In The News
Judy O'Bannon on Climate Legislation
The Hoosier State's former First Lady, Judy O'Bannon speaks out on climate and nature in a June 24th column in the Corydon Democrat. Among other things, Judy writes, "How about contacting Sens. Richard Lugar and Evan Bayh and encouraging them to get on board [with climate legislation]?" Take a look at this insightful piece from one of the state's true gems.
"...the nation is moving on without them."
Journalist Matthew Tully (Indianapolis Star) covered the recent energy summit in downtown Indianapolis, and produced this insightful column, entitled "Energy Summit was an echo chamber." We recommend it to you here in the Indianapolis Star.
Monthly Contribution Program Begins
In an effort to make it easier for our friends to support the work of the Hoosier Chapter, we are now offering a monthly donation option starting at $5/month. There are more options as well. Please take a look at these on our revised donation page. We appreciate your consideration.
We are now on Facebook
The Sierra Club Hoosier Chapter now has a Facebook group page. With this network we hope to expand our reach, communicate better with our public, and make some new friends and members. Won't you join us?
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Top Stories from the Indiana Chapter
The American Clean Energy and Security Act
Climate change legislation is moving quickly through Congress. The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act (also known as the Waxman-Markey bill or ACES), and the bill now moves to the Senate. Have you told your Senator how important global warming is to you?
Free Lakescaping Workshop
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Fish & Wildlife, Indiana Lakes Management Society, and Midwest Glacial Lakes Fish Habitat Partnership are offering a free, interactive workshop on lakescaping for wildlife and water quality. The program is at Goshen College on Saturday, August 1st. RSVPs are due by July 17th.
Great Lakes Congressional Members Call for BP Investigation
Nineteen Congressional leaders are requesting the U.S. EPA to investigate BP in northwestern Indiana. (No members of Congress from Indiana signed on to the letter.) The move comes after it was learned that BP's Whiting refinery emitted cancer-causing benzene at its wastewater treatment plant without proper air pollution control equipment for nearly six years.
U.S. Supreme Court Rules Against Coal Company
The Supreme Court ruled against Massey Coal, stating a $3 million "contribution" created bias. Massey is the single biggest practitioner of devastating mountaintop removal coal mining.
Coal Lobbyist Appointed to IDEM Position
Environmentalists are again concerned about the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and the administration of Governor Mitch Daniels. A long-time coal industry lobbyist has just been appointed to a key position with IDEM, while coal mine permits are pending. How can IDEM be objective?
IDNR to Provide Job Opportunities for Young Hoosiers
Are you between the ages of 16 and 24? Would you like to improve Indiana's parks, trails, and natural habitats? The Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps. will hire 2,000 young adults this summer to do just that. Apply now!
Student Summer Leadership Programs
The Sierra Student Coalition is gearing up for another packed summer of leadership trainings! There will be 9 Summer Environmental Leadership Training Programs (Sprogs) around the country -- CA, IL, NH, NM, OR, PR (Spanish speaking), TX, VA, and WA. These programs teach high school and college-aged youth how to be effective advocates and provide grassroots organizing skills. You won't want to miss it, so spread the word! Watch the YouTube video and then register on-line!
Recovery Watch
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been passed, and President Obama has promised transparency and accountability. The Hoosier Chapter would like to especially monitor how this money is being used in Indiana and surrounding areas. Help us to make sure this money is being used wisely and sustainably.
Questions Remain About IDEM's Handling of BP Air Permit Hearing
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management refuses to answer certain questions about the timing of a public hearing on BP's air permit. Who at IDEM was responsible for ignoring state law and providing inadequate notice of the hearing?
Make Healthy Choices for Healthy Oceans
Don't dine out or shop for seafood without the Monterey Bay Aquarium's seafood guide! Available free on their website, take these free printable pocket guides to the market or restaurant to make eco-friendly choices.
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