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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

FULL MOON RAMBLE . . . Register by Wednesday, January 27, 2010 for a walk in the moonlight Saturday, January 30th at Pioneer’s Park Nature Center, located on the West side of Pioneers Park, South Coddington Avenue and West Van Dorn Street, Lincoln. There is a small fee for the nature walk, hot cocoa, moon pies and story telling. Phone 441.7895 with questions, and to rsvp.

EYES ON THE PRIZE . . . The Peace and Justice Team of First-Plymouth Church, D Street, is showing the Eyes on the Prize video Series every Wednesday through February 10, 2010, 6:15 to 7:30pm, in Courtyard Lounge at the church. Moderated by Elliott School Counselor Jeanne Johnson, this series documents the history of the civil rights movement. The January 27 segment is “No Easy Walk 61-63.” Thomas Christie, Multicultural Administrator for Lincoln Public Schools, will be a special guest speaker. For more information, phone 436.1136.

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.

EAGLE VIEWING IN LEXINGTON . . . Saturday, January 30, 2010, Wichiska Audubon will host an eagle viewing field trip to the Johnson No. 2 hydroplant in Lexington, Nebraska. Meet at McDonald’s, 3330 South 10th Street, Lincoln, at 6:45am for 7:00am carpool departure. Bring binoculars and a sack lunch. Dress for the weather, including warm footwear. Call Bob Boyce, 402.770.6865, or e-mail bobboyce66 [at] gmail [dot] com with questions or to rsvp.

PAKISTAN AND AFGHANISTAN LECTURE SERIES . . . This weekly Lecture Series continues Sunday January 31, 2010, 7:00pm, at the Unitarian Church, 6300 A Street in Lincoln. Dean Tom Gouttierre, Director of the Center for Afghanistan Studies at UN-O, will discuss how the changing social, political, religious, and military forces sweeping through both Afghanistan and Pakistan have shaped education and educators in those nations. For more information, e-mail Unitarian [at] inebraska [dot] com or phone 483.2213.

ONE BOOK–ONE LINCOLN . . . Only titles nominated by the Lincoln community will be considered for this year’s One Book–One Lincoln reading program. After five finalists are announced, Lincoln readers will be invited to vote on which book the City will read together as a community. Click here  to nominate a title by the February 2nd deadline.

LINCOLN BIKE CORRAL NEEDS USERS . . . Lincoln’s bike corral on the main floor of the 12th Street side of Center Park Garage at 12th & N is not being used much by commuters–even in good weather. The fully enclosed corral gives people an alternative to lugging bicycles into office buildings, and it keeps bikes out of bad weather. For information about monthly permits call 402.441.6472 or visit the parking office at 850 Q Street.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

JANUARY HUNGRY CLUB . . . Wednesday, January 27, 2010, at noon, Omaha School of Music Founder and Artistic Director, Michael Dryver, will discuss new research associated with the positive impact of music and performing arts on academic outcomes, as well as findings associated with music and medicine. The monthly Hungry Club Luncheon is at Mama’s Kitchen, 45th & Bedford, in Omaha. Order lunch from Big Mama’s soul food menu and enjoy the free event. For more information, phone Preston Love Jr. at 812.3324.

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 . . . Green Drinks, the international self-organising network currently meeting in 564 cities worldwide, meets in Omaha from 5:30pm until close, Wednesday, January 27, 2010, at Whole Foods Market, 10020 Regency Circle, in the education room across from coffee bar. Everyone interested in, working on, or studying environmental issues is invited to attend and get involved with the green movement.

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 One Bright Shining Moment. Watch the trailer here.  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.

BUILDING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES . . . The January MoValley Sierra Club Program will be Thursday, January 28, 2010, 7:00pm, at First United Methodist Church, 69th & Cass Streets. Kristi Wamstad-Evans, Omaha’s Sustainability Coordinator, Daniel Lawse, Coordinator of Sustainable Practices at Metro Community College, and Ken Winston, Nebraska Sierra Club’s lobbyist, will speak about how to create more energy efficiency and sustainability at the
campus, city, and state level. The program is free and open to the public. For more information contact Mary at mary [at] green [at] nebraska [dot] sierraclub [dot] org or phone 402.556.1830. (Enter at the education wing north door.)

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

CENTRAL NEBRASKA PEACE WORKERS . . . The CNPW monthly Gathering for Peace and Justice is Wednesday, January 27, 2010. Meet at 5:00pm, State Street and Webb Road, in Grand Island. Vigil for the hour, or stop by and join the gathering at any time between 5:00 and 6:00pm.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, 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.

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

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.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. EVENTS . . . Martin Luther King Jr. events at UN-L begin Monday, January 18, 2010 with a Youth Rally at 9:00am followed by a march from City campus Student Union through downtown Lincoln that begins at 10:00am, concluding at the Warner Chamber of the Nebraska Legislature in the State Capitol Building with a Call to Action program honoring the mission and vision of Rev. Dr. King. Click here for a calendar of other King Week activities at UN-L.

GREEN TEAM ROUNDTABLE . . . The WasteCap Nebraska Lincoln GTR is Wednesday, January 20, 2010, 11:30am-1:00pm. Hofeling Enterprises is hosting at their Lincoln facility, 2200 South Folsom Court. There will be time for networking, a short educational segment on “What it Means to be Green: Operating a Sustainable Business using the Easy and Profitable Techniques of Pollution Prevention,” followed by a presentation and facility tour. Hofeling specializes in residential tree service, land clearing and wood waste recycling using new, innovative markets for wood waste products. Lunch is provided. Please RSVP by calling WasteCap, 402.436.2383, or e-mail rbeckman [at] wastecapne [dot] org by noon, Monday, January 18, 2010.

CELEBRATE PRAIRIE PLAINS RESOURCE INSTITUTE . . . Reserve tickets by Tuesday, January 19, for the first  Prairie Plains Resource Institute Fundraising Banquet. The event will be at UN-L East Campus Union beginning at 5:00pm, Saturday, January 23, 2010, celebrating the Institute’s 30 year anniversary. The meal will feature all Nebraska foods from The Grain Place, there will be a slide presentation by National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson, and an auction. Tickets can be purchased by e-mailing contactppri [at] hamilton [dot] net or by calling 402.694.5535.

EYES ON THE PRIZE . . . The Peace and Justice Team of First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street, is showing the Eyes on the Prize video Series every Wednesday through February 10, 2010, 6:15 to 7:30pm, in Courtyard Lounge at the church. Moderated by Elliott School Counselor Jeanne Johnson, this series documents the history of the civil rights movement. The January 20, 2009 segment is “Ain’t Scared of Your Jails 60-61.” For more information, phone 436.1136.

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.

LUNCH AND LEARN SUSTAINABILITY . . . Thursday, January 21, 2010, Milo Mumgaard, Senior Policy Aide to the Mayor, will speak on “Sustainability Lincoln: Insuring a Growing, Dynamic City, Today and Tomorrow” at the noon League of Women Voters monthly Lunch and Learn. The luncheon is on the 20th Floor of the US Bank Building, 13th & M Streets, in Lincoln. Make reservations by phone at 475.1411, or e-mail lwv-ne [at] inebraska [dot] com.

LOCAL SCIENCE CAFE . . . Thursday, January 21, 2010, 6:30 to 7:30pm, UN-L Political Science professor John Hibbing will lead a Science Cafe addressing the question “Are Liberals and Conservatives Physiologically Different?” at red9, 9th and M Streets in Lincoln. Click here for a 4:55 minute video of Hibbing and Meadowlark Coffee’s Adam Hintz on the Daily Show. Click here for more information on Science Cafes.

MIDDLE EASTERN CULTURE NIGHT . . . The Lincoln High School Middle Eastern Club will host a Culture Night on Saturday, January 23, 2010, 6:00pm, in the LHS Cafeteria, 2229 J Street. Learn cultural awareness, support local students, enjoy great food, music, and fun at this event. Tickets are $10 at the door. Free admission for kids under 5.

PAKISTAN AND AFGHANISTAN LECTURE SERIES . . . Sunday, January 24, 2010, 7:00pm, Professor Jack Shroder, Assistant Dean of International Studies at UN-O, will discuss how limited natural resources of the region contribute to the cultural conflicts that in part characterize both Afghanistan and Pakistan. The lecture will be at the Unitarian Church,  6300 A Street, in Lincoln. For more information, e-mail Unitarian [at] inebraska [dot] com or phone 483.2213.

LINCOLN BIKE CORRAL NEEDS USERS . . . Lincoln’s bike corral on the main floor of the 12th Street side of Center Park Garage at 12th & N is not being used much by commuters–even in good weather. The fully enclosed corral gives people an alternative to lugging bicycles into office buildings, and it keeps bikes out of bad weather. For information about monthly permits call 402.441.6472 or visit the parking office at 850 Q Street.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

OMAHA MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. EVENT . . . Monday, January 18, 2010, 7:00pm, the City of Omaha will present the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration (pdf) at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas Street. Author/Educator/Historian Mary Frances Berry will be the keynote speaker, and there will be performances by the Northwest High School Concert Choir, Chad Stoner Group, Girls Inc. Step Dance Team, and the Franklin Thompson Family. The free Celebration is open to the public.

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 COMMUNITY FORUM . . . Wednesday, January 20, 2010, 6:00-7:30pm, there will be a Lead Safe Omaha Coalition Forum at Omaha Public Schools Teachers Administrative Center (TAC Bldg), 3215 Cuming Street, Room 5062. Learn how the local community can become part of the solution to reducing the lead blood levels in children, and how community organizations and neighborhood associations can work together educating about the effects of lead poisoning, in dialog with representatives of the US Environmental Protection Agency, US Housing and Urban Development, New Community Development Corporation, the City of Omaha Planning Department, and the Omaha Human Rights/Contract-Compliance Department. Employment and job opportunities in the remediation of lead contamination at the Omaha Lead Site will also be discussed. E-mail cjwestsuccess [at] aol [dot] com or phone Toni at 402.451.3730 with questions and to rsvp.

OMAHA PUBLIC MEETING ON RESOURCE CONSERVATION . . . Wednesday, January 20, 2010, there will be a public meeting on conservation at the Scott Conference Center, 6450 Pine Street, beginning at 6:30pm. The meeting will be hosted by Environment Omaha, a new policy development initiative creating an Environmental Element for the city’s master plan addressing the natural environment, urban form and transportation, building construction, resource conservation and community health. The guest speaker will be Amy Malick, Midwest Regional Director for ICLEI-Local Government for Sustainability.

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 Kansas vs. Darwin. View the trailer here.  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.

POLITICAL AWARENESS WORKSHOP . . . A training workshop on “Finding Our Voices as Progressives” will take place at 4924 Chicago in Omaha on Saturday, January 23, 2010, 1:00pm to 3:00pm. From the initial announcement: “If you are tired of standing by while conservatives relentlessly pound their message; if you would like to take direct action to promote a positive vision; or if you are looking for non-violent ways to address the madness that affects some of our relatives, our neighbors and our co-workers, this workshop may be for you.” Participants will practice framing an issue using the method of George Lakoff, author of Don’t Think of an Elephant.  Refreshments will be provided.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

CENTRAL NEBRASKA PEACE WORKERS . . .  The next meeting of Central Nebraska Peace Workers, a Chapter of Nebraskans For Peace, is Sunday, January 24, 2010, 3:00pm, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 511 North Elm Street, Grand Island. (Use the east basement door.)  Topics for discussion include the Supreme Court decision allowing expanded political donations by corporations; Afghanistan; Climate change; Health reform; and Haiti.  Everyone is welcome.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, 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.

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

CALL YOUR SENATORS . . . The US is the world’s largest per capita emitter of greenhouse gases. Passing bold legislation here at home will have an effect on climate change and dramatically alter the debate internationally. 1Sky has designated Tuesday, January 12, 2010 national call-in day to let your senators know we won’t stand by idly while they sacrifice our future to political expediency and wealthy lobbyists. Let them know that without their support for a bold climate bill they shouldn’t be expecting our support in future elections. Sign-up to make calls here.  Or just phone Nebraska senators on Tuesday at the following numbers. Senator Mike Johanns: 202.224.4224; Lincoln: 476.1400; Omaha: 758.8981. Senator Ben Nelson: 202.224.6551; Lincoln: 441.4600; Omaha: 391.3411.

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.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

GREENSBURG, KANSAS WEBINAR . . . Tuesday, January 12, 2010, from 11:00am to 12:30pm CST, the US Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Program is offering a free Webinar on “Greensburg, Kansas: “Lessons Learned and Steps Forward.” Greensburg is rebuilding as a model community after a massive tornado in May, 2007. The town is incorporating ambitious renewable energy and energy efficiency strategies to realize its vision of becoming an affordable sustainable community. Click here to WebRsvp in advance. Learn more about the Webinar here.

EARTH DAY 2010 . . . The Cleaner Greener Lincoln Initiative wants to start planning Earth Day 2010 now. There will be an initial meeting in the Mayor’s conference room, 555 South 10th Street, Tuesday January 12, 2010, at 5:30pm. E-mail Emily, emilymckeone [at] yahoo [dot] com if you can attend this brainstorming session. 2010 is the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day. Be involved with creating Lincoln’s celebration from the beginning.

EYES ON THE PRIZE . . . The Peace and Justice Team of First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street, is showing the Eyes on the Prize video Series every Wednesday through February 10, 2010, 6:15 to 7:30pm, at the church in Courtyard Lounge. Moderated by Elliott School Counselor Jeanne Johnson, this series documents the history of the civil rights movement. The January 13 segment is “Fighting Back 1957-62.” For more information, phone 436.1136.

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.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHS . . . Thursday, January 14, 2010, 7:00pm, Josef Kren, professor of physiology at BryanLGH Medical Center College of Health Sciences, will speak at the monthly meeting of Wachiska Audubon.  He will share photographs that capture the vanishing natural world of his native Czech Republic, and the Midwest, including Nebraska Sandhills, Rocky Mountain National Park and Spring Creek Prairie near Denton. Meet in Room 3 of the Dick Administration Building, Union College, 3800 South 48th Street, Lincoln. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 402.486.4846.

MARCH FOR PALESTINE – The Palestine Solidarity Committee at UN-L will have its annual “Walk of the Dead” to honor the lives of Palestinians who have died in the ongoing struggle for human rights and independence. Meet at the City Campus Union south entrance, 15th & R Street, 1:30pm on Saturday, January 16, 2010. The march will begin at 2:00pm and proceed silently through downtown Lincoln. Participants are asked to dress in black and wear white masks (supplied or bring your own). The march will conclude back at the Union for refreshments and letter writing to Congress. (PSC does not take an official position on the two state solution.)

LINCOLN BIKE CORRAL NEEDS USERS . . . Lincoln’s bike corral on the main floor of the 12th Street side of Center Park Garage at 12th & N is not being used much by commuters–even in good weather. The fully enclosed corral gives people an alternative to lugging bicycles into office buildings, and it keeps bikes out of bad weather. For information about monthly permits call 402.441.6472 or visit the parking office at 850 Q Street.

LUNCH AND LEARN SUSTAINABILITY . . . Make reservations before noon, January 18th, for the January 21, 2010 League of Women Voters Lunch and Learn featuring Milo Mumgaard, Senior Policy Aide to the Mayor, speaking on “Sustainability Lincoln: Insuring a Growing, Dynamic City, Today and Tomorrow.” The noon luncheon is on the 20th Floor of the US Bank Building, 13th & M Streets. Make reservations by phone at 475.1411, or e-mail lwv-ne [at] inebraska [dot] com.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

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 Street Fight, a compelling David vs. Goliath epic. 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.

SIERRA DAY HIKE AND OVERNIGHT CAR CAMP . . . Saturday, January 16, 2010, there will be a 5+ mile day hike and optional overnight car camp at Waubonsie State Park.  Hikers will meet at 1:30pm in the office parking lot for a 2½ hour moderate to difficult hike. For details about overnight plans, directions, carpooling, other information, and to rsvp, e-mail James Phernetton, jamesphernetton [at] mac [dot] com or phone 402.319.2322.

FONTENELLE FOREST PERIMETER HIKE . . . Sunday, Januruary 17, 2010, Volunteer Naturalist Bob Goetschkes will lead a fast moving hike of Fontenelle Forest’s perimeter trails, leaving at 11:00am from the Nature Center, 1111 North Bellevue Blvd., Bellevue, returning between 5:00 and 6:00pm. For more information, and to rsvp, phone 402.614.4788, or e-mail bobbygoetschkes [at] hotmail [dot] com.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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.

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

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.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

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.

EYES ON THE PRIZE . . . The Peace and Justice Team of First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street, is showing the Eyes on the Prize video Series every Wednesday, January 6 through February 10, 2010, 6:15 to 7:30pm, in the Courtyard Lounge at the church. Moderated by Elliott School Counselor Jeanne Johnson, this series documents the history of the civil rights movement. The January 6, 2009 segment is “Awakenings 1954-56.” For more information, phone 436.1136.

VIDEO CONFERENCE ON JOBS . . . There will be a state-wide Video Forum on Jobs from 10:00am to noon, Friday, January 8, 2010, to share ideas with USDA Rural Development on how to create and foster economic development in rural communities. The Lincoln video conference site will be NET, 1800 North 33rd Street, with facilitators Roger Meeks and Vicki Schurman. RSVP at 402.437.5563 or email vicki [dot] schurman [at] ne [dot] usda [dot] gov. You may also post comments on the USDA Jobs Blog here.  See other state-wide locations below.

RECYCLE HOLIDAY TREES . . . For the 23rd year, The City of Lincoln will accept holiday trees for recycling at seven sites through Sunday, January 10, 2010. Trees will be chipped, and the chipped material will be available free to Lincoln residents in mid-January. Click here for collection sites. For questions about Lincoln’s recycling programs call 402.441.8215.

LINCOLN BIKE CORRAL NEEDS USERS . . . Lincoln’s bike corral on the main floor of the 12th Street side of Center Park Garage at 12th & N is not being used much by commuters–even in good weather. The fully enclosed corral gives people an alternative to lugging bicycles into office buildings, and it keeps bikes out of bad weather. For information about monthly permits call 402.441.6472 or visit the parking office at 850 Q Street.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

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 Palestine Blues.  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.

VIDEO CONFERENCE ON JOBS . . . The Omaha location for a state-wide Video Forum on Jobs, 10:00am to noon, Friday, January 8, 2010, will be the Omaha State Office Building, 1313 Farnam, Rm. 207, with facilitators Cliff Mosteller and Jenny Nelson. RSVP at 402.437.5563 or email vicki [dot] schurman [at] ne [dot] usda [dot] gov. You may also post comments on the USDA Jobs Blog here.  See District 3 locations below.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

VIDEO CONFERENCE ON JOBS . . . District 3 Video Conference sites for the Friday, January 8, 2010 Forum on Jobs, 10:00am to noon, are as follows. Scottsbluff: Panhandle Research & Extension Center, 4502 Avenue I, with facilitators Ingrid Battershell and Marla Marks; North Platte: Mid-Plains Community College, McDonald Belton Campus, Rm. 141, with facilitators Natalie Furrow and Tom Gorman; McCook: Mid-Plains Community College, 1205 East 3rd Street, McMillen Hall, Rm. 208, with facilitator Lory Cappel; Kearney: Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue, with facilitators Paul Bartlett and Brenda Darnell; Ainsworth: Ainsworth Public Library, 5th & Main, with facilitator Mary Gambill; Norfolk: Northeast Community College, Lifelong Learning Center, 801 East Benjamin Avenue, with facilitators Dale Wemhoff and Joe Ferguson. RSVP to Vicki Schurman at 402.437.5563 or email vicki [dot] schurman [at] ne [dot] usda [dot] gov. You may also post comments on the USDA Jobs Blog here.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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.

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

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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

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.

RECYCLE HOLIDAY TREES . . . For the 23rd year, The City of Lincoln will accept holiday trees for recycling at seven sites through January 10, 2010. Trees will be chipped, and the chipped material will be available free to Lincoln residents in mid-January. Click here for collection sites. For questions about Lincoln’s recycling programs call 402.441.8215.

LINCOLN BIKE CORRAL NEEDS USERS . . . Lincoln’s bike corral on the main floor of the 12th Street side of Center Park Garage at 12th & N is not being used much by commuters–even in good weather. The fully enclosed corral gives people an alternative to lugging bicycles into office buildings, and it keeps bikes out of bad weather. For information about monthly permits call 402.441.6472 or visit the parking office at 850 Q Street.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

CELEBRATE KWANZAA . . . Monday December 28, 2009, 6:00pm to 9:00pm, there will be a Kwanzaa celebration at the Washington Library, 2868 Ames Avenue, in Omaha. There will be a candle lighting ceremony, full soul food buffet, and Kwanzaa activities for the children. Learn about the principles of Kwanzaa, and share this tradition with the next generation. For more information phone Willie Williams, 402.612.8936.

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 A Class Apart.  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.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

EAGLE VIEWING NEAR LEXINGTON . . . Eagle-viewing facilities will be open each weekend from December 29, 2009 through February 3, 2010. Visitors can watch eagles and other wildlife that feed on fish in the open water, particularly when rivers and lakes are covered with ice. The J-2 hydroplant south of Lexington near the intersection of county roads 749 and 750 will be open each Saturday and Sunday from 8:00am to 2:00pm. The Kingsley facility on the shore of Lake Ogallala just below Kingsley Dam will be open from 8:00am to 4:00pm, MST. The best viewing times at both sites are normally earlier in the day. A limited number of spotting scopes and binoculars will be available at both facilities, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own equipment. For more information about eagle viewing opportunities click here.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! E Glecklichs Nej Johr! Goyosa Añada Benién! Nava Varsha Aasamsakal! Bon An Gnôf! Blian Nua Faoi Mhaise Duit! Kung Ho Hsin Hsi! Naway Kaal De Umbarak Shaa! Zbozhowne Nowe Leto! Es Guets Neus Johr! Asuggas Asa’di! Yvää Uutta Vootta! Ni Ti Yuun! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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

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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

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.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

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 American Ruling Class.  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.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

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

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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

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.

SHOPPING LOCAL . . . “Growing, Buying, Using Local” will be presented by Ingrid Kirst, executive director of Community CROPS (Combining Resources, Opportunism and People for Sustainability) Thursday, December 17, 2009, at this month’s League of Women Voters Lunch and Learn. The noon luncheon on the 20th floor of the US Bank Building, 13th & M Streets, Lincoln, is open to the public. For reservations, e-mail lwv-ne [at] inebraska [dot] com, or phone 475.1411.

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE . . . Clock Tower Merchants at 70th & A Street are working with People’s City Mission  to provide 2,000 holiday meals for Lincoln people in need. Between now and December 15, shoppers are asked to drop off non-perishable items or monetary donations at any Clock Tower store. All donations will be matched by the merchants.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

PRAIRIE WIND . . . “Prairie Wind: Nebraska’s Wind Energy Harvest,” will be shown Tuesday, December 15, 2009, 7:00pm, at UN-O Campus CPACS Auditorium (southeast of the Bell Tower), followed by a panel discussion featuring the documentary’s producer, Perry Stoner, State Senator Ken Haar, and others. Admission is free. For More Information, contact Scott Williams, scott [dot] williams [at] climateprotect [dot] org.

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.

SUSTAINABLE NETWORKING EVENT . . . There will be a sustainable networking event with organic wine tasting at The Pizza Shoppe Collective, 6056 Maple Street, Omaha, on Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 6:00 to 8:00pm. Collaborating small businesses and sustainable organizations will provide breakout sessions offering assistance with marketing, planning, financing/funding and solutions for common obstacles to success in the community. There will be an opportunity for questions with special guest speaker Kristi Wamstad-Evans, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Omaha. For more information, e-mail Amy Ryan, amy [at] pscollective [dot] com or phone 402.884.8680.

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 Very Young Girls.  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.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

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

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA MCKINNEY . . . A peace demonstration is being organized for December 12, 2009 in Washington, DC. The Emergency Anti-Escalation Rally, also known as the End US Wars Rally, is scheduled for 11:00am, Lafayette Park, at the White House. I wholly endorse this rally and encourage all who can to participate in Washington, DC or to help a local peace organization committed to ending U.S. wars on that date. For more information about the Washington, DC December 12th demonstration, please visit www.endUSwars.org.

HELP NEBRASKA GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Now, 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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils continue at the Federal Building, 15th and O Streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. This peace group has demonstrated for almost a decade. Join them now, in solidarity with opposition to escalation in Afghanistan. Click here for CODE PINK analysis and response to the president’s expanded war. The White House does not have the final say under the Constitution, Congress does. The Congress needs to hear from us now – tell your Senators and Representatives you oppose the war and want to see all troops brought home here.  They hold the funding key. Write letters to the editor to your local paper and be present at local peace vigils. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

WACHISKA HOLIDAY PARTY . . . The Wachiska Audubon Annual Holiday Pot-luck will be Thursday, December 10, 2009, starting 6:15pm, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane, Lincoln. Scott Michael will present “Grizzly Bear Behavior-Up Clost and Personal” based on personal experiences with the bears of Katmai National Park in Alaska. Everyone is invited to bring a dish to share, and table service. Call Wachiska at 402.486.4846 for more information.

PRO-CHOICE COALITION MEETING . . . ACLU Nebraska will host the December meeting of the Pro-Choice Coalition on Thursday, December 10, 2009, 6:30pm, at the Terminal Building, lower level conference room, 941 O Street, Lincoln. The topic of discussion will be the 2010 legislative session. All members and interested parties are invited to attend. Car pool from Omaha will leave Rockbrook at 5:00pm. For more information, phone Laurel at 402.540.6742.

WHITECLAY PUBLIC HEARING . . . There will be another public hearing before the Nebraska Legislature on alcohol-related problems at Whiteclay, Nebraska, Friday, December 11, 2009, 2:30pm, in room 1524 at the State Capitol. Four stores sell about 4 million cans of beer annually in the town of 14 people. Testimony from northwest Nebraska will be via video link from Chadron State College.

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE . . . Clock Tower Merchants at 70th & A Street are working with People’s City Mission to provide 2,000 holiday meals for Lincoln people in need. Between now and December 15, shoppers are asked to drop off non-perishable items or monetary donations at any Clock Tower store. All donations will be matched by the merchants.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

COMMUNITY FORUM WITH WENDELL POTTER . . . “Blowing the Whistle on Big Insurance: An Insiders Look into Insurance Denials” with Wendell Potter, will be Tuesday, December 8, 2009, 6:00 to 8:00pm, at Creighton Law School, 24th and Cass Street, Omaha. Potter will lead a panel discussing why he became a whistle-blower, and how he has seen insurance companies place profits over people, standing in the way of reform. For more information, e-mail christa [dot] yoakum [at] changethatworks [dot] net.

GREEN TEAM ROUNDTABLE . . . Wednesday, December 9, 2009, 11:30am-1:00pm, LifeSpan Recycling is hosting the WasteCap Nebraska Omaha Green Team Roundtable, 11:30am-1:00pm, at 8616 G Street. The Roundtable will begin with open networking, a short environmental segment from UNL Engineering College’s P3 program on “What it Means to be Green: Operating a Sustainable Business using the Easy and Profitable Techniques of Pollution Prevention”, followed by a presentation and facility tour by LifeSpan, a certified computer and electronics recycler. Lunch will be provided by LifeSpan, so please rsvp by calling WasteCap, 402.436.2383, or e-mail Rozz Beckman, rbeckman [at] wastecapne[dot] org.

OMAHA PEACE ACTIVISTS GO TO COURT . . . The Omaha peace activists arrested November 4th during the annual protest and “Die-In” at StratCom’s Space Weapons Bazaar will appear at Douglas County Court House, 1701 Farnam (SW corner, 17th & Farnam), 1:30pm, Wednesday, December 9, 2009. Omaha’s Icon of Peace, 91-year old Peg Gallagher, will be among them. Click here, and here for news reports of her arrest. For more information, E-mail Jerry Ebner, cwomaha [at] gmail [dot] com or phone 402.502.5887.

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 Earthlings.  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.

SIERRA DAY HIKE AT NEALE WOODS . . . Saturday, December 12th, 1:00pm, hikers will meet at Neale Woods, 14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, for a 2½ hour hike of moderate to difficult trails.For directions, carpool information, more details, and to rsvp, e-mail James Phernetton, jamesphernetton [at] mac [dot] com or phone 402.319.2322.

BUILDING A NET ZERO NATION . . . There will be a free showing of “Kilowatt Ours” Sunday, December 13, 2009, at Second Unitarian Church of Omaha, 3012 South 119th Street. The 6:30pm showing will be followed by discussion. The event starts at 6:00pm with a put-luck supper.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

CENTRAL NEBRASKA PEACE WORKERS VIGIL . . . The CNPW peaceful gathering is Wednesday December 9, 2009, 5:00 to 6:00pm, at State Street and Webb Road in Grand Island. All are welcome.

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

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

HELP GREENS WITH GOODSEARCH . . . Now, 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. To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

LINCOLN PEACE VIGILS . . . Lincoln peace vigils are held at the Federal Building, 15th and O Streets, every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00pm. Special Thanksgiving thanks to all steadfast vigilers, new vigilers, and drivers who honk for peace during the weekly hour of peace activism. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672 or e-mail mark [at] weddleton [dot] com for more information.

THANKSGIVING: Thursday, November 26, 2009 . . . “Consider pausing this Thanksgiving, which for many in the U.S. is a major feast, to reflect on the 10 children who die of hunger every minute, and how your elected officials are spending hundreds of billions in public funds on war.”  –From “Hungering for a True Thanksgiving” by Amy Goodman, host of Democracy Now!, a daily international TV/radio news hour airing on more than 800 stations in North America.

RESERVATIONS DEADLINE FOR FREEDOM BREAKFAST . . . Reservations for the 17th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. “Freedom Breakfast” are due Monday, November 30, 2009. This year’s breakfast will be Friday, January 15, 2009, 7:30 to 8:30am, at Embassy Suites Hotel, 1040 P Street, Lincoln. The keynote speaker is Rev. Jessie Myles. For more information, and to rsvp, phone Nancy Knapp, 472.1663.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

DEMOCRACY NOW! ACTION . . . Help bring Democracy Now! to UNO-TV. People in Omaha need access to independent media. Most print, radio, and television media is now controlled by less than six major corporations. Learn about how Cox has violated its contract with the City of Omaha here.  Encourage bringing Democracy Now! to Omaha by writing Robert A. Franklin, PhD., Director, Media Operations, KVNO-FM/UNO-Television, University of Nebraska-Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska 68182.

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.

THANKSGIVING EVE GREEN DRINKS . . . Omaha Green Drinks will meet Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at Whole Foods Regency, 10020 Regency Circle, in the education room across from the coffee bar, 5:30pm ’til close. Green Drinks is now organized in 641 cities worldwide. All are welcome to join the conversation at Omaha’s informal Green Drinks meet-up.

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 Manufactured Landscapes. 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.

HIKE STONE STATE PARK . . . Sunday, November 29,2009, 9:00am, a Sierra Club outing open to all outdoor enthusiasts will leave from Wolner’s Grocery in Aksarben Village, 72nd and Center, Omaha, for a 6-8 mile Day Hike around Mt. Lucia at Stone State Park in Woodbury County Iowa, just north of Sioux City off I-29. For directions, carpool arrangements, more information, and to rsvp, e-mail Bob Goetschkes, bobbygoetschkes [at] hotmail [dot] com or phone 402.614.4788.

DOROTHY DAY DOCUMENTARY . . . Dorothy Day’s life, faith, and leagacy will be remembered and celebrated with a special showing of “Don’t Call me a Saint” on Sunday November 29, 2009, 6:30pm at the Omaha Catholic Worker, 1104 North 24th Street. Co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, Day would have been 112 years old this year. For more information about her gospel of nonviolence and this free, open event, phone 402.502.5887, or e-mail omahacw [at] gmail [dot] com.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

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

SOMETHING NEW . . . Now, 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.  To make GoodSearch your homepage, click here.  THANK YOU for supporting Nebraska Greens.

Lincoln area: Congressional District 1

IF YOU OPPOSE THE DEATH PENALTY . . . Nebraska does not need a new method of killing people. The last opportunity for the public to comment on proposed regulations for lethal injection will be Monday, November 16, 2009. Anyone may attend and comment on the Department of Corrections’ announced rules to continue state killings at this hearing, beginning at 9:00am, State Office Building, 501 South 14th Street, Lincoln (lower level conference room F). Read the proposed regulations here.  Read an analysis of the proposed regulations here. (pdf)  For more information, click here.

HELP HAITIAN ORPHANS . . . Tuesday, November 17, 2009, 6:30pm, there will be a One Cause Lincoln benefit to help a new orphanage for 250 children in Gonaives, Haiti. “The Stars of the Night” will be at The Lodge at Wilderness Ridge, 1800 Wilderness Woods Place. For more information, and to make reservations, phone 540.0073, or e-mail ONEcauselincoln [at] yahoo [dot] com.

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.

LWV LUNCH AND LEARN . . . The Lincoln-Lancaster County League of Women Voters will present Jim Otto, president of Nebraska Retail Federation, at the Thursday, November 19, 2009 12:00 noon Lunch and Learn event. The monthly luncheon series, followed by questions and answers, is at the 20th floor of US Bank, 13th & M Streets in Lincoln. For more information, and to rsvp, e-mail lwv-ne [at] inebraska.com or phone 475.1411.

CHANGING POLICY . . . Drug policy shift advocates, doctors, lawyers, activists, treatment providers, law enforcement, students, educators and formerly incarcerated people converged on Albuquerque November 12 through 14, 2009, for the biennial International Drug Policy Reform Conference to discuss change from a policy of criminalization to a public health model. More people than ever now understand the need for this shift. Following Pharmacy Board public hearings, the Iowa Senate will vote on Pro-cannabis bills that would make it the 15th state allowing some use of marijuana for medical purposes–joining California, Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Maine, Nevada, Colorado, Hawaii, Vermont, Montana, Rhode Island, New Mexico, Maryland and Michigan. Cannabis Kingdom will meet Thursday, November 19, 2009, 4:20pm, at Kinetic Brew, a coffeehouse inside the Bourbon Theater, 1415 O Street, Lincoln. Other groups working locally include SAFERCHOICE.org, askLEAP.org, makepotlegal555.org, and NormlNebraska.  “Reefer Madness! The Musical” is playing at the Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 South 56 Street, Thursday, through Saturday, November 19-21, 7:30pm; and at 2:00pm Sunday, November 22, 2009. For more information about decriminalization activism in the area, phone Pam at 402.742.5551.

STEM CELL RESEARCH DECISION . . . The University of Nebraska Board of Regents will meet Friday, November 20, 2009, 10:00am, at Varner Hall, 3835 Holdrege, Lincoln. Regents are expected to decide whether NU scientists can pursue expanded embryonic stem cell research at the open meeting that will include time for public comments. Click here for a Lincoln Journal Star article indicating four pro-life regents have co-authored a resolution that would limit embryonic stem cell research at the NU Medical Center. Click here for a LJS Local View by Sanford Goodman, president of the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures, “Stem cell research ban would hurt university,” published November 15, 2009.

ECOSTORES RESOURCE CONSERVATION WORKSHOP . . . EcoStores Nebraska is offering a cutting-edge workshop on making buildings more economical and ecological. Auditing Buildings for Energy Efficiency will be Friday, November 20, 2009, 1:00pm – 4:00pm. It is designed to begin training a pool of neighborhood-based energy auditors to identify resource conservation measures that provide the greatest economic and environmental benefits. Seating is limited. Print and return the registration form here (pdf) to EcoStores Nebraska, 530 West P Street, Lincoln, NE 68528 or email ecostoresne@windstream.net. The workshop will be held at Lancaster County Cooperative Extension, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln.

Omaha area: Congressional District 2

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 Future of Food, 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.

BRIDGING COMMUNITIES & CORRECTIONS VI . . . There will be a discussion on the barriers facing citizens returning to the community at Metropolitan Community College, 30th & Fort, Building 10, Room 136, Thursday, November 19, 2009, 6:00pm to 8:30pm. Employment, housing and other issues, will be the focus of a panel including Mike Friend, Director, Office of Violence Prevention. This free event, open to the public, is sponsored by Black Men United Families & Friends of Inmates. For more information, and to rsvp, e-mail Willie Hamilton, willzzway2 [at] yahoo [dot] com or phone 402.707.3115.

SIERRA ANNUAL BANQUET AND AUCTION . . . State Senator Ken Haar will be keynote speaker for the Nebraska Chapter of the Sierra Club Annual Banquet, Saturday, November 21, 2009, at Spaghetti Works Restaurant, 84th Street & Park Drive, Omaha. Social Hour and Silent Auction begin at 6:00pm. Dinner, awards, and program begin at 7:00pm. For more information and reservations, phone Clyde Anderson, 932.7225, or e-mail clydelanderson [at] cox [dot] net.

Greater Nebraska: Congressional District 3

BUY FRESH. BUY LOCAL . . . . Local markets are over for the year, but farmers, gardeners, and craftspeople still come together 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 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 newly expanded space at 1618 South Street. Buying local grows family farming, grows the local economy, and is thousands of miles fresher.

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