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FAIRFIELD, Conn. Sean Carney couldnt figure out why he and his son Brandon were the only fishermen on Jennings Beachs pier Saturday afternoon. Sure, Hurricane Irene was less than 24 hours away from Fairfields coast. But just after noon Saturday, the tide was high but not choppy, and blue snappers had just come in to town.
We thought wed get some good fishing, Carney said when asked why he and Brandon came out in the drizzle. And weve got a screw loose.
Forecasts predict Hurricane Irene to hit Bridgeport at about 2 p.m. Sunday. While the Carneys were out fishing, homeowners just blocks away were boarding up their windows and preparing for the mandatory evacuation set to begin at noon Saturday. But along Fairfields beaches, small groups of people decided to enjoy the beach once more before the storm shuttered them inside.
Dan Loh wouldnt have been a curious sight on most Saturdays in August. He was sitting on Jennings Beach, just a few feet from the water, battling with the wind to finish a crossword puzzle. But this particular Saturday, Loh proved to be a strange sight a lone man with no one within 100 yards.
Its a great day, Loh said. The waters nice, the air is nice, the breeze is pleasant. Ive been in the office all week, so its nice to get out and get some fresh air.
In between the Carneys and Loh, just a few dozen people were scattered about Fairfields beaches. Most simply strolled along the water as the waves broke normally on the shore. John Guadagno and his daughter Marnie took advantage of the wind and the open space to fly a kite. A group of 10 dads and sons played a pickup soccer game in the sand.
But Fairfields beaches were mostly a peaceful sight. And thats exactly why Loh stopped by instead of hunkering down for the hurricane early. Its great, he said. Its peaceful.
What are you doing before Hurricane Irene comes? Send your own photos from before, during and after the storm to gcanuel@thedailyfairfield.com.
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