RENewsletter | March 20, 2011

The Free environmental newsletter from RochesterEnvironment.com

“Our Environment is changing: Keep up with the Change.”

[3/13/11 – 3/20/11]

* Need to vent? | Go to my blog: Environmental Thoughts - Rochester, NY

* Found an important Rochester environmental story from a credible source that you think needs attention? Or, an Environmental Event, Please, SEND ME THE LINK. If you think this newsletter, which continually informs our community on our local environmental news, events, actions, is worthwhile, please encourage others to sign up.

The great conundrum of our times is that in a time of rapidly occurring Climate Change and a rapid disintegration of the environment that we need to thrive and survive, mainstream media still marginalizes environmental concerns. [Check often for this continually updated list on the possible consequences of Climate Change in our region--supported by facts.] If there isn’t a quick and substantial change in how environmental concerns are reported, edited, and chosen in mainstream media, the public will continue to believe that environmental concerns are merely special interest matters, issues they can avoid if they choose.  How can we inform the public and monitor our environment without abridging our Freedoms--in enough time to safe ourselves?

Anything else you're interested in is not going to happen if you can't breathe the air and drink the water. Don't sit this one out. Do something. You are by accident of fate alive at an absolutely critical moment in the history of our planet. -- Carl Sagan

Opening Salvo | NewsLinks | Daily Updates | Events | Environmental Site of the Month | Take Action |

[Hyperlinks work by CTRL + click to follow a link]

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Opening Salvo: “The public doesn’t fully appreciate the bargain they are making with the devils of pollution, radiation, and Climate Change”

Why should the energy we use cost us so many lives and heat our planet to the boiling point? Remember also, in the long term many of the fossil fuels kill thousands over the years from particulates in the air and increasing ground-level ozone.

Charting the Human Cost of Different Types of Energy - ProPublicaSince this time last year, we’ve seen a deadly mine disaster [1], the worst oil spill in U.S. history [2], and now a nuclear crisis in Japan [3]. That got us wondering—how does one compare or quantify the human cost of different sources of energy? As it turns out, a Swiss research organization, the Paul Sherrer Institute, has been doing just that. Using data from the institute, we pulled together a few visualizations. March 18, 2011) ProPublica

Despite the attempt by environmentalist and renewable energy companies, this assumption that we have to use dirty and dangerous energy to survive continues without so much as a mention that it does not have to be this way.

The Sierra Club, for example, presents an entirely different scenario for our future than an acceptance and assumption that millions must die so we can have energy:

“We can build an unprecedented coalition of workers, non-profits and businesses to retrofit our inefficient buildings, construct new low-carbon structures, modernize our energy grid, push for laws requiring energy utilities to provide greater percentages of electricity from renewable sources, and allow companies and consumers to earn money from saving energy or generating clean power.” Clean Energy Solutions - Sierra Club

Why is it that rather than change our ways, will accept without question the dismal scenario that we can only have oil, coal, and nuclear power and all that comes with them for our future energy needs?

They say that wind and solar, which is just a small percent of our energy mix (1% wind, 1% solar), cannot do the job. But, they’ve hardly been given these renewable a chance because wind farms are constantly being fought for aesthetic reasons and solar dismissed because we don’t get enough sunshine in Rochester, NY—even though our airport just put up many of them and will reduce energy costs?

They say that renewable energy cannot survive without giant subsidies from the government even though we give billions of tax breaks to oil companies.

They say that when the wind does blow we cannot get energy and when the sun isn’t shining we cannot get power, when we know that battery storage (maybe even warming water, which is a form of energy storage) can change this equation. Also, because wind and solar power can be localized, these renewable energy sources can often be onsite instead of being put on the grid and losing much of their power in long transmission lines.

Despite the many disasters associated with our present form of energy supplies we will not move to renewable energy, we will fight every attempt to construct wind farms, we will fight subsidies for any renewable energy sources, and we will embrace a plan for our future that means putting our environment and our health at the very edge of survival.

Large majority says nuclear energy is safe | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information More than eight in 10 respondents to this week’s RBJ Daily Report Snap Poll say nuclear power is safe. And more than half think it is very safe. The poll was conducted as the Japanese government declared an emergency at one of the country’s nuclear power plants and ordered thousands evacuated after Friday’s 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami shut down its reactors. Emergency workers were forced to leave the nuclear power plant when radiation levels soared. (March 19, 2011) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information

Besides the overwhelming amount of money thrust into the media’s hands to support oil, coal, and nuclear to reinforce that these energy forms are safe and clean, there are probably a zillion psychological reasons why we hold to such a dismal future of death and destruction. We are used to the way things are. We don’t like change. We can’t imagine doing with less energy, when we want even more. We don’t believe in Climate Change because our media isn’t constantly reminding us that Climate Change is happening. We believe that in life there is a certain amount of risk and danger we have to accept because that is the way it has always has been.

But if we don’t change our ways, we really will be more than just inconvenienced with occasional nuclear fallout, sporadic oil spills, or periodic mine disasters. Oil, coal, and nuclear power are factoring into our very ability to survive because they are warming the planet or so potentially dangerous, as in nuclear power, that our ecologies will be disrupted for centuries. Climate Change and nuclear radiation will present an inconvenience us on a scale never before experienced by humanity.

Our officials say there is only a ‘slim’ change of a nuclear disaster here in the Rochester, NY region. But there shouldn’t be any.

Officials: Slim chance of nuclear leak at Ginna - Greece, NY - Greece Post Webster, N.Y. — With the unfolding nuclear disaster in Japan, northeastern Monroe County residents are reminded of the nuclear energy in their own backyard. The Ginna Nuclear Power Plant is just miles from the county border, putting Webster and Penfield residents within a 10-mile emergency zone if tragedy were to strike the plant. Although scientists have found a fault line running beneath Lake Ontario, plant officials say the Ontario plant is not in danger of being damaged by the magnitude of quakes that shook Japan last week. On Wednesday, a 4.7-magnitude quake struck about 300 miles away in Canada — near the same spot that a quake rumbled last June, shaking Rochester. Scientists have also found a fault line running through Lake Ontario. (March 18, 2011) Homepage - Greece, NY - Greece Post

FrankRegan@RochesterEnvironment.com (Click on my email for feedback)

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NewsLinks – Environmental NewsLinks – [Highlights of major environmental stories concerning our area from the past week]

· Officials: Slim chance of nuclear leak at Ginna - Greece, NY - Greece Post

· DEC Advises Public on the Potential for "Winterkills" on Area Waters - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation

· NYPA Reviewing Proposals on Wind Project - Rochester, News, Weather, Sports, and Events - 13WHAM.com

· Large majority says nuclear energy is safe | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information

· Dresden coal-fired plant shutting down this weekend - Finger Lakes Times: Local

· Free lead testing offered | Democrat and Chronicle | democratandchronicle.com

· State, federal agencies ready to regulate offshore wind development - Local News - GoErie.com/Erie Times-News

· Gov. Cuomo Calls For Closing Indian Point Nuclear Plant | New York League of Conservation Voters

· Solar Takes Off But New York Falters | New York League of Conservation Voters

· 03/17/2011: EPA Issues Extension to Greenhouse Gas Reporting Deadline

· RG&E, NYSEG report on production at plants | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information

· Officials stress safety at Ginna nuclear plant | Democrat and Chronicle | democratandchronicle.com

· Federal legislation aimed at protecting drinking water from gas drilling

· WXXI: Cuomo: Indian Point "A Matter of Concern" (2011-03-16)

· Earthquake in Canada felt in NY's Adirondacks | www.WHEC.com

· Commissioner Martens Reminds Small Communities of High Fire Risk Season and State Ban on Brush Burning - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation

· Analysis: “The content of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is accelerating super-exponentially.”

· Cuomo: NY will review safety at nuclear plant

· Wastewater is major gas-drilling issue | Democrat and Chronicle | democratandchronicle.com

· Earthquakes not likely here : News : UpperMichigansSource.com

· Plans for the Port of Rochester | www.WHEC.com

· DEC Statement on Power Driven Mobility Devices - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation

· 03/15/2011: TOMORROW: EPA, American Lung Association to Hold Press Conference to Discuss Mercury and Air Toxics Standards

· State-funded brownfield program disappoints | Press & Sun-Bulletin | pressconnects.com

· Oswego's nuclear reactors built to withstand worst earthquake, regulators say | syracuse.com

· Japan Woes May Impede U.S. Nuclear Push - NYTimes.com

· Riverkeeper wants nuclear plant shut down following Japan crisis

· Asian carp threat prompts crisis exercise - Windsor - CBC News

· A.G. SCHNEIDERMAN URGES U.S. SUPREME COURT TO UPHOLD STATES’ RIGHT TO SUE CARBON DIOXIDE POLLUTERS

· Can U.S. Nuclear Plants Handle a Major Natural Disaster?- ProPublica

· German nuclear dispute sharpened by Japan mishap - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow

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Updates – Daily Updates – [Connecting the dots on Rochester’s environment. Find out what’s going on environmentally in our area—and why you should care? Clicking on -DISCUSSION – will take you to my blog “Environmental Thoughts, NY, where you can add your comments.]

• 3/18/2011 - Useful information by the NYS Health Department about radiation from nuclear power plants. But we wouldn’t need this kind of stuff if we moved full force towards renewable energy. If we stopped blocking major wind project, including the Great Lakes Off-Shore Wind project (GLOW), if we made permitting easy for solar and wind construction, if we increase funding for battery storage (oil industry gets billions of subsidies); and if we conserved energy (absolutely no one anywhere is suggesting that folks cut back on using energy); we wouldn’t have to live with the constant fear and vigilance that living next to nuclear plants mean. We shouldn’t have to live this way; there are other options, but we act as if nuclear power points were a fact and fixture of nature. They are not. They are putting us in jeopardy because of Murphy’s Law : “It is found that anything that can go wrong at sea generally does go wrong sooner or later, so it is not to be wondered that owners prefer the safe to the scientific.... Sufficient stress can hardly be laid on the advantages of simplicity. The human factor cannot be safely neglected in planning machinery. If attention is to be obtained, the engine must be such that the engineer will be disposed to attend to it” Murphy's law - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia You shouldn’t have to take iodine pills just to live in your own home near an energy facility. OK, here what you need to know because we live near a nuclear plant: State Health Department Addresses Questions on Radiation Impact from Japan Nuclear Plants "ALBANY, N.Y. (March 17, 2011) - In the wake of last Friday's major earthquake and ensuing tsunami that damaged several nuclear power plants in Japan, State Health Commissioner Nirav R. Shah, M.D., M.P.H., is reassuring New Yorkers today that no U.S. states are expected to experience harmful levels of radiation. In addition, the New York State Department of Health (DOH) is providing the following information to address concerns about health and safety related to radiation. What is the expected impact in the United States? A number of federal agencies, including the Department of Energy (DOE), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) are continually monitoring radiation levels of air, drinking water, milk and precipitation across the country. This nationwide monitoring network, RadNet, will alert the agencies to any changes in radiation levels. Additional monitoring sites in Hawaii, Alaska and Guam have also been added in the wake of the evolving situation in Japan. At this time, no U.S. states are expected to experience harmful levels of radiation. DOH also conducts routine air monitoring for radioactivity and will be able to detect any changes in radiation levels in New York State. " (March 17, 2011) New York State Department of Health
• 3/18/2011 - Check out this useful online guide to find out the names of plants and wildlife near you—and whether there are endangered species around. eNature: ZipGuides "Know what animals and plants share your backyard? Taking a trip? Use ourZipGuides to get a comprehensive local wildlife guide to the animals and plants native to any place in the United States. Or narrow your search to focus only on Endangered Species or poisonous and dangerous species." - eNature: America's Wildlife Resource
• 3/17/2011 - Take Action by April 15th, 2011 by making public comment to the NYS DEC as to when emergency pesticide applications are determined in schools. Pest Management for Schools, Day Care Centers and Parents - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Draft Policy on Pesticide Emergency Determinations for Schools and Day Care Centers A NYSDEC Draft Policy (PDF, 74KB) is available for review entitled "Determinations Regarding Emergency Pesticide Applications at Schools and Day Care Centers and Inquiries on Related Pesticide Prohibition." Under the State Education Law and Social Services Law, as amended by Chapter 85 of the Laws of 2010, no school or day care center may apply pesticides on playgrounds, turf, and athletic or playing fields, except that an emergency application may be made, as determined by entities identified in the law, including DEC. The Draft Policy contains the procedures DEC staff would use when making such emergency determinations. It also identifies the types of emergency pesticide application requests to be considered by DEC. The draft policy includes forms for use by non-public schools and day care centers when requesting a determination from the DEC and forms for use by DEC when making a determination. (Note: Under the State Education Law, public schools seek emergency determinations from their school boards. For information, contact the school board or the State Education Department, Office of Facilities Planning at 518-474-3906.) The public comment period on the Draft Policy ends April 15, 2011. Public notice of the Draft Policy, published in the March 16, 2011 Environmental Notice Bulletin, includes the address to which comments may be submitted. (March 15, 2011) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
• 3/17/2011 - Your transportation options in our area are going to increase safety and help our environment by reducing vehicular traffic: Bike Week is coming: Bike Week 2011 | Rochester Cycling Alliance "Planning is now under way for the 2011 Bike Week (Rochester, NY). Events will be held May 20th – 27th. Watch this page for updates. If you are interested in being involved please contact our Bike Week Director at bikeweek@rochestercyclingalliance.org "
• 3/17/2011 - Good online resource for stay abreast of the events in Japan as the human and environmental disaster unfolds. Our Reading List for Following Nuclear News From Japan - ProPublica "If you’re trying to follow the news from Japan, you may be finding that the news is coming out faster than you can actually read it. We’ve compiled a few resources that we’ve found helpful as we track this developing story. With the news itself overwhelming enough as it is, we’re trying to keep it short so as not to overwhelm with quantity, but feel free to put your suggestions in the comments below. " March 15, 2011 ProPublica
• 3/17/2011 - Climate Change science should have no place in politics, but it does. How can we change this dismal state of affairs so we can become functional on the most important issue of our day? Think about it. Would you really want the major platform in the political party that runs our country to be totally ignorant about the most important issue of this century? Nature editorial, “Into ignorance,” slams GOP for “vote to overturn an aspect of climate science” « Climate Progress "That this finding is scientifically sound had no bearing on the decision to push the legislation, and Republicans on the House of Representatives’ energy and commerce committee have made clear their disdain for climate science. At a subcommittee hearing on 14 March, anger and distrust were directed at scientists and respected scientific societies. Misinformation was presented as fact, truth was twisted and nobody showed any inclination to listen to scientists, let alone learn from them. It has been an embarrassing display, not just for the Republican Party but also for Congress and the US citizens it represents. " (March 16, 2011) Climate Progress
• 3/17/2011 - Good write up in City Newspaper about RochesterEnvironment.com, my blog Environmental Thoughts, and some background as to why they exist and who I am. "Environmental Thoughts Now retired after a 30-year career with the U.S. Postal Service, Frank Regan calls himself a "full-time environmental advocate." He says he became interested in environmental issues "through philosophy and listening to programs on public broadcasting about the state of our environment." Regan's an active member of the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club, leading its zero-waste and transportation committees and serving as the group's webmaster. He blogs about environmental issues at rochesterenvironmentny.blogspot.com, an offshoot of his website, rochesterenvironment.com, which he created in 1998. Each week, Regan sends out an e-mail newsletter to about 600 subscribers. In his posts, Regan takes national or world environmental issues, such as climate change, and explains how they relate to Rochester. To stay informed and find topics for his daily writings, he keeps up with the latest news, attends numerous meetings, and keeps in contact with environmental groups. Regan hopes his visitors take his message seriously. "I hope they ‘get it,'" he says. "It's not just another issue.... It's really the moral responsibility of everybody. They have a responsibility to have an understanding of what's going on and vote properly.""Rochester NY News, Events, Restaurants, Music, Entertainment, Nightlife - Rochester City Newspaper
• 3/17/2011 - Energy options and the big lie Do we really have no “workable alternatives” to coal, oil, and nuclear power for our energy needs”? While the tragedy of nuclear power rages on in Japan, the media and our politicians are avoiding the recent catastrophes from each of the major power sources. Three of the world’s chief sources of large-scale energy production — coal, oil and nuclear power — have all experienced eye-popping accidents in just the past year. The Upper Big Branch coal mine explosion in West Virginia, the Deepwater Horizon blowout and oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and the unfolding nuclear crisis in Japan have dramatized the dangers of conventional power generation at a time when the world has no workable alternatives able to operate at sufficient scale. (March 13, 2011) “U.S. Nuclear Industry Faces New Uncertainty” New York Times This dependency on coal, oil, and nuclear power, though widely held as gospel, it is merely an assumption—not a fact. There are other major workable alternatives to coal and oil: renewable energy from wind, solar, and wave power with battery backup and conservation thrown into the mix. more...
• 3/16/2011 - Why would anybody vote for a candidate who didn’t understand Climate Change? Our public officials, whether they accept the reality of Climate Change or not, will be held accountable for their actions and inactions on preventing the consequences of Climate Change. So, why would the public vote for those who, by their uninformed beliefs, put their future in jeopardy? This isn’t just a philosophical question; Climate Change is the most important issue of our day. Committee Republicans Unanimously Reject Measures Reaffirming Science Behind Global Warming WASHINGTON -- In a vote split cleanly along party lines, the Republican-led House Energy and Commerce Committee on Tuesday rejected measures reaffirming climate change as a scientific reality, with every Republican on the panel voting "nay," Roll Call's Jennifer Bendery first reported.
• 3/16/2011 - Good point for everyone to remember on the use of our state lands by the NYS DEC: "Wheelchairs are allowed anywhere pedestrians are allowed on State lands. "DEC Statement on Power Driven Mobility Devices - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation New Federal Rule on Power Driven Mobility Devices on Outdoor DEC Lands (March 16, 2011) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
• 3/15/2011 - On Transportation: Don’t forget Bike Week in Rochester is coming up in May and there will be several Rochester, NY area events—including a bicycle boulevard ride through the Upper Monroe Neighborhood and the Swillburg Neighborhood. There will also be a bicycle ride through the South Wedge Neighborhood to the downtown Public Market. There will be more and we’ll keep you posted. Meanwhile get the skinny on Bike Month. League of American Bicyclists * Bike Month "Bike Month 2011 May is National Bike Month The League of American Bicyclists is promoting Bike-to-Work Week 2011 from May 16-20 and Bike-to-Work Day on Friday, May 20. Need some ideas? Use the League's step by step guide on how to get started promoting your event. Help us Count Cyclists In this May, and every month! "
• 3/15/2011 - More evidence that Climate Change is affecting various ecologies: Was 2010 the Warmest Year in Ecologically Significant Habitats?‹ Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future "Many have now heard that 2010 was either the warmest year on record or tied with 2005 (New York Times). I don’t want to argue the case, because what is more relevant than the mean global temperature is how hot it got in ecologically sensitive habitats. In my earlier CNN OP Ed, I drew attention to the developing over-warming in the Caribbean this past fall. By the end of the event (early November), temperatures in the south eastern Caribbean from Tobago to Curacao were the warmest on record " (March 3, 2011) Cornell Center for a Sustainable Future - News
• 3/14/2011 -Will Japan’s nuclear power disaster mean more solar power in Rochester region? One has to wonder if the one-in-a-million disaster scenario occurring in Japan with their nuclear plants and the major earthquake will wake up area communities to the dangers of nuclear power. Second Explosion at Reactor as Technicians Try to Contain Damage - NYTimes.com TOKYO — A second explosion rocked a troubled nuclear power plant Monday, blowing the roof off a containment building but not harming the reactor inside, while cooling systems failed at a third reactor, Japanese officials said. (March 14, 2011) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia Though we here don’t have a major earthquake fault running through Rochester, we are not immune to the other environmental and health issues which are always a concern with nuclear power. Nuclear power, which to many people may seem like a real solution to our energy needs and curbing greenhouse gases, is not benign or cheap. Our media fails to focus on the real and present danger nuclear power presents. more...

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Events – Rochester Environmental Events Calendar – [The most complete listing of all environmental events around the Rochester, New York area.] If you don’t see your event, or know of a local environmental event, please send me the info: FrankRegan@RochesterEnvironment.com with (EV event) in the subject line.

• March 22nd, 2011 7pm Allen Hall Theatre, South Campus: Renewable Energy Resources in WNY UB Buildings: Allen Hall, Buffalo, NY
• 2011 UB Green Climate Talks Please join us this Spring as we continue the UB Green Climate Talks series, a dialogue on contemporary and local environmental issues. The Spring 2011 series will introduce the campus community to issues such as clean air in WNY, renewable energy, and creating an environmental movement in our community. For each event, we invite students, professors and community members to share their expertise on environmental issues in a moderated interview that is audio and video recorded. All of the Climate Talks begin at 7pm in the Allen Hall Theatre on the UB South Campus, across from Walgreens. The building is nearby the UB Stampede stops on the South Campus and the NFTA South Campus Station. A bicycle rack is located moments from the building entrance. Free parking is also available. Please join us… March 22nd, 2011 7pm Allen Hall Theatre, South Campus: Renewable Energy Resources in WNY Moderated by: Martin Casstevens, Director, Directed Energy Panel: Brian Smith, Citizens Campaign for the Environment (wind) Jim Walters, Solar Liberty (solar) Fred Harrington, Helios-NRG (algae fuel) Coming soon: 4/12/11: “Forward Movement: Defining a Strong Environmental Community in Buffalo and WNY”
• Sat 3/26/2011 - 1:00pm-4:00pm -
• CSA(Community Supported Agriculture) Fair hosted by NOFA-NY, Village Gate Square, Physikos Studio upstairs, 300 N. Goodman St.. Learn about CSA, meet local farmers and sign up for a weekly veggie-box. Bring kids. Activities for the whole family. Contact: Kristina at NOFA NY 271-1979 X505 https://www.nofany.org/
• 7 to 9 pm Wednesday, March 30 at VFW Post 6105, 550 Peck Road, Hilton.
• Workshop Helps Farmers, Operators Increase Energy Efficiency Grant support, renewable energy options available for agriculture community ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Farm owners and operators interested in increasing energy efficiency will have an opportunity to attend a free workshop sponsored by Monroe Community College’s Agriculture and Life Sciences Institute and the Town of Parma. The free workshop, Farm Energy Audits and Energy Options for Agricultural Buildings, will be held 7 to 9 pm Wednesday, March 30 at VFW Post 6105, 550 Peck Road, Hilton. Seating is limited. Contact Bob King, Ph.D. at rking@monroecc.edu or (585) 292-2065 to reserve seats.
• March 31 - April 2, 2011 | Taylor & Anabel Taylor Hall, Ithaca, New York
• Cornell Environmental Law Society 2011 Energy Conference Gas Drilling, Sustainability & Energy Policy: Searching for Common Ground Location: Cornell Law School, Myron Taylor & Anabel Taylor Hall, Ithaca, New York Dates: Schedule Description: The conference will explore the legal, scientific, and business perspectives on Shale Gas Development and hydraulic fracturing ("hydrofracking"). This issue has ignited a fierce battle over energy and the environment in New York State. Eight fast-paced and interactive panels will use natural gas drilling as a lens to explore national energy policy, the global energy market, and the integral role the law must play in creating energy security and ensuring a sustainable future. The conference brings together over 45 distinguished speakers from Cornell University and around the country working in law, science, business, and government from all sides of the energy debate. Learn more at 2011 Energy Conference

April 2011

• Tues, 4/5/2011 5:30pm - 8:30pm - The Williams Gallery at the First Unitarian Church of Rochester 220 Winton Road South, Rochester, New York 14620
• "Dear Friends of Christine, I wanted to let you know that much progress continues to be made in establishing a lasting memorial to Christine Sevilla. You may be aware that the Genesee Land Trust has named a beautiful wetland for Christine: the Christine Sevilla Wetland Preserve. This year we are planning to build a boardwalk trail, observation deck, and develop some interpretive signage. Meanwhile, I wanted to alert you to a special event. Christine's family has donated her stunning artwork to the Genesee Land Trust and Genesee Valley Audubon, with the intent that it be sold to raise funds for the memorial, and other environmental/educational efforts in Christine's memory. The time is getting near. I hope you can make it to see this one-time only exhibition of her work (yes - her artwork will be displayed, and sold all on Tuesday, April 5) , and perhaps you will find one of Christine's pieces to own not only as a work of art, but as a memory of Christine and her creative vision. Please mark your calendar - Tuesday, April 5. 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Unitarian Church - 220 Winton Rd. S. I am attaching a one-page flier. Please forward this email and flier to any friends or colleagues who might be interested. We are hoping for a good turnout. Hope to see you there. The website, www.christinesevilla.com, has additional information. "
• APRIL 8TH 2011 8:00 AM | where: THE LINKS AT ERIE VILLAGE EAST SYRACUSE, NY
• Seventh Annual SYMPOSIUM ON ENERGY in the 21st CENTURY REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT - CHOOSING THE RIGHT PATH | When APRIL 8TH 2011 8:00 AM | where: THE LINKS AT ERIE VILLAGE EAST SYRACUSE, NY | "The Annual Symposium on Energy in the 21st century brings together experts in the field of energy to present and discuss the future and possibilities of energy sustainability, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and partnerships. The Symposium provides a venue for diverse groups to join together in a bi-partisan multi-disciplinary conversation and learning experience. Attending are congressmen, mayors, town supervisors, presidents and deans of colleges, CEO's, professors, students, engineers, architects, city planners, representatives from the offices of elected official both on the federal, state and local levels, farmers, as well as interested citizens. Diverse groups of people, all who work in or have interest in energy, from the largest to the smallest of municipalities, come to share and learn from each other and from an outstanding group of speakers. "
• April 9th, 2011, 9am-noon at Monroe County Department of Parks
• Pick Up the Parks April 9th, 2011, 9am-noon at Monroe County Department of ParksJoin the Monroe County Department of Parks, Sunnking Electronics Recycling, and several local recreation and environmental groups in continuing the “Pick Up the Parks” event. This great parks stewardship event will expand from 4 to 6 parks in 2011; Black Creek, Ellison, Genesee Valley, Mendon Ponds, Ontario Beach, and Seneca Parks. View Flyer (from CEI: Center for Environmental Information)
• Saturday, April 9th from 12 - 5pm (Vendor set-up starts @10:30am) Where: Foodlink Distribution Center 138 Joseph Ave, Rochester NY 14605
• "The 2011 Upstate NY Permaculture Gathering " When: Saturday, April 9th from12 - 5pm (Vendor set-up starts @10:30am) Where: Foodlink Distribution Center 138 Joseph Ave, Rochester NY 14605 Why: To inspire & educate our communities about locally grown foods, sustainable shelters, and community interaction. “Permaculture knowledge is not a privilege, it is a necessity for the future.” Call for Speakers and/or Vendors This year’s Gathering is a regional event designed to foster networking, coordination, and learning of permaculture philosophies among all classes of community in Upstate New York. Permaculture is a whole-systems approach to community and landscape design. This provides regenerative agriculture techniques in order to meet human and animal needs for development projects that allow for more self sufficient living. The event will include a series of 4-5 individual workshops & keynote speakers. There will also be a trade-show style vendor track of businesses, organizations & non profit groups with missions relating to this event’s philosophy. Your RSVP is appreciated by Monday, February 21st as it will help with the planning & promotion. This mission will be accomplished in a professional and ‑financially responsible manner that is in the best interest of all participants. All vendors will be provided with at least 6’x6’ space; $15 for businesses and free for non-profit organizations.
• Sunday, April 9, 2011 - 9AM -3PM | Montezuma Refuge, the Montezuma Audubon Center (MAC
• The Cayuga Lake Watershed Network has organized, along with partners at the Montezuma Refuge, the Montezuma Audubon Center (MAC), and the DEC an exciting Spring Symposium "Our Wetlands: A Community Treasure" on Saturday April 9 at the Montezuma Audubon Center. We gather at 9am for coffee (courtesy of Friends of Montezuma), registration, and to order lunch (unless you want to brown-bag) and welcomes and an introduction occur at 9:30am. Talks begin at 10am - featuring Howard Goebel (NYS Canal Corp) on Water level management -water levels impact the wetlands; Sarah Fleming (Ducks Unlimited) who will describe the NY conservation program with reference to Montezuma; a refreshment break courtesy of the Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization; Tony Eallonardo (SUNY ESF) who will describe the Nature Conservancy's Inland Salt Marsh; Zack Odell (The Nature Conservancy) who will discuss Land Protection. These talks will be followed by a panel discussion by the speakers, and perhaps others. At 1:10pm we break for lunch, and then Frank Moses, Director of the MAC will conduct a walking tour of the MAC grounds. A poster advertising the event can be found by clicking on the Symposium title under the events calendar at http://www.cayugalake.org/news/events.php
• Sunday April 10, 2011 2-4 PM Univ. of Rochester Interfaith Chapel, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
• Reserve Your Seat - Dave Jacke, Edible Forest Gardens Author, to speak at U of R April 10th Peace and Permaculture: Food Forestry for Ecological and Cultural Regeneration presented by Dave Jacke, Edible Forest Gardens Author Sunday April 10, 2011 2-4 PM Univ. of Rochester Interfaith Chapel Co-Sponsored by: MK Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, and Barefoot Edible Landscape & Permaculture What can the forest teach us about ecological food production? About the practice of nonviolence? About how to redesign our culture so that we humans heal our ecosystems and communities, rather than destroying them? Healthy forests maintain, fertilize, and renew themselves, naturally. When we understand how these amazing properties emerge from forest ecosystem structure and function, we can apply that knowledge to the design of “food forests” that mimic natural forests while growing food, fuel, fiber, fodder, fertilizers, farmaceuticals, and fun! With forest gardens as our teachers, we can also use the same principles to design human social systems that allow us each to fully be ourselves while interconnecting in functional ways. This can create a culture of free human beings that builds community health and well-being without force or violence. This talk by Edible Forest Gardens author Dave Jacke introduces the vision of forest gardening with some scientific background, a few living examples, and a sampling of some useful perennial edibles you can use in your own garden. It also summarizes how the ecology of forests can guide the practical application of nonviolence in regenerating our culture. Suggested minimum donation $10; no one turned away for lack of funds.
• April 13, 2011 New York State Pollution Prevention Institute Rochester Institute of Technology 9:15 AM -3:45 PM Admission is free
• The Pace Energy and Climate Center, in collaboration with Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) and Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), is hosting two free conferences to explore issues related to the development of Great Lakes wind energy in New York State. Each conference will include four panel presentations/discussions featuring speakers from industry, government, and various stakeholder groups. Registration is not open at this time, but please look for an email containing a more detailed agenda and registration information in the near future. We encourage anyone interested in Great Lakes wind energy to attend - students, government officials, local stakeholders, wind developers, etc. - so please feel free to circulate. Hope to see you there! Sincerely, Anne Marie Hirschberger Climate Change Law and Policy Advisor Pace Energy & Climate Center ahirschberger2@law.pace.edu 914 422-4126
• Apr 15 2011 | Braddock Bay Park 199 East Manitou Rd. - Greece, NY
• Bird of Prey Days 2011 Apr 15 2011 - 00:00 AM Mark you calendars and plan to attend our 23rd annual BOP Days event! BBRR will be celebrating it's 25th anniversary! You won't want to miss it! Braddock Bay Raptor Research
• Friday, April 15. 7AM - 4PM. Green Grand Prix Moving to Legendary Watkins Glen International in 2011 WATKINS GLEN, NY
• Green Transportation event coming up. Welcome To The Official Green Grand Prix Web Site 7AM - 4PM. Green Grand Prix Moving to Legendary Watkins Glen International in 2011 WATKINS GLEN, NY – Drivers of alternate-fueled vehicles, hybrids, and traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles will have two unique opportunities to test their mettle at the 2011 Green Grand Prix on Friday, April 15. Organizers are cranking up the challenges and excitement this year by taking the Green Grand Prix to the famed road course of Watkins Glen International.
• Thursday, April 21, 6PM- 9Pm | First Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Road North
• Sierra Club’s 13th Annual Environmental Forum: “Sustainable Production: Rochester’s Cutting Edge” 6pm Doors open -- network with and learn from representatives of 30+ environmental organizations -- sustainably produced food and drink available for purchase from local vendors 7pm Program begins 9pm Adjourn Please join us for a conversation with two nationally recognized leaders who are driving innovative sustainable production methods, right here at home in Rochester: Dr. Nabil Nasr, RIT’s Assistant Provost and Director of the Golisano Institute for Sustainability Catherine Reeves, Director, Sustainable Operations at Xerox Join us for the premier Earth Day event of the year!
• April 24, 2010 from 10 am to 2 pm in Area #4, Shelter 5. at Hamline Beach State Park, Hamlin, NY
• Celebrate Earth Day at Hamlin Beach State Park Mark your calendars! The 3rd annual Earth Day event at Hamlin Beach State Park will be held on April 24, 2010 from 10 am to 2 pm in Area #4, Shelter 5. This collaborative effort between the Hamlin Conservation Board, Hamlin Beach State Park, and the Environmental Sciences Department at SUNY Brockport will feature many activities including environmental information booths and presentations, walking tours, and our popular tree seedling give-away. With free refreshments and free admission into the Hamlin Beach State Park, this is a fun and educational family event you won’t want to miss.
• April 27, 2011, 9 :00am -4:00pm | Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside 120 East Main Street , Rochester NY 14604, United States
• Save the date: Greater Rochester Active Transportation Symposium(Event) Active Transportation Symposium Save the date: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 for a unique opportunity to change Rochester’s transportation. Much has still to be worked out, but this event will be held in Rochester, NY. Seeking: Organizations and institutional leaders in government, education, community organizations and the business community and individual activists. For: a full day event with National and local experts. To: make Greater Rochester a preeminent Active Transportation region. Walking and wheeling can improve health and the bottom line for businesses and the community. Brought to you by: Rochester Cycling Alliance, Genesee Transportation Council, NYS Dept. of Transportation, Monroe County and the City of Rochester. Continuing Education Credits being Pursued. For more information contact Richard DeSarra at rdscomm@rochester.rr.com or Rochelle Bell at rbell@monroecounty.gov .
• Saturday, April 30, 2011 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cornell Cooperative Extension 249 Highland Ave, Rochester 14620
• Earth Day Expo Free Event Saturday, April 30, 2011 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cornell Cooperative Extension 249 Highland Ave, Rochester 14620 Families, come learn how to do your part for the environment through unique, hands-on activities. Booth displays featuring: Environmental sustainability, Energy efficiency, Home and community recycling, Worm composting, Lead hazards, Green energy, City & suburban green neighborhoods, Permaculture, Home Gardening, Healthy, fun activities for kids plus zoo animals on-site! View Flyer --from CEI: Center for Environmental Information
• Saturday, April 30, 2011 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dansville Middle School Dansville, NY
• 2011 Regional Preservation Conference - Repair, Rehabilitate, Reuse Strategies for Sustaining Buildings & Communities The Landmark Society of Western New York’s 25th Annual Preservation Conference Saturday, April 30, 2011 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dansville Middle School Dansville, NY REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! The Landmark Society’s Annual Preservation Conference is the only annual conference in central/western New York that focuses on historic buildings, sites and landscapes.
• Saturday, April 30th, 2011 at the Walden Galleria from 10am to 6pm | Buffalo, NY
• 2011 Buffalo Niagara Green Expo Date Announced - GrowWNY Saturday, April 30th, 2011 at the Walden Galleria Mall With great enthusiasm and excitement we announce that the 3rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Green Expo will take place Saturday, April 30th, 2011 at the Walden Galleria from 10am to 6pm. Come to the 3rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Green Expo, and learn from over 100 exhibitors and presenters how to GO GREEN in your Home, Body, Garden, Business, Career and Community! Gain invaluable insight into topics such as sustainable energy, weatherization and energy efficiency, green landscaping and gardening, holistic health, eco-friendly cleaning, composting, water purification and so much more! This event also promotes networking where new business-to-business relationships can develop and companies with employment opportunities can connect with people looking to get into the green job sector. Bring your resume and learn about green careers! Education and fun come together in the Kid’s Zone, where children can take part in exciting, environmentally-themed activities!

May 2011

• Fri, 05/06/2011 - Sat, 05/07/2011 Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ages: All Ages Family Price: Free with Zoo admission. Venue: Seneca Park Zoo
• Our Fragile World Environmental Fair | Kids Out and About.com (Rochester)The Seneca Park Zoo has a goal to engage, inspire and empower citizens to act on behalf of wildlife, nature and our environment. Each year, this event features 30 or more local environmentally-conscious businesses, nature organizations and government agencies that are working to improve the health of our local environment. We hope you will join us and learn how to make our world a healthier place for wildlife, your children and generations to come. Our event in 2010 was held on April 30 and May 1. Nearly 1,000 students participated in the Zoo's interactive Scavenger Hunt held on Friday, April 30. There were 40 booths, 33 outside vendors and seven Docent stations for the students to check out along the way.
• Sat 5/14/2011 - Give Your Stuff Away Day - Here's how to get your community involved... http://giveyourstuffaway.com/
• Give Your Stuff Away Day May 14, 2011 The World's Biggest Recycling / Giveaway Event Free stuff will be available in neighborhoods all over on May 14, 2011. It’s an event Mike Morone is hoping to establish annually. This event could help millions, while shrinking landfills, reducing clutter, lowering costs, and boosting the economy. Don’t we all own items we don’t use or want any more? Why do we keep it all? In one weekend, let’s take this stuff and give it away, instantly creating the world’s biggest recycling / giveaway event! On May 14th, bring your stuff to the curb for others. Then go and get some new stuff! http://facebook.com/giveyourstuffaway

September 2011

• September 17-18, 2011 - High Falls, Downtown, Rochester, NY
• Greentopia Festival The Greentopia Festival is Rochester’s and the Finger Lakes celebration of the green movement sweeping around the globe. The two-day, interactive fest in historic High Falls will reveal what the region is doing to help the environment – and envision a greener Rochester of the future. Think of Greentopia as a walk-through of a totally sustainable Rochester. We’ve already begun this walk by exploring healthier ways of living, as individuals and as a community. In social, economic and environmental ways, we’ve made the decision to go green.

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Action – Take Action - Often, I receive request to pass on alerts, petitions, Public Comments on local developments, and environmental items needing action by the Rochester Community and around the world. I’ll keep Actions posted until their due date.

• Due Date: now
• ACTION: Help Catch Juvenile Eels for Research! With the arrival of spring, the NYSDEC Estuary Program and Research Reserve are looking for volunteers to help out with American eel monitoring on Hudson River streams. Volunteers will be trained on how to check nets that capture two-inch juvenile eels that migrated here from their birthplace in the Atlantic Ocean. Teams will be checking nets in Yonkers, Oscawana, West Haverstraw, Cold Spring, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, Hyde Park, West Park, Annandale, and Ravena/New Baltimore. In 2010, volunteers caught and released over 11,000 juvenile eels, and this information contributes to an eel conservation project along the entire east coast. If interested in participating, please contact Sarah Mount at (845) 889-4745 (x108), or send an email (sjmount@gw.dec.state.ny.us). Visit the American Eel Research webpage for more details and information.
• ACTION: Due Date: now
• Major action on Climate Change by Bill McKibben and 350.org. You can take part and act locally. Recruiting Local Businesses | The U.S. Chamber Doesn't Speak For Me "Here’s the plan: If we can get thousands of small businesses across the country to declare that “The US Chamber Doesn’t Speak for me,” we can get local and state chambers of commerce to do the same. By compiling thousands of declarations, we’ll build a critical mass representing the true voice of business, and fight back against the millions of dollars of money pollution that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is pumping into Washington DC. " - from 350.org
• DATE: Wednesday, March 16, 2011 TIME: 2:00 - 3:00 P.M., PDT
• 03/10/2011: EPA seeks public input on presidential order to review federal regulations (Seattle - Mar. 10, 2011) — On Wednesday, March 16 in Seattle, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will host a public webinar for citizens to learn more about and provide input on EPA’s retrospective review of regulations. The webinar is part of the agency’s response to President Obama’s January 18, 2011 Executive Order 13563, “Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review.” DATE: Wednesday, March 16, 2011 TIME: 2:00 - 3:00 P.M., PDT REGISTER: Help Improve EPA's Regulations! Space on the webinar is limited. Please register online in advance. You can listen via your computer speakers, or you can dial in on the phone. To join by phone, dial: Toll: +1 (773) 945-1011 Then Enter Access Code: 304-852-943 (March 9, 2011) US Environmental Protection Agency [more on Action in our area]
• ACTION: Due Date: March 22, 2011
• Speak out! Join us for Park Advocacy Day March 22 Are you looking for a way to show your support for state parks and historic sites? Join Parks & Trails New York, the Alliance for NYS Parks and park supporters from throughout the Empire State at our 5th annual Park Advocacy Day on Tuesday, March 22 in Albany. This is a great opportunity to advocate for the protection and funding of New York's magnificent but struggling state park system. Your participation will help bring home the importance to lawmakers of keeping ALL New York state parks open, well-maintained, and welcoming. In addition to legislative visits, this year the joint Senate and Assembly parks committees will address the group and listen to advocates' concerns. Therefore, the participation of Friends groups and other park advocates is particularly important. Register now.
• Action Due March 30, 2011
• DEC Announces 2011 Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale Free Seedlings available to New York Schools The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) Saratoga Tree Nursery has begun taking orders for its annual sale of tree and shrub seedlings. Schools across New York can also now receive free seedlings for spring planting through the DEC School Seedling Program, which will provide 50 tree seedlings or a mixed packet of 30 wildlife shrubs to any public or private school that would like to participate. The Saratoga Tree Nursery produces more than 50 species of trees and shrubs for planting on public and private land. The objective of the program is to provide low-cost, native planting materials from known New York sources to encourage landowners to enhance the state's environment for future generations. (January 7, 2010) DEC Announces 2011 Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
• ACTION: Due Date: April 15, 2011
• Take Action by April 15th, 2011 by making public comment to the NYS DEC as to when emergency pesticide applications are determined in schools. Pest Management for Schools, Day Care Centers and Parents - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Draft Policy on Pesticide Emergency Determinations for Schools and Day Care Centers A NYSDEC Draft Policy (PDF, 74KB) is available for review entitled "Determinations Regarding Emergency Pesticide Applications at Schools and Day Care Centers and Inquiries on Related Pesticide Prohibition." Under the State Education Law and Social Services Law, as amended by Chapter 85 of the Laws of 2010, no school or day care center may apply pesticides on playgrounds, turf, and athletic or playing fields, except that an emergency application may be made, as determined by entities identified in the law, including DEC. The Draft Policy contains the procedures DEC staff would use when making such emergency determinations. It also identifies the types of emergency pesticide application requests to be considered by DEC. The draft policy includes forms for use by non-public schools and day care centers when requesting a determination from the DEC and forms for use by DEC when making a determination. (Note: Under the State Education Law, public schools seek emergency determinations from their school boards. For information, contact the school board or the State Education Department, Office of Facilities Planning at 518-474-3906.) The public comment period on the Draft Policy ends April 15, 2011. Public notice of the Draft Policy, published in the March 16, 2011 Environmental Notice Bulletin, includes the address to which comments may be submitted. (March 15, 2011) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
• ACTION: Due Date: March 24, 2011
• Think about downtown parking and how to get from here to there in our city and then make comment. A city, our city, can be a more environmentally friendly place and healthier when the public joins in and helps city officials and designers accommodate our transportation system to people, not the other way around: Attend: "Upcoming meetings Join us on March 24, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. for a public meeting in the Kate Gleason Auditorium at the Central Library"City of Rochester | Center City Circulator Feasibility Study "The City has partnered with C&S Companies to analyze and make recommendations to enhance commuting, circulation, and parking in Downtown Rochester. Downtown's future is bright due to various developments being planned, proposed, or in progress. With the addition of workers from companies like ESL, Paetec and other Midtown occupants, Nothnagle, the Monroe County Crime Lab, and the Eastman Theater expansion, it is a perfect time to reevaluate the downtown parking situation and the possible opportunities for improving the movement of people in the downtown area. Public Participation Opportunities Upcoming meetings Join us on March 24, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. for a public meeting in the Kate Gleason Auditorium at the Central Library. Find out more. " --from City of Rochester
• ACTION: Due Date April 22, 2011
• AMERICA’S GREAT OUTDOORS: Salazar Announces Draft Vision for Future of Refuge System WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced a draft vision plan to guide the growth and management of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The draft document, developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Wildlife Refuge Association, articulates a 10-year vision for the Refuge System. The vision document, entitled Conserving the Future: Wildlife Refuges and the Next Generation, offers nearly 100 draft recommendations to protect and improve the world’s premier system of public lands and water set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife and plants for the continuing benefit of the American people. Starting today, the draft document will be available for public comment until Earth Day, April 22, 2011.
• ACTION: Due Date: May 20, 2011
• DEC Accepting Applications for Environmental Excellence Awards Annual Competition Will Recognize Innovative and Sustainable Practices Applications are now being accepted for the 2011 Environmental Excellence Awards program, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Joe Martens announced today. The program recognizes businesses, governments, not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals in New York State that are achieving environmental excellence through innovative and environmentally sustainable practices or partnerships Applications for the awards must be post marked no later than Friday, May 20, 2011. Information about theaward program, the application materials and information on past award winners is available on the DEC website or by writing to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Pollution Prevention Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, New York 12233-1750; by phone to DEC's Pollution Prevention Unit at (518) 402-9469; or by email to eeawards@gw.dec.state.ny.us.
• Action: Due Date - Now
• Join a new local Hydrofracturing Action Alert email list by contacting Anna Sears asears@rochester.rr.com. Also the local Sierra Club's Global Warming & Energy Committee has been addressing the topic of Hydrofracturing. They meet the 2nd Monday evening of the month. Contact bteheger@juno.com for more info. Also - you may wish to review this coalition letter Coalition Letter to Governor Cuomo Regarding Executive Order No. 41: Requiring Further Environmental Review of High-Volume Hydraulic Fracturing Combined With Horizontal Drilling | Toxics Targeting and Governor Cuomo issued a "continuation" of Executive Order No. 41 on his first day in office, as he earlier signaled he would. See: No. 2 REVIEW, CONTINUATION AND EXPIRATION OF PRIOR EXECUTIVE ORDERS | Governor
• ACTION: Due Date: Until the money runs out.
• There is still time to save energy on this NYSERDA program until the money for the rebates run out: New York's Great Appliance Swap Out "The New York State Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program To qualify, your eligible appliance(s) must be purchased between February 12th, 2010 and the date available funding runs out. Welcome to "New York’s Great Appliance Swap Out" website which will provide all the information you need in order to participate. This rebate program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), is available to residential consumers replacing existing appliances of the same type with new ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances or High Efficiency ENERGY STAR appliances. A larger rebate will be granted to consumers who recycle their discarded appliances. Appliance Rebate Funds Still Available!!! Due to a large number of rebate reservations that were never claimed, there are still funds available under New York’s Great Appliance Swap Out! Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds remain available. " --a program funded by ARRA and administered by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
• ACTION: Due Date - Now
• Sierra Club: Help Ban Toxics from Children's Toy Jewelry!Help Ban Toxics from Children's Toy Jewelry! After Congress acted, the Consumer Product Safety Commission finally took action to protect children from lead in children's products. Now another dangerous toxin, cadmium, is being found in children’s toy jewelry. Please take a moment today and tell the Commission to protect our families from cadmium in children's toys! --from Sierra Club Home Page: Explore, Enjoy and Protect the Planet

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Award – Environmental Site of the Month Award – [On the last Sunday of each month, we present an environmental award for the Rochester-area environmental web site or blog that best promotes the need to protect and offers solutions for our area's environmental issues.]