Retired trustee and Treasurer Fred Schlicher is active in municipal affairs, as well, and he's now putting in time at the Mass Climate Action Network.  He's also chairing Old Medford High's "Low Carbon Diet" Committee.  This workshop program of select residents is meeting periodically to learn about ways we can reduce our carbon footprint on the environment while helping reduce energy consumption.  Current resident participants include Kyna Hamill, Kevin Fay, Leslie Spieth, LuQ McDermott, and Peter Grossman.  Thanks all for your contributions!
 
In response, the Board of Trustees has agreed to support projects and ideas proposed by our MCAN participants, such as window treatments and water-saving measures, as the budget allows.

Regarding windows, we have been advised by a major manufacturer that inside storm windows poses safety concerns for windows our size; therefore, the Association will not be sponsoring a project to install them.  However, window quilts are still an option.  Please check out www.warmandtoastywindows.com and give them a call if this is something you are considering.  This central MA window company may not be viable for individual jobs due to their distant location, but if enough interest is logged in, it may be possible to put together an economy-of-scale project.

The conservation program run by National Grid and RISE Engineering is currently underway.  Many residents have taken advantage of this opportunity to replace old or inefficient fixtures at no cost.  Others are having their heat pumps checked at below-market cost to encourage responsible maintenance of the heating systems.  RISE is also working with our ASSOCIATION to address common-area air penetration issues in an effort to reduce heat loss in our building.

You can learn about even more pro-environmental initiatives through the Medford Environmental Alliance, and also Voluntary Carbon Offsets, a joint project of Tufts University and the Stockholm Environment Institute.

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Below are several helpful resources provided by members of MCAN:

RESOURCES FOR YOUR HOME  -  Need a new shower head?  How about energy miser light bulbs?  These types of items can cut your utility costs without sacrificing comfort or living in the dark.  If you're looking for a smart way to dispose of your smart bulbs (commonly called CFL's), read up on the issue.  And of course, Energy Star appliances are making a differences in homes across the nation.  Read up on how new technology is making a difference.

RESOURCES FOR YOUR CAR  -  THe EPA provides up-to-date info on trends in green vehicles and fuel economy.  Check back frequently, as this industry is on the fast track.

TOO MUCH JUNK? - Is massive junk mail burying you with meaningless rhetoric and empty promises?  It certainly clogs up our humble recycling system here at the Schoolhouse!  Try contacting the Direct Marketing Association as a first step toward removing your address from telemarketing lists.   Coop America also has a program geared toward alleviating this remarkably persistent waste of resources.

More to come!  Every step we take makes a difference...