Tag Archives: Connecticut History Day

Roundup: Daylight Saving Time Tonight! Also: History Day, Jeff White, Max Orland …

Posted on March 7, 2026 | 3 comments

Tonight, we take a big step on our long slog toward spring.

Daylight Savings Time returns! Remember to turn your clocks ahead 1 hour.

The bad news is: We lose an hour of sleep.

The good news: It won’t be dark at 6 p.m. anymore.

At least, not for another 8 months.

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The judges have ruled, on the Connecticut History Day regional contest.

We’re not sure if these results are historic. But Westport students did very, very well.

Students are encouraged to explore any aspect of history, from local to international. They can work individually or in groups, on topics of their choice. This year’s theme was “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.”

They present projects in one of 5 categories: exhibits, documentaries, websites, papers or performances.

Winners (below) advance to the state competition in May. First and second place finishers there move on to represent Connecticut at the national contest in Maryland.

Staples High School winners include:

1st Place

Noah Bruno (“NASA: How a Space Agency Drove Civil Rights Reforms” — individual documentary)

2nd Place

Alexandra Ben (“Marian Anderson: A Voice That Challenged a Nation” — paper)

Ruby Boroujerdi, Carol Berger, Madeleine Stiber (“Technicolor in ‘The Wizard of Oz’: Revolutionizing the Standards of Cinema” — group exhibit)

Luca Ghedini, Pranav Tamilselvan (“Igniting History: How Gunpowder Triggered a Global Transformation — group documentary)

Cameryn Brink (“We Are Columbine: How Normalized Deviance in Gun Violence has Undermined Effective Gun Reform in School Shootings” — individual website)

3rd Place

Charlotte Hoke, Cali Kingsley (“Progression Toward Gender Equality: Violence Against Women’s Act” — group exhibit)

Serena Goldfarb (“Equality Over Injustice: How Title IX Shaped Female Athletics” — individual documentary)

Honorable Mention

Madelynn Flom, Lilly Ford, Brooklynn Crawford (“The Degree that Sparked Revolution an the Woman Behind It: Elizabeth Blackwell” — group exhibit)

Alexandra Gottlieb (“Southbury vs. Fascism: When a Small Town Took a Stand” — individual documentary)

Graham Lewis, Akshay Rao, Ryan Asiel (“Revolution on the Fairway” — group documentary)

Middle school winners include:

1st Place

Mia Amin, Coleytown (“A Revolution in Medicine: How the Spanish Flu Led to Reform in American Public Health” — paper)

Henry Bach (“The Race to Discover DNA an the Dark Side of Winning” — individual exhibit)

Emily Bernier, Emmeline Cutler, Coleytown (“Lewis Hine and Adding Awareness to Child Labor” — group documentary)

Brandon Sheefel, Olivia Duran, Coleytown (“1810 May Revolution, Voice of the Cabildo” — group performance)

2nd Place

Matilda Jones, Nora Lipschutz, Coleytown (“The Legacy of Lewis Hine” — group exhibit)

Madyan Hemdan, Bedford (“The Radium Girls: Shining a Light on Injustice” — individual documentary

Leanne Wong, Bedford (“The Needle That Saved Millions: The Eradication of Smallpox” — individual website)

Brooklynn Flom, Johanna Lawton, Bedford (“Angel of the Battlefield” — group website)

3rd Place

Sofia Farquhar, Bedford (“The Radium Girls” — individual exhibit)

Honorable Mention

James Ben, Bedford (“Truman vs. McArthur: The Firing That Changed History” — individual exhibit)

Gemma Porrino, Charlotte Carr, Bedford (“A Day to Remember: The Attacks on 9/11” — group exhibit)

Dexter Abrams, Rhys Livingston, Coleytown (“The Reform on Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy” — group documentary)

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Every Thursday, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston host an interesting speaker.

Thursday’s was particularly insightful. Jeff White — a longtime Westporter, former CFO of Major League Baseball, executive vice president of the New York Mets and CFO of CBS News — offered a frank assessment of MLB”s future.

His topics ranged from gambling risks and a looming labor war, to international expansion.

White called legalized sports betting “an accident waiting to happen,” despite the advertising revenue flowing in. He noted that the people most affected by a work stoppage would be the the 500 to 1,000 game day workers, and 400 to 600 full-time staffers at each club.

And he spoke about his vision to bring the professional leagues of Japan, Taiwan and South Korea into an expanded MLB postseason (a true “World Series”).

Jeff White, at the Y’s Men meeting.

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Staples High School 2006 graduate Max Orland has a speech and language disability.

That has not stopped him from achieving many of his dreams.

His career includes positions with the New York Mets, US Open (center court, for Federer and Serena Williams), Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Northeastern University, and Winged Foot and Tiburon golf clubs, plus retail experience (with many awards) at Legends @ Yankee Stadium, J. Crew, Under Armour, Vineyard Vines and Nike.

Most recently, the University of Delaware sport management graduate has been involved with the Miami Heat, and Special Olympics Florida

He writes: “No one can truly embody how I feel living with my personal challenges in speech and language, but moments like this remind me why it’s so important to keep getting involved, whether through work or in the community.

“Being featured on Heat TV wasn’t just about me. It was about the voice I share and what I represent as part of the Miami HEAT organization, and as an advocate for others. I will keep putting myself out there to speak on the importance of inclusive education and inclusion in the workplace, and to be a face for those who may need one when opportunities arise.

“My first year with the Heat has been about more than just a job. It’s about impact and the drive to help make the world a better place. I never take these opportunities for granted, and will continue striving to create meaningful change.”

Click here or below for a video, including words from Max.

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After more than 25, Jane Ross,  founder and executive director of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities — retired yesterday.

Since launching the non-profit — which serves many Westport families — in 2000, Ross has helped transform the landscape for families raising children with learning and attention challenges.

At a time when parents often felt isolated and unsure where to turn, she helped provide information, guidance, and a community of supportive families.

Click here for more information on Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities.

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We mentioned the advent of spring in the first item (Daylight Saving Time).

Here’s another sign: today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.

(Photo/Liza Emilio)

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And finally … one more reminder to turn those clocks ahead tonight!

(Speaking of which: This is as good a “time” as any to show your support for “06880.” Please click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Bird Flu Followup, Final Winter Farmers’ Market, Paella At Basso …

Posted on March 12, 2025 | 2 comments

After reading yesterday’s “06880” story on bird flu in Westport, a reader noted that the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection does not cite any cases in Westport.

Peter Reid — the town’s animal control officer, who provided much of the information to “06880” — says: “I informed DEEP wildlife division in February that we were seeing high goose mortality in Westport. They told me they were aware that avian flu is afflicting geese in the state, and would not be testing any additional specimens.

“I think the lack of confirmed cases in the statistics cited by the ‘06880’ reader simply indicates that no test was conducted on a carcass sourced from Westport.

“DEEP is well aware of the presence of avian flu in the state, and has noted it on their websites. However, that agency likely does not have the budget to test every bird. (Necropsies can cost several hundred dollars per bird).

“Absent a positive test result, and any other convincing explanation for the high rate of bird deaths, I think we have to consider it likely that avian flu is striking birds in Westport.

“Geese fly where they will, and do not recognize our political boundaries, so some will inevitably land in Westport. So far a relatively small percentage of geese have been infected. These are the carcasses people are seeing.

“In the past few weeks we are also noting high mortality in hawks, crows and vultures, the species most likely to scavenge the carcasses of dead geese. These birds are exhibiting the same neurological distress we saw in the infected geese, and mortality is close to 100% in infected birds.

“I would stress that we have not seen any cases in the songbird population, or received any reports from elsewhere in the state, so leaving feeders up should be fine for now.

“Avian flus have hit this area before, and in the past these flu events seem to subside by mid-summer.”

Dead birds, in Ned Dimes Marina.

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One more sign that spring is near: Tomorrow’s Westport Farmers’ Market is the last of the winter.

After the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. event at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, the farmers take a break. The outdoor market opens May 8.

Executive director Lori Cochran has a special message for all. She says:

“As we look back with gratitude for those that paved the way for this local food community, I am reminded of the importance in remembering what we have been taught — what we have learned.

“Selma Miriam of Bloodroot Restaurant, who recently passed away, comes to mind. Selma and Noel have supported this market since it opened 17 years ago. Their restaurant of 48 years buys from this market weekly.

“Selma has held me to task since the day we met. Her strength was palatable — she was mighty. Her love for growers and her community was heartfelt — she showed it with ease and passion. Her genuineness and commitment to her beliefs were and will remain inspiring. Selma will be missed by this market, this community and me.

“Thank you Selma, for the many gifts you shared with WFM.”

Selma Miriam: Westport Farmers’ Market friend.

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The Grand List is out. Got a gripe?

The Board of Assessment Appeals meets Wednesday, March 19, (7 p.m., Town Hall green room, downstairs) to hear from taxpayers who are “aggrieved by the doings of the assessor on the Grand List of October 1, 2024, and the 2023 Supplemental Motor Vehicle list.”

Residents should bring supporting documents to the session.

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Coming up at Wakeman Town Farm:

Cocktails and dinner fundraiser for Altadena Girls (program for teenagers affected by the Los Angeles wildfires): March 20, 7 p.m.; $250; click here for details.

“Goat togethers”: Chances for families and small groups to cuddle with newborn goats (“kids with kids”); 30-minute sessions, $20; click here for details.

Spring break 1-hour farm playdates: March 14 and 15, 10 a.m.; ages 1-3; click here for details.

Wakeman Town Farm goats. (Photo/Michelle Cardello)

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Sure, you order paella. But can you make it?

Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar can help. On Sunday, March 23 (12:30 p.m.), chef Renato Donzelli offers a “paella-making showcase.”

Attendees will learn the history of paella; how to select tools, pan and rice; the “secret ingredient,” and (of course) how to cook it.

The $130 ticket includes a course of traditional Spanish tapas, wine, printed materials — and paella. Click here to register, and for more information.3333

Paella!

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Students from Staples High School, and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools, didn’t just do well at the recent Connecticut History Day competition.

They crushed it.

Dozens of Westport students submitted entries that focused on this year’s theme, “Rights and Responsibilities in History.”

Middle school students placing in the top 3 in various categories, advancing to the statewide competition, include:

  • Zayd Hemdan (“Harvey Milk: A Voice for Equality, A Responsibility for Change”)
  • Avery Hand (“The Scopes Trial: Rights and Responsibilities in Education”
  • Hanna Calandro (“Richard Nixon and the Watergate Scandal”)
  • Hugh Devine and Arjun Aujla (“Clay vs. USA”)
  • Serena Beitel and Charlotte Worraker (“FDR and the Four Freedoms Speech”)
  • Zoe Abrams (“How Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Advanced Womens’ Rights in the Workplace”)
  • Penelope Whitbourne (“Rebel, Rebel: David Bowie and the First Amendment”)
  • Ashley Charise, Maia Steigler, Janaki Velugula (“1970 Kent State Shooting and the Effect on America”)
  • Paige Turnbull, Reiko Nagata, Charlotte Carkey (Junior Individual Website)
  • Evie Sloan (“Order 9066, Why it Happened, Who it affected, and What it Impacted”)

Staples High School students advancing to the state competition include:

  • Amelia Berkowitz, Jori Altman (“The White Rose: How Student Activists Redefined Nonviolent Youth Resistance”)
  •  Jessica Anderson, Siri Klassen, Maddie Sine (“COINTELPRO: The FBI’s Hidden Agenda”)
  • Brendan Whitbourne (“WWII and the Birth of Human Rights”)
  • Juliet Cutler, Gavin Jamali (“Voices of Empowerment: Women’s Roles, Rights, and Responsibilities in the Harlem Renaissance”)
  • Sam Viner, Emm Himes, Ethan Selva (“Stepping Up to the Plate: Jackie Robinson’s Impact in the Fight for Civil Rights”)

Hugh Devine and Arjun Aujla, with their medals.

History Day winners.

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This month’s Westport Book Shop guest exhibitors are students.

Barbara Silk, Angelina Wu, Frankie Gray, Agnes Paulsson, Paula Fleming and Cynthia Ellis all study with instructor Connie Manna.

A reception is set for March 19 (6 p.m.). The exhibit will be up all month.

March art exhibit, at Westport Book Shop.

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More signs of spring, in our “Westport … Naturally” feature: these crocuses, in Elizabeth Levey’s yard near Longshore.

(Photo/Elizabeth Levey)

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to James Taylor!

(You’ve got a friend in “06880.” We’re here for you, 24/7/365. We hope you’ll be a good friend to us, too. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: State History Day Winners, Post-High School Options, Shred Day …

Posted on May 7, 2024 | 1 comment

Westport kids do know much about history.

After qualifying at the regional competition in early March, students from Staples High School, and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools competed Saturday in the State History Day Contest at Central Connecticut State University.

Three projects entered by Staples sophomores placed first or second in their categories. They advance to the national contest at the University of Maryland next month.

Zara Saliba, Uma Choudhury and Caroline Banks won in the Senior Group Exhibits category with their project, “A Turning Point in Culture: The Immoral Origin and the Immortal Legacy of HeLa Cells.”

Julien McMahon placed first in the Senior Individual Website group for his entry, “The Shot that Echoed Across the World: The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.”

Sienna Wearsch and Chloe Jordan took second in the Senior Group Performance category for “Beyond the Boundaries of the Human and Feminist World.”

Bedford’s Junior Group Documentary first-place winners were Lev Pitterbarg, Oliver Sunderji and Zayn Headman for their work, “Harlem’s Golden Age: Revolution and Rebirth.”

And Coleytown’s Alex Sheefel snagged a gold (Junior Individual Exhibit) for “Nunca Mas: Grandmothers of Change.”

Congratulations to all — and good luck at Nationals!

From left: Zara Saliba, Uma Choudhury and Caroline Banks, state History Day winners.

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Speaking of education: There are plenty of possibilities after high school that do not involve a 4-year college.

Next Tuesday (May 14, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library), the Staples Counseling Department sponsors “Finding Your Path: Exploring Post-High School Options.” It is open to all students and families — not just those at Staples.

This evening includes a short panel presentation on the military, community college, vocational school and other programs. Attendees can then meet and talk with the panelists, and graduates of those programs.

The military is an important post-high school option.

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Everyone’s got documents to shred. And who doesn’t want to support cancer research?

Both come together this Saturday (May 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., William Raveis Real Estate, 47 Riverside Avenue).

Raveis is sponsoring “Shred it for Cancer Research.” Your stuff will be shredded as you watch. You don’t even have to leave your car.

There’s a suggested donation of $10 per box or shopping bag, $20 for a large garbage bag (cash, check, credit card of Venmo).

100% of every donation benefits the William Raveis Charitable Fund, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

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Next Monday (May 13, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) is a red letter day: the Westport Woman’s Club’s first blood drive.

Donors must register ahead of time. Click here, then click “Westport Woman’s Club.”

Need an extra incentive? They offer fresh-baked cookies!

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When Diana Sussman’s children graduated from Staples High School, she became a writer.

Her first middle-grade novel, “The Neighbors’ Secret,” will be published May 21.

It’s about a girl, her neighbors whom she thinks are Russian spies, her best friend and a boy she likes. It’s a mystery tale about kids and espionage.

Diana did extensive research on spies and the FBI — and her experiences as an attorney representing clients who were potential witnesses in FBI investigations.

Click here to order, and for more information.

Diana Sussman, and her young adult novel.

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Every Thursday is special at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: It’s “Jazz at the Post,” with an all-star selection of great musicians.

But this Thursday (May 9) is extra special. That’s JazzFC’s annual “Blow-Out Bash” fundraiser. Over 20 stellar performers are already confirmed — and donating their talents. The show runs from 7 to 11 p.m.

Paul Bollenback, Michael Mossman, Melissa Newman, Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, Janice Friedman head the long list. Bridgeport’s Keys Music Jazz Ensemble opens the concert.

All proceeds benefit JazzFC’s educational clinics for students from Westport to Bridgeport, the JazzFC Scholarship Fund, outreach concerts to seniors and other underserved groups, and weekly concerts in Westport.

Click here for a $100 ticket; dinner is included.

Interested in music only, for $65? Email your name, number of tickets requested, and cell phone number to JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

 

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Kerri Rosenthal holds a special pre-Mother’s Day event this Thursday (May 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

They’ll host the Wild Iris Flower truck, for attendees to build their own floral bouquets.

There’s a pop-up too from Encirckled Jewelry, showcasing pieces designed by Westporter Kate Freeman.

Indoors, there’s a special gift with any purchase.

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Westport leads the state in Tesla registrations.

Not per capita — the actual number.

Here’s one reason why. A homeowner near downtown has 4 cars. Three are Teslas (including one new Cybertruck).

Even the license plates pay homage to the brand.

One says “LUVMYY” (Love my Model Y). Another reads “CYBERTRX” (though it has not yet been transferred to the actual truck).

For good measure, there’s a SpaceX insignia on the sedan.

This guy is a true Elon Musk fan.

Teslas galore.

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Ann Matlow died yesterday at NYU Langone’s Tisch Hospital in New York, with her husband David by her side. The cause was complications associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. She was 77.

She was born in New York City. As an infant her parents moved to California. She lived most of the time in Stockton.

A graduate of Occidental College and Fordham Law School, Ann enjoyed a 30-year career as a corporate and immigration attorney, retiring in 2006 as partner in the Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy global immigration firm.

Her years at Occidental greatly influenced her life. For her 35 years as secretary of the Class of 1968, she was recognized in 2023 by the 50-year Club as the outstanding alumna for her long service to the institution.

Living in both Westport and Manhattan, she was active in social and community organizations. She enjoyed the arts and international travel, including studies each summer for the past 15 years at Cambridge University.

Ann is survived by David , her husband of 34 years; her brother John La Rue (Dianne) of Watsonville, California; half-brothers Robert La Rue (Teri) of Linden, California and Knox La Rue, Jr. of Stockton; cousins Frank Bailey and Suzanne Henderson of Fresno; step-daughter Laura Wong-Pan (Ray) of Gardiner, New York; step-son Jeff Matlow (Catherine) of Los Angeles, and granddaughters Emily and Samantha Wong-Pan of Gardiner, and Adelaide Griffin-Matlow of Los Angeles.

A celebration of her life will be announced by the family in the future.

Ann Matlow

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Burton Orland, died unexpectedly at his Westport home on Sunday. He was 87.

The Bronx native graduated from Erasmus Hall High School, and earned a bachelor of science degree in pharmacy from Columbia University.

For 17 years he was the director of pharmacy and strategic planning at the Fallon Clinic in Worcester. He then served in executive roles in managed care organizations including New York Life, Harvard Pilgrim and United Healthcare. He was a pioneer in the managed care pharmacy industry, and nationally recognized for his contributions.

Burt was an avid fan of professional sports, particularly the New York Rangers. He loved theatrical and musical performances, and was a World War II history buff. He was a Mason and lifetime member of Level Lodge in Worcester, as well as a member of the Shriners.

His family says, “He was known by all for his kind, caring, selfless personality and especially for his infectious humor. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word. His favorite childhood memories were days spent at Camp Powhatan in Otisville, Maine where he won Camper of the Year.’ More than all his professional accomplishments, he valued and cherished his family who adored him beyond words.”

Burt is survived by his wife of 44 years, Carole; children Wendy (Bill Trotta) of Paxton, Massachusetts; Michael of Studio City, California; David (Sandy) of Manhasset Hills, New York; Stefani and Mark Silverstein of Westport, and Max of Westport, and grandchildren Allie and Andrew Trotta, Sabrina Malchodi, Tanya Striffler, Jared and Jason Orland, and Cyrus and Chloe Silverstein.

Funeral services will be held today (Tuesday, May 7, 1 p.m., Temple Israel; click here for the livestream). Interment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery. Shiva will be observed at the home of Stefani and Mark Silverstein (166 Cross Highway) today and Wednesday (5:30 p.m.); Thursday, May 9 (6:30 p.m.); Friday, May 10 (1 to 5 p.m.), and Saturday, May 11 (6:30 p.m.)

To share a condolence message, click here. Memorial contributions may be made to Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to Carline Smith and Dr. Warren Steinberg for their kind and compassionate care.

Burt Orland

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Today’s beautiful “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Compo Hill:

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … on this date in 1824, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony premiered in Vienna. Click here for a fascinating story on the great composer, this work, and his deafness.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world. But we can’t do it without readers like you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Cava, Shred, ARPA …

Posted on May 10, 2023 | 1 comment

Yesterday, “06880” introduced The Blondinit. The Israeli restaurant opens this summer in the former Church Lane space of Manna Toast.

It’s not the only new place with cuisine from that part of the world.

Cava will take over the newly remodeled spot next to Westport Hardware, across from Fresh Market.

As first reported on Westport Journal, it’s a national fast food chain with over 100 outlets. Among them: New York, Westchester and Greenwich.

The menu includes pitas (crispy falafel, spicy chicken and avocado, spicy lamb meatball and Greek chicken), and salad bowls (spicy chicken, zesty falafel, lemon chicken, harissa avocado, lentil avocado, tahini caesar and more).

3 choices, from the online menu.

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Need documents or other stuff shredded? Want to support cancer research?

You can do both at once this Saturday (May 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., William Raveis rear parking lot, 47 Riverside Avenue).

The real estate firm is sponsoring another “Shred It for Cancer Research” event.

The suggested donation is $10 per box or large shopping bag; $20 per large garbage bag (cash or check).

Staples do not need to be removed. You can watch the shredding  happen — without even getting out of your car.

100% of every donation benefits the William Raveis Charitable Fund, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

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Quote of the Day:

“Part of me was obviously happy that Donald Trump was not branded a rapist.” — Joseph Tacopina, the former president’s lawyer and a Westport resident, after a jury found his client liable for the sexual abuse and defamation of E. Jean Carroll. She was awarded $5 million in damages.

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This week’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast features 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor, with details on how American Rescue Plan Act money is being used to deliver improvements in many areas of Weston.

It covers lots of areas, and answers many questions. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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Much of the Greens Farms Association’s work involves zoning.

So the guest speaker for their annual meeting (May 18, 7 p.m., Green’s Farms Church) makes a lot of sense.

Danielle Dobin, chair of the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission, will discuss that topic, including affordable housing, upcoming developments and more.

The meeting includes a recap of the Association’s 2022 activities, and a look ahead to the coming year. Non-members are welcome.

Green’s Farms Church — one of the icons of the neighborhood — is the site of the Greens Farms Association’s annual meeting.

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Luisa Francoeur is downsizing from the Westport home she grew up in, and lived in for many years.

On her mantel sits her late husband Jim Goodrich’s model of a schooner. It’s very handsome — and large.

She would like to sell it for $300 to someone who can come take it away (without breaking it).

It is 45 inches from the tip of the bowsprit to the end of the boom, and 8 1/2 inches from the deck to the bottom of the keel.

If interested, email nutmeg5@optonline.net.

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Unlike Sam Cooke, Westport students do know much about history.

Last Saturday was Connecticut History Day — the state-level part of a national competition. The them was “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.”

Seven teams from Staples High School (Senior Division) and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools (Junior Division) finished in the top 3 in their categories. There were also 2 special prize winners.

The Staples winners are:

1st place, Individual Performance:  Camille Mergenthaler (“Food Network; Pioneering Opportunities for Women in the Culinary Industry”).

2nd place, Individual Exhibit: Kate Rodriguez (“The Boom Heard ‘Round the World: The Development and Deployment of the Atomic Bomb”).

2nd place, Group Exhibit: Perrin Root, Oliver Oren, Evan Wallitt, Claudia Trinchi (“Laying Down Frontiers of the Future: The Transcontinental Railroad’s Economic and Cultural Influence”).

3rd place, Group Website: Levi Nested, Elliott Galina, Jake Wadley, William Fleming (“From TV Dinners to Fast Food Nation: The Cultural Impact of Processed Foods in America”).

Special prizes, Outstanding Entry Related to Civics, Government or Citizenship: Liam Furlong (“Ulysses S. Grant and His Effect on the Civil Rights Movement of the 1800s”).

Special prize, Outstanding Entry in American Legal History: Katherine Fitzgerald, Lola Lamensdorft, Rhiya Anand, Sophie Cochran (“Margaret Sanger: The Creation of Birth Control”).

The Bedford winners are:

1st place, Group Documentary: Siri Klassen, Gargi Karve, Elise Yan (“From the Farmland to the Runway: How Denim Revolutionized the
Fashion Industry Through Affordability and Transformative Styles”)

2nd place, Papers: Blake Carson (“An Unexpected Frontier: How the Civil War Exposed Medical Shortfalls and Prompted Change”).

The Coleytown Winners are:

2nd place, Individual Website: Jonah Frey (“How Amateur Radio Changed the Nation”),

F0r more information on Connecticut History Day, click here. For a list of all winners, click here.

From left: Evan Wallitt, Perrin Root, Oliver Oren in front of their Transcontinental Railroad project.

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On Monday, Morgan Veltri spotted a great egret eating fish in the water. Here’s the very cool, binocular-focused “Westport … Naturally” that followed.

(Photo/Morgan Veltri)

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And finally … sure, a schooner has 2 masts, a sloop only 1. But there are no schooner songs, so this will have to do:

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