Urban Action 1/9 

This week's calls to action include the following events and activities. (All are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted.)

Guantanamo vigil

Anti-war activists will hold a "Close Guantanamo" vigil from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, January 11, at 12 Corners in Brighton. The protestors are asking for the immediate closure of the prison. The public is welcome to join the vigil.

Regional transit planning meeting

The Genesee Transportation Council will hold a planning committee meeting for the Genesee-Finger Lakes region at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 10. The US Department of Transportation requires metro planning meetings for cities to qualify for federal highway and transit funds. The meeting is at the state transportation office, 1530 Jefferson Road. Information: www.gtcmpo.org.

Mentors needed for former inmates

The Judicial Process Commission is seeking volunteers to become mentors for people adjusting to life after incarceration. Attendance at the JPC's Faith Community Adult Mentoring Training sessions is required. Dinner will be followed by the training from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, January 21, and Tuesday, January 22. The sessions are at Friends Meeting House, 84 Scio Street. Information and registration: 325-7727.

Grants for environmental projects

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is accepting applications for Environmental Justice Community Impact Grants. The DEC will award more than $1 million to organizations working with communities facing environmental issues. The grants range from $2,500 to $50,000. Applications are due by Friday, March 8. Applications and information about grant workshops: www.dec.ny.gov/public/31226.html or call (518) 402-8556.

Holiday tree recycling

The city is providing free holiday tree recycling service at five sites through Thursday, January 31. There is a drop-off site in each of the city's four quadrants: southwest, Genesee Valley Park near the tennis courts; southeast, Cobbs Hill Park at Lake Riley Lodge's east parking lot; northeast, Norton Village opposite 341 Waring Road; northwest and Charlotte at Estes Street opposite Abbott's Ice Cream parking lot. Trees can also be dropped off at the Materials Giveback Program Center at the corner of Colfax and Ferrano streets. Information: 428-6536.

Film on Shakur's life

Spiritus Christi Church will show "Detroit's Native Son," a documentary film about Yusef "Bunchy" Shakur at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 9. The film examines Shakur's experience of going from street thug to prisoner to community leader and author. The film will be shown at 121 North Fitzhugh Street, and will be followed by a discussion.

Talk on invasive species

The Messiah Lutheran Church men's breakfast will host a discussion about invasive species at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 12. June Summers of the Genesee Valley Audubon Society will discuss environmental problems such as the ash borer. The event is at 4301 Mt. Read Boulevard. Admission: $4. Registration requested: 865-1866.