2009
DECEMBER 31: CITY OF BURLINGTON UPDATES NO IDLING ORDINANCE
The City of Burlington updated their No Idling ordinance, cutting the maximum allowed parked idling time from five to three minutes, and eliminating the April 1 to Nov. 1 season exemption by making the ordinance in force year-round. Details on the Local Efforts page.
DECEMBER 5: VERMONT CONFERENCE ON COMMUNITY ENERGY & CLIMATE ACTION
UVM Extension and the Vermont Energy & Climate Action Network (VECAN) present...A Vermont Conference on Community Energy & Climate Action Saturday, December 05, 2009, Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee, VT, from 8 to 4.
This conference is for those interested in how Vermont communities can take action to increase energy efficiency and renewable energy for municipal government, businesses, and residents. The day will include concurrent workshop presentations, regional break-out meetings, and general sessions. The goal for the day is to provide strategies communities can implement to reduce energy costs and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Featured speakers: Patrick Parenteau, Professor of Law and Senior Counsel, Environmental & Natural Resources Law Clinic, Vermont Law School; afternoon keynote will be delivered by Senator Bernie Sanders.
Idle-Free VT will have a display at the conference's Transportation table.
NOVEMBER 18: VERMONT 4-H YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL MAKES STATE HOUSE PRESENTATION ON IDLING
 The Vermont 4-H Youth Environmental Council (V4-HYEC), which chose the issue of vehicle idling in Vermont as their area of study this fall (see Oct. 3 and Nov. 7 below), made a formal presentation at the State House entitled "Vehicle Idling in Vermont". Three 4-H high school students each spoke about the issue, accompanied by a PowerPoint/slide presentation. The presentation covered many aspects of idling including why people idle, it's impacts, idling legislation, how law enforcement changes behaviors, and recommended solutions to idling. Among audience attendees were Rep. David Sharpe, Rep. Jim McCullough and Idle-Free VT director Wayne Michaud. Daniel Barlow of the Vermont Press Bureau covered the event and wrote the Times Argus story, "Advocates seek to extend idling ban to large vehicles."
NOVEMBER 7: VERMONT 4-H YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL MEETING ON IDLING
The Vermont 4-H Youth Environmental Council (V4-HYEC) chose the issue of vehicle idling in Vermont as their main topic of concentration for this year's program. This program is a partnership of the VT/NH Schweitzer Fellowship Program, Vermont Law School, and the UVM Extension 4-H Youth Programs. Lisa Campion, Vermont Law School student, is the V4-HYEC Coordinator and Lauren Traister, UVM Extention 4-H Programs 4-H Educator. The teen group, ages 13-19, is studying all aspects of vehicle idling, both when it is necessary to idle and when not. They are researching and will be presenting environmental issues to Vermont’s legislative committees. This was one of several meetings of the V4-HYEC (see also Oct. 3 below). Rep. David Sharpe (Addison), Rep. Mike Mrowicki (Windham) and Wayne Michaud, Director, Idle-Free VT Wayne's speech were invited speakers for this meeting, which took place at Vermont Law School in South Royalton, VT.
Meeting observations: the three 4-H students immediately involved in this study have learned a lot about the issue of unnecessary vehicle idling. They are approaching the issue in different ways, such as researching ways to get idling awareness in the driver's education manual, and working with school boards to implement idling policies for vehicles other than school buses on school property. The students are very interested in learning more about diesel truck idling that will enable them to make presentations to legislators as part of their ongoing study in November and December. They will be prepared to testify as H.97--an act relating to the idling of motor vehicles over 10,000 lbs. is debated in the 2010 session. Rep. Sharpe spoke about how he became interested in the idling issue and what it takes to get a bill passed. Rep. Mrowicki in relating idling's negative impacts of climate change and health, spoke of how essential youth are to the legislative process.
NOVEMBER 7: IDLE-FREE VT COSPONSORS ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION 2009 CONFERENCE
Idle-Free VT was a co-sponsor of Enviromental Acton 2009 conference at Vermont Technical School in Randolph, VT. This event was hosted by: New England Grassroots Environment Fund, Toxics Action Center, Vermont League of Conservation Voters, Vermont Natural Resources Council, VPIRG, and Vermont Technical College. It was a day of exciting speakers (including gubernatorial candidates), workshops, and networking with activists and community leaders from across Vermont and New England to mobilize the grassroots to create healthy communities.
Idle-Free VT's co-sponsorship included a table display. Idle-Free VT's co-sponsorship fee was generously donated by the Sierra Club, Vermont Chapter.
NOVEMBER: IDLE-FREE VT CAMPAIGN RECEIVES RECOGNITION IN DEPT. OF ENERGY NEWSLETTER
The Dept. of Energy newsletter, National Idling Reduction Network News, featured Idle-Free VT in a news item: "Idling Guidance 'Straight from the Horse's Mouth'" for the newly created OWNER'S MANUALS page which shows actual owner's manual pages from various 2009 model vehicles recommending and in some cases warning that motorists limit idling to save fuel and avoid increased engine maintenance and possible engine damage.
OCTOBER 3: VERMONT 4-H YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL 2ND MEETING ON IDLING
The Vermont 4-H Youth Environmental Council (V4-HYEC) chose the issue of vehicle idling in Vermont as their main topic of concentration for this year's program. This program is a partnership of the VT/NH Schweitzer Fellowship Program, Vermont Law School, and the UVM Extension 4-H Youth Programs. Lisa Campion, Vermont Law School student, is the V4-HYEC Coordinator and Lauren Traister, UVM Extention 4-H Programs 4-H Educator. The teen group, ages 13-19, is studying all aspects of vehicle idling, both when it is necessary to idle and when not. They are researching and will be presenting environmental issues to Vermont’s legislative committees. This was one of several meetings of the V4-HYEC (see also Nov. 7 above). Roger Lohr, Hanover (NH) Idle Awareness Campaign, and Paddy Shea, UVM Transportation Research Center were invited speakers for this meeting, which took place at Vermont Law School in South Royalton, VT.
SEPTEMBER 25: SECOND BATCH OF NEW IDLE-FREE VT PAMPHLETS & POSTERS DELIVERED TO DMV
1,750 new Idle-Free VT pamphlets and small posters were delivered to the Commissioner's office of the Dept. of Motor Vehicles in Montpelier. These are replenishing the ones initially offered to Vermont motorists in the DMV's six offices including Montpelier, Bennington, Burlington, Newport, Rutland and Springfield on Oct. 2008. The Sierra Club, Vermont Chapter has once again generously donated the printing of 2,500 pamphlets. The remaining 750 will be used by the Idle-Free VT campaign. They are the same ones as the two-sided pamphlets seen on the Idle-Free VT website Idling Facts page.
SEPTEMBER 18: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS "MY TURN": "AS WEATHER COOLS, WATCH THE IDLING"
The Burlington Free Press published an op-ed by Wayne Michaud that informs about the natural tendancy of motorists to increase vehicle idling as the weather turns colder, why it's a harmful and wasteful practice, and how minimizing it has positive effects.
SEPTEMBER 10: RUTLAND HERALD PUBLISHES "TURN OFF IDLING CARS AND TRUCKS"
With a smattering of color in the trees followed by frost on the fields, this marks the time typically in Vermont when an increase in warm up idling occurs. This Rutland Herald editorial by Wayne Michaud explains why this archaic practice is harmful and wasteful--and unnecessary.
AUGUST 21: AMERICAN LUNG ASSOC. IN VERMONT SECURES IDLING REDUCTION DEC GRANT; WAYNE MICHAUD HIRED AS COORDINATOR
While the American Lung Association in Vermont (ALAVT) did not get funded by the EPA Healthy Communities grant, they did get a smaller grant from the Vermont DEC, allowing them to go forward with a regional idling reduction campaign: VERMONT IDLE-FREE FLEETS that would target commercial diesel fleet operators in Chittenden and Rutland counties.
Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT will be hired as a part-time consultant for ALAVT to be project coordinator for this year long plus project. His duties will be working with ALAVT staff to compile a list of businesses, contact them, develop an idling reduction policy toolkit and PowerPoint presentation and to offer presentations to these businesses. The ALAVT will provide a campaign promotion including press releases, letters to the editor, outreach to e-advocacy members and no-idle signage. Offering assistance in this project will be UVM medical students as well as the Vermont Coalition to Reduce Vehicle Idling (VCRVI).
The goal is to increase the number of current businesses with policies (approx. 18 in Vermont) by 12. The project gets underway in October. Additional granting sources are being sought to expand this effort.
Around the beginning of the new year, the American Lung Association of New England website will host information on Vermont Idle-Free Fleets. There will be a prominent link from this website to it.
AUGUST 12: AMERICAN LUNG ASSOC. IN VERMONT HONORS WAYNE MICHAUD
The American Lung Association in Vermont had a Volunteer Appreciation Cruise on what was a perfect weather Lake Champlain sunset cruise by Northern Lights cruises. Awards and honors were presented for recognition to lung health. Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT, was recognized as Air Quality Champion for his continuing effort to raise awareness of unnecessary vehicle idling. Wayne is shown receiving his honor with Rebecca L. Ryan, Director, Health Promotion & Public Policy, American Lung Association in Vermont.
AUGUST 9: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "NO DOWNTIME FOR ANTI-IDLING ACTIVIST"
In the Burlington Free Press' new Green Mountain section of all things environmental/sustainable/localvore, Wayne Michaud and the Idle-Free VT Inc. campaign was featured in a story written by Free Press Staff Writer Matt Sutkoski
JULY 23: "HOW BEST TO DEAL WITH CARBON RAGE"
In the Addison Independent's (Middlebury, VT) Between The Lines column, "How best to deal with carbon rage", columnist Gregory Dennis told of his and other's roles in dealing with wasteful carbon emissions that contribute to climate change, featuring the example of an idling SUV outside the local post office.
JUNE 30: AMERCAN LUNG ASSOC. IN VERMONT & UVM TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH CENTER APPLY FOR IDLING REDUCTION PROJECT GRANT
The American Lung Association in Vermont (ALAVT) and UVM Transportation Research Center (UVM) has jointly submitted a proposal for an EPA Healthy Communities grant for a Vermont regional educational idling reduction project. This proposed project has grown out of an initial gathering and subsequent draft from May 20, 2008 (see box below). It will also work directly with the recently formed Vermont No Idling Coalition. The one- to two-year project would focus on two Vermont counties--Chittenden and Rutland--where population density and elevated asthma rates are issues of particular concern. As a main part of the project, community and business training events will be held to inform and educate these groups about the impact of unnecessary idling, particularly of commercial diesel engines, on the economy and public health. UVM will develop a survey tool to ascertain current policy, if any, attitudes and behaviors of Vermont businesses, especially those with fleet vehicles. Public Service Announcements would be developed to broadcast the benefits of eliminating unnecessary idling with the connection to lung health.
The ALAVT / UVM proposed project is also anticipating funding of a smaller grant from the Vermont Dept. of Environmental Conservation. The project would commence in October. EPA grant application selections will be announced July 24.
JUNE 29: IDLE-FREE VT VERMONT COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE GRANT PROJECT IS NOT FUNDED
Idle-Free VT Inc. proposed Commercial Fleet Operator Idling Reduction project did not receive a grant. Some reasons why: it was difficult to compete against larger, more established organizations and municipalities. Almost all funded projects were of weatherization, boiler replacements and updated lighting. These projects offered more promise of measureable energy savings. Idle-Free VT's project, despite stipulation of installation of truck telematics data measuring devices, was perceived as more educational in value.
MAY 1: IDLE-FREE VT APPLIES FOR A VERMONT COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE GRANT
Idle-Free VT Inc. Director Wayne Michaud applied for a grant from the Vermont Community Climate Change Grant Program. Idle-Free VT's proposed year-long project, "Commercial Fleet Operator Idling Reduction", will be to work directly with up to 20 Vermont fleet operators to eliminate unnecessary idling by implementing idling reduction policies that would include a combination of driver education and truck telematics (GPS type mobile tracking systems). The main demonstration model for this project will be the Green Mountain Coffee Roasters policy which for the last three years has saved them 5,500 gallons of fuel resulting in savings of $16,500 annually from idling reduction alone! This has also resulted in reduction of CO2 emissions by 61 tons annually! Grant applicant selections will be announced on or around June 15.
Idle-Free VT would like to especially thank the following in support and encouragement of this grant application: Paul Markowitz, Idle-Free VT Advisor and Sierra Club Vermont Chapter, Don Ostler, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Rebecca Ryan, American Lung Association in Vermont, Laura Asermily, Middlebury Area Global Warming Action Coalition, Karen Glitman, VT Clean Cities Coalition, Bob Walker, SERG, Rep. David Sharpe, and Wayne's wife, Duffy Michaud. Also many thanks to the Sierra Club Vermont Chapter (mainly through the efforts of Denis Rydjeski) for providing a Match Grant for this project.
APRIL 27: A COALITION OF NO IDLING ADVOCATES MEETS IN WATERBURY
A newly formed coalition of Vermont no idling advocates, tentitively called the Idle-Free Vermont group, met at the Vermont Dept. of Environmental Conservation complex in Waterbury. Their goals are to build support for passage of H.97--the idling of 10,000 lbs. plus vehicles in the 2010 legislative session and to get funding for a Vermont regional no idliing campaign--possibly targeting Rutland, which has the highest rate of asthma in the state. This campaign could eventually be broadened to a statewide effort. Attendees were Karen Glitman, VT Clean Cities Coalition, VT Transportation Research Center, UVM, Tom Moye, Air Pollution Control Division, VT DEC, Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT, Rebecca Ryan, American Lung Association, Don Ostler, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Paul Markowitz, VT Sierra Club. The 1 1/2 hour meeting centered around funding sources, strategies and partnering. The Idle-Free Vermont group hopes to meet on a monthly basis with the next meeting scheduled for June 2. Those groups or individuals interested in joining this coalition are strongly encouraged to do so. Contact Paul Markowitz at 802-229-6307 paul@markowitzvt.com See the VERMONT NO IDLING COALITION PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND UPDATES
APRIL 6: IDLE-FREE VT IS NOW IDLE-FREE VT INC.--A NONPROFIT CORPORATION
The Office of the Vermont Secretary of State has granted a Ceritficate of Incorporation to Idle-Free VT making it Idle-Free VT Inc., a nonprofit corporation. Idle-Free VT will now be able to be its own fiscal agent, enabling qualification for funding of grants. Dave Polow, Idle-Free VT advisor, and attorney of Polow Polow & Mahoney of Hyde Park, kindly filed the articles of incorporation. Idle-Free VT will soon file for 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation status.
MARCH 24: VERMONT NEWS GUY PUBLISHES "WORSHIPING IDLES"
John Margolis of the Vermont News Guy online blog interviewed Wayne Michaud for a story about the Idle-Free VT campaign and the state of idling in Vermont.
MARCH 10: H.97 WILL NOT MAKE "CROSSOVER"
Despite a positive reception in House Natural Resources and Energy, H.97 will not make crossover into the Senate this session. A biennium bill, it is expected to have a much more favorable chance next session. More details on the Idle-Free VT Legislature page.
MARCH 3 - 24: LETTER TO US EPA / RESPONSE FROM US EPA REGION 1
Wayne Michaud, director of Idle-Free VT wrote a letter on the subject of unnecessary vehicle idling to the US EPA on March 3, addressed to Lisa Jackson, Administrator. It was suggested that the EPA needed to extend current initiatives such as Clean School Bus USA and heavy-duty SmartWay to a comprehensive all motor vehicle idling national educational campaign. I pointed to the effective model that is the Natural Resources Canada Idle-Free Zone federal campaign. The response to my letter on March 24 came from EPA's Region 1--the New England states region. It mainly discussed the initiatives both the federal agency and Region 1 have implemented in the last seven years. Both letters can be seen here. Pages 1 and 2 are Wayne Michaud's letter; pages 3 and 4 are the EPA's letter of response. The EPA cc'ed Tom Moye, Section Chief of the Vermont Dept. of Environmental Conservation Air Pollution Control Division.
2009 TOWN MEETING NO-IDLE RESOLUTIONS
Due to a limited time commitment and lack of follow through by Idle-Free VT, and the more pressing priorities of town Energy Coordinators, no towns adopted no-idle resolutions at the 2009 Town Meetings. Details on the Local Efforts page.
FEBRUARY 10: H.97 TESTIMONY BY AMERICAN LUNG ASSOC. IN VERMONT
Rebecca L. Ryan, Director, Health Promotion & Public Policy, American Lung Association in Vermont, testified on behalf of H.97 before House Natural Resources and Energy. Ms. Ryan indicates that the committee received her testimony well. The enforcement issue was raised again but she talked about "our efforts to educate and hope to expand." Representatives from IBM, Koda and VT transportation each stated that each needs exemptions - for refrigeration, for auxilary power needs and for cold air--all of which are in the current bill. Further action on the bill may not be taken up until after the Town Meeting break.
FEBRUARY 3: H.97 TESTIMONY BEGINS
Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT was invited to testify on behalf of H.97 before House Natural Resources and Energy. Wayne presented his testimony with questions and comments following. The discussion was generally supportive of H.97. There were questions of the ability to enforce an idling law (Wayne agreed enforcement would be difficult and sparse but pointed out a couple of cases where a 10,000 pound law has been). This lead to a discussion on how the law could be more effective with an educational component written into the bill such as how "Click It or Ticket" works. The committee was generally enthusiastic about this idea. Further tesimony is being scheduled on H.97.
JANUARY 28: H.97--AN ACT RELATING TO IDLING OF MOTOR VEHICLES INTRODUCED
H.97 is sponsored by Rep. David Sharpe, Bristol with nine cosponsors. It is a bill that would restrict idling of vehicles in excess of 10,000 pounds--heavy-duty commercial; mostly diesel. Details can be seen on the Idle-Free VT Legislature page. On January 29, H.97 was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy.
2008
DECEMBER 6: NO IDLING WORKSHOP AT ENERGY & CLIMATE CHANGE WORKSHOP, RANDOLPH, VT
Idle-Free VT participated in a no idling workshop at a conference on Community-Based Approaches to Energy and Climate Change at Vermont Technical College in Randolph. Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT was one of three panelists and moderator of the no idling workshop, titled "Implementing a No Idling Campaign". The other panelists were Paul Cameron of Brattleboro Climate Protection and Brattleboro town Energy Coordinator, and Steve Bower, chair of the Richmond Climate Action Committee. Here is Wayne's presentation.
SEPTEMBER 28: IDLE-FREE VT FEATURED ON FRONT PAGE IN RUTLAND HERALD AND TIMES ARGUS
The Idle-Free VT campaign was a front page feature titled "NO TIME TO IDLE" in both the Sunday Rutland Herald and Times Argus which are having an ongoing series on ways Vermonters can improve our environment. Staff writer Kevin O'Connor interviewed Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT director for the more than 1,700 word story.
SEPTEMBER 19: NEW IDLE-FREE VT FLYERS DELIVERED TO DMV
1,800 new Idle-Free VT flyers were delivered to Howard Deal, Deputy Commissioner of the DMV in Montpelier. By October, the flyers will be available to Vermont motorists in the DMV's six offices including Montpelier, Bennington, Burlington, Newport, Rutland and Springfield. A small idling poster will also be displayed at each location.
AUGUST 28: IDLE-FREE VT RECEIVES $100 DONATION FOR ADDITIONAL FLYERS
Idle-Free VT received a donation of $100 from a member of the listserv who prefers to remain anonymous. This gift was designated to increase the quanity of the new full color, two-sided Idle-Free VT flyers, most of which will be distributed out of DMV's six locations. Total print quantity is now 2,500. DMV has approved the content of the flyers and they should be printed by mid September. "THANK YOU" anonymous donor!
AUGUST 21: IDLE-FREE VT SECURES FUNDING FOR NEW FLYER THANKS TO THE SIERRA CLUB, VERMONT CHAPTER
Idle-Free VT will soon have new, updated flyers printed, mainly intended for distribution through DMV offices (see below for more details). Denis Rydjeski, Idle-Free VT advisor and Global Warming chair of the Sierra Club, Vermont Chapter sucessfully appealed to members for funding of 2,000 full color flyers. A big "THANK YOU" to Denis!
AUGUST 20: IDLE-FREE VT REVISES CERTAIN IDLING FACTS
Idle-Free VT has revised certain idling facts based on changes at the Natural Resources Canada Idle-Free Zone, a comprehensive idling report and recommendations from additional reliable sources. These changes basically deal with the recommended time to idle before restarting and the updated impact on air quality emissions. Boxed overview of revisions (listed for one month) and supporting footnoted sources are listed on the Idling Facts page.
JUNE 30: VERMONT IDLE-FREE PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN FIRST DRAFT
In an update of the May 20, 2008 meeting (see below), Karen Glitman, Vermont Clean Cities Coordinator of the UVM Transportation Research Center has submitted a first draft of a funded Vermont Idle-Free Public Education campaign. This draft will be considered by the principals from the meeting.
JUNE 22-24: DMV OFFERS TO EDUCATE MOTORISTS ABOUT IDLING
Wayne Michaud sent a letter to Bonnie Rutledge, Commissioner of the Vermont Dept. of Motor Vehicles requesting that the DMV educate motorists about idling. This letter was sent in the wake the Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition's request that the DMV educate motorists in a safety message resulting in a "Share the Road" message on DMV new license plate envelopes that are mailed to motorists. Howard Deal, DMV Deputy Commissioner wasted no time in responding to Wayne's request with a phone call and followup email. Mr. Deal offered four significant ways the DMV would consider getting the message out on idling.
1. Idle-Free VT informational flyers/brochures and/or posters, distributed to each DMV office.
2. Later this year, once a DMV web site redesign is completed, there can be a link--possibly from the DMV emissions area--to Idle-Free VT.
3. January 2009: DMV is also redesigning their incoming telephone information line due to go on-line in January. They will consider including a 30-45 second message about idling in the telephone waiting queue.
4. Later 2009: The possibility of a message about idling on DMV plate envelopes in the future (after use of the Share the Road envelopes).
JUNE 10: MORRISTOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT (LAMOILLE COUNTY) ADOPTS IDLING POLICY FOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN SCHOOL BUSES
David Polow of Hyde Park, Idle-Free VT Lamoille County Coordinator and advisor to the campaign, has worked to get an idling policy for Morristown School District, long before the 2007 enactment of Vermont's school bus law. Dave took advantage of the provision in this law that allows school districts to adopt a policy that limits idling for vehicles other than school buses on school property (parents, faculty, delivery vehicles, etc.) to ultimately prevail. Idle-Free VT strongly urges individuals to actively encourage their school districts to adopt this model policy.
MAY 20: IMPORTANT MEETING TO WIDEN VERMONT IDLE-FREE EFFORT
On May 20 at University of Vermont's Farrell Hall, a meeting that could be a big step forward in the Vermont idle-free movement took place. The meeting was organized by Karen Glitman, of the UVM Transportation Research Center. In this capacity, she is coordinator of the Vermont Clean Cities Coalition whose commitment is advancing "the economic, environmental and energy security of the U.S." through cutting back on "petroleum consumption in the transportation sector." Ms. Glitman called this meeting to brainstorm ways to move the idle-free movement forward. She invited Richard Valentinetti, Director of the Air Pollution Control Division of the VT Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT, and by way of phone conferencing, Edward F. Miller, Senior Vice-President for Public Policy of the American Lung Association (ALA) of New England and Executive Director of the ALA of Maine, Debbie Andrews, Manager of Health Promotions of the ALA of Maine, and Rebecca Ryan, Director of Health Promotion and Public Policy of the ALA of Vermont.
The discussion centered around forming a coalition among the organizations named above (and possibly others) to run a funded Vermont idling education campaign. It was agreed that such a campaign would include public service announcements, some print media--an ad agency would be retained for this purpose--and no-idle signage. Ed Miller spoke about the ALA of New England's impending announcement of a new campaign that places an emphasis on outdoor air pollution from sources of transportation. Tackling unnecessary vehicle idling will be a component of this larger agenda. Rebecca Ryan, in her capacity with the ALA in Vermont was excited about carrying forth a commitment to the idling issue in Vermont. Karen Glitman, Richard Valentinetti and Ed Miller mentioned grant sources that would likely be available for such a campaign. Everyone agreed that $4-a-gallon gas and the increased awareness of carbon emissions that cause global warming have joined with the ongoing air quality issue to place idling in a new light: a low-hanging fruit way to deal with these concerns.
Based on the feedback from this meeting, Karen Glitman agreed to start the ball rolling on creating a funded Vermont idling education campaign!
(NOTE: As this funded campaign goes forward, updates will appear on the Idle-Free VT website, perhaps on a page of its own.)
MAY 19: NATIONAL SKI AREA ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE: LETTER TO THE EDITOR "NO IDLING--Avid Skier Urges Ski Resorts to Adopt Policies to Curb Wasteful Emissions"
Tom Piper of So. Burlington, an Idle-Free VT advisor, had a special letter to the editor published in a recent issue of the NSAA Journal. First Tom tells the story of the typical ski resort parking lot scenario: a number of skier donning their gear but still allowing their cars or SUVs to idle before heading to the slopes. He points to the inconsistancy of resorts having Sustainable Slopes education yet allowing guests to leave engines running. He goes on to challenges ski resorts to adopt idling policies that would curb idling by educating both guests and employees.
APRIL: INTERVIEW WITH WAYNE MICHAUD, DIRECTOR OF IDLE-FREE VT FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF VERMONT RESEARCH PROJECT
CCV student Kristi K. Ameden conducted an email interview with Wayne Michaud about the Idle-Free VT campaign and idling in general.
MARCH/APRIL ISSUE: LIVIN' MAGAZINE: "CAR IDLING DEBATED"
Livin' (The Vermont Way) Magazine is a four color glossy bimonthly publication out of Colchester. The editor invited Wayne Michaud of Idle-Free VT and Mitch Smith, a freelance writer, to present differing viewpoints on vehicle idling in their ongoing "Town Meeting" debate series.
MARCH 27: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "BUS OPERATOR CHALLENGES BUS IDLING RULES"
The general manager of a school bus transit company in Milton, VT unsuccessfully challenged Vermont's school bus idling law in a session with the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules. The basis of his complaint was that buses needed more than the five minute idling limit (with exceptions) to warm up due to supposed mechanical and safety reasons.
MARCH 27: STOWE REPORTER EDITORIAL: "CUT THE IGNITION'
The Stowe Reporter published an outstanding editorial that brings together all the advantages of avoiding wasteful idling including our health, reduced carbon emissions, less fuel waste that not only saves us money as individuals, but as a nation enhances our security by being less reliant on dubious friends in the Middle East and Venezuela, and the advantages to business and recreational interests in touting Stowe as a green communtiy.
MARCH 27: STOWE REPORTER: "ILDING CARS TARGET OF STOWE EFFORT'
The Stowe Energy and Climate Action Network, a group of 15-20 people, in one of several initiatives, is educating members of the Stowe community to shut off their vehicle engines when parked. They are distributing pink notices (placing under windshield wipers of cars idling while parked) that say, "THANK YOU FOR NOT IDLING WHEN PARKED" along with a few bulleted points.
JANUARY 23: LETTERS TO LAW ENFORCEMENT RE: VERMONT'S UNATTENDED MOTOR VEHICLES LAW
David Polow of Hyde Park, Idle-Free VT Lamoille County Coordinator and advisor to the campaign, wrote letters to every Vermont sheriff's dept. and most local law enforcement agencies concerning the lack of enforcing Vermont's unattended motor vehicles law. Anyone who allows their vehicle to idle unattended while going into a convenience store, post office, etc., is in violation of this law. Letter written to the Vermont State Police. Most law enforcement agencies did not respond. A represenative of the Vermont State Police did respond. He was sympathetic to the concerns but stated that in general, higher priorites prevented them from enforcement. A Burlington police representative also responded, claiming that they do enforce this law occasionally as well as the city's idling ordinance. It is hoped that awareness was raised in the law enforcement sector.
JANUARY 11: NO-IDLE TOWN MEETING ARTICLE PETITIONS
Robert Walker of the Sustainable Energy Resource Group (SERG) notified Town Energy Committee Organizers of a town meeting article petition to be placed on the town warning that is being circulated by the Thetford Energy Committee calling on the town to pass a no-idling resolution (not an ordinance, but that could later lead to signs posted in town and a policy for town vehicles). He suggested that they could feel free to adopt this for their own town. With a deadline approx. 40 days before town meeting and the need to get 5% of voter checklist signatures, time was short to achieve much. But this is the first step for what can be a great local awareness raising tool for 2009 town meetings. Kudos to Bob for this idea. A sample petition. See the LOCAL EFFORTS page for carrying this initiative forward for 2009 town meetings.
2007
DECEMBER 28-30 and BEYOND: "PETESTOCK": IDLE-FREE VT CARD TABLE DISPLAY
Pete Sutherland is a musician, composer and multi-instrumentalist (and more) with the Vermont folk-influenced repertory company, Roots. He and friends perform three pre-New Year's concerts known as "Petestock" in Norwich, Montpelier and Vergennes. Pete is keen on an educational component of the idling issue for his folk crowd and is featuring a card table type display of Idle-Free VT materials (brochures, info cards, bumper stickers and a small poster display) as part of an ongoing tour.
DECEMBER 12, 2007: JOURNAL OPINION: "SCHOOLS PREPARED FOR IDLING BAN"
Amanda Neubelt, a reporter for the Journal Opinion of Bradford writes a comprehensive piece about how Bradford area schools are adapting to the new Vermont school bus idling law, the cost, health and environmental benefits of the law, and how other Vermont schools are or have been addressing this issue. Also touched on is how diesel exhaust adversely affects students,
NOVEMBER 15: ADDISON INDEPENDENT: " MIDDLEBURY MULLS IDLE-FREE POLICY"
Coverage of the efforts of MAGWAC--Middlebury Area Global Warming Action Committee--as it seeks to lessen carbon emissions in Middlebury which certainly has its fair share of traffic congestion. A component of this initiative is to restrict vehicle idling. This is a great example of the steps that need to be taken to achieve success on a local basis. MAGWAC is seeking advice from Idle-Free VT and emulating other successful local efforts (Brattleboro, Lenox, MA) in order to avoid "reinventing the wheel".
NOVEMBER 15: MEDIA BLITZ:
With unnecessary idling increasing as winter encroaches, Wayne Michaud submits a timely op-ed featuring the essential facts of unnecessary idling to 10 Vermont newspapers in an effort to get the message out to as many people as possible. The ones who have published it: Burlington Free Press, Rutland Herald, and Addison Independent
NOVEMBER: VERMONT BUSINESS MAGAZINE:
Thanks to a donation to the Idle-Free VT campaign, an ad is placed in the November issue of Vermont Business Magazine as part of Idle-Free VT's Business Idle-Free effort.
AUGUST 28: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: " AUTOMAKERS SHOULD ADOPT AUTO STOP-START"
This letter to the editor by Wayne Michaud describes the Auto-Stop-Start system for vehicles to make them idle-free. Currently utilized on some European models, this system allows vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines to automatically turn off at stoplights and restart when pressing the accelerator, just as hybrids do now. Readers are encouraged to contact Sen. Bernie Sanders to push automakers to adopt this system for U.S vehicles.
AUGUST 3: TIMES ARGUS COMMENTARY: " CURBING VEHICLE IDLING SAVES MONEY, HELPS AIR"
The Times Argus (Montpelier) publishes a commentary on idling submitted by Wayne Michaud. As part of the Idle-Free VT Business Idle-Free initiative, it emphasizes the concern of idling in the business community, both fleet operated businesses, and non-fleet businesses and institutions whose patrons tend to idle on the premises. It also points out the positive models of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters and Vermont State Employees Credit Union who have implemented idle-reduction policies.
JUNE 26: APPEARANCE ON VPR'S SWITCHBOARD: AUTO STOP-START SYSTEM
Vermont U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders is Vermont Public Radio's Switchboard program guest this evening. One of the featured discussions is the recently passed increased CAFE standard. Wayne Michaud calls in to talk about a related issue that touches on vehicle fuel efficiency, the Auto Stop-Start system. This technology allows most conventional vehicle engines to shut off and restart at traffic stops, much like hybrids. The resulting benefits of equipping vehicles with this system are pointed out: gas savings, lowered carbon emissions and health benefits. Wayne asks Bernie to work with Barbara Boxer, Environment Committee Chairman, to push automakers to adopt this system. Bernie is enthusiatic in his response. Wayne follows up with an email to Senator Sanders. At least two European car models are already equipped with the Auto Stop-Start system.
JUNE 21: ADDISON INDEPENDENT: STORY ABOUT THE ENACTMENT OF ACT 48
As a result of a statewide press release about Vermont enacting a school bus idling law, Cyrus Levesque, a Staff Writer for the Addison Independent interviews Wayne Michaud and Sen. Claire Ayer (who sponsored the legislation) for a story that features Vermont's recently enacted law, and some of the individuals and organizations involved in its passage. He also provides background on the Idle-Free VT campaign.
JUNE 18: "MY TURN" OP-ED IN BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: " AVOID SUMMERTIME IDLING; IT'S THE LAW"
The Burlington Free Press publishes a "My Turn" on idling submitted by Wayne Michaud.
JUNE 7: "DEERFIELD VALLEY NEWS: STORY ABOUT THE ENACTMENT OF ACT 48
As a result of a statewide press release about Vermont enacting a school bus idling law, Mke Eldred, Senior Staff Reporter for the Deerfield Valley News, a West Dover based weekly publication, interviews Wayne Michaud and writes a story about the just enacted law, along with some background on the Idle-Free VT campaign.
MAY 30: BUSINESS IDLE-FREE LAUNCHED
Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT director visits David Polow, Idle-Free VT advisor of Hyde Park to launch the Business Idle-Free campaign. Wayne signs more than two hundred letters that are then mailed to Vermont businesses that operate fleets, and other businesses and institutions whose patrons use their vehicles in the course of being served by the businesses. A big "thank you" to David who funded the printing and mailing of these letters and to his daughter, Hannah, who volunteered many hours organizing and drafting the letters. A statewide press release is sent on June 1. Also involved in this campaign are Tom Piper and Jim Flint, Idle-Free VT advisors, who are offering advice and will assist in follow up.
MAY 26: (REPORT EXCERPTED FROM) BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "GOVERNOR JOINS STUDENTS IN JERICHO TO SIGN BUS IDLING LAW"
In a signing ceremony at Browns River Middle School in Jericho, whose student testimony in support of school bus idling legislation was so instrumental, Governor Jim Douglas signs S.13 into law. It is now called ACT 48--An Act Relating to the Idling of Motor Vehicle Engines on School Property.
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MAY 9: VTRANS ENERGY WORKSHOP NATIONAL LIFE BUILDING, MONTPELIER
Gina Campoli, Environmental Policy Manager of the Vermont Dept. of Transportation (VTrans) invites Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT director, to participate in the annual energy workshop for VTrans employees from around the state who are involved in the agency's energy conservation efforts. Included is a roundtable discussion on "Idling - Myths and Truths" with Wayne joining Ken Valentine, VTrans fleet director, and David Love of the ANR's Air Quality Division. Wayne gives a presentation of "Idling 101" while Ken and David discuss the more technical aspects of diesel idling. It is an informative give and take with the general consensus that more could be done to reduce idling in the VTrans fleet.
MAY 7: BURLINGTON SAYS, "DON'T IDLE HERE" by Courtney Lamdin
Courtney Lamdin, a Journalism major at St. Michael's College, submits her final journalism project about Burlington's No-Idle campaign. It is a well-crafted, thorough piece, compiled through interviews, on vehicle idling in Burlington. It addresses the dilemma, activism--featuring the work of the Burlington Legacy Project, and the slow steps toward awareness and solutions.
APRIL 25: SEVEN DAYS: "NO IDLING MATTER"
Seven Days publishes a letter to the editor submitted by Jim Flint, Idle-Free VT advisor, as a response to Seven Days columnist Peter Freyne's belittling of the harm of idling as Burlington announced a no-idle campaign.
APRIL 20: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "STUDENTS CHEER HOUSE VOTE ON BUS IDLING BAN"
The students from the Browns River Middle School in Jericho are at the Statehouse again, this time to see to it that the S.13 school bus idling bill passes in its amended (stronger language) form in a full House floor session with two readings and debate.
APRIL 18: "MY TURN" OP-ED IN BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "NO GOOD REASON TO LET VEHICLES IDLE"
The Burlington Free Press publishes another "My Turn" on idling submitted by Wayne Michaud. In a continuing effort to raise awareness, it is pointed out that idling wastes fuel, causes engine component damage, is against the law (Vermont's unattended motor vehicle law), affects our health and affects our planet (global climate change).
APRIL 17: BRATTLEBORO SELECTBOARD UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES NO-IDLING RESOLUTION (two page pdf)
Thanks to the students from the Compass School of Westminster Station (Windham County), with support from Paul Cameron, executive director of Brattleboro Climate Protection and Tim Stevenson, Post Oil Solutions, Brattleboro, the Brattleboro Selectboard unanimously approves a no-idling resolution. Although not an ordinance and therefore non-binding, this is an important educational component for Brattleboro. Here is a writeup in the Bratteboro Reformer: "Board: Turn off engines"
APRIL 14: STEP IT UP NATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION--MIDDLEBURY EVENT
In just one of over 1,400 locations in all 50 states, 350 climate activists gather on the Middlebury green with drumming; a walk over the footbridge for a big group photo; informational environmental faire with music, speakers, petitions, information (including Idle-Free VT), kids activities, and ways to reduce personal carbon footprints. The Student Weekly of Middlebury College covered the event which included a write-up on idling and the Idle-Free VT campaign.
APRIL 10: WPTZ CHANNEL 5 NEWS--REPORT ON IDLING
WPTZ Channel 5 News at 5:00 has a report on school bus idling and features an interview in Bristol with Wayne Michaud, Director of Idle-Free VT with a 20 second segment about the negative impacts of idling (fuel waste, needless engine wear-and-tear, health effects and impact on global climate change).
APRIL 10: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "BURLINGTON ANNOUNCES NO-IDLING CAMPAIGN"
In a news conference in front of City Hall, Mayor Bob Kiss, Police Chief Tom Tremblay and other city department heads urge residents to join public employees in creating "an idle-free Burlington", amid the rising public concern over greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
APRIL 6: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "STUDENTS HONORED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EFFORTS"
Students from the Browns River Middle School in Jericho, who in February 2007 testified before the House Natural Resource and Energy Committee for school bus idling restrictions, are recognized for their efforts in sustainability by the Environmental Protection Agency who announce funding for the installation of advanced pollution control equipment on school buses.
APRIL 2: IDLE-FREE VT RADIO PSAS ON WLVB
Thanks to arrangements by David Polow, Idle-Free VT Lamoille County Advisor, Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT Director voices two one minute public service announcements about idling at the studio of WLVB Vermont Country 93.9FM in Morrisville. An additional psa is to be voiced by ACT race car driver Eric Williams about engine component damage caused by idling. All psas are to be broadcast during Boston Red Sox baseball games. These psas may also be distributed and broadcast on other radio stations.
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Hi, this is Wayne Michaud of Idle-Free VT. Here's something worth thinking about. When it comes to making a stop at a convenience store or post office, leaving a vehicle idling while going inside is a harmful and wasteful practice. How about turning off the engine for that three to 10 minute wait? Don't worry, in winter it'll stay warm. And in summer, rather than letting it run with the air conditioning on, how about just opening the windows instead? By avoiding the harm and waste caused by unnecessary idling we'll improve our health, keep exhaust emissions out of the atmosphere, save fuel, and avoid needless engine wear-and-tear. So let's get into the habit of shutting off our vehicles when parked. To learn more ways to reduce idling, visit www dot idle free vt dot org. |
MARCH 20: CHAMPLAIN VALLEY AGENCY ON AGING (CVAA), Winooski
Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT Director joins with CVAA's Mary West, Assistant Nutrition Director and Jean Markey-Duncan, Nutrition Program Assistant to raise awareness about idling in the CVAA Meals On Wheels program. Idle-Free VT brochures are being circulated by the Meals On Wheels coordinators to make the wonderful volunteers aware of idling in the course of meal delivery.
MARCH 9: BRATTLEBORO REFORMER: "STUDENTS TURNED OFF BY IDLING CARS"
Concerned about sustainability, global warming and health, students, from the Compass School of Westminster Station (Windham County)--with support from Tim Stevenson, Post Oil Solutions, Brattleboro and Paul Cameron, executive director of Brattleboro Climate Protection--are raising awareness of idling in the Brattleboro area. They are gathering petition signatures to be presented to the Brattleboro Selectboard to consider an ordinance to restrict idling. They have also created radio spots about idling that are airing on local stations.
FEBRUARY 28: LETTER FROM GOVERNOR JIM DOUGLAS
Governor Jim Douglas replies to a letter from Wayne Michaud, Idle-Free VT Director and indicates that climate change is a high priority in his administration and will be working closely with legislative leaders for solutions to this challenge. He states his awareness of the idling bills that have been introduced in the legislature and the progress thus far of S.13. Gov. Douglas concludes by stating that he sees this bill as a positive step in addressing climate change and will watch its progress with interest.
FEBRUARY 27: BENNINGTON BANNER "SUPPORT IDLE-FREE CAMPAIGN"
The Bennington Banner publishes a letter to the editor that is an edited version of an open letter to Governor Douglas. It encourages the Governor to include idling legislation and education as part of his administration's growing commitment to the climate change issue.
FEBRUARY 9: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS : "STUDENTS DEMAND BUS IDLING LAW"
CHANNEL 3 WCAX TV NEWS: "STUDENTS TAKE IDEA TO STATE HOUSE"
On February 8, seven students from the Browns River Middle School of Jericho testify at the Statehouse for H.58: school bus idling law. Their passionate and knowledgeable testimony make quite an impression on the legislators, the news media, and even those in opposition of the law. Coverage also appears in Associated Press feeds in the Bratteboro Reformer, Times Argus, and even the Boston Globe.
FEBRUARY 7: MEETING WITH MONTPELIER MAYOR
Jim Flint, Idle-Free VT advisor, meet with Montpelier Mayor Mary Hooper, together with their Planning Dept. head and Cheryl King Fisher of the New England Grassroots Environment Fund (NEGEF). They are very interested in a city-wide No-Idling Campaign. Deb Sachs of the Alliance for Climate Action and the 10% Challenge met with the same group on Feb. 6.
JANUARY 23: VPIRG STATEWIDE GLOBAL WARMING AWARENESS CAMPAIGN--MIDDLEBURY MEETING-IDLE-FREE VT COSPONSOR
Before an audience of 17 at the Middlebury Unitarian Universalist Society, VPIRG kicks off a statewide campaign on global warming, presenting its problems and how Vermont can achieve some solutions. Idle-Free VT is invited as a cosponsor of the Middlebury event. Wayne Michaud speaks about idling in general and its impact on global warming with the simple solution of getting people to shut off their engines when not in traffic.
JANUARY 12: BURLINGTON FREE PRESS OPINION PAGE
Thanks to long time Burlington idling activist and Idle-Free VT advisor Jim Flint, and the Free Press editorial staff, the idling issue dominates today's Free Press Opinion page like never before with two idling pieces: "No time for idling" and "Getting busy on the idling issue"! In additon, Dave Polow of Hyde Park and Idle-Free VT Lamoille County coordinator, has a letter to the editor about idling. This is exactly what is needed to not only raise awareness of idling with the general public, but to elevate the status of this issue, which will help get a law enacted.
JANUARY 2: APPEARANCE ON VPR'S SWITCHBOARD
Wayne Michaud emphasizes the part idling plays in the greenhouse gas emissions picture and that legislators need to enact an idle-reduction law, in a call-in to Vermont Public Radio's Switchboard program this evening: The Upcoming Legislative Session.
2006
END OF 2006: IDLE-FREE VT WEBSITE VISITS: 2400+
Since it's inception in July, Idle-Free VT's website has had in excess of 2400 visits, with increased traffic in each month.
DECEMBER 8: "MY TURN" OP-ED IN BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "ANTI-IDLING LAW WOULD HELP STATE"
The Burlington Free Press publishes a second "My Turn" on idling submitted by Wayne Michaud. While again educating people on idling and how it relates to the larger issue of air quality, an emphasis is placed on legislative action as Senate and House idling bills are being resubmitted in the 2007 session. A sidebar question was added prompting readers to submit their opinions of a Vermont state idle-restriction law: "What is your experience? How would an anti-idling law hurt or benefit you as a traveler? Let us know at letters@bfp.burlingtonfreepress.com."
DECEMBER 6: RUTLAND HERALD COMMENTARY: "IDLING CAR IS HARMFUL, WASTEFUL"
The Rutland Herald publishes a commentary by Wayne Michaud that focuses on winter idling in particular. The 30 second cold weather warm up procedure is stated in detail. Readers with doubts are encouraged to search the Natural Resources Canada Idle-Free Zone web site for the myths and realities of idling.
OCTOBER 17: IDLE-FREE VT RADIO PSAS ON WDEV AND WLVB
Thanks to David Polow, Idle-Free VT Lamoille County coordinator, and Roger Hill of WDEV Radio Vermont 550AM and 96.1FM, two 30 second Public Service Announcements that mention the Idle-Free VT campaign and the problems of unnecessary idling, are now airing to thousands of Vermonters! These PSAs also being aired on WLBV Vermont Country 93.9FM.
SEPTEMBER 18: AMERICAN LUNG ASSOC. OF VT ADVOCACY COMMITTEE DISCUSSION OF 2007 PUBLIC POLICY AGENDA
Robert Clifford Uerz, M. Ed., Contract Lobbyist for ALA VT invites Wayne Michaud to become an ALA VT Advocacy Committee member and to participate in a conference call discussion with the advocacy committee to adopt recommendations for the ALA-VT Board to consider. Also participating are Michelle Carner, Chair, Advocacy Comm., Kent Booraem, ALA-VT Board Member, and Ellen Ceppetelli, RNC, MS, ALA-VT Board Member (and National ALA Secretary). Items discussed are Tobacco (control efforts, settlement fund use, and elimination of smoking in healthcare facilities), and Air Pollution (wood burning furnace emissions, supporting idling legislation and aggressive support to prevent the International Paper test tire burn).
UPDATE: In early December, the ALA-VT Board adopts all of the recommendations.
SEPTEMBER 12: "MY TURN" OP-ED IN BURLINGTON FREE PRESS: "LET'S KICK THE IDLING HABIT"
The Burlington Free Press publishes an op-ed submitted by Wayne Michaud as a response to a Free Press editorial advocating solutions to auto emissions. The response lauds these goals, but suggests that one way to get lower emissions that not only is cost-free, but can actually save money, is to avoid unnecessary idling. Problems and solutions for idling are featured. The Idle-Free VT campaign and petition drive (with need of volunteers) is mentioned in the bio.
AUGUST 19: PRESS RELEASE SENT
A press release about the Idle-Free VT campaign and petition drive is sent to 33 state media outlets including newspapers, the Vermont Associated Press bureau, and Vermont Public Radio.
JULY 13: APPEARANCE ON VPR'S SWITCHBOARD
In the first media appearance for Idle-Free VT, campaign coordinator Wayne Michaud briefly introduces the campaign and its goals in a call-in to Vermont Public Radio's Switchboard program this evening: Air Quality in Vermont.
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