Category Archives: Looking back

Staples Players Rewind: “Fiddler On The Roof”

Posted on September 15, 2026 | 2 comments

In the fall of 2015, Staples Players staged another classic musical: “Fiddler on the Roof.”

It’s a challenging show: heavy themes, complex music, foreign cultures and accents.

As they always do, directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s high school troupes rose to the occasion.

And surpassed it.

Media instructor Jim Honeycutt taped the production. As he does each week now, he edited the 2 casts into 1 highlight reel. Click here or below to enjoy this great “tradition.”

Many cast members have gone on to great things, on and off the stage. Among them:

Jacob Leaf (Tevye) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Julia Mandelbaum (Tzeitel) graduated from Rider University. She performed professionally in “Evita,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more.

Caroline Didelot (Hodel) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.

Zoe Samuels (Yente, the Matchmaker) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.

Jimmy Ray Stagg (Lazar Wolf, the butcher)  is a sketch writer and performer associated with The Second City. He also performs with the independent comedy group Penny For Your Intrusive Thoughts.

Wellington Baumann (Mordcha, the innkeeper) is a litigation associate at Fried Frank in New York City. focusing on white collar criminal defense, commercial disputes and real estate litigation. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and the Washington & Lee University School of Law.

Keanan Pucci (Appa) graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, contributing to virtual production pipelines and visual development for projects like Netflix’s “Escape from Hat.” His film credits include “An Inconsistent Story in Stealing. Click here for a showcase of his interactive and 3D work.

Christian Melhuish (Appa) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.

Mackenzie Lavoie (Shandel, Motel’s mother) earned a bachelor of science in arts administration, combined arts and a minor in film and media studies at Wagner College. She is a communications and PR professional specializing in strategic storytelling, media relations and brand positioning.

Mikayla Czizik (Etil) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School.  She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.

Avery Mendillo (Samara) is a New York-based actor and singer, with roots in musical theatre and a growing career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Remy Laifer (Motel Kamzoil, Yosef) s a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”

Nick Ribolla (Perchick, the student)

Daniel Pauker (Mendel, the Rabbi’s son, Mandel)  is a technical animator. He has a passion for 3D software and systems.

Chad Celini (Arlin) is an American actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”

Colin McKechnie (Soloman) s part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”

Nick Rossi (Shmuel) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Jake Watzman (Benyamin) is an American voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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The Shores: New Name, Image For Old “Sanitarium”

Posted on September 15, 2026 | 1 comment

At the turn of the 20th century, private sanitariums were becoming alternatives to large psychiatric hospitals.

Sanitariums were located in rural areas. It was believed that quiet surroundings, fresh air, farming, crafts and separation from the stresses of everyday life could help people with mental illness (known then as “nervous disease”).

Westport had 2 sanitariums. One was on the Post Road at North Compo Road. The buildings were razed in the 1970s; today we know it as Winslow Park.

The other was on Long Lots Road. Dr. David McFarland opened it in 1898. Four years later, it was named Hall-Brooke.

Dr. McFarland’s sanitarium.

By mid-century, it had transitioned to a psychiatric hospital model. Treatments included electroshock therapy and restraints.

In 1964, Elisabeth Solomon and irving Cooper bought the hospital and 27 acres for $907,000. It became a non-profit. After a rough period in which Solomon lost control of the organization, then fought to regain it, Hall-Brooke expanded into community and outpatient behavioral health services.

Hall-Brooke Hospital

An old building fronting Long Lots was demolished. A new 60,000-square foot facility opened in the rear of the property.

In 2008, St. Vincent’s Medical Center took over. The name was changed to St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health — a mouthful.

St. Vincent’s is now owned by Hartford HealthCare. For a year, their marketing team searched for a name that would reflect its high quality of care.

Which is why Hall-Brooke (as old-timers still call it) and St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health (as no one called it) is now “The Shores Mental Health” — or even more simply, “The Shores.”

The name “conveys healing, stability, and its location near the beach,” says Eleanor Cronley, HHC’s Fairfield region director.

The Shores name covers Hartford HealthCare’s “behavioral footprint” in Fairfield County: the 76-bed campus on Long Lots Road, and outpatient clinics in Norwalk and Bridgeport.

The Shores entrance.

Changes at The Shores go beyond the name. A new Welcome Center — open 6 days a week, including evenings — allows people to talk with clinicians. If admission is appropriate, it happens quickly. If not, they may be referred to one of the outpatient facilities.

“The goal is always to find the least restrictive environment,” Cronley says.

The grounds.

She notes the need for a speedy process. A New Jersey doctor called the Welcome Center, because there were no beds in his patient’s area. Three hours later, the teenager had one here.

That patient was admitted to the 16-bed children’s and adolescent unit. (“Parents like bypassing the emergency department,” Cronley notes.)

Two units — each with 24 beds — are reserved for acute adult cases. The other 12 beds are part of the mood and anxiety program, which the Welcome Center often feeds into.

Dr. Tobias Wasser, chair of psychiatry and behavioral health.

Cronley has lived in Wilton for 18 years. Until a few years ago however, she — like many area residents — did not know St. Vincent’s existed.

“And I work in the behavioral health field!” she says.

The Shores hopes to have more of a presence through its campus, a couple of miles from shore.

A ribbon cutting is set for October 14. “It will be a momentous day for behavioral health in Fairfield County,” Cronley promises.

(“06880” regularly reports on health and wellness, in all its forms. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Welcoming space, at The Shores.

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Posted in Local business, Looking back

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“Then & Now”: #30

Posted on September 14, 2026 | 5 comments

Week #30 of our series brings 4 more examples of a variety of architectural styles that have met the wrecking ball — and the style that supplants them.

“Then & Now” curator and pre-demolition archivist Dave Matlow provides these images. They’re part of a project he worked on from 2004 to 2020.

A reminder: This is a community blog. Our neighbors live here. Some built those new structures; others are the second (or beyond) owners.

If you comment, please be kind. Taste is subjective. Wherever we live, everyone has loves their home.

Wedgewood Road, September 2012 …

… and September 2026.

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Valley Road, March 2010 …

… and September 2026.

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Wakenor Road, June 2020 …

… and September 2026.

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Wake Robin Road, February 2014 …

… and September 2026.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

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Friday Flashback #520

Posted on September 11, 2026 | 3 comments

Today — on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001 — we remember and honor 4 men with Westport ties.

All were in their 30s, working at the World Trade Center. All lost their lives in the terrorist attack.

All were bright, energetic, and well-loved. All had already accomplished a great deal, and looked forward to doing more. All had much to live for.

All left behind families and friends, who will miss and mourn them forever.

Keith Coleman and Scott Coleman were brothers — 34 and 31 years old, respectively.

They had gone through Westport schools, and worked together on the 104th floor in the World Trade Center’s north tower.

Keith, a noted Staples High School wrestler, graduated from Bucknell University. After working in London for 6 years he became a senior vice president and partner at Cantor Fitzgerald, responsible for its equities derivatives department. He brought his brother into the firm.

Keith married his college sweetheart. They lived in New Jersey, with their son and 4-month-old daughter. (Click here for a stirring speech by Keith’s son Vaughn, on the 20th anniversary of 9/11.)

Scott attended Staples, the Lawrenceville School and Colgate University (where he played soccer, and was one of the leading scorers in its history), then earned an MBA from Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business. In 2003, Colgate dedicated a new gateway to their soccer field in memory of Scott and other 9/11 victims

Scott lived in Weston, and was an equities broker. He was engaged to be married, when the hijackers struck.

Every year, the Westport Soccer Association awards scholarships in Scott and Keith’s names, through the Coleman Brothers Foundation.

Scott (left) and Keith Coleman

Jonathan Uman, 33, was a managing director of corporate development for eSpeed Cantor Fitzgerald, working on the 105th floor of the north tower. He lived in Westport, with his wife Julie and 2 young children. A donation from a foundation created in his name after his death went to the Westport Fire Department.

Colleagues remember Jonathan’s intellect, curiosity, wit and fairness. His many interests included Shakespeare, music and art. (Click here for a remembrance of Jonathan.)

Jonathan Uman

Bradley Vadas, 37, was a senior vice president with Keefe Bruyette & Woods, considered a top trader. He was working on the 89th floor of the south tower.

Bradley grew up in Weston, and had homes in Westport, New York and Wyoming. He graduated from Boston College with a degree in economics. He was passionate about chess, softball at Compo Beach, boating and fishing. He was about to become engaged. (Click here for Bradley’s obituary.)

Bradley Vadas

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Blue Skies, A Bicycle, And A World Changed Forever

Posted on September 11, 2026 | 3 comments

No matter what else goes on today — September 11, 2026 — the shadow of September 11, 2001 hangs over us all. 

That horrible day changed our lives forever. We know it now — and we sensed it then.

Here’s what I wrote 3 days later — September 14, 2001 — in my Westport News “Woog’s World” column.

It was a bit past noon on Tuesday, the Tuesday that will change all of our lives forever.

Fifty miles from Westport smoke billowed from what, just hours before, was the World Trade Center.

A number of Westporters once worked there. The twin towers were never particularly beautiful, but in their own way they were majestic. Whether driving past them on the New Jersey Turnpike, flying near them coming in to the airport, or taking out-of-town friends or relatives to the top, we took a certain amount of pride in them.

We’re Westporters, but in a way we’re also New Yorkers. The World Trade Center symbolized that, though we live in suburban Connecticut, we all feel in some way connected to the most exciting, glamorous, powerful city in the world.

And now that same city was under attack. From the largest McMansion to the most modest Westport home, men and women frantically tried to make contact with spouses, relatives and friends who work in downtown Manhattan.

The iconic 9/11 photo was taken by Westport’s Spencer Platt. He lived near the Twin Towers on that awful morning.

At Staples High School, teenagers who grew up thinking the worst thing that can happen is wearing the wrong shirt or shoes, were engaged in a similar quest.

Many of their fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers work in New York. Many others knew loved ones who were flying that morning, or in Washington, or somewhere else that might possibly become the next city under siege.

Meanwhile, on Whitney Street, a pretty young woman dressed in her best late-summer clothes rode a bicycle down the road.

It was, after all, a beautiful day. Along the East Coast there was not a cloud n the sky — not, that is, unless you count the clouds filled with flames, dust and debris erupting from the collapse of the World Trade Center.

It was a perfect day to ride a bicycle, unless of course you were terrified you had lost a loved one, were glued to a television set wherever you could find one, or were so overwhelmed by grief and rage and fright and confusion because you had no idea what was next for America that riding a bicycle was absolutely the furthest thing from your mind.

On the other hand, perhaps riding a bicycle was exactly the right reaction. Perhaps doing something so innocent, so routine, so life-affirming, was just was some of us should have been doing.

If tragedy teaches us anything, it is that human beings react to stress in a variety of ways. Who is to say that riding a bicycle is not the perfect way to tell Osama bin Laden, or whoever turns out to be responsible for these dastardly deeds, that America’s spirit will not be broken?

But I could not have ridden a bicycle down the road on Tuesday. I sat, transfixed, devouring the television coverage of events that, in their own way, may turn out to be as transforming for this world as Pearl Harbor was nearly 60 years earlier.

I could not bear to watch what I was seeing, but neither could I tear myself away. Each time I saw the gaping holes in those two towers, every time I saw those enormous symbols of strength and power and (even in these economically shaky times) American prosperity crumble in upon themselves like a silly disaster movie, the scene was more surreal than the previous time.

Life will be equally surreal for all of us for a long time to come.

I wondered, as I watched the video shots of the jet planes slam into the World Trade Center over and over and over again, what must have been going through each passenger’s mind.

Like many Westporters, I fly often. Like most I grumble about the delays and crowded planes, but like them too I feel a secret, unspoken thrill every time the sky is clear, the air is blue and the scenery terrific. Tuesday was that kind of day.

For the rest of my life, I suspect, flying will never be the same. And the increased security we will face at every airport, on each plane, is only part of what I fear.

So much remains to be sorted out. We will hear, in the days to come, of Westporters who have lost family members and friends in the World Trade Center. We will hear too of those who have lost their jobs when their companies collapsed, either directly or indirectly, as a result of the terrorism.

Sherwood Island State Park is the site of Connecticut’s official 9/11 Memorial. (Photo/David Squires)

We will drive along the New Jersey Turnpike, or stand on a particular street in Manhattan, perhaps even take out-of-town guests to gaze at the landmark we will come to call “the place the twin towers used to be.”

Our casual grocery store and soccer sideline conversations will be filled with stories: who was where when the terror first hit, and what happened in the hours after.

Our newspapers and airwaves will be clogged with experts trying to explain — though that will never be possible — what it all means for us, in the short term and long term, as individuals and a society.

Our world has already changed, in ways that will take years, if not decades, to understand. We are nowhere close to comprehending the meaning of all this.

The world will go on, of course. Our planet will continue to spin; men and women will continue to commute to New York, and pretty women in Westport will continue to ride bicycles down Whitney Street.

At the same time, sadly, none of that will ever be the same.

Among the nearly 3,000 victims of 9/11, 161 were from Connecticut.

Two lived in Westport: Jonathan Uman and Bradley Vadas. Brothers Keith and Scott Coleman grew up here. All worked at the World Trade Center.

They were sons, fathers and brothers. They had much of their lives still ahead of them.

Today, we remember all those killed that day. Twenty-five years later, we still grieve.

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9/11: Keith Hagel’s Story

Posted on September 10, 2026 | Leave a comment

Keith Hagel is a 1963 graduate of Staples High School. 

He lived and worked throughout Fairfield County, before retiring as a newspaper editor and moving to Maine. An earlier version of this piece appeared in the Bangor Daily News in 2023.

The morning sky on September 11, 2001 near New York City was spectacularly clear and beautiful, so different from the normal clouds and smog that even jaded, sleepy commuters like me on the train from suburban Connecticut to NYC took notice.

We were near the New York state line when the news broke. I remember one man saying, “Someone has declared war on the United States.” Another, on a cell, started yelling at his mother to turn off “The Price is Right” and watch the news.” Takes all kinds.

The train made an unscheduled stop, and a frantic young man boarded. His girlfriend worked in one of the World Trade Center buildings that had been hit, and of course he could not reach her. I hope I never again have to see such anguish on a person’s face.

I thought about a woman I had chatted with on a subway the day before. I think she had said she was on her way to start a new job at the WTC. As she said goodbye getting off, her hip brushed mine, perhaps accidentally. I noticed, but felt I’d probably never see her again. Now, I wondered if anyone else would, either.

As we neared the 125th Street station, we could see the Twin Towers afire across the river. An hour later, I would have been in the bowels of one of the other WTC buildings, connecting to my editing job at Dow Jones Newswires in Jersey City.

The unthinkable happened, on September 11, 2001.

125th Street was as far as train riders were going on September 11. If the World Trade Center had been targeted, Grand Central Station, in midtown Manhattan, certainly also might be.

To my surprise, I eventually got a dial tone on a pay phone (25 years later, extinct in New York) and called my newsroom office. No answer; the 16-floor building had been evacuated. Not that I could have have gotten there. All subway and bus service in Manhattan had been shut down.

My supervisor did eventually make it in. He had been walking to work from near the WTC when he saw the first plane hit. Any sane and/or terrified person would have run like hell in the opposite direction. He did, but a good newsperson to his core, he first called in the story.

I took a turned-around train back to Fairfield County. Little talk, no tickets collected. As I got off an hour later, grim-faced police were on the platform, probably watching for injured or traumatized people needing medical help. The next day, we would learn of the cars that sat empty in railroad parking lots, their drivers never to return.

(Photo copyright Ted Horowitz)

I drove my clunker car to my wife’s house. We recently had separated but, as parents, remained connected. Her first words to me were, “I never thought I’d be so glad to see that piece of (junk) here again.”

Her phone rang, and I answered. My college daughter in Michigan. She had been hurt by her parents’ split and was quite angry with me, with some justification.

A brief pause, then, “What are you doing here?”

I told her she should have listened to the message I had left her from the train, using a cell I had borrowed from a stranger.

There was silence, then some noises.

She was sobbing. She had thought I was dead.

Keith Hagel

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Tyler Ugolyn: A 9/11 Legacy

Posted on September 9, 2026 | 1 comment

In August of 2001, life was good for Tyler Ugolyn.

The former Ridgefield High School basketball star (and McDonald’s All-American) graduated from Columbia University that May. He had just turned 23. And he started working for Fred Alger.

Tyler Ugolyn at his Columbia University gradaation.

He was there at his desk one month later — September 11 — when a hijacker flew a plane into the World Trade Center’s North Tower.

Tyler was one of 35 members of his investment firm — and 2,942 others — who died that horrific morning, 25 years ago this Friday.

Trevor was Tyler Ugolyn’s older brother — his charismatic, selfless and only brother.

Tyler Ugolyn

Trevor moved to Westport 13 years ago. He and his wife Caroline are raising 2 sons here.

Trevor has seldom spoken publicly about his connection with 9/11. But as his boys grow up, Trevor wants to make sure they, and the many other Americans born after that world-changing day hear the stories behind the statistics.

Every man and woman lost that morning left behind loved ones. Tyler’s death inspired Trevor to “live my life as he did — to be the best human being I can be, and try to fulfill his legacy.”

Which is why today (Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.), Trevor will speak at Connecticut’s official ceremony. It will be held, as always, at Sherwood Island State Park. The state’s 9/11 Living Memorial is there, on a peninsula where on a clear day the Manhattan skyline can be viewed across Long Island Sound.

The memorial features stones engraved with the names of the 161 people with ties to Connecticut who were killed in the attacks.

The 9/11 memorial, at Sherwood island State Park.

This will not be Trevor’s first time at the ceremony. In the past though, he has stood off to the side.

Now, he will be a “story teller.” He will talk about Trevor’s impact on him.

He will recall the innocent men and women lost, the sacrifices of first responders, the thousands of volunteers in search and rescue, and the brave men and women of our armed forces who risked their lives in years to come.

He will talk too about the good things that came out of 9/11: “bravery, sacrifice, a feeling of community.”

And the Tyler Ugolyn Foundation. Created by Trevor and his parents, the non-profit supports youth basketball through court refurbishment, financial support for character-building educational programs, and skills clinics for children in urban areas.

All nationwide courts are named “Tyler’s Court.” A plaque installed at each says “I just love playing the game,” a quote from his high school days.

Tyler left quite a legacy. At Columbia, he enlisted players from the men’s and women’s teams to run clinics for Harlem youths. He served as a soup kitchen volunteer too.

At Ridgefield High he was a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Safe Rides, Future Business Leaders of America, and Big Brothes/Big Sisters.

Every year, Ridgefield’s basketball program selects a special player — one with great character and spirit, a humble leader and true team athlete — to wear Tyler’s #34 jersey.

Tyler’s jersey, in the Ridgefield High School gym.

The Foundation’s website is filled with tributes.

Speaking at today’s ceremony will not be easy for Trevor. He’s a private person, but he has so much to say about his brother.

“I’ve written probably 4 books,” Trevor says. “And now I have to condense it down into 4 minutes.

After a quarter century, the grief and loss Trevor feels is still palpable.

He will never forget his brother. But — first by working with the Tyler Ugolyn Foundation, now adding his conversations with his sons and his remarks today — Trevor ensures that many others who never knew Tyler will never forget him either.

(A few days after 9/11, Jeff Pearlman wrote a very moving story about Tyler for Sports Illustrated; click here to read. In 2009, he revisited that piece; click here to read. For more on Tyler Ugolyn, click here.)

Tyler Ugolyn

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25 Years After 9/11: Turning Loss Into Legacy

Posted on September 8, 2026 | 1 comment

As the 25th anniversary of her husband Adam J. Lewis’ death in the Twin Towers nears, Patty Lewis could spend her time looking backward.

Instead, she focuses on the future.

And the future of Adam J. Lewis Academy is bright indeed.

Its preschool opened with 12 children in 2013, in a revitalized Bridgeport property. The school was the brainchild and passion project of Patty and Westporter Julie Mombello. Both were longtime friends, and educators at Greens Farms Academy.

Patty Lewis (left) and Julie Mombello

Each child it served would honor the memory of Patty’s husband, Adam. In his too-short life, the Bronx native never forgot how his own world had been transformed by an educational opportunity at the Dalton School. 

Over the next 5 years, the preschool grew to its capacity of 18 children. It was a  model for what early childhood education can be: engaging students in an innovative, enriched, nurturing environment, and bridging an achievement gap that already existed at such a young age.

The first class at Adam J. Lewis Preschool 

In 2018 the school relocated to an expanded downtown Bridgeport campus, and welcomed its first kindergarten class.

Every year after, Adam J. Lewis Academy added one grade. This fall, it reached its goal. It is now a full pre-k through 8th grade independent school, with nearly 200 students.

It is a shining success story, in a city that has not had enough of them. And — with the help of many Westporters — Patty and Julie’s school continues to change lives, one child at a time, every day of the year.

It’s a testament too that — after one of the most horrific days in American history — something good and wonderful can grow and flourish.

This year’s inaugural 8th grade includes 12 students. Four have been at the school since pre-kindergarten.

Three of this year’s 8th graders, hard at work.

Julie and Patty are excited for all 12. Part of the school year will be dedicated to placing them in appropriate high schools: Hopkins, Greens Farms Academy, Lauralton Hall, Notre Dame, Kolbe Cathedral and the like.

AJLA’s dedicated staff helps prepare students for those entrance exams. A mandatory summer program for 8th graders — part of the camp the school runs for all students — includes essay writing, interviewing skills and financial aid forms

Adam J. Lewis Academy has no theater, gym or athletic field. But they’ve partnered with organizations like Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, SquashBridge and Music Theater of Connecticut, to offer the extracurriculars that round out students’ experiences.

Adam J. Lewis Academy students and staff.

Though their growth plan — pre-K to grade 8 — is complete, Patty and Julie are not resting. Their work is not done.

They’re already looking ahead. Their goal, they say, is to continue changing young children’s lives “for the next 25, 50 and 100 years.”

A capital campaign — “Secure the Future” — has begun. The goal is $25 million.

Adam J. Lewis Academy is completely self-funded. The $5 million annual budget includes no public money.

No family pays full tuition, which covers only 8% of the total cost. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods — the investment firm where Adam worked on the 89th floor in the South Tower — has been a longtime generous donor.

Adam J. Lewis Academy 7th graders.

This year’s fundraising gala is set for September 19 (6 p.m., The Point at Norwalk Cove). As they do every year, students and teachers will show their walk, and talk about AJLA and their lives.

Those conversations are always insightful and inspiring. This year, the first class of 8th graders will make an extra special impression on guests. (Click here for tickets, and more information.)

On Sunday, Adam J. Lewis was in the national spotlight, thanks to CBS News. Caroline Lewis — one of Adam and Patty’s 4 children, who works there — pitched the story to producers.

She did not tell them her connection, until after they agreed it was a piece worth telling. (Click here to see.)

“The story of 9/11 is not done,” Caroline says in the piece. “A new chapter is being written.”

Adam J. Lewis pre-K students.

No child at the academy named for her father knew him. But his legacy is strong and alive.

Every fall, students participate in the national 9/11 Giving Day. Whether singing “America the Beautiful” at a memorial service, or — this year — packing meals for local shelters, the boys and girls at Adam J. Lewis Academy give back as much as they get.

On the 25th anniversary of a day that changed America forever, Patty Lewis says, “We’ve changed the narrative from horror and tragedy, to a sense of coming together. This is a reminder of who we as a country can be.”

(To learn more about Adam J. Lewis Academy, click here.)

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“Then & Now”: #29

Posted on September 7, 2026 | 15 comments

Some of Westport’s greatest concentrations of mid-20th century houses can be found in the eastern end of town, near the Southport line.

“Then & Now” curator and pre-demolition archivist Dave Matlow returned there recently, to document 4 more examples of new construction replacing teardowns. The images are part of a project he worked on from 2004 to 2020.

A reminder: This is a community blog. Our neighbors live here. Some built those new structures; others are the second (or beyond) owners.

If you comment, please be kind. Taste is subjective. Wherever we live, everyone has loves their home.

One home on Woodhill Road, February 2019 …

… and August 2026.

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A second home on Woodhill Road, October 2011 …

,,, and August 2026.

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Elizabeth Drive, September 2007 …

… and September 2026.

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Westfair Drive, October 2015 …

… and Westfair Drive, August 2026. (All photos/Dave Matlow)

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

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Roundup: A Day In The Life, A Push From Paulie, A Garbage Dump …

Posted on September 5, 2026 | 1 comment

A reminder: Tomorrow (Sunday) is our special “Day in the Life of Westport” day.

Residents of all ages are invited to take up to 3 photos of any kind, illustrating life in Westport. They can be taken anywhere in town, at any time from midnight to 11:59 p.m.

Suggestions include neighborhoods, work, traditions, celebrations, acts of service, family life, recreation, arts, faith — whatever happens on a Westport Sunday.

Submitted photos will become part of an online community archive and digital image library (and featured on “06880”).

Organizers also plan to create a large photographic mosaic incorporating every submission, with selected images potentially featured in a public exhibition and/or commemorative book.

Photos must be taken tomorrow only, then submitted by midnight to dayinthelife2026.artcall.org. The submission website will accept photographs only on the day of the event.

For more information and submission details, click here or email Westportphoto2026@gmail.com.

“A Day in the Life of Westport” is a collaboration between the Artists Collective of Westport, the League of Women Voters Westport, the David T. Langrock Foundation, and “06880.”

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Homes with Hope is an avid supporter of “A Day in the Life of Westport.” And to show how many people are involved, they will pose for a photo at 2 p.m. tomorrow, outside the Gillespie Center men’s shelter.

They’ve invited members of the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary Clubs. All volunteers — those who prepare and serve meals, those who donate to the food pantry, etc. — are welcome to join in the photo. Town officials will be there too.

It’s a great way to demonstrate the town’s support for Homes with Hope.

And to be part of the historic “Day in the Life of Westport” too.

Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place will be filled with Homes with Hope staffers and volunteers tomorrow.

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Last month, Paulie Veneto began pushing an airline beverage cart in Boston.

The retiree — who was working on September 11, 2001 — is honoring the memory of his colleagues who were killed that day by pushing the cart 210 miles, to Ground Zero in New York.

This is the 5th tribute walk for “Paulie’s Push,” to raise awareness of their heroism in the face of unimaginable danger.

Once again yesterday, the Westport Fire Department offered a welcome pit stop for lunch and hospitality, at their Post Road East headquarters.

Yesterday, his route took him through Westport. He stopped briefly at fire headquarters on the Post Road.

After a brief ceremony, and a meeting with firefighters, he was back on his trek.

At Eno Lane on Saugatuck Avenue, resident Mike Sharpe brought neighbors together to show support and appreciation — and have the honor of helping push the cart.

Carolyn King reports, “It has become a meaningful tradition, and a beautiful reminder of the importance of coming together.”

Paulie will reach in New York by Friday.

Paulie Veneto (white shirt), his cart, and Westport firefighters and officials.

Paulie Veneto and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie push carts down Riverside Avenue.

With Paulie, on Eno Lane.

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Well, this stinks!

Thursday’s “06880” story about the 40th anniversary of the Westport Library’s “new” location next to Jesup Green — on land that was once the town dump — mentioned a tea party that etiquette expert Amy Vanderbilt once hosted atop the trash.

Right event. Wrong dump.

Hers was at the dump across the Saugatuck River. With the Taylor parking lot dump closed by court order (neighbors complained — that was a thing 70 years ago too), and nowhere to put the quickly growing town’s garbage, the Westport Woman’s Club agreed to allow limited dumping on landfill next to their Imperial Avenue clubhouse, where a new parking lot was being built.

In response to negative public opinion, sportscaster and Westport resident Win Elliot organized an October 1957 event. Vanderbilt presided; there was a grand piano, and a sterling silver tea set.

Elliot said, “At a well-run dump you can hold a tea or a formal ball. There is absolutely no smell.”

A year later, that dump was filled to the height specified in the agreement. The town moved its dump to a site off Saugatuck Avenue.

The Imperial Avenue parking lot has had many uses since: for commuters, as the site of the Remarkable Theater, the Westport Farmers’ Market, and of course the Westport Woman’s Club’s signature event, the Yankee Doodle Fair.

A hat tip to longtime WWC official Dorothy Curran, for setting the record straight.

And not dumping on us for the error.

Imperial Avenue parking lot — and former dump — built on landfill adjacent to the Westport Woman’s Club (white building, center right).

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Yesterday’s Westport Sunrise Rotary meeting went to the dogs.

Brute — a Belgian Malinois, and member of the Westport Police Department K-9 corps — was the star of the morning meeting.

He graciously let his handler, Corporal James Loomer, do the talking.

Loomer joined the WPD in 2010. With Brute wagging his tail encouragingly, Loomer discussed his background in K-9 operations, patrol, and narcotics and  explosives detection.

Corporal James Loomer, and Brute. (Photo/Katie Augustyn)

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Michal Amzallag has spent her career in banking law, financial crimes and commercial negotiation.

Then she had kids. And she realized no one was teaching them about money. “Understanding money at 8 instead of 28 is the biggest head start anyone gets, and almost nobody does,” she says.

So she is building the courses she kept looking for.

“Compound Kids” is 8 weeks of hands-on money skills, for youngsters age 8 to 13.

They use real money — part of the registration fee — and real activities. There are no worksheets or lectures; just hands-on activities.

There will be 2 courses this winter, at the Westport Library, divided by age (8-10, and 11-13). Click here for more information.

Michal Amzallag

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Speaking of money: We normally would not mention an upcoming meeting of the Pension Investment Committee and 401(k) and Defined Contribution Plan Investment Committee.

They do important work, sure. But it’s not the headline-grabbing, dog park-, athletic field lights- and Saugatuck redevelopment-type work of, say, the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Still, one agenda item from their next session caught our eye: “Aristotle Discussion.”

We got very excited. Would the Pension Investment Committee and 401(k) and the Defined Contribution Committee actually sit around discussing the Greek philosopher’s thoughts on formal logic and syllogisms?

Nope.

Turns out Aristotle is a family of mutual funds.

We learn something new every day.

Or, as a famous Greek philosopher once said, “All men by nature desire to know.”

Aristotle, the mutual funds guy.

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Speaking of meetings: The Blight Prevention Board meets September 10 (7 p.m.; Zoom).

They’ll consider 3 properties:

  • 20 Center Street
  • 20 Meeker Road
  • 7 Hockanum Road.

20 Center Street

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Mihali made a triumphant return to the Levitt Pavilion last night. Their 11th show at the outdoor theater may have been their best yet.

Tonight (Saturday, 7 p.m.), Hollywood Nights brings their acclaimed Bob Seger Experience to Westport. Click here for tickets.

Summer vibes continue this coming week with 3 free shows: ever-popular DNR (the almost all-doctor rock band; Thursday, September 10, 7:30 p.m.), in their annual tribute to EMS and first responders; the equally popular Sweet Remains (Saturday, September 12, 7:30 p.m.) and the Brian López Electric Trio (Sunday, September 13, 7 p.m.).

Click here for more information.

Mihali entertains …

… and a young fan is mesmerized. (Photos copyright DinkishESH Fotografix)

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It’s a sight we never grow tired of: an eagle soaring above the water.

Gabriela Hayes spotted it — then snapped this beautifully composed shot, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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And finally … as Westport gets ready to celebrate “A Day in the Life” tomorrow (story above):

(If you read the news today — or any day — on “06880”: Oh boy! Here’s your chance to support this hyper-local blog. Please click here. And thank you!)

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