In development - just adding links and imagining what this page might be - beyond a bunch of bookmarks for my own use!

The word democracy comes from the Greek words ‘demos’, meaning people, and ‘Kratos’ meaning power or rule, and translates to “rule by the people.”  (Source) But in our modern world corporate interests and money very often speak louder than our voices (Opinion!), and that's what this page is about.

I first saw this quote in an April '24 Iowa Learning Farms Webinar, and I have to agree:

"I used to think the top global environmental problems were biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and climate change. I thought that with 30 years of good science we could address these problems. But I was wrong. The top environmental problems are selfishness, greed and apathy, and to deal with these we need a spiritual and cultural transformation, and we scientists don't know how to do that" (Gus Speth)

Also this in a Substack Post by former state Representative Chuck Isenhart:
Where can you start if you want more parks and trails, clean water, clean air, soil health, wildlife? Stop being a wallflower. Pick up your smart phone and connect with those elected officials who might be willing to dance with you now. Don’t wait for threatening legislation to drop and then jump out of your skin.

And this From the Desk Senator Art Staed, March 7, 2025:

Gotta have Trust. It’s clear that Iowans deeply value their natural resources and outdoor recreational spaces, as demonstrated by the overwhelming opposition to the Defund the Natural Resources & Outdoor Recreational Trust Fund bill. After receiving hundreds of emails from concerned citizens, lawmakers took notice, and the pressure led to Republicans ultimately pulling SJR6. This victory highlights the power of civic engagement and public advocacy, proving that when communities come together to protect what matters most, real change can happen. Ensuring the preservation of Iowa’s natural landscapes remains a priority, and continued vigilance will be essential in safeguarding these important resources for future generations. I hope you’ll continue to pressure the legislature now to actually fund the Trust – promised to voters back in 2010.

If we're not happy with the way things are or the direction they're going,  we need to speak up!