Sunday night, December 14, 2008 saw a huge turnout at Back 40 Urban Cafe in support of political prisoner Veronza Bowers. Hors d'oeuvres, beer, wine and great vegetarian/vegan meals were served while diners had the opportunity to learn about Veronza's case and leave him personal messages on the back of their menus.

Veronza Bowers was a member of the Black Panthers accused of killing a US Park Service ranger in 1973. Despite a lack of physical evidence and the testimony of two armed robbery felons who had their charges subsequently dropped for testifying, Bowers was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. His mandatory release date was set for April 7, 2004 but his release was rescinded then and again in February 2005 after intervention by US Attorney General Alberto Gonzales on behalf of the Fraternal Order of Police. He has been moved from Coleman in Florida to the US Penitentiary in Atlanta.

You can send him a note of encouragement to:

Veronza Bowers, #35316-136
Atlanta USP
PO Box 150160
Atlanta, GA 30315

All mail must have a return address that is not a PO box. Your supportive notes to Veronza will let the authorities know that there are those of us out here who are watching his case very carefully. More information and CDs of Veronza's music are available at Loose Screws on King Street in St Augustine Florida.

-- Mary Lawrence

Veronza Bowers Benefit Dinner