A Night of Recognition at Staples High School
On a recent evening, Staples High School gathered its community to celebrate a milestone: the 25th edition of its Scholar-Athlete dinner, an event that shines a spotlight on students who balance rigorous academics with athletic commitment, honoring 40 seniors for their dual excellence.
Coaches across the varsity spectrum nominated standout students, and the resulting lists span the fall, winter and spring seasons, featuring names such as Sofia Gomez, Harrison Sydor, Sarah Bogdan, Oliver Vynerib, Emma Asiel, Katelynn Mitchell, Connor Brill, Riley Sklar and Aidan Lapatine, each representing the school’s broad athletic talent.
The ceremony also brought financial accolades, with Taylor Block awarded the $10,000 Laddie Lawrence Scholarship and Gabe Duque receiving both the $10,000 Coleman Brothers honor and a $2,000 Loeffler Scholarship; Athletic Director VJ Sarullo took the opportunity to recognize Bill Mitchell for his pivotal role in establishing the dinner a quarter‑century ago.
On the diamond, the Staples baseball team secured a 13‑2 victory over Norwalk in a state tournament game, advancing to a semifinal against Fairfield Ludlowe, while the players gave back by partnering with the Westport Winners program, a Little League initiative that supports youngsters with disabilities.
Civic Engagement and Community Service
Earlier in the week, the Westport League of Women Voters hosted an informative session on the town’s electoral process, guiding participants through voter preparation, recounting recent election results and outlining volunteer opportunities for civic engagement.
A separate incident on Juniper Road saw over 250 customers experience a brief power outage around 9:30 p.m., caused by downed tree limbs; utility crews restored service in the early hours, underscoring the community’s resilience.
Cultural Highlights Across Westport
Author Ann Patchett’s latest novel *Whistler* dropped a subtle reference to Westport, while Westport Pride announced its annual Pride celebration slated for June 14, inviting residents to join the festivities.
The Levitt Pavilion added to the summer soundtrack with a special ’80s night featuring Rubix Kube, and the Museum of Contemporary ArtConnecticut wrapped up its “Art, Jazz + The Blues” exhibition with a lively performance by Endea Owens + The Cookout, closing a season of interdisciplinary art.