22 MAY 2015 OBGA meeting – Public Market, Bellingham, WA

Attendees: Peter, Charles, Marcia, Ronna, Alys, Dianne (Facilitator), Debbie, Karen (recorder)

Meeting commenced ~ 2:35 pm; decided agenda

 AGENDA:

1. Honor/sacred land reading
2. OB purpose/process review and policy re: political activism, promotion, affiliation

III. Announcements & Reports

1. TPP
2. Festival of Resistance/Shell No protests
3. Healthy Bellingham
4. OB website update
5. Banners

 PROCEEDINGS:

Ronna read the Honor/sacred land reading and offered the Lummi word of the week. Shelangin (way of life)

Dianne read the OB Prologue and Mission Statement.

Group discussion about OB policy re: political parties:

Clarified and affirmed that established OB policy allows announcements and discussion of political party matters and does not endorse political parties, events or candidates.

TPP update:

TPA is in Congress. Dianne noted good turn-out last week of ~ 40 people for “shoe drop” at Rep. Larsen’s local office; shoe drop occupied the office without appointment for ~ 4 hours. Public encouraged to continue pressure/contact Representatives to oppose TPA/TPP.

Noted: WA Senators Murray and Cantwell both supported TPA in second Senate vote. Brief discussion about censorship and other options for replacing elected officials who do not represent constituents: corporate corruption of elections compromises every candidate; American Anti-corruption Act (Represent.US) and Working Families are worthy considerations; continuous referendum electronic democracy offers alternative to governance by elected representation; economic globalization (TPP) continues empire building; especially if globalization is inevitable, challenge is to build public voice/popular movement to represent common good.

 Shell No/Festival of Resistance update:

Debbie and Terry attended “Paddle in Seattle” and reported on that ongoing event – they were positively impressed by protest process and turn-out; Shell vessels in Seattle are Polar Pioneer (drilling rig) and Noble Explorer (tow vessel). Debbie also noted recent Skagit County Court decision to require EIS for shipment of oil by rail trains by Shell refinery in Skagit.  Charles detailed 2-year history of alleged violations by Arctic Challenger in Bellingham Bay; he and interested others are encouraged to form a working group to address concerns as this.

Reviewed schedule for Festival of Resistance here in Bellingham, starting with speakers/march at Peace Vigil today, kayak training tomorrow, etc. – see OBGA list posts and OB website calendar for events/details.

Yeager’s Sporting Goods withdrew kayak support for festival; hence no local source for activists’ rental kayaks. Lack of discretion on social networking sites may have contributed to Yeager’s withdrawal – noted as possible lesson for OB.

Cornwall Beach is gathering place for public ground support for kayaktivists demonstration. Noted that protest is against Shell, NOT dock and vessel workers associated with Arctic Challenger; demonstrators advised to NOT interfere with activities of workers there.

OB website update from Ronna:

“8-Fold Guide” and “So You Want to Be a Protestor” (OB principles of process) are now on website. These two documents are the basis for OBGA meetings.

Moved Mail Chimp sign up to most visible location on home page to encourage new members. Currently 267 names on list serve.

“Does the Government Represent the People?” new video from Represent.US posted on homepage.

 Healthy Bellingham update from Debbie:

OB invited to join labor unions and Jobs With Justice to work on an initiative that requires all Bellingham businesses some kind of sick leave/year to employees. Healthy Bellingham has not decided on initiative language. They are modeling after other successful cities. Seven days a year is just one option.  Councilor Roxanne Murphy will introduce initiative language at July 6, 2015 City Council meeting. OB should plan to attend the public hearing meeting for this initiative when it is scheduled.

Banners:

Peter requests bamboo for poles; Ronna reminds him that her yard is replete with bamboo for his taking.

Peter requests people to tie on letters; Debbie offers to do so; others needed for letters tying.

 Miscellaneous:

• Waterfront Redevelopment – Blue-Green Alliance meets Wednesday, May 27, at Northwood Hall on Northwest Ave.
• County Charter Review Commission – all encouraged to continue attending and participating in these important meetings that restructure county governance, for worse or better.
• Education – Watch for Gates Foundation as funder of corporate/privatized education.

Meeting adjourned at ~ 4 pm

MAY 15, 2015 OCCUPY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Ellen, Charles, Terry, Karen, Peter, Debbie (fac), Alys, Margaret, Ronna (notes), Dianne

BANNER BUILDING PARTY  Peters on Saturday May 16 at 1100 and Wednesday May 20 at 1200. 2332 Hemmi Road ( you will see a large red barn at the front of the property with 2 houses in back)

Karen – commenting on the Rachel Maddow show and two subjects that we could look into:

5/14/15 segment that provides detailed current report on Shell No protests in Seattle, history of the offending Shell vessels, and interview with Seattle City Councilman Mike O’Brien (kyactivist). This current segment is available on YouTube at from 25.19 – 36 minutes (segments 6 and 7).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li_lWYUHxCM, Another one by Rachel Maddow on Shell Oil – this is a YouTube on the subject.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izxPKT0Ph6I

Rachel Maddow on the Swedish response to a Russian military Submarine  http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow/watch/swedish-group-answers-russian-aggression-445888067694

sHellNo resistance festival in Bellingham – It will start on Friday May 22 at the vigil corner at 4:00 pm.  There will be speakers and then a march to a shell station (not known) and then on to Boundary Bay where there will be more speakers.  There will be no meeting this week of the planning group because of the activities in Seattle.  Stay tuned to the Facebook page for actions in Bellingham https://www.facebook.com/shellnoactioncouncil

Not clear yet what will happen on Saturday or Sunday.  Ronna asked to get a flier ASAP so she can post to the web site.  The hope is to have people powered craft in the water of the whatcom Waterway to protest the Arctic Challenger docked here.  Debbie will email to the Mail Chimp list if she can get the information to post.  Fliers should be available at the vigil today (they weren’t).  The team forming for the event may act autonomously.

Ellen:  Announced she is planning an action.  After listening and modest discussion OCCUPY members present showed her full support for actions to work on behalf of the treaties.

Charles announced a Community Potluck sponsored by the Green Party on Tuesday May 26 at Fairhaven Park shelter from 5:30 – 7:30

MTA:  Debbie announced that we need to get 26 pages a week in order to meet the goal to get this petition on the ballot.  She asks if anybody has Facebook to please send out an ask to friends to go to the MoveToAmend-Whatcom Facebook and sign in on Mail Chimp to volunteer. https://www.facebook.com/mtaWhatcom

Alys – gave out a handout re: use of rare earth elements to build wind turbines.  She indicated it did not need discussion.

SEIU 1199 STRIKE at ST. Joes:  Several present attended this strike and commented on the organization and the huge crowd.  Further news is that they are locked out for 3 days in lieu of temporary workers being hired with a 3-day contract.  Margaret gathered some signatures at this event.

TPP:  Dianne reported that there have been three actions this week during the week.  Tuesday and Wednesday at 2 – wanted to have students bring post cards to Larsen’s office.  Virtually none showed even though Dianne had made a visit to the class at WWU after Stan Storcher’s speech to the group.  Friday at 12 there was a “shoe drop” and about 45 people attended that and made statements  Dianne read a statement that was videotaped by Ronna (who is working to figure out how to send).  There was passion and anger at this event.  The senate has voted no and then 24 hours later voted to pass TPA with mitigating factors that they inserted.  We need to call every day to our representatives (Larsen and DelBene) to express our outrage and ask them to vote no on TPA (fast track)  Karen reminded us that we can watch Elizabeth Warren and her comments about the ISDS portion of the TPP.  The call-ins host excellent guest presenters, then Q&A and regional reports. Next call scheduled 6/14, 4:30 pm PDT – http://peopledemandingaction.org/

Dianne informed us that we can find letters on the PDA site that are appropriate for conservative minded folks.

Charles introduced the idea that we could spend time learning Lummi words.  Ronna read a statement that is read before meetings at BUF and all agreed we could start our meetings with it.

 Acknowledgement of our Coast Salish Neighbors

“We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Lummi and Nooksack Peoples.

Their presence is imbued in these mountains, valleys waterways, and shorelines.

May we nurture our relationship with our Coast Salish neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today.”

Meeting adjourned at 3:50.  A lively and enthusiastic discussion ensued, off agenda, about the hand out by Alys.

May 8, 2015 – OCCUPY BELLINGHAM TERRA 

Debbie (fac), Ronna (notes), Karen, Alyce, Charles, Margaret, Peter, Alys, Terry, Ellen, Dianne (late after shoe drop), Marcia

OCCUPY PROCESS and review of hand signals was read and explained by Debbie.  All present agreed this was a helpful tactic to help the group stay on track during a meeting.

Debbie made a suggestion (pre-proposal) that OCCUPY politely ask new people to the OB-GA to observe during their first meeting and at the 2^nd meeting get an orientation packet.  All hands twinkle up.

The following comments were made:

IF the new person had a contribution, they could add to an established agenda

IF they sincerely had things to offer, they should have a chance to do so.

We need “open spaces” – introduction of why they came to this meeting

IF we have a “ritual” at the beginning of a meeting could be helpful, i.e., some music, reading the principles of process, etc.

After discussion, Debbie withdrew her suggestion/pre-proposal.  All agreed to start with reading of the principles and a review offhand signals.

Margaret asked that for anybody sending out information about an action please add the date, place and time to the announcement.  Ronna indicated most events/actions are spelled out o the calendar with all relevant information.  A member present indicated not knowing about the OCCUPY web site.  Ronna will make new business cards for us all to have to use and pass out.

Terry reported on the www.sHellNo.org actions and announced the Festival of Resistance being planned for Bellingham.  Bellingham (https://www.facebook.com/risingtidebellingham) is host to a support vessel, the Arctic Challenger and local folks are planning local resistance to this part of the fleet.  He reviewed the reasons for the planned actions, i.e., the Arctic Challenger is a support vessel for the drill rigs which cannot operate without it and that it may be leaving our port within the coming month.

Terry invited members present to:

1. A local planning group meeting on Sunday May 10 at 6:15 in the Salish Sea Sanctuary building at 1308 Cornwall Ave. He explained how this group works with affinity groups and spokes council.
2. Meet with Terry after meeting to set up a time to do an art build for these actions. (meeting ran late an Terry had to leave)
3. Take photo of this group in front of Save the Arctic sign. (ran out of time)

TPP – Ronna reported that Dianne was hosting the latest action, a shoe drop – “don’t walk away from us, etc.” at Larsen’s from 12 – 4.  There were about 45 people in attendance and folks continued to drift in throughout the time.  Dianne got to GA late and no time for comment on the action.  All present are reminded to contact legislators AGAIN, even though we have done this often.

I-735  www.wamend.org Karen reported on the Kickoff event held on Saturday May 9 at the Boundary Bay Beer garden.  She met some folks who couldn’t find the vent and suggested we have better signage at the next event.  The state reports that over 6,000 signatures were gathered in the first week.  Whatcom County was  large contributor.  We had 20 sheets completed by May 9.  WAMEND has a new web site up and running.

Charter Review Commission:  Ronna reported about this from her COAL ACTIVIST meeting at ReSources.  http://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/290/2015-Whatcom-County-Charter-Review-Commi Next meeting will be Monday May 11 t Civic Center on Commercial (old Hizzoner’s Deli across from Downtown library)  We discussed district only voting as the big issue and the suggestions from ReSources that we might speak to a motion to Vote in districts for 1 candidate and vote for 4 at large candidates (referred to as 3-4 voting).  Several alternative motions have been brought up to change the outcome, some of which involve making more districts.  It is gerrymandering that is an issue here and we should oppose such strategies.

The following comments were made:

• The importance of attending these hearings and speak out to maintain a semblance of fairness to the election of county council members.
• Careful scrutiny and vigilance of the amendments being considered. There are 5 amendments being considered for the 11^th.  You can find them here http://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/1553/Proposed-Amendments
• Folks are reminded that whatever amendments get approved it will be up to the voters in November to approve each of them. There will be a few months to educate the public about what they will be voting on and OCCUPY will have a hand in that.

Charles reported that he asked R. May to propose the amendment he asked for at the April 27 meeting about his proposed amendment about Nature’s Trust.  Here is how it was reported in the minutes (Charles Law submitted a handout (on file) and spoke about the common  watershed of Whatcom.)  His statement is here:

The Common Watershed of Whatcom Charter

As members of The Common, We hereby petition The Public Trust and proclaim the rights, privileges, and protections for the Common Watershed of Whatcom.

As defined;  the Common Watershed of Whatcom is the area of land from which rainwater and snowmelt drain into common creeks, wetlands, lakes, rivers and streams within the Common Watershed of Whatcom;

• We call upon the state and the commoners to adhere to and be responsible for The Rights of rivers, creeks and streams as part of, and to flow within the common watershed without hindrance and to marauder without impedance.
• We call upon the state and the commoners to adhere to and be responsible for The Privileges of lakes as part of, and to settle within low lying areas of, said common watershed and become a haven and refreshment for fish and wildlife within.
• We call upon the state and the commoners to adhere to and be responsible for The Protection of lakes, rivers, creeks and streams within the common watershed from pollution due to cultivation, aeration or mill.
• We call upon the state and the commoners to provide within said common watershed, the access to, and the safeguard of these natural resources for all community members.
• And finally, We call upon the state and the commoners to adhere to and be responsible for the freedom of the common watershed from mitigation without injury to neighbor or beast.

Submitted by Charles Law at Whatcom Charter Review Commission hearing April 27, 2015

Clean Energy Activist: Ronna also reports that ReSources is asking for organizations/people to host a community forum to discuss and educate the public about Oil train safety.  She asks OCCUPY BELLINGHAM to consider hosting such an event here at TERRA for the downtown community. No discussion.

Clean Energy Activist: Ronna reminds us to be sure to call-in to Senator D. Ericksen doug.ericksen@leg.wa.gov. (if he’s your man!) about bill 1912 to maintain one of the solar incentives  available to us in Washington.  http://app.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1912&year=2015#history

Alys presented a T-shirt design for consideration.  She has had some shirts made through AMJAY printing.  The T-shirts are designed to support the Lummi Nation and their treaty rights.  Discussion ensued:

• Should OCCUPY BELLINGHAM support this? Does our Mission support this?
• What is the cost? $40 up front for layout and then about $8 per T-shirt.
• Effort was to have them ready for Ski To Sea celebration and sell them to the public.
• Can the back say something about treaty rights (HONOR THE TREATY(IES) and/or have an OCCUPY BELLINGHAM logo?
• Should the Lummi Nation be informed of this effort and permission sought (after some discussion the result is NO, the Lummi Nation expects and asks us to act on our own and find ways “on our own” to support treaty rights.
• The logo is not quite accurate in that the Constitution, article 6 does not mention coal. IT is about treaty rights.

No Decision was reached about support of her effort.  Donations are acceptable.

BANNER BUILD:  Peter spoke about the banner build event at his house (2332 E. Hemmi Road) on Tuesday 12^th from 3-5 pm.  Ronna passed out a list of potential banner slogans and asks folks to comment and/or propose others.  Agreement to start on

HONOR THE TREATIES [should it be TREATY (singular?)]

SAVE THE SALISH SEA

STOP COAL

 Adjourned at 4:10

May 1, 2015  Occupy Bellingham Terra Market 2:30  p.m.

Present: Alyce (minutes), Alys,  Beatrice,  Charles,  Dianne,  Ellen,  Herb,  Jon,   Marcia,  Peter,  Ronna (moderator),  Stephanie,  Terry

Announcements:

May 3  Farm Workers March,  7 a.m., Lynden,  9 Sikh school,    10, La Gloria, Laurel,   2 p.m. Maritime Heritage Park

May 4 Resources meeting, 7 p.m., Clean Energy activists

May 5, maybe 6, 2 p.m. deliver message on TPP to Larson’s office in Bellingham Tower,

May 7 ”Coal Road to China” film, 7 p.m. BUF

May 8  Day of action  Shoe Drop at offices of Larson (Bellingham) and DelBene (Mt Vernon) See TPP below.

May 9  Activists meeting at Larabee Park (posted to calendar)

May 11  County Charter review meeting

May 16 -18  Shell flotilla resistance Seattle  www.Shellno.org

May 18 County Charter review meeting, Firs

Charter review:  Alys reminded all of the importance of attending Charter Review Commission meetings and speaking out for fairness in their deliberations.  There needs to be more exposure about them – write LTE, work on getting an op ed piece.  Suggested that these longer news pieces may be more relevant upon seeing what will be on the ballot.

TPP:  Dianne reported that action is heating up and http://www.citizenstrade.org/ctc/  wants to “up the ante”.  Dianne will organize with college students, Shirley Osterhaus class to get students to come to Larsen’s office to hand in post cards.  Dianne passed  out post cards to each of us and asked that we send the post card to Larsen or DelBene.  On May 8 at 12 noon – we are to gather in Larsen’s office (Gillian is organizing to go to DelBene’s  in Bothell)   with an old pair of shoes into which is posted a note indicating how Larsen is “walking away from – – – – – – [insert your views here]”

Glyphosate Report by Stephanie:  Stephanie made a statement on the spraying of glyphosate (Round Up) along county roads to the County Council.  Barbara Brenner put her in touch with Nancy, a scientist who lives on Lummi Island.  Nancy has written an article that has been accepted for publication in Whatcom Watch in June.  The county must enter record on spraying within 5 days.  In Maine and on Harvard Campus, an alternative, BeSafe, is being used.  We need letters to the Editor and presence at the County Council.  Alys presented information on the spraying of a neurotoxin to kill shrimp on Willapa Bay & Grays Harbor oyster beds.  We need to follow issue and look for a video on the topic.  And relationship to kidney failure and cancers and damage to the environment.  Taylor shellfish does not plan to spray their oyster beds.

Banner Making:  Peter is willing to hold a banner making day at his farm.  Preparation involves, letter making fabric, netting, orange paint, poles, twist ties.  Suggested work time, Tuesday, May 12, 3-5 at 2332 East Hemmi Road.  Ronna sent around some possible slogans for banners related to our local coal issue.

 Homelessness Issue:  Beatrice told of being on the verge of homelessness.  It is clear that the issue of homelessness and mental health are present in our community.  She also reminded us of the issues of the jail, policing and bureaucracy in Whatcom County.

Climate Chaos:  Jon spoke on how to raise the consciousness of climate change.  This year Ski to Sea event is dealing with the 2nd time in history that the ski legs have to be cancelled due to lack of snow.  How do we connect this to climate change and the mourning of local skiers for the loss of their 2 Ski To Sea legs?  Herb (late coming in and not on the agenda)  suggested that we engage kayakers to join the blockade of the Arctic spill-capping equipment in Bellingham Bay.  Discussion ensued and folks were reminded that this meeting was not a working group and that folks interested in joining this effort to plan and organize a local event should connect with Herb Goodwin or Jon Shaunessy.  Ronna reminded folks that she is watching www.shellno.org for news of actions at the end of the three days of action (MAY 18)  in Seattle that will be more land based resistance.  Will organize car pools around this if possible.  Stay tuned.  Opinion was voiced that it is nice to have events in Bellingham and not take the long travel to Seattle.

Ronna passed around a planning sheet from the 99% Spring training booklet.

Adjourned at 4:10

 4/24/2015

Peter, Stephanie (minutes), Margaret, Alys, Charles, Herb, Marcia, Ellen

Announcements:

Charles; Peace vigil today at 4:00, Saturday, 4/25 annual spring fest for Sikhs 8:30AM – 9:00PM. Also on 4/25, Vancouver organizers oil spill demonstration English Bay 4:00PM. Monday 4/27, Charter Review Ferndale Library 6:30. Tuesday, 4/28, tea party talk on healthcare 5:30 1650 Bakercreek place http://whatcomteaparty.org/  Also on Tuesday, Merchants of Doubt at Pickford http://www.pickfordfilmcenter.org/programs/pickford/merchants-of-doubt/

Peter; Went to lecture on civil disobedience with Katherine Harrison from U of BC. There is a civil disobedience action training Saturday 4/25 at 11:30 at Fairhaven college courtyard.

Alys; Went to job creations workshop at Resources, discussed making Bellingham a theme destination place.

Ellen; Discussion on Neuro Linguistic Programming, Alys to set up workshops on NLP.  Questioned what Rick Larsen said at recent town hall meeting regarding the Lummi treaty rights and the constitution.

Herb; sHellNo launch event at Myrtle Edwards Park Sunday 2:00PM 3130 Alaska Way, Seattle. May 16-18, weekend of resistance main event. Backbone will be doing several events on the water.

Past Business:

Peter; Wants to do workshop remaking “Support Treaty Rights” banner as well as doing a light projection for this cause.  Also wants to do street theater or other suggestion with news media. Group recommendations were he start a working group. Will discuss again next week.

New Business:

Charles; threw out the question how women feel about protecting our property. States Kurdish women are on frontlines fighting ISIS and there is limited coverage in alternative news media and no coverage in main stream media. Discussed the possibility of men becoming more feminized and women more masculine due to environmental and other factors.

Reports: 

Herb; over 100 people trained so far for sHellNo flotilla. Will be training in Bellingham next week. Alys questioned the permit for the Shell Platform. Herb to send information regarding the permitting and reversing Seattle’s decision regarding the Shell platform.  http://www.boem.gov/shell-chukchi/

Charles; TPP talk Wednesday 4/29, 12:00PM – 1:20PM Haggard Hall.  http://www.occupybellinghamwa.org/event/trade-agreements-reveal-how-life-will-be-organized-in-2050/?instance_id=2607, Went to single payer healthcare talk, concerned if TPP is approved medical supply costs will increase.

Marcia; discussed privatization of education funding, states lack of union representation. Per article Charles passed around, Pearson has 5 year contract with DOE. Discussed funding for “Professional Development for GED Teachers”, possible Go Fund Me campaign.

Herb; put out a proposal to Occupy B’ham, and many other groups, to  support an Infinity Group to get more flotilla participants. Each group to provide a flotilla participant and kayak. Training will be provided. Will discuss again next week.

 

 

17 APRIL 2015 

Present:  Alyce (minutes),  Alys,  Charles,  Debbie,  Ellen,  Karen,  Marcia,  Peter,  Ronna

Announcements

Peter announced that “we need to have a direct action on the tracks and we need young            people to join us”.  He agreed to get in touch with youth from WWU and lead a working group          on this subject.  Others present agreed to help him find connections to WWU student groups.

4/17  Labor-Sponsored TPP-Fast Track Rally,  1 p.m.,  Pioneer Park,  Ferndale

We will bring the large banners and need people to hold them

4/20/     Film RESIST (unistoten call to the land in BC) at BUF at 7:00

4/22  Kathryn Harrison speaking at WWU World Issues Forum, 12 noon Haggard Hall

Professor from UBC on Civil Disobedience and Climate Change: Does it Work?”

4/22  Move to Amend Whatcom meeting 6 p.m. Terra Kickoff preparations

4/23  Karen announced: Faith Action Network and Washington Fair Revenue Coalition are seeking people from                                                 around the state who can provide firsthand accounts of negative impacts on quality of life and/or public                                    services caused by state budget cuts in recent years. They will provide transportation and lodging                                                 support on a case-by-case basis for travel to testify in Olympia. They will be filming testimony in a “mock                   public hearing” to support a state budget that includes revenue creation. The event is this Thursday,                                      4/23 Karen has requested clarification from FAN as the event notice gave conflicting dates.                                                         Contact Karen by email for update – evolvingdemocracy@gmail.com.

4/25  WAmend Kick off in Seattle.  Ronna, Margaret &, Alyce plan to carpool.  Contact Ronna                                                                      360-305-2936 for any  additional riders.

4/27 Charter Review Commission meeting at 6:30 pm Ferndale Public Library; 2125 Main Street

4/29  Stan  Sorscher, President of WA Fair Trade Coalition, at World Issues Forum, 12 noon,

WWU, Haggard Hall 253

5/2     Bellingham Kick off for I-735 11-3 at Boundary Bay to distribute petitions and launch                                                                            campaign

5/3   Farm workers March for Dignity  Lynden to Maritime Heritage Park, Bellingham 8 a.m.

To 2 p.m. Potluck at Heritage Park

5/7 (Error in date now corrected) – FILM Coal Road to China showing at BUF at 7:00 -10:00                 https://www.facebook.com/events/634251799981922/

Ronna announced that the OB calendar is up to date and asks all to send her any events they receive via their                 email contacts.

Reports:

Ellen reported on her study on Treaty Rights coming from Section 5 of the pt Elliot Treaty of 1855  http://www.goia.wa.gov/treaties/treaties/pointelliot.htm   The Pt. Elliot Treaty of 1855 was between the Native nations and the settler community.  Rick Larson at last Town Hall supported the idea that the US Constitution trumps the Native Nation rights.  Since the Lummi have led the way to object to the coal terminal to the Corp of Engineers the publicity “machine” is attacking them.  The issue between the Lummi and Crow is exaggerated. An article by Winona LaDuke answers some questions http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2014/01/15/crow-lummi-dirty-coal-clean-fishing-153086 We all must honor the treaties and the Lummi people and follow their lead, but we must do what we can.  Are there “settler” water issues we can expose, especially with the newly-declared drought emergency exceptions to rules. The following site is about the Pine Ridge poster project re: HONOR THE TREATY http://nativeamericannetroots.net/diary/1000

Ellen asks that the following statement be added:

Could you add that I highly recommended Sandy Robson’s articles on coalstop.com for excellent in-depth information on the propaganda strategy of coal-export interests.

Alys reported on her insights following the Charter Review meeting on 4/13 where there was failed communication.  Alys gave examples from Thom Hartmann’s “Cracking the Code” how the meaning of a message is the response it gets.  We need to quit playing “their” game as we also understand language and brain processing.  (neural linguistic programming) http://www.nlpu.com/NewDesign/NLPU_WhatIsNLP.html.   Feeling and thinking are related.  If we want to be heard we need to work on messaging.  Alys agreed to facilitate a new working group and will find ways and times to coach us.  Alys shared copies of a sample speech she has written using effective language.  She asks that we all read and respond.  There was lively discussion, some disagreement as to the effectiveness of NLP referring to it as “A lower mind approach to messaging”..  Ronna reminded those present that OCCUPY studied George Lakoff (Don’t Think of an Elephant; Know Your Values and Frame the Debate, 2014 ).

Alyce reported on the Dems meeting and that they will adopt a version of Represent.US and their AACA and that the CARBONWA group introduced their petition drive to get a tax on carbon pollution.  WAMEND got announced at this meeting.  Alyce and Naltilie McCLendon met with Cal Bratt about getting better coverage of the news from a more progressive angle and were given advice by the editor on how to go about it.

Marcia updated us on her search to find more about the prosecution of Atlanta teachers for “cheating

on the results from the Pearson-owned tests given their students.  Racketeering! Who is following up on the case or carrying forward the message of the problem of faulty testing?  Amy Goodman, Black Lives Matter.  There are reports of more schools teachers and students resisting the strangle-hold of the “required” tests.   (Nathan Hale in Seattle)

Some web sites related to this story:

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/14/us/sentencing-begins-for-atlanta-educators-in-schools-cheating-scandal.html?_r=0

Several articles here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/news/atlanta-cheating-scandal/

Ronna suggested getting in touch with OCCUPY Atlanta.

We reviewed hand Occupy signals for new members

 Out

Of a great need

We are all holding hands

And Climbing.

Not loving is a letting go.

Listen,

The terrain around here

Is

Far too

Dangerous

For

That.

 

“A Great Need”, thirteenth century Persian poet Hafiz.  In Parker J. Palmer’s Healing the Heart of Democracy  p. 47

10 APRIL 2015

Alyce, Alys, Karen, Marcia, Stephanie, Jennifer, Charles, Margaret, Peter, Ronna, Debbie

Announcements:

Occupy the Farm last night at Pickford was very moving. Ronna was asked to say something about OB! There were about 50 people there.

Indiana’s Religious Freedom Act- Margaret let us know that there are several products from companies in Indiana that we could boycott, if we wish. Clabber Girl, Nesquick, Coffemate, Red/Gold Tomatoes, Barkeepers Friend, Vera Bradley, Eli Lilly. Apparently, the bill was amended enough to make Jay Inslee stop banning state employees from going there.

New Chants: Margaret found some good chants on the internet. Ronna will type them out and send to group.

Represent Us:  is presenting resolution to support American Anti Coruption Act at the COunty Council meeting Tuesday, April 14, 2015. Support Wendy’s effort and show up for this! Come at 6:30 for a photo.

 

Whatcom Democrats: meeting Wed. April 15th 7 pm at Library Wendy from Represent Us will speak, as will Steven Gockley from MTA Whatcom.

WAMend Petition Kick-off Events- April 2th and May2ndThese were mentioned in the last newsletter, Debbie will forward to OB GA, in case you missed it. The bellingham event is still being planned.

BNSF Railroad wants to close Valley View Road crossing: see article in this week’s 4/8 Cascadia Weekly.

Rally Against the TPP and Fast Track

Also in the newsletter. Ferndale April 18th Saturday.

WA Fair Trade Coalition tells us that TPA  (Trade Promotion Authority or fast track) could be introduced in the senate on 4/20.

Citizens Trade Watch thinks that could be 4/13.

In other words, if you have not called Larsen, Delbenne, Cantwell and Murray, do it now.

 Charter Review Commission will take on district only voting. Monday April 13th. 7 pm Meeting is in the Civic Center Garden Room, across from the library and city hall. The plan is to gerrymander to only allow 1 progressive council member, and make the  at large representative, only in the unincorporated part of the county. Show up to support the system that is in place now. (Note: We already voted for it! )

Living Wage Rally- Jobs with Justice is gathering with fast food workers at the Sehome Haggens, on Wed. 4/15 9:30 AM to rally for a livable wage for all workers. We could also put pressure on our co-op to pay all employees a living wage.

Outreach

Alys has met some folks that did not know that Occupy Bellingham existed. Some folks are not clear on what we stand for. We had a lively discussion on why we are here, a little history, our efforts to get more folks involved. We discussed the lack of young folks. Charles suggested that Climate change was an issue that is real and important to the younger folks. Our messaging on other topics should be done in such a way to speak to a wider audience. Karen mentioned Chris Hedges Video on LinkTV.org on Non violent Direct Action. Debbie suggested making an Outreach Working Group. If anyone is interested in working on this, we can support with our facebook, and email.

Pre-proposal

Demand #19 “Establish and Maintain a strong Commons

Ronna wrote some new language for demand #19 that includes the concept of Public Trust Doctrine (this was brought to the group at last week’s meeting by Peter, see minutes). She felt it was important to include accountability of elected officials, their fiduciary duty, and illegal nature of forsaking the public trust. She passed out language, and will send to OB GA email group. We will vote on it next week.

(Editor’s Note: I must say, it is so lovely to see so many new faces around the table.

Thanks to all who dedicated their afternoon to the vision that is Occupy.)

Adjourned!

4/3/15              

Present: Alyce, Alys, Charles, Debbie, Dianne, Herb, Marcia, Peter, Ronna, Stephanie

Announcements:  April 3,             First Friday with Swil Kanim   7 p.m

Light display on granary             dusk

April 9                Occupy the Farm, Pickford Theatre, 6:30 p.m.

April 25              State kickoff for I-735 amendment Seattle

OB hand soap now is for sale again at the Alternative Library.

Herb’s picture of on the cover of Whatcom Watch with his resistance story inside.

Reports

Stephanie reported on the Rick Larsen Town Hall meeting 4/2 at WWU. This was her first town hall and she saw how controlled the questions and answers are.  There were 3 questions on TPP and Fast Track.  On the question of power of corporations to sue when nations change laws he would only repeat that the laws that ARE in force will be maintained.  He had read 85% or 25% of the document.

Peter gave a book report on Mary Christina Wood’s Environmental Law for a New Ecological Age.  This law text book evaluates our “70’s environmental laws” and how they have missed the previous, historic laws going back to Common Law  in Europe and the 7^thgeneration principle of indigenous people here.  Governments have fiduciary obligation.  The book is available through the Whatcom Library.

On TPP-Fast Track.  Our US senators/representatives seem willing to support the trade pact—at least will not come out against it.  Debbie attended a meeting with Mark Lowry and labor leaders.  They successfully  presented and got the vote of Bellingham City Council to oppose the pact. There will be a labor-lead National Day of Action on April 18^th.  Dianne agreed to send out links for the conference calls.  Debbie will post notes about TPP for the newsletter.

Move to Amend report by Ronna.  There will be a meeting of the local group on Wed. April, 8 to make further plans for the upcoming campaign for the demand for the state legislature to vote on the initiative that now is named I-735.  The name is “Getting money out of Elections”.  The state kickoff of April 25 in Seattle and the local group is working on a kickoff soon after in Whatcom County.  Ronna will write this up for the newsletter.

Charles gave an update on the issue of laws dealing with solar panels and utilities buying back electricity.  Jeff Morris’ bill for this session was pulled out due to complications.  He will keep an eye on it in future sessions.  This matter might foster consumption rather than conservation.  We all need to think deeper.

UFCW (Food and Cannery Union) is dealing with local issues of fair pay for workers.  Currently there is discussion between supporting  $15 minimum wage vs. mandatory sick leave,  Study continues.

Marcia continues to investigate how privately owned standardized tests are hurting education in our public schools.  There is resistance as shown at the Seattle Garfield HS students who struck and invalidated the test.  This week teachers in Atlanta have been charged with racketeering for changing test scores of students in their schools.  This shows the intense pressure the tests put on teachers and schools.  It seems that these teachers are being investigated and sentenced more severely that the banksters who crashed the economy of our whole country.  We will increase exposure of the issue.

Debbie suggested that we prepare a newsletter by next week to send to the people on our mailing chimp.  Alyce will prepare a report on the Occupy the Farm movie.  Peter will write about the Unist’ot’en’s call to resistance and other indigenous issues.  Dianne will write on the TPP issue.

 

 27 MARCH 2015

Peter, Alys, Alyce, Dianne, Debbie, Margaret, Ronna (notes), Stephanie, Charles, Marcia

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Alyce reported that she will attend a second meeting of the 42^nd democrats to study the Wellstone project and its long-range application to local politics. http://www.wellstone.org/ and the book they are using “The Conscience of a Liberal” by Senator Paul Wellstone
• April 2 (Thursday) Rick Larsen’s Town Hall 6:30 – 7:30 pm WWU – Academic Instruction Center Building Lecture Hall 210 Enter from Bill MacDonald Pkwy, park in south lot, building is on East College Way. Folks are invited to Dianne house at 5:00 (926 Mason St., corner of Mason and Laurel) to formulate questions to ask about TPP.
• Ronna passed around a web site for a national OCCUPY group. She met a woman from this group on the last TPP call.  occupy.com
• Ronna mentioned an upcoming TPP call and sent around the sign up information. Here is a link to other weekly calls.  http://www.flushthetpp.org/national-fast-track-resistance-weekly-calls/
• Backbone campaign http://www.backbonecampaign.org/ is hosting their annual action camp on Vashon (headquarters) again this summer. We discussed sending a person from OCCUPY to this event.  Suggestion made that it be a “young” person.
• The City of Bellingham will have a meeting about granting sick leave for employees. Debbie agreed to attend this meeting and report.
• There are a few Lummi events coming up which Ronna will post to the OCCUPY calendar.
• April 3 – FIRST FRIDAY WITH SWIL KANIM. Event at the Lummi Gateway Center 4920 Rural Rd in Ferndale.

REPORTS:

MTA

• The committee met on Wednesday.
• We have disaffiliated with the National MTA group for now as we plan to be very busy with the upcoming petition drive and could not meet the obligations of the National group.
• WAMEND is an affiliate and we are part of the state coalition. We will be seeking a new name soon and a working group has been formed to work on that.
• A group will meet on Monday at 5:30 at Debbie’s to plan for a kickoff event to initiate the petition drive. The Kick off will occur on or around April 25 so be watching.  Here’s a link to WAMEND with the latest information http://us7.campaign-archive1.com/?u=140161aab15478e0b58358cfa&id=55a7b813fe&e=71d1e33ef8

TPP

• OCCUPY BELLINGHAM has been busy with actions, bannering on the freeway overpass, light shows on buildings, attending town hall meetings of legislators, writing LTEs, Calling representatives, getting the word out to call attention to this new trade deal. Yet we meet folks on the street who don’t know what we’re talking about!
• Move On.org has said they will oppose Wyden (author of Fast Track bill) if he moves forward with a bill to fast track the TPP. http://front.moveon.org/oregon-moveon-members-if-sen-wyden-supports-fast-track-for-tpp-well-back-a-progressive-challenger-in-2016-primary/#.VRmkBvnF98E The link to tell Sen. Wyden what you think is
• An entire chapter of the TPP has been leaked https://wikileaks.org/tpp-investment/WikiLeaks-TPP-Investment-Chapter/page-1.html that deal with the Investor Dispute Settlement. Senator Elizabeth Warren has spoken out about this chapter.
• April 18 – we will have a light show during the downtown art walk. Please join us!  We will be shining the light on the Granary building.  While we are shining the light, we need folks to pass out handbills.
• Get in on calls: http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=33602bebba8fb7dd6e71fb413&id=37b06ab592&e=367ba61922
• This link will get you to your representative to say NO ON FAST TRACK http://action.citizen.org/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=12703
• There has been a great deal of “astro-turfing” lately from the White House as the President tries to sell this deal to the public. Many of these messages have come to you via the OB list serve.
• Contact Dianne Foster with questions.

CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION

Alyce reported her observations after spending 2 hours at the last meeting.  There were about 35 people in attendance and she said it was “instructive”.  There was not vote on the redistricting they want to propose.  There will be another meeting on 2 weeks.  The link is here:

http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/290/2015-Whatcom-County-Charter-Review-Commi then see calendar on the right.

ReSources Job Alternative Committee.  Charles and Ronna participated in the second meeting of this group.  The topic brought up many comments from this group.

• “I remember when people had access to freezer lockers for food they bought in bulk or preserved.”
• The group can look at what the community buys or needs.
• Might want to attend “green Drinks” sponsored by ReSources to network with folks talking about green energy
• Charles brought up HB2045 Promoting development of reliable distributed energy resources through extending and modifying an existing tax incentive for certain net metering systems, preserving the existing ground rules for net metering until net metering systems’ generating capacity equals 0.5 percent of the utility’s 1996 peak demand, requiring distribution resources planning, and authorizing a reliability charge and other alternatives to existing ground rules for net metering, for a utility that has achieved the existing 0.5 percent interconnection requirement for net metering systems for A public hearing is scheduled for April 1 so go here to make a comment about this bill. http://app.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2045&year=2015 Charles made the following comment “Let’s not penalize the solar industry as we continue to subsidize fossil fuels”
• Some of the local solar industries view this, as “anti-solar” Charles has been unable to get a response from EcoTek or Western Solar.
• Alys is interested in joining this conversation – Ronna will let Matt know.

PRIVATIZATION:

There is an article in the Bellingham Herald about the Common Core.

There is an effort underway in Bellingham to establish a local broadband service as a public utility.  Broadband companies are fighting these actions across the nation.  Just put “against the broadband” into your browser.  Debbie and Ronna have joined this group.

ENVIRONMENT:

• Stephanie reported on an issue she is working on – END ROUND UP ON OUR COUNTY ROADS. Many in this meeting gave a great round of applause for this action.
• She has talked to B. Brenner who is willing to present it to the County Council. There will be a newly hired PulicWORks director who , she hopes will be in favor of this action.
• She will work to get a public hearing on this issue but also favors the idea of it being an executive decision.
• There is a new report from WHO about the carcinogenic effect from glyphosates. http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/widely-used-herbicide-linked-to-cancer/
• She plans to introduce a ban of neonicitoids (thought to be killing bees) and others in today’s group added 2-4D to the list.

Adjourned at 4:00 and Peter asked to be on the agenda for next week.

March 20, 2015  

Ronna (notes), Charles, Stephanie, Alyce, Peter, Dianne, Marcia, Debbie

Announcements:

Today: TPP bannering at 4:15 unless is raining and gusting too hard.  Will decide at end of meeting.

MARCH 25 MTA meeting at Terra.  There will be full report at the next GA.  Some changes are in the works.

MARCH 25 Margaret will travel to Olympia with Sierra Club to lobby for closing the PSE coal fired plant in Montana

MARCH 27 5:30 at the Machinist building in Ferndale.  Natalie McClendon, chair of 42^nd Dems will continue the workshop on the Wellstone Process.

APRIL 10   Diane will address the 40^th Dems meeting and speak about Ukraine and TPP.

APRIL 29   The Spring quarter World Issues Forum will feature the TPP

Charles mentioned that SEIU is “about ready to strike” here is the web site for keeping track. http://www.seiu1199nw.org/ Peace Health SEIU employees will vote on contract 3/18 & 3/19.

Stephanie asked more about RepresentUS and was given a handout with the web site and here it is for all of us. https://represent.us/

REPORT on TOWN HALL meeting of the 42^nd Olympia representatives.  Margaret, Alyce, Charles attended.  Many questions about TPP were asked and there was some yelling “lies” upon some of his answers.  Re: SB 5668 Enacting the Washington voting rights act. Ericksen said he would consider it and that “he doesn’t discriminate against legal residents.”  VanWerven was against it as she considered it “gerrymandering”.

When VanWerven was asked about amending the constitution. i.e., HB 4004 Calling on Congress to exercise its authority under Article V of the United States Constitution to regulate money spent on elections and  she spoke only to HB 4000 Asking congress to call a limited convention, authorized under Article V of the United States Constitution, for the purpose of proposing a free and fair elections amendment to that Constitution  stating she was against this as it would be  a “free for all”   Thus not commenting on the question.

Alyce asked about the safety of oil trains DE said “It’s not a problem” and LVW said, “we now have safe cars” indicating she is unaware that the last two derailments and explosions were with “safe” cars.  Rosalinda made the case for re-hiring farm workers and not  using the H2A program.  There was no response to her statement.

PRIVATIZATION: Here are some articles about the issue and how philanthropies such as GATES Foundation (in collusion with Pearson testing) are not always for the good of society.

http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/26320-the-charitable-society-or-how-to-avoid-the-poor-and-perpetuate-the-wealth-gap

http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/25644-the-gates-foundation-education-reform-hype-machine-bizarre-inequality-theory

http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/26851-the-movement-for-public-education-at-a-crossroads

Marcia tells us that the HB 1743 and SB 5676 Concerning the acceptance of additional high school equivalency tests is probably dead as neither of them has moved out of committee.  She spoke to Lytton a sponsor of the house version and she indicated she was still in favor.  Marcia is seeking new tactics and still on course to write a letter to the Herald and an op-ed piece.  Several of us present said we would author the price if her job was at stake.  All here agreed that privatizing education was hurting the poor and marginalized and hurting teachers at every level.  There was spirited discussion around the issue of the Common Core as more of us become educated about this issue.  Marcia asked that we always ask a person who favors Common Core if they have given a test.

The tests by Pearson (especially the GED) are flawed:  Poor pedagogy, poor design, and with many barriers to older students, the incarcerated and other marginalized groups such as no retakes, no recourse.

OCCUPY must advocate, “for those who know their students and are forced into cramming them into a box that they know will be too challenging and cause a failure”.

Dianne shared a comment posted to the WSJ article about how a “grader” for the Pearson test saw a story about abuse and had no recourse to report it as a teacher would have.  The “grader” could not know or learn the identity of the student.

TPP: 

Sunday is the conference call and Dianne reminds us that she sent the call notice out to our list serve.

Larsen is holding a town hall on APRIL 2 at 6:30 at the Academic Lecture Hall room 210.  Instead of bannering outside, we will meet at Dianne’s at 5:00 PM to formulate questions to ask inside Address is 926 Mason St., corner of Mason and Laurel. (one uphill).

Ronna is thanked for her LTE last week in the Weekly. Dianne has written a letter to the Weekly that is too long and will resubmit to Whatcom Watch as a letter (they take more words).  Both the Sierra Club http://www.sierraclub.org/ and Public Citizen https://www.citizen.org web sites have possible questions.  Use the search bar for TPP.

Some discussion of the Herald article about Hardware Sales and TPP.  Some have called them to ask how the owner could possibly know what he said in the paper since the deal is secret from us.  We encourage all to call in to ask and state your concerns.

Next week we will discuss possible actions during the TPP week of action later in April after legislators return to DC.

 

March 13, 2015

Attending: Alyce, Margaret, Peter, Stephanie, Debbie, Charles

Announcements

Tonight, movie at Resources, on Unist’ot’en resistance to the Enbridge Pipeline. 5:30

TPP

Several of us attended Rick Larsen’s town hall meetings and we brought up TPP.

Fast Track bill will be introduced in Senate earliest April 14th ish.

Debbie and Peter bannered on the ALabama overpass from 12-1:30. Southbound.

Peter suggests bannering at a different time of day next week, to get a different group of folks.  Debbie proposed 4-6 on Friday. Several people signed up to take a shift. If you are interested in helping, email or call debbie. If we can get enough folks, we can get out all three banners. She will bring flyers.

Overturning Citizens United

Alyce gave a brief update on what was going in with MTA Whatcom and the decision not to affiliate with the National group. WAmend will keep us busy with the new legislative initiative. It was submitted to Secretary of State on the 3/10 and expected petitions should be printed in 4-5 weeks.

Big kick-off events are planned for April 25th.

Oil Trains

Charles informed us of a webinar he participated in by a group called Alert.org. that is trying to fight oil train spills and leaks by way of presenting them to the EPA as violations to the Clean Water Act. They are involving also, OSHA, and DHSH which will expand the topic from just pollution, to human health risks and worker safety issues.

http://alertproject.org/

https://www.facebook.com/alertproject/timeline

Margaret shared a piece from a book she is reading about the oppression happening in Palestine.  The book is Noam Chomsky. Middle East Illusions.

March 6, 2015 

Peter, Ronna (notes), Marcia, Dianne, Debbie

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

March 9, Meeting of charter review commissioners to vote on amendment to stop funding social services.  Here is the link to the Herald article.   6:30 pm Civic Center 322 N. Commercial. http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2015/03/07/4169938_whatcom-charter-review-to-weigh.html?rh=1

MARCH 12: The Women’s Club will be meeting on Thursday, March 12th, at Jalapenos Restaurant in Barkley Village beginning at 11:30.  The address is 2945 Newmarket Place, Suite 101.  Our featured speaker this month will be Congressman Rick Larsen.  Please let us know if you plan to attend this meeting.  For more information or to RSVP, please call Linda Pace at 734-1697.

MARCH 13:  5:30 at ReSources.  Screening of the Unist’ot’en camp film.  We’re also receiving donations here at RE Sources, but to make sure they don’t get mixed up with store donations it’d be good if people can bring them to my office.

MARCH 24 – Ferndale Forum at 6:30 in the Ferndale Public Library.  This meeting will be about coal/oil trains and the impact on our county.

COAL/CLEAN ENERGY/OIL TRAINS (Ronna) There was much action at the coal activist meeting on March 2.  See above announcement.  The following web site contains information about what actions are important right now.  http://www.re-sources.org/ppc/take-action

ACTION:

1. Clean Energy is taking action on oil train safety to contact communities via phone banking and doorbelling. You can help by volunteering to host a “workshop” on oil trains.  At this meeting Peter Holcomb (Everson), Charles Law (Roosevelt neighborhood) and OCCUPY BELLINGHAM (would host at Terra) said they could work on hosting such an event.  Ronna will let Matt Petryni know.
2. Unistoten protest camp Students who have been supporting the Unistoten protest camp in BC will be working on a caravan up there soon. Details will follow and some web sites are here.  https://www.facebook.com/unistoten:  http://forestaction.wikidot.com/caravan
3. Oil transportation Bill: Send comments to your legislators about the oil transportation bill in session right now.  Tell Ericksen that 1) you want a public hearing on the bill(s) and want him to support the carbon accountability act.  Get to the bill here

http://app.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1449&year=2015

In addition, this incredible article from Whatcom Watch spells it out!

http://www.whatcomwatch.org/php/WW_open.php?id=1832

4. Further action supporting the Lummi Nation. They have received a letter from the Corps asking for more information.  Still not too late for a LTE expressing your support of preserving the Salish Sea for ancient tribal fishing rights.

Other news from the meeting:

• An FBI agent approached Herb. He refused to speak to them and they left.  The FBI has been contacting members of Rising Tide and those involved in blockades of Megaloads.  Here is advice about what to do if they come to your door. http://www.aclu-mo.org/your-rights/law-enforcement/  http://socialism.com/drupal-6.8/articles/what-do-if-fbi-comes-knocking  Call Larry Hildes if this should happen to you           360-599-4339
• There is a sanctioned refinery strike occurring at Tesoro refinery in Anacortes. The core demands have to do with worker safety.  Here is the link for more information about this action.  Please support if you can. http://us6.campaign-archive1.com/?u=1c567f4b08bf5e2ae6bb531ba&id=6844b6b583&e=959c94c0ef

PRIVATIZATION/EDUCATION  Marcia

SB5676 Concerning the acceptance of additional high school equivalency tests appears to have failed to pass out of committee.  There is much disappointment form all who worked so hard and at the last minute Kris Lytton form the 40^th pulled her support.  Marcia suggests an investigation to see what outside money came into this to cause it to fail.  IT was not about replacing the Pearson but to give another option.  An article appeared in the Nation about this subject http://www.thenation.com/blog/200033/ged-now-harder-take-and-harder-pass  Marcia will work on getting an op-ed into the Bellingham Herald on this subject.

TPP (Dianne) – there was a good turnout yesterday (Thursday 3/5) and tomorrow will be another day of action.  OCCUPY has GOBOs for the light show, banners on the freeway and handbills with which to engage passersby.  Please help.  IT has been posted to the newsletter and announced by various folks at other gatherings.

Sakuma update. (Charles)

More exchanges by letter from C2C and Co-op board.  Here is a  link to the co-op expressing their stand on the boycott. http://www.communityfood.coop/

Adjourned at 4:00

February 27, 2015

Debbie, Bob, Charles, Alyce, Margaret, Ronna

Reports:

Sakuma Protest at the Coop

Steve Sakuma had a meeting at the Coop with the Members Affair Comittee to state his case and ask that the Coop reconsider supporting the berry boycott. He believes we can work together by talking to our government officials and fix the problems with our immigration system, affordable housing and adequate education for farm workers, and the coop should take the lead.

Charles gave a brief history of the Sakuma Brothers operations.

Last minute rally outside on the sidewalk, and some inside the store. Loud chanting was a bit disruptive to discussion.

Farmworkers denied receiving adequate housing or wages. SS denied knowing who the union even was. SS asked the coop to absorb the price increase, and he would raise wages. Use of pesticides was brought up. SS defended the use, we are careful, everyone knows spraying is taking place, but accidents do happen. Neighboring farmers may not be so careful. There is a mandate that we have to use pesticides. Someone suggested reduction of chemicals and passing on savings to workers.

The minutes from the meeting should be on the Member Affairs Committee page of the Coop website.

We can call coop and give feedback, and keep informed of C2C stance and what support they asking for.

BDS Movement

Omar Bargouti is founder of Boycott Divest and Sanction movement: they want justice and equality for Palestinians in a similar way to the boycotts that ended apartheid in South Africa. Several pro-Israel protestors were inside and there was a disruption. Margaret missed the meeting on campus. Margaret shared some personal history on this topic. Israel is not a democracy for the Palestinians living there.  World Issues forum has videos of these presentations on their website.

Code Pink has list of products to boycott, because they are produced in the occupied territories. Our local greenhouse carries some of these. (BTW, they also were part of the contingent fighting the downtown homeless housing.)

This topic is included in our demands. Think globally and act locally.

TPP and Light Brigade Action

Dianne reiterated email she send yesterday afternoon.

Light brigade action March 6th. Please share on facebook. We will start at the vigil with our three banners. Dianne will bring banners. Debbie will have hand outs. Light Brigade at Larsen’s office at 6:30pm. Debbie will bring light and TPP gobos.

Lobbying Our Legislature

Bob was invited to come and talk about citizen lobbying in our state. (tools could be used for county an or city)

leg.wa.gov

Great resource for researching bills in the house and senate. Bob showed us how to navigate this website. You can track the bills progress.

You can find deadlines. (there are several various deadlines… Committee of origin deadline, financial committee deadline and house of origin deadline)

One exception is NTIB (Necessary to Implement the Budget.) A committee chair can use this designation if there is any expenditure at all.

You can read bill language or bill digest (summary).

House Bill Analysis and House Bill Report created by non partisan aids.

Testimony is pretty informative. TV WA

Over 3000 bills get “dropped”. 1000 distributed to committee. Only about 300 become bills.

Bill Moyer Mary Christina Wood

February 20, 2015

Peter, Ronna (notes), Margaret, Dianne, Marcia

Welcomes and Introductions around

Announced

• Human Rights film festival has started with a wonderful film at the Pickford on Global Warming. With 2 days to go and some good films left to see here is the link http://bhrff.webs.com/2015festivalschedule.htm
• World Issues Forum is continuing at Fairhaven College and is posted to our calendar.
• Charles donated a loudspeaker system to OCCUPY. It requires a plug in so can be used for events.
• Since we are now meeting at Terra and no longer will pay Alternative Library for the use of space we will put the donation jar out at our Meetings. Parking is a plus.
• Don’t’ forget to vote for Joy Monjure for Whatcom Conservation District on March 10. IT is too late now to get an absentee ballot but you can vote in person at the district offices at Address: 6975 Hannegan Rd, Lynden, WA 98264  Phone:(360) 354-2035       Hours:  8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Bellingham and Whatcom County are working on a Comp Plan update for 2016. The link for the city is here: http://www.cob.org/services/planning/comprehensive/2016-update.aspx  includes the following opportunity. Join Bellingham’s Mayor and City staff on Tuesday, March 17th, from 6-8 PM at the Squalicum Boathouse (2600 Harbor Loop, Zuanich Point Park) for an Open House to provide input into the discussion about where future growth and development should occur. Following a brief presentation, participants are welcome to visit “topic tables” to talk with staff and provide feedback on the tradeoffs associated with growth options. With the help of the community, an approach can be developed that maintains and enhances the qualities that make Bellingham special.

 PROPOSAL to move our GA to the Terra Organica conference space was approved. 

 MTA: Ronna, Charles, Margaret (OB Demand #1)

The David Cobb barnstorming event was a huge success.  All available chairs were taken, money was made for WAMEND (expenses were covered), Debbie managed the light projection, people were enthusiastic.  The feedback from this group was that David was sincere, honest, authentic, had the historical facts and “connected the dots”.

TPP – Dianne (OB demand #2)

The “stop Fast Track or Bust” tour was a success.  Debbie and Dianne went as far as Olympia while the bus continued to Salem Oregon.  You can see photos from the tour here.  https://www.flickr.com/photos/124197150@N07/sets/72157648567132524

https://www.facebook.com/ExposeTheTPP

She showed 2 videos to the group about the tour.  In Olympia 3 representatives from Congress appeared and are sponsoring a resolution to condemn the TPP.

PRIVATIZATION:  (Marcia) (OB demand #6)

HB 1743 – it did not move out of committee and thus was “dead”.  Kris Lytton voted against which Marcia said she will check into, as she was a co-sponsor.  Charles will check into it as well.

SB 5676 has moved out of committee and onto the Ways and Means.  IF you have not yet contacted your senator, please do so ASAP.  The web site to check and bookmark is: www.restoregedfariness.org

Marcia suggests the following readings for more on the state of public education today

Unfit to Be a Slave: A Guide to Adult Education for Liberation by David Greene – first two chapters are on line as pdf.

We Are All Apocalyptic Now by Robert Jensen and his article on Truth Out on the subject  http://truth-out.org/opinion/item/14322-rationally-speaking-we-are-all-apocalyptic-now

Love Yourself Like Your life Depended On It  Kamil Ravikant

PEACE AND UKRAINE (Dianne)  (OB demand #12, 14)

Reads an article from the Seattle Times http://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/gorbachev-at-berlin-wall-avoid-lsquothe-brink-of-a-new-cold-warrsquo/

From a speech that Gorbachev made at the Berlin wall in November.

New Working Group (Ronna) _______ jobs by _________  (OB demand #10)

She is joining a group being formed via ReSources to talk about how to create jobs in this county.  The hope is to form a citizen’s group to inform public officials about what a good job is, in what sectors these jobs should occur, and how to go about meeting such goals.  There has been one meeting so far and Ronna will report progress.

In addition, just in as I am completing these minutes a word about OCCUPY from Jim Hightower.  http://www.hightowerlowdown.org/node/3889#.VO97kvnF98E

 2/13/2015

Peter, Debbie, Ronna (notes), Charles, Dianne, Marcia

Introductions around.  Ronna and Debbie are congratulated on their letters to the editor.

TPP –

The action will take place next Tuesday the 17^th.  Newsletter has gone out to groups to get them to Mt. Vernon for the start of the tour.  Diane has called the Tea Party and spoke to Carl Uppiano who had not heard of the TPP.  Comments from this group include:

1. This should be a treaty.
2. The vigil tonight will have a new TPP banner (thanks to Debbie).
3. Campaign for America’s future has a petition to sign. They have many articles on TPP.  IT was a bit tricky to find so here is a link that might work http://action.ourfuture.org/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=264
4. Obama has come out and asked for people to vote and support the TPP.
5. Larsen and DelBene remain on the fence. Will probably support.  All DelBene can mention is “apples”.

MTA

David Cobb here on a barnstorming tour Thursday 19^th at 7:00 pm Elks Lodge.

Alyce sent a letter by post to the local Tea Party in hopes to have some folks come listen to David Cobb.  This brought a mention of a “Green Tea Party” and here is something about it.  http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/energy/tea-partys-debbie-dooley-roils-far-right-with-clean-energy-stance/2204416   Wacky world (my comment!)

Continuing to put up posters and handing out fliers.

PRIVATIZATION OF EDUCATION

The research on results of the GED by Pearson is still difficult to obtain and the pass results go from 60% (Pearson) to 10% (local experience).  www.restoregedfairness.org is having trouble getting data since they are relying on Pearson for data, thus flawed.

Data shows that out of 40 college graduates who took this test 4 passed.

Marcia appeared in a Wall Street Journal article about this Pearson GED.

Marcia reported on her trips to Olympia to testify before the senate and the house on the Pearson/Gates GED and the efforts to get another option on the table.  She brought students with her and their testimony was well received.

Marcia assures us there are good alternatives for the GED and refers us to explore the work of Art Ellison in New Hampshire for another model http://www.education.nh.gov/career/adult/

Dianne mentioned an article in Politico about Pearson – follow the link.  http://www.politico.com/story/2015/02/pearson-education-115026_full.html

ACTION NEEDED:

• Write your local representatives (40^th and 42^nd district) in Olympia. The bills are HB 1743 and SB 5676.  Ask them to support these two bills that will provide the mechanism for an optional GED test called HiSet.  The points you can make in your letter are:

1. The Pearson GED is a very confusing test.
2. The Pearson GED is unnecessarily difficult (these folks are wanting a job not necessarily to go on to college)
3. The teaching method is flawed, i.e., a person cannot review their missed questions, tests are timed and only online.

• Marcia will work on messaging and will submit an op ed to the Bellingham Herald.
• Give copies of the test out to legislators.

 

SPACE:  A proposal was made to change our meeting venue to the Terra Organic Grocery Conference room.  Ronna will contact Futureman and let him know that the Alternative Library is uncomfortable for us as folks come in to use the library and have to get around us in the lower room.  We are still very keen on working with Alternative Library to bring educational events to the patrons and community.  We hope to establish a working group for this and be ready to go when the Alternative Library moves to larger quarters in June.

We will meet at TERRA on 2/27/2015 and vote on this proposal at that meeting (one-week grace period)

 

Meeting adjourned at 4:00.

Next meeting 2:00 2/20/2015 at Terra Organic Grocery

 General Assembly February 6, 2015

Introductions: Alyce, Ronna (Facilitator) Spenny, Dianne, Peter, Debbie,(minutes), Marcia, Joshua

Announcements:
Light Brigade at Art Walk Rolling Rebellion against TPP

Internet Working Group:
Met at Terra new conference room signed up for Bluehost with a cheaper deal for 3 years, can cancel at any time, back up options, which we really need,  are the best we could find.
Working group pages.
Spenny helped fix link to facebook.
We started a twitter account.  We are learning. Website will link to it also.
We want to have a Skillshare with email and word procesing with projector.

TPP/Net Neutrality Action (Rolling Rebellion):
Feb 17th “Fair Trade or Bust Bus Tour”
Starts in Mount Vernon at 930. carpool from Bellingham at 830 from Fairhaven park and ride.

Link to event details here:

http://washingtonfairtrade.org/fair-trade-or-bustour-comes-to-washington-in-february/

Debbie made quarter sheet handout.
Dianne wants an copy of newsletter that relates to the TPP action, Debbie will forward to Dianne. She got Chris Johnson to speak in Mt. Vernon. Debbie will re-work orange sign to say No Fast Track.
Brainstorm on someone to speak on GMO.  Debbie in van, Ronna in car, Alyce car. Back in Bham by noon-ish.
There is new anti TPP legislation in WA state.

Rolling Rebellion: Debbie was on conference call, There is no Fast track bill and that is a good thing.
Only 3 chapters of TPP have been leaked by Wiki-leaks.
FT will last 7 years,

Net Neutrality, in good shape on that.not enough legislators to override a Veto, and Obama
Ronna will send link to give feedback to senators.
Quick refresher about what TPP is.

Move To Amend Update:
David Cobb Event is taking our attention, people are hearing about it. Alyce would hand out flyers at the co-op. Getting David on Joe Teehan. Reaching out to Western.
Need to reach other groups. Can we reach tea party? Ronna and Alyce will try. Same night as Whatcom Democrat meeting is unfortunate.

New state legislation to propose getting rid of citizens united, titled Senate Joint Memorial 8011

Meeting Space
Terra has new conference room. Free. Up to four hours. Karate Church is not accessible by bus. Thinking about options. Wonder if the room would be available every week.

Oppression workshop
The volunteers for this have declined to go forward. We have no one else available to do it right now. City ordinance is making this timely. Maybe would be good to push it to June for new larger Alt. Library space. Marcia might have time then and will be in touch with FX. We could recruit from the community. WPJ western, C2C. It could be a simple hour long talk with questions. Or a panel discussion. Panel members could help recruit attendees. How do we reach those that are oppressed? Mission population kicked out at 8am. Not many resources. How do we include farm workers, students, homeless.
We call out, expose and oppose. tie to new ordinance.

Two Treaties
Peter: Point Elliot and TPP are tied together- supreme law of land and takes precedence over legislation. (note: some present thought that TPP is not a treaty, so it does not need 2.3 of senate)  Congress has authority to negotiate trade agreements).
It needs to be made public. Needs to be published word for word.
Ronna sent link out from Clean Energy that will facilitate writing letter to congressional reps senators, Peter Goldmark et al. in support of Lummis opposition to GPT.

Privatization of Education
Marcia had interview with Wall St Journal ran into problems verifying data, because Pearson provides data to state. WSJ has a high standard of verification. Waiting to see what happens. Marcia discussed going to hearing in Olympia to propose a new test. She will get us the HR #. She ran into problems within the school regulations. Now taking bus. Teaching students how to write letters. Online feedback to state reps. option. Alyce works with mentors of kids in Lynden. She will mention it. Bill takes a while after if comes out of committee. Church is behind her work and she is speaking with mandate from larger community. She is really going out on a limb. Peter discussed.has personal experience teaching and doing civil disobedience. Getting name out there can protect you. Can not get fired for your beliefs.

 

 

 

JANUARY 30, 2015  Alternative Library

Ronna (notes), Peter, Marcia, Debbie, Dianne, Alyce, Charles

Introductions were made as there was a person attending for the first time.

NW CORNER COALITION REPORT:  A meeting was held by this group on 1/29.  Reported as a “good meeting”.  TPP, Net Neutrality, NSA and the DODD-Frank amendment were discussed.  Larsen still on the fence over TPP and believes this group does not care about trade.  Talk is about the next meeting with a larger group of members of all groups involved.  (Occupy, WPJC, VFP, C2C, Labor)  Still have not gotten a meeting with DelBene and Barb said she will work on that.

MTA REPORT:  Meeting of this group next Wednesday 2/11.  David Cobb will visit Bellingham on Feb 19^th and present at the Elks Lodge at 7:00 pm.  He has asked for a meeting with the MTA steering committee.

OIL-BY-RAIL hearing report:  Shell sent about 20 workers to the hearing dressed in uniforms and taking the front row seats.  None of them spoke.  About 200 people attended.  The testimony was almost all against the oil trains.  Groups like Physicians for Social responsibility, several other organizations spoke about the environment, farmland, treaty rights, and the river.  All asked for an EIS to be conducted or at least asking the Governor to place a moratorium for now.  The local Chamber spoke for the project.  Charles made a point that our local county government serves as a trustee for the sovereign public and has a fiduciary responsibility to preserve the resource and not risk its degradation in order to preserve it for future generations.

 

HUMAN RIGHTS FESTIVAL.  We agreed to table at the film(s) Don’t Look Down on Me,  The Throwaways. In addition, Homeless in Bellingham. BTC films on February 23rd at 11 am and 12:20 pm.  This seemed like a film suited for our presence since we are thinking about a workshop on Oppression soon.  Also considering the situation with a proposed expansion of ordinance governing where the homeless may be in downtown Bellingham  Debbie will contact.

TPP ACTION WEEK:  Feb 17^th is the day and there will be a carpool down to Mt. Vernon to protest in front of DelBene’s Mt. Vernon office.  We will meet at the Fairhaven Carpool lot at 8:30 am and go down by cars.  Ronna will bring the TPP banners and signs. Anybody else who has TPP signs please bring them.  New article on Truthout http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/28932-what-the-corporate-media-isn-t-telling-you-about-the-tpp and

http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/28905-beware-of-false-rationales-for-supporting-trade-deals

JOY MONJURE running for conservation district.  Many of us are working to help in this election.  It’s a whacky process and you have to request an absentee ballot or vote in person at eh conservation office.  Dianne will be doorbelling in her local districts.  You can request a ballot at this address  http://survey.whatcomcd.org/limesurvey/index.php?sid=62682&lang=en

Or go to Cascadia Weekly for more information. http://www.cascadiaweekly.com/currents/conservation_district_helps_farmers_thrive

COB ORDINANCE EXPANSION OF THE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AREA.

This ordinance was heard in committee where no public testimony is allowed.  However 4 OCCUPY members spoke at the evening council meeting to deplore this latest effort.  While the Mayor was heard to say “we have done so much” (for the homeless) though we noted that benches have been removed from the downtown area and there is no longer a place to charge cell phones.  Charles indicated he would talk to the mayor about these issues. All present agreed that this was a deplorable action on the part of the city and that it seemed like it would be a “pipeline to the jail” as the homeless may not know about an expansion of these borders and might not remember even if warned.  Protecting some citizens from other citizens seemed like the wrong way to go and the homeless need many services not now provided.  Further excluding them is not an answer.

NEWSLETTER:  Debbie will send a newsletter out soon with the following actions.  TPP, Joy Monjure election, MTA – Barnstorming and the Human Rights Film Festival.

GRATIS CONSULTING FOR ACTIVISTS:  Ronna presented a topic that came to her via Barb.  It is a web site that offers Internet services/help/resources for activists.  Debbie has looked at the site and says this site poses no risk.  Barb was asked to look into it further and she agreed to do that.

PRIVATIZATION;  Marcia continues to expose the privatization of education via networking groups here locally and in Seattle.  The current effort is to obtain data about pass rates for the new GED (Pearson) which they are finding hard to get.  Pearson’s data is either secretive (private) or suspect and can’t get data from the state.  The state is claiming a 60-70% success rate while other data indicate it is more like 10%.  At BTC 4/100 passed this version of the GED.  The difficulties in the test relate to pedagogy, design and difficulty level. WCC claims to be having “more success and states they graduated 4 last year.

Marcia has been interviewed by the Wall Street Journal and a WSJ reporter will come to her classroom soon.  http://restoregedfairness.org/ is a web site with current information.  State goal will be to restore the HISET test for GED.  Kris Lytton is on board for this and an ally of the group working towards this goal.  Marcia suggests the following article. http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/28272-barbarians-at-the-gates-authoritarianism-and-the-assault-on-public-education

A member stated that privatization was at the root of all other issues while others shared the thought that it was capitalism and the desire of the capitalists to own and run everything.

Considering OCCUPY mission of “calling out, exposing and opposing” we thanked Marcia for her work thus far and look forward to hearing when it’s time to “oppose”.

Meeting adjourned at 4:00

MINUTES OCCUPY GA – JANUARY 23, 2015

Ronna (notes), Alyce, Debbie, Dianne, Charles, Juan, Wendy, Cullen (Futureman), Margaret, Terry.

(2 new people attended and were given the “orientation packet”, welcomed by all and introduced to all)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. 1/26/2015 COB where there will be open session and the first hearing of an expanded ordinance (see below) and http://www.cob.org/sirepub/mtgviewer.aspx?meetid=306&doctype=AGENDA
2. 1/28/2015 WORLD ISSUES FORUM –AT WWU. Wayne Au from UW-Bothell will address “Mapping Corporate Education Reform in the Neoliberal State.”
3. 1/29/2015 Our NW Corner Coalition will meet with Larsen meeting on the 29^th and talk briefly about the TPP and one other subject to be determined. Chris Johnson will attend to speak to the impact of “free” trade on workers.
4. 1/29/2015 10:00 am.  Shell Oil hearing re: Oil-by-Rail in MT. Vernon.  Car Pools are possible.  Ronna will drive.  360-305-2936

• The hearing process begins at 9 a.m.
• Although public testimony begins at 11 a.m., you are advised to arrive no later than 10 a.m. to sign up for oral testimony.  First come, first served.
• Hand in written comments at the public hearing or send them beforehand to Skagit County Planning & Development, arriving in-house no later than 4:30 p.m., Tues. Jan. 27.
• No emails accepted.  The online comment form and snail mail address are found at How to Comment on Permit Applications and Appeals.  Scroll down. The permit number is PL13-0468.  The title is Shoreline Substantial Development Permit/Variance.

5. Jan 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 6:30 Clean Energy Series at Re:Sources in the upstairs room.  Presented by Sandy Lawrence.  It is on the OB calendar with more information.  For the above 2 events go here. http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?ca=88bb75f6-d6fc-471f-9617-ee25832ae2b1&c=15389300-dd9d-11e3-9987-d4ae529cde13&ch=15df8160-dd9d-11e3-9a10-d4ae529cde13
6. 2/2/2015 – Clean Energy Activist meeting 6:30 Upstairs at ReSources
7. 2/5/2015 Movie “Disruption” at 6pm at VU-552 in WWU Viking Union

TPP – DAY OF ACTION FEBRUARY 17 (Dianne) Jillian at (Fair Trade Washington) and Robin Everett (Sierra Club Seattle) will work with Skagit workers .  A bus will travel from Vancouver, BC to Portland with actions along the way.  Will skip Bellingham (no labor interest) and go directly to Skagit.  OB may be asked to assist with publicity so stay tuned for that.  Dianne will keep us up to date.  We will plan to go to rally in Skagit with banners and signs.

Governor Inslee has voiced opposition to the TPP.

MOVE TO AMEND:  report on day of action January 21, 2015.  Ronna posted photos to the OB web site on our day of action.  We had enough people to hold all banners and received many positive honks and waves with very few middle fingers.  Alyce reported that there were actions around the country and that David Cobb from MTA national will be here on February 19 as part of their barnstorming tour to educate folks about the project to overturn Citizen’s United ruling.

WORKSHOP AT ALTERNATIVE LIBRARY  Those present agreed that we would like to put on a workshop at the Lat. Library on the subject of OPPRESSION.  Ronna agreed to form a working group with members: Juan, Wendy, Debbie. (This note taker didn’t get all volunteers – please let me know if you want to work on this event.)  People mentioned who could speak to OPPRESSION in our town include Irene Morgan (restorative Justice), Janet Marino (Peace and Justice), Domestic Violence Center, Whatcom Dream, Veterans, Resource Center.

• A side issue but relevant to OPPRESSION is the COB (City of Bellingham) plan to introduce an new version of ordinance 20707 to expand the pedestrian safety areas and times to exclude people lying or sitting on sidewalks.  Read the document below and attend the COB hearing on Tuesday January 26 to speak for the homeless.  http://www.cob.org/sirepub/mtgviewer.aspx?meetid=306&doctype=AGENDA

CHERRY POINT – Ronna received an email form Jon Shaunessy that expressed interest from Peter Holcomb about “occupying Cherry Point”.  This email was forwarded to our list serve for comments with a goal of transparency.  Ronna got very little input via email prior to meeting but Terry  attended GA to express his viewpoints.  Ronna had already spoken by phone to Shaunessy that OB-GA could do nothing in the way of action at Cherry Point without explicit consent and leadership from the Lummi Nation. The following comments were made at this meeting;

• Agreement as to what Ronna said on phone. We would take no action without express leadership of Lummi Nation in concert with BUF.  We will wait for this and stay tuned.
• If we need to risk arrest in order to have coverage by Bellingham Herald consensus was that we do not need the Herald. There are many other ways to get news out.
• This would be a good opportunity to get all climate organizations together.

·         Suggest we read An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States (ReVisioning American History)  by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz

• Other groups might include Deep Green Resistance, 350.org, Rising Tide, Student Divestment group.
• Ronna will attend Coal Activist meeting on Feb 2 6:30 pm at Re Sources for further discussion

EDUCATION PRIVATIZATION – FORUM AT WWU.  PROTEST?  Not known if there is anything planned.  Marcia was not at meeting today and she will inform us if there is action.  To reiterate about the forum at WWU on 1/28/2015

HUMAN RIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL:  This will start Feb 19^th.  Ronna will work to post to OB calendar.  The schedule is  here: http://bhrff.webs.com/2015festivalschedule.htm  OB is asked to table at any event we feel pertains to our current goals and us.  Debbie asked that we look over the list of films and let her know what appeals and if you would be willing to volunteer to table at one of these events.

ALTERNATIVE LIBRARY;

The library is moving to another larger spot on High Street (The prior martial arts church).  They will be constructing inside the building to accommodate needs and the move is planned for End of June.  They will need help to move the books.  They also Need MONEY and any offering will be accepted.  They do plan to do fundraising in near future.  Stay tuned for developments.