Opinion
What we need is common purpose that doesn’t involve war. We need to focus and concentrate on a national mission that will continue to keep America safe, secure and sustainable.
That “moon project” in my opinion needs to be the pursuit of personal energy independence. After all, “independence” is a core tenet on which our democracy was founded.
If we are to aspire to be a truly free society, then energy self-reliance is at the center.
The economic ramifications of energy supply disruptions will be crippling to the health of communities impacted by them.
This does not have to be the case.
We can become more distributed as an energy-producing nation creating plenty of new job opportunities in the process.
One simplistic idea might be government-subsidized solar photovoltaic modules.
This idea would go beyond rebates and tax credits. The government would produce and subsidize (finance) the cost of the widget (PV module) making the subsequent homeowner (business) investment irresistible.
This could be funded in a similar fashion to how the $25 US savings bonds were rolled out in the 1960s – just one idea.
Populist frustration is at an all-time high and congressional approval is at an all-time low. We need to find common ground badly.
I submit that we already have the ability (but lack the motivation-will) to improve the quality of our very own lives by investing in emerging technologies like PV and electric transportation.
We need to energize ourselves and our children if we are to survive a future of diminishing resources.
So I challenge all you couch-activists to take immediate personal action to evaluate your consumption patterns and work consistently towards breaking the chains of indentured utility servitude and begin living the energy-independent American dream!
Daniel Felperin lives in Cobb, Calif.
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- Written by: Daniel Felperin
The South Lake County Fire Sirens wish to thank all the local publishers for supporting our successful Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Nov. 19, held at the Middletown Fire Station on Highway 175.
We couldn't have done it without your help in spreading the word. We raised enough money at this event to help purchase one more life-saving piece of equipment for the South Lake County Fire Protection District.
Our sincere thanks are also extended to the 20 vendors who who participated, as well as the 20 Fire Sirens who worked hard all day long.
A special thanks needs to be extended to Santa Claus (Jack Barker) who came all the way from the North Pole to greet everyone and pass out candy canes.
Thank yous to all the South Lake County firemen who helped set up and tear down tables and chairs and then transport them to storage.
Appreciation is also extended to the residents of Lake County who came out in support and did a lot of Holiday shopping.
Thank you, Lake County for continuing to support the efforts of the South Lake County Fire Sirens at all of our events. Happy and Safe Holidays to you all!
Pat Hallman is president and Babe Vecellio is boutique chairman for the South Lake County Fire Sirens of Middletown, Calif.
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- Written by: Pat Hallman and Babe Vecellio
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