You are invited to three 350 Montana events in three different communities this week.

Tonight, November 15 at 7 p.m. at the Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main, 350 Montana is discussing two reports it commissioned on our deteriorating climate and the future of clean energy in Montana. We are also welcoming Becky Weed and Dave Tyler, who will discuss their company, Thirteen Mile Lamb & Wool Company, and the move to renewable energy.

Tomorrow night, November 16, at 7 p.m. at the Cedar Creek Lodge, 930 Second Avenue West, in Columbia Falls, Climate Smart Glacier County is presenting a forum, “Envisioning Montana’s Clean Energy Future.” Jacqueline Sussman will present a summary of her 350 Montana report. Other forum panelists include:

• David Bopp, Flathead Electric Cooperative
• Paul Siblerud, ViZn Energy
• Paul McKenzie, F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber – Biomass Cogeneration
• Diane Yarus, Airworks Heating and Cooling Solutions
• Andrew Valainis, Montana Renewable Energy Association
• Jeff Arcel, Aeon Renewable Energy
• Barbara Calm, Calm Veterinary Clinic (installed rooftop solar for business in 2008

On Saturday, November 18, 7 p.m., 350 Montana and Shut It Down — Climate Direct Action are presenting a Climate Mock Trial in the University Theater on the campus of the University of Montana. Denied by the state the opportunity to present a “necessity defense” in his trial for shutting off a tar sands oil valve, Leonard Higgins will present his climate change case to the Court of Public Opinion. The defense is prepared to call, for the defense of the planet, the following expert witnesses: University of Montana climate scientist Professor Steve Running, civil disobedience expert Tom Hastings, and climate change and US security expert Andrew Holland. With presiding judge (and Missoula attorney) Bob Gentry, defense attorney Arnold Schroder, prosecutor (and Missoula attorney) Summer Nelson, and Court Clerk, your truly Jeff Smith, and valve turners Michael Foster and Ken Ward. And YOU get to be the Jury!

I hope you can join us for one or more of these events.

Jeff Smith, co-chair, 350 Montana