Most individuals and the public at large have a natural interest in and curiosity about atmospheric behavior, on both weather and climate time scales. The recent large El Nino of 1997-98, and all of the attendant hoopla, both reflected and increased this widespread interest. Because of their basic climate-related missions, and because of prior and ongoing research in this arena, RCC personnel were called upon to give presentations on the subject to a wide variety of audiences. These factors, along with the presence of significant signals throughout the West, Alaska, and the Pacific Islands, fed a demand at the Western Regional Climate Center for speakers and presentations. Of particular note, major statewide public forums were organized in Idaho (October 29, by the Idaho state climate office) and in Montana (December 11, by the National Weather Service and state drought officials). These were well attended and heavily publicized before and after. They consisted of 90 minute presentations, followed by another 60-90 minutes of audience interaction. Remarkably, audience attrition was nearly zero. This allowed sufficient time to show larger perspectives, discuss connections to other climate issues, and illustrate relationships to specific economic sectors. Gaps and imperfections in understanding were addressed in a straightforward manner. The notion that we can engage in prudent planning without knowing for certain what the future will bring was emphasized. It is essential for its continued survival that the earth's human population develop a more sustainable long-term relationship with its environment. Acquiring and using knowledge of all aspects of how our physical environment operates is a crucial component of this process. This thought was used to provide a framework for the overall discussion, and the approach appears to resonate well with the public