Donors have pledged $216 million for a fund to protect the Congo Basin forests, an area in central Africa consisting of 26 percent of the world’s remaining tropical forests, second only to the Amazon, the African Development Bank said on Wednesday. (All Africa.com)
Donors Pledge $216M to Protect African Rainforests
5 Silver Linings of High Gas Prices
We all want to scream about the miseries of high gas prices… But, are there any “silver linings” in which we can find solace? In fact, there are five silver linings brightening the black clouds of high oil prices. Instead of feeling totally stressed at the pump, learn about the ways that life is already improving thanks to $138-per-barrel oil.
Pets Can Cut Your Heart Risk in Half, Aid in Recovery
A new study that followed 4,500 adults between the ages of 30 and 75 years showed that having a cat for a pet can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by just under 50 percent. (Full story at Natural News) Read heartwarming news stories in our PETS section.
Encouraging Results for Renewable Jet Fuel Tests
A company called Sustainable Power says it has been working with “an undisclosed airline” to test a blend of petroleum-based jet fuel and bio-fuel that is made from a renewable resource like algae. News from CheapFlights.com says other airline industries and the government are pushing for such a fuel. Just imagine, a cheaper airline ticket thanks to pond scum…
Aspiring to a Lengthy Cease-Fire With Hamas in Gaza
“The welcome cease-fire that is supposed to come into effect today can succeed, and it is necessary to give it a real chance instead of looking for disadvantages… The aim is to create an atmosphere of restraint, calm and routine in Sderot and the Gaza Strip. Quiet has a dynamic of its own, and if that is what serves the interests of both sides it can last for years.” (A Haaretz Editorial)
50 New Species Discovered Each Day in 2006
16,969 species new to science were discovered and described in 2006 — an average of nearly 50 species per day — reports the International Institute for Species Exploration in partnership with the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature.
Salamander Crossing Provides Squish-Free Passage
“Four miniature tunnels have been built south of Calgary to save hundreds of migrating salamanders from being squashed to death by traffic. The special underpasses opened this week — a first for Canada’s national parks — to help long-toed salamanders cross a busy roadway as they migrate to and from Linnet Lake.” (Full story on CBC News )
My First TV Appearance! This Thursday AM
I pitched a good news story to a producer at CN8’s Your Morning show, and he loved it. This Thursday morning I will be featured in an interview segment from the studio in Washington, DC talking to more than 9 million viewers from Maine to Virginia. What’s the topic? The 5 Silver Linings of High Gas Prices! I think the anchors (right) are in Philly, so I hope the long-distance conversation flows smoothly… It’s starts at 6:10 AM. if you are in the Comcast viewing area, you might want to check us out.
I also have radio interviews tomorrow, Wednesday morning on WSJS, in the Winston/Salem, Greensboro triad at 9:35 with JR Snider, and later, with Ron Ross in Bloomington, IL (WJBC) at 11:10.
Next Monday you can catch me on KWNA in Nevada at 10:10 AM with Rod Williams.
All these radio hosts want to hear about the 5 Silver Linings of High Gas Prices. (I guess I should add a story to the site with these 5 optimistic takes on oil prices…
Where Can I Buy an Electric Car in America?
The transition has begun that will wean our society from gas powered cars to electric. As we strive to improve the environment and grapple with rising fuel costs, green electric cars are now on the minds of every auto executive and commuter. While there are “green ratings” for hybrid cars, which use a combination of gas and battery power, the only truly green vehicle that will ease your gas pump pain is one that uses no gas and features zero-emissions, like the electric truck by Phoenix Motors and the Hydrogen-powered Honda Clarity (right). If you are fortunate enough to be in a region where electric cars are sold, you can invest in transportation that is both kind to your wallet and a blessing to the environment. Expect more arrivals nationwide within 2 years.
Inflation? Some Items That Actually Cost Less
Inflation may be climbing faster than the humidity level, but there are still some things that actually cost less than they did a year ago. Amid all the headlines about soaring energy and food prices, many consumers may not notice that they’re getting a break on some items they buy.
(Read the CNBC report that names the lower priced items, like electronics, clothes, toys hotel rooms and theme parks)
Johnny Depp Teaches a 12-Yr Old the Art of Promise Keeping
Twelve-year-old Jack Taylor asked for Johnny Depp’s hat in April when they met in Wisconsin during the filming of the upcoming John Dillinger movie “Public Enemies.” Depp said, “When I’m done with it, it’s all yours.”
Last week, Depp followed through and sent him the vintage fedora.
(Read the touching story on this ShowBiz website)
What Businesses are Faring Well in this Economy?
Some businesses are doing well despite the unsure economy, helping families find a cheap thrill, find drivers a less-painful commute and helping the unemployed improve their stock. The LA Times lists the services and shops that are thriving, including used auto parts, bike shops, recycling centers and community colleges
France Cancels $20 Million in Debt for Conservation in Madagascar
Madagascar and France on Wednesday signed an agreement allocating 20 million dollars (13 million euros) to preserve Madagascar’s rich biodiversity. “This initiative is an excellent example of innovative financing for sustainable development,” said the World Wildlife Fund, which will manage the fund.
Saudi King Moves to Tackle ‘Abnormally High’ Oil Prices
Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah will convene a meeting next week of the world’s major oil producers to discuss ways of dealing with soaring fuel prices. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said King Abdullah “acknowledged that the current oil price is abnormally high, due to speculative factors, and he is willing to do what he can to manage the price of oil to the adequate level.” Ban met yesterday with the Saudi monarch and other officials.
One Man’s Mission to Rid India of its “Untouchable” Job
One man has built 1.2 million affordable hygienic toilets throughout India and helped 60,000 people who were manual scavengers of human waste — the “untouchable” of society — to move into other jobs. (Christian Science Monitor)
Dell Recycles 100 Million Pounds of Equipment in 2007
Dell last week marked the one-year anniversary of its commitment to be the “greenest technology company on the planet” by reporting the company’s largest single-year recycling volume — 102 million pounds of IT equipment from customers during 2007, a 20 percent increase over 2006.
Amazing Bionic Hand Looks Real, Functions Naturally (Video)
So far 279 of the new bionic hands developed in Britain have helped amputees to regain the use of sensing hands including a range of natural abilities. The recipient in this video is an amazing subject in himself, having lost both arms and legs to disease, but not his natural warmth and humor. Hear his secret to maintaining his good nature. (BBC video)
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China, Taiwan Sign Historic Deal on Flights During First Direct Talks in Decade
Further signs of warming between China and Taiwan developed with an historic agreement on Friday to open official offices, establish direct regular flights between the two sides, and allowing more mainlanders to visit the islandthe first time in decades.
Pastors for Peace Defy US Ban, Bring Bicycles, Friendship to Cuba
For 18 years, Pastors for Peace has led a caravan to Cuba bringing tons of humanitarian aid and friendship despite the US blockade on goods to Cuba and ban on Americans’ travel there. This year the caravan’s cargo includes hundreds of donated bicycles collected by volunteers: full-sized bicycles, not as abundant in Cuba, can serve as primary transportation for so many in need on the island.
The July Caravan to Cuba also features a Hiphop Without Borders Exchange, a cultural celebration featuring some of the world’s finest hiphop, in workshops and performances with Cuban musicians.
Read in the Reformer.com about one local group who collected bicycles to help the Cuban people, and began their trek to Havana from Vermont.
Visit the Pastors for Peace website here, or check out this short documentary (8 minutes) created by Canadians who joined the Caravan to Cuba in 2006 describing every aspect of the humanitarian journey. Good job, all!
First Arab State to Restore Diplomatic Relations With Iraq
The United Arab Emirates became the first Gulf state to name an ambassador to Iraq — a move that is hoped will encourage other Arab states to follow. Restoring full diplomatic ties is an important step because many of Iraq’s neighbors are predominantly Sunni Muslims, and they’ve been slow to warm to the Shiite-led government of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.
