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I-GO Car Sharing applauds Center for Neighborhood Technology, recipient of 2009 MacArthur Award

Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

I-GO Car Sharing is proud to be a part of the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT), which on Tuesday, April 28, was one of only eight organizations around the world to be selected for the 2009 MacArthur Award for Creative & Effective Institutions.

“The MacArthur Foundation has a long history of supporting organizations around the world like these that demonstrate the creativity, drive, and vision to make the world more just and peaceful,” said MacArthur President Jonathan Fanton. “These organizations may be small but their impact is tremendous. From protecting human rights to improving urban neighborhoods to conserving biodiversity, they are blazing new paths and finding fresh solutions to some of our most difficult challenges.”

It was CNT—one of the country’s most venerable and innovative think tanks committed to urban sustainability issues—that originally launched I-GO Car Sharing in 2002. We remain closely attached to them to this day—both in terms of mission and literally: I-GO’s HQ is housed in the same LEED-certified-platinum office building in Wicker Park.

The accolades weren’t just from the MacArthur Foundation.

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn: “The Center for Neighborhood Technology is an innovative and creative organization that has maintained a strong focus on sustainability for over 30 years,” said Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. “The new technologies and ideas CNT has developed have kept Illinois at the forefront of green innovation, and this award is a fitting tribute.”

Sadhu Johnston, Chief Environmental Officer, City of Chicago: “Building a green city takes more than leadership from city government—it takes strong partners in the community. CNT has been and continues to be a valuable partner in the development and implementation of Chicago’s Climate Action Plan. Their in-depth analysis, along with their experience in implementing programs in transportation and energy, effectively demonstrate how and why cities are the solution to climate change.”

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

We encourage everyone to read up on this remarkable, prescient organization that has been waaaaay ahead of the green curve since its founding three decades ago. Reinventing a “smart energy grid” for the nation may be the green topic du jour now. But CNT has been talking smart grid long before the greenwashing bandwagon hoppers grabbed ahold of those coattails.

Besides I-GO, they’ve created other green consumer programs:

CNT Energy’s Power Smart Pricing helps residential consumers cut energy costs and reduce their peak energy use through hourly price signals. The plan was adopted by ComEd and other electricity providers in the Midwest.
The Energy Savers program offers a one-stop shop for energy audits and loans to finance improvements that substantially reduce natural gas and electricity use in multifamily buildings. Reductions in energy consumption lower the operating costs of rental properties, keeping them affordable for the long term.

No doubt they’ll keep innovating for another 30 years and beyond.

Congratulations CNT!

Tags: awards, chicago news, cnt, eco-news, energy, i-go car sharing, macarthur foundation
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Climate Cycle: A fundraising ride to install solar panels on Chicago area schools

Sunday, April 26th, 2009

Own a bike and free on Saturday, May 9th? If so, you should join us for a bike ride along the lake! Climate Cylce, a non-profit working to reduce global warming, is kicking off its inaugural bike-a-thon along Chicago’s southern lakefront. The event will raise money to install solar panels on local public schools. Solar energy will help save both schools’ and taxpayers’ money by reducing schools’ energy costs and also reduing their greenhouse gas emissions, the primary cause of global warming.

The event will feature two courses (a 12 mile and a 22 mile course) to choose from, both routes hug the lakefront and will be closed to vehicle traffic- not a bad way to spend a Saturday, huh? On top of the beautiful ride, there are some awesome prizes up for grabs- including free burritos for year from Chipotle!

According to Cimate Cycle, most schools spend more money on energy costs than computers and textbooks combined! Installing solar panels on local schools will save money, reuduce emissions and introduce a new generation to alternative energy and the importance of sustainability.

Click here to register today! All participants will recieve lunch, a t-shirt, goody bag and snacks. Hope we see you there!

Tags: alternative energy, carbon footprint, chicago, chicago events, green technology, solar energy
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As the worm turns: Kitchen compost made easy

Sunday, March 22nd, 2009

Have you heard about composting with worms (vermicomposting) before but been afraid to give it a try? Worried about making a mess or just not liking the idea of worms in your house? Or would your kids love to learn all that worms can do to green your household? We’ve got the workshop just for you!

Urban Worm Girl, who just happens to be a ChiTown Rewards Member, is hosting a “Worm Composting Workshop” in Lincoln Park on Saturday April 4th from 1 – 2 p.m. Don’t miss this special, hands-on opportunity to learn all about the process of composting with worms. You will also have the opportunity to buy supplies and set up your bin on-site: your worms will be ready to start working when you leave!

Come out and learn how to keep composting in the home easy, clean and fun for all. Call (312) 399-4725 or email Stephanie to reserve your spot today!

Tags: carbon footprint, chi town rewards, chicago events, eco-news, green living, living simply
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Emissions Accomplished?

Wednesday, March 11th, 2009

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently considering reversing a Bush administration decision which prevented California (along with 13 other states) from enacting stricter air-pollution standards for motor vehicles. This is great news, not only because of the positive environmental effects the stricter rules would bring about, but simply because it might actually happen!

California has been leading the fight to enact these stricter CO2 regulations for years now and has seen little help from the federal government. However, that was under the Bush administration. Things seem to be changing since Obama took office.

On January 21, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sent a letter to President Obama requesting that he review the EPA’s denial of California’s waiver request, stating, “California and a growing number of farsighted states have sought to enforce a common-sense policy to reduce global-warming pollution from passenger vehicles, which are the source of 20 percent of our nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Regulation will not only reduce these emissions, but will also save drivers money and reduce our nation’s dependence on foriegn oil… Your administration has a unique opportunity to both support the pioneering leadership of these states and move America toward global leadership on addressing climate change.”

A mere five days after Governor Schwarzenegger sent this letter, President Obama directed federal regulators to review California’s and 13 other states’ request to set automobile emissions and fuel efficency standards. According to the Clean Air Act Section 209 – State Standards, the EPA must grant the waiver unless it finds that California:

-was arbitrary & capricious in its finding that its standards are, in the aggregate, at least as protective of public health and welfare as applicable federal standards;

-does not need such standards to meet compelling and extraordinary conditions; or

-has proposed standards not consistent with Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act

The 13 other states joining California in this fight are: Arizona, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

Help make this happen – sign the petition urging the EPA to grant the waiver!

Tags: advocacy, automakers, Barack Obama, carbon footprint, cars, clean air, clean fuel, eco-news, emission standards, green cars, sustainable transportation
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I-GO gets some green ink

Tuesday, March 10th, 2009

I-GO recently received some sweet coverage in two green publications. The lead feature in Green Business Quarterly’s spring issue profiles environmental initiatives at CTA and I-GO, including our new Chicago Card Plus/I-GO combo transit card. And the Illinois Environmental Council’s 2009 Briefing Book includes an informative overview of sustainable transportation programs in the state, including I-GO.

Check ‘em out and pass ‘em around, folks!

Tags: Uncategorized
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The public likes public transportation!

Monday, March 9th, 2009

Americans took 10.7 billion trips on public transportation in 2008! This is a 4% increase over 2007 levels and also marks the highest level of ridership in 52 years, according to a report released by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

Ridership on all modes of public transportation increased in every quarter for the second year in a row. Light rail had the highest increase in annual ridership, growing by 8.3% in 2008, followed by commuter rail (4.7%), bus service (3.9%) and heavy rail (3.5%). Streetcars and trolleys are considered ‘light rail’, while subways are categorized as ‘heavily rail’.

Not only are more people taking public transportation, they are also driving less: Total vehicle miles traveled in the U.S. declined by 3.6% from 2007 levels. According to the APTA report, “This ridership record continues a long-term trend of ridership growth. Public transportation use is up 38% since 1995, a figure that is almost triple the growth rate of the population”. Not too shabby, huh?

Tags: eco-news, green living, green transportation, high-speed rail, mass transit, public transit, sustainable transportation; transportation
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Eco-friendly bamboo bikes

Sunday, March 8th, 2009

As car sales continue to fall and gas prices remain above the $2/gallon mark, it seems like more and more people are taking up a common childhood activity – biking. Biking is a great way to get around the city- you don’t have to deal with parking, gas, tickets, insurance, or traffic – AND you get some exercise along the way!

If you’re thinking about buying a bike, check out the bamboo bikes from Calfee Design. Calfee Design claims that their bamboo bikes have the lowest carbon footprint of any bike on the market today. Moreover, Calfee Bamboo bikes have won awards for Best Road Bike, Best Off-Road Bike and Peoples’ Choice Award at the American Handmade Bicycle Show.

Tags: biking, eco-news, environment, green living, green transportation, living simply, sustainable transportation
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Sun-Times compares I-GO & Zipcar

Monday, March 2nd, 2009

Chicago Sun-Times reporter Mary Wisniewski driving an I-GO Prius. Photo from Chicago Sun-Times.

Great piece in the Chicago Sun-Times today about car sharing in Chicago. I think transportation reporter Mary Wisniewski does a nice job comparing the city’s two main providers: I-GO Car Sharing and Zipcar. She doesn’t take sides, instead inferring it’s more of a lifestyle choice: Pay more for Zip, get more choices on types of cars (from green to glitzy); pay less for I-GO, get “less variety” (she cites I-GO’s all-green fleet in the article), access in more neighborhoods, and a warm, toasty glow in your heart about contributing toward a non-profit.

Okay, she didn’t really say warm, toasty thing.

And Wisniewski didn’t give much play to another benefit offered by I-GO over Zip: The new Chicago Card Plus/I-GO Card we created with CTA this year that lets you ride CTA trains, buses, PACE buses and access I-GO cars. We’re trying to link and expand public transit, make it more convenient to transfer from one mode to another, and reduce CO2 emissions by reducing car ownership and dependency.

That’s also part of our joint mission with our parent org, the Center for Neighborhood Technology. And it’s definitely something we offer that our competitor does not.

Although I’m not grinding any axes here. Obviously, I’d like to see I-GO succeed, but there is a huge amount of room in the Chicago market for car sharing providers to coexist peacefully. We’re all still in the initial stage of just spreading the word about car sharing, and explaining to the curious what the hell it is. What it is, is a very good thing, indeed. But just like all the green initiatives getting a big push these days, it’s going to take a major shift in the way we live and get around to truly effect a substantive change.

Tags: chicago car rental, chicago car sharing, chicago sun-times, green cars, i-go car sharing, zipcar
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Show me the money, Jerry Maguire!

Friday, February 27th, 2009

The federal economic stimulus package is like a fat, bloody guy who tips over in his canoe in the Amazon: It’s been swarmed over by every Tom, Dick & Harry org, biz, and state or local government with even the most remote justification for taking a nip out of the thrashing cash cow.

Thing is, of course, that creates a whole lotta bottlenecking, impatience and speculation about who’ll get a piece of the pie.

The CTA’s newest young-gun honcho and agency manager jack-of-all-trades, Richard Rodriguez—who’s facing a daunting budget deficit and service-upgrade challenges even as his boss makes a mad dash for the 2016 Olympics—must be crossing his fingers so hard for a stimulus windfall that his knuckles are turning purple. He may get help from Springfield if the freebie rides for seniors that Gov. Nim-Rod proffered during his bread-and-circus reign get yanked.

Even the mayor of Obama’s home town can’t read the tea leaves. His wish list covers about as much ground as the President’s in this video of a press conference recitation earlier this week that’s posted on Mayor Daley’s brand-new YouTube channel. (That’s right: City Hall has finally taken a cue from the Obama internet-savvy playbook, minus slick web-design bells and whistles and an overarching effort to create government transparency.)

Give us this day our Daley bread.

We wish Rodriguez well. Seriously. We look forward to working with him and the CTA on promoting the new Chicago Card Plus/I-GO Card program. And we hope there’s a piece of mutton left over from the stimulus gorging for our non-profit car-sharing agenda and the Center for Neighborhood Technology, I-GO’s parent org. We’re both part of a better green tomorrow that includes an expanded, synergistic public transportation system.

Because it’s gonna take a whole lotta green to go green, folks. But it’s the right thing to do.

Tags: car sharing, city of chicago, CTA, economic stimulus, i-go car sharing, mass transit, richard rodriguez
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Windy City, wind-powered cars?

Wednesday, February 25th, 2009

Listening last night to President Obama reiterate solar, wind, biofuel, etc., among the renewable energy sources he wants to see as cornerstones of a new green industrial complex in the U.S., one wonders how they’d be incorporated into a smart grid that benefits both consumers and business. The answers to that question are multitudinous and mind-blowing.

But here’s one possible synergistic scenario I just read about on Green Tech: a smart-grid project on an island off the coast of Denmark—supported by both the Danish government and IBM—in which energy created by wind turbines is being used to generate electricity for plug-in electric hybrid cars.

It’s not the technology R&D that’s the hold-up, though. It’s the usual red tape:

The article quotes Allan Schurr, the vice president of strategy and development at IBM’s Global Energy and Utilities practice, who spells it out:

In an interview on Tuesday, Schurr said that he planned to tell members of Congress that smart-grid technologies are already available and can deliver substantial improvements in efficiency. What’s holding back large-scale adoption isn’t technology but regulations and “institutional inertia,” according to the text of his testimony.

Gets pretty damn windy in Chicago, doesn’t it? The most obvious place to create a wind-turbine corridor is through the Great Plains states, which skirt Illinois, but northern Illinois certainly packs enough wind power to feed off such a grid. ComEd and local engineering wunderkinds at some of our universities (I’m looking at you, IIT) have plug-in fever and are seriously interested in pursuing that future agenda.

Imagine wind turbines off-shore in Lake Michigan. Possible?

Maybe all we need to get a head start in this new game is a strong wind at our backs.

Tags: Barack Obama, electric cars, i-go car sharing, renewable energy, smart grid, wind power
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Keepin' it rail in the Midwest

Monday, February 23rd, 2009

Seems our previous blog post on high-speed rail’s future prospects was a bit prescient. Check out this AP piece in the Chicago Tribune today on how Chicago, as a hub, stands to score more high-speed-rail funds thanks to early support from Obama and other Illinois pols in his cabinet (notably Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood).

Looks like Nevada and California—which want a high-speed line connecting Las Vegas and Anaheim—might be the caboose in this scenario.

Excerpted from the article:

Howard Learner, president of the Chicago-based Environmental Law and Policy Center, a group promoting a Midwest high-speed rail network, said his area is in excellent position to capture a good chunk of that money. The Federal Railroad Administration, he said, has recognized the Midwest initiative connecting Chicago and 11 metropolitan areas within 400 miles as the system most ready to go.

He and others brushed aside claims that the $8 billion was set aside for Reid’s favorite. Obama, who expressed strong interest in high-speed rail investment during the campaign, and his chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, are both from Chicago. Obama’s transportation secretary, Ray Lahood, also is from Illinois. So is the Senate’s no. 2 Democrat, Richard Durbin.

A WPA-type high-speed-rail project in the Land of Lincoln, the original rail splitter? Somehow apropos, isn’t it?

Then again, we’re talking years and years of construction and development.

Meantime, why don’t we all take a cue from the bike- and hike-friendly Rails to Trails Conservancy, and try to drive some funds their way as well? Those repurposed dilapidated tracks, like Chicago’s imminent Bloomingdale Trail, could be fixed up a whole lot quicker.

(Above photo, of Obama-Biden whistle-stop tour during their election campaign, from Time Inc.)

Tags: Barack Obama, chicago, dick durbin, harry reid, high-speed rail, i-go car sharing, Midwest trains, ray lahood
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High-speed trains: The cure for what rails us?

Thursday, February 19th, 2009

The ginormous economic stimulus package signed, sealed and about to be delivered by President Obama and a grudgingly bipartisan congress dedicates serious greenbacks to science and technology. That includes, of course, alternative energy research and sustainable mass transit. Most of the talk is about cars, given that the Big Three are currently on a life-support system with a near-flatlining EKG.

Something that doesn’t talked about much is high-speed rail. Lack of investment in rail, reports Jamble, an online magazine covering green travel, has left the U.S. decades behind Europe and Japan in modern rail infrastructure. Jamble wonders whether the funds going to improve our rail system will go to mod futuristic projects like the “Texas T-Bone” or a magnetic-levitation train from Las Vegas to Anaheim that claims potential speeds of 300mph (resulting in an 86-minute journey between the cities) or to, more realistically, improving Amtrak.

Americans like their cars, they like to fly, but not many of us bother with Amtrak, which isn’t that much cheaper than flying, a sloth compared to high-speed rail, has a lousy track record in terms of accidents (like the train that recently plowed into a garbage truck outside St. Louis) caused by poor maintenance and human error, and doesn’t boast an extensive enough network of lines and connections to make it a convenient option.

Otherwise known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, Amtrak is hardly a source of national pride. Which is a shame, really. It promises lower emissions, further independence from foreign oil, faster travel times than cars offer, business investment and tourism revenue, and a nostalgic way of reconnecting with the American landscape—something we’ve utterly lost in the evolution from horse-and-buggy to 727s and expressways. Toss in the modern equivalent of a Pullman car, the glamour of the old streamliners like the Super Chief, and we’ll book a berth tomorrow.

Tags: economic stimulus package, high-speed rail, i-go car sharing, sustainable transportation, trains
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Morgan Stanley leans on Chicago parking meters

Thursday, February 12th, 2009

When few Chicago residents were paying attention, back on Dec. 4 City Council aldermen voted 40 to 5 in favor of a deal that gives Morgan Stanley a 75-year lease on Chicago parking meter revenue. Get ready for a shock: Rate hikes go into effect, appropriately enough, on Friday the 13th and will be phased in at more than 36,000 meters in the next few weeks.

Yes, that Morgan Stanley. The same Wall Street investment banking firm getting hauled in front of Rep. Barney Frank & Co. along with other Wall Street titans blamed for the subprime mortgage and credit clusterf*&k that led to the bank bailout that led to extra bonuses for Gotham’s greediest.

The Trib reported the news in a straightforward way, but didn’t cite Morgan Stanley by name, instead referring to our new Parking Czar as “a new private operator.”

A blogger in the Huffington Post got it right.

The Loop gets hit first on Friday.

From the Trib piece:

The increases are part of a 75-year lease that city leaders recently approved with a new private operator. Under the agreement, the city receives an up-front payment of $1.15 billion from the company that will now collect payments from the meters.

The lease allows the private operator to raise rates in the coming years. The timetable for the initial increases:

*Loop: $3.50 an hour starting Friday.
*Near North, Near West and Near South: $2 an hour starting Saturday.
*Lincoln Park: $1 an hour Feb. 18-19.
*North Side: $1 an hour Feb. 20-28.
*West Side: $1 an hour March 1-2.
*South Side: $1 an hour March 5-9.

The $1-an-hour charges will mean a quadrupling of the cost to park at two-thirds of the meters in the city, where the current rate of 25 cents an hour has not changed in decades.

Although the meters have generated almost $20 million a year in net income for the city, Daley has hailed the privatization payout and similar leases of public assets as innovative thinking that will allow the city to continue to invest in vital public works projects today.

In the statement announcing the implementation of the rate hikes, Daley chief of staff Paul Volpe said the lease “is another part of the mayor’s ongoing commitment to protect taxpayers from a tax increase.”

Someone ID’d as “Chicago Bred” responded with this comment on the Trib website:

Now is the time to utilize and expand carsharing-IGO comes to mind. It’s scary to think about 75 years of more money to a private company for an upfront payout which is probably already spent.

And the comments get a lot more incendiary than that:

How obscene is it that Morgan Stanley now rakes in our inflated meter rates? This is one of the banks that gouged and took advantage of homebuyers that led to the financial crisis and then received big bucks from the bailout. How did this agreement ever come together in the first place? I haven’t seen much scrutiny of the details of this. And now while we’re digging deep into our pockets just to pick up some milk at the corner store, it’s those small struggling business people (who will never receive a govt. bailout) who will suffer from the loss of business. Patrick Fitzgerald, are looking at this one?

Sold the streets/parking meters to a private company with less three days notice to the alderman to review it for 1.1 billion. I’m not a math wiz but amortization should bring that to well over 6 billion dollars for the new owners.

What’s interesting is that I went to city hall the day that Daley was announcing his proposal for budget cuts and he said that one way to save money was to stop going through contractors and private companies for certain city services, like security. It doesn’t make sense to lease something for 75 years to someone else when the city can pocket the money. Who knows with inflation if the deal will even be worth it in 75 years?

As a resident of the loop, these meter hikes affect me directly. Up until now, the meters around my building did not need to be fed on evenings, Sundays, and holidays. Friends and family loved to visit me because they could find parking on these off-hours. This, of course, is no longer the case. Time for me to move to a different neighborhood.

Why Chicago needed to sell the streets (75 year lease to me spells “sold”) to get extra money is beyond me. Seems like they should have been able to find a way to increase the rates themselves. What drove Chicago to SELLING and handing over control and how did the council win the vote on this?!?!?

Are we seriously supposed to scrounge around for change to feed the meter on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving??? Have they no decency?

Guys, the best way to describe the privatization is that we’re taking a mortgage on our parking meters. Daily knows he can make more money for the city in the long run by raising rates and keeping the control in the city’s hands. But he also knows that he has a huge ($20million) budget shortfall this year and he can’t keep the machine running without taking out a loan! He’s brining the extra money forward with the privatization.

Wow.

First the ubiquitous cameras recording our license plates, now this. Who do our streets belong to anyway? Apparently, not the citizens of Chicago.

Car sharing can be part of the solution. But while I-GO does maintain reserved parking spaces that its members don’t pay for, we (and Zipcar, for that matter, too) can’t do anything about our hijacked and pawned-off parking meters.

Better start stocking up on those quarters. Although I’m feeling more drawn and quartered right now.

Tags: car sharing, chicago parking, chicago parking meter rate hike, city of chicago, i-go car sharing, morgan stanley
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Green jobs and cars offer hope for U.S. economy

Friday, February 6th, 2009

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson (above, far right) at the 2009 Washington Auto Show

The latest Labor Department buzz-kill report that Uncle Sam shed almost 600,000 jobs in January is beyond depressing. Could there possibly be a silver lining to this relentless economic attrition?

The people who work at I-GO, for our parent company the Center for Neighborhood Technology, and at other green-industry orgs and businesses across the nation think so.

Consider this: Even as the U.S. Senate drags its Bruno Magli heels implementing President Obama’s economic stimulus shot-in-the-arm (an arm—if we’re to torture this metaphor further—that’s showing some serious junky track marks lately), there are two fascinating trade shows taking place in D.C. that are giving off faint whiffs of optimism and future progress: the Good Jobs Green Jobs National Conference and the Washington Auto Show.

Check out the list of keynote speakers at the former, where more than 2,000 labor, environmental and business advocates are schmoozing to shape the national debate about investment in clean energy and green technologies.

When was the last time anyone saw the CEOs of the American Wind Power Association and the Alliance for Climate Protection mingling with the Teamsters and United Steelworkers unions? Strange bedfellows? Not in these radically changing times, folks. I prefer to see it as a hugely promising sign of collaboration between traditional industry and the emerging green vanguard.

Meanwhile, down the block, at the Auto Show, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood (a questionable Obama-cabinet Illinois pol who probably isn’t going to wash that bad Blagojevich taste from our mouths any time soon) and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson (who may prove just as toxic) are virtually red-carpet celebrities. The Big Three is kissing up to D.C. and giving the emissions-control folks all the green they want—as in green cars, not cash.

A US News & World Report article on the Auto Show’s website and another by Washington Post auto industry reporter Warren Brown make it clear that the balance of power and clout have left Detroit and entered the Beltway, presumably for the long haul.

Green cars are all the rage at the show, which prominently featured a Green Car Summit panel discussion and plenty of grinning greenhorns. Automakers and their lobbyists are working the levers to convince policymakers that Detroit is finally heeding the call to build more fuel-efficient cars:

It’s a radical change for an industry that once used its clout to prevent fuel-efficiency laws from passing. “Has the industry lost its power to say no?” Dave McCurdy, president of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, asked the Post. “The industry is saying, ‘Yes, however. . . . Yes, let’s work it out.’ It’s a different starting point in the discussion. The nature of the industry has changed.”

Biggest sign of the times at the show: The Chevrolet Volt won the 2009 Green Car Vision Award given by auto enthusiast magazine Green Car Journal. The contestants it beat out included an electric version of the MINI Cooper (OMG, how cute would that be?) and Honda’s FCX Clarity, an all-hydrogen fuel cell sedan (Honda and Toyota—what can you say? ahead of the curve again).

The Volt sounds pretty awesome, though. From the Auto Show’s site:

“The Chevy Volt offers a bold and far-reaching approach that will bring an exceptionally fuel efficient model to consumers at reasonable cost,” says Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com. “Besides being a great design, the Volt promises exactly what many consumers are asking for – a car capable of driving on zero emission battery power most of the time at pennies per mile, with over 100 mpg possible on longer journeys when electric power from its range extender engine-generator is needed.”

Here’s a slogan I’ll give Chevy for free: “Rock the Volt”

Eh? Pretty good, right?

Tags: alternative energy, automakers, Chevrolet Volt, economic stimulus, environment, green economy, green jobs, i-go car sharing
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Tracking the CTA

Wednesday, February 4th, 2009

The sweeping changes underway at the CTA are fueling water-cooler conversation for working stiffs and sustainable-transportation experts alike.

The latter category includes Maria Choca Urban, one of our colleagues at the Center for Neighborhood Technology (I-GO’s parent org, an urban-sustainability-focused “think and do tank”), who, on Monday’s Eight Forty-Eight program on Chicago Public Radio (WBEZ), gave an insightful assessment of the CTA that comes from firsthand experience. Maria was formerly General Manager for Policy and Strategic Solutions at CTA, and now serves as Program Manager for Transportation and Community Development at CNT.

Listen to the streaming audio file here.

RedEye’s “Going Public” columnist Kyra Kyles was the other guest commentator on the show, and both women offered a balanced, informed POV on the the agency many Chicagoans have had a love-hate relationship with for decades.

Of course, Daley’s favorite young-gun troubleshooter—ascendent, studly Everyman Ron Huberman, who’s apparently on track to head every major city agency before declaring himself a senatorial or gubernatorial candidate (not too far-fetched, right?)—was the main topic. Maria offered praise for Huberman’s efforts in his too-brief stint at CTA, including better accountability standards in the massive bureaucracy (did you know CTA has 11,000 employees?! and that’s after a recent layoff), making better use of collected data, and the CTA’s oft-beleaguered customer relations.

But she and Kyles both agreed that the new Chicago Public Schools chief (hey, he’s an ex-cop and transit guy—maybe he can get the kids to class on time and bust more troublemakers) wasn’t in charge long enough to see his initiatives truly evolve and pay off.

When a listener called in to ask why Chicago can’t have city agency bosses with experience specific to the orgs they head, Maria said that she and her fellow transit-minded think-tankers at CNT would definitely like to see a experienced transportation professional take the reins at CTA.

Is Dorval Carter, the interim prez, the right dude for the gig?

Carter’s a lawyer who moved up from Executive Vice President for Operations Support, and he’s been responsible for directing the planning and operations functions for multiple departments including Human Resources, Purchasing, Public Affairs, Government and Community Relations and Finance. Prior to joining the CTA in 2000, Carter spent 10 years at the Federal Transit Administration where he was Assistant Chief Counsel for Legislation and Regulation and managed the office responsible for preparing and directing the federal legislative and regulatory agenda for the FTA.

I just ripped that info straight from the CTA press release.

Trying to remain objective here. Because we here at I-GO have high hopes for the CTA’s ongoing transformation. We just partnered with CTA to create a brand-new joint smart card—the Chicago Card Plus/I-GO Card—that gives you access to trains, buses and I-GO’s citywide fleet of car-sharing vehicles. The idea is to make public transit more expansive and green. We’re fans of any form of sustainable transit that decreases congestion on the roads and CO2 in our skies.

Any opinions out there on how the CTA and I-GO might further perpetuate this agenda? We’d love to hear from you. Just click on the Comments link below and give us your two cents.

Tags: car sharing, city of chicago, cnt, CTA, Dorval Carter, i-go car sharing, public transit, Ron Huberman
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iTunes and I-GO

Monday, February 2nd, 2009

I-GO may not have electric plug-in cars – yet – but there’s another way you can plug in during your next I-GO trip: with an iPod.

I live in Uptown, and the two I-GO cars I use the most are parked in the Bridgeview Bank lot at Broadway and Lawrence. One’s a Toyota Prius, the other’s a Honda Civic (also a hybrid). As an avid music fan (and critic – I’m a regular contributor to Time Out Chicago), I typically spend a few minutes surveying my music collection to select just the right CD for my next I-GO jaunt.

Until it dawned on me, belatedly, that my trusty #4436 (dedicated I-GOers know their favorites cars’ IDs by heart) comes equipped with an auxiliary input for my iPod. Duh. 3,458 songs versus a 12-track CD? Hmmm.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, as an I-GO staffer I should’ve known this. But, like many members, I’m often making my reservations in a hurry and just clicking through quickly to the car I want and the specified time, so that nobody else can grab it when I need it. I don’t always look at the various search amenities on the online reservation site.

One of those amenities (in the “Find a Car” form) lets you choose a car equipped with an auxiliary mini-jack input (via the headphone port) for a portable digital audio player (or smart phone). Just check “AUX Input” and hit the search button. Lots of I-GO cars have the hookup: mainly new model year vehicles from ‘06 to ‘09, and lots of the Hondas (Civics, Fits) have them, although many of the Priuses and Scions are starting to get them, too. It’s often located on the dash console, but sometimes it’s part of the storage compartment between the front seats.

So stop by an electronics dealer and drop a few bucks on a mini-to-mini auxiliary cable cord (with two male ends) for your MP3 player. (The Apple version is pretty cool.)

Just keep your hands on the click wheel and your eyes on the road.

Tags: car sharing, car stereo, i-go car sharing, iPod, iTunes
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Pat Quinn supports I-GO Car Sharing

Thursday, January 29th, 2009

Above: Quinn, second from right, with I-GO CEO Sharon Feigon (far left) and DePaul University representatives during an I-GO/DePaul partnership ceremony in spring 2008.

As Rod Blagojevich’s governorship implodes, and Illinois Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn prepares to take the reins of the unwieldy contraption known as the State of Illinois government, we at I-GO Car Sharing would like to acknowledge that Pat’s an old supporter of our organization and an avid supporter of car sharing and green, sustainable public transit.

Chicagoist just reposted an archived interview they conducted with Quinn in April 2007. When asked for his opinion on transit, Quinn gives I-GO a huge plug as part of the solution for a more efficient public transit system. He’s quite the fortune teller: Just a few weeks ago, the CTA and I-GO joined forces to create a new Chicago Card Plus/I-GO smart card that can be used to ride CTA trains and buses and also access I-GO’s fleet of cars across Chicago, Evanston and Oak Park.

Here’s that part of the interview:

Chicagoist: When you talk about tax relief and budgets in the State of Illinois, those three things – education, health care and tax relief always seem to come up. On a more local level, what would you propose to solve the transit crisis in the region?

Pat Quinn: Well, I take the CTA, and have all my adult life. And I think it really is a crisis. I think the poor service, the trains not always clean as they should be, management leaving a lot to be desired, this should really be addressed. We need the so-called [Regional Transit Authority] to really truly be regional. Too many turf wars between Pace, Metra, CTA, RTA. Given the crisis we have, and the sustainability challenge we have, to have a green way of thinking, where you need to have an excellent public transit system, I think you just can’t hand out money in Springfield to agencies that have been acting in a dysfunctional manner. So I think you have to put some strings on that to get better performance. An example would be a universal pass, which you could use for all transit services, including there’s something we know about called I-GO, which is car-sharing. So you have your transit pass, if you wanted to use a car, and use it for an hour, you know you have this not-for-profit entity, and you can get an I-GO car, and use your pass to drive for an hour to shop, and then bring it back to where the space is. To me those are the creative solutions we need to have right now.

Tags: CCP/I-GO Card, Chicago Card Plus, CTA, i-go car sharing, Illinois Governor, Illinois Lt. Governor, Impeachment, Pat Quinn, Rod Blagojevich, state of illinois travel expenses
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Blagojevich's carbon footprint

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

Many Illinoisans have long suspected the under-siege guv of being a gasbag. But while Hot Rod is providing fuel for columnists, political blogs, talk show hosts and SNL, has anyone thought about the gas he guzzled, and the CO2 he emitted, during his recent trip to NYC for that whirlwind PR blitz?

Look, sometime pols have to travel on the public dime. But jetting off across the country (and I doubt he traveled coach) just to brandish your shining helmet of hair for Larry King (look for the moment when he thinks he’s off-camera and tries to sneak in a quick hair fix) not only cost Illinois taxpayers for his travel expense reimbursement, it also unnecessarily contributed to carbon dioxide emissions — something Gov. Nim-Rod presumably is against, since he’s backed legislation to compel state agencies to buy flexible fuel vehicles that partly use ethanol and biodiesel. (Though the scientific jury is still out on ethanol’s big-picture advantages.) Then again, the Guv did cut public transit funding and subsidies last year, while still expecting the CTA to let seniors ride for free, so his promotion of sustainable transportation for all seems about as schizo as his attempted media makeover.

Someone correct me if I’m wrong. But judging from my own whirlwind Google search today, travel expenses for employees of the State of Illinois are administered by the Illinois Travel Regulation Council, which in turn falls under the purview of the Illinois Dept. of Central Management Services. (Ah, bureaucracy. So lovably Orwellian.) I may be misinterpreting the legalese here, but the council’s rules on “official travel” do include this no-brainer stipulation: “It is the policy of the State to reimburse employees for reasonable authorized expenses incurred by them in the performance of their duties.”

Obviously they aren’t going to authorize hair spray or teeth whitening dental procedures, but who out there among the electorate would consider Blago’s pandering on The View (”Come on, Governor, do your Nixon impersonation! Say ‘I am not a crook’!”) a “reasonable authorized expense”?

And let’s not forget that Rod apparently detests Springfield so much he’s long chosen to govern from his lovely Ravenswood Manor home. So when he’s compelled to head downstate, hasn’t that also been a completely avoidable travel expense (not to mention, environmentally obnoxious) for which taxpayers have to pick up the tab?

Emissions accomplished, Governor.

Tags: carbon footprint, clean air, clean fuel, emission standards, Rod Blagojevich, state of illinois travel expenses
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USB lunchwarmer warms lunch & my heart

Saturday, January 24th, 2009

Treehugger has a post about this excellent USB lunchwarmer from Japan, which could not only help you save money and cut down on waste, but could also be a warm hat for those in hyper-air conditioned offices.

The manufacturer sums it up (through a Google translation):

Fun fun time for your lunch, dinner is cold but we do not. Lunch not only beloved wife, can heat up your lunch bought at convenience stores.

Indeed. I want so bad. Wonder if it works on pop tarts…

Tags: items, neat stuff
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Eat green and good with I-GO

Friday, January 23rd, 2009

In the dead of winter, how does Bacon Wrapped Midwestern Meatloaf sound? How about Prairie Pure Macaroni & Cheese with cheddar and Gruyere. Is your mouth watering yet?

This weekend, head over to Uncommon Ground on Devon. It’s open for brunch, lunch and dinner, and in the evenings they have some hot music to get your feet tapping. Even cooler, they’ve embraced environmentalism like nobody’s business and installed Chicago’s 1st certified organic rooftop farm. The building itself is green and they are committed to serving seasonal, locally produced food as much as possible. You can read all about it here.

AND, I-GO members can get 10% off their check if they show their card.

Bon appetit!

Tags: Uncategorized
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Follow Change and whatnot on the White House website and blog

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009

Hey everybody, did you see the new White House website? Very cool – so much change. For you sustainability wonks, there are a lot of good bits on the energy & environment section – let’s hope President Obama can see these goals through. You can keep up with all the Change on the White House blog.

Are you confident in our new President’s commitment to green energy and sustainability, or do you think it will be forgotten as foreign policy and economic crises pile up?

Tags: Barack Obama, links, policy
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Take a bike lane with you

Friday, January 16th, 2009

This is pretty sweet – this gadget lets you take a bike lane with you.

The lasers help drivers see you and give them a clear boundary to avoid you, making biking safer at night.

Do you have any tips for safe biking, running, or walking at night?

(via GOOD)

Tags: neat stuff, transportation
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One BILLION cars

Friday, January 16th, 2009

That’s the world population of cars now, and it could double in the next 20 years. This is according to Daniel Sperling, author of the book Two Billion Cars: Driving Toward Sustainability. Sperling was interviewed yesterday on one of my favorite radio shows, Fresh Air.

It’s a really interesting conversation about the history of technology advancements and market forces that have influenced the makeup of the car population now, and how we might slow its growth and make electric, hybrid, and hydrogren vehicles take up a larger share in the future.

Car sharing gets a lot of love, of course, but some of his other answers are surprising. He points out the shortcoming of mass transit and promotes bike sharing, paratransit, and other ways to change what he terms “the transportation monoculture.”

You should take a listen, even if you’re not a policy wonk – these Big Picture questions address important facets of all our lives.

(AP photo via anthonares.net)

Tags: cars, eco-news, links
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Forget your Hummer – I need the Aeolus Airship

Friday, January 16th, 2009

Oh man. Want.

Some images like this leaked of the Aeolus Airship – a sleek, people-powered blimp that can fly up to two weeks. It was designed by someone named Christopher Ottersbach. I can’t find much of anything about him or where to find out more about this vehicle, so it might be some hoaxy thing or a movie promo. I don’t care if it is imaginary – I want to pedal through the sky:

So when is Chicago finally gonna get a blimp-sharing service?

(via Treehugger)

Tags: green technology, neat stuff, transportation
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Make your own takeout

Thursday, January 15th, 2009

Treehugger has links to great recipes for familiar takeout dishes that you can make at home, like pad thai, burritos, and General Tso’s. Not only are you saving money and energy, but you can make your favorites even tastier – maybe tonight I’ll make some ultra-spicy Thai…

Tags: ideas, living simply
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Protect Your Skin When the Temperature Drops

Wednesday, January 14th, 2009

Aside from the occasional I-GO trip, I rely on the CTA and my own two feet to get around. I spend a lot of time outdoors, even in these freezing temperatures. But sub-zero conditions can leave my face flaky, cracked and red. Here are some tips to keep your skin healthy while braving the elements.

1. Prevent flaky skin.First, avoid products that contain alcohol, which is drying. Instead, use a gentle cleanser and switch to a richer moisturizer. Neutrogena products are my personal favorite.

2. Stop a red nose. Unless you’re guiding Santa’s sleigh, no one wants a red nose (which, by the way, is caused by dilated blood vessels). Since sun exposure can also cause redness, wear plenty of SPF 30 sunblock, even in the dead of winter. Kiehl’s makes a good one. And a warm — not hot — compress to the skin for a few minutes should also reduce redness.

3. Keep lips moist and crack-free. There’s no such thing as too much lip balm. It’s your first line of defense against chapped lips. Also avoid licking lips which dries them out even more.

For more tips to keep your skin healthy this winter, check out this post from Real Simple.

Tags: living simply, neat stuff, tips
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2010 Toyota Prius unveiled in Detroit

Tuesday, January 13th, 2009

The auto blog Jalopnik has a ton of coverage from The Detroit Auto Show, where there have been a lot of hybrid cars introduced, including the 2010 Toyota Prius. At 50 MPG, the new Prius will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle available in the country. You can bet I-GO will be looking at the new Prius and other hybrids like the Honda Insight and Ford Fusion Hybrid to add to the already green fleet.

For photos (like this one) and news about new hybrid tech at the big auto show, check out Jalopnik’s full coverage.

Tags: cars, eco-news
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Is this blog post contributing to Global Warming?

Tuesday, January 13th, 2009

You see this? The Times of London did a story exploring how much greenhouse gasses are created from doing a Google search and other web activities. Apparently two searches release the same amount of gas as it takes to boil a kettle of water. Servers and big computer machines apparently need a lot of power.

Unsurprisingly, Google took issue with the story, pointing out the apparent efficiency of their servers and claiming a search uses as much energy as a human body does in ten seconds, much less than boiling a half kettle of water.

I think a persuasive point they could have expanded on is that doing the amount of research a Google search does in pre-Google times would have taken many car trips to many libraries to look through stacks of paper.

Of course, back then, we didn’t have to update our status to the world every second, which probably could make a few kettles worth of tea.

Tags: links, neat stuff
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I-GO/CTA buzz

Thursday, January 8th, 2009

Word is out about I-GO’s collaboration with CTA – here’s some coverage around the internet:

MSNBC.com
Contactless News
CBS 2
Progressive Railroading
Yo Chicago (plus bonus classic YouTube interview with I-GO Business Development Manager Richard Kosmacher!)

Tags: i-go news
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Chicago expands red light ticketing program

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

As some of you may already be painfully aware, traffic surveillance cameras have been popping up around Chicago at intersections in recent years. Getting caught running a red light on one of these cameras will cost you a hefty $100 ticket in the mail. Already, the City has installed 248 cameras at 123 accident-prone intersections and it looks like there are many more to come.

The 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals has given the City of Chicago the go-ahead to continue installing red light camera at intersections throughout Chicago. Rejecting the so-called “innocent owner’s defense”, the ruling states:

“Is it rational to fine the owner, rather than the driver? Certainly so. A camera can show reliably which cars and trucks go through red lights, but is less likely to show who was driving. That would make it easy for owners to point the finger at friends or children- and essentially impossible for the city to prove otherwise”

The City will now move ahead with a major expansion program, installing cameras at more than 330 intersections by 2012. Thus far, these cameras have raised $94.5 million in revenue for the city. However, City Hall insists that it’s more about safety than money, claiming a 59 percent drop in red-light running since installing the cameras in 2003. What do you think? Is this a fare form of traffic enforcement, or is Big Brother going too far?

Tags: cars, chicago news, tips, transportation
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CTA and I-GO team up

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

Hey everybody! Big news – today folks can sign up for the brand new Chicago Card Plus/I-GO Card. This card can be used to ride CTA trains and buses, Pace buses, and of course, I-GO cars. Not only does this make it easier for people to manage their transportation costs, but it is a recognition of car sharing as an extension of a sustainable transportation system.

Tags: i-go news
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Tree recycling in Chicago

Monday, January 5th, 2009

Don’t add your beautiful Christmas tree to an area landfill – give it new life by having it recycled. The City of Chicago is offering free recycling at parks all over the city through January 16, so load up your ole tennenbaum in an I-GO truck or SUV and drop it off – these sites are taking trees 24 hours a day:

Bessemer Park
8930 S. Muskegon Ave.

Clark Park
3400 N. Rockwell

Forestry Site
900 E. 103rd St.

Garfield Park
100 N. Central Park Ave.

Grant Park
900 S. Columbus

Humboldt Park Boathouse
1369 N. Sacramento

Jackson Park
6300 S. Cornell

Kennedy Park
11320 S. Western

Kelvyn Park
4438 W. Wrightwood

Lake Meadows Park
3117 S. Rhodes

Lincoln Park
Cannon Dr. at Fullerton Ave.
(Parking lot east of Cannon Dr.)

Margate Park
4921 N. Marine Dr.

Marquette Park
6700 S. Kedzie

McKinley Park
2210 W. Pershing Rd.

Mt. Greenwood Park
3721 W. 111th St.

North Park Village
5801 N. Pulaski Rd.

Norwood Park
5801 N. Natoma

Portage Park
4100 N. Long

Riis Park
6100 W. Fullerton

Rowan Park
11546 S. Avenue L

Sheridan Park
910 S. Aberdeen St.

Warren Park
6601 N. Western Ave.

Wentworth Park
5625 S. Mobile

Tags: green living, ideas, tips
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World's 1st plug-in hybrid fuel cell bus unveiled in Burbank, CA

Sunday, December 28th, 2008

Burbank Bus announced that they will be the first to put a plug-in hybrid fuel cell bus, the Proterra HFC35, into service. The Proterra can fully recharge in only 6 minutes (!) and can travel up to 250 miles before needing to be recharged. The bus has double the fuel economy of a diesel bus and releases nothing but water from the fuel exhaust. Moreover, the Proterra was created in this country (designed by Colorado-based Proterra) and uses power that is 100% derived from U.S. sources- meaning more energy independence for us. Burbank Bus plans to have the Proterra in operation within various routes by spring. Check out the full press release here. Wouldn’t it be cool to see these type of buses come to Chicago?

Tags: eco-news, green living, neat stuff, transportation
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Green Parent Chicago: winter activities for the kids

Monday, December 22nd, 2008

Not sure how to keep the little tykes busy this holiday season? Check out Green Parent Chicago’s helpful list of ideas on ways to keep the kids entertained- away from the tube. Ever think you’d go snowshoeing in the city? Well, there’s a first time for everything!

Tags: chicago events, green living, green site, ideas, kids, links, living simply, neat stuff, tips
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I-GO Breaking News: Congressman Ray LaHood Named Transportation Secretary

Thursday, December 18th, 2008

This just in. President-elect Obama will name Illinois Congressman (and Republican) Ray LaHood as Transportation Secretary.

What does this mean for those of those who are interested in transportation issues, especially those related to the environment?

Well, no one really knows. While LaHood’s environmental record has been both scrutinized and criticized, he wins high points for his ability to work across the aisle to get things done.

Let us know what you think of Obama’s recent appointment and what issues you think LaHood should focus on first?

Tags: eco-news, transportation
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The Key to Successful Living

Thursday, December 18th, 2008

There’s a very cool article about WPA posters at ReadyMade. You can even download and print them out for your very own. My favorite:

You know what… pop this guy in a frame and you got a great looking yet affordable last-minute gift for a friend or colleague who has all the Go Bucks he or she can use…

Tags: ideas, neat stuff
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How green will Obama be?

Sunday, December 14th, 2008

No doubt Obama will do more to advance a sustainable/green agenda than the current administration has- but just how “green” will the next administration be? Carol Browner is said to be Obama’s top choice for “Climate Czar”- dealing with environmental, energy and climate related matters. She previously served as Administrator of the EPA during the Clinton Administration. Check out these short clips to get an idea of where she’s coming from…

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oY3OkWNbels&hl=en&fs=1]

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_TD-_ZN7-c&hl=en&fs=1]

Tags: eco-news, transportation
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Tel Aviv to try out plug-in car system

Tuesday, December 9th, 2008

An electric car charging station was unveiled today in Tel Aviv – the system will be expanded and tested in Israel before coming to other countries like Denmark and Australia. Think these guys will come to Chicago any time soon?

Tags: eco-news, neat stuff
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Cure December blues at an organic Christmas tree farm outside Chicago

Tuesday, December 9th, 2008

Are you suffering from grinchitis? Are you hating December, with its wetness, coldness, manufactured nostalgia and hyperconsumerism?

Maybe you need to grab a friend or two, hop in your I-GO car, and head to Ben’s Tree Farm in Harvard, Illinois for some corny old-time fun. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride to pick out an organically-grown Christmas tree that is fun to decorate and will make your apartment smell better. While you wait for Ben’s staff to bail your selection for free, you can hang out in the Warming Barn and enjoy free hot cho.

A road trip out to the country to escape the ads and icy sidewalks for a while and do some old-school holiday stuff might help bring you out of a Winter Funk – just be sure to drive safely.

Trees start at $19.95 and are totally Green as well as green – Ben’s has some tips for keeping it nice. The farm is open Weekends from 9 am-4:30pm, and Thursdays & Fridays from 11:00am-4:30pm until Sunday, December 21st. Here are some directions.

Tags: green living, ideas, neat stuff, places to go
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Will Obama help grow an electric car bumper crop in Hawaii?

Friday, December 5th, 2008

Will Barack Obama’s childhood island state become the first in the nation to fully support a transition to electric vehicles? The President-Elect has made it clear he plans to make sustainability and green-collar jobs top priorities during his administration. Now, Hawaii is attempting to lead the country in adopting use of all-electric vehicles. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the greed and lack of vision we’ve been witnessing on Capitol Hill as the Big Three automakers beg for a bail-out.

This past Tuesday, Hawaii announced plans to become the first state in the U.S. to create a statewide electric recharging network for electric cars. The Hawaiian state government has joined forces with Better Place, an ambitious start-up that I posted about earlier this year, in an effort to make all-electric vehicles a reality by building car charging and battery swapping stations around the islands and purchasing renewable energy from Hawaiian Electric Co., the state’s largest utility.

They plan to have the recharging stations up and running by 2011, and to have built 50,000 to 100,000 charging spots across the state by early 2012. Shai Agassi, Better Place’s founder and CEO, claims the electric cars will cost the same as gas powered cars — at first. However, over time, electric cars will be less expensive to make because they use far less parts than cars with internal combustion engines.

In late November, San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area cities also announced plans to join forces with Better Place to create an electric recharging network by 2012. However, Better Place chose Hawaii as the first statewide rollout for several reasons: the size of the state, the contained environment and consistent climate the island offers, and the abundance of renewable energy resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal and wave power.

Here are two short clips: one of Agassi and Hawaiian Governor Linda Lingle driving one of the Better Place electric vehicles (hopefully, we’ll be seeing more of these cars in the near future), and one of Agassi answering a reporter’s questions about Better Place’s agenda for the Bay Area.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LH-FyvwsrEg&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1]

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGD9aRC4Y5M&hl=en&fs=1]

Tags: cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living, green site, living simply, neat stuff, transportation
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Ho, ho, ho with I-GO

Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008

Can’t get a ticket to Obama’s Inauguration? Who cares!

I-GO has a ticket for you that’s even hotter–our holiday party! I-GO members and their friends are invited to join us December 9 for some tasty chow, delectable libations and even sweet raffle prizes. Don’t miss our new I-GO Green Mojito and other eco-friendly cocktails courtesy of VeeV!

Here’s the 411:
When: Tuesday, December 9, 2008, 5:30pm-8:00pm
Where: I-GO Car Sharing, 2125 W. North Ave
RSVP by Friday, December 7 at holidayparty@igocars.org or 773-269-4018 and include your name, email, I-Go member ID and how many guests are attending.

CTA Travel Routes:
Red Line to North & Clybourn stop and transfer to #72 North Avenue bus to Hoyne. Blue Line to Damen stop and walk west on North Ave 1 1/2 blocks. Take the #56 Milwaukee bus or the #50 Damen bus to North Avenue and walk west on North Avenue 1 1/2 blocks.

Tags: Uncategorized
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Snow days were more fun Back In The Day…

Monday, December 1st, 2008

It’s the first big snow of the year, and as I hear Chicago school closings listed, I am again bummed as heck that I won’t ever experience the joy of a snow day. Heart pumping as the list is read, the ecstasy as your school is called, the video games and PJs all day while you skip your homework again…

But now we grown ups have to soldier on in this weather, getting wet and cold waiting for the El, scrubbing salt stains from our shoes, wiping out on the ice, and also braving dangerous roads. For folks not used to driving in this mess, be sure to follow some of these important tips as you do your grown-up business in your favorite I-Go car:

Turn on your head lights so other cars can see you.
Stay a bit further behind the cars in front of you – when there is snow and ice, you’ll need about three times the amount of space to break.
If you get stuck, clear snow from the tires and ease your way out. Spinning your wheels will just get you more stuck.

More tips on Winter driving are at weather.com. Stay warm and safe.

(Image from WBBM CBS 2 Chicago)

Tags: cars, tips
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Last-last-minute Thanksgiving groceries in Chicago

Wednesday, November 26th, 2008

Procrastinating cooks throughout the city might want to know where to go for last minute turkeys and fixings for the holiday. I checked it out – here are Thanksgiving Day hours for Chicago grocery stores:

Whole Foods: Chicago stores are open 7am-3pm, Evanston’s Chicago Avenue store is open until 5pm
Dominick’s: Most locations, including South Canal and Halsted, are open 24 hours – Streeterville location is open 6am-9pm. Check here for all locations.
Jewel: Most close at 6pm – you can check your location here.
Trader Joes: All stores are closed on Thanksgiving, so get a move on if mango hot dogs and organic pop tarts are on the menu.

I pretty much looked at websites and talked to some store managers, so double-checking is advised.

As always, I-GO cars are available throughout the day all over Chicago for lugging around turkeys and cranberries and sweet potatoes (or going out to the suburbs to eat your mom’s or grandma’s…). I’m gonna jump in one to go get my own sweet potatoes for some Thanksgiving hashbrowns:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xShyedT9Ny4&hl=en&fs=1]

Merry Turkey Day everyone.

(photo from Google’s sweet LIFE photo archive)

Tags: links, local food, neat stuff, tips
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Is green always green?

Monday, November 24th, 2008

Dudes. Been thinking about how environmental stuff is really mainstream these days. There are as many “green” products and services out there as there are “lite,” “premium,” and “improved.” This is great on some level, but I wonder how much making all the crap we buy and things we do slightly less awful for the planet does for the larger cause. Wouldn’t consuming less crap be much better?

For example, sharing cars (with I-GO, obvs) to get your people and groceries around seems to make a lot more sense than schlepping around town in a Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. What do you think? Are there some “green” things you’ve come across that don’t make much sense?

(Image from Earthfirst)

Tags: green living, living simply
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I-GO Mexican

Friday, November 21st, 2008

When the cold weather hits, there’s nothing better than a plate of warm, spicy Mexican goodness–like tamales or queso fundido. That’s why I recommend you take an I-GO car to Humboldt Park’s Maiz Anojitos Y Bebidas. Not only can you warm your belly, but you can save cash too. Here’s how: Maiz is an I-GO Chi-Town Reward partner, which means that if you show them your I-GO card, you can get 15% off your entire bill. In these economic times, that’s muy caliente!

Tags: Uncategorized
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Living it up eco-style

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

I just found this list of Top 10 Ecolodges and Green Hotels at the website Independent Traveler. Back In The Day, an “ecolodge” would sound like some sort of hippie hostel in a log cabin where you sing songs about how great dirt is. Not now – check out Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina:

Much of the hot water for the hotel and its restaurant is heated by 4,000 square feet of solar panels on the roof, and water-saving fixtures are used throughout the guestrooms and other facilities. Bikes are available for guests to ride on a nearby five-mile greenway.

Guestrooms may be green but they’re also luxurious, featuring 32-inch flat-panel TV’s, original artwork, complimentary Wi-Fi, large windows that allow plenty of natural light, and many other amenities.

No communing with your inner dirt diety there. Have you ever been to one of these eco-green-all-natural hotels or lodges? What was it like?

Tags: eco-news, green living, green site, neat stuff, places to go
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Rally for cleaner air

Friday, November 14th, 2008

There’s a rally/press conference this Sunday in support for The Illinois Clean Cars Act (HB3424), which would make Illinois the first Midwest state to adopt California vehicle emission standards for cars and light trucks. This from the Environmental Law and Policy Center:

Passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks will be required to emit significantly reduced levels of volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, and other air pollutants including several carcinogenic air toxics

Reduce global warming pollution from new cars by an average of 22% by 2012 and by average of 30 % by 2020 and slash air toxics by 13%-21% and reduce critical air pollutants by 5%-16% by 2030

Apply to vehicles for the 2011 model-year and after

The Secretary of State can prohibit the transfer of a new vehicle or vehicle engines if found to not be compliant with the vehicle emission standard

Sounds good to me – I-GO members won’t have to change any of their habits, except get used to breathing cleaner air.

The event is downtown at Federal Plaza at Dearborn and Adams this Sunday November 16 from 2-3pm. If you have any questions, email cleancarsillinois@gmail.com.

Tags: advocacy, chicago events, eco-news
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Fewer Cars = Stronger Economy?

Friday, November 14th, 2008

In a new report unveiled by the Center for Neighborhood Technology, transportation leaders across the country are calling for an immediate and robust investment in public transit, high-speed and intercity rail, neighborhoods that are less car-dependent, more walkable and more affordable, and restoring the thousands of roads and bridges in failing condition across the United States. Funding these important projects has the potential to create millions of good, green jobs nationally, save Americans thousands of dollars per year, and reduce America’s dependence on oil once and for all.

What do you think the new Obama Administration should do to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil? Leave a comment and let us know what you think.

Tags: eco-news, transportation
Posted in Motormouth | 1 Comment »

Election rally street closures & parking bans

Monday, November 3rd, 2008

I-GO members who’ve reserved cars near Grant Park may want to take note of the following, which we pulled off a press release issued by 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly’s office:

“The following are some of the parking restrictions, street closures and event guidelines that will be in place starting as early as Monday, November 3rd.

PARKING BANS:
Parking bans will be in effect from Lake Michigan to the Kennedy/Dan Ryan Expressway, as well as the Chicago River to the north to 22nd Street to the south Tuesday, November 4th after the PM rush hour.

Residents are advised to pay special attention to posted signs.

STREET CLOSURES:
On Saturday, November 1, 2008, Balbo Drive will be closed between Columbus Street and Lake Shore Drive.

After the November 3rd AM rush hour, Columbus Drive will be closed between Congress Parkway and Roosevelt Street.

After the PM rush hour, the closure will extend as far north as Randolph.

Please note that residents may see additional rolling closures throughout the Central Business District from Tuesday afternoon thru Wednesday morning.

(Rolling closures are intermittent and temporary street closures used for motorcades as they travel on city streets. They are enacted for security purposes only.”

Tags: Uncategorized
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I-Go Blog Love

Friday, October 31st, 2008

Bloggists in Chicago and beyond show love to I-Go, and we love them right back. Here’s what they’re saying:

Lots of folks highlighted I-Go’s expanding partnership with the CTA, including Business Travel Logue, Upgrade, Hugh Bartling, and Gapers Block.
Ecorazzi posted about this years inductees into the Environmental Hall of Fame. We learned that I-Go was inducted along with Pierce Brosnan. Thanks, guys! Just tell us when the speech is scheduled, and when we need to sit down with the sculpter of our bronze bust.
“Being Green” in Chicago, a blog by U of I student Evan T. Munch, wrote about Michael Hawthorne’s recent Tribune piece about car sharing.

Do you have a blog? Sweet. Leave a link so we can check it out.

Tags: blogs
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Get Spooky with I-GO

Wednesday, October 29th, 2008

Looking for some frightening fun this Halloween? Use I-GO Car Sharing to hit the super-scary, suburban haunted houses. With names like Dragon’s Dome, Scream Scene and Nightmares: Basement of the Dead, your dreams may be haunted long after the 31st.

Dragon’s Dome. Deep in the heart of the dark woods, aka Frankfort is an abandoned castle creeping with dragons and other fierce beasts.

Scream Scene. Wind your way through a maze of creepy rooms, featuring crazed butchers, chainsaw maniacs and harrowing monsters. Who knew Skokie could be so scary?

Nightmares: Basement of the Dead. Ghouls and zombies haunt the deep tunnels that run under Aurora. So intense, you have to be 13 or older to visit.

For more haunted fun in the area, check out Haunted House Chicago.

Tags: Uncategorized
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Far-Flung Fun: Bridgeport

Monday, October 27th, 2008

Far-Flung Fun will be an occasional series of posts here on Motormouth that will shed some light on fun stuff in some of the less glitzy corners of our city you can enjoy with I-Go. Impress your friends or dates with food, drinks, and entertainment you can’t find in Lakeview or River North.

Today, we give you three reasons to point your I-Go car to Bridgeport:

Co-Prosperity Sphere – 3219 South Morgan
The center of old-time, blue collar, Machine Chicago doesn’t seem like a likely place for an “Experimental Cultural Center,” but here it is. The Co-Prosperity Sphere showcases artists, musicians, and performers in a 5,000 square foot gallery. In November, the space will feature INFOPORN, an exhibition of graphs, charts, and maps, presenting a “visual explosion of points and paths.”

Ed’s Pot Sticker House – 3139 South Halsted
One of the best, most authentic Chinese food in Chicago isn’t in Chinatown or on Argyle, it’s on South Halsted in Bridgeport – just follow the old-timey chasing lights outside Ed’s Potsticker House. Ed’s famous soup dumplings and cigar-shaped pot stickers are delicious treats that you won’t find at your local the take-out place and are a fun and inexpensive alternative to burgers or pasta.

Schaller’s Pump – 3714 South Halsted
Celebrate a Sox win, plot political power plays, and experience Chicago history at the oldest bar in the city. If you like old man bars, you need to experience the ultimate. Plus, like everything else in Bridgeport, a beer is a lot cheaper At Schaller’s Pump than in Wrigleyville.

Tags: local food, neighborhoods, places to go
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Easy Going: Yahoo sends clues to the carless

Friday, October 24th, 2008

If you’re a walker like me, Chicago is like another city while driving – one way streets, exits, construction… how’s anyone get anywhere with a car?

Yahoo Maps can help – it now has a feature that will send directions to your phone – just put in your digits and Yahoo will send the map and directions directly to your phone so you can get where you’re going with less wrong turns and missed exits.

Tags: tips, tools
Posted in Motormouth | 1 Comment »

I-GO Getaways: Philadelphia

Friday, October 24th, 2008

Chicago isn’t the only city with a non-profit car sharing program. Cities like Philadelphia, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Cleveland, Toronto and Vancouver (to name a few) have them too. And with your I-GO membership, you have access to them all. Call I-GO at 773-278-4446 a week prior to your trip and we’ll coordinate the details with our car sharing partners and get you driving.

To promote this feature of your I-GO membership, we are bringing you a series of travel guides to help you plan your trips to these fun and exciting cities. First up, Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Guide: PhillyCarShare

What to do: While there are can’t miss historic sites right in downtown Philly (like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall), use PhillyCarShare and head out to beautiful Bucks County. Drive scenic River Road along the Delaware River, tour eight wineries, explore historic towns and museums and check out 11 covered bridges. Antique shops, specialty boutiques, art galleries and open-air markets offer a variety of shopping opportunities.

Where to Stay: Check out Penn’s View Hotel located in the heart of Old Philadelphia, the birthplace of America. There are PhillyCarShare locations located within blocks of the hotel.

Where to Eat: It’s not Chicago deep-dish, but Osteria’s wood burning oven pizza was rated the city’s best. Unpretentious, lively and fun, Osteria is a Philly favorite serving up great Italian food.

Tags: Uncategorized
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Easy Going: Tips to keep kids cool

Thursday, October 23rd, 2008

Kids get pretty bored in the car, especially kids who aren’t used to staying put in the back seat for two or three Cosby Shows (the time increment used in the car when I was a wee one). When kids get bored, they get ornery – best to keep them occupied before mom or dad Needs To Stop This Car.

Travelhacker has posted 27 Free Games to Keep Your Kids Entertained on a Road Trip, which is a great place to start – from the classics I Spy and Slug Bug, to more outside-the-box ideas like that second grade favorite, the paper fortune teller.

These games result in a lot less tears and screams than my favorite car game as a child, Not Touching You Can’t Get Mad.

Tags: ideas, kids
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Help Bring Clean Cars to Illinois

Thursday, October 16th, 2008

The Illinois Clean Cars Act is an important piece of legislation that will soon be voted on in Springfield. The act would require new cars sold in Illinois to have higher fuel efficiency standards, thus improving air quality and public health, while also reducing global warming pollution. This is Illinois’ opportunity to lead the Midwest in adopting standards that will require auto manufacturers to build cleaner cars. How will this benefit Illinois residents? Check out this interview with Joe Shacter, senior policy advocate at the Environmental Law & Policy Center.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQOV6tHU8Lc&hl=en&fs=1]

To learn more about or take action on this bill, visit the Environmental Law & Policy Center’s website.

Tags: cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living
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Car Ownership a Hassle

Tuesday, October 14th, 2008

This morning, I stumbled upon an article on going car free- with the help of car sharing!

Does Anyone Want My Lexus? IGO Car Sharing!

“Car payments, leases, insurance, gas, parking, washes, maintenance, I-Pass… it all adds up. Before you know it, you are in over your head. When I look at all the extras in owning our car, I always come back to the basic philosophy our family recently adopted. We want less.”

Read full article

Tags: Uncategorized
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I-GO to the Chicago Marathon

Tuesday, October 14th, 2008

Part of I-GO’s mission is to get cars off the street and reduce urban congestion. But if you made it out to the 31^st annual Chicago Marathon this past Sunday, you might have caught a glimpse of I-GO’s very own Sheena McNeal taking that ideal one step further. Or, rather, thousands of steps further. People power is about as low-emission as it gets.

Sheena has been our Outreach Coordinator for the past two years. This was her first marathon; although, judging from the glow on her face afterward, it won’t be her last. Congratulations to Sheena and all the other runners who participated and epitomize the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation of all.

Tags: chicago events, green living, i-go members, i-go stories, neat stuff
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Bike Sharing in Barcelona

Friday, September 26th, 2008

This morning I stumbled upon an interesting, detailed article on Bicing- the thriving bike sharing program in Barcelona. Earlier this month, I talked about the accretion of bike sharing across the globe. The more I learn about these successful bike sharing programs, the more I want this in Chicago! I mean, Mayor Daley did pledge to transform Chicago into the greenest city in the U.S…. What do you think? Would you utilize a bike sharing system if it came to Chicago?

Bicing Station in Barcelona

Tags: eco-news, gas prices, green living, living simply, neat stuff
Posted in Motormouth | 1 Comment »

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