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First, we want to wish all of you a happy New Year; may this year be one where you keep all your resolutions! 

Second, we would like to announce the 3rd Santa Cruz County Energy Expo aimed at providing individuals in the community with information and options for reducing energy costs and taking advantage of new technology and incentives to generate more energy from solar and wind power. 

The Energy Expo builds on the 2009 Renewable Energy Expo held last April at the Sonoita Fairgrounds. The Expo drew more than 300 community members, 17 exhibitors as well as seven expert speakers. This year, the Energy Expo expects to attract an even larger number of exhibitors (30) and speakers (10), including not only individuals and companies from the renewable energy community, but folks who are deeply involved in developing products and new strategies for energy savings (for example: energy-efficient windows and shades, paint coatings, water harvesting, alternative building materials and more).  

Our community's commitment to activities aimed at adopting new technologies has attracted the attention of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Members of her staff will be present at the Energy Expo to present Solar 101, a seminar to help individuals and businesses learn about the benefits of solar energy. 

We hope that you will reserve March 27 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Patagonia Union High School for the Energy Expo on your calendars and tell your neighbors.

One last, but very important comment: It requires a major effort to support an activity of this magnitude. In order to make the Energy Expo a success, we need volunteers to work with Jeanne Horsmann in order to make sure that the site is ready, exhibitors and speakers are supported, and the community can be accommodated comfortably (with food and water!). Please contact Jeanne as soon as possible so that she knows that she can count on your support ( bugle2@earthlink.net). 

Bob Barnhill, President SCCF

Steve Strom, Secretary