Category Archives: Staples HS

Roundup: Street Sweeping, Trees Falling, Album Releasing …

Posted on April 20, 2022 | 4 comments

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1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker has invited Westporters to meet — by RTM district — at Town Hall. She and other town officials listening to their concerns.

And responding.

Dave Lowrie writes:

“Many thanks to officials and the Westport Police Department for the ongoing traffic and safety meetings by district over the last few months. And thanks also to our District 7 neighbors who voiced their concerns in person and via email.

“As a green pedestrian, my issue centered on walking and biking access along North Bulkley Avenue toward the Post Road. Two days after the meeting, through Monday, Public Works road chief Joe Izzo and his crew of 2 sweepers cleaned the shoulders along North Bulkley, and all side roads.

Kudos to 1st Selectwoman Tooker for moderating the Town Hall session, powerhouse RTM member Brandi Briggs and her counterparts for engaging constituents, town engineer Keith Wilberg and his staff. and concerned members of the Westport PD.”

North Bulkley Avenue, looking toward Old Road. (Photo/Dave Lowrie)

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Amy Ancel has been watching the osprey nest at Terrain. She writes:

“Sadly, it’s been empty for some time. The male returned in March. In early April I last saw him on the platform, loudly and plaintively calling his heart out to his mate. I don’t think she ever returned.

“It was heartbreaking to hear. I’m just a curious and casual observer, but I think we’ve lost our dear and favorite breeding couple for good. It’s so sad. Nature is brutal.”

Have any “06880” readers spotted the osprey recently? If so, click “Comments” below.

Ospreys, in early April. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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It was not exactly the Welcome Wagon.

Last week, a family moved in to a newly built Gorham Avenue home.

In Monday night’s rain and windstorm, a tree fell on their property.

There was a bit of damage to their porch, and lovely copper roof.

All we can tell them is: It’s not always like this!

Cleaning up on Gorham Avenue (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Tickets to see multimedia superstar Shonda Rhimes in person at the Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser have sold out.

But Westporters — and anyone else — can still join the June 1 (8 p.m.) celebration, via livestream. Tickets are $25; click here to purchase.

No recording will be made of the program.

Shonda Rhimes

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Gabriele’s has added lunch and brunch to its dinner menu.

The Italian steakhouse that replaced Positano next to the Westport Country Playhouse is now open Tuesday through Friday noon to 2:30 p.m., and weekends 11:30 am to 2:30 p.m.

Dig in!

Gabriele’s Steakhouse.

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Among other highlights, Westport Library’s VersoFest featured the debut of the first independent record label of any public library in the country.

There’s a limited pressing of the yellow vinyl and digital album, featuring some of the best emerging and eclectic talent in the tri-state region.

All preorders of “Verso Records: Volume 1” come with digital downloads of Daniprobably’s “Cowboy” (indie pop), Alexandra Burnet & the Stable Six’s “You’re Okay” (ethereal singer/songwriter); Ports of Spain’s “All You Can Carry” (indie rock), and The Zambonis’ “Gretzky Twist” (hockey rock).

Click here for details.

The album cover, designed by Tammy Winser.

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The pandemic pushed Staples High School’s Class Of 1970 50th reunion back 2 years. They’re on for this year, on August 26-28  — and they’re turning it into a joint celebration of their 70th birthdays.

The high point — as always for their class — is a Saturday Night dinner-dance at Norwalk Inn, with live music from the class band Smoke.

Reservations must be made online (click here). The deadline is July 20. For more information, call Mark Smollin: 626-584-3997.

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Our “Westport … Naturally” feature is big on nature — flowers, trees, animals. We seldom include human beings.

But Rowene Weems captured this intriguing photo Monday, near Winslow Park. Tree trimming is important work.

A few hours later, wind and rain caused power outages for over 1,100 Westporters.

Hopefully, none in this area.

(Photo/Rowene Weems Photography)

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And finally … because today is 4/20:

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local politics, Restaurants, Staples HS, Weather

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Roundup: Local To Market, Y’s Men, Elaine’s …

Posted on April 17, 2022 | 2 comments

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Local To Market — the food/coffee/gift/gift basket/and more shop that opened a few months ago in the former Talbots/Remarkable Book Shop prime space at the Main Street entrance to Parker Harding Plaza — is closing soon.

Whether it’s temporary or permanent is uncertain. And, in a way, up all of us.

Owner Chris Marcocci must move out by April 30, because the building was sold.

He has not yet found a new location. “We may have to hit pause,” he says, “but hopefully not for too long.

“Bringing Local To Market to Main Street was an amazing experience. My wife Rita, general manager Jon Clement and I are grateful for the wonderful community support, especially our loyal customers and amazing Connecticut suppliers.

“Bringing in the Art Collective of Westport for our art gallery, featuring local musicians and giving back to local charities made this very worthwhile.

“We wish to remain in Westport, and hope to be open again soon with an even wider assortment of products and services. We are looking for our next location, and possible partners to add a café and more.”

If you’ve got a lead, contact him directly: chris@localtomarket.com.

The Local to Market patio.

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Almost two dozen Y’s Men spent yesterday serving the community.

Joined by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, they gathered with bags, gloves, coffee, donuts and homemade matzoh bark at the Baldwin Parking Lot. They spent hours gathering trash — cans, paper, cigarette butts, even a tent from — from the periphery.

Dewey Loselle, head of the group’s Community Service, organized the event.

Y’s Men of Westport/Weston includes almost 400 retired men. They meet weekly from Labor Day to Memorial Day, sharing coffee and donuts and hearing speakers.

Activities range from bridge. boating, golf, tennis, hiking and walking to a global issues discussion group, dining and field trips.

Meetings are Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. at the Saugatuck Congregational Church. Click here for more information, or email

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (6th from right) and Y’s Men at the Baldwin Parking Lot.

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The New York Times describes a new musical in the works. “Everyone Comes to Elaine’s” is based on the Upper East Side spot that for decades attracted celebrities from Frank Sinatra, Woody Allen and Truman Capote to Joe DiMaggio and Keith Richards.

The creators optioned the rights to the 2004 book “Everyone Comes to Elaine’s.” It was written by A.E. Hotchner, a Westport resident and Elaine’s regular. He died in 2020, at 102.

They added Hotchner’s son Timothy, who grew up here, as a creative and business partner. Click here for the full Times story. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

A. E. Hotchner, in Westport. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

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Congratulations to April’s Staples High School Students of the Month: seniors Emma Londoner and Rachel Greenberg, juniors Carine Rosado and Ian Patton, sophomores Sacha Maidique and Nicholas De Munck, and freshmen Brady Dennett and Shelby Weisman.

Principal Stafford Thomas said they were chosen for helping make their school “a welcoming place for peers and teachers. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students who keep the high school together, making it the special place it is.”

From left: Shelby Weisman, Ian Patton, Sacha Maidique, Carina Rosado, Brady Dennett, Rachel Greenberg, Emma Londoner. Missing: Nicholas de Munck.

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The Westport Police Department will be out in “force” next Saturday (April 23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Stop & Shop), collecting food for the Gillespie Center and Westport Human Services food pantry.

The event is co-sponsored with the Westport Rotary Club, and Westport Woman’s Club. They ask for non-perishable items only — and no glass!

Items needed for Saturday’s food drive.

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a video with what I was told were the sons of Plácido Domingo, Andrea Bocelli and Luciano Pavarotti’s.

Nope. The trio are called Il Novo, and though they are extremely talented, they have nothing to do with those three stars. One more reason to remember that, as Abraham Lincoln once said, “you can’t believe everything you see on the internet.”

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There’s always something happening at the Senior Center. Including — this time of year — magnificent spring colors.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image was captured beautifully by Molly Alger.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … until yesterday, I’d never heard of Art Rupe.

But without him, chances are I’d also never have heard of the music I love.

The founder of Specialty Records, he brought rhythm and blues — formerly “race music” — into the white mainstream. He jump-started the careers of singers like Little Richard and Lloyd Price. Hearing those artists influenced groups like the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Animals.

Art Rupe died on Friday at his home in Santa Barbara. He was 104. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Michael Taylor)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Local politics, Media, Police, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Hail To The Valedictorians

Posted on April 17, 2022 | 2 comments

There’s never been a 2-way tie for Staples High School valedictorian.

There still isn’t. But this year, there will be 3 valedictorians.

Natalie Bandura, Zach Bishop and Julian Weng all have the same 4-year grade point average — down to hundredths of a decimal point.

All 3 will speak at graduation on June 16.

Though they finished in a deadlock, the tri-valedictorians have very different scholastic careers and interests.

For the first time in history, Staples High School will have three valedictorians: Natalie Bandura, Zach Bishop and Julian Weng.

Though all three are high achievers in the classroom, each charted their own way through Staples. They have a variety of passions, and each contributed in different ways to a host of extracurricular activities.

Natalie Bandura made news last fall, as one of the first 2 high school students ever appointed to the Connecticut Board of Education. She also served as editor-in-chief of Inklings (which this year earned its first-ever Columbia Scholastic Press Association gold crown), and captain of the math team (4thplace in the state competition).

Each of those activities provided Natalie with a different sense of community. Each allowed her to apply what she’s learned in class to real-life situations. She has appreciated the opportunity to write creatively, and apply logical thinking to solve math problems. Joining the state Board of Education gave her confidence to speak publicly, and use her voice to rally others around common goals.

Natalie Bandura

Natalie was surprised to learn she is a valedictorian. “I was always focused on pursuing my interests, not grades,” she says. “I don’t think any of the three of us set up our schedules to maximize our grades.”

Her favorite classes included Advanced Placement Chemistry with Dominick Messina (“a great teacher who allowed us to be ourselves, and talk about content in a fun way”); Journalism (“of course”) with Mary Elizabeth Fulco and Joseph Del Gobbo, and Calculus BC with Jonathan Watnick (“a real challenge”). AP Literature with Brian Tippy, and Freshman English with Heather Colletti-Houde, helped her grow as a writer.

She advises incoming students to “explore everything that interests you. Don’t think that something will be too much, or impossible. Don’t be afraid to try to figure out who you are, or what you want to pursue. Join a ton of activities. Don’t go by what other people say you should take or do.”

Natalie will attend Harvard University. She looks forward to exploring her passions for government, journalism, math and research. She hopes to join the Crimson newspaper, and attend law school after graduation. But she is unsure of a major, and has an open mind about how to tie her many interests together.

Valedictorian Zach Bishop is well known as a musician. A violist, violinist and composer, he plays with the orchestra, and chamber and pit ensembles, along with All-State, Norwalk Youth Symphony and the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestra.

While playing classical music helps him feel connected to musicians from centuries ago, composing is a different creative outlet. He describes his compositions as ranging from neo-Baroque and Romantic, to experimental. His favorite composers include Mendelssohn and Sibelius, but he studies lesser-known composers to broaden his understanding of both music and culture.

Zach Bishop

Academically, Zach loved Suzanne Kammerman’s Advanced Placement United States Government “We the People” class. Students research, analyze, synthesize and present key constitutional issues, as part of a national competition. “We debate really important questions, and it’s very practical,” he says. Fellow valedictorians Natalie Bandura and Julian Weng are in the same class.

Zach also enjoyed Calculus BC with Jonathan Watnick (“he finds multiple ways to answer questions, and helped me understand math”), and Music Theory with Philip Giampietro. As part of the Coleytown Elementary and Middle School Workshop program for gifted students, Zach appreciated the opportunity to do group work, and make creative presentations.

Being valedictorian is “a cool honor,” Zach says. “But I really valued all my classes. And it’s really cool to share it with others.”

His graduation speech may include some of his personal philosophy on how to make life rewarding. In his free time he reads philosophers like Plato, Camus and Kierkegaard. “They help me question things,” he notes.

Like Natalie, he tells incoming Staples students, “if you think you can manage taking rigorous classes, don’t let people talk you out of it. But if you know yourself and they’re not right for you, don’t get pushed into them.”

This spring, Zach will do a senior internship at the Museum of Mathematics in New York City. In the fall he’ll attend Williams College, where he looks forward to small classes, the possibility of a double major in music and math, the chance to hike, and auditioning for the Berkshire Symphony Orchestra.

The third valedictorian, Julian Weng, is used to sharing honors. He was co-president of the Debate Club (in a tied vote). He also founded Code for a Cause, a group that provides resources and support for virtual hackathons. His team won one of those events, for their work mapping economic data to optimize college selections for undergraduates. In his spare time, Julian plays tennis.

Like Natalie and Zach, he cites Suzanne Kammerman’s Advanced Placement United States Government “We the People” as a favorite course. “We did in-depth research on constitutional topics, and defended it against experts who spend their entire lives studying this,” he says. “It had a real impact on how I approach team-based work, and how I speak. It was a very different experience than other social studies classes.”

Julian Weng

A self-described “big STEM person,” Julian especially enjoyed Applied Algorithmic Design with Dr. Nick Morgan; Statistics and Discrete Mathematics with John Wetzel; Building Web Applications with David Scrofani, and Advanced Placement Chemistry with Will Jones.

In his Independent Learning Experience with Mr. Scrofani, Julian created a chatbot. It helps students review class concepts by generating customized practice questions, then tracking their progress. It was inspired by his work as an instructor for an after-school STEM program and math tutor with Mu Alpha Theta, the national mathematics honor society.

Julian’s route to the Class of 2022’s top spot included “taking every class I could that sounded interesting.” Like his co-valedictorians, he did not plan his schedule with the goal of finishing with the highest GPA.

Julian notes, “A lot of people say Staples is a very competitive place. It is. But there are lots of supportive people. Try to surround yourself with people you can talk to at lunch about more than your chemistry grade. I found lots of real support.”

Julian will study management and technology at the University of Pennsylvania. He plans to pursue a dual degree, through the Wharton School and the School of Engineering and Applied Science.

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Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Earth Day, Queer Cook-Off …

Posted on April 15, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Earth Day, Queer Cook-Off …

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Get ready to “waste” a whole day on April 23.

That’s Westport’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Day (Greens Farms railroad station, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

Sponsored by the Department of Public Works, it’s a free program for residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.

Among the items accepted: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled
  • Do not mix chemicals.  Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
  • Keep products in original labeled container.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home.
  • Keep your windows open and drive directly to the collection site.

REMINDER: Westport residents can recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

Questions? Call 203-341-1793.

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Don’t believe everything you read here.

Of course Earth Day is not today (as I mistakenly said yesterday). Which means all the events sponsored by Friends of Sherwood Island will not take place tomorrow.

The correct date for the Sherwood Island activities is Saturday, April 23. They include:

Friends’ Garden Team Activities (9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Friends’ table on East Beach across from the Nature Center).

🌱Bring a reusable water bottle; get a “Protect Our Wildlife” sticker (while supplies last).

🌱Tour the Dunes Restoration project site; plant a stem of American Beach Grass.

🌱Learn about native plant species planted for wildlife at the park; get a list for planting at home.

  • “Why Reducing Food Waste is Critical to a Sustainable Future” (9:30 to 11 a.m.).
  • “Walk Through Sherwood Island’s History (From 12,000 Years Ago)” (noon to 1:30 p.m.).
  • “Salt Marshes and Marsh Migration at Sherwood Island” (12:30 to 2 p.m.)
  • “Environmental Role of Trees at the Park”(2 to 3:30 p.m.)

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Aspetuck Land Trust celebrates Earth Day too (naturally).

Next Friday (April 22, noon) there’s a virtual “Lunch & Learn” webinar called “2/3 For the Birds.” That’s because birds need 70% (approximately 2/3) native plants to maintain healthy population levels. Click here to register.

The next day (Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m. to noon, Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve), there’s a vernal pool hike with wetland scientist Edward Pawlak. Space is limited; click here.

On Sunday, April 24 (10:30 a.m. to noon, Trout Brook Valley orchard and blueberry patch), the Spring Hawk Walk returns. Raptor specialist Larry Fischer hopes to catch one or more hawks to present to the group, while discussing fascinating details about those extraordinary creatures. Space is limited; click here.

Birds need native plants to thrive.

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LGBTQ Pride Month is June.

Westport Pride gets a jump on the festivities May 19 (6 p.m.). Three teams of “chef-testants” (a local chef, plus members of the local LGBTQ community and allies) has 30 minutes to whip up an appetizer and entrée — using items in a mystery box — for 5 judges in a “Queer Cook-Off.” It all takes place in Aitoro Appliance’s Norwalk kitchens.

Celebrity chefs include Bill Taibe (owner/chef of Don Memo, Kawa Ni, The Whelk), Jes Bengtson (executive chef of Terrain Café and Amis Trattoria), and Arik Bensimon (executive chef of the Monogram Design Center).

Judges include Brian McGunagle (founder, Westport Pride), Tony Aitoro (CEO, Aitoro Appliance), Matt Storch (chef/owner of Match and Match Burger Lobster), Stephanie Webster (founder/editor-in chief, CTBites) and yours truly (Dan Woog, executive editor of “06880”).

Guests can observe the competition while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and beverages. It’s a fundraiser for Westport Pride — and a great way for the LGBTQ community and allies to get together, get ready for Pride (and eat well). Click here for tickets.

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Meanwhile, there’s always something cooking at Wakeman Town Farm.

Upcoming classes, workshops and more include:

  • “Modern Japanese Cooking with Chef Caroline Fey” (April 27, 7 to 8:30 p.m.). A 4-course menu celebrating modern flavors.
  • “Make Your Own Spa Essentials” (May 2, 7 p.m.). Do it without harmful additives. Take home your own creations!
  • “Blooming with Paints” (May 9, 6 to 8 p.m.). An art workshop brings to life a floral still life arrangement.
  • “Pizza-Making Class for Grades K-1” (May 12, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.). Topped off with eating!
  • “Learn to Make Goatmilk Soaps” (May 21, 11 a.m. to noon or 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.). Enjoy!

Click here for more information, and to register.

Kids learn pizza-making, using Wakeman Town Farm’s own brick oven.

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Staples High School soccer fans knew Alan Fiore as a passionate, high-scoring attacker.

Music fans will soon know him as an indie pop/rock artist.

The 2021 SHS graduate — now studying at Berklee College of Music — has just released his first song. “Take the Bait!” was inspired by artists like Dayglow, the 195, the Bleachers and COIN.

Alan produced, mixed and mastered it all himself. Click here for links to all streaming platforms. Click here for Alan’s website, and more music.

Alan Fiore

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Whether you’re hunting eggs or afikoman this weekend, Jolantha has you covered.

This was Weston’s favorite pig* yesterday:

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

*Good for Easter ham; not kosher for Passover.

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Nearly every “Westport … Naturally” photo shows an outdoor Westport wonder. That’s (naturally) where most are.

Today, Molly Alger takes us inside the Senior Center for this beautiful, patriotic and Ukrainian-colorful arrangement:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … today is April 15. It’s also Good Friday. Tomorrow is Saturday. So taxes are not due until Monday (April 18).

Still, because this is the traditional IRS deadline, we present:

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Roundup: Affordable Housing, Gilbertie’s, I-95 Noise …

Posted on April 13, 2022 | 9 comments

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Last night’s meeting on a 5-year plan for affordable housing — co-sponsored by the Democratic, Republican, Save Westport Now and Coalition for Westport political parties — drew some interesting comments.

Among them: a proposal to install metered parking downtown. The proceeds — estimated to be $1 million or so annually — could be used to create a substantial affordable housing fund.

With Westport’s credit rating, the town could borrow $20 million.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin at last night’s Town Hall meeting on affordable housing. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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A couple of months ago, “06880” gave a shout-out to Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. This year, Westport’s 2nd-oldest family business celebrates its 100th anniversary.*

At the time, they were beginning to plan a huge celebration. Now they’re ready to announce details.

The free bash is set for June 4, from noon to 5 p.m. at the garden center on Sylvan Lane South.

The very popular Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads will headline the bash. Reggae artists Kale Wale will warm up the crowd.

There’s a petting zoo for kids, and artisans and craft vendors for older folks.

Also on tap: a town-wide scavenger hunt too, with prizes. It will focus on the town’s most historic business, ending (of course) at Gilbertie’s.

Plus 3 food trucks, an ice cream truck and beer vendors.

Antonio Gilbertie — who arrived in Saugatuck in 1919 from Italy, and started out selling flowers from a Sylvan greenhouse — probably listened to opera, not reggae. But he’ll probably be looking down from above, with a proud smile.

*Who’s #1? Gault — by a long shot. The energy company was founded in 1863 — nearly 60 years before Gilberties!

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“06880” reader Jim McKay* wants to raise a ruckus.

His subject: noise.

Jim writes: “In 1958, I-95 sliced through Saugatuck, and other areas of Westport.

“A lot has changed since then. There’s more people, more traffic, more trucks. And more noise.

“The Connecticut Department of Transportation has a number of redesign plans for sections of 95. They include Greenwich, and Westport/Norwalk.

“A few days ago, under pressure from Greenwich town leaders and citizens, Governor Lamont asked CT DOT to revisit the Greenwich project and include possible noise mitigation plans.

“Now is the time for our Westport town leaders and citizens to demand equal revisions to the existing plans, to make sure it include noise mitigation.

“Noise has gotten worse. It will continue to do so. We have a unique opportunity to include noise mitigation before the project goes forward. It must be an incremental cost now — not a massive capital project 20 years in the future.”

*Not the sportscaster. He died in 2008.

Traffic — and noise — have increased since I-95 (then called the Connecticut Turnpike) neared completion in 1957,

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Staples Players’ production of “The Descendants” drew raves. Audiences old and (particularly) young delighted in a never-bef0re-seen production of Disney’s tale.

It’s a tradition for the high school troupe to raise awareness of important causes — and funds — at their shows. This year was especially important.

Costumed actors were on hand as audiences left the theater. It turned into a great photo opportunity for children, and their new high school heroes.

Their parents gave generously. Over 2 weekends, Players collected $8,400 for Save the Children’s Ukraine relief efforts.

Quinn Mulvey (Mal), and a new friend. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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On Saturday, a Westporter was out for a run. A few yards over the Fairfield line, where Old Road becomes Wakeman Lane, he spotted a car balanced on a stone wall, halfway into the woods.

That was bad enough. But the kicker is the bumper sticker.

It reads: “Please Be Patient. Student Driver.”

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There are matching grants. And then there are amazing matching grants.

Two anonymous donors have told Westport Country Playhouse they’ll match every dollar raised — up to $150,000 (!) — between now and June 30.

That’s great news, as the historic theater enters its 91st season. They’ve got an ambitious set of plays planned, and will leverage the funds for greatest artistic and educational impact.

Tax deductible contributions can be made online, by mail (Development Department, 25 Powers Court, Westport CT 06880), or by texting DONATE to 475-453-3553. To learn more about the perks of donating at various levels, click here. For more on this matching drive, click here.

A historic theater has a historic opportunity to raise funds. (Photo/Robert Benson)

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There are runners. And then there are amazing runners.

Monday’s New York Times included a story on Oz Pearlman. He’d just run 19 loops of Central Park — 116 miles — in a single day.

Because “06880”‘s tagline is “Where Westport meets the world,” there is (of course) a local connection.

The main photo showed Oz with a group of runners. Just to his right — wearing a blue-and-yellow hat, to match Oz’s Ukrainian-color outfit — was Alex Freedman.

Alex Freedman (blue and yellow cap) next to Oz Pearlman. (Photo/Hilary Swift for the New York Times)

Freedman — the 1996 Staples High School salutatorian — is now back in town, and running with the local Joggers Club. He is also a founding member of the Central Park Running Club. Both are led by another Westporter, Dave Menoni.

Freedman runs with a third group, the Henwood Hounds. That’s where he met Oz. Freedman joined in for “a small part” of Oz’s Central Park (and record-breaking) journey. (It was also a fundraiser for Save the Children’s Ukrainian relief. Oz busted well past his goal of $100,000.)

When he’s not outside, Freedman is the director of Advantage Testing of Westport,

Notice I resisted the impulse to say he “runs” the highly regarded educational counseling and private tutoring organization.

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Savvy + Grace’s new sign has brought color to that stretch of Main Street, and smiles to passersby.

Most probably don’t know that it’s the work of a noted artist.

Jana Ireijo is famous for her “vanishing murals.” Created with charcoal from wildfires, they are meant to disappear — just as the coral reefs, manta rays and other living things she portrays are, unfortunately, dying out.

Ireijo — a member of the Artists Collective of Westport — has created vanishing murals here. She drew a koala bear opposite Design Within Reach, and a sperm whale on a Winslow Park fallen tree trunk.

She’s worked far from Westport too — in Santa Fe and Maui, among other places.

The peonies on Jana’s Savvy + Grace sign is not meant to disappear. It’s just a colorful addition to a bright downtown spot.

PS: Savvy + Grace offers great custom and pre-made Easter baskets. Click here to see.

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Among his many civic efforts — all of them volunteer, pro bono — attorney Ken Bernhard is a state Department of Agriculture animal (victim’s) advocate. He appears in court proceedings involving animal cruelty cases.

At yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting, he talked about his work. He connected animal abuse with spousal abuse and other crimes.

Bernhard noted:

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.

“When humans act with cruelty, we characterize them as ‘animals.’ Yet the only animal that displays cruelty is humanity.

“Animals are the real victims on this earth. They didn’t declare war, they don’t have weapons, and they don’t want to destroy humans or impose religion. Their only crime is they exist.”

Ken Bernhard, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

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The Fresh Market ospreys get most of Westport’s love.

But they’re not the only ones in town.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is a two-fer. Here’s one of the Longshore ospreys:

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

And a pair at Burying Hill:

(Photo/Alan Phillips)

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And finally … all his life, Julian Lennon refused to sing “Imagine.”

The only time he could consider singing his father’s signature song, he said, would be “the end of the world.”

The war in Ukraine is not that (yet). But it spurred John Lennon’s 59-year-old son to reconsider.

It is “an unimaginable tragedy,” he said. “As a human, and as an artist, I felt compelled to respond in the most significant way I could.”

He performed at a #StandUpForUkraine funddraiser in Prague on Saturday. The event raised $10 billion in pledges for Ukrainian refugees.

Imagine!

 

 

 

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Staples Senior Seeks Identity Beyond Sports

Posted on April 11, 2022 | 7 comments

Ella Alpert is broadcast director of Inklings, Staples High School’s newspaper/magazine.

She is also president of the Young Democrats Club, and one of the presidents of the Staples chapter of TEAM Westport.

For far longer, she’s been a competitive swimmer. After many years in the sport, Ella was named captain of last fall’s Staples swim and dive team.

It was quite a season — but not always in ways she expected. This month, Ella — who heads to Scripps College next year, to major in political science, American studies, or writing and rhetoric — wrote about her experience for Inklings. 

Her words are insightful; her message, important. With her permission, I’m reprinting them here:

Throughout my childhood, I’ve missed birthday parties, sleepovers, playdates, you name it. Instead, I was staring at the black line on the bottom of a pool. Six days a week, 3 hours a day and around 48 weeks a year. This routine lasted for my 10 years as a competitive swimmer.

I finished my senior season as captain of the Staples swim and dive team this past fall. Then I took my cap and goggles off for the last time and quit. Even after starting the college recruitment process, I was no longer willing to keep up with the commitment and pressure of it all. I can now see how pressure and toxic competition hurt my relationship with the sport that I loved and limited my ability to pursue other passions.

Ella Alpert: on the pool deck …

I joined my first club swim team in 2ndgrade, and fell in love. Something always clicked in the pool. I loved the excitement of racing, the feeling of diving into the water, nailing the turns, pushing your body to the limit and the pride of hard work paying off.

However, I was adamant that I made time for my other interests. I liked my balance of orchestra practice, dance lessons, Girl Scout meetings and swimming. But I watched as my teammates improved greatly by making swimming their priority. And I was receiving the same advice from coaches: “You have great potential but need to be more committed if you want to improve.”

They told me double practices before and after school, 6:30 a.m. Saturday workouts and hours of daily exercise outside of the pool would be what it takes to become a serious, successful swimmer.

As a competitive person, I wanted to succeed, so I became fully committed to the sport and began to see results.

For many years, my love for swimming outweighed my desire for a normal childhood. But after years of serious commitment, my love began to fade and I resented swimming for taking it all away. Yet I wouldn’t let myself think about quitting. Swimming had become my whole life, identity, purpose. The child in me who vowed she wouldn’t let swimming consume her entire life was gone — whisked away by the pressure.

… and in the water.

I was lucky that my parents never added to the pressure that I received from coaches and teammates, but many of my teammates weren’t as fortunate. My best friend’s parents pressured her to workout at home in addition to swim workouts and hired outside coaches for private lessons. They put so much pressure on her success that she pitted herself against her closest friends, damaging friendships.

Even as early as middle school, some parents were under the impression that swimming was going to get their child to college, and they needed to stay on the path to get there.

That being said, I don’t hate swimming or even regret my years in the sport. I love swimming and despite the pressure felt a deep yearning for success just like all competitive athletes. The sport introduced me to some of my best friends and taught me invaluable life lessons. However, I do wish I could have explored my other interests without the immense guilt that came with missing practice.

Now that I’m done with swimming, I have the time and flexibility to enjoy the rest of my senior year with friends, explore new hobbies and dedicate more time to the other extracurriculars that I enjoy. I’m excited to enter my college years without 6 am practices limiting my social life.

Swimming was such a huge part of my identity and for a while I didn’t know who I would be or what I would do without it. But I am excited to find out.

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Roundup: Real Estate, Food, Trees …

Posted on April 9, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Real Estate, Food, Trees …

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The 1st quarter of 2022 is in the books. That means it’s time for some real estate stats.

Westport had 86 house closings, a 25% decrease from a year ago but
still the 2nd-most number of closings for this period since 2006.

The average house closing price of $2.2 million was the highest for the quarter in the past 2 decades. The average closed price per square foot rose to $509, up 23% from a year ago.

Reflecting high demand and low inventory, houses in the quarter sold on average for 102% of the list price — the 4th  straight quarter that average has been over 100%

Eight-five Westport houses were pending (properties with signed contracts) on March 31. That’s down slightly from the end of March 2021, but still high by historical measure.  (Hat tip: Rose Marie Colletti, Brown Harris Stevens)

This Bluewater Hill home is on the market for $12 million.

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Two years ago, Westport Farmers’ Market started its #Who Grows Your Food” campaign. The goal was to expand people’s knowledge of what farmers look like, to gain more support foro local agriculture.

Anne Burmeister and Ashley Skatoff offered to help. They lent their photographer lenses and creativity, capturing the essence of the farmers while creating an intimate story that eaters could follow along with.

Last fall, the Farmers’ Market partnered with MoCA Westport. Dozens of Burmeister and Skatoff’s stunning photographs became part of an art exhibit called “Between the Ground and the Sky.”

Now, those 52 photos from over 15 farms are available for purchase.

Each 18″ x 27″ original print (23″ x 32″ with border) is $500. All are signed and dated by the artist. The print includes information about the farm and photo, plus text created by the artist for the display at MoCA. The certificate is signed by the farmer.

All proceeds support WFM programming. Purchased photos may be picked up at the first 3 markets of the season: May 12, 19 and May 26.

For more information and to purchase, click here.

“Chicken Tractors” by Anne Burmeister is one of 52 Farmers’ Market photos available for sale.

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Arbor Day is near — and the Westport Tree Board is ready. Among the events throughout the month:

Saturday, April 23 (10:30 a.m. to noon, Jesup Green, free): The Tree Board and Westport Book Shop celebrate Earth Day with a fun event to promote reading for all ages, with attention also on the value of trees. Interactive family-friendly activities involving reading and early learning; educational materials and a native tree sapling giveaway, courtesy of Bartlett Tree Company.

Friday April 29 (Arbor Day, 3 to 4 p.m., Town Hall, free):  The Tree Board hosts their annual native sapling giveaway, plus brochures and advice from professional associations on tree-related topics, from site selection to proper maintenance.  Native saplings for giveaway are donated by Bartlett Tree.

Saturday, April 30 (3 to 4 p.m., Earthplace): The Tree Board hosts a live discussion and free information session with a tree professional on the basics of tree planting and maintenance, including selection, mulching, pruning, pest management and more. Native tree saplings, courtesy of Bartlett, will be available while they last.

As part of Arbor Day, Earthplace also hosts a “Toast To The Trees” family event 4 to 6 p.m.), with kids’ activities and s’mores, handmade pizza, beverages for adults and kids, plus a “tree walk” tour.  Click here to purchase tickets.

Beginning mid-April, the Tree Board and Westport Library will create a “StoryWalk” at the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum (2 Woodside Lane).  The featured book is “Be a Tree!” For more information, click here.

A Norway maple at the Wadsworth Arboretum.

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Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offered a video update yesterday. He covered 4 areas:

The 5-year capital forecast to bring all schools — especially Long Lots and Coleytown Elementary — up to the district’s standards.

The uptick in the COVID Omicron sub-variant.

The Westport Public Schools’ ongoing equity study.

Ukrainian refugees. Scarice notes that Westport has already welcomed some to town, and any student settling here will be accommodated — as will all refugees from anywhere who come to Westport. He asks anyone with any information on refugees in Westport to call his office: 203-341-1025.

Click here to view the video update.

A screenshot of Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, giving a video update from his office.

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Speaking of Westport Public Schools: Horace Lewis was the beloved head custodian at Staples High School, and served the district for 3 decades. He suffered a stroke shortly after retiring last summer, and died in December.

Classrooms, hallways, teaching kitchens, storage areas, auditorium, gym, fieldhouse, cafeteria, library, TV studio, boilers and HVAC systems — Horace kept them all sparkling and working. Despite a stressful job, staff and students knew Horace as the walkie-talkie carrying, most cheerful custodian.

Over the years, countless students (and parents) enlisted Horace’s help after leaving coats, backpacks, sporting equipment and phones at school. Even after his official retirement, Horace stayed on to help the schools cope with COVID cleaning requirements.

To honor Horace’s legacy of hard work, service to others and positive outlook, Staples Tuition Grants has created a scholarship in his name. The first need-based award will be offered this year. Click here to donate to this special fund.

Horace Lewis

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Among the most impressive parts of Westport Country Playhouse’s production of “Next to Normal”: the set.

Like everything that appears on the Playhouse stage, it was constructed by the in-house production staff — with help from  Jake Krasniewicz, assistant box office manager.

But that’s not his only side gig.

The Stratford native plays bass, ukulele, guitar, banjo and synthesizer. At Berklee College of Music he studied film scoring.

After graduating, Jake spent time in Boston’s music scene. When he returned to Connecticut, he formed Drop Party. The band plays an amalgam of genres, and call their style “a way to access emotions without sounding like radio music.”

Drop Party is part of this weekend’s Westport Library VersoFest. On Sunday (April 10, 7 p.m.), they open for Selwyn Birchwood.

What does all this have to do with building the set?  After college, Jake helped out at his father’s welding shop. The Playhouse technical director recruited the assistant box office manager to help with the extensive welding needed for the “Next to Normal” set.

He particularly enjoys funk. But it seems “heavy metal” is also one of Jake’s outlets. (Hat Tip: Bruce Miller)

Jake Krasniewicz takes a break from ticket sales and music,, to help create the “Next to Normal” set.

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There’s always something going on Westport — and much of it flies under the radar. And I do mean “radar.”

Last Saturday, over 100 automotive enthusiasts and industry leaders filled
the Autostrada facility — formerly the Steinway piano showroom — to kick off the Piston Foundation’s 2022 season.

Attendees came from across the US and Europe. They heard the non-profit
foundation lay out its mission to “bring more young people into the collector car industry so the craftspeople who built this American touchstone can transfer their skills to a new generation.”

The site included a “collection of exotic automobiles.” A silent auction raised funds for students and apprentices to pursue careers in automotive craft, restoration specialties and service.

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Staples High School seniors Sophie Alcyone and Alexandra Maskoff were honored this week, at the 27th annual High School Arts Awards ceremony.

Selected by the Staples staff, Sophie was recognized for visual art, Maskoff for music. The event was sponsored by the Connecticut Association of Schools.

From left: Sophie Alcyone and Alexandra Maskoff.

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With spring arriving fitfully, Jonathan Alloy offers 2 “Westport … Naturally” photo.

He writes: “My wife Sarah hung a pretty seasonal wreath on our front door, which real birds used to build a real nest — now complete with real eggs! Robins perhaps?”

Here’s the wreath:

And the eggs:

(Photos/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … the Westport Library’s VersoFest (see story above) and Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz present an intriguing concert tonight (7 p.m.). Headliners are Enid Ze and Daniprobably. Click below for a sneak listen; click here for ticket information, and more.

 

 

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Roundup: Y & Ukraine, Descendants, myTeamTriumph …

Posted on April 7, 2022 | 4 comments

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The world knows Lindsay Czarniak as a Fox Sports anchor and reporter.

Westporters know her as our neighbor.

Westport Weston Family YMCA members know her as a fellow cardio fitness class member. Instructor Ashlee Grieb is a longtime friend.

The other day, Lindsay posted a story to her 180,000 Instagram followers. She described how Ashlee introduced a song requested by Jane Laska, a fellow group member.

Jane came to the US from Ukraine years ago, as an exchange student. She fell in love with a man from Alabama, and married him. They live here now, where she’s raising a family.

But her own family, and many friends, remain in Ukraine.

Ashlee then played a song — “Good Evening, We Are From Ukraine” — as a way to support Jane. And she added her own choreography.

It was a special moment, for Ashlee and Jane.

It was special enough for Lindsay to post about it. It already has over 10,000 likes. Click below to see for yourself. (Hat tip: Julie Maciejewski)

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Didn’t get a chance to see “Descendants: The Musical”?

Staples Players’ lively musical has 3 more dates: tomorrow (Friday, April 8, 7:30 p.m.) and Saturday (April 9, 3 and 7:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Not sure about it? Need a little push?

Disney executives came to Westport during rehearsals. Staples is piloting the show, and they wanted to see it in action.

They brought a camera crew. The teenage actors and tech crew were eager to talk about the show’s message — and its energy.

The result is a sizzling sizzle reel. Click below to see:

https://player.vimeo.com/video/694692925?h=30edc1bad4

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Speaking of live theater, here’s a message to the woman sitting next to me at last night’s powerful Westport Country Playhouse performance of “Next to Normal”:

Unless you’re waiting for a kidney, there’s no need to check email messages on your phone in the middle of a show.

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It was Staples Day yesterday, when Middlebury and Union faced each other in a college baseball game.

Both starting pitchers were former Wrecker teammates: Justin Lessing for the Panthers, Harry Azadian for the Dutchmen. George Goldstein also pitched, for Middlebury.

George got the victory, 7-5. But the real winner was Staples baseball.

George Goldstein (Photo/David Goldstein)

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In a town filled with volunteer opportunities, myTeamTriumph stands out.

The program pairs children, teens and adults with disabilities (“captains”) with volunteers (“angels”) who help them participate in triathlons and road races. In those events, everyone truly is a winner.

The next big event is the Westport Young Woman’s League’s Minute Man 10K and 5K Runs, and 5K Walk, on April 30.

MyTeamTriumph always looks for more captains (special needs athletes). They’re also short of angels (volunteer runners). This is their first time participating in the Minute Man.

They’re excited to provide an opportunity for people with special needs (and their families) to have increased visibility, and be involved in a great community event.

There is no cost. Angels can be any ability of runner or jogger.

Captains and angels can click here to sign up. MyTeamTriumph will take care of race registration.

Questions? Email kziebell@myteamtriumph-ct.org. For more information on myTeamTriumph, click here.

Sami Leskin, racing with myTeamTriumph in the 2018 Westport Triathlon.

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The Westport Library’s Spring Book Sale returns soon.

From April 29 through May 2, thousands of “gently used” books, in over 40 categories of fiction and non-fiction, for children and adults, plus antiquarian volumes, CDs and DVDs, will be on sale (and cheap!) in the Library.

Of special interest this year:

  • Vintage matchbooks from around the country
  • Antique photographs and daguerreotypes
  • Psychology texts for the practitioner
  • Large selection of books in German and Czechoslovakian
  • Many “Great Courses” DVDs.

Vinyl records (and of course more books) are available across Jesup Green, at the Westport Book Shop.

Admission is free, though there’s a special “early bird” admission on Friday, April 29 (8 to 9 a.m.; click here for tickets, beginning April 18 at 9 a.m.).

For exact times and more information, click here. To volunteer to help, click here or email volunteers@westportbooksales.org.

Can’t make it? Shop 24/7 on the book sale’s online store, or at their new eBay store.

Westport LIbrary Book Sale.

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In June, 22 Staples High School students will graduate with high honors. The distinction goes to those with a GPA in the top 4% of the graduating class.

Principal Stafford Thomas says, “This class is extremely talented. The most
astonishing aspect is that these students were involved in a number of
extracurricular activities and various aspects of school life which took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom as well.

We were lucky to have had them for 4 years, and we will no doubt hear about their next great achievements in the years to come.”

High honor graduates include: Emma Alcyone, Natalie Bandura, Gregory Beal, Zachary Bishop, Michael Brody, Oliver Clachko, Sabrina Didner, Erin Durkin, Matthew Genser, Alexandra Maskoff, Aidan Mermagen, Gabriella Messenger,
Tessa Moore, Luke Morelli, Chloe Nevas, Emma Nordberg, Talia Perkins, Finn Popken, Ishan Prasad, Jessica Qi, Allison Schwartz and Julian Weng.

Staples High School principal Stafford Thomas (back row, far left) and assistant principal Chase Dunlap (back row, far right), with Class of 2022 high honors graduates.

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Though dogs are banned for the spring and summer at Compo Beach, they’re still welcome at Sherwood Island — but only through April 14.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a bit of canine joy at Connecticut’s first state park.

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … people of a certain age knew him as a smooth-voiced, good-looking pop singer in the pre-Beatles days. He had 19 Billboard Top 40 hits,.

People of a younger age knew his name only because it was a fictional high school in “Grease.”

He was Bobby Rydell. He died Tuesday near Philadelphia, his longtime home, from complications of pneumonia. He was 79. Click here for a full obituary.

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Drew Angus’ Wrecking Ball

Posted on April 7, 2022 | 6 comments

This old house is quiet now
But I still hear the sounds
The Stones on the stereo
Mets on the radio
Mom screaming turn it down
Dust on the shelves
Dents in the rug where my bed once rested
Tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

The words may be unfamiliar. But the feelings resonate with anyone whose childhood home was chopped down.

Just like the one on Colony Road, where Drew Angus grew up.

I still see my family and me
Framed on the walls
My brother’s first steps
Big wheel wrecks
And the fire pit in the fall
You might see some shutters and shingles 
But to me it’s something sacred
Tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

Drew’s parents moved there in 1994, when he was 4 years old. Four houses shared one driveway.

Drew Angus’ Colony Road home.

“It was such a fun place to grow up,” he says. “We rode our bikes to school. There was a huge ravine in the back. We played manhunt, hide-and-seek and paintball. It was the best trick-or-treating spot in town, before Gault.”

Drew graduated from Staples High School in 2007. He’s now a singer/songwriter, with a great following. This summer, he’ll join the Lumineers and Stevie Nicks at Bridgeport’s Sound on Sound Festival.

Drew Angus

He sings about what he knows. One of those is that his childhood home is now just a memory.

Oh tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it 
Down to the dirt in a cloud of dust
22 years and what’s left of us
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball
Oh, surrenders to the Wrecking Ball.

Drew had so much to write about. He and co-writer Neil Herman captured some of his feelings in the lyrics above and below. But he remembers so much more: The scratches on the floor from a rowdy sleepover. The spot where orange soda spilled during a birthday party. His bedroom wall, painted like a western movie scene.

Not all the memories are great, of course. But right now, they’re all he has.

That, and his song.

If this old house could speak somehow
What would it say?
Thanks for the memories
But just like a melody
It’s my time to fade away
Take one last look
Carve your name in the door
And kick out the kitchen windows
‘Cause tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

“Wrecking Ball” cover.

The backhoe creaked up the driveway. Drew asked if he could hop in. The operator showed him which lever to push. Within seconds, the garage came tumbling down.

Oh tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it
Down to the dirt in a cloud of dust
22 years and what’s left of us
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball
Oh Surrenders, surrenders
Surrenders, surrenders
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball.

The lyrics, he says, are “some of the truest to my heart of any song I’ve written.”

It’s tough to put himself out there like that. And countless other people are losing their homes for other reasons, like foreclosures and bombs.

But, Drew says, “this is my story.”

And — at least in “06880,” and places like this — it’s many of his fans’ stories too.

This old house is quiet now 
But I still hear the sounds…

(Click here to stream Drew Angus’ “Wrecking Ball” on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and other platforms.)

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