Tonight (Friday, 6:30 p.m), a candlelight “solidarity vigil” is planned, by Saugatuck Congregational Church.
Everyone — all towns, all religions — is invited to join, on the front stops. Bring candles, if possible.
The vigil will last half an hour. The church will be open, for attendees who wish to place candles in the windows.
Saugatuck Congregational Church (Photo/Jonathan Prager)
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The Flowerfall — the beloved Post Road East shop that for years has provided Westporters with beautiful floral arrangements for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, and many other occasions (plus countless boutonnieres and wrist corsages for proms) — has closed.
Stacy Bass sends along this announcement, posted on social media: “Cyrus & Julie have retired. Thank you for your patronage, and for choosing us. It has been a pleasure. The shop is closed.”
A dozen years ago, “06880” gave a shout-out to Cyrus. In the Comments section, Kim Crowther Manning described her first encounter with him:
“What a wonderful, kind, generous and talented man Cyrus is! I will never go to any other florist ever again…. He is a true artist.
“He was hard at work, surrounded by bits of stems, leaves and heads of flowers, scissors, hot glue and wire. He told me at first that he wouldn’t have the time to create a corsage for me, but then had his son (I think it’s his son?) show me an extra one he had made that was in a box in the refrigerated room behind is workstation which was stacked with probably 30 other boxes of corsages and boutonnières waiting for pick-up. Even that room was like a museum full of his beautiful work.
“I joked that if I bought this corsage it would be the most expensive corsage ever, considering that I had already spent $30 on another one elsewhere. With that Cyrus said “oh, I can’t let you do that” and took $5 off his price.
“I was ready to buy it as is and leave him to his work, but he took it out of the box and began walking around the shop looking for flowers he could add to match my son’s prom date’s dress. He brought the corsage and the other flowers he chose back to his workstation and began to recreate the corsage, turning what was already a work of art into a masterpiece!
“While he worked we chatted about his shop and his clients. It was very easy to see his passion for his work. He told me he hadn’t slept the night before because he was worrying about how he would get everything done – he puts so much care into each piece he creates that it takes time and he gets overwhelmed sometimes.
“But he wasn’t complaining. He said, ‘this is how I know things are good – when I can’t sleep I know I’m doing well.'”
Speaking yet again of the weather: This igloo on Tamarac Road caught several “06880” readers’ eyes:
(Photo/Tom Cook)
At first glance, it looks like a clever, creative use of time and energy.
But we also wonder about its adherence to town regulations.
Is it a legal ADU, or some other type of structure? Does it have the required building permits? Is it within the proper setback? Was a wetlands study conducted? Has the fire marshal checked it for exits? Is it ADA-compliant? Might it be considered a blight property?
So many questions … so few answers …
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Speaking (still!) of the weather: With daytime temperatures far below freezing, last Sunday’s snow ain’t going anywhere, anytime soon.
(Nor will they. Today’s high is predicted to be 20. Tonight’s low will be … are you ready? … 1 degree.)
Readers continue to sent photo of their (least) favorite piles. This one’s at Saugatuck Elementary School:
“06880” has been snowed under, by residents writing about the aftermath of Sunday’s weather.
Longtime Westport resident Jamie Walsh says:
Driving down Main Street this morning, free of parked cars and people, I could not believe the condition of sidewalks, crosswalks, and parking spaces downtown and elsewhere throughout town.
Many pedestrian areas remain uncleared or inadequately treated, creating hazardous conditions for residents, visitors, seniors, and anyone with mobility challenges.
Slippery crosswalks and snow-covered curb cuts force pedestrians into the street, while icy parking spaces increase the risk of falls the moment someone exits their vehicle.
Beyond the obvious safety risks, this represents a significant liability issue. When commonly used public walkways are not properly maintained, injuries become far more likely — and with them, potential claims against both property owners and the Town.
A single preventable fall can result in serious injury, costly medical bills, and legal exposure that far outweighs the effort required to clear these areas promptly.
Westport prides itself on being a walkable, welcoming downtown. That reputation depends on basic winter maintenance being treated as a priority, not an afterthought.
Timely snow removal and proper ice mitigation are not just matters of convenience — they are essential public safety responsibilities. Addressing these conditions promptly protects pedestrians, supports local businesses, and reduces unnecessary risk for everyone.
(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To help support this hyper-local blog, please click here. Thank you!)
Four days after Sunday’s snowfall, a massive pile remains downtown.
(Photo/Jay Petrow)
Two narrow — and difficult-to-see-past — lanes feed into Main Street from Post Road East, from the west and east.
It’s one of several hazards posed by plowed banks.
Another especially treacherous one: Compo Road North, at the Evergreen Avenue hill.
Be careful out there!
The good news: A nor’easter that forecasters were watching for this weekend seems to have disssipated.
The bad news: It will be 5 degrees again tonight. Run a little stream of water to keep pipes from freezing!
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The Westport Fire Department battled a house fire on Weathervane Hill. off Wilton Road, last night.
When firefighters arrived around 11 p.m., they saw heavy smoke. All occupants had safely left the house.
The Norwalk, Fairfield and Wilton departments assisted. Emergency Medical Service provided medical support; Westport Poliee and firefighters directed traffic, while the Department of Public Works helped mitigate icy conditions.
The last unit left at 4 a.m. The fire marshal’s office is investigating the cause.
Firefighters at Weathervane Hill. (Photo/Ryan Blake)
The next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading is “The Goldsmith.”
Based on a family’s true stories of their gold jewelry passing across borders, cultures and generations, it’s set for February 9 (7 p.m). The play — written and performed by Broadway actor Sharone Sayegh — won Theatre Aspen’s 2025 Solo Flight Festival.
VersoFest ’26 has announced plenty of attractions: Ani DiFranco, Wyclef Jean, and much more.
Now we know the closer, at the Westport Library on March 28 (7:30 p.m.). Musician/writer/playwright/poet/visual artist/alt-rock legend David J, of Bauhaus and Love & Rockets) fame’s special storytellers event is the final event this year.
He’ll read selections from his new poetry book Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer, accompanied by original music. The reading will be followed by an interview featuring author Douglas Rushkoff (“one of the world’s 10 most influential intellectuals,” says MIT), and concludes with a short set of acoustic songs.
Every Thursday this winter, the Westport Farmers’ Market offers nutritious food.
Next Thursday (February 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center), there’s another way to nourish your body and mind.
“A Day of Care & Connection on Thursday” features Kiin Sauna (a wood-fired experience), Dharma Massage (chair massages), Whole Health Thermography (educational talk) and Abbey Chase Yoga (bowl healing).
Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between January 21 and 27.
A 36-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following a report that 2 Brooks Brothers employees were processing fraudulent merchandise returns. He is alleged to have profited over $20,000. He was unable to post $50,000 bond.
A 64-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with larceny and possession of a shoplifting device, following an investigation into a December incident. Though the complainant wished only to have the stolen goods returned, merchandise from other downtown businesses were located.
A 45-year-old Stratford woman was charged with disorderly conduct, assault and strangulation, following an investigation into an August disturbance at a Westport home that she initiated. The victim alleged being punched and choked.
A 63-year-old Westport man was charged with evading responsibility and operating under the influence, after a vehicle with heavy damage was blocking part of Post Road West. The damage was caused by striking a mailbox, sign, shrubbery and a utility pole on Kings Highway North properties.
A 20-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with violation of a protective order, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and defective headlamp, following a motor vehicle stop near Maple Avenue for that headlamp. It was learned that a passenger was protected by a court order, stipulating no contact between the 2 parties. She was released on a $25,000 bond.
A 20-yera-old Norwalk woman was charged with violation of a protective order.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey stop sign: 7 citations
Texting while driving: 6
Failure to renew registration: 6
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Failure to remove snow and ice from a vehicle roof: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Following too closely: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Speeding: 1
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Unsafe passing: 1
Parking a motor vehicle on a sidewalk: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
Not a parking spot! (Also not Westport, but you get the idea.)
And finally … on this date in 1861, Kansas became the 34th state in the US.
(January seems like it’s been 392 days already. Fortunately, “06880” is here for you, 24/7/365. If you appreciate our work, please support us by clicking here. Thank you!)
So far, the state Department of Transportation has approved plans from 11 towns and cities. Three more are under consideration.
Where does Westport stand?
“06880” asked 1st Selectman Kevin Christie. He says: “Currently, traffic enforcement in Westport is handled through traditional methods by sworn police officers. The town does not operate any automated traffic enforcement cameras, including speed cameras, red light cameras, or school bus stop-arm cameras.
“The town is aware of evolving technology and ongoing state-level discussions regarding automated traffic enforcement systems. Westport has also established a Safety Action Plan, which is a prerequisite for any potential future consideration.
“At this time, Westport is not in the process of acquiring or installing automated traffic enforcement cameras. Any future consideration would require adoption of a local ordinance and a formal policy review.”
On Kings Highway North, Marie Gross’ neighbors’ plow guy deposited a huge pile on the sidewalk next to the end of her driveway.
It’s so high, she can’t see oncoming cars.
She sent this photo …
(Photo/Marie Gross)
… and says, “you can barely see a panel van coming down the road.” She urges everyone — homeowners and plow companies alike — to be mindful when clearing snow.
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Speaking of driving, Arthur Hayes writes: “After a 3-year construction project, the left-turn arrows at 3 of the 4 approaches to the Post Road East/Roseville Road/Hillspoint Road intersection still are not functioning.
“We have the same left-turn disasters as before the project — just from newly constructed left-turn lanes. The only arrow that works is on the Post Road westbound approach.
“The project was presented by the state Department of Transporttation in July of 2019. After 6 1/2 years, my enthusiasm is waning.”
Left-turn arrows noted by Arthur Hayes still do not work.
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Budget season is beginning.
The Board of Finance meets Monday (February 2, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 307/309; livestreamed at www.westportct.gov).
They’ll discuss proposed budgets from the Departments of Human Services, Parks & Recreation (including Wakeman Town Farm), and Public Works (including the sewer fund).
Budget deliberations are set Monday for several departments.
MoCA\CT welcomes a wide range of artists — all abilities, and all ages.
How do they do it? Here are 2 examples.
A new Advanced Art Studio for Adults with Disabilities (Saturdays, 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.; suggested donation $25) encourages attendees to explore painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media through guided projects and open-ended creativity.
Meanwhile, the open call deadline for high school artists is February 13.
“The Sound of US: Youth Culture Now” show asks young people to choose 1 song from 2020 to today, and create an original artwork that explores its influence on youth culture. Fashion, language, activism, daily life — all are appropriate themes.
The former CNN journalist has joined the Scripps News Network, as special events anchor.
The Westport resident calls it “a dream gig for me at this moment in my life. I get to work with a team of talented, wonderful journalists, and interview super compelling people, and stay out of the daily stomach-churning stress of this never-ceasing news cycle.”
Her first interview, last Friday, was with former CNN colleague and longtime friend Don Lemon.
“You might have heard a thing or two about Don last week, when Trump and the Department of Justice were desperately, and futilely, trying to charge him with a crime for covering an ICE protest inside a St. Paul church,” Alisyn says.
“They failed. But Don doesn’t believe their attempts are over.”
She’s got a Substack, too. Yesterday, she wrote about what went on — behind the scenes — as she and Lemon grappled with “the duality of grief.” Click here to read more, and subscribe.
Alisyn Camerota and Don Lemon in light — and serious — moments together.
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In the 4 months since “06880” wrote about theStaples Dance team, they’ve grown to over 25 students, in all 4 grades . This winter, Wrecker basketball fans are enjoying their creative, high-energy halftime shows.
This Sunday (February 1, Saugatuck Elementary School, 10:45 a.m.) they host their first-ever showcase fundraiser, featuring great performances by members. Proceeds support the team as they begin competitions, include the state championship.
Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to Rohan Sareen.
Last week, the 11th grader headed to New York, to work with the Children’s Rescue Fund at the Lighthouse Shelter in Long Island City.
Using a pair of 3D printers, he taught 30 children how to prepare files, and safely run prints on their own. For most, it was their first exposure to 3D printing and hands-on engineering.
But this is just the beginning. The printers will be used in a new after-school program, giving many more children the chance to learn design, problem-solving, and real-world tech skills.
Rohan says, “the goal of the program is to spark curiosity and show how technology can turn ideas into something tangible. Seeing the children get excited about creating their own projects was incredibly rewarding.”
Rohan Sareen, with 3D printer and Lighthouse Shelter youngsters.
With last year’s denial by the Planning & Zoning Commission of the controversial Hamlet project, plans for Saugatuck redevelopment have been shelved.
But what about the Norwalk Islands?
There had been vague mentions of excursions from a Hamlet marina, to a couple of nearby properties.
According to “Nancy on Norwalk,” 2 are now back on the market, just a few years after selling. The “rare move (is) tied to stalled development plans and renewed interest in the limited number of islands that remain in private hands along the city’s coastline.”
Calf Pasture Island — close to the Saugatuck River and Norwalk Harbor — has an A-frame structure. Betts Island includes a 1925 single-family home. The asking price is $3.5 million for each.
What may be Westport’s last large open residential lot has been sold.
Two boldface names are involved in the transaction.
Marc Lasry — the billionaire hedge fund manager and former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner, who lives on Beachside Avenue — bought the 12.3-acre 109 Morningside Drive South property for $7 million.
The seller — Wildflower Haven LLC — is run by Shonda Rhimes. She too lives elsewhere in Westport. Rhimes bought it in 2022, for $5.925 million.
For many years before that, it was owned by the Kowalsky family.
Lasry tells “06880” that he has 5 children, and may build homes there for 2 or 3 of them. The land will not be subdivided for a dozen homes, as many Westporters feared when it was on the market.
But nothing will happen soon.
“There is absolutely no rush,” Lasry says.
109 Morningside Drive South is the vast open space at the center of this aerial view. It is bordered by Clapboard Hill Road and Turkey Hill Road South.
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Walking around town is treacherous, after the weekend’s snow.
This is the scene on Post Road East, near Turkey Hill Road North and Harvest Commons:
Meanwhile, the Westport Downtown Association has this message for residents:
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Tired of being cooped up indoors?
Friends of Sherwood Island State Park is hosting a “Love Yourself, Get Outdoors” event on (appropriately) Valentine’s Day (February 14, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.)
Linda Gottlieb of FitTraining will lead the session. Organizers say: “Practice green exercise. Experience ‘forest bathing.’ Learn to use the ‘nature pyramid’ to guide your exercise.”
It’s free, and everyone is welcome. Dress in layers; it’s windy at the bach.
If recent weather has you thinking of warm sun: Head to VFW Post 399 on Thursday.
This week’s “Jazz at the Post” features The Caribbean Jazz Connection. Its leader — drummer Jim Royle — has been crossing genres of jazz and Caribbean Latin styles for years.
The band includes his former student and steel pan player Bryan Garbe. The Fairfield native is now an internationally acclaimed percussionist; bassist John Mobilio, and pianist Dave Childs.
And finally … happy birthday, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!
In just 35 years, he wrote over 800 pieces, in virtually every classical genre: symphonic, concertante, chamber, opera and choral repertoires. He is considered one of the greatest composers in the history of Western music.
(“06880” is nearly 17 years old — half of what Mozart was when he died. We’re not comparing ourselves to him. But we do work pretty hard. Please click here to support our efforts. Danke schön!)
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