Tag Archives: Prospect Gardens

Roundup: Sebastian Lauterbach, Staples Sports, Prospect Gardens …

Posted on June 9, 2024 | 7 comments

Many “06880” readers were moved to tears by last Friday’s “Flashback.”

Appearing the day after D-Day, it noted that 7 members of that year’s 88-student Class of 1944 had joined the military.

A special surprise at graduation was the appearance — in full uniform — of Airman Sebastian (Sebby) Lauterbach. He arrived in time to march to the stage for the ceremony.

Several months later he became one of 2 members of that class killed in combat.

Robert Gerrity — a Staples grad now living in Oregon — wanted to learn more. He found this online:

Private Sebastian Lauterbach Jr. served with the 78th Infantry Division, 311th Infantry Regiment,

He was killed in action on January 3, 1945. He was 19 years old.

He earned a Purple Heart, among other honors. He is buried or memorialized in the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten.

The Lauterbach family is well known in this area. We are honored to remember him today.

Pvt. Sebastian Lauterbach Jr.

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All hail Staples’ newest state champs: the boys rugby team.

The Wreckers trounced rival Greenwich 29-7 yesterday, at Southern Connecticut State University.

The victory was even sweeter because the Cardinals beat Staples earlier this year, in the first match of the season.

Congratulations to coach Jack Corcoran, and his young men. They stand at the top of the state, in one of the toughest sports on the planet.

Wearing state champion shirts, the Staples rugby team poses with their trophy and banner. (Photo/Terry Brannigan)

Meanwhile, the end of the road came for the Staples baseball team in Middletown.

The Wreckers fell 9-1 to Amity-Woodbridge, in the state “LL” (extra large schools) championship game.

It was a tough loss. But the Westporters held their heads high. Ranked 19th in the tourney, they were beaten by the #4 squad.

And it was Staples’ second straight trip to the championship. They made it all the way there last year too. They lost to Fairfield Warde.

Congratulations to coach Jack McFarland and his team, on an outstanding year.

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Also yesterday: Prospect Gardens’ open house.

Folks who have long admired the beautiful property on Prospect Road got a chance to wander through its 9 acres, and see it close up. The event was part of the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program.

Guests enjoyed the Mediterranean graveled entry garden, 2 orchards, stone-tiered vegetable garden, blueberry and raspberry houses, beehives, sunny perennial garden, shady perennial woodland walk, conifer collection, flowering shrub and grass borders, Japanese-inspired meditation garden and maple collection, 2 pools, containers featuring citrus and cacti, glasshouse, sculpture, amphitheater and perennial/native wildflower meadow.

John and Melissa Ceriale’s vision — brought to life by garden designer Cindy Shumate — looks magical from the street.

Walking through it is an experience of a lifetime.

Prospect Gardens (Photos/Frank Rosen)

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65 Jesup Road — the handsome “Godillot Carriage House” near Imperial Avenue — is for sale.

Built in 1882, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the one-time Westport Public Schools office (before they moved to Town Hall) was sold to a law office in 1985. It has been used for that purpose for nearly 40 years.

Zoning allows changing part of the building to 1 or more residential units, provided for no more than 25% of the building area. A single market residential unit is permitted as of right. Multiple units would have to comply with the
20% affordable housing requirement. (Hat tip: Cynthia Nigro)

65 Jesup Road

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Speaking of downtown: You may not have known that yesterday was World Wide Knit in Public Day.

I sure didn’t.

But the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport sponsored a meet-up at the Library Riverwalk.

Jan Braunle of Bridgeport (left, photo below) and Marjolijn de Jager of Stamford enjoyed the day, and each other’s company.

And their knitting.

(Hat tip and photo/Frank Rosen)

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f you missed the first showing of Homes with Hope’s 40th anniversary documentary: Don’t miss the next one.

It’s this afternoon: Sunday, June 9, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall.

The free event showcases the non-profit’s 4 decades of housing the homeless, feeding the hungry, and offering hope to neighbors whose lives are not as fortunate as others’.

Former Westporter Livio Sanchez’s documentary film uses interviews and archival material (including long-ago video), to trace Homes with Hope’s history, from a controversial concept (with plenty of NIMBY and it’s-not-our-problem opposition), through its move from a drafty firehouse to an old maintenance shed on Jesup Road (now the Gillespie Center), and its current array of multi-pronged programs.

Jim Gillespie’s family will be honored at the showing. He played a major role in the founding and development of the Interfaith Housing Association, the original iteration of Homes with Hope.

The Gillespie Center was named in his honor Dr. Gillespie, a clinical psychologist, was killed when struck by a car in France in 1988.

The Gillespie Center. Dr. Gillespie’s family will be on hand June 9, for the showing of a documentary on Homes with Hope’s first 40 years.

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Later this month, Cleveland NPR station WKSU will broadcast and livestream “Lady at the Helm: Lillian Wald and the Nurses’ Emergency Council.”

Why should Westporters care (and listen)?

The famed nurse/humanitarian/author/human rights activist — who campaigned for suffrage, founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York, and helped start the NAACP — lived for many years on Round Pond, off Compo Road South.

Eleanor Roosevelt was a frequent visitor here.

Set in 1918, the WKSU story describes Wald’s struggle to turn New York into a sprawling field hospital, amid the world’s deadliest influenza.

The story also focuses on Black female nurses and their determination to serve, despite being barred from service during World War I.

There is another Westport connection: Funding was provided by the Betty R. Sheffer Foundation, honoring the longtime Westport philanthropist.

The Lillian Wald story airs on June 19, at 9 p.m. Click here for the livestream.

Lillian Wald’s house today.

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There are many great outdoor wedding spots in Westport. Longshore is the obvious one.

Other people get married on a beach, or in back yards.

The Westport Woman’s Club is a wonderful venue too.

Amy Schneider snapped this shot yesterday, as wedding preparations began:

Westport Woman’s Club. (Amy Schneider)

She could not take a similar image next week.

Unless a couple wants to get hitched in the middle of the Yankee Doodle Fair.

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This visitor to St. John Place stopped long enough to pose for a “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Okay, maybe he was moving at his own pace. I don’t know.

But it is a very cool looking shot.

(Photo/Carol Anne Ances)

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And finally … a beautiful song, for beautiful Prospect Gardens (story above):

(As we do every day, “06880” keeps you informed about Westport’s history; environmental, sport and real estate news, upcoming events, and much more. Please click here to support our work.)

7 Comments

Posted in Environment, History, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged 65 Jesup Road, Homes With Hope, Lillian Wald, Prospect Gardens, Sebastian Lauterbach, Staples baseball, Staples High School boys rugby, Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, Westport Woman's Club

Garden Tour: An Intriguing Prospect

Posted on June 7, 2024 | Comments Off

Every day — but particularly in springtime — Westporters drive past Prospect Gardens, and marvel at its beauty.

The property, on Prospect Road in Greens Farms, includes nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more.

For over 20 years John and Melissa Ceriale bought adjacent land. Working with the very talented garden designer Cindy Shumate, they created a magical oasis, stretching far and wide.

Looking northeast, on the Ceriales’ property.

Usually, that street view is all that most people see.

But this Saturday (June 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Prospect Gardens is open to the public.

It’s part of the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program.

Mature deciduous and evergreen trees create a sweeping canvas, providing a sense of scale, shape and texture.

Key features include a Mediterranean graveled entry garden, 2 orchards, a stone-tiered vegetable garden, blueberry and raspberry houses, beehives, a sunny perennial garden, shady perennial woodland walk, conifer collection, flowering shrub and grass borders, a Japanese-inspired meditation garden and maple collection, 2 pools, containers featuring citrus and cacti, a glasshouse, an internationally renowned sculpture, and a 1-acre perennial/native wildflower meadow.

The most recent addition is a 4-tiered amphitheater, with a stone-medallioned stage.

Pyramid grasses on Prospect Road.

Shumate will be on site all day, explaining the wonders of the land, answering questions and describing Prospect Gardens’ evolution, from just 1 acre in 1996 to today.

She’ll be joined by Judy Gardner of Gardener’s Touch. The perennials expert created 3 specialty gardens plus the containers.

Gabriele Kallenborn will talk about the reproductive cycle of bees, and their importance.

Paul Sztremer of Wildflower Grounds Management will discuss how he and his crew keep the place pruned, planted, fed and weed-free.

Click here for tickets ($10 each), and more information.

One more view of Prospect Gardens.

(“06880” offers a window into Westport’s environmental life — and so much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Garden Tour: An Intriguing Prospect

Posted in Environment

Tagged Cindy Shumate, Melissa and John Ceriale, Prospect Gardens

Roundup: Fireworks Trash, Long Lots, Prospect Gardens …

Posted on June 30, 2023 | 8 comments

Thousands of people had a blast at last night’s fireworks.

There was wonderful community spirit. Friends met; strangers mingled; joy filled the air.

The one downside: Not everyone picked up after themselves.

Totney Benson notes: “Substantial debris was left behind. Most impressive was the carefully piled and bagged trash and pizza boxes a mere 15 steps from the trash bins!”

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

So Public Works and Parks & Recreation Department employees were out in force, all night long and right through dawn, making sure Compo Beach and Soundview Drive look perfect for the weekend.

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

Thanks to all who helped — those who cleaned up after themselves, and those who cleaned up after those who did not.

And if you left a mess: Just think about the message you sent to Westport.

Especially to your kids.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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The Long Lots School Building Committee posted this on Facebook:

“The LLS Building is working through the feasibility phase of the project. The committee, along with an architectural design firm and construction management company, is still evaluating and discussing all three options for the future of LLS.

“Options include: 1) Renovate the existing school as new, 2) Renovate the existing school as new plus build additions, or, 3) Build a new school building. With all three options, the existing school needs to remain open and in use during construction.

“No recommendations or decisions regarding how to proceed have been made. The committee expects to make a recommendation to the Selectwoman’s office in August.

“The committee is taking great care to evaluate all aspects of the site to find the ideal location for a new building or additions, while respecting the residential neighborhood, maintaining town fields, ensuring adequate parking, and preserving or relocating town assets such as the community gardens – it is a challenging balance!

“While the school is the priority, the committee fully appreciates the beauty and value of the community gardens, as well as the importance of town fields and maintaining a symbiotic relationship with neighbors. At this point, the committee is considering all options before making its recommendation. We know the town governing bodies and Westport residents would want and expect nothing less.

“The LLSBC will hold its next scheduled meeting on Friday, June 30 at 10 a.m. All Building Committee meetings are noticed on the Town website. The public is welcome to attend and there is time for public comment/questions at the meetings.”

The Long Lots Elementary School campus. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Westport celebrated the 4th of July with fireworks last night, on June 29th.

But there are still 5 days to go until the holiday. And many Westporters will be thinking of more pyrotechnics.

Westport Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “The public has been overwhelmed with advertisement, signs, and sales pitches of so-called fireworks. The only legal ‘fireworks’ items in Connecticut are sparklers.

Sparklers are non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic material. They can be legally used only by persons aged 16 or older.”

Novelty items like party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. In addition to being illegal, exploding devices can cause painful, debilitating injuries.

Sky lanterns (small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a small fire burns) are also illegal in Connecticut. They can cause fires and injury. The flaming lantern can travel long distances and drop onto roof tops, fields, trees and power lines.

Our area has experienced dry conditions, making it very easy for fireworks, sparklers and fountains to cause brush fires. Extreme caution must be exercised even with campfires, as the fire danger has been elevated.

Possessing or causing to explode fireworks can result in a fine or incarceration.

Sparklers are legal — but only for people 16 and older. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between June 21 and 28.

A woman was arrested for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, identity theft and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

A companion had been arrested on similar charges earlier. They stemmed from the complaint of a First County Bank customer, after a fraudulent check of hers was cashed for $2,940. Her car had been broken into, and her purse stolen.

Police also issued these citations:

Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4 citations
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Larceny: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Driving with a foreign license for more than 30 days: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Violation of readable plates: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to drive right: 1

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Over 30 Y’s Men of Westport & Weston members, and their guests, were treated to a tour of Prospect Gardens on Wednesday.

Owners Melissa and John Ceriale welcomed the visitors, who were led by curator/landscape designer/master planner Cindy Shumate.

The Prospect Road property includes nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more.

Y’s Men and guests, at Prospect Gardens. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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If you missed Alison Stewart’s WNYC “All of It” interview about the Westport Library’s first-in-the-nation record label vinyl release — no problem.

You can hear it — including an interview with sound engineer Travis Bell, artist Dani Capalbo, and some of the music recorded at the Library’s Verso Studio — by clicking here.

Travis Bell, at work.

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The year is winding down for the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club. On Wednesday, new president Liz Wong was inducted.

They’re still smiling over last weekend’s Great Duck Race. More than 3,000 plastic ducks “competed,” raising more than $70,000 that the club will donate to charities.

Here’s the entire event, in just 42 seconds:

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Stacy Prince offers an intriguing close-up, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Stacy Prince)

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And finally … Bobby Osborne, a singer and mandolin player whose bluegrass band flouted convention by using drums, electric bass, pedal steel guitar, twin banjos and string sections — and were the first to amplify their instruments — died Tuesday near Nashville. He was 91.

The Osborne Brothers are best known for their 1967 record, “Rocky Top.” Click here for full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Police

Tagged fireworks, Long Lots Elementary School, Prospect Gardens, Sunrise Rotary Club, Verso Studios, Westport Fire Department, WNYC, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: Baseball, Tennis, Gardens …

Posted on June 11, 2023 | 2 comments

The road to the state championship ended one run short — and 3 innings extra — yesterday for the Staples High School baseball team.

The Wreckers’ Hiro Wyatt and Fairfield Warde’s Griffin Polley dueled brilliantly — and scorelessly — for much of the game. In the end — the 10th inning — Polley drove home the Mustangs’ winning run, in a 2-1 contest at Palmer Field in Middletown that was even closer than the score. It was the 2nd straight state title for the Fairfielders.

Congratulations to the Wreckers, and coach Jack McFarland, on their great run to the ultimate game of the season.

Hiro Wyatt — the Connecticut Gatorade Player of the Year — had a heroic season on the mound for Staples. (Photo courtesy of Staples Baseball)

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Congratulations too to Staples’ number 1 doubles team. Karenna Birns and Audrey Kercher won the State invitational championship Friday, at the Milford Indoor Tennis Club.

The #3-ranked pair defeated Fairfield Ludlowe’s top seed 6-4, 6-3. They also won the semifinals in straight sets, over #3 Amity-Woodbridge.

Karenna heads to Georgetown University in the fall, and Audrey to the University of Florida. Congratulations to both — and to coach Jena Wider.

Audrey Kircher and Karenna Birns: state champs!

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Speaking still of Staples: Westport photographer Tom Kretsch just returned from a tour/workshop in Washington state.

Walking around Pullman, he spotted pictures in many stores of the high school graduates, in windows and on signs.

He wonders if it’s something we could replicate in Westport.

Sounds like something to investigate. And it sure would be less intrusive than the epidemic of signs that sprawls all along the entrances to Staples, for every team and activity imaginable, which no one can even read.

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And speaking again of baseball: The Westport Winners Challenger team, for players with disabilities, ended their 10th season yesterday with a special event.

A big party included player announcements and personalized trophies, plus free ice cream gift cards from The Porch at Christie’s.

Scenes from yesterday’s Westport Winners party. Coach Mike Connors (top left) has been with the program since it began in 2013.

The Little League Challenger division is one of the best sports programs in Westport. Congratulations to all who participate — and all who make it happen!

The Challenger crew. (Photo and hat tip/Beth Cody)

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Today is the open house at Prospect Gardens.

The public is invited to the magnificent Greens Farms property (Sunday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; GPS either 13 or 25 Prospect Road).

Besides 9 acres of beauty and joy, Prospect Gardens offers something else.

Last year, the Greens Farms Garden Club has assumed responsibility for the 3-tiered vegetable garden, for their Growing For Good program.

Owners John and Melissa Ceriale turned over the space for their effort. All produce is donated to the Mercy Center in Bridgeport, at time serving as the only source of fresh produce for some of families.

Last year, the Greens Farms Garden Club donated over 1,600 pounds of vegetables. It’s a win-win-win: for the Ceriales, the Club, and Mercy Learning Center.

A small part of Prospect Gardens.

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The Westport Rotary Club is one of our town’s true jewels. Members never stop giving.

Earthplace director Tony McDowell (with trash bag) and other Rotarians hard at work, at the Gillespie Center. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Registration is open for the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s annual Point to Point Compo Beach swim (July 16, 7:30 a.m.).

The annual open water race raises funds to benefit aquatics safety at the Y, through swim lessons for children and adults.

There are prizes for top finishers — and a kids race too.

Pre-registration is $60; day of registration, $75. Click here for details.

The start of the Point-to-Point swim.

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America celebrates Groundhog Day on February 2.

Except here on “06880,” where today — June 11 — it’s “Westport … Naturally Groundhog Day.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this day in 2002, “American Idol” premiered on the Fox network.

This became the best-selling song to come out of the show:

And this song has been covered the most:

(Be a sport! Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Environment, Sports, Staples HS, YMCA

Tagged Greens Farms Garden Club, Hiro Wyatt, Little League Challenger Program, Melissa and John Ceriale, Mercy Learning Center, Prospect Gardens, Staples High School baseball team, Staples High School girls tennis team, Tom Kretsch, Westport Rotary Club

Roundup: Cops & Firefighters, Lacrosse, Dogs …

Posted on June 10, 2023 | 1 comment

It was a tense game, with plenty of close calls.

But in the end last night, the Westport Police Department defeated the Westport Fire Department, 19-14, in a benefit softball game at Compo Beach.

All proceeds go to the Tommy Fund, supporting patients and their families undergoing pediatric cancer treatment.

The opposing teams smiled, and celebrated together.

The next game is Saturday, July 8, also at Compo.

Friendly foes, before the game. (Photo and hat tip/Andrew Colabella)

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And after another close game yesterday: Congratulations to the Staples High School boys lacrosse team!

They defeated archrival Darien — as they’ve made a habit of doing recently — yesterday 9-8, in the state “L” (large schools) tournament.

The victory by the #2 Wreckers over the #3 seed Blue Wave vaults Staples into the state championship game. It’s set for tomorrow, 3 p.m. at Sacred Heart University.

That’s a fitting spot for coach Will Koshansky’s team. They’re the defending state champs, after winning their first-ever title last spring.

Their foe on Sunday is Fairfield Prep. The Jesuits are the top seed.

Go Wreckers!

The 2023 Staples boys lacrosse team.

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Prospect Gardens – the magnificent Greens Farms property — is open to the public tomorrow (Sunday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; GPS either 13 or 25 Prospect Road).

It was first settled in 1813. Noted landscape designer Cindy Shumate first saw the property in 1997; at the time, an 1874 farmhouse sat on an acre of suburban yard.

It has been expanded over time by John and Melissa Ceriale to 9 magnificent acres. Prospect Gardens now includes a Mediterranean garden, 2 orchards, an amphitheater, terraced vegetable garden, woodland walk and wildflower meadow. Winding paths lead from one area to the next.

Mark Demmerle will play classical guitar in the newly finished stone/grass amphitheater. It’s the first performance by anyone in the venue. For more information, click here.

A small portion of 9-acre Prospect Gardens.

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June is dog license month. And all dogs over 6 months old must be licensed.

It’s $8 for neutered male or spayed females. $19 for male or female. There is a $1 penalty per month for renewal licenses issued after June 30. A $75 infraction will be issued for any non-licensed dog, and for any dog not wearing a tag.

Click here, then scroll down for online registration. To register by mail, click here. For all dog license information, click here.

Yeah, you’re cute. But you still need a license. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of Staples: The World Languages Department has awarded 215 “Seals of Biliteracy” to graduating seniors. The Seal “affirms the value of diversity and honors the cultures and languages in our community,” school officials say.

More than half of the seals — 126 — were for Spanish. Other languages represented were French (29), Italian (26), Mandarin (12), German (7), Latin (6), Hindi (2), and Czech, Haitian Creole, Hebrew, Japanese, Marathi, Polish and Thai (1 each).

¡Felicidades! Alles gute! 恭喜你！

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Blue skies are back. The orange haze and acrid smoke are gone.

But Charlie Scott is making sure we don’t forget.

The Staples High School junior — a talented photographer, videographer, runner and WWPT-FM sports announcer — has created a visual montage of the past few days.

And he’s picked an apt metaphor: “Blade Runner 2949.”

Click below for Charlie’s 53-second video. Let’s hope he does not have to make another.

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Kathie Motes Bennewitz and Robin Jaffee Frank are Westporters.

But the women — executive director of the Hopper House Museum & Study Center/Westport town arts curator and senior associate curator of American paintings and sculpture at the Yale University Art Gallery, respectively — cross the Hudson River next Thursday.

Frank will discuss “Social Distancing: Edward Hopper’s Paintings of Women Dining in Public” at the center in Nyack (June 15, 6 p.m.). She examines the artist’s “sexually and psychologically charged urban dining scenes, interpreted in the context of his life and art, and the larger history of women in American society.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

“Automat” (Edward Hopper, 1927)

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For the 4th year in a row, Church Lane is closed to vehicular traffic through the summer. It’s pedestrian-only, with outdoor dining and music.

Signs and barriers at Elm Street are pretty clear. But yesterday, one driver did not get the message:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Former Westporter Frances Hyman died Thursday in Lynchburg, Virginia. She was 90.

The Roosevelt High School (Bronx) graduate met her future husband Leon through a mutual family acquaintance. They both loved classical ballet, and married in 1956.

They lived in Greenwich Village, Stamford and Sacramento, where Frances was a devoted member of Hadassah.

They returned to the East Coast in 1974 and lived in Westport for 45 years, until Leon died in 2019.

Frances led an active life here, volunteering for many causes including Save The Children , Dress For Success and the Stamford Arboretum. She loved Longshore, was an avid bridge player and gardener, and with her husband was a lifelong supporter of the New York City Ballet.

One of her proudest moments was participating in the 1987 “Freedom Sunday for Soviet Jews” rally in Washington.

Frances was also predeceased by her sisters Eleanor Feffer and Barbara Skydel. She is survived by her sons William (Sarah) of Manhattan, and Scott (Phoebe) of Lynchburg, and grandchildren Alexandra and Chloe Hyman of Manhattan, Samuel Hyman of Athens, Ohio, and Jonathan Hyman of Denver.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday, June 11) at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Flushing, New York. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To send online condolences, click here.

Frances Hyman

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features man’s best friend — with a new friend, in the Coleytown woods.

(Photo/Julie Blume)

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And finally … speaking of biliteracy (see story above):

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Police, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged Charlie Scott, Cindy Shumate, Dr. Robin Jaffee Frank, Frances Hyman, Kathie Motes Bennewitz, Melissa and John Ceriale, Prospect Gardens, Staples boys lacrosse, Staples High School world language department, Westport Fire Department

Roundup: Taber Onthank & Britt Baron, Prospect Gardens, Havdalah …

Posted on September 6, 2022 | Comments Off

In July 2021, Taber Onthank proposed to Brittany Uomoleale.

“06880” covered the story because:

They were well-known former Staples Players actors, and dated in high school.
The proposal was done on the Staples stage, with current students and even lighting designer Brandon Malin taking part.
Brittany — now known professionally as Britt Baron — was on several seasons of “Glow,” among many other roles.

Click here to read all about that great proposal.

Taber proposes to Brittany. (Photo/Kerry Long)

And if you read People magazine, you can read all about the marriage itself.

It happened Sunday, at the Ebell Club in Long Beach, California. The 130 guests included some of Britt’s co-stars from “Glow” and “The Thing About Harry.”

People noted their high school connection, and included exclusive photos.

Taber Onthank and Britt Baron (Photo courtesy of People Magazine by Albany Katz)

One detail that People missed: The wedding was officiated by Taber and Britt’s longtime friend — and former fellow Staples Player — Adam Kaplan. He was ordained for the ceremony by the Universal Life Church.

(Click here to read the entire People Magazine story. Hat tip: Liz Rueven)

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John and Melissa Ceriale have spent 20 years buying property, planning and planting an oasis between Greens Farms Road and Hillspoint Road.

Prospect Gardens — nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more — are a delight for anyone driving on Prospect Road, or walking past.

Usually, the beauty can only be enjoyed from the street. But on Saturday, September 17 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

The event is sponsored by the Garden Conservancy. Tickets are $10 each. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Looking northeast, on the Ceriales’ property.

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This photo is not as pretty:

(Photo/Bob Mitchell)

It’s a bunch of utility wires on Coleytown Road.

Though they are bunched nicely, that’s still a lot of them.

And they’re hanging awfully low.

Recent “06880” posts and comments have mentioned the preponderance of wires — telephone, cable, etc. — and the fact that inoperative or outdated wires are seldom removed, just abandoned.

Every company that owns wires points fingers at everyone else. Meanwhile, this is what we’ve got.

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On the eve of the opening match of Staples High School boys soccer’s 64th season, here’s news about the 63rd:

For the 20th time in 22 years — and the 17th season in a row — the Wreckers were honored with a national award for academic excellence.

United Soccer Coaches presents the Team Academic Award. A squad must have a 3.25 grade point average for all varsity players. The award is given for the previous academic year. In 2020, Staples’ varsity players had an average GPA of 3.67 — the highest on record for the Wreckers.

Indications are good that the 2022 squad — whose first home match is Saturday (10 a.m.) — will continue the impressive streak.

The 2021 Staples High School boys soccer team. (Photo/Barry Guiduli)

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Speaking of sports:

For 8 years, Westport has supported Catch-a-Lift Fund. The national organization serving post-9/11 combat-wounded veterans through fitness programs and gym memberships has run fundraisers, workout sessions and more here.

The Police and Fire Departments, town officials, the VFW, and local gyms, restaurants, business owners and residents have rallied behind the cause.

Now our town’s support will be visible at every youth and high school football game. Every player, from PAL 4th graders through Staples seniors, will wear the CAL logo on their helmets.

This Friday, when the Staples Wreckers open their season at home (7 p.m.) against Conard-West Hartford, will be special: Catch-a-Lift veterans will be at Paul Lane Field, to cheer them on.

The Catch a Lift decal, on a football helmet.

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The final Havdalah celebration of summer is set for this Saturday (September 10, 6 p.m.) at Compo Beach.

Hosted by the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism, it’s open to all. People curious about CHJ’s philosophy and practice are welcome.

Klezmer and traditional music will be led by Adam Feder, founder of New York’s Shul Band.

Beach stickers are not needed; tell the gate attendant you are with CHJ. Attendees should bring dinner, beverages and chairs. Dessert and soft drinks will be provided.

Havdalah at the Beach. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

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Jason Pike moved to Westport only in January. But he’s quickly developed an eye for special scenes — like today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, in the middle of downtown.

(Photo/Jason Pike)

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And finally … 25 years ago today, over a million people lined the streets of London for Princess Diana’s funeral. Another 2.5 billion watched around the world, on television.

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Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Moving Up, Pollinator Pathway …

Posted on June 21, 2022 | 5 comments

Shonda Rhimes — the producer/screenwriter/author/global media company CEO/Television Academy Hall of Fame inductee — entertained, inspired and wowed a sold-out crowd at last night’s Westport Library “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser. Actors Tony Goldwyn and Scott Foley were there too.

The leader in both her industry and for women of color, Rhimes is known for telling great stories (check out Netflix!). On stage before an appreciative audience, in a conversation with Vanity Fair editor Rhadika Jones, she spent her evening in Westport doing exactly that.

Shonda Rhimes, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

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This is “Moving Up” week.

Ceremonies are held at Westport’s 2 middle and 5 elementary schools.

Dylan Chatterjee captured this scene yesterday, outside Bedford, where his sister Mia was celebrated. It seems symbolic: 8th graders moving toward the light of Staples High School, both literally and figuratively.

(Photo/Dylan Chatterjee)

Congratulations to all 5th and 8th graders — I mean, rising 6th graders and freshman — all over town!

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Happy Pollinator Week!

To celebrate, Pollinator Pathways organizers in Westport and surrounding towns are showcasing properties — both public and private — where habitat-friendly landscaping is done. They’ll also provide information on how homeowners can create Pollinator Pathway yards of their own.

It’s this Saturday (June 25) at 4 separate Westport sites, all 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Earthplace (3 gardens), Prospect Road (privately owned), Smith-Richardson Wildlife Preserve (2 meadows) and Wakeman Town Farm (a 100-foot pollinator border).

Weston’s Onion Farm tour is also Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guides and gardeners will be on hand, to answer questions.

Click here, then scroll down to plan your tour. You’ll also see Pollinator Pathway tours throughout Fairfield, New Haven and Westchester Counties.

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The Westport Public Schools and Westport Weston Family YMCA have teamed up to coordinate child care — before and after school – for youngsters in grades K-5, during the coming school year.

The program includes arts and crafts, STEM activities, themed projects, outdoor and physical activities, homework help and snacks.

Transportation will be provided to and from the elementary schools, and YMCA.

The before-school program runs from 7 to 9 a.m. for Coleytown, Greens Farms, Kings Highway and Long Lots Schools, 7 to 8:30 a.m. for Saugatuck.

The after-school program runs from dismissal until 6 p.m. Students who sign up for any youth programs taking place during after-school care hours — karate, swim lessons, soccer shots, basketball, gymnastics, fencing or dance — will be accompanied to their program by a staff member. There is a separate fee for those programs.

3-, 4 and 5-day signups are available. Click here for more information, and to register.

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Sure, it was 2 days ago. But we can’t resist a good photo. Here’s a bird’s-eye view of the Levitt Pavilion during Sunday’s Michael Franti & Spearhead show:

(Photo/JC Martin)

Encore: Here’s a video of Michael, complete with a shout-out to Westport:

Looking ahead, the Levitt celebrates the final days of Pride Months with 2 performances.

Isle of Klezbos is this Thursday (June 23, 7:30 p.m.). New York magazine says their repertoire ranges from “rambunctious to entrancing: Neo-traditional folk dance, mystical melodies, Yiddish swing & retro tango, late Soviet-era Jewish drinking song, re-grooved standards, and genre-defying originals.”

It’s about time Levitt had some Yiddish swing and late Soviet-era Jewish drinking songs! Click here for (free!) ticket information.

Next week, it’s “Queer + Quiet”: an evening with Treya Lam (Tuesday, June 28, 7 p.m.). They’ll “lift up the underrepresented, quiet, marginalized voices in the BIPOC trans, non-binary, queer community.” Click here for (also free!) ticket information.

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Speaking of Pride: Fairfield County Story Lab opens this Sunday’s Write-In to all LGBTQ and LGBTQ-friendly writers and creatives — for free.

At 2 p.m. June 26, there’s an hour of socializing. Work on projects follows from 3 to 4:30; then there’s a wrap-up chat.

The Story Lab is a shared workspace, on the 4th floor of Saugatuck’s 21 Charles Street office building. Click here to reserve a spot.

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The June 27 (7 p.m.) Westport Library showing of the award-winning documentary “Four Winters” is noteworthy.

The film tells the story of the 25,000 Jewish partisans who battled the Nazis and their collaborators from the forests of Eastern Europe. The men and women — many in their teens — blew up trains, burned electric stations and attacked enemy headquarters.

But there’s also an important local connection: “Four Winters”‘ writer/producer/director Julia Mintz is a Weston High School graduate.

For more information, click here.

NOTE: “Four Winters” supporters have designed a program for screenings and talkbacks at colleges that don’t have Jewish Studies departments, or funding for Holocaust programming. Click here to donate.

Weston native Julia Mintz, with an interviewee for “Four Winters.”

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Lou Weinberg is the passionate, creative and very hands-on director of the Westport Community Gardens. He knows flowers, trees, grasses and bushes — and birds, bees, rabbits and all other wildlife there.

He’s also a gifted photographer.

Here’s his description of today’s stunning “Westport … Naturally” photo: “This gray catbird is eating a berry from a serviceberry tree. This native tree produces flowers and an abundance of fruit for a multitude of birds this time of year. If you like birds, plant serviceberry trees!”