Taking the Green Highway

Renewable energy and alternative fuels are hot topics these days. As part of the Florida Renewable Energy Technologies Grant Program, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently awarded eight organizations grant funding totaling $12.5 million to research and implement ways to conserve energy and reduce Florida’s greenhouse gas emissions. From the use of alternative heating and lighting using energy from the sun and wind -- to the use of biodiesel and ethanol to power cars, trucks, SUVs and farming equipment, each will help Florida take the steps necessary toward becoming less dependent on outside fuel sources.

In Tallahassee, one DEP family is reaping the economical benefits of switching from gas fuel in addition to helping the environment. Last month marked one year that Tom and Noreen Biernacki, both DEP employees, have been driving their 100% biodiesel fueled 1999 Volkswagen Jetta on its round-trip, 39 mile journey from their home in Jefferson County to their offices in Tallahassee. ...more

Last week, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and local law enforcement partners launched the Florida Offender Alert System. The system allows citizens to sign up to receive e-mail alerts when a registered sexual offender or predator moves to their neighborhood or another specified address. The service is free and simple. To sign up, visit www.flsexoffender.net.