From the Greenpeace Newsletter
There's a storm brewing off the coast of Massachusetts that's threatening the future of wind energy for the entire country. In the face of global warming, there are a few powerful forces giving the cold shoulder to what could be America's first offshore wind farm - mostly because they believe it would blemish their million-dollar views.
The Cape Wind project would offset up to 113 million gallons of oil and would be like taking 175,000 cars off the road to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Even though more than 80% of Massachusetts residents support the project, a select few, including Senator Ted Kennedy who's compound would face the wind farm, are standing in the way of progress and jeopardizing the entire effort.
That's why we've hit the airwaves and targeted the opposition with television ads aired all across New England. If you haven't seen these ads, check them out.
But this fight isn't just local. We need YOUR help to get Congress on track and make offshore wind a reality.
Tell Congress to blow off millionaire complaints and do what's right for the country.
...It seems the fat, old, rich politicians are the ones always apposing the strategies that make the most sense...
http://www.comedycentral.com/motherload/player.jhtml?ml_video=91140&ml_collection=&ml_gateway=&ml_gateway_id=&ml_comedian=&ml_runtime=&ml_context=show&ml_origin_url=/shows/the_daily_show/videos/jason_jones/index.jhtml%3FplayVideo%3D91140&ml_playlist=&lnk=&is_large=true
.... A letter to Representative Markey
Dear Representative Markey
Congratulations on becoming Chairman of the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming; you have a great opportunity to lead the country on these critical issues.
The nation is watching a project proposed off Massachusetts, Cape Wind, which would offset up to 113 million gallons of oil and would be like taking 175,000 cars off the road in reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Over 70% of Massachusetts’ residents support Cape Wind and I urge you to join in their support of this important clean energy project.
As Chairman of the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming, you have a special obligation to support this visionary solution to global warming in your backyard. Please lead by example in Washington by publicly supporting Cape Wind. It’s time for our elected officials to “walk the walk” on global warming and energy independence.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
Ace Enders
Last night is in the category of "best nights of my life."
Last Spring, while in DC, I had the opportunity to see the Early November while in New York visiting Sarah. Unfortunately the event was sold out so her and I went to a different show. I shrugged it off, see as how I had already seen them twice before and thought that it wouldn't be the last opportunity I would have to see them. Little did I know it was.
The Early November was perhaps one of my favorite bands ever, mainly due to the lead singer, Ace Enders, who also had a side project called "I can make a mess like nobody's business." When the band broke up I was real sad at my lost opportunity and the possibility of Ace never making music again. Shortly afterward he announced doing some solo stuff and going on tour. Last night was his show in Buffalo and I went.
That's all for now, you get the picture. It was amazing seeing the one guy who inspires you to listen to the music you do and whose lyrics inspire you to think the way you do in a social setting.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Visiting Randy Kuhl and Fisher
Yesterday was the day I chose to drop off my Safe Climate Act packet to my Congressman. His office is right in Fairport, and naturally when I dropped it off I had to give it to a staff member. Even though this was the week they were supposed to be in their offices I gave it to a staff member anyway. I wasn't dissapointed, I figured something like that would happen. The only thing I could hope for was more people doing the same thing I did. That way it would get more attention and maybe he would pay more attention to its detail.
I also went to Fisher yesterday. I breathed in deep and took it all in. I can't believe that after 18 years of my life, knowing nothing but school in September, I won't be going back . There are a lot of emotions involved in this situation, but I feel like I made the right decision to take a year off.
I had a good talk with my old professor Paul. He gave me some good advice on how to allocate my time eviciently. One thing we talked about was attending a conference and how that would look on paper for graduate schools. He suggested dusting off the research project we did together and give the paper some more editing. I will definitely be taking this course of action not only to serve my purpose of getting into school, but also to gain a good taste of what I want to do in academics.
I also went to Fisher yesterday. I breathed in deep and took it all in. I can't believe that after 18 years of my life, knowing nothing but school in September, I won't be going back . There are a lot of emotions involved in this situation, but I feel like I made the right decision to take a year off.
I had a good talk with my old professor Paul. He gave me some good advice on how to allocate my time eviciently. One thing we talked about was attending a conference and how that would look on paper for graduate schools. He suggested dusting off the research project we did together and give the paper some more editing. I will definitely be taking this course of action not only to serve my purpose of getting into school, but also to gain a good taste of what I want to do in academics.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
The Mine in Utah - My Point of View
I have a lot of mixed feelings about what is going on with the mine in Utah, parallel with the mixed information provided by news reporters and CEO's. It is no doubt a tragedy and it's important to keep in mind those who died (people die everyday), but what gets me is how little attention is given to the cause and investigation of the collapse. So far I guess they have assumed it was caused by a "bump," or a natural shift of the earth's crust. Granted, I am no expert in the field of environmental science, but maybe this is a hint... maybe we shouldn't be mining? Maybe there are other ways to yield electricity other than burning coal and emitting green house gases? Na, couldn't be a hint.
The other opinion is it was caused by man himself. A bold statement at that, but a valid one since there is hardly enough information to determine an actual cause. It has been said that a method was used in the mine that literally takes down pillers designed to prop the mine against collapsing. Now the method is said to be safe by the agency that determines mine safety, but the entire situation seems sketchy. Why was this method used? The pillars were plowed down to find more coal. The answer from one individual on the news was "to make more money." The CEO of the energy company responsible was very defensive over this. He claims the method had absolutely no cause in the collapse.
To me, if this is the reason, it is capitalism at it's worst. Risk the lives of the hard-working to keep profit margins up? Did anyone ever think that digging up the earth for non-renewable resources might have been a bad idea? or that they might eventually run out and all we'll have left is a dug up earth with no more coal? I think it's time to find other ways to power our pointless commodities.
The other opinion is it was caused by man himself. A bold statement at that, but a valid one since there is hardly enough information to determine an actual cause. It has been said that a method was used in the mine that literally takes down pillers designed to prop the mine against collapsing. Now the method is said to be safe by the agency that determines mine safety, but the entire situation seems sketchy. Why was this method used? The pillars were plowed down to find more coal. The answer from one individual on the news was "to make more money." The CEO of the energy company responsible was very defensive over this. He claims the method had absolutely no cause in the collapse.
To me, if this is the reason, it is capitalism at it's worst. Risk the lives of the hard-working to keep profit margins up? Did anyone ever think that digging up the earth for non-renewable resources might have been a bad idea? or that they might eventually run out and all we'll have left is a dug up earth with no more coal? I think it's time to find other ways to power our pointless commodities.
Friday, August 17, 2007
We were friends and have grown distant from one another. But it is right that should be so; let us not dissemble and obscure it, as if it were something to be ashamed of. We are two ships, each of which has its destination and its course; our paths can cross and we can celebrate a feast togehter, as we did - and then the brave ships lay so peacefully in one harbour and under one sun that it might seem they had already reached their destination and both had one destination. But then the almighty power of our tasks again drove us apart, to different seas and different climes, and perhaps we shall never see one another again - or perhaps if we do we shall not recognize one another: different seas and sun have changed us! That we had to grow distant from one another is the law over us... There is probably a tremendous invisible curve and star orbit within which our so different paths and destinations may be included as tiny stretches of the way - let us raise ourselves to this thought! But our life is too short and our power of vision too weak for us to be more than friends in this sense of that exalted possibility. -And so let us believe in our friendship in the stars, even if we did have to be enemies on earth.
Friedrich Nietzsche - The Gay Science
Friedrich Nietzsche - The Gay Science
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
The Safe Climate Act
So in my last post I believe I talked a little but about the Safe Climate Act and how it will be passing through the house. Greenpeace has proudly been a large part in getting folks and environmentalists alike involved with this. If people aren't involved with activism, it's very easy. All it takes is one call to your representatives office, then congrats.. you can call yourself an activist. Actions are great, but they can only go so far as letting people around you know your stance on certain issues. If you really want to make a difference, get involved in the government that surrounds you. My reprentative is John Kuhl, which is the first step in getting involved... knowing your congressman.
The Safe Climate Act calls for many restrictions for many different things to basically halt greenhouse gas emissions. Here is a very rough summary of it. If people think this isn't enough, I would encourage some further research on it. For instance, I wasn't too sure I agreed with the whole "cap and trade" program. I remember in a bunch of classes in school (economics major) that I didn't agree with it. It seems, however, that in a capitalist society, there aren't many other options. The fact is, the cap and trade program for emissions does a lot of good things. So after looking into it more, I don't exactly agree with it, since it is more or less making the environment something that is bought and traded for, but I see it as the only option. In my opinion we should put a cap on all corporations and not make options for them to trade. By giving them a right to emit greenhouse gasses because it goes long with a company's "personal liberty to pollute," doesn't exactly work toward an ultimate goal. I also suppose it might fight against the idea of democracy. It's "good enough" I suppose.
Here is a link to a packat you can deliver to your congressman. FIND OUT WHO HE/SHE IS!
https://secureusa.greenpeace.org/students/kits/files/23/Lobby_Packet.pdf
Summary of the Safe Climate Act of 2006
The Safe Climate Act of 2006 sets targets and requires the actions that will be necessary to avoid
dangerous, irreversible warming of our planet.
• Science tells us that we face a grave risk of irreversible and devastating global warming if
global temperatures increase by more than 3.6°F.
• The bill sets greenhouse gas emissions targets that aim to keep temperatures below the
danger point. The level of emissions is frozen in 2010 and then gradually reduced each year
through 2050.
• The bill achieves these targets through a flexible economy-wide cap-and-trade program for
greenhouse gas emissions, along with measures to advance technology and reduce emissions
through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and cleaner cars.
Targets
The Safe Climate Act freezes U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2010, at the 2009 levels.
Beginning in 2011, it cuts emissions by roughly 2% per year, reaching 1990 emissions levels by
2020. After 2020, it cuts emissions by roughly 5% per year. By 2050, emissions will be 80%
lower than in 1990. This goal is similar to goals that have been announced by United Kingdom
Prime Minister Tony Blair and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Actions
The Safe Climate Act is implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
The Safe Climate Act directs EPA to issue regulations sufficient to achieve the emissions targets
through the combination of a cap-and-trade program and other measures.
The bill directs EPA to set a cap on greenhouse gas emissions from the largest polluters and
allow the polluters to meet the cap by buying and selling emissions allowances.
• Allowances are distributed according to a plan developed by the President, with an
opportunity for Congress to ratify or modify the plan.
• Proceeds from auctioning allowances are deposited in the “Climate Reinvestment
Fund.”
• Revenues in the fund are dedicated to maximizing the public benefit and promoting
economic growth, including supporting technology research and development,
compensating consumers for any energy cost increases, providing transition
assistance for affected workers and regions, and protecting against harm from climate
change, such as safeguarding water supplies, protecting against hurricanes, and
mitigating harm to fish and wildlife habitat.
The bill directs EPA to set standards for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles
that are at least as stringent as the current California standards. EPA must tighten these
standards in 2014 and periodically thereafter.
The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish national standards requiring an increasing
proportion of electricity to be generated from renewable energy sources, reaching 20% of retail
electricity sold in 2020.
The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish national standards requiring utilities to
obtain, each year, 1% of their energy supplies through energy efficiency improvements at
customer facilities. These savings would accumulate each year through 2020.
National Academies Review
The bill directs the National Academy of Sciences and the National Research Council to review,
every five years, our progress toward avoiding dangerous climate change. If the National
Academies find that dangerous global warming is likely, they must identify the reductions
needed and recommend additional national and international actions to achieve the reductions.
The Safe Climate Act calls for many restrictions for many different things to basically halt greenhouse gas emissions. Here is a very rough summary of it. If people think this isn't enough, I would encourage some further research on it. For instance, I wasn't too sure I agreed with the whole "cap and trade" program. I remember in a bunch of classes in school (economics major) that I didn't agree with it. It seems, however, that in a capitalist society, there aren't many other options. The fact is, the cap and trade program for emissions does a lot of good things. So after looking into it more, I don't exactly agree with it, since it is more or less making the environment something that is bought and traded for, but I see it as the only option. In my opinion we should put a cap on all corporations and not make options for them to trade. By giving them a right to emit greenhouse gasses because it goes long with a company's "personal liberty to pollute," doesn't exactly work toward an ultimate goal. I also suppose it might fight against the idea of democracy. It's "good enough" I suppose.
Here is a link to a packat you can deliver to your congressman. FIND OUT WHO HE/SHE IS!
https://secureusa.greenpeace.org/students/kits/files/23/Lobby_Packet.pdf
Summary of the Safe Climate Act of 2006
The Safe Climate Act of 2006 sets targets and requires the actions that will be necessary to avoid
dangerous, irreversible warming of our planet.
• Science tells us that we face a grave risk of irreversible and devastating global warming if
global temperatures increase by more than 3.6°F.
• The bill sets greenhouse gas emissions targets that aim to keep temperatures below the
danger point. The level of emissions is frozen in 2010 and then gradually reduced each year
through 2050.
• The bill achieves these targets through a flexible economy-wide cap-and-trade program for
greenhouse gas emissions, along with measures to advance technology and reduce emissions
through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and cleaner cars.
Targets
The Safe Climate Act freezes U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2010, at the 2009 levels.
Beginning in 2011, it cuts emissions by roughly 2% per year, reaching 1990 emissions levels by
2020. After 2020, it cuts emissions by roughly 5% per year. By 2050, emissions will be 80%
lower than in 1990. This goal is similar to goals that have been announced by United Kingdom
Prime Minister Tony Blair and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Actions
The Safe Climate Act is implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
The Safe Climate Act directs EPA to issue regulations sufficient to achieve the emissions targets
through the combination of a cap-and-trade program and other measures.
The bill directs EPA to set a cap on greenhouse gas emissions from the largest polluters and
allow the polluters to meet the cap by buying and selling emissions allowances.
• Allowances are distributed according to a plan developed by the President, with an
opportunity for Congress to ratify or modify the plan.
• Proceeds from auctioning allowances are deposited in the “Climate Reinvestment
Fund.”
• Revenues in the fund are dedicated to maximizing the public benefit and promoting
economic growth, including supporting technology research and development,
compensating consumers for any energy cost increases, providing transition
assistance for affected workers and regions, and protecting against harm from climate
change, such as safeguarding water supplies, protecting against hurricanes, and
mitigating harm to fish and wildlife habitat.
The bill directs EPA to set standards for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles
that are at least as stringent as the current California standards. EPA must tighten these
standards in 2014 and periodically thereafter.
The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish national standards requiring an increasing
proportion of electricity to be generated from renewable energy sources, reaching 20% of retail
electricity sold in 2020.
The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish national standards requiring utilities to
obtain, each year, 1% of their energy supplies through energy efficiency improvements at
customer facilities. These savings would accumulate each year through 2020.
National Academies Review
The bill directs the National Academy of Sciences and the National Research Council to review,
every five years, our progress toward avoiding dangerous climate change. If the National
Academies find that dangerous global warming is likely, they must identify the reductions
needed and recommend additional national and international actions to achieve the reductions.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Vacation and Warped
My vacation is over. It is sad but realistic. Most of it was spent on the road, which was what I intended. I enjoy road trips and took this vacation as one. I drove all day last Tuesday, spent Wedensday relaxing, and drove all day Thursday. Thursday evening I camped out with Ryan Batzel, Josh, Rob and other friends. The next day was warped tour, which was why we were camping in the first place. It's the most fun day of the year, it reminded me of house fun being a kid and being immature can be.
The house I helped with in Honeoye will be dedicated sometime in September. I hope I can attend it. With the next project I hope I can get some people together to help out with a fundraiser for it. It should be a lot of fun. I don't know where the next house will be, but I know my friend Becky Steele wants to hold some sort of carnival as a fundraiser. I thought that was a fantastic idea. I hope to actually get a group together this time instead of going alone. Over the next couple days, baring my communication with Ms. Steele I hope to get a letter written to distribute to those I think might be interested in around the Starbucks community.
The Safe Climate Act... Call your congressman. Tell him/her about the dangers of global warming. Tell him/her to pass the Safe Climate Act. My next blog I will list the details of the Act but now I hardly have the time. I also hope to have pictures up from my vacation in the bext blog.
Peace.
The house I helped with in Honeoye will be dedicated sometime in September. I hope I can attend it. With the next project I hope I can get some people together to help out with a fundraiser for it. It should be a lot of fun. I don't know where the next house will be, but I know my friend Becky Steele wants to hold some sort of carnival as a fundraiser. I thought that was a fantastic idea. I hope to actually get a group together this time instead of going alone. Over the next couple days, baring my communication with Ms. Steele I hope to get a letter written to distribute to those I think might be interested in around the Starbucks community.
The Safe Climate Act... Call your congressman. Tell him/her about the dangers of global warming. Tell him/her to pass the Safe Climate Act. My next blog I will list the details of the Act but now I hardly have the time. I also hope to have pictures up from my vacation in the bext blog.
Peace.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Honeoye Build and other random thoughts.
Ah, where to start. A few weeks ago I spent a Saturday putting up dry wall on a house in Honeoye. The house was in a beautiful area almost on Honeoye Lake. The house will go to a mother and daughter of Honeoye. I was happy to help out for the day. We had a large group of people who got the whole house dry walled in about 5 hours.
I loved helping out with the Ontario country chapter of Habitat for Humanity. With the help of my friend Becky Steele, I want to get a group of fellow volunteers from work and such to help with the fundraiser for the next build. October I have been told will be the best month. In September I guess a group of Starbuckians are going to do a beach clean-up project in Charlotte. I will definitely be taking part in that.
I've had a lot on my mind in the past weeks. News and politics, friends and summer, future and present. I'm settled in quite well with both jobs. It will be even better in the next few weeks after I split the time more truly. I wish I had more to say but I've been working so much lately. Most of what's been on my mind has been drawn out by work.
After Friday I should have an interesting entry to post. I'll be taking my only vacation of the summer, a road trip for the most part, but to the outerbanks in Carolina. The same day I get back I'll be camping before warped tour. It's gonna be a good time and I'll hopefully take some good pictures.
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