BRIGHT BULB Algal energy
Corn may be the most well-known biofuel crop, but many question whether it is the smartest. But algae? Algae can grow almost anywhere. And it’s not a critical food source for Americans. The University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute in Baltimore hosted a symposium on algal bioenergy recently to discuss the feasibility of an algae-based biofuel program. If they can create a way to harness the evil powers that cause algae blooms and kill fish for the good of mankind, all the power to them.
OUTRAGE: Juvenile injustice
WHO: Teenagers
WHAT: More than 25 percent of the nation’s teenagers consider violence acceptable — even justifiable for revenge or settling an argument. Many of them even said violence was OK for entertainment.
WHY IT’S A BAD IDEA: Those who believe that violence is a legitimate way to manage conflict are dangers to their classmates, family members, friends and co-workers. We’ve seen how Baltimore City teenagers have turned some public school classrooms from learning centers to crime scenes. For society to thrive we need to graduate students with self-control and conflict-management skills, two character traits that will make them successful adults.
WHERE TO VENT: Spend time with your teenagers — they need your guidance to learn how to navigate stressful social situations and to choose friends who share your values.
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QUOTE OF THE DAY
“If we don’t promote successful, smart, forward-thinking African-American candidates for any position, we’re lambasted and derided as racist and insensitive. When we do, we’re derided as pandering and the like.”
– Michael Steele, Maryland’s former lieutenant governor who is running to become chairman of the Republican National Committee, speaking on race and the Republican Party
