http://www.greenprophet.com/2008/03/06/202/bus/

lp...

 

Please indulge a minor rant:

A wise man once said to me that, "Hope is the Leash to Submission..."; another common axiom in all global lexicons' and belief systems is, "One Man's Terrorist is Another Man's Revolutionary...".

Can I get a Witness? If you feel like lovin' me, if you got the notion, do you second those Emotions? If so, check out the sites which follow: join; get educated; become active; evolve; cultivate and nurture empathy; if necessary, raise some hell.

Doing the "right" thing for the "wrong" reason, or, the "wrong" thing for the "right" reason is a matter of circumstance.

Abre los ojos: Open your eyes...

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere..."

Martin Luther King Jr., Letter from Birmingham Jail, April 16, 1963
US black civil rights leader & clergyman (1929 - 1968)

http://www.amnesty.org/en

http://www.hrw.org/

http://www.un.org/en/

http://www.unicef.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resistance_movement

Get your own PIXEL

http://www.tearitdown.org/todo.php

 

The polaroid photograph seen below is a literal / historical artifact; I could not believe that I located this today; after several moves, certain things have a way of simply vanishing! Due to the fragile, crumbling condition of the photo, I scanned it immediately for posting purposes. This shot was taken approximately 11 years ago. The reason that my wife, Sandie, and yours truly are wearing jumpers ladened with harnesses is because - just moments prior - we had leaped from an elevation of 14,000 feet, parachuting in Somerville, Tennessee. Not too shabby for a first date, eh? We were doubling with Carol B. and Bill J. from midtown Memphis. For those of you who do not know me, I have an affinity for tough hombres, not bullies mind you, but survivors. Those with the intestinal fortitude to protect the weak, not because they can, necessarily, but because its the just thing to do. Neither strong body nor strong mind takes preference; so long as actions justify the means. After seeing her front flip out of a perfectly good airplane and free-fall for several minutes, my search was over before it had truly began. Lord knows that I can be a grizzly bear to live with; particularly if the moon is full... we are not refererred to as "lunatics" haphazardly. That reality coupled with the fact that, after our first pregnancy together, I had her name tattooed on my right bicep in script so large both it and the great wall of China can be seen from space should emphatically state, "Sugar, rest assured, papa ain't a rolling stone...".

Sandie Yun: 100% Korean nationality; immigrated to the USA - from Seoul - in 1974...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seoul

 

2010 edition of the "Arkansas Green Guide" - brought to you on page/turner/pro...

http://www.pageturnpro.com/Arkansas-Business-Group/11650-Arkansas-Green-Guid%20e-2010/index.html#/1

 

As my full-time occupational, educational and outreach endeavors, within Arkansas' energy fields, are drawing disconcertingly nigh: I feel it incumbent at this juncture to pass along to all my friends, business associates and sector colleagues - my warmest and unfeigned recommendation / my unwavering stamp of unconditional approval upon the brow of April Ambrose: Little Rock's finest. Her competencies, aptitudes, effectualness, qualifications and moxie are unsurpassed in all things environmental in nature. April is one of the very few professionals I have ever encountered the world over, with no ulterior motive guiding her actions; ethically sound; without bias; prudent; cogent, and right as rain! I have found that her head, heart and hands are all toiling in unison toward a future so bright, I seriously doubt many in-state can scarcely think her dreams a probability, much less unerringly certain. She can be reached at the link below: the consulting firm, Viridian USA. Stay true to self, my friend, and scrupulous in all other topics of import; do so and the world shall be your oyster * and you, April, ever the pearl. All my best, lp...

http://www.viridianusa.com/

 

Currently in Heavy Rotation...

My Latest Top 10

Elisa Toffoli - an Italian goddess; sempre bella

(Cover of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song ")

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylLGr4drqsg

Joe Bonamassa - old school bad ass

(Blue and Evil)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMoPLc8bay0

The 5 6 7 8's - the quirkiest trio in Asia

(I'm Blue)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlPrvzPolYA&feature=related

The Ethereally Beautiful and Equally Talented: Amy LaVere

(Killing Him - The Sun Studio Sessions; Memphis, TN)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60ZdD4kh4-E

The Smashing Pumpkins - immortals, period.

(Rhinoceros)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=049lSvetgpw

Soulico / Shimmy Sonic - Hebrew funk maestro(s)

(Follow the Link to the Group's Israeli Facebook Page; Scan to the Left Margin; Glance Down; Play the Tune: Honey Bird)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Michael-shimi-sonic-Emet/9042763498?v=wall

Maroon 5 / Featuring Eve - infectious as hell

(Wake Up Call; Mash-Up)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPgh1ysZtmQ

Lykke Li - my muse; very still waters; very deep waters

(Possibility...)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvMeOllo_Vo

Chingon - a delicious stew of styles, rhythms, lyrics; the future of "North Americana" motifs

(Malagüeña Salerosa - Live)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEOcJHpMLu8&feature=related

Shivaree - crazy, sexy, cool

(Goodnight Moon)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2t1r40SxwU

 

Its no secret that various aspects of my work / occupational studies have kept me on the road incessantly for the better part of 7 years. I do not not say this matter of factly, nor to garner accolades of any sort; I say this as an admission of endless thanks and ceaseless devotion to the three primary caregivers my daughters have had in the stated, aforementioned time frame. These ladies are truly the crème de la crème; the elite; my flowers; the best and the brightest of stars, and I their greatest champion. I love them all very dearly...

Kerri

Kelly

and,

^^^^^Rebekah

oliviaolivia

poseyposey

 

 

...Was just notified by my former research partner in Alaska, Amanda, that I have 1 final grant to edit and submit on behalf of the Native American residents of Eek - all before the end of July... Oy Vey! 

1/4 Alutian, 1/4 Shoshoni Tribe, 1/4 French, 1/4 Russian = The Alluring Aftermath of War:

A Product of America's Manifest Destiny + European / WW II Diplomacy... 

1/4 Choctaw Tribe, 1/4 Norse / Viking ancestry, 1/4 English, 1/4 Scotch-Irish = Morose Bluntness;

A Product of my Biology being my Destiny / one Ornery Mo-Fo - Ha...

 

Protect and Strengthen our Public Water - Support a Water Protection and Reinvestment Trust Fund! Len Pipkin: signatory...

http://action.foodandwaterwatch.org/t/5915/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=1988&t=&limit=425

 

We of the Pipkin Clan are all guilty of / blessed with our own unique... idiosyncrasies... in how we express ourselves; Katie Rose is no exception. Her latest pieces are now part of the Brooklyn Art Project and Vimeo, respectively. Most creative-types with such pronounced third eyes' and sixth senses' are never fully appreciated in their own time. This would be a pity it if were to be the case with KRP; but quite frankly, I doubt she gives a hoot. The inability to acknowledge another's viewpoint - is a "you" problem...

'straight from Austin: she's black gold, texas t / swimming pools, movie stars!

http://www.brooklynartproject.com/photo/photo/listForContributor?screenName=2girdhvkm2ct8

"My Own Private Raindance"

wow! veeeeery surreal...

http://vimeo.com/10597265

 

Birthday Musings: during most of the year, I live a rather spartan existence; then, unabashedly PaRtY like a rock star on September 23rd (perfect example: the last trip to Dallas, TX, M5, front row; was given Adam's guitar; I jammed for the audience; etc...).

2010, what to do, what to do?

 

I wonder if the Black Keys are touring?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hcc07MyG1aU

 

Lights, Camera, Action:

UALR  / The Clinton School will be re-airing several of my previous lectures contained within the

"Speaking of Greeen" series over the next few months; similar to those from last year...

http://ualr.edu/tv/uploads/2009/05/May%2018th%20-%2024th%202009.pdf

http://ualr.edu/tv/uploads/2009/03/March%2030%202009.pdf

 

Focus the Nation: A group I have been affiliated with for several years; I fully endorse their work.

http://lenpipkin.users.focuslocal.focusthenation.org/en/profile/

 

The State of Arkansas

Congrats to Senator Lincoln & Congressman Causey!!!

Len,

I am pleased to announce that political analyst and former White House senior aide Paul Begala will be the keynote speaker at the Democratic Party of Arkansas (DPA) 2009 Jefferson-Jackson Dinner on Friday, July 24, 2009 at Alltel Arena in North Little Rock.

"This year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner is an important opportunity to take stock of the accomplishments of Democrats in Arkansas as we prepare for the road ahead," said Governor Mike Beebe.  "Paul Begala is an enthusiastic national opinion leader who will rally our faithful as we gear up for next year's election campaigns."

From the White House Situation Room to CNN's news program of the same name, Begala's experience gives him unmatched perspective on politics and the media.  As a political strategist or pundit, he has been the center of every election cycle of the last 25 years.

Begala served as counselor to President Clinton in the White House, where he helped define and defend the Administration's agenda.  With James Carville he was a senior strategist for the 1992 Clinton-Gore campaign.  

In addition to Begala, this year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner will feature Governor Beebe, U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representatives Marion Berry, Vic Snyder and Mike Ross.  Also participating in the evening's festivities will be Lieutenant Governor Bill Halter, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, Secretary of State Charlie Daniels, Treasurer Martha Shoffner, Auditor Jim Wood, Commissioner of State Lands Mark Wilcox, Democratic state legislators, and many other distinguished Democrats.  

I look forward to visiting with Democrats from across the state as we welcome Paul Begala back to Arkansas.  I know from my recent travels that our county committees, clubs, and Party auxiliaries are excited about the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner and the other events scheduled that weekend.  This is a time for Democrats to gather and honor the outstanding women and men who serve all Arkansans in elected office.

The Jefferson-Jackson Dinner is the highlight of a dynamic and busy two days of Democratic events and meetings.  Kicking off the festivities the Senior Democrats of Arkansas will have lunch and a regular business meeting on Friday, July 24, at the Whole Hog Café in Little Rock.  As the lights go down on the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, the Young Democrats of Arkansas will just be getting started as they play host to the second annual J-J After Dark.

Also at the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner we will announce the 2009 Young Democrat and Democratic Woman and Man of the Year.  Nominations are being accepted for the Jeffrey Ledbetter, Gressie Carnes and Harold Jinks Awards.  All nominations are due by Monday, July 6.

On Saturday, July 25, the DPA will hold its third quarter state and executive committee meetings at the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little Rock.  Following the meetings will be a lunch provided by the Arkansas Regional Council of Carpenters.

For those traveling to central Arkansas for this event, reduced rate hotel room blocks have been reserved at the Wyndham, the Peabody, and the Holiday Inn Presidential hotels.  Please contact these hotels directly to reserve your room.

Please make it a point to join the Democratic Party of Arkansas for this weekend of celebration.  Tables and sponsorship opportunities are still available for J-J, for more information contact CDP Strategies at (501)537-0190 or amanda@cdpstrategies.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

For information on purchasing advertisements in the 2009 Democratic Weekend program please contact the DPA at (501) 374-2361 or info@arkdems.org This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

I am pleased to announce that political analyst and former White House senior aide Paul Begala will be the keynote speaker at the Democratic Party of Arkansas (DPA) 2009 Jefferson-Jackson Dinner on Friday, July 24, 2009 at Alltel Arena in North Little Rock.

"This year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner is an important opportunity to take stock of the accomplishments of Democrats in Arkansas as we prepare for the road ahead," said Governor Mike Beebe.  "Paul Begala is an enthusiastic national opinion leader who will rally our faithful as we gear up for next year's election campaigns."

From the White House Situation Room to CNN's news program of the same name, Begala's experience gives him unmatched perspective on politics and the media.  As a political strategist or pundit, he has been the center of every election cycle of the last 25 years.

Begala served as counselor to President Clinton in the White House, where he helped define and defend the Administration's agenda.  With James Carville he was a senior strategist for the 1992 Clinton-Gore campaign.  

In addition to Begala, this year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner will feature Governor Beebe, U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representatives Marion Berry, Vic Snyder and Mike Ross.  Also participating in the evening's festivities will be Lieutenant Governor Bill Halter, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, Secretary of State Charlie Daniels, Treasurer Martha Shoffner, Auditor Jim Wood, Commissioner of State Lands Mark Wilcox, Democratic state legislators, and many other distinguished Democrats.  

I look forward to visiting with Democrats from across the state as we welcome Paul Begala back to Arkansas.  I know from my recent travels that our county committees, clubs, and Party auxiliaries are excited about the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner and the other events scheduled that weekend.  This is a time for Democrats to gather and honor the outstanding women and men who serve all Arkansans in elected office.

The Jefferson-Jackson Dinner is the highlight of a dynamic and busy two days of Democratic events and meetings.  Kicking off the festivities the Senior Democrats of Arkansas will have lunch and a regular business meeting on Friday, July 24, at the Whole Hog Café in Little Rock.  As the lights go down on the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, the Young Democrats of Arkansas will just be getting started as they play host to the second annual J-J After Dark.

Also at the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner we will announce the 2009 Young Democrat and Democratic Woman and Man of the Year.  Nominations are being accepted for the Jeffrey Ledbetter, Gressie Carnes and Harold Jinks Awards.  All nominations are due by Monday, July 6.

On Saturday, July 25, the DPA will hold its third quarter state and executive committee meetings at the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little Rock.  Following the meetings will be a lunch provided by the Arkansas Regional Council of Carpenters.

For those traveling to central Arkansas for this event, reduced rate hotel room blocks have been reserved at the Wyndham, the Peabody, and the Holiday Inn Presidential hotels.  Please contact these hotels directly to reserve your room.

Please make it a point to join the Democratic Party of Arkansas for this weekend of celebration.  Tables and sponsorship opportunities are still available for J-J, for more information contact CDP Strategies at (501)537-0190

We look forward to seeing you July 24 and 25 for a historic Democratic weekend.

Sincerely,

Todd Turner

My lady, The Honorable Senator Lincoln...

http://www.arkdems.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=328:paul-begala-to-be-2009-jefferson-jackson-dinner-keynote-speaker&catid=41:chairmans-message&Itemid=53

 

I recently escorted my youngest, Olivia, age 5, to a thrift store or two and helped her raid her grandmother's closet as well: result below. ***Does anyone remember the lead singer for 3 Non Blondes? I believe her name was Linda Perry. They had one hit in the states entitled Whats Up? If you recall the video for the song, you will immediately remember that Linda was a hat aficionado; I suppose Olivia is as well...

 

Busted! My eldest, Posey - age 7 - just saw me in the process of updating the website and immediately demanded to know why I had not already posted something, anything else, that pertained to her. So, she went through about 3000 photographs, and decided this was a flashback photo to be displayed. This was from, say, November of 2009; it was toward the end of the beekeeping season (harvesting the honey / maintenance on the hives). I had just returned home for the day and we were doing her homework together.

 

Since I will be out of the country later this year / and in conjunction with HBO's "TrueBlood" beginning its 3rd season this Sunday night - all of the local vamps, werewolfs, shape shifters and pedestrian creatures of the night are having our Halloween Party within the next 48 to 72 hours or so. After much thought, I decided upon being the scandalous Russian holy man of the late 1800s: Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin (photo below; both his and my own; as you can see - I genuinely went for it this year; as soon as the bash ends I promise to become presentable once again - at this juncture, though, I am beginning to scare small children, have people cross the street if they find me in their path, etc...).

Welcome to my nightmare, I think you're gonna' like it, I think you're gonna' feel where you belong...

 

http://www.hbo.com/true-blood/index.html

 

The term Renascence Man is tossed about so readily these days that it actually devalues the word's thrust and punch in the vast majority of instances. Not so in this case, my friends. Henry Rollins is the real deal. I have traveled the world; seen the wheat separated from the chaff. As Sinatra said:

I've been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate,
A poet, a pawn and a king.
I've been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing:
Each time I find myself laying flat on my face,
I just pick myself up and get back in the race...

Well, so has yours truly, and Henry had a lot to do with that ability to doggedly persevere. Come get switched on, July 2nd, 2010, at Memphis' own New Daisy Theater.

http://21361.com/

http://www.newdaisy.com/

 

Guess who wants to go to London very soon?

^That would be me^

http://www.louisvuitton.com/uk/flash/index.jsp?direct1=home_entry_gb

"I'm no school boy but I know what I like,
You should have heard me just around midnight..."

Great photo of Keith / the LV guitar case; and check out the vid below from 1971 / Top of the Pops: Brown Sugar... A song still banned in several countries; and not because of matters such as human trafficking, slavery, misogyny and rape, but, inter racial "relations" in and of itself...

How curious...

But nevertheless, a tune which continues to be heard in beer-joints and speak-easies the world over to this day; against that beat, those lyrics and Mick's "pimpin' aint easy" pink suit - resistance is futile...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8Y6EEWXwRU&feature=related

 

For years now, family and friends have literally begged that I take a year or so off to write my memoirs - in either a fiction / narrative, or, a non fiction endeavor of candid realism. Well, pigs not only have started to take flight, but, rumors abound that Hell itself is undergoing a rather cold snap of late. Yes, Yes, Yes, names are being changed to protect the identities of the myriad lads and lasses involved in both my zeniths and nadirs of the past 25 years (which include stellar service to the nation via the USMC / teaching professionally / etc - intertwined with acts of unadulterated hedonism, death-wishes to outright social mores be damned anarchy...)

I'll keep everyone abreast of the progress; anyone's palms lightly sheathing with sweat as they read this?

They should be :)

metacognition

 

Giddy after a stellar webinar with the University of Sussex's Global Transformations research department!

http://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/researchthemes.php

 

An erstwhile neighbor from midtown Memphis, now residing in Fayetteville, Arkansas recently posted her reminiscings on the twenty some-odd years she lived there. Moreover, I am not ashamed in the least to admit crying like a baby while reading Sarah's tale. This is simply one of those unique cases where, you just had to have experienced life as a member of that eclectic train wreck, to truly, truly appreciate the longing one feels for that square mile or two after departure; and rest assured, her structured reflections - and the links provided - caused a wave of nostalgia to wash over me, so bittersweet, I remained stunned for quite a while after taking it all in. It was as though I was caught within a vivid dream; wondering if my tears were ones depictive of wistful youth, or, the emblematic loss of my own naiveté: both of which took place there as well. My pre-teens and the vast majority of my adult life (I am currently 40) transpired in that uncanny hamlet... Over time, I have lived in no less than 4 major cities, states, countries, continents; as well as 2 to 3 additional locales being in the most remote and horrid of conditions; and yet, I neither cease to ponder nor fail to return to midtown at some point. All my sojourns, invariably, as if by way of an inner compass, direct me back home. There, and only there, does my restlesness abate. Sarah is making a name for herself in NW Arkansas, as well she should, in the fields of journalism and photography. If that discourse is indicative of her talents, aptitudes and abilities - all contemporaries step aside - a skilled virtuoso walks in your midst; your collective asses are grass, and she's the lawn-mower!  

Even though she looks to be joyfully content in the photos below, Mrs. Gill and her husband will, eventually, return to Memphis; everyone does, everyone...

This lady has an aura about her, folks, a palpable magnetism... enjoy Sarah's work; I can not adorn her neck with enough laurels of quality and worth...

http://www.sarahfortune.com/2010/05/midtown/

 

Attention: regarding the abrupt halt, as seen above, to the The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test Restoration Road Show and Flea Circus. Well, it was placed upon an indefinite hiatus after the last jaunt to San Fransisco in 2009. It was at that time when the underpinnings of my entire empire collapsed: the banking industry, the mortgage industry and the insurance industry. Those within my circle fought the good fight, were promised financial bail-outs galore, yet, were ultimately left to die upon the withering vine. Instant Karma is a bitch; god help the clowns responsible for the chicanery once she bites their asses in the aggregate. Hubris, avarice and spineless actions are deplorable and will demand their ounce of flesh when the devil's bargain comes to its closure.

Au revoir, you pitiful old men; see you in hell...

 

A quick aside: while convalescing during my recent bed-rest, I made an effort to re watch some classic flicks and read some phenomenal books (listed below). All are quite fascinating, and, either quicken the pulse or cause the blood to run ice cold - depending on your vantage point!

Movies:

PI

http://www.seangullette.com/

Memento:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_Pearce

The Mothman Prophecies

Mark Pellington: Point Pleasant, West Virginia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mothman_Prophecies_(film)

And the grandest mind bender of ALL time: Angel Heart

http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/19870306/REVIEWS/703060301/1023

 

Books:

Endgame Volumes 1 & 2

Jensen

followed by,

This tome will not only astound and amaze, but will shatter how you have perceived pop culture over the past four decades (all the while, turning you on to the most magnificent bit of marketing genius ever to have been perpetrated upon the masses; a must read for the conspiracy theorist in us all).

The Walrus Was Paul: The Great Beatle Death Clues

Patterson

next,

Lucas Corso, middle-aged, tired, and cynical, is a book detective, a mercenary hired to hunt down rare editions for wealthy and unscrupulous clients. When a well-known bibliophile is found hanged, leaving behind part of the original manuscript of Alexandre Dumas's The Three Musketeers, Corso is brought in to authenticate the fragment. The task seems straightforward, but the unsuspecting Corso is soon drawn into a swirling plot involving devil worship, occult practices, and swashbuckling derring-do among a cast of characters bearing a suspicious resemblance to those of Dumass' masterpiece. Aided by a mysterious beauty named for a Conan Doyle heroine, Corso travels from Madrid to Toledo to Paris in pursuit of a sinister and seemingly omniscient killer. Part mystery, part puzzle, part witty intertextual game, The Club Dumas is a wholly original intellectual thriller by the internationally bestselling author of The Flanders Panel and The Seville Communion.

Pérez-Reverte

and finally,

Camus' nihlistic classic: The Stranger

 

Achtung Baby, 'lest anyone forget to have marked their calendars:

http://www.worldcup2010southafrica.com/

 

I recently received several prized items / returned from Colorado - in tow with an advanced Degree necessary to, ultimately, be granted access to the projected areas within Israel - discussed in posts below - as well as with a few gifts from well wishers (to include U.S. flags certified to have flown over the Senate chambers in D. C. in my honor): fully symbolizing support for my pending work - from politicos residing in Little Rock and Nashville...

(insert interjection, here)...

 

http://www.memphis.va.gov/

Hello, all. Similarly to an earlier event in 1897 when Mark Twain made his famous remark "The report of my death was an exaggeration", I too am now back on the good foot and feeling well. I will give the briefest of accounts to what has delayed my travel / occupational actions over the past several months- both recuperatively and in terms of personal medical vindication- then move forward to matters at hand in the coming days and weeks! During March of this year, I began to suffer Parkinson Disease like symptoms, to the acute degree of using a cane, being banned from operating an automobile, to utterly losing equilibrium, gait and ST Memory. I stepped in with assistance from friends in congress and what was implanted within- USMC circa 1989- (as those of you in the know were told) was indeed extracted at the Veterans Administation Regional Medical Center of Memphis. The process was several months in length, not to mention excruciatingly painful, but over it is, indeed. The remaining procedures are ones maintenance in nature- MRI, etc- to see if and when any of the cranial bolts, screws, pins and plates need a bit of a tune up. So, join me in a monumental exhale... thank you... let's begin, again, shall we?

http://thenanoage.com/#military

http://medicalservicecorps.amedd.army.mil/amedd2039/MilitaryMedicine_in2039.pdf

https://blog.amedd.army.mil/msc/?page=PostViewSingle&postId=69

 

Break / Medical Leave

 

I bid you, adieu... March / 2010... The Middle East Awaits!

On the verge of shutting things down here in just a while, the heading says it all...

I will, more than likely, be out of cell range; backup - forward any snail mail to:

1993 Higbee Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee  38104

 

2011 and Beyond

Think Tank gig / Completion of Ph D Research; apprenticeship with Cynthia Breazeal...

Astrobiology: a rather novel, large, value driven academic umbrella with innumerable, niche specializations; once combined, all leading toward the next physical singularity...

Personal areas of overlapping work (think of a Venn Diagram):

a. Humanities
b. Informatics
c. A.I. Contributions with CB LAB

http://astrobiology.nasa.gov/roadmap

http://www.iac.gatech.edu/academics/graduate-programs/dp-hsts

http://www.informatics.unlv.edu/cognates/hci.htm

http://reilly.nd.edu/

CB

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3MJ5BU3C20

http://web.media.mit.edu/~cynthiab/

 

Summer Itinerary:

***New blog will be up and running upon my return from the Kibbutz / Solar Conference...

Peace, love and understanding, my dear, dear associates, colleagues and friends!

Len Pipkin

1.901.486.9045

lp

2010 swan song...

US's / the earth's 2nd space race impending / over natural resources:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35751461/ns/technology_and_science-space/

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/home/index.html

Israel has some of the most advanced algae research in the world:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/news/releases/2009/09-147AR.html

***there are enough angles to approach the following links, from a global perspective, to keep the inquisistive ones among you occupied for another 500 years...

 

Tel Aviv, then south, to Eliot

Negev Commune: Southern Israel

http://directory.ic.org/2986/Neot_Semadar

http://www.greenprophet.com/2008/09/07/2334/neot-semadar-eco-village/

 

Solar fields and strange bedfellows:

http://www.thebioenergysite.com/news/5584/israel-and-egypt-in-solar-farm-talks

http://www.greenprophet.com/2010/02/23/17575/solar-panels-cover-open-spaces/

http://www.greenprophet.com/2009/01/25/6305/israel-egypt-abu-dhabi-energy-goals/

 

Saltwater (desalination) reverse osmosis: rocket thrust, irrigation, potable H2O and drink-ability

http://www.water-technology.net/projects/israel/

http://www.power-technology.com/projects/taweelah/

cellular level - amazing; we can break free of earth's gravitaional field with this...

culture / growth...

mass harvesting...

Wish me safe travels before I depart!

 

 

Though among the angels she dwells, Ani DiFranco, is gracing Memphis with another gig during April, 2010...

Both, enjoy and live in the moment where this artist is the focal point folks; few get to experience, or, fully realize, a genius at the height of their powers in our own lifetimes; she is one such luminary...

Don't wait much longer, though, to meet her; this lady runs upon and toys with beams of light; much like Einstein did within the dreams of his youth...

xoxo

http://www.newdaisy.com/  Memphis, TN April 13, 2010

http://www.righteousbabe.com/ani/index.asp

General info:
info@righteousbabe.com
business phone: (716) 852-8020
fax: (716) 852-2741
toll-free merch and tour info: 1-800-ON-HER-OWN
snail mail:
P. O. Box 95, Ellicott Station,
Buffalo, NY 14205-0095

 

World Without Oil

Please tell me that I wasn't the only, lone soul watching this hypothetical scenario
unfold last evening. Each segment was a form of mental conditioning to the extreme;
though, not extreme enough.  To my knowledge, it was the first show of its type to take realities and
scenarios not just from a hindsight / Monday morning "quarterbacking" analysis
perspective / and tie things together, at every conceivable level, local to global,
backyards on Terra Firma to breaking the confines of gravity's pull; no, cogent solutions were detailed... initiatives well underway to help any unforeseen calamity be less deleterious to our kind. I have railed for years that vision was needed over sight; and where
sustainability is the issue at hand - its a matter of inspiration over conservation.
ALWAYS. The impending crises are easy enough to forecast; how about focusing on
positive ends, auspicious game theories, etc. all the while infusing some much needed positivity back into our ponderous doom and gloom prophecies.

Kudos to Nat Geo...

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/aftermath/4462/Overview

A stellar outfit from Sweden and their tremendous work being done in Africa; special area of personal focus: Mozambique... (Micro Farming and Community Decentralization)

http://www.sccportal.org/about.aspx

http://www.sccportal.org/countries/Mozambique.aspx

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mz.html

 

Green For All is going on tour with The Black Eyed Peas

At a press conference yesterday, will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas said, "... the
actions and policies that protect the planet for future generations are the same as
those that create new jobs and economic opportunities. The Peas are proud to be
getting the word out about these important efforts..."

http://blackeyedpeas.greenforall.org/signup

...for voicemails, images, videos and fresh updates straight from the road!

http://www.blackeyedpeas.com/

 

I recently had the pleasure of seeing the Glasgow family for the first time / long time; Kerri was my two daughter's first nanny, our next door neighbor, gentle spirited, my personal assistant, the family's interior decorator, objective 3rd party, organizational specialist, kind souled, vegan, yoga instructing everything! An amazing gal; and her husbands pretty darned great, too. Now - they - have a baby, and we are about 90 minutes away from them / our former home in midtown; 5 years later and Kerri and I still get misty eyed and are on the verge of tears whenever we discuss the move to Arkansas. Yes, I know, generally speaking, the space time continuum is a linear perception, the ebb and flow of things being forward in nature, though, I also know a part of me stayed behind when we departed Memphis - a hole that hasn't been filled since that occurrence. Never let anyone say being thin-skinned is an inauspicious trait, either, my dear, for thats why we got along so swimmingly; after stripping away all superficial nonsense - some things really matter and are worth getting a bit politely ill tempered about! xoxo...

Simply gorgeous image...

 

The incomparable jewel of north America's west coast raw food lifestyle (the natural, lucky little lady in the city of light / L. A. woman), Ani Phyo, has a new tome due for an April release date: it may be pre-ordered, now, through Amazon...

http://astore.amazon.com/aniphyocom-20/detail/0738213772

 

H.R. 3202:

Water Protection and Reinvestment Act of 2009

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-3202

Interesting... if you agree, sign the petition below...

http://action.foodandwaterwatch.org/t/5915/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=1988

                                                                                                           

http://www.iclei-europe.org/

 

Happy Valentines Day / 2010

http://www.history.com/content/valentine

Photo Flashback 1: July 2006; Eskimo - Kisses and Nose - Beeps for All...

And for those of us with an affinity for our inner - nerds:

http://www.carlsagan.com/

 

Photo Flashback 2: The absolute worst-day imaginable to pack the incorrect photography gear to pass around: B / W... Oy Vey... Approximately, June of '08; the pacific northwest....

Infinity

Zen

The LZ

http://www.ushpa.aero/default.asp

 

A true friend and sector mentor without peer (Dr. Landrum) - has just published her most recent research findings; excellent...

http://www.amazon.com/

 

The most to date / upcoming CEQ agenda for 2010:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq

 

To those of you who know me well, my issues with extended bouts of sleeplessness are no secret; to say I suffer from insomnia is a joke -  the problem being that the punchline is not humorous in the least. All that preamble to announce that I actually feel exhausted at this exact moment; therefore, off to bed I go: hopefully for a day or two, concurrently...

See you in the ether!!!

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/insomnia/DS00187

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/insomniac

http://thesaurus.reference.com/browse/insomniac

 

Before hitting the rack, though, I wanted to wish a very, very special lady from Memphis, Alicia George: Makeup Artist to the Stars, congratulations; I hear that Cupid's Arrow has recently found its mark - and so close to Valentine's Day - how apropos! This photo was from my youngest's last birthday party...

To know her, is to love her; I'm honored to say that you may find me firmly ensconced in both camps!

http://www.memphismagazine.com/gyrobase/Magazine/Content?oid=oid%3A1341772

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqmpEeoVZPE

http://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/155103/1

 

Within the past month, this English political lass has found her way onto my all - time / top 10 bad ass list; give her a look see...

Clare Short, MP, House of Commons: London

http://www.epolitix.com/mpwebsites/mpwebsitepage/mpsite/clare-short/mppage/home-1/?no_cache=1

 

The latter half of my 2009 was spent completing field work: in the Apiary Sciences / invertebrate

research; watershed issues / groundwater assessments, re-investment activities; and LEED /

 eco - friendly downtown construction projects! See collages, below... lp

 

http://www.fatherhood.org/

http://www.girlsforachange.org/

Several of the following shots were taken by my girls; the burgeoning fashion-istas’ are quite into photography at this juncture - particularly black and white contrasts and sepia

Sorry to appear so disinterested in this ^ photo; two consecutive hours of Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! tends to necessitate I place myself into a zen meditative state before the party starts...

http://www.nickjr.com/wow-wow-wubbzy/

(Yet, another?) Arctic blast throughout northeast Arkansas - as well as - the U. S. eastern coast; enough already, guys, give it a rest for the remainder of the season...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8337337.stm

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=cloud-seeding-china-snow

If this type of tech whets your whistle: check into the history of HAARP...

Günaydýn, Ms. Goktan!

Bir aydan beri Türkçe öðreniyorum (obviously- haha- that is an understatement); Bana yardým edebilir misiniz?

Please give the information forwarded earlier your honest attention; mere words on documents they are not: they are the culmination of empirical data, scientific queries and alternative field measures; I am simply proposing a third possibility; our seeming differences are in actuality: interdependent.

Bir gün Türkiy görmek isterim- "yarýn"- suits me just fine! Hoþça kal(ýn), arkadaþ! Çok naziksiniz, Demet, for allowing me this practice...

Len Pipkin

1.901.486.9045

http://turkey.usembassy.gov/

Treehugger / Planet Green is chock-a-block with hip, now, wow reporting this month...

http://www.treehugger.com/galleries/2009/12/the-unbelievable-world-of-snowflakes.php?campaign=th_promo_inside

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2010/02/google-map-turns-envelope-into-directions-to-party.php

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2010/02/free-for-free-yoink-finds-free-stuff.php

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/videos/100-places/?campaign=TH_sbl_videopromo

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/buy-local/?campaign=nav-fh-buy

A man can remove himself from rural Tennessee, yet, in a cinematic instant, be returned there at lightspeed; wow!

Very, very nice job, Craig...

Happy Birthday, Christina, this Friday - February 12th; Thank You for Everything...

http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount_vantage/blacksnakemoan/

by Roger Ebert

I had never really heard many half-snorts before. Snorts, yes, and silence. But what do you make of an audience that has no idea how to react? "Black Snake Moan" is the oddest, most peculiar movie I've seen about sex and race and redemption in the Deep South. It may be the most peculiar recent movie ever except for "Road House," but then what can you say about "Road House"? Such movies defy all categories.

The movie -- I will try to be concise -- stars Samuel L. Jackson as a broken-down blues musician and vegetable market gardener whose wife has just walked out. On the road leading to his property he finds the battered body of a young white girl, whose injuries hardly seem curable by the cough syrup he barters fresh vegetables for at the drugstore. The girl is Rae (Christina Ricci); it is no coincidence that Jackson's character is named Lazarus, and Lazarus determines to return her from near death or whooping cough, one or the other. No saint himself, he wants to redeem her from a life of sluttery.

His technique, with a refreshing directness, is to chain her to a radiator. Good thing he lives way out in the wilderness. Lazarus and Rae have no sex per se, but they do a powerful lot of slapping, cursing and chain-rattling, and the reaction of the blue-collar town on Market Day is a study. I think the point is that Lazarus and Rae somehow redeem each other through these grotesqueries, a method I always urge be used with extreme caution.

The performances are very good: Hell-bent for leather, and better than the material deserves, there is much hysteria and snot. The writer-director, Craig Brewer, made that other splendid story of prostitution and redemption, "Hustle & Flow," with its Oscar-winning song ("It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp") In fact, I pretty much enjoyed the whole movie, with some incredulity and a few half-snorts.

Both "Black Snake Moan" and "Hustle & Flow" are about neglected characters living on the fringe who find a healing in each other. Both movies use a great deal of music to illustrate the souls of their characters.

We sense that the girl has never been treated other than in a beastly manner, and that the man, having lost his wife, is determined not to allow sex to betray his instincts to do good. Yes, I think it is probably against the law to chain a drifter to a radiator, but in a sense these people exist outside the law, society and common or any kind of sense. Their society consists of the usual locals who seem clueless and remarkably unobservant, leading to remarkable non sequiturs.

There is another woman, the middle-aged pharmacist named Angela, played by the sweet S. Epatha Merkerson, to provide Lazarus an alternative to a life of sluts and tramps. But, as for Rae -- well, I gather that when compulsive nymphomania passes a certain point, you're simply lost.

After Rae says goodbye to her boyfriend Ronnie (played by pop star Justin Timberlake), who has enlisted in the service for cloudy reasons, she immediately falls to the ground and starts writhing as if under attack by fire ants. This is her way of conveying uncontrollable, orgiastic need. A girl that needy, you'd approach like Miss RoboCop.

I love the way that both Samuel Jackson and Christina Ricci take chances like this, and the way that Brewer creates characters of unbelievable forbearance, like Ronnie, who is in a more or less constant state of panic attacks and compulsion. And I like the understated way the rural Tennessee locations are used. You have never seen a movie like this before. Then again, you may not hope to. Some good blues music helps carry the day.

I heard some days after the screening that Jackson considers this his best performance. Well, maybe it is. He disappears into the role, and a good performance requires energy, daring, courage and intensity, which he supplies in abundance. Few actors could accomplish work at this level with this screenplay. As for Christina Ricci, she is the right actor for this role; she embodies this poor, mixed-up creature and lets you experience both her pain and her hope. Her work defines the boundaries of the thankless.

Cast & Credits

Lazarus: Samuel L. Jackson
Rae: Christina Ricci
R.L.: John Cothran Jr.
Ronnie: Justin Timberlake
Angela: S. Epatha Merkerson

Here, Lester Brown, pens a thought provoking article pertaining to
forecasting: 10 trends where our continued actions invariably lead to a
quite harsh demise- as well as- 10 auspicious trends that could lay the
very underpinnings to a new green foundation taking place / leading to
a newly framed prosperity.

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Nature-Community/Tipping-Point-Planet-Civilization.aspx

Sharon, Mr. B., S & W,

To one of the finest creatures ever placed upon this earth; to one who has blessed every person and thing she has come into contact with; Sharon is a woman of conviction; stands tall; and does the right things in life, not only because she knows innately those prompts to action are the correct things to do- she's true to herself / and her kith and kin: like it, or, hit the highway. Bravo. May your school continue to thrive- producing our next generation of leadership; may you stay strong; may those in your inner circle realize what they have in their midst: a supernova... 7 years ago, in Memphis, you willingly gave all that you had- a redemption song- wisdom; gurus manifest and lessons are dispensed when the pupil is ready; you changed my life as though folding a pair of socks- darlin', thats powerful. I may swing by in March- helping to celebrate the 40th anniversary of a quite wonderful event of the 20th century- I need further rescue, plus, my debt to you is endless. More in a few weeks... 

sharon_richardson_len_pipkinalbum; no - cal; USA

xoxo always...

Len

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFGgbT_VasI

ADEC - Brownfields' Update! (some of the latest field pics...)

Aniak, Alaska: Backhauling to begin in earnest in the near term...

Early sunrise peek as to why mass dumping, with no standardized oversight within local villages, utter lack of control and infrastructure gridlock regarding compliancy regs / known via the pollutants extant in ones' daily ebbs and flows- are so thoroughly decimating the once symbiotic balance of mankind / its Flora, Fauna and ground-water - many feel - critical-mass is at hand; or the line of demarcation has been breached...

I know this could easily be mistaken for a "glamour shot" photo; give me a break, please: it was

approximatley -20 degrees (f) / with a sinful wind chill; I had been on-site for three hours...

http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/TRIBAL.NSF/6bed3932b9452c4e882568a1006d6b1b/6f117f2cd59818de88256bea007ab98b/$FILE/07-01-09%2007-09%20tribal%20bulletin%20AK%20we_Rev_1.pdf

Reaction to President Obama’s State of the Union Address: Top Priority Must Be Strengthening Economy, Job Creation...

(please follow video stream...)

http://www.youtube.com/SenatorLincoln

I am pleased that tonight the President expressed he shares my top priority: getting
our economy back on track so businesses are creating more jobs for hardworking
Americans. I hope that he will work with Congress over the next year to stay focused
on this critical goal. Since the financial markets collapsed in late 2008 and
triggered an economic recession, we have worked hard to pull the country out of the
ditch, but Arkansans and Americans are still struggling to find employment and
recover a sense of financial security that they enjoyed before 2008.

I believe there are a number of outstanding measures that could provide the tools
and incentives to the private sector to maintain or create new jobs and produce a
favorable economic climate for Arkansans to prosper. We need to pass the highway
bill and the FAA bill, legislation that would provide stability to spur investments
and create jobs. I support sending the President the bipartisan, clean energy
legislation that was produced by the Senate Energy Committee. This bill, coupled
with energy tax incentives, would reduce our dependence on foreign oil and
incentivize renewable energy, all while improving the environment and creating
much-needed jobs.  

I am committed to working with the President and my colleagues on both sides of the
aisle to reduce the national deficit and find responsible ways to cut government
spending. This was also a goal of mine throughout the debate on health insurance
reform where we identified $700 billion in waste, fraud, abuse and other
inefficiencies in our health care system.

The discretionary spending freeze advocated by the President can help us reduce the
deficit, but we must ensure the burden is shared equitably across all government
programs. In addition, I believe the President’s commitment to form a debt reduction
commission is important to getting our nation’s fiscal house back in order. I voted
for the creation of such a commission, and I hope we are able to find a way to move
forward on this initiative this year.

I was pleased to hear the President express his commitment to reforming our nation’s
financial systems. As Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am currently
working with Ranking Member Chambliss and the Banking Committee to produce a
bipartisan bill that puts the necessary safeguards in place to restore confidence in
America’s financial system.  My goal is to require much-needed oversight and
transparency in our financial markets so consumers and businesses across Arkansas
will invest in our economy and in their future growth. We must also embrace new
innovations that will allow us to be a leader in financial markets as we move into
the global economy. 

I share the President’s commitment to strengthening education though additional
investment and reforms. Preparing our future generations for well-paying careers is
critical to our nation’s security and our economic health. 

Throughout my entire career, I have worked diligently to provide tax relief for
Arkansas’s hard working families and small businesses, and I was pleased to hear the
President reaffirm his commitment to doing the same. 

I hope that our efforts in the next year will be truly bipartisan, because the
high-pitched, partisan tone in Washington is not creating jobs, nor is it solving
the health care challenges facing every American, whether it be cost or access. I
believe the American people want us to come together and find common ground to solve
the many challenges facing this country. 

I remain committed to fighting for Arkansas’s hardworking families, small
businesses, and rural communities above all else.

With Arkansas Pride,
Blanche L. Lincoln

Website Address:
http://lincoln.senate.gov/

355 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-4843
Fax (202) 228-1371

912 West Fourth St.
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 375-2993
Fax (501) 375-7064
Toll Free 1-800-352-9364

http://lincoln.senate.gov/#

Hi Nathan... Northwest Arkansas' own:

http://www.windsofchangeit.com/

Do Something Beautiful...

http://www.kab.org/site/PageServer?pagename=index

Sustainable Activity in Arkansas: Upcoming Event of Note...

http://sbnca.org/

SBNCA Inaugural Networking Event; call for RSVP Details, Directions, Dates, Etc...

Sustainable Business Network of Central Arkansas (SBNCA)
1423D Main Street
Little Rock AR 72202
Phone: (501) 773-4233
info@sbnca.org

EPA / DEC Region 10 Brownfields Links:

http://www.epa.gov/epahome/aboutepa.htm

http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/cleanup.nsf/sites/bf

http://www.nwbrownfields-update.com/?q=node/48

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/csp/brownfields.htm

Recent photos from Alaska...

Various EPA Brownfields / Alaskan consulting jobs planned over the next decade:

Article: Jonesboro Sun; Reporter: Mrs. Karin Hill

Eco-friendly area resident heads to Alaska

By Karin Hill

JONESBORO — A Jonesboro businessman with a penchant for science, adventure and saving the planet is picking up and moving to Alaska, where his new job description should satisfy all three of those interests — and many more.

Len Pipkin, owner of Massanelli’s Cleaners in downtown Jonesboro, moved here from Memphis a few years ago to take over the operation of this decades-old business and soon gained notice for its environmentally friendly processes and chemicals.

Pipkin became involved in both local and statewide endeavors to promote environmental stewardship and renewable energy. Last year he became a key player in the Arkansas Wind Working Group and continued to make contacts with individuals and agencies on a national level, learning more about related issues.

One thing led to another, and he received a unique job offer: to become the Kuskokwim Watershed Council’s Alaskan Brownsfield Coordinator. He starts Friday.

The focus of the program is to collaborate with communities in the Kuskokwim River Watershed — an area covering about 58,000 square miles, larger than the state of Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel combined. Pipkin will work with communities to inventory potential brownfield sites, foster public participation in cleanup and reuse of contaminated sites, provide relevant training, maintain a watershed-wide record of contaminated sites for the public to access and assist with an environmental assessment of sites.

Brownfields

Brownfields are contaminated sites that could be targeted for cleanup and redevelopment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a brownfields site is defined as “real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.”

In 2002 Congress passed the Small Business Liability Protection and Brownfields Revitalization Act, which authorized funding for states and tribes to develop response programs to address the assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of brownfields. Since its passage, the Brownfields Law has presented a number of opportunities for the cleanup and reuse of contaminated lands.

Examples of potential brownfields include old or illegal dumps; oil spills; abandoned or idle structures with lead paint, asbestos or other hazardous materials; old fuel storage areas or former gas stations; and mine-scarred land.

Types of reuse could be community centers, parks, staging areas, transfer sites, habitat restoration, and housing.

But his purpose in Alaska won’t be entirely about helping the environment. Much of it will have to do with economics.

“Within the last 16 months, the two largest gold veins in the history of the North American continent have been located, prepped for mining and now are just waiting for the 36 indigenous tribes to work out their differences regarding the matter,” Pipkin said.

Global impact

With all the economic unrest in the world, countries straying from the gold standard and the U.S. dollar, Pipkin said events unfolding around the gold mines — located within his territory — will be one of his major concerns.

“So, aside from the stated brownfields job requirements, my area and territory covered are tasked with three additional social-anthropological areas to attempt to work a bit of magic: the economy — saving the dollar’s value; energy policy — using what source is indigenous to any particular tract of land. Is it to be federally controlled, or continue to be a matter of privatization — where nothing is apparently getting done due to too many vested interests being involved, equaling a state of ceaseless gridlock, too many ulterior motives being manifested by those with the true power to change things for the better ...; and finally, to liaise between the tribes within the areas in question as mediator ... .”

Pipkin said his territory will become one of the world’s hotspots just from a fiduciary standpoint.

“Ditto for renewable energy, etc.,” he said. “Each of us going, in light of what our particular strengths happen to be, are basically being given carte blanche to go to Alaska — imagine an enormous, frigid petri dish — assume and exert influence where necessary, in hoping to create a sustainable model for the lower 48 to follow.”

According to a Kuskokwim Watershed Council press release on Pipkin’s selection for the job, the coordinator would need “GIS capabilities, grant-writing skills, community outreach experience, conflict resolution skills, watershed-water table analytical abilities, a working knowledge of international fishing regulations and maritime law; an extensive grasp of environmental policy, former Bureau of Indian Affairs experience, the ability to speak Russian, and an individual possessing inroads and contacts where many renewable energy sectors are concerned.”

Pipkin, whose resume includes a wide variety of experiences, had picked up some Russian while serving with the U.S. Marines as they trained foreign troops around the time the Soviet Union broke apart. This took place in Alaska, as did his initial cold-weather training with the Marines.

His cold-weather training and love of adventure will be a necessity.

“With my coverage area being approximately 60,000 square miles, and on any day wearing the multiple hats of the White House’s Council on Environmental Quality, the EPA, the Bureau of Indian affairs, various tribal consortiums, the Army Corps of Engineers, but primarily the Kuskokwin River Watershed Council — I could quite possibly find myself in parts unknown for several weeks on end,” Pipkin said.

Pipkin’s wife, Sandie, will handle the business in Jonesboro for the time being. Once their two young daughters have completed the school year at Valley View, she’ll move with them and Pipkin’s mother to Anchorage on a permanent basis.

Pipkin said they have not yet made any decisions regarding the ownership of Massanelli’s. For the time being, he is concentrating on getting established in his new home and preparing to take on much work.

“Yes, my plate is full indeed,” he said. “That is where my motivation to accept the position arises from being equal parts scientist, academic and adventurous outlaw.”

khill@jonesborosun.com

Off to New Orleans...

http://www.brownfieldsconference.org/en/Index.aspx

http://epa.gov/brownfields/bfconf.htm

http://www.brownfieldstsc.org/

Particular Area of Interest...

http://kuskokwimcouncil.org/home.html

11.11.09

After my last speaking engagement in Little Rock, AR, I walked about the state capitol grounds for a while- and  in doing so- ran across certain statuary and inscriptions there-on of interest; with Veteran’s Day approaching,  I hurriedly snapped a few pix, and headed back to Jonesboro.  Service to one’s country is a multi-faceted, myriad layered and wholly unique experience, for better or worse-  to every citizen / soldier, officer / gentleman or young woman whose ever earned their stripes. After a bit of reflection, the photo which follows, was the one monument I felt said more with less (which is a virtue...)! 

Thanks to those of you who forwarded well wishes my way, today; the sentiments expressed were heartfelt and genuine- as is my appreciation.  On behalf of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, though, all I ask of you is at a moment of convenience to remember them: irrespective of party leaning, partisan vitriol or personal affiliations / axes to grind- simply remember them.

Shakespeare proclaimed that: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them- - the subtle nuances contained within the bard’s quip are yours to discern in this arena of ideas. Again, all I ask is that you... remember…

Days ago, several friends of mine returned from a cross country jaunt through New Zealand - photos below. Beforehand, I christened their trip and sent them forth with a solitary request, "Find for me as much information as humanly possible about several architects while there: Ceceile Bonnifait and William Giesen - as well as - their mind blowing eco creation: The Port - a - Batch - website(s) below pics. This is definately one of the top 5 technological / architectural must haves of the young 21st century: a fully mobile, off - grid, pod - like, ultra chic, self sufficient / sustainable lodging - Bravo, Kiwis'!

http://www.atelierworkshop.com/pab-views.htm

http://www.atelierworkshop.com/maint.htm

http://www.port-a-bach.com/

My Ghouls' This Year: Olivia = Vampiress / Posey = Zebra

2009

10 / 2009 Happy Halloween!

I believe for this year's festivities, I'll take the clan back to our state's truly haunted hotel - The Crescent - built circa 1886; if I survive the weekend - speak to you next week...

http://crescent-hotel.com/ghost_stories.htm

http://crescent-hotel.com/bakerstory.htm

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

Central Arkansas' only
GREEN JOBS FAIR!

Free for students & the public!

Date: Wednesday, October 21
Time: 9-11:30am
Location: Donaghey Student Center, UALR

Email sustainability@ualr.edu or call Nancy Landrum at 569-8850 for additional information!

http://srwqis.tamu.edu/arkansas.aspx

September / October 2009

AHHHHH...

Clean once again; this was one hectic / data collection trip where all business was confined to, or, conducted within, the van / lab itself / plus, one quick flight... this lastest endeavor dealing with toxic runoff into our area's watersheds: whether the final resting place of the H2O be lakes, rivers, aquifers, etc. Concrete pipes from seemingly nowhere, emptying sludge into the lakes within State Parks; agribusiness toxicity from herbicides and pesticides - from cotton, rice, corn and soybean feilds along the way taking on the neons of yellow, green and orange when mixed from flash flooding. This trip originated in NW Indiana, then continued into the southern tip of Illinois, a hard left through western Kentucky - and then, my primary area of focus-  following the Mississippi River as it divides Tennessee and Arkansas north to south (basically, from the NE corner of Arkansas, containing Jonesboro, through Helena - West Helena / the Mississippi Delta (much more cotton country here, rather than the rice, soybeans, etc which dominate northern Arkansas). After dropping the materials and samples off to my "moles" in Texas for professional analysis, I hurried home to see the family- then off to take a much needed nap...

If this research provides the facts I am planning to see, coupled with results from my prior work earlier in the year regarding regional bee colonies (CCD) - I may have my 3rd and final Venn Diagram ready to place / overlap the extant two: these are to be the areas (I fear) of confluence / convergence where decades old, military grade, toxic waste is being stored under ground! The Freedom of Information Act has assisted me greatly in clarifying this matter. Also, I can say without fear of recrimination that if my findings do indeed turn out as I foresee them to / bolstered by the work of many more throughout the land: this may become my life's work (a toxic Town Crier). Trust me, folks, had you any idea of the depth and breadth of the literally thousands of utterly toxic dumps and deadly chemicals - directly under our feet-  I know with certainty that our citizens would organize and take to the streets...

http://www.epa.gov/

http://www.epa.gov/watertrain/index.htm

The Best of Both Worlds: Hannah and Lola / Miley and Lilly

http://tv.disney.go.com/disneychannel/hannahmontana/

2010 ENERGY STAR Award Applications Now Available

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=pt_awards.pt_es_awards

Latest award from the Environmental Protection Agency

http://www.epa.gov/

09 / 23 Happy Birthday, Ani - you are not only the voice of our generation, you are, quite simply, my voice; "As Is..."

the most righteous of babes...

xoxo

http://www.righteousbabe.com/

"Despite his apologies, Republicans demanded Jones quit / resign amid "controversy..."

Beg' Pardon?

Regarding this matter, the agent(s) provocateur doth protest too much, methinks; this biased overstep is a true loss for the country, and a rather shameful act on behalf of the chronic gasbags...

Van Jones is a globally recognized, award-winning pioneer in human rights and the clean energy economy. He is a 1993 graduate of the Yale Law School and an attorney.

Van wrote the definitive book on "green jobs": The Green Collar Economy. In 2008 — thanks to a low-cost, viral marketing campaign — his book became an instant New York Times bestseller. It is today being translated into six languages.

As a tireless advocate for disadvantaged people and the environment, Van helped to pass America's first "green job training" legislation: the Green Jobs Act, which George W. Bush signed into law as a part of the 2007 Energy Bill. He is the co-founder of a number of successful non-profit organizations, including the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights and Green For All.

Van is the recipient of many awards and honors, including: the Reebok International Human Rights Award; the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader designation; the prestigious, international Ashoka Fellowship; and many more. Van was included in the Ebony Magazine "Power 150" list of most influential African Americans for 2009. In 2008, Essence magazine named him one of the 25 most inspiring/influential African Americans. TIME Magazine named him an environmental hero in 2008. In 2009, TIME named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

In March 2009, Van went to work as the special advisor for green jobs at the White House Council for Environmental Quality...

http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/

Our regional - ASU farmers' market - is officially up and running for the '09 / '10 season: please support your local growers / friends / economy; the simplicities and complexities that a flourishing, successful market are illustrative of, are the very mother's milk of sustainability. Remember, the next derriere saved, could very well be your own...

And as is inevitably the case, ceaseless gratitude and awe to:

My Seer and Sybil Regarding all things Organic - Karen

Hello, to the Gillow family: Henri, Karen, Matthius, Hannah and Eureka- of Stockholm. Congratulations on Sweden recently assuming the esteemed role of Presidency of the European Union 2009 / 2010; I have often wondered how dramatically different my life, in all imaginable ways, would have varied from the one I now live- had I returned to Sweden with you after Henri's diplomatic stay in the U. S. It's a very surreal, mental exercise. We are all a work in progress turned toward a horizon beyond– some community, some commitment, some justice, some vision, some future– known chiefly through the emblems and signs which pull upon our hopes; reaching into every step of our interpretive journeys; shaping us as surely and mysteriously as the moon pulls the tides. You instilled that into me, and quite a bit of what you predicted, did indeed, manifest. Whatever potential you ever saw in me f i n a l l y did rise to the occasion(s)- it just took about 25 years to do so! I will be in Copenhagen this December; dinner is on me!

http://www.se2009.eu/en/

http://www.se2009.eu/en/the_presidency/work_programme/climate

My spring / summer 2009 Apiary Sciences' apprenticeship is at an end: attempting to formulate further ideas on the myriad causes and possible cures for the agricultural malady known as CCD (Colony Collapse Disorder); the known vectors (mites) responsible for the colony's demise, possible pesticides at fault- and why, interestingly enough- the southeast / midsouth is statistically immune to the collapses seen elsewhere, were the genesis of my primary inquiries; the subject(s) have been observed in their indigenous habitat, statistical data collected, analysis checked and re-checked: hypothesis forthcoming...

http://riley.nal.usda.gov/nal_display/index.php?info_center=8&tax_level=2&tax_subject=10&want_id=1322&topic_id=1006&placement_default=0

http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/jul2009/2009-07-29-094.asp

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090414084627.htm

Woodstock: 40 Years Since the Seeds Were Planted!

Ok, so, here is my quite short but truly sweet anniversary tribute to Woodstock-- perhaps the greatest music event of all time. On August 15, 1969 (but a mere 5 to 6 weeks before my birth) the first notes rang out at the music festival that struck a "chord" around the world: Woodstock. It's now been 40 years since some of the finest musicians of that time, of anytime, performed for a crowd nearly half a million strong, and many of the ideas, philosophies, and dreams that grew from those fields in Bethel, New York (on Max's farm) are still paving the way(s) today. More than just a concert, the event became a stand against an unjust war and utter irrationality; a peaceful revolution  and a cultural forum for ideas and positive global change-- including today's environmental movement, women's rights, sustainability and community. It also sparked the likes of festivals dedicated to making a difference, including Coachella and Bonnaro. So enjoy the weekend full of documentaries and retrospectives-- and remember, if nothing else, to keep the dream alive in your daily actions; and if your vocation allows-- DREAM BIG; because when our self-awareness enables the realization to dawn on you that our mortality is a fait' acompli: dreams die, we die, unless we see the opportunities for change, to whatever degree our means allow, contained within the sacred seconds of life-- every second... 

And in the humble opinion of this former Marine (please, spare me the hate mail and death threats you anonymous miscreants relish in forwarding)-- without question, the utter lunacy of the times was captured, brilliantly, by none other that Country Joe; and to this day-- never has a generation of complete chicken-hawks, rigid ideologues and the pitifully brain-washed received their comeuppance so cleverly. There's a reserved suite, in Rock and Roll Heaven, for Joe over this one lyric alone:

"Well, come on mothers throughout the land,
Pack your boys off to Vietnam.
Come on fathers, don't hesitate,
Send 'em off before it's too late.
Be the first one on your block
To have your boy come home in a box..."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBdeCxJmcAo

Unabashedly Brazen... AMEN! 

A few photos of my girls on their first trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas (national state park)...

http://www.hotsprings.org/

http://www.arkansas.com/state-federal-parks/national-federal-parks/hot-springs.aspx

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_Springs_National_Park

***Recent vote of succor from Vice President Biden, following our introduction in Little Rock, AR- earlier this spring-  and subsequent communique via written correspondence; requesting that I remain active in governmental / environmental affairs, continue to renew his confidence by way of my advocacy, and expressing thanks for my staunch well wishes and ceaseless support***

- - Smokin' Joe, my man!

One of my true, intellectual heroes, Dr. Michio Kaku; a theoretical physicist without peer.

http://mkaku.org/

About the Author:

Dr. Michio Kaku is a theoretical physicist, best-selling author, and popularizer of science. He’s the co-founder of string field theory (a branch of string theory), and continues Einstein’s search to unite the four fundamental forces of nature into one unified theory.

He has appeared on television (Discovery, BBC, ABC, Science Channel, and CNN to name a few), written for popular science publications like Discover, Wired, and New Scientist, been featured in documentaries like Me & Isaac Newton, and hosted many of his own including BBC’s recent series on Time.

Michio continues Einstein’s search for a “Theory of Everything,” seeking to unify the four fundamental forces of the universe—the strong force, the weak force, gravity and electromagnetism.

He holds the Henry Semat Chair and Professorship in theoretical physics at the City College of New York, where he has taught for over 25 years. He has also been a visiting professor at the Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton, as well as New York University.

About the Book:

Physics of the Impossible is a fascinating exploration of the science of the impossible—from death rays and force fields to invisibility cloaks—revealing to what extent such technologies might be achievable decades or millennia into the future.

(review) From Publisher's Weekly:

In this latest effort to popularize the sciences, City University of New York professor and media star [Michio] Kaku ponders topics that many people regard as impossible, ranging from psychokinesis and telepathy to time travel and teleportation. His Class I impossibilities include force fields, telepathy and antiuniverses, which don’t violate the known laws of science and may become realities in the next century. Those in Class II await realization farther in the future and include faster-than-light travel and discovery of parallel universes. Kaku discusses only perpetual motion machines and precognition in Class III, things that aren’t possible according to our current understanding of science. He explains how what many consider to be flights of fancy are being made tangible by recent scientific discoveries ranging from rudimentary advances in teleportation to the creation of small quantities of antimatter and transmissions faster than the speed of light. Science and science fiction buffs can easily follow Kaku’s explanations as he shows that in the wonderful worlds of science, impossible things are happening every day.

100 Coal Plants Prevented or Abandoned:
Movement Sparks Shift to Cleaner Energy and Over 400 Million Fewer Tons of CO2

http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=115741.0

http://www.sierraclub.org/coal/100plants/

Outstanding press Release!

Cheers from the 2010 Senate campaign trail...

http://www.blancheforsenate.com/

Never too early to employ best practices: zero emissions, zero footprint- "scootering" through town- summer, 2009...

Cosmos (1980) was by far and away my favorite television program as a boy; I found this on the computer yesterday and almost fainted: to this day, I quite frankly believe that a more simple, though devastatingly effective, visual metaphor has never been employed.

Sagan was a master at his craft and is missed terribly...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2qezQzfgIY

The Cosmic Calendar!

AQUANET THEATER: PIPKIN-STYLE...

Rockband - summer '09 - acoustic rehersals in Memphis: perfecting our harmonies, tightening the posts and mastering our new synthesyzer; here, Olivia and I are performimg an Aerosmith bootleg copy of "Pink" from 1997 / with the human beatbox...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5p9IgEVM90

Recent, spring 2009 / green issue, cover shot; article below...

http://lincoln.senate.gov/newsroom/2009-7-2-1.cfm 

Pres Release: An additional 97k for A. State from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration.  The money will fund the third year of a three-year University Center program at Arkansas State University. The program focuses on providing technical assistance and research and development tools to help increase productivity, spur innovation and entrepreneurship, and increase long-term economic regional competitiveness

(See you folks, Saturday, 1:00 pm, July 4th, for a taste of southern "Americana" at its best: the 104th Annual Portia, Arkansas Picnic...)

Senator Lincoln and Representative Berry will be on hand, to razzle and dazzle the NEA crowd in their own, inimitable styles:

Saturday, July 4 Piggott, Corning, Portia, Jonesboro, Caraway (regional sched)...

9:00 AM Lincoln will participate in Piggott’s 82nd Annual Fourth of July Parade.

12:00 PM Lincoln will speak at the Corning Courthouse as part of Corning’s 65th Annual Homecoming Parade and Picnic.

1:30 PM Lincoln will attend the 104th Portia Picnic.

3:00 PM Lincoln will attend “Fourth in the Forrest” at Craighead Forrest Park in Jonesboro.

4:30 PM Lincoln will deliver a speech at Caraway’s annual Fourth of July picnic.

Nothing Gold Can Stay

Nature’s first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf,
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day
Nothing gold can stay...

--R. Frost

Olivia, the youngest of my two daughters, turns 5
today - 06.22.2009 - and the photos below are from 
just a few of the festivities - after spending the 
weekend - in Memphis - at my parent's house; we swam, 
rode our bikes; Olivia received her latest drumming 
lessons - to my chagrin, her favorite artist 
(Jimi Hendrix) has been wrongfully, very wrongfully usurped by, 
dare I utter the words(?)(Lipps Inc. / disco era tunes); 
Posey continues to amaze on the pc with her stellar skills- she's writing code( at 6 ); 
and of course, cake, ice cream, presents, fun, frivolity, sugar highs, etc...

Stay gold, my angels, please, stay gold!

"Your descendants shall gather your fruits."

— Virgil

"In the Zone": Preparing my Commentary to be Delivered in Denmark...

http://www.visitcopenhagen.com/

http://unfccc.int/2860.php?plus=j

2009 pdf / eco schedule: The Road to Copenhagen...

http://www.sealthedeal2009.org/Road-to-Copenhagen-Calender.pdf

Maps...

http://unfccc.int/secretariat/map_and_directories/items/2748.php

"The ultimate test of man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something
today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard."

— Gaylord Nelson
former governor of Wisconsin, co-founder of Earth Day

http://www.sealthedeal2009.org/

Seal the Deal Signatory:

RECENT SIGNATURES                 Number of signatures: 1700
6/14/2009 len pipkin (united states of america)
6/14/2009 klaus albrecht (germany)
6/14/2009 robert posch (germany)
6/14/2009 jenny riecke (germany)
6/14/2009 viivi erkkilä (finland)
6/14/2009 johan eriksson (sweden)
6/14/2009 leslie korb (united states of america)
6/14/2009 simon haagen (germany)
6/14/2009 sandra marbes (germany)
6/14/2009 grit jaster (germany)
6/14/2009 gisa jaster (germany)
6/14/2009 tom jaster (germany)
6/14/2009 gerd jaster (germany)
6/14/2009 alison dunn (United Kingdom)
6/14/2009 ingrid schäper-bunk (germany)
6/14/2009 henrik schollmeier (germany)
6/14/2009 janine heinsch (germany)
6/14/2009 gesine wieder (germany)
6/14/2009 george garcia (germany)
6/14/2009 wilhelm erhard (germany)
6/14/2009 tobias melle (germany)
6/14/2009 carina sperk (germany)
6/14/2009 katja zeltner (germany)
6/14/2009 abhishek shrestha (nepal)
6/14/2009 stephanie ng (singapore)
6/14/2009 jana bunk (germany)
6/14/2009 stephan kauschka (germany)
6/14/2009 hary prinz (austria)
6/14/2009 axel (germany)
6/14/2009 david vigar (United Kingdom)
6/14/2009 martine-nicole rojina (germany)
6/14/2009 dorothee deller (germany)
6/14/2009 christoph kandlbinder (germany)
6/14/2009 climate-lie co2-lie (germany)
6/14/2009 konstanze aydi (germany)
6/14/2009 nicole schwalm (germany)
6/14/2009 uta fasold (germany)
6/14/2009 birgit dünwald (germany)
6/14/2009 stefan janzik (germany)
6/14/2009 karin ebert (germany)

Your role has never been more crucial -- or more greatly
appreciated.

Thank you for your continued support and invaluable activism.

Sincerely,

David Yarnold
President, Environmental Defense Action Fund

YES!!! My kind of Mayor... lp

Recent Cover Story in Occasions Magazine - April, 2009

http://www.jonesborooccasions.com/coverapr09.html

April 2009
Cover Story
Story by Susan O'Connor, Photos by Dero Sanford

Len Pipkin is a man on a “green” mission. In the past several years he has not only worked to implement environmentally friendly practices into his business, Massanelli’s Cleaners and Laundry, but has traveled countless miles across the U.S. educating himself about green issues, most specifically renewable energy.

A Memphis native and educator himself with a master’s degree in exceptional student education from Barry University in Miami, Pipkin now is educating others about sustainable energy — all on a volunteer basis.

“We have to take ownership of where we are — whether we are responsible for it or not,” said the exceedingly articulate former U.S. Marine. “We must set a course of where we want to go and do whatever is necessary to make it happen.”

Pipkin’s mission started with Massanelli’s and has evolved from there.
“We have, and continue to use, a natural petroleum solvent,” Pipkin said. “The solvent is gentle without sacrificing its cleaning capabilities, making it superior for our clothes and safer for the environment. Green will slowly be incorporated into every facet of Massanelli’s Cleaners, which is leading the small business community in awareness and commitment to the environment.”

Massanelli’s uses this biodegradable solvent as opposed to perchloroethylene, a potential carcinogen used by many dry cleaners nationwide.

Other examples of the business’ green bent are: painting with low VOC materials; using low-energy light bulbs exclusively via a green procurement arrangement with all vendors; recycling hangers to a much greater degree; giving customers reusable delivery bags; and offering the choice of degradable poly bags or no bags on cleaned garments.

But much more interesting than green dry cleaning is Pipkin’s true passion: working in every way possible to make a difference in the world around him through action and education.

“It is just a right and worthy cause, whether I’m able see the results in my lifetime or not,” he said of his efforts. “My kids and grandkids and the community will reap the benefits.”

Last year was a blur of travel for Pipkin, including the following “green” itineraries:

• July 2008 — Leadership program at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo. Sessions covered topics such as renewable utility applications, biofuels and transportation and energy efficient building applications, as well as in-depth review of future energy markets and analysis tools for renewable energy and energy efficiency applications.

• September 2008 — Green Jobs Now rally in Little Rock, a networking fair that offered students at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock an opportunity to investigate employment opportunities offered by sustainable companies that are part of the growing movement to curb greenhouse gas emissions, eliminate toxins and protect natural systems.

• November 2008 — Green Festival in Washington, D.C., a joint project of the Global Exchange and Green America that celebrated what is working throughout this country for people, business and the environment.

Pipkin also attended the Net Impact North America Conference in Philadelphia, a symposium that featured speakers on such topics as corporate social responsibility, energy and the environment, international development, social impact finance and social entrepreneurship.

Also in November, in an effort to help procure international institutions willing to partner with institutions of higher learning in Arkansas, Pipkin attended the U.S-European Union workshop in Atlanta, securing one of approximately 300 lay seats at the conference.

“In an increasingly globalized economy, science and technology careers extend beyond national boundaries,” he explained. “Universities and research institutes worldwide are addressing these developments by setting up exchange programs, double and/or joint degrees and foreign campuses. Several EU-U.S. co-operation ventures promote the training and mobility of researchers and are likely to be further developed.

• February 2009 — meeting with Sen. Blanche Lincoln in Washington, D.C., to “lobby for our state’s fair share of the stimulus/reinvestment package.”

• March 2009 — Pipkin was invited to speak to business students and staff at UALR concerning “ethical, scrupulous, environmentally friendly business practices and philosophies, the state of renewable energy sectors within Arkansas and a basic, extemporaneous discussion on what trends I see, what opportunities should manifest and where I would position myself as an entrepreneur ahead of the ‘green’ boom to be arriving within our state over the next 12 to 24 months, then logically taking the trends five years, 10 years, 20 years, etc.”

Chair of Arkansas’ Renewable Energy Division environmental education and outreach committee, Pipkin feels strongly about his cause, and points to serious consequences for future generations if we fail to live responsibly today.

“Folks, if we truly desire for our children and grandchildren to live in a tangible, actualized 21st century community, it’s incumbent upon those in seats imbued with decision-making authority to make it so. This isn’t rocket science — it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy. One ending is auspicious, indeed; the other having irrevocable and irreversible outcomes.”

Lecturing at UALR: March / 2009

Ladies and Gents: Thank you so very much for the kindness, attentiveness and interest afforded me this morning. Please know that in spite of my rambling, unorthodox, unpolished presentation skills, I tried my best to make the commentary properly hopeful - tried to illustrate an alternative way of operating an industry which I find to be, although experimental, more fully alive and durable. Geography, history, leadership, party affiliations, economic systems and advantages that we traditionally tend to base the concept of success upon are marginal at best; illusory at their worst. Community relationships, the cohesion amongst citizens are the benchmarks by which to measure the genuine well-being of any given area: choosing to be accountable, creating contexts of hospitality and possibility, these are the actions that bring the gifts of those on the margins to the center; this is power; through community, your caring for one another brings forth what is desired. That's the essence and impetus behind my lecturing at UALR today, I care about you. Some people go days, weeks, months, years, at times, longer, never having someone convey that they care for them. If that's the case with anyone I encountered today, that's tragic, but, more importantly, at an end. Never forget the "bridge generation" analogy; know that I arise daily and toil for outcomes I very well may not live to see fully realized - for you. Peace, love and understanding create community; creation implies action: Get Active - Tag, You're It... lp

"It's time to take a stand,
Brothers and sisters join hands..."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcU57tAKzng

Please join me in Little Rock, AR, this weekend - March 14th - for Senator Lincoln's Re-Election Kickoff Celebration!

Governor Beebe

Senator Lincoln

Vice President Biden

Joe Biden to visit Arkansas for Lincoln fundraiser...

Lincoln's re-election campaign says Biden will come to Little Rock on March 14 for an event at the Peabody Hotel.

Lincoln, D-Ark., will be seeking her third term as a senator in the 2010 election. No one from either the Democratic or Republican party has so far announced plans to contest her re-election.

http://www.peabodylittlerock.com/

Thanks again, Len, for speaking out so aggressively, logically, passionately and persuasively against the critical environmental problems of our times; best of luck in Little Rock. 

Laurie David,
Founder; www.stopglobalwarming.org

Upcoming Itinerary, for Little Rock, AR; March - 2009

http://ualr.edu/management/index.php/nelandrum

http://www.businessexpertpress.com/node/77

http://www.cob.ualr.edu/cbadirectory/data/nelandrum.html

Wednesday, March 18th, 11 a.m. to approx 12:15 p.m. College of Business Lecture; followed by an over-arching presentation to faculty and staff on the current state of Renewable Energy (specifically wind energy, wind - farm siting and financing) within AR...

Len Pipkin will speak to Dr. Landrum's: MGMT 4385 "Special Topics in Management - Sustainable Business" students on the following topics:

*The EPA

*Sustainability in four specific areas: government, outreach within the educational continuum, the local business community and nurturing stakeholder worth / creation of an engaged citizenry

*Natural advantage

*Organic growth

*Symbiosis

*Risk - Aversion

*Inter - Generational Equity

*Bio - Mimicary

Swaggerty Creek Clean Up / Restoration: Sat, March 14th

Ecological Conservation Organization
120 S. Cross St.
Little Rock, AR  72201

Swaggerty Creek, running through Crump Park on W 33rd St., Little Rock, AR, is a small tributary of Fourche Creek. ECO restored the creek to a more natural state, several years back, that encourages bio-diversity and natural habitat to indigenous species.

Unfortunately, like most restored natural areas, maintenance is a continuing, though very necessary, reality.

A request for help in removal of ragweed and trash in the restoration area has been issued to all environmentally minded folk.

Appropriate attire (such as jeans, long sleeve shirts, gloves, and outdoor shoes or boots) is essential. Also very helpful would be industrial garbage bags (for trash collection), machetes (yes!), and hip waders (for litter in the water); the latter two making for one hell of a fashion statement - ha ha...

Our meeting place will be in the Crump Park parking lot at 9 a.m.; clean up will continue through 5 p.m. If you can make it anytime within the given time parameter - it would be greatly appreciated - unless you arrive at, say, at 4:45 p.m.; in that instance, remember, some on hand will have... machetes'!!!

A lunch break will take place around noon. Hope to see both old friends and new acquaintances there!

Follow link and ask for Mr. Ben Thesing with any inquiries.

http://www.ecoconservation.org/

http://www.juhlwind.com/

http://www.tradewindenergy.com/

http://www.deere.com/en_US/deerecom/usa_canada.html

Headed to Woodstock, Minnesota, Kansas City, Missouri and Des Moines, Iowa - all - within the next 10 days, or so (?):

Major announcement(s), keep your fingers crossed, upon my return: stay tuned for details...

"The future is today": MLK, JR.

http://www.emagazine.com/view/?4502

02.19.2009 -- Mayor Perrin Reads Jonesboro's "Sesquicentennial
Proclamation" upon the steps of City Hall...

http://www.jonesborosun.com/archived_story.php?ID=37031

the "Star Spangled Banner" was performed, a Capella, by Raven Goodrich of our Regional Chamber of Commerce: Bravo!!!

http://www.jonesborochamber.org/view/527

At Recent Gathering in Arkansas: Len and Josh

Letter to the Editor

Jonesboro Sun, Friday, February 6^th, 2009

"Turning point now..."

It has happened before. When we look back at great turning points, the movements within the storied arc of history within Western civilization, to include our very own national narrative as well, we see that each was driven by a unique confluence of events: a society ripe for change; a new generation ready to drive that change; the emergence of one or a few local, state, and national leaders to articulate needs and set agendas; and in many instances, technological or economic shifts that made innovative action a possibility.

From the European Enlightenment: The Power of Technology; The Industrial Revolution: Economic Creativity; The American Revolution: The Spark of a Powerful Issue; The Abolition of Slavery: A Spiritual Awakening; The Progressive Movement: Social Reform Reshaping Politics; The Freedom Movements of the Twentieth Century: The People Rising up. It can, and is, happening again now in the form of a Sustainability Revolution.

A new day has dawned, a doorway has presented itself before us; all we must simply, though bravely, do is place our irrevocable trust in one another and cross the threshold together into a blindingly bright unknown: one completely rife with untapped environmental stewardship opportunities coupled with a dynamic, robust, economic growth where sustainability proves to be a win-win scenario for all involved stakeholders; diverse facets coexisting in a symbiotic, synergistic union heretofore unrealized throughout Arkansas.

Wind energy, solar power, fuels manufactured from vegetative waste byproducts, industry becoming operational from geothermal heat drawn from the earth’s very core, mankind’s garbage fueling modes of mass transit-public transportation; no longer science fiction, rather reality, these technologies exist and are headed to our great state far more quickly than most can comprehend.

Sight vs. vision is the concept to keep uppermost in mind within the coming years. Indeed, this long-term, incremental implementation, visionary approach will be the first step to making the rearrangement of Jonesboro so. Few of us can scarcely imagine the worlds in which our grandparents and parents came of age within; conversely, imagine the world in which our children and grandchildren will come of age. We are but one brief generation in the long, inexorable march of time. Their hopes and dreams are not ours to either preclude or eradicate through short-sightedness.

The future is now. With gratitude toward those who preceded us, and with blessings toward those to follow, join me in walking the path to the next phase in our societal evolution — arm and arm.

Len Pipkin

Jonesboro

http://www.jonesborosun.com/letters.php

Jonesboro's Chamber of Commerce Gathering at the Peabody, in Little Rock, AR 02 / 2009

Len and Ann

On the Hill with Senator Lincoln (D-AR), Lobbying for Equitable, Renewable Energy Appropriations

I just wanted to let everyone know that my visit with Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-Arkansas) has been finalized:

Thursday, February 5th at 10am.

If you go to her website lincoln.senate.gov you will see that she recently co-sponsored the "Rural Revitalization Act of 2009"; taken in conjunction with the upcoming stimulus package, I hope to return to Jonesboro with concrete answers as to how this will affect our city, county and state; what criteria were used in the prioritizing and allocation of funds and when said monies could realistically be expected to arrive in our citizenry's hands...

Also, I am hoping to obtain answers to questions regarding renewable energy and sustainability: those germane to tax incentives for investors within these myriad sectors, the creation of a renewable energy portfolio for our city / state, the need for strategically positioned sustainability officers throughout Arkansas and the functions that would fall under said individual(s) purview's, green job corps implementation, the prospect of expanding our mass transit system, carbon sequestration methods / progress within existing coal plants and the time-tables regarding funds being appropriated for immediate infrastructure needs.

If anyone should desire to speak with me while I am in D.C. meeting with the Senator, members of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, as well as, members of the Department of Agriculture - do not hesitate in contacting me via my blackberry; I plan on leaving for the nation's capitol by the close of business 02.02.09...

Posey and Olivia

Photo Flashback:

Spring 2008; Father and Daughters at the Lake...

I hope to see everyone in D.C. - February 4th - 6th...

http://www.greenjobsconference.org/site/c.rvI3IiNWJqE/b.3820537/k.BE92/Home.htm

Media / Graphic arts ad created for local publication...

Len Pipkin: Presidential Climate Action Project Signatory, "A Letter to the Next President..."

http://www.climateactionproject.com/index.php

http://www.climateactionproject.com/docs/next_president_letter.pdf

http://www.climateactionproject.com/letter/sign.php#p

Photovoltaic Field Work at NREL

Dear Len,
 
 Thank you for telling Congress to support a moratorium on new coal power
 plants. Your letter will help draw Congress' attention to the Tennessee
 Coal Sludge Spill and the need to prevent similar disasters in the future
 by abandoning dirty coal and embracing clean energy once and for all.
 
 Thanks again,
 
 Gillian Caldwell
 Campaign Director, 1Sky
 

http://www.unitedmountaindefense.org/

http://action.1sky.org/t/1981/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=872

The following letter was delivered, personally, to Arkansas’ Governor Beebe, December 9, 2008; the press conference / hearing was conducted in the State Capitol Building’s (see photo below) former Supreme Court Room. By proxy, I was the northeastern Arkansas delegate to speak on the record for those in opposition to the SWEPCO “clean coal plant” in production in southwestern Arkansas; esteemed members were in the chamber from the Sierra Club, the Audubon Society, the medical community; respected biologists and economists as well as members of the Governor’s own Climate Initiative personnel were, all, equally persuasive and passionate …

Actions and deeds at this juncture are truly beginning to disagree with Mr. Beebe’s own written word(s); contradictions abound; and a total abrogation of decision making powers which, legislatively, do indeed fall under his direct purview - are becoming an all too commonplace occurrence. I fear that, ultimately, the quite honorable Governor may - inadvertently - be “hoisted by his own petard…”