- Bangor

The Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action marked 25 years of resistance to the Trident nuclear missile and submarine fleet during this year's Nagasaki commemoration, August 9-10, at the fleet's Pacific home port in Bangor, Washington.

A day-long vigil outside the main gate on Nagasaki Day marked time with shared reflections and prayer. Some vigilers fasted throughout the day, in solidarity with Voices in the Wilderness fasts at the United Nations in New York City and several other locations, calling for an end to the sanctions and cry for war against Iraq.

On August 10, about 50 people processed to the new main gate, where they blocked the road behind a long banner proclaiming Nagasaki Bombing - Never Again. Kitsap County sheriff's deputies, who had facilitated the safety of the blockade, gave the group two minutes to leave the road or be arrested. The seven who remained were arrested and released.

In February, 2000, the county prosecutor declared that such action "does not constitute a crime" in the eyes of the community, and has declined to prosecute them.

For more information, contact Ground Zero, 16159 Clear Creek Road NW, Poulsbo, WA 98370, (360)377-2586, email: info@gzcenter.org web: www.gzcenter.org.