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.

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 the City of Omaha.

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 4:00pm. 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.

TOWNHALL MEETINGS OFFER OPPORTUNITY . . . Mayor Chris Beutler will hold one more public meeting for citizens of Lincoln to discuss local government priorities on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at Lincoln High School, 2229 J Street, 6:00 to 8:00pm. The townhall meeting will begin with social time at 5:30pm.

AMNESTY INTERATIONAL LETTER-WRITING GROUP . . . Wednesday, May 7, 2008, 7:00-9:00pm, Greens, activists and progressives meet at Jones Coffee, 727 South 11th Street in Lincoln, to learn about human rights violations around the world and what is being done to address them. Take personal action by writing letters and have a fair trade coffee with the group. For more infomation, call Matt Gregory, 402.570.7840 or e-mail plylas at hotmail dot com.

CELEBRATING ASIAN HERITAGE . . . Thursday, May 8, 2008, 7:00pm, the Asian Community and Cultural Center will present its annual Celebration Event at the UN-L Nebraska Union Ballroom, 1400 R Street, Lincoln. Exhibits, a cultural walk, fashion showcase and food auction will be featured. Tickets available here.

WELL KNOWN BIRD AUTHORITY TO LEAD BIRD WALK . . . Friends of Wilderness Park are sponsoring a bird identification walk in Wilderness Park on Saturday, May 10th, starting at 8:00am. The bird walk leaders will be Larry Einemann, a birder for nearly forty six years, and CD 1 Green Party member John Carlini. Einemann’s Lancaster County bird list stands at 304 different bird species. Meet in the Wilderness Park Parking Lot on the west side of South 14th Street between Yankee Hill Road and Rokeby Road. After the walk, there will be a potluck brunch in the 14th Street Parking Lot picnic area at 10am. All are invited to participate.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WOMEN BUILD . . . In celebration of National Women Build Week, Saturday, May 10, 2008 is an all-women work day beginning at 9:00am. Women will be framing or painting the exterior of a home at 5640 Kearney Avenue in Lincoln. Lunch will be served on the site. National Women Build Week celebrates the compassion, dedication, talents and abilities of women from all walks of life. Contact DiAnna Schimek, dschimek at earthlink dot net to participate.

PRIMARY EARLY VOTING NOW . . . Registered voters may vote in the primary election at the Lancaster County Election Commissioner’s office, 601 North 46 Street, Lincoln, Monday through Friday between now and May 13, 2008.

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.”

CALL FOR NGP STATE COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES . . . Nebraska Green Party Council Representatives will be elected at the 2008 NGP Convention, Saturday, June 7, 2008, 9:30am to 4:00pm at the PS Collective, 6056 Maple Street in the Benson community of Omaha. Representatives from all three Congressional Districts are needed. Contact Party Secretary, mjberry at inebraska dot com, if you are interested in joining the state Council of Nebraska Green Party.

CD 1 NGP CHAPTER MEETING . . . The NGP District 1 Chapter will not meet in April. CD 1 Greens will meet at Jones Coffee, 727 South 11th Street in Lincoln, 7:00pm, on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 to select District 1 NGP Council Representative nominees.

NEBRASKANS UNITED DECLINE TO SIGN MEETING . . . A group of concerned citizens opposed to a petition drive which would put an anti-Affirmative Action measure on the November ballot will meet Tuesday, April 29, 2008, 7:00pm at the YWCA, 1432 N Street, Lincoln. A video showing the effects of similar measures passed in other states will be presented. For background information, see http://www.nebraskansunited.org/about.htm. Just say no to local signature gatherers when “Civzil Rights” means ending Affirmative Action.

“AN UNREASONABLE MAN” . . . On Tuesday, April 29, 2008, a free showing of the Ralph Nader documentary “An Unreasonable Man” will be presented at Film Streams, 1340 Webster in Omaha, 6:00pm. The film will be followed by a 30-minute panel discussion with former NGP Co-Chair Frances Mendenhall (mentioned in the 2002 Nader book “Crashing the Party“), and Mark Zimmermann, current NGP Treasurer.

TOWNHALL MEETINGS OFFER OPPORTUNITY . . . Mayor Chris Beutler will hold two public meetings for citizens of Lincoln to discuss local government priorities. The townhall meetings will begin with social time at 5:30pm. The meetings are from 6:00 to 8:00pm, Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at North Star High School, 5801 N. 33rd Street, and Tuesday, May 6 at Lincoln High School, 2229 J Street.

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.

’68: THE YEAR NEBRASKA MATTERED . . . The original NET Television production “’68: The Year Nebraska Mattered” will be shown at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, 313 North 13th Street, in Lincoln on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 7:00pm. The program examines the turbulent presidential campaign of 1968, one of the few times Nebraska played a significant role in the national nomination process. Rarely seen film from the campaigns of Robert F. Kennedy, Eugene McCarthy, Richard Nixon and a near-riot at an Omaha campaign rally for segregationist George Wallace provide a backdrop to recollections of campaign volunteers. The program also draws parallels between the 1968 campaign and the presidential politics of 2008. The free screening is part of a national project to engage Americans in the democratic process.

IN-PERSON VOTER REGISTRATION . . . The deadline for in-person voter registration at the Lancaster County Election Commissioner’s office, 601 North 46th Street, Lincoln, is Friday, May 2, 2008, 6:00pm.

PRIMARY EARLY VOTING NOW . . . Registered voters may vote in the primary election at the Lancaster County Election Commissioner’s office, 601 North 46 Street, Lincoln, Monday through Friday between now and May 13, 2008. A Sample Ballot is at http://www.lincoln.ne.gov/cnty/election/Sample_0508.pdf.

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 will be on the ballot for Public Service Commission in Omaha.

IN LINCOLN, EARTH DAY, EVERY DAY . . . The Coalition for the Environment and Earth Day (CEED) will host an Earth Day event for the City of Lincoln at Antelope Park, Sunday, April 20, noon-4:00pm. The free, no-litter event will feature live music in the Antelope band shell, children’s activities, interactive displays, plus presentations by more than sixty local environmentally concerned groups, businesses and organizations.
Nebraska Green Party spearheaded CEED because this is an election year, and government agencies are not taking the lead on reducing our carbon footprint. Celebrate Earth Day, Every Day with Greens on April 20, 2008.

“AN UNREASONABLE MAN” . . . Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, 313 North 13th Street, Lincoln, will present a free showing of the Ralph Nader documentary “An Unreasonable Man” on Thursday, April 24, 2008, 7:00pm, followed by a 30-minute panel discussion with Green Party US Senate candidate Steve Larrick and CD 1 Green John Carlini.

FILMMAKERS TO APPEAR AT PREMIERE OF ALTERNATIVE FUEL FILM GASHOLE . . . On Friday, April 25, 2008, the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, 313 North 13th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, will premiere The Film Racket’s new documentary GasHole, narrated by Peter Gallagher. GasHole tackles the timely issue of gas consumption and alternative fuel. Directors/producers Jeremy Wagener and Scott D. Roberts will appear following the April 25, 7:30pm screening for Q&A. Doane College professors Les Manns (Economics) and Brian Pauwels (Psychology) are featured in GasHole and will also appear. The documentary runs from Friday, April 25 through Thursday, May 8, 2008. Show times are available at www.TheRoss.org, or by calling the film information line at 402.472.5353. For more about The “GasHole” National Tour visit www.gasholemovie.com.

GREEN WEEK AT QUILT MUSEUM . . . The International Quilt Study Center & Museum is hosting Green Week activities for students, families and professionals in celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day, Sunday April 20, through Friday April 25, 2008. The new Quilt Center is the university’s first sustainable building. For admission of $5, visitors may tour the exhibition and the environmentally friendly building. More information, phone 402.472.6549.

GREENS WILL TABLE EARTH DAY AT NEBRASKA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY . . . Tuesday, April 22, 2008, students and friends will gather from 5-8:00pm on the NWU campus east of Old Main (North 50th Street at about Saint Paul Avenue). In case of rain, the event will be inside the Student Center. (Organizers will be wearing orange t-shirts.) More information: contact mtegler at nebrwesleyan dot edu, or 402.202.0497.

REGISTER TO VOTE . . . Voter registration sites in Lancaster County this week: Monday, 5:30pm to 7:00pm, Super Saver, 27th and Pine Lake Road; Tuesday, Wednesday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Roy G. Story Student Center, First Floor; Wednesday, 5:00pm to 6:30pm, Super Saver, 48th & O Streets, Lincoln. Mail in forms are on page 80 of the blue pages in the phone book, and at www.lancaster.ne.gov/election. They must be postmarked no later than April 25, 2008 for the May 13th primary election. Register in person at the Election Commission office, 601 N. 46th Street, 8:00am to 4:30pm through May 2, 2008.

SOLIDARITY VIGIL WITH WAR PROTESTER FATHER JACK McCASLIN . . . Omaha Peace Activist Father Jack McCaslin must appear at the Federal Court House, 18th & Douglas Street, for a probation violation hearing on Tuesday April 22, 2008, at 10:00am. Judge Thalken’s court room is on the 2nd floor.

CHANGING NATURE . . . Tuesday, April 22, 2008, 7:00pm, the Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th Street, Lincoln, presents the EN Thompson Forum on World Issues featuring Former Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt: “Nebraska’s Water Future: Feast or Famine?” Find Changing Nature Series information at http://enthompson.unl.edu/.

FRIENDS OF WILDERNESS PARK MEET . . .On Tuesday, April 22 at 7:00pm, landscape architect Kim Todd, Assistant Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture at UN-L, will address the April meeting of Friends of Wilderness Park on the wonder of wildflowers and how they can be used in gardens. There is no admission for the program at Meadowlark Coffee House, 1624 South Street, Lincoln, next to Open Harvest.

GREENS VIGIL FOR PEACE . . . Join Greens and Peace Activists every Wednesday, 5:00 to 6:00pm at the Federal Building, 15th & O Street, Lincoln, for a visible presence against the US occupation in Iraq. Contact Mark at 402.499.6672, or mark at weddleton dot com.

LINCOLN GREEN DRINKS INTERNATIONAL . . . Anyone studying or working on environmental issues is invited to meet up at Green Drinks Wednesday, April 23, 2008, 5:30pm until close, at Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill, 210 North 7th Street in Lincoln’s Haymarket. Walk, cycle, bus or carpool to Lazlo’s for fun, inspiration and networking with local environmentalists.

OMAHA PEACE AND JUSTICE EXPO . . . The theme of the Saturday, April 26, 2008, 9:30am-5:00pm, Lewis and Clark Middle School, 6901 Burt Street, Omaha, is “Working Toward A World Without Poverty.” Featured speaker is Sam Daley-Harris, Director of the Microcredit Summit Campaign giving loan to the very poor in Third World Countries, founder of the international citizens lobby organization RESULTS, and author of “Reclaiming Our Democracy: Healing the Break Between People and Government.” There is a $5.00 suggested donation at the door. For further information, phone 402.320.7213, or e-mail info at peaceexpo dot org.

PARTY FOR THE PLANET . . . Saturday, April 26, 2008, 10:00am to 3:00pm, Earth Day will be celebrated at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, on 27th near A Street. Bring used ink cartridges to recycle. There will be wildlife-friendly activities and giveaways.

SHARING IDEAS — BUILDING BRIDGES – THE FOURTH ANNUAL GLBT SUMMIT . . . Saturday April 26, 2008 at Mahoney State Park, the theme will be networking, information sharing, and social opportunities. The summit is from 8:30am to 4:30pm, with a cookout from 4:30 to 9:00pm. For more information contact: Tim in Lincoln, optima2400 at windstream dot net, 402.483.6183; or Jim in Omaha jkiefferjr at cox dot net, 402.553.1670.

OMAHA HEALTH, WELLNESS, AND FITNESS EXPO . . . Saturday, April 26, 11:00am-7:00pm and Sunday, April 27, 2008, 11:00am-5:00pm, Exhibition Hall & Mancuso Convention Center, Omaha Civic Auditorium, 17th Street and Capitol Ave., Omaha. The free Health Expo will feature Mind, Body & Spirit seminars, demonstrations and educational activities. Website information: http://www.showofficeonline.com/OmahaHealthWellnessFitnessExpo.html. E-mail: OmahaHealthExpo dot com.

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 will be on the ballot for Public Service Commission in Omaha.