Despite the drizzle and a chill in the air, almost 30 participants from babies to grandparents turned out to demand leadership in the fight against global warming and for a future with clean renewable energy. Informational handouts were available from Green Elements, our event sponsor, and several environmental groups including NRDC and Coop America. Environmental Defense and Sierra Club were on hand to answer questions. Voter registration forms were available as well.

We were unable to get any of our Congressional leaders to attend so Suzie briefly addressed the crowd and then read Bill McKibben's speech. Then we grabbed our posters and, with index fingers to the sky, posed for our group photo. The group enjoyed a hike to the top of the park where our hike leader spoke about the history of the park and urged attendees to vote Yes! on the Green Acres ballot question this Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of having a political voice and of voting with the environment in mind.

It was an inspiring, fantastic event where a diverse group of individuals came together to network and create new alliances for the work that lies ahead. We announced the formation of a climate action group that will work to get local towns on board for the Cool Cities program and then follow up to be sure there is follow through for real change.

Thank you, Bill, and the entire Step it Up team for your enthusiastic support and the tools you provided to make this national day of action a reality. You are the change. Every one who came out on this day is the change. We will make it happen!