March from Selma to DC

Sure wish I could go on this one.

More war in Iraq

I guess really ending our war of aggression on Iraq was not good enough. So now our President is sending more troops there and doing some more bombing.

May God forgive him for this evil. I certainly do not.

Upcoming events for the week of June 28, 2015

The Matthews-Murkland Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, N.C. was burned down in an act of arson in June of 1996. (Chuck Burton / AP). There have been eight black churches burned in the US south in the past couple of weeks. Three have been confirmed as arson. This is shameful. This is America.

UPCOMING EVENTS

06/30/16 CANARY COALITION FUNDRAISER IN SYLVA

The Canary Coalition to Hold its Second Annual “WAKE-UP” Event, June 30th. Live performance, “music of the movement” and a silent auction to raise money for the grassroots organization. Location is the Jackson County Public Library Community Room, at 310 Keener Street in Sylva. Time is 6 - 8:30 PM. This year, in addition to the high-energy sing-along and silent auction, there will be a live performance by critically acclaimed actress Barbara Bates Smith as “Granny D”, the 90+ year old woman who walked across America to raise public awareness about the need for campaign finance reform. Also on the agenda is a silent auction of items including original artwork, gift certificates for stays at local Inns, valuable first editions of author-signed books, massages and other donated goods and services. The WAKE-UP event is free and open to the public. Donations will be gratefully accepted at the door. For more information about The Canary Coalition and this event contact 828-631-3447 or info@canarycoalition.org.

07/01/15 NO GREEN DRINKS/SIERRA CLUB MEETING

07/06/15 DINNER WITH PROGRESSIVES

Please join us this Monday night at Green Sage in Westgate in Asheville. Dinner is at 5:30 PM and program will be  from 6 to 7 PM. Please RSVP with Cheryl so she can give a headcount to Green Sage. Her email is ctorengo@gmail.com.  

07/08/15 CIVICS OF JUSTICE FILM SERIES

Democracy North Carolina and Working Films are collaborating to launch the Civics of Justice Films Series. The month-long screening series will bring newly released and award-winning documentaries to ten cities across North Carolina during the month of July. The screenings and dialogues will help local community members develop a deeper analysis of the relationship between civic engagement and issues including criminal justice and policing, environmental justice, and economic justice. This film will be “Ferguson: A Report from Occupied Territory”. The film documents the aftermath in Ferguson, Missouri following the death of Michael Brown and highlights the complexity of local municipal politics and the activism of Black Lives Matter.  After the Department of Justice released a blistering report finding systematic racism and prejudice against blacks in the Ferguson Police Department, protests continued, the police chief and several Ferguson officials resigned, and two police officers were injured in a shooting. This problem, however, is not unique to Ferguson. St. Louis County is made of around 90 municipalities, each with their own police departments and courts. Residents report similar discriminatory treatment at the hands of law enforcement. And with so many different jurisdictions, a small infraction like an expired license plate can turn into dozens of fines and eventually warrants. Those in St. Louis who live below the poverty line are faced with the reality of buying food or paying fines. The documentary turns to the residents of St. Louis County to tell what it’s like to be racially profiled and under siege. Following the one-hour film, there will be a discussion and Q&A. Other sponsoring organizations include the Racial Equity Institute, Green Opportunities, Mountain People’s Assembly and the Racial Justice Coalition. Free and open to the public. Location is A-B Tech in Ferguson Auditorium at 340 Victoria Road in Asheville. Time is 6 to 8 PM.

07/08/15 GREEN DRINKS

A Solution to Climate Change that will Grow our Economy. Citizens’ Climate Lobby believe that politicians don’t create political will, they respond to it! This international grassroots advocacy organization has worked tirelessly over the past few years focusing on national policies to address climate change. Brad & Steffi, lead organizers for two local CCL chapters, will explain how their proposed solution, called Carbon Fee & Dividend, will work to mitigate carbon emissions as well as grow our economy, jobs, and GDP. Brad Rouse is a lead organizer and Congressional Liaison for the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and an independent consultant in the fields of energy policy, energy planning, and energy efficiency. Steffi Rausch is lead organizer for the Asheville Citizens’ Climate Lobby as well as owner of Evolv, a local web design & development company. Location: The Green Sage at 5 Broadway Street in downtown Asheville. Socializing: 5:30 PM Programming: 6 PM

07/11/15 CITIZEN’S CLIMATE LOBBY MEETING

Next monthly meeting will be on Saturday, July11th from  12:30 - 3 PM at Kairos West Community Center at 742 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Contact Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter at asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.

07/11/15 MALAPROPS PRESENTATION

A professor of economics at Southern Methodist University, Dr. Ravi Batra and his work have appeared in the New York Times, Newsweek, and the U.S. News and World Report, among many others. His book, End Unemployment Now “offers practicable solutions to many of the economic problems plaguing America,” according to Publishers Weekly. Dr. Batra is the author of several other books including The New Golden Age: The Coming Revolution Against Political Corruption and Economic Chaos. Time is 7 PM, and location is Malaprops in downtown Asheville.

07/13/15 to 07/25/15 DRONE QUILT PROJECT IN ASHEVILLE

The Drone Quilt Project has been approved by the Asheville Area Arts Council and will be exhibited at their Grove Arcade gallery from July 13 to July 25, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Veterans for Peace Chapter 099, WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility and Just Peace for Israel/Palestine will be co-sponsoring this event. Please contact Ken at jonesk@maine.edu or call 207-233-3087 for more information.

07/13/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement.  Time is 6 PM. Location is Roberson High School. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

07/13/15 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE SOCIAL

Transition Asheville Social: Is Local Resilient? Scale, Sustainability and Resilience of the U.S. Food Supply by Laura Lengnick. Most of the activity around sustainable and resilient community redesign has focused at the local scale, including newly emerging climate change adaptation efforts, but is local the foundation of a sustainable and resilient future?  Recent research suggests that reorienting development efforts to the regional scale may offer more sustainability and resilience benefits. Time is 6:30 to 8 PM. Location is Parish Hall at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Charlotte Street in Asheville. 

07/13/15 BUS TO VOTER RIGHTS MARCH IN WINSTON-SALEM

Bus tickets available to the Voter Rights Rally in Winston-Salem on Monday, July 13. $25 round trip from Asheville. Leaving at 1 PM and returning about 10 PM. Pick up location TBD. To purchase tickets via Paypal, www.mountainmoralmonday.org and scroll down to "Donate" link. Be sure to let us know how many tickets and names of riders. If you prefer to mail a check, make payable to Mountain Voices Alliance, PO Box 8052, Asheville, NC 28814. Please also include a note with number of tickets and names of riders, as well as a cell phone number. For more information, go the website listed above. This is sponsored by the Mountain People’s Assemby. 

07/14/15 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING

Time is 6:30 PM and location is VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. 

07/18/15 SIERRA CLUB ANNUAL PICNIC

Location is the Blue Ridge Parkway sheltered picnic grounds (Bull Mt. Rd. off Riceville Rd.) Time is noon to 4 PM. Directions: Exit 7 on I-240; go east on Tunnel Rd for 2 miles; turn north on Riceville Rd; go 1.3 miles and turn west on Bull Mt. Rd. The fenced-in, sheltered picnic area is on the left about ½ mile up the road. Please bring a potluck dish to share and your own settings. Drinks will be provided. 

07/21/15 MIND THE GAP TOUR

These informational tours are organized by Children First/Communities in Schools of Buncombe County. The tours are held each month and last about 1 hour. They are led by the Executive Director of Children First/Communities in Schools, Allison Jordan, and you get to meet some of the children that are served through the summer camp program, as well as become informed on all of the programs that are  provided, including our advocacy work. The goal is to alleviate the barriers of poverty experienced by local children and families. This includes food pantry, emergency financial assistance, clothing closet, and work on public policy at the local and state level. Time is 8 AM. To reserve a seat on the bus for the tour or for more information, contact Kaitlyn at KaitlynB@childrenfirstbc.org or call 828-259-9717.

07/21/15 PANEL DISCUSSION/RECEPTION ON DRONE QUILT EXHIBIT

This will be held at the Grove Arcade Gallery from 5 to 7 PM. Ken Ashe of Veterans for Peace and Bill Ramsey of Just Peace Israel/Palestine will be discussing drones and their impacts. Free and open to the public. More information to follow. Please contact Ken at jonesk@maine.edu or call 207-233-3087 for more information.

07/23/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP MEETING IN HENDERSONVILLE

Catch up on the environmental outcomes of this legislative session, current priorities, and how you can get involved in holding our lawmakers accountable to the public they serve. For more information and to RSVP http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/2015-legislative-wrap-ups. Time is 6 – 8 PM and location is The Taproom at Monte’s at 2024-G Asheville Highway in Hendersonville (I saw another listing with a different location, so please check.)

 07/30/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP MEETING IN ASHEVILLE

Catch up on the environmental outcomes of this legislative session, current priorities, and how you can get involved in holding our lawmakers accountable to the public they serve. For more information and to RSVP http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/2015-legislative-wrap-ups. Time is 6 – 8 PM and location is Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar in the Grove Arcade.

07/31/15 ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE FOOD POLICY COUNCIL

Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council will host a Meeting Of The Whole: A Celebration of Interdependence. Time is 6 - 9 PM and location is Stephens Lee Recreation Center in Asheville. We will gather to plant seeds for capacity building and strengthening our local food security movement in a Collective Impact framework, and to celebrate our growth as a community dedicated to a sustainable food system.

08/05/15 SIERRA CLUB MEETING

Sierra Club meeting on Waterfalls & Wildflowers - join us for Timothy Spira's presentation on "Exploring Waterfalls & Wildflowers in the Southern Appalachian Mountains".  Tim's latest book is Waterfalls and Wildflowers in the Southern Appalachians: Thirty Great Hikes. Tim is emeritus professor of botany at Clemson University. Location is Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place, (corner of Charlotte & Edwin). Time is 7 PM.  Contact: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, or 828-683-2176 for more information.

08/06/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement. Location is North Buncombe High School. Time is 6 PM. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

08/06/15 CLEAN ENERGY IN THE MOUNTAINS EVENT 

Clean Energy in the Mountains is back! Come have a beer with us on August 6th at Highland Brewing Company on Old Charlotte Highway in Asheville. This event will gather NC Sustainable Energy Association members and clean energy leaders from across the Southeast as we recognize the forward progress happening in the western North Carolina region and beyond. Enjoy local catering and a Highland beer while connecting with friends and colleagues. Please register by Monday, August 3rd. Find out how to register, or ask for more information from Christy at christy@energync.org or 919-832-7601 ext 111. Time is 5:30 to 8:30 PM.

08/06/15 CREATION CARE ALLIANCE GENERAL MEETING

All are welcome to take a moment to listen to one another, renew our spirits and learn about ways to engage the work of caring for creation.  Join us! Location is First Baptist Church of Asheville at 5 Oak Street in downtown Asheville and time is 5:30 to 7 PM. Be a part of the conversation. Call (828) 258-8737 or email: creationcare@mountaintrue.org for more information.

08/08/15 HIROSHIMA REMEMBRANCE IN OAK RIDGE TN

There will be more information to come on this event and there will likely be carpooling from Asheville.

08/20/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement. Location is Owen High School. Time is 6 PM. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

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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 1 PM at A-Hope on North Ann Street in Asheville.  

Youth Outright Poetry Night at United Church of Christ in Asheville at 5 PM

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 Pritchard Park at 5 PM.

SUNDAY

Youth OUTright meeting from 4 to 6 PM at First Congregational United Church of Christ at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. Ages 14 - 23 only.

Happy Birthday, Helen Keller!

“So long as I confine my activities to social service and the blind, they compliment me extravagantly, calling me 'arch priestess of the sightless,' 'wonder woman,' and a 'modern miracle.' But when it comes to a discussion of poverty, and I maintain that it is the result of wrong economics—that the industrial system under which we live is at the root of much of the physical deafness and blindness in the world—that is a different matter! It is laudable to give aid to the handicapped. Superficial charities make smooth the way of the prosperous; but to advocate that all human beings should have leisure and comfort, the decencies and refinements of life, is a Utopian dream, and one who seriously contemplates its realization indeed must be deaf, dumb, and blind.” — Helen Keller (letter to Senator Robert La Follette, 1924)

Just Say No.

Other voices: Statement by United for Peace & Justice

War in Ukraine

The Ukraine conflict continues to fester, raising tensions in the region to levels not seen since the Cold War. Now the warring parties have agreed to a ceasefire and an approach to further negotiations towards a political solution. Despite this opportunity to move towards peace, the United States, NATO, and Russia are throwing fuel on the fire. The U.S. is sending troops to Ukraine to train Ukraine’s armed forces, NATO is holding joint military maneuvers from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and Russia is conducting massive exercises of its own that include forward deployment of nuclear-capable missiles and bombers. It’s time for the countries that are providing support from outside Ukraine to halt and reverse all actions that contribute to this war and to the growing confrontation in Europe.

The Ukraine conflict has become a complex proxy war involving four of the world’s five original nuclear armed countries: the United States, Russia, France, and the United Kingdom. The extent of support provided by outside powers remains unclear, obscured by virulent nonstop propaganda campaigns promulgated by all sides. The Ukraine war has also become both a cause and an excuse for the ratcheting up of tensions between the U.S. and its NATO allies and Russia.

In addition to the immediate dangers of war, the climate of confrontation has put further progress towards nuclear disarmament on hold. It also has given the military-industrial complexes on both sides a rationale for the resumption of conventional arms racing and nuclear weapons modernization. The people of the Ukraine are the victims, their country a battleground of competing plutocracies.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has moved the hands of its Doomsday Clock up to 3 minutes to midnight, citing the existential threats posed by nuclear weapons and climate change.It’s time to step back from the brink. We call on all of the governments involved to take steps to reduce tensions, to lessen the danger of an expanded war, and to provide space and build confidence for negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict and the growing confrontation between Russia and the U.S. and its NATO allies. 

These steps should include:

• No military assistance to Ukraine, whether arms, trainers, advisors, or “nonlethal” aid;

• Unconditional humanitarian assistance directed to ordinary people in all of Ukraine’s regions, sustaining social benefits and public services and aiding in reconstruction of housing and public infrastructure;

• Diplomatic initiatives to encourage Ukrainians engaged in the conflict to enter into good faith negotiations in an effort to reach a political resolution;

• No additional deployments of U.S. forces, equipment, or supplies to Europe;

• Reversal of NATO decisions to expand rapid reaction forces and supporting infrastructure in Eastern Europe, and particularly in states on Russia’s borders;

• Termination of U.S. programs to deploy U.S. ballistic missile defenses in Europe;

• A moratorium on military exercises by all parties in and around Ukraine and European states bordering Russia;

• A moratorium on exercises and tests of nuclear-armed forces world-wide;

• Immediate removal of U.S. nuclear weapons from Europe; 

In this 70th year since the U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and 45 years after the U.S., Russia, and the U.K. committed in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty to negotiate in good faith for an end of the nuclear arms race and the elimination of nuclear arsenals, immediate commencement of negotiations encompassing all nuclear-armed states for the elimination of nuclear weapons. [This came from an email from United for Peace & Justice.]

Statement

STATEMENT FROM THE MOVEMENT FOR BLACK LIVES ON CHARLESTON SHOOTING

Charleston’s Emanuel A.M.E. church, which is steeped in the incredible history of resistance to slavery, will now be known as the site of an unspeakable and tragic act. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed. We also keep in our thoughts a congregation that lost its pastor and a community mourning the loss of its neighbors.

We are reminded today that while our attention has focused on increasing state and police violence against Black people, racist vigilante attacks are a large part of this country’s legacy. We must face the hard truth that our collective work goes much further than the implementation of body cameras and police reform initiatives if we cannot even be safe worshipping at church.

Whether its the murder of four schoolgirls at a Birmingham church in 1963, the killing of twelve year old Tamir Rice by Cleveland police officers, or the suicide of Kalief Browder after years of being unjustly imprisoned and tortured as a teenager at Rikers Island jail– our communities continue to suffer the many strains of a cancerous racism allowed to flourish in this country. While the arrest of this shooter must come as a small comfort to the families of those killed, we know we cannot arrest our way out of this country’s history or its present.

Therefore, as a movement, we must say what our President cannot or will not say. This was an undeniable act of terrorism intended to strike fear into the hearts of Black communities at a time when we have bravely stood together declaring that #BlackLivesMatter everywhere.

We continue to fight for a world that values Black life in the names of all those we have lost, including and especially those who were killed last night on a date we will surely never forget.

SIGNED,

The Movement for Black Lives Team, including:

Ferguson Action

Black Lives Matter

Black Youth Project 100 (BYP 100)

Million Hoodies Movement for Justice

ColorOfChange.org

Project South

Ohio Students Association

Baltimore United for Change

Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle

Concerned Citizens for Justice

ENDORSED BY:

Center for Media Justice

CREDO

Democracy for America

Media Action Grassroots Network

Dignity and Power Now

Media Mobilizing Project

Voices for Racial Justice

Global Action Project

Media Literacy Project

Showing Up for Racial Justice

Whistleblowers in the USA speak out

The Confederate Flag is a symbol of hatred and slavery and treason.

And it needs to come down in South Carolina. There are several petitions going around to insist on this, and I will be calling the SC governor's office today to tell them what I think. I will not visit SC until this hateful and treasonous flag comes down.

Upcoming events for the week of June 21, 2015

UPCOMING EVENTS

06/22/15 VIGIL FOR VOTING RIGHTS AND VICTIMS OF CHARLESTON MASS SHOOTING

Asheville: Monday, June 22, 5 PM, Congregation Beth HaTephila at 43 N. Liberty Street. In 1964, dozens of young civil rights activists traveled to Mississippi to defy state-sponsored voter suppression, in what became known as Freedom Summer. Three of them lost their lives. Their murders shocked the nation and galvanized support for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Yet, two years ago, in the Supreme Court’s ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, the enforcement mechanisms of this landmark civil rights legislation were gutted. This ruling halted the federal government’s ability to monitor and preempt discriminatory voting practices, resulting in a national wave of voter suppression laws. We are horrified by the mass murder in Charleston, SC, an act of domestic terror apparently motivated by white supremacy. Our sincere prayers and condolences are offered to the families and friends of State Sen. Clementa Pinckney, Cynthia Hurd, Tywanza Sanders, Sharonda Singleton, Myra Thompson, Ethel Lance, Susie Jackson, the Rev. Daniel Simmons Sr., and DePayne Doctor. May their memories be for a blessing and may their mourners be comforted. In light of this tragic event, this voting rights vigil will incorporate remembrances of the dead in Charleston. This event is sponsored by Carolina Jews for Justice.

06/22/15 - 06/30/15 SUPREME COURT DECISION DAY 

We will gather the night of the US Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality. Whatever the outcome is, we want to be with our Asheville family. Time will be 5 - 6 PM to gather at Vance Monument and then we will go to Pack's Tavern in downtown Asheville from 6:30 to 8 PM. This is from a facebook event. This is organized by the Campaign for Southern Equality. Supreme Court decision is expected in late June, but exact date is not known at this time. 

06/22/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement, the first one coming up Monday, June 22, at 6 PM. Location is the cafeteria at Erwin High School, sheriff’s office spokeswoman Natalie Bailey said. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

06/22/15 ASHEVILLE N.O.W. WORK SESSION

If you're fired up and need somewhere for all that energy to go, get off your duff and join us at 6:30 PM on Monday, June 22, at La Carreta at Beaver Lake on Merrimon Avenue. We've got a sad state of affairs on our hands. Women's rights are being stripped away faster than the straps on a prom dress, and NOW members are sitting at home worrying like there's nothing to be done but wait. No more. If you want TRANSFORMATION. If you want to pull out all the stops. Then you want to be part of this core group that is committed to BEING the difference. RSVP so we can save you a chair at nowasheville@gmail.com. 

06/23/15 PEACE DAY PLANNING MEETING

Location is the North Asheville Community Center (basement level) at 37 E Larchmont Road in Asheville. Time is 6 PM. Come and help plan Peace Day in western North Carolina. 

06/23/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL

There will be food and drinks and a raffle, and tickets can be purchased through Asheville Community Theater at 828-254-1320. Time is 6:30 to 9 PM, films start at 7 PM. Location is Asheville Community Theater at 35 East Walnut Street in Asheville. For more information, contact MountainTrue’s AmeriCorps Education & Outings Coordinator Rachel Stevens at (828) 258-8737, ext. 215 or rachel@mountaintrue.org.

06/23/15 MIND THE GAP TOUR

These informational tours are organized by Children First/Communities in Schools of Buncombe County. The tours are held each month and last about 1 hour. They are led by the Executive Director of Children First/Communities in Schools, Allison Jordan, and you get to meet some of the children that are served through the summer camp program, as well as become informed on all of the programs that are  provided, including our advocacy work. The goal is to alleviate the barriers of poverty experienced by local children and families. This includes food pantry, emergency financial assistance, clothing closet, and work on public policy at the local and state level. Time is 8 AM. To reserve a seat on the bus for the tour or for more information, contact Kaitlyn at KaitlynB@childrenfirstbc.org or call 828-259-9717.

06/24/15 GREEN DRINKS 

On June 24th, Lenoir-Rhyne University Sustainability Studies graduate student Alisha Goodman will be discussing her capstone project “Community based social marketing for sustainable materials management in Downtown Asheville.” In partnership with the City of Asheville’s Office of Sustainability, Alisha Goodman has been exploring the barriers and benefits to sustainable waste management practices by businesses in Downtown Asheville. The purpose of the project is to develop recommendations for the City to enhance its Zero Waste AVL Recycling program. This presentation will serve as a review of her findings thus far, as well as an opportunity for commercial stakeholders to offer feedback on strategy development. Socializing at 5:30 PM and programming at 6 PM. Location is The Green Sage in downtown Asheville.

06/25/15 PREVIEW OF UPCOMING ART & EDUCATION EXHIBIT

You are invited to preview the “Americans Who Tell The Truth - NC” exhibit coming to Asheville in the fall of 2015. This is a traveling art exhibit featuring a diverse cross-section of more than 50 portraits of courageous Americans paint by artist Robert Sheerly. The portraits and accompanying narratives highlight citizens who have (or are now) courageously addressing issues of social, environmental and economic fairness. Mingle and view art from 6:30 to 7:15 PM, and there will then be a short presentation about the exhibit at 7:15 to 8 PM. Location is the Historic Kenilworth Inn at 60 Caledonia Road in Asheville. RSVP to AWTTNC@gmail.com or call 828-273-1781.

06/25/15 GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF ASHEVILLE MUSICAL

This June's concert is a very special and moving performance for Cantaria: The Gay Men's Chorus of Asheville. “Alexander's House” tells a funny, heartbreaking and touching one-act story by composer Michael Shaieb about a gay man whose death brings together friends, family and a long-lost son. The story is about a gay man, Alex, who died and left the title house — his vacation beach house — to a long-estranged, straight son, Sam. Awaiting the son’s arrival are Alex’s longtime partner, Carson, and another couple who shared the house, Willoughby and Joey. The gay men fret that the son, as a straight 25-year-old man, is nothing more than a stereotypical lug. When the young man arrives and proves to be a lot different and more understanding than their preconceived notions had anticipated, the three older men are taken aback. It's about love, parents, children, and family. I hope you'll be able to attend one of our two performances. Time is 7:30 PM and location is First Congregational United Church of Christ at 20 Oak Street in downtown Asheville. Ticket information at CantariaAsheville.org. This musical is repeated on 06/28/15 at 4 PM.

06/26/15 TOWNS THAT ARE REDUCING THEIR PESTICIDE FOOTPRINT

This free, four-part series will take place on the last Friday of March, April, May and June. This is the third part of the four-part series. The series runs as follows: June 26: It All Starts At Home: Alternatives to Chemical Pesticides. Sessions are being held at the Center for Graduate Studies of Asheville - Lenoir-Rhyne University from 6:00 to 9:00 PM on the above dates. It is our intention to celebrate Asheville as a city in transition, a city willing to take a hard look at what it’s going to take to create the kind of resiliency necessary for a sustainable future.In addition to educating our citizenry – and no doubt learning from you all as well – we want to draw attention to the need for city governments to set an example and model best practices in pest management. Light refreshments will be served each evening. We are looking for volunteers and additional sponsors to cover refreshments. Tabling is free, so please do consider sharing your passion with like-minded folk. Time is 6 to 9 PM and location is Lenoir Rhyne University on Montford Avenue in Asheville. They will be using the second floor boardroom. This is a facebook event, and since it is multi-day, you probably want to sign up if you are interested in this topic.

06/26/15 JUST PEACE FOR ISRAEL/PALESTINE MEETING

This meeting will be at 3:15 PM at Brooks-Howell Home on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. Meet in the media room. 

06/27/15 BOOK PRESENTATION IN WAYNESVILLE

Faustine Wilson, daughter of the late Victoria Casey McDonald, will present Victoria’s last novel, “Living in the Shadow of Slavery”, at Blue Ridge Books on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 3 PM. Living in the Shadow of Slavery continues the story of her great-grandmother, Amanda, whose story began in the novel Under the Lights of Darkness. As a slave of William Holland Thomas, Amanda faces uncertain times now that the Civil War has ended and all slaves have been declared free. Having never known freedom, she and her family must make difficult decisions on how best to survive in this new existence. Faustine will also discuss a bit of the history of slavery in western North Carolina and the legacy of Victoria. Blue Ridge Books is located at 152 S. Main St. in Waynesville, NC. Call (828) 456-6000 for more information.

07/01/15 NO GREEN DRINKS

07/06/15 DINNER WITH PROGRESSIVES

Please join us this Monday night at Green Sage in Westgate in Asheville. Dinner is at 5:30 PM and program will be  from 6 to 7 PM. Please RSVP with Cheryl so she can give a headcount to Green Sage. Her email is ctorengo@gmail.com.  

07/11/15 CITIZEN’S CLIMATE LOBBY MEETING

Next monthly meeting will be on Saturday, July11th from  12:30 - 3 PM at Kairos West Community Center at 742 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Contact Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter at asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.

07/11/15 MALAPROPS PRESENTATION

A professor of economics at Southern Methodist University, Dr. Ravi Batra and his work have appeared in the New York Times, Newsweek, and the U.S. News and World Report, among many others. His book, End Unemployment Now “offers practicable solutions to many of the economic problems plaguing America,” according to Publishers Weekly. Dr. Batra is the author of several other books including The New Golden Age: The Coming Revolution Against Political Corruption and Economic Chaos. Time is 7 PM, and location is Malaprops in downtown Asheville.

07/13/15 to 07/25/15 DRONE QUILT PROJECT IN ASHEVILLE

The Drone Quilt Project has been approved by the Asheville Area Arts Council and will be exhibited at their Grove Arcade gallery from July 13 to July 25, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Veterans for Peace Chapter 099, WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility and Just Peace for Israel/Palestine will be co-sponsoring this event. Please contact Ken at jonesk@maine.edu or call 207-233-3087 for more information.

07/13/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement.  Time is 6 PM. Location is Roberson High School. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

07/13/15 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE SOCIAL

Transition Asheville Social: Is Local Resilient? Scale, Sustainability and Resilience of the U.S. Food Supply by Laura Lengnick. Most of the activity around sustainable and resilient community redesign has focused at the local scale, including newly emerging climate change adaptation efforts, but is local the foundation of a sustainable and resilient future?  Recent research suggests that reorienting development efforts to the regional scale may offer more sustainability and resilience benefits. Time is 6:30 to 8 PM. Location is Parish Hall at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Charlotte Street in Asheville. 

07/18/15 SIERRA CLUB ANNUAL PICNIC

Location is the Blue Ridge Parkway sheltered picnic grounds (Bull Mt. Rd. off Riceville Rd.) Time is noon to 4 PM. Directions: Exit 7 on I-240; go east on Tunnel Rd for 2 miles; turn north on Riceville Rd; go 1.3 miles and turn west on Bull Mt. Rd. The fenced-in, sheltered picnic area is on the left about ½ mile up the road. Please bring a potluck dish to share and your own settings. Drinks will be provided. 

07/21/15 MIND THE GAP TOUR

These informational tours are organized by Children First/Communities in Schools of Buncombe County. The tours are held each month and last about 1 hour. They are led by the Executive Director of Children First/Communities in Schools, Allison Jordan, and you get to meet some of the children that are served through the summer camp program, as well as become informed on all of the programs that are  provided, including our advocacy work. The goal is to alleviate the barriers of poverty experienced by local children and families. This includes food pantry, emergency financial assistance, clothing closet, and work on public policy at the local and state level. Time is 8 AM. To reserve a seat on the bus for the tour or for more information, contact Kaitlyn at KaitlynB@childrenfirstbc.org or call 828-259-9717.

07/21/15 PANEL DISCUSSION/RECEPTION ON DRONE QUILT EXHIBIT

This will be held at the Grove Arcade Gallery from 5 to 7 PM. Ken Ashe of Veterans for Peace and Bill Ramsey of Just Peace Israel/Palestine will be discussing drones and their impacts. Free and open to the public. More information to follow. Please contact Ken at jonesk@maine.edu or call 207-233-3087 for more information.

07/23/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP MEETING IN HENDERSONVILLE

Catch up on the environmental outcomes of this legislative session, current priorities, and how you can get involved in holding our lawmakers accountable to the public they serve. For more information and to RSVP http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/2015-legislative-wrap-ups. Time is 6 – 8 PM and location is The Taproom at Monte’s at 2024-G Asheville Highway in Hendersonville.

 07/30/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP MEETING IN ASHEVILLE

Catch up on the environmental outcomes of this legislative session, current priorities, and how you can get involved in holding our lawmakers accountable to the public they serve. For more information and to RSVP http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/2015-legislative-wrap-ups. Time is 6 – 8 PM and location is Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar in the Grove Arcade.

07/31/15 ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE FOOD POLICY COUNCIL

Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council will host a Meeting Of The Whole: A Celebration of Interdependence. Time is 6 - 9 PM and location is Stephens Lee Recreation Center in Asheville. We will gather to plant seeds for capacity building and strengthening our local food security movement in a Collective Impact framework, and to celebrate our growth as a community dedicated to a sustainable food system.

08/06/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement. Location is North Buncombe High School. Time is 6 PM. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

08/06/15 CLEAN ENERGY IN THE MOUNTAINS EVENT 

Clean Energy in the Mountains is back! Come have a beer with us on August 6th at Highland Brewing Company on Old Charlotte Highway in Asheville. This event will gather NC Sustainable Energy Association members and clean energy leaders from across the Southeast as we recognize the forward progress happening in the western North Carolina region and beyond. Enjoy local catering and a Highland beer while connecting with friends and colleagues. Please register by Monday, August 3rd. Find out how to register, or ask for more information from Christy at christy@energync.org or 919-832-7601 ext 111. Time is 5:30 to 8:30 PM.

08/08/15 HIROSHIMA REMEMBRANCE IN OAK RIDGE TN

There will be more information to come on this event and there will likely be carpooling from Asheville.

08/20/15 COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS ABOUT USE OF FORCE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will host a series of community meetings for discussions about the use of force by law enforcement. Location is Owen High School. Time is 6 PM. The meeting will allow people to hear from Sheriff Van Duncan on the training and education that deputies receive regarding use of force, and Duncan will answer questions from community members about the topic. “We want to share with the public the law as well as the policies that we operate under when making use of force decisions,” Duncan said. “Being transparent with the public will hopefully create a shared understanding of law enforcement’s obligations as well as duties in protecting the public.” The question-and-answer portion of the program will be moderated by Lucia Daughtery of the Asheville-Buncombe Community Relations Council. This forum is free and open to the public.

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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 1 PM at A-Hope on North Ann Street in Asheville.  

Youth Outright Poetry Night at United Church of Christ in Asheville at 5 PM

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 Pritchard Park at 5 PM.

SUNDAY

Youth OUTright meeting from 4 to 6 PM at First Congregational United Church of Christ at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. Ages 14 - 23 only.

Happy Birthday, Edward Snowden!

Simple truths can change the world.

Two years ago today, in a Hong Kong hotel room, three journalists and I waited nervously to see how the world would react to the revelation that the National Security Agency had been collecting records of nearly every phone call in the United States.

Though we have come a long way, the right to privacy remains under attack.

Last month, the NSA’s invasive call-tracking program was declared unlawful by a federal appeals court in ACLU v. Clapper, and it was disowned by Congress. And, after a White House investigation found that the program never stopped a single terrorist attack, even President Obama ordered it terminated.

This is because of you. This is the power of an informed public.

Ending mass surveillance of private phone calls under the Patriot Act is a historic victory for the rights of every citizen. Yet while we have reformed this one program, many others remain.

We need to push back and challenge the lawmakers who defend these programs. We need to make it clear that a vote in favor of mass surveillance is a vote in favor of illegal and ineffective violations of the right to privacy for all Americans.

As I said on Reddit last month, arguing that you don’t care about the right to privacy because you have nothing to hide is no different than saying you don’t care about free speech because you have nothing to say.

We can’t take the right to privacy for granted, just like we can’t take the right to free speech for granted. We can’t let these invasions of our rights stand.

While we worked away in that hotel room in Hong Kong, there were moments when we worried we might have put our lives at risk for nothing – that the public would react with apathy to the publication of evidence that revealed that democratic governments had been collecting and storing billions of intimate records of innocent people.

Never have I been so grateful to have been so wrong.

Edward Snowden for ACLU Action

Is racism over yet? Short answer: no.

Racism really reared it's ugly head this week in the USA.

Juneteenth

Today marks the 150th Anniversary of Juneteenth. How very sad that after 150 years, the USA has still not advanced at all in human rights and respect for life, even though slavery officially ended. That sick man who shot up a church in SC did not come from a culture of love and respect. He came from a culture of racism and violence. #BLACKLIVESMATTER

Photo came from a Progressive Democrats of America email.

A Parable about Power

Taken from the documentary A Whisper to a Roar, this short animation illustrates the corrupting nature of power, the need for collective action and the importance of addressing root causes. It also show that if you use violent and patriarchal means to over throw a violent and patriarchal system - you end up with the same system, more or less. 

Email to Rep. McHenry

Sent to McHenry:  Please vote YES on H.Con.Res.55. The bill directs the president to remove troops from the war on ISIS by the end of the year.

I oppose the war on ISIS. I'm especially concerned that Congress and the public hasn't had an opportunity to meaningfully debate or oppose this war.

A military solution cannot be successful. Troops should come home as soon as possible, and the U.S. should focus on humanitarian and political solutions to this pressing problem.

I look forward to your response.

Upcoming events for the week of June 14, 2015

UPCOMING EVENTS

06/15/15 to 06/19/15 CREATION CARE ALLIANCE OF WNC CONFERENCE

“Wake Forest Food & Faith Intensive in Asheville: A New Heaven, A New Earth: Food Justice, Ecology, and Revelation” will be held at Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa. This transformative five-day course is designed for non-profit leaders, pastors, faith-based activists, gardeners and farmers, and anyone interested in the intersection of Christian spirituality, ecological restoration, and redemptive agriculture. Go to website for Creation Care Alliance of WNC for more information.

06/16/15 JUST ECONOMICS GENERAL MEETING

Just Economics hosts a general meeting on the second Tuesday of every other month where our members and supporters join us, share a meal, talk about some general updates about our work and our community, and then break out into committees to strategize and create plans to bring about a more just and sustainable local economy. This is a great time to get engaged with JE! Everyone is welcome. We will have food, however anyone able to bring a dish to share is encouraged to do so. For more information visit justeconomicswnc.org. Time is 6:30 PM and location is United Way building in Asheville.

06/16/15 WNC ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED AMERICANS MEETING 

The WNC Alliance for Retired Americans has changed to quarterly meetings.  So the meetings will be the third Tuesday in June, September and December at 10 AM in the Kenilworth Presbyterian Church Parlor at 123 Kenilworth Road in Asheville. The ARA is a statewide organization of retired union members and their friends and families. We are nonpartisan 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@dickandnorma.com. (I have not heard from this group recently - are they still meeting? - dancewater)

06/16/15 AUDUBON SOCIETY MEETING

“Bring back the Monarch” natural history discussion. Free. Held in the Reuter Center at UNCA from 7 - 8 PM. 

06/17/15 GREEN DRINKS

“Quiet Landscape Maintenance: Why it’s important and how we achieve it.” The commercial landscape maintenance industry has experienced strong growth over the last 15 years and depends largely on gasoline-powered equipment for most tasks once performed manually. Concerns about the impact of modern practices on workers, the public health, and the environment are growing. This talk will be by Dr. Jamie Banks, Executive Director of Quiet Communities. Socializing at 5:30 PM and programming at 6 PM. Location is The Green Sage in downtown Asheville.

06/18/15 BENEFIT SCREENING FOR BEE CITY USA 

From Disneynature, the studio that brought you Earth, Oceans, African Cats and Chimpanzee, comes “Wings of Life” - a stunning adventure full of intrigue, drama and mesmerizing beauty. Narrated by Academy Award (R) winner Meryl Streep, this intimate and unprecedented look at butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, bats and flowers is a celebration of life, as a third of the world's food supply depends on these incredible--and increasingly threatened - creatures. Time is 7 PM and location is Fine Arts Theater in downtown Asheville. All tickets are $10.

06/19/15 WNC PSR MEETING

Chapter Meeting from noon - 2 PM. Physicians, health personnel and everyone; all are welcome at the Western North Carolina monthly meetings. For location and directions contact 828-633-0892 or terryclarkpsych@gmail.com.

06/20/15 JUST PEACE ISRAEL/PALESTINE PROTEST

Next street protest is June 20 from 12 - 1:30 at Pritchard Park. All are welcome to join us and focus will be on drones under in Gaza.

06/20/15 GREEN GRANNIES SING FOR THE CLIMATE

Green Grannies Sing for the Climate at Pritchard Park at 5 PM. Google "Singfortheclimate" and come out and sing with us! This happens on the third Saturday of every month. 

06/21/15 ETHICAL HUMANIST SOCIETY PRESENTATION

"Health Disparities in Buncombe County. How Do We Close The Gap?” will be presented by JéWana Grier-McEachin, Executive Director of the Asheville Buncombe Institute of Parity Achievement (ABIPA), and Sharon Kelly West, Women Veteran’s Program Manager - Charles George VA Medical Center. Time is 2 to 3:30 PM and location is Asheville Friends Meeting House located at 227 Edgewood Road in Asheville. Grier-McEachin and West will provide an overview of the history of disparities in Buncombe County and the interventions that have been made to impact community health through community collaborations and programming. The importance of advocacy and community champions will be highlighted. For more information contact ethicalsocietyasheville@gmail.com or 828 687-7759. 

06/22/15 - 06/30/15 SUPREME COURT DECISION DAY 

We will gather the night of the US Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality. Whatever the outcome is, we want to be with our Asheville family. Time will be 5 - 6 PM to gather at Vance Monument and then they will go to a downtown venue TBD. This is from a facebook event. This is organized by the Campaign for Southern Equality. Supreme Court decision is expected in late June, but exact date is not known at this time. 

06/23/15 MOUNTAIN TRUE WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL

There will be food and drinks and a raffle, and tickets can be purchased through Asheville Community Theater at 828-254-1320. Time is 6:30 to 9 PM, films start at 7 PM. Location is Asheville Community Theater at 35 East Walnut Street in Asheville. For more information, contact MountainTrue’s AmeriCorps Education & Outings Coordinator Rachel Stevens at (828) 258-8737, ext. 215 or rachel@mountaintrue.org.

06/23/15 MIND THE GAP TOUR

These informational tours are organized by Children First/Communities in Schools of Buncombe County. The tours are held each month and last about 1 hour. They are led by the Executive Director of Children First/Communities in Schools, Allison Jordan, and you get to meet some of the children that are served through the summer camp program, as well as become informed on all of the programs that are  provided, including our advocacy work. The goal is to alleviate the barriers of poverty experienced by local children and families. This includes food pantry, emergency financial assistance, clothing closet, and work on public policy at the local and state level. Time is 8 AM. To reserve a seat on the bus for the tour or for more information, contact Kaitlyn at KaitlynB@childrenfirstbc.org or call 828-259-9717.

06/24/15 GREEN DRINKS 

On June 24th, Lenoir-Rhyne University Sustainability Studies graduate student Alisha Goodman will be discussing her capstone project “Community based social marketing for sustainable materials management in Downtown Asheville.” In partnership with the City of Asheville’s Office of Sustainability, Alisha Goodman has been exploring the barriers and benefits to sustainable waste management practices by businesses in Downtown Asheville. The purpose of the project is to develop recommendations for the City to enhance its Zero Waste AVL Recycling program. This presentation will serve as a review of her findings thus far, as well as an opportunity for commercial stakeholders to offer feedback on strategy development. Socializing at 5:30 PM and programming at 6 PM. Location is The Green Sage in downtown Asheville.

06/25/15 PREVIEW OF UPCOMING ART & EDUCATION EXHIBIT

You are invited to preview the “Americans Who Tell The Truth - NC” exhibit coming to Asheville in the fall of 2015. This is a traveling art exhibit featuring a diverse cross-section of more than 50 portraits of courageous Americans paint by artist Robert Sheerly. The portraits and accompanying narratives highlight citizens who have (or are now) courageously addressing issues of social, environmental and economic fairness. Mingle and view art from 6:30 to 7:15 PM, and there will then be a short presentation about the exhibit at 7:15 to 8 PM. Location is the Historic Kenilworth Inn at 60 Caledonia Road in Asheville. RSVP to AWTTNC@gmail.com or call 828-273-1781.

06/26/15 TOWNS THAT ARE REDUCING THEIR PESTICIDE FOOTPRINT

This free, four-part series will take place on the last Friday of March, April, May and June. This is the third part of the four-part series. The series runs as follows: June 26: It All Starts At Home: Alternatives to Chemical Pesticides. Sessions are being held at the Center for Graduate Studies of Asheville - Lenoir-Rhyne University from 6:00 to 9:00 PM on the above dates. It is our intention to celebrate Asheville as a city in transition, a city willing to take a hard look at what it’s going to take to create the kind of resiliency necessary for a sustainable future.In addition to educating our citizenry – and no doubt learning from you all as well – we want to draw attention to the need for city governments to set an example and model best practices in pest management. Light refreshments will be served each evening. We are looking for volunteers and additional sponsors to cover refreshments. Tabling is free, so please do consider sharing your passion with like-minded folk. Time is 6 to 9 PM and location is Lenoir Rhyne University on Montford Avenue in Asheville. They will be using the second floor boardroom. This is a facebook event, and since it is multi-day, you probably want to sign up if you are interested in this topic.

06/26/15 JUST PEACE FOR ISRAEL/PALESTINE MEETING

This meeting will be at 3:15 PM at Brooks-Howell Home on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. Meet in the media room. 

06/27/15 BOOK PRESENTATION IN WAYNESVILLE

Faustine Wilson, daughter of the late Victoria Casey McDonald, will present Victoria’s last novel, “Living in the Shadow of Slavery”, at Blue Ridge Books on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 3 PM. Living in the Shadow of Slavery continues the story of her great-grandmother, Amanda, whose story began in the novel Under the Lights of Darkness. As a slave of William Holland Thomas, Amanda faces uncertain times now that the Civil War has ended and all slaves have been declared free. Having never known freedom, she and her family must make difficult decisions on how best to survive in this new existence. Faustine will also discuss a bit of the history of slavery in western North Carolina and the legacy of Victoria. Blue Ridge Books is located at 152 S. Main St. in Waynesville, NC. Call (828) 456-6000 for more information.

07/01/15 NO GREEN DRINKS

07/06/15 DINNER WITH PROGRESSIVES

Please join us this Monday night at Green Sage in Westgate in Asheville. Dinner is at 5:30 PM and program will be  from 6 to 7 PM. Please RSVP with Cheryl so she can give a headcount to Green Sage. Her email is ctorengo@gmail.com.  

07/11/15 CITIZEN’S CLIMATE LOBBY MEETING

Next monthly meeting will be on Saturday, July11th from  12:30 - 3 PM at Kairos West Community Center at 742 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Contact Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter at asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.

07/13/15 DRONE QUILT PROJECT IN ASHEVILLE

The Drone Quilt Project has been approved by the Asheville Area Arts Council and will be exhibited at their Grove Arcade gallery from July 13 to July 25. Veterans for Peace Chapter 099, WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility and Just Peace for Israel/Palestine will be co-sponsoring this event.

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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 1 PM at A-Hope on North Ann Street in Asheville.  

Youth Outright Poetry Night at United Church of Christ in Asheville at 5 PM

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 Pritchard Park at 5 PM.

SUNDAY

Youth OUTright meeting from 4 to 6 PM at First Congregational United Church of Christ at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. Ages 14 - 23 only.

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ACTIONS AND READINGS

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Contributions of African Americans to Buncombe County

This is a petition to help honor African Americans contributions to local history. Please sign and forward to your networks.

The petition will be submitted to County Art Board later in summer.

https://www.change.org/p/asheville-public-art-board-create-a-monument-at-pack-square-to-recognize-and-honor-the-contributions-of-african-americans-to-buncombe-county

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From Dinner with Progressives email:

Valerie Hoh made an announcement about Jennifer MacDonald and Vanessa Bell, who are going from Asheville to Syria to deliver toys and games to a refugee camp in Syria. “Having traveled to this region many times over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the devastation and destruction of this rich culture and its citizens, as well as how much hope and joy a small amount of compassion can bring to these communities” says Jennifer MacDonald, photographer and journalist. “I wanted to shine a light on one small area of this crisis, in one camp, to help people empathize and hopefully activate some support.” Co-curator and exhibit designer Vanessa Bell is equally passionate about highlighting the mass of humanitarian issues and suffering currently affecting our world and the need for empathy, “Individually, it’s hard to believe that we can effect much change in the world but I am a great believer in the power of positive thought and prayer,” she says, “and sometimes all it takes a small reminder, a moment of empathy, understanding, or support.”

Visit the ASHEville Museum on Wall Street to see their exhibit, which is called (DIS)PLACED. If you don't have time, check out their website. Second, if you'd like to help with this grassroots grand effort, hit the donate button on this link:  http://www.theluminousscope.com/hadaya/ 

If you'd like to send a check, make it out to The Luminous Scope and send to Valerie Hoh 35 Finalee Ave Asheville, NC 28803. 

I am helping to fundraise for a ticket for Vanessa because I believe so passionately that this is a peace effort! We need more of these small grassroots efforts in that part of the world.   Please RSVP to let me know if you've donated on paypal or sending the check and the money from you will be set aside for her ticket. Anything we collect above that amount will go towards more toys and games.  Thanks friends! And feel free to forward to your friends. - Valerie Hoh