Community Resource Directory Agenda Publications
P. O. Box 3624 Ann Arbor, MI 48106 (313) 996-8018
Purpose
AGENDA is a monthly newspaper that focuses on the concerns and activities of grassroots organizations n the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area. The largest section of the paper, the "Community Resource Directory" (CRD), provides local community action organizations the opportunity to give basic information on their background and current work. The "Calendar" emphasizes meetings and community events and "Readers Write" is a forum in which individuals or groups can write in depth about a concern or topic. AGENDA'S news and feature articles provide coverage of events that do not find their way into the local media on a regular basis. We welcome students, activists, and community residents to help us with this enormous effort and are especially in need of: advertising representatives (commission paid), typists, distributors to take half-hour to one-hour routes every month, writers, proofreaders, photographers, business experts, and fundraisers. If you are a student, you can receive credit through an independent study or a field work assignment. Current News AGENDA is currently gearing up for a mini-phonathon in search of new subscribers. The exact dates depend upon when we send out the advance mailer to potential subscribers. The tentative dates for the phone work is somewhere around Dec. 8 to 10. If you can spare a few hours to make phone calls for AGENDA, please cali our office to volunteer. We still need tons of help doing everything from typing to artwork to editing to writing to ad sales. A little time or a lot - AGENDA needs your help to function as a voice for Ann Arbor's grassroots community and not-for-profit alternative news source. Deadlines for January Issue Dec. 13: Deadline for Feature News drafts. Dec. 15: Deadline for ad space reservations. Dec. 19: Deadline for CRD for November issue. If hand delivered, please call 996-8018 for our new address. Deadline for photos and graphics. Deadline for Calendar listings. Dec. 21: Camera-ready ads due. (2080)
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Performance Network
408 W. Washington
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
313-663-0681
Purpose
The Performance Network of Ann Arbor is a collectively-run, intÃmate theater including additional shop, storage, and workshop space. It is designed to promote the development, production, and presentation of politically-committed experiments and original work in all the performance arts. The Performance Network is available to other arts organizations or individuals for rent at a nominal fee as a performance space, shop, or workshop. We provide resources to the community in the form of space and equipment, outreach and educational programs, and creativity in the various media. We exist to provide an arena for artists to do the work they love and to share their vision with the public. Ultimately, we hope - as our name implies - to function as a liason for artists, political organizations, and the community. See the CALENDAR for December Events.
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Ecology Center of Ann Arbor
417 Detroit Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(313)761-3186
Purpose
The mission of the Ecology Center is to channel community resources into meaningful action on environmental issues. The Center does this through advocacy, education, and service on both local and statewide levels.
Community Services
Membership in the Ecology Center is available for $15/year. Members receive several benefits including ten issues/year of the Ecology Center newsletter. Send membership dues to the Ecology Center. All houses in Ann Arbor are eligible for a curbside pickup of your used newspapers, glass, and cans. Call 665-6398 to find out your recycling day, or bring materials by our drop-off station at 2050 South Industrial, open 9:304:30 every Friday and Saturday. Ecology Center 100% Recycled Paper greeting Cards are now available Found at the Farmers Market, several local stores, and at 417 Detroit Street, proceeds from cards benefit the Ecology Center. New designs by Jonathan Wright and Greg Wilkinson. The Leslie Science Center may be scheduled for use as an environmental field trip for groups of students of adults. Call 761-3186 to set up your FREE tour. Also open to the public is the Ecology Center's 3,000 volume environmental library at 417 Detroit St. Come in and browse 1:00-5:00 Mon-Fri, 9:30-1:00 Saturdays. Now At The Center This month is a cold one, and the Ecology Center's Home Energy Works program has been booming. Home Energy Works is an energy conservation program designed to benefit homeowners, renters, and landlords by training residents to use no-cost and low-cost weatherization procedures, and distributing weatherization materials. A free service to income-eligible residents, the Center's Energy Team makes house calis, even in this day and age! On a typical Home Energy Visit, the team will arrive at a home at a pre-determined time. ft is important that the resident of the home be there while the home visit is going on. A Home Visit may start out with the Energy Team and the resident going through the home together, looking tor obvious sources of heat loss. Some, like a door that does not seal tightly may be obvious. Other causes of energy loss, like a refrigerator placed right next to a stove, are less blatant, and are remedied. By the end of the Home Visit, the Energy Team has begun much of the weatherization work helpful to a home. The Team has trained the resident on how to apply such energy-saving materials as caulk and hot water heater blankets, and will leave extra materials for the now proficient resident to apply. What better way to prepare for winter than ann educational hands-on program where weatherization materials are left, free of charge, with residents? To schedule your Home Energy Visit, cali 76131 86 for an appointment.
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Greenpeace
400 W. Washington
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
761-1996
Purpose
Originally founded in Canada in 1971 to oppose U.S. nuclear testing at Amchitka Island in Alaska, Greenpeace is now a global network extending across 15 nations. We are ecologists actively working to protect a fragile world. Ecology teaches us that all forms of life are interconnected and interdependent and that we need to respect the diversity of life as we respect ourselves.
For that reason we are involved in a variety of environmental campaigns: curbing the use of toxic Chemicals, halting the dumping of nuclear and other toxic substances, stopping the whale and seal slaughters, challenging the nuclear powers to stop testing as a first step to ending the arms race, supporting the people of the Pacific in their efforts to keep their islands nuclear free, and seeking to make Antarctica a world preserve.
Current News
The Greenpeace "Water for Life" campaign continues. The campaign's most recent Great Lakes news comes from Midland, Michigan, home of Dow Chemical and from Hammond, Indiana.
In Midland, Greenpeace toxic experts met with Dow executives to discuss waste reduction. Fundamental differences in thought were apparent but it gave Greenpeace an opportunity to present it's zero discharge philosophy of source reduction technology and recycling of toxics to the people who need to know it most. No direct actions by Greenpeace against Dow were conducted at the time but future actions are not ruled out.
Afterward, on Sept. 19, a press conference and meeting between Greenpeace and top level officials in the Governors' office in Lansing was held to address again the source reduction topic.
As was reported in Sept.'s AGENDA Greenpeace carried out a direct action against the Stauffer Chemical Co. of Hammond, Indiana. Stauffer is in the business of incinerating toxic wastes. Documented environmental problems have already been caused by the company. This year they applied for a permit through state and federal agencies to burn 342 more chemicals shipped in from various parts of the country. The hanging of a 75-foot "Ban the Burn" banner by Greenpeace members on a Stauffer smokestack drew enormous public awareness to the problem. Success! In Oct., Stauffer withdrew it's permit application citing "public opposition" as a major factor in their decision.
Greenpeace is preparing for our Antarctic expedition. Along with scientific research, one goal is to bring attention to this almost forgotten but very unique and important ecosystem. Greenpeace is working to have Antarctica given World Preserve status.
This would prevent the exploitation of its resources and protect it in the interest of all humankind. By setting up camp for a year, we would then be eligible to be included in the Antarctic Treaty Organization and have input to stop plans of future oil and mineral exploitation.
We are circulating an Antarctica Declaration internationally, which will be presented to the United Nations showing world support for World Preserve status. Copies of this petition are available at the Greenpeace office in Ann Arbor, for interested individuals.
In Ann Arbor, we are gearing up for our winter canvass. Any committed people should give the Ann Arbor office a call. (3280)
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Gay Rights
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Gay Liberation
4117 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
INFO: 763-4816
HOTLINE: 662-1977
Purpose
To provide information, counseling, and related social services for people concerned about sexual orientation: (1) maintain Hotline for crisis intervention, peer counseling, referral; (2) help provide factual information to offset prejudice and misinformation about lesbians and gay men; (3) work to obtain human and civil rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation; (4) help lesbian and gay men's groups organize; (5) link to other community groups.
Meetings and Membership
Our meetings vary according to purpose; we do most of our work in subcommittees (counseling, group work, education, civil rights). Call for time and place.
Our group includes U-M students, staff, and faculty, and people from the larger community. We have a President, Vice-president, Secretary and Treasurer. At present we have approximately 50 members. We're a registered nonprofit organization.
Community Services
Hotline: Crisis intervention, peer counseling, referral.
Education: Workshops and conferences on lesbian and gay male concerns, with an emphasis on how people in the helping professions and teaching professions can work positively with lesbian and gay male clients, patients, students.
Speakers Bureau: Call for information.
Human and Civil Rights: Information and referral to help people who are being discriminated against because of their actual or presumed sexual orientation or their presumed "cross-gender" characteristics; lobbying for human and civil rights.
Community Organization: Information and help on organizing groups, setting goals and objectives, addressing conflict, linking to other groups and resources.
Current News
A person's home may be her or his castle but having a castle necessitates first finding a home. Although the U-M and City of Ann Arbor have non-discrimination policies concerning housing, discrimination against lesbians and gay men continues.
A few weeks ago two women applied for a one-bedroom apartment at an Ann Arbor rental management office. They were told that they could not rent an efficiency or a one-bedroom apartment, although unmarried female-male couples could rent such units. The secretary was sympathetic to the women's request but could not override management's policy. People can file formal complaints about housing discrimination on the basis of sex as well as on the basis of sexual orientation. Some complainants may wish to conceal their orientation and can do so by filing solely on the basis of sex.
Students experiencing housing discrimination at the U-M are invited to speak with their residence hall advisors, with the Lesbian-Gay Male Programs Office at 763-4186, or with the Affirmative Action Office at 764-3423.
Anyone experiencing housing discrimination at private dwellings, including apartment complexes, within the Ann Arbor city limits is invited to call the Lesbian-Gay Male Programs Office or the Human Rights Office at City Hall, 994-2803. Complainants are also urged to call the Michigan Dept. of Civil Rights at 313-256-2663 or 517-373-7634, and the ACLU contacts, Ann Marie and Don Coleman, at 662-5189.
The Lesbian-Gay Male Programs Office maintains a list of attorneys who are skilled and experienced in litigating cases involving civil rights discrimination.
Thirty years ago Adlai Stevenson urged us "to feel strongly, to be impatient, to want mightily to see that things are done better." Today we can only respond, "Yes, and l'm acting on my feelings that my rights are respected and preserved." (3602)
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Health Issues
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Wellness Networks, Inc.-- Huron Valley (WNI-HV)
P. O. Box 3242
Ann Arbor, Ml 48106
662-6134
Purpose
WNI-HV aims to educate the general public about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) as well as to provide support and direct care to people with AIDS (PWA's), people with AIDS-Related Complex (ARC), and individuals concerned about AIDS. Our service area encompasses the greater Huron Valley area.
Membership and Meetings
Any individual is welcome to work with the organization as a volunteer and/or board member. Current membership includes men and women from all walks of life: health care professionals, educators, therapists, members/representatives of high risk groups, and individuals from the general public.
General meetings are held the second Sunday of every month and are open to all. The next meeting is December 14, 3:30 to 5:30 pm at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, Ann Arbor (enter through outpatient entrance). (944)
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Human Rights
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Big Mountain Support Group
2619 S. Main
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
663-9119
Purpose
The Big Mountain Support Group formed in response to requests for aid from the Dineh (Navaho) people at Big Mountain in Arizona. Ten-thousand native families face relocation to hostile environments, so that the U.S. Government and energy companies can gain complete access to the uranium and coal in this area to meet perceived U.S. energy needs.
The issues surrounding relocation are complex. The situation has been misrepresented in the media, which has consistently reported that a land dispute between the Hopi and the Dineh lies at the root of relocation, rather than addressing the manipulation of both groups by the U.S. government, the blatant and severe violation of human rights in removing people from their homes and from their social and economic support systems, and the continuing destruction of the environment with no regard for life.
The original deadline for relocation indicated in PL 93-531 was July 7, 1986, but because costs had not been met, relocation was postponed. The actual costs of relocation are five to seven times the amount determined in the 1974 law. Despite the delay plans for relocation are going forward and it is essential that we continue to listen to the voices from Big Mountain and act to stop U.S. government intervention in native affairs.
We are working on community education and on fundraising to help meet the needs of the people at Big Mountain, with the ultimate goal of repealing PL 93-531.
Activities
We want to thank everyone for their support at the showing of Broken Rainbow and the benefit dance in early November. Future activities include continuing the sale of t-shirts and of raffle tickets for rugs made by Dineh elders, a letter-writing day to express our views on relocation to members of Congress, another benefit to be held in January, and future showings of Broken Rainbow. The slide show "Trouble in Big Mountain" is available free to groups for showing. We welcome all suggestions concerning education and fundraising.
Meetings: Call 663-9119 or 996-4937 for time and place. (2144)
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November 29th Committee for Palestine (N29)
c/o MSA
3909 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
764-6958, 764-5011
Purpose
N29 is an American activist organization dedicated to working for the human and political rights of the Palestinian people. We view the U.S. as the leading deterrent to a just resolution to the Palestinian-Zionist conflict; therefore, the majority of our activities are geared to educating the American people about the history of the Palestinian-Zionist conflict, and about the true nature of Palestinians' fight for their rights. We believe that such educational work will help develop public pressure on the administration, to cause it to change its policies in the Middle East. Also, we analyze the Palestinian struggle in the context of struggles for liberation around the world. We seek to build solidarity among groups working in support of liberation movements.
Meetings and Memberships
N29 meets every Friday at 5pm in the Michigan Union. Specific locations for meetings are available at the information desk. Members must agree with N29's bylaws and principles of unity. Officers are elected yearly; decisions are consensual. We do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, or religion.
Recent Events
Our most recent event has been three days of "Middle East Awareness, in Solidarity With the Palestinian People," which we cosponsored with the Ann Arbor chapter of the Arab-American University Graduates. Rabbi Elmer Berger spoke on "The Israel-America Axis: Peace Seekers or Rejectionists?"; we showed the films "Gaza Ghetto" and "On Our Land"; and we celebrated Middle Eastern culture with poetry, music, dancing, and a slideshow on the Middle East.
News from Palestine
Unsurprisingly, upon taking office, Yitzhak Shamir expressed his government's support for the continued and expanded building of settlements in the West Bank. Israel at this time controls approximately 60% of the West Bank's land and resources. Contrary to popular belief, the Labor government years have been no kinder to Palestinians inside the green line and in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Over the past fifteen months, since August of 1985, over 30 Palestinians have been expelled from their homeland; over 150 Palestinians have been placed under administrative detention without charge or trial; the use of collective punishments such as house sealings or demolitions and the harassment of entire communities continues to be used as part of the "Iron Fist" policies.
Amnesty International's recent report of Israeli human rights abuses documents cases of torture in Palestine and in Lebanon, where- despite the "withdrawal"- 1,000 Israeli soldiers remain. Al highlights the case of Adnan Mansour Ghanem, who was tortured while held in an Israeli prison from Dec. 1985 until Feb. 1986, when he was deported to Jordan. Lea Tsemel, Ghanem's lawyer, said Ghanem's was the worst case of torture in her long career of defending Palestinian prisoners.
According to Kathleen Smith of AI's New York press office, Ghanem's case is "typical of other cases." Al has previously documented the brutal conditions faced by prisoners in Ansar prison in southern Lebanon, where Israel held approximately 12,000 Palestinians and Lebanese prisoner in 1982-83. Israel now helps the South Lebanon Army run Khiam prison in Israel's "security zone" in southern Lebanon, which Israel has occupied since 1982. Copies of the Al factsheet on Israeli human rights abuses are available from: Amnesty International, 322 8th Ave., New York, NY 10001. (4146)
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Gray Panthers of Huron Valley
1209 Island Dr, #103
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
663-0786
Purpose
Part of a national organization whose concerns are alleviation of injustice, of deprivation, of threats of global nuclear destruction, among other social lis., the local network this year s concentrating on bringing awareness of the need for HEALTH CARE REFORM to the area public. Plans are underway in coalition with like-minded organizations and agencies, to mount a public forum some time in early 1987.
Meetings
Monthly, Sept. through June, at 2 to 4PM, in the 2nd Floor Conference Room, Ann Arbor Fire Station, 107 N. 5th Ave. This month, Sat., Dec. 13th, is to lay the groundwork for the planned forum. Topic: "Health Care Reform Needs" Open to all interested parties, 663-0786.
Membership Profile
Any age individual willing to be an activist for addressing and alleviating some of the many social inadequacies still afflicting our nation and world. Action-oriented people are the mainstay. We work in coalition with other groups for common goals. Our community service often lies in contribution of time and effort with other agencies.
Organizational Structure
Through a Steering Committee, open to any member, and with two elected officers - a secretan and a treasurer. Planning and action emerges via consensus.
Current News Some fast-breaking developments are anticipated for reporting in the near future. Reminder, also, that COVENANT Kits (for a World Free of Nuclear Weapons, $5) with updated Buyers' Guide, continues to be available from the Interfaith Council for Peace. (1598)
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Labor
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Graduate Employees Organization (GEO)
802 Monroe #3
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(313)995-0221
Office Hours: MF:12:30 pm-4:30 pm, TW: 9:30 am-1 :30 pm, Th: 10:30 am-1 2:30 pm, 2:30-4:30 pm.
Purpose
To represent all Graduate Student Assistants in collective bargaining with the University of Michigan, thus protecting Staff and Teaching Assistants against deterioration in economic compensation, real wages, working conditions; and to address graduate employees' common concerns, such as excessive class size, teacher training, reallocation of University funds from administration overhead to actual teaching, and the ideals of nondiscrimination and affirmative action.
Meetings
Regular membership meetings are held monthly, announced ten days in advance and posted on GEO bulletin boards and published in the "University Record." The next membership meeting will be Jan. 14, 1987, 7:30 pm in the Kuenzel Rm of the Michigan Union.
Current News
In Oct. the University failed to make dues and fees deductions at the new rate - determined last March - and they deducted at fractions of about half the true fractions. Your total payment should be your fraction multiplied by $72.50. Be prepared for a second deduction in Nov.
Members are being sought for the GEO bargaining team, which goes to work in March. Besides pressing economic issues, the team will work toward limiting class size and clarifying job descriptions. Send your input to the team via the GEO office.
Members for the ad hoc Research committee, which will look into the U's long term plans for TA's, are still being sought. If interested contact Bill Shea at the GEO office. (1760)
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Industrial Workers of the World (IWW)
Southeastern Michigan General Membership Branch
42 S. Summit
Ypsilanti, Ml 48197
483-3478
Purpose
To promote the ownership and control of all means of production and distribution by the working class which creates all social wealth through its labor. In the short run, the IWW helps workers organize for increased democracy in the workplace, as well as for increased wages and benefits. The Union promotes its purposes through workplace organizing and education with an emphasis on direct action as the most effective means for workers to achieve their goals.
Meetings and Membership
Every Monday (except holidays) 6 pm, Room 4304, Michigan Union, 530 S. State, Ann Arbor. Observers are welcome.
Area membership includes the majority of the employees at: Ann Arbor Tenant's Union, People's Wherehouse, University Cellar, and several other employees, both employed and unemployed, homemakers and students who are in agreement with the Union's principles. The IWW has approximately 110 members in this area. The initiation fee is $5. Dues are $5 per month for workers making more than $300 per month, $2 per month for anyone making less than $300 per month.
Community Services
Labor-organizing: Members of the IWW are available to advise and assist anyone engaged in organizing which will promote worker control, regardless of whether the organizers ultimately desire affiliation with the IWW. We also participate in efforts to support workers struggling for justice from their employers and their Unions by joining in picketing, promoting boycotts, fundraising and other direct act ons.
Current News
In Nov. members of the I.W.W. here hosted a visit by Denny Mealy, a member of Local P-9 of the United Food and Commercial Workers in Austin, Minnesota (home of Hormel Foods). The P-9 workers have been engaged in a protracted struggle against both Hormel and the United Food and Commercial Workers Union to obtain a decent contract under which to return to work. A former UFCW lawyer now working to defend the P-9 workers has accurately described the situation as a Union sponsored lockout of the workers. Mealy headed back to Minnesota with a palette of food for the strikers donated by the People's Wherehouse (IWW branch), and a check for $100 donated by the UCellar branch.
The People's Wherehouse branch has successfully negotiated a new contract with the Michigan Federation of Food Cooperatives. The contract features a base wage (after probation) of $7.50 per hour, rising to $7.70 in Oct. of 1987. The package also provides for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 weeks vacation for workers. A high degree of worker participation in decision making negotiated in the previous contract was protected. No strike was necessary to achieve the contract, although a widespread bout of nausea, perhaps brought on by management's requests for concessions, did cause cancellation of an inventory scheduled to occur in the midst of negotiations. (2984)
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Maoist Internationalist Movement (MIM)
P.O. Box 3576
Ann Arbor, Ml 48106
Purpose
MIM is a communist group that upholds Mao and the Cultural Revolution and views the current Soviet Union and China as state capitalist. MIM members are world citizens, not Americans, and therefore uphold internationalism as a guiding vision.
The MIM strategy for revolution and social change is premised on the building of a vanguard party that upholds the mass line and leads anti-imperialist and anti-militarist educational work. Concretely, MIM distributes a free literature list, MIM Notes, a newsletter, and MIM Theory. MIM Notes and MIM Theory are 30 cents. The literature list is free.
December Events
There will be a "Contemporary Relevance of Mao Study Group." The first discussion will be on the Cultural Revolution on December 7 at 7 pm - place to be announced. Readings include Jean Daubier's "A History of the Chinese Cultural Revolution" or Jean Esmein's "The Chinese Cultural Revolution," E. L. Wheelwright and Bruce McFarlane's "The Chinese Road to Socialism." (1088)
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Socialist Labor Party (SLP)
P.O. Box 7505
Ann Arbor, Ml 48107
747-8210
The Socialist Labor Party (SLP) works for the establishment of a socialist society in which the economic machinery and process as well as the services will be owned by everyone in common and operated democratically for the benefit of all. All vestiges of capitalism will be abolished.
Southeast Michigan members and sympathizers of the SLP distribute socialist literature in the area promoting class consciousness and providing the information necessary for a successful socialist revolution. You are welcome to become a member or sympathizer and join us in our activities. National Office: SLP, 914 Industrial Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94303. (718)
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Latin America
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AMISTAD Construction Brigade
802 Monroe
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
761-7960
The AMISTAD Construction Brigade's acronym stands for the Ann Arbor-Managua Initiative for Soil Testing and Development. The brigade is a group of local people who will be travelling to Nicaragua in January in order to construct a soil and water testing laboratory on the campus of the Institute for Advanced Agricultural Sciences (ISCA) in Nicaragua. The facility will be used to test soil and water so that farmers may better determine how much to fertilize and irrigate their land. The facility will also be used to train technicians.
AMISTAD is as project of HAP-NICA- the Humanitarian Assistance Project for Independent Agricultural Development in Nicaragua- which is part of an international effort to construct a soils analysis facility in Managua. The Italian government is providing the laboratory with $2,000,000 worth of soil and water testing equipment while the Dutch government is providing $20,000 to help build the facility. AMISTAD is responsible for $30,000 to buy and ship the tools and materials necessary to construct the building.
The AMISTAD project is conducted in a spirit of solidarity with the Nicaraguan people and their revolution which is currently being threatened by the contra war waged against them by the U.S. government. The group hopes that lasting ties between the people of Nicaragua and the United State can be made through projects such as this one.
Meetings
A2MISTAD's meetings are open to all, Sundays at 7:30 pm in the Michigan Union. Ask for the room at the information desk. AMISTAD is a group of about 30 Ann Arbor community residents and students. The group is still recruiting people who would like to work on the construction in Nicaragua for at least four weeks between March and July. Skilled persons including plumbers, masons and health care workers are especially encouraged to join us.
Current News
The month of November was one of AMISTAD's most exciting to date! On the 5th, the first concrete blocks of the soils laboratory were laid at the construction site in Managua by Nicaraguans and members of the Ann Arbor Sister City Delegation who were on their way to Juigalpa. AMISTAD would like to thank the delegation for representing Ann Arbor at this ceremony. Ten days later, the group here in Ann Arbor loaded up construction tools and materials headed for Nicaragua, hopefully to arrive just before the brigadistas do on January 6.
A send-off party for the construction brigade will be held on Friday, Dec. 19, time and place to be announced. Everyone is invited. On Dec. 1, English folk/rock/punk hero Billy Bragg will be performing at the Nectarine Ballroom in a benefit for the AMISTAD Construction Brigade and Amnesty International. On Dec. 6, folk singer John McKutcheon will return to Ann Arbor to play at The Ark, with partial proceeds going to AMISTAD. Please join us for these spectacular musical events. (2962)
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Peace & Disarmament
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Ann Arbor War Tax Dissidents/U.S. Peace Tax Fund
c/o Mary Lou Kerwin
1427 Broadway
Ann Arbor, Ml 48105
662-2838
Purpose
Ann Arbor War Tax Dissidents (AAWTD) works for passage of the U.S. Peace Tax Fund bill (a law permitting people morally opposed to war to have the military portion of their taxes allocated to peacemaking), and provides counseling and information resources for persons conscientiously opposed to payment of war taxes. AAWTD is affiliated with the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee (NWTRCC) and with the National Campaign For a Peace Tax Fund (NCPTF). AAWTD is of an informal nature with a diverse membership and a volunteer coordinator.
Meetings
AAWTD generally meets the third Saturday of each month in the Pine Room, Wesley Foundation, 602 E. Huron, Ann Arbor.
Community Services
AAWTD provides the community with a speakers bureau, workshops, forums, information hotlines (contact appropriate number listed below), and "Taxes for Peace" (a slide show). For information, contact:
Mary Lou Kerwin at 662-2838 for general information about AAWTD.
David Bassen at 662-1373 about the U.S. Peace Tax Fund bill.
Fran Eliot at 663-2655 about war tax resistance.
Upcoming Events
No regular meeting in December or January. Planning and working meetings are being held. If interested, please call Mary Lou Kerwin. A series of three workshops on "Conscience & Military Taxes: The Role of the Individual Taxpayer in Supporting Military Taxes" will be starting on Jan. 15 to discuss legal and alternative uses for our tax money. The topic January 15th is national and international efforts to create legal "alternative service" for tax dollars, 7:30 to 9:30 pm in the Ann Arbor Public Library Meeting Room. (1754)
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Washtenaw County Women's Action for Nuclear Disarmament, Inc. (WAND)
P.O. Box 1815
Ann Arbor, Ml 48106
761-1718
Purpose
WAND's primary purpose is to educate ourselves and the public about the dangers of continued nuclear arms buildup and to influence our congressional representatives by informed lobbying. Another overall goal is to empower women personally and politically.
Washtenaw County WAND is affiliated with the national WAND organization which was founded in 1980 by Dr. Helen Caldicott. The local group currently has around 400 members and affiliates; there are more than 25,000 national members in 125 chapters.
Meetings and Membership
Meetings are open to the public on the second Sunday of the month at St. Aidan's Episcopal/Northside Presbyterian Church, 1679 Broadway, Ann Arbor. Doors open at 7 pm for conversation and sales of WAND items, the meeting begins at 7:30 with the program or speaker at 8:30; the meeting concludes at 9:30 and babysitting is provided. Call 761 -1718 for details.
Membership is open to anyone interested in stopping the arms race. Membership fees are $25 per year with scholarships available for those unable to pay the entire amount. Contact Barb Carson at 662-7851 for more details.
Activities
In the past, WAND has sponsored the Mother's Day Festival of Peace in West Park twice, participated in commemorations of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and in other rallies, participated in Peace Week at Huron High, sponsored several training workshops, and helped found the Second Congressional District Coalition for Peace. Call our Information Hotline at 761-1718 for a message announcing important lobbying information, meeting times, and upcoming community events.
Our Speaker's Bureau provides trained speakers who will address groups, classes, and public forums and rallies on a variety of issues. Interested persons including non-WAND members may participate in Speaker Training workshops. Contact Jean Carlson at 426-2232.
Current News
WAND's Dec. 14th meeting will be a combined event with Beyond War. From 5 to 7 pm, they will present the Spacebridge of the Americas in the Modern Languages Building, a satellite downlink during which Beyond War's annual award will be presented to the presidents of the four Latin American Contadora nations. Audiences in 8 cities in both continents will participate.
Immediately following the Spacebridge on Dec. 14 WAND will hold a holiday dinner and perspective on Nicaragua at St. Aidan's/Northside Churches, 1679 Broadway. Joyce Chesborough, from the seventeen member Ann Arbor Sister City Delegation to Nicaragua, will speak about her experiences. There will also be some singing of peace and holiday songs. The dinner will begin at 7:30 with the speaker at 8:30. Cost of the dinner is $2 per person.
In Oct. and Nov. WAND sponsored a panel on U-M research policy changes and participated in the forums at Rackham. The final meeting was preceded by a candlelight vigil on the steps of Rackham with about 50 participants.
Ten or fifteen WAND members plus family and friends went to Washington on Nov. 15 to commemorate the end of the Great Peace March.
WAND sponsored an adopt-a-candidate phone fundraiser for Harold Wolpe from the neighboring 3rd U.S. Congressional District and many WAND members had also actively worked for Dean Baker. The election results were hopeful, especially Baker's challenge to Pursell, the most effective in ten years. (3500)
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Poverty & Hunger
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Bread For The World
706 Dwight Street
Ypsilanti, Ml 48198
487-9058
Purpose
Bread for the World (BFW) is a citizens lobbying organization that deals with hunger and health related legislation. Although BFW does not send any direct aid itself, the organization has given crucial support to domestic and international hunger programs since its founding in 1971. Members are encouraged to contact their legislators on hunger issues and are kept informed through newsletters, background papers, and informational meetings about pertinent legislation.
Meetings
Bread for the World is organized by Congressional Districts. in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area there are two chapters and due to the holiday season neither group will be meeting in December. For more information contact Jim Rutz (Ann Arbor area) at 668-4064 or Robert Krzewinski (Ypsilanti area) at 487-9058.
Current Events
With the adjournment of Congress recently, Bread for the World reached many important victories in terms of hunger legislation. Foremost was the passage of the Universal Child Immunization Act that would seek to achieve worldwide infant immunization by 1990. Other successes include passage of domestic child nutrition programs, continued support of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (which helps third world farmers achieve self-sufficiency) and also further funding for famine relief programs.
In 1987 Bread for the World will continue to fight for passage of hunger legislation, especially that which addresses the growing problem of hunger and malnutrition in our own country. Until Congress convenes those concerned about hunger issues are urged to contact their elected representatives to support reauthorization of the House Select Committee on Hunger, which in the past has helped make hunger an important issue and has also given crucial support for the funding of such issues. (1900)
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World Hunger Education-Action Committee (WHE-AC)
4202 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
663-3560
Purpose
WHE-AC is a campus-based organization whose focus is on educating the community on the causes of- and solutions to- world hunger. Our goal is to understand the complex social, political, economic, and environmental forces that both create and promote world hunger. We recognize that true development can only be achieved by empowering people on a grass roots level. We organize protests with this perspective in mind. Consequently, we work with Oxfam America and the Institute for Food and Development Policy.
Meetings
All are welcome to come and be a part of WHE-AC. General meetings are on Mondays at 6:30 pm in the International Center (check at the front desk for room). Project meetings will be held during the week. If you are unable to attend on Mondays but would like to be involved, contact WHE-AC.
Current News
WHE-AC would like to thank everyone who participated in this year's Fast for a World Harvest, Oxfam America's nationwide fundraiser for its self help development projects. In addition WHEAC uses the fast to raise funds for hunger programs in Ann Arbor and Detroit. We also use the opportunity to raise awareness of hunger in the community. We were fortunate to have John Hammock, the executive director of Oxfam America, in Ann Arbor on the day of the fast. He spoke on "Hunger. Technology, and Change." Other events took place in the dorms as a part of the fast. If you missed the fast, it is not too late to make a contribution. Checks may be sent to WHEAC to be distributed to Oxfam and local food programs.
Another major project WHEAC is organizing is Hunger Watch, a joint effort with Pirgim to document hunger and the services provided to the hungry in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Detroit, and Lansing. Interviewers are in the process of talking to directors, staff, and participants in the various programs. This study is the first of its kind done in Michigan by an independent organization. WHEAC and Pirgim will be publishing the findings in March. Hunger Watch is a big project, and the more volunteers we have, the more information we can gather. If you would like to get involved or would like more info, contact Cindy at 662-9765.
WHE-AC member Sandra Steingraber, who spent 3 months in Sudan interviewing Ethiopian refugees, has published an article about her experience in the latest issue of "Cultural Survival."
In addition to studying local hunger, WHE-AC is planning to volunteer as a group at the shelters and in some of the meal programs in town. We will be discussing this in our Dec. meetings. On Dec. 14 there will be a Volunteer Training Session at 4 pm Ann Arbor Shelter at 420 W. Huron. The Shelter provides a safe warm place for the homeless to spend the night. It is already operating beyond capacity as its service becomes more critical in the winter months. If you would like to volunteer, contact Bumble Marshall at 994-3179. (2988)
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Progressive Religion
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B"nai Brith Hillel Foundation
1429 Hill Street
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
663-3336
Purpose
Hillel is a central cultural and educational resource for both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities of Ann Arbor. Programs range from cultural arts series to political series to a Jewish Learning Center. Counseling is provided for anyone on an appointment basis. Call Hillel at 663-3336 for more information. (400)
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Interfaith Council for Peace (ICP)
604 E. Huron
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
663-1870
Office Hours: 9:30 to 5:00, M-F.
Purpose
Interfaith Council for Peace (ICP), a nonprofit educational organization, believes in the possibility of a world where every woman, man, and child has the opportunity to live in freedom, peace, and without fear. Begun in 1965 by a small group of area clergy and lay, ICP focused on protesting U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Over the past 20 years Interfaith's work has expanded to address justice concerns related to hunger and agriculture in addition to the ongoing work for peace.
ICP, a local chapter of the national Clergy and Laity Concerned (CALC), has worked to educate and promote action on these issues. We act as a clearinghouse for peace and justice activities in local religious congregations and in the community at large. Interfaith raises moral questions about disarmament, hunger, the U.S. food system, economie justice, and Central America. Donations are gratefully accepted at the above address. ICP's membership includes 60 area congregations and approximately 3,100 individuals. A Steering Committee oversees the work of the staff and the work of four task forces: Disarmament Working Group, Land, Food, and Justice Committee, Hunger Task Force, and the Religious Coalition on Central America.
Community Services
ICP publishes a monthly newsletter, maintains a lending library of both written and audio-visual materials on peace and justice concerns, and has a speakers bureau which includes both staff and task force members.
"Covenant for a World Free of Nuclear Weapons" kits are available from the ICP office for $5. The kit lists nuclear weapons contractors, the consumer products they manufacture and non-nuclear alternatives. The second edition of "There is a Season," a 117 page seasonal cookbook is available from the ICP office for $6. Drop in and visit us soon. The ICP office is located in the basement of the First United Methodist Church (corner of State and Huron). (2026)
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New Jewish Agenda (NJA)
2208 Packard
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
662-9217
Purpose
New Jewish Agenda (NJA) is comprised of Jews from a variety of backgrounds and affiliations who are committed to progressive human values and the building of a shared vision of Jewish life. Our history and tradition inspire us.
We believe that Jewish experience and teachings can address the social, economic and political issues of our time. Many of us find inspiration in our people's historical resistance to oppression, the Jewish presence at the forefront of movements for social change, the Jewish religious concept of tikun olam (the just ordering of human society and the world), and the prophetic tradition of social justice.
We are committed to building an inclusive Jewish community and therefore place particular importance on addressing issues which traditionally exclude many Jews.
NJA participates in a wide range of activities. Our cultural and religious celebrations include a monthly Shabbat potluck and holiday get-togethers. Our most active interest groups are the Middle East Interest Group and the Feminist Interest Group. Both groups work to define a progressive Jewish approach to these issues and build coalitions with others in the wider community. NJA members are also active in Central America work and social justice issues at home. Join us. (1360)
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The Zen Lotus Society
Zen Buddhist Temple-Ann Arbor
1214 Packard Road
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
761-6520
"It is you who must make the effort. The masters only point the way"
The Dhammapada
The Zen Lotus Society, a nonprofit religious organization and North American Buddhist Order, was founded by Samu Sunim in the late summer of 1967 in his flat in Manhattan, NYC. It was established with a view to spreading Buddhadharma in America through teaching the practice of Zen and promoting Buddhist culture. Zen Buddhist Temple-Ann Arbor was established in 1981 and now serves as the U. S. office of the Zen Lotus Society.
Zen Buddhist Temple Ann Arbor was established in 1981 and now serves as the U.S. office of the Zen Lotus Society.
The temple's members and residents form a community of people devoted to spiritual growth through meditation practice - sitting quietly on a mat, walking in mindfulness, chanting, and working in the world. Inner peace and self-awareness which can extend into everyday life are developed.
Zen practice can be valuable to the activist or politically oriented person and to anyone's everyday life really. This runs counter to the popular belief that spiritual practico involves only "inner" development and is therefore apolitical or an escape from reality. Such is not the case. Many Zen practitioners have been active in peace/anti-nuclear, environmental, and rights issues, are mothers, professionals, tradespeople, students, etc. Meditation practice gives one an "inner home" from which to participate in the world. Understanding peace on an individual level fosters a deeper intuition for peace on other levels. Through spiritual practice the centered, calm, awakened mind is carried eventually into all other endeavors. One can act without hatred, anger, ego, or burnout.
The Meditation Service at the temple each Sunday from 5 pm to 7 pm , and Tuesday evening chanting from 7 to 8 pm are open to the public. Beginners Courses in Zen Meditation and Practice are offered regularly. (2036)
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Senior Citizens
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Housing Bureau For Seniors
1010 Wall St.
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
763-0970
Carolyn Hastings, Executive Director
Carole Lapidos, Volunteer Coordinator
The Housing Bureau for Seniors provides housing counseling to senior citizens and their families in Washtenaw County. Main offices for the Bureau are located in the tower building of the Kellogg Eye Center, 990 Wall St., in Ann Arbor.
Out-county outreach sites are located in Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti Township, Whitmore Lake, Chelsea, Saline and the Burns Park Senior Center.
Housing Counselors are recruited and trained to provide information and to assist with housing-related decisions. When helping seniors find suitable housing in this area, housing counselors have needed to turn more and more often to private apartments. Ann Arbor's senior population is rising; the number of subsidized housing units for seniors has remained constant for a number of years. Even in the private senior housing market, few rooms are available county-wide at any given time. Increasingly, seniors are making do in individual apartments.
As rents increase, therefore, more and more seniors are beginning to feel pressured. In a survey of local apartment complexes conducted in Dec., 1985, the Housing Bureau found no one-bedroom apartments available in Ann Arbor for less than $300 a month. Only two buildings, in fact, had a $300 rent for a one-bedroom apartment. According to the Ann Arbor Community Development Office, the average apartment in town rents for $425 a month. This is more than most seniors, the majority of whom live on social security alone, can afford. Housing Counselors at the Bureau are preparing to take action on this issue, joining forces with other concerned citizens to become advocates for affordable housing initiatives.
In particular, housing counselors have sided with tenants in support of a resolution to require that property owners give a year's notice before converting apartment buildings to condominiums. Carolyn Hastings, Executive Director of the Housing Bureau for Seniors, recently addressed a public hearing of the Ann Arbor City Council on behalf of this measure.
Future plans for the Bureau will be directed toward taking a more active stand on behalf of senior tenants in this community. Individuals or other agencies wishing to join with the Housing Bureau are invited to contact the Bureau at 763-0970.
If you have questions or concerns about senior housing, for yourself or for a friend or family member, contact the Housing Bureau for Seniors, 763-0970. Ask to talk with one of our counselors. Though donations are happily accepted, Bureau services are free. (2658)
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South Africa
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Adopt a Political Prisoner of Apartheid (APPA)
906 South University
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
Purpose
Formed in the fall, APPA is a new organization on the University of Michigan campus which is working in conjunction with the national APPA movement. This nationwide project, started by two members of the House of Representatives, Congressman Conyers and Congressman Gedjenson of Michigan and Connecticut, is modeled after Amnesty International's Prisoner of Conscience Campaign for Soviet Jewry.
This humanitarian project seeks to achieve two goals. It will create a human link between the people of South Africa and the United States by writing the prisoner's family. APPA will also strive to prevent the torture of political prisoners by lobbying in the United States and abroad.
Meetings
APPA meets 6:30 to 7:15 pm every Thursday night in Room 111, West Engineering Bldg. Meetings are organizational in structure. Our immediate goal is to gain the endorsements of as many faculty and student organizations as possible.
Current News
APPA has gained widespread support in a short time. Plans are being made for the presentation to the Regents of the University on January 14, 1987, as well as a press rally near that date. It is our goal to have the University of Michigan adopt two political prisoners. Anyone who is interested should plan to attend our next meeting. (1378)
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Free South Africa Coordinating Committee (FSACC)
c/o Michigan Student Assembly
8309 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
971-7994 or 769-8549
Purpose
Formed in the spring of 1985, FSACC is a multi-racial campus-based group which is committed to opposing the brutal system of Apartheid in South Africa as well as racism in this country. FSACC produces literature and organizes educational events which examine Apartheid and expose ways in which U.S. institutions (including the University of Michigan), underwrite that system.
FSACC is also involved in grassroots efforts to change the policies and practices of our government and university which provide direct support to the Apartheid regime or reflect insensitivity to the aspirations of the majority of the country's disenfranchised Black population.
Current News
On Thursday, Nov. 6, FSACC joined the University of Michigan Center for Afroamerican and African Studies to host a talk entitled "Will South Africa Explode?' by Dr. Marsipula Sithole, a visiting scholar from the University of Zimbabwe teaching this term at Michigan State University. Addressing an audience of about 100, Dr. Sithole drew comparisons and contrasts between the situation in South Africa today and that of Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) on the eve of ts independence in 1979.
Responding to a question about the military might and alleged invincibility of the South African Defense Forces, Dr. Sithole recalled that former Prime Minister of Rhodesia Ian Smith pronounced less than a decade before independence that "it will be a thousand years before we tolerate black rule in Rhodesia." It was a very short 1,000 years.
The following Monday, Nov. 10, FSACC hosted an anti-Apartheid reggae benefit at Rick's Cafe which earned several hundred dollars for operating expenses and our Material Aid Drive for South African refugees. In addition, FSACC will soon have an office/resource center - more like a large closet - on the fourth floor of the Michigan Union. So step by and visit.
Upcoming Events
Regular Monday night meetings will continue through December at 6:30 pm in Room 111 of the West Engineering Bldg. There will be a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. FSACC members will also be speaking at the Nov. 20 Regents meeting to remind them of our intentions to win University recognition for Nelson Mandela and support for local anti-racist issues. The latter include efforts to improve financial aid resources, minority endowment and retention; quality of campus life; and make Martin Luther King's birthday a University holiday. (2590)
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Women's Issues
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Women's Crisis Center (WCC)
P.O. Box 7413
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48107
Business line: 761-9475
CRISIS LINE: 994-9100
Purpose
The purpose of the Women's Crisis Center is to help women help themselves gain control and dignity in their lives by providing non-judgemental support, education, and resources.
WCC volunteers provide free peer counseling and crisis intervention for all women in the Washtenaw County area. We also organize educational and supportive groups, workshops, and activities.
WCC is a not-for-profit, collectively run organization made up of community women concerned with the needs of all women. Our funding is primarily from private donations. We depend on community support to be able to continue providing the services we have been for the past 14 years. We strongly encourage all women who want to work to change society to get involved in active, empowering work with other women.
Community Services
The Crisis Line: 994-9100, operates everyday, 10 am to 10 pm. Callers are guaranteed anonymity and can talk with a peer counselor who s there to provide non-judgemental support.
Referrals: WCC offers over 500 referrals to agencies and individuals in and around Washtenaw County. WCC also sells low-cost do-it-yourself divorce kits.
December Events
(See the CALENDAR section for additional meetings and events)
Wed., Dec 3: First of one-night, monthly Women's Self-Defense Workshops, 7:30 to 9:30 pm, Anderson 'D' in the Michigan Union, $3 donation requested. Week of Dec. 14: "Celebrating Winter Solstice" workshop and ritual will be held for women and men at Guild House (802 Monroe). Call 761-9475 or 662-5189 for time and day. All month: WCC sponsored sale of Syracuse Cultural Worker's 1987 Peace Calendar - $7.95- They're really beautiful!!- and "Cooking for the Oral Majority" Cookbook - $2.50. Available in many locations- co-ops, bookstores, and at the Women's Crisis Center.
Current News
We've had an exciting fall and are anticipating a great winter full of lots of warming activities. There is lots of news and lots that's new!
We had a hugely successful phone-a-thon during the week of Nov. 10. Thank you!! to every volunteer that gave their time, offices that let us use phones, area pizza companies that donated pizza, and to each person that made a pledge of financial contributions. We raised about $6,000 in pledges! (That's about 25% of our annual budget!) Though we called lots of giving people in the community we were unable to reach many others. If we missed you and you would like to make a contribution, please call us or send a donation. (Keep in mind that this is the last year charitable donations are tax deductible using the short form. Next year the long form will have to be used and itemized to make deductions.)
We are working to address the need in this county for more temporary emergency housing for women and children. Interested in helping develop a network of homes? Nov. 23 was our first planning meeting. Call WCC for information on what's being planned and how to get involved.
WCC is working together with the Assault Crisis Center and U-M Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center to set up a new volunteer Court Accompaniment Program. Volunteers will work with ACC counselors and sexual assault survivors who are prosecuting assailants. We need volunteers with flexible schedules (to coincide with court unpredictability). Training will begin in Jan. or early Feb. Call WCC or ACC for more information.
We are also looking at trying to start working on making some of our dreams come true - including an Ann Arbor Women's Center. WCC is starting to look into how to get a house to establish as an Ann Arbor Women's Center for us and other feminist organizations. If you have any helpful ideas (or an extra house!) call us! Another idea is starting a women's newspaper (annual, monthly, bimonthly? - it all depends on volunteers, energy, and lots of work. Another idea is to provide more workshops, films, groups, and networking farther from U-M campus area. The best way to find out about us s to get active in what we're doing. Call or come by any time! (4202)
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Other
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E Washtenaw County ACLU
277 E. Liberty
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
Purpose
The American system of government rests on two principles. The first, widely understood and accepted, is that the majority of people, through elected representatives, govern the country. That is the democratic principle. The second, less understood and often abused, is that the power of even a democratic majority must be limited to insure individual rights. That is the libertarian principle.
The concept of limiting the majority is part of the genius of the traditional American system, invented nearly 200 years ago. While the rest of the U.S. Constitution authorizes the government to act, the Bill of Rights sets limits. It describes what the government may not do. Even a democratically elected government is not permitted to take away from the people their inherent rights to freedom of expression, belief and association, to procedural fairness, to equal treatment before the law, to privacy.
To protect these rights, to enforce these limits on government, is the sole purpose of the American Civil Liberties Union. Without legal guarantees of individual liberty, even American democracy can revert to acts of tyranny, to a despotism of the majority. The ACLU believes that any infraction of liberties weakens all liberties. The ACLU exists to make sure this does not happen, and to fight it when it does.
Meetings
The Washtenaw County ACLU Executive Committee generally meets on the third Sunday of the month at 7:30 pm at the First Unitarian-Universalist Church, 1917 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor. Visitors are welcomed but should call Jean King at 662-1334 to confirm time, date and location of any particular meeting.
Public Events
Sunday, Dec. 14 public meeting celebrating the First Annual Bill of Rights Award honoring attorney Torn Downs and his work against the death penalty: "The Death Penalty in Michigan; A Horror Receding," Lawyer's Club Lounge, U of M Law School (corner of South University and State Street) 4 to 6 pm. Co-sponsored with University of Michigan Student ACLU and Michigan Coalition Against the Death Penalty. (2124)
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Ypsilanti Food Co-op
312 N. River St.
Ypsilanti, Ml 48198
483-1520
Purpose
The Ypsilanti Food Co-op is a not-for-profit organization. We provide wholesome, nutritious food at the lowest possible prices. You can buy in small quantities or order in bulk. Although the co-op is set up like a store and open to the public, members and shoppers have input to choose the food items and products that are sold in the store. The co-op is based on a one member-one vote democratic system for successful management of the store.
Membership
The Ypsilanti Food Co-op can be whatever the members want it to be. The co-op serves the entire community, however membership is easily obtainable and entitles you to several benefits. Upon membership you become part owner of the co-op, enabling you to vote on issues of concern within the co-op.
A newsletter is published monthly to keep the community informed of the happenings of the co-op. New members are always welcome. See the CALENDAR for details about the Co-op's Christmas party on Dec. 12! (1043)