Roundup: Viet Vets, Swimming, Sports …

Posted on November 27, 2021 | 5 comments

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It may have been lost in the run-up to Thanksgiving.

It shouldn’t be.

Earlier this week, John Brandt moderated a fascinating discussion with 4 Vietnam War veterans. Part of the Westport Library’s Oral History Project, it delved deep into the experiences of the quartet — all Westporters — and what it all means today.

Panelists included retired Army veterans Capt. Jay Dirnberger, Sgt. Preston Koster, Sgt. Bud Siegel, and retired Navy Lt. JG Tucker Mays. Click below to watch.

Missed it? No problem. Click below to watch.

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The broken record of Staples High School swim and dive team broken records continues.

The girls finished their season in style last weekend, with 4 state open record- breaking performances.

Freshman Annam Olasewere once again dominated the 50 and 100 yard freestyle events, with state open record times of 22.58 and 50.21. The 200 free relay team of Jessica Qi, Ella Alpert, Ayaan Olasewere and Annam Olasewere recorded a record 1:35.94. In addition, their record-breaking 3:27.46 in the 400 free relay qualifies them for All-American status.

Other outstanding swims came from Jessica Qi (4th in the 100 free, 8th in the 200 free). Divers Kate Whittaker and Mia Guster finished 13th and 17th respectively. Freshman Ayaan Olasewere was 12th in the 50 free and 13th in the 100 free, while senior captain Ella Alpert placed 10th in the 100 fly.

From left: Annam Olasewere, Jessica Qi, Ella Alpertm Ayaan Olasewere.

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Speaking of sports: A new tradition began on Thanksgiving Day.

A bunch of fathers — all relatively new to Westport — reserved PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary School for the first-ever “Westport Dadz Turkey Bowl.”

Cones were set, football flags arranged, and teams picked. A good time was had by all. Even a few hamstring pulls could not keep these guys from smiling, and enjoying the rest of their holiday weekend.

(Photo/Josh Stern)

Meanwhile, a much older tradition — the Staples boys soccer Turkey Bowl — took place at Wakeman Field.

Over 60 current and past players worked up an appetite. There were alumni from as far as California and Texas, and as far back as Staples’ Class of 1975. Guys who just finished their college season showed their stuff. So did everyone else.

There were plenty of alumni spectators too. And the weather was perfect too.

The 2021 Staples soccer Turkey Bowl. (Photo/Barry Guiduli)

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Longtime Westporter Vermelle Miro died recently, at 88. Her funeral is set for today (Saturday, November 27, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church).

The Greenwich native had a variety of hobbies, interests and careers. She worked at Vogue magazine before opening the Westport Country Day Preschool in the 1970s.

“Mel” became a realtor in Westport in the 1980s, and enjoyed a successful career until she retired close to 40 years later.

She was a member of the Westport Young Woman’s League and Westport Rotary Club, along with many other civic groups.

Mel traveled around the world, learning about different cultures and viewing famous pieces of art. She was a talented artist as well.

Her family says, “Mel had a unique ability to connect with people on a deep level, providing a safe haven for her community of friends and acquaintances. She was a magnet to others, always willing to lend an ear to those who needed it. But er greatest joy came from her children and grandchildren.”

Mel is survived by her children, Donald (Kim Healy); son-in-law Chris Healy; grandchildren Ryan, Tyler and Brittany Healy, and grandson-in-law Steve Geiges. She was predeceased by her husband Donald Miro and her long-time partner, Patrick Mitchell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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On this holiday weekend — when all of us are stuffed — photographer Lou Weinberg says of this “Westport … Naturally” photo from Lansdowne Condominiums: “Hey, everybody’s gotta eat.”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … Stephen Sondheim died yesterday, in Litchfield County. The legendary Broadway composer was 91.

The New York Times calls him an “intellectually rigorous artist who perpetually sought new creative paths … the theater’s most revered and influential composer-lyricist of the last half of the 20th century, if not its most popular.” Click here for Sondheim’s full obituary.

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Posted in History, Library, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS

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Daniel Burgin’s Cinema Pancakes

Posted on November 27, 2021 | 5 comments

For nearly 20 years, A Better Chance of Westport has provided educational opportunities to academically gifted, highly motivated young men of color.

Dozens of scholars from across the country have thrived at Staples — in the classroom, and outside.

Take Daniel Burgin.

Daniel Burgin

Though not part of Glendarcy House this year due to COVID, the Brooklyn native jumped into Staples life starting early in his freshman year. He managed the football and boys lacrosse teams, and was a production assistant with Staples Players.

As a sophomore he took photos for football, girls basketball and indoor track. He played volleyball, and followed his interests in film and martial arts.

A Narrative Film course changed his career plans. Daniel had always dreamed of being an FBI agent, or working in law enforcement. But that Staples class opened a whole new world: movie-making.

He shot a music video in Westport. Then he made a short film. “It was not great,” he admits. “But it was definitely a learning  experience.”

He expanded his sports photography into videography: football, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, softball and water polo.

A photo of the Staples High School rugby team, by Daniel Burgin.

Then COVID struck. The ABC scholars went home. For months, school was online.

Daniel used the time to bring another interest — fashion — to a new level. He’s started a clothing line.

Cinema Pancakes launched Monday. It’s another way to expand his creative reach — and raise money for his film projects.

Daniel is selling pullovers, sweatshirts, hoodies, bucket hats, beanies, stickers and more.

In the works: customizable sports jerseys and pants.

Daniel designed all the clothing. Many ideas came while walking around  Westport. “It looks good, feels good, and it’s what people enjoy,” he says.

He found a manufacturer, created mockups, and is marketing the site himself. The initial response has been great, he says.

Screenshot of some of Daniel Burgin’s Creative Pancakes offerings.

Though Daniel is not at Staples this year, he remains very connected to this town.

“Westport has become home for me,” he says. “I’ve created a life there. It’s hard to understand what it’s like being an ABC student, having an experience away from home.

“The community is so generous, providing ABC the chance for a great education, and making beautiful memories, at Staples and around town.

“I am grateful to Westport. I wouldn’t have started what I’ve done if I hadn’t been there.”

(Click here to see Daniel Burgin’s clothing line. Click here for his photography site.)

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Posted in Education, Local business, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Pic Of The Day #1683

Posted on November 26, 2021 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #1683

Downtown was busy today — the famous “Black Friday.” Last night was quieter: Just a few folks took a post-turkey stroll. (Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)

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Roundup: Lamont Shops, Squash Studies …

Posted on November 26, 2021 | 1 comment

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The borders of State Representative Jonathan Steinberg’s 136th District have shifted slightly, though it still includes only Westport. He’s lost some area in the western part of town, and gained some voters in the east — all the way to the Fairfield town line.

State Representative Stephanie Thomas’ Norwalk-based 143rd District has changed significantly. She gained some additional voters in Westport and a large number of new voters in Norwalk. They replace Wilton, which has become an entirely new district.

(For more in-depth information on redistricting, click here, here, here and here. Hat tip: Peter Gold

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The other day, Governor Ned Lamont stopped in downtown Westport.

He — and actress Eva Amurri, who lives a few steps from Main Street — visited local businesses, like Indigo Wellness, Kerri Rosenthal and The Toy Post.

Trailed by a camera crew, they shot a video to promote stores and services like those. Amurri has been a big booster of shopping local.

For Lamont, it was a homecoming of sorts. Years ago, he lived right here in Westport.

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US Squash has honored 13 Staples High School squash team members as Scholar-Athletes. They earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher last year, while competing for the Wreckers.

Congratulations to Zachary Allen, Anna Diorio, Nicky Fabian, Sophie Fridland, Brian Fullenbaum, Joshua Jordan, Tucker Peters, Lorenzo Rinaldi, Ryan Salik, Ben Saxon, Rebecca Schussheim, Eli Shorrock and Lilly Weisz,

Staples squash, in action.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” features one more turkey shot.

Perhaps “shot” is not the best word. At any rate, here are 2 of about 30 turkey vultures perched — a couple of days before Thanksgiving — near Long Lots Road.

(Photo/Brian Schiller)

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And finally … happy 82nd birthday to the terrifically talented Tina Turner!

 

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Friday Flashback #272

Posted on November 26, 2021 | 1 comment

Yesterday marked the second straight Thanksgiving without a traditional community feast.

The decades-long event has had bumps before. When Saugatuck Congregational Church was recovering from a fire, Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church stepped up to host.

Some years there were more than enough volunteers to cook, serve and clean up. Other times, folks did double or triple duty.

But the feast was always there: an in-person affirmation that our town is truly a “community.”

COVID changed the event. This year dinners were delivered to recipients.

They were grateful (and well fed). They gave thanks.

But fingers are crossed that next year, the Thanksgiving Community Feast will be in person once again. Our town would be truly thankful.

A small part of the 2014 Thanksgiving Community Feast. Gatherings like this seem like a page out of the past.

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Candlelight Tickets Available On Wednesday

Posted on November 26, 2021 | Comments Off on Candlelight Tickets Available On Wednesday

Candlelight Concert tickets are always a hot item.

This year, they’ll be blazing.

With current state COVID regulations limiting auditoriums to 50% capacity, just half the number of people will enjoy the Staples High School music department’s annual gift to the town.

The 81st annual Candlelight is set for Friday, December 17 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 18 (3 p.m. and 8 p.m.).

It will also be livestreamed one time only (due to video rights), on December 23.

Tickets for the in-person performance will be available to the public at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 1. Click on www.staplesmusic.org. There is no charge, but there is a maximum of 4 tickets per order.

Concert-goers should arrive at least 45 minutes early, and show their vaccination card or a negative COVID test within the previous 72 hours. Masks are required at all times.

It will be a spectacular show. The choirs and symphonic instrumental ensembles will join forces in traditional Candlelight favorites like “Sing We Noel” and the “Hallelujah Chorus,” plus new-to-Staples numbers like Beethoven’s “Choral Fantasy” and Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival.”

Click here for the full back story on this year’s Candlelight Concert.

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Something New For “Nutcracker”

Posted on November 26, 2021 | Comments Off on Something New For “Nutcracker”

There are many ways to mark the start of the holiday season. “The Nutcracker” is as good as any.

For 4 decades, the Westport Academy of Dance’s ballet has been staged here. The venues have changed — Staples and Weston High Schools, Long Lots and Saugatuck Elementary — but the performances never did. They were always outstanding.

Westport Academy of Dance’s “Nutcracker.”

For the first time this year, the local “Nutrcracker” will have a professional setting worthy of its almost-professional dancers. The 40th annual production is set for Bridgeport’s Klein Memorial Auditorium. Shows are tomorrow (Saturday, November 27, 3 p.m.) and Sunday (November 28 2 p.m.).

“The Nutcracker” is such a tradition that current Westport Academy of Dance owner Nancy Zindell also performed in it — multiple times. So have current Academy teachers Tollie Barrato, Abby Evans and Grace Bergonzi. They were inspired as young dancers; now they’re doing the same for a new generation.

Parents are an integral part of every aspect of the Academy of Dance — including “The Nutcracker.”


*Abby Evans as Sugar Plum, with her dad Bill Evans. He played Drosselmeyer for years.

They, their kids and their kids’ instructors are excited to return to a full, live performance after last year’s’ COVID interruption. For those unable to be at the Klein though, both shows will be livestreamed.

After 40 years — or 129, since Tchaikovsky wrote it in 1892 — there’s still new news about “The Nutcracker.”

(Click here for ticket information. Click here to learn more about the Westport Academy of Dance.)

 

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Pic Of The Day #1682

Posted on November 25, 2021 | 1 comment

Jolantha gives thanks, in Weston (Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Roundup: Black Friday, Fire Department Tree, Cribari Bridge Lighting …

Posted on November 25, 2021 | 5 comments

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First Selectwoman Jen Tooker delivers her first Thanksgiving message to Westport:

“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving, as well as a Happy Hanukkah for those celebrating.

“Westport has much to be thankful for. As we emerge from a global pandemic, we are grateful for our first responders, our town employees and staff, our teachers, colleagues and friends, and the numerous volunteers who gave unselfishly of their time, talents and resources. Most importantly, we are grateful for each other, and how we came together as a community to lift up, to help and to inspire during challenging times. Westporters are truly resilient!

“We are also keenly aware that there are those among us who need additional care and concern, especially during holidays. Theodore Roosevelt said, ‘Let us remember that, as much has been given, much will be expected…and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips and shows itself in deeds.’”

“And so, at this Thanksgiving and for the days to come, I ask that we both reflect and act; to give of ourselves in word and deed; to express our appreciation for all that we do have, and to make simple acts of kindness the norm, not the trend.

“On a personal note, my sincerest hope is that you enjoy your Thanksgiving and upcoming Holidays with friends and families, and that you have the opportunity to be thankful for the simple blessings we all share. Thank you.”

Jen Tooker is thankful to celebrate Thanksgiving with her husband Mo and her father, Bob “Pops” Salmon.

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Just in time for Black Friday, “Finding Westport”‘s Jillian Elder has found local stores offering sales, customer appreciation days and more this weekend.

Click here for her list. If you prefer to shop from home, keep it local! Scroll down on her website for a list of Westport-based Etsy shops.

JL Rocks is one of many local businesses you can find on “Finding Westport.”

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Yesterday morning, the Westport Fire Department helped the Westport Downtown Association put up a Christmas tree at Parker Harding Plaza, across from Starbucks.

Check out the fire extinguisher “present” — and the firefighter’s hat on top!

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Al’s Angels’ annual Cribari Bridge lighting ceremony is tomorrow night (Friday, November 26, 4 to 6:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club).

There’s Santa, cocoa (kids’ and spiked), hot dogs and popcorn. It’s a ticketed event ($20 adults, $10 children — plus an unwrapped toy), with all toys and funds going to (of course) Al’s Angels.

For over 20 years they’ve brought joy to children with life-threatening illnesses (and their families). And for 20 years they’ve kept the Cribari Bridge lit.

Click here for tickets. You can pay at the door too,

Tomorrow’s Cribari Bridge lighting rings in the holiday season. (Photo/January Stewart)

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There’s one more parking space today on Myrtle Avenue.

“Hank the Tank” — the Mercedes sedan that, since summer, sat in front of Town Hall since summer — was trucked away yesterday. He’s been donated to the Fire Department, for use as a training vehicle.

Hank has quite a back story. If you missed it earlier this month on “06880,” click here.

College girls — friends of the owner — say goodbye, moments before Hank the Tank is trucked away. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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Speaking of cars: Traffic has been terrible lately. It’s the holidays. And a paving project on Riverside Avenue by the Cribari Bridge has funneled traffic onto already jammed streets.

This was the scene Thursday night:

(Photo/Jon Dworkow)

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Today, Westporters give thanks for many things. These “Westport … Naturally” featured creatures give thanks that they’re hanging out on Colony Road, not on someone’s carving board.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … I’m old enough to remember that, for my first couple of years at Burr Farms Elementary School right here in Westport, we opened the day by reciting the Lord’s Prayer (!).

In music class, we also sang “We Gather Together” every Thanksgiving — even after the Supreme Court ruled (8 to 1) that prayer and Bible reading were unconstitutional in public schools.

The things you learn when you’re young stay with you forever. I’ve always associated that hymn with Thanksgiving — and I still know all the words.

In fact, it’s one of only two Thanksgiving songs I know. Last year, I featured Arlo Guthrie. This year … well, let us give thanks, and pray.

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Saugatuck, Transportation

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Happy Thanksgiving, 2021

Posted on November 25, 2021 | 23 comments

In 1941, The Saturday Evening Post published Westport artist Stevan Dohanos’ Thanksgiving cover.

A few years later Dohanos produced this illustration, titled simply “Thanksgiving.” The house was a red gingerbread, at 55 Long Lots Road.

That home still stands — though it’s been remodeled. Much else has changed in Westport over the years too.

And much has not.

On this Thanksgiving Day 2021, “06880” wishes all our readers — in this zip code, or far away — a happy, healthy and heartfelt holiday.

As we count our blessings, I’ll start with this:

I am truly grateful for each and every reader. You make our community — online and off — one of the liveliest, most robust, most fulfilling and fun — on earth.

Thank you for all you do, for all of us. Enjoy the day.

And — if you haven’t done it yet — get your vaccine, and booster shot!

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Posted in Looking back, Westport life

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