A celebration of the power of words to address global climate change
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. - A celebration of the power of words to address global climate change will take place October 24 from 10AM to 1PM at Williamstown Elementary School. This event, “Word Play Power Day” is part of the local Words are Wonderful literacy festival at the school, and also marks the International Day of Climate Action (see www.350.org).Local actions will take place across the country and around the globe, with over 3500 actions planned in 167 countries on this day. The days events will focus on the need for reducing the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide to 350 parts per million to blunt the impact of human induced climate change. Carbon dioxide levels are currently 387 parts per million in the atmosphere.
The day will begin with First Congregational Church tolling its bells 350 times at 10AM as a call to action. Community members are invited to come help ring the bell. Organizations from throughout the community will be on hand at the Elementary School to stage an educational and fun event that organizers hope will mobilize people to take actions in their own homes and communities to promote a sustainable climate. After making a “climate passport” with Storey Publishing, people can travel around the gym to have interactive experiences related to climate change. Inkberry will stage a reading of 350 nature poems (all are invited to bring an original or favorite poem to read). Kidspace will be on hand to promote fun with local food, and Wild Oats Community Market will offer information and tasting of local food.
Local textile artist and environmentalist Crispina ffrench will work with children using recycled textiles to create a collaborative art piece with the number “350”. There will be information and demonstrations related energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Hoosac River Watershed Association will provide a “water tasting” to promote drinking local tap water over bottled water. A Williams College Zip Car will be on site and people can learn about how to sign up with the Zip Car program.
Williams College students will present information about climate change. The Williamstown Police Department will run a safe bicycling clinic. BRTA will have a small bus. Mount Greylock students will attend and bring along letters to Senator Kerry urging him to act quickly to pass a climate bill that will reduce emissions in advance of the Copenhagen climate meetings in December. There will be music by local band Trophy Husbands, and those attending will have an opportunity to hear from Senator Ben Downing. Students participating in the days events may receive a free stainless steel water bottle.
Food and pumpkin carving will be available in the cafeteria, and a Scholastic book fair will take place in the auditorium. All are invited.
People of all ages are welcome and are encouraged to walk or bike to the event. For those who drive, there will be free tire pressure testing and tire inflation. People are encouraged to drive or bike from the event to Jiminy Peak for a 1:00 tour of the Zephyr wind turbine.
