Free admission 1/2-11 PDX Classical Chinese Garden

The Portland Classical Chinese Garden will be celebrating the tenth anniversary of its opening throughout the coming year.  NW Natural will sponsor the Anniversary Year, and they will kick things off by hosting the general community to free admission into the Garden for ten days, January 2 -January 11.  Please look for updated information about these at: www.portlandchinesegarden.org

YP Discussion: Climate Change

Climate Change (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 9 December 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

World leaders are gathering in Copenhagen for the U.N. Climate Change Conference. (Some local leaders, too.) Originally meant to adopt a binding climate treaty, this now seems unlikely. Disagreements abound about who should do what and how much. How important are such treaties? Can we prevent climate change without them? Is the cost of prevention too high, and should we focus on adapting to the changes instead? Are there ways reduce greenhouse gases beyond just focusing on electric cars and windmills? And what about the Maldives? It's winter time, so let's heat things up.

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Dubai: business as usual

With all the news stories focusing on Dubai in the last week, discussing whether the economy of the most famous emirate is on the brink of collapse, pulling the rest of the Middle East, and the world into another economic crisis, the Guardian published a brilliant story about life in Dubai now, and the perspective on the crisis by the expats living there, and even a few Emiratis.  Highly recommend it to anyone who has been following the news from Dubai.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/dec/03/dubai-world-economic-crash

New Deal Distillery Holiday Event 12/5 12-6pm

Season's Eatings a local artisans food, wine and spirits market   Please join us for a spirited holiday event celebrating the area's finest chocolate, cheese, baked goods, wine and spirits, while benefiting the Oregon Food. Sample, sip and meet the artisans behind the culinary treasures and find something wonderful for every foodie on your list! New Deal Distillery and Tasting Room 1311 SE 9th Avenue * Portland, Oregon 97214 Saturday, December 5th, Noon to 5pm Admission: 1 non-perishable food item or cash donation for the Oregon Food Bank. Because no one goes hungry if we can help it. (And we can help it.) for more information, call 503.381.9887

WOMEN in Business Holiday Showcase & OR Food Bank Fundraiser Nov 21 at McMenamins Kennedy School)

Support 45 local women vendors at the 4th Annual Women in Business Holiday Showcase on Saturday, November 21st from 9am-3pm. This fun event is FREE to the public and men, women and families are welcome. This is a great place to do your holiday shopping while supporting local women in business. There will be a silent auction during the showcase and 100% of all proceeds will be donated to the Oregon Food Bank. You are welcome to bring canned food to donate to the food bank - but this is not required. Some of the businesses and products represented include: health and wellness specialists jewelers artists yoga instructors beauty product reps authors Hand bag reps masseuse reflexologist Home decor & housewares women's clothing Scentsy wickless candle rep 3 lodging facilities realtors mortgage reps ...and much more! For more information visit http://www.womeninbusinessportland.com

Holiday Beer Fest 12/2-6

It is that awesome time of the year, the Holiday Beer Fest. My favorite one here by far. The cost is $20. More info at http://holidayale.com/index.php ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CNRG Nonprofit Networking Night - Thursday Nov 19th

When: Third Thursday of the month - 5:30-7:30pm.  Where: Airplay Café, 701 E Burnside St. (map) Join us for an evening of conversation and live music!   Are you a nonprofit or someone who works with them?  A nonprofit looking for affordable consultants or vendors?  A volunteer looking for an organization eager for your time?  A nonprofit staff member wanting to partner on a project?   If so, CNRG's nonprofit networking event is for you. Come meet others who work and volunteer in Portland's nonprofit sector. Swap resources, share ideas, devise solutions and just hang out with community-minded people like yourself at a great community cafe. Locally owned Airplay Café has created a welcoming environment for music lovers of all ages.   Don't forget to bring a friend and a few bucks to enjoy one of Airplay Café's delightful appetizers or coffee, beer or wine.   3rd Thursday of the month, At Airplay Café, 701 E Burnside Street, Portland 97214,  Lower Burnside district – convenient location with parking!  www.airplaycafe.com

Japanese Currents at the Northwest Film Center

The Northwest Film Center is featuring two animé short films in early December.  For more information on the festival, films, and to buy tickets go to http://www.nwfilm.org/screenings/22/211/. 

 

 

 

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YP Discussion: Democracy

World Peace (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 14 October 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Democracy is an ideal that as Americans we easily have an affinity for. Twenty years ago, the Berlin Wall fell, bringing democracy to a large group of countries, expanding the European Union even to former Soviet Republics. In the past few years, the U.S. has fought two wars partially with hopes of spreading democracy further. But as Iraq and Afghanistan show, democracy is not an easy concept to bring to a country. Even when it is adopted by nations, it's often corrupted and a sham (see Iran, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, and Egypt). What is democracy, and do you know it when you see it? Can it be spread by force, or can it only arise successfully from internal forces? Let's vote on it!

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PDX Zombie Walk 10/24/09

So this does not have any real international tie, but I wanted to share this fun, different festival local free event with all! PORTLAND ZOMBIE WALK 2009 gather 3:15-3:30 pm. meet at SW Park Blocks between Jefferson and Madison. Tell your zombie friends and family. donate More info at: http://www.myspace.com/portlandzombiewalk

Greg Mortenson in PDX- almost sold out!

GREG MORTENSON

STONES INTO SCHOOLS

DEC., 14, 2009 

7:30 PM AT THE ARLENE SCHNITZER CONCERT HALL

A  few tickets are still available through Ticketmaster, Portland Center for the Performing Arts box office or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

In his lecture, Mortenson recounts his ongoing efforts to promote peace through education and literacy by establishing schools for girls in Afghanistan; his extensive work in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan after a massive earthquake hit the region in 2005; and the unique ways he has built relationships with Islamic clerics, militia commanders, and tribal leaders even as he was dodging shootouts with feuding Afghan warlords and surviving an eight-day armed abduction by the Taliban. 

Ticket prices are $75, $45, & $25 (The $75 and $45 dollar tickets include a complimentary signed copy of his latest book Stones into Schools).

Idealist Grad Fair on Thursday, Oct 22!

Idealist Grad Fair on Thursday, Oct 22! Want to make a difference with a graduate degree? Idealist.org Portland Graduate Degree Fair for the Public Good ...where you: -meet with representatives from 75 international social impact graduate programs -explore how different graduate degrees can develop career and leadership opportunities -attend a panel of graduate admissions professionals to gain insight about admissions and financial aid   Free and open to the public! Thursday, October 22 5 - 8 pm Portland State University, Smith Memorial Student Union, Ballroom, 3rd Floor 1825 SW Broadway Avenue, Portland, OR 97201   hosted by Portland State University Master of International Management Program http://www.gradbusiness.pdx.edu/graduate_business_programs/mim/

The World Affairs Council of Oregon

Strobe Talbott
President, The Brookings Institution
"President Obama’s Foreign Policy Challenges"

7 PM Lecture — The Hilton Hotel, Grand Ballroom
Free for students; $5 Council members; $10 non-members
Tickets — www.worldoregon.org 503-274-7488
Pre-registration required
October 22, 2009

One of America’s foremost foreign policy analysts, Strobe Talbott served as Deputy Secretary of State from 1994–2001 and assumed the presidency of the Brookings Institution in July 2002. He was founding director of the Yale Center for the Study of Globalization and, in the 1980s, Time Magazine’s principal correspondent on US Soviet relations. The author of 11 books, his most recent—The Great Experiment: The Story of Ancient Empires, Modern States, and the Quest for a Global Nation, published in January 2008—combines historical and political analysis with personal reflection on efforts to forge a peaceful community of nations.

Mr. Talbott has been a fellow of the Yale Corporation and is a director of the Council on Foreign Relations, the North American Executive Committee of the Trilateral Commission, and the American Association of Rhodes Scholars. He is a member of the Aspen Strategy Group. In 2009 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

The World Affairs Council of Oregon
Register online at http://www.worldoregon.org/, or call (503) 274-7488

Three Portraits of Turkey
A Cultural Immersion Experience for the Community

In celebration of the 86th Anniversary of the Republic of Turkey &the NEW PSU Center for Turkish Studies

Sponsored by The Turkish Cultural Foundation, In cooperation with World Affairs Councils of America, World Affairs Council of Oregon & The PSU Center for Turkish Studies

October 30, 6:00–9:00 PM — The Delight of Turkish Cooking, Culture and Community
PSU Native American Center, 710 Jackson St. @ Broadway, Portland, OR
$15 for WAC Members, PSU Students & Faculty, $20 for Non-Members. $5 for youth 12 & under.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal, a Turkish Folktale enactment, Folk Dance & Music, a display & sales of Turkish art & artifacts. Hear
from recent visitors to Turkey and meet members of the local Turkish community & PSU Turkish faculty and students. Register
online at http://www.worldoregon.org/.

November 4, 7:00–9:00 PM — A Vision of Turkey through Film and Discussion
PSU Smith Memorial Union, 1825 SW Broadway @ Harrison, Room 296/98, Portland, OR
$5 for World Affairs Council Members, PSU Students/Faculty, $10 for General Public
Enjoy coffee, tea and Turkish desserts while viewing the 2005 documentary, Crossing the Bridge — Sounds of Istanbul a
journey through the music scene and cultural life in modern Istanbul, Turkey. This wonderful film is an inspired portrait of Turkish
music — from arabesque to indie rock and rap. This will be topped off with a discussion led by Dr. Pelin Basci, PSU Professor of
Turkish Language and Culture. Register online at http://www.worldoregon.org/.

November 8, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM — The Arts and Crafts of Turkey Free Event
Ottoman Klasik, Turkish Coffee and Fine Imports, 5015 NE Fremont @ 50th, Portland, OR
Join us for an open house and enjoy presentations on Turkish artistry, decorating advice from a Street of Dreams consultant,
demonstrations on Turkish coffee making, a mini tutorial on signs and symbols in Turkish carpets, merchandise prize drawings
and a 35% discount throughout the day, all the while sampling Turkish coffee, meze and baklava treats!

More information available at www.ottomanklasik.com or (503) 282-2848.

YP Discussion: World Peace

World Peace (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 14 October 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

As every beauty contestant knows, World Peace is a good thing. Alfred Nobel tried to promote it by having a prize (and a lot of money) presented each year to those who do the most to further it. How has the Nobel Peace Prize and those who have received it changed our view of World Peace? Are we better off than when Nobel died? Does the presentation of the Prize to Obama last week help him further his goals towards global reconciliation? Or was it presented too soon? Does he deserve it? Let's have a beer and channel World Peace.

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Global Population Lecture

Andrew Revkin of the New York Times

In his free-to-the-public Portland lecture on Nov. 10, Revkin will talk about the natural and human challenges of supporting a population that’s expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, and he’ll talk about how we can restore certain environmental conditions and create a more resilient future.

When: Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Time: 7:30 PM

Where: Portland State University - Smith Ballroom, 1825 SW Broadway

Tickets (limited to 2 per person) are available at the PSU Box Office at 1825 SW Broadway. The Broadway doors of the Smith Memorial Student Union. The office hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

For more info, click here.

Introduction to International Humanitarian Law

Saturday, October 3
9 a.m. to noon
American Red Cross, Oregon Trail Chapter
3131 N. Vancouver Ave., Portland
Cost: FREE

Are there laws of war? Is torture illegal? What are the Geneva Conventions? Are there protected groups during an armed conflict? If a child is holding a hand grenade, is he protected by IHL? Learn the answers to these questions and many more at this free seminar.

Disputed Territory (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 30 September 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Kashmir, the Palestinian Territories, East Timor, Tibet, Northern Ireland, the Kurdish region, Kosovo, Eritrea, Abkhasia and South Ossetia. Disputes over territory cause some of the most emotional and violent conflicts in the world. Why is this? What do these places have in common? Does it always make sense to "let the people decide"? What about the minority? Should the international community always intervene and try to solve these conflicts, or do they need to be resolved locally? Where has the painful path to peace been successful, and can we learn from those examples?

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Polish Fesitval 9/26-27

Quick info: Dates: wknd of SEPTEMBER 26 & 27 Saturday: 11am to 10pm (with Disco Polo from 10 to midnight) Sunday: noon to 6pm how to get there: http://www.portlandpolonia.org/festival/directions.html From I-5 - take exit #303 and drive West on Going Street - take second left into N. Interstate - drive five blocks, and the festival will appear on your left - drive one more block and turn left into Kaiser parking Festival address: 3900 N. Interstate Ave How to buy food & drinks: You buy round wood tokens called Zloty (the name of Polish Currency) and use them for food & drink. The cost is 1=1 (1 dollar for 1 token). Entertainment, Attractions, & Performers! This is the Entertainment Stage Schedule: http://www.portlandpolonia.org/festival/entertainment.html http://www.portlandpolonia.org/festival/attractions.html http://www.portlandpolonia.org/festival/performers.html

The Oceans: A Global Resource (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 16 September 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Nearly three quarters of the globe is covered in oceans. Most of it is legally a shared resource among all countries. Is this fact leading to a tragedy of the commons? Fisheries are collapsing and floating islands of garbage are appearing trapped in ocean currents. Who is responsible, and how does the global community deal with these problems? In addition, global climate change is opening parts of the ocean to exploitation never before accessible. How will this change global commerce? It's time to head out to sea!

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Stand Up and Take Action

YP DISCUSSION

Latin America's Ideological Struggles (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 2 September 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Hugo Chávez, Evo Morales, Lula da Silva, Manuel Zelaya. After decades of rulers bearing right, a new crop of leaders in South and Central America are leading the region to the left. The transitions haven't always been smooth or peaceful. Are the changes classic cases of the people asserting their rights over monied and corrupt interests? Or is it another group of strong men grabbing power? Are some countries finally finding their democratic voices?

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International Healthcare (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 19 August 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Now that the debate on healthcare in the United States is heating up, both proponents and detractors of reform are comparing our system with others around the world. How do these systems work and are they really better than the U.S. system? Or do they deny their people the best healthcare possible? What can we learn from their experiences, and do they apply to the situation in the U.S.?

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Free Summer Park Concerts

There's still time to check out a variety of concerts this summer in Portland's parks and for free. More details at: http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/index.cfm?c=42670

Sunday Parkways with Persian and Middle Eastern Music of Shabava and al-Andalus, Laurelhurst Park

This Sunday August 16th, as part of the Portland's Sunday Parkways Event, there will be a Middle East music Festival at the Laurelhurst Park in SE Portland.  Performing artists are ShabAva under leadership of Mr. Bobak Salehi and accompanied by Maestro Hossein Salehi, and Al-Andalus the Middle Eastern and North African band under Tariq and Julia Bonzi's mastership.  So gearup that bike of yours, ride the Sunday Parkway and then stay for the concert from 1-4 pm at the Laurelhurst Park.  Click here for more info!

 

This event organized by Andisheh Center and the American Iranian Friendship Council and became possible through a community block grant from the City of Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement and the SEUL Coalition.
 

August 13: Doing Business in the UK

 

"Doing Business in the UK"
A Case Study in Software

 

August 13, 2009 - Thinking of taking your company, product or services abroad? Is it time to expand into the UK?

The British-American Business Council of the Pacific Northwest is pleased to partner in its first event in the Portland area with UKTI (United Kingdom Trade & Investment), Business Oregon (Oregon Business Development Department) and the Software Association of Oregon (SAO) to provide a vision for business growth overseas.

This case study will feature representatives of Pacific Northwest companies that have made the leap already as well as concrete trade advice & support from UKTI to aid your success.

Time for important networking with a broad spectrum of companies at various stages of international business development and other international resources will conclude the event.

Speaker Lineup
Julian Evans, British Consul General
Bob Lewis, Former President/CEO, SNAPin Software, Inc.,
Richard Stott, Matchbox Mobile
Helen Moore, Vice Consul, Software, UKTI
Andy James, Osborne Clarke

Event Details
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009
Time: 3:30pm-6:00pm
Location: NW Natural 220 NW 2nd Ave Portland, OR 97209
Cost: $10
Includes appetizers and beverages
REGISTER*

*Please do not register as a site member. When registering for this event, simply click "continue without signing in" and you will be directed to the main registration page.

 

Event Sponsors:

 

 

 

 

 

Wherefore Art Thou Cyprus (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 5 August 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

Split between Turks and Greeks, Cyprus is an island divided. Though there have been moments of hope at reconciliation between the two sides, these have so far fallen through and the Greek portion of the island joined the EU without the northern Turkish side. What will it take to solve the dispute? What should be done? We will have a special guest, Alexia Solomou, a Cypriot and law student who will be able to shed some light on the conflict and facilitate our discussion.

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Think & Drink

Think & Drink with Earl Blumenauer and Wim Wiewel. A happy-hour conversation series sponsored by the Oregon Council for the Humanities.

Representative Earl Blumenauer and Portland State University president Wim Wiewel will discuss mind-changing moments of their own and how change happens in our individual and collective thinking at the next Think & Drink happy-hour conversation on Wednesday, August 12, 2009, at 6:30 at Rontoms, 600 E. Burnside, Portland. This free, open to the public, bimonthly series, which sparks provocative conversations about big ideas, is sponsored by the Oregon Council for the Humanities (OCH).

Russian Movie Night, Friday, July 31 2009

Anyone interested in Russian culture and cinematography should consider checking out a movie event this coming Friday, at Stage -13 in the Pearl.  More information below.

On Friday, July 31 2009 Gogallery and Ackerman Films invite you to the first "Russian Movie Night" to be held at Stage-13 (address below).

An evening dedicated to Russian culture will start at 7 pm with movies from 8:00 till 1:00 AM.

The movies, which will be announced before the show,  are cinematographic masterpieces  from 1920s to 2009 in high quality with  English subtitles on a large projection screen.

We'll serve tea and Russian cookies as well as soft drinks.  You can bring your own alcoholic beverage.

We hope to continue doing it every Last Friday of the month.

Stage 13 is located in the Pearl district on 13^th Avenue between Couch and Burnside

If you have any questions, please call Luba @ 503. 709.3991

What: Russian Movie Night

When: 7 till late , On Friday, July 31 2009

Where: 13 NW 13^th Ave, PDX, OR 97209

Admission: $5 

 

International Day in Solidarity with people of Iran: July 25

   Contact:

info@portlandstandswithiran.org 

 Portland Stands with Iran, a local ad-hoc committee of non-partisan ordinary citizens, will join more than 80 cities around the world for the International Day of Action in Solidarity with the people of Iran on July 25th:

UNITED FOR IRAN
http://united4iran.org
GLOBAL DAY OF ACTION
Endorsed by:  Shirin Ebadi, 2003 Nobel Laureate *** Nobel Women's Initiative *** Iranian League for the Defense of Human Rights *** International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran *** 42 Arab Human Rights Organizations *** Human Rights Watch *** Reporters without Borders *** Amnesty International *** PeaceJam *** FIDH *** Frontline *** Physicians for Human Rights *** Portland Stands with Iran *** American Iranian Friendship Council *** Individuals including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, actor Sean Penn, Iranian singer Dariush, author Reza Aslan, comedian Maz Jobrani, Nobel Laureates Jody Williams, Betty Williams, Mairead Maguire, Adolfo Perez Esquivel, Rigoberta Menchu Tum, and Iranian poets Simin Behbahani (in Iran) and Ismael Khoii

In Portland: SATURDAY, JULY 25, 1PM
PIONEER SQUARE - DOWNTOWN PORTLAND
MASS RALLY

Speakers will include: 

Rev. Kate Lore, First Unitarian Church

Martin Gonzales, Latin America Solidarity Activist and PPS Board member

Hala Gores, Palestinian American

Dr. Catherine Thomason, Physicians for Social Responsibility

Mazen Malek, Palestinians United

Tom Hastings, Portland State University

Kelly Campbell, United for Peace and Justice

Sherry Herberts, Amnesty International

United for: end the violence, democracy and human rights for Iran, release of all those detained and support for President Obama's message of concern and condemnation while opposing direct intervention by the US or Israel

 Followed by HUMAN CHAIN IN SUPPORT OF THE GREEN MOVEMENT

FOR DEMOCRACY IN IRAN

For more information please go to www.portlandstandswithiran.org

The International Culture Shock! 2009-2010 Season


Young Professionals are teaming up with the various cultural organizations around Portland to bring you select opportunities to attend cultural events with an international twist!

Event 1: Mikhail Baryshnikov & Ana Laguna Friday, October 2, 2009:

International Culture ShockTo kick off our series we invite you to attend, for a discounted rate, White Bird's openning night of its 2009-2010 season with a special, intimate performance by two legendary dancers, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Ana Laguna. These two have teamed together for a memorable collaboration, highlighting the work of three acclaimed contemporary choreographers: Mats Ek of Stockholm's Cullberg Ballet, Alexei Ratmanksy, the former Artistic Director of the Bolshoi Ballet and now Artists in Residence with American Ballet Theatre, and Benjamin Millepied, principal dancer with New York City Ballet. We will be organizing a get-together for YPs before or after the event, so stay tuned for future announcements.


Event 2: Zimbabwe Artists Project

Executive Director Dick Adams
will have just returned from Zimbabwe with art and stories to share with WAC members. Hear the incredible stories of the ZAP artists, while perusing beautiful pieces from Weya.
ZAP celebrates the artistry and accomplishments of women from rural Weya in eastern Zimbabwe. Through education, sale of their art in the U.S., and special projects, ZAP helps women become economically self-sufficient. Women of Weya are subsistence farmers, mothers, and householders as well as artists. Most women live on their own, providing for families. Sales of their art helps women afford food, clothing, school fees, medicines, transport, seeds and fertilizer. Since the market for Weya art in Zimbabwe is extremely limited, sales in the U.S. are critical. ZAP pays more than twice as much per piece as any other buyer, delivering cash at the time of purchase. ZAP's complementary goal is to communicate with Americans about Zimbabwe's history and culture, as well as about the artists' lives. At Weya art shows in the U.S., we address issues of gender, colonialism, and globalization. Stereotypes of plighted masses give way to images of rural African women as strong, talented, and fully capable human beings.


Event 3: Portland Opera: Orphée
November 6, 2009

Philip Glass-the most renowned and often produced opera composer of our time-carefully follows the script of Jean Cocteau's 1949 film Orphée. Mining such rich mythology, he creates a work of remarkable power that celebrates the potency of love and loyalty.
Fresh, new love may have its distinct passion. But married love adds a depth and breadth to that passion, binding two souls tightly into a single being. Such is the love between Orphée and his beloved Eurydice-one of the deepest, truest loves of all time. The delicacy and simplicity of the music highlight the powerful range of emotions that the characters-and all of us-experience in the course of this "must see" opera. The Portland Opera/West Coast premiere of a production the New York Times called "stunning." Sung in French with English translations projected above the stage.

Meet your fellow YPs for International Beer Festival - this Sunday

International Beer Festival

Join the YPs for a fun, outdoor social event at the Portland International Beer Festival!

Date & Time: Sunday, July 19th at 2 pm sharp!

Location: Meet by the elephant statue on the park blocks, which is north of Burnside b/w NW Park Ave & 8th Ave.

Cost: Beer drinkers pay $20 for 10 beer tickets and official PIB glass and $5 cover for non-drinkers/designated drivers (included free N/A beverages).

Payment is managed at the entrance gate; no pre-payment or registration available.
For more info on the fesitval

Rotary Group Study Exchange

Time for a Vacation (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 8 July 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

It's summer time and thoughts turn to vacation. Where in the world are you going? Where have you been? Where would you like to go? Come have a beer and share your stories or give travel tips for those seeking to travel abroad.

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Day of the African Child

YP DISCUSSION: THE IRANIAN REVOLUTION, PART 2

The Iranian Revolution, Part 2 (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 24 June 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

This week we will discuss the dramatic events following the elections in Iran. What role do the clerics, the military, the politicians, and the people play in the power struggle? We'll examine how technology has shaped the protests and what we know of them. We probably know much more than we would have without the Internet and services like Facebook and Twitter, but are we getting the full story? And finally, what will be the final outcome for the people of Iran and the region?

Stay Informed: The Official YP Blog
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Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.

vigil in support of Iranian people this Friday at 7 p.m.

We are a group of Iranian Americans from the Portland Metropolitan area and from Vancouver, WA. We are heartbroken by the violence inflicted upon the Iranian people. We are also tremendously proud of our fellow Iranians for their perseverance and non-violent presence in streets demanding change and justice. We invite you to join us for a silent vigil in solidarity with our courageous sisters and brothers who have been protesting ever since the election results were announced and their will was disregarded.

 

                                                                                                    Friday, June 19 at 7 PM

            in front of the Portland State University Library

                   at Hall and SW Park Blocks

 

We request to not display flags, political party affiliations or offensive slogans in order to focus on our message of unity with the people of Iran and our commitment to non-violence and free and fair elections. Please bring candles in containers and flowers.

Portland Pride 2009 6/13-14

Be sure to mark your calendars for the Portland Pride Festival this year on June 13th and 14th. As always we will have non-stop entertainment and lots of fun planned for our lovely and diverse community.   More Info: www.pridenw.org

Nicholas Kristof on traveling abroad safely

Interesting article by Nicholas Kristof in last weekend's NYT on traveling abroad and staying safe.  Although the purpose of the column was to inspire students to take a gap year and "live a little", his advice is good for any traveler, young or old, regardless of destination.  My favorite advice of his: "No. 14. If terrorists finger you, break out singing "O Canada"!"

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/31/opinion/31kristof.html?_r=2&em

AsiaFest 2009

Visit the Oregon Convention Center on Saturday, May 30th to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Portland's AsiaFest offers the opportunity to see a show, listen to music, and experience the craftsmanship and creativity of a variety of Asian cultures. The event will also feature cuisine from local Asian restaurants, a silent auction, and more. Admission is $5.00.  For more information, visit www.ARFoundation.net. 

 

WHEN:

Saturday, May 30, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm.

 

WHERE:

Oregon Convention Center

Exhibit Hall A

777 NE MLK, Jr. Blvd.

Portland, OR

 

YP DISCUSSION: IT'S A SMALL WORLD WIDE WEB

It's a Small World Wide Web (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 27 May 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

The Internet, World Wide Web, and other telecommunications technologies promise to bring the world together. Allowing people from all over the world to communicate and share information will promote understanding, right? But is that really happening? There are now nearly as many Chinese websites as English. Do you read any of them? And even in the English speaking web, what sites do you choose to read? Those that post articles that conform to your own world view? (Perhaps your search engine is helping you do so without your knowledge.) How is and will the Internet affect our relationship with the world? Will it help connect us or fragment us into our own little worlds? Start the discussion on our blog.

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Fireworks tonight- Free

Presented by: Rose Festival Association About: Portland's downtown waterfront illuminates during the Fireworks Spectacular, the Portland Rose Festival's kick-off event. More Info: Billed as one of Oregon's largest fireworks displays, this thunderous pyrotechnics show soars over the Waterfront Village beginning at nightfall. Visitors can expect some special features this year -- this year's show will be choreographed to music to add excitement and 'punch' (as our fireworks experts say). HOURS: Approximately 9:45 p.m. PHONE: 503.227.2681 ADMISSION/TICKETS: Free outside of the Waterfront Village gates or $5 gate admission. Tickets may be purchased on-site.   LOCATION: Tom McCall Waterfront Park S.W. Naito Parkway and Columbia Street Portland, OR

Thanks to all who came to YP Trivia at Lucky Lab NW tonight!

YP DISCUSSION: RESURGENT TALIBAN

Resurgent Taliban (YP Discussion Group)

The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group:

Wednesday, 13 May 2009 | 7:00 p.m.

Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP)
(Upstairs in the back room.)

As the U.S. shifts its focus from Iraq to Afghanistan in the war against Al Qaeda and the Taliban, militants are reshaping the war by taking over new areas in Pakistan. What does this mean for the U.S. strategy? Is the Pakistani government strong enough to retake control? Is Pakistan's nuclear arsenal vulnerable? Will their military use the developments as a pretext to stage another coup? And what does the new fighting mean for the people forced to flee? Is there any hope for good government and peace in the region? Start the discussion on our blog.

Stay Informed: The Official YP Blog
Facebook: Become our Friend!

Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.

Trivia Night: 5/11 @ 6:30pm Luckylab NW

Join the World Affairs Council, Young Professionals on Monday, May 11th @ 6:30pm - Lucky Labrador NW for Trivia Night Do you know which European city has the largest Muslim population?   Or what is the longest river in Oceania?  Which famous German politician changed his name from Herbert Ernst Frahm?  Or the name of Lebanon's most famous salad?   Bring your friends, or come alone (we will place you on a team). Trivia Night is a fun opportunity to acquaint and socialize with fellow Portlanders who share your zest for all things international! Spaces are limited so please RSVP!    Event Information: Monday, May 11 6:30 pm to 8:30 p.m. Location: Lucky Labrador Beer Hall 1945 NW Quimby Portland, OR 97209

MercyCorps Special Invite: Visit Africa From Your Home

Greetings!

I want to personally invite you to an exciting opportunity to hear from our Board Chair Linda Mason, who recently visited our programs in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Jenny Vaughan, Head of Office in Central African Republic.

This special Mercy Corps conference call and online presentation will be held on Wednesday, May 13 (details below). Our speakers will be discussing some of Mercy Corps' recent work to fight poverty in Africa through investing in women. We're helping women to not only feed their families now - but to change their communities for the long term, despite lack of access to clean water, persistent health problems, and ongoing conflict such as the violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The presentation will be followed by a live Q&A session.

I hope that you are able to join us!

Best,

Minda Seibert, Mercy Corps Community Relations Officer
-------------------

Fight Poverty. Empower Women.
The Way Forward in Africa
A Special Mercy Corps Conference Call

Wednesday, May 13
5:30 p.m. PST / 8:30 p.m. EST
Call toll-free 1-800-761-5415 to join the call.

Join Board Chair Linda Mason, recently returned from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Jenny Vaughan, Head of Office, Central African Republic, to hear stories of the extraordinary women and communities you are helping in Africa, through your support of Mercy Corps.

Please click here to register for this event. It's easy and you'll also receive instructions for accessing the visual presentation online.

If you have any questions, or if you are unable to join the call, but would like to access a recording of the call, please contact Minda Seibert at mseibert@mercycorps.org or reply to this email.

___________________________________________

Minda Seibert
Mercy Corps
Community Relations Officer
3015 SW First Avenue
Portland, OR 97201
(503) 595-8005
800-292-3355 ext.405
mseibert@mercycorps.org

Mercy Corps helps people in the world's toughest places turn the crises of natural disaster, poverty, and conflict into opportunities for progress. Driven by local needs and market conditions, our programs provide communities with the tools and support they need to transform their own lives. Our worldwide team of 3,700 professionals is improving the lives of 14.5 million people in 37 countries. For more information, visit www.mercycorps.org.

If you are interested in attending a Mercy Corps event or fundraiser, check out www.mercycorps.org/events to see if there is an event in your area. If you are organizing an event, let me know so it can be posted.

Check out how a benefit concert that brought together four bands made up of teenagers from Portland area high schools, and hundreds of local youth raised over $6,000 for Mercy Corps' worldwide children's programs.

This email was delivered to you by Minda H. Seibert of Mercy Corps. You can take your email address off Minda H. Seibert of Mercy Corps' email list, or update your preferences and/or send comments to Minda H. Seibert of Mercy Corps. If you request to be taken off Minda H. Seibert of Mercy Corps' email list, Minda H. Seibert of Mercy Corps will honor your request. Postal address: 3015 SW First Ave., Portland, OR 97201

The Dark Side of Dubai

After an excellent presentation on Dubai by a fellow YP'er Michelle Diamond, I came across a very interesting and compelling article that appeared in early April in The Independent on the current state of affairs in Dubai.  Here is a link. For those who are interested in the daily lives of ex-pats, there is a link to a blog maintained by an Independent-affiliated writer. 

Cinco De Mayo Fiesta 5/1-5/4

The Cinco de Mayo Fiesta is a Five-day celebration that attracts 300,000 people to Waterfront Park each year. The Fiesta brings to Portland and all Oregonians the beautiful colors, cuisine, arts, music and folklore of Mexico and specifically, Guadalajara, Portland's sister city.   More info at: http://www.cincodemayo.org/

YP DISCUSSION: DISEASES WITHOUT BORDERS

Diseases Without Borders (YP Discussion Group) The World Affairs Council, Young Professionals invite you to our biweekly discussion group: Wednesday, 29 April 2009 | 7:00 p.m. Laurelwood NW Public House, NW Kearney & 23rd (MAP) (Upstairs in the back room.) Germs don't respect national borders. Swine flu, Bird flu, West Nile virus, and SARS have caused global scares. Is the world health community doing what is necessary to control these diseases? Is it too late once they've made the news? Is there anything we can do to stop them before they start? For example, is global warmingto blame? What about modern food production and trade? Or is it simply a consequence of a more interconnected world? Start the discussion on our blog. Stay Informed: The Official YP Blog Facebook: Become our Friend! Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.

Spring Trivia Night - May 11th

Young Professionals     Spring  Trivia Night      YP Social Event Monday, May 11th - 7:00 p.m.  at Lucky Labrador Beer Hall     Do you know which European city has the largest Muslim population?   Or what is the longest river in Oceania?  Which famous German politician changed his name from Herbert Ernst Frahm?  Or the name of Lebanon's most famous salad?   International Trivia Night - Eat, Drink & Win Prizes!   Bring your friends, or come alone (we will place you on a team). Trivia Night is a fun opportunity to acquaint and socialize with fellow Portlanders who share your zest for all things international! Spaces are limited so please RSVP!    Event Information: Monday, May 11 7:00 pm to 8:30 p.m.   Location: Lucky Labrador Beer Hall 1945 NW Quimby Portland, OR 97209