With several public hearings behind us, the threat of more coal burning is still alive.

Union workers hope to see the facility constructed, by almost 2000 workers. Local Laborers hope to secure one of the 100 lasting jobs for the 30-40 year lifespan of the plant. Most of all, coal barons are pressing to increase the gap of wealth between themselves and the rest of the nation by manipulating facts, and exploiting the economic hardships of all through deceitful rhetoric.

Affected Community Members, Scientists, College Students, Elementary Students, Farmers, Fishermen, Education Professionals and more hope to see something different; Healthy children, healthful jobs, beautified city and rural landscapes, sustained economic wellness and justice; EQUAL EQUITY FOR ALL.

Given the forum, I need not harp on the savage injustices that further coal extraction poses on fellow Americans of Appalachia. I need not break down the science of CO2 reactions in the atmosphere and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish. What I need is to ask for help.

This is the first of 8 proposed coal plants in Michigan that will add to our already impressive 19 total plants in the state. This, as the first in a series usually does, will set the precedent of how we will continue to handle issues of dirty energy and jobs versus clean energy and MORE jobs.

A wind farm in that same county could provide twice the construction jobs and twice the long term jobs, thats right, about 200 jobs for the Bay City area. Michigan ranks 14th in the nation for onshore wind potential. The correct path is obvious and leaves nobody behind in the pursuit for healthy communities and secure employment.

The people must be heard, but first they must speak.

Michigan Needs Your Help!!

1. Go here and vote on whether the plant is a go: http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://blog.mlive.com%2Fwatershedwatch%2...

2. Write letters or comments to the DEQ!!
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.cleanenergynowmi.org and click "take action" or "public comment"

Many thanks from Michigan, the MSSC, CMU, and myself