This week, over 1,500 colleges and universities across the country held educational events for Focus the Nation - a national "teach-in," intended to raise public awareness of global warming and the challenges presented by the climate crisis.  Here at Pacific University, at least, the event was a huge success.  On Tuesday, renowned photojournalist Gary Brassch showcased his years of work documenting the effects of global warming on landscapes, natural ecosystems, and communities.  On Wednesday, Oregon Secretary of State Bill Bradburry gave a version of the slide presentation on which An Inconvenient Truth was based.  Finally, Thursday saw a discussion of how we can realistically and effectively combat global warming, by a panel that included Pacific students and faculty.  All told, well over 100 people attended one or more of the events. 

Throughout the three days of Focus the Nation at Pacific, the emphasis was on the fact that we need change at every level - individuals need to pitch in, as well as every level of government.  Bill Bradburry explicitly stated that "the national, state, county, and city governments" all have to be on board.  It's something to keep in mind as the Cool Washington County campaign continues to pressure Washington County for real action, and as we look into the seriousness of the City of Forest Grove's commitment to becoming "green."  We need change in this area - and the time for that change is now.

If you haven't already, and you live in Washington County, please SIGN THE PETITION TO THE COUNTY BOARD asking them for firm action on global warming!

-Nick