Imperial Training
The School of the Americas: Military Training and Political Violence in the Americas, by Lesley Gill, is a thorough, well-written account of U.S. military imperialism, as its been practiced through the Georgia-based School of the Americas. Gill interviewed SOA-trained military leaders from the United States, Colombia, Honduras, and Bolivia; anti-SOA activists; and those who bear the brunt of the schools devastating legacy - peasant farmers in Colombia and Bolivia. Duke University Press.
Peaks and Valleys
The Appalachians covers the regions broad musical terrain and history - its 22 tracks contain everything from gospel to bluegrass and country. Lonesome wails run alongside instrumentals, June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash sing of "The Road to Kaintuck," Ricky Skaggs takes on the "Soldier of the Cross," and everybody has a good time in "Hillbilly Fever." Dualtone.
Public Stewardship vs. Private Profit
Thirst takes a look at the fierce debate raging around the world over water - who does it belong to? Directors Alan Snitow and Deborah Kaufman interview community members in the U.S., India, Bolivia, and Japan who are trying to keep global companies from seizing control of local water. The hour-long DVD includes special features, such as interviews, an activist tool kit, and a delightful vignette of "water" poetry. www.bullfrogfilms.com.
Broken Values