Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace Past Events

Friday and Saturday, August 20 -21,The 12th Anniversary, Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference, National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY. Presenters will include: Diane Reiner, Joyce Reeves, Rich Goodhart, Ed Kinane, Elliott Adams, Rudyard Edick, and Fr. Jerry Zawada. Friday Schedule: 6:00 - 7:00 PM Potluck Supper, 7:10 - Opening Remarks, 7:15 - 8:45 PM A Council of All Beings, Diane Reiner and Joyce Reeves, The “COUNCIL OF ALL BEINGS”, is a colorful, communal ritual which allows us to shift perspectives and speak restore our relationship with nature. This will be a fully participatory event that promises to offer fresh opportunities to speak out about our world today. Saturday Schedule: 8:45 - 9:15 AM Registration & Coffee, 9:30 - 10:30 AM Opening remarks: John Amidon & Maureen Aumand, 9:30 - 10:30 Drones, Blowback and Domestic Surveillance by Ed Kinane, 10:30 - 11:30 Workshops- for workshop descriptions and presenter's biographies visit "Workshops & Presenters", 11:30 - 12:30 Lunch, 12:30 - 1:30 "Shaman Mirror Medicine Tree: A World Music solo performance with Rich Goodhart", 1:30 - 2:30 We Are All One! by Fr. Jerry Zawada, 2:30 - 3:30 Community Talk Back- information on our Talk Back may be found with our workshop descriptions, 3:30 Closing Remarks See the Conference Website for details including workshops topics. Information: jajaja1234@aol.com

BNP Film: The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers

Thursday, August 5, 6:45 - 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

TheMost Dangerous Man in America (2009, 93 minutes) chronicles Pentagon insider Daniel Ellsberg's leaking of top-secret government papers that disclosed shocking truths about the Vietnam War and Nixon's presidency. Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith directed this Oscar-nominated account that features compelling interviews with Ellsberg, and retired New York Times editor Max Frankel. Information on the film showing: 466-1192.

“The most exciting thriller I’ve seen in a while – as powerful as anything Hollywood can throw at us.”
- V.A. Musetto, New York Post

BNP Film: The People Speak, Narrated by Howard Zinn
Thursday, July 1, 6:45 - 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

The People Speak ( 2009, 113 minutes) was inspired by historian Howard Zinn's, "A People's History of the United States". Actors recreate the voices of American history's most eloquent dissenters, many of whom are excluded from traditional history books. The words of slaves, authors, politicians, poets, protesters and others come to life. A discussion will follow. Information on the film showing: 466-1192.

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Crude: The Real Price of Oil"
Saturday, June 19, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District concludes its 2009-2010 film series with the screening of an impassioned documentary, "Crude: The Real Price of Oil" (2009, 100 minutes). In this epic account of one of the largest and most controversial environmental lawsuits on the planet, 30,000 residents of Ecuador's Amazon jungle are pitted against the powerful oil giant Chevron. The Ecuadorians claim that Texaco -- which merged with Chevron in 2001 -- spent three decades systematically exploiting and contaminating their homeland, resulting in increased rates of cancer, leukemia, birth defects, and other health ailments, as well as in the destruction of the indigenous people and their traditional way of life. According to a review in the "New York Times," this powerful indictment of multinational corporate practices provides "a forceful, often infuriating story about Big Oil and little people." The film-showing -- co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action -- will take place in spacious Emerson Hall at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. . Information at 466-1192

BNP Film: Coal Country
Thursday, June 3, 6:45 - 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Coal Country ( 2009, 85 minutes) What is the price for cheap energy? We get to know working miners along with activists who are battling coal companies in Appalachia. We hear from miners and coal company officials, who are concerned about jobs and the economy and believe they are acting responsibly in bringing power to the American people. Both sides in this conflict claim that history is on their side. Families have lived in the region for generations, and most have ancestors who worked in the mines. Everyone shares a deep love for the land, but MTR (Mountain Top Removal mining which has leveled over 500 Appalachian mountains) is tearing them apart. We need to understand the meaning behind promises of “cheap energy” and “clean coal.” Are they achievable? At whatcost? Are there alternatives to our energy future? A discussion will follow. Information on the film showing: 466-1192.

Solidarity Committee- Film: "THE YES MEN FIX THE WORLD"
Saturday, May 22, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with the screening of an uproariously humorous documentary, "The Yes Men Fix the World" (2009, 87 minutes). In this screwball true story, two gonzo political activists, posing as top executives of giant corporations, lie their way into big business conferences and pull off the world's most outrageous pranks. From New Orleans to India to New York City, armed with little more than cheap thrift-store suits, the Yes Men apply raucous comedy to a multitude of ways that corporate greed is destroying the planet. According to journalist Naomi Klein, the resulting film is "hilarious, therapeutic, inspiring." Don't miss it! The Yes Men Fix the World Challenge. The film-showing -- co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action -- will take place in spacious Emerson Hall at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. Information at 466-1192

Blue Gold: World Water Wars
Thursday, May 13, 6:45-8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Blue Gold: World Water Wars (2009, 90 minutes) explores another potential source of future wars: control of water. As the population increases, governments become increasingly corrupt, and corporations gain control, water will be increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain. A discussion will follow. More information on "peak water". Information on the film showing: 466-1192.

Hudson Mohawk May Day 2010 Celebration: International Labor Day
Friday, April 30 - Saturday, May 1
Friday, April 30, 7:30 pm--The Eighth Step presents a spectacularly irreverent, powerful and hilarious concert of political commentary with ANNE FEENEY, ROY ZIMMERMAN & EVAN GREER, three of our very best political singer-songwriters: 8th Step at Proctors (440 Thr), 440 State Street, Schenectady. Doors open at 7. Feeney: union maid, hellraiser & labor singer; Zimmerman: funny songs about ignorance, war & greed; Greer: high-energy, very radical acoustic music. Tix $22, $5 discount for union & CW members; Student Rush $10 at 7:25 pm. For information, advance tickets & info about tabling space ($30) during the concert, call (518) 434-1703/Email/eighthstep@aol.com or visit eighthstep.org. Free parking, accessible; unsold tickets available at the door.

Saturday, May 1, 1-4 pm, West Capital Park, Albany . The 12th Annual May Day Celebration will be held at West Capital Park in Albany. There will be Music, poetry, food and tables for literature. Speakers will focus on more jobs, less war, better healthcare and fairer trade, support for public education and the right for every one to marry, no to state layoffs and yes to union organizing, support for fair taxation and for immigrant rights. More Information: call (518) 273-2759 or see the Hudson-Mohawk May Day website.

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Trumbo"
Saturday, April 10, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with a screening of the powerful documentary, Trumbo (2007, 96 minutes). Although Dalton Trumbo was Hollywood's most successful screen writer, he fell afoul of the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1947, when he refused to cooperate with it. Imprisoned, blacklisted, and brought to the edge of financial ruin thereafter, he fought back tenaciously and, ultimately, prevailed. This film, recounting Trumbo's life through personal letters, interviews and archival footage, provides a testament to the courage it takes to stand up for principle against overwhelming odds. In a rave review, the New York Times called Trumbo a "stirring documentary." The film-showing -- co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. Information: 466-1192

BNP Film- Capitalism: A Love Story
Thursday, April 1, 6:30 -8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Capitalism : A Love Story (2009), runs 127 minutes. Michael Moore takes on capitalism's roots, the floundering U.S. economy, and 2008's global financial meltdown and subsequent bank bailout in this documentary. Michael Morre interviews those who have suffered most from the Wall Street bailout. Discussion to follow. Please arrive early as this is a long film and we need to start promptly. Information: 466-1192

BNP Film and Discussion: Blind Spot - - a documentary film on peak oil and sustainability

Blind Spot was directed by, Adolfo Doring, released ion 2008 ( Running time 1:28). Blind Spot is a documentary that illustrates the current energy crisis that our way of life is facing. Whatever the measures of greed, wishful thinking, neglect or ignorance, we have put ourselves at a crossroad which offers two paths, both with dire consequences. If we continue to burn fossil fuels we will choke the life out of the planet and if we don't, will our way of life will collapse? Prof. Al Bartlett is interviewed."Official Selection", Woodstock Film Festival 2008 Documentary. Watch the Bartlett interview. Rudyard Edick will lead us in a discussion following the film. Information: 466-1192,This will be a mini-pot luck...so please bring snacks to share. Join us!

Solidarity Committee- Film: "The Coca-Cola Case"
Saturday, March 27, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with a screening of the film, "The Coca-Cola Case" (2009, 86 minutes). This powerful documentary takes a look at labor relations in Colombia, the labor union murder capital of the world. In this nation, 470 workers' leaders have been brutally killed since 2002, usually by paramilitaries hired by private companies intent on crushing unions. Among these unscrupulous corporations is the poster boy for American business: Coca-Cola. But "The Coca-Cola Case" also provides an epochal story of resistance, for it shows how labor activist Ray Rogers and other defenders of workers' rights stepped in and launched an ambitious crusade against this corporate behemoth. From Bogota to New York, Guatemala to Atlanta, Washington to Canada, "The Coca-Cola Case" depicts a suspense-filled, hard-fought struggle -- one that continues today. The film-showing -- co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action -- will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

7th Anniversary March Against the Wars
Friday, March 19, 5 pm
March to begin at West Capital Park, Albany

Meet at the step in the West Capitol Park across from the Smith Building . Please bring signs. We will also carry displays with the names of Americans, Iraqis and Afghans who have been killed in the wars. We will march through the Albany downtown area with our signs and displays. Please spread the word.This is the seventh anniversary of the criminal war of aggression launched against Iraq. The demonstration will demand the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Afghanistan and Iraq. Instead of war, we will demand funds so that every person can have a job, free and universal health care, decent schools, and affordable housing.

We will construct these displays in Guilderland on Thursday evening, March 18. Please come Thursday night to help with the construction. . There will be more information about the time and place soon. The displays are being coordinated by Steve Wickham from Guilderland Neighbors for Peace. Sponsored by Northeast Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC). More Information: 518 439-1968 or 518 466-1192

March 20, 2010 Washington, DC March on Washington!
Saturday, March 20, 2010, Demonstration: US out of Afghanistan and Iraq Now! , Washington DC... March 20 is the seventh anniversary of the criminal war of aggression launched against Iraq. The demonstration will demand the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all U.S. and NATO forces from Afghanistan and Iraq. Instead of war, we will demand funds so that every person can have a job, free and universal health care, decent schools, and affordable housing. The 7th Anniversary of the war in Iraq is the time to make our voices heard...a bus will be leaving from the East Garage in Albany at 1 AM on March 20 and return to Albany after the demonstration on March 21 around 1:00 AM. Seats are $60 each. There will be partial scholarships available.Reserve a bus seat today. Reservations must be received by March 10. Checks made out to "BNP", can be sent to, BNP, PO Box 473, Delmar, NY 12054 (please include name(s) of bus riders , phone and e-mail address with check). Donations also accepted. Additional Bus Information. Sponsored by several national anti-war groups and coalitions, including the National Assembly. More Information: Joe Lombardo at 439-1968

Thursday, March 4, 7:00 - 9:00 pm, WAMC Linda Norris Auditorium, 339 Central Ave (at Quail St), Albany, NY. "Forum on War: Do the Peace Movement and the Tea Party Movement agree?" The "Right, Left, and In Between Dialogue" planning committee present the 3rd in a series of local public forums, bringing together representatives of widely diverse thoughts. The public is invited to hear speakers from many sides of the issue, and to participate in the discussion. The format will be 3 speakers from each perspective, and a moderator. The 1st part will be approximately 30 minutes, with each speaker giving introductory remarks of about 5 minutes each. Speakers will alternate between "right" and "left" viewpoints. The 2nd part, also approximately 30 minutes, will have the speakers asking each other questions, and discussing their areas of agreement and disagreement. The 3rd part will have audience members posing questions to the speakers. Speakers include: Joe Lombardo, Jason Peterson, Mabel Leon, Patrick S. Zeigler, Steven Vasquez and John Minehan. Contact: Dennis Karius at the below email address, or 518 456-5721. Sponsored by: the Right, Left and In Between Dialogue Planning Committee, consisting of people who are active members in the following local organizations: MoveOn.org Capital Region Council , Campaign for Liberty, Interfaith Alliance of NYS, 9-12 Project, Capital District Greens, We The People, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, John Birch Society, Labor-Religion Coalition of the Capital District/Jobs with Justice, and ARISE (A Regional Initiative Supporting Empowerment).

BNP Film: Iran (is not the problem)
Thursday, March 4, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

IRAN (is not the problem) (79 minutes, 2008) is a film responding to the failure of the American mass media to provide the public with relevant and accurate information about the standoff between the US and Iran, as happened before with the lead up to the invasion of Iraq. This film contains current analysis, history, including US overthrow of democratic Iranian government in 1953, interviews with Iranian-Americans. Noam Chomsky advised. Discussion to follow the film. Information: 466-1192

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Salud!"
Saturday, February 27, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with a screening of the powerful documentary, "Salud!" (2007, 93 minutes). Against the alarming backdrop of the deteriorating public health systems in even the richest nations, "Salud!" tells the little-known story of how Cuba, a poor country with few resources, provides universal health care to its citizens and helps other developing nations do the same. Directed by Academy Award nominee Connie Field ("Rosie the Riveter"), the film examines the philosophy and activities of health professionals working to make health care a global birthright. According to former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders, "Salud!" provides a "deeply moving portrayal of a healthcare system designed to keep people healthy rather than the `sickcare' system that currently exists in the United States." The film-showing -- co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. Information: 466-1192

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Juan Melendez 6446"
Saturday, January 23, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with the new documentary, "Juan Melendez 6446" (2009, 50 minutes). The film tells the true story of Juan Meléndez, a Puerto Rican migrant worker raised in New York City who came close to being executed for a crime he did not commit. Convicted of murder in the state of Florida, he served nearly eighteen years on death row before his innocence was established. This harrowing story, told by Meléndez, his mother, lawyers, and friends, illustrates the issues raised by the death penalty in law, politics, and public policy. A post-film discussion will be led by David Kaczynski of New Yorkers for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. The film-showing -- co-sponsored by New Yorkers for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, and Upper Hudson Peace Action -- will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

BNP Film: Vietnam- American Holocaust
Thursday, January 14, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with the documentary, "Surplus: Terrorized into Being Consumers" (2003, 52 minutes). Shot in the United States, India, China, Italy, Sweden, Hungary, and elsewhere, this very unusual film explores the superficial nature of what has become the major freedom encouraged in many societies: the freedom to consume. Directed by Italian-Swedish filmmaker Eric Gandini and edited by Swedish music composer/editor/percussionist Johan Söderberg, "Surplus" shows why the purchase of goods does not necessarily lead to happiness. A post-film discussion will be led by Brooke Newell of the NY Citizens Trade Campaign.
This film-showing—co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action—will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. Information: 466-1192

Battle in Seattle (2007, 98 minutes) This dramatization of the 1999 protests of the World Trade Organization meeting in Seattle. This drama features actors Charlize Theron, Woody Harrelson, André Benjamin, Connie Nielsen and Michelle Rodriguez. Most of us know how the protested ended but this dramatization is sure to spark discussion. Roger Ebert: ".... "Battle in Seattle" makes a case for the way the WTO punishes Third World nations, allows the dumping of surpluses that drive workers away from jobs and is managed for the benefit of fat-cat nations. " After the film, Brooke Newell of the NY Citizens Trade Campaign will lead a discussion and talk about the 2009 Trade Act. Information 466-1192

Tuesday, December 1st, 7:00 p.m. Roger Bacon Hall 202 (Key Auditorium), Siena College. Scott Ritter and Dr. Larry Wittner on Nuclear Weapons Dangers Today. Scott Ritter has had an extensive and distinguished career in government service. He is an intelligence specialist with a 12-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps including assignments in the former Soviet Union and the Middle East. Rising to the rank of Major, Ritter spent several months of the Gulf War serving under General Norman Schwarzkopf with US Central Command headquarters in Saudi Arabia, where he played an instrumental role in formulating and implementing combat operations targeting Iraqi mobile missile launchers which threatened Israel. In 1991, Ritter joined the United Nations weapons inspections team, or UNSCOM. He participated in 34 inspection missions, 14 of them as chief inspector. Ritter resigned from UNSCOM in August 1998, citing US interference in the work of the inspections. He is the author of many books, including “Iraq Confidential: The Untold Story of the Intelligence Conspiracy to Undermine the UN and Overthrow Saddam Hussein” and most recently “Target Iran: The Truth About the White House’s Plans for Regime Change.” Lawrence S. Wittner is Professor of History at the State University of New York/Albany, and a former president of the Peace History Society. His books include Rebels Against War (1969, rev. ed. 1984), Cold War America (1974, rev. ed. 1978), and American Intervention in Greece (1982). His most extensive project was an award-winning, scholarly trilogy entitled The Struggle Against the Bomb (1993-2003). In June 2009, he came out with an abbreviated version: Confronting the Bomb: A Short History of the World Nuclear Disarmament Movement. He has also edited or co-edited four other books, co-edited the scholarly journal Peace & Change, and written about 200 published articles and book reviews. A Presentation in Concert with Psychology 490 Seminar: Political Psychology (a Problem-Based Service Learning Course) Co-sponsored by: School of Liberal Arts/Peace Studies, The Franciscan Center for Service and Advocacy Bonner Service Leaders Program, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Mr. Ritter and Dr. Wittner also will be signing their most recent books, which will be for sale at the event. For further information, contact Dr. Mo Hannah (Hannah@siena.edu)

Local Peace Groups call for Action on Escalation of Afghanistan War, Wednesday, December 2

Join us in in Albany at the intersection of Wolf Road and Central Avenue on Wednesday, December 2, for a 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. picket line in front of the Colonie Shopping Center. We have signs calling for an end to the Afghan war, or bring your own. The protest is being organized by Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace, Women Against War, Upper Hudson Peace Action, and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Please share this plan immediately with your organization' s members. We invite other regional groups to join us as co-sponsors, so please spread the word.

8 Years of War in Afghanistan, How Many More?

CONTACTS:
Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Joe Lombardo at 518 439-1968 or jlombard@nycap. rr.com
Veteran for Peace, Dan Wilcox at 518 482-0262 or dwlcx@earthlink. net
Women Against War, Maureen Aumand at 518 869-6674 or maumand@nycap. rr.com

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with a showing of the outstanding five part film , "Rethink Afghanistan" (2009, 75 minutes). Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Robert Greenwald—whose screen credits include "Outfoxed," "Wal-Mart," and "Iraq for Sale"—this film exposes the true costs of the military occupation of Afghanistan, the daily struggles facing U.S. soldiers, and the hardships endured by Afghan civilians. At this time when the U.S. role in Afghanistan is being debated among government officials and the public, "Rethink Afghanistan" could not be more timely. A discussion after the film screening will be led by Connie Frisbee Houde, who recently returned from a visit to Afghanistan. This event—co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Upper Hudson Peace Action, and Women Against War. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome. Information: 466-1192

Kathy Kelly: Pot Luck Dinner and Silent Auction Fundraiser
Friday, November 13, 6:30 - 9:00 pm
Delmar Reformed Church
386 Delaware Ave, Delmar, NY

Please join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Kathy Kelly for a pot-luck dinner. Please bring a dish to share. This event will be a fund-raiser for Kathy as she continues her peace work in the Middle East. There will be a suggested donation of $10.00 per person (more if you can, less if you cannot) and we will be having a silent auction as well. If you have a book, CD, DVD, baked goods or services you would like to donate for the silent auction, they will be greatly appreciated. A number of local merchants are donating gift certificates for this event. This will be a fun, delicious and interesting evening as Kathy shares her recent experiences. We look forward to seeing you all on November 13th! Please rsvp to Leslie Hudson 768-4676 or cathudson@att.net

BNP Film: Soldiers of Conscience
Tuesday, November 10, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Paola Gutierrez Galindo will speak on Why We Migrate: Stories of Mexico's Displaced.
Friday, October 23 at 7:00pm
SUNY Albany, HU 113
1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222

The immigration debate, now heating up again, has revolved around border walls, deportations, and policies that have proven not only inhumane, but ineffective at resolving the undocumented migration crisis. Surprisingly lacking from this debate is one essential question: why? Why do millions of Latin Americans make the unlikely decision to leave their communities and cross a dangerous desert in order to live in a country with increasingly draconian anti-immigrant laws? Why did the number of Mexicans who made this decision double after the implementation of the U.S.-pushed North American Free Trade Agreement? To shed some light, Paola Gutierrez Galindo is coming from southern Mexico to tell stories of her family members, of her neighbors, of the vast majority of her community who now live as immigrants in the U.S. Paola will untangle the complex factors, including concrete U.S. economic policies, that have pushed person after person to abandon her community and come live among ours. Witness for Peace MidAtlantic Speaking tour. Information: Jackie: jhayes09@hotmail.com

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010 film series with a showing of the outstanding documentary, "The War at Home" (1979, 100 minutes). Nominated for an Academy Award and widely considered one of the most important political films ever made, "The War at Home" vividly chronicles the anti-Vietnam War movement of the 1960s and early 1970s. Through a powerful combination of rare archival footage and interviews with students, community leaders, Vietnam veterans, and participants from all points of view, this film shows how the movement for peace grew into a genuine people's revolt.This film-showing—co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action—will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Film: The Reckoning; the Struggle for the International Criminal Court
with filmmaker Peter Kinoy
Friday, October 16, 7 PM
WAMC Linda Norris Auditorium
339 Central Ave., Albany

Late in the 20th century, in response to repeated mass atrocities around the world, more than 120 countries united to form the International Criminal Court (ICC)—the first permanent court created to prosecute perpetrators (no matter how powerful) of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide. The Reckoning follows dynamic ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo and his team for 3 years across 4 continents as he issues arrest warrants for Lord’s Resistance Army leaders in Uganda, puts Congolese warlords on trial, shakes up the Colombian justice system, and charges Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir with genocide in Darfur, challenging the UN Security Council to arrest him. Building cases against genocidal criminals presents huge challenges, and the Prosecutor has a mandate but no police force. At every turn, he must pressure the international community to muster political will for the cause. Like a deft thriller, The Reckoning keeps you on the edge of your seat, in this case with two riveting dramas—the prosecution of unspeakable crimes and the ICC’s fight for efficacy in its nascent years. As this tiny court in The Hague struggles to change the world and forge a new paradigm for justice, innocent victims suffer and wait. Will the Prosecutor succeed? Will the world ensure that justice prevails? This special event is sponsored by: Peace Action, Women Against War, Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, Citizen Action of NY, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. We suggest you order your tickets ahead of time and come early to assure seating. For tickets call: 465-5233, ext. 4

Peace March and Rally on Saturday, October 17, West Capital Park (West side of the Capitol), Albany, NY at 12 pm. End the Wars! Stop the bombing of Pakistan!

Endorsers include the North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC), Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Solidarity Committee, Guilderland Neighbors for Peace, Women Against War, Troy Neighbors for Peace, Upper Hudson Peace Action, Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace, Muslim Solidarity Committee, Schenectady Neighbors for Peace, Cap. Dist. Interfaith Alliance, Social Justice Committee of the Schenectady Unitarian Society, Albany Friends meeting, Berkshire Citizens for Peace and Justice, Syracuse Peace Council, Rockland Coalition for Peace and Justice, Saratoga Peace Alliance, Peace Action & Education of Rochester, NY .

Speakers will including Jimmy Massey, founding member of Iraq Veterans Against the War, Marilyn Fisher, member of Military Families Speak Out, Connie Frisbee Houde local resident who will just be returning of Afghanistan and other.

Live Music by The Ameros (Jesse Calhoun, Kawari, Sean Muniz, Kiki Vassilakis)

Peace and Justice Organizations welcome to table at this event.

October has several dates with significance for the peace movement. In October 2009, we'll mark the eighth year of the U.S. war in Afghanistan and seven years since Congress passed the resolution authorizing war against Iraq. In addition, October commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Vietnam Moratorium, which brought hundreds of thousands into the streets to protest the war. We support and endorse a two-week period of united mass actions, beginning October 3 and culminating on October 17. This includes Monday, October 5 as the date for a national mass march and non-violent civil resistance at the U.S. House of Representatives office buildings and the White House.

"There comes a time when silence is betrayal…" Dr. M. L. King, 1967

"Worker's Republic" w/ filmmaker Andrew Freund
Saturday, October 17 , 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

Workers’ Republic, (Filmmaker: Andrew Freund, 2009, 62 min). A story of the courage, resolve, creativity, and solidarity of the workers at Republic Windows and Doors who stood up for their rights after being thrown out of work three weeks before Christmas 2008.Three weeks before Christmas 2008, in the depths of the economic crisis, Chicago company Republic Windows and Doors told their workforce that the factory was closing shop. Republic executives complained about dwindling sales due to the crash of the housing market. Three days later, when the Republic employees came in to pick up their final paychecks, they were informed that they would not be paid for their final week or receive their accrued vacation pay. Their insurance benefits were cut immediately, and they were denied the 60-day severance guaranteed under the federal WARN Act.

What those workers did next reverberated across the country, reminding the working class it possesses a power long forgotten. They occupied the doomed factory 24-hours a day for six days, declaring they would not leave until they were given what their employer owed them.
Workers’ Republic conveys the courage, the resolve, the creativity, and the solidarity of those window-builders who vowed to stand up for their rights. From the opening moments to the final settlement and culminating in the surprise fate of the Chicago factory, the film commits one of American society’s most grievous sins: speaking in favor of radical action as a solution to exploitation.

Filmmaker and union steward Andrew Freund has assembled the accounts of several of the main fighters in the Republic struggle, including front line workers, the organizers of their tiny union United Electrical, Radio, & Machine Workers, and a few of the thousands of everyday people that supported them through small acts of solidarity. Co-sponsored by The Sanctuary for Independent Media, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the Troy Area Labor Council. Admission: by donation ($10 suggested, $5 student/low-income)

BNP Forum: 'Hydrofracking:' Toxic gas-drilling in NYS
Thursday, October 1 , 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Learn more about the potentially disastrous "hydrofracking" currently underway in New York State. Underneath much of upstate NY is the Marcellus Shale, a rock layer that some geologists predict could meet the nation's natural gas needs for more than two years. However, this is potentially disastrous for our drinking water supply . "The gas in the Marcellus is held like bubbles in a brick of Swiss cheese. To extract it, a mixture of water, sand and chemicals is shot into the earth with such force it fractures the rock, releasing the bubbles to the surface. When the gas surfaces, so does the water - laden with natural toxins from the shale, including suspected cancer-causing compounds." according to a 2008 article in the Albany Times Union. Corporations have been given permits to drill without liability if our aquifers become polluted. As our government pursues energy supplies through wars, and looks the other way as corporations pollute and pillage, how can we pursue true "homeland security"? Find out more.

Solidarity Committee- Film: Trouble the Water
Saturday, September 26, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

Presentation by Dr. Steve Breyman: "An Af-Pak Strategy for Obama"
Thursday, September 3, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054
Dr. Steve Breyman, author of recent articles appearing on counterpunch.com, AntiWar.com and foreignpolicy.com, will present a talk on: "An Af-Pak Strategy for Obama". Read some of Steve's recent articles: Beginning to Smell in Afghanistan , Counting the Unemployed, Is Obama Ignoring Iarael? , Bomber Joe and Russio: Why is Biden Channeling Cheney? Steve Breyman teaches at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Information: 466-1192

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC) Meeting
Wednseday, August 12, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, Channing Hall
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The meeting is being called to organize our area’s participation in fall actions that are being planned. As you may know, at the recent conference of the National Assembly to End the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars and Occupations, a program of action was decided on with other peace and justice forces that were present. Organizations from around the country are joining the call and it is hoped that the other major national anti-war coalitions will also join the call and that we can have united actions for peace this fall.

The actions that were decided on at the conference included a 3 week period started in Pittsburgh on September 24 and 25 to protest the G20 meeting representing the countries with the 20 largest economies in the world. At these meetings in the past, these powerful countries have put forward programs that have been to the detriment to the world’s ecology, to the world’s poor and to the cause of peace. The 2 week period will end with local and region peace actions around the country on October 17. These are planned around the date of the beginning of the war on Afghanistan and will focus on that war and occupation. At the meeting we hope to plan actions for our area on that date, perhaps in conjunction with other Upstate New York areas. The 3 week period will also include a weekday mobilization and non-violent resistance in Washington , DC on October 5 and some other activity. Additionally, during the fall, there is a large mobilization being planned in Washington on gay rights. This will take place on October 10.

We hope to have people from this area that are organizing for that event at the meeting. Also, Please let Joe Lombardo know if your organization would like to endorse this fall program of action and I will send you an official endorsement form or fill it out for you. Your group will then be listed on the national endorser’s list. Please join us on August 12 and/or ask your organization to send representatives to the meeting. For more information on the fall actions, please see www.natassembly.org.Contact: Joe at 439-1968 or jlombard@nycap.rr.com for further information.

Harnessing the Winds of Change: The 11th Anniversary, Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference
Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15
National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY

Friday evening, beginning at 6:00 pm , August 14 and Saturday, August 15, 2009. Harnessing the Winds of Change - On election night, 2008, people all across the world were joyful and celebrated both the election of our first African-American President and the coming end of George W. Bush’s failed presidency. With the election of President Obama, America clearly voted for change. The issue of race was also brought to center stage predominantly in a positive way. Many of us began to smile again with renewed hope and it seemed as if a soft and gentle spring breeze move across the land. Please come. All are welcome! Check the conference website for the latest information. Cost: Friday Evening, Pot Luck Dinner and Free Will Offering; Saturday, Students and Seniors $10.00, Adults - $15.00 through $40.00. High School students free.

BNP Film: FLOW: How Did A Handful of Corporations Steal Our Water?
Thursday, August 6, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Flow, directed by Irena Salina, (2008, 84 minutes) gives us a look at the practical solutions to the water crisis and developing new technologies, which are fast becoming blueprints for a successful global and economic turnaround. Salina builds a case against the growing privatization of the world's dwindling fresh water supply with an unflinching focus on politics, pollution, human rights, and the emergence of a domineering world water cartel. This film presents an investigation into what experts label the most important political and environmental issue of the 21st Century - The World Water Crisis. "The scariest movie at the Sundance Festival" --Wired Magazine. The film will be followed by a discussion. Information: 439-1968

BNP Annual Summer Pot Luck Picnic ..BNPSemi Annual Store Clearance and Fund Raiser
Sunday, August 2, 3:00 PM- Dusk
Elm Avenue Park, 261 Elm Avenue, Pavilion A
Delmar, NY

Bethlehem Town Park, Pavilion A, 261 Elm Avenue, DelmarThis will be our long awaited chance to socialize and have fun! Please bring a dish to share and if possible, your own plate and utensils. Bring musical instruments to make music, good stories, games etc., and lawn chairs or blankets. Join us for the social event of the summer! For more information or to volunteer for set up or clean up, Call Trudy 466-1192

5th Anniversary Commemoration of the Arrests of YASSIN AREF & MOHAMMED HOSSAIN
Tuesday August 4, 5:00-7:00 pm.
Rally & March - 5th Anniversary Commemoration of the Arrests of YASSIN AREF & MOHAMMED HOSSAIN. Rally at the Washington Avenue Armory, March to the Masjid As-Salam Mosque, followed by speakers at the Mosque about the Aref/Hossain case and other cases of wrongfully prosecuted Muslims
For more information, contact Lynne Jackson at 434-6659 or lynnejackson@mac.com
Schedule:
5:00 - Rally at the Armory, Lark and Washington
5:30 - March to Masjid As-Salam Mosque, 276 Central Ave, Albany.
5:45 - Speakers about Aref/Hossain and other cases of wrongfully prosecuted Muslims

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009 film series with a showing of "The World According to Monsanto" (109 minutes). This French documentary, directed by independent filmmaker Marie-Monique Robin, paints a grim picture of a company with a long track record of environmental crimes and health scandals. This film is for anyone interested in the behind the scenes world of the food industry, and how just one world dominating corporation holds the keys and patents to much of the worlds food supply. Monsanto, which started out as one of the planets largest chemical companies is also responsible for such chemical compounds as Agent Orange, Bovine Growth Hormone, PCBs and genetically-engineered crops. The film-showing, co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the Honest Weight Food Coop, will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Iraq War Veteran and Conscientious Objector Josh Stieber will speak in Delmar, as he hikes across the US
Thursday, July 9, 7:00 -8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

With the military announcing successes in Iraq and seeking to repeat it's surge strategy in Afghanistan, the nature of these policies begs further examination. Are these tactics as successful as the military proclaims? What were the costs and human factors of these accomplishments? A first-hand testimony can be heard from the 21 year old, Iraq veteran Josh Stieber.
Stieber was deployed to Baghdad as part of the Surge from Feb 07 to Apr 09. He spent the majority of his deployment living outside of larger military installations, working with his infantry company in converted warehouses and police stations. Spending time as a humvee driver, machine gunner, detainee guard, radio transmission operator, and a little bit of everything in between, Stieber has a broad range of firsthand experiences within the Army and of daily Iraqi life.
Upon return from his deployment, Stieber's experiences lead him to apply as a conscientious objector. Nearly a year of investigation into the sincerity of his claim was conducted until he was unanimously approved by the Department of the Army Conscientious Objection Review Board. He spent the meantime studying and preparing his cross-country trip where he hopes to share his experiences while learning about alternatives to military involvement.Newly discharged from the Army, is on a pilgrimage to discover America while seeking and sharing alternatives for a peaceful world. Stieber claimed opposition to the Iraq war based on his Christian faith. In April, he won his appeal and earned his status as a conscientious objector. “Once I got out Iraq I got frustrated on a moral and a practical level by what I saw being done to the Iraqis,” said Stieber. “I thought the war was wrong and that we created more problems than we solved by fighting there.” His cross-country hike, which he calls the Contagious Love Experiment, is inspired by his love of the writings of Mohandas Gandhi and Jack Kerouac. More Information: 466-1192

Education as a Tool for Justice and Peace in the Middle East
Monday, July 13, 7:00 pm
Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave ( between Dove and Lark Streets) Albany, NY

Brother Jack Curran FSC PhD, the Director of Development at Bethlehem University in the Palestinian West Bank, will lecture about "Education as a Tool for Justice and Peace in the Middle East." Bethlehem University - the first university founded in the West Bank, a Catholic university with a 2/3 Muslim student body - offers an alternative to suicide bombings, targeted assassinations, walls, fences, settlements, soldiers, and home demolitions. Education is the path it provides towards a just and viable peace in the Middle East. Jack Curran was born and grew up in the Albany area. . This program is sponsored by the Palestinian Rights Committee, Capital District Interfaith Alliance of New York State, Commission on Peace and Justice-Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, Upper Hudson Peace Action, Women Against War and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Information 518-465-5425.

BNP

Monthly Meeting & Film: The End of America ( Based Naomi Wolf's book)
Thursday, June 11, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall
445 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Stop the Wars! Change the World! What is next for the peace movement locally and globally? How can we stop the wars? Let's Build A Peaceful, Green Economy... Help create our upcoming events and actions. The General meeting will be held from 7:00 to 7:30 . At 7:30 we will show the film End of America (74 minutes). "Based on the best-selling book by Naomi Wolf, THE END OF AMERICA details the ten steps a country takes when it slides toward Fascism. It takes a historical look at trends in once-functioning democracies that are being repeated in our country today." Information 466-1192

"IVAW co-founder Jimmy Massey and filmmaker Joe Stillman w/ "From Mills River to Babylon and Back..The Jimmy Massey Story"
Saturday, June 6, 8:00 - 10:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

This feature length documentary film by Joseph C Stillman, chronicles the life of Jimmy Massey, a former twelve-year career Marine who refused to continue killing in Iraq and examines the political, legal, moral, and human rights implications of the war. He witnessed—and in some cases participated in—the killing of innocent civilians. The Iraqis “were just doing their normal routines,” he says, “and they were getting frickin’ blasted for it.” He began to speak out to his superiors and was eventually diagnosed with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. He won an honorable discharge in December 2003. This film chronicles the life of Jimmy Massey and examines the political, legal, moral, and human rights implications of the war. It was shot in fourteen different states from 2005-2009. The documentary features Martin Sheen (actor/human rights activist), Ramsey Clark (former U.S. Attorney General), Cindy Sheehan (founder of the Gold Star Families), Congressman Dennis Kucinich , Father Roy Bourgeois (founder of the School of the Americas Watch), former UN weapons inspector Scott Ritter, Kelley Dougherty (Executive Director of Iraq Veterans Against the War), Col. (Ret.) Ann Wright, Dr. Ed Tick (post-traumatic stress disorder expert), and Congresswoman Maxine Waters. The film shows Jimmy's early life and the tragic death of his father, his decision to enlist in the marines due to economic conscript, illicit recruiting tactics that target single parent families by recruiters (Massey was a Marine recruiter), weapons of mass deception, depleted uranium use and its effects on soldiers and civilians, the administration's rush to war and taking back our democracy are some of the topics which are discussed in the documentary. Co-sponsored by BNP and The Sanctuary for Independent Media. Admission: by donation ($10 suggested, $5 student/low-income) More information: 466-1192

Solidarity Committee- Film: "F.T.A"
Saturday, May 23, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

Rethinking the War in Afghanistan
Thursday, May 7, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

"Rethink Afghanistan" is the topic of three short films recently produced by Brave New Foundation. Part One focuses on what military escalation will achieve in Afghanistan. Part Two looks at how the war could further destabilize a nuclear-armed Pakistan. Part Three focuses on the staggering costs of the war, which could easily exceed $1 trillion. The total length of these three films is about an hour. After the films, Joe Lombardo will lead us in a discussion of this timely and critical subject. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Capitalism Hits The Fan"
Saturday, April 18, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

BNP Film Night: "The Unforeseen"
Thursday, April 9, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

This 93 minute film, made in 2007 was directed by Laura Dunn. This film explores the price we are paying for endless development and greed. The message is even more disturbing when we consider that many of these developments are now virtually empty, while increasing numbers of American's are living in tents. Featuring interviews with Robert Redford, Willie Nelson, the iconic Texas Governor Ann Richards, environmentalist Wendell Berry and many others, THE UNFORESEEN is a powerful meditation on the American dream – on the destruction of the natural world as it falls victim to the cannibalizing forces of unchecked development. It is an intricate tale of personal hopes, victories and failures; and of debates over land, water and the public good. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

Solidarity Committee- Film: "The Devil's Miner"
Saturday, February 21, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

On January 28th, 2009, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will be hosting a recognition dinner to honor Scott Ritter for the relentless struggle he has pursued in the name of truth and justice. BNP will also celebrate its 6th birthday.
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 6 PM
Location: Delmar Reformed Church, just west of Four Corners, Delmar, NY
Food: Catered by The Hidden Cafe. Please indicate option: Vegetarian / Non-vegetarian / Whichever
Cost: $30. Reservations were due by January 11. If you would like to go but have not yet registered, email Leslie to find out if we can still accept your reservation. Checks to BNP, sent to Leslie Hudson, 125 LaGrange Lane, Feura Bush, NY 12067. Additional contributions for a scholarship fund for the evening are welcome. Email Contact: cathudson@att.net.
If anyone would like to contribute something beyond the $30.00 ticket price, we can use the funds for a scholarship fund for the evening. Email Leslie for further information: cathudson@att.net

Election Forum and Discussion
Thursday, November 6, 7:00 - 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall, Rm. 107 (PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN LOCATION OF THIS EVENT)
445 Delaware Ave, Delmar , Delmar

We will have a discussion of the election results, the economic situation, the peace movement, and the future of our country. Was the vote counted accurately?... What is the make up of the newly elected House and senate? ... How will the candidates just elected deal with the following issues: war in Iraq and Afghanistan, health care, the bailout, rising unemployment, climate change, peak oil, loss of civil liberties?...
There will be an open mic session at the end of the discussion. Bring your poetry, songs, and your ideas for future organizing. Should we organize to go to Washington for the inauguration? Do we need to have a local march to focus on the need to bring all of our troops home now? Have our past tactics been effective and how do we need to change to be more effective with the new administration? How can we best promote peace in the coming months? How will the current economic situation affect our organizing and what should our priorities be now? Join us in this important discussion. See you there. More information 466-1192.

Camilo Mejía: The Private Rebellion of a Staff Sergeant
Tuesday, October 28, 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

After serving in the Army for nearly nine years, Staff Sergeant Camilo Mejía was the first known Iraq veteran to refuse to fight when he applied for discharge from the army as a conscientious objector, citing moral concerns about the war and occupation. The principled stand described in his memoir, “Road From ar Ramadi: The Private Rebellion of Staff Sargeant Camilo Mejia” (just published on Haymarket Books), helped rally the growing opposition and embolden other soldiers. He was eventually convicted of desertion by a military court and sentenced to a year in prison, prompting Amnesty International to declare him a prisoner of conscience. BNP is co-sponsoring this film with the Sanctuary for Independent Media. More information: 466-1192

CONFERENCE - How To Prevent War On Iran AND On The U.S. Constitution

Saturday, October 18, 2008
9:00 am (sharp) to 5:00 pm
Berkshire Community College
Directions to Berkshire Community College
Susan B. Anthony Building, Pittsfield, MA

Featured Speakers: Scott Ritter, Joseph Gerson, Brian Corr and Joe Lombardo. Ritter was a chief UN weapons inspector who correctly predicted there would be no weapons of mass destruction found in Iraq. In both August and September he will travel to Iran. On another occasion before the conference, he will meet with several Nobel Peace Prize winners on the subject of avoiding war with Iran, a topic on which he has written a book, Target Iran. He has also written: Waging Peace - The Art of War for the Antiwar Movement, a fascinating and challenging account of how techniques used by the military can instead be used in the pursuit of peace. Gerson is Program Director for the American Friends Service Committee in Cambridge, MA. He has written numerous books on global affairs and has traveled widely in the Middle East and elsewhere. He is familiar with Ritter's sentiments and likewise aspires to the goals of warding off war with Iran and creating a more effective peace movement able to induce our government to abide by the Constitution, honor the truth and serve the people. However, his many years of experience working with AFSC have led him to somewhat different views on strategies and tactics from those of Ritter. For More Information: Contact George Desnoyers: Tel. 413-443-4298 e-mail: gdesnoye@berkshire.rr.com Sponsored by Global Issues Resource Organization (GIRO) of BCC, Berkshire Citizens for Peace and Justice, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Registration from 8:30 am - 9: 00 am. Admission: $10.00, Seniors $8.00, Students $5.00

Solidarity Committee- Film: "Hacking Democracy"
Saturday, October 18, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee continues its 2008-2009 film series with a showing of "Hacking Democracy" (2007, 81 minutes). This HBO documentary provides a modern-day David and Goliath story—a tenacious grandmother from Seattle and a band of citizen-activists who take on the voting machine corporations and government officials who subvert democracy at the polls. Examining the record in recent elections, "Hacking Democracy" uncovers incendiary evidence from the trash cans of Texas to the ballot boxes of Ohio, thereby exposing secrecy, votes in the trash, hackable software, and election fraud. As Americans prepare to cast their ballots once again this November, it provides a timely reminder of the fragility of democracy. The film-showing—cosponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action—will take place at a new location: the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). More information: 466-1192 Although we initially planned for the film screening to start at 7:00 PM, an article in "Solidarity Notes" reported it as beginning at 7:30 PM. Therefore, we have revised this notice to indicate a starting time of 7:30 PM.

BNP Film Night: Commander 'N Thief
Thursday, October 2, 6: 45- 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Greg Palast, introduces the documentary and also provides staggering information in the body of the film about the RNC’s purposeful and targeted strategies for disenfranchising millions of minority voters across the United States, including African-American soldiers serving in Iraq.
The outcome of the election is that the wrong candidate was sworn in as President of the United States. The evidence presented in this documentary, “Commander ‘N Thief,” should be seen as a warning that our democracy is now in peril and that ordinary citizens must act quickly and forcefully to restore honesty, transparency and verifiability to the
American electoral system. More information 466-1192.

Calling All Veterans!
Friday, October 3, 7-9pm
Friends Meeting House
727 Madison Avenue, Albany

Please join us for a meeting of veterans and veteran supporters who are interested in coming together to discuss forming a local veterans support network and a Capital District chapter of Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW). Adrienne Kinne, member of the IVAW Board of Directors, will join our meeting to help us understand how to go about forming an IVAW chapter in Albany and tell us more about the benefits of doing so. At this meeting we'll also discuss the possibility of holding a public forum for all veterans, to help educate veterans about the benefits due to them as a result of their service. Come one, come all--and invite your friends. It's time for veterans in the Capital District to unite! For more information call Jason or Elaine, 518-439-8262.

NEPAJAC Planning Meeting
Sunday, October 5, 3 - 5 pm
Albany Public Library, 2nd Floor Conference Room
161 Washington Avenue, NY

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC) planning meeting. This will be a gathering of several regional peace and justice organizations to plan future peace and justice in the Capital Region. We will discuss: the October 11 Stop the Wars events, organizing of a local IVAw chapter, the upcoming conference at Berkshire Community College, events planned for after the elections, the No Bush Bailout event(s) and more. Join us. Information call Joe at : 439-1968.

Film "Body of War" and presentation by media activist Dee Dee Halleck
Friday, September 12, 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

Body of War is an intimate and transformational feature documentary about the true face of war today. Meet Tomas Young, 25 years old, paralyzed from a bullet to his spine - wounded after serving in Iraq for less than a week. Body of War is Tomas' coming home story as he evolves into a new person, coming to terms with his disability and finding his own unique and passionate voice against the war. The film is produced and directed by Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro, and features two original songs by Eddie Vedder. Body of War is a naked and honest portrayal of what it's like inside the body, heart and soul of this extraordinary and heroic young man.Legendary community media activist Dee Dee Halleck, who played a major role in bringing this story to film, will speak after the screening. BNP is co-sponsoring this film with the Sanctuary for Independent Media. More information: 466-1192

BNP Film Night: In Debt We Trust -America Before the Bubble Bursts
Thursday, September 4, 6: 45- 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Film presentation of: "In Debt We Trust" ( 98 minutes), directed by Danny Schechter. "The money we owe and the bill that's coming due". The film explores the extent of credit card debt, and the methods the credit card companies use to encourage an increasing debt load by everyone from students to the elderly. This film also takes an in depth look at the connection between Congress, President Bush and the credit card industry. Join us. More information 466-1192.

Friday August 22, 2008 from 4:30-6pm
March from Masjid As-Salam Mosque, 276 Central Ave., to Washington Avenue Armory followed by a vigil at the Armory.

The Muslim Solidarity Committee invites you to join us for this march and vigil remembering the arrests of these two Muslim men from our community after a long and costly “sting operation” waged by the Albany Field Office of the FBI.

One of the important visual effects of the march is the show of solidarity by diverse community organizations that work for peace and justice. We hope that you will carry a sign or banner proudly displaying the name of your organization (we have the sign made for your organization from last year). If you want to support this effort but can't send a representative on August 22nd, would you be willing to have someone else carry the sign with the name of your group? This would help us to visually demonstrate the wide range of community support for our Muslim neighbors.

MUSLIM INNOCENCE PROJECT CONFERENCE
Saturday, August 23,
1-5 PM, ALBANY , NY ,ALBANY LAW SCHOOL, Matthew Bender Room.

LYNNE STEWART will speak about her experiences as an attorney and then a defendant unfairly charged and convicted for standing up for her client in the proudest legal tradition. SEAN MAHAR, Attorney for SYED HASHMI and ABU YOUSEF, Cleric, will speak about that case. www.freefahad.com KATHERINE HUGHES, Writer, will speak about the case of DR. RAFIL DHAFIR. www.dhafirtrial.net STEPHEN DOWNS, One of the attorneys for YASSIN AREF, and DR. SHAMSHAD AHMAD, President of the Masjid As-Salam Mosque, will speak about the AREF/HOSSAIN case. www.yassinaref.com and www.nepajac.org/Aref&Hossain.htm

After these presentations, we will have workshops on how to identify these cases and put together a nationwide database; how to reach out to the public, the media and other groups; and generally how to move forward from here. For more information, e-mail Kathy Manley at mkathy1@hotmail.com

Nurturing Peace: The 10th Anniversary, Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference
Friday & Saturday, August 15 & 16, 2008
National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY

The 10th Anniversary, Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference. Featuring: Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, Fr. Roy Bourgeois, M.M. Colonel (ret.) Ann Wright. Workshops, Music, Lunch and more. National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY For complete conference information see www.kateripeaceconference.org Cost: Friday Evening, August 15th, 2008 Free Will Offering; Saturday, August 16th, 2008, Students and Seniors $10.00, Adults - $15.00 through $40.00. High School students free.

Col. (ret.) Ann Wright, author of Dissent: Voices of Conscience
Tuesday, August 12, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Albany Public Library
161 Washington Avenue, NY

Ann Wright will speak at the Albany Public Library while she is in the Capital Region for the Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference. Ann Wright's new book, Dissent: Voices of Conscience, profiles of those in government and active-duty military who have spoken out, leaked documents, resigned, or refused to deploy to protest the war in Iraq. The American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression named Dissent their book of the month for February 2008. Daniel Ellsberg wrote the foreword. "This … illuminating and remarkably impressive … book should be leaked into the government. … This book could awaken … officials to withdraw their complicity and … tell the truth to [the public]. This country will not escape further human, legal, and moral catastrophes, or preserve itself as a democratic, constitutional republic, if that does not happen. If you're at all like me, you will have a whole set of new heroes when you finish reading this. …Dissent: Voices of Conscience could change your life." — from the Foreword, by Daniel Ellsberg. Please see www.voicesofconscience.com for further information. BNP contact: 466-1192..

Reading of John Hersey's "Hiroshima"
Wednesday, August 6, 2008, 11:00 - 3:00 pm
West Capital Park Park (S. Swan Street steps), Albany, NY

On August 6, 1945 the United States of America used the atomic bomb for the first time on the city of Hiroshima, Japan, destroying the city; on August 9, the United States used the atomic bomb again on Nagasaki, Japan. Over 200,000 people died immediately in the two bombings and over a hundred thousand more died in the following decades as a result of the effects of the radiation.
To remember those bombings and to commemorate the victims, local citizens will be gathering to read John Hersey’s Hiroshima. Seating will be on the grass, folding chairs or blankets are suggested. The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in reading can sign up to participate when they arrive, or by calling Dan Wilcox, 482-0262, dwlcx@earthlink.net.
Hiroshima was first published in the New Yorker in 1946; it tells the story of the bombing on August 6, 1945 by following the story of six of the survivors. The book version has been in print since 1946.

John Amidon: The Middle East and a Closer Look at Hezbollah and Hamas
Thursday, August 7, 7:00 -8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Welcome Picnic for Iraqi Refugees
Saturday, July 19, 1:30 - 5:30 (rain or shine!)
Islamic Center of the Capital District,
21 Lansing Rd. N., Schenectady, 12204
(off Central Ave., just past Ethan Allen on the right, going west)

3rd Annual Picnic for Peace, Grafton State Park
Sunday, July 13, 9:00 AM till Dusk
Grafton State Park, Grafton MY

4th and Fireworks Festival
Friday, July 4, Noon - 10:00 pm
Empire State Plaza
Albany

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will have a booth and will be selling our usual assortment of t-shirts, books, bumper stickers and buttons. NEPAJAC will be leafleting on issues such as : Ending the War on Iraq, No war with Iran, Climate Change, Single Payer Health Care and more. Wendy Dwyer will be selling END THE WAR! yard signs. We invite Capital Region groups that advocate for Peace and Justice, to join us and are hoping there will be some street theater. This is an event that draws 20,000 or more people. Let's all be there to remind them that: War is Not the Answer!! Information: 391-2830.

BNP Film Night: Orwell Rolls in His Grave
Thursday, July 3, 6: 45- 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Film presentation of: Orwell Rolls in His Grave. ( 103 minutes) From BBC: "If Fahrenheit 9/11 lit a match under the Bush administration, this homemade documentary about the manipulation of the media by America's ruling elites solemnly stokes the resulting flames of angry discontent. Filmmaker Robert Kane Pappas's long-winded yet terrifyingly bleak Orwell Rolls In His Grave argues that the mainstream American media are no longer the voice of American freedom. Instead, they're part of a repressive political power structure that has uncanny parallels with the dystopian world of George Orwell's novel 1984... Exploding the myth of the American media's liberal bias, the film asks tough questions: why, in March 2003, did 51% of Americans believe that Saddam Hussein was personally responsible for 9/11? Why did CBS hurriedly drop a BBC-led story about electoral irregularities in Florida after the subject of the allegations - Governor Jeb Bush - denied it was true?..." Join us. More information 391-2830.

NEPAJAC : Summer Peace Events Planning Meeting
Monday, June 30, 6:30 -8:30 pm
Albany Public Library
161 Washington Avenue, NY

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition Meeting: What's Next and how can we build on the success of our March 22 Walk for Peace and the Conference? One of the greatest strengths of our recent events has been that members of the many peace and justice organizations in the Capital Region, worked together to create these events. Join us as we discuss what we would like to do next to STOP THE WAR!! Join us. More information 391-2830.

June 21 -22, Clearwater Festival: Great Hudson River Revival. Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will be tabling again this year at the Clearwater Festival at Croton-on-Hudson.

Monday, June 9, 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Bethlehem Vigil
Four Corners Intersection of Kenwood and Delaware Avenues, Delmar

Iran and The Threat of War: Speaker- Leila Zand, Iran Program Director for the Fellowship of Reconciliation & Film- “Bam 6.6 Humanity Doesn’t Have Borders”

Thursday, June 5, 6: 45- 8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Film Showing: “Bam 6.6 Humanity Doesn’t Have Borders”which explores the humanity of the Iranian people through the prism of the devastating 2003 earthquake that struck at the heart of Bam, an ancient Iranian village. After the film, Leila Zand, Iran Program Director for the Fellowship Of Reconciliation, will speak about the threat of war with Iran. For more information: 518-439-1968

Sharmeen Obaid-Chenoy will discuss her more recent projects and show her new film "The Lost Generation" (2008)" . At 27 she is the youngest ever nominee for the Broadcast Journalist of the Year Award. Five of Obaid-Chinoy's films concern her native Pakistan, but she has also made documentaries about women in Saudi Arabia, Native American women in Canada, illegal abortions in the Philippines, Muslims in Sweden and the ill-treatment of Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa. Her portfolio is a global tour of gender oppression and social injustice." Excerpt from the Guardian, June 4, 2007 The photo is from "The Lost Generation" (2008)" Co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the Sanctuary for Independent Media. More information: 439-8262

10th Annual May Day Celebration
Thursday, May 1, 5:00 - 9:00 pm
Prospect Park, Congress St. (Route 2) just east of Troy
Troy, NY
blic Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

The 10th Annual Capital District May Day Celebration of International Workers Day. This year’s theme is “Single Payer Heath Care.” Among the speakers are: Martha Livingston, Ph.D., Associate Professor at SUNY Old Westbury who gives courses on US healthcare and comparative healthcare systems, and has lectured widely on healthcare reform; and Dr. Andy Coates, Secretary of the local chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP), member of the national board of PNHP and a local activist for peace and healthcare reform. Other speakers and entertainment to be announced; in addition there will be short video screenings and tabling by local organizations. The event is free & open to the public; refreshments will be available. TheHudson-Mohawk May Day Committee includes members from the Troy Area Labor Council, Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, The Eighth Step, New York Labor History Association, the Albany Chapter of United University Professors, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, the Upstate New York International Workers of the World, area labor unions and other activists. The Committee has planned educational and entertaining events on Labor history and current social justice issues held on May 1 throughout the Capital District for the last ten years. May Day is the International Workers’ Holiday celebrated in most industrial countries in the world. It began in the United States in the 19th Century, growing out of the struggle for the 8- hour work day and the Chicago Haymarket Massacre in 1886. For more information about the May Day 2008 Celebration contact Dan Wilcox, 518-482-0262, email: dwlcx@earthlink.net; or Art Fleischner, 518- 273-2759, email: alad8@verizon.net or go to the Hudson-Mohawk May Day Committee website.

Film Night: Mother Jones: American's Most Dangerous Woman & Made in LA
Thursday, May 1 , 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Mother Jones: America's Most Dangerous Woman (2007, 24 minutes) is a documentary about Mary Harris Jones, an amazing labor organizer of the early 1900's . The documentary shows how Mother Jones' organizing career influenced the history of early 20th century United States. Quote from Mother Jones: "I asked a man in prison once how he happened to be there, and he said he had stolen a loaf of bread. I told him if he had stolen a railroad, he'd be a U.S. Senator." Made in L.A. (2007, 70 minutes) jumps forward a century to follow the remarkable story of three Latina immigrants working in Los Angeles garment sweatshops as they embark on a three-year odyssey to win basic labor rights from a trendy clothing retailer. Variety called it "a rousing true story of solidarity, perseverance, and triumph." In recognition of May Day, the International Workers’ Holiday. A discussion will follow the films. More information 391-2830.

NEPAJAC : Peace and Sustainability Conference Highlights & Review
Monday, April 28 , 7:00 -8:45 pm
Albany Public Library, 1st Floor Auditorium
161 Washington Avenue, NY

NEPAJAC Meeting. If you missed the conference and would like to find out more about it and enjoy some of the highlights, or if you did attend and would like to discuss and provide feedback, please join us. Steve Wickham will review his Modern Day Pamphleteering workshop and talk with us about the carbon offset that we have purchased. We may have time to watch the 15 minute video that was highly acclaimed by attendees of the Sanctuary for Independent media workshop. Hopefully people who took photos or recorded events will have some of these recordings to share as well. We will take some time to review what went well at the conference and how we could improve. The final topic of our meeting will be: What's Next and how can we build on the success of our March 22 Walk for Peace and the Conference? One of the greatest strengths of the event was that members of most of the peace and justice organizations in the Capital Region worked together to create a conference that covered a variety of issues and gave the participants options. Join us as we discuss what we would like to do next to STOP THE WAR!! ( Photo shown was taken at the April 12 Conference of Cindy Sheehan, Jason Peterson, Veteran for Peace, and members of the Iraq Veterans Against the War, attending the conference.) More information 391-2830.

Food Not Bombs co-founder Keith McHenry
Thursday, April 17 , 7:30 pm
Humanities Building, Rm. 132
SUNY Albany

Food Not Bombs co-founder Keith McHenry will give a presentation about the history of the movement and the many things it has accomplished around the world. He will show a dvd about his work in Africa and talk about how to start a Food Not Bombs group. Keith has spent over 500 days in jail for feeding the hungry. Amnesty International declared him a "Prisoner of Conscience" and worked for his unconditional release. Today Food Not Bombs is a global movement sharing vegetarian food with the hungry and working for peace and social justice. Keith has visited Food Not Bombs groups in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, Australia and the Middle East and will share his experiences of cooking and feeding the hungry. BNP is a co-sponsor.

Thursday, March 20, 7:00 pm
Unitarian Universalist Society
405 Washington Ave, Albany, downstairs, Room B3-B4

5th Anniversary March Against the War: Remembering the Fallen
Saturday, March 22,1:30 pm
March to begin at West Capital Park
Albany
This march for peace highlighted the following demands:

1. Support the Troops, Bring Them Home Now
2. Reparations for the Iraqi People
3. Money for Jobs, Health Care, Education, Community Needs, Not Occupation
4. Full Benefits for Returning Veterans
5. Restore Constitutional Government
6. Stop the Torture
7. No War with Iran

Endorsed by: Students Peace Action Network, Students for Workers Rights, Woman Against War, Veterans for Peace, Interfaith Alliance for Peace, First Unitarian Universalist Society of America in Albany, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and more. Sponsored by Northeast Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC). More Information: 518 439-1968 or 518 391-2830

Film and Discussion: In the Valley of Elah
Sunday, March 16, 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall
455 Delaware Ave, Delmar

In the Valley of Elah (100 minutes) is a film about veterans returning from Iraq. The story is based on actual events and reveals the real price that our veterans pay for giving up a piece of their humanity to the war machine. Following the film will be a discussion . Phyllis Alberici of the New York State Defenders Association will discuss the legal issues common to many Iraq veterans. Cost: Free More Information: 391-2830

Film and Discussion: Maxed Out
Thursday, March 6, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar
Maxed Out ( 87 minutes, January 2006) takes viewers on a journey deep inside the American style of debt, where things seem fine as long as the minimum monthly payment arrives on time. With coverage that spans from small American towns all the way to the White House, the film shows how the modern financial industry really works, explains the true definition of "preferred customer" and tells us why the poor are getting poorer while the rich keep getting richer. Hilarious, shocking and incisive, Maxed Out paints a picture of a national nightmare which is all too real for most of us. Speaker to be announced. "The size of our problem out there is very large. I regret to say that the word billion does not encompass the nature of the problem." -Alan Greenspan. Cost: Free More Information: (518)391-2830

The Situation in Iran-
Film: “Bam 6.6 Humanity Doesn’t Have Borders” and Speakers: Scott Ritter, Fatemeh Keshavarz, Jahangir Golestan-Parast

Saturday, March 8, at 2 PM
Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Ave., Albany , NY 12206

Film Showing: “Bam 6.6 Humanity Doesn’t Have Borders” which explores the humanity of the Iranian people through the prism of the devastating 2003 earthquake that struck at the heart of Bam, an ancient Iranian village. Followed by a panel discussion on the situation in Iran. Speakers: Scott Ritter: former chief UN weapons inspector in Iraq and prominent critic of the US war on Iraq and threats towards Iran. Fatemeh Keshavarz: Iranian author of the book; Jasmine and Stars, reading more than Lollita in Tehran. Jahangir Golestan-Parast: Director of the film; Bam 6.6 Humanity Doesn’t Have Borders
Sponsored by: Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace – www.bethlehemforpea ce.org, Fellowship Of Reconciliation – www.forusa.org, Women Against War – www.womenagainstwar .org, US Tour of Duty - www.ustourofduty. org
For more information: 518-439-1968

Benefit Concert for Iraq Veterans Against the War: Winter Soldier Project
Saturday, March 1 , 7:00 pm
Northern Lights, 1208 Route 146, Clifton Park

A concert to raise funds for Iraq Veterans Against the War's project "Winter Soldier: Iraq and Afghanistan" which will take place in Washington DC March on 13 to 16, 2008. Veteran and civilian survivors of the modern conflicts in both countries will give public testimony and share the eyewitness stories "... to confront the policy makers with the unvarnished truth about what they saw and did in Iraq." Mother Mcrees, a funk rock jam band from Albany NY played at the Sep 29th Syracuse Peace Rally, and were so impressed by the IVAW members that they wanted to help out further. They gathered three other bands; Alta Mira from Clifton Park, Deep Chemistry from Orange County, and Cooper Union from Albany, to put on a benefit show at the club Northern Lights. Cost: $8 advance tickets, $10 at the door. Contact: 518 765-4386, or via the email address : info4co@yahoo.com . Sponsored by: Veterans for Peace, Iraq Veterans Against the War.

Vietnam Veteran Richard Boes
Monday, February 25, 6:30 pm -8:00 pm
Java Jazz Cafe, 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Vietnam Veteran Richard Boes will read from his book: The Last Dead Soldier Left Alive. For more information call Java Jazz at 439-1727.

Anniversary Vigil For Peace
Friday, February 15, 6:00 pm
4-Corners ( Kenawood and Delaware Avenues), Delmar

WE WILL GATHER TO DEMAND A PROMPT END TO THE WAR IN A SOLEMN CANDLE-LIGHT PROCESSION TO THE BETHLEHEM TOWN HALL.Bring candles or flashlights. Immediately following the procession we will show a 56 minute film “Think Peace: Portrait of a 21st Century Movement” in the Fellowship Hall of the Delmar Reformed Church, which is on Delaware Avenue immediately past the four Corners. "We urge all people who want peace to join us at the Four Corners in Delmar (Delaware and Kenwood) at 6 PM on Friday, February 15th, 2008. Let's renew our commitment to peace and once again illuminate the winter sky with the flame of peace." -Joe Lombardo

Iran: Personal Experiences, Reflections, and Suggestions for Action
Thursday, February 7, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

People-to-People Mission to Iran. Barbara Spring and Priscilla Fairbank traveled to Iran in December 2007 with Fellowship of Reconciliation (www.forusa.org) as part of a citizen diplomacy effort. They will share their experiences, photos, and discuss issues they encountered. Come with your questions and see if their experiences match your own impressions.. Cost: Free More Information: 391-2830

Film and Discussion: Redacted
Friday, February 1 and Saturday, February 2, 8:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

There will be audience discussions following each screening of the film: Friday night--with Dr. Edward Tick (author of the groundbreaking book "War and the Soul,and founder of Soldier's Heart, practicing psychotherapist specializing in veterans with PTSD) and Dan Black, Iraq Veterans Against the War. Saturday night--with Dan Black, Iraq Veterans Against the War.

De Palma won the Silver Lion for Best Director at the 2007 Venice Film Festival for this film, a fictional story inspired by true events. Redacted is a unique cinematic experience that pushes viewers to radically reconsider the filters through which we see and accept events in our world, the power of the mediated image and how presentation and composition influence our ideas and beliefs.Centered around a small group of American soldiers stationed at a checkpoint in Iraq, Redacted alternates points of view, balancing the experiences of these young men under duress and members of the media with those of the local Iraqi people, illuminating how each have been deeply affected by the current conflict and their encounters with each other. Sponsored by Sanctuary for Independent Media and co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Tickets are $5-$10. Call (518) 272-2390, email info@MediaSanctuary .org, or visit www.MediaSanctuary. org for directions and more information.

Film : War Made Easy
Saturday, January 26, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Social Justice Center
33 Central Avenue, Albany NY

War Made Easy: How Presidents & Pundits Keep Spinning Us to Death (2007, dirs. Loretta Alper and Jeremy Earp, 72 mins., http://www.warmadeeasythemovie.org/ ) A new documentary featuring Norman Solomon and narrated by Sean Penn, chronicling how propaganda has been used to sell wars to the public. Sponsored by The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District and co-sponsored by BNP and Peace Action. Cost: Free

Film and Discussion: SiCKO
Thursday, January 3, 6:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Michael Moore's latest documentary compares the US healthcare system to the free universal health coverage in Canada, England, France and Cuba. Following the film, Dr. Andrew Coates, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace member, local physician and secretary of the Capital District Chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program http://www.pnhp.org/, will tell us more about Single Payer Healthcare and lead a discussion on this very critical issue. More Information: ( 518) 391-2830

"SiCKO: 18,000 Americans will die this year simply because they're uninsured. According to the Institute of Medicine, "lack of health insurance causes roughly 18,000 unnecessary deaths every year in the United States. Although America leads the world in spending on health care, it is the only wealthy, industrialized nation that does not ensure that all citizens have coverage." Insuring America's Health: Principles and Recommendations, Institute of Medicine, January 2004.http://www.iom.edu/?id=19175"

Annual Crossgates Mall Walk
Thursday , December 20, 5:15 pm -7:00 pm
Crossgates Mall, Albany

Poetry Night: Special Guest Larry Winters and An Open Mike
Thursday, December 6, 7:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Larry Winters, a former US Marine, willl read from his poetry. Some of you may remember Larry from the 9th Annual Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference this past summer. Larry did a workshop at the Conference on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dan Wilcox will host this event and will give us all a chance to read our own poetry with an open mike session. Refreshments provided. Co-sponsored by Bethlehem NEighbors for PEace and Veterans for Peace. Join us. Information: 518 391-2830.

Film: Everything's Cool
Monday, November 19, 7:00 pm
Friends Meeting House
727 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY

Everything’s Cool is a “toxic comedy” about the most dangerous chasm ever to emerge between scientific understanding and political action – Global Warming. The good news: America finally gets global warming; the chasm is closing and the debate is over. The bad news: the United States, the country that will determine the fate of the globe, must transform its fossil fuel based economy fast (like in a minute). While the industry funded naysayers sing what just might be their swan song of scientific doubt and deception, a group of self-appointed global warming messengers are on a life or death quest to find the iconic image, proper language, and points of leverage that will help the public go from understanding the urgency of the problem to creating the political will necessary to push for a new energy economy. Hold on -- this is bigger than changing your light bulbs. Co-sponsored by Pine Hills Neighbors for Peace and BNP.

War Crimes (Part of the Great Decisions series of international presentations)
Tuesday, November 20, 6:00 pm
Albany Law School , West Wing Classroom (W212)
80 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY

The speaker will be Maria Grahn-Farley, an expert in international law with a specialty in war crimes, especially as they involve children and especially child soldiers both as perpetrators and as victims. Refreshments will be served. This program co-sponsored by the International Center of the Capital Region and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Donations accepted.

Film: Meeting Resistance
Friday, November 16, 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

“Meeting Resistance” is set in the streets, alleyways and ubiquitous teashops of the Adhamiya neighborhood of Baghdad. It enters the physical and psychological heart of the "insurgency" against the American occupation. Photojournalists/directors Steve Connors and Molly Bingham spent ten-months among the insurgents there to create this exclusive, unique, and at once horrifying, compelling and insightful film about their lives, motivation, and goals. “Meeting Resistance” focuses on eight "insurgents," each with his or her own tale and reasons for opposing the American-led occupation, yet all people who within days of the fall of Baghdad were arranging themselves into resistance cells, finding the money and weapons to fight against the American military. The film witnesses how they began to organize themselves, reveals why they have decided to violently oppose the occupation of the country, and hears in their words the underlying ideological foundations to their fight and how and why those have changed over time. “Meeting Resistance” is a fascinating journey through a tumultuous period with diverse members of the Iraqi resistance. Their personal stories as well as their ideological ones are at once dramatic, eye-opening, and concerning - and they challenge the notion that those opposing the occupation are simply "dead enders," "common criminals," "Al-Qaeda operatives" and "die-hard Ba'athis." The directors’ unsurpassed access and visually stunning cinematography makes this film a one-of-a-kind; essential viewing for audiences around the world concerned with a deeper understanding of the current situation in Iraq, and with the human condition of resistance. Co-sponsored by BNP, Woman Against War and Sanctuary for Independent Media.

UFPJ March: END THE WAR NOW
Saturday, October 27, 2007
New York City

National mobilization to end the War in Iraq. 2 buses are reserved for Albany area activists. Bus leaving East Garage (Madison and Eagle Street) in Albany at 7:30 am. Join thousands from all over New York and northern New Jersey in a massive march and rally to end the war! Assemble at 12 noon on Broadway, south of 23rd Street . March at 1:00pm down Broadway to Foley Square . We will leave NYC for the return to Albany at about 5 pm. OUR 2 RESERVED BUSES ARE NOW FULL

Dahr Jamail
Saturday, October 20, 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy

Dahr Jamail is an independent journalist who has covered the Middle East for more than four years. He has reported extensively from inside Iraq for eight months, and has also has reported from Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan. Jamail writes for the Inter Press Service, The Asia Times, and many other outlets. His reports have been published in The Nation, The Sunday Herald, The Guardian, Foreign Policy in Focus, and The Independent, among other publications. On radio as well as television, Jamail has reported for Democracy Now!, and numerous other stations around the globe. Jamail is also special correspondent for “Flashpoints” (KPFK Radio/Pacifica). He lives in California. Co-sponsored by Sanctuary for Independent Media, BNP and Women Against War. Information: (518) 272-2390.

Army of None Project
Wednesday, October 17, 7:00 - 9:30 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy

The Army of None Project to counter military recruitment, end war and build a better world features Aimee Allison and David Solnit. They are traveling across the United States to share their knowledge and experience with the counter recruitment movement, one of the fastest growing, most strategic forms of community organizing. The military recruitment complex insinuates itself into the daily lives of children and youth in ways of which most people are not aware. Millions of dollars are poured into advanced marketing strategies; recruiters walk freely into classrooms with false promises of a way out of poverty. The Army of None Project argues that childhood should be free of military influence and the constant pressure to enlist. This is not just a way to protect our most valuable national resource--children; it is an effective way to take local action to provide equal opportunity and youth leadership training for those who bear the burden of fighting in Iraq and beyond. Co-sponsored by Sanctuary for Independent Media. BNP and Women Against War.

Reese Erlich - Author of The Iran Agenda: The Real Story of U.S. Policy and the Middle East Crisis"
Thursday, October 11, 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Sanctuary for Independent Media
3361 6th Avenue, Troy

Will the United States and Iran find themselves at war? In "The Iran Agenda: The Real Story of U.S. Policy and the Middle East Crisis" (PoliPointPress, 2007), author and journalist Reese Erlich shows how the U.S. government is planning to subvert the Iranian government and lie about it to the American people. He traces the troubled history between the two countries that has led to the current showdown over nuclear technology and he reports from Iran and northern Iraq to uncover details of how the U.S. has funded ethnic minorities to carry out guerrilla raids and terrorist bombings inside Iran. In his previous book, the best-selling "Target Iraq: What the News Media Didn''t Tell You" (co-authored with Norman Solomon), Erlich presciently exposed the harsh realities and consequences of the run-up to the Iraq War and the media’s failure to present the full spectrum of facts to the public. Reese Erlic has been a working journalist for 40 years--starting as a staff writer and research editor for Ramparts, an investigative reporting magazine published in San Francisco from 1963 to 1975. Today he works as a freelance reporter, regularly filing print and broadcast stories for the Canadian and Australian Broadcasting Corporations, Radio Deutche Welle and National Public Radio. His articles appear in the San Francisco Chronicle, St. Petersburg Times and the Dallas Morning News. His television documentaries have aired on PBS stations nationwide. Produced by the Iran Working Group of Upper Hudson Peace Action and co-sponsored by Sanctuary for Independent Media, Women Against War amd BNP. 6 PM potluck, 7 PM talk. For more information: (518) 272-2390 or info@TheSanctuaryforIndependentMedia.org

BNP Discussion
Monday, October 15, 6:00 pm
Java Jazz Cafe, 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Join friends and neighbors for a discussion of current events.

Dahlia Wasfi and Jimmy Massey
Monday, October 1 , 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Avenue, Albany

Dahlia Wasfi, a physician and activist who has returned to Iraq several times and Jimmy Massey a founding member of Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW) will speak on the war in Iraq.. Sponsored by BNP, Physicians for Social Responsibility( Capital District), Upper Hudson Peace Action For more information: 518-391-2830

BNP Film Night- Meeting Face to Face – the Iraq-US Labor Solidarity Tour
Thursday, October 4 , 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Meeting Face to Face (27 minute documentary) chronicles the 2005 Iraq-U.S. Labor Solidarity Tour sponsored by U.S. Labor Against the War. The tour follows six Iraqi labor leaders as they meet with union members and other Americans in twenty-five cities throughout the United States. Speaking to American audiences for the first time, Iraqis explain why the primary condition for a peaceful resolution in Iraq is ending the U.S. occupation and why an independent labor movement is crucial in creating a democratic society.The film was produced by Jonathan Levin and Michael Zweig of the Center for the Study of Working Class Life. After the film, local labor leaders Jon Flanders and Doug Bullock will lead us in a discussion. Doug and Jon will talk with us about recent events in Iraq and the current role of labor. For more information: 518-439-1968.

Bring the Troops Home Now:Rally and March, Syracuse, NY
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Syracuse, NY
11:30 am - 7:00 pm

Unconditional Withdrawal
Full Health Benefits For Returning Veterans Reparations to the Iraqi people
Money for Community Jobs, Education and Needs, Not Occupation.
Official Event Website

Presented by: Iraq Veterans Against the War-Ft. Drum, Syracuse Peace Council, and The Upstate NY Antiwar Network.

BNP Film Night- A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash Thursday, September 6, 6:45 - 9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This 90 minute documentary was produced and directed by award-winning European journalists and filmmakers Basil Gelpke and Ray McCormack. It tells the story of how our addiction to oil puts us on a collision course with geology. Compelling, intelligent, and highly entertaining, the film visits with the world’s top experts and comes to a startling, but logical conclusion – our industrial society, built on cheap and readily available oil, must be completely redesigned. Join us for a discussion after the film. For more information: 518-391-2830

Muslim Solidarity March Wednesday, August 15, 4:00- 6:00
from the Mosque on Central Avenue (starting at 4:30 ) to a rally at the Armory

This event commemorates the third anniversary of the arrests of Yussin Aref and Mohammed Hossain who were entrapped by an FBI sting and persecuted in the terrorist scare emanating from the highest levels of our government. The March and Vigil will start at 275 Central Ave, the Masjid As-Salam mosque, at 4pm. We will march down Central Ave to the corner of Lark St at the old Washington Avenue Armory where a Vigil will take place until 6 pm.

Hope and Resistance Transforming the Course of History
Friday evening, August 17 and Saturday, August 18, 2007 at the National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine in Fonda, NY.

Website for the Conference . The 9th annual Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference, "Hope and Resistance - Transforming the Course of History". Please join us in this Interfaith conference, featuring Stephen Eric Bronner and Fr. Louis Vitale OFM at the National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine in Fonda, NY. All are welcome!

4th Annual BNP Picnic Sunday, August 12, 3 pm till Dusk
Elm Avenue Park , Delmar, NY

Join us again this year for lots of conversation, great food, volley ball and a walk in the park.This will be a pot luck so please bring a dish to share and you own place settings if possible. We will have some extra place settings but would like to keep the garbage to a minimum. Thanks. See you there. Call or email Trudy if you are willing to help set up or clean up for this event. 391-2830 or tquaif@yahoo.com. Thanks. New members always welcome.

Ralph Nader: An Unreasonable Man Thursday , August 2, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This is a biographical documentary film ( 2hours, 1 min) about the life of the legendary consumer advocate and political activist, Ralph Nader. Join us for the film, followed by a discussion. "The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man." -George Bernard Shaw, Man and Superman (1903) "Maxims for Revolutionists". 391-2830 for more information. New members always welcome.

Lorna Tychostup: Photo Journalist to Display Iraq Photos and Speak
Thursday, July 19, 7pm
318 Delaware Ave. (rear of Exposed Gallery and Java Jazz Café)

Ms. Tychostup has made many trips to Iraq to document the ravages of war on women and children. Her work will be displayed at the Gallery beginning July 19th, and will be presented to the public at an open house. Exposed Gallery and Java Jazz Cafe are collaborating to help Ms. Tychostup raise the funds to return to Iraq and continue her work. Email for more information: callanca@gmail.com

I Know I'm Not Alone
A Musician's Search For the Human Cost of War Thursday, July 5, 6:45 - 8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This is documentary film by Michael Franti, a well know musician and human rights worker who traveled to Iraq, Palestine, and Israel to explore the human cost of war. "I Know I'm Not Alone (2006) is an antidote to despair. With soulful music and boyish charm, Michael Franti sings his way through two brutal occupations--Iraq and Palestine, breaking through the hate and revealing the oneness of our human family." --Medea Benjamin. Contact: 391-2830 for further information. Join us!

2nd Annual Capital Region Grafton Picnic for Peace Saturday, July 14, 9 am till Dusk
Grafton State Park

July 14, 2007, we will have a wonderful gathering for all the PEACE loving/desiring people at Grafton State Park. We have rented the Rabbit Run Pavillion again, right near the water, for a day of fun, swimming, boating, hiking, horseshoes, volleyball and community building. Bring your kayak, your kids, your sun screen, your poetry, your instruments, your voice to SING, your favorite dish to share, we will provide a sound system! Please bring Your Own PLACE Setting and "cutlery" to be taken Home to wash (We are also saving the planet from plastic..a petroleum product!) Last year we had minimal waste ...this year none! We had a great time last year and plan to again this year....recharge your battery to stand up for PEACE! Any musician who will play for us may have their cd's etc for sale and all leaflets and educatonal materials will be welcomed on the info table! Save the date to celebrate our community..our work...our future as we work for change....car pool to save gas and $ entrance fee 7$ per car load...JULY 14 more to come: wendy 781-0071 or 542-4194 or Trudy : tquaif@yahoo.com for info. Be there, bring sun and good spirits!

BNP COMMUNITY SERVICE
SATURDAY JUNE 30TH 9:30 - 11:30 am
STEWARTS 9-W , Delmar, NY BNP was invited by Town Supervisor Jack Cunningham to be among a number of community organizations to participate in a Town clean-up project. Each organization will be asked to work a two hour period on a Saturday to clean up a prime section of a Bethlehem road. BNP is scheduled for June 30th from 9:30 to 11:30 to be minimally disruptive of our busy weekends. . The Town will provide water and orange visibility vests. We should wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt and bring gloves, a hat and comfortable shoes. For a minimum investment this gives us a chance to become more of a recognized part of the Town activities. . Let me know if you can make it (Bruce Bushart at 439-6719) or show up on the 30th. Thanks - Supervisor Cunningham plans to be there to get us started - hope to see you there - this is an important event in the growth of BNP. LOCATION: AREA NEAR STEWARTS ROUTE 9-W - PARKING - GEIST BROTHERS AUTO BODY - please do not block their entrance.

WATER FIRST: LIVING DROP BY DROP
A Documentary Film by Amy Hart Monday, June 11, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

6,000 children die every day from drinking dirty water. Water First reveals the magnitude of the global water crisis, and follows one man’s journey to create solutions. Join us for a special screening followed by a discussion with Charles Banda, Founder of Freshwater Project Malawi, and subject of the film. Introduced by Oliver Holmes, Town of Bethlehem, Commissioner of Public Works. This event is free and open to the public. It is also a fundraiser for Freshwater Project in Malawi. All funds collected will be used to build wells in Africa.
Contact: 391-2830 for further information. www.WaterDoc.org. Co-sponsored by the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Northeast NY and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.

Nuclear: Weapons , Waste and War Forum Thursday, June 7, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

John Amidon has recently returned from the Nevada Test Site and participated in a weeklong protest against nuclear weapons. This event focused on protesting the proposed “Complex 2030” plan, the “Reliable Replacement Warhead”, and the occupation of Iraq. John will be joined by Joan Walker and local physician Dr. Andy Coates. Joan will speak about aspects of the NY Military Toxins Law passed in 2006 including development of a post deployment NYS Health Registry for NY Army and Air Force National Guard members. Dr. Coates will represent Physicians for Social Responsibility. There will be a general discussion on Nuclear issues related to war, public health, global warming and the future of our planet. Contact: 391-2830 for further information. Co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Physicians for Social Responsibility and Veterans for Peace.

Rally: Stop the violence...Stop the humiliation...Start to make a change Against the illegal 40-year occupation
Friday, June 8, 4:30 - 5:30 PM Washington Ave. Armory (Corner of Lark St & Central Ave. Albany)

Calling for an end to the 40-year-old US supported military occupation of Palestinian lands. Co-Sponsored by: Upper Hudson Peace Action, The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, Albany County Greens, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Schenectady Neighbors for Peace & Friends Meeting of Albany.

TAKE CONTROL OF OUR ELECTIONS ...GOT PAPER? GOT DEMOCRACY Saturday, June 2nd, 5:00 PM (Film: "Truth in the Booth" will be shown from 4: 15 - 5pm)
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave , Delmar , NY

Steve Freeman- author, Was the 2004 Presidential Election Stolen?, Jonathan Simon- Election Defense Alliance, Bo Lipari- New Yorkers for Verified Voting, Sally Castleman, Election Defense Alliance. Come hear the evidence not being reported. New York, the only state that hasn?t yet bought into electronic voting machines, needs our help to get it right the first time, on the first count, on paper we can see with our own eyes. Just Say No to E-Counting and Yes to See-Counting. Brought to you by Northeast Citizens for Responsible Media (Re-Media) www.Re-Media.org, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace www.BethlehemForPeace.org , ARISE www.ARISEorg.net

For the Sake of the Peace, Stability and Security of our Country and the World Monday, May 14, 12:00 noon
West Park Capitol Steps, Albany, NY

Concerned citizens will gather at the West Steps of the State Capitol in Albany to publicly demand our state and federal elected representatives take resolute steps to implement: The TEN COMMANDMENTS of the People ...We the people . . . for the sake of World Peace, Stability and Security. Take the lunch hour off and come down to the State Capitol and be a peaceful counter point to the event on the east side where Hillary Clinton will be speaking. Signs and banners without sticks are welcome. Speakers at the rally will include: Elliot Adams, National President of Veterans for Peace, Yonatan Shapira, former Israeli Air Force Blackhawk pilot, now a Combatant for Peace, Dr. Stephen Larsen, biographer of Joseph Campbell, Nathen Alft - Lafond - student activist on the situation in New Orleans and Government complicity, Andor Skotnes - Professor of History at Sage Colleges and former Co-chair of Historians Against War, Michael Rice of BNP, Jay Wenk, World War II veteran and peace activist hero, Joan Walker, activist against the use of Depleted Uranium.Sponsored by Woodstock Peace Affinity, BNP, Veterans for Peace, Middle East Crisis Response, Dutchess Greens, Peacemakers of Schoharie County, First Unitrian Society of Schenectady. For more information contact: Tarak at 845 679-3299 or tkauff@hvc.rr.com

Ed Kinane: His Recent Trip to Iran
Thursday, May 3, 7:00 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Ed Kinane will speak about his recent trip to Iran with a fellowship of reconciliation "civilian diplomacy" delegation. Ed also spent 5 months in Iraq in 2003 with Voices in the Wilderness. He has been an outspoken critic of the US Army's School of the Americas at Fort Benning Georgia. He has twice served time in Federal Prison for his non violent protests against the School of the Americas. Carole Ferraro, who also recently visited Iran, will introduce Ed. Call 391-2830 for further information.

The Eighth Step presents Anne Feeney
Saturday, May 5, 8:00 PM
Sanctuary for Independent Media, Troy, NY

IThe Eighth Step presents an evening of intelligent often irreverent & sometimes raucous muscial commentary. Anne Feeney, Union Maid, Labor Activist, Performer with Evan Greer, Riotfolk at the Sanctuary for Independent Media, Troy, NY . Info and Tix 518-434-1703

May Day Festival and Free Speech Event
Tuesday, May 1, 5:00 - 10:00PM
South Troy's Open Marketplace (Under a Tent in case of inclement weather)

May Day Festival and Free Speech Event featuring the regional premiere of Peter Miller's film Sacco and Vanzetti, The story of the persecution of two immigrant workers in the early 20th century. With Food, Entertainment, Children's Activities, Storytelling, Literature Tables, Maria Zemantauski, Flamenco Guitar, Barbara Chepaitis, Story Teller, Solidarity Singers. For more information, go to the May Day 2007 website.

Inside Iraq: What Really Happens?
Wednesday, May 2, 7:00 pm
SUNY Albany, Main Campus, Lecture Center 23

A FORUM on The Human Costs of the War and how to bring PEACE. Speakers:May Saffar, native of Baghdad; Michael Blake, American veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom; Joe Lombardo, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace;David Eisenstein, U Albany Class of 2006; Sean Muniz, 911 Truth. Sponsors: U-Albany 911 Truth, Campus Greens, SUNYA Peace and Justice, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Call 439-8262 for more information. Map of SUNY Campus.

Communities Uniting for Climate Action Now: Step It Up 2007
Saturday, April 14, 11 AM - 3:00 PM
Lake House at Washington Park, Albany

Step it Up Congress! Cut Carbon 80% by 2050! Join the Honest Weight Food Coop and other local environmental organizations to call for action on climate change.The Honest Weight Food Co-op will host a local foods picnic at the Lake House in Washington Park. Speakers and musical performers include: David Yarrow, Hakim Steward, Fred Braglia, and Byran Thomas. Walk from Washington Park to the Capital steps at 2:00 pm. Judith Enck (Deputy Secretary for the Environment), Sandy Gordon (Albany County Legislature), Steve Gilman (NOFA-NY Policy Coordinator), Edward Bennett (President, NY Interfaith Power & Light), Michael Rice (BNP) will speak from the Capital steps. This is a national effort, with 902 events planned in 50 states, organized by environmentalist Bill McKibben, author of "The End of Nature" .

Reflections on South Africa Since 1994
Thursday, April 5, 7 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Andor Skotnes, professor of history at the Sage Colleges, Delmar resident and BNP member, first returned to South Africa in 1994, the year usually marked as the official end to apartheid with the election of Nelson Mandela to the presidency and the triumph of the ANC at the polls. Born in Johannesburg, Skotnes emigrated with his family to southern California in the 1950s. When he returned in 1994 he found South Africa in the first, heady days of the post-apartheid era. In December-January 2006-07 Skotnes returned along with his family, Teresa Meade, Darren and Claire Skotnes, to reconnect with his South African relatives and to witness how much has changed in the 12 years since his last visit.Teresa Meade, professor of history at Union College, Delmar resident and BNP member, directed a 3-week-long public history study tour of Cape Town with 22 students from Union College. Under the auspices of the University of Cape Town, the Union College students learned the history of South Africa, especially the Cape peninsula, by viewing monuments, visiting museums, meeting with members of township-based organizations, and through lectures with professors from the history department at UCT.

Teresa and Andor will discuss their impressions of South Africa, shows slides, and answer questions about the world they visited. Although neither is an expert in South African history and politics, they look forward to engaging in a conversation with BNP supporters about the changes underway in the "new South Africa."

Kathy Kelly: Eyewitness to War, Witness for Peace
Saturday, March 24, 6:30 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Spend an inspiring evening with international peace activist, author and three time Nobel Peace Prize nominee Kathy Kelly. When the first American Marines battled their way into Baghdad in March of 2003 they were met by Kathy Kelly and a small band of peace witnesses. From Baghdad to Beirut, Haiti to Ft Benning, from a maximum security prison cell to the Washington DC office of Hilary Clinton, Kathy Kelly has courageously put her life on the line to serve as a witness for peace in a war-ravaged world. Join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Women Against War, Veterans for Peace and the First Unitarian Society of Schenectady Social Action Council as we welcome Kathy back from her recent stay in Jordan, documenting the plight of Iraqi war refugees stranded there, abandoned by their own country and the Jordanian government as well. Her moving accounts of ordinary people caught up in violent conflict will sometimes shock , but will also leave you in awe of the power of human compassion. More information: Bob Alft info4co@yahoo.com, 518-765-4386 or Elaine: 518.439.8262 .

4th Anniversary of the War in Iraq: March & Rally in Albany to Protest! Sunday , March 18, 2:00 PM
Capital East Park (on the east side of the Capital), Albany

The Northeast Peace and Justice Action Coalition is planning a massive march and rally in Albany on Sunday, March 18. The rally will start atCapital Park East in Albany at 2 PM and will march to the Federal Building. We will carry signs with the names of US GIs who have died and remember the 650,000 Iraqis who have died. You can register to participate and get the name of a GI who you will represent at www.RememberingTheFallen.org . In November, we voted to end the war but instead we got an escalation. Now is the time for all who oppose the war to stand up and say, "Enough!". For more information call Joe at 439-1968 or jlombard@nycap.rr.com

Steve Breyman on "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid" by Jimmy Carter Thursday, March 1, 7:00 - 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Nobel Peace Prize winner and former President, Jimmy Carter, has been involved in Middle East policies for the last three decades. His new book on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid", will be reviewed for us by Steve Breyman. A discussion will follow. Join us! 518 391-2830 for further information.

"The Enemy Within: A case study of America's response to the threat of homegrown terrorism" Thursday, February 1, 6:30 - 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

We will view this FRONTLINE documentary, and follow-up with a discussion. "Critics of the U.S. war on terror, both in and out of government, fear that cases like Lodi demonstrate that the Bush administration, the Justice Department and the FBI have exaggerated the terrorist threat inside America. "Terrorism itself can be a rallying cry for political purposes," says John Brennan, founder of the National Counterterrorism Center and 23-year veteran of the CIA. "There is a legitimate concern about terrorism. However, you don't want to overhype it, and I think there has been some of that over the past couple of years." A discussion about how events in this film parallel the Albany case (led by Steve Downs who worked as a lawyer for the State Commission on Judicial Conduct and was also the hero of the Crossgates Mall T-shirt free speech case in 2003) will follow the movie.

United for Peace and Justice: March on Washington, D.C. Saturday, January 27, Leaving Albany about Midnight Friday (1/26), arriving back in Albany about 1:00 AM Sunday(1/28)
Departure from: Eagle Street Garage, Albany (Madison Ave. between Eagle and Philip)

2 buses have been reserved for this event. Buses will be leaving from the Eagle St. Garage, Albany (Madison Ave. between Eagle and Philip) on Friday, January 26 at midnight. (Please arrive by 11:30 PM.)The buses will arrive in Washington about 9 AM. The return buses will leave Washington at 5 PM on Saturday and arrive back in Albany about 1 AM Sunday. Complete the Bus Registration form and return with $65 ($40 for Students) for each ticket to: BNP, PO Box 473, Delmar, NY 12054. Checks made out to "BNP". We have reserved 2 buses and expect them to fill up fast, so send in your $ today! All payments must be received by January 12. If you would like to request a scholarship or need further information, call Joe at 439-1968. If you would like to get on the bus at the Catskill Thruway exit, call Wendy Dwyer at: (518) 781- 0071.

Combatants for Peace Saturday, January 20, 4:00 - 5:30 PM Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Combatants for Peace, a Palestinian ex- prisoner and Israeli ex-combatant will speak on how they gave up violence and came together to form a vision for peace. They are on a 22 city tour of the U.S. and we are honored to have them in the Capital District. This event is hosted by Brit Tzedek v'Shalom (Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace) and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Don't miss it, doors will open at 3:45 PM.

Combatants for Peace
The "Combatants for Peace" movement was started jointly by Palestinians and Israelis, who have taken an active part in the cycle of violence; Israelis as soldiers in the Israeli army and Palestinians as part of the violent struggle for Palestinian freedom. After brandishing weapons for so many years, and having seen one another only through weapon sights, we have decided to put down our guns, and to fight for peace.

Sulaiman Al Hamri spent four-and-a-half years in Israeli prison for his involvement in anti-occupation protests. He is the Palestinian coordinator for Combatants for Peace.
Elik Elhanan was in an Israeli combat unit for three years. His sister was killed by a Palestinian suicide bomber. He is the Israeli coordinator for Combatants for Peace. For mor information, contact Paul Tick at: ptick@nycap.rr.com

Press Conference with Congressman Michael McNulty Sunday, January 21,11:00 AM
Four Corners ( Intersection of Delaware and Kenwood Avenues), Delmar, NY

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will hold a peace movement Press Conference with Congressman Michael McNulty. All welcome! We will call for public protest in Washington on January 27th and initiate our fifth year of activism with a call to redouble efforts to stop the Iraq War. Details to follow next week!

NO!.. No More Troops ...No More Money ... No Torture...No Guantanamo Thursday, January 11, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm
Sears corner of Wolf Road and Central Avenue in Colonie

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace invites all persons concerned about the President’s call for a “surge” of troops to Iraq to join in a Vigil. The people have spoken on November 7, 2006: End the War in Iraq.

The Baker-Hamilton Commission (Iraq Study Group) appointed by the President has reported that the war cannot be won, that it has evoked a civil war in Iraq.

The Generals have advised the President that an escalation has been tried before and will not work. (The President replaced them with men who will do his incomprehensible bidding.)

January 11 also marks the fifth anniversary of the opening of the Naval base at Guantanamo Bay to imprison and torture so-called “enemy combatants” – many of them turned in by neighbors in Afghanistan in order to collect up to $5000 in rewards. In recognition of that shameful anniversary, the Inter-Faith Alliance is holding a press conference at 11 am on January 11 at 40 North Main Street in Albany, and the Catholic Worker is calling for a 24-hour fast from 6 pm January 10 to 6 pm January 11, and is holding a vigil in front of the Armory on Washington Avenue from 12 to 1 pm.

Battered Women, Abused Children, and Child Custody: A National Crisis January 12th, 13th, & 14th, 2007 , (Friday, 6 p.m. - Sunday, 6 p.m.)
Albany Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, Albany, NY

The Fourth Annual Battered Mothers Custody Conference: Keynote Addresses by: Actress Angela Shelton ("Searching for Angela Shelton") and Phyllis Chesler, Ph.D., Author, “Mothers on Trial” , Lenore Walker, Ph.D., Domestic Violence Expert , Patricia Evans, Author, “The Verbally Abusive Relationship”, Lundy Bancroft, Author, “The Batterer as Parent”, and Sol Gothard, Retired Judge, LA 5th Circuit Court of Appeal

Visit www.batteredmotherscustodyconference.org for registration, brochure, schedule, topics, fees, fee waiver, hotel, and other details.
For additional information, contact: Mo Hannah, Ph.D., Chair, mhannah413@aol.com , 518-210-2487 Liliane Heller Miller, Vice Chair, lrhmiller@carolina.rr.com 704-777-1803

Out of Balance: Exxon Mobil's Impact on Climate Change Thursday, January 4, 6:30 - 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This is Joe Public Films' fourth documentary, produced by Tom Jackson who will be at this event to lead a disucssion after the film. The documentary is an expose´ of the oil giant, with a primary focus on ExxonMobil's funding of PR firms out of which climate change "skeptics" have worked for years. The so-called skeptics have fostered confusion in the public about the human impact on climate, and dragged out any significant action against climate change, while EM continues to make record profits. JPF also shows the ongoing Exxon Valdez case, and traces the history of what we now know as ExxonMobil back to the days of Standard Oil. The result is a clear picture of a company with one clear objective, letting nothing stand in its way - not even the destruction of the climate. Join us for this event and let's discuss what we can do now! More information: 518 391-2830. Admission to this event is FREE. Download the publicity flyer in PDF format.

NATIONWIDE EVENTS COMMEMORATE 3,000 U.S.
MILITARY DEATHS IN IRAQ 5 p.m.-6 p.m. on the day after the 3,000th U.S. military death in Iraq (Click on photo at left)
Four Corners (intersection of Delaware and Kenwood Avenue) . A vigil will also be held in Saratoga in front of the post office Saratoga Springs Broadway and Church streets, sponsored by the Saratoga Peace Alliance

Not One More Death, Not One More Dollar events in more than 100 communities nationwide will commemorate those lost in Iraq both military and civilian on the day following the sad announcement that the 3,000th U.S. service person has died. Coordinated nationally by the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker peace and social justice organization and co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, the war memorial events will mourn the human cost of war, call for the troops to come home, and support funding an Iraqi-led reconstruction of the war-torn country.
More U.S. lives have been lost in Iraq than in the first four years of the Vietnam War. In addition, more than 20,000 U.S. service persons have been seriously injured in Iraq. Estimates of Iraqi casualties vary widely, but a recent Johns Hopkins study published in The Lancet put the figure as high as 600,000 Iraqis killed. For more information about this event, see the AFSC Not One More Death, Not One More Dollar. Further information, call Joe at 439-1968.

4th Annual Crossgates Mall T-Shirt Walk Thursday, December 21
5:00 PM meet at Bricklayers (media invited)
6:00 PM meet at the Food Court in Crossgates Mall

Enter through any entrance and converge at the food court at 6:00 PM. Please car pool where possible. We will meet at the Bricklayers Hall behind the Westmere Fire Department, off Rt. 20, near the mall at 5 PM (media invited) and we will proceed to the mall and gather at the food court at 6 PM to sing like we did last year. ...WEAR YOUR PEACE TEE SHIRTS .....Please join us for this event. Let's stroll through the mall. We will sing holiday carols ( popular songs provided by the Raging Grannies) and share our hopes for peace with the holiday shoppers at Crossgates! This annual event is listed by Wikipedia: "At the dawn of the Iraq War in March 2003, the mall (Crossgates) became the center of a free speech controversy when Selkirk resident Stephen Downs was arrested refusing to take off an anti-war t-shirt that he had purchased in the mall. After many objections, the mall dropped the charges. Shortly thereafter, a large protest was held at the mall where many people came wearing anti-war attire." More Information at: 518 781-0071 Co-sponsored by Peace Action and Woman Against War.

Democracy in Action: Where do we go from here? Sunday, December 10, 4:30 - 7:00 PM Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Join us for an open mike discussion about the future of our country. Now that the elections are over, where do we go from here? Possible topics for discussion: War in Iraq ; Potential for more war: Iran , Syria etc.; Healthcare crisis: 45 million uninsured Americans; Global Warming; Peak Oil; Jobs and Education. Let's share our ideas and discuss the issues that matter to each of us! Short poems and songs are welcome additions to this event.

Take a break from the hectic holiday pace and join us. Refreshments will be available and the BNP store will be open for your holiday shopping. Mo Hannah and Joe Lombardo will sing a song or two to help remind us of the importance of solidarity and hope, as we work together to promote peace and justice for all. Call 439-1968 for further information.

BNP Film: The Ground Truth Thursday, December 7, 6:30 - 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace for a special showing of The Ground Truth, a moving 72-minute documentary that features the personal stories of several Iraq War veterans and shows us the human costs of war. Following the film, we will be joined by very special guest and Iraq Veterans Against the War member John Mallantz of Pittsburgh. John was a Combat Medic with the 4th Infantry Division in Iraq and for his service was awarded 4 Army Achievement Citations, 1 Army Commendation, 1 Combat Medic Badge, and 1 Global War on Terrorism Medal. John turned down the Purple Heart, even though he was eligible for it many times over because he was hit by numerous roadside bombs while conducting operations in Iraq. As is the case for many soldiers returning from Iraq, John is categorized as 90% disabled owing to his post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and physical ailments suffered as a result of his service. To say the least, the effects of the Iraq war live on for John, and for his family. This holiday season, BNP is proud to ‘adopt’ John’s family, helping give them a happier holiday season with much-needed assistance from the BNP family. Don’t miss this special opportunity to meet John and hear his story first-hand. Call 439-8262 for more information.

Film: Bought and Sold Sunday, November 26, 2:00 - 4:00 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Do you trust political parties and government to protect your vote? Do you know about the reliability of the voting machines being marketed in NYS? This 45-minute film produced in 2006 by Robert Millman explores how the selection of new voting equipment required under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) has been skewed in favor of DREs (direct recording electronic voting machines), in spite of serious unanswered questions about the danger of vote tampering and verifiable voting. Come, get the information you need and then contact the county and state officials who will be deciding soon how votes will be counted and verified in our state. The screening will be followed by a question and answer period with Robert Millman, Film Producer; Aimee Allaud, League of Women Voters of Albany County; and Dennis Karius of ARISE. For information, Contact: Aimee Allaud, League of Women Voters, 482-2617, Ann Brandon, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, 439-4332, Dennis Karius, ARISE, 456-5721 It’s your vote - don't miss it.

BNP Cookbook Pot Luck Celebration Sunday, November 19, 5:00 - 7:30 PM The Commons at Adams Station, Juniper Drive, Delmar

Bethlehem Neighbors For Peace is pleased to announce the publishing of their first cookbook. Please join us in a POT LUCK supper, celebrating and acknowledging all our participants.The location will be: The Commons at Adams Station, Juniper Drive , Delmar. This is our chance to sample each other's cookbook recipes. If possible, please bring your cookbook recipe submission. Otherwise, a maindish, dessert or salad to share is fine. Your own place setting would be helpful. Recipes for 2nd edition will be welcome. We are selling fast. Paid pre-orders may be picked up on this day.You may pre-order cookbooks by sending a check for $14 each, made payable to BNP, to:
Leslie Hudson, 125 LaGrange Lane , Feura Bush , N.Y. 12067 .
Partial proceeds are to be donated to The Capital District Food Pantries.

Film: “The Power of Community – How Cuba Survived Peak Oil.” Monday, November13 ,Potluck Supper at 5:30 PM. Film at 7 PM The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

The documentary became an inspiration to Faith Morgan and Pat Murphy when they took a trip to Cuba through Global Exchange in August 2003. That year Pat had begun studying and speaking about worldwide peak oil production. When they learned that Cuba underwent the loss of over ½ of its oil imports and survived, after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, they went to Cuba to see how they did it. They found what Cubans call “The Special Period.” The documentary describes the Cuban process. The event is co-sponsored by Hudson-Mohawk Community Renewable Energy (CoRE) Project, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Honest Weight Food coop and Capital District Energy Action.

The Wheels of Justice Tour with Bob Watada Wednesday, November 8, 6:30 pm. First Unitarian Society of Schenectady , 1221 Wendell Ave, Schenectady

The Senior Youth Group at the Schenectady Unitarian Society invites you to attend an evening with the Wheels of Justice Tour and Bob Watada. First launched by Kathy Kelly's Voices in the Wilderness, the WOJ brings eyewitness accounts to occupation in Iraq and Palestine . The colorful biodiesel bus traveled to hundreds of cities and thousands of venues over the past three years. They will be visiting local high schools and colleges November 8,9, and 10 in an effort to reach out to young people trying to understand war and occupation.

BNP Film: An Inconvenient Truth Thursday, November 2, 6:30 - 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Join us for this compelling film that is a must see for anyone interested in saving our planet . A discussion will follow. Here are some questions that we will consider: Why isn't our government doing more to make the public more aware of Global Warming? How will global warming affect the lives of Americans in the next 10 - 20 years? How long do we have before the climate change becomes irreversible? Aside from changing my own house and lifestyle, what else can I do? The evidence for a coming global catastrophe is so obvious and compelling--but MOST people still don't get/believe/understand it. How can we put this information in front of enough people to effect real change? In what format/media/method? Call 391-2830 for more information.

Sanctuary for Independent Media: Professor Mansour Farhang: Iran Nuclear Program and U.S -Iranian Relations Wednesday, October 11, Reception (Iranian food) 6:00 p.m.; Talk 7:00 p.m. The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

The Iran Working Group of Upper Hudson Peace Action will host Prof. Mansour Farhang. There will also be an Iranian meal and cultural display. Prof. Farhang is an Iranian-born author and former diplomat who served as reolutionary Iran's first ambassador to the UN after the fall of the Shah and before Khomenie. He now teaches international relations and Middle Eastern politics at Bennington College, Vermont.Mansour Farhang is Catharine Osgood Foster Chair for Distinguished Teaching, Professor of Political Science, Bennington College. He served as revolutionary Iran's first ambassador to the United Nations, resigning in protest when the Khomeini regime refused to accept the U.N. Commission of Inquiry's recommendation to release American hostages in Teheran. Early in the Iran-Iraq war, he served as envoy in negotiations with international peace missions. Currently, he is on the advisory board of Middle East Watch, a branch of Human Rights Watch. He is the author of U.S. Imperialism: From the Spanish-American War to the Iranian Revolution; and, with William Dorman, The U.S. Press and Iran: Foreign Policy and the Journalism of Deference. His opinion pieces have appeared in The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and The Christian Science Monitor. Farhang has lectured at universities and colleges across the country including Georgetown, Stanford, Middlebury College, New York University, and The University of Texas at Austin. As one of the most sought after experts on the Middle East, he has appeared as a guest on numerous national and international radio and television programs, and serves as a regular commentator on both the BBC and Radio France International. Presented by the Iran Working Group of Upper Hudson Peace Action. Co-sponsors: Troy Peace Action, Women Against War, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, and Saratoga Peace Alliance. More information on the Sanctuary for Independent Media . Download the event publicity flyer.

BNP Film: Iraq for Sale Sunday, October 8, 4:30 - 7:00 PM Bethlehem Town Hall
445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

This 75 minute film will be followed by a discussion. "Acclaimed director Robert Greenwald (Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price, Outfoxed, and Uncovered) takes you inside the lives of soldiers, truck drivers, widows and children who have been changed forever as a result of profiteering in the reconstruction of Iraq. Iraq for Sale uncovers the connections between private corporations making a killing in Iraq and the decision makers who allow them to do so." Call 439-8863 for more information.

Holly Near Concert: Show Up For Peace Friday, October 6, 8:00 PM Saint Joseph Hall at the College of St Rose
985 Madison Street, Albany

In our name, the U.S. government illegally invaded and continues to occupy Iraq, reaping death and destruction. Our government is violating international human rights law and abandoning the road to peace in the Middle East. Thousands of soldiers have died. And tens of thousands of civilians—including thousands of women, children, and elders. We have spoken our resistance to these wars, occupations and to illegal detentions. We will show up at the polls on election day on November 7 and vote for peace.
This concert is brought to you by: The Eighth Step, Women Against War, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, New York State NOW. Tickets available:
Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza, Albany; Honest Weight Food Coop, Albany; The Open Door, Schenectady; Market Block Books, Troy; The GreenGrocer, Clifton Park; Celtic Treasures, Clifton Park. Tickets are $20.

Battered Mothers Child Custody Awareness Event Thursday, October 5, 6:30 PM- 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This nationwide event springs from the vision and activism of many people and organizations concerned with the re-victimization of battered mothers as they try to gain safety and protection for themselves and their children from our nation's family court system. The event co-coordinators include:

The Battered Mothers Custody Conference, Stop Family Violence, NOW NYS, Michigan NOW /National Family Court Watch Project, Protective Parents Assn, Garland Waller (Producer, Small Justice), Dominique Lasseur (Producer, Breaking the Silence: Children's Stories), & Men Actively Seeking to End Violence

In the Albany are there will be 2 events, one is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. The other will be held at Siena college. A combination of 2 documentaries on this issue will be shown and the event will seek to link the issues of domestic violence and peace. For more information call 518-210-2487

Sanctuary for Independent Media: My Country, My Country Tuesday, October 3, 7:00 PM The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

Working alone in Iraq over eight months, filmmaker Laura Poitras creates an extraordinarily intimate portrait of Iraqis living under U.S. occupation. Her principal focus is Dr. Riyadh, an Iraqi medical doctor, father of six and Sunni political candidate. An outspoken critic of the occupation, he is equally passionate about the need to establish democracy in Iraq, arguing that Sunni participation in the January 2005 elections is essential. Yet all around him, Dr. Riyadh sees only chaos, as his waiting room fills each day with patients suffering the physical and mental effects of ever-increasing violence. Poitras gained remarkable access to the Sunni community, U.S. military and the U.N., resulting in "My Country, My Country," a powerful mosaic of daily life in Iraq not seen in the mainstream media. More information on the Sanctuary for Independent Media

The Solidarity Committee’s film series: Sir! No Sir! Saturday, September 30, 7:00 PM Bricklayers' Local Union Hall
302 Centre Drive, Albany

This new, powerful documentary (84 minutes) discloses the long-suppressed history of the GI movement to end the war in Vietnam. Based on the stories of U.S. soldiers and never-before-seen archival material, “Sir! No Sir!” reveals the GI movement’s explosion of defiance against that bloody conflict, as well as the movement’s profound impact on the military and on the war itself. This film showing is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Upper Hudson Peace Action, and the Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace. The film screening will occur at the Bricklayers’ Local 2 Union Hall (302 Centre Drive). Directions: Starting at the intersection of Western Avenue (Route 20) and I-87 (the Northway), go west on Western Avenue for 9/10 of a mile. Pass the 20 Metro Diner and the Westmere Firehouse (both on your right). IMMEDIATELY after the firehouse, turn right on Centre Drive and go 1/10 of a mile to the Bricklayers’ Hall. Admission is free. Refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome toattend.

Sir! No Sir! Thursday, September 21, 7:00 PM The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

BNP Film Night: WHY WE FIGHT Thursday, September 7, 6:30 PM- 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This 99 minute film explores the motivations for war. Imperialism, patriotism, militarism, and corruption are all reasons for war that are explored in this powerful documentary. Dwight Eisenhower warned us about the dangers of the "military-industrial complex". Today we see the results of how the entanglement of politics and business interests in war is driving us to a very uncertain future. Join us for this film and the discussion that will follow. For more information 439-8863.

The Convergence of Hope and History, Sustainable Solutions For A Peaceful World Friday, August 18, 5:30 -9:00 PM Saturday, August 19, 8:30 - 4:30 PM The National Kateri Tekakawitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY

The 8th annual peace conference will feature Jim Merkel and Jim Jennings. Jim Merkel is the author of Radical Simplicity and is the Sustainability Coordinator at Dartmouth College. Jim Jennings is the Founder and President of Conscience International, a humanitarian aid and human rights organization and a frequent political commentator for human rights on CNN, Fox and other TV and radio networks. The Friday evening program will also feature Anthony Aversano who is a local member of Families of 911, Peaceful Tomorrows.

We are reaching out, working to bring together both political and ecological activists, hoping to encourage responsible citizen action on many different levels. We need to soften our footprints on our lovely planet earth. We need also to soften our government's footprint on planet earth and hence need to interact politically to humanize government policy. Maureen Auman @ 518-869-6674, Cathy Callan @ 518-439-8115 or Dave Smalley @ 518-922-5204 can provide complete information and tickets. Pre-registration is deeply appreciated to help facilitate planning for lunch and the days logistics. Prices are low and scholarships are available. Kindly pass this along to your friends and neighbors and please plan on attending. Friday evening: free will donation. Saturday: Students and Seniors - $10.00 Adults - sliding scale $15.00 - $40.00. Download a listing of Workshops that will be offered on August 19.

BNP Annual Summer Pot Luck Picnic Sunday, August 13, 3:00 PM- Dusk Bethlehem Town Park, Pavilion A, 261 Elm Avenue, Delmar

This will be our long awaited chance to socialize, strategize, organize and have fun! Please bring food to share. BNP will provide plates and utensils.Wine and beer are acceptable. Bring musical instruments to make music, good stories, games etc., and lawn chairs or blankets. A card table or two would be useful. Contact: tquaif@yahoo.com for further information or to volunteer to work on set-up or clean-up.

Please help us fill the BNP Recipes for Peace cookbook.! When you come to the picnic, please bring a copy of one or more of your favorite recipes to wet our appetites and encourage our culinary skills. All categories our welcome.If you cannot attend the potluck, please email your recipes to Leslie Hudson, at cathudson@att.net. Thanks.

Reading of John Hersey's "Hiroshima"
Sunday, August 6, 2006, 5:30 PM
Washington Park (Near the entrance at New Scotland and Madison)
Come any time you can between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm
We will also pass out leaflets and end with a candlelight vigil. On August 6, 1945 the United States of America used the atomic bomb for the first time on the city of Hiroshima, Japan, destroying the city; on August 9, the United States used the atomic bomb again on Nagasaki, Japan. Over 200,000 people died immediately in the two bombings and over a hundred thousand more died in the following decades as a result of the effects of the radiation.

To remember those bombings and to commemorate the victims, local citizens will be gathering to read John Hersey’s Hiroshima. The public reading will take place on Sunday, August 6, 2006, in Washington Park, Albany, NY, near the entrance at New Scotland Ave. and Madison Ave., starting at 5:30 PM and continuing until the reading of the book is completed (about 9:00 PM). Seating will be on the grass, folding chairs or blankets are suggested. The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in reading can sign up to participate when they arrive, or by calling Dan Wilcox, 482-0262, dwlcx@earthlink.net.

Hiroshima was first published in the New Yorker in 1946; it tells the story of the bombing on August 6, 1945 by following the story of six of the survivors. The book version has been in print since 1946.

Community Discussion on the Crisis in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip Wednesday, August 2, 7:00 - 10:00 PM First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, 405 Washington Avenue
With each day that goes by, more innocent civilians are dying in Lebanon, Israel and the Gaza Strip. Bombings and blockades
are limiting food, water, medical supplies and freedom of movement. A tragic humanitarian crisis is rapidly developing. Join with
other concerned citizens to find out more about what's going on. Learn what you can do to call for an unconditional cease-fire and a
negotiated peace. Please join this community forum for action with presentations on the background of conflict in the Middle East followed by an open strategy session. Sponsored by the Palestinian Rights Committee, the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany Social Responsibilities Council and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. For more information contact the PRC at prc@riseup.net

BNP Film Night: Loose Change Thursday, August 3, 6:00 PM- 8:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Film makers Korey Rowe, Dylan Avery and Jason Bermas will be joining us for the film and the discussion that will follow."Loose Change 2nd Edition" is the follow-up to the most provocative 9-11 documentary on the market today. "This film shows direct connection between the attacks of September 11, 2001 and the United States government. Evidence is derived from news footage, scientific fact, and most important, Americans who suffered through that tragic day." Check back for further information.Join us for the film and the discussion that will follow. Contact 439-8863 for further information. Download the publicity flyer.

Capital Region Picnic for Peace....
Sunday, July 30, 9:00 AM -Dusk
Grafton State Park, Grafton, NY

Join other Capital Region peace and justice activists in a day of relaxation, food and fun. We have reserved the Rabbit Run Pavilion for the day. Bring food and beverages to share and please label food to indicate whether it is vegetarian or not. NEPAJAC will provide plates, cutlery , cups, ice and some beverages. This is a "carry in, carry out" so if folks can bring containers that they can take home and wash rather than anything disposable it would be environmentally friendly and clean up will be a lot easier. Bring your own wine or beer ( and plan to take home the containers). Bring music, live if possible. Sound system will be available after 12. Entertainment will include the Solidarity singers. There will also be an open mike so bring poetry, announcements and stories to tell. Activities include: children's playground, row boats,canoes, kayaks, volley ball, horse shoes, hiking trails, and a beach for swimming. Parking is $7 per car. Please car pool wherever possible. Plan to arrive by 10 AM if it is a beautiful day because Grafton allows a limited number of cars in the park at a time and if the parking areas are full, then cars have to wait to get in. Come early and stay for the day! RSVP if possible to Wendy at 518 781 0071 , Trudy at: tquaif@yahoo.com or Joe at 518 439 1968. If you are willing to go early for set up or stay till the end for clean up, please let us know and thanks. Sponsored by North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC) , BNP, Solidarity Committee, Peace Action, Veterans for Peace and other regional peace and justice organizations. Directions to Grafton State Park.

BNP Film Night: THE BIG BUY Tom Delay's Stolen Congress Thursday, July 6, 6:45 - 8:45 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Robert Greenwald's new film,THE BIG BUY Tom Delay's Stolen Congress (2006) "The Big Buy is a feature length documentary that connects the dots between big money and big government. It's not a pretty picture." Tom Delay quote: "By the time we finish this poker game, there may not be a federal government left! Which would suit me just fine." -Tom DeLay, 1994. Join us for the film and the discussion that will follow. Contact 439-8863 for further information.

Eyes Wide Open: New York Friday, June 23, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
West Capitol Park, Albany, NY (Rain Location: Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave.)

"An exhibit that speaks directly to our hearts and reminds us of the human cost of war." This widely acclaimed memorial honors the casualties of the war in Iraq. On display are 117 pairs of empty combat boots, tagged with the names of New York soldiers who have died in the Iraq War and 50 pairs of shoes to represent the thousands of Iraqi civilians who have died during the conflict. Special events throughout the day: Poetry Reading, Reading of the Names of the Dead, Music and Inspriational Speakers. Free and open to the public. Organized by Women Against War, Albany Friends Meeting and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. To volunteer, call Judy at 475-1773. or email: jf@albany.edu Download Publicity flyer.

"Mardi Gras: Made in China" Tuesday , June 6, 7:00 PM The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

The director of the new documentary "Mardi Gras: Made In China" will be presenting his film and answering audience questions. The award-winning documentary follows the path of Mardi Gras beads from the naked streets of New Orleans during Carnival, where revelers party 24/7, to the disciplined factories in Fuzhou, China, where teenage laborers live and thread beads 24/7. Told with humor and curiosity, "Mardi Gras: Made in China" provides a global connection by introducing workers and revelers to each other through a disposable commodity: Mardi Gras beads.
Contact: 439-8863 for further information.Sanctuary for Independent Media

WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE ...OR IS THERE?
Thursday, June 8, NOON, and the program will be repeated at 7:00 pm
Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Avenue, Albany

A little heralded takeover of municipal water supplies by private corporations is insidiously making its way across this country. It is no longer a third world problem. This will be the subject of a talk and discussion by Ruth Caplan who is the National Campaign Coordinator of the Alliance for Democracy's Defending Water for Life Campaign. Co-sponsored by Alliance for Democracy, Bethlehem Neghbors for Peace, Hunger Action Network and Save the Pinebush. Call 439-8863 for more information.

"The Dreams of Sparrows" Thursday , June 1, 6:30 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Anthony Aversano, a member of Peaceful Tomorrows, will introduce this film and discuss the work of Peaceful Tomorrows with us. This is a powerful film, revealing the real cost of war to the Iraqi people.
“Through the eyes of Iraqis, in The Dreams of Sparrows, we can finally divine what emerges from the war's digestive tract...From Baghdad's necropolis of slums and nightmarish refugee camps we travel with Daffar to its middle-class apartments, artists' hangouts, mosques and the headquarters of the Communist Party. This is a city of armed men and of stylish women nervously chain-smoking in their apartments; a city where children studying in a private school hold up crayon drawings and say, "Here the tank is aiming at the helicopter, and they exchange shells and rockets." - Tom Bissel, The New York Times Magazine.

About Peaceful Tomorrows
Peaceful Tomorrows is an organization founded by family members of those killed on September 11th who have united to turn their grief into actions for peace. By developing and advocating non-violent options and actions in pursuit of justice, they hope to break the cycle of violence engendered by war and terrorism. Acknowledging their common experience with all people affected by violence throughout the world, they work to create a safer and more peaceful world for everyone.Peaceful Tomorrows

Protest George Bush At West Point Saturday, May 27,8:00 AM (Bus leaving Albany at 6:00 AM) High Falls, New York (West Point)

Join with us to protest the appearance of George W. Bush at the commencement of the graduating class at the US Military Academy (USMA) at West Point on May 27, 2006. Send Bush and the media the message that the DECEIT and LIES that led us to the War on IRAQ are known and rejected by the public. . Missie Comley Beattie and Elaine Brower of Gold Star Families and Shirley Young of Military Families Speak Out are among the featured speakers. Register for the bus now!

Tentative agenda: Assemble in Highland Falls, NY. (Near West Point - US Military Academy) Veterans Park: 7:30- 8:00 AM. March to USMA Main Gates: 8:30 AM. Veterans Park Rally: 10:00 AM

Getting Organized to Have Local Foods in Your School Next Fall
Saturday, May 20, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

The Regional Farm & Food Project is presenting this workshop to teach parents, students, faculty, staff, food service directors, farmers and food distributors on how to build supply and demand for local foods in our K-12 schools. Participants will learn how the school food systems works, the role of food service directors and food distributors, and the supporting resources available from the state. For more information contact Billie Best at 518-271-0744 or billie@farmandfood.org. Co-Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Community for Renewable Energy & Honest
Weight Food Coop. Download publicity flyer in PDF format.

“The Great and General Interests of Peace”-Julia Ward Howe…Saturday, May 13th 2:00 - 3:00PM. at the corner of State and Willett Streets, at the annual Tulip Festival, Washington Park,Albany Bring your vigiling signs. We will walk through the crowd distributing the Mother’s Day Proclamation by Julia Ward Howe and other flyers. Co-sponsored by NEPAJAC and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. See Women against War (Code Pink) event also at the Pinksterfest, beginning at 12:45 PM.

Al-Maidah: The Table Spread with Food
Sunday, May 7, 2:30 – 5:00 PM
Islamic Center of the Capital District, 21 North Lansing Road, Colonie, New York

ATTENTION WOMEN: Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Meade

On Sunday Women Against War, Bethlehem Neighbors For Peace and WAFA (Womens' Muslim Group) will break bread together as an expression of community. Please join us as we bring a favorite vegetarian dish to share with one another. Bring a copy of your recipe so we may put a cookbook together. Building community. Questions? Contact Lori Coates

ALBANY MARCH FOR PEACE, JUSTICE & DEMOCRACY Friday, April 28, 2006 4:00 PM. Gather at Townsend Park, Albany
March to the Federal Building at 4:30 PM

Open mike at the Federal Building! Unite for change -Let's turn our country around! Too much is too wrong in this country.We have a foreign policy that is foreign to our core values, and domestic policies wreaking havoc at home. The times are urgent and we must act. Call 439-1968 for further information. Publicity flyer in PDF format.

NYC MARCH FOR PEACE, JUSTICE & DEMOCRACY
Saturday, April 29, 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM
Departure from: Eagle Street Garage, Albany (Madison Ave. between Eagle and Philip)

Buses will be leaving at 7:00 AM on Saturday, April 29. (Please arrive by 6:30 AM.)The buses will arrive in NYC before 11 AM. The return buses will leave NYC at 5 PM and arrive back in Albany about 8:30 PM Saturday evening. 4 Buses Now Full. No seats available. Call Joe at 439-1968 for car pool information. For updates on the bus information, go to www.BethlehemforPeace.org or www.NEPAJAC.org for the most current information. Note: For more information about a bus stopping at the Catskill Thruway exit, call Wendy at: (518)781- 0071.
There will be a meeting place for Capital District people who would like to meet up with others from the Capital Region at the the U.S. Labor Against the War Rally on 19th Street, between Broadway & Park Avenue South. (The only entry is on the Park Avenue South side, as Broadway will be blocked off for the antiwar march route.) Meet between 10:30 AM and Noon.

“Fiesta Latina”
Sunday, April 30, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
St. Patrick’s/Holy Family Church, 282 Quail St., Albany
This free program will include flamenco guitarist Maria Zementauski, a bilingual storyteller, and dancing.

Renowned Labor Organizer from Bolivia and a representative from the Venezuela Consulate to be among speakers at Capital District May Day 2006 celebrations!

Monday, May 1, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Bush Memorial Hall on the campus of Russell Sage College, Troy, NY

Speakers include: Claudia Lopez of the Cochabamba, Bolivia chapter of the Federation of Factory Workers of Bolivia. As a member of the Federation, Claudia played a key role in the “Water War of 2000” which reversed the privatization of water in Cochabamba by uniting peasants, environmentalists, teachers and blue and white-collar workers in the fight against the granting of control of the public water supply system to global giant Bechtel Corporation. Susan Gauss, Assistant Professor of History and Latin American and Caribbean Studies, University at Albany. Professor Gauss is an expert on the political and social origins of rising industrialism in post-revolutionary Mexico and issues of gender, class, and violence in the Mexican textile industry. William Camacaro from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Consulate office in New York City. A representative from the Immigrant Rights movement.

Sponsored by The Hudson-Mohawk May Day Committee with members from the Troy Area Labor Council, Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, Eighth Step, New York Labor History Association, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, and others.

For more information about the May Day 2006 Celebration contact Dan Wilcox, 518-482-0262, email: dwlcx@earthlink.net; or Art Fleischner, 438-4206 ext. 202.

From the Front Lines of Iraq

Sunday, April 23, 4:30 - 7:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Join us for an evening with Jimmy Massey, author of Kill! Kill! Kill!, and founding member of Iraq Veterans Against the War. Jimmy will share with us some of his experiences as a platoon sergeant in the 7th Marines during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. A 12-year Marine and former recruiter, Massey transformed his view of the Iraq occupation and began to speak out against the war while he was still in Iraq, after witnessing the brutal treatment and killing of innocent Iraqi civilians by the US military. Labeled as a conscientious objector by his commanding officers, Massey sought legal counsel and won an honorable discharge in December 2003. Massey is now speaking publicly around the world about his experiences. He has been an invited guest to peace conferences with international leaders as well as a member of the southern leg of this past fall’s Bring Them Home Now Tour. We are delighted to welcome him to the Capitol District. For more information contact 518.439.8262. Download the publicity flyer in PDF format .

NEPAJAC
Thursday, April 20, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave, Room 107, Delmar NY

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition Planning Meeting. Please join regional Peace and Justice groups in working together to create
new actions and coordinating our efforts. Call Joe at 439-1968 for further information.

BNP Discussion Group
Monday, April 10, 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Perfect Blend, Delmar, NY

Our gatherings here are are always lively and interesting, with many good ideas discussed among neighbors and friends. NOTE: If possible, please make a purchase when you arrive and be sure to tell the person at the counter that you are with BNP. (We now have a minimum order that we must meet in order to reserve the back room. ) Contact: 439-8262 for further information. New members always welcome!

State of Fear
Saturday, April 8, 7:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Meet Academy Award winner Pamela Yates and producer Paco Onis in person at Bethlehem Town Hall. See their most recent film State of Fear. This film has won the Amnesty International Film Festival Award, Chicago International Documentary Award and the Council on Foundations Award. The film is currently showing in a number of different countries and within the U.S. and receiving rave reviews. The special event will be co-sponsored by the Solidarity Committee of the Capital District and Students for Peace and Survival, Bethlehem Central High School Amnesty International. Refreshments available. Doors open at 6:30, come early and get good seats--don't miss this very special evening. See the trailer for this film.

Documentary: "What Democracy Looks Like"
Thursday, April 6, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

"What Democracy Looks Like" (47 minutes ) by film maker Chun Pan, is a documentary about the antiwar protest in Washington, D.C. on September 24-26, 2005. Join us for an inciteful look at democracy in action. This is an inspiring film that demonstrates why is it important for us to continue to hold mass marches and rallies and to unite for change. Now is the time to reserve your seat on the bus to NYC for the MARCH FOR PEACE, JUSTICE AND DEMOCRACY on April 29, 2006. Contact 439-8863 for further information.

BNP Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, March 28, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Come discuss and plan with us! What is next for the peace movement. locally and globally? One important item on the agenda for this meeting is:Call for Venezuela Solidarity Action and Endorsements. International Call for Venezuela Solidarity Action and Endorsements International Week of Grassroots Venezuela Solidarity Actions: April11-19. No to US ntervention! Respect Venezuela's Sovereignty and Democracy! We will vote on endorsing this action. Also on the agenda: Matt Ellinger from the State Democratic Party will outline the Democratic Neighborhood Network initiative and provide BNP members an opportunity to voice the issues that they wish to be considered by all candidates of the State Democratic Party. Since there is now a primary challenge to current Attorney General Spitzer's gubnatorial candidacy Matt will not be presenting solely on behalf of Elliott Spitzer's campaign.

Help create our upcoming events and actions. Call 439-8863 for further information. New members welcome!

Surround the Federal Building
Monday, March 20, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Federal Building, Albany

We will surround the block in protest of the War in Iraq. Speakers, and music provided. Bring signs and dress for March weather

Sign-On For Peace Campaign
Wednesday, March 15

Set-up day for yard and window signs "Support Our Troops, Bring Them Home Now!", free signs available from over 20 peace and justice organizations participating in SIGN-ON for Peace Campaign coordinated by Woman Against War. Call Joe at 439-1968 to pick up a sign at 201 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. Other sign pick-up locations.

Urban Hammid w/ Deep Dish TV's "Shocking And Awful: A Grassroots Response To War In Iraq"
Wednesday, March 15, 7:00 PM
The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

The NYS Capital Region premiere of Deep Dish TV's "Shocking And Awful: A Grassroots Response To War In Iraq" featuring Iraqi-Swedish journalist Urban Hamid, as part of global observances of the third anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. Urban Hamid, who returned from Iraq in December 2005, has been covering the war and occupation for three years. His footage was used in Michael Moore's film "Fahrenheit 911" as well as the 12-part Deep Dish TV documentary series "Shocking and Awful," which examines the latest violent and highly controversial actions in Iraq. With segments produced by more than 100 independent filmmakers and activist organizations, the impassioned, on-the-ground viewpoint of these broadcasts shows the flipside of the Bush Administration’s “Shock and Awe” military tactics. This project of Deep Dish TV, the original alternative satellite network in America, has been screened around the world--and is currently being featured at the 2006 Whitney Biennial in the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. More information on the Sanctuary for Independent Media.

Documentary: "Fallujah: The Hidden Massacre"
Thursday, March 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Democracy Now Documentary on the U.S. use of Napalm-Like White Phosphorus Bombs. This documentary charges U.S. warplanes illegally dropped white phosphorus incendiary bombs on civilian populations, burning the skin off Iraqi victims. Viewer discretion advised due to the graphic content of this film. Contact 439-8863 for further information.

Canadian Film: The Take
Thursday, February 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Join us for this 87minute film chronicling worker run businesses in Argentina.This political thriller puts the focus on the globalization debate and documents the worker's lives and their struggle. Teresa Meade, BNP member and professor of Latin American History, and of Women and Gender Studies, at Union College, and Andor Skotnes, Sage College (who traveled with her for a part of the tour), will lead a discussion following the movie. Teresa and Andor visited Argentina in December 2005. They will talk with us about Argentina and show us some of the products they purchased from one of the cooperatives mentioned in the film. Contact: 439-8863 for further information.

Dahr Jamail
Monday, January 23, 7:00 PM.
Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Ave., Troy
(at 101st Street where Sixth Ave. turns into Fifth)

Tired of the US media's failure to accurately report the realities of the war in Iraq for the Iraqi people and US soldiers, Dahr Jamail went to Iraq to report on the war and the occupation himself. Now back in the US, he will be showing and providing commentary on: "Caught in the Crossfire - The Untold Story of Falluja" by Conception Media and "Falluja 2004", a film by independent Japanese journalist Toshikuni Doi. Donation. Question and Answer session will follow.Free. Sponsored by: Political Science Dept. –Union College; Political Science Dept. and the Community Services Dept. -College of St. Rose; Peace Action-Albany; Veterans for Peace – Thomas Paine Chapter; Pax Christi Schenectady; Chatam Peace Initiative; Social Justice Center, Albany; Women Against War; Hudson Mohawk Independent Media Center; Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. For more information: 518-869-6674; 518-378-2909; 518-439-8115 or go to: http://www.dahrjamailiraq.com For more information on the Independent Media Sanctuary visit: www.thesanctuaryforindependentmedia.org

Dahr Jamail
Tuesday, January 24, 7:00 PM.
College of St. Rose, St. Joseph's Hall, 985 Madison Avenue, Albany

Tired of the US media's failure to accurately report the realities of the war in Iraq for the Iraqi people and US soldiers, Dahr Jamail went to Iraq to report on the war and the occupation himself. He will discuss his experiences. Free. Sponsored by: Political Science Dept. –Union College; Political Science Dept. and the Community Services Dept. -College of St. Rose; Peace Action-Albany; Veterans for Peace – Thomas Paine Chapter; Pax Christi Schenectady; Chatam Peace Initiative; Social Justice Center, Albany; Women Against War; Hudson Mohawk Independent Media Center; Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. For more information: 518-869-6674; 518-378-2909; 518-439-8115 or go to: http://www.dahrjamailiraq.com

The Future of Food
Saturday, January 14, 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY

Join us for a film and discussion concerning the importance of keeping our food supply local, safe and secure. Beginning at 12:30p.m., Mark Warford, administrator with the East Greenbush Goff Middle School, will present to us how he has produced a working, organic, school garden and recycling program. Mark has presented this program at the 2002 New York State Middle School Conference and received the Governors Award for Waste Reduction and Recycling in 2003. A showing of the film “The Future of Food” by Deborah Koons Garcia follows. This film explains the truth behind genetically engineered food and the attempts of multinational corporations to control the world’s food system. Local, organic and sustainable farming is explored as an alternative to this way of agriculture. Finally, a professional panel will round out the afternoon. Included are: Billie Best, executive director from Regional Farm and Food Project, Carl N. McDaniel, PhD., Professor of Biology at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Louise Maher-Johnson, member of New York State Against Genetic Engineering of food and the Northeast Organic Farming Association. Refreshments and tables for organizational information will be available. Further information available at 518-439-0314.

Hurricane Katrina Relief and the Future of New Orleans:
A “Veterans for Peace” Perspective
Thursday, January 5, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace as we begin the New Year with an evening dedicated to learning about the devastation wrought upon our brothers and sisters in New Orleans, and what we can do to help. Our featured guest will be Elliott Adams, a member of Veterans for Peace who spent the week following Thanksgiving in New Orleans, where he joined the contingent of Veterans for Peace who have been running relief efforts in Louisiana since the first days after Hurricane Katrina. The experiences Elliott will share with us are bound to be heart wrenching first-hand accounts of the utter devastation that to this day dominates the city that was once New Orleans. We will spend the evening learning about this together, and together we will develop constructive ways to assist the individuals, families, and communities whose lives have been ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. Co-sponsors include: Hudson Mohawk Indymedia, Veterans for Peace and BNP.Contact Elaine Hills at (518) 439-8262 for further information.

Skipping in Camp Casey, A film by Chun Pan
Friday, December 9, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, Room 101, Delmar, NY

Join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace (BNP) as we examine the community built out of the grassroots pro-peace movement when Cindy Sheehan and thousands of others held a month-long vigil in Crawford, Texas. Cindy Sheehan, the mother of fallen soldier Casey Sheehan, was instrumental in creating the Camp Casey encampment community in front of President Bush’s vacation ranch in Crawford, Texas in August 2005. We will spend the evening watching and discussing a 54-minute documentary about the community that grew out of the Crawford experience. The discussion will be led by BNP and Camp Casey community member Elaine Hills, who ventured to Crawford as a representative of BNP. Contact: 439-8262 for further information.

Robert Greenwald's new film,"Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Priceso
Thursday , December 1, 2005, 7:00 -8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

"Everyone has seen Wal-Mart's lavish television commercials, but have you ever wondered why Wal-Mart spends so much money trying
to convince you it cares about your family, your community, and even its own employees? What is it hiding? WAL-MART: The High Cost of Low Price takes you behind the glitz and into the real lives of workers and their families, business owners and their communities, in an extraordinary journey that will challenge the way you think, feel... and shop. " For more information call 439-8863. Please Note: A BNP Business meeting will preceed this event. Pleae join us in the creation of upcoming events and actions. (See event listing above.)

The Democratic Party: A Discussion
Sunday, November 20, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Special guests Joshua Frank and Lyn Miller Lachmann will join us for this discussion about the merits of working from within the Democratic Party versus working from without. Joshua Frank is the author of Left Out! How Liberals Helped Reelect George W. Bush (published by Common Courage Press in July, 2005). Lyn Miller-Lachmann is Editor-in-Chief of MultiCultural Review and the author or editor of reference books, textbooks, and a forthcoming novel, an eco-thriller entitled DIRT CHEAP.). Contact: 439-8262 for further information.

Cardboard Chaos: "When The Levee Breaks"
Wednesday, November 9, 7:00 PM
(Pot Luck Dinner at 6 PM)
The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Ave., Troy
(at 101st Street where Sixth Ave. turns into Fifth)

"Once again Cardboard Chaos hits the road in its annual tour to help shut down the U.S. Army School of
the Americas. This November Cardboard Chaos presents a brand new circus, "When the Levee Breaks."
The show features Uncle Sam's Little Global Circus and their provocative mix of circus, puppetry, political satire and original music. "When the Levee Breaks" looks at the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Katrina in the context of race, class, the war in Iraq and the lies of the Bush administration." Click here to visit the Cardboard Chaos website. This event is sponsored by Veterans for Peace, Hudson Mohawk Independent Media Center and BNP. Click here to visit the Hudson Mohawk Independent Media website and for additional information on the location of the Sanctuary.

Iran and Syria: A Dialogue
Thursday, November 3, 6:45- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

John Amidon, Diane Reiner and Carole Ferraro were members of the Academics for Peace delegation to Iran and Syria in September 2005, and participants in Avoiding the Clash of Civilizations Conference at the University of Tehran. They will speak about their experiences:

- We went to demonstrate that dialogue is essential if we are to avoid conflict with Iran and Syria. We met with government and
university officials, spoke with many people from diverse backgrounds, as well as visited outstanding cultural and historic sites.

- Let us continue the dialogue here at home, and become aware of the dangerous process of minformation, isolation and demonization that has begun by the Bush administration with respect to Iran and Syria as a prelude to regime change.

Worlds Apart: 9/11 First Responders Against War
Saturday, October 29, 7:00- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar
Tom Jackson's documentary, Worlds Apart, explores the work of a group of September 11th first responders called Ground Zero for Peace. This organization was founded by Megan Bartlett, a medic who was one of the emergency first responders to the World Trade Centers on 9/11. This is a documentary about the experience of four 9/11 emergency workers who are against the war. Tom Jackson will be available to discuss the film and answer questions. Call 439-8863 for further information.

Marx In Soho
Saturday, October 8, 7 PM and Sunday October 9, 1 PM
3361 6th Avenue at The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

, "Marx In Soho"--a play by Howard Zinn starring Jerry Levy, at the Sanctuary for Independent Media, . Suggested donation $10, to benefit the Hudson Mohawk Independent Media Center and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. For more information visit www.TheSanctuaryForIndependentMedia.org or call (518) 207-6264. Here's a link to a photo: http://hm.indymedia.org/usermedia/image/11/large/portrait3crop.jpg

BNP Movie Night: Beyond Treason
Thursday, October 6, 6:45- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

This 89 minute film documents the U.S. government's long history of experimenting on our Military Troops. What caused Gulf War Illness? This is just one question addressed in this very powerful documentary. Contact: 439-8863 for further information. New members always welcome!

Elaine Hills Reports on Camp Casey
Thursday, September 1, 6:45- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar
Elaine will share her experiences at Camp Casey with us and talk about the success of Cindy Sheehan and her anti-war message. Call 439-8863 for further information.

BNP Pot Luck Summer Picnic
Saturday, August 13, 4 PM - Sunset ( Around 8)

This year's BNP Picnic will be held at the home of Sondra Sprinkling and Michael Rice. This is, weather permitting, an outdoor event. There is no rain date, and if the picnic is canceled due to the weather, there will be an announcement here. They have a 1/2 acre pond so there will be an opportunity to swim, go tubing (bring your own) or walk in the woods. Please bring bathing suits, lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. This will be our long awaited chance to socialize, strategize, organize and have fun! Please bring a dish to share. We will provide plates, cups, cutlery, drinks, ice and watermelon. Join us for some summer fun! Call 439-8863 for further information.

A Call To Conscience:
Finding Our Way in A Troubled Time
Friday, August 19, 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Saturday, August 20, 9:00 - 4:00 PM
The National Kateri Tekakawitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY

Friday: Pot Luck Supper and Colleen Kelly, Blase Bonpane, Bill Quiqley, music by Colleen Katau Saturday: Speakers and workshops.A simple lunch will be included on Saturday. Please pre-register so that lunch can be planned accordingly. Sponsors include Veterans for Peace. For information and tickets call: John Amidon @ 518-312-6442, Maureen Aumand @ 518-869-6674 or Cathy Callan @ 518-439-8115.

"Cowardice asks, Is it safe?
Expediency asks, Is it politic?
Vanity asks, Is it popular?
But Conscience asks, Is it right....." - Alexander Punshon

Documentary Film: The Sacred Run
Saturday, August 6, 1:30 PM
Albany Public Library
191 Washington Ave., Albany

The documentary film "The Sacred Run" will be shown and introduced by its producer and film-maker, Andrea Sadler, who was herself a participant in this 4,000 km run through much of Japan culminating in Hiroshima on August 6, 1995. This international event was conceived and organized by American Indian Movement leader Dennis Banks. The discussion will be followed or accompanied by folding paper cranes, a symbol of freedom from nuclear war. (Co-sponsored by Peace Action and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace).

BNP Movie Night: 911 In Plane Site
Thursday, August 4, 6:45- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar
What really happened on September 11, 2001? A discussion will follow this 97 minute movie. To view a clip of the movie: http://www.911inplanesite.com

"Everyone in America should see this video." --Dick Gregory

Garden Open House and Fundraiser for BNP
Sunday, July 17, 4:30- 7:00 PM
29 Columbine Drive, Glenmont, NY

Join Judith Fetterley and Perenial Wisdom for a Garden Open House to Benefit Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Tour the gardens, discover new and interesting plants. Refreshments provided. $10 donation. Proceeds to support the work of BNP: vigils, forums, the Bethlehem High School Peace Award, the Bethlehem Free Press and other work to promote peace and justice. New members always welcome!

BNP Movie Night: ARLINGTON WEST
Thursday, July 7, 6:45- 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar
A memorial for every soldier killed in Iraq. The film was created by California Veterans for Peace. A discussion will follow this 56 minute movie. Sponsored by Veterans for Peace and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Call 439-8863 for further information.

Border Witness
Saturday, June 4, 7:00- 10:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall Auditorium, 445 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Four local high school students who recently traveled to Mexico will speak on what they learned there about free-trade and the environment. A short film, Witness to Truth, by one of the students will be shown. In a coffeehouse setting, there will also be live music by BNP member and folk singer, extraordinaire, Sean Maden. If you have not yet heard him, don't miss this opportunity to relax with a cup of fair trade coffee and deserts while listening to his music and chatting with your friends and neighbors. Also, included will be a fair-trade fair--fair trade goods for sale. Please come and support our local teenagers who are working for a better world and are the future of our commuinty. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Students for Peace and Survival and the Labor-Religious Coalition..

Whatever it Takes: Class Politics of Romance Novels
and Abu Ghraib
Thursday, June 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Teresa L.Ebert teaches at the State University of New York at Albany. She is author of Ludic Feminism and After and many essays in scholarly and theory journals. A recent interview with her on the contemporary situation appeared in a collection of interviews with contemporary cultural critics, Dialogues on Cultutal Studies, edited by Shaobo Xie and Fengzhen. Contact: 439-8863 for further information.

BNP Monthly Meeting
Monday, May 9, 6:30- 9:00 PM, Bethlehem Town Hall, Rm 101, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar
Join us for a presentation by Andy Coates on: "The Future of Healthcare". We have invited another local organization, Renewable Energy Alternatives Project, to join us for Andy's presentation and a discussion on issues related to peak oil, war and healthcare. We will have a mini-pot luck at 6:30, so please bring a snack to share. (There are no kitchen facilities at this location.) Call 439-8863 for further information.

Are We On The Road To Nuclear War?
Thursday, May 5, 6:45- 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Larry Wittner, Professor of History at SUNY Albany and author of Toward Nuclear Abolition, will discuss the reviving nuclear arms race and the prospects for nuclear war. Contact: 439-1968 for further information.

We arrived in NYC with two buses and a variety of activists and peace marchers. As we marched past the UN, the sun came out and we converged on Central Park early in the afternoon. Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace was represented in several sections of this Peace sign.

Veteran Speaks Out Against Brutality in Iraq
Jimmy Massey, a founding member of Iraq Veterans Against the War
Tuesday, March 8, 7:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Jimmy Massey was a platoon sergeant in 7th Marines during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. After witnessing the brutality of the US military’s retaliation against the growing resistance of the Iraqi people, Massey transformed his view of the Iraq occupation and began to speak out against the war while he was still in Iraq. Labeled as a conscientious objector by his commanders, Massey sought legal counsel and won an honorable discharge in December 2003. Sponsored by Veterans for Peace, Students for Peace and Survival at Bethlehem High School, and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.

Rock for Peace
Saturday, Feb. 12, 6 -10 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall
BNP and Students for Peace and Survival present Rock for Peace, with a number of local bands. Great fun for teens and everyone else too!

The Challenge of Electronic Voting Machines: A Presentation by Bo Lipari
Thursday, February 3, 6:45-8:45 p.m.
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY
Does your vote count? How do electronic voting machines work? How do they affect our democracy? What method of voting will be used in future elections in NewYork State? This non-partisan presentation will provide information about touch screen voting machines (DREs) and their implications for our elections. Bo Lipari has been a professional software engineer for 20 years. He is the director of New Yorkers for Verifiable Voting (www.nyvv.org), a citizens group working for fair, safe, and verifiable standards for voting systems and elections. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. For more info: email jlombard@nycap.rr.com. See a related article from the Ithaca Times...

BNP Proudly Presents
Nobel Peace Prize Nominee
Kathy Kelly!

Saturday, December 11, 7 p.m.
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave, Delmar NY

She has stood in front of tanks and armies throughout the world to witness the innocent victims and to remind the world of the true face of war and the need for social justice. Kelly, one of the founders of the organization called Voices in the Wilderness, has been to Iraq twenty times since January 1996. In October 2002, she joined others in Baghdad to maintain a presence throughout the US bombardment and invasion. Kelly left Iraq on April 19, 2003 and has returned twice since then. In 2000, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Click here for her full biography.

A Day in Afghanistan
A slide presentation with Connie Houde
Thursday, December 2, 6:45 p.m.
Bethlehem Public Library, Community Room

Join photographer Connie Houde for a fascinating slide presentation on present-day Afghanistan, including such photos as the one at left! Connie has traveled several times to Afghanistan with her camera, and with her exquisite sensibilities.

Singing for Our Lives
Saturday, November 6 at 7:00 pm; FREE!
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave, Delmar NY

BNP presents a post election-day concert featuring local progressive musicians: Roger and Me (Terri Roben & Roger Allen), Cavanaugh and Kavanaugh, The Solidarity Singers and others. Join in songs of peace and social change and keep the spirit of hope alive!

Will There Be a New Military Draft?
Thursday, October 14, 7:00 pm
Bethlehem Central High School (Note: new location!)
700 Delaware Ave., Delmar

Will the continuing war in Iraq cause a reinstatement of a military draft? That's what some members of Congress are proposing! A new military draft would change our lives. Will America's young people soon face conscription? Now is the time to get informed.

Presenters: Jacob Levich, One of the founders of People Against the Draft. He will discuss the potential for reinstatement of the Military draft and how we can respond to this possibility now. Levich is a founding member of People Against the Draft, a nationwide non-partisan, grassroots organization of concerned parents, students, educators, and others. A longtime antiwar activist and freelance journalist, he was contributing editor of Research Unit for Political Economy's Behind the Invasion of Iraq (Monthly Review Press 2003), described by Nelson Mandela as "a significant contribution to the debate" on the Iraq War. He is an administrator at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, Long Island.

Dr. Michael Tebbano, Principal of Bethlehem Central High School. Dr. Tebbano will discuss the No Child Left Behind Act and how Bethlehem Central School District is implementing the current law's provisions regarding military recruitment in the high school.

WAR IN IRAQ:
A presentation by Scott Ritter
Saturday, October 16, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave., Delmar

Why did the US go to war? What will be the outcome? Bethlehem resident Scott Ritter is a former U.S. Marine Intelligence Officer and lead weapons inspector with the United Nations until he resigned in 1998. He will reflect on the war in Iraq, discuss how the U.S. got into this debacle and what we can expect in the future. There will be a question and answer period at the end of the presentation.

Scott is the author of: Frontier Justice: Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Bushwhacking of America and Endgame: Solving the Iraq Crisis.

Confronting the Age of Oil Scarcity:
How Sustainable Energy Alternatives Can Work for You.
Saturday October 2, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave, Delmar
Join us for an important discussion of peak oil and sustainable energy alternatives. For those of you who attended The End of Suburbia, we will pick up where that event left off. This forum will cover the global depletion of oil as an energy source, rising energy prices, realistic energy conservation solutions you can take, renewable energy solutions available to all of us, fuel efficiency and more. This event is FREE and open to the public.

Featured Speakers:
Dave Borton (PhD and adjunct professor at RPI),
Jeff Peterson and Bill Reinhardt (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority)
Marion Trieste (Community Energy)

Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, The Better Bethlehem Community Coalition (BBCC), Community Energy, Sierra Club Hudson/Mohawk Group, Environmental Advocates of NY, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Social Responsibility Council of the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of
Northeastern NY. For more information download the flyer or call 439-8262.

Premier Film Showing - Hijacking Catastrophe
Saturday, September 11, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Bethlehem Town Hall
Join BNP on September 11 to view this brand new documentary film entitled Hijacking Catastrophe: 9/11, Fear & the Selling of American Empire (2004; 68 min.). It examines how the Bush Administration has used 9/11 and the war on terrorism to sell the American people on a radical and controversial neo-conservative agenda. This is an exciting chance to see this film on the anniversary of 9/11; it is not yet available in any area theaters. Read a review of the film.

The film showing will be followed by a candlelight vigil to commemorate those who died on 9/11 and in the wars which have followed.

8/29, THE WORLD SAYS NO TO THE BUSH AGENDA!
Massive Protest at the Republican National Convention, New York City
Buses leave at 7:00 AM, CDTA park and ride, Delaware Ave.

Buses from Delmar for the August 29, Rally for Peace and Justice at the Republican National Convention in N.Y.C. If you missed coming with us to the last NYC demonstration, you won't want to miss this historic event! Tickets are $25. Call Joe at 439-1968 or e-mail Paul Tick for tickets or more info. Buses will leave at 7:OO AM from the park and ride. If you can't afford the full price of the ticket, you may pay what you can afford

BNP Summer Picnic and Fundraiser
4:00 PM - Dusk, Saturday, August 21
Bethlehem Town Park Pavilion, Elm Avenue

GET ACQUAINTED...SUMMER FUN... POTLUCK PICNIC AND SILENT AUCTION

We are now over 500 members strong. So come one, come all. The time is
right to become better acquainted, reconnect and support each other. A date
is reserved for just this purpose. Bring the family, some food for
sharing and plan to bid at the silent auction.

Non Violence training for Demonstrators and Vigilers
with Geralyn McDowell
Tuesday, August 24, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
67 Nine Mile Lane, New Scotland.
Call 475-1929, or email sondrasprinkling@earthlink.net for directions, information

This BNP workshop will include a variety of exercises, information and discussion toward developing a common understanding of nonviolence; personal response to violence; personal and communal strategies for nonviolent action/response; travel considerations that build nonviolent community and more. Plus we will have fun! This will be a three hour workshop that will address nonviolence and safety needs and concerns re BNP's weekly vigils, and plans to travel to NYC for the Republican National Convention.

Geralyn is an organizer with extensive experience in direct action and extensive training and research in nonviolent actions. She is currently the director/organizer at Rosa House in Troy. For more information about Geralyn, her email address is: rosahousenotes@yahoo.com .

Outfoxed film showing! (FREE)
7 - 9 PM, Tuesday, July 20
Bethlehem Town Hall
Join us for what looks to be a great new film, Outfoxed. This film, created by MoveOn.org members, exposes the manipulation of the news by the Fox organization and how this impacts on national and international politics. Don't miss it. This film will be shown at thousands of house parties around the country this week. (Read more about the film)

NOTE: If you plan to attend, please register on MoveOn.org so we know how many people to expect (it also streamlines things at the door). Click here to register to attend.

Film Screening and Discussion
The End of Suburbia: Oil Depletion and the Collapse of the American Dream
7:00 - 9:00 PM, June 29
Bethlehem Town Hall

The Bethlehem Better Community Coalition and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace invite you to a community discussion. We will view the documentary film: The End of Suburbia: Oil Depletion and the Collapse of the American Dream, which features local author James Howard Kunstler. Following the documentary, James Howard Kunstler will give a brief presentation, with time for discussion.

Visioning 'Another World is Possible'
with Sondra Sprinkling and Michael Rice of Interhelp and BNP
7:00 PM, Monday, June 28 (Pizza at 6:15)
67 Nine Mile Lane, Delmar

Note: The workshop will be limited to 10 participants and pre-registration is required by June 27th with payment (or commitment to pay) of $10, which includes the food; checks made out to Interhelp. Since space is limited, you are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible, by phone to 439-6065 or 475-1929 or email risprin@earthlink.net, or mail to: Sprinkling Rice, 67 Nine Mile Lane, Delmar, NY 12054.

The mantra of the social justice movement is "Another World Is Possible" or AWIS. This contrasts sharply with the mantra of the publicists for corporate capitalism that "There Is No Alternative" or TINA. Unfortunately, the political adherents to these opposing paradms often talk right past each other and have a hard time finding common ground. The workshop is designed to do two things: first, to clarify for ourselves and together just what heart-felt values we wish the alternative world to incarnate and, second, to seek the common ground we almost certainly share with most of the people who have been taught that there is no alternative (and whom, too often, we have given up on).

p.s. You are encouraged to participate in the weekly Peace Vigil at the four Corners from 5-6 preceding the workshop, and on all other Mondays!

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BNP Public Forum
Muslims under attack in the Capital Region
and around the Country
7:00 PM, Thursday, July 1
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar

Speakers:
Imam Warith-Deen Umar
Shokriea Yaghi (wife of imprisoned and deported Ali Yaghi)

In the Capital Region, attacks on Muslims like Imam Umar, Ali Yaghi, and Ansar Mahmood have had serious consequences, ranging from the loss of a job to deportation to imprisonment. We are now learning of additional attacks against Muslims in this region. These attacks are a part of the general campaign of intimidation against Muslims that has been going on in this country since 9/11.All of these attacks have put a chill on freedom of speech and other democratic rights, especially among Muslims.

Such attacks are designed to intimidate Muslims in the United States and everyone else who has spoken out against U.S. government policy. Today more than ever, it is essential that we stand behind our most vulnerable citizens and oppose attacks against Muslims and others.

ie Forum on Iraq

On May 23, 2004, BNP sponsored a 2-hour forum entitled "Countdown to Sovereignty: How Iraq's Past May Shape Its Future" (More than 100 people came to listen to two professors and an Iraqi feminist/activist present their views of Iraq's past, present and future. Sobering, informative, thoughtful, necessary, enriching -- these were some of the adjectives listeners used to describe the forum afterwards.

Afghanistan: A Fragile Peace
Sunday, Feb 29, 4:30 - 6:30 PM,
Town Hall, Bethlehem

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace hosts this multimedia presentation of Connie Frisbee Houde's trip to Afghanistan in 2003. Using music, slides and voice she describes what she experienced and what she has learned about this country which is struggling to recover from years of war.

She presents many images of the people of Afghanistan giving a touching connection to a far away land. Connie has also traveled to Bosnia, Mexico, Jordan, Peru, Vietnam and Cambodia. One week after the presentation, Connie will be going again to Afghanistan. We hope you will join us for this very special event.

Anniversary Vigil For Peace
Sunday, February 15
12 - 1pm, 4-Corners, Delmar

Take a stand for peace on February 15, the one-year anniversary of the historic day when more than 15 million people around the world took to the streets to protest the Iraq War. Vigils are planned for cities across the United States and around the world. Refreshments will be served and the conversation promises to be inspirational and informative. See you there!

A Modern Day David and Goliath Story: Who Owns Life? An Evening with Percy Schmeiser. Monday, January 26, 7 - 9 PM. "If you can patent a plant, what about birds, bees and animals - and ultimately humans? Where does it stop?" First Lutheran Church of Albany, 181 Western Avenue between Quail and North Lake, Albany, NY. (Please use the 646 State St. entrance). Percy Schmeiser, a life-long farmer and seed saver from Bruno, Saskatchewan, Canada, and former mayor and member of the provincial legislature, has spent the last five years embroiled in a battle with Monsanto after the its patent-protected Roundup Ready canola contaminated his fields. This 73-year-old has become an international folk hero in the struggle against genetically engineered crops and global domination of our food supply by a handful of corporations. His landmark case against Monsanto will be heard by the Supreme Court of Canada, just 6 days before his Albany appearance. Mr. Schmeiser will be available for interviews during his visit to Albany.

Organized by the Regional Farm & Food Project. Co-sponsors include Honest Weight Food Coop, Siena Program for Sustainable Land Use, the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York, The Nature Institute, Save the Pine Bush, and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Free and open to the public. A 5-$10 donation at the event is suggested to help defray Percy Schmeiser's legal expenses. Contact Tracy Frisch, Regional Farm & Food Project, 518/271-0744, farmfood@capital.net

Precarious Peace: God and Guatemala
72-Minute Documentary Film, with the writers/producers!
Sunday, January 25, 3 - 5 PM
Delmar Presbyterian Church Meeting Room
585 Delaware Ave, Delmar

The first part of the film focuses first on the brutal violence of the 36-year war in Guatemala, seen through the eyes of a rural Guatemalan family, and then explores the peace process that finally silenced the guns in 1996. The second part looks at more insidious levels of violence, still operative today-in particular the economic, racial, and religious marginalization of Guatemala's Mayan Indian population. This film was funded in part by the United States Institute of Peace. The film's producers and writers, Rudy and Shirley Nelson of Albany, will attend this presentation and will be available afterward for discussion. Presented by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.

BNP 1st Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, January 18
Candlelight Peace Vigil: 5-6 PM, Meet at 4 Corners
Celebration Dinner: 6:15, Hidden Cafe (details below)

Peace Vigil: Everyone is invited to join fellow members of the local community in a Candlelight Vigil for Peace starting at 5 PM on Sunday, Jan. 18. The vigil will commemorate our first vigil at 4 Corners in Delmar one year ago, where over 100 people helped begin our ongoing weekly vigil for peace (usually Mondays from 5-6 PM). The candlelight vigil will meet at 4 Corners, with a short procession to Veteran's Park and back. Please bring candles/holders or flashlights, etc, and park at the Municipal Lot on Kenwood Avenue (or walk to the event). As always, please consider carpooling to this event.

Celebration Dinner: 6:15 - on, Sunday January 18, Hidden Cafe, Delaware Plaza, Delmar. This is a fun, private event open to BNP members and family to help celebrate our first year as an organization! Buffet Dinner (Chicken, Fish, Pasta, Pita and Salad, Soda, Coffee). Adults: $20, Children $6.95 (separate kids menu of chicken fingers, fries and soda). Cash bar: beer-$3, wine-$4. There is a minimum of 35 people, with a maximum of 65 allowed, so please register right away! If you wish to attend the dinner you must send a check made out to "BNP." You may send the checks to Sondra Sprinkling at 67 Nine Mile La., Delmar, 12054. The checks must be received by Sat., Jan.10th in order to hold a reservation and there will be no refunds. The first 55 people to send checks will have a confirmed reservation. You may call Sondra at 475-1929 if you have any questions. Sorry, no refunds possible.

Action Alert: Preserving Our Civil Liberties
A FORUM ON THE USA PATRIOT ACT AND
CIVIL LIBERTIES POST SEPTEMBER 11

Sunday, January 11, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall, 445 Delaware Ave., Delmar

Speakers:

Diane Berry, American Library Association, Intellectual Freedom Committee
Nancy Ota, Albany Law School, Professor, Immigrant's Rights
Dominick Calsolaro, Albany Common Council, Ward 1
Marggie Skinner, The Book House, Community Liaison, representing views of American Booksellers Association.
Melanie Trimble, New York Civil Liberties Union, Executive Director, Capital District Chapter

Sponsored by: Bethlehem Bill of Rights Defense Committee, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, New York Civil Liberties Union-Capital Region Chapter, League of Women Voters, Veterans for Peace-Albany Chapter, and Center for Law and Justice.

Free Screening of the Groundbreaking New Film:
"Uncovered: The Whole Truth About the Iraq War"

Sunday Dec. 7, 4:00 p.m., Bethlehem Town Hall, Auditorium, 445 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Film Screening: 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Discussion of the film and the issues: 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

We need you to sign up to join us: http://action.moveon.org/meet/selectmtg.html?event_ids=2076
(click the check box by this event, and then the "Select Event" button)

About the film: This controversial and arresting film takes you behind the walls of government, as CIA, Pentagon and foreign service experts speak out, many for the first time, detailing the lies, misstatements and exaggerations that served as the reasons to fight a "preemptive" war that wasn't necessary. This documentary offers an in-depth look at the unsettling distortion of intelligence and the "spin and hype" presented to the American people, the Congress and the press. Fighting wars to bring about regime change is in breach of international law. Yet, throughout the fall of 2002, and into the weeks preceding the war in Iraq, the Bush administration systematically distorted intelligence evidence and misled the public in order to turn opinion favor of "regime change" in Iraq.

The film will present interviews with more than 20 experts, all of whom have informed opinions about the reasons we were given for war and the evidence presented to support those reasons. Some supported the war itself but are deeply concerned about the way information was misused. All believe it is their duty to speak up.

Among those interviewed are former Ambassador Joe Wilson, weapons inspectors Scott Ritter and David Albright, anti-terrorism expert Rand Beers, former CIA analyst Ray McGovern, former CIA operative Robert Baer and Washington editor of The Nation, David Corn.

For more info. including video clips: http://www.truthuncovered.com/home.cfm

Weathering the Politics of Fear: Personal Accounts of Coping with Political Repression and Discrimination

A Public Forum presented by
Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace

Thursday November 13, Delmar Reformed Church; 7:00 p.m.
386 Delaware Ave. (at the “Four Corners”)

View/print Event Flyer (pdf format). Please help distribute this flyer widely!

This forum will feature: Imam Warithu-Deen Umar, founder and president of the National Association of Muslim Chaplains, retired after 25 years as Chaplain, Supervisor/Trainer and Ministerial Program Coordinator for the NYS Department of Correctional Services, where he supervised all religious services, Christian, Jewish and Islamic, in the Western region of the state. Helen Adler, long associated with the Humanities Institute of Life-long Learning at the Bethlehem Public Library, storyteller Joni Goldberg, and Dr. Mo Hannah, Associate Professor of Psychology, Siena College. This Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace public forum is a part of a week-long examination of the impacts of and defenses against the political misuse of real and imagined fear and culminating in a full-day conference (see below).

Confronting the Politics of Fear:
A People’s Assembly

Saturday, November 15, Albany High School
8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Many local organizations are coming together for this important gathering at Albany High School to build the movement for peace and justice in the Capital District. Keynote speakers are Damu Smith, Founder and Director of Black Voices for Peace, and William Rivers Pitt, Managing Editor of Truthout.org and author of War on Iraq; What Team Bush Doesn't Want You to Know and The Greatest Sedition Is Silence. Dozens of workshops on ending the occupation of Iraq; corporate globalization / FTAA; confronting racism; Middle East; ; electoral politics; indepedent media; grassroots activism; and much more. Don’t miss this event! To pre-register ($25 suggested donation) contact maumand@nycap.rr.com, or 869-6674. Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace is one of the sponsors of this major local event. Visit the conference website.

Update and Action Alert to BNP Members from BBORDC

(Click here to read a pdf of one student's account of the Sept. 24 Town Board Meeting, as printed in the Bethlehem Central High School political magazine "The Word" on 9/30/03)

At its meeting of 10/14, the BBORDC (Bethlehem Bill of Rights Defense Committee) made the following decisions. Due to difficulties in getting the necessary support to go forward at this point even with a revised resolution, we have agreed that we will no longer attempt to get this particular board to pass a resolution. In January we will begin again with the newly elected board. We have also decided that we will hold off on placing our ad in the Spotlight until we begin our campaign with the newly elected board. Finally, we have agreed to hold another forum on the USA Patriot Act in January and have set the date for Sunday, January 11, from 2 to 4, location to be announced.

Between now and January, we will be engaging in the following actions and seek BNP member support:

1) letters to the editor in the Spotlight every week dealing with some aspect of the civil liberties/ Patriot Act issue
2) letters to George Lenhardt urging him to
support the revised resolution
3) a petition drive to get resident signatures in support of our resolution

These actions are informed by our belief that it is important to keep our issue before the public, hence the letters to the editor.

We also believe that George Lenhardt, who will be continuing on the board, left the door open for a change of mind on this subject; hence the need to convince him that this is a local issue and that there is local support for it. Finally, we hope the petition drive will educate people as well as provide evidence of support for our resolution. We ask BNP members to write letters to the editor of the Spotlight, letters to Lenhardt, and to help us with the petition drive. For more information on how you can help with the petition drive, call or email Andy Coates (475-9257; esquincle@capital.net), Judith Fetterley (475-1773; jf@albany.edu); or Jane Streiff (439-4673).

The BBORDC welcomes suggestions from BNP members as to how to proceed on getting a resolution passed by the Town Board. We also would love to welcome new members; we can use some fresh energy as we move into our second season of effort. To share suggestions and/or express interest in joining BBORDC, call or email Judith Fetterley. Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, November 12, at 7 at the home of Judith Fetterley. Those interested in knowing more about the national BORDC should check out the BORDC.org website.

Michael Parenti Forum

by Leslie Hudson and Dan Rain

October 6, 2003

Over 250 people gathered at Page Hall on Tuesday, Sept. 30th to hear internationally known author and lecturer Michael Parenti speak on the subject of U.S. aggression and corporate globalization. During this most recent Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace public forum, co-sponsored by SUNY Peace and Justice and Campus Action, Dr. Parenti gave an historical analysis of U.S. foreign policy. He specifically cited dozens of examples which demonstrate a pattern of U.S. military and CIA-backed involvement in the invasion and overthrow of (often democratically elected) governments of other sovereign nations. The leaders of these states had in common the desire to use their resources for the betterment of their own people, and made the fatal mistake of challenging the dominant paradigm of global capitalism and "free" trade at the people's expense.

These coups and invasions, perpetrated to enhance foreign investment opportunities, have resulted in the deaths of millions of people and the destruction of countless others' lives worldwide. The U.S. uses the slogans of "freedom" and "democracy" as motives for these invasions, while in fact destroying those very ideals and replacing them with facism. Dr. Parenti's assessment of this pattern of U.S. foreign policy is that it has been carried out through a highly intelligent and well-planned conspiracy of the economic elite; and that it has, unfortunately for the majority of the world's citizens, been remarkably successful in achieving its objectives while deceiving the American public in the process.

Some pundits have tried to argue that American motives in these invasions are not primarily economic, by suggesting that protecting a few billion dollars of investment with hundreds of billions worth of military intervention doesn't offer a good return. However, an important distinction Dr. Parenti asks us to remember, is that these interventions cost hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer money, while they protect a few billion dollars of private investment money. "In fact," Parenti quipped to strong audience laughter, "the people who own the world usually spare no expense in using your money to protect their money."

Dr. Parenti explained that some of his students at U.C. Berkeley have disagreed with his critique of our national leaders, citing their "faith" and "trust in the president." "Democracy isn't about trust," he reminds his students and all of us, "it's about distrust," about numerous checks and balances and open accountability to the people. During his concluding remarks, he reminded the audience that democracy is about action. We all need to take action, if we hope to take back our country from the hands of the few, rich elite who currently control our nation and the world. He recommends that we continue to organize and protest, write and email our representatives in government, get out the vote in the 2004 presidential election to replace Bush, speak our minds and speak the truth. For more information about Parenti and his 17 books, visit www.MichaelParenti.org. For more information about Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and our future public forums and other events, please visit www.BethlehemforPeace.org.

Mass Vigil on Sept. 11

One hundred and fifty people attended the Bethlehem Neighbors of Peace September 11 Vigil for Peace. The candle light vigil was organized in honor of those who died on September 11, 2001 and the 2 wars in the 2 years that have followed. Hy Kuritz, a World War II veteran, retired SUNY History and Education Professor and member of Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace gave a moving and informative talk. Statements were then welcomed from any participant and moving statements were given by many, from the very young to seniors, veterans and others. The vigil was one of the 120 national Circle of Hope vigils organized around the country in support of Peaceful Tomorrows, a group of family member of people who died on 9/11/2001 who have united to turn their grief into action for a peaceful world. Their website is www.peacefultomorrows.org .

Scott Ritter Speaks at the Bethlehem Town Hall

Former UN Weapons Inspector and Bethlehem resident Scott Ritter was the
featured speaker at the latest forum sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.
Nearly 400 people packed the main auditorium at the Bethlehem Town Hall to
hear Ritter's talk, entitled "The Other Face of Patriotism." The standing
room-only crowd heard Scott Ritter discuss the falsifications used by the Bush
administration to lead the country into an unjustified war against Iraq. Ritter
asserted that the administration's main claim--that Iraq had weapons of mass
destruction--has proven to be incorrect; therefore, there was no
justification for the war. He explained that patriotism is not blindly following
whatever policies the government puts forward but making one's voice heard, even if
it is in opposition to those polices. The talk was followed by a 45 minute
question-and-answer period.

Ritter's talk was especially relevant given the recent revelation that
the statement made in Bush's State of the Union address regarding Iraq's
acquisition of nuclear material from Niger was false. This news, coupled with the
continued inability of the US forces to find any evidence of weapons of mass
destruction and the increasing resistance of the Iraqi people to the US
occupation, has been swaying US public opinion against the Bush administration's
policies on Iraq.

The forum also announced the recent publication of Ritter's new book,
"Frontier Justice: Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Bushwacking of America."
The book will soon be available in book stores.

The crowd at the forum gave Scott Ritter a very warm reception for
his courage in continuing to speak the truth to power. Ritter was given
standing ovations at both the beginning and the end of his presentation.

WAR ON THE BILL OF RIGHTS?
A FORUM ON THE USA PATRIOT ACT

On SUNDAY JUNE 8, at the BETHLEHEM TOWN Hall, 125 people heard a forum on the War on the Bill of Rights and the Patriot Act. The speakers include: Melanie Trimble, Executive Director, Capital District New York Civil Liberties Union; Susan Novotny, Owner, The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza; Barbara Nichols Randall, Director, Guilderland Public Library ; Barbara Weiner, Greater Upstate Law Project and the meeting was chaired by Judith Fetterley, Distinguished Teaching Professor and Dean of Undergraduate Studies at the University at Albany/SUNY.

The speakers gave very informed presentations on the attacks on civil liberties since 9/11 and especially on the patriot act and its implications for civil liberties. A one-hour discussion period followed the presentations. The discussion indicated a depth of feeling about these attacks within the Bethlehem community.

The forum was organized by the Bethlehem Bill of Rights Defense Committee, which is a sub-committee of Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Judith Fetterley, representing the committee explained that the Bill of Rights Defense Committee and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will be pursuing a resolution from the Bethlehem Towm Board in support of civil liberties and against the Patriot Act.

Links related to this subject and pictures of the forum are below.

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace

Home || Coming Events || Links || BNP Projects || NEPAJAC Events

Past Events:

May 27, 2006 Protesting Bush at West Point || BNP Annual Summer Picnic|| Loose Change

BNP Film: The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers

BNP Film and Discussion: Blind Spot - - a documentary film on peak oil and sustainability

Annual Crossgates Mall Walk
Thursday , December 20, 5:15 pm -7:00 pm
Crossgates Mall, Albany

From the Front Lines of Iraq

Surround the Federal Building
Monday, March 20, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Federal Building, Albany

Sign-On For Peace Campaign
Wednesday, March 15

Urban Hammid w/ Deep Dish TV's "Shocking And Awful: A Grassroots Response To War In Iraq"
Wednesday, March 15, 7:00 PM
The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

Documentary: "Fallujah: The Hidden Massacre"
Thursday, March 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Dahr Jamail
Monday, January 23, 7:00 PM.
Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Ave., Troy
(at 101st Street where Sixth Ave. turns into Fifth)

Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace

Home || Coming Events || Links || BNP Projects || NEPAJAC Events

Past Events:

May 27, 2006 Protesting Bush at West Point || BNP Annual Summer Picnic|| Loose Change

BNP Film: The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers

BNP Film and Discussion: Blind Spot - - a documentary film on peak oil and sustainability

Annual Crossgates Mall Walk Thursday , December 20, 5:15 pm -7:00 pm Crossgates Mall, Albany

From the Front Lines of Iraq

Surround the Federal Building Monday, March 20, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Federal Building, Albany

Sign-On For Peace Campaign Wednesday, March 15

Urban Hammid w/ Deep Dish TV's "Shocking And Awful: A Grassroots Response To War In Iraq" Wednesday, March 15, 7:00 PM The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

Documentary: "Fallujah: The Hidden Massacre" Thursday, March 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Dahr Jamail Monday, January 23, 7:00 PM. Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Ave., Troy (at 101st Street where Sixth Ave. turns into Fifth)

Annual Crossgates Mall Walk
Thursday , December 20, 5:15 pm -7:00 pm
Crossgates Mall, Albany

Surround the Federal Building
Monday, March 20, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Federal Building, Albany

Sign-On For Peace Campaign
Wednesday, March 15

Urban Hammid w/ Deep Dish TV's "Shocking And Awful: A Grassroots Response To War In Iraq"
Wednesday, March 15, 7:00 PM
The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 6th Avenue in Troy (at 101st, where 6th Avenue turns into 5th Avenue)

Documentary: "Fallujah: The Hidden Massacre"
Thursday, March 2, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Dahr Jamail
Monday, January 23, 7:00 PM.
Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Ave., Troy
(at 101st Street where Sixth Ave. turns into Fifth)