Canio's Cultural Cafe

Grandparents concerned what future their grandchildren will inherit. A landscape photographer; a green builder; a micro-farmer and nature publisher; an ecology-minded poet; bird-lovers; activists and caregivers. We met every Thursday evening at Canio’s Books to discuss climate change. The course, designed by the Northwest Earth Institute (check out: http://www.nwei.org), provided thought-provoking readings and stimulating questions. We didn’t agree on every point, but all twelve of us feel passionately about the fate of our Earth, and our little corner of paradise on the east end of Long Island.
After working through thought-provoking articles on Global Warming and Powering a Bright Future, we met for a potluck supper at the net-zero home of one of our members. The great room was warm and toasty when we arrived, heated by the sun that very cold February evening, the house a quiet testament to the technology at hand that can help make a difference. The food was healthy and delicious. Some good cooks in this group! What’s more, we seem to have staying power, a “renewable” energy source, sustained by our being together.
We’ve begun a letter-writing campaign. Several members will join with Citizens Climate Action to lobby our representatives in Washington in June. Others are planning a regional climate summit, and a conference devoted to Long Island nature. Check out (www.longislandnature.org)  Our individual efforts seem to increase in community. We look forward to doing more, and to hosting another Northwest Earth Institute course soon. Won’t you join us?