Second annual 'Focus Skidmore' part of national teach-in

'Focus Skidmore' is part of a national teach-in on climate change solutions and policy implications for the first 100 days of President Barack Obama's administration. The following is a brief list of the events planned for Focus Skidmore 2009.

Monday, Feb. 2, 6 p.m. in Davis Auditorium - A half-hour webcast followed by a panel discussion on climate change solutions. Also on Monday:
-Greenhouse Gas Inventory Commuting and Environmental Awareness Survey will begin. Those participating in the survey will be entered into a drawing for such prizes as a $10 gift card to Putnam Market, $10 gift card to Uncommon Grounds and a $5 gift card to Saratoga Coffee Traders. The survey is available online. 
-Opportunity to pledge to use a reusable mug at Dining Services Spa, Burgess Cafe and Murray-Aikins Atrium Caf . The first 350 pledge participants will receive a coupon for a free reusable mug, which is redeemable at the Spa on Friday, Feb. 6, and Monday, Feb. 9. Please click here for more information on the 350 organization.
-Recyclemania kicks off! Recyclemania is a nationwide recycling and waste reduction competition and Skidmore is entered for the first year!! Please visit the Recyclemania website for details.

Wednesday, Feb. 4, 8 p.m. in the Spa - The documentary film, The RENEWAL Project, will be screened, followed by a facilitated discussion. The RENEWAL Project highlights various faith-based groups and their environmental efforts. Please click here for more details.

Thursday, Feb. 5, 7 p.m. in Gannett Auditorium - Keynote lecture titled 'Climate Change: Causes, Consequences and Policy Responses,' by William Schlesinger. Dr. Schlesinger will review the scientific basis of climate change, discuss the evidence that climate change is already with us, and the potential impacts of climate change for the upstate New York area during the remainder of this century. He will also discuss the relative merits of some of the proposed alternatives to fossil fuels as well as his thoughts on appropriate actions of the new administration in the first 100 days. To view Dr. Schlesinger's bio please click here.

More details about 'Focus Skidmore' and the College's Sustainability programs are available here.