Business notebook: Warwick goes solar

WARWICK - Patrick Gallagher, owner of Gallagher Solar of Warwick, recently reported that his business had improved dramatically as people learned how much he can help them reduce expenses. “We’ve done about six jobs in this area in the last few months,” he said. “And both federal and New York State tax credits can help pay for substantial portions of our solar hot water systems.” Gallagher also pointed out that senior citizens are leading the way and that any home, regardless of its age or style, can easily have solar hot water panels installed. He explained that solar water heating systems were actually first introduced in the 1890s. Since that time however, abundant and low cost fuels and electric power, diminished the appeal of solar hot water heating. But the situation today is much different. “Look at the beautiful older home owned by Jerry and Lucy Fischetti on the corner of Galloway Road and Oakland Avenue,” said Gallagher. “It’s described by the architectural review board as the ‘Gateway to Warwick.’” He explained that when Jerry Fischetti first saw his utility bill triple and then quadruple, he decided to install solar hot water as an environmental measure that would have a big impact on his monthly expenses. “Even before we had time to trim the hickory close to the house, the temperature of the water tank had risen as high as 133 degrees just from the sun,” said Gallagher. He also reported that Vince and Sandy Copello, who live on DeKay Road and who are close friends of the Fischettis, are now taking free showers. That’s because Gallagher Solar of Warwick also added solar hot water to their home. Gallagher Solar Thermal, located on 57 West St., is a solar contracting company that specializes in the installation and maintenance of solar hot water, solar pool heating and solar space heating. The company also evaluates, refurbishes, and repairs existing systems. For additional information, call 258-0749. Exhibit by Louise Earnest now at the Pioneer Restaurant The Pioneer Restaurant, 49 Oakland Ave., Warwick, traditionally features the works of local artists for the enjoyment of its patrons and as a way to support the artist community. The current exhibit is that of the works of Warwick resident and well know artist, Louise Earnest, a member of the Warwick Art League. Her style, a combination of realism and impressionism, has evolved over 20 years to a form of impressionistic abstraction. The subject matter varies from studio composition to landscape. The Pioneer Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Monday and Tuesday. Thursday evenings are, “Ladies Night,” at the Pioneer. While they enjoy their dinners, the ladies will be offered a complimentary glass of wine. And a Pioneer specialty is Prime Rib served Fridays and Saturdays. Call 986-6500 for information or reservations. More Home for the Holidays Home for the Holidays is an annual celebration designed to present downtown Warwick as a fun and convenient place to do all your holiday shopping. And during the month long celebration residents and visitors can look forward to visits from Santa, horse and buggy rides and a few other surprises. Last Friday evening for example, the Warwick Valley Fire Department held its annual lighting of the Christmas tree and an early surprise visit by Santa at Lewis Park. And the following day, the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce offered free horse and buggy rides departing from Railroad Green. The popular free horse and buggy rides will return next Saturday afternoon, Dec. 13. And from now until Jan. 1, parking meters are free. The Warwick merchants are well aware that the economy is slowing, but they will be offering special sales and downtown Warwick is not far from home. More to follow. Chamber news The Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold a festive holiday business mixer showcasing the Chateau Hathorn, 33 Hathorn Road, Warwick next Thursday, Dec. 11, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The event will feature live entertainment, refreshments, cash bar, behind the scenes tour of the Chateau’s fabulous wine cellar and a special raffle. Join chamber members for networking and fellowship. Cost: $10 for members, $20 for non-members. A reservation is necessary. For more information or to make a reservation, please call or e-mail the Chamber Caboose at 986-2720 or visit info@warwickcc.org. Holiday art show and sale The Warwick Art League is holding its second Annual Holiday Art Show and Sale, this Saturday, Dec. 6. The free event is open to the public and will run from 12-5 p.m. at Christ Church, 50 South St., in Warwick.