Westporters of all ages celebrated the season Friday, at Wakeman Town Farm’s annual holiday tree lighting.
The event included Staples High School’s jazz duo, On the Count of Two; musicians from Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary Schools; Staples band members, and goodies from The Granola Bar and Sweet P Bakery.
The main attraction saw 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and Bill Constantino — a Wakeman family member — keep a generations-old tradition alive.
Many attendees donated diapers, toys and food, for neighbors in need.
And finally … Harry Chapin was born on this date, in 1942. The singer-songwriter/philanthropist and hunger activist died in an automobile accident on the Long Island Expressway. He was 38.
(Harry kept the change. If you’ve got any spare change hanging around, we’re happy to have it too. Just click here, and you’ll support “06880” — your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
Over 2,000 Westporters (and out-of-towners) of all ages (especially kids) filled downtown yesterday afternoon (and evening).
They posed for photos with Santa (and Buddy and his elves) (and in a photo booth), roasted s’mores, petted piglets, caroled with the Orphenians, sent letters to Santa, dropped off toys for the Police drive, got face paint, shopped and enjoyed store giveaways, met neighbors and friends — and did it all in perfect almost-winter weather.
The 5th annual Holiday Stroll was by far the biggest and best yet.
S’mores by Nômade, elves and more. (Photo/John Walker)
Co-sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association and “06880,” it’s our gift to the town. And the town embraced it.
Thanks to all who made it happen — especially the hard-working WDA crew (Maxx Crowley, Beth Meyer, Huong Belpedio, Brian Spurr and others). Thanks to Santa; the fabulous Staples Orphenians, characters and face painters; the retailers and restaurants and non-profits who welcomed all and handed out “stuff” — and everyone who strolled.
Staples Orphenians’ first stop, above Brandy Melville. Other caroling spots: the clock, “Tunnel of Love,” and Bedford Square courtyard. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Westport sure rocked around the Christmas tree.
And the brand-new, but looks-like-its-been-there-forever, Main Street clock.
At the clock: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, “06880” founder Dan Woog. The WDA donated the clock to the town; the WDA and “06880” co-sponsor the Holiday Stroll. (Photo/John Walker)
A classic shot. (Photo/John Walker)
Staples Players Scarlett Shope, Claire Kresser, Ellis Maroney and Seamus Brannigan are all in character. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Riverside Realty’s piglets were favorites. (Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)
Senior Cat Betit conducts the Orphenians. The day before, they sang at Radio City Music Hall. . (Photo/Dan Woog)
Orphenians singing at the clock. (Photo/John Walker)
Listening to the Orphenians. (Photo/John Walker)
(Photo/John Walker)
Annette Norton’s Savvy + Grace mailbox was filled with dozens of letters to Santa. The popular downtown store also sponsored the photo booth. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Growing up in Westport, Sarah Bennett acted in Music Theatre of Connecticut, at Coleytown Middle School and with Staples Players.
She was not always a star. But she loved her roles in ensembles, and the chance to act and direct in Staples’ One-Act Play Festival.
At Staples Sarah Bennett was in “Merrily We Roll Along,” with fellow Player (and future University of Michigan classmate) Justin Paul.
Now — more than 20 years later — the Class of 2004 graduate realizes how meaningful it was to audition (and try out for sports teams) and not make all of them. She had many positive experiences, even when not in the spotlight.
After studying English and film at the University of Michigan, earning a master’s in education at Lehman College and studying leadership, organization and entrepreneurship at Harvard, Sarah has taught middle school in New York City since 2008.
She loves “watching kids transform through the warped reality they go through” during adolescence.
Sarah Bennett
Part of that transformation comes through Harlem Stories. Sarah is the founder and executive director of the non-profit, which empowers 6th through 8th graders to tell stories of their West Harlem neighborhood, through ensemble work they create after conducting interviews with residents.
Their website says, “We’re shy and outgoing. Goofy and serious. Outgoing and reserved.
“Some of us have acting experience prior to THSP. For some of us this is new. For all of us, we are committed to exploring and amplifying our voices through the narratives we tell.”
Sarah says, “It’s been magnificent to watch kids explore their curiosities, revise their interests and paths, and take risks both through improvisation and writing the show itself.”
Sarah Bennett, at work with students.
They also learn the very important skill of public speaking.
“It’s been an honor to witness their middle school journey and development. Regardless of whether these kids pursue arts or theater in high school and beyond, they will carry the confidence and self-assurance that can only come from being part of a cast.”
In 3 years, Harlem Stories has grown to 29 students, now in their own studio.
Harlem Stories kids, at work.
She cites the example of Malakai, an 8th grader who gathered stories in Marcus Garvey Park. After engaging with strangers, and learning their stories, he is sifting through transcripts, creating a character and writing a monologue for the April 16 show.
Sarah is not the only Westporter working with Harlem Stories. Players alum Ginny Levy helps with playwriting, and as a teaching artist.
Sarah and Ginny are proud of all that their young students have accomplished. They appreciate the opportunity to pass along the life lessons they learned in Westport, and through Staples Players.
Just in “time” for the Holiday Stroll, the new Main Street clock has been installed, and wired.
The new attraction in front of the Gap is a gift to the town, from the Westport Downtown Association.
Today’s Holiday Stroll is another gift too, from both the WDA and “06880.”
For the 5th year in a row, everyone is invited downtown. From 4 to 7 p.m. today (Saturday), Main Street and environs is the site for caroling by Staples’ Orphenians, photos with Santa, Buddy the Elf, other characters (and a Riverside Realty piglet), face painting, a “letters to Santa” mailbox (Savvy + Grace), s’mores at Nômade, a collection box for the Police Department’s toy drive, and much more.
Over 60 stores, restaurants, vendors and non-profits will offer giveaways, promotions and more. They include:
American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing Bartaco: Hot chocolate table Bella Bridesmaids:$25 off per dress Bloom Salon: Holiday treats, and discounted hair tinsel Bridgewater Chocolate: Raffle for $50 gift card, with purchase Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything Candle Caboodle: TBD Chait Gallery/Photography Studio: 20% off all artwork, portraits in studio; $200 for 1-hour session, includes 8×10 print Chocolatieree: Blissfully toasted & gooey S’morestick with every purchase (minimum $20) Clarendon Fine Art: Holiday cheer; live music by Warren Bloom Cold Fusion: Free wrapped chocolates Core Burn Pilates: Discounted group class and private sessions (booked on day of Stroll) Courtgirl: 15-30% off storewide Earthplace:10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday) Eleish Van Breems: Raffles; cider in courtyard Everything But Water:Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup Faherty: Refreshments and cool vibes Fred: Gift with purchase Gabriele’s: Buy $500 worth of gift cards; get $100 extra Gioiella Jewlery: Raffles Hummingbird Healing Center: Light bites, wine, raffle Il Pastaficio: Focaccia di recco, Italian hot chocolate, salame di cioccolata; gift card for 10% off purchases of fresh pasta boxes and sauces Jimmy’s: Christmas-themed stocking fillers Joe’s Pizza: Garlic knots Johnny Was: 40% off sale; gift with purchase; free gift wrapping Kerri Rosenthal: 25% off selected items La Source: Enter to win a $500 gift card, with every purchase of $100 or more Lululemon: Hot chocolate from Oggi Gelato; chance to win gift basket and gift card (1 free entry for every $200 spent) Lux Bond & Green: Holiday cheer and treats Massi Co: Hot cider J. McLaughlin: Handbag raffle 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; cookies and Prosecco in the afternoon Naturino Kids Shoes: 25% off single pair Nômade: S’mores Offline by Aerie: 10% off purchase; $25 off $125 if booking an appointment Paper Source: Buy one; get 50% off holiday boxed cards Rhone: Beverages; 15% off first purchase Rowan: Buy 2 non-piercing pairs of earrings; 2nd is 15% off Savvy + Grace:North Pole mailbox for letters to Santa; photo booth Scout & Molly’s: Free gift with $200 purchase Shoe-Inn: Up to 75% off Sorelle Gallery: 20% off original artwork and prints all day; Champagne and holiday treats Southern Tide: $50 off $150 or more Splash of Pink: Gift with purchase over $200 Swarovski: TBD SWTHZ: $10 off 60-minute contrast therapy session, in a private luxury suite Theory: Holiday sip and shop Toy Post: Small gifts for children Vince Westport: 25% off W Hair & Color: Raffle for package of 3 blowouts Walrus Alley: Happy hour, featuring Glüwein West Elm: General promotions West Out East: 15% off all accessories Westport Book Shop: Gift with purchase of children’s picture books Westport Centerpiece: Holiday gifts Westport Country Playhouse: Raffle for prizes; discounts on tickets Zoomin Groomin: 25% off any mobile grooming booked the day of the Stroll.
See you at the Stroll! (Photo/Ryan Allen)
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Speaking of the Orphenians: When you hear them later today at the Holiday Stroll, you’ll know how great they are.
Yesterday, thousands of others found out too.
Staples High School’s elite singing group was at Radio City Music Hall.
And not just to watch. They took the stage as a warmup act for the world-famous Rockettes.
But that’s not all.
Right after a group photo in front of the Rockefeller Center tree, they broke into song.
A crowd quickly gathered. They listened, filmed and celebrated the Orphs’ impromptu performance.
Passersby could not believe what they were hearing.
“They sound incredible!” they said. “Their harmonies are amazing!” “They’re doing this without a conductor!” (Choral director Lauren Pine — who led the group in Radio City — stood proudly off to the side.)
Well done, Orphenians! We’re honored you’ll join us in a few hours downtown.
Staples Orphenians and parents, at Rockefeller Center. Director Lauren Pine is in front, 5th from left.
The temperature was cold. But there were warm feelings yesterday on Post Road East.
The Westport Fire Department welcomed Bridgeport Rescue Mission. They picked up 1,887 winter coats. All were donated by community members. Each was inspected, folded, and prepared with care by firefighters and volunteers.
The WFD thanks everyone who made the mission a success. “When our neighbors need help, Westport shows up,” the department says.
Taking a break from loading nearly 2,000 winter coats. Front row, from left: Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Bridgeport Rescue Mission’s John DaCosta, Human Services director Elaine Daignault, BRM’s Laurie Molner, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Deputy Chief Matthew Cohen, Human Services’ Cynthia Pérez-Hernández. Rear: BRM’s Brian Stern, WFD’s Jennifer Petrosinelli, BRM’s Bennie Davis.
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Westporters already know and love Faith Sargent for her high tea parties, and her Wreathing for the Community (through which donated florals are transformed into wreaths, given away to spread cheer).
She’s got a new project: Faith’s Cottage Kitchen.
Her licensed home-based bakery offers small-batch breads, brownies, marshmallows and seasonal treats.
Faith Sargent (bottom right), and her creations.
Everything is made fresh in Westport. Faith uses simple ingredients — and the same warmth that goes into every gathering and every wreath.
See below for a full list of offerings, and prices. For orders and questions, text or call 603-219-2773.
Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church’s annual Christmas 9 Lessons and Carols service is set for December 14 (5 p.m.).
The CHT Parish Choir of choristers, adults and soloists will be accompanied by organ and cello. From the first notes of “Once in royal David’s city,” sung by a lone chorister, to the soaring descants of “O come, all ye faithful” and “Hark! the herald angels sing,” the spirit of Christmas will be everywhere.
Admission is free; donations are gratefully appreciated. A reception follows the service.
With cold weather here, Westport has activated its “severe cold weather protocol.” It’s in effect through noon Tuesday.
Warming centers open to the public include:
Senior Center (Weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
Westport Library(Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.; weekdays, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.).
Westport Museum for History & Culture(Saturday, Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
Westport Weston Family YMCA (Weekend, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; weekdays, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
Residents experiencing hardships due to the cold — including those without adequate heat — should call Westport Human Services (203-341-1050; weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). For other times, dial 211.
The Westport Astronomical Society is the space. December 16, 8 p.m. is the time.
The event is a free lecture by Yale physics professor Larry Gladney. The topic is “A Survey for the Ages: the Vera Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space & Time.”
The talk will also be livestreamed, on YouTube and via Zoom.
Professor Larry Gadney
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Westport resident Mildred Bunche died peacefully on November 16. She was 92, and was diagnosed with lung cancer 8 years earlier.
The Alabama native taught biology in Chicago and Connecticut. Her husband Oscar was also a teacher.
They married in 1959, and moved to South San Francisco. Oscar worked for United Airline and IBM.
Mildred studied for degrees in social work and counseling, but those ambitions were put on hold with the arrival of her son Steven in June of 1965.
The family moved to Westport in 1972, when Oscar was transferred to White Plains. She headed the Young Parents Program, a group for unwed teen mothers, and Hall Neighborhood House for troubled girls.
After her divorce in 1975 she returned to teaching. She earned several counseling and hypnotherapy degrees during that era.
In her 50’s Mildred became involved with Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, feeling a sense of community and belonging with the clergy and congregation. She spent her last decades working with the church.
Mildred was also president of the Y’s Women, active in the Senior Center, a patron of the Quick Center for the Arts, and an avid bridge player.
Mildred also had a passion for travel. Her obituary says, “the girl from rural Alabama traveled to places her family could only have imagined, gaining wisdom and insight into cultures that enriched her mind and pursuits.
She is survived by her son Steven. A celebration of her life will be held today (Saturday, 10 a.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church).
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New timber at Burying Hill Beach — stretching far into Long Island Sound — highlights today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.
And finally … in honor of today’s “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll (story above):
(“06880” is proud to co-sponsor today’s Holiday Stroll. We’re also glad we can bring Westport together in many ways. And we’re especially grateful to all who support our work. Thank you)
1st Selectman Kevin Christie says: Westport will soon complete its state-mandated property revaluation. Connecticut law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation every 5 years.
Property owners will receive updated assessment notices by mail on or about December 8. They reflect assessed values as of October 1, based on field reviews and sales analysis completed by the Assessor’s Office and Vision Government Solutions. Assessed value is 70% of fair market value.
Residential values have risen sharply since the October 2020 revaluation. Estimates indicate an average increase of about 61% for residential properties, and about 17% for commercial properties. Individual assessments will vary.
A higher assessment does not mean your taxes will rise by the same amount.
A change in your assessment is only part of how property taxes are calculated. When the overall Grand List increases, the mill rate typically decreases (all else being equal). Any change to your tax bill will depend on how your new assessment compares to others in town, and on the Town’s approved budget in spring 2026.
Updated property data and values will be available online once notices are sent.
Property owners who believe information about their property is incorrect, or who would like to discuss their valuation, can request an appointment with Vision later in December.
Appeal applications to the Board of Assessment Appeals will be available after the Grand List is signed. They must be filed by February 20, 2026.
Main Street may soon have a new casual dining space.
159 Main Street — occupied most recently by a deli with that name; before that, Rye Ridge and, most famously for decades, Oscar’s — will be the site of Luya.
Westport Journal reported today that the family spot — with smoothies, along with healthy and diner food — is the third project for Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean and Zoli Kovacs.
They are the owner, general manager and chef of Nômade, across the street from Luya.
The trio are also partners in Anan. The French-Vietnamese restaurant — on the site of the former 190 Main — also hopes for a spring opening.
Long-time Westporters remember 159 Main Street as Oscar’s Deli. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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On Wednesday, Playbill posted a long, intriguing story about the 6 actors who play the lead role every night in “Masquerade,” the innovative, immersive staging of “Phantom of the Opera.”
One of the six — Staples High School graduate Clay Singer — is one of the youngest to play the Phantom ever, anywhere.
His insights into his character — how he prepared for it, how he plays it — are well worth reading.
But the piece is notable for something else: homages by the actors to Kevin Gray. Broadway’s first-ever Asian American Phantom in 1990 has the same roots as Singer. Gray graduated from Staples in 1976. Both Westport Phantoms were Staples Players stars.
Gray died of a heart attack, at just 55 years old, in 2013 — just 4 months before Singer graduated from Staples.
Westport art teachers are superb educators. From elementary through middle and high school they instruct, encourage and inspire students to express themselves creatively and fully.
But those teachers are superb artists themselves.
Now through January 3rd, they’ve got a showcase for their own work.
One River School’s Westport Art Teacher Exhibition provides a special opportunity to see the personal and professional sides — and the wide range of mediums and styles — of Mark Derosa, Cecily Cowburn Anderson, Stephanie Sileo, Angela Simpson, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.
A reception is set for December 18 (5 to 7 p.m., 833 Post Road East). The public — including students — are invited to check out this other perspective on Westport’s art teachers.
Part of the Westport Art Teacher Exhibition, at One River Gallery.
Speaking of art: The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit runs December 17 -21, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. The opening reception (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m.) features food, beverages, and music by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin (Paul Butterfield Blues Band).
All works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.
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We’re just one day away from the Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.
And merchants keep signing up for giveaways and promotions.
The latest is Chocolatieree. The Church Lane shop offers “blissfully toasted and gooey s’moresticks,” with every purchase of at least $20.
That — and 60 other specials — are part of tomorrow’s (Saturday) Stroll. Some are available only during the Stroll itself (4 to 7 p.m.); others run all day. Click here, then scroll down for the full list.
Among the attractions at the 5th annual Holiday Stroll: caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, thanks to Riverside Realty Group (plus the brand-new downtown clock), face painting, a DJ, a “letters to Santa” mailbox, and much more.
The Staples Orphenians are a Holiday Stroll favorite. (Photo/Dan Woog)
See you at the Stroll!
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As the weather gets cold, Earthplace heats up. On tap this month:
Winged Wonders (Sunday, December 7, 1 to 1:30 p.m.; free with admission): Experience birds of prey outside their enclosures, in a bird-on-glove demonstration.
Kids’ Night Out (December 12, 6 to 9 p.m., ages 4-13; $50 members, $60 non-members): A nature-themed evening, including a winter-themed movie, popcorn, and a special treat from Bartaco
Winter Solstice Campfire (December 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; member families $25, non-member families $35): Celebrate the days getting longer with s’mores, a craft project, and a roaring fire.
Also: Drop-off programs — with immersive, nature-based experiences — begin January 6:
Free-Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1 to 3p.m., ages 4-11)
Lil’ Naturalists (Wednesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades K-2)
Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4 to 5 p.m.,. grades 3-6)
Junior Staff (Fridays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12_
Animal Care Crew (Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12).
Speaking of Earthplace: They just received a $162,600, from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund.
The grant will help provide watershed science programs for high school and college students. The total amount of the project $243,900. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)
Staples High School’s November Students of the Month are seniors Jennifer Londono and Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny and Elias Ramos, sophomores Lucy Bughman and Noa Katz, and freshmen Max Landau and Blake Serotta.
Students of the Month are “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students (who make it) the special place it is.” Nominations are made by teachers.
From left: Blake Serotta, Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny, Lucy Bughman, Noa Katz, Elias Ramos.
Westport resident Julie Parillo died in her sleep yesterday. She was 65 years old.
A 1978 graduate of CVA in Norwalk, Julie began her career at Deluxe Check Printers in Norwalk before moving to New Jersey, where she worked for One Call Medical.
Julie loved all creatures, especially her dogs Reba and Brandy. She was a kind and gentle soul who treasured time spent with her family and with her best friend, Teresa Smith.
She is survived by her mother Arlyne, brother Peter (Dana) Parillo, niece Jessica, nephew Dan, close cousin Pamela Mahon, and several other cousins. Her best friend was Teresa Smith. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael Parillo.
A funeral is set for December 9 (10 a.m., Harding Funeral Home). Interment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.
Julie Parillo
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Every full moon draws “06880” photographers.
It’s tough to choose. But this shot by Rick Benson — overlooking Old Mill Beach, at very low tide — works especially well for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Steve Cropper — who the New York Times calls “the prodigious guitarist, songwriter and producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the lean gutbucket soul music made at Memphis’s Stax Records in the 1960s and ’70s,” died Wednesday in Nashville. He was 84.
Casual music fans may not have known his name. But nearly everyone knows his work: the “snarling Fender Telecaster lick” on Booker T & the MGs’ “Green Onions”; the “ringing guitar figure” that opened Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man,” and the “bell-toned guitar work” on Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” (which he co-wrote). He later worked with the Blues Brothers.
In 2015 he was ranked 39th on Rolling Stone‘s list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. In 1996, Mojo had him second — behind only Jimi Hendrix.
The Times notes, “the original MG’s lineup, with both Black and white members (Mr. Cropper was white), helped integrate Stax at a time when the four men would not have been permitted to appear on a public bandstand together in the segregated South.” Click here for the full Times obituary.)
Staples High School graduate Roger Kaufman — a musician and events producer with Old School Music — knew Cropper. Kaufman urged him to donate the guitar he played on “Dock of the Bay” to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
On December 1, 2016 — almost exactly 9 years ago — there was a special ceremony there. In attendance were Booker T. Jones, Sam Moore, Eddie Floyd, and members of the Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes families. Cropper and his band played many of their greatest hits.
Then the guitar went on display — right next to Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” slippers.
Siobhan Jebb is a 2024 Staples High School graduate, and former co-captain of the volleyball team. She attends the College of Charleston, double majoring in political science, and women’s and gender studies.
As a senior, Siobhan wrote about the inequity between the boys and girls locker rooms at Staples. On Wednesday — more than a year later — the Board of Finance voted to spend $30,000 in soft costs, to explore creating 1 or 2 “team rooms” for girls varsity sports.
Siobhan’s piece has been adapted for a “Students Speak” submission.
I am jealous.
As I walk through the Staples girls locker room, I fantasize about a space that I could have used. But reality quickly interrupts that thought.
I see a pile of crutches, rusted and molded ceramic in our “showers,” ripped boxes, caution tape, and worn pieces of paper saying “Do Not Use” stuck to the wall.
The sign is not needed. The showers are too unsanitary, and besides, broken.
A handicap shower in the Staples girls locker room …
Not to mention a wooden table propped on its side, blocking girls from getting into the shower stalls — as if we would want to, in their condition.
I am jealous. I feel angry. Despite playing volleyball at Staples, I haven’t grasped the gaps in athletics here — specifically with the locker rooms — until senior year.
Looking back, I hated going to the girls locker room before and after gym class. The lighting is depressingly dim, and the space feels like an abandoned basement.
… and another view.
Turning the corner into the bathroom I would catch the “shower room” in the corner of my eye, but never paid much attention. It was never discussed.
I never thought of our locker room as “bad,” because I had no idea what the boys had access to, or what girls sports have access to at other schools.
After 4 years in the athletic program, 3 as a varsity player and 1 as co-captain, it wasn’t until my final year that I became aware of the inequity.
It was just weirdly accepted, like everyone was waiting for someone to step up.
Why wasn’t this talked about? Why do we allow girls to wonder why they aren’t worthy of the resources and space the boys have? One could argue I was one of those girls.
Staples boys locker room showers.
The boys have not 1 but 2 locker rooms. One includes clean showers. This doesn’t sit right, as I walk past what’s supposed to be the handicap shower stall in the girls locker room.
I see paper taped on the wall: “SHOWER CLOSED MAINT. DEPT.” The date on the bottom says “12/06.”
2006 burns in my brain. I take a deep breath. But it brings dust and a damp smell, which only angers me more.
The girls showers have been closed for 19 years.
I am jealous. My best friend Liv, in Mamaroneck, New York, got to clean out her cubby at the end of her volleyball season. I didn’t.
I am confused. I saw the customized cubby lockers for the boys at Staples, while girls don’t bother learning their locker combos because our backpacks can’t fit.
Throughout my last high school volleyball season, I became more aware and annoyed that we didn’t have an appropriate space to go as a team. A space we could talk together, a setting away from the coach, the court, the opposing team and the scoreboard.
I talked about it with Liv. I asked if having a nice locker room was something I should be upset about missing out on. She told me she couldn’t imagine not having a proper locker room.
She spoke about how the varsity locker room became a safe, sacred space before and after home games. It was comforting to have a room away from the coach, so the captains could talk to the team or teammates individually.
Last month, Liv showed me Mamaroneck High’s girls locker room and varsity locker room. I was in awe.
Mamaroneck High School girls varsity locker room.
They get clean working showers. They make name tags for their cubbies. They take their sneakers and knee pads off together. They get designated spots for their bags, and coat hangers for their windbreakers.
They get a television for film sessions. They get a mini-fridge for drinks and snacks. They get a whiteboard to plan plays and drills.
My varsity team and I should’ve gotten all those things too. The boys at Staples get all those things, and more.
I thought about how messed up the situation is here, and how nobody ever talks about it. But many people joke about it.
Much of the time, the person making the joke was a female athlete herself. I myself have made jokes and sarcastic comments about our laughable locker room, as Staples hangs a banner of our “US News & World Report” highest ranking above one of the main entrances.
Staples football and boys lacrosse locker room. In the winter, it becomes the wrestling practice room. (All photos/Siobhan Jebb)
Nothing changes if nothing changes. I changed my anger and jealousy into motivation and fuel.
I want to make a difference, since it looked like no one else will. If I can help create a new, appropriate and equal locker room for female athletes at Staples High School, I will feel accomplished.
I don’t want my beloved underclass teammates I have grown to know and adore to feel like they don’t matter, or aren’t worth the same facilities and spaces the boys are. I just hope my story has a happy ending.
(To submit a “Student Speaks” — or for questions about this feature — email 06880blog@gmail.com. We will work with students to help craft their story. Anonymity, if requested, is assured.)
Thousands of Westporters thrilled to last month’s Staples Players production of “Les Misérables.”
And they did it in an auditorium that is essentially unchanged from the time current director David Roth was a student in Players.
He graduated in 1984.
Several Players officers spoke eloquently at last night’s Board of Finance meeting about the need for renovations. (Last year’s production of “Elf” was almost canceled, after a problem with rigging.) Griffin Delmhorst — Jean Valjean in “Les Mis” — delivered Roth’s comments, as the director could not attend.
With a large number of Players and parents in attendance, the BOF voted to spend $3,037,790 on rigging, lighting and sound improvements. The renovations will make the sound ADA-compliant too, with headsets for audience members who request them.
The most recent renovation to the Staples auditorium was over 30 years ago.
The Finance Board also heard a request to create 1 or 2 “team rooms,” in a section of the existing girls locker room. Coaches and athletes made strong comments about the need for those rooms — and for upgrading the girls locker room used for physical education classes too.
Board members expressed mixed views about the current disparities between boys and girls locker rooms. There is currently also a separate team room for the boys football and lacrosse squads, but none for girls sports.
In addition, the boys locker rooms were upgraded over 2 decades ago. The girls facilities were not.
The girls locker room at Staples …
Members Danielle Dobin and Jeff Hammer voiced strong comments about the differences.
A motion in favor of spending $30,000 — for design costs for team rooms only — passed.
… and the boys showers. (Photos/Siobhan Jebb)
The Board of Finance also approved several other expenses:
$25,000 for wireless access points on the Staples athletic fields.
$25,000 in soft costs to explore a concession stand with bathrooms at Staples’ Paul Lane Field.
$32,000 in soft costs to consider upgrading science laboratories at Bedford Middle School.
$70,000 in soft costs for roof replacement at Greens Farms Elementary School.
$181,500 in hard costs to replace a motorized partition in the Saugatuck Elementary School gymnasium.
$172,970 for painting exterior facades of Westport schools.
$220,000 in soft costs to explore upgrading the Longshore water supply system.
$440,000 for the analysis, design, permitting and preparation of sidewalks on Easton Road, near Coleytown Elementary and Middle Schools. The state of Connecticut will pay the full cost of construction.
The Board of Finance did not vote on a request of $124,000 to replace the Levitt Pavilion stage. There was debate over who is responsible for covering that cost.
Earlier in the Finance meeting, Dobin and Liz Heyer were elected chair and vice chair. The votes were unanimous.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie led the ceremony yesterday, accompanied by the Staples Orphenians, town poet laureate Donna Disch, and a small group of children who counted down the numbers.
The tree is in front of Town Hall, on Myrtle Avenue.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie leads the countdown …
… and poses with the Orphenians …
… ta da! (All photos/Dan Woog)
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The 85th annual Candlelight Concert is the Staples Music Department’s gift to the town. This year’s shows are Friday, December 12 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 13 (3 and 8 p.m.).
The always-hot tickets went on sale this morning at 9 a.m (www.StaplesMusic.org). They’re free — but donations to the Staples music program are greatly appreciated.
There are other ways to support our young musicians too. The poinsettias that decorate the stage can be ordered here, then picked up at the end of the final show.
Also available, at all performances: “Candlelight Cookies” from Alina’s. They’re just $6 — and each includes a coupon for a free cupcake. Click here to order.
Finally: Staples’ Tri-M Music Honor Society again sponsors “CanDelight” — a canned food donation drive benefiting the Homes for Hope food pantry. Collection bins will be in the lobby before every concert.
Poinsettias set the stage for Candlelight. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Nearly every seat was filled last night, for the Westport Country Playhouse’s final Script in Hand reading of 2025.
“What The Constitution Means to Me” by Heidi Schreck was one of the most timely in the long-running and popular series.
The star, Nina Hellman, grew up in Westport and was a member of Staples Players. She now lives in Brooklyn with her husband Jeremy Shamos, who was also in the show.
Every audience member received a copy of the US Constitution. (Hat tips: Susan Garment and Dave Matlow)
The “Constitution” crew, Standing (from left) Liz Beatty (stage manager), Jocelyn Shek, Nina Hellman, Mark Shanahan (Playhouse artistic director), Amanda Charlton (director). Seated: Jeremy Shamos. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
New Yacht City’s tribute to music of the 1970s and ’80s — Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald and more — rocks the VFW this Saturday.
Doors open at 6 p.m. The band comes on at 8. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here to purchase.
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The Westport Farmers’ Market winter location — Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center — is warm and cozy.
It’s the perfect place for “Operation Warm Hug.” This Thursday and Saturday (December 4 and 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), they’re collecting new and gently used coats, hats, mittens and gloves, for nOURish clients in Bridgeport.
All donations are “warmly” welcomed.
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Meanwhile, not far from the VFW, Railroad Place was closed temporarily yesterday morning.
A truck on the 1-way section of Franklin Street took down a utility pole, which landed on a car. There were no injuries.
Acoustic band On the Trail brings their bluegrass/contemporary pop/traditional blend of music to Voices Cafe this Saturday (December 6, 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
Tickets for the “toe-tapping” show are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
A Holiday Pop-Up Shop is set for December 10 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Residence at Westport, 1141 Post Road East).
It features pottery, jewelry and other gifts, all from local artisans.
The Residence at Westport.
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Guitarist Paul Bollenback and pianist Dave Kikoski highlight this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, December 4; 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Post 399).
They’re joined by bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonisthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1DCWLJ4m8U Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Former Staples High School basketball player Geoffrey Lavaty died November 3, at his Wilton home. He was 86.
The Bronx native grew up in Westport, and graduated with the Class of 1957.
After Rollins College he served for 2 years in the Army, then moved to New York. He sold radio time, then partnered with his father. Their firm — Frank and Jeff Lavaty Associates — represented commercial artists and illustrators, many of them from this area.
Jeff and Ebba Von Koch were married in 1968. They lived in New York and Wilton.
Jeff was an oil painter, displaying his work in local galleries and public buildings. He was also a skilled pool player, an avid freshwater fisherman, a fan of the New York Giants, Knicks, Fats Domino, Pavarotti and Cabernet Sauvignon.
He is survived by his wife; sisters Judy Strauss (Jeffrey) and Jane Cooke (Donald), and cousins, nieces and nephews. Services will be private.
Generations of Candlelight Concert-goers have thrilled to the Staples High School Music Department’s annual gift to the town.
Hundreds of choral, orchestra and band musicians create magic. Beautiful works, world pieces, the rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” with dozens of alumni joining on stage — and of course, the traditional “Sing We Noel” processional that begins it all.
That welcoming number is a Staples special. The orchestra begins, slowly and hauntingly. Blue-robed choir members, holding (electric) candles, walk in step down the aisles.
The “Sing We Noel” processional, 2022. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
There is a big downbeat. The singers pivot, facing the audience. Together, they begin: “Dost thou remember the Prophet of old/Who that most wond’rous story told…”
It’s a stirring moment no one who has ever sung, played or heard it will ever forget.
“Sing We Noel” seems stuck in time. The Staples auditorium is one of the few places in the world where it is still performed. The hymn is almost impossible to find on YouTube (a different, jaunty song by the same name pops up a bit more often).
The sheet music went out of print decades ago.
Copies have been Xeroxed many times. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The processional seems — to me, and probably most audience members — a timeless way to begin the Candlelight Concert
But the Staples music instructors have been dissatisfied with their time-honored version. They thought the near-perfect selection could be made even better.
The music they’ve used for years was difficult to conduct. Trumpets and violins jumped octaves. There are many more winds on stage now than before. The band is bigger. There was no direction for saxophones. Vocal parts were in a different meter.
It was time to tweak the arrangement.
The music department partnered with Mark Ceppetelli, a colleague of band director Kevin Mazzarella. He’s an accomplished engraver (someone who prepares sheet music, meticulously formatting it for clarity and readability).
“We wanted to reimagine the piece for winds, and incorporate the singers in a ‘bettter’ way,” says townwide music coordinator Steve Zimmerman. The goal was to “embellish something that’s already excellent.”
This year’s “Sing We Noel” will scarcely sound different to most of the audience. They might not even realize there is an oboe solo, that new percussion parts have been added, or that the brass is brassier.
This year’s brass will be brassier. (Photo/Kerry Long)
“We believe in tradition. And Westport does too. This is a way to make a little more sense musically,” orchestra director Jeri Brima says.
“This maintains the spirit of ‘Sing We Noel’ — in a more inclusive way. The melody is the same. But the sound is fuller.”
Discerning ears will notice the difference. I probably won’t.
Every year, much of Candlelight remains the same.
And every year it evolves.
Now let hosannas ring …!
(For the fascinating back story of how legendary music director John Ohanian brought “Sing We Noel” to Westport, click here. In 2019, Staples graduate Catherine Webster recalled the impact of “Sing We Noel.” Click here to read her words.)
(The 85th annual Candlelight Concert takes place Friday, December 12 at 8 p.m., and Saturday, December 13 at 3 and 8 p.m. Tickets are available to the public starting at 9 a.m. today — Tuesday — at www.StaplesMusic.org. They’re free, but donations to the Staples music program are greatly appreciated.)
(Concert-goers can support the Staples music program by purchasing poinsettias that decorate the stage. They can be picked up at the conclusion of the December 13 8 p.m. show. Click here for details.)
(Also available, at all shows: Candlelight Cookies from Alina’s. They’re just $6, and each includes a coupon for a free cupcake. Click here to order. )
Jon Gailmor — a 1966 Staples High graduate, one of the most legendary of all the school’s musical talents, and an official Vermont “state treasure” — died peacefully last night, at his son’s New Orleans home. He was diagnosed with leukemia 18 months ago.
Jon’s family sang and played music at his bedside — including the playful, upbeat “Gonna Die With a Smile If It Kills Me,” which Jon wrote 50 years ago.
Jon Gailmor
At Staples Jon sang in Orphenians, directed by George Weigle. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, Jon and fellow Orphenian Rob Carlson formed a folk duo.
Their debut album — “Peaceable Kingdom” — remains a timeless classic for all who heard it.
But Polydor Records did not market it — or them — well. Disillusioned, the singers went their separate ways.
Jon spent time in Europe. In 1977 he moved to Vermont, and became an icon there for nearly 50 years. He was a concert performer, singer-songwriter, musical album creator, kids’ radio show host, and songwriting workshop leader for children and adults.
Jon Gailmor (left) accompanies a group of Vermont schoolchildren. His workshops taught them how to write songs — and perform them.
He recorded 6 albums, won numerous awards, was named a “state treasure” by the governor, and was Vermont’s representative to perform during the 25th Anniversary Celebration at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Jon received the Mayor’s Peace Prize in Burlington, and a Silver Citation from the Vermont Arts Council. In 1996 he carried the Olympic Torch through Brattleboro, on its way to Atlanta.
Jon was also a longtime moderator of the annual meeting in his town of Elmore. When the AP explored the role of town meetings in polarized times, they focused on Elmore — and Jon. Click here to read that story.
Jon Gailmor, at the Elmore Town Hall. (Photo courtesy of AP/David Goldman)
His ties to his adopted state were strong. He expressed his deep love for Vermont in his song “Long Ago Lady.”
Jon and Rob played together again 15 years ago, at the Staples Class of ’66 reunion. For all who were there, it was a magical moment.
Jon Gailmor (left) and Rob Carlson in 2018, at the Weston Grange. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Jon performed several times this past decade in Westport, most recently to a sold-out “First Folk Sunday” crowd at the Boathouse restaurant.
Last year, after Jon moved to New Orleans — where his son Aaron lives — for leukemia treatment, he continued giving back.
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