First Selectman Candidate Steinberg Releases Statement on Eversource’s Response to Henri
From First Selectman candidate Jonathan Steinberg“Although Westport didn’t get hit hard this time, early reviews suggest that Eversource was much better prepared for this storm than in the past. That is because, as a longtime member of the Energy and Technology Committee, I championed legislation that finally holds Eversource accountable for their storm responses. Customers can now get compensated for food ruined when Eversource fails to get power up and running in a timely manner. And we gave PURA, the regulatory authority, the power needed to hold utilities accountable when they cut corners at our expense.
As First Selectman, I will continue to leverage my statewide contacts and push Eversource on storm preparation and enhance communication both with Eversource and the community -- so you can get straight answers on when things will get fixed and when we can return to normal.
We were lucky this time, but there are more storms in our future. I’m committed to making sure Eversource does its job - every day.”
Westport Beaches Remain Closed to Swimming due to Possible Contamination
After this week’s heavy rains produced higher than average runoff rates and possible discharge of untreated sewage, beaches around the State remain closed to swimming today due to contamination threats. Today and tomorrow’s high heat will only exacerbate the problem as bacteria may have a better environment to grow before it can dissipate. Westport’s beaches and rivers are all affected by this closure, which is particularly affecting local businesses who rely on paddleboard and kayak rentals in the community as school begins in just over a week.
In 2019, two separate sewage leaks in Westport closed beaches in early and mid August while repairs could be made to aging infrastructure. This week’s precautionary closures are not due to a malfunction of the sewer system, which can be overloaded when rainwater floods the local pipes and treatment system, while chemicals from lawns and roadways are washed into the waterways.
Westport Weston Health District 08/23:Director of Health Mark Cooper is reminding residents that Beaches are closed to swimming because the DEEP (State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection) and Department of Public Health are advising against swimming and/or other water contact recreation until after Tropical Storm Henri has passed and any contaminated water has had time to dissipate. The state is recommending at least 72 before contact with potentially contaminate waters.
DEEP and DPH Advise Against Swimming or Other Water Contact Recreation Over Next 72 Hours Due to Tropical Storm Henri's Impact
(HARTFORD)— Given the significant rainfall that occurred (and is still expected) due to Tropical Storm Henri, many areas across the state have experienced discharges of untreated sewage. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) are advising against direct contact with surface water in areas in close proximity to drainage pipes statewide, particularly in urban areas such as Bridgeport, Hartford, Norwalk, Norwich, and the greater New Haven area over the next 72 hours in Connecticut's streams and rivers. Residents are advised not to swim, fish, or utilize paddle craft in these areas.
Cooking with Sam Seideman: The Perfect Salsa Recipe
Chef’s Tips:
Use fresh when you can!!
The tomatoes and jalapeños used are fresh from Sam’s garden. This makes a huge difference regarding the taste of the salsa.
Use canned tomatoes only for the consistency of the salsa. Basically, if you don’t need to use them don’t (all fresh tomatoes are different, so sometimes adding the canned tomatoes helps the consistency while other times it’s not needed).
Char the tomatoes and peppers to take your dip to the next level.
Enjoy on anything from tortilla chips to tacos and quesadillas!
Click Here for The Perfect Salsa Recipe by Westporter Sam Seideman
Ingredients:
6 Roma tomatoes
3 jalapeños
1 poblano
1/2 red onion
3 cloves of garlic
1 can green chilis
1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
Salt
Cumin
Directions:
1.Turn oven to broil.
2.Halve tomatoes and peppers (don’t deseed the peppers unless you are looking for a very mild salsa) and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.
3.Place tray under the broiler for about 4 minutes or until the tomatoes and peppers appear charred on top.
4.Remove and allow to slightly cool
5.Add into food processor and pulse until mixed together but still chunky
6.Add chilis, red onion, cilantro, and garlic
7.Pulse until mixed together but still chunky
8.Allow to sit in fridge for at least three hours to allow for flavors to develop
9.Season to taste with salt and cumin
10.Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Morning Weather Report: Sun Returns with High Heat
Today
Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. West wind 6 to 8 mph.
High Tides: 1:00 AM/1:23 PM
Low Tides: 7:24 AM/7:47 PM
Tonight
Mostly clear, with a low around 69. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tomorrow
Sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming southwest 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.
Tomorrow Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 71. Light and variable wind.