Literature/Film Influence:
After hearing all about Karen's business we started talking about things she'd seen or read that inspired her. She shared with us one of her (and her kids) favorite stories called Sheila Says, We're Weird. It's about how living green and "differently" can seem strange butin the end can also be pretty cool. The basic purpose of the book is to show kids how green living is important but fun at the same time. Having just finished the Lorax by Dr. Seuss in class, it's easy to see the importance of a book such as this. Karen after all, started this buisiness with her kids in mind. Often times it is the power of future generations that can help to ignite really change. Whether from a timeless childern's classic or more modern stories, childrens books are nonetheless equally as important as adult ones.
Check it out!: http://www.amazon.com/Sheila-Says-Were-Weird-Smalley/dp/0884483266
Also, when chatting with Karen we learned that Films like Gas Land, influence and support her passion for environmental change.
GasLand
GasLand a 2010 documentary directed by, Josh Fox explores the dangers of hydraulic fracturing in many rural areas across the United States. Fox confronts the important questions of hydraulic fracking, “What comes out of the ground with that natural gas? How does it affect our air and drinking water?” Fox traveled across 32 states to talk to residents that live in communities that have been affected by fracking. He learned that hydraulic fracking is not a safe form of alternative energy because it contaminates the sourrounding area by releasing toxins in the air and drinking water. After watching GasLand, I was appalled by the dangerous side effects fracking can expel. After the process of fracking, up to 30% of “fracked water” is left in the ground where it can easily seep into water wells. Also many health problems have been reported due to fracking including brain disorders, cancer, and mental illnesses. Many homeowners have been forced to leave their homes because their drinking water is contaminated with methane and other dangerous toxins. Talking to Karen, we both agreed that film can play a strong role in influencing how people think and the actions they take.
-Olivia Dynan
GasLand: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZe1AeH0Qz8