Please share these videos with others. This may be yesterday's mainstream news story, but it is far from over.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
BP's Latest Attempt
According to the US Coast Guard's Admiral Thad Allen, the cap to seal the 'leak' could be in place as early as today. How many times have we heard this before? Also, the relief well if very close to the depth it needs to be. Does anyone else have the sickening feeling that it won't be the final solution? What then?
I know that I have dwindled off on the amount of posts each day on Twitter, but news on the oil spill is getting more sparse. If you find any interesting articles or videos, please send me a link on Twitter or email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com.
If you live in the Gulf and have a personal story that you would like to share, I will post it here on the blog.
Also, if you are a blogger and would like to be on my Blog List, let me know. It doesn't have to be an oil spill related blog.
Any other comments, please sound off below.
Let's all cross our fingers as we near the 90 day mark that this well is on it's way to being sealed and we can focus on clean-up efforts.
My thoughts go out to everyone in the Gulf Coast!
I know that I have dwindled off on the amount of posts each day on Twitter, but news on the oil spill is getting more sparse. If you find any interesting articles or videos, please send me a link on Twitter or email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com.
If you live in the Gulf and have a personal story that you would like to share, I will post it here on the blog.
Also, if you are a blogger and would like to be on my Blog List, let me know. It doesn't have to be an oil spill related blog.
Any other comments, please sound off below.
Let's all cross our fingers as we near the 90 day mark that this well is on it's way to being sealed and we can focus on clean-up efforts.
My thoughts go out to everyone in the Gulf Coast!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Attention Fellow Bloggers:
If you have a blog and would like to have it added to my Blog List, email me: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com with your information and I will list it. It doesn't have to be oil spill related.
And if anyone would like to share any content on this site, email me, and we can discuss.
Thanks again for your support!
And if anyone would like to share any content on this site, email me, and we can discuss.
Thanks again for your support!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
I can't believe it (or can I?)!
2 months. 2 MONTHS! I cannot believe this disaster has been going on for over 2 months. As I type those words, I have a hard time wrapping my brain around it. Even though everyone has been (rightfully) doubting BP from very early on, I really didn't expect to be sitting here, the 4th of July right around the corner, and still no end in sight! Everyone has been criticizing BP's crackpot attempts at closing this well, and as bad as I loathe everything about that company, I have been hoping that one of these times something would actually work how they said it was going to work!
Now the oil is rapidly coming ashore in not only Louisiana, but all the way east to Pensacola, Florida. Still I see people filling up at BP stations! WHY???? And I am so sick of people telling me it hurts the 'mom & pop' station owners. First off, as a consumer, I can choose to spend my money wherever I damn well please, and second of all, the vast majority of these stations aren't small family run businesses.
Today, not only were there sad stories about more dead sea creatures, there was the news of the Fishing Boat Captain who took his own life.
By the time they finally figure out how to cap the oil well, it will only be a small victory. No one knows how widespread this disaster is and how long the effects will last. Unfortunately, only time will tell.
Like so many other significant news stories, people will fall complacent to it. Sometimes it is easier to do that, than to deal with reality.
How are you all doing? If there is anything I can do to help, or if you have any personal accounts you would like to share with all of us, email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com, and I will post to the blog.
Thanks again for your continued support.
S.
Now the oil is rapidly coming ashore in not only Louisiana, but all the way east to Pensacola, Florida. Still I see people filling up at BP stations! WHY???? And I am so sick of people telling me it hurts the 'mom & pop' station owners. First off, as a consumer, I can choose to spend my money wherever I damn well please, and second of all, the vast majority of these stations aren't small family run businesses.
Today, not only were there sad stories about more dead sea creatures, there was the news of the Fishing Boat Captain who took his own life.
By the time they finally figure out how to cap the oil well, it will only be a small victory. No one knows how widespread this disaster is and how long the effects will last. Unfortunately, only time will tell.
Like so many other significant news stories, people will fall complacent to it. Sometimes it is easier to do that, than to deal with reality.
How are you all doing? If there is anything I can do to help, or if you have any personal accounts you would like to share with all of us, email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com, and I will post to the blog.
Thanks again for your continued support.
S.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Oil Pollution Act Amendment
I know many of us are feeling helpless about this disaster, and I encourage contacting your Representatives and Senators about how you feel. Take note of how they are voting and responding to the BP disaster and let your friends and families know their responses. Remember this come November when elections roll around.
There was a vote in the House of Representatives on June 10, 2010 to amend the Oil Pollution Act. I received the following information from Congress.org
This legislation would allow the Obama administration to withdraw more money from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund in order to better respond to the Gulf of Mexico oil accident. The Senate approved the bill the previous day by voice vote, and the president is expected to sign it.
This legislation passed 410-0. 20 House Members did not show up to vote. My Congresswoman, Michele Bachmann was one of them. I am going to write her a letter and inquire as to why she didn't bother to show up. I am going to list the others as well, and I encourage you to contact them if they represent you and ask why they didn't show up and how would they have voted if they had shown up.
CALIFORNIA
Susan Davis (D) www.house.gov/susandavis
Anna Eshoo (D) eshoo.house.gov
Gary Miller (R) garymiller.house.gov
Henry Waxman (D) waxman.house.gov
FLORIDA
Vern Buchanan (R) buchanan.house.gov
Bill Posey (R) posey.house.gov
Adam Putnam (R) adamputnam.house.gov
GEORGIA
John Linder (R) linder.house.gov
ILLINOIS
Danny Davis (D) davis.house.gov
INDIANA
Steve Buyer (R) stevebuyer.house.gov
MASSACHUSETTS
William Delahunt (D) www.house.gov/delahunt
MICHIGAN
Peter Hoekstra (R) hoekstra.house.gov
Carolyn Kilpatrick (D) kilpatrick.house.gov
MINNESOTA
Michele Bachmann (R) bachmann.house.gov
NORTH CAROLINA
Patrick McHenry (R) mchenry.house.gov
PENNSYLVANIA
Bill Shuster (R) www.house.gov/shuster
SOUTH CAROLINA
J. Gresham Barrett (R) barrett.house.gov
Bob Inglis (R) inglis.house.gov
TEXAS
Ruben Hinojosa (D) hinojosa.house.gov
WISCONSIN
David Obey (D) obey.house.gov
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
BoycottBP
There was a vote in the House of Representatives on June 10, 2010 to amend the Oil Pollution Act. I received the following information from Congress.org
This legislation would allow the Obama administration to withdraw more money from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund in order to better respond to the Gulf of Mexico oil accident. The Senate approved the bill the previous day by voice vote, and the president is expected to sign it.
This legislation passed 410-0. 20 House Members did not show up to vote. My Congresswoman, Michele Bachmann was one of them. I am going to write her a letter and inquire as to why she didn't bother to show up. I am going to list the others as well, and I encourage you to contact them if they represent you and ask why they didn't show up and how would they have voted if they had shown up.
CALIFORNIA
Susan Davis (D) www.house.gov/susandavis
Anna Eshoo (D) eshoo.house.gov
Gary Miller (R) garymiller.house.gov
Henry Waxman (D) waxman.house.gov
FLORIDA
Vern Buchanan (R) buchanan.house.gov
Bill Posey (R) posey.house.gov
Adam Putnam (R) adamputnam.house.gov
GEORGIA
John Linder (R) linder.house.gov
ILLINOIS
Danny Davis (D) davis.house.gov
INDIANA
Steve Buyer (R) stevebuyer.house.gov
MASSACHUSETTS
William Delahunt (D) www.house.gov/delahunt
MICHIGAN
Peter Hoekstra (R) hoekstra.house.gov
Carolyn Kilpatrick (D) kilpatrick.house.gov
MINNESOTA
Michele Bachmann (R) bachmann.house.gov
NORTH CAROLINA
Patrick McHenry (R) mchenry.house.gov
PENNSYLVANIA
Bill Shuster (R) www.house.gov/shuster
SOUTH CAROLINA
J. Gresham Barrett (R) barrett.house.gov
Bob Inglis (R) inglis.house.gov
TEXAS
Ruben Hinojosa (D) hinojosa.house.gov
WISCONSIN
David Obey (D) obey.house.gov
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
BoycottBP
Monday, June 14, 2010
Response from Senator Franken
I recently wrote to my Senators regarding the BP oil spill. This is my response from Senator Al Franken:
Dear S.,
Thank you for contacting me about the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns with me on this critical issue.
As you know, on April 20, 2010, an explosion occurred on the Deep Water Horizon oil rig off the coast of Louisiana, leaving 11 workers dead. The rig caught fire and sank, spilling millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. This oil spill is a travesty -- it has devastated the environment, the economy, and the way of life for many communities along the Gulf Coast. I've been deeply disappointed by BP's neglect of safety and lack of progress in stopping the leak in the Gulf. This accident has also exposed the federal government's woefully inadequate oversight of the drilling industry.
First and foremost, every method at our disposal must be deployed to contain and clean-up the ongoing oil leak. Just as importantly, BP must be held responsible for all costs incurred as a result of the oil spill. By all accounts BP had no viable plan in place to deal with an accident of this magnitude. This is unacceptable, and taxpayers must not be left holding the bag. That's why I've cosponsored S. 3472, the Big Oil Bailout Prevention Unlimited Liability Act, which would eliminate the oil spill liability cap that currently limits economic damages paid by oil companies to $75 million. I am also an original cosponsor of S. 3462, which would grant subpoena power to President Obama's Oil Spill Commission that is investigating BP. This will ensure that the bipartisan commission has access to all the evidence it needs to fully investigate the causes of the spill and make meaningful recommendations on how to prevent similar disasters.
This spill is a call to action -- it is time to pass comprehensive energy and climate legislation to end our country's dependence on fossil fuels and transition to clean, renewable energy sources like wind, biofuels, and biomass from Minnesota. Please be assured that I will continue to closely monitor the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and will keep your thoughts in mind should legislation regarding offshore drilling come before the Senate for consideration.
Thank you again for contacting me, and I look forward to hearing from you in the future on this or any other matter of concern to you.
Sincerely,
Signature
Al Franken
United States Senator
-------------------------------------------------------------
Have any of you written to your Senators or Representatives? If so, what type of response did you receive?
Dear S.,
Thank you for contacting me about the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns with me on this critical issue.
As you know, on April 20, 2010, an explosion occurred on the Deep Water Horizon oil rig off the coast of Louisiana, leaving 11 workers dead. The rig caught fire and sank, spilling millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. This oil spill is a travesty -- it has devastated the environment, the economy, and the way of life for many communities along the Gulf Coast. I've been deeply disappointed by BP's neglect of safety and lack of progress in stopping the leak in the Gulf. This accident has also exposed the federal government's woefully inadequate oversight of the drilling industry.
First and foremost, every method at our disposal must be deployed to contain and clean-up the ongoing oil leak. Just as importantly, BP must be held responsible for all costs incurred as a result of the oil spill. By all accounts BP had no viable plan in place to deal with an accident of this magnitude. This is unacceptable, and taxpayers must not be left holding the bag. That's why I've cosponsored S. 3472, the Big Oil Bailout Prevention Unlimited Liability Act, which would eliminate the oil spill liability cap that currently limits economic damages paid by oil companies to $75 million. I am also an original cosponsor of S. 3462, which would grant subpoena power to President Obama's Oil Spill Commission that is investigating BP. This will ensure that the bipartisan commission has access to all the evidence it needs to fully investigate the causes of the spill and make meaningful recommendations on how to prevent similar disasters.
This spill is a call to action -- it is time to pass comprehensive energy and climate legislation to end our country's dependence on fossil fuels and transition to clean, renewable energy sources like wind, biofuels, and biomass from Minnesota. Please be assured that I will continue to closely monitor the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and will keep your thoughts in mind should legislation regarding offshore drilling come before the Senate for consideration.
Thank you again for contacting me, and I look forward to hearing from you in the future on this or any other matter of concern to you.
Sincerely,
Signature
Al Franken
United States Senator
-------------------------------------------------------------
Have any of you written to your Senators or Representatives? If so, what type of response did you receive?
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
BP Buying Ad Space All Over The Place
Yesterday it was reported that BP had bought up a bunch of ad space on Google and Yahoo. When you search for anything related to BP or the oil 'spill' a link to BP's Gulf Response PR page will be at the top of your screen.
I was just on my personal Facebook page and came across this gem:
All Facebook ads are posted with a little 'x' in the upper right hand corner. If you click on the 'x' it will bring up a question asking you why you don't like the ad. Your options are: Uninteresting, Misleading, Offensive, Repetitive, Other. I had a very difficult time choosing between Misleading and Offensive, but decided to go with Offensive. And since I did that, I will never have to see that ad again. A small, yet satisfying victory.
If only this advertising money was going towards saving wildlife and cleanup costs and the fishermen and everyone else affected by this disaster.
I was just on my personal Facebook page and came across this gem:
All Facebook ads are posted with a little 'x' in the upper right hand corner. If you click on the 'x' it will bring up a question asking you why you don't like the ad. Your options are: Uninteresting, Misleading, Offensive, Repetitive, Other. I had a very difficult time choosing between Misleading and Offensive, but decided to go with Offensive. And since I did that, I will never have to see that ad again. A small, yet satisfying victory.
If only this advertising money was going towards saving wildlife and cleanup costs and the fishermen and everyone else affected by this disaster.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Seize BP Protests This Week
Updated: 6/7/10 to include Seattle, Washington.
All the details can be found here at Seize BP
If you come across any more, let me know and I will add to this list.
Below is a partial list of newly announced actions. Details for additional events are still coming in and being compiled, so check our website regularly for updates.
CALIFORNIA
Claremont, California
Thursday, June 10, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Arco station
701 E. Foothill Blvd (Corner of Foothill and Claremont Blvd)
Contact: Claudia Strauss, straussri@aol.com
Costa Mesa, California
Wednesday, June 9 at 12 noon
Northeast Corner-Bristol and Sunflower, 3929 Bristol
Contact: guyparalegal@sbcglobal.net
Long Beach, California
Wednesday, June 9 at 4:30pm
Long Beach Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Way (Aquarium Way & Shoreline Drive)
The Aquarium, which claims its mission is "to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems" just took $1 million from oil criminals BP and unveiled a "BP Sea Otter Habitat." This sickinging double-standard shows the utter bankruptcy of the Aquarium's board of directors and attempts to provide cover for BP's crimes.
Contact: 213-251-1025 or la@seizebp.org.
San Francisco, California
Tuesday, June 8 at 5 p.m.
BP Offices
90 New Montgomery St. (near Mission St.)
Contact: 415-821-6545, sf@seizebp.org
IDAHO
Boise, Idaho
Thursday, June 10 at 3:30 pm
Downtown Boise (Corner of Capitol & Front St. in front the Grove Hotel - approx. 245 S. Capitol Blvd)
Rally to show support of seizing BP Assets to aid the Gulf Coast Oil Spill clean up efforts.
Contact: boiseseizebp@gmail.com - www.myspace.com/boiseseizebp - www.facebook.com/boiseseizebp - www.twitter.com/boiseseizebp
ILLINOIS
Batavia, Illinois
Thursday, June 10, 5 p.m.
Bill Fosters headquarters, 100 block of River St.
Rally in front of Bill Foster's offices to demand the government holds BP accountable, and makes them pay for the damage and devistation they have caused.
Contact: salukiseth@hotmail.com
MICHIGAN
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Tuesday, June 8 at 5:30 p.m.
Federal Building, 200 E. Liberty
Bring signs.
Contact: Catherine Wilkerson at catwilk@sbcglobal.net
Flint, Michigan
Monday, June 7, 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.
BP station on corner of Dort hwy and Court Street
Contact: randallwscott3rd@hotmail.com
Muskegon, Michigan
Thursday, June 10, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
BP Station, 3003 Whitehall Road (between Whitehall and North Muskegon, Michigan)
Please feel free to join in at the location.
St. Joseph, Michigan
Wednesday, June 9 at 5 p.m.
BP gast station on the corner of Napier (2501 Niles Ave.)
Contact: jbounds1029@gmail.com
NEW YORK
Syracuse, New York
Friday, June 11 at 5:30 p.m.
Federal Building, 100 S. Clinton St
Protest to demand the federal government seize BP's assets to provide immediate relief to the workers, communities, and environment that have been devastated as a result of BP's criminal negligence.
Contact: Syracuse@SeizeBP.org
OHIO
Columbus, Ohio
Tuesday, June 8 at 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
State House West Lawn
Oil spill vigil. No "moments of silence" are planned. Bring your handheld signs and banners. Signs with sticks or poles are not permitted--the state troopers will attempt to disperse groups with sticks, etc. even when they are just holding up a sign.
Contact: jkress@columbus.rr.com or Emily at 614-519-9491.
OREGON
Roseburg, Oregon
Tuesday, June 8, 8 am until nightfall
2532 NE Stephens Street (on the sidewalk)
We will be walking in between kid cents and umpqua video.
Contact: Wendy Burns at oregonheads@gmail.com or look for us that day and join us live.
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Wednesday, June 9 at 5 p.m.
Across from City Hall (15th and Market)
Visibility action
Contact: philly@seizebp.org
VIRGINIA
Williamsburg, Virginia
Thursday, June 10 at 3 p.m.
BP gas station, 1305 Richmond Road.
Demand the seizure of BP's assets to provide comprehensive compensation and relief for all affected people and for cleaning up the environment.
Contact: Dave Koenig at peacesurgeall@gmail.com
WASHINGTON
Seattle, Washington
Tuesday, June 8th, 7:00 PM
Cal Anderson Park, 1635 11th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
More info here: http://goo.gl/fb/QWlsQ
All the details can be found here at Seize BP
If you come across any more, let me know and I will add to this list.
Below is a partial list of newly announced actions. Details for additional events are still coming in and being compiled, so check our website regularly for updates.
CALIFORNIA
Claremont, California
Thursday, June 10, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Arco station
701 E. Foothill Blvd (Corner of Foothill and Claremont Blvd)
Contact: Claudia Strauss, straussri@aol.com
Costa Mesa, California
Wednesday, June 9 at 12 noon
Northeast Corner-Bristol and Sunflower, 3929 Bristol
Contact: guyparalegal@sbcglobal.net
Long Beach, California
Wednesday, June 9 at 4:30pm
Long Beach Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Way (Aquarium Way & Shoreline Drive)
The Aquarium, which claims its mission is "to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems" just took $1 million from oil criminals BP and unveiled a "BP Sea Otter Habitat." This sickinging double-standard shows the utter bankruptcy of the Aquarium's board of directors and attempts to provide cover for BP's crimes.
Contact: 213-251-1025 or la@seizebp.org.
San Francisco, California
Tuesday, June 8 at 5 p.m.
BP Offices
90 New Montgomery St. (near Mission St.)
Contact: 415-821-6545, sf@seizebp.org
IDAHO
Boise, Idaho
Thursday, June 10 at 3:30 pm
Downtown Boise (Corner of Capitol & Front St. in front the Grove Hotel - approx. 245 S. Capitol Blvd)
Rally to show support of seizing BP Assets to aid the Gulf Coast Oil Spill clean up efforts.
Contact: boiseseizebp@gmail.com - www.myspace.com/boiseseizebp - www.facebook.com/boiseseizebp - www.twitter.com/boiseseizebp
ILLINOIS
Batavia, Illinois
Thursday, June 10, 5 p.m.
Bill Fosters headquarters, 100 block of River St.
Rally in front of Bill Foster's offices to demand the government holds BP accountable, and makes them pay for the damage and devistation they have caused.
Contact: salukiseth@hotmail.com
MICHIGAN
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Tuesday, June 8 at 5:30 p.m.
Federal Building, 200 E. Liberty
Bring signs.
Contact: Catherine Wilkerson at catwilk@sbcglobal.net
Flint, Michigan
Monday, June 7, 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.
BP station on corner of Dort hwy and Court Street
Contact: randallwscott3rd@hotmail.com
Muskegon, Michigan
Thursday, June 10, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
BP Station, 3003 Whitehall Road (between Whitehall and North Muskegon, Michigan)
Please feel free to join in at the location.
St. Joseph, Michigan
Wednesday, June 9 at 5 p.m.
BP gast station on the corner of Napier (2501 Niles Ave.)
Contact: jbounds1029@gmail.com
NEW YORK
Syracuse, New York
Friday, June 11 at 5:30 p.m.
Federal Building, 100 S. Clinton St
Protest to demand the federal government seize BP's assets to provide immediate relief to the workers, communities, and environment that have been devastated as a result of BP's criminal negligence.
Contact: Syracuse@SeizeBP.org
OHIO
Columbus, Ohio
Tuesday, June 8 at 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
State House West Lawn
Oil spill vigil. No "moments of silence" are planned. Bring your handheld signs and banners. Signs with sticks or poles are not permitted--the state troopers will attempt to disperse groups with sticks, etc. even when they are just holding up a sign.
Contact: jkress@columbus.rr.com or Emily at 614-519-9491.
OREGON
Roseburg, Oregon
Tuesday, June 8, 8 am until nightfall
2532 NE Stephens Street (on the sidewalk)
We will be walking in between kid cents and umpqua video.
Contact: Wendy Burns at oregonheads@gmail.com or look for us that day and join us live.
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Wednesday, June 9 at 5 p.m.
Across from City Hall (15th and Market)
Visibility action
Contact: philly@seizebp.org
VIRGINIA
Williamsburg, Virginia
Thursday, June 10 at 3 p.m.
BP gas station, 1305 Richmond Road.
Demand the seizure of BP's assets to provide comprehensive compensation and relief for all affected people and for cleaning up the environment.
Contact: Dave Koenig at peacesurgeall@gmail.com
WASHINGTON
Seattle, Washington
Tuesday, June 8th, 7:00 PM
Cal Anderson Park, 1635 11th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
More info here: http://goo.gl/fb/QWlsQ
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
So disheartening....
43 days....and the solution is nowhere in sight. BP, the Government, and the News Media keep talking about how technologically advanced BP is with their drilling operations. What good does that do if you can't fix what you started? To me, it is the equivalent of needing heart surgery and you go to one of the world's best cardiologists. The doctor performs open heart surgery on you with skilled perfection, but ultimately, they haven't figured out how to sew you back up afterward. It doesn't do a lot of good if you can't complete the task.
I'm also seeing increasing reports on the news stating that boycotting BP stores will only hurt the local owners. Whereas I can understand that to a point, it also makes me mad. There should be more outcry about the fishing and tourism industries losing their livelihoods. People are mad and if BP wasn't so busy contradicting themselves, people may have more sympathy. Unfortunately, the gas stations are what have the companies logos on them, making them the easiest target. I have become more aware of my usage of petroleum, and have been trying to cut down my consumption and will continue to pass information along to others.
I didn't start this Boycott BP twitter account until 11 days after the explosion on Deepwater Horizon. From the beginning, BP was busy telling the media that they had it under control. Not knowing what I know now, I chose to believe them. Had they taken responsibility from the get-go, I probably wouldn't be sitting here with this blog and Twitter page.
Please continue to send me feedback of anything you would like to see posted here, and also send along any protest info you may have so I can post it here and on Twitter. As the Twitter page grows, it is getting more difficult to sift through the @replies. Please feel free to send any info or feedback to: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com.
Thanks again for all your support!
Take care.
I'm also seeing increasing reports on the news stating that boycotting BP stores will only hurt the local owners. Whereas I can understand that to a point, it also makes me mad. There should be more outcry about the fishing and tourism industries losing their livelihoods. People are mad and if BP wasn't so busy contradicting themselves, people may have more sympathy. Unfortunately, the gas stations are what have the companies logos on them, making them the easiest target. I have become more aware of my usage of petroleum, and have been trying to cut down my consumption and will continue to pass information along to others.
I didn't start this Boycott BP twitter account until 11 days after the explosion on Deepwater Horizon. From the beginning, BP was busy telling the media that they had it under control. Not knowing what I know now, I chose to believe them. Had they taken responsibility from the get-go, I probably wouldn't be sitting here with this blog and Twitter page.
Please continue to send me feedback of anything you would like to see posted here, and also send along any protest info you may have so I can post it here and on Twitter. As the Twitter page grows, it is getting more difficult to sift through the @replies. Please feel free to send any info or feedback to: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com.
Thanks again for all your support!
Take care.
Friday, May 28, 2010
BP Protest info: Whiting, IN - May 31
Peaceful demonstration/protest at the BP Refinery in Whiting, Indiana (about 20 minutes south of downtown Chicago) on Monday, May 31st beginning at 8am.
There is a documentary film maker coming in to join the protest and to do some filming. He is making a documentary on the effects the BP refinery has had on the Great Lakes ecosystem. CNN and local Channel 9 news have been informed and we're hoping we'll see their news cameras there as well.
There is a documentary film maker coming in to join the protest and to do some filming. He is making a documentary on the effects the BP refinery has had on the Great Lakes ecosystem. CNN and local Channel 9 news have been informed and we're hoping we'll see their news cameras there as well.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
How can I stop being so dependent on oil?
Don't worry, I'm not going to suggest that you dress only in hemp and ride a bike or hitchhike everywhere.
It's virtually impossible for most of us to go oil free. However, if all of us take a few steps towards ending our dependence on petroleum based products, a little can go a long way.
Here are the ingredients to keep an eye out for, and where you can find them:
Ingredients to avoid:
Petroleum
Petrolatum
Mineral Oil
Fragrance
PVP/VA Copolymer
Paraffin oil
Liquid paraffin
White petrolatum
Paraffin wax
Di-ethyl phthalate (DEP)
Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP)
Benzyl butyl phthalate
Polyurethane
Things they are in (just about everything):
Skin creams—hand lotions, facial products, etc.
Hair spray
Candles
Paint
Deodorant
Antihistamines
Cortisone
Soft contact lenses
Detergents
Shampoo
Shaving cream
Bandages
Diapers
Perfume
Insect repellants
Food wrap
Toothbrushes, toothpaste
Crayons
Purses
Shoes
Rubber boots
Rubber bands
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, flooring, shower curtains, and countless other household products
Kinda scary to think we're putting that stuff on our skin and brushing our teeth with it, isn't it?
As some of your products are running low and it's time to re-stock, take a look at the ingredients. If you see one of the ingredients listed above, spend some time researching to see what healthier, more environmentally friendly products are out there.
I did some searching and will share them with you here.
Method Products - These can be found at Target.
I absolutely love these cleaning products, and they are reasonably priced at around $4 a bottle for the multi-surface cleaner. They work great and to be able to smell French Lavender while cleaning your kitchen is way better than having your eyes and throat burn from inhaling some of those cleaners that are out there.
Method also makes a bunch of different scented handsoaps, even holiday/season themed scents throughout the year.
Physicians Formula Organic Makeup - organic make up doesn't have to cost a fortune!
This is a full line of makeup (from lip gloss to mascara to makeup remover and moisturizer) found at drugstores and department stores and won't cost you your next pay check. Not only is it organic, they don't do any testing on animals.
Trader Joe's - They have a great selection of organic foods, as well as many affordable organic toiletries.
Don't feel like brushing your teeth with petroleum anymore? You'll find organic toothpaste here, as well as shampoo and soap.
Some other steps you can take -- try to stop using disposable water bottles. Buy a reusable container and fill it at home with a Brita filtered water pitcher. If you do have a disposable bottle, don't just pitch it in the nearest garbage can when finished. Try to hold onto it until you are able to recycle it.
If possible, consolidate your errands, it will save you money on gas, and help cut down on your usage. When possible, try to carpool.
These are just a few suggestions, go ahead and add some of the ways you are making changes in the comment section.
Also, here are some websites that have a lot of helpful information:
Join the Oil Detox Challenge
Treehugger - Buy Green Guides
The Go Green Blog
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
It's virtually impossible for most of us to go oil free. However, if all of us take a few steps towards ending our dependence on petroleum based products, a little can go a long way.
Here are the ingredients to keep an eye out for, and where you can find them:
Ingredients to avoid:
Petroleum
Petrolatum
Mineral Oil
Fragrance
PVP/VA Copolymer
Paraffin oil
Liquid paraffin
White petrolatum
Paraffin wax
Di-ethyl phthalate (DEP)
Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP)
Benzyl butyl phthalate
Polyurethane
Things they are in (just about everything):
Skin creams—hand lotions, facial products, etc.
Hair spray
Candles
Paint
Deodorant
Antihistamines
Cortisone
Soft contact lenses
Detergents
Shampoo
Shaving cream
Bandages
Diapers
Perfume
Insect repellants
Food wrap
Toothbrushes, toothpaste
Crayons
Purses
Shoes
Rubber boots
Rubber bands
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, flooring, shower curtains, and countless other household products
Kinda scary to think we're putting that stuff on our skin and brushing our teeth with it, isn't it?
As some of your products are running low and it's time to re-stock, take a look at the ingredients. If you see one of the ingredients listed above, spend some time researching to see what healthier, more environmentally friendly products are out there.
I did some searching and will share them with you here.
Method Products - These can be found at Target.
I absolutely love these cleaning products, and they are reasonably priced at around $4 a bottle for the multi-surface cleaner. They work great and to be able to smell French Lavender while cleaning your kitchen is way better than having your eyes and throat burn from inhaling some of those cleaners that are out there.
Method also makes a bunch of different scented handsoaps, even holiday/season themed scents throughout the year.
Physicians Formula Organic Makeup - organic make up doesn't have to cost a fortune!
This is a full line of makeup (from lip gloss to mascara to makeup remover and moisturizer) found at drugstores and department stores and won't cost you your next pay check. Not only is it organic, they don't do any testing on animals.
Trader Joe's - They have a great selection of organic foods, as well as many affordable organic toiletries.
Don't feel like brushing your teeth with petroleum anymore? You'll find organic toothpaste here, as well as shampoo and soap.
Some other steps you can take -- try to stop using disposable water bottles. Buy a reusable container and fill it at home with a Brita filtered water pitcher. If you do have a disposable bottle, don't just pitch it in the nearest garbage can when finished. Try to hold onto it until you are able to recycle it.
If possible, consolidate your errands, it will save you money on gas, and help cut down on your usage. When possible, try to carpool.
These are just a few suggestions, go ahead and add some of the ways you are making changes in the comment section.
Also, here are some websites that have a lot of helpful information:
Join the Oil Detox Challenge
Treehugger - Buy Green Guides
The Go Green Blog
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
BP Protest Info: New Orleans - May 30
New Orleans BP Protest Sunday, May 30
"This event is being put together by a handful pissed-off New Orleanians… it is not a political action committee, community group or activist organization although we absolutely WELCOME and INVITE anyone and everyone to join us!
PLEASE spread the word… come and bring as many as you can!"
WHEN: 1pm at Jackson Square
More info: http://bit.ly/ciQaW6
Please let me know of any other protests you are aware of and I will post here and on Twitter.
"This event is being put together by a handful pissed-off New Orleanians… it is not a political action committee, community group or activist organization although we absolutely WELCOME and INVITE anyone and everyone to join us!
PLEASE spread the word… come and bring as many as you can!"
WHEN: 1pm at Jackson Square
More info: http://bit.ly/ciQaW6
Please let me know of any other protests you are aware of and I will post here and on Twitter.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
BP Protest info: Houston 5/24 San Francisco 5/25
Here is some protest information that was brought to my attention by @leahburdick
Houston BP Protest TOMORROW!!
Exposes the Naked Truth Behind “Drill Baby Drill”WHERE: BP Headquarters 501 Westlake Park Blvd., Houston
WHEN: May 24, 2010 at 11:30am
More info: http://tinyurl.com/2b5hlmq
---------------------------------------------------------------
SAN FRANCISCO PROTEST ALERT!!
Obama will be in SF on Tues, 5/25 @ 4PM at Initiated by the ANSWER Coalition. Call 415-821-6545 for more info. SPREAD THE WORD.Tuesday, May 25, 4pm Fairmont Hotel, 950 Mason St. (between Sacramento and California Sts.) San Francisco
More info: http://tinyurl.com/39v234k
---------------------------------------------------------------
Please let me know if you hear of any protests in your area. You can leave a comment here on the blog, contact me at BoycottBP or email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com
Thanks again for the info Leah!
Houston BP Protest TOMORROW!!
Exposes the Naked Truth Behind “Drill Baby Drill”WHERE: BP Headquarters 501 Westlake Park Blvd., Houston
WHEN: May 24, 2010 at 11:30am
More info: http://tinyurl.com/2b5hlmq
---------------------------------------------------------------
SAN FRANCISCO PROTEST ALERT!!
Obama will be in SF on Tues, 5/25 @ 4PM at Initiated by the ANSWER Coalition. Call 415-821-6545 for more info. SPREAD THE WORD.Tuesday, May 25, 4pm Fairmont Hotel, 950 Mason St. (between Sacramento and California Sts.) San Francisco
More info: http://tinyurl.com/39v234k
---------------------------------------------------------------
Please let me know if you hear of any protests in your area. You can leave a comment here on the blog, contact me at BoycottBP or email me at: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com
Thanks again for the info Leah!
No end in sight ...
Here we are, over a month after the Deepwater Horizon explosion, and oil is still spewing into the Gulf at alarming rates. Just how alarming? - No one knows (or do they?). As I have been researching all of this, looking for links to post on Twitter, I am becoming increasingly frustrated, angered and saddened.
I've been trying to keep the Twitter account free of personal opinions and just make the news easy for you to find and share with others.
I started this blog, not quite sure where I was going with it. If there is anything you would like to see posted here, please feel free to let me know.
I'd be interested to hear how you are feeling about this oil "spill" as time goes by. Do you think the media is doing a good job of covering this story? Have you gotten any flack for wanting to Boycott BP? What do you think about government response? etc...
Please feel free to sound off in the comments...
Thanks again for Retweeting the posts on Twitter.
I've been trying to keep the Twitter account free of personal opinions and just make the news easy for you to find and share with others.
I started this blog, not quite sure where I was going with it. If there is anything you would like to see posted here, please feel free to let me know.
I'd be interested to hear how you are feeling about this oil "spill" as time goes by. Do you think the media is doing a good job of covering this story? Have you gotten any flack for wanting to Boycott BP? What do you think about government response? etc...
Please feel free to sound off in the comments...
Thanks again for Retweeting the posts on Twitter.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Boycott These BP Brands!
Here is a posting to pass around to others to raise awareness on which brands are operated by the BP brand.
BP brands in the United States
BP brands around the world
BP Station Locator
Castrol Motor Oil & Lubricants
Grocery Stores that offer BP Fuelperks Gas Rebates
If you regularly frequent these gas stations or grocery stores, be sure to stop in, call or write an email and let them know why you will no longer be a patron at these businesses.
Please share any feedback in the comments section and if you are on Twitter, please follow Boycott BP
Thank you
Thursday, May 20, 2010
FINALLY. Live feed of oil "spill"..
Exactly 1 month since the initial explosion on the Deepwater Horizon, BP has FINALLY made a live feed of the oil "spill" available for everyone to view. Hours before this feed became available to the public, BP claimed they underestimated the size of the leak.
Here is the live feed that is available -- http://globalwarming.house.gov/spillcam
If traffic at that site is too heavy, try this feed:
CNN Oil Feed
Please help spread the word to Boycott BP!
Here is the live feed that is available -- http://globalwarming.house.gov/spillcam
If traffic at that site is too heavy, try this feed:
CNN Oil Feed
Please help spread the word to Boycott BP!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Have you noticed a decline in business at local BP stations?
It is a busy weekend here in Minnesota - the fishing opener. I went to a friend's house that is about 50 miles Northwest of Minneapolis and the roads were packed with people heading up North for the weekend. I was keeping an eye on the gas stations along the way, and noticed that the Holiday, Super America & Shell stations were extremely busy. Whereas the BP stations I drove past were empty or only had 1 car filling up. It may have just been a coincidence, but I would like to believe that people are making a decision not to patronize these stores.
Have you noticed any difference in BP/Amoco/AMPM/Arco stations in your area?
(Reminder: The links on the right hand column will let you see the products under the BP brand name and nearby locations.)
Please comment and let us know where you are and if you've seen a difference.
Thanks!
Have you noticed any difference in BP/Amoco/AMPM/Arco stations in your area?
(Reminder: The links on the right hand column will let you see the products under the BP brand name and nearby locations.)
Please comment and let us know where you are and if you've seen a difference.
Thanks!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Crude Awakening Activists Hold National “Day of Action, Night of Mourning”
From: http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2010/05/14-0
Nationwide - May 14 - Activists in cities and towns around the country express outrage, solidarity and grief about the catastrophic Gulf Oil spill during a “Day of Action, Night of Mourning” on Friday, May 14. Coastal ecosystems and species, and ocean-based economies face the grim reality of unfolding disastrous impacts as the ruptured deep sea well in the Gulf of Mexico spews oil at an every-increasing rate. Initiated by Rising Tide North America, the Call To Action is endorsed by Earth First!, BiofuelWatch, Sierra Club, Backbone Campaign, Institute for Social Ecology, the Yes Men and other organizations. Actions are planned in Boston, Rancho Mirage, Calif.; Berkeley, Calif.; Savanna, Georgia; the Gulf Coast region, and other areas, as reports pour in. The protest activities across the country are targeting British Petroleum (BP) and the federal government with these demands:
* An immediate ban on all offshore drilling
* A rapid and just transition away from fossil fuels
* All recovery costs paid by BP, Halliburton, Transocean and other implicated companies.
* The federal government must remove any caps on liability for oil companies.
* BP provides full compensation for impacted communities and small businesses.
* BP provides full funding for long-term ecosystem restoration for impacted areas.
Estimates are now that up to 210,000 gallons of oil per day are pouring out from BP’s “oil volcano” into the ocean. But many believe the real figures could ultimately be much higher. The spill, getting worse by the day as attempts to cap the well fail, is threatening to be the worst spill in memory, and eclipse the Exxon Valdez spill over 20 years ago. It was revealed in recent Congressional hearings that the well failed a pressure test that could have predicted the explosion disaster hours before the explosion, but the company failed to suspend the operation.
“This spill was an accident waiting to happen,” said Kim Marks, an activist with Rising Tide. “Pursuing only profit with reckless disregard for the ecosystem and the workers, BP, Halliburton and Transocean have been racking up violations, operating without sufficient environmental review, and ignored warning signs of such a disaster, with the result being one of the most difficult ecological disasters to fix in that wake. If ever there were a crude wake-up call for a halt to all offshore drilling, this is it. We need a permanent ban, and we need it now.”
A representative from Public Citizen said BP has one of the worst safety records of any oil company operating in America. Tyson Slocum of Public Citizen said in media reports that “In just the last few years, BP has paid $485 million in fines and settlements to the US government for environmental crimes, willful neglect of worker safety rules, and penalties for manipulating energy markets.”
In October 2009, BP paid the largest fine in OSHA history – $87.43 million – for willful negligence that led to the deaths of 15 workers in a March 2005 refinery explosion in Texas. And just last month, BP paid $3 million fine to OSHA for 42 willful safety violations at one of its refineries in Ohio. In March 2006, BPs neglect of one of its major oil pipelines in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska led to an oil leak that resulted in BP paying $20 million to settle allegations it violated the clean water act. BP also was forced to pay $303 million to settle allegations it manipulated the US propane market, was fined $18 million for market manipulation during the California energy crisis.
Longtime Earth First! activist Karen Pickett said, “When a company like BP is earning $6 billion or more in profits every three months, issuing a fine of $20 million here, $50 million here, or finding of criminal negligence, as the Dept. of Justice has done on two occasions in the last two years, but without serious repercussions --that is all just the cost of doing business for BP. It’s time for permanent sanctions against corporate criminal offenders like BP. We should be denying them access to lucrative leases that our government sells to these companies.
“I am in a state of shock,” said Rachel Smolker, a climate activist with a Ph.D. in ecology and zoology. “I spent 20 years studying dolphins – the ocean and perhaps the planet’s most intelligent and playful species. The thought of what this spill will mean for them is hard to bear. Seven of the 10 species of the sea turtles, mostly threatened and endangered, live in the Gulf. They are central to the Native American “turtle island” creation myth. Having survived for 150 million years, outliving the dinosaurs, BP may now spell their demise. It’s absolutely sickening.”
Info and images of actions as they take place on 5-14 are at http://www.actagainstoil.com/
###
Rising Tide is a grassroots network of groups and individuals who take direct action to confront the roots causes of climate change and promote local, community-based solutions to the climate crisis. Rising Tide was formed in the Netherlands in 2000 to bring a more radical voice to the COP6 (UN Conference of the Parties) climate talks that attempted (unsuccessfully, largely due to the efforts of the US delegation) to salvage what of substance was left of the Kyoto Protocol. Employing popular education and direct action to address the root causes of climate change with a focus on climate justice, Rising Tide now spans three continents.
Thanks to MirelaMonte for bringing this to my attention.
Nationwide - May 14 - Activists in cities and towns around the country express outrage, solidarity and grief about the catastrophic Gulf Oil spill during a “Day of Action, Night of Mourning” on Friday, May 14. Coastal ecosystems and species, and ocean-based economies face the grim reality of unfolding disastrous impacts as the ruptured deep sea well in the Gulf of Mexico spews oil at an every-increasing rate. Initiated by Rising Tide North America, the Call To Action is endorsed by Earth First!, BiofuelWatch, Sierra Club, Backbone Campaign, Institute for Social Ecology, the Yes Men and other organizations. Actions are planned in Boston, Rancho Mirage, Calif.; Berkeley, Calif.; Savanna, Georgia; the Gulf Coast region, and other areas, as reports pour in. The protest activities across the country are targeting British Petroleum (BP) and the federal government with these demands:
* An immediate ban on all offshore drilling
* A rapid and just transition away from fossil fuels
* All recovery costs paid by BP, Halliburton, Transocean and other implicated companies.
* The federal government must remove any caps on liability for oil companies.
* BP provides full compensation for impacted communities and small businesses.
* BP provides full funding for long-term ecosystem restoration for impacted areas.
Estimates are now that up to 210,000 gallons of oil per day are pouring out from BP’s “oil volcano” into the ocean. But many believe the real figures could ultimately be much higher. The spill, getting worse by the day as attempts to cap the well fail, is threatening to be the worst spill in memory, and eclipse the Exxon Valdez spill over 20 years ago. It was revealed in recent Congressional hearings that the well failed a pressure test that could have predicted the explosion disaster hours before the explosion, but the company failed to suspend the operation.
“This spill was an accident waiting to happen,” said Kim Marks, an activist with Rising Tide. “Pursuing only profit with reckless disregard for the ecosystem and the workers, BP, Halliburton and Transocean have been racking up violations, operating without sufficient environmental review, and ignored warning signs of such a disaster, with the result being one of the most difficult ecological disasters to fix in that wake. If ever there were a crude wake-up call for a halt to all offshore drilling, this is it. We need a permanent ban, and we need it now.”
A representative from Public Citizen said BP has one of the worst safety records of any oil company operating in America. Tyson Slocum of Public Citizen said in media reports that “In just the last few years, BP has paid $485 million in fines and settlements to the US government for environmental crimes, willful neglect of worker safety rules, and penalties for manipulating energy markets.”
In October 2009, BP paid the largest fine in OSHA history – $87.43 million – for willful negligence that led to the deaths of 15 workers in a March 2005 refinery explosion in Texas. And just last month, BP paid $3 million fine to OSHA for 42 willful safety violations at one of its refineries in Ohio. In March 2006, BPs neglect of one of its major oil pipelines in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska led to an oil leak that resulted in BP paying $20 million to settle allegations it violated the clean water act. BP also was forced to pay $303 million to settle allegations it manipulated the US propane market, was fined $18 million for market manipulation during the California energy crisis.
Longtime Earth First! activist Karen Pickett said, “When a company like BP is earning $6 billion or more in profits every three months, issuing a fine of $20 million here, $50 million here, or finding of criminal negligence, as the Dept. of Justice has done on two occasions in the last two years, but without serious repercussions --that is all just the cost of doing business for BP. It’s time for permanent sanctions against corporate criminal offenders like BP. We should be denying them access to lucrative leases that our government sells to these companies.
“I am in a state of shock,” said Rachel Smolker, a climate activist with a Ph.D. in ecology and zoology. “I spent 20 years studying dolphins – the ocean and perhaps the planet’s most intelligent and playful species. The thought of what this spill will mean for them is hard to bear. Seven of the 10 species of the sea turtles, mostly threatened and endangered, live in the Gulf. They are central to the Native American “turtle island” creation myth. Having survived for 150 million years, outliving the dinosaurs, BP may now spell their demise. It’s absolutely sickening.”
Info and images of actions as they take place on 5-14 are at http://www.actagainstoil.com/
###
Rising Tide is a grassroots network of groups and individuals who take direct action to confront the roots causes of climate change and promote local, community-based solutions to the climate crisis. Rising Tide was formed in the Netherlands in 2000 to bring a more radical voice to the COP6 (UN Conference of the Parties) climate talks that attempted (unsuccessfully, largely due to the efforts of the US delegation) to salvage what of substance was left of the Kyoto Protocol. Employing popular education and direct action to address the root causes of climate change with a focus on climate justice, Rising Tide now spans three continents.
Thanks to MirelaMonte for bringing this to my attention.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
If we Boycott BP, How will they pay for the clean up costs?
A question I have been getting asked a lot is: If we boycott BP, how will they afford to clean up their mess in the Gulf of Mexico?
Here is a great article that shows just how much money they make: http://tinyurl.com/24yd6d9
Here is a great article that shows just how much money they make: http://tinyurl.com/24yd6d9
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to come to this website and helping with the effort to Boycott BP! If you aren't already, please follow us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/BoycottBP
I will be posting information regarding boycotts of BP on this page. If you know of any happening in your area, please send me the information via Twitter or send an email to: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com
If there is any specific information that you are seeking or would like to see posted here regarding BP and/or the oil spill, please contact me and I will do my best to get that posted.
I will be posting information regarding boycotts of BP on this page. If you know of any happening in your area, please send me the information via Twitter or send an email to: BoycottBP2010@gmail.com
If there is any specific information that you are seeking or would like to see posted here regarding BP and/or the oil spill, please contact me and I will do my best to get that posted.
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