THE GOOSE STORY
Author Unknown
Next fall, when you see geese heading south for the winter, flying along in ‘V formation, think about what science has learned about why they fly that way.
As each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following it.
By flying in a ‘V formation, the whole flock can fly at least 71% farther than if each bird flew on its own.
Perhaps people who share a common direction can get where they are going quicker and easier if they cooperate.
When a goose falls out of formation, it feels the resistance of trying to go it alone, and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of flying with the flock.
If we have as much sense as a goose, we will work with others who are going the same way we are.
When the lead goose gets tired, he rotates back in the wing and another goose flies on the point.
It pays to take turns doing hard jobs for our group.
The geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
Finally, (get this) when a goose weakens or is wounded and falls out of formation, two geese fall out with him to help and protect him.
They stay with him until he is either able to fly or until he is dead, and they then set out on their own or in another formation until they catch up with the group.
If we had the sense of a goose, we would stand by each other like that.
OBSERVATIONS and LIFE LESSONS
Observation #1: As each goose flutters its wings, it creates an updraft for the bird following it in the V-formation of migration. By flying in this V-formation, the geese are able to migrate further than if each bird flew unaccompanied.
Observation #2: When the lead goose tires, it peels off the point position and rotates back into the V-formation. Another goose then steps up and takes its turn fighting in the wind from the point position.
Observation #3: The lead goose (on the point) never honks. The geese behind the leader continue to honk praise and encouragement to the lead goose.
Observation #4: Sometimes two or three geese break away from the formation in order to look for a better wind current or a more creative and better way to fly.
Observation #5: When a goose gets sick or wounded and has to go down to land. Two other geese fall out of the formation and go with it to support and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to return to the formation. Then the “escort” geese try to catch up with their own flock or another formation of geese. Life’s Lesson #1: People who share a common vision and sense of a common direction go further and faster by supporting one another.
Life Lesson#2: It pays to take turns delegating critical task to team members. It also allows everyone in an organization to grow.
Life Lesson #3: The power of praise plus recognition is critical to success as people work together on significant projects in an organization.
Life Lesson #4: An effective organization believes in constantly experimenting with new ways at methods. In today’s environment, teamwork is an absolute necessity.
Life Lesson #5: When tasks are tough we need to support one another. Delegation plus teamwork require follow-up, dialogue and support.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Day 5: A Day of Respect to Our Country's Famous Leaders and Those Who Have Served
The morning began with a visit to the Iwo Jima also known as the Marine Corp memorial. Here we watched the Marines practice for their Sunset Parade.
Next, we headed to Arlington National Cemetery. Our tour took us to President John F. Kennedy's grave, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers and the Arlington House. We watched the reverent ceremony of the changing of the guards and we witnessed a fighter jet fly over for the burial of a veteran. It was a beautiful but sobering experience.
After our tour we headed to the National Archives this is where the original drafts of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights are kept. They are in a large room for viewing, but these documents can be protected from disasters and attacks because they are placed in secured vaults.
We spent the rest of the afternoon touring the memorials and monuments. We saw the World War II, Washington, Lincoln, Vietnam War, and Korean War memorials. We also, drove past the Albert Einstein statue. Then it was off to the Pentagon City Mall for dinner, shopping and relaxation!
Next, we headed to Arlington National Cemetery. Our tour took us to President John F. Kennedy's grave, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers and the Arlington House. We watched the reverent ceremony of the changing of the guards and we witnessed a fighter jet fly over for the burial of a veteran. It was a beautiful but sobering experience.
After our tour we headed to the National Archives this is where the original drafts of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights are kept. They are in a large room for viewing, but these documents can be protected from disasters and attacks because they are placed in secured vaults.
We spent the rest of the afternoon touring the memorials and monuments. We saw the World War II, Washington, Lincoln, Vietnam War, and Korean War memorials. We also, drove past the Albert Einstein statue. Then it was off to the Pentagon City Mall for dinner, shopping and relaxation!
Day 4: Youth Day, Smithsonian and Boat Cruise
The day was jammed pack with exciting activities. We started with the Youth Rally.
Emily was introduce on stage as our 2008 Youth Leadership Council Representative! She made Louisiana proud. The rest of us livened up the place by chanting our cheer!
During the rally, we were introduced to how the electric cooperatives got their start. Actor David Landis reenacted Senator Norris's life story about his life growing up on a farm with no electricity and how he went to Congress to make a difference.
We also learned about the NRECA's Our Energy, Our Future campaign. We were encourage to go to Capitol Hill and ask the tough questions that will make a difference in our futures and our energy bills.
The rally ended with a motiviational speech from Mike Schlappi. He had an inspiring message for every American, young or old: "Just because you can't stand up, doesn't mean you can't stand out." At the age of 14, Schlappi was student body president and an Eagle Scout, and was dreaming of a career as a top American athlete when he was involved in a tragic shooting accident. Doctors told him he would never walk again, but after months of rigorous therapy, he began playing basketball from his wheelchair and went on to become an athletic standout.
Schlappi is a four-time Paralympic Medalist and two-time World Champion in Wheelchair Basketball. The only wheelchair basketball player in the United States to be on four consecutive summer Paralympic teams, Schlappi was honored by the state of Utah in 2000 as one of its Top 50 athletes of the past century.
After the rally we spent the afternoon at the Smithsonian. We were allowed to explore the many museums in the area. Everyone found something they were interested in whether it was the Air and Space , Natural History, Native American, are one of the many art museums. Unfortunately, at the same time we were scheduled to board the bus and huge storm came through. Some of us got very wet, but we all made it back to the bus safely and we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the boat cruise.
Luck was on our side! When we arrived at the docks the weather cleared up and the boat was able to sail. We had a blast. Some of us enjoyed partying on the dance floor. Some watched the beautiful city go by from the observation deck as we sailed down the Potomac River. It was great to meet some many people from different states. We traded beads and pins while getting to know about other people's homes and cultures.
Emily was introduce on stage as our 2008 Youth Leadership Council Representative! She made Louisiana proud. The rest of us livened up the place by chanting our cheer!
During the rally, we were introduced to how the electric cooperatives got their start. Actor David Landis reenacted Senator Norris's life story about his life growing up on a farm with no electricity and how he went to Congress to make a difference.
We also learned about the NRECA's Our Energy, Our Future campaign. We were encourage to go to Capitol Hill and ask the tough questions that will make a difference in our futures and our energy bills.
The rally ended with a motiviational speech from Mike Schlappi. He had an inspiring message for every American, young or old: "Just because you can't stand up, doesn't mean you can't stand out." At the age of 14, Schlappi was student body president and an Eagle Scout, and was dreaming of a career as a top American athlete when he was involved in a tragic shooting accident. Doctors told him he would never walk again, but after months of rigorous therapy, he began playing basketball from his wheelchair and went on to become an athletic standout.
Schlappi is a four-time Paralympic Medalist and two-time World Champion in Wheelchair Basketball. The only wheelchair basketball player in the United States to be on four consecutive summer Paralympic teams, Schlappi was honored by the state of Utah in 2000 as one of its Top 50 athletes of the past century.
After the rally we spent the afternoon at the Smithsonian. We were allowed to explore the many museums in the area. Everyone found something they were interested in whether it was the Air and Space , Natural History, Native American, are one of the many art museums. Unfortunately, at the same time we were scheduled to board the bus and huge storm came through. Some of us got very wet, but we all made it back to the bus safely and we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the boat cruise.
Luck was on our side! When we arrived at the docks the weather cleared up and the boat was able to sail. We had a blast. Some of us enjoyed partying on the dance floor. Some watched the beautiful city go by from the observation deck as we sailed down the Potomac River. It was great to meet some many people from different states. We traded beads and pins while getting to know about other people's homes and cultures.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Computer Problems
We are experiencing computer problems. If we can get it fixed, more post will follow. Sorry about the delay.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Day 3: Natural Bridge and Washington DC
Today was Jessica's 18th birthday. Her family surprised her with a bag full of gifts, but they were also nice enough to treat everyone in our group with candy and water guns. We are going to have lots of fun with these treats! Thank you Jessica's parents!
The Natural Bridge is one of the seven wonders of the world. We were all amazed by this beautiful work of nature.
Here are our cave dwellers!
Congratulations Emily! Emily was selected as our 2008 Youth Leadership Council Delegate. She will represent our great state of Louisiana on stage tomorrow and at the National Rural Electric Cooperative's Annual Meeting! Good Luck Emily with your duties in the upcoming year. Make us proud!
The Natural Bridge is one of the seven wonders of the world. We were all amazed by this beautiful work of nature.
Here are our cave dwellers!
Congratulations Emily! Emily was selected as our 2008 Youth Leadership Council Delegate. She will represent our great state of Louisiana on stage tomorrow and at the National Rural Electric Cooperative's Annual Meeting! Good Luck Emily with your duties in the upcoming year. Make us proud!
Day 2: On the Road...All Day
We headed out of Baton Rouge bright and early Saturday morning. We slept most of the time and watched movies. We had a good trip with great weather. We spent the night in Knoxville, TN. The highlight of the day was a festive Mexican dinner at a local restaurant. Some of us even enjoyed virgin margaritas and virgin daiquiris!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Day 1: Orientation and Getting Reacquainted
We spent the evening getting reacquainted with our friends we made in March at the Leadership Conference. We had a great dinner at the hotel and Mrs. Sandy went over the itentary and what we can expect in the upcoming week. Katherine last year's Youth Leadership Council representative came to talk about her Youth Tour trip and all the doors it opened for her this past year. We ended the night hanging out and swimming. We even enjoyed a game of Marco Polo in the pool. The trip is off to a great start! Stay tuned and check out our photo gallery at http://youthtour.smugmug.com/
Friday, June 13, 2008
Photo Gallery
Each day I will be posting photos to the Youth Tour Photo gallery. Go to the following website: http://youthtour.smugmug.com/ and click on 2008 Youth Tour Gallery. Then click on Louisiana. Enjoy! Also stay tuned to this blog.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Pack as Light as Possible
I know we are going to be gone for a long time, but remember we have to unload the bus serveral times. You might want to call your roommates and see if there are any items you all can share. You do not need to pack towels or hair dryers...the hotel provides those items. The only time you may need a towel or wet wipes is on Thursday when we are traveling home on the bus because we do not stop at a hotel that night.
Have we mentioned before to pack comfortable shoes? Yes I know you are tired of hearing us say that, but it's the most important item you will pack for this trip.
A great way to help you pack for this trip is to use the iternary along with the dress code guide Mrs. Sandy gave you. Then decide what you are going to wear for each day.
Pack for Friday, Saturday and Sunday in a small carry on bag and then pack the rest of the week in a larger bag.
Have we mentioned before to pack comfortable shoes? Yes I know you are tired of hearing us say that, but it's the most important item you will pack for this trip.
A great way to help you pack for this trip is to use the iternary along with the dress code guide Mrs. Sandy gave you. Then decide what you are going to wear for each day.
Pack for Friday, Saturday and Sunday in a small carry on bag and then pack the rest of the week in a larger bag.
Electronic Device Policy
Sometimes we just need a reminder--
Items such as cell phones, Ipod/mp3 players, laptops, DVD players etc. should only be used during appropriate times. Electronic devices should never be used while a chaperone is giving instructions, during elected official visits, meals, touring, or presentations. A chaperone will advise you when it is appropriate to use such items. Personal cell phone calls should only be made/received in your rooms before breakfast or at night after room check. (It is probably a good idea to let your parents know that you will only call them in the evenings once you have returned to your room.) We recommend you bring your cell phones with you only for emergency purposes or to assist the chaperones or other groups in locating each other. Keep in mind if you do not recognize a number calling you it may be a chaperone trying to get in touch with you.
Disobeying this policy will result in you losing your cell phone the remainder of the trip. As well has having to call your parents to inform them why you no longer have a cell phone during the trip.
Items such as cell phones, Ipod/mp3 players, laptops, DVD players etc. should only be used during appropriate times. Electronic devices should never be used while a chaperone is giving instructions, during elected official visits, meals, touring, or presentations. A chaperone will advise you when it is appropriate to use such items. Personal cell phone calls should only be made/received in your rooms before breakfast or at night after room check. (It is probably a good idea to let your parents know that you will only call them in the evenings once you have returned to your room.) We recommend you bring your cell phones with you only for emergency purposes or to assist the chaperones or other groups in locating each other. Keep in mind if you do not recognize a number calling you it may be a chaperone trying to get in touch with you.
Disobeying this policy will result in you losing your cell phone the remainder of the trip. As well has having to call your parents to inform them why you no longer have a cell phone during the trip.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Movies
We will be bringing some movies for everyone to watch while we travel. Here is a list of movies we will have. If you have some movies in your collection that are not listed and you would like to bring them with you email Ms. Addie and she will post them to the blog so everyone doesn't bring the same movies. Remember the movies must be rated G, PG or PG 13 only. Remember to stay tune to the blog because I will post any movies that we add to the list!
2 Fast 2 Furious PG-13
Alvin and the Chipmunks PG
Are We Done Yet PG
Are We There Yet PG
Around the Word in 80 Days PG
Austin Powers PG-13
Bee Movie PG
Big Momma's House 2 PG-13
Bruce Almighty PG-13
Cars G
Cast Away PG-13
City Slickers PG-13
Cool Runnings PG
Diary of a Mad Black Woman PG-13
Envy PG-13
Ernest Goes to Africa PG
Ernest Goes to Camp PG
Ernest Goes to Jail PG
Ernest in the Army PG
Ernest Scared Stupid PG
Finding Nemo G
George of the Jungle 2 PG
Ghostbusters PG
Gone in 60 Seconds PG-13
Goosebumps Cry of the Cat G
Grease PG
Happy Feet PG
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire PG-13
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban PG
Herbie Fully Loaded G
Ice Age the Meltdown G
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade PG-13
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark PG
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom PG
Inspector Gadget PG
Inspector Gadget 2 G
Jaws PG
Jaws the Revenge PG-13
Jurassic Park 3 PG-13
Lilo & Stitch 2 PG
Live Free or Die Hard PG-13
Madagascar PG
Narnia PG
National Treasure PG
Princess Diaries 2 G
Radio PG
Rush Hour PG-13
RV PG
Shrek the Third PG
Slam Dunk Ernest PG
Spider Man 2 PG-13
Surf's Up PG
The Day After Tomorrow PG-13
The Princess Diaries G
The Pursuit of Happyness PG-13
The Sandlot PG
The Sandlot Heading Home PG
The Toy PG
Three Amigos PG
Top Gun PG
Tower of Terror PG
Transformers PG-13
Tremors PG-13
Tremors After Socks PG-13
Weekend at Bernie's 2 PG
Wild Hogs PG-13
13 Going on 30 PG-13
Ace Ventura Pet Detective PG-13
Ace Ventura When Nature Calls PG-13
Alex and Emma PG-13
Big Daddy PG-13
Curious George G
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels PG
French Kiss PG-13
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days PG-13
Last Holiday PG-13
Legally Blonde II PG-13
Meet Joe Black PG-13
Meet the Fockers PG-13
Mona Lisa Smile PG-13
Mr. Deeds PG-13
My Big Fat Greek Wedding PG
National Geographic Arlington Field of Honor G
National Geographic Inside the White House G
National Geographic Air Force One G
National Geographic Inside the Pentagon G
Night at the Museum PG
No Reservation PG
Oceans 11 PG-13
Oceans 12 PG-13
Open Season PG
Out to Sea PG-13
Over the Hedge PG
Robin Hood Men in Tights PG-13
Rudy PG
Runaway Bride PG
Space Balls PG
The Best of the Beverly Hillbillies TV Show G
The Beverly Hillbillies PG
The Hunt for Red October PG
The Little Rascals PG
The Nutty Professor PG-13
The Terminal PG-13
The Wedding Planner PG-13
Tommy Boy PG-13
Uncle Buck PG
What Women Want PG-13
Without a Paddle PG-13
2 Fast 2 Furious PG-13
Alvin and the Chipmunks PG
Are We Done Yet PG
Are We There Yet PG
Around the Word in 80 Days PG
Austin Powers PG-13
Bee Movie PG
Big Momma's House 2 PG-13
Bruce Almighty PG-13
Cars G
Cast Away PG-13
City Slickers PG-13
Cool Runnings PG
Diary of a Mad Black Woman PG-13
Envy PG-13
Ernest Goes to Africa PG
Ernest Goes to Camp PG
Ernest Goes to Jail PG
Ernest in the Army PG
Ernest Scared Stupid PG
Finding Nemo G
George of the Jungle 2 PG
Ghostbusters PG
Gone in 60 Seconds PG-13
Goosebumps Cry of the Cat G
Grease PG
Happy Feet PG
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire PG-13
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban PG
Herbie Fully Loaded G
Ice Age the Meltdown G
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade PG-13
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark PG
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom PG
Inspector Gadget PG
Inspector Gadget 2 G
Jaws PG
Jaws the Revenge PG-13
Jurassic Park 3 PG-13
Lilo & Stitch 2 PG
Live Free or Die Hard PG-13
Madagascar PG
Narnia PG
National Treasure PG
Princess Diaries 2 G
Radio PG
Rush Hour PG-13
RV PG
Shrek the Third PG
Slam Dunk Ernest PG
Spider Man 2 PG-13
Surf's Up PG
The Day After Tomorrow PG-13
The Princess Diaries G
The Pursuit of Happyness PG-13
The Sandlot PG
The Sandlot Heading Home PG
The Toy PG
Three Amigos PG
Top Gun PG
Tower of Terror PG
Transformers PG-13
Tremors PG-13
Tremors After Socks PG-13
Weekend at Bernie's 2 PG
Wild Hogs PG-13
13 Going on 30 PG-13
Ace Ventura Pet Detective PG-13
Ace Ventura When Nature Calls PG-13
Alex and Emma PG-13
Big Daddy PG-13
Curious George G
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels PG
French Kiss PG-13
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days PG-13
Last Holiday PG-13
Legally Blonde II PG-13
Meet Joe Black PG-13
Meet the Fockers PG-13
Mona Lisa Smile PG-13
Mr. Deeds PG-13
My Big Fat Greek Wedding PG
National Geographic Arlington Field of Honor G
National Geographic Inside the White House G
National Geographic Air Force One G
National Geographic Inside the Pentagon G
Night at the Museum PG
No Reservation PG
Oceans 11 PG-13
Oceans 12 PG-13
Open Season PG
Out to Sea PG-13
Over the Hedge PG
Robin Hood Men in Tights PG-13
Rudy PG
Runaway Bride PG
Space Balls PG
The Best of the Beverly Hillbillies TV Show G
The Beverly Hillbillies PG
The Hunt for Red October PG
The Little Rascals PG
The Nutty Professor PG-13
The Terminal PG-13
The Wedding Planner PG-13
Tommy Boy PG-13
Uncle Buck PG
What Women Want PG-13
Without a Paddle PG-13
Monday, June 2, 2008
Smithsonian Tours
We will be spending one afternoon at the Smithsonian. This link: http://www.si.edu/ is a great tool for you to use to plan what you would like to see while touring. If you have any questions, please email Ms. Addie. She has several guide books with information about the different museums.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Stay Tuned...
Stay tuned to this blog during the next couple weeks. We will be posting helpful information for you to better prepare for Washington. Also if we get any questions from some of you that will be helpful to others, we will post those questions and answers up here also.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR CONGRESSIONAL MEETINGS
• What has Congress done to make higher education more affordable?
• Experts say that our nation’s growing electricity needs will soon go well beyond what renewables, conservation and efficiency can provide. What is your plan to make sure we have the electricity we’ll need in the future?
• With all the focus on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, do you see us moving to expand the role of non-emitting energy sources like nuclear power?
• What is Congress doing about high energy (gas and electric) prices?
• What is Congress doing to fully fund the research and technology required to make emissions free power plants an affordable reality?
• How can we increase the number of jobs and spur economic development in my town?
• The cost of electricity is continually increasing. Climate change legislation will further increase the costs. What is your plan to keep electric rates affordable?
• In this election year, there seems to be a never-ending conflict between Democrats and Republicans. Is this partisanship harmful to the country? Do you have friends across the political aisle?
• When you were our age, did you want to be a Member of Congress? What was your career path to Congress?
• How do you balance living in Washington, DC, with representing people like me in rural Louisiana?
• What can we do to become better leaders in our community?
• Experts say that our nation’s growing electricity needs will soon go well beyond what renewables, conservation and efficiency can provide. What is your plan to make sure we have the electricity we’ll need in the future?
• With all the focus on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, do you see us moving to expand the role of non-emitting energy sources like nuclear power?
• What is Congress doing about high energy (gas and electric) prices?
• What is Congress doing to fully fund the research and technology required to make emissions free power plants an affordable reality?
• How can we increase the number of jobs and spur economic development in my town?
• The cost of electricity is continually increasing. Climate change legislation will further increase the costs. What is your plan to keep electric rates affordable?
• In this election year, there seems to be a never-ending conflict between Democrats and Republicans. Is this partisanship harmful to the country? Do you have friends across the political aisle?
• When you were our age, did you want to be a Member of Congress? What was your career path to Congress?
• How do you balance living in Washington, DC, with representing people like me in rural Louisiana?
• What can we do to become better leaders in our community?
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
The Realities of Renewable Power
There’s certainly a buzz in rural circles these days about renewable power. Wind farms, for example, are generally built on wide-open spaces or ridgetops; methane gas from livestock waste can be burned to produce power; trees, grass, and crop stalks can be shoveled into boilers or converted to other forms of fuel.
Because most renewable energy projects take root in rural America, electric co-ops are at the forefront of this new and exciting wave of generation technology. Currently, co-ops lead electric utilities in renewable power generation, with a full 11 percent of co-op power coming from hydro and other renewable resources, compared to 9 percent for the industry as a whole.
Co-ops own and operate about 1,000 MW of renewable projects utilizing biomass, wind, solar, and small-scale hydropower. And 750 rural electric systems offer green power to their members. Those are numbers to be proud of.
We are doing everything we can to make renewable power a viable part of our energy mix, but there are very real hurdles to overcome before that 11 percent can become 15, 20, or 25 percent in coming years.
For one, construction costs for electricity generation are going up across the board, and renewable sources are no exception. Three years ago it was estimated that a wind farm would cost about $1,000 per kW of capacity – today that price tag has doubled. Costs for installation and operation of solar panels can run five times higher than a traditional coal plant of comparable size.
How do we get those costs down? Research and development can help to some extent, and the Cooperative Research Network is working with the U.S. Department of Energy on various projects. Government programs, such as Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs), are another solution. The bonds offer electric co-ops interest-free loans for financing renewable power projects, and the U.S. Treasury Department has reserved $450 million in CREBs for electric co-ops through the end of 2008.
Another hurdle involves getting renewable power to where it can be used. True, most renewable resources are abundant in rural areas, but that also means they’re far from the concentrated power needs of big cities. New transmission lines will need to go in to address this problem, and related costs can add up in a hurry.
A third drawback can cause major headaches for control room operators, charged with matching available power to demand. Most renewable sources are intermittent: the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. A fossil fuel-fired power plant, on the other hand, will produce “baseload” power as long as fuel remains available. In the case of a renewable resource like solar, though, an overcast afternoon can leave a gap in available power that needs to be filled.
Improved technology offers one way around this problem, making it possible, for example, to store excess electricity produced on a sunny day. When a storm cloud rolls up, that stored power would be ready and waiting. Co-ops are constantly making advancements in storage technology, although real breakthroughs have yet to be realized.
Although some policymakers will try to speed up the process of getting renewable power on-line, all of us need to provide an informed, thoughtful approach. Let’s be realistic about the value of renewable energy, and be realistic about its associated costs and benefits.
Support for renewable power must be consistent with providing safe, reliable, and affordable service to you, our members. Co-ops will develop the renewable resources that make the most sense for us, geographically and economically. And we will work to ensure that those paying the freight for such technologies also reap the benefits.
Renewable energy will remain a key part of rural development efforts, our nation’s energy security, and a valuable asset to consider. But as not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric co-ops, we will encourage elected officials to make sure that public policy doesn’t get ahead of available technology, and doesn’t impose a hardship on consumers. We will seek real-world results that benefit the environment, our rural communities, and you.
Source: Straight Talk Alert, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
Because most renewable energy projects take root in rural America, electric co-ops are at the forefront of this new and exciting wave of generation technology. Currently, co-ops lead electric utilities in renewable power generation, with a full 11 percent of co-op power coming from hydro and other renewable resources, compared to 9 percent for the industry as a whole.
Co-ops own and operate about 1,000 MW of renewable projects utilizing biomass, wind, solar, and small-scale hydropower. And 750 rural electric systems offer green power to their members. Those are numbers to be proud of.
We are doing everything we can to make renewable power a viable part of our energy mix, but there are very real hurdles to overcome before that 11 percent can become 15, 20, or 25 percent in coming years.
For one, construction costs for electricity generation are going up across the board, and renewable sources are no exception. Three years ago it was estimated that a wind farm would cost about $1,000 per kW of capacity – today that price tag has doubled. Costs for installation and operation of solar panels can run five times higher than a traditional coal plant of comparable size.
How do we get those costs down? Research and development can help to some extent, and the Cooperative Research Network is working with the U.S. Department of Energy on various projects. Government programs, such as Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs), are another solution. The bonds offer electric co-ops interest-free loans for financing renewable power projects, and the U.S. Treasury Department has reserved $450 million in CREBs for electric co-ops through the end of 2008.
Another hurdle involves getting renewable power to where it can be used. True, most renewable resources are abundant in rural areas, but that also means they’re far from the concentrated power needs of big cities. New transmission lines will need to go in to address this problem, and related costs can add up in a hurry.
A third drawback can cause major headaches for control room operators, charged with matching available power to demand. Most renewable sources are intermittent: the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. A fossil fuel-fired power plant, on the other hand, will produce “baseload” power as long as fuel remains available. In the case of a renewable resource like solar, though, an overcast afternoon can leave a gap in available power that needs to be filled.
Improved technology offers one way around this problem, making it possible, for example, to store excess electricity produced on a sunny day. When a storm cloud rolls up, that stored power would be ready and waiting. Co-ops are constantly making advancements in storage technology, although real breakthroughs have yet to be realized.
Although some policymakers will try to speed up the process of getting renewable power on-line, all of us need to provide an informed, thoughtful approach. Let’s be realistic about the value of renewable energy, and be realistic about its associated costs and benefits.
Support for renewable power must be consistent with providing safe, reliable, and affordable service to you, our members. Co-ops will develop the renewable resources that make the most sense for us, geographically and economically. And we will work to ensure that those paying the freight for such technologies also reap the benefits.
Renewable energy will remain a key part of rural development efforts, our nation’s energy security, and a valuable asset to consider. But as not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric co-ops, we will encourage elected officials to make sure that public policy doesn’t get ahead of available technology, and doesn’t impose a hardship on consumers. We will seek real-world results that benefit the environment, our rural communities, and you.
Source: Straight Talk Alert, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
“Our Energy, Our Future: A Dialogue With America”
Pressure is mounting for Congress to do something about climate change. And while political debates in Washington, D.C., may seem far away, the outcome of environmental legislation will have a direct impact on Pointe Coupee Electric Membership Corporation–and on you, our consumer members.
Already our nation faces a looming energy crisis, with demand for electricity ready to outstrip supply. Unless significantly more power plants are placed into service soon, consumers could experience brownouts and even rolling blackouts in the not-too-distant future. But building this generation will be the most expensive in history, coming at a time when prices for fossil fuels and construction materials like steel, copper, and concrete are shooting upward.
Additional costs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions–notably carbon dioxide, blamed for contributing to global climate change–will only strain the pocketbooks of consumers even further. Various climate change bills under consideration in Congress could boost wholesale power costs 50 percent to 80 percent by 2020, and push up retail rates from 25 percent to 40 percent.
Unfortunately, many members of Congress, as well as local and state legislators, mistakenly believe we can solve all of these problems through efficiency measures and by adding renewable energy sources. While we certainly need more energy efficiency programs and “green power,” they will not be enough to ensure that you continue to receive a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of electricity.
To keep the lights on and rates reasonable, the federal government must exercise dedicated leadership–the same leadership that got us to the moon in the 1960s. Without it, and without a sound, responsible, sustainable energy policy, we risk returning to a time when electric service was a privilege enjoyed only by the wealthy.
As electric co-op consumers, though, you can help prevent that from happening. I encourage you to contact your elected officials today, and ask them some tough questions
By doing so, you will open a discussion that just may see policymakers search for ways to meet environmental objectives while limiting the impact on electric bills.
To assist you in your conversations with those in positions of power, log on to www.ourenergy.coop. There you will find three core questions to ask, as follows:
1. Experts say that our nation’s growing electricity needs will soon go well beyond what renewables, conservation, and efficiency can provide; What is your plan to make sure we have the electricity we’ll need in the future?
2. What are you doing to fully fund the research required to make emissions-free electric plants an affordable reality?
3. Balancing electricity needs and environmental goals will be difficult. How much is all this going to increase my electric bill and what will you do to make it affordable?
From the Web site, you will also be able to send a sample letter to members of Congress recommending that they seek out a balanced solution to energy and climate change. The letter may be sent electronically or printed for regular mail.
Far too often questions don’t get asked by policymakers until plans go wrong. You can help your elected officials “get it right” by having this conversation. The electric bill you save will be your own.
Source: Straight Talk Alert, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
Already our nation faces a looming energy crisis, with demand for electricity ready to outstrip supply. Unless significantly more power plants are placed into service soon, consumers could experience brownouts and even rolling blackouts in the not-too-distant future. But building this generation will be the most expensive in history, coming at a time when prices for fossil fuels and construction materials like steel, copper, and concrete are shooting upward.
Additional costs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions–notably carbon dioxide, blamed for contributing to global climate change–will only strain the pocketbooks of consumers even further. Various climate change bills under consideration in Congress could boost wholesale power costs 50 percent to 80 percent by 2020, and push up retail rates from 25 percent to 40 percent.
Unfortunately, many members of Congress, as well as local and state legislators, mistakenly believe we can solve all of these problems through efficiency measures and by adding renewable energy sources. While we certainly need more energy efficiency programs and “green power,” they will not be enough to ensure that you continue to receive a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of electricity.
To keep the lights on and rates reasonable, the federal government must exercise dedicated leadership–the same leadership that got us to the moon in the 1960s. Without it, and without a sound, responsible, sustainable energy policy, we risk returning to a time when electric service was a privilege enjoyed only by the wealthy.
As electric co-op consumers, though, you can help prevent that from happening. I encourage you to contact your elected officials today, and ask them some tough questions
By doing so, you will open a discussion that just may see policymakers search for ways to meet environmental objectives while limiting the impact on electric bills.
To assist you in your conversations with those in positions of power, log on to www.ourenergy.coop. There you will find three core questions to ask, as follows:
1. Experts say that our nation’s growing electricity needs will soon go well beyond what renewables, conservation, and efficiency can provide; What is your plan to make sure we have the electricity we’ll need in the future?
2. What are you doing to fully fund the research required to make emissions-free electric plants an affordable reality?
3. Balancing electricity needs and environmental goals will be difficult. How much is all this going to increase my electric bill and what will you do to make it affordable?
From the Web site, you will also be able to send a sample letter to members of Congress recommending that they seek out a balanced solution to energy and climate change. The letter may be sent electronically or printed for regular mail.
Far too often questions don’t get asked by policymakers until plans go wrong. You can help your elected officials “get it right” by having this conversation. The electric bill you save will be your own.
Source: Straight Talk Alert, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
A Smart Way to Keep the Lights On
Demand for electricity nationally will increase by 40 percent during the next 22 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Yet even with an optimistic projection of a 9 percent reduction in electricity consumption due to increased efficiency and an increase in renewable power sources, our nation will soon run out of excess generating capacity and needs to build more power plants and transmission lines to keep the lights on.
This raises a catch-22 situation. Unless significantly more power plants are placed into service soon, there’s a good chance consumers could experience brownouts and even rolling blackouts in the not-too-distant future. But this generation will be the most expensive in history, coming at a time when prices for fuels to produce electricity and construction materials like steel, copper, and concrete are skyrocketing.
On top of it all, local, state, and federal lawmakers are considering additional costs on power plants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide, blamed for contributing to global climate change.
For electric co-ops, experiencing 2.6 percent overall growth (twice the national average), we take our responsibility of maintaining a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power seriously. We also have an obligation to serve, and a special responsibility to protect you, our consumer-members, against dramatic and potentially crippling increases in electricity costs.
When it comes to meeting our nation’s energy challenges, including climate change, electric co-ops believe answers can be found in a diversified mix of advancements in energy efficiency and technology; renewable, nuclear, and natural gas generation; and advanced coal generation. No magic “silver bullet” exists.
On the climate change front, electric co-ops believe recommendations developed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), a non-profit utility-sponsored consortium based in Palo Alto, Calif., whose members include electric co-ops, offer a workable framework for starting debate on solutions. EPRI has spelled out how U.S. electric utilities can slash carbon dioxide emissions below 1990 levels by 2030 (roughly 45 percent)–even as they take on about 40 percent more load through aggressive steps in seven principal areas: boosting energy efficiency, investing in renewable energy, expanding nuclear power capacity, capturing carbon produced by coal-fired power plants and storing it deep underground, improving the operating efficiency of coal-fired power plants, adding distributed generation resources, and putting plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on the road.
Consumer-owned electric co-ops have a great story to tell in how we’re already tackling each of these ambitious goals, which provide the additional bonus of helping reduce the need to build as much new generation. Today, more than 80 percent of co-ops supply electricity produced by wind, solar, hydro, biomass (including landfill gas, livestock waste, timber byproducts, and crop residue), and other renewable power sources.
Electric co-ops are also recognized industry leaders in promoting energy efficiency and wise energy use. Nearly half provide financial incentives–such as low- or no-interest loans for household improvements, leases on efficiency-related equipment, and ownership or maintenance of standby generators to reduce power use when consumption spikes–or include interactive energy use calculators on their Web sites. More than 40 percent offer efficiency and weatherization services, including selling and installing high-efficiency lighting systems, electric water heaters, geothermal and air-source heat pumps, insulation, and Energy Star appliances. And an electric co-op in North Dakota operates the only large-scale plant in the nation that captures carbon dioxide gas before it goes up a smokestack, compresses it, and then pumps it down into spent oil reservoirs for permanent storage.
Of course, implementing many of EPRI’s ideas on a large scale will require a massive investment of government resources–similar to putting a man on the moon–and mobilization of every sector of the economy. But as consumer advocates and industry leaders, electric co-ops know what works. Tapping our varied resources, we can provide elected officials with expertise on what programs are feasible technologically and can be sustained economically–and politically.
When it comes to energy, electric co-ops recognize that consumers ultimately pay the freight for whatever decisions are made. As our commitment to you, we will work to ensure that folks in positions of power understand this fact as well and seek out practical, long-term remedies based on new technology that will allow us to continue providing safe, reliable, and affordable power in an environmentally responsible fashion. Through it all, the co-op drumbeat will be loud and clear: “we’re putting consumers first.”
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Energy Information Administration, and Arlington, Va.-based National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the service arm of the nation’s 900-plus not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric co-ops.
This raises a catch-22 situation. Unless significantly more power plants are placed into service soon, there’s a good chance consumers could experience brownouts and even rolling blackouts in the not-too-distant future. But this generation will be the most expensive in history, coming at a time when prices for fuels to produce electricity and construction materials like steel, copper, and concrete are skyrocketing.
On top of it all, local, state, and federal lawmakers are considering additional costs on power plants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide, blamed for contributing to global climate change.
For electric co-ops, experiencing 2.6 percent overall growth (twice the national average), we take our responsibility of maintaining a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power seriously. We also have an obligation to serve, and a special responsibility to protect you, our consumer-members, against dramatic and potentially crippling increases in electricity costs.
When it comes to meeting our nation’s energy challenges, including climate change, electric co-ops believe answers can be found in a diversified mix of advancements in energy efficiency and technology; renewable, nuclear, and natural gas generation; and advanced coal generation. No magic “silver bullet” exists.
On the climate change front, electric co-ops believe recommendations developed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), a non-profit utility-sponsored consortium based in Palo Alto, Calif., whose members include electric co-ops, offer a workable framework for starting debate on solutions. EPRI has spelled out how U.S. electric utilities can slash carbon dioxide emissions below 1990 levels by 2030 (roughly 45 percent)–even as they take on about 40 percent more load through aggressive steps in seven principal areas: boosting energy efficiency, investing in renewable energy, expanding nuclear power capacity, capturing carbon produced by coal-fired power plants and storing it deep underground, improving the operating efficiency of coal-fired power plants, adding distributed generation resources, and putting plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on the road.
Consumer-owned electric co-ops have a great story to tell in how we’re already tackling each of these ambitious goals, which provide the additional bonus of helping reduce the need to build as much new generation. Today, more than 80 percent of co-ops supply electricity produced by wind, solar, hydro, biomass (including landfill gas, livestock waste, timber byproducts, and crop residue), and other renewable power sources.
Electric co-ops are also recognized industry leaders in promoting energy efficiency and wise energy use. Nearly half provide financial incentives–such as low- or no-interest loans for household improvements, leases on efficiency-related equipment, and ownership or maintenance of standby generators to reduce power use when consumption spikes–or include interactive energy use calculators on their Web sites. More than 40 percent offer efficiency and weatherization services, including selling and installing high-efficiency lighting systems, electric water heaters, geothermal and air-source heat pumps, insulation, and Energy Star appliances. And an electric co-op in North Dakota operates the only large-scale plant in the nation that captures carbon dioxide gas before it goes up a smokestack, compresses it, and then pumps it down into spent oil reservoirs for permanent storage.
Of course, implementing many of EPRI’s ideas on a large scale will require a massive investment of government resources–similar to putting a man on the moon–and mobilization of every sector of the economy. But as consumer advocates and industry leaders, electric co-ops know what works. Tapping our varied resources, we can provide elected officials with expertise on what programs are feasible technologically and can be sustained economically–and politically.
When it comes to energy, electric co-ops recognize that consumers ultimately pay the freight for whatever decisions are made. As our commitment to you, we will work to ensure that folks in positions of power understand this fact as well and seek out practical, long-term remedies based on new technology that will allow us to continue providing safe, reliable, and affordable power in an environmentally responsible fashion. Through it all, the co-op drumbeat will be loud and clear: “we’re putting consumers first.”
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Energy Information Administration, and Arlington, Va.-based National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the service arm of the nation’s 900-plus not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric co-ops.
Conservation and Efficiency—Kissing Cousins "We Need Your Help"
Turn on the lights and TV, boot up the computer, and head to the kitchen to start dinner. Arriving home after a full day at work, most of us walk through a familiar routine.
We hardly take a step that does not involve the reliable flow of electricity. And every light switch or appliance we turn on sends the electric meter outside spinning a little faster and the monthly bill a little higher.
Meanwhile, it’s hard to escape the media coverage surrounding climate change as evening news reporters drone on about global warming.
We watch with concern and ask, “Is there anything one person can do to make a difference?” The answer is an emphatic, “Yes.” It starts with learning all we can about energy conservation and efficiency. While they are not the same thing, they are close relatives.
Conservation occurs when we reduce total consumption of electricity, often achieved by simply turning off anything that consumes electricity when not needed.
Energy efficiency occurs when we replace or upgrade the essentials in our lives (e.g., appliances, lighting, insulation), allowing us to realize the same benefit with less electricity.
If you want to help, call the Member Services Department at Pointe Coupee Electric Membership Corporation and ask for a complete energy audit to assess how much energy your home consumes and evaluate what measures you can take to make your residence more energy efficient.
Then, with audit results in hand, take action. The cumulative effect of such small steps in homes and businesses will have a direct impact on our nation’s entire electric grid–reducing demand during peak periods, cutting emissions of greenhouse gases, and lowering overall costs to co-ops and consumer-members. Not to mention energy efficiency helps manage load growth and delays the need to build new electric generation facilities.
America’s electric co-ops are working with public officials at all levels to identify and adopt achievable and balanced solutions to climate change. One of the quickest remedies involves embracing those “kissing cousins”–conservation and efficiency–and making them part of our daily routine. Although energy consumption will continue to increase, by using electricity more efficiently, we can slow the overall growth for more power.
Source: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA)
We hardly take a step that does not involve the reliable flow of electricity. And every light switch or appliance we turn on sends the electric meter outside spinning a little faster and the monthly bill a little higher.
Meanwhile, it’s hard to escape the media coverage surrounding climate change as evening news reporters drone on about global warming.
We watch with concern and ask, “Is there anything one person can do to make a difference?” The answer is an emphatic, “Yes.” It starts with learning all we can about energy conservation and efficiency. While they are not the same thing, they are close relatives.
Conservation occurs when we reduce total consumption of electricity, often achieved by simply turning off anything that consumes electricity when not needed.
Energy efficiency occurs when we replace or upgrade the essentials in our lives (e.g., appliances, lighting, insulation), allowing us to realize the same benefit with less electricity.
If you want to help, call the Member Services Department at Pointe Coupee Electric Membership Corporation and ask for a complete energy audit to assess how much energy your home consumes and evaluate what measures you can take to make your residence more energy efficient.
Then, with audit results in hand, take action. The cumulative effect of such small steps in homes and businesses will have a direct impact on our nation’s entire electric grid–reducing demand during peak periods, cutting emissions of greenhouse gases, and lowering overall costs to co-ops and consumer-members. Not to mention energy efficiency helps manage load growth and delays the need to build new electric generation facilities.
America’s electric co-ops are working with public officials at all levels to identify and adopt achievable and balanced solutions to climate change. One of the quickest remedies involves embracing those “kissing cousins”–conservation and efficiency–and making them part of our daily routine. Although energy consumption will continue to increase, by using electricity more efficiently, we can slow the overall growth for more power.
Source: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA)
Monday, April 7, 2008
Youth Leadership Conference Huge Success!
Everyone had a great time! Youth Leadership gave everyone the opportunity to get acquainted with everyone they will be traveling with in June. Not only did everyone get acquainted but everyone bonded and developed friendships. Leadership conference has promised us that we will have a very memorable trip to D.C.
Tour of the Capitol
Delegates toured the capitol, meant with some representatives and senators from the area and sat in on a committee hearing.
Governor's Mansion Tour
Delegates toured the Governor's Mansion. They were told the history of the mansion and learned that the mural in the foyer depicts Louisiana's natural and abundant resources. They also learned that there are hidden meanings in the mural some symbolize each of the governors that have lived in the mansion. The highlight of the visit was the homemade mansion cookies!
Delegates get a first hand look at career posibilities
Delegates were taken to Pointe Coupee Electric in New Roads. Here the delegates heard from the general manager and all department directors about future career opportunities. While touring the cooperative, delegates learned that there are a variety of jobs in an electric cooperative. Some jobs require a high school diploma others require a college education; some jobs are indoors and some jobs are outdoors; some jobs are in your home town and some jobs give you the opportunity to travel or relocate all over the United States.
Delegates Host Cooperative Annual Meetings
As part of the learning exercise on how to run a cooperative. The delegates had to host an annual meeting. During their annual meeting they were responsible for reporting to their members how their co-ops had performed during the year.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Youth Leadership Conference...
begins today! Be sure to check this blog for updates about what is going on during the conference.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Youth Leadership Conference
Next week promises to be a fun and exciting week for our 2008 Youth Tour Delegates.
This will be our first opportunity to meet one another. Everyone is excited about making new friends from all over the state of Louisiana. Leadership Conference gives the delegates and the chaperons a chance to get to know one another before we travel to Washington DC in June.
The Youth Leadership Conference will be jammed pack with activities for the delegates. The first night of the conference we will have some get acquainted activities, an overview of the conference, and the Youth Tour Video presentation. Then the delegates will begin to learn about Louisiana Electric Cooperatives as well as other affiliated associations. Once the delegates know a little about electric cooperatives they will have to form their own cooperatives (group project) and they will play a computer simulated game which gives them the opportunity to make operating decisions for that cooperative. Delegates will be served a buffet supper at the conference.
The second day of Youth Leadership Conference delegates start with a buffet breakfast before heading to the State Capitol. We will tour the capitol, Governor Jindal's office, and visit with our Legislators that are available. Students may be able to take photographs with their legislators if they are at the capitol. However they are currently not in session, so the majority will not be there. We continue the day with a tour of the Governor's Mansion, a quick lunch, and then we will travel to New Roads. There the students will tour one of our electric cooperatives, Pointe Coupee Electric, where they will learn about electrical distribution, electrical generation and future careers with electric cooperatives. Upon return to Conference center in Baton Rouge, delegates will enjoy a buffet supper and then continue the computer simulated game of running their own cooperatives.
On the final day of the Youth Leadership Conference, delegates will begin the day with a buffet breakfast. After breakfast, they will have to conduct their cooperatives Annual Meeting where they will report to their membership how well their cooperative performed during the computer simulated year. We wrap up the day with an overview of the trip to Washington DC. Delegates will be given instructions on what to expect from the trip as well as what is expected of them while they are representing the state of Louisiana and their electric cooperatives during this trip. Any questions about the trip will be answered at this time. After the presentation of certificates delegates will be allowed to return home...until we see them again in June!
This will be our first opportunity to meet one another. Everyone is excited about making new friends from all over the state of Louisiana. Leadership Conference gives the delegates and the chaperons a chance to get to know one another before we travel to Washington DC in June.
The Youth Leadership Conference will be jammed pack with activities for the delegates. The first night of the conference we will have some get acquainted activities, an overview of the conference, and the Youth Tour Video presentation. Then the delegates will begin to learn about Louisiana Electric Cooperatives as well as other affiliated associations. Once the delegates know a little about electric cooperatives they will have to form their own cooperatives (group project) and they will play a computer simulated game which gives them the opportunity to make operating decisions for that cooperative. Delegates will be served a buffet supper at the conference.
The second day of Youth Leadership Conference delegates start with a buffet breakfast before heading to the State Capitol. We will tour the capitol, Governor Jindal's office, and visit with our Legislators that are available. Students may be able to take photographs with their legislators if they are at the capitol. However they are currently not in session, so the majority will not be there. We continue the day with a tour of the Governor's Mansion, a quick lunch, and then we will travel to New Roads. There the students will tour one of our electric cooperatives, Pointe Coupee Electric, where they will learn about electrical distribution, electrical generation and future careers with electric cooperatives. Upon return to Conference center in Baton Rouge, delegates will enjoy a buffet supper and then continue the computer simulated game of running their own cooperatives.
On the final day of the Youth Leadership Conference, delegates will begin the day with a buffet breakfast. After breakfast, they will have to conduct their cooperatives Annual Meeting where they will report to their membership how well their cooperative performed during the computer simulated year. We wrap up the day with an overview of the trip to Washington DC. Delegates will be given instructions on what to expect from the trip as well as what is expected of them while they are representing the state of Louisiana and their electric cooperatives during this trip. Any questions about the trip will be answered at this time. After the presentation of certificates delegates will be allowed to return home...until we see them again in June!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Greetings from California...
Our 2007 Youth Leadership Council representative, Katherine, spent last week in California. Here are some photos from the NRECA Annual Meeting. Katherine represented Louisiana by carrying our state flag into the meeting. Stay tuned for more postings about her trip to California!
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