Summary of World Beyond War conference

Pictures and note sent to US Senators

This is Rawa, the lone survivor of an airstrike that killed her parents and siblings in Qaiyara, Iraq last year. The U.S.-led coalition confirmed to us that it bombed “a known ISIS weapons cache” approximately “10 meters away.” Read more from our investigation into coalition air strikes in Iraq in “The Uncounted” in the NYT Magazine.

 An injured child in Iraq. Nobody really knows how many civilians have been killed in the country. Getty via The Independent UK newspaper. “Sixteen years after Bush launched his so-called “war on terror” millions of people’s lives have been turned upside down, Isis has been allowed to fester and spread, and Iraq is a nation at risk of fracturing apart. Moreover, an untold number of innocent civilians have been killed – by disease, illness, in gruesome tortures performed by local and foreign insurgents, and by the US and UK-led military campaign.” - from The Independent UK

++++++++

Dear Senator: In light of the fact that you voted for the NDAA and increased the US military budget and you voted to give the President the power to start new wars without consulting Congress, I am writing to you today to share my thoughts and some information on the current ongoing wars. These wars of aggression on both Iraq and Afghanistan have costs us trillions of dollars, have killed more innocent people than we can count (not that we ever tried to count them) and has spread terrorism to way beyond were it was in September 2001. We would have been better off just doing nothing after the 9/11 attacks! This is both immoral and unjustified and reflects a rot in the US American soul that is very deep indeed. I want to know why you consistently support this evil? Do you recognize how stupid it is to support this? Do the campaign contributions that you receive more important than these children’s lives and futures? Is the profits of our weapons manufacturers more important than these children’s lives and future? Do you care at all? When is this evil going to end? When we have poisoned the whole planet? Is that when it is going to end? Please send your responses to these questions to me.

Rant

The Obama family fed the homeless on Thanksgiving, and Obama himself spend some time with the military. Trump and his wife spent some time on Thanksgiving with the USCG, who were on duty but having a holiday meal. I say this because there are lots of memes going around about Trump playing golf on Thanksgiving while other presidents did these other things. Maybe Trump did play golf yesterday (I sure don't know), but it just shows how Americans cannot focus on the important things... and what their presidents do on thanksgiving, and the turkey pardon, are not important.

But bailing out the banks with taxpayers money while the taxpayers themselves took a huge financial hit - losing jobs, homes, savings, etc.- IS IMPORTANT. The wealth gap has increased to historical records under Bush/Obama - mostly Obama. THIS IS IMPORTANT. The fact that so many people are economically destitute IS IMPORTANT. The fact that Obama bombed between seven and nine countries IS IMPORTANT. The Trump is ramping up the bombing (he has bombed five countries so far and seems to be increasing the number of bombs) IS IMPORTANT. The fact the Bush Jr. and Cheney ruined Iraq and have not had any repercussions IS IMPORTANT. The fact that Obama and HRC ruined Libya and have not had any repercussions IS IMPORTANT. The fact that we are spending trillions of dollars on our wars and creating more and more terrorism IS IMPORTANT. The fact that Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and several countries in Africa have been nearly destroyed with US government actions and military assistance IS IMPORTANT. The fact that western military industrial companies are making tons of money while they are destroying innocent lives and the planet IS IMPORTANT. The fact that our climate is undergoing change so fast we will not be able to keep up IS IMPORTANT. The fact that our main means of communication - the internet - is getting censored more and more IS IMPORTANT.

What is not important (at least 99% of the time) is what is on your TV corporate news.

End of rant.

From Veterans for Peace - on NC Commission of Inquiry on Torture

Sister and Brothers,

Just want to alert you to this happening in your neck of the woods. This below is a letter from Larry Wilkerson to Barry Ladendorf. So I’m just passing this on. The dates are 30 Nov and 1 Dec in Raleigh. Barry unfortunately cannot go as he will be some 6,000 miles or so away at the time. But I think it would be very good if VFP had some representation there. 

Here’s the web site for more info. http://www.nccit.org/

Mr. President,

I might have mentioned NCCIT to you in Chicago.  If I didn't tell you also that I am one of the commissioners, due diligence requires I do so now.  In that role, I include immediately below this "Explainer Video", a 90-second visual arts attempt to condense a huge amount of material to Trump-like proportions:

You will note our website indicated at the video's end as well, for further, more detailed information on the NCCIT.    

The NCCIT will convene open hearings in Raleigh, NC on the days of 30 Nov and 1 Dec of this year.  We will hear from some stellar witnesses such as Alberto Mora, William Howard Taft IV, Glenn Carle, and one or two of the actual abductees, i.e., rendered persons.

If you could see fit to alert others to the hearings--particularly the VFP chapter in NC--through the video or your personal words, or both, we would be deeply appreciative.  I would also like you to attend if at all possible.  I know it's a long way to travel, but perhaps you had other travel planned in the area?  

And, of course, as the video suggests, we would also be appreciative of any financial support that might be provided by any or all of your email list.  We happen to have an Open Society promise to match any donations, no matter how small or large.  

Personally, I hope you can find time to come to Raleigh for the hearings.  It's such a crucial issue.  We hope through this localized effort to keep this issue alive on a more national scale.  With our current President having indicated he might return to torture, it's all the more critical we do so. 

Larry   

Upcoming events for the week of November 26, 2017

UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR BY DANCEWATER

11/27/17 ASHEVILLE SURJ MEETING

Asheville SURJ weekly evening meeting: Monday, 6:30-8:30pm at Asheville Unitarian Universalist Congregation (downstairs main building). Accountability group for folks seeking to focus on anti-racism work. Meetings include opportunities such as discussion, educational opportunities, or role-playing difficult conversations, and building connections.  David Greenson to lead post Thanksgiving Calling In session about the conversations we had, didn't have, regretted having, wished went differently, etc. Come and process, prepare, and practice for your next encounter! For more info email avlsurj@gmail.com. 

11/28/17  VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON

Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace. 

11/28/17 CITIZENS CLIMATE LOBBY MOVIE NIGHT

Nov 28, 6:30 PM: Collider movie night “Before the Flood,” film 7 pm at The Collider w. CCL. Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter. Suggested donation is $10 per person or $20 per family.  asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org.

11/28/17 WOMEN UP CELEBRATION AND AWARDS CEREMONY

WomanUP Celebration and Awards Ceremony. The inspiring stories of “Hidden Figures” retired NASA Engineer Dr. Christine Darden, and entrepreneur Troylyn Ball of Asheville Distilling Co. Retired NASA engineer Dr. Christine Darden and entrepreneur Troylyn Ball of Asheville Distilling Co. share stories of overcoming obstacles to achieve success as professional women at the 2017 WomanUP Celebration and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, November 28, 2017. A At the event, awards will be given to honor three outstanding women from Asheville’s business community: The Woman Nonprofit Leader of the Year, presented by TD Bank; Woman Executive of the Year, presented by Mission Health; and Women Entrepreneurs, Best in Business, presented by Webb Investments, Inc. The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Buncombe County Schools Foundation have partnered to host this celebration held at the Crowne Plaza Expo Center. Tickets for the breakfast are $45. Contact the Asheville Chamber of Commerce to obtain tickets. Tuesday, November 28, 2017 8:00 AM - 11:00. Location is the Crowne Plaza Resort - Expo Center at 1 Resort Drive in Asheville.

11/28/17 EVENT AT MARS HILL UNIVERSITY

Indigenous Peoples Day Presentation. Tuesday, November 28 at 7 p.m. in Belk Auditorium in Wren Student Center. Amy West, president of the Native American Student Association, and Heather Hawn, political science professor, will discuss the significance of Columbus Day and the grassroots movement to change this to Indigenous Peoples Day celebrating the history and culture of The First Nations. Sponsored by NASA and the Political Science Department.

11/28/17 ASURJ EVENT

Tuesday ASURJ Do-Session, 10 am in Firestorm's back room. We hold this space so that we can check in with each other about our experiences this past week attempting to do good work in Asheville. There are things we have seen that encourage us to believe that white people are waking up to the impact of racism on everyone, and there are things that knock us flat and make us think racism will forever haunt this mountain town. Bring it all, and we will leave with something concrete we can each do this week to support multi-racial coalition work. All are welcome. Do-Session, 11:30-1pm to follow.

11/28/17 OCCUPY WNC MEETING IN SYLVA

The non-partisan group Occupy WNC meets every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays in Sylva's Sneak E Squirrel Community Room. The next meeting is November 28th at 7:00PM; supper is at 6:00 PM for those who can come. Occupy WNC has worked for economic and social justice in WNC since 2011. Newcomers and visitors are welcome. Contact Lucy Christopher at (828)743-9747 for more information.

11/29/17 WORKSHOP AT FIRESTORM IN ASHEVILLE

Nov 29- Sustainable Call Ins- an introduction to the trifold method on addressing abuse and assault in subcultural communities (led by Kat). Workshop runs from 5 to 7pm at Firestorm Co-op at 610 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Free. For more information, contact: callistocollective@protonmail.com.

11/29/17 LETTER WRITING TO ELECTED OFFICIALS

Indivisible Asheville is holding an event to write letters and postcards to congress. Time is 5:30 PM and location is The Block off biltmore at 39 South Market Street in downtown Asheville. Contact The Block off biltmore for more information.

11/30/17 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE EVENT

Co-sponsored by Transition Asheville, Slow Food Asheville, and the Buncombe County Fruit & Nut Club. Date: 11/30/17. Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00pm. Place: First Congregational UCC at 20 Oak Street in Asheville. Presentation Topic: The Gift of Nuts. Call 614-315-0173 for more information.

11/30/17 DEMOCRACY NORTH CAROLINA FUNDRAISER

We Are Rebuilding Democracy. Join us for our 2017 Asheville party to support Democracy North Carolina. Get an insider update on our fight against voter suppression and gerrymandering in NC and hear how we train and deploy local advocates and ways you can get involved. Thursday, November 30, 2017. Time is 5:30-7:30 p.m. with drinks and light fare at The Old Wood Company at 99 Riverside Drive, Asheville. Individual tickets are $50. To become a sponsor or get a ticket, contact Meta Nzongola at meta@democracy-nc.org  or (919) 908-7932.

11/30/17 SPEAKER SERIES IN ASHEVILLE

Asheville is a community on the rise. The design of our community impacts how we interact with the space around us and with each other, and influences how we live. Join us for this *free* five-part speaker series featuring national experts on urban design, planning, placemaking, transportation and other community development topics to explore the role of thoughtful design in building livable communities. We'll kick things off November 30 with Tony Garcia, a nationally-recognized architect, writer, speaker and advocate in the in the field of transit, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. Tony will cover questions such as: -How can you become a key actor in the transformation of Asheville neighborhoods? -How do we enhance and revitalize Asheville using placemaking and tactical urbanism? -What can we do to make our city more pedestrian and bicycle friendly? These deep-dive community conversations are dedicated to creating a better understanding of the role design plays in the growth of Asheville and its surrounding regions. The goal is to help create conversations by hosting professionals from outside the region, who will bring innovative ideas as well as examples of other community’s successes and failures. Seating is limited, reserve your seat via our ticket link on Facebook. More information on speakers and sponsors here: https://www.buildingourcity.org/. Time is 5:30 PM and location is The Collider in downtown Asheville.

12/02/17 DEMOCRACY NC EVENT

December 2 | We Are Democracy Workshop | Asheville. Join us at at this upcoming We Are Democracy workshop in Asheville on December 2. Democracy North Carolina will equip you and your fellow activists from surrounding counties with the latest updates, tools, and training for building a multiracial movement to mobilize for redistricting reform, fight back against voter suppression, and set the stage for our collective work in 2018. You’ll also learn some movement history, hear success stories from the field, and get timely training on core organizing skills. Any contribution that you are able to make will help Democracy NC bring this workshop to more participants statewide. When: Saturday, December 2, from 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM (sign-in begins at 9:15 AM). Where: Jubilee! (01 Patton Ave, Asheville, 28801). Please RSVP.  Contact Darlene Azarmi at 828-216-3430 or darlene@democracy-nc.org with any questions and to RSVP or make a donation.

12/04/17 DOCUMENTARY SCREENING IN ASHEVILLE

On Monday, December 4, at 6:30 PM, CJJ/West, the Western North Carolina Chapter of the ACLU and Hood Huggers International will be co-sponsoring the screening of “13th” a documentary by filmmaker Ava DuVernay, at the Altamont Theatre at 13 Church Street in Asheville. The film explores the history of racial inequality in the US, focusing on the nation’s prisons that are disproportionately filled with African-Americans. A panel discussion will follow. Catering will be provided by Comedy Catering, and Black Star Line Brewing from Hendersonville, a new African-American owned brewery, will be featuring its brews. The suggested minimum donation is $5; all funds will go to Hood Huggers. Because space is limited, it is important to RSVP by November 28 to cjjwest@carolinajewsforjustice.org. 

12/05/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON

Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace. 

12/05/17 CURRENT EVENTS BOOK CLUB

Join host Bruce Roth for a lively discussion on topics of current interest including war and peace, the economy, the environment, and other hot political topics. Time is 7 PM and location is Malaprops in downtown Asheville. We meet the first Tuesday of every month. Contact Bruce at brucerothchess@gmail.com for more information. December's book is “Out of the Wreckage” by George Monbiot.

12/05/17 WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL

The World Affairs Council lecture series at UNC Asheville will complete its 2017 season on Dec. 5 with The State of the Middle East in the Post-ISIS Era, presented by Ali Demirdas of the College of Charleston faculty. December 5, 7:30 p.m., “Turkey and the Middle East with Erdogan’s New Expansions of Power” by Ali Demirdas, a Turkish citizen who now teaches international politics at the College of Charleston. All lectures are scheduled in the Reuter Center's Manheimer Room, free to WAC members and students, all others $10 at the door.

12/06/17 CITIZENS-POLICE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

This meeting is organized by the City of Asheville. This meeting is free and open to the public. This meeting will be at the Recreation Division Offices at 72 Gashes Creek Road in east Asheville. Time is 5 PM. Call 251-1122 for more information.

12/06/17 SIERRA CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY AND RECOGNITION AWARDS

Sierra Club Dec. 6: Holiday Party & Recognition Awards. This annual Holiday Party is a potluck: Please bring a dish to share, as well as your own dishes and silverware. The club will also be recognizing outstanding companies and organizations who have made a difference for the environment in the past year. Date: Wednesday, December 6, 2017. Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place (corner of Charlotte and Edwin). Contact: Judy Mattox, judymattox@sbcglobal.net, 828-683-2176

12/06/17 SOCIAL JUSTICE BOOK CLUB AT FIRESTORM IN ASHEVILLE

Wed, Dec 6 @ 2:00pm. Secular Jewish Social Justice Book Club. This new book group will be reading Gloria Steinhem's recently published “My Life on the Road.” Contact Firestorm for more information.

12/06/17 BOOK DISCUSSION AT FIRESTORM IN ASHEVILLE

Wed, Dec 6 @ 6:00pm. Ella May Wiggins Discussion. On October 3rd, New York Times bestselling author Wiley Cash will release The Last Ballad, a book is based on social justice fighter Ella May Wiggins' life. Who was she and what is her relevance today? Contact Firestorm for more information.

12/07/17 BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP IN ASHEVILLE

New Jim Crow Discussion Group. Join bookseller Stephanie Jones-Byrne for the first of two meetings to discuss The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander. The group will meet again on January 4th. Event date: Thursday, December 7, 2017 - 6:00pm to 7:00pm. Event address: Malaprop’s Bookstore at 55 Haywood Street in Asheville.

12/07/17 FAIR COURTS RALLY AND PRESS CONFERENCE

Think our judges should be fair, independent, and removed from political pressure? Unfortunately, politicians in Raleigh are trying to gain partisan control over the courts and rig the system in their favor. First, they canceled primary elections for judges, and now the politicians are planning to return in January 2018 to cancel judicial elections and simply appoint their political friends to fill the bench and tilt the scales of justice in their favor. Right now, members of the North Carolina General Assembly are home in their districts for the holidays. And we have a chance to tell them directly to oppose this brazen conspiracy to rig the justice system for partisan control. Join us Thursday, December 7th, at 11 a.m. at Pack Square Park in Asheville to hold our lawmakers accountable. Hosted by League of Women Voters of North Carolina, Progress North Carolina, North Carolina Voters for Clean Elections, North Carolina NAACP, and Democracy North Carolina. No contact information.

12/09/17 BENEFIT FOR BARBUDA IN ASHEVILLE

Proceeds of food sales will be donated to Hurricane Irma victims in Barbuda. Music by DJ Red Iyah, Food by Waddle Dessert Oasis. Time is 7 PM, open to the whole family. There will be a silent auction and craft vendors. Location is THE BLOCK off biltmore at 39 S. Market Street in Asheville. For more information, call 828-254-9277. If you would like to donate to the hurricane victims of Barbuda, email us at chefempressj@wadadlidesserto.com. 

12/10/17 OPEN HOUSE FOR JEWS FOR JUSTICE

On Sunday, December 10th from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, CJJ/West will host an Open House to socialize and organize. The event will take place at Congregation Beth HaTephila, 43 North Liberty St, Asheville. Learn more about the issues we are working on, including economic inequality, racial justice, voter engagement and immigration. Most importantly, find out how you can be involved. Refreshments will be served. There is no charge to attend.

12/11/17 PRESENTATION ON GLOBAL WARMING

The League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County,  YWCA of Asheville and The Climate Reality Project invite you to: “Global Warming: A Nonpartisan Perspective.” Presented by Katie Kasben, Climate Reality Leader and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps. Community by community, Americans are demanding action on climate change. Join us for a presentation on the impacts, solutions, and what you can do to help drive action. This event is part of the Project’s peer-to-peer outreach to share with people everywhere the truth about climate change and the solutions in our hands today. Our speaker is one of thousands of volunteers in 135 countries around the globe. Ms. Kasben is a volunteer Climate Reality Leader and was personally trained by former United States Vice President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore to educate the public about climate change. Her goal is to mobilize our community for action. December 11 from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 pm. Location: YWCA of Asheville, 185 S. French Broad Avenue in Asheville. Bring your lunch. The League is providing drinks and dessert. 

12/11/17 PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS OF BUNCOMBE MEETING

Progressive Democrats of Buncombe County Meeting. When: Monday, December 11, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Where:  Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ, 951 Old Fairview Road in east  Asheville. Description: Our goal is to further progressive ideals. We work to get big money out of politics and bring power to the people--not just corporations. We believe higher education needs to be available to anyone willing to do the academic work. We stand up for single-payer health care. Come and join us--make these ideals a reality. Contact: Kris Kramer at pdobpresident@gmail.com

12/12/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON

Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace. 

12/13/17 JUST PEACE FOR ISRAEL/PALESTINE MEETING

This meeting will be at 9:30 AM at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church at 117 Montreat Road in Black Mountain. Contact Beth at elizakeiser@aol.com or 828 707 4271 for more information. 

12/13/17 MOUNTAINTRUE AND SIERRA CLUB MEETING

Dec. 13: Environmental Issues & Actions Meeting. Join MountainTrue and the Sierra Club for monthly meetings to discuss local, state and national environmental issues. These meetings will help identify opportunities to take action on current issues, and provide educational opportunities for anyone who would like more information about how to get involved in environmental action. These meetings will occur on the second Wednesday of every month, and the next meeting is December 13 from 6:00pm-7:30pm at the Wedge at Foundation at 5 Foundy Street in Asheville. If you’re interested in staying up to date on environmental issues and want to know how you can get involved in local, state and national opportunities, come on out to learn more. For more information, contact Susan Bean at 828.258.8737 x 216 or susan@mountaintrue.org. 

12/13/17 DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING IN ASHEVILLE

“13th” Film Screening. In anticipation Michelle Alexander's visit to UNC Asheville on January 18th, 2018 please join us as we present films and host discussions about the broken criminal justice system in the United States. The first film we will be showing is the critically acclaimed documentary, “13th.” It explores the 13th amendment: did it eradicate, or evolve slavery? This screening will take place December 13th at 6:00 pm at the Grant Center (285 Livingston St). This screening is free to the public. Facilitated discussion to follow. Contact JaNesha Slaughter at janesha.slaughter@gmail.com for questions.

12/13/17 CITIZENS CLIMATE LOBBY PLANNING MEETING

December 13 at 6pm, CCL Chapter Planning Meeting to have a ready response for when legislation will be introduced, Whole Foods Market, 4 South Tunnel Road in east Asheville. Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter

12/14/17 PARTY TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF PEACE

Thursday December 14, PARTY TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF PEACE, 5—8 pm at First Congregational Church Friendship Hall, 20 Oak St, Asheville, NC 28801 (look for sign at entrance). Event to commemorate the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to the International Campaign for Abolition of Nuclear Weapons (ICANw) and its work on the new Nuclear Ban Treaty. WNC PSR is a local affiliate to the Campaign. Celebrate all the work that has been done by many in this region, over many years, towards this day. Food, music, friendship, more information: maryo@nirs.org or 828-252-8409

12/16/17 AUTHOR PANEL AT FIRESTORM IN ASHEVILLE

Sat, Dec 16 @ 5:00pm. Hope, Resilience, and Resistance Author Panel. Four local authors will talk about their new books and writing for young readers during these chaotic times. Event is appropriate for middle-school age and above. Contact Firestorm for more information.

12/19/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON

Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.

12/19/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING

On the third Tuesday of each month, Western North Carolina Veterans for Peace meets to coordinate group activities and programs.Veterans For Peace is a global organization of Military Veterans and allies whose collective efforts are to build a culture of peace by using our experiences and lifting our voices. We inform the public of the true causes of war and the enormous costs of wars, with an obligation to heal the wounds of wars. Our network is comprised of over 140 chapters worldwide whose work includes: educating the public, advocating for a dismantling of the war economy, providing services that assist veterans and victims of war, and most significantly, working to end all wars. Time is 5:45 PM and location is the Block Off Biltmore at Eagle and Market Streets in downtown Asheville. For more information, contact Gerry at gwerhan@gmail.com.

12/20/17 ASHEVILLE GREEN DRINKS

Informal networking focused on the science of sustainability. Free to attend. Held at The Block off biltmore at 39 South Market Street. Time is 6 PM. No contact information. 

12/21/17 CITIZENS CLIMATE LOBBY MEETING

Next Meeting: Thursday, December 21st, 6:30-8:30pm. Location: Kairos West Community Center (behind Firestorm Books & Cafe). Address: 610 Haywood Rd, in west Asheville. Citizens Climate Lobby - Asheville Chapter

12/26/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON

Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace. 

12/27/17 BOARD MEETING FOR LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS IN ASHEVILLE - BUNCOMBE COUNTY. 

Board Meeting, Public Comment Open at beginning of each meeting. Wed, December 27, 6:30pm – 8:00pm. Monthly on the fourth Wednesday. Location is The Cathedral of All Souls at 9 Swan Street in Asheville. Join us in the CE Room.

12/31/17 WNC SOLIDARITY CONCERT SERIES 

The final Sunday of each month in 2017, two groups of WNC-based musicians and their ensembles will each perform a benefit concert to raise funding for WNC nonprofits. The music performed each week will fluctuate between jazz, rhythm & blues, soul, jazz funk, jazz fusion, and swing. Each event will host two groups, playing, consecutively between 3 and 5 PM with a brief intermission. All of proceeds go to the nonprofit organization. The nonprofit for today is Homeward Bound. This is a special WNC solidarity New Year’s Eve concert. Location is The Block Off Biltmore at Eagle and South Market Streets in downtown Asheville. Suggested donation is $10, and are available the day of the event. Please call The Block Off Biltmore for more information.

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ONGOING EVENTS

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MONDAY

Asheville SURJ weekly meeting at 6:30 pm at UU Congregation in Asheville, downstairs

TUESDAY

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

SURJ Discussion at Firestorm Coffee & Books at 610 Haywood Road in west Asheville. 10 AM-11:30 AM. Followed by Do!sessions from 11:30-1:30 PM.

Rally at historic Courthouse in Hendersonville at 5 PM on the first Tuesday of the month. Organized by the Progressive Organized Women. 

Gathering of people who like to stitch and otherwise puncture the status quo at 68 Haywood Street Outdoor Space at 9 AM. 

WEDNESDAY

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

French Broad Riverkeeper has a paddle-n-plant to prevent sediment erosion most Wednesdays and Saturdays. Registration required at anna@mountaintrue.org. 

Green Drinks meets at 6 PM at The Block Off Biltmore on the third Wednesday of the month.

Sierra Club meets at 7 PM at Unitarian Universalist in Asheville on the first Wednesday of the month.

Indivisible Asheville does political letter writing at 5:30 every Wednesday at The Block Off Biltmore. 

THURSDAY

Political Prisoners Letter Writing at Firestorm Coffee & Books at 6 PM on first Thursday of the month. Materials provided.

Welcome Home Tour by Homeward Bound on the third Thursday of the month at 11 AM. Call 258-1695 for more information.

Asheville Prison Books Program is held at Downtown Books & News from 4 to 7 PM. 

FRIDAY

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

Progressive Women of Hendersonville hold a letter/postcard writing to government representatives from 4 to 7 PM at Sanctuary Brewing Company at 147 First Avenue in Hendersonville.

SATURDAY

French Broad Riverkeeper has a paddle-n-plant to prevent sediment erosion most Wednesdays and Saturdays. Registration required at anna@mountaintrue.org. 

Mountain True holds urban forest workdays on the second Saturday of the month at Richmond Hill Park from 9 AM to 1 PM. Call 258-8737 for more information.

Citizen’s Climate Lobby meeting at 12:30 PM at Kairos West Community Center on second Saturday of the month.

Food Not Bombs serves free vegan/vegetarian food every Saturday at noon at Pritchard Park.

Dances of Universal Peace on the third Saturdays at 7:30 at 1 School Road in Asheville. 

SUNDAY

Asheville National Organization for Women meeting at 2:30 PM at YWCA of Asheville on second Sunday of the month.

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ACTIONS AND READINGS

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SPREADING THE TRUTH ABOUT DRONES

On the 5th of November, Cian spoke at a General Assembly in Berlin along with 69 other delegates from around the world. These delegates were addressing issues ranging from mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo -- where a war has raged for over a decade, taking 7 million lives -- to the abuses animals endure in our factory farms. Cian opened his speech -- after a video of Faisal bin al Jaber, who lost two members of his family to a U.S. drone strike in Yemen -- with words of author David Mitchell from a book that Cian first read in Afghanistan: "Our lives are not our own, we are bound to others, past and present, and by each crime and every kindness, we birth our future."

During the speech, Cian delivered emotional testimony on his role in Afghanistan; he called for a ban on UCAVs (armed drones) and a preemptive ban on killer robots. And Cian offered a deep apology to the people of Afghanistan.

You can show support for Cian’s work now by making a tax-deductible donation to his Drone Whistleblower Fellowship.

"My crimes still keep me up most nights,” he said at the Berlin forum. “I was just following orders... Numbers, triple digit numbers on performance reports and awards.” He added: "Numbers, they were human beings, people with mothers, sisters, fathers, brothers, sons, daughters, lovers. Entire lives filled with dreams and hopes reduced to numbers; easily digestible to the bureaucrats who sent us there.”

This forum compels parliamentarians to face the uncomfortable realities of their decision-making processes, and educates citizens on everything that went unspoken that year. It’s about putting faces to numbers, and creating real democracy. Your help has been critical in facilitating important international dialogue on the issue of drones, and Cian sends his humble thanks. Cian’s van is still in disrepair, and his laptop was recently stolen after speaking in Italy. Travel brings many uncertainties, and traveling for this work is nothing easy. Help him continue our work and get on solid footing. Anything helps. Thank you all for your continued support.

Next, Cian will speak about the Sigonella Air Base in Italy at the Festival della Pace in Brescia, and the need for a forum for "colluding nations" to demand transparency and hold their governments accountable for the violations of international laws they helped the United States commit with UCAVs and through surveillance. Please support the work of Cian Westmoreland by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Drone Whistleblower Fellowship Program of the RootsAction Education Fund.

Your support for Cian makes a big difference. And the fact that it’s tax-deductible means putting more money where it can do good instead of harm.

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THE COMPASSION EXPERIENCE 

This project is coming to Brevard, NC in late November and early December. Go to this website for more information and to get tickets:

https://www.compassion.com/change/

What is The Compassion Experience?

This free event features an interactive journey through the true stories of children living in developing countries like the Philippines, Kenya, Uganda and the Dominican Republic.

In over 2,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space, visitors will step inside homes, markets and schools — without getting on a plane. Each child's story starts in poverty but ends in hope.

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Buncombe County Commissioners Meeting on December 5, 2017

One issue that is really picking up steam is the Resolution to Achieve 100% Clean Energy by 2030 for Buncombe County. This could even be voted on December 5, so now is the time to act. Carolyn Anderson, of Indivisible Environment and WNC Renewables Coalition, has asked us to call the county commissioners and persuade them to vote "yes" on this resolution. 

-Brownie Newman, Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, and Al Whitesides are already on board, so please thank them for their efforts on this. 

Here is the information for contacting the county commissioners: 

Brownie Newman – Chair and sponsor of the initiative

Email: brownie.newman@buncombecounty.org, 828-243-0107

Jasmine Beach-Ferrara – District 1 

Email: jasmine.beach-ferrara@buncombecounty.org 828-250-4004

Al Whitesides – District 1

Email: alfred.whitesides@buncombecounty.org 828-273-6427

Mike Fryar – District 2

Email: mike.fryar@buncombecounty.org 828-250-4007

Ellen Frost – District 2

Email: ellen.frost@buncombecounty.org 828-275-8662

Joe Belcher – District 3

Email: joe.belcher@buncombecounty.org 828-250-4008

Robert Pressley – District 3

Email: robert.pressley@buncombecounty.org 828-215-2077

And here are some talking points you could use: http://www.ncwarn.org/wp-content/uploads/CP25-Factsheet.pdf

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FROM THE WALL OF A FACEBOOK FRIEND:

This is what my Yemeni friend Mohamad Shami has written on my wall ~

Dearest Sabyasachi

You cannot imagine how much that means to us in Yemen. Three years of total genocide and no one even seems to know.

Military massacres daily and blockade on 27 million. Last couple weeks the only left over thin stream of goods coming from #Hodeida and Salif sea ports were blockaded. Literally, and at minimum, couple of HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of children would die in the next 2-3 months if nothing changes. Many more dying including civilians, patients, etc.

Yemenis have been fighting back this brutal aggression with utmost bravery and scarifying everything against the evil and arrogance of Saudi-US coalition; coalition losing it in a way they never expected so their only choice according to them is to penalize the whole nation, a nation that refused to submit to their evil wishes and continue to be treated like their slaves!

Pls continue to stand with Yemen. Nothing perhaps in history has anything like this happened. Allah only knows the weight of you actions, any and every action, and He only Could Reward you and good other humans for that!

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