Tag Archives: Sam Clachko

Roundup: Outage Update; Sunset Yoga; Theater, Art, Music, Sports …

Eversource is slowly returning power to our towns.

As of 7:30 a.m. today — 58 hours after storms ripped through the area — 110 Westport customers remain without electricity. That’s 0.9% of all customers here.

In Weston, 79 customers (2%) lack power.

Statewide, the figure is 10,193 (0.9%).

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There are many ways for Westporters to enjoy Sunday evenings at Compo Beach.

Some people wind down from the weekend, and pause before work begins again, with cookouts. Others walk, fish, or watch the sunset.

Now there’s another choice: yoga.

Alexa Moro — a 2018 Staples graduate, who captained both her high school and Villanova lacrosse teams — was introduced to the practice for physical recovery, as  teenager. In college, she realized it changed her mental outlook too.

After working as an accountant and financial analyst, she pivoted to teaching full-time. Saltwater Yoga was born.

Her Compo “Sunday Sunset Sessions” begin at 6 p.m. near the cannons, and run through August 16. They’re beginner-friendly, and include open-level yoga, sound, and an optional saltwater plunge.

They begin as the sun starts to set. “We build some heat, then cool down,” Alexa says.

“What started as my personal search for a little bit of space in my fast-paced life and mind slowly became something I realized is worth sharing.”

To sign up, click here.

Sunset yoga.

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A new partnership between the Westport Country Playhouse and The Clubhouse promises an evening of mystery, interactive fun and theatrical intrigue.

The “Pick Your Poison” collaboration is set for tomorrow (Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m.) at The Clubhouse (1620 Post Road East).

Inspired by the Playhouse’s upcoming production of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,” the event immerses guests in the world of the Queen of Crime.

Local student actors will perform scenes from the stage adaptation of the classic whodunit. Attendees can test their detective skills by solving a series of fast-paced, 30-second mysteries.

Guests will also receive discounted tickets and concession vouchers for the “Ackroyd,” show (running July 14 through August 1 at the Playhouse).

Keeping with the theme, guests can “Pick Your Poison” from a selection of beverages and food, available for purchase at The Clubhouse.

Admission is free, but space is limited. Advance reservations are required;  click here.

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Rick Shaefer’s exhibit “Colossi” — part of MoCA\CT’s new show “Looking for History” — is earning raves.

On Thursday (July 9, 6 p.m.), the artist offers personal insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

He’ll guide visitors through the works on view, sharing the inspirations, historical references and creative processes that shape his practice.

It’s $25 general admission, $15 for seniors and students, free for MoCA members. Click here to register.

Rick Shaefer, with his work. 

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Another artist here this Thursday: Joel Mesler (July 9, 7:30 p.m., Chabad of Westport).

Known for colorful, expressive paintings and playful use of language, he’ll share stories about works that blend humor, memory, hope and Jewish identity.

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Can’t get no satisfaction?

Try the VFW. Crossfire Hurricane — the Rolling Stones tribute band named for the “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” lyrics — bring their energy and electricity to Post 399 this Friday (July 10).

Doors open at 6 p.m.; the show kicks off at 7. A light bar food menu is available, with drink specials.

Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here to purchase.

I know. It’s only rock ‘n’ roll. But you’ll like it.

Crossfire Hurricane

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Speaking of the VFW: Vocalist Abena Koomson-Davis — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday, for an encore performance (July 9, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).

She’s joined by her husband, trombonist Steve Davis, and pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Jason Tiemann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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This summer, young basketball players looking to reach the top level can learn from 2 slightly older athletes who are already there.

Sam Clachko and Mason Tobias — recently Staples High graduates, who led the Wreckers to the FCIAC championship, and a legendary state tournament final that went to 3 overtimes — are running a week-long camp next month.

From August 3 to 7 (9 a.m. to noon, Staples High School fieldhouse), they’ll work with rising 2nd through 8th graders. Groups will be split by age.

They’ll teach “what it takes to become Staples varsity captains” — while providing an enjoyable, memorable experience.

The cost is $350. Click here to register. Questions? Email samclachko@gmail.com.

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Jan Winston of Westport died Sunday at home, after a long battle with multiple myeloma. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday and 64th wedding anniversary.

Born to Russian and Romanian immigrants, he grew up in South Orange, New Jersey and made life-long friends.

He graduated from Princeton University, where he worked at the campus radio station and earned a political science degree.

Jan had a 35-year career at IBM, in Boca Raton, Florida, Atlanta and Somers, New York. In the early 1980s he helped lead the planning and development of the first personal computer, the IBM PC. His last role at IBM, in the mid-1990s, was leading the speech and pen technology business.

In retirement Jan embraced exercise. He worked out with a trainer for over 30 years. He returned to an executive role, serving as board chair for Inrad, an optics technology company, and for more than two decades as president of the board at Lansdowne condominiums, where he lived for more than 40 years.

Jan is survived by his wife Gail; 3 children Karen Winston (Bruce Nohe), Lauren MacNeill (Neil), and Andrew Winston (Christine); grandchildren Daniel Norman (Maddie Anthony), Julia Norman (Kyle Solomon), Joshua Winston, Jacob Winston and Benjamin MacNeill; nieces Robin and Alyse Winston, and childhood friends Walter, Lenny, Howard and Marty. He was pre-deceased by his brother Donald and niece Mona Winston.

A funeral is set for today (Tuesday, July 7,  11 a.m., Abraham L. Green & Son Funeral Home, 88 Beach Road, Fairfield. Interment follows at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

Jan Winston

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Our “Westport … Naturally” series often includes interesting — but familiar — scenes of local creatures.

Today’s image, from Old Mill Beach, is something we don’t see every day:

(Photo/Marina Drasnin)

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And finally … in honor of the Rolling Stones tribute band this Friday (item above):

(Please click here to support “06880.” Your hyper-local blog is a gas gas gas!)

Roundup: Election, Trash, Hoops …

A small crowd gathered at Toquet Hall last night, for the League of Women Voters’ “Meet the Board of Education Candidates” night.

The 8 BOE hopefuls answered questions ranging from the life experiences that define them, and their motivation to run, to how the Westport school would be different 4 years from now, if they’re elected.

The event was co-sponsored by “06880.”

From left: Jodi Harris, Stephen Shackelford, Robert Harrington, Michelle Hopson, moderator Dan Woog, Kaitlin Zucaro, Dorie Hordon, Andy Frankel, Abby Tolan. (Photo/Joan Gillman)

A similar “Meet the Candidates” conversation is set for tonight (Thursday, 7 p.m., Senior Center), with the Planning & Zoning Commission candidates.

There are 2 debates next week:

  • Candidates Debates: Board of Education (with statements by Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals and Board of Finance candidates)October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
  • Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport. 

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Speaking of the election: If you missed Tuesday’s “Seat at the Selectman’s Table” — the one-of-its-kind event at which the 3 1st selectman candidates shared both a meal, and honest, heartfelt insights about their lives, passions, dreams and vulnerabilities — you’re in luck.

The event — sponsored by the Library’s Common Ground Initiative, in conjunction with “06880” — has been posted on the Library’s website.

Click here or below, for a fascinating look beyond policies, into the personalities of the trio who hope to lead Westport for the next 4 years.

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Speaking still of the election: Here is an update on the Voter CheckList website, which allows users to access early voting records in real time.

Residents who wish to use it must contact the Registrar of Voters’ office, to get a login and password. Email dgreenberg@westportct.gov or msignore@westportct.gov.

The site shows that through yesterday — the first 3 days of early voting — 2.86% of eligible Westport voters have cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 322 of 7,954 eligible voters (4.05%)
  • Republicans: 76 of 3,338 eligible voters (2.28%)
  • Unaffiliated: 144 of 7,582 eligible voters (1.90%)

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Last Sunday’s season-opening group-focused town cleanup was a resounding success.

Assumption Youth Group and St. Francis Youth Group, in collaboration with SCA-Crowley, spearheaded the effort.

The teenagers and parents focused on the Greens Farms corridor along I-95, from Hillspoint Road to Compo Road South.

They measured the amount of waste collected with a digital scale. The result: 135 pounds.

Organizers Andrew Colabella and Michele Harding will announce the next trash pick-up soon.

Trash pick-up, near Greens Farms Road.

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The 3rd annual “Hoops for Heart” event — held last weekend at the Westport Weston Family YMCA — was special.

It raised nearly $79,000 for research into single ventricle (half a heart) syndrome.

Community support was outstanding. There were 12 teams, with nearly all the players from Westport. Over 150 people attended.

Extra special: Staples High School captains Sam Clachko and Dhilan Lowman played.

Sure, their team won.

But their presence there — as role models for young boys and girls — and their “big hearts” (for those born with half a heart) made a great day even better. (Hat tip: Britt Melsheimer)

Sam Clachko (third from left), Dhilan Lowman and friends.

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Want to start a native meadow at home?

Next Tuesday (October 28, noon to 1 p.m.), Westport landscape designer Jay Petrow leads a free webinar, on that topic.

The event is sponsored by Sustainable Westport, which warns: “Planting native meadows can be addictive. Side effects may include unplanned trips to native plant sales, many hours wandering outside looking at bees and butterflies, and spending your winter months planning to buy more plants.”

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Speaking of the environment: Town officials joined the Sierra Club at Earthplace earlier this week.

They toured the facility, and spoke about environmental concerns.

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Wreathing for Community — the great volunteer group — is making, then donating, 50 wreaths for the apartments of Norwalk’s Open Doors Shelter.

All materials have been donated by Westporters.

1st and 2nd Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore, with their wreaths.

Interested in donating materials or getting involved? Email FaithASargent@gmail.com.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 15 and 21.

A 54-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with larceny, following a  shoplifting incident of goods valued at $510.56.

Two New Haven women, ages 45 and 29, were charged with larceny, following a shoplifting incident of goods valued at $607.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Driving while texting: 3 citations

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Speeding in a school zone: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to display lights: 1
  • Permit violation: 1

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Adam Bovilsky, executive director of the Norwalk Housing Authority, outlined the challenges his 110 staffers face, in Tuesday’s presentation to the Westport Rotary Club.

He noted the importance of annual Rotary grants, which come from events like the LobsterFest.

Adam Bovilsky (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Westport Library Verso advisory board member Sam Hendel spoke last week on “Capital, Creativity & the Future of Music Rights: at the Mondo Music Industry & Technology Conference in Brooklyn. He is the founder and managing partner of Chord Music, among other music ventures.

Other Mondo speakers included Henry Rollins and Nabil Ayers, a speaker at the Library’s VersoFest in April. Ayers also participated in the Library’s StoryFest last weekend.

Two other Verso advisory board members, Dick Wingate and Les Dinkin, also attended Mondo. Wingate spoke at the first conference, in 2015.

Sam Hendel with Paul Sipio, Apollo managing director.  

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Greens Farms Academy students did not have far to go to study the environment this week. They explored New Creek, just west of campus.

And Seth Schachter did not have far to go to photograph them, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

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And finally … in honor of all those who helped last weekend’s “Hoops for Heart” event (story above):

(Have a heart! Here at “06880,” we work our butts off for you. Show us some love! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

Whoop It Up For Staples Hoops

They’re very skillful, insanely quick, truly unselfish, and quite well coached.

The Staples High School boys basketball team is also one of the most fun groups I’ve ever watched.

In any sport. Anywhere.

Basketball might be the ultimate fan’s game. Inches from the floor — with no helmets, masks or pads — every athlete’s every emotion is on full display.

Spectators hear each command given. Swiveling their heads back and forth in a small, packed gym, following each pass, shot and rebound, they’re as much a part of the action as athletes.

Four quarters zip past. And — this season for sure, the Wreckers nearly always win.

“06880” photographer Ryan Allen captures all of that perfectly. (And note: He’s just a sophomore).

He was there last week, as Staples continued their surge with a 73-50 demolition of a solid Fairfield Warde team.

Scroll down to feel the electric atmosphere that (and every) night.

And make plans to be at Staples on Tuesday night (February 4). The Wreckers host Fairfield Ludlowe. Tipoff is 7 p.m.

Huddling up before the game.

Head coach Dave Goldshore gives final pre-game instructions.

Sam Clachko. Three games earlier, he scored his 1,000th point. And he’s still a junior. 

Austin Heyer gets set.

Charlie Bowman, surrounded by 3 Mustangs.

Staples graduate and longtime basketball supporter Dylan Curran joins a time-out huddle.

Wrecker fans give full-throated support …

… and high-five the middle school winner of the half-time shooting competition.

“Gimme an ‘S’!”

The bench is behind — literally and figuratively — Dhilan Lowman.

Adam Udell, with the layup. (All photos/Ryan Allen)

(“06880” proudly covers Staples sports — and everything else that goes on at our high school. Plus of course, everywhere else in town. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Roundup: State Of The Town, Board Of Ed Agenda, Wildfires Aid …

What’s the state of the town?

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein will offer their “State of the Town” thoughts on Sunday, February 2 (2 p.m., Westport Library).

The leaders will review town and school accomplishments during the past year, and preview some upcoming initiatives and challenges. A question-and-answer session will follow.

The annual event is sponsored by Westport Sunrise Rotary and the Westport Rotary Club.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein.

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The Board of Education agenda for its meeting this Thursday (January 23, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), includes

  • Staples auditorium sound system
  • Transportation efficiencies study
  • 2025-26 proposed budget
  • First reading of Board of Education policies: Creation of a policiy on civility; amendment of student discipline policy
  • Second reading of Board of Education polices: Amendment of admission to public schools at or before age 5; amendment of policy on attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism; proposed repeal of policy on attendance excuses and chronic absenteeism.

The Board of Education will also hold a Zoom meeting that morning (January 23, 9 a.m., Zoom; meeting ID 857 3959 1723; passcoade 405790) to discuss procedures for conducting non-renewal hearings of employees.

Among the agenda items for Thursday’s Board of Education meeting: transportation efficiencies. (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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On Friday, Sam Clachko scored his 1,000th point as a Staples High School basketball player.

And he’s only a junior! (Click here for the full story.)

Ryan Allen — Staples’ superb photographer/videographer — was there to record the milestone.

Sam has a great future ahead, on the court. Ryan’s future is equally bright — behind the lens.

(Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Jeff Matlow was one of many Los Angeles residents affected by the recent fires.

The 1985 Staples High School graduate reports: “The Palisades fire started on the hill behind the school where my wife works, and our daughter is in 6th grade.

“They were the first people to evacuate, even before there was an official evacuation notice.

“At least half of the school is in ruins, if not more. The library is gone (along with all the books). All of the admin buildings, the preschool, kindergarten and elementary school are all gone.

“We are still not allowed in Pacific Palisades to see everything. But we know it will be a long rebuilding process.

The school just launched a fundraising campaign. “06880” readers can click here to read more, and contribute to help a fellow Westporter reconstruct his daughter and wife’s school community.

 

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Westport’s representatives in Hartford — State Senator Ceci Maher, and Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — invites residents to Mrs. London’s Bakery on January 30 (5:30 p.m.).

They’ll discuss issues impacting Connecticut residents, review goals and priorities for the legislative session, and answer questions.

From left: State Senator Ceci Mahr; Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

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Speaking of politics: Tomorrow is Inauguration Day.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is ready.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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The next full production at the Westport Country Playhouse is less than a month away.

The curtain rises for “Season of Laughter” on February 18.

The Playhouse says: “When expecting parents move next door to longtime suburbanites, a dispute over their yard’s property line spirals into an epic, flower-flinging war over taste, class, personal identity — and gardening. Can these couples ever learn to love their neighbor and mend the fences that separate them?!

The show runs through March 8. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The Brian Torff Group headline the next Voices Café show at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, on February 1 (8 p.m).

They’re “a band driven by a desire to capture the complexity of the American story ‘through American roots music with an updated twist.’”

The concert will blend Torff’s Southern music and race research with original songs, and new interpretations of artists like Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Mose Allison and Elvis Presley.

Torff — a professor of music at Fairfield University since 1993 — says, “we’ll honor Black History Month by taking a close look at the profound contributions of African Americans to our nation’s music culture.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Brian Torff

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Suznne (Suzy) Fiore — a Westport residence since 1951 — died peacefully at home on January 13. She was 86.

In 1972 Suzy began teaching at the Green’s Farms Preschool, became the director in 2001 and retired in 2009. She cared deeply for the children, their families, and teachers she taught and worked with over the years.

Suzy was a long-time member of Green’s Farms Congregational Church and the Westport Women’s Club. Since 1978 she was very active member in the PEO, Chapter B in Westport, serving as chapter president and holding several other officer positions.

She enjoyed traveling, caring for plants, being the family historian, and watching birds.

Suzy was predeceased by her husband Anthony Fiore Jr, daughter Cynthia Ann Watson, step-son Michael Fiore, and brother Charles Kline, Jr.

She is survived by her sons John Watson III (Deborah) of Summerville, South Carolina, Charles Watson of Westport, and William Craig Watson (Shery) of Redding; step-son Paul Fiore of Fruita, Colorado; nephew Charles Kline III (Christy); grandchildren Lynsay D’Aiuto, Jennie Moon (Josh), Rebecca Watson, John Watson IV (Molly), Charles Watson, Sadie Watson and Chase Alexander Watson, and 5 great-grandchildren

A memorial service will be held February 10 (1 p.m., Green’s Farms Church).

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows Grace Salmon Park.

A few hours from now, it may look quite a bit whiter.

(Photo/Alison Lee)

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And finally … on this date in 1901,  Queen Victoria was stricken with paralysis. She died 3 days later, at 81.

(Jen Tooker discusses the state of the town next month. But here at “06880,” we do that every day. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

Clachko Joins Staples Hoops’ 1,000-Point Club

Congratulations to Sam Clachko!

The Staples High School gym rocked last night, as the basketball quad-captain scored the 1,000th point of his career.

And he’s only a junior.

Clachko’s milestone came on a twisting layup, early in the 4th quarter of the Wreckers’ 85-53 demolition of Darien.

Sam Clachko scores hsi 1,000th point.

After a slow first quarter start — which began with him 31 points away from 1,000 — Clachko caught fire. Teammates set him up, knowing the next 2 games will be away. A raucous student section — letting loose after the last day of final exams — urged him on.

But Clachko was unselfish. Several times he fed teammates, rather than taking a shot.

The last previous boys basketball player to reach 1,000 points was John Baumann, in 2004. Arianna Gerig is the most recent Wrecker, on the girls’ side.

When Clachko scored his 1,000th (and 1,001st) points, his teammates mobbed him. He received the game ball, as a momento. Coach Dave Goldshore gave him the rest of the night off.

Staples is now 9-0. Another goal lies ahead: the FCIAC and state tournaments.

Sam Clachko, with coach Dave Goldshore after the game. (Photos courtesy of StaplesBasketball.com)