October 2008 - Online

Archived articles for
the week of
October 27 - October 31, 2008

Environmental:

Green investors confident despite financial storm

The current credit crisis affecting world financial markets is raising questions about companies being able to find enough capital to pursue their renewable energy projects. The recent drop in natural gas and crude oil prices is also threatening the allure of alternative fuels. As a result, the clean energy sector has seen its share prices fall dramatically over the last few weeks.

New state agency releases payments for wolf kills

Despite dwindling funds, a new state board charged with considering financial claims for livestock killed by wolves doled out $28,000 last week and approved an agreement allowing payments on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

A Convenient Book About the Environment

Anyone concerned about the environment and seeking the best solutions for how to protect it will find The Really Inconvenient Truths, by Iain Murray, to be a valuable, fact-filled resource that is both informative and entertaining.

Debunking the “global warming” hoax
A Snowy Halloween

Some folks in my home state of New Jersey woke up to a blanket of snow the same week as Halloween. The state’s largest daily headlined the story as “October Surprise: Snowfall snarls traffic and cuts power to 62,000 homes.” In a swath of northern counties, snow fell as if it were mid-winter. Fourteen inches of snow fell at High Point State Park.

Wyoming proposes changes in its wolf plan

Wyoming is revising its gray wolf management plan in hopes of placating concerns about providing enough protection for the animals, but environmentalists said the changes are inadequate because wolves can still be shot on sight in most of the state.

Feeling cold, thinking hot

Treasurer Wayne Swan had to get out of his woollies yesterday before telling us the world really was warming - and we must pay. You see, just days before he stood in Canberra, waving a Treasury document he claimed would help stop us heating to hell, his own family had shivered through a day that should make him finally wonder if there really is any global warming.

Climate Change: Science and Policy

It's been an interesting couple of years in the climate policy arena. Al Gore and the IPCC won the Nobel Prize; Cap-and-trade legislation was floated and quickly killed in Congress; Europe's carbon-trading system has melted down; Post-Kyoto negotiations are in a shambles; China became the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter; the climate stopped warming and started cooling; and now we have an economic crisis that will make expensive climate policy risky and unpopular.

City firm to pay $2M environmental fine

A city shellac firm and its parent company have agreed to pay the second largest environmental fine in state history for alleged violations of anti-pollution laws. State Attorney General Martha Coakley today announced what she called a landmark settlement agreement with Mantrose-Haeuser Co. Inc. and Zinsser Co. Inc.

Second Planet Needed to Meet Natural-Resources Demand

That's what humans will need by the mid-2030s to keep up with our demand for metals, fossil fuels, timber and waste disposal, the environmental group WWF said in a global survey that found the United Arab Emirates to be the most wasteful country.

Today's Topic: Environment

At a glance, Barack Obama and John McCain appear to have similar positions on environmental issues. But environmental groups point to clear differences, especially on how far they are willing to go to reduce air pollution and regulate private industry.

Climate change facts among all the hot air

Hard facts on climate change and carbon trading have finally emerged from the fog of speculation, confusion and misinformation surrounding the issues and their implications for business.

Salmon study yields surprise result

Scientists tracking juvenile salmon migrating downstream to the Pacific were surprised to find just as many or more survived going over eight dams on the Northwest's Snake and Columbia Rivers as survived a major river in British Columbia without any dams at all.

Another Attempt For Delisting Gray Wolves

The Bush administration will once again try to take the gray wolf of the northern Rockies off the federal endangered species list. The proposal was first made in 2007 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, but it was rejected in court this summer, after a legal battle with conservationists. It seems that the government will open a comment period on Tuesday that will last until November the 28th.

It’s Not Easy Being Green

Kermit the Frog poured his heart out when he sang, “It’s Not Easy Being Green.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. In fact, it’s quite costly to be green. But policymakers and environmentalists alike are purporting the ‘Green Revolution’ as the solution to both our financial woes and our environmental concerns.

Greenpeace fires away at coal

Dozens of Kansans gathered Sunday afternoon in front of the Lawrence Energy Center, run by Westar Energy, to bring attention to the dangers of coal. “Coal is one of the major emitters of greenhouse pollution,” said Suzanne Graham, the global warming field organizer for Greenpeace. “If we don’t get rid of coal or at least phase it out and move toward a renewable energy economy, we’re not going to stop global warming.”

Property Rights:

Shelton company fights zoning change

The city's proposal to rezone McCallum Enterprises' Shelton Canal property amounts to nothing more than an attempt to devalue the land and buy it cheap, the company's managing partner told the Planning and Zoning Commission.

City stops shy of taking pair’s land without telling them

Benton City Council members were about to vote on an ordinance that would have acquired a portion of a couple’s property through eminent domain when Jerrell and Brenda Page told the council they were caught unaware by the situation.

County decides to stop appeal of McMillan lawsuit

Hamilton County no longer plans to appeal a judge's verdict on an eminent domain lawsuit that would have added parking in downtown Noblesville and room for possible future development.

Skokie officials optimistic for eminent domain settlement

The owners of property occupied by a Dempster Street automobile shop were scheduled this week to have their day in court to fight the village's efforts to acquire the land for future redevelopment.

Reelfoot lawsuit dismissed
Co-owners of a Reelfoot Lake lodge have lost Round 1 in their federal lawsuit against state wildlife officials.

Natalie Hornbeak-Denton and her daughter, Ann Hornbeak, filed an action in U.S. District Court in Jackson against members of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Commission. They claim certain acts by state wildlife officials violated their civil rights as guaranteed by the First and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

More Land Needed For West Corridor Light Rail
180 Property Owners Being Notified

Letters to 180 private property owners were being finalized and sent out Wednesday after the RTD Board gave the green light a day earlier for the next phase of FasTracks construction.

Water rights issue hinges on state constitutional change

Creating a state constitutional amendment that protects private property owners' use of ground and surface water on their land is the goal of Issue 3, a proposal with an unusual history. Issue 3 — one of the questions voters will face on Election Day — is an off-shoot of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact, legislation passed by eight Great Lakes states and Congress. Two Canadian provinces, Quebec and Ontario, also signed on. President Bush signed it into law Oct. 3.

Cities ask for more pull in planning of gas pipelines

Barnett Shale cities large and small have joined a mounting refrain asking the Texas Legislature for more authority in saying where natural gas transmission pipelines are built inside their corporate limits.

RTD seeks more land by eminent domain

RTD is about to notify 180 more property owners along the FasTracks West Corridor light-rail project that it needs some of their land - 306 parcels, to be exact.

Marshall County set to address property rights

The Marshall County Commission is expected to address a local group's recent flier calling for a repeal of the state's Limited Self-Governance Act at a November 20 work session. Chairman Douglas Fleming told the commission Monday the flier is "full of inaccuracies" that need to be addressed.

Eminent domain concerns residents

When the City Council discussed a 12-year extension of eminent domain powers for redevelopment in North Long Beach last month, residents who were afraid they would lose their homes went to the council meeting seeking answers.

Uptown Parking project stalls with P&Z denial

A stroll past Joan Shannon’s wood-paneled house and picket fence is something like walking down a “memory lane” timeline. Over the decades, the quaint Uptown homes in her neighborhood housed farmers, shop keepers, and the occasional movie star.

New regs would force landowners to clean up

Rural property owners who keep junk out in the open could be ordered to clean it up if it's deemed a safety hazard. With a new state law in hand, the Laramie County Commission is readying to vote on adopting nuisance regulations for county residents.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reverses itself on a Port of Arlington barge dock
Native Americans say the location is a tribal fishing site that is protected by an 1855 treaty

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has told the Port of Arlington it must remove a multimillion-dollar barge dock the corps allowed it to begin building on the Columbia River at what Native American tribes say is a treaty fishing site.

Are business signs next to face boulevard ban?

Regional council has proposed banning business signs from the public boulevard on regional roads. This is meant to reduce sign clutter some councillors consider unsightly and distracting.

Energy:

What the presidents said about energy

President Bush and the six presidents before him have all called for reductions in the country's reliance on foreign oil, some promising energy independence that has yet to be achieved.

Biofuel research project advances

Sustainable agriculture practices in the western San Joaquin Valley are advancing through a research partnership featuring a Fresno County grower and scientists from the USDA and California State University, Fresno.

Wind vs water power debate

As the world wrestles with the growing climate change dilemma, Ian Boydon examines whether South Lakeland’s contribution to renewable energy should be based on the power of its wind or its water.

Oil exec predicts gas price will stabilize at $3

Gas prices are likely to stabilize around $3 per gallon, the head of the nation's third largest oil company predicted. Jim Mulva, the chairman and chief executive of ConocoPhillips, on Wednesday said gas prices rose too much too fast over the summer and are now dropping too much. He told The Associated Press a $3 price would balance supply and demand, allow oil companies to fund further research and satisfy drivers weary of high prices.

Getting Your House and Car Ready for Winter

Winter officially starts in just a couple of months, but temperatures are dropping below freezing at night and we've already seen the first snow of the season. So it's about time we get our cars and houses prepared for the coming months before it's too late.

New Ford Hybrid System Expected To Deliver Class-Leading Fuel Economy, Improved Drivability

Ford’s next-generation hybrid propulsion system builds upon the proven success of the Escape and Mariner Hybrids, delivering class-leading fuel economy for the all-new 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids that debut later this year.

Gas Prices Drop Slower Than Oil Prices

Oil prices have plummeted, which has given us relief at the pump, but it does not appear that the gas stations are dropping their prices at the same rate as the oil prices are dropping.

BLM Approves Arizona's First Large-Scale Wind Energy Project

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has signed a right-of-way permit and environmental documents approving Arizona's first wind energy development on public lands. Field manager Scott Cooke signed a finding of no significant impact and decision record for the Dry Lake Wind Project, which will be located in Navajo County. The area includes federal, state and private lands. BLM analyzed the impact to the entire project area and coordinated with numerous federal, state, tribal and local agencies prior to approving a right-of-way for the wind energy development.

Regulators plan Great Lakes offshore wind generation

Imagine sections of the Great Lakes dotted with rows of gleaming, 12-story turbines, blades whirring in the stiff breeze as they generate electricity for homes and businesses onshore.

Report: Energy efficiency key to housing affordability

Making low-income dwellings more energy efficient is a critical factor in housing affordability, according to a new report by the Metropolitan Housing Coalition. The Louisville nonprofit group’s 2008 report notes that the average Louisville gas bill has risen to $134.78 in August 2008 from $38.56 in August 1998.

Oil rises above $64 on world stock market rebound

Oil prices rose above $64 a barrel Tuesday as a rebound in world stock markets reassured investors shaken by fears of a world economic slowdown. Light, sweet crude for December delivery rose $1.03 to $64.25 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange by midafternoon in Europe. The contract fell 93 cents to close at $63.22 overnight, the lowest settlement since May 29, 2007.

25 Money Saving Tips for Small Business

In the current economic climate, everyone is attempting to ‘tighten their belt’ and save money. For small businesses, it isn’t just a matter of lowering expenses, but actual survival. Although especially effective for small business, these money saving tips can be applied to any size business and some may even help you at home as well.

Energy-related costs finally easing up
Oil's decline starting to show in electricity rates, shipping fuel surcharges

Oil price declines showing up at gasoline pumps are also filtering into other energy-related bills, providing some much-needed relief for Hawai'i residents.

Private wind power, solar panel use grows
Coastal residents look to take advantage of alternative energy

Years ago, the only way to light the lamps in your home was by setting a small, oil-soaked wick ablaze. Then, there was the phalanx of plastic-coated power lines that ran currents of electricity into homes and businesses worldwide.

Crude falls to below $62 on demand concerns

Crude-oil futures fell Monday, briefly trading below $62 a barrel amid broad declines in global stock markets and commodities prices, as worries intensified that slower economic growth will reduce energy demand.

National:

GDP falls 0.3% in third quarter on dive in spending

The U.S. economy contracted at a 0.3% annualized rate in the third quarter, as consumer spending declined at the fastest rate in 28 years, the Commerce Department estimated Thursday.

Border fence threatens supporter's S. Texas home

Dorothy Irwin is one of the Border Patrol's staunchest local supporters and was a fan of the proposed border fence — until she found out it would run right through her house.

State test scores special report: Schools must pick up pace of gains

Standardized test results are on the rise in the Rock River Valley, but fewer districts are clearing the bar because achievement benchmarks set by the federal government continue to rise.

What the Rate Cut Means for Investors

After the latest move by the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, investors may find it even harder to earn extra income off their savings.

McCain says states deserve more offshore oil money

Republican John McCain said he would boost the revenue Florida and other coastal states get from offshore drilling production, which he said would leave the decision on drilling to the states but give them an incentive to increase production.

Government Said to Be Discussing Plan to Aid Homeowners

Senior Bush administration officials are discussing a plan that could help up to three million homeowners struggling to pay their mortgages to stay in their homes, three people briefed on the proposal said Wednesday.

Fed May Cut Rate to 1%, Signal Steps to Save Economy

The Federal Reserve may lower its benchmark interest rate to 1 percent today and signal further reductions to levels unseen since Dwight Eisenhower was president.

Why Do GM and Chrysler Need Uncle Sam's Help?

Taxpayers are already being asked to bail out Detroit. Do they also have to play investment banker for a GM-Chrysler merger - as well as help out a private equity giant?

Consumers Less Tolerant of Recalls, Says Study
Packagers face public's growing concern over safety of products

The buying habits of consumers change dramatically and cost companies millions when product safety and quality issues arise, according to a new study released today by Deloitte. More than half of consumers responding (58 percent) who heard about product safety and/or quality problems changed their buying habits, according to the survey.

Fed weighs another rate reduction to limit fallout

Disappearing jobs, burrowing consumers and skittish companies are reasons for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates and brace the tottering economy. Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke and his colleagues open a two-day meeting Tuesday afternoon — their last before the November elections — to make a fresh assessment of economic and financial conditions and decide their next move on rates. Their decision will be announced Wednesday.

Early voting reaching record numbers, election officials say

State election officials said Monday that early voting already has reached record levels as the presidential campaign enters its final week. As of Monday, 30 states either are allowing voters to vote in person early or are accepting absentee ballots, and election officials are reporting record turnouts. Voting problems, ranging from computer glitches to long lines, have been reported in a few states.

Study: Prescription drugs cost more in poor areas

Four of the most widely prescribed drugs in the United States can cost 15 percent more, on average, in the poorest neighborhoods of Florida, according to a study published in the journal of Health Services Research.

U.S. Fed expected to ratchet down rates tomorrow

As the economic wreckage piles dangerously higher, the U.S. Federal Reserve is prepared to ratchet down interest rates — perhaps to their lowest point in more than four years — with the hope of relieving some of the pain felt by many Americans.

Key lawmaker says anxious for another stimulus

U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, the powerful chairman of the House of Representatives Financial Services Committee, said on Monday he would will remain "very nervous" about the health of the nation's economy until Congress passes another stimulus package.

Signs point to record-breaking turnout in November elections

If early voting ballots and new voter registrations are good indicators of what the overall voter turnout will be for the upcoming election, the numbers may very well set an all-time high, officials said.

United Nations:

U.N. Secretary-General appoints new members to Advisory Group of the Central Emergency Response Fund

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced the appointment of 16 members to the Advisory Group of the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), including four alternates. Seven of the 16 members have previously served on the Advisory Group. Their re-nomination helps to ensure the continuation of the institutional memory of the Advisory Group, one-third of which should rotate every year.

Chinese melamine scandal widens

The toxic chemical melamine is probably being routinely added to Chinese animal feed, state media has reported. Correspondents say the unusually frank reports in several news outlets are an admission that contamination could be widespread throughout the food chain.

Congo Gunmen Force Civilians From Camps, Burn Huts, U.N. Says

Gunmen in rebel-held territory in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are forcing civilians displaced by fighting to return to their villages, an official of the United Nations relief agency, UNHCR, said.

Cuba gets U.N. support again against U.S. embargo

For the 17th consecutive year, the United Nations General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly against the United States embargo on Cuba, condemning the blockade and demanding an immediate end to it.

U.N. secretary visits Nepal to support peace process

A spur to the peace process, and a call for political parties to reach a consensus in order to resolve the question of the former Maoist guerrillas, to be integrated into the national armed forces. These are the main objectives of the U.N. secretary general's official visit to Nepal, scheduled for October 31-November 1.

Survey: Economic Impacts of Immigration

International migration is a mighty force globally. According to United Nations statistics, over 175 million people, accounting for 3 percent of the world's population, live permanently outside their countries of birth. The paper surveys the economic impacts of immigration for host countries, mostly emphasizing the recent

U.N. scheme aims to use carbon credits to save forests

The United Nations hopes to include a market-based scheme aimed at using carbon credits to save rainforests as part of a broader pact to fight climate change.

Fears for all-out war in Congo

Congo is on the brink of a humanitarian emergency as rebel forces in the east of the country are threatening to overwhelm U.N. and government peacekeeping troops.

Eggs recalled, exports halted as China's food crisis worsens

Chinese retailers pulled eggs off shelves Wednesday and a supplier was ordered to stop exports, amid fears the toxic threat of the chemical melamine was far more widespread than first reported.

Cabinet agrees changes on security pact
Hundreds of Iraqi Christian families return home

Hundreds of Christian families who fled Iraq's northern city of Mosul in fear for their lives this month have returned home in the past few days, a senior Christian lawmaker said on Tuesday.

Nearly 1 billion people hungry worldwide, U.N. human rights expert says

Propelled by this year’s global food crisis, nearly one billion people worldwide are now hungry, an independent United Nations expert said today, urging the issue to be viewed through the lens of human rights.

Aid workers to evacuate Congo town, rebels advance

U.N. peacekeepers prepared on Tuesday to evacuate around 50 foreign aid workers from a town in eastern Congo, which Tutsi rebels are advancing on, officials said.

U.N. to Vote on U.S. Blockade of Cuba

The 17th consecutive vote of a resolution condemning the U.S. blockade of Cuba for almost 50 years is among U.N. activities this week. The document will put the matter to the 192 U.N. members for consideration on October 29, during a plenary session.

Tainted Eggs From China Discovered in Hong Kong

Hong Kong food inspectors have found eggs imported from northeast China to be contaminated with high levels of melamine, the toxic industrial additive at the heart of an adulteration scandal in Chinese milk products.

Protesters attack U.N. Congo office

Hundreds of protesters are reportedly attacking the U.N.'s headquarters in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. A U.N. spokeswoman said that cars were being damaged and windows shattered in the regional capital, Goma.

Commentary:

Obama's lessons from abroad
By Larry Pratt

Thanks to journalist Jerome Corsi, we now know for a fact that Democrat presidential candidate Barak Obama is joined at the hip with Kenya's Marxist thug Raila Odinga, now the country's Prime Minister.

Big Media Pull Out All Stops to Elect Obama
By Phyllis Schlafly

Big Media have pulled out all their stops in trying to elect Barack Obama by withholding from the American people the truth about his radical record and associates. Big media, their polls, and the presidential debates practically ignored front-burner issues important to millions of Americans.

Global Warming
By Martin Capdevila

Global Warming is not a fact, it is a fad, a religion of sorts, if you will, because our intellectual society has grown tired of religion and is in need of something else to believe in. We chose our planet. It’s really not a bad idea, considering the fact that we live and breathe our own filth, and wanting the air to be cleaner is a legitimate desire. However, when we dismiss those who don’t agree with us because of such sacrilege we are again discriminating and censoring voices that should be heard. Why?

Not Your Grandfather’s Democrats!
By J.B. Williams

There are only three types of Obama/Biden supporters and the evidence is now conclusive that none of them are your grandfather’s Democrats!

Mr. Obama: Personal responsibility, personal accountability
By Frosty Wooldridge

In a recent speech, Barack Obama said, “We need to share the wealth with everyone!” One of the infamous writers of the past, Karl Marx, said, “From each according to his ability, to each according to his need.”

Fleeting Freedom: The Indecent Assault on Broadcasters
By Don Watkins

Federal Communications Commission v. Fox Television Stations

Bill Ayers's Scary Plans for Public Schools
By Phyllis Schlafly

Will William Ayers be Secretary of Education in a Barack Obama Administration? All parents should ponder that possibility before making their choice for President on November 4.

San Francisco: the Epicenter of Stupid Ideas
By Alan Caruba

In the 1980s I found myself traveling all over the United States in the employ of a corporation’s quarterly newsletter. I visited many cities and places, discovering the unfailing courtesy and good will of Americans everywhere I went. One of my favorite places was San Francisco. It is picturesque, sits beside a bay spanned by a marvel of engineering, and has great restaurants, hotels, and other attributes.

Senator Obama, Stand and Deliver!
By Frank Salvato

The recent ruling by the Hon. R. Barclay Surrick dismissing the lawsuit challenging Barack Obama’s citizenship, brought by former Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Democratic county chair Phillip Berg, presents the genesis of a Constitutional Crisis. While Barack Obama’s refusal to satisfy the citizens’ request to validate his citizenship illustrates his unbridled arrogance and that of his campaign and supporters, it also exposes the fact that politics, at the hands of political opportunists and ideologues, has usurped the legitimate execution of the supreme law of the land; the United States Constitution.

Our global Big Brother
By Henry Lamb

October 24 was U.N. day, celebrated by many as the birthday of the United Nations. In its 63 years of operation, it has spent untold billions of dollars in its quest to create global governance. Its goal is almost in its grasp. European leaders are pushing for a summit meeting with President Bush to create a new global "central bank" with the authority to control global monetary policy in much the same way U.S. monetary policy is controlled by the Federal Reserve.

Who’s Behind the Economic Collapse?
By Cliff Kincaid

Joe Biden made headlines by talking about a “generated crisis” for a President Obama. But is the current financial meltdown another “generated crisis?” Considering the problems in the economy, including too much federal debt, too much spending and easy credit, which have been with us for years, why did this crisis suddenly occur only six weeks before the election?

Free enterprise did not cause the market meltdown
By Tom DeWeese

I rarely watch the Sunday morning political shows like Meet the Press and This Week. What's the point? It's just a gabfest of the elite pouring out their version of reality, usually surrounding one lone conservative with a panel of liberals, calling it balanced. I've been in that situation too many times to know real facts rarely get through the posturing.

Our troubled country: Accelerating people exhaustion
By Frosty Wooldridge

Do you like what you see happening to the United States? Do you love that toxic blanket of air pollution covering our cities? Do you love our gridlocked cities? How about the cost of gas? Price of food rising? Are you thrilled with our medical costs? Bursting prisons? Financial meltdown? Do you feel the loss of a sense of America with competing languages and incompatible cultures injected into our society—at Warp Speed?

The man from Mombassa
By Alan Caruba

I have a friend who recently referred to Sen. Barack H. Obama as “the man from Mombassa.” It made me think of a line from the film, “Out of Africa," in which the main character has dammed a tributary to irrigate her coffee farm only to have it break through. Her African man servant explains to her, “This river, memsab, wants to go to Mombassa," perfectly capturing the futility of trying to alter its natural course.

A Man Is Known by the Company He Keeps
By Fred Gielow

A lot of pundits on the left say it's inappropriate to discuss Barack Obama's connection to Bill Ayers. After all, Barack was only eight when Ayers was plotting to blow up the Pentagon and U.S. Capital. That may be true, but doesn't it then mean the Democrat candidate had a lot of years to figure out Ayers was a terrorist, and an unapologetic terrorist at that?

Archived articles for
the week of
October 20 - October 24, 2008

Environmental:

New, Dangerous Greenhouse Gas Tied to Global Warming

A recent study finds that one chemical’s emissions are four times more common in the atmosphere than previously thought, and thousands of times more effective at trapping heat than Carbon Dioxide.

Prius: Not Good Enough

The Toyota Prius is the least-dirty car on the road that is sold by a major manufacturer and affordable to most people in the US (it has an MSRP of around $22,000 new), sporting a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain and an EPA tested 48 miles-per-gallon (MPG) city and 45 MPG highway. While it is certainly a welcome advance in cleaner-car technology, it is not enough to solve the problem of climate change. Indeed, it wouldn't be even if everybody who drives now drove one.

Dupont and Honeywell Develop Refrigerant with Environmental Benefits

Dupont develops and plans to commercialise a new refrigerant for automotive air conditioning that offers lower global warming potential than hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) R-134a, which is usually used.

Scientists Deciding Which Endangered Species to Save

Earth may be in the midst of a sixth mass extinction event due to our impact on the planet, scientists have said, and the upshot could mean nearly 50 percent of all plant and animal species will disappear in the coming decades. Rather than try to save them all, biologists are now trying to figure out which species are most crucial.

Florida's global-warming goals look like expensive hot air

Florida has embarked on a noble mission to cool the globe and cut dependence on fossil fuels. But can we ask people in danger of losing their jobs and homes to pay for saving the world, even if that includes Miami Beach? Because the cost will be arriving in electric bills.

Climate change`s threat to water needs more study, says U.N.

Models to predict the impact of climate change on potable water and the management of wastewater are needed to deal with the expected increase in water-related illnesses as result of global warming, says a new policy brief by the United Nations University (UNU). 'We need greater investment in the development of models to aid decision-making, reduce uncertainty and augment costly monitoring programmes,' said Corinne Wallace, a leading water health researcher at UNU's International Network on Water, Environment and Health, and one of the authors of a new policy brief.

Financial meltdown defrocks deceit of man-made global warming

Frequently after a presentation someone will ask me the rhetorical question, “So, you are telling us the majority of scientists, the IPCC, and National Academies of Science are all wrong.” It is more than the usual consensus argument, which says you must be wrong because the majority disagrees. It implies it is not credible to believe so many people are deceived. The consensus argument is counteracted by the point that consensus is not a scientific fact.

Gray wolves return to the endangered species list

The North American gray wolf was relisted as an endangered species after U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service repealed last March’s delisting rule. Twelve conservation groups sued U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, saying the delisting was premature. They argued that there was too little genetic exchange between the three wolf recovery areas and that state management plans were not adequate to sustain a healthy wolf population.

Uganda: Global Economic Stumble Will Hurt Environment

News headlines of recession and possible collapse of major global economies continue to hit both print and electronic media

California energy policy will create jobs, lead to savings, study says

Three decades of emphasis on energy efficiency in California has created 1.5 million jobs and $45 billion in payroll, and measures to combat global warming will result in similar gains in the decade ahead, a UC-Berkeley researcher says in a report released today.

Crunch may put price tag on environment

The worst financial crisis since the 1930s may be a chance to put price tags on nature in a radical economic rethink to protect everything from coral reefs to rainforests, environmental experts say.

The Anti-Gore

Global warming skeptics have been longing for a figurehead to lead their charge since before Al Gore came out with his inconvenient documentary. Last month, several conservative groups in the United States hosted one of the few promising candidates – Vaclav Klaus, president of the Czech Republic.

Gore’s Dangerous Call for Environmental Civil Disobedience

Last month, in a speech before the Clinton Global Initiative, he called for young people to engage in "civil disobedience to prevent the construction of new coal plants that do not have carbon capture and sequestration." This was not the first time such calls came from the man who used to be the "next president of the United States."

Pipeline’s desire to expand to test state law

The pipelines’ owner, Alpharetta-based Colonial Pipeline, wants to lay down a third line to unclog the choke point between Baton Rouge, La., and Atlanta. To do that, the company needs another 25 feet of right-of-way, adding to the 75 feet it already has.

Group Says Tap Water May Be Safer Than Bottled Water

The Environmental Working Group has put out a new report which states that tap water may be safer than even bottled water.

Property Rights:

Final Fort Trumbull home demolished

The last home still-standing in the Fort Trumbull neighborhood was taken down today. More than one 100 homes once stood on the New London peninsula and now there are none. The battle over Fort Trumbull and the fight against eminent domain began nearly a decade ago when the city started taking homes to bring commercial development to the waterfront property.

Some Homeowners Unhappy With Buyout Offers
10 homeowners in Manchester/ McKnight buyout area will enter mediation with developer

A group of about 10 homeowners in the Manchester/McKnight Northwest Redevelopment area are unhappy with buyout offers from the developer, Hutkin Realty LLC. The homeowners and Hutkin will enter mediation next week to come to an agreement.

Lake Tahoe shorezone plan approved after 20 years in the making

After more than two decades of debate and more than eight hours of discussion by regulators on Wednesday, Lake Tahoe has a new set of rules regulating development of the area near its shoreline. By an 8-5 vote, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency's Governing Board approved Lake Tahoe's first comprehensive shorezone program since 1987.

Property owner installs gate to block access to Lincoln Heights neighborhood

Maria Freyre could not believe her eyes last week when she pulled onto the Lincoln Heights street where she has lived for 45 years. A neighbor had erected a steel gate across Forest Park Drive, blocking 18 residents' access to their homes.

Trails controversy deepens

A public hearing held Monday at the Saguache County Courthouse addressing the issue of trail use near the Baca Grande subdivision raised more questions than it answered, according to many attending the meeting.

Eminent domain would allow the expansion of fairgrounds

The last private property in an area the Iowa State Fair Board has identified for expansion may be purchased through the use of eminent domain. The board unanimously voted last week to proceed with a hearing that would allow the state to buy the property without the owner's consent. The commercial property, 243 E. 30th St., is owned by Clayton Enterprises LLC and houses several businesses.

Eminent domain: Court dismisses Grand Ridge condemnation case

Grand Ridge has lost a court case involving siting a water treatment facility. Chief Circuit Judge James A. Lanuti earlier this month dismissed the village's eminent domain suit against Joyce Jaegle Talty and Charles Talty, who own five acres of farmland bordering the village limits.

Eminent domain approved for Kibbe Road work
Lawyer for property owners says concept is 'shaky'

Improvements to the Highway 20 and Kibbe Road intersection that would create a private haul road for Teichert Aggregates Inc.'s Hallwood plant were approved despite an appellate court ruling that said the project does not comply with the California Environmental Quality Act.

Tough road to the mountains
In Oro Valley, some decry lack of trail access to Tortolita Mountains

Early last Friday morning, a group of Sun City Vistoso residents set out on a hike through Chalk Creek Wash in Oro Valley’s northern reaches. “This time of year we hike almost every day,” Vistoso Hiking Club member Paul Meier said.

Battle continues over beach rights

The 20-year fight goes on to determine whether Massachusetts residents can walk along the sea and sand of beaches as they have for generation upon generation.

ATV law passes in York County

After haggling over wording and hearing concerns from several residents, the York County Council unanimously passed a law late Monday that penalizes those who ride all-terrain vehicles on others’ land.

City to discuss medical-center plans

The city is bearing down on a decision to add a 25-acre medical center to El Paso's long-term strategic growth plan but the inclusion of eminent domain as a possible device for development could create a divide among members of City Council on Tuesday.

Runway blues

Over in Orange County, UNC-Chapel Hill is revving up to build a new airport, but even in the early stages of a long process the university is being buffeted by a strong propwash from the public. That's as it should be.

NPPD land case to court

An eminent domain case between Nebraska Public Power District and Galyn and Joan Johannes is scheduled to be heard at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, in Platte County Court. Platte County Court Judge Frank Skorupa will hear the case.

Eminent domain decision tonight

The City Council will vote tonight on the controversial topic of eminent domain and it promises to be a close vote as councilors decide how best to proceed.

Energy:

Alternative Heating Systems Can Cut Costs
Solar, Hybrid, Geothermal Reduce Use Of Fossil Fuels

Although oil prices have come down in recent days, the cost of heating a home is still higher than it was last year. Some residents are taking a look at alternative heat sources, including some old ideas, to heat their homes.

Nuclear Power May Be in Early Stages of a Revival

After three decades without starting a single new plant, the American nuclear power industry is getting ready to build again. When the industry first said several years ago that it would resume building plants, deep skepticism greeted the claim. Not since 1973 had anybody in the United States ordered a nuclear plant that was actually built, and the obstacles to a new generation of plants seemed daunting.

Crude tumbles to 17-month low despite OPEC cuts

Crude-oil futures tumbled Friday, at one point falling 7.4% to their lowest level in 17 months as a production cut by OPEC failed to ease concerns that the global economic slowdown is dampening demand.

New Energy Economy Is Emerging - Reports

A new energy economy is finally emerging in the United States, due to the rising price of fossil fuels, oil insecurity and concerns about climate change, according to a new report.

Perry: Texas needs to lead the charge on energy independence

Governor Rick Perry told energy experts that as a matter of foreign and economic policy, the nation must reduce its dependence on foreign oil by building a deeper, more diverse energy portfolio.

Electric-Car Company Seeks to Expand to Australia

Even as tumbling gas prices threaten to undermine consumer interest in alternative-fuel cars, Better Place, a California-based electric vehicle company, on Thursday said it aims to raise 1 billion Australian dollars ($668.5 million) to develop an electric-car network in Australia.

Shift to renewable power generation demands new approaches to transmission challenges

Significant progress is being made to prepare America's electrical grid for the integration of renewable and carbon-neutral generation sources. But a successful, large-scale shift to clean energy demands a bold and far-reaching commitment by utilities, regulators, and policymakers to provide infrastructure and new rules that enable power from often-remotely located clean resources to be delivered to consumers efficiently and economically.

Why are fuel bills still going up?

Oil prices are plunging and the wholesale price of gas and electricity in the U.K. is trending downwards – so why are our fuel bills still going up? The answer from the big energy companies – whose unpopularity has now only been eclipsed by the banks – is that it takes time before their lower costs feed into lower bills for consumers.

Canadian energy firm reports a major oil prospect in New Zealand

Canadian oil explorer Trans-Orient Petroleum Ltd. says it has found shale rock with the potential to contain billions of barrels of oil on New Zealand's East Coast.

U.S. gasoline under $3 for first time since Feb - govt

The average U.S. retail gasoline price dropped 23.7 cents over the last week to fall below $3 a gallon for the first time since mid February and is at the lowest level in almost a year, the Energy Department said Monday.

Hawaii outlines renewable energy goals

Hawaii is planning for a future filled with renewable energy, electric cars and stable power supplies as the islands strive to become energy independent.

World's key gas states to set up joint forum

Iran, Qatar and Russia - the three countries with the world's largest gas reserves - agreed on Tuesday to create a new forum for joint projects but stopped short of advocating an OPEC-style cartel.

SolarWorld Starts up Oregon-Based Solar Cell Plant

German-based alternative energy firm SolarWorld announced Friday that it has opened a solar cell-manufacturing facility in Hillsboro, Oregon.

Volatile economics hurt ethanol producers

The economic crisis in the United States has resonated in virtually every market, including the ethanol industry, interrupting several plant operations, forcing some to restructure their balance sheets and causing a few to completely shut down.

Venture capital investment in Austin drops 62%

Investments worth $1.2 billion in 96 deals made energy companies the third most attractive industry sector as clean technologies -- including alternative energy, pollution and recycling, power supplies and conservation -- have continued to grow in popularity.

National:

Deadline Won't Be Met for Mexico Border Fence

The United States will miss its deadline to complete a security fence along the Mexican border this year, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said on Thursday. "I don't think we're going to hit the nail on the head and be done by the end of the year," Chertoff told Reuters, adding that about 370 miles of the planned 670-mile fence had been completed.

U.S. Judge Orders Arizona Sheriff to Improve Jails

Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County, Ariz., who has built a national reputation with his get-tough tactics, and county health officials have violated the Constitution by depriving jail inmates of adequate medical screening and care, feeding them unhealthy food and housing them in unsanitary conditions, a federal judge has ruled.

Hispanic baby boom has Texas ramifications

Call it the Hispanic baby boom. Fertility has surpassed immigration as the primary factor in the United States' Latino population growth, according to a Pew Hispanic Center report released on Thursday.

Report: Kids less likely to graduate than parents

A new study says your child is less likely to graduate from high school than you were. And it finds that most states aren't doing much to hold schools accountable.

CDC: Childhood Food Allergies on the Rise in United States

New research from the Centers for Disease Control finds childhood food allergies up 18 percent in the past decade. "I see many more children with food allergies," said Dr. Paul Ehrlich of Beth Israel Medical Center.

Greenspan: 'Credit tsunami' means more U.S. job losses unavoidable

Former U.S. Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan warned that a "significant rise" in unemployment was unavoidable as the United States works its way through a massive financial crisis that will not ease up for many months. "We are in the midst of a once in a century credit tsunami," Greenspan said in prepared remarks before the Oversight Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Wal-Mart sets new rules for suppliers, starting in China

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. issued a series of environmental and product safety guidelines for its global suppliers Wednesday, starting with those in China, as part of its bid to be more environmentally responsible and to avoid any recalls or defective product returns.

More Illinois schools fail to meet No Child goals

New data released by the Illinois Board of Education Tuesday shows an increase in the number of Illinois schools and districts unable to meet No Child Left Behind targets.

The ACORN mess: Ensure proper registrations, then move on

From an ACORN, a mighty campaign furor can grow. And given the national track record of the Association for Community Organizations for Reform Now and the fuss it inevitably creates in election years, we're wondering why, at the very least, ACORN's efforts aren't more closely scrutinized than appears to be the case. Washington has done that, so why can't other states use us as a national model if the group is to continue voter registration drives?

Justices Take Case on Illegal Workers and Penalties for Identity Theft

Federal prosecutors pursuing illegal immigrants have a favorite tool: a 2004 law that imposes a mandatory two-year prison sentence on some people who commit identity fraud. The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to decide just how blunt that instrument is.

Fed unveils new plan to assist money market funds

The Federal Reserve has created a new facility to ease the stress in the short-term debt market. Under the new program, announced Tuesday, and called the Money Market Investor Funding Facility (MMIFF), the Fed will provide funds to a private-sector controlled effort to purchase assets from U.S. money market mutual funds

Deadline for U.S. Green Card Lottery is looming

Applications need to be in soon for the annual DV-2010 United States Green Card Lottery. Every year, 55,000 permanent resident American visas are granted to citizens of countries that have low U.S. immigration rates.

Good news in troubled times

Over this last week there have been some clear signs of hope, indications that some people are coming to grips with the depth of the changes we have to make to restore healthy ways of living.

Impact of oil price drop hard to predict

Speaking at the annual meeting of the American Petroleum Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona, Chevron CEO Dave O'Reilly said, "Prices always rise and fall. We don't set our plans on any certain price level."

Best Places To Reside In The United States During Economic Hardships

Layed-off or looking for a job due to the recession but don't know where to turn? A recent data crunch reveals the best places in America to live in terms of jobs and some of the best spots may just surprise you.

United Nations:

At U.N., Caribbean Lobbying, Banning of Questions, UNEP and Nairobi Financial Irregularities

Inner City Press

U.N. agency: 200,000 newly displaced in east Congo

Fighting in eastern Congo has driven some 200,000 from their homes during the last eight weeks, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis, the World Food Program said Friday.

Cuba-Russia Working to Expand Relations

Shortly after attending the consecration of the Our Lady of Kazan Russian Orthodox Church of Havana on Sunday, Vice President of the Russian Duma (parliament) Liubov Konstantinovna Sliska spoke briefly with the press to offer details about joint projects between his country and Cuba.

Mexico clamps down on illegal immigrants from Cuba

Mexico agreed to tighten immigration rules on Monday in an effort to cut off the main smuggling route for thousands of Cubans headed to the United States.

The New Constitution of Ecuador: Conclusion

The new Constitution of Ecuador is markedly socialist, environmentalist, nativist and politically correct. In the two previous parts of this series I talked about the fundamental principles and the new rights and institutions in this Constitution. Here I will go into the chapters dealing with economic regulations and international affairs.

Asian, European Leaders to Discuss Financial Crisis, Environment

Asian and European leaders are arriving in Beijing to discuss ways to deal with the global financial crisis. Europe wants support from China and other Asian giants on the crisis, as well as on climate change and sustainable development. Daniel Schearf reports from Beijing.

U.N. prescribes food safety recommendations in China

The United Nations launched here on Wednesday a paper on food safety in China, giving recommendations on where the country could focus its energy in making improvements in the food safety system.

Bolivia's president celebrates constitution win

President Evo Morales said he can "go to the cemetery happy" Tuesday after Congress approved holding a referendum on his new constitution empowering Bolivia's long-oppressed Indian majority.

Top U.N. envoy deplores recent attacks against Afghan civilians

The top United Nations envoy to Afghanistan has condemned recent attacks against civilians in the violence-wracked nation, including a suicide bombing on Monday that killed five children in Kunduz, the murder of a number of passengers on a bus in Kandahar and the killing of a foreign aid worker in the capital, Kabul.

U.N. calling for urgent review of biofuel policies

The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) is calling for an urgent review of worldwide biofuel policies and subsidies. Perceiving biofuels as both risk and opportunity, FAO now thinks an evaluation is necessary in order to preserve the goal of world food security, protect poor farmers, promote broad-based rural development and ensure environmental sustainability.

U.N. launches educational television channel for Iraqi children

Iraqi children who are unable to attend classes due to security concerns will now be able to continue their studies through distance learning thanks to a new educational television channel launched today by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Education Ministry.

NATO's Political Will to Defeat Taliban Is "Wavering"

NATO members are "wavering" in their political commitment to defeat the Taliban and the international effort in Afghanistan is disjointed, the alliance's top military commander said.

U.N. urges Central Asia to strengthen ties with rest of continent for greater security

“We are gathering here against the backdrop of a gloomy economic environment with pressing challenges in food and energy security, as well as the need for greater financial stability,” Under-Secretary-General Heyzer warned participants at the U.N. Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) meeting.

Nepal: U.N. conducts training to help give excluded groups a voice

The training, held together with the National Human Rights Commission, was conducted with organizations representing groups largely excluded from decision-making processes on how the State should address the consequences of the conflict, a process known as transitional justice.

A partial U.N. victory for Serbia

What do Albania, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru and Palau have in common with the United States? They were the only countries that supported the U.S. when the United Nations General Assembly voted this month on a Serbian-drafted resolution to seek an opinion from the International Court of Justice on the legality of Kosovo’s declaration of independence in February.

Commentary:

Global cooling? Yes...
By Anthony L. Hall

If you notice temperatures getting cooler sooner or more and more news reports about a phenomenon called “global cooling,” fear not, because this only indicates that Mother Nature has determined that it’s time for a change.

The terrorist attack of 2010
By Selwyn Duke

The date is November 9, 2010, and you turn on the radio to listen to the news over morning coffee. Economic times have been tough, and you’re not expecting much to uplift the soul. Yet, what you hear still makes your blood run cold.

Environmental Groups Exposed: ‘Every dollar spent has been aimed at helping Democrats’
By Marc Morano

Greenwire

Greenwire

Ruining America
By Alan Caruba

George Washington warned against “factions” by which he meant political parties, but even in the earliest days of the new republic, the most natural of human inclinations was to band together with like-minded people to elect one’s preferred candidate to office.

What world religions and leaders won't talk about
By Frosty Wooldridge

Ever wonder why millions upon millions of people flee to the United States for a better life? Every year? Have you thought about why the line of human misery worldwide grows by 77 million annually? What might cause a person to uproot from his or her home country for a perilous journey toward the United States? Or Europe? Or Australia? Or Canada?

Too Big to Fail?
By Ron Paul

In the midst of highly unpopular bailouts of Wall Street, many justifications have been given about why Washington feels the need to act. Some claim that capitalism and the free market are to blame, but we have not had capitalism. If you compare our financial capital to our aggregate debt, this would be obvious. In the same way, we have not had a truly free market. The monetary manipulations of the Federal Reserve, a complex tax code, the many “oversight” agencies and their mountains of regulations show that we are far removed from a free market economy.

The Attention Span of Fungus
By Alan Caruba

We call it “news” because, presumably, the news media is providing us with some “new” information about events in the world. If editors and reporters could not come up with something new to write about, your daily newspaper or television news program or channel would cease to exist.

The Hidden Costs of Voting Early
By Nancy Salvato

Voting early in the presidential election? Seems like a great idea to many Americans. For folks who have done their homework and believe themselves absolutely certain that their mind is made up about who they want to win an election, there is probably nothing to lose. For the person who reads all the information available regarding each of the candidates, even an October surprise will likely not come as a surprise. Rather, it will probably validate his or her existing beliefs about who should be our next president.

The open borders network: Illegal access to America
By Frosty Wooldridge

Ever wonder how millions of illegal aliens maintain their ability to remain inside the United States without fear of lawful deportation? How do they remain lawless while they enjoy impunity from our laws? How can so many organizations, that support illegals, thrive above the laws of our country?

Confirmation of Foolishness from the Mouths of Babes?
By Selwyn Duke

The most interesting presidential poll of all doesn't go by the name of Rasmussen, Zogby, or Gallup but, believe it or not, Nickelodeon. Every year the children's TV station has its young viewers weigh in on who they would choose for president, and they have picked the winner four of the last five presidential elections.

Al-Jazeera for Obama
By Cliff Kincaid

Colin Powell’s predicted and expected endorsement of Barack Obama was transformed into big news by the pro-Obama media. But Arab propaganda channel Al-Jazeera’s intervention in the U.S. presidential contest is also extremely significant. Al-Jazeera, a mouthpiece for enemies of the United States, aired a Moammar Gadhafi speech praising Obama and followed with a story depicting supporters of Sarah Palin as white racist Christians. The channel is subsidized by the oil-rich Sunni Muslim plutocracy/dictatorship in Qatar.

McCain's Prospects Depend on Telling Truth About Obama
By Phyllis Schlafly

The media are piling on against John McCain and some pundits are predicting it's all over, that Barack Obama has somehow won the election. As the old saying goes, it's not over until the fat lady sings, and it's high time for the fat lady to sing about Obama's scary agenda and the many reasons why it is too risky to elect him President.

Let’s Go Nuclear
By Alan Caruba

How do you know when a Green—hardcore environmentalist—is lying to you? When his lips are moving. Okay, it’s a cliché used in other cases as well, but it is especially true when the latest absurd claim comes flying at you courtesy of the mainstream media.

Is Obama a socialist?
By Henry Lamb

Socialism, according to Karl Marx, is the transition between capitalism and communism. To achieve communism, Marx says, there must be continuing revolution in which the fundamental principal is: The end justifies the means.

Bedtime Story
By Fred Gielow

Once upon a time there was a clutch of activists anxious to do good deeds. It wasn't fair, they asserted, for a segment of the population to go without individual home ownership, so they set about to rectify this grave social injustice.

Archived articles for
the week of
October 13 - October 17, 2008

Environmental:

Are Wolves Endangered?

The legal battles over the status of the grey wolf as an endangered species are continuing in the U.S. while at the same time a discussion is ongoing regarding the wolf species we are talking about.

E.U. Kyoto signatories on way to goals: environment agency

The 15 European Union countries that signed up to the 1997 Kyoto agreement on cutting greenhouse gases are collectively on track to meet their commitment, though individual performances vary, the European Environmental Agency said Thursday.

E.P.A. Toughens Standard on Lead Emissions; Change Is the First in 3 Decades

The Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday set stringent new standards for airborne lead particles, following the recommendations of its science advisers and cutting the maximum allowable concentrations to a tenth of the previous standard. It was the first change in federal lead standards in three decades.

E.U. climate pact under pressure after veto threats

European Union leaders maintained Thursday the targets and timetable for their hard-fought climate change plans, amid growing pressure to tailor the package as the financial crisis bites.

Farms to suffer under bill

There's something reassuring about the farms we've worked so hard to preserve here in the nation's most densely populated state. Not only are the Garden State's farms beautiful to look at, but they produce fresh food and help fight global warming.As food prices rise and concerns about climate change deepen, preserved farmland becomes increasingly precious. Agricultural soils "sequester" carbon as they produce crops that feed the state. In turn, locally grown foods cost less - and leave a smaller carbon footprint - than produce shipped from distant places.

Oakland ranks ninth in state's cougar sightings

The great cougar debate is once again sweeping across Michigan as new sightings and attacks stoke the glowing embers of an age-old mystery surrounding the elusive cats, or, as cougar groups like to call them, the UFOs (unidentified furry objects).

The search for the Ivory-billed woodpecker goes on

The search teams covered lots of ground and tried new survey techniques. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service led the 2007-08 search effort with its partners from The Nature Conservancy, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Searchers documented more possible sightings and possible ivory-bill double knocks heard, but the definitive photograph, like the bird itself, remained elusive.

Final Environmental Assessment for Interagency Florida Panther Response Plan available

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced the availability of a final Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Interagency Florida Panther Response Plan.

Cold feet on climate change?

In March 2007, European leaders embarked on the most far-reaching and ambitious EU policy undertaken since the launch of the euro. They not only agreed on a 20% target for overall emissions reduction by 2020, but – crucially – binding targets for 20% of all energy to be sourced from renewables, and for 10% of transport fuels to come from biofuels.

Take the greenhouse gasbags with a grain of salt

Have you noticed how environmental campaigners almost inevitably say that not only is global warming happening and bad, but also that what we are seeing is even worse than expected?

Law Finally Cages Animal-Rights Guerillas

The scene is reminiscent of a B-list action flick: anonymous masked intruders sneak into some important building, scrawl crude handwritten threats demanding unrealistic accommodations and leave an incendiary device meant to detonate the next morning as employees walk in for their daily shifts, before fleeing into the night.

Let wolf leave endangered list

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service should appeal last month's court decision placing the gray wolf back on the endangered species list in Wisconsin. The decision, which also affected Minnesota and Michigan, flies in the face of data showing the Wisconsin wolf population is greater than wildlife experts would prefer.

Property Rights:

ND zoning law changes sought

Scott Johannsen wants more of a say in decisions that affect him in Minot. Because he lives in an area under Minot’s two-mile extra-territorial jurisdiction, Johannsen has no alderman to represent him

Landowner, Broome vie for mineral rights
Foreclosed property may bring $60K payday

The story begins with Sarah Vroman, owner of about 25 acres in the Town of Sanford, fallen on hard times and unable to pay her taxes. After two years, her bill had reached $6,460. So, earlier this year, Broome County began foreclosure. Soon after, as the saying goes, the plot thickened.

Man faces surprise annexation

Saying he had no warning or letter of notification, Ted Arsenault claims he became a resident of Cedar City against his will. "A county employee showed up at my door at 10 minutes to 5 p.m. on October 7th to inform me he was picking up my county-owned trash can. I asked why. He showed me a pick-up slip with my name written on it that also stated I had been annexed from the county into Cedar City," Arsenault said. "I went to city hall. I was told by the city attorney that I was annexed because the land around me was annexed and that I had been annexed since August 13."

Oops! Warning siren pole drilled into private property – without permission

An indignant landowner and a furious Del Rio city councilwoman linked arms Tuesday night (Oct. 14), dressing down city staff responsible for improper placement of a 40-foot utility pole on the property of Donald R. Bynum and family.

City to study annexing land in valley

The city will study the economic impact of annexing privately owned land in the Eldorado Valley. Four of eight potentially affected property owners polled in August expressed interest in joining the city's borders if they are provided water and other utilities, City Manager Vicki Mayes said.

Hunters should seek access permission now

Big game hunting and trapping season is soon upon us and it is time for scouting habitat and securing permission for land access from private landowners. Too many sportsmen believe that the absence of posted signs means that there is an open invitation to hunt on private property. That practice has led to more newly posted land in southern Maine.

City offers $850,000 in response for land

The Rogers City Council unanimously approved making an $850,000 counteroffer to settle an ongoing eminent domain case that involves 5.12 acres near the intersection of New Hope Road and Interstate 540.

At the edge of a public fight for private property

The St. Paul Port Authority, tasked with bringing business into St. Paul, is kicking out a profitable, tax-paying, unsubsidized, woman-owned, 48-year-old family business. It is a company that pays its 43 employees — nearly half of whom are union members — an average wage of $24 per hour with full medical benefits. And it leases out the construction equipment that has helped build the Xcel Energy Center, restored the Cathedral of St. Paul, and is adding to Regions Hospital.

Vote 'yes' on Issue 3 to reaffirm property owners' water rights

As part of a deal to secure votes for passage of a multistate compact to prevent other parts of the country from siphoning away Great Lakes water, the Ohio legislature agreed to place on the ballot an issue to reaffirm the rights of land owners to water on their property.

Close eminent-domain loophole

In November 2006, more than 67 percent of North Dakota voters cast their ballots voted in favor of a constitutional measure that restricted the use of eminent domain to public purposes only.

Glynn eminent domain has hearing
Brunswick property owner appeals taking of his property to build jail

Four lawyers wrangled over the meaning of Georgia's property laws Monday during an appeal that will decide whether Glynn County can use eminent domain to take land to expand its downtown jail.

Landowners ask cities for help with trespassers

Keep off the grass. Private Property. Beware of Dog. Property owners use all kinds of signs to let potential trespassers know that the land they are on belongs to someone else, but signs like those aren't making much of a difference in part of Eagle Mountain.

Energy:

Colder Winter, Worsening Economic Conditions Point to Higher Natural Gas Costs

According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) most recent projection of heating degree-days, the lower 48 states are forecast to be 2.4% colder this winter compared to last winter, so households heating primarily with natural gas are expected to spend an average of $155 (18%) more this winter, according to the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA).

New law calls for saving electricity

A bill signed by Governor Ed Rendell this week requires the commonwealth’s 11 electric utility companies to reduce power usage 1 percent a year by May 31, 2011. Within two years of that date, the reduction must be 3 percent, with 4.5 percent mandated for the 100 highest-usage hours of the year.

Oil falls below $79 on profit-taking, demand drop

Oil prices fell below $79 a barrel in choppy trading Tuesday as investors took profits from the previous day's rally and shifted their focus back to signs of dwindling world energy demand.

Retooled Approach May Make Bio-based Butanol More Competitive With Ethanol

A modified method of producing biobutanol could make the fuel more competitive with ethanol as a clean-burning alternative to gasoline. According to Agricultural Research Service (ARS) chemical engineer Nasib Qureshi, biobutanol offers several advantages. It can be transported in existing pipelines, it's less corrosive, it can be mixed with gasoline or used alone in internal combustion engines, and it packs more energy per gallon than ethanol.

New energy economy is emerging in the United States

As fossil fuel prices rise (irrespective of short-term fluctuations), as oil insecurity deepens, and as concerns about climate change cast a shadow over the future of coal, a new energy economy is emerging in the United States. The old energy economy, fueled by oil, coal, and natural gas, is being replaced by one powered by wind, solar, and geothermal energy.

Oil falls to 14-month low on bad U.S. economic data

Oil prices fell to a 14-month low Thursday as bad U.S. economic news stoked fears that a significant global economic slowdown will undermine demand for crude.

Options for replacing coal are few, costly
But new power-generating technologies making a dent

Efforts to curb greenhouse gases that cause global warming have sparked interest in new technologies, rejuvenated pleas for energy conservation, and resulted in development of co-generation projects in which steam from one industrial facility is captured and used to generate electricity at another.

Battle Heats Up Over Future Wind Farms In East County

Residents in the East County are sounding an environmental alert about future wind farms in their community. The battle is heating up over plans to build hundreds of wind turbines near Boulevard.

Natural gas pipelines face heavy opposition

A group of Yamhill County residents is fighting proposals that would send a natural gas pipeline through the county. Proponents say pipelines and corresponding terminals are needed to ensure that Oregon has an adequate supply of natural gas. In mid-September, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission conditionally approved 1 of the terminals and a 36.3-mile sendout pipeline.

Oil turns lower on weak demand outlook

Oil fell on Tuesday, reversing earlier gains as expectations of global recession and falling oil demand undermined earlier optimism following a bank bailout. U.S. crude fell 50 cents to $80.69 a barrel by 10:52 a.m. EDT, as concerns over the impact of the financial crisis on oil demand increased.

Energy-efficient home projects dot New Orleans

On a sliver of a demolished chunk of the Lower Ninth Ward is a cluster of modern homes being readied for the return of families. Here is cutting-edge design in an unlikely landscape.

Utah gov wants feds to move quickly on oil shale

The governor of one of three states that could benefit greatly from oil shale says the Interior Department should move quickly and write regulations for its development before a new administration takes over.

National:

Best Places To Reside In The United States During Economic Hardships

Layed-off or looking for a job due to the recession but don't know where to turn? A recent data crunch reveals the best places in America to live in terms of jobs and some of the best spots may just surprise you.

All Political Parties Aside ... Just Vote

Michael Lettera recently launched his very own "rock the vote" campaign. Three years ago, Lettera established Just Vote, a grassroots, non-partisan, get out the vote campaign and, earlier this year, he received logo/trademark status. According to the Westbury resident - the timing and need for Just Vote couldn't have come at a better time with the 2008 presidential election just weeks away.

Excerpts from draft U.S.-Iraqi security agreement

Excerpts from the draft U.S.-Iraqi security agreement meant to replace the U.N. mandate for American-led forces in Iraq, which expires on Dec. 31. The Associated Press obtained a copy and translated the material from Arabic.

The Rise of ‘Convenience Voting’

Election Day (November 4) is still a few weeks away, but millions of Americans have already voted as absentee or “early” voters. In certain states—including Virginia, Idaho, Iowa, and Georgia—early voting began in mid-September.

Inflation in U.S. Wanes; Consumer Prices Unchanged

The cost of living in the U.S. was unchanged in September, restrained by declines in fuel costs, automobile prices and airline fares that show the slowing economy is starting to cool inflation.

Social Security benefits taking big jump

Social Security benefits for 50 million people are expected to go up next year by the largest amount in more than a quarter-century.

Census shows more intergenerational homes

New numbers from the United States Census Bureau paint a picture of the American family in flux. We are seeing a dramatic increase in the number of households where parents are living with their adult children.

Bush emphasizes bank stakes would be temporary

U.S. President George W. Bush on Wednesday emphasized that the government's steps to take stakes in financial institutions were temporary and limited, and that eventually the U.S. economy would turn around.

Court orders Ohio to verify newly registered voters

A federal appeals court on Tuesday ordered Ohio's secretary of state to establish a system to verify hundreds of thousands of newly registered voters by Friday.

FCC Green-Lights Wireless Free Internet

The FCC moved a step closer toward free Internet access across the U.S. FCC Chairman Kevin Martin says a chunk of wireless spectrum should be reserved for free broadband for lower-income people. The FCC's lab tests have concluded that launching an advanced wireless service (AWS) wouldn't risk harmful interference for T-Mobile and others.

Investigation into Possible Voter Fraud

Local law enforcement is now launching an independent investigation into possible voter registration fraud in Cuyahoga County. The investigation was announced at a regularly scheduled Board of Elections meeting this morning where the practices of an community organizing group called ACORN were called into question.

U.S. to pump $250 billion into banks, markets rally

The United States ushered in a new era in banking on Tuesday with plans to take ownership stakes in major financial institutions totaling as much as $250 billion, an incursion into the private sector that was called a regrettable last resort.

United Nations:

Kosovo wants equal status at world court

Kosovo will ask for equal status with Serbia before the International Court of Justice as judges mull whether Pristina’s declaration of independence was in line with international law. “The requirement of the foreign ministry asks Kosovo to be accepted as an equal partner in the Court,” Kosovo’s deputy prime minister Hajredin Kuci declared after a government session.

Bioenergy could reverse poverty in West Africa, U.N. study

A new U.N.-backed report released yesterday says sustainable bioenergy is a weapon that can be used by West African nations to combat poverty. New study - a joint effort by U.N. Foundation (UNF), International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development and Energy and Security Group - examines bioenergy’s potential in eight nations of Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa (UEMOA), comprising Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo.

Second Canadian gas pipeline bombed

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are investigating the second bombing in a week that targeted a natural gas pipeline in northeastern British Columbia.

Former U.N. chief Annan warns hunger crisis as grave as credit crunch

Former United Nations secretary general Kofi Annan warned on Thursday, World Food Day, that the global hunger crisis is as serious as the current financial crisis and must be tackled with the same urgency.

RP calls for progress in U.N. disarmament committee

The Philippines reiterated Thursday its call for progress in international disarmament efforts, especially in curbing the illicit flow of small arms and light weapons (SALWs). A statement on the Philippine mission to the United Nations website said the call came as the U.N. again tackles the issue during the 63rd Session of the General Assembly.

The New Constitution of Ecuador

The recently approved Constitution of Ecuador marks a departure from the tone and scope of the previous one. With "Let us leave the past behind" as its subtitle, it stresses the ancestral component of the Ecuadorian national identity, incorporating the collectivists values of sumak kawsay (Quechua for "the good life") and bringing the South American nation in line with its leftward-oriented neighbors.

Falklands: U.K. tells U.N. no sovereignty negotiations

The United Kingdom reiterated it has no doubts about sovereignty over the Falkland Islands and said that there could be no negotiation on the issue until and at such time as the people of the Islands so wished.

Mexico peso stocks tumble on U.S. recession worries

Mexico's peso weakened sharply on Wednesday and stocks tumbled after weak U.S. retail sales data reinforced concerns of a recession in the United States, Mexico's top trading partner.

U.N. inspectors back inside North Korea: U.S.

Inspectors from the U.N. nuclear watchdog are back in North Korea, resealing nuclear facilities after Washington took Pyongyang off its terrorism blacklist, the U.S. State Department said Tuesday.

Global Financial Crisis Puts Success of MDGs At Risk, U.N. Head Says

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday said he is concerned about the effects that the current global financial crisis will have on impoverished nations and efforts to meet the United Nations Millennium Development Goals - which include targets to curb the spread of diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria - AFP/The International News reports.

NATO troops to retreat if Afghan civilians at risk

NATO has ordered its troops in Afghanistan to pull back from firefights with the Taliban rather than call in air strikes that might kill civilians, Afghan and NATO officials said on Tuesday.

WHO tells governments to focus on basic health care

Nearly 60 million women will give birth without any medical assistance this year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Tuesday in a report calling for an overhaul of how health care is financed and managed globally.

Commentary:

It’s Americanism vs. Socialism on November 4th
By Frank Salvato

At a recent campaign rally, along what is called “the rope line,” Senator Barack Obama was asked a question by a young prospective business owner about taxes and how Obama’s economic plan would affect him, his family and his business. Obama’s response – his unscripted, from the heart, authentic, no-spin, off-the-teleprompter response – was something that would have made Karl Marx proud. Make no mistake, “my friends,” this election is about Americanism vs. Socialism, and little else.

The Real Real Clear Politics Poll Average
By Selwyn Duke

CBS News/NY Times

McCain's Prospects Depend on Telling Truth About Obama
By Phyllis Schlafly

The media are piling on against John McCain and some pundits are predicting it's all over, that Barack Obama has somehow won the election. As the old saying goes, it's not over until the fat lady sings, and it's high time for the fat lady to sing about Obama's scary agenda and the many reasons why it is too risky to elect him President.

The IRS will be hiring
By Alan Caruba

If Barack Obama is elected, the Internal Revenue Service had better double its workforce because the amount of cheating on tax returns will rival Italy’s. The scariest thing about the final debate between the candidates is that both appear to be utterly oblivious to the way the Stock Market dropped 700 points on Wednesday after a brief rally the day before.

What if America opened its borders to unlimited immigration?
By Frosty Wooldridge

What if the U.S. opened its borders to unlimited immigration? What would it mean to inject 10 to 20 or 30 million people into America annually in order to save those millions from starvation and misery around the planet? Since they flood our country for a better life, what would it mean in the long run? How would our cities, states, environment, language, and culture survive?

Warning: Animal Extremists are Dangerous to Your Health
By P. Michael Conn and James V. Parker

For years we have laughed at the antics of people in some of the more extreme segments of the animal rights movement—groups like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). They put up billboards encouraging children to drink beer instead of milk and vilify fast food chains for cooking veggie burgers on the same grill as meat. They even wrote to Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh urging him to stop the killing at his dinner plate and to request a vegetarian dinner for his last meal. All this sure gets the media’s attention and sometimes even a chuckle from the public. Well, maybe its time to stop laughing.

Capitalism Without Capital?
By Ron Paul

It has been long understood that our federal government is going deeper into debt, consistently raising the debt ceiling and demonstrating no fiscal restraint. In recent years, debt ceiling increases have been placed in “must pass” legislation as a means to guarantee that Republicans as well as Democrats would vote for them when Congress was under Republican control.

There's a new world order
By Jim Bracher

America is in serious trouble. Brazil, China, and India - along with other nations - are poised to assume significant leadership positions that have been provided by the United States. Several emerging populations are well educated and appear willing to work and work very hard. While the United States has evolved, for the better, in terms of creating and supporting opportunities for its underclass, one cannot be confident that other global powerhouses will operate in the same way.

Money, Influence & Motive
By Nancy Salvato

I found it absolutely remarkable that George Soros was lampooned in the Saturday Night Live skit, Washington Approves the Bailout. This is because I had previously wondered aloud to my husband my suspicion that there might be more at work than what was being reported around the tanking of the stock market. While I concurred that Fannie May and Freddie Mac contributed to the crisis we currently find ourselves in, I couldn’t help but wonder if the stock market was being manipulated in some other way. Although I initially dismissed my thought as likely “black helicopter” the fact that the writers on SNL included Soros in their parody piqued my interest again. So at the risk of being labeled a conspiracy theorist, I’m going to jump on Former Governor Mike Huckabee’s bandwagon and raise the question.

The 'change' Obama brings
By Henry Lamb

The centerpiece of Barack Obama's campaign is "change." His primary qualification for the office he seeks is his experience as a "community organizer," a state senator for eight years, and a U.S. senator since 2004. To see just what changes Obama wants to bring to the country it is reasonable to look at the values he has demonstrated and the causes he has pursued during his professional career.

States & Utilities Unite to Rob Energy Consumers
By Alan Caruba

Energy consumers in ten northeastern States are going to see their bills rise and probably not even know why. They will assume that it is tied to the cost of oil, natural gas, or coal, but it does so only obliquely.

Anticipating a Democrat-Dominated Government
By Fred Gielow

There's a good chance Democrats will sweep both the House and Senate in the fall election, and indeed the White House, too. If so, what happens? What can we expect from an all-Democrat government with filibuster-stopping majorities in congress? Let me list a few expectations.

Archived articles for
the week of
October 6 - October 10, 2008

Environmental:

Climate distorting U.S. energy policies

Proponents of anthropogenic global warming (AGW) have largely ignored natural climate influences; yet, the evidence is overwhelming that natural factors control the climate and that the greenhouse effect from rising carbon dioxide, while certainly present, is insignificant and as yet undetectable.

Species listed in Western group's petitions

WildEarth Guardians has filed several petitions with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service seeking protections for 13 animals and plants under the Endangered Species Act. Here is a look at the species listed in the petitions:

E.U. Gets Tough On Emissions

Member States should face strict fines and sanctions if they fail to meet national reduction targets for greenhouse gas emissions from sources that are not covered by the E.U. Emissions Trading System - e.g. road and sea transport, buildings, services, and farming - says the EP Environment Committee. In a vote on a proposed effort-sharing decision on Tuesday, MEPs backed national targets proposed by the Commission for 2013-2020, and called for these emissions to be halved by 2035.

U.S. agriculture squeezed by climate

U.S. agriculture faces the daunting task of growing enough crops to meet the demands of both a hungry world and the booming new biofuels industry while reducing its impact on climate change. This formidable challenge hung over discussions recently at a U.S. soybean industry conference that chewed over topics from biodiesel fuels to agriculture's own greenhouse gases.

Ireland set to miss key targets on environment

Ireland will miss key targets for tackling waste, carbon dioxide emissions and water quality unless radical action is taken now, the director general of the Environmental Protection Agency Dr Mary Kelly warned yesterday.

Decoding of malaria parasite's genome could lead to vaccine

Scientists have unraveled the genetic code of a malaria parasite that sickens hundreds of millions of people each year, a step that may lead to better treatment and a vaccine.

Why green tech is more influential than ever

The latest Agenda Setters list includes more people working on a greener tech future than ever before: it's a significant sign the industry is finally taking the subject of the environment seriously. With the top 50 including green technology players, environmental activists and major eco-figures from the biggest vendors, it seems there's a real sea-change under way.

Climate change 'helps spread diseases'

Diseases such as Ebola, bird flu and plague could spread into new regions as a result of climate change, according to a report by the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Feds to use computer chips to foil cactus thieves

Anyone thinking of swiping a stately saguaro cactus from the desert could soon be hauling off more than just a giant plant. National Park Service officials plan to imbed microchips in Arizona's signature plant to protect them from thieves who rip them from the desert to sell them to landscapers, nurseries and homeowners.

Financial gloom clouds environment trust fund

The world financial crisis could cast a pall on the Global Environment Fund, which uses billions of dollars in government money to tackle ecological problems, the fund's climate change chief said on Monday.

EPA decides against regulating perchlorate in water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has controversially decided not to set safety standards for perchlorate in public drinking water. The announcement on 3 October - a preliminary decision that will not be finalised until a month allowed for public comment - received a mixed response from toxicologists.

Deadlines set for designating polar bear habitat

The federal government will designate "critical habitat" for polar bears off Alaska's coast, a decision that could add restrictions to future offshore petroleum exploration or drilling.

Global environmental summit begins Monday, October 6, 2008 in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia

Government ministers, along with leading policy makers, CEOs and environment experts, will participate in the annual Reuters Global Environment Summit, held in Reuters bureaus throughout the Americas, Asia, Europe and Australia from October 6-8. During closed on-the-record sessions, Reuters journalists will listen and report as the summit speakers discuss environmental challenges and brainstorm possible solutions to issues including climate change, pollution and the fear of endangering animal and plant species. Exclusive stories from the summit will be posted online at www.reuters.com/summits.

Critics Fell Plans for Woodland Eco-Village Green Homes Withdrawn After Fierce Opposition Green Homes Withdrawn After Fierce Opposition

The Forestry Commission has withdrawn a plan to build a green community in an ancient woodland in the wake of fierce opposition from environmental groups and local residents. The commission's controversial application for 32 "sustainable" homes in Kilnhill Wood near Nairn was facing rejection by Highland Council's local planning committee on Tuesday, in line with a recommendation from officials.

Mammals facing extinction threat

At least 25% of the world's mammal species are at risk of extinction, according to the first assessment of their status for a decade. The Red List of Threatened Species says populations of more than half of mammalian species are falling, with Asian primates particularly at risk.

Property Rights:

Forcing sales: County Judge wants to use eminent domain for parking space

Washington County Judge Jerry Hunton told Quorum Court members Thursday night that he is thinking about exercising eminent domain on property near the courthouse in order meet the parking needs of county government.

What others think: Proposed S.D. law would hurt hunters

A legislative committee has given preliminary approval to a proposal that could create quite a ripple effect in South Dakota’s outdoors. The panel — a study group made up of state lawmakers — feels landowners are entitled to a $500 penalty from those who are caught trespassing on their land. The measure will be brought up for debate before the full Legislature when it reconvenes early next year.

Beaver dam controversy in Killingly

A beaver dam is creating quite the ruckus in the quiet corner of town. It's pitted neighbor against neighbor, and now the town is wondering if it should get involved.

Proposed ordinance would fine old town Bluffton property owners who don't fix things up

In old town Bluffton, there are both beautiful old homes and dilapidated sheds. Eighty-seven of those structures have been identified as historic by the town, and it wants to preserve them. Tonight, Bluffton Town Council will discuss a measure that would force owners to fix historic properties that show signs of neglect. Structures must be more that 50 years old to make it on Bluffton's historic list.

No imminent plans to raze Meadowdale mall

A week after blogging his idea to revitalize Carpentersville's Illinois 25 corridor by tearing down and rebuilding Meadowdale Mall, Village President Bill Sarto stressed it was nothing more than that - an idea.

Residents tired of flooding
Those outside of flood zones having problems

Flashflooding during heavy rains are increasingly affecting residents living outside flood plain and flood zone areas, DeSoto County officials said Wednesday.

After 17 years of fighting, Atna finally throws in the towel on Seven-Up Pete gold venture

After 17 years of litigation, ballot initiatives, documentaries, and every other tool proponents and opponents could think of throwing into the mix, the long battle of Seven-Up Pete could finally be over.

Large landholder moves to protect development rights

It's the 57,000-acre question: What does the future hold for a 90-square-mile chunk of timberland owned by the Miami Corp. along the Volusia/Brevard county line?

Big rent increase sought for mobile home park

The owner of a 346-space mobile-home park asked the city this week for permission to levy a $252 rent increase.

Town residents urge fight over airport

A group of residents plans to present a petition to the Orange County commissioners today asking the county to fight any taking of rural land for a future airport.

Amendment #1 - Relating to Property Rights/Ineligible Aliens

Florida: Official Ballot Summary: Proposing an amendment to the State Constitution to delete provisions authorizing the Legislature to regulate or prohibit the ownership, inheritance, disposition, and possession of real property by aliens ineligible for citizenship.

Rural-urban water conflicts topic of summit

The summit will cover “the impacts growing out of increasing urbanization of lands surrounding irrigation water delivery systems, including private property encroachment and urban waste water runoff,” the association said in a release. “The hot-button topic has generated strong interest from water users, municipalities, private developers, planning officials, local governments and federal agencies from around the state.”

Last chance for public input on eminent domain

Tonight's City Council meeting will be the last chance for the public to try to convince the city not to move forward with eminent domain proceedings to expand Portsmouth Middle School onto Alumni Field.

State ombudsman helps resolve eminent domain disputes

As attorneys in a New Haven eminent domain case, Michael Milazzo and Benson Snaider hit an impasse. Snaider said he believed the city was shortchanging his client, Image Nightclub, after seizing the property for an arts high school.

Walker's Creek erosion tamed
Park project keeps water from eating away at private property

Energy:

Oil below $80 for first time in a year

Oil fell more than $7 on Friday, dropping below $80 a barrel for the first time in a year, pressured by expectations fuel demand growth will shrivel if the credit crisis pushes the world economy into recession.

The U.S. Faces Serious Risks Of Brownouts Or Blackouts In 2009, Study Warns

A new study released this week highlights what experts have been saying for years: the U.S. faces significant risk of power brownouts and blackouts as early as next summer that may cost tens of billions of dollars and threaten lives.

Private-public partners announce solar project

A group of public agencies and companies has announced plans to build a research center in Aurora to promote commercial solar energy technologies.

Bug-Powered Fuel Cells Could Run on Waste

The race is on to make commercial amounts of ethanol or other biofuels out of plant waste containing cellulose - a fibrous component of plants that gives them structure. But some researchers are looking at a different option - using cellulose to power microbial fuel cells, in which bacteria digest plant waste matter to create electricity directly.

Coal-plant initiative back on ballot
High court says Sevier voters get to decide

The Utah Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that voters in Sevier County will get a chance to vote Nov. 4 on a measure that, if passed, would allow the county's residents to decide whether coal-fired power plants should be built in their back yard.

Oil flat as traders eye possible OPEC meeting

Oil futures traded near $89 a barrel Thursday, as traders weighed speculation about an emergency OPEC meeting against concerns about a slowdown in global oil demand.

Home-Heating Costs Expected to Rise 13% for Residents in West This Winter

Residents of the West should expect to spend about 13 percent more on natural gas to heat their homes this winter, and gasoline prices will be slightly more next year, federal officials predicted Tuesday.

Automakers will focus on green electric vehicles

Reuters is reporting automakers will find it is too expensive to keep investing in a wide range of clean car technologies and are expected to focus their efforts on bringing electric cars to the mass market, the head of Johnson Controls Inc's hybrid car battery business.

Wind farm developers accused of community ‘bribes’

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is calling on the UK Government to stop wind farm developers offering ‘goodwill payments’ to local communities when applying for planning permission.

Iowa motorists make room for turbine blades

The explosive growth of the nation's wind energy industry is prompting double takes and gawking by motorists on Iowa's interstate highways.

Home heating oil prices cooling off

Homeowners wringing their hands over high home heating oil prices received a sedative of sorts yesterday after crude oil prices slid below $90 a barrel. Oil had risen as high as $147 a barrel in July.

Can Coal Be Clean?
A Debate Between Michael Brune of Rainforest Action Network and Joe Lucas of American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity

While John McCain and Barack Obama have painted clean coal as a panacea that will help solve the nation’s energy problem, many environmental and scientific groups have questioned whether the burning of coal can ever be clean. We host a debate between Rainforest Action Network director Michael Brune, author of the new book Coming Clean: Breaking America’s Addiction to Oil and Coal, and Joe Lucas of the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity.

The ultra-thin solar cells that could generate power through windows

Solar cells that are transparent enough to be used to tint windows on buildings or cars, have been developed by U.S researchers. Conventional solar cells are bulky and rigid but lightweight cells are usually far less efficient. However, a new method of making the silicon-based devices could create thin, flexible cells without any trade-offs.

Nuclear renewal spurs demand for engineers
As nuclear power returns to the energy agenda, universities scramble to train workers

Jackie Young was always good at math and science, but when she started college she never figured she'd end up pursuing a career in nuclear energy. Then professors at the University of Tennessee's nuclear engineering department briefed her and other undeclared freshmen about what they call a "nuclear renaissance" as the nation prepares to build dozens of new plants in coming years to meet burgeoning energy needs and wean the country off oil.

German test plant may lead to clean coal power

In this old industrial town in the heart of the former East Germany, researchers have launched what could be a revolution for a much-maligned fuel: the world's first nearly emission-free coal-fired power plant.

National:

Is it end of capitalism in the U.S.?

The Bush administration is considering a partial nationalization of some banks, buying up a portion of their shares to shore them up and restore confidence as part of the 700 billion dollar government bailout.

States probe possible voter registration fraud
Separately, paper finds rolls purged

Questions about possible cases of fraudulent voter registrations were being raised this week as officials in several states investigated hundreds of questionable or duplicate registration forms submitted by an advocacy group.

U.S. trade gap narrows as global economy stalls
Exports drop by largest percentage in four years in August

The U.S. trade deficit narrowed in August, as consumers curbed their spending on imported goods, a government report showed Friday. The nation's trade deficit narrowed by 3.5% to $59.1 billion, the Commerce Department said.

U.S. government may take ownership stakes in banks

News that the Bush administration is considering taking ownership stakes in a number of U.S. banks helped restore a relative calm over global financial markets Thursday.

States’ Actions to Block Voters Appear Illegal

The New York Times

U.S. Jobless Claims Drop By 20,000 In Week
U.S. unemployment rate remained unchanged at 6.1 percent

First-time claims for U.S. unemployment insurance dropped by 20,000 during the week ending October 4, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Thursday. The 478,000 initial benefits claims contributed to a four-week rolling average to 498,000, which was an increase of 8,250 from the previous week's rolling average.

Fed, ECB, Central Banks Cut Rates in Coordinated Move

The Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, and four other central banks lowered interest rates in an unprecedented coordinated effort to ease the economic effects of the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Treasury to sell more debt to deal with borrowing

The Treasury Department, facing huge borrowing needs because of the government's $700 billion rescue program, says it will increase the size of Treasury securities being sold to the public.

More than 300 arrested in immigration sweep

More than 300 suspected illegal immigrants were arrested Tuesday morning at a chicken processing plant near Greenville, S.C. - the latest in a stepped-up federal enforcement effort that has resulted in the deportation of thousands of illegal workers in recent months.

Trying to Ease Credit, I.R.S. Eases Loan Regulations

The Internal Revenue Service has taken steps to help ease the credit crisis by allowing corporations to ramp up their use of tax-free loans from overseas subsidiaries. The program, quietly announced by the I.R.S. late Friday, was devised at the behest of the Treasury Department, which oversees the agency.

Most Americans Support Revision of U.S. Policy towards Cuba

A recent poll revealed that most American voters support a revision of the U.S. Government’s policy towards Cuba.

FDA Sets Safety Threshold for Contaminant Melamine

Responding to concerns about the presence of the contaminant melamine in numerous foods made in China and exported to the United States and elsewhere, the Food and Drug Administration said yesterday that consuming a very small amount of the chemical poses no serious risk.

U.S. seeks monitoring of Chinese textile imports

Cotton Belt congressional members joined their colleagues and the U.S. cotton and textile industry in a call to broaden a key textile import monitoring program. With the strong support of the National Cotton Council, textile associations and a labor union, 73 U.S. congressmen led by Textile Caucus co-chairs Howard Coble, R-N.C., and John Spratt, D-S.C., sent a letter on Sept. 26 to President Bush urging his administration to extend and expand the Textile Monitoring Program to cover U.S. textile and apparel imports from China beginning Jan. 1, 2009, the first day following the expiration of a U.S.-China textile bilateral agreement signed in 2005.

High court term begins quietly in campaign season

The Supreme Court is doing its best to stay out of the spotlight in the final days of the presidential campaign and while the other two branches of government struggle to deal with turmoil in the financial markets.

Number Of Homeless Families Rising Nationwide

The nation's financial crisis has plunged more Americans into a personal financial crisis that sees the number of homeless individuals and families rising nationwide.

United Nations:

Is North Korea set to come off U.S. terror-sponsor list?

New reports indicate that the U.S. could remove North Korea from the list of nations supporting terrorism very soon, resolving a key issue in convincing North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons. But Japanese resistance to the deal may put it on hold.

Amnesty protests death penalty use worldwide

Anti-death penalty activists staged a mock hanging outside the Japanese embassy Friday to mark the European day against the death penalty, calling on nations around the world to stop executions.

NATO Agrees to Allow Afghan Anti-Drug Missions

NATO defense ministers agreed to allow alliance troops in Afghanistan to combat narcotics traffickers funding an increasingly deadly Taliban insurgency.

North Korea to restart nuke plant, bans U.N. staff from complex: U.N. agency

North Korea announced Thursday that it is preparing to restart the facility that produced its atomic bomb, clearly indicating it plans to completely pull out of an international deal to end its nuclear program.

France earmarks €400 million for green cars

French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Thursday pledged €400 million ($549 million) in state support for the development of electric and hybrid cars.

Global Warming Triggers an International Race for the Arctic
As the ice melts, national rivalries heat up over oil and gas deposits and shipping routes

A new epoch is beginning at the top of the Earth, where the historic melting of the vast Arctic ice cap is opening a forbidding, beautiful, and neglected swath of the planet. Already, there is talk that potentially huge oil and natural gas deposits lie under the Arctic waters, rendered more accessible by the shrinking of ice cover. Valuable minerals, too. Sea lanes over the top of the world will dramatically cut shipping times and costs. Fisheries and tourism will shift northward. In short, the frozen, fragile north will never be the same.

Rainforest dwellers caught between business, green groups

Indigenous leaders in five Amazonian nations, Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia on Wednesday demanded a larger say on how best to manage tropical forests to fight climate change.

China announces permissible levels of melamine in milk

The Chinese Health Ministry announced on Wednesday new limits set by the government on the amount of the industrial chemical melamine to be permitted in dairy products, but it refused to provide updated statistics on the number of people who have died or fallen ill from ingesting melamine-tainted dairy products.

On International Day, U.N. stresses need to make hospitals safe from disasters

United Nations officials are marking the International Day for Disaster Reduction with a call to invest more to make hospitals safe in the event of natural hazards such as earthquakes and cyclones, stressing that doing so not only saves lives but is highly cost-effective.

U.N. calls for tougher financial regulation

The United Nations called on Tuesday for tougher regulation of financial markets to deal with the "crisis of a century" and warned that the global policy response risked creating a prolonged deflationary downturn.

U.N. calls for review on biofuel subsidies

A U.N. agency on Tuesday called for an urgent review of agriculture and biofuel subsidies and trade barriers, saying their removal would increase opportunities for developing countries to take advantage of rising biofuel demand.

Russia asks E.U. to monitor its troop pullout from Georgia

E.U. observers in Georgia will be monitoring the withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from the buffer zone next to South Ossetia, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry said Tuesday.

Brighton aims to become United Nations 'biosphere reserve'

Brighton is launching a campaign to become the first city in the world to be recognised by the United Nations as a "biosphere reserve." The accolade is awarded by Unesco to areas which "innovate and demonstrate approaches to conservation and sustainable development."

Global stocks, oil fall as crisis fears widen

Fears of deepening bank problems in Europe and wider economic woes around the world slammed global equity markets and pushed oil prices lower on Monday, sending investors fleeing to safe-haven investments.

Tighter credit threatens Asia CO2 credit pipeline

The deepening credit crisis in the Western world has slowed buying of secondary carbon offsets and threatens to stymie financing for emissions-reducing projects across Asia, putting in doubt the future flow of credits.

Commentary:

Obama, ACORN & Their Starring Role in the Mortgage Crisis
By Frank Salvato

Barack Obama, congressional Democrats and Progressive-Left operatives – with the help of the mainstream media – have done a great job of spinning culpability for the mortgage crisis onto the Bush Administration, congressional Republicans and, in particular, John McCain. This is a notable moment in the history of political spin because as the facts present, Democrats and Progressive-Leftists – not Republicans –are the ones directly responsible for the current financial crisis in which our country is embroiled. At the center of this culpability are Barack Obama and ACORN, the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now.

When a Society Listens to Babies
By Selwyn Duke

It was a long time ago that George Bernard Shaw said that youth was wasted on the young, but truths never get old. This occurred to me today when I came across one of the stupidest columns imaginable.

The Audacity of Obama
By Phyllis Schlafly

When Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination, many had high hopes that his breakthrough would move American social consciousness forward into a post-racial era. Many thought the time had come when candidates would be judged by their qualifications and dedication to our country, not by their race.

America's greatest dander this November: Millions of illegal voters
By Frosty Wooldridge

November 4, 2008, marks the first time in U.S. history whereby countless foreign nationals known as illegal aliens or non-citizens may contaminate the U.S. presidential and Congressional elections. When all it takes to win may be a few percentage points, illegal aliens grow in their power to throw an election.

House Democrats Push Climate Tax While Negotiating Fiscal Bailout
By Marc Morano

During a week where Americans were focused on perhaps the greatest economic challenges this country has faced in over a generation, House Democrats released a set of principles on October 2nd that outline an aggressive plan to cap greenhouse gas emissions.

Gun Owners of America Releases Congressional Voter Guide
Elections will produce tremendous impact on gun owners' rights
By Gun Owners of America

With the election less than one month away, Gun Owners of America is doing its best to keep gun owners informed about who is protecting your rights in the Congress. Many gun owners are familiar with the differences between the candidates at the presidential level, but how well do they know the views and actions of those who are running at the congressional level?

Tesoro calling the ethanol kettle black?
By Bobby Fontaine

This week, Tesoro Corporation, a Fortune 150 company, one of the biggest oil refiners in the world launched a lawsuit against the state of California alleging that new rules for air quality will worsen pollution rather than make it safer. Central to their complaints is the raising of the rate ethanol added gasoline from 5.7 percent to 10 percent. Ethanol is the only true threat to the monopoly fossil fuels have over our transportation industry so a lawsuit by them against ethanol has to be viewed carefully.

Let's Be Energy Independent, Not
By Mark J. Perry

“Energy independence” is a bad idea. Every individual understands that it is far better to depend on others for most of what we want rather than trying to do everything for ourselves. This is true whether we’re buying oil or haircuts. The principle applies to groups of individuals living in large geographical areas called countries.

T. Boone Pickens: New kind of Prairie Rustler
By Tom DeWeese

Over the summer he was all the rage - a Texas oil billionaire ready to make a difference and get the U.S. off of foreign oil dependency. Pickens certainly advocates drilling more American oil, but also came up with a reasonable-sounding plan to make wind power a reality. "We're the Saudi Arabia of Wind," he said. Then he spent $58 million to sell the idea to the American people and to force pro-wind legislation through Congress.

The Do-Something Congress
By Ron Paul

It has not been a good week for the Republic. It took quite a bit of trampling of the Constitution, but the bailout bill passed, as I suspected it would. The bailout failed the first time it was brought to the House.

The Ethanol Election Issue
By Alan Caruba

The issue of the nation’s financial and economic security is likely to dominate the November 4 election. Earlier in the campaign cycle we might have assumed that foreign affairs and energy would be uppermost on the minds of voters, but we’re told that, ultimately, voters vote their pocketbooks.

To understand a depression, examine a healthy economy
By Marshall Brain McClatchy

Recently you have probably heard an ominous sentence that goes something like this, “The United States may be on the verge of another Great Depression.” You may have heard it more than once, because a number of people have been throwing this idea around lately.

Columbus Day Celebrates Western Civilization
By Thomas A. Bowden

On October 12, 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered the New World, opening a sea route to vast uncharted territories that awaited the spread of Western civilization. Centuries later, the ensuing cultural migration culminated in the birth and explosive growth of the greatest nation in history: the United States of America.

U.S. should improve its reputation abroad
What other nations think of us, why we should care and what we can do about it.
By Ronald M. Bosrock

The 2008 Pew Global Attitudes Survey has been published, and once again the United States receives a highly negative reputation among the countries surveyed.

The Dems did it!
By Henry Lamb

When Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, and other upstanding Democrats point to the "failed policies" of the Bush administration as the cause of the current chaos in the financial markets, they are deliberately trying to transfer the spotlight from their own party's mistakes. The current crisis can be traced directly to President Clinton's revision of the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act, or CRA.

"When You Build Your House on Quicksand!"
By Ron Ewart

Regarding the fate of America, a picture comes to mind of an old railroad roundhouse, with railroad tracks extending in all directions from the roundhouse, like spokes on a wheel. On each track is a run-away train and it is headed straight for the roundhouse at top speed. There is no engineer in the locomotive, the throttles have been set to "full speed ahead" and the automatic brakes on every train have been disengaged.

Archived articles for
the week of
September 29 - October 3, 2008

Environmental:

Are Insurers Going Green or Just Greenwashing?

Every company, it seems these days, claims to be a green company, but I've often wondered how true many of those claims really are. For instance, paperless billing and e-payments are sometimes promoted as green initiatives, but can companies with such initiatives really call themselves green when they still conduct large-scale direct mail marketing campaigns?

Experts agree: Environmental standards needed for biofuels

The United States lacks the standards to ensure that producing biofuels from cellulose won't cause environmental harm, says a distinguished group of international scientists. But because the industry is so young, policymakers have an exceptional opportunity to develop incentive programs to ensure the industry doesn’t harm the environment.

How white roofs shine bright green
Painting homes a lighter shade does more than save money on A.C.

Can you help save the planet by painting your roof white? Hashem Akbari thinks so. Global warming’s complexity and momentum have led to a try-everything approach by scientists. In that spirit, Dr. Akbari offers his simple yet profound innovation for slowing that warming way down.

Regulating global warming: expanding the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency

In May 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court decided that greenhouse gases met the definition of an air pollutant in the Clean Air Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) responded in 2008 by issuing an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) that explains how the Clean Air Act applies to regulating emissions of greenhouse gases thought to contribute to global warming.

'Clean coal' policies absent, GAO finds

Federal policy-makers have taken few of the steps necessary if greenhouse emissions from coal-fired power plants are to be captured and stored underground, according to a new government report.

EPA's Environment Report Targets Trends

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its "2008 Report on the Environment Highlights," a resource citizens can use to easily understand broad trends in the condition of the air, water, and land, and related changes in human health and the environment in the United States, according to a Sept. 24 press release.

Dim Bulbs: Those Squiggly “Green” Light Bulbs Could Hurt the Environment, Study Says

The law of unintended consquences strikes again — this time with light bulbs. A new study published today in the journal Environmental Science and Technology (sub reqd.) concludes that the shift away from old, incandescent light bulbs to more-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs carries plenty of environmental trade-offs.

National Emissions Cap Needed to Drive CCS Technology - GAO Report

A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report released today says climate-fighting carbon sequestration technologies won't significantly advance until a national strategy to regulate carbon emissions and interagency cooperation measures are established. The report shines a light on the lack of leadership from the Bush administration on global warming and climate-friendly technologies.

Feds sued over wolverine status

Environmental groups claiming the government put politics over science in refusing to protect wolverines under the Endangered Species Act filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking federal protection for the elusive member of the weasel family.

Will "burger laws" be needed to tackle climate change?

Report claims limiting ourselves to three burgers a week is necessary keep food-related greenhouse gas emissions at a constant, and warns regulation may be needed to change diets.

Dell switches to eco-friendly LEDs for laptop screens

Dell Inc. is switching to mercury-free light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, to illuminate laptop screens starting in mid-December, a move that will make the computers softer on the environment and easier to recycle.

The Prince of Wales outlines concerns about climate change in interview

In an interview published today in Weather, the magazine of the Royal Meteorological Society, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales talks about his longstanding interest in the weather and its impact on the environment. The interview covers His Royal Highness's love of gardening and his environmental work to protect the rainforests, as well as his memories of the impact of weather on communities at home and abroad.

Low polluters could be hurt most

Companies with relatively low carbon emissions could suffer the most under an emissions trading scheme, through cost increases passed on from suppliers, private sector research shows.

Make Your Home Eco-Friendly with "Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies"

Soaring oil and natural gas prices, recession fears, and growing concern over global warming are driving Americans to find ways to save money, decrease household energy use, and help the environment. "Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies," by design engineer Rik DeGunther, provides homeowners with clear-cut advice, tips, and projects to reduce costs, increase energy efficiency, and cut down on waste and pollution.

Species law could be altered

A crashing Delta ecosystem suggests that now is not a good time to tweak the Endangered Species Act, conservationists argue. But federal officials are proposing the first changes in two decades. In a plan up for public comment, the Bush administration wants to grant federal agencies the power to sometimes decide themselves whether a project, such as building a bridge, is likely to harm threatened or endangered species.

Property Rights:

Council seizes control of ‘blighted’ mill

For the first time that any town official can remember, Sanford is taking a building by eminent domain, a process wherein a municipality takes ownership of a property without the owner’s consent. While Maine prohibits the power of eminent domain to condemn a property for the purpose of private development, the law makes an exception in the case of blight.

Targeting ATV trespassing

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office is cracking down on people who ride all-terrain vehicles and trespass on parish residents’ private farms and property. Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal announced Tuesday the formation of a task force that will help farmers in minimizing the damage to crops and equipment from illegal ATV use and other vandalism on their property. Ackal said this issue was raised during his campaign for sheriff.

Muddled ruling brings little clarity in battle for beaches

For almost two years, beach restoration critics and supporters have shared a rare common ground. They have all watched and waited for the Florida Supreme Court to wade into the fray and determine once and for all if beach restoration is a state duty or an illegal land grab.

Zoning Toward Oblivion

KeIo v. City of New London

Bike path dispute suits heading to trial

Parties battling over a new bicycle path will meet with Licking County Common Pleas Judge Thomas Marcelain this month for a pre-trial hearing. The focus will be on procedural matters and will likely set a schedule to bring the dispute to trial if necessary. A request that Licking County judges voluntarily remove themselves from hearing the case has been denied.

Landowner Ford stays put as Music Row standoff ends

A $70 million Music Row project has cleared a major obstacle after the developer and city officials reached a high-profile compromise with landowner Joy Ford on Wednesday that saves her business from the bulldozer.

Is Portland blighted?

Blight, that pesky, thorn-in-the side issue many a town leader has been plagued by of late, has raised its ugly head again in Portland.

New port missing rail connection

Depending on where you stand on the issues of lifestyle and economic development, talk of increased port traffic is either the sweet drum of river water on the belly of a port ship or the disquieting sound of more container trucks rumbling down Interstate 26.

County appeals verdict in Selah land dispute case

Two months after a jury awarded a Selah woman more than $170,000 in a land dispute case, Yakima County is appealing the verdict. Attorney Jamie Carmody, who is representing Maxine Schreiner, received notice of the appeal on Tuesday. The case will be forwarded to a three-judge panel in the Washington State Court of Appeals, based in Spokane.

Property Owners Fighting New Wind Farms In East County

It may soon be getting easier for energy corporations to build wind farms in the East County. Several firms are already offering landowners money for the rights to build huge wind turbines on private property. Now, the energy companies are taking their fights to the County Board of Supervisors.

High court rules beach restoration must go on

Florida's highest court handed Destin city leaders a long-awaited victory Monday when the justices determined that beach restoration is a duty of the state. The seven justices ruled against six Destin-area beachfront property owners who wanted to stop the state from rebuilding their eroded beaches.

Hunting-dog owners are being targeted

In a state considered the American birthplace of hunting with hounds, George Washington's favorite sport has become a target for some Virginia landowners who say baying dogs and their owners are trampling property rights.

Local family caught in right-of-way pipeline lawsuit

A dry gas well may result in a lawsuit against a Vilonia family involving a right-of-way for a pipeline being solved before it goes to court. Arkansas Midstream Gas Services Corporation (a wholly owned subsidiary of Chesapeake Entergy) vs. Mark Wren Alexander, Jamie Elaine Alexander, William Charles Alexander, Tina Lee Alexander and Sue Alexander was filed Sept. 11 in the Circuit Court of Faulkner County by Midstream attorney Jerry Canfield.

White Plains group aims to link 15 miles for trail

An open-space committee at City Hall is assembling pieces of land for what would be one of Westchester's longest hiking trails. The 15-mile loop of trails from the Rosedale neighborhood at the city's south end to the watershed land in the north would traverse golf courses, corporate parks, schoolyards, nature trails, and the Burke and New York-Presbyterian hospital grounds.

Can the Florida Keys Become a National Park?

Florida Keys Keynoter

Energy:

Solar industry urges Congress to pass tax credit

The solar industry was urging the U.S. House of Representatives to follow in the Senate’s footsteps after Senators voted Wednesday in favor of the $700 billion financial bailout package that also included an extension of the solar energy tax credit for eight years.

To drill or not to drill: Both sides of the issue air views to tourism officials at Sandestin

Oil industry experts Thursday discussed the benefits of drilling off Florida's Gulf Coast and the safety precautions that have been implemented to safeguard against spills.

IOCs are uniquely positioned to solve energy crisis

Today it is a truism to say that the world of energy is changing. Some describe what is happening as unprecedented. Some define it as a crisis. People point to rising demand and are concerned about the finite supply of hydrocarbon resources to meet it, and yet they fear the impact of carbon use on global warming.

Tired of Gas Shortages, Drivers Lash Out at Politicians

Tired of waiting in long lines or simply running out of gas, angry drivers in the Southeast are lashing out at politicians, demanding that their leaders do more to get fuel flowing to the region.

Bailout bill includes $150 billion in energy, other tax breaks

The $700 billion bank rescue bill approved by the Senate Wednesday night includes $150 billion in tax cuts for alternative energy and other breaks for businesses and individuals.

Renewable Energy Shift May Create Jobs
Report: 4.2 Million New 'Green' Jobs possible

A big shift to renewable energy and efficiency could produce 4.2 million new environmentally friendly jobs over the next three decades.

Paterson signs bills aimed at gasoline price inequities

Governor David Paterson has signed two bills aimed at reducing the cost of gasoline that had been pushed by State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. The first bill, “The Consumer Protection and Fair and Equitable Motor Fuel Pricing Act,” prohibits zone pricing of gasoline, a common practice on the South Fork of Long Island. Zone pricing is a practice used by oil companies to set prices based on the demographics of an area, not based on the cost of shipping the fuel there.

PGMs playing their part in advanced biofuel development

A leading renewable energy research firm yesterday (30th September) championed the role played by platinum group metals in the development of commercially-viable advanced biofuels.

Offshore oil drilling ban lapses today

As the 26-year ban on oil drilling along the North Coast lapses today, environmentalists say a new threat has emerged in Congress and a protective measure for the Sonoma County coast appears to have languished in the Senate.

‘Clean, safe and economical’: Local organizations save money through natural gas vehicles

With gasoline prices still painfully high, consumers are trying just about everything to lessen the impact they have on their budgets. While many are scrambling for options, a couple of organizations in town are feeling very pleased about the vans they acquired a few years ago and are using extensively now.

Solarworks NJ signs $14 million agreement to develop solar farm

SolarWorks NJ, LLC, a leading provider of turnkey solar electricity installations and renewable energy solutions, announced today plans to develop a solar farm on twelve acres of land owned by Suncatcher Clean Energy LLC in Williamstown, New Jersey. The solar farm will be the largest solar farm energy system in South Jersey and one of the largest systems in the state.

Crude Oil Rises on Signs U.S. Will Revive Bank Bailout Plan

Crude oil rose, rebounding from its biggest drop in seven years, after U.S. lawmakers said they intend to salvage a $700 billion bank-rescue package that may avert an economic slowdown.

Despite lifting of U.S. ban, new drilling unlikely off California's coast

It was largely overlooked amid Wall Street's meltdown, but Congress made a major environmental shift last week when lawmakers dropped a 26-year ban on new offshore oil drilling off the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

Electrical-field device could boost gas efficiency

With the high cost of gasoline and diesel fuel impacting costs for automobiles, trucks, buses and the overall economy, a Temple University physics professor has developed a simple device which could dramatically improve fuel efficiency as much as 20 percent.

Inhofe Blasts Senate Democrats Attempt to Reinstate Oil Shale Moratorium

Today, U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe ( R-Okla. ), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, today blasted the Democrats' attempt to reinstate the moratorium on oil shale development as included in a Democratic "stimulus" bill. The Motion to Proceed to S. 3604 failed.

National:

Illegal immigrant inflow to the U.S. lags that of legal immigrants

For the first time in a decade, the makeup of the U.S. immigrant population may be shifting, with the number of illegal immigrants entering the country falling behind the number of those entering legally, according to an independent report released Thursday.

Wary of Public Outcry, Revised $800B Wall St. Bailout Stuffed With Earmarks to Sway Election-Year Incumbents

On Capitol Hill, the House is preparing to vote again on the revised $800 billion dollar Wall Street bailout plan after rejecting a similar bill on Monday. All 432 seats in the House are up for election next month and many “no” votes on Monday reflected lawmakers’ fears of a voter backlash for the unpopular bill. An array of “pork barrel” projects have been inserted into the legislation to win support from nervous incumbents.

Assessments interfere with learning

When a school’s state assessment score goes up, that’s cause for alarm, said Alfie Kohn, a former teacher, author and highly vocal opponent of the No Child Left Behind Act, during a community lecture Thursday night.

Voting goes to court
Registration lawsuits could shape election

In a furious, multistate campaign raging far from television cameras and cable TV chatter, scores of lawyers are arguing over the voting rights of perhaps millions of Americans who plan to cast ballots in the presidential election.

The United States Public Debt Tops Ten Trillion Dollars for the First Time

According to Treasury Direct, the total public debt outstanding for the United States of America topped ten trillion dollars for the first time as of September 30th, 2008. The total public debt outstanding? $10,024,724,896,912.49 and counting.

House braces for second try at financial bailout plan

After gliding to victory in the Senate late Wednesday, the Bush administration’s proposed $700 billion financial rescue plan heads back to the House, where its prospects remain uncertain despite the inclusion of tax breaks and consumer perks designed to win over enough votes to push it through.

Revamped U.S. citizenship test goes into effect

Do you know the name of the current speaker of the House? Or why the United States flag has 13 stripes? Or the role of the president's cabinet? These are some of the 100 questions in a new citizenship test that went into effect today.

Governor Perry wants $24 million to fight border crime

Governor Rick Perry, saying violent gangs are "spreading like a virus" along the southern border, said Tuesday Texas lawmakers need to spend millions more to beef up law enforcement and fight international smugglers.

Senate to Vote Today on the Bailout Plan

Senate leaders scheduled a Wednesday vote on a $700 billion financial bailout package after accepting tax breaks and a higher limit for insured bank deposits in a bid to win House approval and send legislation to President Bush by the end of the week.

With bailout stalled, the Fed and Treasury fall back on existing tools

For the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department, it is crunch time. Without the broad bailout plan they invented and lobbied hard for, the two agencies are once again forced to careen from one crisis to another, and to dig deep into their tool kits to rescue the global financial system. Even before the House stunned the world Monday by rejecting the administration's bailout bill, the Fed was already resorting to the oldest action in its book: printing money.

Americans are adjusting to the economic crisis

By now we all know that the United States is in the middle of an economic crisis. It is hard to turn on the television without hearing about it. There have been problems with rising gas prices, the housing market, and now the financial fiasco on Wall Street.

Minds made up, millions voting early
Confident in their choice, won't wait for Election Day

If you have already made up your mind in the presidential race, is there any point to waiting until Election Day to vote? For millions of voters over the next few weeks, the answer will be no.

U.S. House begins debate on financial rescue plan

The U.S. House of Representatives voted on Monday to begin debate on legislation for a financial markets rescue plan, clearing the way for a final vote later in the day that would send the measure to the Senate.

Orange County pastors test the IRS rule against politicking

Two Orange County ministers were among dozens across the country taking politics to the pulpit Sunday in hopes of influencing the November 4 presidential election. Unlike some pastors elsewhere who endorsed Republican John McCain during "Pulpit Freedom Sunday," the two ministers stopped short of explicitly recommending that worshipers vote for either McCain or Democrat Barack Obama. But they were not shy about raising politics in church.

Greenhouse gas sold for $3.07 a ton

The nation’s first cap-and-trade greenhouse gas auction sold the right to pump carbon dioxide into the atmosphere at $3.07 a ton. The results of Thursday’s sealed bid, online auction by the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative were released today. All 12.5 million allowances were sold and 59 bidders representing energy, financial and environmental interests participated. A minimum price of $1.86 had been set.

United Nations:

Peasants Say New Ecuador Constitution Allows Them To Take Land

Ecuador's new leftist constitution, approved by a landslide in a weekend referendum, has triggered occupations by impoverished peasants who believe the document authorizes them to take over unused land.

Will Russia Join the U.N.’s Protocol on Biosafety?

Our planet is the treasury of various living beings. Scientists have invented the special term to cover all existing living organisms – “biological diversity," which is a variation of life forms at all levels of biological organization, including terrestrial, marine and other water ecosystems. This term includes diversity within a species and among species, and comparative diversity among ecosystems. Homo sapiens species is also a part of planetary ecosystem..

Syria: military sites off limits to U.N. nuke agency

Syria pledged Friday to cooperate with a U.N. probe of allegations it had a hidden nuclear program that could be harnessed to make weapons but said its military sites would remain off limits — a condition that could hamstring the investigations.

U.N. follows British lead and orders staff in Pakistan to evacuate children amid security fears

The United Nations is following Britain's example and ordering its international staff in Pakistan to send their home because of the deteriorating security situation. The move comes after a suicide truck bomb killed 55 people last month and amid spiralling tensions between Pakistan and the U.S. over American incursions there.

Ethiopia, Norway agree to re-build diplomatic ties after one year

Ethiopia and Norway have agreed to restore their relations after a diplomatic row that lasted one year, a statement issued by the Ethiopian Foreign Affairs ministry said Thursday in Addis Ababa.

Financial Crisis Dim Hopes Of New U.N. Climate Treaty

The global financial crisis is dampening hopes for a robust new United Nations agreement to combat global climate change, analysts say. However, it may help foster some low-cost green initiatives, such as insulating buildings to save energy.

U.N. nuclear agency and French institute boost ties to help developing nations

The United Nations atomic watchdog agency is boosting cooperation with a leading French research institute in the use of nuclear techniques to address the needs of developing countries in such areas as pest control, and soil and water management.

Amnesty law 'unacceptable,' says CAR rebel leader

A law passed in the Central African Republic to protect rebels and certain goverment officials from prosecution for some crimes is "unacceptable," rebel leader Jean-Jacques Demafouth said Wednesday.

Putin says U.S. irresponsible in dealing with crisis

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin criticised the United States on Wednesday for what he said was the country's inability to deal with the financial crisis affecting the global economy.

Taiwan and The U.N.

The 63rd Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations currently underway in New York will not do justice to the 23 million people of Taiwan, if they fail to admit the Republic of China on Taiwan (ROC) into the U.N. Taiwan has made several attempts in the past to rejoin the world body but to no avail.

U.N. health agency issues guidelines on melamine-contaminated food

With the crisis of contaminated milk products in China having driven over 54,000 children to seek medical treatment, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) has issued preliminary guidance to help authorities decide on the health concerns of melamine levels in food.

E.U. urges U.S. to approve rescue plan

The European Commission Tuesday urged US lawmakers to assume their responsibilities and swiftly approve a massive rescue plan amid global financial turmoil.

Ecuador referendum endorses new socialist constitution

Constitution contains provisions aimed at reducing poverty as well as giving the president more control over the army and the right to stand for two more terms. Ecuador's president, Rafael Correa, has won a referendum on a new constitution that will implement leftist reforms, including increased state control over monetary and oil policy.

U.N. Nuclear Conference Begins in Vienna

The U.N. nuclear agency's annual conference starts Monday in Vienna, with a showdown looming over bids by Syria and Iran to gain more influence, and Islamic anger about Israel's nuclear program.

U.N. Program to Fight Deforestation

Last week the United Nations launched a program by which developed nations will pay poorer nations to preserve their forests and plant new trees.

Commentary:

We Should End The Unfair Monopoly Enjoyed By The Post Office
By Dave Gibson

American industries are subject to anti-trust laws which prohibit the formation of monopolies and leave open the door to fair competition. However, those laws do not apply to the Postal Service. That orgainzation survives because of federal regulations which protect their monopoly on First Class mail. These laws provide an unfair advantage over private sector competitors, thus assuring lower standards in their operations.

The Bailout: Have We Learned Nothing?
By Kathy Jones

Eight years after the Enron debacle, Wall Street was supposed to have learned its lesson about creative accounting, excessive risk-taking and corporate greed. Government regulators and ratings agencies were supposed to be chastened, too. Instead, the rules never really changed, and we are now facing far deeper crises, according to financial author Bethany McLean.

The Reid-McConnell Bailout Bribe
By Frank Salvato

Let me see if I have this right. We the People express our overwhelming disdain for a government manufactured, taxpayer-funded bailout of semi-coerced greed merchants on Wall Street and the Senate’s answer is to leave the offending legislation intact and entice weak politicians into voting for the package by adding sweetheart tax legislation to it. Can this possibly – in the most incredible of circumstances – be correct?

America in it's greatest crisis since the Great Depression
By Frosty Wooldridge

Denver's radio talk show host Peter Boyles of www.khow.com, said, “America is in the greatest crisis since the Great Depression.” How do you suppose we arrived at this moment? Take a guess at America’s number one export in the past 10 years! Food? Oil? Steel? Textiles?

The Obama Youth
By Selwyn Duke

It really does seem that the more evil a movement is, the more likely it is to enlist children in its cause. Well, they really do make beautiful little human shields. In the above video, 22 young, impressionable victims of misguided parents are singing a song in homage to Barack Obama as if he's a god . . . or an extremely good imposter.

The Great Veep Debate: A Preview
By Alan Caruba

Thursday night will be the great debate between the vice presidential candidates, Sen. Joe Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin. Pundits are already predicting who will win or lose depending on their political preference.

Does Trade Policy Matter?
By Philip I. Levy

As hard as it may be, it is worth trying to reinvigorate the global trade environment. Public opinion is skeptical, and the political obstacles are substantial, but the benefits of a revitalized trade system strongly outweigh the drawbacks. Resting on our trade laurels not only would forego future gains, but would threaten the trade gains of the postwar era that we currently enjoy. This Outlook launches a new series on international economic policy issues. It is part of AEI's new Program in International Economics.

Give Us Our Money Back. We’ll Fix It!
By Frank Salvato

The ultimate example of opportunistic politics before good government was displayed in Washington over the past several days. Political operatives from both sides of the aisle did everything in their power to create a government-based solution to the financial crisis facing our country; a government-created problem. In the end the U.S. House of Representatives voted down the highly contentious Wall Street bailout bill mostly due to the fact that we are within the 30-day window when voters do not forget actions taken by their elected officials. If only the public’s attention were always so focused.

$920 billion more to bail out the world
By Cliff Kincaid

With one socialist “bailout” bill apparently on the way to passage by Congress, two more are pending—both of them sponsored by Senator Barack Obama. One is the Jubilee Act, which would cancel as much as $75 billion worth of Third World debt, and the Global Poverty Act, which would cost an estimated $845 billion. Total potential cost: $920 billion.

Politics versus economics
By Alan Caruba

Congress reminds me a lot of the Wizard of Oz these days. They keep telling us to ignore the man behind the curtain, but they are the man behind the curtain.

Socialist "bailout" could spark collapse
By Cliff Kincaid

While many of the talking heads and pundits on TV have been providing calming words of reassurance about proposed federal intervention in the financial system, analyst Peter Schiff of Euro Pacific Capital has been accurately warning for years about a financial meltdown and says that the worst, if Congress eventually passes the “bailout” bill, is yet to come.

Who Buried Capitalism?
By Michael J. Hurd

A journalist wrote me the following: "I always say both Democrats and Republicans want to transfer wealth. Democrats want to take from the rich and give to the poor. Republicans want to take from the poor and give to the rich. This [proposed government bailout] only proves my point."

Soviet-style collapse in America's future?
By Henry Lamb

The meltdown in the financial markets has caused the finger of blame to spin like a weathervane in a hurricane. The underlying cause of the debacle, however, has been largely ignored. Driven by "progressive" Democrats and Republicans, the cause is the relentless shift from a free market economy to a socialist economy.

Grand Theft America
By Stephen Lendman

The crime of the century. The greatest one ever. Author Danny Schechter calls it "Plunder." The title of his important new book on the subprime and overall financial crisis. Economist Michael Hudson and others refer to a kleptocracy. A Ponzi scheme writ large. Maybe an out-of-control Andromeda Strain. An economic one. Deadly. Unrecallable. Science fiction now real life. Potentially catastrophic. World governments trying to contain it. Trying everything but not sure what can work. Maybe only able to paper it over for short-term relief. Buy time but in the end vindicate the maxim that things that can't go on forever, won't.

You Can Influence Terrorist Plans
By Fred Gielow

What do you think of this reasoning: Let's say you're a terrorist and you're thinking about the next big attack. Should it be in the U.S.? Well, certainly not any time in the next month or so, because such an attack would enrage the American public, it would motivate them to vote for a real anti-terrorist candidate, and that would be John McCain. If elected, Mr. McCain will be a whole lot tougher on terrorism than Mr. Obama. Therefore, perhaps we can conclude there won't be any major terror activities here in the states until some time after election day.