More then a glimpse into the life of Barbara George, this book tells the story of how the counter-culture and anti-war movements of the 1960's created in Barbara a life long dedication to accomplish some of the best ideals of that era. As an artist, environmentalist and writer, Barbara played a role in some of the most important issues of her time. She worked to educate about, engaged in action against, and played a role in the defeat of nuclear power plants, nuclear waste dumps and military bases; she helped set the stage to successfully convert military facilities to civilian uses. Barbara created Women's Energy Matters, a non-profit organization that helped free eleven communities from the grip of greedy utilities. Because of work Barbara did in the 1990's California utilities are today required to generate enough electricity from clean, safe, renewable energy to power the homes of many thousands of people. And a modified version of the California standard is slowly increasing the use of clean, safe, renewable energy across the nation. The next time you learn the percentage of clean, safe, renewable energy has increased, or the next time you amazed at the fuel efficiency of the latest hybrid car, smile and think of Barbara. She played a small role in bringing that about.
About the Author: Elliot Cohen was a close friend of Barbara George for over thirty years. He wrote this book so everyone will become aware of and remember her. In the 1980's Elliot was participated in grass roots anti-nuclear activism. As a designated "party" to the New York State Master Energy Planning process Elliot advocated against nuclear power and coal, and urged increased conservation and the use of clean, safe, renewable energy. As an Aide for New York City Council Member Ruth Messinger he was involved in policy work on a wide variety of environmental and consumer protection issues. Elliot practiced law from 1989 until 1997, when he relocated to California. There he organized a coalition effort to protest the launch of a space craft carrying 72 tons of plutonium, and became involved in efforts to enforce the Nuclear Free Berkeley Act. Elliot was repeatedly appointed to the City of Berkeley Peace and Justice Commission, drafted the 2002 City Council redistricting plan and helped manage a friends campaign for City Council. Elliot's interest include politics, environmental issues, the growing threat to our constitutional rights, as well as writing, painting and socially responsible investing.