Bike There?

With all the love that Google has been given on this blog, it only seems fair to ask for something in return other than quality features for free (which are of course paid for by advertising contingent upon site visits, thus the whole former part irons out itself.)

Google Map has many unique and helpful features, not the least of which being the ability to quickly and easily change routes using a drag and drop technique. It has come to the mind of some civic minded folk that a new feature is necessary. Bike there. These individuals have found it reasonable to petition google to add this feature over time to its mapping software. They also request two methods: direct route, and safe route. The author for one thinks you should go check it out and sign the petition.

Who knew one could petition private companies in this manner? Oh well, here's hoping it's successful so more people can enjoy bike rides without the fear of being crushed by large hunks of metal. With that in mind, people can start showing up places looking like our friend below.

Going green with your H20 (Public Service Announcement)

It has come to the attention of the author that many people (the author chief among the offenders) use far too many disposable containers to hold food and beverage.

Sure it's easy to just grab a plastic cup or plate and throw it away, but it would be a whole lot better to ease up on filling landfills and the like and lessen our need for mass quantities of plastic. It's also cheaper.

There are other alleged repercussions involving the ways in which we live affecting things like cancer in humans. Some of these questions are raised by Michael Sleeth of A Rocha

He also gave a good talk about Conservationism, simplicity, and a bit about the whole cancer thing. You can find it here (you'll want July 8th, "Serve God Save the Planet"). The sermons around this one are also intriguing.

The picture above illustrates some of the author's efforts to change the way he effects the world around him. Small yes (well the liter mug isn't small, but the effort is). Is it a little odd to use a beer glass for water in the workplace? Maybe, but it's also a great way to start a good conversation about taking care of what we've been given. Appreciating our blessings without exploiting them.