The Channing Memorial Church Social Action Committee meets on the third Tuesday of every month (with the exception of July) at 7PM in the Channing House Library. All members and friends of the church are welcome to attend. For more information, contact the committee chair at socialaction@channingchurch.org or call the church office at (401) 846-0643.


Monday, September 28, 2009

Step It Up/Cool Aquidneck Island Update #26

Hi, Green Friends,
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I've been continuing my totally unscientific survey of coffee shops that give discounts for bringing your own mug. (All my research has been done on the Island.) If a shop isn't listed, it's because I haven't been there yet. Here's the latest:
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The best discounts I've found are at Empire Tea and Coffee, Broadway, Newport (more than .25 per cup) and Custom House Coffee, Aquidneck Ave., Middletown and West Main Rd., Portsmouth (they'll fill your mug--usually the equivalent of a medium or large coffee) for the price of the small size. Starbuck's gives a .10 discount. So far, Dunkin Donuts, Ocean Coffee Roasters and Bliss Cafe haven't caught on to the wisdom of this discount, but why not bring your mugs wherever you go, and thank those who have, while encouraging those who haven't to give it a try? While you're at it, ask them if they serve fair trade coffee. Feel free to contribute your experience to this important research venture.
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Thanks to Arthur Erhardt who shared an article on the power of houseplants to fight indoor ozone pollution. (SOURCE: American Society for Horticultural Science.) Briefly:

  • Ozone can infiltrate from outdoors, and can also be released by ordinary copy machines, laser printers, ultraviolet lights, and some electrostatic air purification systems.


  • Because people in industrialized countries spend as much of 80% to 90% of their time indoors, indoor air pollution has been ranked as one of the world's greatest public health risks.


  • A research team from the Pennsylvania State University tested three common house plants--snake plant, spider plant, and golden pothos-- and found that ozone depletion rates were higher in the chambers that contained the plants than in the control chambers without plants, but there were no differences in effectiveness among the three plants. They chose the plants because of their popularity, primarily due to their low cost, low maintenance, and rich foliage, and their reported ability to reduce other indoor air pollutants.

And your rain barrels can provide the water for them! And your worm farm and compost bin can fertilize them!
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All our events (and lots more great stuff) are listed at http://www.coolaquidneckisland.org/ soon after we get the information.
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Events: 
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Tuesday, September 29, 2009
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AI Transportation Study's first public workshop 

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Time: 6 to 9 PM
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Location: Middletown Town Hall, E. Main Rd.
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Please be sure to join us on September 29 for the first public workshop, 6 to 9 pm, of AIPC's newest project, the Transportation Study. This study marks the first time the entire island traffic system will be studied as an integrated unit. This ground-breaking $500,000 study (funding provided by FHWA, SPP, RIDOT) will take a macro and micro look at all of the major and feeder roads for traffic flow, safety and multi-modal access. It will impact the entire Island economy.
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The study is results-oriented and will produce a state project listing for short, medium and long-range transportation construction and redesign projects on Aquidneck Island. It will help direct additional federal and state monies into Island projects that will improve the entire transportation system.
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A key to success for the project is public participation, which includes an interactive web site (Transportation Study Website), opportunities for stakeholder interviews and input and at least four public workshops. Everyone is invited to become a part of the solution to what we all agree is a significant quality of life challenge (traffic) for Aquidneck Island.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009

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Climate Change and Justice
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Time: 10 to 10:50 AM
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Location: URI Kingston, Memorial Union, Atrium II
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This workshop provides a scientific overview of the causes and impacts of climate change and makes the point that climate change raises challenging ethical questions, especially related to social justice: The first people to suffer from climate change are those who have contributed the least greenhouse gases, for example people in Africa as well as the indigenous people in small island states and in the Arctic regions. The talk concludes with ideas how we as individuals can express fairness and justice in our lives by reducing our own carbon footprint.
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For more information contact Christine Muller at chmuller@etal.uri.edu. This event is part of URI’s Diversity Week
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Thursday, October 1, 2009
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*NEW* ELECTOBERFEST (Clean Water Action)

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Time: 6 PM

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Location: Hot Club, 575 S. Water St., Providence
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Your support for our political programs is a long-term investment in preventing pollution, building an economy based on environmentally safe jobs and businesses, and empowering all Americans to take charge of our environmental future. Say YES to help educate and mobilize voters to elect pro-environment candidates!
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Donation: $25 and up. They're tax-deductible, and donations up to $2500 will be matched by another donor. Call to make your donation ahead of time and RSVP to: (401) 331-6972. web site: www.cleanwateraction.org/ri.
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Green Drinks Newport
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Time: 5:30 PM
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Location: Max's Market, 469 Thames Street, Newport
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Join us for this networking opportunity for professionals and volunteers in the environmental field. Special guest speaker, Sarah Kite, Recycling Manager for Rhode Island Resource Recovery (RIRRC).
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Saturday, October 3, 2009
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*NEW* Eco-Depot Household Hazardous Waste Collection 

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Time: 8 AM to 1 PM

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Location: City Yard, 80 Halsey St., Newport
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This free program, sponsored by Newport's Clean City Porgram and RI Resource Recovery Corp., is open to all RI residents. Appointments will be accepted until Oct. 2, at 942-1430, x241. Information on substances accepted is at www.rirrc.org. Computers and electronics, but not TVs, can also be dropped off that day without an appointment. (Newport residents can recycle electronics at the City Yard any day during regular business hours.)
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Seminar: Introduction to Wind Power 

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Time: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
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Location: Knight Campus, CCRI, Warwick
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To address a special interest from the public, CCRI is offering special non-credit informational seminars about wind and solar energy. If yu're looking to learn more about alternative energy, this course will teach you the basics. 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, $45 to enroll, plus $5 course fee. More information: www.ccri.edu/cwce, or call 825-2293.
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35th Annual Harvest Fair 

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Time: 9:30 AM to 5 PM

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Location: Norman Bird Sanctuary, 3rd Beach Rd., Middletown
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A classic! October 3 and 4. Activities, games, crafts, home and garden contests (flowers, produce, food,) scarecrow contest, "General Store," vendor booths, and lots more! Admission charges. Please leave dogs at home!
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Monday, October 5, 2009
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Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update workshop-Waterfront 

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Time: 6 to 8 PM
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Location: City Hall, Broadway, Newport
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Share your goals and priorities for promoting "the health and vigor of the city." Join a lively discussion about updating our Land Use Plan. The committee wants to hear your viewpoint. This second of three topical discussions addresses the waterfront.
Posted by at

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Letter from Senator Jack Reed on Health Care Reform

Received this response from Senator Reed to a letter I wrote expressing my concerns (http://mypropheticimperative.blogspot.com/2009/08/open-letter-to-president-and-democratic.html).

Tom Beall

Dear Captain Beall:

Thank you for contacting me regarding health care reform. I appreciate hearing from you.

I share your concerns about the current state of health care in this country. Today, the costs of care and access to care are urgent issues in our state and our nation.

In the face of the current economic crisis, states are struggling to pay for rising health care costs and cope with increasing enrollment in programs like Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). For this reason, I was pleased to support H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which temporarily increased the federal funding match for state Medicaid plans. Additionally, I supported H.R. 2, the CHIP Improvements Act, which preserved health coverage for 6.7 million children and will expand coverage to an additional 4.1 million children, including approximately 12,000 in Rhode Island.

I believe that comprehensive health reform is necessary to ensure long term economic stability. Reforming our health care system is also a crucial element of starting to clear the mountain of debt run up by the Bush Administration. As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, I have been actively engaged in drafting common-sense legislation that will provide affordable health coverage options, a cost-effective counter to ever increasing health insurance costs. Most Rhode Islanders are insured through their employers. Health insurance reform will not change that. But people who are uninsured or underinsured will be able to purchase coverage from a menu of options that fit their needs and budget. Every American deserves access to stable coverage that cannot be taken away if they become ill or unemployed.

The bill also includes a nonprofit public health insurance option that would be available to all Americans who want and choose that option. This new choice combined with other necessary improvements to our health care system aims to reduce the cost of health insurance for families, businesses, and taxpayers, enhance the quality and coordination of care provided, and invest in preventing illness from occurring in the first place. As one of the earliest proponents of a public health insurance option, I joined my colleagues in sending a letter to the Chairmen of the HELP and Finance Committees in support of such an option for insuring all Americans. I have enclosed a copy of this letter for your review. I am also an original cosponsor of S. Res. 156, which expresses the sense of the Senate that reform of our nation's health care system should include the establishment of a public health insurance option. The inclusion of such an option would keep the insurance companies honest and guarantee a competitive choice for consumers.

You may also be interested to know several of my bills and proposals were included in the health reform bills moving through the HELP and Finance Committees including: comprehensive coverage of and access to immunization for children, adolescents, and adults; a standardized, quantitative format for relaying information to consumers on drug and device labels and advertisements; grants to encourage the co-location of mental and behavioral health services with physical health care services; and programs to enhance the existing health care work force.

On July 14, 2009, the HELP Committee approved its version of health reform legislation. I voted for this bill because it is time for the status quo to change. I spoke on the Senate floor in favor of this legislation on July 24, 2009. I have included a copy of my remarks for your review. In addition, you may watch my speech online:


I also authored an op-ed on concerning health reform that was published in the Providence Journal, which you can read at:


You may be interested to know that throughout this debate I have met with concerned Rhode Islanders across the state and in my offices. I have spoken with constituents at senior centers, business leaders at chambers of commerce, and patients and doctors at community health centers and other health settings. In addition, on August 18th and August 26th, I co-hosted Community Dinners with Senator Whitehouse in Rhode Island to discuss health reform. I also participated in a live web chat on this issue hosted by the Providence Journal on August 25th, which you can view at:


You can learn more about the Affordable Health Choices Act and track the progress of this legislation on a new Health Care Reform webpage accessible via my website, http://www.reed.senate.gov/.

No one in this country should be forced to go without health care coverage. You can be assured that I will continue to keep your thoughtful comments in mind as work on health reform legislation progresses.

As always, do not hesitate to contact me if you have further comments or concerns about this or any other matter.

Sincerely,

Jack Reed
United States Senator

Posted by at

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

New Name, Renewed Passion

At our September meeting, we changed our name to Channing Memorial Church Social Action Committee and adopted the following mission statement:

The Mission of the Channing Memorial Church Social Action Committee is to coordinate and support the social action activities of individual members of the committee, and to lead Channing’s social justice advocacy and action in the larger community, as well as to be a voice for social action education and advocacy within the Congregation.

We have also set up a new web site on which you can keep up to date on the committee’s activities as well as events and activities of social action interest. Please visit the site at: http://channingsocialaction.blogspot.com/. If you would like to post information on the site, please contact me at socialjustice@channingchurch.org. Finally, our September meeting, we focused primarily on setting goals for the new year. You can read these on the website at: http://channingsocialaction.blogspot.com/2009/09/social-action-committee-adopts-goals.html. If you would like to be involved in any of these activities, please let me know.

One of the key activities in which we participate is the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry of Rhode Island (UULMRI). Betsy Dees, George Warch, and Al Benson have been very involved and act as our connection with this group. Because of Betsy’s and George’s work in identifying which state legislators served Channing members and in organizing evening roundtable discussions with those legislators, we had a definite and positive impact on last summer’s legislative session including enactment of a Fair Tax capital gains bill which will provide needed revenues for important social justice programs in the state. UULMRI is busy developing its agenda for this year. If you are interested in working with this group to promote social justice in Rhode Island, please contact us at socialjustice@channingchurch.org.

The next meeting of Channing’s Social Action Committee is Wednesday, October 14th, 7PM in the Channing House Library, Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport, RI. Please join us and share your ideas, your passion, and your commitment to the cause of peace, justice, and respect for all people and our planet, and positive change within our community and the world.

Tom Beall, Social Action Co-Chair
Posted by at

Prominent Christian Leaders Support Comprehensive Middle East Peace

Link to this page to read a press release on a "Letter in Support of a Comprehensive Middle East Peace:  An American National Interest Imperative."

UUA President Rev. Peter Morales is one of the signers.
Posted by at

News from UUA Advocacy and Witness

Dear Friends of Justice,

We wish everyone L'shana Tovah, Eid Mubarak and hope you had a blessed autumnal equinox. In this week's Advocacy News, a call to action to end workplace discrimination and new resources for Standing on the Side of Love.

In faith and for justice,

Orelia, Rowan, Kat, Audra, Susan, Rob, and Meg

Act Now to Pass the Employment Non Discrimination Act!

Contact Congress today to tell your Representatives that you support the Employment Non Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2009, which guarantees basic employment protections for bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender workers.

On Wednesday, September 23rd, the House Committee on Education and Labor held hearings on ENDA (H.R. 3017/S. 1584). Coming out as people of faith who support ENDA is crucial - it shows our elected officials that as Unitarian Universalists, we stand on the side of love for equality AND religious freedom. In over half of U.S. states, it is still legal to fire or refuse to hire or promote someone simply because of who they are or who they love. This is outrageous and unacceptable, especially during the current economic and employment crisis.

ENDA's opponents say that it interferes with their religious freedom, but we know that this is not true. ENDA respects the protections for religious institutions afforded by the First Amendment and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act while ensuring that bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender people are protected from baseless discrimination in the workplace.

Tell your members of Congress that protecting all workers equally is a matter of justice. Ask them to co-sponosor and support the Employment Non Discrimination Act of 2009.

Contact Congress today!

New Congregational Resources for Standing on the Side of Love

The Standing on the Side of Love Congregational Toolkit is here!

It includes suggestions for how to: Organize Your Congregation; Build Community Partnerships; Take a Public Stand; along with key messages, media tips and more! A downloadable PDF is posted on the site.

Join the Weekly SSL Calls!: Friday, 1 PM EDT

Standing on the Side of Love Campaign and UUA Staff will be holding weekly 45 min. web-cast conference calls to share resources and best practices with people coordinating Standing on the Side of Love activism in their congregations. Calls will include how to get your congregation involved, how to develop a local campaign, how to use new media, how to bring SSL to interfaith colleagues and allies, and more.

The first call will be Friday, Sept. 25th.

To join the call(s): register here.

Posted by at

Channing Interweave Event: Telling Our Stories, this Friday

Just a reminder that our first Interweave event will be taking place this Friday, September 25th.

It will be held at the Empire Coffee House, 22 Broadway, Newport at 7pm.

We hope to see you there. It should be fun!
Posted by at

Monday, September 21, 2009

Step It Up/Cool A.I. Update #25

Hi, Green Friends,

Your Step It Up crew will be on Art Berluti's show Monday morning at 11 AM, on WADK, 1540 AM. Our guest will be Ellen Pfeiffer, National Grid's Project Manager for "Energy Action: Aquidneck and Jamestown." We'll be talking about National Grid's residential efficiency programs, and the Neighborhood Energy Challenge, kicking off at the International Day of Climate Change on October 24.

We've just learned that our own Tony Wallace Ciany will be presenting at the Bioneers by the Bay conference in New Bedford in October. Her topic is "Graceful Exit: How to Leave Your Campus Lean and Green When the School Year Ends." As soon as we can start wedging October events into this update, we'll give you more information about this wonderful conference. Meanwhile, you can read about it at: http://www.connectingforchange.org/program-workshops.html.

I'll be quiet now, to make space for more events.

Channing's Green Congregation Chair

Monday, September 21, 2009

*NEW* The Age of Stupid, Docudrama, one-time-only showing

Time: 7:30 PM

Location: Warwick Showcase Cinemas, 1200 Quaker Ln, E. Greenwich

This powerful "docudrama" is set in the year 2055, after global warming has done massive damage to humanity. Oscar-nominated actor Pete Postlethwaite stars as a historian who "looks back" on real footage from 2008 to try to answer the question, "why didn't we stop climate change while we had the chance?"

There will also be a simulcast of a Hollywood-style premiere event live from a solar-powered tent in New York City to over 700 theaters in the U.S. and 50 other countries. Featured celebrities include Gillian Anderson, Heather Graham, and Moby. MTV's Gideon Yago will interview Nobel Peace Prize recipient Kofi Annan, environmental scientist James Hansen, and The Age of Stupid director Franny Armstrong. Ending the night will be a special, acoustic performance by Radiohead's Thom Yorke.

Purchase advance tickets by clicking on: http://www.moveon.org/r?r=59626

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Apeiron Inst. 2nd Annual RI Sustainable Schools Summit

Time: 8 AM to 4 PM

Location: URI Providence Campus, 80 Washington St.

Rhode Island Schools: Taking Strides to Sustainability Attention Superintendents, Administrators, Teachers, Students, School Board Officials, Facilities Managers, Principals, Parents, and Community Members:

Join the Apeiron Institute for this FREE program as we take an in-depth look at some green initiatives in local schools and discuss ways to integrate environmental sustainability in school environments, school food systems, and curricula.

Register for free at http://www.apeiron.org/

*NEW* Obama Administration Ocean Policy Task Force Public Meeting

Time: 4 to 7 PM

Location: RI Convention Ctr., Ballrooms D&E, Providence

The Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force, led by White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Nancy Sutley, consists of senior-level officials from Administration agencies, departments, and offices. The Task Force is charged with developing a recommendation for a national policy that ensures protection, maintenance, and restoration of oceans, our coasts and the Great Lakes. It will also recommend a framework for improved stewardship, and effective coastal and marine spatial planning. The public is encouraged to attend and an opportunity for public comment will be provided.

Presenters: Chair Nancy Sutley, White House Council on Environmental Quality Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Vice Admiral David P. Pekoske, Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard

Dr. Dora Hughes, Counselor for Science & Public Health, Department of Health and Human Services Associate Deputy Secretary Laura Davis, Department of Interior

Note: Public comment can also be submitted online at: www.whitehouse.gov/oceans

Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update workshop-Land Use

Time: 6 to 8 PM

Location: City Hall, Broadway, Newport

Share your goals and priorities for promoting "the health and vigor of the city." Join a lively discussion about updating our Land Use Plan. The committee wants to hear your viewpoint. This second of three topical discussions addresses land use.

*NEW* Will the AI Transportation Study be planet-friendly?

Time: 7 to 9 PM

Location: Stookeys', 179 Coggeshall Ave., Newport

Aquidneck Island long-term transporation options: Here's a once-in-a-decade chance to help design a 21st century transportation system that dramatically reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

The Aquidneck Island Planning Commission is just beginning a 2-year $500,000 Transportation Study for the island. This gives us a great opportunity to lead the region and the nation toward low-impact ways of moving about in our daily lives.

The goals of the study, although encouraging, do not specifically mention CO2 pollution. We will be looking at the study plan and considering how we can urge the planners to adopt 21st century ideas that protect the planet, not just 20th century recommendations to accommodate more vehicles.

We'll also be considering what we might say at the study's first Public Hearing on September 29th. You can read the study description at http://www.aquidneckplanning.org/AIP%20Transport%20study.html and linked pages.

Please join us for coffee, tea, dessert and an important discussion.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

The Economical Historic Home: Energy Efficiency Basics for the Old House Owner

Time: 9 AM to 12:45 PM

Location: Philip Walker House, 432 Massasoit Ave., E. Providence

Do you love your historic home, but hate the high heating bills and wasted energy? Learn how to make your old house more energy efficient without losing its historic character. This hands-on workshop, a joint project with Preserve RI, Historic New England & Providence Revolving Fund, will discuss insulation, weatherizing doors, window repair, retrofitting for renewable energy, tax credits, and more. Reserve your space today! www.newportrestoration.org/calendar/details/12973-the_economical

Space is limited—reserve early! $15 for members of Preserve RI and Historic N.E. $25 for non-members.

Providence Sustainability Festival (Apeiron Institute)

Time: 10 AM to 6 PM

Location: Burnside Park, across from Kennedy Plaza, Providence

The Apeiron Institute for Sustainable Living will hold its first Providence festival, http://apeiron.org/slf2009/index2.html, a free event. It will include many of the features of the Coventry festival, providing numerous resources through its participating vendors, workshops and exhibits.

Working with the City of Providence, the festival will also highlight “green job” opportunities. We are seeking significant community input and welcome businesses and organizations with a green presence in Providence to participate in the festival, either as exhibitors, presenters, or organizers.

For more information, contact Apeiron at info@apeiron.org or call 401-228-7930.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

*NEW* AI Transportation Study's first public workshop

Time: 6 to 9 PM

Location: Middletown Town Hall, E. Main Rd.

Please be sure to join us on September 29 for the first public workshop of AIPC's newest project, the Transportation Study. This study marks the first time the entire island traffic system will be studied as an integrated unit. This ground-breaking $500,000 study (funding provided by FHWA, SPP, RIDOT) will take a macro and micro look at all of the major and feeder roads for traffic flow, safety and multi-modal access. It will impact the entire Island economy.

The study is results-oriented and will produce a state project listing for short, medium and long-range transportation construction and redesign projects on Aquidneck Island. It will help direct additional federal and state monies into Island projects that will improve the entire transportation system.

A key to success for the project is public participation, which includes an interactive web site (Transportation Study Website), opportunities for stakeholder interviews and input and at least four public workshops. Everyone is invited to become a part of the solution to what we all agree is a significant quality of life challenge (traffic) for Aquidneck Island.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

*NEW* Climate Change and Justice

Time: 10 to 10:50 AM

Location: URI Kingston, Memorial Union, Atrium II

This workshop provides a scientific overview of the causes and impacts of climate change and makes the point that climate change raises challenging ethical questions, especially related to social justice: The first people to suffer from climate change are those who have contributed the least greenhouse gases, for example people in Africa as well as the indigenous people in small island states and in the Arctic regions. The talk concludes with ideas how we as individuals can express fairness and justice in our lives by reducing our own carbon footprint.

For more information contact Christine Muller at chmuller@etal.uri.edu. This event is part of URI’s Diversity Week: http://www.uri.edu/mcc/DiversityWeek/2009/index.php
Posted by at

Thursday, September 17, 2009

From UUA Advocacy and Witness: Call for Congregational Study/Action Issues (CSAI) Proposals!

Congregations and Districts are encouraged to submit proposals for Association-wide study/action for 2010-2014. Proposers within a congregation or district should select a topic that reflects Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Principles and will warrant four years of study and action (only one proposal may be submitted by a congregation or district). Proposers should draft the proposal following the format requirements of the Proposer's Guide. Then the proposers should request their board of trustees, congregation or district to approve the proposal.
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The proposal must be received by the Commission on Social Witness by October 1, 2009, either online, via fax or U.S. mail.
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The present two approved CSAIs are 2006-2010 Peacemaking and 2008-2010 Ethical Eating: Food and Environmental Justice. Up to 10 CSAI Proposals may be submitted to the Congregational Poll (which opens on November 15, 2009). Make one yours. The final selection will be made by the delegates of the 2010 General Assembly in Minneapolis. Contact socialwitness@uua.org with any questions.
Posted by at

From UUA Advocacy and Witness: Support A Strong Climate and Energy Bill

Now is the time to stand behind a strong clean energy jobs bill that reduces our dependence on fossil fuels, creates jobs and job-training in local communities, and provides a much-needed transition to a clean, green economy.
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Inclusion of two key provisions from the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) would provide employment and training opportunities in green construction in communities who have traditionally been left behind and would allocate 0.75% of allowance value, about $860 million, to the Green Jobs Act. Workers affected the worst by the recession and by environmental degradation would get the training and support they need for green-collar jobs.
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The Senate is grappling with the most important environmental legislation in a generation right now. Please take this opportunity this week to tell your senators to support this important legislation.
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For those of you who might not have seen it, Van Jones spoke for the first time since resigning from his White House position. As you might expect, he urged us to work to pass a strong climate change/clean energy bill with good, green jobs. Contact your senators. Do it for Van!
Posted by at

Monday, September 14, 2009

"Visible Vigils" for Health Care Reform

The next two months will be critical in the shaping of health care bills in the U.S. Congress.If you want to let our Congressmen know that Rhode Islanders support meaningful health care reform there are actions you can take. Contact your Senators and Congresmen, Also "Visible Vigils" will be held across the state every Tuesday evening between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. between September 15 and November 17th. During the vigils, supporters of "Medicare-For-All" (also known as "single payer" or at least a very strong public option) will gather in small groups hold signs and banners to ensure Congressmen and the media know that Rhode Islanders want real health care reform. If you have questions, contact Sally Hanchett at socialjustice@channingchurch.org.  The locations include Bristol, Barrington, East Providence, Providence, Warwick and Westerly.
Posted by at

Step It Up/Cool AI Update #24

Hi, Green Friends,
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Lots of new events added this week, so please check them out. Help celebrate, on Monday at 11:30 AM, of the newly completed restoration of the Gooseneck Cove wetland.
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Then have your say about Newport's Comprehensive Land Use Plan and environmental aspects of Newport's proposed elementary school.
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And watch this space for information about International Day of Climate Action-Aquidneck Island at Easton's Beach (right in the middle of our signature photo, above) on October 24. Check us out at http://www.350.org/node/6260. Ours will be one of more than 1400 events in 111 countries (so far.) The theme statewide is sea level rise, a crucial topic for our island. The Newport Energy & Environment Commission is the lead sponsor, but we'd love to make this a true island-wide event. Plans are just starting, so hop on board and help plan this important event.  We'll be kicking off our Energy Challenge that day--something positive we can all do to fight climate change.
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Kudos to Aquidneck Island Land Trust for protecting yet another strategic piece of the Bailey's Brook watershed--6.6 acres off Valley Road.
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Monday, September 14, 2009
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*NEW* Celebration of Gooseneck Cove salt marsh restoration project completion
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Time: 11:30 AM
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Location: Gooseneck Cove, Hazard Rd., Newport
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This project replaced culverts on Ocean Avenue and Hazard Road, and removed a defunct dam in the center of the wetland system. These barriers had altered the natural flow of tides into and out of the marsh, causing marsh plants to die off, and the surface of the marsh to erode. By removing these barriers, this restoration has improved water quality and growing conditions for native marsh plants and enhanced habitat of the marsh and tidal creeks for fish such as striped bass and bluefish, shellfish, waterfowl and shorebirds. It will also reduce flooding and make the marsh more resilient to storm damage.
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Tuesday, September 15, 2009
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*NEW* Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update workshop-Community Services
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Time: 6 to 8 PM
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Location: City Hall, Broadway, Newport
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Share your goals and priorities for promoting "the health and vigor of the city." Join a lively discussion about updating our Land Use Plan. The committee wants to hear your viewpoint. This is the first of three topical discussions, and addresses community services.
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Wednesday, September 16, 2009
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*NEW* Environmental Issues-New Elementary School
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Time: 5:30 PM
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Location: Career & Tech Center, Old Fort Rd., Newport
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Laura Wernick the architect from HMFH will be available at the administration offices at the Career and tech center this Wednesday at 5:30 to discuss the environmental issues of our new school construction. If you have any questions please call at 847-2100 x 212
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Saturday, September 19, 2009
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International Coastal Cleanup
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Time: 9:00 to 11 AM
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Location: Easton's Beach, Newport
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This event is run by the Ocean Conservancy Group and hosted in RI by the Audubon Society and Clean Ocean Access. We're proud to lead the efforts at Easton’s Beach for the 4th straight year, as Clean Ocean Access marks the start of its 4th year!
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Park in the west-lot. Wear sturdy shoes and bring your own gloves, we’ll provide the rest. This is a rain or shine event, unless we have a hurricane!
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Ocean Conservancy International Coastal Cleanup:
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Clean Ocean Access: http://members.cox.net/cleanoceanaccess/
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Sunday, September 20, 2009
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Friends of Tiverton Library Annual Meeting
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Time: 5:00 PM
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Location: Amicable Church, 3804 Main Rd., Tiverton
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Ken Filarski, master planner, architect, LEED AP, board member and chair of the Sustainable Cities Committee, RI Green Building Council, will address the impact of a green municipal buiilding - the library - on the town, as a model, as an economic piece in revitalizing an older neighborhood, and as a funding magnet.
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"Savory Samples" at 5, Elections and Annual Meeting at 5:50, "Spectacular Soups, Salads and Slices" at 6, "Sweets and a Speaker" at 7. http://www.tivertonlibrary.org/.
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Thursday, September 24, 2009
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Apeiron Inst. 2nd Annual RI Sustainable Schools Summit
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Time: 8:00 AM to 4 PM
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Location: URI Providence Campus, 80 Washington St.
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Rhode Island Schools: Taking Strides to Sustainability. Attention Superintendents, Administrators, Teachers, Students, School Board Officials, Facilities Managers, Principals, Parents, and Community Members:
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Join the Apeiron Institute for this FREE program, as we take an in-depth look at some green initiatives in local schools and discuss ways to integrate environmental sustainability in school environments, school food systems, and curricula.
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Register for free at http://www.apeiron.org/.
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*NEW* Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update workshop-Land Us
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Time: 6:00 to 8 PM
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Location: City Hall, Broadway, Newport
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Share your goals and priorities for promoting "the health and vigor of the city." Join a lively discussion about updating our Land Use Plan. The committee wants to hear your viewpoint. This second of three topical discussions addresses land use.
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Saturday, September 26, 2009
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The Economical Historic Home: Energy Efficiency Basics for the Old House Owner
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Time: 9:00 AM to 12:45 PM
Location: Philip Walker House, 432 Massasoit Ave., E. Providence
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Do you love your historic home, but hate the high heating bills and wasted energy? Learn how to make your old house more energy efficient without losing its historic character. This hands-on workshop, a joint project with Preserve RI, Historic New England & Providence Revolving Fund, will discuss insulation, weatherizing doors, window repair, retrofitting for renewable energy, tax credits, and more. Reserve your space today! www.newportrestoration.org/calendar/details/12973-the_economical
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Space is limited—reserve early! $15 for members of Preserve RI and Historic N.E. $25 for non-members.
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Providence Sustainability Festival (Apeiron Institute)
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Time: 10:00 AM to 6 PM
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Location: Burnside Park, across from Kennedy Plaza, Providence
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The Apeiron Institute for Sustainable Living will hold its first Providence festival, http://apeiron.org/slf2009/index2.html, a free event that includes many of the features of the Coventry festival, providing numerous resources through its participating vendors, workshops and exhibits.
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Working with the City of Providence, the festival will also highlight “green job” opportunities. We are seeking significant community input and welcome businesses and organizations with a green presence in Providence to participate in the festival, either as exhibitors, presenters, or organizers. For more information, contact Apeiron at info@apeiron.org or call 401-228-7930.
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Saturday, September 12, 2009

Physicians for a National Health Program

A Channing member offers this link to provide a perspective on the national health care reform debate:  http://www.pnhp.org/.
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Thursday, September 10, 2009

Great Day of Service - Columbus Day 2009

The interfaith organization Beyond Our Walls is gearing up for its 5th annual Great Day of Service which will take place on Columbus Day, Monday, October 12, 2009. The day will provide an opportunity for people to come together to work side-by-side, assisting agencies and organizations in need of community service through a work project.
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Last year over 700 volunteers participated at more than 40 different work sites throughout Rhode Island. Projects ranged from apartment renovations at Crossroads RI in North Kingstown to park beautification in East Providence; from sandwich making for the homeless to cleaning up trash at beaches and parks; to creating care packages for service men and women stationed overseas and spending quality time with Veterans in Bristol; and MUCH, MUCH MORE: that’s what a Great Day of Service is all about.
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Online registration will begin September 1, 2009.
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Please visit http://www.greatdayofservice.com/ to learn more and get involved.
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Worksite information will be available online when registration opens on September 1st.
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Everyone can participate – there’s an activity for all ages and abilities.
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Email greatday@greatdayofservice.com with questions.
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Public Hearing on National Grid Rate Increase

The Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission will be holding a public hearing on a proposed National Grid rate increase on Tuesday, September 15th, at 6PM at the Middletown Town Hall, 350 East Main Rd., Middletown, RI.  This proposed rate increase would result in an average customer bill increase of 11.2% per month. This increase, which would impact virtually all Rhode Islanders, follows a 5.2% rate increase in 2007 and a 21.7% increase in 2008.
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Social Action Committee Adopts Goals and Objectives for 2009 - 2010 Church Year

At its September meeting, the Social Action Committee adopted the following goals and objectives for the upcoming church year.  These goals and objectives are aligned with the Channing Memorial Church Strategic Plan:
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GOAL I: Design and support programs that address local community needs and that encourage involvement by diverse members of the local community.
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Objective A:  Conduct research into potential targets for allocation of Margit Baum Funds to support the intent of the bequest. Report results at November 2009 meeting.
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Objective B:  Develop recommendations for allocations of Margit Baum Funds for consideration and approval by fund committee.
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Objective C:  Support Universal Breakfast Program in Newport with goal of 2009 institution of program.
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Objective D:  Support extending Food Stamp availability in Rhode Island.
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Objective E:  Support Channing Soup Kitchen.
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GOAL II:  Increase the Congregation’s social action influence beyond the local level to include in Rhode Island and among the district and national Unitarian Universalist Community.
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Objective A:  Continue and increase Channing’s involvement in state and national legislative ministry.
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GOAL III:  Develop opportunities to increase Congregational awareness and activity in social action.
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Objective A:  Invite Rev. Richard S. Gilbert to conduct a service and workshop for the Channing Congregation and interested persons from the Ballou-Channing District.
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Objective B: Support Green Congregation Committee in its pursuit of certification by end of church year.
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Objective C:  Support Channing Interweave Chapter in its pursuit of its goals.
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Objective D:  Coordinate with the Director of Religious Education the closest possible integration of social justice and social action awareness and activity in the religious education program.
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Objective E:  Educate and engage with the Congregation on the issue of socially responsible investing.
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Objective F:  Coordinate with the Minister to develop and present services and / or adult enrichment programs that address war and peace, violence in our society, and hate speech.
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Want to get involved?  Contact Social Action Co-Chairs Tom Beall or Sally Hanchett at socialjustice@channingchurch.org.
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"Speech in Debate" Panel Discussion

Common Cause Rhode Island will be sponsoring a "Speech in Debate" Panel Discussion September 16th, 7 PM, at Smith-Buonanno Hall, Room 106 at 95 Cushing Street on the Brown University Campus. This will be a panel discussion about the decision of the Rhode Island Supreme Court in the case of Irons vs. The RI Ethics Commission. In its 3 to 1 decision, the court ruled that the speech in debate clause in the state constitution shields state legislators from Ethics Commission prosecution in cases where the legislator’s core legislative activities (like their votes) are used to prove that the legislator violated one of the state’s ethics laws. This will be an important and informative discussion on the issue of ethics enforcement in the state legislature.
*For more information, visit http://www.commoncauseri.org/.
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We Stand on the Side of Love

Article featured in The Catalyst, September 2009
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It is easy to get angry these days. Those who dream of the Beloved Community on Earth see its realization a long way off. We live in a society increasingly characterized by violent conflict and distributive injustice at home and abroad. We are appalled at violence such as the fatal shootings at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Church last year just as we are at scenes of angry, gun-toting people hanging around political town hall meetings called to promote rational discourse not irrational conflict. We question government action to rescue wealthy and powerful financial institutions even as millions lose their jobs and homes, live without a social safety net, and struggle just to survive every day. As people of liberal religious convictions with a passion for social justice and zeal for social action, we want to engage with the world and help bring about systemic change.
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To meet this need, the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations has begun a nation-wide campaign to organize our witness and our action to change public perceptions about the inherent worth and dignity of all people. Called Standing on the Side of Love (http://www.standingonthesideoflove.org/), it is a campaign “that is ultimately about changing the world. Standing on the Side of Love is a public advocacy campaign...promoting respect for the inherent worth and dignity of every person...it is about lifting strong religious voices proclaiming love in the face of fear and hate.”
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Far from being an inner-directed, silent acceptance of the “world as it is”, Standing on the Side of Love, seeks to inspire all of us to act in the tradition of King and Gandhi, who marshaled the power of love and the strength of their convictions into strong witness and action for systemic social change. Historically, such witness and action has been an effective agent for change and our church believes it can be again. By changing public perceptions, we can begin to change public policy – aligning it more with those principles of human freedom, human worth, and human dignity that are not only our religious heritage but our national heritage as well.
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At Channing, we stand on the side of love and look forward to a new church year of witness and action to continue to live our convictions. The next meeting of Channing’s Social Justice Committee is Wednesday, September 9th, 7PM in the Channing Library. Please join us and share your ideas, your passion, and your commitment to the cause of peace, justice, and respect for all people and our planet, and positive change within our community and the world.
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Tom Beall, Social Action Co-Chair
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