Southeast Engine talks about solar jam
By Amy Nordrum, Staff Writer
April 25, 2007 | 3:40 a.m.
An interview with Leo DeLuca, an AmeriCorps*VISTA with ReUse Industries and the drummer for Southeast Engine, about Southeast Engine's involvement in the upcoming Earth Week solar jam.
Q. How did Southeast Engine get involved with the solar jam event?
A. I am working as an AmeriCorps*VISTA with ReUse Industries. ReUse is a community-based, non-profit organization focused on channeling reusable items out of the waste stream. Our mission is to protect the environment by reducing waste, boost the local economy by creating jobs, and provide an affordable shopping option for area residents.
The Earth Day Solar Jam will involve environmentally minded area non-profits and ReUse was a natural fit for the event. In lieu of this, I was corresponding with Sonia Marcus (OU's Sustainability Coordinator) about the dynamics our participation. Somehow it worked out that I would book the bands for The Solar Jam as well. I've had a great experience working with Sonia and the rest of the Earth Day Planning Committee and I'm glad I was able to help.
Q. Why did the band decide playing in The Solar Jam was a good idea?
A. Southeast Engine feels it's important to use our music as avenue by which to promote virtuous endeavors. Earth Day is a wonderful opportunity for the band to help spread awareness of environmental issues.
Many people think that Earth Day Celebrations are reserved for hippies (whatever that means). We in Southeast Engine are concerned about the earth's well-being but do not consider ourselves to be hippies. I think we'd really like people to understand that protecting the earth is everyone's responsibility, regardless of age, class, political alliance, social clique, scene, etc. It is essential.
Q. Has Southeast Engine done anything similar to The Solar Jam in the past?
A. We've played many benefits aimed at spreading awareness of social, environmental issues, etc. I guess that is somewhat similar. We've never played on a solar stage, however, so that will be neat.
Q. How do you think students will react to the concert?
A. I think (hope) the students and community members will really enjoy the concert. It's definitely a change of pace to have a show outside and during the middle of the day. The show will be from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 21 outside and behind OU's Baker Center.
Q. What do you hope students take away from Earth Week and the solar jam event?
A. I hope that students take away an understanding of how important it is to protect the planet and find different ways to get involved. I also hope the music proves to be inspiring and therapeutic for them.
Q. What are your thoughts on climate change (this year's Earth Day theme) and its relevance to our generation?
A. We've done a pretty good job of screwing up the natural order of things. Increases in CO2 levels, ozone depletion, animal agriculture, and deforestation all affect climate change.
Climate change will affect humans and the earth adversely. Here goes:
There is more to this, but it is too big for this interview. In short, climate change is serious.
Q. Do you have any other connections to Earth Week other than The Solar Jam? (Ex. Did you play a role in organizing any of the other events, or is Southeast Engine holding any other concerts as part of Earth Week, etc.)
A. Yes. I'm an AmeriCorps*VISTA with ReUse Industries. ReUse will have a booth and information available at Earth Day.
Q. Why are you an Americorps*VISTA with ReUse Industries, and why do you get involved with things like Earth Week?
A. Getting involved with organizations like ReUse and events like Earth Week stems from my personal philosophies and beliefs. It's great to be a part of both.