Will Your Town/City Exist In 2030?
Do you fret about the future of your town? Do you wake up in the middle of the night wondering if you might soon be living in a ghost town of yore, tumbleweeds rolling through your athletic stadiums, your streets corroded into asphalt chunks, your nail salons and KFC's completely stripped of equipment? Lo, be ye not afraid of zombies. They are the least of your worries. It is the tumultuous forces of finance, environment, population, economics and energy that will bounce and jostle our fair burgs, sifting the sustainable wheat from the unsustainable chaff. How will your town fare? Read moreTake the quiz!
(photo: Mike LoCascio, wikicommons)
- 1.
(photo: Bobjgalindo, Wikicommons)Since I live in California, the first predictive factor I'll bring up is the big kahuna: water. Can your town come up with at least 35 gallons of water/person/day sustainably over the next decade? Is it already have trouble doing so? (With stringent conservation, greywater systems and rain catchment, people can live pretty well on this amount.)
- A.
Yes, we have plenty of the source of life. We luxuriate in it. We have lawns, and we don't feel the slightest bit guilty about a ten minute shower.
- B.
No, we face droughts and/or aquifer/groundwater depletion. It's a drag.
Correct Answer
A. Yes, we have plenty of the source of life. We luxuriate in it. We have lawns, and we don't feel the slightest bit guilty about a ten minute shower.Explanation
The explanation for the given answer is that the town mentioned in the question has an abundant supply of water. The statement mentions that they have lawns and do not feel guilty about taking long showers, indicating that water scarcity is not an issue in their area. This suggests that the town is able to sustainably provide at least 35 gallons of water per person per day, as mentioned in the question.Rate this question:
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- 2.
(photo: Leaflet, Wikicommons) Now we look at energy. Some states are already on the path to energy resilience and produce a substantial amount of the electricity that they consume from renewables + hydroelectricity. How is your state doing? Find it below.90 - 100% Amazing! Washington, Montana and Oregon60-70% Excellent! Maine, South Dakota50 - 60% Really very good. North Dakota and Idaho30 - 40% Getting there! New Hampshire, Vermont, Iowa, Wyoming20 - 30% On the Path. Alaska, California, Kansas, New York, Oklahoma0 - 20% Much work to do. All the rest of the states.
- A.
My state is above 20% renewables plus hydro. Or: my state might not be there, but my town has a municipal utility that gets over 20% of its electricity from renewables + hydro and that should give us some sustainability cred.
- B.
My state's been putting in renewables. I can't believe we're not up to 20% yet. (NV, MN, CO, NE, HI, NM, AZ, TX)
- C.
My state doesn't believe in renewables.
- D.
My state has no sun or wind.
- E.
Seriously, not every state can be as glorious as Idaho.
Correct Answer
A. My state is above 20% renewables plus hydro. Or: my state might not be there, but my town has a municipal utility that gets over 20% of its electricity from renewables + hydro and that should give us some sustainability cred.Explanation
The answer states that the person's state is above 20% renewables plus hydro, indicating that their state produces a significant amount of electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Alternatively, even if their state is not above 20%, the person mentions that their town has a municipal utility that gets over 20% of its electricity from renewables + hydro, which still contributes to sustainability efforts. This response shows awareness and pride in their state or town's commitment to renewable energy.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Does your town have fewer than 30 days a year of high heat (over 105 degrees) and fewer than ten days a year of extreme heat (over 110 degrees)?
- A.
Yes (most of the country)
- B.
No, you can fry an egg on our streets in the summer. (I live in a place as hot as Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Palm Springs)
Correct Answer
A. Yes (most of the country)Explanation
The correct answer is "Yes (most of the country)" because the question asks if the town has fewer than 30 days a year of high heat (over 105 degrees) and fewer than ten days a year of extreme heat (over 110 degrees). The statement "Yes (most of the country)" implies that most towns in the country do not experience high heat or extreme heat for more than the specified number of days, suggesting that the town in question also falls into this category.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Does your town have any of its energy sources brought in by truck, rail, or ship? (Besides gasoline, let's say.)
- A.
Yes, we get wood or propane delivered, or our power plant gets coal by train, or we live on an island and we get more than half our energy sources delivered by ship.
- B.
No, we get electrons via wires, natural gas via pipes, and if we use wood, we get it from real close by.
Correct Answer
B. No, we get electrons via wires, natural gas via pipes, and if we use wood, we get it from real close by.Explanation
The correct answer is "No, we get electrons via wires, natural gas via pipes, and if we use wood, we get it from real close by." This answer states that the town does not rely on truck, rail, or ship to bring in energy sources like wood, propane, or coal. Instead, they obtain electrons through wires, natural gas through pipes, and locally sourced wood. This suggests that the town has a reliable and efficient system for obtaining its energy sources without the need for external transportation methods.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What is the winter heating situation like for your town?
- A.
We don't really have winter, or we have serious winter but we've insulated and sealed our homes insanely well, use air-sourced or ground-sourced heat pumps, passive solar, or high-efficiency wood stoves, so our heating bills are low.
- B.
We have bitter cold and/or our housing stock is poorly insulated. Our winter propane/natural gas/fuel oil/electricity bills run more than $150/month. (Sometimes way more.)
Correct Answer
A. We don't really have winter, or we have serious winter but we've insulated and sealed our homes insanely well, use air-sourced or ground-sourced heat pumps, passive solar, or high-efficiency wood stoves, so our heating bills are low.Explanation
The explanation for the given answer is that the town either does not experience winter or has a severe winter, but the residents have taken measures to insulate and seal their homes effectively. They also utilize energy-efficient heating methods such as air-sourced or ground-sourced heat pumps, passive solar, or high-efficiency wood stoves. As a result, their heating bills are low.Rate this question:
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- 6.
(photo: AlexiusHoratius, Wikicommons)On to economics. Did your town exist a hundred years ago? (Does it have an historic reason for existence?)
- A.
Yep, we were here.
- B.
No, we sprang up post-WWII and our development patterns sure show it.
Correct Answer
A. Yep, we were here.Explanation
The correct answer is "Yep, we were here." This answer suggests that the town existed a hundred years ago and has a historic reason for its existence. It implies that the town has a long-standing history and was not just established after World War II like the other option suggests.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Now, let's look at how energy intensive your state's overall way of life is, another predictor of long-term viability. Let's examine total energy use per person from all sources (oil, gas, coal, renewables, et al) for all uses (residential, commerce, industry, transportation) expressed in the equivalent kilowatt hours/person/day. Find your state below. (2012 EIA data)
- A.
Our way of life is reasonable in terms of energy (under 200 kwh/person/day.) (CT, MA, NH, RI, VT, NY, FL, MD, AZ, NV, CA, HI) Or it's just a little above that (200--230 kwh/person/day), so cut us some slack. (ME, NJ, PA, MI, DC, GA, NC, VA, CO, UT, OR)
- B.
We consume double the energy of most Europeans, but we'll always have unlimited cheap energy, won't we? (230-300 kwh/person/day) (IL, OH, WI, MN, MO, DE, TN, AR, ID, NM)
- C.
We are the Sumo wrestlers of per capita world energy consumption. We slurp up huge amounts. (300-400 kwh/person/day) (IN, IA, KS, NE, SD, WV, AL, KY, MS, OK, TX, MT)
- D.
We are the King Kongs of energy consumption. Our use is off-the-charts insane, although our mining, drilling and refining industries have a lot to do with it. (650-760 kwh/person/day) (ND, LA, WY, AK)
Correct Answer
A. Our way of life is reasonable in terms of energy (under 200 kwh/person/day.) (CT, MA, NH, RI, VT, NY, FL, MD, AZ, NV, CA, HI) Or it's just a little above that (200--230 kwh/person/day), so cut us some slack. (ME, NJ, PA, MI, DC, GA, NC, VA, CO, UT, OR)Explanation
The answer states that the way of life in the listed states is reasonable in terms of energy consumption, with each person using under 200 kilowatt hours per day. It also mentions that some states use slightly more energy, between 200 and 230 kilowatt hours per day, but asks for understanding in this case. The explanation does not include "The correct answer is" statement.Rate this question:
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- 8.
(photo: Joe Mabel, Wikicommons)Is your town traditionally a fishing town, a farming town (and still surrounded by farms), a regional market/trade town or a port of any kind?
- A.
Yes, fishing, farming, regional commerce or trade via shipping has been in our past and will likely be in our future.
- B.
No, none of these are economic contributors for us.
Correct Answer
A. Yes, fishing, farming, regional commerce or trade via shipping has been in our past and will likely be in our future.Explanation
The answer suggests that the town has a history of being involved in fishing, farming, regional commerce, or trade via shipping. It also implies that these economic activities are expected to continue in the future.Rate this question:
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- 9.
(photo: Walter Siegmund, Wikicommons) Does more than 20% of your state's economy (tax revenue and/or jobs) rely on extracting,shipping, processing or refining coal, oil or natural gas?
- A.
Yes, I live in Alaska, Wyoming, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, North Dakota, or West Virginia
- B.
No, my state's economy is diverse and will not be devastated by reduced fossil fuel use.
Correct Answer
B. No, my state's economy is diverse and will not be devastated by reduced fossil fuel use.Explanation
The answer is "No, my state's economy is diverse and will not be devastated by reduced fossil fuel use." This answer suggests that the state in question has a diverse economy that is not heavily reliant on the extraction, shipping, processing, or refining of coal, oil, or natural gas. Therefore, if there were to be a reduction in fossil fuel use, it would not have a devastating impact on the state's economy.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Roads are expensive to maintain, especially when it's likely in the future states and localities will have to shoulder 100% of the burden of their roads themselves. How many lane-miles of road per person does your state have?
- A.
Less than 200 feet/capita. We can afford the roads we have as long as we don't build many more. We'll spend less than 10% of our state tax revenue maintaining them. (CT, MA, RI, NJ, NY, DE, DC, FL, MD, CA, HI, NH, PA, IL, IN, MI, OH, GA, NC, SC, VA, TN, LA, TX, AZ, CO, NV, UT, OR, WA)
- B.
200-300 feet/capita. We will probably turn some roads back to gravel or toll them. (ME, VT, WI, MN, MO, WV, AL, MS, AK)
- C.
300-500 feet/ capita. It's lucky we like gravel roads because we'll have a lot of them. (IA, AR, OK, ID, NM)
- D.
500-1300 feet/capita. We are in for a world of hurt road-wise. (KS, NE, SD, ND, MT, WY)
Correct Answer
A. Less than 200 feet/capita. We can afford the roads we have as long as we don't build many more. We'll spend less than 10% of our state tax revenue maintaining them. (CT, MA, RI, NJ, NY, DE, DC, FL, MD, CA, HI, NH, PA, IL, IN, MI, OH, GA, NC, SC, VA, TN, LA, TX, AZ, CO, NV, UT, OR, WA)Explanation
The answer states that states with less than 200 feet/capita of road per person can afford the roads they have, as long as they don't build many more. It also mentions that they will spend less than 10% of their state tax revenue on maintaining these roads. The list of states included in this category suggests that these states have a relatively low population density or a well-managed road infrastructure that requires less maintenance.Rate this question:
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- 11.
(photo: Carole J Buckwalter, Wikicommons) Does more than twenty percent of your town's economy rely on tourism, medical tourism, skiing, snowbirds, gambling, producing the latest expensive electronic toy, or the sale of knickknacks, jewelry or home decor (all of which are luxuries that may well disappear or at least become scarce)? Or, if your town is a college town, is the college already struggling financially?
- A.
Yes. Gosh, next you'll say we can't have an economy built on fast food either.
- B.
No, but we're counting on one of the above to revive our currently struggling economy. (Come gamble at our new casino!)
- C.
No, we get our garden gnomes and beanie babies from abandoned storage lockers and play on-line poker.
- D.
No, our economy doesn't depend on fluctuating consumption of luxury items, luxury experiences or on a college that is about to go under.
Correct Answer
D. No, our economy doesn't depend on fluctuating consumption of luxury items, luxury experiences or on a college that is about to go under.Explanation
The correct answer states that the economy does not rely on luxury items, luxury experiences, or a struggling college. This means that the town's economy is not heavily dependent on industries that are prone to fluctuations or potential instability. Instead, the economy is likely based on more stable and reliable sectors, which can contribute to its overall sustainability and resilience.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Amazing stat 1--In the US, for people between the ages of 20 and 65, alcohol is responsible for one death in ten. (Via car crashes, violence, breast cancer, liver disease, heart disease. 70% of those deaths happen to men.)Amazing stat 2--Americans make up 5% of the world's population and consume 75% of the world's pharmaceuticals.Amazing stat 3--30% of American women take tranquilizers.Amazing stat 4--having fellow citizens who are by and large clear-headed, healthy, responsible, and used to pulling their weight and contributing to the greater good (either via their family or their community) is going to the make the probability of your town surviving much higher.Do you live in one of these "top" states? (Check all that apply.)
- A.
Top meth lab states--MO, TN, IN, MI, IL, OH, NC, KY
- B.
Top number of incarcerated persons/capita--LA, MS, OK, AL, TX, AZ, FL, AR, MO
- C.
States where more than 31% of citizens are obese--LA, MS, AL, WV, OK, IA, SC, TN, KY, IN, ND, MI, DE
- D.
Top death-by-alcohol states--NM, AK, MT, WY, AZ, OK, NV, MI, DC, CO, WV
- E.
States where more than 17% of citizens live in poverty--MI, MS, AZ, NM, AR, GA, DC, TX, KY, NC
- F.
States where more than 13% of children are diagnosed with ADHD--AL, AR, DE, IN, IA, KY, LA, NC, OH, RI, SC, TN
- G.
States with more than 96 opiod prescriptions per year for every 100 people--LA, MS, AL, AR, OK, SC, NC, TN, KY, WV, OH, IN, MI
- H.
By some miracle my state is not listed in any of the options above. Our men are not drinking themselves to death, our women are not popping chill pills, our kids don't need to take amphetamines to sit still, and our prisons aren't major state employers.
Correct Answer
H. By some miracle my state is not listed in any of the options above. Our men are not drinking themselves to death, our women are not popping chill pills, our kids don't need to take amphetamines to sit still, and our prisons aren't major state employers. -
- 13.
Does your town have any of the following symptoms of lack of social cohesion?--You personally know someone in your town who has been mugged.--Women feel uncomfortable walking alone at 9pm.--People with matted hair and missing teeth wander the streets shouting obscenities.--On Sunday mornings parents have to clear playgrounds of needles and/or beer bottles before their children can play.--You have seen emaciated meth addicts in your town.--Prostitutes hang out on corners you routinely pass by.--You know of someone (first or secondhand) in your town who has died of a heroin overdose.--Your town has issues with gangs, vandalism or graffiti--Your town has higher rates of domestic violence or child abuse than the national average.
- A.
None of the above. My town is squeaky clean.
- B.
Ok, I've got to check off one or two of these, but it was a one-time thing and no indication of a real problem.
- C.
Welcome to America. Everyone has these problems, so it's not surprising we do, too.
- D.
Our town didn't used to have these problems, and now it does. It's a sad business indeed.
Correct Answer
A. None of the above. My town is squeaky clean.Explanation
The correct answer indicates that the town does not have any of the symptoms of lack of social cohesion mentioned in the question. This suggests that the town does not have issues such as muggings, women feeling uncomfortable walking alone at night, presence of drug addicts or prostitutes, drug overdoses, gang problems, domestic violence, or child abuse. The answer implies that the town is relatively safe and free from these social issues.Rate this question:
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- 14.
If your town is unable to sustainably provide water to its population right now, is it within 20 miles of a large body of salt water and wealthy enough to desalinate?
- A.
Yes, it will be expensive but we could do it. (Also check this box if question is irrelevant because your town has enough water, you lucky fools.)
- B.
No, but why can't we desalinate and then pump water 200 miles up hill?
- C.
No. Depopulation is in our future.
- D.
I want to divert the entire Columbia or Mississippi River to flow to my town. Start digging now.
Correct Answer
A. Yes, it will be expensive but we could do it. (Also check this box if question is irrelevant because your town has enough water, you lucky fools.)Explanation
The correct answer suggests that if a town is unable to sustainably provide water to its population, but is located within 20 miles of a large body of salt water and is wealthy enough to desalinate, then it is possible to address the water scarcity issue by desalinating the salt water. Although this solution would be expensive, it is feasible. The statement also humorously acknowledges that the question may be irrelevant for towns that already have enough water supply.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Is it possible to live in your town year around without air conditioning?
- A.
Either we don't have an air conditioner, or living without one would be possible with shade trees, ceiling fans, whole house fans, etc.
- B.
No freaking way.
Correct Answer
A. Either we don't have an air conditioner, or living without one would be possible with shade trees, ceiling fans, whole house fans, etc.Explanation
The correct answer suggests that it is possible to live in the town year-round without air conditioning. This is supported by the options provided, such as shade trees, ceiling fans, and whole house fans, which can help to cool down the living environment without the need for an air conditioner.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Does your town have any of these signs/generators of social cohesion?--field sports leagues for adults as well as youth?--a community newspaper of website with local news that is widely read?--community murals/artwork by local residents?--a public library?--a community college within town limits?--community bulletin boards?--auctions, pancake breakfasts or other fundraisers for non-profits?--performances by local musicians?--weekly farmer's markets or annual public festivals?--If you live in a very small town, do you at least have Fourth of July parades with kids riding decorated bikes?
- A.
We've got at least three of these.
- B.
Only one or two. We could do better.
- C.
None of the above. I live in a real hell-hole.
Correct Answer
A. We've got at least three of these.Explanation
The answer suggests that the town has at least three signs/generators of social cohesion mentioned in the question. Although the specific signs/generators are not mentioned, it implies that the town has a good level of community engagement and activities that promote social cohesion.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Another sign/generator of social cohesion: Do any largely volunteer organizations exist in your town that provide the following:--food pantries/soup kitchens--crisis help lines/crisis counseling--services to youth--services to elderly--community gardens/farms--home building/home repair(Note: they can have some professional staff, but most of the labor is provided by volunteers. It's the volunteering that creates the social cohesion.)
- A.
Yes, people do this sort of thing in my town.
- B.
No, there is little or no sense of community here in this way.
Correct Answer
A. Yes, people do this sort of thing in my town.Explanation
The answer "Yes, people do this sort of thing in my town" suggests that there are largely volunteer organizations in the town that provide various services such as food pantries, crisis help lines, services to youth and elderly, community gardens, and home building or repair. These organizations rely on volunteers to carry out their activities, which indicates a sense of community and social cohesion as individuals come together to support and help one another.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Do you know the first names of at least four of your neighbors?
- A.
Yes, you're kidding, right?
- B.
No, you're kidding right?
Correct Answer
A. Yes, you're kidding, right?Explanation
The correct answer is "Yes, you're kidding, right?" because the question asks if you know the first names of at least four of your neighbors. The response implies that it is unlikely or sarcastic to know the first names of four neighbors, suggesting that the person does not know the names.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Are at least half the businesses in your town small businesses run by someone who lives in the town? (Take a guess.)
- A.
It's possible. We have a lot of small shops and service providers.
- B.
Unlikely. All the stores are big boxes and even many of the services are provided by chains.
Correct Answer
A. It's possible. We have a lot of small shops and service providers.Explanation
The given answer suggests that it is possible for at least half of the businesses in the town to be small businesses run by someone who lives in the town. This is based on the fact that the town has a lot of small shops and service providers.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What best describes the center/core of your town. (One might call it the heart of your town. Its psychological center.)
- A.
There is no center. It is completely diffuse residential with maybe a few malls scattered about.
- B.
Two arterials meet with some strip malls, chain restaurants, big box stores, gas stations, fast food on the corners.
- C.
Our large city has an extensive business-centered downtown and the neighborhoods have vibrant shopping districts that act as secondary cores; or, our smaller town/city has between one and ten downtown blocks with shops, services, restaurants and coffee shops.
Correct Answer
C. Our large city has an extensive business-centered downtown and the neighborhoods have vibrant shopping districts that act as secondary cores; or, our smaller town/city has between one and ten downtown blocks with shops, services, restaurants and coffee shops.Explanation
The correct answer describes a large city with a business-centered downtown area and vibrant shopping districts in the neighborhoods that serve as secondary cores. Alternatively, for smaller towns or cities, the answer mentions the presence of one to ten downtown blocks with various establishments like shops, services, restaurants, and coffee shops. This explanation highlights the different scenarios that can represent the center or core of a town, either through a bustling downtown or a compact area with diverse amenities.Rate this question:
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- 21.
(photo: streetsblog.org)Look at an overhead Google Earth view of your town core. Is more space dedicated to buildings or to surface parking lots?
- A.
Buildings
- B.
Parking, parking, parking
Correct Answer
A. BuildingsExplanation
The correct answer is "Buildings." When looking at an overhead Google Earth view of a town core, if more space is dedicated to buildings than to surface parking lots, it means that the town prioritizes development and infrastructure for various purposes such as residential, commercial, or cultural activities. This indicates a focus on creating vibrant and functional urban spaces rather than allocating excessive land for parking.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Are there dead malls or dead strip malls within your town's incorporated limits?
- A.
Yes. That's just the way America is now.
- B.
No dead ones. They're either active, been torn down, creatively repurposed to other uses, or we never had any to begin with.
- C.
Does being filled with squatters count as repurposing?
- D.
Does standing as a decaying monument to American consumerism count as repurposing?
Correct Answer
B. No dead ones. They're either active, been torn down, creatively repurposed to other uses, or we never had any to begin with.Explanation
The answer suggests that there are no dead malls or dead strip malls within the town's incorporated limits. It states that the existing malls are either active, torn down, creatively repurposed for other uses, or the town never had any malls to begin with. This implies that the town has effectively managed its malls, ensuring their continuous use or finding alternative ways to utilize the space.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Is the Federal Government the largest industry in your state?
- A.
Yes, I live in DC, Alaska, Virginia, Maryland, Hawaii, New Mexico or Oklahoma.
- B.
No, how is it possible for the Federal Government to be a state's largest industry?
Correct Answer
B. No, how is it possible for the Federal Government to be a state's largest industry?Explanation
The correct answer is "No, how is it possible for the Federal Government to be a state's largest industry?" This answer is correct because the question asks if the Federal Government is the largest industry in a state, and the answer correctly points out that it is not possible for the Federal Government to be considered an industry within a state. The Federal Government is a governing body that operates at the national level and is not specific to any particular state.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Do you know of local small businesses in your town that have received crowdfunding in order to start up?
- A.
Yes.
- B.
What is crowdfunding?
Correct Answer
A. Yes. -
- 25.
In the last thirty years, has nature struck your town in a way that damaged more than a thousand homes/buildings? Or, over the next ten years, is there at least a 50% probability that such an event will occur due to (check all that apply):
- A.
Storm surge? (answer yes if you live in southern Florida)
- B.
River flood?
- C.
Tornado?
- D.
Earthquake?
- E.
Hurricane?
- F.
None of the above. We're either not vulnerable to these things or we've engineered our buildings or our rivers or built seawalls to keep us damage-free.
Correct Answer
F. None of the above. We're either not vulnerable to these things or we've engineered our buildings or our rivers or built seawalls to keep us damage-free.Explanation
The correct answer states that none of the listed events (storm surge, river flood, tornado, earthquake, hurricane) have struck the town in a way that damaged more than a thousand homes/buildings in the last thirty years. Additionally, it suggests that the town is not vulnerable to these events because they have either engineered their buildings, rivers, or built seawalls to protect themselves from potential damage.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In your town:Are there sidewalks connecting most residences to your town's core?Are there bike lanes in your town, at least enough to form a useful grid to get around?Do people hang out in your town's core just for fun on a sunny Saturday afternoon?Do you see small children in strollers and dogs on leashes in your town core?Does your town core have an outdoor common gathering space?Does your town core have an indoor common gathering space?
- A.
We have three or more of these going for us.
- B.
We have two or fewer of these. Not much street life exists outside the car.
- C.
People in my town are far too busy to gather or hang out.
- D.
If I saw children or dogs in my town, I would move.
Correct Answer
A. We have three or more of these going for us.Explanation
The answer "We have three or more of these going for us" suggests that the town being referred to has at least three or more positive attributes mentioned in the previous statements. These attributes include sidewalks connecting residences to the town's core, bike lanes forming a useful grid, people hanging out in the town's core for fun on weekends, the presence of small children and dogs in the town core, and the existence of both outdoor and indoor common gathering spaces. This indicates that the town has a vibrant street life and a sense of community.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Do the citizens of your town have reason to have affection for it? Do they seem to take pride in it? (Citizens of such towns will be less likely to pick up and leave if the going gets tough.)--Could the core of your town in any way be called charming?--Do you see people greeting each other in your town's core or in the neighborhood shopping districts?--Would you be comfortable letting a twelve year old spend an hour alone in your town's core area at noon?--Is there good public access to nature/hiking trails/bike trails/beach/river/other water feature within your town?--Have some families lived in your town for multiple generations?--Does your town have any history of bouncing back from a tough time?--Do people grow flowers in their front yards or in pots on their front steps?--Is there any view of your town that would make an attractive postcard?--When citizens of your town are asked where they're from, do they tell the truth?
- A.
Yes to four or more.
- B.
Yes to three or fewer. We have work to do.
- C.
We don't need no stinking flowers in our town.
- D.
I barely know my town's name.
Correct Answer
A. Yes to four or more.Explanation
If the answer is "Yes to four or more," it indicates that the citizens of the town have reasons to have affection for it and take pride in it. The positive responses to questions about the town's charm, people greeting each other, safety for children, access to nature, multi-generational families, resilience, and attractive views suggest that the town is a desirable place to live. This sense of attachment and pride makes the citizens less likely to leave during difficult times.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Are any of these true for your town?--80% of the citizens live within a mile of a grocery store.--More than half the children walk or bike to school--Over a quarter of your town's citizens already walk, bike, or take transit for most trips.--People walk or bike most trips under a mile.
- A.
At least one of the above is true.
- B.
None of these apply to my town. We drive, drive, drive everywhere all the time.
- C.
My neighbor drives thirty feet down the driveway to pick up his mail.
- D.
Buses, bikes and walking are for poor people and losers. How can they have any effect on sustainability?
Correct Answer
A. At least one of the above is true.Explanation
The answer "At least one of the above is true" is correct because the statement implies that there is at least one statement among the given options that is true for the town. It does not specify which statement is true, but it confirms that there is at least one true statement among them.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Let's examine food security.--Can food be grown year round in your town, either due to mild climate or greenhouses/hoop tunnels?--Are there at least four fruit trees in your neighborhood?--Is it legal to raise chickens in your town?--Could your town easily get most of its calories from food grown within a hundred mile radius?--Do community gardens, community farms, community food forests exist in or near your town?--Is there a Food Not Lawns movement in your town?
- A.
I can say yes to at least two.
- B.
We will always have blueberries flown in from Chile.
- C.
You can't grow Chicken McNuggets.
- D.
As far as I know, food emerges from the ground wrapped in plastic.
Correct Answer
A. I can say yes to at least two.Explanation
The correct answer "I can say yes to at least two" suggests that the person answering the question can affirmatively respond to at least two of the given statements regarding food security. The answer implies that the person's town either has a mild climate or greenhouses/hoop tunnels for year-round food production, and there are at least four fruit trees in their neighborhood. This indicates that the town has some level of food self-sufficiency and access to fresh produce.Rate this question:
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- 30.
(photo: Johntex, wikicommons)Let's look at the skills/ingenuity your town possesses. Do you personally know someone who:--keeps chickens, goats or bees?--brews beer, cider or root beer, or makes homemade wine?--can knit a sock or a sweater?--can make a loaf of bread or a pie?--can weld?--can make vinegars, jams, pickles or other canned items?--owns a set of woodworking tools?--is always inventing stuff?--is clever with repairs or electronics?--can build a simple structure like a shed?--can repair a flat tire on a bicycle?--can sew something easy, like pajama bottoms? Or makes quilts?
- A.
I know at least five people like this in my town.
- B.
If it can't be done by pushing a button, my friends don't do it.
- C.
Gosh, why didn't you include setting up a website or at least a Facebook page?
- D.
I wish I knew at least five people like this in my town.
Correct Answer
A. I know at least five people like this in my town.Explanation
The given correct answer indicates that the person answering the question personally knows at least five individuals in their town who possess the mentioned skills and ingenuity. This suggests that the town has a diverse range of talented and resourceful individuals who are capable of various tasks such as keeping animals, brewing beverages, crafting, repairing, and more. The answer also implies that the person values and appreciates the practical abilities of their acquaintances.Rate this question:
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- 31.
How healthy/unhealthy are your town's politics?
- A.
More than ten percent of our politicians' campaign contributions come from sources other than real human beings who actually live in the town.
- B.
After they leave office our politicians accept jobs from the corporations/businesses they regulated or gave favors to.
- C.
Our town spends lots of time and energy blaming others (immigrants! gays! minorities! liberals! conservatives!) for our problems.
- D.
Police shoot unarmed citizens.
- E.
Most of our town's revenue comes from fines and tickets.
- F.
Our town officials believe in the power of ever-expanding debt, growth and asphalt, in that order.
- G.
Wow, my town sounds pretty sane and functional compared to the above.
Correct Answer
G. Wow, my town sounds pretty sane and functional compared to the above.Explanation
The given answer implies that the town described in the previous statements has a dysfunctional and unhealthy political environment. The answer suggests that the town being compared to is relatively better in terms of its politics, indicating that it is more rational and functional compared to the negative aspects mentioned in the previous statements.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Almost every town spends money on public safety, education, water, sewer, roads, and, above a certain size, transportation. But the cost of providing these services per citizen expands the more spread out your population is. Many towns are already beleaguered by debt and falling tax revenues; most haven't set aside funds to repair sewer or water systems when the time comes.Think of your town core. Depending upon your town's population, supporting sewer, water and public safety services (and for larger towns school buses and public transit) is going to be quite expensive beyond the following radii:1 mile (populations under 10,000)2 miles (populations 10,000 - 30,000)3 miles (populations 30,000 - 100,000)4 mile (populations 100,000 - 250,000)5 miles (populations 250,000 - 400,000)5 - 7 miles (populations 400,000+)
- A.
More than two-thirds of our population lives within this radius. We may have to abandon some areas on our periphery, but on the whole we'll be fine.
- B.
Less than two-thirds our citizens live within this radius, but we'll just issue bonds, and someone else will eventually pay for it all. That's how cities and towns work.
- C.
Everyone in our town has their own well water, is on their own septic tank, has their own security guards, drives their own children to school, and our state and federal government will pay for all our roads in perpetuity. Our town could stretch from coast to coast if it wanted to.
- D.
Clean water is overrated.
Correct Answer
A. More than two-thirds of our population lives within this radius. We may have to abandon some areas on our periphery, but on the whole we'll be fine.Explanation
The correct answer explains that more than two-thirds of the population lives within the specified radius, which means that the majority of the population is concentrated in a smaller area. This suggests that the town can prioritize and allocate resources more efficiently to provide essential services such as sewer, water, and public safety to the majority of its citizens. Although some areas on the periphery may need to be abandoned, overall the town can still function adequately.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Transportation by rail is the most energy efficient and can be converted the most easily to electricity. Is your town on any kind of heavy rail line such as:--a heavy rail rapid transit system (like BART in the Bay Area, the Washington Metro, or the New York City Subway system.)--a commuter rail line--a freight line still running through town that could possibly be converted to passenger use--an Amtrak line passes through town.
- A.
Yes, my town is either on a heavy rail line or within five miles of one.
- B.
No rail access at the moment. Maybe it will still happen.
- C.
Railroads are for quiche-eating socialists.
- D.
Why do we need railroads? In the future everyone will be able to afford an electric car, won't they?
Correct Answer
A. Yes, my town is either on a heavy rail line or within five miles of one.Explanation
The correct answer is that the town is either on a heavy rail line or within five miles of one. This is because transportation by rail is the most energy efficient and can be easily converted to electricity. Being located near a heavy rail line provides the town with the opportunity to utilize this energy-efficient mode of transportation.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Last question! This one is almost as important as the water one. What percentage of your working age population commutes to work by car more than 20 miles each way?
- A.
Over 90%. You think this is going to be a problem?
- B.
75 - 90%. I'm sure in the future they'll all carpool.
- C.
50 - 75%. No doubt someone will build commuter or light rail out to us before it's a problem.
- D.
25 - 50%. Telecommuting will solve this.
- E.
Less than 25%. This means people won't have to choose between living in our town and keeping their job.
Correct Answer
E. Less than 25%. This means people won't have to choose between living in our town and keeping their job.Explanation
The answer "Less than 25%. This means people won't have to choose between living in our town and keeping their job" suggests that a low percentage of the working age population commutes to work by car more than 20 miles each way. This is seen as a positive because it means that people do not have to make a difficult choice between living in the town and keeping their job. It implies that there are job opportunities within close proximity to the town or that alternative transportation options are available.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Http://www.governing.com/gov-data/census/median-age-county-population-map.htmlMedian ages across the country are going up as baby boomers, the 1000 lb gorillas of the population demographic, ages. However, some counties are able to keep very few of their young people around, which doesn't bode well for their future. In addition, in the future, people are likely to retire in place near their families and long-term communities rather than resettle. What is the median age for your county? (If you don't know, click on the above link that will take you to an interactive map of US counties.)
- A.
Over 50. Yeah, we're all old coots here and the town will die off when we do.
- B.
Between 45 and 50. Isn't older and wiser better?
- C.
Between 40 and 45. I'm sure the young people will come back once they have families.
- D.
Under 40. We're in good shape.
Correct Answer
D. Under 40. We're in good shape.Explanation
The correct answer is "Under 40. We're in good shape." This is because the passage states that some counties are unable to keep many young people around, which implies that having a lower median age is preferable for the future of the county. Additionally, the statement "We're in good shape" suggests that having a median age under 40 is seen as positive and indicates a healthier population demographic.Rate this question:
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