Saturday, November 30, 2013

Reflection on Thanksgiving



The Defining and Enabling Experience of Our “Civilization” -- Genocide and THE THANKSGIVING MYTH by S. Brian Willson 

“This day forth shall be a day of celebration and thanksgiving for subduing the Pequots,” read Massachusetts Bay Governor John Winthrop's proclamation. Thanksgiving Day was born. Few Pequots survived.

Awesome!



Etna erupting on November 17, 2013 with full moon overhead. Image by Dr. Behncke/Flicker.


A fireworks display by nature itself.

Thursday, November 28, 2013

"We're working on that..." by Donna the Buffalo

"There is a growing cross section of good people, crossing all lines of race, border, religion and economics that will triumph. Their triumph will have no loser, for the victory is peace."

Don't get down - get up!  Thanks Jeb for this hopeful song! And Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!



Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Information on Drones



What is a drone?
A drone, or “unmanned aerial vehicle” (UAV), is an unmanned aircraft that can be piloted remotely. Drones vary in size and weight and can be used for surveillance and attacks.

Where is the U.S. sending drones?
The U.S. uses drones primarily in Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia, but has also used drones in military campaigns in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya.

What damage can a drone do? Signature strikes & double taps
Depending on the model of the drone, a drone such as a Reaper can carry thousands of pounds of payloads which result in high collateral damage. Predator drones have a less of a collateral impact, but the Hellfire missiles are lethal for the target.

Signature strikes occur when targets are killed based on suspicion. If someone appears to be engaging in “suspicious behavior,” such as associating with a “suspected militant,” carrying a weapon. Any behavior the U.S. deems “suspicious” can justify a signature strike.

A “double tap” occurs when a second drone strike follows the initial strike which results in the murder of those who may have rushed to the scene to understand what has happened, search for survivors, or assist the injured.

Who is the U.S. targeting?
The U.S. targets militants and suspected militants, especially al-Qaeda and its affiliates. However, the U.S.’ targets reflect a major problem of racial profiling, resulting in the murder of many innocent or low-level affiliates who are primarily young Muslim men.

Who approves the kill list?
CIA director John Brennan passes the list to President Obama who must approve every drone strike.

How accurate are drone strikes?
The accuracy rate for hitting the intended target is approximately 1.5-2%. The Bureau of Investigative Journalism has estimated that 98% of victims of drone strikes are “collateral damage,” or in more human terms, civilians, children, or suspected militants who are either minor, low-level affiliates or whose involvement with militants has never been proven.  

How many casualties have there been?
The Bureau of Investigative Journalism estimates that nearly 4,000 total casualties have resulted from U.S. drone strikes in Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia. As many as 954 have been civilians, and as many as 225 have been children. The high number of casualties includes anyone who the U.S. deems suspicious, which could mean they were driving suspected militants, attending a funeral of a suspected militant, or carrying a weapon.

Have there been American citizens killed by drone strikes?
Four American citizens have been killed by drone strikes. Anwar al-Awlaki, who was affiliated with al-Qaeda, and Samir Khan, were killed by a strike in 2011. A second strike killed al-Awlaki’s innocent 17-year-old son. In 2002, Ahmed Hijazi was killed. All of these victims were American citizens living in Yemen.

Are drone strikes a violation of international law?
The United Nations has stated that the U.S. use of drone strikes in Pakistan violates international law and is a threat to human rights not only because of the mass casualties drones strikes cause but also because the Pakistani government does not consent with the drone strikes. The UN Special Rapporteur on Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights, Ben Emmerson, released a statement expressing that the Government of Pakistan “considers US drone strikes to be counter-productive, contrary to international law, and a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Authorization for the Use of Military Force, passed by U.S. Congress in 2001 after the 9/11 attacks, legally empowers the president to “use all necessary and appropriate force” to pursue those responsible for acts of terrorism.

Preemptive self-defense violates international law, which states that nations may defend themselves against an immediate attack, but signature strikes and double taps do not attack those who pose an immediate threat. Rather, signature strikes target individuals who fit a profile, and double taps eliminate rescuers and other innocent people who rush to the scene of the first attack.

International human rights law does not allow the use of Hellfire missiles because their heavy fire power exceeds the limits of fire power allowed for law enforcement purposes, according to the American Society of International Law.

Do drones make us safer?
The justification for drone strikes is that they target “terrorists” and protect Americans and the citizens on the ground, when in reality these attacks result in high casualties, tarnish the United States’ reputation, and fuel retaliation. Drone strikes violate national sovereignty, and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly condemned the use of drone strikes in Pakistan. In general drones foster anti-American sentiment abroad and threaten our national security as well as the safety of those living in Yemen, Pakistan, and Somalia.

Who are the Unmanned Systems Caucus?
The Unmanned Systems Caucus supports the rapid development, acquisition, and use of drones. The representatives that comprise the caucus are listed below:

Co-Chairs
Buck McKeon (CA-25)
Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Members:
Rob Bishop (UT-1)
Anne Marie Buerkle (NY-25)
Robert Brady (PA-1)
Mo Brooks (AL-5)
Madeleine Bordallo (Guam)
Larry Bucshon (IN-6)
Ken Calvert (CA-44)
André Carson (IN-7)
Tom Cole (OK-4)
Mike Conaway (TX-11)
Gerald Connolly (VA-11)
Joe Courtney (CT-2)
Kevin Cramer (ND-At-Large)
Ander Crenshaw (FL-4)
Blake Farenthold (TX-27)
Randy J. Forbes (VA-4)
Trent Franks (AZ-2)
Paul Gosar (AZ-1)
Gene Green (TX-29)
Colleen Hanabusa (HI-1)
Richard Hanna (NY-24)
Andy Harris (NY-24)
Vicky Hartzler (MO-4)
Joe Heck (NV-3)
Duncan Hunter (CA-52)
Darrell Issa (CA-49)
Lynn Jenkins (KS-2)
William Keating (MA-10)
Doug Lamborn (CO-5)
Frank LoBiondo (NJ-2)
Frank Lucas (OK-03)
Kevin McCarthy (CA-22)
Michael T. McCaul (TX-10)
Candice Miller (MI-10)
Pete Olson (TX-22)
Steven Palazzo (MS-04)
Steve Pearce (NM-02)
Mike Pompeo (KS-4)
Scott Rigell (VA-4)
Dana Rohrabacher (CA-46)
Thomas Rooney (FL-16)
Loretta Sanchez (CA-47)
Mike Simpson (ID-2)
David Schweikert (AZ-6)
Michael R. Turner (OH-3)
Joe Wilson (SC-2)
Robert J. Wittman (VA-1)
Don Young (AK-At-Large)

Does the U.S. use drones domestically?
Domestic drone use is currently limited to surveillance along the nation’s borders and within a few states, such as Texas and Florida. In February of 2013, the U.S. sent surveillance drones into Mexico to gather information about drug trafficking. The restrictions currently in place are due to concerns about air safety and infringement of  privacy. The push for drone use within the United States is strong, and drones manufacturers are considering the option of drones that would fire rubber bullets and spray tear gas to assist law enforcement.

How does drone surveillance violate the Fourth Amendment?
Because surveillance drones have thermal and x ray imaging capabilities, they are extremely pervasive. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures, and surveillance drone technology violates those rights.

Is there a pro-drone lobby?
The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is the largest pro-drone lobby. Their membership exceeds 7,500, and their vision, as listed on their website, reads, “To improve humanity by enabling the global use of robotic technology in everyday lives.” They function to organize conventions, fund student competitions that encourage an interest in robotics and technology, and release publications that concern drone technology. Their work emphasizes the technological significance of drones but fails to mention the near 4,000 civilian casualties of drone wars.

Who are the top drones manufacturers?
Top profiteers of the U.S.'s billions spent on drones include Boeing, General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, AeroVironment, Prox Dynamics AS, Denel Dynamics, SAIC, Israeli Aerospace Industries, Textron, General Dynamics, DJI.

Predator and Reaper drones are built by San Diego-based General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a sister company to General Atomics. The drone factory is located about 25 miles northeast from the main headquarters in Poway, CA. Between 1998-2003 General Atomics Aeronautical Systems had won over $980,000,000 in defense contracts. General Atomics is a leading company in a multitude of high-tech resources giving generously to both Democrats and Republicans. In 2008, the General Atomics PAC spent $173,800 contributing to the Democrats and $211,300 to the Republicans.

According to The San Diego Union-Tribune article "Prowling for Profit," the Predator and Reaper generally cost $4 million to $12 million each. The U.S. Defense Appropriations FY2010 key investments included $489 million for 24 new Reaper drones.The upcoming U.S. Defense Appropriations FY2011 includes: $2.2 billion for procurement of Predator-class aircraft to increase the Combat Air Patrols (CAPs) available to deployed forces from 37 to 65 by 2013; and doubling procurement of the MQ-9 Reaper over the next few years.

What Senate Committees deal with the drones issue?
The Senate Judiciary Committee consists of 18 members who have jurisdiction over issues of federal criminal law in addition to issues of human rights, immigration law, intellectual property rights, antitrust law, and internet privacy. The Senate Judiciary Committee handles issues of drone policy and laws.

What is President Obama’s stance on drone strikes?
President Obama has defended the controversial use of drone strikes. He stated in his address on May 23, 2013, on U.S. drone and counterterror policy that drones are an essential component of national security. However, his administration continually stresses the effectiveness of the program, when, in reality, drones have an accuracy rate of 1.5-2%, have resulted in a few thousand civilian casualties, and serve to radicalize drone strike survivors against the United States.

Israel and drones
As far back as 1982 Israel used drones against Syria. In the early nineties Israelis drones were us in the Kosovo campaign. The Israeli Air Force invades the skies over Lebanon and patrols occupied West Bank and besieged Gaza with drones. Twenty-nice civilians, including eight children were killed in what appeared to be six missiles by drones in Gaza. In Beirut, Lebanon an Israeli drone fired and killed at least 6 civilians and wounding 16. Israel refuses to confirm whether it is using armed drones over Gaza.

Israel ranks second after the United States in the development and possession of drones, according to those in the industry. As the drones get bigger and move advanced the more expensive they become. Small drones cost tens of thousands of dollars. Big drones are hugely expensive. Some costs as much as $60 million. Elbit Systems Ltd and Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd are the two manufacturers making the deadly drones -- Heron TP/Eitan and Hermes 450. Between 2009-2018 the U.S. is scheduled to give Israel 30 billion dollars in military aid. The Israeli Air Force since at least 2005 have been training many operators and maintainers.

RESOURCES: Visit CODEPINK's drone information hub at www.droneswatch.org.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Lakota People speak to Transcanada

And they are trying their best to run Transcanada and the Keystone pipeline out of their lands. And I hope they are successful, for the sake of the planet and the future of humankind. I saw "Chasing Ice" last week, and it is apparent that humans are changing the environment so much that there will likely be a mass extinction event in the next 40 or 50 years. I will not be alive to see that, and I am grateful for that.

Glad to see the Lakotas driving the people from Transcanada off their land.


Monday, November 25, 2013

Hopeful!



Came from Sara Haghdoosti, via MoveOn petition, to be sent to our US Senators:

“After decades of hostility, we've just witnessed a deal between the United States and Iran. This deal is a first step towards ensuring we don't get entangled in another senseless war in the Middle East. We call on you to publicly support the deal between the United States, Iran and the international community -- and be a champion for diplomacy.”

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Upcoming events for the week of November 24, 2013



This weekend, thousands came to Fort Benning to protest the School of the Americans (which has been renamed) and torture, extortion, murder and military repression. Photo came from SOA Watch email.


UPCOMING EVENTS



HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND HAPPY HANUKKAH TO EVERYONE!!
 
11/25/13 NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH FILM SERIES
Native American Heritage Month Film Series - We Shall Remain: Wounded Knee. Time is 7 PM and location is the Grotto on the first floor of Highsmith Union at UNCA. This is part of the Native American Heritage Month at UNCA.

11/25/13 ASHEVILLE EARTH SABBATH CELEBRATION
The Earth Sabbath Celebrations are contemplative and experiential services which utilize community building exercises, readings from many faith traditions, music, video, ritual, movement, chant, guided meditation and other modalities to reach deep into the grief and love we feel for our Earth and help both salve and energize our spirits so we can continue the work of restoration and repair of and with the Creator and creation. Time is 7 PM and location is St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Asheville. Free.

11/28/13 THANKSGIVING DINNER TO BENEFIT ROOM IN THE INN
Looking for Thanksgiving plans? Enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal at FIG Bistro in Biltmore Village from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Diners will be encouraged to donate to the FIG Fund, with all donations benefiting our Room in the Inn program! Reservations are required and can be made by visiting www.figbistro.com.     

11/28/13 THANKSGIVING FOR LGBTQ CHOSEN FAMILY
Gobble Til’ You Wobble: A Thanksgiving for LGBTQ Chosen Family! The Asheville, NC, activist group, Just Us for All, has organized an event to give people in the community a place to eat on Thanksgiving. This holiday JUFA will bring together folks in the LGBTQ spectrum who do not have contact with their family of origin due to LGBTQ status, are homeless, or are displaced LGBTQ youth. All people in the Asheville community are welcome to attend if they need a place to eat on Thanksgiving. The space is a safe space for LGBTQ youth and adults. This event is open to the entire LGBTIQA+ ally community, so anybody that respects safe spaces is more than welcome to come! Harry Potter paraphernalia and costumes will be present, but you are more than welcome to come in your muggled body form. Why Harry Potter? Hogwarts represents a home away from home for the characters in Harry Potter. It symbolizes chosen family to many. The day will be filled with games, Harry Potter movies, laughter and food. Many local businesses such as Mela Indian Restaurant, Over Easy Café, and Tupelo Honey are donating food to the event. Just Us For All members will prepare the rest of the food. If you are able to bring a dish to share potluck style please bring one. The event will take place at First Congregational United Church of Christ: 20 Oak Street, Asheville. Time is 1 PM to 7 PM.

11/29/13 PROTEST SODASTREAM ACTION
Western Carolinians for Peace & Justice in the Middle East will hold a protest in front of Bed Bath & Beyond store on South Tunnel Road in Asheville. Time is noon to 1 PM. Contact Bill at hras@humanrightsaction.net for more information. All are welcome.

12/02/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film will be “The Other Son” and will be shown at Black Mountain Library. Accidentally switched at birth, an Israeli soldier and West Bank Palestinian discover their real identities. This discovery sends their families reeling. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

12/03/13 WATER SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE PRESENTATION
Transition Asheville and WaterLinks, PLLC, are presenting the Water Sustainability Initiative of WNC to encourage residents to address problems from both flood and drought conditions using available, cheap, and easy-to-apply methods for managing rain water.  Come by to learn more about what you can do to help mitigate these water concerns. Time is 6:30 PM to 8 PM and location is West Asheville Library.

12/03/13 WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL PRESENTS ‘AFRICA – A HOPEFUL CONTINENT’
Come to the Reuter Center for these fascinating lectures and panel discussions that aim to advance international awareness and foster Western North Carolina's global ties. OLLI members receive a discount on WAC annual membership fee. Non-members may attend individual lectures for a fee of $10/per lecture. Full-time students are admitted free of charge. Time is 7:30 PM to 9 PM and location is Reuter Center at UNCA.

12/04/13 SIERRA CLUB MEETING AND HOLIDAY PARTY
Time is 7 PM (program starts at 7:15) at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

12/04/13 WESTERN CAROLINIANS FOR PEACE & JUSTICE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Meeting will be held at 9:30 AM to 11 AM at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

12/05/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film will be “The Other Son” and will be shown in Asheville at the Brooks-Howell Home on Merrimon Avenue. Accidentally switched at birth, an Israeli soldier and West Bank Palestinian discover their real identities. This discovery sends their families reeling. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

12/05/13 JUST ECONOMICS 2013 ANNUAL CELEBRATION
Join us for our 2013 Annual Celebration featuring a unique performance titled Asheville's Got Talent starring JE members, special guest performers, and local celebrities. Our Annual Celebration will also include free music from Pleasure Chest, food, beer, and fun. Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win great prizes and support our work. The event is free and a time to celebrate the work we all did in 2013 to build a more just and sustainable local economy. Time is 6 PM to 9 PM. This will be held at Jubilee, on Wall Street in Asheville.

12/05/13 SOUP, SONGS, SOLIDARITY BENEFIT
This is a Benefit Concert for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines, put on by the Traveling Bonfires. Malcolm Holcombe, Daniel Barber, Aaron LaFalce, Pipapelli and poets Laura Hope Gill, Pasckie Pascua, Caleb Beissert Emcee: Jadwiga McKay, Caleb Beissert.  Show starts at 7 PM and location is White Horse Black Mountain in Black Mountain. $18 at the door ($15 in advance), $10 students with ID, $5 under 12. For tickets, go to: http://www.whitehorseblackmountain.com/. Beneficiary of the proceeds is the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement. Traditional Filipino dinner will be served. The crowd is enjoined to come with canned goods, used clothes, anything that could be sent to typhoon victims. Please look into the Silent Auction, as well. Donations are also accepted though redcross.org, unicef.org, or rappler.com. The Traveling Bonfires roam the country, ushering arts and music events and bringing people together in celebration of peace and multicultural connectedness. Supervising Producer: Marta Osborne; Executive Director: Pasckie Pascua. INFO, call Marta at 828 280 1555, or email pasckie@yahoo.com.

12/6/13 - RECONCILIATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Director of Musalaha, Dr. Salim Munayer, will be visiting the United States to speak about his organization and their efforts towards peacemaking and reconciliation in the West Bank, Israel and beyond. Musalaha (Arabic for 'Reconciliation') is a non-profit organization in Bethlehem that seeks to promote reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians. For more info about Salim and his organization, visit: www.musalaha.org. This is a FREE event, donations to support the organization are encouraged. 6 PM. It will be held at the Haywood St. Methodist Church (297 Haywood Street, corner of Patton and Clingman Ave.)

12/06/13 WNC ALLIANCE BLUE RIDGE BIOFUELS TOUR
Join WNCA and Blue Ridge Biofuels for a tour of their facility and an opportunity to learn more about the process used to create biodiesel. Time is 4 PM and location is 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. RSVP to Isabelle at isabelle@wnca.org or 828-258-8737 ext 201.

12/07/13 PROTEST SODASTREAM ACTION
Western Carolinians for Peace & Justice in the Middle East will hold a protest at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is noon to 1 PM. Contact Bill at hras@humanrightsaction.net for more information. All are welcome.

12/08/13 PAN HARMONIA BENEFIT CONCERT
Join us on December 8th at 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church downtown for a special holiday performance by Pan Harmonia of the Christmas portion of Handel's Messiah. The suggested donation of $25 will benefit Pan Harmonia, an independent artist collective, and our work to end homelessness.

12/12/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM AT FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
The film will be “The Next American Revolution” and will be shown at 6:30 PM. Location is the First Congregational UCC Church at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. In the manner of TED talks, Gar Alperovitz describes the economic system, already taking form, that will follow corporate capitalism and state socialism. Informative and optimistic in outlook, he shares some American economic structures, mostly local, that are part of our national history and currently in place but overlooked by corporate media. This will be a first showing, with others to follow early next year.

12/14/13 KXL PLEDGE OF RESISTANCE TRAINING
Local organizers are planning trainings for the Pledge on December 14. These will take place at the Asheville Friends Meeting House at 227 Edgewood Rd in Asheville (between Merrimon and UNCA). Time will be 9 AM to 1 PM. This is organized by 350 Asheville, the Rainforest Action Network, and CREDO Action. This is the Pledge: If President Obama succumbs to industry pressure and reneges on his promise to green light the Keystone XL only if it does not contribute to global warming (spoiler alert: it does), then citizens will take action to hold him to his word by occupying Federal Buildings and other key locations in acts of nonviolent civil disobedience. For more information on the trainings or to register for them, please contact Debbie at dgenz@skyrunner.net or call 828-216-2018.

12/15/13 CONTRA FOR CONSCIOUSNESS DANCE
This is a benefit for the Pine Ridge Reservation Nasula: Intercultural Service Learning. Contraversial and calling by Beth Molaro. Location is Bryson Gym at Warren Wilson College. 6:30 PM for lesson, dance is 7 to 10 PM. Suggested donation is $5 - $25.

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ONGOING EVENTS
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TUESDAY
Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 4:30 PM at Pack Square, Vance Monument

WEDNESDAY
Haywood Peace Vigilers have a weekly vigil at 4 PM at Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville

THURSDAY
Asheville Homeless Network meeting at 2 PM at Firestorm Cafe

FRIDAY
Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville
Women in Black have a monthly vigil at 5 PM at Vance Monument in Asheville (first Friday only)

SATURDAY
Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard
Third Saturdays – Asheville’s Green Grannies invites the public to “sing for the climate” at Vance Monument.

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ACTIONS AND READINGS
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From the Highlander Center:

In 1979, Sandi Smith was 22 years old and a nursing student at Bennett College, where she was student body president. She was also working at Cone Mills textile plant in Greensboro, NC, where she was unionizing fellow workers and battling sexual harassment, low wages, and unhealthy working conditions. On November 3 of that year, Sandi and 4 other organizers--César Cauce, Mike Nathan, Bill Sampson, and Jim Waller--were murdered by the KKK and Nazis during an anti-Klan rally. Sandi was helping children hide on the porch of the community center when she was shot and killed.

In the memory of the organizers and to carry on their legacy and work, Highlander is honored to announce that it is now accepting applications for the next class of Greensboro Justice Fund Fellows. Through a generous gift from the Greensboro Justice Fund, Highlander is able to train 5 organizers, one for each of those killed, in a yearlong fellowship of thinking, learning, and acting.

Applications are due by Monday, December 9. For more information about the fellowship and how to apply, please visit: http://highlandercenter.org/now-accepting-applications-third-class-greensboro-justice-fund-fellowship-deadline-dec-9-2013/

******************
VETERANS FOR PEACE INFORMATION


NEW PUBLICATION OF WAR CRIMES TIMES:http://www.WarCrimesTimes.org/
A publication by Veterans For Peace -- exposing the true costs of war.
Visit VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street (the corner of Haywood and Roberts), Asheville, 28801. (828-258-1800). Hours: Tue-Sat 11 AM to 3 PM.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Time to close our dark chapter with Guantanamo



This is the letter to the editor I wrote and sent to the local paper. I was inspired by FCNL and their letter writing tools. 


The prison at Guantanamo Bay will be open for 12 years in a couple of months. That is well over a decade of American injustice, in which our constitutional ideals are shredded and our lack of morality placed on display for the entire world to see. This prison, without trials, evidence, jury or sentencing, has become an effective recruitment tool for extremists rather than a way to reduce violence from extremist groups. It screams of hypocrisy whenever any American official talks about freedom or justice. Eighty-four of the prisoners in our off-shore concentration camp have been cleared for transfer, yet they remain in Guantanamo. As the U.S. Senate takes up the National Defense Authorization act in the coming days, I urge Sens. Hagan and Burr to vote ‘no’ on any amendment that would only serve to keep the prison open indefinitely. Now is the time to close this dark and shameful chapter on American history.


*********************
I did get some feedback that basically said that holding these men at Guantanamo was an okay thing, because they are (supposedly) violent and vicious men. Therefore, our country’s immoral behavior is fine, because there are other people engaging in immoral behavior.

The logic eludes me.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Today..... 50 years after the death of JFK



Today, November 22, 2013 is the 50th Anniversary of the assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy

“What kind of peace do we seek? Not a Pax Americana enforced on the world by American weapons of war. Not the peace of the grave or the security of the slave. I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children--not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women--not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.

In the final analysis, our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal. And is not peace, in the last analysis, basically a matter of human rights--the right to live out our lives without fear of devastation--the right to breathe air as nature provided it--the right of future generations to a healthy existence?

We shall also do our part to build a world of peace where the weak are safe and the strong are just. We are not helpless before that task or hopeless of its success. Confident and unafraid, we labor on.

President John F. Kennedy


+++++++++++++
I was only 8 years old when JFK was shot.  I remember seeing a women openly crying as I walked home from school. I remember my mother and siblings and I kneeling in a circle and praying that he would live, and immediately afterwards hearing that he had died. (Rather reinforced the idea that praying like that did not work.) And a couple of days later, I saw Jack Ruby shoot Lee Harvey Oswald in the chest. It was live on my television.  That was the first live murder I ever saw, but it did not really impress me at the time - I did not understand what had happened, really.  I went and told my mother that "somebody shot the man who shot the President" and she said "no, they didn't".  But I was correct.  Oswald was shot and killed.

And there is still something very, very rotten about the murder of Kennedy and the murder of Oswald.

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Jeremy Hammond

A profound injustice was committed today. Transparency activist Jeremy Hammond has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for leaking internal emails from the firm Stratfor to Wikileaks, which revealed massive unlawful surveillance by corporations. For this act of conscience, Hammond will spend the next decade of his life behind bars. http://freejeremy.net/

All the above from Facebook - this is a major injustice.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

School of the Americas protest

It is better known as the School of the Assassins. This is a short video to promote last year's SOA Watch event - this years event starts on Friday and runs through the weekend. Wish I could make this event down in Columbus Georgia. It is a fantastic event.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Letter to my US Senators


Message sent to the following recipients:
Senator Burr
Senator Hagan


November 14, 2013

Please pass the budget our nation needs by imposing spending discipline on the Pentagon - at least $1 trillion in cuts over the next 10 years -and invest federal funds in programs that build communities, support people in need and provide a path out of poverty.

A $1 trillion cut in Pentagon spending is attainable and reasonable. Even with this reduction, our nation would still be spending about the same as we spent at the height of the Vietnam and Cold Wars.

I am part of the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL), the Quaker lobby based in Washington, DC. I was not able to join FCNL's supporters are lobbying today in Washington but I want you to know that I strongly support cutting the Pentagon budget and investing in the needs of our nation.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Beginnings....

This came from an Occupy Wall Street protest. It is posted on their website.

And a quote from Dr. Cornel West:  “Justice is what love looks like in public.”

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Upcoming events for the week of November 17, 2013



Drones design:  FORESHADOWING

Design by Lillian Moats

In Afghanistan and Pakistan, unmanned drones have become the weapons of choice of the U.S. military and C.I.A. Operators, who sit at computer screens thousands of miles from their targets. An appalling number of civilian men, women and children have become unintended casualties of such "targeted killings" in this one-sided robotic warfare. The painting grew out of the artist's efforts to imagine what the presence of unmanned drones must be like for people on the ground. Biography: Lillian Moats is a Chicago area writer, artist and film-maker. The award winning animated art films she has produced with her partner JP Somersaulter have appeared in festivals around the world. 

This comes from the “Windows and Mirrors” exhibit by AFSC. More information at this link.


UPCOMING EVENTS

11/18/13 MOVE TO AMEND BUNCOMBE COUNTY MEETING
Time is 7 PM and location is North Asheville Library.

11/18/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film is “Precious Life” and will be shown at Black Mountain Library. Mohammad Abu Mustafa, a 4-month-old Palestinian boy living in Gaza Strip, was born without an immune system, faces certain death, without a bone marrow transplant at an Israeli hospital -- an unlikely prospect. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

11/18/13 NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH FILM SERIES   
Native American Heritage Month Film Series – “We Shall Remain: Trail of Tears”. PBS's acclaimed history series, WE SHALL REMAIN, establishes Native history as an essential part of American history. These five documentaries spanning almost four hundred years tell the story of pivotal moments in U.S. history from the Native American perspective, upending two-dimensional stereotypes of American Indians as simply ferocious warriors or peaceable lovers of the land. Time is 7 PM and location is the Intercultural Center, Room 114, on the first floor of Highsmith Union at UNCA. This is part of the Native American Heritage Month at UNCA.

11/18/13 EVENT AT UNCA
“Can We Know Them By Their Songs and Dances? Performing Mirrors: Reflections of War, Turmoil and the Human Spirit.” This will be at Lipinsky Auditorium at UNCA at 11:25 AM. Free.

11/18/13 TRANSITION HENDERSONVILLE PRESENTATION
“Our Solar Community” workshops are a free step – by – step guide to determine the feasibility, benefits and options available today for: solar electricity (photovoltaics), utility intertie - independent systems, emergency/back-up systems, solar hot water. Time is 6:30 PM to 9 PM and location is BIZ611 at 611 North Church Street in Hendersonville.

11/18/13 WLOS PROGRAM AND TOWN HALL MEETING
WLOS News 13 will be airing Mike Mason’s Investigative Piece: Buried Secrets on Monday 11-18-13 at 4 PM. The residents of South Asheville and the Mills Gap Community Advisory Group will hold a Special Town Hall Meeting to view the unprecedented 1 Hour Special. The location is at the Skyland Fire Department on Miller Road, just off Hendersonville Road. The Town Hall will be held in the main conference hall at the Skyland Fire Department, after first showing the WLOS report. There will be a press conference afterwards, as this program will be breaking new information into what happened to our community that sickened, killed and ruined lives here in south Asheville. This notice came from Tate MacQueen, Mills Gap, Concerned Citizens for a CTS Cleanup Vice President

11/19/13 CONCERT AND RECEPTION TO HONOR LOCAL ACTIVISTS
Charlie King and Karen Brandow are musical storytellers and political satirists. They sing and write passionately about the extraordinary lives of ordinary people. This Perelandra Studio Concert will be held in east Asheville on November 19th.  6 PM reception with Charlie and Karen. 7 PM Concert. Both the reception and the concert will celebrate Asheville area participation in the Walk for our Grandchildren and Moral Mondays. Email hras@humanrightsaction.net or or call 314-374-7446 to arrange for tickets which are $20 (only advance tickets available).

11/19/13 HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR TALKS AT UNCA
In this talk, “From Mozart to Murder: A Holocaust Survivor Muses About Radical Evil” Professor Walter Ziffer will relate his personal encounters with such evil (genocide) to a number of attempts by scholars to explain how such monstrosities come into being, considering our human genetic potentials for such, as well as situations that trigger these potentialities to transform into acted atrocities. Time is 7 PM and location is Lipinsky Auditorium at UNCA.

11/19/13 PRESENTATION ON WOMEN’S HEALTH
The story of women's health is a major indicator for children's health. Learn more at “Findings from the NC Women's Health Report Card: A Snapshot of Women's Health Disparities” on Tuesday, November 19th, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Location is the MAHEC Education Building (121 Hendersonville Road, Asheville). The key presenter is Dr. Wendy Brewster, Director of The Center for Women's Health Research - UNC Chapel Hill. She will be joined by local experts. The event is free and sponsored by Women for Women. To register or for more information email tina.owen@mahec.net or call 828-257-4410.

11/19/13 “FRACTURING OUR LANDSCAPE?”
Katie Hicks, Clean Water For NC, speaks at Elisha Mitchell Audubon Society meeting about hydraulic fracturing for natural gas in NC. Time is 7 PM and location is the Reuters Center at UNCA.

11/19/13 WNC ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS MEETING
The Western North Carolina Alliance for Retired Americans meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at the Kenilworth Presbyterian Fellowship Hall, 123 Kenilworth Rd.  Time is 10 AM. The ARA is a statewide organization of retired union members and their friends and families.  We are non-partisan and open to everyone who is concerned about the need for jobs which pay a living wage, as well as those issues which affect all of us. FMI contact Dick at dick@dickandnorma.com.

11/19/13 MUSICAL STORYTELLER AND POLITICAL SATIRISTS
Come out to hear Musical storyteller and political satirists Charlie King and Karen Brandow. They are passing through on way to Ft. Benning SOA Watch vigil. Cost is $20. Location is Perelandra in east Asheville. Advance tickets only. Limited seating.  Email for reservations: hras@humanrightsaction.net. Time is 6 PM.

11/19/13 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE PERMACULTURE POTLUCK
The 11th of our year-long series will feature local permaculture elder and teacher Patricia Allison. Patricia will present the principle "Use Edges and Value the Marginal". All are invited, and bring a friend! Also be sure to bring your dish to share, plate/bowl, cup, utensils, and your passion for creative community engagement. Location is Community Action Opportunities, 25 Gaston Street, Asheville. Time is 5:30 PM.

11/19/13 AUDUBON SOCIETY MEETING
November Program will be at 7:00 PM, in the Reuters Center, UNC Asheville. Join Katie Hicks of Clean Water for North Carolina to learn more about hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") for natural gas in North Carolina. What is fracking? Where do regulations stand in North Carolina, and how might certain parts of the state be particularly vulnerable to negative impacts on drinking water, infrastructure, agriculture and wildlife? Does natural gas production and combustion contribute to climate change? What's driving the political rush to open the state to the gas industry? Find the answers to these questions and more.

11/20/13 RESCHEDULED - HOWARD ZINN READ-IN
Please join the Asheville branch of the International Socialist Organization at 6:00 PM at the Pack Memorial Library (ground floor activity room) to preserve the incredible histories of people fighting for their rights, their lives, and a better world.  “A Peoples History of the United States” by Howard Zinn has been a definitive text for educators, activists, and revolutionaries on the Left for more than three decades. For more information, contact Asheville-socialism@googlegroups.com.

11/20/13 ASHEVILLE GREEN DRINKS
Enjoy a fashion show, a raffle of local products and, an enlightening presentation on “Conscientious Consumers: Feel good about shopping this holiday season!” by Franzi Charen of Asheville Grown Business Alliance and Mark Hebbard of Just Economics. We will be raffling off several prizes donated from local stores. Entry into the raffle is FREE as long as you are in attendance! Location is Green Sage Coffee House and time is 6 PM for the presentation. Socializing before and after event.

11/20/13 ASHEVILLE S.A.C.E.E. DOES SOMETHING ABOUT THE WEATHER
Transition Asheville is a big fan of Maggie Ullman, head of the City’s Office of Sustainability and the rest of the folks at SACEE (Sustainability Advisory Committee on Energy and the Environment).  Their sponsorship of the upcoming open house proves, again, this is a forward looking group which is serious about looking on the effects of weather and climate change on the people of Asheville, Buncombe County and this region. Please come and share your interest and ideas! On Wednesday, Nov. 20th, from 6-8 PM, the City and NEMAC are hosting an open house about weather impact strategies which everyone is invited to. The open house will include interactive local maps of past and projected climate impact mapping as well as long term climate adaptation strategies. Location is NEMAC (National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center) at 116 Grove Arcade, 1 Page Avenue in Asheville.

11/21/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film is “Precious Life” and will be shown in Asheville at the Brooks-Howell Home on Merrimon Avenue. Mohammad Abu Mustafa, a 4-month-old Palestinian boy living in Gaza Strip, was born without an immune system, faces certain death, without a bone marrow transplant at an Israeli hospital -- an unlikely prospect. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

11/21/13 NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH FILM SERIES   
Native American Heritage Month Film Series - We Shall Remain: Geronimo. Time is 7 PM and location is the Intercultural Center, Room 114, on the first floor of Highsmith Union at UNCA. This is part of the Native American Heritage Month at UNCA.

11/21/13 REALLY SCARY MOVIE #9: DO THE MATH
We’re jump-starting a new movement, and we need your help. It is simple math: we can emit 565 more gigatons of carbon dioxide and stay below 2°C of warming — anything more than that risks catastrophe for life on earth. The only problem? Burning the fossil fuel that corporations now have in their reserves would result in emitting 2,795 gigatons of carbon dioxide – five times the safe amount. Fossil fuel companies are planning to burn it all — unless we rise up to stop them. In November 2012, Bill McKibben and 350.org hit the road to build a movement strong enough to change the terrifying math of the climate crisis. The Do the Math Tour was a massive success, with sold out shows in every corner of the country. The USA tour is now over, but the campaign it launched is just getting started and the tour has gone global, and this film is one reason why. Time is 7 PM and location is First Congregational UCC, Room 107, in downtown Asheville.

11/21/13 LAND OF THE SKY VEHICLES ROADSHOW
Land of the Sky presents their second annual Propane AutoGas Roadshow with presentations and exhibits discussing fuel costs, reducing GHG emissions, and supporting domestic fuel. Held at 170 Sweeten Creek Road. Registration required. Time is 9:30 AM to 1 PM. Contact bill@landofsky.org or 251-6622 for more information.

11/21/13 RIVERLINK BUS TOUR
A Riverlink bus tour of the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers will start at 11:45 AM and go to 2 PM. Meeting place is Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. More info at riverlink.org or 252-8474.

11/21/13 UNCA PANEL DISCUSSION
Panel discussion on copy-right and digital media will be held at the Ramsey Library, Whitman Room, at UNCA. Time is 12:30 PM. Free.

11/21/13 CHILDREN FIRST/CIS MIND THE GAP TOUR
The Children First/CIS Mind the Gap Tour will call attention to issues that hinder the success of children and families in poverty. Donations not requested. Info and registration with AdrienneA@children-firstbc.org or 259-9717.

11/21/13 WNC GREEN CONGREGATIONS THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION
On Nov. 21, our friends and partners at WNC Green Congregations will celebrate and share gratitude for Richard Fireman, its co-founder and a longtime supporter of faith-inspired environmental efforts in Western North Carolina. After many years of courageous efforts to protect our mountains and the planet (and all who depend on it), Richard is celebrating his 70th birthday by taking a sabbatical. While he will no longer serve as WNCGC’s co-coordinator, he will stay engaged as a friend and adviser. Make sure to come out on Nov. 21 and give him a big thank you hug! This gathering will also be a time of celebration and gratitude for the amazing support and grace on WNCGC’s efforts over the past year and a half, as well as a chance to look ahead to 2014. Even if you have yet to make one of WNCGC’s meetings and events before, you’re encouraged to join this celebration. For more information (including the time and place), email AnnaJane@WNCA.org.

11/21/13 THEATRE UNCA PRESENTS ‘COLUMBINUS’
Theatre UNCA, UNC Asheville’s student theater company, presents “Columbinus,” written by Stephen Karam and PJ Paparelli, directed by Rob Bowen, associate professor of drama. The play examines the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. A discussion will follow each performance. This play will be preformed from 11/21/13 to 11/24/13. 7:30 PM on Thurs.-Sat. and 2 PM on Sunday. Location is UNC Asheville’s Carol Belk Theatre. Info at 828/232-6610.

11/22/13 to 11/24/13 SCHOOL OF THE AMERICAS WATCH CONVERGENCE ON FORT BENNING

11/22/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM AT UU CHURCH
The November 22nd film will be the award-winning film "Chasing Ice".  The time is 7 PM and the location is Unitarian Universalist church at Edwin and Charlotte Street in Asheville. In the spring of 2005, acclaimed environmental photographer James Balog headed to the Arctic on a tricky assignment for National Geographic: to capture images to help tell the story of the Earth’s changing climate. Even with a scientific upbringing, Balog had been a skeptic about climate change. But that first trip north opened his eyes to the biggest story in human history and sparked a challenge within him that would put his career and his very well-being at risk. Donations accepted, open to the public.

11/22/13 HONORING THE STORIES OF ILLNESS
Observing the 20th anniversary of the film “Philadelphia” and building the narrative medicine practice in WNC, in collaboration of the Columbia University Program in Narrative Medicine. The film will be screened at 7 PM in the second floor conference room at Lenoir-Rhyne University Asheville Campus at 36 Montford Avenue in Asheville. There will be a discussion following the screening. The following day, there will be a Narrative Training Workshop from 10 AM to 4 PM in Room 315 of the same building.

11/22/13 WESTERN CAROLINIANS FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
There will be a meeting at 3:15 at the Media Center at Brooks-Howell House on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. Contact Bill at hras@humanrightsaction.net for more information.

11/22/13 COURTYARD GALLERY FILM SERIES
Film will be “Forbidden Games” and is a French film by Rene Clement. A young French girl orphaned in a Nazi air attack is befriended by the son of a poor farmer, and together they try to come to terms with the realities of death. Location is the Courtyard gallery at the Phil Mechanic Studio on Roberts Street in Asheville. Time is 8 PM. Free, donations accepted.

11/23/13 KXL PLEDGE OF RESISTANCE TRAINING
Local organizers are planning trainings for the Pledge on November 23 and December 14. These will take place at the Asheville Friends Meeting House (Quakers) at 227 Edgewood Rd in Asheville (between Merrimon and UNCA). Time will be 9 AM to 1 PM. This is organized by 350 Asheville, the Rainforest Action Network, and CREDO Action. This is the Pledge: If President Obama succumbs to industry pressure and reneges on his promise to green light the Keystone XL only if it does not contribute to global warming (spoiler alert: it does), then citizens will take action to hold him to his word by occupying Federal Buildings and other key locations in acts of nonviolent civil disobedience. Info on the Pledge at:  http://act.credoaction.com/sign/kxl_pledge. For more information on the trainings or to register for them, please contact Debbie dgenz@skyrunner.net or call 828-216-2018.

11/25/13 NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH FILM SERIES
Native American Heritage Month Film Series - We Shall Remain: Wounded Knee. Time is 7 PM and location is the Grotto on the first floor of Highsmith Union at UNCA. This is part of the Native American Heritage Month at UNCA.

11/25/13 ASHEVILLE EARTH SABBATH CELEBRATION
The Earth Sabbath Celebrations are contemplative and experiential services which utilize community building exercises, readings from many faith traditions, music, video, ritual, movement, chant, guided meditation and other modalities to reach deep into the grief and love we feel for our Earth and help both salve and energize our spirits so we can continue the work of restoration and repair of and with the Creator and creation. Time is 7 PM and location is St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Asheville. Free.

11/28/13 THANKSGIVING DINNER TO BENEFIT ROOM IN THE INN
Looking for Thanksgiving plans?  Enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal at FIG Bistro in Biltmore Village from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.  Diners will be encouraged to donate to the FIG Fund, with all donations benefiting our Room in the Inn program!  Reservations are required and can be made by visiting www.figbistro.com.     

11/29/13 PROTEST SODASTREAM ACTION
Western Carolinians for Peace & Justice in the Middle East will hold a protest in front of Bed Bath & Beyond store on South Tunnel Road in Asheville. Time is noon to 1 PM. Contact Bill at hras@humanrightsaction.net for more information. All are welcome.

12/02/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film will be “The Other Son” and will be shown at Black Mountain Library. Accidentally switched at birth, an Israeli soldier and West Bank Palestinian discover their real identities. This discovery sends their families reeling. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

12/03/13 WATER SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE PRESENTATION
Transition Asheville and WaterLinks, PLLC, are presenting the Water Sustainability Initiative of WNC to encourage residents to address problems from both flood and drought conditions using available, cheap, and easy-to-apply methods for managing rain water.  Come by to learn more about what you can do to help mitigate these water concerns. Time is 6:30 PM to 8 PM and location is West Asheville Library.

12/05/13 JUST ECONOMICS 2013 ANNUAL CELEBRATION
Join us for our 2013 Annual Celebration featuring a unique performance titled Asheville's Got Talent starring JE members, special guest performers, and local celebrities. Our Annual Celebration will also include free music from Pleasure Chest, food, beer, and fun. Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win great prizes and support our work. The event is free and a time to celebrate the work we all did in 2013 to build a more just and sustainable local economy. Time is 6 PM to 9 PM. This will be held at Jubilee, on Wall Street in Asheville.

12/03/13 WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL PRESENTS ‘AFRICA – A HOPEFUL CONTINENT’
Come to the Reuter Center for these fascinating lectures and panel discussions that aim to advance international awareness and foster Western North Carolina's global ties. OLLI members receive a discount on WAC annual membership fee. Non-members may attend individual lectures for a fee of $10/per lecture. Full-time students are admitted free of charge. Time is 7:30 PM to 9 PM and location is Reuter Center at UNCA.

12/04/13 SIERRA CLUB MEETING AND HOLIDAY PARTY
Time is 7 PM (program starts at 7:15) at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

12/05/13 STORIES THAT BEND TOWARD JUSTICE AND PEACE
This Middle East Film Series runs from November 4 thru December 5, with showings in Back Mountain and Asheville. Time is 7 PM. Films sponsored by Western Carolinians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East. Free and open to the public. Today’s film will be “The Other Son” and will be shown in Asheville at the Brooks-Howell Home on Merrimon Avenue. Accidentally switched at birth, an Israeli soldier and West Bank Palestinian discover their real identities. This discovery sends their families reeling. For more information, contact Bill at 314-374-7446.

12/6/13 - RECONCILIATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Director of Musalaha, Dr. Salim Munayer, will be visiting the United States to speak about his organization and their efforts towards peacemaking and reconciliation in the West Bank, Israel and beyond. Musalaha (Arabic for 'Reconciliation') is a non-profit organization in Bethlehem that seeks to promote reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians. For more info about Salim and his organization, visit: www.musalaha.org. This is a FREE event, donations to support the organization are encouraged. 6 PM. It will be held at the Haywood St. Methodist Church (297 Haywood Street, corner of Patton and Clingman Ave.)

12/06/13 WNC ALLIANCE BLUE RIDGE BIOFUELS TOUR
Join WNCA and Blue Ridge Biofuels for a tour of their facility and an opportunity to learn more about the process used to create biodiesel. Time is 4 PM and location is 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. RSVP to Isabelle at isabelle@wnca.org or 828-258-8737 ext 201.

12/07/13 PROTEST SODASTREAM ACTION
Western Carolinians for Peace & Justice in the Middle East will hold a protest at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is noon to 1 PM. Contact Bill at hras@humanrightsaction.net for more information. All are welcome.

12/08/13 PAN HARMONIA BENEFIT CONCERT
Join us on December 8th at 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church downtown for a special holiday performance by Pan Harmonia of the Christmas portion of Handel's Messiah. The suggested donation of $25 will benefit Pan Harmonia, an independent artist collective, and our work to end homelessness.

12/12/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM AT FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
The film will be “The Next American Revolution” and will be shown at 6:30 PM. Location is the First Congregational UCC Church at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. In the manner of TED talks, Gar Alperovitz describes the economic system, already taking form, that will follow corporate capitalism and state socialism. Informative and optimistic in outlook, he shares some American economic structures, mostly local, that are part of our national history and currently in place but overlooked by corporate media. This will be a first showing, with others to follow early next year.

12/14/13 KXL PLEDGE OF RESISTANCE TRAINING
Local organizers are planning trainings for the Pledge on November 23 and December 14. These will take place at the Asheville Friends Meeting House (Quakers) at 227 Edgewood Rd in Asheville (between Merrimon and UNCA). Time will be 9 AM to 1 PM. This is organized by 350 Asheville, the Rainforest Action Network, and CREDO Action. This is the Pledge: If President Obama succumbs to industry pressure and reneges on his promise to green light the Keystone XL only if it does not contribute to global warming (spoiler alert: it does), then citizens will take action to hold him to his word by occupying Federal Buildings and other key locations in acts of nonviolent civil disobedience. Info on the Pledge:  http://act.credoaction.com/sign/kxl_pledge. For more information on the trainings or to register for them, please contact Debbie dgenz@skyrunner.net or call 828-216-2018.

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ONGOING EVENTS
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TUESDAY
Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 4:30 PM at Pack Square, Vance Monument

WEDNESDAY
Haywood Peace Vigilers have a weekly vigil at 4 PM at Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville

THURSDAY
Asheville Homeless Network meeting at 2 PM at Firestorm Cafe

FRIDAY
Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville
Women in Black have a monthly vigil at 5 PM at Vance Monument in Asheville (first Friday only)

SATURDAY
Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard
Third Saturdays – Asheville’s Green Grannies invites the public to “sing for the climate” at Vance Monument.

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ACTIONS AND READINGS
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Forever Free: The Slave Deeds of Buncombe County

October - December 31, YMI Cultural Center, 43 Market St.

This exhibit has traveled from the Register of Deeds to Pack Memorial Library and is now at the YMI.  Included in the exhibit are original books from both the register of deeds and the clerk of court who detail the sale and inheritance of enslaved people prior to 1865. These resources are also available on line for student primary source document research. To learn more visit this website.

Cohabitation Records of Buncombe County  
Now ONLINE
Following the Civil War, African American people who had lived as married people during slavery, though were not allowed to marry, were encouraged to go to the Register of Deeds and record the years that they had been as a married couple. These were called Cohabitation Records. Two months ago Drew Resinger began the work to have these records, now in the archive in Raleigh, digitized so that they could be brought back and made assessable to Buncombe County residents.

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WOMEN AT RISK HOLIDAY PARTY

Women At Risk Needs Your Help! The annual holiday party for Women At Risk clients will be December 11th, and to make gift bags for the women, staff are seeking donations of gloves, hats, scarves, chapstick, nail polish, lotion, soap, or feminine products.  Donation dropoff can be coordinated through Betsy Burnett, a Women At Risk case manager, at betsy@homewardboundwnc.org.  

Cut the Risk
It's planning time for the annual fundraiser for Women At Risk!  Cut the Risk is a community-wide event that happens each Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, where salons, spas, and other personal service providers donate their services and all proceeds from the day support the Women At Risk program.  If you're connected with folks who might be interested in participating, please contact Beth Russo at beth@homewardboundwnc.org to make this benefit a success!

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FROM CHILDREN FIRST/CIS

We've got a new accountability tool for tracking WNC legislators' votes - www.wncvotetracker.org. Visit this infomative website to learn how legislators voted in the most recent session on issues related to: Economic Security, Education, Environment, Health & Safety, Government & Democracy, and Women's Issues. The site also provides an overview of the budget and tax bills.

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USFS: Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests Plan Revision open houses scheduled

To make up for the Oct. 5 workshop that was cancelled by the federal government shutdown, the U.S. Forest Service has scheduled a series of “Need-For-Change” drop-in open houses at six locations. The events will be from 4-7 PM on the following dates. Members of the public are invited to drop in at any time between 4 and 7 p.m.

Marion Open House (Nov. 18):
McDowell Technical Community College
William Harold Smith Building (#19); Room 113
54 College Drive, Marion, NC 28752

Brevard Open House (Nov. 19):
Transylvania County Library
212 South Gaston Street
Brevard, NC 28712

Murphy Open House (Dec. 3):
Tri-County Community College, Enlowe Multi-Purpose Room
21 Campus Circle; Intersection of  US-141 and US-64
Murphy, NC 28906

Mars Hill Open House (Dec. 3):
Appalachian Ranger District Office
632 Manor Road
Mars Hill, NC 28754

Robbinsville Open House (Dec. 5):
Graham County Community Center
196 Knight Street
Robbinsville, NC 28771

Franklin Open House (Dec. 17):
Nantahala Ranger District
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734

At the open houses, attendees will have the opportunity to submit written ideas for how the 1987 plan needs to be changed. U.S. Forest Service specialists will be on hand to assist, answer questions and listen to concerns. Sample “Need-for-Change” statements were shared with the public in September and are available online HERE. For a paper copy, please call Heather Luczak at 828-257-4817. The sample also explains how you can share ideas via U.S. mail if you are not able to attend an in-person meeting.

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From the Highlander Center:

In 1979, Sandi Smith was 22 years old and a nursing student at Bennett College, where she was student body president. She was also working at Cone Mills textile plant in Greensboro, NC, where she was unionizing fellow workers and battling sexual harassment, low wages, and unhealthy working conditions. On November 3 of that year, Sandi and 4 other organizers--César Cauce, Mike Nathan, Bill Sampson, and Jim Waller--were murdered by the KKK and Nazis during an anti-Klan rally. Sandi was helping children hide on the porch of the community center when she was shot and killed.

In the memory of the organizers and to carry on their legacy and work, Highlander is honored to announce that it is now accepting applications for the next class of Greensboro Justice Fund Fellows. Through a generous gift from the Greensboro Justice Fund, Highlander is able to train 5 organizers, one for each of those killed, in a yearlong fellowship of thinking, learning, and acting.

Applications are due by Monday, December 9. For more information about the fellowship and how to apply, please visit: http://highlandercenter.org/now-accepting-applications-third-class-greensboro-justice-fund-fellowship-deadline-dec-9-2013/

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