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Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Hikma Salhe in World History - Block - C on
Part I: This unit I learned about the Keystone Pipeline XL and the company that plans to extend this pipeline (TransCanada). This project already exists but they hope to extend it from North Dakota and spill out into the Gulf of Mexico. This project is very controversial because of the many good and bad things that come with it. While this project may boost the economy and create many new jobs, there is also a chance that it could leak and ruin out freshwater. Another thing we studied this unit is as to why the world is so unfair.

Part ||:
1) The Keystone Pipeline XL could create 20,00 jobs (http://keystone-xl.com/about/the-project/) {link can be used for numbers 3-5}
2) Only 2,000 jobs will be kept (http://350.org/)
3) Oil comes from Canada (no more "foreign oils")
4) Will carry 830,000 barrels of oil a day
5) Will cost $5.3 billion dollars 

Part III: 
  By the Wind

*On phone with her granddaughter. *

*Sighing* Hmph, I remember when I was young. You know, the good old days, where the hills and rivers were alive? Well maybe YOU don’t, but I do. My best friend was a duck. I know, I know, kind of stupid right? Every morning I would take cereal out of my own breakfast and save it for her. She’d come out of her resting spot and spend the entire day with me. One day, these big guys came knockin’ on our door. They started talking, talking about building houses and tall buildings around our way. Apparently, the entire neighborhood had signed this lease thing, saying they agree to this idea. Well, my father was so angry, I could see the veins in his neck popping out. The man left with his paper unsigned and a frown on his face. Two weeks later, I stood waiting for her, only to find out that those same men destroyed her home. They started building a huge apartment complex. It was then I realized how unfair this world was. Our ancestors were ridiculed and even now in this modern world we are seen as inferior.

Now, enough talk from me, what’s new in your life? A new man, huh? Well, he better be a looker and smart too! You make me proud to call myself your grandmother. You always did take after your mother, she was a good woman. I never had trouble raising her, even when her father was away. Yes I know you miss her, I miss her too.

*Tears swell in her eyes. She looks for a way to change the subject*

Tell me about that job you mentioned last time. You don’t want to talk about it? Why not? Come on, tell me, it can’t be that bad. It isn’t illegal or immoral right?

*Chuckles*

Then keep on talking. What is the company called again? TransCanada, and they’re building a pipeline that runs from Canada and spills into the Gulf of Mexico? Now, what kind of oil is being used in this project? If the crude oil is to spill into the water don’t they realize they are ruining what little is left of the fresh water we have!?

*Starts to yell with anger*

Don’t ‘freak out’, tell me this Anna, how is this benefiting to the country if we’re ruining the earth while doing it? We get what we give An. This earth is as much alive as you and I, if you were to give me poison I would die. That is what they are doing to the earth.No I am not overreacting. Goodbye Anna, I have to go.

*Hangs up phone and slams phone down in an angry manner*

‘Don’t overreact’. Don’t overreact?! This earth has been abused by us humans so much, yet still, she gives us shelter. Is it worth it? Is destroying a world worth a few years of economic growth?




    This Life

(Talking to wife) Wow, don’t you look tired sweetheart? (Hold her hand and helps her sit down) Waitressing and working at hotel must be draining. Why don’t you sit down and let me take care of that, I don’t need you to strain yourself even more darlin’. Do you want me to warm something up for you? No? You want a massage or something? No? How about--Oh. You don’t need my help?

(Gets up with his fists clenched tight.)

That’s all right, it’s not like anybody ever needs me anymore. No, no, don’t feel bad sweety, I’ll just take a walk or something. You know, clear my mind, might even find me a job.Sit down!  

(Speaks through his teeth)

I said I’m fine!

(Walks to car, turns on radio and sits there. Starts to mutter to himself)

Don’t need my help for anything anymore. Maybe if I had something to do, anything, just something to do. I don’t want my wife to do everything. Providing the money, paying bills. This damn sure ain’t right. I’m the man. I have to be providing for her, not the other way around.

(Man on radio begin talking) What the hell is he talking about? A pipeline is to be built? Now that’s stupid, don’t we already get oil from those foreign countries? What is the point of doing all of this extra work? I mean, those countries already despise us and earn near nothing for all of the fortunes they provide us, but it has to count for something right? Whatever, I don’t need to hear this, doesn’t concern me or my needs. 

(Leans over to change radio station. Starts to talk about jobs)
It could make 20,000 jobs? Well isn’t that something. Maybe, just maybe this isn’t as bad as it seems.

(Exits car and walks back into house. Begins to yell out for his wife)

ALLY! Honey listen up, I think that i’ve found a job. Where is it? Uhm well somewhere around here, it’s a good job honey. What kind if job is it? Uhm well it was to build this pipeline that carries some type of oil, what was it called, uhmm…. Crude oil, yea that’s it. Crude oil. Well how the hell am I supposed to know if it’s good for the environment! Aren’t you glad I found a job?! We can worry about the environment later on. Do I know if it’s definite? What is this, 20 questions? Uh well no I don’t know for sure but it is an opportunity.

(Begins to talk in a mutter with his head hung low) I can finally start making some money. You know, providing for you, being the man I should be.



 Mommy?

(Talking with her son on the phone)

Hi sweetheart … how was your day? Were you good in your class,  You promise you were good? You what you get if you were good

(Smiles)

Oh, you don't want anything? Now, come one what do you want mommy to get you? You just want to spend time with me? Awww, how about this. I will be home for dinner tonight. Yes I promise i won't be late. you know why I'm always late. I have work to do. No i promise work is not more important than you. I love you more than anything and anyone in the world, Okay do you wanna know what I do at work so you know why I'm always away? Okay so I'm a big producer at this company. You know I'm all the way at the top. At the top of the what? At the top of the company sweetheart. What I do is, i am trying to make sure this pipeline isn't built. What do you mean? What's pipeline? It's this biiiiig pipe that goes underground and carries oil. So you know the president right? President Obama?

(Chuckles slightly)

Yes, I know you helped vote for him. Kay. If I do my job right, and everyone else does their job right, we can stop obama. Well this is what will happen, you know the water we have now? The nice yummy water? In the rivers, the oceans and all those fun creeks we go to? Well, if this project happens, and a small little leak or like a crack happens that oil can ruin the small amount of freshwater we have. Yes I know the earth is 75% or was it 60% of water, hmm, better look that up. So if water gets into it, we only. Okay let me get this straight, sweetheart so you don't get confused and I don't either. The world is mostly salt water and that's the water we can't drink and then there is this tiny tiny amount of water we can drink which is freshwater. So if this oil-this pipeline is built and the oil leaks into that water, that's gonna mean no more water for us. And that means we're gonna have to go aaaalllll the way to get salt water. Do you want salt water sweetheart? No, I thought so because I don't like it either.  Kay? I understand that you're like 'ooooh this is just a pipeline, you don't need to do anything about it' But think about it, you love those fishies right? Yea I know you do because you have one of them in your -- our home. But if this pipeline is built all of the fishies will die. Then who will take you fishing? Yea well not who but what will you do when you go fishing?

(Starts to frown and looks sad. Voice breaks slightly)

I know that sometimes I get a little too carried away at work and that I might spend a little too much time there and don't spend enough time with you, but I promise sweety, I swear that if this project is over. If obama, the president, declines the project. I promise I'll spend more time with you and I'll take you to chuckie cheese, and maybe we can go to the playground and have a little picnic. Yes, I'll even be there for your birthday. I promise I won’t be late for dinner. Yes, I love you too.

(Hangs up phone, with tears in her eyes)


History from Hikma Salhe on Vimeo.

Keystone Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Allison Kelly in World History - Block - C on

Keystone Pipeline Monologue Project


Part I

In this unit I have learned about the pros and cons of a proposed pipeline that could could potentially make it or break it for some people.The Keystone Pipeline was developed to carry oil from Canada’s oil sands to the Gulf Coast of Texas. This Pipeline is becoming a new national issue that is causing many issues. After watching very biased videos on both sides, it seems that big businesses and companies are the ones for this pipeline considering all the benefits they could get from it, whereas the surrounding homeowners are completely against this idea due to all of the threats it can cause. 


Part II

.“If we are truly concerned about carbon, it seems to me building a state-of the-art pipeline which is the most efficient way to get -- to move oil around is the best approach,” 

(http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/environment/jan-june13/keystone_02-18.html)

.“These jobs have been a bright spot in a tough economy for three million American families,”

(http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/environment/jan-june13/keystone_02-18.html)

.“The company’s claim that KXL will create 20,000 direct construction and manufacturing jobs in the U.S. is not substantiated” and “KXL will not be a major source of US jobs, nor will it play any substantial role at all in putting Americans back to work.” In fact, the State Department’s own study, which many pipeline opponents felt was tilted pro-industry, suggests that far fewer jobs will be created and most of them will be temporary and non-local. 

(http://blog.nwf.org/2012/09/the-keystone-pipeline-myth-machine-2012-election- edition/) 

.In Nebraska, TransCanada’s proposed route cuts directly across the aquifer and through fragile ecosystems geologically similar to the Sandhills region, threatening the livelihoods of local farmers and ranchers, wildlife and millions of people who depend upon the Ogallala. Tar sands oil contains high concentrations of benzene and other carcinogens, which raises the potential for widespread water contamination.

(http://blog.nwf.org/2012/09/the-keystone-pipeline-myth-machine-2012-election-edition/) 

.”This pipeline, intended to carry crude oil 1,711 miles from Canada's oil sands through the Great Plains to the Gulf Coast of Texas.”

(http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2011/10/03/what-are-the-risks-of-the-keystone-xl-pipeline-project)


Part III

Company Owner’s Son-

(Danny, furious and upset, is walking home fast)

“I can’t believe it, I really can’t. Another game, he missed another game! Ughhhh, all I asked is for one time, just one time that he keeps his promise. Of course the day I pitch a perfect game he has another excuse for. I hope that stupid, stupid company of his falls apart once again so then maybe he’ll quit for good!” 

(Danny slams the front door shut behind him and begins to walk up the steps, mumbling his responses.)

“I don’t care dad. … Nothing is wrong I just don’t care. … I don’t care about your stupid job, your stupid company, or that stupid project!”

(Danny slams his bedroom door closed and sits at his computer desk.)

“He really thinks I am going to care about anything he says right now! You missed my like best game this year and you expect me to care about some stupid project that will 

(makes air quotations) 

 save your job? Like how will a dumb pipeline save any business anyway? I don’t even know what it is.”

(turns on his compute and mumbles the word “keystone pipeline” as he types it in)

“Uhhh keystone pipeline, oh here we go. Well, um, that’s interesting. I mean, maybe this could benefit both of us, considering if this pipeline does everything it says it will, that means more jobs at his oil business could develop which would allow my dad to hire more staff, giving him more free time to do something, like um, maybe spending some time with his only son. I mean, we also won’t be so tight on money anymore, with daddy’s business booming I could get that new bat I was talking about. Maybe this really could be a good thing! All of his products could finally get out of here in Canada and make its way to the states! He can finally stop talking about himself all the time. Whoah! Umm well I guess here comes all the bad parts. Wait, is this serious? It does say there is better ways to create jobs and get products out there so maybe this isn’t the only option. No, no, no! This cannot be his only option considering all this will do! Of course once again being the selfish person he is, he’s just been talking about all the great and amazing things this project will do and not anything about how it well, for starters poses a huge threat to the environment. No wonder why he never comes to my environmental group meetings at school. Once again, only parent not there. He’s also talking about all the jobs he could create for his stupid company and nothing about all he will be taking away from these poor farmers, or even worse, what it could potentially do to the people living near this pipeline.”

(Looks quickly at the door)

“Oh, um, hey, how long have you been standing there? … Listen I didn’t really mean that I was just upset. … Well it’s hard when you’re never there for me and you’re always wrapped up in your job. … Yeah, about that project, do your research on it dad. It can really hurt people. … No do it now. … Thanks.” 

(Turns off computer)


Save Grandpa!!!-

(Alexis runs in talking to her parents from being at her grandpa’s house)

“It was so much fun! … Of course he said I can go back next weekend, he nevers says no. … Well he likes me being there. … Ummm Because he tells me he does. … I don’t know, like what would I do if I didn’t go to his house like every weekend? … But that’s where I wanna be. … Um no, what do you mean? ... Like it’s not even a big deal, what do you mean there might come a time when I won’t be able to go there? ... That will never happen. 

(Storms away, but stands around the corner to hear what they say. Begins talking to herself.)

“A pipeline? Why would a pipeline stop me from going to my grandpa’s house? Like what does that have to do with anything? … How is this pipeline going to cause threaten my health and the environment, I’m so confused. … Why would someone build something in Nebraska that could cause this crude oil to leak on my grandpa’s land there? He could get like so hurt from this! … All the farming jobs are put at risk? … Who wants this to happen? ... No, this can’t happen! 

(Walks back around the corner in front of her parents)

“Who is making this happen? … Like grandpa could get so hurt from this! … What are you guys going to do to help him? … Well you can’t just keep me from seeing him and not help him! … Why don’t you care about him!”

(Storms off crying to her room and picks up her phone) 

“Grandpa? … No, I’m not okay. … Well my parents just told me I can’t go to your house anymore if this stupid pipeline happens! … No it’s not for the best! … Well why don’t you come live with us? … Well I know you shouldn’t have to leave your home, but it’s not safe for you or for anyone living there and whoever is doing this doesn’t seem to care. ... Well what can we do to stop it? … Yeah, I would go. … Well when is the protest? … Okay. … Do you really think this could work? … Okay I’ll be there. … Love you too. … Bye. 

(Hangs up phone and run down stairs)


A Family Man with No Other Choice-

(Walks outside to get the mail and throws the bill down on the table when he walks back inside. Sits down on the couch staring at a blank tv.) 

“I can’t believe this. How am I suppose to pay another bill when I still have no job. I’m laid off, my wife has no choice but to stay home, I have four kids for crying out loud. I just don’t see things getting better. If I don’t find a job soon my kids will keep living this difficult life of a stressful household, my wife will probably come to her senses one of these days and just leave me and this small, ugly Nebraska house, and my kids will grow up not knowing me and eventually hating me. I have to do something soon, before I lose everything I love, but I’m afraid of the only choice I have.”

(Looks at the door as his wife walks in)

Hey, honey. … Nothing’s wrong, it’s just that pile of bills is getting bigger and bigger and I’m afraid that the only choice I have to provide for my family goes against all of our morals. … Well for starters, the environmental issues that it is going to cause alone is making me not want to do it. Not to mention the threat it will cause to everyone living near this pipeline, including us. It also could end jobs for other people even though, it creates one for us, but I still don’t want to see someone else be put in the position we are in now. … I mean, this is my only choice though. … It’s not all bad. It does, most importantly, give me a job. It also creates energy security, there are many labor union benefits, it will get new products out there, it will help the economy, and will cause less of a carbon footprint. That’s all important stuff, right? … I mean the oil is going to end up being transported from Canada one way or another anyway so at least this way I get a job. ... Yes, I understand that. The environment and others are very important to me, but you're right, we do have to think of our family first. … Yeah, I guess we can just wait and see.



Part IV

Monologues 1 from Allison Kelly on Vimeo.

Pipeline project

Posted by Angelica Owens in World History - Block - C on

For this project I learned a lot about the Keystone pipeline that is already trying to be built. I learned that it is for one, one of the biggest political battles currently happening in Washington. It is a proposed extension of the Keystone pipeline, it carries oil to Canada and crosses the border of Canada. It is a $7 billion dollar, 1,179 mile pipeline where they will carry 36 inch crude oil beginning in Hardisty Atlanta. In 2013 Governor Dave Heinman approved TransCanada’s proposed route in Nebraska. It intends to open by 2015 with a capacity to transport 830,000 barrels of oil per day, it is the largest infrastructure project currently proposed in the U.S.


5 key points:

* The estimated 20,000 new jobs ( 5 things to know about the keystone pipeline)

*  Crosses the border of Canada (keystone Xl about the project)

* 1,179 mile, 36 inch crude oil (5 things to know about the keystone pipeline)

* Pollutes drinking water (5 things to know about the keystone pipeline)

* Threatens Environment (keystone xl environment responsibility)


Title: Oh no not another project!



(teacher walks into classroom and sits down on seat)


Good morning kids you have a new project to work on….. It’s about the keystone pipeline…. Don’t get an attitude I’m assigning you a project about it! I told you I was going to do that…. Just because I’m 28 does not mean you can disrespect me! You want to know what the keystone pipeline is…. Ok. No problem it’s a $7 billion dollar, 1,179 mile pipeline where they will carry 36 inch crude oil…. It’s dangerous for the the earth so dont get near it because you could get hurt. It pollutes the water very bad so you can get sick if you get too close to it…. Yea its very bad for the earth. If you are a earth conscious person like me then you will know where i’m coming from….. If you can tell i’m against it…. Have you ever heard of the bluegrass pipeline?.... Oh….. no you haven’t heard of it before…. Ok well all you need to know is that the Bluegrass pipeline can transport flammable natural gas…. Yea I understand your faces of being scared. I would be as well…. People fear that the bluegrass pipeline will threaten water supplies…. Oh why do they fear it?.... Well i’m assuming because as I stated before it pollutes drinking water….. No problem. I’m glad to answer any questions….. Oh that’s right I never discussed what your project will be about did I?.... Oh I didn’t i’m sorry. Your assignment is to look up the keystone pipeline and find out the background information of it and how bad it is for the environment and also the good things that is going to happen due to the pipeline, you can start now in class….. Yes you have a question or a statement?...... Oh go ahead…. It says here something good about the pipeline being built is that they estimate 20,000 new jobs to be made for citizens is that true?..... Yes that would be correct…. Why don’t I want it to be built then?.... Because I feel like being personally safe, and having the environment clean is way more important than jobs even though jobs are good as well….  Ok well the project is due next friday that gives you a week to gather the information and be ready to present….. I will give you the project rubric tomorrow. Have a great day!

  

(school bells ring for class to end)




Title: Work on the car



(Car mechanic walks in to job)


Man let me tell you about this keystone pipeline guys. (drilling of tools onto a car).... Yea this pipeline is gonna be amazing for us yall…. Oh why?..... Let’s just put it this way there are going to be more jobs for car mechanics which means that there will be more than four of us in this job…. I know right its great!..... Oh you want to know more great things about it…. Let’s see…. (thinks for more information about the pipeline).... Oh yea, you don’t have to depend on another country to get your oil, support significant growth of crude oil production in the United States. Is that it?.... Oh you want to know more…. Ok. It will allow American and Canadian more access to the large refining markets found in American midwest and along the U.S Gulf of Mexico. Another good thing about it being built is that Nebraskans will benefit from tax revenues and spending stimulus from the construction stuff and the first 15 years of operation or the keystone xl pipeline. Also, the level of economic growth wouldn’t have been possible without the keystone pipeline running through the norfolk area….. Hell yea im all for it! Why wouldn’t I? The keystone pipeline is amazing especially for us car mechanics….. Why do I like it so much?!?..... Dude, I thought I just explained it to you why I am so hype about it! (looks frustrated) Once again for the 5th time I like it because it is an amazing opportunity for people to get hired for jobs. Also, the gross sales of used taxes increases and most the jobs will be created during pipeline construction…. Oh you want to know more! (sighs) …. Ok well, $10 million economic impact in the norfolk area during the recession…. Thats all you wanna know??..... You sure…. Ok, let’s get back to fixing the car….. (continues drilling on the car)




Title: The gardener



(opens garden and starts planting flowers while talking to another gardener)


Good morning Julie! Isn’t this a lovely day to be planting flowers and talking about the environment?..... Yes, I agree that we should talk about the keystone pipeline. Have you heard about it before?.... I feel as though it has great aspects of it such as they estimate 20,000 new jobs which is great because so many people are unemployed. If they are unemployed that means that they can not really support their family as well as they could if they were employed and if they have a lot of kids, oh please help em. Another good aspect of this is that TransCanada became the third largest employer in a community of nearly 25,000…. I know doesn’t that sound amazing!.... Oh you want to know a few more things of what makes the keystone pipeline a must have?.... Ok well let’s see. (ponders while brush her hair to think of some more reasons) Oh how could I forget, the gross sales of used taxes increases, majority of jobs will be created during pipeline construction….. Oh yea I forgot as I said before there are a lot of things I do not like about it as well….. Oh such as?.... Such as it pollutes drinking water which is terrible because if you even think about drinking that water you could get extremely sick and possibly have to go to the hospital…. Another thing I do not like about it is that it cost $58.6 million in property taxes, $39.1 million in sales taxes, $20.1 million in individual income tax, and 3.3 million in corporate tax. If you add all that up then you are spending billions of dollars just for this pipeline which may not even stay up for very long….. Well it was nice talking to you and seeing you again…. I’ll talk to you soon….Okay bye Julia see you tomorrow.

Keystone pipeline from Angelica Owens on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Adnan El-Bedawi in World History - Block - C on
Part 1: What we've been learning.

Adnan:

In this unit we studied the Keystone XL Pipeline and its impact. We also studied the question of global inequality, and the Millennium Development Goals.  The Keystone XL Pipeline is a proposed extension to the Keystone Pipeline, which runs across America, from Alberta to the Gulf of Mexico, transporting tar sands oil. The Millennium Development Goals are goals that were set by the United Nations in 2000, in order to make for a happier planet as humans and to bring global equality.

Jordan:

Our class studied the Keystone pipelines issues and benefits toward people with different different lifestyles. The pipe itself was already created a was proposed to expand, but was turned down, three years ago the proposal came up again and we have been debating about this ever since. We also looked at the millennium goals which were plans to make the world a better place by 2015. We discussed the success of the issues by discussing with each other. Finally we look at the world equality in general and how in some places we learned the difference in economy around the world and how uneven it is.



Part 2: The Facts

Adnan:

  • Would transport 830,000 barrels of oil a day. (TransCanada Keystone XL)

  • Construction projected for 2015 if passed. (TransCanada Keystone XL)

  • Proposed to run from Alberta to Alaska. (TransCanada Keystone XL)

  • Would generate 20,000 jobs. (TransCanada Keystone XL)

    Caused spikes in rates of rare cancers. (Keystone XL Pipeline foe.org)


    Jordan

    • “The estimated 20,000 new jobs have been a key selling point for Keystone XL”(PBS.org)

    • “protests against Keystone XL in front of the White House, which led to the arrests of more than 1,000 people” (www.nytimes.com/)

    • Would reduce oil use in other countries by 40% (TransCanada)

    • Would carry 830,00 barrels of oil daily (Foe.org)

    • levels of carbon dioxide emissions are three to four times higher than those of conventional oil, due to more energy-intensive extraction and refining processes. (foe.org)

Part 3: The Monologues

Monologue 1: A Dog's View - by Jordan
A homeless man and his dog sit outside the white house begging for money. A crowd of protestors stand in front of them yelling about the pipeline. The crowd shouts to gain the attention of the white house and no one really cares about the man and his pet.

Dog: What are those hippies doing now, they make hard to sleep. (looks to homeless man) Hey buddy,  tell them to shut up (stares at man sitting next to him) You‘re useless. (Lays his head down) What are they even protesting, its like everyday there's something new, (says in mocking voice) we need shelter, we need food, no one cares! (He sees a flyer pass by him from the crowd) What’s this (reads it) Keystone huh,well... WAIT! (Jumps up on all fours) Over 20,000 jobs will be created, this is pure genius, why hasn’t this been built, aside from helping the environment and basically damaging land this is the greatest chance to get people like us from off the street. Why isn’t it happening  (Scowls at crowd) Those idiots, because of them were still on the street. You (looks at homeless man) fix this, go over there and show them what they are doing to us. (growls) Get up, come on, show them what the plundering unemployment rate has done to you.(Waits) You’re useless! These people are denying us the luxury we deserve and you sit here staring aimlessly looking for some to hand you what you want, you have to fight for it. They wouldn’t be protesting if they were kick out onto the street lost and alone... (looks away) Howling at the night sky. Put through the test of time wondering if i’ll make it to the next day drifting like a piece of debris and seen as such-  NO! you’re the reason (points at homeless man) Why did you drag me down with you? What is the point of taking me with you if you are not able to support me?! All I want is a home and a family who loves me. You have no home no money you can’t even provide for your self why did you take me with you?

Monologue 2: A Caring Father - by Adnan

Liam Crossworth is the father of a family that’s living in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. His mother and grandmother have both died from Breast Cancer, though his mother was only diagnosed with breast cancer after the first part of the Keystone Pipeline was built, and it was being used. They live downstream from a tailing pond, a place where polluted water used in the refinery of Tar Sands oil, is stored. Ever since the tailing pond was put there, there have been increased rates of cancer at his village.


Liam: (Sits down in his chair and uses the remote to turn on the news.) Hm, I wonder if anything interesting is on the news today. Hm… (Turns volume up on remote.) Wait... what? Keystone XL Pipeline?! No. It can’t be. They can’t be deciding to make that monstrous titan of pollution bigger? 830 thousand barrels of oil a day? It will start here, too… this isn’t good. 3 barrels of water used just to extract 1 barrel of oil? What will happen to the tailing pond up the stream? Will it get bigger, become more toxic, or both? They can’t possibly be actually thinking about approving the pipeline. Sara….. no, they can’t. They can’t build this pipeline. Sara would be even more likely to get cancer like mom and dad. I’ve been worried about Sara ever since she was little, I never thought that they would allow the first Keystone Pipeline, but now they’re talking about an extension to the toxic thing?  No, this is really bad. I have to do something about this. If we don’t move or I don’t do something to stop this, and Sara gets Cancer… it’s just unthinkable. I would hate it for Ramona to get Cancer, either. I don’t want any of my family to get Cancer, I don’t know what I would do without them. Also, what will become of the animals in the area? If they all leave because of this huge thing being built in place of their homes, what will I do? What will I research then? Will we become homeless? This is just too much to take in...I have to tell Ramona about this. If this stuff about the pipeline keeps up, we’ll be forced to move. (Footsteps echo off-stage.) Hm, is that her coming now?

(Sara’s mom enters the room, and Liam stands up.)

Hey, have you heard about this Keystone XL Pipeline that they’re talking about on the news? ...No? Basically it’s going to be an extension on the pipeline that they already have now.. yes, tar sands oil. I know, I know, the tailing pond has already contaminated a lot of the drinking water. Yes, we will probably have to move if they approve this. But what will we do with grandpa? These days he can hardly get into another room much less outside. This news would be devastating to him, and it would cost us a fortune to move him out of the house, with all of the medical help he would need. Yeah… okay, I’ll tell him. (Liam exits the stage.)

Jordan:This is a well written description about the pipeline it is well written and can keep a steady flow of information. But, this main character needs to discuss more about why he cares, I understand he does it for his family, but If you could find deeper meaning that would help.

Monologue 3: An Old Soldier - by Adnan

Edward Crossworth is the grandfather in the Crossworth family, and has been living in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta all of his life. Currently, he is 98 years old and he has been paralyzed from the neck down since he was shot in the spine in the Vietnam and has been being taken care of by his family since then. He’s lived in the same house his whole life, and now he’s learning of the Keystone XL Pipeline and the threat it poses.


Edward:

This darn TV is too loud. (Picks up remote and turns off the TV). Ah, I think I’ll read the good ol’ fashioned newspaper. (Picks up newspaper.) Ah, I can’t quite see. Hmm.. where are my glasses. (Picks up glasses.) Ah, there we go. Now, let’s see… “Keystone XL Pipeline”, hm? What’s this about? Damnit, I’m tired of them always building new things to kill us all off! What’s the matter with young folks these days don’t they have any respect for what’s here and what should stay here? (Takes a deep breath.) Sigh… I have to calm down, if my my blood sugar rises again, it won’t be pretty. (Footsteps echo in the hall=way) Liam! Liam, come back! Did you hear about the Keystone XL Pipeline? On the news, you say…? What!? No, but I can’t move... Yes, I know, the girls... but you know it’s tough for me to get around... How am I supposed to move too? Yes, it is a big problem indeed… No, I haven’t taken my pills yet today… I know, I know. This water is dangerous to drink especially for someone my age. You know this stuff killed off Charlie, right? I’ve known him since we fought alongside on the shores of D-Day, and now nothing is left of him but memories and this house we built together brick by brick. I simply refuse to move to another place, especially since it’s not like I have many days left (Edward coughs in a hacking manner.) Heh, well… I guess my body agrees. (Liam switches the medicine bag in Edward’s IV for a new one.) What are we gonna do? Well I don’t know what you’re going to do, but I’m staying here.. I don’t care if you have to move, you can go if you want. I built this house with Charlie, as a testament to our survival in the war, and I refuse to leave it, not until I’m dead!

Monologue 4: A Worker's Care - by Jordan
Hey have you ever wondered about what we're doing, when we build this pipe or who it will affect (Waits for answer, puts down the hammer and stares at him person it to him) You think that we're helping the America get oil, Ha, you’re so oblivious to the pain and suffering that goes in to each place we pass, pipe is probably going to really hurt America. An example is a group of 1,253 people risked being arrested to stop the pipe from expanding, This thing stretches across three major drinking rivers, the Missouri,Yellowstone and Red River. Imagine, in few years after we finish the pipe a break could happen near the Missouri river which destroys the amount of drinking water in that area.(listens to other worker) I get that transcanada promised to clean any where that the pipe breaks, but they can't undo the damage that is done. Plus it’s tar sands oil that means instead of floating like normal oil it sink to the bottom of the water making it much harder to clean and takes even longer to fix (listens) What do you mean ‘we will make it strong’! If the pipeline is decided to be finished in the 20,000 jobs that will be created 14,000 will no longer exists.(Listens) Well I didn’t chose this job, plus what other jobs could I get, I never graduated college  I took this job to get payed that doesn’t mean I have to like it, why did you take it to? Most likely for the same reasons I did. in fact I think that you now see the impact of this dreadful  pipe. In fact, I know a group of pals who don't want the pipe either, they're planning to attack trans canada through another protest.

Monologue 5: Outsider - by Jordan
Hello can you put Mr. Obama on the phone? (Listens) Ohh I’m sorry “president” Obama, can I speak with him  need to take to him about this so called, oil proposal. Ok I'll wait. (waits) Hey Obama what this I hear about a pipe line passing through the US? This kind of sounds like you're leaving us for another person, but I know you wouldn’t.(Listens) Your area! Really! Well, this is a shocker, why didn’t you stay with us we’ve been partners many years, what do they have that we don’t. (Listens) War? Really as if Canada doesn’t have war, what we do is just a minor disagreement.(Listens) I know there have been rumors about oil money going to the wars and supporting the enemy but are oil at least won't damage your ecosystem. Our oil doesn’t dangle over three major drinking sources, we safely transport. We ship it you pick t up you pay use,  it seems fair to me.(listens) I get that the distance of canada is more efficient, but does efficacy equal a promise you made to your people, remember way back when you said you would work on the environment? Well the type of oil your drilling is not for you if that is the case, I mean it’s tar sand a dangerous unhealthy unclean oil, Unlike the oil we’ll give you which is “clean”. (Listens) You're not just doing this for me your doing for your country. Plus this canadian oil will only last 10 years, the oil we have 56% percent of the world’s oil in our hands, if you stay with us we promise you will not have to worry about one day losing oil for a much longer time. (Listens)So you’ll consider it? That’s great don’t worry I promise that if you do re join us you won’t regret it. (Hangs up Phone) Wow I can’t believe, I got president Obama to see that funding war in a different country, is better than  getting oil from an allied country in the same continent as they are in. I almost feel bad that such a powerful person could be so gullible (laughs to himself) What a tool!!! Of course he still has to agree, but how can he refuse? He been with us for so long that we are almost like family to him unlike transcanada, we can’t be turned down!

Pipeline monologue

Posted by Amanda Thieu in World History - Block - B on
​In this unit in history class we have recently learned about a proposal about the Keystone XL pipeline. Essentially, the pipeline is a 1,179-mile (1,897 km) long pipeline that starts in Canada and travels it's way into the United States and ending in Illinois. This pipeline transports crude oil and is supposedly a much safer and faster way for the oil to travel. Since there are many convincing bias opinions on the proposal it was very challenging to conduct a personal opinion on the idea of this contraption. Personally, I am against the idea of the pipeline. For example, Transcanada has stated that 100,000+ jobs are going to be created. They are only temporary jobs, and plus there are many experts saying that the Keystone pipeline can actually kill more jobs than it creates. For instance, there will be many " "job losses will be caused by additional fuel cost in the midwest, pipeline spills, pollution, and the rising cost of climate change." 

Five Quotes: 

1) "We are also one of the largest providers of natural gas storage and related services, with more than 400 billion cubic feet of capacity. That’s enough to meet the needs of nearly four million homes each year. See more at: http://keystone-xl.com/home/transcanada/#sthash.QzpQedZV.dpuf - Transcanada  (For)


2) “ The total carbon pollution impacts of Keystone XL are the equivalent of putting 9 million cars on the road when considering the total emissions of tar sands and refining processes.” http://act.350.org/letter/a_million_strong_against_keystone/ (Against)


3) “Keystone XL will contribute dramatically to climate change. The State Department confirmed that tar sands fuel is up to 19% more greenhouse gas intensive than conventional fuel, and the tar sands industry admits that Keystone XL will lead to more tar sands production.
Link:  (Against)


4) "The pipeline will have capacity to transport 830,000 barrels of oil per day to Gulf Coast and Midwest refineries, reducing American dependence on oil from Venezuela and the Middle East by up to 40 per cent. - See more at: http://keystone-xl.com/about/the-project/#sthash.G57gYy1h.dpuf"  (For) 

5) "The pipeline will cross more than 1,000 water bodies across 3 states and 875 miles threatening drinking water for people, farms, and ranches with a devastating tar sands spill" 
Link: (Against) 


I hate you. (Ian: prisoner)


(Reading the sentences at a faster pace than normal)

This isn’t my fault… this just isn’t my fault…. it’s that bastard’s fault. (prison guard passes him a pen and paper) (phones aren’t working have to communicate it in an old fashioned way)
(Pacing in the jail cell writing a letter: frustrated, babbling, angered) Look you idiotic moron, you are the most ridiculous protest leader out there. You my friend have a lot of things coming your way. Once I get out jail FOR THE SECOND TIME NOW, I’m coming for you. Jail changed me man. It changed me, I should not be in here for the ideas you planned for the entire group to sabotage the Keystone Pipeline. YOU. YOU SHOULD BE IN PRISON NOT ME. Yes, I admit that I wasn’t the best person before, ya know doing heroin and closely sending a man to his exile but that’s the past. I finally turned myself around, got help from you to construct my anger and psychotic feelings into something good, like protesting against the pipeline. Remember at the protest? Yeah, when the cops recognized me from 3 years ago, and simple mindedly arrested me for speaking my mind about this mental proposal for a lazy way of transporting oils across North America. YOU my group leader, my “supposedly” best friend deserted and abandoned me,  while rough man hands groped and violated my personal space to force me into a cop car yet once again. Therefore, I thank you, because I realized that I’m going to rot in prison for a while. Keystone XL proposal must be stopped but I do not trust you to be in charge of protesting. You know jack squat about this project and you’re defending it as if it was your own child. Quit the facade and learn the real issues.  People through fucking trash everywhere now a days, and basically we live in a pig house. All I’m saying is that we should care about this environment instead of digging it up and replacing that land with a metal pipe. You shouldn’t call yourself a protest leader you’re just a creature who has no soul and no regard towards other people except for yourself.



Why Me?

Quinn- Protest leader

(Along the pipeline land with the other protesters reading the letter from Ian)

(Reads last few lines of the letter then starts her rant)

(Pacing just out of earshot of the protest)

Wow I didn’t realize that this would be taken so far... What happened to people just standing up for what they believe in. My parents and grandparents did not have to deal with the cruelty of going to jail for speaking their minds. At least not like this... (Stops pacing) I don’t think... Anyway I don’t know why they didn’t arrest all of us maybe there was someone still on the hunt for him... I mean I understand "The man" just as much, if not less than he does. He could have joined any protest and they might still have taken him. There was an article in the news the other day about the Native Americans blocking the construction workers from getting the supplies to where they need it to build the pipeline correctly. I only did this because I believe in something I thought thats what he believed in too but I am guessing he has have changed his mind because of the tone in his letter. Sometimes things happen to us because we need them to or we need a lesson so maybe instead of blaming me...You know what why the hell am I trying to explain this crap. (Throws letter to the ground) HE KNEW! He knew what he were getting himself into, he knew that there was a chance of getting caught and he OF ALL PEOPLE should know that this THIS would get you back in jail! THEY KNOW HIM FOR GOD'S SAKE!!!! If THEY are going to arrest somebody out of anyone here they would most likely go for him! I mean he has been there before. This was his choice not mine protests usually don't go to well when the police get involved but what do I know all I wanted to do was stand up for what I believe in and look where that got him...Maybe he's right... Why would anyone believe in me... I am the kid in the classroom who shares her ideas and questions and they get shot down because they are "stupid" or "immature." Why would all these people come here when I, I of all people... Aaaaaaahhh (Grabs hair like she is going to pull it out), forget it everything is my fault isn’t it everything I do good or bad is always.... Why me.... Why me... I was just trying to do something to change the world for the better that is all I ever wanted was to make something no matter how small better but now I’ve gone and screwed things up again why do I always do this?(Walks back to the protest)




New Perspective

The land surrounding the pipeline

(Resting on the floor of the ground to represent the land around the pipeline)

Humans have done some crazy things but I never knew that it could get crazier. This Keystone, XL program is supposed to destroy 1,179 miles of me. They Are saying that it will only have a 36 inch diameter but if my inhibitions are correct then these humans will just get crazier and either put more of these things here or they will make this one “bigger and better” That’s how humans work i guess, doesn’t make a whole lotta sense to me but you know I’m just the land under their feet i don’t do much but sit here and try to look pretty or as pretty as they will let me  be. It was much easier to be beautiful before the humans went bonkers. Hardisty, Alberta used to be this wondrous, lovely place now it will have a stinkin' pipe starting there. Also if you thought that was bad Nebraska is such a quiet state that most Americans forget about it in the Midwest just minding its own business now it is going to have a pipe ending there. Oh and lets not forget folks about the 181 million metric tons of carbon dioxide being sent up into my friend Air, who by the way I think has had it worse than I with the whole ozone thingy. Anyway I remember when the only thing that was being built on me was a place to sleep for a night or two but now they need to have everything for everyone so they build nonstop there are humans who specialize in this which I think is amazing that they can make a profession out of the simplest of tasks that everyone used to do together back in the day. I remember all the trees that would shade me from the harsh sun in the areas I needed and in the areas that needed the sun there was nothing blocking it I remember when the only thing running along me were my friend Water's gushing rivers and the pitter patter of the feet of animals being chased by humans or other animals. I remember, even when the first rode was built and it was such a new experience that I was excited for what was to come now I am not so excited I don’t think I have been happy or excited in a long time.



This Means the World and More

James- Construction worker

(In bosses office to talk)

Hey uh...boss? I don’t know how to tell you this but... Yeah there are some umm... I’m sorry but uh... There are some uh protesters sir... Yes, they are along they land where we are supposed to build sir... Well, the problem is, sir is that they are blocking us from doing the prep work and... Sir i understand but I would not have come to you if they hadn’t gotten in the way of our work...yes sir I already called the police but when they were here they only arrested one man and the rest were all left here...No sir they said that the land is not private land and there is no other way to get them arrested unless the protesters turn violent or they destroy property which they are not doing they aren’t even a disturbance because they are pretty much silent except when we come around.... I understand sir but... Sir I know but.... Sir...I want to get them out of here just as much as you do sir... Why sir? Because I need to bring home enough money for me and my bed rest wife who is staying home now because her job laid her off once they saw that she would not be able to do the work they ask of her... (Starts to pace because he is rambling) And sir we have been preparing for this baby for forever we had to try for the baby for four years and now that she is carrying I will stop at nothing to make sure she is happy. She was so upset when she found out she couldn't do more to prepare for the baby and I really want her to relax and just enjoy the time she has to spend alone but she doesn't want to unless everything else id perfect so I want, no I need to make sure everything is perfect. I need this job just as much if not more than you need all of us to work the job... I don’t know what I would do without this job right now because it is the only thing that is bringing in the money and things for the baby right now and though that isn’t much it is more than I could ever ask for at the moment so thank you for giving me this job. i know that there are many others that also thank you because this is just an amazing opportunity You don’t know how much this means to me but I will need to be able to work so if you could do something about the protesters that would be great... Thank you sir.

(Leaves office)

The CEO Boss :
Oh lord, these things again.

Hey James... You can tell me... Just spit it out James... THE PROTESTERS ARE WHERE???DOING WHAT????? CALL SECURITY DO SOMETHING BEFORE I BODOSE OVER THEIR TREE HUGGING BODIES MYSELF. <talks to self> <squeezes squeeze toy for stress relief> “okay Charles calm down, the freaks will move it’s okay don’t worry” ANNA! (assistant) WHERE ARE MY STRESS PILLS. Anywho look James boy I’m going to try my best and get rid of those monsters, they’re too busy worrying about their precious environment but I’m going to tell you a little secret. I honestly don’t give a flying fladoodle about any of it, I care about the profits, and the investment into this entire operation. Understood? So I need you to be on my good side and help me extinguish these rebellious human beings. That is unacceptable. Yes I understand that you need money for your new expected child, unfortunately since the Keystone XL pipeline has YET to be built, I cannot pay any of my workers because I AM nor our company is getting paid. Ya get what I’m sayin man. Come back when the workers get off their lazy asses and do something about this pipeline. Dismissed.




Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Kara Rosenberg in World History - Block - C on
In this unit, our class learned about the Keystone Pipeline, and the arguments for and against it. The Keystone Pipeline is a pitched idea of a pipe that carries tar sand's oil from Canada to Texas. This pipe will go through six states to get to Texas, which could potentially affect peoples' land and lives. The decision of whether this pipeline will be passed is made by Barack Obama. 


Quotes and facts:

"The Keystone XL pipeline would carry 830,000 barrels of dirty tar sands oil into the United States daily, and result in climate-damaging emissions equal to adding more than 5.6 million new cars to U.S. roads. " foe.org

"During tar sands oil production alone, levels of carbon dioxide emissions are three to four times higher than those of conventional oil." foe.org

"The probability of spills from this pipeline is high and more threatening than conventional spills, because tar sands oil sinks rather than floats, making clean ups more difficult and costly." foe.org

"In the summer of 2010, a million gallons of tar sands oil poured into the Kalamazoo River in Michigan from a pipeline run by another Canadian company, Enbridge. Although nearly one billion dollars have been spent over the past three years to clean up the spill, almost 40 miles of the river are still contaminated." foe.org

"Not only have indigenous communities been forced off of their land, but also those living downstream from tailing ponds have seen spikes in rates of rare cancers, renal failure, lupus, and hyperthyroidism." foe.org


Memoirs 

STORY 1

(Sitting in doctors office waiting, doctor comes into the room)

Hi Doctor Miles, I’m good thanks. And you? Oh thats great. Yeah, yeah, the baby is doing fine as far as I’m concerned, I feel great!

(Doctor begins to take tests)

So do you see anything I should be worried about? Oh that’s wonderful. Just two more months to go, I’m so excited! I’ve always dreamed about raising my daughter in the same place I grew up… She’s actually going to have the room I had when I was little! Yeah, I’m really excited. Well, is there anything else? My asthma? It’s alright I guess, I mean I just got used to it. Yeah, I mean I’ve had it my whole life, most of my siblings have it, too, It’s just normal for me. No, my husband doesn’t have it but his mother and grandmother do. Well, I mean I’ve never thought about it before, but I mean I would know how to handle it if my daughter did end up having asthma. No, I know, I understand. You’re concerned? Concerned about what? Yeah, I live about a mile away from here, why? I’ve heard about it in the news, one of my sister’s friend’s land is going to be affected by the pipeline, boy is she mad. My opinion? I don’t know, I’m kind of sidetracked by the baby, I haven’t really had time to think about anything else, is there something wrong with that? I would figure it would cause some pollution… Are you telling me my house will be affected, too? Really? Do you think my asthma will start acting up again? Wow, I’ve never thought about it that way. Lets hope my daughter won’t end up having it! Yeah I know, I’m just trying to be optimistic. So what should I do if she does get it, what if the pipeline is passed? I can’t just get up and move Doctor, this is my home! I grew up here! I am calm! I’m calm. It’s just, I never thought I’d move, especially not because I’m getting polluted out of my own home. Well, thanks for the advice. I really have to go… I have a lot to think about.


STORY 2

(Sitting at kitchen table reading the paper. Loud sounds from video games coming from the basement)

“Turn that down, Jacob! Jacob! I said turn it down! It’s gotta be quieter than that! You’ll wake up your mother!” Geez… I can hardly hear myself think. One of these days you’re going to have to just tell him to get out. But he’s my son… What am I going to do? No. He’s 26 years old. I shouldn’t have to deal with this anymore. But he’s my son… No. He needs to know that our door is always open… But-but not unless you actually do something for a change! You can’t just sit around, play video games, eat all the food, make a mess, and expect me to pay for all of it. I don’t think so. He’s not even trying to find a job! He thinks this is a free ride. Oh no. No, no, no. This can’t go on any longer. (Flips to article on protesting of the Keystone Pipeline) Oh, God, not this again. Who cares? If its makin’ new jobs, its fine by me. This is what I need, this is what America needs! This is the one thing thats gonna get my son out of my house, fending for himself. Anything that does that is okay in my book. God knows he needs this. (Checks watch) 12:30 already? Man, its late. (Goes to stove and puts a kettle on the stove. Makes a plate of food on a tray. Makes a cup of tea with the water. Walks upstairs and quietly goes into his room to see his sleeping wife.) -sighs- Still asleep… Of course. (Walks over to the bed and puts tray of food on the nightstand. Sits on foot of the bed.) -Talking quietly- “You’re so beautiful when you sleep. Man, do I really miss you. I mean… I really miss you. Thats silly to say, you’re right here in front of me. I guess I just mean…. I mean… We used to have so much fun. Remember when we used to go bowling with the Andersons every Sunday night? Ha- I miss them. I remember I’d come home from work every day, and Jacob would be doing his homework, and you’d have dinner on the table and dessert in the oven. You were really great. You still are. I love you. I love you so much. Its just that… (sniffles, wipes tear from cheek) I never thought this day would come so fast. I’m sorry I can’t do more for you… I wish I could take you to the best doctor in the world and he’d fix you, and we’d be back to normal! Its just so hard, you know, with Jacob here and all. Its a lot of people I have to take care of on my own without any help. But don’t you worry, soon Jacob will be working on the pipeline! I just know it. And I’ll be able to afford a doctor for you… and we can be happy again. I promise. I love you.”

STORY 3

(Sitting at computer in robe, coffee in hand)

Ah, lets see… Wow! Five new likes on my post overnight! Well, I’m glad to see some people care… unlike you 27 people who dislike my post. Pff. If only you knew what was really going on… If you would just take the time to listen, and open your hearts to what the environment is telling you… You’d understand. You wouldn’t need me, you would only need yourself. (Reading aloud) “Dear Stacy, what a wonderful piece you have written on the Keystone Pipeline! Please, come to Boston! I know we’d love to hear you talk! Love, Miranda.” Aw, how sweet. Dear Miranda, thanks so much! Love to see that you care. Best wishes, Stacy. Maybe I should think about doing another seminar… I’ve only been to Boston once. Maybe that’d be fun. (Reading aloud) “Stacy, why don’t you just shut up already. Go back to the 80’s. This is 2013, we’re advancing technology everyday. This pipeline is exactly what we need to get ourselves out of this rut, and anyone who thinks otherwise isn’t American. -Anonymous” Wow. Just. Okay. Wow. Remember Stacy… be professional. The world can see this. Maybe I should just delete the comment. No, big deal, act like it was never there. No! I can’t run from my problems. I need to face them. You are smarter than this person, you are more mature. Okay. (Reading aloud) “Dear anonymous, I appreciate the criticism but I’m afraid you are wrong…” No, no, no. Thats just pointing fingers. You need to stick to an actual argument. Lets see “Dear anonymous, thanks for the criticism, but I would have to disagree. What is the point of being American if soon we’re just going to end up destroying the world, meaning the US is gone?!-” Now thats just too harsh. I’ve never had someone be so against my opinions… Okay, lets try again. “Dear Anonymous, thanks for the criticism, but I have to disagree. Since when is being American about destroying our Earth? The Earth was never built to have so much pollution in it, let alone so many people! We are the ones causing these problems. The Earth is not meant to have a gigantic pipe carrying disgusting toxins through it. It’s one thing to give off pollution into the atmosphere, but this is literally putting toxins directly into our ground. I get the positive points to it, don’t get me wrong, it creates new jobs, makes our country more independant, so on and so forth. But since when is economics more important than taking care of the place we live. If we keep neglecting the Earth, one day you’ll wake up and see there is no point to having all of this money if we don’t have anywhere to spend it… Our world is crumbling to pieces every day, you’re just too blind to see it.”


Monologues from Kara Rosenberg on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Elizabeth Vellozzi in World History - Block - C on
Part I

This unit was all about how the world is an equal place the attempts to make it better. We saw that the UN had plans to make the world an all around better place by 2015, but that it really wasn’t gone about the right way. A specific plan to make the world a more equal place was the plan for the Keystone Pipeline. This is a system through which crude oil is delivered from Alberta, Canada and Northern United States. There are many pros and cons that go along with this plan which is why it’s been debated for about five years. To list some of the pros theres, jobs being created by the pipeline, new found revenue from taxes, and not to mention less dependence on foreign oil. On the other hand, as a country, we really don’t have any money to spend on a pipeline. Plus, if something goes wrong with the pipe itself it can pollute countless drinking water sources. 



Part II

  • Cancer can be one of the effects of installing the pipeline
  • (Tar Sands Action) Gas prices will increase if Keystone Pipeline is put into affect 
  • (National Wildlife Federation) TransCanada’s Keystone XL would carry up to 830,000 barrels per day of tar sands oil
  • (National Wildlife Federation) The pipeline would cross six American states including Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.
  • (Natural Resources Defense Council) Has already created over 65 square miles of toxic waste
    ponds


Part III

Monologue #1 (A Cup-a Caw-fee and a Pipeline)

(Opens with Connie pouring her friend Stella a cup of coffee)


The people on the news said it would create jobs so uh therefor I think it is a very good plan


Whatayou mean ‘what do I care about jobs?’ Why shouldn’t I care?


No I’m not workin’ smart ass but ya know my grandchildren, my beautiful grandchil-- wait a minute look at this, hold on lemme get it outta my pocka-book Carla just sent me a new picture of kids look at that.


(Grabs photo and shows it to Stella) 


Yeaaaah thank you yes they are very adorable


(Puts photo away while saying)


Anyway yeah they're brilliant kids I'm tellin ya and I want them to have jobs cuz they're brilliant i'm tellin ya. 


They're 5 and 3, little Vinny’s 3 yeah. 


Well I mean in the future I want them to have jobs. When I am no longer here I would like them to have stability. 


What do ya mean it causes cancer howz it do that


Well if you don’t know how you gonna tell me it causes cancer, ya know thats serious business that cancer uh ya want more coffee?


You sure? I got plenty


Carla just brought me two bags of that uh fancy starbucks grind


I got those international creamer things 


White chawc-a-let (chocolate) macadamia


Well alright suit cha self now uh where did you hear all this bologna about cancer?


Yeah you just saw it on the news. Ya know you can’t always rely on the news people these days


Yeah I got my information from the news but I watch channel 3 you watch channel 10 that damn weatherman with the bow tie never gets anything right what’s his name thunderstorm Shwartz or somethin


Hurricane? Yeah Hurricane Shwartz whatever I’m tell ya this pipe is a good thing


(Bangs pointer finger on table while saying)


Whataya mean we don’t have the money? We got money this is the United States of America we got everything. Freedom, that cutie Justin uh what’s his name uh TIMBALAKE.


No you cannot tell me what goes on behind those walls cause no one knows but them for all we know we could be rollin’ in money! Ya sound like friggen liberal have a little faith in ya govament will ya jesus christ!


I’m not gettin’ worked up I’m sayin


Oh Christ it’s already four o'clock I gotta start the gravy


(Gets up and walks in the kitchen)


Oh you’re still on this friggen pipe thing?


No Stell-- Stella! They’re in office for a reason I’m tellin ya


Stella I’m sure they have picked a perfectly suitable person to make the damn thing


Oh here we go its not gonna break ya know you’re makin me sorry I even brought it up just let me make my gravy will ya

 

Ya know what you're making me even confused than when I was 10 minutes ago just eat cha danish I’m all discombobulated



Monologue #2 Designing Disaster

(Opens with Jason at his desk sighing and digging his fingers in his temples)


(Protest chants ringing outside the office building)


Holly! Hollyyy! Holly!


(Assistant runs in)


Is there any way you can get those people to go bother someone else!? It’s hard enough getting any work done with the big bosses and the damn Canadians breathing down my neck waiting for the perfect plan for the god damn pipeline!


No I apologize, I’m yelling at the wrong person.


Thank you. Can you maybe get me an extra extra large coffee with extra extra bourbon?


Yeah yeah I know


(mumbles to himself)


Jesus I was just kidding lighten up


(Starts talking to himself as Jennifer exits the room)


I got people pulling me from each end for years about this damn thing! It creates jobs but we have no money to begin with. It might cause water pollution but it brings in revenue.


(Chanting outside gets louder)


(Jumps out of his chair and shouts through glass window)


Oh will you people just give it a rest already! Jesus Christ I can’t even hear myself think!


(Turns back around to his desk) 


This job is gonna give me a full head of gray hair before my 35th birthday. Essentially I’m choosing between designing something that causes cancer or bailing on a project that can help the economy, feed my family, and further my career.


(Looks up)


What did I do to deserve this? This could be classifiable as torture. I have the mental and emotional stability of a hormonal pregnant woman.


If I’m actually as good of an architect as everyone thinks I am I should be able to design this thing so that it doesn’t break. Right? Of course I can. Yeah, all I have to do is stop thinking like a wuss. Come on Jay,man up and build this thing like its nobodys business. If I pull this off no one gets cancer, the economy has a chance to get back on its feet, but most importantly all the prestige that will come with being the hero of this whole situation. I can do this. Yeah, I can do this. Woo. alright. Jen! Call the big guys and tell em I’m in.



Monologue #3 The Bitter Brit

(Opens on an English man and his wife in the their home in Briton)

(Plops on chair in front of the television and is yelling to his wife in the kitchen about what he’s seeing on the news)


Oy! Darling have you seen this oil rig in Canada and America?


America made a big to-do about this pipeline from there to Canada for Oil. The country is 74x times England for Christ’s sake and all they do is complain. They’re the spoiled brat of the world.


I’m not bitter I’m just saying it causes cancer and they’re still thinking about building the bloody thing because it’ll make them more money.


Well it’s their own fault if they don’t have money 


Look all I’m saying is that if they had a couple Brits in office they’d whip that country back into shape in no time.


I mean hun come here look at this. This thing costs four billion Euros! That’s just ridiculous!


Well yeah it’s not ALL bad I mean they can put a tiny band-aid on their economy but if the damn thing kills everyone they wont care about the economy!


If there’s ever a time to be proud to be a Brit it’s now. They’ve been griping and groaning about this pipeline for 5 years.


Oh I need a nice British ale.


(Gets up and walks in the kitchen)

(When returning to living room grunts as he sits back in his chair and mumbles to himself)


Seventy four times bigger! Ungrateful berks.  


I’m not bitter. It just seems like it’s an obvious choice. Just don’t build the bloody thing. They can find some other way to get their money I mean do they have no care for their own citizens?


Alright Alright I know I’m sorry. I know I’m getting worked up. I know I’m changing the channel. Not my problem. I’ll just stay here in my tiny country.

A Cup-a Caw-fee and a Pipeline from Elizabeth Vellozzi on Vimeo.

Keystone XL Monologue

Posted by Brittany Atkinson in World History - Block - B on
Our Unit

​In this unit we learned about the Keystone XL Pipeline. The Keystone XL Pipeline is a pipeline that is planned to run through out America from the tar sands in Canada and is going to cost $7 billion. The pipeline is run by TransCanada and the decision was left the United States to decide if they want to go through with the idea or not. It is said to create 20,000 job opportunities in the U.S, benefiting the economy. However, there are many people who do not want the pipeline to be built because of the environmental affects it will cause throughout the country.
​Facts

830,00 barrels of oil per day. (Link)

Starting in Hardisty, Alta.. (Link)

Creates 58.6 billion in taxes.

In the event that the pipeline leaks it could take 1.5 million lives.

Will stretch the length 1,179 miles and 36 inches in diameter. (Link)
 
​

Leave Me Be

(It opens to a police questioning room, he is sitting at the hard metal table as the officer walks in) God, why am I here? You interrupt me from my sleep for nothing, huh? I ain’t never do nothin’! All you do is arrest people for no reason? I want my lawyer, everyone has the right to a lawya! What?.. Who are you to ask me to my name? You should know that ya damn baboon. All right, all right, all right. My name is Hugh Callous, ya happy?...No? Ha that makes two of us.

You know I don’t have time for this. I have sleep to get, and the soup kitchen isn’t gonna be open forever. You’re men shouldn’t be worried so much about me, with all them damn people in front of the white house how the hell am I supposed to get any sleep? All I hear is “Pipeline, Pipeline, Pipeline!” Tell ‘em damned people to shut the hell up. I should I have to care about a pipeline? What? Why would I be involved in that? You think me of all people would be slumping it at a protest for some hippies. No...I do not know the frickn’ leader of the hippy hounds. Can I leave now? A mans gotta eat, and you police gotta eat your donuts.

I don’t care why ‘em people are out there. I don’t think I should have to, I just want some sleep. SLEEP! Yeah I get it, they don’t want you to build your dumb pipeline thats only gonna make people sick and I know a thing or two about being sick. Ya’ll just want some more money and don’t care about where it lands people. Jobs..? You wanna talk to me about jobs? Do I look like I have a job? I haven’t worked in 20 years because of this crap economy, my boy is in foster home because’a you people. Talk’n bout jobs.. ya’ll ever thought about who’s jobs you’ll be taken, did ya? 7 million bucks, for what? Some frick’n oil and this country can’t even give people a damn job at a grocery store. If ya would just give them what they want, they’d shut their snouts and people like me get some damn rest. Ain’t nobody asking for some 1,179 mile metal tube through the damn country. Now let me go, cans aint gonna collect themselves.

(The police officer turns to leave) Where in the hella ya goin’? I want my phone call fool. Aye, dontcha touch me I can walk my damn self. Wheres this phone of yours? ....Well, thank you I appreciate it, damn idiot..

(He picks up the phone and dials a number) Ahem...Hello.. May I speak to Raine? Who am I? I’m his daddy, now put him on the phone... Hey bud, how’s it goin’? Is everything all right? That’s good. Listen..Dad’s gone and got himself arrest for being at the wrong place at the wrong time...Why? Well theres a big protest against this big ugly pipelin--you know about it? Is that right? No I don’t think its right but you know how America is, son.. I’ll get to you soon, I promise..Happy 10th birthday Raine..I love ya too..I’ll see ya real soon and I’ll give ya your present. Bye bud..


​

Papa Come Back

(It opens to a farm house and a little girl is standing in the kitchen with her book bag.) Mommy! Mommy where are you? Are you home yet? Mommy! Mama you didn’t pick me up from school!

(She goes on to the living room.)

Pa wake up!.... Why are you yelling at me? Am I in trouble? No..but pa where were you all day..where’s mama? What’s a protest..? Daddy why is mama protesting your job. Don’t you need that? But..Why would she think its bad if its good for us?.. Environment? Daddy I wanna talks to mama.

(She takes the phone as it rings.) Mama! Come home! What’s the environment?...A pipeline? So the pipeline is bad for the pigs and people..the piggies will get hurt...NO! Mama I wanna help you! Mommy! Don’t hang up! Mama, please I wanna help! Pa why you takin’ the phone from me? But, what if the piggies die! Mama said that if they do the pipeline thingy that our water will be oily and the piggies and people will get sick. Pa please I wanna talk to Mama. (She sobs uncontrollably) What if you get sick, Pa! Stop yelling at me! You's a people aintcha Pa!? I’m a people right? I wanna go with mama! I don’t wanna get sick, Pa, I don’t want our family to die daddy... I gotta help ma, and you keep yelling at me!... It’s your job? But why you wanna work there, Pa?..Where are you goin’?

(Her father leaves and she goes to her room.) God, help me? Why is Pa so mean? Why does his job make him mean? I wish he was nice ‘gain, like he use be to me when he worked on the farm with us and Grandma...Now he’s just rude..He’s mean to Mama too and Grandma and even the piggies.. Mama says that he is just over worked and the chemicals are gettin’ to him..those oils and junk...Mama says a lot of people are workin’ on that big ugly black thang...Pa says we need money for nice things, but I don’t want nice things..I want my Pa back..he don’t even call me Tami no more..He calls me Tamila or girl now..please help me God.. He’ll end up sick if that oil spills. Let Pa find a different job..Mama said he wasn’t gon’ have it long, please get him another one thats happy and that makes Pa..Pa..


​

God Help Me

(He paces through his living room frustrated.) Oh lord, what have I done? I’ve hurt my baby. My wife is gonna hate me when she gets back. Oh Tami darlin’ don’t be upset with me. Why is my family bein’ so damn difficult? I need a job and everyone’s yellin’ at me, sayin’ that I need to quit. What am I gon’ do if I quit, lord?

The farm...the farms done.. We can barely keep our live stock up never mind them crops. What am I to do if we can’t pay this damn morage? We need some money. If this job is only short term, who cares...atleast we got some food on the table.

Michelle says that we don’t need no more oil in this country but I think it’ll be good for us. Nobody gotta worry ‘bout nothin’. Not worried about nobodies oil but our own. She sayin’ I’m losing it but I think I’m fine. I got a job and that’s all I need, don’t matter if I have a few drinks on the way ha. They ain’t got no right. Michelle is protestin’ against the line today and I don’t understand why. Its just a lil money that the countries gotta spend for somethin’ that’ll help us all. That woman always ‘bout the enviroment… now she’s digging ditches into our daughter’s head.

Everybody knows that oil can’t get in our water. I mean Nebraska can fix it with all the new taxes we gon’ get, right? $58.1 billion tax dollars they can fix a lil bit of water. I mean we’re gon’ be alright aren’t we, lord? Michelle is starting to say how I need to choose between the family and the job. How in the hell does she expect me to do that. I got one of the 20,000 jobs.. they should be proud of me.

Maybe...maybe it isn’t even worth it..my baby girls face when I yelled...it-it broke my heart.. I should listen to my family. I wouldn’t be nowhere without em, no matter how annoyin’ they can get. I’m gonna quit for my my family...for my baby.. for my wife.. f-for this damn farm even..it’s not worth given up. God you're always so helpful...


Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Myrna Yousuf in World History - Block - C on
​In this unit we learned about how the building of the Keystone Pipeline has caused a lot of controversies. This pipeline is a project that is about creating a pipeline from Canada through the United States reaching down to the Gulf Of Mexico. By doing so we will be receiving tar sands oil from Canada. We discussed the pros and cons of this in class. In this Monologue Project I present the ideas of three different people who see this in different perspectives.

Five Quotes
  • "will create “about 20,000 construction and manufacturing jobs”

    http://www.pbs.org/wnet/need-to-know/five-things/the-keystone-xl-pipeline/12200/

  • "With an anticipated decision on the Presidential Permit in 2013, the Keystone XL Pipeline has a projected in-service date of 2015."

    http://keystone-xl.com/?gclid=CMeWqOmh5LkCFcyZ4AodKhQAdw

  • TransCanada is currently employing 4,000 Americans in Oklahoma and Texas on construction of the $2.3-billion Gulf Coast Pipeline Project, which is expected to be complete by the end of this year. 

    http://keystone-xl.com/?gclid=CMeWqOmh5LkCFcyZ4AodKhQAdw       

  • The pipelines will also generate an estimated $5 billion in additional property taxes during their operational life. 

    http://keystone-xl.com/?gclid=CMeWqOmh5LkCFcyZ4AodKhQAdw       
  • Numerous studies have shown that crude oil produced from Canada’s oil sands pose no additional safety risks to pipelines and have a similar carbon footprint to other heavy crude oils from around the world. 
              http://keystone-xl.com/?gclid=CMeWqOmh5LkCFcyZ4AodKhQAdw       

The Pipeline Job

(Sitting on the couch, tapping the remote)

Darn it these channels don’t even work! This remote needs some new batteries or somethin’. Allieee! Alliee! What does a guy have to do to watch some TV aroun’ here? Ah there we go, finally its workin’. What’s this? What kind of mess is this? What kind of contraptions do these people be making nowadays? Allie! Come look at this! A fuzzy steering wheel! Who on earth buys them! Ain’t got nothing better to do with their money. I don’t got time for this! Need to see what else is on.

(Clicking the remote)

Nope. No. Oh not again! N- Wait. Ah the news. Oh that pipeline thing they been talking about. I think its a great idea. Hey Allie! Look ‘ere this is what I meant! This could be it for me.

(Allie walks in talking.)

(Jumps up excitedly)

What you mean some other job? It’s perfect. All I need if for that darn pipeline to be built and I could land me a job! I be outta your place before you know it!

(Allie has a worried look on her face.)

You ‘aint got nothin’ to worry about Allie! This is gonna be great! It’s going to help thousands of people land jobs! I’m gonna be one of them.

Allie Allie Allie, you don’t get it. I like to work out in the open. I don’t wanna be taking peoples orders and faking how happy I am, just so I could get a decent tip. No way! That pipeline is gonna be built. It’s all about the government. A few people can’t do nothing.



Protesting the Pipeline

(Shouting at protesters in the background)

Say no to the Pipeline! Say no to the Pipeline! Tar sand will pollute our land! It’ll destroy our forests!

(Walks out of the crowd of protesters)

We’ve been at it for so long. I don’t even know if our voices are going to heard and considered. All the government wants is business. They haven’t even thought about the effects on people. What about the environment? All they want is their stupid business.

(Jacks friend agreeing with him. Nods his head.)

(Jack raises his fist.)

Exactly what I was thinking. I mean there are so many points to be taken into account but they are just ignored. I can list so many things that are being ignored. The carbon emissions are 3 to 4 times more in just the tar sand oil production than regular oil. Just imagine the amount of damage that is going to cause to our environment. Even to just clean out the dirty substances are going to cost us. These substances can get into our clean water supplies. Who’s worrying about that? No one. Just us reasonable people trying to somehow stop this.

I mean no one worries about this stuff. The media doesn’t even cover the effects of this pipeline. No one cares until there problems that start occurring afterwards. What is going to happen to my kids if the water gets contaminated. Do I just let that happen first and then receive benefits for their sickness? This is not a joking matter. Not only for the people here but it is also a danger for my family. We are going to be the ones going through this mess. We need to stop it before it actually causes damage to us and our loved ones. There is no point in taking risks.

(Jacks friend continues to discuss with him.)

I just hope this pipeline isn’t built. It isn’t going to be good for any of us. I mean its one of the most dirtiest fuels on Earth. Why can’t we invest and work on other alternatives for our fuel? Break time is up lets go back now.

(Heads back to crowd of protesters.)

A Native American on the Pipeline

Ahh this breeze feels so good. Just like those good old times I used to watch the birds. But its not the same anymore. Doesn’t have the same earthy smell. Its contaminated, polluted, tainted. Things are just not the same anymore.

(A boy come in yelling something at Nadie.)

Oh yeah. I saw some stuff about some kind of pipeline is going to be built from Canada. What you mean through here? I am not going to give up my land again to these people.

(Yells back to Nadie.)

Who do they think they are they can just come through my land and stick a pipe through it. That’s what these darn Americans know how to do. All they do is invade and take everything from us. I’ve had enough. I sure as heck won’t allow this. They just better find some other way to get their stupid contraption through. They just always worry about their benefits and not about the people. My people have been here for so long and we had moved here so that we could get a peaceful place to stay. But now I see they just keep pushing us around. I’m not letting this happen.

(Rocking back and forth on his chair)

(Waving his hand around as he speaks.)

Boy what are you talking about. I sure as heck am not going to allow their stupid oil down my property; and I am definitely not going to be kicked out! Talking about being used to this. Huh! They just wish I’d give up that easy. Puh! I’ll be waiting here for them. Those men with those fancy clothes trying to get me to sign those papers. Over my dead body. Those conniving people. What good is getting more oil gonna do for them?

(The boy speaks urgently.)

Boy you don’t know anything. That hasn’t stopped these people from taking away things. They took away our lands and our homes, now they want to repeat that.

The foreign oil is also something else. So what? Haven’t they been getting their stupid oil all these years from them.

(Stamps his foot on the floor.)

What now, is that oil contaminated or something? They got a problem with the foreigners now! We sure as heck have problems with them. What happened when they barged into our homes and kicked us out? They are the foreigners! Stupid, dumb government. Huh! Going through my land. I think not! Now you go on off boy. No more nonsense about this pipeline.

Pipeline Monologue Project from myousuf on Vimeo.

Monologues

Posted by Esperanza Gonzalez in World History - Block - B on
​    

      On this unit we studied different ways that humans can interact with the environment. We had a mixture of different things including the XL keystone pipeline. I learned many different things this unit including a great amount of  XL keystone pipeline background information. 


     There’s many facts about the XL keystone pipeline but there’s 5 facts that you should know. First of all, XL keystone pipeline can carry oil from Canada all the way tot the gulf of Mexico. It will travel almost 1700 miles long.This pipeline will generate and reach 900,00 jobs by 2025 half of them in the USA. XL keystone will be the safest and the most stringently regulated pipeline ever!  XL keystone pipeline will generate 134.6 million dollars in taxes that can support schools, hospital districts, and other local programs. Although there’s always a possibility that if this pipeline isn’t built the right way it can leak and might go thru the Great Plains, which is one of the principal water sources. 

Monologue #1 

I'm Pregnant?!! 

(The actor closes the door of the doctor’s office. Sits down on a chair outside with the other people waiting for the doctor.). OH MY GOD! I’m pregnant. I mean is that good… or is it bad, considering that my sister doesn’t know that I slept with her man. I don’t know to feel right now.. I always wanted a baby, and with the man I love, but it’s different this time. My sister and I share the same man. Ricardo always wanted a boy, but the day he went inside my bedroom he said he just wanted to “ release stress”. I don’t know what he meant due to the fact that I just turned 19. My sister is already married with the man I love. I don’t know if.. if.. if.. she’ll understand me. I guess I’m just going to tell her that her that he raped me.. and then.. and then.. and then.. everyone will be happy! NO! (slaps on the face). Although we are already poor, and my sister and I are going to depend on the same man, therefore.. um.. he’ll obviously need to work more. I mean, last time I checked, many of the neighbors were  talking about how this weird pipeline, I think it was called.. keystone something ..XL pipeline. I think it was a possible thing that can be used to transport oil from Canada and other things.. I don’t quite remember. Maybe the owner would want thousands of construction workers. And.. of course Ricardo will be one of them. Although I had this stupid idea. There’s already too much shit on the water these days, if that thing leaks.. ahaa..(starts laughing suddenly),  nevermind. It would never leak, important people are planning those things. Whatever, I’ll just count on that pipeline thing or whatever it’s called. Should I tell my sister? Or not? .. umm I think that the right thing to do is tell her. If..she finds out it’ll be worst. I’m telling her the truth. Even though I’ll hurt her deeply. One thing is for sure, Ricardo needs that construction job as soon as possible! UGHHHH ! (takes deep breath) I need to calm down before it’s too late, and commit some type of scene in front of all these people. Okay 1-2-3…(takes deep breath). I’m going home and telling Ricardo everything, and it’s all going to be alright (Takes deep breath and leaves the hospital). 

Monologue #2 

My Daddy ! 

(The bell rings, and waits for all the kids to exit the classroom.) Hey! Hey ! Did you drop that? Oh yeah, I forgot that those type of kids don’t like me. Oh well. Like I care. I’m rich and handsome. They’re all ugly anyway. No one likes them either, AHA. I don’t care what anyone has to say or think about my daddy, he’s perfect.  (Exits the classroom fast to avoid the kids.Finds the last lunch table outside near the playground, and starts to eat lunch ). Many of those kids won’t talk to me just because my dad is the owner of the XL keystone pipeline committee. (Stares at the other kids playing). My daddy knows what he’s doing, he says that if this project gets done he’ll buy me that motorcycle I always wanted. AND GOSH, I want that motorcycle ! So many ungrateful kids in this school that they can only think negatives about my daddy’s project. They have to understand that not only will this project benefit me.. but I think he said that it would support the significant growth of crude oil production in the U.S.A. And like ..a few minutes ago Mrs. Mann just done talking about how our country is full of consumers… I mean, she even said I was a consumer. If didn’t know what she meant. Honestly I think she’s crazy, I only throw away what’s not useful to me. Although when she started talking about how this pipeline can contaminate the drinking water, then it was when I started.. I started… when I started to reflect. If the pipeline starts to leak my daddy will be in serious problems. Like Mrs. Mann said, we are either ; slowly killing the earth, or were making a difference. I honestly do care about the environment, but daddy is always talking about how he wants and wants and wants more money.Um.. I think I have to talk to my daddy about this. It’s a serious thing that if it goes wrong, mommy is going to be very mad about. Those kids over there deserve respect and their families too, and I have to understand that maybe those families have their reasons for not wanting this project but it’s hard for me to understand that. My dad is my hero and I would never like to see him fail, he really wants this thing done, I guess I’m just scared to tell my daddy that sometimes I don’t agree with him. He would never forgive me, so I have to maintain him happy. (bell rings and starts to go inside the classroom again). 


Monologue # 3 

I Quit !

(Stands outside with a serious face on with a gun in his hand). Hey boss ! Yeah I know, if anyone gets near the house I have orders to arrest them… and yes sir, I know that..that..if I don’t get this job done there will be consequences... Ughh.. (takes deep breath) thank god he left..I hate everyone! If you weren’t my boss you wouldn’t continue to live right now.. but now I have to take care of business. What should I get for lunch today, a big mac, some cheesedicks, lunchables, or maybe..I don’t know.. HEYYYY!! HEYY! You in the red, you can’t pass beyond this point. If you don’t like it, I’ll have to arrest you. Look I do understand the fact that you and your friends are here because you want to stop the pipeline but there’s nothing I can about it. I just want to do my job, so please step away… thank you. Ugh. I hate this job.. and the people that make this job harder. I don’t even want to be here, if wasn’t for my daughter that needs the money, I would quit. Ughh.. Sometimes I wonder why so many people gather together for this one little thing. Maybe it’s because (looks around the area) everything is just so fucked. Our land, water, air and even our bodies are contaminated by pollution and all of that shit including fossil fuels. (Looks behind him, at the white house) and.. what can I say about them! The people inside of there are so corrupt, that wealth and power makes them blind, it sickens me.  Maybe the people (turns around to the protesters) there are standing up to speak out for the protection of their families, and friends.. but..but..most important for the earth we were blessed with! UGHH! I’m always so and so angry at the world.Every time I think about it,  maybe it’s because I have to accept the fact that they still have that spirit that died in me a while ago. About change, about changing this world. Maybe I don’t want them to fight for what they believe in, because I couldn’t do it, so they can’t either!  (takes deep breath and looks down at the ground)  It’s nobody else’s fault but mine. I’m the one who failed, why should they? There is nobody to blame than me, I deserved what I earned, and now I have to live with it.(Puts head down and takes deep breath).  OHHH! Yes sir, I heard you. Look I’m trying my best, you don’t have to keep yelling at me.  I wasn’t going to arrest that poor woman.. what do you mean why not?.. I.. I.. quit. If you want to fire me, go ahead. You’ll have my written waiver first thing tomorrow. And sir, I’m gladly informing you that I’m joining the protest this afternoon because I don’t want to make the same mistake again.. Umm what mistake? Oh.. don’t worry about it, I know my business.And sir, have a lovely day. (walks away, winks and then smiles).


Monologue. I'm.Pregnant from Esperanza Gonzalez on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Caitlin Keough in World History - Block - B on
Part 1: 

This unit we learned all about the Keystone XL Pipeline and we learned the pros and cons of it, regarding the environment, the people, and the economics. The pipeline is proposed to start in Hardisty, Alberta in Canada and will end around Steele City, Nebraska. It would transport about 830,000 barrels of Tar Sands oil a day. There are so many opinions out there surrounding this topic which we explored a lot of, and then they helped us write monologues about the pipeline project.


Part 2:

- It will be 1,179 miles long

(About The Project, TransCanada)

- Pipeline will have a diameter of 36 inches

(About The Project, TransCanada)

- The tar sands oil is under the very large Boreal forest in Alberta. 

(Keystone XL Pipeline, Friends of the Earth)

- it would result in climate-damaging emissions equal to putting more than 5.6 million new cars on the roads in the U.S.

(Keystone XL Pipeline, Friends of the Earth)

- It will require 9,000 American workers.

(Jobs and Economic Benefits, TransCanada)




Part 3:

Daddy’s Job


(Daughter is at school, Dad is picking her up.)


Bye, Samantha! Have a fun weekend! Hey Dad. Yeah, Mom took me to get my haircut on wednesday. Thanks. School was fun. Mmmhhm. What’s that smell? Is something wrong with the car? Oh. What do you even do at work? Well, then why does Mommy hate what you do so much? Why couldn’t you give it up for her? (Pause) Is it because of this nice car? (Pause) Ice cream? Um. No, I think I just wanna go home and play with Sandy. Grandma’s... again? I don’t wanna! (Whines) Why are there so many meetings? I never get to play with you anymore. Yeah, I like all my toys but I wanna play with you. A big project? What kind of project? Pipeline? What’s tha… 1000 miles!? Well, that does sound pretty important I guess. But I still don’t get why Mommy doesn’t like it. Is it cuz the smell. It is pretty gross. Do ya want me to ask her? I… oh sorry. Ok, well what time are you going to pick me up tonight? I’m sleeping over? I don’t have any clothes or pajamas! And I got school tomorrow! Can’t you just take a day off for once? (Whispers) Well is it really that important? (Pause) Oh, I didn’t say anything. I’ll see you tomorrow then. Bye Daddy. (Pause) Hi Grandma. Yeah, his dumb job. I know.



Family First


(Leaving house)


See ya later, honey! Bye kiddos! Love you, too. Yup, Daddy’s gonna bring in the big bucks! Haha! You guys be good to your Momma, alright. Ahh, ok.

(Walks out the door, walks to car) (Sighs)

(Arrives at work) Hey guys. What’s up? We going back to the James’ house today? Alright. What are we doing there, just putting down some sod right? (Sighs) Landscaping is hard work, men. Wish it paid a bit better though, am I right? (Pause) What about the Daytona’s? Wait, what? Why? Sold half their land? To who? What is TransCanada? A pipeline? Over a thousand miles?! That’s ridiculous! Are we really that desperate? What’s that gonna mean for all our customers? Anybody else sold their land? Really? Aw man. Wonder how much they gave ‘em for that piece of land. They wanna make a deal with me? They can have my 2x2 shed. Haha, yeah! Man, I really need this job though. Only source of income for my family. My wife got the kids to take care of while I’m gone and on top of that she’s thinking of going back to school! I need this! (Pause) Maybe this big old company will hire me. I’ll help with this pipeline thing! Destroying the environment? Oh, please! Isn’t everything doing that these days? I gotta keep my family alive. That’s more important to me! Ya gotta do what ya gotta do. Yeah, I know. Alright. Let’s get going.



Biased Boss


(Walks into boss’ office)


Mornin’ Mr. Clark! How are you doing, this fine morning? (Begins to sweep the floors of the office) Aw man, what’s bugging ya? Ah, the pipeline XL? You mind telling me more about this thing? My co-workers have been telling me bit by bit of what they are all hearing, but I don’t got the whole story yet. Course, I’ll keep cleaning while you talk! You’re the boss! Steele City? Now, where is that? Nebraska? Woah! Any idea how far that is? Woah, what’s that number again? I wanna write that down and tell my husband. He won’t believe this! 1,179 miles you said it was? That sure is incredible, sir! And when is this starting? Ohh, Obama’s a good man, he will never be able to turn down something like this! Sounds great! I’m super excited to see how this goes! (Finishes up cleaning the floors) Alright, Mr. Clark it was nice talking to you. It’s my lunch break now. I’ll see you around, have a good day! (Picks up supplies and walks out of the office) (Hovers outside the office for a second and pops her head back in) One last question Mr. Clark, good, old Mother Nature won’t be harmed in any of this,right? You know I love my trees and fresh air, ha! Nothing to worry about? Alright! I’m getting more and more excited! Bye now! (Walks to locker rooms) (Puts stuff away, grabs lunch and bag) (Walks outside and sits on a bench) (Pulls out phone and searches “Keystone Pipeline XL”) “Say No to Keystone Pipeline?” Hate articles already, gosh! (Pause) (Reads article a little) This oil is under a forest? That don’t sound very good. Hmmm. This plan doesn’t really sound as peachy as I thought it was before. (Continues reading)

Family First from Caitlin Keough on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Alexander Wroblewski in World History - Block - B on
​Part I: In this unit of study, we learned about the Keystone XL Pipeline. We learned about all the background info needed to understand the pipeline as well as arguments for and against it. We then learned how to write a good monologue. Now, as our project, we are making monologues about the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Part II: 

1: "On the one hand, the Obama administration is taking important steps forward with investments in renewable energy and the recent power plant regulations. On the other, they’re letting fracking go unregulated, still deliberating on the Keystone XL [crude oil] pipeline, and weakening key international climate policies" SOURCE: INTER PRESS SERVICE 2013-09-27 00:29:00

2: "The fact of the matter is that as the (U.S.) state department itself says, the environmental impacts of the Keystone pipeline are negligible ... In fact it will displace a crude that in many cases comes from not just higher-emitting sources of oil but frankly from places where the environmental standards of production are very poor" SOURCE: THE PROVINCE DAILY NEWS 2013-09-26 22:15:00

3. "Mr. President, please do not make a bilateral agreement approving the Keystone XL based on the government of Canada’s mitigation promises ... While this may seem like a generous offer, Canada simply cannot mitigate the carbon pollution from the pipeline; those emissions would simply be too big. Keystone XL would be directly responsible for the equivalent annual emissions of 51 coal-fired power plants or 37.7 million cars. As a point of comparison, Canada has about 26 million cars on the road" SOURCE: ECOEARTH NEWS 2013-09-24 04:25:00

4. 
"TransCanada keeps insisting the Keystone XL pipeline will be the safest pipeline ever built despite irrefutable evidence to the contrary. In fact they are building the southern portion of the Keystone XL to the lowest permissible standards, just as they have the Keystone 1 and the Bison Pipeline." SOURCE: DESMOGBLOG 2013-09-22 21:47:00
5.
"I don’t think it’s specifically Keystone XL, but I think the challenges that Keystone XL and other pipeline projects have had, and the delays that they have faced, are causing the industry to realize that we need alternatives".SOURCE: NATIONAL POST 2013-09-23 08:38:00
Part III: 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Monologue 1: John


[Enters through door] “Hey, Daddy’s home!” [Walks to living room] “Hey sweetie how are you? You look kinda sad today.... Something happened at school?.. Oh the pipeline, well what’s the problem with it?.. Your friends? Let them protest and stuff, nothing’s gonna change anyway... [Sits down on couch] Well, that’s the thing. This pipeline does a lot of good stuff for us... I mean... Look at this house, look at your TV, your iPhone, and all your other stuff... And look, so many other families will have the same chance. I mean, look at it... Yeah, I don’t need to treat you like a baby, I’m just, you know, worried.


“Let me tell you something, I was a board meeting today and we were talking about this stuff. The risks are worth the reward.... Well I don’t care about the ‘state department’ or the ‘President of the United States’... Well, ok. Yeah, it can leak, it can spill, it can do hundreds of things... The point is that it won’t... I don’t know, ok maybe I should...


“My point being, this pipeline is important! Not just for us but for an entire nation! Sweetie, listen to me... No, it doesn’t matter here. We won’t even see it.... Yes that’s the big oil spill... Yeah, but that was the gulf of mexico, Not here... Wow, is... is that what happened there.. [mutters] So much destruction... [speaks normally] Well in america... Well here in canada...


“Alright honey...  I admit it, it’s dangerous... But not for us... Yes, people can be hurt... Ok, I think it’s homework time for you... [Get’s up and exits]


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Monologue 2: Will


[Walks in door] Hey, man, how are you... Come on, lets sit down.... Actually I’m not sure about that, another protest?... I sympathise man, I really do, but we’re adults, not the free-riding teens we once were... [Waitress walks to table] What would I like to have... Get me a scone... or a muffin... Actually a berry muffin please... And some tea. What about you?.. [Waitress walks away after order]


So are you ready, I mean, we are in DC after all, every protest here is bound to be big. Why don’t I want to come... Well that’s the thing, call me crazy, call me a establishment shill, but I think Keystone XL is one of the keys to fixing our economy. We need to take risks right? And XL constitutes a risk. I know the environmental and health stuff, but damn this needs to go through.


[Waitress comes by and brings food] Thanks... Yeah, I do wish the best of luck to you though... Well, we are all in our own little hell right now, and an oil spill is nothing to the suffering of the poor and the middle class. Right now we have a golden opportunity. The door out of this place is standing right there, but you keep trying to barricade it.... Things aren’t always black and white like they are for you and so many others. There are so many other colors and shades. And this one isn’t all bad.


I have a job, but I’m barely getting by... I have meds to take and all that stuff... You know, when I came in, I was on the fence, but now, I’m more than certain this pipeline has to go through. [alarm beeps] Well... I have a doctors appointment in half an hour so, I’ll see you around...


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Monologue 3: Jack



[Jack is collapsed on couch, wife walks in] Hey honey... Well yeah, really I’m just tired... Look at me, I’m a mess. I have to clean up... But I’m too tired. God this job is killing me.


God, this couch is so comfy... Am I in heaven... Never mind. I need a cold drink, god, I’m thirsty... [Wife leaves and brings drink]


Have you seen the bullcrap safety at the place! Just today I saw Jim nearly get crushed by one of those huge pipes! I’m looking at the thing and I don’t see how it’s going to hold up for more than a year! If this goes through... I don’t even want to think about it.  I mean, what the hell is going on?


I remember when I got this job, I thought it was going to be good. I thought it would help us get back on track and you know... Help us save up for that house... Well I guess that’s all just a dream gone by...


This is supposed to be the thing that helps the economy... Helps us all get back on track. But at what cost? Welcome to hell, North america, you’re taking a page right out of the devil’s playbook.


Ok, that’s it! Tomorrow I’m turning in my two weeks. It’s time for all this to end. I’m going to start looking for an office job tomorrow. I can’t stand that place anymore.


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



monologue from Alexander Wroblewski on Vimeo.

Q1 Monologue- Ameer Holmes, Alejandro Bautista-Garcia

Posted by Ameer Holmes in World History - Block - B on

Monologue #1 - Ameer


(Son of a construction worker of the keystone xl)x2

Two children meet up at a construction site and talk about their father’s work


Peauterbread is sitting on an oily pipe

Peauterbread: aww man I soiled my trousers sitting on this stupid pipe!

Peauterbread: ehh... What

*smacks himself in the face softly

Peauterbread: what is peasant mean?

P: I'm not a kid. I'm 6 years old now

*holds up 4 fingers

P: anyways you don't look too old yourself

P: wow a rich amount of money... must be a lot...

P: Well what’s your name dude

P: Uhhh… ok… My names Peaturbread. My daddy works here... He knows a lot about the keystone XL project they're working on

P: My daddy says that it helps out a lot with the green house gasses...

P: The world has too many greenhouse gasses… wha? So… this is actually bad? Hey! my dad's not stupid!

P: well maybe that's not what my dad said but he's not stupid.

P: my dad says jobs help the economy... So it would be a good thing that he's working here, and those

P: How is what I said dumb? It helps the economoly, or the umm... The umm.. Economy

P: What not true!!! And I never called youuu smart at all.

P: Well no... But my daddy sure knows a lot about the pipeline.

P: whhaaaaaat boooring!!! All i know is that its a one way pipeline and its giving my daddy a way to support his family

P: I’m not a child!

P: I don’t want to hear about this stupid pipeline. It’s just a reason for my father to get a little extra money

P: My father is working on the pipeline.

P: My daddy only needs to work here because he takes care of me by himself… so he needs the extra money.

P: What is divorced mean?

P: Well my mom left when I was 2… so I guess thats what you mean?

P: What do you mean my parents only separated because of me?

P: My Parents do love me!... My daddy does all he can to take care of me… and my mommy only left because he was abusive.

P: Shut UP!!!! you act like your family is sooo perfect, Shut  up!

P: See You have problems too. Don’t go around attacking other people you big hypocrite!

P: Do you think it’s all going to be all right? Because you know your father might get poorer and poorer! Don’t think everything is going to be all right.

P: Wait so you don’t actually like this pipeline? All this time...

(Peauterbread slowly walks away…)

P: How sad.


Who: Son #1 Peauterbread

What:  Talking to a horrible bratty kid

Where: construction one keystone xl

Why: His father works their

How: he is board.. another kid is bored. the other kid walks up for convo… conversation… argument… explain facts about keystone fathers come to pick them up





Monolouge #2- Ameer


Sean walks up

Sean: Peasant!

Sean: peasant. entertain me

Sean: hmf never mind that. What are you doing here? This place isn't for kids.

Sean: I'm 9. and my father is a rich man. He has a lot of money

S: I’m Sean… I don’t really need to know… your name

S: If he knew a lot about the Keystone XL why would he be working here?

S: This world has too many greenhouse gasses, and the Keystone XL emits too much of it. If he thinks that greenhouse gasses help the environment your dad is stupid.

S: He is stupid! He’s definitely not as smart as my father.

S: anyways with those rags you're wearing your family must be working here for the 20,000 jobs it's opening up.

S: Those 20,000 jobs it opens up however, don't help the economy. It’d be killing more jobs than it creates… I know I’m smart, don’t thank me. Hah, you made your father sound dumber than you realise, or maybe you're just the dumb one.

S: Do you actually know anything about this pipeline?

S: well this is a 1700 mile pipeline. So this pipeline will cost a looot of money and make my daddy a lot of money-

S: ugh children… I’m trying to explain to you trash… how this works. Maybe it’s because you’re only a six year old child.

S: This line runs from Canada all the way to the gulf . It’s a one way North American Pipeline.

S: Wait… What does your father do here?

S: Oh haha! He’s one of those guys. Doing manual labor.

S: So. wait your parents are divorced or something?

S: Like Separated

S: Your parents only separated because of you..

S: Your Parents don’t love you.

S: Simple... lame... laborer problems

S: My family is perfect. Or… at least it will be again once my dad makes money off of the pipeline...

S: that’s a big word for a little boy like you… hypocrite… wow! My family is only in a temporary financial crisis. My father made a bad business deal is all.

S: No… No I’m not talking to you anymore… I don’t even like this silly pipeline… Your right. This is probably a bad deal that my father hastily invested in due to some… previous problems.

S: If one thing goes wrong with this pipeline it’s all over… I single pipeline traveling 1700 miles… a 7 billion dollar project… If one thing goes on it’s all over…

(Peauterbread slowly walks away… leaving sean to sulk)


Who: Son #2 Sean Paul Smith the second

What:  Talking to a kid who is poor

Where: construction one keystone xl

Why: His father works their

How: he’s bored.. another kid is bored.he walks up for a convo… conversation… argument… explain facts about keystone fathers come to pick them up





Monologue #3 - Alejandro


News reporter doing a bit on the keystone xl (actual tv)


New’s reporter is standing in front of the camera

News reporter: Bob Robby broadcasting here from Canada vancouver ehhh, I am standing

in front of where the horrendous and maybe unstable pipeline is going to be made it will go

from canada Alberta through The United States of America to the Gulf Coast of Texas

eh, several civilians are concerned by the propaganda because it will destroy the earth and

it will also be too wide in distance in order to cover for spills eh, the makers of this project

and some politicians think this is a cheaper and easier way to get oil from our allies Candanias

civilians all around America and Canada our forming big protest against this horrifying project  they are also forming barriers were the trail of this project will be or chaining themselves to bulldozer and trees ehh this project WILL infact destroy and ruin earth by polluting it and ripping

the land apart. Thank you all for listening good bye canada eh.


Who: Bob Robby the Reporter

What: Doing news on the show

Where: In Tar sands reporting

Why: Because he wants to get paid (he hates his job)

How: Gets cued in to report… Goes to jane the weather girl… Finishes report then contemplates quitting his job.




Monologue #4 -Alejandro


Protesters in  tar sands



Hello everyone my name is Matthew Jones and I’m here protesting about this disgusting

horrible pipeline it will destroy our beautiful mother earth, the way this so called friendly

cheap project will work is by getting oily sand from our friends the indigenous people

and taking all this sand through America until it gets to the goal coast of Texas which

from there it will be refined but what they don’t realized is that we are taking peoples

lands like nothing and also it will raised the pollution in the air!! which will also contribute

to the climate change. Now I am proud that all of us got here to stop this irreversible

disaster, I want you all to stay strong and keep protesting in front of the white house

because they will hear our voices, I’M TELLING YOU THEY WILL HEAR US!!!!.

 

Who: James Mcfarlen

What: Protesting along the construction site

Where: Along the construction site

Why: He is a hippie and cares about nature

How: He camps at tar sands over night then wakes up…Protests... has conversation with another protester… protests again





Monologue #5- Ameer


IM conversation


*Ughh* I  had the hardest day at work/  

This couch is so comfy/

yess.../

lets see… whats on the tv right now/ oh the news, cool i guess/

This global warming crap again/

Oh my god../

wait what this tar sands crap is amazing.../

Let me hit up my girl… Ellie-o/
*typing* hey ellie im watching the news right now and theirs this thing on about tar sands.../

No not tarzand, tar sands! stupid auto correct./

*Typing* no babe  shumafafumma auto correct  *ughhh*./

Why should she care hugh why shoooould she care/

*typing* because did you know…. that uh… that uh… oh that

*typing* it probs gonna create 20,000 jobs, but its a major threat to the environment/

You dont care! oh, oh she doeesn’t care… *typing* well you should care/

how is it a threat? well I’ll tell you… as soon as the news shows me lol/

*typing* oh well it is harder to get  anddddd, it releases more carbon in than other oils/

It’s not my fault your bored with this conversation/

well what do you want me to do/

I’m done with her/ *texting* you know what I’m done with you/

*texting* Not with the relationship bay/ now your getting into some other stuff/

im just going to go to bed now./ what noooooooowww/ She’s always complaining/

*texting* I’m sorry it’s just… It’s just that since we always text I can’t really convey what I really feel to you... I just can’t handle what going on in the relationship./

She is telling me it’s over oh no!/ Fine fine fine… CHUCK FROM ACCOUNTING IS NO LONGER YOUR MAN!!!


Better sound directions

Why are they having the arguement

missing peices


Who: Chuck Fromacounting

What: Im ing  his gf

Where: Home… at dinner… eating lamb

Why: He sees a news segment on his cable tv

How: Comes home from work… Plops down the couch turns on tv its the news…. texts his gf about news… they break up and he goes to bed sleeping alone.

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Christian Moore on
 ​In the early part of the year in World History, we are learning about the Keystone Pipeline XL. We are learning about the benefits and the consequences that the pipeline could bring. The pipeline would be a extension from the already existing Keystone Pipeline, built by Trans Canada. The project is proposed to create around 20,000 jobs for American but only about 30 people will be able to keep those jobs one the pipe is built. The 7 billion dollar project is also projected to make a total of 20 billion dollars. The only problem with this is by building this pipeline we now have a opportunity to damage the land beyond repair.


                                            Facts About Keystone Pipeline XL
1. Has a projected inservice date of 2016
2. Creates green house gasses
3. Would contribute to climate change
4. Run from Alberta to refineries in Texas
5. Cost 7 billion dollars to build



Monologues


Presidents Speech


Were set to go live in 30 seconds and i still don't have my water.   (Clears throat ) 5 years ago, a friend came to me and asked me to read something over for him. SO I told him sure and kept on with my day. About a month later my schedule allotted me some time to read over this document presented to me from my northern friends in Alberta, ( Quickly Clears throat ). It was a proposed document to extend a pipeline that runs through the great plains of our majestic country and you know what I did. ( quick sarcastic laugh ). Well when I got back to him a couple of months later I told him its plausible. I mean why not right, creates jobs for our depriving economy. Why not, if it brings in millions of dollars more in tax money. I don't see a problem with that I stated. But being the democracy this is, I figured before I made any big decision I would talk it over with the people. And when I mentioned the idea of the pipeline expanding, I got mixed reactions. Reactions of joy and reactions of sadness, reactions of hatred and of approval. So I got back to this friend again and told him that we as a group of united people will talk over the proposal another time and as soon as we came to a definite decision I would let him know. Here we are 4 years later and still have not made up our minds. Maybe because we have been focusing on bigger things such as the war and funding the troops, but I feel we have waited long enough. We as a people need to decide, make a decision. Weigh the benefits and consequences of our choice. Should we go with the benefits we see beforehand. Or should we take a chance with the environment. Well personally I’d love to call my friend back and say sure, you can start building tomorrow, but I’m not sure that can happen. I am not sure we want to damage the environment beyond repair by taking a risk a chance a leap of faith. I don't think thats what we should do America, but at this point its not up to me its up to you.        



The Alberta News



“Hi, my name is Jeff Hankrich and I am reporting to you live at the building of the Keystone Pipeline XL. (walks around trying to get a better idea of what's going on) Here at the scene, there are hundreds of people, from corporate executives to angry mobs blocking the construction site. I mean it’s just ridiculous out here. To get a better view, we’ll go inside the crowd to find out exactly why all of these people are here. ( whispers “pss come on” for the camera man to follow ). Here with me today is Ms. Cindy Lou who traveled all the way from right here in our beloved city of Alberta, Canada to tell us exactly what is happening here. ( Says I see every now and then ). Well folks this is just in, Ms. Cindy Lou told us that the oil executives have lied to us and don't care about the safety of the pipes, they just want the money. Wow, I don't know who to trust anymore. Lets go inside enemy lines and get there take on the statement made by American Cindy Lou. Ok folks were here with Russ Girling to get his views on the matter. Hello Russ, I would like to know what you think on the whole pipeline idea.... Well you heard it here first on Alberta's number one news station Transcanada CEO Russ Girling feels these reports are outrageous and says we need to keep our oil out the middle east. Well I don't know about you but that idea sounds pretty good to me. We’ll keep you updated on the situation happening here but remember, protecting the environment is key to being able to live here for years to come.

 

The Protest


Hello chief,

Sargent Buchanan told me that I was supposed to come here to fill out a report on the surveillance of the protest.. Thank you sir... do you have a pen I can borrow... I appreciate it... Ok so here is what happened today, the construction workers came to the sight as planned. And protesters threw themselves on the ground the the vehicles were supposed to be working. ( Sighs ). I just don't stand the inconsideration of those people. Just not too much goes on in this here. Where was I sir,... thanks, so like I was saying, the trucks were there as planned and these protestors just threw themselves on the ground ground making sure the workers could not get through. At this point Sargent Buchanan called in for back up but since its such a small town he found out we were the only troopers in the state of Nebraska. So he pulled out his megaphone and started shouting orders, (takes a sip of tea) and by that point every last one of them put there hands in front of them as if they were saying arrest me. But as we both knew there was not enough prison vacancies in the state to arrest these people. So we thought starting the truck would surely scare them away. But we were wrong. Its like they were fighting to save something. It was deeper than just some pipe being built. It brought all different types people throughout the state together. Its like this all had a meaning now. They were fighting for what they call home. They didn't want to see the land destroyed by the chemicals running through that pipe. Now I see why they did it, I understand how they felt. After all they need food and shelter just like the rest of us. So you see chief, I feel we should let them protest them fight, they are standing up for themselves.. ( takes pause ) they are protecting the only thing they know as home.







Keystone Pipeline XL from christian on Vimeo.

The Pipeline Worker, Ted D. and The Lost Dog

Posted by Lindsey Jones in World History - Block - B on
​

For  the last few weeks in World History we’ve been studying the background and origin of the Keystone XL Pipeline. For those who don’t know, the Keystone XL Pipeline is a 1,179 mile crude oil pipeline that is proposed to be built and in service by 2015. The main purpose of the pipeline is to give American and Canadian oil producers access to a wider range of oil refining markets across America. The class spent a lot of time watching and listening to different opinions and movements toward the pipeline. There were many that opposed and gave solid facts to why the pipeline is dangerous and detrimental to America, then there were those who gave facts, that later turned out to be inaccurate and/or exaggerated. We were then given the assignment to write three different monologues from the perspectives of three different people and/or things towards the pipeline. These are the monologues I’ve written from those perspectives.


Brief facts about the Pipeline: 

  • The TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline is intended to be built and in service by 2015 and will stretch from Canada to Texas.

  • Will stretch a total of 1,179 miles between Canada and United States and will transport 830,000 barrels of oil everyday.

  • Will cost an estimated total of $5.3 billion US dollars.

  • According Dr. James Hansen, if the pipeline were to break and cause an oil spill, it would be “game over” for our environment.

  • About 7,000 US jobs are being supported through TransCanada’s need for pipeline materials.

  • About 4,000 US employees have been hired by TransCanada in Oklahoma and Texas.

  • 60% of the oil that is produced is from different countries.



The Pipeline Worker


(Sue drops her bundle of keys three times before exiting her home as she is stalked by her orange cat. The day is gloomy and the sun is shining between every section of the window blinds. Sue closes the front door in a silent hurry and heads down her long set of stairs)


I hate being late. It’s not exactly one of those things that leave people with a good impression of you, right? It’s like you don’t care about anyone but yourself and no one buys your excuses anymore. (She pulls her hair out of her face as her feet hit each step with heavy stomps)You see- I was up all night watching jeopardy and helping with homework at the same time. My job calls for me to be there every weekday at 9 am, but that doesn’t give me enough time to get my girls ready for school that starts at 8:30.  


(She trips over a small log merged into the landing)


SHIT- ow…Did anybody see that? (She looks to both sides of her frantically. When realizing no one was there, she continued on). Anyway… The bills have been piling up. Electricity is the most expensive thing around this place. And since my deadbeat husband doesn’t want to give me money for anything, the bills stay. It’s not like it matters really. This new job I’m taking up should pay more than what his salary is. So I don’t have to worry about asking him for squat. When I save up enough, I can actually get the heck outta here. Plus, since this thing is going be up and running by 2015, i’ll have a steady job for the next few years.


(Sue unchains her bike and takes off down the road)


So yeah- my husband- well- the guy who isn’t really a husband but just someone who put a ring on my finger- is a shrub. He could be taking this job instead of me, but he decides to literally stay home all day. I want him, but then again, I don’t. He used to be so ambitious until the accident he had a few years ago. Now he just lays in the dark, with a bucket of tubes and screws filling in as his heart.


--OH C’MON LADY! (Sharply putting on her brakes, Sue’s hair whips her in the face).What type of driving is that?! Are you blind or just plain stupid? ..See these are the type of people I have to deal with every damn day. A bunch of morons if you ask me. And no- I’m not some sort of hothead who blows up at every little thing, that woman just doesn’t know how to make a u-turn and someone needs to tell her about it. I could be late for work-all of us drivers could be late and it’d be all because a giant rhinoceros fairy can’t see even if her eyes are open.


(She drives under a short tunnel, splashing some mud water on the sides of her shoes. She sighs heavily in disgust)


I just can’t wait for this day to be over. I hardly know much about construction, or any type of architecture at that. I got turned onto this job by some guy on the bus. He said the ladies barely have to do anything but push a couple of buttons and bring water to the men. Easy paycheck if you ask me...The guy was sweaty and musty. I don’t really pay attention to guys like that or anyone for that matter, but he seemed to know what he was talking about.


(Reaching the end of the tunnel and out into daylight, Sue rides into a dead end. It was a dirt field that’s already occupied by some visitors)


He said that it would be an easy paycheck, but the price to pay was actually ruining the Earth itself. It’s not that I don’t care about the global warming theory and climate change and blah-blah-blah, It’s just that I’m sick of hearing about it. The moment the Earth came into existence is when it starting slowly falling apart. We’re just speeding up the process.


I mean, the entire project isn’t perfect. But the benefits outweigh the non-beneficial aspects. I skimmed through a little brochure after I first got hired. Apparently, all of the hype about the pipeline being dangerous and filled with crude tar oil sands is just a bunch of bloated drama. A bunch of know it alls claimed that crude tar oil sands were the dirtiest and most dangerous out there. But it was proven that oil sands were no more corrosive than any other heavy crudes. Even in some cases they seemed to be less corrosive.


Our economy is supposed to improve as well, which means there is going to be more money pumping into the pockets of hardworking Americans like myself. Taxes will increase in about $5 billion. This will go into the communities across the nation and will help educate our children. I mean it sounds too good to be true but look-....


(Approaching the gates to the TransCanada pipeline site, she is yelled at by nearby protesters)


What is with these people? Why are you guys yelling at me? I’m just doing my job it’s not my fault.


How exactly am I adding to the problem? I didn’t ask for them to build this thing now did I?!

I am just trying to provide for my children!


(The screams and shouts of the protestors get louder. Sue reads the signs that are being held)


Tar sands and oil spills? If It’s built right nothing will happen! America can have future. Our kids can have a future don’t you guys understand. It’s not my fault. My husband can’t work! What am I supposed to do?


(Sue disappears into the crowd. Shouting and defending herself from the painful reality the crowd has given to her).




Ted D.



(Ted is heading to the station wagon with a tall businessman by his side. It is raining heavily and fog is thick)


I have never aspired to be anything. Mainly because the thing that I am supposed to be, has already been chosen for me. I am not really the ambitious type person either. I spend a lot of my time reading or watching UFO documentaries. There isn’t much to do at my home other than that. My parent’s aren’t around so I’ve been secluded to the role of being a latchkey child.


Today I’m supposed to be going to a lame pipeline press conference my dad is working on. It’s hard to call him my dad, honestly. I wish I could say it without feeling a bit empty inside. He used to leave me at my aunts house for days to weeks when I younger and wouldn’t come back unless reminded to. He’s not a very good dad either. (Ted grabbed onto the dripping wet handle of the black Range Rover. He had to play with it a bit before the door unlocked from the inside)


(He gets into the passenger side of the car and waits patiently for Fred to turn the ignition). I might sound like a entire emotional wreck here, but I’m really not. I do fun things. However, the ratio for fun and work is pretty uneven and really unfair in most cases. My dad wanted me to memorize a bunch of important information about the pipeline that boosts his revenue. Because ya know, hearing it from a completely “innocent” kid will bring more supporters than from a man in a suit.

(He holds onto thick deck of index cards with dozens of paragraphs on them. He cracks his window, letting in thick cool air. Fred immediately rolls his window back up)


(Ted turns to Fred, shocked and says in a whiny voice..) What are you doing? It’s like an oven in here...You know it’s pretty rude to do something like. I can tell my dad… My dad DOES care about me. He just isn’t around enough to show it thats all. Mind your business please.


(There was a brief silence before Ted decided to break the silence).


Ask me something about the pipeline. I need to rehearse these cards for dad and I’m trying memorize as much as possible… “...introducing the pipeline to America will bring more jobs to us and more ways to keep America, American”..(He raised an eyebrow) Did a five year old write this? Do these people actually buy this load of crap? (He sincerely stared at the profile of Fred’s face) Do you?


...Yeah it’s your job but shouldn’t you be doing something with your life that actually makes you happy and you know...something that will help the world?…I’m not being rude, I’m just saying the truth. You know my dad better than anyone so...what’s he like?


...Just as I expected, I guess. I don’t trust him at all so when he asked me to speak for him, I was really reluctant. I looked up a bunch of information about the pipeline and knew it was too good to be true. You know what he told me? That there was nothing to worry about and to just do what he said. But the sad thing is, he lied to me.


I’ve got to talk about how the pipeline would reduce American dependence on foreign oil, when in reality that’s a big fat lie! (His voice was high in anger). The oil that Canada transports to American refineries will be sold in different markets all over the world! They’re going to take the cheap Canadian oil and turn into diesel so they can sell it in Latin America and Europe. A good amount of the oil from the pipeline isn’t even going to reach American gas tanks!


I called this one with common sense. If that pipeline breaks, our entire environment is going straight to hell. The spill would be the equivalent, or worse than the BP oil spill. Keystone even predicted that there would 1 spill every 7 years, but there have already been 12 in one year. These idiots are getting the pipe materials from the same Indian manufacturer that sold them the faulty pipes in the first place! (He started to calm down and his voice lowered.). And the animals...our wildlife would be toast.


(Ted looked down at his note cards, his hands were shaking) I’m sorry. I’m just sick of being fed of bunch of lies and being forced to take them and stride. I have to swallow my tongue because the big guy is my father.


...Wait..you’ve know all about  this? Why haven’t you said anything?



(He looked at his deck of cards.)I plan on swapping this deck for a more refined and innovated version if you know what I mean. It’s time someone tell the truth and I may just be the one kid that has to do it…(He crumbled them into his hands).


What are you smiling at Fred?



-Lost Dog-


(A small weiner dog waddles around a crowd of humans that resembled giants in his eyes. He and these beings were outside of a Keystone XL pipeline construction site. The humans used their bodies to keep the pipe from being built.)


I’ve never seen so many angry faces everywhere before. Definitely not my family. My family is nice and the kids always give me extra beef jerky before bedtime.


(The dog stopped in his tracks and perked it’s small ears up in excitement). OH LOOK AT HIS BEARD. ITS SO LONG. AND SO MANY HAIRS. (He admired the long brown hairs of a tall man).


(The dog continues to quickly walk around the crowd. Directionless). Sorry... I get distracted so easily. I got lost from my family a few days ago while we were at the beach. They were trying to clean up some birds that had gotten caught in an oil spill nearby. I felt sorry for the poor fluttery things. They wouldn’t have been able to fly away from me if they tried. A few seconds later, I caught myself chasing this really pretty squirrel and sort of got lost on the way. I’ve been through dog hell, I can say the least.


I’ve had to trek through little creeks with tons of trash filling them. I couldn’t eat any fish of course because they’re weren’t any. I almost got run over twice. And I’ve had to either sleep in cold puddles or on top of street steamers because of the constant change in temperatures. My coat isn’t very thick either so I guess you could say it’s been a pretty hectic few days for me.


(The dog is picked up by one of the protestors abruptly)


Woah! What are you doing? (His objections sounded like loud barks to his kidnapper). My ears are pretty sensitive, so if you keep yelling like that I may run away. If you’re planning on taking me home with you I would like you to atleast contact my owner. I have a chip so you can do that okay?


(The dog stopped struggling upon realizing he wasn’t being hurt). I can’t understand a word these people are saying. I wish they would talk in those nice voices like my family does. But the imagery is compelling enough for me to pay attention and they seem to try to be making a case. (He looked in all directions of the crowd. Mainly at the signs)



That sign has a group of humans looking sad as they walk...away from a building? They look like they’re crying. It’s kind of similar to that time when Daddy came home upset from his awful long time away. He said he was usually gone 8 hours, but for me it seemed like an eternity. After that he stayed home almost everyday.


Wow! That woman over there is very intense. She’s saying “STOP TAR SANDS!”. I don’t know what tar sands are, but they seem to make her upset. Maybe they’re a bad thing? (The dog looked to a couple holding a series of enlarged pictures of animals covered in oil).


They’re just like the birds from the beach! Except there’s a cat, a fish, a penguin...a dog. Would I end up just like the birds covered in oil at the beach? I won’t be able to run around and play anymore?


“Keystone is not accounting for the wildlife that this pipeline will affect! Thousands of animals will perish at the hands of the greedy people who care for no one else but themselves! Your pipeline will cross through many agriculture lands, fisheries, the rivers of Missouri and Niobrara! Such pollution from this pipeline of death will cause carbon emissions to rise and ultimately our environment will be doomed!” ‘


(The dog intently listened to the foreign words of the woman. His attention was then caught by a large, grey headed man).


“The SDEIS haven’t been doing their job…” (The man was old, and couldn’t yell as loud as the crowd. “...The extraction and refinement of the tar oil sands effects GHG emissions way more than other conventional oil. Adding the pipeline to these emissions will cause a 12-23 million metric ton of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Nothing short of the emissions that 2-4 coal-power plants give off. These emissions are being underestimated by over 20%”


(The old man began coughing and the dog continued to look. The old man was so big, he had just noticed the tiny human by his side.) Hey...That looks like Matilda! I mean, it’s not Matilda but it could be! I know her scent anywhere!  (The girl had dirty golden hair and studded blue eyes). Why...why is she crying? Is this making her sad? The pipeline? The pipeline must be the problem here. That is why everyone looks upset.



(The dog is put down and left to roam. He begins barking and running down the road, signifying his support of the protest).






Resources:
​http://www.tarsandsblockade.org/
http://keystone-xl.com/about/the-project/
http://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/tag/keystone-xl-pipeline/
http://www.nrdc.org/energy/keystone-pipeline/

Pipeline Monologue Project

Posted by Mitchell Berven-Stotz in World History - Block - B on
​1. This unit has been about the environment and, more specifically, the Keystone XL oil pipeline. The unit was about studying peoples reactions and understanding of the environment. The pipeline is an oil pipeline that goes from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. I learned about the pipeline, and about the problems with oil refinement and transport in general, from both an economic and an ecologic level. 

2. Facts about the Pipeline:
-The pipeline is 2147 total miles. (Keystone XL Pipeline, Wikipedia.org)
-Creates the emissions of 5.6 million cars. (Keystone XL Pipeline ,FOE.org)
-Pumps 830,000 barrels a day. (Keystone XL Pipeline ,FOE.org)
-Will cost US approximately $5.3 billion. (About The Project, TransCanada)
-Will require over 9,000 American workers. (Jobs and Economic Benefits, TransCanada)

3. Monologues

Above Ground

Hi folks. Now, this may come off a bit odd to you people, but I’m a piece of the ground. Now, I bet you're wondering why this even matters? Well, the truth is, I have feelings too. And this pipeline thing? That is a serious no-no for me. I live in South Dakota, along the edge of the state. I like where I live, its nice, there is some local wildlife, friendly people, but not very many. And, you know what, my already low amount of neighbors will be getting smaller. If you are wondering why, then the blame goes to the Keystone XL Pipeline. This monstrous excuse of a American economic boom is a sickening piece of destruction, that is trying to directly inject poison into my body. And you know what? I like my body.

Where to start! So, the people building this pipeline think it is a nice addition to my body to stick a giant, long, obtrusive pipe straight through me, sitting in front of my face? Though I may be in an area with a low level of inhabitants, that doesn’t mean I want a construction project in the way, scaring off the wildlife and making the nature around me look terrible and unnatural.

Now, a pipeline is ugly enough from a physical direction. What happens when that pipeline is damaged? The oil, of the very corrosive tar sands variety, comes pouring out, gallons upon gallons a minute. This stuff is terrible? Now, I won’t get into how bad the mining process is, but it kills. This oil, when getting into the water, straight up murders any animal that drinks from that water. Some parts of this pipeline go over water sources for not just small woodland animals, but humans! You guys are poisoning yourself over a stinking pipeline, and you don’t have effective enough ways of getting it out. And the carbon dioxide coming out of this crack? Are you guys trying to make me look like a chain smoker? You humans say you are trying to cut down on C02 emissions, but the pipeline is effectively adding the emissions of 5.6 million cars, in the Unites States only.

If this hasn’t been clear for you listening, let me make it clear. I hate this pipeline. Hate it! It is filling the ground with poisonous, cancer giving goo that gets on and in everything you humans and the wildlife ever could possible touch. It makes me look ugly, pours stuff on me, and makes me stink. But, even more so than that, it makes me lose all respect for you humans as a race. You are the ones killing yourselves with this. It may turn me into a plague ridden monster, but it won’t kill me. I can’t die. I just sit there. All of the actual damage is done to you and your resources. It makes me sad.


The Angry Canadian


Dear TransCanada,

I am a mother of three living in Alberta, Canada, near the Boreal Forests. I am writing with a desperate plea to the board. This operation, the Keystone XL pipeline, is a destructive menace to my cherished community. I believe that you will be responsible for a large amount of damage to the local environment, and that you need to take responsibility by cancelling the pipeline project.

The project is just a generator of poison. The use of tar sands oil is the major problem. Tar sands oil is a destructive thing. It’s refinement revolves around pumping water and heat to extract bitumen, which the oil is refined from, which fills the water with toxic sludge! They are using drinking water. Our drinking water! This is a huge problem. My children drink this water! They breathe this air! What are you trying to pull here? The things you are releasing into the system are giving people cancer! Do you want to give my children cancer? I don’t think you have any right to be making this pipeline.

Do you know whatcha’ve done?You’ve gone and made a canadian woman angry. Believe me, we’re not the folks who get angry over every little thing, but when we’re mad, we’re mad. You know those forests I mentioned? Do you know where those are? That’s right, they WERE where you are drilling. But, you know what, not anymore. You tore down those those forests? And the caribou? The endangered caribou? What about them you wonder? Oh, I’ll tell you all about them. You killed them! That’s what you did! You are trying to kill my children! You are giving indigenous people cancer! And, now, you do it all by killing a precious natural site, and its caribou? I’m going to write some more strongly worded letters now!

Yours Disgustingly,

Theresa Mcintosh


Biased Toy Story

(A boy, four years of age, is playing with a set of trains. He is being questioned by reporters.)

Oh, you want me to tell you about daddy’s new pipeline? That thang he is helping get built out there aaaallllll the way across ‘murica? Well, lemme tell you all about it. Daddy and his company are making a BIIIG pipe, to move all of the oil from Canadia. You know, Canadia is a reaaally long way from Dallas. Thats where I live. Daddy’s friends are moving the oil 2147 miles. Daddy has never said a big word like that before. Well, he only says that when talking about money. Daddy says we will get lots of oil, and lots of money! And the money means more toys for me!

(Little boy turns to continue playing when he hears the inaudible response from the reporters.)

What? You said that the pipe is gonna be bad? Well, daddy says the pipe will be very good! He says that it will give lots of people jobs! There will be lots of stuff to build, and the pipe will give lots of people jobs building it. So, lots of people will have jobs and the pipeline is very, very good for you guys!

And, and, the pipeline, it gives lots of money to America! Now, daddy told me that America had to give all of its money to buy guns from China, so I have to work hard and bring millions of millions of dollars into America. So, what the oil is doing is giving lots of money to America, so they can pay back China, and so I can get lots of money and buy more toys!

(Child is in tears by now. It is the beginning of a temper tantrum.)

What about the dying trees? I don’t care. Trees die to make paper, so they die to make toys and oil and more toys. I don’t care what you say. The oil is good. Daddy says it is good, and the people that daddy talks to say it is good. So, it has to be good. Shut up! Leave! Daddy, these mean people are saying that I need to read more about the earth! Make them go away!



4.Videos

Pipeline Monologue from Mitchell Berven-Stotz on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project - Zoe Schwingel-Sauer & Mali Fenning

Posted by Zoe Schwingel-Sauer in World History - Block - B on
Part 1: In our world history class these past few weeks we have been learning about the Keystone Pipeline. We have explored the pros and cons both economic and environmental. We spent a good chunk of this unit looking at the opinions on the pipeline. Come project time we created monologues that took a stance on the pipeline or climate. 

Part 2: 
1. The proposed pipeline is 1,179 miles long. (keystone-xl.com)
2. The U.S. consumes 15 million barrels a day. 60% of that oil is imported from other countries. (350.org)
3. The U.S. imports 2.4 million barrels from Canada daily. (350.org)
4. $7 billion proposed pipeline. (keystone-xl.com)
5. September 19, 2008 is when TransCanada first submitted the proposal. (350.org)

Part 3: 

Ben Saunders(Zoe)


(Pacing back and forth in living room/pulling hair looking stressed/squeezing stress ball)


“I don’t know. I don’t know. I don’t know. This could be such a good opportunity but it’s not officially going to happen, yet. Being an assistant for the editor of a newspaper isn’t as glamorous as it might appear. All I do is fetch coffee, copy papers, and answer phone calls. I’m dying in my cubicle every day. I need to get out. I’m trapped and I need to get out. Ever since Kate died nothing’s been the same. She used to make me happy about my job….used to meaning past. I find no joy in what I do now. What would my boss think...Quitting my job as his personal assistant for working on a job that isn’t even secured--what a joke! Ughh. It would be much better pay though. I could pay all of my rent and still have leftovers, wait no daughters, daughters, daughters! How could I forget?! My sole reason for getting a new job is for my girls. Always my girls. Pipeline, right! Think about pros. The biggest one in my mind is keeping oil dependency away from the Middle East. God I hate the Middle East. All Kate ever tried to do was help those people and what happens?!! She ends up never returning home. Right. Moving on. Other pros.  Umm the pay? Well of course that’s a pro geesh. Us Nebraskans would majorly benefit from increased tax revenue. But what about being away from my girls...could I manage? No that’s selfish; would they be okay?  Nannies. I should look into that. The contract for the pipeline is in my bedroom. I miss Kate. She would know what to say. (Pause squeezing stress balls really hard) Why is this even called a stress ball? Is it supposed to relieve it because it sure isn’t helping. It probably induces it. I would go out and buy a different stress toy but this is Nebraska so I highly doubt I’ll find one at the corner store. Uh so uh right the contract. I’ve heard it is bad for the environment? Well erm it’s going to create jobs--jobs that I so desperately need. The environment isn’t the most important thing to consider it’s the people! And the people need jobs. (Pause, in deep thought) I’m going to do it! It’s the right thing for my family! Obama won’t be able to say no to the proposal….it’s for the good of the people afterall, right? Yes, right! I’ll call Roger and quit right away and sign the contract. It’s a done deal. My girls will be so happy. Happy.”




Joannah Luns(Zoe)


(Driving in police car to protest; to contain protesters...excited...talking to partner Rachel)


“Joannah Luns Saves Community from Rowdy Protesters! Tomorrow’s headline I tell ya. Good cop saves the day. Okay so maybe not that exact wording, but how awesome would that be if it actually happened?! Oh come on Rachel don’t act like you don’t want to be in the newspaper as well. No I never said that. I don’t want this job for the attention….I just think it would be nice that’s all. Whatever. You can be pissy all you want. Let’s get out now and go help out.

(Walks to protesting group)

Okay everyone I’m going to need you to listen up. We need to keep this protest calm and violence free. Now I can only do this with your help so I would appreciate cooperation. No need for that language sir. I care about the safety of the people at this moment. Uhhm uhh yeah I mean of course I know about the pipeline; who doesn’t?! Oh you want me to tell you about it? Well you see I really don’t think I’m the right gal for ya! Lemme find you Rachel! RACHEL! No there’s not a problem I just wanted you to help me out over here….Sorry for yelling but you know that’s the only way I could get your attention.

(A man starts talking about pipeline)

You want to talk? Umm I suppose I could sir. Yeah okay just a second. Go on now! Uhh well no sir I didn’t know that. Or that. Um wow 1,179 miles yeah that’s quite a lot. There’s not much I can do sir. $7 billion?!! Sorry sir. Well I-I-I-I’ll try my best sir.

(Walks over to Rachel)

Rach did you hear the man? Well he did mention that tar sands is up to 19% more greenhouse gas intensive than conventional fuel and that it’s nearly impossible to clean up! No I didn’t go soft! I just uh had an emphimy? Well you go listen to them and try to not be affected! 1.5 million people could be affected if there’s a spill Rach. That’s a whole lot of people. No I’m not trying to save the world….but there’s no harm in trying….right? Well okay be a debbie downer. Uh sir? Yeah you. Well if it’s okay with you I’ll sign the petition thingy you’ve got there. Yes the one about preventing the pipeline, what other one would I be talking about? Sorry that was a little snappy. Can I try to get the entire station to sign?...that’s a pretty big task. No worries I’ll still give it ago. You have a good day, too sir. Good luck!”




Native American Man(Mali)

(Sits with his family outside at a picnic table talking with his family when his son mentions the Keystone XL pipeline)

“Well Ryan the government will never end their constant picking on the oppressed, repressed or depressed. Yes we are certainly the oppressed. No one cares about the Natives they never have and they probably never will. You don’t think we are the oppressed? Well then tell me why the government wants to build a pipeline through our land? We cannot turn the other cheek any longer; we must act. We are just as American, no even more American than any of those white folks. And these white men want to dig in our land and destroy it for what... oil.” (son starts to speak but he cuts her off) “No son, the only way to get tar sands oil is by destroying our land... our earth. And for some reason our president is not understanding that and that my family is why we have to take a stand. I would walk and march for days if it meant that my ancestors land would not be destroyed. (louder and angry) And I refuse for any more of our ancestors land that they natured and lived on to be striped away from them.” “ Because family look to your left, look at that fresh water flowing in that creek. (points to left) That water would no longer be the pure water we swim in in the summer. It would be the tar sands water.  (sad but still has passion in his voice) And I can’t... I just cannot deal with that. After today, I will be going to Washington D.C. and I will be one of those thousands protesting and risking arrest.” (answers to wife) “Yes I know it is dangerous –– but I won’t be there alone. There are thousands of people that feel the same way I do. The same way we do, and the president has to listen to his people. Because the last time I checked this is America, which is apparently the home of the brave.  Our history as Indians is traditional and conservative; I will not fight the government, but I will stand for I believe in. And I hope family you will join me.”





Sasha Obama(Mali)



(Walks into lobby and starts to talk to her father’s secretary Anita Decker)



“Hey Ms. Anita.” “Oh what? No nothing nothings wrong. Just a long day thats all. I mean you know how school is.” (hoping to dodge the question) “You don’t know how school is? Well didn’t you go when you were a kid? I mean your experience probably wasn’t that much different from mine. I mean just because my dad is… well you know who he is... doesn’t mean my school experience is somehow magically and crazily different from yours.” “ But anyway thats not important. I had a great history class today. It was quite controversial actually. It was about those pipelines. . .You know, Keystone XL its called I think. Have you ever heard of it? ”  “Yeah I know he talks about them a lot; that’s why I was thinking of talking to him” “Well you know they can be quite detrimental to the environment, and climate change, did you know it is predicted to spill every seven years and ––” (talking faster and a little louder) “Well actually predictions do mean something. Predictions could show life or death. I mean all those people that stood in front of this house. Did you know there was 1253? That’s 1253 people that believe those predictions Anita, and thats a lot of people. Don’t you think?” “And I think those people are right and I think those people are brave!” “And Ms. Anita, didn’t you know that the pipeline would probably kill more jobs than make jobs?” “Where did I learn this? Well my history teacher and and the Internet. You know theres a lot of environmental websites out there and they are really great actually!” (quieter)“ Well yeah, I know its all up to my father. But – Yes Ms. Anita I know he has a lot of thinking to do. Yes Yes I know I’m young, but that doesn’t mean I can’t understand.” “Do you know when he will be finished with meeting?” “Soon... ok.. I’ll just tell him exactly what I just told you and he’ll understand right?” “I think he will.” (The presidents office door opens) “Oh hi Daddy.”



William Peterson(Mali & Zoe)


(Grandfather sits in living room in a large chair staring at a old picture of his grandson/talking to grandson)


“Yes Rob I realize how much this matters to you. I get that you’re into all this environmental stuff. Yes stuff I don’t know all the tree hugging activities you do. Yes it is Rob. I mean it’s true….Well I don’t know what else you want me to call you. Oh you want me to call you an environmentalist hunh? Well thats just too long and I mean what even is that anyway, Robby? Uh-huh ok. Yup sure. Just listen, I’m trying to sympathize with you but it’s pretty much impossible! You’re only thinking of yourself. It’s not that I don’t want to understand, it’s just that I can’t. The benefits of this pipeline would majorly outweigh the cons. Our economy would vastly improve but I guess you wouldn’t know that because you majored in environmental-whatever. The pipeline won’t leak and damage waterways Rob. This is a safe way to go about it. It is the RIGHT way to go about it. Our family has been involved with oil drilling companies for generations! Sorry if I find it a little hard to understand why you’ve suddenly changed. Oh come on now, it was suddenly! Last I remember you couldn’t stop talking about how much fun drilling oil will be. Yes you got a degree in environmentalism, but you also wasted tons and tons of money Rob! The job that has been in our family for years doesn’t make you lose money; you GAIN money. Do you even have a job? Being a leader of protests is not what I meant and you know it. What did I mean?!! Are you serious??!! I meant a PAYING job! One where you have a steady income to support your family! Or did you forget all about your wife and son? Emily cannot support your entire family, that’s just not right. Rob you wanna know what I’m looking at right now? Yup thats right, the picture when we visited the White House together when you were only five. What happened to that little boy Rob? Oh you grew up? Well thats not what I’m seeing lately. I miss the old Rob. I gotta go. I’ll talk to ya later bud… (hangs up phone and puts picture back on mantel. Rest his head in the palms of his hands)      



Joannah Luns from Zoe Schwingel-Sauer on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project: Tiarra Bell & Brandon Yam

Posted by Tiarra Bell in World History - Block - B on
​In the first unit of the 10th grade World History class, students learned about  global equality and the different ways humans interact with their environment. Some of our topics were education equality, different views of development within countries and about this major project the Keystone XL Pipeline. For the Keystone pipeline we examined both sides of the pipeline, the people who support it and the ones who are against it. To really gain full perspective of whats going on here, we were given a project where we had to construct monologues based off of people we created and how the Keystone pipeline will effect them. 

Keystone XL Pipeline Key facts (Need to Know on PBS): 

* The pipeline would carry oil from Canada’s “tar sands” down to U.S. refineries by the Gulf of Mexico.

*The pipeline starts for Alberta, Canada traveling 1,700 miles  through the United States to refineries in Texas, passing through Nebraska, Montana, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas.

* The pipeline will create 20,000 construction and manufacturing jobs and make about $585 million in new taxes. 

*The tar sands oil being drilled carries diluted bitumen, a highly corrosive, acidic, and a blend of thick raw bitumen and natural gas liquid condensate. 

* Drilling oil from tar sands threatens the environment, and depleting Alberta’s boreal forests and wetlands in the area. 

Click here to view my monologue and video. 

Keystone XL Pipeline Monologue/Day

Posted by Nashay Day in World History - Block - B on
​ Link to My Video here incase not emdeded. 

During this unit in World History we learned about American consumerism as well as the Keystone XL Pipeline, a pipeline that will stretch through U.S States to Canada. We went over the pros and cons of this and wrote monologues about someone/something who was effected/affected by the Pipeline in someone kind of way. Here are my monologues. 


Here are some quotes and facts that stuck out to me. 

"“It’s a given that the crime activity increases and hospitals are getting more use, and housing is so expensive. Sure, there are jobs, but you can’t find anywhere to live."” — Bill Whitehead 

Giant oil corporations invested in Canada's tar sands. 


Perspective #1


Who: Junior Executive for TransCanada who does not agree with pipeline extension.

What: To keep pipeline as same and to not extend it

Where: From the boardroom of TransCanada

Why: He believes it will hurt the environment and he is a bit of an environmentalist.


Perspective #2


Who: Chairman of TransCanada who is pro pipeline extension

What: To keep line extension in place.

Where: From his office

Why:  He believes it will be an efficient way of gaining oil independence and a great money maker. The chairman is broke, and is trying to continue to give his family the lifestyle that they have always had.


Perspective #3


Who: Protester who is contemplating their stance on the Keystone XL pipeline

What: Is unsure

Where: From rally outside of potential construction site.

Why: He does not know if hurting the environment will benefit it in the long run. He does not want to upset the other protesters so he tries to keep his opinion silent.







Good Guy, Gone Bad


( Opens as Terry sits in board meeting with other colleagues thinking in his head about the pipeline)

Who am I? What am I doing here? I was head of the Environmental Club at Princeton. What would the club think of me if they knew I was going to be apart of making a decision that could possibly contribute to the earth’s demise? I don’t get how someone who was about to become an environmentalist, and save the earth, is helping destroy it. I was suppose to help save it. Not kill it. What am I going to do… I (votes in Board meeting for pipeline) what did I just do? Maybe if I… no, I can’t do that I could get fired, and face it, i’m only doing this for the money, until I can do what I really want. Repair messes like this. I have to stand up and face my demons. But what am I going to do? Fine… I’m going to do it. (Stands up and begins to speak to board) I feel that we should stand up for what we know is right. We cannot just stand here and do nothing while we get the construction workers to kill our precious land and fertile soil. When I was at Princeton I learned a lot, but something that always stuck out to me was standing up for what I believed in. And this is what I believe in… Not building the pipeline. We can’t continue to do this! Well don’t just stand there do something! I know all of you can’t be that corrupt and money hungry! Life as we know it on this planet will be over if we do not stand up, and do something. (Board member makes rude remark) Well fine, FUCK YOU ALL! AND I QUIT! HOW ABOUT THAT?!?! (Leaves board room to go with protesters outside of building)









A Change of Heart


(Kim stands at head of table in board room is in the middle of presenting Pipeline Proposal before vote)


The pipeline will not only benefit our the company revenue, but it will also benefit the country. The U.S is very dependent on oil from foreign countries. This would boost the U.S’s level of independence extremely so, and would also give the U.S more resources to create more allies around the world. This would boost the productivity of TransCanada by approximately 14% in comparison to last year… (Terry, a Junior Executive stands up to executives and quits) (Kim drops pen) You know what! Damn it! He has a point! Why am I doing this, I don’t need this, my man got a job, and ain’t nobody got time for this shit. Like i’m so tired of wearing this suit and pretending like we are not savage! Have you ever thought of the negative effects of this pipeline!!! Like killing the earth! And you can just stand there and decide this, all for a 6 figure check?!?! Are you crazy?! How will you spend money when there won’t be any trees to make any paper. Like that is completely obtuse. And the thing about it is, I don’t even understand how someone could be so careless about the world that we live in. (Board members look in awe). WELL DON’T JUST STAND THERE! DO SOMETHING!!!! (Board members continue to give blank stairs) You know what! I quit! And good luck building the pipeline without my leadership. I’m going with Terry, and the rest of the ‘savages’ that want to save our country! (Kim takes off blazer, Work ID, and glasses and throws them on the ground and goes protest with Terry)








A Man Confused


(Jordan stands with picket sign raised screaming to get rid of pipeline with other protesters)


DON’T PLANT THE PIPELINE IN THE EARTH YOU BASTARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHOSE WORLD IS THIS?!?! *Crowd screams* Our world! (Jordan begins thinking in his head about the pipeline) I mean what if the pipeline actually did benefit us in a way… We’re out here not even trying to negotiate and just demanding things that have nothing to do with us and are really out of our control. (Comes back to reality and begins to talk on megaphone). We cannot continue to not look at the other side, we should not be blaming those people in the board room and instead we should be blaming ourselves as citizens for letting things get to this point. Instead of standing out here like savages. (Protesters simmer down until they get to a level of complete silence.) Umm… what do you guys think? (Terry comes down to be with protesters and is harassed a yelled at) *Protestor speaks* “What the hell do you want?”  (Terry gives reasoning behind him joining the angry protestors, then Jordan begins to speak to himself) In the midst of all the chaos, he came down to join us, this must be a sign, we must be fighting for a good cause! (Kim takes megaphone, and comes down to join Terry and other protesters) If two executives have join us, this is a change I want to be apart of. (Jordan begins to chant) WHOSE WORLD IS THIS?! *Crowd screams* Our world!!! (Monologue closes)






Keystone XL Pipeline Monologue : Brandon Yam & Tiarra Bell

Posted by Brandon Yam in World History - Block - B on
I feel that I have learned a lot in this unit. In this unit, the sophomore history class (taught by Mr. Block) , learned about the Keystone XL Pipeline. The Keystone XL Pipeline is a pipeline that will go from Canada through the U.S. to Texas. This is for the transportation of tar sands oil. We were tasked to make monologues from different perspectives of those who live along the pipeline route. I learned about the pro's and cons of a project like this. I also learned what it's like to live along the pipeline route and the hardships it brings. 

Five Key Facts: 
- Keystone XL Pipeline will cause environmental harm and ecological problems. 
- Money gained from this project will further education in local schools. 
- 30% of U.S. emissions are from the Keystone XL Pipelines. 
- The project will create thousands of jobs 
- Contribute over $20 billion to the U.S. economy.


Monologue #1 (Brandon)

(Icarus, a spoiled rich child. wakes up in his room)

Icarus - *yawns*

“Herald! Bring me a chocolate sundae, yeah?”

“NO CHERRIES”

(get’s up and makes his way through his house)

“Herald you dumb buffoon I said no cherries! You can’t get anything right can you?”

“ Where is my mother and father? “

“ Out? What do you mean they’re out? “

“ Yes, I would like to call them”

(calls his father)

“ Dad, where are you and mom? “

“ Jail!?”

“What in the heavens are you doing in jail?”

“ You did all of this for a stupid pipeline?!”

“ What about the new xbox you said you were gonna get me? Huh? What about the PS4? Huh? How are you supposed to get me these things when you quit your job and donated most of our money!”

“ I don’t want to play with those stupid toys anymore. I’ve had them for a long time. They’re old and stupid.”

“ 2 weeks is a very long time! “

“ You know, I don’t care just come back quickly before Herald has a stroke or something.”

(hangs up phone)

*sighs*

“Stupid parents… “

“Herald! Do you know anything about this XL Pipeline?”

“ I want you to look it up and report back to me with everything you found out in the next hour you hear?”

“ Go on, run along now.”

(Icarus goes around the house occupying himself)

“ I’m here! OVER HERE, HERALD!”

“ You’re too old for this job, Herald, god gave you eyes for a reason. Please use them.”

“ Did you find anything? “

“ Pro’s and cons?”

"The environment will die out quickly?"

"Sure as hell not as quickly as you."

"Health problems, environmental problems, and even ecological problems?"

"What's the worst than can happen? Plants and fish are gonna die?

"Oh. They will die. Whoops. "

"Enough Herald. I don't want to hear no more.  I think my IQ dropped like 10 points just from listening to you. "

“ What should I do Herald? “

“ Should I just stand here and wait for my parents to come back?”

“ I should...help them?”

“ I mean I could do that, it’s not a big deal.”

“ Whatever, I suppose helping people sometimes isn’t a bad thing. I’ve got to build up my rep anyways.”

“ Get the car ready, Herald.”

(Icarus gets in the car and heads over to where the protest is taking place)

“Stupid pipeline ruining my day. I’ll make sure this doesn’t get passed if it’s the last thing I do.”

END



Monologue #2 (Brandon)

Terra- (walking down the street slowly browsing stores from the outside) *sighs*

“Looks like nobody is hiring around here…”

“Maybe that’ll change tomorrow.”

(Stops in front of a Radio Shack)

“Hmmmm, let’s try here.”

(walks into the shop)

“Hey! Oh no I’m not buying anything I was just wondering if you have a job opening by any chance.”

“Oh, alright. I’ll wait here then.”

(He hear’s a nearby tv talking about the Pipeline opening up 80,000 jobs in the U.S.)

“A pipeline, huh?”

“80,000 new jobs?!”

(Terra paces back and forth in the shop thinking about the pipeline. As he’s doing this the store attendant returns)

“Huh? Oh yeah, that’s me. So, you don’t have an opening?”

“Ok, well thanks for asking. But I think I’ll be able to get a job soon.”

(Terra calls a friend of his that works for TransCanada)

“Hey, bud!”

“No, I’m not calling for money this time.”

“You work for TransCanada, right?”

“I was just wondering you know, I heard about the pipeline and how it will open 80,000 new jobs.”

“Do you think you could promise me a spot for one of those jobs?”

“Of course I support it! I mean yeah! XL Pipeline all the way, you know? *laughs*”

“ Really? You’re serious right?”

“Thanks bud! You’re the best!”

(call ends)

“Whooooo! I can’t believe this is happening!”

“ I guess my luck has finally changed for once.”

(Terra calls his brother Samuel about the good news)

“Samuel!”

“ I got a job!”

“Yep, I’m serious.”

“My bud promised me a spot in building a pipeline. I think it was called SL Pipeline or something.)

“Yeah! I meant XL Pipeline. How did you know that?”

“What do you mean you’re protesting?”

“What’s so bad about this pipeline?”

“You know what, I called because I thought you’d be happy for me because I just got a job, but I guess I was wrong.”

“I don’t care about the consequences! For once, Samuel, for once in my life I have something to look forward to! I don’t have to worry about what my next meal will be or when my house will be taken away.”

“This isn’t what I need to hear right now. Goodbye, Samuel.”

(hangs up)

“What a knucklehead.”

(Terra’s at home in a chair thinking about the Pipeline)

“Why was he so mad at me?”

“What’s the big deal about the Pipeline?”

“I guess finding out what I’m working for isn’t a bad idea.”

(researches XL Pipeline on computer)

“Can kill more jobs that it creates huh?....Go figure”

“ Tar sand oil dangerous….”

“Health problems…”

“Is this what I am supporting?”

(calls Samuel)

“Sorry about earlier Samuel I was just on the edge.”

“Can you tell me more about this Pipeline?”

END


Monologue #1 (Tiarra)


*Emma Tremblay is a single mother living in Athabasca Alberta, Canada; she soon faces trouble when the company TransCanada is trying to run the KeyStone XL pipeline through her backyard.  


(Emma is sitting at her desk at work when she sees her phone ring. It’s reads *Chelsea - her daughter* )

I was at work when she called me. I remember it clearly.

“Mama these men are at our house”

I’m thinking, what men?

But to only realize it’s those men.

The fear in her voice brought tears to my eyes.


(On her drive home she begins to ponder)

“Sure, Yes, Go head”

These words used to advantage and to control many people. One being me.

Too many times have I said them. Too many times have I been controlled by them.

“Yes you can do that” “Sure why not” Always trying to please others even if i’m totally against it.


Our so called friendly neighbors want to take our resources want to make a little profit but at the same time destroy our land. The government took control of the commoners for way too long. Not only are they going to destroy their land but they are going to pose a threat to me for me land.


(Emma is at home now and she discovers those men, the pipeline men in her backyard)

Red, grey, red, grey, phony smiles, constantly nodding heads scattered all about my property. Those men dressed all in their suits, sticking the flagged stakes where this pipeline is supposed to be... in my backyard while i’m hiding on the sidelines watching it all pass before my eyes. They push and trampled over me like they just hit a gold mine. I ask them…

“Why must they do this to me?”

Only to get papers thrown in my face saying they now have procession over my property.


Now the time has come…

Come ahead and mess with me, i’m not ashamed of what I am now. You provoked me, thinking I would sit back and watch this. This land has been preserved for us by our ancestors for hundreds of years but now we are the sacrifice for the devil’s works. It’s time to stand up and fight for what’s ours so it can be here for generations to come.


Monologue #2 (Tiarra)


*Jackie Loo is a News Reporter for Maine's News channel for about 6 years, she travels all around the world reporting breaking news. You would think she enjoys her job but soon you will find out she hates it. One story in particular is the Keystone XL pipeline, she travels to the construct sites reporting for why they should build the pipeline while she completely opposes the idea of this pipeline and anything else the media puts out there.


(Jackie Loo is at the TransCanada Corporate building interviewing the head of the Keystone XL project when all these thoughts of anger pop into her head.)

I can't keep going on like this…

It’s secretly tearing me apart.

This job is wants me to be something i’m not.

Everyday, I travel all over the world then I get in front of that camera  and pretend to support something I completely oppose.

“Jackie Loo here reporting for the construction of the Keystone pipeline”

Don’t people know what will happen of this plan is followed through?

Not only lives will be at staked but our wonder home. Planet Earth.

Here I go again.

“60 seconds to air”

I really don’t want to feed this crap to Americans.

“20 seconds”

“10”

“9”

“8”

(The camera man starts to count down on his fingers)

“3,2,1”

“Now to you Jackie”

“Thanks Dave, I’m here at the TransCanada cooperate building speaking to the head of the Keystone XL Pipeline Project, Bob Toomey.”

“How will this pipeline benefit the American people?”

“It will create 20,000 jobs and bring in $585,0….”

(Bob continues talking while Jackie is telling him off in her head)

Why can’t this man be completely honest and tell America what could really happen?

How about this dirty Tar Sands oil? Or oil spills or taking people’s land?


I’m sick of this rich people thinking they can control everything and do anything thinking the consequences would just fade away.

These people are the reasons that i’m being pushed closer to the edge.

Each day they put me on air to sink their bios opinions on how life “should be” into to the minds of innocent viewers. Americans watch television seeking for some light in their lives but only to be feed this crap.

These people don’t care about us, they are their own priorities; they want to rip us off to become more powerful.

But I’ve got news for you, your cheap propaganda doesn’t work for me.  I will not conform to your image. You are not going to turn me into something i’m not. You thought that I could be another mouthpiece for the creed but I'm not ashamed to tell you that I'm not.

(Jackie interrupts Bob)

“Can you stop talking for a moment Bob. There’s something I would like to tell America”


Monologue #3 (Tiarra & Brandon)

Sid - “Hey! I’m home!”

“What’s up little ones? Did ya miss Daddy?”

“Yeah kind of”

“How was school buttercup?”

“It’s could be better but what can I do. So how was your day?”

“Aah, I had a good day at work, but today was my last day.”

“What!! Why?”

“Because I’m quitting my job.”

“No, you can’t!”

“There are some things you may not understand, but it’s for a good cause.”

“But you’ll understand later in life. There are people in this world that do things to hurt others. Some people right now are trying to build something that will hurt the earth.”

“But you can’t quit, times are hard and we have no money.”

“Don’t worry about the money. We’ll get by somehow.”

“You’re worrying too much about this. Don’t you trust your own pap?”

“But…”

“Besides, nature is too beautiful. I won’t let it be destroyed.”


Daddy I wish you would just listen to me for once, we are all you have and I want the best for you and Bud.

Ever since Mom died things have really gotten rough on us.

We had to learn how to take of each other while still living through the pain.

The pain inside us had to be keep in a box behind our hearts to show that we are strong for Bud.


“Why did mama die”

“Well because she was very sick”

“Didn’t they give her medicine”

“Yes but it wasn’t strong enough but everything is fine because be we will soon see her when we go to heaven”

Every night.

Every night it was a routine.

Bud would ask those same questions, some how I knew he was crumbling inside just like us but I just had a feeling he was trying to stay strong for us too.


During those 7 years of Mama’s cancer, it began our journey to truly find who we are as individuals and a family. I’ve learned that we have to take care of each other when she is no longer here. You are trying your best by working this construction job so we can have a little money on your pockets. But now you want to quit.


Dad, you know how hard it was to get back on our feet and now you just want to throw it all away because you don’t like what the “company is doing to the earth”. You are right, the earth is our home but drilling a little oil from the ground won’t hurt. We can’t focus on the earth right now, our top priorities are making sure we have a steady income to at least keep the lights on.

So just consider not quitting your job.  

END



large from Brandon Huntsfield on Vimeo.

Keystone XL pipeline from Tiarra Bell on Vimeo.

Keystone XL pipeline

Posted by Pilar Carroll in World History - Block - B on
The unit we were are learning about in class is about the keystone XL pipeline. We researched facts about the pipe line, and we saw video's about the two different sides to this pipeline. Pro and con. This unit really helped me understand the pro's and cons on two different opinions, and to not judge peoples opinions before really listening, and thinking about their perspective.


1.The Keystone Pipeline starts in Canada and goes all the way down to the golf of Mexico,

2) 2,157 miles. 

3)Some people think that the pipeline is good, next to the other alternative, using trucks the transport the oil. They think that transporting the oil in trucks i way more dangerous, because of accidents. 

4)Other people think that the Pipeline is bad, because there will be more leaks. 



Monologues: 

1) 

(at the dinner table)

My day was good...Mom, tell him what I did.

(pause)Yeah, I wrote it. Okay (stands up)

Dear dad, I think that the Keystone pipelines are very bad for the environ….( Pronounce wrong) (pause) Environment. To get the oil people have to drill holes into the floor and that is bad for our earth and makes us have a holie earth. Then,

(starts speaking frantic) the pipes will have could leak, like the ceiling, when it rains. And it could get into the water that the animals drink. And If the animals drink that they will get sick. And If the animals get sick, then you couldn’t have your meat

(holds up chicken) and I couldn’t have my ruby (points to dog with chicken). But not just Us, no one will have their meat of their ruby’s. But also, it could mess up plants, because, well, Mommy told me, that when it gets hot, the water goes up in the air, and it goes into the clouds, then the clouds move and it rains. But what if the dirty water from the pipes go up into the air, and turn into clouds and it rains over Mr.Humphrey's Farm? Then won’t have any plants either, and Mommy can’t eat her salad. And soon enough all anyone could say at dinner is (yells)”Pass the salt!” because that is all we will have. So please daddy, vote against the pipeline. And save your dinner! *whisper* And ruby.

 

2) 

(In the front of the cop car)

What was happening back there? But it is important; Well I mean it looked important... Well then why did you taze him? (looks to the back seat) I heard them talking on about some pipeline, and Tar sand oil? (small pause)yeah tar sand Oil.

(Pause)well what’s wrong with the oil? (change of tone) Because I wanna know, the people sounded mad! Just tell me what happened.

(long pause) So…..this pipeline …...will destroy the Ozone? (talks faster) But a pipe is better than trucks that can get into accidents.

(pauses) Well yeah…. there could be leaks, BUT they could get people to fix it, we could have people for that. More jobs right?  It sounds to me that the pipeline isn’t the issue. It’s the tar sand oil, that’s what you people should be yelling about ( looks back seat) Whether we use truck or pipes.  We still have to drill in the ground, so the pipeline shouldn’t be what you protest about, it should be the sand

(pauses & looks looks forward) Yeah I guess it will destroy the farms and the grounds...why did you protest? you could have sent a letter, it’s not that serious. I mean, going to jail for that. Is it really that worth it? Personally I wouldn’t want to go to jail, and I don’t think you would want to either. I mean. Would I?



3)

Okay, so we need to have something that won't get easy leaks. Since the press wants to worry about leaks. I wonder…..If we put rubber in the pipe if it will leak, or if It will fall off and mess up the oil.

(picks up phone* *dial tone)Kristen I need a test ran on  how the oil reacts with rubber inside the pipe. Thanks, call when your done, Bye bye. (hangs up phone)

(sigh) hopefully thats taken care of. Now, daren. (dial tone)hey Darren, I need you to find out all the farmland on our rout for the pipeline. Oh, you already have the map? well can you fax it to me? yeah thanks. Okay. bye. (hangs up phone.)

(sips coffee and taps pen* * paper comes out* *Look at paper) Okay, so it looks like we have to get some curves over near the Robinson's ranch.

(dial tone) Hello? Yes Darren, I need you to call the Robinson ranch to see what parts of their farm they don’t really use, and ask if it’s okay to put the pipeline their. We have to try to make this pipeline as eco friendly as possible. (hangs up the phone)

Well, Good things about the pipeline (pause and taps pen ) A Pipe would be more eco friendly than driving trust with oil, and It would be much safer than having flammable oil near other peoples cars. Plus the exhaust from the trucks.  

(phone rings)This is Braden. (pause) Oh you ran the test? ( pause) Great! I’ll come down now! thats wonderful. Okay, Bye bye. (hangs up phone) Yes!

 

History from Pilar Carroll on Vimeo.

Pipeline Monologue Project (Kadija K.)

Posted by Kadija Koita in World History - Block - B on
STEP ONE: Basically our project was about the research on the Keystone XL pipeline and how many people had controversy about it. Also it was a series of types of information either stating the opposing side of the pipeline or the people that proposed it. I feel that I learned a lot, because before we started, I did not know anything regarding to the pipeline, and now I am greatly informed and involved.
 
STEP TWO: 1.The pipeline will cost about $7 billion, and run about 1700 miles long. (keystone-xl.com)
2. The oil refineries are in Texas.(keystone-xl.com)
3An estimated 20,000 jobs will be created.(keystone-xl.com)
4.Increase use of Canadian oil will limit our dependence on foreign oil. (keystone-xl.com)
5.Could potentially hurt 1.5 million people and pollute drinking water. (350.org)

STEP THREE: monologue 1

“I`m Losing My Dad”

By Kadija Koita



“turtle sitting down in his cage, thinking in his head.”


Why can't anyone understand that it is so fun being home alone. No kids, no dad, and no mom because that would mean my owner would have to not be single, and he is. He's A lonely man, hope he finds someone. But besides that he works on something called the pipeline for keystone XXL or XL, whatever it is, i dont know because I`m just a turtle. Did I mention a pretty good looking one too. Anyway he says he needs the money because he wants to move, so i guess its for the better. He leaves the TV on during the day and I see the protests and stuff they do for it. Guess it`s a big deal, if you ask me. Tyrell, that`s my owner or dad, yeah dad. He works as a worker from 6 am until 8 pm and comes home so exhausted ,I  think he forgets if he has a little turtle that needs loving. But child let me tell you about them days where its nobody home, its nice and quiet, I can lounge around with no clothes on and do whatever I want, that`s all the love I need. Alright, enough about me, more about this big pipe that they want to build. Tyrell said they're going to have about 20,000 jobs created, and his sister said o give her deadbeat husband one of those jobs. I think that`s good thing I think. These humans is crazy. Some people want the pipeline and then you got the people over here saying it could kill our world and release carbon into the world. I don't know what to think. Tyrell is saying the only reason he`s doing this is because of the money, but I feel like he`s getting blindsided. I want my old Tyrell back, the one that used to actually let me come out of my cage once and  while, the one that actually told me he loved me, God only knows when the last time i heard that. You know I actually didn't care about this big pipe thing, but now i do because they are taking away my only friend in the whole world, the man I trusted. Someone that gave me a chance when i was being sold for $10 and he picked me up and took me home. They are saying the pipeline will cause people to lose clean drinking water, oh no. You crazy if you think i'm going to be sitting here with bugs and bacteria floating in my tank, because ya'll want to send some tazan or tar sands, whatever you call it, down the middle of our country. I live in Alberta, Canada, and let me tell you something they are not too happy about it. I may not know a lot, but I do know I want my dad back, I miss him, so if that meant not supporting this pipeline thing, then fine, I don't support it.



monologue 2: Title, "You wouldn`t understand"

Look you guys, I really have to do this job, it`s for the sake of my life and my kids lives. I have to pay his child support or i'm going to jail, and then my kids are not going to be able to see me. Seriously, I'd rather work for something that is disagreed upon, then to be not with my kids. It`s not like i'm prostituting or something.Thats what they are treating me like. I really don`t think its all that bad. They said it would create like 20,00 new jobs, and they should be thanking me, because i could actually find them a job if they needed one, its good pay. They're also saying something about 7,000 jobs are being supported for the people that actually make the steel in the factories. I really don't understand the big deal, I mean you gotta agree with me on this. I could see if i was killing baby pandas for their fur, but i'm not. I don't even wear fur. But besides the point, they have to at least support me, because i'm trying to support my kids right? Regardless i'm doing it ]m weather they like it or not. They definitely won't be complaining when those paychecks come in and I buy them whatever they need. I mean i understand of the world and all that nature stuff, i get it. I did my part though, i saw a chip bag on the floor and you know what i did, yup you guessed it .picked it right up and put it in the trash. I don't get why my sister is calling me killer, she says that they are going to hurt communities near the pipe and potentially pollute their drinking water, and I said look man i understand your hurt, but i gotta do what i gotta do. I love my family, but they gotta love me too regardless. So now i guess they're not talking to me, so was is really worth it. See now i gotta make a decision, what to do? Thats the question right.



Monologue 3: Title, " We hate this!"


(in front of the white house, people yelling with signs opposing the pipeline)


“DON'T KILL OUR FUTURE, BECAUSE OF A PIPE!”  protesters chanting.

 I can't stand them, they never listen to anything we say. I come here everyday in my work clothes after a long day, just to stand up for what i believe in, is it wrong to not want die,because you might have polluted water, is it not wrong to go against it because it could potentially hinder 2,000 lakes, rivers, and streams, and have the leakage that we so didn't want to happen. Its horrible, the way people could be so blinded to what's in front of them. its destroying all the forest and God knows we need to save every bit of nature we have left.  Today when i was out there i was chanting with all my friends and it made me happy that we could make change in a way that actually was not violent, but you know what, its only so long i can take this. you're going to listen to me regardless of what those bimbo cops have to say. A change is going to come, forced or not.

(1 month later)


“GET THAT PIPE, DESTROY THE HYPE” Protesters chanting.

Today was crazy. I stood my ground and didn't move. We were yelling, not speaking, we were telling not asking. Because I learned a valuable thing, you gotta take what you want, because in this world, nothing is offered. I stomped my feet, pumped my fist and held my ground fiercely. The police all blurred and i wasn't even paying attention to them, they just looked like a blue blanket on the street. I really couldn't tell you guys how crazy it was. People were yelling louder and then it was like 300 people on the street. it was a wednesday, it was 75 degrees, and sunny. It


STEP FOUR:

Movie on 10-1-13 at 7.20 PM from Kadija Koita on Vimeo.

“Hallada muerta con signos de violencia una niña de 12 años” Artículo #3

Posted by Temperance Moore in Spanish 3 - Manuel - Y on

Este artículo sobre una niña de doce años quien era asesinó con signos de violencia. Ella era encontrado en un buscó camino. Allí son no detalles porque el caso es un secreto. El artículo dije, “El alcalde de Teo, Martiño Noriega, reconoció que las informaciones en torno al luctuoso suceso son confusas y que el caso se encuentra bajo secreto judicial y que este "hay que respetarlo".” Allí no era testigos. El artículo dije, “Manuel Crespo, un vecino del lugar de Feros, que reside en la única vivienda unifamiliar situada a escasos cien metros de donde fue hallado el cadáver, aseguró que pasó por el lugar de regreso a su casa después de un paseo en torno a las 00.30 horas de la medianoche, aunque nada le llamó la atención ni a él ni a su mujer. "Mi mujer y yo veníamos de pasear y pasamos por ahí a las doce y media de la noche, y no vimos nada. Tuvo que ser entre las doce y media y la una y cuarto de la madrugada", explicó.” Elegí este artículo porque yo pensé el artículo era un buen tema. El artículo está muy triste. A conexión a el mundo es muchos niños morir cada día. El mundo esta cruel y violento. Deseo el mundo era un seguro para todo niños.  



Word Count: 221

"Hallada Muerta Con Signos De Violencia Una Niña De 12 Años." El Periódico De Aragón. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Sept. 2013. <http://www.elperiodicodearagon.com/noticias/sociedad/hallada-muerta-con-signos-de-violencia-una-nina-de-12-anos_885254.html>.




Spanish Journal #5

Posted by August Polite in Spanish 3 - Manuel - Y on

Breaking Bad finale

August Polite


vocab:

intrigante - intriguing

temporada - season (tv)

química - chemistry

obra maestra - masterpiece

era, época - era

retratar - portray

rendimiento - performance   


El domingo pasado mi programa favorita terminó,  y lo estuvo el final de una era. La programa es "Breaking Bad"; una historia sobre la vida de Walter White y sus decisiones malas. Él estaba un maestro que tenía cáncer, comenzó a hacer drogas con su estudiante Jesse. Fue un maestro de ciencias y sabe mucho sobre química. Jesse sabía el mercado y Walter Sabía las químicas, su idea fue bueno pero ellos tenían muchos problemas. Walter White estaba retratar de el actor Bryan Cranston, y Jesse fue Aaron Paul. Pienso lo estaba el debut de Aaron Paul y estaba muy bueno para él porque ganó muchos premios por su rendimiento. Fue cinco temporadas y todos fue muy bueno, cada temporada tenía algo que fue muy interesante. Los escritores están inteligente y ellos saben como a hacer un historia intrigante. El creador de el serie (se llama Vince Gilligan) escribía el episodio final y lo escribió bien. Breaking Bad es una programa que será amado por muchos años en el futuro. El año pasado mi tio me introdujo a breaking bad, y cuando estaba en california con él y su familia nosotros lo mirábamos cada dia. Estoy triste que no puedo ver más de este programa, pero estoy emocionado a ver que Vince Gilligan y su escritores van a hacer después de su obra maestra, Breaking Bad,  Ese es el final de una época.

Sample Pipeline Monologue Blog Post

Posted by Joshua Block on
Please create a SLATE post in our World History course.

Title it: Pipeline Monologue Project

Part I: Write a paragraph that summarizes our unit of study and what you feel you have learned in this unit. Make this paragraph polished and clear for readers that know nothing about the pipeline or our unit of study.

Part II: List five key facts or short quotes that you feel everyone should know about the pipeline and/or humans relationship to the environment. For each point put the title of the source in parenthesis after the bullet point.

Part III: The monologues! Make sure they are polished and revised (double check the blue page in the room). Make sure each monologue has a title and that stage directions are in parenthesis.

Part IV: The video(s). Make sure the video has a title page with the title of the monologue and your name. Post the video to Vimeo. After Vimeo has processed it get the embed code and paste it into the multimedia section of your blog post. If you do this correctly your video will show up within the blog post itself. (It should not be a link.)