In the Community from ACEH February 24, 2014

THE ALLIANCE FOR CULTURAL AND ETHNIC HARMONY (ACEH)

 

Mon, Feb 24, 7 pm: Mortar Board Last Lecture series: "As I Was Saying..." by Dr. Don Luidens, professor of sociology at Hope College.  First 150 people to attend will receive their choice of one of four books: "Another Country," by James Baldwin; "Native Son," by Richard Wright; "Down These Mean Streets," by Piri Thomas; or "Invisible Man," by Ralph Ellison. Open to the public.  Reception follows. At Maas Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 11th St, Holland.

 

Mon, Feb 24, 7:30 pm: Holland is Ready open meeting; learn more about the organization and ways to get involved in its work.  At New Holland Brewery mezzanine, 8th St at College Ave, Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 26, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm: Soul Food Festival.  Open to the public; $6 for community members.  At Hope College Phelps and Cook Dining Halls, 10th St, Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 26, 7 pm: Documentary film, "One Day After Peace." Israeli mother who lost a son to a Palestinian sniper travels to South Africa to learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and its potential application to the Israel/Palestine peace process.  86 minutes; followed by discussion on South Africa in the 21st century, moderated by Dr. Annie Dandavati and featuring Dr. John Knapp, Dr. Joel Toppen, and students who recently studied in South Africa.  At Martha Miller Center, Fried-Hemenway Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 10^th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Feb 27, 7 pm: Black History Celebration: "The Truth about Hip-Hop and Black Culture."  Keynote by Dr. Andre Perry, poetic readings, Hope College hip-hop dancers. Sponsored by Hope College Office of Multicultural Education, with Black Student Union. ome@hope.edu or 395-7867. At Maas Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 11^th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Feb 27, 8 pm (doors open 7 pm): Benefit for Songs against Slavery, featuring Andrew Ripp and Judah & the Lion; testimony from a survivor of human trafficking.  $20 general public.  Songs against Slavery, a Hope student-created organization, will donate proceeds to The Hope Project, a safe house in Grand Rapids for victims of trafficking. At Dimnent Chapel, College Ave at 12^th St, Holland.

 

Tues, Mar 4, 4 pm: "Mandela's Children: Shaping a University," Presidential Colloquium's keynote address by Prof. H. Russel Botman, rector and vice-chancellor of Stellenbosch University, South Africa: discussing "how the university has been working to create a more inclusive student body and educational culture and how the lessons learned could be applied to other institutions of higher learning."  At Dimnent Chapel, College Ave at 12^th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Mar 6, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm: Asian Food Festival.  Open to the public.  $6 community members.  At Hope College Phelps and Cook Dining Halls, 10^th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Mar 6, 7 pm: Asian Heritage Celebration. Sponsored by Office of Multicultural Education with Hope's Asian Perspective Association (HAPA).  ome@hope.edu or 395-7867.  At Martha Miller Center, Columbia Ave at 10^th St, Holland.

 

Sat, Mar 8, 10:30 am-12:30 pm: Estate planning for the LGBT community. Two attorneys speak on how to protect/provide for an LGBT partner/spouse in the state of Michigan upon one partner's incapacity or death. Event sponsored by here IRT, an employee group of Herman Miller, Inc.  Registration required.  Contact Peggy at peggy_michmershuizen@hermanmiller.com or (616) 654-3144. At Holland Area Arts Council, 150 East 8^th St, Holland.

 

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES

Neighborhood Leadership Academy 2014:  Seven-week, free, interactive program "to educate, enhance, and empower" Holland city residents and equip them with skills to become more active in their neighborhoods and to make a difference in the community.  Curriculum includes leadership, communication skills, building inclusive neighborhoods, more.  Classes meet Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm; dinner (free) at 6 pm; first class is Thurs, March 6, in Holland City Hall, 270 S. River Ave.  Contact Sue Harder, program coordinator, at (616) 355-3139 or s.harder@cityofholland.com

 

Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is seeking new member applications from 9^th and 10^th grade students who want "to give back and grow as a leader."  10 openings available. Application deadline is April 1.  Go to http://cfhz.org and scroll to bottom of page. For more information, email ekidd@cfhz.org

 

2014 Summit on Race and Inclusion: Dismantling Unintentional Bias:  Registration is open for this day-long event May 21 at Hope College, presented by Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance.  $45 includes lunch, refreshments.  To register, go to www.ethnicdiversity.org and click on Eventbrite. There will be no-site registration the day of the event.

 

JOB OPENINGS

TODAY, MON, FEB 24, 11 am to 6 pm--Job Fair for John Ball Zoo, Grand Rapids.  Summer or seasonal positions, including admissions, concessions, animal care, maintenance.  Applicants must be at least 16 years old for concession and retail jobs, 18 and over for all other positions.  Bring resume to the Job Fair. For more information, go to www.jbzoo.org  At 1300 West Fulton St, Grand Rapids (2^nd floor of Zoo administration building, just outside the Zoo gate).

 

MOKA openings in Ottawa County area: Residential Support Staff, Community Support Staff, Mentors.  Full time, part time, and on-call openings; various shifts.  MOKA supports individuals with developmental and other disabilities and their families in six West Michigan counties.  Go to www.moka.org, select the Careers tab, and apply online.

 

Holland Public Schools, Substitute Food Service Employees and Bus Drivers:  Part-time, M-F.  Apply online at www.hollandpublicschools.org and click on HR-Employment.  Job ID numbers are #589 (food service) and #591 (bus drivers).

 

City of Holland, Department of Public Safety, Police Division: Police Officer:   Pay range $48,800 - $62,400 annually. Applicants must be MCOLES Certifiable, with an associate's degree (bachelor's degree preferred).  Must pass a physical and psychological exam and a thorough background investigation.  Resume to City of Holland, Police Division, attn.: Capt. Dykstra, 89 West 8^th St, Holland 49423. Deadline is Fri, Feb 28.

 

 

 

 

 

In the Community from ACEH February 17, 2014

 

Mon, Feb 17, 6 pm: Building Cultural Competence.  Presented by Michigan Department of Civil Rights to "enhance understanding of African American, American Indian, Arab American, Asian American, and Latino Americans," including cultural protocols, cross-cultural communication, dispelling myths and stereotypes, more. Sponsored by Holland Human Relations Commission.  Free.  Reserve at (616) 355-1328 or hrc@cityofholland.com  At Herrick District Library, 300 S. River, Holland. 

 

Tues, Feb 18, 10 am and 7 pm:  Autism Society of the West Shore (ASWS) Parent Support Group.  Two opportunities for parents, care providers, and family members of children with autism to find out about available support services and to share what their needs are.  No child care.  Spanish interpreter available.  Contact jenniferr.aswa@gmail.com  or www.aswa.org   At Herrick District Library, 300 S. River, Holland.

 

Tues, Feb 18, 3 pm:  "Ready for Reform": Lakeshore Roundtable on Immigration Reform.  Faith, business, education, police, local civic leaders on "how the broken immigration system is impacting our community and what we might do to strengthen a unified voice calling for reform."  Roundtable dialogue.  All are welcome.  Contact katekooyman@gmail.com  At City on a Hill Ministry Center, 100 Pine St, Zeeland (former Zeeland Hospital).

 

Tues, Feb 18, 4 pm: Pause Café.  French conversation group; open to all levels of the language.  guernsey@hope.edu  or 395-7933.  At Lemonjello's Coffee, 9^th St at College Ave, Holland.

 

Fri, Feb 21, 7 pm (support group), 8 pm (film): PFLAG meeting; 26-minute documentary "All God's Children," about the Black Church's "embracement of African American lesbians and gay men as dedicated members of its spiritual family"; includes religious, intellectual, and political leaders, family members, and activists on the role of the church "and the importance of a commitment to equal rights and social justice for all."  At Grace Episcopal Church, 555 Michigan Ave, Holland.

 

Fri, Feb 21, 7 to 10 pm, and Sat, Feb 22, 9:30 am to 10:15 pm:  The 2014 Justice Conference Holland "to promote dialogue on human trafficking, slavery, poverty, HIV/AIDS, and human rights" and to "connect West Michigan residents around a shared concern for the vulnerable and oppressed."  Holland event is a live simulcast of the conference in Los Angeles. Cost is $34; register at www.thejusticeconferenceholland.com  At Engedi Church, 710 Chicago Dr, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, noon to 4 pm: Black History Month  event: Native rhythms and dance "Mulato Vibes": Art, dance, drumming project "to develop and showcase diverse forms of creativity in West Michigan."  Contact Ruth Coleman at ruthcoleman1221@gmail.com or Lori Shaw at d082165@yahoo.com  At The Center of African American Art and History, 21 West 16^th St, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8 pm: International Food Fair. Celebration of cuisines and cultures of nations represented by Hope College community. Foods prepared by students; educational displays.  Admission is $5 for 5 tickets; additional tickets 50 cents; most dishes cost 1 or 2 tickets.  At Maas Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 11th St, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8:30 pm: Black History Month event: "Saturday Night Live," with open mic, gospel rappers, spoken word, comedy, r&b, and other musical performances.  Free admission.  Soul food dinner available for $12, adults; $6, ages 18 and under.  Contact wayne465@yahoo.com

At Imagine Fellowship, 167 West 20th St,  Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 26, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm: Soul Food Festival.  Open to the public; $6 for community members.  At Hope College Phelps and Cook Dining Halls, 10th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Feb 27, 7 pm: Black History Celebration.  Sponsored by Hope College Office of Multicultural Education, with Black Student Union.  At Maas Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 11^th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Feb 27, 8 pm (doors open 7 pm): Benefit for Songs against Slavery, featuring Andrew Ripp and Judah & the Lion, with testimony from a survivor of human trafficking.  $20 general public.  Songs against Slavery, a Hope student-created organization, will donate the proceeds to The Hope Project, a safe house in Grand Rapids for victims of trafficking. At Dimnent Memorial Chapel, College Ave at 12^th St, Holland.

 

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES

Able Bodies, Read and Learn:  Five capable West Michigan persons with disabilities—visible and/or hidden--have created a great new blog to express their thoughts and experiences; participants include Lucia Rios and Roel Garcia.  Go to http://ablebodies.typepad.com/ or find them on Facebook at Able Bodies.  Email ablebody4@gmail.com

 

Neighborhood Leadership Academy 2014:  Seven-week, free, interactive program "to educate, enhance, and empower" Holland city residents and equip them with skills to become more active in their neighborhoods and to make a difference in the community.  Curriculum includes leadership, communication skills, building inclusive neighborhoods, more.  Classes meet Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm; dinner (free) at 6 pm; first class is Thurs, March 6, in Holland City Hall, 270 S. River Ave.  Contact Sue Harder, program coordinator, at (616) 355-3139 or s.harder@cityofholland.com

 

Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance Spanish classes:  10-week courses: Beginner's course Tues, Feb 25-May 6, from 6 to 8 pm; Intermediate course Mon, Feb 24-May 5, from 6 to 8 pm.  $100 per 10-week course; financial hardship scholarships available.  Register at (616) 846-9074 or www.ethnicdiversity.org/getinvolved.  At Diversity Alliance offices, 665 136^th Ave, Holland.

 

Minority Business and Advocate Award Nominations:   The West Coast Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for 2014 Minority Business of the Year and Outstanding Advocate for Minority-Owned Businesses.  Deadline for nominations is Feb 21.   Awards made April 23 at annual luncheon.  Contact Jim Schoettle at (616) 928-9105.

 

2014 Summit on Race and Inclusion: Dismantling Unintentional Bias:  Registration is open for this day-long event May 21 at Hope College, presented by Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance.  $45 includes lunch, refreshments.  To register, go to www.ethnicdiversity.org and click on Eventbrite. There will be no-site registration the day of the event.

 

JOB OPENINGS

MOKA openings in Ottawa County area: Residential Support Staff, Community Support Staff, Mentors.  Full time, part time, and on-call openings; various shifts.  MOKA supports individuals with developmental and other disabilities and their families in six West Michigan counties.  Go to www.moka.org, select the Careers tab, and apply online.

 

Holland Public Schools, Substitute Food Service Employees and Bus Drivers:  Part-time, M-F.  Apply online at www.hollandpublicschools.org and click on HR-Employment.  Job ID numbers are #589 (food service) and #591 (bus drivers).

 

Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, Receptionist (Job Share):  20 hours/week; $13.61 per hour.  Minimum of high school education; experience in secretarial or clerical work. Answer phones, assist building guests, provide support for events, word processing and data entry.  Flexibility in schedule is needed.  For information and to apply, go to www.oaisd.org  Deadline is Fri, Feb 21.

 

City of Holland, Department of Public Safety, Police Division: Police Desk Assistant.  Full-time, 11 pm to 7 am Sunday-Thursday.  Salary range $34,923 - $41,954; cafeteria-style benefit and pension package.  Assist at front desk, relay information, assist officers with LEIN requests, transcribe reports, assist with processing of prisoners.  One to two years' experience in administrative support and/or law enforcement.  Cover letter and resume to City of Holland, 270 S. River Ave, Holland 49423 or email hr@cityofholland.com  Deadline is Fri, Feb 21.

 

City of Holland, Tree Trimmer:   Full-time, $17.45-$20.95/hour with fringe benefit package. Plants, trims, removes trees and shrubs; two or more years' experience trimming trees at high altitude within a bucket truck; knowledge of industrial safety standards; ability to lead a crew.  Cover letter and resume to City of Holland, Human Resources Dept/Tree Trimmer 1, City Hall, 270 S. River Ave, Holland 49423; or by email to hr@cityofholland.com.  Deadline is Fri, Feb 21.

 

City of Holland, Department of Public Safety, Police Division: Police Officer:   Pay range $48,800 - $62,400 annually. Applicants must be MCOLES Certifiable, with an associate's degree (bachelor's degree preferred).  Must pass a physical and psychological exam and a thorough background investigation.  Resume to City of Holland, Police Division, attn.: Capt. Dykstra, 89 West 8^th St, Holland 49423. Deadline is Fri, Feb 28.

 

 

In the Community from ACEH Feb 10, 2014

IN THE COMMUNITY FROM THE ALLIANCE FOR CULTURAL AND ETHNIC HARMONY (ACEH)

February 10, 2014

 

 

Mon, Feb 10, 6:30 pm: Hate Crime 101.  Training by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights to assist crime victim service providers and law enforcement "to better understand how to define and respond to bias incidents."  Sponsored by the City of Holland Human Relations Commission.  Reservations at (616) 355-1328 or email hrc@cityofholland.com  At Herrick District Library auditorium, 300 S. River, Holland.

 

Tues, Feb 11, 6 pm to 7:30 pm:  "Justice for Some or Justice for All" Community Forum: Racial Profiling.  Open forum on ways to "speak up and speak out" against racial profiling and injustice in our community."  At Imagine Fellowship, 167 West 20th, Holland.  

 

Wed, Feb 12, 7 pm: GRCC Diversity Lecture Series: "Youth Revolt: The Future of the Middle East," by author Reza Aslan, on Islam, complexities of the new Middle East, the young generation of Muslims "clamoring for their rights and freedoms." Free; ASL interpreted.  (616) 234-3390.  At Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St, Grand Rapids.

 

Fri, Feb 14, noon:  West Michigan RISES! To raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence, in conjunction with international One Billion Rising for Justice campaign.  All are invited to gather and dance in unison in support.  Sponsors include Center for Women in Transition, GVSU Women's Center.  See facebook.com/WestMIRISES or contact Lesley Coghill, CWIT, at (616) 494-1741 or Lesleyc@cwitmi.org  At GVSU, 1110 Kirkhof Center Lobby, 1 Campus Drive, Allendale.

 

Sat, Feb 15, noon to 4 pm: Black History Month: "Celebrating Our Youth," with CJ Kingdom Grier teaching musical instruments as related to African history and a performance by Core City Youth Choir.  Free; snacks.  At the Center of African American Art and History, 21 West 16^th St, Holland.

 

Mon, Feb 17, 6 pm: Building Cultural Competence.  Presented by Michigan Department of Civil Rights to "enhance understanding of African American, American Indian, Arab American, Asian American, and Latino Americans," including cultural protocols, cross-cultural communication, dispelling myths and stereotypes, more. Sponsored by City of Holland Human Relations Commission.  Free.  Reservations at (616) 355-1328 or email hrc@cityofholland.com  At Herrick District Library auditorium, 300 S. River, Holland. 

 

Tues, Feb 18, 3 pm:  "Ready for Reform": Lakeshore Roundtable on Immigration Reform.  Panel of faith, business, education, police, local civic leaders on "how the broken immigration system is impacting our community and what we might do to strengthen a unified voice calling for reform."  Roundtable dialogue.  All are welcome.  Contact katekooyman@gmail.com  At City on a Hill Ministry Center, 100 Pine St, Zeeland (former Zeeland Hospital).

 

Fri, Feb 21, 8 am to 3 pm: Forum 2014: The Power of Economic Opportunity, with Dr. Maggie Anderson, author of "Our Black Year," and businessman Bing Goei; breakouts on Courageous Conversations, Best Practices, Unintentional Bias, Economic Empowerment in the Latino Community, others.  Sponsored by Partners for a Racism-Free Community.  $55 includes lunch. Pre-register at www.prfc-gr.org or Eventbrite.com. At Eberhard Center, GVSU,  301 Fulton St West, Grand Rapids.

 

Fri, Feb 21, 7 pm (support group), 8 pm (film): PFLAG meeting, including 26-minute documentary "All God's Children," about the Black Church's "embracement of African American lesbians and gay men as dedicated members of its spiritual family"; includes religious, intellectual, and political leaders, family members, and activists on the role of the church "and the importance of a commitment to equal rights and social justice for all."  At Grace Episcopal Church, 555 Michigan Ave, Holland.

 

Fri, Feb 21, 7 to 10 pm, and Sat, Feb 22, 9:30 am to 10:15 pm:  The 2014 Justice Conference Holland "to promote dialogue on human trafficking, slavery, poverty, HIV/AIDS, and human rights" and to "connect West Michigan residents around a shared concern for the vulnerable and oppressed."  Holland event is a live simulcast of the conference in Los Angeles with Dr. Bernice King, Rich Stearns, Eugene Cho, Rev. Gabriel Salguero, Jim Wallis, musical groups and artists. Cost is $34; register at www.thejusticeconferenceholland.com  At Engedi Church, 710 Chicago Dr, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8:30 pm: Black History Month event: "Saturday Night Live," with open mic, gospel rappers, spoken word, comedy, r&b, and other musical performances.  Soul food dinner.  Tickets $12 adults; $6 ages 18 and under.  Tickets at the door or contact wayne465@yahoo.com

At Imagine Fellowship, 167 West 20^th, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8 pm: International Food Fair.  Dishes prepared by Hope College international students.  Admission is $5 for 5 tickets; additional tickets 50 cents; most dishes cost 1 or 2 tickets.  At Maas Center, Columbia Ave at 11th St, Holland.

 

Wed, Feb 26, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm: Soul Food Festival.  Open to the public; $6 for community members.  At Hope College Phelps and Cook Dining Halls, 10th St, Holland.

 

Thurs, Feb 27, 7 pm: Black History Celebration.  Sponsored by Hope College Office of Multicultural Education, with Black Student Union.  At Maas Auditorium, Columbia Ave at 11^th St, Holland.

 

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES

 

Able Bodies, Read and Learn:  Five capable persons with disabilities—visible and/or hidden--have created a great new blog to express their thoughts and experiences; participants include Lucia Rios and Roel Garcia.  Go to http://ablebodies.typepad.com/ or find them on Facebook at Able Bodies.  Email ablebody4@gmail.com

 

Neighborhood Leadership Academy 2014:  Seven-week, free, interactive program "to educate, enhance, and empower" Holland city residents and equip them with skills and knowledge to become more active in their neighborhoods and to make a difference in the community.  Curriculum includes leadership characteristics and styles, communication skills, building inclusive neighborhoods, more.  Classes meet Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, preceded by dinner (free) at 6 pm; first class is Thurs, March 6, in Holland City Hall.  For information, contact Sue Harder, program coordinator,  (616) 355-3139 or s.harder@cityofholland.com

 

Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance Spanish classes:  10-week courses: Beginner's course meets Tuesdays, Feb 25-May 6, from 6 to 8 pm; Intermediate course meets Mondays Feb 24-May 5, from 6 to 8 pm.  $100 per 10-week course; financial hardship scholarships available.  Register by phone at (616) 846-9074 or online at www.ethnicdiversity.org/getinvolved.  At Diversity Alliance offices, 665 136^th Ave, Holland.

 

Minority Business and Advocate Award Nominations:   The West Coast Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for 2014 Minority Business of the Year and Outstanding Advocate for Minority-Owned Businesses.  Deadline for nominations is Thurs, Feb 21.   Awards will be made April 23 at the annual luncheon.  For information, contact Jim Schoettle at (616) 928-9105.

 

JOB OPENINGS

 

MOKA openings in Ottawa County area: Residential Support Staff, Community Support Staff, Mentors.  Full time, part time, and on-call openings; various shifts.  MOKA supports individuals with developmental and other disabilities and their families in six West Michigan counties.  Go to www.moka.org, select the Careers tab, and apply online.

 

Holland Public Schools, Building Secretary:  Part-time (7:45 am-12:15 pm) Mon-Fri during school year. Bilingual (Spanish) written and oral skills preferred but not required.  For job duties and qualifications, go to www.hollandpublicschools.org, Job ID 981.  Apply online by Fri, Feb 14.

 

Michigan United, Northern Borders Coordinator:  Part-time contract position, funded for one year.  Manage coalition of organizing and legal partners in northern border states "to address...civil rights issues affecting immigrants and New Americans there: racial profiling, Border Patrol enforcements, religious discrimination and persecution, detentions of US citizens and green card holders, inhumane treatment of detainees."  Must have car, cell phone, computer; know modern office software; comfortable working with culturally, religiously, economically diverse partners and staff.  Proficiency with Spanish or Arabic helpful.  Prior community or political organizing experience.  www.miunited.org for more information. Send resume, cover letter to ryan@miunited.org with subject line: Northern Borders Organizer.  Deadline is Mon, Feb 17.

 

Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, Receptionist (Job Share):  20 hours/week; $13.61 per hour.  Minimum of high school education; experience in secretarial or clerical work. Answer phones, assist building guests, provide support for events, word processing and data entry.  Flexibility in schedule is needed.  For information and to apply, go to www.oaisd.org  Deadline is Fri, Feb 21.

 

City of Holland, Tree Trimmer:   Full-time, $17.45-$20.95/hour with fringe benefit package. Plants, trims, removes trees and shrubs; two or more years' experience trimming trees at high altitude within a bucket truck; knowledge of industrial safety standards; ability to lead a crew.  Send resume with cover letter to City of Holland, Human Resources Dept/Tree Trimmer 1, City Hall, 270 S. River Ave, Holland 49423; or by email to hr@cityofholland.com.  Deadline is Fri, Feb 21.

 

 

 

 

In the Community from ACEH February 3, 2014

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Because of the many community events planned for February,

ACEH will not hold a general meeting.  Stay tuned for

information on special programs in March and April.

 

TONIGHT, Mon, Feb 3 - Sat, Feb 8, 7:30 pm: Film, "Inuk"; a journey from Greenland's south to its north as an homage to origins of Inuit people; "a coming-of-age story of a 16-year-old Inuk raised in the capital Nuuk who is torn between the violence of his alcoholic parents and his dreams of creating an Inuit rock band."  Not rated.  At Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 W. 8th St, Holland.

 

Tues, Feb 4, 4 pm: Pause-Café: French conversation group.  All levels of fluency welcome.  At Lemonjello's, College Ave at 9^th St, Holland.

 

Fri, Feb 7, 6:30 pm: Justice for Our Neighbors-West Michigan (JFON) 10-Year Celebration.  Fundraising dinner and silent auction to benefit immigration legal services offered in Grand Rapids and Holland by the First United Methodist Church in both cities.  Since 2004, JFON-West Michigan has assisted over1,800 clients from 60 countries.  Event sponsorships available.  Dinner tickets $30.  L.Rampersad@jfonwestmichigan.org or (616) 481-8145.  At First United Methodist Church, Wesley Hall, 227 East Fulton, Grand Rapids.

 

Sat, Feb 8, noon to 4 pm: Black History Month Celebration: Juneteenth.  Noon – 2 pm: The Juneteenth King and Queen perform; discussion on bullying.  2 to 4 pm: Black History movie. Free; snacks provided.  At the Center of African American Art and History, 21 West 16^th St, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 8, 2 pm to 4 pm (rescheduled from Jan 25): Korean New Year Celebration with Chicago Korean Dancing Company, Korean Taekwondo Team, Maciek's Magic Show, and Gimbap Sushi Feast.  Free admission.  For information, contact Dr. John Kim at johnkimsma@gmail.com or (616) 795-8047 or 392-2635.  At Park Christian Reformed Church, 1496 West 32^nd, Holland.

 

Mon, Feb 10, 6:30 pm: Hate Crime 101.  Training by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights to assist crime victim service providers and law enforcement "to better understand how to define and respond to bias incidents."  Sponsored by the City of Holland Human Relations Commission.  Reservations at (616) 355-1328 or email hrc@cityofholland.com  At Herrick District Library auditorium, 300 S. River, Holland.

 

Tues, Feb 11, 4 pm:  "Open Secrets: My Journey from Poverty to Ph.D.": author Betty Brown Chappell, retired social work professor at Eastern Michigan University and a native of South Haven, speaks about her book. Presented by American Ethnic Studies program at Hope College.   At

 

Tues, Feb 11, 6 pm to 7:30 pm:  "Justice for Some or Justice for All" Community Forum: Racial Profiling, with Kalamazoo Township Police Chief Timothy Bourgeois sharing a study of racial profiling in the Kalamazoo area; followed by open forum on ways to "speak up and speak out" against racial injustice in our community.  At Imagine Fellowship, 167 West 20th, Holland.   

 

Wed, Feb 12, 7 pm: GRCC Diversity Lecture Series: "Youth Revolt: The Future of the Middle East," by author and commentator Reza Aslan, on Islam, the complexities of the new Middle East, the young generation of Muslims "clamoring for their rights and freedoms." Free; ASL interpreted.  (616) 234-3390.  At Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St, Grand Rapids.

 

Fri, Feb 14, noon:  West Michigan RISES! Event to raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence, in conjunction with international One Billion Rising for Justice campaign.  All are invited to gather and dance in unison in support.  Sponsors include Center for Women in Transition, GVSU Women's Center.  See facebook.com/WestMIRISES or contact Lesley Coghill, CWIT, at (616) 494-1741 or Lesleyc@cwitmi.org  At GVSU, 1110 Kirkhof Center Lobby, 1 Campus Drive, Allendale.

 

Sat, Feb 15, noon to 4 pm: Black History Month: "Celebrating Our Youth," with CJ Kingdom Grier teaching musical instruments as related to African history and a performance by Core City Youth Choir.  Free; snacks.  At the Center of African American Art and History, 21 West 16^th St, Holland.

 

Mon, Feb 17, 6 pm: Building Cultural Competence.  Presented by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights to "enhance understanding of five major cultural groups: African American, American Indian, Arab American, Asian American, and Latino Americans," including cultural protocols, cross-cultural communication, dispelling myths and stereotypes that lead to bias and discrimination, more. Sponsored by City of Holland Human Relations Commission.  Limited seating; free.  Reservations at (616) 355-1328 or email hrc@cityofholland.com  At Herrick Library auditorium, 300 S. River, Holland. 

 

Tues, Feb 18, 3 pm:  "Ready for Reform": Lakeshore Roundtable on Immigration Reform.  Panel of faith, business, education, police, and other local civic leaders on "how the broken immigration system is impacting our community and what we might do to strengthen a unified voice calling for reform."  Roundtable dialogue.  All are welcome.  Contact katekooyman@gmail.com  At City on a Hill Ministry Center, 100 Pine St, Zeeland (former Zeeland Hospital).

 

Fri, Feb 21, 8 am to 3 pm: Forum 2014: The Power of Economic Opportunity, with speakers Dr. Maggie Anderson, author of "Our Black Year," and businessman Bing Goei; breakouts on Courageous Conversations, Best Practices, Unintentional Bias, Economic Empowerment in the Latino Community, others.  Sponsored by Partners for a Racism-Free Community.  $55 includes lunch. Pre-register at www.prfc-gr.org or Eventbrite.com. At Eberhard Center, GVSU,  301 Fulton St West, Grand Rapids.

 

Fri, Feb 21, 7 to 10 pm, and Sat, Feb 22, 9:30 am to 10:15 pm:  The 2014 Justice Conference Holland "to promote dialogue on issues such as human trafficking, slavery, poverty, HIV/AIDS, and human rights" and to "educate, inspire, and connect West Michigan residents around a shared concern for the vulnerable and oppressed."  Holland event is a live simulcast of the conference, which is held in Los Angeles with speakers Dr. Bernice King, Rich Stearns of World Vision, Eugene Cho of One Day's Wages, Rev. Gabriel Salguero of National Latino Evangelical Coalition, Jim Wallis of Sojourners, and musical groups and artists. Cost is $34; must register at www.thejusticeconferenceholland.com  At Engedi Church, 710 Chicago Dr, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8:30 pm: Black History Month event: "Saturday Night Live," with open mic, gospel rappers, spoken word, comedy, r&b, and other musical performances.  Soul food dinner.  Tickets $12 adults; $6 ages 18 and under.  Tickets at the door or contact wayne465@yahoo.com

At Imagine Fellowship, 167 West 20^th, Holland.

 

Sat, Feb 22, 6 pm to 8 pm: International Food Fair.  Dishes prepared by Hope College international students.  Admission is $5 for 5 tickets; additional tickets 50 cents; most dishes cost 1 or 2 tickets.  At Maas Center, Columbia Ave at 11th St, Holland.

 

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Michigan Economic Justice Fellowship:   Sponsored by the Center for Progressive Leadership as part of the Economic Justice Alliance of Michigan, to provide 11 days of paid training (1 or 2 days a month from Feb through Nov in Detroit) in community organizing skills for low-wage or minimum wage workers.  $1,000 stipend plus child care if needed.  For more information, email Dessa at Dcosma@progressiveleaders.org  Application deadline is Wed, Feb 5, 2014.

 

Mary Free Bed Guild of Grand Rapids 2014-15 Scholarships:  (1) Minority Scholarship Program for minority students pursing degrees in nursing, neuropsychology, orthotics, prosthetics, rehabilitation therapy.  (2) Disability Scholarship Program (new) to assist with education-related expenses of students with disabilities who are pursing a post-secondary degree; preference given to those in a graduate or undergraduate clinical rehabilitation or healthcare-related program or career, but all qualified applicants will be considered.  Contact Marcus Manders at (616) 493-9752.  Applications available online at www.maryfreebed.com  Application deadline is Tues, Apr 1, 2014.

 

JOB OPENINGS

Michigan United: Minimum Wage Campaign Organizers (Detroit, Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo): Contract position, Feb 10-May 23; pay is $10,000.  Oversee campaign to put a question to raise the minimum wage on the state ballot in 2014.  Recruit volunteers, build teams and relationships, carry out campaign projects.  Comfortable with office software and learning new technologies.  Need own car, cell phone, and computer.  Michigan United is a statewide coalition of faith, labor, civil rights, business, social service organizations.  www.miunited.org  Resume and cover letter to bartosz@miunited.org; cc: angela@miunited.org; subject line: Minimum Wage Campaign Organizer.  Deadline is Tues, Feb 4, 2014.

 

Ready for School (Holland): Receptionist.   Full-time, with benefits; salary commensurate with experience and education.  Must be bilingual, able to read and write in Spanish.  Reception and administrative support; proficient with computers and software programs; interpersonal and organizational skills; ability to work flexible hours for committee meetings or special events.  Call (616) 395-7055 for an emailed description.  Send resume now to kkortas@readyforschool.org; Ready for School seeks to fill the position by mid-February.

 

State of Michigan Department of Human Services: Word Processing Assistant, Ottawa County. Job # 4308-PD-F3700-012314-WPA57-Des.  Full-time, $14.72-$20.81/hour.  Provide clerical support to Migrant Unit and carry out Front Desk Reception duties, including interpretation services as needed.  Must speak, read, and write Spanish fluently. Deadline for applying is Fri, Feb 7, 2014.  For more information and application form, Control (Ctrl key) and Click on this long link below:  

 

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MOKA openings in Ottawa County area: Residential Support Staff, Community Support Staff, Mentors.  Full time, part time, and on-call openings; various shifts.  MOKA supports individuals with developmental and other disabilities and their families in six West Michigan counties.  Go to www.moka.org, select the Careers tab, and apply online.