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This is the weblog of
Raymond Powers.
Here I will be sharing what I find of import, humor, concern, inspiration and on the transformational edge
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A Quote:
Carrying a medicine for which no one has found the disease and hoping I would make it in time. --Richard Shelton
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Raymond lives in Ojai, where the time now is:
11:57AM
Unique Readers:
Primarily
Public Domain
Everything I've written here, except my copyrighted
essays, poetry, lyrics, and music is hereby placed in the public
domain. The quotes from other people's writings, and the pictures
used might or might not be copyrighted, but are considered fair
use. Thus the license here would best be described as:
Primarily Public
Domain.
Please ask permission if there is any question in
regards to public domain usage.
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| Saturday, March 25, 2006 |  |
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25 Mar 2006 @ 00:16
Lime Planet, New York, New York
Of the many rising stars in the field of green architecture, Richard Cook is arguably the brightest. He has a theoretical rigor and passion for sustainability on par with William McDonough. He has the design ingenuity of Frank Gehry. So it’s not surprising that Cook is quickly making his name known among the vanguard of 21st century architects.
In 2003, Cook joined forces with Bob Fox, one of the original pioneers of green architecture who designed the ultra-glamorous Conde Nast building in Manhattan’s 4 Times Square – the first skyscraper in the country to incorporate green-design elements and rooftop solar panels. Known as Cook + Fox, their firm is now constructing one of the world’s most ambitious sustainable building projects: A 54-story tower of glass and steel at One Bryant Park in midtown Manhattan. It will include high-performance green elements ranging from copious natural lighting and waterless urinals to on-site electricity generation and laser sensors that turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
Cook spoke to LIME about his green conversion experience, his heroes, and his vision for an urban utopia, and offered an intimate glimpse of his own family and home.
Read the interview at: http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/03/lime_meet_rick.php
or click MORE More >
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| Friday, March 24, 2006 | |
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24 Mar 2006 @ 07:22
Oglala Sioux president on South Dakota abortion law
Indianz.Com. In Print.
URL: [link]
Giago: Oglala Sioux president on state abortion law
“When Governor Mike Rounds signed HB 1215 into law it effectively banned all abortions in the state with the exception that it did allow saving the mother’s life. There were, however, no exceptions for victims of rape or incest. His actions, and the comments of State Senators like Bill Napoli of Rapid City, SD, set of a maelstrom of protests within the state.
Napoli suggested that if it was a case of “simple rape,�? there should be no thoughts of ending a pregnancy. Letters by the hundreds appeared in local newspapers, mostly written by women, challenging Napoli’s description of rape as “simple.�? He has yet to explain satisfactorily what he meant by “simple rape.�?
The President of the Oglala Sioux Tribe on the Pine Ridge Reservation, Cecilia Fire Thunder, was incensed. A former nurse and healthcare giver she was very angry that a state body made up mostly of white males, would make such a stupid law against women.
“To me, it is now a question of sovereignty,�? she said to me last week. “I will personally establish a Planned Parenthood clinic on my own land which is within the boundaries of the Pine Ridge Reservation where the State of South Dakota has absolutely no jurisdiction.�?
Strong words from a very strong lady. I hope Ms. Fire Thunder challenges Gov. Rounds and the state legislators on this law that is an affront to all independent women.” More >
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| Thursday, March 23, 2006 | |
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23 Mar 2006 @ 03:53
The January - February print issue of WorldWatch Magazine intimated that China was considering a nationwide 5% tax on disposable chopsticks. It would seem they were on the money, as the chopstick tax is now due to implemented next month, according to a news report. The news story notes the Chinese government as saying “it is a terrible waste of timber that is depleting the country's forests.” The WorldWatch piece would agree with this, indicating that China produces some 450 billion pairs a year — just for domestic use alone, downing the equivalent of 25 million trees. This new tax is part of round of consumption taxes to help China cut “energy use by a fifth over the next five years and improve the environment.” Should we now look to the West to impose a consumption tax on ice cream sticks and coffee stirrers? Now, there’s thought
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23 Mar 2006 @ 03:49
Mairi Beautyman, Berlin, Germany
Since 1965, as part of an international design competition, the city of Berlin has awarded the Peter Joseph Lenné Prize in three categories: garden and landscape architecture, urban green space planning, and landscape planning incorporating nature conservation. The hunt is on for 2006, and a committee of experts from Berlin's universities and colleges, the Academy of the Arts, the Karl Foerster Foundation, and the municipal administration for green space planning are seeking entries, due June 26, from individuals—or groups of individuals—under 35 years old. Named after the man behind several of Germany's green landmarks, including the parks at Sanssouci in Potsdam and the Tiergarten in Berlin, the competition is a an example of what a proactive endeavor can do to local, and international plots of green. Submissions must be received by June 26. For more information, visit the city’s Senate Department of Urban Development online More >
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23 Mar 2006 @ 00:54
My dear friend John Roulac, founder of Nutiva hemp foods and HempShake sent me this study. It forbodes well for the hemp foods industry.
DNA separates hemp from marijuana plants
MINNEAPOLIS, March 22 (UPI) -- Two University of Minnesota scientists
have become the first to unequivocally separate hemp plants from
marijuana plants by using genetic markers.
Hemp, a crop grown for fiber and seed, and marijuana, the most
popular illegal drug in the United States, both belong to the species
Cannabis sativa. They differ in levels of the psychoactive drug
tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, but are otherwise difficult to tell
apart.
The study's authors -- George Weiblen, a Minnesota professor of plant
biology, and Shannon Datwyler a postdoctoral associate who is on the
faculty of California State University-Sacramento -- say the new DNA
"fingerprinting" technique holds promise for distinguishing different
domesticated plant lines in U.S. criminal cases. It may also prove
useful in nations where the cultivation of hemp is permitted, but
marijuana is illegal, as in Canada and Europe.
The study appears in the March issue of the Journal of Forensic Science.
Copyright © 2006 United Press International, Inc.
In Health,
John W Roulac
Founder and CEO
Author of four books on Hemp & Composting
Nutiva — Delicious Hemp & Coconut Superfoods
800-993-4367 ext 701
[link]
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| Wednesday, March 22, 2006 | |
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22 Mar 2006 @ 02:41
Jacob Gordon, Los Angeles, CA
It appears that a small electrical component company near Boston has figured out how to get electricity out of trees. MagCap Engineering is pretty sure they’ve come up on the next renewable energy revolution. By pounding a nail into the trunk and a conductor into the ground, a faint but consistent charge is detected in a wire running from the tree to the earth. They are now charging NiCad batteries and illuminating LEDs off the current. MagCap is applying for a patent while MIT tests the phenomenon in the blistering Cambridge cold. A company spokesperson told The Boston Globe they hope to be able to charge hybrid batteries this way, but they also propose lighting roads. Makes sense, I suppose. Everything living is running on electric current. More >
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22 Mar 2006 @ 02:39
from Tree Huggers
Collin Dunn, Durham, North Carolina
TreeHugger first reported that Smart Cars would be availabe in the US about 10 months ago, yet a story in PCmag.com quotes parent-company Smart-Automobile LLC as announcing last week that they would begin making their way in the States. After a bit of digging, we discovered that there was a Smart Car sold stateside in May of last year, but it appeared that the lucky husband & wife in Reno, NV received the first (and only, at the time) model imported into the US via an auction on eBay. In any event, according to a much newer ZAP (Zero Air Pollution, the company responsible for Americanizing and distributing the cars) press release, there are now more of the diminuitive ForTwo models on their way. 85 units will be made available to select dealerships across the country; we can only hope that more will soon follow as there are still about $750 million in advance orders waiting to be filled. Once they arrive, prices will range from $15,000 to $25,000 More >
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| Tuesday, March 21, 2006 | |
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 21 Mar 2006 @ 19:19
Imported Organic vs Local Conventional at Whole Foods
Slate Magazine points out in a recent article on Whole Foods that "Let's say you live in New York City and want to buy a pound of tomatoes in season. Say you can choose between conventionally grown New Jersey tomatoes or organic ones grown in Chile. Of course, the New Jersey tomatoes will be cheaper. They will also almost certainly be fresher, having traveled a fraction of the distance. But which is the more eco-conscious choice? In terms of energy savings, there's no contest: Just think of the fossil fuels expended getting those organic tomatoes from Chile. Which brings us to the question: [given the variables of] freshness, price, and energy conservation, should a New Yorker just instinctively choose organic, even if the produce comes from Chile?"
So pretend you live in the Big Apple. What would your choice be? More >
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 21 Mar 2006 @ 18:23
My long time musical inspiration and friend William Aura has been offering his heart and hard work to assist Tibetan refugee children and students.
I wanted to share his compassionate efforts with you.
----------------------------------------------
Aura Communications – March 21, 2006
Dear Friends of Aura Imports,
Hop aboard. It’s that time again and I take strength in you joining me. Today I depart for Thailand, Nepal and India for six weeks. The “Aura Communications” journals and photographs will be published every 5 days or so as I travel (depending on available electricity of course.) This will be my 6th visit to the region. Your prayers and support are particularly appreciated at this time as the suffering continues at an alarming rate in the Himalayan world. I am pleased to say that collectively we are indeed making a difference… one heart at a time.
For those who have followed this path for the past five years, your devotion will not be forgotten. For those new to these writings, on behalf of these Tibetan refugee and war-torn Nepali students, we welcome you to our unfolding story:
Journals from January 2005:
[link]
Journals from September 2005:
[link]
A number of wonderful opportunities have developed since the beginning of this process.
Rick Ray is producing an extraordinary film documentary about His Holiness entitled “Ten Questions for the Dalai Lama”. Footage from my first sojourn to Lhasa, Tibet and a provocative interview with a former Tibetan political prisoner will be incorporated into the final cut. The license fee is being donated to our student fund. Thank-you Rick. This is a profound honor and could not have been done without your support. [link]
Mark Johnson has garnered high accolades for his groundbreaking film “Playing for Change” with at least 20 airplays so far featured on the Sundance channel. The immediate success of this documentary has led this remarkable spirit to develop a new creation showcasing deeply inspired musicians from around the globe. I am so pleased to announce I have been invited to guide him and his crew throughout India and Nepal to document these profound artists. This is powerful work. [link]
Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro of Energy Muse are designing some of the most spiritually significant jewelry on the planet right now. It is my great pleasure to produce with them an entire new line of gemstone delights rooted in ancient mysticism. My dear Newari artisan family in Nepal will handcraft these evocative pieces in silver and gold. This collaboration promises to be significant and will benefit many. [link]
Salvatore and Nancilee Iozzia of Chain Reaction Web have generously chosen to sponsor and host our website. When I received the surprising call from Salvatore I must admit I was floored at such a random act of kindness. I never thought such a thing could happen from total strangers. This strong reactive support has raised the game and I am better for it. Anyone who requires professional level website hosting with a mindfulness that exceeds your expectations please contact them and mention my name. [link]
My brilliant niece and nephew, Genevieve and Ben Keller, created our spectacular website. Positive response continues to pour in. Their dedication to this work continues to inspire uncle William. I highly recommend this team and will never forget their devotion.
[link]
Trinity Thomas has graciously stepped forward to assist in getting these writings and photographs arranged for publication. She is a brilliant writer, gemstone enthusiast, eminent psychic and a dear heart. I thank you for this selfless act of love.
Interest in the photographs for use in upcoming books, calendars and cards are coming in. It’s such a pleasure to witness with my own eyes the growing desire to learn more about this spiritually significant region and how their message may enrich us in these challenging times.
So many students’ lives have been affected in such a profound way. Numerous folks write about how this one-to-one relationship with a deserving student has changed their lives forever.
Here is a recent letter from our beloved Tashi. We are so proud of his accomplishments:
“Today I write to share my feelings and support for the man and his contributions and help for the Tibetan people and Tibet which is unlimited to share on the short way to all. As well, I am Aura’s second friend among all his friends in exile.
I was born in Amdo region of Tibet. In 1997 I escaped from Tibet to India. The Tibetan Exile Government provided me school for learning and education for four years. After four years, my opportunities were over.
I didn’t have anywhere to go, no good friends and no nice relative also in exile. While I was thirsting to study more, I wish I could do something for Tibet in the future. I do not expect to return to Tibet and do not have any good family in Tibet. I also felt I could build good way for my life by my own hand then that will be nice for all.
Due to Gods blessing I saw Aura first at Dharamsala in front of Tibetan New Reception Centre. He looked at me and smiled, and took snaps of me before we met. Besides his looks, his interest in Tibetan issues were such strong feelings in his face and smiles. I could feel it. But all the Tibetans he was meeting at TNRC were not able to communicate in English. So then I decided to help translate and I loved to give some information and made friends with him. After that day, we met again and I already bought some books with latest information on Tibet and her people. He was excited he got those books from me. He told me these look so good and what he was looking for. He also wanted to interview me on video about Tibet and to share my life and experience. I found some peace inside when he accepted my request to find some help for my education. His generous ambition and desire to help more Tibetan younger kids education and encouragement makes me so proud. There are so many feelings I can’t share through words or through actions also.
All I have today is because of his blessing and his wide compassion. My entire life changed new, now I have Ama la (Ama in Tibetan which means mother and La means term of love and respect word). So he made this great karma for us, my Ama la and me.
I respect his purity and objectives onward to Tibet and Tibetan issues. Such generosity in a person is so few in today’s world. We always appreciate his contribution to Tibet Exile. For my Ama la and I are always giving unlimited thanks to his blessing to us. Also we pray his dreams come true every single day.”
Sincerely,
Tashi Gyamtso
To read more about students who are desperately in need of educational and emotional support:
[link]
Of course none of this would be possible without this incredible bodhisattva posse. A hearty Tashi Delek and Nameste to our sponsors and contributors for your continued support: Maria Ehrenreich, John Wooler, Craig and Deb Dobbins, Linda Myers, Dorene and Michael Polcyn, Ted Higashi, Jeanette Nelson, Sherry Carballo, Douglas Spotted Eagle, Craig Chaquico and family, Jo Ann and Allen Kepler, Ozzie Ahlers, Gerlando Compilati, Kevin and Lynn Ryerson, Peter Sterling, Nancy Campbell, Sharon Grant & Jillian, Dr. Michael Thompson, Robin Rutherford, Barbara Beale, Darya Tamjidi, Mitch Manker, John and Kent, The Barry Aquilino family, Linda and Luther King, Carol Kiva, Dan Selene, Roger Lifeset, Sepehr Haddad, Tim Timmermans (if I missed you please forgive me!) and numerous angels of mercy who have opened their homes for fund-raising events. I thank you from the depth of my being for joining this dance.
As always, 100% of any donation goes directly to a student’s education fund. Write me back with your pledge and I will place see that it is distributed on this current sojourn. The challenge is great and I humbly ask for your prayers and contributions.
I close with a warm heart and deep appreciation to all who continue to make a real difference lighting one candle at a time. Stay tuned.
Yours in the spirit of peace,
William Aura
cybertibet@yahoo.com More >
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| Monday, March 20, 2006 | |
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20 Mar 2006 @ 21:34
Burgerville Turns Waste Oil Into Biodiesel
March 20, 2006 12:56 PM - Collin Dunn, Durham, North Carolina
We recently reported on a McDonalds franchise owner running his cars on the leftover vegetable oil from his restaurants; now another burger chain has upped the ante. Burgerville, a Vancouver, WA-based "fast casual" restaurant chain, has begun converting its used cooking oil into biodiesel. Through an agreement with Portland company MRP Services, the used oil is picked up and transported to a processing plant where it is converted to biodiesel. Before the current arrangement, the oil was shipped to Asia and typically used in the creation of cosmetics and soap. For Burgerville, whose menu includes regional ingredients like Oregon Country beef and Tillamook cheese, this isn't their first foray into sustainable business practices. Last August, the company announced it would pay for its electricity by purchasing wind power, a move that avoided adding 17.4 million pounds of carbon dioxide to the region annually
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20 Mar 2006 @ 21:30
How many times have you seen a broken or flickering neon light? Durability is not one neon's strengths. But now a new product, LED-Flex, has been introduced as a substitute for neon. The producer, www.MuleLighting.com , has managed to make the flexible LEDs have the appearance and brightness of neon. The biggest advantage of this product is the efficiency level — it reduces energy costs by about 70%. It also has all the advantages of LEDs — durability, a cool operating temperatures and longevity.
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| Sunday, March 19, 2006 | |
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19 Mar 2006 @ 18:54
“Theres no business to be done on a dead planet” - David Brower
1% For The Planet is an alliance of businesses committed to leveraging their resources to create a healthier planet. Members recognize their responsibility to and dependence on a healthy environment and donate at least 1% of their annual net revenues to environmental organizations worldwide. The alliance aims to prove that taking environmental responsibility is good for business.
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Sounding Circle implies the cycles, spirals and symbols of our thought, our culture, our lineage and our imagination.
A place to share ideas, create community, and give voice to our muse.
"Giving more than we take, taking just what we need."
"The universe is music connecting 10th dimensional hyperspace".
Prof. Michio Kaku, Phd. |
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- lyric from You Can't Turn Back (But You Can Turn Back On) |
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