Message from Ed Fallon

By Ed Fallon

Like many Americans, I’m increasingly concerned about global warming.  With the recent release of a special report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, there is no longer any doubt:  the scientific community is united on the reality of the problem and the role of human activity in causing it.  Furthermore, in light of Hurricane Katrina, dramatic loss of polar ice, melting glaciers and other climate-related developments, it is clear that we need immediate local and national action at the personal and political level to reduce our impact on the problem.  (This just in:  today’s Associated Press story by Randolph Schmid about data showing that this winter is now officially the warmest on record.)

For years, author Bill McKibben has been sounding the alarm on global warming.  Now, finally, more and more people and policy-makers are waking-up to the reality that new policies and new behaviors are essential.

McKibben has called on Americans to make April 14 a National Day of Climate Action.  Over 900 local events are planned across the country.  So far, here’s what’s happening in Iowa:

AMES:  Meet at 1:00 p.m. at the power plant on the ISU campus. Participants will walk to the Ames Municipal Power Plant, then to Bandshell Park for a rally from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. with speakers and live music. Contact Julia Olmstead at juliaolmstead@gmail.com or (515) 292-4459.

CEDAR RAPIDS:  To show that change is accomplished through action, not just talk, the public is invited to walk, bike, take a bus or carpool to The Cedar Rapids Peace Center (1029 3rd Street SE) for an open forum discussion entitled “Local Solutions to a Global Challenge:  Creating a Sustainable Community in Cedar Rapids.”  The forum is free to the public and scheduled from noon until 5:00 p.m.  Contact (319) 363-1774.

CEDAR RAPIDS II:  The Linn County Conservation Board and Indian Creek Nature Center offer a four-week program at ICNC at 7:00 p.m. from April 12 through May 3.  It’s called “Climate Change:  Coming to a Neighborhood Near You,” and the promotional material reads:  â€śClimate change:  what it is, what causes it, evidence that it is real, and what we need to do to keep the worst-case scenarios from occurring. Learn what you--and we as a nation--need to do to combat the worst environmental problem of the 21st century.”  The program costs $3 for members, $4 for non-members.  Call (319) 362-0664 to register.

CEDAR RAPIDS III:  Details are still pending, but students at Kirkwood Community College are planning a demonstration on April 14.  Contact Sarah Griffith at sarah-griffith1@student.kirkwood.edu.

DES MOINES:  Drake-area resident, Phil Leino, ignited the spark that has kicked off a coalition effort.  People are invited to walk, bike, bus or carpool to downtown for a rally at Nollen Plaza from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m.  At the rally, people can purchase a copy of Bill McKibben’s new book, Deep Economy, and three copies will be given away to the participant who (1) walked the furthest, (2) biked the furthest, and (3) got to downtown using the most creative means or had the most interesting experience en route.  Participants are encouraged to get the most out of their carbon-saving commute by enjoying supper at a downtown restaurant and taking-in one of many evening activities. Contact me or Lynn at imforiowa@gmail.com or (515) 201-9405.

If you are interested in pulling together an event for your town, it’s not too late.  If you need additional contacts of like-minded people in your area, or if you need ideas, let me know. This is a critically important issue, and the national attention focused on April 14 gives us a great opportunity to build momentum for change.

Thanks for reading and caring!

Ed Fallon