Rock Royalty Keith Richards Recognized By Governor Lamont At Westport Library Award Ceremony
Longtime Weston, Connecticut Resident Awarded Inaugural Governor’s Award of Excellence in the Library’s Trefz Forum.
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Westport Library Press Release, Wednesday, March 5th:
The Westport Library was the site of a wonderful convergence of politics, rock and roll, and community service, with Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont honoring legendary Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards as the inaugural recipient of the Governor’s Award of Excellence. Richards, a longtime Connecticut resident, was recognized for his contributions in enriching Connecticut’s cultural and civic life.
The award, presented to Richards on stage by Connecticut First Lady Ann Lamont, consisted of a custom-designed medallion — crafted by State Trooper Danny Carvalho and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) — along with a ribbon designed and sewn by Enfield-based fashion designer Justin Haynes.
“I’d like to say thank you to you all, and thank you to the state of Connecticut,” Richards said in accepting the award. “You kind of get lost for words with something like this around your neck. I’ve been here for 40 years, and it’s been a great place for me. I brought the kids up here. When the kids were young, I said, I have to get the kids out of New York City before they don’t get any fresh air at all. So, we moved up here, and ever since, we’ve had a great life. … I’m incredibly happy about everything, especially things like this, because you don’t get them every day.”
The Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence is a new honor celebrating residents who epitomize the state’s core values: creativity, resourcefulness, passion, dynamism, and generosity. Additionally, Richards received a governor’s proclamation offering the “Key to the State.”
In his comments on state, Richards said, “This is a great building, a wonderful library, which even I didn’t know the full extent of, adding “As Bill was saying earlier, without our books, without knowing things, without knowing their special meaning — this isn’t movies, this is not someone drawing you images. This is a book, and you have the movie in your head, and it’s very important that we keep our books unburnt”, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd. The reference to book burning which has taken place at various points in history was in his mind, and he ended his remarks by thanking everyone again and adding, “just watch out for matches”. Richards thanked the Governor for “his persistence” in moving forward with giving this award for the rock star’s many achievements.
An excerpt from the event can be found on the Library’s YouTube channel: Governor's Award of Excellence: Keith Richards
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In addition to receiving the “Key To The State”, Richards expressed real delight at receiving a freshly printed Westport Library Card which was presented by Library Executive Director Bill Harmer. Richards, a Connecticut resident since 1985, was honored for his deep commitment to supporting the local community. Through his generosity and dedication to organizations like SPHERE, which enhances the lives of adults with disabilities, and The Prospector Theater, which provides meaningful employment through the magic of film, Richards has used his influence to uplift and empower others. Richards was clear in his praise of the Westport Library, saying, “ This is a great building, a wonderful library, even I didn’t know the full extent of”.
Richards has also been an advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state, further exemplifying his dedication to making a lasting impact.
“I’ve been inspired by the Rolling Stones for more than 50 years, I hope you have as well,” Governor Lamont said during his address to the assembled crowd. “Keith Richards is an amazing member of our community. We’re so proud that he’s here and I’m so proud to have the opportunity to give him this award of excellence.”
Said Westport Library Executive Director Bill Harmer: “As we celebrate Keith today, we are reminded that libraries are not just places to borrow books; they are agencies for equality, opportunity, creativity, and empowerment. At The Westport Library, we are proud to be an institution that provides free access to knowledge, culture, and creativity for all, just as Keith described. His recognition today is a celebration not only of his music but of the values we hold dear: creativity, authenticity, and the belief that art and culture have the power to change lives.”
When Richards entered the Trefz Forum he was instantly surrounded by fans looking for photos and selfies, who are also top officials in Connecticut state government. Above are library Executive Director Bill Harmer, CT Attorney General William Tong, Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Erick Russell, state Treasurer and Governor Lamont.
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When the program began, Keith listened to opening remarks by Bill Harmer, seated with the Governor and state officials, and then was introduced by Lamont.
Approximately 200 invited guests were in attendance, including Psychedelic Furs frontman Richard Butler, Alice Cooper Group bassist Dennis Dunaway, Cramps drummer and Norton Records founder Miriam Linna, SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman, renowned saxophonist Crispin Cioe (Rolling Stones, James Brown), and Paul Butterfield Blues Band keyboardist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin. Other notable names for the afternoon were Today show host Craig Melvin, award-winning sports journalist and podcaster Lindsay Czarniak, renowned music producer and audio engineer Rob Fraboni, and acclaimed TV journalist and rock memoirist Alisyn Camerota.
Richards is regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in the history of music. His career with the Rolling Stones dates back over seven decades, to the early 1960s, and his songwriting partnership with Stones frontman Mick Jagger is heralded as one of the most successful and prolific in rock history. Among his signature songs are “Jumpin' Jack Flash,” “Satisfaction,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Start Me Up,” “Happy,” “Miss You,” “Brown Sugar,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Wild Horses,” “It's Only Rock n' Roll (But I Like it),” and “As Tears Go By,” to name a few.
Above, CT Attorney General William Tong checks in at the desk. Next, State Treasurer Erick Russell and department Chief Of Staff Kevin Alvarez, then Russell with Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas. At right, Thomas with Y’s Men of Westport and Weston president Bruce Borner.
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Above, Bruce Borner with former First Selectman Jim Marpe with wife Mary Ellen. Next, Westport RTM members Sal Liccione and David Rosanwaks, State Rep for Westport Jonathan Steinberg and a library staff member. Center: Dan Woog and Miggs Burroughs were in attendance along with one of a large number of members of the media. CT Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton, and at right, Westport PD Chief of Police Foti Koskinas with wife Christina.
Guests spoke together after the event concluded, commenting on what a special day it was to be a part of. The TV media cameras were abundant, as well as web and digital media photographers. Media interviews of some of the notable guests were conducted after the presentation ceremony, including Christine Ohlman, nicknamed "The Beehive Queen" for her distinctive platinum beehive hairstyle. Christine has been a vocalist for the Saturday Night Live Band for over 30 years. She has performed at the library several times and will be appearing at the library's VersoFest 2025 event in April: VersoFest Welcomes Christine Ohlman. Richard Butler, lead singer of Psychedelic Furs was also in attendance and was interviewed as well.
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Staples Girls Gymnastics Record-Breaking Year Nears An End
Above: Five Staples gymnasts who qualified to compete in the CT State Open are (l to r) Hannah Bitsky (bars, balance beam, vault), Maite Di Pietro (balance beam and floor), Mikeala Snow (bars and vault), Sarah Arango (bars) and Laura Guster (all-around) and team Captain Sofia Alarcon-Frias. At left, in back is Head Coach Kelsey Martin and Coach Amanda Lewis.
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The 2024 - 2025 Staples Girls Gymnastics Team had a record breaking year, setting a school record of 144.8 on January 29, 2025 when they competed against Westhill and New Canaan at their home gym at the Westport Weston YMCA.
Laura Guster also scored three school records. She now holds the school record for all-around (38.25), bars (9.75) and beam (9.7). Laura also was crowned the FCIAC All-Around Champion with an impressive score of 38.05.
The Staples Gymnastics team concluded their regular season on on February 12, then went on to take second place in the FCIAC tournament with an outstanding score of 140.95. The Staples gymnastics team was seeded second in the L division State tournament and third in the entire state. Unfortunately, due to injury and other circumstances three of their top gymnasts could not participate in the state tournament. Without three of the top gymnasts, Staples finished a respectable 4th place.
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Above, Head Coach Kelsey Martin, who has been leading this exceptional program for 15 years, confers with her gymnasts. All photos here are from the CT State Opens competition held on Saturday, March 1st at New Milford High School.
The State Opens competition includes qualifying gymnasts from all across the state, with the top 40 individuals in the State on every event and the top 20 all-arounders.
Balance beam competitors for the team are Hannah Bitsky and Maite Di Pietro who have also qualified for the New England Championship on beam. The New England Championships include competitors from the New England states, depending upon who qualifies, and will be held on March 8th at Jonathan Law High School, 20 Lansdale Avenue, Milford, CT.
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The Staples gymnastics team was seeded second in the L division State tournament and third in the entire state. Unfortunately, due to injury and other circumstances three of their top gymnasts could not participate in the state tournament. Without three of the top gymnasts, Staples finished a respectable 4th place.
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The girls take a photo after the competition concludes. From left are Sarah Arango (bars), Maite Di Pietro (beam and floor), Mikeala Snow (bars and vault) and Hannah Bitsky (bars, beam, vault).
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Westport Fashion & Style Helps Homes With Hope's Mission To Help Those In Need
Homes With Hope President & CEO Helen McAlinden giving opening remarks on the activities of her organization before the models stepped onto the runway.
Emcees Dave Briggs and Alisyn Camerota returned to host the 5th annual Fashionably Westport event and the Westport Library on Friday night.
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Fashionably Westport held at the Westport Library was an outstanding event that brought together the entire local community. The Westport Downtown Association created a remarkable 5th annual Fashionably Westport fashion show. This event once again supported Homes with Hope, a Westport-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Fairfield County.
Westport town officials Danielle Dobin, Board of Finance (above, 2nd from left) and RTM Andrew Colabella volunteered once again this year to show their style.
There were plenty of stylish looks for the younger generation like these from TheTwoOhThree.com
Helen McAlinden, President and CEO of Homes with Hope, shared that last year the organization provided vital services to over 1,350 individuals through its comprehensive support programs, aiding the most vulnerable members of Fairfield County.
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Above, McAlinden speaking about the efforts of the organization to help those in need. Helen expressed her gratitude, stating, "On behalf of Homes with Hope’s Board of Directors, staff, and the people we serve, we extend our heartfelt thanks the Westport Downtown Association. The support from this event makes a significant and positive impact on our mission.
Briggs and Camerota kept the energy level up as they described the fashions and spoke about the Westport merchants who generously provided the clothes, accessories, and did hair and make-up to help make the models look their best.
There were many mother-daughter models and even three generations as in the top row two photos from the left.
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Music was provided by the local band Moss and a guitarist on the stage as guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres and posed for photos at the Fashionably Westport backdrop.
Westport merchants served up a fine selection of attire for those who want to look their best on the courts.
McAlinden addressed the audience saying, “The proceeds will enable our dedicated staff to continue offering vital services to those who turn to us for assistance. We are deeply appreciative of everyone who attended and kindly ask that you continue to support the local shops that showcased their fantastic fashion and the beauty salons.” Helen added, “Lastly, please feel free to reach out to me on my mobile phone at 475.225.5292 if you would like to learn more about Homes with Hope or visit. We welcome volunteers! To learn more about our work check out our website, Homes With Hope”
Many of the guests were dressed to the nines and would have done very well walking the runway.
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Everyone went home with amazing gift bags packed with generous goodies and discount vouchers to use to shop local. Their contributions to the event were truly outstanding. Homes With Hope is profoundly grateful to all who made this evening possible.
Nearly one hundred of Westport’s merchants and restaurants generously provided a variety of goods and services to support Fashionably Westport and Homes With Hope.
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The traditional fashion show finale brings all the models out on the runway at once for the audience to take one last look at the fabulous fashions.
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The “Y’s Men Classical Music Society Presents A Performance By Staples Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra On March 4th At Saugatuck Congregational Church
Members of the acclaimed Staples Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra along with Co Directors Carrie Mascaro and Jeri Brima (far left) They will perform a free concert on Tuesday, March 4 in the Saugatuck Congregational Church Sanctuary, beginning at 2:45 pm. (contributed photo).
About The Y’s Men of Westport-Weston Classical Music Society: Since 2016, the Y’s Men Classical Music Society offers educational and inspirational programs of classical music from the 17th century through contemporary times. It is one of more than 30 diversified activities offered to the group's 500 plus membership of Westport and Weston retired and semi-retired men. The Society meets monthly from September through May on the first Tuesday of the month. Members and their guests are welcome.
About The Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra: The Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, a distinguished part of the Staples Music department, first formed over 50 years ago. This select ensemble is composed of committed and skilled string students who undergo an audition process each spring. Typically, around 45 students from grades 9-12 audition, showcasing their abilities through a chosen solo, scales, arpeggios, and sight reading. This year, 30 members have been chosen to participate in the Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, alongside a smaller Amati Cello Ensemble comprising four members. Prior to the pandemic, the program was robust enough to sustain two separate chamber orchestras, reflecting its long-standing tradition and continued appeal among young musicians.
Students from our music program have gone on to attend prestigious institutions such as Berklee College of Music, along with notable alumni who have studied at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Many have advanced their careers by performing with esteemed ensembles like the Cleveland Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Additionally, their chamber orchestras participate in regular performances at off-campus venues, including the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA). Beyond these organized events, students also perform in smaller groups throughout the community. Recently, middle school and high school chamber orchestras collaborated for a festival concert, allowing older students to mentor younger musicians, fostering a continued interest in music as they transition into high school.
The Chamber Orchestra at Staples High School benefits from the collaborative expertise of both Carrie Mascaro and Jeri Brima, who co-teach the ensemble. With over three decades of experience in the Westport Public Schools, Mascaro brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in music education, alongside her active role as a conductor for the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras and her commitment to chamber music. In contrast, Brima's background includes a significant nine years in the Chicagoland area, where she honed her skills before joining Staples six years ago. Her focus has recently shifted to scholarly pursuits as she works towards her doctoral degree in music education. Together, they create a rich learning environment for the students, blending performance practice with academic rigor, while fostering a love for orchestral and chamber music.
Students rehearse for two hours each week from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, demonstrating their commitment to excellence in music. In addition to these rehearsals, they are required to participate in a 30-minute sectional each week, balancing this with their other commitments. Their dedication is evident not only in their practice and performance skills but also in their organizational efforts, as they maintain a snack schedule for the rehearsals. This level of commitment and planning showcases the strong work ethic and camaraderie among these dedicated musicians.