EARTH CIRCLE . . . On the first day of each month, people around the world stop for five minutes to visualize peace and focus on new levels of kindness, understanding, and compassion necessary for collectively facing the challenges of the 21st century. NewDimensions invites peacemakers everywhere to join at 4:00pm Greenwich Mean Time, 10:00am in Lincoln and Omaha, 9:00am in District 3 where Mountain Time begins, Thursday, April 1, 2010, with the intention of deep healing for the Planet and all its people. Click here for more information about Earth Circle. Shared intention is a powerful force.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

NEW ARENA OR NO NEW ARENA IN PROPOSED LOCATION? . . . Opponents of a proposed $344 million arena plan subsidized by Lincoln taxpayers will meet Saturday, April 3, 2010, 10:00am, at Bess Dodson Walt Branch City Library, 6701 South 14th Street. Opponents object to the proposed location for clearly documented reasons: Lack of fiscal responsibility–The City of Lincoln will increase it’s debt burden tremendously; destruction of the historic Landmark District environment, a vibrant creative downtown mixed residential/commercial neighborhood; disregard for the designated flood plain of the Salt Creek area; lack of environmental vision for more sustainable/green urban development; and the false sense of democracy being promoted with a May 11, 2010 vote on a $25 million bond–only a small part of the $344 million project.
The proposed site is highly contaminated with toxic railyard waste. The City of Lincoln will be assuming liability for cleaning up ground contaminated with 130 years of toxins. The railroads will have no clean-up responsibility after this proposed deal. It is very unlikely that $7.5 million allotted for cleanup will be adequate, to mention nothing of $20 million per year in interest the City will owe on the bond for 30 years. This raises the cost to $755 million with interest, without added contamination clean-up costs.
Speakers on both sides of the issue will answer questions Thursday, April 1, on 1400AM radio, between 4:30 and 6:00pm. No2Arena spokespeople will be on 1240AM at 11:00am, Friday, April 2, 2010. Click here  for the most recent Lincoln Journal Star article, “Grass-roots group opposes downtown Lincoln arena.” There is no Plan B. Cindy Lange-Kubick’s column addressed to the Mayor, “What’s your Plan B?” is here.  Click here for Deena Winter’s coverage of “Who’s who in the downtown Lincoln arena plan.”  Readers are invited to send questions about the arena to citydesk [at] journalstar [dot] com. Click here, phone Kathy at 402.202.8153, or e-mail KathyKBD [at] aol [dot] com to learn more and volunteer help. No2Arena yard signs and bumper stickers are now available, at Saturday morning meetings, or by phoning 488.8519. Click here to become a “Vote NO to Lincoln’s Haymarket Arena” Facebook fan. SAVE THE HAYMARKET.

VIGIL AGAINST THE DEATH PENALTY . . . Every Monday, noon to 1:00pm, Nebraskans for abolition of the death penalty meet in front of the governor’s mansion, 1425 H Street, Lincoln, from noon to 1:00pm. The lunch-hour presence reminds senators and the governor of a constituency that does not want state killings. Weekly vigils have taken place year-round since July, 1991. All abolitionists are welcome to participate for a few minutes, or the hour. For more information about Nebraskans Against the Death Penalty, click here.

PUBLIC MEETING ON 14TH & SUPERIOR PLANS . . . Lincoln residents are invited to a public meeting on the proposed design of the North 14th and Superior Street intersection, Monday, March 29, 2010, from 5:30-7:30pm, at Lincoln North Star High School, 5801 North 33rd Street. A presentation will begin at 6:00pm. Two design options exist — expand the intersection by adding lanes in all directions, or construct a multi-lane roundabout. Comments, questions and opinions from the public will be addressed at the meeting, and also may be shared here.  If you have questions but are unable to attend, contact John Olsson at 402.458.5614.

EARTH DAY 2010 . . . Lincoln Earth Day planning meetings are every Tuesday, 5:30 to 7:00pm, at the Community Foundation Building, 215 Centennial Mall South, in the fifth flood conference room. The 40th Anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated in Lincoln on Saturday, April 24, 2010, at Antelope Park, with evening activities in the Haymarket. To host a booth or exhibit, join a committee, or volunteer in any way, e-mail emilymckeone [at] yahoo [dot] com or phone 402.250.4100. OR just go to a Tuesday night meeting and get involved.

THE SACRED PLANET . . . Internationally recognized professor Joseph Runzo, will visit UN-L Wednesday, March 31, through Friday, April 2, 2010, for a series of talks on human rights. The North American premiere showing of his documentary “The Sacred Planet,” will be at The Ross, 313 North 13th Street, Wednesday, 7:00pm, followed by a discussion. Other Lincoln speaking appearances include a Wednesday discussion, 4:00pm, at the Nebraska Union, 1400 R Street; and a Friday, 12:10pm, presentation on his global project “Revising Just War Theory for the 21st Century,” at the College of Law Room 111, Ross McCollum Hall, East Campus Loop and Fair Street. All appearances, including the film screening, are open to the public free of charge.

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils continue at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

NPR’S ROB GIFFORD AT LIED . . . “China Road: A Journey into the Future of a Rising Power” is the title of the final E.N. Thompson Forum on World Issues by National Public Radio correspondent Rob Gifford, Thursday, April 1, 2010, 7:00pm, at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 North 12th Street, Lincoln. In his recently published book, “China Road,” he records a two-month journey along Route 312, the Chinese equivalent of Route 66. The 3,000 mile highway witnesses every part of China’s social and economic revolution. The book is based upon a seven-part radio series Gifford filed. Tickets are free, but guarantee a reserved seat. Call 402.472.4747 or 800.432.3231 to reserve a seat, pick up tickets in person, or order here.

THINK SPRING GARDENING WORKSHOP . . . Hawley Area Association in the Malone Neighborhood presents a spring gardening workshop “From Mowing to Growing: Starting a Garden at Home” with Amy Brt, Community Garden Program Manager, Saturday, April 3, 2010, 10:00am to noon, at the Malone Community Center, 2032 U Street, in Lincoln. There will be a Free Rain Barrel Give-away to the first 50 Hawley/Malone Neighborhood homeowners, plus a “Building your own rain barrel workshop.” Cake and coffee will be served. For more information, contact Tim Rinne, 730.6675, or walterinne [at] gmail [dot] com.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

SAVE THE DATE . . . Earth Day Omaha 2010 will be April 17th, 12:00 noon to 8:00pm, at Elmwood Park, 802 South 60th Street. Learn more about exhibiting efforts to advocate sustainable environmental practices and lifestyles, or register to exhibit online here.  Reach thousands of consumers interested in learning about ways to work toward a more sustainable planet as an Earth Day sponsor. Sponsorship information here.  A volunteer application is here.  Interested in performing? Online band sign-up is here.  Know a person or organization making extraordinary strides in protecting the environment? Make nominations for this year’s Friend of the Environment Award here.

OMAHA PEACE VIGILS . . . Omaha peacemakers vigil every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30pm, at StratCom/UN-O, 6801 Pine Street, east of the Scott Technology Center on the Un-O campus. Free parking is available at the NE Corner of 67th Street and Pine in a student lot. For more information, phone Jerry Ebner, 402.502.5887. Every Saturday, 1:00-2:00pm, there is an Anti-War and Peace Vigil at 72nd and Dodge Streets. Contact Steve Horn at 402.426.9068.

OMAHA PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL . . . There is a People’s Film Festival every Wednesday evening, 7:00pm, at McFoster’s Natural Kind Cafe, 38th and Harney in Omaha. The event is always free and open to the public. This week’s film is “Hidden in Plain Sight: Prostitution in Nebraska.” A timely documentary produced locally, Hidden in Plain Sight offers insight into an invisible community. Food and drink is available. A lively discussion follows each showing. For more information, click here.  The People’s Film Festival – Expanding Political Consciousness Since 2004.

TAPPED . . . Friday, April 2, 2010, The Environmental Club of UNO (EC UNO) and Repower Nebraska are hosting a free public screening of the film TAPPED, a documentary examining the big business of bottled water.  From the producers of Who Killed the Electric Car and I.O.U.S.A., this timely film is a behind-the-scenes look into the unregulated and unseen world of an industry that aims to privatize and sell back the one resource that ought never become a commodity: our water. The screening is at UNO’s College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS) Auditorium, Room 101, 6:30pm. TAPPED’s Producer Sarah Olson, and Director Stephanie Soechtig, will collect pledges to reduce bottled water use and trade empty plastic water bottles for reusable stainless steel Klean Kanteens. The bottle exchange will begin at 5:00pm. For more information, contact Eric Williams, Repower Nebraska, eric.williams [at] climateprotect [dot] org, 415.7933; or Patrick Wheeler, GreenUNO Task Force, pwheeler [at] unomaha [dot] edu, 554.3921.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

SANDHILL CRANES ARRIVE ON THE PLATTE . . . Nebraska’s annual phenomenon of nature, the arrival of Sandhill Cranes in spectacular numbers, has begun. The Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center, at the Alda exit 305 on Interstate 80, is open daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm, with exhibits, art displays, and two types of guided crane viewing tours. Tour reservations may be made by phone at 308.382.1820. Click here for “Taking Flight,” a Sunday, March 28, 2010 Lincoln Journal Star feature story on Nebraska’s Sandhill Cranes.

LOCAL FARMING DISCUSSION . . . Over the last several years, there has been a major change in the demand for local foods. Tuesday, March 30, 2010, beginning at 6:00pm, central and western Nebraskans are invited to The Wolbach Community Center in Wolbach to learn about and discuss ways small farmers can fill this new demand. Roy Guisinger will describe how the Nebraska Food Coop works, Lori Fisher will show a Mobile Meat Harvester Unit, Kevin Fulton and Jim Knopik will introduce an internship program being developed, and there will be time for discussion and networking. EveryOne interested in alternatives to factory farming and industrialized food is welcome. For more information, phone Jim Knopik, 308.536.2023, or Kevin Fulton, 308.446.2520.

QUESTION SENATOR JOHANNS . . . Senator Mike Johanns will be hold public meetings and open events across the state according to the following schedule. Tuesday, March 30, 2010: 7:30am MDT, Emporium Coffee House and Cafe, 1818 1st Avenue, Scottsbluff; 10:00am MDT, Alliance Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Avenue, Alliance; 2:30pm MDT, Buffalo Point Restaurant, 638 Cabela Drive, Sidney; 4:45pm MDT, Chappell Fire Hall , East Highway 30, Chappell; 7:00 pm MDT, Valentino’s, 55 River Road, Ogallala. Wednesday, March 31, 2010: 8:00am MDT, Bunkhouse Bar and Grill, 306 Fir Street, Arthur; 10:00am MDT, Hyannis High School, 203 Grant Avenue, Hyannis; 12:00pm MDT, Red’s Cafe, 404 NW First Street, Mullen; 6:00pm CDT, Tumbleweed Cafe, 850 East South East Street, Broken Bow. Thursday, April 1, 2010: 8:00am CDT, Business Roundtable at Xpanxion Office, 652 N Street, Loup City; 11:00am CDT, The Sweet Shoppe, 605 Howard Avenue, St. Paul; 12:30pm CDT, Fullerton High School, 606 4th Street, Fullerton; 2:30 pm CDT, Dusters Restaurant, 2804 13th Street, Columbus.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for now, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still meet through The Nebraska Food Cooperative, an on-line, year-round farmers’ market and local food distribution service offering the best in local freshness. For ordering and pickup schedules, refer to the calendar here.  Click here for products and prices from North Star Neighbors, a Cooperative member that doesn’t therapeutically medicate or unduly confine animals. Click here for Tomato Tomäto, Omaha’s year-round indoor Farmer’s Market at 156th & West Center. Shop for fresh foods grown in or very near your own community at Open Harvest, Lincoln’s member-owned natural foods retail cooperative in expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

HELP NEBRASKA GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Each time you search the Internet (or shop online at a participating store), a donation can be made to Nebraska Green Party at no cost to you! To help NGP in this way, enter Nebraska Green Party where it says WHO DO YOU GOODSEARCH FOR? here. Every time you use the GoodSearch toolbar, one penny will be donated to Nebraska Greens. Download the GoodSearch Toolbar here. THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

We are no longer the alternative; we are the imperative. –Rosa Clemente

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

WORLD WATER WEEK . . . World Water Week will be celebrated at Nebraska Wesleyan University with the following activities. Monday, March 22nd, pledges to save water will be made and free water bottles will be distributed at a booth in Smith Curtis, 51st and Madison Avenue, 9:00am to 3:00pm. Tuesday, March 23rd, FLOW, a documentary on water issues, will show in Olin B Lecture Hall, one block east of 50th Street and St. Paul Avenue, at NWU, 7:00pm, followed by a discussion. Sunday, March 28th, there will be a Peace Meal, noon to 2:00pm, at First United Methodist Church, 2723 North 50th Street, Lincoln. See PEACEMAKING WORKSHOP XXIII below for related “Caring for Your Local Planet” events.

NEW ARENA OR NO NEW ARENA IN PROPOSED LOCATION? . . . Opponents of a proposed $344 million arena plan subsidized by Lincoln taxpayers will meet Saturday, March 27, 2010, 10:00am, at Bess Dodson Walt Branch City Library, 6701 South 14th Street. Opponents object to the proposed location for clearly documented reasons: Lack of fiscal responsibility–The City of Lincoln will increase it’s debt burden tremendously; destruction of the historic Landmark District environment, a vibrant creative downtown mixed residential/commercial neighborhood; disregard for the designated flood plain of the Salt Creek area; lack of environmental vision for more sustainable/green urban development; and the false sense of democracy being promoted with a May 11, 2010 vote on a $25 million bond–only a small part of the $344 million project.  “Arena financing 101” Q & A is here.  “Where the Devaney fits into arena plans” is here.  Click here, phone Lynn Darling at 402.438.5005, or e-mail KathyKBD [at] aol [dot] com to learn more and volunteer help. Click here to become a “Vote NO to Lincoln’s Haymarket Arena” Facebook fan. See March 24th 7:00pm PUBLIC FORUM information below. SAVE THE HAYMARKET.

VIGIL AGAINST THE DEATH PENALTY . . . Every Monday, from noon to 1:00pm, Nebraskans for abolition of the death penalty meet at the information desk on the lower level of the State Capitol. The lunch-hour presence reminds senators of a constituency that does not want state killings. Weekly vigils have taken place year-round since July, 1991. All abolitionists are welcome to participate for a few minutes, or the hour. For information about Nebraskans Against the Death Penalty, click here.

EARTH DAY 2010 . . . The 40th Anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated in Lincoln on Saturday, April 24, 2010, 2:00 to 6:00pm at Antelope Park, with evening activities in the Haymarket. Earth Day planning meetings are every Tuesday, 5:30 to 7:00pm, at the Community Foundation Building, 215 Centennial Mall South, in the fifth flood conference room. To host a booth or exhibit, join a committee and help plan the event, or get involved in any other way, e-mail emilymckeone [at] yahoo [dot] com or phone 402.250.4100. Or just go to a Tuesday night meeting and get involved.

LEARN THE FACTS . . . A spokesperson from No2Arena will answer call-in questions Tuesday, March 23, 2010, 11:00pm to midnight, on Lincoln’s community radion station, KZUM, 89.3fm. Call 402.474.5086 with comments or questions.

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils continue at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

PUBLIC FORUM ON NEW ARENA . . . Wednesday, March 24, 2010, 7:00pm, the League of Women Voters Lincoln-Lancaster County will hold a public forum about the arena election. “Haymarket Arena: Yes or No?” will be at the Unitarian Church, 6300 A Street. Speaking in support of the arena will be Jennifer Brinkman, a consultant from the pro-arena campaign. Speaking against the project will be Kandra Hahn, an administrator at UN-L. They will answer questions from the League, and written questions from the audience. The forum will be moderated by former City Library Director Carol Connor.

EARTH HOUR … During Earth Hour, Saturday, March 27, 2010, at 8:30pm local time, hundreds of millions of people around the world will unite in solidarity to call for action on climate change by simply turning off their lights for one hour. The movement symbolizes that by working together, each of us can make a positive impact, protecting our future and that of the next generations. Sign up to join the global action here.  Watch the official Earth Hour Video here.

SAVE THE HAYMARKET . . . No2Arena will meet Saturday, March 27, 2010, 10:00am, at Bess Dodson Walt Branch City Library, 6701 South 14th Street.

PEACEMAKING WORKSHOP XXIII . . . “Caring for Your Local Planet” will be the focus of this year’s Peacemaking Workshop XXIII, Friday, March 26, and Saturday, March 27, 2010, in Lincoln. Internationally-renowned wildlife photographer and conservationist Joel Sartore will be the featured speaker, sharing photographs and experiences that direct attention to what we all can do, both locally and globally, to care for the Earth and its resources. Schedule of Events:  Friday, March 26, 2:00pm, Olin B Lecture Hall, one block east of 50th Street and St. Paul Avenue, at Nebraska Wesleyan University, “Witnessing Change: A Call for Action.” This Sartore presentation includes images and discussion of some of North America’s most endangered species. Friday, March 26, 7:00pm, First United Methodist Church, 2723 North 50th Street,  “Grounded: A Reflection on the Use of Life and Land.” Wild places and Earth’s creatures need and deserve protection. Saturday, March 27, 8:30 to 11:30am, East Lincoln Christian Church, 7001 Edenton Road, “Community Discussion,” including a panel from several denominations, focusing on specific actions to protect and sustain the environment. Panelists include Barbara Hipple, Mission & Outreach Coordinator for Homestead Presbytery, Carol Windrum, Director of Risk-taking Mission & Justice of the NE United Methodist Conference, Chris Blake, Associate Professor of English and Sponsor of the Union College Chapter of Amnesty International, Mitch Paine, Sustainability Policy Intern “Cleaner Greener Lincoln.” Click here for a Workshop Brochure.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

TEEN JOB FAIR . . . The Omaha Public Library’s Fifth Annual Teen Job Fair for ages 16 to 19 will be Monday, March 22, 2010, noon to 4:00pm, at the Swanson Branch Library, 9101 West Dodge Road. Employers will be hiring teens for both part-time and summer jobs. The event is free, and registration is not required. Swanson Branch is normally closed on Mondays, but will be open March 22nd to host the Fair. Contact Linda Trout, 402.444.4838, ltrout [at] omahalibrary [dot] org or Mary Henriksen, 402.444.6284, mhenriksen [at] omahalibrary [dot] org.

BENSON SUSTAINABILITY . . . February 10, 2010, sixteen community leaders gathered at the PS Collective for a discussion about how to make Benson Omaha’s most sustainable neighborhood. After a two-hour workshop, they voted on which projects are most immediately feasible deciding on 1) Creating a nonprofit arts center in the old theatre; 2) Bolstering a nonprofit farmers market to be supported by the local community; 3) Training Benson High School students to conduct energy audits of neighborhood homes; and 4) Building a community greenhouse. Tuesday, March 23, 2010, from 6:30 to 8:00pm, Benson residents and supporters are invited to share input and feedback on the community vision at an open house discussion at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street. If the neighborhood feels these projects are worth pursuing, an implementation plan will be developed.

OMAHA PEACE VIGILS . . . Omaha peacemakers vigil every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30pm, at StratCom/UN-O, 6801 Pine Street, east of the Scott Technology Center on the Un-O campus. Free parking is available at the NE Corner of 67th Street and Pine in a student lot. For more information, phone Jerry Ebner, 402.502.5887. Every Saturday, 1:00-2:00pm, there is an Anti-War and Peace Vigil at 72nd and Dodge Streets. Contact Steve Horn at 402.426.9068.

OMAHA GREEN DRINKS . . . Wednesday, March 24, 2010, Omaha Green Drinks will meet at Whole Foods Market, 10020 Regency Circle, 5:30pm until close, in the education room across from the coffee bar. The informal, self-organizing network of environmentally interested activists and friends is now meeting regularly in 622 cities worldwide. Click here for the Facebook group listing.

OMAHA PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL . . . There is a People’s Film Festival every Wednesday evening, 7:00pm, at McFoster’s Natural Kind Cafe, 38th and Harney in Omaha. The event is always free and open to the public. This week’s film is “Concerning Democracy,” a short film by a young woman who traveled the world asking people what they thought of Americans. Food and drink is available. A lively discussion follows each showing. For more information, click here. The People’s Film Festival – Expanding Political Consciousness Since 2004.

BLACK FAMILY HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR . . . The 12th Annual Black Family Health & Wellness Fair will be Saturday, March 27, 2010, 8:00am to 1:00pm, at North High Magnet School, 4410 North 36th Street, in Omaha. There will be free blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, prostate and breast cancer screenings, eye exams, and more.

SAVE THE DATE . . . Earth Day Omaha 2010 will be April 17th, 12:00 noon to 8:00pm, at Elmwood Park, 802 South 60th Street. Learn more about exhibiting efforts to advocate sustainable environmental practices and lifestyles, or register to exhibit online here.  Reach thousands of consumers interested in learning about ways to work toward a more sustainable planet as an Earth Day sponsor. Sponsorship information here. A volunteer application is here. Interested in performing? Online band sign-up is here.  Know a person or organization making extraordinary strides in protecting the environment? Make nominations for this year’s Friend of the Environment Award here.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

SANDHILL CRANES ARRIVE ON THE PLATTE . . . Nebraska’s annual phenomenon of nature, the arrival of Sandhill Cranes in spectacular numbers, has begun. The Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center, at the Alda exit 305 on Interstate 80, is open daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm, with exhibits, art displays, and two types of guided crane viewing tours. Tour reservations may be made by phone at 308.382.1820.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for now, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still meet through The Nebraska Food Cooperative, an on-line, year-round farmers’ market and local food distribution service offering the best in local freshness. For ordering and pickup schedules, refer to the calendar here.  Click here, for products and prices from North Star Neighbors, a Cooperative member that doesn’t therapeutically medicate or unduly confine animals. Click here for Tomato Tomäto, Omaha’s year-round indoor Farmer’s Market at 156th & West Center. Shop for fresh foods grown in or very near your own community at Open Harvest, Lincoln’s member-owned natural foods retail cooperative in expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

HELP NEBRASKA GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Each time you search the Internet (or shop online at a participating store), a donation can be made to Nebraska Green Party at no cost to you! To help NGP in this way, enter Nebraska Green Party where it says WHO DO YOU GOODSEARCH FOR? here.  Every time you use the GoodSearch toolbar, one penny will be donated to Nebraska Greens.  Download the GoodSearch Toolbar here. THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

We are no longer the alternative; we are the imperative. –Rosa Clemente

March 20, 2010 is the seventh anniversary of the criminal war of aggression launched by Bush and Cheney against Iraq. One million or more Iraqis have died. Tens of thousands of U.S. troops have lost their lives or been maimed, and continue to suffer enduring related problems. People from all over the country are organizing to converge on Washington, D.C. for a National March & Rally to protest the ongoing wars and occupations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Click here for coverage from TruthOut. Click here for an Endorsers List. Click here for more information. There will be coinciding mass marches on March 20 in San Francisco and Los Angeles.  Details about Omaha’s Rally are below in Congressional District 2 Green Notes.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

NEW ARENA OR NO NEW ARENA IN PROPOSED LOCATION? . . . Opponents of a proposed $344 million arena plan subsidized by Lincoln taxpayers will meet Saturday, March 20, 2010, 10:00am, at the Charles H. Gere Branch City Library, 2400 South 56th Street. Opponents object to the proposed location for many clearly documented reasons: Lack of fiscal responsibility–The City of Lincoln will increase it’s debt burden tremendously; destruction of the historic Landmark District environment, a vibrant creative downtown mixed residential/commercial neighborhood; disregard for the designated flood plain of the Salt Creek area; lack of environmental vision for more sustainable/green urban development; and the false sense of democracy being promoted with a May 11, 2010 vote on a $25 million bond–only a small part of the $344 million project. “Arena financing 101” Q & A is here.  “Where the Devaney fits into arena plans” is here.  Listen to an interview with Jane Kinsey of the No2Arena campaign on KZUM, 89.3 FM, Tuesday, March 16, from 6:00 to 7:30pm. No2Arena speakers will also be on KZUM from 11:00pm to midnight on Tuesdays, March 16 and 23rd. Phone 474.5086 during those call-in shows to comment or ask questions. Click here to become a “Vote NO to Lincoln’s Haymarket Arena” Facebook fan. SAVE THE HAYMARKET.

WOMEN’S WELLNESS WORKSHOP . . . “Women’s Wellness Jumpstart: A Path to Holistic Health,” will be held at Pioneers Park Nature Center, Saturday, March 20, 2010, 8:30am to 3:30pm. Activities including yoga, nature walks, presentations on medicinal herbs and reducing stress, plus a vegetarian lunch, are designed to refresh women’s physical, emotional and spiritual well being. The registration deadline is Monday, March 15, 2010. Phone 441.7895 for more information, and to register.

LUNCH AND LEARN . . . Reservations are due by noon Monday, March 15, 2010, for this month’s League of Women Voters “Lunch and Learn” presentation by Andrew Hove, Jr., acting Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, speaking about the current “financial mess” in this country. The event, open to the public, is at the 20th floor US Bank Building, 13th and M Streets, Lincoln. Phone 475.1411 to make reservations, or e-mail lwv-e [at] inebraska [dot] com.

VIGIL AGAINST THE DEATH PENALTY . . . Every Monday, from noon to 1:00pm, Nebraskans for abolition of the death penalty meet at the information desk on the lower level of the State Capitol. The lunch-hour presence reminds senators of a constituency that does not want state killings. Weekly vigils have taken place year-round since July, 1991. All abolitionists are welcome to participate for a few minutes, or the hour. For information about Nebraskans Against the Death Penalty, click here.

EARTH DAY 2010 . . . The 40th Anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated in Lincoln on Saturday, April 24, 2010, 2:00 to 6:00pm at Antelope Park, with evening activities in the Haymarket. Earth Day planning meetings are every Tuesday, 5:30 to 7:00pm, at the Community Foundation Building, 215 Centennial Mall South, in the fifth flood conference room. To host a booth or exhibit, join a committee and help plan the event, or get involved in any other way, e-mail emilymckeone [at] yahoo [dot] com or phone 402.250.4100. Or just go to a Tuesday night meeting and get involved.

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils continue at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

SHRINE CIRCUS PROTEST . . . Wednesday, March 17, 2010, there will be a protest of the Shrine Circus. ARAN, Animal Rights Advocates of Nebraska, and other friends of animals, will meet at Pershing Center, 226 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, from 5:45 to 7:30pm. To see more details and RSVP, follow the Facebook link here.

GARDENING LECTURES . . . Best-selling writer Amy Stewart, author of four books on botany and nature, will give two public lectures Thursday, March 18, 2010, at Southeast Community College Continuing Education Center, 301 South 68th Street Place, in Lincoln. “Wicked Plants: The Deliciously Dark Side of the Plant Kingdom,” will be at 4:00pm, and “The Global Garden: Connecting the World of Horticulture to Your Own Backyard,” will be at 7:00pm. Phone 437.2700 to register. Registration is encouraged. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

REOPENING EVENT . . . The Nebraska League of Conservation Voters will host a reopening event Friday, March 19, 2010, 5:00 to 8:00pm, at Zen’s Lounge, 122 North 11 Street, Lincoln.  All are welcome to meet the new Executive Director, and help support the reopened office with a suggested donation of $20, $10 for students.

SPRING CREEK PRAIRIE EVENT . . . “In Search of a Season: A Spring Treasure Hunt,” will be Saturday, March 20, 2010, 9:00am to noon, at Spring Creek Prairie, a 808-acre tallgrass nature preserve located 20 minutes southwest of Lincoln. The event is designed for teams of two to ten, outfitted with a map and clues for finding treasures hidden along the trail. Starting times for teams are every 20 minutes. Pre-register for a starting time schedule by Thursday, March 18, and learn more by calling 402.797.2301.

FRIENDS OF WILDERNESS PARK MEETING . . . “The Native Plants of Wilderness Park” will be presented by writers Kay Young and Robert Klein, “Farmer Bill” Hawkins, and Amy Brt, of Community CROPS, Sunday, March 21, 2010, 3:00pm, at the Unitarian Church, 6300 A Street in Lincoln. Leadplant Tea will be served. The presentation is free and open to the public. Contact Rosina Paolini with any questions at 402.423.1260.

THE VISION OF HOPE . . . Is excessive military force the answer, or can love play a part? “The Vision of Hope,” a thirty-four panel art exhibit, is on display in the 2nd floor hallway at First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D St Lincoln, NE. The free exhibit is open to the public and sponsored by the First-Plymouth Peace and Justice Team.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

FINDING OUR VOICE AS PROGRESSIVES . . . An organizing meeting for those interested in helping set up venues to present “Finding Our Voice as Progressives,” workshops based on the book “Don’t Think of an Elephant” by George Lakoff, or helping develop a more general workshop for the public, will be Monday, March 15, 2010, 7:00 pm, 1214 North 34th Street, in Omaha. Click here to learn more. All are welcome.

LEAD AND HEALTHY HOMES CONFERENCE . . . Monday & Tuesday, March 15 & 16, 2010, the Omaha Lead and Healthy Homes Conference will be at the UN-O Milo Bail Student Center, 6001 Dodge Street, beginning at 8:30am both days. Topics include environmental health, resources in the community, and potential problems in the home. For more information, click here to visit the Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance website.

OMAHA PEACE VIGILS . . . Omaha peacemakers vigil every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30pm, at StratCom/UN-O, 6801 Pine Street, east of the Scott Technology Center on the UN-O campus. Free parking is available at the NE Corner of 67th Street and Pine in a student lot. For more information, phone Jerry Ebner, 402.502.5887. Every Saturday, 1:00-2:00pm, there is an Anti-War and Peace Vigil at 72nd and Dodge Streets. Contact Steve Horn at 402.426.9068.

OMAHA PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL . . . There is a People’s Film Festival every Wednesday evening, 7:00pm, at McFoster’s Natural Kind Cafe, 38th and Harney in Omaha. The event is always free and open to the public. This week’s film is “The Democratic Promise: Saul Alinsky & His Legacy.” Alec Baldwin narrates this documentary on the legendary community organizer and his modern-day legacy. For more information, click here. The People’s Film Festival – Expanding Political Consciousness Since 2004.

MEL CHIN LECTURE AND COMMUNITY WORKSHOP . . . The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Omaha will host internationally recognized artist Mel Chin for a lecture and community workshop this weekend. Omaha has one of the largest residential Superfund sites in the nation registered by the EPA for contamination from lead. Through his projects, Chin aims to raise awareness, collect funds, and find solutions for the environmental threat of lead-poisoning in cities throughout the United States. His Omaha lecture, “What Mattered THEN, Matters NOW: Part II Projects compelled by Crisis and Dreams Reframed,” will be Friday, March 19, 2010, at 7:00pm. The Community Workshop, “Engaging in a 300 Million Dollar Difference Operation Paydirt and the Fundred Dollar Bill, will be Saturday, March 20, 2010, at 11:00am. Both events are free, open to the public, and will take place at the Omaha Public Schools Teacher Administration Center, 3215 Cuming Street.

WITHDRAW OUR TROOPS SOLIDARITY RALLY . . . Omaha’s “Withdraw Our Overseas Troops Rally” will be from 1:00 to 2:00pm, at 72nd and Dodge Streets, Saturday, March 20, 2010. Join with people across the country rallying to Bring The Troops Home Now! Bring Signs, Drums, Kazoos, and other Methods of Mass Instruction. Click here for more information about the national rally.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

SANDHILL CRANES ARRIVE ON THE PLATTE . . . Nebraska’s annual phenomenon of nature, the arrival of Sandhill Cranes in spectacular numbers, has begun. The Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center, at the Alda exit 305 on Interstate 80, is open daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm, with exhibits, art displays, and two types of guided crane viewing tours. Tour reservations may be made by phone at 308.382.1820.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for now, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still meet through The Nebraska Food Cooperative, an on-line, year-round farmers’ market and local food distribution service offering the best in local freshness. For ordering and pickup schedules, refer to the calendar here. Click here for products and prices from North Star Neighbors, a Cooperative member that doesn’t therapeutically medicate or unduly confine animals. Click here for Tomato Tomäto, Omaha’s year-round indoor Farmer’s Market at 156th & West Center. Shop for fresh foods grown in or very near your own community at Open Harvest, Lincoln’s member-owned natural foods retail cooperative at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

HELP NEBRASKA GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Each time you search the Internet (or shop online at a participating store), a donation can be made to Nebraska Green Party at no cost to you! To help NGP in this way, enter Nebraska Green Party where it says WHO DO YOU GOODSEARCH FOR? here. Every time you use GoodSearch, one penny will be donated to Nebraska Greens. Download the GoodSearch Toolbar here. THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

We are no longer the alternative; we are the imperative. –Rosa Clemente

PEACEMAKING WORKSHOP XXIII . . . Amateur photographers of all ages are invited to enter an environmental photo contest as part of the Peacemaking Workshop XXIII March 26 and 27, 2010. Deadline for submissions is 4:00pm, Friday, March 12th. Photos should communicate environmental awareness in either of two categories: environmental protection or threats to the environment. Renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore will select the winners. For details, and to submit photos, click here.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

NEW ARENA OR NO ARENA IN PROPOSED LOCATION? . . . Opponents of a proposed $344 million arena plan subsidized by Lincoln taxpayers will meet Saturday, March 13, 2010, 10:30am, at Bess Dodson Walt Branch City Library, 6701 South 14th Street. Opponents object to the proposed location for many clearly documented reasons: Lack of fiscal responsibility–The City of Lincoln will increase it’s debt burden tremendously; destruction of the historic Landmark District environment, a vibrant creative downtown mixed residential/commercial neighborhood; disregard for the designated flood plain of the Salt Creek area; lack of environmental vision for more sustainable/green urban development; and the false sense of democracy being promoted with a May 11, 2010 vote on a $25 million bond–only a small part of the $344 million project. “Arena financing 101” Q & A is here.  “Where the Devaney fits into arena plans” is here.  To learn more, and volunteer help educating Lincoln voters, Click here, phone Lynn Darling at 402.438.5005, or e-mail KathyKBD [at] aol [dot] com. Click here to become a “Vote NO to Lincoln’s Haymarket Arena” Facebook fan. SAVE THE HAYMARKET.

VIGIL AGAINST THE DEATH PENALTY . . . Every Monday, noon to 1:00pm, Nebraskans for abolition of the death penalty meet at the information desk on the lower level of the State Capitol. The lunch-hour presence reminds senators of a constituency that does not want state killings. Weekly vigils have taken place year-round since July, 1991. All abolitionists are welcome to participate for a few minutes, or the hour. For information about Nebraskans Against the Death Penalty, click here.

EARTH DAY 2010 . . . The 40th Anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated in Lincoln on Saturday, April 24, 2010, 2:00 to 6:00pm at Antelope Park, with evening activities in the Haymarket. Earth Day planning meetings are every Tuesday, 5:30 to 7:00pm, at the Community Foundation Building, 215 Centennial Mall South, in the fifth flood conference room. To host a booth or exhibit, join a committee and help plan the event, or get involved in any other way, e-mail emilymckeone [at] yahoo [dot] com or phone 402.250.4100. Or just go to a Tuesday night meeting and get involved!

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils continue at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

DINNER FUNDRAISER FOR MATT TALBOT . . . “Feeding the Soul of the City,” the annual fundraising dinner for Matt Talbot Kitchen, will be Thursday, March 11, 2010, starting at 6:00 with social hour, followed by 7:00pm dinner and program, at Embassy Suites, 1040 P Street, Lincoln. Last year Matt Talbot provided 107,272 meals, and staff worked to help more than 2,500 clients receive 17,362 services. For more information and reservations, contact Susie Wilson at 402 477.4116 or susiemtko [at] windstream [dot] net.

PUBLIC MEETING ON ALTERNATIVES TO THE MILITARY . . . Sunday, March 14, 2010, there will be a public meeting in the Chapel at First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street, Lincoln, 7:00pm, to discuss various visions of security. The forum, sponsored by the Peace and Justice Team, takes place in conjunction with a thirty-four panel art exhibit on display in the second floor hallway of the church. “Is excessive U.S. military force the answer, or does love work?” will be discussed by Chris Hove, a former Navy Pilot, Bill Plock, who experienced the 1960’s in the Missile Unit at Strategic Air Command, and Nebraskans For Peace President Paul Olson, offering “The Vision of Hope, Another way to meet the security need.” The exhibit and event are open to the public without charge. For more information, phone Julie Fischer at 489.7803.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

OMAHA PEACE VIGILS . . . Omaha peacemakers vigil every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30pm, atStratCom/UN-O, 6801 Pine Street, east of the Scott Technology Center on the Un-O campus. Freeparking is available at the NE Corner of 67th Street and Pine in a student lot. For moreinformation, phone Jerry Ebner, 402.502.5887. Every Saturday, 1:00-2:00pm, there is an Anti-War and Peace Vigil at 72nd and Dodge Streets. Contact Steve Horn at 402.426.9068.

OMAHA PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL . . . There is a People’s Film Festival every Wednesday evening, 7:00pm, at McFoster’s Natural Kind Cafe, 38th and Harney in Omaha. The event is always free and open to the public. This week’s film is Palestine Blues. The documentary follows repercussions of the Israeli “Security Wall” and Settlement expansion in Palestinian farming communities of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Food and drink is available. This week’s Discussion Leader is Safana Makhdoom, M.D., member of Nebraskans for Peace Palestine Task Force. For more information, click here. The People’s Film Festival – Expanding Political Consciousness Since 2004.

PROGRESSIVE OMAHA MEETING . . . Progressive Omaha will meet Saturday, March 13, 2010, 6:00 to 9:00pm at 4924 Chicago, on the northeast corner of 5Oth Street and Chicago, in Dundee. The speaker will be Jo Peterson, Associate Professor of Social Work at Dana College, talking about “Applying Systems Theory to Organizing.” Peterson worked for the women’s rights movement in the 1970’s. She has challenged the United States government on nuclear policy, and worked toward successful ratification of the Chemical Weapons Convention Treaty. There will be a potluck from 6:00 to 7:00. Peterson will speak from 7:00 to 8:00pm. A brief business meeting and social time will follow the presentation.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

SANDHILL CRANES ARRIVE ON THE PLATTE . . . Nebraska’s annual phenomenon of nature, the arrival of Sandhill Cranes in spectacular numbers, has begun. The Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center, at the Alda exit 305 on Interstate 80, is open daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm, with exhibits, art displays, and two types of guided crane viewing tours. Tour reservations may be made by phone at 308.382.1820.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets will resume, but during winter months, farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople meet through The Nebraska Food Cooperative, an on-line, year-round farmers’ market and local food distribution service. For ordering and pickup schedules, refer to the calendar here. Click here, for products and prices from North Star Neighbors, a Cooperative member that doesn’t therapeutically medicate or unduly confine animals. Click here for Tomato Tomäto, Omaha’s year-round indoor Farmer’s Market at 156th & West Center. Shop for fresh foods grown in or very near your own community at Open Harvest, Lincoln’s member-owned natural foods retail cooperative at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

HELP NEBRASKA GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Each time you search the Internet (or shop online at a participating store), a donation can be made to Nebraska Green Party at no cost to you! To help NGP in this way, enter Nebraska Green Party where it says WHO DO YOU GOODSEARCH FOR? here. Every time you use GoodSearch, one penny will be donated to Nebraska Greens. Download the GoodSearch Toolbar here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

We are no longer the alternative; we are the imperative. –Rosa Clemente