This Week in Atlanta

The big event this week is something that just popped up on our radar.  The second annual Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission is going on much of the week.  This mission will bring together international players in business and politics to discuss how the city of Atlanta can move forward on it's environmental agenda.  The focal points of this year's mission are clean water, innovative waste management and cutting edge technologies for green buildings.  On Saturday, Trees Atlanta is holding its 10th annual tree sale.  Check out the post below to see all of the other events that are going on.  Have a green week!

Oct 5 (Monday)

Various Times - Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission (ETM) ($,R)

9am - 3pm - Park Pride Golf Classic ($,R)

630pm - 830pm - Beltline - Northside and Northeast Study Group

Oct 6 (Tuesday)

Various Times - Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission (ETM) ($,R)

Oct 7 (Wednesday)

Various Times - Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission (ETM) ($,R)
1145am - 130pm - Green Chamber of the South - Green Wednesdays ($,R)
6pm - 8pm - Green Drinks (R)

Oct 8 (Thursday)

Various Times - Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission (ETM) ($,R)
4pm - 8pm - Renewable Energy Seminar ($,R)

Oct 9 (Friday)

Various Times - Atlanta Environmental Trade Mission (ETM) ($,R)

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

Oct 10 (Saturday)

All Day - Georgia Forest Watch Retreat - ($,R)
8am - 2pm - Trees Atlanta - 10th Annual Tree Sale
9am - 11pm - Oakhurst Community Garden - Chicks and the City: Keeping Chickens for Eggs, Compost, and Endless Amusement ($,R)
12pm - 4pm - Eat Local Day! at Harry's Farmers Market Marietta
630pm - 830pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Heels on Wheels ($,R)
Oct 11 (Sunday)
No Events

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

Farmer's Markets

Tuesday

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

Saturday

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

10am - 2pm - Glenwood Park Farmer's Market

This Week in Environmental History

Oct 9 - Vajont Resovoir Disaster Kills 2500 (Italy) - 1963

Oct 11 - Kentucky Coal Slurry Disaster - 2000

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

Peach Bites

Wow, we had a busy week with headlines.  Most of them centered around water and transit.  We obviously, the recent flooding was a big story and there was some movement in the water wars.  In the transit arena, Ray LaHood, secretary of transportation for the Obama administration was in town and shared his views on what the state and region need to do to progress the transit gridlock that exists.  

We also saw a couple really positive articles come out which we will kick the post off with below:

Emory Honored for Green Work - The Urban Land Institute awarded it's Sustainable Development Award to Emory's Sustainability Program.  This is great because Emory has been a leader in the area developing LEED certified buildings and creating innovative sustainability programs such as their campus Farmer's Market which was started in 2008. - EmoryWheel.com
 

Smog Days Down in Georgia - Great News!!  The metro area has halved the number of unhealthy air quality days.  The suspected culprits are the weather and the economy.  This happened even while the federal government increased the standards for healthy air this year. - Georgia Public Broadcasting

Georgia Supreme Court Rejects Power Plant Challenge - Justices voted unanimously on Wednesday against hearing the appeal by environmentalists against the $2B Longleaf Energy Station.  Notable Quote: “It’s amazing that, with 30 organizations representing tens of thousands of people weighing in with the Supreme Court discussing how important this case is … the Georgia Supreme Court declined to even consider the case,” said Justine Thompson, executive director of Atlanta-based Green Law. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

Congress Set to Finalize Anti-Mercury Bill - Wow.. There are only four facilities in the US that are still using mercury to produce chlorine and one of those is the Olin plant in Augusta.  Apparently, more than 600 lbs. of mercury are released into the air and water along the Savannah river annually.  It would definitely be nice to see that phased out. - Georgia Public Broadcasting

 

Perdue Favors Incentives for Water Conservation - You may or may not recall our post, Perdue says no to conservation and yes to water war.  Well, in typical politician fashion, reality has set in and the big man has flip-flopped.  He is now saying "I think it's time to think about potentially, some state-types of strong suggestions for conservation efforts in our local communities, and I'd love to think about it in an incentive fashion... rather than a stick."  Expect to see outlines of those 'incentives' before the next state legislature session. - Georgia Public Broadcasting

 

Perdue Names Water Task Force - Sonny is bringing in some heavy hitters from the private sector.  John Brock, CEO of Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc., and Tim Lowe, Lowe Engineers Inc., will co-chair the panel which will look for alternative plans following the recent federal court ruling. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

Trash and Bacteria Fill Rivers - In the aftermath of the recent flooding, reports are now coming out about e.coli and other problematic bacteria polluting our rivers and streams.  The bacteria will quickly go away but the bigger issue is the tons of trash that have been introduced into the rivers.  Where will it all flow to?  At least we're upstream.  It's someone else's problem, right??? - Georgia Public Broadcasting

 

Atlanta Reservoir Plan on Hold - We touched on this in last week's Peach Bites.  This week, the Atlanta City Council decided to put off consideration of the proposed $650 million reservoir in the Dawson Forest. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

Tri-State Water Dispute: Georgia's Hand Further Weakend - Alabama landed another blow against Georgia this week.  The prospects for a ruling in Georgia's favor keep getting slimmer and slimmer. - Georgia Public Broadcasting

 

Georgia Applies for High-Speed Rail Grant - The GDOT applied for a grant in the amount of $472 million this week to begin working on a high-speed rail line between Atlanta and Macon.  This application, if approved, is expected to cover all the capital costs of the project.  I've been doing a lot of research on this topic and haven't really heard much about the Atlanta-Macon route.  You've probably seen the Brain Train, Lovejoy and Chattanooga routes discussed but the Macon route came out of the blue.  Any way we look at it though, connectivity is a good thing.  Let's see what happens. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

ATL Mayoral Candidates and the Beltline - The AJC had a quick recap of the recent Beltline mayoral forum.  The reality of the economic collapse and depressed real estate market is definitely recognized by the candidates.  But, it is apparent that all three of them support the Beltline.  They each have some interesting ideas on what is the vision of the beltiline. - AJC

Beltline Mayoral Forum: Which Candidate Scored - There was some interesting perspective on the recent Beltline mayoral forum from Atlanta Unsheltered.  Here's what I took from the post.  Lisa Borders and Mary Norwood really support the beltline.  Kasim Reed wants to prevent crime and a deterioration of urban youth.  Mary Norwood got stuck in traffic and the audience wondered why she didn't take MARTA since there was a stop across the street.  Probably because there wasn't a stop where she was coming from.  hmm...  - Atlanta Unsheltered

Beltline Officials: Citizen Group Wants to Take Control of the Project - This was interesting.  The Tax Allocation District Advisory Committee (TADAC), has put out statements questioning the funding of affordable housing along the Beltline and has stated that Beltline officials are keeping important information private and thus not allowing TADAC to do it's job.  There is too much in the article to accurately summarize in a few sentences but to me it seems to be a battle over public or private control.  I lean toward the private side. - Creative Loafing

Atlanta Forward, Our View: Transit is a Track to Metro's Prosperity - This article has some interesting local perspective and I enjoyed the comparison to St. Louis and Chicago when riverboat transportation was giving way to train transportation.  St. Louis became an also-ran because it pandered to pressure from riverboat operators.  If Atlanta panders to the pressure of the auto/road lobby, we will lose out on the opportunity to significantly upgrade our transit and will fall behind other southern cities. - AJC

Atlanta Forward, Another View: Georgia Needs to get its Act Together - This quote sums it up: LaHood expressed the administration’s strong support for more transit alternatives. He encouraged state support for MARTA and noted streetcars are on their way back — citing the success of Portland, Ore.’s system. This kind of thinking is potentially good news for the proposed Peachtree Streetcar and bodes well for federal support for our region’s comprehensive, coordinated Concept 3 Transit Plan. - AJC

State of Georgia is Stuck in the Mud While Atlanta Region Moves Forward on Transit - Notable Quote: "Although LaHood didn't tell us anything we didn't already know, it's always reaffirming to have the most powerful transportation official in the country tell state leaders that they've been asleep at the switch."  The good news is that there is overwhelming support for Concept 3 and Metro Atlanta is on the verge of approving the Regional Transit Committee which will be a much needed regional steering group that has the teeth to make things happen. - Saporta Report

This Week in Atlanta

We're really excited about several things this week.  First, there is the Energy Star and Water Sense sales tax holiday starting on Thursday and lasting until Sunday.  This will give many Georgians an opportunity to save money on products that will save them more money and use less energy overall.  Win-Win!  Another exciting event is the Georgial Solar Tour and Festival this weekend.  We went on last year's tour and had a great time seeing a number of really interesting homes and businesses.  It seems to be more industry focused this year which great since it tells me that the industry is actually becoming more legitimate.  The wife and baby are thinking about doing the Infant Walk at the Chattahoochee Nature Center on Wednesday but as everything is when you have an infant it is a game time decision.  Have a green week!

Sept 28 (Monday)

7pm - 9pm - Raw Food Nutrition for Health & Weight Loss with Jesse Andersen @ Whole Foods Buckhead (R)

Sept 29 (Tuesday)

6pm - 7pm - Mayoral Forum on the Beltline - Parks - Historic Resources - Transportation

Sept 30 (Wednesday)

8am - 1pm - Partnership for a Sustainable Georgia's 2009 Natural Leaders Event and Conserve Georgia Awards ($,R)

10am - 11am - Infant Walk @ the Chattahoochee Nature Center ($,R)

1030am - 12pm - Cloth Diaper Workshop - Harry's Farmers Market Alpharetta (R)

Oct 1 (Thursday)

All Day - Georgia Energy Star & Water Sense Sales Tax Holiday

Oct 2 (Friday)

All Day - Georgia Energy Star & Water Sense Sales Tax Holiday

730am - 9am - Sustainable Atlanta Roundtable - Public Health & the Impact of Environmental Policies ($)

8am - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

1130am - 130pm - Green Packaging for Your Business Luncy & Learn ($,R)

6pm - 8pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Light Up the Night

Oct 3 (Saturday)

All Day - Georgia Energy Star & Water Sense Sales Tax Holiday

8am - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

9am - 11am - Ted's Montana Grill Bison Stampede 5k and fun run ($,R)

9am - 12pm - Trees Atlanta - Planting - See Website for Details

9am - 2pm - Georgia Solar Tour Festival ($,R)

9am - 3pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Confident City Cycling Downtown ($,R)

12pm - 7pm - HOTober Fest @ Glenwood Park

130pm - 330pm - A Smorgasbord of Films about Local Foods Hosted by the Greater Atlanta Dietic Association

Oct 4 (Sunday)

All Day - Georgia Energy Star & Water Sense Sales Tax Holiday
11am - 6pm - Field of Greens Festival (aka. Georgia's Farm Aid) ($,R)

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

Farmer's Markets

Tuesday

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

Saturday

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

10am - 2pm - Glenwood Park Farmer's Market

This Week in Environmental History

9/20 - World's First Hydroelectric Plant Opens - 1882

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

Peach Bites

We haven't posted a Peach Bites column in a while so we have built up quite a backlog.  There has been a lot of buzz about water and transit over the past month and we've tried to capture the highlights in today's post.   

 

Georgia to Appeal Water Ruling - Who didn't see this one coming?  We'll see what happens but one thing I know for sure, the federal government will not cut millions of people off from their water source.  Well, I'm not 100% sure about that but politicans want votes and thirsty people don't vote for the politicians who let them go thirsty... - GPB

 

New Reservoir Proposed for North Georgia - I don't know what to think of this one.  On one hand, I say it may be a good idea since it will set aside 8,000 acres of the 10,000 acres of wilderness that the city owns in the Dawson Forest.  However, the other tells me that $650 million to build a dam that will disrupt natural habitat is insane when we haven't exhausted our water conservation efforts.  Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

Clayton County Among Nation's Most 'Water Wise' Counties - American Rivers recently named Clayton County one of the nation's most "water wise" communities.  The wetland filtration system that Clayton County created years ago is integral to its ranking.  While keeping wetlands in tact, Clayton County was able to maintain a 230 day drinking water supply at the height of the drought while Lake Lanier was as low as 90 days.  This is a win for the environment and for the people of Clayton county. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

Half a Penny for Metro Transportation Just Not Worth the Trouble - If you've ever been in sales (or politics), you learn quickly that compromise rarely means mean win-win.  Moving from a penny sales tax to a half-penny sales tax increase is a compromise that panders to political pressure and doesn't follow logic or the spirit of the tax.  It's boring stuff but worth a read if you are interested in the future (or lack thereof) of transit in Georgia. - Saporta Report

 

MARTA Could Run the Beltline - Sure... Let's see if MARTA can run MARTA first...  I have my thoughts on MARTA and it's future but that's not for a Peach Bite comment.  I'm sure it's inevitable and it would make for the most seamless transit experience but MARTA just has so many issues.  There is a better way and I'll touch on that in a later post. -  AJC

 

Atlanta Streetcar Makes Pitch for Public Funding - I'm a huge proponent of the Peachtree Streetcar.  Unfortunately, I get the feeling that the only reason other people are excited about it is because it is really the only 'shovel ready' transit project in Atlanta that affords us the opportunity to get some government cheese.  If we do build it, my prediction is that it will be wildly successful.  Expect to hear something from the Feds by Feb 2010. -  Saporta Report

 

Atlanta-Chattanooga MagLev Rail Gets Dose of Cash - This could be one of the first steps taken in the south to connect the region with a 21st century transit system.  The Federal Transit Administration is providing $14.2 million to pay for environmental and engineering studies on a MagLev train that could connect the two cities.  Imagine zipping to Chattanooga in 30 minutes. This would be good for business, recreation and image. - AJC

 

MagLev Train Shuttle to Braves Stadium? - Okay... Do I really think we need this??  NO.  But, it would be crazy cool.  Stepping back to reality though, let's take that money and move it to the Beltline.  Or just build a regular train service.  MagLev is totally unnecessary for this type of shuttle system.  Let's focus on the Atlanta-Chattanooga MagLev.   - Atlanta Unsheltered

 

Beltline Names New CEO - Brian Leary, vice president of Atlantic Station, was recently named the new CEO of Atlanta Beltline Inc.  This looks to be a good move.  With this though, I am predicting a change of the northwestern path of the Beltline to now cut through Atlantic Station instead of going to the north and west of it.  We shall see.. - Creative Loafing

 

Beltline's Feasibility Rides to Forefront - The worrisome thing about the Beltline is that the financial plan around securing funding is primarily based on increasing property tax revenues.  The plan was devised prior to the real estate market crash back in 2005 and hasn't been changed.  Finding $1.7 billion from property tax revenues might prove impossible in the new environment.  Personally, I believe that the project is integral to the city and the 'leadership' will find a way to make it happen regardless. - AJC

 

Metro Atlanta Needs a Metro Solution to Transportation - Jay Bookman gives some very interesting insight on the history of transportation planning in the state and the current and future needs.  A really notable fact is that the state of Georgia ranks 49th in per capita dollars spent on transportation.  The other was that metro Atlanta accounts for ~28% of transportation spending.  I wanted to see if that was proportionate to the population and found that it is significantly below.  Approximately 60% of the residents of GA live in the metro area.  We need to let to politicians know that change is needed. -  Jay Bookman (AJC)

 

MARTA Wins Solar Energy Grant - Marta is planning to use $10.8 million in federal grants to put solar panels on top of bus canopies.  The panels will be installed at the Laredo Bus Maintenance Facility in Decatur. This will be the largest PV system in GA. - Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

Atlanta Bests San Francisco for Green Building - For some reason, Atlanta doesn't seem to get the respect it deserves in this area.  We're good but we could be better.  Right now, we're 5th in the nation in LEED certified buildings at 53.  Chicago has 88, Portland has 73, Seattle has 63 and DC has 57.  San Fran is right behind us at 50. - San Francisco Chronicle via Chicago Tribune

 

Lovett's New Green Middle School - The unfortunate thing is that most Atlantans can't afford to send their kids to Lovett.  But, the school's commitment to sustainability and environmental issues is something to be commended.  The new facility is seeking LEED Gold certification and has a green roof and rainwater harvesting system among other features. - WSBTV

 

Going Green Pays Off - Man, I hate the phrase "going green."  What does it mean?  It seems to me that it's up to anyone's interpretation.  Am I 'going green' because I use CFLs or bring reusable shopping bags to Whole Foods for my groceries??  Well, that's not the point of the article.  The exciting thing that I took from this article is that the Westin downtown will finally be replacing the windows lost during the tornado.  And... those windows will be thicker, darker and better insulating.  There are a few other buildings that are highlighted like 1180 Peachtree and the Emory University Conference Center Hotel. - AJC

 

Don Wells Named Atlanta's 2009 Cox Conserves Hero - Mountain Stewards, Wells' non profit organization, will receive a $5,000 donation from Cox Enterprises. - Trust for Public Land

Recycling Pick-Up Back On in the City of Atlanta - How exciting!  Recycling!  Wow!  How are other cities going to compete with us now that we have recycling again? We are truly 'going green' here in Atlanta. -  The Buckhead Blog

Stay tuned for next week's installment of Peach Bites.  Feel free to send me any articles or stories that you come across at michaeldhadden@gmail.com

This Week in Atlanta

There are several events of note this week.  First, on Thursday, the Breaking the Color Barier in the Great American Outdoors conference kicks off.  It is a three day event with a very comprehensive agenda.  The goal is to encourage more African-Americans and minorities to visit our national parks.  The conference is timed well since Sunday is the premiere on PBS of the new documentary, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. The Atlanta Home Expo is also going on this weekend.  We are excited to see what kind of new environmentally friendly and sustainable products are there.  We are also excited to see all of the greenwashing that is going on.  Two benefit dinners are slated for this week.  The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper celebrates its 15th year with its Patron Appreciation Dinner onWednesday and Keeping It Wild is holding its 5th annual gala dinner.  Have a green week!

Sept 21 (Monday)

No Events Scheduled

Sept 22 (Tuesday)

230pm - 430pm - Green Chamber - Sustainable Real Estate Seminar: Behind the Scenes at Atlantic Station ($,R)

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

Sept 23 (Wednesday)

730am - 9am - CareerEco - Breakfast Forum with Mohawk, Southface, Sustainable Atlanta ($,R)

3pm - 8pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

630pm - 830pm - Atlanta Audubon Society - Birds & Buffalo Wings Evening Walks

730pm - 10pm - Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper - Patron Appreciation Dinner ($,R)

Sept 24 (Thursday)

9am - 630pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

6pm - 10pm - Atlanta Botanical Garden - Cocktails in the Garden ($,R)

630pm - 9pm - Type-A (R)

7pm - 9pm - Keeping It Wild 5th Annual Gala Dinner

Sept 25 (Friday)

9am - 930pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

10am - 8pm - Atlanta Home Show

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

Sept 26 (Saturday)

All Day - Park Pride - 20/20 Neighborhood Picnic Event

8am - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

9am - 11am - Georgia WaterSmart Outdoor Education Workshop

9am - 11am - Kids Fishing Event ($) - Chattahoochee National Recreation Area

9am - 12pm - Trees Atlanta - Planting - See Website for Details

9am - 1pm - Rivers Alive - River Cleanup at Life University (R)

9am - 2pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Confident City Cycling + Bike Commuter Module in Decatur ($,R)

10am - 8pm - Atlanta Home Show

12pm - 7pm - Fall in the Fourth Neighborhood Festival

3pm - 730pm - Trees Atlanta Fall Festival

Sept 27 (Sunday)

12pm - 6pm - Atlanta Home Show

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

7pm - 9pm - PBS: The National Parks: America's Best Idea

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

Farmer's Markets

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

10am - 2pm - Glenwood Park Farmer's Market

This Week in Environmental History

There were no events of note

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

There are several events of note this week.  First, on Thursday, the Breaking the Color Barier in the Great American Outdoors conference kicks off.  It is a three day event with a very comprehensive agenda.  The goal is to encourage more African-Americans and minorities to visit our national parks.  The conference is timed well since Sunday is the premiere on PBS of the new documentary, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. The Atlanta Home Expo is also going on this weekend.  We are excited to see what kind of new environmentally friendly and sustainable products are there.  We are also excited to see all of the greenwashing that is going on.  Two benefit dinners are slated for this week.  The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper celebrates its 15th year with its Patron Appreciation Dinner onWednesday and Keeping It Wild is holding its 5th annual gala dinner.  Have a green week!

Sept 21 (Monday)

No Events Scheduled

Sept 22 (Tuesday)

230pm - 430pm - Green Chamber - Sustainable Real Estate Seminar: Behind the Scenes at Atlantic Station ($,R)

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

Sept 23 (Wednesday)

730am - 9am - CareerEco - Breakfast Forum with Mohawk, Southface, Sustainable Atlanta ($,R)

3pm - 8pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

630pm - 830pm - Atlanta Audubon Society - Birds & Buffalo Wings Evening Walks

730pm - 10pm - Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper - Patron Appreciation Dinner ($,R)

Sept 24 (Thursday)

9am - 630pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

6pm - 10pm - Atlanta Botanical Garden - Cocktails in the Garden ($,R)

630pm - 9pm - Type-A (R)

7pm - 9pm - Keeping It Wild 5th Annual Gala Dinner

Sept 25 (Friday)

9am - 930pm - Breaking the Color Barrier in the Great American Outdoors ($,R)

10am - 8pm - Atlanta Home Show

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R, 3 weekend class)

Sept 26 (Saturday)

All Day - Park Pride - 20/20 Neighborhood Picnic Event

8am - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

9am - 11am - Georgia WaterSmart Outdoor Education Workshop

9am - 11am - Kids Fishing Event ($) - Chattahoochee National Recreation Area

9am - 12pm - Trees Atlanta - Planting - See Website for Details

9am - 1pm - Rivers Alive - River Cleanup at Life University (R)

9am - 2pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Confident City Cycling + Bike Commuter Module in Decatur ($,R)

10am - 8pm - Atlanta Home Show

12pm - 7pm - Fall in the Fourth Neighborhood Festival

3pm - 730pm - Trees Atlanta Fall Festival

Sept 27 (Sunday)

12pm - 6pm - Atlanta Home Show

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

7pm - 9pm - PBS: The National Parks: America's Best Idea

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

Farmer's Markets

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

10am - 2pm - Glenwood Park Farmer's Market

This Week in Environmental History

There were no events of note

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

MARTA Was a Pioneer.. Was...

This is a very depressing little video from Citizens for Progressive Transit. What it tells me is that Atlanta has been passed by simply by letting the status quo rule the political scene. For too long now, there has been an atmosphere of complacency. Unfortunately, we are now seeing what complacency leads to. It is still unbelievable to me that Cobb and Gwinnett county have never become part of MARTA. Now, we have Oxendine talking about building a parallel connector. When will the politicians understand that building more roads is a 20th century solution to our transportation woes??

This Week in Atlanta

This week is a little lighter than last week but there are a still a few good events on tap.  The big event this week is the Beltline Night at the Braves on Wednesday.  Purchase your tickets through the link below and 50% of the proceeds will go to the beltline.  Unfortunately, I don't get the opportunity to attend all of the events that we post here on GreenPeaches but every once in a while we run across a good recap of one.  Two weeks ago, the GreenBusiness Works 2009 conference was held at the Cobb Galleria and the Verus Carbon Neutral Blog has a good run down here.  Last week, we had the opportunity to hear Nick Conable, Sr. Project Manager for the Beltline, address the Sierra Club Metro Atlanta Chapter about the current state and future of the Beltline.  It is very apparent that it is happening and that there is a lot of momentum behind it.  There are five new parks that are set to open by the end of next year.  Also, Cox Conserves named Don Wells, co-founder of Mountain Stewards, its 2009 Cox Conserves Hero.

Sept 14 (Monday)

7pm - 9pm - Oakhurst Community Garden - Growing a Fall and Winter Vegetable Garden ($,R)

Sept 15 (Tuesday)

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

6pm - 630pm - Southeast Beltline 101

6pm - 630pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Bike to the Braves

7pm - 10pm - Beltline Night at the Braves ($)

Sept 16 (Wednesday)

6pm 9pm - An Audubon Evening @ The Chattahoochee Nature Center ($,R)

Sept 17 (Thursday)

6pm - 10pm - Atlanta Botanical Garden - Cocktails in the Garden ($,R)

730pm - 930pm - Atlanta Mayoral Forum

Sept 18 (Friday)

No Events Scheduled

Sept 19 (Saturday)

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

8am - 4pm - Keep Atlanta Beautiful - Electronics Recycling Day @ Grady High School

8am - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 4pm - Living Green Pages - Living Green Festival in Chastain Park

9am - 12pm - Trees Atlanta - Planting - See Website for Details

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

430pm - 530pm - Trees Atlanta - Midtown Treek Walk with Walter Reeves ($,R)

Sept 20 (Sunday)

1pm - 5pm - Georgia Organics - Fundamentals of Organic Farming & Gardening ($,R,3 weekend class)

2pm - 5pm - Oakhurst Community Garden - Get the Buzz: An Introduction to Beekeeping ($,R)

3pm - 6pm -Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Heart of the City Bike Tour ($,R,M)

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

This Week in Environmental History

Sept 16 - Montreal Protocol Signed by 24 Nations - 1987

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

This Week in Atlanta

This week is a busy one here in Atlanta.  To start the week off, the local conviviums of Slow Food USA are holding Eat-Ins for the National Day of Action to get Real Food in Our Schools. There are a number of these going on around the area tomorrow.  There are several Beltline 101 sessions going on.  So, if you are living in or plan to live in an area where the Beltline will go through, you have an opportunity to give your input.  There are several networking events this week and we have the Atlanta Arts Festival this weekend.  Try to get out and take part in something this week.  I am planning on attending the Sierra Club Metro Atlanta Chapter meeting on Tuesday.

Sept 7 (Monday)

7am - 4pm - Atlanta Bicycle Coalition - Labor Day Share the Road Challenge

11am - 1pm - Slow Food USA National Day of Action - East Cobb (R)

11am - 2pm - Slow Food USA National Day of Action - Buckhead (R)

12pm - 3pm - Slow Food USA National Day of Action - Atlanta (R)

12pm - 3pm - Slow Food USA National Day of Action - Gwinnett (R)

Sept 8 (Tuesday)

4pm - 8pm - Whistlestop Farmer's Market - Norcross

6pm - 630pm - Westside Beltline 101

6pm - 9pm - US Green Building Council - GA Chapter Green Scene Networking Event (R)

7pm - 9pm - The Homeowner's Guide to Green Remodeling Seminar @ Decatur Library

7pm - 10pm - Sierra Club - Metro Atlanta Chapter Meeting - Will Atlanta have a Beltline?

Sept 9 (Wednesday)

1145am - 130pm - Green Chamber of the South - Green Wednesdays ($,R)
6pm - 630pm - Northside Beltline 101

Sept 10 (Thursday)

Cox Conserves will Announce Its 2009 Local Hero Award Winner

6pm - 10pm - Atlanta Botanical Garden - Cocktails in the Garden ($,R)

7pm - 9pm - Sierra Club & Citizens for Progressive Transit - Hot Planet, Cold Drinks

Sept 11 (Friday)

No Events Scheduled

Sept 12 (Saturday)

8am - 12pm - Lawrenceville Farmer's Market

8am - 12pm - Suwanee Farmer's Market

8am - 1230pm - Alpharetta Farmer's Market

830am - 12pm - Peachtree Road Farmer's Market

9am - 11pm - Kids Fishing Event - Chattahoochee National Recreation Area ($,R)

9am - 12pm - Trees Atlanta - Planting - See Website for Details

9am - 12pm - Serenbe Farmer's Market

9am - 1pm - Piedmont Park Green Market

9am - 4pm - Atlanta Audubon Society - 2009 Wildlife Sanctuary Backyard Tour ($,R)

9am - 5pm - American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association Conference ($,R)

10am - 12pm - Kwanza Hall/GreenCell Community Clean-Up

10am - 7pm - Atlanta Arts Festival

12pm - 1230pm - Southwest Beltline 101

Sept 13 (Sunday)

830am - 3pm - American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association Conference ($,R)

10am - 6pm - Atlanta Arts Festival

3pm - 5pm - Oakhurst Community Garden - Hands On Fall Vegetable Planting ($,R)

6pm - 9pm - An Audubon Evening ($,R)

Ongoing Activities

Tour LEED Certified Chattahoochee Nature Center - Mondays & Thursdays @ 1pm, Sundays @ 4pm (General Admission, Members Free)

Naturalist Led Canoe Trips from the Chattahoochee Nature Center - August - Saturdays 830am - 11am

This Week in Environmental History

$ - Event Costs Money
R - Registration Required
P - Private Event Invite Only
M - Group Membership Required
V - Volunteer Event

If you know of any other events, please add them in the comments.

 

Walk Downtown and Be Rewarded

Next month, yes next month is October, you can earn some bucks by walking if you live and/or work downtown.  They are putting on the Downtown Atlanta Walk there Challenge.  More info from the Downtown TMA Newsletter:

Walk There Challenge in October

If you’re going to walk, then why not be rewarded for it? During the month of October, the Downtown Transportation Management Association (TMA) will present the Walk There Challenge, a FREE program designed to encourage Downtown workers to lace up their shoes and hit the streets to improve their health, help clean up the air and reduce traffic.

Each day participants will log the number of steps they take during the month of October. The Downtown TMA will provide a free pedometer and “walking kit” to the first 1,500 individuals. Then each week a random winner will be selected to receive Downtown-themed prizes and the Downtown stepper with the most steps logged at the end of October gets a grand prize: a night on the town (Downtown, that is!). The grand prize winner will also receive a gift basket of tickets, gift certificates and more. For more information and to sign up go to www.AtlantaDowntown.com.

Peach Bites

Southface Eco Office Officially Opens in Atlanta - The new LEED Platinum certified Southface Eco Office is one of the most efficient office buildings in the world. Oh yeah, it is also Energy Star rated, EarthCraft Light Commercial certified and meets the 2030 Challenge.  MNN

 

Atlantic Station Eyes Electric Cars - Marietta based Long Drive Solar is in talks with The Jacoby Group to possibly supply hundreds of solar powered vehicles to Atlantic Station. The vehicles would range from two seater golf carts to 30 passenger buses. Atlantic Station is looking better and better as a green live, work, play destination. Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

Atlanta Streetcar Can be an Economic Driver - We are big fans of the streetcar project. Obviously, it would be neat to see old style streetcars going up and down Peachtree but many people completely underestimate the economic and residential impact of the south's biggest and most influential business corridor. Having a transit option that could get people that "last mile" from a MARTA station to their home or office would be a big win. Take the Money and Build! AJC

 

We Need a Plan for High-Speed Rail - The most discouraging thing with the whole high speed rail thing is that our city could be a major leader given its location. However, the focus just hasn't been there. Now, we face the possibility of letting Charlotte pass us by on this front. AJC

Kennesaw State Opens "Green" Dining Hall - This is a great step in the right direction for one of our local universities. The facility is huge with 54,000 square feet and is very green with vegan food that is locally sourced served on compostable paper products. The LEED certification will be a plus as well.  AJC

 

Metro Atlanta is Too Good of a Water Steward?? - Apparently, we are too good at conserving water. Too Good!! Now, we're pretty water concious in our family yet I'm sure we could do much better at conserving.  I'm 100% positive that at least 75% of Atlantans don't even think about water conservation. North Fulton.com