I realize there are a lot of pros and cons to nuclear energy... and since science was never a favorite subject of mine, I won't pretend to understand all of it. My resistance comes from my belief that nuclear power is unsafe, I don't trust the "government" to be honest with us about the long-term affects, and I don't believe we have developed a safe way to deal with waste. I will NEVER support a "solution" that will impact my grandchildren (who aren't born yet).
That being said, I found this very interesting and important for us to know:
Nuclear Power and France: The Most Complex and Unsolved Radioactive Waste Problem in the World
France gets nearly 80% of its electricity from its 58 reactors.
However, such a heavy reliance on nuclear power brings with it many major, unsolved problems, most especially that of radioactive waste. In fact, the French nuclear power program has resulted in the most complex nuclear waste problem in the world and includes an accumulated "pile of plutonium" with no safe disposal option of more than 80 metric tons sitting in tens of thousands of vulnerable containers.
France reprocesses domestic and foreign reactor waste - chemically separating the plutonium from the unfissioned uranium. Only about one percent of this mass is plutonium and only a small fraction of this is "recyled" as reactor fuel in "MOX" reactors. Operating MOX reactors in France - that use a blend of plutonium and uranium oxide fuel - comprise only 16of the fleet and all the waste these reactors generated has to be transported and stored. It is not reprocessed.
Reprocessing itself results in large quantities of liquid wastes that are discharged into the English Channel. This has resulted in radioactive contamination of the seas as far as the Arctic Circle and in leukemia clusters around the French reprocessing plant (La Hague.) Aerial discharges are also highly radioactive - thousands of times higher than natural background radiation.
Read our fact sheet on Nuclear Power in France: Setting the Record Straight to learn more about the French nuclear mess.
And read The Cogema File to better understand the culture of cover-ups and contamination that has marked the corporate nuclear history of France.
Showing posts with label Energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Energy. Show all posts
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Friday, February 08, 2008
Rep. Jaquet: Legislative Report Week 5
What a hectic week. Friday was the last day to get bills submitted to afternoon committees. Combine that with the County Winter Conference which featured a speech from Speaker Newt Gingrich, a trip home to vote in the caucus, a presentation to the credit union association, a luncheon with the FFA students and a phone that was drowned by a leaky water bottle and now I’m hoping the roads are open to Ketchum to make it home this weekend.
I’ve had some ups and downs with legislation:
The counties approved, in concept, large generation facility siting legislation. The legislation applies only to merchant plants and creates the opportunity for informed decision making at the local level. This next week I’ll be presenting the concept/draft to the cooperative and municipal utilities that are exempt as are the investor owned utilities.
An attempt at introducing a bill to require renewal portfolio standards at 25% by 2025 will not get a hearing this year.
Affordable workforce home legislation has been dropped off with the House Revenue and Taxation Committee for introduction in the near future. The bills include adding affordable workforce housing as an eligible use for development impact fees, requiring developers to ensure the development of workforce housing or pay a fee in lieu of development, a voter approved proposed tax levy to home owners whose home is valued at $1 million plus and who don’t qualify for the homeowners exemption, and an expansion of county local option sales tax to include affordable workforce housing.
The residential sales price disclosure legislation that was drafted and introduced last year was re-introduced this week in the senate. The hearing should be within a week. A second piece of legislation brought by the Idaho Association of Realtors also addresses this situation in a different way. I would appreciate your comments on both of these. You can find them at www.legislature.idaho.gov, under the Legislation link. The bill numbers are SB1400 and SB1401.
Senator Langhorst re-introduced last year’s legislation to abolish the one mile restriction on who may testify in confined animal feeding operations public hearings. The goal is to get the bill through the House this year. I also have drafted a bill that would provide for mediation between cities and/or counties who have concerns about decisions that cross boundaries.
The grocery tax credit was defeated in committee this week. We’re hoping that a bipartisan solution to decreasing the sales tax on food at the cash register will come forth. Legislators are also working on a new credit bill.
A bill to allow highway districts to increase their levies with a vote of the people is before the House Revenue and Taxation committee. Revenues were frozen many years ago at an artificially low rate and districts are having a hard time keeping up with inflationary costs. The Emergency Communications Commission has asked for a 25 cent increase per month on phones to a maximum of $1.25 to provide grant funding for rural communities who don’t have the population to support the Enhanced 911 systems as well as the ongoing maintenance costs of those systems.
Also introduced for hearing is the Ranch, Farm and Forest Protection Act which would give a tax credit to owners of agricultural and forest land who voluntarily agree not to develop lands important to fish and wildlife. I am supporting all of these bills.
The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) are scheduled to finish up state agency budget hearings on Wednesday, February 13. Budget setting will start on Monday, February 18 and should finish around March 7. Revenues have begun to slide due to the national recession (most now say we are in a recession!) and we’re anticipating some tough decision making.
Thank you for keeping in touch with me. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.
Email: wjaquet@house.idaho.gov or Phone: 1/800/626-0471
I’ve had some ups and downs with legislation:
The counties approved, in concept, large generation facility siting legislation. The legislation applies only to merchant plants and creates the opportunity for informed decision making at the local level. This next week I’ll be presenting the concept/draft to the cooperative and municipal utilities that are exempt as are the investor owned utilities.
An attempt at introducing a bill to require renewal portfolio standards at 25% by 2025 will not get a hearing this year.
Affordable workforce home legislation has been dropped off with the House Revenue and Taxation Committee for introduction in the near future. The bills include adding affordable workforce housing as an eligible use for development impact fees, requiring developers to ensure the development of workforce housing or pay a fee in lieu of development, a voter approved proposed tax levy to home owners whose home is valued at $1 million plus and who don’t qualify for the homeowners exemption, and an expansion of county local option sales tax to include affordable workforce housing.
The residential sales price disclosure legislation that was drafted and introduced last year was re-introduced this week in the senate. The hearing should be within a week. A second piece of legislation brought by the Idaho Association of Realtors also addresses this situation in a different way. I would appreciate your comments on both of these. You can find them at www.legislature.idaho.gov, under the Legislation link. The bill numbers are SB1400 and SB1401.
Senator Langhorst re-introduced last year’s legislation to abolish the one mile restriction on who may testify in confined animal feeding operations public hearings. The goal is to get the bill through the House this year. I also have drafted a bill that would provide for mediation between cities and/or counties who have concerns about decisions that cross boundaries.
The grocery tax credit was defeated in committee this week. We’re hoping that a bipartisan solution to decreasing the sales tax on food at the cash register will come forth. Legislators are also working on a new credit bill.
A bill to allow highway districts to increase their levies with a vote of the people is before the House Revenue and Taxation committee. Revenues were frozen many years ago at an artificially low rate and districts are having a hard time keeping up with inflationary costs. The Emergency Communications Commission has asked for a 25 cent increase per month on phones to a maximum of $1.25 to provide grant funding for rural communities who don’t have the population to support the Enhanced 911 systems as well as the ongoing maintenance costs of those systems.
Also introduced for hearing is the Ranch, Farm and Forest Protection Act which would give a tax credit to owners of agricultural and forest land who voluntarily agree not to develop lands important to fish and wildlife. I am supporting all of these bills.
The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) are scheduled to finish up state agency budget hearings on Wednesday, February 13. Budget setting will start on Monday, February 18 and should finish around March 7. Revenues have begun to slide due to the national recession (most now say we are in a recession!) and we’re anticipating some tough decision making.
Thank you for keeping in touch with me. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.
Email: wjaquet@house.idaho.gov or Phone: 1/800/626-0471
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Nuclear siting initiative will protect Idaho's way of life
Published in Times-News on Tuesday, January 29, 2008
By Diana Obenauer
I was born and raised in Jerome, Idaho, a wonderful, neighborly and special place to live. My roots go deep in my love for our wonderful Magic Valley.Military service and nursing education taught me how to preserve our fighting strength and care for all people in need. I am proud to have served in the Gulf War, and I am proud to serve Jerome County as a county commissioner.
It is important to learn from the past, as we prepare for Idaho's future.When I returned to Jerome from military service, I found changes I had not expected. I do not oppose growth, but it is important to live within our limits. Few people wanted to look at any limits, or at growth that was diversified. Idaho's water has to be used for our agricultural base and our people. It defines our limits.
I discovered neighbors had sold property to Sempra coal company and county permits were already approved. These plants spew mercury, affecting our children and our water. At first, we seemed defenseless, however, miraculously widespread citizen action from all over Magic Valley including the Idaho Dairy Association achieved a legislative moratorium on coal plants, overruling the ill-conceived local decision of county commissioners.
No nuclear power plant is totally "safe." The Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission admit continual threats from disgruntled employees, lax security, and terrorist threats from both physical and computer intruders are today's reality.
Mike Sparks, director of the DOE Office of Technology, admits, "The adversary has full use of the technology in advance to being made. And if we stand still and don't take the initiative to stay a step ahead on the technology, I think we're setting ourselves up for a disaster sometime down in the future."
I believe in "local control." These plants make all Idahoans "local." I am concerned about how decisions to allow nuclear power plants in Idaho will be made and so should every citizen in Idaho.The 2007 Idaho Energy Plan invites merchant nuclear power plants to use Idaho.
Will Payette and Owyhee county commissioners succumb to local pressure, special interest or intimidation to allow these plants in their county? Who stands to profit from them?
Do those who profit live in close proximity to them? If they are built, will Idahoans have to outbid California costs for any electricity generated from our soil and water?
I believe in being proactive instead of reactive and have joined with Dr. Peter Rickards and the good citizens of Idaho all across our state who have started an initiative to help protect Idaho and its citizens. This proactive group, Idaho Families For The Safest Energy (IFFSE) simply endorses the adoption of laws other states use to protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens. IFFSE also endorses the development and support of a wide diversity of safer, more cost effective, sustainable energy development.
Why should Idaho get stuck with these risks? The IFFSE initiative bans nuclear power until a final waste dump is approved and open. Idaho still houses the melted core of Three Mile Island. Why should our state become a bigger repository for more radioactive waste? If that is ever resolved, county commissioners still make the decision.
However, before the final permit is granted, statewide voter approval is required.This provides a fail-safe opportunity for all citizens within Idaho to have a voice in decisions that ultimately affect all of us. All citizens have the constitutional right to protect their family's life, liberty, health and personal property. This Initiative does just that, and we recommend the Legislature enact this safeguard into law this session.
Diana Obenauer, a Republican, is a Jerome County commissioner.
By Diana Obenauer
I was born and raised in Jerome, Idaho, a wonderful, neighborly and special place to live. My roots go deep in my love for our wonderful Magic Valley.Military service and nursing education taught me how to preserve our fighting strength and care for all people in need. I am proud to have served in the Gulf War, and I am proud to serve Jerome County as a county commissioner.
It is important to learn from the past, as we prepare for Idaho's future.When I returned to Jerome from military service, I found changes I had not expected. I do not oppose growth, but it is important to live within our limits. Few people wanted to look at any limits, or at growth that was diversified. Idaho's water has to be used for our agricultural base and our people. It defines our limits.
I discovered neighbors had sold property to Sempra coal company and county permits were already approved. These plants spew mercury, affecting our children and our water. At first, we seemed defenseless, however, miraculously widespread citizen action from all over Magic Valley including the Idaho Dairy Association achieved a legislative moratorium on coal plants, overruling the ill-conceived local decision of county commissioners.
No nuclear power plant is totally "safe." The Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission admit continual threats from disgruntled employees, lax security, and terrorist threats from both physical and computer intruders are today's reality.
Mike Sparks, director of the DOE Office of Technology, admits, "The adversary has full use of the technology in advance to being made. And if we stand still and don't take the initiative to stay a step ahead on the technology, I think we're setting ourselves up for a disaster sometime down in the future."
I believe in "local control." These plants make all Idahoans "local." I am concerned about how decisions to allow nuclear power plants in Idaho will be made and so should every citizen in Idaho.The 2007 Idaho Energy Plan invites merchant nuclear power plants to use Idaho.
Will Payette and Owyhee county commissioners succumb to local pressure, special interest or intimidation to allow these plants in their county? Who stands to profit from them?
Do those who profit live in close proximity to them? If they are built, will Idahoans have to outbid California costs for any electricity generated from our soil and water?
I believe in being proactive instead of reactive and have joined with Dr. Peter Rickards and the good citizens of Idaho all across our state who have started an initiative to help protect Idaho and its citizens. This proactive group, Idaho Families For The Safest Energy (IFFSE) simply endorses the adoption of laws other states use to protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens. IFFSE also endorses the development and support of a wide diversity of safer, more cost effective, sustainable energy development.
Why should Idaho get stuck with these risks? The IFFSE initiative bans nuclear power until a final waste dump is approved and open. Idaho still houses the melted core of Three Mile Island. Why should our state become a bigger repository for more radioactive waste? If that is ever resolved, county commissioners still make the decision.
However, before the final permit is granted, statewide voter approval is required.This provides a fail-safe opportunity for all citizens within Idaho to have a voice in decisions that ultimately affect all of us. All citizens have the constitutional right to protect their family's life, liberty, health and personal property. This Initiative does just that, and we recommend the Legislature enact this safeguard into law this session.
Diana Obenauer, a Republican, is a Jerome County commissioner.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I just wish he'd kiss me first...
WARNING: If you are sensitive to suggestive/racy/risque videos, do NOT watch this! They don't "show" anything but it is VERY suggestive.
That being said, it's pretty funny... in a sad sad way.
Thanks, Lane at News For The Left, for sharing this!
That being said, it's pretty funny... in a sad sad way.
Thanks, Lane at News For The Left, for sharing this!
Saturday, December 16, 2006
More "Otter for Sale"?
The MountainGoat Report has some interesting questions that Guv-elect Otter should answer to:
EnergySolutions Buys a Governor?What does it cost to buy a governor these days? EnergySolutions and their management are hoping it's not more than the $63,800 they spent on Idaho Republican Governor-elect C.L. Butch Otter's 2006 campaign. Let's take a look at EnergySolutions and what they might hope to gain for their money.
Read the rest and demand answers.
Idaho is not for sale!
Crossposted from 43rd State Blues...
More here regarding Butch Otter and Idaho for Sale...
Thursday, December 07, 2006
News Release from Idaho's Nuclear Watchdog
Snake River Alliance
Idaho's Nuclear Watchdog
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho's Nuclear Watchdog
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, December 6, 2006
CONTACT INFORMATION
Jeremy Maxand, Executive Director
(208) 344-9161 office/(208) 850-9334 cell
On December 1, 2006, Alternate Energy Holdings (AEHI) announced its intent to construct and operate a 1,500-megawatt light water nuclear reactor near Bruneau, Idaho. The company maintains that the bulk of the power will be sold on the energy market, primarily to Western states, with a small amount going to pump irrigation water in the Bruneau area. According to AEHI, a "binding agreement" is expected in early 2007 and plant construction will begin in 2008. The AEHI reactor would be the first commercial nuclear reactor in Idaho.
"Idaho doesn't need nuclear and Idaho doesn't want nuclear," said Jeremy Maxand, executive director of the Snake River Alliance, a statewide nuclear watchdog group. "The power and profits would leave Idaho. The nuclear waste would remain in our air, land, and water."
The company says the Energy Policy Act of 2005 creates an "ideal market atmosphere for the development of new plants." According to Maxand, "That's another way of saying AEHI sees an ideal atmosphere for taking advantage of taxpayers, since the Energy Act included massive subsidies for nuclear power."
A new nuclear reactor could put pressure on Idaho farmers and ranchers and other water right holders who are already struggling. All reactors must have substantial water available to create steam to power the turbines and to continuously cool the fuel rods in the reactor core to prevent meltdown. The exact amount of water used depends on the reactor design, but the amounts are massive. For instance, the Vogtle reactor power plant in Georgia withdraws about 64 million gallons of water a day from the Savannah River.
Because of its location, the proposed reactor could put many living downwind in radioactive harm's way. Considering the damage already done by nuclear fallout from nuclear bomb testing at the Nevada Test Site, a new nuclear threat could generate widespread public concern and opposition.
"This nuclear reactor will benefit this one company, but it has nothing to do with my family, community, and environmental beliefs," said Craig Wolfrom, a photographer and father in the Wood River Valley. "I say, 'no' to companies like AEHI that profit off their neighbors leaving them with waste and putting families like mine who live downwind in harms way."
Alternative Energy Holdings is a Nevada-based (http://www.alternateenergyholdings.com/).
Link to the AEHI announcement
http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release_html_b1?release_id=191372
Link to Energy Policy Findings Report (Public opinion survey on energy in Idaho)
http://ppa.boisestate.edu/ssrc/surveys.shtml
Link to study on renewable energy in Idaho
http://www.energyatlas.org/
Link to the Snake River Alliance
http://www.snakeriveralliance.org/
The Snake River Alliance is an Idaho-based grassroots group working through research, education, and community advocacy for peace and justice, the end to nuclear weapons, responsible solutions to nuclear waste and contamination, and sustainable alternatives to nuclear power.
Other Idaho blog postings:
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Don't give up! Speak up!
Don't let Bush continue to rape and pillage America!
The land, water, and air at risk belongs to OUR future...
NOT THE REPUBLICANS' BANK ACCOUNTS!
Don't let them sell, mine, destroy, waste, or pollute our resources!
Demand responsiblity and conservation!
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Is it just me or is Senator Craig still missing the point?
Personally, I think he must be drunk... on power? On Bushy love? Who knows, but how can a sober person come up with this garbage?
For example, check out his current newsletter...
Craig starts out with a survey question:
"To help meet increased demand for oil, should the United States expand responsible oil development to areas currently closed (like ANWR, or the coast of Florida)?"
Excuse me??? What "increased demand"? The one in the United States? I thought it was CHINA's increased demand that was causing the problem! Oh, yes, Americans and their gas-guzzling SUVs and Hummers... that doesn't help either. Hey, I have a BRILLIANT IDEA! Let's start CONSERVING our resources!! Can we try THAT, maybe?
Craig's next item states that:
"Did you know that if former President Clinton hadn't vetoed drilling in ANWR 10 years ago, today it would be producing 1 million barrels of oil per day? The United States ought to be seeking ways to boost energy supplies, not ignore them."
Ummmm, again, may I suggest that we seek ways to CONSERVE energy supplies instead of wasting them? May we seek ways of protecting our beautiful country rather than raping and pillaging it?
This is what he thinks is good news:
On April 21, the federal Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics release its state-by-state employment figures for March. As expected, Idaho's economy maintained its red-hot pace, with unemployment falling even lower, to 3.2 percent, third-lowest in the nation. Access Details to find out what's driving this remarkable economic expansion.
Isn't it great that so many people in Idaho have jobs? Minimum wage (which Republicans have kept to $5.15/hour), low skill (thank you, Walmart), no benefits, but hey, we have JOBS! Tell us how many Idahoans have health insurance, Craig. Tell us how many native Idahoans can afford college, Craig. Tell us how many Idahoans went BANKRUPT last year, Craig... Yeah, we're in GREAT shape, Craig.
For example, check out his current newsletter...
Craig starts out with a survey question:
"To help meet increased demand for oil, should the United States expand responsible oil development to areas currently closed (like ANWR, or the coast of Florida)?"
Excuse me??? What "increased demand"? The one in the United States? I thought it was CHINA's increased demand that was causing the problem! Oh, yes, Americans and their gas-guzzling SUVs and Hummers... that doesn't help either. Hey, I have a BRILLIANT IDEA! Let's start CONSERVING our resources!! Can we try THAT, maybe?
Craig's next item states that:
"Did you know that if former President Clinton hadn't vetoed drilling in ANWR 10 years ago, today it would be producing 1 million barrels of oil per day? The United States ought to be seeking ways to boost energy supplies, not ignore them."
Ummmm, again, may I suggest that we seek ways to CONSERVE energy supplies instead of wasting them? May we seek ways of protecting our beautiful country rather than raping and pillaging it?
This is what he thinks is good news:
On April 21, the federal Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics release its state-by-state employment figures for March. As expected, Idaho's economy maintained its red-hot pace, with unemployment falling even lower, to 3.2 percent, third-lowest in the nation. Access Details to find out what's driving this remarkable economic expansion.
Isn't it great that so many people in Idaho have jobs? Minimum wage (which Republicans have kept to $5.15/hour), low skill (thank you, Walmart), no benefits, but hey, we have JOBS! Tell us how many Idahoans have health insurance, Craig. Tell us how many native Idahoans can afford college, Craig. Tell us how many Idahoans went BANKRUPT last year, Craig... Yeah, we're in GREAT shape, Craig.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Stop Kempthorne's nomination
As I've mentioned at previous posts (Whispers of Kempthorne, Why Not Shouting? and What Is A Westerner"?), I question whether Kempthorne is the right person for the job as Interior Secretary. Is he truly the right person for the job, or was he selected for his schmoozing talents?
Others seem to have concerns also. If you wish to contact your senator and express your concerns, visit Wilderness Home.
I have absolutely no hope that Idaho's senators would pay any attention, but if you are an Idahoan, at least go through the motions. Otherwise, just pass this on to your friends in other states... maybe THEIR senators would listen to them!
I would also like to remind folks to:
Others seem to have concerns also. If you wish to contact your senator and express your concerns, visit Wilderness Home.
I have absolutely no hope that Idaho's senators would pay any attention, but if you are an Idahoan, at least go through the motions. Otherwise, just pass this on to your friends in other states... maybe THEIR senators would listen to them!
I would also like to remind folks to:
"Go to www.freemarketduck.com
and order their recent book, "BOISE'S WATERGATE: University Place and All the Governor's Men". It details (in lurid detail) the true high crimes & misdeameanors of the Kempthorne Administration."
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Declaration of Equality, Rights and Responsibilities
Declaration of Equality, Rights and Responsibilities
(The Declaration of Independence as amended by Bill Chisholm)
(The Declaration of Independence as amended by Bill Chisholm)
We hold these truths, to be self evident, that all men, women and children of all races, of all nations, of all beliefs, of all social and economic circumstances are created equal. That they are endowed by their Creator, with certain, sure, and inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Contentment. That inherent in these rights are also undeniable responsibilities, that among these are Good Neighborliness, Respectful Environmental Stewardship, Personal Accountability and Accountability to Future Generations. To insure these Rights and foster these Responsibilities, government was instituted among humankind and derives its just powers from the consent of the governed. That the surest way to insure one’s Rights, is to embrace one’s Responsibilities. When any form of Government becomes destructive of those Ends, it is the right, it is the duty of the People to alter or abolish it, preferably at the ballot box or peacefully in the streets.
It is further acknowledged as a self evident truth that humankind is a part of Nature. That Nature is made up of interconnected and interdependent systems and species, and that all species and ecological systems should be accorded respect, for they too have come from the same Creator. To best insure our inalienable rights, we must embrace our responsibilities toward Nature.
Mr. Chisholm has been an active voice in our region for many years. He has attempted to protect our environment from nuclear waste, toxic dairies, and the coal plant and probably many other things of which I am unaware. One of the many things I admire about him is that he doesn't just talk the talk, he WALKS the WALK. I remember very clearly the one of his actions which is mentioned here:John Caccia, of Ketchum, Idaho, tells us that longtime environmental activist Bill Chisholm was admitted to the Bannock County jail recently for refusing to pay an additional $1,200 fine for spilling red paint onto a container of spent nuclear fuel. At the time of his offense, the state of Idaho was trying in federal court to halt nuclear waste shipments into the state. "Despite his imprisonment," Caccia continues, "Bill has vowed to continue his mission of bringing about a nationwide debate addressing our country’s nuclear waste policies..."
If we all had 10% of his courage, passion, integrity, and commitment--our world would be a better place.
Learn more about Mr. Chisholm:
Thursday, March 23, 2006
What is a "Westerner"?
There has been a lot of discussion regarding Kempthorne’s qualifications (or lack of) for the job of Interior Secretary under Bush. Those who support this nomination claim that Kempthorne’s classification as a “Westerner” meets the criteria for the job.
This shows me that Kempthorne’s supporters are able to read a compass but have no other understanding of being a “Westerner”. When one thinks of a “Westerner”, the image is more complex than just living on the west side of the continent.
A true “Westerner” should be able to relate to the needs of our rural region. “Westerners” rely on our natural resources (air, water, land) for our quality of life. “Westerners” understand the specific needs of rural communities and the challenges unique to those communities. The recreational activities experienced by true “Westerners” are quite different from urban residents. (Going for a ride a mountain bike through Tamarack and watching satellite TV in your RV isn’t a true “Westerner’s” typical recreational experience.) Rural agribusiness, economy, and survival depends on sensible urban development, responsible resource management, and awareness of the impact of large corporations on small businesses (Walmart vs. mom and pop shops, corporate agribusiness vs. family farms, megadairies/CAFOs impact on our air and water, etc.), and a balance between the needs of a growing population and its effect on our rural citizens.
Do the residents of San Diego (Kempthorne’s place of birth) understand the needs of residents in Brentwood, California? Can the people living in Spokane (where Kempthorne grew up) relate to the economic challenges faced by the citizens of Palouse, Washington? Can residents of Boise with their own urban needs and challenges truly comprehend the struggles faced by their fellow Idahoans in Magic Valley?
Perhaps supporters of this nomination consider Kempthorne’s work experience as proper training for the Interior Secretary. Kempthorne has spent twenty years in politics, three years as “executive vice-president” for Idaho Home Builders Association, and three more years as “state public affairs manager” for FMC Corp. (which is rarely identified in Kempthorne’s bios as a chemical manufacturing company headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). Kempthorne worked as the “executive assistant to the director” for the Idaho Department of Lands for only TWO years.
Does it not raise questions that Kempthorne has spent most of his life in politics, property development, or chemical manufacturing? Does anybody wonder what his qualifications were for executive vice-president/assistant to the director or public affairs manager except for more political maneuvering and promotion rather than actual knowledge of the industry? What do we know about his education other than he graduated from the University of Idaho in 1976? Even his activities as a politician promote serious examination as to Kempthorne’s understanding to our rural way of life and commitment to natural resources.
Before accepting the description of “Westerner” as a qualification for the job of Secretary of Interior, Americans need to identify the difference between a true “Westerner” and an “urban cowboy”.
Just as going to church doesn’t make one a Christian anymore than going to a garage makes one an automobile, living on the west side of the Mississippi does not make one a “Westerner”.
This shows me that Kempthorne’s supporters are able to read a compass but have no other understanding of being a “Westerner”. When one thinks of a “Westerner”, the image is more complex than just living on the west side of the continent.
A true “Westerner” should be able to relate to the needs of our rural region. “Westerners” rely on our natural resources (air, water, land) for our quality of life. “Westerners” understand the specific needs of rural communities and the challenges unique to those communities. The recreational activities experienced by true “Westerners” are quite different from urban residents. (Going for a ride a mountain bike through Tamarack and watching satellite TV in your RV isn’t a true “Westerner’s” typical recreational experience.) Rural agribusiness, economy, and survival depends on sensible urban development, responsible resource management, and awareness of the impact of large corporations on small businesses (Walmart vs. mom and pop shops, corporate agribusiness vs. family farms, megadairies/CAFOs impact on our air and water, etc.), and a balance between the needs of a growing population and its effect on our rural citizens.
Do the residents of San Diego (Kempthorne’s place of birth) understand the needs of residents in Brentwood, California? Can the people living in Spokane (where Kempthorne grew up) relate to the economic challenges faced by the citizens of Palouse, Washington? Can residents of Boise with their own urban needs and challenges truly comprehend the struggles faced by their fellow Idahoans in Magic Valley?
Perhaps supporters of this nomination consider Kempthorne’s work experience as proper training for the Interior Secretary. Kempthorne has spent twenty years in politics, three years as “executive vice-president” for Idaho Home Builders Association, and three more years as “state public affairs manager” for FMC Corp. (which is rarely identified in Kempthorne’s bios as a chemical manufacturing company headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). Kempthorne worked as the “executive assistant to the director” for the Idaho Department of Lands for only TWO years.
Does it not raise questions that Kempthorne has spent most of his life in politics, property development, or chemical manufacturing? Does anybody wonder what his qualifications were for executive vice-president/assistant to the director or public affairs manager except for more political maneuvering and promotion rather than actual knowledge of the industry? What do we know about his education other than he graduated from the University of Idaho in 1976? Even his activities as a politician promote serious examination as to Kempthorne’s understanding to our rural way of life and commitment to natural resources.
Before accepting the description of “Westerner” as a qualification for the job of Secretary of Interior, Americans need to identify the difference between a true “Westerner” and an “urban cowboy”.
Just as going to church doesn’t make one a Christian anymore than going to a garage makes one an automobile, living on the west side of the Mississippi does not make one a “Westerner”.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Kissin' a** achieves more than a brown nose...
This is not just an Idaho issue... Americans who are concerned about how this administration nominates "qualified" (?) individuals to cabinet/Supreme Court/etc. posts and comes up with questionable programs for solving our health care, economy, education, environment, and homeland security issues should pay CLOSE attention to the current nomination of Idaho's own "Governor Rogaine" (loved that name!) to the position of Interior Secretary.
Keep in mind that this is the same administration who accomplished the following (thank you to Make Them Accountable):
Inexperienced 28-Year-Old Bush Staffer Appointed to Critical Homeland Security Post
The Bush administration has appointed 28-year-old former White House staffer Doug Hoelscher as the executive director of the Homeland Security Advisory Committees.
In his new position, Hoelscher will gather expert advice “on behalf of the president and the Homeland Security secretary” from 20 other advisory boards covering “key areas of homeland security, including threats to infrastructure and preventing terrorist attacks that use weapons of mass destruction.” His experience?
But back to Kempthorne...
Idaho bloggers and others are expressing their concerns and opinions... I won't pretend to know enough about the issues to write more here--that would be redundant and foolish! However, I do encourage all Americans to pay attention to this nomination... become informed and share your opinions with others--including YOUR representatives and senators! I would like to also pass on this reading recommendation:
More discussion is happening at:
Red State Rebels
43rd State Blues
DailyKos #1
DailyKos #2
Political Game
NOTE:
Not that this has anything to do with protecting our interior, but I did find it quite interesting that aRepublican (you know, the political party with the direct line to God, unlike us pagan liberals) would be rumored to have a mistress who has borne a child by him! I'm SO disappointed! (And surprised also! Gosh! So much for Idaho and "family values"!)
Keep in mind that this is the same administration who accomplished the following (thank you to Make Them Accountable):
Inexperienced 28-Year-Old Bush Staffer Appointed to Critical Homeland Security Post
The Bush administration has appointed 28-year-old former White House staffer Doug Hoelscher as the executive director of the Homeland Security Advisory Committees.
In his new position, Hoelscher will gather expert advice “on behalf of the president and the Homeland Security secretary” from 20 other advisory boards covering “key areas of homeland security, including threats to infrastructure and preventing terrorist attacks that use weapons of mass destruction.” His experience?
Hoelscher has no management experience, a review of his professional credentials shows. He came to government in 2001 as a low-level White House staffer, arranging presidential travel, according to news reports. He earned $30,000 a year, salary documents show…
But back to Kempthorne...
Idaho bloggers and others are expressing their concerns and opinions... I won't pretend to know enough about the issues to write more here--that would be redundant and foolish! However, I do encourage all Americans to pay attention to this nomination... become informed and share your opinions with others--including YOUR representatives and senators! I would like to also pass on this reading recommendation:
"Go to www.freemarketduck.com and order their recent book, "BOISE'S WATERGATE: University Place and All the Governor's Men". It details (in lurid detail) the true high crimes & misdameanors of the Kempthorne Administration."
More discussion is happening at:
Red State Rebels
43rd State Blues
DailyKos #1
DailyKos #2
Political Game
NOTE:
Not that this has anything to do with protecting our interior, but I did find it quite interesting that a
Monday, February 27, 2006
Contact your legislator!
From Senator Clint Stennett (District 25), Senate Minority Leader:
February 27, 2006
Protect Idaho by supporting HB689!
SEMPRA coverage in the Times-News
Posted at Gooding Drinking Liberally:
Jerome Cty Coal-Fired Power Plant FACT SHEET
February 27, 2006
Legislators need to be aware that residents are watching how we handle this sensitive issue. There needs to be persistent pressure from the public on legislators to get this issue right the first time. Once this facility is operating, we will not be able to "unring the bell".Previous entries regarding SEMPRA:
Sempra officials told the House Environmental and Energy Committee yesterday that if they passed the moratorium (H689), they would take their industry elsewhere. I only hope that Idaho Legislators will not take that as a threat. This is a new industry to Idaho. We are not set up to address all the concerns this industry will bring along with it. If we permit this industry out of fear and blindly open our borders to this industry without taking the time necessary to set up the crucial processes to protect our resources and the public, we will be selling out Idaho and all the residents of Southern Idaho at this time.
If Sempra cannot respect the time necessary to prepare ourselves for them, then they don't deserve Idaho. Please continue to share your opinions with other legislators, as well as your neighbors, friends and family and ask them to do the same.
Protect Idaho by supporting HB689!
SEMPRA coverage in the Times-News
Posted at Gooding Drinking Liberally:
Jerome Cty Coal-Fired Power Plant FACT SHEET
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