Group schedules events to mark ‘Peace Week’

Metro Wire Staff

A local group inspired by the value of peacemaking is offering a series of community events in Stevens Point Sept. 16-23.

A range of activities will nurture a culture of peace for all ages. All events are free and open to the public.

-The first event is Democracy in the Park, Sunday, Sept. 16, 4 p.m. at the Pfiffner Park Bandshell. The hourlong program will include reading sections of the U.S. Constitution followed by an open mic. Citizens may share insights about keeping civil discourse civil and seeking common ground. Displays will include information on voter registration and activities for children.

“Making peace is about getting along with each other and the Constitution provides a blueprint for our civil relationships,” said Beverly West from the Daughters of the American Revolution, whose group is cosponsoring the event.

-Networking for Peace will be held at the Portage Co. Public Library, 1000 Main St., on Sept. 20 at 6:30 p.m. Facilitator Lois Lawler said the goal is to bring “community members, including older students, to meet one another, share notes, and to set up channels to maintain an ongoing, community peace calendar.”

-Another event geared to all ages is Singing for Peace on Friday, Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m. at the band shell. Schools, church, and community choices are invited to lead the singing of three songs on International Peace Day. The 30-minute chorale gathering will conclude near sundown with “Taps”.

Larry Hansen will conduct the performers. Interested performers should call (715) 341-2790 or email [email protected].

-A meditative walk will be held from 10 a.m. until noon the following morning. The Sept. 22 walk, organized by Julie Meadows, will be held at Lake Joanis in Schmeeckle Reserve and will include pauses to read quotations about peace and nonviolence.

-Franciscans Downtown, the primary sponsor of Making Peace Week, will host two other events at the library. A midweek viewing and discussion of Mystic River on Wednesday, Sept. 19, 1 p.m.; and to close the week Making Peace with the Planet, a discussion about stewardship and care of the earth on Sunday, Sept. 23 at 4 p.m.

“Anyone who values making peace and has a voice to promote these events can identify as a cosponsor on our Facebook Page, where you can like, comment, share and download a poster,” said Mary Ann Krems, event planner.