OFFICE OF LT. GOV. BARBARA O'BRIEN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, April 18, 2008

CONTACT:    

Ellen Dumm, 303 866-6361 (office) or 303 829-0194 (cell)

Lt. Gov. O'Brien Challenges High School Students to be Global Climate Change Leaders

Ft. Collins -- Lt. Gov. Barbara O'Brien today challenged hundreds of high school students from around the country to become leaders on global climate issues. More than 400 students were in attendance at the 2nd Global Climate Change Conference at Rocky Mountain High School in Ft. Collins.  The goal of the conference is to educate, inspire and empower students to be informed about global climate issues.

Lt. Gov. O'Brien told the students that Colorado is home to the first North American factory of Vestas, a Danish wind blade manufacturer in Windsor and that Conoco-Phillips will headquarter its research for alternative energy in Louisville.

"What we do in Colorado has impacts around the world. As you acquire the technical skills with math, science, engineering and technology, you will be the next generation of leaders to ensure we move forward in a sustainable way," said Lt. Gov. O'Brien.

She reiterated the Ritter administration¿s commitment to a new energy economy and reversing the effects of climate change.

"Whether you are a future entrepreneur, researcher or community leader, there is a role for you in this challenge we face," Lt. Gov. O'Brien told the students.