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Dear John,
Happy New Year!
It’s hard to believe that almost five years ago, my colleagues and I launched the Lunch & Learn program. Back then, we had no idea what the response would be or how long it would last. Now, as we begin 2025, I’m thrilled to reflect on the incredible milestone we’ve reached—more than 50,000 people have joined us to explore and learn about so many important issues together.
January is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings, which makes this the perfect, albeit bittersweet, moment to share some personal news: I’m joining the team at the national League of Conservation Voters and will be leaving MCV later this month. I’m eager to help partners across the country embrace clean energy solutions, but I’m really going to miss welcoming you each Friday.
As I often say during our programs, the Lunch & Learns have been the highlight of my week, every single week. Your support and engagement have been such a gift, and I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to connect with all of you through these conversations.
As we step into 2025, I hope you’ll join me in welcoming this new chapter for the Lunch & Learn series with open arms. Maggie Somers will continue working her magic each week, and I can’t wait to join you in the audience. Please extend your support to the Maine Conservation Voters team as they continue this tradition of inspiring and thought-provoking programming.
Here’s what’s in store for January:
Friday, January 10, 12-1 PM: No Lunch & Learn
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Friday, January 17, 12-1 PM: Kick off the 2025 Legislative Session with Maine’s Environmental Priorities Coalition
The 2025 Legislative Session has begun! Join us to learn how Maine’s Environmental Priorities Coalition (EPC) [[link removed]] is preparing for the year ahead. Nick Janzen, Partnerships Director, and Cathy Breen, Director of Government Affairs at Maine Conservation Voters/Alliance, will unveil the EPC’s Common Legislative Agenda—a slate of policy priorities designed to address the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, protect Maine’s land, water, and wildlife, and promote healthy communities. Convened and facilitated by Maine Conservation Alliance, the EPC is an inclusive statewide alliance of 40 conservation, climate action, and public health organizations working together to secure a sustainable future for Maine.
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Friday, January 24, 12-1 PM: No Lunch & Learn
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Friday, January 31, 12-1 PM: Youth Fighting for Climate Justice: Stories from the Frontlines
Around the world, young people are taking to the courts to demand action on the climate crisis. But what does it take to bring a case against governments, and what is it like to stand up as a plaintiff for the rights of future generations?
Join Phil Gregory, Of Counsel with Our Children’s Trust, and two inspiring youth plaintiffs—Rylee Brooke from Navahine v. Hawai’i Department of Transportation and Miko Vergun from Juliana v. United States — for a conversation about their landmark legal battles. They will share firsthand accounts of the challenges, victories, and personal journeys involved in fighting for climate justice. Learn how youth-led climate litigation is driving change and inspiring action in Maine, across North America, and around the globe.
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Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. I hope you enjoy these first Lunch & Learns of the year, and I look forward to seeing the program thrive in the years ahead.
— Kathleen
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© 2025 Maine Conservation Voters
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Augusta, ME 04330
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