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Cuomo speech draws anti-fracking protesters
(Photo by Sam Sebren.)[/caption]
More than 2,000 anti-fracking protesters from across New York gathered in the corridor of Empire State Plaza before, during and after the 2014 State of the State Address, Wed., Jan. 8. The demonstrators called for a statewide ban on the controversial hydraulic fracturing process. For the third year in a row, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo did not mention hydrofracking in his speech. The assembled environmentalists stretched for a quarter of a mile chanting, with signs and information disputing safety claims, emphasizing the health and environmental risks of fracking. No apparent pro-frackers appeared at this year's event. The rally was organized by dozens of groups statewide, including New Yorkers Against Fracking, Food and Water Watch, The Sierra Club and Catskill Mountainkeeper. PLAY rally collage (2:45).
-- Sam Sebren
Other audio:
Dr. Sandra Steingraber of Concerned Health Professionals of New York PLAY (4:26)
Emily Bishop, from Syracuse, of New Yorkers Against Fracking and The Two Row Wampum Renewal Campaign PLAY (2:44). Speaks about a fracking ban and honoring the Two Row Wampum Treaty.
Walter Hang of Toxics Targeting PLAY (4:36). Describes the Health Review issue.
Daniel Morrissey of Honest Weight Food Co-op PLAY (7:30). About fracked oil coming to Albany
Phil Markham, a/k/a "Robber Barron Trillionaire" PLAY (2:18 ). Satirical take on the use of fracking brine.
Bhavani Jaroff, chef, food activist and founder of ieatgreen from Long Island PLAY (2:05). How contaminated water could affect Long Island.
Ruth Adams, grandmother from West Milford, N.J. PLAY (:36). About proposal to allow frack waste from Pennsylvania to be dumped in New Jersey.
Dave Ritchie, SUNY professor from Ithaca PLAY (1:31). How fracking could destroy the Finger Lakes of New York.
Leah Grady Sayvetz, from Ithaca PLAY (1:16). Talks about leases in Ithaca.
Leigh Strimbeck, actor/director from Valatie PLAY (2:56).
Interviewed by Sam Sebren.