April 2013 News

APRIL 2013

From David Swanson (first appeared in a FireDogLake article, now posted at Information Clearing House):

He quotes: “Our intelligence community does assess with varying degrees of confidence that the Syrian regime has used chemical weapons on a small scale in Syria, specifically the chemical agent sarin.”

His response:  I do assess with varying degrees of horror (some of the varying degrees rather high even) that a lot of people are going to die. And how dare they die from chemical weapons when they should be dying from hellfire missiles and cluster bombs and napalm and depleted uranium and white phosphorous. We have a responsibility to protect these people from dying of the wrong type of weapon and in too small numbers."

Here is a link to the full article.

Below is a list of some news items about events around the world, many of which the US government is involved with, or has been involved with in the recent past. Things are going very badly in Iraq and Syria, and going downhill fast in Libya and other areas in Africa.

USA – Ran a secret prison at a US base in Baghdad. Horrible human rights abuses reported. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/01/camp-nama-iraq-human-rights-abuses

USA – Obama’s drone wars kill who-knows-who. http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/09/188062/obamas-drone-war-kills-others.html

USA – “It seems pretty obvious to the average viewer that there is something going on in our oceans or environments that is driving such extraordinary changes in marine mammal behavior” [And it is only going to get more obvious in the near future.] http://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/2013/0410/What-is-killing-California-sea-lion-pups-Why-unusual-event-is-a-concern?nav=87-frontpage-entryInsideMonitor

USA – Not one mass shooting in the USA since 1982 has been stopped by a civilian with a gun. http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/04/mass-shootings-rampages-rising-data

USA – Obama administration lies about drone killings. They have no idea who they are killing, and are the least transparent and accountable US government in ages. http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/apr/11/three-lessons-obama-drone-lies

USA – Red Cross expressed opposition to force feeding Guantanamo prisoners. http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/11/us-usa-guantanamo-redcross-idUSBRE93A10J20130411

USA – Guantanamo prisoners put into single cells. The prisoners are watched all the time. [This is such a violation of human rights!]  http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=119772 

USA – The sweeping, 577-page report says that while brutality has occurred in every American war, there never before had been “the kind of considered and detailed discussions that occurred after 9/11 directly involving a president and his top advisers on the wisdom, propriety and legality of inflicting pain and torment on some detainees in our custody.” http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/16/world/us-practiced-torture-after-9-11-nonpartisan-review-concludes.html

USA – The Boston bombing produces familiar and revealing reactions. http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/apr/16/boston-marathon-explosions-notes-reactions

USA – It is the fullest independent effort so far to assess the treatment of detainees at Guantánamo Bay, in Afghanistan and Iraq, and at the C.I.A.’s secret prisons. Those who sanctioned the use of brutal methods, like former Vice President Dick Cheney, will continue to defend their use. But the report’s authoritative conclusion that “the United States engaged in the practice of torture” is impossible to dismiss by a public that needs to know what was committed in the nation’s name.  [Torturers R Us.] http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/17/opinion/indisputable-torture-of-prisoners.html 

USA – Nearly half of all prisoners in Guantanamo are now on hunger strike. http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/21/189253/nearly-half-of-guantanamo-prisoners.html

USA – Fracking truck sets off radiation alarm at landfill. http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffmcmahon/2013/04/24/fracking-truck-sets-off-radiation-alarm-at-landfill/

DR Congo – The main rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, M23, has rejected the UN's decision to deploy a special attack force to the area. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21993655

DR Congo - Two militia groups have attacked DR Congo Armed Forces (FARDC) in Chishadu, South-Kivu Province, civil society groups said. Civil society sources said the militia groups attacking the army positions are suspected allies of Colonel Albert Kahasha, alias Foka Mike and Maheshe, known for leading one of the most dangerous militia in the region. http://is.gd/96t2an 

WORLD – UN passes historic arms trade treaty by huge majority. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-21998394

Burma – The Burmese government should thoroughly investigate and hold accountable those who incited and committed deadly violence in Meiktila in central Burma from March 20 to 22, 2013. Decisive government action to combat impunity, end discrimination, and promote tolerance among religious groups is needed to end the tide of attacks against Muslim communities. An estimated 40 people were killed and 61 wounded in the clashes between Muslims and majority Buddhists in Meiktila in the Mandalay Region. http://www.hrw.org/news/2013/04/01/burma-satellite-images-detail-destruction-meiktila  

Afghanistan – In deadliest attack this year, Taliban storm Afghan courthouse and kill at least 44. They were wearing Afghan army uniforms. [Other reports say more than 50 dead. April 3]

http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/03/187644/in-deadliest-attack-this-year.html

Afghanistan – Six Afghans (four police and two civilians) killed by NATO airstrike in Ghazni province. [April 4] http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/04/187741/6-afghans-killed-in-nato-airstrike.html 

Afghanistan – A car bomb killed five Americans, including three US soldiers and a diplomat. http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/07/us-afghanistan-attack-zabul-idUSBRE93506820130407

Afghanistan – Eleven children killed by NATO airstrike. http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/07/us-afghanistan-civilians-idUSBRE93605920130407

Afghanistan – Roadside bombs and insurgent attacks have killed 24 people. [April 17] According to an Associated Press tally, 182 people have been killed in violence around the nation this month. http://is.gd/kiplIN

Afghanistan – Taliban attacks kill at least 24. [April 18] http://news.antiwar.com/2013/04/17/taliban-attacks-kill-at-least-24-in-afghanistan/

Afghanistan – Thirty schoolgirls hit by suspected gas poisoning. [April 21] http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=9107163068

Afghanistan – Karzai attempts to curb CIA operations in his country. http://is.gd/yXeqFA

Afghanistan – Civilian casualties on the rise. http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/auckland/news/nbint/342573440-civilian-casualties-in-afghanistan-on-the-rise

Syria – March was deadliest month of Syrian war, as rebel deaths surged. http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/01/187443/march-was-deadliest-month-of-syrian.html

Syria – Six hundred individuals from 14 countries including the UK, Austria, Spain, Sweden and Germany had taken part in the conflict. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/03/syria-hundreds-jihadists-europe

Syria – Damascus rocked by suicide bomber, killing 15 people. Another 53 people were wounded. [April 8] http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/08/damascus-suicide-bomb

Syria – Powerful Syrian rebel group merges with al Qaeda in Iraq to form new alliance. http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/04/10/powerful-syrian-rebel-group-merges-with-al-qaeda-in-iraq-to-form-new-alliance/

Syria – Syrian Air Force is carrying out deliberate air strikes against civilians and indiscriminate attack, says Human Rights Watch. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22098794

Syria – Israel fires shells into Golan Heights in response to Syrian fire. [April 12]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/12/israel-fires-shells-into-golan-heights_n_3071973.html

Iraq and Syria – Al Qaeda in Iraq is involved with the fighting in Syria, and claims are made that Jabhat al Nusra is an extension of al Qaeda in Iraq. [April 10] http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/04/10/al-qaeda-s-syria-play.html

Syria – More than 80 corpses found in Jdeydet al-Fadel after days of fighting. [April 21] http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/04/2013421152010175448.html

Syria – Assad forces retake town near Damascus, and opposition group unveils new leader. [April 22. On April 24, other reports say that Assad forces retake another town near Damascus.] http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/04/22/189358/assad-forces-retake-towns-near.html

Syria – None of the rebels are a secular fighting force. http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/28/world/middleeast/islamist-rebels-gains-in-syria-create-dilemma-for-us.html

Syria – Car bomb goes off in Damascus for the second day in a row. At least 13 have been killed. [And ten more were killed yesterday. April 30] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22351172

Syria – Hezbollah is helping Assad fight Syria uprising. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/30/hezbollah-syria-uprising-nasrallah

Palestine – Two teens shot dead by Israel in occupied West Bank. [One was shot in the back. April 4] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22020736  

Japan – Fukushima nuclear plant leaking contaminated water. [And if the contaminated water is not going into the sea, then it is going into the ground water.] http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/04/05/17622912-japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-leaking-contaminated-water

Japan - Reports of Fukushima fallout harming US infants. http://enenews.com/abc-san-diego-alarming-report-of-u-s-infants-affected-by-fukushima-contamination-video

Iraq – Deadly blast at Baquba political rally killed at least 22 people. [Other reports say at least 29 killed. April 6] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22051123

Iraq – British soldiers and airmen who helped to operate a secretive US detention facility in Baghdad that was at the centre of some of the most serious human rights abuses to occur in Iraq after the invasion have, for the first time, spoken about abuses they witnessed there. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/01/camp-nama-iraq-human-rights-abuses

Iraq – Bomb attacks on mosques kill at least eleven. [April 12] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22128070

Iraq – Another candidate for provincial elections killed, bringing the total number of candidates killed to 14. http://dawn.com/2013/04/14/another-iraqi-polls-candidate-killed/

Iraq- Series of bomb blasts killed at least 42 people and wounded more than 257. [April 15] http://edition.cnn.com/2013/04/15/world/meast/iraq-violence

Iraq – Bombings and attacks kill nine. Iraqi Government executes another 21 people. [April 17] http://is.gd/FxvdlX

Iraq – Suicide bomber kills 27 in Baghdad café. [April 18] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22209841

Iraq – Mosque blasts kill nine worshippers and wounded 29 more. [Other reports say more than 35 killed. April 20] http://is.gd/onN87r

 

Iraq – More than 20 people have been killed in clashes between security forces and Sunni protesters. [Other reports put the number of dead at 44, and NYT was reporting that there were several gun battles across Iraq in Sunni majority areas. April 23] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22261422 

Iraq – Iraqi soldiers opened fire from helicopters on Sunni gunmen hiding in a northern village. [This keeps getting worse and worse. April 24] http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/25/world/middleeast/with-air-attacks-sectarian-strife-intensifies-in-iraq.html

Iraq - Police say 41 killed in clashes between "gunmen" and police in northern city of Mosul. Iraq's prime minister appealed for calm following three days of violence that has left more than 150 dead. [Gunman took over the town of Suleiman Beg, according to other news reports. There were clashes in other Sunni areas in Iraq. One report says that 128 were killed in the past two days. April 25] http://is.gd/kFl8Nn

Iraq – Soldiers backed by tanks retook control of a Sunni town north of Baghdad after gunmen withdrew without a fight, although violence erupted at three Sunni mosques and clerics called for the formation of a tribal army to protect Sunni cities. [April 26] http://is.gd/BhIF94

Iraq – Gunmen killed five army intelligence soldiers in two attacks west of Baghdad while others shot dead five anti-Qaida militiamen north of the Iraqi capital. [April 27] http://is.gd/UxS9hE

Iraq – Al Jazeera Banned over ‘sectarian bias’ in coverage. http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2013/apr/28/al-jazeera-banned-iraq-sectarian

Iraq – Bombings in Shi’ite areas, killing at least 36. [April 29] http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraq-officials-3-car-bombs-rock-shiite-cities-in-southern-iraq-killing-at-least-16/2013/04/29/72dd49ae-b0a0-11e2-9fb1-62de9581c946_print.html   

Iraq – Bombing near Sunni mosque kills four. [April 30]  http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraqi-officials-bombing-near-sunni-worshipers-near-mosque-in-baghdad-kills-4-wounds-20/2013/04/30/6785b982-b1c8-11e2-9fb1-62de9581c946_story.html

Pakistan – US drones kill four people in North Waziristan. [April 14] http://edition.cnn.com/2013/04/14/world/asia/pakistan-drone-strike/ 

Pakistan – US drones kill five in South Waziristan. [April 18] http://news.antiwar.com/2013/04/17/us-drone-strike-kills-five-in-south-waziristan/

Pakistan – Bomber on motorcycle kills 9. [April 30] http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/world/bomber-on-motorcycle-kills-9-during-rush-hour-in-pakistan-685683/

Egypt – Five die in Christian-Muslim clashes. http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/06/us-egypt-clashes-idUSBRE93503A20130406

Libya – The second anniversary of NATO's intervention on the side of the Libyan rebels and against Muammar Gaddafi passed with scarcely a mention by foreign governments and media who were so concerned about the security and human rights of the Libyan people in 2011. This should be no surprise, since Libya today is visibly falling apart as a country and Libyans are at the mercy of militiamen who prey on those whom they formerly claimed to protect.

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/libyas-future-looks-bleak-as-media-focus-turns-elsewhere-8563076.html 

Libya – UN says that Libyan weapons are spread to more than 12 countries, fueling conflicts and violence. [April 9] http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/un-panel-libyan-weapons-are-spreading-at-an-alarming-rate-to-new-areas-and-fueling-conflicts/2013/04/09/23166e90-a174-11e2-bd52-614156372695_story.html

Libya – French embassy hit by car bomb in Tripoli. [April 23] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-22260856

Libya - Armed men in trucks with anti-aircraft guns mounted on them occupied the Libyan Justice Ministry in Tripoli forcing ministry staff to leave. This comes as the nation's Foreign Ministry remains under siege for a third straight day. [April 30] http://edition.cnn.com/2013/04/30/world/africa/libya-unrest/index.html

South Sudan – Five UN troops and seven civilians killed by an ambush by rebels. [April 9] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22080224 

Mali – Refugees in Mauritania are living in appalling conditions. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-22117712

Jordan – US deploys 200 troops to Jordan over Syria war. http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gDsDW2CbfeUxP9Krh30Ym6I34FJA

Venezuela – Protests turn deadly, as Maduro accuses opposition of coup plot. Seven killed so far. [Election results recognized by all countries in North and South America except the USA. April 16] http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/16/nicolas-maduro-accuses-opposition-coup-protest  

Yemen – US drones kill five al Qaeda suspects. [April 19] http://news.antiwar.com/2013/04/17/us-drone-strike-kills-five-aqap-suspects-in-yemen/

Yemen – Five killed and others injured in clashes between pro-government armed popular committees and armed tribesmen in southern Abyan governorate. [April 20] http://is.gd/Iaeqj6

Yeman – Effects of a drone strike on a remote village. [This writer also spoke to a US Senate committee on April 22. He is a very compelling. Drone strike on April 17] http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/04/yemen-village-drone-attack-wessab.html

Yemen – US drone kills two suspected al Qaeda militants. It is the third suspected US drone strike in less than a week in Yemen. [April 21] http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/21/us-yemen-violence-idUSBRE93K03420130421

Bahrain – Protest draws tens of thousands out to the streets ahead of Grand Prix. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22212896  

Israel – Bulldozers flatten Bedouin village 49 times. http://is.gd/z4vKOk

Nigeria – At least 187 people killed in Nigeria violence, per the Red Cross. [Fighting is between soldiers and Islamic militants. Civilians are the victims. April 23]  http://is.gd/hjqDNF

Nigeria – An attack Thursday in restive northern Nigeria where suspected Islamists stormed a police station and stole nearly $60,000 from a bank killed 20 insurgents and five officers. [April 26] http://is.gd/kNdSKu

Nigeria – Fighting leaves at least 17 dead. [April 30] http://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0000179915

Turkey – Kurdish rebels to withdraw form Turkey. There is a peace drive between Ankara and the rebel movement. http://is.gd/ZuPk12

CAR – Twenty killed, 480 houses razed in Central African Republic attack by militants of Seleka, which seized power on March 24. [April 24] http://is.gd/cFCcto

Washington Peace Center

From an email from United for Peace & Justice: 

Did You Know?

1963: After leading a vigil against biological and chemical weapons, a small group of Quakers officially found the Washington Peace Center (WPC).

1965: WPC helps organize the SDS anti-Vietnam March.

1972: WPC is THE place to go in DC for draft counseling. FBI breaks into the office.

1987: WPC works against US intervention in Central America and Southern Africa.

1990: WPC leads local opposition to first Gulf War.

Today: WPC serves as a thriving hub for local activism and a force for peace and justice.

We are all Aaron Swartz

It has been several months since Aaron's death - and I still feel that we lost a great deal.

Upcoming events in the Asheville area this week

Tim DeChristopher – photo came from EcoWatch website.

Go here for more information on him.

UPCOMING EVENTS

04/30/13 UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION – WNC CHAPTER

There will be a public meeting to explore the UN’s involvement in women’s issues with Dr. Lyndi Hewitt. “The UN, Civil Society, and Violence Against Women and Girls: Where are we now?  Dr. Hewitt is a professor at UNCA. She will present her findings and observations at 6:30 PM at the Mountain View Room at the Sherrill Center at UNCA. Admission is free. For more information, contact info@una-wnc.org.

05/01/13 SIERRA CLUB MEETING

Time is 7 PM (program starts at 7:15) at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Asheville (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Sierra Club will present a program on how the land that became DuPont State Forest was protected from private development. The Blue Ghost Fireflies, one of the wonders of DuPont State Forest, will be also featured. Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

05/01/13 MAHEC LUNCH AND LEARN

This will be held at the MAHEC Education Building at 121 Hendersonville Road from 11:30 AM to 1 PM. Watch and discuss "Place Matters," an episode of the PBS series "Unnatural Causes: Inequality Making Us Sick?"  BYO lunch.

05/01/13 INTERNATIONAL WORKER’S DAY

Employees from around the Asheville-Buncombe area will honor International Workers’ Day on May 1 here in Asheville with a rally, speeches and moving picket to City Hall. The rally begins at 4 p.m. at the Vance Monument, downtown Asheville. The moving picket will end at the Pack Memorial Library where organizers will facilitate a collaborative conversation on labor and workers rights within our community.

4 PM - Rally at Vance Monument

4:45 PM - Moving Picket

6 PM - Asheville Fair Wages Meeting at the Pack Memorial Library

For more information, please feel free to contact John at 828-230-6902 or Dana at doglesby.f12@warren-wilson.edu.  

05/02/13 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING

Time is 6:30 PM and location is VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. VFP Chapter 099: http://vfpchapter099wnc.blogspot.com/

05/02/13 JUBILEE FILM NIGHT

There will be a screening of "The Help" at Jubilee Community Church from 7 PM to 9 PM. Jubilee Community Church is at 46 Wall Street in Asheville. They will watch film excerpts and then engage in a conversation highlighting and proving issues raised in the story of The Help. For more information, contact Meta Commerse at 828-407-336.

05/02 YWCA BLACK & WHITE GALA

Wrap up party for the Stand Against Racism campaign. Tickets and information at www.ywcaofasheville.org. Attire is fun, festive, creative, black and white. Time is 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Tickets cost $50 per person.

05/03/13 NATIONAL WAR TAX RESISTANCE GATHERING IN ASHEVILLE

The National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee (NWTRCC) will hold its National Gathering, at the Flood Fine Arts Center in the Phil Mechanics Building at 109 Roberts Street May 3rd through the 5th featuring workshops about War Tax Resistance, panels and keynote addresses by Cindy Sheehan and author David Swanson. A complete schedule of events and registration form with dates and times can be viewed at: http://www.nwtrcc.org/gatheringMay2013.php. David Swanson will present the keynote address on Friday May 3rd, 8pm at the Flood Fine Arts Center, in the River Arts District, 109 Roberts St. His presentation titled, “Lessons from an Overlooked Anti-War Movement” will center around thoughts from his various publications including “War is a Lie.” There will be a community potluck at 7 PM on Friday also. Cindy Sheehan's keynote address on Saturday May 4th, 8pm at the Flood Fine Arts Center, will detail examples of why “War Tax Resistance IS Courage” using material from her popular podcast titled “Cindy Sheehan's Soapbox.” How to go about refusing to pay taxes for war will be part of the program allowing for the audience to begin to think about alternative methods for resisting taxes going to the military. THERE IS A NEED FOR HOSTS TO PROVIDE HOUSING - PLEASE CONTACT LOCAL ORGANIZERS AT NEWSOUTHNETWORK@GMAIL.COM OR CALL 828-301-6683.

05/04/13 OCCUPY ASHEVILLE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

This will be held at 2 PM at Pritchard Park. Please come and help decide the future of Occupy Asheville.

05/06/13 GREEN PARTY MEETING

The Buncombe County GREEN Party's business meeting is open to the public. It is held on the first Monday of the month. Time is 6 PM and location is the Fortune Building (upstairs), at 729 Haywood Rd., West Asheville. Parking in back and on the street. Contact Ronald @ 828-LUCK-180 or Larry @ 828-225-4347 for more information.

05/07/13 CLEAN WATER FOR NC ANTI-FRACKING MEETING

You're invited to join Clean Water for NC and the Asheville fracking ambassadors for our second monthly meeting and potluck! Time is 6 PM and location is Asheville Friends Meeting at 227 Edgewood Road in Asheville. We'll enjoy some food and conversation, then have a brief update/presentation and discuss more simple ways YOU can take action to prevent fracking's impacts in NC. For more information, contact Katie at katie@cwfnc.org or (828) 251-1291.

05/09/13 ASHEVILLE RISING MEETING

Time will be 7 PM, location to be determined. More information to come.

05/10/13 CHILD WATCH TOUR – HOUSING MATTERS FOR KIDS

There's still time to register for the 2013 Child Watch Tour - Housing Matters for Kids. Friday, May 10th, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM (lunch-only option from 11:30 - 1:00 is available). The tour, cosponsored by Children First/CIS and the Junior League of Asheville, offers a "field trip for adults" that educates and inspires leadership around important children and youth issues in our community. This year we'll explore how safe, affordable housing is a cornerstone for children's health and education. How can we make smart investments and policy decisions around housing? Join us on May 10th to find out. Registration is open to all! http://statevoices.salsalabs.com/o/512/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=430

05/10/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM NIGHT AT UU CHURCH

“The Last Mountain: A Fight For Our Future” will be shown at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville at 7 PM. Discussion to follow. This is a film about Coal Mountain and the power of ordinary Americans who fight for what they believe in. It is a fight to stop mountaintop removal. Donations accepted.

05/11/13 HARD TO RECYCLE EVENT

Time is 10 AM to 2 PM. North Buncombe Hard-to-Recycle Collection at Roses, 165 Weaver Blvd, Weaverville. Asheville GreenWorks has a webpage for H2R information. Questions – call 254-1776 or email info@ashevillegreenworks.org.

05/13/13 MOVE TO AMEND BUNCOMBE COUNTY

Time is 7 PM and location is Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville at Charlotte and Edwin Streets in the lower level meeting room. It shall be the mission of Move to Amend Buncombe County to create public demand for passage by the US Congress and ratification by the North Carolina Legislature, and those of other states, of a Constitutional Amendment reserving access to First Amendment protections to natural human beings and the press, defining speech as actual communication and authorizing Congress to regulate the raising and spending of political funds. Contact Lew at patrie.wncpsr@main.nc.us for more information.

05/16/13 MAHA COMES TO THE MOUNTAINS

Please join Medical Advocates for Healthy Air & the Western North Carolina Alliance for a dinner discussion and update on our state’s air quality. This is for MAHA staff and members, medical and health professionals, and others interested in the connections between air quality and human health. RSVP: Let Rebecca know at rebecca@cleanaircarolina.org if you will attend dinner at 6:30. Non-diners are welcome to attend the presentation at 7 PM. Location TBD.

05/17/13 WNC PHYSICIANS FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY MEETING

The next WNC PSR monthly meeting will be at a private home near the VA Hospital. Brown Bag lunch at noon with meeting from 12:30 to 2 PM. Everyone is welcome. Please go to www.wncpsr.org  for more information, which includes how to get there and other details.

05/18/13 GREEN GRANNIES ‘SING FOR THE CLIMATE’

Join the Green Grannies to "SING FOR THE CLIMATE". This is every third Saturday at 5 PM, Vance Monument.  See the video, singfortheclimate.com.

05/18/13 HARD TO RECYCLE EVENT

Time is 9 AM to 4 PM. Black Mountain Garden Show & Sale at Monte Vista Hotel, 308 W. State Street, Black Mountain. Also Rainbow Recycling’s Plastic Flower Pot (& Tray) Collection - Drop off unwanted pots, pick up ones you can use! Asheville GreenWorks has a webpage for H2R information. Questions – call 254-1776 or email info@ashevillegreenworks.org.

05/25/13 MARCH AGAINST MONSANTO

On May 25, activists around the world will unite to March Against Monsanto. Why do we march? Research studies have shown that Monsanto’s genetically-modified foods can lead to serious health conditions such as the development of cancer tumors, infertility and birth defects. Taking to the streets to show the world and Monsanto that we won't take these injustices quietly. Time is 2 PM and location is Pack Square Park in Asheville.

06/01/13 RALLY FOR BRADLEY MANNING AT FORT MEADE

http://www.bradleymanning.org/support_events/rally-for-bradley-at-fort-meade

06/05/13 SIERRA CLUB MEETING

“Our Mountain Treasures: Planning for the Future of our national forests” - a presentation by Jill Gottesman. Time is 7 PM (program starts at 7:15)at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Asheville (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

06/15/13 WALK FOR OUR GRANDCHILDREN

A walk to keep fossil fuels in the ground. The walk will start near Camp David and over seven days proceeds 63 miles, arriving at the White House on June 22. Contact Steve at earthsun2@gmail.com or Richard at firepeople@main.nc.us for more information.

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ONGOING EVENTS

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TUESDAY

Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 5 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.

Police Brutality Council (discussion) at 11 AM at Firestorm Cafe.

FRIDAY

Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville

SATURDAY

Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard.

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ACTIONS AND READINGS

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Stand up for Native Forests, Stop GE Trees

Resist the Tree Biotechnology 2013 Conference

May 26 - June 1

Asheville, NC

Join Katuah Earth First!, Global Justice Ecology Project and the STOP GE

Trees Campaign for a week of resistance to genetically engineered trees.

At the end of May the International Tree Biotechnology 2013 Conference is

taking place in Asheville, NC. This conference is a gathering of many of

the major players in the genetically engineered tree business and we

intend to greet them with spirited protest.

Timber and utility corporations want to plant millions of acres

genetically engineered trees throughout the South to burn for electricity,

as well as to continue supplying the unsustainable lumber and paper

industries. These trees would be engineered to produce their own

pesticides, grow straighter and faster, tolerate manufactured pesticides,

produce sterile seeds, and reduce lignin content (this is what makes the

wood in a tree strong enough to stand up). If these traits escaped into

native tree populations, the effects would be devastating and

irreversible.

The USDA is already considering approving an industry request to sell

billions of genetically engineered freeze tolerant eucalyptus trees.

These non-native, invasive and flammable trees pose an unprecedented

threat to the forests and communities of the Southern US.

We stand to lose tens of thousands of acres of our diverse and resilient

native forests to sterile monoculture tree plantations that support few if

any native species. These protests will send a critical message to the

USDA as they are poised to approve the first ever commercial planting of

genetically engineered eucalyptus trees in several southern states.

Join activists from around the country for an action packed week of

resistance to GE trees.  We are kicking off the week with a teach-in on

May 27 followed by a mass march to the conference center on May 28th. We

are organizing and encouraging affinity group actions throughout the week

to ensure the GE tree industry does not get a moment’s rest during their

stay in Asheville.

Please join us! You can help us fight GE trees right now by passing along

this call to action and by donating to:

https://npo.networkforgood.org/Donate/Donate.aspx?npoSubscriptionId=1004723

See you in the streets!

Please visit: www.treebiotech2013.org

Or contact: katuahearthfirst@riseup.net

******************

Letter to Bush in June 2005

In honor of the new Bush Lie-Bury, a look back at a letter I wrote to him years ago.

Letter to George Bush in June 2005:

How come no one was fired for the intelligence failures of 9/11?
How come no one was fired for the intelligence failures of claiming
WMDs were in Iraq?
How come no one was fired for the extremely poor post war planning in Iraq?
How come no one was fired for claiming that Saddam had something to do
with al Qaeda and 9/11?
How come no one was fired for the continuing hellish mess in Iraq?
How come no one was fired for all the scary things said about "smoking
guns" and "mushroom clouds" that were never true?
How come Powell was not fired for his performance in front of the UN?
How come I could figure out the there were no nuclear WMDs in Iraq way
back in 2002 and you could not?
How come I knew that any possible chemical or biological WMDs in Iraq
could not hurt the USA and you could not?
How come you have not resigned for all this lying and ineptitude?
Didn't Jesus say, "love your enemies" and "turn the other cheek"?
How come you claim to be "born again" in Jesus and you don't follow
his teachings at all?

No answer from him. 

Rise!

“Rise like Lions after slumber
“In unvanquishable number -
“Shake your chains to earth like dew
“Which in sleep had fallen on you -
“Ye are many – they are few.”

My Toxic Backyard....

"Work for Peace" by Gil Scott Heron

Back when Eisenhower was the President,

Golf courses was where most of his time was spent.

So I never really listened to what the President said,

Because in general I believed that the General was politically dead.

But he always seemed to know when the muscles were about to be flexed,

Because I remember him saying something, mumbling something about a Military Industrial Complex.

Americans no longer fight to keep their shores safe,

Just to keep the jobs going in the arms making workplace.

Then they pretend to be gripped by some sort of political reflex,

But all they're doing is paying dues to the Military Industrial Complex.

The Military and the Monetary,

The Military and the Monetary,

The Military and the Monetary.

The Military and the Monetary,

get together whenever they think its necessary,

They turn our brothers and sisters into mercenaries, they are turning the planet into a cemetery.

The Military and the Monetary, use the media as intermediaries,

they are determined to keep the citizens secondary, they make so many decisions that are arbitrary.

We're marching behind a commander in chief,

who is standing under a spotlight shaking like a leaf.

but the ship of state had landed on an economic reef,

so we knew he was going to bring us messages of grief.

The Military and the Monetary,

were shielded by January and went storming into February,

Brought us pot bellied generals as luminaries,

two weeks ago I hadn't heard of the son of a bitch,

now all of a sudden he's legendary.

They took the honour from the honourary,

they took the dignity from the dignitaries,

they took the secrets from the secretary,

but they left the bitch an obituary.

The Military and the Monetary,

from thousands of miles away in a Saudi Arabian sanctuary,

had us all scrambling for our dictionaries,

cause we couldn't understand the fuckin vocabulary.

Yeah, there was some smart bombs,

but there was some dumb ones as well,

scared the hell out of CNN in that Baghdad hotel.

The Military and the Monetary,

they get together whenever they think its necessary,

War in the desert sometimes sure is scary,

but they beamed out the war to all their subsidiaries.

Tried to make So Damn Insane a worthy adversary,

keeping the citizens secondary,

scaring old folks into coronaries.

The Military and the Monetary,

from thousands of miles in a Saudi Arabian sanctuary,

kept us all wondering if all of this was really truely, necessary.

We've got to work for Peace,

Peace ain't coming this way.

If we only work for Peace,

If everyone believed in Peace the way they say they do,

we'd have Peace.

The only thing wrong with Peace,

is that you can't make no money from it.

The Military and the Monetary,

they get together whenever they think its necessary,

they've turned our brothers and sisters into mercenaries,

they are turning the planet, into a cemetery.

Got to work for Peace,

Peace ain't coming this way.

We should not allow ourselves to be mislead,

by talk of entering a time of Peace,

Peace is not the absence of war,

it is the absence of the rules of war and the threats of war and the preparation for war.

Peace is not the absence of war,

it is the time when we will all bring ourselves closer to each other,

closer to building a structure that is unique within ourselves

because we have finally come to Peace within ourselves.

The Military and the Monetary,

The Military and the Monetary,

The Military and the Monetary.

Get together whenever they think its necessary,

they've turned our brothers and sisters into mercenaries,

they are turning parts of the planet, into a cemetery.

The Military and the Monetary,

The Military and the Monetary,

We hounded the Ayatollah religiously,

Bombed Libya and killed Quadafi's son hideously.

We turned our back on our allies the Panamanians,

and saw Ollie North selling guns to the Iranians.

Watched Gorbachev slaughtering Lithuanians,

We better warn the Amish,

they may bomb the Pennsylvanians.

The Military and the Monetary,

get together whenever they think its necessary,

they have turned our brothers and sisters into mercenaries,

they are turning the planet, into a cemetery.

I don't want to sound like no late night commercial,

but its a matter of fact that there are thousands of children all over the world

in Asia and Africa and in South America who need our help.

When they start talking about 55 cents a day and 70 cents a day,

I know a lot of folks feel as though that,

that's not really any kind of contribution to make,

but we had to give up a dollar and a half just to get in the subway nowadays.

So this is a song about tomorrow and about how tomorrow can be better. if we all,

"Each one reach one, Each one try to teach one".

Nobody can do everything,

but everybody can do something,

everyone must play a part,

everyone got to go to work, Work for Peace.

Spirit Say Work, Work for Peace

If you believe the things you say, go to work.

If you believe in Peace, time to go to work.

Cant be waving your head no more, go to work.

Upcoming events in the Asheville area this week

UPCOMING EVENTS

04/22/13 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE MOVIE

The FCUCC Earth Team, the UNCA Student Environmental Center, and Transition Asheville are sponsoring a movie called "The Age of Stupid" at 6:55 PM at UNCA's Karpen Hall. The Age of Stupid is a 90-minute film about climate change, set in the future. Oscar-nominated Pete Postlethwaite stars as a man living alone in the devasted world of 2055, looking back at “archive” footage from 2007 and asking: "Why didn’t we stop climate change when we had the chance?"

04/22/13 EARTH DAY EARTH SABBATH

Time is 7 to 8 PM and location is St. Mary’s Episcopal Church (in the new hall), 337 Charlotte St. All are welcome. The Earth Sabbath is a time to step out of our daily hectic lives and into a joyful celebration of the mystery and meaning of the universe; a time of sharing gratitude and appreciation for the gifts of creation; a time of lament, hope, and honoring our interdependency; a time of reverence and humility for the power of nature beyond our control; a time for community with people caring for creation; a time for nurturing and supporting the vision and creativity needed for the healing of the Earth and all those traveling upon her. For more information, contact Jean at larson_jean@hotmail.com.

04/25/13 FIRESTORM CAFE EVENT

“Workers of the World Unite - But Why?” with John McClain, UNCA professor of the humanities. He will discuss Marx’s concept of uniting the working class. Time is 7:30 PM and this is open to the public.

04/26/13 SISTER PREJEAN SPEAKING – AND AN OPERA: DEAD MAN WALKING

Sister Prejean will be speaking about abolishing the death penalty. Time is 2:30 to 3:30 PM at Lipinski Auditorium, UNCA. The movie “Dead Man Walking” was based on her life. Her talk will be called “Dead Man Walking – The Journey Continues”. Free. At 8 PM, there will be a presentation of an opera called “Dead Man Walking” (based on the book) at Lipinski Auditorium. Ticket prices for the general public start at $25. FMI: http://cesap.unca.edu/events/dead-man-walking-opera. There will also be a performance at WCU on 04/27/13.

04/26/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM AT UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

The film shown tonight will be “Brother Outsider, the Life of Bayard Rustin” in conjunction with the YWCA’s Stand Against Racism events. This film covers the life of a master strategist and tireless activist. He brought Gandhi’s protest techniques to the American civil rights movement, and was fired from important leadership positions because he was openly gay. 7 PM and location is the UU at Charlotte and Edwin Streets in Asheville. Donations accepted.

04/27/13 WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES

In pursuit of a community free from sexual violence, Our VOICE serves all individuals in Buncombe County affected by sexual assault through counseling, advocacy, and education. To register for the walk and for more information, go to  http://walkamileasheville.org/. Cost is $15. You can purchase High Heal shoes for $15 at Hip Replacements at 72 North Lexington Avenue

04/27/13 HARD 2 RECYCLE EVENT

Time is 8 AM to 1 PM and location is 161 S Charlotte Street. Free, public collections geared to bring awareness to other modes of recycling to our area. Five quarterly collection days, held as special events, in part to collect and divert items that would normally end up in the landfill, such as hard bulky plastics, styrofoam, electronics, books, blankets, batteries, cooking oil and much more. For more information, http://www.ashevillegreenworks.org/hard-2-recycle.html/.

04/27/13 SECOND ANNUAL EARTH STEWARDSHIP DAY

Second Annual Earth Stewardship Day in honor of Earth Day, 10 AN – 4 PM at Blue Ridge Community College. Various projects will take place until 2 PM and then all participants can reconvene until 4 PM for a large picnic and musical celebration.  Come join ECO and all its partners for a promising day of hands-on, environmental activities that will be enjoyed throughout the county for years to come. Volunteers should sign-up through ECO to participate in any of the projects. For more information, go to http://eco-wnc.org/category/calendar-events/calendar/.

04/27/13 REALLY, REALLY FREE MARKET       

This will be at Aston Park from 11 to 3 PM. Everything free. Leftover goods go to Beloved House.

04/28/13 STAND AGAINST RACISM

"The New Jim Crow - Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness" will be discussed at this Stand Against Racism event offered by the Ethical Society of Asheville, Sunday, April 28th, 2:00 - 4:00 at the Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood Road in north Asheville. This book, written by Michelle Alexander, makes the compelling argument that the huge racial disparity of punishment in America is the crisis of our time, has its roots in our country's slavery and Jim Crow periods and is the new front of the historic struggle for racial justice. Read the book now and be part of the discussion or come to hear the discussion of those who have read the book. All are welcome! For more information: 828 687-7759, ethicalsocietyasheville@gmail.com or www.meetup.com/Ethical-Society-of-Asheville

04/30/13 UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION – WNC CHAPTER

There will be a public meeting to explore the UN’s involvement in women’s issues with Dr. Lyndi Hewitt. “The UN, Civil Society, and Violence Against Women and Girls: Where are we now?  Dr. Hewitt is a professor at UNCA. She will present her findings and observations at 6:30 PM at the Mountain View Room at the Sherrill Center at UNCA. Admission is free. For more information, contact info@una-wnc.org.

05/01/13 SIERRA CLUB MEETING

Time is 7 PM (program starts at 7:15)at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Asheville (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Sierra Club will present a program Wednesday, May 1 at 7 pm  on how the land that became DuPont State Forest was protected from private development. The Blue Ghost Fireflies, one of the wonders of DuPont State Forest, will be also featured. Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

05/02/13 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING

Time is 6:30 PM and location is VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. VFP Chapter 099: http://vfpchapter099wnc.blogspot.com/

05/03/13 NATIONAL WAR TAX RESISTANCE GATHERING IN ASHEVILLE

The National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee (NWTRCC) will hold its National Gathering, at the Flood Fine Arts Center in the Phil Mechanics Building at 109 Roberts Street May 3rd through the 5th featuring workshops about War Tax Resistance, panels and keynote addresses by Cindy Sheehan and author David Swanson. A complete schedule of events and registration form with dates and times can be viewed at: http://www.nwtrcc.org/gatheringMay2013.php. David Swanson will present the keynote address on Friday May 3rd, 8pm at the Flood Fine Arts Center, in the River Arts District, 109 Roberts St. His presentation titled, “Lessons from an Overlooked Anti-War Movement” will center around thoughts from his various publications including “War is a Lie.” There will be a community potluck at 7 PM on Friday also. Cindy Sheehan's keynote address on Saturday May 4th, 8pm at the Flood Fine Arts Center, will detail examples of why “War Tax Resistance IS Courage” using material from her popular podcast titled “Cindy Sheehan's Soapbox.” How to go about refusing to pay taxes for war will be part of the program allowing for the audience to begin thinking about alternative methods for resisting taxes going to the military. THERE IS A NEED FOR HOSTS TO PROVIDE HOUSING - PLEASE CONTACT LOCAL ORGANIZERS AT NEWSOUTHNETWORK@GMAIL.COM OR CALL 828-301-6683.

05/06/13 GREEN PARTY MEETING

The Buncombe County GREEN Party's business meeting is open to the public. It is held on the first Monday of the month. Time is 6 PM and location is the Fortune Building (upstairs), at 729 Haywood Rd., West Asheville. Parking in back and on the street. Contact Ronald @ 828-LUCK-180 or Larry @ 828-225-4347 for more information.

05/09/13 ASHEVILLE RISING MEETING

Time will be 7 PM, location to be determined. More information to come.

05/10/13 CHILD WATCH TOUR – HOUSING MATTERS FOR KIDS

The tour, cosponsored by Children First/CIS and the Junior League of Asheville, offers a "field trip for adults" that educates and inspires leadership around important children and youth issues in our community. This year we'll explore how safe, affordable housing is a cornerstone for children's health and education. How can we make smart investments and policy decisions around housing? Join us on May 10th to find out. Time is 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Registration is limited, go here:  http://statevoices.salsalabs.com/o/512/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=430

05/10/13 SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM NIGHT AT UU CHURCH

“The Last Mountain: A Fight For Our Future” will be shown at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville at 7 PM. This is a film about Coal Mountain and the power of ordinary Americans who fight for what they believe in. It is a fight to stop mountain top removal. Donations accepted.

05/13/13 MOVE TO AMEND BUNCOMBE COUNTY

Time is 7 PM and location is Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville at Charlotte and Edwin Streets in the lower level meeting room. It shall be the mission of Move to Amend Buncombe County to create public demand for passage by the US Congress and ratification by the North Carolina Legislature, and those of other states, of a Constitutional Amendment reserving access to First Amendment protections to natural human beings and the press, defining speech as actual communication and authorizing Congress to regulate the raising and spending of political funds. Contact Lew at patrie.wncpsr@main.nc.us for more information.

05/16/13 MAHA COMES TO THE MOUNTAINS

Please join Medical Advocates for Healthy Air & the Western North Carolina Alliance for a dinner discussion and update on our state’s air quality. This is for MAHA staff and members, medical and health professionals, and others interested in the connections between air quality and human health. RSVP: Let Rebecca know at rebecca@cleanaircarolina.org if you will attend dinner at 6:30. Non-diners are welcome to attend the presentation at 7 PM. Location TBD.

05/18/13 GREEN GRANNIES ‘SING FOR THE CLIMATE’

Join the Green Grannies to "SING FOR THE CLIMATE". This is every third Saturday at 5 PM, Vance Monument.  See the video, singfortheclimate.com.

06/01/13 RALLY FOR BRADLEY MANNING AT FORT MEADE

http://www.bradleymanning.org/support_events/rally-for-bradley-at-fort-meade

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ONGOING EVENTS

*******************************************

TUESDAY

Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 5 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.

Police Brutality Council (discussion) at 11 AM at Firestorm Cafe.

FRIDAY

Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville

SATURDAY

Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard.

*******************************************

ACTIONS AND READINGS

*******************************************

FROM THE EISENHOWER CHAPTER OF VETERANS FOR PEACE:

Sunday, April 28, 7:30 am:  We will meet in the parking lot on the west side of the NC capital in Raleigh to launch the 2013 Sam’s Ride for Peace, a 7 day bicycle ride from Raleigh to Washington DC.  We’re still looking for volunteer riders and supporters for parts or the whole of the ride.

Sam Winstead Rides for Peace Again 2013

http://www.ncveteransforpeace.org/archive/SamRide2013.html

A video of Sam's Ride for Peace 2012 is on You Tube. (WORTH WATCHING! INSPIRING!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwd2pdZLTEY&feature=youtu.be

If anyone is interested in joining or just going to the send-off, Sam Winstead, WWII Vet, will again ride for peace, NC to DC, April 28 – May 3, 2013, leaving NC Capitol Sunday morning, April 28.

More info/application here: www.ncveteransforpeace.org or call John Heuer at 919-444-3823 or email heu93@aol.com.

******************

Petition to get CTS to clean up their mess in south Asheville:

We the undersigned ask CTS Corporation to pay for a full scale cleanup of the toxic chemicals leaching into the soil, water, and air surrounding the CTS of Asheville site. The delays have gone on long enough. Do the corporate socially responsible thing and clean up the mess. It should not take a government / EPA action to force you to take care of the toxins leaching into the environment of this mountain community.

http://signon.org/sign/cts-site-fullscale-cleanup/?source=search

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> Hello All!

> My name is Jesse Kitt and I co-lead a women's service organization (The Sophia Group) through the local UCC church Land of Sky. We are very focused on the exponentially positive effects that empowering women can and does have on entire communities and indeed the world.

> We have organized another local screening of the incredible new film, Girl Rising, at the Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15. The film was created by 10x10, a global campaign to educate and empower girls.

> If you missed the screening at Beaucatcher on Easter, here is another opportunity to see this important film! The film is rated pg-13 and this would be a wonderful activity (and educational opportunity) for Mother's to share with their pre-teen-ish and teenage daughters!

> Girl Rising tells the stories of 9 girls from around the world who face - and overcome - unbelievable obstacles on the path toward getting an education. Each girl’s story was written by an author and is narrated by a cast of great actresses, including Meryl Streep, Kerry Washington, Anne Hathaway, Salma Hayek, Alicia Keys, and others. The cinematography is stunning and I really am excited to see the film, and to be involved in a global effort for girl’s education.

> First, watch the trailer: http://10x10act.org/girl-rising/

> You can sign up to buy a ticket for the movie here:

> http://gathr.us/screening/3211

> A portion of Girl Rising ticket sales will help fund programs for girls, so seeing the film literally makes an impact on girls’ lives.

> I’m planning the screening for Thursday May 16th at 7:30 pm at the Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15 in Biltmore Park.

> Please sign up ASAP to see the movie and tell your friends to do the same! The film can only be screened if at least 100 people sign up to see it. You will only be charged for your ticket if we succeed in booking the screening.

> Here’s the link again:

> http://gathr.us/screening/3211

> Feel pass this email along to friends and neighbors!

******************

War Crimes Times Seeking Stories:  Children as Victims of War

The War Crimes Times(WCT) is seeking submissions for its summer issue. WCT wants to present an emotional appeal to the (missing) American conscience through empathy for children as victims of war.

Consider submitting articles, poetry, artwork, or photos to  mark@WarCrimesTimes.org.

******************

Sam starts his next ride for peace on Sunday!

This video is from his ride back in 2012.





FROM THE EISENHOWER CHAPTER OF VETERANS FOR PEACE:

Sunday, April 28, 7:30 am:  We will meet in the parking lot on the west side of the NC capital in Raleigh to launch the 2013 Sam’s Ride for Peace, a 7 day bicycle ride from Raleigh to Washington DC.  We’re still looking for volunteer riders and supporters for parts or the whole of the ride.

Sam Winstead Rides for Peace Again 2013

If anyone is interested in joining or just going to the send-off, Sam Winstead, WWII Vet, will again ride for peace, NC to DC, April 28 – May 3, 2013, leaving NC Capitol Sunday morning, April 28.

More info/application here: www.ncveteransforpeace.org or call John Heuer at 919-444-3823 or email heu93@aol.com.

In agreement.....

Water of a new life

“Along what secret aqueduct, oh water, are you coming to me now, water of a new life that I have never drunk before?” – Antonio Machado

Veterans for Peace are aware of what is going on

The truly educated become conscious. They become self-aware. They do not lie to themselves. They do not pretend that fraud is moral or that corporate greed is good. They do not claim that the demands of the marketplace can morally justify the hunger of children or denial of medical care to the sick. They do not throw 6 million families from their homes as the cost of doing business. Thought is a dialogue with one's inner self. Those who think ask. - Chris Hedges