The Solar Homestead is Appalachian State University's entry in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011. Inspired by the pioneer spirit of the early settlers in the mountain region of North Carolina, we have designed a self-sustaining zero energy home.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Opinions Surround the National Mall Usage


The decathlete's struggle to return the Solar Decathlon to the National Mall continues. Although the support to return the competition to the Mall is constantly increasing among teams, universities, and senators; the National Park Service is still opposed. 
An editorial published in the Washington Post argued for the removal of the competition stating that the Mall has undergone "neglect and overuse". The Post opinion article pointed out physical damages that the competition had done to the Mall in previous years and the importance of restoring the space. 
Thankfully, the public responded with Letters to the Editor concerning the original editorial. 
"Spotty grass is a sign of engagement, not shame," said Ryan Montgomery of Washington in his Letter to the Editor. Another letter highlighted our president's words concerning national progress.
"The president could not have been clearer when he said, 'The first step in winning the future is encouraging American innovation.' There is no finer example of this than the Solar Decathlon," said Alan Abrams of Washington in his letter. In these letters, the value of community involvement, creativity, and innovation are restored. 
It's YOUR National Mall, would you rather have a manicured lawn or a landmark of American involvement? 




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