ boys basketball coach.

VJ Sarullo, iin 2014.

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With 3 Starbuckses, 3 Dunkin’ Donuts, and many more places to buy coffee, Westporters use plenty of cups.

We don’t have to.

Sustainable Westport has just launched “Refill Not Landfill.”

The program encourages residents to use reusable cups and mugs at participating coffee shops to reduce waste, combat climate change, and help support small businesses.

Most paper cups used for hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate are coated with plastic to prevent leaks, so they can’t be recycled. Plastic cups used for iced coffee, tea and other drinks, often end up in the trash. It is estimated that only 5% of plastic is ever recycled.

By committing to bring their own reusable mug or cup to participating locations, residents can help reduce waste — and be entered to win monthly prizes.

Beginning this Sunday (January 15), bring a clean, reusable cup or mug to a participating location. (NOTE: They do not wash cups or mugs.)

Order a drink that’s eligible to be filled (some, like smoothies, are not).

At checkout, scan a QR code. Submit your name and email address for each drink you purchased using a reusable cup, to receive credit for your visit.

To be eligible for the monthly raffle, you must participate at least 5 times within a month.

Each month through July 15, Sustainable Westport will draw one winner, for a prize from a local business.

Participating locations include:

To add your business, email emilyabate@gmail.com.

Don’t have a mug?Purchase a Sustainable Westport “Refill Not Landfill” travel mug Thursdays at the Westport Farmers’ Market, or the Earthplace gift shop.

For more information, click here. Questions? Email admin@sustainablewestport.org.

A familiar sight in Westport. But it doesn’t have to be.

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Speaking of restaurants:

DeTAPAS celebrates its 1-year anniversary this weekend with a complimentary glass of Cava.

Carlos Pia’s Spanish gastrobar has become one of Westport’s hottest spots. A native of Barcelona, he’s brought the flavors of his native country here — and the culture and the colors too.

Pia’s Flamenco Nights, Jamon Jamoon Iberico and wine tasting, and other events have added to DeTAPAS’ allure.

Carlos Pia in his vibrantly decorated De Tapas.

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Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — held its January event at the Westport Weston Family YMCA on Saturday.

A huge turnout of enjoyed basketball, line dancing, stretching and yoga, crafts (hosted by MoCA Westport), a photo booth and snacks. Among the volunteers: Staples High School’s Service League of Boys (SLOBs).

The next event will is at the Westport Playhouse (February 2). It’s a Valentine’s dance — details soon.

Fun at Club 203.

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Stressed-out parents, take note: S4 Study Skills is hosting a free webinar.

In “Why Course Selection is Important to the College Application Process” (January 17, 7 p.m.), college admissions counselor and Westport resident Amy Chatterjee explains what course selection reveals about motivation and focus, and how it impacts college admissions. Click here to register.

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Jazz vespers comes to the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston.

The service combines liturgical traditions with the soulful sounds of the John Collinge Quartet.

The worship — for all ages and denominations (and a great introduction to jazz for young audiences) is Sunday, January 22 (4 p.m., United Methodist Church sanctuary).

The United Methodist Church on Weston Road.

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There weren’t many people the other day, at Compo Beach.

But the sun is there, regardless. Naturally.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image was captured by Bob Mitchell.

(Photo/Bob Mitchell)

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And finally … Jeff Beck died yesterday of bacterial meningitis, in England. He was 78.

Though never as flashy or well-known as Eric Clapton or Jimmy Page, he was a member of the Yardbirds and other very important blues-based groups.

Westport has a couple of ties to the legendary guitarist. When the Yardbirds played at Staples High School in 1966, he was part of the band.

A young photographer in New York heard they would be in Westport. She came here, and photographed Beck and a very young Jimmy Page tuning up backstage, in the choral room.

The photographer’s name? Linda Eastman.

Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, in the Staples High School choral room. (Photo/Linda Eastman)

And the offices of Connoisseur Media in Westport — owner of some of the most successful radio stations in the area — contain plenty of music memorabilia.

One of the most prized possessions hangs on the wall by CEO Jeff Warshaw’s desk. It’s a guitar, signed by Beck.

On the wall in Jeff Warshaw’s office: a guitar signed by Jeff Beck. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Click here for a full obituary.

 

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, religion, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Staples Students Are SLOGs

Posted on January 12, 2023 | 3 comments

By now, most Westporters know that Staples students are SLOBs.

The acronym stands for Service League of Boys. It’s the largest club at the high school, and all year long they’re at work. SLOBs clean parks and the Gillespie; staff events like the Rotary Club LobsterFest, and partner with organizations like the Senior Center and Library.

Girls have never been SLOBs.

But now they’re SLOGs.

The Service League of Girls was an idea waiting to happen.

Alex Gordon, Kira Tomoda, Abby Friedman and Emma Morris were lead busy lives. They play sports (swimming, water polo, cross country, track and lacrosse). They are involved in clubs like AWARE, and work after school (Offline clothing store, JL Rocks, Village Bagels).

Independently, two pairs (Abby and Kira, and Alex and Emma) saw a need to for a SLOB-like group for girls. They got together, and slogged through the process of starting a club.

SLOGs leaders (from left): Alex Gordon, Abby Friedman, Emma Morris, Kira Tomada.

Their mission statement notes: “We strive to provide an inclusive environment, and foster a sense of compassion, empathy and social responsibility in those who participate.”

SLOGs debuted with a booth at the school’s club fair this fall. They created an Instagram page, and told friends.

They found plenty of members. Then they needed jobs for them to do.

Staples SLOGs, at this month’s meeting.

There’s no lack of opportunities. In its first few months SLOGS:

  • Ran a winter clothing drive for the Open Doors community closet in Norwalk.
  • Wrapped gifts with the Carver Foundation. The next day, they handed them out.
  • Helped at the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s “Pizza with Santa” event.

Wrapping gifts for the Carver Foundation.

In the works:

  • A fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of America
  • A packaging event with Filling in the Blanks, the Norwalk weekend meals program for students.
  • A spring program at the Senior Center.

There are many ways to describe Staples students. Among the most worthy: SLOGs and SLOBs. (Hat tip: Amy Schafrann)

 (“06880” is proud to highlight the great work of Westport’s youth. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Staples HS, Teenagers, YMCA

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Roundup: Christmas Tree Pick-ups, Dawn Swim, Playground Fun …

Posted on January 2, 2023 | 6 comments

If it’s New Year’s, it’s time to … get rid of the Christmas tree.

It can be disposed of online — well, the registration is done that way, anyway. Scout Troops 39 and 139 will happily pick up yours. Click here for the form. 

You’ll get a confirmation email. Then, this Saturday (January 7 — by 6:30 a.m.), put your tree by your mailbox.

There’s a suggestion donation of $20 per tree. Tape an envelope with cash or check (payable to “Boy Scout Troop 39”) to your front door.

NOTE: All Christmas trees are mulched into wood chips, and donated to the town. So no wreaths or garlands (the wires ruin the machinery).

Boy Scout Troop 39 to the rescue!

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Like many Westporters, you probably spent yesterday’s dawn in bed.

Maybe you were arriving home from a late party, eager to crash (metaphorically, of course).

If you were one guy though, you went for an early morning, greet-the-new-year swim at Compo Beach.

(Photo courtesy of John Karrel)

Fortunately, the weather was nice.

For January 1, anyway.

PS: Let’s see if he can keep this up for the next 364 days.

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The sun was high a few hours later. The temperature climbed to the mid-50s.

And the Compo Beach playground looked (almost) like a mid-summer day.

(Photo/Karen Como)

Can the rest of the year continue on such an upbeat note?

Fingers crossed …

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Also seen at Compo Beach: this message to “rock” (ho ho) 2023.

It’s the handiwork of Ross and Wendy McKeon. And the “rock” part can be taken literally: They’re the parents of 2000 Staples High School graduate Drew McKeon. Among his many talents, he’s the longtime drummer in fellow Westporter Michael Bolton’s band.

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of a utility pole on Hillandale Road. An “06880” reader explained why it’s hard to get broken ones fixed, or obsolete wires or cables removed.

The example shown was hardly the worst. Michael Lonsdale noticed more, on the short stretch of Kings Highway North between Main and Canal Streets.

(Photos/Michael Lonsdale)

It will not be easy to address the issue. Each pole has multiple “owners” — Eversource, Altice and Frontier, for example.

Low hanging wires and excess poles are low priorities. They’re prime candidates for buck-passing.

But the lower the wires droop, and the more old poles tilt and rot, the more dangerous they are.

When they come down in a storm, excess poles and obsolete cables make clean-up that much harder.

Our electric and telecom companies have lots to do. Removing unsightly — even dangerous — wires and poles are not at the top of their lists.

And unlike weeds or brush, this is not something we can take in our own hands.

Thoughts? Click “Comments” below. Please be constructive, not nasty. And be sure to use your full, real name.

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Photographer Lauri Weiser calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo “my holiday friend.”

Check out her friend’s claws!

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … on this day in 1788, Georgia became the 4th state to ratify the Constitution.

The next? Connecticut.

(Wherever you live — Westport, Georgia or anyplace else — you can contribute to “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Local business, Staples HS, technology

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Orphenians Sway To “Aloha Cabaret”

Posted on January 2, 2023 | 5 comments

It’s winter in Westport. Plenty of folks are dreaming of Hawaii.

The Orphenians will actually go there.

Well, not until June. But Staples High School’s elite a cappella choral group is already making plans. And rehearsing.

And raising funds.

The trip to the International Luau of Song Festival, with director Luke Rosenberg and conductor Pearl Shangkuan of Calvin College, will include learning about cultural music, performing, and touring on both Oahu and the Big Island.

All 42 Orphenians are going. They’ve set a goal of $45,000, to cover expenses of those who cannot afford it all.

So think leis and grass skirts, and get ready for an “Aloha Cabaret.” It’s set for January 22, at the Westport Library.

Broadway and Metropolitan Opera star, Tony Award-winning Kelli O’Hara — a Westporter, and Orphenians fan — will perform. Choral alumni like Clay Singer, Georgia Wright and others joins her on stage.

Rosenberg will sing too. For those who know him only from the back, as he wields his baton, that’s a special treat.

The emcee is David Pogue. Among many other talents, the “CBS Sunday Morning” correspondent is a former Broadway arranger and conductor (and father of Orphenians).

A silent auction includes an array of items, from Caribbean stays and jewelry to lessons and coaching. There are Hawaiian-themed light bites too.

Just what we need for a cold — but also very cool — January night.

(VIP tickets are $225 per person; they include 6 p.m. early entry, choice seating, and a meet-and-greet with performers. General admission tickets are $150 per person, for 6:30 p.m. entry. Click here to purchase. To make a donation without purchasing, click here. Questions? Email Staples.Music.Parents.Assn@gmail.com.)

Click below for the Orphenians’ most recent Westport Library event. They performed holiday music, and selections from their fall concert.

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Lyman Logo, Saugatuck Church Card, Joan Walsh Anglund …

Posted on December 21, 2022 | 1 comment

Westport’s drive to raise $250,000 for our new sister city in Lyman, Ukraine now has a logo.

Miggs Burroughs — the native Westporter/graphic artist/creator of lenticular exhibits at the downtown and train station pedestrian tunnels/designer of the Westport town flag/Westport Artists’ Collective co-founder — has once again donated his talents for a great cause.

His design — in Ukraine’s famous blue and yellow colors — shows Lyman nestled under the bridge being built by both Westport and Marigny-le-Louzon, the French town we adopted after World War II, and helped rebuild. They’re joining us now, to aid another devastated place.

Our goal is to raise $250,000 —  by Christmas. That would provide materials to build 150 homes, with a generator for every one, plus a water filtration system for the Donetsk region town. Thanks to our partner on the ground, it can all be delivered within 3 days.

As of last night — 2 days after announcing our drive — we had over $85,000. Just $165,000 left to raise!

To help, click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.) You can also donate directly, via Stripe (click here). 

Ukraine Aid International is a non-profit organization. It was co-founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer. Click here for more information on our sister city, Lyman.

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Tonight, Saugatuck Congregational Church unveils a big gift for the community.

That’s not an exaggeration. It’s a giant video Christmas card.

From 5 to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday), Craig Patton and Mark Mathias — creators of the “card,” and leaders of the church’s audio-visual team — will be on the Great Lawn on the Post Road near Myrtle Avenue, projecting a video greeting on the front of the building. It will be augmented by an audio broadcast on 89.3 FM.

Look for the enormous holiday card on the front of the Saugatuck Church as you drive by. Better yet, stop and share some holiday cheer with Craig and Mark.

If the weather allows, the greeting card will be presented again tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday, also from 5 to 8 p.m.

Happy holidays!

Sneak peek at the Saugatuck Church holiday card.

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Back in the day, Joan Walsh Anglund was a world-popular illustrator.

And a Westport resident.

In the 1960s and ’70s, nearly every child had at least one of her books, prints or dolls. Her characters all bore big heads and eyes, with no mouth.

The other day, Elizabeth DeVoll sent a few images from Anglund’s Christmas books.

For generations of Westporters, they — and their author — evoke fond memories. For younger parents and kids: Seek them out. They’re timeless.

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Last week, students in Alyssa Carroll’s 2nd grade Coleytown Elementary School class made over 50 bagged lunches for Homes with Hope.

They proudly learned what it means to give back to their community. What a great idea for other classes throughout Westport to follow!

Coleytown Elementary School students, with lunches they made for Homes with Hope.

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Terry, Eamon and Seamus Brannigan are part of a band that plays often at Littlel Barn. Their next gig is Friday (December 23), at 8:30 p.m.

They’re great. They play plenty of classic (and other) rock.

They’ve got a typical band name: Hibachi Dinner.

But they go by another name too — one that’s spectacularly clever, given that the 3 brothers are now, or once were, on the Staples wrestling team.

Just call them The Sing-lets.

Hibachi Dinner (aka The Sing-lets) from left: Seamus Brannigan, Maddy Cerito, Terry Brannigan, Eamon Brannigan, Dylan Curran. (Photo/Terry Brannigan)

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On Sunday, Westport Troop 100 held an Eagle Court of Honor at VFW Post 399. They presented Eagle Scout awards, and celebrated the outstanding achievement of 4 Scouts:

  • 2021 Staples High School graduate PJ Shaum, who coordinated a musical instruments drive for Bridgeport Schools’ Music program.
  • Purdue Polytechnic University freshman Maxim Zotkin Williams, who created an outdoor picnic area for St. Mary’s Holy Assumption Church in Stamford.
  • Staples High School senior and fencing team captain Gleb Syomichev, who helped clean and repaint the parking lot at VFW Post 399.
  • Staples High senior and fencing team member Jack Martens, who helped to clean up and paint the kitchen at VFW Post 399.

Troop 100 has a 54-year history in Westport — and, now, 90 Eagle Scouts. Congratulations to all!

Troop 100 Eagle Scouts, clockwise from top left: PJ Shaum, Maxim Zotkin Williams, Jack Martens, Gleb Syomichev,

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Staples High School Class of 2013 graduate Shira Helena Gitlin is directing a new production of “Indecent,” by Massachusetts’ Concord Players.

Shira was involved with another Players group — the Staples ones — on the tech side, in high school. They also sang with the Orphenians. Shira is now building a career as a theater maker, in the Boston area.

Click here for a video about “Indecent.” They talk about its relevance today, beginning at 5:01.

Shira Helena Gitlin

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From sneakers to New Year’s resolutions to a backstage look at the Candlelight Concert, Staples’ December “On the Wreckord” TV broadcast has it all.

Click below to watch the well-produced, clever and wide-ranging high school show:

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There’s plenty of natural beauty — and some nice man-made stuff too — in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

It’s a view from the footbridge over Deadman Brook, on the north side of Winslow Park.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … winter arrives today at 4:48 p.m.

Only 89 days until spring!

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Roundup: Holiday Movies, Holiday Animals …

Posted on December 18, 2022 | 5 comments

Two of the Top 10 most streamed movies last weekend were holiday films.

And both have strong Westport connections.

“Spirited” (Apple TV+) ranked 7th overall for the weekend. The musical comedy retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” starring Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds (also shown in theaters) was written in part by 2003 Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his songwriting partner Benj Pasek (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”). Justin also served as an executive producer.

Right behind “Spirited,” in 8th place, was “Something From Tiffany’s” (Amazon Prime Video). The rom-com is directed by 2002 Staples grad Daryl Wein (and produced by Reese Witherspoon).

Justin and Daryl were good friends at Staples. They were in Orphenians and Staples Players together — and 20 years ago this weekend, shared the stage for the annual Candlelight Concert. (Hat tip: Kerry Long)

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The Greens Farms train station COVID testing site — run since last January by Progressive Diagnostics — closed on Thursday. The move was made to accommodate normal station operations and concessions.

Progressive’s same-day COVID, flu and RSV tests remain available at their Norwalk and Wilton sites. Clients can schedule appointments online, or walk in.

Progressive Diagnostics’ Covid PCR tests detect the presence of viruses even before symptoms begin. Results are delivered the same day. The company also offers  telehealth, connecting patients with professionals who can discuss symptoms and provide orders for flu and/or RSV tests.

PS: As Bob Weingarten notes, free COVID tests are available online from the US government. Click here for details.

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The ever-changing Winslow Park Animal Hospital front lawn has gone whole hog for the holidays.

Their decorations are a welcome treat for anyone — and by that, I mean “everyone” who waits at the Post Road light between the Westport Country Playhouse and Playhouse Square.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Meanwhile, Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is ready for Christmas too.

She enjoys everything about the holiday.

Except the traditional ham dinner.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Speaking of animals … Mary Hoffman writes from the Compo Beach neighborhood:

This morning we woke up to a very clean, meatless deer leg …

 

… and a very large wolf looking at us. It is bigger than a typical German shepherd.  Dog owners beware!”

The wolf, with deer bone in its mouth. (Photo and screenshot/Mary Hoffman)

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Longtime Westporter Dick Rauh is 97 years old.

But you’re never too old to have a Westport Library exhibit.

His botanical paintings are featured in the Sheffer Gallery, from now through February 28. An artist talk and reception, with Rauh and Miggs Burroughs, is set for January 29 (2 p.m.).

“06880” reader Larry Bartimer urges everyone to see the exhibit.

“What an amazing man!” Larry says. “He is the most alert and intelligent 97-year-0ld man I have ever met. He should be celebrated. He kept us captivated at his Library show.”

Dick Rauh (Photo/Larry Bartimer)

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Hundreds of singers, and orchestra and band members, were the stars of this weekend’s Candlelight Concert at Staples High School.

In a supporting — but very important — role: dozens of red and white poinsettias.

The holiday plants enriched an already wonderful show. Lynn Untermeyer Miller captured a small part of the array, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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And finally … Dino Danelli — one of the greatest drummers in rock history — died Thursday in New York. He was 78, and had been in ill health for several years.

Inspired by Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa, he helped make the Rascals one of the first American bands to capitalize on the success of the British Invasion.

The New York Times says Danelli “merged percussive virtuosity with a rock sensibility. Like Ringo Starr of the Beatles, he set the template for the rock drummer archetype: disciplined and precise, but with a flair that drew the crowd’s eye.”

When the Rascals were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, Steven Van Zandt — who played with Danelli — called him  “the greatest rock drummer of all time.” Click here for a full obituary.

(“People everywhere just got to be free.” But “06880” isn’t free to produce. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Candlelight, Sue Pfister, Black Plastic …

Posted on December 17, 2022 | 6 comments

The Staples High School Music Department celebrated the holiday season last night with its 82nd annual Candlelight Concert.

It was stunning.

The choral symphonic and jazz ensembles awed the full auditorium with their voices and musicianship. The program — from the traditional, lovely “Sing We Noel” through the stunning “Nutcracker Suite,” rousing “Jubilate Deo” and clever production number, to the powerful “Home Alone Suite” and rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — was both proof that our town’s young artists are very alive, quite well (and superbly well-trained), and that even in times of uncertainty and division, all can be right in Westport.

Thanks to all who produced and participated in last night’s Candlelight. Two more (sold-out) concerts continue today.

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

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It’s still hard to believe Sue Pfister is retiring.

The beloved Senior Center director has spent 36 years serving Westport with plenty of kindness, tons of care and tremendous competence.

The town gets a chance to say goodbye and share memories on Wednesday, December 28. An open house (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.) is set for her beloved Senior Center.

Can’t make it? Drop in virtually. Just click here; the passcode is “retirement.”

And once again: Thank you, Sue!

Sue Pfister

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Did you know that black plastic can’t be recycled?*

So what can you do?

Bring your washed, clean, black plastic takeout food containers (and matching lids) to the Westport Farmers’ Market the next 2 Thursdays (December 22 and 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane).

Food containers will be used by Fridgeport Outdoor Food Pantry to repackage large trays of donated prepared foods into smaller portions for people facing food insecurity. Many recipients reuse the containers many times over.

The event is co-sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Food Rescue CT

*Why can’t black plastic be recycled? Optical sorting systems used to sort recycling cannot identify it as “plastic.” When black plastic is placed incorrectly with other items it contaminates the overall recycling stream reducing its value. In addition, black plastic has a hazardous level of toxins that increase in the recycling center. So whenever you can: Refuse or reuse black plastic!

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¡Felicidades! to José “Feliz Navidad” Feliciano and his wife Susan.

The longtime Weston residents are the proud grandparents of twin grandsons. Their daughter Melissa and her husband Charles announce the birth of Theodore “Theo” Jose and Beau William Erickson.

They arrived 5 weeks early, weighing 3.13 and 6.02 pounds respectively.

They’re home and thriving, with Theo coming home on his mother’s birthday.

José and Susan say: “The Feliciano and Erickson families are blessed, and thrilled beyond words. So many prayers offered by so many good and loving people … we are incredibly grateful.”

Proud grandparents Jose and Susan Feliciano.

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The bar for our Entitled Parkers feature is extremely high. Usually, someone hogging 2 spaces won’t make the cut. “06880” readers demand something even more egregious: 3 spaces perhaps, or a vehicle completely covering a sidewalk.

But this Very Important Person takes today’s (Trader Joe’s) cake.

He — and you know it’s a guy —

  • Takes not just 2 spots, but they’re both handicap reserved.
  • He doesn’t appear to have a handicap placard.
  • Just look at what he’s driving.

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Speaking of driving: We’re not sure how this car managed to get where it is — the grass near Cabin 1 at Longshore.

But it doesn’t hurt to remind everyone: Be careful out there.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Andrew Colabella — who was driving (carefully) by — reports that the driver was okay.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s guest speaker yesterday was Lexi Shereshewsky.

Founder and Executive Director of the Azraq Education and Community Fund (formerly The Syria Fund) — a non-profit providing education programs and hands-on humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees and other vulnerable families living in Jordan — she’s no stranger to the group. Sunrise Rotary is a longtime supporter.

Lexi Shereshewsky and Rick Jaffe, past president of Westport Sunrise Rotary.

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Thursday was wet and windy.

But on Friday — yesterday morning — our Public Works crew was out early, cleaning Compo Beach.

It’s the kind of thing most people don’t notice, on a December weekday.

But Sunil Hirani did.  Here’s his photo:

(Photo/Sunil HIrani)

Thanks to all the often-unseen workers, who make this town what it is.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows Friday’s nasty weather, as seen at Compo Beach.

The weekend forecast is nicer: partly cloudy skies today, sunny tomorrow. Temperatures will be in the high 30s and low 40s.

It’s a great time to get your shopping done. Or head to the beach.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … we don’t have video of last night’s “Candlelight Concert” (copyright issues prevent its recording and posting).

But here’s a wonderful version of one of its centerpieces, performed by a community choral ensemble in South Carolina:

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Roundup: OKA, Orphenians, Children’s Care …

Posted on December 16, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: OKA, Orphenians, Children’s Care …

Opening today (with just 9 shopping days left before Christmas): OKA.

The British furniture and home accessories retailer moves into the former Banana Republic (and before that, Klein’s) space on Main Street.

They call this their “US flagship.” There are 14 OKAs in the UK, plus 2 in Texas (Dallas and Houston).

A press release hails the store’s “signature mix of classic, eclectic and contemporary furniture and homeware (for) shoppers and designers looking to add character to their homes.”

OKA’s Westport location includes a “series of fully decorated rooms and vignettes featuring a treasure trove of unusual finds and statement pieces. (There are) samples of our custom handmade seating service, Tailored by OKA, an English garden’s worth of faux flowers and plants, and a dedicated team of Home Stylists on hand to give advice and help realize your dream interiors. ”

O-kay!

 

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Meanwhile, opening yesterday: A new 30,000-square foot specialty care center opened, at 191 Post Road West (just west of Nash’s Plaza).

Connecticut Children’s Specialty Care Center features murals of the ocean, forests, sky and stars (with 12 LED constellations). There are self check-in kiosks, exam and procedure rooms, an outpatient infusion center, imaging services, plus speech, occupational and physical therapy, EEG and echocardiogram, and casting rooms.

This is the largest of Connecticut Children’s 6 specialty care centers. More than 20 specialties are represented.

Yesterday’s grand opening included a paper ribbon chain made by area kids, and Santa (and the Grinch) handing out toys.

Santa arrives at the Connecticut Children’s Specialty Center.

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Didn’t score a ticket for this weekend’s Candlelight Concerts? Or just a holiday music junkie who wants to hear more from the fabulous Orphenians?

The highly acclaimed Staples High School a cappella group present their traditional December program for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston — and everyone is invited.

The event is Monday (December 19, 5 p.m.) at the Westport Library Trefz Forum.

Staples’ Orphenians are in high demand this month. In addition to this weekend’s Candlelight Concert, they sang recently at the town holiday tree lighting, for the Rotary Club and at Assumption Church — among many other gigs.

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Looking for a nice holiday meal?

La Plage — the popular and scenic Longshore Inn restaurant — offers 3-course dinners on Christmas Eve (4 to 10 p.m.) and Christmas day (noon to 7 p.m.), plus an early New Year’s Eve dinner (5 to 7 p.m., with a la carte specials); a gala New Year’s Eve dinner (8:30 to 10:30 p.m.; 5-course menu, Champagne toast, and live music by Tangled Vine),

Click here for menus and reservations.

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With approval ratings above 75%, Charlie Baker is the most popular governor in the nation.

The Massachusetts Republican chose not to run again. When his term ends next month, he’s got a new gig: President. (Of the NCAA, that is.)

The tangential connection to “06880” is that Governor Baker’s wife — Lauren Schadt — grew up in Westport. Back then, she was “Laurie.”

She’s no slouch herself. With an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School, she is a marketing communications consultant. She is active in many volunteer efforts, focusing on education. As First Lady of Massachusetts, she worked closely with the Department of Children and Families.

Governor Baker is familiar with his new role. Two of his and Lauren’s 3 children are former college athletes.

Governor Charlie Baker and Lauren Schadt Baker.

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Our “Westport … Naturally” feature usually celebrates the animals, flowers, trees and other scenes of beauty that make our town beautiful.

Today’s image is from Terrain. Sure, it’s a business. But there are enough elements of nature here — and it’s so beautifully photographed by Patricia McMahon — that it fits right in.

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to Trevor Pinnock. The English harpsichordist and conductor — heard often on WSHU’s “Sunday Baroque” — is 76.

 

 

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