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May 30, 2005
FBI: You say eco-activist, we say eco-terrorist
Just read this on GNN. Apparently, there is a growing concern at the federal level that "extreme" environmental activist groups pose a terror threat to U.S interests. Despite the high level rumblings coming from the FBI, my guess is this won't go anywhere. On the other hand, stranger things have happened. Check out the CNN link for additional info.
Posted by Jason at 12:29 AM | Comments (1)
May 26, 2005
Technology meets Activism
Here's a really interesting post on mezzoblue.com. It discusses Google Maps and the ability to keep tabs on the activities of corporations. In this case the offending companies are those that clear cut forests. As mentioned in the post, companies and government have always had the technological advantage over the public. With technologies like the internet and now Google Maps, the tide appears to be slowly turning. Corporations can no longer rely on the adage "Out of sight, out of mind." Little brother is watching.
Thanks to Diego over at metacool for hipping me to this post.
Posted by Jason at 11:13 AM
May 20, 2005
Power to the People
As many Canadians are aware (and you should be if you're not), the minority government survived a non-confidence vote by the narrowest of margins (one vote). Quite an ending to this political soap opera. Of all the stories that sprung from the build-up, the actions of Chuck Cadman, an independent, should stand out the most.
After Belinda Stronach, a Conservative, crossed over to the Liberals, the political die had been set -- it would come down to the votes of the three independents. Most knew that Carolyn Parrish would vote in favour of the government. Although she hates Paul Martin, her distain for the Conservatives runs even deeper. Odds were David Kilgour would most likely vote against the government. Kilgour became an independent in reaction to his disgust with the Liberal Party and the sponsorship scandal. Chuck Cadman however took a different approach to making his decision: he polled his constituency. How about that?! A politician actually asked the people he represents what they thought.
In an era where political superstars are made or bought; where partisan politics are deemed more important than the will of the people; and political ambition is masqueraded as conscience, Cadman's decision making process is like a breath of fresh air. Inevitably, the public will forget about the roles people played in this historical vote. But in the meantime, let's not forget that regular people can still make a difference in the running of our country. We can thank Chuck Cadman for reminding us.
Posted by Jason at 2:17 PM
May 18, 2005
HeadsUp: $1000 Grants for youth projects
Please pass this along to anyone you think might be interested:
Want to help your community or change the world? Need some funds and support to help get things going? Youth Service America (YSA) and Youth Venture can help! YSA and Youth Venture are teaming up again to make everyday National Youth Service Day (NYSD).
In conjunction with NYSD we’re offering funding to enable young people to engage in community service and make a difference in their world. Turn your NYSD 2005 project into a sustainable community service venture or create new sustainable projects for NYSD 2006, April 21 st-23 rd. Twenty awards of up to $1,000 in start-up funds are available to young people (ages 12-20) who want to create sustainable new, civic-minded organizations, clubs or businesses (“Ventures”). These Ventures must be created by youth, youth-led and designed to be a lasting asset to the community. YSA Youth Venturers are required to host a NYSD event.
Applications are available at www.youthventure.org/ysa. Applications must be received by 12:00 noon on June 13, 2005 . Email myoung@youthventure.org or call 202.296.2992 ext 17 with questions.
What's your passion? You DREAM IT and we'll help you DO IT.
Youth Venture is a movement of young people who are changing their communities through youth social entrepreneurship. Youth Venture provides access to scholarships, awards, special conference invitations, media opportunities, workshop training, and a national network of active young people. In addition YSA Youth Venturers have access to all NYSD planning materials and tip sheets through YSA to plan your National Youth Service Day event.
YSA Youth Venture teams have done everything from using a theatre to provide a positive activity for urban youth to running park clean-ups. Our Venturers have been featured in Forbes, Teen People and Urban Teen Scene.
Posted by Jason at 10:48 AM
May 16, 2005
Coming To A Store Near You
Things have been kinda heavy lately. Here's something light to get the week started. I wonder how Dubya would have faired against Steve Austin and his kung fu grip?
Thanks to Asha for the link.
http://www.peacecandy.com/gwbush/dishonestdubya/
Posted by Jason at 10:20 AM
May 5, 2005
Greenpeace Mourns the Loss of Bob Hunter
Bob Hunter, one of the fathers of Greenpeace and eco-activism, died this week. Although a flawed individual (who isn't)I believe the world is a better place as a result of his life and accomplishments.
Posted by Jason at 12:08 PM