This weekend, some folks with TC 350 headed out to the Dune Climb at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to help raise awareness about a very important number for Michigan and the rest of the world. It’s set to the music of Getdown to 350 by May Erlewine. The song will probably tell you all you need to know, but if not, check the info below the video!

What is 350?

350 is simply the number of parts per million that scientists have identified as the safe upper limit for carbon dioxide (CO2) in our atmosphere. For all of human history until about 200 years ago, our atmosphere contained 275 parts per million of carbon dioxide. Right now, we’re pushing 400 and all that CO2 is trapping heat, melting glaciers, contributing to the spread of disease and in general, screwing things up to a point where we could very well create our own demise. But 350 is more than a number–it’s a symbol of where we need to head as a planet. You can get much more information at 350.org (including this nifty animation that makes it simple).

Right now, the 350 movement is focusing on a planetary day of action on October 24, 2009 to send a clear message to world leaders that the solutions to climate change must be equitable, grounded in science and meet the scale of the crisis. Have a look at the October 24 map to see some of the events that are slated for Michigan.

Prices are reasonable for this unique family outing with adult fare runs $33.00, children 6-12 are $10 and under 5 are free. Group rates are also available; contact them for more detailed information. The ticket office is located at 827 Main St. just east of the Frankfort downtown district.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise can take reservations weeks or months in advance, or 5 minutes before the boat leaves the dock, depending on space available. Refreshments are available for purchase or passengers can bring their own. Alcohol is not allowed unless a large group has reserved the boat and has hired a caterer with a liquor license.

For more information visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes Boat Cruise website, or call them for reservations toll-free (888) 469-4696 or locally at (231) 352-8102.

Here’s a video from the ribbon cutting ceremony:

This is the first duo album Seth and May have released under their real, full names: Samuel Seth Bernard and May Erlewine. This could be a metaphor for what this album is made of. The album has 12 original songs performed by a core band of May on vocals, acoustic guitar, violin, viola, piano, organ, dulcimer and banjo, Seth with lap steel, piano, keyboard, mandolin, tenor sax and electric guitar, Dominic Suchyta on electric and upright bass and Mike Shimmin playing drums and percussion.

Encouragement is one of the main ingredients and underlying themes in this album. The album is a synthesis of the music, grass roots activism, and love that Seth and May have been developing on their own, together and with their many communities.

Sunday, March 29 Release at InsideOut Gallery

There will also be a CD Release event at InsideOut Gallery in Traverse City on Sunday, March 29th. For this special release event Seth & May will be accompanied by Joshua Davis, (vocals, guitar), Dominic Suchyta (electric and upright bass), and Mike Shimmin (drums, percussion). Tickets are $12 in advance and are available at Borders Books, Oryana, Cuppa’ Joe, Patisserie Amie & InsideOut Gallery. Tickets are $15 at the door. Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 7. For more Information please call the InsideOut Gallery at 231-929-3254.

There will also be a show at the Old Art Building in Leland on Friday, March 27th at 7:30 PM, and you can get a poster with more shows around the state right here.

Visit earthworkmusic.com for more information on Seth Bernard and May Erlewine. Here’s a video from their last show at the Art Building (click the HQ link):

Photo: Welcome Back: Samuel Seth Bernard & May Erlewine by Andy McFarlane