University Research into Alternative Energy

Decades of tree and biomass research jointly conducted by Florida Statue University and Shell Energy have resulted in the planting of the largest single Energy Crop Plantation in the entire United States. This Plantation spans approximately 130 acres and is home to over 250,000 planted trees including cottonwoods (native to the area) and eucalyptus (which are non-invasive) along with various row crops such as soybeans. This organization of super trees was brought into being as a result of the University's joint research with other agencies including Shell, the US Department of Energy, the Common Purpose Institute, and groups of various individuals who are working to develop alternative energy sources (those not dependent on fossil fuels) for the future. This research is focused on the planting and processing of biomass energy supplies from fast-growing crops known as closed loop biomass or simply energy crops. The project seeks to develop power plants such as wood-pulp or wood-fiber providing plants; clean biogas to be used by industries; plants such as surgarcane which can be used for ethanol development; and crops such as soybeans for biodiesel fuel production. University involvement in alternative energy research is also going on at Penn State University. At Penn State, special research is focused on the development of hydrogen power as a practical alternative energy source. The researchers involved are convinced that mankind is moving toward a hydrogen-fueled economy due to the needs for us to reduce air pollution and find other sources of energy besides petroleum to power up the United States. Hydrogen energy burns clean and can be endlessly renewed, as it can be drawn from water and crop plants. Hydrogen power would thus be a sustainable energy resource to be found within the US' own infrastructure while the world's supply of (affordable) oil peaks and begins to decline. The University seeks to help with the commercial development of hydrogen powered fuel cells, which would be usable in place of or in tandem with combustion engines for all of our motor vehicles. When President Bush recently announced his alternative energy initiative, he determined that the government would develop five Sun Grant centers for concentrated research. Oregon State University has the honor of having been selected as one of these centers, and has been allocated government grants of $20 million for each of the next four years in order to carry out its mission. OSU will lead the way in researching alternative energy as it represents the interests of the Pacific Islands, the US' Pacific Territories, and nine western states. OSU President Edward Ray says, the research being conducted through OSUs Sun Grant center will contribute directly to our meeting President Bushs challenge for energy independence. Specific research into alternative energy being conducted at OSU by varios teams of scientists right now include a project to figure out how to efficiently convert such products as straw into a source of renewable biomass fuel, and another one aimed at studying how to efficiently convert wood fibers into liquid fuel.

The American Dream: Check out United States Honeymoon Destinations

Whether youre an American wanting to re-discover your own country, or a foreigner wanting to see the sights and sounds of the beautiful, red-striped USA and experience the ultimate American dream, a USA honeymoon with your loved one could prove to be one good way to a life of marital bliss. From Maine to Hawaii, from Alaska to Florida, you get to enjoy an assortment of activities surfing and swimming for the couple who like the waters, snowboarding and skiing for a winter honeymoon, rock climbing and hiking for the outdoor couple, windsurfing for the more adventurous type and many others you can choose from. Looking for some sun? Explore Florida on your honeymoon. Visit the Caladesi Island State Park and go traipsing in its white sand shores and the boat ride. The Blue Spring State Park in Florida offers fishing activities, scuba diving and swimming and a look at the Manatees. Theres also the Bok Sanctuary, popular for the singing Tower and the Coral Castle Gallery with the Three Bears Grotto. On the other hand, if youre looking for more action, you can put California as your honeymoon destination. Walk down the streets and take snapshots of the famous statues of Auburn, like the naked man wrestling with the chains, the coolie and the Amazon Archers. Explore folk art at the Salvation Mountain or go have your temperatures checked by the Baker Thermometer, the worlds largest thermometer. Of course, dont; ever forget to visit Hollywood and get a chance to get up close and personal with the Hollywood celebrities. Who knows the two of you may star in one of the movies being filmed there? For those whod like to go on the wilder side, go north with an Alaskan honeymoon. Go bear-sighting at the Anan Wildlife Observatory and at Pack Creek. Dont definitely miss the Alaskan Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum of History and Art for a glimpse of Alaskas culture and local history. Climb Mt. McKinley, the highest peak in the North American region at the Denali National Park and discover the local flora and fauna at the Alaska Sea Life Center, which, by the way, also houses many bird species and sea mammals. Other things to watch out for in your USA honeymoon destinations are the countrys string of national parks the Yellowstone National Park, famous for the throngs and the sparring bull elks, the Joshua Tree National Park with its yucca tree, and the Texass Guadalupe Mountains National Park for a winter, snow-filled honeymoon. Check out Chinatown and see a different culture in San Francisco. Dont forget to visit New Mexico and have a taste of their spicy, tasty Tacos and take photos of the adobe constructions. Go crazy over the sights and sounds of Las Vegas the casinos, the cabarets, the clubs. Of course check out local American delicacies like the American pie, go shopping at Fifth Avenue and walk holding hands at Central Park a natural refuge in the middle of the busy city. Whether its a spring or a winter honeymoon youre planning with your loved one, USA offers you more than just the sights, the sounds, the smell and the taste of American beauty. It offers variety, color, and the idyllic start to a future filled with marital bliss.

Why Tahiti is a Unique Honeymoon Destination

Getting married is the most awaited and romantic event in every person's life; and to some, it's a scary thing because you're going to be bonded with another individual for life. Both of you made a vow to share your love, happiness, and sadness together. Most couples are dreaming of a honeymoon spent in a beautiful place, but not all are lucky enough to fulfill such dream. One reason is due to budgetary constraints. But for most couples who can afford a romantic and unique honeymoon some place else, they must be careful in choosing their honeymoon destination and it would be best to follow ones instinct. If you want to spend unique honeymoon moments, no other place is better than Tahiti. Be sure to celebrate your relationship and life together in Tahiti's beautiful islands. The islands are tiny paradise, crowned with uneven peaks that soar magically to the ocean. You can also find islands that barely float above the waves. There are a few reasons why Tahiti is such a unique place to spend your honeymoon. Seclusion In these islands, you can find intimate resorts, quiet pure beaches, and peaceful villages that are definitely suited for the couples' 'alone time'. This is a very good place to spend your honeymoon away from prying eyes, work pressures, and other disturbances. Polynesian Spas You can experience rejuvenation and relaxation with these Polynesian spas nurtured by a tropical ambiance. The spas are luxurious and the couple can pamper themselves with the services offered in the spa. Over-water Bungalows The island also offers perfect rooms equipped with all needed amenities, and the services are like that of first-class hotels. Have a tranquil sleep over the lagoon waters in a thatched-roof room. Activities You're free to choose whether you do something or just relax under the sun's heat. Try to enjoy the lagoons while you're there by snorkeling, diving, and boating. If you want, you can try exploring the different islands through hiking, safaris, or shopping. People Share and embrace the warm welcome of Tahitian hosts. Their love for the Tahitian islands is reflected through their dances, music, and flowers. Honeymoon Cruises Romantic voyages are also available every week headed for Tahiti's islands. You can have a voyage in the South Pacific on board cruise ships, freighter passenger, and super yachts that travel amid Tahiti's islands. Couples now have a choice from the leading luxurious cruise lines that offer first class balcony cabins and meals exclusively designed for honeymooners. There is no other place like Tahiti where newly weds can enjoy the time of their life. You can find great deals on Tahiti honeymoon packages that costs as low as $1,279 to as high as $7, 545. There are certain travel agencies that offer these kinds of packages to honeymooners. Feel free to log on to their site and check out Tahiti's unique honeymoon packages and experience the greatest honeymoon moments that will only happen once in your life. Visit Tahiti and experience the feel of romance in this unique place. The world has recognized this place' beauty and is regarded as the center of romance in the whole universe. So dont be left behind; if you're a newly wed couple, or perhaps you've renewed your vows and want to have another honeymoon, this place can speak for itself. You will always want to go back to this magical and enchanting place.