Christina Scherwin is a former Olympic athlete — and more recently, a European masters champions.
She loves watching her javelin fly through the air. She knows that her efforts can be measured precisely, down to the centimeter.
Now, as the Westport Weston Family YMCA‘s new chief operating officer, she can combine her love of sports, her appreciation for the community, and her MBA-honed business acumen, to manage the organization’s operations as effectively and efficiently as possible.
The Aarhus, Denmark native came to the US at 23, to study at Moravian University. She competed at both the 2002 Olympics in Athens, and ’06 in Beijing. In between she placed 4th at the World Championship in Helsinki, and won a World University Games medal.
Scherwin was a Nike athlete in Eugene, Oregon, a track and field m mecca. She coached for 4 years at the University of Oregon, then coached privately for 4 more. One of her male athletes competed in the London and Rio Olympics.
In 2014, she came east to be closer to Denmark. She quickly embraced Westport. Of all the places she’s lived in the US, this feels most like home.
Christina Scherwin
Scherwin earned an MBA at Sacred Heart University. She consulted and did executive coaching with small businesses. In 2018 — spurred by her daughter, a gymnast training with Sally Silverstein — she joined the Y board.
When the COO position opened up recently, she realized it was her dream job. She could be back in sports, while helping people — members and staff — reach their potential.
Last week — just 4 days into her new role — Scherwin talked about her new role.
As with every business, hiring is difficult. There are more jobs available than people qualified or ready to fill them.
Meanwhile, COVID has hit every gym and fitness center hard. All are reassessing their business models.
Of course, the YMCA is not just a gym or fitness center.
“It’s a vital community resource,” Scherwin notes.
Her daughter’s gymnastics, son’s basketball and both children’s Camp Mahackeno experiences are only part of what the Y offers.
Scherwin points to initiatives like a movement group for Parkinson’s patients, and a LiveStrong program for people with cancer.
When camp is not in session, the Mahackeno Outdoor Center is open.
The Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund, meanwhile, provides money for worthy organizations.
And, Scherwin says proudly, “We never turn anyone away from the Y.”
Scherwin is as active as ever. She works out in the Fitness Center (“you have to stay fit for life”), takes YMCA classes, and helps coach high school track and field athletes (including former Staples state champion Angus Fuori).
For years, the javelin circle was her home. Now it’s the Y.
“I want to make this a great place to work, and for everyone to know what a great community resource it is. We’re a welcoming space for all ages — little kids to seniors.”
She’d like to make the Y even more welcoming and important, perhaps adding blood drives and other events.
Scherwin measured her javelin success in centimeters. At the Westport Weston Family Y, she’ll be happy to see more programs, more members — and more smiles.
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Most Staples High School students are not yet eligible to vote.
But Connecticut’s 4th District congressional candidates made their cases yesterday to 120 students, from a half dozen social studies classes.
Scheduling issues prevented an actual debate between Democratic Congressman Jim Himes and his challenger, Republican Jayme Stevenson. They appeared at different times.
But both offered opening statements, and responded to written questions from the teenagers.
Himes began by noting his experience, and his accomplishments during his 7 terms in Washington. He highlighted large spending packages passed by Democrats, like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment Act.
Congressman Jim Himes speaks at Staples High School.
Stevenson detailed her experience as Darien’s former first selectwoman, and how she hopes to change the political environment in the nation’s capital.
Questions covered a wide-range of topics, including inflation and the economy, crime, school safety and education, climate change, and energy policy.
Himes defended the Democrats’ record under President Biden, highlighting in part the American Rescue Plan while conceding that it did influence inflation.
Stevenson discussed how an all-of-the-above energy policy is necessary to combat gas prices. She said that her oil bill is $500 more this year than last.
Himes was passionate about school safety and guns, promising to deliver more legislation if reelected. He said that the bipartisan gun control bill was a worthwhile step that lacked ambition.
Stevenson explained her proposal to fund school resource officers. She said she supports universal background checks, and has a pistol permit.
On the issue of education, Stevenson advocated for greater parental rights and school choice for low-income students.
Himes seemed open to late-term abortion restrictions, and said he would support returning the standard to Roe v. Wade.
Stevenson explained her pro-choice stand with “common-sense” restrictions, saying she would not support the 15-week abortion ban proposed by Senator Lindsey Graham.
On climate change, both candidates expressed the urgent need for action. Himes called it a “national security threat,” while Stevenson discussed conservation and innovative sustainability efforts.
Part of the large crowd at the Staples High School library yesterday.
Both candidates received the same final question: Despite the political tension and climate, what is one thing you respect about your opponent?
Himes pointed to his “strong working relationship” with Stevenson. He commended her for her leadership in Darien, and her anti-Trump opposition to election denialism.
Stevenson emphasized Himes’ family roots as a father.
The event was organized largely by Staples High School senior Spencer Yim, with help from both campaigns, social studies teacher Suzanne Kammerman and school administrators.
Bringing the candidates to Staples was a goal of the Your Vote Matters Club, which Yim founded. Kammerman is the faculty advisor.
“Today was an amazing opportunity to hear directly from the candidates themselves,” Yim says.
“Even though many students won’t be able to vote in this election, I hope this experience empowered them to explore, engage civically in the community, and be educated about the various issues and candidates so that they can be informed voters in the future.”
Recently, I have been the recipient of numerous acts of kindness and courtesy as I go about errands in Westport.
I am petite, silver haired, with some mobility issues. I very likely appear fragile,
Thus far, I haven’t needed assistance. However, the young people — men and women who seem in their 30s — who care enough to stop and offer their help are very much appreciated.
On one occasion, I had a conversation with a woman who thought of her mother when she saw me.
This is not the writer. But help is always appreciated.
Men are more inclined to hold doors, and to advance me when waiting in line for service. Others may offer pleasantries or a compliment.
All of these seemingly small things prove a generous spirit at work.
It is challenging to maintain independence. But it is of comfort to know there are aware people out there who wish to support and help
These people are a grace note in our town.
I want to acknowledge them, and offer my gratitude to all who have offered their help. My hope is that this good will grows in all our communities,
(To support our weekly “Unsung Heroes” feature — and all others — please click here.)
The Parks & Rec Department has held open houses on its Longshore Capital Improvement Plan. Residents weighed in — pro and con.
Now there’s another way to provide feedback. They’ve posted a survey on the project website, along with all the concepts already presented. It’s open through November 9.
Click here to take the survey. Be sure you have some time — it’s comprehensive.
A new, revised leaf blower ordinance got its first reading at last night’s Representative Town Meeting.
Because there are a number of changes from the original proposal — including the elimination of fines — there was no vote. After new committee hearings, the ordinance may be voted on in January.
Actor/director/Weston resident Jim Naughton writes:
“State Senator Will Haskell has told me that when he visited senior centers in several of the towns in his 26th District, he found that ‘Medical Aid in Dying’ was the bill they most wanted passed.
“This did not surprise to me. When my wife Pamela, having battled pancreatic cancer for 4 years, got to the end of her journey, she said to me, ‘Jimmy, I don’t want to wake up anymore.’ If Connecticut had made it available to her then, she would have used it.
“Also known as ‘Death With Dignity,’ the law has been adopted in 10 states and the District of Columbia. It came within one vote of making it out of the Connecticut Legislature’s Judiciary Committee last spring. A Gallup poll determined that 75% of Connecticut residents want it.
“I urge our neighbors to know where the candidates stand on the issue before voting next week. It will be revisited in the next session.”
Earth Animal cares about pets — and the humans who love them.
For the 15th straight year, they’re participating in the Mitten Project, for Connecticut Food Share. Last year, they raised over $40,000. This year — with increased need for help — the goal is $45,000.
Froom now through December 31, people can buy “mittens” at the store (and others in the area). Each “purchase” is a $5 donation.
In addition, cashmere mittens, Advent calendars and wreaths will be sold December 3 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) at Earth Animal. The store will match every dollar donated.
Special “Sip and Shop” events will also benefit CFS at:
J. Mclaughlin (342 Pequot Avenue, Southport,, November 17, 1-5 p.m.)
The Post (1799 Post Road East, November 17, 3 to 6 p.m.)
Millie Rae’s (1011 Post Road East, December 8, 4 to 6 p.m.)
Scout & Molly (283 Post Road East, November 16, 2 to 6 p.m.)
Outdoor Design and Living (1301 Bronson Road, Fairfield, November 17, 4 to 7 p.m.)
Mo’s Wine and Spirits (957 Post Road, Fairfield, December 8, 7 to 9 p.m.)
Milestone Restaurant (2 Main Street, Redding, CT, December 8, noon to 5 p.m.).
In addition, a homemade pie sale (apple, apple crumb, cherry, cherry crumb, pumpkin) at Wakeman Town Farm will send all proceeds to Connecticut Food Share. Click here to order between November 14 and 18. Pickup is November 22, from 3 to 7 p.m. at WTF.
And … Earth Animal is selling wreaths December 3 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), also for the CFS cause.
Want to make a donation without a purchase? Click here.
Sami DeWitt scored on a pair of corner kicks, and Annabel Edwards knocked in a third goal, as Staples High School’s girls soccer team downed Greenwich 3-1 last night, in the FCIAC tournament semifinals. A late Cardinal goal ruined Cami Kolek’s shutout bid.
The Wreckers — defending state and FCIAC champs — look to add another league title in tomorrow’s championship match against longtime rival St. Joseph (Thursday, November 3, 7 p.m., Wilton High School’s Kristine Lilly Field).
The Wreckers are ranked 3rd in the tourney. The Cadets are first. St. Joseph won the teams’ regular season match 2-1, less than 2 weeks ago.
Congratulations too to the Staples field hockey team!
They also play for an FCIAC championship tomorrow (Thursday, 7 p.m., Brien McMahon High School).
The #3-seeded Wreckers topped #2 Wilton 3-1 last night. Their opponents tomorrow are top-rated Darien. Staples will seek to avenge a 3-0 loss to the Blue Wave earlier this year.
The Staples field hockey team, after last night’s FCIAC semifinal win. (Photo courtesy of Inklings/India Ahl)
“Without much fanfare, a new stop sign appeared at the intersection of Greens Farms Road and Bulkley Avenue South.
“It seems that no one is observing it. Waze and other apps direct traffic this way when I-95 get congested- The morning (race car) commuters are in their zone, and blissfully unaware of this change.
“Without some police presence (or the addition of a stop sign 🛑 to map-apps), this interaction is actually more dangerous now.”
Greens Farms Road, looking west. South Bulkley Avenue is to the right; Stop and Shop (not pictured) is off it. (Photo/Stacie Curran)
Michael Chait has a large and well-deserved following for his original photographs, which he blends with aspects of paint technique. He is particularly fond of photographing Westport and New York City.
His work has been exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art, Museum of Natural History and the permanent collection of the Brooklyn Museum.
Now — just in time for the holidays — he’s got a new website. Click here to explore.
Folk and other music lovers know Voices Café — tucked inside Westport’s Unitarian Church — is a hidden gem.
Now kids can enjoy it too.
A special Voices youngsters’ event brings Dan and Claudia Zanes back to Westport this Saturday (November 5, 4 p.m.). They entertained a large Levitt Pavilion Chidren’s Series crowd a couple of years ago.
Voices Café is a sensory-friendly, open environment. There’s space up front for movement and fun.. Tickets are $25 per adult, $15 per child ages 2 to 17; children under 2 are free. A 15% discount is available for families of 4 or more. Click here for tickets and more information.
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Residents from across Connecticut filled the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum last night. They were there for “An American Conversation: How Public Policy is Putting Our Children at Risk.”
Moderated by Christine Dolan, chief investigative correspondent for CD [Creative Destruction] Media, it promised to be an “in-depth analysis of critical issues about ‘the story behind the headlines.'”
Though promotional material included topics like “exponential increase in youth deaths from fentanyl,” and “alarming increase in suicides of young people,” Dolan and the 5 panelists spent nearly all their time speaking about COVID, vaccines, big pharmaceutical companies and governmental tyranny.
Dolan opened by discussing organ trafficking. Then — after sharply warning against any use of cell phones for photos, or videotaping — she showed a hidden camera video from a meeting of the North American Man Boy Love Association.
“At the end of the day,” she warned, “the goal is to decriminalize pedophilia. This is a political agenda” through which the government wants children to learn about sex.
Dolan noted that she had been called a racist, by someone in Westport. She countered, “I was a spokesperson for Nelson Mandela’s 1990 United States tour.”
Panelists were Mary Holland, chief counsel of Children’s Health Defense; Kevin Jenkin,s, CEO of Urban Global Health Alliance; Elana Fishbein, founder of No Left Turn; Bob Hamer, a retired FBI agent who infiltrated NAMBLA, and Dr. Peter McCullough (no affiliation listed).
McCullough — a cardiologist — slammed the medical profession for its reaction to COVID. “You all can play a role in the resolution of this issue,” he told the audience, urging them to tell their doctors that they oppose vaccines.
The “pain scale” used in hospitals — which nurses utilize — has caused opiod problems, he said.
“Something in the minds of people causes them to think irrationally. And doctors are the heart of the problem.” He likened the “relentless advancement” of vaccines on patients to issues of “gender confusion and pornography.”
This is not just an American problem. “It’s global.”
McCullough continued, “Our government agencies have turned against our population.” He said that the Department of Defense and defense contractors are prominent booster of vaccines.
Holland said, “We are sprinting toward the apocalypse. You, not doctors, can turn this around. I will not be putting my child through this indoctrination.”
Westport Library audience for last night’s “American Conversation.”
Dolan blamed the loss of investigative journalism for a lack of media attention to the issues she and the panel highlighted. She cited Phil Donahue — apparently not knowing he is a former Westporter — as a former investigative journalist she admired.
She did note another prominent local resident: former US Food & Drug Administration commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb. “He’s not a good guy,: she said, without elaboration.
Noting that Fairfield County is an affluent area, she said that anyone owning stock in Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson or Glaxo Wellcome was also “part of the problem….A very dark, very black cloud, is putting humanity at risk, for money.”
Fishbein said that children in kindergarten are being taught how to masturbate, and that schools are expanding their services to students — including mental health — without parental consent.
Jenkins — who earlier stated, “All of us on stage are taking a stand against tyranny” — earned strong applause when he told the crowd: “You have no friends. Agencies have abandoned you. if you talk about believing in the flag or our country, they’ve criminalized you.
“And you allow them to do it. You fall back in line. That’s why tyranny keeps coming around.
“I’m stunned that half of this audience is waiting for someone to come rescue you. You must stand in the public square, and raise your voices. They’re coming at you. What are you going to do about it?”
At the end of the day, Dolan added, “God wil judge you.”
“Guys and Dolls” holds a special place in David Roth’s heart.
The Broadway classic was the very first show he staged at Staples High School, after being named Players director in 2000.
Nine years later, when he revived the show, his and co-director Kerry Long’s daughter was born on opening night — just 17 minutes after the curtain rose.
“Guys and Dolls” holds a special place for other Players directors too. It debuted in 1973; was reprised in 1983 (as a summer show), 1985 nd again in 1993.
When the curtain rises on November 11, the seventh production will make it the most popular in Staples Players history.
“Oldest Established” with the Gangster Ensemble. (Photo/Kerry Long)
“It’s such a great show!” Roth notes. “It’s got wonderful characters and great dancing. It’s funny. It’s been called ‘the best musical ever written.’ Audiences love it, and kids love working on it.”
“Guys and Dolls” is as perfect for Roth today as it was when he took Players’ reins 22 years ago. Back then he wanted to build 2 strong bases: actors and audiences.
Now — after COVID — he’s rebuilding both.
Though Roth and Long have directed “Guys and Dolls” twice before, this is an entirely new show. The set designer, technical director, choreographer and musical director are all new.
Roth says the set “is not to be believed.” Designed by Jordan Janota, and overseen by tech director Jeff Hauser, it features vintage light-up signs.
“Rockin’ the Boat” — on the great “Guys and Dolls” set. (Photo/Kerry Long)
Of course — this being high school — the cast is entirely new too. “New actors always make roles their own,” Roth explains.
The teenagers — born more than half a century after the show debuted, and not yet alive the first time Roth directed it — knew of the show, he says. But most had never seen it.
“They’ve been excited since the beginning,” he adds. “They’ve embraced these bigger-than-life characters.
“And Kerry and I are excited to expose them — and younger audiences — to a classic show like this.’
Fugue for Tinhorns with Jayden Saenz, Finley Chevrier and Sebastian Gikas
“Guys and Dolls” is 72 years old, but it always seems fresh and new. It was revived this month at Washington’s Kennedy Center, and will run next year in London.
It’s been produced 4 times on Broadway.
Seems like the Great White Way has a bit of catching up to do with Staples Players.
(“Guys and Dolls” will be performed on Friday and Saturday, November 11, 12, 18 and 19, at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on November 12, 13 and 19 at 3 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.)
ENCORE! Choreographer Rachel MacIsaac is about to deliver her second child. What are the odds that — like Lucy Roth — it too will be born on opening night?
(“06880” is almost as entertaining as Staples Players. Please click here to help support this blog.)
Sarah Brown (played by Madelyn Spera) and Sky Masterson (James Dobin-Smith). (Photo/Kerry Long)
The next step in the plan to create a new zoning district in Saugatuck — part of the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck project — is a Westport Planning & Zoning Commission public hearing. It’s set for Wednesday (November 2, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
Speaking of Saugatuck: “06880” announced a few days ago that Saugatuck Provisions will be moving into the former Fleishers Craft Butchery.
But our little morsel was nothing compared to the meal Stephanie Webster delivered.
Her CTBites — the go-to platform for all things foodie in the state — has a full report on the new venture.
She describes the “culinary power team” of Chef (and Staples High School graduate) Matt Storch and Susan McConnell — both of the highly regarded Match Burger Lobster and Match — along with Jimmy Bloom (Copps Island Oysters) and butcher Paul Nessel (well known from his Craft Butchery days across Riverside Avenue).
Stephanie calls Saugatuck Provisions “a new concept offering customers a curated selection of the very best ingredients from the land, sea and grocery, enabling guests to create beautiful restaurant quality meals at home.”
Back in the day, women accused of witchcraft would be thrown into water. If they sank, they were innocent. If they stayed on the surface, they were guilty.
Looks like we had a couple of real witches in the water off Compo Beach yesterday!
(Photo/Karen Como)
Meanwhile, few hours later, and a few yards away, there was this:
“06880” was honored this summer to tell the story of Wynston Browne. The non-speaking autistic Staples High School student had made spectacular progress in just a few months, using a spelling board — a low-tech communication device.
Three months later, Wynston continues his astonishing growth. Now Westport Lifestyle magazine has taken notice.
For the latest on Wynston, click here. It should be must-reading for everyone, everywhere.
Wynston Browne and his communication partner, Elisa Feinman, He chatted with customers at The Porch.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA Water Rats swim team are winners in the pool.
And out of it too.
This Saturday (November 5, 8 a.m. to noon), they’ll help neighbors in need. The Water Rats are sponsoring a food drive (plus non-perishable items) for the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.
the Water Rats Swim Team in their food drive benefiting the Bridgeport Rescue Mission. The need is great: Pantry requests are double what they were last year.
You don’t even have to get out of your car. Just pull into the YMCA loop, and swimmers will take your donations. See below for suggested items.
This week’s Jazz at the Post show is “the most ambitious program so far” at the VFW location (Thursday, November 3, 465 Riverside Avenue; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.).
Grammy nominees Antonio Hart and Mike Mossman join veteran jazz warriors and recording artists pianist David Morgan, Ron Carter’s personal bassist Boots Maleson, drum master Tim Horner and the “Jazz Rabbi,” saxophonist Greg Wall, for 2 sets of jazz classics. Sextet arrangements are by Michael Mossman.
The repertoire features tunes by Miles Davis, Jimmy Heath, Duke Ellington and Duke Jordan.
Reservations are strongly suggested: Jazzatthepost@gmail.com
Antonio Hart
===============================================
This year’s fall foliage is the finest in years. Consider this Halloween-colored beauty on Cross Highway — perfect for today’s post-Halloween “Westport … Naturally feature:
Actually, it’s great. And exciting. empowering, even life-changing.
They’re using 2 new ropes courses. They climb, swing, and get far beyond their comfort zones.
Teenagers support, encourage and motivate each other to heights — both physical and mental — they never thought they could achieve.
For years, the physical education department taught cooperative games to sophomores. But without much perceived risk, most attempts to collaborate and problem-solve together fell flat.
High ropes and harnesses were the answer.
Students on Staples High School’s outdoor high ropes course — and their supporters on the ground. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Scarice)
Funds came from a $63,000 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant to schools, to use during and after COVID for the social development of students.
Townwide physical education coordinator Christine Wanner made the proposal. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and the Board of Education were fully supportive. The project aligns with the Westport Public Schools’ holistic approach to social emotional learning, mental health and wellness.
The ropes were installed outdoors in a now-unused community garden, and in the indoor fieldhouse.
There are 2 elements: low (without harnesses), and high ones (with them).
Physical education teacher Jeff Doornweerd instructs students in the fieldhouse …
Despite the perceived danger, the ropes elements are much safer than most other physical activities.
“Everything is double- and triple-checked, and backed up,” notes Jeff Doornweerd, a phys. ed. instructor who was instrumental in developing the course.
“Kids approach this with some nerves. They’re very careful.”
Before anyone climbs, student belayers ask: “How are you feeling? How can we support you?”
Many teens have never had to answer those questions, Doornweerd explains. They say honestly: “I’m worried about one certain point. Can you be extra careful there?”
Instructors underwent rigorous training, in Vermont.
… and 2 then climb, helping each other, to the ceiling. (PHotos/Phoebe Miller and Caroline Zajac for Inklings)
The course is “not really about how good you are at climbing ropes,” Doornweerd says. “It’s about how and why you get out of your comfort zone. We spend a lot of time in class talking about that.”
No one is forced to climb. Eventually, most do.
They feel “ecstatic” afterward, Doornweerd says. And that feeling of taking a risk, and overcoming the fear of failure, can stay with them far in the future, in the classroom, the workplace and home.
One athlete — who otherwise would excel in phys. ed. — was extremely hesitant. He changed his mind when he saw how powerfully excited everyone else was.
As the class debriefed, he said, “The only reason I’m telling you this is because I want other people to know and feel the same.”
Up, up and away! (Photo courtesy of Thomas Scarice)
Though the ropes were originally planned for sophomore classes only, Doornweerd worked it into the Bridge program, an academic support initiative that includes 9th graders.
Two weeks ago, Staples went into full lockdown after a bomb threat. That afternoon, teachers focused on students’ emotional needs.
Doornweerd did some leadup activities with his Bridge group, then took them to the ropes course.
As they climbed, teachers leading their own classes on walks outside stopped to watch.
“Students were cheering for freshmen they didn’t know,” Doornweerd says with pride. “It was so powerful. Those kids will never forget that day.”
The phys. ed. instructor is not stopping there.
“Now that it’s here, there are so many ways to utilize this,” Doornweerd says.
“Sports teams — even other groups — can enhance team-building. I can see community events happening too.”
Soon perhaps, many more Westporters will enjoy getting high at Staples.
(If you liked this story, and our continuing coverage of Westport schools, please click here to support “06880.”)
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