Solar Panel Update, SHS Sports and 'Alternative' to Channel 15 Black Out

So here’s the scoop for today, Feb. 8, 2011.

The Winds Come In –

Some overnight snow will continue this morning but with little accumulation as temperatures remain in the mid 30s, however a strong breeze will blow much of the day and winds could pick up in the afternoon with gusts in the range of 35 mph.

The windy day could turn into a cold, even windier night with a temperatures falling into single digits and a constant 5 – 15 mph breeze that will surge at times, with gusts of wind near 40 mph according to the National Weather Service.

Make sure you have candles ready in your home and alternative plans if you use electric heat as the winds could cause electrical outages across town.

20 Percent By 2010 Campaign –

The town’s energy committee will meet today during a special meeting at the Southington Water Department, 605 W. Queen St., and will provide an update of the 20 Percent by 2010 Campaign.

As the group was nearing the end of 2010, they were just a few pledges shy of a public participation goal that would have allowed them to move forward in securing four solar panels that would demonstrate clean energy options to Southington residents.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. and is open to the public.

As “Black Out” Continues, But There Is An Option –

When local Cox Communications customers turn their televisions to Channel 15, a message still reminds them that there is no programming available at this time as a result of last Friday’s roof collapse at the Public Access office, 1701 Highland Ave. in Cheshire.

In the meantime, however, local residents do have another option when it comes to following government and schools in the meantime. See the latest meeting videos online by going to http://www.theeventisonline.com/Southington/southington.html and selecting the board you want to see.

SHS Sports –

After a day off Monday for all teams, basketball and swimming/diving teams return to action tonight.

The Blue Knights boys’ basketball team will host Northwest Catholic at Southington High School, starting at 7 p.m., while the Lady Knights varsity squad will travel to Northwest Catholic.

In other sports, the boys’ swimming and diving team will travel to the pool at Miss Porter’s School for a meet that begins at 7 p.m.

Still Seeking Local ‘Whiz Kids’ –

Southington Patch I looking to highlight the best and brightest in the community, but we need your help. The website will feature a different child, youth club or sports team every week but before we can begin, we need your nominations.

Send your nomination and a brief description of their talents and/or achievements and we will get back to you as quickly as possible. Nominations can be sent to Local Editor Jason Vallee at jason.vallee@patch.com.