Clippings from October 13th – October 14th

Here are some blog posts, article and links that you may have missed.

• The Energy from Biomass and Waste Conference starts today in Pittsburgh – only $20 to attend – "energy from biomass and waste" can make a significant contribution to oil-independence and climate protection with clean power, heat, and vehicle fuels. The technology opens up new earning potentials and markets (domestic & international) for the waste management & power generation industry, as well as for new market players such as the agricultural sector. With the EBW Exposition & Conference we have created the premier North American showcase and educational forum for this growth business.
• Trouble brewing at Starbucks – The Starbucks Coffee Co. is in the process of an extreme revamping of its workforce policies according to company documents obtained by the Starbucks Workers Union of the Industrial Workers of the World. The initiative, dubbed "Optimal Scheduling", will require employees to make themselves available to work essentially around the clock to obtain so-called full-time status. Even for workers able to make the extraordinary sacrifice to obtain "full-time" status, no work hours are guaranteed- identical to Starbucks' current system of part-time status for all retail hourly workers. In addition, Starbucks will lay off workers who cannot meet minimum availability requirements. As baristas learn of the new program, discontent is rising.
• Prez Debate Watch Party with PA League of Young Voters – Wed. at the Shadow Lounge -