EarthTalk answers: Do insulating paints work? And what does Obama think of “clean” coal?

Do you remember that Iraqi guy who threw his shoes at President Bush? Remember how he was lauded as a national hero? Well, now he’s going to prison.

Do you want to hear former U.S. President George W. Bush speak? Probably not. But Australian celebrity agent Max Markson thinks the people of Australia might. That’s why he’s planning to bring the 43rd president down under, and charge $650 a head and $6,500 per table, to hear W. talk.

Barack Obama promised change and it is going to come in a flurry, so this new daily feature will document the new substance of the United States of America. If you’re looking for analysis or style please visit psa.blastmagazine.com

• Executive order promises to close Guantanamo and CIA secret prisons within a year.

• Government salaries have been frozen if they’re over 100k and strict new ethics rules are now in effect.

• Obama tells Israel to open up Gaza borders.

• In what could be big trouble for Bush, Obama opens up public access to Presidential Records.

This is just the beginning…

He spoke of laying the groundwork for a productive and happy tomorrow, one where future generations don’t inherit the same worries we face today, to make sure they are able to harness the freedom that is rightfully theirs and to keep its flame lit as it passes from generation to generation.

The last weekend of Bush. Feels good doesn’t it?

The following is the full text of President George W. Bush’s final radio address to the nation before he leaves office next week.
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. For the last eight years, I have had the honor of speaking to the American people Saturday mornings through this radio address. In hundreds of broadcasts, I [...]

Israel’s attacks on Gaza strengthened Friday after bombs killed a top Hamas commander, African Free Press reports. The attacks, now entering their seventh day, have resulted in the deaths of at least 420 and more than 2000 injuries. The UN has said that nearly 25 per cent of the dead are civilians.

For the past couple of years (eight for me), Americans and people around the world have been waiting for the end of George W. Bush’s presidency. Sure he’s done some great things, like his groundbreaking work fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa, but for the most part, he was a huge bust.

This Iraqi journalist takes off both his shoes and whips them right at Bush during a press conference in Iraq. Before he hurled them, he yelled “this is a farewell kiss, you dog. This is from the widows, the orphans and those who were killed in Iraq.”

President Bush’s recent round of 14 presidential pardons brings his total up to 157.  
The outgoing president still has almost two more months in office, but barring anything unforeseen, it is likely that Bush will end  up as one of the stingiest presidents in recent history when it comes to giving out pardons. 
His predecessor, Bill Clinton, gave [...]

In a fitting end to what some call the worst presidency ever, George W. Bush has granted 14 pardons and two commutations to American felons.

Dear EarthTalk: I’m thinking about starting an environmental club in my middle school.  Can you give me some ideas about how to start?  Can you connect me with other school clubs? – Rosemary, Andover Township, NJ
Starting an environmental club at school is a great way to get students energized about taking [...]

While Americans hope President-elect Barack Obama can live up to almost two years of hype, citizens around the world are hoping some of that “change” spills out in their direction.

Rock/Pop
Universal
June 3, 2008

The working title of Gavin Rossdale’s first solo offering, “WANDERlust,” out June 3, should have been “Family Values 101.”
The last time Rossdale had a hit record, back when he was the lead singer of alterna-grunge British band Bush, the Internet was still a relatively new concept, MTV still played music videos and “the [...]