Tag Archives: Staples High School music department

Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Registration, CMS At The Playhouse …

Online registration begins at 9 a.m. March 11 for 2 of the most popular Parks & Recreation Department summer programs: Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

Registration opens the next day (March 12, 9 a.m.) for all other spring and summer offerings.

Parks & Rec officials urge residents to log in now to their online accounts, to verify family information.

  1. Log in and select “Manage Family Member” (bottom right).
  2. Click the first name in the column under “My Family Members” to check key details.
  3. Verify date of birth and ensure your child’s grade (as of September 2025) is correct.
  4. Click “Save” at the bottom.
  5. Go to the “Contact Information” tab and review/update your contact details. Click “Save” again.
  6. Repeat for each family member in your profile.

Address Change? Email us at recreation@westportct.gov with updated information.

Login issue? Don’t create a new profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.

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Coleytown Middle School theater students got a special treat Wednesday.

Westport Country Playhouse technical director Jason Thompson led a tour of the theater, for Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

It was not a random invitation. Thompson is working with the students to build the set for “Matilda,” the CMS show that runs April 4-6.

The visit was coordinated by Ben Frimmer. He wears 3 hats: theater arts educator for Westport Public Schools, director of Coleytown Company, and Playhouse trustee.

“I want to make Westport students more aware of the only professional theatre in Westport,” he says.

“Coleytown has one of the strongest middle school tech programs in the country. But I think it’s critical we expand students’ knowledge past what we do at school. This trip allowed them to experience the world of professional technical theatre.”

Coleytown Company’s tech crew toured the historic Playhouse, visited the scene shop, and watched set building underway on stage for the opening next week of “Native Gardens.”

Jason Thompson, Playhouse technical director (right) and Matthew Melchiorre, Playhouse director of production (left), explain set construction of “Native Gardens” to  Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

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Speaking of the Playhouse: They’ve added 2 new events to their April calendar.

“Me, Myself, and Barbra” is a tribute to Ms. Streisand, by Jenna Pastuszek. She was inspired by a meeting with the singing star, who inspired her to embrace her inner Barbra.

The show is April 24 — Streisand’s birthday. Tickets are $45 and $40; pre-show party and show tickets are $55 and $50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

“2 Motherpluckers” is a musical, featuring a pair of guitar-playing, songwriting local moms — Julie Foldesi and Stacie Morgain Lewis — on a hilarious journey through the bumps of motherhood.

Broadway star/Westport resident compares it to “the Indigo Girls meet Kristen Wiig.”

The Lucille Lortel White Barn Center show is April 29 (7 p.m.). All tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Three new art exhibits are on display at The Westport Library. “Good Bones: 60 Years of Multi-Dimensional Commentary” by Nina Bentley, “City Sights” by Susan Fehlinger, and “Art and Jazz” by Jean Krasno run through March 25.

Bentley’s art is often conceptual in nature, offering poignant commentary on a wide array of social issues. “Good Bones” is a retrospective of decades of her work, composed of sculpture, prints, pen and ink, and multimedia assemblages.

Fehlinger worked for 35 years as a television producer in New York City. Yearning to paint, she left her job in 2003 and embarked on a career as an artist.

Her style emphasizes  texture, color, and light. Her compositions play with scale, placement, and negative and positive spaces.

Krasno is inspired by the magic of jazz music, conveyed through the rich voices, poetic lyrics and rhythmic performances of artists like Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington.

“Art and Jazz” creates a sensory experience that combines her art with the music that sparked its creation, incorporating a listening component with QR codes that link to jazz songs.

Art, by Nina Bentley

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The Westport Board of Education Policy Committee’s next meeting is February 27 (11 a.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Discussion items include:

  • Second reading of possible revisions to the suicide prevention and intervention policy.
  • First reading of possible revisions to existing policies involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination, and sex-based discrimination and harassment.
  • First reading of a possiible new policy on transportation.
  • Discussion of a policy on survey of students/student privacy.

Meanwhile, one of the agenda items for the Planning & Zoning Commission’s February 24 meeting (6 p.m., remote; click here for the link) is a special permit request by Fairfield County Hunt Club.

They’re applying to build an indoor racquet sport facility, for club members and guests.

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Congratulations to 14 Staples High School musicians. They auditioned successfully for the Connecticut Music Educators Associaton All-State Festival.

Their names and talents are below:

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A late model Audi was stolen around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, from the parking lot at Bridge Square.

The thief opened the door, and drove off. It appears the keys might have been left in the car.

The epidemic of car thefts continues in Westport. Once again, “06880” reminds residents to lock your cars — always. Never leave your keys in your cars. Always be aware of your surroundings. And if you have a garage: Use it!  (Hat tip: Ben Meyer)

Don’t be a victim!

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Many Westporters (judging by comments on, and to, “06880”) don’t like dogs on the Compo Beach boardwalk.

But many others (using the same unscientific method) don’t like signs warning them to keep away.

They’re too large and intrusive, readers say.

One resident has another point of view. “At least they’re the right height for dogs to read,” he says.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Eve Potts spotted this at the Regents Park condos, after our most recent storm. It’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. She calls it “Nature’s Sculpture.”

(Photo/Eve Potts)

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And finally … Happy Valentine’s Day, to all who celebrate it.

There are squintillions of songs to choose from. These 3 seem to cover it well:

(Sure, you can show your love for “06880” with flowers or chocolate. But we prefer that you click here, and make a tax-deductible contribution. Hey, we’re honest! Thank you all …)

Roundup: WASA Dog Video, Orphs Alumni Caroling, Night Side Drones …

Westport Animal Shelter Advocates is one of our town’s hardest working, most effective nonprofits.

Their primary focus is attending to the needs of impounded dogs at Westport Animal Control. WASA provides funds for vet care, exercise and training.

They perform home and reference checks, to ensure the canines are placed safely in loving homes.

WASA runs a small fostering network for homeless dogs from other Connecticut animal control facilities, or that come from Fairfield County residents and must be rehomed.

WASA also assists pet owners who struggle financially to provide vet care and adequate nutrition for their pets.

Whether you’re a dog owner, dog lover, or stay far from Winslow Park and off-season Compo Beach, WASA’s year-end video is well worth watching.

It was produced by Staples High School Class of 2021 graduate Brandon Malin. He began volunteering with WASA at age 7, and has been a great fantastic friend to them (and their dogs) ever since.

Brandon is also an exceptionally talented photographer and videographer.

WASA notes: “We ‘stay in business’ because of the support we receive from Westport residents, businesses, and town departments. We are not subsidized by the town of Westport.”

Click here to support WASA. Click below to see Brandon’s great WASA ’24 video.

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Attention, Staples Orphenians alumni — and everyone else who loves our high school’s elite a cappella group!

An “Orphs Alumni” Christmas caroling event is set for downtown Westport, this Friday (December 20, 3 to 4 p.m.).

Singers will meet at the Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church parking lot.

Orphs: Bring your voices. You’ll have a great time.

Downtown shoppers: Bring your ears. You’re in for a treat.

In 1980, George Weigle led these Orphenians on a downtown Christmastime caroling stroll. Will some alumni from this group — now 60 years old — be back on Main Street on Friday?

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Speaking of the Staples Music Department: With musicians and audience members still on a high after this weekend’s Candlelight Concert (and everyone else kicking themselves for not getting tickets), here’s one more look at the 84th annual gift to the town.

Kevin Mazzarella is in his first year as band director at the high school. But it’s clear from the photo below — as he leads the symphonic band, symphonic orchestra and choral ensembles (including dozens of alumni) in Saturday’s rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — that he’s as excited by Candlelight as everyone else from the past 8 decades.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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For a while, strange drones have been spotted over New Jersey.

Now there are reports that they’re hovering above other Northeast states.

Richard Fogel spotted this in the Westport sky, around 8:50 p.m. Saturday night.

Is it a drone? A plane? An Unidentified Anomolous Phenomenon (previously known as “UFO”)?

Click “Comments” below. But please: No tin hats!

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Speaking of strange sights: Our “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

But we never expected to see this sight, from deep in the heart of Texas (Plano):

Ellen Wentworth’s cousin spotted it, and sent it to her.

Yee haw!

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With its winter semester near, Westport Library’s Verso University has announced 8 new courses. They are:

Poet of Wonder: Robert Frost (January 8, 15, 22; 10:30 a.m. to noon). Explore Frost’s work with Westport poet laureate Donna Disch in a 3-part seminar. Delve into all that is “lovely, dark and deep.” Each session will focus on a different selection.

Suspicious Papers: A Vintage Ephemera Collage Workshop Series (January 8, 15, 22; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Artist and ephemera dealer Alesia DiFederico explores mixed media collage using authentic bits of history, inks, paints, and imagination. Creating art is for everyone; the joy is in the do

Exploring Wines of Italy (January: 9, 16, 23, 30; 3 to 4 p.m.). Sommelier Barbie Messa leads a wine tasting class that dives deeply into Italy’s rich traditions.

 Storytelling for TV and Film (January 9, 16, and 23; 6 to 7:30 p.m.). Scriptwriter Gigi Rios New helps explore the fundamentals of storytelling for the small and big screens, plus script formatting techniques.

Leadership Literacy (February 5, 12, 19, 26; 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.). Harvard leadership scholar Barbara Kellerman focuses on studying literature about concepts of power, authority and influence.

 Tarot 101: A Journey to Self-Discovery (February 5, 12, 19, 26; 2 to 3 p.m.). Author, astrologer, and tarot expert Maria Sofia Marmanides teaches the 78 cards of tarot.

Write, Craft, Create: A Wellness Practice in Making Handmade Cards
(March: 5, 12, 19; 1 to 2 p.m.). Instructor Kerstin Rao, the Westport artist behind Vivid Cottage, provides a safe space for participants to tap into their feelings and craft earnest messages.

Introduction to Ikebana (March: 13, 20 & 27; 10 a.m. to noon). Sogetsu Ikebana is a modern form of the ancient art of Japanese flower arranging, using living materials. Shizue Pleasanton teaches the aesthetic discipline and traditional principles of the form.

For information on Verso University courses, including registration, click here.

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First, an owl was affixed to the Westport police station tower.

Now an eagle has joined them.

Okay, it’s not a real one. But it still qualifies for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the newest addition to the police station tower (story above):

(When we figure out Westport drone mystery, you’ll read about it first on “06880” — just like you do so often, on so many topics. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

 

Dost Thou Remember …

This weekend’s Candlelight Concert was traditional, rousing, haunting, majestic, brassy and inspiring.

It always is.

Arriving for the show. 

For 84 years, the Staples High School Music Department has offered this gift to the town.

A variety of choirs, orchestras and bands perform. Their selections are well-known and obscure. They are classical and contemporary; American, European and African.

It takes a tremendous amount of practice, preparation and care, by hundreds of talented musicians, their committed and caring teachers, and many others who work hard behind the scenes.

Volunteers festoon the lobby with festive touches.

From the unique “Sing We Noel” processional to the alumni-filled “Hallelujah Chorus,” the Candlelight Concert is Westport’s way of celebrating the season.

Not everyone could get tickets to the 3 shows. But today, thanks to Lynn Untermeyer Miller’s brilliant photography, we all can bask in its glow.

As she has for decades, Alice Addicks greets concert-goers. 

Lauren Pine rehearses her choir an hour before showtime.

The audience settles in.

“Sing We Noel” processional.

Orchestra director Jeri Brima.

Ludovit Pauliny takes a bow, after soloing on “Danse Bacchanale.”

One part of the lighter “Wreck the Halls” …

… and another.

From left: Band director Kevin Mazzarella (in his Candlelight debut), orchestra directors Carrie Mascaro and Jen Brima, and assistant band director Caitlin Serpliss acknowledge applause. 

(All photos/copyright Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Pops! Goes The (Windy) Concert

At the beginning of last night’s Staples High School Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion, emcee David Pogue made a joke about the number of times the concert has been moved inside due to rain and wildfire smoke — or canceled, because of COVID.

This time the skies were clear, the temperature perfect.

Suddenly — just a few minutes into the show — a fierce wind blew in.

Music sheets scattered. Banners flapped. It looked like an unexpected weather event would ruin the evening.

Suddenly, all was calm again. The “wind ensemble” left. The show went on … beautifully.

The Staples music department’s gift to the town showed off all the performing groups: the Symphonic Band and Orchestra, Choralaires, Orphenians, Jazz Ensemble, and several small ensembles.

The program ranged from Blood Sweat & Tears to Glen Campbell; Björk to the Beatles; Simon & Garfunkel to Freddie Mercury and Queen.

In less than a decade, the Pops Concert has become a cherished Westport tradition. It is entertaining, fun — and very, very professional.

Our Staples instructors and musicians are outstanding. The standing ovations they got were well-deserved.

And the rainbow over the stage made the night even more perfect.

Rainbow over the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Harris Falk)

Three groups performed before the show. Seamus Brannigan plays drums on “Ventura Highway.”

The Choralaires sing the national anthem. This is Lauren Pine’s first Pops Concert, as Staples’ new choral director.

The final performance for Phil Giampietro (left), Staples’ highly regarded band and jazz ensemble director. He’s leaving for Hall High-West Hartford, closer to his home in Cheshire and where he will remake their program. Gregg Winters (right) teaches band at Bedford Middle School, and jazz workshop at Staples.

Andrew Maskoff (keyboard) and Rohan Wadhwani (vocals) lead the Jazz Ensemble in “Spinning Wheel.”

Musicians look to the sky, as strong winds blow in.

Curtis Sullivan, Ethan Walmark, Henry Carson and Rohan Wadhwani harmonize on “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”

 

Eva Slossberg (2nd from left) wowed the crowed with her vocals on “Would That I.” She was accompanied by (from left) pianist Andrew Maskoff, and cellists Ellia Tobben and Kai Seo. Missing is cellist Shivali Kanthan. (Contributed photo)

The full Symphonic Orchestra, Band and Choralaires close the show with a rousing “Bohemian Rhapsody.” (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)

Roundup: Staples Lacrosse & Pops, Wynston Browne, RTM Agenda …

The Staples High School boys lacrosse team is 2-time defending state champions.

But until Thursday night, they’d never won an FCIAC (league) championship.

They did it dramatically, in Wilton. Adam Udell scored 3 goals in just 4 minutes, 20 seconds, rallying his 5th-seeded squad from a 6-3 deficit late in the 4th quarter, to a 6-6 draw.

Just 8 seconds into sudden-death overtime, Udell fired a shot. His 4th — and most dramatic goal — gave the Wreckers the win, over #2 Darien.

This was not the first clutch score for Udell. A year ago, as a sophomore, he stole an inbounds pass in the basketball state semifinal, then calmly scored a layup, to lead Staples past Fairfield Warde, and into the finals.

The lacrosse title — keyed also by goalie Josh Marcus — capped a very satisfying 5 days for Staples. During the FCIAC tournament they thrashed Wilton (9-1) and New Canaan (11-5), avenging regular season losses.

Darien also beat the Westporters, in the regular season.

The goal now is to be the first Staples boys lax team to win both an FCIAC and state title.

The road to the Connecticut crown is not easy. It begins Wednesday at home (5:30 p.m.) vs. Trumbull. Tough teams like Ridgefield, Fairfield Prep and New Canaan lie ahead.

But — with Udell, Marcus, coach Will Koshansky and a host of talented players — the Wreckers are ready.

Click here to see the full FCIAC final. Click below for Udell’s 4 goals (including his game winner), and the wild celebration that followed, courtesy of The Ruden Report.

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Speaking of Staples, a reminder: Free tickets are available at 9 a.m. this Wednesday (May 29), for the annual Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion.

This year’s show is Friday, June 7 (lawn opens at 6 p.m.; concert at 7; BYO chair; food trucks on site). The always sold-out event features the Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orphenians, Choralaires and other small group ensembles.

Once again, media personality David Pogue will serve as the warm, welcoming emcee.

Click this link — staplesmusic.org — beginning Wednesday at 9 a.m. Tickets are free, but a $15 contribution is suggested to help offset production costs.

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Speaking of the Levitt Pavilion: They’re part of today’s big Westport day.

In addition to the Fine Arts Festival downtown, and the Parks & Recreation Department Summer Kick-off at Compo, there’s a 3-band festival at our favorite outdoor entertainment venue.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The UN and Dogs in a Pile — those are all band names — take the stage, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The gate opens at 4.

Food trucks on site include the Blind Rhino, Melt Mobile, Little Pub Lobster Roll and the Dough Girls Wood-Fired Pizza.

Limited tickets ($55; $125 premium) remain. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

More Levitt news: Super Sonic Shorties has just been signed. They’ll be there June 14, en route to the Northlands Festival.

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Among the items on the agenda for the next Representative Town Meeting (Tuesday, June 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium):

A $265,000 appropriation from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, to develop a Parks Master Plan.

A $990,000 appropriation for Phase I of the Cross Highway School Zone Corridor Improvements.

A petition from Westporters “to review, discuss and reject the new Parks & Recreation regulation, or modify it in order to preserve the gardening hours at the Westport Community Garden to their prior hours during school days (i.e. no gardening between 8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.).”

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Congratulations to News 12 Connecticut — and to Wynston Browne.

Our local cable station was named an Edward R. Murrow Award New England regional winner, in the annual Radio Television Digital News competition.

News 12 won in the “Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” category, in the Television/Large Market division, for their broadcast of “My Name is Wynston Browne.”

The segment featured Wynston, a Staples High School junior who — despite being a non-speaking autistic young man — has learned to communicate using a typing device. In 2 years, he has shared his remarkable mind and keen insights with the world.

It’s a very inspiring story, told with care and compassion by News 12.

Regional winners advance to the national competition. Winners will be announced in August. Click here for a list of all New England awards.

Wynston Browne (Photo/Dan Woog)

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As Memorial Day nears, American flags are sprouting around town.

Lauri Weiser was heartened to see these, lining the Lansdowne condominium driveway:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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An inspiring photo of a different kind is Andrew Colabella’s image of Long Island Sound.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

It’s a nice reminder too that — though the sign says otherwise — lifeguard coverage starts Monday, at Compo and Burying Hill Beaches, and the Longshore pool.

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But Westporters got an early start yesterday on the holiday weekend. This was the Friday late-afternoon scene at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Unfortunately, another tradition continues: Hook’d’s closed doors.

Despite the crowds — and their supposed closing time of 7:30 p.m. — the doors were locked before then.

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The sold-out crowd at Thursday’s Westport Library conversation with James Comey was surprised.

Most attendees figured the former FBI director, former Bridgewater Associates counsel and former Westporter would talk about his new book “Westport” — the plot involves the fictional world’s biggest hedge fund, Saugatuck Associates — and avoid or deflect questions about the most controversial aspect of his career: his decision in late October 2016 to announce that the FBI had reopened an investigation into presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s emails.

But under pointed and persistent questioning from Westport’s Dave Briggs — a well-established TV personality — Comey was honest, self-reflective, forthcoming, and quite opinionated.

If you missed the event, no problem. The Library’s recorded it. Click below, for an insightful, insider’s view of Washington and the world:

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This sign was just posted near the “blue house” at 233 Hillspoint Road, diagonally across from Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

(Photo/Michael Friedland)

It’s big.

There are substantial cement footings.

And since when has Westport been a “city”?!

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Brian Lewis — chef ad owner of The Cottage and OKO — adds a new dining twist this summer.

BANA is a “seasonal and elevated pop-up dining experience. Each menu draws inspiration from global gastronomic traditions and cultural richness, promising an exhilarating exploration of flavors” in Fairfield and Westchester Counties.

That first BANA is Saturday, July 20 (7 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm). The event celebrates “the treasures and techniques of both the New England and Japanese coastlines.” Lewis’ tasting menu will showcase fish, shellfish, and vegetables sourced from the New England coastline and local farms.

Tickets are $200 per person, or $275 per person with a special sake and wine pairing (including sales tax and a 22% service fee).

25% of all proceeds support Brian Lewis’ Family Meal Foundation. It provides comfort and support through delicious meals, brought to the homes of people in need when they are healing from the loss of a loved one, or face medical and emotional challenges.

For tickets and more information, click here.

Chef Brian Lewis

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Westport is looking particularly beautiful these days.

Among the spots to admire: Lynda Ialeggio’s patio, on Old Mill Beach. It’s a perfect “Westport … Naturally” scene this Memorial Day weekend.

(Photo/Lynda Ialeggio)

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And finally … on this date in 1878, Gilbert and Sullivan’s “H.M.S. Pinafore” opened in London.

(It’s a holiday weekend. But “06880” never takes a break. We’re here for you 24/7/365 — 366, this leap year. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!

 

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

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.)

“I Found The Light”: Commissioned Piece Premiers At Candlelight

The Candlelight Concert is one of Westport’s most beloved traditions.

From the haunting “Sing We Noel” processional to the majestic “Hallelujah Chorus” — with choirs, orchestras, bands and a special production number in between — the Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town is a centerpiece of the holiday season.

It’s hard to imagine anything more special. But this weekend’s 83rd annual concert promises an astonishing addition.

Two Class of 2013 graduates — composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber — have collaborated on a piece commissioned solely for this year’s Candlelight.

“I Found the Light” is the Music Department’s first commissioned work in 40 years. The world premiere marks a new chapter in the school’s rich musical heritage.

A video that will play before each concert this weekend offers background into the artistic process, from the composer, the librettist, and Staples’ orchestra, band and choral directors.

The video provides an intimate look into the creative process and the significant impact this commission has had on students and faculty. It underscores the vital role of new art and contemporary artists in our world, and shows how Staples students have a unique chance to contribute to the creation of new music.

The story behind the commission is so compelling, and the video so insightful, that it deserves the widest possible audience.

So here it is. Click below or — if your browser does not support embedding — click here.

 

Ethan Walmark: Westport’s Music Man

When Ethan Walmark was 18 months old, he was placed on the autism spectrum. He began receiving services, like speech and occupational therapy.

At 3 years old, his Stepping Stones teacher told his parents: “Take away Ethan’s music. When he listens to it, he goes into his own world. You want him to be in our world.”

They were stunned. Allison Ziering Walmark’s father was a professional musician. When she was pregnant with Ethan, she and her husband Michael sang to him every night.

“From the day he was born, even though he was always happy, whenever he heard music, you could almost see a magical transformation,” Allison recalls.

“He became one with the music. At Music Together classes, we got a sense he was trying to figure out the melodies and rhythms.”

She and Michael thought it would be cruel to take away something he loved so much, and showed so much talent for.

They not only ignored the advice — they added the amount of music in his life.

Young Ethan Walmark.

“Music is the universal language,” Allison says. “It brought him immeasurable happiness.”

Ethan began music therapy with the Connecticut School of Music, plus private piano and keyboard lessons.

The next year, Bobbi Burns — another Stepping Stones teacher– excitedly called Allison.

Bobbi said that when she played Little Richard’s “Itsy Bitsy Spiker,” Ethan sang the melody — then chimed in on the harmony too.

“That’s never happened before!” the teacher said. “He’s something special!”

At Kings Highway Elementary School, Ethan learned the upright bass. He performed in musicals, and sang with the chorus.

But that’s just part of Ethan’s story.

When he was 6 years old, a YouTube video of you playing “Piano Man” went viral.

He performed live on the “Today Show.”

He became one of only 14 people worldwide — and the youngest — to receive a “Genius of Autism” award. Then he won it again.

The Huffington Post named him 1 of 20 “Child Prodigies.”

He helped Yoko Ono flip the switch to light the Empire State Building blue for World Autism Awareness Day.

Meeting Ethan before a concert, John Mayer said, “Hey, I know you! You’re the internet sensation!”

Ethan’s performance of “Eminence Front” rocked a Who show.

He appeared on NBC’s “Today Show” and CBS’s “Early Show.” He sang the national anthem in front of 25,000 fans at Red Bull Arena.

As a 12-year-old Coleytown Middle School student, Ethan followed Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Billy Joel and Elton John at the 1st-ever Autism Awareness Gala Fundraiser at the Kennedy Center in Washington. 

He brought down the house. He performed 4 songs, closing with “You are the Sunshine of My Life.” Ethan dedicated it to his sister Eliza, who was in the audience.

When CMS was remote during COVID, he taught himself to play guitar. (He can really shred.)

He joined School of Rock. He formed a band — and great friendships — with other musicians there.

Ethan Walmark, on the keytar.

The Walmarks looked forward to Staples High School, where Ethan could join the outstanding music program.

It did not disappoint. Now, as a senior, Ethan has truly found his niche. He has been embraced by the Music Department staff and students.

He is a member of the Tri-M National Music Honor Society. From freshman year on, he has sung with the elite Orphenians group. He’s a Choralaire, a charter member of the A Cappella Club, and pianist for the Jazz Ensemble.

Ethan Walmark (center) with (from left) Rohan Wadhwani, Curtis Sullivan, Max Ardrey and Ben Herrera. They performed Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time” at last spring’s Staples Pops Concert.

Ethan was selected for the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Treble Chorus, and is a 2-time CMEA Western Region Mixed Choir honoree.

He’s won 5 straight School of Rock All-Star competitions, as a keyboardist and vocalist. He plays in 3 bands, all over the tri-state area.

You can see Ethan in one of them — Strictly Business — tomorrow (Saturday). They play from 7 to 11 p.m. at 314 Beer Garden, in South Norwalk.

And in the classroom, Ethan is a consistent Honor Roll student.

Ethan Walmark shreds it.

Ethan has auditioned at several top contemporary music colleges.

“Ethan’s story should inspire — and be a lesson for — any parent with a child, whether neuro-divergent or neuro-typical,” Allison says.

“Advocate for your child. Do what your gut tells you. Advice is nice. But only you know your child.”

(To see a collection of Ethan Walmark’s music videos, click here.) 

(“06880” often highlights outstanding young Westporters. If you enjoy these stories, please support our work. Just click here — and thank you!)

Ethan Walmark, on vocals.

Pops! Goes The Concert

The threat of rain and poor air quality drove the 7th annual Staples High Pops Concert indoors yesterday.

The move from the Levitt Pavilion to the school auditorium was unfortunate.

But the show must go on. And it did — in the traditional spectacular, wow-’em-with-talent-and-creativity fashion.

Pre-concert music featured groups like this. Colin Morgeson (piano — and “06880” intern), Josh Deitch (drums), Tegh Singh (guitar, rear), Jeffrey Pogue (vocals) and Whitman Teplica (guitar) rocked out “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”

Small vocal and instrumental groups, the Jazz Ensemble, Choralaires and Symphonic Orchestra played eclectic sets. Individual talents were showcased; so was the tight, well-honed work of larger groups.

Ben Herrera offered a stunning “You’ll Be Back” from “Hamilton.” “Now you don’t have to pay $1,500 for a ticket,” MC David Pogue said.

MC David Pogue — the proud father of 2 Staples music graduates, and one more next week — kept the show moving with his trademark humor and educational asides. As he noted often, it was almost as if the audience was under the stars.

Shanti Wimmer, backed by the Jazz Ensemble, sang a sultry version of Al Jolson’s “Avalon.”

Well, they were. The stars of the night were scores of Staples students, doing what they love, for a town that appreciates them and their wonderful teachers.

(From left): Rohan Wadhwani, Curtis Sullivan, Ethan Walmark, Max Ardrey and Ben Herrera, performed Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time.”

James Dobin-Smith, accompanied by Andrew Maskoff on piano, offered Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

Host David Pogue brought the magic of the Levitt Pavilion into the Staples auditorium.

The Staples music educators who make magic happen. From left: Phil Giampietro, Caitlin Serpliss, Jeri Hockensmith, Luke Rosenberg. Missing: Carrie Mascaro. (All photos/Dan Woog)

Now Let Hosannas Ring …

This weekend’s Candlelight Concert — the 82nd since 1940 — honored both its long and storied tradition, and kept it fresh and new.

The choral symphonic and jazz ensembles awed the full auditorium with their voices and musicianship. The program — from the traditional, lovely “Sing We Noel” through the stunning “Nutcracker Suite,” rousing “Jubilate Deo” and clever production number, to the powerful “Home Alone Suite” and rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — was both proof that our town’s young artists are very alive, quite well (and superbly well-trained), and that even in times of uncertainty and division, all can be right in Westport.

Congratulations and thanks to all who made Candlelight possible: choral director Luke Rosenberg; orchestra directors Carrie Mascaro and Jeri Hockensmith; band director Phil Giampietro; townwide music and visual arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman — and of course all the teenage musicians, who gave us the gift of music.

And of course thanks to Lynn Untermeyer Miller, who captured all the magic of the show.

The stage …

… and the lobby …

… the welcoming musicians …

… the ubiquitous Alice Addicks …

… the “Sing We Noel” processional …

… the orchestra …

… in tune with each other …

… an intense gaze …

… the Jazz Combo plays “Frosty the Red-Nosed Christmas Tree” …

… and the vocal duet “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow” …

… and the music …

… and the production number, Don Rickenback’s original “Holiday Greeting Letter” …

… and another production number view …

… while Jeri Hockensmith (rear) introduces her Staples music department staff (from left) Carrie Moscaro, Luke Rosenberg, Nick Giampietro and Don Rickenback. (All photos/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

(Happy holidays! If you’d like to help support this hyper-local blog, please click here. Thank you!)