Upcoming events.
The Election, Energy, and the Economy
Climate change poses a serious threat to the economy and environment, with impacts on businesses, communities, and citizens. With Election Day behind us, it is more imperative than ever that we prioritize business action on climate, energy, sustainability, and the economy. Based on results, federal policies and priorities on these issues will change. On the state level, a new climate action plan launching in the next few weeks will differ dramatically from initiatives advanced by the White House and Congress.
Join ClimateWork Maine on Friday, November 22 for a webinar that breaks down the federal and state election results and starts to piece together what it means for legislative and regulatory action.
Meet Our Experts
Ashley Luszczki, Government Relations Specialist
Maine State Chamber
Ashley joined the Chamber in 2023 and oversees energy and environmental policy. She previously worked for the Maine Legislature, including serving as Director of Policy for the Senate President, and in fundraising. Ashley graduated from Mount Vernon Nazarene University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.
Shawn Affolter, Vice President of Government Relations
Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES)
Shawn Affolter is Vice President of Government Relations at CRES. From 2018 to 2021, he was the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Senate Affairs at the U.S. Department of Energy. In that role, he was the agency’s principal liaison to the U.S. Senate and provided strategic advice to Departmental leadership on Congressional matters, including the Energy Act of 2020 and National Defense Authorization Act.
Since 2011, Shawn worked for U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND). In this capacity, Shawn helped advance key energy priorities including infrastructure policies, public-private research partnerships, advanced energy technology initiatives, and federal permitting reform. His work primary focused on the Senate Energy and Appropriations Committees, where he helped manage oversight and budget hearings, legislative mark-ups, agency nominations, and funding requests.
Mr. Affolter is a native of North Dakota and graduate of North Dakota State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and political science.
Moderator: Kathleen Summers-Grice, Managing Principal
Dirigo Partners
.Kathie Summers-Grice is the Managing Principal of Dirigio Partners, where she directs all the firm’s operations while also advising clients across New England and the United States. From elected officials, Fortune 500 companies, to non-profit organizations, Summers-Grice’s clients encompass a wide range of sectors and communities and have benefited immensely from her over 30 years of experience in grassroots advocacy, public relations, and political campaigns.
Throughout her career Summers-Grice has designed and implemented more than 200 grassroots campaigns locally, regionally, and nationally. These campaigns have focused on a diverse collection of issues and were developed to not only positively impact her clients’ immediate goals but address and prepare clients for their long-term aspirations. Her award-winning career has included speaking engagements, decisive campaign victories, and accolades like being a finalist for her 2016 AARP national advocacy campaign, which she was managing partner.
Her clients have included AARP, Verizon, Charter Communications, Delta Airlines, Jet Blue, Pfizer, The Pew Charitable Trust, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Summers-Grice is a well-known political strategist, advisor, and manager who has led and advised over nearly two dozen candidates in New England. She was the architect of two of the most significant upset victories in New England Republican politics this century. The first coming as chief strategist for Lincoln Chafee’s come-from-behind primary win in 2006 and the second helping lead the Republican sweep of Maine’s Senate in 2010.
Summers-Grice has been named one of the most influential people in Republican politics in Maine and has been included on ‘Campaign and Elections’ list of their top 500 influencers. Prior to founding her firm, Summers-Grice served 4 years in President George W. Bush’s administration as the Regional Director for the U.S. Department of Labor in Boston. She was born and raised in Upton, Massachusetts, attended Providence College where she graduated with both a bachelor's and master's degree. She currently resides in Cumberland, Maine with her husband Roy Grice.
Mingle & Jingle with ClimateWork Maine
Get ready to celebrate! Join ClimateWork Maine for our first annual holiday celebration at Allagash Brewing Company in Portland! This is the perfect opportunity to network, mingle, and spread some holiday cheer with like-minded individuals passionate about making a difference.
Mark your calendars and come enjoy great company, delicious brews, and festive vibes! . Don't miss out on this chance to connect and make new friends!
Let’s jingle all the way—RSVP today and be part of something special! We can't wait to celebrate with you! Sponsored by Camden National Bank.
RSVP
Speaking Words of Wisdom - Let It B-Corp Companies
B Corp companies are driven by both mission and profit, with tangible benefits for their workers, customers, community, and the environment. Business partners, consumers, employees, and investors are increasingly interested in sustainable companies. The B Corp Certification proves a company is mission-driven and values-led, and it can be a great way to attract top talent and new customers.
More Maine companies are undergoing rigorous certification to meet standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This can be a powerful differentiator in a competitive market, especially when consumers are faced with the daily impacts and anxiety of climate change. In this session, some of those companies will share why they decided to be a B Corp, and what they’ve learned in the process.
Scope It Out! – Greenhouse Gas Emissions Accounting
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accounting has emerged as an essential activity for sustainability-oriented business and individuals.
Virtual Climate Change Panel Discussion with ClimateWork Maine
Overview
Following the impactful discussions at the ClimateWork Maine Summit in May 2024, GoodGames, in partnership with ClimateWork Maine (CWM), invites you to an engaging and interactive virtual panel discussion aimed at exploring and advancing climate solutions. This session is designed to spark conversation, and drive collective strategies on climate solutions and impacts facing our communities.
REGISTER NOW
What to Expect
Join a diverse group of panelists from ClimateWork Maine and thought leaders as we delve into topics affecting our climate and economy. The discussion will be interactive, allowing participants to contribute their thoughts and questions in real time.
Panelists:
Senator Stacy Brenner, Chair, Environment & Natural Resources Committee – Maine State Legislature
Emily Green, Senior Attorney – Conservation Law Foundation
Alistair Pim, Vice President, Innovation & Partnerships – Northeast Clean Energy Council (NECEC) (transitioning to the Alliance for Climate Transition (ACT))
Key Topics:
-Climate Migration: Understanding the impact of climate refugees on communities
-Equity: Addressing health and safety disparities in vulnerable communities
-Energy Security: Overcoming opposition to renewable energy and electricity transmission
-Economic & Workforce Development: Creating sustainable jobs and investing in rural communities
-Natural Resources: Evaluating the effects of climate change on farms, forests, and fisheries
-Policy: Exploring regulatory measures like carbon pricing to incentivize climate action
-Technology: Preparing for the increased demand for AI, electric vehicles, and energy storage
-Tourism: Adapting seasonal tourism to unpredictable weather patterns
Why Attend?
-Engage in Real-Time Discussions: Share your thoughts and questions with experts and fellow attendees
-Contribute to Future Actions: Your input will help shape the future of climate solutions and community strategies
-Collaborate and Network: Connect with like-minded individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference
Summer Social Networking Event at Orange Bike Brewing
You won't want to miss our upcoming Summer Social Networking event!
Mark your calendars for Monday, July 8th and join us from 5pm to 7pm at Orange Bike Brewing. Whether you're looking to meet potential partners, discover new business opportunities, or simply enjoy some great company, this event has something for everyone. Enjoy delicious local brews as you mingle with the ClimateWork Maine community.
Don't miss out - RSVP now and we'll see you there
2024 Summit on Maine's Economy and Climate Change
Join us for the 2nd Annual Summit on Climate Change and Maine's Economy.
Climate change is not just a distant issue; it's impacting every region of Maine, right now. But what does that mean for your business? How will you adapt? Are we collectively ready to take on this challenge?
Our summit brings together industry experts, thought leaders, and passionate individuals like yourself, all committed to finding innovative solutions. Together, we'll explore how climate change will reshape Maine's economy and provide actionable strategies for sustainable growth.
On Thin Ice - The Economic Impact of Climate Change on Winter
The $887 billion outdoor recreation industry, with its 7.6 million jobs, is threatened by climate change, with warmer weather, unpredictable snowpack, and devasting storms and floods. Maine small businesses in particular depend on consistent accessibility and use of forests, rivers and lakes, mountains, trails, and the hunting, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and other recreational activities connected to our natural resources. According to Maine’s Climate Future 2020, “winter is Maine’s fastest changing season, and this has a clear impact on Maine’s important winter recreation season and associated economic benefits. Controlling greenhouse gas emissions today determines the extent to which people can still be skiing in Maine tomorrow.”
$25 per person, ClimateWork Maine Members FREE REGISTER NOW
Speakers:
Shay Bellas, Founder & CEO, NaviTour
Dr. Elizabeth A Burakowski, Research Assistant Professor, Earth Systems Research Center & Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans, and Space, University of New Hampshire
Jenny Kordick, Executive Director, Maine Outdoor Brands
Carolann Ouellette, Director, Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, Maine Department of Economic & Community Development
Additional facts:
Outdoor recreation made up 3.9% of Maine’s economy, making Maine the sixth state in the country in the value outdoor recreation adds to a state’s economy.
32,000 people work in the outdoor industry in Maine, including 2,184 added jobs in 2022, representing a 7% increase from 2021
Manufacturing of outdoor recreation gear and equipment contributed $271 million and retail contributed nearly $850 million to Maine’s economy
Snow activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling contributed $68 million, a 35% increase over 2021
Speakers will discuss the importance of a stable and predictable climate to their businesses, particularly those that contribute to Maine’s winter recreation economy.
Building A Clean Energy Economy featuring US Dept of Energy
This is your opportunity to hear from senior officials from the U.S. Department of Energy working to build a clean energy economy that benefits all Mainers. Learn about the latest federal programs available to your businesses, homes, and facilities and how to access key energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation assistance and investment. There will be plenty of time to ask questions in this unique session with high-level experts on top energy issues.
Cost: FREE for CWM Members, $25.00 for non-members
REGISTER NOW
Experts from US Dept of Energy
Spencer Thibodeau, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs
Spencer Thibodeau is an attorney and public servant, practicing law in the real estate practice group of the Portland, Maine based law firm of Verrill Dana, LLP for eight years.
In addition to his legal practice, Spencer served as a Portland, Maine City Councilor for nearly six years, where he chaired the Housing And Economic Development Committee (2021) and Sustainability and Transportation Committee (2017-2020). In the summer of 2020, Spencer was selected to be the Maine Senior Advisor to the Biden-Harris Presidential campaign. Spencer has served on a number of boards and committees, including the United Way of Greater Portland and the Equity Subcommittee of the Maine Climate Council. Spencer also served as a member of Maine Governor Janet T. Mills' transition team in 2019.
Spencer is a proud graduate of Fairfield University and Northeastern University School of Law and when Spencer is not in the office, he can be found running, enjoying the Maine outdoors, or visiting one of Portland, Maine's many restaurants.
Dr. Zack Valdez, Chief of Staff, Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains
Prior to joining the Manufacturing Energy Supply Chain Office as Chief of Staff, Zack Valdez developed strategy for diversity, equity, inclusion, and future workforce policy at the Office of Advanced Manufacturing within the National Institutes of Standards and Technology. Dr. Valdez has extensive experience with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math outreach and engagement with national non-profits. He is also an alumni of the prestigious American Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology Policy Fellowship, where he served on the Energy and National Resources Committee of the U.S. Senate. Zack received his academic degrees in his native state of Texas with a Ph.D. from Baylor University and Engineering and Physics B.S. degrees from St. Mary’s University.
Rebecca Isacowitz, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Rebecca Isacowitz is the Deputy Chief of Staff for DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). She comes with over a decade of private sector, nonprofit, and government experience in the energy efficiency and renewable energy sector. She previously served as Deputy Secretary for Energy & Environment with the Executive Chamber for the State of New York, where she supported the tactical development and operationalization of the State’s 14 energy and environmental agencies, and advanced Corporate Strategy initiates with the New York Power Authority in a directorship role. Rebecca also served in various government roles for the City of New York, most recently as Deputy Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Citywide Administrative Services’ Division of Energy Management. In that role she created and executed crosscutting projects to meet citywide goals on greenhouse gas emissions across 80+ city agency partners in 250M+ sq. ft. While with the City Parks Department she wrote and implemented energy, climate, resiliency, and emergency action plans for vulnerable areas across New York City, post Superstorm Sandy. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Spanish from Lehigh University.
Green Rush v. Green Wash - Sharing Stories About Climate & Sustainability
From local startups to global corporations, how does one launch a green idea? What is the best way to promote companies’ climate-friendly products, projects, and services? How can businesses share their stories of sustainability and climate-action plans. This is a Zoom Webinar. Please bring your questions and have a discussion with the experts.
FREE for ClimateWork Maine Members. $15 for Non-Members
Buried Treasure - Where to Find $$ For Climate Projects & Products
Business consultants will not only show you where the money is for climate projects and programs, but how to access public and private financial and investment resources and who to turn to for help. This is a Zoom Webinar. Please bring your questions and have a discussion with the experts.
FREE for ClimateWork Maine Members. $15 for Non-Members
Starting from Scratch - Sustainability Strategic Planning
An expert crew of sustainability directors will discuss short- and long-term strategies to reduce carbon, water, and waste; save money and energy; and incorporate sustainability principles and strategies into companies’ operations, buildings, and/or fleets, no matter the type, size, or geographic location of the business. This is a Zoom Webinar. Please bring your questions and have a discussion with the experts.
FREE for ClimateWork Maine Members, $15 for Non-Members
How Federal Climate Law Can Help Your Business
HOW NEW FEDERAL CLIMATE LAW CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) provides the largest climate investment in US history, with nearly $370 billion in tax credits, rebates, and other programs intended to transition people and businesses from fossil fuel fired cars and buildings to electric vehicles and heat pumps and push utilities to more wind and solar energy.