A few weeks ago, some of you received a Care2 action alert requesting that you let General Motors know we want hybrids that will make a difference in the world and in our wallets.

We were contacted immediately by GM because of two things:

1. the number of petition signatures flooding their office from Care2's petitionsite; and,

2. to correct our oversight that they do in fact have two hybrid cars, not just SUVs, on the market [Although they have not sold very many].

So, we applaud General Motors for listening to consumers, and we applaud Care2 members for coming together to take action to the degree that it made GM take notice and respond.  Even though they contacted us to correct an oversight, clearly they recognized the volume of consumer actions required their attention.

If you ever wonder whether these giant corporations pay attention to your petitions, have no fear, you're getting their attention.

And if you missed yesterday's news reports, GM announced they are delaying plans to upgrade their existing fleet of profitable but large pickups and SUVs to instead focus on smaller fuel efficient models.  There were obviously many factors involved in that decision, but it's strong evidence they're now seeing the light.

Change often doesn't happen as fast as we'd like, but when we stand up, join together, and make our voices heard, it makes a difference.