Solar energy is happening fast -- though here in RI we are missing out somewhat, due to a lack of state incentives to help make the costs competitive. Our state's biggest solar company, SolarWrights, is exanding like wildfire into neighboring states, while projects here fail to happen. Nonetheless, here is some bright news! SolarWrights is joining forces with Solar Works to create the biggest solar company in the Northeast. The new company brings together the region's leading designer and installer of commercial solar systems with the region's largest residential solar energy provider. Click on "More..." to read the full text of the company's news release. SolarWrights was also featured in a recent New York Times story about the solar biz.

In other news, Bernie's appliance stores in RI now will carry solar systems, the company said this week.

The national election has been soaking up a lot of our attention, but not to forget, we will also be voting for our local reps in the General Assembly on Nov. 4. These choices are vitally important -- when it comes to environmental action, most of the important stuff gets done at the local level. So when it's time to make that choice, having an endorsement from our local eco groups can be an important factor.

This week, Clean Water Action released its list of endorsed candidates for the General Assembly, click on "More..." for the details.

You can also find out more at this Thursday's Electoberfest, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Trinity Brewhouse in Providence. A $25 donation is suggested for this fundraising event, proceeds will benefit Clean Water Action’s work both to elect pro-environment candidates and to pass and enforce laws to protect Rhode Island’s environment. To RSVP or for more information, call Clean Water Action at (401) 331-6972. Call today to be an event sponsor listed on the invitation and in the program book for $50-1000.

If you've been in a store lately, you've noticed (right behind the Christmas ornaments!) loads of bags full of Halloween candy -- and maybe you've wondered, is there a greener, healthier choice to hand out for my neighborhood kids? And the answer is, Yes!

Glee Gum is made by a Rhode Island company, and contains chicle, the original ingredient from which all chewing gum was once made. The chicle sap is sustainably tapped from Sapodilla trees in the rainforests of Central America, much like collecting maple syrup. Every other gum now uses completely synthetic ingredients in its gum base, the company says. The gum packages are made of recycled cardboard  and are 100% biodegradable. The gum is gluten-free and certified vegetarian. Click here for more ideas for celebrating a Green Halloween. 

And for a cool alternative Halloween event, we can't imagine a better place to be for all ages than hanging out with the amazing folks at The Steelyard. This Halloween, they'll be offering a ceramics sale, a casting performance by the Iron Guild, bike art and costume building with Recycle-A-Bike, a pumpkin-flinging trebuchet, hot cider, snacks, music, and more.  Gates open at 6 on Oct. 31, admission is $5. For more info call 401-273-7101.