Texas, USA expecting continued dry spell.
According to the US Drought Monitor map, 58 percent of the state experienced drought in 2008, and meteorologists are forecasting dry conditions to worsen. In 2008, the cities of San Antonio and Austin had their driest years on record since the 1950s. Wheat plantings have been delayed as farmers are waiting for precipitation, and burn bans already in effect for 95 of the state’s 254 counties could be extended as fire concerns increase. US scientists and Texas state officials, our appreciation for informing the public of this alarming trend. We pray for the blessing of gentle rain and that extreme conditions as these lessen through our benevolent actions toward all inhabitants on Earth.


Animals, Humans Live Side-by-Side in Harmony
US community constructed around wildlife. Developers of Harmony, Florida, located south of Walt Disney World in the United States, had sought to demonstrate that a community could be built that protected wildlife while remaining successful as a business. Seventy percent of Harmony’s 11,000 acres are thus wetlands and lakes that will never be developed, where residents employ noiseless, solar-powered boats to observe nature without disturbing the animals and street lights are cast downwards to avoid disrupting migrating birds. Bravo Harmony developers and residents for your inspiring example of our ability to co-exist in peace and respect for all life.

Bamboo Bikes, Ghana's Green Transport
A new kind of bike arrives in Ghana. A lightweight and sturdy bicycle crafted from the abundant local bamboo is being introduced to farmers and other rural residents to help improve their transportation and standard of living. Initiated by American engineer David Peckham, the Ghana Abompe Bamboo Bike Project has provided training to locals on how to create the bikes using just bamboo, glue, fiber, and recycled bike parts - all without the need for electric machine tools. One model, called the Cargo Bike, has been designed specially to carry heavy loads for farmers. Kudos David Peckham and the Ghana Abompe Bamboo Bike Project for this green and innovative transportation! We look forward to more eco-friendly practices as these to foster flourishing lives while helping to preserve our planet.