Inspiring the next generation: How to lead an effective, grassroots environmental campaign in Washington state.

Polarization is at an all-time high in the United States. But contrary to popular belief, Americans are polarized not so much in their policy preferences as in their feelings toward their political opponents: To an unprecedented degree, Republicans and Democrats simply do not like one another. No surprise that these deeply held negative feelings are central to the recent (also unprecedented) plunge in congressional productivity. The past three Congresses have gotten less done than any since scholars began measuring congressional productivity. In Why Washington Won’t Work, Marc J. Hetherington and Thomas J. Rudolph argue that a contemporary crisis of trust—people whose party is out of power have almost no trust in a government run by the other side—has deadlocked Congress. On most issues, party leaders can convince their own party to support their positions. In order to pass legislation, however, they must also create consensus by persuading some portion of the opposing party to trust in their vision for the future. Without trust, consensus fails to develop and compromise does not occur. Up until recently, such trust could still usually be found among the opposition, but not anymore. Political trust, the authors show, is far from a stable characteristic. It’s actually highly variable and contingent on a variety of factors, including whether one’s party is in control, which part of the government one is dealing with, and which policies or events are most salient at the moment. Political trust increases, for example, when the public is concerned with foreign policy—as in times of war—and it decreases in periods of weak economic performance. Hetherington and Rudolph do offer some suggestions about steps politicians and the public might take to increase political trust. Ultimately, however, they conclude that it is unlikely levels of political trust will significantly increase unless foreign concerns come to dominate and the economy is consistently strong.

In 'Seaport in Virginia: George Washington's Alexandria,' Gay Montague Moore delves into the historical significance of Alexandria as a bustling seaport during George Washington's time. With meticulous attention to detail, Moore paints a vivid picture of the thriving maritime industry and the interplay between politics and commerce in the bustling colonial town. Through a combination of primary sources and personal anecdotes, the author captures the essence of Alexandria's seafaring past with a literary style that is both engaging and informative, making it a valuable resource for history enthusiasts and scholars alike. Moore's exploration of the social and economic dynamics of the era provides a rich tapestry of colonial life, offering readers a unique glimpse into the world of George Washington and his contemporaries. With its scholarly approach and compelling narrative, 'Seaport in Virginia' is an essential read for anyone interested in early American history and the vibrant port city that played a pivotal role in shaping the young nation.

This guidebook reveals the best hiking trails in Washington that are dog friendly. Throughout are full-color maps and photos, helpful tips and sidebars, and tailored hike specs for leash requirements. Also included is information about dog packing and preparation before you hit the trail.