In the Community from ACEH Jan 31

"How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."

… Anne Frank, 1929-1945

 

Herb and Ann

This information is provided by the Alliance for Cultural and Ethnic Harmony (ACEH).  If you do not wish to receive it in the future, please contact hpweller@comcast.net or editann@aol.com.  Events List is also posted on the ACEH website, www.harmonyalliance.org.

Fri, Feb 2, 5:30 to 8 pm:  Opening night for "Who Am I? African American Images," exhibit of paintings, sculpture, quilts, other original art and pieces from local collectors and artists from elsewhere in Michigan and the Midwest. Includes performances of music, dance, and readings; arranged by C.J. Grier. At Holland Area Arts Council, 150 East 8^th St., Holland.

 

Fri, Feb. 2, 6 to 8 pm: Film and discussion: Spike Lee's "When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Three Acts."  Bring a traditional African American dish to pass.  (616) 355-0071. At Core City, 21 West 16th St., Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 3, and Sun, Feb 4, 2 pm; Mon, Feb 5 and Wed, Feb 7 at 7 pm:  Film: "The Reckoning: Remembering the Dutch Resistance," documentary award-winner at New York festivals. Depicts what life was like for Jews in the Netherlands during the Holocaust and how "ordinary" Dutch citizens resisted the Nazis and cared for fellow citizens during World War II. $7 general admission. (616 530-SHOW;www.dutchresistance.net.  At Celebration Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Dr, NE, Grand Rapids.

 

Mon, Feb 5, 7 pm:  Community open house for Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON), the free immigration legal service of the national United Methodist Church. 396-5205. At First United Methodist Church lounge, 57 West 10^th St. (use 9^th St. entrance), Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 7, 4 to 5 pm: Hope College Multicultural Enrichment Series: "Being a 'Subtle' Change Agent—Reflections on Rosa Parks's decision to boldly impact change, and our responsibility today," by educator Donna Poag. At Maas Center, Columbia and 11^th St., Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 7, 5 pm: Black History Food Festival. $5 for general public.  At Phelps and Cook dining halls, Hope College, 10^th St. between College and Columbia, Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 7, 7 pm: Poet, author, and activist Nikki Giovanni: "Reflections on Race."  Part of  Grand Rapids Community College Diversity Lecture Series XII. Limited seating. (616) 234-3390; www.grcc.edu At GRCC Applied Technology Center banquet rooms, corner of Fountain St. and Ransom Ave., Grand Rapids.

 

Thurs, Feb 8, 6 to 9 pm: Asian New Year Festival, including dragon dance, samples of food from Asian countries, crafts, storytelling, entertainment. Free and open to the public.  Part of Grand Valley State University's 2007 Asian Pacific American Heritage Celebration. Contact Connie Dang, Office of Multicultural Affairs, dangc@gvus.edu or (616) 331-2177. At GVSU Allendale campus, Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room, Allendale.

 

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES

If you are a young student (or know someone who is):

WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR KIDS: Registration is open from Feb. 1 to Feb. 23 for "Writing, It's Elementary" on Sat, March 17. 1st through 5^th graders will take part in workshops at Hope College with storytellers, authors, poets, illustrators, journalists, screenwriters, and songwriters, including Jefferson Focus School principal Rick Muniz, who often mixes music with learning. Children of color are especially encouraged to sign up.  Cost $20, including lunch, snack, t-shirt, and writing supplies. Full and partial scholarships available for students with financial need (contact Shandra Martinez at 494-5701 or smartinez@grpress.com). Registration required; send check  to Life Services System at 11172 Adams St., Holland 49423; for info call Nancy Hanchett at (616) 396-7566. Sponsored by many local groups. Workshops will be held at the Hope College Maas Center, Columbia and 11^th St., Holland, Saturday, March 17, 9 am to 2 pm.

 

If you are a teenager or an adult:

CITY OF HOLLAND'S NEIGHBORHOOD LEADERSHIP ACADEMY 2007: Registration open now for 8 free sessions starting Thurs, March 1, ending with graduation Thurs, April 26.  Interactive curriculum on leadership skills, taught by diverse local people. Classes are 6 to 8:30 pm, includes dinner and resource materials. Network with area neighbors and local professionals; learn how to make a difference in your community!  Contact Janie Briones, program coordinator, Ourstreet/Neighborhood Liaison Program, City of Holland; (616) 355-3127; j.briones@cityofholland.com.