Jim Lommasson, noted photographer and artist, has assembled a very powerful book—although Jim is clear in pointing out that he is NOT the author, nor photographer, of this collection. “If I get in the way that could taint their [soldiers’] stories. The viewer/reader can follow the soldier through their eyes; not through the eyes of an interpreter.”
These are the stories and photos of soldiers, now home from Iraq, and their family members. Succinct and chilling, the reader is transported into the war. “These are your children’s stories,” says Lommasson, directing his comments to current and future generations. You see what soldiers are doing to others, and how they in turn are affected by their actions. The photographs are well chosen, and this book is uniquely hand made. Each page reflects tremendous respect and care for the individuals who speak their truth.
The mother of one American Marine writes an apology to the Iraqi family killed by her son, and describes the deep suffering of her son, as well as her own.
Lommasson’s book was purchased by Yale University and by Reed College. He is busy assembling new copies for them, and will retain the original for display at future events. Jim donated $700, sale of one book, to Coffee Strong, and the sale of the other to a Portland-base organization also serving returning soldiers.
You can review a few of the pages at http://www.23sandy.com/bookpower/artists/lommasson.html.
Grants Received and Legendary Donors
Coffee Strong is delighted to report we received a $10,000 grant from Ben & Jerry’s Foundation (helps provide GI Rights counseling and operating expenses} as well as a $5,000 matching grant from the local family foundation, Lucky Seven.
“Manson and Frances Backus created “Lucky Seven” with the hope of giving back and improving the [Puget Sound] community where they lived and prospered…Since 1996, the Lucky Seven Foundation has provided grants to nonprofit organizations which have included…those that benefit health, welfare, education, arts, and the environment.“
We want to thank each of you who helped raise $1,000 toward the ads Coffee Strong needs to run in local newspapers, aimed at soldiers returning from Afghanistan.
By the fall, nearly 18,000 men and women from various local units will have returned to JBLM (Fort Lewis-McChord) this year – the largest return since both wars started. Some 800 soldiers were scheduled to come home this holiday weekend.
Our goal to reach the attention of returning soldiers will be fulfilled by the Lucky Seven matching grant, which you can help us with now by clicking here. $2,500 donated this month will help us place full page ads, describing all the services available to soldiers through Coffee Strong.
The next $2,500 match will help with one month’s operating expenses. (The cost to keep Coffee Strong open is about $4,200 per month).
While it may sound like funds are flowing in abundantly, these donations will keep Coffee Strong open through this summer. This Fall our supporters will be called upon to assist the CS veterans with launching a full-time t-shirt business, which will provide transitional employment to a few veterans in 2011.
Veterans and soldiers receive referrals in a confidential setting for: GI Rights, including addressing racism, torture, domestic violence, stop-loss, addictions, PTSD, grieving, transitional employment and education coaching. We are grateful to provide critical, confidential services with your help.
Coffee Strong board and staff Extend Deepest Thanks to:
• The Abe Keller Peace Education Fund for their $1,000 contribution to keeping services available to soldiers and vets. See their website at http://www.abekellerpeacefund.org/
• Our anonymous donor who contributed $5,000, to whom we are very grateful for continued support (covers six weeks of operating expenses).
• Two anonymous members of Veterans For Peace who contributed $1100 to launch the Coffee Card outreach campaign! (details below)
• Judy Piggot for her generous $500 donation to the full-page media ad.
Ways You Can Help Coffee Strong
Should you be retired, or interested in an internship, the following positions and items are sought:
• An experienced fundraiser
• Baristas (we provide training!)
• Land for use in farming, or for transitional housing for veterans
If you are interested in helping with any of the above, send your response to contact@coffeestrong.org.
Coming Later in July!
Mid-month this July, the Coffee Cards will be available at Coffee Strong. Cool coffee cards for purchase in a range of prices make great gifts, and serve a dual purpose. They help us cover our monthly operating costs and this is a great way to engage new people in stopping by, to see for themselves the warmth and support of Coffee Strong. Be one of the first to give a gift! Check in any time after July 15th. We will announce availability of the cards on the web at www.Coffeestrong.org.
Check the Calendar of Events for notice of a Report-Back from people who attended the US Social Forum in Detroit!
