Updates April - May 02

Updates April - May 02

These messages are archived to give you an idea of how Green Solitaire and Rochester Environment are growing. It also gives one an idea of what can be done on the Internet for the environment.

05/30/02 -- Good to see President Bush doing something positive for the environment: U.S. protects Florida beaches, park from drilling - 5/30/2002 - ENN.com — President Bush said Wednesday the U.S. government would pay about $235 million to buy mineral rights near the Everglades and parts of the Florida coast, preventing oil and gas drilling and handing his brother Florida Gov. Jeb Bush a political bonanza. (May 30, 2202) ENN.com
05/30/02 -- Not just Kodak gives you an opportunity to see a falcon webcam: Mid-Hudson Bridge Peregrine Falcon Nest Peregrine Falcons are nesting on the Mid-Hudson Bridge, which carries State Routes 44 and 55 over the Hudson River, between Poughkeepsie and Highland, NY. Thanks to a partnership between the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York State Bridge Authority and the New York State Department of Transportation, you can view a current image of nest activity from a nest box located beneath the bridge.
05/30/02 -- There is no doubt about it. The expansion of the Seneca Park Zoo is causing a big brouhaha in Rochester. With Mayor Johnson threatening to sue the Doyle administration if Doyle tries to begin expansion of the Seneca Park Zoo without first getting permission from the city, the issue is heating up. The changes that will be made, the destruction of some of an Olmstead Park for a parking lot, will be permanent. If you do not know much about the issue you can surf over to RochesterEnvironment.com's Seneca Park page and get the back stories and many links pertaining to the zoo expansion issue. When you are ready to voice your opinion, call the County Clerk at 428-5350 to address the full Monroe County Legislature – Tuesday, June 11, 6:00PM.
05/29/02 -- This news story might make you think twice about supporting a bigger zoo, that will destroy our land, when our own biodiversity is in trouble: Lack of public land threatens wildlife protection - Local/Regional - theithacajournal.com - The Ithaca Journal ITHACA -- Public lands, which comprise about 15 percent of New York, are insufficient to protect most of the birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and other vertebrates within the state, a Cornell University study found. Naturalists spent eight years mapping the predicted geographic distribution of 358 native, terrestrial vertebrate species and determined that most of them have less than 10 percent of their predicted populations on lands protected by the state and federal governments. (May 29, 220) theithacajournal.com - News and Information from Ithaca and Tompkins County, New York - The Ithaca Journal
05/29/02 -- Find out how the Army Corps of Engineers is going to take care of the algae problem in Ontario Beach: US Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District The purpose of the Rochester 1135 Demonstration Project is to collect data that will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of improving the water circulation and alleviating the algae problem at Ontario Beach adjacent to the western pier at the mouth of the Genesee River. Algae are carried to this beach by easterly currents and the west pier blocks this flow, creating a stagnant area in which algae accumulates. The demonstration project will consist of three separate initiatives. One initiative will simulate the effect of placing a culvert through the pier, the second initiative will pump the algae directly to the river, and the third initiative is a set of improved beach maintenance methods.
05/29/02 -- How about taking the PATRIOT'S ENERGY PLEDGE The Patriot's Energy Pledge is a civic campaign to help Americans reduce our dependence on oil, by taking personal steps to meet our transportation needs in more fuel-efficient ways. We believe that every American driver can reduce oil use dramatically, while maintaining lifestyle and safety. By taking the pledge, you will save at the pump, help the environment and make our nation more secure.
05/29/02 -- This just in from the Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club: Here's a great way to make a difference, and a chance to win a free,
new fuel efficient car. Two online groups, MoveOn.org and the Patriot's Energy Pledge campaign, have come up with a great new way to fight the short-sightedness of American car companies. They're even offering a free Honda Civic Hybrid. I hope you'll join me in this campaign. Last month, General Motors again scuttled sound energy policy on Capitol Hill. GM spent millions lobbying against fuel efficiency standards. Meanwhile, American car companies are getting trapped in a market niche that will eventually disappear -- focusing on
products like the 8,600 pound Humvee. We've got to save GM from its own short-sightedness, before it's too late. General Motors needs to hear from us in the most powerful way possible. Please join me in taking this pledge:"I will seriously consider buying a General Motors vehicle ONLY if: - GM offers a fuel-efficient line of vehicles; - GM supports meaningful increases in fuel efficiency standards; - GM supports efforts to reduce carbon pollution and global warming." Just go to: http://www.moveon.org/saveGM/ When you pledge, you'll be automatically enrolled in a drawing for a new Honda Civic Hybrid, conducted by the Patriot's Energy Pledge campaign. The hybrids from Japan prove that great cars can be efficient too. Why is Japan out in front on this? Didn't we learn anything from the 70s, when American car companies lost huge market share to foreign imports? Please take a moment and sign the pledge now. The free Honda Civic Hybrid will be awarded July 4th in Washington, D.C.. Let's save the American car industry from itself. Let's save hundreds of thousands of American jobs. Let's save our country from its crippling dependence on oil. Let's lead the world to a sustainable future. Join with me in this campaign at: http://www.moveon.org/saveGM/
05/28/02 -- Event: ROCHESTER CRITICAL MASS MAY BIKE RIDE!! Meet this Friday at 5:15 to ride at 5:30 at the Church of
the Annunciation, 962 East Ave. Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride assert cyclists' right to the road. The idea started in San Francisco in September 1992, and quickly spread to cities all over the world. Critical Mass is a monthly worldwide two-hour (more or less), non-athletic, non-competitive, free bike ride to educate the auto-bound to the simplicity of travel by bicycle and to draw attention to the rights of urban cyclists. ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE IS ENCOURAGED TO COME RIDE WITH US! IT'S FUN, IT'S OUTDOORS - LET'S SHOW ROCHESTER THAT CYCLISTS ARE EVERYWHERE!
05/27/02 -- Want to help animals? Join Lollipop Farms for their Online Auction!
05/27/02 -- Has TV weatherman, Kevin Williams, got it right on Global Warming? -- Essay by Frank J. Regan "Misrepresenting Global Warming" on the Weather Page.
05/26/02 -- Are you a youth with a good environmental idea and need money? Welcome to the Farm Service Agency Youth Loans.
FSA makes loans to individual rural youths to establish and operate income-producing projects of modest size in connection with their participation in 4-H clubs, Future Farmers of America, and similar organizations. Each project must be part of an organized and supervised program of work. The project must be planned and operated with the help of the organization adviser, produce sufficient income to repay the loan, and provide the youth with practical business and educational experience. Each year, many young entrepreneurs take advantage of these loans and gain valuable business experience in the process.
05/26/02 -- This from the Green Party of Monroe County. If you'd like to be involved in the process of securing a Green ballot line for the next four years, or if you've ever thought about running for office on a progressive platform, please come to our next meeting on Monday, June 10 at 7:00 pm at the Gay Alliance building (179 Atlantic Ave in Rochester). In the meantime, you can find more information at www.gpomc.org.
05/24/02 -- Two Major pollution sites according to the EPA are in Rochester, New York: This from Region 2 EPA: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 2 New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands 290 Broadway - New York, New York 10007-1866 www.epa.gov/region2 Rich Cahill (212) 637-3666 EPA REPORTS ON TOXIC RELEASES TO AIR, WATER AND LAND IN NEW YORK IN 2000 FOR RELEASE: Thursday, May 23, 2002 - (#02044) NEW YORK, N.Y.-- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued its report of the most recent data available on the amount of toxic chemicals released into the environment of New York by industrial and other facilities. Since, 1988, the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) has been released to the public by EPA every year to help Americans know more about the chemicals present in their local environment and track environmental trends over time. The data made available today are for the releases that took place in 2000. Toxic releases in New York of the over 600 chemicals and chemical categories currently tracked by TRI from a number of industries were down from approximately 61.86 million pounds in 1999 to 50.6 million pounds in 2000. New this year is additional release information on chemicals that persist and bioaccumulate (PBT's) in the environment. This information was collected because of lower reporting thresholds and addition of several chemicals to the TRI list.. "Informing the public with basic information about toxic chemicals in their communities is among the most effective, common-sense steps to protect the health of families and children from the threats posed by pollution," EPA Regional Administrator Jane M. Kenny said. "That is why EPA has consistently expanded the type and amount of information available to the public under the Right-to-Know program," Ms. Kenny pointed out. Of the more than 700 facilities in New York reporting toxic releases in 2000, the ten facilities with the highest total of releases into the local environment are as follows (in descending order): 1. CWM Chemical Services L.L.C., Model City, 2. Eastman Kodak Co. Kodak Park, Rochester, 3. C.R. Huntley Steam Station, Tonawanda, 4. NRG Energy Inc. Dunkirk Steam Station, Dunkirk, 5. Finch Pruyn & Co.Inc., Glens Falls, 6. Anheuser-Busch Inc., Baldwinsville, 7. AES Somerset LLC, Barker, 8. Southern Energy Lovett Generating Station, Tomkins Cove, 9. Russell Station, Rochester, 10.Danskammer Generating Facility, Newburgh NOTE TO REPORTERS: TRI information is available online at: www.epa.gov/tri by calling Rich Cahill, (212) 637-3666.
05/24/02 -- Global Warming -- it's not a myth: Common Sense on Climate Change The scientific consensus is in. Our planet is warming, and we are helping make it happen by adding more heat-trapping gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), to the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuel (oil, coal, and natural gas) alone accounts for about 75 percent of the increase in CO2. Deforestation -- the cutting and burning of forests that trap carbon -- accounts for about another 20 percent. --from Union of Concerned Scientists
05/24/02 -- This from the Union of Concerned Scientists: Tell the Senate that antibiotics aren't for the birds! On May 13, 2002, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) introduced S. 2508, the Preservation of Antibiotics for Human Treatment Act. This bill, similar to H.R. 3804 introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Sherrod Brown (D-OH), will help end the use of medically important antibiotics in animal agriculture. Such misuse contributes to the dangerous growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains that cause serious illness in humans. Urge your Senator to cosponsor this vital health legislation! Just hit "reply" to fax the message below to your senator. To personalize the message, go to http://www.ucsaction.org/index.asp?step=2&item=1495
05/24/02 -- This from our friends over at Metro Justice: EDUCATE, AGITATE, ORGANIZE Metro Justice is now accepting applications for full and part time organizer positions as well as part time office manager. The organizer should be adept at issue development, volunteer coordination, and community relations. The office manager should have skills in bookkeeping, database maintenance, and general office duties. Good benefits. Send resumes to: 36 St Paul St, room 112, Rochester, NY, 14604. For more information call 325-2560.
05/24/02 -- There's help on the way: Environmental 911 Main - Sierra Club What is the Environmental 911 Program? Sierra Club's Environmental 911 Program provides you with a convenient, accessible, personal resource for obtaining information about actions you can take to address local environmental issues. By calling the Sierra Club's Environmental 911 Program at (415) 977-5520 or e-mailing environmental911@sierraclub.org, you will have available to you the wealth of experience and depth of knowledge that over 100 years of grassroots activism can bring.
05/23/02 -- How does Global Warming affect Rochester and what can you do about it? Find out here: EANY's CARBON CAP CAMPAIGN Welcome to EANY's Cap Carbon in New York Campaign website, a place for New Yorkers seeking information on Global Warming From acid rain to polluted waterways to the loss of wilderness and open space, New York's magnificent environment faces many challenges. Global warming is another. It, too, is caused by human activity. Global warming is unique, however, in its worldwide scope and long-term consequences. The decisions we make today will affect the health of our families and our planet for generations to come. That's why we have a responsibility to reduce the pollution that causes global warming. Fortunately, New York has begun to act. In June 2001, Governor George Pataki created the Greenhouse Gas Task Force to develop a global warming strategy for New York. Environmental Advocates welcomes this effort and hopes the Task Force will call for quick and meaningful actions. Among them should be a cap (limit) on emissions of the gases that cause global warming, starting with power plants. This one step will get us on our way toward a comprehensive solution. That's why we'd like to see the Governor Cap Carbon in New York.
05/23/02 -- This just in from the American Lung Association: The American Lung Association of New York State needs your help to
reduce power plant air emissions and the impact they have on our health. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is accepting public comments on Governor Pataki's proposal to control the emissions belched by New York plants. The Governor's proposal does not adequately address the health impacts of power plant emissions. Take Action: http://lungaction.org/campaign/Reminderpowerplants/ What is the THE STATE OF THE AIR IN NEW YORK? Find out here: ALA State of the Air 2002 -New York --from the American Lung Association.
05/21/02 -- "Global warming is arguably the biggest environmental problem that we face in the 21st century." --from Suzanne Elston's article :Human impact: how we trigger global warming, and what each individual can do about it"-http://www.enn.com/indepth/warming/overview.asp
05/21/02 -- In Canada, against the backdrop of the US backing out and corporation's power, they are having a tough time with the Kyoto Protocol: Adopting Kyoto is an uphill battle - 5/21/2002 - ENN.com
05/18/02 -- This just in from Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club "Expanding the Public's Right To Know" a new report by INFORM compares the Federal Toxic Release Inventory with New Jersey's 'right to know' program on the total use of toxic chemicals and quantities shipped. The Federal Inventory only requires reporting on toxic wastes, emissions and releases. For more information see: www.informic.org.
05/18/02 -- Event:from New York Bicycling Coalition. Wed., May 22nd, at Cornell Cooperative Extension, Highland Ave. 2pm - 8pm "Better Roads For New York State". Free workshop on bicycling and pedestrian safety in New York State. RSVP to Jesse Day at jesse@nybc.net.
05/18/02 -- Our Canadian friends are just across Lake Ontario: What do they think of their environment? The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority The Toronto region is a living, breathing ecosystem that supports a rich diversity of life. The Living City is a vision to protect our rivers, preserve our greenspace and to promote sustainable living.
05/18/02 -- This just in from Mike Schade,Citizens' Environmental Coalition, 425 Elmwood Ave. Suite 200, Buffalo, NY 14222, (716) 885-6848 (716) 885-6845 fax, cecwny@buffnet.net, www.cectoxic.org This forward comes from Shawn Lessord, an activist from Residents Environmentally Acting for Change (REACH) from Brockport. This is a very important meeting because General Electric and 3m are finally going to begin cleaning up their off-site contamination in Brockport. The residents and community need your support! If you are interested in going from the Buffalo area, email me. ************IMPORTANT MEETING************* YES!!!!! BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THE CLEANUP IS GOING TO HAPPEN! THERE WILL BE AN IMPORTANT MEETING ON THE CLEANUP OF TRIBUTARY #3 AND RESIDENTIAL YARDS IN BROCKPORT ON WEDNESDAY MAY 29TH FROM 6:30PM TIL 9:00 PM AT THE SEYMOUR LIBRARY 161 EAST AVE BROCKPORT, N.Y. THE PURPOSE OF THIS MEETING IS TO PROVIDE PEOPLE WITH INFORMATION ABOUT THE CLEANUP PLAN 2002, AND ALSO RECEIVE FEEDBACK FROM YOU ON THE CLEANUP PROCESS. THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT MEETING AND I AM ASKING THAT EVERYONE ATTEND, PLEASE. THEY ARE PLANNING ON CLEANING UP THIS SUMMER AND EVERYONE'S COMMENTS AND IDEAS ARE NEEDED. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! AND HOPEFULLY THIS WILL BE THE LAST ONE! Shawn Lessord, REACh (Residents Environmentally Acting for Change).(585) 637-4068
05/18/02 -- Here is a Rochester-area site someone has brought to my attention: Check out the problem of light pollution on SELENE Home Page Sensible and Efficient Lighting To Enhance the Nighttime Environment _ Light pollution is rapidly degrading the sky's quiet majesty and our nighttime environment. Excessive and misdirected outdoor illumination wastes precious energy, resources, and dollars; it increases power plant-generated air pollution, causes glare that blinds drivers and pedestrians, intrudes onto our property, and invades our privacy.
05/18/02 -- This from the World Wildife Fund: Thin Polar Bears Called Sign of Global Warming - WASHINGTON, DC, May 16, 2002 (ENS) - Hungry polar bears are one of the early signs that global warming is impacting Arctic habitat, suggests a new study from World Wildlife Fund. The report reviews the threats faced by the world's 22,000 polar bears and highlights growing evidence that human induced climate change is the number one long term threat to the survival of the world's largest land based carnivores. "Arctic nations that are home to most of the world's polar bears should be leading the charge against global warming," said Jennifer Morgan, director of WWF's climate change program. "Instead, the United States - the world's largest global warming polluter - is essentially ignoring this problem. All eyes will be on President Bush at the upcoming World Summit on Sustainable Development in South Africa this August to test his commitment to sustainable energy solutions for climate change." The WWF has created a new Web site: http://www.panda.org/polarbears with extensive information about polar bears and their Arctic domain. The site includes satellite tracking of two female bears, Louise and Gro, as they roam the ice pack in search of prey.
05/15/02 -- Pesticide use in Rochester - Rochester This regional report, a supplement to The Toxic Treadmill: Pesticide Use and Sales in New York State, 1997-1998, is a snapshot of pesticide use and sales patterns in the Greater Rochester area of Monroe, Wayne, Livingston, Ontario, and Genesee counties in 1998. The analysis is based on data from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) pesticide reporting program. Under the Pesticide Reporting Law of 1996, DEC collects detailed pesticide use data annually from the state’s commercial pesticide applicators and information on sales to farmers
05/15/02 -- Have you thought of the environmental consequences of smoking? CigaretteLitter.Org - The Facts About Cigarette Butts and Litter - Cigarette Litter An estimated 4.5 trillion non-biodegradable cigarette butts are littered worldwide every year. That's billions of cigarettes flicked, one at a time, on our sidewalks, beaches, nature trails, gardens, and other public places every single day. In fact, cigarettes are the most littered item in America and the world. Not only does cigarette litter ruin even the most picturesque setting, but the toxic residue in cigarette filters is damaging to the environment, and littered butts cause numerous fires every year, some of them fatal.
05/15/02 -- Get connected online to other Rochester-area environmentalists: The Rochester List. An e-mail distribution list connected progressive organizations and individual in our area. Join the list by contacting Pete Stone prse@troi.cc.rochester.edu You can then post notices to the List ast this address: rochester@lists.tao.ca
05/15/02 -- Get Connected. Learn and share information with a group committed to this planet. Earth Native Network -- Monthly discussion group and community education on topics of sustainability, simple living and non-violence. All Are Welcome! We are the local organizers of Northwest Earth Institute discussion cources (www.nwei.org) in Voluntary Simplicity, Deep Ecology, Choices for Sustainable Living, and Discovering a Sense of Place. ENN Also published the Green Yellow Pages, a listing of (most) Rochester area organizations devoted to a peaceful, sustainable future. Questions? Contact Mary Gleason at 585-385-1502 or gleason@frontiernet.net.
05/14/02 -- Event: From The Department of Environmental Medicine NIEHS Environmental Health Sciences Center Seminar Series Presents George D. Thurston, Sc.D., Associate Professor of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine - Dr. Thurston is the Director of the Community Outreach Program for New York University's Department of Environmental Medicine's NIEHS Center. Dr. Thurston is a member of the American Lung Association´s National Air Conservation Commission, and is a member of the American Thoracic Society´s Environmental and Occupational Health Long-Range Planning Committee. He also serves on the Orange County Citizen Foundation´s Environmental Heritage Committee. He has recently served on the New York State Air Management Advisory Committee to the NY Department of Environmental Conservation and the National Academy of Sciences´ Committee on the Health Effects of Waste Incineration. Dr. Thurston received his Sc.D. from the Harvard University School of Public Health in 1983; his M.S. from the Harvard University School of Public Health in 1978; and his A.B. in Environmental Studies and his Sc.B. in Environmental Engineering from Brown University in 1974. "Environmental Health Issues Related to the World Trade Center Disaster" Friday, May 31, 2002, 1:00-2:00 p.m. K-207 (Room 2-6408)
05/11/02 -- Maybe this project can be a model to clean up our Genesee River: One of the great ideas in the environmental movement has been Pete Seeger's (yes, that Pete Seeger, the singer) is the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater The non-profit organization Hudson River Sloop Clearwater was created to defend and restore the Hudson River, one of the great and historic rivers of this nation: To investigate and conduct research into any causes or sources of contamination and destruction of this river, its tributaries and similar river systems; To inform the public of such dangers and to assist the public in taking such measures to stop such contamination; To educate the general populace as to the importance of preserving the Hudson River, its tributaries and other similar river systems; To foster the historic and cultural heritage of the Hudson River Valley from the mountains to the sea; To protect the well-being of individuals who dwell along its banks and related areas; To protect and restore other great waterways; To conduct other actions that will enhance and improve the environment of the Hudson River Valley and surrounding areas.
05/10/02 -- Good to see our students working on solutions to our environmental problems. As per the story in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle today Democrat & Chronicle: Irondequoit racers seek moment in sun "The Irondequoit High School Solar Car team decided that competing was far better than a guaranteed win. The team, which heads to Baltimore on Saturday to qualify in the Tour Del Sol: The Great American Green Transportation Festival, turned down the chance to be the only vehicle competing in the race's commuter car class -- along with the guarantee of first place in the category. This year, the team will make daily posts to its Web site and will carry Global Positioning Satellite equipment so Web visitors can track the car in real time. IHS Solar Car or Northeast Sustainable Energy Association
05/10/02 -- http://climateprediction.com One of the most important aspects of environmentalism, as I have been promoting for years, is communication. Until we all get on board on recognizing and doing something wholesale on changing our collective behavior for our environment, we are not going to affect our environment in a way that will make a difference. A lot of us need to change, not just a relative few. And so here is a way you can use your computer, thousands of you, to help monitor the global effects of global warming. Check this out: BBC News | SCI/TECH | Worldwide weather watchers wanted Net users will soon get the chance to take part in a grand experiment to work out how global climate could change over the next 50 years. Scientists have developed software that simulates 100 years of worldwide weather patterns in order to refine predictions about global warming and its effect on climate. (May 10, 2002) BBC - BBCi - the UK's number one digital destination
05/09/02 -- Like dogs? Rochester is considering a dog park. What is a dog park? Dogpark.com: off-leash, on-line Dogpark.com is about dogs - all breeds, all mixes of breeds, all shapes, sizes and dispositions. The centerpiece of the site is our national list of dogparks, organized by state. It is the single most comprehensive and up-to-date list of off-leash parks that we know of. It will continue to grow and expand, and will remain the most current list around - such is the beauty and power of the Internet. We're dog owners ourselves, so we understand many of the problems facing the humans who love dogs. And we meet alot of dogs at our local dogpark, so we find out about their concerns too.
05/09/02 -- Let's help our environment today: This in from the Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club:Last week after much wrangling over the budget, Governor Pataki and the state legislative leadership struck a deal that, if accepted, would that would raid the Environmental Protection Fund to help with the deficit. Last year they committed zero in funds to the environment. This year, they plan to TAKE $200 million from the fund while using another $60 million for general revenue items. The EPF is the state’s only source of funds for parks, open space protection and to support municipal recycling. Please send a version of the letter above to your local newspaper. We need to let our officials know that we are aware of what they are doing and want them to amend the budget before it is final. "Let’s try again to get the EPF funded. Below are a sample letter and some background. It would be especially useful for you to target your small community dailies or weeklies, which will be more inclined to publish your letter Thanks, Tullia Limarzi, Atlantic Chapter Coordinator To the Editor: I was greatly disturbed to learn last week that Governor Pataki and the State’s legislative leadership are proposing to use the Environmental Protection Fund to make up for budget shortfalls. State leaders agreed last week to transfer $200 million from the EPF account to the state’s general fund, and to shift $60 million in new programs from the general fund to the Environmental Protection Fund. A recent study conducted by Durham, NC-based Institute for Southern Studies, which evaluated state performance on a number of environmental indicators, found that New York ranked 50th among the states in per-capita spending on environmental issues (www.southernstudies.org). The New York State Legislature began to addressed this problem in 1993 when it created the Environmental Protection Fund. The Fund is supposed to provide a minimum of $125 million a year to support environmental projects, specifically in the areas of municipal parks, open space protection, and solid waste. By raiding the EPF, the governor and state legislature are defying the 1993 law and threatening to deprive New York’s citizens of the parks and green spaces that add so much to our quality of life. I urge the Governor and the legislature to acknowledge the importance of parks and open space protection to New York’s residents, and to provide for adequate EPF funding before the budget becomes final. Sincerely, [Include you main and postal address]
05/06/02 -- This just in from Trust for America's Health: The Trust for America’s Health urges you to watch KIDS AND CHEMICALS, a special report on NOW With Bill Moyers, on May 10th. Premieres Friday, May 10, at 9:00 p.m. (ET) on PBS (check local listings). (More details below) The program looks at families around the country who are coping with the consequences to their children of potentially toxic exposures. In light of the toxic exposures, Bill Moyer asks, “The disturbing increases in childhood illness in America cannot be ignored. How does the exposure affect children's health?” TFAH’s main initiative, Nationwide Health Tracking, could inform us and our public health system about childhood illness and the potential links to environmental exposure. We encourage you to watch or set your VCR to record, NOW With Bill Moyers, and learn how families with childhood chronic diseases are trying to learn more. Afterwards, visit TFAH’s webpage, www.healthyamericans.org, to find out how we can bring our country's health tracking into the 21st century: by building a Nationwide Health Tracking Network that tracks chronic diseases and potential links to environmental factors. KIDS AND CHEMICALS, A SPECIAL REPORT ON NOW WITH BILL MOYERS TRACKS THE SCIENTIFIC SEARCH FOR ANSWERS ABOUT HOW ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS AFFECT AMERICA'S CHILDREN Premieres Friday, May 10 at 9:00 p.m. (ET) on PBS (check local listings)
05/04/02 -- Considering that Lead Poisoning is one of the most pernicious environmental problems in the Rochester area, this move by the Bush Administration is very unsettling. Democrat & Chronicle: Bush's lead-testing plan for kids criticized here A Bush administration proposal to change the way states test poor children for lead poisoning is drawing sharp criticism from local politicians. If adopted, the change would end the federal requirement that all states test young children on Medicaid for elevated lead levels. Instead, states would be given flexibility to determine on their own which children should be tested. At the Orchard Street Community Health Center in northeast Rochester, a neighborhood with the fourth-highest lead toxicity rating in New York state, local officials gathered Friday to denounce the Bush plan. (May 4, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com ---Why not e-mail Louise Slaughter and let her know that you support her efforts to keep leading testing for our children? Contact her here: Congresswoman Louise Slaughter Louise Slaughter explains her position on environmental matters here. Also, on this site, get the latest in News from Congresswoman Slaughter.
05/03/02 -- This just in from RochesterGardening.com: Greetings, Spring weather in upstate NY still has its twists and turns. We are always encouraged by the bright colors of Spring blooms. The events calendar has been updated on the Rochester Gardening web site. May has always been a month of plant sales. You`ll see some great opportunities for garden purchases listed in the calendar. May 18th will be a busy sale day for area garden organizations - we hope you will check out their offerings. Some of you have noticed a lack of updates to areas of the web site. This is due to efforts preparing for significant site improvements later this year. We appreciate your patience as this on-line garden resource is improved. http://www.RochesterGardening.com/events/
05/01/02 -- Help the Department of Environmental Conservation: Those who have seen, or think they've seen, a live or dead otter should call DEC biologist Bruce Penrod at (607) 776-2165, ext. 17. --from Team seeks young otters FLCC students and staff continue to monitor six of the seven otters released in 2000 at the Mueller Field Station. (May 1, 2002) Daily Messenger
05/01/02 -- Doesn't sound good. One of the most important threats to our existence is the pollution in our environment and our government doesn't seem to be protecting us. The American Lung Association says, "142 Million Americans Breathing Dirty Air The American Lung Association 's "State of the Air 2002" Highlights Cities & Counties Receiving an "F" for Smog and Nation's Need to Enforce Clean Air Act More than 142 million Americans—75 percent of the nation’s population living in counties with ozone monitors—are breathing unhealthy amounts of ozone air pollution (smog), representing the third straight year in which the toxic pollutant reached fully half of the American public, according to the American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2002 report. Of those living in the 678 counties monitoring ozone, the vast majority of the most vulnerable lived in the nearly 400 counties receiving an “F,” including nearly three-quarters of the seniors and more than 70 percent of children who had an asthma attack in the last year. The findings are compounded by the reality that, due to a series of legal and management delays, states are relying on weak federal clean air standards in place since 1979." Why not tell our government to protect us from air pollution: Take Action: State of the Air 2002
04/30/02 -- Nuclear power, do we have all the answers? Think it's the solution to our country's energy problems? Nuclear Power Opponents Cite Link to Infant Death Rates Antinuclear campaigners plan to announce today that a new study shows that infant death rates downwind of eight American nuclear power plants dropped significantly after they were shut down. (April 30, 2002) The New York Times on the Web
Interested in trees? Go here: American Chestnut Foundation Local Chapter: American Chestnut Foundation - New York State Chapter Our goal is to restore the American chestnut to Eastern forests through a scientific breeding program and cooperative research. Since the founding of our nation, the American Chestnut was a source of great value for its timber and its nuts. Settlers called it the "King of Trees" In 1904, the chestnut blight first appeared at the Bronx Zoo in New York City. In a few short decades the "King of Trees" was virtually extinct. In 1983, The American Chestnut Foundation was founded to restore this American treasure. The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The American Chestnut Foundation, 469 Main Street, P.O. Box 4044, Bennington, VT 05201-4044, USA (802) 447-0110 E-mail: chestnut@acf.org
04/27/02 -- This just in from the Kandid Coalition: The next Kandid Coalition (www.kandidcoalition.org) meeting is Thursday May 2nd at 6:30pm at 271 Averill Ave. in Rochester. We will be planning the vigil for justice outside Kodak's annual meeting, as well as a event in Rochester for the June 17th global day of action against waste incineration. Please get in touch if you would like to attend and need directions.--from Mike Schade,Citizens' Environmental Coalition, 425 Elmwood Ave. Suite 200, Buffalo, NY 14222, (716) 885-6848
(716) 885-6845 fax
04/27/02 --This looked important enough to post, from EarthNet Editor [earthnet@envirocitizen.org] Take Action: Tell Your Representative To Make The Military Clean Up Its Act --from EarthNet. CLICK HERE to tell your Rep to make the military shouldn't be above the law. http://actionnetwork.org/ct/FdzFAQn1jPDG/ Under current law, in times when national security is at stake, the president may waive environmental rules as they apply to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. But the Bush administration has proposed a "continuous, across-the-board exemption" for the Defense Department from some of our most important environmental laws. Under the administration's proposal, the DoD would no longer be subject to rules that keep our children safe from dirty air and hazardous waste, protect endangered species, and preserve our oceans and open space. If the administration prevails, key provisions of the Clean Air Act, Superfund, the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act would cease to apply to many DoD activities, regardless of whether or not national security is at stake. The Defense Department is already one of the nation's biggest toxic polluters. And the laws from which the department would be exempt include those that preserve the air and water around our military facilities and protect the health of people who live on or near military bases around the country. The House of Representatives is currently considering President Bush's proposal as part of the larger Defense Authorization bill. Let them know that no one is above the law -- not even the military. TAKE ACTION NOW: http://actionnetwork.org/ct/FdzFAQn1jPDG/ Tell your Rep to make sure the military follows the law. FOR MORE INFO: **Center for Defense Information http://actionnetwork.org/ct/-dzFAQn1jPDD/ **NRDC Report http://actionnetwork.org/ct/D7zFAQn1mqFz/
04/26/02 -- Happy Arbor Day: The National Arbor Day Foundation - We Help People Plant and Care for Trees Arbor Day Weekend, April 26-28, 2002, marks the 130th anniversary of the tree planters' holiday. April 27 is also the centennial of the death of Arbor Day founder J. Sterling Morton. Since his death a century ago, Arbor Day has come to be celebrated in all 50 American states and in many countries around the world.
04/26/02 -- Here we go again: The Bush Administration still things corporations are more important than our environment: Rule Could Let Mine Debris Fill in Valleys and Streams — The Bush administration is preparing to allow the coal mining industry to fill waterways and valleys with the rock and dirt from mountaintop mining, particularly in West Virginia. But a proposal being circulated excludes trash, used tires, junked cars and discarded kitchen appliances as fill in waterways unless they are part of a structure, like artificial reefs or berms. The rule, which officials said was still being fine-tuned, is expected to be made final within two months. (April 26, 2002) The New York Times on the Web
04/26/02 -- Here is a way you can help our environment: As a first step in the Bush administration's energy policy, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is proposing that the oil industry be allowed to drill as many as 80,000 oil and gas wells in the spectacular Powder River Basin in northeastern Wyoming and southeastern Montana. BLM's proposal will be accompanied by massive road construction, with severe impacts to the huge deer, elk, and antelope herds in the area. The BLM is currently accepting comments for the Environmental Impact Statement for their drilling proposal for the Powder River Basin. Follow the link below to go to a web page where you can e-mail the BLM and register your opposition to their proposal. http://pirg.org/alerts/route.asp?id=308&id4=ES --from U.S. PIRG Home
04/25/02 -- Here in New York State we have a great big problem and seemingly little interest. The state doesn't have any money to clean up its Brownfields. Considering that there are 47 such sights in Rochester alone, where industries have left a chemical mess and the public has to clean it up, I'd say that's pretty high on the scale of concern. Here's the latest: State wants to spend millions to clean up chemical site in Brighton - The State of New York wants to spend more than $3 million dollars to clean up a Brighton chemical site. But there`s one problem: The state`s superfund program for cleaning up toxic waste sites is out of money. The contaminated area is the former Scobell Chemical Company in the old can of worms. The company operated there from the 1920`s until the mid 1980`s. (April 25, 2002) MSNBC Local News
04/24/02 --In his address on sprawl to the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club's 4th Environmental Forum last week, Mayor William Johnson expressed his view on the importance of grassroots organizations that work for our environment. I cannot think of a more influential and helpful group than the group Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides (RAMP). In today's news is spectacular example of grassroots environmentalism taking the lead in protecting our environment. (Maybe someday RAMP will get on the web with their own site) Bill addresses poisonous playgrounds Local legislators seek to ban the sale of potentially hazardous pressure-treated lumber for playgrounds. New York could become the first state to ban the sale of potentially hazardous pressure-treated lumber for use in public playgrounds. "We're thrilled," said Judy Braiman, co-founder of Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides. "This would be the first statewide bill in the country, as far as we know." Rochestarians Against the Misuse of Pesticides have long protested the use of CCA treated lumber. (April 24, 2002) Henrietta Post
04/24/02 -- Today's environmental news includes yet another species (during the Sixth Great Extinction) on its way to extinction due to human activities. (If you wish to help species in trouble go to GreenSolitaire.org's Environmental Causes) Pacific Sea Turtles Diving Toward Extinction SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Giant Pacific leatherback sea turtles are on a fast track to extinction as commercial fishing and man-made destruction of their beach nesting areas threaten to wipe out the 150 million-year-old species, scientists said on Tuesday. Speaking at the Leatherback International Survival Conference in Monterey, researchers said only a handful of females returned to nesting beaches along the Pacific coast last season -- down from thousands who did so just 20 years ago. (April 24, 2002) Yahoo News.
04/23/02 -- Nader Speaks. I hope everyone gets this message: "Nader encouraged students and community members to get involved in the fight for the environment in whatever way possible." --from Nader issues call to action in Earth Day talk at IC - Local/Regional - theithacajournal.com - The Ithaca Journal ITHACA -- Ralph Nader, former Green Party presidential candidate, said in a speech Monday night at Ithaca College that corporations are ravaging the environment while the government does little to stop them. Nader spoke to a crowd of 2,000 people packed into the college's Ben Light Gymnasium as part of the 32nd annual Earth Day celebrations. (April 23, 2002) theithacajournal.com - News and Information from Ithaca and Tompkins County, New York - The Ithaca Journal
04/23/02 -- Major story about the influence of the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club on our environment: Democrat & Chronicle: City agrees to logging moratorium — The city of Rochester has agreed to a two-year moratorium against logging three specific stands of trees on the shores of Hemlock Lake. "We'e basically happy" with the city's decision, said Hugh Mitchell, chairman of the Sierra Club Rochester Regional Group. (April 23, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
04/23/02 -- Wouldn't it be great to have a viable light rail system in Rochester, instead of the car problem we now have in the city? Find out more: Rochester Rail Transit Committee The RRTC is a §501c not-for-profit, grassroots citizen's group dedicated to exploring and promoting the opportunities of rail transit in the greater Rochester, NY area. The goals of the Rochester Rail Transit Committee are to: Inform community leaders about rail transit options and their benefits, Educate the public about the benefits and possibilities of rail transit
Promote all modes of transit, including bus transit
04/23/02 -- Just what is the environmental history of the Hudson River, where the massive PCB cleanup is going on? Find out: Charting a Course of Negligence and Splendor Tonight and tomorrow, in "America's First River: Bill Moyers on the Hudson," he and his producers offer a richly textured vision of a river's effect on a country's history, art, literature and environmental politics. This four-hour documentary uses as its central metaphor the Native American name for the Hudson, Muhheakunnuk: loosely, "the river that flows both ways." Its scientific designation, less poetic but easier to pronounce, is estuary, the place where salty tides meet freshwater currents. (April 23, 2002) The New York Times on the Web
04/22/02 -- It's Earth Day: Democrat & Chronicle: Earth Day activists thrive The Sierra Club's Mitchell worries about the environmental consequences if Rochester sells its 19th-century water system to the county Water Authority. At risk, he said, is open land around the system's protected lakes. (April 2, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
04/22/02 -- Is nuclear power safe? Because nuclear power is the linchpin of Vice President Cheney's Energy Policy, it is important to look at the viability of this form of energy for our future--not to mention the safety of our nuclear reactor plants today.. Aging nuclear reactor cores, specifically the Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Planet located east of Toledo in Oak Harbor, Ohio, on the shore of Lake Erie should send up warning flags: Find out more: Read this from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission: Reactor Vessel Head Degradation Get a full explanation of the problem from the Union of Concerned Scientists: UCS -- Aging Nuclear Plants -- Davis-Besse: The Reactor with a Hole in its Head and read the article at Environmental Media Services: EMS - Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Plant
04/21/02 -- Event: Important Earth Day Program -NY Rochester Mon 4-22-02 10 pm WXXI - (Empty Oceans, Empty Nets | PBS): Oceans at Risk.com - The Campaign to End Destructive Fishing This Earth Day, we have a rare opportunity to learn more about the decline in one of the earth's most important resources – the oceans. On or near Monday, April 22, 2002, PBS stations around the country will be airing Empty Oceans, Empty Nets, a powerful new documentary on the rapidly declining fish harvests of the world. Learn more about the show.
Watch the 30-second Real Video Preview of Empty Oceans, Empty Nets
04/21/02 -- Find out about: Earth Native Network -- Monthly discussion group and community education on topics of sustainability, simple living and non-violence. Are Are Welcome. We are the local organizers of Northwest Earth Institute-Courses in Voluntary Simplicity, Bioregionalism, Deep Ecology and Sustainability ENN also publishes the Green Yellow Pages, a listing of (mostly) Rochester are organizations devoted to a peaceful, sustainable future. Questions? Contact Mary Gleason at 585-385-1502 or gleason@frontiernet.net
04/21/02 -- Event: The Genesee Land Trust will be holding a Native Plant Sale on Saturday May18 from 8:30 AM until 2:00 PM at the
Brighton Town Hall,3200 Elmwood Ave (between Monroe Ave and South Clinton). We will feature unusual perennials, shrubs, and trees. Not your typical Plant Sale assortment. Come early for best selection. The Genesee Land Trust preserves and protects land within the Greater Rochester area, including waterways, wetlands, farmland, open space, fish and wildlife habitat, and scenic or recreational areas. The Trust does so by acquiring property or development rights and by assisting government agencies, individuals, and private groups with their own land protection efforts. The Trust is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization supported by membership fees, grants, and other contributions. Donations to the Genesee Land Trust are tax-deductible. For more information about the Genesee Land Trust, please contact GLT Executive Director Gay Mills at our administrative offices at 716-381-7310 or glt@frontiernet.net.
04/19/02 -- Don't forget Earth Day. Lots of activities for you and your family on Earth Day. Check RochesterEnvironment.com's Environmental Calendar. http://www.localendar.com/public/FrankRxRx
04/19/02 -- Here we go again. The Bush Administration just doesn't get it: Bush Favors Dozens of Sites for Exploration The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska was not the only place where the Bush administration was hoping to find more oil. It is also encouraging drilling at more than 50 new sites in the lower 48 states, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. The energy bill passed last year by the House includes a provision directing the administration to make it easier for oil and gas companies to obtain federal leases and permits to drill for oil and gas. That version will have to be reconciled with the Senate's. The New York Times on the Web
04/19/02 -- This from the Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club: PRESIDENT BUSH IS COMING TO THE ADIRONDACKS ON MONDAY, APRIL 22ND! JOIN US TO RALLY FOR CLEAN AIR AND PROTEST THE BUSH AIR PLAN! * President Bush, Administrator Whitman, Governor Pataki, Congressmen Sweeney, Boehlert and McHugh will be at White Face Mountain in the Adirondacks to tout Bush's clean air plan, and discuss conservation and trail restoration. * The Bush plan is weaker than the current Clean Air Act, it fails to address all the 4 major air contaminants belched out by power plants - and would significantly increase the use of coal. President Bush has chosen to spend Earth Day in the Adirondacks and we'll greet him with our own Earth Day message: WE WANT CLEAN AIR, NOT POLLUTER'S LIES AND DIRTY SKIES! Join us to rally for Clean Air and to tell President Bush what Earth
Day is really about! And spread the word! Please send this alert far and wide. Details: When: Monday, April 22nd, Meet at 10:30am, Rally begins at 11:00am, President will speak at 12:00pm, Where: White Face Mountain, Wilmington, NY, Meet at White Face Ski Area parking lot (Off Rte. 86, approx. 20 minutes from Lake Placid) Who: Local and National environmental groups, citizens, families... and many others! For more information, call: Baret Pinyoun (Sierra Club), 518-587-9166, cell: 518-281-1814 Mark Bettinger (Sierra Club), 518-587-9166, cell: 518-796-2540
04/19/02 -- If you were able to attend the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club's Fourth Environmental Forum, then you got to see and hear two great environmentalist, Mayor William Johnson, and Aaron Mair, chairperson for the Atlantic Chapter (all of New York) Sierra Club and the twenty or so environmental groups promoting their projects. If not, over the next few weeks I will post as much of the material as I can from these Rochester-area environmental groups who hope to improve our environment. One of the things Mayor Johnson mentioned last night was the critical importance grassroots groups (like RochesterEnvironment.com) have in shaping what happens in and out of our government on our environment. Democrat & Chronicle: Johnson addresses Sierra Club — Mayor William A. Johnson Jr. used an annual Sierra Club forum to expand on his regional agenda of smart growth, consolidated government and environmental justice. He spoke to an audience of 150 Thursday night at the First Unitarian Church of Rochester. In private remarks before his talk, he outlined city plans to use $3.5 million in federal grants over two years to fund lead abatement programs.(April 19, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
04/19/02 -- It is clear that the American people do not want and increase in nuclear power (because no one wants nuclear waste in their back yard) and that we do not want our National Parks dug up for oil. What now George Bush? U.S. Senate kills Bush plan for Alaska drilling - 4/19/2002 - ENN.com In a big defeat for the Bush administration's national energy plan, the Democratic-led U.S. Senate on Thursday killed a White House proposal to let oil companies drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Republicans failed to get the 60 votes needed under Senate rules to end debate on the controversial proposal and to block a threatened filibuster by Democrats. (April 19, 2002) Environmental News Network - ENN.com
04/18/02 --City of Toronto: Waterfront How important is the fast ferry project between Rochester and Toronto to the Canadians?
04/17/02 -- This from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) -- "EPA RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative - Homepage WASTE PROPERTIES TO COMMERCIAL, RESIDENTIAL, OTHER USE EPA has launched a new website to promote the cleanup and reuse of brownfield properties across the nation that are regulated by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Called the RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative website, it will provide state and tribal governments and the public easy access to useful information about the reuse of brownfield properties where hazardous waste was generated, treated, stored or disposed. Despite the existence of redevelopment potential for residential, industrial, commercial, recreational or greenspace (undeveloped property) use, many of these RCRA properties are not in full usage because of real or perceived concerns about actual or potential contamination, legal liability and RCRA requirements. EPA established the initiative to encourage the reuse of potential RCRA brownfields so the land better serves the needs of the community. RCRA gives EPA the authority to control hazardous waste from "cradle-to-grave," including generation, treatment, storage and disposal. RCRA generally focuses on active and future facilities and is designed to prevent future Superfund sites and brownfields. The RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative links RCRA facilities with the brownfields program to help use economic redevelopment as an engine that drives environmental cleanup. Brownfields are properties whose expansion, redevelopment or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance. For more information about the initiative, see: http://www.epa.gov/swerosps/rcrabf/index.html For more information on the RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative link, visit: www.epa.gov/swerosps/rcrabf/ For general information on the U.S. EPA's Brownfields Program, visit: www.epa.gov/brownfields/
04/17/02 -- From the Sierra Club: I Want My MPG Main - Sierra Club "Fuel economy can be fun! You'll save money and help the environment. Got Flash? Sit back and enjoy the movie! Our MPG Calculator makes it easy to see how much money you'll save once fuel economy standards are improved."
04/16/02 -- With the warm weather and sun, it's that time of year again. Time to think about West Nile Virus: Monroe County Health department ready to do battle with the West Nile Virus - With the warm weather upon us, the mosquitoes are already here. The Monroe County Health Department says the West Nile Virus doesn't become a problem until late summer, but preventative efforts start now. (April 16, 2002) MSNBC Local News
04/16/02 -- The chemicals we use and allow to flow into our environment--we have no clue as to the full extent of their damage: Yahoo! News - Weedkiller Makes Male Frogs Into Females-Study WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The most popular weedkiller in the United States can give male frogs female sex organs and other attributes, researchers said on Monday, in a study that could shed light on the global decline in amphibian populations. Very low levels of the herbicide atrazine can cause male frogs to grow female sex organs and curtail their croaks -- key to attracting mates in the frog world -- a team at the University of California Berkeley found. (April 16, 2002) Yahoo! News.
04/16/02 -- The desperate condition our environment is not the sole reign of democrats, liberals, and so-called "nature lovers." The religious community is committed to the health of our environment also. Interfaith Climate Change Network "The Interfaith Climate Change Network (ICCN) is a collaborative effort of the Eco-Justice Working Group of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA and the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life. The ICCN’s goal is to pursue justice for the poor around the world and protect all life on Earth by taking action to address global climate change. We hope that you'll become part of the network and make your voice heard in our campaign to protect the Earth's climate. In order to support the efforts of congregations, communities, and families, we also provide many educational, programmatic, and action resources. We urge you to join the network and to tell your friends and family how easy it is to get involved. To learn more about climate change and what our organizations are doing to help on this issue and others, check out our websites..."
04/15/02 -- If you do not know all about the CSX Train accident, of December 23 of 2001, The Democrat and Chronicle - through a Freedom of Information Act request - obtained 330 pages of documents detailing correspondence between the city and CSX, company lawyers and cleanup contractor, Department of Environmental Conservation and Monroe County Health Department. The letters back and forth indicate the city has little confidence that CSX will properly and quickly clean up the area.
04/15/02 -- This from the Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club: This is an article about ANWR and the pro-drilling video on the Dept. of the Interior 's Web page. To vote scroll to the bottom left hand corner of the page. currently 53% say yes - 45% say no 3% undecided MSNBC is conducting another poll on drilling in ANWR. Right now the pro-drilling is in the lead - not a good thing.Could we fix this, if we sent everyone to go vote? http://www.msnbc.com/news/719581.asp
04/14/02 -- Don't forget: The biggest Environmental Event of the year in Rochester: Environmental Forum Coming: Mark your Calendar now. The 4th Annual Sierra Club Environmental Forum will be on Thursday, April 18. Rochester Mayor William A. Johnson, Jr. will be the keynote speaker at the annual gather of the regional environmental community sponsored by the Sierra Club and the Choices & Environment Task Force of the First Unitarian Church. He will be speaking on the cost of sprawl to the environment and the economy. Mayor Johnson is expected to emphasize the environmental justice ramifications of sprawl as applied to the poor. Last year approximately 23 groups had booths and displays at the Forum. This year we expect many more, so mark your calendar now and plan to come to the First Unitarian Church, Thursday, April 18th. Displays and booths open at 6:00 PM. The program begins a t 7:30 PM.
04/13/02 -- A Rochester-area company for our environment: Our company, IMG inc. Ozone Engineering, is new environmental service provider in the Rochester area. Ozone as you know is what protects us from UV radiation from the sun, what you may not know is that ozone is also nature's purifying agent. Ozone or activated oxygen is a highly effective oxidizing agent. Our company wishes to inform others about the potential uses of ozone. One of the primary services we provide is odor removal. For example, smoke odors in smoke damaged buildings and residences can be totally removed using high concentrations of ozone. Some other uses include water purification, food preservation, mold removal, chemical cleanup, commercial laundry (eliminating need for hot water and detergents), dry cleaning, and many more. We are currently talking to Diaz chemical in Holley offering our services in removing the chemical residue from the homes affected by the chemical spill. One obstacle we face is the negative perceptions people have regarding ozone. We hope you will therefore consider putting a link to our web site on the Rochester Environment web site. If after visiting our web site http://www.img-ozone.com you have any questions regarding ozone or our company please feel free to give me a call at 964-9459. Sincerely Peter J. Sucy, Chief Technical Officer, IMG incorporated, Ozone Engineering, 27 Rand Place, Pittsford, NY 14534
04/13/02 -- Please attend this Rochester-area Earth Day Event: Get a better understanding of the environmental issues that face our society. MCC Earth Day, Monday, April 22, 2002, Monroe Community College, Brighton Campus, 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. to find out more, contact Jason Vinette, MCC SGA, jvinette001@student.monroecc.edu
04/13/02 -- Are you a student in College? Need an environmental job this summer? Summer Opportunity for Students The Midwest Academy--a national training institute for organizers with a superb track record spanning three decades--will be sponsoring paid, supervised organizing internships in about 12 states. Interns will be placed with statewide social change organizations associated with the new national progressive network USAction. Internships will last for 10 weeks, starting June 3, and will include training. The stipend is $2500.
04/13/02 -- This just in Event: COME CELEBRATE THE 180th BIRTHDAY OF FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED ON FRIDAY APRIL 26TH AT 6:00PM BY JOINING THE FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS OF SENECA PARK IN A PICNIC IN THE HAWK SHELTER IN LOWER SENECA PARK. FNSP WILL PROVIDE BIRTHDAY CAKE, TABLE SETTINGS AND JUICE/SODA. TIM O'CONNEL AND JOANNE BECK HAVE OFFERED TO GIVE AN AFTER DINNER TOUR OF THE HISTORIC PARK. IF YOU WISH TO JOIN US, PLEASE BRING A DISH TO PASS AND EMAIL MIRIAM GANZE AT JGANZE@ROCHESTER.RR.COM by 4/22. SO WE CAN BE SURE TO HAVE ADEQUATE SUPPLIES. CHILDREN ARE ALWAYS WELCOME. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!! If you wish to invite the members of your organizations, please contact them and take care of your own RSVP. We need numbers to know how much cake and how many paper products we will need. Please contact me by 4/22 with your numbers of guests. We are also inviting some honored guests ( some members of the county legislature, Frank Allkofer etc.) who will not be asked to bring a dish to pass. We are asking the representatives of the various Alliance groups to please bring a "nicer" dish ( read: eschew jello or chips) Thanks. We are hoping for a decent turn out, good weather and lots
of positive press.
04/13/02 -- Warmer weather is coming, time to think about Rabies: Town residents alerted to rabies' protection As warmer weather approaches, animal control officers issue some do's and don'ts. A Greece man's recent exposure to rabies serves as a reminder to town residents that they need to be careful around wild animals, according to Pete Braggins, Greece animal control officer. (April 11, 2002) Greece Post
04/13/02 -- Take Action for the environment. From the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club: Crunch Time on the Arctic! At last, the moment of truth has arrived. The biggest environmental struggle of the last twenty years could come to a vote this week, as the Senate prepares to consider Arctic drilling. And we need one final push from you. Drilling the Arctic would destroy one of our last remaining areas of pristine wilderness for six months worth of oil, doing nothing to increase our energy independence. Let your senators know you're watching what they do. Call the Senate switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask for your senators. Then click below to send an email directly to them: http://www.sierraclub.org/action/?alid=18&st=curr
04/13/02 -- Event: Thinking of things to do on Earth Day? Environmental Advocates -- Earth Day Lobby Day Power in numbers. Join hundreds of activists and students from across the state, and countless local, state and national environmental groups for New York's largest annual environmental event. Hear from government and environment leaders, learn about current legislation, and lobby on key issues like: genetically modified organisms; siting cleaner power plants; environmental cleanups; healthy schools full EPF funding; and an expanded bottle bill Newcomers and students are especially welcome! The schedule. Earth Day Lobby Day 2002 will be held on Monday, April 22 at the Legislative Office Building in Albany from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. There will be speeches from leading government and environment officials, issue briefings and a how-to-lobby workshop in the morning. After a noon rally, lobby key legislators or participate in our afternoon workshops. Click here for a more detailed schedule. For more information, email: edld@eany.org or contact Laura DiBetta at 518-462-5526, ext. 221. http://www.eany.org/public_html/edld02/edld_home.html
04/13/02 -- Event: KODAK KIDS CLEAN AIR CAMPAIGN - STATEWIDE DAY OF ACTION FOR CLEAN AIR AT KODAK – APRIL 25TH!!! STOP KODAK’S TOXIC EMISSIONS!!! Join us in front of Kodak's Building 218 hazardous waste incinerator for a press conference to call on CEO Daniel Carp to making a commitment to phasing out Kodak's hazardous waste incinerators. When: Thursday April 25th, 12:45pm - Where: In front of Kodak's Building 218 hazardous waste incinerator on Lancaster St. (right off Ridge Rd). What: Students and community members from across New York State are gearing up to take part in the first ever Statewide Kodak Day of Action on April 25th, the day that the "Learning Not to Burn - a primer for citizens on alternatives to burning hazardous waste" report will be released. Other Rochester area events include tabling at the University of Rochester and SUNY Brockport, in addition to press conferences and events across the state in cities like Albany and Buffalo. Citizens and students across New York State will be organizing to raise awareness in their communities and on their campuses about Kodak’s toxic emissions and the alternatives to incineration, and pressuring their administration to vote on an upcoming shareholder resolution. In addition – people will be leafleting and organizing media events at retail locations that sell Kodak products and raising awareness in the community. WARNING: KODAK’S TOXIC EMISSIONS MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH WANT MORE INFORMATION? Check out our Kodak campaign website at www.kodakstoxiccolors.org Organized by Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, the Kandid Coalition, the NYS Greens, and more. Mike Schade, Citizens' Environmental Coalition, 425 Elmwood Ave. Suite 200,Buffalo, NY 14222,(716) 885-6848,(716) 885-6845 fax
cecwny@buffnet.net, www.cectoxic.org Be sure to check out our new Kodak campaign website: www.kodakstoxiccolors.org
04/13/02 -- The Lake Guardian is in town. Check it out: Onboard the U.S. EPA Research Vessel R/V Lake Guardian The Research Vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian is the only self-contained, non-polluting research ship on the Great Lakes. The continuing work that is being done on this vessel is helping up solve environmental problems not only in the Great Lakes but in fresh waters throughout the world.
04/10/02 -- Our community does not get it. The real eyesore from energy is not sustainable energy sources, like coal-burning that produces Acid Rain and Nuclear energy that creates a dangerous problem in these terrorist times and an insurmountable problem in getting rid of the waste. Ontario County Residents Fear Wind Turbines Would Be An Eyesore South Bristol, NY - Some people in South Bristol, Ontario County, are worried that electricity-generating windmills would destroy the rural character of their town. South Bristol resident Phelps Greene got about 50 of his neighbors to sign a petition asking for a moratorium on any action regarding windmills in the town. He gave it to the town board this week. (April 11, 2002) iKnowRochester.com
04/10/02 -- Program your VCR: What: Bill Moyers documentary, The Hudson River America’s First River,When: April 23 and 24, Time: 9 to 11 PM Eastern time on PBS (check local listings) Why: A great opportunity to get together with your river friends!, From AmericanRivers.org -- On April 23 and 24, Journalist Bill Moyers will take a journey down “America’s First River” – the Hudson River – in a special documentary. Tune in for an exploration of how this river helped shape American history and culture, and how it inspired the environmental movement. This program is a great opportunity for people across the country to raise public awareness about their own rivers and watersheds. American Rivers - Preview the documentary
04/09/02 -- It's April and you know what that means: Earthjustice: Earth Day 2002 Earthjustice is celebrating Earth Day all during the month of April, and you're invited! Each week, we'll post information about things you can do to ensure that our pristine wilderness areas, precious natural resources, and healthy environment are preserved for future generations. Ever get into a discussion about the environment and wish you had a few strong facts in your pocket? This week, we'll give you the key points on three important environmental concerns. Print 'em out, put 'em in your pocket, never be unprepared again.
04/09/02 -- President Bush and his vice president want to solve our energy problems with the very controversial nuclear power plant idea. No environmental pollution, they say. Well, this story shows that it is going to be a hard sell to anyone who will have to deal the the nuclear waste. We cannot solve the problems of present nuclear waste--let alone an increase in nuclear power plants. Nevada governor vetoes Bush on nuclear waste site Congress has 90 days to act In the first-ever veto of a president by a governor, Nevada Gov. Kenny Guinn on Monday overturned President Bush’s decision to designate a Nevada mountain bunker as the nation’s nuclear waste repository. But the veto doesn’t end the debate — in fact, it now means that Congress must approve or reject the Yucca Mountain site within 90 days. (April 7, 2002) Environment Front Page 3:15 PM ET Tuesday, April 09, 2002
04/07/02 -- Event: May 30, 2002 - Lake Ontario Algae Cause & Solution Workshop, Co-sponsored by: Monroe County Department of Health, New York Sea Grant, New York Great Lakes Research Consortium, Water Education Collaborative - A one-day workshop to examine the factors contributing to algae growth in Lake Ontario and the potential solutions to manage its growth and accumulation. Speakers from Universities, Environment Canada, Sea Grant Extension, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will present. Subjects will include basic biology of algae growth, recent research and trends, Lake Ontario algae bloom history, overview of past efforts to manage algae, and new ideas being evaluated for algae management. Workshop will include solicitation of ideas for solutions and future research needs. Meeting Location: Greece Town Hall, Monroe County, New York , Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. , Registration: Pre-registration will be required. A modest fee will be charged. Registration information and details on the workshop will be sent under separate cover. If you have any questions, please contact: Karen Paris Tuori, Monroe County Health Dept. (716) 274-6397 kparistuori@mc.rochester.lib.ny.us Helen Domske, New York Sea Grant, (716) 645-3610, hmd4@cornell.edu
04/07/02 -- Event: Find out all about Brownfields: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS Brownfields 2002 Call For Presentations "Investing in the Future" NOVEMBER 13-15, 2002 The Charlotte Convention Center Charlotte, North Carolina THE "CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS" IS NOW US ON THE WEB FOR THE "BROWNFIELDS 2002" CONFERENCE - TO BE HELD THIS YEAR
IN THE GREAT CITY OF CHARLOTTE, NC NOVEMBER 13-15, 2002. ABSTRACTS ARE DUE MAY 15 .... SO HURRY AND GET YOUR PAPERS SUBMITTED, IF YOU WISH TO BE A PRESENTER. You may log on to www.brownfields2002.org
if you are interested in submitting a presentation for the Brownfields 2002 Conference. Interested in being an Endorser for the Conference?
(Don't worry - it won't cost you a dime.....only a little of your time to help us get the word out.) Check out the web page: http://www.brownfields2002.org/ The web site includes up-to-date conference information, including the request for presentations, scholarships, the endorser form and a link to the Phoenix Awards. Hope to see you in North Carolina! If you need further information, please contact: Marilyn S. Allen, Brownfields 2002 Coordinator, EPA Region 4 - 10th floor, 61 Forsyth Street, Atlanta, GA 30303, (404) 562-8598, (404) 562-9964 fax, e-mail:allen.marilyn@epa.gov
04/05/02 -- This from the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club Fuel Cells Fuel cells are becoming the leading alternative to internal combustion engines. These are efficient, clean engines that are capable of powering cars, busses, homes, hospitals.... The major emission of a fuel cell engine is water vapor, the fuel used is hydrogen and can be derived from many sources. These engines are eco friendly and are a major factor in America's efforts to reduce our dependence on oil. All of the major automotive companies have fuel cell powered vehicles in testing or development right now. This is a very exciting time to be involved with alternative energy sources. To learn more about fuel cells and how to get involved check out http://www.fuelcells.org To get involved with the Sierra Club energy group send an e-mail to rochester_energy_group@hotmail.com or call Eric Smith at 576-1421. Check out our web page, http-.newyork. sierraclub. org/rochester/enerw. htm
04/05/02 -- So, our country has dropped the ball on Global Warming, but that doesn't mean the whole world has. What is the present state of the Kyoto Protocol? Find out the updates here: WWF International | Newsroom | Story of the Day | Ratification of the Kyoto Climate Treaty - the progress so far
04/05/02 -- Is Canada more environmentally responsible than the US? Canada to toughen new-vehicle pollution rules - 4/5/2002 - ENN.com OTTAWA — Canada said Thursday it will toughen pollution emission rules for all new vehicles, ending a loophole that allowed less stringent standards for popular sport utility vehicles and minivans. The new regulations, announced by Environment Minister David Anderson, will bring standards for passenger cars into line with those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (April 5, 2002) Enn.com
04/05/02 - Event: Freedom of Information and Open Meeting Law Forum, FREE PROGRAM: Wednesday, April 10, 7:00-9:00 PM
Co-sponsored by: The League of Women Voters -- As state and local government services increase and public problems become more sophisticated and complex and therefore harder to solve, and with the resultant increase in revenues and expenditures, it is incumbent upon the state and its localities to extend public accountability wherever and whenever feasible. —Section 84, Freedom of Information Law
As New York State citizens, we have perhaps become complacent about our longstanding freedoms. By learning more about the balance of rights that exists between government agencies and citizens, we gain an understanding of just how important it is to preserve these freedoms. In this forum, our speaker will introduce us to three important laws: The Freedom of Information Law, The Open Meetings Law and the Personal Privacy Protection Law.--from Downtown Community Forum
Opportunity to get involved in your local environment: From this week's City (April 3-9, 2002) Rochester Newsweekly Alternative. Drawing The Line: Part One. Zoning Out: Celebrating 'Rochester Urban' by Cindy Mindell-Wong The new zoning draft and map is available at City, Hall, city libraries, NET offices, and online at www.ci.rochester.ny.us; click on "City Code Online." The public is invited to a series of informational meetings in the various sectors through April, and is asked to submit verbal or written comments by May 15. The city will accept written input from May 15 until the draft is submitted to City Council in August. But it's best to weigh in while the commissions are engaged in their review process, when members can address specific concerns in person.
Event: What to do to protect the white deer herd at the former Seneca Army Depot will be a topic of discussion at next Tuesday's Seneca County Board of Supervisors meeting. The board will hear a presentation by Seneca White Deer, Inc. on their proposal for eco-touring in the Conservation Area at the Romulus site. The presentation will show the economic value that such eco-tourism could bring to the county and region. (April 4, 2002) The Town Crier News -- http://www.thetowncrier.com
04/04/02 -- Smart Growth Policy Forum Each year APA conducts a special policy forum during the National Planning Conference to examine critical issues in public policy related to smart growth planning. Featured Speakers William Johnson, Jr., Mayor of Rochester, New York
04/03/02 -- This proposal for an environmental study is not merely a good idea; it's is absolutely critical if we are to even begin to have an science-based attitude towards our environment. Also, we need to have a planet-wide biodiversity study to examine what biology we have left and how it works in its entirety. Without these studies, it is impossible to have a science-based environmental policy because we do not have all the facts. We cannot continue to make environmental decisions about our planet based on present scientific knowledge because we don' have the full picture.
- LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL: NEWS: Bill seeks tracking of disease outbreaks Sens. Harry Reid, D-Nev., and Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., introduced legislation Thursday to track whether clusters of cancer, diabetes and other chronic diseases may be linked to community environmental hazards. (April 3, 2002) LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
- Senators aim to track disease clusters Democratic senators introduced a bill Thursday to create a national tracking database for clusters of chronic diseases. Clusters like an unexplained concentration of children diagnosed with leukemia in Fallon. (April 3, 2002) Northern Nevada's Most Complete News and Information Source - Reno Gazette-Journal