Community Corner

Swampscott Needs a Volunteer Solar Coach

Noteworthies for today, Oct. 11.

1. Solar Notes: This request comes from Brian Szekely, Swampscott's town planner/energy efficiency manager.

Are you interested in solar energy?  Would you like to see it integrated more throughout the town? The Renewable Energy Committee is looking for a volunteer that can lead the effort.

Our town is applying for a very unique program called Solarize Massachusetts.  Sponsored by the Mass Clean Energy Center, it is directed specifically at private residents allowing them to aggregate their purchasing power as one large group.  This drives down costs in a community effort to make solar affordable.  We are partnering our application with the city of Salem to pursue even more buying power.

Find out what's happening in Swampscottwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

One requirement in the application process is to provide a single point person called a "Solar Coach".  Working with the town energy manager, the REC, and other solar program volunteers, this person will be the community liaison able to answer community questions and organize several local educational events.  Responsibilities will be from November 2013 through May 2014.

A number of town residents have already stepped forward to volunteer their time and expertise.  However at the moment we still need a dedicated Solar Coach before we can finalize the application in 2 weeks.  This is a great opportunity for someone who may have some extra time in their schedule, looking to take action and make a difference in our community.  Seeing solar installations on homes in Swampscott can be your legacy.  This is a volunteer position.   If the Swampscott/Salem partnership is selected, the Mass CEC will train the Solar Coach for all necessary duties. This person does not have to have previous experience with solar, but should have some knowledge about renewable energy and passion to make change. 

Find out what's happening in Swampscottwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The last day to apply for this position is Friday October 18th.  If you are interested or have further questions, please call Brian Szekely, Swampscott's Energy Manager at 781-596-8829 or email him at bszekely@town.swampscott.ma.us.

2. Weather Watch: 

Thursday's forecast calls for a cloudy day with a high temperature of 63 degrees.
  • Sunrise: 6:51 a.m.
  • Low tide: 10:32 a.m.
  • High tide: 4:48 p.m.
  • Sunset: 6:07 p.m.

3. Pink Notes: 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Swampscott High football coach Steve Dembowski is involved in a program, partnered with the NFL, called Coaches vs. Cancer. 

Coaches vs. Cancer is a program that empowers coaches, their teams, and local communities to make a difference in the fight against cancer.  At the home game, on Saturday, Oct. 19th, the Big Blue will be wearing pink in support of this program. 

Fans can take part by wearing pink and supporting the Coaches vs. Cancer cause.

The Swampscott Gridiron Club will be collecting $$$ donations at the game, please support these efforts. Unfortunately, this disease has affected everyone in one way or another. Big Blue supporters ask that people please contribute to the cause in honor of or in memory of someone you know, and the supporters thank you for supporting them and the fight against cancer.

4. Police Notes:

The Swampscott Police Department invites the public to an open house at the new station, 531 Humphrey St., on Saturday, Oct 26 from noon to 2 p.m., said Police Chief Ron Madigan. The event will include station tours, demonstrations and activities for the kids.

5. Sea Notes: 

Kayaks and Prams must be off the beach by Oct. 31.



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