Al Gore

Next week Congress will take a break and return to their homes and districts. While they're back the Sierra Club hopes that North Carolinians will urge their representatives to push energy and climate legislation to the forefront of debate. Over the last few months the idea of an energy only bill has been tossed around, in the end not passing comprehensive legislation that includes a price on carbon would be irresponsible. If we want legislation that creates jobs, decreases our dependence on foreign oil, and reduces pollution Congress needs to pass climate legislation too.

Of course if I can't convince you of the importance maybe this will.

Oh wait, he already has. Anyway, if you’re read this far, keep going.

Cross posted from Sustainable Futures

How do you like the creative title of this post – catchy, eh?

This past week I got to attend the DNC Convention and take in some of the music on Thursday. So here are a few clips which include:
Chuck D (with intro from Jim Hightower and an interview with Chuck D himself)
Yonder Mountain String Band
Sheryl Crow
(Sorry I could not include Stevie Wonder's 'Signed Sealed and Delivered' - too busy singing and dancing)

And, some highlights of Al Gore and of Barack Obama speaking...

A masterpiece, fierce, strong, meaty, best convention speech since Kennedy, 44 minutes of fireworks, were the reactions of pundits immediately following Obama’s historic acceptance speech, “America’s Promise.”

Obama Accepts the Nomination

When Al Gore spends time at the North Carolina coast he stays at Figure Eight Island in a 7,000 square foot house voted most likely to fall into the ocean.  A thin stretch of beach separates the house from the rising sea along with a temporary line of sand bags 25 feet away, due for removal May 2008 in compliance with coastal regulations.  Sand bags on the beach are double edged swords, protecting the land side while accelerating erosion on the ocean side.  Owner Parker Overton filed a spirited variance request with the Coastal Resources Commission in February for a March hearing. 

Part of the variance request referred to the passing of SB 599 (what I refer to as the Terminal Groin Injury Act) in 2007 due to be heard in the House 2008 which would allow a terminal groin pilot project, presumed to be destined for a location close to the house.  Among political contributors on Figure Eight Island Parker Overton and his wife are the most generous.  As recently as December 2007 they each contributed $4,000 to the campaign of Marc Basnight. 

On Saturday, one candidate got what every candidate in America has been seeking in this election year. Kind words and visible support from the latest Nobel Peace Prize Winner - former Vice President Al Gore.

More below . . . with pictures!