Our Mission

To explore, enjoy and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote the responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; to educate and enlist humanity; to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment and to use all lawful means to carry out these objectives.

Political Planning Committee

Fall, 2008 - Political Committee News

In July and the early part of August, the Political Committee interviewed four of the candidates for County Commissioner. We appreciate Nancy Young, James Ziglar, David Plyler and John Gladman returning the questionnaire that was sent to all candidates, and for finding the time to meet with members of the Political Committee. The Political Committee has decided not to recommend endorsement in this race. We encourage all members, however, to learn more about these candidates and their views on the environment in order to make informed decisions at the ballot box. Thanks to all of the Foothills volunteers who participated in the endorsement process.

The State chapter endorsed the following people prior to the primary who will now run in the general election:

State-wide races:
State Treasurer Janet Cowell

Covering the six counties of the Foothills Group:
State Senate District 32 Linda Garrou
State House District 72 Larry Womble
State House District 71 Earline Parmon

How Green Are Your Candidates?

Several state and national environmental organizations issue legislative scorecards which evaluate one facet of the candidates’ voting records. Each organization selects issues it considers important and then indicates whether the candidates cast votes that were pro-environment. Although the scorecards are most helpful with evaluating incumbents, they can be used to help voters develop questions for new candidates that focus on major environmental concerns.

Scorecards from the League of Conservation Voters (http://www.lcv.org) and the National Sierra Club focus on Senate and House members and their votes. The scorecard of the Conservation Council of NC (http://www.conservationcouncilnc.org/) covers state issues and legislators. The complete scorecards will be available for viewing at fall Sierra Club activities. Here is the final LCV tally for 2007 votes:

Senate:
Of 15 critical environmental votes, Elizabeth Dole voted with the environment on one [7%], against the environment on 12, and absent on 2.
Of 15 critical environmental votes, John McCain voted with the environment on 0%; was absent on all 15.
Of 15 critical environmental votes, Barak Obama voted with the environment on 10 [67%], against the environment on one, and absent on 4.

House:
Of 20 critical environmental votes, Foxx [NC5th] voted with the environment on 2 [10%], against the environment on 18, and absent on 0.
Of 20 critical environmental votes, Watt [NC12th] voted with the environment on 19 [95%], against the environment on 1 and absent on 0.

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The Political Planning Committee of the Foothills Group of the Sierra Club is made up of both seasoned and new members who are interested in ensuring that truly “green” candidates running for public office are endorsed by the Sierra Club. In addition, some members meet with elected officials to ensure they are up to speed on issues of importance to the Sierra Club, as well as to find out how we can support those officials who are working toward a more environmentally-friendly community. There are a variety of jobs to be done so please contact Laura Phail or David Mickey to find out how you can become involved.

Co-Chairs:
Laura Phail (336) 723-2345 and David Mickey (336) 769-0955