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Fall 2022
Solar Power with Dale Roy.
St John's Valley Senior College
In person class
Discover the theory behind, and operation of photovoltaic systems from light formation in the sun to the lightbulb in your home. These systems reliably produce electricity and have become an increasingly more affordable renewable energy option.
Tue. Nov. 15, 6:00 to 7:30 PM, UMFK Cyr Hall, Room 204.
In person class
Discover the theory behind, and operation of photovoltaic systems from light formation in the sun to the lightbulb in your home. These systems reliably produce electricity and have become an increasingly more affordable renewable energy option.
Tue. Nov. 15, 6:00 to 7:30 PM, UMFK Cyr Hall, Room 204.
Should The Next Car You Buy Be All Electric? - Paul Mullin
Gold LEAF Institute -
Dec 6, 2022 at 10 am - Online Class
For most of our driving lives vehicles had motors powered by gasoline or diesel fuel. In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and their detrimental effect on the climate, there has been a push to transition from these carbon fuels to electric power. First came hybrid, then plug-in hybrid, and more recently all electric vehicles. Although only 5% of new cars now being purchased are electric, it is anticipated that most cars in the future will be electric. Paul will review factors to consider when deciding whether to go all electric, and his experience with purchasing, owning, and operating an electric powered vehicle.
Paul has been an active member of Gold LEAF for a number of years, and the moderator of the Views on the News discussion group.
Dec 6, 2022 at 10 am - Online Class
For most of our driving lives vehicles had motors powered by gasoline or diesel fuel. In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and their detrimental effect on the climate, there has been a push to transition from these carbon fuels to electric power. First came hybrid, then plug-in hybrid, and more recently all electric vehicles. Although only 5% of new cars now being purchased are electric, it is anticipated that most cars in the future will be electric. Paul will review factors to consider when deciding whether to go all electric, and his experience with purchasing, owning, and operating an electric powered vehicle.
Paul has been an active member of Gold LEAF for a number of years, and the moderator of the Views on the News discussion group.
Clean Water is Vital - Alanna Yannelli
Bridgton Senior College. In-person class. October 4th.
Clean water is vital to all living creatures, including humans. We need it to survive on a daily basis and use it from everything from drinking, to showering to flushing the toilet. But did you know there is water tied up in all the goods that we purchase? From transportation to food to clothing, water is used all along the supply chain. Join Alanna Yannelli from the Lakes Environmental Association to learn about the water that is “hidden” in everyday items that we use, how land conservation, and a changing climate can affect water quality, and how to reduce your water use.
Alanna Yannelli grew up in Sebago and learned from a young age not to let the faucet drip. She works hard to incorporate all that she’s learned about water conservation into her daily life and enjoys sharing that awareness with others through education programs at LEA.
Clean water is vital to all living creatures, including humans. We need it to survive on a daily basis and use it from everything from drinking, to showering to flushing the toilet. But did you know there is water tied up in all the goods that we purchase? From transportation to food to clothing, water is used all along the supply chain. Join Alanna Yannelli from the Lakes Environmental Association to learn about the water that is “hidden” in everyday items that we use, how land conservation, and a changing climate can affect water quality, and how to reduce your water use.
Alanna Yannelli grew up in Sebago and learned from a young age not to let the faucet drip. She works hard to incorporate all that she’s learned about water conservation into her daily life and enjoys sharing that awareness with others through education programs at LEA.
The Journey from Climate Doom
to Active Hope -
THOMAS WHITE
When you think about climate change and ecosystem
destruction, do you experience feelings of despair or
helplessness? Do you want to leave these negative thoughts
and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey
to “active hope?” In this small, discussion-oriented class,
you will explore the ideas of scientists, social scientists,
and philosophers who have shown us how we could create
a more hopeful story for ourselves. You will consider this
question: How can I become more active — and hopeful —
in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of
future generations? Repeat course. Course format will include
in-person lectures and discussions, with the exception of the
last two classes; these will be online via Zoom.
Thomas G. White has a PhD in developmental psychology. He has taught
at Gettysburg College, OLLI at the College of William and Mary, and OLLI
USM. A summer resident of East Boothbay, he has been inspired by Rachel
Carson’s books.
OLLI at the University of Southern maine - COURSE FRI, 9/16 – 11/4 • 12:45 – 2:45 P.M. • $50
destruction, do you experience feelings of despair or
helplessness? Do you want to leave these negative thoughts
and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey
to “active hope?” In this small, discussion-oriented class,
you will explore the ideas of scientists, social scientists,
and philosophers who have shown us how we could create
a more hopeful story for ourselves. You will consider this
question: How can I become more active — and hopeful —
in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of
future generations? Repeat course. Course format will include
in-person lectures and discussions, with the exception of the
last two classes; these will be online via Zoom.
Thomas G. White has a PhD in developmental psychology. He has taught
at Gettysburg College, OLLI at the College of William and Mary, and OLLI
USM. A summer resident of East Boothbay, he has been inspired by Rachel
Carson’s books.
OLLI at the University of Southern maine - COURSE FRI, 9/16 – 11/4 • 12:45 – 2:45 P.M. • $50
Loon Echo Land Trust - Matt Markot
Bridgton Senior College.
October 11 - In-person class.
Over the past three years, the demand for and interest in outdoor spaces and recreation opportunities everywhere has skyrocketed. How do we balance access to the outdoors with impacts on natural resources? How do we move forward to a future with ample and equitable access to the outdoors? Matt will also discuss LELT's recent land protection & trail projects, collaborative efforts to protect land in the Sebago Lake watershed, and ways community members can help protect the important places in their community.
October 11 - In-person class.
Over the past three years, the demand for and interest in outdoor spaces and recreation opportunities everywhere has skyrocketed. How do we balance access to the outdoors with impacts on natural resources? How do we move forward to a future with ample and equitable access to the outdoors? Matt will also discuss LELT's recent land protection & trail projects, collaborative efforts to protect land in the Sebago Lake watershed, and ways community members can help protect the important places in their community.
Native Maine Plants and Pollinators: They Need Our Help - Nancy Donovan
Bridgton Senior College -
October 10
Looking out her window envisioning birds, bees and butterflies visiting colorful ground cover and gardens, Nancy Donovan enrolled in the Maine Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program in South Paris. Her goal was to learn successful gardening practices for her own gardens and to potentially assist others in avoiding gardening errors.
In her presentation, Nancy will discuss the advantages of growing plants native to Maine and the benefits to pollinators. She will outline how to grow them from seed collected from native Maine plants. Also, describe the process of having a garden designated as Pollinator Certified by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Nancy Donovan, PhD, Retired PT – built her home in Bridgton in 2007. She
retired in December 2019 and in January 2020 enrolled in the Maine
Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program.
October 10
Looking out her window envisioning birds, bees and butterflies visiting colorful ground cover and gardens, Nancy Donovan enrolled in the Maine Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program in South Paris. Her goal was to learn successful gardening practices for her own gardens and to potentially assist others in avoiding gardening errors.
In her presentation, Nancy will discuss the advantages of growing plants native to Maine and the benefits to pollinators. She will outline how to grow them from seed collected from native Maine plants. Also, describe the process of having a garden designated as Pollinator Certified by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Nancy Donovan, PhD, Retired PT – built her home in Bridgton in 2007. She
retired in December 2019 and in January 2020 enrolled in the Maine
Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program.
Katahdin Woods and Waters Park with Elaine Hendrickson.
St Johns Valley Senior College -
In August of 2016, President Barack Obama signed a proclomation creating the 87,500 acres of land east of Baxter State Park as Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument.
Elaine will share what makes this newest National Monument in Maine such a special place to visit & explore. Tue. Oct. 4,
6:00 - 7:30 PM , UMFK Cyr Hall Room 204. In Person
In August of 2016, President Barack Obama signed a proclomation creating the 87,500 acres of land east of Baxter State Park as Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument.
Elaine will share what makes this newest National Monument in Maine such a special place to visit & explore. Tue. Oct. 4,
6:00 - 7:30 PM , UMFK Cyr Hall Room 204. In Person
April 2022
Video - "The Future of Shellfish in the Gulf of Maine” - Sunrise Senior College. Watch this presentation on YouTube
Downeast Institute's founder and Director of Research, Dr. Brian Beal, describes building the easternmost marine research institute and shellfish hatchery in the US and what our field research tells us about the future of the shellfish in the Gulf of Maine.
This presentation was an offering by Sunrise Senior College at University of Maine at Machias.
This presentation was an offering by Sunrise Senior College at University of Maine at Machias.
April 4th - "Carbon Negative Solutions in Maine and Beyond"
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
"Carbon Negative Solutions in Maine and Beyond" - This session will focus on “solutions”, or more accurately, opportunities to create negative carbon emissions that are an essential part of our integrated climate response. In the first hour, the session will cover aspects of the natural environment in Maine (e.g., in the wood and soil) and their ability to store carbon. The second hour will be focused on negative emission technologies to reduce CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere with global potential as embodied in the Climate Restoration initiative.
Presenters: Ivan Fernandez and Peter Garrett.
Ivan Fernandez is a professor at the School of Forest Resources Climate Change Institute and School of Food and Agriculture at the University of Maine where he has taught courses in forest soils, carbon and climate, and climate adaption. Since 2019 he has been a member of the Maine Climate Council and serves as a Co-Chair of its Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. In 2021 he was also a member of the Governor’s Carbon Task force.
Peter Garrett has been a leader in developing a network of advocates on the climate change issue in Maine under Citizens Climate Education and Citizens Climate Lobby. Previously, he led a hydrogeology consulting team cleaning up and developing new groundwater sources for towns throughout the state and elsewhere.
You can still sign up for the Penobscot Valley SC"Climate Change Series" - FMI: https://bit.ly/36Tg7vY
Image by Daniel Chicchon
Presenters: Ivan Fernandez and Peter Garrett.
Ivan Fernandez is a professor at the School of Forest Resources Climate Change Institute and School of Food and Agriculture at the University of Maine where he has taught courses in forest soils, carbon and climate, and climate adaption. Since 2019 he has been a member of the Maine Climate Council and serves as a Co-Chair of its Scientific and Technical Subcommittee. In 2021 he was also a member of the Governor’s Carbon Task force.
Peter Garrett has been a leader in developing a network of advocates on the climate change issue in Maine under Citizens Climate Education and Citizens Climate Lobby. Previously, he led a hydrogeology consulting team cleaning up and developing new groundwater sources for towns throughout the state and elsewhere.
You can still sign up for the Penobscot Valley SC"Climate Change Series" - FMI: https://bit.ly/36Tg7vY
Image by Daniel Chicchon
Monday, April 18, 1:30 - 3:30 PM - Maine Won’t Wait: The State Climate Plan and How Mainers are Taking Action.
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
"Maine Won’t Wait: The State Climate Plan and How Mainers are Taking Action."
Maine Won’t Wait is a four-year climate plan presenting feasible strategies and goals to emit less carbon, produce energy from renewable sources and protect our natural resources, communities and people from the effects of climate change. This session will introduce the plan to participants and cover examples of Mainers taking action.
Presenter: Cassandra Rose Dr. Rose is a Senior Science Analyst and Climate Council Coordinator with the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future (Link below). Dr. Rose managed a policy and communications program for the American Geosciences Institute between 2015 and 2019, where she connected the geoscience community with policy makers at the local, state, and federal levels to support science-based decision making on issues related to climate, energy, water, mineral resources, and natural hazards.
For more information about the PVSC series go to https://bit.ly/3NNe8d9
Image by Justin Bisson Beck
Maine Won’t Wait is a four-year climate plan presenting feasible strategies and goals to emit less carbon, produce energy from renewable sources and protect our natural resources, communities and people from the effects of climate change. This session will introduce the plan to participants and cover examples of Mainers taking action.
Presenter: Cassandra Rose Dr. Rose is a Senior Science Analyst and Climate Council Coordinator with the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future (Link below). Dr. Rose managed a policy and communications program for the American Geosciences Institute between 2015 and 2019, where she connected the geoscience community with policy makers at the local, state, and federal levels to support science-based decision making on issues related to climate, energy, water, mineral resources, and natural hazards.
For more information about the PVSC series go to https://bit.ly/3NNe8d9
Image by Justin Bisson Beck
Monday, April 25, 1:30 - 3:30 PM ; Climate Justice: What is a Fair Share of the Costs?
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
"Climate Justice: What is a Fair Share of the Costs?"
Lecture followed by discussion. The focus will be on what is a fair share of the burdens of climate change mitigation (and adaptation), both globally and domestically. Some questions to be discussed include: What greenhouse gas emissions reductions are needed to keep global warming below 2 or 1.5 degrees Celsius? Who is responsible for making these reductions or paying for them? How much should a just policy take into account past emissions or ability to pay? What kinds of policies can bring about climate change justice?
Presenter: Michael Howard is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Maine, where he has taught since 1981 and has published scores of articles on topics in social and political philosophy, including economic democracy, universal basic income, and climate justice.
Image by Markus Spiske
Lecture followed by discussion. The focus will be on what is a fair share of the burdens of climate change mitigation (and adaptation), both globally and domestically. Some questions to be discussed include: What greenhouse gas emissions reductions are needed to keep global warming below 2 or 1.5 degrees Celsius? Who is responsible for making these reductions or paying for them? How much should a just policy take into account past emissions or ability to pay? What kinds of policies can bring about climate change justice?
Presenter: Michael Howard is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Maine, where he has taught since 1981 and has published scores of articles on topics in social and political philosophy, including economic democracy, universal basic income, and climate justice.
Image by Markus Spiske
Monday, May 2, 1:30 - 3:30 PM - "Achieving Maine’s Renewable Energy and Climate Goals "
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
"Achieving Maine’s Renewable Energy and Climate Goals."
Achieving Maine’s Renewable Energy and Climate Goals The State of Maine has been a leader in both recognizing the potential impacts of climate change on the state and in enacting policy to mitigate and prepare for the risks associated with climate change impacts. In this session, staff from the Governor’s Energy Office will discuss how Maine’s unique and abundant renewable energy resources can be responsibly developed to position the state to achieve its clean energy and climate goals, and how a transition to a greener, cleaner grid can be achieved in an effective, affordable, and equitable manner through careful policy design. This session will include both lecture and discussion portions.
Presenters: Caroline Colan, Ethan Tremblay Caroline Colan serves as the Solar and Storage Fellow for the Governor’s Energy Office, providing project management and research support for state solar and storage programs. She has a B.A. in geography from Middlebury College.
Ethan Tremblay is an Energy Policy Analyst for the Governor’s Energy Office, focusing on a variety of renewable energy policy initiatives. He has a M. S. in Resource Economics and Policy from the University of Maine.
Image by Appolinary Kalashnikova
Achieving Maine’s Renewable Energy and Climate Goals The State of Maine has been a leader in both recognizing the potential impacts of climate change on the state and in enacting policy to mitigate and prepare for the risks associated with climate change impacts. In this session, staff from the Governor’s Energy Office will discuss how Maine’s unique and abundant renewable energy resources can be responsibly developed to position the state to achieve its clean energy and climate goals, and how a transition to a greener, cleaner grid can be achieved in an effective, affordable, and equitable manner through careful policy design. This session will include both lecture and discussion portions.
Presenters: Caroline Colan, Ethan Tremblay Caroline Colan serves as the Solar and Storage Fellow for the Governor’s Energy Office, providing project management and research support for state solar and storage programs. She has a B.A. in geography from Middlebury College.
Ethan Tremblay is an Energy Policy Analyst for the Governor’s Energy Office, focusing on a variety of renewable energy policy initiatives. He has a M. S. in Resource Economics and Policy from the University of Maine.
Image by Appolinary Kalashnikova
Monday May 16, 2022, 1:30 - 3:30 PM - Drawdown Climate Solutions: What Mainers Can Do Now
Drawdown Climate Solutions: What Mainers Can Do Now This session will describe Project Drawdown and present ways we can move toward a climate-safe planet. Learn about Climate Solutions 101, which lays out a systems approach to the climate crisis with focus on solutions that are science based, currently in use, and available to implement. Breakout rooms will enable participants to explore these solutions and discover what each of us can do personally and together to meet climate change goals.
Presenters: Bert Cohen, Bill Fackenthall Bert Cohen has been working in the area of sustainability for over 30 years. Twenty-five of these years were spent as Affiliate Assistant Professor at the University of New Hampshire in the Department of Natural Resources. During his fifty plus years of teaching he has been actively exploring how to form learning communities that support the wellbeing of the individual, enhance the health of society, and respect the integrity of our environment.
Bill Fackenthall is the course moderator and Vice President of Penobscot Valley Senior College. He has Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry from California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, California. He has a commitment to educating himself and others so we can all take appropriate actions to ensure a climate-safe place for our children and future generations.
Presenters: Bert Cohen, Bill Fackenthall Bert Cohen has been working in the area of sustainability for over 30 years. Twenty-five of these years were spent as Affiliate Assistant Professor at the University of New Hampshire in the Department of Natural Resources. During his fifty plus years of teaching he has been actively exploring how to form learning communities that support the wellbeing of the individual, enhance the health of society, and respect the integrity of our environment.
Bill Fackenthall is the course moderator and Vice President of Penobscot Valley Senior College. He has Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry from California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, California. He has a commitment to educating himself and others so we can all take appropriate actions to ensure a climate-safe place for our children and future generations.
Monday, May 9th, 1:30 - 3:30 PM - The Citizens’ Climate Lobby and Climate Change Legislation
Monday May 2, 2022, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
The Citizens’ Climate Lobby and Climate Change Legislation Maine is working hard to address our climate crisis, but with only 0.3% of U.S. carbon emissions, we need national and international policy to avert the worst effects of climate change and prevent Maine from losing its natural heritage (fisheries, winter recreation, blueberries, forests, etc.). Learn about national policy options, the current state of climate policy negotiations, and compare policy 5 options using MIT's insightful EN-ROADS Climate Simulator, which compares the effectiveness of alternative solutions.
Presenters: Peter Dugas, Gerry Gross, Theresa Hainer, Glen Koehler, Kimberlee Hammond
Peter Dugan is the Maine State Coordinator of Citizens' Climate Lobby, a grassroots volunteer organization dedicated to building the political will for effective and equitable climate policy.
Gerry Gross is a retired Speech-Language Pathologist and longtime environmental advocate. She was drawn to Citizens’ Climate Lobby because of its focus on realistic solutions to climate change its efforts to reach across party lines to find common ground who now co-chairs the Bangor chapter.
Theresa Hainer is a retired Nurse Practitioner, master organic gardener, and longtime outdoor enthusiast. She joined Citizens’ Climate Lobby after taking Glen Koehler’s class on climate change and meeting Connie Potvin and Lyn Rohman (founders of the Bangor CCL chapter). She now cochairs the Bangor chapter.
Glenn Kohler is an associate scientist with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension working on integrated pest management of tree fruits and weather-based predictive crop, pest timing and severity models. He contributes to the USDA Northeast Climate Hub and the Northeastern IPM Center Advisory and Steering Committee.
Kimberlee Hammond is a retired special education teacher, climate activist and volunteer with Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
FMI: https://bit.ly/36Tg7vY
Image by Mark Olsen - Red Blueberry Bushes at Blueberry Barrens (Kennebunk Plains Preserve)
Presenters: Peter Dugas, Gerry Gross, Theresa Hainer, Glen Koehler, Kimberlee Hammond
Peter Dugan is the Maine State Coordinator of Citizens' Climate Lobby, a grassroots volunteer organization dedicated to building the political will for effective and equitable climate policy.
Gerry Gross is a retired Speech-Language Pathologist and longtime environmental advocate. She was drawn to Citizens’ Climate Lobby because of its focus on realistic solutions to climate change its efforts to reach across party lines to find common ground who now co-chairs the Bangor chapter.
Theresa Hainer is a retired Nurse Practitioner, master organic gardener, and longtime outdoor enthusiast. She joined Citizens’ Climate Lobby after taking Glen Koehler’s class on climate change and meeting Connie Potvin and Lyn Rohman (founders of the Bangor CCL chapter). She now cochairs the Bangor chapter.
Glenn Kohler is an associate scientist with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension working on integrated pest management of tree fruits and weather-based predictive crop, pest timing and severity models. He contributes to the USDA Northeast Climate Hub and the Northeastern IPM Center Advisory and Steering Committee.
Kimberlee Hammond is a retired special education teacher, climate activist and volunteer with Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
FMI: https://bit.ly/36Tg7vY
Image by Mark Olsen - Red Blueberry Bushes at Blueberry Barrens (Kennebunk Plains Preserve)
Climate Change Conversations 2022
REGISTRATION OPEN! Water: Chemistry, Physics, and Law - Fred Bowers
A Senior College at Belfast presentation.
Thursdays, 10:00-11:00am, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12
Water constitutes 60% of human body weight. We drink it, swim and bathe in it, fish in it, and rely on it for agriculture. The animals and plants we consume require lots of it. We’ve learned how to take it from rivers and from wells, but we cannot control how the weather delivers it, and we sometimes have disputes with our neighbors and adversaries about it. People learned to dump human and industrial waste into rivers, but In the United States, it took disasters, like burning rivers, pollution, and dead fish, to finally motivate Congress to implement the 1972 Clean Water Act to protect our rivers and estuaries. In this course, we will examine the various chemical, physical, and legal challenges all humans face as we struggle to maintain a healthy supply of water, one of our fundamental needs for survival. We will also discuss water with respect to climate change.
Fred Bowers holds a Ph.D. in Forest Soils from the University of Washington in Seattle. His research work in the Tongass National Forest in Alaska necessitated understanding soil science, geology, mineralogy, chemistry, and forest ecology. Prior to that, he earned an M.S. in agronomy and soil pedology from Rutgers University. After 27 years working as a Research Scientist for the New Jersey DEP, he retired and moved to Belfast. He has taught several Senior College courses regarding soils, geology, watersheds, and landscapes of the Belfast area.
Thursdays, 10:00-11:00am, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12
Water constitutes 60% of human body weight. We drink it, swim and bathe in it, fish in it, and rely on it for agriculture. The animals and plants we consume require lots of it. We’ve learned how to take it from rivers and from wells, but we cannot control how the weather delivers it, and we sometimes have disputes with our neighbors and adversaries about it. People learned to dump human and industrial waste into rivers, but In the United States, it took disasters, like burning rivers, pollution, and dead fish, to finally motivate Congress to implement the 1972 Clean Water Act to protect our rivers and estuaries. In this course, we will examine the various chemical, physical, and legal challenges all humans face as we struggle to maintain a healthy supply of water, one of our fundamental needs for survival. We will also discuss water with respect to climate change.
Fred Bowers holds a Ph.D. in Forest Soils from the University of Washington in Seattle. His research work in the Tongass National Forest in Alaska necessitated understanding soil science, geology, mineralogy, chemistry, and forest ecology. Prior to that, he earned an M.S. in agronomy and soil pedology from Rutgers University. After 27 years working as a Research Scientist for the New Jersey DEP, he retired and moved to Belfast. He has taught several Senior College courses regarding soils, geology, watersheds, and landscapes of the Belfast area.
March 30 - Free Presentation - Marine Mammals of Maine
A USM Lewiston-Auburn Senior College Presentation:
Lynda Doughty is happy to talk with us about the work of MMoME, the fast-growing non-profit organization dedicated to marine mammal and sea turtle response, rescue, care, research and education since 2011. She is the founding Executive Director.
Born and raised in Maine, Lynda always knew she wanted to work with helping marine mammals. She has provided care for thousands of them, has opened Maine’s first seal triage center, and looks forward to providing more for marine mammals in Maine in the future.
Her work has involved conducting whale necropsies, disentanglement, population studies, marine debris projects and sterning on lobster boats. Lynda was recognized by Portland Press Herald in 2014, as one of 10 Mainers to be thankful for.
To attend, email us at laseniorcollege@gmail.com by noon on March 29. Please include your name and the name of the program for which you are registering. We will send you an email with the link on the morning of the event.
Lynda Doughty is happy to talk with us about the work of MMoME, the fast-growing non-profit organization dedicated to marine mammal and sea turtle response, rescue, care, research and education since 2011. She is the founding Executive Director.
Born and raised in Maine, Lynda always knew she wanted to work with helping marine mammals. She has provided care for thousands of them, has opened Maine’s first seal triage center, and looks forward to providing more for marine mammals in Maine in the future.
Her work has involved conducting whale necropsies, disentanglement, population studies, marine debris projects and sterning on lobster boats. Lynda was recognized by Portland Press Herald in 2014, as one of 10 Mainers to be thankful for.
To attend, email us at laseniorcollege@gmail.com by noon on March 29. Please include your name and the name of the program for which you are registering. We will send you an email with the link on the morning of the event.
March 28 - Glaciers and Sea Level Rise.
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
Session 2: "Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, Progress – Mainers Working Together"
Glaciers and Sea Level Rise This session will provide a basic overview of the global water cycle and how it is related to glaciers and sea-level rise, particularly the impacts of glacier changes on projected sea level rise, areas of uncertainty, and predicted impacts on Maine coastlines. There will be opportunities for interactive engagement throughout our session, with a space for discussion in breakout rooms at the beginning and end.
Presenters: Inga Kindsedt, Kailey Mannello, Mo Weitman, Emma Erwin Inga Kinstedt, Kailey Mannello, and Emma Erwin are graduate students in the University of Maine’s School of Earth and Climate Sciences; Mo Weitman is a recent graduate of this program. Their research areas focus on the various impacts of climate on glaciers around the world.
Image by Viktor Jakovlev
Glaciers and Sea Level Rise This session will provide a basic overview of the global water cycle and how it is related to glaciers and sea-level rise, particularly the impacts of glacier changes on projected sea level rise, areas of uncertainty, and predicted impacts on Maine coastlines. There will be opportunities for interactive engagement throughout our session, with a space for discussion in breakout rooms at the beginning and end.
Presenters: Inga Kindsedt, Kailey Mannello, Mo Weitman, Emma Erwin Inga Kinstedt, Kailey Mannello, and Emma Erwin are graduate students in the University of Maine’s School of Earth and Climate Sciences; Mo Weitman is a recent graduate of this program. Their research areas focus on the various impacts of climate on glaciers around the world.
Image by Viktor Jakovlev
March 21 - Long-term Climate Change Provides Surprising Clues about the Future.
Presented by Penobscot Valley Senior College.
Session 1: "Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, Progress – Mainers Working Together"
Long-term Climate Change Provides Surprising Clues about the Future Earth’s climate is constantly changing. Understanding natural, long-term climate change provides important insights about the future and about the changes brought about by human activities. This presentation surveys the impacts of ice ages on Maine’s forests, lakes, and streams that were shaped by the interactions of the flowing ice, topography, and the regional geology as well as on vegetation on the deglaciated landscapes.
Presenters: George L. Jacobson and Stephen A. Norton Prof. George Jacobson has been on the faculty of the UM School of Biology and Ecology, and the Climate Change Institute (CCI) since 1979 and was Director of CCI for a decade. His research has involved long-term climate change and how climate and vegetation have interacted. Prof. Stephen Norton has served on the UM faculty of Earth Sciences (now Earth & Climate Science) since 1968. His research in the field of aquatic geochemistry involves the interactions of water, humans, and geology, particularly the geochemistry of water in rivers, lakes, and soils, and the chemistry of lake sediment.
Download PDF showing the PVSC series
Image by Kalen Emsley
Long-term Climate Change Provides Surprising Clues about the Future Earth’s climate is constantly changing. Understanding natural, long-term climate change provides important insights about the future and about the changes brought about by human activities. This presentation surveys the impacts of ice ages on Maine’s forests, lakes, and streams that were shaped by the interactions of the flowing ice, topography, and the regional geology as well as on vegetation on the deglaciated landscapes.
Presenters: George L. Jacobson and Stephen A. Norton Prof. George Jacobson has been on the faculty of the UM School of Biology and Ecology, and the Climate Change Institute (CCI) since 1979 and was Director of CCI for a decade. His research has involved long-term climate change and how climate and vegetation have interacted. Prof. Stephen Norton has served on the UM faculty of Earth Sciences (now Earth & Climate Science) since 1968. His research in the field of aquatic geochemistry involves the interactions of water, humans, and geology, particularly the geochemistry of water in rivers, lakes, and soils, and the chemistry of lake sediment.
Download PDF showing the PVSC series
Image by Kalen Emsley
Ongoing Series: "Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, Progress – Mainers Working Together"
A Penobscot Valley Senior College Presention.
Mondays, March 21 – May 16, 2022 1:30 – 3:30 PM
Presented on Zoom
Are you tired of hearing endless sound bites about the world's climate change puzzle?
Penobscot Valley Senior College has drawn together leading professors, subject matter experts, and public sector leaders in Maine to help you get a good overall understanding of the crisis as well as hearing solutions and receiving guidance on what you can do to support the effort!
"Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, and Progress - Mainers Working Together."
In the sessions, we will explore:
Some of the science being relied on that demonstrates the need for action now.
Goals we must achieve to meet our climate targets, and
The likely impacts if we fail to reach these targets
A look at current and pending legislation,
Strategic planning is critical to our success, and
Economic considerations that we must weigh up as we move forward.
This timely course should have something for everyone to learn more about the many effects of Climate Change. PVSC's Vice President, Bill Fackenthall, and dedicated Curriculum Committee member Nancy Rampe, along with other curriculum members, have accomplished an amazing task in finding such notable presenters.
For the tuition cost of $30.00, PVSC's usual course fee, you will have access to nine sessions presented by twenty experts in this field!
This course is open to all current members of PVSC and other Maine Senior College Network Members.
Each presentation will be recorded, and a link to it will be sent to all registered participants shortly after each session ends. (The recordings will be available for viewing two weeks after each session.)
Registration for MSCN members:
Contact Sheila Krautkremer at PVSC (the fee will be adjusted for members of sister senior colleges before registering).
Phone: 207-659-1359 or send her an email.
Members of sister senior colleges need to provide the following information:
name,
email,
phone, and
name of your college
Download a PDF (link below)
"Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, and Progress - Mainers Working Together." Full sessions descriptions and presenter bios.
Mondays, March 21 – May 16, 2022 1:30 – 3:30 PM
Presented on Zoom
Are you tired of hearing endless sound bites about the world's climate change puzzle?
Penobscot Valley Senior College has drawn together leading professors, subject matter experts, and public sector leaders in Maine to help you get a good overall understanding of the crisis as well as hearing solutions and receiving guidance on what you can do to support the effort!
"Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, and Progress - Mainers Working Together."
In the sessions, we will explore:
Some of the science being relied on that demonstrates the need for action now.
Goals we must achieve to meet our climate targets, and
The likely impacts if we fail to reach these targets
A look at current and pending legislation,
Strategic planning is critical to our success, and
Economic considerations that we must weigh up as we move forward.
This timely course should have something for everyone to learn more about the many effects of Climate Change. PVSC's Vice President, Bill Fackenthall, and dedicated Curriculum Committee member Nancy Rampe, along with other curriculum members, have accomplished an amazing task in finding such notable presenters.
For the tuition cost of $30.00, PVSC's usual course fee, you will have access to nine sessions presented by twenty experts in this field!
This course is open to all current members of PVSC and other Maine Senior College Network Members.
Each presentation will be recorded, and a link to it will be sent to all registered participants shortly after each session ends. (The recordings will be available for viewing two weeks after each session.)
Registration for MSCN members:
Contact Sheila Krautkremer at PVSC (the fee will be adjusted for members of sister senior colleges before registering).
Phone: 207-659-1359 or send her an email.
Members of sister senior colleges need to provide the following information:
name,
email,
phone, and
name of your college
Download a PDF (link below)
"Climate Change: Problems, Solutions, and Progress - Mainers Working Together." Full sessions descriptions and presenter bios.
Current Class: The Journey from Climate Doom to Active Hope - Thomas White
An OLLI at USM presentation.
WED, 3/16 – 5/4 • 12:45 – 2:45 P.M. • $50
Class description
When you think about climate change and environmental degradation, do you experience feelings of sadness, helplessness, or anger? Do you want to leave these negative thoughts and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey to “active hope?” In this discussion-oriented class, you will explore the ideas of scientists, social scientists, and philosophers who have shown us how we could create a more hopeful story for ourselves.
Discussion with classmates
will consider this question: How can I become more active — and hopeful — in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of future generations? Class format will include online lectures and discussions.
SUGGESTED BOOKS:
Great Tide Rising: Towards Clarity and Courage in a Time of Planetary Change, Katherine Dean Moore,
ISBN 9781619027565 (e-book);
The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet, Michael E. Mann, ISBN 9781541758223 (e-book)
Thomas G. White has a PhD in developmental psychology from Stony Brook University and has taught at Gettysburg College and the Osher Institute of Lifelong Learning at the College of William and Mary. He is a summer resident of East Boothbay, Maine who draws deep inspiration from Rachel Carson’s books.
FMI: Write to olliatusm@maine.edu or call the OLLI office and leave a message at 207-780-4406.
Link to OLLI at USM below.
WED, 3/16 – 5/4 • 12:45 – 2:45 P.M. • $50
Class description
When you think about climate change and environmental degradation, do you experience feelings of sadness, helplessness, or anger? Do you want to leave these negative thoughts and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey to “active hope?” In this discussion-oriented class, you will explore the ideas of scientists, social scientists, and philosophers who have shown us how we could create a more hopeful story for ourselves.
Discussion with classmates
will consider this question: How can I become more active — and hopeful — in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of future generations? Class format will include online lectures and discussions.
SUGGESTED BOOKS:
Great Tide Rising: Towards Clarity and Courage in a Time of Planetary Change, Katherine Dean Moore,
ISBN 9781619027565 (e-book);
The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet, Michael E. Mann, ISBN 9781541758223 (e-book)
Thomas G. White has a PhD in developmental psychology from Stony Brook University and has taught at Gettysburg College and the Osher Institute of Lifelong Learning at the College of William and Mary. He is a summer resident of East Boothbay, Maine who draws deep inspiration from Rachel Carson’s books.
FMI: Write to olliatusm@maine.edu or call the OLLI office and leave a message at 207-780-4406.
Link to OLLI at USM below.
AC/DC: Electric Vehicle Charging around MDI
An Acadia SC presentation
(Event closed - held on February 18, 2022.)
Gordon Beck gave a brief overview of the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure on and around Mount Desert Island followed by a discussion of the myths around EVs in Maine, the pros and cons of EV ownership and operation, and the state of the EV charging infrastructure in Maine.
Gordon Beck manages the EV Infrastructure program for A Climate to Thrive (ACTT). Link to ACTT below!
(Event closed - held on February 18, 2022.)
Gordon Beck gave a brief overview of the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure on and around Mount Desert Island followed by a discussion of the myths around EVs in Maine, the pros and cons of EV ownership and operation, and the state of the EV charging infrastructure in Maine.
Gordon Beck manages the EV Infrastructure program for A Climate to Thrive (ACTT). Link to ACTT below!
Maine Lake Health
Note: Warmer water and more storms are not good for lake health but we can do something to help protect our waters from these changes. By leaving undisturbed natural areas and vegetation along the shoreline of our lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands, the water coming into these systems will remain cooler and cleaner.
For more information visit Visit the Lakes Environmental Association (L.E.A) webpage Climate Change and Our Lakes for more information.
Image by Kevin Crosby (Unsplashed)
For more information visit Visit the Lakes Environmental Association (L.E.A) webpage Climate Change and Our Lakes for more information.
Image by Kevin Crosby (Unsplashed)
The Gulf of Maine
Note: The Gulf of Maine is warming faster than 99 percent of the world’s oceans. As it warms and loses its subarctic characteristics, some species are moving northward and disappearing from traditional fishing grounds, while temperate species from the south invade.
Maine Climate Science Dashboard
Image by Thomas Dewey
Maine Climate Science Dashboard
Image by Thomas Dewey
Spiritual Leadership for a Climate Changed World
A USM Lewiston-Auburn SC presentation.
(Event over)
Reverend Ewing-Merrill will engage us in a conversation about the spiritual roots of the climate crisis - and the work The BTS Center is doing to advance a spiritual response.
The Reverend serves as Executive Director of The BTS Center in Portland which seeks to catalyze spiritual imagination, with enduring wisdom, for transformative faith leadership. Originally from Midcoast Maine, Allen is a graduate of the University of Maine and of Boston University School of Theology, and he is continuing his studies in a Doctor of Ministry program through Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. He has not only served as a pastor for over 20 years but has extended his work to include experience in advocacy, direct action, and faith-based organizing around issues of social justice. A favorite quote he often uses comes from environmentalist Gus Speth: "The top environmental problems are selfishness, greed, and apathy.”
Date of event:
Friday March 11, 2022, 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Link to the
(Event over)
Reverend Ewing-Merrill will engage us in a conversation about the spiritual roots of the climate crisis - and the work The BTS Center is doing to advance a spiritual response.
The Reverend serves as Executive Director of The BTS Center in Portland which seeks to catalyze spiritual imagination, with enduring wisdom, for transformative faith leadership. Originally from Midcoast Maine, Allen is a graduate of the University of Maine and of Boston University School of Theology, and he is continuing his studies in a Doctor of Ministry program through Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. He has not only served as a pastor for over 20 years but has extended his work to include experience in advocacy, direct action, and faith-based organizing around issues of social justice. A favorite quote he often uses comes from environmentalist Gus Speth: "The top environmental problems are selfishness, greed, and apathy.”
Date of event:
Friday March 11, 2022, 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Link to the
What are Climate Change Conversations?
The Maine Senior College Network recently launched an initiative called Climate Change Conversations. Colleges across the network will be offering talks and classes that touch upon different aspects of climate change. We will look at how it affects us personally, as Mainers, Americans, and world citizens.
Our What's Happening? page will add the image above to flag offerings that contribute to this ongoing conversation.
The little bird in the graphic is reminiscent of vulnerable birds such as the Piping Plover found on Maine's beaches. And, we have some good news to share regarding this tiny bird with very busy legs. Take a look at Channel 13's short news item for more information "Piping plovers have record year in Maine." (September 15th, 2021)
So, stay tuned for some thoughtful presentations from the colleges. The scale of climate change feels overwhelming, but there are many actions we can take, even if it is only to watch where we are walking on Maine's beautiful beaches.
Our What's Happening? page will add the image above to flag offerings that contribute to this ongoing conversation.
The little bird in the graphic is reminiscent of vulnerable birds such as the Piping Plover found on Maine's beaches. And, we have some good news to share regarding this tiny bird with very busy legs. Take a look at Channel 13's short news item for more information "Piping plovers have record year in Maine." (September 15th, 2021)
So, stay tuned for some thoughtful presentations from the colleges. The scale of climate change feels overwhelming, but there are many actions we can take, even if it is only to watch where we are walking on Maine's beautiful beaches.
Endangered Piping Plover
Note: Summer visitors to southern Maine beaches have a good opportunity to see piping plovers. Signs, fenced sections of beach, and nest exclosures identify areas of the beach that are being managed for nesting piping plovers.
By giving the birds space and following a few rules of beach etiquette, we can share the beach with this endangered species.
By giving the birds space and following a few rules of beach etiquette, we can share the beach with this endangered species.
What are Climate Change Conversations?
The Maine Senior College Network recently launched an initiative called Climate Change Conversations. Colleges across the network will be offering talks and classes that touch upon different aspects of climate change. We will look at how it affects us personally, as Mainers, Americans, and world citizens.
Our What's Happening? page will add the image above to flag offerings that contribute to this ongoing conversation.
The little bird in the graphic is reminiscent of vulnerable birds such as the Piping Plover found on Maine's beaches. And, we have some good news to share regarding this tiny bird with very busy legs. Take a look at Channel 13's short news item for more information "Piping plovers have record year in Maine." (September 15th, 2021)
So, stay tuned for some thoughtful presentations from the colleges. The scale of climate change feels overwhelming, but there are many actions we can take, even if it is only to watch where we are walking on Maine's beautiful beaches.
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