Global Warming In the News

Hundreds of people are expected at a rally Saturday on the University of Michigan campus to voice their concerns about global warming.

The rally will draw representatives of environmental, faith-based, university and community organizations, and is part of Step It Up 2007, a national movement of about 1,200 similar rallies across the country. The goal is to call on Congress to start a plan that would reduce global warming pollution, said Abby Rubley, field director of Environment Michigan in Ann Arbor.

"We're looking for the citizens of Ann Arbor to come out and let our local, state and federally elected officials know we are serious about climate change and are taking action,'' said Rubley. "The time has come for Michigan to lead the way.''

Among the public officials expected to attend are Michigan Congressman John Dingell. The Dearborn Democrat is chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is charged with writing legislation to reduce the rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Several other public officials are expected at the event, which will include music and other entertainment as well as the speakers.

The rally will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at Ingalls Mall between Burton Memorial Tower and the Michigan League.

For more information, log on to www.stepitup2007.org.