green initiative websites (continued...)

I've been really busy with work lately and have been building some posts offline, stayed tuned. In the meantime, I wanted to add a couple more sites to my list of sustainability and green initiatives.
In fact, I think this will make it an even 10... and who says that not everyone tries to conform.

1. Groovy Green: An ever evolving cool site that combines blogs, video, and a big link list about renewable energy and sustainable efforts.
2. The Institute for Market Transformation to Sustainability: An initiative to change the way things are manufactured and retailed by 2015. An ambitious goal.
3. Sustainable Products: A corporation that offers training programs and consulting about improving sustainable products and their manufacturing.
4. The Centre for Sustainable Design: British group that facilitates the discussions and practives of eco-design and environmental concepts.
   

Earth needs our help to keep on ticking and these are some of the people who are blazing the trail that we should all try and follow.

Okay, I can't conform to the strict structure of ten, so here's one more site for you...

5. American Wind Energy Association: The official website of the national trade association of all those invovled in developing, suppliers, and researchers in wind energy.

Well, that's all for now... it's late. START THE REVOLUTION!

green ski resorts

Picked up a copy of the February 2007 Men's Journal last night (it was easy to convince my wife to read it, with Matthew Fox on the cover)... anyway. Caught an interesting note in the "What's New" section on the Greenest Ski Resorts in USA & Canada. Sadly, my base lodge (Tenney Mountain) didn't make the magazine, but it's not even open this year, so that's not a surprise.

It's refreshing to see that the resorts are taking steps to conserve the environment and their livelihood. 22 out of 450+ resorts in North America offset their power with renewable energy credits. The article states that only 1 resort did the same in 2005. Let's hope that the number grows exponentially over the next few years.

Also of note in the article was the fact that most resorts do more damage to the environment than good. Only two have earned the gold standard (ISO 14001) for environmental management: Aspen and Jackson Hole. The eight other resorts mentioned in MJ are all working towards this globally recognized certification. Those resorts are: Sundance, Smuggler's Notch, Vail, Mammoth Mountain, Whistler, Moonlight Basin, Alta, and Jiminy Peak.

While some of their practices are very similar, each of them has taken unique steps that make their efforts seem so different. Several are harnessing wind power, either through their own turbines or buying wind power credits. Others have utilized geothermal power, building design regulations, upgraded machinery, and increased recycling efforts. Some of these efforts were initiated quietly over a decade ago.

The challenges moving forward in all environmental efforts is getting the people to sign off. If you ski or snowboard, remember that it can't last forever without some help. While many this season have had more than enough snow, others have had to go through the winter dealing with global warming causing no snow.

Ask your resort today what it is doing for tomorrow.

Running in the Freezing Cold

Today in the Boston Area it was was 6 degrees with a windchill of -6 or -9. Needless to say, it was cold outside... but I had my streak to see to. And I was excited because I had the roads to myself. Who else would be crazy to go out in this weather and run? ... I like that thought.

After a good four mile run, people asked if I survived. That's a tough question to answer. But then, someone commented about how running in the cold was unhealthy for me, more so than running every day. Well, it's just like me to disprove a statement.

Let me preface my argument by stating that I am aware of the hazards of running in cold weather: The increased chance of ice, dangerous driving conditions make the shoulder more threatening, decreased visibility from snow, hail, freezing rain (already dealt with that this winter), sand or salt kicking up from the streets. Finally, there is the chances of frostbite (after reading this I am pretty certain I got first degree frostbite, oops!) and hypothermia.

But my friend's statment was that breathing in too much cold air was detrimental to the lungs, causing damage to both the immune and the respiratory system. And many others comment about how they feel their lungs burning if they walk up stairs outside.

While many might feel the bitter bite, others can sustain their pace in minus 20 degrees fahrenheit. I don't know if I can, never tried, probably never will. The body warms the air before it hits the lungs, preventing the freezing effect that many fear. Because certain hearts pump stronger or faster than others, the blood circulates through the body, keeping the entire body safe from the ice creeping inside. While the skin and extemities are still susceptible to harm, it can be reduced through proper planning. Layering and maintaining a strong core temperature are two important keys, and wearing a hat will help keeping the heat in.

Returning to my rebuttal, one can maintain safer intake temperature by wearing a mask which warms the air that enters the lung. Sure, I can't handle a mask (I will wear one when skiing or running into a sharp headwind, but can't maintain even a bandana for more than 10 minutes)

But I believe that the most important thing to running in the cold is having the right mentality. That mentality can be several things: Tenacious, Prepared, Determined... as most people would think: Crazy.

In the end, I am willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish my dreams... and I am smart enough to know how to prepare to be crazy enough to see it through.

keeping it going. (valuable runner's world resource)

green initiative websites

I thought I would start writing a post about Pre, because I was looking for a little self-motivation and as I read what Wikipedia had to say about the man... I started thinking about sustainability and green initiatives, topics that has been on my mind for the last two-three years, but especially today as I had several conversations about them.

... I wanted to share some of my favorite sites, Here's my top six (Some are old & some are new to me, they are in no particular order, and I can't narrow it to five, I like to be different):

1. World Changing: International group of contributors sharing the latest in the tools, ideas, and models for a cleaner, better future.
2. Green Progress: News & Resources on environmental technology and green initiatives.
3. Inside Green Business: News and analysis of the greening of energy and manufacturing.
4. Sustainable Style Foundation: The latest trends in green materials, clothing, and style.
5. Ibex Wear: Cool outdoor clothing manufacturer based in Vermont, utilizes merino wool from New Zealand.
6. Green Streets: Official blog of Cambridge Green Streets Inititative.
   

Well, it's late and I don't have much to add now, but I'll keep reading comic books until I do.

Ray Gun: Makes People Want to Get Naked!!!

Late breaking news at CNN.com...

The US Military today unveiled a ray gun that shoots a beam that made targets feel as their clothes are going to ignite. The ray is a sudden burst of 130 degree Farenheit heat which cannot penetrate walls and is not lethal. The military hopes that the new technology will save lives and lower the casualties of war. Because the gun uses millimeter waves, it can only penetrate 1/64th of an inch of skin which only causes discomfort.

And while I am all for technology that can bring peace to people, I am a little surprised that Raytheon and the Military spent so much money to create a ray gun. It seems the stuff of science fiction... I know that I want a lightsaber, but I'm scared of the loss of limbs that would occur if we actually had the technology to do that. At least it cauterizes the wound.

Back on topic, if I ever have one... 2010 will put the Ray gun into production. Not a big news reader, but I saw this story over the RSS and decided I had to post, if for nothing else that to type the word ray gun over and over again. (It just sounds so funny.)

Until then, I'll read a comic book.

300 and counting...

Today I accomplished something that I've never done... 300 consecutive days running at least 2 miles. I salute those who have set the mark and hope that I can work towards their lofty height... Run Every Day

Sometimes the trip has seemed to fly by and other times it drags out. I swear that the period of time between 250 and 300 seemed to stretch on for eternity. It's an interesting notion, the fact that I can count every day by runs. But some of those days are more significant than others. My wedding, the first day at my new job, and a few others spring to the front. Then there is the days where I ran just to run, I was unmotivated and didn't want to lose the streak.

But then I think of the toughest runner that I never met. Pre. He has inspired so many runners both in his own generation, and in the many that have followed. Every individual who laces up and treads on asphalt, mulch, grass, snow... even cinders wants to draw the qualities that Pre embodied. The sheer tenacity, style, and Rock Star persona of a man who would never lose.

So I decided to suggest reading some of his and other runners' great quotes and adding two that have helped me through the slower periods. Not sure if I can credit them to anyone... like to think that they are timmy originals.

If you don't think that you can, you're wrong.

When you remove the ability to accept excuses, you acheive (insert goal here).

Until next time.

Real Online Hunting!?!

I heard about this story on the radio during my morning commute and before the work day really starts, I had to write something... WHAT!?!

Sure, there are ways to isolate yourself, in fact hunting can be considered one of those ways. Hike to a remote landscape, set yourself up in a tree and track a deer. But now the internet allows you to sit in your pajamas with a cup of coffee, track a deer a thousand miles away, and make a kill.

First, I am not a hunter, not interested, but not against it, provided that the hunter actually uses the animal to the fullest extent. I don't believe that you should hunt a deer just to get the ten point antler to hang on your wall. But that's my perogative.

Who are these lazy hunters who don't even want to do it right but rather sit at home? It seems to me that as we evolve technologically that the simpler things in life will become digitized and we will lose the qualities we had less than 10 years ago. People don't even go outside to ride a bike or run, we can watch TV while running in place, we can play poker and never see the face of the man/woman we are betting against, you want to call his bluff? He's sitting there laughing his ass off, his hand shaking slightly on his mouse as he anticipates getting caught or winning the pot. But you'd never know cause his avatar sits there unwavering.

It's a great world and maybe I am against hunting as it evidently is wasting the lives of nature and man... Thankfully legislation might force the people to go outside and get some fresh air.

Pysch: The Television Show

USA Network debuted the second season of Psych on Friday, January 19th. While I didn't watch it then, thanks to the gloriousness that is DVR, I still got to see it! and I had the ability to fast forward through the commercials. (Nothing like watching an hour show in 42 minutes)

I didn't really start watching the show until the first season was almost over... but had been anticipating the return ever since they closed the last episode by telling the female Police Chief that she shouldn't come back to work until January, as she had just delivered a baby. A very clever line, you have to see it for yourself.

The first episode didn't disappoint either. Guest starring Kurtwood Smith as a man suffering from early onset Alzheimer, Sean and Gus need to help him solve a murder that ties back twenty years. First, if you don't know who Kurtwood Smith is, I suggest checking him out as Red Forman in "That 70's Show" where he played the strict father of Eric, but not without his funny moments... a brownie eating session comes to mind.

But, as many of my posts are about, this time I urge you to watch the show because of the writing and the talented performances of the two leads, James Roday and Dule Hill. The two act as great contrast to one another. James playing the slick and bold Sean, and Dule playing the timid but rational Gus, and how a man pretending to be a psychic can get away with it.

The writing is both witty and clever, and while the premise seems far fetched it delivers in a funny and ultimately fitting way. While the CSIs and Cold Cases are solely dramas that make leaps of logic that baffle the viewer, they still take themselves seriously. Psych pokes fun at the others and itself by making leaps of logic in a strikingly bright and funny way.

I look forward to this season and anticipate that the stories and characters develop. I hope that the writers are up to the task, because if this show loses its fresh and interesting perspective it will lose its viewers... and that would be a shame. While Numbers is in repeats, Psych will be taking viewers, but it will be interesting to see who will win the smart "outside the box" crime shows will match up.

Once again, I thank the geniuses who came up with DVR so I can still watch both.

Superman: Emperor Joker

The trade paperback of the entire Emperor Joker storyline by DC Comics, was released this week and featured some of my favorite covers and my first exposure to the artist Ed McGuiness. Ed is a talented artist who really caught my eye pencilling the Superman/Batman series and Majestic. I would call his style very chiselled and a hybrid between a very cartoon style combined with classic big hero look. His work can be seen in the Thundercats mini as well as many other series. He has signed an exclusive contract with Marvel in May 2006, shifting away from DC, where much of his most notable work has been. His first work was a variant cover for Civil War #3.

Emperor Joker has taken control of the world and "written" in his own way. Rewriting history and the way the world thinks. It has become a completely irrational, much like the psycho genius of the title. It is up to Superman to make things right...

The story was most notably collaborated on by Jeph Loeb, who has produced a prodigious amount of work in comics, tv, and movies as well as Joe Kelly, a favorite partner of Chris Bachalo and his production company, Man of Action.

You've seen Jeph's work everywhere... He has written and produced on Smallville, Lost, and most recently Heroes. (I Love all Three!!) For DC he had two banner years, succesfully writing the Batman: Hush in 2003 and the Superman/Batman series, where he spun-off Supergirl into her own hit series (Who doesn't love Supergirl?)

Joe Kelly has written some of my favorite comic books, although not necessarily critically acclaimed. M. Rex was cancelled after 2 issues. Steampunk, however, was one of my favorite stories, telling the tale of a displaced man with a blast furnace in his chest in a altered Victorian Age. But his most contemporary hit is with Man of Action, with the telvevision series, Ben 10.

Ben 10 is a show about Ben Tennyson and his cousin, Gwen, and grandpa, Max, and his alien watch and the adventures that ensue. The watch allows him to transform into ten alien forms with all their respective powers as he fights threats both terrestrial and beyond.
(SPOILER: He has gained the power to transform into more than ten alien forms, the watch is called the Omnitrix)

The show really progresses well and each of the characters has evolved throughout the show while keeping each half hour episode accessible to first time viewers. In fact, shortly after its debut it was renewed for two more season as it was one of the most popular shows on the Cartoon Network. If you are a fan of comic books and Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau, Steven T. Seagle, or Joe Casey, I highly recommend taking a peak, no matter what age you are.

So while I started this post with a graphic novel I picked up, as I typed, I really delved intothe creators and their other works. All of which have left me very satisfied... I can't to go back and read some of them now!

Note: Thank goodness Wikipedia exists, it's a great resource of information for all things, especially for this range of topics. also, just discovered that they redid the Man of Action site, looking forward to catching up!

Personal Discovery... Long delayed.

I was traveling for work a couple weeks ago, before Christmas, and started to work on an entry while flying, but never got the chance to publish. I would like to continue on with those thoughts...

...I find that airplanes have really become a bit of a staging point for thoughts. A time where I can’t do all the other things I need to do, so I have the time to jot down thoughts.

I was updating my daily running log and started to go deeper than I usually do and now that I have an outlet to really stretch my writing “chops” I want to expand upon what I was hitting on in my log.

I began with the normal notes that I make, temperature, weather, time of day, distance and time of run. As I was elaborating, describing how I felt during, I started to think about the fact that it was so cold outside and way to early to be running. Then the comments that others have made began to come from the back to the front of my brain.

I have been identified as a “running freak” and people have cheered and jeered at me for running every day. While some people make comments because it is not their lifestyle, others because they are envious, the whole thing comes down to one question: How do I define myself?

Sure, people’s perception of me certainly adds flavor, but the reality is, I am my own person and I have to accept the decisions that I make, good or bad. Yes, I am a runner. But I am also an advertiser, a designer, and many other things. But it really struck me today. My most prominent identifier to the many people that I interact with on a daily basis is, I am a runner. I may have taken it to a level that people can’t comprehend or think is obsessive, but I don’t feel that is the case, I have become very in tune with my body and have to practice moderation.

But the reality of the situation is, I like it. I am at my very core, a runner. Whether I be running from something, running to something, or taking a break from my day. Even I don’t have the answer. It all revolves around my run. I can’t complete a day without “suiting up” to quote Barney from How I Met Your Mother Granted it does not involve me putting on a suit and tie but rather lacing up my New Balances and hitting the roads. I have scheduled it my work calendar. My colleagues know that come lunch time, I will be gone and off the radar. On those rare chances where I can’t go at lunch, sure enough I probably disappear for a half hour, returning, hair wet and occasionally still sweating. (I do take a shower)

Last Friday, I made a mistake, and it was what I would consider a large one. I was eased by many claiming that it wasn’t a huge one. But even if that was the case, I will not make the same one twice. And while their kind words did help. It wasn’t until I “suited up” and pushed my body to its limit that I was able to see past the mistake. I took a long lunch, and while some might use the opportunity to chat with a friend, have a coffee, whatever a stress reliever is to some. I opted to run 11 miles, which I don’t often do, in fact, I hadn’t run over 7 miles in a year’s time.

And as I kept going and going, I pushed past the anger I had for myself. That feeling of guilt and upsetness and the nauseating tightening of the stomach. The r...

...un cleansed me of all energy, because after a while there is only one thing you can do. Put one foot in front of the other until you make it home. And I still had the day to finish. But I persevered as one could tell, since I am tackling this much later in time.

But letting these thoughts sit for a small amount of time has given me greater clarity. People choose the identifiers for each other based on what they are not. By that I mean that where I work, everyone is a advertiser and everyone is a designer, but not everyone is a runner. Yes, there are some cyclists and people who go to the gym and runners throughout. But they are not the one who see me as a "runner" they see me as a "fellow runner" But my goal of going running everyday has drawn attention to myself... hey who doesn't like attention. And I am torn by the notion of one day my streak will end and I can't say that I have run XXX days in a row... and the fact that it is a difficult thing to do, pushing the body everyday without complete rest.

I salute all who have exercised everyday for however many years, never missing a day. And I urge you all to find something that you love and benefits you and try to do it every day...