Sacrifice for "Freedom From Oil"

“I plan to deliver an address from the Oval Office one month from today. The topic will be oil dependence.”

I tend to steer clear and far away from any type of political book. My disinterest stems from the obvious bias and propaganda that these types of political figures tend to bring into their views and writing. The viewpoint and rambling on and on bores my racing mind. “Freedom From Oil” was written from a completely different perspective and point of view that it took me by surprise. I was fully engrossed throughout the entire book and often referenced previous views and opinions as I read through Sandalow’s ideas.

The format of this book was written as fairly short, but highly detailed documents written to the next President of the United States by the various Directors and Secretaries within the President’s office. Each perspective detailed the pros and cons of how to eliminate the United States’ addiction to oil. The forward thinking approach brings in thinking from all factors which would affect the people and corporations of the US.

These views facing the problem of oil addiction include memorandums from the President, his Counselor, the Secretary of Energy, the National Security Advisor, the Council on Environmental Quality, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Economic Council, with several articles profiling American viewpoints.

Solutions to the oil addition problems are presented by the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Agriculture, the US Trade Representative, the Council of Economic Advisors, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of State. Additional viewpoints include profiles and ideas presented by American citizens. The range of solutions presented include Biofuels, Plug-in Cars, Fuel Efficiency, Coal, Hydrogen, Smart Growth, Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and Diplomatic Strategy.

Finally, a compilation of all the problems, solutions and discussion is provided via a press release and “The President’s Speech to the Nation.” The format presented in this book not only held my attention but strengthened my belief that all Americans should work toward finding solutions to our current energy crisis and work toward using cleaner fuels and be willing to sacrifice convenience for what is best for not only the United States, but also the world.

"Freedom From Oil"
By: David Sandalow
Publisher: McGraw Hill
ISBN: 978-0-07-148906-5

Global Warming - Hype or Real?

Much is being written and said about global warming. The drastic increase in wild fires in the western United States, consuming thousands of acres and hundreds of homes in recent years is just one example cited. Is the evidence for global warming convincing on a world-wide basis or is much of it just hype? What are the major concerns in terms of the economic and human devastation that global climate change could bring? Are there ways to reverse or minimize the trend, and how could humankind "weather" the decades ahead if planetary warming cannot be halted?

If the world population is to move from hype to understanding, there must be a great deal of education involved. The discovery channel, PBS, Al Gore’s movie “An Inconvenient Truth” has started the long process of educating both the young and adults. My personal feeling is that the younger generation is much more inclined to believe the evidence and truly strive to make a difference. I have witnessed the older generations scoffing at the evidence and stating that media, TV, and politicians are causing the hype around the subject of global warming.

If these concerns are not heeded and global warming continues, the potential devastation of all sea-level cities and communities is guaranteed. Climate changes will alter growing seasons and crops in all countries world-wide. In addition, a potential mass extinction of animals and plants that are not adapted for warmer climates is nearly guaranteed.

Alternate energy sources that reduce global warming emissions are of course a high priority for those concerned. Even if we are not able to stop or slow down the warming trend of our planet, it would be wise to continue to adapt cleaner technology to be implemented in the present and future.

What are your thoughts, input, and suggestions?

What role does the United States have in curtailing Global Climate Change?

As a science Teacher, one important lesson that is discussed, researched and debated in my classroom is the topic of Global Warming and the destruction of the Ozone layer. This controversial topic is not only debated in classrooms but it is also being debated by politicians and scientists around the world. My question is what role does the United States have in curtailing Global Climate Change?



Feel free to respond at the following link:

What role does the United States have in curtailing Global Climate Change

Flowering Bonsai Tree

A Beautiful Copper Rose Fountain

Flowering Bonsai Tree

Butterflies and Flowers

Live From Africa : Africam

love checking in on the Africam.... earlier there was a lion at the water hole.. it's night time right now, lots of activity!

http://www.wavelit.com/popup/playerAfricam.asp

let me know if you see any other animals .... I just love this cam.... one of my favorites to check out...

and as a Biology Teacher... a great discussion starter for students!
Enjoy!!

Here's some more information about the site
"Nkorho Pan is brought to you by Africam.com, ranked as one of the top African wildlife sites on the web. We pioneered the live web cam industry in Africa back in 1998 when we broadcast live images from some of the wildest places on the continent. This was a world first and fast gained popularity world wide. Technology has moved on and we are proud to bring you the first of our live streaming cameras on the Africam Wildlife Channel.Nkorho Pan is a natural water hole in the prestigious Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, in South Africa."

An Inconvenient Truth DVD Giveaway for Teachers

They have 50,000 copies of An Inconvenient Truth to give away to teachers in the United States. The first 50,000 teachers who apply are eligible to win. There is a limit of one DVD per teacher. All entries must be received by January 18, 2007. Click here for the complete contest rules.

Here is the entry form Link
http://participate.net/educators/DVD/giveaway