Global Warming-Guest Essay

Elk Grove Times---Pioneer Press Publications
Arlington Heights, Illinois

Guest Essay: Timely symposium starts today

(http://www.pioneerlocal.com/evanston/news/forum/607867,pp-climateessay-101807-s1.article)
October 18, 2007


By ELIZABETH BANKOFF
It is time. It is time to tackle the increasingly urgent problem of global warming. This problem poses an extremely serious threat to the environment, health and economy of our nation and world. The most recent scientific studies show that global warming is a reality and is already causing environmental changes that will have a variety of significant impacts on our lives.
The issue of global warming or climate change has been gaining attention for a good while. Media coverage in the past year has resulted in a dramatic increase in public awareness. As with many 'hot' topics, while there is a growing interest in this critical problem among the citizenry, uncertainty and confusion remain. What is it? How serious of a problem is it? How is it being addressed at the different levels of government? What are the consequences of a wait-and-see approach? Can we combat global warming without serious consequences to our economy? What can concerned citizens do in their own neighborhoods and homes?
In the summer of 2006, the Wilmette League of Women Voters made a commitment to help inform citizens about global warming.
Our Climate Matters, a four-day symposium on global warming, is the culmination of that commitment. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Wilmette, with the Glenview Park District and the leagues of Winnetka, Northfield, Kenilworth, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Glenview, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Park Ridge and Deerfield, Our Climate Matters commences today and runs through Sunday evening at the new Glenview Park District facilities in The Glen.
What began as an idea has evolved into a wide array of programs -- each focusing on a different aspect of this complex problem. Offerings include prominent speakers, as well as panels, forums and workshops in which scientists, business people, economists, legislators and other policy makers, architects, and citizens will discuss and share information and consider possible solutions.
A "Green" film festival, a presentation of the Chicago Cool Globes exhibit as well as an evening of "Cool Jazz" add a change of pace.
For a complete program schedule, visit the Web site, www.OurClimateMatters.org. All programs are free and open to the public.
James Madison once declared, "A people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power that knowledge gives".
Our hope is that Our Climate Matters will stimulate, educate and foster serious discussion on this critical issue. Ultimately, in our wonderful democracy, it is the will of the people that affects change.
Let the serious conversation begin!
Elizabeth Bankoff, a member of the League of Women Voters of Wilmette, is coordinator of Our Climate Matters.

Note---This article was posted because Wood Smoke affects global warming. For additional information see....
http://burningissues.org/car-www/science/Climate/index.html