Community Resource Directory
ATTENTION READERS:
It is the intention of this DIRECTORY to be an open forum for community action organizations to publicize their activities and resources.
The format calls for the groups to write their own copy. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers.
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 in 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 issue or topic. AGENDA'S news and feature articles focus on 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.
From the Publisher:
AGENDA will NOT be publishing a March, 1987 issue. Please note the deadlines for the April, 1987 return of AGENDA.
There are basically two reasons for us not publishing a March edition. First is that Laurie Wechter, one of two editors of AGENDA, has been trying to recover from an auto accident in which her neck was injured. She has been unable to work since mid-October and a great strain has been put upon the whole publishing process due to her absence (not to mention the strain put on me, co-editor and husband). Since we produce AGENDA out of our house, removing the pressure of a publishing deadline will allow the both of us to catch our breath.
There is also a strategic reason for taking a break from the production part of the operation. We need to re-think and perhaps re-format parts of the paper. We will also revamp and expand our advertising department. We need to spend time just plain taking care of business, the many little things that we just never have the time to do.
We are sorry to do this on such short notice but some things just can't be helped. Please write and let us know what you think of our first year (11 issues) of publishing.
We look forward to being even more productive upon our return, so watch for AGENDA to be back on the streets and in your mailbox just in time for the April election.
Until then, keep those subscriptions and donations coming in. We are still operating by the seat of our pants.
Deadlines for APRIL Issue
March 13: Deadline for Feature/News drafts.
March 15: Deadline for ad space reservations.
March 19: Deadline for CRD for APRIL issue. Deadline for photos and graphics. Deadline for Calendar listings.
March 21: Camera-ready ads due.
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Environment
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Ecology Center
417 Detroit Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(313) 761-3186
Who we are: The Ecology Center of Ann Arbor is a nonprofit environmental organization that was founded after the first Earth Day. We run several programs, including: Recycle Ann Arbor, which runs curbside recycling service to all single-family houses in Ann Arbor; Home Energy Works, which provides free weatherization and energy education to low-income renters and homeowners; a Recycling Drop-off Station at 2050 S. Industrial; and environmental issues and recycling promotion programs. We also have a library that is open to the public Mon. to Fri. from 1 pm to 5 pm and on Sat. from 9:30 am to 1 pm.
How you can help: The Ecology Center can use your help in promoting a cleaner, healthier environment. You can do this, on a personal level, in several ways. Recycle your newspapers, glass, tin cans, aluminum, car batteries, and used motor oil. Ask for paper bags rather than plastic ones, when you shop in a supermarket (paper bio-degrades quickly). Or better yet, bring your own bags when you go shopping. Buy recycled paper, and thereby promote the use of recyclables. You can order recycled stationary, wrapping paper, copier paper, and bond from Earth Care Paper Co., 325 Beech Lane, Harbor Springs, Ml 49740. Write to them for a catalog, and if you order something, let them know you heard of them through the Ecology Center- that way we get a percentage of the profit from them. Use fewer toxic household cleansers. There are alternatives to using bleach products, drain cleaners, and ammonia. For a detailed list of these alternatives, contact the Ecology Center. Become a block coordinator. By spending an hour a month reminding your neighbors to recycle, you can double the number of recyclers in your neighborhood.
Coming Events: The Ecology Center is hosting two public forums on Radon in Houses (see the Calendar). Presentation will be made on the health hazard of radon and on what you can do if high levels are measured in your house. Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless and odorless radioactive gas emitted from uranium deposits in the earth. If it is present, it poses an increased risk of lung cancer.
On Feb. 24, you can learn to be a tour guide for groups who visit the Leslie Science Center. Training is from 10 am to 12:30 pm. And we are already thinking about Spring, and our largest annual fundraiser, the Ecology Center Bike-a-thon. We hope to see you at any or all of these activities. (2522)
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Ann Arbor Energy Program
c/o Community Development
City Hall, P.O. Box 8647
Ann Arbor, MI 48107
(313) 996-3150
Current News: On February 12 and 13, the Energy Program, with grant support from the Michigan Energy Administration, is offering a seminar on "Energy Efficiency and the Asbestos Threat" for Ann Arbor area building remodelers. The Energy Program surveyed area contractors and designed the seminar around their questions.
Residential Energy Conservation Consulting Group leaders Torn Wilson and Rana Belshe will speak about weatherization, insulation, window treatments, solar and energy efficient construction techniques. They will also cover moisture control, air quality and toxicity issues. Other speakers will address city regulations, incentives, cost saving methods for energy efficiency, funding sources, and grams designed to assist small businesses.
Discussion about asbestos will focus on identification, removal, disposal, safety procedures, health risks, contractor liability, and Right to Know legislation, which requires worker access to information about effects of hazardous substance exposure in the workplace and how it affects contractors.
Conference dates are February 12 to 13. Workshops at the Ann Arbor Inn will be held from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information or registration forms, please call 996-3150. (1360)
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Gay Rights
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Gay Liberation
4117 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
INFO: 763-4816
HOTLINE: 662-1977
Current News: The Primary Election for Mayoral and City Council candidates is on Mon. Feb. 16, (the General Election will be on Monday, April 6). We urge voters to determine their candidate's stand on issues concerning lesbians and gay men. Some questions to consider follow below.
What are your personal views about homosexuality? To what extent do you believe that discrimination against lesbians and gay men is a problem in our society? In what ways do you believe that gay people are harassed and discriminated against?
To what extent does the Ann Arbor anti-discrimination ordinance effectively counter discrimination against gay people?
What have you done to advance the cause of civil rights for gay people?
In practical terms, what do you think can be accomplished in the future with regard to civil rights or lesbians and gay men through the local legislative process?
What, to your mind. are the city's responsibilities concerning AIDS? How could an AIDS policy concerning city employees strike a reasonable balance between public health concerns and the rights of individuals and groups?
Many of the benefits (e.g. health insurance) provided to a city employee as partial compensation for work performed are also available to the employee's legal spouse. Would you favor employment contracts that require such benefits to be available to an employee's "significant other," whether the "significant other" is a legal spouse or not? Would you prefer a "benefits package" allowing the employee to choose among a range of benefits adding up to a given dollar or salary-percentage total?
Would you welcome an endorsement by a gay organization?
In the March Calendar we will announce a forum where candidates will be invited to share their views about the concerns outlined above.
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 or 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. (3536)
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Health Issues
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Wellness Networks, Inc. - Huron Valley (WNI-HV)
P. O. Box 3242
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
662-6134
Current News: "Sex, Drugs, and Rock -'n' - Roll" has lost none of its rhythm as a cultural byword, as witnessed by the title of a new 18 minute video recently approved for use in Michigan public schools. "Sex, Drugs, and AIDS" is a hip hit for teens that combines good teaching techniques - lots of repetition, lots of examples - with fast editing. The success of the piece is due to narrator Rae Dawn Chong, doing her best imitation of a high-schooler, embarrassed at having to talk about this stuff, but firm about how important it is.
The film makes three points: AIDS is hard to get; you can get AIDS by sharing needles; and you can get AIDS by having unprotected intercourse: vaginal ("the usual boy-girl stuff," Chong says with a shrug) or anal.
The pitch is to high-school kids (the people with AIDS shown are not much older than the targeted audience), and the dialogue about the pill vs. rubbers is realistic. The major audience is made up of primarily young women, as that dialogue among three girls makes it clear, and women are thus cast in the old role of being enforcers for birth control.
The piece is too sprightly for cavils however, and Rae Dawn Chong transcends her role of the star plugged into the expert slot. The comparison with Robert Solo (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.) as narrator in the excellent American Red Cross film on AIDS is both inevitable and painful.
The news that this film will get play in Michigan schools has generated some interest already. This is wonderful because solid educational efforts are crucial to coming to terms with the plague associated with AIDS, ARC, and HIV (HTLV-III) exposure generally.
The growing medical understanding of the virus and the clinical studies of treatments (AZT is only one of many drugs under study) are important developments that deserve the attention they are getting.
But education is vastly more important, and support for educational efforts will also be needed. Teachers and other educators who are spreading the word about AIDS deserve congratulations, especially for their use of the specific and unavoidably difficult words to do it with. To stop this plague or at least control it, we need to be able to talk about clean needles and sex with condoms.
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 February 8, 3:30 to 5:30 pm at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, Ann Arbor (enter through outpatient entrance). (3190)
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Human Rights
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Nov. 29th Committee for Palestine (N29)
4203 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
764-6958, 764-5011
News from Palestine: U.S. aid to Israel: how is our tax money being used? Did you know 1) that Israel is by the far the largest recipient of foreign aid in U.S. history, receiving the equivalent of $42.3 billion (in 1983 dollars) since 1948? 2) that the illegal settlements in the West Bank and Gaza could not be built without U.S. subsidies? 3) that Israel's 1982 invasion of Lebanon was subsidized by U.S. aid, costing approximately $2 billion and rising as the occupation continues? 4) that one-half of all U.S. military aid between 1978 and 1982 went to Israel? 5) that U.S. aid has made the Israeli army the fourth most powerful in the world? 6) that U.S. aid has made Israel one of the top five arms exporters in the world? 7) that Israeli arms go to repressive regimes throughout the world, such as South Africa, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Chile, as well as to the contras in Nicaragua? 8) that third countries may use U.S. aid to buy Israeli arms and services - a privilege enjoyed only by Israel? 10) that for the past eight years, U.S. aid to Israel has averaged over $7.4 million each day?
If you find this U.S.-Israeli relationship indefensible when unemployment, poverty and hunger are soaring in our own country, then join us in the November 29th Committee for Palestine to protest.
Meetings and Office Hours: We meet every Friday at 5 pm in the Michigan Union. Ask at the information desk for locations. Members must agree on N29's bylaws and principles of unity. Office hours are Tues., Thurs. and Friday from 2 pm to 4 pm. If you would like to join N29 or need information on the Palestine conflict or would just like to talk, please visit us.
Purpose: The November 29th Committee for Palestine takes its name from the date declared by the United Nations as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. A resolution declaring this solidarity day was passed by the U.N. on Dec. 12, 1979. It resulted from a joint drive by the overwhelming majority of member states to recognize the legitimacy of the struggle of the Palestinian people under the leadership of the Palestine Liberation Organization. The resolution also expressed the international consensus that there cannot be peace in the Middle East without the recognition of the inalienable national rights of the Palestinian People.
N29 was founded in 1981 to create a movement of solidarity with the Palestinian people here in the U.S. The Committee includes more than one hundred member groups, progressive individuals, and representatives from other liberation struggles.
Palestine Focus, the national newsletter of the Nov. 29th Committee for Palestine, is an informational vehicle tied to an activist movement, yet aimed at a general audience with little background knowledge. The newsletter counters the barrage of pro-lsrael propaganda which Americans find in their newspapers and on their television sets by advancing tactual and understandable, explanations of all the issues raised by the state of Israel and the dispossession of the Palestinian people. Subscriptions $6, sample copies, 50 cents - from our local office or our national office at: P.O. Box 27462, San Francisco, CA 94127. (3340)
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Intergenerational
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Gray Panthers of Huron Valley
1209 Island Dr., #103
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
663-0786
Purpose: To unite the generations in working for social change where great deficiencies and injustice still prevail. Areas of special concern include peace, health care inequities, housing, etc.
Membership: Of any background and any age, young and old together for ACTION
Meetings: Second Saturday of each month, Sept. through June. (Second Floor Conference Room, Ann Arbor Fire Station, 107 N. 5th Ave., 2 to 4 pm. Public Welcome.
Current News: Firming up action plans for a public forum in the spring, to bring awareness of need for alternatives to the current healthcare provision system. Contact with public figures is being made for strategies to accomplish change. Also, February display on Gray Panthers work is being shown in the main floor of the Ann Arbor Public Library, at 5th Avenue and E. William.
OUR CONCERNS APPLY TO ALL AGES, not just the elderly. (952)
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Labor
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Graduate Employees Organization (GEO)
American Federation of Teachers/Michigan Federation of Teachers Local #3550
802 Monroe #3
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
(313) 995-0221
Current News: Three new bylaws were passed by the membership: Associate dues per term shall be 10% of the dues for a Full-Time Equivalent (raising dues from $6 to $7.20); Dues increases and Union affiliation issues shall be out of order during the spring and summer membership meetings; In the event that any department/unit fails to elect steward(s), the Vice-President may appoint an acting steward(s) until elections are held.
Chris Roberson (Phil), Alice Haddy (Chem), Lisa Huberty (Biology), Wally Genser (Am Cult) and Dan Schafer (Hist) were newly elected or re-elected to the Steering Committee.
GEO's current Legal Defense Fund stands at $15,783.73.
Meetings: Regular membership meetings are held monthly. Times and places will be announced ten days in advance and posted on GEO bulletin boards and published in the University Record. The next membership meeting will be Feb 18, 7:30 pm, Pond Rm, Union.
Office Hours: MF:12:30 pm-4:30 pm, TW: 9:30 am-1:30 pm, Th: 10:30 am-12:30 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 (TAs) 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 deals of non-discrimination and affirmative action. (1696)
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Industrial Workers of the World (IWW)
Southeastern Mich. General Membership Branch
42 S. Summit
Ypsilanti, Ml 48197
483-3478
Current News: Almost all members of the University Cellar Branch of the IWW are now unemployed due to the closing of the store on Dec. 24th (see the related article in this issue of AGENDA). The General Membership Branch is establishing an unemployed committee to provide mutual aid, entertainment, and information about job prospects and skill sharing to our members. Any unemployed worker who would like to avail him/herself of these services is welcome to do so. Call the number above.
In March, members of the General Membership Branch will be participating in the Free University, conducting a course on the history of labor from a radical perspective. Participation by all wishing to share information or expand their knowledge on the subject will be most welcome.
Meetings: Every Monday (except holidays), 6 pm, Room 4304 Michigan Union. Observers are welcome. Recently the meetings have been adjourning to Dominick's around 7 pm. Feel free to join us for a little socializing.
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.
Membership: Area membership includes the majority of the employees at: Ann Arbor Tenant's Union in the Michigan Union; People's Wherehouse at 727 W. Ellsworth, and numerous other wage earners, 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.
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 actions. (2530)
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Latin America
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AMISTAD
Construction Brigade
802 Monroe
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
761-7960
Current News: After a whopping send-off party, the first contingent of the construction brigade took off for Managua on Jan. 12. They have all settled in with Nicaraguan families and begun clearing the land for the laboratory. Faced with shortages and delays due to the economic and military war in Nicaragua, progress will be slow but steady. Shortly after their arrival, brigadistas met with members of the Commission on Higher Education and the Agricultural Institute (two sponsoring bodies) who expressed their gratitude not only for Ann Arborites' help in construction of the lab, but in bringing home the reality of Nicaragua to other North Americans.
On Jan. 27, AMISTAD participated in press conferences in Lansing and Ann Arbor kicking off Michigan's part in the "Quest For Peace" campaign to raise $100 million in humanitarian aid to be sent to Nicaragua. Michigan solidarity groups from around the state were present.
Meetings: AMISTAD's meetings are open to all, Sundays at 7:30 p.m. in the Michigan Union (check CIC desk). 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, especially women, including plumbers, masons, and health care workers are encouraged to join us.
Background: "AMISTAD" is the acronym for the Ann Arbor-Managua Initiative for Soil Testing and Development in English, and the word for friendship in Spanish. The construction brigade is group of local people who will work in Nicaragua through the spring of 1987 building a soil and water testing laboratory with the Agricultural Institute 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 lands. The facility will also be used to train technicians.
AMISTAD is a project of HAP-NICA (see below) and has offered its cooperation in this project along with the Italian Government, a Dutch University and the Nicaraguans themselves. The construction brigade has raised over $30,000 locally to purchase and ship materials to Nicaragua, and approximately 30 people from the area will be laying blocks and concrete in Managua.
The AMISTAD project is conducted in a spirit of solidarity with the Nicaraguan people and their revolution and of condemnation of the U.S.-sponsored contra war being waged on Nicaragua. The group and its supporters see this project both as a way to promote lasting ties between the people of Nicaragua and the U.S. and to actively protest our country's interventionist policies in Central America. (2685)
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Latin American Solidarity Committee (LASC)
4120 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor MI 48109
665-8438
Feb. Activities: LASC and several other solidarity organizations are currently staging a winter offensive against U.S. policy in Central America. Join us n protest every Thursday at 3:30 pm at the National Guard Armory on the corner of Ann St. and Fifth Ave. (Time and site may change, call the LASC office for weekly updates.) The protests have involved civil disobedience, according to the discretion of each individual participant.
This is a crucial time to maintain as much pressure on the administration and Congress as possible, now that the facts are finally appearing in the mainstream media and the U.S. war with Nicaragua is more widely recognized for what it has always been: ill-conceived and morally bankrupt. The participation of the National Guard in military exercises and the construction of roads and airstrips for the Contras in Honduras has only deepened our country's involvement, uselessly endangering the lives of our servicemen and bringing death and suffering to thousands of innocent Central Americans. It needs to be made clear to our legislators that there is a mass base of people opposed to Reagan's war who won't tolerate another spineless vote for aid to the Contras.
More than 100 protesters who were arrested on trespassing charges at Congressman Carl PurseIl's office last March will be on trial Feb. 12th and 13th in Ann Arbor. University students, professors, religious leaders and other concerned citizens sat-in at the office for several days in an unsuccessful attempt to meet with Pursell and convince him that he should not vote for aid to the Contras.
Fundraising activities to pay for the group's legal defense are being planned for this month. The first is a party, Feb. 7 at 6 pm at Dominick's. A $5.00 donation will be requested at the door, though any size contribution will be greatly appreciated. Direct contributions can be mailed to the LASC office, to the attention of the "Legal Defense Fund."
Attention at the meetings this month will be given to planning for participation in demonstrations for Peace, Jobs and Justice to be held in Detroit and Washington DC in the next few months.
Beans and rice dinners are held each Wednesday evening at 6 pm at the Guild House, 802 Monroe St. A $2 donation buys a great meal and contributes to material aid for the people of Central America. Funds raised at recent dinners have gone to El Salvador for earthquake relief. The first Wednesday night of each month is LASC's night to cook and we need some volunteers to help out! Anyone able to contribute some time? People interested in any of the activities mentioned should call or visit the LASC office or come to a meeting. We welcome all newcomers!
Meetings: 1407 Mason Hall is now the permanent site for LASC meetings every Wednesday evening at 8:00 pm. Information about weekly activities can be obtained by visiting or calling the LASC office. The office is normally staffed from noon to 2 pm on weekdays, and messages can be left on the answering machine at all other times.
Community Services: LASC sponsors educational events such as films and speakers. The outreach committee provides speakers for University and high school classes as well as for other groups interested in Latin American issues. The LASC newsletter, "La Palabra," is sent to about 800 subscribers. It contains a summary of our activities and updates on the news from Latin America. To receive "La Palabra" and any other special announcements from LASC, sign in at any Wed. night meeting or leave your name and address on the phone answering machine.
Purpose: LASC s a nonprofit group dedicated to supporting the legitimate aspirations of Latin American peoples to self-determination. It's goals are to increase awareness here about contemporary realities in Latin America and the U.S. role in perpetuating these, and to pressure our government to change its military, political, and economic policies toward Latin America. (4080)
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Peace and Disarmament
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Ann Arbor War Tax Dissidents/U.S. Peace Tax Fund
co Mary Lou Kerwin
1427 Broadway
Ann Arbor, Ml 48105
662-2838
Current News: As follow-up to the informational workshops held in Jan. we will address the impact of 1987 "tax reform" on war tax resistance and refusal. Explore with us the nuts and bolts of the new W4 form, charitable deductions, professional exemptions, and others. How can these changes help us n lobbying for the Peace Tax Fund Bill? Sat., Feb. 21st, noon to 3 pm, Wesley Foundation, Pine Room.
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 Bassett at 662-1373 about the U.S. Peace Tax Fund bill.
Fran Eliot at 663-2655 about war tax resistance.
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. (1626)
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Michigan Alliance for Disarmament (MAD)
410 W. Washington
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(313) 995-5871
A system of permanent war: President Eisenhower's 1960 warning about "the military-industrial complex" directed salutary attention to those corporate and bureaucratic interests which profit directly by war and preparations for war. But the phrase misleadingly suggests a powerful if dangerous player in a pluralistic play of interests which influence government policy. In fact, the armaments complex is rather closer to being the government than influencing it: no wonder, then, that opposition to war is sometimes confused with lack of patriotism.
Today 57 cents of every income tax dollar goes to the military. Reagan is requesting another $300 billion dollars for the Pentagon. Around 85% of this goes to the top 100 military contractors, 34 of which are in the top 50 of the Fortune 500. Military firms average profits 125% higher than nonmilitary firms. And their wealth gives them the power to ensure that increasing amounts of our resources will be devoted to weaponry. This investment is for the most part a waste, never used except to kill people. Military spending hurts every sector of society from farms to industry. It absorbs the skills of workers, engineers, and scientists which are bst to the rest of society. And as the little known record of these firms trading with the Nazis during World War II shows, their pretense to patriotism is laughable. They are loyal only to money.
The other side of the armaments complex is the government side - more civilian, in fact, than military, but civilians who are often more militaristic than the generals. As Daniel Axelrod argues in his book, "To Win A Nuclear War," the driving force of the system of permanent war is not the arms makers but the arms buyers, those policymakers who seek political clout through military force. Without the officials who identify U.S. interests with international coercion, the weapons makers would be just another interest competing for influence.
Here, Attorney General Meese's recent characterization of the National Security Council (NSC) as a "rogue institution" is accurate, but only if we understand that the NSC (which consists of the President, the Secretaries of State and Defense, and the Director of the CIA) was created to be a "rogue institution," at least from the point of view of the American people and the people of the world. This raises the question: how can we get rid of the rogues and create a foundation for a permanent peace?
The Connection is the journal of the Michigan Alliance for Disarmament, and recently received national recognition in "The Nation." If you would like a copy of January's issue on the armaments complex (from which this article is excerpted), or to subscribe, write to MAD at 410 W. Washington, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Subscriptions come with memberships in MAD, which are $10 per year, $5 for students and low income.
"Connection" meetings are every Wednesday, 7:30 pm, usually at the MAD office, 530 South State St., Rm 4104. Call 995-0183 to check the location. All are welcome.
Who we are: MAD is a five year-old Ann Arbor group working on disarmament, nonintervention, and social justice. Our 700 members include students, professors, University staff, and many members of the Ann Arbor community, and share a commitment to breaking the deadly connections among nuclear war, U.S. intervention, and social oppression. MAD is the Ann Arbor affiliate of the national Mobilization for Survival.
What we do: MAD's activities have ranged from a 1984 ballot initiative to ban nuclear weapons research in Ann Arbor to organizing demos and conferences and doing educational work around nuclear arms and intervention. Current work includes: (1) planning for a Peace Art Fair in early June, (2) exploring the use of computer conferences for peace, (3) publishing "The Connection" and other literature, and (4) exploring a renewed campaign against cruise missile production at nearby Williams International in Walled Lake. Interested people can call 995-0183 or attend any of our meetings.
Meetings: MAD holds regular planning meetings, usually on alternate Mondays, but in February on the 9th and the 16th, at our office at 530 South State St., Rm. 4104 (Michigan Union), 7:30 pm. See Calendar for other announcements. (4388)
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WAND Washtenaw County Women's Action for Nuclear Disarmament, Inc.
P.O. Box 1815
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
761-1718
Current News: In response to the upcoming ABC TV production "Amerika," WAND is offering a discussion of life in the Soviet Union at the February meeting. Dr. Bruce Carlson, a U-M professor of Anatomy and Biology, is an exchange scientist who has travelled extensively in Russia. He will speak about his experiences there followed by questions. Information will also be given on ways to respond to ABC and Chrysler about the program. "Amerika," a 14-hour mini-series to be shown February 15-22, shows the United States after a Soviet takeover which has been aided by UN troops; this type of alarmist fiction being shown to millions on TV does nothing to increase US/Soviet understanding.
WAND has a NEW LOCATION. February's meeting will be held on Sunday, the 8th at the First Baptist Church, 512 E. Huron, Ann Arbor. This new meeting place is near campus and centrally located so people from all over the area can get there easily. We welcome new members. Doors open at 7 pm and the meeting begins at 7:30 with the speaker at 8:30.
Come celebrate Valentine's Day, Saturday, February 14 with us! WAND will be sponsoring a major fundraising event at the Union Ballroom from 8 pm to 1 am called "Give Peace a Dance" with the Urbations, Madcat's Pressure Cooker, People Dancing, and records with S&N, all Emceed by entrepreneur-in-exile Joe Tiboni. If you like great rock 'n' roll be sure to be there! Cash bar too. Admission is $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Tickets are available at Schoolkids, CTC ticket offices, or by calling 994-6268. Anyone who brings $25 in contributions for WAND which are not ticket sales, will be admitted FREE! Call 761-1718 for more information.
Ongoing Activities: Call our Information Hotline at 761-1718 for a message announcing important lobbying information, meeting times, and upcoming 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.
Meetings and Membership: NEW LOCATION: Meetings are held the 2nd Sunday night of the month at First Baptist Church, 512 E. Huron (beginning with the February meeting). 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 information.
Purpose: WAND's goals are to educate ourselves and the public about the dangers of continued nuclear arms buildup, to influence our congressional representatives by informed lobbying, and to empower women personally and politically.
Washt. County WAND is affiliated with the national WAND org. 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. (3138)
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Poverty & Hunger
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WHE-AC World Hunger Education-Action Committee
4202 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
663-3560
Current News: Heart to Heart for the Homeless: The Salvation Army, Shelter Association of Ann Arbor, Ozone House, SOS Community Crisis Center, and Safe House are working together to sponsor a community event which will involve residents of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti in a show of support for the needs of the homeless people in the area. WHE-AC will be working on the publicity committee focusing on education. For more information contact Ozone House 662-2222.
Hunger Watch: Research continues in Lansing, Detroit, and Ypsilanti. The project involves interviewing administrators of and participants in federal food programs and private agency administrators. Meetings are Tuesdays at 7:15 pm in the WHE-AC office, 4202 Michigan Union.
Shelter Association of Ann Arbor: WHE-AC is volunteering as a group at the shelter. More volunteers are always needed. Contact WHE-AC if you would like to get involved.
Meetings: All are welcome to come and be a part of WHE-AC. General meetings are on Tuesdays at 6 pm in the Michigan Union (check at the front desk for room).
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 projects with this perspective in mind. Consequently, we work with Oxfam America and the Institute for Food and Development Policy. (1678)
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Progressive Religion
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New Jewish Agenda (NJA)
2208 Packard
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
662-9217
Anti-Apartheid Speakers: Two of South Africa's most dynamic anti-apartheid leaders will be speaking in Ann Arbor on February 23, 1987. The two are Rabbi Ben Issacson of Johannesburg and Reverend Zachariah Mokgoebo, a Black minister from Soweto.
Rabbi Issacson is the founder of an anti-apartheid group called Jews for Justice and is a close associate of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He has been a critic of South African government policies since the 1960's. Reverend Mokgoebo has spent his life in Soweto. He is a member of the Soweto Civic Association, a leader in the development of liberation theology in South Africa and serves as national organizer of the Belydende Kring, the group of dissident non-white ministers within the Dutch Reformed Church that was founded by Rev. Allan Boesak.
The pair will speak at 7:30 pm on February 23 in the Rackham Amphitheater, on the fourth floor of the Rackham building on the U-M campus.
Feb. events also include the NJA monthly Shabbat Potluck on the 20th, and the NJA Feminist Interest Group meeting on the 21st (see the CALENDAR for details). Please join any or all of our activities!!
Purpose: New Jewish Agenda (NJA) is comprised of Jews from a variety of backgrounds and affiliations who are interested in working for social and political justice within the framework of Jewish tradition. We are committed to building an inclusive Jewish community and therefore place particular importance on addressing issues which traditionally exclude many Jews. (1580)
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Senior Citizens
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Housing Bureau for Seniors
1010 Wall St.
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
763-0970
Volunteers needed!! The Housing Bureau for Seniors, affiliated with Turner Geriatric Services of the University of Michigan Medical Center, has main offices located in the Kellogg Eye Research Tower, 990 Wall St., Ann Arbor. The Bureau is staffed predominantly by volunteer counselors, mostly senior citizens, recruited to perform a variety of housing-related services.
Outreach activities of the Housing Bureau include counseling services provided in out-county locations. Chelsea, Whitmore Lake, Ypsilanti City, Ypsilanti Township, Saline and the Burns Park Senior Center. The outreach coordination has been provided by the Housing Options Project, funded by an Administration on Aging grant which the Housing Bureau received in August, 1985.
Public information materials and services, the housing guide, slideshow and posters, developed by the Housing Bureau were also funded by the Housing Options Project grant.
The grant expired on Jan. 22. While Bureau activities have been cut back as a result, Carolyn Hastings, executive director of the Housing Bureau, has assured volunteers and clients of the Bureau that counseling for seniors and their families on housing-related issues will continue.
"Now more that ever we are dependent upon the services of volunteers, not only as counselors, but to do public relations work, develop and maintain our information services, and keep Bureau operations moving smoothly," Ms. Hastings claims. Persons interested in volunteering to work at the Housing Bureau are asked to contact Carole Lapidos, volunteer coordinator, at 763-0970.
Many copies remain of the Bureau's housing guide, "Home is Where: A Guide to Housing for Senior Citizens in Washtenaw County." The guide is a comprehensive listing of area housing choices for senior citizens and Includes information about retirement centers, subsidized housing, cooperatives, condominiums, mobile homes, and apartments in Washtenaw County. Those who would like to receive a free copy of "Home is Where" are urged to contact the Housing Bureau.
Also, the Bureau's recently completed slideshow may be viewed by groups and interested individuals. The slide show may be viewed by visiting the Bureau at its main office, or arrangements can be made for a Housing Bureau volunteer to come to your meeting or home to show the slide show and make a brief presentation about the Housing Bureau and its services and about housing choices for senior citizens in Washtenaw County. (2560)
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South Africa
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Free South Africa Coordinating Committee (FSACC)
8309 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
971-7994 or 769-8549
Current News: FSACC members supported, publicized and participated in the Jan. events n memory of Dr. Martin Luther King. Our Jan. 19th Mass Meeting was postponed to January 26th because of a King tribute at Trotter House the same night. Our weekly meetings are still drawing twenty to forty people. We have launched another "Honor Mandela" petition drive and plan to have a big presence at the Feb. Regents Meeting.
Feb. is Black History Month and we are sponsoring or supporting several events including a talk on "Black Feminist Thought" by Prof. Pat Hill Collins from the University of Cincinnati on Feb. 4, 4:30 pm in the Rackham Building. There will also be a forum on "The Implications of the Recent Wave of Corporate Divestiture from South Africa" on Feb. 16 at 7 pm in the Michigan Union; and speakers reaffirming our anti-racist campus agenda at the U-M Regents Meeting on Feb. 19 at 4 pm.
On Feb 2, there will be an initial planning meeting for the April 4 Freedom March Coalition at 8 pm in the Michigan Union.
Meetings: General meetings are every Monday night, 6:30 pm in Room 111 of the West Engineering Bldg. All are welcome.
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 U-M), 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. (1952)
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Women's Issues
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Michigan Abortion Rights Action League (MARAL)
1208 Chapel
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
665-2825 or 663-3621
Purpose: MARAL is one of 34 affiliates of NARAL (National Abortion Rights Action League). MARAL works to preserve the right of all women to choose a safe and legal abortion by involving pro-choice citizens in the Michigan electoral process. The right to make decisions about our reproductive lives without government interference is crucial to our constitutional right to personal privacy. We are neither pro nor anti-abortion, rather we are pro-choice! MARAL speaks for the overwhelming majority of Michigan citizens who believe abortion is a personal choice, not a matter for government control.
Current Activities: On Tuesday, March 3, MARAL and RCAR (Religious Coalition for Abortion Rights) will sponsor a showing of the film "Holy Terror," a documentary on the emerging political activism of the religious New Right focusing on anti-abortion activities including harassment and clinic violence. The film will be shown at 7:30 pm at the downtown public library and will be followed by a brief discussion of religious opinion on abortion. (1156)
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U-M Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center
3100 Michigan Union
Ann Arbor, Ml 48109
763-5865 Purpose: To help provide the University community with an awareness of sexual assault and sexual assault prevention through educational programming, crisis intervention and safety programs. The Center coordinates other units working on these issues throughout the University.
Current News: We have many exciting activities going on and we are looking for volunteers to work with us this winter and spring. We need volunteers to facilítate our Date and Acquaintance Rape Workshops for students, help with our newsletter, help organize events for the University community to become aware of sexual assault and prevention, as well as to help in the office. If you are interested please call Jennifer Akfirat, 763-5865.
A national Rape Art Exhibit will be coming to the U-M Campus March 15-30, at the Slusser Gallery on North Campus in the Art and Architecture Building. There are many related events surrounding the exhibit that will be publicized in the near future.
Meetings: There will be a Mass Meeting Thurs., Feb. 4, in the Kuenzal Room of the Michigan Union (first floor) for people interested in volunteering at the Center.
Services:
Educational Programming like the student led workshop on Date-Acquaintance Rape Prevention which 800 students participated in last fall, Self-Defense Workshops, training programs for University staff, and general awareness campaigns aimed at the University community.
Crisis Intervention Services: coordinating services for sexual assault victims, family, and friends in the University community. Counselors are available on an appointment basis as well as assistance in dealing with the police and the court system.
Campus Safety: coordinating efforts to improve safety on campus. By working with the Dept. of Public Safety and Security, Transportation, Telephone Communications, and other departments as well, we hope to create a safer environment on campus for students, staff and faculty. (2084)
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Women's Crisis Center - WCC
P.O. Box 7413
Ann Arbor, Ml 48107
CRISIS LINE: 994-9100
Business line: 761-9475
Current News: The Ann Arbor City Council passed the Domestic Violence Ordinance in December. Under this ordinance the police will arrest an assailant who has assaulted a significant other residing or having resided in the same residence. The police department will also notify the survivor and SAFE House before the assailant is released. SAFE House will have an on-call team of volunteers who have experience working in crisis intervention that will meet the woman and give her information on her rights and options. The Ordinance goes into effect on May 1, 1987. A WCC representative will be on the Oversight Committee for this ordinance along with representatives from SAFE House and various city and county officials.
For the past few months, WCC has been working with the Assault Crisis Center and the U-M Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center to develop a volunteer Court Accompaniment Program. Volunteers will work with counselors and survivors of sexual assault to provide empathy and support during court procedures. The program needs a volunteer coordinator as well as volunteers to accompany survivors. The coordinator will help with the development and implementation of this new program. At this time we are looking to obtain funds to make this a paid position. For more information and to volunteer, call WCC at 761-9475, Assault Crisis Center at 994-2618, or U-M Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center at 763-5865. Volunteers are needed!
WCC is in the process of developing a Speakers Bureau to provide community education and support on feminist issues other than sexual assault and domestic violence. The Assault Crisis Center currently has a volunteer Speakers Bureau that can be scheduled by calling 994-2618. The Domestic Violence Project is developing a Speakers Bureau, call 973-0242 for info. WCC hopes to have ours ready for scheduling by mid-April.
We're happy to announce that another peer counseling training has gone successfully! Thank you to all the women who went through our January training. U's great to have you all as part of the WCC community!
WCC will turn 15 in April and we're planning a birthday party! If you were ever involved in the Center, we would like to hear from you and send you an invitation to the party. If you have addresses of other women who worked at WCC in the past, please let us know so that we can contact them, too. Stay tuned for more information about this fun-filled event.
Community Services
The Crisis Line: 994-9100, operates every day, 10 am to 10 pm. Callers are guaranteed anonymity and can talk with a peer counselor who is there to provide nonjudgemental support.
Referrals: WCC offers over 600 referrals to agencies and individuals in and around Washtenaw County. WCC also sells low-cost do-it-yourself divorce kits.
Purpose: The purpose of the Women's Crisis Center is to help women help themselves gain control and dignity in their lives by providing nonjudgemental support, education, and resources.
WCC volunteers provide free peer counseling and crisis intervention for all women in the Washtenaw County area. We also organize education and support groups, workshops, and activities.
WCC is a nonprofit, 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 provide 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. (3728)
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Other
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Free University Network (FUN)
1402 Hill
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
994-4937 or 662-8607
Purpose: The purpose of the Free U Network is to encourage and support liberating education - free education that works to free people. Through program content, style, and practice, the Free U promotes social change for human liberation.
Program: Courses are free and open to anyone. Resource people and class conveners volunteer their time. There are no grades, credits, or other restrictions. Participants shape what happens in free learning environments.
If you want to: share ideas about an interesting book, learn how to make a newspaper, learn organizing skills, develop feminist thought, practice political theatre. or share any idea, skill, or craft with other people in the community, Free University Network is for you. Please get involved soon by developing a course, or helping with planning and publicity.
Meeting: We would like to invite everyone who is interested in helping to join us in our next planning meeting to be held on Mon., Feb. 9 at 7:30 pm at 1402 Hill Street (children are welcome). Please call anytime if you have any ideas, suggestions, or questions. We look forward to learning with you! (1216)
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Solar Yoga and Cultural Center
205 E. Ann St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
769-4321
The Solar Yoga and Cultural Center, sponsored by the Universal Great Brotherhood (UGB), is an organization dedicated to the attainment of peace through efforts made by us all to raise the consciousness of humankind as a whole. Since 1948 the organization has been a means for people to become active in improving their health, their human relationships and their understanding of natural laws, so that society can come to a greater maturity and more nobly reflect its potential in the universal values of everyday life.
In 1972, the UGB founded the Solar Yoga and Cultural Center of Ann Arbor with four specific goals. 1) To promote a synthesis of science, art, philosophy, and education. 2) To aid individuals in search of their own physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual potential, thus promoting their self realization. 3) To unite humanitarian, philosophical, scientific, esoteric, religious and Initiatic societies. 4) To inspire world peace.
Community Service: After 15 years of quiet work, the members feel some satisfaction in the thought that they have been of help in transforming the Kerrytown neighborhood in which they are located into the heart of today's New Age community of Cooperative natural foods and baking, book stores, art studios etcs., from the unsightly scene of seedy bars, street fights and crime that it once was. The Solar Yoga and Cultural Center serves as a meeting point for many community service organizations: The New Dimensions Study Group; A Tai Chi group; The non profit Solar Line Products, makers of Ann Arbor's ever popular health food snack-Hommus; A Suffi Dance group from ERIKA; a Karate class; to name a few. It opens its' doors to any organization that might need a hall or other support for some special community service.
Public Events: Beside serving as a home for the UGB's Regional Council of Michigan, The Solar Yoga and Cultural Center also offers various classes on vegetarian cooking, natural childbirth, astrology, and a regular series on Hatha Yoga. It also sponsors seminars and workshops by visiting speakers and puts on a quarterly Vegetarían Dinner Party, all open to the public. Inclusion in a regular mailing can be requested to keep informed of the calendar of events. The unique characteristic of UGB is that all teaching is done on a voluntary basis.
Hatha Yoga: By far its most popular event, the Hatha Yoga Classes are specifically designed to meet the second goal mentioned above. As might be expected, the classes use Action on the physical body to develop flexibility, muscle tone, weight management, increased endurance, greater lung capacity, relaxation and stress control, hormonal balance, quick reflexes, n short to develop radiant health.
Initiation: The UGB publicly opens its Colleges of Initiation to anyone who feels this need. Initiation is a very ancient, sacred tradition of wisdom. We are all Iniatates because we are all, even the plants and animals, evolving towards high consciousness. The UGB merely makes conscious recognition of this fact, offering an efficient way of accelerating the process and sharing it with others. It offers Schools of Initiation to those individuals who seek to develop themselves spiritually within a group context. Yamis School is where the candidate is first introduced to esoteric studies. The simple disciplines required for entrance lay the foundation for all succeeding steps.
Current News: How well the UGB, through its community service, public events, hatha yoga classes, and schools of Initiation, meets its rather ambitious goals, can best be judged by visiting the Solar Yoga and Cultural Center of Ann Arbor during one of its events. The Center is currently running "A New Year, A New You" promotion, and memberships through March are offered at a special 50% price of $15 per month. Beginning Hatha Yoga classes are offered on Monday and Wed. evenings from 6 to 8 pm and on Saturday mornings from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. New visitors can try it out free of charge. (4124)
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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 rom 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 16-member Executive Committee of the Washtenaw County Branch of the ACLU of Michigan meets (except in December and the summer) on the third Sunday of the month at 7:30 pm at the First Unitarian-Universalist Church. 1917 Washtenaw Avenue. Ann Arbor The meetings of the Executive Committee are open to the public and visitors are welcome.
February's meeting will be held on Sunday, Feb. 15. at 7:30 pm. For other meetings, visitors shoulo cai Jear, Ledwith King, chair of the Branch at 662-1334 during business hours to confirm time, place and date of meeting.
Student Chapter: Under the sponsorship of the Washtenaw Branch, a U-M student ACLU chapter was formed three years ago. The outgoing chair of the chapter is Fred Campbell, a Dec, 1985 graduate of the U-M Law School. Vice President of the chapter is Joe Opich. Jason Engel and Monica Rimai represent the chapter on the Branch board.
The chapter has sponsored a forum on civil rights issues involved in AIDS and plans to sponsor a forum this spring on drug testing in employment and in other settings. It meets twice a month and, in addition, sponsors brown bag lunches on specific topics, such as the death penalty. Meeting times are posted in Hutchins Hall at the U-M Law School, on the corner of State and Monroe. Additional information can be obtained from the secretary of the chapter Deborah Osgood (668-6222).
Current News: The Washtenaw Branch's annual meeting in April will be a Silver Anniversary Potluck honoring those who have served on the Branch Board since its founding in 1961. Julie Carroll (662-6036) is research director for the event. If you have ever served on the Board or know of anyone who has, please call Julie with contact information. (3132)
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Ypsilanti Food Co-op
312 N. River St.
Ypsilanti, Ml 48198
483-1520
Current News: The Ypsilanti Food Co-op provides whole foods that have been processed as little as possible. We carry locally grown foods and deal with small distributors who are aware of where their products come from, and how they are grown or made. We avoid foods grown heavily with pesticides and foods grown with the use of exploited workers.
Whole foods are stressed for nourishment rather then processed foods with some of the nutrients added back in. We help educate our shoppers about how to use these natural, whole foods.
One Saturday a month the co-op sponsors "Cooking Encounters," a display of naturally prepared foods for your tasting. Recipes are also available.
In March, we are asking you to do the cooking for a Whole-foods Baking Contest. The contest will be held Saturday, March 21st, from noon until 3 pm. If you are interested in entering, stop by the co-op for an entry form. Included are the details as to the ingredients permissible. Prizes include a twenty-dollar gift certificate to the co-op and natural foods cookbooks. Everyone is welcome to come by and try out these wholesome treats and see how good they really can be.
See the calendar for details about the February 14th "Cooking Encounters" on good foods for the heart.
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 Coop 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 t 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 as well as a discount.
A newsletter is published monthly to keep the community informed of the happenings of the Co-op. New members are always welcome. (2246)