Westwood Self Imposed Power Outage
February 26, 1978
THREE MORE DAYS IN THE DARK — Many Westwood residents can look forward to three more days of a self imposed power outage, but most seem to be enjoying the event. On a visit to the town Wednesday evening, electrically lit homes were widely scattered and the glow of oil and kerosene lanterns was a common sight.
One complaint recently leveled against CPU by Westwood residents is that meters are being read from alleys by meter readers with binoculars. John Hoffman, pictured at top, doesn’t conceal the fact, but says he has a reason — dogs. At the location pictured above, a dog was chained to a nearby tree and Hoffman says the dog is usually chained up — to the meter.
“There was a time when you would have to fight 15 dogs in two blocks,” Hoffman said. He admits the situation has changed but he still uses the glasses when needed.
Westwood residents, such as those in the lower photo, at home of Victims of CPU Publicity Chairman Pauline Asmus, have been gathering to share potluck dinners and seem to enjoy the experience in each other’s company. Oil and kerosene lanterns light homes, while food is stored in snow. Oil and wood-burning stoves keep homes pleasantly warm.
Mrs. Asmus says the group has been deluged by telephone calls and visits from the media and promises some surprises stemming from their investigations. (Advocate photo).
