This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

"We all breathe the same air. There is no Democratic air. There is no Republican air." With these emphatic words, on June 13, Rep. Mia Love accepted the Climate Leadership Award from the Citizens' Climate Lobby in Washington, D.C. I was privileged to observe as our nonpartisan, grass roots organization gave her the award for her "extraordinary leadership and bold commitment to environmental stewardship." Rep. Love works with 21 Republicans and 21 Democrats in the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus to find ways to stop damaging the climate.

This is the good news worthy of being reported in our newspapers and on the evening news. Love's quiet courage gives us hope in a world of news that can discourage us from taking action.

Despite heated and conflicting opinions about the best solutions to continued rising temperatures, Love has done what is best for her constituents, her children and the earth. She deserves not only your respect, but also a note or call of gratitude.

David Folland, M.D.

Sandy