HIGHLIGHTS OF 2009
1. New web site:
In January 2009, RCC initiated our new web site: www.RachelCarsonCouncil.org. During the past six months there have been over 41,000 visits to this website.
2. Public Speaking Engagements:
Nine presentations were made to local community groups, and government offices in the Washington, DC area including the U.S. Army Research Lab in Adelphi, Maryland, The National Science Foundation Headquarters in Virginia (both presentations were made by Drs. Diana Post and Michael Liddel), and The Special Library Association Annual Convention in Washington, DC. (where Dr. Post spoke about "Rachel Carson, Science and DDT: 47 Years After Silent Spring.") The powerpoint presentation from her talk is on www.RachelCarsonCouncil.org.
3. Open House 2009:
Held in April at the National Historic Landmark where Silent Spring was written, the event:"Spring of Awareness" was free to the public. It featured four guest speakers, organic refreshments, and activities for children. Judy Wicks, an outstanding green entrepreneur/owner of the highly successful White Dog Café in Philadelphia, described how her local business has supported organic growers, community farms, and other worthy endeavors. Roger Christie, the adopted son of Rachel Carson spoke of his life with Rachel and held informal conversations with attendees. Over eighty people attended the event.
4. Acceptance of a tribute on behalf of Rachel Carson:
RCC represented Rachel Carson at - The Extra Mile Induction Ceremony organized by the Points of Light Volunteer Pathway. RCC's Vice President, Martha Hayne Talbot and Board Member, Dr. Tjaart Schillhorn Van Veen attended the event. Rachel Carson was honored for acting on her own in writing Silent Spring and alerting the world to the threat of toxic pesticides.
5. Recognition of RCC by Mother Earth News:
RCC was mentioned favorably for our efforts to inform gardeners about "Killer Compost" and for sending a letter to the EPA urging action to help avoid a serious problem (see "Issue and Impacts-2009," #9 for details).
6. National Women's History Project recognized three women associated with RCC: The three women honored for "Taking the Lead to Save the Planet" - a project of the National Women's History Project were RCC President: Dr. Diana Post, former RCC Board Member: Roswitha Augusta, and RCC Board Member: Mary S. (Mimi) Cooper.
7. Development of a digital Compendium of Pesticide Information:
Dr. Michael Liddel has created a compilation on pesticide active ingredients, with two searchabledata bases and many more features.