Category Archives: Teenagers

Roundup: Old School Music, Kids’ Fun, Mystery Plane …

Posted on August 19, 2024 | 14 comments

When it comes to musical performances, the Westport Library consistently sets the bar (ho ho) high.

Yesterday afternoon, they exceeded even their own stellar standards.

Roger Kaufman’s “Speaking of Music” series focused on the 5 M’s — Memphis, Macon, Muscle Shoals, Motown and Miami — that influenced so much musical history.

The mesmerized, hand-clapping (and occasionally dancing) crowd was wowed by the vocal talents of Dennis Collins (Roberta Flack/Donny Hathaway), backed by Sharon Collins, Billy Genuario, Stephanie Harrison and T’Zelle Wilson.

Also on stage: the Old School All-Stars band (Bob Cooper, Tim DeHuff, Dave Edwards and Tyger MacNeal), and the Saugatuck Horns (Bob Carlson, Fred Scerbo, and former Rolling Stones sideman Crispin Cioe).

Special guest — author, bassist and musicologist Brian Torff — provided important back stories to the 5 historic towns.

We often say our Library rocks. Yesterday, it showed its soul.

The Old School All-Stars. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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Who says kids today can’t make their own fun?

These 2 took advantage of yesterday’s torrential rain. They taped themselves (well, someone else did) into garbage bags, then rolled down the hill at Staples High School’s Loeffler Field.

Looks even better than Fortnite!

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Also making their own fun: Westport’s Wiffle ball team.

Last week, “06880” featured Grant Theisinger. The rising Staples freshman and friends have created a competitive league, which plays on a full field in Grant’s back yard.

It’s a great concept, executed brilliantly by the boys.

This past weekend, they went on a road trip. Three players — Grant, Kyle Marcucio and  Finn Edwards — represented Westport at the Major League Wiffle Ball Tournament at Lasorda Legacy Park in Yaphank.

Competing in the 13-15 age division — with 29 teams from 7 states — “High Heat
won both pool play games Saturday against teams from New York City and Pennsylvania, gaining the #6 seed.

They won their first playoff game yesterday in exciting fashion 11-10, but then lost to the eventual tournament champs.

Most importantly, the boys had a blast. They also met Kyle Schultz, the founder of MLW.

Congratulations, guys. You’ll get ’em next year!

From left: Kyle Marcucio, Finn Edwards, Kyle Schultz, Grant Theisinger. (Photo/Marc Theisinger)

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Jeff Laska writes:

“I hope your readers can help solve a mystery.

“I live on Quentin Road down by the beach. I have the good fortune of being able to work from home many days of the week. Often, I work on my laptop on my back deck.

“Ever day since we moved into this house in 2021 (at least from May through October, when the weather cooperates), a small airplane flies over Compo Beach making loop after loop, at least 10-15 times a day. It’s crazy!

“It happens so often, and I’ve gotten to know the sound of the engine so well, that I’m able to tell if it’s a different plane just by the sound, even when off in the distance!

“I’ve tried to figure out where it comes from, whether it’s a tour guide or a flight training school, if it’s from Sikorsky or Danbury, etc., but to no avail!

“Any info? Any knowledge?”

I sure don’t know (though I’d sure like to figure out the deal with the helicopter that often flies over my condo at 10:30 many nights.)

If you can solve Jeff’s Compo Beach small plane mystery, click “Comments” below.

This is not the plane Jeff Laska often hears from his deck. In fact, it’s probably been “Photoshopped” in (or whatever technology was used over 100 years ago). If it was a real plane, at least some of the (very formally dressed) beachgoers would be looking up.

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In its 8 years, the Cello Camp has become an established part of Westport’s musical summer.

Nearly 3 dozen campers — mainly cellists, with a few bass players — spend a week learning new repertoire, and warming up their fingers for the school year ahead. Danielle Merlis and Lucas DeValdivia — Staples graduates, who played together since Long Lots Elementary School — lead the sessions.

The camp culminates in a free concert. The public is invited this Saturday (August 24, 5 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church).

The program ranges from Bizet, Dvorák and Vivaldi to “The Greatest Showman,” “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, and “Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter.”

Happy (cello) campers.

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Thanks to William Weiss for our new header: a wide-angle view of the Saugatuck River, and its west and Levitt Pavilion banks.

For those who don’t receive “06880” with a link to our home page (and for those who do, actually), here it is:

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Last week, the Staples football team did the “Murph” workout.

It was a fundraiser for both the Catch A Lift Fund, and the football program. Retired Army sergeant Jason Smith — who lost both legs, and suffered extensive damage to his right hand, when he stepped on an IED in Afghanistan, then recovered to win 8 medals at the Invictus Games — addressed the players and spectators. (Hat tip: Adam Vengrow)

Staples football staff, Gridiron Club members, town and police officials and Catch a Lift representatives, with the “Murph” participants. (Photo/JC Martin)

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Every day, our “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights some aspect of nature, somewhere in town.

Usually it’s an animal. Occasionally it’s a flower, bush or tree.

But weather is also part of Westport’s nature. Today’s Compo Beach image is one more example of the power — and surprising beauty — of Mother Nature.

(Photo/Rashmi Vyas)

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And finally … one more salute to Grant Theisinger, and Westport’s Wiffle Ball wonders:

(Weather or not you had a great weekend, “06880” is here to chronicle it. We serve Westport in many ways. But we can’t do it without reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

 

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

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Jonny Costello: Maccabi Champ, On And Off The Field

Posted on August 18, 2024 | 3 comments

The Olympics got worldwide attention this summer.

But another big sporting event drew thousands of athletes too.

The Maccabi Youth games, in London, are called “the Jewish Olympics.” Participants are Jewish athletes from around the world.

Among them: Jonny Costello. The Staples High School rising senior — about to begin his 3rd varsity season for the Wreckers — was among the 18 players representing the US in Under-18 age group competition.

Jonny Costello (#24), as a junior playing for Staples. (Photo/Mark Sikorski)

 He did more than just “represent.” Jonny was the team’s leading scorer, and was chosen as captain for the 3rd place match against Germany. He came through big time with 2 goals and an assist, helping the US win the bronze.

The Americans — with players from across the country — faced teams from the UK, France, Argentina and Germany.

Though they met for the first time at the airport, they meshed quickly and played excellent soccer.

Jonny Costello, at the Maccabi Games.

There’s more to Jonny’s story than soccer, though.

He has stuttered since he was 5. It hindered him socially when he was younger, in New York City.

Before his family moved to Westport just before 4th grade, he worried his new classmates might think he was “weird.”

But he blasted a home run on his first day at Coleytown Elementary School. That was all he needed, to make his mark —  and make friends.

In 2019, as his bar mitzvah loomed — a time when a 13-year-old must speak publicly, and confidently — Jonny did his project about his stutter.

He created a “crash course” video, using quick illustrations to explain concepts. (His vocal cords shut when he speaks. He has no trouble putting thoughts together. They just don’t always come out as quickly as he’d like.)

In the video, he talked about his own life (including a worker at Subway, who asks what’s wrong when he’s trying to order).

He offered strategies for family members, teachers, friends and strangers: Be patient. Don’t finish sentences for someone. Be kind.

The video was shown at his bar mitzvah. The synagogue erupted in cheers.

Jonny’s parents, Sean and Lauren, emailed it to the guests. It was uploaded to YouTube.

Almost immediately, the video went viral.

Speech therapists in Sweden and Portugal asked for translations. A girl watched it 4 times, then asked her teacher to show it to the class. An 18-year-old who had lived his life “in the shadows” said that Jonathan’s video perfectly articulated his life.

It even reached the most famous stutterer in the world: Joe Biden.

Soon, Jonny met the former vice president.

Fast forward to London, where Jonny assumed a leadership role on the Maccabi squad.

The event’s media team was impressed. They made their own video, highlighting Jonny’s accomplishments on and off the pitch.

There’s an old saying: “Actions speak louder than words.”

In Jonny Costello’s case, it should be: “His actions speak as clearly as his words.”

(In 2019, “06880” reported on Jonny’s bar mitzvah video. Click here for that story.”)

(“06880” reports often on the achievements of Westport’s young people. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Sports, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Grant Theisinger And Friends Wiff For The Win

Posted on August 13, 2024 | 12 comments

The youth-industrial sports complex roars on, sucking up everything in its path.

Do any kids know how to create their own fun these days?

Grant Theisinger does.

Grant Theisinger

In 2 weeks, he’ll be a Staples High School freshman. He’s also a Wiffle ball fanatic. His friends love the game too.

Two summers ago Grant, and Harlan and Hayes Bauer, decided to develop a league, with organized teams.

That was fun. But they wanted more.

Last year, they took it to the next level. Grant saved up money from holidays and birthdays. He bought bases, a pitching mound and home plate turf.

2023 players. 

They followed Major League Wiffleball regulations for length and width of the field.

The boys made foul posts out of PVC pipes. Grant’s mom Kristy painted lines. She and his dad Marc installed a chain link fence in their yard — a major upgrade from the previous plastic fence.

Grant and the Bauers enlisted 5 other captains. Each drafted a team. Captains were responsible for finding subs whenever players had conflicts.

Nagly’s Nuggets. Their name and shirts were inspired by one boy’s grandmother.

Their 3-page document of rules includes being respectful to each other, keeping the grounds clean, and more.

Some teams made jerseys. Some wore eye black. Some brought family members, dressed up as mascots. 

Games are played in blazing sun, chilly temperatures, and during rain. 

Some of the 2024 players.

Over the past 2 seasons, they’ve played more than 200 games. There was a home run derby, All-American game, playoffs and World Series.

Grant kept track of stats. Trophies were awarded at the World Series, in a formal ceremony.

“High Heat” brings the heat. From left: Justin, Grant, Nolan, Dylan.

Parental involvement was minimal. Marc and Kristy welcomed all the boys each game, whether they were there to play or watch.

The yard was filled with 20 to 40 youngsters each time. They ate hot dogs and hamburgers, and snacks sent by players’ parents.

Signage posted around the Cavalry Road neighborhood on game days encouraged spectators to come, grab some food and watch the action.

It’s not a game without burgers and dogs.

It was (almost) like the big leagues. Madison Furniture Barn sponsored the boys, and sent banners to hang on the fence.

Anderson Septic Service provided bats and balls. Owner Brian Anderson played a few innings, and learned pitches from Grant.

Official sign, courtesy of Anderson Septic.

At the end of the season the parents donated two 8-foot benches for the sidelines. from Westport Woodworks.

“Official” benches

But make no mistake: This was the kids’ league.

There was no parent coaching. The boys learned as the league evolved. They made changes when they had to.

Opening day: the national anthem.

Always, they kept their eye on the prize: Having fun.

And of course, winning the World Series.

2024 champs: Cameron, Finn (on phone), Ian, Dean and Grady.

Independence, camaraderie, decision-making, managing their own schedules — and all without any adult telling them what they “should” do: It sounds like Grant Theisinger are already champions.

EXTRA INNINGS: This weekend, Grant takes his love for the game to another level. He’ll represent Westport at the MLW Long Island Wiffs Tournament at Lasorda Legacy Park in Yaphank. Best of luck in the 13-15 age division to Grant, Finn, Dean and Kyle!

FUN FACT: According to Wikipedia, the ball most commonly used in Wiffle ball was invented by David Mullany at his home in Fairfield in 1953, when he designed one that curved easily for his 12-year-old son. The game was named when his son and friends called a strikeout as a “whiff.”

(“06880” celebrates Westport’s youth whenever we can. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

2023 champs (from left):  Brody, Mateo, Henry, Patrick, Gabe, Kyle. (All photos/Kristy Theisinger)

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Tutoring Tip: Top Hat Teens

Posted on August 10, 2024 | 3 comments

It’s mid-August. The beach beckons.

So — how did this happen?! — does school.

The first day is August 27. Time to buy new clothes. Pick up supplies.

And find a tutor.

For a decade, parents unwilling (or unable) to fork over thousands of dollars — or whose kids don’t really vibe with another adult teacher type — have had an alternative.

Top Hat Tutors — originated and still run by Staples High School — is a team of 60 juniors and seniors.

They offer tutoring and support in a wide range of academic subjects. This year they’re adding SAT and ACT prep, and (in partnership with Staples National Music Honor Society), lessons on a variety of instruments.

Top Hat is not limited to Staples. Tutors come from Weston and Wilton too. They tutor in Fairfield also — and at the middle and elementary school levels.

Rates are $50 an hour for an individual student. Group sessions add $25 per student. Reduced rates are available, upon request.

A special program matches low-income students with a tutor for a free session every other Sunday.

Tutoring takes place in students’ homes, libraries, book stores — wherever there is little distraction. Online tutoring is also available. 

A key to Top Hat’s success is that every tutor has taken the classes they tutor. Some even had the same teacher as the student they work with. So the tutors not only understand the content; they’re intimately familiar with the actual course.

Vice president Megan Sargent and president Ryder Levine lead this year’s Top Hat Tutors.

Some clients are tutored weekly. Others call for one session — when, for example, a big test looms.

Clients tip their hat to Top Hat. In the dog-eat-dog world that is school today, it’s nice to have young pups around.

(Click here for the Top Hat website. To request a tutor, click here. To apply for the free tutoring program, click here. To apply to become a Top Hat tutor, click here.) 

(Here’s another smart move: Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Staples HS, Teenagers

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[OPINION] As School Nears, Neighbors Need Help

Posted on August 5, 2024 | 7 comments

An “06880” reader writes:

Like many Westport residents, my family donates to many charities — everything from cancer research to United Way.

In the past, we have given school supplies to the Bridgeport and Norwalk districts.

This year I decided to donate school supplies closer to home: Westport.

I posted on Facebook’s Westport Front Porch page. I knew that was risky, because comments there take strange twists and turns.

Every student needs a backpack.

But I asked if anyone had information for someone from the school district I could contact, to determine the needs before I purchased the items.

It took all of 10 minutes for the comments to start.

The first was a helpful one, about the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force collection of school items for families that are victims of abuse.

While I thought this was a worthwhile cause, and said I was more than willing to donate to it as well, I still wanted to donate supplies to the town.

That was met with comments saying I was misguided, and no one in Westport is in need of help. 

I started to respond to the naivete of that statement. Four percent of the town lives below the poverty line. But I decided to delete both my response and the entire post, to avoid any more comments. 

Our children had friends who went to school here. Their families struggled with decisions like whether to pay for school supplies or other bills. They chose to live in Westport to provide an exceptional education for their children.

They did this despite knowing it may cause issues for their children based on where they live, in what, sadly, some would call “undesirable” areas of Westport.

I reached out to a friend on a town board, who directed me to the Department of Human Services. I spoke to youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli.

She confirmed what I already suspected: Many families here need help. She said that the town gives out gift cards and donated school supplies each August to help these families.

It astounds me that some residents are so naive that they do not understand that many families struggle. No one knows what their neighbors may be going through.

I think it is important to not only call out the good work that the town does on behalf of the less fortunate families in the town, but to remind everyone that we have residents who may need help.

Treating your neighbors with understanding, acceptance and kindness will always be important.

(Westport’s Department of Human Services is collecting school supplies of all types — backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, crayons, lunch boxes, 3×3 sticky note pads, 3-ring binders, graphing calculators — along with Walmart gift cards. They can be dropped off in Room 200 at Town Hall.

(Donations can also be made online. Click here; scroll down, then click on the blue box “Family to Family.” That brings you to the donation page, where you select the fund (Family to Family) and seasonal program (Back to School).

(Questions? Contact Annette D’Augelli: 203-341-1050.)

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Posted in Children, Education, Teenagers

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Roundup: Young Shoots Photo Contest, Best Of Broadway Benefit …

Posted on July 31, 2024 | 1 comment

Only 2 weeks remain for young photographers to take shots at the Westport Farmers’ Market — and enter the “Young Shoots” contest,

The 8th annual event runs this Thursday and next (July 31, August 7). Students ages 5 through 18 can demonstrate their love for local food — and their creative photo talents — to win cash prizes in 3 age categories, plus a chance to attend an art class at MoCA CT.

All photos must be taken at the Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s an amazing place, filled with food, plants, food trucks, entertainers, the farmers themselves, shoppers — everything a young photographer could hope to capture.

Local artists will judge. Age groups are 5-9, 10-14 and 15-18. An exhibit at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (August 21, 6 p.m.) will showcase the winners. Every entrant can pick up a framed print of their photo there.

The contest is sponsored by the Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

Click here for rules, registration and more information.

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This terse, 2-line news release was sent to local media yesterday:

“As of July 27, 2024, Alma Sarelli will no longer participate as Campaign Manager for Candidate Kami Evans who is running for State Senate for the 26th District. Alma wishes Kami nothing but the best in her campaign.”

Kami Evans

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Tony Award winner James Naughton, and Aztec Two-Step folk legend Rex Fowler — both local residents — headline an all-star “Best of Broadway” cast.

The performance — a benefit for Sandy Hook Promise, the gun violence education and empowerment non-profit — is set for September 22 (6 p.m., SHU Community Theater, Fairfield).

The evening of music and dance includes stars from the casts of “Phantom of the Opera,”” “Les Miserables,” “Chicago,” “City of Angels,” “Cats” and more. Naughton and Fowler will host and perform.

The cast also includes veteran Broadway stars Dodie Pettit and Terry Eldh of Westport; a special screening of the trailer “A Father’s Promise,” and an auction.

Mark Barden and Nicole Hockley — co-founders and CEOs of Sandy Hook Promise, and parents of 1st graders killed in the vicious school shooting in Newtown — will be at the benefit.

For tickets, a full cast list and more information, click here.

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Speaking of entertainment: Westport singer Melissa Newman joins Tony Lombardozzi, Phil Bowler and Bobby Leonard at this week’s Jazz at the Post.

Thursday’s event (August 1, shows at 7 and 8:30 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) kicks off another great season for the popular series.

Reservations are highly suggested: JazzatthePost@gmail.com

Melissa Newman

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This cormorant waited patiently on a Ned Dimes Marina buoy — perhaps for someone to take his “Westport … Naturally” photo?

If so, Matt Murray obliged.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Happy 81st birthday to Lobo!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Politics, Teenagers

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“06880” Podcast: Tom Scarice

Posted on July 15, 2024 | Comments Off on “06880” Podcast: Tom Scarice

I always enjoy chatting with Tom Scarice.

Westport’s superintendent of schools is straightforward, insightful, articulate and on-target.

He does not shy away from controversy. He understands there are many sides to every story. He backs up what he says with facts, along with relatable stories and anecdotes.

Scarice’s recent visit to “06880: The Podcast” did not disappoint.

He tackled an important, contentious topic — cellphones in schools — with clarity and honesty. He offered plenty of ideas, from a wide variety of angles, while acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

Scarice knows that many discussions lie ahead: in schools and district offices; at Board of Education and PTA meetings, and on this blog.

Our conversation at the Westport Library is a great start. Click below to listen, and learn:

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Posted in Children, Education, Media, Staples HS, technology, Teenagers

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Roundup: Rye Ridge/159 Main, Row House, Staples Graduation …

Posted on June 24, 2024 | 1 comment

Yesterday, “06880” reported that Rye Ridge Deli was closing. A new place called 15 9 Main would take over.

In fact, Rye Ridge’s Westport location was sold to new owners in February. They have operated since, with a 4-month agreement to use the Rye Ridge name.

That’s ended. It is now officially 159 Main. It is open as usual.

Meanwhile, Rye Ridge’s 2 other locations — in Stamford and Rye Brook, New York — remain open under that name.

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However, there is definitely a vacancy in Compo Acres Shopping Center.

Row House — whose 25 erg (rowing) machines once hummed with activity, with people of all ages seeking a strong workout — has closed its doors.

Row House began in New York’s Columbus Circle in 2014. The Westport location opened 5 years later.

With the closing of Westport, the nearest location is Stamford.

Row House, in its heyday.

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Did you miss Staples High School’s 137th graduation ceremony this month?

Were you there, but want to relive it?

Jim Honeycutt — who retired after many years as a teacher, including director of the media lab — has posted the entire event online.

NOTE: Sharp-eared viewers will note that the “Pomp and Circumstance” processional music in the video is not the same as was played that day.

Staples now uses a recording, which is blocked by YouTube. Honeycutt substituted music played by the Staples band, back when they performed at fieldhouse graduations.

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Yesterday morning, 25 people from Saugatuck Congregational Church left for this year’s high school youth group mission trip. They’ll help Vermont residents recover from last year’s floods that devastated the state.

20 youth and 5 leaders will work on farms, assemble furniture, clean up areas in need, and meet people affected by the disaster.

The Saugatuck Church youth group is open to all students entering, in, or just graduated from high school. Attendance at Saugatuck Church or Staples High is not required.

Heading north: Saugatuck Church youth group. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Since his birth, Wakeman Town Farm has fostered an orphaned baby goat.

“Stuart Little” has now found a home. Time Out Foundation of Lakeville — a horse rescue/sanctuary that runs a free therapeutic program for children — adopted him.

Stuart Little and friend.

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Speaking of animals: After 4 years of hibernation, Sunny the Duck is back on Jesup Green.

The much-larger-than-life waterfowl advertises the Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual Great Race.

It’s this Saturday (June 29), at Jesup Green.

The fun begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, with activities like Nerdy Derby, pin making, face painting, bubble machines, duck pond giveaway and more (plus food trucks!).

The duck race starts at 1 p.m. Thousands of plastic ducks are dropped from a giant front loader, down a 160-foot long sluice course on Jesup Green.

Each duck has a number, matching a $20 raffle ticket. The first 10 ducks across the finish line win money for their ticket holders. First place gets $5,000, second place $1,000, while the next 8 earn $500 awards.

All the fun is for a great cause. Sunrise Rotary donates the proceeds to local and international charities.

Tickets can be purchased online at westportsunriserotary.org, or from any Westport Sunrise Rotarian at any time — including the morning of the event.

Wendy Krueger — daughter of Ralph Krueger, for whom Little Ralphie is named — checks out her father’s namesake with Bruce Paul, Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race chair.

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The Soundview Avenue streetscape is particularly beautiful this time of year.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image complements the sculpture that — all year long — draws plenty of attention, even without the flora.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … in honor of Row House (story above):

(As we start another week — including our daily Roundup — we remind you: “06880” relies on readers’ support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Environment, Local business, religion, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Graham Zemel: Teenager Hacks For Greater Good

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 3 comments

All throughout high school, Graham Zemel chased bugs.

It’s a passion project. And it pays.

Graham — who graduated from Staples last week — estimates he’s earned somewhere between “a tank of gas, and four years of college.”

Graham is not chasing beetles, mosquitoes or cicadas.

He’s after bugs in computer code. They can cost companies big bucks, if the bad guys — “black hat hackers” — find them.

Graham is a good guy: a “white hat hacker.” He’s part of a group that gets paid bounties by those companies, before the black hats hit.

Payments range from $50 to $2 million.

Graham Zemel: White hat hacker.

But Graham is not just a member of the white hat hacker community.

He’s a leader in it.

Though still a couple of months away from freshman year at the University of Colorado, Graham is the real deal.

He took all 8 computer science courses at Staples (plus discrete math, his favorite, studying subjects like cryptography and fractals).

But he’s also self-taught. Starting during COVID — when, to battle boredom, he built his own computer — Graham explored the internet. He learned how to code, on his own.

Then — still in his mid-teens — he put his mathematical mind and creative skills to work.

The more Graham learned about ethical hacking, the more he wanted to share. On his website — where he calls himself “a full-stack developer, cybersecurity programmer, and IT enthusiast” — he links to The Gray Area.

He began the site by providing educational resources to beginning programmers and cybersecurity enthusiasts.

But it evolved to much more. Over 30 writers have contributed more than 250 posts. More than 2 million readers have learned about topics like “How I Hacked the Dutch Government” and “The Akira Ransomware Saga.”

Meanwhile, GrahamZemel.com is the place to find projects like Game Bank (where users play online games with friends, or alone); a variety of hacking tools, and links to resources like the book he wrote about ethical hacking (“A Beginner’s Guide to Bug Bounty Hunting” is on Amazon).

It’s hard to believe, looking at his vast web presence, that until a few days ago, Graham was still a high school student.

He made his mark there too. He founded the Crypto Club, and was president of both the Cybersecurity Club and Coding Club.

In his spare time he developed the PowerSchool GPA Calculator. The Chrome extension helps students navigate their grades efficiently. Nearly every student at Staples uses it. So do thousands of others, across the country.

Clearly, Graham could be a black hat hacker if he wanted. There’s money to be made extorting companies after discovering their vulnerabilities.

Yet, he says, “it gives me a high to find vulnerabilities, and report them.” Plus, he adds, “I don’t want to go to jail.”

He has discovered 7 “high-quality” vulnerabilities, and hundreds more lower-level ones.

Graham Zemel, at work.

Bug hunting requires “divergent thinking,” Graham says. He sifts through code, runs a variety of tests, and sometimes spends hours searching for a particular bug.

He’s a very motivated young man. He’s accomplished a lot on his own.

But Graham has plenty of praise for his Staples education. Teachers like Dave Scrofani, Nick Morgan, John Wetzel and Maxim Kolb do a “fantastic” job, he says.

He tips his (white) hat to them.

(“06880” often highlights the accomplishments of Staples students — and everyone else in town. If you enjoy reading stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Staples Grads Walk Back To Elementary School

Posted on June 17, 2024 | 11 comments

As graduation approaches each year, many Staples seniors think back on their 4 years in high school. They thank the teachers who got them where they are.

Some recall their middle school instructors. A few might even remember those from elementary school.

But they seldom thank them. They just don’t have the chance.

This year, Staples High School provided that opportunity. A first-ever “Senior Walk” in early June offered 200 of the 426 soon-to-be graduates a nostalgic walk through Coleytown, Greens Farms, Kings Highway, Long Lots and Saugatuck Elementary Schools.

Wearing caps and gowns — and accompanied by a playlist of 2017 tunes — they were cheered and high-fived by former teachers and current youngsters.

Staples High School seniors Emma Booth, Brynn Fleisig, Harrison Putman, Mabel Propper, Katherine Frank, Hailey Johnson and Elise Eisenberger visit Greens Farms Elementary School for Westport’s first-ever Senior Walk.

It was gratifying for the educators, inspiring for the current elementary kids, and a literal trip down memory lane for the seniors.

The event will become an annual — and much looked forward to — tradition.

“Bringing the seniors back to their elementary school is a powerful reminder of the community’s impact on their educational journey,” says Staples principal Stafford Thomas.

“It’s a full-circle moment that highlights their achievements, and inspires the next generation to dream big.”

Avery Mueller (left) and Oliver Howard return triumphantly to Coleytown Elementary School.

But one set of graduates went even further. More than half of Talia Varsano’s former Long Lots kindergarten class gathered together, to salute their teacher Roseann Caruso.

The idea originated with Terri Dusch, whose daughter Anna was in the class. Though they’ve moved away she contacted Talia’s mother Karen, who collected contact info and helped make it happen.

The event — at the home of classmate Kai Seo — was rewarding for all. Caruso presented her “old” students with time capsules they’d made 12 years earlier. They compared long-ago hand prints with their much bigger ones now, and read notes they and their parents had written.

Roseann Caruso’s Long Lots kindergarten class in 2012 …

A dozen years ago, neither Caruso nor the students knew that the future Class of 2024 valedictorian was among them. With her friends, Leigh Foran was learning her ABCs — and how to be kind — in that Long Lots kindergarten room.

Over the years, that class — and so many others — have taken different paths. Some are athletes. Others are musicians and actors.

… and 2024.

Talia became an Inklings editor. Now she’s an “06880” intern.

She taped some of the fun at the Caruso reunion. Her video (below) is an important reminder of the difference one teacher can make in many lives.

And — as we all move forward — the importance of remembering our past.

(“06880” is proud to chronicle the journeys of many Westport young people. And older ones too, of course. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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