Letter to the Editor: Always A Sad Goodbye When Dr. Roger Kuhns Leaves Town

It was with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to Roger after Wednesday night’s talk (April 27) at Björklunden, sponsored by the Climate Change Coalition of Door County (CCCDC). It is an unfortunate “twist of fate” that he has been forced to leave his beloved county for work reasons, when his expertise is much needed right here in his own backyard.

In the two weeks he was here, which included Earth Week, Roger worked tirelessly educating local residents and students, giving talks and presentations, and playing and recording music. In Wednesday evening’s talk on sustainability, he emphasized the critical importance of community. Roger practices what he preaches and embodies what it means to be an active and concerned citizen.

Dr. Kuhns also talked about the need for us to adapt to change, while planning for future generations. He encouraged us to pursue knowledge without fear and, using scientific research as the basis for his arguments, emphasized that although we cannot stop some of the adverse impacts of climate change, we can mitigate its effects if we act now and adapt accordingly. He identified the two biggest obstacles the human race collectively faces going forward as: 1) increases in population, and 2) depletion of natural resources. He used humor to encourage us to be optimistic and proved to us with examples that, “Optimism drives innovation.”

Bon voyage, Roger, and I look forward to seeing you upon your earliest return. I hope one day soon Door County will find a way to get you back permanently.

Susan Kennedy, MA, MTA, Sustainable Tourism Specialist

Baileys Harbor, Wis.