So, here is an interesting alliance ... Starbucks (SBUX: sentiment, chart, options) and Nike (NKE: sentiment, chart, options). That's right; running shoes and latte, Jumpman and java (I personally like that one the best), MJ and mochas (a close second), Schultzie and the Swoosh. What has brought these 2 giants together? Al Gore -- is there anything that man can't do (aside from find a way to keep his electric bills down)? Just kidding on the Al Gore thing; he has little to do with this, other than the fact that the 2 firms have teamed up with other companies to form a new coalition calling for strong U.S. climate and energy legislation in early 2009. The lobbying group (named BICEP; Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy ... sounds like a G.I. Joe character, as well) will rally for policies that encourage energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and green job creation, all while discouraging higher-polluting technologies.

First, this is a good move, a noble gesture ... but who doesn't want to save the environment? Honestly, I file this move under getting on the green bandwagon (there's your Al Gore). Bottom line, this could be the only green initiative that SBUX sees, since the Northwest caffeine king is such a poor performer. The stock continues to drop, recently losing potential support at the 8 level. Watch for this level to act as resistance, as prior support will often switch roles when given the chance. Yes, I understand that Schultzie's goal here is more noble, but when it comes down to it ... how good is being green to the environment when you aren't green to your shareholders?