Tag Archives: Staples High School dance team

Roundup: Indoor Farmers’ Market, Tots’ Tantrums, Bairaktaris’ New Gig …

Posted on October 28, 2026 | 12 comments

INDOOR FARMERS’ MARKET STARTS NOVEMBER 5

Fall is settling in (Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday!).

So on November 5, the Westport Farmers’ Market heads indoors. They’ll settle into their wonderful winter home: the 3 warm greenhouses at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center.

Running every Thursday, and the first Saturday of every month through March 11 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), the winter market is not a scaled-back version of the summer season. It’s a full experience, with great vendors.

“Fresh, local food doesn’t take a winter break — and neither do we,” says WFM executive director Lori Cochran-Dougall.

“The winter market is one of my favorite things. There is something special about walking into those warm greenhouses on a cold morning, and watching the community gather around good food when the rest of the world has gone quiet.”

tantrums! limits! Tough moments at Home!

Sure, it’s tough to leave your 18-month-old to 5-year-old child.

But tomorrow (Thursday, October 29, 7:30 p.m.), find a sitter (or spouse or sibling).

Child development specialist (and mom of 3 boys) Dr. Chloe Massey offers a workshop called “A Compassionate Approach to Tantrums, Limits, and the Toughest Moments at Home.”

The event is at Temple Israel, but all community members are invited. Click here to register, and for more information. 

BAIRAKTARIS NAMED REDDING PARK & REC HEAD

The new head of Redding’s Park & Recreation Department has roots in that town.

And Westport.

Jaime Bairaktaris — president of Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services, former Representative Town Meeting member, longtime Earthplace educator and publisher of The Westport Local Press — takes over November 3.

The 2016 Staples High School graduate attended Redding Elementary School (and played youth sports there). He began volunteering with WVEMS as a Staples freshman. (Hat tip: John Karrel)

Jaime Bairaktaris

HOLIDAY DECOR sALE HELPS STAPLES MUSICIANS

It’s not too early to start thinking about holiday wreaths, garlands, planters and more.

And it’s never too early to help the Staples Music Department.

With plenty of projects and trips ahead, the Staples Music Parents Association has launched a fundraiser to help the choral, orchestra and band programs.

Click here for all offerings. Order by this coming Monday (November 2, 10 a.m.). Pick-up is December 2 at Staples.

STAPLES DANCE ELECTION DAY CLINIC SET

You may or may not want to dance on Tuesday, when the election returns come in.

But earlier that day, your K through 5th grade student(s) can learn some jazz and hip hop moves.

The first-ever Staples dance team’s Election Day clinic takes place at the Westport Academy of Dance.

The first session is already filled. The second session (1 to 3 p.m.) has a few opening.

Click here — but hurry. Registration closes Friday.

Staples High School dance team. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

DOG PADDLE

The water is still (relatively) warm. So why not head out, with your best friend?

I’m sure she was glad to join you!

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

TODAY’S HALLOWEEN HOMES

If you’re thinking of trick or treating in the Compo Beach neighborhood — and who isn’t? — here are a couple of extra-spooky decorations nearby:

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

hey, gym rats: put your phones down!

An “06880” reader asks for anonymity for this piece. But — as an avid Westport Weston Family YMCA Fitness (aka “Wellness”) Center user — I totally agree. He writes:

“After 8 months on the waiting list, I was finally admitted to the Westport Y. After nearly a decade of fitness classes at boutique studios, I looked forward to having access to a full gym.

“What surprised me was how much time people spend on their phones while they’re there.

“I know this isn’t unique to the Y. Walk into almost any large gym these days and you’ll see the same thing. I get it — phones are part of our lives. People use them for music, workout apps, timers and the occasional text.

“But there’s a difference between checking your phone and settling into a piece of equipment for 5 minutes of doom-scrolling while someone is waiting.

“I’m not talking about a reasonable rest between sets. Take your time. Catch your breath. Recover. That’s part of working out.

“But when I’m standing there waiting for a machine and someone is completely absorbed in their phone, I have to ask ‘Are you done?’ more often than I’d like.

“My workout time is limited. After a long, stressful day at the office, getting to the gym is one of the ways I blow off steam. I’d rather spend that time exercising than waiting for someone’s TikTok session to end.

“The Y has signs asking members to be mindful of cellphone use around the equipment. I don’t expect staff to become the phone police, but some gentle enforcement — or simply reminding people that the equipment is shared — would help.

“I’m not asking anyone to surrender their phone at the door. Just remember that you share the gym with other people who are trying to get their workout in, too.

“Rest between sets. Check your phone if you need to. Just don’t let 5 minutes of scrolling become another set.”

Not the Y. But it could be.

VFW BENEFITS LUNCHEON TOMORROW

The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is tomorrow (Thursday, October 29, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

“westport … naturally” & song of the day

We’ve had so many great hunter moon-rise photos, we’ll run one more.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes courtesy of Cindy Zuckerbrod.

(Photo/Cindy Zuckerbrod)

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And finally … following up on the workshop about the “Compassionate Approach to Tantrums” workshop (item above):

(We won’t cry if you don’t click here to support your hyper-local blog. But we won’t join the Staples dance team and leap around with joy, either. We’re just sayin’ …)

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Environment, Local business, Staples HS, YMCA

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Roundup: Driving Edition: Speed Cameras, Snow Piles, Left-Turn Arrows …

Posted on January 28, 2026 | 9 comments

In 2023, the Connecticut legislature passed a law allowing municipalities to install red light and speed cameras and collect fines from drivers going more than 10 miles over the speed limit, or who run a red light.

So far, the state Department of Transportation has approved plans from 11 towns and cities. Three more are under consideration.

Where does Westport stand?

“06880” asked 1st Selectman Kevin Christie. He says: “Currently, traffic enforcement in Westport is handled through traditional methods by sworn police officers. The town does not operate any automated traffic enforcement cameras, including speed cameras, red light cameras, or school bus stop-arm cameras.

“The town is aware of evolving technology and ongoing state-level discussions regarding automated traffic enforcement systems. Westport has also established a Safety Action Plan, which is a prerequisite for any potential future consideration.

“At this time, Westport is not in the process of acquiring or installing automated traffic enforcement cameras. Any future consideration would require adoption of a local ordinance and a formal policy review.”

Traffic cameras

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The snowfall has stopped. The fallout continues.

On Kings Highway North, Marie Gross’ neighbors’ plow guy deposited a huge pile on the sidewalk next to the end of her driveway.

It’s so high, she can’t see oncoming cars.

She sent this photo …

(Photo/Marie Gross)

… and says, “you can barely see a panel van coming down the road.” She urges everyone — homeowners and plow companies alike — to be mindful when clearing snow.

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Speaking of driving, Arthur Hayes writes: “After a 3-year construction project, the left-turn arrows at 3 of the 4 approaches to the Post Road East/Roseville Road/Hillspoint Road intersection still are not functioning.

“We have the same left-turn disasters as before the project — just from newly constructed left-turn lanes. The only arrow that works is on the Post Road westbound approach.

“The project was presented by the state Department of Transporttation in July of 2019. After 6 1/2 years, my enthusiasm is waning.”

Left-turn arrows noted by Arthur Hayes still do not work.

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Budget season is beginning.

The Board of Finance meets Monday (February 2, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 307/309; livestreamed at www.westportct.gov).

They’ll discuss proposed budgets from the Departments of Human Services, Parks & Recreation (including Wakeman Town Farm), and Public Works (including the sewer fund).

Budget deliberations are set Monday for several departments.

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MoCA\CT welcomes a wide range of artists — all abilities, and all ages.

How do they do it? Here are 2 examples.

A new Advanced Art Studio for Adults with Disabilities (Saturdays, 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.; suggested donation $25) encourages attendees to explore painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media through guided projects and open-ended creativity.

With individualized instruction, the program celebrates self-expression, builds confidence, and fosters community. Click here for more information, and to register.

Meanwhile, the open call deadline for high school artists is February 13.

“The Sound of US: Youth Culture Now” show asks young people to choose 1 song from 2020 to today, and create an original artwork that explores its influence on youth culture. Fashion, language, activism, daily life — all are appropriate themes.

Selected works will be exhibited at MoCA\CT, in tandem with their new exhibition, “Art, Jazz + the Blues” on February 26. Click here for more information, and to submit portfolios.

Adults with disabilities enjoy new opportunities at MoCA\CT.

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Alisyn Camerota has a new gig.

The former CNN journalist has joined the Scripps News Network, as special events anchor.

The Westport resident calls it “a dream gig for me at this moment in my life. I get to work with a team of talented, wonderful journalists, and interview super compelling people, and stay out of the daily stomach-churning stress of this never-ceasing news cycle.”

Her first interview, last Friday, was with former CNN colleague and longtime friend Don Lemon.

“You might have heard a thing or two about Don last week, when Trump and the Department of Justice were desperately, and futilely, trying to charge him with a crime for covering an ICE protest inside a St. Paul church,” Alisyn says.

“They failed.  But Don doesn’t believe their attempts are over.”

She’s got a Substack, too. Yesterday, she wrote about what went on — behind the scenes — as she and Lemon grappled with “the duality of grief.” Click here to read more, and subscribe.

Alisyn Camerota and Don Lemon in light — and serious — moments together.

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In the 4 months since “06880” wrote about the Staples Dance team, they’ve grown to over 25 students, in all 4 grades . This winter, Wrecker basketball fans are enjoying their creative, high-energy halftime shows.

This Sunday (February 1, Saugatuck Elementary School, 10:45 a.m.) they host their first-ever showcase fundraiser, featuring great performances by members. Proceeds support the team as they begin competitions, include the state championship.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Staples dance team rehearsal.

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Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to Rohan Sareen.

Last week, the 11th grader headed to New York, to work with the Children’s Rescue Fund at the Lighthouse Shelter in Long Island City.

Using a pair of 3D printers, he taught 30 children how to prepare files, and safely run prints on their own. For most, it was their first exposure to 3D printing and hands-on engineering.

But this is just the beginning. The printers will be used in a new after-school program, giving many more children the chance to learn design, problem-solving, and real-world tech skills.

Rohan says, “the goal of the program is to spark curiosity and show how technology can turn ideas into something tangible. Seeing the children get excited about creating their own projects was incredibly rewarding.”

Rohan Sareen, with 3D printer and Lighthouse Shelter youngsters.

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With last year’s denial by the Planning & Zoning Commission of the controversial Hamlet project, plans for Saugatuck redevelopment have been shelved.

But what about the Norwalk Islands?

There had been vague mentions of excursions from a Hamlet marina, to a couple of nearby properties.

According to “Nancy on Norwalk,” 2 are now back on the market, just a few years after selling. The “rare move (is) tied to stalled development plans and renewed interest in the limited number of islands that remain in private hands along the city’s coastline.”

Calf Pasture Island — close to the Saugatuck River and Norwalk Harbor — has an A-frame structure. Betts Island includes a 1925 single-family home. The asking price is $3.5 million for each.

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

Betts Island

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Should we go in, or stay onshore?

That’s the question, at Sherwood Mill Pond — and for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo feature.

(Photo/Nikki Gorman)

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And finally … thinking about the first 3 items above:

(Baby, you can drive my car. You can also click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to support “06880.” Your choice, but I’d sure prefer the second option. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local politics, Police, Real estate, Staples HS, Transportation, Weather

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Staples Dance Team: All That Jazz (And More)

Posted on September 13, 2025 | Comments Off on Staples Dance Team: All That Jazz (And More)

Staples High School has something for everyone.

Forty varsity sports. A professional-caliber drama program, and music and art departments to match. Journalism, broadcast media, environment, the “We the People” Constitution competition — if you’ve got a passion, it’s been pursued by like-minded students, with avid mentors, on the North Avenue campus.

Unless you’re a dancer.

For years, teenagers who dance have found their community elsewhere — in private academies outside of school.

Now, that niche has been filled.

The Staples dance team launched last spring. Next week they’ll have a spot at the annual Involvement Fair, reaching out to students eager to make dance a part of their school lives.

The mission: to bring Staples dancers together, and provide the same sense of connection and recognition that so many other teams, clubs and organizations enjoy.

The Staples dance team is for serious dancers, who often spend so much time in the studio that they miss out on school spirit.

It’s also for those who used to dance, but stepped away.

And for anyone else who loves dance, and wants to learn new styles.

The vision took shape last school year, when Alina Knapp — then a Bedford Middle School 8th grader — talked with interested classmates, in a variety of forms: tap, ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical and hip hop. Staples, she learned, had 3 dance clubs.

But no dance team.

She teamed up with fellow Bedford dancer Mirabelle Choe.

Soon, then-freshmen Katie Brill, Sutton Bulkeley and Caitlin Hand led an effort to become an official Staples club.

Staples dance team coach Mikela Pirri

Mikela Pirri — a Sacred Heart University alumnus with competitive dance experience — joined as coach.

The Staples dance team will blend performance (at games and pep rallies) and competition, with both jazz and hip hop squads. The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) — which governs all public school sports in the state — also sanctions competitive dance.

Staples was one of the few schools in the area without a dance team. Fairfield Ludlowe and Warde, Norwalk and Stamford Highs all have teams. Ridgefield is the reigning state hip hop champion.

Like Staples sports, Players, Orphenians, Inklings, WWPT and so much more, the dance team emphasizes camaraderie, school spirit and inclusiveness.

“Dance is about working together, supporting each other, and connecting through movement,” says junior co-captain Nina Ghahremani. “Now we get to do that through Staples.”

Staples dance team. Back row (from left): Caitlin Hand, Sutton Bulkeley, Katie Brill, Mirabelle Choe, Alina Knapp. Front: Chloe Jordan, Nina Ghahremani. Boys are welcome too!

“Senior co-captain Chloe Jordan adds, “We look forward not only to dancing together as a team, but also setting a standard of passion and kindness within our community.”

And they’ll do it — finally — on their own high school campus.

(For more information, follow the team on Instagram: @StaplesDance.)

(“06880” covers all areas of Staples High School life. If you enjoy discovering all that our town’s teens are up to, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Sports, Staples HS, Teenagers

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