Tag Archives: George Barrett

Roundup: State Soccer Champs, George Barrett & Brian Keane’s Music, Brian Claar’s Golf …W

Posted on November 17, 2025 | 4 comments

The Staples High School boys soccer team wrote their name into the program’s storied 67-year history book yesterday.

The Wreckers’ convincing 3-0 victory over Greenwich marks their 13th state championship since 1965. They became only the 7th Staples team to win the coveted double: state and FCIAC (league) crowns.

Gabe Duque knocked in Gabe Hellmann’s corner kick in the 15th minute. Dylan Shackelford’s header finished Adriano Carpi’s long free kick 15 minutes later. Adrian Rossoni added the third strike in the second half, from Noah Rossoni.

The win was accomplished with the trademarks coach Liam Witham’s squad has shown all year: great skill on the ball, a variety of offensive threats, airtight defense, high soccer IQ, speed, physicality, tremendous energy, passion and pride.

Congratulations to Westport’s newest champions! They’ve made generations of alumni proud, and inspired new generations of young fans.

The 2025 “LL” (extra large schools) state champs.

Head coach Liam Witham (right) with the trophy. (Photos/John Walker)

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And speaking of state soccer champions: George Barrett (who won those titles at Staples in 1971 and ’72), Brian Keane and a kick-ass band wowed a full Westport Library crowd yesterday.

The Staples High School Class of 1973 and ’71 graduates (respectively) have intriguing musical careers. Barrett has returned to performing and songwriting — his first love — after a long stint as a healthcare executive. Keane is a Grammy-winning producer.

Barrett shared tunes from his recently released album, along with creative covers of popular tunes. His homecoming was a rousing success.

They were joined by — among others — Barrett’s brother Dan, a classically trained cellist, and angel-voiced Sarah Gross.

They played for over 2 hours, following a Q-and-A with longtime music theater director Ben Frimmer.

Barrett — who performed at the Bitter End prior to his Library appearance — and Keane donated all proceeds to the Westport Library. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)

George Barrett (center), Brian Keane (left) and bandmates, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Susan Garment) 

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Brian Claar is perhaps the greatest golfer in Staples High School history.

The 1976 graduate earned PGA Tour Rookie of the Year honors in 1986. In 2006, he became a PGA Tour Champion rules official. He retired last week.

The tour’s social media feeds were filled with praise. “The definition of integrity and organization,” one commenter wrote.

“One true gentleman,” another said. “The tour won’t be the same without you.”

Congratulations, Brian, on your service to your sport — and on your retirement.

Now you’ll have plenty of time to play golf! (Hat tip: Tom Kretsch)

Brian Claar

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Speaking of sports: The Staples boys and girls swimming and diving teams have a new scoreboard.

They say: “We are grateful to the Board of Education, superintendent of schools Tom Scarice, principal Stafford Thomas, athletic director VJ Sarullo, Westport Publici Schools CFO Elio Longo and director of facilities Ted Hunyadi, and girls swim captain’s parent Jodi Harris for their leadership in securing funding.

“This upgrade will greatly improve the quality and reliability of our meets, and it means a great deal to our athletes and coaches. We appreciate your commitment to our program, and your support for our swimmers and community.”

A message on the new scoreboard.

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Sustainable Westport is all about the environment. As part of their work, they advocate for, educate about, and promote recycling.

In all its forms.

This weekend, in conjunction with the Senior Center, they collected medical equipment. It will be passed on to the Wheel It Forward program.

For 2 hours, donors dropped off wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, commodes and more, at the Westport Woman’s Club.

It was used — but still quite usable.

And — in these days of soaring medical expenses — very, very welcome.

A small selection of donated used medical equipment.

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Christian Rinaldi — the Westport teenager who runs CK Mobile Car Detailings, offering superb, attentive and very professional services (washing, polishing exteriors, scrubbing interiors, steam cleaning, shampooing carpets and seats, and more) — has earned raves from customers.

Now he’s offering 25% off, for “06880” readers.

Email ckcardetailings@gmail.com, or text 203-725-4695 — and just mention “06880.”(Click here for the CK Mobile Car Detailings website. Click here for a story on Christian and his business.)

Christian Rinaldi (right) and Kyle Dulak, making another car shine.

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Speaking of cars: Rowene Weems spotted this car at the Post Road West/Wilton Road intersection — and managed to get a great photo of it.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

I’m not sure if the owner will take care of Christian Rinaldi’s mobile detailing offer (item above).

But if he does, Christian will make it look even spiffier than this.

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Yesterday — for the second time in a week — we enjoyed a rainbow over Westport, without rain.

Michael Mossman spotted this one,

(Photo/Michael Mossman

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We’ve featured plenty of trees, filled with autumn foliage, as recent “Westport … Naturally” photos.

This one zooms in on just a couple of them. John Maloney’s shot shows that New England leaves are as pretty up close, as they are in a panorama.

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally … with a nod and a bow to the Staples boys soccer team’s powerful win (story above):

(Another glorious weekend in Westport. As always, you can read all about it — and everything else — here on “06880.” If you enjoy this  hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Sports, Staples HS, Totally random

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Roundup: Kittens, Constitution, Rowing Club …

Posted on November 9, 2025 | 7 comments

Earlier this year, an abandoned tiger-striped cat set up residence in a Westport resident’s garage.

Town animal control officer Peter Reid reached out to long-time Westport Animal Shelter Advocates volunteer Sandy Young to assist with trapping.

WASA is the volunteer group for Westport Animal Control. The cat was trapped, and set up in Young’s home as a foster.

While recuperating, it gave birth to 5 kittens.  She’s been a loving and protective mother, but now it is time for the 2-month-old young ones to find homes.

It is hard to get good images of kittens for social media. But Staples High School Photography Club student Andrea Jaramillo and advisor Stacey Phelan organized a photo shoot.

Reid and WASA president Julie Loparo got the okay to use the Westport Police Department classroom. Club members Hazel Rossi, Elizabeth Stauder and Beatrice Schwabe joined Jaramillo and Phelan, to calm the babies and capture their best sides.

Interested in adopting them? (The kittens, not the girls.) Call 203-557-0361, or email wasa1@optonline.net. To support their care with a donation, click here.

During the photo shoot, and …

… one of the 5 kittens.

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Next month’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand show is very timely.

“What the Constitution Means to Me” takes center stage December 1 (7 p.m.).

At age 15, playwright Heidi Schreck earned her college tuition by competing in Constitutional debate competitions across the country. In this play that is “hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human,” she revisits her teenage self to explore how the document has shaped her family, her future — and our nation.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Black Friday shopping events — once confined to the day after Thanksgiving — has morphed into multi-day affairs (on both sides of the holiday).

Now, Sorelle Gallery takes things even further.

The Church Lane shop offers hundreds of original work, by local and national artists, at reduced prices.

The “Black Friday” sale has started already.

And it’s on through December 2.

Even better: A proportion of the proceeds will be donated to Sustainable CT.

Click here for details, and to view art on sale.

Ned Martin’s “Common Core” has been reduced from $13,100 to $5,000.

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Speaking of the holidays: The biggest toy drive in town returns next month.

The Westport Police Department, Police Athletic League and Westport Police Benevolent Association will once again collect new, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash donations — in the ASF Sports parking lot.

The dates are Saturdays and Sundays, December 6-7 and 13-14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

From December 1 on, there will be collection boxes at ASF, Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road, Awesome Toys and Gifts, and the Toy Post.

Mark the dates. And start shopping!

Westport Police, PAL — and Yogi Bear — collected toys for underprivileged youngsters last year, at ASF. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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The Saugatuck Rowing Club celebrated the 25th anniversary of its boathouse yesterday.

Owner Howard Winklevoss; his sons Cameron and Tyler, who began their Harvard and Olympic careers there, and founder James Mangan were among the many current and former rowers and coaches who joined in the festivities.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offered her congratulations too, for SRC’s success in putting Westport on the “national and international” rowing map.

From left: Howard Winklevoss, Tyler Winklevoss, James Mangan, Cameron Winklevoss. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also last night: Over 400 people packed the Westport Library to celebrate 60 years of the Grateful Dead. The Spadtastics — a Darien tribute band who themselves have been playing together for 40 years — starred in the Trefz Forum.

The modified Supper & Soul concert-only show was sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and the Library. Three restaurants offered Dead- inspired drinks, with Basso creating the “Grapefruit Dead” gin-based concoction.

The Spadtastics, on stage. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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The Westport Project — the new fully sustainable home going up at 16 Westport Avenue — has just added a 9th episode to its video documentary series.

The shows — starring builder Chris O’Dell of the O’Dell Group design/build firm, and designer/actor Eva Amurri — have racked up hundreds of thousands of views.

The latest episode — featuring the appliances planned for the new home — should be of interest to all Aitoro fans. Who doesn’t love the Norwalk appliance store, known for its huge selections, customer service, and community service?

Click here or below to see.

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Speaking of the environment: Aspetuck Land Trust’s “Lunch & Learn” webinars are always intriguing. And educational.

The next one is “Mini-Forest Revolution: Rewilding our Communities for Climate Resilience” (November 20, 12 noon).

Mini-forests support hundreds of species, are many degrees cooler than its surroundings, soak up stormwater, take up spaces no bigger than a tennis court, and become maintenance free within a few years.

Featured speaker Hannah Lewis has planted 7 mini-forests in Bridgeport. She’ll soon add the biggest one in New England. Click here to register, and for more information.


A typical mini-forest.

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A new artist has been added to George Barrett and Brian Keane‘s show at the Westport Library next Sunday (November 16, 2 p.m.).

Sarah Gross is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter. She has performed with Zach Bryan, and won Jimmy Fallon’s “Battle of the Instant Songwriters.”

Barrett — the 1973 Staples High School graduate (and former Orphenian) who grew up here in a home filled with classical, folk, rock, blues and jazz; whose influences include Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Sting and Norah Jones, and whose new album, “Rearrange Things,” is released this month — will be joined by Grammy-winning musician/composer/producer (and Staples ’71 grad) Brian Keane, plus other guests.

Before the show, Barrett and Keane will chat about their unique life journeys and unexpected reunion. The conversation will be hosted by “06880”‘s Dan Woog, who has known both for over 50 years.

It’s a fundraiser for the Library. Tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Congratulations to Lina Elwood. The Westport resident and Hopkins School sophomore is a winner in the Music Teachers National Association Piano Competition. She’ll move on to compete in the next round: the Eastern Division. Those winners move on to the national finals.

Lina has won top prizes at numerous state, regional and international competitions. She has also played with the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra and Norwalk Symphony Orchestra.

Lina Elwood

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Long-time Westport resident Edith Zwick Evans (formerly Edith Shufro) died on March 22 in Hamden. She was 99.

Edie was born into a Jewish family in Vienna in 1925. Her family fractured when the Nazis annexed Austria in 1938. Her mother and a sister died in Treblinka.

A year after the arrival of the Nazis, Edie escaped Austria on a Kindertransport train to the Netherlands. She was taken to England and lived there until 1943, when she sailed to the US in the midst of the war.

Edie earned a bachelor’s degree at Antioch College, and a master’s in social work at Columbia University. A friend from Antioch introduced her to Arnold Shufro, a textile salesman in New York City.

They married and moved from Manhattan to Westport after their first 2 children were born. They raised three children on Crestwood Road.

Edie regularly attended French club luncheons with Westport friends and studied sculpture at the Silvermine Arts Center in New Canaan with Stanley Bleifeld, of the National Academy of Design. I

n the mid-1970s Edie returned to part-time social worker at High Meadows School in Hamden.

Eventually she and Arnold divorced, and Edie married Robert Evans. The couple became innkeepers at the Sedgwick Inn and restaurant in Berlin, New York.

After Bob died, Edie lived in Williamstown, Massachusetts, then spent her final decade at the Whitney Center in Hamden.

Edie is survived by her daughters Cathy and Carol Shufro. Her son Mark died of a chronic illness in 2022. Her grandchild Sarah Shufro Mandelkern died as a child. Edie’s survivors include daughter-in-law Lisa Kerpen Shufro, 6 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” feature photos of deer show them in profile. The creatures seldom engage with humans.

But today’s image — by Dana Kuyper, from Over Rock Lane, off Compo Road South — shows this one staring straight at the camera.

They’re so handsome. Until they start devouring our plants.

(Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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And finally … today is the birthday of Mary Travers, of Peter, Paul and Mary fame. The beautiful woman with the beautiful voice — who was born in 1936, and died in 2009 at 72, from leukemia — had many Westport connections.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world. Mary Travers was part of our Westport world too. If you enjoy connections like these — or just our daily songs — please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Polls, Veterans Day, Wakeman Town Farm …

Posted on November 5, 2025 | 2 comments

“06880”‘s election coverage has been extensive. We’ll keep at it.

Today’s Roundup looks at other news. Except …

Barbara Tirola has worked at Westport’s polling places for 35 years. She’s part of a corps of loyal, and indispensable, citizen helpers.

This year she was at Greens Farms Elementary School. She arrived at 5:30 a.m. — half an hour before voting began — and left after 8 p.m., when polls closed.

That’s quite a way to spend her 86th birthday!

 

Barbara Tirola, celebrating her Election Day birthday — at work. (Photo and hat tip/Susan Bedusa)

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Veterans Day is another important holiday.

Town officials and VFW Post 399 make sure it gets the attention it deserves.

The public — especially all veterans — are invited to a ceremony next Monday (November 11, Town Hall auditorium).

The Westport Community Band presents a patriotic salute at 10:30 a.m. At 11, speakers — including one from Staples High School — will honor all the men and women who have served our nation.

The time and date are significant. Veterans Day commemorates the end of World War I, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

The Town Hall ceremony will be followed by lunch, and an open bar, for all veterans and community members at VFW Post 399.

 

Veterans Day at Town Hall, 2024. (Photo copyright Ted Horowitz)

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Speaking of holidays: Election Day is tough, for many parents.

They have to work. But school is out.

Wakeman Town Farm’s Election Day Camp is a great solution. And yesterday, young campers got a good lesson on the importance of voting.

First, they brainstormed campaign ideas about WTF’s animals.

When the votes were counted, alpacas and rabbits tied for the top spot as favorites. Meanwhile, honey bees kept their crown for the second year as the most important farm animals, thanks to their amazing job as pollinators.

After that, the campers headed into Tim’s Kitchen to whip up patriotic flag pizzas and donuts with Chef Robyn.

Election Day Camp, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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More about Wakeman  Town Farm: They’re among the many organizations helping neighbors through hard times during the government shutdown.

Now through November 9, the sustainability center is running a food drive to help Hall Neighborhood House in Bridgeport. WTF already partners with the non-profit, providing educational outreach to children who go there.

Click here for an Amazon Wish List. Groceries will be delivered directly to Hall House, and distributed to families. (It will listed as a delivery location at checkout.)

Dozens of seniors, and almost 300 families in the early learning and youth programs, rely on SNAP benefits that are now halted.

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Westport is a “water town.”

We’re on it. We use (quite) a lot of it. It’s in our wetlands, our swimming pools, our basements.

On November 13 (6 p.m., Zoom), SmartWaterCT sponsors a free webinar.  

“Water in Westport: What’s Happening Now — A Look Behind the Scenes” will explore how water is managed in Connecticut, and what it means for our town’s future.

Between Aquarion’s presence in Westport; the utility’s upcoming ownership change, and questions about water quality and conservation, the event is both timely and interesting.

For more information — including the Zoom link — email smartwaterct@gmail.com.

Aquarion — whose North Avenue tank is shown here — has a large presence in Westport. What does it mean for the town? (Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Westport is also a town with a lot of yard waste.

Especially this time of year.

The facility at 180 Bayberry Lane is open — and busy.

Westport residents with valid proof of residency may dump up to six 30-gallon bags, or similar-sized containers full of leaves, without a fee at the facility (180 Bayberry Lane). There are charges for vans, pickups and trailers. Plastic bags are not allowed.

Lots of leaves, at the yard waste facility. (Photo/Mary Lou Roels)

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Earth Animal’s 18th annual Mitten Project is underway.

Once again, the popular local business has set an audacious goal: $80,000, to address hunger in Fairfield County. Last year, Earth Animal and its friends raised $75,737.66.

Once again, they’ll match every dollar raised.

This — due to federal funding cuts — Earth Animal’s partner CT Foodshare needs more help than ever.

There are severa; parts to the Mitten Project.

In November and December, shoppers can support the cause in many ways, including:

“Pin-Up Fundraiser”: Donate $5 or more, fill out a paper mitten, and hang it in the store window. Every dollar will be matched by Earth Animal.

Purchasing advent calendars (25 days of giving treats to pups!)

“Shop & Give” promotions: businesses donate percentages of sales  (South Pine Creek Deli, Millie Rae’s, Bel Mondo, McLaughlin, Element50, Eleven11, Pet Pantry, Izzo’s Garden Center, 299 Design Gallery, The Post, Kelli & Crew, Westport Hardware, Scout & Molly’s, Vintage Gardens, La Moda, Capri, Athletic Shoe Factory, Lolli Sutton, Fox Trot Home and more)

Pies for Good: Wakeman Town Farm offers homemade apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb and pumpkin pie, plus homemade ice cream; $25 per pie, $10 per pint; order here (November 3-21).

Wreaths for Good (November 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.): Holiday wreath fundraiser, and a special appearance by Santa.

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Andrew Wilk’s free Westport Library Medical Series has attracted large audiences. For whatever reason, they’re primarily women.

The next session should draw many more men.

On November 17 (7 p.m.), noted internist Dr. Robert Altman and urologic oncologist Dr. John Graham will discuss the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

It’s the third most common cancer killer of American men. There have been many recent advances. Men should learn about them — and about the disease itself too.

The 90-minute event will include time for questions.

Dr. Robert Altbaum

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George Barrett has lived many lives.

The 1973 Staples High School graduate has been a teacher, athlete and Fortune 100 CEO.

The former Orphenian is also a very talented singer/songwriter, who grew up in a home filled with classical, folk, rock, blues and jazz.

After honing his skills as a session singer and performer in Greenwich Village, Barrett took a detour into the top ranks of the healthcare industry.

But his life took a significant turn in 2022, when he reconnected with musician/ composer/producer/Grammy-winning 1971 Staples grad Brian Keane. They’ve collaborated on 2 albums.

The latest, “Rearrange Things,” combines the sophistication of jazz, the soul of ’70s pop, gospel harmonies, and a timeless message of empathy. Barrett’s influences include Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Sting and Norah Jones.

On November 16 (2 p.m.), Barrett and Keane take to the Westport Library stage. They’ll chat about their unique life journeys and unexpected reunion — hosted by “06880”‘s Dan Woog, who has known both for over 50 years — followed by a special performance by Barrett, his band, and Keane. It’s a fundraiser for the Library.

Barrett cut his teeth at Greenwich Village clubs like The Bitter End. He’ll perform there again, right before his Westport show.

Tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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The Westport Book Shop’s November Short Story Club selection commemorates Veterans Day.

This month’s stories are about those who serve, and their families:

  • Soldier’s Home” (1925) by Ernest Hemingway
  • “The Things They Carried” (1990) by Tim O’Brien (the first chapter in O’Brien’s novel of the same name)
  • “Refresh, Refresh” (2006) by Benjamin Percy.

The club meets November 20 (6 p.m.). Registration is required; call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Coleytown Middle School’s fall production — “Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr.” — celebrates music, creativity and (of course) dreams.

The 60-minute musical revue runs November 20 (6 p.m.) and 21 (7 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information. 

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Elections often bring hope.

So do photos like this one — today’s “Westport … Naturally” image of the day. It’s from Stephanie Mastocciolo’s yard, on Warnock Drive.

(Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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And finally … To all those who put themselves on the line (and the ballot) yesterday: Win or lose, thank you for stepping up!

(I did not want to grow up to be a blogger. But — since 2009 — I’ve been one. For 16 years, you’ve supported “06880.” We need you now more than ever. Please click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local business

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Roundup: Post Road Hell, Drug Takeback Day, That’s Entertainment! …

Posted on October 25, 2025 | 1 comment

The good news: The decade-long Post Road project may be coming to end.

The bad news: Starting this weekend, and continuing for a week (or more), US 1 will be more difficult to navigate than ever.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation begins its “final paving and milling phase” tomorrow (Sunday).

Work will start at the Sherwood Island Connector, and continue west through Westport toward Norwalk.

Expect lane closures, alternating traffic and reduced speeds.

Manhole covers and catch basin tops will be temporarily raised. Be alert!

And, DOT says: “Be patient. This long-awaited final phase will deliver smoother roads and improved drainage once complete.” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

A walk in the park, compared to what’s coming down the pike this week. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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But hey — there’s this, nearby on Church Lane:

Maman — the bakery replacing Mrs. London’s — opens this Thursday.

Bon appétit!

Maman, last month. (Photo and hat tip/Sal Liccione)

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It’s late notice, but important: Today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), Westport is participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Westport Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency are collecting tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of old, unwanted and expired prescription drugs. The collection site is the Senior Center.

They will NOT accept syringes, sharps or illicit drugs. Liquid products like cough syrup should remain sealed in original containers. For more information, click here.

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Through the first 5 days of early voting, 4.54 % of eligible Westport voters have cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 531 of 7,952 eligible voters (6.68%)
  • Republicans: 123 of 3,338 eligible voters (3.68%)
  • Unaffiliated: 204 of 7,581 eligible voters (2.69%)

Early voting continues this weekend, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Town Hall.

The early voting schedule next week, also at Town Hall:

Monday, October 27              10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, October 28              8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 29        10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 30            8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 31                 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, November 1           10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 2             10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Westporters may know Tom Greenwald as a young adult author, and youth sports expert.

But the 1979 Staples High School graduate is also co-founder of SpotCo. The ad agency — specializing in theater clients — has created some of Broadway’s classic (and most successful) campaigns, including “Hamilton,” “Hadestown” and “Rent.”

(You think those shows just sold themselves?!)

Now Greenwald is co-host of a podcast. “The Show Must Go on Sale!” launched yesterday.

The cleverly named podcast (these guys are good!) is the first ever dedicated specifically to Broadway advertising and marketing. Producers, general managers, press agents, ad execs and more will chat about the ups, downs, fun and frustrations of convincing audiences to buy a ticket (+3 = Family Pack!) to a live performance.

“I’ve been doing this for close to 30 years, which makes me somewhat qualified to understand how fantastic and futile, magical and maddening it is to sell Broadway shows for a living,” Greenwald says.

“I can’t wait to talk to all sorts of absurdly optimistic theater people to see if they feel the same way.”

“The Show Must Go on Sale!” is available at all the usual podcast platforms. Click here or below for the first episode.

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Speaking of entertainment: George Barrett has lived many lives.

The 1973 Staples High School graduate has been a teacher, athlete and Fortune 100 CEO.

The former Orphenian is also a very talented singer/songwriter, who grew up in a home filled with classical, folk, rock, blues and jazz.

After honing his skills as a session singer and performer in Greenwich Village, Barrett took a detour into the top ranks of the healthcare industry.

But his life took a significant turn in 2022, when he reconnected with musician/ composer/producer/Grammy-winning 1971 Staples grad Brian Keane. They’ve collaborated on 2 albums. The second, “Rearrange Things” (released this fall) was recorded largely in Connecticut, as Barrett reconnected with Westport.

On November 16 (2 p.m.), Barrett and Keane take to the Westport Library stage. They’ll chat about their unique life journeys and unexpected reunion — hosted by “06880”‘s Dan Woog, who has known both for over 50 years — followed by a special performance by Barrett, his band, and Keane.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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In the days of voting machines, once we cranked the lever we were pretty sure our ballot was counted.

With the (relatively) new “tabulators,” there’s always a bit of unease. The machine swallowed up my ballot. Did I fill in the circles correctly? Are there any stray marks? How do I know it didn’t get shredded, or fall into the innards?

A steady drumbeat of “election doubters” has sowed distrust nationwide.

This year, Connecticut’s tabulators have a new twist. It should reassure electors that their vote will indeed be counted.

These gizmos have a screen that gives confirmation your vote was registered.

And if you did screw up, the screen tells you that too.

Don’t believe me? Click here, for an instructional video.

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There’s a lot cooking this fall at Wakeman Town Farm. For example:

  • Dyslexia screening and panel (parents): October 27
  • Halloween tot parade: October 28
  • Knitting circle drop-in: November 11
  • Adults dessert baking class: November 13
  • Kids cooking class (ages 6-12): November 14
  • Registration for kids’ fall programs begins November 10.

Click here for times, details, and more information.

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Today’s Halloween house is on Bradley Street.

As photographer Ed Simek notes, it will no doubt see a lot of action on October 31.

Along with the rest of the very generous, always overrun and totally in-the-spirit neighborhood.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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The leaves turn … but some colors remain the same.

Melissa Makris captured this fall view of the Saugatuck River, just a few yards from Kerri Rosenthal and our busy downtown:

(Photo/Melissa Makris)

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And finally … speaking of Tommy Greenwald, and his very successful Broadway (ad agency) career (story above):

(Hey! Great video! But “06880” can’t pay the rent — or anything else — without support from our readers. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Merci!

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Roundup: AI, Kids Who Aren’t A–holes, Arts …

Posted on October 5, 2025 | 2 comments

An in-depth exploration of artificial intelligence — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — is set for next Saturday (October 11, Westport Library). The public event is sponsored by Verso University, The Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.

There are 3 sessions: 12-1:30, 2-3:30 and 4-5:30. Tickets are $10 per session; $25 for all ($15 student rate for all). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Scott Shapiro, Yale Law School professor leads off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.

The second session will examine the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.

The final session concludes with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts.

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I’m not sure how I missed this, but Melinda Wenner Moyer’s 2021 book might have the best title in the history of publishing: “How To Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes.”

She followed it up this May with the less provocative — but equally important — “Hello Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times.”

On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Senior Center), Westport Together brings the Scientific American contributing editor to town. Click here to register.

Melinda Wenner Moyer

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The Westport Country Playhouse celebrated 95 years making American theater history last night, with a high-energy, Broadway-studded gala.

The iconic converted barn has not thrown fundraisers in every year of its near century existence. But for however many they’ve had, yesterday’s may have been the best.

The incomparable Nathan Lane and Anne Keefe — longtime Playhouse mainstay — were honored for their contributions. Both gave warm, graceful speeches.

Anne Keefe

Over a dozen stars belted out familiar tunes, spurred to great heights knowing Lane was in the audience, watching.

The traditional auction and paddle raise zipped along, underscoring the respect and love the full house holds for the Westport Country Playhouse.

Here’s to the next 95 years. And more!

Nathan Lane (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Artist-educator Burt Chernow launched the Westport Public Art Collections (WestPAC) in 1965, with a vision that every Westport student should experience art every day.

Built through donations from local, national and international artist friends, the WestPAC collections today include over 2,000 artworks displayed throughout Westport public schools, municipal buildings, and outdoor spaces.

As WestPAC celebrates its 60th anniversary, they’re launching a fundraising campaign. A gift of $60 (get it?) or more will help fund the care, framing, conservation and educational use of the Collections/

Click here to donate to the non-profit Friends of WestPAC,  or send a check to Friends of Westport Public Art Collections, PO Box 92, Westport, CT 06881. Questons? Email Friends.WestPAC@gmail.com.

PS: The next exhibition — “Every Picture Tells A Story: Photographs from the Westport Public Art Collection — is on view at the Westport Library from October 15 through December 15. It opens with a reception and talk by guest curator Arthur Nager on October 15 (6 p.m.).

Among the WESTPAC works: this Saturday Evening Post cover by Westport artist Stevan Dohanos. The models were all Staples High School students.

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A big little shop — called Lille Shoppe — opens soon at 375 Post Road West.

Abby Mattern’s new homewares store is an outgrowth of her first location, in Guilford. Both are stocked with items she sources personally in Europe, most of them uncommon here.

They include linens, dishes, glassware, furniture, candles, pottery, artwork, specialty imported food items and more. it’s a mix of antique/vintage items, and new.

The soft opening is October 10. A grand opening follows on October 18. Click here for the website. Click here for the Instagram.

Lille Shoppe 

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The Westport Book Shop’s 5th annual Family Fun & Pumpkin Painting Project is all about treats. There’s not a trick in sight.

Set for next Saturday (October 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Jesup Green), it’s a day of pumpkin painting, crafts, face painting, tattoos, guest critters, Monster Mash, music from the Staples High jazz band, and more. Costumes are encouraged (but not required).

Co-hosts are Earthplace and the Westport Tree Board.

Pumpkin painting and more, at the Westport Book Shop’s annual event. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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George Barrett — the multi-talented (opera singer, teacher/soccer coach/healthcare executive, and singer/songwriter) 1973 Staples High School graduate has just released a single and music video.

“Watch the Moon” — a track from his upcoming album, “Rearrange Things” — is  about the loss of a child.

That unimaginable tragedy has touched many people close to Barrett.

He says, “for some, the struggle to keep their spirit as they try to look after the rest of their family, is an ongoing battle. Given the subject, it felt right to keep this song without ornament, stripped down to my voice and piano.”

On November 14, Barrett will be at New York’s Bitter End — the venue where, years ago, he nervously played his first open mic gig.

And on November 16, he and his good friend, Grammy-winning composer/ producer (and ’71 Staples grad) Brian Keane perform at the Westport Library. Details will be announced soon.

Click here or below, to listen to “Watch the Moon.” Click here for “Rearrange Things.”

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Today, the “06880” tagline — “Where Westport meets the world” — takes us to Madrid.

Longtime Westporter Luisa Francouer is there. She visited the “100 Years of Leica” photo exhibition — and spotted this image, by 1991 Staples High School graduate Lynsey Addario.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” features marks the first appearance here of “the common garden orange carrot.”

At least, that’s what photographer Mike Hibbard says.

(Photo/Mike Hibbard)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming appearance by the author of “How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes” (story above):

(Don’t be a you-know-what. “06880” relies on support from you — you know, readers like you. Please click here to be a nice person, and help us out too. Thank you very kindly.)

 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Y Cap, Y Swim, Judith Marks-White …

Posted on June 15, 2024 | 12 comments

When the Westport Weston Family YMCA received permits for its new facility off Wilton Road, town officials insisted on certain restrictions.

One was a Planning & Zoning Commission limit of 12,500 members.

The Y has now reached that limit. They’ll institute a waitlist.

“Given that the mission of our Y is to welcome and serve all who walk through our doors, we are sorry to disappoint potential new members who want to belong to our vibrant community,” says CEO Anjali McCormick.

She assures current and future members, “we remain committed to providing you with the best experience possible.”

Members head to the Y all day, every day. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the Y: Their 45th annual Point to Point Open Water Swim Race begins at 8 a.m. on July 28.

The 1-mile charity event draws swimmers to Compo Beach from across the Northeast.

All proceeds support the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s aquatics programs, including swim lessons and water safety training for children and adults.

Pre-registration is $60; the day-of-race fee is $75. The kids’ race is $15. Registration includes a swim cap, t-shirt and timing chip.

The top finishers earn prizes. To register and learn more, click here.

The start of the 2022 Point-to-Point swim.

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For many years, Judith Marks-White’s “The Light Touch” and “In Other Words” columns were required reading in the Westport News. Both won writing awards — as did many other stories by the talented local writer.

She died peacefully yesterday at Norwalk Hospital, surrounded by her family. The wife of the late artist/illustrator Morton Rosenfeld was 84.

Born on March 21, 1940 in Passaic, New Jersey, she attended Prospect Hill Country Day School in Newark, and Vassar College.

She then began her professional life in New York, at Time-Life Books.

In 1972 Judith moved to Westport. She soon became the humor columnist of the local paper. She also wrote for national magazines and newspapers.

She contributed to many children’s publications and “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” and wrote 2 novels. She received awards for both fiction and nonfiction.

Judith spent many years as an adjunct professor of English at Norwalk Community College, where she was named Teacher of the Year. In addition, she led writing workshops.

She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth (Andrew), and grandchildren Andrew and Caroline.

Funeral services will be held Monday (June 17, 1 p.m., Temple Shalom, Norwalk). Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport.

Shiva will be held Monday (June 17, 4-8 p.m.) and Tuesday (June 18, 1-4 and 5-8 p.m.) at the home of Debbie Richman and Jeffrey Selden in Weston.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Judith’s memory may be made to the Westport Library.

Judith Marks-White

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Longshore Sailing School cares about the water — and the coast.

On Saturday, June 29 (9:30 to 11 a.m.), they’re sponsoring a coastal cleanup.

Kayaks are free — provided kayakers remove garbage and debris from the shoreline and Saugatuck River.

Even in an eco-conscious town like ours, there’s plenty of trash.

Longshore Sailing School has run similar events in the fast, with great success.

Click here to register; use the code “cleanup” at checkout. Bring your own gloves!

Longshore Sailing School kayaks, waiting to clean the coast. (Photo/Anne Bernier

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Three Westporters were honored at the 19th annual “40 Under 40 of Fairfield County” awards ceremony, presented by Westfair Business Journal.

Congratulations to Maxx Crowley of SCA Crowley Real Estate (and president of the Westport Downtown Association); Susannah Crowley of Bumble (now with TikTok — and not related to Maxx), and Mathias Sportini, a partner at FLB Law.

Over 100 nominees, all under the age of 40, were submitted by Chambers of Commerce and businesses in Fairfield County. The 3 local winners were nominated by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

From left: Maxx Crowley, Mathias Sportini, Susannah Crowley and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell.

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Karlin Gray is not a soccer player. But like Mia Hamm, she grew up as a shy “military brat,” moving every year or two, and found great friends along the way. Coincidentally, she graduated from the same high school as Mia.

Now Karlin — a Westport resident — has written a graphic novel about the soccer star.

“Mia and Friends” follows a group of young women who made history at the 1999 Women’s World Cup.

Aimed at readers ages 7-10, it will be published August 27. Click here for more information, including a sneak peek.

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George Barrett — the 1973 Staples High School graduate who in his long life has sung with the Orphenians, played varsity soccer at Brown University, taught at Horace Mann, served as CEO of Cardinal Health, and last year returned to his longtime love of singing with the release of his first record — is now working on his second.

Meanwhile, the video for his newest song — “You’re Not Alone” — went live yesterday.

Recorded with the very talented Harmony Project, it’s a heartfelt ballad with a powerful message.

The video is equally stunning. And the beginning and end were filmed at Compo Beach — an important place in George’s life.

PS: George continues to work on his music with Brian Keane, the Grammy-winning and multi-talented 1971 Staples grad.

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MoCA CT’s next exhibition — “ColleCTomania” — includes over 140 Swiss posters from collector Tom Strong.

The New Haven-based graphic designer, photographer and collector has spent 60 years amassing, displaying and sharing his archive.

The exhibit runs June 27 through September 13. Click here for more information, and to RSVP for the opening reception (June 27, 6 p.m.).

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Yesterday’s rain knocked out an important day of the Yankee Doodle Fair.

Sunny skies are predicted today. The fair — a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club — continues at their Imperial Avenue site this afternoon and evening (Saturday, 1 to 10 p.m.), and tomorrow (Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.).

The rain also produced this gorgeous rainbow, looking southeast from Owenoke:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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In recent days, “06880” has been inundated with deer photos, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Lovely as they are (there are no images of them eating plants, trees and shrubs), we can’t run them all.

But we can’t resist this one:

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

After checking out the Terrain greenery — and seeing that venison is not on the café menu — this fawn managed to safely cross the Post Road.

Oh, dear!

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And finally … on this day in 1752, Benjamin Franklin proved that lightning is electricity.

(The Y has reached its max — but not “06880.” You can still support our work! Just click here. Thanks for your help.) 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Obituaries, Sports, YMCA

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George Barrett: CEO Rediscovers His Musical Roots

Posted on December 14, 2023 | 4 comments

George Barrett accomplished lots in life. He played varsity soccer at Brown University, taught at Horace Mann, and was CEO of a Fortune 25 company.

But in 2016, he had a chance to play with The Who’s Roger Daltrey.

“Finally, I felt like I was home again,” says the 1973 Staples High School graduate.

As CEO of Cardinal Health — the Ohio-based multinational distributor of pharmaceuticals, medical  and lab products — Barrett often traveled with his guitar.

But, the former Orphenian — who had sung professionally in New York, and considered a musical career — said, “I was hesitant to perform in public. I didn’t know how that would be seen.”

The Daltrey gig — at a company event — was a turning point. “People saw a side of me they hadn’t known,” Barrett says.

Encouraged, he began performing with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and jazz and chamber groups.

Now — at the age of 68 — he’s released his first record. Fittingly, it’s a collaboration with Grammy Award-winning producer/composer/arranger — and 1971 Staples grad — Brian Keane.

George Barrett (Photo/David McClister)

Barrett and Keane first met playing youth sports in Westport. Now, at Keane’s Monroe studio — and with an all-star band of musicians and backup singers — they’re together again.

Barrett and his 4 siblings — all musically talented — were part of a noted local family. His father Herb was a psychologist; his mother Lou was a Staples High School English teacher and poet.

George Barrett, Staples basketball star.

Barrett grew up as both a musician and athlete. Starring in soccer, basketball and baseball at Staples, he was always encouraged seeing Orphenians director George Weigle — with whom he toured Europe — at his games.

“No one forced me to make a choice. I was celebrated for doing both music and sports,” he says. He felt similarly supported at Brown, where Barrett — whose parents had helped build Temple Israel — moonlighted singing in church choirs.

After college he taught history and music, and coached soccer and baseball, at Horace Mann, the prestigious New York prep school. Meanwhile, he played music in Greenwich Village clubs like the Bitter End, did session work and recorded jingles.

“It was a crazy life,” he notes.

But while he loved “the music part of business” — being on stage — he did not enjoy other aspects. Offered a chance to move to Los Angeles, as part of the late-’70s soft rock scene, he said no.

A series of unexpected events — including going into business with his then-wife’s family — led to a career he’d never envisioned: pharmaceuticals. The dual history and music major had taken only one business course at Brown, but he earned an MBA at New York University.

The small family business exposed him to everything. Ten years later, Barrett ran the firm.

It was then acquired by a company in Norway. The CEO asked him to run its American subsidiary, in Baltimore.

Barrett was 34 years old. He “learned to lead” from older employees. “They gave me a great gift,” he says.

In 1998 he began running US operations for Israel-based Teva, the world’s largest manufacturer of generic drugs. Eight years later he was offered its CEO spot. But instead of relocating to Israel, he joined Cardinal Health, an American firm, as vice chairman. Two years later, he was named CEO.

Barrett calls his decade there “an incredible experience. I worked with great people. It was a blessing.”

Yet all along, music was never far from his heart. So despite his post-Cardinal Health work — teaching at the Columbia University School of Public Health and NYU Business School, policy work in Washington, consulting, and board work with Brown, the Business Roundtable and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — when he was looking for a second (okay, fifth or sixth) act, he asked Keane for an honest assessment.

Brian Keane

They talked, played and made a demo tape.

“I think there’s something there,” Keane said.

That was all Barrett needed to hear.

Tapping into Keane’s vast network of musical contacts, Barrett worked on an album. His goal was to cross genres and age brackets.

A year and a half later, “Not Alone” has just been released. There’s a single from the album too — and a video.

“It feels like a rebirth,” says Barrett, of his first time back in a studio in decades. “I’m hearing my music now — with real horns and guitars and backup singers — the way I was hearing it in my head. Everyone has been sensational.”

The response from fellow musicians has been important. He recorded with, among others, jazz legends Cyrus Chestnut and Eddie Gomez, Billy Drummond, Dave Mann, Joe Bonadillo, “Saturday Night Live” drummer Sean Pelton — and his brother, cellist Dan Barrett.

Keane accompanied Barrett on guitar. Backup singers toured with Bruce Springsteen.

“I had been away from that community for so long. I was wondering: Am I a businessman with a hobby, or a real musician? Their welcome was very gratifying,” Barrett says.

“Not Alone” has been released on all platforms. It crosses genres: Americana, bluegrass, gospel, country, blues, classical, rock, funk and jazz. Most of the songs were written by Barrett, though it includes Richard Rodgers covers.

Barrett does not want to be known as “the singing business guy.” He hopes his music “speaks for itself, and for me — organically and gently.”

Though he’s never been active on social media, he now has a music website, an Instagram and a Facebook page. “That’s another learning experience,” he laughs.

Speaking of learning: At 68, does Barrett see his age as a deterrent?

“It’s less about age, than stage of life,” he counters. “If I was younger, I might do a national tour. But I’ll just perform selectively now.”

Still, he is “as excited and enthusiastic as when I was 24. I enjoy music as much as I ever did.”

Keane and Barrett have talked about performing in Westport. His ties here remain strong. “When I sit at the bench at the beach dedicated to my parents, my youth comes flooding back,” Barrett says.

That youth includes playing at long-gone venues like Grassroots, on Post Road West just over the bridge.

“You don’t realize until you leave just how special this community is,” says Barrett.

It’s a community where the artist who just released “Not Alone” grew up.

And never felt alone.

(Click here for “Not Alone,” on a variety of streaming platforms. Click here for George Barrett’s music website.))

(“06880” often chronicles the intriguing lives of talented Staples High School graduates. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Entertainment, Staples HS

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George Barrett Manages Healthcare, And Change

Posted on May 6, 2016 | 3 comments

George Barrett– the 1973 Staples grad who starred in soccer, basketball and baseball and sang with the Orphenians — has had a storied career.

After graduating from Brown University with a double major in history and music, he taught and coached at Horace Mann, performed opera and folk music professionally, and got an MBA from NYU.

Today — hey, why not? — he’s chairman and CEO of Cardinal Health, the enormous healthcare company ranked #26 on the Fortune 500. He serves on many civic and charitable boards (including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame), and has an honorary doctorate from LIU.

Recently, Institutional Investor spoke to Barrett. He discussed a number of topics, including the vast changes sweeping healthcare.

George Barrett (Photo/Andrew Spear for Institutional Investor)

George Barrett (Photo/Andrew Spear for Institutional Investor)

Among the questions and answers:

Talk about the incredible changes taking place in health care, including the ACA.

These were the changes we were thinking about back in 2009, when we started to regroup. It’s well beyond the Affordable Care Act, which hadn’t yet been implemented. Demographic changes are tremendous. We have a dramatically aging population. We have 11 million people today over the age of 80. That number will double by 2025. This is just in the U.S., but it’s happening globally as well. As you know, older people are higher consumers of health care products and services. That creates economic pressures. How are we going to give these people access? We are spending around 18 percent of GDP on health care, crowding out spending on other issues like infrastructure and education.

Innovation is also transforming health care and our ability not only to prolong life and treat disease, but in some cases to cure diseases and repair physical pathologies with medical devices. Finally, the big trend is consumers becoming more like consumers, meaning they will have a greater role in their own health and, ideally, in their own wellness.

How do these forces change what you do as a company?

It changes everything: how we deliver care, in what setting we deliver care and by whom. How do you measure the quality of the care over time and, of course, who pays for it?

What’s the most difficult part of planning for that?

Cardinal Health logoWell, the easier part was clearly having a point of view on what kind of changes would occur. The hardest part, in a way, is managing pace. It wasn’t impossible to imagine some of the changes or how they might play out, although getting them all right is, of course, impossible. What’s most difficult is over what time period. How fast does it occur? How dramatic are the changes?

As a leader, that’s actually one of the biggest challenges. I could assume that change will happen as it has historically, just rather slowly, and you just stick exactly to what got you there. Then you run the risk of really being disrupted or blindsided. On the other hand, you can assume that change is going to occur overnight, very fast. You’re so preoccupied with the future you’re not focusing on the disciplines of competing in today’s world, and you get hurt in your core activities, and you’re sort of out over your skis on the future. I think this issue of managing pace is important. I remind the organization all the time that we need to compete to win in the world as we know it today, and — it’s an and, not an or — have a clear point of view on some of these future trends and make some thoughtful, disciplined, measured bets on the long term.

Health care is obviously a big issue in the upcoming U.S. presidential election. There may be enormous changes coming regardless of which party wins. How do you plan around that?

George Barrett (Photo/Stephen Webster for Barrons)

George Barrett (Photo/Stephen Webster for Barrons)

I mentioned earlier that it’s hard to judge pace. Now add the complexity of the political year and the political discourse, which can be headline driving, but not necessarily deeply informed as to what’s happening on the ground in health care. I think we have to remind ourselves that what’s happening in the trenches is often different than what’s happening in the news.

It’s going to be a year where there’s a lot of discussion in the political realm about health care. There are certainly those who continue to talk about whether the Affordable Care Act is going to be repealed. I think undoing that is extremely difficult and we would not bet on that. I do think, like any piece of large social legislation, it will probably be modified over time. I don’t think that would be unusual. I think for us the key is staying agile, having a point of view on the future, making sure we have a seat at the table as we’re thinking about policy changes and that our voice is heard.

(To read the entire interview, click here. Hat tip: Michael Mahoney)

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Posted in Economy, People, Politics, Staples HS

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Remembering Lou Barrett

Posted on October 4, 2015 | 23 comments

Lucille “Lou” Barrett — a member of that great generation of post-war Westporters who helped define this town for half a century — died early today. She was 92 years old.

Lou was a lifelong educator. She began in Greenwich Village in the 1940s, and spent many years in the Westport school system. After she retired, she became a sought-after writing coach. Perhaps best known as a Staples High School English teacher, she was beloved by colleagues and students for her deep wisdom, gentle nature, and genuine concern for everyone she met.

Lucille "Lou" Barrett

Lucille “Lou” Barrett

As a founding member of Temple Israel, she helped create one of the town’s most active social justice institutions. As first principal of its religious school, she made sure that there was as strong an emphasis on current affairs as on Jewish education.

Lou was also a gifted poet. She was published frequently — including 5 collections that explore fearlessly and with intensity her Jewish heritage, her childhood in Brookly, and her maturing to adulthood and old age — and never missed a chance to pass on her love for the craft.

Her son George says:

Mom was humble, fierce in her convictions, devoted, and always focused on the needs of others. I have heard over the years many stories from people I don’t even know about how my mother transformed their lives, or started their careers, or pushed them to take a chance on something in which they believed.

She believed in her students, her children and her friends, and strove to help them see in themselves the strength and beauty she saw in them. She treated every one with honesty and respect.

She was also the connecting tissue for an enormous family ecosystem that now spans 4 generations, and multiple continents.

Lou’s husband, Herb, died this past May, at 93. The Barretts were married for 73 years. Lou is survived by 5 children, 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service is set for Tuesday (October 6, 12:30 p.m.), at Temple Israel, with private burial service to follow. The family will sit shiva after hte burial at the home of Marvin and Joan Frimmer in Westport. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Congregation Kol Ami, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, or Temple Israel, Westport.

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Posted in Education, People, religion, Staples HS

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Remembering Herb Barrett

Posted on May 19, 2015 | 10 comments

Herb Barrett — a member of that great generation who settled in Westport soon after World War II, raised a family here and spent decades contributing to civic life — died today. He was 93 years old, and had moved with his beloved wife Lou to Pennsylvania several years ago, to be near his children.

George Barrett — one of Herb and Lou’s 5 children — writes:

My dad liked to describe himself as unremarkable, but  he was far from that. He was a gifted therapist, possessed of a special capacity to see the unique qualities in all people – and able to help people to see those things in themselves.

Herb Barrett

Herb Barrett

He was a very talented writer, a skill very few of us had the opportunity to enjoy, but so very obvious when reading though his journals and his letters to my mom from the war.

He had a raw musical aptitude which he never fully appreciated, but which his children were encouraged to polish. He could burst into song any time, and no microphone was off limits if it were in reaching distance.

He had a wicked sense of humor and an impish grin.

He was a proud veteran of the US Army – Signal Intelligence  Company, attached to the 5th Army headquarters. He spent 2 1/2 years abroad, in North Africa, Sicily and other parts of Italy. He lived through Anzio, which he rarely discussed.

He was married to my mom Lucille for more than 73 years. He was father to 5, grandfather to 10, and great-grandfather to 3 (with another on the way).

He loved Westport, and everything and everyone associated with Westport. At Compo Beach, he taught all of us to climb the cannons. Along with my mom, he lived and breathed the public school system, which drew him there in the first place. I’m not sure that he ever missed a Staples Candlelight concert when he was healthy.

He had a deep desire to see the walls between people dissolve. That is clear through his deep commitment to civil rights, his clear messaging to his children, and this classic section from a journal I found where he discussed his war experience:

I developed some wonderful friendships with the gang of fellows who shared the same tent…Neils O. Blackburn from Moroni, Utah; Kenny Biggs from Townsend, Montana; Charlie Sheehan from Cheyenne, Wyomingl Lou Ambort of Little Rock, Arkansas and Johnny Abs from Chicago.

Herb Barrett, during World War II.

Herb Barrett, during World War II.

I recall a discussion the night we pitched camp outside Santa Maria ( near Caserta). It was a bone chilling rainy night, and we piled together for warmth inside the buffeted pyramidal. How or why I can’t say, but we discussed religion — a Mormon, a Catholic, a Jew, a Lutheran, a Methodist and a Presbyterian.

We were no scholars. We just compared experiences. And when all was said and done, we felt that what we had in common ran deeper than our specific beliefs.

(Friends are invited to attend a service for Herb Barrett this Thursday (May 21), 11 a.m. at Temple Israel. Following burial, the family will receive visitors at the home of Marvin and Joan Frimmer, 138 Imperial Avenue. Contributions in Herb Barrett’s name may be made to Congregation Kol Ami, 8201 High School Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027.)

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Posted in Looking back, Organizations, People

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