The U.S. Army’s School of the Americas (SOA) is commonly known as the School of Assassins because it trains Latin American military personnel to suppress democracy, violate human rights, and kill people. Although the army renamed it the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC), the deadly mission remained the same. Every November people gather near its gate at Fort Benning (near Columbus), Georgia, to nonviolently work for closing it. Every year Congress gets closer to cutting off the funding. The resistance is organized by School of the Americas Watch. Info: www.soaw.org.

Health Care for All–WA holds its annual meeting from 1 to 4 pm in the Forum at Horizon House, 900 University Street, Seattle. Newcomers are welcome! Program includes a new visual presentation developed by Larry Kalb, entertainment by the Raging Grannies, and free potluck refreshments. Info: 206-323-3393 or toll-free 1-877-903-9723.

The Dream for Darfur Olympic Torch Relay will urge China to use its influence with the government of Sudan and as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to allow a robust security force on the ground in Darfur to protect civilians and humanitarian aid workers. The Olympics will be held in China, so this gives us leverage now. In recognition of the Olympic torch, a relay began last August in the African nation of Chad, where many of Darfur’s refugees have gone, and is circling the globe. When it passes through Seattle, please gather at Alki Beach, 2701 Alki Ave SW, West Seattle, at 12:30 p.m., to light a torch of conscience for Darfur. Info: www.savedarfur.org/page/event/detail/4jv54.

Peacekeeper Training is likely to be offered in Tacoma to help keep events safe, nonviolent and effective. Info: Dave Lambert, 253-759-2280 or dmlamb@harbornet.com.

Three speakers (Ray Nacanaynay, Gail Johnson and Glen Anderson) will share information and encourage local organizing for impeaching Bush and Cheney when the Tacoma FOR meets. 3:00 p.m. business meeting, 4:00 p.m. program, and 5:00 p.m. potluck. Tacoma Friends Meeting House (Hillside Community Church), 2508 S. 39th St., Tacoma, just west of Borders Bookstore on 38th St. near the Tacoma Mall. Info: David Lambert 253-759-2280 or Vivi Bartron 253-572-4912.