Tag Archives: Aquarion

Roundup: Aquarion Water Tanks, Levitt Pavilion, Just Salad …

Posted on June 1, 2024 | 9 comments

Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority continues to hear testimony about Aquarion’s construction of 2 large water tanks on North Avenue, opposite Staples High School. They replaced 1 smaller one on the same site.

Marc Lemcke has fought the water company since the tanks were first proposed in 2017. On Thursday, he testified before PURA, on behalf of Smart Water Westport and a group of neighbors.

Lemcke described his group’s investigation into Aquarion’s actions. His 4 main points:

  • The Westport tanks were not needed, and Aquarion knew it.
  • The tanks are part of a $200 million project that was not needed. and Aquarion knew it.
  • The tanks are larger than authorized.
  • Aquarion tried to conceal certain facts.

Specifically, Lemcke said, Aquarion blocked the disclosure of public records; hid payments to their Westport town lawyer’s firm, which had a conflict of interest; concealed information about contamination; knew that tank screening was not possible; engaged in illegal marketing; failed to provide “critically important” reports; violated terms of length of construction, and built the tanks without a wetland permit.

The water utility’s “questionable conduct … has critical implications for future water management, and makes the case for even greater oversight going forward,” Lemcke told PURA.

A hearing on Tuesday (June 4, 10 a.m., Zoom) will be held, covering Aquarion’s permit conditions.

Click here for the full 53-page report of Lemcke’s testimony; then click “Attached correspondence” at the bottom.

Aquarion water tanks under construction, June 2022.

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The Levitt Pavilion’s 50th season features over 50 free shows. And they started yesterday.

Tonight (Saturday) at 7:30, Boston-based Couch entertains with pop, funk, rock, R&B and soul. Click here for more information, and to reserve free tickets.

Tomorrow (Sunday, 7 p.m.), the Arun Ramamurthy Trio fuses South Indian classical Carnatic music and contemporary jazz. Click here for more information, and to reserve free tickets.

For all free shows, all available and returned tickets are distributed at the box office, first-come, first-served, beginning 2 hours before show time.

And for all free shows, audience members are free to bring in outside food and drink.

For a highlight reel of last weekend’s ticketed opening — with Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The United Nations, and Dogs in a Pile, click below.

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The start of June means summer — and summer reading.

The Westport Library has every reader, of every age, covered.

Whether it’s a book for vacation, at the beach or on your couch — or for your kids or grandchildren — read on.

The 8th annual Adult Summer Reading Challenge begins today. It runs through August 31.

The rules are the same as past challenges, this year with a fresh round of 25 categories (click here to see). You can do all or only one, or anything in between. Just have fun!

There are just 2 rules:

  1. Categories may only be fulfilled once.
  2. Each book can only be used for one category.

Once you read a book that fulfills a category, submit it via the form on the Library. Then track your progress on our leaderboard.

The leaderboard is also where you can see what everyone else is reading, and give your own recommendations. You can also join the Westport Reading Challenge Facebook Group, and talk smack — er, books — all summer long.

As for kids: Starting today, children can sign up for the Library’s Summer Reading Program. It wraps up September 2.

Youngsters can read anything. Any time. And anywhere, all summer long.

Register online and keep track of minutes read. For every 100 minutes, you can decorate a summer sun that will be displayed in the Library.

Earn a treat from Shake Shack at 500 minutes. When you reach 1,000 minutes, can choose a book to keep from the Library’s selection of titles.

For more summer fun and prizes, stop in the Children’s Library to play bingo and earn more free books.

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Speaking of the Library: Martha Hodes, professor of history at New York University, speaks about her latest book, “My Hijacking: A Personal History of Forgetting and Remembering,” on June 5.

It’s a memoir about the fallibilities of memory. In 1972 she and her 13-year-old sister were flying unaccompanied back to New York from Israel. Their plane was hijacked by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and forced to land in the Jordan desert.

Too young to understand the gravity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Martha coped by suppressing her fear. Nearly a half-century later, her memories of those 6 days and nights as a hostage were hazy and scattered. Was it the passage of so much time, or that her family couldn’t endure the full story, or had trauma made her repress the experience? A professional historian, Martha wanted to find out.

Drawing on archival research, childhood memories, and conversations with relatives, friends, and fellow hostages, she re-creates what happened to her. As the hostages forged friendships and provoked conflicts, the sisters learned about the lives and causes of their captors, pondering a deadly divide that continues today.

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Westport Police officers carried the Flame of Hope along the Post Road through town yesterday. The event — from the Norwalk line, to the Southport border — showed support for Special Olympics of Connecticut.

Amy Schneider was one of many drivers and passersby who slowed down and snapped photos, as the torch and flags went past.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Qdoba didn’t make it.

Neither, apparently, will Salsa Fresca.

The Connecticut Scoop reports that Just Salad will replace the Mexican grill “before the end of the year.”

There is already a Just Salad location in Greenwich. Another will open in Norwalk too.

Click here to learn more about Just Salad. Spoiler alert: The menu is more than just salad. (Hat tip: Neil Markman)

A guy with Just Salad.

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Mar Jennings’ marvelous Rosebrook Gardens is one of 7 selected for the Garden Conservancy’s Fairfield County Open day (June 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

It features a garden studio, wisteria-covered wisteria, classic English Folly, and 2 parterre gardens surrounded by flowers anchored by boxwoods.

In the 1920s, the property served as the entire neighborhood’s vegetable garden.

Jennings purchased a then-new home in 1996. He transformed a once-vacant lot into his brand and business.

Tickets are $5 for Garden Conservancy members, $10 for non-members. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mar Jennings’ Rosebrook Gardens.

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Westport Pride’s Jesup Green celebration is tomorrow (Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.).

LGBTQ Pride Month continues June 16, when Saugatuck Congregational Church sponsors a Family Pride picnic and party (11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.).

The event is open to all. It includes a bounce house, lawn games, face painting, hot dogs/veggie dogs, cake and more

For more information, call 203-227-1261 or email Rev. Kari Nicewander: kari@saugatuckchurch.org.

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Gail Cohen died yesterday, surrounded by her family.

Her family says, “she was passionate about her family, the theater and canasta. She battled her terrible disease valiantly and courageously for 9 months.

“Throughout her life she inspired those around her with her passion, empathy, zest for life, and devotion to the happiness of others. Gail always led with love. She was a force and advocate for those who couldn’t advocate for themselves.”

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Eric; children Hayley, Zach and Sydney, grandson Cooper, mother Mimi and siblings Richard, Beth Steinberg Michael and Robin.

A memorial service will be held tomorrow (Sunday, June 2, 1 p.m., The Community Synagogue of Westport). Shiva will be at 32 Burnham Hill tomorrow from immediately after the burial until 8 p.m., and Monday, June (1 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 9 p.m.).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Cohen Family Scholarship Fund at Cardozo Law School/Yeshiva University, or a charity of your choice.

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It’s been a while since we’ve featured a mighty oak in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

This mighty fine one towers over Nancy Axthelm’s back yard.

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

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And finally … in light of the many headlines over the past 2 days:

(Sure, it’s the weekend. But “06880” never rests. Our Roundup continues, 24/7/365. If you enjoy our ceaseless work, please click here support us. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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[OPINION] Westport: Watch Your Water Bill!

Posted on March 17, 2023 | 23 comments

Smart Water Westport was formed in 2017, during the Aquarion North Avenue water tank debate.

Since then, that group of residents has followed the state’s water activities. Last year, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority granted intervener status to Smart Water Westport in Aquarion’s rate case, allowing them to review thousands of documents and asked questions.

Smart Water Westport says:

Wednesday was an important day in Connecticut. For the first time in decades, the state’s utility regulator (PURA), rejected a requested rate hike by a utility.

Aquarion — our water company — sought a 30% rate increase over the next 3 years. In a 2-1 decision, PURA denied the request.

While this sounds like good news for customers, Westporters still face substantial increases — and still need to pay close attention. Here’s why:

1. Aquarion lost its bid for a rate hike because PURA found that it did not provide enough evidence to support the increase. This is a clear win for customers.

But those of us with yards, lawns or pools will still see an increase of up to 80%, because of a new rate structure that charges a premium for any water beyond what is deemed “essential.” The end result: Before you install a new lawn or turn on your irrigation system, think twice. At the very least, be sure to fix leaks — and plan for bigger bills.

2. Aquarion will most likely learn from this loss. We expect they will try to make a stronger case next time.

When they do that, it’s important that the town get credit for its conservation efforts, which are considerable.

It’s estimated that Westport’s water consumption will soon be down by 30% from the 2016 level, significantly more than Aquarion expected.

Unfortunately though, we won’t get credit for those savings. While we saved a great deal — mainly due to irrigation restrictions — we are seen as a wealthy town that can afford higher rates.

We need to fix that, so next time we can make the case to PURA that savings should be taken into account.

Westport’s water usage — including what’s stored in these North Avenue tanks — is down substantially, from 2016.

In fact, based on PURA’s decision, we estimate water bills in Westport are approximately twice as high as needed.

We are already paying 50% more than our neighbors in Norwalk. The difference is that Norwalk owns its water utility, while Westport is served by Aquarion, a private utility owned by Eversource.

This public/private distinction is a big part of the problem. But there are other reasons for our high rates as well.

For example, under current rules we wind up paying for Aquarion’s rate case proceedings. The cost of those proceedings is significant. This last proceeding alone would allow Norwalk water customers to cover their entire legal budget for the next 500 years (you read that correctly).

3. While water is certainly a critical resource, and we all agree that infrastructure investments are necessary, we are not sure we can trust Aquarion on these issues.

During this last go-round, for example, Aquarion basically told PURA that if they didn’t get their way, we could wind up like Flint, Michigan — a prophecy that even the regulators found “outlandish.” (PURA still approved $600 million in infrastructure investment, despite finding that Aquarion had not provided evidence for its “prudence,” as required by law).

Do we really need the new work that Aquarion is suggesting, or are they simply doing it to push more water around the state and/or make more money? We must be vigilant about these types of issues moving forward.

4. Finally, this is only the beginning: Aquarion is likely to appeal the decision.

We need to involve Westporters in the process and in a discussion about the state of water in our state, the future readiness of the system, and who will pay for it.

That’s why a group of us formed the non-profit Smart Water Westport, and are participating in the proceedings.

But we face huge hurdles, including that neither the state nor anyone else knows about the infrastructure situation because of a recognized “asymmetry of information.” (That basically means it is impossible to verify any information provided by private utilities).

But there is hope. As PURA’s chair recently noted, “If there is a message coming out of today, it is simply that PURA is prepared to hold regulated utilities accountable. And that’s what this decision does.”

Smart Water Westport encourages you to listen to the court’s deliberation on YouTube (below), where the 9-month process is summarized in a mere 20 minutes.

Please actively comment and support the decision. Even if you disagree, please consider commenting. Based on our experience, any comment is looked at and helps the state to improve the system for all of us.

If you have questions, please email smartwaterct@gmail.com. Thank you!

(Water is necessary for life. And donations are necessary for “06880” to publish. We’re a non-profit, and rely on reader support. Please click here to contribute — and thank you!)

23 Comments

Posted in Environment, Politics

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[OPINION] A Better Way For Utility Mains And Cable Wires

Posted on February 19, 2023 | 23 comments

We see them so often, they blend into the landscape: crews of all kinds, digging up the streets, and working on utility poles.

Alert “06880” reader Manuel Castedo sees them too. But he’s not sitting back, waiting in line for traffic to ease (or an overladen wire to fall on his head). He writes:

“On my street (Beachside Avenue), Southern Connecticut Gas just finished replacing the main.

“Now a month later, Aquarion is digging another new trench for replacing the water mains. This affects traffic to the point of having to close the street. It goes on for weeks.

“Then are the long, sloppy scars left behind on what would otherwise be smooth asphalt surfaces.

Beachside Avenue.

“In addition, cable company trucks everywhere constantly maintain their ever- expanding cables suspended from poles along the streets.

“They have grown in numbers over the years. Now the poles are under stress due to their weight. Companies are adding guy wires to secure and add stability to the poles.

“All this digging, repaving and continuous maintenance seems to be very wasteful. It cannot be the best way to do things. (Never mind the problem of power/cable outages when storms come, or trucks hit overhead sagging cabling.

“There has to be a better way.

Utility lines.

“The other day, I sent a proposal for a better approach (see email below ) to key individuals at Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, Department of Transportation, the Planning and Development Committee, State Emergency Management Commission, State Senator Ceci Maher, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, and State Representative Norman Needleman, his counterpart in the Transportation Committee.

“I also tried sending it to the heads of Eversource, Aquarion and Southern Connecticut Gas, but could not get their emails.

Manuel noted that Aquarion’s upcoming “disruptive and expensive digging up of the streets could be an ideal opportunity to plan intelligently for the future.

“When the trench is opened, why not just drop a couple of additional empty PVC conduits that could be readily accessed in the future when the time comes to replace, or add more, electrical or cable service runs.

“These trenches are usually 2 or 3 feet wide by 6 to 7 feet deep, which is enough room to accommodate water, electrical, telecom and gas lines with the required 12-to-24-inch separation between them.

“The addition of this PVC piping would be a relatively small investment because after a street is dug up –- for whatever reason — the large cost of excavation is already factored in.  The conduit pipes would be in place for future replacement of the existing vulnerable street pole system currently in use. It would eventually result a much more resilient system, which will save thousands when the storms come or when the posts come down on their own under the weight of the cables.

Getting ready for more Aquarion work. (All photos/Manuel Castedo)

“This could be a win-win project for everyone. The utility companies could make some additional income to include the empty conduits, the power and cable companies would have less constant maintenance required by sagging cables and leaning poles, and consumers would be less prone to outages than they are now.

“Obviously, this approach to improving the infrastructure would require a system of coordination and funding that is not in place, and would need to be carefully planned so it is efficiently and easily implemented. It is extremely wasteful and shortsighted to continue with this inefficient, wasteful, labor intensive way of doing business by utility companies in the state.

“The intelligent approach to burying cabling conduits as an integral part of any street excavation or repaving should be required by the State of Connecticut in order to improve grid resilience and reduce long term costs of having to continuously dig up the streets.”

(“06880 runs occasional “Opinion” pieces, on issues of town concern. If you’ve ever been inspired (or provoked) by one, please support our work. Click here — and thank you.)

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Posted in Environment, Local business

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Roundup: Beach Dogs, Earth Animal, Salmon Trees …

Posted on September 30, 2022 | 3 comments

Tomorrow is October 1.

Every dog owner — and probably every dog — knows what that means.

From Saturday through March 31, canines are allowed back on Compo Beach.

They’re prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways. They must be leashed in all areas, except the off-leash area (south of the pavilion, including South Beach).

And it goes without saying — though the Parks & Recreation Department says it anyway, because some dog owners don’t care about this crap — “you are required by law to pick up your dog’s feces.”

Oh happy day! Frank, Oggy, Utah and Winston (Photo/Nicola Sharian)

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Speaking of animals:

Earth Animal has donated $20,000 to build a new barn at Wakeman Town Farm. It will provide shelter, feed storage and veterinary care space.

The funds came through a 6-month Little Barn Project. A percentage of store sales — including WTF merchandise — went to the farm. Earth Animal then matched the funds.

“My sister Abbey and I fell in love with the farm and all that it does for the community, the animals, children, families and their dedicated sustainability mission,” says Merritt Goldstein, whose family owns Earth Animal.

“We asked what we could do for the farm and began supplying food for the animals. We realized that the existing barn was run down, and needed to be rebuilt.”

Wakeman Town Farm barn.

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Aquarion has requested a revenue increase of $49.9 million — a 25% increase. If approved by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, it would add about $4.25 per month to the bill of a typical residential water customer using 72,000 gallons of water annually.

Public hearings will be held next Thursday, October 6  (via Zoom; click here) and Tuesday, October 25 (via Zoom; click here). (Hat tip: Jeff Manchester)

For more information, click here and here.

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As if Westport does not have enough traffic and school bus problems:

Andrew Colabella reports that a bus broke down in this most inopportune spot prior to starting its route today:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Ribbons around trees usually mean they’re coming down soon.

Probably not so at Grace Salmon Park.

These pink ribbons are undoubtedly in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

But it might not hurt to get rid of these particular ones.

They’re trees of heaven — a very invasive species.

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Some people don’t look at food expiration dates.

Jarret Liotta does.

The native Westporter sends this photo:

(Photo/Jarret Liotta)

He writes: “This is probably my third in the last couple of months. Perhaps you can suggest a new ‘06880’ game: Readers can search Stop & Shop for their favorite expired products.”

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The Joggers Club is moving from Greens Farms train station to Compo Beach.

There are fun runs every Saturday at 8 a.m. (parking available even without a sticker). There are short (3-5 miles) and long courses (6 to 9 miles) each week.

The cost is $50 (not each time!). New Joggers Club members receive a Brooks racing shirt.

The club also introduces a new members-only track night, every Wednesday at 6:15 p.m., at the Staples High School Track.

Got kids? The Joggers Club Jr. welcomes youngsters in kindergarten through 8th grade. They work on speed, strength and how to love the sport.

The Joggers Club was founded in 2007 to help runners build friendships, form bonds,  have fun (and run).

For more information, click here, or go to Instagram (@TheJoggersClub.CT),
Facebook or Strava for weekly courses and local running chatter.

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Speaking of sports: Tennis fans would give anything to watch Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal up close and personal. When they do, it costs big buck$. And they’re surrounded by thousands of other people.

Squash aficionados can watch their heroes — Paul Coll (ranked #2 in the world), Diego Elias (#4) and Faraz Kahn (#53) — on October 6.

The site is Intensity — the tennis/squash/fitness/dance center just over the Norwalk line. (It’s also home to the Staples High School squash teams.)

The event starts at 5 p.m. with junior clinics. Adult clinics follow at 6, with the pro exhibition matches beginning at 7.

Admission includes food, drink, and photo and autograph opportunities — something else you’d never get with Federer or Nadal. Click here for tickets.

Paul Coll — the #2 squash player in the world — comes to Intensity.

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Slava Ukraini!

Last week, Westporters Anna Dubchak, Steve Taranko, Vitaly Yakubovskiy and Mark Yurkiw, plus Luba Zam from Norwalk, held the first meeting of the
Ukrainian Society of Fairfield.

The group hopes to assist Ukraine cope with the horrors of the Russian invasion.

Non-Ukrainians are welcome to help too. For more information, email: UkrainianFairfield@hotmail.com.

The Ukrainian Society of Fairfield.

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There’s always something going on at Sherwood Mill Pond.

Matt Murray spotted this great blue heron yesterday. Today, it’s our handsome “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … rapper Coolio, the rapper and Grammy winner of hits like “Gangsta’s Paradise,” died Wednesday in Los Angeles. He was 59. Click here for a full obituary.

This may be the first YouTube video I’ve ever linked to with over 1 billion views.

(“06880” is your source for all local news (and worldwide hit songs). Please click here to support this blog.

 

3 Comments

Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Politics, Sports

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Roundup: Water, Weeds, Lichen …

Posted on August 28, 2022 | 4 comments

Online registration for fall Westport Parks & Recreation Department programs begins at 9 a.m. on Wednesday (September 7).

Among the events: traditional favorites like tennis clinics, Sports Squirts, IST football, Wakeman Town Farm and Skyhawks Sports Academy, and new ones: Future Wreckers’ basketball clinics, Next Generation skateboard clinics, Overtime Athletics Heads Up dodgeball and Kaboom Kickball.

Click here to search for programs (adult and youth). Click here to make sure your online account and family information is up to date. Click here to register.

Having trouble accessing your online account, or need an address change? Do not create another profile; call 203-341-5152 or email recreation@westportct.gov for help.

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A resident of Pequot Trail, off Sylvan Road North, writes:

“A house on our street has the greenest lawn in town, because they water it twice a day. Many neighbors have reported the house to Aquarion and the town, and placed notes in the mailbox. Yet the sprinklers keep running:=

 

“We’re curious about what happens in this situation, when someone blatantly ignores repeated notices about water usage/restrictions.”

We’re curious too.

Aquarion calls its water restrictions “mandatory.”

But its website says that residents “should” follow the twice-weekly (not twice-daily) schedule.

And its FAQ page answers a question about penalties for “violating the two-day mandatory irrigation schedule” this way:

Our main commitment is to educate the public about how they can use water more efficiently and sustainably; however, we can penalize violators, including shutting off their water, if their failure to follow the schedule impairs public resources.

Sounds as if “can” has not yet translated to “will.”

Perhaps the next step is to print this story out, and put it in the green lawn owner’s mailbox.

And then send a copy to Aquarion.

PS: This was the scene this morning, with several sprinklers going. Sunday is a legal watering day for house numbers ending in even numbers, or homes without numbers. The Pequot Trail home has an odd number:

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Meanwhile, Seth Schachter offers this sad photo for our continuing drought coverage.

It’s at the Turkey Hill North/Post Road intersection. He calls it “weeds need water too.”

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

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On the brighter environmental side:

Fran Taylor graduated from Staples High School in 1971. She’s lived for years in her native Kentucky, and loves it. But she remembers Westport fondly too. Fran writes:

“I love the Ned Dimes Marina photos on ‘06880.’ They bring back many memories of hanging out there regularly with a variety of friends.

“Imagine my surprise when I finally identified the name (Maritime Sunburst Lichen) of the yellow lichen creeping on to my back porch in Lexington — a thousand miles from any ‘maritime’ setting.

Maritime sunburst lichen, in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo/Fran Taylor)

“It looked familiar, but I couldn’t place where I’d seen it before. Cue Ned Dimes Marina — and just like that, so many memories came flooding back.

“Thanks to 06880 for keeping those precious memories, which trigger sights, sounds, smells and emotions, alive a half century later.”

And thank you, Fran. Please come visit whenever you can!

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The curtain rose officially last night for “4000 Miles.” The Westport Country Playhouse production stars Staples High School Class of 2013 graduate Clay Singer, and Fairfield resident Mia Dillon. The thought-provoking, rollercoaster-of-emotions show runs through September 4.

Last night’s curtain call, wit Clay Singer and Mia Dillon. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Jim White has lived or worked in Westport for 18 years.

His sister Kate White has no connection here, beyond knowing how much he loves this town.

But when Kate — a best-selling author, and former editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan — was writing her 16th suspense novel, The Second Husband, she set it in Westport

Jim had a great time helping his sister with background research. Among the local spots mentioned: Terrain, Spotted Horse and the Whelk.

Surprise! Those are some of Jim’s favorite restaurants too.

“It’s an excellent read,” Jim praises. And, he adds proudly, “Not only is she an amazing writer and editor, but she recently gave the commencement address at Union College — where she received an honorary doctorate of letters.

“She was in the first class of women accepted at Union, and was part of their celebration of 50 years of being co-ed. She has been a great inspiration to me, and I am sure many others.”

Jim hopes to get Kate here for a book signing or discussion. In the meantime, click here to order.

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Hayden S. Cabral died suddenly but peacefully in his sleep on Thursday. He was 21 years old.

Hayden is survived by his father Kevin Cabral, his mother Dawn Loecher, step-mother Laura Cabral, brothers Logan and Payton, sisters Lianna and Hailey, aunt and godmother Susan Cabral-Hiltz, uncle Harry Hiltz, uncle and godfather Scott Loecher, grand-uncle Carlo and aunt Marcy Cabral, cousins and many great friends.

He was predeceased by his grandparents Joseph and Betty Cabral, and Janet and Robert Loecher.

Friends will be received at the Harding Funeral Home tomorrow  (Monday, August 29, 4 to 8 p.m.) A Funeral Mass will be held at Assumption Church on Tuesday (August 30, 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

Hayden Cabral

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature features a beautiful blue heron. Amy Schneider sighted it on the Saugatuck River, near the Levitt Pavilion.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And finally … today is the 67th anniversary of the murder of Emmett Till. In 1955, the Black 14-yer-old was abducted, tortured and murdered in Mississippi. His brutal  death — and the decision by his mother to have an open casket, and a public funeral — helped galvanize the civil rights movement.

(“06880” is supported solely by readers. Please click here to contribute.)

4 Comments

Posted in Beach, Children, Environment, Media, Obituaries, Restaurants, Sports, Teenagers, Westport Country Playhouse

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Forget Yesterday. Drought Forces Mandatory Sprinkler Use.

Posted on July 19, 2022 | 4 comments

It’s been a glorious summer.

Temperatures are in the Goldilocks zone. The sun shines nearly every day; breezes are cool.

The only thing missing — until yesterday — was rain.

Despite those downpours, lower rainfall than normal, plus high water demand (pools and lawns, we’re talking about you), led Connecticut’s lnteragency Drought Working Group has to declare Stage 2 Drought conditions for the entire state.

Aquarion has instituted a mandatory, twice-weekly irrigation schedule for 13 towns. Westport is one of 7 in Fairfield County. The others are Darien, Fairfield, Greenwich, New Canaan, Newtown and Stamford.

For homeowners, that means sprinkler usage is based on the last digit of the house address.

If your house number ends in an even number, or you have no house number, you can use a sprinkler on Sundays and Wednesdays only, from midnight to 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. to midnight.

If your house number ends in an odd number, you can use a sprinkler only on Saturdays and Tuesdays, from midnight to 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. to midnight.

Aquarion encourages customers living outside the 13 towns to voluntarily follow the same schedule.

Aquarion president Donald Morrissey says, “Our reservoir levels are currently sufficient, and we’re hopeful that rain amounts will soon return to normal.  With our customers’ support, we are better able to mitigate the impacts of the current drought conditions.”

Hmmmm….

Other outdoor conservation measures include:

  • Adjusting your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn provides shade to the roots and helps retain soil moisture, so lawns requires less water.
  • Adjusting sprinklers so they water theh lawn and garden only, not the street or sidewalk.
  • Using hand watering or drip irrigation for shrubs and flowers.
  • Delaying new plantings until fall.
  • Inspecting irrigation systems for leaks, broken lines or blockages. In addition to water, this saves money and time.

Indoor water conservation measures include:

  • Turning off water while lathering up, shaving or brushing teeth.
  • Minimizing baths, and the amount of water used for them. Trim one minute off the length of your showers.
  • Washing only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
  • Hand washing dishes in a pan or the sink, not under continuous running water.
  • Reusing dehumidifier water, or using a bucket to capture shower and bath water while waiting for it to warm up; then using that to water plants.

Click here for additional water conservation tips.

(“06880” is a full-service blog — and dependent on reader contributions. Please click here to support our work.)

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Posted in Environment

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“Smart Water Westport” Urges Action

Posted on June 9, 2022 | 9 comments

According to “Smart Water Westport,” our town ranks first in Connecticut in water conservation.

However, the grassroots group says, Westport residents pay 50% more for water than Norwalkers, and more than double what our neighbors in Rhode Island and Massachusetts pay.

Meanwhile, Smart Water Westport has their eyes on the North Avenue water tanks. A few years ago, they secured almost 2,000 signatures on a petition for “smarter water solutions” in the debate over new tanks. In 2019, a regulator ruled that Aquarion intended to improve the situation, which led to a settlement. Construction began in 2020. 

Since then, residents near Staples High School — and everyone traveling the busy road — have watched  the project unfold.

Today, Smart Water Westport sends an open letter to Marissa Paslick Gillett. She chairs Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA). It says:

For the past 6 years, Westport residents have learned about the water systems in our town and state. While there are probably as many opinions on water as faucets in Westport, most of us agree on one point: If we knew in 2017 what we know now, there is no way that the tanks on North Avenue would have been approved.

One view of Aquarion’s North Avenue water tanks …

Today, we formally ask your agency to review the project in Westport. The reasons for such a review are the following:

  • Tank size: The new tanks on North Avenue are larger than the PURA ruling allows.
  • Water volume: Westport’s lack of water volume has never been an issue.
  • Violation of zoning laws: Aquarion essentially wrote its own permit.
  • Soil contamination: The soil on North Avenue was so contaminated that a specialized removal site rejected the delivery.
  • Innovation: Aquarion has no plans to install any 21st-century technologies.

Westport already has the nation’s highest utility costs in the Lower 48. You testified in March 2022 that Connecticut residents are suffering “death by a thousand cuts” (CT Examiner). We do not believe that it has to be this way, and we invite your agency to work with us to ensure:

  • fair and affordable rates for all residents,
  • safe water and increased fire protection, and
  • modern water management that actively addresses future challenges.

… and a close-up.

There is an urgency and importance for change now. Consider:

  • Water conservation and smart management will be imperative going forward; it must be part of the Connecticut Development and Future Commission working plan.
  • Important PURA projects, like the performance-based rate-setting framework or the advanced metering infrastructure, must include water issues.
  • Aquarion’s parent company, Eversource, has promised higher returns for investors, and this will result in even higher bills for Connecticut residents.
  • Issues surrounding water quality and fire protection have not been addressed.
  • Climate change has not even been considered in the State Water Plan.

Over the past 6 years, a group of neighbors has analyzed almost every number that Aquarion has publicly stated. In doing so, they have found many unanswered questions, instances of misleading information, and weak oversight, and this may explain why Connecticut ratepayers pay the nation’s highest water bills.

We are hopeful that this project will become a case study and model Westporters can look to with pride.

Kind regards,

Smart Water Westport

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Roundup: TikTok Teen Arrests, Water Main Break, Wall That Heals …

Posted on June 1, 2022 | 2 comments

Last Saturday night, the Westport Police Department received several calls from locations around town. All concerned a group of youths in a vehicle, shooting projectiles at pedestrians. One victim was struck in the eye.

Callers provide a detailed description of the vehicle. Officers found and stopped it near Greens Farms Road and Compo Road South.

All 3 occupants were juveniles. Police found toy air guns that fired gel-like projectiles at high speed.

The teens were participating in TikTok’s viral “Orbeez Challenge.”

The 3 juveniles were charged with multiple counts of assault 3rd degree, reckless endangerment 2nd Degree, and breach of peace 2nd degree. They were released to their parents.

Victims from that evening are encouraged to report the incidents to the Westport Police Department.

Gun and pellets used in the Orbeez Challenge.

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A photo contest for the cover of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce 2022-23 Visitors/Membership Guide is now open.

In 2015 and ’17, the Chamber received over 1,000 pictures from dozens of photographers, amateur and professional. Westport residents Mark Litvinoff and William Scalzi won, with their shots of the Levitt Pavilion and a serene dock setting respectively.

Scores of runner-up photos were used inside the 68-page booklet and map guide. Every winner received credit in the publication.

Any resident or businessperson from Westport or Weston may submit what they believe is the “quintessential” photo that represents our community. Use Dropbox, Google or an email attachment to send one or more photos to matthew@westportwestonchamber.com; use the subject line “Photo Contest.”

The deadline is June 19.  Be sure to have a full resolution of the photo for printing, but email a lower resolution for greatest efficiency.

Questions? Use the email above, or call 203-227-9234.

The 2017 guide.

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An “06880” reader reports that on Sunday, a number of homes in his Long Lots neighborhood lost water.

He called Aquarion, and was told there was a water break somewhere on Long Lots Road. That’s a first for him, in over 30 years here.

The break — apparently near Fairfield County Hunt Club — was fixed a few hours later. However, brown water persisted at least through yesterday.

What’s particularly distressing to him is that Aquarion never called him — either about the break, its cause or its resolution. There was a notice briefly on the water company’s website, he says, but it was soon gone.

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As Rev. Alison Patton heads to her sabbatical, visiting minister Rev. Dr. Jim Antal hits the ground — and Saugatuck Congregational Church — running.

The climate activist delivers a public lecture on June 9 (7:30 p.m.): “Let’s Makek our Coastal Community a Climate Leader!” The event is co-sponsored by Wakeman Town Farm and Sustainable Westport.

The lecture is followed by a community conversation about the topic.

In addition to his public talk, Rev. Antal will share a 3-sermon series, “Responding Faithfully to the Climate Crisis,” at Saugatuck Church on the first 3 Sundays in June.

Drawing from his activism and his book “Climate Church, Climate World: How People of Faith Must Work for Change,” Antal will challenge attendees to see their place in the work of climate justice.

The 10 a.m. topics are:

  • June 5: “Welcoming the Fullest Truth”
  • June 12: “Attenting to the Source”
  • June 19″ Living Into a New Story.”

The public is welcome to attend those services too.

===================================================

Terrence Dunn was sworn in as Westport’s new fire marshal yesterday. He replaces Nate Gibbons, who has retired.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker calls Dunn “a genuine and humble leader who has the skills and experience necessary to ensure that the Fire Department continues to provide exceptional service to the community.”

He was hired as a Westport firefighter in 2003, and promoted to fire inspector in 2009. He graduated from the University of New Haven with a major in arson investigation and a minor in criminal justice.

Along with state certification as a fire marshal, Dunn is licensed as an assistant building official. He is first vice president of the Connecticut Fire Marshal’s Association, a member of the Fairfield/New Haven County Fire Marshal’s Association, the International Association of Arson Investigators, and District 8 Building Official’s Association.

A formal pinning ceremony on June 21 (5 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church) will celebrate the department’s promotions and medals.

Fire marshal Terry Dunn

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“The Wall That Heals” is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. Since its dedication in 1996, it has been displayed at nearly 700 communities across the country.

From tomorrow (June 2) through June 5, it will occupy a place of honor at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Norwalk.

Yesterday, the Westport Police and Fire Departments helped escort it from its staging area at Sherwood Island State Park to the park. Click here for details of the exhibit.

The staging area at Sherwood Island. (Photo and hat tip/Chris Swan)

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Anthony LoFrisco is a Westport motorcycle rider. He’s organized a series of rides.

But they’re not just rev-up-the-engines-and-make-loud-noises jaunts. Starting last Sunday, and continuing each month through August, they deliver donated items to food pantries throughout Fairfield County.

The first was to the Gillespie Center in Westport, from Grace Community Church in New Canaan. Parishioners provided cereal, peanut butter, jelly, pasta sauce, canned goods and other items.

The weather was beautiful. The riders — on 4 BMWs and 1 Harley — met at the Westport train station, headed to the church, then returned here for the drop-off.

The next deliveries will be in Stamford, Bridgeport, and then the Gillespie Center again. Anthony invites everyone to drop off non-perishable food items at 11:15 a.m. on June 26, July 31 and August 28 — and/or join the motorcycle riders.

For more information, email anthony@lofrisco.com.

Motorcycle gang at the Gillespie Center.

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This weekend, celebrate Connecticut Trails Day (actually, 2 days). The event draws thousands of people of all backgrounds, ages, abilities and interests, across the state. 

Friends of Sherwood Island State Park will host 4 hikes:

Saturday, June 4: Butterfly Walk (10 a.m.): Explore the gardens and natural areas around the park’s Nature Center, searching for caterpillars, skippers, moths and butterflies. Bring binoculars and a camera or smartphone. You’ll learn how to report your findings on iNaturalist, so scientists everywhere can see how these insects are doing.

Saturday, June 4: Kayak Paddle (1 p.m.): See Sherwood Island from the water. Explore the park’s shoreline. Bring your own kayak, canoe or other paddle craft, and a pump/bailer. A life vest and whistle/horn are required by state boating regulations.

Sunday, June 5: Archaeology Walk (1 p.m.): See interesting terrain, and examine traces of past inhabitants, from 1000 B.C. to the 1940s. Learn about recent excavations, including Native American, early settlers, and onion farmers.

Sunday, June 5: Nature Walk (2 p.m.): Go beach to beach  along Long Island Sound. Discover habitats, inhabitants, birding locations, viewing platforms, a purple martin enclave, and other special features of this waterfront park. Other points of interest include Connecticut’s 9/11 Memorial, model aircraft airport, trail heads, wetlands, and a pine forest.

Click here for more details. For questions, and to register (recommended, but not required), email cece@historicalperspectives.org, or call 203-984-1488.

Sherwood Island State Park is a natural wonderland. (Elena Nasereddin)

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1999 Staples High School graduate Kyle Martino has been the National High School Soccer Player of the Year, MLS Rookie of the Year, a US men’s national team athlete, and a highly regarded analyst on NBC Sports.

Now he’s the founder of the Over Under Initiative. The non-profit increases access to sports in urban neighborhoods, by converting basketball courts and other blacktops to multi-sport spaces. Martino designed the innovative and elegantly simple conversion process himself.

On June 13 (5:30 p.m., Autostrada, 499 Post Road East), Martino joins Westporters Dan Donovan, Mark Kirby and friends for a fundraiser. Tickets are $250 each. To attend and for more information, email rsvp@overunderinitiative.com.

Youngsters play at Cesar Batalla School’s new multi-sport court. The soccer goal can be pulled out of the ground, then sunk back into the ground, with ease. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Lou Weinberg sends along this gorgeous “Westport … Naturally” image of a Lansdowne song sparrow — and adds a link to its equally beautiful song:

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

======================================================

And finally … Happy Connecticut Trails Day!

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Water Flows From Aquarion Tanks

Posted on February 20, 2022 | 2 comments

There was no official announcement. Or perhaps I missed it.

But — along with its monthly water bills — Aquarion sent this information to customers recently:

“Westport’s New Water Tanks Operational

“Aquarion customers in Westport now have a significantly expanded water storage supply for fire protection and everyday needs with the recently completion of the construction project on North Avenue. The project replaced a rusting steel tank built in 1956 with a pair of new, concrete ones.

“Combined, the tanks can store 4.3 million gallons of water — almost triple the capacity of the one they’ve replaced.

Construction on the North Avenue water tanks. (Photo courtesy of Aquarion)

“Westport was just one of many communities across the country where old and obsolete water infrastructure was in need of an upgrade, especially in the face of 6 or more decades of population and economic growth.

“In the spring, we’ll begin a major landscaping project that will not only restore the site but improve its aesthetics as well. We’ll also complete the exterior finish work on the tanks. Meanwhile, the tanks themselves are fully operational.

“We’re delighted to bring water service in Westport to this robust new level, and thank local residents for their patience during the construction phase of this project.”

The $10 million project drew protests from neighbors and town officials. It proceeded only after a settlement was reached, covering areas including height, landscaping, and traffic management during construction.

(Hat tip: Seth Schachter)

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The Rage Of Aquarion

Posted on September 29, 2021 | 5 comments

Prospect Road is a Westport gem.

With its stately homes, old growth trees, and the gardens and greenery of John and Melissa Ceriale, no one would confuse the Greens Farms neighborhood with the Third World.

But when the Ceriales turned on the tap a few days ago, after a summer away, the water was brown.

Half an hour later, it had not cleared.

They were not alone. Turns out their neighbors had brown water since July 4th.

Their toilets and laundry were stained. They could not shower. They spent a lot of money on bottled water.

Discolored water on Prospect Road.

Neighbors alled Aquarion — repeatedly. The water company’s responses included:

  • “Check your water tank.”
  • “Just run your faucets. This happens to my vacation home in Rhode Island as well.”
  • “Is there construction in your area?”
  • “The fire department may be testing.”
  • “Do you live near a golf course?”

Workers flushed the hydrants and lines three times. Each time they said they tested the water; it was all good.

Wesptort Deputy Fire Chief Michael Kronick was very helpful, trying to reach Aquarion engineers.

Finally, one of the Ceriales’ neighbors found personal contact information for Aquarion’s CEO and vice president of operations. She called and emailed.

That seemed to get some response. The other day, workers reappeared.

“That’s just not right,” the neighbor said — referring both to Aquarion’s lack of urgency and solutions all summer, and the need to involve the C-Suite.

Fortunately, Melissa notes, the flowers and plants in her gorgeous garden don’t mind brown water.

But the rest of Prospect Road does.

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