Tag Archives: Green’s Farms Academy

Roundup: Vinyl, Rap, GFA …

Posted on November 18, 2024 | 6 comments

Books never go out of style.

Neither do vinyl records.

The Westport Library has plenty of both. And right now, viny is on display on the main floor, near the reference desk.

The collection ranges from classics like Bob Dylan’s “Blonde on Blonde” and Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” to newer releases like Hozier’s “Unreal Unearth” and and Beyonce’s “Renaissance.”

There are over 100 records across 9 genres: rock, pop, R&B, hip hop, jazz, folk, blue:s, country, and local artists (including the Library’s home-grown “Verso Records: Volume 1.”

Patrons can check out up to 3 records at a time, for up to 10 days. For more information on viny collectng, click here.

Love vinyl, but your turntable is long gone?

The Library of Things has Crosley Cruiser Turntables available to borrow.

Also in the Library of Things: 2 Nintendo Switch consoles, plus 50 games like Mario Party, Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Pikmin 4, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and more.

Westport Library vinyl and video game collections.

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Speaking of music: Jeff Franzel — the Westport native and current Saugatuck Shores resident who played piano for the Hues Corporation (“Rock the Boat”), Les Brown, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Mel Torme and Bob Hope, then wrote hits for Taylor Dayne, the Temptations, NSYNC, Shawn Colvin, Josh Groban, Placido Domingo and Clay Aiken — recently received his first Grammy Award nomination.

It’s for his song “Big Mama-Latto,” in the Best Melodic Rap Song category. (The multi-talented Franzel is a rapper too.)

Earlier this fall he won the Netherlands’ Edison Award — that country’s Grammy equivalent.

Jeff and his wife Joanne went to Amsterdam for the ceremony. (Hat tip: Prill Boyle)

Jeff Franzel

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Westporters have been thrilled by Saturday’s state field hockey championship, won by the Staples High School Wreckers.

Remarkably, they’re not the only field hockey champs in town.

Yesterday, Greens Farms Academy won captured its first-ever New England prep title. The Dragons edged New Hampton 1-0, in the Class C final at the Ethel Walker School.

Almost as thrilling was the reception home. After getting off I-95, the team received an escort back to GFA by the Westport Police.

Greens Farms Academy: New England field hockey champs!

PS: Congratulations too to senior Grace Almeida. GFA’s all-time leading scorer will play field hockey next year at Brown University.

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Meanwhile, across the street from Greens Farms Aacademy: another full moon, another flood at Burying Hill Beach.

This was the scene yesterday — a couple of days after the actual full moon.

(Photo/Drew Coyne)

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As audiences laughed, applauded for and loved Staples Players’ production of “Elf,” they had one question: Where was the peppy, great-sounding pit orchestra?

Conductor Lauren Pine and her 16 musicians were nowhere to be seen.

With no room on stage, they played from the band room, down a hallway behind the stage.

Staples High School’s “Elf” pit orchestra, in the band room.

They were hardly out of sight, out of mind. Despite the distance — and thanks to a TV monitor — they did not, um, miss a beat.

The show was particularly meaningful for bassist Larry Perlstein.

Exactly 50 years ago — in 1974 — he was a Staples junior, playing in his first pit for Players’ production of “Oklahoma!”

His daughter Avery is now a junior herself. She runs lights for “Elf,” carrying on the family tradition.

There are still 4 chances to see the show that has the entire town buzzing. performances are set for this Thursday and Friday (November 21 and 22, 7 p.m.), and Saturday (Nofember 23, 2 and 7 p.m.).Click here for tickets. Though some shows may be sold out, tickets are often available at the door.

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Robert Haydon Jones, Jr. died peacefully on November 10 in Fairfield. Alice, his wife of 50 years, was at his side. He was 86.

Born in New York City and raised in Westport, he was a graduate of Staples High School, Portsmouth Priory (now Abbey) in Rhode Island.

He left Miami University in Ohio before graduation, when he married Carol Lindblom.

Moving back to Westport, Bob was hired by advertising firm Ogilvy, Benson & Mather. He spent his career on Madison Avenue agencies alongside giants in marketing, advertising, public relations and literary publishing. Malachy McCourt was a good friend, until his death earlier this year.

Bob founded his own shop, Robert Haydon Jones & Associates, in Westport in 1972. He helped create a new genre of customizable, direct-to-customer, targeted-outreach marketing tools.

He crafted “some of the greatest direct marketing strategies ever conceived,” said Denny Hatch, editor of DM News.

A fundraising letter aimed at holding President Nixon to account in 1972 started “Dear Fool.” It broke response records, and became a major fundraising package.

He was passionate about baseball. Generations of young players  around Fairfield County still talk about his coaching of their Babe Ruth, travel and Collegiate Summer League teams.

In the 1980s and ’90s he helped revive the Over-18 Westport Advertisers club, which barnstormed throughout New England.

After stepping back from coaching, Bob became a youth and school umpire. He called his last game well past his 80th birthday, finally retiring in 2020.

His family says, “One of Bob’s greatest journeys was forging and maintaining the path to sobriety, a journey for which he was often armed with vats of coffee for his regular meetings. He found great solace in his community, and was always willing to talk to and guide others navigating their own rock bottoms.”

In addition to Alice, Bob is survived by brother Christopher “Kit” of New York and Westport; sisters Jeremy of Philadelphia, Jude Anne of Norwalk, and Pam of Fairfield. He was predeceased by his youngest brother, Jeffrey.

He is also survived by sons Andrew (Francesca Gori-Montanelli), Evan (Margaret Mitchell-Jones), Charles and (Meg), and Robert H. III (Sylvia); stepdaughter Catherine (Sean Beaudoin), and stepsons James Lewis (Noel Casiano) and Tom (Kim), along with 8 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, spread across 4 continents, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

His decades-long companion and trusted aide, Henry Glasford of St. Kitts and Bridgeport, who stood by Bob’s side throughout his decline and into his final days, also survives.

A funeral service for Robert Haydon Jones Jr. will be held this Friday (November 22, 10 a.m.), at Assumption Church. 

After the service, his wife Alice will host a celebration of life gathering at her Fairfield home.

The family asks that any memorial donations inspired by Bob’s memory be directed to the study and treatment of Prader-Willi Syndrome, a cause to which he and Alice have dedicated decades to supporting themselves on behalf of their son Beau.

Bob Jones

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A dog, low tide, sunset … what could be more natural for our “Westport … Naturally” feature?!

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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And finally … in honor of the Westport Library’s “new” vinyl collection:

(Put a dime in the record machine … and a couple of bucks in for “06880” too. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Library, Obituaries, Sports

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GFA Welcomes Back Students — But Not Their Cell Phones

Posted on August 15, 2024 | 24 comments

Across America, schools are agonizing over what to do about cell phones.

Greens Farms Academy has made a decision. When school starts next month, they’ll be banned during school hours.

And smart watches, too.

The announcement came in a message to Upper School families and students this week, from head of school Bob Whelan.

He cited 2 reasons: the devices’ disruption of students’ focus and learning, and their “obstacle to our collective ability to create a more fully engaged learning community, especially one committed to connection and student well-being.”

Whelan notes, “despite real efforts to resist their pull, cell phones/smartwatches capture and hold attention with potent efficiency. Too often, this impedes students’ ability to be present and fully engaged in developing important relationships at school.

Studying hard? Or hardly studying?

“Additionally, while we recognize the many benefits of these devices, their pervasive presence throughout the academic day can significantly disrupt attention, eroding student focus and learning. Research shows that limiting cell phone use during school hours leads to better academic outcomes, a greater sense of student well-being, and a more positive school climate.”

After talking with schools that have adopted phone-free environments — and seen improvement in learning and engagement — GFA formulated a plan.

The school will provide each Upper School student with a Yondr pouch. As they enter the building, a staff member will lock their devices inside.

Students will keep the locked, magnetic storage bags in their backpack or locker, until the end of the day. As they leave, staff members — stationed at various exits — will unlock them.

Each student is responsible for bringing his or her Yondr pouch to and from school every day.

As Greens Farms Academy students stream into school this fall, they’ll begin a new routine: turning off, then locking their phones.

“We recognize that adapting to a cell phone/smartwatch-free environment will take some time for both students and parents,” Whelan wrote.

“We also understand that circumstances will arise that require parents to reach their child during the school day. Please be assured that parents can utilize the Upper School Office to pass on messages to students in a timely manner.”

Yesterday, Whelan expanded on the decision.

“My thinking has evolved,” he admitted.

“I used to think, ‘technology will be a feature of these kids’ lives. How can we help them understand and use it?'”

Greens Farms Academy head of school Bob Whelan

Over the past couple of years, however, he has been “haunted” by the realization that app developers engineer their products in an “incredibly compelling” way.

“We have a big responsibility to teenagers, at this crucial developmental stage when their brains are wiring themselves in the most significant way since they were toddlers,” he said.

“I don’t envy kids. They’re trying to develop relationships and skills, while competing with this incredibly powerful device.”

As he, his administrators, and GFA counselors, staff and athletic director studied the issue, they realized “it’s almost like kids are being held hostage to their devices. And we’re not serving them well if we enable this.”

Schools that have already implemented no-phone policies offered “reassurance,” Whelan said. “When everyone was away from their devices together, everyone felt better.”

After, of course, an initial “adaptation phase” of 1 1/2 to 2 weeks. Students at those schools “grudgingly” admitted they were glad to give up their phones.

And, Whelan was told, “schools become louder. As an educator, you should want that.”

Speaking of noise: GFA is thinking about students’ free time, without phones.

They’ve bought ping pong, spikeball, and board games like Uno. They’ll rely on the Student Council to come up with other ideas.

Anything is on the table — anything, that is, that involves eye contact and developing relationships.

When Whelan sent out his email, he added Frequently Asked Questions to address emergencies.

“All classrooms and offices have a phone that can call 911,” the document says.

“During classroom orientation, we will ensure that students are aware of the location of landline phones and what to do in the event of an emergency. Additional phones are available outside of the classrooms and throughout the building.”

It adds that school protocols “have been designed in partnership with local law enforcement and emergency services and are based on research and best practice related to school safety.

“The best thinking about safety, and common sense, recommends that students do not make individual calls, send texts, take videos or pictures, or engage in any other activities on their cell phones during an emergency.”

Students with a medical condition that is monitored via a phone or watch can work with the school nurse, GFA says.

Addressing concerns of parents whose youngsters “check in” with them during the day, the school offers some gentle advice:

Providing students with the opportunity to navigate the peaks and valleys of the academic day helps to build resilience — a valuable learning opportunity unto itself. We encourage students to partner with trusted adults in the Upper School to address challenges that may arise during a school day.

School counselors will help students — and parents — with the “skills and resources needed to navigate this transition.”

As for students who use phones to access their schedules, GFA notes: “All schedules are available in Veracross, which is accessible to each student through any computer.”

Another recommendation: printing out 2 copies of the schedule, one for themselves, another for their lockers.

Sometimes a high-tech problem can have a very low-tech solution.

New policy in place, at the Beachside Avenue school.

(“06880” covers education, technology, teenage life — and sometimes, like today, they all intersect. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Long Lots Update, Jimmy Pitaro, Piercings & Puppies …

Posted on May 1, 2024 | 4 comments

The Long Lots School Building Committee posted this update yesterday:

“On April 16, after a series of interviews over several weeks to assess qualifications (in particular, qualifications for the sustainability aspects of the project) and reviewing cost proposals, the Building Committee selected Newfield Construction to provide construction management services for the new Long Lots Elementary School, and Svigals & Partners to lead the architectural and engineering team, who will design the new school.

“These 2 firms, along with their consultants, will be recommended to the Board of Selectwomen for their approval.

“The next phase of this exciting project will occur over the next several months. It will be a 3-step process: schematic design, design development and, finally, Construction documents. This will lead to a set of documents that will be used to bid and then build the new school.

“The process will start with additional site testing (e.g., updating the survey, borings for geothermal testing, geotechnical and ground water information, etc.) and refining the site criteria with the design team, construction manager, town departments and the committee.

“Early on in the schematic design phase, a tentative schedule will be developed, allowing each of the town approval bodies and departments to know when information or decisions will be required. The schedule and cost estimates will be updated as we progress through this process.

“Each of these increasingly detailed steps in the design process will be shared with the public during the Building Committee’s meetings. Beyond our working public meetings, we expect to hold public informational meetings where the Building Committee and the architect will present progress drawings.

“We look forward to getting the consultants under contract, moving forward with the design process and keeping everyone updated on our progress.”

Plans for a new Long Lots Elementary School are moving forward. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Sports fans and entrepreneurs — and sports fans who are entrepreneurs — filled the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum last night, as Startup Westport honored Jimmy Pitaro with its first-ever Innovator of the Year Award.

Startup Westport is our town’s public-private tech entrepreneur partnership. Pitaro is ESPN’s creative, visionary CEO — and a Westporter.

He was interviewed onstage by ESPN host Mike Greenberg — a former Westporter.

The 2 bantered easily, and told stories of their careers. But Pitaro also delivered insights into the sports and media business with depth, breadth and humor.

Both also gave great shout-outs to Westport, as communities to raise families  and inspire them with its beauty, its active residents and its vibe.

The perfect ending came from a Bedford Middle School 6th grade student, who represents the future of sports broadcasting. It was an unexpected — but very innovative — finale, for the first of what will become an annual Startup Westport signature event.

Mike Greenberg (left) and Jimmy Pitaro. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

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Among the many important fundraisers this spring, there is no better venue than Harbor Watch’s “Cocktails & Clams” event (June 1, 5 to 7 p.m.).

It’s at Copps Island Oysters in Norwalk. Attendees get exclusive use of the fishing dock, with great views of Long Island Sound.

They’ll enjoy an unlimited raw bar (fresh off the boat), hors d’oeuvres from Seaside Sliders, drinks from an open bar and music from a jazz band.

Harbor Watch — which researches, monitors and improve water quality and ecosystem health in Connecticut — is affiliated with Earthplace.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Fetch Rescue and Rebel & Rose Tattoo join in a “Puppies & Piercing” event this Saturday (May 4, noon to 4 p.m., 155 Post Road East, 2nd floor).

There’s a special $70 price for ear piercing (plus jewelry and after-care) — along with rescue puppies, to give cuddles and find homes.

 

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Real Estate Outlook — an annual Fairfield County event co-sponsored by FLB Law, the Greater Norwalk Chamber and the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce — takes place May 22, 2024, at M& T Bank in The SoNo Collection.

This year’s theme is “Housing Matters: Challenges, Solutions and Impacts on Commercial Real Estate.” Networking begins at 8:30 a.m. A panel discussion follows at 9.

Eric Bernheim, head of FLB’s real estate and land use practice, will moderate. Among the panelists: David Waldman of David Adam Realty, developer of Westport’s Bedford Square.

Click here to register, and for more information.

Bedford Square developer David Waldman will discuss housing as it relates to commercial real estate on May 22. (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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The Greens Farms Academy Dragonoids Middle School robotics team has been in existence for only 3 months.

Yet they’ve already qualified for the Vex Robotics World Championships.

The team’s 7 students flew to Dallas recently, to compete in the 3-day competition. The 494 middle schools, from over 30 countries, qualified out of 20,000 teams.

After a very strong first-time showing, GFA won the sportsmanship award in their 80-team division.

Congratulations to the Dragonoids — Ben Kiev, Cooper Mleczko, Dylan Karpf, Liam Haverstick, Lucas Robinson, Mackenzie Bloom and Spencer Shiff — and coaches Nicholas Iacobelli and Berni Lally!

The Greens Farms Academy Dragonoids.

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Staples High School’s annual Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion is June 7.

Tickets are not yet available. But the Music Department is reaching out to local business owners for support, by purchasing ads in the program book.

Ad sales help cover concert expenses, and support the 400-plus students involved in Staples’ award-winning music program.

For details, email staples.music.parents.assn+ads@gmail.com.

Part of the large crowd at the Staples Pops Concert.

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“Seeking Home” — an original cantata for 2 guitars, drums, Native American flute and full choir, with music and score by Rev. Dr. Ed Thompson — will be presented on Sunday (May 5, 10 a.m., the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

Thompson is the UU’s minister of music. His cantata honors the over 5,000 missing and murdered indigenous women, children and their families in North America, on National Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Day.

The public is welcome.

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Speaking of church music: the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston hosts a jazz vespers service this Sunday (May 5, 4 p.m.).

Featured musicians include Anthony Pellegrini (saxophone), John Hoddinott (guitar), Eneji Alungbe (bass) and Larry Davis (drums).

Non-perishable food donations will be gratefully accepted.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today is the deadline for high school seniors to confirm college acceptances.

But not every graduate will — or should — go to a 4-year school.

A special event — “Finding Your Path: Exploring Post High School Options” — is set for May 14 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Vince Benevento — dounder and sirector of Causeway Collaborative — will discuss how high school students can plan for the future.

Representatives from the military, community college, vocational schools and apprenticeships will be on hand too

The US military is one option for high school graduates.

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Longtime Weston resident and volunteer Richard Amill died peacefully on April 19 in Norwalk, surrounded by his family. He was 91.

The New York City native graduated from Brown University in 1954. It was there that he met his wife Nancy Jayne. They married in 1955.

Rick spent his career in educational textbook publishing, with leadership positions at Time Inc., Silver-Burdett, Cowles Communications, Macmillan Publishers, Random House and McGraw-Hill. He launched Learning Supplements, a pioneer in K-12 digital learning.

Rick was an avid reader, from current events and history (especially anything about World War II) to novels by John Grisham.

He was a 25-plus year member, and past president, of the Kiwanis Club of Weston, where he established multiple lifelong friendships.

Rick passionately believed in children and the mission of helping others. He taught reading skills to students in Bridgeport, and mentored elementary, middle and high school students in Norwalk into his late 80s.

He volunteered at Norwalk Hospital’s Outpatient Surgical Center, emergency room and Whittingham Cancer Center into his 90s.

He also volunteered at the Connecticut Food Bank, Read Aloud Program, Norwalk Reads, Homes With Hope, Gillespie Center and Open Doors Shelter.

Rick was a lifelong New York Yankee fan. He attended hundreds of Yankee games, including spring training with his family. He passed his love of the sport and his enduring optimism to all who  knew him. He was a devoted father, grandfather and friend.

Rick was predeceased by his wife of 46 years, who died in 2001. He is survived by his sons Andrew (Susan) and Alexander (Jesstyne), daughter Sally, and grandchildren Ryan, Garrett, Sean, Kennison and Callie.

His family thanks the many caregivers who provided support, including the Whittingham Cancer Center, Norwalk Hospital, Waveny Care Center, Maplewood at Strawberry Hill and Constellation Health Services.

Services will be private. The family requests that donations in Rick’s memory be directed to Open Doors Shelter of Norwalk (www.opendoorsct.org).

Rick Amill

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We’ve featured plenty of flowers in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

But none have been shown as beautifully close-up as today’s image, on Manitou Road.

Thanks to photographer JD Dworkow, for a spectacular spring shot.

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

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And finally … Happy May!

(How to celebrate May Day? What about a contribution to “06880”! Please click here. We will thank you every day of the year.)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Obituaries

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Terrain, Longshore Inn Renovations Up For Review

Posted on April 16, 2024 | 3 comments

Upgrades to a pair of well-known Westport properties are on the agenda for next Tuesday’s Architectural Review Board Meeting (April 23, 7:30 p.m., Zoom).

Members will review a proposed façade modification and use of existing ancillary building for a floral studio and storage at 561 Post Road East.

That’s the small, gray 1900-era building — one of the last examples of a single-family house on the Post Road — owned by Terrain, at the corner of Crescent Road.

In 2011 — as part of its application process to open in town — Terrain agreed to preserve the house. They also promised not to use it for storage. That way, it would not count toward the number of parking spots needed.

In 2013, Terrain tried to gain 8 spaces by knocking down the house. The Planning & Zoning Commission denied their request.

For years, the house has been used for storage. Recently, Terrain replaced the roof.

The plan they’ll present to the ARB shows 642 square feet, where florists will build large custom planters for customers. The remaining 1,147 square feet would be used for storage.

The Terrain auxiliary building today (top), and the proposed renovation (bottom).

Renovations to the Inn at Longshore — long awaited, and much needed — are also on the ARB docket.

Interior work includes a new HVAC system, replacement of windows and doors, more guest rooms (and renovation of current rooms), updated ballroom and drawing rooms, updated lobby, completely remodeled kitchen, plumbing and electrical upgrades, and ADA compliance updates.

Architect Ken Nadler has proposed a new entrance with a porte cochère.

Other exterior renovations include a series of patios extending across the length of the building with access to the lawn and shoreline, new landscaping, upgraded exterior lighting and signage, and replacement of siding and roofing.

Site improvements also include a new drive entrance, enhanced parking, and a robust landscaping plan.

The current Inn at Longshore … (Photo/Amy Rizzuto Photography)

… and the proposed new look.

Enhanced patio behind La Plage restaurant.

A new terrace off the ballroom.

A third agenda item involves a much less visible property.

Greens Farms Academy plans an addition to an existing athletic facility, to include a fitness center, locker rooms and offices. The existing maintenance facility behind it would be demolished, with those offices relocated in the new building.

Artist’s rendering of Greens Farms Academy’s new athletic addition (right). The existing building is on the left.

(“06880” offers news from every part of town. But we can’t do it without reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Local business, Local politics, Longshore

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Roundup: Cross Highway Safety, StartUp Westport, National Charity League …

Posted on January 31, 2024 | 7 comments

For a quiet-seeming stretch of road, Cross Highway between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane sure sees a lot of action.

And accidents.

On February 8 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), engineers from the Public Works Department will hold a public information meeting to discuss traffic and safety improvements there.

The design phase of a project is mostly complete. Now comes construction.

At the meeting, attendees can review proposed improvements, and learn how the
town will implement them. There will be time too to ask questions about possible impacts to the neighborhood. In addition to PWD staff, the design engineer will be on hand.

Questions? Contact town engineer Keith Wilberg: kwilberg@westportct.gov; (203) 341-1128.

An all-too-common occurrence on Cross Highway at North Avenue. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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StartUp Westport — the town’s public/private partnership aimed at making Westport a tech entrepreneurial hub — has 2 very cool upcoming events.

And everyone is invited to be part of our town’s tech future.

On February 29 (6 p.m., Westport Library), “Past, Present and Future Opportunities for Diverse Entrepreneurs” is a great addition to Black History Month.

NBC news anchor/Westport resident Craig Melvin will moderate the discussion. StartUp Westport’s own Jay Norris leads the event, which is co-sponsored by Westport 10.

Local business leaders Kal Amin, Eric Freeman, Ilka Gregory, Craig Livingston, Adam Moore, Pamela Moss, Paige Parker, Ted Parker, Michele Peterso and Kitt Shapiro will share stories of their careers, and offer insights into launching and running a successful business in film/TV, music, real estate, retail, technology, food and beverage, and financial services.

The program begins with a video history of diverse business ownership in Fairfield County, and also includes a cocktail reception. Click here to register.

On March 18 (6:30 p.m. cocktail reception; 7 p.m. program, Westport Library), StartUp Westport presents a “Female Founders and Investors” forum. Co-hosts are Tidal River Fund, Connecticut’s first angel group and fund for women investors.

The event will be led by Westport-based financial services, personal finance and angel investing expert Galia Gichon, co-managing partner at Tidal River Fund.

Female founders and investors will share their experiences with fundraising for, investing in and launching early stage start-ups. Click here to register.

To join the StartUp Westport Linked In group, click here.

Craig Melvin, StartUp Westport moderator.

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Each year, the Westport National Charity League’s senior class completes a capstone project.

Since August, the Class of 2024 has planned theirs: renovating 4 bathrooms at Caroline House in Bridgeport.

Last weekend, they got to work.

The project received very generous support. Among others, Jason Raymond of Raymond Design Builders helped with preparation and professional final touches, while the Rings End/Benjamin Moore team in Westport donated paint and painting supplies. The generosity of the Westport community was shown by every individual and local business who assisted with this project.  It was beyond inspiring and made all the renovations possible.

Krisztina and Isabella Rivel volunteer at Caroline House.

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Looking for something to do in the hours before the Super Bowl?

Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella has organized a trash pick-up for Super Bowl Sunday (February 11).

Volunteers should meet at 11 a.m. at Grace Salmon Park, on Imperial Avenue. They’ll collect garbage from there to the Westport Library parking lot.

Dress warmly. Wear boots and gloves. Bring trash bags (and a picker, if you’ve got one).

Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Grace Salmon Park is a Westport favorite. But there’s garbage to pick up there, and nearby. (Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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For 33 years, the Greens Farms Academy Community Service Board, Concert Choir, and Harbor Blues and Beachside Express a cappella groups have organized “Harmony for the Homeless.” Performances include solos, small groups and large pieces.

The groups select an organization or specific family to support. Last year, for example, Harmony helped the Reyes family rebuild their lives after a fire destroyed their home.

This year, instead of ticket sales, Harmony will collect food donations for the Danbury Daily Bread food pantry. The goal is to fill an entire truck with goods.

The event is March 2 (7:30 p.m., Janet Hartwell Performing Arts Center at GFA).

Among the items requested: dried beans, rice (1- or 2-pound bags), cooking oil, tea, coffee, meals-in-a-can, baby food, snacks and treats for children, breakfast cereal (hot or cold), ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, hot sauce, cookies, crackers, sugar, flour, baking items like cake mix,

Also needed: shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, laundry detergent, household cleaning products, hand sanitizer, soap, paper towels, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, coloring books, crayons, inexpensive toys.


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Eva Amurri is getting married again.

And — as it did the first time — People Magazine is chronicling every moment of  the Westport actress’ nuptials.

Her first marriage was to 1999 Staples High School graduate/former professional soccer player/broadcaster/entrepreneur Kyle Martino. They divorced, but remain good friends as they co-parent their 3 children.

Now, Amurri — the daughter of actress Susan Sarandon and director Franco Amurri — is engaged to chef Ian Hock.

Click here for the full People magazine story. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

Eva Amurri and Ian Hock.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows a serene tableau at the 1921 Emily McLaury house on Myrtle Avenue:

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Congress passes the 13th Amendment to the US Constitution, abolishing slavery. It was then submitted to the states, for ratification.

How far have we come in 159 years? You be the judge.

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Local Programming Program Goes Global

Posted on July 28, 2023 | 3 comments

Neil Chaudhari started coding in 8th grade, the summer before entering Greens Farms Academy.

He knows he’s lucky. Many schools don’t teach computer science at all.

Computer literacy — including coding — are “so important,” Neil says.

“It teaches analytical thinking and problem solving. Those skills are imperative to any student’s success.:

So a couple of years ago he and a friend, William McGonagle, founded the Fairfield Programming Association.

Neil is now a rising senior. William graduated, and is at Georgetown University.

And FPA is flourishing.

Fairfield Programming Association members (from left): Owen Simon, Neil Chaudhari, William McGonagle, Uri Moon Rosha, Tristan Ebrahimi, Jamie Davis, Zoma Tessema.

The student-run non-profit organization provides young, underserved students with computer science educational opportunities.

The mission statement says: “The Fairfield Programming Association was founded on the belief that anyone can learn to program, if they were given the right resources. Together, we can end educational differences based on gender, race, nationality, religion, economic standpoint, or beliefs.”

The FPA runs dozens of programs: projects, partnerships, in-person events and more.

They include the Learn Platform — a free, open source platform currently in development that will enable anyone to learn computer-related ideas, programming, electrical engineering and math — as well as a partnership with Preponderous Software and Unity Software, to create open source games and learning materials.

The FPA has partnered with the Adam J. Lewis Academy in Bridgeport, for weekly programming sessions with 4th graders.

A computer science class for kids.

FPA is entirely volunteer-run. Because it’s web-based, they’ve recruited help from all over the world. Volunteers come from as far away as Bangladesh.

Classes are global too. FPA teaches students in India.

And local. The organization is working with St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, to offer computer science to youngsters in Stamford.

The Fairfield Programming Association has grown quickly, in many directions. Right now, Neil is looking for volunteers — people with experience in programming — along with sponsors, and equipment.

To learn more, click here. For more information, email Neil: chaudharineil@fairfieldprogramming.org.

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Posted in Education, technology

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Horizons Limitless For GFA

Posted on May 22, 2023 | 4 comments

It’s a long way — by every measure except physical distance — from Greens Farms Academy to the Bridgeport public schools.

But for nearly a quarter century, the elite private school has bridged those gaping academic, financial and resource gaps.

Thanks to the time, talent and energy of GFA staff, students and parents — and the enthusiastic participation of their city counterparts — a strong, productive partnership links Beachside Avenue and Broad Street.

Christina Whittaker — executive director of Horizons GFA — describes it succinctly: “a pre-K through college, outside of school, tuition-free enrichment academic program for Bridgeport students.”

Enjoying the Greens Farms Academy campus.

Horizons is a national program. Greens Farms Academy is one of 60 affiliates.

It’s hard to imagine a more active or far-reaching one than theirs.

From a modest start 24 years ago, Horizons GFA has grown to a 3-pronged, year-round effort, with over 330 current participants.

The pre-K through 8th grade program runs primarily in summer. For 6 weeks, nearly 200 youngsters spend Mondays through Thursdays at GFA. Mornings are devoted to academics, and a social emotional learning (SEL) curriculum developed at Harvard especially for the school.

Learning in the morning …

Afternoons are devoted to activities like sports, swimming, cooking, gardening and dance.

Fridays are for field trips. Popular destinations include the Connecticut Science Center and Mystic Aquarium.

… and a Friday visit to the aquarium.

Parents apply Horizons before their children enter kindergarten.

“Because they are with us for 16 or 18 years — through college — we want to make sure it’s a good fit,” Whittaker explains. “We learn about their hopes and reams.”

The application process includes interviews. The application form is in English and Spanish

In high school, each Horizons participant is paired with a “coach” — a Bridgeport public school teacher, counselor or social worker.

Once a week at Horizon’s Bridgeport office, they work on the Harvard-designed SEL curriculum, and whatever else the student needs, like help with a school project or job application.

Content-specific tutoring is available too, along with college counseling.

Horizons also offers special workshops: transition to high school for 9th graders; career exploration for sophomores; SAT preparation junior year, and FAFSA/scholarship information for seniors.

High school graduation.

Horizons has a 100% high school graduation rate, and 100% post-secondary enrollment. Two-thirds of students go to 4-year colleges; one-third enter community college or vocational training programs.

The summer after graduation, students take part in a transition-to-college workshops.

Once in college, students check in monthly with Horizons staff. They cover 4 areas: personal well-being, academics, finances and “employability.”

The goal is for all students to have a job, or be in grad school, within a year of college graduation. Horizons’ first “class” graduated in 2020. They, and the classes after them, all have 100% success rates.

Proud college graduates.

Horizons is “a very strong community,” Whittaker says proudly. “Once people enter, they tend not to leave.”

Two alums have become program coaches. One teacher has been involved for 20 summers.

Whittaker herself is a former Horizons volunteer. She started as a GFA middle schooler.

Christina Whittaker

That experience sparked her passion for education. After college, Christina taught at Bridgeport’s Harding High School, and worked in Horizon’s summer program. In 2018 she joined Horizons GFA full time. Now she’s the director.

She is inspired by the “results, commitment and partnership with students and families. I’ve known some of the students since 2012. It’s been so great to see what they’ve accomplished.”

Greens Farms Academy’s contributions to Horizons are profound. They provide full use of their campus each summer, and some Saturdays during the year. GFA staff and parents serve on the board and committees. Many students volunteer too.

All funding is private, through donations and grants. This year’s budget is $1.85 million.

There are 2 major fundraisers: a golf event (upcoming June 5 at the Country Club of Fairfield) and fall gala (November 17 at The Knowlton).

After years of quietly supporting Horizons, GFA wants more people to know about the program. Visitors are welcome on select days in July; click here for details.

Nearing the quarter-century mark, Greens Farms Academy’s Horizons — and the horizons of scores of Bridgeport students — are limitless.

(To learn more about Horizons GFA, click here.)

(“06880” covers all Westport schools, public and private. Your help helps us. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

Bright Horizons, for these children.

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Posted in Children, Education, Teenagers

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“06880” Podcast: Bob Whelan

Posted on March 21, 2023 | 1 comment

Greens Farms Academy head of school Bob Whelan is one of the most fascinating people I know.

For example: Before he joined the independent school world, he was a rock star.

Literally.

The other day, Bob and I sat in the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum. We chatted about teenagers, younger kids, college pressure, GFA’s place in the community and commitment to inclusivity, his famous “snow day” videos — and of course, rock ‘n’ roll.

Click below for our wide-ranging conversation. In the spirit of education, you’ll do what I did: learn a lot.

 

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Roundup: Snow Day (!), Energy Rates, Real Estate …

Posted on February 9, 2023 | 2 comments

No snow this winter means no snow days.

Unless you’re at private school.

Heads there have far greater leeway than public school principals to make unilateral decisions like hey, in the middle of a snowless winter, their students (and staffs) still need an unexpected break.

Greens Farms Academy head Bob Whelan has set the gold standard with his snow day videos.

This year he prepared another classic. But with no snow — and none in the forecast — it looked like he’d never get to post it.

Boarding schools have a tradition of “head of school day.” GFA is a day school, but the idea sounded great.

Voilà!

Click below to see how GFA students and parents got the news that this coming Monday is a “Snowless Snow Day.”

Public school students: See you in class.

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Monday’s “Energy Rates Town Hall” at the Westport Library included State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Anne Hughes. The meeting covered price hikes from Eversource and United Illuminating.

Missed the meeting? Click below to see:

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Every few months since 2017, alert “06880” reader Bob Weingarten counts the number of “For rent/lease” or “For sale” properties on Post Road East and West.  He does not survey Main Street, Riverside Avenue or other commercial parts of town.

His most recent count includes 2 bank buildings, another former bank that was rented last year as a health facility, an entire office complex, rentals within other office buildings, small retail stores, a gas station and more.

The count usually varies between 50 and 72 properties. The current count: 56.

(Photos/Bob Weingarten)

(Graph courtesy of Bob Weingarten)

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The Westport Police Department reports 3 custodial arrests for the February 2-8 period.

One person was charged with larceny, credit card theft and identity theft, after a purse was stolen.

The other two people were charged with failure to appeaar.

Due to a change in the department’s reporting system, citations were not available for this reporting period.

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Justin Paul is heading back to Broadway.

The 2003 Staples High School graduate — who, with his songwriting partner Benj Pasek won a Tony Award in 2017 for “Dear Evan Hansen,” and another last year as producers for “A Strange Love” — will see their Oscar-winning film “La La Land” adapted for the stage. An opening date has not been announced.

The 2016 movie starred Emma Sone and Ryan Gosling, as they pursued their dreams in Los Angeles. Click here for the full story.

Justin Paul (left) and Benj Pasek, moments after learning they’d won a Golden Globe for writing the lyrics to “La La Land.”

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A reminder: Materials are being collected for Ukraine at today’s Farmers’ Market (Thursday, February 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane).

Items needed include gently used winter coats, mittens, hats, gloves and rain gear. Cash contributions to help with shipping costs are welcome too.

 

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch and Learn” webinar is called “Advancing the Habitat Gardening Movement, One Yard at a Time.”

It’s Friday, February 17 (noon to 1 p.m.). Missy Fabel and Dave Baker of Plan it Wild, a sustainable landscaping and design company specializing in ecological design, will share new trends in native landscaping that can transform a yard into a beautiful native habitat that increases biodiversity, captures carbon and absorbs storm water.

Click here to register.

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Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities’ Parent Conference this Saturday (February 11, Winston Preparatory School, 57 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)  goes to the heart of that great organization’s work: providing resources parents need to help their children succeed in school and beyond. 

Eleven presentations cover a variety of topics, plus a special webinar: “Making Math Accessible for Students with Learning Disabilities” by Randy Ewart, The “CT SPED Math Dude.”

The day ends with a youth panel. “LD and ADHD from the Student’s Perspective” features 6 students, from 7th grade to post-college. They’ll describe how they learned to cope with their challenges. It’s inspiring — and meaningful to parents who have trouble imagining futures for their kids. 

Catering will be done by The Porch at Christie’s and Sweet P Bakery. Both offer training and employment to adults with disabilities.

Click here for more information, and registration. Financial assistance is available; email christine@smartkidswithld.org.

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The Representative Town Meeting seeks candidates for a District 8 representative, to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Lisa Newman.

It must be filled by a registered voter residing in RTM District 8. No party affiliation is required, as Westport’s RTM is non-partisan. The term expires November 21, 2023.

Residents of RTM District 8 interested in being considered should send a resume by February 22 to town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: JDunkerton@westportct.gov.

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50-year YMCA veteran, avid Y’s Men member and former popular Staples High School substitute teacher Marvin Goldstein died Tuesday, from complications after open heart surgery in September. He was 88 years old.

Born on New York’s Lower East Side, he grew up in Brooklyn. He was a lifelong member of the Brownsville Boys Club, where he created friendships lasting more than 7 decades.

Marvin was a dedicated runner, with Pequot Running Club. His joys were his family and friends, music, theater, and traveling the world. He felt blessed in having a life filled with love and connection.

He lost his wife Chic Goldstein of 43 years, but lived with his daughter and family in Westport for the past 10 years.

Marvin is survived by his daughters Lee Goldstein (Charlie Dockter) and Beth Muller (Kurt), 3 granddaughters and 3 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and family at Lee’s house (31 Greenlea Lane) this Saturday and Sunday (February 11-12, noon to 4 p.m.). A celebration of Marv’s life will be held this spring. In lieu of flowers, people consider a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Marvin Goldstein

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Peter McCann — leader of the popular 1960’s local band Repairs, who went on to become a successful singer, songwriter and activist for songwriters’ rights — died on January 26.

Former Staples High School media instructor Mike Zito offers a radio tribute to Peter today (Thursday, February 9) on WPKN (89.5 FM, 2 p.m.). It includes interviews with former band members, including longtime Staples media instructor Jim Honeycutt.

A Bridgeport native, Peter and Repairs recorded 3 records on Motown with Rolling Stones producer Andrew Loog Oldham. Peter went on to write songs like “Right Time of the Night” and “Do You Want To Make Love.” Whitney Houston, Isaac Hayes, KT Oslin, Buck Owens, Mickey Gilley, Michael McDonald and Jennifer Warnes were some of the performers who covered Peter’s songs.

Peter McCann

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo brings a bit of optimism to anyone tired (okay, exhausted) of winter.

Rick Benson spotted these sprouts at Winslow Park.

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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And finally … if you’re an old fan of the band Repairs (see Peter McCann’s obituary above), click below for a great trip down memory lane.

If you never heard of them, click below to see what you missed.

(If you enjoy the “06880” daily Roundup — an ever-changing smorgasbord of stuff — please consider a donation. Click here to help — and thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Obituaries

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Roundup: SHS Girls, GFA Boys Soccer Champs; 3 Pastors, Arline Gertzoff …

Posted on November 21, 2022 | 5 comments

A year ago, the Staples girls soccer team won the state championship — and were disappointed.

It was actually a shared title, after a 0-0 draw with Wilton.

The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) changed the rule this year, adding penalty kicks if the final was tied after regulation.

The Wreckers had no need for that. Annabel Edwards’ true hat trick — 3 straight goals — in just 6:36 at the start of the 2nd half broke open a 1-0 game yesterday. The blue-and-whites cruised to their 2nd consecutive state “LL” (extra large schools) title, and 3rd in their history, yesterday at Trinity Health Stadium in Hartford. The #3-seeded Westporters slammed #1-ranked Cheshire, 4-1.

Staples finishes the season 12-6-4. The loss was the first for the Rams (21-1-1), who got their lone goal with 9 minutes remaining.

Edwards’ selection as Most Valuable Player of the Match was a no-brainer.

She had plenty of help though. Natalie Chudowsky — who missed part of the season with US national U-15 team duty — scored the first goal. Her sister Evelyn assisted on 2 of Edwards’ strikes

Coach Barry Beattie has built a dynasty. And it looks like it will continue: Edwards is just a sophomore. Evelyn Chudowsky is a junior. And Natalie Chudowsky is only a freshman.

Congratulations to all of Staples’ newest state champs!

2022 state champion Staples High School girls soccer team. (Photo/David G. Whitham, courtesy of The Ruden Report)

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The Staples girls were not the only soccer champions crowned yesterday.

Greens Farms Academy captured the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council New championship yesterday in their division. The #7 Dragons handed #1-ranked Vermont Academy only their second loss of the season, in Lancaster, Massachusetts.

The match was tied 1-1 after overtime, and went to penalty kicks. Keeper Matt Maged saved 2 shots, clinching the win.

It was an equally dramatic season for coach Chris Mira’s GFA side. Ten games in, they were 4-6. They turned it around, finishing 11-7-2.

Maged is one of 6 Westport players on the championship squad. Others are Jared Buckman, Aidan Spellacy, Aneesh Roy and Oscar Nelson. Andrew Salem is from Weston.

Congratulations to all the Dragons!

Greens Farms Academy, NESPAC champs. (Photo/Amy Buckman)

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Three ministers — an Episcopalian, a Methodist and a Congregationalist — walk into a high school auditorium to see a play about saving gamblers’ souls …

No, it’s not a joke. It happened Saturday night.

John Betit (Christ & Holy Trinity), Heather Sinclair (United Methodist) and Alison Patton (Saugatuck Church) were all at the final performance of Staples Players’ (fantastic) production of “Guys & Dolls.”

They were not there to see whether the sisters at the Save a Soul Mission succeed. (Spoiler alert: They do.)

The pastors were there for personal — not professional — reasons. All 3 have at least 1 son or daughter in the show.

After final bows, the clergy trio went on stage. They memorialized the show, their kids — and their work — with a classic photo:

From left: Rev. John Betit, Rev. Heather Sinclair, Rev. Alison Patton. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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The very moving and very personal memorial service for Arline Gertzoff — the United Nations and Democratic Party activist, Representative Town Meeting member and proud Staples High School graduate who died in September — is now online.

The event was held earlier this month, at Town Hall. Click below to honor Arline. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Noelle Anastasia of Fairfield, formerly of Westport, died unexpectedly last week. She was 32 years old.

Born on on Christmas Day in 1989, she grew up in Westport.

She sang in the Bedford Middle School choir, and was an altar server at Assumption Church. Throughout her life, Noelle kept her faith close to her heart. She also loved to cook.

She studied at Norwalk Community College, and planned to return to school.

Her family says, “Noelle had a kind soul and a deeply loving heart. More than anything, she loved her daughters Isabella, 5, and Ella, 3. They were the lights and loves of her life. She loved her stepson, Jesus, and was proud of all he accomplished. Her family was the cornerstone of her life, but Noelle also cared for those who needed it. She gave freely of herself, of her time and energy, to help when help was needed. This generosity of spirit extend to animals. Noelle took in kittens that needed a home.”

In addition to her children Noelle is survived by her parents, David and Michellel her husband Jesus; sisters Denise and Nicole; brother Steven; nieces Michayla, Dianna, Marissa, Danniella and Briannal nephews Matthew, Tyler and Jace, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial is set for tomorrow (Tuesday November 22, 11 a.m., Assumption Church).

Noelle Anastasia

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Mud is as much a part of “Westport … Naturally” as anything else.

Jonathan Prager captured a lot of it, in this photo with an autumn sun.

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … Danny Kalb, a guitarist with the under-appreciated Blues Project band — died Saturday in Brooklyn. He was 80, and had battled cancer for 3 years.

As Mark Smollin notes in his book “The Real Rock & Roll High School,” the Blues Project first played in Westport in 1966. The setting was the Staples High School cafeteria — for the junior prom.

A year later, they were booked for two 50-minute sets in the Staples auditorium. with an intermission. But when they were detained in New York — finishing up a recording session — promoter (and Staples student) Dick Sandhaus talked theier manager, Sid Bernstein (of early Beatles fame) into sending Richie Havens to open the show.

After an hour, Havens was running out of material. So Bernstein had Jeremy Steig & the Satyrs drive up — at his own expense — to do a very long set until the Blues Project arrived.

At 11:30 the Blues Project finally took the stage. Half an hour later they were shut down, by a midnight curfew. Click here for a full obituary.

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, religion, Sports, Staples HS

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