Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz Promotes Local Energy Efficiency Efforts By Recognizing Weatherization measures and efficient lighting.

 Brooklyn, NY, Oct. 28, 2003 - Q: How many borough presidents does it take to change a light bulb?

 A: Just one - and if you use an energy-efficient bulb, he just might drop by to show you. Just ask Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President, who plans to promote energy awareness by replacing a standard incandescent light bulb with an energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulb, at 1201 Avenue K, a local apartment building at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30.

 President Markowitz will make the appearance in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program, a presidential priority program that reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, while ensuring their health and safety.  Low-income households spend four times more of their annual income on energy bills than average households - a disparity that often forces tough choices about cutting back on essential needs in order to pay energy bills.

  "Brooklynites know a good deal when they see one. By taking steps now to conserve energy homeowners can save money in the long run and help reduce energy consumption," said Borough President Markowitz.  "It seems like a small thing, but even changing the light bulbs can mean big savings."
 On average, weatherization measures reduce annual energy costs by more than $220 per household.  Depending on the needs of the clients, weatherization crews can install energy-efficient products, caulk windows, replace insulation, and repair broken heating units. Crews can also test for deadly carbon monoxide gas - and if needed, can provide homeowners with a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke alarm.
 For more information about weatherization, visit www.eere.energy.gov/weatherization.html or call Melissa Ortiz (718) 492-8580.  

For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov or call Serena Ingre at (301) 628-2047. For more information from the Borough President’s office, contact Andy Ross at (718) 802-3830.

From left to right are
Charles Okoh, (far left )Auditor SPRC
Wendel Rice, rear) WAP Director Bedstuy Development
Vito de Cicco, Chairman SPRC
Judy Colegero, DHCR Commisioner
Martin Kirzner, (rear) Building Manager 1201 Avenue K
Gary Brown, Fiscal Officer SPRC
Daniel Grau, (rear) DHCR Weatherization field representative
Councilman Feldman, Midwood Brooklyn
Eric Beaton, (rear) Bioenergy and Weatherization Assistance Program Manager
U.S. Department of Energy Northeast Regional Office
Leroy Willams, NY city fire Department
Jim Wickham, SPRC staff