Questions Ceiling Fan Rule

On page A4 of the Aug. 30-Sept. 5 issue of The Epoch Times, there is an article regarding “Biden Admin Proposes New Rules on Ceiling Fans.” The article also covers other items including portable gas generators. Regarding ceiling fans, the Dept. of Energy (DOE) wants citizens to pay for new fans that will save them up to $39.84 over the life span of the fan, which is listed as six to 10 years.

Now I do not know where the DOE gets its life span figure, but one (1) of my fans is 40-plus years old and the other two (2) are about 35 years old. All three fans show no signs of needing replacement. They are quiet and do not wobble. The one overhead right now has gotten the most use since I retired in 2002 and started working at home. The one in our bedroom gets a lot of summer time use, too. Barring any unexpected failures I do not plan on replacing any of them.

Regarding the portable generators: The DOE wants the carbon monoxide levels on “smaller” sets by 50% and “larger” ones by 95%. No definition of smaller and larger was listed. My previous generator set used an eight horsepower, 4-cycle engine that was fueled by gasoline. My new set is dual fueled and can run on propane or gasoline. Adding catalytic converters, fuel injection many other systems can cut down the CO emissions but at what costs? Also, what about the added weight? A portable can stop being portable very quickly with lots of added weight. And how much running time will be required? So far the electricity Armageddon has not occurred because our one nuclear plant is still in service and without much notice the state is running natural gas-fueled generators to keep us in electric power.

When our learned legislative superiors finally decide we must go 100% renewable, it will be the portable generators that keep our food from spoiling and the gas furnaces running. That is if we still have working gas furnaces.

Tom Suter
La Crescenta

Alternate Idea to Motorcade

I agree that we must “Remember – Honor – Respect” the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the U.S. (“Community Turns Out for Remember – Honor – Respect,” 9/14/23, p. 3).

Sincerely remembering, honoring and respecting means thoughtful and thorough examination and include acknowledging and taking responsibility for U.S. actions in response to 9/11.

Our all-out but not well thought-out “War on Terrorism” after 9/11 killed 4.5 million people (most not terrorists at all) and displaced another 65 million. The U.S. Congress’s overly broad presidential war powers authorizations in 2001 (Afghanistan) and 2002 (Iraq) are today seen as mistakes. Congressional Representative Adam Schiff, who voted for both, has reconsidered.

My hope is that any future local 9/11 commemorations are truly respectful and meaningful, and include broad community input in planning and participation. Perhaps an educational component to replace chanting by students missing school? Maybe local civic leaders could organize a program that is factual and non-partisan in lieu of a motorcade?

Roberta Medford
Montrose 

Disappointed with 9/11 Participation

To a history teacher at CVHS:

I wanted to take a moment to express my concerns and disappointment regarding a recent incident that occurred in your 11^th-grade history class on Monday. Specifically, it pertains to your decision to discourage your students from participating in the Remembrance Motorcade honoring the first responders of 9/11, coupled with the threat of extra homework as a consequence for those who wished to attend the event.

First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge your dedication as an educator and the critical role you play in shaping the minds of our youth. Teaching history is a noble profession, and I genuinely believe that you have the best interests of your students at heart. However, it is precisely because of your role as a history teacher that I find your decision particularly perplexing and disappointing.

History is not merely about dates, facts and figures; it is a living, breathing testament to the values and sacrifices that have shaped our nation. The events of Sept. 11, 2001 were not just a part of our past; they continue to resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of all Americans. It was a day that showcased the unparalleled courage and selflessness of our first responders – the very individuals who put their lives on the line to ensure the safety and security of our fellow citizens.

The motorcade honoring these heroes is not just a mere celebration; it is a testament to the spirit of unity, patriotism and gratitude that we as a nation hold dear. As a history teacher, you are uniquely positioned to instill in your students the importance of commemorating such significant events and the values that our great nation was built upon.

I believe that instilling patriotism and fostering an appreciation for those who serve our communities and our country should be a fundamental part of any history curriculum. It is disheartening that you chose not to support the participation of your students in an event that exemplifies these values and serves as a living history lesson in its own right.

I would like to request that you reconsider your stance on such events in the future. Our young people benefit greatly from opportunities to actively engage with history and show their support for the first responders who continue to make sacrifices every day. Encouraging their participation in such activities not only enhances their understanding of the past but also strengthens their sense of civic duty and pride in their nation.

I hope you will take this letter as a constructive reflection on the importance of supporting events that commemorate our history and honor the individuals who have contributed to the fabric of our society. It is my sincere hope that in the future, your classroom will become a place where students are encouraged to participate in events that instill in them a deep sense of patriotism and appreciation for the sacrifices made by our first responders.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I look forward to your response and hope that we can work together to provide our students with a more comprehensive and meaningful history education.

Kendall Hales, Former Student and Parent to Five Graduates
La Crescenta