Hello, Mr. Soul

[H2O Man]

It's the countdown to the meeting at the Pace Law Clinic in White Plains. I've coordinated a meeting of grass roots leaders from around the state -- Albany, Binghamton, Ithaca, NYC, and Rochestor, and from small towns, hamlets, and rural dirt roads -- with environmental attorney Robert Kennedy, Jr., some folks from RiverKeeper, and hopefully NRDC.

The topic of discussion is, of course, the extreme environmental threats posed by hydrofracking for gas. These threats include poisoning the land, air, and water .... which would poison the plants and animals, including human beings.

Governor Andrew Cuomo, recently identified as the "most popular governor" in the nation, is preparing to decide to either give horizontal drilling the okay, or to extend the "no fracking" period for more in-depth health studies. That decision will go a long way in determining if Cuomo remains popular with the democratic base, or if he wants to run for president in 2016 as a Dick Cheney Democrat.

Governor Cuomo has repeatedly insulted both sides of the hydrofracking controversy, by claiming they base their positions on "fear and emotions." In fact, we will be presenting Robert with material to give to Andrew that includes: the recent US Geological Services report that highlights the severe dangers of hydrofracking in New York; numerous university studies that document, beyond question, the environmental damage that fracking has done in Ohio and Pennsylania; along with statements by attornies, physicians, and professors from across the state, in opposition to hydrofracking.

While I cannot say for certain that the wide range of citizens who are actively opposed to hydrofracking can place Andrew Cuomo in the White House in 2016, I can say without question that if he sides with the Cheneyites, we will be sure to send him to the dog house.

[H2O Man]

1. PS:

A DU report will follow the meeting.

[bigtree]

2. I like the way you put that

What 'material' of his own do you think Robert will bring to the table? Does he have a group or team of experts that he's relying on, or are you and your cadre the only source of opposition research he's relying on? Do you know? I'm, of course, interested where he's going to come down, ultimately, I know you have confidence in him.

[H2O Man]

3. Based upon my

most recent conversation with Robert, I know he takes the issue very seriously. His role as a member of his (ex) brother-in-law's advisory committee provides him with both advantages and disadvantages. One of the problems, at least in my opinion, is that this committee has primarily had NYS Department of Environmental Conservation information on hydrofracking. And, while the vast majority of DEC employees are sincere, dedicated environmental advocates, the heads of the agency are advocating for the gas industry.

I have information from a now-retired DEC engineer that I am sure that Robert hasn't read ....but he will, tomorrow. And a university professor who has done extensive studies of the negative health impacts of hydrofracking -- especially on children -- is accompanying us. As is a group of high school students .... including one who lives on a farm that has been in his family since the early 1800s ..... and I'm providing him with a Cornell University study that documents the terrible effects that hydrofracking has on dairy cattle.

As you know, I think highly of Robert. And so I'm happy for this opportunity to have a group of grass roots experts and outstanding individuals to meet with him. I'm confident that we are all working to reach the same place. Sometimes, our different backgrounds and situations mandate that we take different paths to reach that goal .... but tomorrow, our paths cross.

[bigtree]

8. so,

you have a vital mission.

I hope it's received with the seriousness and an appreciation of the cautions and damaging effects on our environment that you intend to convey with your research material. It's very interesting to have Robert involved. All the best.

[hootinholler]

9. Are those studies available online?

Especially the effects on cattle. If we can get the farmers on board...

[boston bean]

4. Very good, H2O Man!

Thank you so much for doing what you are doing!

[H2O Man]

5. Thanks!

This should be an outstanding day!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

6. My dear H20 Man!

Before I even read your post, I had recommended it.

I can do this because I know the strength and power of your statements.

Go get 'em!

[H2O Man]

7. Thanks!

I appreciate that!

And I'm ready to go!

[spanone]

10. k&r...

[H2O Man]

16. Thanks!

[One of the 99]

11. Cuomo is a sellout.

Don't expect much from him.

[H2O Man]

17. I fully expect

the worst from Andrew Cuomo. My opinion of him is much lower than of a mere sell-out. Hence, every approach/tactic is come to with that in mind.

If a man speaks French, you cannot communicate with him by speaking Chinese. You have to speak the language that he understands. I am confident that he will hear what we have to say today; even though he will not be at this meeting, word will get back.

[Uncle Joe]

12. Kicked and recommended.

Thanks for the thread, H20 Man.

[lunatica]

13. I wish you immense success!

[rocktivity]

14. Still a good song -- or should I say "Stills" a good song?

Last edited Mon Apr 16, 2012, 09:44 PM - Edit history (3)

Isn't that Steve Stills doing all that strutting around back there?

rocktivity

[H2O Man]

15. One advantage of

getting up at 3am is that one can listen to the peepers (frogs) singing, while relaxing with a cup of coffee. Now it's time to get ready and head out.

[H2O Man]

18. Outta the park .....

one of the most outstanding days of my life as a grass roots activist/community organizer. just f'ing unbelievable.