NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne Thraen has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

GROW AND SHARE FRESH PRODUCE . . . Beginning Monday, July 14, 2008, area gardeners are invited to take excess fruits and vegetables to Campbell’s Nurseries, 2342 South 40th Street and 7000 South 56th Street, Lincoln, where it will be collected by the Food Bank and distributed to 100 agencies in Southeast Nebraska that serve low-income individuals and families. Produce may also be dropped off at the Food Bank, 4840 Doris Bair Circle (three blocks north of 48th & Superior Streets), 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Do not pre-wash or refrigerate produce, and transport it in paper sacks rather than plastic bags to avoid spoilage.

VOTE FOR KIDS . . . Organizational meetings to help raise childrens’ issues in Nebraska are scheduled for Monday, July 14, 2008, in Omaha at the UN-O Milo Bail Student Center Ballroom, 11:00am to noon; in Lincoln, Tuesday, July 15th, 11:00am to noon at the Lincoln Community Foundation, 215 Centennial Mall South 5th Floor Conference Room; and in Grand Island, Wednesday, July 16, 11:00am to noon at the Saint Francis Memorial Health Center. For additional information, call Sarah Ann at 402-597-3100 or Terry at 402-477-7344. Online, visit http://www.everychildmatters.org/Nebraska.

LINCOLN CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR ETHICS IN GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGN . . . Should seated City Council members be allowed to continue making money for themselves by contracting with the City? With 4,712 valid signatures of Lincoln residents, this question can be added to the November 4, 2008 ballot. Help gather signatures by circulating petitions available from organizers Patte Newman, former City Councilperson, and Vic Covalt. Signatures are needed by Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Petitions are available at Covalt’s office at 1045 Lincoln Mall, Suite 200 (free parking in the back), and a notary is available there when forms are returned. For more information, contact Covalt by phone at 402.436.3030, or e-mail vcovalt at ballewcovalt dot com.

FELLING OF LINCOLN HIGH TREES A DISGRACE . . . The Lincoln Journal Star Local View linked here provides background information about the destruction of numerous mature trees at Lincoln High School, some of which were planted as memorials to former principals, to honor Vietnam POWs and those missing in action, and to commemorate Lincoln High’s Centennial. In addition to sentimental, visual, and aesthetic value of the trees, there are other issues: the cost to maintain new vegetation, the ecological impact of removing trees that provided oxygen and shade, the fact that they also provided a noise barrier between traffic on Capitol Parkway and the school, the fact that removal of the trees west of the building will now expose it to afternoon sun requiring more of the cooling system, and the cost of uprooting these trees, buying new ones, and planting them. ACTION: Communicate opposition to a variety of people in an effort to persuade the Board of Education to discontinue this tree removal plan in favor of a more reasonable compromise. Write letters to the editor of the Lincoln Journal Star: oped at journalstar dot com. Call or write: Michael Wortman, Principal of Lincoln High School, 402.436.1301 or e-mail mwortman at lps dot org; Susan Gourley, Superintendent of Schools, 402.4361000, sgourley at lps dot org, and e-mail your School Board representative at http://www.lps.org/about/board/#members.

GREENING YOUR OFFICE 101: LUNCH AND LEARN . . . The Green Office will present a webinar on Wednesday, July 16, 2008, 11:45am to 1:15pm, at the Lancaster County Extension Office, 444 Cherry Creek Road, in Lincoln. The cost includes lunch. For more information, contact April Hilpert-Whitney, by phone at 402.434.7376, or e-mail ahilpert at wastecapne dot org.

WEDNESDAY PEACE VIGILS . . . Join weekly peace vigils at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets in Lincoln, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402-499-6672 or mark at weddleton dot com for more information.

ALTERNATIVES TO THE MILITARY . . . Thursday, July 17, 2008, join Greens and Peacemakers from Alternatives to the Military for the annual ATM pot luck dinner to award Peacemaker of the Year. This year’s Honoree is longtime Lincoln activist Nan Graf, key advocate of Nebraskans for Justice for political prisoners Ed Poindexter and Mondo we Langa. Gather at Christ United Methodist Church, 45th & A Streets, Lincoln, 5:30pm. Bring a dish to share. Or, if you support alternatives to the military, just show up and meet Lincoln area Peacemakers. There is always enough food. RSVP: ruththone at msn dot com.

WACO WESTERN DAYS PARADE . . . Larrick for Senate will join the Waco Parade on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at 4:00 pm. Waco is west of Seward, about six miles east of York. To let Steve know you would like to support his campaign by joining him in the Parade, contact him at slarrick1 at msn dot com, phone him at 402.435.5612, or e-mail anthony.dicostanzo at gmail dot com.

SLOW FOOD NEBRASKA . . . The public is invited to attend a free “100-mile potluck” on Sunday, June 29, 2008, 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Holmes Lake, Shelter Number 1. Bring a dish made with ingredients that come from within 100 miles, table service and cups. Food sources included backyard gardens, farmers markets, food co-ops that carry local produce and local commercial growers.

LARRICK ON NEBRASKA PUBLIC RADIO . . . US Senate Candidates, including Steve Larrick, will be interviewed about their ENERGY positions during the Morning News, Tuesday, July 1, 2008, between 6:00 and 7:00am on KUCV, 91.1fm.

LINCOLN CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR ETHICS IN GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGN . . . Should seated City Council members be allowed to continue making money for themselves by contracting with the City? With 4,712 valid signatures of Lincoln residents, this question can be added to the November 4, 2008 ballot. Help gather signatures by circulating petitions available from organizers Patte Newman, former City Councilperson, and Vic Covalt. Signatures are needed by Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Petitions are available at Covalt’s office at 1045 Lincoln Mall, Suite 200 (free parking in the back), and a notary is available there when forms are returned. For more information, contact Covalt by phone at 402.436.3030, or e-mail vcovalt at ballewcovalt dot com.

FELLING OF LINCOLN HIGH TREES A DISGRACE . . . The letter to Lincoln Journal Star editor linked here provides background information about the destruction of numerous mature trees at Lincoln High School, some of which were planted as memorials to former principals, to honor Vietnam POWs and those missing in action, and to commemorate Lincoln High’s Centennial. In addition to sentimental, visual, and aesthetic value of the trees, there are other issues: the cost to maintain new vegetation, the ecological impact of removing trees that provided oxygen and shade, the fact that they also provided a noise barrier between traffic on Capitol Parkway and the school, the fact that removal of the trees west of the building will now expose it to afternoon sun requiring more of the cooling system, and the cost of uprooting these trees, buying new ones, and planting them. ACTION: Communicate opposition to a variety of people in an effort to persuade the Board of Education to discontinue this tree removal plan in favor of a more reasonable compromise. Write letters to the editor of the Lincoln Journal Star: oped at journalstar dot com. Call or write: Michael Wortman, Principal of Lincoln High School, 402.436.1301 or e-mail mwortman at lps dot org; Susan Gourley, Superintendent of Schools, 402.4361000, sgourley at lps dot org, and e-mail your School Board representative at http://www.lps.org/about/board/#members.

PUBLIC HEARING ON TIGER BEETLE HABITAT . . . Tuesday, July 1, 2008, 6:00 to 8:00pm, there will be a public hearing on a proposal to designate 1,795 acres in Lancaster and Saunders counties as critical habitat for the endangered Salt Creek tiger beetle. Considered one of the rarest insects in the US, it lives in saline wetlands found in eastern Nebraska. The hearing will take place at the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District office, 3125 Portia Street, in Lincoln. There will be an information open house from 4:00 to 6:00pm before the hearing.

WEDNESDAY PEACE VIGILS . . . Join weekly peace vigils at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets in Lincoln, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402-499-6672 or mark at weddleton dot com for more information.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . Nebraska has been targeted by a California based “Civil Rights Initiative” that would deny equal opportunities in this state and change the Nebraskan constitution. Well-financed out-of-state political groups are paying petition circulators to gather signatures using misleading language with the intent of eliminating affirmative action and its principles of equity and fairness. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against this petition initiative. DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here.  Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action. To set up training for volunteers, make a donation, report sites where signatures are being gathered, or add your group to a growing list of campaign supporters, call Danielle at 402-432-3394 or email D_Nantkes at yahoo.com.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne Thraen has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

LINCOLN AREA GREENS MONTHLY MEETING . . . Congressional District 1 Greens will meet Tuesday, June 24, 2008, 7:00pm at Jones Coffee, 727 South 11th Street, in Lincoln. Greg Keller, a Lincoln High School journalism teacher, will speak about the destruction of numerous mature trees at the school, some of which were planted as memorials to former principals, to honor Vietnam POWs and those missing in action, and to commemorate Lincoln High’s Centennial. “Felling of Lincoln High trees a disgrace,” a Lincoln Journal Star letter to the editor, is here for background. In addition to sentimental, visual, and aesthetic value of the trees, there are other issues: the cost to maintain new vegetation, the ecological impact of removing trees that provided oxygen and shade, the fact that they also provided a noise barrier between traffic on Capitol Parkway and the school, the fact that removal of the trees west of the building will now expose it to afternoon sun requiring more of the cooling system, and the cost of uprooting these trees, buying new ones, and planting them. ACTION: Communicate opposition to a variety of people in an effort to persuade the Board of Education to discontinue this tree removal plan in favor of a more reasonable compromise. Write letters to the editor of the Lincoln Journal Star: oped at journalstar dot com. Call or write: Michael Wortman, Principal of Lincoln High School, 402.436.1301 or e-mail mwortman at lps dot org; Susan Gourley, Superintendent of Schools, 402.4361000, sgourley at lps dot org, and e-mail your School Board representative here.

LINCOLN GREEN DRINKS . . . Students and people working in the environmental field as professionals, volunteers, or activists are invited to meet at social networking, self-organizing events known as Green Drinks every fourth Wednesday of even months (June, August, October, December, February, April) in Lincoln at Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill, 210 North 7th Street, starting at 5:30pm. The informal, organic groups meet in 380 cities worldwide. The June date is Wednesday, June 25, 2008.

FORUM ON GLOBAL WARMING . . . On Thursday, June 26, 2008, 7:00pm at UN-O Milo Bail Student Center, Dodge Rooms A and B, OXFAM and Nebraskans for Peace are presenting a forum on Global Warming featuring Panelists Bruce E. Johansen, UN-O professor and author; environmental educator Maril Hazlett; Un-L professor and editorialist Paul Olson; and farmer, rancher, educator, Oxfam organizer Jim French. What the Peace and Justice community does to address the looming implications of global climate change will be discussed in panel from 7:00 to 8:00pm, followed by Q&A. We need not accept environmental and military doomsday. Contact Paul Olson, polson2 at unlnotes dot unl dot edu, to carpool from Lincoln or central Nebraska.

GREEN YOUR HOME . . . Friday, June 27, 2008, the authors of “The Carbon Free Home: 36 Remodeling Projects to Kick the Fossil Fuel Habit,” will be at the downtown Omaha Public Library, 215 South 15th Street, 4th Floor, noon to 1:30pm. Bring your lunch. Learn green tips and projects from Stephen Hren, a writer retrofitting his home in Durham, North Carolina, to be fossil fuel free.

GROWING UP GREEN: RAISING ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS KIDS . . .The Green Omaha Coalition’s Green Neighborhood Council presents a Saturday, June 28, 2008, morning of hands-on green activities for children and adults, 10:00am to noon, at the Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 South 20th Street, downtown Omaha. Learn about gardening and composting, make green toys, create green art, and listen to green stories at the free workshop, open to the public. Rsvp Julie: jwasser at tnc dot org.

SLOW FOOD NEBRASKA . . . The public is invited to attend a free “100-mile potluck” on Sunday, June 29, 2008, 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Holmes Lake, Shelter Number 1. Bring a dish made with ingredients that come from within 100 miles, table service and cups. Food sources included backyard gardens, farmers markets, food co-ops that carry local produce and local commercial growers.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . Nebraska has been targeted by a California based “Civil Rights Initiative” that would deny equal opportunities in this state and change the Nebraskan constitution. Well-financed out-of-state political groups are paying petition circulators to gather signatures using misleading language with the intent of eliminating affirmative action and its principles of equity and fairness. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against this petition initiative. DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here.  Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action. To set up training for volunteers, make a donation, report sites where signatures are being gathered, or add your group to a growing list of campaign supporters, call Danielle at 402-432-3394 or email D_Nantkes at yahoo.com.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne Thraen has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

LARRICK INVITED TO DEBATE . . . US Senate candidate Steve Larrick has been invited to participate in two future debates following a Green Party protest of his exclusion from the American Legion Boys State debate on Thursday, June 5, 2008. Larrick will join Republican Mike Johanns and Democrat Scott Kleeb on Saturday, August 23, at a State Fair debate sponsored by Nebraska Farm Bureau and the Rural Radio Network, KRVN. On Tuesday, August 12, Larrick will participate in a South Platte United Chambers of Commerce Meet-the-Candidates-Bar-B-Q at Fort Kearney State Park in Hastings.

NEBRASKA GREENS 2008 CONVENTION . . . Saturday, June 7, 2008 the Nebraska Green Party Convention was held at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street, in Benson, Nebraska’s emerging sustainable community neighborhood. National Green Party Steering Committee member Marc Sanson gave the keynote address. Delegates to the National Convention, July 10-13, 2008 at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago, and new NGP Executive Committee members were elected. See ’08 Convention on the Menu bar.

WEDNESDAY PEACE VIGILS . . . Join weekly peace vigils at the Federal Building, 15th and O streets in Lincoln, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Contact Mark at 402-499-6672 or mark at weddleton dot com for more information.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . Nebraska has been targeted by a California based “Civil Rights Initiative” that would deny equal opportunities in this state and change the Nebraskan constitution.  Well-financed out-of-state political groups are paying petition circulators to gather signatures using misleading language with the intent of eliminating affirmative action and its principles of equity and fairness. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against this petition initiative. DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here. http://www.NebraskansUnited.org Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action. To set up training for volunteers, make a donation, report sites where signatures are being gathered, or add your group to a growing list of campaign supporters, call Danielle at 402-432-3394 or email D_Nantkes at yahoo.com.

FOSTERING PEACE IN THE FAMILY . . . Iowa Psychologists Kristie and Paul Conditt will give practical tips on how to build an environment of respect, nurture, and peace in the home at two workshops on Saturday, June 21, 2008, North Star High School, 5801 North 33rd Street, Lincoln.
A 1:30pm workshop will repeat at 4:30pm. Themes will include how to be peaceful in relationships, promoting respect, nurturing an appreciative family, raising children and grandchildren to be instruments of peace. The workshop is offered in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Central Plains Mennonite Conference. The public is invited. Donations accepted. Contact David Orr, 402-467-1526, for further information.

NEBRASKA PRIDE WEEKEND . . . Friday, June 20, through Sunday, June 22, 2008, Nebraska’s GLBT communities in Lincoln and Omaha will join for Rainbow Celebrations affirming, strengthening, and celebrating inclusiveness for all. Click here www.rainbowcelebrations.org for schedules, affiliated events, and contact information.

WHOOPING CRANE TRUST OPEN HOUSE . . . Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, 2008, the Platte River Whooping Crane Maintenance Trust will celebrate its 30th anniversary with an open house at the headquarters building, 6611 West Whooping Crane Drive near Wood River, Nebraska.  Saturday events begin at 6:00am with bird banding, followed by bird watching, a prairie walk, children’s activities and games, youth fishing, arts and photography and a video presentation from 1:30 to 3:00pm. For more information and directions from Interstate 80, phone 308-384-4633, extensions 201 and 208.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are: U.S. Senate; Steven R. Larrick Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman Douglas County Board District 3: Derek Glaser Douglas County Board District 5: Susan Koneck Laverne Thraen has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

LARRICK EXCLUDED FROM FIRST DEBATE . . . Greens and Nebraska Coalition for Peace activists protested exclusion of US Senate Green Party candidate Steve Larrick from the June 5, 2008 American Legion Boys State debate on the UN-L campus at Kimball Hall. Larrick gave media interviews, and spoke with several Boys State students before the event. After the debate, both Republican candidate Mike Johanns and Democratic candidate Scott Kleeb spoke with Larrick, expressing support for inclusion of all candidates in future debates.

NEBRASKA GREENS MEET IN CONVENTION . . . Saturday, June 7, 2008 the Nebraska Green Party Convention was held at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street, in Benson, Nebraska’s emerging sustainable community neighborhood. National Green Party Steering Committee member Marc Sanson gave the keynote address. Delegates to the National Convention, July 10-13, 2008 at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago, and new NGP Executive Commitee members were elected.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . Nebraska has been targeted by a California based “Civil Rights Initiative” that would deny equal opportunities in this state and change the Nebraskan constitution. Well-financed out-of-state political groups are paying petition circulators to gather signatures using misleading language with the intent of eliminating affirmative action and its principles of equity and fairness. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against this petition initiative. DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here.  Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action. To set up training for volunteers, make a donation, report sites where signatures are being gathered, or add your group to a growing list of campaign supporters, call Danielle at 402-432-3394 or email D_Nantkes at yahoo.com.

AMNESTY INTERATIONAL LETTER WRITING GROUP . . . Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 7:00 to 9:00pm, activists and concerned supporters will meet at Jones Coffee, 727 South 11th Street, Lincoln, to learn about human rights violations around the world, what is being done to address them, and write letters on Amnesty International identified issues and cases. Join them for a fair trade coffee and spend 30 minutes or two hours getting involved. For more information, contact Matt Gregory at 402-570-7840 or plylas at hotmail dot com.

NEBRASKA: THREE RIVERS RUN THROUGH IT WITH DR. PAUL JOHNSGARD . . . Thursday, June 12, 7:00pm, Wachiska Audubon will continue a 35 year anniversary celebration at an evening with lifelong bird conservationist and writer Paul Johnsgard. Johnsgard will discuss the Republican, Platte and Niobrara rivers, their ecologies, wildlife, and conservation issues, and be awarded the 2008 National Audubon Society‘s Callison Award, in recognition of his volunteer efforts. The meeting is in room 3, lower level of the Union College Dick Administration Building, 3800 South 48th Street, Lincoln. Directions: From 48th and Calvert streets, go one block south to Bancroft Ave. Turn east onto the Union College campus. Continue for two blocks and park in lots on the south. There will be Audubon signs on the doors of the Dick Building.

PRO-CHOICE COALITION MEETING . . . There is a likely possibility that a ban on abortion will be introduced in the 2009 legislature. Thursday, June 12, 2008, 6:00pm, there will be a meeting to discuss how local organizations would respond at the Peter Kiewit Lodge Cottonwood Room, Mahoney State Park. For directions see http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/parks/guides/parksearch/showpark.asp?Area_No…. To carpool or attend via speakerphone, reply to Tyler Richard, 402-441-3347 or e-mail tyler dot richard at ppncb dot org.

“FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO” . . . A documentary about the history of GLBT discrimination will be shown at Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M Street, in Lincoln, on Thursday June 12, 2008, at 5:30pm in the lower level Dining Hall. The film features parents of GLBTs, and holds the vision of full inclusion for all people. A sandwich buffet and food sharing begins at 5:00pm. A no litter event, sponsors encourage bring-your-own plate, cup, cloth napkin, etc. For more information contact lizabethjoan at aol dot com or cmoncure48 at gmail dot com.

BENSON ART FESTIVAL . . . Saturday, June 14, 2008, Greens will have a booth at the Benson Art Festival. Stop by and say hello!

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne Thraen has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

LARRICK EXCLUDED FROM FIRST DEBATE . . . Join Greens at Kimball Hall on the UN-L campus Thursday afternoon, June 5, 2008 in a solidarity protest of Nebraska Green Party candidate Steve Larrick’s exclusion from the American Legion sponsored Boys State leadership program candidate’s debate. Steve will be outside Kimball before the debate begins at 1:45pm. Phone 402.464.6338 to objection this exclusion of a legitimate US Senate candidate, and join the protest Thursday.

JOIN LARRICK ON BIKE RIDE FROM LINCOLN TO OMAHA . . . Continuing his bike tour across the state on Nebraska Trails to promote alternative energy and transportation, peace, and a more sustainable world, Steve Larrick will bike from Lincoln to Omaha on Friday, June 6, 2008. To join his ride, e-mail Steve at slarrick1 at msn dot com or phone 402.435.5612.

2008 Nebraska Green Party CONVENTION this Saturday . . . The 2008 Nebraska Convention will be Saturday, June 7, at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street, in the Benson community of Omaha, 9:30am to 3:00pm. National Steering Committee member Marc Sanson from the Illinois Green Party will keynote. Delegates to the National Convention, July 10-13, 2008 at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago, new NGP Executive Commitee members and Representatives will be elected. Click here for the convention agenda. E-mail negreenparty at gmail dot com to pre-register.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . A deceptive California based “Nebraska Civil Rights Initiative” petition seeks to undercut Nebraska’s ability to develop a diverse workforce, and change the Nebraska Constitution. The measure will eliminate scholarships and diminish the University’s ability to attract a diverse student body and faculty. It threatens women-owned businesses, funding for women’s health and domestic violence programs, Nebraskans’ ability to create public policies aimed at fostering fairness, opportunity and inclusion. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against amending the Constitution. DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here  where you also can report the location of petitioners you see gathering signatures. To set up a training for volunteers in your area, make a donation, or add your group to a fast growing list of campaign supporters, call Danielle at 402-432-3394 or email D_Nantkes at yahoo.com.

CITY RAIN GARDEN PROJECT ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS . . . Lincoln residents may apply for grants to cover 80% of the cost for installing rain gardens, depressed areas with native vegetation designed to filter pollutants from driveways, patios, roofs and lawns. Applications are due June 30, 2008, and are available here (keyword: rain garden). For more information call 402.441.7075.

TWO WASTECAP SEMINARS . . . “Understanding Universal Waste–Rules and Handling in Nebraska” will be presented in two public seminars Wednesday, June 4, 2008: In Columbus, 8:30-10:00am, at Nebraska Public Power District, 1414 15th Street, and in Norfolk, noon-1:30pm at the Elkhorn Valley Museum, 515 Queen City Blvd. Contact Carrie Hakenkamp, WasteCap Executive Director, 402.436.2384 or chakenkamp at wastecapne dot org, for details.

2008 WILLA CATHER SPRING CONFERENCE . . . “Cather and Her Contemporaries” is the theme the June 5-7, 2008 Cather Conference in Red Cloud, Nebraska. Events include a Cather Symposium Thursday June 5, Panel Discussions in the restored 1885 Red Cloud Opera House, tours of Cather-related sites, and a showing of “The Road is All,” an NET film of Cather’s biography, Saturday afternoon, June 7. Detailed schedule information here.  Pre-registration is requested. Call toll free: 866.731.7304.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates for 2008 in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne N. Thraen, Jr. has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

LARRICK TOURS NEBRASKA ON BIKE TRAILS . . .Friday, May 23, 2008, US Senate candidate Steve Larrick started a bike tour across the state on Nebraska Bike Trails. Leaving from the Wyoming border, he crossed northern Nebraska from Valentine to Norfolk on the Cowboy Trail to promote alternative energy and transportation, peace, and a more sustainable world. To join the last day of Larrick’s bike tour from Lincoln to Omaha on Saturday May 31, e-mail Steve at slarrick1 at msn dot com or phone 402.435.5612.

CD 1 NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CHAPTER MEETING . . . Tuesday, May 27, 2008 CD 1 Greens will hold the May Chapter meeting at Jones Coffee, 727 South 11th Street, Lincoln, 7:00pm. Representatives to NGP Council from District 1 will be selected at this monthly meeting.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR CONVENTION . . . The Nebraska Green Party Convention will be Saturday, June 7, 2008 at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street, in the Benson community of Omaha, 9:30am to 3:00pm. National Green Party Steering Committee member Marc Sanson from Illinois will keynote. Delegates to the National Convention, July 10-13, 2008 at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago, and new NGP Executive Commitee members will be elected. Click here for the convention agenda. E-mail negreenparty at gmail dot com to register.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . A deceptive California based “Nebraska Civil Rights Initiative” petition seeks to undercut Nebraska’s ability to develop a diverse workforce, and change the Nebraska Constitution. The measure will eliminate scholarships and diminish the University’s ability to attract a diverse student body and faculty. It threatens women-owned businesses, funding for women’s health and domestic violence programs, Nebraskans’ ability to create public policies aimed at fostering fairness, opportunity and inclusion. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against amending the Constitution.  DECLINE TO SIGN this petition, and spread the word to others. Background information here.  Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action.

NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING . . . LD 28 Senator Bill Avery will answer questions and address concerns about legislative issues Tuesday, May 27, 2008, 7:00 to 8:00pm at First-Plymouth Congregational Church Calvert Parlor, 2000 D Street, Lincoln. The Unicameral passed his priority bill to “help finance” a new arena and convention center for Lincoln. This meeting offers the public an opportunity to express opinions on such issues.

MEET WITH CONGRESSMAN JEFF FORTENBERRY . . . Greens and Peace activists are invited to meet with CD 1 US House Representative Jeff Fortenberry at his office in the Cornhusker Office Plaza, 301 South Street, Suite 100, Lincoln, on Tuesday, May 27, 2008, 1:00 to 4:00pm and 6:00 to 8:00pm. Arrange encouraged appointments by phone at 402.438.1598 to discuss issues such as the continued occupation of Iraq and environmental concerns.

MEET WITH SENATOR HAGEL’S STAFF . . . A meeting with Senator Hagel’s staff has been organized by Working Assets cell phone service Credo for Wednesday, May 28, 2008, 12:00 noon at his office in the Federal Building, 15th & O Street, Suite 294, Lincoln. Join constituents urging him to vote yes on the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, HR 2831. The bill would ensure women receive pay equal to what men receive for doing the same job. Sign up for the meeting here, or phone Susy at 402.464.0065.

WEEKLY PEACE VIGILS CONTINUE . . . Join Greens and other Nebraska Coalition for Peace members every Wednesday, 5:00-6:00pm, at the Federal Building, 15th & O Street in Lincoln. Weekly vigils are in solidarity with peace workers everywhere providing a visible presence against the US occupation in Iraq. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672, or mark at weddleton dot com.

OMAHA GREEN DRINKS INTERNATIONAL . . . Anyone studying or working on environmental issues is invited to meet up at Green Drinks Wednesday, May 28, 2008, 5:30pm to close, in the Whole Foods Market Omaha, 10020 Regency Circle. Walk, cycle, bus or carpool to the education room near restaurant seating across from the coffee bar for fun, inspiration and networking with local environmentalists. In Nebraska City, the first Green Drinks will be Monday, June 9, starting 4:30pm at the Lied Lodge & Conference Center.

OMAHA NEBRASKANS FOR PEACE ANNUAL RICE AND BEANS PICNIC . . . Sunday, June 1, 2008, 2:00-4:00pm at Hanscom Park Pavilion, 32nd and Woolworth Avenue, Omaha, the annual NFP fundraiser will feature UN-L Economics Professor Hank Van den Berg speaking on causes of the current economic recession. NFP will provide the rice, drinks and place settings. Bring a bean dish to share. Rsvp nfpOmaha at NebraskansForPeace dot org with “RSVP Rice and Beans – #___ People” in subject line, or phone 402.453.0776.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates filing with the Secretary of State for 2008 elections in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne N. Thraen, Jr. has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

NEBRASKA GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES . . . Green Party candidates filing with the Secretary of State for 2008 elections in Partisan elections are Steven R. Larrick, U.S. Senate; and for Douglas County Board, District 1: Scott Hoffman; District 3: Tom Foster, and Derek Glaser; District 5: Susan Koneck. Laverne N. Thraen, Jr. has filed for the Non-Partisan OPPD Board of Directors Metro District, and Doug Paterson is a write-in candidate for Public Service Commission District 2 in Omaha.

PRIMARY ELECTION . . . Vote Tuesday, May 13, 2008. Sample Lancaster County Ballot here. (link will open as a pdf file). Omaha voters: If you write-in Doug Paterson for Public Service Commission District 2, please remember his name is spelled with one “t.”

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN . . . A deceptive California based “Nebraska Civil Rights Initiative” petition seeks to undercut Nebraska’s ability to develop a diverse workforce and change the Nebraska Constitution. The measure will eliminate scholarships and diminish the University’s ability to attract a diverse student body and faculty. It threatens women-owned businesses and funding for women’s health and domestic violence programs, and hinders Nebraskans’ ability to create public policies aimed at fostering fairness, opportunity and inclusion for all citizens. It will create barriers for people working hard to achieve a better life for themselves and their families. Nebraskans United is taking a stand against amending the Nebraska Constitution. For background information, see http://www.nebraskansunited.org/about.htm. Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR CONVENTION . . . The Nebraska Green Party Convention will be Saturday, June 7, 2008 at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street, in the Benson community of Omaha, 9:30am to 3:00pm. National Green Party Steering Committee member Marc Sanson from Illinois will keynote. Delegates to the National Convention, July 10-13, 2008 at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago, and new NGP Executive Commitee members will be elected at the Omaha Convention. Registration form here. E-mail negreenparty at gmail dot com to register.

EAT AS IF YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT . . . On Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 7:00-8:30pm, Open Harvest is sponsoring a free community conversation about food–what to eat and what not to eat–with Dr. Kevin Coughlin, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 16th & A Streets, in Lincoln. Dr. Coughlin’s Heart and Health Solutions, is an acupuncture only practice based on principles of Integrative nutrition, herbal supplementation and lifestyle management incorporation. Open Harvest will provide samples of recommended nutritious foods.

PRO-CHOICE COALITION OF NEBRASKA MEETING . . . The next Coalition meeting is Thursday, May 15, 2008, 6:30pm at the Planned Parenthood Office, 4610 Dodge Street in Omaha. If you can’t attend, but want to participate in the Pride Weekend or any committee work, please contact Keri Rhienfrank, krheinfrank at gmail dot com.

NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP . . . Chris Helzer of The Nature Conservancy is giving a nature photography workshop on Saturday, May 17, 2008, 10:00am to 4:00pm, at Lincoln’s Pioneers Park Nature Center, Malinovskis Auditorium, 3201 South Coddington Avenue. The free event is designed for serious amateur photographers, but all are welcome. Bring a camera, and examples of your photographs. Contact Jill Wells in Omaha, 402.342.0282 or jwells at tnc dot org, to register or for more information.

BODY OF WAR . . . A new Phil Donahue/Ellen Spiro documentary, Body of War, opens at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, 313 North 13th Street, Lincoln, on Friday, May 16, 2008. Showing through Thursday, May 22, the film takes a microcosmic look at the war and its devastation by focusing on a single casualty, Thomas Young, 25, paralyzed by a bullet to his spine after serving in Iraq for less than a week. Check www.TheRoss.org, your newspaper, or call the MRRMAC film information line, 402.472.5353, for time schedules.

TALK & TOUR at UNMC in OMAHA . . . Waste reduction makes good business sense. It can save organizations money through reduced purchasing and waste disposal costs. WasteWise and WasteCap Nebraska provide free technical assistance to help develop, implement, and measure business waste reduction activities. Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at 9:30am, they will sponsor at tour of the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. UNMC has a strong reduce, reuse and recycle program, recycling over 16.5 million pounds of fiber, since April of 1993. To attend the free event, RSVP WasteCap Nebraska at 402.434.7376 by Friday, May 16th.