Lean But Still Green

 Successful economic recovery isn’t for faint of heart. It’s hard. It’s scary. It can hurt. But consider the alternatives.

     In the face of a worldwide financial fiasco, the NEC is preparing for lean times ahead. We’re strategically hunkering down to protect our most vital resources and programs. We intend to remain resilient and emerge from this (hopefully brief) crisis strong and responsive.

    As administrative director and acting executive director, I’m overseeing cutbacks many areas. But we know our most important program is the monthly publication and distribution of ECONEWS. This is how we educate, agitate and engage you, our members and fellow stewards of the planet; so we’ve kept our newsletter off of the economic chopping block. In fact, our recovery includes expanding distribution, enhancing the format and making it electronically available.

    Another place we’re digging in our heels and directing our resources is the Klamath River. As Greg King writes, it’s imperative that the NEC stay present and advocate for the river and for the salmon as the dam deal is negotiated.

    The decision to sell our lot on 9th Street in Arcata is bittersweet because the location holds so many memories. But it’s not economically responsible to hold onto the property. We’re embracing our new home here at 1465 G St., and a fantastic force of volunteers has been transforming the location from obscure to fabulous. Have you been for a visit yet?

    In fact, another facet of our economic strategy is to rent office space in our lovely G Street home. Sharing resources makes environmental sense, and the synergy created will enrich us all.

   Now, when you walk in the front door, you’ll find your NEC staff hard at work, all together in our great room. Come on in and browse our library, write your letters to the lawmakers and join us for a cup of coffee or tea.

   If you enter through the garden path, you’ll find yourself in our Eco-Boutique! We’re rebuilding our inventory, and you’ll find many old favorites at sale prices.

    Economic recovery is hard, but it’s also an opportunity for creativity, and the result can be fun.  For example, we’re hosting Arts! Arcata every month. This month we have live music with Dogbone. (See page 18 for more) Starting in January, we’ll be having a monthly movie night. Spring will bring NEC garden parties.

    We welcome your suggestions for increasing the vitality of your NEC, and as always we encourage and welcome volunteers.