By Nancy Baer, Sedona Resident
(September 15, 2013)
On September 9, Sedona Smart Meter Awareness (SSMA) and the Sedona International Film Festival introduced Sedona and surrounding communities to the premiere Arizona showing of “Take Back Your Power,” a documentary by Josh del Sol that investigates the risks of this ubiquitous “smart” grid, with insight from insiders, expert researchers, politicians, doctors, and concerned communities. The documentary takes us on a journey of revelation and discovery, as it questions corporations’ right to tap our private information and erode our rights in the name of “green.” The Mary D. Fisher Theatre was filled to capacity with locals, as well as people from New York, San Francisco, Cottonwood, Camp Verde, Cornville and New Mexico!
SSMA donors funded the three showings of the movie to engaged audiences. Each question and answer period following the shows were filled with questions about smart meters and the approaching installation in Sedona and the Verde Valley. A member of SSMA brought along test equipment he uses in Phoenix to demonstrate how much microwave radiation is being emitted by an audience member’s cell phone. Smart Meters emit about 100 times the radiation of a cell phone and will emit pulses 24/7, up to 190,000 times per day. The audience discussed their concerns related to health, safety, privacy and cost. “Everyone should see this video,” said a retired surgeon.
Copies of the DVDs available at the show sold out. The audience was encouraged to invite neighbors to their homes to watch the film and then to opt out as neighborhoods. Those interested in seeing “Take Back Your Power” may do so by going to the Sedona Smart Meter Awareness’ website (www.sedonasmartmeterawareness.com) and either renting or ordering a copy of the movie.
