Comments Greta has made

Feral Cats NOT to Blame

"Urbanization to Blame for Decrease in Some Migratory Bird Populations, Not Predators"

http://researchnews.osu.edu/archive/birdecol.htmOn Umbra on cats and birds posted 1 year, 5 months ago 72 Responses

Body By Nature

Welcome to superficial America!

Let's say that Brad Pitt does a 15-second PSA saying "Smoking is uncool."
[Have you quit yet, Brad?]

Surgeon General does a 15-second PSA saying that smoking cigarettes increases your risk of heart disease, lung cancer, asthma, blah, blah, blah.

Which PSA do you think will be more effective?  Most likely Brad's, especially among young people.

Lots of people want to be cool; maybe even more people want to be thin. I've no problem with the word "skinny" being used to reel in the unsuspecting.

That being said, I think people are totally missing the humor in the title. (I've not read the book.)

I have been thin all my life.  I've often been the target of the "skiny bitch" look, or target for the "how do you stay so thin?" query.

People communicate such disdain as if you are magically thin -- that no healthy conscientious action on your part has anything to do with it.On An interview with Rory Freedman, coauthor of vegan manifesto Skinny Bitch posted 1 year, 10 months ago 8 Responses

If Looks Could Kill

And then, there is a totally different ethical issue: Even though no animal (presumably) suffered and died to produce faux-patent leather, nevertheless, if the faux-leather still looks like leather, then the wearer may still be understood to be signaling that wearing leather is cool or OK.

Your Chuck Taylor's can take you only so far. Pretty much, everything that is non-fabric looks like leather...and this is most shoes. I think that it is not quite the same as fur and faux fur, which look so distinctly like the actual animal.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Yeaaaah, what I meant...

was he doesn't suck as much as most republicans.On An interview with Florida's governor, a Republican climate crusader posted 1 year, 10 months ago 6 Responses

Say Anything

If, during the election period, a presidential candidate articulates a clear plan to address climate change, you can only be sure that it means that he/she cares enough about the election to do their homework.

I am interested in a candidate who first consults their heart and then their experts, rather than one who first consults the polls and then their experts. (It would be helpful to have the experts in their somewhere.)

The truth is that an election is dominated by rhetoric.  Would Al Gore's platform issue endorsements merely shape the candidates' future rhetoric?

The real question is who do you believe will aggressively address the Environmental agenda immediately. Having an aggressive plan is great, but who would actually work immediately to carry it out?

So far, I believe that it would be:

1. McCain [already has]
   
1. Kucinich [already walks the walk]
   
1. Clinton [on E&PW Committee]
   
2. Edwards
   
3. Obama [He will be too busy working on his re-election campaign.]
   
100. all the rest of the republican presidents.

So, if one looks to past leadership performance as a decision-making tool, McCain looks good. (Of course, he looks horrible on so many other issues, IMO.)

Now, which president would provide continuity on Environmental issues is another list.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

My Brush with Goreness

"I'm guessing this is one thing George W. has on him -- probably runs a really tight meeting, with very few questions."

That's because George W. has very few answers. Thank you, I'll be here all week.

I was at a conference luncheon at Walt Disney World where, to my surprise/delight, Al Gore was the keynote speaker. (Sat at table right next to him, even.) During Q&A, someone asked him about the iPhone, which was due to be released to the public soon.  He lit up like a little boy, pulled his iPhone of his pocket and began to gush about all the cool features. He also raved about one of the rides at Disney.

I found that giddy quality quite endearing.

Hey, a guy you'd enjoy having a beer with AND one who could actually run a country.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

As to historically-significant furs...

Donate to a museaum.On Umbra on (inherited) fur coats posted 1 year, 10 months ago 60 Responses

What about quality of life?

"The idea of just saying "no" is lovely.  But people with children to feed rarely do so.  This is true not just in China, but throughout the developing world.  Some of the children I teach live in rooms of about 15 X 15 with their family, water is down the street as is the toilet.  Heat is from coal.  This is actually better than many even poorer people face in parts of the developing world (food is cheap here, for instance).  What would you have them give up?"

What would you have them give up? Health? Safety? If poor people are living and working in toxic and unsafe environments, how is that better for them? Wouldn't it be better that the country solicit healthier economic alternatives, even if it meant that the citizens were not as prosperous (financially speaking)?

As long as there are people willing to work in illegal/unsafe/unhealthy environments, and people/leaders willing to turn a blind eye, the situation will never improve.

[And, yes, I have given up financial security (often) to make what I believe is a moral decision.]  

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

True dat

Great points, Patrick. It's nice to hear from someone who is seeing it first hand. The accessibility of world views is what makes the Internet great.

To the comment of China having a disadvantage over US and Europe because of its 'sudden' development:

That is a poor excuse. China has those histories as a resource. I suspect that the problems of China and other countries will be the same: greed, sense of entitlement, an attitude of 'my little bit of consumption won't hurt', exacerbated by poorly designed and enforced legislation.

Countries need to say "no" to the U.S. No, we will not accept your pollution. No, we will not accept your CO2-guzzling industries. (U.S. companies definitely should be credited with the carbon emissions generated by their industries outside the U.S.) It will be hard because that industry contributes to their prosperity.

America pointing fingers is a huge hypocrisy. Throughout history, America has been looked upon as a idea society, which others hope and try to emulate.  So, it should come as no surprise that as other countries begin to prosper, they too will take up "our" gluttonous ways.

Here's a thought: Why don't "we" (America) try to set a good example of the 3 eco-Rs: respect, responsibility, reserve.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Gluttony, thy name is America

This whole notion of asking Americans to sacrifice is curious.  To whom are those remarks directed?  The person consuming their slice (or less) of pie or the person consuming their 3rd slice of pie.

I think that we should teach the meaning of gluttony and reinstate the virtue of NOT being gluttonous. Let's start by asking people to consume only "their reasonable share" (and redefine what that means).

Look at our obese society...food makes for the perfect metaphor.  With an alarming rate of child obesity, it shows that gluttony (/selfishness) is being taught earlier these days.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

You Get a Do-Over

Okay, Tom, I must call foul on this one.  

You know good and well that Grist readers/bloggers are perfectly capable of obsessing about more than one subject at a time.

Your argument is a bit akin to "there are children starving in Africa, so don't fret over your broken leg".

I appreciate the opinions of others (who I respect) regarding the presidential candidates.  The reason that the discussions are worthy of the bandwidth is that primaries and caucuses seem to matter.  Good candidates drop out of the race because of those showings.  So, I welcome the impressions and links from others to help me make an informed decision come primary and/or general election day.

[That being said, I live in Florida and have no idea who I will be allowed to even consider in the primaries.]

So, Tom, I believe that you owe Grist.com and few more 1s and 0s. (No hard feelings.)

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Cheers to McCain

I was pleased to hear a republican (if only one) -- John McCain -- at least bring up climate change. Not that it makes any difference; the other candidates statements on said topic on entirely rhetoric.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Hello, Mr. Fence.

I don't dislike any of the candidates.  I like different things about each.  I think that each would make a great public servant...I just don't feel as though each would make a great president.  

Put the candidates strongest qualities together -- Edward's passion and tenacity, Clinton's strength and reasonableness, Obama's affability and optimism, Richardson's executive and cabinet experience, and Kucinich's commitment -- and you get a great candidate.

The ones that more closely match my values (Kucinich and Richardson, for example) have the least chance of winning.  The one that I like the best, isn't running.

So, I sit.On Huckabee and Obama win Iowa caucuses; what's the green angle? posted 1 year, 10 months ago 19 Responses

A Perfect Storm

Admittedly, it would be great if there was a perfect environmentalist presidential candidate.  And, wouldn't it be great it there was a perfect environmentalist.

I get "nailed" on those carbon calculators for being a single-person household -- even though I live in an energy-efficient (avg. $35/mo. electric) 1300 sq.ft. townhouse, which also is my office.

Perhaps the Edwards and the Gores, and the like, are efficiently using all 28,000 sq. ft. As the arguments been made before, all that space might be used to house multiple families (staff, caretakers) or extended family, and/or multiple offices.  Perhaps not.

Yeah, I suppose that a John Edwards or an Al Gore could go to the YMCA to work out each day instead of having their own gym.

Even environmentalists have guilty pleasures (meat eating, procreating, trips to grandma's house, etc.), which hopefully they try to keep to a minimum.

The Edwards home is on 102 acres.  Do we give him credit for land conservation?  Carbon credits for the carbon sink of the "heavily wooded" site?  Personally, I think the 28,000 sq. ft. of buildings is a worthwhile trade off for the conservation of 100 acres of land -- especially in well-developed Orange County, NC.

It is all very complex and I would not want to judge without knowing the details.  Lifestyle choice most certainly is a fair question to ask of any and all presidential candidates.

Hey, I would love nothing more than to help elect an environmentalist/vegan/animal rights activist/conscientious consumer/carbon neutral/non-smoking president.  But, I don't think that the rest of the country is ready for Dennis Kucinich.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

brand identify

I am always puzzled that presidential candidates seldom make it into presidential cabinets.  After all, they have strong brand identify just from the campaign alone.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

P.S.

...If Edwards wins, we will see aggresive leadership on environmental issues.  He will do what Bush is doing now with a (positive) twist -- threaten to veto watered-down enviro legislation.

The public will rally behind Pres. Edwards, and we will see a new, expanded movement of citizen activism.  This force majeure will represent a new source of power.  

:-)

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Obama? Environmental Leader? Hmm...

I think that many people are giving Obama far too much credit (in general) and specifically as to his environmentality.

It seems to me that he began promoting  environment issues (e.g., Climate Change) only when it suited him -- for his presidential campaign because other candidates were. And, he seems to simply mimic whatever Hillary Clinton says.  (In even the briefest of interviews, Edwards mentions concerns for the environment. When Clinton speaks of it, she seems to have a well crafted plan.) Obama's details and commitment on the issues are lacking, imo.

Does he have any record of environmental leadership anywhere?  Has he ever done anything more, at best, than vote the party line on environmental issues?

Truly, I'd like to know more, if I have missed it.

My prediction is that if he wins in 2008, he will sell out...on environmental issues, for sure.  Environmental issues can be a very tough sell. He will just try to appease everybody and we will continue with watered down legislation, if any at all.  Clinton will compromise too much (for my taste), but likely get more than others because of her political clout.On Huckabee and Obama win Iowa caucuses; what's the green angle? posted 1 year, 10 months ago 19 Responses

Again, I ask...

is it too much trouble for you to list the other states and non-profits?  sheesh  Must I scavenger hunt this basic information yet again.On California, 15 other states, and five nonprofits sue EPA over waiver decision posted 1 year, 11 months ago 4 Responses

Good News!

Well, it is certainly good news for me.  Several years ago, not realizing about PBDEs, I bought a memory foam mattress pad at Sam's Club.  (The brand is Sleep Innovations.) And, I just love it!!  With the onset of this discussion, I was starting to get depressed thinking of life without it. But, alas, a response from Sleep Innovations:

Thank you for your inquiry. Our products are made from 100% polyurethane visco elastic memory foam. They do not contain any PBDE's or latex. All
of our foam products meet the requirements of the California Technical Bulletin 117. Please visit http://www.bhfti.ca.gov/ for more information
on that bulletin.

All of our foam is manufactured in the United States and is treated with Ultra Fresh which is an antimicrobial agent. Please visit http://www.ultra-fresh.com/tra/ for more information on Ultra Fresh.

If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact me.

Thank you for your interest in our products

With Kind Regards,

Gracie Quest
Consumer Response
Sleep Innovations
187 Rt. 36 Suite 101
W. Long Branch
New Jersey, 07764

732-443-2002
Ext.  2409
Fax.  732-263-0900
On Umbra on organic mattresses posted 1 year, 11 months ago 7 Responses

New Slogan Alert!

Agreed, Wolverine.  

With all the talk about solving the Climate Change Crisis by asking people to drive less, how about asking people to procreate less.  (Boy, would that wipe out a myriad of enviro issues!)

I've got the new slogan:  "Save the Environment. Go f*** yourself."On U.S. population will be 303.15 million at start of 2008 posted 1 year, 11 months ago 7 Responses

Vegan-friendly?

How about an organic, vegan-friendly mattress. Know any?  An organic, vegan-friendly memory foam mattress or topper would be even better.On Umbra on organic mattresses posted 1 year, 11 months ago 7 Responses

"edict" for Dave's Predict

Doing my part to give you an assist here, Dave:

Laurie David's Stop Global Warming "virtual march" will reach 1 million signatories.
Nope, at least not yet. At press time, the number is 952,213.

Surprisingly, I don't think that I knew about this particular petition. In any case, I have moved you 47,786 people closer to a "Woo Hoo!" on that prediction.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Schoolhouse cRock

...and then, the animated bill bends over...well, you get the point.

"I'm just a bill. I'm only a bill, and I'm bending over capital hill."

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Well played, caniscandida.

As usual, a great (and encapsulating) post.  

Although, I will say, I am disgusted that campaigning on one day is more important than showing up for work and voting a positive bill into law (potentially).

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

The Stepford Candidates

Much agreed about the pathetic question!

A happened upon this CBS moment while flipping channels.  Came in at Fred Thompson.

My overall impression after listening to those who I heard was:

Voters learned nothing about the presidential candidates except that they all can recite each other's message on cue.  (The only real distinction being the promotion of nuclear.) It was a bit like listenging to the "whant whant wha" of the teacher in the "Peanuts".

Even the republicans regurgitated the "we need to do something about Climate Change" mantra.  But, no surprise, they were asked a question on a specific topic.

Bottom line is which candidate do you believe will actually walk the talk?  (I completely discount the republicans, here.)

I have not yet looked at the candidate's voting records, but that would be the only indicator that we have to judge.

But, how many voters will actually go to that much trouble.  Very few.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Great CC video:

Great video. Grist should make this sticky somewhere.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Smug Alert

Yeah, well, the "smug-38mph-driving single" has not populated the Earth with 3 additional carbon-generating, resource-sucking humans.

I would think that the Earth would be better off with 1/4 the population...driving whatever the heck they want.

The arguments are all so tricky, aren't they.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Mind If I Smoke (and Mirror)

So, now Russ Finley is like Stephen Colbert?  Well, now, if ya can't beat them (into submission) with well focused arguments, beat them with smoke and mirrors. Will the real Stephen Colbert please stand the f* up!

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Pass it on

I, too, was thinking that you could ask a local fast-food or chinese restaurant is you could add it to their waste oil.  They probably wouldn't object for small amounts or if they are selling it(or giving it away) to WVOilers.On Umbra on used cooking oil posted 1 year, 12 months ago 12 Responses

Fit To Be Treed

Know what would be a cool addition to the "family tree": an actually family tree!  If not the live tree itself, perhaps a gift certificate from a nursery for a tree.On 10 great ideas for "stuff-free" holiday gifts posted 2 years ago 11 Responses

TherMos Def

Everyone supporting the thermos idea seems to be suggesting an individual thermos. That's all well and good, but why not have the company that you work for invest() in a few large capacity Thermos Pot Pumps or insulated coffee urn, into which freshly brewed coffee is poured immediately.

() They are quite inexpensive. E.g.,  http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-Vacuum-Insulated-2-qt-Bever ...

The better solution is to train yourself, in every aspect of your life, to not be wasteful.  Make only what you think that you will drink. (If dept. wide, take "preorders".)  If that is too much, make less.  If that is too little...get over it.

Best of all, just say no to coffee!
On Umbra on reheating coffee posted 2 years ago 20 Responses

Buy the way...

Happy Buy Nothing Day everyone!  Hope you each like what I got you.On Celebrate Buy Nothing Day on Friday; no purchase necessary posted 2 years ago 2 Responses

Et tu, aussi.

And, thanks to you, Dave, for your delicious commentary, though-provoking topics, and in-your-face bunny slippers.

Greta

P.S. -- A turkey was pardoned in your honor, this day.  Okay, well not just this day...I am a veg*n. And, well, not always pardoned in your honor.  So, sometimes, er, maybe just this once...if I was a meat-eater, I turkey would have been pardoned in your honor.  ...Boy, I miss Jon Stewart.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Close but...

Now, how about doing a cost comparison for a totally compassionate and eco-frienldy Thanksgiving meal -- that would mean vegan, of course.  Better for you, better for the environment.

Unfortunately, your dream meal is an eco-bust.

And, let's be real.  Calling a dish that includes cheese "vegetarian" is most likely a misnomer, as most cheese readily available (particularly hard cheeses) use animal rennet -- the gut of baby cows. So, it really is not vegetarian at all.On In which we attempt to calculate how much an organic feast would cost posted 2 years ago 9 Responses

Why not vote conscious for primaries?

Even if you assume that Kucinich does not have enough support to win the primaries: wouldn't it still be a good idea for environmentalist to vote for him, or Green Party candidate, in primaries to show support of environmental issues as a priority?

P.S. - And, geez, get off Dave's butt about his impressions of the forum. That is what I came to this blog to read -- people's impressions.  There are plenty of other blog entries herein where Dave and others can discuss the fine points of the issues themselves.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Home page photo

As much as I appreciated the forum (and resented the Code Pink activist for disrupting the information that I came to hear), I have to say:

Putting on the home page a photo related to the forum that included only 2 of the 3 candidates was a disappointing decision. It really does seem to negate Kucinich. Certainly a photo of all 3 together exists somewhere. In fact, there should have been a publicity still taken by the forum organizers.  

Shame on you, Grist.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

It will never end

This Dust Bowl mentality applies to everything -- overfishing, overfarming, overdevelopment.  It is the American epidemic of greed and selfishness.

And, no matter the regulations in place, there will always be plenty of those with the "I'm going to get mine" agenda.  Or the denial attitude that "this one little bit won't hurt".

I am doubtful that most people today would sacrifice and 'do their part', as did those during the WW-era.

So, the bigger (and fundamental) issue is how do we bring back integrity, respect, compassion? Working for the greater good?

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

An orange a day helps keep corn ethanol away?

I've always been interested in the use of orange peels for cellulose ethanol production.  That certainly does not pose the same issue as does use of cover crops.

http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/printstory; ...

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Interesting showing

Yep, I agree about Kucinich.  He had me at "vegan diet" (in the opening minutes) and then pretty much lost me after avoiding a specific answer to anything.  He is a great cheerleader and environmental speaker, and provides challenging points in the general debates. However, this was an audience (presumably) well informed on the issues and proposed solutions.  Many, maybe even most, having already read the entire (new) IPCC report. This was an audience who came to hear specifics.  It was a single topic, for heaven's (earth's) sake! If you are going to preach to the choir, you better be prepared to do more than just sing the chorus.

Hillary Clinton's checklist of specifics was impressive and refreshing.  Her proposals seem progressive.  (But would she allow them to be dilluted by opposition; willing to settle for "something".) The best thing that I heard her say is that one minute after being sworn into office, she would sign an executive order requiring every federal facility (department?) to be carbon neutral.  That a was bold, specific, and decisive commitment.

I have not been a big fan of hers, but I thought that her performance was very good.  (That being said, she's too conservative for me on other issues.)

I thought that Edwards did a good job, too.  He stayed on point for the most part, and returned to point when he strayed onto "another aside". He did not offer as many specifics -- no cohesive plan -- but at least offered some specifics.  He certainly appears to be a more straight-shooter, but he is a lawyer.  Being a good debater is as much about what you do not say. Dramatically make the arguments that you can win and avoid the rest.

I've wondered about a Clinton-Edwards ticket -- could be a good balance. (IMO, Clinton would never take 2nd billing. But, I think that Edwards would -- willing to wait his turn.) It always seem crazy to me that presidential candidates wouldn't consider other candidates as running mates, given the huge amount of exposure and support that've already garnered.

At this point, I would not even consider Obama, because he didn't even bother to show up.  Tells me that he does not prioritize environmental issues, as do I.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Excellent point!

Nonetheless, that is a very good point. Just because the U.S. hides a percentage of its carbon emissions in other countries does not mean that the U.S. should not be accountable. We need consumption carbon emissions calculations.

Greta

P.S. -- On who is accountable for that subheading. Yikes!  (--> "Who is accountable for Chinese greenhouse-gas emissions" / better: "Who should be accountable for Chinese greenhouse-gas emissions"; or "To whom should accountable for Chinese greenhouse-gas emissions fall".  ...Just omit the first word ("On") and have a nice day!

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Self-adulation?

Does Chevy own the Green Car Journal?  (Remind me never to waste my money on the publication.)

Reminds me of an award that Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines keeps winning, and promoting, for best green cruise line.  It is awarded by...drumroll...Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.  You know, the one with the history of:

"Royal Caribbean To Pay Record $18 Million Criminal Fine For Dumping Oil And Hazardous Chemicals, Making False Statements; Cruise Line Faces 21 Felony Counts in 6 Different U.S. Courts"

http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/e987e762f557727d ...

[see EPA.gov]On Hybrid Chevy Tahoe wins "Green Car of the Year" award posted 2 years ago 5 Responses

Correct Time?

The sign up website lists the event start time as 1:30 PM PST, not 2:00PM.  (Door open 1:00PM.)  Can you clarify which of those is correct?

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Better and more helpful hoax:

If only someone would convince people that Climate Change would bring about the extinction of NASCAR.

Heh heh.

Better yet, require every spectator of air shows and auto races to pay a "carbon offset fee" at the door.   Throw in a "meat eaters tax" and we could properly fund the healing of Mother Earth.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

re: Port Authority post

First of all, feral cats and stray cats are not the same thing. A stray is an animal who once was a pet.  A feral is an animal that was born into the wild, and generally has not had direct human contact.

It is true that feral cats are not necessarily adoptable. Their survival instincts are very strong.  Confinement is a big issue for them.

Those who give you the impression that the ferals all go to happy homes are lying and they know it.  That is why the feral cat programs advocate maintaining the population in situ. (But, feral cat society's do try to adopt out any and all ferals who seem to adapt well to an indoor environment.)

I have heard stories of feral cats being 'adopted' only to return -- even miles away -- to the rubble pile they called home.  

Even my two (ages ~1-1/2 and 2-1/2 years old), who I have raised from kittens and who are incredibly bonded with me, will run to the woods when they get scared.  They can be sleeping (upstairs) inside the house, hear a noise or voice that they don't recognize and run out of the house, climb down from the 2nd story porch and run 500 feet into the woods. Hopefully, in time, they will learn that their house is the safest place.

My neighbor's Maincoon Felix (~3-1/2 years old) was a feral that I raised since a kitten and she adopted at about 1 year old.  He has perfectly adopted to being an indoor cat with outdoor play times.  

Maincoons typically are very sociable (especially with humans), so I think that breed and age of the feral are contributing factors.

I would encourage people to adopt a feral with the understanding that they might require more time to transition: to trust and to adapt to the indoors.On Umbra on cats and birds posted 2 years ago 72 Responses

Now, onto an actual solution

This suggestion is guaranteed to (at the least) reduce the problem dramatically. Tips even in the anecdotes.

Human-bonded cats are very trainable -- responsive to the affirmation and the scolding of the beloved humans.  And, many/most cats prefer a routine. So:

Scheduled Outdoor Play Time:
If you wish to let your cats go outdoors, try to give them scheduled outdoor play time.  Start them with a schedule of an hour or two a day (weather appropriate) when you are home to watch them.  Best time to let them out would be right after you get home from work, as they will be anxious to spend time with you. Don't interact with them in the house too much when you first get home; save that interaction for the outdoors to keep them close to you. Just feed them, then let them out right away.  (If it won't encourage their hunting, give them just a bit of food first, then the rest when they come in, as an incentive to do so.)  They will spend the first 15 minutes pooping and bathing, but will be doing so in the great outdoors, which they so love.  Outdoor time is outdoor time to them.  They are not that particular about what they do when they have it.  Basically, you will learn what their huntless (/boredom) tolerance is, and they too will learn your tolerance for undesirable behavior.  

(This is no different than you would do with a child. You give them a designated amount of outdoor play time. And, should they misbehave during the alloted time, you bring them in.)

On-demand Call:
Get them use to coming on demand.  Call them in with a special bell, special whistle or sound, or kazoo for that matter. I have favored the "hooty hoo, hooty hoo" from the "Andy Griffith Show". Actually, something with a pitch range that they can hear long-range, but not so obnoxious to human neighbors is a good bet. Or, shake a treats container if they really respond to their treats. Something unique and discreet. A bell has worked well for me...and my cats. (Worked for Pavlov!) And, be consistent.  No matter where they are when play time ends -- even if at your feet -- sound their come-hither noise as you lead them into the house.

Also, you can use this device to keep them in your range of sight.  If they stray outside your acceptable range, call them back. (At first, while they are learning, don't bring them in immediately once you call them back; they won't understand. But, do call them back and give them a "stay in your yard" command or treat.  [Yep, had a cat who truly learned what that phrase meant.]

Their Play Time, Your Play Time:
During play time, go outdoors with them.  Read a book, rake leaves, garden, or whatever -- think of it as your play time too. From my experience, pets LOVE for you to be outdoors with them, and generally will want to stay close to you.

If you live in a rural area, take them for a walk.

Ultimately, whether you stay out with them the whole time or not, you at least should get into the habit of checking on them about every 15 minutes.  That is about how long it takes them to start wandering out of sight. In fact, you might find that after a while this tactic works better, as every time that you pop back out to check on them, they want to run over to say hello. A pleasant distraction.

Scold and Distract:
When you see them exhibit the slightest hunting gesture, give them a firm, loving scolding immediately and distract them with a natural outdoor toy -- a twig, leaves whatever.  Teach them that there are other natural outdoor toys better suited for their enjoyment.

Again from my experience, well-fed cats dont't hunt.  But, they do play.  If you can create a play experience at least as challenging/fulfilling as chasing a mouse, they no doubt will much prefer the play connection with you. Frankly, climbing a tree to chase a squirrel will be far too demanding when better options exist.

Return = Reward:
Each time that you do bring them inside, immediately lavish them with good-boy compliments and an obscene amount of affection, and give them a treat (if they respond to that), for coming in.

Indoor Fun and Views:
Do provide them with a good outside view -- preferably in a sunny spot -- with a place to sit at the window.  If they are hunters, I would not suggest having a bird feeder in their view, as it just teases them.  Besides, you should not have a bird feeder in your yard period. You then are just baiting the birds -- their death will be your fault.

Definitely introduce some variety into your home regularly. That will help keep them amused indoors. Perhaps, ocassionally put out an empty box, or something new, for them to explore or sleep in/on.  Don't just leave out the same cat toys; this won't work well beyond kitten stage. Change them out.

Modify as Needed:
You can modify the schedule as time goes on, if necessary.  You don't want to expand their privilege (although start generously); if anything, cut it back. But, don't modify it to suit your laziness.  If you get lucky, they will do it for you.  Seasonal conditions also might discourage their desire to be outdoors for too long.

More Fresh Air for You!
If you are thinking that this is too much trouble for you, you don't love your cats' freedom as much as you think that you do.  And, afterall, the benefit to you is...more outdoor time!  More fresh air, more exercise, more enjoyment of watching nature.

ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE:
#1: I am, at this writing, watching my neighbor's "indoor" cats enjoying the outdoors while he is home for lunch.  When his lunchtime ends, so too does their outdoor play time.  He also lets them go outside when he is doing yard work or something else outdoors.

#2: My other neighbor has this very intelligent, crafty 3-year-old Maincoon named Felix.  I took care of Felix as a feral baby, then she adopted him; I remain his backup caretaker.  I am well-familiar with his routines, which he adores. She lets him out only when she is home: early in the morning before she goes to work, and as soon as she comes home at night.  She keeps his routine constant, even on her days off.  He is out for about 3 hours each time, which happens to be his boredom threshold.  She does this barely-audible-to-human-ear "kisk, kisk, kisk" that he hears from far away and to which he comes blazing. It is his special noise, and he honors it.  (She, by the way, never stays outside with him. Even though he was a feral such a short time ago, I have never seen him hunt anything.  I have seen him chase a squirrel up a tree ocassionally, but with no seeming expectation of catching it.)  ...When my neighbor does have to tell Felix 'no' for something other than being out-right bad (such as if the stands at the door to go out beyond play time), she gives him this soft, very sad and sympathetic "noooo, noooo", to which he responds well.

#3: My beloved Spooky was content being indoors, but enjoyed her forays outside.  She was my faithful companion for 13 years, which oft times included living in places not safe enough for her to be outdoors.  One place that I lived had a small but lovely fenced backyard.  When I was home, I would leave the backdoor open so that she could come and go into the yard as she pleased.  In the evenings, after suppertime, she would stand at the backdoor and stare at the knob pathetically.  I would look into her little eyes, wag a 'peace sign', and say "two minutes; two minutes", then close the door back most of the way to keep out the mosquitos.  Sure enough, 2 minutes later, with a loud thumb, the door would come flying open as she burst through the door. My little Spooky wasn't the sharpest knife in the kitty drawer, but even she was easily trainable. On Umbra on cats and birds posted 2 years ago 72 Responses

Socks versus The Environment

Your post did make me laugh. I assume it was meant at a joke, but if not:

Heaven forbid that you should spend an extra 2 minutes picking out your socks, for the greater good.  

But, ya know, if you are that concerned about sock selection, you probably shouldn't waste your time with an issue like Climate Change.

On a lighter (heh heh) note:  Have a look at http://www.eartheasy.com/live_energyeff_lighting.htm (site randomly selected) for better information and better selection of CFLs.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

well...

The kangaroo is always moving forward.  Clever, if intentional.On From Timberlake to Tank posted 2 years ago 2 Responses

A few more:

1. I have an at-faucet shutoff valve on both my shower head and kitchen sink.  Similar to this: http://www.green-logic.net/rasashshoffv.html.  You can see that they are very inexpensive, quite adaptable, and you can buy them at local hardware stores too.

Is very easy/convenient to shut off while you are lathering, washing hair, brushing teeth, or soaping dishes.  Then, flip, and water again flows...wee!

Becomes very force of habit.

2. Also force of habit, is the reduced flushing.  As they say in the Islands:

"In the land of fun and sun, we never flush for number 1."  (PineSol is in plentiful supply!)

Flush right away for solids.  Otherwise, flush once per day for liquids. Be careful of paper use, and do remember to flush at night. :-/  ...And, yes, if you are expecting company, you could forego this method for that ocassion.

3. Put rain barrels at each of your downspouts for when rain does come.  Even if it is just a large garbage can, use it.  Pretty much just suitable water for landscape or exterior washings (car, lawn furniture), but still better than using potable water for that purpose.

4. If you cannot afford to have leaky faucets repaired (although do first check the cheap washer replacement), put a container beneath them to collect the drips and use that clean water.

Yes, but...

...when you factor in the extreme aggravation of trying to use the Amtrak website, train is no option.  Heck, I could walk to my destination faster than I could find information about the point-to-point travel on their website.  Well, then, I guess that Amtrak is better for the environment as it makes you prefer to walk.On Umbra on planes and cars posted 2 years, 1 month ago 8 Responses

Comedy Central clip correction:

The clip is now in "The Lineup".  Not sure its title, but the thumbnail shows Kucinich.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Now you've done it!

Mr. Bailo,

Don't you dare bring mathemetics into the grammatical equation!  Grammar is the one that I know.  Don't ruin it by mentioning, gulp, algebra.  ;-)

* Greta runs screaming.  "The nightmares, the nightmares. Oh horror, make them stop!" *

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Oxford, Oxford, he's our comma; if he can't...

I, too, am all about the Oxford comma, bro.  People who don't use it are just plain lazy, I tell you.  Yes, I'm talking about you: Dancer, Prancer, Donner, and Blitzen.  Yes, I said it, ", and Blitzen"!

Also, reeeeealllly hate the use of a non-quoted comma (or other punctuation) within a quoted term, title, or phrase within a sentence.

Example:  He said that he would meet us "at the bridge," but what he really meant is anyone's guess.

I prefer the British style on this.  If the punctuation mark is not part of the quoted material, keep it outside the quotes.

Now back to your regularly scheduled program.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

What the...

What?!  I cannot believe what I am hearing!  There are right wingers in paddling?!

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Welcome to my...

I climb into my Hummer, with leather interior, for a trip to Wal-Mart to buy some P&G household chemical cleaners and PVC outdoor furniture.  As long as I am here, I might as well pick myself up a gun and several rounds of ammo...in case I have to fend off insurgents.

Oh, I just can't resist grabbing a package of Oreo cookies [big tobacco product]. I'm so hungry.  Oops, I got crumbs on my new mink coat. Here, I'll just brush them off with my bootlegged copy of Halo 3.

Ah, shucks. I'm nearly out of gasoline after that 1-mile drive to Wal-Mart. I'll just pull over to Exxon.

"Greta, wake up. You were having a bad dream."On Umbra on green laundry detergents posted 2 years, 2 months ago 16 Responses

Disillusioned American for adoption

Would someone from New Zealand please adopt me already!  I love you long time.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

New PETA-inspired NRA...

Totally nude hot female model holding an assault rifle -- say with the gun butt covering the Brazilian wax and barrel pointing upward. (Gotta make it look phallic, ya know.)

HEADLINE OPTIONS:

1. "Got feminine protection?"
   
2. "Feminine protection for those heavy days"

3. "Feminine protection for those light days".
   
4. "Feminine protection...I never leave home without it."

Where is my pencil...

That's it, I'm sold.  Wolfy, I am penciling you in for PETA's next nude, slo-mo ad campaign.  ;-)On From Population to PETA posted 2 years, 2 months ago 101 Responses

On "not making it up"

You say that if you think that statement is an anomaly.  I can't tell you how many times upon someone learning I am a vegetarian will ask "so, do you eat fish?" (Other vegetarians tell me the same story.) As we have all learned today for the first time, a fish is not a vegetable.

Better still, this girl that I was working with one day says: 'I'm a vegetarian too.'  I said "Really?!"  She said something nearly precisely this idiotic: 'Yes. But, I eat fish and chicken.  And, ocassionally I eat steak.'  

It was at that point that I killed her, devoured her animal flesh, belched, and never felt bad about it. (No, not really.)On Umbra on vegetarian remorse posted 2 years, 2 months ago 38 Responses

Amen, Robin!

I had to correct a Wikipedia entry recently about vegetarianism.  It was a joke.  Their list of (literally) "Types of Vegetarians" included people who eat fish, people who eat all meats except fish, etc.

Vegetarian means "eats NO meats" not "eats some vegetables".

And "strict vegetarian" does NOT mean a vegetarian who sometimes eats meat.  It means a vegetarian who does not consume eggs or dairy, either.

You might be a vegetarian who fell off the wagon for one day, when you passed a Chick-Fila.  But, if you eat any animal flesh on a regular basis -- more than just on a holiday (and no that does not include Secretary's Day, Flag Day, Ground Hog Day, Take Your Child to Work Day...) -- you are NOT a vegetarian.

And, therefore, you should find or make up your own damn term for whatever it is that you think you.On Umbra on vegetarian remorse posted 2 years, 2 months ago 38 Responses

Suggestion for Grist

Given that so many people had well-founded arguments for certain colleges making the green list, Grist should consider a pre-article survey.  Invite readers to submit a school for consideration, with basis for that nomination.  Free research, Grist.  Of course, you would be expected to it supplemental to your own research.

Sadly, my own University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill did not make the list.  And I thought they were so innovative to offer polystyrene recycling bins in the food court 10 years ago.On 15 Green Colleges and Universities posted 2 years, 2 months ago 62 Responses

Film Pro concurs...for the most part.

Union = ethical work??  As an IATSE member of 20 years, I could tell you unbelievable stories of  unethical practices and corruption within IATSE.  While it might or might not apply to "11th Hour", don't assume that all non-union work is unethical or low paying.  Can be quite the opposite.  

It is true that IATSE, DGA, and SAG will negotiate individual low-budget contracts.  It also is true that union members can mutually agree to waive things like meal penalties to some extent. However, I can understand why producers would rather avoid the unions.

I have volunteered to work on documentaries, because they generally tell stories with which Big Hollywood would not bother, deal with social issues, and typically get little to no exposure or respect.  In other words, it is a fairly thankless job, but we documentarians/filmmakers do it because it is a calling. [By the way, no one has ever taken me up on the offer, generally because they can't imagine what to do with a 3rd person. grin]

However, as a producer, I never ask anyone to work for free.  If you pay them nothing, then you actually have asked them to pay you to volunteer. They must pay for gas to get to/from the location, at the very least.  And, probably have to take days off their job-job to work on the production.

It would be more appropriate to pay the low-budget union scale and invite crew to donate to a production fund or offer a nominal rate with true deferred payment of the balance.  In this case, "11th Hour" with Leo DiCaprio attached is a pretty sure bet for deferred payment.

Craig's List, ProductionHub.com, Mandy.com are littered (intentional word choice) with posts asking people to work for free or "deferred payment", which really means free.  The posters generally are inexperienced wannabees who don't understand paying dues (literally and figuratively), and have made no real attempt to raise the film budget.  

I get calls regularly from these wannabees asking me to be an Executive Producer.  Okay, what that really means is 'put up money'.  I have even gone so far as to spend an hour giving this wannabee ideas of where to apply for grant money, and other ideas of raising money, only to have him call me back a few days later with the same lame offer -- having forgotten that he ever called me.

Experienced crew work for reduced rates all the time on projects or with people they believe in.  But typically it is with experienced professionals who would absolutely pay them their rate when the money came in (even if it was on another project).

Perhaps Leo & Company have worked out something similar, but weren't able to articulate that in the press conference. On Leo's feel-good press conference is interrupted by a feel-bad question posted 2 years, 3 months ago 10 Responses

Another consequence...

with self-feeders is that they attract other animals, such as racoons and (in my neighborhood) peacocks, which people consider a "nuisance".  While I don't consider animals acting naturally a nuisance, neighbors might not agree.  And, they might have no problem calling animal services to trap them or even kill the animals themselves.

Feeding animals, large enough or easy enough to trap, sets them up for pending doom. Tolerant neighbors, and even you, move away.  New neighbors might not share your love of nature.

The idea of growing food for wildlife is the most humane solution. Also, keeps them from relying upon direct human interaction.

If you absolutely could not resist feeding wild birds, I think that you should consider putting out only what could be eaten in its entirety during a feeding period, leaving no leftovers behind.

This same strategy should be used when putting food outside for your pets, or feral cats.On Umbra on feeding birds posted 2 years, 4 months ago 19 Responses

What? Microsoft conspiracy?

Uh, Al Gore is on the Board of Directors of Apple.  Makes your Microsoft conspiracy (yawn) a bit tenuous.On A Grist correspondent sweats her way through Live Earth posted 2 years, 4 months ago 12 Responses

Oh, good grief, Charlie Brown. Where to begin.

Let me guess. The next Ilea report will claim that lazy shoppers who cannot be bothered to return a shopping cart are helping the environment.  Because, if they moved their lazy ass*s any more, they would have to eat more, and therefore more soil erosion and deforestation would occur to meet their caloric intake needs.

First of all, arguments like these:

"And (heresy alert!) the truth is that paper-vs-plastic is an astonishingly low-priority issue."

help nothing.  Like telling a father of 10 who has just been laid off, 'Hey, it could be worse. You could have cancer.'  

So, I propose a ban on pointless deflection.

Moral of the story: Sadly, most people need to be trained to be responsible.  And, training starts with small things and repetition.  Once people manage to make a responsible choice about a grocery bag (BYOB) -- something they use frequently -- they can graduate onto bigger things...like turning off the water when they brush.  :-)

Secondly, we all know that reuse is better than recycle. So, the question really should be plastic-paper-BYOB. And, the checkout people should ask that. If you present it this way, people will be trained to know there is yet a better option.

Thirdly, I take issue with that Ilea report.  A single paper bag holds way more volume than a plastic bag, if used correctly.  The checkout people will put 1 single item in a double plastic bag, and few items in each other bag. Whereas, a paper bag can be packed more efficiently.  Here's a tip shopper: Hold your hand under the bottom of the bag. Whee!

Moreover, at the end of the day, the shopper could put that brown paper bag in their compost bin, where it will decay quickly.  Whereas, a shopper might use that plastic bag as a trashcan liner, but that never diminishes its substance.

----

I too subscribe to the Ghandi tenet. Maybe things will not change globally in my lifetime, but I feel good about my choices. And, who knows, maybe someone will accidently catch a responsible act and be inspired.  And, so on, and so on. (Yep, been using my own bags for years.)

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Reply: Turning off computers

Gar,

This is exactly what I am doing. Even trying to get the local power company to help me -- in analyzing their current use and how simple measures would affect that usage...and the savings as a result.  (The company is privately held, so I will not have direct access to profit statements.  Although, since they are a cable company, there might be something public.)

Beyond the response to my dept. head's question, I intend to submit my 'report' to the executives through the companies "employees suggestions" program.

Sadly, the company appears to be very non-green in many other ways (e.g., no recycling program whatsoever, that I can see).  Has made me consider researching and writing an article about the environmental policies of the top 10 leading companies in my area.  See how the others do, as well.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Melamine

Considering that it is killing 4-legged children, right and left, I would look for a better alternative.On Umbra on plastic and kids posted 2 years, 8 months ago 13 Responses

Iraq Osama...Barrack Obama

REVISED: He is 'black', has a middle name "Hussein", a first name that rhymes with Iraq, and a last name that rhymes with Osama.  Don't see him winning the redneck vote.  

I'll look at this record, but he seems too slick to me.  Saw him on an Oprah show with his wife, and he answered mere conversational questions like a politician...skillfully crafting vague, safe responses.  So, he doesn't look like a 'refreshing change' to me.  

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Just between us...

Here's a hypothesis:  Al Gore is secretly running his 2008 presidential campaign through J. Edwards, who he intends to take as his running mate. Through Edwards, he can test run and refine the platform until he announces. Gore milks the soft media through his climate change project, while Edwards takes the hard media heat...afterall, as a vice-presidential candidate, Edward's 'dirt' would be rendered pretty meaningless.  They are quite a clever duo, that Batman and Robin.  Well played!

[Ya gotta admit, this would be the most brillant campaign strategy in the history of politics, and therefore deserving of the executive crown.]

...Well, if we aren't going to get the Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert ticket, this one works for me.

One man, one vote.

Greta

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

GreenDimes Sounds Greenalicious.

Not only is it time consuming -- considering that none of my requests have actually been implemented, so I have to constantly repeat the same process -- but for me it is quite stressful.  

I am so deeply in love with the Environment (who, by the way, ALWAYS brings me flowers!) that it  broke my heart to receive that 1st B&H glossy, 4-color, 200-plus-page catalog. With the 2nd and the 3rd, I was nearly homicidal or suicidal...I won't declare which.  Okay, slightly dramatic emphasis, but nonetheless indicative of my intense remorse.  And, with every repeated call to f'ing Dell (for a whole year and counting!), my blood boils.

Not to mention that phoning these people repeatedly (with lengthy hold times) costs me 15 cents per minute.

As a filmmaker, I had hoped to arrive at the Dell president's office with a truckload of unwanted catalogs and my camera, to lay a little truthiness on his/her ass.  Sadly, I cannot bear to let that many catalogs pile up.

So, if I ever have $3 a month to spare (read: documentary filmmaker), I will look into GreenDimes.

---

P.S. -- Do you know that these scumbag junkmailers actually mine your personal address from court documents?  I filed an appeal to a traffic ticket recently and started getting junkmail, as a result. (Your social security address is readily available through court docs too.)

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Forever halfway there...But still moving forward.

I liken the whole argument of carbon offsets -- is it or isn't it a worthwhile endeavor -- to that of household recycling.  There certainly is plenty of debate about whether the effect of this (proportionally) minimal amount of recycled material is worth the carbon/pollution/expense incurred to collect it.  And, there are those who believe that the recyclables go straight to the landfill anyway.  

However, the benefit of such a program, as with carbon offsets, is that it helps to shape peoples' values about environmental stewardship. Yes, perhaps some (okay, maybe many) slower than others.  The hope is that today the Smith family recycles at their curb, but tomorrow they implement a widescale recycling effort at their corporation.  Or that today Jane Entrepreneur buys carbon credits to offset her commute to work but tomorrow develops ground-breaking alternative fuel technology.

When it comes to the general public, we cannot get derailed by the measure of the result or the span of time between today and tomorrow.  (Truth is, it will always be a case of Zeno's Paradox.)  We need to just keep pushing forward...encouraging, not discouraging. If the general public were reading this forum, they'd have the perfect excuse to do nothing.  (Same argument as "why vote...it doesn't do any good anyway.")

As long as the program itself does not do more harm than good (yes, it is all relative), is it really such a bad thing?  

Greta

[DISCLAIMER: I am perpectually disappointed by the lack of character and conscience of the people that I see.  Clearly, I was momentarily abducted by aliens.]

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Giddy up!

I love this...awesome idea!  Now, let's not any of us get all self-righteous about this and reach for reasons to criticize. ["The electricity wasted to curl Jennifer Lopez' hair could power an entire African village for 10 years."] This really is quite a departure from the normal materialistic Holywood experience.  Heck, I would have thought it cool if TerraPass (or other company) would have offset merely the celebs big night.

And, if global warming becomes the hot trend ("environmental stewardship is the new black"), good deal! Hey, educate then convert...or convert then educate.  Whatever.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

Regretting vs. Offsetting

Great responses.  I agree with Kaela.  Many of us lead eco-friendly lifestyles but use offsets to make up for our necessary carbon-intensive activities. Heck, even if it is an airline flight for leisure.  People need that to keep a sense of balance in their lives.  (Even though I live 6 miles from one of the most beautiful and serene stretches of protected coastline, a trip to South of France would do much to rejuvinate my spirit and broaden my perspective.)

I would hate to see the 'offset industry' fueled by greedy capitalist and scammers, but it seems to me that whatever is done (often toward funding alternative energy) is a bonus that would otherwise not be done at all.  If not for the carbon neutral programs, I would be sitting around regretting the necessary evils (like commuting to work), whereas now I can offset a bit of regret.

www.NoPunProductions.com ~ AmericaTheGreen.org

A heartfelt spank you...

[cross posted]

Last year, I decided to "GoZero" with the Conservation Fund, because they planted trees as a means to 'offset', which appealed to me.  Made the transaction online and received a thank you email.  Several days later, I received in the postal mail a thank you letter...or should I say a 'spank you'.

What?!!  I just paid them to plant trees and they're already cutting them down to send me a stupid piece of paper in a paper envelope, delivered by carbon-generating postal vehicle(s).  ...Did I mention that I made my transaction electronically.  Sheesh.

Needless to say, I have taken my carbon-offsetting ways elsewhere.  Took reader Toolsmith's recommendation, and this quarter gave to SELF...no, the organization, not myself.On A guide to offsetting your carbon emissions posted 2 years, 9 months ago 7 Responses

Just do it!

Don't care when you do, or how you do it...just do it, Mr. Gore!  Run, Forrest..er, Al, run!On Check back for updates posted 2 years, 9 months ago 1 Response