CapeFearBioBlog

Vote for Ben and Stacia!!!

2009-08-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

The time has come to lay the PUP to rest.......
http://www.tonightshowwithconanobrien.com/video/clips/one-song-and-dance/1148747/

Mission Accomplished!

2009-06-30T05:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been a crazy 2009! Even in the midst of a deep recession we have been able to re-open our B100 pump and sales have increased dramatically!
A big thanks to Eco-collections Systems....check out this great video of our reopening at 3121 N. Kerr Ave. in Wilmington.
http://vimeo.com/4864469
For a map of our new location click here

This event marks a major milestone for CFB as we are now providing truly renewable biodiesel, made from locally collected waste oil to our membership. As with many projects, this success is due to the development of partnerships and would not have been possible without Triangle Biofuels and Eco-collections Systems. Together, we have worked towards the common goal of providing a high-quality, renewable fuel to citizens of southeastern North Carolina. CFB is proud to be the only provider of B100 east of I-95 in North Carolina and will continue to support the alternative fuel movement.

A big thanks also goes out to our membership, which has continually supported renewable energy in the Wilmington.

www.savebiodiesel.org

2009-04-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

Please visit www.savebiodiesel.org to learn more about the issues surrounding new diesel emissions laws and high blend biodiesel. This petition is designed to force manufacturers to plan for biodiesel use throughout the market place.

Please take a moment to educate yourself about this issue!

Thanks.

Moving out!

2009-01-20T19:45:00.000-08:00

After yet another false start for our fuel making pursuits.....we will be leaving Winnabow by the end of January. Permits were our downfall on this one.....note to self, check (and confirm) even the most basic of zoning regulations.

We are planning to move into New Hanover County, hopefully providing a more convenient location for our membership to utilize. While we can't compete with the plummeting prices of petro-diesel, we appreciate everyone who continues to support the our goal of providing locally produced, environmentally responsible fuel.

We also encourage anyone interested to get involved and serve as a board member!

Stay tuned to the blog for information on our new home............

COLD FLOW ADVISORY

2008-10-27T06:39:00.000-07:00

Temps are heading down into the mid-30s this week. Everyone please be aware that the biodiesel in the 17th street tank is chicken fat based and has a high cloud point (~45 degrees F). Mixing with petroleum diesel to a 50/50 blend will be sufficient to counteract most cold flow issues this winter.

CFB is currently negotiating with providers to purchase fuel made with waste oil or soybean feedstock, both of which have superior cold flow properties. We will keep you posted of any and all changes as we head into winter.

Thanks for supporting local fuel!

Alternative Fuel Car Show - November 15th

2008-10-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Make plans to join CFB on the 15th to showcase your alternative fuel vehicle....should be a great time! Call Katie for additional information.

Bookreading with Lyle Estill, September 17th

2008-09-02T19:23:00.000-07:00

CFB is having a fundrainser, featuring Lyle Estill!

Lyle is vice-president of Piedmont Biofuels and will be reading from his new book, Small is Possible. This book chronicles the journey towards sustainability that the citizens of Pittsboro, NC have travelled over the past several years. The book is peppered with witty insight, blog entries, and news clips that will inspire anyone committed towards taking responsibility for their action.

When: Wednesday September 17, 2008 6-9PM

Where: WHQR Gallery, 254 North Front Street (Downtown Wilmington)

Cost: $10, includes NC made beer, wine and hors d'oeuvres

Tickets available at the door!

1978 240D for sale in Wilmington

2008-07-27T09:24:00.000-07:00

good condition, $2,000

call Pat at 910-762-0485

General Meeting Minutes July 10, 2008

2008-07-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Mark Jabaley for compiling these.....just a quick note, the 80 gallon reactor was moved on the 12th and we plan to begin making fuel this Saturday (July 19th, 10AM)!!!

7/10/08 Cape Fear BioFuels General Meeting Minutes –

Agenda
80 Gal Reactor to pinch-hit in Winnabow!
Girl Mark’s progress on the 150 gal reactor.
BIOEXEC’s progress and relationship with COOP
Gator Hole relations. B100 in Brunswick Co coming soon!
Brunswick Community College has Algae!--Aquaculture Technology Diploma offered!

Steve French recently purchased an 80 gal reactor and is moving it to the CFB Coop in Winnabow to make fuel full time! 4 to 6 volunteers needed this Saturday morning, July 12 at 10AM to move the reactor. Call the BioPhone for more information. (910) 471-5778 The relationship between Cape Fear Biofuels, BioExec (Steve’s company), and Coastal Grease Services, provides a process for waste vegetable to be collected from local restaurants, driven to Winnabow, and turned into biodiesel for Coop members and coop pumps. The Coop will be open to members on weekends to make their own fuel and to contribute back to the Coop! Things are looking up!

The 150 gal reactor is still on course to debut in late fall. Girl Mark’s progress on the construction of the reactor is set to continue in late July as other farm status logistics are ironed out.

Brent Manning establishes good relations with Gator Hole executives and is on track to have the first biodiesel pump in Brunswick County. The Gator Hole goes green as it plans to offer ethanol, biodiesel, kayak tours, and sandwiches to it’s commuters on hwy 133!

Brunswick Community College offers Aquaculture Technology Program! Go back to school for what you really want to do; Grow Algae! Don’t worry about getting another diploma, just sign up for the Biodiesel from Algae class this fall! Visit http://www.brunswickcc.edu/ for more information

Book Review - Deep Economy by Bill McKibben

2008-07-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

In Deep Economy, McKibben examines the ramifications of decades of economic policy on the age old question…….does money buy happiness? His surprising (to some) response is based on hundreds of published reports that show a world that may be making more money but is suffering from other deficiencies which result in unfulfilled, unhappy lives.

The book begins by walking the reader through different economies at different points in their development. Intertwined within this journey is a reoccurring theme, growth, and negative impact that it creates for our societies. He accurately summarizes the impact of double digit growth rates in the United States and China which ultimately sacrifices many of the basic rights of our citizens, clean air, water, and civic participation.

In the process of this development, McKibben points out that we have become “hyper-individualized”, a fact which further drives consumption patterns and erodes community interaction. By operating as a hyper-individual we are able to isolate ourselves from the problems at hand, allowing us to remain aloof and helpless. These attitudes are partially responsible for the current lack of action and initiative necessary to overcome our environmental problems.

So what is the solution to our current personal and environmental malaise? McKibben suggests a shifting of wealth from the personal to the community level. In doing so he presents an array of examples of local solutions ranging from improving forestry management practices to the development of community supported agriculture (CSA) groups. While dramatically varied in goals and organizational structure, the overall mission is the same, as a society we need to take more responsibility for our actions.

One of my favorite chronicles in the book, includes an interview with Daniel Taylor, the direct of an anti-poverty group called Future Generations. During their discussions, Taylor makes an interesting observation, stating that

“Change happens because of how we invest our human energy……..Everyone’s got a margin of discretionary energy, ten to twenty percent that isn’t used in making their way in the world. That’s the energy that is available for social change.”

This statement begs the question…..what are we doing with that energy? Better yet, how can we harness this energy to create the durable future that McKibben envisions?

Get involved at www.350.org

CFB Movie Night - June 18th Jengo's Playhouse

2008-06-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

Join us at 815 Princess Street at 7PM for a showing of Everything's Cool. This film got a rave review in the latest issue of Orion magazine. http://www.orionmagazine.org/index.php/articles/review/2976/

This event will be a jointly hosted fundraiser with our friends from Cape Fear Climate Action Network. Admission is $5.....half the price of Mayfaire for twice the content, quite a deal!

Support the new Clean Cars Bill!

2008-06-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

A new bill has been introduced for the summer legislative session. (H2526/S1871). This bill is aimed to cut vehicle based pollution sources 10% by 2020. The exact text has not been posted on the senate website, but follow this link to urge your represenative to support this bill and others related to clean air, biofuels, and the environment.

http://www.environmentnorthcarolina.org/action/global-warming

Reactor Construction Begins......

2008-05-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

That's not a typo, things are in motion down at Winnabow! In the last week we have purchased a fuel oil powered water heater, static mixers, and over $300 in plumbing supplies. Girl Mark spent two days with us, feverishly plumbing and labeling our reactor. She also left us with a long "to-do" list that we'll be working through the rest of this month and into early June.

Custom plumbing parts have been ordered to help us convert the sanitary fittings to more assessible threaded components and should be available in the next few days.

Over the next few weeks we'll be sending out emails regarding workdays and progress at Winnabow. Please email info@capefearbiofuels.com if you would like to be added to the mailing list.
Thanks.

Earth Day 2008

2008-04-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

Everything turned out perfectly for Earth Day 2008....great crowd, great music, and great weather. This year, CFB was joined by our friends from UNC-Pembroke who have a travelling production trailer (complete with a sweet paint job). Together, we occupied our own little village near the bands. The event provided a great opportunity for us to swap stories and plan collaborative events for the future.

Bruce Kenney, one of our long-time members, also brought along his small-scale production equipment and produced a few gallons of "homebrew" throughout the day. He entertained dozens of kids and adults with his production demonstrations, really inspiring people to get involved. We'll try to film his presentation and post it on our website in the near future.

Many thanks to the Earth Day Alliance for another great festival!

Winnabow Update

2008-04-20T19:12:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, the NC Biofuels Center did not choose to fund our proposal for the Winnabow facility. Not to worry, we have enough money to complete a smaller scale project that might work out better given everyone's busy summer schedule.

In the next two weeks we will purchase two conical bottom tanks, piping, and a few pumps which should put things in motion. We will basically be plumbing up a 50 gallon "appleseed" reactor to start with and and then will graduate to our 150 gallon vessel once 3-phase power becomes available at the site.

We'll also be scheduling a work day at Winnabow to finish a few "housekeeping" projects before we begin production.

Hope to see everyone out at Hugh McRae Park this coming weekend for the big Earth Day celebration. http://www.wilmingtonearthday.com/

Thanks

Environmental Film Fest @ UNCW April 11-12th

2008-03-24T19:50:00.000-07:00

The feature "Revolution Green" chronicles the birth of the first biodiesel businesses in US, Pacific Biodiesel based in Hawaii.

The show starts at 2:30PM on Saturday April 12th. A short Q and A session with CFB Board members will follow.

Please make plans to attend!
www.myspace.com/uncweff
www.revolutiongreen.com

Homebrew Competition

2008-03-03T09:12:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to everyone that helped make last weekend's homebrew competition a tremendous success! CFB volunteers, the homebrewers, and WHQR all worked together to pull off a well orchestrated event that generated much needed money for our production facility in Winnabow.

For those of you who missed it, we had a sellout crowd that came to sample over 2 dozen craft brewed ales and lagers. The Casserole put on a helluva show, performing great originals and a wide range of reggae, bluegrass, and rock covers. Check them out at http://www.myspace.com/casseroleband

Listed below are the evening's top three.

1st Prize - "Under the Kilt" Scottish Ale (Jason Salemme, Hillsborough, NC)

2nd Prize - "Donner Party Pale Ale" American Pale Ale (World History Brewers, Wilmington, NC)

3rd Prize - "Slusser Swerve Sauce" Cream Ale (Thomas Slusser, Raleigh, NC)

Please keep an eye on our website for details on next year's event which will build on our success!

Local homebrewers are also encouraged to submit an entry to the upcoming Front Street Brewery contest next month. Contact Kevin Kozak at 910-251-1935 for more information.

Thanks.

Book Review: In Defense of Food

2008-02-17T15:05:00.000-08:00

Michael Pollan’s follow-up to the acclaimed Omnivore’s Dilemma, In Defense of Food offers an intriguing, haiku-like mantra for healthy eating in the 21st century.

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.

This book provides a detailed account of how the “food” we now eat has been manipulated and regulated by politicians and agribusiness giants over the past four decades. The end product is a supermarket full of processed foods which distantly resemble the fare of previous generations.

What or who is to blame for this detour? Pollan points to the world of food science and the practice of nutritionism. Nutritionism is the term used to describe the reductionist process of assigning harm or benefit to one nutrient, while disregarding other relationships with the consumer’s lifestyle or environment. Examples of nutritionism include the recent shift to whole grains and the focus on omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. While these practices can provide tangible benefits to our health, they are unable to make pop-tarts and potato chips a suitable substitute for whole fruits and vegetables.

This highly engineered approach to food has left us with the Western diet. A diet consisting primarily of corn and soy products, little fresh vegetables, and multitudes of preservatives and artificial ingredients. As a result of this diet, obesity and diabetes rates among US citizens has skyrocketed in the past few decades, bringing with it increased health care costs and decreased worker productivity. Studies show that this diet is also consumed “on the go” and with little social interaction, a fact which modern science has shown further impedes our cardiovascular health.

Pollan presents a striking case against the Western diet, yet agribusiness marketing firms continue to latch on to the latest nutritional fads, leading the consumer to believe that they have made good choices.

The solution to this diet lies in the aforementioned basic principles for eating. This solution includes much of the advice already brought us by the “localvore” and slow-food movements, but goes further by presenting a seemingly endless array of scientific and anecdotal data on the benefits of reestablishing a strong relationship with our food, our land, and our farmers.

In short, plant a garden, do most of your shopping at the farmer’s market, stay along the periphery of your local grocery store (where the whole or minimally processed foods are stacked), and spend time cooking and enjoying food again.

It seems like such simple, even insulting advice to our civilization but in this ever changing landscape of processed foods, we can all benefit from a renewed focus on whole foods that have been produced in healthy soils, not in a laboratory.

Wilmington Riverfront Farmer’s Market
http://www.localharvest.org/farmers-markets/M9307

3 Day Biodiesel Workshop April 4-6, 2008

2008-02-04T04:10:00.000-08:00

We have scheduled workshop with one of the premier biodiesel professors in the US....... Maria "Girl Mark" Alovert. Girl Mark has travelled all over the country hosting workshops and providing consultation services to a wide range of non-profits, cooperatives, and production companies.

This class has been designed as a 3-day "crash course" in all things biodiesel. Attendees with litle to no previous experience with biodiesel will learn the basics as well as more advanced throughout the weekend class. The cost will $180 for all three days or $60 for the Friday introductory class alone.

Listed below is a brief synopsis of the event.
Friday, April 4th - Intro to biodiesel (9AM-5PM), basic chemistry, diesel engine processes, titrating, and testing

Saturday, April 5th - System Tricks Day 1 (10AM-4PM), small scale production, reactor design, on-site safety.

Sunday, April 6th - System Tricks Day 2 (10AM-4PM), batch troubleshooting, methanol recovery, water washing, etc.

The introductory class on Friday is highly recommended for inexperienced students. The goal of the workshop is to provide our members with the basic skills that will be necessary to produce high quality fuel at the Winnabow production facility.

More information and registration is available at www.girlmark.com

Board Member elections in March

2008-01-25T08:40:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels' current board has now begun an open search for new board members. Elections of new board members will take place at our general membership meeting in March.
Interested parties are asked to send a brief statement of interest and personal bio to info@capefearbiofuels.com. This information will be posted on the blog prior to elections.

What is involved in being a board member you might ask?

1) Attend 2 meetings a month (1 general/1 board)
2) Organize and orchestrate 3-4 educational events per calendar year (Earth Day, Canola Field Day, etc.)
3) Actively pursue available grants for educational programs
4) Be capable of individual project management

The typical board member will be motivated, somewhat computer savvy, and willing to volunteer their time to a variety of different tasks. Excellent "people" skills are also a plus, as you will be the face of the organization in public forums.

How do the elections work?
Our board can be as large as 9 members, with each individual's term lasting for 12 months. Elections are staggered to allow 4-5 positions to be available every March.

While several members of the original board will be stepping down, 2-3 will remain to provide guidance and assistance to those newly elected.

This is an important time for the co-op as it is an opportunity to bring in new ideas, energy, and viewpoints into our organization.

Thanks for your time and please feel free to call (910-471-5778) or email with questions.
CFB Board

Homebrewed Beer Fundraiser

2008-01-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

Attention all Homebrewers!
We are hosting a competition downtown on February 23rd. Local homebrewers are invited to showcase their best ales and lagers. Tickets available at www.capefearbiofuels.com
See details below....

Auto makers finally get it.........

2008-01-15T06:50:00.000-08:00

This year's Detroit auto show showcased several new diesel, plug-in hybrid, and fuel efficient models from different manufacturers. Toyota also aims to meet CAFE standards well in advance of federal government targets.
http://www.greencarcongress.com/

BP invests in Canadian tar sands

2007-12-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

An abrupt change for the company billing itself as "beyond petroleum"!
http://environment.independent.co.uk/article3239364.ece

Drought Impacts in 2007

2007-12-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Financial impact of 2007's drought.......most counties have received only 50% of their annual rainfall and are now eligible for federal disaster relief.

http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20071218/NEWS/712180347

BEST BOOK THIS CENTURY!

2007-12-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

Alcohol Can Be A Gas by David Blume gets better with each page. While Cape Fear Biofuels has focused its efforts around biodiesel, there is a lot to be learned about ethanol. This 600-page book (30 years in the making) shows how to make more productive, permaculture-based agriculture work to produce alcohol on a community supported basis. No longer do we have to associate ethanol with monoculture corn fields dependent on pesticide. There are many better ways to grow fuel, and David Blume has thoroughly demystified any doubts you could have about ethanol. Biodiesel is still my greatest passion, but then I again I still drive a gasoline powered truck (which could run tomorrow on E85 without modification!).

This is a great Christmas present idea: http://www.alcoholcanbeagas.com/

Also, thank you Valerie Robertson for this wonderfully local and green publication: http://www.goinggreenpublications.com/

Cape Fear is Going Green!

Progress at Co-op Reactor Site

2007-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend brought us closer to a finished structure. Thanks so much to Archie, Kevin, Jason, Eric, Matt, Ronny, and Willie! The only major structural component left are the large barn doors. All the siding, roofing, and entry door are complete. Check out the somewhat fuzzy picture of the progress. We are still looking for a diesel generator--let us know if you know where one is with at least 7.5kw capacity. Next Sunday, Dec. 9th at noon, we will be having another work day--to finish the structure to the point where we can start moving in reactor equipment.

Farm Progress

2007-11-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

A small celebration with organic root beer and ginger ale was shared between Jason, Jim, Matt, and Archie after a very fulfilling afternoon of cooperative construction. More than a third of the rafters were installed by the time the team was joined by Ron, the Polecat concrete man, who delivered 5 cubic yards of concrete. After much mucking, and raking, and smoothing, and troweling--the Co-op barn is taking substantial shape.

Thank you all very much who helped! There will likely be a work party next Veteran's Day weekend. Sorry there are no pictures of today's progress.

While you're here--check out this article--this bill lasts for 5 years and costs taxpayers $280 billion. It's definitely worth writing your senators about, because it affects everyone:

Farm bill hits Senate floor
Nov 2, 2007 Bismarck Tribune

A monumental new farm bill will come onto the floor of the U.S. Senate Monday for debate by the full body. Its official working name, the Food and Energy Security Act of 2007, rightly denotes that it has ramifications reaching beyond America's farms, even beyond the entire agriculture industry.

It's everyone's bill - everyone who eats, all those who are consumers of renewable energy and those who are enthusiasts about wildlife.

http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2007/11/02/news/opinion/editorials/141996.txt

Permaculture Class Schedule

2007-10-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

Several of our members (Neal Taylor and Christopher Yermal) are teaching several workshops on sustainability this fall. Please make plans to attend.

10/30/2007 6-7pm Principles of Permaculture
-This will be a more in-depth discussion of the principles from each of the two founders of Permaculture. We hope to give everyone enough background with this class that you'll leave knowing some good starting places to implement Permaculture in your own place.

11/6/2007 6-7pm Starting Your Own Vegetable Garden
-Want to know where, when, and how to get started with a vegetable garden of your own? This course will discuss different ways of building good garden soil, appropriate fertylizing techniques, options for layout and size, and recommendations for maintaining soil fertility.

11/13/2007 6-7pm Seasonal Eating
-One of the best ways to decrease your "food miles" is to eat foods that are in season and grown locally. In our climate, that also means learning to preserve that fresh food so it's available at other times of the year. This course will introduce ways to gear your eating habits to the seasons and how to can, freeze, dehydrate, etc. those summer crops that you want to enjoy in winter! (Guest Speaker - Trace Ramsey)

11/20/2007 6-7pm Natural Building
-With everyone talking about green building these days, why not take it to the extreme? Natural building is sustainable, with low embodied energy, using materials found locally. Wether it's cob, straw bale, timbers, or thatch, this is a building option that is beautiful and easy on the Earth. This presentation will focus on a strawbale project in Raleigh, with examples from other parts of the country as well. (Guest Speaker - Brent Bishop)

All courses will be held at Tidal Creek's Community Room, above the Co-op(http://www.tidalcreek.coop/find/findus.htm). The topics are subject to change, but I will email everyone a week before each class to confirm the topic and/or guest speaker. The fee will be $20 per class, or $50 for all four classes. Please respond via email or call Neal with the class(es) you would like to attend so we'll have the facilities in order.

Neal Taylor - One World Design(910) 470-1030 or oneworlddesign@ec.rr.com

Oil Prices $85/barrel -- Highest Ever!

2007-10-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

Oil tops $85 for the first time
Crude prices continue recent climb on worries about declining oil inventories, Turkey-Iraq tension.
October 15 2007: 11:32 AM EDT
SINGAPORE (AP) -- Oil prices surged above $85 a barrel Monday for the first time after OPEC said crude production by non-OPEC countries is falling even as global demand for oil is rising.

Prices were also supported by concerns Turkish forces will pursue Kurdish rebels into Iraq, disrupting oil supplies, and by technical buying by investment funds.

http://money.cnn.com/2007/10/15/markets/bc.oilprices.ap/?postversion=2007101511

Progress at Winnabow

2007-10-13T03:26:00.000-07:00

Eight poles in, level surface, baseboards begining to go in to form concrete pad. Friday 10/12/07

New fuel trailer

2007-09-28T14:29:00.000-07:00

Great news!

We are in the process of upgrading our fuel trailer. The old chicken coop (see below) has served us well over the last 18 months, allowing thousands of gallons of B100 to be dispensed to our members and the community tank trail. The flat tire wasn't much to look at but it did deter thieves!

The new setup will have additional battery power, 2 solar panels, and four fully inflated tires. Hopefully, this will translate to an improved fill-up experience for everyone!

The new trailer has been delivered to our 17th street location and should be ready for service by mid-October. Thanks to Bill Burke for organizing and coordinating this effort.

1st generation fuel "station"

New 500 gallon double axle trailer

A Win in Winnabow

2007-09-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday saw two 1500 gallon tanks and a couple of totes (all donated by Invista) make their way to the community reactor site at Archie's farm in Winnabow, Brunswick County. Archie has also been making great progress on the construction of the reactor building. Three of the eight major posts are in the ground, and the rest should be up by week's end. Soon it will be time to add the concrete floor, roofing, and sides. Stay tuned for progress updates.

Record High Oil Prices

2007-09-21T05:56:00.000-07:00

Recent trading has pushed oil above $83 dollars a barrel, thats almost $2/gallon for crude oil! http://www.nymex.com/index.aspx
Closures due to foul weather in the Gulf will likely push prices higher in today's trading. This combined with the recent stock deals brokered in the Middle East only serve to underscore the increased clout and power this oil rich region has on America. Books such as Twilight in the Desert discuss disturbing patterns in oil reserve quotes from Saudi Arabia and others which seldom decline even as demand has skyrocketed.
Please urge our NC representatives to continue supporting alternative energy. The summer session was incredibly productive and supportive and we hope the trend will continue.
http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Senate/Senate.html

Brent

Jatropha article in WSJ

2007-08-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Check out this article that was recently published on jatropha.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118788662080906716.html?mod=hps_us_pageone

Biodiesel legislation roundup

2007-08-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

Our legislators have wrapped up their summer session with lots of exciting bills, listed below are the highlights.......
1) B20 will be mandated in all state schools buses by 2009
2) Removal of tax bond requirement for homebrewers
3) Removal of state road tax on "homebrewed" biodiesel
4) All diesel vehicles purchased by the state must be warranteed for B20 use
5) 5 million dollars allocated for the development of the NC Biofuels Center (research and development, etc.)
6) Allocation of 7.7 million dollars to NC State Energy Office for project development.

Last but not least the state also enacted the first renewable energy portfolio standard in the southeast!!!
It calls for 12.5% of NC power to be generated from renewables (solar, geothermal, wind, etc.) by 2021.

Many thanks to Senators Snow and Albertson and everyone else who worked to pass this important legislation.

I'll keep you posted if anything new develops...
Thanks
Brent

Co-op Reactor Location

2007-07-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

The ink has dried on our lease!
CFB will have a new (first) home base about 20 minutes south of Wilmington! The property is located at 7000 Funston Road in Winnabow, NC. The property owner and our volunteers will be constructing a pole barn over the next 5-6 weeks which will house our 150 gallon reactor and all necessary supplies.

Several local restaurants have also agreed to allow us to collect oil for our reactor. Please keep in touch as we'll be posting volunteer events in the near future.

Also, stay tuned to www.capefearbiofuels.com, as version 2.0 is in the works. Many thanks to Trace and Graphic Moxie http://www.graphicmoxie.com/ for all their hard work.

Brent

Interesting articles......

2007-06-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is a bit academic but the jist is that American's aren't changing how much or what they drive in response to rising fuel costs.....
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/06/study_identifie.html#more

This article discusses the benefits of the local approach to biofuel production
http://www.alternet.org/environment/53956/

Feel free to send any interesting links to info@capefearbiofuels.com and I'll post them....Thanks
Brent

Big Auto launches anti-CAFE standard campaign

2007-05-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

Proof that the automobile industry has no commitment to the environment. Please contact your representatives and tell them fuel econonmy matters!
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/05/automakers_rall.html#more

VW Golf Diesel for Sale in Wilmington

2007-05-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

1985 VW Golf Diesel

new tires, timing belt, oil pump, and CV joints

suitable daily driver or SVO conversion

~180,000 miles

$1,700

Dustin 910-796-6849

New Biodiesel Bill Introduced!

2007-05-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Representative Pricey Harrison has introduced an exciting new bill aimed at reducing road tax on alternative fuels in NC. The new bill (H2003) would remove all NC road tax from 100% biodiesel!! The bill would also help those distributing lower blends, for example distributors selling B20 could receive a 20% rebate.

In order to make this bill a reality, we need help from our members and the interested public.........Please contact your local representative (http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/counties/counties.pl?County=New%20Hanover) and urge them to co-sponsor and/or vote for this legislation.

Thanks for your help....stay tuned to the blog for updates on H2003!
Brent

Pimp my ride does biodiesel?!

2007-05-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

The boys at pimp my ride may have missed the point on this,,,,,,but it makes for some interesting viewing. The end product is an 800 hp Chevy Impala that underwent a complete engine change. They show some brief footage of crushing and facilities from Seattle. Its worth it for the sound bites alone (yo mad mike, what IS biodiesel?) Enjoy
http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?name=features&id=1557647&vid=145907

Le'ad Memorial Fund

2007-04-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

Roey, one of our cofounders, has recently lost his younger brother Le'ad. In honor and memory of Le'ad, Roey's friends in Wilmington have established a memorial fund at Cape Fear Biofuels. Our thoughts and prayers are with Roey and his family during their time of mourning.
Please send donations and cards to the following address.

2213 Camellia Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403

Thank you for your time and support.
CFB Executive Board

Biofuels/Green Building Bill Introduced!

2007-03-09T09:06:00.000-08:00

Bill spurs 'green' N.C. economy
Grants would pay for research, construction

Sen. Charlie Albertson of Duplin County figures this is the year to go green in the General Assembly.
Albertson, a longtime supporter of renewable energy and a member of the Legislative Commission on Global Climate Change, introduced a bill this week that would set aside $15 million a year to "help grow a green economy" in the state.
More specifically, the $15 million would be split among those involved in the biofuels industry and the "green building" industry as well as clean technologies and renewable energy projects.
The bill has 10 co-sponsors and companion legislation introduced in the House by Rep. Joe Tolson, an Edgecombe County Democrat.
"I've introduced renewable energy bills for the past three or four sessions without much luck," said Albertson, a Democrat. "But all of sudden there is far more interest this year."
This week Albertson introduced a different bill involving energy research that attracted about 40 co-sponsors. It would provide $3.5 million for N.C. State University to build a facility in Duplin country for research related to ethanol and biodiesel.
"There is a definite momentum here," said Michael Shore, who directs air quality programs in the Southeast for the group Environmental Defense. "Our job is to make sure we support the good ideas in this wave."
The $15 million in Albertson's bill would be administered through the state's Energy Office. The office administers about $8 million in federal money that comes from court settlements with oil companies involving overcharges in the 1970s. But the money is due to run out soon.
If the bill is approved, the first job of the Energy Office would be drawing up guidelines for those seeking grants.
Small companies, especially in the biofuels industry, will be encouraged to expand their efforts as part of legislation.
A significant amount will also be set aside to grow a market for "green building." The term refers to a wide range of activities from materials to marketing in the building trades with an eye toward energy conservation.

shameless propaganda.........

2007-02-27T18:16:00.000-08:00

The new magnets are in and they look great!! They are 4" x 6" and are full color! CFB will be selling them for $6 and they will be available at our next general meeting and at all future events. Send an email to info@capefearbiofuels.com to purchase one sooner. Thanks to September Signs for doing such a nice job. Hope to see everyone soon. Brent

Trip to Miracle Acres

2007-01-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday a group of us headed to Columbus County to meet Harry Hart at Miracle Acres Farm. Harry is a progressive farmer who has begun experimenting with Canola as an alternative to winter wheat. He has been working with the NC Solar Center and several farms throughout the state to study the economics of the crop.

Canola is a modified rapeseed that was developed in Canada. Modifications to the plant were done to reduce the acid levels within the oil, making it more acceptable as a food product. In the southeast, Canola is typically planted in October and harvested from May to June. This rotation does not disrupt the normal planting schedules for soybeans or corn and generates more revenue (and fuel) for the farm than winter wheat.

The plant grows well as a cover crop and has the potential yield over 100 gallons of oil per acre. This yield is superior to soybeans and peanuts. The oil also has improved cold flow properties when compared to virgin soy-based biodiesel.

Harry and his son, John, gave our group an introduction to the canola planting and harvesting process as well as the projected economic returns from the research plots.

Cape Fear Biofuels will be working with Harry to host a “Canola Field Day” sometime in May. Members of the farming community as well as interested citizens and media staff will be encouraged to attend. Stay tuned for further details.

Thanks to Harry and his family for hosting us on Saturday.

Trailer Lock at 17th street

2006-11-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

In order to provide security at the 17th street location a combination lock has been installed. The combination is the same as before. If you are a member and would like the combination please call one of the following board members. A modified payment method is also in the works. Stay tuned.....
Brent
910.471.0005
John
910.604.0050

New fueling location!!!!!

2006-11-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!
As you may have noticed our blog has been quiet over the past several weeks, but we are back with some incredible news.........Cape Fear Biofuels will have a fueling location at 110 South 17th Street in downtown Wilmington. This involved a lot of time and effort by our board members. In order to safely and legally occupy this space we had to research local zoning regulations in addition to securing liability insurance.
At the present time the property is unpaved and has no power. However, over the coming weeks and months we will be installing a more permanent fueling facility that meets both EPA and local fire code regulations.
In the interim, the fuel trailer will be located on-site. A new combination lock will be added as well as a lock box for fuel payments. Stay tuned to the blog for the latest information. Thanks to all for their patience and support in this project.
Brent

Who killed the electric car?

2006-09-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick review of Who killed the electric car.....
A great documentary about the untimely demise of the EV-1, an electric car developed by GM. (http://www.sonyclassics.com/whokilledtheelectriccar/electric.html). The film provides a historical context for the current electric vehicle debate and follows the evolution of the legislation that brought the EV-1 into existence.
The film points the finger at the usual suspects (big oil, detroit, etc.), providing one more reason to distrust big business and the government. It points to plug-in hybrids as the true car of the future and provides ample evidence to refute the ideas of the hydrogen economy.
In short, it provides an interesting perspective and is well orchestrated, providing the viewer with both sides of the story. The footage of "dubya" operating the new hydrogen pump, and GM's PR people squirming are worth the price of admission alone.
It will be showing at Cinematique (Thalian Hall) on Tuesday and Wednesday at 7:30PM. Stop by early to check out the electric vehicles out front.

Coop Reactor Workers

2006-09-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

A whole lot got done today. Thanks to Matt, Joe, Neal, Doug, Ben, Jason, the Airwinger, the teacher from the Private School. (I am bad with names), My brother in law David, and my step son Brandon. Am I forgetting any one Matt? Blame goes to me for getting the Tanker stuck in the "small" ditch that got substantially larger when I Drove in it. I was attempting to move the tanker to the rear of the property, so that it not as visible from the road. I will get it unstuck. (somehow)
I got stung by a wasp the first five minutes I was working, but I do not think there were any other injuries. Other the tanker being stuck it was a great day. The land got cleaned up a whole lot. There are some very hard workers who are members of our Coop, and we are lucky to have them. We now have a huge pile of brush, and a huge pile of trash. The brush will get burnt, the trash taken to the dump. Thanks again to all who helped. John

Biofuels Service Station in Oregon

2006-09-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

One of our members (Tom Charest) recently moved to Oregon and sent us some pictures from the recent Sequential Biofuels grand opening. Sequential, based in Oregon (http://www.sqbiofuels.com), has an amazing array of biofuels at over a dozen locations along the coast.

In keeping with the environmental mission, the group has also installed a green roof at this location. These function as a living biotic system, reducing the amount of polluted runoff leaving the site.

In the coming months and years ahead CFB hopes to develop similar fueling stations in our area. Providing fuel in this manner will increase awareness and use of biofuels in the Cape Fear region.

Convenient Fueling

2006-09-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

We have been looking for a convenient location for the fueling trailer since its conception. Still no luck. Now we are having to move it again, this time back to my house. I do not know if anyone reads this blog, other then the people who have posted to it, but If any of our members who do know of any commercial entity that may have space available to park a trailer which takes up one parking space, and also room on one side of it for a car to pull next to, fill up, and pull through please let us know! We do NOT require any electricity, and biodiesel is not a hazrdous material, nor is it flamable. Thanks to all who have worked to bring the fueling stations into existence.

Back from the trip. (finally)

2006-08-29T16:16:00.000-07:00

Well, It was a sucess. I managed to make it. AFter arriving in phoenix, and packing up my mother in laws stuff, we headed back to NC. After About 2 hours of driving I was too tired to go on, so we stopped to let my brother in law drive. this lasted only about 30 seconds, as he said he could not keep the truck on the road. SO we stopped and I slept for a few hours. In the end, I changed the power steering pump.the water pump, the power steering gear box, the injection pump, and the rag joint. All in parking lots. I went through 6 vegetable oil filters, and ended up using about 25 gallons of diesel. all in all I went through about 600 gallons of fuel, so I would consider the trip a success. I think it showa that with a little iniative, and work, even a 21 year old truck with over 200,000 (maybe 300,000) miles on it is capable of. ON this trip I saved over $1500 in fuel. MOre then making up for the repair costs, which I consider to be an investment in the future of the truck. This truck has also picked up fuel for CFBF driving on V.O. and Biodiesel. It now has over 10,000 miles on WVO. The pictures are the ones I took on the way out there. the on in front of the Gas Station is kind of funny. I was thinking maybe they went out of business because of people like us. While I was filling up my V.O. tank, An unmarked Police Ford Explorer came up and parked next to my truck. I asked if they needed anything. They said no, they were using me for cover. They proceeded to pull over four people for running the stop sign coming of the Interstate ramp. While FIltering on the fly, I used the generator to power the hotwater heater and pump. I hated to use the gasoline, but I managed to filter about 40gal of V.O. for every gallon of gas. When I got to Phoenix I purchased a 2000 watt power inverter that powers the pump and the heater off of my trucks alternator. HOpe every one has been well. Hopefully we will be going and picking up a load of fuel this week. thanks!

Biodiesel on NPR

2006-08-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

I heard this yesterday.......an interesting story about the evolution of biodiesel in Texas. Great interviews with Willie and Kinky Friedman. Enjoy..... http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5698538

around the world on grease

2006-08-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well, not really, but it feels like it, right now I am sitting in a cheap hotel in the middle of Arkansas. Today I stopped in Memphis and purchased a new injection pump. My old one had been giving me problems since I bought my truck. I changed it in the Napa Parking lot. I had not slept in 32 hours, and it was the first time I had swapped a stanadyne pump. But it was definately worth it,. The truck now starts the first time, with no ether, and no glow plugs! it is amazing. NOw to talk about oil, last night, I decided to stop and try and get some from behind a dairy queen. I was amazed at how clean the oil was, but low and behold, right as I was about to turn on the pump, The police decided to show up and ask what I was doing, he was very nice, but said I should ask when they are open, and If I wanted, I could go by waffle house and ask them. I allready knew that waffle house had nasty oil. ewww. SO on I drove. Like a sign (well actually it was a sign) I saw a bill board. chinese buffet, 3 miles. I collected over 100gallons of the cleanest oil I have ever seen. I am going to be relying on this to get me most of the way to phoenix. If I remember correctlty the exit was 226 on I40 in TN, and it was the "daily buffet" I would like to think it is allways this clean, but it is definately worth checking out if in need. any way, I am tired, its been about 40 hours now, time to go to bed, still got about 1300 miles left.

Wild wasps and busted hoses

2006-07-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

The other day I was filling up with biodiesel at the fueling trailer located at Traces house. As I was putting the Nozzle and the Hose back on, a leak sprung in the hose, making it obviously clear that it is time for a new Hose. We will be replacing the current hose with a 20 foot one with a swivel, and the little digital meter with one that is more clearly legible, and more user friendly. Right after I put the hose back, a huge wasp flew right at me, hitting me in the eye, but did not sting me. As I ran away, (cowardly) I noticed there were four or five of them. They were acting like that had consumed massive quantities of Tequila, and were having a party. Swarming back and forth, flying into the trucks window, and running into each other. Fearing for my safety, I was not able to record my fuel use. I came back the next day to see if they had gone, and they were still there, flying around wildly, apparently some of them were attempting to mate. It appears that the wasps are going to be forced to leave or perish, unless someone knows of a wasp relocation program. I do not know what bearing this has on the large scheme of things, but it is definitely news for the wasp community. If you know of any wild wasps, tell them to stay away from the Fueling Trailer.

Oil Price Outlook

2006-07-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

So here we have an outlook of oil prices until 2007. I think these are pretty conservative and of course don't take into account the occasional spikes caused by war, hurricanes, or large scale attacks on oil installations. However we should be expecting the barrel price of oil to go up to $83 a barrel by 2007. This would put gas at about $3.20 a gallon. Time to talk to your friends about getting a diesel.

Goodbye Trailer, Hello Tanker; Good bye Tanker, Hello Trailer.

2006-07-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Today Trace and I pulled a flip flop. I took the fuel trailer over to his house, and Brought the tanker to my house. Hopefully I will get no complaints, as I live in the county. Fuel is now available at Traces house, which is hopefully a more conveinent location for the majority of our members. He lives around 16th st. If some members would still like to get fuel at my house, I plan on keeping a tote with a few gallons in it to bring to the meetings and what not, for which I have a meter and pump. So no exuses now! Go fuel up!

Painted Tanker

2006-07-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is...the finished product. I didn't paint or do anything to the cab and I don't plan on it at this point.

Thanks to the Wilmington zoning department, the tanker truck has to find a new home by the 21st (this Friday). It will most likely live at John's house, and I will host the tank trailer until it finds a more permanent home.

I will be sad to see the truck go as I have spent uncountable hours with it, and I think it shows.

Trace

Fuel for Rockers

2006-07-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

Well, the trip to The House Of Blues in Myrtle Beach was a sucess. I left this morning, with a little over 100 gallons of b100 and fueled up three tour buses, putting around 30 gallons in each one. They intend to fill up the rest of the way with diesel, giving them a 20% blend. Hopefully next time around they will just use b100. I was wishing that They were allready on b100, as one of them was running and the fumes were killing my braincells. Reverb is also a non profit organization, and hopefully we will have further dealings with them.

Reactor Vessel

2006-07-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we picked up the Reactor Vessel. We also picked up a load of fuel. Fuel will be available again on Monday July 17th. Now that we have the reactor vessel, we can begin to aquire the components needed to complete the reactor. We will be buying things like stainless steel pipe, fittings, and a static mixer. I really want to thank everyone who worked on the grant to make this possible, and also the members who offered the use of their vehicles to pick up this load of fuel and the reactor. It was definately a full load. My digital camera has been babyized, but pictures will follow. Enjoy the week. John

General Meeting on Thursday at 6PM

2006-07-11T06:24:00.000-07:00

Make plans to join us at Tidal Creek Co-op on Oleander Drive. We will be discussing fuel locations, community outreach projects, and our new reactor. Hope to see you there!

Also, check out this interesting article on biodiesel and ethanol
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/07/researchers_ass.html#more

Gas Prices

2006-06-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

I find myself looking at these graphs a lot. People often ask us why our biodiesel is so expensive. My answer usually amounts to, "it won't be for long."

$5,000 Raised at Fundraiser

2006-06-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone that volunteered, contributed, and attended June 22nds fundraiser "Biofuels: the Future is Here." It was an incredible evening, with over 250 people in attendance the show of support was, well, somewhat overwhelming. If we learned anything that night it was that Wilmington as a community, when asked, will support a cause they see is just. It also appear that our voices have been heard. Just a few minutes I recieved an email from our State Senator Julia Boseman:

On Tuesday, the Senate's environment committee approved the "Energy Independence Act," a proposal that provides consumers who buy hybrid cars and energy-efficient home appliances tax credits for their purchases. This measure will also give consumers relief from rising gasoline prices by bringing alternative fuels to North Carolina through tax credits for manufacturers that produce biodiesel. It is our responsibility to conserve and protect resources today, in order to have them to pass on to our future generations.

Happy Independence Weekend Everyone!

Board Meeting Minutes 06/29/06

2006-06-29T23:00:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting – June 29, 2006

Attendance – Bill, Brent, Trace, Roey, Hayssam + Sean Jensen representing SEACC

Reactor issues- Double jacketed 150-gallon capacity vessel for $1500. Solar heating is an option: there is a 65% government tax credit on the unit and installation till the end of this year, and it saves about 30% on the power bill every month. Jason Gillikin from IS4Business contacted Hayssam and offered to connect us with one of their suppliers that install solar heating systems. Scrap metal is also an option (1.25/pd.)

Vote for a reactor is put off for another meeting. Beforehand, we should craft a plan of the strategy we will be adopting based on production needs and sales expectations.

Bill to head an engineering study and Brent an environmental study to craft a plan.

Secof Construction to donate a portion of land next to River Road to locate our biodiesel reactor. Trace proposes to build a greenhouse on the unused part of the land.

We now have $6500 in the bank from the fundraiser and the fuel sales.

Details of partnership with SEACC:

CFB to keep its back account for when we get our own non-profits status but all transactions at this time to go through SEACC’s account. SEACC to charge us for $50 account management/membership fees per month and 15% of any successful grant written for us.

Maybe a Thank You Dinner/Letter Writing Event at the Mellow Mushroom with the key people who helped us

Vote on posting the amount raised on the website.

Currents article - A bit late

2006-06-25T06:39:00.000-07:00

Party and Learn With Cape Fear Biofuels

Gourmet biodiesel

2006-06-23T04:48:00.000-07:00

As I walked into Corporate Canvas last night my jaw hit the floor. There in a chic downtown gallery, I was surrounded by beautiful art, classical music, wine, and……biodiesel?
It would be an understatement to call the event a success! Over two hundred people from every age group and background were in attendance. Some of our friends from Piedmont Biofuels even dropped by after seeing a flyer in Brunswick County.
The event began at six and the room was packed before seven. Roey warmed up the crowd with a speech on the history of petroleum and the future of our co-op. After an introduction by Bill, Larry Shirley took the floor and began his infectious “state of the union” address on the socio-economic, political, and environmental issues surrounding the petroleum industry. I challenge anyone to sit through this speech and not change the way they drive!
As I made my way through the crowd I spoke with many of our distinguished guests, members, and corporate sponsors all of which provided words of support and praise for our organization. In short, the room was electric, providing the energy our group will need to achieve our goals. We have an opportunity to change the status quo along our coast and I look forward to the challenges ahead.
The event itself was the result of hundreds of hours of volunteered time from our board, general members, and event coordinator (Deva Jensen). A huge thanks goes out to everyone who helped out to make this a reality!
~Brent

Biofuels on the Radio

2006-06-18T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
Be sure to tune in to WAAV 980 AM tomorrow morning from 8-9am! I'll be sitting in with Rhonda Bellamy to discuss all things biodiesel. The show has a "call in" format and should be a great opportunity to reach a new audience. Wish me luck....
~Brent

Oh, tanker...

2006-06-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, two weeks has turned into two months and the tanker is still not finished. I have abandoned the hand scraping and sanding in favor of a 4 1/2 inch angle grinder with sanding disc attachment. The old paint and rust vanishes under 10,000 RPMs and good old shoulder pressure.

As John said, the tanker isn't going to win any beauty contests, but it is a great, solid vehicle. We got the PTO to turn over, and it just needs a bit of coaxing to turn off. All the pump valves work, and I mapped everything out as far as the plumbing goes. The original schematics are great if the number tags were still in place on all of the pump parts. Most are missing or painted over however.

I will continue clearing paint and rust and blasting primer everywhere. We will soon have logo stickers for the cab doors and hopefully a connection for doing some of the routine maintenance. A little JB Weld on the coolant distribution tank, some new belts and air hoses and we'll be ready. Except...

There is still the issues of the 500 gallons of jet fuel in the tank. It would be great if we could filter it and blend it with B100 for use in off road applications (generators, tractors, etc.) or someones beater vehicle. Any takers? We'll make you a deal.

Trace

Board Meeting Minutes 06/15/06

2006-06-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting – June 15th, 2006

Attendance: Roey, Matt, Hayssam, John, Brent, Sarah, Deva + Sean Jensen to represent SEACC

Fundraiser

4 pieces of art already delivered; potential total of 10 pieces.
Currents to take a picture of us tomorrow on top of the tanker.
56 tickets sold so far – 260 maximum capacity.
Trace got a quote for 200 iron circles of the CFB logo for $230.
Mr. Dobo might be coming to our fundraiser. He is currently involved in a nonprofit who advocates fuel cells to middle school students.
Sarah still working on the fleet survey.
SEACC and Una Luna will be advertising our event on their e-mail databases.
We are on the event calendar of WHQR.
Matt to check with Corporate Canvas how many tables they have.
Board members to have a lanyard with their name, title and the CFB logo; sponsors have their name and the organization; general public to have a “Hello, my name is”.
June 18thà Star News ad`vertisement.
June 19th à Brent on air with Rhonda Bellamy

SEACC fiscal sponsorship

Sean Jensen exposes the advantages of a full collaboration with SEACC. We need to have all checks written to SEACC with a mention in the memo that it is for CFB. Then we need to treat with Janet Swinton to get checks from SEACC. We need to discuss this further with SEACC to understand how often and how fast we will be able to use our funds.

Fueling Station

Roey met with Secof Construction. They have a property on the road to Carolina Beach zoned heavy industrial. They might be interested in giving us a 5-year lease and benefiting of the 35% tax break available for fueling infrastructures.

Sparkplug Grant

2006-06-09T05:37:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce that we were awarded a grant from the Sparkplug Foundation (www.sparkplugfoundation.org).

The Sparkplug Foundation "supports projects primarily in three areas of focus: music, education and grassroots organizing." We are in the realm of education and organizing, but does anyone know if John Albert can sing?

A portion of the grant will go to SEACC (our fiscal sponsor for non-profit status) for administrative support which includes accounting and grant management. The balance will go directly to the construction of a reactor system and setting up at least six workshops. Some of the funds will also be used for office supplies and website updates.

Regarding the workshops - in order to stay in line with the grant guidelines, we need to direct our energy at populations that may be left out of the biofuels discussion at the moment. I see this as a good time to take our education to farmers, "mom and pop" fleets and smaller fuel distributors.

We have begun the search for a proper reactor vessel for this project, and we will keep you updated on the progress.

Thanks for all your hard work and support,

Trace

General meeting reminder

2006-06-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that we will be having our general meeting at Tidal Creeks Co-op on Oleander Drive at 6PM on Thursday June 8th. Please come out to learn more about our fundraiser, fuel locations, and oil collection!

The B100 Tank Trail

2006-06-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

A quick update on our fuel availability. Over the past month we've sold several hundred gallons of B100 to our members in Wilmington. We've also christened the B100 tank trail by providing fuel for our friends from Bull City Biodiesel over the holiday weekend. In the near future, we plan to make a second purchase to maintain availability throughout the summer.
Several of our members are also studying for their CDL test, so we can begin making 2,000 gallon shipments a (legal) reality.
At the present time our tank is operating at a residential location on the outskirts of Wilmington. Please call John Albert at 910-604-0050 for details on obtaining B100 in Wilmington.

Thanks to all for their support of alternative fuels in the port city!

Busy with the fundraiser

2006-06-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Biofuels: The Future is now

Corporate Canvas

107 South Front St.

Wilmington, NC

6-9PM

Sorry for the delay in posts....our group has been busy planning our upcoming fundraiser. The amount of work and emails generated by this process have been amazing. Listed below are the highlights of the past few weeks.....

1) Our keynote speaker, Larry Shirley, Director of the NC State Energy Office has been confirmed and all of his arrangements have been made. He'll be flying in from DC just for our event!

2) Hundreds of invitations have been mailed (Thanks to Neela Rajendra for the design and Matt Nieburger for the database development)

3) NC Biotech Center has provided us with a generous grant to cover our expenses

4) Many local artists have donated original works for inclusion in our silent auction

5) Many local restaurants have donated food for our "Taste of Downtown" theme

6) Many local businesses have signed on as event sponsors

And we're not out of the woods yet, please send us an email (info@capefearbiofuels.com) if you

would like to volunteer

Biofuels Legislation

2006-05-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

Summary of Proposed 2005-2006 NC Legislation

Alternative Fuel Related Bills

NC SB1150 / NC HB 1296- Renewable Fuels Motor Fuels Tax Exemption

Senate Sponsors: Senators Jenkins and Albertson. Referred to: Finance

House Sponsor: Representative Joe Hackney. Referred to: Finance

*Eliminates state motor fuels tax on biodiesel and ethanol. Currently this would mean a $0.299 per gallon reduction for B100 & E100. Per gallon tax reduction benefit is in proportion to the amount of renewable fuel used, providing a $0.05 tax reduction for a B20 biodiesel blend, $0.03 for E10, and a $0.21 tax reduction for E85 ethanol.

*Proposed committee substitute will provide a ‘renewable fuel tax credit’ to fuel distributors rather than eliminating motor fuel tax. Per gallon tax credit for 100% biodiesel and ethanol would be equivalent to the ‘per gallon’ motor fuels tax and adjusted bi-annually at the same time the fuel tax is adjusted. For biodiesel and ethanol blended with petroleum, value of tax credit is in proportion to the amount of alternative fuel utilized in the blend.

Benefits:

ü Direct benefit to the public by encouraging more access to cleaner burning, renewable fuels at service stations

ü Reduces transportation emissions, supports development of in-state fuels production by increasing demand

ü Diversifies fuel supply, making NC economy more strong and secure

ü A monthly tax credit would go directly to the distributor of the fuel allowing for subsequent lower costs to be passed on to everyone

ü A tax credit for fuel distributors would encourage the use of biodiesel and ethanol by all fuel users since schools, municipalities and state government do not pay the state motor fuels tax and therefore would not benefit from eliminating this tax

Fiscal impact: Approximately 1.5 million gallons of biodiesel was used in 2005, most of it by government entities and 5 million gallon of ethanol was used, mostly sold at service station as an E10 blend. If tax credit was in place (at current usage) this represents a fiscal impact of $1.9 million annually.

NC SB 1038/HB 1595- Mobile Source Emission Reduction Program

Sponsors: Senators Clark Jenkins and Charlie Albertson. Referred to: Agriculture/Environment/Natural Resources

House Sponsors: Representatives Martha Alexander and Joe Tolson. Referred to: Finance

*Establishes variable motor vehicle registration fees based on vehicle’s pollution and fuel economy score to generate funds for public and private sector use of alternative fuel and advanced transportation technologies. Funds would be distributed through the State Energy Office for transportation projects that support clean air renewable energy objectives.

*Proposed committee substitute will set vehicle surcharge from $2-$14 annually.

Benefits:

ü Funds raised in direct proportion to the effect on the environment - the “polluter pays principle”

ü Source of revenue to support public and private projects that address transportation emissions

ü Supports development of clean technology industries in NC and improves air quality

NC SB 1015/ HB1766 -Alternative Fuel Vehicle Tax Credit

Senate Sponsors: Senators Clark Jenkins and Charlie Albertson. Referred to: Finance

House Sponsors: Representatives Grier Martin and Pricey Harrison. Referred to: Finance

A $2,000 tax credit for alternative fuel and hybrid electric vehicles

Benefits:

ü Will reduce harmful emissions, helping North Carolina improve air quality

ü Compliments Federal incentives which will decrease as number of hybrids manufactured increases

ü Provides direct incentive to public to encourage purchase of clean burning fuel efficient vehicle purchases

These bills have been endorsed by:

Triangle Clean Cities Coalition : www.trianglecleancities.org

NC Energy Policy Council; http://www.energync.net/epc/members.html

Consider adding your organization, business or individual name to this list as an endorsement of individual bills or through encouraging these efforts through a broad statement of support such as:

“Organization, business or individual name” supports enactment of legislation in the 2006 Legislative Session to increase availability and use of biodiesel and ethanol in transportation fuel sold in North Carolina, to implement tax credits and fees to encourage purchase of alternative fuel and hybrid gasoline/electric vehicles, related refueling infrastructure, and to improve fuel diversity, efficiency and economy.

Send endorsements to (with organization website or individual email/contact) to:

Tobin Freid: tobin@tjcog.org

Anne Tazewell: anne_tazewell@ncsu.edu

New Board for Cape Fear Biofuels

2006-04-26T05:57:00.000-07:00

John Albert
Bill Burke
Matt Collogan
Ricky Harper
Hayssam Hoballah
Deva Jensen
Brent Manning
Trace Ramsey
Roey Rosenblith

Tanker Progress

2006-04-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Commiting to a no-power tools restoration on the tanker has been trying at times, but I think I am getting into a groove on this project. So far I have focused only on the paint and body work, but there will be plenty of work to do on the new pump apparatus. I have a solar panel and battery box but I am waiting a bit the buy the battery, pump and meter.

There is also some work to do in finding light lenses and reflectors as well as some sort of exhaust patch. Oh, and if anyone could come by and figure out how to work the main PTO driven pump I would really appreciate it. The PTO engage switch seems to be missing...

Here you go:

I hope to have the whole thing painted in two weeks. Lets see how it goes.

Trace

Cape Fear Biofuels Tank Trailer and Star News Article

2006-04-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here we go!!!!
So after 2 years of dreaming, 1 year of homebrewing, and several months of organizing and planning Cape Fear Biofuels finnally sold some fuel this week!!!! A sincere thank you goes out to all the members, the board, Piedmont Biofuels, and everyone else that pitched in along the way. We couldn't of done any of this without you! Take a look at this incredible article written by Gareth McGrath of the Wilmington Star News: Group has fuel to go with cause

So if you want to be among the first to take your car for a spin on some local fuel drop by Hugh Macrae Park where we will be despensing fuel at the Earth Day festivities.

Roey

[Update] 4/22/06 Check out this out! We got props from the Star News Editorial Board for Earthday. That's two days of coverage baby!!!! Take a read: Energy Future Starts Now Also we got coverage from two TV Channels, WWAY3 and WECT6. I also heard reports that we were mentioned on the Big Talker! A more indepth report on Earthday will be forthcoming, but lets just say it went well.

[Update] For those of you that missed it here is our WECT6 Video Coverage, (you may want to temporarily turn off your Pop-up blocker for optimal viewing).

General Meeting Minutes April 13, 2006

2006-04-16T22:57:00.000-07:00

Attendance- Excellent turnout, 30+ people

New business-

Fuel- all members were brought up to speed on the impending fuel purchase and pricing.

Corporate Canvas Fundraiser- Larry Shirley to be keynote speaker for this event. All members asked to solicit items and/or services for silent auction. It has been confirmed that it will taking place on June 15^th.

Panel Discussion-“The Politics of Oil and Renewable Fuels: An Educational Forum” April 25^th at UNCW (100 Morton Hall) 7-8:30. Three professors from UNCW will discuss various aspects of current global petroleum issues.

Formal Board Elections- All candidates were given time to discuss their qualifications and vision for CFB. Following these speeches, ballots were passed out and the results will be made available within the week. A decision needs to be made on Monday as to whether or not to allow the 6 absentee ballots cast prior to the meeting by those who could not make it, to revote because of the existence of a write in candidacy that occurred during the general meeting and which was not included in the options sent out a few days prior to absentee voters. Once that is established an announcement will be made within the week.

Board Meeting Minutes April 10th, 2006

2006-04-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Member Meeting April 10th, 2006

Attendance- Sarah, Bill, Roey, Brent, Matt, Trace

New Business-

Fuel Purchase- Fuel to be purchased from Piedmont Biofuels on Friday. 500 gallons to be picked up, the first commercially available in Wilmington! Press release to be drafted and sent out to local media outlets. Price to be determined, likely between 3.25-3.50 per gallon.

Fund raiser- Everyone was asked to contact artists, restaurant owners, and business owners who may be interested in donating an item to the silent auction. Event to be held June 15^th at Corporate Canvas in downtown Wilmington. A preliminary invite list was circulated, over 100 names already collected.

Earth Day- The event at Hugh McRae will be staged by Matt, Sarah, and Roey. Additional board members and general members will be in attendance to offer relief to our core group. Fuel will be available, but will be dispensed in 5 gallon carboys due to county park regulations.

Values Discussion-

Everyone in attendance was asked to discuss their “vision” for the future of CFB, as we feel the need to present a uniform message to the general public. The group agreed that CFB should reach out to the community providing jobs, education, and “locally-grown” fuel. Research and development goals were also listed, as CFB hopes to create active partnerships with local businesses and farmers. The group also agreed that grant writing/research should begin immediately as funding opportunities are becoming more competitive in the biofuels sector.

Tanker Update

2006-04-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

The tanker is now safe and sound at my house (thanks to John for driving it over). It fits pretty well in the driveway, and I have only had a few awkward stares, mostly from folks who are just passing through the neighborhood.

Today, after staring at the truck for a bit, I decided that it would be best scraped and primed by hand, DIY style. This will save a lot of money, give a chance to know every part of the truck (find problems) and provide some much needed repetetive motion therapy. Nothing like scraping paint to set the mind free.

After sitting on top of the tank and scraping off paint and rust for a few minutes, at least three neighbors popped by and offered to help on the scraping/painting project. They also offered better tools than I had available and some pointers on getting some primer for cheap.

We are starting on the top of the tank with the scraping and it will be painted black to keep the tank heated by the sun. Depending on how long it takes and what it looks like after it is painted, we should have a rough estimate on how long it will take to do the entire tank this way. We will most likely paint the sides and back white and leave it open for the logo and possible a mural. Several folks have expressed interest in painting a mural, but we will have to see what their ideas are.

If you want to come by and help or just want to look at the tanker, send me an email or give me a call. My contact info is with my board biography on the blog.

Trace

Candidate List for Cape Fear Biofuels Board Elections

2006-04-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

As many of you know we are going to be electing the first official board of Cape Fear Biofuels on Thursday April 13th 6PM at Tidal Creek (www.tidalcreek.coop) . If you are interested in running for elections we will be more than willing to take your information (please send it to roey@capefearbiofuels.com) and post it to this blog as well as bring it to the meeting on April 13th. To run and vote you must be a paid member of Cape Fear Biofuels (which you can become via our website at www.capefearbiofuels.com, or by mailing a check to 2213 Camellia Drive Wilmington, NC 28403). Below are the candidates that have so far sent in biographical information (note this doesn't reflect all the candidate that are running as I expect more information to come in soon).

John Albert

John Albertborn 2-26-1980 in Baton Rouge Louisiana.Happily married with 2 kids.
Full time student at CFCC. Work for Crawford doors. Own a few diesel vehicles (5 or 6) . I will help the Coop in whatever way I can and will do what it takes to make biofuels (biodiesel) an accesible, reliable, and economical source of energy for the residents of the Cape Fear Region. I've also designed my own Straight Vegetable Oil conversion system that can be replicated for $200 and designed and built most of the tank trailer system that will be used for our first fuel distribution point.

Bill Burke

Bill Burke is a PE Engineer with Quality Technical Services, a local firm which he co-owns. Bill has been involved with Cape Fear Biofuels since its inception, and assisted with its creation every step of the way. He has run a number of businesses in his career and believes he can add value to the organization with his insight in both the financial and technical fields. Presently he sits on the interim board and is looking forward to bring more biofuels to our region of North Carolina.

Matt Collogan

As a staunch supporter of Cape Fear Biofuels from the begining, I continue to develop my advocacy for liquid renewable fuels every day. I have focused my recent research at UNCW on biodiesel and feel that I can bring knowledge and perspective to CFB. Through my contacts as an environmental educator with New Hanover County (and my affiliation with a number of environmental groups in Wilmington), I have helped organize CFB's presence at the upcoming Earth Day Celebration and the upcoming panel discussion at UNCW (discussion is entitled: The Politics of Oil and Renewable Energy: An Educational Forum). I am inspired to continue helping CFB in any way possible and my personal goals include educating and generating interest in the community about the benefits of using domestic biofuels and using the cooperative model. By electing me to the board, I ensure you that I will continue to be committed to bringing biofuels to our co-op members.

Cal Geary

Cal Geary teaches Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology and is the Lead Instructor in the Marine Systems Concentration at Cape Fear Community College. He has been working on diesel engine applications for over 50 years. He also assisted with the coordination of the Homebrew Biodiesel Workshop at Cape Fear Community College.

Ricky Harper

My qualifications are that I own two diesel vehicles (F250 truck & VW Jetta car) and operate them both on home brew biodiesel. I also have two Bachelors of Science degrees from NC State University with majors in animal science and poultry science. I was a pre-
medical and pre-veterinary student and graduated magna cum laude in 1982. I received laboratory training with organic chemistry and biochemistry as part of my university studies. I currently own my own company, Land Matters, LLC, and work acquiring
utility rights-of-way for electric and gas utility companies and municipalities in North Carolina and neighboring states.

Hayssam Hoballah

Hayssam will be graduating in May from UNCW with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance. He speaks fluently four languages (French, Arabic, Spanish and English) and has worked as a currency trader and financial news analyst in New York. His role within Cape Fear Biofuels is to analyze the strategic, financial and environmental risks that the organization has to overcome to become a successful and sustainable biofuels venture.

Deva Jensen

My name is Deva Jensen and I sit on the interim board for Cape Fear Biofuels. I volunteer with CFBF on behalf of Jensen Liebermann and Assoc, which strives to help grow new business. I have enjoyed very much volunteering with the board and would like to continue to grow this endeavor. I would like to tell you about myself. Most recent volunteer work was done with Centro Latino and L.A. Scores, a non-for-profit which works with bilingual inner-city elementary students. I volunteered daily as an after-school poetry coach and soccer coach with a goal to inspire the children to bring the sense of teamwork instilled by soccer into the poetry classroom. I taught English as a Second Language in Italy, CA, and MA. I am fluent in Spanish and Italian, with ESL certification as well as Mediation Certification. I am a graduate student in speech language pathology and work with children with developmental delays. Professional affiliations are with NSSLHA: National Student Speech Language & Hearing Association, TESOL: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Language, and Amnesty International. Why biofuels? I am passionate about educating others and bringing biofuels to Wilmington because it is one step closer towards non-dependence on foreign oil. Furthermore it is one step closer to working alongside local farmers to re-develop presently unused land, and this will support our economy.

Nash Hale

I am seeking a position on the Cape Fear BioFuels board of directors.

After high school in Wilmington I attended a small engineering school in Michigan name Kettering University (formerly know as General Motor Institute) where I obtained a degree in mechanical engineering with automotive chassis and body design concentration. During my college year I was involved in a co-op program and worked at a General Motors – Powertrain plant in Fredericksburg, VA. After finish school I have returned to Wilmington and current work at Jade Tank Lines, Inc. At Jade I am responsible dispatching and managing equipment related to the transportation of bulk liquid tankers. In this field I have become very familiar with the handling, transportation and storage of many chemical like methanol, caustic soda, and other petroleum products.

In the past couple of months I have been experiment, researching, and evaluation biodiesel as a solution to many of the countries energy problem. My very industrial experiences, especially in the trucking industry have opened my eyes to how influential fuel prices are on our economy. I feel strongly for the necessity to develop an energy economy that supports local farms, rather than Middle Eastern warlords.

As a member of the Cape Fear Biofuels board I feel that I can contribute a very corporate and industry point of view. I have a strong aptitude for leadership and many professional contacts that I look forward to leveraging for the benefit of the group. I look forward to the opportunity to build a strong biofuel economy in Wilmington.

Brent Manning

I'm an environmental consultant with Land Management Group who has worked with CFB for the past 18 months. I look forward to expanding group membership, community awareness, and use of biofuels in our region. I believe that biofuels play an integral role in solving our current energy crisis and hope to educate our community on the environmental benefits of using these products.

Trace Ramsey

I currently serve as Treasurer on the Interim Board of Cape Fear Biofuels. I have several years experience with biofuels, specifically in the realm of SVO/WVO. I am a graduate of the Biofuels class at Central Carolina Community College in Pittsboro. I currently serve on the executive committee (Secretary) of the Board of Directors at Tidal Creek Cooperative, a cooperatively owned natural foods store. I have experience with several non-profits, activist groups and related boards. I am open to any question regarding my background and qualifications by email
trace_ramsey@hotmail.com or by phone at 470-9611.

Roey Rosenblith

After researching biodiesel from 2002-2003, helping to convert a Volkswagen Rabbit to run on SVO, and visiting Piedmont Biofuels I decided to push my interest to the next level. In 2004, I took on a directed independent study under Biochemistry Professor Dr. Christopher Halkides (and with assistance from Brent Manning, Bill Burke, and Trace Ramsey) helped build an apple seed biodiesel reactor. In 2005, I co-founded Cape Fear Biofuels and helped organize many of its subsequent events, which included a book talk by Lyle Estill of Piedmont Biofuels, a homebrew biodiesel workshop with Maria Alovert at CFCC, and two fundraising events at the Soapbox. Now in 2006, I look forwarded to creating a fuel distribution network and member run refinery, as well as fully engage the community and our local representatives in education and advocacy for biofuels in our region. My past accomplishments include: publishing two local papers (The TONIC and Klutch Magazine), working as a research assistant for the nationally syndicated journalist Arianna Huffington, and holding an internship position as the special assistant to the director of the National Planning and Measurement and Analysis Staff in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) D.C. Headquarters. Presently I also sit on the board (as Director of Fulfillment and Partnerships) of the Full Belly Project, which is a local group that designs and disseminates appropriate technology to developing countries (www.fullbellyproject.org) In July, I will be graduating from UNCW with a Bachelors in Marine Science, and two minors in Environmental and Political Science. I also just purchased an 84’ Turbo Diesel 300D Mercedes Benz. Currently I serve as the Interim President of Cape Fear Biofuels. I can be contacted at roey@capefearbiofuels.com or 910-262-1107 if anyone has any questions.

Sarah Underwood

My name is Sarah Underwood and I am a junior at UNCW. I am involved with various organizations such as the Environmental Concerns Organization, Student Honors Advisory Council, Surfrider Foundation, Phi Sigma Pi, and Honors Mentors. Holding positions within many of these groups has taught me a lot about leadership and communication. Currently, I serve as the president of ECO and also on the interim board for Cape Fear Biofuels. I have a strong work ethic, listen well to new ideas, and believe in the ideals with which we have set out. I will also be serving as an intern for CFB this summer, and expect to work diligently on the projects assigned to me. I would be proud to represent members of CFB, and would appreciate the opportunity to be in a leadership position.

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting April 3, 2006

2006-04-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

I. Attendance: Trace, Roey, Brent, Sarah, Matt, John, Deva,

II. New Business

Tanker Truck- A 2,000 gallon tanker truck has been purchased. Board members are currently researching CDL training, insurance, fuel removal, etc.

Tank Trailer- Construction of the 500 gallon tank trailer is still underway. The e pump apparatus will be purchased from Harbor Freight prior to Earth Day. This will serve as our primary distribution source while the logistics of the tanker truck are resolved. Total cost of the tank trailer will be approximately $500.

B100 Tank Trail- CFB is currently discussing an invitation from Carolina Biodiesel (Durham, NC) to join the “B100 Tank Trail”. The goal of this project will be to form a network of B100 tanks that stretches from Wilmington to Asheville. Members of one co-op would have the opportunity to access B100 at different co-ops throughout the state. Stay tuned for more details!

Major Fundraiser- Corporate Canvas has agreed to host our fundraiser on June 15^th. Each board member has been assigned a task to help in organizing this event. Any general members who wish to donate items to the silent auction or want to volunteer their time please email info@capefearbiofuels.com

Tank Location- CFB is actively courting individuals and businesses who are interested in hosting the tank.

Earth Day- Everything is organized for the festival on April 22^nd. A new banner has been ordered and several UNCW art students are designing a new flyer/membership form. Please make plans to attend the event at Hugh McRae Park from 12-6!

Pre-Earth Day at UNCW- CFB will set up a booth in front of Randall Library on April 20^th as part of UNCW’s Earth Day event.

Panel Discussion at UNCW- CFB and UNCW’s ECO club will be hosting a panel discussion on campus the week of Earth Day (April 25^th). The event will feature 3 professors who will speak on different aspects of the petroleum industry and renewable energy alternatives. Stay tuned for more details!

Tanker!

2006-03-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

Big update! We purchased a fuel tanker today and are pretty excited about it. It may look a bit rough in the paint on the tank, but we will be able to fix that pretty easily.

This is a 1984 International, diesel fueled, with a 2,000 gallon maximum capacity. It needs very little work and it is all minimal stuff.

I think this is the big jumpstart we need to get fuel into the folks' tanks. Next step is insurance and finding a place for this truck to live.

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting March 27, 2006

2006-03-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

We have $2, 415 in Bank. Old Minutes approved.

Earth day:
Pre earth day on campus on April 20th, bands, concerts.
Actual Earth day on 22nd .We have a table, a booth, on a corner to put the tank. We chose the old banner with + prominent website. We may have a raffle. Collect emails to build a database.
We are going to sell T-shirts, buttons. We are going to fill up 2 vehicles, a trailer and 1 motorcycle.
How much fuel?
$200 for 55 gallons
Assembly tank, we need pumps and a meter, cheapest is 400$.

We have to order a pump as soon as possible.

Brochure
More pictures, too much text, make it flashier, no pricing, Wilmington uses 20% blend biofuel for its construction vehicle, trucks, trains, marine, what it is used for? Put picture, a collage. Not too many details about the org. add something about blended added value, encouraging. Looking to create a Capefear biofuel family, include mission statement on the front. Just our web link. We should insert a membership application.A poster?

Panel discussion

3 professors 25th, will last 1:30, from 7:00 to 8:30.
T shirts available, $10 for members, $15 for non members.

Fundraiser

June 8th is too busy, move to June 15th. Invite prominent Wilmingtonians and elected representatives, as well as candidates. Create a biofuels platform. Address the tax issue.

Fleet survey

Sarah and Matt are collaborating with ECO to get something together soon after Easter Break.

Board Minutes March 20th, 2005

2006-03-23T07:59:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting March 20, 2006

I. Attendence: Trace, Roey, Brent, Sarah, Matt, John

II. New Business

Oil collection- several local restaurants have agreed to support CFB by setting aside their used fryer oil! Depending upon weekly use, CFB will provide either 55 gallon drums or 5 gallon carboys. This method allows CFB to avoid dumpster pumping which contains water and lower quality solids.

Biodiesel Distribution- CFB has secured two 250 and one 500 gallon tank which will be used to store the B100. All we need is a meter and a nozzle assembly to complete the system! Please let us know if you have any leads on high quality used items.

Fleet Study- CFB will be assisted by the UNCW ECO club in the collection of information regarding fuel use in vehicle fleets in southeastern NC. Our target area extends from New Hanover to Cumberland County. Please feel free to forward any suggestions for possible participants to Sarah (sarahunderwood@capefearbiofuels.com)

T-shirts- CFB now has T-shirts for sale!!!! These have been printed on sweatshop free cotton T’s and sport a great catch phrase “Be somebody....B100” the CFB logo is also shown on the back. Shirts will be $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Stay tuned to the webpage for pictures and a paypal link for purchasing (Thanks much to Trace Ramsey and and Kristen Henry for all their hard work!)

UNCW Lectures- CFB is currently working with ECO to organize an evening of lectures on oil demand, the politics of oil, and the future of alternative fuels. This event will be held on campus in mid-April.

Event Announcement: Hot Buttered Rum Biodiesel Blue Grass Band at the Soapbox Tuesday March 21st

2006-03-16T10:48:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday March 21st the Hot Buttered Rum Acoustic Blue Grass String Band is going to be arriving in Wilmington to play at the
Soapbox Laundro Lounge
255 N. Front St. (click on image below to print out flyer)

Cape Fear Biofuels will be having a Membership Drive from 5-6:30PM in front of the Soapbox Laundro Lounge were we will also be fueling their SVO Tour Bus with 100 gallons of SVO. Feel free to stop by and help us out.

Doors for Hot Buttered Rum Open at 8:30PM

Check out these News Stories:
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/Music/Content?oid=oid%3A76074
http://www.jambase.com/headsup.asp?storyID=7937 http://www.jambase.com/headsup.asp?storyID=6229

So if you can DOWNLOAD THE FLYER, PRINT AND POST ALL OVER TOWN!!!

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting March 13, 2006

2006-03-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

Attendees- Brent, Bill, Roey, Trace, Sarah

II. Committee Reports
Education-Work in progress to secure space at UNCW for CFB/UNCW ECO club sponsored event during the week prior to Earth Day. The event will feature three presentations given by UNCW faculty on various aspects of global energy use.
Engineering-Large scale storage research is still being conducted in Brunswick County. Group will also be assisting in construction of the 500 gallon pump and housing facility at the end of this month.
Fundraising-Meeting with owner of Corporate Canvas downtown on Wednesday to secure space/time for fundraiser in early June. Hot Buttered Rum event at Soapbox scheduled for March 21st.

New Business

Southeastern Alliance for Community Change (SEACC)- This group has been working with CFB to establish 501c(3) status. This is a complicated task, including a lengthy application process and a $500 fee to the IRS. During this process SEACC will provide fiscal sponsorship to CFB allowing our group to submit grant proposals and to accept tax deductible donations.
Blended Value Model- SEACC has also worked with CFB to possibly reorganize our existing legal standing. In short, we would maintain the existing non-profit status for our cooperative but would also start an LLC which would be solely responsible for fuel purchase and distribution. The non-profit cooperative wing would then be free to concentrate on grant writing and community education. The LLC would work in close contact with the non-profit and offers a more attractive tax structure for local and regional investments.

Fleet Vehicle Study- Blue Ridge Biofuels (BRB) has been awarded a grant to study the fuel consumption of fleet vehicle in North Carolina. CFB has been asked to cover southeastern North Carolina and will begin data collection within the next several weeks. This project will be headed up by Sarah Underwood, a student at UNCW, and CFB’s first intern.

Fuel Purchase/Preparation- CFB has been working with local distributors to secure our first shipment of fuel prior to Earth Day. At first, CFB will be purchasing 500 gallon shipments and distributing fuel to our members at a very small profit margin. Once large scale storage has been secured CFB will then make larger purchases, and hopefully provide fuel at a lower cost. Our 500 gallon tank will be arriving in town before the end of March!

Everyone please come out to the Hot Buttered Rum show at the Soapbox next Tuesday, March 21st

Cape Fear Biofuels General Meeting March, 9th 2006

2006-03-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

I. Introductions

Reports:

Appleseed workshop- In the wake of the successful appleseed reactor workshop, several have been constructed by CFB members throughout New Hanover County. Future events will be scheduled to construct additional reactors, stay tuned to the discussion group and blog for information regarding dates and times.

Refinery- Construction is underway at the site of our member production facility. Initially, this area will be used as a repository for waste vegetable oil that will be collected from area restaurants. A meeting will be held on-site this Sunday March 12^th to discuss logistics and reactor design. Directions will be posted on the blog.

Fundraiser- Corporate Canvas has agreed to host our first fundraiser in late May! Larry Shirley (North Carolina Energy Office) has also agreed to be our keynote speaker. Event details are still preliminary, but we hope to have several items to auction and even a string quartet to provide live entertainment. Thanks to Deva for organizing this gala!

Agenda:

Hot Buttered Rum Event- CFB will host Hot Buttered Rum, a national bluegrass act, at the Soapbox on March 21^st. Hot Buttered Rum has traveled the US on a waste vegetable oil powered bus since 2003 and even dedicated their latest album “Well-Oiled Machine” to the vehicle! The band has agreed do a “meet and greet” event prior to the show from 5-6:30. CFB will be organizing all of the media attention for this event, including radio and TV coverage. CFB will also be providing the band with waste vegetable oil to maintain their earth-friendly tour. Check out www.hotbutteredrum.net for more details.

Board Elections- Over the next several weeks CFB will be accepting candidates who want to be on the board for a term of 12 months. Please email info@capefearbiofuels.com if you are interested. An election will be held via email and at our April general membership meeting. Up to 9 members can be elected.

Fleet Vehicle Study- CFB has been approached by Blue Ridge Biofuels (Asheville, NC) to take part in a survey of fleet vehicle fuel use. If the grant is awarded, CFB will be responsible for covering southeastern North Carolina.

Business Plan- Roey and Hayssam have been hard at work preparing CFB’s business plan. When completed, this document will be used to support funding proposals and guide the financial future of our organization. Thanks for all your hard work guys!

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting March 6, 2006

2006-03-12T08:33:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting March 6, 2006

I. Attendence: Trace, Roey, Brent

(No official business due to lack of quorum)

Board members that were on-hand took the opportunity to edit bylaws and create an official mission statement. An agenda for the general membership meeting was also compiled.

Mission Statement:

“Cape Fear Biofuels is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of a biofuels infrastructure and related technologies in the region while creating moral, economic, and social value through sustainable development”

Bylaws will be posted to the website after they are approved by the board.

Board Meeting Minutes

2006-02-27T20:55:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting - February 28, 2006

Attendance - Deva, Matt, Sarah, Hayssam, Trace, Brent, Roey, Bill, Anthony

Committee Reports

Education

Various articles were circulated regarding GM’s new flex fuel campaign. http://www.grist.org/news/muck/2006/02/24/griscom-little/index.html?source=daily

Discussions regarding fuel distribution at Earth Day were conducted. Matt will continue to negotiate with the parks department to hopefully gain support. The Earth Day booth will include new banner, tri-fold display, pamphlets, and home-brewed fuel. Banner will cost ~$130. Possible designs to be circulated around the board during the next two weeks.

Sarah’s internship project is being retooled to create a more manageable goal due to her advisor’s concerns.

Treasury/Fundraising

CFB now has over $2,000 in the bank! This includes all membership dues, fundraising, and contributions from Girl Mark’s workshop. A paypal account has also been set up and will soon allow potential members to pay online with credit/debit cards.

A major fundraiser is in the works for May 2006. This event will be geared towards a broad audience of students, politicians, local dignitaries, and the interested public. No definite date has been set, but the event will take place at Corporate Canvas on Front Street. CFB has already begun collecting items to be auctioned off, including a generous donation from painter James Davis.

An educational/media event is also being organized in conjunction with a national bluegrass act (Hot Buttered Rum String Band) which will take place on March 21^st at the Soapbox. HBRSB tours the US on an SVO bus and have agreed to do a “meet and greet” event prior to the show. All efforts will be made to bring the local media out to the event. CFB will also be providing the band with SVO to take them to their next show!

Engineering

Bill has continued his dialogue with a local chemical company about renting storage space for our first shipment of B100. He discussed the logistics and prices, including tank cleaning fees which could exceed $1,000. Jon is also researching other options for tanks in the Southport area. A cost benefit analysis will be done to decide if tank rental is in our best interest.

Anthony (Independent Biofuels) discussed plans for a $500 tank/trailer assembly. In short, a few days work could create a mobile 500 gallon tank which would also have a protective shelter. Several board members agreed to assist in the construction.

New Business

The GirlMark workshop was a huge success. A total of 22 people attended, with some traveling from Kansas and New York. Participants learned several “tricks of the trade” as well as basic knowledge about fuel production. GirlMark made the trip from California and we extend a big thank you to her!!

Thanks also to Cape Fear Community College for hosting the event.

Brent and Trace will be fine tuning the bylaws for review at the next general meeting. These bylaws serve as guide for the daily activities of the co-op and help with basic housekeeping tasks such as board elections, accounting, etc. They will be distributed following approval from the board.

The next general membership meeting will be March 9^th at Tidal Creeks, please mark your calendars.

WORKSHOP TOMMOROW at CFCC

2006-02-24T04:18:00.000-08:00

For those of you that are dying to make some homebrew biodiesel there should still be a few spots open at the workshop (at last notice there were about 10 seats still open). Looking forward to seeing everyone there:

Maria "Girl Mark" Alovert on how to make homebrew biodiesel on Sat-Sun Feb 25-26 at CFCC's North Campus (click here for directions) from 9:30-3:30PM both days in the Applied Technologies Building (first building on the left, park in the back) in the North Side of the Building Room NB 140.

To sign up for the class go to :

http://girlmark.com/tour2006.html
click on the Wilmington link to pay via pay-pal.

The class is $120 (with 20% of the proceeds going towards Cape Fear Biofuels). The last day of class offers the option of building your own Apple Seed Reactor (as long as you supply your own parts). Reactor kits can be purchased from B100Supply.com or you can find a parts list on:

http://www.biodieselcommunity.org/appleseedprocessor/ and purchase accessories at
Harbor Frieght.

After you pay make sure that you register by emailing:
classregistration@girlmark.com

2006-02-20T20:51:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting Feb 20, 2006

Present:

Trace

John

Roey

Deva

Matt

Hayssam

Newcomers:

Romain

Caoutar

Approval of past minutes pushed to next meeting b/c Brent is absent.

Committee Reports:

Fundraising report

Deva didn’t hear yet from Larry Shirley. Roey mentions a meeting w/ Randall Johnson from the NC Biotech center to get some funds.

Education report

Sara initiated contact w/ Piedmont to talk about college/coop partnerships.

Matt tries to get UNCW’s Wagoner Hall to use their WVO to make biodiesel. John proposes to do the same w/ CFCC.

Roey proposes to put together a panel discussion at UNCW

Engineering report

Bill is absent but Roey reports that he is speaking with individuals who have property where we can store biodiesel.

New Business

Girl Mark Class

Nothing new. Roey e-mailed Girl Mark and she said that 8 people were registered so far. Roey estimates that some more might have registered since then and communicates that a few “poor” students got in touch with him to come to the workshop but couldn’t afford it.

Fundraiser/Art Show

Things are moving slowly. We still have 2 months until Earth Day. The auction idea is being thrown on the platter. We may push back the fundraiser’s date. And instead have a fundraiser at Earth Day itself.

Earthday

We need $30,000 to get a shipment. Having a first shipment by Earth Day may be compromised b/c of the tight timeframe. However John offers a plan B, which would consist of driving up to Potters Oil and get a 500-gallon shipment ourselves to have it by Earth Day. Can we transport it? How much would it cost? Would we need a transporter’s license? John will look into that.

Cost of setting up a booth for Earth Day:

One 8-foot table and 2 chairs – complimentary

Banners - $100

A reactor (maybe) – cost to determine

Tanks

Ben’s father has two 500-gallon tanks and he may be able to bring them back after Spring Break.

Business Plan

The plan is not clear yet but a lot of connections are being made. The model so far will be linked to the blended value model and social entrepreneurship values put forward by Jet Emerson. A narrative, a vision, a mission statement, bylaws, a 3-year business projection are needed.

Presentations

Presentation to the Cape Fear Country Club with the goal of raising some funds or finding angels. Presentation to the Cape Fear River Watch. Matt has a list of organization that he will e-mail to Deva and Roey.

Home Brew Biodiesel Workshop Sat-Sun Feb. 25-26

2006-02-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels in Cooperation with Cape Fear Community College will be holding a workshop conducted by the infamous Maria "Girl Mark" Alovert on how to make homebrew biodiesel on Sat-Sun Feb 25-26 at CFCC's North Campus (click here for directions) from 9:30-3:30PM both days in the Applied Technologies Building (first building on the left, park in the back) in the North Side of the Building Room NB 140.

To sign up for the class go to :

http://girlmark.com/tour2006.html
click on the Wilmington link to pay via pay-pal.

- No Such Thing as Converting a Car To Biodiesel: Two Vegetable Oil Fuels Options Demystified
- The Basics of Biodiesel
- Some Websites and Forums for Learning More
- Things to Expect when Using Biodiesel
- Homebrew Biodiesel Process Overview
- Getting Started: How To Make 1-Liter Test Batches
- Titration, Titration Titration: Finding Free Fatty Acids In Oil
- Dewatering Oil and Testing for Water
- Biodiesel Chemistry for Non-Chemists
- Quality Tests
- Testing for Soap in Unwashed Biodiesel and Glycerol
- Clarity and Cloudiness- quality control and visual appearance
- Washing Biodiesel and Why and How We Do It
- Bubblewashing 101
- Troubleshooting “Wash Problems”
- Upsizing Batches, Making And Using Road Fuel
- Glycerol Purification and Use
- Acidulating and Purifying Glycerol
- Basics Of A Biodiesel Reactor System
- Carboy Methoxide Mixer System
- Weldless Processor Based on 55-Gallon Drum
- Future articles and topics to be covered by this zine
- Complete Reactor and System Plans:
Standpipe Wash Tank Plans
Simple Processor Based on an Electric Water Heater
Biodiesel Appleseed Reactor- the $150, No-weld Biodiesel Reactor
- Using the Appleseed Reactor
-Parts Diagram for the Biodiesel Appleseed Reactor
-Shopping list for Appleseed parts

General Member Meeting Minutes Feb. 9th, 2006

2006-02-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels General Member Meeting February 9, 2006

I. Introductions

II. Announcements

- Organization of bulk shipments of ATM-certified biodiesel has begun and we hope to have our first delivery coincide with Earth Day

- Home brew workshop with Girl Mark to be held Feb. 25-26^th

- Construction has begun at site of small scale production facility to be used by CFB members

- Fundraiser was success, generating $760

- HB 1296 continues to gain momentum in the NC House of Reps.

- Hayssam Hoballah (UNCW student) will be working on a business plan for CFB as part of his senior project

- New website up and running thanks to Graphic Moxie!

III. Discussion

The board educated the members on hand regarding the logistics of bringing fuel into Wilmington. Blending, profit margins, storage, and location were all discussed. A general consensus was reached regarding an approximate “price at the pump” of $3.12. As a result, the board will go forward with plans to provide B100 to our members.

CFB’s role in commercial enterprises was also outlined. CFB is registered as a non-profit (although we are not an official 501(c)3 at the present time), and must act responsibly under those guidelines. The co-op has spoken with many private corporations that are looking to expand into our area or are already up and running. Possible partnerships with these groups will be designed to support CFB’s mission of bringing sustainable fuel sources to the region.

IV. Committee Meetings

Education – The group will draw up and distribute (via the blog) a form letter to circulate among NC legislators regarding HB 1296. Once the bill enters the finance committee, efforts to increase support will be expanded. Development of materials for Earth Day will also begin.

Engineering – The group discussed the costs, permits, and logistics of fuel storage in Brunswick County. Preliminary talks with several storage facilities have been initiated and MSDS sheets have been provided.

Fundraising – The group discussed a new project tentatively scheduled for the end of March. Members will be contacting restaurants and art galleries to organize “A taste of Downtown” themed fundraiser. This event will involve a greater amount of organization, but has a great potential to raise funds for the organization.

Form Letter H1296

2006-02-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

Below is a letter I wrote to guide anyone interested in starting a barrage of public support for North Carolina General Assembly Proposed Bill H1296/s1150. This bill would exclude biodiesel (along with fuel alcohol and gasohol) from the State Fuels Excise Tax. This would reduce the price of biodiesel by 29 cents per gallon! This bill only provides a 10 year grace period, in which time hopefully biodiesel will get a foothold into the liquid fuels energy sector.

This form letter is only a guidline. Please feel free to make your own letter, improve upon this one, or just take advantage of the contact info for your representatives. BTW The General Assembly does not reconvene until May, but now is the time to start calling our elected officials.

--Matt

Local Public Officials Contact

House Members
Carolyn H. Justice (District 16) Office: 301C Legislative Office Building, Raleigh, NC 27603-5925 919-715-9664 Home: P. O. Box 296, Hampstead, NC 28443 910-270-4604
Daniel F. McComas (District 19) Office: 506 Legislative Office Building, Raleigh, NC 27603-5925 Phone: 919-733-5786 Home: P. O. Box 2274, Wilmington, NC 28402 Phone: 910-343-8372
Thomas E. Wright (District 18) Office: 528 Legislative Office Building, Raleigh, NC 27603-5925 Phone: 919-733-5754 Home: P. O. Box 1654, Wilmington, NC 28402 Phone: 877-364-6585
Senate Members
Julia Boseman (District 9) Office: 309 Legislative Office Building, Raleigh, NC 27603-5925 Phone: (919) 715-2525 Home: 1526 Portsmouth Place, Wilmington, NC 28405 Phone: (910) 681-1507
ZIP Code 28403-1517: Wright and Boseman
Go here to find your zip code representation: http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/GIS/Representation/Who_Represents_Me/Who_Represents_Me.html

Form Letter

[Address of representative]

Dear Representative/Senator,

[briefly give name, place of residence, vocation, credibility as a citizen, etc.]

As a concerned citizen in your district I want you to be aware of an important issue regarding the health and security of your constituents in North Carolina as well as the quality of life for people across the entire country. I write asking for your support of NC House Bill 1296/Senate Bill 1150, which is the Renewable Fuels Motor Fuels Tax Exemption, a bill that makes biodiesel, fuel alcohol, and gasohol exempt from the state motor and fuel excise tax. Support of this bill will likely stimulate production and use of renewable fuels in this state, thus strengthening the Nation’s energy independence.

Development of domestic, renewable energy sources will generate many positive benefits for Carolinians. By making the switch to fuels like biodiesel, fewer resources and lives will be lost in protecting oversea oil interests, a net positive increase in jobs for Americans will be created, oil prices will no longer be subject to international politics, local economies will prosper, and agricultural communities will benefit financially. Energy security, which has been on everyone’s mind since the Iraqi war and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, will be greatly increased if the U.S. sustainably produces its own oil. North Carolina, which has a diverse range of oil feedstocks like soy, corn, peanut, and animal byproducts, is in a great position to start supplying its own fuel demand.

Promoting the use of alternative fuels like biodiesel is also great for the environmental health and safety of North Carolina. Biodiesel is as biodegradable as sugar and less toxic than salt. Compared to petrodiesel, biodiesel has far fewer emissions, much safer handling characteristics, and biodegrades rapidly in marine and fresh water environments. Overall biofuels are a much better fuel source than petrodiesel. However, because biofuels have such a small share of the fuel market, biofuels at this point cannot compete cost effectively with petrodiesel. That is why it is important to endorse this bill.

Many other states already recognize the importance of encouraging the development of our liquid renewable fuels. The Washington State legislature has proposed a bill (H1645) that would make school districts exempt from the state’s 28 cent per gallon fuel tax if they use alternative fuels like biodiesel in their buses. In 2002, Minnesota became the first state to mandate that all diesel sold in the state contain 2 percent biodiesel (a mandate to be fulfilled by 2005). Illinois has recently passed sales tax incentives for biodiesel as well as grant money for the development of biodiesel infrastructure. North Carolina has already made progress in promoting renewable fuels, but so far it is not enough. North Carolina is in a great position to become the Southeast leader in renewable liquid fuels but needs the guidance and vision of our political leaders to carry this goal to fruition.

In North Carolina, there are growing numbers of biofuel producers, backyard biodiesel brewers, environmentally aware citizens, and farmers who all ardently support the growth of the renewable energy sector. By showing your voters that this issue is important to you and that energy use affects every North Carolinian, you have the potential to generate great political support from your constituents.

Now is a critical time to address energy use in North Carolina and across the nation. Whether we like it or not, change in our energy infrastructure is imminent, so by supporting this bill and taking a visionary stand on renewable energy issues you can help North Carolina prepare for a brighter future.

Please show me that you know what is right for our state. Help improve North Carolina’s quality of life by supporting House Bill 1296/Senate Bill 1150. Please consider cosponsoring this bill or at the very least endorse it with your vote.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[your name]

Board Meeting Minutes Feb. 6th 2006

2006-02-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

Cape Fear Biofuels Board Meeting February 6, 2006

In Attendance (Roey, Brent, Trace, Matt, Bill, Sarah, Deva, Ray)

A. Minutes approved from 1/30/06 meeting

Committee Reports

Education – Letter to senators and members of House of Representatives regarding support of HB 1296. Earth Day booth reserved

Engineering – Document regarding handling and transport of biodiesel circulated. Lease and/or rental of fuel storage space in Brunswick County discussed. Plan formulated to design a mobile 500 gallon tank. Tank would allow for safe transport from storage facility to pump location.

Fundraising – Event at Soapbox considered a success, money transferred to Trace for deposit.
Next event(s) to focus on different demographic with earlier time slot. Possibilities include art gallery event, dinner/wine tasting at local restaurant (one friendly to local oil collection). Ray and Jon offered their vehicles for mobile CFB advertising (82 Rabbit, 84 Suburban).
Ray suggested possible locations for setting up refreshment stands to benefit CFB. Tidal Creek Co-op, UNCW, and the Downtown Farmer’s Market were agreed upon as possible locations. Research needed to ascertain legalities of these types of events.

Public Relations – Initial contact with Everfresh soy plant. Downtown Wilmington group to be approached for support.

New Business

Girl Mark Event – Officials at CFCC need direct contact with Girl Mark and discussion with other community colleges to allow event. CFCC will require space for two people as payment for hosting the event. Roey and Jon to facilitate appropriate discussions between Girl Mark and CFCC.

Membership Fee – Group agreed to single tier membership fee of $50 (no student rate)
Bulk Fuel Purchase – Update on fuel purchase logistics and pricing. Earth Day set as a goal for first delivery of fuel. Bill to research storage rental, Trace to research permits, Hayssan to work on business plan for use in applying for short-term loan.

Biodiesel Business Partnerships – Meeting with Go Green Fuels discussed. Group agreed to continue with discussions regarding support of waste heating oil facility in Brunswick County.

Summer Intern – Sarah approached several board members regarding possible projects for a summer internship. Items suggested include guiding 501(c)3 process, conducting public education events, and general management of co-op. Brent to be supervisor.

Business Plan – Hayssam and Roey met w/ officials of Cameron Business School to discuss the financial goals of the co-op. It was recommended that a thorough risk assessment be conducted as part of the business plan. Discussions with Small Business group at UNCW to aid in development of this plan.

Meeting Thursday 6PM at Tidal Creek

2006-02-07T19:39:00.000-08:00

The third general meeting of the Cape Fear Biofuels Cooperative will be taking place at Tidal Creek (http://www.tidalcreek.coop/) (Directions) at 6PM this Thursday, Feb 9th. We have many exciting things to discuss:

-The Board has set a goal to have our first bulk shipment of Biodiesel available to our members by Earthday April 22nd, 2006. We have met with a biodiesel distributor that is offering us price that was better than we anticipated, and we will be discussing different pricing options and blends at the meeting.
-The Infamous Maria "Girl Mark" Alovert is going to be holding a workshop in Wilmington on Feb 25-26 on how to make homebrew biodiesel. The class is $120 but 20% of that will be donated to Cape Fear Biofuels. To sign up for the class go to here: http://girlmark.com/tour2006.html .
-Construction has started on Neal Taylor's property where our Coop Refinery is going to be located.
-We made $760 at the fundraiser at the Soapbox (thanks everyone that came) and are looking to have a second fundraiser in late March.
-There is a house bill in the NC General Assembly that has been co-sponsored by Representative Joe Hackney to create a 10 year tax holiday on all biofuels sold in North Carolina which would bring us closer to price parity with petro-diesel.
-We have an awesome new website put together by Brian Brueck of Graphic Moxie (www.graphicmoxie.com) and Trace Ramsey (our Treasurer). Please take a look. (www.capefearbiofuels.com )

If anything has anything that they would like to discuss at the meeting please let me know and I'll put it on the agenda.

Roey Rosenblith
(Interim President)

Graphic Moxie Designs Awesome Logos!!!

2006-02-02T00:44:00.000-08:00

The following logos were put together by Brian Brueck of Graphic Moxie www.graphicmoxie.com/ . Thanks Brian for your fantastic work!!!

Board Meeting Minutes. Jan. 30, 2006

2006-01-30T21:19:00.000-08:00

I. In Attendance (Roey, Brent, Trace, Matt, Bill, Anthony)

II. Absent (Sarah, Ray, Deva)

A. Old Business/Committee reports

Matt (Education) reported that they would be working on media for distribution around community. Earth Day booth reserved for festival at Hugh McRae Park in April.

Deva (Public Relations), to provide outreach to “Downtown Wilmington” group and soy production plant in Whitevile.

Bill (Technology) reported on his research on the logistics of tank construction and small production equipment. Further work to be done in conjunction with airport property development.

Brent (Fundraising) reported that everything was organized for the fundraiser on Feb. 2^nd.

Jon (Finance) reported that his wife could possibly provide bookkeeping services. UNCW finance student also to be involved. Meeting to be scheduled with Cameron Business School professors to chart a financial course for CFB.

Discussions regarding possible community partnerships (Bob King VW, Go Gas) were proposed as additional opportunities for fundraising.

B. New Business

Fuel Purchase. Options for storage tanks and pump assemblies were discussed. Various options ranging from tanker trucks to custom built 500 gallon tanks were discussed. $20,000 was quoted as the goal to make delivery/distribution a reality in Cape Fear region.

Bill, Anthony, Jon assigned to do research on tank/distribution logistics.

CFCC Girl Mark event.. Jon updated the group on the status of the workshop. Interest within CFCC was strong, and we were told to find a faculty sponsor to “adopt” the workshop. Ken, a diesel mechanic/instructor, was suggested.

SEACC Meeting. Brent, Trace, and Roey to meet with SEACC to discuss fiscal sponsorship, 501c3 process, and general management techniques for non-profits. Meeting to be scheduled by Roey.

Group Meeting @Tidal Creeks. General agenda for February 9^th meeting at Tidal Creeks. Results of fundraiser, Girl Mark event, Earth Day, status of fuel delivery to be discussed.

Membership fees. Group discussed possibility of student rate becoming available for $20. No agreement was reached. Group did agree to deduct cover charge from fundraiser from $50 membership fee. Standard membership forms to be handed out at the door of event.

Downtown Location. Anthony (IB) reported that the zoning board had denied their request to open an automotive/mechanic style business in the space. IB withdraws from leasing agreement. It was suggested that the building be passed to Cape Fear Green Building Alliance. CFB/IB will restart efforts to find garage and office space in New Hanover County. Properties on Castle and Raleigh St. suggested as possible alternatives.

Cape Fear Biofuels Fundraiser

2006-01-30T07:50:00.000-08:00

CapeFearBioBlog

Vote for Ben and Stacia!!!

Mission Accomplished!

www.savebiodiesel.org

Moving out!

****COLD FLOW ADVISORY****

Alternative Fuel Car Show - November 15th

Bookreading with Lyle Estill, September 17th

1978 240D for sale in Wilmington

General Meeting Minutes July 10, 2008

Book Review - Deep Economy by Bill McKibben

CFB Movie Night - June 18th Jengo's Playhouse

Support the new Clean Cars Bill!

Reactor Construction Begins......

Earth Day 2008

Winnabow Update

Environmental Film Fest @ UNCW April 11-12th

Homebrew Competition

Book Review: In Defense of Food

3 Day Biodiesel Workshop April 4-6, 2008

Board Member elections in March

Homebrewed Beer Fundraiser

Auto makers finally get it.........

BP invests in Canadian tar sands

Drought Impacts in 2007

BEST BOOK THIS CENTURY!

Progress at Co-op Reactor Site

Farm Progress

Permaculture Class Schedule

Oil Prices $85/barrel -- Highest Ever!

Progress at Winnabow

New fuel trailer

A Win in Winnabow

Record High Oil Prices

Jatropha article in WSJ

Biodiesel legislation roundup

Co-op Reactor Location

Interesting articles......

Big Auto launches anti-CAFE standard campaign

VW Golf Diesel for Sale in Wilmington

New Biodiesel Bill Introduced!

Pimp my ride does biodiesel?!

Le'ad Memorial Fund

Biofuels/Green Building Bill Introduced!

shameless propaganda.........

Trip to Miracle Acres

Trailer Lock at 17th street

New fueling location!!!!!

Who killed the electric car?

Coop Reactor Workers

Biofuels Service Station in Oregon

Convenient Fueling

Back from the trip. (finally)

Biodiesel on NPR

around the world on grease

Wild wasps and busted hoses

Oil Price Outlook

Goodbye Trailer, Hello Tanker; Good bye Tanker, Hello Trailer.

Painted Tanker

Fuel for Rockers

Reactor Vessel

General Meeting on Thursday at 6PM

Gas Prices

$5,000 Raised at Fundraiser

Board Meeting Minutes 06/29/06

Currents article - A bit late

Gourmet biodiesel

Biofuels on the Radio

Oh, tanker...

Board Meeting Minutes 06/15/06

Sparkplug Grant

General meeting reminder

The B100 Tank Trail

Busy with the fundraiser

Biofuels Legislation

New Board for Cape Fear Biofuels

Tanker Progress

Cape Fear Biofuels Tank Trailer and Star News Article

General Meeting Minutes April 13, 2006

Board Meeting Minutes April 10th, 2006

COLD FLOW ADVISORY