Amidst the serious and sometimes devastating issues facing our nation today, you'll be glad to know our leaders are focusing on the important stuff. I refer to the guidelines published by the Department of Energy for helping Americans prepare for blackouts over the summer. Among its routine advice, it offers this jaw-dropping gem: "Have sustainably sourced disposable utensils and dinnerware on hand so you do not need to use water to wash dishes." I'll admit I blinked in shock when I read this. Sustainably sourced cutlery and dishes? Really? Of all the potential advice for handling blackouts, why did the...