Roundup: Thoreau, Yankee Doodle Fair, Politicians …

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The Yankee Doodle Fair ends its 4-day run today (Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.), at the Westport Woman’s Club and adjacent parking lot on Imperial Avenue.

Youngsters (and adults) have enjoyed the many rides, games, activities (and all the food). A raffle is set for this afternoon, with prizes including the furry friend below.

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Henry David Thoreau was a prophet of environmentalism and vegetarianism; an abolitionist, and a critic of materialism and technology — a century and a half before our time.

Westporter Andrew Blauner’s new book — “Now Comes Good Sailing” — will be published next month. It’s a compilation of original essays from 27 writers, exploring how this remarkable man influenced and inspired them.

On November 8 (7 p.m., Westport Library, in person and virtual), Blauner discusses all things Thoreau. Click here to register, and to buy his book.

Henry David Thoreau

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The Staples High School boys soccer team’s car wash was a rousing success yesterday. They blew the previous record profit out of the water.

The event drew scores of drivers — and a few politicians. The boys soccer program is scrupulously non-partisan.

1st Selectman Jim Marpe, and 2nd Selectman (and candidate for the top spot) Jen Tooker (center) stopped by …

… and so did State Representative (and 1st Selectman candidate) Jonathan Steinberg (far left) and his running mate, Board of Education chair Candice Savin (2nd from right).

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“Westport … Naturally” features all kinds of living things. We’ve highlighted hummingbirds, egrets, bears and more. Today we introduce our first snake.

This beauty was seen yesterday on Roseville Road.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … legendary farmer and environmentalist John Chapman “Johnny Appleseed” was born today, in 1774. He introduced apples to large portions of North America, as every schoolchild learns.