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BEIRUT: Thousands demonstrated against the sectarian system Sunday in the fourth round of protests in the capital, as part of a national campaign to topple Lebanon's sectarian regime that has been going on across the country for over a month.
The demonstration, which took the Beirut Museum as a starting point, had been called for under the theme of "reclaiming the colors" appropriated by various political parties. Protesters carried blue, orange and yellow signs and balloons.
Clown Jancouz, who was dancing with ribbons among protesters, said in a squeaky voice that "politicians took the happiness away from colors" by using them for their parties. "Colors are for us, not for politicians," he added.
Maya Muhieddine, one of the organizers of the protest, explained that Sunday's demonstration was a "revolution of colors."
"Blue does not represent the Future Movement exclusively, nor does yellow only represent Hezbollah and orange is not particular to the Free Patriotic Movement," she said.
Protesters carried signs reading "A civil country is a country of justice, equality and competency" and "No to the abolition of political sectarianism only, yes to the toppling of the sectarian system and its symbols."
"We want to send a message for everyone to understand that we're not only against political sectarianism but against the overall sectarian system," Muhieddine explained, adding that several political figures were trying to "take part in this revolution but this revolution is against them and all [sectarian] politicians."
Hiba Awar, a 28-year-old activist explained that it was crucial for anti-sectarian protests to succeed, although she admitted that the enthusiasm of some participants may have waned after clashes erupted during a demonstration in Sidon last weekend, when several journalists were targeted.
Organizers distributed flyers in which they condemned last week's incident, stressing that anti-sectarian marches were part of "a peaceful movement that rejects violence."
The flyers stressed that the movement was "independent from the March 8 and 14 coalitions."
"No MP, minister or political leader represents our movement and its principles," it said. "Banners addressing [Hezbollah's] weapons or the Special Tribunal for Lebanon are not related to the goal of the movement."
Marching from the museum to Downtown Beirut, protesters shouted "evolution, revolution," and sang Marcel Khalifeh's famous "Ya bahriyeh" (Oh Seamen) and called on those watching the demonstration from their balconies to join in.
"I don't want any more civil wars and sectarian conflicts," said George Dorlean, a 60-year-old university professor. "The only way to preserve the nation is to have a secular regime … we want to be citizens of one state, not members of [different] communities."
Sahar Mughnieh, 24, agreed. "We want equal opportunities for all people no matter what their religion," she said.
To 67-year-old Hussein al-Amine Lebanon's sectarian system ought to be toppled, "because it will lead to [a second] civil war and the destruction of Lebanon."
"Lebanon's only hope is this group of people who are convinced of the slogan 'down with confessional system,'" he said.
Protesters had planned to march to the Parliament in Downtown Beirut but were stopped by barriers and policemen positioned at Riad al-Solh Square, a few hundred meters in front of it.
Some 50 protesters clashed with the security forces after they tried to force their way to the Parliament by removing the barriers, as anti-riots police rushed to the scene to push them back and organizers shouted "peaceful movement" through loudspeakers.
Activist Maher Salloum said one officer told him he wanted to "break the legs" of the protesters.
"Obviously the police are determined to oppress us but it won't affect our decision [to stick] to the non-violent character of this movement," said Ali Dirani, one of the organizers.
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PCC Deli Spicy Cauliflower Curry
Ingredients: Organic cauliflower, organic onion, organic peas, organic extra virgin olive and high oleic sunflower oils, organic lemon juice, organic brown mustard seed, chili paste (organic garlic, organic extra virgin olive oil, organic coriander, cumin, organic cayenne pepper), turmeric, sea salt
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an adventure report for Krusty
View Single Post
Banned By BMWRider
Joined: Jun 2003
Location: Louisiana
Oddometer: 3,022
Re: Re: an adventure report for Krusty
Said DR DRB:
Dear Coonass,
Humbled would be adventurer
It's good to see a growing interest in our sport. Let me try and help you with some of your questions. Remember, take it slowly, you can't get to this level of ability overnight...you might pull a hamstring or somethin.
"I'm worried because my electronic gauge only reads to the nearest 1/2 pound"
I'm afraid the heigher mathmatics required to fully explain this is beyond the scope of this forum and will try to simplify it for you. When you sit on the bike, if the rim touches the ground, add air.
"Is it always necesarry to carry two water bottles when travelling across borders? "
Yes, but only for balance. Carry a bottle in each tank pannier and always drink from each bottle. You will find a great improvement in your riding.
"I've got some anxiety over the tribe with the pointed head coverings."
We all do!
"Those rolled up white things look interesting, but I'm wondering from the later pictures of you squatting over your bike seat whether maybe they gave you gas?"
OK. I going to let you have another of the Coonass's riding secrets...it's called an after-burner!!
"That one of the sign on the dam looks like it was taken from right on top of the dam. What kind of telephoto lens and tripod did you use?"
So, you've learned to translate the ancient dialects? This type of preparation will serve you well. It is only a standard lens. I am the daring, brave and sometimes fool hardy type of adventurer. I ignored the warning and walked onto the damn dam. This type of behavior will sometimes confuse the local tribes people and they will fear and respect you...or throw a rock.
"One more big worry. You said you travelled 150 miles in one trip with no equipment failures! Wow. Is it really true what they say about BMW reliability? Can I expect that kind of service from my machine?"
When you have prepared as much as you can, eventually you will just have to go for it. Make that first step and as the Coonass says, " Ride it like someone wants to make a fuzzy hat out of your ass!"
"...Ride, boldly ride..."
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Basketball in town tonight
Hannibal-LaGrange Lady Trojans (7-9, American Midwest Conference; 14-13, overall) vs. Lyon College Scots (15-1, 25-3), Becknell Gym, 5:30 p.m. An icy forecast resulted in six of seven AMC basketball games being moved from Thursday to today. At press time, only the Stephens-at-Park women's game was …
Sports Calendar
Upcoming sports events in Batesville and the surrounding area for Wednesday, February 20 – Friday, February 22, 2013.
Photo class canceled due to forecast
Due to the forecast of inclement weather, the photography class to be held at the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Thursday through Monday has been canceled and will be rescheduled at a later date.
Food manufacturer to open plant in Clinton
LITTLE ROCK (AP) — A food processor and manufacturer says it will open a $4.7 million production facility in Clinton, creating more than 200 jobs. Global Food Group says it will renovate an existing facility and create 224 jobs. The plant will produce sandwiches, quesadillas, …
Beyond Florida, SEC scrambles for NCAA berths
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The Southeastern Conference is bracing for potential Marginal Madness this March. With only one team ranked in the Top 25, the No. 5 Florida Gators, the SEC could have three or fewer teams in the NCAA tournament for only the second …
Wallace Jr. set to make history in NASCAR
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — With his Canon 60D in hand, Darrell Wallace Jr. is a fixture at the track, eagerly snapping photos with an insider's view of auto racing. His Instagram account is littered with day-in-the-life snapshots of cars and crews, all carrying the …
Satterwhite, Davis win no-tap bowling crown
Yvonne Satterwhite and Gary Davis teamed to win the Mixed No-Tap Tournament this past weekend at the Hollywood Bowl. Satterwhite and Davis shot a 1,550 series, which was compiled from the best three of four games and the team's handicap, topping a field off 33 …
Playing fair? District fair may move from Izard to Cleburne
MELBOURNE — If the majority of North Central Arkansas District Fair Association board members get their way, the location of the district fair will move. Currently, the event is held at the Izard County Fairgrounds in Melbourne, but a vote last week showed support to …
Smoke inside truck leads to drug arrest
The sight of a man trying to fan smoke from the cab of his truck at the Newark Park around 7:20 Monday night got the attention of patrolling Independence County Deputy Bobby Woods. Woods said he saw the man in a silver Ford Ranger sitting …
Arrest made after Sunday attack
The alleged attacker of an unidentified man in the Southside community early Sunday morning has been arrested for aggravated assault and criminal mischief, according to a news release by the Independence County Sheriff's Office. The release said when officers arrived at the scene at the …
Food allergies more common
With more and more reports of children having food allergies, it's becoming more challenging for some in the nutrition industry to accommodate those children at mealtime. Sarah Stalker, 17, knows the frustration of having to watch what and where she eats and even what she …
Woman's face cut with box cutter
NEWPORT — A Newport woman's face was sliced open with a box cutter following a fight Saturday, according to Lt. Patrick Weatherford with the Newport Police Department Criminal Investigations Division. Newport police officers were dispatched to 1055 Hout Lane in reference to a fight around …


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Real Wedding of the Day: Jaime & Brett
With all the fashion-week excitement whirling around us, we can't help but pay tribute to our very own stylish couples. Jaime's bold, one-shoulder lace number makes enough of a statement on its own, but in combination with Brett's tie-less look? To die for. And they don't stop there: The wedding is chock-full of ridiculously awesome inspiration, from multicolored bridesmaid dresses to an eclectic mix of vintage reception chairs.


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iP4 Portable Boombox with FM Radio
for iPhone and iPod with 30-pin Dock Connector
Available in Black, Blue, or Pink
Company: iHome Audio
Price: $200
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The boombox is back. Are you happy with this news, or are you running for cover? Today's iPhone/iPod boombox is very different from its predecessors. iHome Audio's iP4 is fully digital, sonically accurate, and ready to rock or help you relax, as you prefer.


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- John Moonstroller
- Canton, GA
- United States
This conversation is closed.
Would a Matriarchal Society offer a better shot at developing a world of Peace and Harmony?
Men have ruled the world since the dawn of time. Only in very limited situations have women ruled over men and called all the shots.
Would it change the world in a more meaningful way if women only were allowed to be leaders in a country? In essence, I saying what if men and women changed roles in today's world? Would it create a better opportunity to create a world of peace and harmony?
If the roles of men and women were exchanged, except for giving birth to children, would it be possible that they could create a better world for humans to live and prosper? I don't mean that the role of feminism and masculinity should be exchanged. I'm asking what if there were no Kings, just Queens.
Please no Cuss Words or inflammatory remarks made about other peoples religions.
Thank you.
Sep 18 2012: Many people are confused about the nature of Matriarchy.
Matriarchy is not a mere reversal of the current Patriarchial system, which is based on control, ownership, commodities, dominance and power hierarchies. It goes without saying that in our current Patriarchial system EITHER women OR men can be part of the power group or conversely, various stages of the under classes.
Matriarchy is actually the antithesis of this system, therefore Matriarchy is NOT based on dominance and heirarchy but collaboration, cooperation, and inclusiveness. In fact this was our natural system for most of human development and is the natural system for other primates today.
It is called Matriarchy because unlike the Patriarchial 'dominant warrior' model, Matriarchy is based around the family group first, in which both males and females have EQUAL power and roles. We still have Matriarchies on the planet today and they have strikingly beautiful characteristics.
Here is some of them:
1. They are VERY stable societies (i.e. people are happy!)
2. There is a LOW INCIDENCE or non existence of violent crime.
3. Rape is unheard of.
4. Sexually liberal for both women and men.
5. Low incidence of mental health issues.
Sep 18 2012: You have educated me very well Ms. Donovan. I would love to live in such a society as you describe in your 5 points.
Please continue.
Sep 18 2012: Matriarchy in some form is evidenced among some of the peoples of Asia and Africa, such as those of the Minangkabau, E De (Rhade), Mosuo, Berbers and Tuareg and, in Europe, e.g., Sardinian people among others.
Barbara Love and Elizabeth Shanklin say in "The Answer is Matriarchy":"When we hear the word 'matriarchy', we are conditioned to a number of responses: that matriarchy refers to the past and that matriarchies have never existed; that matriarchy is a hopeless fantasy of female domination, of mothers dominating children, of women being cruel to men. Conditioning us negatively to matriarchy is, of course, in the interests of patriarchs. We are made to feel that patriarchy is natural; we are less likely to question it, and less likely to direct our energies to ending it."
Actually if you think about it though, and study some anthropology, ancient iconography and a bit of history, another story begins to unfold. Within this story is quite a deal of hope for humankind. The system that we hold to has only been in place about six thousand years. It began with the first Neolithic farms, with the first fence. It began when the natural process of birth control began to be circumvented by the need to produce offspring to work the land. Thenceforth in some societies, women too became a commodity. Where competition came to dominate, the need to protect property arose and led to heirarchies and the rise of the hero or warrior cult and militarisation.
And yet, not all societies who chose the route to farming totally reliquished the Matriarchial model and elevated the warrior to dominant status. The answer to why this is, or more importantly, why some many societies DID transition to Patriarchy is very interesting. Unless you like long long discussions....perhaps better not to get me started, lol.
Sep 18 2012: The problem here... however is that matriarchy, in this sense, can only exist, by out innovating a patriarchal society in terms of weapons development... Something a matriarchal society never chooses to focus much energy on... unfortunately.
So, in my mind, the systems are yin and yang... You need some of us brutes to build the weapons for when the patriarchal societies attack. You must remember that it is inherently natural for apex predator species males, to dominate everything they see. In order to get men to participate in society, there need to be certain concessions made... Private property being number one.
The problem with matriarchy as a theory, is that men simlpy won't tolerate it... More than anything else... Men, often want to be left alone, an incredibly difficult thing in matriarchal society.Sep 18 2012: @David Hamiliton, you see your reply is conditioned by Patriarchy. Men are not brutes, nor do we need weapons built by them or any other member of society. You are right though, when you highlight the problem of transition. In fact this very problem is why Patriarchy exists at all, when in fact some early Matriarchies were often more advanced and sophisticated than early contemporary Patriarchies, which came to dominate them. There is a problem here for sure, but it I am sure, we can find a solution.
Sep 19 2012: Okay, I'm going to write a long response to this, and it's going to be a bit of a dark and winding voyage... but first... Like Andres, I am very happy to see you back Joanne. It's always a pleasure having these types of conversations with you specifically because we see things so similarly.. yet so differently, it's always a pleasure.
Second... Fundamental premise check "in fact some early Matriarchies were often more advanced and sophisticated than early contemporary Patriarchies, which came to dominate them"
No... They weren't... They didn't have any of the cool labor saving gadgets, that we now all take for granted. Despite the misuse of these gadgets, without them, people could be nowhere near, as happy, healthy, or progressive, as they are today. What made these inventions come into being?
Well obviously, part of my answer is going to be, competition amongst males for high value sexual targets. "I bring you pretty stone, you not sleep with bigger, scarier, dumber guy?"... But I'll expand a bit more in response to one of your other comments : )Sep 18 2012: Hello Joanne... how i missed reading your comments!
Question for you... does the definition of Matriarchy also include a less rigid sense of the relation mother-child?
I seem to recall reading that in some pre-hispanic cultures in America (continent), women in the communities used to take care of groups of children without making a strong distinction on who was whose mother. You can still see a somewhat similar behavior in many small villages in Mexico, where aunts, cousins and grandmothers take care of generations of offspring as a group without making a clear family lineage distinction between them
Just curious to know your thoughts on that.
Sep 18 2012: Yes likewise Andres and you too David Hamilton.
Yes Andres, you highlight another characteristic of these societies. Homogeneous groups develop. The term for 'mother' can be applied to any woman within the group of a certain age group, especially an aunt. Sometimes the word 'father' is not known, with uncles playing a more important role in the raising of offspring. Sometimes the word 'I' is not known, and only the word 'we'. Also I would apply the word 'brother' to all men about my age within the incest taboo, and the word 'sister' to all females about my age.
Some of the customs can still be observed among Polynesian peoples today (we have a lot of these communities here in New Zealand) and are certainly well evidenced by the Europeans who first encountered these peoples in the 1800's. (then proceeded to destroy their communities with European patriarchial world view).Sep 19 2012: When I was a child, it was common for all the kids, which gathered together in groups, to all be watered at one kids home or disciplined by one kids parent(s). It was understood in the community, usually on a small scale, say one block of houses, that this type of communal behavior was tolerated.
Like a small village. This was the inner city environment in which I was raised, in the U.S.
Sep 19 2012: Yes John, I know what you re talking about. Its still in all of us, isnt it.Sep 19 2012: "Matriarchy, is not merely a reversal of the current patriarchal system."
Okay, as a man, born into my generation, I think it's time some of us start getting honest about this issue... You may have been born into a partriarchal society... I was born into a society so torturously matriarchal, that I actually believe it is immoral to have a son. I think it's immoral to reproduce, in general, because of overpopulation... but, if overpopulation wasn't an issue... I already think this is such a female dominated society, that I would feel sorry for any man I brought into this world who wasn't born rich.
That is the real genuine emotion coming out of my generation of Americans, and that is why were are the most drug addled, pill popping, drunkard, and suicidal generation of men, in decades. Are these personal emotions? Yes, but I've asked other men, and it's not just me... Why don't men say anything... Well... They want to have sex of course.
What do I mean by torturously matriarchal?
Well.. Our school system, is based on group work rather than individual achievment, and men have been dropping out of it, in increasing numbers for 3 decades. Psychological studies proved that men would react poorly to group work, because they respond well to individual competition... but those studies were deemed sexist. So we're never going to have a functional school system for men... Ever again.
Social security, and Medicare aren't sexist... Except for the fact that women live so much longer than men... that African American, and Hispanic men, now actually have a life expectancy below the payout date of both programs. Most men pay an enormous tax their entire life, for a program they will never benefit from.
Finally what you call a "difficult transition"... I call women sending millions of more men, off to murder millions of patriarchs, to enforce a system, that doesn't even benefit the men who die... and might not work at all, because it hasn't been tried in millenia...
Sep 19 2012: First response to David: well lucky I dont have to be into work early this morning! Plenty of great stuff to discuss here, which I too have missed.
Most of your comments stem from your patriarchial world view, which is set firmly in all of us. Its going to be a bit like trying to convince someone of the ocean who has never seen it David. First let me say, yes you would do very well in a Matriarchy. Sexual frustration and competition for women is much less because there is less or no pressure on the women to remain 'owned' by one man. Relationships are more fluid and a hallmark of these societies is the often have more than one type of 'marriage', sometimes many many kinds.
But back to our discussion, this remark you made is a clear example of a patriarchial world view; 'So what really bothers me here, is that the idea that matriarchy is peaceful, and stable... Is also paired, with the fact that millions of men, have to kill millions of other men, in order for them to not kill the women who enforce it.' This is a system NOT based on competition, they are by and large NOT militarised.
The entire way of living in the world is different. Its competition for resources and the need to dominate and control them that eforces hierarchy and militarisation. Its hard to imagine such a place, but they do and have existed even up until today. And history has shown us they can be more sophisticated in terms of technology than their patriarchial rivals. The main problem is how does a system based on holistic collaboration survive next to one based on competition? Tibet v China for example. This is and was always the essential problem. Ask the Iroquoi and the Hopi.
Sep 19 2012: Exactly... This system, can only exist, after we kill all the violent psychopaths, religious zealots, and patriarchs... who are willing to die, and murder the innocent to maintain control of women.Sep 19 2012: So what really bothers me here, is that the idea that matriarchy is peaceful, and stable... Is also paired, with the fact that millions of men, have to kill millions of other men, in order for them to not kill the women who enforce it. Also, We're doing this already. The west is already at war with patriarchy... and I'm not a fan of it. Seriously though, since we're dying in this war... can't we at least get credit for being a matriarchy? Or do we have to keep saying men are in charge too?
This is the society I grew up in... one in which a woman says that women are better at "coalition building, group work, problem solving, multi tasking"... and well basically everything... and then Jon Stewart jokes "Well, someone's still gotta screw in the lightbulbs" to which he recieves a sexist boo.
Sep 19 2012: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, makes a great case for the issues poised in this debate. Great Video David.Sep 19 2012: Second response to David Hamilton; to further elaborate on the concept of militarisation. If you live in a non-militarised society, you would probably be among a people who see the world in a very different way. They might understand that loss of life, animal or human, and the violation of the earth and air, is a violation of the nurturing priniciple essential to all life including their own.
If you grew up among this kind of society, how would you view jumping on a horse or in a tank to go and slaughter your neighbour? You would not do it. You and your community would take all steps to avoid it.
And please be aware, a person born among such a community does not make a moral descison, its not a decision taken AGAINST their TRUE nature, instead, they act from their original humanity; a deep feeling of security and love for the family and environment.
Its a feeling born in all of us. Its further fostered or rather left intact, if we are then raised in a place where we FEEL nurtured, unviolated, and deeply safe. Its hard for us to even comprehend such a thing. I can hear you say 'yes yes, I saw that movie, it's la la land. The sky is pink there'. But I can tell you , I have witnessed such things. I know they exist, even today.
The problem arises when your neighbour grows the attitude for whatever reason, that it would be easier to steal your corn and daughters than grow and make his own. This is the age old problem and the point at the heart of your comments.
In fact, I have no answer for you, except to say, if we dont figure it out soon....well. Its probably curtains for us.
We who study matriarchy, or similar holistic systems, view patriarchy as a sickness that once it began to spread, could not be stopped, and perhaps cannot be stopped, due to the militarisation principle. Once that begins, communities are forced to capitulate and pick up a weapon, or die, or both.Sep 19 2012: Oh, and I forgot of course, what I alluded to in my short response...
What do you mean by sexually liberal?
Because if you mean that good men, and good women, who are productive, and generous, will have their wives and husbands, sleep with whomever they feel like sleeping with... That sounds like a hell for good men to me...
Sep 19 2012: Third response to David; long is good. Its important to remember that matriarchial systems are a SYSTEM, as you have heard me say many times, SYSTEMS facilitate certain human behaviours. Matriarchy is just a word, (dont load too much of the feminine stereotype into it) that describes a system based more on our natural human responses to each other and environment, our natural animal contentment and love (again a loaded word but sorry, there IS no substitute).
Our current violence based system, works against and destroys our basic human responses. Hence the plethora of mental illnesses and the basic sense of un-happiness that pervades our 'advanced' communities today.Sep 19 2012: Well David this deserves a fourth reply; '...gadgets, without them, people could be nowhere near, as happy, healthy, or progressive, as they are today. What made these inventions come into being?Well obviously, part of my answer is going to be, competition amongst males for high value sexual targets. "I bring you pretty stone, you not sleep with bigger, scarier, dumber guy?"
Vintage David, and I love it, lol. BUT let me ask you, so no competition among males no useful gadgets? Lets just make it clear, first sexual competition is not the only motivation that causes humans to create stuff, and its not only the competitive males who come up with such creations, (shame on you David, :).
Then of course, I have not suggested that there is no need for each sex to display skills in order to attract a partner . In these societies both sexes do exhibit behaviours, in order to make the opposite sex notice them. Plenty of room for hunting skills, dancing skills, and no doubt, the odd gadget or two.
Perhaps you want to argue that only in a crucible of violent capitalist (patriarchial) competition, could the wonders of our modern 'progressive' world be wrought? Only in this fusion, could such an explosion of development come about? Perhaps you are right but I don't think so. I think we are transfixed by our recent history, so enamoured by its glamour we are blind to what might have been, or in fact what even perhaps HAS been.
Sep 19 2012: What I am saying, is that capitalism is the first non violent competition system ever invented... and from that invention, came a new invention... Nerds, who survive, and reproduce with attractive partners. Intelligent people, who have respect, in masculline society, because, they did things with their mind other men could not do, which made other peoples partners happy.
There is absolutely no value to gaining skill, if you are not also symetric, and attractive, in the society you describe. Nerds will go back to being cuckolds, if they survive at all.Sep 19 2012: Actually, if we make it another 20 years... maybe nerds will have sex with robots : p
This message, brought to you by... The Space Pope!
Gail .
Sep 7 2012: I read a book called "When God was a Woman". It used archeological evidence to show that all cultures began with goddess worship.
- +2
BUT - this being said, I would have said yes ten years ago, but given how insane the world is today, I'm not so quick to agree. Women are now just as stupid as men. They no longer have time to ponder world affairs as they hang clothes or scrub the floors or nurse the baby. Now they spend much of their thinking time in service to businesses. This takes them away from genuine family interactions, which is a valuable learning experience. TV thinks for them, and those mega corporations who own TV news build an agenda into what they offer, so real information is largely absent. Quality is gone and money replaces all.Sep 13 2012: Well I'm from Argentina, and our president is a woman. I can say because of what i see that it makes no difference if the president is female or male.
Our president and a media group (clarin) have opposite interests, and they have divided people into followers of the president's party and followers of the media group. Any site or place with politics-related content, is flooded with insults and that kind of things.Sep 10 2012: I would say no, our history has proven that when women come into power, a few turn completely crazy from power and often feel the need to impress their male colleges by being harder than them. And taking directly from our patriarchal society and crossing it over, there would be many more of the bad women getting into control than that of the good.
Seeing how some women react around each other also suggests to me that this would be a very scary world to live in if we where matriarchal society.
Also in regards to another poster, who said diplomacy may be simpler, I 100% disagree, I know too many girls who backstab, speak terribly of each other and stuff like that.
Sep 10 2012: Scott, What history are speaking of? When were women in control of the planet? If I understand you correctly, your saying that men should not allow women into leadership roles where men could, theoretically, be pushed out of leadership positions?
Do you suggest that men backstab, speak terribly of each other less than women?
To summarize, you think that men should not relinquish control of traditional male roles to women. Is this correct?
Sep 11 2012: I figure that you where arguing for a matriarchal society being more peaceful, etc. I am merely saying that I completely disagree.
The history I am speaking of comes primarily from WW2 Germany, where in cases where women came into a prominant position, they where often by far more cruel.
Wu Zetian of China was believed to have killed and exiled many on her way to the top
Isabella I of castelle helped start the Spanish inquisition (thats even money her husband helped with it too)
Catherine the Great conspired against her husband, reinforced serfom, and brutally crushed many revolts.
This is a 15 minute list, but I want to make it clear I am not against women being in power, I am saying that if it was ONLY women in power it would be a bad thing, because generally I view women as being more petty than men essentially, not to mention much better at backstabbing and such
Sep 11 2012: Wu Zetian's violence appeared to be focused primarily on the ruling class as opposed to the peasantry. Any ruler, in the ancient Chinese dynastic framework, would pursue this path. Her personal leanings tended to be towards scholarship, and wisdom. If she formed her own dynasty and pursued these scholarly inclinations , perhaps it might haved influenced the culture of that time. We will never know. Her abilities as a woman were on par with most men in the ruling class and not in dispute.
Wu Zetian was raised as a creature of the Chinese dynastic court. Catherine, the Great, was a product of nobility . Neither can be compared to women reared and imprinted in their formative years by modern democratic, idealist, influences.
It is noted that you generally "...view women as being more petty than men essentially, not to mention much better at backstabbing and such …"
I would ask, are you married?Sep 11 2012: I am not married
Wu Zetian did create her own dynasty I believe.
Sep 11 2012: Why don't you check it out and edit this post if confirmed, Wikipedia was loaded with information about her and I don't want to read it all again. :)Sep 10 2012: I agree, Scott. Though I have not done an objective study, I get the impression that women are more picky about the men and women they associate with, and count as being in their friend-circle.
Sep 11 2012: Women have the nesting instinct that is more potent than in males.
Men tend to keep their distance from people when they talk to them and hardly ever touch others.
Women tend to do the opposite, standing closer to people and touching them to emphasize points and generally connect with whoever they are talking to. I would assume that some form of pre-analysis is taking place in their minds to determine how close they will get to the other person, based on their tendency to behave in this manner. In other words, women could be subconsciously prescreening people.
Perhaps this is why husbands who appear more family oriented have a tendency to do the same thing, inheriting this behavior from their wives; it helps to protect the nest and nestlings.
It may extend further out into their social network. I'm pretty picking about my social network, especially if kids are involved. I don't want any gigolos breathing around my wife either. :)Sep 7 2012: The state of the world today has little or nothing to do with gender.
The choices, actions and decisions of men, either great or not, have been influenced by women, and will be influenced by them.
And even if women are the rulers or leaders, they will be influenced by men.
The state of the world is a humanity issue.
Sep 7 2012: If that were true, Feyisayo, why do men spend so much time keeping women from obtaining positions at the top of the leadership chain? Why do they insist that women not be allowed real combat roles in times of war?
I know many men who are stay at home dad's and do a great job of raising the kids, doing the laundry, cleaning the house while their wives work and make more money than they in the Job market. These men tell me their wives fight a constant battle at work, trying to achieve positions that are normally associated with men and are constantly passed over because they are women. Even more, they enjoy the role as home dad.
Women are constantly having to use the court system to open doors closed to them, especially in the Military.
Sep 18 2012: Because the idea is that only men should be sent to die well the women live comfortably, also can you give any evidence of men actively preventing women reaching the upper echelons of business?
Sep 18 2012: My Grandmother did not live such a comfortable life when her son was storming the islands in the pacific during WWII. She was tormented constantly. She told me when I was in Vietnam, she relived this all over again.
A simply Google should provide you with ample evidence of men actively preventing women reaching the upper echelons of business Gracie, I'll leave google to answer your question, if you don't mind.Sep 20 2012: "For an article, on how statistics, and science, is now easy to deem sexist and racist... You'll get a laugh out of this one.."
Only an expert would know for sure. :)
I watched the video.......
rural mindedness. Ah David. I hurt your feelings. I'm sorry. If you want to talk I have a chat room on my website. :)
David. I have never doubted your integrity.
I have never doubted your motives. Well, I did think you were a republican bot at one time. :)
But those days are gone.
David. My forum is called "Peace through Communications" It is something I very much believe in. I have sent messages to many people on TED and only one or two people have answered. The fact you on TED does not mean that this it the ultimate blog with no privacy issues, and they don't collect user data and use for "what ever".
I'm still not sure your a republican agent. I work for such organizations during election time. My job is to engage people and get the message out.
Comment deleted
Sep 20 2012: I'll just respond by editing my post above your head. :) This is too let you know im online.
But you should also see my avatar in your profile page as someone who is currently logged on. There are so few aren't there? Such a waste of space.
My son and I are going to create our own web-space with video, audio. ted content, etc, to make a playground for my grandchildren and relatives who are located all over the country.
TED allows you use their content in a myrid of ways via thei API and CMS portals.
Comment deleted
Sep 20 2012: You don't have to live there David. I have a son your age he is a member.
It's a cool place or could be. Emphasis on the could be.
It's very private and secure.
anyway drop by, register and give it a twirl.
I take it your getting my PM just not replying to them?
Shalom.Sep 19 2012: "Would a Matriarchal Society offer a better shot at developing a world of Peace and Harmony?"
No, sh*t floats to the top. The average characteristics of the gender that supplies the majority of politicians and bankers is irrelevant because both genders have enough bad apples.
In a patriarchal society the worst men find a way to the top, in a matriarchal society the worst women find a way to the top and in our current Western society the worst men find a way to 2/3 of the top and the worst women find a way to 1/3 of the top.
Sep 19 2012: I would actually disagree a touch... and to me, this is where things get really interesting...
I would say the worst men find a way to half of the top positions. The best men find their way to 1/6 of the top positions. The worst women find a way on top of the 2/3 of men who have the tops positions... 1/6 of the worst women, make it to the top... and 1/6 of the best women make it to the top.
Sep 19 2012: Interesting opinion David. It would be nice if you could supply some relevant facts associated with your numbers.
Sep 19 2012: This was more of a joke, based on opinion and experience... but again, the fact we've only elected one man without a wife to the office of president of the United States... Would make the truth of this statement obvious. It is very rare for a man with power to go long without a wife. In a marriage, there is a natural sharing of power which occurs.
So... While men occupy 2/3 of top positions... Women occupy them... and 1/3 of top positions... thus putting them at a 3/5 advantage. It is also a relevant statistic that most incredibly successful women, remain single, unfortunately, so they don't share that power as often. And, lets be honest most of the power in a marriage, comes from women.Sep 19 2012: I can support everything else I said with enormous amounts of data however.
On life expectancy in the US http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2012/tables/12s0105.pdf
For proof it is not just the US, but the western world, who in order to be fair, would have to equallize social programs based on gender life expectancy.
The first 3 comments in my ted conversation on education, show statistical proof of my claim that men are dropping out of cooperative education institutions at staggering rates. All backed by census data.
For an article, on how statistics, and science, is now easy to deem sexist and racist... You'll get a laugh out of this one... http://bigthink.com/e-pur-si-muove/the-return-of-the-ugly-racist-pseudoscientist-with-a-small-penisSep 19 2012: John Good try. But not enough. Your word association stinks. :) and your physics is incorrect.
Please.Sep 18 2012: Black American Society is Matriarchal as the father does not have any role in the family or at least it is that way now. When black families were patriarchal during the time of Jim crow the crime rate of blacks was much lower and were a minority in the prison system even though the justice system was heavily biased against them. Now after they are far more equal with less bias in the justice system they now make up a majority of the criminals in the states. The reason why is that welfare came with the civil rights movement but it was targeted at single mothers, so women at the time decided to throw away their husbands to get a government check. The problem is that we now know that being raised by a single mother is the most important contributor to dysfunctional behavior and crime more than poverty or race. 85% percent of the youths in prison were raised by single mothers.
Sep 18 2012: I understand you completely having lived in an apartment complex that was heavily multi-racial. I observed this behavior (in all the races) and have studied it. I see the results you speak of and use this knowledge when associating with younger racially diverse males. Most of them call me pops. :)
Off the side, do you think doing away with the welfare program, as it was established, is helping to alleviate this social disorder and is creating a stronger, more patriarchal family system in these families today?Sep 18 2012: Connor Gracie: what you describe is neither patriarchial or matriarchial, instead you describe family dysfunctionality, or the breakdown of the family group, brought about by the contemporary urban environment and the extreme stress it places on each individual.
The male, is often more socially mobile, therefore he may exit out of the stress. The female, if she is attached to her children, or the welfare cheque associated with them, cannot. Its the system that promotes this dysfunction.
In fact, anthropologically speaking, the monogamous human male/female relationship first began as a collaboration between the (mostly but not totally )male bachelor hunter groups and the (mostly but not totally) female gatherer groups. The female group provided about sixty percent of the nutrition and it was a more stable source of nutrients too. She also developed, we believe, knowledge of plants and sowing, harvesting and propagation, while knowledge of animals probably developed among the men. The point is, our story between the sexes has always been one of collaboration for mutual benefit.
What exists today, is often a story of the breakdown of the happy relationship as we descend further and further into the capitalist maw.
Sep 19 2012: Joanne, in reply to "capitalist maw", do you suggest that capitalism has some influence in this idea?
When I read your post, it suggests, to me, that the methods of obtaining substance was once mutual and now, because of the way we have developed "capitalism" trade, the suffering in ancient times, which produced this mutual connection has been eroded by capitalism.
Sep 19 2012: Hi John, re this 'do you suggest that capitalism has some influence in this idea?'. yes I do suggest this, but perhaps we should steer clear of this loaded term as it can cause metaphorical blindness.
If we replace 'capitalism' with the word 'exploitation' or better still the word 'ownership', and the implications of violent control of resources therein, we might evolve a better understanding of the priniciples we are unravelling for discussion.Sep 19 2012: hu oh..... you never should have let David and Obey see that post. :)
I get the message..... you can delete it now:Sep 18 2012: Goodby Noemie Dupont I'm afraid I didn't get past your second sentence. We have many children in here.Sep 16 2012: John I've heard this before as have you; however, there are suppositions we make when asking this question like so manyh others that aren't true. I am just a peace time three(3) year vet. When I go to Marine alumni activities I notice that the combat vets are often missing things literally. I don't see how it would be fair to take the men out of the system and not impllement a program involving amazons. Let's get real. Okay I'll move from that to the idea that men are not so in control as people like to pretend. There have been so many women Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Queens. Does it really make any difference? No one else has noted any difference. I am against it.
Sep 16 2012: George, what if, women were running the show and men were still the weapon of choice in combat. The men could never be taken out of the system, else there would be no children to continue the race.
When you say you are against it, what do you mean? How could you prevent it if that is what women decided they wanted to do?
Comment deleted
Sep 15 2012: So george, how do you stand on the question? For, against, got a better idea?Sep 18 2012: Geroge, I flagged your comment, hopping that TED would delete it because it insult's other peoples religion. The references you use could be stated in a more appropriate way to both get your point across and show respect for the belief's of others.
TED may disagree with me; I don't know. But if we are to learn to live together we must learn to respect other people opinion's and those belief systems of wisdom, that assist them in creating those opinions. I hope you will reflect the kindness of heart and respect to delete or modify your post yourself.Sep 12 2012: Sorry Helen Hupe, did I say something about legislating love? I think love is innate to the human species and is unlearned as we grow older, but becomes like fine wine for others. Most of the kids I come in contact to relate very quickly to feeling of love but not all adults are quick to respond.
Love you, see you around. :)
PS. you won't be getting rid of men, just sort of putting them under your thumb a bit :); making them more passionate about behaving and acting respectful.
I would never had the gumption to tell my grandmother she was not right. :(Sep 11 2012: No, no, no .....you cannot legislate respect, care and understanding. With all due respect to your grandma (I had one similar to her) you just can't force people to love. It is an art that has to be learned. And please don't get rid of men...I like 'em. PS Gramas are not ALWAYS right.Sep 11 2012: John Frum, in the article you posted regarding the Musuo culture, it's states, "...However, unlike a true matriarchy, political power tends to be in the hands of males..."
I can't argue with you about Indira Gandhi.
I agree Matriarchal societies tend to be a cultural symbiosis, but that could be because women are easier to control than men, or that the men in such societies tend to be passive. That could be why their culture is allowed to continue by their more powerful neighbors. I should offer that any culture exists because they are allowed to by their neighboring cultures, or they are the most powerful culture on the block.
One of the primary objections I'm seeing in this debate is that females are characterized as psychologically equal to their male counterparts. This implies that females are not innately imbued with some characterization that sets them aside from the males.
I wonder at this assessment. Are women just men in a female body?
Sep 11 2012: I did not know that about the Mosuo! How could it be? Well, I read all I could find about the Mosuo quite a few years ago. http://www.mosuoproject.org/main.html was not available back in those days. Thanks for pointing it out. The only other matriarchal tribe I know (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nair) seem to have a culture that's just as complicated too. There, apparently, some matrilineal communities were granted land by the king, and that is what is passed on to generations of women. This community shares some features of Mosuo.
As for my objection, well... I don't see a clear basis for this sexism. Patriarchal chimpanzees are violent, matriarchal bonobos are peaceful, though these animals are difficult to tell apart. It is purely the Selfish Gene principle that's making them both that way. The same principle seems to be driving human tribes. I believe that the more modern societies defy this to a large extent. And I think that's because we can sit down and discuss things irrespective of our nationalities, religion, age or even sex. And I believe that this is what will help us build a more peaceful society. http://www.amazon.com/Carl-Rogers-Personal-Power-Revolutionary/dp/0094620903/ is an excellent way to start.
This is why I tend to protest when people favour either masculinity or femininity. If there is a stereotypical 'female' (or whatever else) trait that I find useful or inspiring, I try to adopt it. At least to the best extent my male brain allows it ;-).Sep 11 2012: While at present the feminine human seems to have a nature that is more nurtering and loving (not in every case) I doubt that having a matrial society would drastically improve thingd. It seems to me equality of the sexes and equal responsibility would do the trick.
Sep 11 2012: We are socially conditioned to perceive law enforcement agents as having command of the situation. We are to react to their commands and orders with compliance and respect. It's not perfect but it works most of the time for society as a whole.
My idea of a Matriarchal society would need to be enforced with this social assumption, that women are to be given respect as a governing force in all areas of government. The social acclimation would have to start in the family with mom having the last world in all things. Even though this is taken for granted in "some" families, and in those families where the male is just lazy, in our general social structure, the male dominates and this affect is revealed in the way our society is arranged by our rules, laws, and government structure.
We should obey the rules and laws, but our tendency is to bend them, warp them around our varying feelings of conformity. In truth, I doubt such a society as I propose could ever be enacted without a social event of immense proportions, like a virus killing off almost all the males, etc.
In my family, my grandmother was the last word in all things, not just her immediate family but extending into the first and second cousin line. Her ideas were not taken lightly nor challenged frivolously. She was very smart and most of the time her suggestions were on the top of the list. As a whole, the family benefited from her wisdom and opinions. I might add her wisdom was created during the height of the Great Depression and throughout the duration of WWII. She lost one son to that war.
If a woman such as my grandmother were to be leader of the world, the loftiest of dreams shared by humanity could become a reality under her tutoring and guidance. Perhaps all it would take to make such a society possible is to elect women leaders to the highest offices in all governments and have it become a world trend.
Women have proved they can act like men to survive in a mans world.Sep 10 2012: Matriarchal societies I have come across in literature are absolutely not like the one you described. What you described was just the society that we already have, but with women "rulers" instead of men. Women can be just as cut-throat as men. South Asia has had many women Prime Ministers, starting with India's Indira Gandhi. In each case, they were corrupt and cut-throat. These countries have women in lower positions too. Again, just as corrupt and ruthless as the men.
Matriarchal societies are not ones where women "rule over men", but where within families, women are treated as centers of families, with family property (esp. land) transferring just to females. Men and women are both promiscuous. Among the Mosuo (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosuo) the men help take care of their sisters' children, but not their own.
Among truly matriarchal societies, I have not come across any greater unit of "power" than family. So, no queens, no ministers, no officials, etc.
Sep 18 2012: There is much truth in what you say in this reply, John Frum. It does make me think.
Thank you. The family centered approach is a good one, perhaps an alternative to total rule by any gender.
But that is what we have today, isn't it?
Sep 18 2012: I agree. That is, indeed, what we seem to have these days, among the well-educated.
Sep 18 2012: John are you following along with Joanne Donovon's conversation in this debate? I'm just going to allow her to answer these questions. She does a much better job than I.Sep 18 2012: I skimmed just now. A few years ago, I was quite interested in the various forms of society. So, I had explored the field. Joanne is covering some of that now. I also recommend Jared Diamond's book, "Guns, Germs and Steel". He goes into how geography contributed to the various forms of society, including the rises and falls of matriarchal and patriarchal societies.
I'm afraid matriarchy doesn't mean much to me, besides an interesting cultural (and/or historical) artifact.
Sep 19 2012: I've read those book too. To me, I see a rise in the influence of women in society. I hope it will be for the best. Women can be just as tenacious as men and I belive because they have been kept at the bottom of the power box for so long, they will not tolerate anymore.
Religion served to put women in their place in the past but it has lost it's power in today's modern western societies.
As men, we will just have to sit back and enjoy the ride. :)
I'm married to a powerfully smart woman and I love it.Sep 19 2012: No sitting back for me yet :-)
I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
But one thing I'm still disappointed by is the lack of women in engineering.


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By Karin Haara, Executive Director, World Bioenergy Association
For the past year, the World Bioenergy Association (WBA) has been producing a series of publications highlighting achievements and developments in bioenergy, with a view to raising its recognition as an efficient, carbon neutral, environmentally friendly, convenient and cheap alternative to fossil fuels.
Bioenergy presents also a new and big opportunity for rural development as more lessons are learnt and conclusions drawn from the established bioenergy countries and we would especially recommend to check the fact sheets on Biogas and CHP. Bioenergy is normally available in most areas in some form, as a waste product from society or agricultural. This could, for example, be used to produce biogas and as a next step electricity or for cooking. The rural areas can also make themselves independent through local biomass fuel supply. Converting from fossil fuels to locally produced biodiesel for electricity generators is also stimulating local agribusiness. There are number of examples on how development is supported through bioenergy as a new and stable income opportunity in rural areas.
By publishing the facts sheets, the WBA intends to help to fill an important gap in the availability of objective and up-to-date information for decision-makers on bioenergy opportunities. To date they have launched titles including: "Small-Scale Biomass Heating", "Biomass Combined Heat and Power (CHP)","The Carbon Neutrality of Biomass from Forests", "Biofuel for Transport" and "Biogas – an Important Renewable Energy Source".
For more details about World Bioenergy Association, please visit their website.
Practical Action: Biomass Gasification Systems for Electricity Generation in East Africa
By Louise Waters, Junior Energy Consultant, Practical Action Consulting
Biomass gasification is the conversion of solid fuels like wood, charcoal and agricultural residues into a combustible gas mixture. This producer gas or syngas can be used as a fuel for heating, cooking or transport or it can be burned in a generator to produce electricity from a renewable resource. Often the remaining solid material has economic value as a fertiliser.
Although biomass gasification has been developing quite rapidly in South Asia, its potential for decentralised small-scale electricity generation is only beginning to be realised in East Africa, with only a handful of projects currently in development most of which are either in the planning or demonstration stages. The 10 kWe Mukono Gasification Plant in Uganda is an exception, having powered a pig farm and associated houses using eucalyptus as a feedstock since 2006.
Until recently, the technology had yet to be promoted at any significant scale by government programmes, national utilities or NGOs active in rural electrification. However, in Uganda there have recently been moves towards a government-driven biomass gasification programme and 2010 saw the establishment of a for-profit social enterprise, Pamoja Cleantech, seeking to implement mini-grids based on combined solar PV and biomass gasification generation. Although only at the demonstration stage, Pamoja's three pilot systems represent considerable progress for the gasification sector in the East Africa region. The technology looks set to receive a boost in Tanzania as well – President Obama's June 2013 launch of the Power Africa initiative announced a commitment to install 200 decentralised gasification power systems in the country.
The cost of gasification power generation systems is highly dependent on cost, technology selection and context. Some studies have reported reasonable economies of scale, with systems in the 10 – 25 kWe range costing around US$1500/kWe compared with US$1000/kWe for systems up to 500kWe.
The continuous output and deployability of biomass gasifier power generators offer advantages over intermittent renewables like wind and solar, although in some contexts the seasonality of feedstock availability may require careful forward planning. It should also be noted that many gasification systems co-fire a quantity of fossil fuel (typically 20%) with the producer gas in order to improve performance or allow the use of a cheaper engine technology.
Even systems which use diesel co-firing suffer from relatively poor efficiency, around half that of fossil fuel generators. This means that biomass gasification is often only economically viable when the power generated is highly valued or the biomass feedstock is available at low cost and in sufficient quantities. These conditions are often met in remote, rural areas which are beyond the reach of typical grid systems.
The reliability of gasifier-generator systems is also a cause for concern, with many examples of failed installations accompanying the success stories, although the sector is rapidly developing and more reliable and efficient technologies are actively being developed. Organisations active in the field today are rightly placing effective management of operations and maintenance at the heart of their business models.
The future of biomass gasification for power generation in East Africa will depend on the successful resolution of a range of technical issues, but equally on the establishment of a supportive policy environment and favourable economic conditions. Symbiotic application with other renewables may also be key to the success of the technology. For systems using non-waste feedstock, questions surrounding the sustainability of energy crops and the water-energy-food nexus must be addressed. Nevertheless, the potential for making use of locally produced renewable biomass resources coupled with the increased focus on mini-grid solutions means that biomass gasification could provide an important contribution towards rural electrification in East Africa in the future.
For more details about Practical Action, please visit their website.
PANGEA: Biomass gasification projects provides off-grid electricity in Uganda
By Kerry O'Donoghue, Programme Director, Partners for Euro-African Green Energy (PANGEA)
Uganda is one of the least electrified countries in the East African region with 96% of rural households lacking access to electricity. Pamoja Cleantech, an organisation specialised in biomass technologies for off-grid electricity is working to slash that number by bringing power to Ugandan villages.
Since becoming operational in 2013, the organisation has successfully established three 32kW biomass gasification plants in Uganda and is currently the only organisation operating such plants in the country. Pamoja Cleantech collaborates with the local not-for-profit Centre for Research in Energy and Energy Conservation, as well as the Ugandan National Council for Science and Technology. Their project shows the potential of this technology to positively impact the lives of so many - exactly what drives our work at PANGEA to ensure the sustainable development of African bioenergy.
At the Tiribogo site, Pamoja Cleantech have installed a microgrid connected to 55 of the village's 105 households within the first three months of operation. It has the potential to connect to more than 500 homes, which due to economic conditions currently cannot be realised.
The biomass gasifier runs on agricultural residues and waste, such as maize cobs, coffee and rice husks and ground nutshells, providing a new business opportunity for farmers. In addition, bio-char, a by-product of the gasifier process, can be upgraded to bio-fertilizer or used for bio-briquette production. Therefore, Pamoja Cleantech's agro-processing services provide income-generation for the farmers through value-addition and full capture of the feedstock supply-chain. This ensures local farmers can be independent, gain from selling biomass, and have access to services.
Pamoja Cleantech has created a synergy between agroprocessing and briquetting and uses electricity as a platform to sell energy services. They have implemented an A-B-C Energy Services model using biomass gasification as a key enabler of this platform. The three energy services pillars of their A-B-C model are: Agro-Processing, Briquetting & Charging Battery Services.
The organisation focuses strongly on women, working only with women for the briquetting training and the solar lantern projects. The women entrepreneurs rent out lanterns to replace kerosene lamps, reducing indoor air pollution and improving the health of the women and children in the village. The men are recruited for operating the gasifiers, ensuring the equal involvement of men and women. It also builds local capacity, providing a pool of skilled workers who can be deployed to operate upcoming plants in the rest of Uganda.
At PANGEA we believe there is a need for more biomass gasification plants in Africa, with their combined ability to provide off-grid electricity in rural areas, reduce poverty and drive economic development. This is the kind of inspiring initiative that shows what is possible and what can be done with the right support, and more importantly, with the right business model.
Further information about Pamoja Cleantech can be found on their website.
For more details about PANGEA, please visit their website.
ENTRADE: Energy out of Biogenic Residuals in 40-foot
By Katja Beyer, Assistant CEO, ENTRADE Energiesysteme AG
ENTRADE Energiesysteme AG developed a turnkey plant in 40-foot containers to produce energy out of biogenic residuals. Two pilot plants have been erected in Schmidtheim, Germany. The plants are fuelled by wood chips produced from waste wood such as tree branches, especially those pruned from trees growing by the roadside. Apart from electrical power it is also possible to generate heating or cooling. In future, the heating will be fed into a district heating network, while during the summer months an adsorption cooling unit can generate cooling for buildings. "The fact that these plants are fuelled by low-quality biomass for which there was no previous energetic use means that the electrical power receives an especially high price of over 20 ct/kWh", states Julien Uhlig, CEO of ENTRADE AG. "The payment for heating which is fed into a district heating network is fixed at 3 ct/kWh."
The small-scale plants developed by ENTRADE AG are highly robust and operate with solid bed gasification in the electrical output range from 30 to 45 kW. The thermal output ranges from 100 to 120 kW. Within the compact container module the controls, drying unit, gasifier and CHP are integrated and closely coordinated so that the plant can be easily set up and put into operation at the intended location within 48 hours. The turnkey construction in 40-foot containers ensures great flexibility with regard to potential operational locations.
Further research projects will extend the range of residuals that can be used to fuel the plant. The focus lies on local residuals that can be found at future locations such as Hawaii or Ethiopia. ''Bamboo is growing very quickly,'' states Julien Uhlig. ''First research projects show that a future combustible based on bamboo pellets is possible.''
While one plant in Germany can provide enough energy for 60 - 90 households it might be possible to use one plant for entire small villages in rural areas in developing countries. Remote maintenance enables the use of the plants where no local trained people are available. This way the plants will replace inefficient and expensive diesel generators which are often the only way to produce electricity in rural regions. Thus, the ENTRADE AG contributes to a sustainable energy supply worldwide.
The plants have been inspected by representatives of the district government's Mining and Energy department and classed as vanguard project.
As a financing partner, ENTRADE AG invests in responsible and sustainably oriented energy supply concepts. With its various participations the company has become a leading supplier of energy concepts on the basis of solid biomass.
For more details about ENTRADE, please visit their website.
Aora Solar
Congo Energie Solaire
Kafita Multi Purpose Co-operative Society
Rahimafrooz Renewable Energy Ltd
World Panel
Invitation: 2nd International Off-grid Renewable Energy Conference and Exhibition (Manila, 16-17 Jun 2014)
Invitation: First Annual SE4ALL Forum (New York, 4-6 Jun 2014)
Invitation: Intersolar (Munich, 4-6 Jun 2014)
ARE will be participating in a number of off-grid related activities at Intersolar. In particular, ARE Secretary General Marcus Wiemann will be presenting the potential of off-grid PV technologies for rural electrification in developing countries. In addition, he will explore business models, financing and distribution models for the small scale PV off-grid market.
Invitation: European Sustainable Energy Week (Brussels, 23-27 Jun 2014)
Launched in 2006 as an initiative of the European Commission, the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) has become a reference point for public authorities, energy agencies, private companies, NGOs and industry associations engaged in helping to meet the EU's energy and climate goals.
Alliance for Rural Electrification Welcomes New Board Leadership (Brussels, 13 Mar 2014)
RECP Workshop on Green Mini-grids (Benin, 21 Mar 2014)
EU-Africa Business Forum: Thinking cross-sectoral is vital to enhance energy access (Brussels, 31 Mar 2014)
Global Energy Storage Alliance established to advance international collaboration on clean energy policies and programs (Berkeley, 1 Apr 2014)
The newly created Global Energy Storage Alliance (GESA) was established as an international non-profit organisation to bring together many of the world's leading energy storage and clean energy industry associations to advance education, collaboration, and proven frameworks about the benefits of energy storage. Its co-founders are the U.S. Energy Storage Association (ESA), California Energy Storage Alliance (CESA), China Energy Storage Alliance (CNESA), German Energy Storage Association (BVES), India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) and ARE.
GESA is also actively engaged in a number of strategic initiatives, including developing a universal framework for evaluating energy storage cost-effectiveness for various applications, and also working to develop privately financeable business cases for energy storage‐backed photovoltaic (PV) and PV‐hybrid systems to reduce diesel fuel consumption, accelerate the deployment of renewable energy, increase access to affordable electricity, and stimulate economic development in developing countries.
Clean Energy Hybrid Mini-Grids are increasingly moving into international investors' focus (Bad Hersfeld, 9 Apr 2014)
8th German-African Energy Forum addressed Rural Electrification as core issue (Hamburg, 13-15 Apr 2014)
ARE President Ernesto Maciás moderated a panel on rural electrification at the 8th German-African Energy Forum in Hamburg (Germany) on 14 Apr 2014. One of the outcomes of this well attended session with representatives from the Renewable Energy Agencies in Nigeria and Uganda as well from private sector (Juwi, Phaesun, Siemens) was that well established regulatory frameworks are crucial to further advance investments in energy access in rural areas. Also it was said that business associations have an important coordination role in the market as they to advance information exchange and thereby understanding between private and public sector which is crucial to collaborate more effectively.
IEA Expert Workshop on the 'Africa Energy Outlook' (Paris, 14-15 Apr)
ARE is pleased that the IEA has decided to publish its Energy Outlook 2014 with a focus on Africa. As we consider this to be the flagship publication in the energy world, we are confident that it will have a number of positive impulses for African development. Paul Bertheau (Reiner Lemoine Institute) and Marcus Wiemann (ARE) attended this workshop with about 100 very important participants mainly from Africa and Europe.
New ARE training Cooperation with the International Business Institute (Brussels)
In the context of increasingly global renewable energy markets and the need to optimise value chains, the International Business Institute offers a promising programme on international trade for the global practitioner: Improve your market position by enhancing your international trade skills.
For complex international projects, dealing with cross-border flows of goods and services, it seems increasingly difficult for CEO's to find the qualified staff. Some technical skills appear to be missing, as well as the ability to a transdisciplinary vision (legal, finance, transport, insurance, culture, etc.). However, this ability to perform cross analyses is essential to optimally manage the risks and opportunities of international projects. For example, engaging in international business, one should never forget, even if not a lawyer, that everyday differences in the laws of foreign countries will influence the profits and overall success of a company doing business transactions abroad. Another example is that even if you will maybe not execute yourself the export documentation requirements for shipments like the Letter of Credit shipments or the commercial invoices, it is essential that you are aware that all documentation should meet export regulations and needs to be controlled. A last one is: what is the point negotiating a deal abroad if there is no way to repatriate the profits, or if unexpected logistics costs kill your margin?
With practical sessions during a boot camp and 21 Friday afternoons, covering most disciplines on board for international trade, the International Business Institute offers a unique programme in the centre of Brussels, set up by c-level businessmen for younger executives with ambition in international business, to equip them to cope better in foreign markets.
By partnering, IBI and ARE are able to offer to the ARE's member companies 6 participations to the next 2014-2015 edition with a discount of 50% (excl. VAT EUR 2.500,- instead of excl. VAT EUR 5.000,-).
Members registering before May 31, 2014 will only pay excl. VAT EUR 2.000,-.
Use the code "14COLEUR2"
Website: www.iccbelgium.be/ibi
Email: ibi(at)iccbelgium.be
Tel: 00 32 2 515 09 33
Ling Ng joins the Alliance's Secretariat
RENAC Green Energy Summer School on renewable energy and energy efficiency is opening its doors again
By Anja Haupt, PR & Marketing, German Renewables Academy (RENAC)
This year again, the German Renewables Academy (RENAC) will conduct the Green Energy Summer School from the 18th August 2014 to the 05th September 2014 in its Training Centre in Berlin. RENAC's Summer School offers the opportunity to get an exceptional insight into renewable energy resources and energy efficiency technology while spending the summer in one of the most exciting European cities.
With a focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency, the Green Energy Summer School blends three weeks of trainings with various site visits, lots of practical exercises plus international networking in Berlin. Participants have the choice to attend one, two or three weeks. The first week of introduction to renewable energy technology and the third week of introduction to energy efficiency suit the needs of professionals who want to enhance their career prospects by getting a comprehensive overview of green energy technologies. During the second week, participants study in depth grid-connected and off-grid photovoltaic technologies. All seminars will be conducted in English language.
The trainings are open for representatives from the public-, private-, industry-, non-profit-, and academic sectors, financing institutions and industry associations worldwide. The Green Energy Summer School serves as platform to learn in an international team of professionals while perfecting renewable energy and energy efficiency know-how. The combination of up to date theoretical lectures taught by highly qualified professionals with deep experience in the industry, state-of-the-art practical exercises and field excursions, accompanied by lots of leisure activities is geared to make learning not only effective but very exciting.
This year, RENAC organises the Green Energy Summer School in cooperation with the National Solar Energy Institute (INES) in France. Therefore French-speaking participants will have the possibility to attend the photovoltaic training also in French language, on the shores of Lake Bourget near Lyon, France.
For further information, please visit their website.
The Potential of Small Hydro for Rural Electrification – Focus: Latin America
The paper focuses on the innovative aspects of small hydro to make it a competitive technology for rural development and includes case studies from Smart Hydro Power, UNIDO - Regional Center for Small Hydro-Power in Africa, and Fundación Solar, financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
The paper also provides detailed technical information, explains the considerable benefits of small hydro as well as its role in reducing energy poverty and creating business development. Last but certainly not least, it addresses the current challenges, opportunities and public sector support options for small hydro in Latin America.
To download.


text:
Rear Suspension Height Set
So whats the problem Bunky, feel kinda low in the butt? Maybe you feel like you're snagged on a "Skyhook". I tell ya what, lets put you up there with the "big rigs" ! Oh, you want to move too, now thats a bit more complicated! The book says there are specific frame height measurements you MUST have for proper drivability , what a bummer. I know what they mean but I don't like it to look low in the back! I know spring blocks and shackles stink but I liked the way they made my 65 Belair look. So whats the answer and how can I get the super ride our coaches are noted for and not have it look like I'm packing a load? Lets talk about why they say what they do.
There are measuring slots on the front and rear of the frame and the front should measure 13 1/8" +/- 1/4" and the rear is to be 11 11/16" +/- 1/4", now you tell me you are worrying about the 11/16" -- bull! The reality is it is giving you @ a 1" drop front to back to allow the suspension alignment specs to give you proper caster. Caster is the alignment spec that gives you a light wheel, that also give you an easy straight ahead steer. If you jack up the rear any amount you will screw up your caster and it may make the coach steer like you are balancing yourself on a basketball. If you have to stay with your steering all the time, you do not have enough caster. If you think this the problem, get on an open highway (very flat) and lower the rear of the coach as much as you dare. If the steering becomes easier then you have proven you need more caster.
I said all of that to say this, test for proper caster because along with a ride height adjustment, you may also need to adjust your alignment especially if you want to level out or bring up the rear suspension. Do the test then carry on.
The real limiter of adjusting the ride height is the front suspension, sure being torsion bar you can move the adjuster bolt and raise up and down the torsion pressure but before you break out the wrenches be aware the you must first relieve the pressure on the bolt before you move it. Replacing stripped bolts also requires the adjuster tool so you may as well get the tool now! I would suggest you keep the front about where they say because too low and you'll bottom out on speed bumps and too high makes the front end look like a DC-3 waiting to take off besides you'll over extend the front suspension on bumps, toe will be grossly off and the tires will look too small!
OK, so you've adjusted the front suspension (don't you love how I glossed over the steps to do the front adjustment!), I won't do that to you, get the torsion bar adjustment tool and bring the measure on the front slots to @ 13- 13 1/2" so If you can't get the coach up that high, your torsion bar may be twisted or the "chunk" where the torsion bar it tied to the lower A arm may be twisting, check that out. If this is the case, call me & I'll hook you up with a guy in the club that rebuilds A arms.
OK, now that the front suspension is "hunky dory", (hey, don't worry bout alignment yet), bring the rear suspension where you want it. If you're a "spec man", bring the slots on the rear to 11 11/16" or so. I won't put you in the corner if you are a bit off. For you free spirits, crank that mother up to what you want it to look like. Play with it a bit because once we finish this job. it will need to be at whatever you set to keep a good driving feel. I will tell you this though, if you crank it much above level, you may have to come back and lower your expectations when you find that proper caster cannot be had.
I may need to mention right now that if you deviate from standard spec (and you know I love to when it suits me) you will effect other specs so be prepared to have to "give & take". OK, using your up/down air ride adjustment on the leveling system, you now have the coach at the level you want, right? Locate the height control valves back at the air bags for the adjustment. See the 7/16 nut at the curve of the control valve arm? Spray it down with penetrating oil and then loosen it. You will find the stud that the nut it on is in a slot on the arm. Allow the valve to "pop" to a rest position in the slot. If it needs to go further than the slot will allow, straighten ot bend the connecting rod from the control valve arm to the boggy arm to allow the height control to rest and center, now tighten the 7/16 nut and you are done! Test the operation of the height valves by dropping the rear with the "lower" control then set the controls to "travel". The coach should come up to the level you have set, if it does not, be sure the height valve is at center rest and try your test again. If this does not work, pull out the wallet and get a new height valve or a stick and mark the level then use the up/down switches to set the ride height. Hey, do be embarrised to do that, money in the pocket is a good thing!
Now comes the big test, go drive the beast and see how she steers. If its a handful, manually drop the rear and see if it improves. If so, stop by the alignment shop and tell them you need more caster and check the rest of it too. If it drives good, be careful to not over extend your arm while patting yourself on the back on a job well done!
Hope this works for you, for you sticklers for on spec., disregard half of what I just said. For you other guys, hang some fuzzy dice on the mirror, put a chrome tip on the tailpipe and rock on dude!
The 26 foot, 12,000 pound Antique Hot Rod with Plumbing -- GMC Motorhome


text: No recent wiki edits to this page. Current PES Stats: (as of July 2009) Attack: 83Defence: 38Balance: 87Stamina: 82Top Speed: 82Acceleration: 83Response: 81Agility: 80Dribble Accuracy: 81Dribble Speed: 83Short Pass Accuracy: 74Short Pass Speed: 74Long Pass Acc.: 70Long Pass Speed: 73Shot Accuracy: 82Shot Power: 84Shot Technique: 83Free Kick Accuracy: 66Curling: 75Header: 84Jump: 80Technique: 81Aggression: 83Mentality: 77Keeper Skills: -Team Work: 78