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Film and panel discussion on coal wars in Texas scheduled


NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - A documentary about Texas coal wars and a panel discussion on alternative energies will be presented at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House, 329 E. Main St. in downtown Nacogdoches. The evening is a joint presentation of the Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts, School of Art and Austin Heights Baptist Church.

The film, "Fighting Goliath: Texas Coal Wars," follows the story of Texans who opposed the construction of 19 conventional coal-fired power plants slated to be built in Eastern and Central Texas. An introduction to the film details the involvement of faith communities in the battle.

The film, which is narrated by Robert Redford, was co-produced by the Redford Center at the Sundance Preserve and Alpheus Media.

All viewers are invited remain after the 34-minute film for refreshments and a panel discussion on alternative energies and ideas about what the faith community can do to ensure clean air for everyone. Additionally, a report will be given on the status of other potential and existing coal-burning power plants in Texas.

Panelists include Ryan Rittenhouse, coal block assistant from Public Citizen; Rob Borowski, children's wellness and obesity prevention coordinator from Interfaith Power and Light; and Kyle Childress, pastor of Austin Heights Baptist Church.

Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, please call (936) 468-1131.