WGRZ.com, September 8, 2008, Monday

WGRZ.com

September 8, 2008, Monday

WGRZ.com

Weatherization

If you have an environment or "green" story you would like to see us cover, drop me a line at andy.parker@wgrz.com.

We're just a few days into September and the sun is still providing mild temps and comfortable breezes, but soon residents in the Black Rock - Riverside area will get some help preparing for cooler weather.

State Senator Antoine Thompson along with Councilman Joe Golombek and Legislator Maria Whyte presented the WNY Apollo Alliance with a check to assist residents with keeping heat in and the winter chill out! The Apollo Alliance is a national organization with local ties whose mission is to save energy and Art Wheaton of the Apollo Alliance is hoping to build on last year's success. "Last year we did about 40 individual homes on the west side. We put in weather stripping around doors, insulation around water heaters, fix cracks or put caulk to try and insulate the home. Art says some basic improvements can make a big difference. "

Art Wheaton/Co-Chair WNY Apollo Alliance "You have the Heap program and others to try to pay money to the electric and gas companies to offset their bills, but that's throwing the money towards wasted energy. We're trying to reduce the amount of energy use. "

While $6,400 may not seem like that much money, Brian Paterson says they can do a lot with a little. Brian Paterson/V.P. New Buffalo Impact " One of the great things about this program is that it requires a small expenditure of public funds. All the work will be done by volunteers. A lot of student volunteers and union carpenter volunteers with direction from a certified home performance contractor."

With energy costs rising, taking some steps to increase energy efficiency can make enough of a difference to minimize the financial impact before the winter winds blow. In Black Rock Meteorologist Andy Parker Channel 2 News

If you are in the 14207 zipcode and would like more info, please call the office of Legislator Maria Whyte at 874-3257.