Mike Marxen

I was inspired by Lisa Brenscale's posts today because they were thought provoking regarding her donations of food to food shelves and her maintaining her church pollinator garden. She is motivated by the multiple benefits each of these activities provide. Check out her posts.

Clear and constructive communication is at the core of conflict resolution and at the center of positive and successful relationships with others. When we actively listen to others we can show that we understand, value and have heard their concerns. This builds trust and provides a connection with others that allows us to dig deeper and continue dialogue on difficult topics. We may not always agree but building mutual trust and respect can go a long way. If we can find ways to resolve a specific community or environmental problem, then that is success. If you can just reduce conflicts and reduce negative statements and judgement, then that is success as well. Learning constructive and compassionate communications are life long skills for all issues and all relationships.

Two books I have benefitted greatly from include:
Crucial Conversations by Patterson, Grenny, McMillian & Switzler
Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenburg, PhD

In Portland, OR, electricity comes from a variety of sources including hydropower, wind, solar, natural gas, coal and geothermal.

All forms of electrical generation have direct and indirect impacts on the environment, animals and people, however solar seems to be the least impacting. Coal (the most polluting form) is still being used to produce 6% of electricity in Portland but it will be phased out by 2030. Battery storage is increasing which will make low emission sources like wind and solar more efficient. Electrical demand is increasing as housing and the human population increases. Electric vehicles are also placing more demand on the Portland grid. Electricity costs are rising, up 17.37 % since this time last year. Any savings in electric costs gained from conservation efforts like turning off electrical drawing units, not only saves money but also benefits the environment as we stabilize demand as we convert to less impacting sources of energy.