Beyond 2000: Sustaining Ourselves

by Geoff Bugbee

I don't think Y2K is primarily a technical problem. It's a problem with the way our society is structured, and how dependent we are on the technological and economic infrastructures that we live in. If we weren't so dependent, hey, the computers could crash and it wouldn't be any big deal. My perspective, being a social change person, is to use this as an opportunity to get ourselves more in touch with each other, with what is really important, and how the world needs to be in order to function well. Many of the things we need to do just to survive Y2K will be exactly those things that we have been telling ourselves and each other that we were supposed to be doing all along."

ÑTom Atlee, speaking in Ukiah

The MEC and KZYXandZ radio co-sponsored a Y2K Community Response Fair on March 6 at the Todd Grove Clubhouse in Ukiah. The all-day event included panel discussions and presentations where people were able to participate in lively dialogues about their concerns and expectations of what the year 2000 will bring.

The fair also featured a delicious home-cooked feast, poetry, live music and even dancing. A warm, neighborly atmosphere prevailed for an event centered on a potential disaster unlike anything Mendocino CountyÑor anywhere elseÑhas ever experienced.

"The focus is on community organizing," said event organizer Amanda Bellerby. "We want to give people the space and time to talk about Y2K with their neighbors. We might really need each other if things get tough, and it's a whole lot easier getting to know people now, before problems arise, than in the midst of a crisis. The only thing we know for sure about this Y2K computer problem is that it'll happen, to some degree or another. We will feel mighty stupid if it turns out to be bad and we didn't prepare."

Panel speakers included Gary Hudson from the Sheriff's Department, Rick Paige from Mendocino Emergency Services, Pat Burnstad from the Red Cross, Judy Judd from the Community Center, and Todd Detzel, computer expert.

Other panels hosted speakers who have pro-active solutions for problems that Y2K could manifest. They included Doug Pratt from Real Goods, Derek Dahlen, community gardens organizer, and Chris McCormick from Ukiah Hours Community Currency.

A highlight of the day was an inspiring talk by Tom Atlee, co-editor of AwakeningÑThe Upside of Y2K. The book is available in stores and at the MEC; check it out, it is an eye-opener.

The organizing process has begun. At the end of the day, seven new Y2K community groups had formed by geographical area. Check the contacts in "What You Can Do" below; if there isn't a group near you, start one! Every positive step we take in the coming months will only make our lives and communities better.

"Because really, when you get down to it, aren't we simply doing the same thing we've always doneÑsecuring food, water, shelter, health, and a future for our children and the precious lives on the planet?"

ÑCynthia Beal, from AwakeningÑThe Upside of Y2K

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Phone the contact person in your area to join an established Y2K group: Ukiah: the MEC, 468-1660; Mendocino Coast: Janet Hope deVries, 937-3529; Potter Valley: Geoff Bugbee, 743-1633; Willits: Marigold Klein, 459-6325; Covelo: Estelle Palley, 983-6562; Redwood Valley: Ellen Faulkner, 485-5867; Anderson Valley: Chris McCormick, 895-3832. If there isn't a group where you live, call or stop by the MEC.

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Last Update: 5/4/99