12/31/2009
12/30/2009
12/29/2009
Coal Country at Sandhills CC
http://www.sustainablesandhills.org/docs/CoalCountryScreeninginJanuary.pdf
Coal-Free in Kentucky
http://www.grist.org/article/copenhagen-at-home-coal-free-future-begins-in-kentucky
Too Clean
Disinfectants 'train' superbugs
Disinfectants could effectively train bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics, research suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/8427399.stm
Disinfectants could effectively train bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics, research suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/8427399.stm
12/27/2009
12/24/2009
Not Too Late to Donate
http://www.oursoil.org/sites/default/files/newsletter/SOIL%20Holiday%20Appeal%202009.pdf
12/20/2009
Dismantle Agribusiness to Save Rainforests
Environmental and Indigenous Activists Criticize Proposed Deal to Save Rainforests
On Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the Obama administration would commit $1 billion over the next three years toward a proposed global scheme to preserve tropical forests. It's called REDD, or Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation. As countries attempt to hammer out a final deal before the end of the summit, Anjali Kamat files a report featuring a range of concerns over what this UN-backed proposal could mean for the future of the world’s rainforests and forest dwellers.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/environmental_and_indigenous_activists_criticize_proposed
On Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the Obama administration would commit $1 billion over the next three years toward a proposed global scheme to preserve tropical forests. It's called REDD, or Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation. As countries attempt to hammer out a final deal before the end of the summit, Anjali Kamat files a report featuring a range of concerns over what this UN-backed proposal could mean for the future of the world’s rainforests and forest dwellers.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/environmental_and_indigenous_activists_criticize_proposed
Vegetarians Cut Emissions
"The Countries that Can Really Make a Difference Have Not Really Got Sensitive Enough to the Plight of the Poorest of the Poor" - IPCC Chair Pachauri
We speak with Rajendra Pachauri, the chair of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change about the climate summit, the role of developed countries, and why he promotes vegetarianism as a way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pachauri and the IPCC won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/the_countries_that_can_really_make
We speak with Rajendra Pachauri, the chair of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change about the climate summit, the role of developed countries, and why he promotes vegetarianism as a way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pachauri and the IPCC won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/the_countries_that_can_really_make
Death for Millions of Africans
Chief G-77 Negotiator Lumumba Stanislaus Di-Aping
US-Backed Proposals Mean Death for Millions of Africans * With the talks entering the final twenty-four hours, a leaked UN document—exposed yesterday on Democracy Now! with French news website Mediapart—has created a firestorm of controversy here at the summit. The UN memo determines that global temperatures would rise by an alarming three degrees Celsius, or 5.4 degrees Fahrenheit, under the current emissions targets being discussed. We speak to Lumumba Stanislaus Di-Aping, the chief negotiator for the G-77, the largest developing country bloc represented at the COP15.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/chief_g77_negotiator_lumumba_stanislaus_di
US-Backed Proposals Mean Death for Millions of Africans * With the talks entering the final twenty-four hours, a leaked UN document—exposed yesterday on Democracy Now! with French news website Mediapart—has created a firestorm of controversy here at the summit. The UN memo determines that global temperatures would rise by an alarming three degrees Celsius, or 5.4 degrees Fahrenheit, under the current emissions targets being discussed. We speak to Lumumba Stanislaus Di-Aping, the chief negotiator for the G-77, the largest developing country bloc represented at the COP15.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/chief_g77_negotiator_lumumba_stanislaus_di
John Cowan at Rooster's Wife, Dec. 20
Merry Merry Christmas from the Rooster's Wife and the John Cowan Band
We are very happy to be sharing the last Sunday of Advent with John and his fine band, Jeff Autry, John Frazier, Shad Cobb, and Bryan Larrance.
It's put the merry right square and center, on stage at Poplar Knight Spot
114 Knight Street 1 block east of US 1 in downtown Aberdeen, NC 28315
(910)944-7502 www.theroosterswife.org
General admission, $15. in advance, $18. day of show, after 11 am. Tickets available on line by credit and debit cards, at the door with cash or check. Sunday, December 20, 2009 8 pm, doors open at 7 pm. On line purchasers may choose the will call option to save ink and paper.
Consider a membership or sponsorship of music in honor of your favorite music lover. Details available at Poplar Knight Spot, or by telephone (910)944-7502 Gifts of music are always appreciated, and last longer than candy or soap. Let us wrap up a stack of cds for you to put under the tree !
Thanks for supporting LIVE LOCAL music! It makes the world a better place .
We are very happy to be sharing the last Sunday of Advent with John and his fine band, Jeff Autry, John Frazier, Shad Cobb, and Bryan Larrance.
It's put the merry right square and center, on stage at Poplar Knight Spot
114 Knight Street 1 block east of US 1 in downtown Aberdeen, NC 28315
(910)944-7502 www.theroosterswife.org
General admission, $15. in advance, $18. day of show, after 11 am. Tickets available on line by credit and debit cards, at the door with cash or check. Sunday, December 20, 2009 8 pm, doors open at 7 pm. On line purchasers may choose the will call option to save ink and paper.
Consider a membership or sponsorship of music in honor of your favorite music lover. Details available at Poplar Knight Spot, or by telephone (910)944-7502 Gifts of music are always appreciated, and last longer than candy or soap. Let us wrap up a stack of cds for you to put under the tree !
Thanks for supporting LIVE LOCAL music! It makes the world a better place .
12/19/2009
Death to Your Garden
Contaminated Compost: Coming Soon to a Store Near You
9/4/2009
By Barbara Pleasant
In Santa Rosa, Calif., the folks at Grab n’ Grow have been making compost and planting mixes for 25 years, using organic materials generated in Sonoma County. In 2002, the company detected residues of a potent herbicide called clopyralid in a batch of compost. The next year, Grab n’ Grow manager Don Liepold and his wife saw the herbicide’s trail of destruction in their raised bed organic garden — lettuce that refused to grow, curled and wilted peas, and stunted, gnarled tomato leaves.
As we reported in July 2009, clopyralid and its close cousin, aminopyralid, easily persist, sometimes for YEARS!, in hay, manure and compost. When contaminated materials are used in food gardens, tomatoes, beans and other sensitive crops develop curled foliage that looks like a disease, if they grow at all.
Both herbicides are manufactured by DowAgrosciences, which seems to have no moral or ethical problem selling products which clearly are polluting the public compost stream. Meanwhile, aminopyralid pesticides have been pulled from shelves in the United Kingdom. Liepold, the Rachel Carson Council and MOTHER EARTH NEWS think the U.S. EPA should take the same action here.
“I have been testing and detecting herbicide residues and thus rejecting cow manure, horse manure, turkey mulch, rice hulls, mushroom compost and yard trimmings,” says Grab n’ Grow manager Don Liepold. “I spent $20,000 in lab fees in 2008, and am on the same track for 2009,” he says.
It is extremely difficult to keep contaminated materials out of commercial compost. “One load of contaminated grass clipplings can ruin a batch of compost,” says Eric Philip of Anatek Labs in Moscow, Idaho. Philip has seen so many positive tests for clopyralid residues in compost that he would not use untested compost in his own garden.
“When folks have plants die in their home gardens, their first assumption is that they did something wrong,” Philip says. But with pyralid-laced commercial compost becoming more common, contaminated soil amendments are often to blame.
The source of pyralid pollution can be impossible to trace. For example, a horse stable may use hay brought in from a neighboring state, without knowing that it is laced with pyralid herbicides. If the horse’s manure or stable litter ends up in a garden, disaster is ready to strike. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Liepold stopped making one of Grab n’ Grow’s most popular products, Mango Mulch, for more than a year because he could not find an uncontaminated manure supply. Now he’s getting it from two local organic dairies.
Testing for contamination is a slow, painstaking process that comes at a steep price of $350 (or more) per sample, so most commercially-made compost is not tested.
Both of these herbicides were approved by the EPA before their persistence in compost was known, and before lab tests existed that could detect residues at damaging levels. We think approval of these pesticides should be revoked before the damage gets worse.
To express your concern about this hidden danger to your garden, write to your senators and congressional representatives to make your voice heard. You can also contact Rick Keigwin, director of the EPA’s pesticide review division.
See our earlier report: Milestone Herbicide Creates Killer Compost for lots more background on this issue. [Mother Earth News]
9/4/2009
By Barbara Pleasant
In Santa Rosa, Calif., the folks at Grab n’ Grow have been making compost and planting mixes for 25 years, using organic materials generated in Sonoma County. In 2002, the company detected residues of a potent herbicide called clopyralid in a batch of compost. The next year, Grab n’ Grow manager Don Liepold and his wife saw the herbicide’s trail of destruction in their raised bed organic garden — lettuce that refused to grow, curled and wilted peas, and stunted, gnarled tomato leaves.
As we reported in July 2009, clopyralid and its close cousin, aminopyralid, easily persist, sometimes for YEARS!, in hay, manure and compost. When contaminated materials are used in food gardens, tomatoes, beans and other sensitive crops develop curled foliage that looks like a disease, if they grow at all.
Both herbicides are manufactured by DowAgrosciences, which seems to have no moral or ethical problem selling products which clearly are polluting the public compost stream. Meanwhile, aminopyralid pesticides have been pulled from shelves in the United Kingdom. Liepold, the Rachel Carson Council and MOTHER EARTH NEWS think the U.S. EPA should take the same action here.
“I have been testing and detecting herbicide residues and thus rejecting cow manure, horse manure, turkey mulch, rice hulls, mushroom compost and yard trimmings,” says Grab n’ Grow manager Don Liepold. “I spent $20,000 in lab fees in 2008, and am on the same track for 2009,” he says.
It is extremely difficult to keep contaminated materials out of commercial compost. “One load of contaminated grass clipplings can ruin a batch of compost,” says Eric Philip of Anatek Labs in Moscow, Idaho. Philip has seen so many positive tests for clopyralid residues in compost that he would not use untested compost in his own garden.
“When folks have plants die in their home gardens, their first assumption is that they did something wrong,” Philip says. But with pyralid-laced commercial compost becoming more common, contaminated soil amendments are often to blame.
The source of pyralid pollution can be impossible to trace. For example, a horse stable may use hay brought in from a neighboring state, without knowing that it is laced with pyralid herbicides. If the horse’s manure or stable litter ends up in a garden, disaster is ready to strike. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Liepold stopped making one of Grab n’ Grow’s most popular products, Mango Mulch, for more than a year because he could not find an uncontaminated manure supply. Now he’s getting it from two local organic dairies.
Testing for contamination is a slow, painstaking process that comes at a steep price of $350 (or more) per sample, so most commercially-made compost is not tested.
Both of these herbicides were approved by the EPA before their persistence in compost was known, and before lab tests existed that could detect residues at damaging levels. We think approval of these pesticides should be revoked before the damage gets worse.
To express your concern about this hidden danger to your garden, write to your senators and congressional representatives to make your voice heard. You can also contact Rick Keigwin, director of the EPA’s pesticide review division.
See our earlier report: Milestone Herbicide Creates Killer Compost for lots more background on this issue. [Mother Earth News]
12/18/2009
Long but Excellent Article on Maltreatment of Soil
http://www.soilandhealth.org/01aglibrary/010127yeomansIII/010127ch14.html
12/17/2009
April Fools in Pinehurst, Dec. 19
The April Fools are playing Saturday, December 19 at the Darling House Pub in downtown Pinehurst. Come out for a pint or a meal at this cozy pub. The April Fools begin at 8:00 and play until Midnight. CD's available for your last minute Christmas shopping.
See you there!
David, Allen, Steven, and Sherman
See you there!
David, Allen, Steven, and Sherman
Friday Flick at Raven's Wing, Dec. 18
Enjoy homemade snacks while watching:
"The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED"
Movie starts at 7:00 pm Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is appreciated!
The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED
2007 NR 74 minutes
Hailed "the hottest gathering in the world" by Wired magazine, TED (Technology Entertainment Design) is an annual event where an eclectic group of brilliant minds exchange bold ideas for the future. Actress Daphne Zuniga is your host on this all-access tour of the conference. Guests include former Vice President Al Gore, musician Peter Gabriel, environmentalist Majora Carter, as well as comedians, authors and innovators from around the world.
"The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED"
Movie starts at 7:00 pm Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is appreciated!
The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED
2007 NR 74 minutes
Hailed "the hottest gathering in the world" by Wired magazine, TED (Technology Entertainment Design) is an annual event where an eclectic group of brilliant minds exchange bold ideas for the future. Actress Daphne Zuniga is your host on this all-access tour of the conference. Guests include former Vice President Al Gore, musician Peter Gabriel, environmentalist Majora Carter, as well as comedians, authors and innovators from around the world.
12/16/2009
Copenhagen Via Democracynow
Indigenous Peoples of Canada March on Canadian Embassy in Copenhagen to Protest Tar Sands
Canada is the largest supplier of oil to the United States, and most of it comes from the Alberta tar sands. Described as the world's biggest single industrial source of carbon emissions, the tar sands have drawn widespread protest and civil disobedience from environmentalists. On Tuesday, as climate delegates met across town at the Bella Center, a protest led by indigenous peoples of Canada was held outside the Canadian embassy. Democracy Now!'s John Hamilton files a report.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/15/indigenous_peoples_of_canada_march_on
Cap & Trade: A Critical Look at Carbon Trading
Will the expansion of carbon emissions trading help stop global warming or just create a new market for Wall Street to make billions? We air excerpts of Annie Leonard's The Story of Cap and Trade and speak with Larry Lohmann and Frank Ackerman.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/15/cap_trade_a_critical_look_at
Canada is the largest supplier of oil to the United States, and most of it comes from the Alberta tar sands. Described as the world's biggest single industrial source of carbon emissions, the tar sands have drawn widespread protest and civil disobedience from environmentalists. On Tuesday, as climate delegates met across town at the Bella Center, a protest led by indigenous peoples of Canada was held outside the Canadian embassy. Democracy Now!'s John Hamilton files a report.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/15/indigenous_peoples_of_canada_march_on
Cap & Trade: A Critical Look at Carbon Trading
Will the expansion of carbon emissions trading help stop global warming or just create a new market for Wall Street to make billions? We air excerpts of Annie Leonard's The Story of Cap and Trade and speak with Larry Lohmann and Frank Ackerman.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/15/cap_trade_a_critical_look_at
12/14/2009
Polluters Must Pay, democracynow.org
Indian Environmentalist Vandana Shiva:
It Is Time for the US to Stop Seeing Itself as a Donor and Recognizing Itself as a Polluter, a Polluter who Must Pay" The world-renowned Indian environmental leader and thinker Vandana Shiva spoke before thousands at Saturday's protest in Copenhagen. On Sunday, I spoke with her at Klimaforum, the People's Climate Summit, and asked for her assessment of President Obama and what he represents in the climate change talks.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/14/indian_environmentalist_vandana_shiva_it_is
It Is Time for the US to Stop Seeing Itself as a Donor and Recognizing Itself as a Polluter, a Polluter who Must Pay" The world-renowned Indian environmental leader and thinker Vandana Shiva spoke before thousands at Saturday's protest in Copenhagen. On Sunday, I spoke with her at Klimaforum, the People's Climate Summit, and asked for her assessment of President Obama and what he represents in the climate change talks.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/14/indian_environmentalist_vandana_shiva_it_is
Raven's Wing December Schedule
Wednesday, December 16 - Sangha Meditation In the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh
9:30 am - 11:30 am. Donations accepted.
(This is a reccuring event each Wednesday morning.)
Friday, December 18 - Documentary Night
Enjoy homemade snacks while watching:
"The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED"
Movie starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
Saturday, December 19 - Raven's Wing Open House
Come see what the Healing Center is all about!
Sample Raven's Wing products, see works by Red Spring Artist Emily Whittle. Find last minute gifts and stocking stuffers!
Also, join in or observe making biodynamic preparations next door with Farm Up the Street, approximate hours 10 am - 2:30 pm.
12:00 - 5:00 pm
Friday, December 25 - Raven's Wing Christmas
Join our family for a potluck Christmas dinner and celebration!
Yummy local foods, camaraderie, and door prizes!
4:30 pm until ?
9:30 am - 11:30 am. Donations accepted.
(This is a reccuring event each Wednesday morning.)
Friday, December 18 - Documentary Night
Enjoy homemade snacks while watching:
"The Future We Will Create: Inside the World of TED"
Movie starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
Saturday, December 19 - Raven's Wing Open House
Come see what the Healing Center is all about!
Sample Raven's Wing products, see works by Red Spring Artist Emily Whittle. Find last minute gifts and stocking stuffers!
Also, join in or observe making biodynamic preparations next door with Farm Up the Street, approximate hours 10 am - 2:30 pm.
12:00 - 5:00 pm
Friday, December 25 - Raven's Wing Christmas
Join our family for a potluck Christmas dinner and celebration!
Yummy local foods, camaraderie, and door prizes!
4:30 pm until ?
12/13/2009
It's a Gas
China head opens Kazakh pipeline
China's President Hu unveils the Kazakh section of a 7,000km (4,300 miles) natural gas pipeline joining Central Asia to China.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/8410369.stm
China's President Hu unveils the Kazakh section of a 7,000km (4,300 miles) natural gas pipeline joining Central Asia to China.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/8410369.stm
12/11/2009
Rooster's Wife, Dec. 13, Aberdeen
Six words you need to know, music lovers:
Alice Gerrard, Laurelyn Dossett, Diana Jones.
They perform in Aberdeen this Sunday, Dec, 13, at 7:30.
Alice Gerrard, Laurelyn Dossett, Diana Jones.
They perform in Aberdeen this Sunday, Dec, 13, at 7:30.
Friday Flick at Raven's Wing
Friday, December 11th- Documentary Night
Enjoy homemade snacks while watching:
"The Beautiful Truth"
(2008) NR
This documentary follows the journey of Garrett Kroschel, an animal-loving teenager raised in Alaska. After reading a book by Dr. Max Gerson, Garrett is inspired to investigate its premise that diet can cure cancer and other diseases. Garrett travels across the country, visiting with physicians, scientists and cancer survivors to discuss Gerson Therapy -- and Gerson's claim that the medical industry has suppressed natural cancer cures for years.
Movie starts at 7:00 pm
Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
Enjoy homemade snacks while watching:
"The Beautiful Truth"
(2008) NR
This documentary follows the journey of Garrett Kroschel, an animal-loving teenager raised in Alaska. After reading a book by Dr. Max Gerson, Garrett is inspired to investigate its premise that diet can cure cancer and other diseases. Garrett travels across the country, visiting with physicians, scientists and cancer survivors to discuss Gerson Therapy -- and Gerson's claim that the medical industry has suppressed natural cancer cures for years.
Movie starts at 7:00 pm
Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to get a seat.
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
12/10/2009
Tonight, Dec. 10, Moore County Commissioners Meet on PUD
[From Save Our Sandhills (SOS) Attendance Dec. 10 important!]
SAVE A UNIQUE PINE FOREST
Subject: Ventures “Pine Forest” subdivision between Highway 211 and Highway 73 in West.
Where will water come from with a 15- to 20-year timetable for total buildout?
Will water from other counties still keep flowing?
What happens during droughts?
How will herbicides and pesticides be kept from seeping into Nick’s Creek?
How will traffic be handled on local roads?
What are the real facts concerning the wastewater treatment plant – its safety, odor, maintenance?
In Cumberland County, documented problems have occurred. The Moore County Public Works has only recently developed standards and has no practical experience.
With so much area allotted for houses, businesses, roads, and golf courses, how will animals have corridors and native plants flourish?
This project is huge. It is 1,799 acres, of which 1,623 are being requested to be rezoned. This includes Nicks Creek, ultimately part of Carthage’s and Whispering Pines’ water supplies, which runs through the middle of the entire property from west to east, with small tributaries feeding it throughout the property. In all, a great deal of wetlands abound, all of which are crucial to the welfare of birds and other wildlife, as well as to rare and unusual native plants.
Planned are two separate communities – a resort hotel and residential community with a neighborhood retail center, as well as a gated residential community. These communities will include:
• Up to 890 residential and/or hotel rooms
• 2 championship golf courses and a short course
• Golf clubhouses for each course
• A resort spa, conference center, and fitness center
• A retail and office center.
Please attend the Planning Board meeting on December 10 at 6 P.M., Moore County Historic Courthouse – 2nd Floor
To learn more about Save Our Sandhills, please see www.saveoursandhills.org, call 910-235-3862 or 910-281-5271, or request a brochure at P.O. Box 893, Pinehurst, NC 28370.
SAVE A UNIQUE PINE FOREST
Subject: Ventures “Pine Forest” subdivision between Highway 211 and Highway 73 in West.
Where will water come from with a 15- to 20-year timetable for total buildout?
Will water from other counties still keep flowing?
What happens during droughts?
How will herbicides and pesticides be kept from seeping into Nick’s Creek?
How will traffic be handled on local roads?
What are the real facts concerning the wastewater treatment plant – its safety, odor, maintenance?
In Cumberland County, documented problems have occurred. The Moore County Public Works has only recently developed standards and has no practical experience.
With so much area allotted for houses, businesses, roads, and golf courses, how will animals have corridors and native plants flourish?
This project is huge. It is 1,799 acres, of which 1,623 are being requested to be rezoned. This includes Nicks Creek, ultimately part of Carthage’s and Whispering Pines’ water supplies, which runs through the middle of the entire property from west to east, with small tributaries feeding it throughout the property. In all, a great deal of wetlands abound, all of which are crucial to the welfare of birds and other wildlife, as well as to rare and unusual native plants.
Planned are two separate communities – a resort hotel and residential community with a neighborhood retail center, as well as a gated residential community. These communities will include:
• Up to 890 residential and/or hotel rooms
• 2 championship golf courses and a short course
• Golf clubhouses for each course
• A resort spa, conference center, and fitness center
• A retail and office center.
Please attend the Planning Board meeting on December 10 at 6 P.M., Moore County Historic Courthouse – 2nd Floor
To learn more about Save Our Sandhills, please see www.saveoursandhills.org, call 910-235-3862 or 910-281-5271, or request a brochure at P.O. Box 893, Pinehurst, NC 28370.
12/09/2009
UN Summit, Rich vs. Poor
Draft text divides climate summit
Documents leaked at the UN climate summit reveal divisions between rich and developing nations over the shape of a possible new deal.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8402502.stm
Documents leaked at the UN climate summit reveal divisions between rich and developing nations over the shape of a possible new deal.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8402502.stm
12/08/2009
CropMobbing, Mebane, NC
http://cropmob.org/2008/12/08/mob-number-two-garden-building-at-stone-house-mebane-nc#comment-43
12/07/2009
United States' Identity Crisis
http://www.statesman.com/life/content/life/stories/books/2009/12/06/1206hedgesweb.html
12/06/2009
UN Rejects Climate Change Sceptics
UN hits back at climate sceptics
The UN's official panel on climate change rejects sceptics' claims that the case for human influence has been exaggerated.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/8397265.stm
The UN's official panel on climate change rejects sceptics' claims that the case for human influence has been exaggerated.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/8397265.stm
12/04/2009
Geithner, Bernanke, Financial Crisis
Eliot Spitzer: Geithner, Bernanke "Complicit" in Financial Crisis and Should Go
In an extended interview, we speak with former New York governor Eliot Spitzer about the financial crisis and how it was handled by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. Bernanke and Geithner "actually built and participated in creating the structure that now has collapsed," Spitzer says and calls on them to be replaced.
Spitzer also talks about the scandal that erupted last year that forced him to resign as governor. "I have no doubt there were many people who were opposed to me, very powerful forces, who were happy to see me go," Spitzer says. "Whether they participated, I'll let others figure that out. I resigned because of what I did."
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/4/eliot_spitzer_geithner_bernanke_complicit_in
In an extended interview, we speak with former New York governor Eliot Spitzer about the financial crisis and how it was handled by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. Bernanke and Geithner "actually built and participated in creating the structure that now has collapsed," Spitzer says and calls on them to be replaced.
Spitzer also talks about the scandal that erupted last year that forced him to resign as governor. "I have no doubt there were many people who were opposed to me, very powerful forces, who were happy to see me go," Spitzer says. "Whether they participated, I'll let others figure that out. I resigned because of what I did."
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/4/eliot_spitzer_geithner_bernanke_complicit_in
Ode Online Edition on Climate Change
http://www.solutionsweneednow.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/TheSolutionsWeNeedNow-Edit-Lineup.pdf
Awakened Heart Center Schedule
Happy holidays to all of you!
BODHI DAY: This Tuesday, Dec. 8, is the day Japanese Buddhists celebrate as the day Gautama Siddhartha of the Shakya clan awakened from the trance of suffering, illusion and delusion, and became The Buddha, The Awakened One. One of the Buddha's most important realizations is that all sentient beings have Buddha Nature. Why don't some of us know this? Because we identify with our mind and socially constructed self instead of resting as our true nature.
The Awakened Heart Center will be CLOSED from Thursday, Dec. 24 until Monday Night Meditation on Monday, Jan. 4.
PLEASE NOTE: All Hatha Yoga Classes will continue in the new year beginning the week of Jan. 4. Classes will continue as long as we are here in Southern Pines.
MONDAY NIGHT MEDITATION 7 - 8:30 p.m. Dec 7 $10.00 Please talk to Tom before attending MNM for the first time
DISCUSSION: DYNAMIC AWARENESS - the integration of the subconscious, conscious and superconscious minds.
CONSCIOUS LIVING CLASS Dec. 8 (Bodhi Day!) 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. $10.00 Everyone is welcome.
DISCUSSION: CLARITY OF INTENT. Clarity of Intent is what brings a possibility into reality. The clearer your intent, the clearer the outcome.
Each Conscious Living Class ends with deep hypnotic relaxation and powerful, positive affirmations.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEDITATION Dec. 9 7 p.m. FREE! EVERYONE IS WELCOME.
DISCUSSION: THE INCREDIBLE LIFE AND TEACHING OF J.KRISHNAMURTI, THE RELUCTANT MESSIAH. This talk may continue into the next week or so. Krishnamurti was raised to be the Messiah of the New Age, the Maitreya Buddha, and was the head of the Order of the Star. But at the height of his power, fame and fortune, he resigned and gave an incredible speech that is of tremendous value to all people deeply interested in the truth. Tom will read this speech during the program. (Don't worry! It isn't long!) "Truth is a Pathless Land."
Books by and about Krishnamurti are for sale for $1.00 in the bookstore.
Tom Thompson
The Awakened Heart Center for Conscious Living
130 North Ashe Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
910.692.0995
www.theawakenedheartcenter.com
BODHI DAY: This Tuesday, Dec. 8, is the day Japanese Buddhists celebrate as the day Gautama Siddhartha of the Shakya clan awakened from the trance of suffering, illusion and delusion, and became The Buddha, The Awakened One. One of the Buddha's most important realizations is that all sentient beings have Buddha Nature. Why don't some of us know this? Because we identify with our mind and socially constructed self instead of resting as our true nature.
The Awakened Heart Center will be CLOSED from Thursday, Dec. 24 until Monday Night Meditation on Monday, Jan. 4.
PLEASE NOTE: All Hatha Yoga Classes will continue in the new year beginning the week of Jan. 4. Classes will continue as long as we are here in Southern Pines.
MONDAY NIGHT MEDITATION 7 - 8:30 p.m. Dec 7 $10.00 Please talk to Tom before attending MNM for the first time
DISCUSSION: DYNAMIC AWARENESS - the integration of the subconscious, conscious and superconscious minds.
CONSCIOUS LIVING CLASS Dec. 8 (Bodhi Day!) 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. $10.00 Everyone is welcome.
DISCUSSION: CLARITY OF INTENT. Clarity of Intent is what brings a possibility into reality. The clearer your intent, the clearer the outcome.
Each Conscious Living Class ends with deep hypnotic relaxation and powerful, positive affirmations.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEDITATION Dec. 9 7 p.m. FREE! EVERYONE IS WELCOME.
DISCUSSION: THE INCREDIBLE LIFE AND TEACHING OF J.KRISHNAMURTI, THE RELUCTANT MESSIAH. This talk may continue into the next week or so. Krishnamurti was raised to be the Messiah of the New Age, the Maitreya Buddha, and was the head of the Order of the Star. But at the height of his power, fame and fortune, he resigned and gave an incredible speech that is of tremendous value to all people deeply interested in the truth. Tom will read this speech during the program. (Don't worry! It isn't long!) "Truth is a Pathless Land."
Books by and about Krishnamurti are for sale for $1.00 in the bookstore.
Tom Thompson
The Awakened Heart Center for Conscious Living
130 North Ashe Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
910.692.0995
www.theawakenedheartcenter.com
12/03/2009
Basic Needs of This Nation, Kucinich
Rep. Kucinich on Afghanistan War:
"We're Acting Like a Latter Day Version of the Roman Empire"
As President Obama unveils his plan to escalate the war in Afghanistan, we speak with Ohio Congressmember Dennis Kucinich. “The United States is going deeper and deeper into debt,” says Kucinich.
“We have money for Wall Street and money for war but we don’t have money for work…for healthcare. We have to start asking ourselves, ‘Why is it that war is a priority but the basic needs of people in this country are not?’”
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/2/rep_kucinich_on_afghanistan_war
"We're Acting Like a Latter Day Version of the Roman Empire"
As President Obama unveils his plan to escalate the war in Afghanistan, we speak with Ohio Congressmember Dennis Kucinich. “The United States is going deeper and deeper into debt,” says Kucinich.
“We have money for Wall Street and money for war but we don’t have money for work…for healthcare. We have to start asking ourselves, ‘Why is it that war is a priority but the basic needs of people in this country are not?’”
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/2/rep_kucinich_on_afghanistan_war
12/02/2009
Honey the Old-fashioned Way
Natural Beekeeping Workshops
Become a natural beekeeper and begin the process of certification by participating in a workshop offered by Certified Naturally Grown! Set your honey apart without using the word organic on your honey labels! Join nearly 700 farmers from 48 states that use the Certified Naturally Grown label for their produce or livestock! Get advice on natural beekeeping methods. Exchange ideas and discover ways to transition your operation to a natural, chemical free operation without losing all your hives!
Register and attend a Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) workshop in your region in North
Carolina to learn about the Basic Honey Bee Management and Certification Standards.
The first workshop will be offered in January or February 2010 in each of the NCSBA regions (mountains, piedmont, and coast).
Registration is $10. Enrollment will be limited to 100 beekeepers per region who are certified beekeepers or have equivalent beekeeping experience. The second (also single day) workshop will be made available to those beekeepers that attend the first workshop at no additional cost to them. The second workshop is planned for the summer, once honey has been harvested but before pests become an overwhelming problem.
Each workshop will consist of 3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of demonstrations and
small group discussions. Each will be held on a Saturday in your region. You need to
attend both workshops (the one in January/February and the one in the summer) in
order to understand the program fully.
To register and get more details about workshops, go to http://www.naturallygrown.org/natural-honey-workshops.
You must register online in advance to participate in these workshops.
http://www.naturallygrown.org/natural-honey-workshops
January 9, 2010 Piedmont Forsyth Co Coop Ex Winston-Salem
January 23, 2010 Coast Lenoir Co Coop Ext Kinston
February 13, 2010 Mountains Folk Arts Center Asheville
Become a natural beekeeper and begin the process of certification by participating in a workshop offered by Certified Naturally Grown! Set your honey apart without using the word organic on your honey labels! Join nearly 700 farmers from 48 states that use the Certified Naturally Grown label for their produce or livestock! Get advice on natural beekeeping methods. Exchange ideas and discover ways to transition your operation to a natural, chemical free operation without losing all your hives!
Register and attend a Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) workshop in your region in North
Carolina to learn about the Basic Honey Bee Management and Certification Standards.
The first workshop will be offered in January or February 2010 in each of the NCSBA regions (mountains, piedmont, and coast).
Registration is $10. Enrollment will be limited to 100 beekeepers per region who are certified beekeepers or have equivalent beekeeping experience. The second (also single day) workshop will be made available to those beekeepers that attend the first workshop at no additional cost to them. The second workshop is planned for the summer, once honey has been harvested but before pests become an overwhelming problem.
Each workshop will consist of 3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of demonstrations and
small group discussions. Each will be held on a Saturday in your region. You need to
attend both workshops (the one in January/February and the one in the summer) in
order to understand the program fully.
To register and get more details about workshops, go to http://www.naturallygrown.org/natural-honey-workshops.
You must register online in advance to participate in these workshops.
http://www.naturallygrown.org/natural-honey-workshops
January 9, 2010 Piedmont Forsyth Co Coop Ex Winston-Salem
January 23, 2010 Coast Lenoir Co Coop Ext Kinston
February 13, 2010 Mountains Folk Arts Center Asheville
Studio Sale, Emily Whittle, Red Springs
Studio Sale 2009
Saturday, December 5 11 a.m. — 4 p.m.
ART, HANDMADE BOOKS, CARDS, ARTISAN BREAD, SPECIALTY TEAS
Visit my new website: www.happylotuspond.com
At the home of Emily Whittle
222 E. 5th Ave., Red Springs, NC 910 843-2427
Admission: one can of food for the local food pantry
Saturday, December 5 11 a.m. — 4 p.m.
ART, HANDMADE BOOKS, CARDS, ARTISAN BREAD, SPECIALTY TEAS
Visit my new website: www.happylotuspond.com
At the home of Emily Whittle
222 E. 5th Ave., Red Springs, NC 910 843-2427
Admission: one can of food for the local food pantry
12/01/2009
Cumberland Progressives Peace Vigil, Fayetteville
Peace Vigil
Thursday 12/03/09 12:30 PM- 1:30 PM
Market House
Intersection of Hay, Gillespie St, Person and Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28302
To prepare for the Vigil there will be a Poster Party Wednesday 12/02/09 at Quaker House
223 Hillside Ave. Fayetteville, NC 7:00 PM
Bring Materials!
Thursday 12/03/09 12:30 PM- 1:30 PM
Market House
Intersection of Hay, Gillespie St, Person and Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28302
To prepare for the Vigil there will be a Poster Party Wednesday 12/02/09 at Quaker House
223 Hillside Ave. Fayetteville, NC 7:00 PM
Bring Materials!
Diversity Dinner, Dec. 6, Sou. Pines
Diversity Dinner Sunday, Dec. 6, 5:00
Raven's Wing Healing Center, 325 N. Page St, Southern Pines
There will be a brief meeting to discuss the future of Moore CAN.
Please bring "heavy 'or d'oeuvres" or light dinner fare.
Diversity Dinners bring together a wide and diverse group of people for food, fun and conversation. Because we tend to self-segregate both socially and religiously we are creating an opportunity to come together in a new way. Please invite others, all races, ages, religions, orientations, personal histories etc.
Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl
e-mail suttonmaureen@hotmail.com if you plan to attend Thanks!
Raven's Wing Healing Center, 325 N. Page St, Southern Pines
There will be a brief meeting to discuss the future of Moore CAN.
Please bring "heavy 'or d'oeuvres" or light dinner fare.
Diversity Dinners bring together a wide and diverse group of people for food, fun and conversation. Because we tend to self-segregate both socially and religiously we are creating an opportunity to come together in a new way. Please invite others, all races, ages, religions, orientations, personal histories etc.
Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl
e-mail suttonmaureen@hotmail.com if you plan to attend Thanks!
More on Climate Change, BBC
New head for Australia opposition
Australia's opposition elects climate change sceptic Tony Abbott as new leader, dealing a blow to PM Kevin Rudd's carbon trading plans.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/8387653.stm
Antarctic to feed major sea rise
Melting Antarctic ice is likely to contribute to a sea level rise of about 1.4m by 2100, says a major review of climate change on the continent.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8387137.stm
Australia's opposition elects climate change sceptic Tony Abbott as new leader, dealing a blow to PM Kevin Rudd's carbon trading plans.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/8387653.stm
Antarctic to feed major sea rise
Melting Antarctic ice is likely to contribute to a sea level rise of about 1.4m by 2100, says a major review of climate change on the continent.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8387137.stm
Farm to Table Cooperative, Moore Co.
"Step up to the Plate!" Food Co-op Now Accepting Charter Members
FOR a two-week period - from December 6-21 - Charter Memberships will be accepted for the new Sandhills Farm to Table Cooperative, an innovative local-food project involving local farmers, workers and consumers. As this is a true community project, all parties will be owners in the new business.
Based on membership numbers, local farmers will grow vegetables and fruit for subscription members, ensuring the delivery of the freshest produce, while at the same time preserving farms and open land and keeping local dollars circulating in the Sandhills economy. The concept is similar to another popular food distribution structure, the multi-farm CSA (community-supported agriculture)
As the first to support the formation of this new Co-Op, charter members will be rewarded in several ways. For example, since local production of certain items - such as local eggs, pastured poultry and more - is still small, charter members will be offered these products first, in order to grow the market overall. Charter members will also steer some of the earliest decisions of the cooperative.
"People really appreciate the taste of "fresh," and are understanding the economic importance of "local" and the need to preserve farmland, as well as the health benefits of eating more whole, fresh fruits and vegetables" said Fenton Wilkinson, general manager of the new Co-operative. "Now, instead of spending an hour in the grocery store, you can pick-up a box of locally grown produce in a few minutes."
A survey by Sustainable Sandhills showed that a number of Sandhills residents could not attend Moore County's popular Farmer's Markets due to work or family schedules. The Co-op intends to deliver weekly boxes of produce to drop-off spots throughout Moore County or, for an extra fee, home delivery in certain areas of concentration.
Now incorporated as a cooperative, the SF2T received a huge boost in October when Maine organic farmers Stephen and Barbara Miller awarded the project a legacy gift of $10,000 in memory of their Pinehurst parents, Evelyn and Gilbert Miller. This follows on the heels of an upcoming North Carolina marketing campaign to "Eat 10 Percent Local," a move which would return 3.4 billion to the state's economy.
For more information, contact Sandhills Farm to Table Co-operative at
www.SandhillsFarm2Table.com Or call 910-949-2142.
Sandhills Farm to Table Co-Operative
Jan Leitschuh Director of Communications and Farmer Relations 692-8801
Fenton Wilkinson, General Manager 910-949-2142
info@SandhillsFarm2Table.com www.SandhillsFarm2Table.com
FOR a two-week period - from December 6-21 - Charter Memberships will be accepted for the new Sandhills Farm to Table Cooperative, an innovative local-food project involving local farmers, workers and consumers. As this is a true community project, all parties will be owners in the new business.
Based on membership numbers, local farmers will grow vegetables and fruit for subscription members, ensuring the delivery of the freshest produce, while at the same time preserving farms and open land and keeping local dollars circulating in the Sandhills economy. The concept is similar to another popular food distribution structure, the multi-farm CSA (community-supported agriculture)
As the first to support the formation of this new Co-Op, charter members will be rewarded in several ways. For example, since local production of certain items - such as local eggs, pastured poultry and more - is still small, charter members will be offered these products first, in order to grow the market overall. Charter members will also steer some of the earliest decisions of the cooperative.
"People really appreciate the taste of "fresh," and are understanding the economic importance of "local" and the need to preserve farmland, as well as the health benefits of eating more whole, fresh fruits and vegetables" said Fenton Wilkinson, general manager of the new Co-operative. "Now, instead of spending an hour in the grocery store, you can pick-up a box of locally grown produce in a few minutes."
A survey by Sustainable Sandhills showed that a number of Sandhills residents could not attend Moore County's popular Farmer's Markets due to work or family schedules. The Co-op intends to deliver weekly boxes of produce to drop-off spots throughout Moore County or, for an extra fee, home delivery in certain areas of concentration.
Now incorporated as a cooperative, the SF2T received a huge boost in October when Maine organic farmers Stephen and Barbara Miller awarded the project a legacy gift of $10,000 in memory of their Pinehurst parents, Evelyn and Gilbert Miller. This follows on the heels of an upcoming North Carolina marketing campaign to "Eat 10 Percent Local," a move which would return 3.4 billion to the state's economy.
For more information, contact Sandhills Farm to Table Co-operative at
www.SandhillsFarm2Table.com Or call 910-949-2142.
Sandhills Farm to Table Co-Operative
Jan Leitschuh Director of Communications and Farmer Relations 692-8801
Fenton Wilkinson, General Manager 910-949-2142
info@SandhillsFarm2Table.com www.SandhillsFarm2Table.com
11/30/2009
11/29/2009
Real Health, Real Nutrition
http://www.acresusa.com/magazines/archives/0904AndersenInt.htm [interview with Arden Andersen]
Capitalism at Sunrise Theater, Sou. Pines
At the Sunrise Theater, Downtown Southern Pines
Michael Moore's Capitalism: A Love StoryCapitalism: A Love Story
November 27-30 Weekdays at 7:30, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 and 7:30
Documentary • PG 2 hr. 7min.
Starring: Michael Moore
What is the price that America pays for its love of capitalism? Years ago, that love seemed so innocent. Today, however, the American dream is looking more like a nightmare as families pay the price with their jobs, their homes and their savings.
Michael Moore takes us into the homes of ordinary people whose lives have been turned upside down; and he goes looking for explanations in Washington, DC and elsewhere. What he finds are the all-too-familiar symptoms of a love affair gone astray: lies, abuse, betrayal and 14,000 jobs being lost every day.
Michael Moore's Capitalism: A Love StoryCapitalism: A Love Story
November 27-30 Weekdays at 7:30, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 and 7:30
Documentary • PG 2 hr. 7min.
Starring: Michael Moore
What is the price that America pays for its love of capitalism? Years ago, that love seemed so innocent. Today, however, the American dream is looking more like a nightmare as families pay the price with their jobs, their homes and their savings.
Michael Moore takes us into the homes of ordinary people whose lives have been turned upside down; and he goes looking for explanations in Washington, DC and elsewhere. What he finds are the all-too-familiar symptoms of a love affair gone astray: lies, abuse, betrayal and 14,000 jobs being lost every day.
11/27/2009
Dec. 10, Moore Co Planning on PUD, Area A
[From Save Our Sandhills (SOS) Attendance Dec. 10 important!]
SAVE A UNIQUE PINE FOREST
Subject: Ventures “Pine Forest” subdivision between Highway 211 and Highway 73 in West.
Where will water come from with a 15- to 20-year timetable for total buildout?
Will water from other counties still keep flowing?
What happens during droughts?
How will herbicides and pesticides be kept from seeping into Nick’s Creek?
How will traffic be handled on local roads?
What are the real facts concerning the wastewater treatment plant – its safety, odor, maintenance?
In Cumberland County, documented problems have occurred. The Moore County Public Works has only recently developed standards and has no practical experience.
With so much area allotted for houses, businesses, roads, and golf courses, how will animals have corridors and native plants flourish?
This project is huge. It is 1,799 acres, of which 1,623 are being requested to be rezoned. This includes Nicks Creek, ultimately part of Carthage’s and Whispering Pines’ water supplies, which runs through the middle of the entire property from west to east, with small tributaries feeding it throughout the property. In all, a great deal of wetlands abound, all of which are crucial to the welfare of birds and other wildlife, as well as to rare and unusual native plants.
Planned are two separate communities – a resort hotel and residential community with a neighborhood retail center, as well as a gated residential community. These communities will include:
• Up to 890 residential and/or hotel rooms
• 2 championship golf courses and a short course
• Golf clubhouses for each course
• A resort spa, conference center, and fitness center
• A retail and office center.
Please attend the Planning Board meeting on December 10 at 6 P.M., Moore County Historic Courthouse – 2nd Floor
To learn more about Save Our Sandhills, please see www.saveoursandhills.org, call 910-235-3862 or 910-281-5271, or request a brochure at P.O. Box 893, Pinehurst, NC 28370.
SAVE A UNIQUE PINE FOREST
Subject: Ventures “Pine Forest” subdivision between Highway 211 and Highway 73 in West.
Where will water come from with a 15- to 20-year timetable for total buildout?
Will water from other counties still keep flowing?
What happens during droughts?
How will herbicides and pesticides be kept from seeping into Nick’s Creek?
How will traffic be handled on local roads?
What are the real facts concerning the wastewater treatment plant – its safety, odor, maintenance?
In Cumberland County, documented problems have occurred. The Moore County Public Works has only recently developed standards and has no practical experience.
With so much area allotted for houses, businesses, roads, and golf courses, how will animals have corridors and native plants flourish?
This project is huge. It is 1,799 acres, of which 1,623 are being requested to be rezoned. This includes Nicks Creek, ultimately part of Carthage’s and Whispering Pines’ water supplies, which runs through the middle of the entire property from west to east, with small tributaries feeding it throughout the property. In all, a great deal of wetlands abound, all of which are crucial to the welfare of birds and other wildlife, as well as to rare and unusual native plants.
Planned are two separate communities – a resort hotel and residential community with a neighborhood retail center, as well as a gated residential community. These communities will include:
• Up to 890 residential and/or hotel rooms
• 2 championship golf courses and a short course
• Golf clubhouses for each course
• A resort spa, conference center, and fitness center
• A retail and office center.
Please attend the Planning Board meeting on December 10 at 6 P.M., Moore County Historic Courthouse – 2nd Floor
To learn more about Save Our Sandhills, please see www.saveoursandhills.org, call 910-235-3862 or 910-281-5271, or request a brochure at P.O. Box 893, Pinehurst, NC 28370.
11/26/2009
Syngenta Goes on the Attack
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/11/25-7 [Agribusiness on the attack means they're feeling threatened. So this is good news, Folks! Happy organic Thanksgiving to you!]
11/24/2009
Running for NC Senate, Kenneth Lewis
Meet Kenneth
As a business lawyer in North Carolina for more than 20 years, Kenneth has been helping to create jobs and greater economic opportunity for all of North Carolina’s citizens. Kenneth’s clients have spanned the industries which have propelled the state toward its #1 business climate ranking* for seven of the past eight years. These industries include manufacturing, domestic and international distribution, high technology, and alternative energy.
Not content to forge progress only from the confines of his office, Kenneth has volunteered for and served organizations that promoted entrepreneurship and job creation, responsible lending, low income housing and community development, reproductive health issues, expansion of health insurance, healthcare delivery, early childhood development and advocacy for children’s issues.
Forging a New Path Forward
Having worked closely with businesses, government and social entrepreneurs, Kenneth understands the goals, needs and challenges of each. Many see these groups as having competing interests and goals. But Kenneth understands that continued progress in our country and in North Carolina requires that these groups work together toward a single vision — securing real and lasting prosperity for all. Kenneth has the experience, the ideas and the energy to find the common ground that will keep North Carolina and our country moving forward. As a business lawyer, that’s what he’s done for the past 22 years --- help parties with different interests and perspectives find ways to succeed together by focusing on their common interests.
Kenneth has also been active in North Carolina politics throughout his life, at the grassroots level and in advising and supporting candidates. His decision to run for the United States Senate comes on the heels of his extensive work with the Obama presidential campaign. This work involved fundraising, grassroots voter registration and early voting drives, outreach for the national campaign with state political leaders and more.
The Family Who Serves Together, Makes Change Together
The story of Kenneth’s family echoes the story of the American dream — it’s a story of hard work, reliance on education to achieve success, and a belief in serving the broader community. Kenneth’s parents were the children of sharecroppers from North and South Carolina. Despite their meager beginnings, his parents, through hard work and sacrifice, found educational opportunities. His mother became a schoolteacher and his father a minister and college professor. Kenneth’s parents demonstrated their commitment to community through their service. During the turbulent 1960’s his father served as president of an interracial and inter-faith organization that worked on reconciliation and healing of past divisions, and was a founding board member of an anti-poverty program.
Inspired by prominent lawyers like Thurgood Marshall and Julius Chambers, who were working to create change in the 1960’s and 70’s, Kenneth decided to become a lawyer. After graduating from Duke University and Harvard Law School, he turned down offers from prominent law firms across the country, and returned to his home state of North Carolina to be part of its growth into a more dynamic and prosperous state.
During his career as a business lawyer, Kenneth has been a partner in two of North Carolina’s largest and most prominent law firms. He also co-founded and ran a small law firm. That firm’s mission was to provide high quality legal services to a broad array of clients who might otherwise be unable to afford such services, including a nationally recognized Small Business Administration lender and one of the state’s largest nonprofit developers of award-winning affordable housing.
Kenneth, 47, is married to his wife of 20 years, Holly Ewell Lewis, who is a graduate of Duke and the University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Graduate School of Business, and is a former marketing executive at Sara Lee. They live in Chapel Hill with their three children, Evan (15), Marshall (14) and Maya (9). Continuing in his family’s tradition of service, Holly and their teenage children tutor at-risk students at a local elementary school, and the entire family volunteers at a food ministry at their church, Asbury Temple United Methodist Church in Durham.
As a business lawyer in North Carolina for more than 20 years, Kenneth has been helping to create jobs and greater economic opportunity for all of North Carolina’s citizens. Kenneth’s clients have spanned the industries which have propelled the state toward its #1 business climate ranking* for seven of the past eight years. These industries include manufacturing, domestic and international distribution, high technology, and alternative energy.
Not content to forge progress only from the confines of his office, Kenneth has volunteered for and served organizations that promoted entrepreneurship and job creation, responsible lending, low income housing and community development, reproductive health issues, expansion of health insurance, healthcare delivery, early childhood development and advocacy for children’s issues.
Forging a New Path Forward
Having worked closely with businesses, government and social entrepreneurs, Kenneth understands the goals, needs and challenges of each. Many see these groups as having competing interests and goals. But Kenneth understands that continued progress in our country and in North Carolina requires that these groups work together toward a single vision — securing real and lasting prosperity for all. Kenneth has the experience, the ideas and the energy to find the common ground that will keep North Carolina and our country moving forward. As a business lawyer, that’s what he’s done for the past 22 years --- help parties with different interests and perspectives find ways to succeed together by focusing on their common interests.
Kenneth has also been active in North Carolina politics throughout his life, at the grassroots level and in advising and supporting candidates. His decision to run for the United States Senate comes on the heels of his extensive work with the Obama presidential campaign. This work involved fundraising, grassroots voter registration and early voting drives, outreach for the national campaign with state political leaders and more.
The Family Who Serves Together, Makes Change Together
The story of Kenneth’s family echoes the story of the American dream — it’s a story of hard work, reliance on education to achieve success, and a belief in serving the broader community. Kenneth’s parents were the children of sharecroppers from North and South Carolina. Despite their meager beginnings, his parents, through hard work and sacrifice, found educational opportunities. His mother became a schoolteacher and his father a minister and college professor. Kenneth’s parents demonstrated their commitment to community through their service. During the turbulent 1960’s his father served as president of an interracial and inter-faith organization that worked on reconciliation and healing of past divisions, and was a founding board member of an anti-poverty program.
Inspired by prominent lawyers like Thurgood Marshall and Julius Chambers, who were working to create change in the 1960’s and 70’s, Kenneth decided to become a lawyer. After graduating from Duke University and Harvard Law School, he turned down offers from prominent law firms across the country, and returned to his home state of North Carolina to be part of its growth into a more dynamic and prosperous state.
During his career as a business lawyer, Kenneth has been a partner in two of North Carolina’s largest and most prominent law firms. He also co-founded and ran a small law firm. That firm’s mission was to provide high quality legal services to a broad array of clients who might otherwise be unable to afford such services, including a nationally recognized Small Business Administration lender and one of the state’s largest nonprofit developers of award-winning affordable housing.
Kenneth, 47, is married to his wife of 20 years, Holly Ewell Lewis, who is a graduate of Duke and the University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Graduate School of Business, and is a former marketing executive at Sara Lee. They live in Chapel Hill with their three children, Evan (15), Marshall (14) and Maya (9). Continuing in his family’s tradition of service, Holly and their teenage children tutor at-risk students at a local elementary school, and the entire family volunteers at a food ministry at their church, Asbury Temple United Methodist Church in Durham.
Hmmmmm. . . .
"In short, we are prepared to die in order to live a life that is killing us." ~ Keith Farnish
Meet Stan, the Energy Guy
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Renewable-Energy/2006-10-01/Meet-Stan-Ovshinsky-the-Energy-Genius.aspx
11/23/2009
11/22/2009
Collective Living in Transition Times
http://transition-times.com/2009/10/29/collective-living-an-idea-whose-time-has-come/
Make Your Own Cleaner
http://www.cheeseslave.com/2009/11/21/how-to-make-homemade-all-purpose-cleaner/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Cheeseslave+%28Cheeseslave%29
11/21/2009
Rooster's Wife tonight, Nov. 21
It's the last Saturday before Holiday overdrive !
Kick back and relax before you have to start cooking on the back burner !
The original Shotgun Party trio met in a little Texas dive bar in 2006. They got their start performing weekly at Austin's own Continental Club. Sparks flew and now Shotgun Party, the Austin based trio, really knows how to fire up a crowd! Their original songs are beautiful and timeless drawing influences from early blues, country, bluegrass and depression era swing. Katy Rose Cox's fearless fiddling is simply virtuosic. Miss Jenny Parrott's gorgeous vocals and addictive songs will bring you to your knees. ...and introducing Shotgun Party's newest member, Andrew Austin-Petersen on show-stopping upright bass! With tight harmonies and lively stage antics, Shotgun party will leave you with a smile ear to ear. Don't miss 'em!!
Nothing like LIVE music to get your energy level back to where it should be! Come on down to Poplar Knight Spot and have a lively visit with these fine folks from Austin, TX. Ben's chili will warm you up. Goodies from the Bakeshop will keep you sweet. The music and community will do you good and help you some too ! It's your last chance to see the terrific print work of Denise Baker.
Kick back and relax before you have to start cooking on the back burner !
The original Shotgun Party trio met in a little Texas dive bar in 2006. They got their start performing weekly at Austin's own Continental Club. Sparks flew and now Shotgun Party, the Austin based trio, really knows how to fire up a crowd! Their original songs are beautiful and timeless drawing influences from early blues, country, bluegrass and depression era swing. Katy Rose Cox's fearless fiddling is simply virtuosic. Miss Jenny Parrott's gorgeous vocals and addictive songs will bring you to your knees. ...and introducing Shotgun Party's newest member, Andrew Austin-Petersen on show-stopping upright bass! With tight harmonies and lively stage antics, Shotgun party will leave you with a smile ear to ear. Don't miss 'em!!
Nothing like LIVE music to get your energy level back to where it should be! Come on down to Poplar Knight Spot and have a lively visit with these fine folks from Austin, TX. Ben's chili will warm you up. Goodies from the Bakeshop will keep you sweet. The music and community will do you good and help you some too ! It's your last chance to see the terrific print work of Denise Baker.
Dem Women Christmas, Dec. 5, Carthage
Democratic Women of Moore County HOLIDAY PARTY
Saturday, December 5, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, McDonald Building in Carthage
RSVP Sybil Ryan by Friday November 29th, 215-9018 or email sylory@pinehurst.net
You are welcome to bring your spouse or a guest, just let Sybil know. The party will be a pot luck dinner. If you have not signed up to bring a dish please let Sybil know what you plan to bring. There is a liquor permit so you may bring beer or wine.
And please bring a donation for Moore County Dept. of Social Services for Foster Children's Christmas gifts, it will be much appreciated. Checks made to MCDSS are tax deductible. Please include Foster Children’s Christmas gifts in the memo section of the check so it will go to them.
Saturday, December 5, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, McDonald Building in Carthage
RSVP Sybil Ryan by Friday November 29th, 215-9018 or email sylory@pinehurst.net
You are welcome to bring your spouse or a guest, just let Sybil know. The party will be a pot luck dinner. If you have not signed up to bring a dish please let Sybil know what you plan to bring. There is a liquor permit so you may bring beer or wine.
And please bring a donation for Moore County Dept. of Social Services for Foster Children's Christmas gifts, it will be much appreciated. Checks made to MCDSS are tax deductible. Please include Foster Children’s Christmas gifts in the memo section of the check so it will go to them.
11/20/2009
Fayetteville Symphony at SCC, Nov. 22
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra at Owens Auditorium, Sandhills Community College
Sunday, November 22, 3:00 p.m.
Tickets are ON SALE NOW in the BOYD LIBRARY - $20.00
Pre-Concert Lecture 2:00 pm. prior to the concert. Free
by Professor Tim Haley
The Fayetteville Symphony will perform The Music of Dance and Romance. Maestro Fouad Fakhouri will premiere his new work “Tito.” The Symphony will also perform the “Hungarian Dances” composed byJohannes Brahms and “Polovtsian Dances” from Prince Igor, composed by Alexander Borodin. The concert will conclude with Rachmaninov’s brilliant “Symphonic Dances.”
Pre-Concert Lecture at 2:00 pm prior to the concert in 125 Wellard Hall adjacent to Owens Auditorium. Free and open to the public. Professor Tim Haley will discuss the works to be played, their history and significance in the world of classical music.
Germaine Brandt Elkins
Associate Director of Foundation Outreach
Sandhills Community College
(910) 695-3706
Sunday, November 22, 3:00 p.m.
Tickets are ON SALE NOW in the BOYD LIBRARY - $20.00
Pre-Concert Lecture 2:00 pm. prior to the concert. Free
by Professor Tim Haley
The Fayetteville Symphony will perform The Music of Dance and Romance. Maestro Fouad Fakhouri will premiere his new work “Tito.” The Symphony will also perform the “Hungarian Dances” composed byJohannes Brahms and “Polovtsian Dances” from Prince Igor, composed by Alexander Borodin. The concert will conclude with Rachmaninov’s brilliant “Symphonic Dances.”
Pre-Concert Lecture at 2:00 pm prior to the concert in 125 Wellard Hall adjacent to Owens Auditorium. Free and open to the public. Professor Tim Haley will discuss the works to be played, their history and significance in the world of classical music.
Germaine Brandt Elkins
Associate Director of Foundation Outreach
Sandhills Community College
(910) 695-3706
11/18/2009
Real Dirt, Fri. Nov. 20
Documentary Night at Raven’s Wing Healing Center
325 N. Page St., Sou. Pines
Friday November 20th, 2009
Center opens at 6:30pm
Documentary starts at 7:00pm
The Real Dirt on Farmer John
Filmmaker Taggart Siegel paints a fascinating portrait of a man who refused to yield. By transforming his farm into an experimental haven in the late 1960s, John Peterson attracted hundreds of artists, hippies and other political radicals. But when the agriculture crisis of the late 1980s led to the farm's eventual collapse -- and his neighbors publicly branded him a devil worshipper -- most locals thought he'd call it quits. They were wrong.
Discussion afterwards for those who would like to stay!
Homemade snacks provided!
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the movie is scheduled to begin.
rwhealingcenter@gmail.com
www.rwnaturalhealing.com
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
325 N. Page St., Sou. Pines
Friday November 20th, 2009
Center opens at 6:30pm
Documentary starts at 7:00pm
The Real Dirt on Farmer John
Filmmaker Taggart Siegel paints a fascinating portrait of a man who refused to yield. By transforming his farm into an experimental haven in the late 1960s, John Peterson attracted hundreds of artists, hippies and other political radicals. But when the agriculture crisis of the late 1980s led to the farm's eventual collapse -- and his neighbors publicly branded him a devil worshipper -- most locals thought he'd call it quits. They were wrong.
Discussion afterwards for those who would like to stay!
Homemade snacks provided!
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the movie is scheduled to begin.
rwhealingcenter@gmail.com
www.rwnaturalhealing.com
A suggested donation of $5 is greatly appreciated!
Why Soak and Sprout?
http://www.cheeseslave.com/2009/11/17/why-soak-and-sprout-grains/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Cheeseslave+%28Cheeseslave%29
11/14/2009
Soulgrass in Aberdeen, Nov. 14
Soulgrass Rebellion, Sat., Nov. 14th, 8p.m.Poplar Knight Spot
114 Knight Street, Aberdeen
(910)944-7502
General admission $9. cash and checks at the door.
Little Picture BIG Sound !
Soulgrass Rebellion—a befitting moniker for the new Asheville-based band whose sound might best be categorized as an eclectic amalgamation of acoustic and folk with shades of bluegrass and a dash of funk. The group’s front man, songwriter/vocalist/multi-instrumentalist, Oso Rey, best describes the band’s music. “It’s where the two-step and the one drop meet: roots…reggae…and soul.” He defines Soulgrass Rebellion as, “…more than a band—it’s a movement—and we want our audience to have a stake in both.”
Soulgrass Rebellion started coming together long before anyone realized what was developing. About a year ago guitarist Silas Durocher began playing with Oso Rey at the Lexington Living Room songwriter series at BoBo Gallery in downtown Asheville. The two musicians became familiar with one another’s style and found they perfectly complemented one another. “We don’t play over each other… there’s a space where our collective sound meets and parts again,” explains Oso.
In late 2008, Brian Jones jumped in on drums and found his place beside Oso and Silas. Brian brought Justin Powell, a session bass player from Atlanta. The music emanating from the jam sessions at Bobo Gallery continued to evolve. By February 2009, the new group, Soulgrass Rebellion, had gelled and began preparing to officially arrive on the scene. Join the local scene at the gallery space of Poplar Knight Spot in lower Aberdeen, NC. One block east of US 1 on Knight St.
The show starts at 8. Right around the corner at the Aberdeen Cafe, Ben and Rose will be serving up their Saturday night fish fry, AND their terrific new menu. Stop in for your tickets, and get a coupon for $1. off each entree.Now serving beer and wine . Running late? Order a take out and bring it on to the Schpot.
114 Knight Street, Aberdeen
(910)944-7502
General admission $9. cash and checks at the door.
Little Picture BIG Sound !
Soulgrass Rebellion—a befitting moniker for the new Asheville-based band whose sound might best be categorized as an eclectic amalgamation of acoustic and folk with shades of bluegrass and a dash of funk. The group’s front man, songwriter/vocalist/multi-instrumentalist, Oso Rey, best describes the band’s music. “It’s where the two-step and the one drop meet: roots…reggae…and soul.” He defines Soulgrass Rebellion as, “…more than a band—it’s a movement—and we want our audience to have a stake in both.”
Soulgrass Rebellion started coming together long before anyone realized what was developing. About a year ago guitarist Silas Durocher began playing with Oso Rey at the Lexington Living Room songwriter series at BoBo Gallery in downtown Asheville. The two musicians became familiar with one another’s style and found they perfectly complemented one another. “We don’t play over each other… there’s a space where our collective sound meets and parts again,” explains Oso.
In late 2008, Brian Jones jumped in on drums and found his place beside Oso and Silas. Brian brought Justin Powell, a session bass player from Atlanta. The music emanating from the jam sessions at Bobo Gallery continued to evolve. By February 2009, the new group, Soulgrass Rebellion, had gelled and began preparing to officially arrive on the scene. Join the local scene at the gallery space of Poplar Knight Spot in lower Aberdeen, NC. One block east of US 1 on Knight St.
The show starts at 8. Right around the corner at the Aberdeen Cafe, Ben and Rose will be serving up their Saturday night fish fry, AND their terrific new menu. Stop in for your tickets, and get a coupon for $1. off each entree.Now serving beer and wine . Running late? Order a take out and bring it on to the Schpot.
11/09/2009
FACEBOOK FOR FARMERS!
November 16 Workshop: Facebook for Farmers: a Great Marketing and Educational Tool 7:00-9:00 pmAgriculture Building Auditorium Pittsboro, NC Register for this FREE workshop on-line at
http://ceres.cals.ncsu.edu/surveybuilder/Form.cfm?testID=8964 (Note: The workshop is NOT on-line, but the registration is!)
The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension will offer a workshop entitled Facebook for Farmers: a Great Marketing and Educational Tool as part of its Enhancing Sustainability Series on Monday, November 16, 2009 from 7:00-9:00 pm in the auditorium of the Agriculture Building in Pittsboro. Directions: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/ag/SustAg/workshopdirections.html
Facebook can be a great tool for farmers who rely on direct marketing. Millions of folks are creating personal profiles on Facebook - did you know it can also be used to set up a business profile? No special software or expertise is required. All you need is access to a computer and the Internet! You can use Facebook to announce a new crop at the farmers' market, announce an event, post photos of things happening on the farm, communicate with your CSA and/or farmers' market customers, and so much more. Farmers' markets and agribusinesses can also use Facebook to communicate with customers! Facebook can be beneficial even to farmers who already have a farm website because Facebook pages are easy to maintain and allow for direct interaction with customers.
One local farmer who has a Facebook page reports that it has really helped with promoting on-farm events, noting that they start receiving reservations within minutes after posting an update. In this workshop we will discuss the many ways you can use Facebook to educate customers, strengthen relationships, and increase sales. Participants will become more familiar with social networking terminology and learn how to use these tools to enhance the sustainability of their business. During the workshop, we will actually create a business profile for a local farm so participants will see all of the steps involved (and how easy it is!).
The workshop will be taught by Neha Shah, Director of Travel and Tourism for the Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Debbie Roos, Agricultural Extension Agent for the Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Neha won an Innovation in Tourism Award from the Destination Marketing Association of North Carolina for an earlier version of this workshop and her innovative use of Facebook and Twitter for marketing.
This workshop is free and open to farmers, farmers' market vendors/managers, and agribusiness owners. Register for this FREE workshop on-line at
http://ceres.cals.ncsu.edu/surveybuilder/Form.cfm?testID=8964
I am also collecting examples of NC farms that have Facebook pages so if you know of a good one, please let me know! Debbie
Debbie RoosAgricultural Extension Agent Chatham County CenterNorth Carolina Cooperative Extension
919.542.8202
debbie_roos@ncsu.eduwww.growingsmallfarms.org
twitter.com/GrowSmallFarms
http://ceres.cals.ncsu.edu/surveybuilder/Form.cfm?testID=8964 (Note: The workshop is NOT on-line, but the registration is!)
The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension will offer a workshop entitled Facebook for Farmers: a Great Marketing and Educational Tool as part of its Enhancing Sustainability Series on Monday, November 16, 2009 from 7:00-9:00 pm in the auditorium of the Agriculture Building in Pittsboro. Directions: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/ag/SustAg/workshopdirections.html
Facebook can be a great tool for farmers who rely on direct marketing. Millions of folks are creating personal profiles on Facebook - did you know it can also be used to set up a business profile? No special software or expertise is required. All you need is access to a computer and the Internet! You can use Facebook to announce a new crop at the farmers' market, announce an event, post photos of things happening on the farm, communicate with your CSA and/or farmers' market customers, and so much more. Farmers' markets and agribusinesses can also use Facebook to communicate with customers! Facebook can be beneficial even to farmers who already have a farm website because Facebook pages are easy to maintain and allow for direct interaction with customers.
One local farmer who has a Facebook page reports that it has really helped with promoting on-farm events, noting that they start receiving reservations within minutes after posting an update. In this workshop we will discuss the many ways you can use Facebook to educate customers, strengthen relationships, and increase sales. Participants will become more familiar with social networking terminology and learn how to use these tools to enhance the sustainability of their business. During the workshop, we will actually create a business profile for a local farm so participants will see all of the steps involved (and how easy it is!).
The workshop will be taught by Neha Shah, Director of Travel and Tourism for the Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Debbie Roos, Agricultural Extension Agent for the Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Neha won an Innovation in Tourism Award from the Destination Marketing Association of North Carolina for an earlier version of this workshop and her innovative use of Facebook and Twitter for marketing.
This workshop is free and open to farmers, farmers' market vendors/managers, and agribusiness owners. Register for this FREE workshop on-line at
http://ceres.cals.ncsu.edu/surveybuilder/Form.cfm?testID=8964
I am also collecting examples of NC farms that have Facebook pages so if you know of a good one, please let me know! Debbie
Debbie RoosAgricultural Extension Agent Chatham County CenterNorth Carolina Cooperative Extension
919.542.8202
debbie_roos@ncsu.eduwww.growingsmallfarms.org
twitter.com/GrowSmallFarms
11/08/2009
SS Sustainability Lecture, Nov. 10, SCC
Sustainable Sandhills - Moore County
Sandhills CC, Dempsey Student Center, Clement Dining Room
Tuesday, November 10th, 6:30-8:00pm
Lyle Estill is a founder of Piedmont Biofuels, which anchors an eco-industrial park in Pittsboro, North Carolina. Since launching into his quest for sustainable biodiesel, he has found himself deploying solar technologies, green building strategies, and is currently immersed in everything from sustainable farming to vermiculture digestion to alternative boiler fuels. He is the author of Biodiesel Power (New Society 2005) and Small is Possible (New Society 2008), and the winner of various awards.
We will also include updates on community events and projects.
Please help us spread the word! Together we can make a difference!
Sandhills CC, Dempsey Student Center, Clement Dining Room
Tuesday, November 10th, 6:30-8:00pm
Lyle Estill is a founder of Piedmont Biofuels, which anchors an eco-industrial park in Pittsboro, North Carolina. Since launching into his quest for sustainable biodiesel, he has found himself deploying solar technologies, green building strategies, and is currently immersed in everything from sustainable farming to vermiculture digestion to alternative boiler fuels. He is the author of Biodiesel Power (New Society 2005) and Small is Possible (New Society 2008), and the winner of various awards.
We will also include updates on community events and projects.
Please help us spread the word! Together we can make a difference!
Dem Women, Nov. 14, Carthage
The Democratic Women of Moore County will be meeting on Saturday, Nov. 14 at 10 AM at Democratic Headquarters.
Guest speaker Sally Larsen from the Seagrove Area Potters Association will provide some local history of Moore County and nearby Seagrove potters. She will also discuss the potters' charitable activities, such as First Health Hospice, and what they do for their own community through the Potters Relief fund. Also speaking at the meeting will be Ann Thomas, head of foster care services at Dept. of Social Services. She will give a brief talk about the need for holiday gifts for the children in foster care. Reminder: please bring canned goods for our monthly food drive.
Guest speaker Sally Larsen from the Seagrove Area Potters Association will provide some local history of Moore County and nearby Seagrove potters. She will also discuss the potters' charitable activities, such as First Health Hospice, and what they do for their own community through the Potters Relief fund. Also speaking at the meeting will be Ann Thomas, head of foster care services at Dept. of Social Services. She will give a brief talk about the need for holiday gifts for the children in foster care. Reminder: please bring canned goods for our monthly food drive.
Moore County Beekeepers, Nov. 10
The November meeting of the Moore County Beekeepers Association will be held on Tuesday, November 10th at 7pm at the Moore County Agricultural Center in Carthage.
Dr. David Tarpy will be the guest speaker and will provide an overview of recent research findings in honeybee science. Association will also elect new officers for 2010.
Dr. David Tarpy will be the guest speaker and will provide an overview of recent research findings in honeybee science. Association will also elect new officers for 2010.
11/07/2009
Green Living Tour Today! 10 am - 4 pm
Stop by Maureen Sutton's Farm Up the Street! Get an eye- and ear-ful of sustainability plans as you experience the CREATIVE CHAOS on this 1910 house lot in downtown Southern Pines, where we are turning from ornamentals to non-synthetic food production, rain-water systems and backyard poultry. 345 North Page St
And next door at 325 you'll find Raven's Wing Community Center. Purchase Carley Sutton's chemical-free bath and beauty products, check out her massage therapy services, and see the space into which you may want to schedule an event!
And next door at 325 you'll find Raven's Wing Community Center. Purchase Carley Sutton's chemical-free bath and beauty products, check out her massage therapy services, and see the space into which you may want to schedule an event!
Short Clip, Appalachian Trail
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/episode/appalachian-trail-3591/Overview#tab-Videos/07338_00
11/06/2009
11/05/2009
Friday Night Flick at Raven's Wing Center
Tomorrow, Friday, Nov. 6, 7 pm
Raven's Wing is showing The Real Dirt on Farmer John (2006)
Filmmaker Taggart Siegel paints a fascinating portrait of a man who refused to yield. By transforming his farm into an experimental haven in the late 1960s, John Peterson attracted hundreds of artists, hippies and other political radicals.
But when the agriculture crisis of the late 1980s led to the farm's eventual collapse -- and his neighbors publicly branded him a devil worshipper -- most locals thought he'd call it quits. They were wrong.
Genre: Biographical Documentaries, Social & Cultural Documentaries
This movie is: Feel-good, Quirky, Inspiring
suggested donation $5, refreshments. Come early, stay late to chat!
Raven's Wing is showing The Real Dirt on Farmer John (2006)
Filmmaker Taggart Siegel paints a fascinating portrait of a man who refused to yield. By transforming his farm into an experimental haven in the late 1960s, John Peterson attracted hundreds of artists, hippies and other political radicals.
But when the agriculture crisis of the late 1980s led to the farm's eventual collapse -- and his neighbors publicly branded him a devil worshipper -- most locals thought he'd call it quits. They were wrong.
Genre: Biographical Documentaries, Social & Cultural Documentaries
This movie is: Feel-good, Quirky, Inspiring
suggested donation $5, refreshments. Come early, stay late to chat!
Raw Food Workshop, Nov. 21
Enjoy the Holidays without the guilt, without refined sugar, without the gluten, without the rancid processed oil, without yeast, without the unwanted fat calories!
Celebrawte with whole honest-to-pure-goodness truth of the RAWlicious gifts from Mother Nature to our sacred table.
Learn how to make 8 Raw recipes which include, raw cakes, raw tarts, raw pies, raw muffin, raw sprouted bread, raw uncookies and a raw white Christmas balls and a "Super raw naked antioxidant, energy booster to reverse the aging and sagging process and natural aphrodisiac power bar". All Raw recipes open the possibilities of living a raw truthful super sexy life. You'll see the rawsults!
Raw Event, November 21, 2009, on a raw Autumn Saturday from 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM at The Raven's Wing Healing Center, www.rwnaturalhealing.com
Your investment of $45. includes demos, treats to take home, recipe hand outs and rawlicious, nutritious snacks. Sign up and prepay before November 7 for both events and get a $10 discount. Space is limited so email me to save your raw sacred space.
Raw parties, raw events and raw catering available.
Gingy Caguioa, Rawlicious OM
Mind & Body Connection Studio
www.connectmindandbody.com
(910) 695-1877 studio
(910) 528-5538 cell
Celebrawte with whole honest-to-pure-goodness truth of the RAWlicious gifts from Mother Nature to our sacred table.
Learn how to make 8 Raw recipes which include, raw cakes, raw tarts, raw pies, raw muffin, raw sprouted bread, raw uncookies and a raw white Christmas balls and a "Super raw naked antioxidant, energy booster to reverse the aging and sagging process and natural aphrodisiac power bar". All Raw recipes open the possibilities of living a raw truthful super sexy life. You'll see the rawsults!
Raw Event, November 21, 2009, on a raw Autumn Saturday from 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM at The Raven's Wing Healing Center, www.rwnaturalhealing.com
Your investment of $45. includes demos, treats to take home, recipe hand outs and rawlicious, nutritious snacks. Sign up and prepay before November 7 for both events and get a $10 discount. Space is limited so email me to save your raw sacred space.
Raw parties, raw events and raw catering available.
Gingy Caguioa, Rawlicious OM
Mind & Body Connection Studio
www.connectmindandbody.com
(910) 695-1877 studio
(910) 528-5538 cell
11/04/2009
PUD Proposal, Nov. 5, Carthage, 6 pm
The proposed Pine Forest Development covers around 1,799 acres of forested land between Pinehurst and West End. This tract contains the headwaters of Nick's Creek and is one of the last large expanses of undeveloped land remaining in the greater Pinehurst area.
It is located in Area A.
Tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 5, 6 PM at the old courthouse in Carthage, the Moore County Planning Board will hear a proposal by the developer for rezoning the tract to PUD.
Of interest will be how the Board will see this proposal in view of the provisions in the Moore County Land Use Plan, which calls for the protection of the rural landscape.
It is located in Area A.
Tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 5, 6 PM at the old courthouse in Carthage, the Moore County Planning Board will hear a proposal by the developer for rezoning the tract to PUD.
Of interest will be how the Board will see this proposal in view of the provisions in the Moore County Land Use Plan, which calls for the protection of the rural landscape.
Dinner, Wine Tasting, Nov. 13, Raven's Wing
A Special Wine Tasting and Dinner
Raven’s Wing Healing Center, 325 N. Page St, Southern Pines
Featuring:
1979 Chateau Lafite Rothschild Pauillac
And classical guitar performance after dessert
Friday November 13
Dinner at 6:00 pm
RSVP by Nov. 10, seats are limited, call 692 9413
Dinner will be prepared with as much local, organic food as possible. 100%vegetarian meal followed by an amazing homemade dessert.
Please be courteous and alert us at least one day in advance if you cannot come so that we can offer your space to another. Thank you!
A minimum suggested donation of $25 is requested to help cover food and wine costs. Anything extra will go to funding other aspects of the Center and those who maintain it. Thank you for your kindness!
Raven’s Wing Healing Center, 325 N. Page St, Southern Pines
Featuring:
1979 Chateau Lafite Rothschild Pauillac
And classical guitar performance after dessert
Friday November 13
Dinner at 6:00 pm
RSVP by Nov. 10, seats are limited, call 692 9413
Dinner will be prepared with as much local, organic food as possible. 100%vegetarian meal followed by an amazing homemade dessert.
Please be courteous and alert us at least one day in advance if you cannot come so that we can offer your space to another. Thank you!
A minimum suggested donation of $25 is requested to help cover food and wine costs. Anything extra will go to funding other aspects of the Center and those who maintain it. Thank you for your kindness!
11/01/2009
10/31/2009
Support for Marsh Smith Campaign
[personal message from blogger Maureen Sutton]
As a Southern Pines resident for the past 28 years and as one of her local urban farmers, I'm supporting Marsh Smith's campaign for a seat on Town Council.
For at least two decades I've watched Marsh's tireless efforts at educating us on issues surrounding responsible land and water use, responsible development and the creation of an infrastructure that best supports those of us fortunate enough to live here now.
We know of many town's having been saddled with costs and results only to see developers leave the area and the responsibilities subsequent to their developments. Marsh supports growing business from inside the existing community and keeping as many dollars as possible circulating within our local region.
One of the most-used arguments for development is jobs creation. I have never met a young person whose driving ambition is to work at a big box store; rather, many young people would stay in the area for training in and working in professions that support green development and responsible use of irreplaceable resources, those being clean, abundant water, clean air and permeable land surfaces, without which our water sources become more and more polluted.
Marsh, known as a water regulations expert and the environment's legal counsel, is our best bet for bringing alternative views to local jobs creation, to conserving water, recycling materials, and to using already available land sites without disturbing the green ambience that supports tourism, local food production, recreation, horse country and our rare and precious longleaf ecosystem.
As a Southern Pines resident for the past 28 years and as one of her local urban farmers, I'm supporting Marsh Smith's campaign for a seat on Town Council.
For at least two decades I've watched Marsh's tireless efforts at educating us on issues surrounding responsible land and water use, responsible development and the creation of an infrastructure that best supports those of us fortunate enough to live here now.
We know of many town's having been saddled with costs and results only to see developers leave the area and the responsibilities subsequent to their developments. Marsh supports growing business from inside the existing community and keeping as many dollars as possible circulating within our local region.
One of the most-used arguments for development is jobs creation. I have never met a young person whose driving ambition is to work at a big box store; rather, many young people would stay in the area for training in and working in professions that support green development and responsible use of irreplaceable resources, those being clean, abundant water, clean air and permeable land surfaces, without which our water sources become more and more polluted.
Marsh, known as a water regulations expert and the environment's legal counsel, is our best bet for bringing alternative views to local jobs creation, to conserving water, recycling materials, and to using already available land sites without disturbing the green ambience that supports tourism, local food production, recreation, horse country and our rare and precious longleaf ecosystem.
10/29/2009
What to Plant Where, Nov. 4, SCC
THE RIGHT PLANT FOR THE RIGHT LOCATION
November 4 at 10 AM The Sandhills Horticultural Society and the Council of Garden Clubs will sponsor a program at the Ball Visitors Center of Sandhills Community College. Noted television host of “In the Garden with Bryce Lane” will present a free lecture on “The Right Plants for the Right Location.” Contact Trisha Mabe at 910-695-3882 to register.
November 4 at 10 AM The Sandhills Horticultural Society and the Council of Garden Clubs will sponsor a program at the Ball Visitors Center of Sandhills Community College. Noted television host of “In the Garden with Bryce Lane” will present a free lecture on “The Right Plants for the Right Location.” Contact Trisha Mabe at 910-695-3882 to register.
Nutrition Workshop, Nov. 14, Raven's Wing
Workshop: Soil Science for the Human Being with Ron Veitel
Saturday, Nov. 14, 1:00-4:00
Raven’s Wing Center, 325 N. Page St. Southern Pines
pregistration fee before Nov. 8: $30
registration Nov. 8 - 14: $38
“The life cycle of nature is an expanding spiral. At the base of this spiral is the soil. A fruit or vegetable’s health is determined by the health of the soil it is growing in, which inevitably has an influence on the health of those who eat it. Key principles in soil science carry over to the science of the human terrain.
“In this workshop we’ll discuss the correlation between what’s healthy for our soil is what’s healthy for the human. We’ll learn to use Brix Refractometry as a way to analyze a plant’s mineral status and thus the health of the soil it was grown in.
“Come join us for a new and refreshing way to view nutrition from the perspective of soil.”
Ron Veitel holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and is a Certified Nutritional Consultant and a Certified Metabolic Typing Advisor. Ron has worked in the field of nutrition for the past 15 years as a consultant to health food stores and doctors around the country and as the Director of Education for MegaFood Vitamins, a whole food nutrient company, for whom he has lectured throughout North America.
Currently one can find him at the Saxapahaw General Store or moonlighting as the Nutritional Consultant for Integrative Functional Medicine in downtown Pittsboro.
Ron Veitel CNC,CMTA
Integrative Functional Medicine
www.integrativefunctionalmedicine.com
to register, contact Maureen 910-692-9413 or suttonmaureen@hotmail.com or mail fee to her at 345 N. Page St, Southern Pines
Jan Leithschuh and Maureen attended Veitel's workshop last month and were so impressed that Raven's Wing decided to proudly host Ron here in Moore County. We know you'll be rewarded by the wealth of information that Ron presents! We have room for only 20 participants, so you'll be wise to pre-register by Nov. 8. We sincerely hope you'll come! (beware, your Turkey Day menu may change after hearing what Ron has to say. . .!)
Saturday, Nov. 14, 1:00-4:00
Raven’s Wing Center, 325 N. Page St. Southern Pines
pregistration fee before Nov. 8: $30
registration Nov. 8 - 14: $38
“The life cycle of nature is an expanding spiral. At the base of this spiral is the soil. A fruit or vegetable’s health is determined by the health of the soil it is growing in, which inevitably has an influence on the health of those who eat it. Key principles in soil science carry over to the science of the human terrain.
“In this workshop we’ll discuss the correlation between what’s healthy for our soil is what’s healthy for the human. We’ll learn to use Brix Refractometry as a way to analyze a plant’s mineral status and thus the health of the soil it was grown in.
“Come join us for a new and refreshing way to view nutrition from the perspective of soil.”
Ron Veitel holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and is a Certified Nutritional Consultant and a Certified Metabolic Typing Advisor. Ron has worked in the field of nutrition for the past 15 years as a consultant to health food stores and doctors around the country and as the Director of Education for MegaFood Vitamins, a whole food nutrient company, for whom he has lectured throughout North America.
Currently one can find him at the Saxapahaw General Store or moonlighting as the Nutritional Consultant for Integrative Functional Medicine in downtown Pittsboro.
Ron Veitel CNC,CMTA
Integrative Functional Medicine
www.integrativefunctionalmedicine.com
to register, contact Maureen 910-692-9413 or suttonmaureen@hotmail.com or mail fee to her at 345 N. Page St, Southern Pines
Jan Leithschuh and Maureen attended Veitel's workshop last month and were so impressed that Raven's Wing decided to proudly host Ron here in Moore County. We know you'll be rewarded by the wealth of information that Ron presents! We have room for only 20 participants, so you'll be wise to pre-register by Nov. 8. We sincerely hope you'll come! (beware, your Turkey Day menu may change after hearing what Ron has to say. . .!)
Bluefin Tuna Ban
Tuna ban 'justified' by science
Banning trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna is justified by the extent of their decline, scientists advising fisheries regulators suggest.
Banning trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna is justified by the extent of their decline, scientists advising fisheries regulators suggest.
Marsh Smith for Town Council, Sou. Pines
http://marshforcouncil.com/index.html
You can get flyers at Marsh's office, New York Ave east of Bennett St.
To volunteer, contact Tom Goergen at 691-1917.
Election Day, Tuesday Nov 3. For Southern Pines it's crucial that Marsh wins a seat on the council.
You can get flyers at Marsh's office, New York Ave east of Bennett St.
To volunteer, contact Tom Goergen at 691-1917.
Election Day, Tuesday Nov 3. For Southern Pines it's crucial that Marsh wins a seat on the council.
10/27/2009
Sustainable Sandhills Wins Energy Award
The 2009 Sustainable Energy Community Leader of the Year Award goes to…. Sustainable Sandhills!
Sustainable Sandhills is the 2009 Sustainable Energy Community Leader of the Year! The NC Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) honored SS for “Faithful and Valuable Leadership in Promoting Sustainable Energy in North Carolina.”
"Thanks to the hard work of the Sustainable Sandhills staff and board, the organization continues to grow and increase their impact on the eight county region surrounding Fort Bragg. Sustainable energy has a champion in Southeastern NC, and it is Sustainable Sandhills," announced Ivan Urlaub, Executive Director of NCSEA, while presenting the award.
SS is dedicated to community involvement in programming, including:
- A community-driven Sustainability Master Plan recently adopted by Fayetteville’s City Council.
- A low-income weatherization program using local utility-donated materials and community/faith-based volunteers.
- The SS Certified Green Business program recognizing sustainable energy, water and solid waste practices by small businesses in the region.
- Community Action Teams in each county providing an opportunity for residents to learn about sustainability and participate in local projects.
A few easy ways to conserve energy in your everyday life include:
- Turn off lights when not needed
- Unplug laptops, battery chargers and electronic devices when not in use
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs
- Dry clothes on a rack or clothes-line instead of in the dryer
- Place weather stripping on doors and windows to keep heat in this winter
Sustainable Sandhills is hosting the Green Living and Design Tour on November 7, 2009 in Cumberland, Moore, Hoke and Harnett Counties, and on Fort Bragg. The Tour highlights local homes and businesses with green elements and practices. For more information, please visit http://sustainablesandhills.org.
Sustainable Sandhills is the 2009 Sustainable Energy Community Leader of the Year! The NC Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) honored SS for “Faithful and Valuable Leadership in Promoting Sustainable Energy in North Carolina.”
"Thanks to the hard work of the Sustainable Sandhills staff and board, the organization continues to grow and increase their impact on the eight county region surrounding Fort Bragg. Sustainable energy has a champion in Southeastern NC, and it is Sustainable Sandhills," announced Ivan Urlaub, Executive Director of NCSEA, while presenting the award.
SS is dedicated to community involvement in programming, including:
- A community-driven Sustainability Master Plan recently adopted by Fayetteville’s City Council.
- A low-income weatherization program using local utility-donated materials and community/faith-based volunteers.
- The SS Certified Green Business program recognizing sustainable energy, water and solid waste practices by small businesses in the region.
- Community Action Teams in each county providing an opportunity for residents to learn about sustainability and participate in local projects.
A few easy ways to conserve energy in your everyday life include:
- Turn off lights when not needed
- Unplug laptops, battery chargers and electronic devices when not in use
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs
- Dry clothes on a rack or clothes-line instead of in the dryer
- Place weather stripping on doors and windows to keep heat in this winter
Sustainable Sandhills is hosting the Green Living and Design Tour on November 7, 2009 in Cumberland, Moore, Hoke and Harnett Counties, and on Fort Bragg. The Tour highlights local homes and businesses with green elements and practices. For more information, please visit http://sustainablesandhills.org.
10/26/2009
Birnbaum Reminder, Oct. 28, Sunrise Theater
A KIND REMINDER! ... 7:00 Wed, October 28th--Sunrise Theater
CHARLES BIRNBAUM
Founder and President, The Cultural Landscape Foundation
Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf: The Fall and Rise of an American Forest"
From the v-shaped cuts etched in longleaf pines by former slaves and their descendants, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate, we have shaped nature in a way that marks us as a community.
Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills in celebration of the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
FREE ADMISSION
This event is presented by The Classical Design Foundation in association with: The North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Preservation North Carolina, The Sandhills Council of Garden Clubs, Sandhills Natural History Society, The Southern Pines Garden Club and Sustainable Sandhills
www.classicaldesignfoundation.org
CHARLES BIRNBAUM
Founder and President, The Cultural Landscape Foundation
Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf: The Fall and Rise of an American Forest"
From the v-shaped cuts etched in longleaf pines by former slaves and their descendants, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate, we have shaped nature in a way that marks us as a community.
Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills in celebration of the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
FREE ADMISSION
This event is presented by The Classical Design Foundation in association with: The North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Preservation North Carolina, The Sandhills Council of Garden Clubs, Sandhills Natural History Society, The Southern Pines Garden Club and Sustainable Sandhills
www.classicaldesignfoundation.org
Workshop, Central Park, Star, NC. Oct. 29
http://www.centralparknc.org/AM2009Workshop.cfm
MICHAEL SHUMAN WORKSHOP
Michael Shuman will give a “Local Works” workshop on October 29, 2009 from 2:00-4:30pm. During this workshop, Mr. Shuman will discuss an alternative approach to economic development that focuses on nurturing and expanding the local and small business sector.
In his book, The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses are Beating the Global Competition, Shuman makes a compelling case for his alternative business model, one in which communities reap the benefits of "going local" in four key spending categories: goods, services, energy, and finance. He argues that despite the endless media coverage of multinational conglomerates, local businesses give more to charity, adapt more easily to rising labor and environmental standards, and produce more wealth for a community. They also spend more locally, thereby increasing community income and creating wealth and jobs. According to Shuman, ““The ability to solve our economic problems is not just the responsibility of the city council or the chamber of commerce,” he said. “It is everyone’s collective responsibility.”
[to register, click website]
MICHAEL SHUMAN WORKSHOP
Michael Shuman will give a “Local Works” workshop on October 29, 2009 from 2:00-4:30pm. During this workshop, Mr. Shuman will discuss an alternative approach to economic development that focuses on nurturing and expanding the local and small business sector.
In his book, The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses are Beating the Global Competition, Shuman makes a compelling case for his alternative business model, one in which communities reap the benefits of "going local" in four key spending categories: goods, services, energy, and finance. He argues that despite the endless media coverage of multinational conglomerates, local businesses give more to charity, adapt more easily to rising labor and environmental standards, and produce more wealth for a community. They also spend more locally, thereby increasing community income and creating wealth and jobs. According to Shuman, ““The ability to solve our economic problems is not just the responsibility of the city council or the chamber of commerce,” he said. “It is everyone’s collective responsibility.”
[to register, click website]
To Foster Compassion, Empathy
Take a break from the stories and judgments that you may have created about others or yourself. Maybe write them on a notepad and come back to them later. Then, take a few deep breaths to relax and let your compassion and clarity develop about the person or situation.
May you find ways to meet your needs.
Rick Goodfriend
Founder - World Empathy Day
http://www.walkyourtalk.org/
May you find ways to meet your needs.
Rick Goodfriend
Founder - World Empathy Day
http://www.walkyourtalk.org/
Big Week in Southern Pines, 3 Events
Tuesday, Oct. 27--Long-Range Planning Meeting, the last one for public comments, Sunrise Theater
Wednesday, Oct. 28--Our Cultural Landscape lecture by Charles Birnbaum, Sunrise Theater, 7:00, FREE
THE CLASSICAL DESIGN FOUNDATION presents CHARLES BIRNBAUM, Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC. Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest."
When a design is successful, how long is it worth keeping? When the design is a landscape of historical significance, why should we care? Understanding the value of where we live will be the subject of “Our Cultural Landscape.” This event unites two acclaimed speakers in an illustrated talk on the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
Charles Birbaum is the Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, DC. Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills--from our lumber and turpentine industry past, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate.
As the Vanderbilts were to Asheville or the Tufts to Pinehurst, so were the Boyds to Southern Pines. Under their influence, town founders overcame the devastations of clear-cutting that by the turn of the twentieth century had left a wasteland. With emphasis on plantings of native flora along with naturalized drought-tolerant ornamentals, Southern Pines emerged as a "garden place." A leader in this movement was Alfred Yeomans, a Boyd family relative who guided town landscape design in a patchwork of efforts spanning more than half a century.
Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest," will describe the cultural and natural history of our region's longleaf pine habitat, setting the stage for an understanding of Southern Pines as a resort named for a forest, and why residents should sustain our landscape heritage.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 7:00 --Save Our Sandhills Meets at Civic Club, downtown Sou. Pines. Craven Hudson on the topic “More people, same land . . . What are we going to do?”
Wednesday, Oct. 28--Our Cultural Landscape lecture by Charles Birnbaum, Sunrise Theater, 7:00, FREE
THE CLASSICAL DESIGN FOUNDATION presents CHARLES BIRNBAUM, Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC. Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest."
When a design is successful, how long is it worth keeping? When the design is a landscape of historical significance, why should we care? Understanding the value of where we live will be the subject of “Our Cultural Landscape.” This event unites two acclaimed speakers in an illustrated talk on the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
Charles Birbaum is the Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, DC. Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills--from our lumber and turpentine industry past, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate.
As the Vanderbilts were to Asheville or the Tufts to Pinehurst, so were the Boyds to Southern Pines. Under their influence, town founders overcame the devastations of clear-cutting that by the turn of the twentieth century had left a wasteland. With emphasis on plantings of native flora along with naturalized drought-tolerant ornamentals, Southern Pines emerged as a "garden place." A leader in this movement was Alfred Yeomans, a Boyd family relative who guided town landscape design in a patchwork of efforts spanning more than half a century.
Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest," will describe the cultural and natural history of our region's longleaf pine habitat, setting the stage for an understanding of Southern Pines as a resort named for a forest, and why residents should sustain our landscape heritage.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 7:00 --Save Our Sandhills Meets at Civic Club, downtown Sou. Pines. Craven Hudson on the topic “More people, same land . . . What are we going to do?”
10/25/2009
Now On-line Transition Times
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/10/fabulous-new-online-publication.html
10/24/2009
Will Allen Coming to Raleigh, Nov. 9
http://eatinginraleigh.wordpress.com/2009/09/24/will-allen-speaks-in-nc-nov-9/
10/23/2009
Great Advice
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary." - Steve Jobs
10/22/2009
Fresh at SCC, Oct. 22
Sustainable Sandhills
presents "FRESH", a FREE sustainable film
Thursday, October 22nd, 6:30-8:00pm
Sandhills Community College,
Dempsey Student Center, Clement Dining Room
presents "FRESH", a FREE sustainable film
Thursday, October 22nd, 6:30-8:00pm
Sandhills Community College,
Dempsey Student Center, Clement Dining Room
Fresh at the Sunrise, Thurs, Fri.
A quick reminder, the solution-oriented food movie "Fresh" is playing today (Thursday) and Friday evenings at the Sunrise theater. 7:30PM.
The Sunrise was kind enough to take a risk back in August, even if documentaries "hadn't done well" before. Make a point to return the support. It's our community theater, and brings us films we wouldn't see otherwise.
The Sunrise was kind enough to take a risk back in August, even if documentaries "hadn't done well" before. Make a point to return the support. It's our community theater, and brings us films we wouldn't see otherwise.
You're Invited, Oct. 22, Sou. PInes Election Campaign
"As a downtown Southern Pines business owner I am very interested in the up coming Southern Pines Town Council Election. I love the feel and activity of Southern Pines and am invested in its success. I know many of you feel the same way.
I would like you to have the opportunity to meet and talk to my friend Marsh Smith who is running for town council.
Marsh is long term Southern Pines resident and business owner himself. He is dedicated long term economic prosperity for our community. Attached please find a note inviting you to my Office on Thursday October 22nd at 5:30 pm for a chance to meet Marsh. We’ll be here for about an hour and I’ll even spring for some refreshments!
Hope to see many of you then, feel free to bring your friends.
Best Regards,
Sue
PS: if you do not live in SP… sorry to bother you but feel free to come and meet him anyway. Moore county towns are so connected we are all impacted by each other.
Sue Stovall PT DPT
Southern Pines Physical Therapy
210 S Bennett Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
(910) 692-8269 V
(910) 692-8479 F
I would like you to have the opportunity to meet and talk to my friend Marsh Smith who is running for town council.
Marsh is long term Southern Pines resident and business owner himself. He is dedicated long term economic prosperity for our community. Attached please find a note inviting you to my Office on Thursday October 22nd at 5:30 pm for a chance to meet Marsh. We’ll be here for about an hour and I’ll even spring for some refreshments!
Hope to see many of you then, feel free to bring your friends.
Best Regards,
Sue
PS: if you do not live in SP… sorry to bother you but feel free to come and meet him anyway. Moore county towns are so connected we are all impacted by each other.
Sue Stovall PT DPT
Southern Pines Physical Therapy
210 S Bennett Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
(910) 692-8269 V
(910) 692-8479 F
10/20/2009
The Last Beekeeper, Oct. 24
On Saturday, October 24th at 8pm on Planet Green TV (channel 115 on Time Warner cable), will be a program called "The Last Beekeeper". It deals with the problem of the decline of honeybees.
NC Poetry Society, Weymouth, Oct. 24
Saturday, October 24, 2009 — NCPS Fall Meeting
Southern Pines, NC — Weymouth Center, 555 East Connecticut Ave.
Event Schedule
09:15 Registration and Annual Dues Payment
Keep your society membership current by paying your annual dues. Order a box lunch ($10, cash or check payable to "I95") until 10:15 am. Enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks. If you’re a member and didn’t pick up your 2009 Pinesong (edited by Debra Kaufman) in May, claim it in the book room.
10:00 Business Meeting and NCWN Greetings
Tony Abbott, president, presides. Ed Southern, director of the North Carolina Writers’ Network, delivers a brief message.
10:15 Randall Jarrell Poetry Competition
Honorable mention Marjorie Hudson reads. This NCWN competition was judged by poet Sarah Lindsay.
10:30 Brockman-Campbell Book Award
Winner, Dannye Romine Powell (A Necklace of Bees), reads, followed by honorable mentions Irene Blair Honeycutt (Before the Light Changes) and Joe Mills (Angels, Thieves, and Winemakers). This award was judged by poet David Romtvedt.
11:30 Open Mic and Recitation
If you're interested in participating, sign up. If you're not sure how to sign up, ask a board or society member.
12:00 Lunch (book room open)
01:00 Cutting Edge of Poetry
Poet and professor Alan Michael Parker talks about what's going on in contemporary poetry
01:45 Open Mic and Recitation Reprise
02:30 Reception to Honor Readers and Speaker
Southern Pines, NC — Weymouth Center, 555 East Connecticut Ave.
Event Schedule
09:15 Registration and Annual Dues Payment
Keep your society membership current by paying your annual dues. Order a box lunch ($10, cash or check payable to "I95") until 10:15 am. Enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks. If you’re a member and didn’t pick up your 2009 Pinesong (edited by Debra Kaufman) in May, claim it in the book room.
10:00 Business Meeting and NCWN Greetings
Tony Abbott, president, presides. Ed Southern, director of the North Carolina Writers’ Network, delivers a brief message.
10:15 Randall Jarrell Poetry Competition
Honorable mention Marjorie Hudson reads. This NCWN competition was judged by poet Sarah Lindsay.
10:30 Brockman-Campbell Book Award
Winner, Dannye Romine Powell (A Necklace of Bees), reads, followed by honorable mentions Irene Blair Honeycutt (Before the Light Changes) and Joe Mills (Angels, Thieves, and Winemakers). This award was judged by poet David Romtvedt.
11:30 Open Mic and Recitation
If you're interested in participating, sign up. If you're not sure how to sign up, ask a board or society member.
12:00 Lunch (book room open)
01:00 Cutting Edge of Poetry
Poet and professor Alan Michael Parker talks about what's going on in contemporary poetry
01:45 Open Mic and Recitation Reprise
02:30 Reception to Honor Readers and Speaker
10/18/2009
Reminder, Food, Inc. and Fresh, Oct. 20-23, Sunrise Theater
The movie "Food, Inc" is returning to the Sunrise Theater in October.
Pairing up with it is a brand new solution- and action-oriented food movie called "Fresh".
After two sell-out nights in August for the documentary "Food, Inc," the Sunrise Theater is bringing it back.
Yes, the important and much-talked-about "FOOD, INC" will make its return engagement Tues-Wed, Oct 20-21. If you didn't get to see, now is your chance, and bring a friend. If you have seen it, tell a friend.
Hard on the heels of "Food, Inc", comes another food film. The Sunrise has also booked the new movie "Fresh" for Thur-Fri, Oct 22-23 .
It's been said that if "Food, Inc" was your wake-up call, "Fresh" is a look at some of our options.
"Fresh" (see: www.freshthemovie.com).
is confirmed for Thur-Fri, Oct 22-23 on the heels of "Food Inc."
Get the dates down on your calendar. And bring a friend!
Pairing up with it is a brand new solution- and action-oriented food movie called "Fresh".
After two sell-out nights in August for the documentary "Food, Inc," the Sunrise Theater is bringing it back.
Yes, the important and much-talked-about "FOOD, INC" will make its return engagement Tues-Wed, Oct 20-21. If you didn't get to see, now is your chance, and bring a friend. If you have seen it, tell a friend.
Hard on the heels of "Food, Inc", comes another food film. The Sunrise has also booked the new movie "Fresh" for Thur-Fri, Oct 22-23 .
It's been said that if "Food, Inc" was your wake-up call, "Fresh" is a look at some of our options.
"Fresh" (see: www.freshthemovie.com).
is confirmed for Thur-Fri, Oct 22-23 on the heels of "Food Inc."
Get the dates down on your calendar. And bring a friend!
10/17/2009
10/16/2009
U.S., New Zealand Rank at the Bottom
Food Day praise for Brazil, China
Brazil and China are praised, and India criticised, in a new report on efforts to tackle hunger, published on UN World Food Day.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/in_depth/8309979.stm
Brazil and China are praised, and India criticised, in a new report on efforts to tackle hunger, published on UN World Food Day.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/in_depth/8309979.stm
10/15/2009
Pickin' on the Porch, Tonight
Sustainable Sandhills Hosts Concert, Barbecue
Sustainable Sandhills will host "Pickin' on the Porch," an acoustic music concert and backyard barbecue from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15
Joe Craven will perform along with local favorites, The Parsons, at a historic Gray's Creek farmhouse built in the 1840s.
All entertainment, food and beverages are included in the ticket price.
"Please bring a lawn chair to relax comfortably during the concert," says a spokesman.
Tickets are only $35 per person or $60 per couple. Children 12 and under are only $15 each. Purchase tickets online at www.sustainablesandhills.org or by calling (910) 484-9098
All proceeds benefit Sustainable Sandhills local programs.
Sustainable Sandhills is a nonprofit organization working in the communities surrounding Fort Bragg that is committed to protecting natural resources and encouraging green growth.
Sustainable Sandhills will host "Pickin' on the Porch," an acoustic music concert and backyard barbecue from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15
Joe Craven will perform along with local favorites, The Parsons, at a historic Gray's Creek farmhouse built in the 1840s.
All entertainment, food and beverages are included in the ticket price.
"Please bring a lawn chair to relax comfortably during the concert," says a spokesman.
Tickets are only $35 per person or $60 per couple. Children 12 and under are only $15 each. Purchase tickets online at www.sustainablesandhills.org or by calling (910) 484-9098
All proceeds benefit Sustainable Sandhills local programs.
Sustainable Sandhills is a nonprofit organization working in the communities surrounding Fort Bragg that is committed to protecting natural resources and encouraging green growth.
Internat'l Seed Bank
Banana marks seed bank milestone
An international seed bank has hit its target of containing 10% of all the world's wild plant species, researchers announce.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8305456.stm
An international seed bank has hit its target of containing 10% of all the world's wild plant species, researchers announce.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/8305456.stm
Sustainability Master Plan , Fayetteville
Sustainable Sandhills eBlast
October 14, 2009
www.sustainablesandhills.org · PO Box 144 · Fayetteville · NC 28302 · 910-484-9098
City of Fayetteville Sustainability Master Plan Adopted!
The City of Fayetteville’s Environmental Services Department, with help from their consultant Greenworks Partners and Sustainable Sandhills, engaged key citizens and stakeholders in creating a comprehensive and visionary Sustainability Master Plan to guide the City’s efforts over the coming years. The plan was adopted – UNANIMOUSLY – by the City Council on October 12, 2009!
The final and adopted Sustainability Master Plan can be downloaded from the city’s website. The Master Plan includes a set of seven Guiding Principles:
1. Promote national energy independence, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a healthier environment.
2. Increase competitiveness and produce economic benefits.
3. Promote regional cooperation.
4. Preserve neighborhoods and maintain housing affordability.
5. Develop healthier communities and social equity.
6. Lead by example.
7. Utilize performance metrics and ensure accountability.
The Master Plan is organized into 4 sections, each with its own specific goals and a list of current efforts and future proposed efforts.
1. Environment and Natural Resources Air, climate, energy, water, solid waste
2. Planning Green buildings, land use & open space
3. Community Health, economic development, social equity, education
4. City Agencies (internal operations) City and Public Works Commission facilities & operations
The Master Plan will further the Greater Fayetteville Futures II vision of the Greater Fayetteville community becoming one of the top 10 places to live in the Southeast.
Congratulations to City staff (especially the City’s Environmental Services Department), Liz Burdock from Greenworks Partners, the residents and stakeholders whose input created the Master Plan, and to the City Council for adopting this plan.
October 14, 2009
www.sustainablesandhills.org · PO Box 144 · Fayetteville · NC 28302 · 910-484-9098
City of Fayetteville Sustainability Master Plan Adopted!
The City of Fayetteville’s Environmental Services Department, with help from their consultant Greenworks Partners and Sustainable Sandhills, engaged key citizens and stakeholders in creating a comprehensive and visionary Sustainability Master Plan to guide the City’s efforts over the coming years. The plan was adopted – UNANIMOUSLY – by the City Council on October 12, 2009!
The final and adopted Sustainability Master Plan can be downloaded from the city’s website. The Master Plan includes a set of seven Guiding Principles:
1. Promote national energy independence, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a healthier environment.
2. Increase competitiveness and produce economic benefits.
3. Promote regional cooperation.
4. Preserve neighborhoods and maintain housing affordability.
5. Develop healthier communities and social equity.
6. Lead by example.
7. Utilize performance metrics and ensure accountability.
The Master Plan is organized into 4 sections, each with its own specific goals and a list of current efforts and future proposed efforts.
1. Environment and Natural Resources Air, climate, energy, water, solid waste
2. Planning Green buildings, land use & open space
3. Community Health, economic development, social equity, education
4. City Agencies (internal operations) City and Public Works Commission facilities & operations
The Master Plan will further the Greater Fayetteville Futures II vision of the Greater Fayetteville community becoming one of the top 10 places to live in the Southeast.
Congratulations to City staff (especially the City’s Environmental Services Department), Liz Burdock from Greenworks Partners, the residents and stakeholders whose input created the Master Plan, and to the City Council for adopting this plan.
10/14/2009
Farm Up the Street Is On the Tour!
Almost twenty sites so far • FREE!!! • Self guided tour
Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, & Moore Counties
Come out and join us to see firsthand what ordinary people with ordinary homes are doing with “GREEN DESIGN.” We’ll also highlight what each of us can do on a daily basis to “LIVE GREEN.” Talk with vendors one-on-one at tour sites about all sorts of green technologies, and visit some of our areas greenest businesses. We’ve got everything from a straw bale house to an inside look at Fort Bragg’s sustainability initiatives to Raft Swamp Farms, a completely organic farm right here in our region!
Don’t miss it! Want to go green but don’t know how? ... Let us give you a 'green'print!
for more info: www.sustainablesandhills.org • 910-484-9098
Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, & Moore Counties
Come out and join us to see firsthand what ordinary people with ordinary homes are doing with “GREEN DESIGN.” We’ll also highlight what each of us can do on a daily basis to “LIVE GREEN.” Talk with vendors one-on-one at tour sites about all sorts of green technologies, and visit some of our areas greenest businesses. We’ve got everything from a straw bale house to an inside look at Fort Bragg’s sustainability initiatives to Raft Swamp Farms, a completely organic farm right here in our region!
Don’t miss it! Want to go green but don’t know how? ... Let us give you a 'green'print!
for more info: www.sustainablesandhills.org • 910-484-9098
Farm Stand Just South of Kolcraft, Hwy 211
Just south of Kolcraft on 211 a farm stand is selling pumpkins, apples, winter squashes, honey (when they can get it), and later, Christmas trees.
On commission they will sell things for you if you have a bumper crop of something. Stop by and visit Miles and his brother!
On commission they will sell things for you if you have a bumper crop of something. Stop by and visit Miles and his brother!
10/13/2009
Sacred Demise
"The collapse of industrial civilization is rapidly unfolding and offers us an opportunity far beyond mere survival, even as it renders absurd any attempts to "fix" or prevent the end of the world as we have known it. Sacred Demise is about the transformation of human consciousness and the emergence of a new paradigm as a result discovering our purpose in the collapse process, thereby coming home to our ultimate place in the universe.
Our willingness to consciously embark on the journey with openness and uncertainty may be advantageous for engendering a quantum evolutionary leap for our species and for the earth community.
"Carolyn Baker is tireless in her quest to understand and speak about the collapse of civilization. Her message is simple: our journey through collapse will be as much a spiritual one as a physical one, a journey back from profound disconnection to the sacred.
And so our emotional, psychological and spiritual preparations will be as important as the gardens we plant, the healing skills we acquire, and the actions we take in defense of the community of life. A book of tools and exercises to help with that preparation, then, is a welcome and much-needed addition to the literature of collapse."
--Tim Bennett and Sally Erickson, Writer and Producer of the documentary "What A Way To Go: Life At the End of Empire"
http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Demise-Spiritual-Industrial-Civilizations/dp/1440119724/ref=pd_sim_b_3
Our willingness to consciously embark on the journey with openness and uncertainty may be advantageous for engendering a quantum evolutionary leap for our species and for the earth community.
"Carolyn Baker is tireless in her quest to understand and speak about the collapse of civilization. Her message is simple: our journey through collapse will be as much a spiritual one as a physical one, a journey back from profound disconnection to the sacred.
And so our emotional, psychological and spiritual preparations will be as important as the gardens we plant, the healing skills we acquire, and the actions we take in defense of the community of life. A book of tools and exercises to help with that preparation, then, is a welcome and much-needed addition to the literature of collapse."
--Tim Bennett and Sally Erickson, Writer and Producer of the documentary "What A Way To Go: Life At the End of Empire"
http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Demise-Spiritual-Industrial-Civilizations/dp/1440119724/ref=pd_sim_b_3
10/12/2009
Herbals--Stinging Nettle!
http://www.hairlosssupplements.com/hair-care-herbal-supplements/stinging-nettle-herbal-supplement.shtml
[it can also be eaten as a cooked, spring green. Try it for some relief from fire ant stings; both the ant and the nettle contain formic acid]
[it can also be eaten as a cooked, spring green. Try it for some relief from fire ant stings; both the ant and the nettle contain formic acid]
Growth and Quality of Life, Moore County
SAVE OUR SANDHILLS GUEST TACKLES ISSUE:
POPULATION GROWTH and/or QUALITY OF LIFE
On October 29, Save Our Sandhills will host guest speaker Craven Hudson to give a talk on the topic “More people, same land . . . What are we going to do?”
For years, North Carolina has been a magnet for newcomers. We have so much to offer as a state. Our location, favorable climate and friendly folks make North Carolina the final home destination for so many. Golf courses beckon to tourists and retirees, and a growing economy both in the military and private sectors brings workers looking for opportunity. Couple that with a decline in traditional agriculture, and you get the equation for drastic land changes.
This situation did not sneak up on North Carolina. Demographers, university researchers, and business people have been predicting these changes for years. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that North Carolina will grow to a population of 12 million by the year 2030, which is an increase of more than 50% from the tally made in the year 2000. Many would argue, however, that major public policy changes or even small local land use planning decisions have not nearly kept pace with the swift population growth. Tackling growth at the macro level is extremely difficult. As the saying goes: “all politics is local.”
Craven Hudson, Moore County Extension Director, will discuss state level trends in growth and natural resource protection. He will focus primarily on what has happened, what is happening, and what may take place in the future within Moore County.
Hudson’s background gives him a unique perspective in which to consider the effects of burgeoning population growth. A forestry graduate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, his early career included working on natural resource issues as a NC Cooperative Extension agent in the Raleigh Triangle area. Other than a 2-year stint as an agricultural missionary in Venezuela, he has worked in North Carolina first as a member of the NC Cooperative Extension’s Neuse River Team, then as a Cooperative Extension agent in Gaston County, and finally as Moore County’s Extension Director since 2005.
Please join us at our regular meeting, with refreshments, on Thursday October 29 at 7 PM in the Southern Pines Civic Center, corner of Ashe Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. This timely topic affects the quality of life for each one of us.
POPULATION GROWTH and/or QUALITY OF LIFE
On October 29, Save Our Sandhills will host guest speaker Craven Hudson to give a talk on the topic “More people, same land . . . What are we going to do?”
For years, North Carolina has been a magnet for newcomers. We have so much to offer as a state. Our location, favorable climate and friendly folks make North Carolina the final home destination for so many. Golf courses beckon to tourists and retirees, and a growing economy both in the military and private sectors brings workers looking for opportunity. Couple that with a decline in traditional agriculture, and you get the equation for drastic land changes.
This situation did not sneak up on North Carolina. Demographers, university researchers, and business people have been predicting these changes for years. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that North Carolina will grow to a population of 12 million by the year 2030, which is an increase of more than 50% from the tally made in the year 2000. Many would argue, however, that major public policy changes or even small local land use planning decisions have not nearly kept pace with the swift population growth. Tackling growth at the macro level is extremely difficult. As the saying goes: “all politics is local.”
Craven Hudson, Moore County Extension Director, will discuss state level trends in growth and natural resource protection. He will focus primarily on what has happened, what is happening, and what may take place in the future within Moore County.
Hudson’s background gives him a unique perspective in which to consider the effects of burgeoning population growth. A forestry graduate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, his early career included working on natural resource issues as a NC Cooperative Extension agent in the Raleigh Triangle area. Other than a 2-year stint as an agricultural missionary in Venezuela, he has worked in North Carolina first as a member of the NC Cooperative Extension’s Neuse River Team, then as a Cooperative Extension agent in Gaston County, and finally as Moore County’s Extension Director since 2005.
Please join us at our regular meeting, with refreshments, on Thursday October 29 at 7 PM in the Southern Pines Civic Center, corner of Ashe Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. This timely topic affects the quality of life for each one of us.
10/10/2009
Conservation Insider Bulletin, Oct. 9
Conservation Insider Bulletin
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
October 9, 2009
There were mixed greens & browns in the Raleigh races this week, while in one upcoming Senate race green becomes stylish, this week in CIB:
--Campaign Watch: Raleigh Results; Senate Energy Action
--Global Warming Update: Chamber Bleeding High-Profile Membership Over Climate Obstructionism
--Washington Watch: EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Reporting Rule
--Conservationists: Remembering Margaret Pollard and Margie Ellison
Campaign Watch: Raleigh Results; Energy Steps Up as Issue in Dem Senate Race
Raleigh Results: The balance of power on the Raleigh City Council underwent an apparent shift as former council member John Odom re-took a seat over District B Councilor Rodger Koopman, an ally of strong land use planning. This is viewed as likely to end a previous Council majority for Mayor Charles Meeker's policies such as higher impact fees on development. However, other environmental allies such as Meeker himself, At-Large Councilor Russ Stephenson, and District D Councilor Thomas Crowder succeeded in retaining their seats. Local observers speculated that the heated Wake County school board races attracted many conservative voters in the North Raleigh contest which overlapped with Koopman's district, affecting that outcome.
Energy Steps Up as Issue in Dem Senate Race: So far, two North Carolina Democrats have declared their candidacies for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Richard Burr, and at least one other is nearing a decision on whether to run. Interestingly, it is the still-maybe candidate, former State Sen. Cal Cunningham, who has jumped into the debate with the greatest enthusiasm for action on clean energy / climate change legislation recently introduced in the U.S. Senate.
Cunningham traveled to Washington last week to attend the unveiling of the Barbara Boxer / John Kerry legislation on clean energy and climate change. He (along with N.C. House environmental leader Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford) is a cheerleader for that proposal.
When asked, Chapel Hill attorney Ken Lewis said he supported such legislation, and N.C. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall indicated that she was studying it. Lewis and Marshall are the two declared Democratic candidates thus far.
Global Warming Update: Chamber Bleeding High-Profile Membership Over Climate Obstructionism
Here's an encouraging twist on the ongoing, intense national debate over climate change policy. Several high-profile business organizations have dropped their memberships in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in protest over the Chamber's obstructionism on this issue. In contrast to many other business organizations, the U.S. Chamber has uncompromisingly fought against efforts in Congress to require reductions in U.S. emissions of greenhouse gases.
As a result, two large electric utilities dropped their memberships in late September, and this week it was electronics leader Apple, Inc. In a letter to the Chamber president, Apple vice president Catherine Novelli said, "Apple supports regulating greenhouse gas emissions, and it is frustrating to find the Chamber at odds with us in this effort." (Washington Post, 10/5/09.)
The Chamber president, Thomas J. Donohue, is receiving criticism for what some perceive as a conflict of interest between his duties to that group and his membership on the board of directors for Union Pacific Railroad. Union Pacific opposes climate action legislation, as an estimated 20% of its business comes from shipping coal. Donohue has agreed to Union Pacific's policy for its board members, which calls for them to back Union Pacific's interests in other contexts. There have been calls for him to resolve the conflict by resigning one position or the other. Thus far, he has refused. (National Public Radio, 9/28/09.)
Washington Watch: EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Reporting Rule
As expected, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in late September issued its final Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Rule. The rule will require approximately 10,000 industrial facilities to monitor and report their greenhouse gas emissions. The first reports are due on March 31, 2011 for calendar year 2010 emissions. Monitoring and recordkeeping activities must begin January 1, 2010, at covered facilities. EPA rejected arguments to delay the rule's implementation for a year.
If nothing else, this helps reinforce the message to potential obstructionists in Congress and lobbying groups that action is coming on climate change. Congress can set the policy—or, the Obama Administration is signaling, the executive branch has the existing authority under previous clean air legislation to act on its own through rulemaking.
Conservationists: Remembering Margaret Pollard and Margie Ellison
Two strong environmental activists with a history of special service to North Carolina's minority communities passed away recently. Margaret Pollard was a Chatham County Commissioner, and a trail-breaker as an African-American women in that post. A community organizer for decades, she also served at times as a member of the N.C. Environmental Management Commission and as a member of the board of directors of CCNC. N.C. House Speaker Joe Hackney (D-Chatham), speaking at Pollard's funeral, told mourners, "She had a real passion for helping poor people, for helping provide good nutrition for them and building houses for them."
Margie Ellison, also African-American, served as NC WARN's organizing director since 2006 and was a founder of the Grassroots Energy Alliance. Her work for Chatham County included chairing its Human Relations Commission, and serving on both its Economic Development Board and its Green Economy Task Force. In a statement, NC WARN said that "Margie's life was dedicated to the struggle for civil rights and for social, economic, and environmental justice."
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
October 9, 2009
There were mixed greens & browns in the Raleigh races this week, while in one upcoming Senate race green becomes stylish, this week in CIB:
--Campaign Watch: Raleigh Results; Senate Energy Action
--Global Warming Update: Chamber Bleeding High-Profile Membership Over Climate Obstructionism
--Washington Watch: EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Reporting Rule
--Conservationists: Remembering Margaret Pollard and Margie Ellison
Campaign Watch: Raleigh Results; Energy Steps Up as Issue in Dem Senate Race
Raleigh Results: The balance of power on the Raleigh City Council underwent an apparent shift as former council member John Odom re-took a seat over District B Councilor Rodger Koopman, an ally of strong land use planning. This is viewed as likely to end a previous Council majority for Mayor Charles Meeker's policies such as higher impact fees on development. However, other environmental allies such as Meeker himself, At-Large Councilor Russ Stephenson, and District D Councilor Thomas Crowder succeeded in retaining their seats. Local observers speculated that the heated Wake County school board races attracted many conservative voters in the North Raleigh contest which overlapped with Koopman's district, affecting that outcome.
Energy Steps Up as Issue in Dem Senate Race: So far, two North Carolina Democrats have declared their candidacies for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Richard Burr, and at least one other is nearing a decision on whether to run. Interestingly, it is the still-maybe candidate, former State Sen. Cal Cunningham, who has jumped into the debate with the greatest enthusiasm for action on clean energy / climate change legislation recently introduced in the U.S. Senate.
Cunningham traveled to Washington last week to attend the unveiling of the Barbara Boxer / John Kerry legislation on clean energy and climate change. He (along with N.C. House environmental leader Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford) is a cheerleader for that proposal.
When asked, Chapel Hill attorney Ken Lewis said he supported such legislation, and N.C. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall indicated that she was studying it. Lewis and Marshall are the two declared Democratic candidates thus far.
Global Warming Update: Chamber Bleeding High-Profile Membership Over Climate Obstructionism
Here's an encouraging twist on the ongoing, intense national debate over climate change policy. Several high-profile business organizations have dropped their memberships in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in protest over the Chamber's obstructionism on this issue. In contrast to many other business organizations, the U.S. Chamber has uncompromisingly fought against efforts in Congress to require reductions in U.S. emissions of greenhouse gases.
As a result, two large electric utilities dropped their memberships in late September, and this week it was electronics leader Apple, Inc. In a letter to the Chamber president, Apple vice president Catherine Novelli said, "Apple supports regulating greenhouse gas emissions, and it is frustrating to find the Chamber at odds with us in this effort." (Washington Post, 10/5/09.)
The Chamber president, Thomas J. Donohue, is receiving criticism for what some perceive as a conflict of interest between his duties to that group and his membership on the board of directors for Union Pacific Railroad. Union Pacific opposes climate action legislation, as an estimated 20% of its business comes from shipping coal. Donohue has agreed to Union Pacific's policy for its board members, which calls for them to back Union Pacific's interests in other contexts. There have been calls for him to resolve the conflict by resigning one position or the other. Thus far, he has refused. (National Public Radio, 9/28/09.)
Washington Watch: EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Reporting Rule
As expected, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in late September issued its final Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Rule. The rule will require approximately 10,000 industrial facilities to monitor and report their greenhouse gas emissions. The first reports are due on March 31, 2011 for calendar year 2010 emissions. Monitoring and recordkeeping activities must begin January 1, 2010, at covered facilities. EPA rejected arguments to delay the rule's implementation for a year.
If nothing else, this helps reinforce the message to potential obstructionists in Congress and lobbying groups that action is coming on climate change. Congress can set the policy—or, the Obama Administration is signaling, the executive branch has the existing authority under previous clean air legislation to act on its own through rulemaking.
Conservationists: Remembering Margaret Pollard and Margie Ellison
Two strong environmental activists with a history of special service to North Carolina's minority communities passed away recently. Margaret Pollard was a Chatham County Commissioner, and a trail-breaker as an African-American women in that post. A community organizer for decades, she also served at times as a member of the N.C. Environmental Management Commission and as a member of the board of directors of CCNC. N.C. House Speaker Joe Hackney (D-Chatham), speaking at Pollard's funeral, told mourners, "She had a real passion for helping poor people, for helping provide good nutrition for them and building houses for them."
Margie Ellison, also African-American, served as NC WARN's organizing director since 2006 and was a founder of the Grassroots Energy Alliance. Her work for Chatham County included chairing its Human Relations Commission, and serving on both its Economic Development Board and its Green Economy Task Force. In a statement, NC WARN said that "Margie's life was dedicated to the struggle for civil rights and for social, economic, and environmental justice."
10/09/2009
Land Suitability Workshop, Pinehurst
http://sustainablesandhills.org/docs/LandSuitabilityWorkshopRelease2.pdf
Moore County Beekeepers, October 13
The October meeting of the Moore County Beekeepers Association will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 7pm in the Moore County Agricultural Center in Carthage. The program will be presented by Taylor Williams on "Cooperative Extention Services".
Raven's Wing Movie Tonight Is. . .
Award-winning film Kilowatt Ours: A Plan to Re-Energize America is a timely, solutions-oriented look at one of America’s most pressing environmental challenges: energy.
Filmmaker Jeff Barrie offers hope as he turns the camera on himself and asks, “How can I make a difference?” In his journey Barrie explores the source of our electricity and the problems caused by energy production including mountain top removal, childhood asthma and global warming. Along the way he encounters individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities who are leading the way, using energy conservation, efficiency and renewable, green power all while saving money and the environment.
This often amusing and always inspiring story shows, “You can easily make a difference and here’s how!”
Filmmaker Jeff Barrie offers hope as he turns the camera on himself and asks, “How can I make a difference?” In his journey Barrie explores the source of our electricity and the problems caused by energy production including mountain top removal, childhood asthma and global warming. Along the way he encounters individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities who are leading the way, using energy conservation, efficiency and renewable, green power all while saving money and the environment.
This often amusing and always inspiring story shows, “You can easily make a difference and here’s how!”
10/08/2009
Many Believe It Already Has
Warning over global oil 'decline'
There is a "significant risk" that global production of conventional oil could "peak" and decline by 2020, a report suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/8296096.stm
There is a "significant risk" that global production of conventional oil could "peak" and decline by 2020, a report suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/8296096.stm
10/06/2009
Free Longleaf Pine Seedlings
Free Longleaf Pine seedlings, you just have to dig them up! Contact Susan Campbell susan@ncaves.com if you are interested in getting some seedlings for your property. They are in a pasture that is due to be disked this fall, and the landowner is interested in transplanting as many of the trees as possible.
10/05/2009
Dem Women, Oct. 10, Carthage
The Democratic Women of Moore County will hold their next meeting on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 10 AM at Democratic Headquarters, 104-A North McNeill St., Carthage.
Steve Gerkin, Visitor Educator and Public Programs Coordinator for the NC Zoo in Asheboro, will be talking about the NC Zoo including what’s new, the zoo’s conservation efforts, the role of zoos today, and upcoming plans. He will also be bringing along some biofacts (skulls or teeth or other animal artifacts) to share with the group.
The meeting is open to the public and all interested persons are welcome to attend. Don't forget to bring along some non-perishable food items for the food bank collection.
Steve Gerkin, Visitor Educator and Public Programs Coordinator for the NC Zoo in Asheboro, will be talking about the NC Zoo including what’s new, the zoo’s conservation efforts, the role of zoos today, and upcoming plans. He will also be bringing along some biofacts (skulls or teeth or other animal artifacts) to share with the group.
The meeting is open to the public and all interested persons are welcome to attend. Don't forget to bring along some non-perishable food items for the food bank collection.
Sustainable Sandhills Meetings, Events
MOORE COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION TEAM
Thursday, September 24, 2009 | Team Meeting
The Team was given updates on the following projects and events. To learn more, please view our meeting summary.
Local Food Consumer Survey
Green Living and Design Tour, November 7th
Sustainable Sandhills Pickin' on the Porch Fundraiser, October 15th
Our next film in the sustainable film series is "Fresh", October 22nd
Household Hazardous Waste collection day, November 21st
During the "take action" portion of the meeting we invited Rich Cregar to discuss carbon legislation, global warming and green transportation.
Please view our full meeting summary for more details.
If you have a green topic you would like to learn more about, please contact Amanda Blue and we will try to include that topic in future meeting presentations, discussion and community action.
SAVE THESE DATES!
Thursday, October 22, 2009 | Sustainable Film "Fresh", Sandhills Community College, Dempsey Student Center, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 | Charles Birnbaum lecture, "Our Cultural Landscape" at the Sunrise Theater, 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Charles Birnbaum, Founder and President, The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC, will speak on "'Our Cultural Landscape." Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest. The program will explore the unique role landscape design played in the establishment of the town, and why residents should care to sustain our landscape heritage. For more information visit The Classical Design Foundation website at www.classicaldesignfoundation.org, or contact Ray Owen at (910) 638-3982
Our next CAT meeting and green topic will be determined soon. Please check our website for updates. www.sustainablesandhills.org
Thursday, September 24, 2009 | Team Meeting
The Team was given updates on the following projects and events. To learn more, please view our meeting summary.
Local Food Consumer Survey
Green Living and Design Tour, November 7th
Sustainable Sandhills Pickin' on the Porch Fundraiser, October 15th
Our next film in the sustainable film series is "Fresh", October 22nd
Household Hazardous Waste collection day, November 21st
During the "take action" portion of the meeting we invited Rich Cregar to discuss carbon legislation, global warming and green transportation.
Please view our full meeting summary for more details.
If you have a green topic you would like to learn more about, please contact Amanda Blue and we will try to include that topic in future meeting presentations, discussion and community action.
SAVE THESE DATES!
Thursday, October 22, 2009 | Sustainable Film "Fresh", Sandhills Community College, Dempsey Student Center, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 | Charles Birnbaum lecture, "Our Cultural Landscape" at the Sunrise Theater, 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Charles Birnbaum, Founder and President, The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC, will speak on "'Our Cultural Landscape." Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest. The program will explore the unique role landscape design played in the establishment of the town, and why residents should care to sustain our landscape heritage. For more information visit The Classical Design Foundation website at www.classicaldesignfoundation.org, or contact Ray Owen at (910) 638-3982
Our next CAT meeting and green topic will be determined soon. Please check our website for updates. www.sustainablesandhills.org
10/03/2009
Events at Raven's Wing Healing Center, Sou. Pines
http://www.rwnaturalhealing.com/events.html
Raven's Wing Healing Center, Page St. Sou. Pines offers:
vegetarian dinners, sustainability documentaries, massage therapies, Alexander Technique, holistic nutrition counseling, and various workshops:
mushroom cultivation; chemical-free, kitchen beauty recipes; vermiculture; sheet-mulch techniques for building garden soil; creating a food forest; basic sewing skills; raw food; and nutrition
Also offering:
A Halloween Social
A vegetarian Thanksgiving Dinner with our family
Check us out at http://www.rwnaturalhealing.com
Raven's Wing Healing Center, Page St. Sou. Pines offers:
vegetarian dinners, sustainability documentaries, massage therapies, Alexander Technique, holistic nutrition counseling, and various workshops:
mushroom cultivation; chemical-free, kitchen beauty recipes; vermiculture; sheet-mulch techniques for building garden soil; creating a food forest; basic sewing skills; raw food; and nutrition
Also offering:
A Halloween Social
A vegetarian Thanksgiving Dinner with our family
Check us out at http://www.rwnaturalhealing.com
10/02/2009
Our Cultural Landscape, Oct. 28, Sou. Pines
Media Contact:
Ray Owen (910) 638-3982, E-mail: information@classicaldesignfoundation.com
Event title: “Our Cultural Landscape” with Charles Birnbaum
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2009, 7:00-9:00 PM
Location: Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, NC
Presented by: The Classical Design Foundation
Admission is free and open to the public.
Southern Pines, NC - October 28, 2009, THE CLASSICAL DESIGN FOUNDATION presents CHARLES BIRNBAUM, Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC. Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest."
When a design is successful, how long is it worth keeping? When the design is a landscape of historical significance, why should we care? Understanding the value of where we live will be the subject of “Our Cultural Landscape.” This event unites two acclaimed speakers in an illustrated talk on the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
Charles Birbaum is the Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, DC. Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills--from our lumber and turpentine industry past, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate.
As the Vanderbilts were to Asheville or the Tufts to Pinehurst, so were the Boyds to Southern Pines. Under their influence, town founders overcame the devastations of clear-cutting that by the turn of the twentieth century had left a wasteland. With emphasis on plantings of native flora along with naturalized drought-tolerant ornamentals, Southern Pines emerged as a "garden place." A leader in this movement was Alfred Yeomans, a Boyd family relative who guided town landscape design in a patchwork of efforts spanning more than half a century.
Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest," will describe the cultural and natural history of our region's longleaf pine habitat, setting the stage for an understanding of Southern Pines as a resort named for a forest, and why residents should care to sustain our landscape heritage.
This event is presented by The Classical Design Foundation in association with The North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Preservation North Carolina, The Sandhills Council of Garden Clubs, Sandhills Natural History Society, The Southern Pines Garden Club and Sustainable Sandhills.
The Classical Design Foundation is a Southern Pines based nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization. It exists for the preservation, education, and practice of classical visual design. For more information visit The Classical Design Foundation website at www.classicaldesignfoundation.org, or contact Ray Owen at (910) 638-3982, E-mail: information@classicaldesignfoundation.com. Mailing address: 115 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387.
Ray Owen (910) 638-3982, E-mail: information@classicaldesignfoundation.com
Event title: “Our Cultural Landscape” with Charles Birnbaum
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2009, 7:00-9:00 PM
Location: Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines, NC
Presented by: The Classical Design Foundation
Admission is free and open to the public.
Southern Pines, NC - October 28, 2009, THE CLASSICAL DESIGN FOUNDATION presents CHARLES BIRNBAUM, Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington, DC. Introduction by Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest."
When a design is successful, how long is it worth keeping? When the design is a landscape of historical significance, why should we care? Understanding the value of where we live will be the subject of “Our Cultural Landscape.” This event unites two acclaimed speakers in an illustrated talk on the natural and man-made beauty that defines the singular character of the Southern Pines landscape.
Charles Birbaum is the Founder and President of The Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, DC. Recognized for his ground-breaking achievements in preserving endangered landscapes throughout the United States, Mr. Birbaum will turn his attention to the Sandhills--from our lumber and turpentine industry past, to the development of James Boyd's Weymouth estate.
As the Vanderbilts were to Asheville or the Tufts to Pinehurst, so were the Boyds to Southern Pines. Under their influence, town founders overcame the devastations of clear-cutting that by the turn of the twentieth century had left a wasteland. With emphasis on plantings of native flora along with naturalized drought-tolerant ornamentals, Southern Pines emerged as a "garden place." A leader in this movement was Alfred Yeomans, a Boyd family relative who guided town landscape design in a patchwork of efforts spanning more than half a century.
Lawrence Earley, author of "Looking for Longleaf, The Fall and Rise of an American Forest," will describe the cultural and natural history of our region's longleaf pine habitat, setting the stage for an understanding of Southern Pines as a resort named for a forest, and why residents should care to sustain our landscape heritage.
This event is presented by The Classical Design Foundation in association with The North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Preservation North Carolina, The Sandhills Council of Garden Clubs, Sandhills Natural History Society, The Southern Pines Garden Club and Sustainable Sandhills.
The Classical Design Foundation is a Southern Pines based nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization. It exists for the preservation, education, and practice of classical visual design. For more information visit The Classical Design Foundation website at www.classicaldesignfoundation.org, or contact Ray Owen at (910) 638-3982, E-mail: information@classicaldesignfoundation.com. Mailing address: 115 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387.
10/01/2009
Moore Tells Dems "Find Your Spine"
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/09/30-3
link includes Moore's health care speech to both the Dems and to Obama.
$1.4 million a day being spent right now by the health care lobby...
Dynamite!
link includes Moore's health care speech to both the Dems and to Obama.
$1.4 million a day being spent right now by the health care lobby...
Dynamite!
Dieting and World Peace
Ancient wisdom from a good friend: "Eat a big breakfast, share your lunch with your friend, give your supper to your enemy."
9/30/2009
What Happened to We?
The New York Times
September 30, 2009
Op-Ed Columnist
Where Did ‘We’ Go?
By THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN
I hate to write about this, but I have actually been to this play before and it is really disturbing.
I was in Israel interviewing Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin just before he was assassinated in 1995. We had a beer in his office. He needed one. I remember the ugly mood in Israel then — a mood in which extreme right-wing settlers and politicians were doing all they could to delegitimize Rabin, who was committed to trading land for peace as part of the Oslo accords. They questioned his authority. They accused him of treason. They created pictures depicting him as a Nazi SS officer, and they shouted death threats at rallies. His political opponents winked at it all.
And in so doing they created a poisonous political environment that was interpreted by one right-wing Jewish settler as a license to kill Rabin — he must have heard, “God will be on your side” — and so he did.
Others have already remarked on this analogy, but I want to add my voice because the parallels to Israel then and America today turn my stomach: I have no problem with any of the substantive criticism of President Obama from the right or left. But something very dangerous is happening. Criticism from the far right has begun tipping over into delegitimation and creating the same kind of climate here that existed in Israel on the eve of the Rabin assassination.
What kind of madness is it that someone would create a poll on Facebook asking respondents, “Should Obama be killed?” The choices were: “No, Maybe, Yes, and Yes if he cuts my health care.” The Secret Service is now investigating. I hope they put the jerk in jail and throw away the key because this is exactly what was being done to Rabin.
Even if you are not worried that someone might draw from these vitriolic attacks a license to try to hurt the president, you have to be worried about what is happening to American politics more broadly.
Our leaders, even the president, can no longer utter the word “we” with a straight face. There is no more “we” in American politics at a time when “we” have these huge problems — the deficit, the recession, health care, climate change and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — that “we” can only manage, let alone fix, if there is a collective “we” at work.
Sometimes I wonder whether George H.W. Bush, president “41,” will be remembered as our last “legitimate” president. The right impeached Bill Clinton and hounded him from Day 1 with the bogus Whitewater “scandal.” George W. Bush was elected under a cloud because of the Florida voting mess, and his critics on the left never let him forget it.
And Mr. Obama is now having his legitimacy attacked by a concerted campaign from the right fringe. They are using everything from smears that he is a closet “socialist” to calling him a “liar” in the middle of a joint session of Congress to fabricating doubts about his birth in America and whether he is even a citizen. And these attacks are not just coming from the fringe. Now they come from Lou Dobbs on CNN and from members of the House of Representatives.
Again, hack away at the man’s policies and even his character all you want. I know politics is a tough business. But if we destroy the legitimacy of another president to lead or to pull the country together for what most Americans want most right now — nation-building at home — we are in serious trouble. We can’t go 24 years without a legitimate president — not without being swamped by the problems that we will end up postponing because we can’t address them rationally.
The American political system was, as the saying goes, “designed by geniuses so it could be run by idiots.” But a cocktail of political and technological trends have converged in the last decade that are making it possible for the idiots of all political stripes to overwhelm and paralyze the genius of our system.
Those factors are: the wild excess of money in politics; the gerrymandering of political districts, making them permanently Republican or Democratic and erasing the political middle; a 24/7 cable news cycle that makes all politics a daily battle of tactics that overwhelm strategic thinking; and a blogosphere that at its best enriches our debates, adding new checks on the establishment, and at its worst coarsens our debates to a whole new level, giving a new power to anonymous slanderers to send lies around the world. Finally, on top of it all, we now have a permanent presidential campaign that encourages all partisanship, all the time among our leading politicians.
I would argue that together these changes add up to a difference of degree that is a difference in kind — a different kind of American political scene that makes me wonder whether we can seriously discuss serious issues any longer and make decisions on the basis of the national interest.
We can’t change this overnight, but what we can change, and must change, is people crossing the line between criticizing the president and tacitly encouraging the unthinkable and the unforgivable.
September 30, 2009
Op-Ed Columnist
Where Did ‘We’ Go?
By THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN
I hate to write about this, but I have actually been to this play before and it is really disturbing.
I was in Israel interviewing Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin just before he was assassinated in 1995. We had a beer in his office. He needed one. I remember the ugly mood in Israel then — a mood in which extreme right-wing settlers and politicians were doing all they could to delegitimize Rabin, who was committed to trading land for peace as part of the Oslo accords. They questioned his authority. They accused him of treason. They created pictures depicting him as a Nazi SS officer, and they shouted death threats at rallies. His political opponents winked at it all.
And in so doing they created a poisonous political environment that was interpreted by one right-wing Jewish settler as a license to kill Rabin — he must have heard, “God will be on your side” — and so he did.
Others have already remarked on this analogy, but I want to add my voice because the parallels to Israel then and America today turn my stomach: I have no problem with any of the substantive criticism of President Obama from the right or left. But something very dangerous is happening. Criticism from the far right has begun tipping over into delegitimation and creating the same kind of climate here that existed in Israel on the eve of the Rabin assassination.
What kind of madness is it that someone would create a poll on Facebook asking respondents, “Should Obama be killed?” The choices were: “No, Maybe, Yes, and Yes if he cuts my health care.” The Secret Service is now investigating. I hope they put the jerk in jail and throw away the key because this is exactly what was being done to Rabin.
Even if you are not worried that someone might draw from these vitriolic attacks a license to try to hurt the president, you have to be worried about what is happening to American politics more broadly.
Our leaders, even the president, can no longer utter the word “we” with a straight face. There is no more “we” in American politics at a time when “we” have these huge problems — the deficit, the recession, health care, climate change and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — that “we” can only manage, let alone fix, if there is a collective “we” at work.
Sometimes I wonder whether George H.W. Bush, president “41,” will be remembered as our last “legitimate” president. The right impeached Bill Clinton and hounded him from Day 1 with the bogus Whitewater “scandal.” George W. Bush was elected under a cloud because of the Florida voting mess, and his critics on the left never let him forget it.
And Mr. Obama is now having his legitimacy attacked by a concerted campaign from the right fringe. They are using everything from smears that he is a closet “socialist” to calling him a “liar” in the middle of a joint session of Congress to fabricating doubts about his birth in America and whether he is even a citizen. And these attacks are not just coming from the fringe. Now they come from Lou Dobbs on CNN and from members of the House of Representatives.
Again, hack away at the man’s policies and even his character all you want. I know politics is a tough business. But if we destroy the legitimacy of another president to lead or to pull the country together for what most Americans want most right now — nation-building at home — we are in serious trouble. We can’t go 24 years without a legitimate president — not without being swamped by the problems that we will end up postponing because we can’t address them rationally.
The American political system was, as the saying goes, “designed by geniuses so it could be run by idiots.” But a cocktail of political and technological trends have converged in the last decade that are making it possible for the idiots of all political stripes to overwhelm and paralyze the genius of our system.
Those factors are: the wild excess of money in politics; the gerrymandering of political districts, making them permanently Republican or Democratic and erasing the political middle; a 24/7 cable news cycle that makes all politics a daily battle of tactics that overwhelm strategic thinking; and a blogosphere that at its best enriches our debates, adding new checks on the establishment, and at its worst coarsens our debates to a whole new level, giving a new power to anonymous slanderers to send lies around the world. Finally, on top of it all, we now have a permanent presidential campaign that encourages all partisanship, all the time among our leading politicians.
I would argue that together these changes add up to a difference of degree that is a difference in kind — a different kind of American political scene that makes me wonder whether we can seriously discuss serious issues any longer and make decisions on the basis of the national interest.
We can’t change this overnight, but what we can change, and must change, is people crossing the line between criticizing the president and tacitly encouraging the unthinkable and the unforgivable.
Appreciations
World Empathy Tip # 125
During my vacation I met 4 nurses from England. They were on a 10 day vacation from their job ashospice nurses. I could tell from talking with them that they were burned out. I offered 2 of them appreciations as being a group that helped my family while my step-dad was moving through his final days.
I replayed my stories for them and the values and needs the Hospice staff met for my family and myself knowing that they offer the same amazing support. It was a powerful appreciation and using my compassionate communication skills I made sure they heard and understood my words to them, so they could feel the energy of the values being met. I could see their energy rise immediately.
The Tip:
This week if someone says a thank you to you or offers an appreciation for something you did, stop, take a breath and feel that appreciation. Identify the values that you met for another. Relish in the life energy that will be rejuvenated. Mostly, take your time to appreciate the appreciation.
Better yet, look back a few days and identify something that you did for another or for yourself to make life easier or more rewarding. Take a moment and again feel the energy. This is a time not to be humble, just appreciative for your compassion and contribution to life.
Maybe something you did for a loved one, friend or a stranger. Take a minute to remember the situation and what values were met. Take a few deep breaths then go on with your day. Try this before you leave your bed for the day and before you sleep. Try it now.
May you find ways to meet all your needs.
Rick Goodfriend
Founder - World Empathy day
http://www.empathyday.com/
Author of "I Hear You, But..."
Over 70 communication tips to make your relationships easier
https://www.createspace.com/3391718
PS. Any comments on this tip or how to make World Empathy Day more
effective would be a contribution.
Goodfriends Communication Skills
1734 Bath St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
During my vacation I met 4 nurses from England. They were on a 10 day vacation from their job ashospice nurses. I could tell from talking with them that they were burned out. I offered 2 of them appreciations as being a group that helped my family while my step-dad was moving through his final days.
I replayed my stories for them and the values and needs the Hospice staff met for my family and myself knowing that they offer the same amazing support. It was a powerful appreciation and using my compassionate communication skills I made sure they heard and understood my words to them, so they could feel the energy of the values being met. I could see their energy rise immediately.
The Tip:
This week if someone says a thank you to you or offers an appreciation for something you did, stop, take a breath and feel that appreciation. Identify the values that you met for another. Relish in the life energy that will be rejuvenated. Mostly, take your time to appreciate the appreciation.
Better yet, look back a few days and identify something that you did for another or for yourself to make life easier or more rewarding. Take a moment and again feel the energy. This is a time not to be humble, just appreciative for your compassion and contribution to life.
Maybe something you did for a loved one, friend or a stranger. Take a minute to remember the situation and what values were met. Take a few deep breaths then go on with your day. Try this before you leave your bed for the day and before you sleep. Try it now.
May you find ways to meet all your needs.
Rick Goodfriend
Founder - World Empathy day
http://www.empathyday.com/
Author of "I Hear You, But..."
Over 70 communication tips to make your relationships easier
https://www.createspace.com/3391718
PS. Any comments on this tip or how to make World Empathy Day more
effective would be a contribution.
Goodfriends Communication Skills
1734 Bath St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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