Causecast - Latest News

Seafood For The Future Teaches Causecast How To Cook With Sustainable Seafood (VIDEO)

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:50:07 -0800

by BRANDON BUCK, Causecast Video Producer Causecast recently had the pleasure of having a visit from Seafood For The Future, a nonprofit based out of the Aquarium of the Pacific, who stopped by our headquarters to prepare a meal made from local vegetables and sustainable seafood. As chef Andrew Gruel and marine biologist Dave Anderson cooked, the video team captured them on camera talking about the history of their organization, why it's important to maintain seafood as a part of a healthy diet and how they're going about convincing the fishing industry and the restaurant industry to go sustainable. They also explained the incentives they offer customers who choose sustainable dishes. Because Andrew and Dave had so many insightful things to say, we did something a little special with this video. Normally our videos are around three to four minutes long, so we also provided links in the video to other parts where Dave and Andrew go into more detail about certain things, whether it's more on the health benefits of having seafood in your diet, or about how you can shop sustainably at your local grocery store or restaurant. We also couldn't leave you without recipes of all the delicious dishes Andrew made, so we included links at the very end of the video that you can click on that will take you directly to the recipes.

Photo by avlxyz, flickr.

International Violence Against Women Act Re-Introduced In U.S. Congress

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:52:46 -0800

by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer Violence against women is an ongoing international problem. In some areas of the world, women are raped and then punished for the crime of adultery. In other regions, rape and other violence against women is used as a method of genocide. When women are robbed of their basic human rights, the consequences reverberate throughout all aspects of society. Gender-based violence destroys families, creates major health concerns, economic development issues and has other negative impacts on the health of a community as a whole. The World Health Organization reports that at least one out of every three women worldwide are assaulted, coerced into sex, or abused in another way during her lifetime. In some countries, abuse rates reach a staggering 70 percent. To address the crises of violence against women around the world, the United Nations has long advocated for a global agreement to protect women and girls. However, despite the passage of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in 1979, any such moratorium on gender-based violence struggles to be implemented. In a bi-partisan effort, the U.S. Senate has introduced an unprecedented piece of legislation that would develop a comprehensive strategy for the U.S. government to focus attention on the issue and become a global leader in eradicating gender-based violence around the world. If it passes, the International Violence Against Women Act hopes to create a "new era of international cooperation to address violence against women, to create partnerships among governments, multilateral institutions, the private sector, civil society, and individuals." The I-VAWA, originally drafted in 2007, was introduced into Congress last year, but never came up to a vote before the Congress adjoined. The I-VAWA has been re-introduced in Congress this year and women's rights advocates hope the bill will be voted on soon. The bill would make the protection of women and girls a top diplomatic priority for the U.S., who would support UNIFEM in their efforts to end violence against women. The strategy would include an increase in: • Legal protection for women suffering abuse • Health care capacity to include prevention, care and treatment • Economic opportunity and education • Training for U.S. security forces abroad to deal with human rights violations suffered by women The I-VAWA also recognizes the need for a shift in cultures that excuse violence against women as a social norm, including such abuses as dowry marriages, honor killings, rape and domestic abuse. Ultimately, the I-VAWA calls for an international commitment to make the basic rights of women a top priority and back up that commitment with action. The I-VAWA is supported by Amnesty International USA, along with Women Thrive Worldwide and the Family Violence Prevention Fund, all of whom have worked tirelessly to end violence against women in all corners of the globe. You can be part of the global effort to end gender-based violence and secure the rights of women everywhere: • Get educated. Learn what the I-VAWA means for the international community. • I-VAWA is not yet on the books as an official law. Legislative support is crucial for its success - let your legislators know this bill is important to you! Contact your senators about endorsing this historical piece of legislation. • Visit Amnesty International's Violence Against Women Action Center to find out how you can get involved. • Shop the cause by visiting Women Thrive Worldwide's store supporting economic development for women living in poverty. • Stay informed on Human Rights issues affecting women by joining the Women's Human Rights Network. Photo by mckaysavage, flickr.

The Boy Scouts Celebrate One Hundred Years Of Service

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:47:18 -0800

Originally posted by Anne Driscoll, Tonic. From Harrison Ford to Neil Armstrong to Barack Obama, some of America's most well-known celebrities and well-respected leaders have worn a Scout uniform. As the Boy Scouts celebrate 100 years, Tonic takes a look at the history — and values — of an organization that shapes our nation for the better. Wouldn't the world be a better place if everyone pledged to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent? In the past 100 years since the Boy Scouts of America was founded, 112 million boys have raised their right hand to live up to those homespun standards and uphold the Scout Law, earning merit badges and volunteering for service projects ranging from food collection to conservation. And a significant number of scouts have grown into conscientious adults who continue to contribute in ways, large and small, to the social good. A century ago today, former president Theodore Roosevelt helped found the Boy Scouts of America and served as its first and only Chief Scout Citizen. Since then there have been 18 other US presidents involved with scouting in some capacity, including Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Gerald Ford and John F. Kennedy, each of whom spent at least some of their childhood in a Scouts uniform. No other US youth organization has served as many boys and none can boast such a long roster of luminaries who have, later in life, made such significant impact in politics, public service, commerce, sports, science and entertainment, to name a few. Today, there are 3 million youth Scout members guided by another 1.1 million adult members involved in volunteer and community service projects, crafting boyhood memories and building a foundation for the men they will become. Over the years, many notables have attributed their achievements to their association with scouting. Jimmy Stewart, who was a US Air Force Brigadier General, as well as a movie star, was quoted as saying he wouldn't trade his experiences in Scouting for anything. And just this month, Ed Begley told Tonic that his green roots can be traced to a love of nature that sprouted when he was a scout. Read the full post on Tonic. Photo by Todd Frontom, Wikimedia Commons.

Ten Things You Should Know About Organic Farming

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:44:58 -0800

by ELIZAH LEIGH, Contributing Writer USDA certified organic foods are grown in only .08 percent of the world's total farmland. While this percentage is incredibly small, for certain regions in the United States, organic farming is on the rise. The more educated society become about the benefits of organic farming, the more eco-conscience and health conscious people will be. Here's what you need to know: 1. Since the late 1940s, farmers across the United States have cultivated farmland using biodiverse methods to produce minimally processed fruits and vegetables free of pesticides, antibiotics, synthetic fertilizers, irradiation, hormones, sewage sludge or genetically modified organisms. This agricultural process entails facilitating soil health through the incorporation of compost and green manure as well as utilizing crop rotation techniques. Along with natural weed and pest mitigation efforts, organic farming creates a system of ecological balance. 2. Modern organic farming is inspired by the techniques of British botanist and organic farming pioneer Sir Albert Howard. Howard wrote, "An Agricultural Testament," which outlined his approach to farming. Organic farming was initially embraced by the environmental community due to concern about the escalating use of synthetic fertilizers, but today has garnered even greater support among mainstream consumers rocked by fear over continuous food recalls. 3. The Organic Trade Association determined that organic food sales eclipsed those of mainstream edibles in the U.S. in 2008 with a 15.8 percent increase. Of the $22.9 billion earned, 37 percent of sales were produce-related. In order to ensure food is legitimately organic and farmer accountability is exercised through stringent cultivation standards, a certification process was officially implemented by the USDA in October 2002. 4. Globally, an estimated 32.2 million hectares of land are organically farmed, which is a mere 0.8 percent of the total farmland in the world. In contrast, of the 372 million hectares of conventional U.S. farmland, 2.6 million of those acres were farmed organically in 2007 – less than 1 percent of cropland. 5. The geographic regions that have most heavily focused on organic production in America are located largely in California, the Northeast and Northwest. 6. The longest-running U.S. study comparing organic and conventional farming techniques – spearheaded by the nonprofit group, The Rodale Institute, suggests that if world agricultural efforts were converted entirely over to organic methods, we could effectively combat global warming. In the U.S. alone, the 1.5 trillion pounds of the agriculturally produced CO2 released annually could be eliminated if we relied solely on organic farming methods. 7. Many conventional farmers are hesitant to make the switch over to certified organic techniques. This is not just because organic farming requires one to follow a far greater list of checks and balances, but also because of lower crop yield per acre (sometimes by as much as 20 percent) which cuts into profit margins. Other factors that make the switch undesirable include comprehensive manual labor, sometimes ineffective pest control options and the genetic contamination of open-pollinating crops from nearby GM fields. 8. When all is said and done, organic food ends up costing the consumer from ten to 40 percent more than mainstream versions, but proponents claim that affordable options can be found by joining Community Supported Agriculture groups, shopping at farmer’s markets and shopping in conjunction with sales and coupons. 9. Together, Aurora Milk - manufacturer of Costco, Wild Oats and Safeway private label organic dairy products - and Horizon Organic have 65 percent control of the organic dairy market in the U.S. However, they source their product from feedlot dairies. Remarkably, they aren’t breaking any USDA rules since there are no rules regarding how much pasture cows should have access to. 10. Other companies like Stonyfield Farm rack up serious food miles and questionable eco-ethics by sourcing fruit from foreign companies and contemplating the import of organic milk powder in an effort to meet consumer demand at reduced costs. Photo by David Smith, Wikimedia Commons.

Take Action To Improve Public School Lunch Programs

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 13:24:23 -0800

by ERIN SWAN, Causecast Editor Despite decades of efforts to make lunches healthier in public schools across the U.S., obesity remains on the rise and budget cuts leave many public schools falling short of providing students with nutritious meals. Because of the recession, some students can no longer afford school lunches, while districts are also forced to reduce the amount of aid they can give. Unfortunately, unhealthy processed foods are cheap. Obesity statistics from 2009 reveal that the number of overweight American children has more than tripled since 1980. Poor eating habits negatively affect children's health and put them in jeopardy of developing both Type II diabetes and heart problems. If children today continue to struggle with obesity, they may become the only generation to have a shorter life expectancy than their parents. This problem needs immediate attention. Many states and cities are taking action to change school lunches and keep children healthier. For example, private donations to the Promise Academy in Harlem, New York gives students daily home cooked meals with healthy entrees and fruits and veggies. Similarly, the city of Santa Monica, California has passed a law that mandates that salad bars are stocked with greens from local farmers, available to students at every school in the city. Many nonprofits are also getting involved in the cause. Better School Food, from the makers of "Two Angry Moms," brings nutritious meals to public school students. Similarly, both the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Kaiser Permanente are giving money to schools for healthy lunches. The William J. Clinton Foundation even stopped major soda companies from selling soda to students in middle and elementary schools. Studies from 2005-2009 show that health correlates with academic success. If we want children to succeed, we need to start caring about their health. Children who eat well and engage in physical activity are more likely to test well, behave better, and stay focused. As Dr. Joycelyn Elders, former US Surgeon General, said, "You cannot educate a child who is not healthy and you cannot keep a child healthy who is not educated." How can we help fix this problem? • Persuade organizations and individuals to donate money to schools for healthier meals - health is worth the cost. • Prepare healthy food for your children at home so fruits and vegetables always stay a part of their diet. • Join the Healthy School Lunch Campaign to help schools improve their lunch programs. • Follow Santa Monica's lead and help bring locally grown produce to your school! The website farmtoschool.org gives instructions on how to receive grants for the program. • Check out Ann Cooper (from Berkeley's) website The Lunch Box. Whole Foods Market, gives schools affordable recipes and different ways to change school lunches for the better. Videos and nutritional information are included.This is a perfect site if you're serious about taking action. The Lunch Box gives you all the tools you need to build a case and bring healthy food to your children's cafeteria. Photo by Bruce Tuten, flickr.

Planned Parenthood Ad Featuring Sean James And Al Joyner Responds To Tim Tebow Super Bowl Ad

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 18:55:58 -0800

by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor Leading up to the 44th Super Bowl, anticipation has been building about the controversial pro-life commercial featuring football player Tim Tebow that is set to air during the game. The ad is rumored to show Tebow and his mother discussing her choice to carry through with the pregnancy that produced her football playing son and why that decision justifies her pro-life beliefs. Committed to protecting a woman's right to choose, Planned Parenthood has launched a response ad, also featuring professional athletes. In the commercial, football player Sean James and Olympian Al Joyner explain that pro-choice does not equal encouraging abortions, but it means having respect for all women and their decisions. For more information on how you can take action to protect women's abortion rights, head over to Planned Parenthood's action center. The Planned Parenthood Ad:

Senator Bernie Sanders Introduces Solar Energy Bill For 10 Million Solar Roofs

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:23:48 -0800

by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor Vermont Senator Bernie Saunders has introduced an ambitious bill into Congress that would energize the solar energy industry. The bill would aim to cut carbon emissions across the country by providing incentives like tax breaks for ten million homeowners and business owners that install solar roofs and water heating systems in the next decade. From TreeHugger: If this goes forward, it will be a great way to stimulate development in solar more evenly across the nation, creating jobs, and adding clean energy capacity in a sort of easily digestible, piecemeal fashion. In essence, this is a quick, relatively efficient, relatively inexpensive way to create clean energy and jobs. To say that we need more senators with vision like Sanders' may be the understatement of the year. To get involved promoting this bill: 1. Read the bill in its entirety and make sure you're on board with the plan it lays out. If you find yourself getting lost, refer back to TreeHugger for an easy-to-understand breakdown of the bill. 2. Contact your Senators and urge them to co-sponsor Saunders' bill. Send them letters, e-mails, even tweets - anything to get your message out! 3. Spread the word. Let your friends and family know about the bill and why it's important. Organize a letter writing campaign to maximize your impact on Congress. 4. Stay up to date on the progress of the bill. You can follow Senator Sanders on Twitter! Photo by Wayne National Forest, flickr.

Haitian Born Doctor Returns To Haiti To Help The Injured

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:28:45 -0800

by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor After a catastrophic 7.0 earthquake leveled his former home, Haitian born doctor Henri Ford traveled back to Haiti to help. Bringing his experience as Chief of Surgery at L.A.'s Children's Hospital and a U.S. government team of medics in tow, Ford is working to heal his country's injured. His familiarity with the country's people, geography and language make him especially effective as he goes out into the streets of Port-Au-Prince, actively seeking injured Haitians in need of surgery. To support medical relief efforts in Haiti, you can make a donation to International Medical Corps or any of the other nonprofit organizations providing medical aid in Haiti. The organization MedShare is also recruiting American volunteers to help package medical supplies to be shipped to Haiti. From NPR: Doctor Henri Ford's story:

Kibble For A Cause

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:24:15 -0800

Originally posted by Diane Herbst, Tonic. Mimi Ausland, the junior-high-schooler who invented Freekibble.com, is personally responsible for feeding thousands of dogs and cats in shelters across America. Today, there's an easy way for you to help her do even more. When she was a toddler, Mimi Ausland loved animals so much her parents called her Dr. Doolittle. At her home in Bend, Oregon, Mimi rescued injured birds and fish, even spiders. At the age of seven, told she was too young to work at the local Humane Society, Mimi started mailing spare change to the shelter. "She just has this huge heart and it plays out with animals," says her father, Kelly, 48. "She's always been protective and passionate about animals." In 2008, Mimi, now thirteen, shared her passion with the world in a big way, developing an online trivia game called Freekibble.com and FreekibbleKat.com with the help of her mom and dad. Players answer one question about dogs, another about cats, and whether right or wrong, 10 pieces of kibble per question are donated to a shelter by a holistic pet food maker. In fact, if you play today (Feb. 5), five times the amount of kibble will be raised per question. How much pet food could actually be raised 10 bits at a time, you ask? Since its start on April 1, 2008, Freekibble.com has donated more than 400,000 pounds of dog and cat food. The organization is the sole supplier of food for 14 shelters across the country. Another 60 rescues have received tens of thousands of pounds of huge one-time donations. An average of 45,000 people visit the site daily. "It's so cool, it's really exciting," says Mimi, a seventh grader. "I knew it was important that I did something for others." Scores of financially-strapped animal welfare organizations are grateful. The day after hurricane Fay hit South Florida in August 2008 and destroyed most of the food at Sanctuary Animal Refuge in Clewiston, Mimi contacted the rescue and asked if they needed food. "When I got her email, all I could do was cry," says sanctuary founder Palena Dorsey. "It was like heaven had opened and the hand of God touched my heart." For Mimi, success has increased her awareness of a dire need: hundreds of shelters have now contacted her. "I just got another email from a shelter asking for food," she says. "I would love to feed all of them." Read the full post on Tonic. Photo by Hamed Saber, flickr.

Lyrics Born On Dave Chappelle And Concert Spirituality

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:25:51 -0800

Malibu, California native rapper Lyrics Born was born Tom Shimura, founding member of Bay Area hip hop collective Quannum Projects and veteran artist, collaborator, and general MC-of-all-trades. Keep both eyes open for his seventh album, As U Were, coming soon. Causecast’s Brandon Deroche caught up with Lyrics Born at the Mile High Festival, where they discussed how funny people can change the world, how music can unite the world, and how honesty and optimism will keep you sane in the meantime. Causecast: Are there any activists that have inspired you throughout your life ? Tom Shimura: I think some of the biggest, quote unquote, activists or role models that I’ve had are Malcolm X of course, and probably now, I would even say Obama. There aren't really a lot of activists that really speak to my generation and younger, you know. I think what we’ve been seeing recently is pretty amazing, you know, the way that younger people have taken on a renewed interest in politics and social issues. I think, quite honestly, there are a lot of inspiring people who may not necessarily be out there with a bullhorn, or on a soapbox. For me, especially in popular culture, I feel like the biggest activists are stand-up comedians, because they’re able to say so much - and veil serious topics in humor - which is something a lot of people can’t get away with.

“But when I get on stage, there are four thousand people from different economic backgrounds, different cultural background, different religious backgrounds; could be polar opposites in terms of their political ideas, you know, but it doesn’t matter. All they care about is the music.”
- Tom Shimura

There are such poignant truths in there, when you hear Dave Chappelle talk or you hear, you know, some other guys up there, on a political spiel. To me, that’s the best, like when you hear George Lopez or somebody going off about a certain issue, but because it’s funny, you know - it inspires you to think about it in a way that's not quite as offensive. I think that’s really beautiful. CC: We talk a lot about Revolution today - it’s a word that either means a lot or nothing to you. Tom: I think to me, Revolution, the word, is so overused. It’s a word that’s used so much but you rarely see it in action. I make music and I think the best thing that I can do to contribute is to not do what everybody else is doing, and really try to push things forward, and make sure that what I do tomorrow is not necessarily artistically what I did yesterday, you know? Just in order to keep everything fresh, keep myself stimulated and keep the listener and the audience stimulated. I think for me, that’s how I contribute to change, by continually changing. CC: That being said, what do you think music’s most powerful tool is? Tom: You know, I’ve been doing this for over a decade now. I’m working on my seventh album, I’ve done mixtapes, I’ve started internet TV shows, I’ve started internet radio shows, and I think that it’s all based on what I do with the music. I think the most powerful thing that I think music has done, is A - spawn all those things that I just talked about, but mostly, when I come in to play a festival like Mile High, I get onstage - I dunno who’s buying the tickets, I don’t who’s gonna show up. But when I get on stage, there are four thousand people from different economic backgrounds, different cultural background, different religious backgrounds; could be polar opposites in terms of their political ideas, you know, but it doesn’t matter. All they care about is the music. Each one of those people, they may have totally different life experiences, but the music touches them in much the same way. For me, that’s really the beauty of music, the power it has to create unity and to generate kind of like this… It’s a spiritual thing, really, you know? It’s like a spiritual vibration - it doesn’t matter what your background is, or what your ideology is, everybody taps into it. I firmly believe in it, and I think that’s why it’s so powerful.

"I just have to believe that with every step that I take… It’s a step forward. I don’t think that I necessarily think of it in terms like ‘positive,’ or ‘negative,’ because you can be ‘positive’ and ‘negative,’ and still be boring, and still make bad music."
- Tom Shimura

CC: We also talk a lot about consciousness, and how music affects it. How do think that events like this, as well as your art, play into consciousness? Tom: I think the most important thing for an artist is to be honest. You can’t really worry about who you’re going to offend. I feel like as long as you say something that you feel is unique to yourself, I guarantee you there’s somebody else out there that’s identifying with it. So, from my perspective, I definitely am an eternal optimist. I mean, it’s such a tough business and world that we’re in, so I have to think that tomorrow is going to be better than it was yesterday. Even if it’s just a really small thing. I just have to believe that what I’m doing is contributing to the whole. I just have to believe that with every step I take, I try to make sure that it’s a step forward. And I think, more so than being - I don’t think that I necessarily think of it in terms like ‘positive,’ or ‘negative,’ because you can be, quote unquote, ‘positive’ and ‘negative,’ and still be boring, and still make bad music. And I just feel like, it’s more important just to be honest, and be forward-thinking and optimistic. That’s where I come from. CC: What does the word Peace mean to you? Tom: Wow. What does Peace mean? Calm, across the board. Read more Causecast musician interviews at www.causecast.org/music. More on Lyrics Born: www.LyricsBorn.com Transcription by NICHOLAS CHUNG, Causecast Writer Photo 1 by visnup, flickr. Photo 2 by sillygwailo, flickr.

Ten Things You Should Know About Skin Cancer

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:53:59 -0800
by CLAIRE GRINTON, Contributing Writer 1. There are two types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. While both are dangerous, non-melanoma skin cancer is far more common and less dangerous. About five percent of all skin cancer diagnoses are melanoma, which contributes more than 75 percent of all skin cancer-related deaths. One in five Americans develop skin cancer in their lifetime. 2. Non-melanoma type skin cancer takes place in either basal or squamous cells, which are near the outer layers of skin. Squamous cell carcinoma claims approximately 2,500 American lives each year. Melanoma begins in deep levels of the skin, where melanin is produced. Melanin creates the coloring in skin, which helps protect against the sun. 3. It is crucial to recognize the signs of skin cancer. If you have a mole or spot that you're concerned about, knowing when to go to the doctor is as simple as knowing your ABC's: Asymmetry of the spot, a Border that is blurry or jagged, multiple Colors present or the lightening or darkening of the suspicious area, a Diameter larger than about a quarter of an inch (about the size of a pencil eraser), or Elevation of the mole or spot. Often times, the presence of one of these characteristics is nothing to be worried about, but you should still talk to your doctor, particularly if you notice any changes. 4. There are a number of risk factors for skin cancer, including having fair skin, family history, severe burns in childhood, and exposure to the sun. About one in three Caucasians will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some point during their life. However, skin cancer is deadliest for African Americans, Asians, and Latinos, despite the fact that they have fewer risk factors. 5. There are lots of ways to help prevent sun cancer. Avoid the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., wear protective clothing when out in the sun (including a hat), seek the shade, and remember that you should never use a tanning bed. When you DO have to be out in the sun, the CDC recommends that you apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 with both UVA and UVB protection every hour. To ensure that it's effective, apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside, and remember to reapply after swimming or sweating. 6. The sun's UV rays can still damage your skin if you're indoors (through windows) and on cloudy days. Proper protection should be practiced even during the winter months, when we often forget that we can get burned. 7. There is no such thing as a healthy tan. Vitamin D is great, yes, but any presence of a tan means damage to your skin. 8. Surgery is typically the recommended treatment plan for skin cancer, though topical chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, or radiation therapy may sometimes be suggested. With skin cancer treatment, you run the risk of damaging healthy skin cells, but left untreated, skin cancer is more dangerous than the risk of side effects. 9. About one million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the U.S. In 2009, the number of people diagnosed with melanoma in the U.K. broke 10,000 for the first time. 10. It is often thought that most of your skin exposure occurs before 18, but this simply isn't true. In fact, only about 23 percent of your lifetime exposure occurs before adulthood, which means that you cannot get lax about your skin protection. Need more encouragement? A whopping 90 percent of visible changes attributed to aging come from sun exposure - sunscreen may just become the newest tool in your anti-aging regimen. Photo by Whatsername?, flickr.

An American In Congo: Nicholas Kristof Profiles Lisa Shannon

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:30:40 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor The Democratic Republic of Congo has been involved in one of the world's most deadly wars for almost two decades. Millions have been killed, maimed or displaced by the complicated multi-front war. The conflict weighs most heavily on the country's women and girls, who are brutalized by sexual violence, which is used as a tactic of war by armies and rebel groups. After seeing an episode of the Oprah show that brought the plight of Congolese women to the American audience, a woman named Lisa Shannon was inspired to dedicate her life to helping women in the DRC. Shannon is the founder of the organization Run For Congo Women, which raises money to support Congolese women through the sponsorship programs developed by Women For Women International. Shannon's first book, due out in April, is called A Thousand Sisters and chronicles her journey from watching the Oprah show to working in the streets of Bukavu, Congo. On a recent trip to the DRC, New York Times' columnist Nicholas Kristof profiled Shannon, telling her amazing story in print and on video. No stranger to women's issues himself, Kristof is a journalist committing to highlighting human rights crises around the world. In 2009, Kristof co-authored a book with his wife entitled Half The Sky, an exploration of sexual violence, maternal mortality, poverty and other issues impacting women's lives in the developing world. To make a difference for Congolese women, you can sponsor an individual woman via Women For Women International for just 27 dollars a month. Encourage your friends and family to do the same! You can also raise money by organizing a run to support Congolese women. For other ways you can take action for women in Congo, check out a full list of ideas on the A Thousand Sisters website. Here's Kristof's profile of Shannon: An American in Congo Or read Kristof's full column now.

RecycleBank Rewards People For Recycling

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:23:17 -0800
From Planet Green: RecycleBank was started by two high school friends who have figured out how to get people to take good, green actions: reward them. RecycleBank rewards people by giving them points based on how much they recycle. They can then redeem their points at a variety of stores and outlets. Or, if they don't want points, people can donate their credit to charitable causes, like the Green Schools program. Today, RecycleBank serves over one million people across 20 states in the United States, and that number continues to grow every week. They are already operating in the UK, the program will launch service in Europe this summer, and they have received prestigious awards from the U.N, amongst others. To date, RecycleBank members have collectively saved over 4.4 million trees and over 295 million gallons of gas through weekly recycling efforts. Possibly one of the best parts of the deal, though, is over 40-50% of all rewards redeemed are at local businesses. To find out more on how you can sign-up for RecycleBank, head over to recyclebank.com. How the RecycleBank works: Read the full post on Planet Green. Photo by dreamymo, flickr.

The Drop Dairy Challenge

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:19:52 -0800
First printed on GirlieGirlArmy.com: Your Glamazon Guide to Green Living. What a week! Oprah hosts a show on food with bestselling author Michael Pollan and The Kind Diet author Alicia Silverstone, who goes vegan food shopping with Oprah’s camera crew. And Mercy for Animals’ new shocking dairy farm investigation lands stories on Nightline and ABC World News Tonight with Diane Sawyer. Today Marisa Miller-Wolfson of Kind Green Planet challenges you to drop dairy for one week! Those who’ve seen footage of dairy farms wouldn’t have been surprised by the cruelty depicted in the footage. Not only are many of the practices common throughout the industry, but they’re not even illegal, including: • Calves having their horns burned off without painkillers. • Calves having their tails cut off without painkillers - a practice opposed by the American Veterinary Medical Association. • Newborn calves dragged away from their mourning Mothers. • Cows living in overcrowded sheds on manure-coated concrete flooring. But it’s the stuff that didn’t land on the news that hit me in the gut. Check out the investigator’s diary for a more complete picture of daily operations. Read the full post on GirlieGirl Army. Photo by canadianfamily, flickr.

Haiti's Angel House: All 26 Orphans Survive The Earthquake

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:40:00 -0800
Originally posted by Will Laughlin, Tonic. When Haiti's Angel House orphanage crumbled to the ground on Jan. 12, all 26 children inside survived. Then the real miracle happened. Like all children in Haiti, the residents of Angel House orphanage were shaken and tumbled for fifteen terrifying seconds shortly before nightfall on January 12. When the rumbling stopped, the orphanage was a crumbled wreck of concrete and rebar — yet the entire group of 26 orphans was not only alive, but unharmed. The children and their caregivers spent the next few nights and days huddled in a nearby tin-roofed church, feeling lucky to be alive and blessed to be together while the world outside howled with grief and the dirt floor below erupted with taunting aftershocks. But their survival would be just the first of several miracles they would experience in the days ahead. At 3 a.m. on January 18th they would be ushered through the gates of the US Embassy; a few short hours later, they would be strapped into the plush seats of a private jet en route to Florida. By January 19th they would be living in comfortable homes in California, Arizona, Illinois and throughout the U.S. And they would not be orphans anymore. Not one of them. With so many obstacles impeding aid, extractions and adoptions in the wake of the 2010 Haiti earthquake, how did this small orphanage manage to rescue and place their children so quickly and completely? Gretchen Huijskens, the founder of Angel House and its parent organization, Three Angels Children's Relief, attributes their success to several factors. Move Fast One of these critical factors was simply acting without hesitation. "When we went to Haiti immediately after the earthquake," she says, "I didn't even think it would be possible to get the children out. We were just going down to ensure that their basic needs were met." But by getting on the first available flight to Haiti and showing up first at the embassy, they had a decisive advantage and were able to evacuate the children before the embassy was overwhelmed and extractions became mired in confusion and protocol. Huijskens and the children rushed from the embassy to board the last airplane allowed out of Haiti before Bill Clinton's arrival would shut the airport down indefinitely. The process happened so fast, says adoptive parent, Eric Schweig, that "we were totally physically unprepared. We weren't expecting to have Sebastian here for one and a half to three years and I had to clear out my office at the last minute for him." While he was traveling to and from Florida to pick up his infant son, friends rushed in to donate "everything you could think of" for Sebastian and to transform Schweig's office into a well-appointed, childproofed nursery. Now that Sebastian is home, says Schweig, "I've never seen anyone smile so much. He smiles all day long." Colleen Monfils, a Three Angels board member whose family instantly expanded from five members to seven after the earthquake, was similarly caught off guard by the speed at which Huijskens moved. "We weren't expecting Daniel (5) or Jonathan (10) for several more years, but we're so excited now." Read the full post on Tonic. Photo by DVIDSHUB, flickr.

Ten Things You Should Know About Breast Cancer

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:56:04 -0800
by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer Breast cancer is something most women don't think they need to worry about until they are retired or grandmothers. The reality is, breast cancer can affect women of almost any age. There is no cure for breast cancer, and experts still aren't exactly sure what causes it. Knowing the facts and preventative steps to take are key to fighting this deadly disease. Here's what you need to know: 1. In the U.S., a new breast cancer diagnosis occurs every three minutes. Every 13 minutes, a woman dies from breast cancer. 2. It's estimated that one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. 3. Next to skin cancer, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women regardless of race or ethnicity. Overall, breast cancer is the seventh leading cause of death in women. For women ages 20-59, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death. 4. Each year, an average of 40,000 women will die of breast cancer. That's approximately 20 percent of the total diagnoses in a year's time. The American Cancer Society estimated 192,370 new breast cancer diagnoses in 2009. 5. Men can develop breast cancer also. Breast cancer is not as common in men, but it is still a possibility. In 2007, more than 2,000 men were diagnosed with breast cancer - one percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. 6. Common risk factors for breast cancer include gender, age, personal history, and genetics. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. The greatest risk factor in developing breast cancer is gender. Women are 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer than men. 7. Genetics play a big role in developing breast cancer. If someone in your family is diagnosed with breast cancer, plan to schedule a mammogram five years before the age at which your family member was diagnosed. It is recommended that all women get medical breast examinations every three years when they are between the ages of 20 to 39 and every year after they turn 40. 8. Self-examination is important to breast cancer detection. Knowing what feels normal is the best way to identify changes. Approximately 70 percent of breast cancer diagnoses are the result of self-detection. 9. Breast cancer symptoms include: lump in the breast or armpit, thickening or swelling of part of the breast, abnormal discharge, pain, irritation and change in size. If you have any symptoms, talk to your doctor. 10. There are steps that can be taken to reduce your chances of getting breast cancer. For instance, controlling your weight and maintaining a healthy diet can reduce your risk. Limiting your alcohol intake can decrease your risk as well. Also, know your family history and if your genetics put you at risk. Finally, get screened regularly. The best way to fight breast cancer is to catch it early. Photo by Seattle Municipal Archives, flickr.

LEED Certified NFL Stadium In The Works For Los Angeles

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:38:15 -0800
by ERIN SWAN, Causecast Editor The City of Angels and billionaire Ed Roski, plan to spread their eco-friendly wings and end the 16 year long lull for Los Angeles football fans. An $800 million stadium, 15 miles south of Los Angeles, is in the works. Roski thinks the location is key (even though he already owned the land) because it's freeway accessible to Orange County, Riverside County, Los Angeles, and San Bernandino County. Aedas architects designed the eco-friendly stadium to be the first NFL stadium LEED certified. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, gives certificates to buildings that implement green technology and environmentally sustainable practices. The stadium, which could be completed as early as next year, will be home to more than just football fans. Roski describes it as, "a major entertainment complex," that will house shops, office space, restaurants, a live theater and cinema. Aedas plans to build the massive complex using the surrounding area's hillside as support for 60 percent of the building. Steel use will be reduced as well as cost. Other green measures include; major recycling efforts, areas to collect storm water, and reduced CO2 emissions from the building. In a city like L.A., where smog and pollution are rampant, an eco-conscious stadium sounds like a big step forward. California is often a forefront in innovation, and L.A.'s new stadium will hopefully inspire other cities to green their sports complexes and more. Plans for the L.A. Stadium: Photo by Jayel Aheram, flickr.

UNICEF Launches Immunization Campaign In Haiti

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:20:00 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor Three weeks after a 7.0 earthquake ripped through Haiti, UNICEF and their international partners have launched a large scale campaign to vaccinate Haitian children against disease. Since the earthquake left millions homeless, many children are living in tents or other makeshift shelters, or lacking shelter altogether. In the midst of this turmoil and displacement, children are exposed to the elements, often without adequate food and water, and at risk for contracting many diseases. The immunizations will protect children from measles, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough, some of the most deadly diseases. To support UNICEF in their immunization campaign and their other work to protect children in Haiti, make a donation online. You can also purchase immunization shots for a child on our online store via International Medical Corps. Video footage of UNICEF's immunization campaign: Photo by UNICEF Sverige, flickr.

Video Games Raise Money For Haiti Relief?

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:22:22 -0800
In response to the devastating earthquake that rocked the island nation of Haiti three weeks ago, American companies have made significant contributions to the relief efforts on the ground. Some have found creative ways to incorporate aid for Haiti into their business model. GOOD Magazine investigates how video game companies are responding. From GOOD: ...what are videogame companies doing to aid the crisis [in Haiti]? The response so far has been mixed. I reached out to a bunch of companies to see what they were doing, and only a few responded. Sony donated items to IGN's telethon, for example, and a spokesman said there was a "general corporate push." LucasArts "made a sizable donation and encouraged employees to contribute to the relief effort." One area that has started to do that is the world of social games and massively multiplayer online games. "FarmVille" and "Mafia Wars" creator Zynga offered special in-game items that would translate into donations for the relief effort, and PopCap did the same with an entire day's worth of sales. The members of Hello Kitty Online are also rallying to collect donations. Sony Online Entertainment raised $25,000 in three days through in-game items for games like "EverQuest." Read the full story on GOOD Magazine. Photo by RebeccaPollard, flickr.

How To Keep Your Heart Healthy

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:57:43 -0800
by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer It's the beginning of a new year and millions of Americans are committing to living healthier. Gym membership sales skyrocket in January every year. Diet programs also see spikes in new participants at the start of each new year. Even though many ambitious New Year's resolutions seem to fizzle out by about March, keeping up a healthier lifestyle year round means a healthier heart, and a healthier heart means a longer life. Heart disease is the single greatest cause of death among Americans. In fact, heart disease is more deadly than five other leading causes of death combined. The American Heart Association estimates that 64 million Americans are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. That's more than 20 percent of us. Making simple changes to your lifestyle can prevent devastating cardiovascular concerns and promote lifelong heart health. Diet and exercise are key, but so is self discipline. Here are tips to keep your ticker in check. Step One: Go natural. Here's a not so well kept secret: fad diets don't work, and obesity continues to be a major issue for millions of Americans. Getting the weight off in a safe way requires a lasting commitment to eating healthy. Unfortunately, heart health doesn't come in pre-packaged meal. Changing your diet to include heart smart foods is a major step to maintaining a healthy heart. Here's what you need to do: • Get plenty of fiber. Fiber helps with weight, appetite control and contributes to healthy cholesterol levels. You should have a minimum of 25 grams of fiber everyday, but shoot for 40 grams. • Eat your veggies. Along with being high in fiber, fruits and vegetables are full of heart-protecting antioxidants. Make sure you eat at least five servings a day of colorful vegetables (like berries, peppers, and carrots) and don't forget the leafy greens. Green veggies contain folate, which is essential for heart health. • Curb your carbs. Too many carbohydrates can cause your blood sugar to fluctuate drastically, leaving you with greater risks for developing heart disease and diabetes. Eat whole grain whenever you can and limit the amount of sugar you consume. • Cut the salt. I know, who doesn't love salty snacks? But a diet high in sodium can cause major issues and high blood pressure. The recommended daily sodium intake is 2300 mg. That's about a teaspoon. Most of us consume at least twice that. Be conscious of how much salt you eat and take steps to limit your sodium levels. • Lose the booze. Excessive drinking robs your body of essential vitamins needed to maintain good heart health. So limit your alcohol intake, or cut out booze all together. Step Two: Say no to trans fats. Your body needs fats in order to produce energy and promote cell growth, but the problem is most of us consume way too many fats. Plus the fats we consume are often the wrong kinds of fat, which is really bad for the heart. Trans fats are created when oils are injected with hydrogen. Think french fries, cookies, anything fried, popped, or found in a drive-through is likely to come with trans fats. Trans fats are so bad that state and local governments are starting to look at the long term effects they have on our bodies. This January, California became the first state to completely ban the use of trans fats in restaurants. This law makes eating out a little safer, but what about the food you have at home? • Make sure you check the nutrition labels on store bought items. By law, trans fats are required to be listed separately from other saturated fats. • Check ingredients for words like "hydrogenated." Products with hydrogenated anything should be avoided. • If you are eating out, avoid fried foods, share portions and don't be afraid to ask how your food is prepared. Lean towards ordering baked, grilled or broiled foods. Don't be afraid of fats all together. There are good fats that your heart actually needs. Monounsaturated fats can help lower blood pressure and promote healthy cholesterol levels. Foods like avocados, almonds and olive oil are great sources of fat. Yes, it's true, your heart needs guacamole. Step Three: Quit smoking. Smoking is the single most preventable cause of death in the United States. Every year, nearly half a million Americans die from complications directly related to smoking. Most would associate death from smoking with lung cancer or other respiratory conditions, but 135,000 deaths are related to cardiovascular disease. Even if you diet and eat well, smoking can still leave you three times more likely to develop heart disease than someone who doesn't smoke. Don't try to quit smoking cold turkey. To find help, check out the American Heart Association's smoker's resources. Quitting isn't easy, but your heart will definitely thank you. Step Four: Get moving. As little as 30 minutes a day of movement, any kind of movement, contribute to keeping your heart healthy. Your heart is a muscle and it needs exercise. Find something you love to do and make it part of your routine. Here are a few tips to make sure your workout is optimal: • Start slow. It's not necessarily a good idea to go out and run a marathon in the name of heart health. Not on your first day, anyway. Limit your workout to 30 minutes a day for three to four days a week. The more you workout, the more your endurance levels will increase. You can opt for longer workouts once your body has built up some endurance. • Drink water. Make sure you hydrate before, after, and during your workout. You should drink at least 64 ounces of water every day. Try not to guzzle water during your workout. Take small sips and then drink plenty of water when you're finished. • Stretch. Spend some time stretching before you work out and when your muscles are warm, stretch some more to cool down. Not stretching leads to soreness and soreness leads to not wanting to workout. It's a vicious cycle. • Workout with a friend. Find a buddy committed to his or her own cardiovascular care and train together. You'll be especially thankful on those mornings when staying in bed seems much more appealing than breaking a sweat before sunrise. Accountability is everything. Good luck! Photo by SashaW, flickr.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Launches 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell' Story Project

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:20:54 -0800
Originally posted on b-listed. Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, a policy in which openly LGBT individuals are prevented from serving in the U.S. military, is one that activists have been protesting for years. It actually prohibits anyone who “demonstrate(s) a propensity or intent to engage in homosexual acts” from serving in the armed forces of the United States, because “it would create an unacceptable risk to the high standards of morale, good order and discipline, and unit cohesion that are the essence of military capability.” This past October, President Obama said that he would end the policy that has lead to 13,000 servicemen and women being discharged. He said, “We should not be punishing patriotic Americans who have stepped forward to serve the country…We should be celebrating their willingness to step forward and show such courage…” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is tired of waiting around. She has launched the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Story Project, which houses stories of those that have affected by these policies. Like, Tonya Domi, former Captain, U.S. Army: I was called in, read my Miranda rights, not knowing what I was accused of. It produces fear and anxiety, lack of confidence. I was asked lewd and embarrassing questions. I was told lesbianism is degenerate and disgusting. It is totally malevolent. You shut down as a person, which makes you shut down as a soldier. When the soldier is compromised, the unit is compromised too. And this is just one of many stories that servicemen and women have shared. You can add your own story on the site. The project asks for you to take action and sign the petition calling for an end the unfair policy that denies rights to those that risk their lives for this country. Originally posted on b-listed. Photo by The U.S. Army, flickr.

GOOD Magazine Contest: Create An Infographic About The Haiti Earthquake

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:15:33 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor As part of an ongoing series, GOOD Magazine has announced a contest that asks design-minded readers to create infographics that explain the impact of the recent 7.0 earthquake in Haiti and the relief efforts that have followed the disaster. The contest is a collaboration with Design For Haiti that gives amateur designers an opportunity to showcase an original (and educational) work of art. What is an infographic, you ask? Just as the word's two halves imply, an infographic is an image that creatively displays facts and information about a specific topic. Check out GOOD's transparency series for examples of infographics on various subjects. If you've got a creative inkling, this might be the perfect opportunity to build your own knowledge about the situation in Haiti, while producing a work of art that expresses the information you've acquired. The winning submission will be featured in GOOD Magazine, both online and in print. In addition to having their work featured, the winner will also receive a free subscription and GOOD t-shirt. Submissions are due February 9. For more information on the contest, head over to the GOOD website. Photo from the fine folks at GOOD.

Humane Society Takes Action For Horses On Capitol Hill

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:31:34 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor Last week, Humane Society of the United States advocates along with actors Kelly Carlson and Wendie Malick, convened in Washington to bring attention to the issue of horse slaughter and cruelty. Together, the coalition hopes to urge Congress to pass the Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act in 2010. The act will prohibit both domestic slaughter of horses for human consumption and outlaw the shipment of horses to international horse meat suppliers. Head over the Humane Society website for more information on how to e-mail or call your Congressional reps and urge them to co-sponsor the Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act. From HSUS: Urge Congress to protect horses now! Photo by tibchris, flickr.

Child Writing Prodigy Tweeting Up $10,000 for Haiti

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:22:43 -0800
Originally posted by Katherine Gustafson, Tonic. Adora Svitak is one of those kids it's hard to believe actually exist — a child prodigy, a genius. A self-described "educator, poet and humanitarian" called by others a tiny literary giant, she published her first book, a collection of short stories called Flying Fingers, at age seven. Now, at 12, she is attempting to raise $10,000 for Save the Children's relief efforts in Haiti through her Twitter account. She has committed to donating one penny for each new person who follows her, with the goal of netting 1 million new followers. She will also donate the proceeds from sales of her books, Flying Fingers and Dancing Fingers, at the eTech Ohio conference at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, where she was scheduled to give the opening keynote address on Monday. Read the full post on Tonic. Follow Adora on Twitter. Photo by trekkyandy, flickr.

Gay Olympians To Be Welcomed At 2010 Winter Olympics

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:42:01 -0800
by NAIVASHA DEAN, Causecast Editor In December 2008, The New York Times reported that the United Nations declaration seeking to decriminalize homosexuality and condemn homophobic human rights violations won the support of only 66 countries in the General Assembly. Among the notably absent supporters of the nonbinding measure? The United States, along with Russia, China, and the Roman Catholic Church. The Organization of the Islamic Conference went so far as to read an opposing statement, which was supported by 60 nations. The statement said that the declaration threatened to normalize pedophilia, among other acts. A little more than two years later, the nations of the world will converge for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, which are taking place February 12-28, 2010. The Winter and Summer Olympics, as forums where countries with opposing views meet face to face, are often treated as political platforms. Even so, the issue of LGBT rights has rarely been on the Games' radar. This year, however, Change.org reports that the Canadian Organization GayWhistler, located in the Olympic host town of Whistler, British Columbia, is opening up a lounge they are calling PRIDE House. The lounge, which will welcome gay atheletes and their supporters, is part of the organization's mission to help make the 2010 Olympics the most inclusive in history. Although PRIDE House aspires to provide a fun and relaxing environment for gay Olympians, it espouses a serious purpose. Homosexuality is subject to the death penalty in seven countries, and banned in nearly 80 countries, many of which will be at the Olympics this winter. PRIDE House aspires to "educate and make aware[ness] that LGBT people are still discriminated against and in some cases persecuted for being or assumed to be homosexual." In anticipation of the Congressional hearings related to "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in the U.S., which begin February 2, dialogue about LGBT rights is once again filling the airwaves. It will be interesting to see if the issue gets any airtime at the upcoming Winter Olympics, and whether anyone shows up at PRIDE house to celebrate the increasing inclusivity of the Olympic Games. Photo by uncleweed, flickr.

Shwayze On The Music of Peace And The Peace of Music

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 18:42:19 -0800
Malibu, California native Shwayze is sometime MTV reality show star, but mostly fulltime rapper, most recently with 2009’s Let It Beat. Shwayze spoke to Causecast’s own fulltime star, Brandon Deroche, about surviving in a changing music industry, getting involved in causes this year, and promoting Peace through music. Causecast: It feels like we’re in a time of transition, with an underground shift taking place in culture, where generally you see more and more businesses, celebrities, and artists getting involved with more cause related initiatives. Do you notice this happening? Shwayze: In 2010, people are getting more involved and are becoming very aware of what’s going on in the world, and how every person can make a difference, you know what I mean? Especially artists, we have a way to get in touch with a lot more people, you know? And whatever our views are, we can't push them, but at least show people what we’re thinking and they have their own free will to fall back on and understand. I think that’s really funny, because I’ve actually been talking a lot lately - with my family and different people - trying to figure out how and what different charities and things I want to get involved with, build awareness for different things, you know? Whether it be global warming or… There’s tons of different things. But yeah, I do think that we are in that kind of time right now, and I’m confident things are changing for the better because of that. I think we are becoming more aware. I think we are in a good time.

“The only thing really holding you back, as an up-and-coming artist, or an artist that’s already established, is yourself, because it’s very easy for you to get your music out to everyone.”
- Shwayze

CC: What do you think is the role of your music, and music in general, in bringing about that shift? Shwayze: I think that the good thing about our music is - when I read the blogs, and I read all the conversation boards and all that - the good thing about our music is that we’re not so concerned about the stupid things. A lot of rappers and a lot of hip hop music is just so focused on the wrong things: the money, the cars. All these things are just personal ways of showing success, which is horrible, and I think that we all have to think and move as one in order for us to get better. I think music is a big and an amazing way for people to come together and realize what’s going on, because a song can be so powerful and a song is forever. When we write our songs I think we just try to show peace and love and having a good time; we do have those party songs, but nothing is ever negative. There’s no degrading of women. There’s no negativity and we do make a conscious effort of that. And I think, more and more, we try to keep our fans and everyone aware of how we feel on our views, through our music as a beacon. CC: You mentioned Peace. What does Peace mean to you? Shwayze: I think being good to others, and just being good to yourself, mentally. I think you need to give love, just for the fact of love, and not looking for anything in return. That’s another thing - you don’t want to give back or have a certain kind of view to get something in return for yourself. This is genuinely from your heart, trying to make a difference and make things better. That’s what we all need to do, and I think if we do that, without looking for any self-promotion or anything selfish, and you’re thinking just about the good of other people, that’s what Peace is. CC: Do you have any causes in particular that you’re passionate about? Shwayze: The way I’ve done it so far is, I’ve gotten a hybrid car, you know what I mean? Next, I want to get involved with an actual organization or foundation. I figure that’s my next step. Slowly but surely, I’m trying to get more people into hybrids and recycling, because the Earth is where we’re living and we gotta take care of it. Soon we won’t have any natural resources that we need to have to survive. I’m really going to be getting hands-on and getting into a lot of organizations that I’m really passionate about. Also, it’s like a great organization for me, too - the power that you have when you’re an artist. I only realize that now as we tour more and more and I see how many people are coming to our shows, and how many people that look to us for an answer. Sometimes you go to your parents, or you go to the news, but sometimes you go to the people that you really look up to. I’m realizing that that person is me, to a lot of the kids. So 2010 is gonna be a great year for me, as far as that. CC: Beyond using music as a means to raise awareness for causes, we’re also about treating music itself as a cause - exploring ways to deal with the state of today's music industry. So, what do you find to be the biggest struggle as an artist to survive, progress, and succeed?

"And I think, more and more, we try to keep our fans and everyone aware of how we feel on our views, through our music as a beacon."
- Shwayze

Shwayze: We all know that there’s not a lot of records selling nowadays, right? So there’s that fall-back. But at the same time, there’s technology - which is also the cause of that, I guess, with the illegal downloading and and all that. Music is going to be pretty much free. I mean, it is basically free, right now. But at the other end, there are a lot of ways to expose yourself and to get yourself out there, by yourself. The only thing really holding you back, as an up-and-coming artist, or an artist that’s already established, is yourself, because it’s very easy for you to get your music out to everyone. For instance, there are infinite artists. You make a song; now anyone’s able to go and record a song, through any kind of computer. Now you’re able to make music at home and directly put it out to thousands of people through your MySpace and your Facebook, uploaded the same night. Now ten years ago, the only way you could do something like that was by making the song and then waiting. Either you would have to go to a studio to do that and you’d have to pay the studio fees. Then you'd have to hand-by-hand go and meet people and give them your demo's... I did that. I know. So now, there’s two sides of the spectrum. There’s the technology, to the point where everyone can go download music for free, but then there’s the side where you can give your music out to everyone and build awareness for whatever it is you’re trying to make. If it’s good, people will have it, and you’ll have respect, and you can find ways to make money. So there’s all these ways to make it, so you can make a living. But it is hard - you just have to put your all into it. Read more Causecast musician interviews at www.causecast.org/music. More on Shwayze: www.Shwayze.com Listen to songs from Let It Beat: www.MySpace.com/Shwayze Transcription by NICHOLAS CHUNG, Causecast Writer Photo 1 by Mac James Ward, flickr. Photo 2 by Bavvro, flickr.

February's YouTube Video Volunteers: Jesse McCartney Says Stand Up For A Health Organization

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:40:33 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor Each month, YouTube Video Volunteers rally the YouTube community to use their video resources to raise awareness about nonprofits working on the specific cause. This February, a month that includes both National Heart Month and World Cancer Day, is understandably focused on health organizations. As February's Video Volunteers spokesperson, singer and actor Jesse McCartney is promoting his favorite health organization, Stand Up To Cancer and encouraging others to get involved bringing attention to the nonprofit nearest to their heart. Submissions are due February 23. To get started, pick a health nonprofit you've been involved with or pick one from the Video Volunteer Opportunities list. Make a short video promoting the nonprofit and post it to the Video Volunteers page - it's as simple as that. The winners will be featured (alongside Jesse McCartney) on the YouTube homepage. Here's Jesse McCartney's video post:

Living Vegan For Dummies

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:45:35 -0800
First printed on GirlieGirlArmy.com: Your Glamazon Guide to Green Living. Without making you feel like a dummy, GirlieGirl Army homegirl Alexandra Jamieson (she of Oprah, 30 Days and Super Size Me fame) has written the one-stop-shopping book for anyone interested in making the switch to a healthier and more compassionate plant-based lifestyle. Why we love this book: While explaining the who’s, what’s, why’s and how’s, this natural health and nutrition expert provides tips and roadmaps for beginners starting on the vegan path from every stage of life. Without preaching, Jamieson gives advice on how athletes, pregnant women, parents, kids, teens and even retired folks can make informed choices on how to transition to veganism. While providing tips for getting kids to love their veggies, Alexandra also shares how to navigate tricky social situations, traveling while vegan and lists of great snack foods for everyone to share - even meat eaters. Did I mention she also covers how to live in a mixed-household and keep your relationship harmonious when one person eats meat and the other doesn’t? Read the full post on GirlieGirl Army. Photo by eyeliam, flickr.

'We Are The World' Song Re-recorded For Haiti Relief

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:57:38 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN, Causecast Associate Editor February 1, a group of some of the world's biggest performers will convene in Los Angeles to record a new version of Quincy Jones' 1985 hit "We Are The World." The original single raised money to alleviate hunger in Africa; the new version will raise funds for earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. No word yet on which nonprofit organization (or organizations) will be the happy recipients of the song's proceeds. From MSNBC: Twenty-five years after star-studded anthem "We Are the World" raised millions of dollars to aid famine relief in Africa, celebrities of a different generation were set to gather Monday night to re-record the charity tune to benefit Haiti. Among those scheduled to perform on the revamped track the night after the Grammy Awards were Akon, Jason Mraz, Bono, Wyclef Jean, Carlos Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Usher, Toni Braxton and Lady Gaga. The session will be held at the same recording studio where the original was cut — the historic A&M complex in Hollywood. Photo by World Economic Forum, Wikimedia Commons.

MedShare Sends Over 6,000 lbs Of Medical Supplies To Haiti

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:06:11 -0800
by ERIN SWAN, Causecast Editor MedShare, a nonprofit committed to sending medical supplies to impoverished countries, has packed over 6,000 pounds of diapers, syringes, and other medical necessities for Haiti in the last two weeks. CNN reports that MedShare needs volunteers over the next couple of months to help in relief efforts. For more information on how you can help package medical supplies to be sent to Haiti, check out Medshare's volunteer opportunities. One volunteer, Tatiana Jean-Louis, a young woman whose family originates from Haiti and the Bahamas, packs supplies to help her own healing process. She, like many Haitian-Americans, has family and friends affected by the earthquake. She stresses that, "help is coming" and that MedShare is working as hard as possible to get supplies to Haiti. Explaining how volunteering helps her overcome her grief, she says, "I don't want to cry anymore...I just want to help." From CNN:

Global Homelessness May Be On The Rise Due To Climate Change

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:33:51 -0800
by ERIN SWAN, Causecast Editor Recent tragedies like Hurricane Katrina and the earthquake in Haiti have turned the world's attention to the importance of preparing for natural disasters. With the climate changing as quickly as it is, more floods, droughts, and natural disasters could destroy homes and eventually make populated areas unlivable. Cities like England's East Yorkshire, are preparing for disaster. The Institution of Civil Engineers and the Royal Institute of British Architects are building gondolas to save people from the floods that will likely occur in the area. In preparing for the worst, East Yorkshire hopes that fewer people will lose their homes or their lives in the event of disaster. In a recent blog posted on treehugger, Earthwatch's Caroline Chisholm explains that architectural changes may not be the only answer. She argues that people around the world need to be more environmentally conscious and help reduce carbon emissions. In doing so, pollution will reduce and perhaps have a direct impact on natural disasters and the rise of the world's homeless population. Originally posted on treehugger: People become homeless for varied and complex reasons. And unless you can guarantee that you'll never face any serious issues with family, relationships, employment, health, abuse, alcohol or drugs, then you may be vulnerable to homelessness at some stage in your life. Now, our basic right to shelter is under threat from a new phenomenon: climate change. According to the International Organization for Migration, 20 million people were made homeless last year as a result of sudden-onset environmental disasters. But that could rise to one billion in the next 40 years as the effects of climate change take hold, testing not only public attitudes but our capacity to provide support and accommodation. Read full article on treehugger.com. Photo by Patrick Doheny, flickr.

Ten Things You Should Know About The International Criminal Court

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:38:37 -0800
by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer The only thing worse than the crimes committed against humanity, is when such crimes go unpunished. Following World War II, the Nuremburg and Tokyo trials addressed, for the first time in recorded history, war crimes, crimes against peace and crimes against humanity. Since the atrocities of WWII, the global community has realized the need to establish an independent, and permanent and court to try heinous crimes against the international community. In 2002, the global community established the International Criminal Court. 1. The International Criminal Court is the first permanent global court established to prosecute those suspected of crimes against the international community. 2. The ICC is independent of the United Nations, but has a cooperative relationship with the U.N. 3. When the idea of court was introduced in 1998, 120 member states of the U.N. signed the treaty committing to establish the ICC. When the court treaty was officially recognized in 2002, 60 states had ratified. Currently, the ICC has 110 member states. The United States is not currently among the participating states. 4. The ICC is based in The Hague in the Netherlands. The Court holds jurisdiction over crimes committed in regions of member states and over crimes committed by individuals who claim citizenship in member states. If a crime is committed in a non-member state, the state has the authority to accept or reject the ICC's jurisdiction. Ratified states must cooperate with ICC investigations and pending prosecution. 5. There are only three ways a case can be brought before the ICC: A member state or the U.N. Security Council can refer a case to the court for investigation, or an ICC prosecutor can launch an investigation based on information received from an NGO, victim or other reliable source. 6. Cases brought before the ICC are judged by one of eighteen elected judges. Elected prosecutor lead a case's investigation and eventually try the case before the court. ICC officials are elected by participating states. 7. In the first four months of 2009, the ICC held a total of 65 hearings accounting for 217 hours of court time. 8. Since it's inception, the ICC has held two official trials. Perpetrators in both cases were war criminals from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The third trial, likely to be held early this year, involves a third Congolese war criminal. 9. So far, all of the charges filed by the ICC are against perpetrators involved in situations in African nations. One of the most notorious, and elusive, criminals wanted but the ICC is Uganda's rebel force leader, Joseph Kony. Kony is wanted on charges of war crime and crimes against humanity. 10. The budget for the ICC is primarily funded by participating states. The 2009 approved budget was more than 100 million euros (approximately $144 million). By April 30 of last year only about 42 percent of contribution had been received. That's down from 73 percent at the same time in 2008. Photo by Jvhertum, Wikimedia Commons.

Baltimore Homeless Community Makes A Donation To Haiti Relief Efforts

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 12:30:03 -0800
From the Baltimore Sun: Donations for Haiti have poured in to the American Red Cross of Central Maryland from a range of sources. Nothing, though, has stood out like the coins and crumpled dollar bills that spilled from one envelope. That gift - $14.64 - came from the pockets of homeless people at a downtown Baltimore shelter. "We were all weepy-eyed," recalled Red Cross volunteer coordinator Bobbie Jones, who was at the front desk when the donation arrived. Read the full story on the Baltimore Sun. Photo by adam*b, flickr.

Coke's New PlantBottle Hits The Shelves

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 12:12:11 -0800
Originally posted by David Bois, Tonic. Thirsty for change and feeling the pressure to reduce the use of plastics, Coca Cola Co. has brought its PlantBottle to US shelves and aims to make a big marketing push for the upcoming Winter Olympics. Updating a story we brought you back in November, the plans announced last fall by Coca-Cola Co. to market their products in more environmentally friendly packaging is now a reality. The Wall Street Journal reports that Coke's progress in the successful development and launch of their PlantBottle is just the beginning, with a major marketing effort expected to tie in to the upcoming Winter Olympics, and hopes to step up the use of the new bottle dramatically during the course of 2010. Read the full story on Tonic. Photo by chardeenly, flickr.

Green Streets: Solving Storm Water Runoff (VIDEO)

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:08:25 -0800
by BRANDON BUCK, Causecast Video Producer To update our post from last week about Los Angeles going berserk for El Nino rains, Net Green News reports on how Portland Oregon handles their rainfall in a more natural, sustainable way. Portland receives an annual 37 inches of rain per year (Los Angeles averages 15.5 inches), and one way to help prevent overflooding of streets and rivers is to build curbside "green streets," which are vegetative islands between roads and sidewalks. They plants absorb the water and the soil breaks down the chemical runoff from cars. Net Green News adds that Portland has budgeted $1.4 Billion by the end of 2011 to manage the stormwater, and plans to create an additional 150 green streets in that time, totaling 900 citywide. Is there a particular spot in your city that plunges into water when a light drizzle comes? If you have an iPhone, try using Citysourced to photograph the area and suggest installing a green street on the spot.

An Evening Of High Consciousness: 20 City Benefit Concert Series Kicks Off In L.A.

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:53:02 -0800
by ERICA LIEPMANN and ERIN SWAN Kicking off January 28th in Los Angeles, a 20-city benefit concert series brings together musicians and activists associated with the humanitarian mission of Gyalwang Drukpa, a leader of Tibetan Buddhism. Through the Drukpa Charitable Foundation, Gyalwang Drukpa has been a leading advocate for service and peace around the world. The concerts and other events taking place around the country will build momentum in anticipation of the Gyalwang Drukpa's upcoming visit to the U.S. The Los Angeles event, an "Evening of Higher Consciousness," will be held at Club Lingerie (6507 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles CA). In light of the recent earthquake in Haiti, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to relief efforts. Every concert will be hosted by a famous celebrity and have performances from musicians and DJs. Local community heroes will be showcased and applauded for their philanthropic work. The Gyalwang Grupta hopes to inspire and promote humanitarianism through this concert series. Buy your tickets online now at www.drupkausa.org and www.musictoday.com. For more information visit:DrupkaUSA and DrukpaUSA on Twitter. Organizations participating in the event include CauseCast, Go Green Expo, Sean Healy Presents, Myman Abell Fineman Fox Greenspan & Light, LLP, and Loyalty Creative. Photo of Ben Lee

What's The Carbon Footprint Of Your iPod Or Wedding? Track It With Sourcemap

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:32:53 -0800
by BRANDON BUCK, Causecast Video Producer Launched in May of 2009, Sourcemap.org is an open-source tool that tracks the carbon footprint of all the resources used to make an product or hold an event. Using Google Maps and the Open-Source community (anyone can post or edit any submission and legally acquire it for their own use), Sourcemap aims to be "a platform for researching, optimizing and sharing the supply chains behind a number of everyday products." So if you wonder how far your IKEA bed really had to travel before you brought it home, here's where you can find out. Many businesses are trying to reflect their Corporate Social Responsibility by showing how their products have as little impact on the environment as possible. Sometimes just promising your customers that you're being honest isn't enough; embedding a Sourcemap on your website would be a great way to show customers that you care. Sourcemap launched this short video as a quick demonstration to the type of information you can share:
Getting Started with Open Supply Chains from Matthew Hockenberry on Vimeo.
For example, all of the raw materials required to manufacture an iPod have to travel 17,028km (mostly by ship), which emits 9.84kg (21.7lbs) of CO2. One user mapped the distance food ingredients had to travel for a wedding (953km traveled, .02kg of CO2): Anyone can create their own Sourcemap, and users can edit existing maps (did the Sourcemap for the Tesla Roadster miss a few items? Make the fix). Here's a video of some business owners using the program, including a Hotel Manager, Beer brewer and caterers: Do you advertise your business or party as being carbon-neutral or made from local materials? Here's your chance to be transparent and show exactly the impact your project has to the world. Let's hope more manufacturers take the initiative to label the impact of their products. photo credit gwire, flickr

UCSB Haiti Relief Benefit Hopes To Raise $50,000

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:54:19 -0800
by ERIN SWAN, Causecast Editor On Wednesday January 27, UCSB's Corwin Pavilion will hold a Haiti Relief Benefit, sponsored by the Environmental Affairs Board, The Human Rights Council, The Fund for Santa Barbara, and KCSB. The Associated Students Legislation Council has promised to match the first $25,000 donated and give to Direct Relief International and The Lambi Fund. The benefit, titled "Haiti Relief Benefit: Empowering an Equitable Environment and Future," will feature a presentation by Professor Nadege Clitandre (Haiti Soleil) from the Center for Black Studies on the best ways to help the country and people of Haiti. There will also be a panel discussion with Thomas Tighe, the Director of Direct Relief International and Das Williams, the Representative of the Santa Barbara City Council. Following the speech, the room will be opened for questions and answers. A five dollar minimum donation is required and food and drinks will be provided. Join this Facebook group to learn more or contact Nicolas Pascal: 626.227.5623.

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"I just have to believe that with every step that I take… It’s a step forward. I don’t think that I necessarily think of it in terms like ‘positive,’ or ‘negative,’ because you can be ‘positive’ and ‘negative,’ and still be boring, and still make bad music."
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“The only thing really holding you back, as an up-and-coming artist, or an artist that’s already established, is yourself, because it’s very easy for you to get your music out to everyone.”
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"And I think, more and more, we try to keep our fans and everyone aware of how we feel on our views, through our music as a beacon."
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