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Solar Power 101
Over the past few months we have referred to the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) units at our properties as a component of our Real Return Initiative. In this issue, we thought it would be interesting to provide you with an introduction to how solar power works.
* Light hits your roof's solar panels with photons (particles of sunlight).
*The panel converts those photons into electrons of direct current ("DC") electricity. Naturally, the sunnier it is, the more energy is produced by the panels.
* Those produced electrons flow out of the panel and into an inverter and other electrical safety devices.
* The inverter converts that "DC" power into alternating current or "AC" power. AC power is the kind of electric juice that your television, computer, and toasters use when plugged into the wall outlet.
* A bi-directional meter keeps track of the all the power your solar system produces. Any solar energy that you don't use immediately will go back into the grid through the meter. Then at night or on cloudy days, that extra solar juice is credited back to your bill.
For even more information, check out:
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Lower Cape Recycling Groups Connect
We brought together members of Recycling and Solid Waste Reduction Committees on the Lower Cape for the first time on February 13th for an important and timely Forum. David Quinn, Barnstable County's Regional  Waste Reduction Coordinator, led a discussion about the impending significant cost increases to remove solid waste and the ever-growing important role of recycling. Participants had an opportunity to share challenges and successes as they continue to hone recycling programs and outreach in their individual towns. The group was enthusiastic about meeting again in order continue to learn from and support one another in an effort to achieve their local goals. |
Housing Rehab Loan Program in Full Swing
We've been working with The Harwich Ecumenical Council for Housing (HECH) since last Fall to deliver a Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program. This vital program helps to preserve existing housing stock for qualified year-round residents in Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Harwich and Dennis. Currently 28 households are benefiting from the work of the program. We are circulating over a half million dollars
into the local economy to employ carpenters, electricians, masons, plumbers and support building supply businesses. The work is addressing critical safety code concerns, roofing and siding and energy efficiency upgrades, including windows and doors. For more information, click here.
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Getting "On Board"
Volunteers are invaluable to the work of our organization, so we're thrilled to be able to introduce two new additions to our base.
Jane Teixeira-Henry has rejoined our Board of Directors. After graduating from Harwich High School, Jane had a diverse professional career. She worked at Otis Air Force Base, with the United Nations, the New York State Electric and Gas Company, and at an oceanographic research firm. She also held a variety of positions within the U.S. government in Washington DC, including assisting the Press Secretary and as the Staff Administrator to the U.S. House of Rep. Budget Committee. She returned to the Cape in 2008 to build and manage an ADA compliant Bed and Breakfast.
Paul P. Garganigo has joined our Asset Management Committee. Paul is a Commercial Lender with Seamen's Bank. |
A Note from Jay
Winter on the Lower Cape is often considered the quiet time. However, for me and my colleagues here at the CDP it has been a busy winter!
Our Business & Credit Programs Team has been hard at work with local fishermen reviewing applications to lease scallop quota from the CDP at below market rates and ensuring that our small boat fishermen remain a vital part of our economy.
In this issue, you read about our Housing Rehab Loan Program, the families benefiting and the money that is being poured back into our local economy employing builders and contractors.
Two more solar installations have gone on line as part of our Real Return Initiative - lowering the energy costs of our facilities. And, work is under way on a fifth solar installation at one of our affordable rental properties in Harwich. I hope you enjoyed learning more about the basics of solar power in this issue.And finally, we are hard at work preparing our budget for the next fiscal year which begins in July. We will again need to turn to you, as one of our supporters, for your financial contributions that make it possible to do the important work we do.Remember, if you'd like to receive more regular updates about our work:
Jay Coburn
Executive Director
Community Development Partnership
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Thank you for helping us create opportunities for people to live, work and thrive on the Lower Cape.  |
Upcoming dates:
March 14th
April 18th
The CDP has arranged with SCORE to offer Individual Business Counseling with SCORE counselors right here in Eastham.
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2 Basic Business Workshops
Wednesday, March 13th
9:00-Noon: "Learn the Fundamentals in Planning, Preparing, and Financing Your Business"
1:00-4:00: "Understanding the Purpose of Financial Statements and How They Can Help Determine the Health of Your Business" Both workshops will be held at Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank, 171 Falmouth Road, Hyannis.
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Calling Emerging ArtistsWellfleet Blossoms is seeking local Emerging Artists to exhibit their work during its second annual weekend festival in April. Deadline to apply is March 1st.
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Tune In
This Place Matters
Wednesdays at 12:30pm
Join host Susan Lindquist
lunchtime talk about life on the Lower Cape
February 20th - Beth O'Rourke from Provincetown TV
February 22nd - Recylcing Adventures with Sheila Hoogeboom, Lydia Vivante and David Quinn
Do you have an idea for a guest or topic ? Contact us
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This institution is an equal opportunity provider
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