Area residents gather for DDATT first Friday heating forum

    DEXTER — Over 20 local residents gathered recently in Dexter’s Abbott Memorial Library to participate in a spirited first Friday discussion about home heating, sponsored by Dexter-Dover Area Towns in Transition (DDATT).

    Ed Hummel, one of the DDATT organizers, began by defining the basics of energy, what it is, how it moves, and how to apply this knowledge when trying to heat our homes. A lively discussion ensued about practical solutions to actual heating and comfort problems. Woodstove setup and operation, chimney maintenance, catalytic converters, qualities and properties of various types of insulation (including snow), and firewood drying techniques were explored, whetting the participants’ appetite for a follow-up meeting soon.

    DDATT sponsors a discussion group on the first Friday of every month at the Abbott Memorial Library on topics of community interest, to which everyone is welcome at no charge. A short introduction to the monthly subject starts the meeting, followed by a moderated discussion. Light refreshments help keep everyone’s batteries charged during the evening.

    The next first Friday, Feb. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m., will feature “Alternative Currencies,” innovative ideas on how can we reshape our local economy to use fewer dollars. We are “skill rich” but “cash Poor.”  Time Banks, local “dollars,” and barter will be considered. 

    DDATT is a group of local citizens helping develop food, energy, and economic systems that support a community moving from dependence on fossil fuels.  For more information, please contact info@ddatt.org or 277-4221.