Staples Alum Sam Laskin Returns To Westport Again Leading The Dartmouth Brovertones
On Monday, Staples class of 2020’s Sam Laskin once again brought the a cappella group to Westport, performing at Saugatuck Congregational Church before a packed audience which gave the highly talented group a standing ovation.
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Their website said, “ Originally named Final Cut, the group was traditionally known for singing popular songs from the 80s and 90s. Over the years, they have become one of the premier a cappella groups on campus. The group sings a large variety of songs, ranging from chart-topping hits to Dartmouth traditionals. They arrange all of their own music and each Bro has a say in which songs are performed and have released five albums. The latest, titled "Bro Ties," was released in January of 2019. Every December they embark on our Winter Tour, performing at numerous colleges, alumni clubs, and other venues along the east coast. They hold auditions every fall in conjunction with the other campus a cappella groups.”
The group brings a high-energy spin to their performances with some great moves not normally seen in a cappella shows. They perhaps surprised the audience members who had not previously seen this group by opening with the Backstreet Boy’s “I Want It That Way” which blended into NSYNC’s hit, “Bye Bye Bye” with several Bros singing leads with the rest singing back up harmonies. A Dartmouth traditional song, “Hanover Winter”. Next, they did some surfing to a medley of Beach Boys tunes. Their clever arrangement of 12 Days Of Christmas in which they re-ordered the days and added ab libs, bringing laughter and applause from the audience. They brought a country flair, performing Wagon Wheel written by Bob Dylan and Ketch Secor, recently popularized by Darius Rucker’s cover.
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If you missed this stellar performance it can be Viewed On YouTube.
Staples Orphenians Take The Stage On Monday Following The Brovertones At Saugatuck Congregational
Always a thrill to hear, Staples High School Orphenians was led by the schools, new choral director, Lauren Pine. Pine bright her 40 Orphenians to the stage following the Dartmouth Brovertones at Saugatuck Congregational, in a wonderfully performed selection of holiday favorites. Selections included “The Winter’s Night”, “Caroling, Caroling”, showing the perfect harmonies this a cappella group is noted for. They next turned to the classic ballet from the Nutcracker with their “Dance Of The Sugar-Plum Fairy and closed with a spirited “Jingle Bells” which brought the crowd to their feet.
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About The Orphenians:
Founded by Dr. George Weigle in 1958, the Orphenians have been the premiere vocal ensemble in Westport for more than six decades. Over those many years, the Orphenians have performed across the globe; including nearly every country in Europe, the United State's West Coast, Australia and most recently Hawaii (summer of 2023).
Under the direction of Lauren Pine, this year's ensemble consists of 40 auditioned students ranging from 9th to 12th grade. Known for their many holiday performances throughout the town of Westport, they have become an integral part of the local community during the holiday season and year round. In fact, after this performance, the group went home to change into their formal wear to join the Dartmouth Brovertones, led by Sam Laskin, Staples 2020 graduate and a President of the Staples Players in a special holiday concert at Saugatuck Congregational Church.
If you missed this stellar performance it can be Viewed On YouTube.
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Twinkling Lights And The Sounds Of The Season Begin The Holidays At Westport Town Hall
The Westport community gathered at Town Hall as they have for many years to enjoy the well-loved annual tradition of lighting the Westport Town Hall Christmas tree last night. A large crowd of 150 or more Westporters and area residents joined for the festivities.
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First Selectwoman Jen Tooker gave remarks on the spirit of the season in this welcoming community which values inclusion and acceptance of all it’s residents and visitors. She also noted the efforts of the Westport DPW in getting the tree ready for the big moment, which takes the entire day to accomplish. The nearly 50 foot tree is out of reach for the town bucket truck so the town has contracted with The Davey Tree Expert Company for the last several years which brings a pair of very tall bucket trucks enabling them to wrap the approximately 3500 LED lights around the tree, in the day-long project.
When the big moment arrived Ms. Tooker invited children, parents and grandparents (above, center) from the crowd to help with the countdown.
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As always, Staples High School’s legendary Ophenians provided the entertainment and began the event by performing several holiday favorites.
The Staples Orphenians gather for a Photo Op before they kicked off the night’s festivities.
The acclaimed forty-member strong a cappella group this year was led by Staples High School’s new choral director, Lauren Pine. They opened with Deck The Halls, followed by Joy Shall Be Yours In The Morning, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, closing with everyone’s favorite, Jingle Bells.
Photos And Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
About The Staples Orphenians:
Founded by Dr. George Weigle in 1958, the Orphenians have been the premiere vocal ensemble in Westport for more than six decades. Over those many years, the Orphenians have performed across the globe; including nearly every country in Europe, the United State's West Coast, Australia and most recently Hawaii (summer of 2023). Under the direction of Lauren Pine, this year's ensemble consists of 40 auditioned students ranging from 9th to 12th grade. Known for their many holiday performances throughout the town of Westport, they have become an integral part of the local community during the holiday season and year round. In fact, after this performance, the group went home to change into their formal wear to join the Dartmouth Brovertones, led by Sam Laskin, Staples 2020 graduate and a President of the Staples Players in a special holiday concert at Saugatuck Congregational Church.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, nicely decorated with her Christmas lights necklace was joined by Selectwoman Candace Savin (L), second selectwoman Andrea Moore, and former First Selectman Jim Marpe who had hosted this cherished event for years.
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The glowing lighted tree delighted the children and was a perfect backdrop for family photos.
After the twinkling tree lights were glowing against the night sky, the Westport Museum For History And Culture across the street invited the audience to their ornament making event (see article below) and for hot chocolate to warm up their guests.
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Westport Museum's Festive Kickoff: Hot Cocoa, Ornament Making, and Community Spirit
Above, Kami Naraghi Director of Marketing & Development and Nicole Carpenter Director of Program & Collections welcomed families to the museum after the Town Hall Christmas Tree lighting for the festivities. Parents and grandparents helped children prepare new ornaments to be hung from the family Christmas tree.
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The Westport Museum for History & Culture recently ushered in the holiday season with a heartwarming event that brought the community together in a spirit of joy and creativity. Following the town's dazzling tree lighting ceremony, the museum welcomed locals to join in the festive merriment with a delightful combination of hot cocoa and ornament-making.
As the aroma of cocoa filled the air and cheerful carols echoed through the newly renovated barn, attendees of all ages gathered to craft one-of-a-kind ornaments, each infused with the magic of the season. The event not only offered a space for creative expression but also served as a heartening reminder of the community's shared traditions.
What makes this celebration even more special is that it goes beyond spreading holiday cheer. The Westport Museum for History & Culture operates as an independent nonprofit, relying on the support of the community to fund its award-winning exhibits and educational programs. Events like the hot cocoa and ornament-making soirée play a crucial role in sustaining the museum's mission.
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Above: The museum is beautifully decked out for the holiday season and has a fine selection of ornaments, greeting and postcards and many other unique and creative gift offerings.
By participating in events like these, community members not only partake in the festive celebrations but also actively contribute to the preservation and promotion of their local history. It's a symbiotic relationship where the spirit of the holidays merges seamlessly with the museum's dedication to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Westport's heritage.
Moreover, attendees had the opportunity to explore the holiday shop, brimming with unique gifts perfect for the season. Museum members, who play a vital role in sustaining the institution, enjoyed exclusive discounts, making their contributions even more impactful.
Funds raised from this event contribute to maintaining the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing the rich history and culture of Westport. Whether it's captivating exhibits, educational initiatives, or engaging programs, the museum's efforts are driven by the collective support of the community.The $5 entry fee for the event covered not only the cost of materials for ornament. As an independent funded Institution events like these help support their programs.
Pam Waesche, 76, Died; former Housing Authority steward, Avid Gardener, Beloved Mother
Pamela Vuillemenot Waesche passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 1, 2023. Obituaries generally provide a timeline of the individual’s life and accomplishments, but Pam’s emotional contributions of love and kindness are much more indicative of the life she led.
Pam and her husband of 53 years, John, shared a love that transcended all life’s struggles and hardships. She was smart, loving, empathetic, and together, she and John raised three daughters they could not be prouder of. Her children and their families are the legacy she leaves behind.
Pam was born September 30, 1947, the daughter of Robert and Leontine Vuillemenot. She attended Oradell public schools in New Jersey where she met John at a 6th grade square dance and is where he first fell in love with her. She graduated from Skidmore College in 1969 with a BA in American Studies. Pam held professional positions at the Guggenheim Museum, Time Life, and The Library of Congress, but her greatest achievement and focus was always on the care and support of her family and others. In Westport, CT, where she and John raised their family, she worked with Au Pair in America and the Westport Housing Authority helping those in need find a home, spent her summer mornings tending and harvesting vegetables for local soup kitchens as a member of the Greens Farms Garden Club, and cared for any animal in distress.
She is survived by her husband, John Waesche, of Westport, CT, her daughters, sons-in laws and nine beloved grandchildren: Wendy, David, Kate, Lucy and Matthew Lavallee of Southport, CT; Dana, Jamey, Jackson, Toby, and Kiley Gifford of Hillsborough, CA; and Erin, George, John, Charlie, and Lily DiGuido of Fairfield, CT. And, a multitude of cherished friends who all provided constant camaraderie, love, and support. They will all miss her presence, laughter, and guidance in their lives. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation to a charity of your choice be made in her name.
A Look At Bankside House: Westport's Premier Riverside Luxury Residences
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Bankside house, on the west shore of the Saugatuck River overlooking downtown Westport is the newest upscale residential offering from award winning Westport developer David Waldman. Many Westporters are familiar with the work of his company David Adam Realty which was the developer of another premier project, Bedford Square, the beautiful residential and commercial development which has transformed Church Street into a "go-to" location for many folks in town and those visiting from the area and beyond.
Nestled along the Saugatuck River, Bankside House is a collection of twelve refined, private homes designed by critically acclaimed architecture firm Roger Ferris + Partners headquartered in Westport and with offices in NYC and Bridgehampton, NY. The project is being developed in partnership with Urbane New Haven which describes itself as "an effervescent pile of creative talent. Simply put, we are a team of builders."
The 45,000 s/f masterpiece uses negative space to provide each of the 12 luxury residences with 4 walls of floor to ceiling glass allowing light to filter through every inch of the units. Comprised of 10 two bedroom, 3 bath units and two, 3-bedroom 4 bath units, all with views of the Saugatuck river. The building’s exterior is designed to be low maintenance in order to keep future capital expenses low for the unit owners. It uses a sustainable corn husk infused siding called Resysta as well as ACM panels. Each unit also comes with ample outdoor spaces in the form of large patio’s, roof decks for the penthouses and balconies at each corner of each unit.
Substantial expense was spent providing quiet living inside the units since they sit in an urban environment. The creative design and use of negative space meant that no unit shared a wall with its adjacent units and the only connection between units comes in the floors and ceilings, all of which were acoustically designed to mitigate sound. Double Insulated windows as well as double insulated exterior walls added to the soundproofing qualities.
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No expense was spared in constructing this development from the infrastructure to the finishes. Each unit has a Level 5 finish on all walls and ceilings, engineered white oak floors bring warmth into the modern designed units and heated marble floors in the primary bathrooms provide warmth on a cold day.
David Waldman proudly describe the history and process of creating Bankside House as well as his other Westport projects:
Bankside House and the Bankside at National Hall office building began in 2013 with the purchase of the old Save the Children office building. For me, it was a full circle purchase since in 1982, my late father owned a portion of the property which he eventually sold to Save the Children. My father also built the three-building office complex at 57-61 Wilton Road, a portion of which is home to my company, David Adam Realty.
The project had many iterations in its quest for town approvals, a process that unfortunately spanned 6 years, as well as having a new development partner, Urbane New Haven, when my first partner decided he did not want to proceed in 2019.
Waldman told WestportLocal, “I am proud to have Bankside House as part of my development resume in Westport. I pride myself on providing beautifully designed properties to the town I have lived in since I was 1. Never have I created a building using cheap materials. My firm has won 7 preservation awards as well.”
Waldman’s contribution to Westport’s downtown are highly visible and always top-notch projects.
Bedford Square is one of the highlights of the David Adam Realty portfolio which includes properties totaling over 800,000 square feet - from historic downtown street retail, modern office complexes, upscale lifestyle centers to mixed-use developments. In fact, you cannot walk around downtown Westport without passing some of DAR's properties such as the Spotted Horse and Urban Outfitters on Church Lane and Post Road East. The building occupied by Mrs. Londons, also on Church Lane, is a bakery and cafe and has three apartments as well. Sconset Square with it's curated collection of home and boutique retailers was developed with another noted Westport real estate developer, Roger Leiffer of Leiffer properties.
David Adam Realty also manages properties such as the Gap on Main St. and the former Westport Bank & Trust Building a historically significant "flat-iron" building, a Westport landmark currently home to Patagonia, which was painstakingly renovated by Waldman's firm to preserve as much of the character of the original property as possible.
It was only because of COVID that Westport’s residential market changed creating a more favorable environment to sell such a luxury product. We retained Roger Ferris and Partners to design a one-of-a-kind landmark building anchoring the west bank of the Saugatuck river and complementing the now completed, Roger Ferris designed office building. Roger was also the architect for the redesign of National Hall and their adjacent buildings.
It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas In Saugatuck
As has happened every holiday season for more than two decades, the Cribari Memorial Bridge becomes a tunnel of Christmas lights which has delight both children and adults entering or leaving Saugatuck. This cherished holiday tradition is the work of Al DiGuido and Al’s Angels, who along with A.J. Jenna & Sons strung the festive Christmas lights and keep them glowing year after year.
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The Festive Holiday Look Continues At Rizzuto’s Restaurant
The popular Saugatuck eatery continues to offer outdoor dining in their “igloos” The COVID crises inspired Bill Rizzuto to create a safe place to dine by constructing clear "Igloos" in the parking lot of his restaurant and they are still a big hit with guests long after the pandemic. Each igloo can seat up to 8 people who can control the temperature by setting the two electric heaters to their comfort level up to about 90º. Two windows allow for fresh air to enter creating the opportunity for the perfect temperature regardless of the weather outside.
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Great Day At Compo Beach For Dogs, and People Too!
The recent milder temperature days, as they always do, bright together people and the four-legged friends at Compo Beach. There was swimming, ball chasing, canine meet & greets and much running and jumping and playing. For the human visitors there was a spectacular sunset to enjoy as the strolled the water’s edge.
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Fisherman looking for a catch and Canada geese passing by.
SPIN! SPIN! SPIN! Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular Ushers In Thanksgiving Holiday
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The beloved event marked it’s 30th appearance this year better than ever. Thousands of people from all over Fairfield and Westchester counties lined the streets of downtown Stamford to marvel at 15 giant, 30' high balloons, listened to marching bands and enjoyed a variety of performing artists.
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The parade is acknowledged to be one of the largest of it's kind in country. There were, as always several excellent marching bands, various entertainers including talented dance performers from area dance schools, the high energy clowns and of course The Grinch and Whoville and closing the parade were Santa and Mrs. Claus.
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Westport was well represented by Westport volunteer EMS including Nancy Surace and crew chief Brian Crane who patrolled the parade route on bicycle, and even rendered aid to one youngster with a minor issue.
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Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Golfin’ With The Geese At Longshore
Sunday’s beautiful weather brought many golfers to Longshore’s Golf Course. They had to maneuver their way through a couple of large flocks of geese which have gotten larger and more pervasive on the course. One golfer seemed a little amused as we captured the scene, perhaps feeling as though she had a gallery to applaud her sinking her next putt. While the geese didn’t do much to make the links more inviting, the beautiful splashes of color that remain made for a stunning backdrop indeed.
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It does seem as though the golfers are intruding upon the activities of the geese rather than the other way around. We did not see them interfere with play however.