In 2001, David Roth kicked off his second year as Staples Players director with a surefire favorite: “The Music Man.”
His troupe did not disappoint. Today “06880” offers our audience — those who saw it, those who missed it, those who were not here and those who were not yet born — a chance to relive its high-energy magic.
Former Staples High School media teacher Jim Honeycutt taped all of Roth’s shows. Now, he’s selecting highlights to share with our readers.
Click here or below, for “Trouble in River City,” “76 Trombones,” “Lida Rose and more.
Last week, “06880” introduced a new feature: a video look back at Staples Players’ productions.
Staples High School media teacher Jim Honeycutt started taping shows when David Roth became director, in 2000. His first — and Honeycutt’s first “nutshell” highlight video — was “Guys & Dolls.”
Today we rewind back to Roth’s second musical: Rupert Holmes’ “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” the show-within-a-show based on Charles Dickens’ unfinished novel.
Click here or below, to see 9 minutes from the spring 2001 show.
During his 3 decades teaching at Staples High School, Jim Honeycutt helped develop the Media Lab.
It grew from radio and television production into a full-fledged, versatile studio.
Jim and his students recorded TV shows, Candlelight Concerts, and many Staples Players productions.
For several months, Jim — now retired — has been creating “nutshells” from the archives. They’re brief (10 minutes or so) highlights of every show, beginning with director David Roth’s first one in 2000.
It was “Guys and Dolls.”
Jim is sending these nutshells to “06880.” He hopes readers enjoy the shows — whether they were there then or not. Click here or below, for “Luck Be a Lady,” “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” and many more classics.
(“06880” covers Staples High School, Westport’s entertainment scene, and so much more — and we do it 24/7/365. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
He’s a gifted artist, graphic designer and photographer. He designed a Time magazine cover and a US postage stamp, while still in his 20s.
The son of a noted illustrator, he’s a Staples High School graduate who has spent his career in Westport. He serves corporate clients, but never says no to pro bono work on behalf of local causes. He’s designed logos, posters and promotional materials for a host of organizations.
Miggs created the Westport town flag — and the lenticular photos that grace 2 important spots: the “Tunnel of Love” between Main Street and Parker Harding Plaza, and Saugatuck train station.
Downtown Tunnel of Love (Photo/Susan Leone)
He’s a founder of — and a guiding force behind — the Artists Collective of Westport. And you see him every Memorial Day, as our very own living, breathing Minute Man.
(Photo/Ted Horowitz)
He’s an all-around great, giving guy.
And today, Miggs Burroughs turns 80 years old.
Happy birthday, Miggs! Thanks for all you have done — and continue to do — for Westport, and beyond. Here’s to many years of health, happiness, creativity and coolness. (Hat tip: Carmine Picarello)
Justin Paul’s experience in Staples Players — the high school’s award-winning drama program — was foundational to his award-winning career that followed.
The 2003 graduate and his songwriting partner, Benj Pasek, created “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.” They’re the youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winners ever.
High school theater changes many more lives than Paul’s, of course. Wauwatosa (Wisconsin) High just became the first school troupe anywhere to stage “Dear Evan Hansen.”
This weekend, “CBS Saturday Morning” highlighted the production. Included in the story was an interview with Paul and Pasek — and a touching scene of the duo telling the 17-year-old star to “break an arm” (IYKYK). Click here or below to see.
There’s also a link to a full, longer interview with Paul and Pasek. It’s well worth the 38 minutes — excellent questions, and insightful responses (particularly about the importance of high school theater). Click here or below to see. (Hat tip: John Dodig)
The honor recognizes “leadership, innovation, and measurable impact across the radio industry.”
The recognition follows Connoisseur’s acquisition of Alpha Media’s assets, a move that propelled them into the top 10 US radio operators by revenue.
“The spirit of entrepreneurism is alive in the radio industry,” Warshaw Radio Ink interview. “We have pep in our step.”
Radio Ink president and publisher Deborah Parenti calls Warshaw “a risk taker and visionary.”
Editor-in-chief Cameron Coats says that in 2025 Warshaw combined “vision, discipline, and belief in what local radio can still achieve.”
Jeff Warshaw at his desk, overlooking Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Staples High School Class of 1998 graduate Sage Hammond died peacefully on Friday.
She attended the School of Visual Arts, where she deepened her lifelong love of fashion, design and visual expression.
Her obituary says, “Smart and sassy, Sage lived her life on her own terms. She was known for her quick wit, an exceptional sense of style, and a natural talent for both fashion and interior design. Wherever she lived, she created spaces that reflected her bold taste and creative eye.
“Sage was also a gifted cook who loved sharing gourmet meals with friends, and turning ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions. She loved animals deeply, particularly cats, and over her lifetime shared her heart and home with many.
“Despite her own struggles, Sage had an instinctive ability to lift others up, often making people laugh when they needed it most. Her humor, warmth, and authenticity left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
“Sage lived boldly, loved deeply, and never believed in dull moments—she wouldn’t want one now.”
She was predeceased by her grandfather, Larry Racies. She is survived by her mother, Robin Hammond; father Jon Hammond; sister Gabriele Hammond (Bradley Topar); nephew Oliver and grandmother Gail Williams.
A celebration of Sage’s life will be held at a later date.
If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.
You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.
They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.
Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s.
Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!
Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.
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Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?
Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?
Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.
The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.
The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.
At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.
Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.
Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.
His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.
Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.
Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.
But that’s not all.
Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).
A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).
“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.
Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.
Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?
Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:
“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.
“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.
“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.
“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.
“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 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!
Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.
This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).
Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.
Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.
A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.
Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.
She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.
Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.
Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.
She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.
Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.
Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.
Growing up in Westport, Sarah Bennett acted in Music Theatre of Connecticut, at Coleytown Middle School and with Staples Players.
She was not always a star. But she loved her roles in ensembles, and the chance to act and direct in Staples’ One-Act Play Festival.
At Staples Sarah Bennett was in “Merrily We Roll Along,” with fellow Player (and future University of Michigan classmate) Justin Paul.
Now — more than 20 years later — the Class of 2004 graduate realizes how meaningful it was to audition (and try out for sports teams) and not make all of them. She had many positive experiences, even when not in the spotlight.
After studying English and film at the University of Michigan, earning a master’s in education at Lehman College and studying leadership, organization and entrepreneurship at Harvard, Sarah has taught middle school in New York City since 2008.
She loves “watching kids transform through the warped reality they go through” during adolescence.
Sarah Bennett
Part of that transformation comes through Harlem Stories. Sarah is the founder and executive director of the non-profit, which empowers 6th through 8th graders to tell stories of their West Harlem neighborhood, through ensemble work they create after conducting interviews with residents.
Their website says, “We’re shy and outgoing. Goofy and serious. Outgoing and reserved.
“Some of us have acting experience prior to THSP. For some of us this is new. For all of us, we are committed to exploring and amplifying our voices through the narratives we tell.”
Sarah says, “It’s been magnificent to watch kids explore their curiosities, revise their interests and paths, and take risks both through improvisation and writing the show itself.”
Sarah Bennett, at work with students.
They also learn the very important skill of public speaking.
“It’s been an honor to witness their middle school journey and development. Regardless of whether these kids pursue arts or theater in high school and beyond, they will carry the confidence and self-assurance that can only come from being part of a cast.”
In 3 years, Harlem Stories has grown to 29 students, now in their own studio.
Harlem Stories kids, at work.
She cites the example of Malakai, an 8th grader who gathered stories in Marcus Garvey Park. After engaging with strangers, and learning their stories, he is sifting through transcripts, creating a character and writing a monologue for the April 16 show.
Sarah is not the only Westporter working with Harlem Stories. Players alum Ginny Levy helps with playwriting, and as a teaching artist.
Sarah and Ginny are proud of all that their young students have accomplished. They appreciate the opportunity to pass along the life lessons they learned in Westport, and through Staples Players.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie says: Westport will soon complete its state-mandated property revaluation. Connecticut law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation every 5 years.
Property owners will receive updated assessment notices by mail on or about December 8. They reflect assessed values as of October 1, based on field reviews and sales analysis completed by the Assessor’s Office and Vision Government Solutions. Assessed value is 70% of fair market value.
Residential values have risen sharply since the October 2020 revaluation. Estimates indicate an average increase of about 61% for residential properties, and about 17% for commercial properties. Individual assessments will vary.
A higher assessment does not mean your taxes will rise by the same amount.
A change in your assessment is only part of how property taxes are calculated. When the overall Grand List increases, the mill rate typically decreases (all else being equal). Any change to your tax bill will depend on how your new assessment compares to others in town, and on the Town’s approved budget in spring 2026.
Updated property data and values will be available online once notices are sent.
Property owners who believe information about their property is incorrect, or who would like to discuss their valuation, can request an appointment with Vision later in December.
Appeal applications to the Board of Assessment Appeals will be available after the Grand List is signed. They must be filed by February 20, 2026.
Main Street may soon have a new casual dining space.
159 Main Street — occupied most recently by a deli with that name; before that, Rye Ridge and, most famously for decades, Oscar’s — will be the site of Luya.
Westport Journal reported today that the family spot — with smoothies, along with healthy and diner food — is the third project for Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean and Zoli Kovacs.
They are the owner, general manager and chef of Nômade, across the street from Luya.
The trio are also partners in Anan. The French-Vietnamese restaurant — on the site of the former 190 Main — also hopes for a spring opening.
Long-time Westporters remember 159 Main Street as Oscar’s Deli. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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On Wednesday, Playbill posted a long, intriguing story about the 6 actors who play the lead role every night in “Masquerade,” the innovative, immersive staging of “Phantom of the Opera.”
One of the six — Staples High School graduate Clay Singer — is one of the youngest to play the Phantom ever, anywhere.
His insights into his character — how he prepared for it, how he plays it — are well worth reading.
But the piece is notable for something else: homages by the actors to Kevin Gray. Broadway’s first-ever Asian American Phantom in 1990 has the same roots as Singer. Gray graduated from Staples in 1976. Both Westport Phantoms were Staples Players stars.
Gray died of a heart attack, at just 55 years old, in 2013 — just 4 months before Singer graduated from Staples.
Westport art teachers are superb educators. From elementary through middle and high school they instruct, encourage and inspire students to express themselves creatively and fully.
But those teachers are superb artists themselves.
Now through January 3rd, they’ve got a showcase for their own work.
One River School’s Westport Art Teacher Exhibition provides a special opportunity to see the personal and professional sides — and the wide range of mediums and styles — of Mark Derosa, Cecily Cowburn Anderson, Stephanie Sileo, Angela Simpson, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.
A reception is set for December 18 (5 to 7 p.m., 833 Post Road East). The public — including students — are invited to check out this other perspective on Westport’s art teachers.
Part of the Westport Art Teacher Exhibition, at One River Gallery.
Speaking of art: The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit runs December 17 -21, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. The opening reception (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m.) features food, beverages, and music by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin (Paul Butterfield Blues Band).
All works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.
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We’re just one day away from the Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.
And merchants keep signing up for giveaways and promotions.
The latest is Chocolatieree. The Church Lane shop offers “blissfully toasted and gooey s’moresticks,” with every purchase of at least $20.
That — and 60 other specials — are part of tomorrow’s (Saturday) Stroll. Some are available only during the Stroll itself (4 to 7 p.m.); others run all day. Click here, then scroll down for the full list.
Among the attractions at the 5th annual Holiday Stroll: caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, thanks to Riverside Realty Group (plus the brand-new downtown clock), face painting, a DJ, a “letters to Santa” mailbox, and much more.
The Staples Orphenians are a Holiday Stroll favorite. (Photo/Dan Woog)
See you at the Stroll!
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As the weather gets cold, Earthplace heats up. On tap this month:
Winged Wonders (Sunday, December 7, 1 to 1:30 p.m.; free with admission): Experience birds of prey outside their enclosures, in a bird-on-glove demonstration.
Kids’ Night Out (December 12, 6 to 9 p.m., ages 4-13; $50 members, $60 non-members): A nature-themed evening, including a winter-themed movie, popcorn, and a special treat from Bartaco
Winter Solstice Campfire (December 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; member families $25, non-member families $35): Celebrate the days getting longer with s’mores, a craft project, and a roaring fire.
Also: Drop-off programs — with immersive, nature-based experiences — begin January 6:
Free-Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1 to 3p.m., ages 4-11)
Lil’ Naturalists (Wednesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades K-2)
Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4 to 5 p.m.,. grades 3-6)
Junior Staff (Fridays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12_
Animal Care Crew (Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12).
Speaking of Earthplace: They just received a $162,600, from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund.
The grant will help provide watershed science programs for high school and college students. The total amount of the project $243,900. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)
Staples High School’s November Students of the Month are seniors Jennifer Londono and Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny and Elias Ramos, sophomores Lucy Bughman and Noa Katz, and freshmen Max Landau and Blake Serotta.
Students of the Month are “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students (who make it) the special place it is.” Nominations are made by teachers.
From left: Blake Serotta, Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny, Lucy Bughman, Noa Katz, Elias Ramos.
Westport resident Julie Parillo died in her sleep yesterday. She was 65 years old.
A 1978 graduate of CVA in Norwalk, Julie began her career at Deluxe Check Printers in Norwalk before moving to New Jersey, where she worked for One Call Medical.
Julie loved all creatures, especially her dogs Reba and Brandy. She was a kind and gentle soul who treasured time spent with her family and with her best friend, Teresa Smith.
She is survived by her mother Arlyne, brother Peter (Dana) Parillo, niece Jessica, nephew Dan, close cousin Pamela Mahon, and several other cousins. Her best friend was Teresa Smith. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael Parillo.
A funeral is set for December 9 (10 a.m., Harding Funeral Home). Interment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.
Julie Parillo
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Every full moon draws “06880” photographers.
It’s tough to choose. But this shot by Rick Benson — overlooking Old Mill Beach, at very low tide — works especially well for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Steve Cropper — who the New York Times calls “the prodigious guitarist, songwriter and producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the lean gutbucket soul music made at Memphis’s Stax Records in the 1960s and ’70s,” died Wednesday in Nashville. He was 84.
Casual music fans may not have known his name. But nearly everyone knows his work: the “snarling Fender Telecaster lick” on Booker T & the MGs’ “Green Onions”; the “ringing guitar figure” that opened Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man,” and the “bell-toned guitar work” on Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” (which he co-wrote). He later worked with the Blues Brothers.
In 2015 he was ranked 39th on Rolling Stone‘s list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. In 1996, Mojo had him second — behind only Jimi Hendrix.
The Times notes, “the original MG’s lineup, with both Black and white members (Mr. Cropper was white), helped integrate Stax at a time when the four men would not have been permitted to appear on a public bandstand together in the segregated South.” Click here for the full Times obituary.)
Staples High School graduate Roger Kaufman — a musician and events producer with Old School Music — knew Cropper. Kaufman urged him to donate the guitar he played on “Dock of the Bay” to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
On December 1, 2016 — almost exactly 9 years ago — there was a special ceremony there. In attendance were Booker T. Jones, Sam Moore, Eddie Floyd, and members of the Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes families. Cropper and his band played many of their greatest hits.
Then the guitar went on display — right next to Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” slippers.
The honors keep coming for the Staples High School boys soccer team.
In addition to being state champions, they are ranked #1 in the nation by Max Preps.
It’s been more than 20 years since the Wreckers were rated that high. This week, they edged out perennial #1 St. Benedict’s Prep of New Jersey. What a kick!
Speaking of remarkable Staples achievements: Players actors, pit orchestra — even the box office — have all received lavish praise, for their part in the rousing success of “Les Misérables.”
The tech crew — set designers and builders, lighting and sound — have gotten well-deserved kudos too. The turntable was particularly impressive.
But here’s one more member who may have been overlooked.
Because he toiled — literally — behind the scenes.
Junior Theo Rowan spent all 10 performances on stage, but beneath the back bridge. He made sure that each turntable cue went according to plan.
A couple of times, it malfunctioned. Theo thought quickly, and solved the problems so the show could go on.
Bravo, Theo! You were indeed the “master of the house.”
Theo Rowan, on stage. (Photo/Kerry Long)
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Speaking still of Staples Players: 2024 graduate Cameron Mann has been added to Hulu’s “Foster Dade” pilot, Variety reports.
The show is a “sophisticated mystery set at an East Coast boarding school that explores privilege, scandal, sexuality, and masculinity amid the rise of social media, millennial anxiety and pharmaceuticals.”
Cameron has appeared on TV and movie screens in a number of roles, including “Mare of Easttown” and “Eddington.” He is a sophomore at the University of Michigan.
Fun fact: His mother, Jill Johnson Mann, grew up 2 houses from Aimee East, in a small Rochester, New York suburb. Aimee’s daughter Chloe East is also in the “Foster Dade” cast.
Class of 2003 graduate Justin Paul and his writing partner Benj Pasek are teaming up with J.P. Brammer to bring one of their favorite animals to the page.
People magazine calls their new book, “Axl the Axolotl Is Not a Frog,” a “funny and inspiring picture book about ‘learning to love and what makes you different.'”
Pasek and Paul — whose previous Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award-winning projects include “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land” and “The Greatest Showman” — tell People: “We hope this character and the world he inhabits inspire readers of all ages to embrace and celebrate the things that make them uniquely themselves, in this first of hopefully many Axl stories to come.” Click here for the full story.
Justin Paul has not forgotten his Staples Players roots. Last year, he worked with the cast of one of his earliest shows: “James and the Giant Peach.” (Photo/Kerry Long)
Tacombi — Danny Meyer’s Mexican restaurant — appears to have closed. It opened near Stop & Stop just over 2 years ago, building on 11 locations in trendy New York neighborhoods.
Google says it is “temporarily closed,” but a recording on its phone number says “closed” — leaving out “temporarily.”
Meyer’s other Westport eatery — Shake Shack — appears to be doing quite well.
Westport psychotherapist Dr. Allyson Maida has published a new book.
“180: A Counterintuitive Method for Personal and Professional Change” is about brain function and behavior. Written in an easy, conversational style, it’s brief, to the point, and filled with relatable examples
The “180” comes from the fact that while people often promise themselves things will be different, somehow and somewhere, they tend to end up back (or close to) where they began.
Maida offers a 5-step guide to reshape brain connections rather than battling them, so real change can last. “for the most part, it’s all in your head,” she says.
And finally … Jimmy Cliff died yesterday. The singer who helped introduce reggae to the world was 81.
I was part of that audience. Shortly after “The Harder They Come” — the film he starred in — was released, it was shown at the Westport Country Playhouse.
That was my introduction to the Jamaican genre. Though Cliff’s fame was eclipsed by Bob Marley, that soundtrack remains one of my favorite albums of all time.
(“06880” continues to salute the many achievements of Staples students and graduates. We cover everything else in Westport, too. If you enjoy this blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
On Thursday, Westporters will sit down to Thanksgiving feasts.
There will be turkey, football and naps. There should also be thanks. That’s the whole idea.
This week, I feel very thankful.
I am thankful that — decades ago — my parents moved to Westport. Growing up in this community has profoundly shaped my life. The teachers I had; the friends I made; the values I absorbed — all helped make me the person I am today.
I am thankful that some of those values — like giving back to those less fortunate — remain strong today. In just the past month alone, organizations like the Rotary Clubs roared into the breach when the Homes with Hope food pantry was overwhelmed. The Westport Firefighters Charitable Fund donated 1,000 turkeys to Bridgeporters. A&S Fine Foods prepared Thanksgiving meals for dozens more, and residents added pies to the meals.
Homes with Hope’s food pantry was full.
Just this past weekend, Staples’ Service League of Boys raised thousands of dollars for a Staples Tuition Grants scholarship honoring Perrin Delorey, an elementary school friend killed in an automobile accident 8 years ago.
Speaking of Staples: I am thankful that hundreds of students have the immense talent, energy, passion and pride — and countless adults inspiring and guiding them — to produce Players’ astonishing production of “Les Misérables.” The gift they gave 10 sold-out audiences is beyond measure.
I am thankful too that members of the Staples boys soccer program gave the entire town a lesson in maturity, commitment and hard work. Their state championship run this month was exciting, inspirational — and fun.
I am thankful that our municipal election this month drew dozens of smart, qualified and eager candidates. Our choices were difficult; there were many excellent men and women to choose from. I am thankful that turnout was the highest in years — and hopeful that it continues to grow.
I am extremely thankful for the Westport Library. Bill Harmer and his kick-ass crew have made an outstanding building into an even more outstanding town gem. From wide-ranging programming to a first-class media facility — augmented by staff members who know everything — it awes everyone who sees it for the first time. (Senator Richard Blumenthal, a frequent visitor, calls it simply “the best.”) I hope we never take our tremendous library for granted.
All day — and into the night — the Westport Library is a community gathering spot. (Photo/Michael Chait)
I am thankful that, just a couple of years after comingthisclose to closing, the Westport Country Playhouse has not only survived, but flourishes. They carry on our town’s rich arts heritage — and are joined by relative newcomers like the Westport Arts Collective and MoCA\CT. Not to mention other entertainment options like the Levitt Pavilion (a mere 5 decades old).
I am thankful for so many organizations that expand my mind and horizons, like StartUp Westport, and for groups like the VFW, which open their doors to all.
I am thankful for new businesses that have placed a big bet on Westport, like the Delamar hotel and The Clubhouse; for restaurants that are creating a statewide buzz, and for all the recent residents, who bring a fresh sense of vitality (along with young kids).They’ve chosen our town for all the right reasons — its schools, culture, beaches, amenities, beauty. ideals, and spirit of involvement — and they are making it their own. Just as my parents did, all those decades ago.
A move to make Westport more walkable and bikeable is being driven by new, young residents.
I am truly thankful for our first responders. Westport’s Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services are the best of the best. If you’ve needed them: you know. If you haven’t: someday: you will. And then you’ll be even more thankful.
I am thankful, of course, for the opportunity to do my part for this great community, through “06880.” But this blog is nothing without you: our readers. I am truly thankful that you follow us, let me know about items of interest (and passing stories of interest along to others), and comment (especially civilly).
That’s me. Those are my thanks.
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Thank you!
This guy is thankful he’s roaming the streets of Westport, not stuck in a supermarket case. (Photo/William Webster)
The 2-week, 10-show run of Staples Players’ “Les Misérables” has ended.
All those lucky enough to see it are talking about it.
They will be, for quite a while.
Rachel Markus speaks for many. She says:
Ten shows. Hundreds of costumes. Countless hours of rehearsals. Technical learning, testing, set building, painting, prop making, wigs, makeup, meals for 70+ students, rides to and from Staples, publicity runs, student and professional musicians providing the score, a successful food drive, and — by my estimate — over 8,000 tickets sold.
Ten thousand lives touched.
My gratitude is unbridled. To the firector and producers, to the entire Staples Players cast and crew, to the Players parents who volunteer in every imaginable way, and to the former Players parents who continue to show up — taking on major roles like costuming — simply for the love of theater, students, and the staff and advisors who guide them.
It truly takes a village.
Thank you to the local businesses and benefactors who donated funds and meals, helping make this production possible and giving students the fuel they needed to rehearse “just one hour more.”
Thank you to every patron who came, cried, cheered and celebrated the passion and dedication behind this majestic, epic run — one that rivaled professional productions. This community values the arts. It expects excellence, rewards it, and spreads the word when a show cannot be missed.
Staples Players’ “Les Misérables” was more than a testament to teamwork or the power of music and drama to move us. It was months of quiet, unsung sacrifices that culminated in roughly 1,650 minutes of transformation and transcendence. No one sat in a suburban high school auditorium — together, we were transported to 19th-century France, into a world of love, pain, loss, and revolution.
To everyone in 06880 and beyond who contributed to this unforgettable theatrical run: You are the heroes.
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