Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Brown Bag Lunch Briefing on International Trade and the Environment 4/14 Noon

Wednesday, April 14 * 12:00 noon
Sierra Club Office * 1821 SE Ankeny * Portland, OR

Join Rachel Ackoff of the national Sierra Club's "Labor, Workers' Rights & Trade Program" for a brown-bag lunch (please bring your own) briefing on the latest topics facing environmentalists regarding international trade policy. This includes background on:

* The opportunities and obstacles posed by the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a regional Pacific Rim trade agreement currently in negotiation by the Obama administration

* Efforts to address illegal logging and the unsustainable consumption of tropical woods through better enforcement of the Lacey Act

* The campaign to hold governments and corporations accountable for the management of natural resources through the Energy Security Through Transparency Act

* The promise of a new model for international trade embodied in pending legislation called the TRADE Act

Rachel's quick, informal briefing will include plenty of time for questions and discussion. Local "fair trade" activists will also be on hand to discuss ways to get involved in these and other issues at the local level. The briefing will wrap-up by 1:00 pm.

Background on the Sierra Club's trade program is available online at: http://www.sierraclub.org/trade/

http://orsierraclub.wordpress.com/2010/04/06/brown-bag-lunch-briefing-on-trade-the-environment/

Monday, April 12, 2010

Political Action in Asia (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 14 April 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St. (Map)

Huge crowds in Kyrgyzstan and Thailand are protesting what they claim to be unfair policies by their governments, while in Myanmar the ruling junta continues to wage war against minority groups. Is it possible for these governments to compromise before wider fighting occurs? How should the governments react to mass protests? More generally, in this part of the world where democratic reform is limited or nonexistent, can popular opposition force actual changes?

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Earth Day activities in PDX on 4/17

Earth day is on 4/22, but SOLV and other great local nonprofits have a bunch of 1/2 day volunteer opportunities available this Sat 4/17. Get involved in a global movement!

Check out: http://solv.org/volunteers/volunteer_calendar.asp#April

Most are from 9am - 1 pm, some offer free breakfast or lunch.

Rose

Thursday, April 08, 2010

Tears of Joy Theater - Malika, Queen of the Cats - openining night this Friday

Tears of Joy Theater is presenting Malika, Queen of the Cats, a Palestinian children's play about Sitti, a kind and generous old woman who helps a cat and is rewarded with great wealth by Malika. This folktale from Palestine teaches that kindness and generosity are values intrinsic to Middle Eastern Culture.

The Arab American Cultural Center of Oregon (AACCO) has limited seats available at a special discounted price for Malika. The tickets are $14.00 for children and $16.00 for adults for the Friday April 9, 2010 opening performance at 7:30 p.m. at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts. If April 9 does not work with your schedule, please review the other performance dates below as well as more information about Tears of Joy Theater.

AACCO, a co-sponsor of the play, is hosting a Palestinian exhibit and the P.S.U. Middle East Studies Center is hosting a free reception after the show on April 9.

For tickets, please email Hala Gores at Hala@goreslaw.com or call (503) 295-1940.

Tears of Joy Theatre presents
Malika, Queen of the Cats
by Nancy Aldrich


Friday, April 9th -
Sunday, April 18th
$18.75 adults/ $16.50 children (12 & under)

Tickets: The PCPA box office <http://www.pcpa.com/tickets/boxoffice.php> , Ticketmaster <http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/123086/?brand=pcpa>

Tears of Joy Theatre is nationally recognized for its commitment to excellence and innovation in puppetry. A resident company of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts, Tears of Joy is a three-time recipient of American Puppetry's highest honor, the citation of Excellence in the Art of Puppetry. Tears of Joy touring performers entertain and inspire more than 200,000 people annually in theatres, community centers, festivals and schools throughout the US and abroad. Please visit www.tojt.com <http://www.tojt.com/> for more information.
__,_._,___

Monday, April 05, 2010

Israeli Krav Maga Women's Self Defense Seminar April 17

Did you know that April is a Sexual Assault Awareness Month?  To mark it, Krav Maga Worldwide Official Training Centers across the globe are offering self defense seminars for women as a service to the community.  I attended a 3-hour seminar last Saturday, and can attest that this may be the best $40 I spent for a three hour hard-core training/workout.  I have several serious bruises to show for it, but the training was well worth it.  The trainers (current law enforcement folks who are also Krav Maga instructors) are great and encouraging, the information and techniques they share are easy to remember and follow, and you never know when it will save your life.

So what’s the international connection, you may ask?  Well, the technique being taught is Krav Maga, which is a self-defense technique used by the Israeli military forces and which is widely used by the police departments in the US, including Oregon.  Tenuous, you may say.  Well, yes, probably.  But if it’s good enough for the Israeli Defense Forces, it’s good enough for me. 

See announcement below for more information and how to register. 

Natalia

_________________________

Nationally certified self-defense instructors and defensive tactics experts will be available to answer questions and give advice to the general public on how to prevent and survive a violent encounter! 

Milwaukie ,  OR - On April 17, 2010, the  Krav  Maga  Worldwide  Official  Training  Center in Milwaukie, OR will be offering all women ages 16 and older a 3-hour self-defense seminar. This event will be held from 1:00-4:00 PM at Krav Maga Self Defense & Fitness,  5484 SE International Way ,  Milwaukie , OR  97222 . Krav Maga Self Defense & Fitness, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, and Canby Police Dept. will sponsor it.

Each of the sponsoring law enforcement agencies will provide defensive tactics instructors trained in playing the role of attacker and the use of specially designed padded assailant suits. The seminar participants will be able to practice the self defense techniques taught in a realistic manner, utilizing full force strikes and kicks against the padded assailants.

Although participants do not need any previous self defense or martial arts training to participate, the seminars will be very physical, and participants should be at least moderately fit to get the most out of the seminar. However, women who are pregnant, for example, or injured, or in some other way limited in the ability to physically exert themselves are welcome to attend and sit out during any of the physical exercises and fights vs. padded assailants if they deem them too strenuous to perform safely. Even though a person may not be able to fully participate, they will benefit greatly by attending and participating at whatever level they are able to. Please view video highlights of last year's seminars at http://kravmagaport land.com/ RapePreventionSe minarVideo. html  to get a better idea of what the seminars are like.

The cost will be $40. The proceeds of the event will be donated to Clackamas Women’s Services (http://www.cwsor. org). Since 1985, Clackamas Women's Services has been the only non-profit organization in  Clackamas  County dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence against women and children. CWS has safely harbored over 7,000 women & children within their two shelters.

Participants may register and pay online using secure Google checkout at http://kravmagaport land.com/ RapePreventionSi gnUp.html. 

Krav Maga (pronounced krahv muh-GAH) is the official self-defense system for the men and women of the Israeli Defense Forces, and is required training for scores of law enforcement agencies in the United States, including the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and Canby Police Dept.

Krav Maga is recognized as the most efficient self defense system for real-life situations, emphasizing practical defenses against real attacks. Thousands of civilians nationwide, and many celebrities on the screens in  Hollywood now embrace the system.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, more than 2.5 million women experience violence annually. Statistics also show that every 90 seconds a woman is raped in  America.

The greater  Portland area needs community involvement and support. We must recognize that rape is a crime of violence, and its occurrence is never the fault of the victim. Everyone must work together to raise awareness and promote strong, alert, confident and healthy attitudes and defensive skills to end  America ’s sexual assault epidemic. Krav Maga Self Defense & Fitness will make this training available to all women in the community who wish to possess the skills needed to prevent or survive a violent assault.

Ms. Renee Jenkins, a certified Krav Maga Worldwide Instructor and women’s self defense expert will be conducting this empowering course. Ms. Jenkins has trained hundreds of students in the  Portland area. Every week, she teaches women and men how to protect themselves and stay safe using Krav Maga.

Learning self-defense is not just learning to kick and punch an attacker. Self-defense begins with an attitude of: “I will not be a victim!” Attackers choose their victims the way predators choose their prey. Predators always go after the weak, isolated, young or old because they are an easy target. If you appear strong, alert and healthy, you have a much better chance of avoiding an attack. Krav Maga instructor Renee Jenkins empowers women with the self-confidence and skills required to AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM.

Participants may register and pay online using secure Google checkout at http://kravmagaport land.com/ RapePreventionSi gnUp.html.

Please help spread the word about our seminars. Invite everyone you know who may be interested. You can download a seminar flyer at http://kravmagaport land.com/ RapePreventionSe minars2010. pdf. Please print and post it wherever you can and email it to friends. We also have high quality color printed flyers available at our school at  5484 SE International Way in  Milwaukie . Please feel free to take some anytime during class hours and post them wherever you can.

 

Friday, April 02, 2010

Portland ranks a lowly No. 40 for young professionals

This article does not have an international angle, but thought it was interesting to share about being a young professional and living and working in PDX.
 

Sunday, March 28, 2010

International Gay Rights (YP Discussion Group)

International Gay Rights (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 31 March 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St. (Map)
(Back to Regular Location)

Policies and protections for the LGBT community vary widely by country and within regions. Recently, headlines out of Malawi and Uganda have been shocking, but have been countered by increased openness and acceptance in China and Mexico. Neighboring countries sometimes have radically different policies toward LGBTs, and
there seems to be little correlation between religion or level of development. In some places,the position of LGBTs are codified while other places leave it informal.

What are the factors that contribute to acceptanceor rejection of the LGBT community? Is this a
case of having a minority group that can be designated an internal enemy to consolidate political support? Is greater acceptance inevitable? What role can the US play, considering the controversy the issue causes
domestically?

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Podcast on the history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict

Here is a link to a very good podcast recorded at the Washington College at American University last month discussing the historical underpinnings of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.  Generally speaking, the Washington College of Law has some pretty amazing podcasts dealing with issues of international public and human rights law.  You can subscribe to it through iTunes.

http://www.wcl.american.edu/podcast/podcast.cfm?uri=http://www.wcl.american.edu/podcast/audio/20100223_WCL_WHM.mp3&email

Friday, March 19, 2010

Democratic Republic of Congo event

A great opportunity to learn about this part of Africa from somewhere else besides the US press!

Understanding Our World:
The War in the RDC


Rosie Musauet and Leontine Mwanga grew up in the République Démocratique du Congo, which is the 4th most populous country in Africa and the most populous country in the world where French is spoken. Rosie was a hospital administrator and RDC Leontine was a parliamentary member in an earlier administration in that country. Leontine is currently the president of the group, les Femmes Congolaises in Portland. The two women will present on Friday, April 2, 5:00-6:15 p.m. at the Alliance Française, on the history of their country and the ravages of 13 years of war. This presentation will be in French and is free; reservations are required so that we know how many people to expect.

Contact the Alliance Francaise to reserve a seat:
Alliance Française de Portland 503.223.8388 | 1425 SW 20th Ave., Suite 102 |
Portland | OR | 97201

Monday, March 15, 2010

Open Discussion (YP Discussion Group)

Open Discussion (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 17 March 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Lucky Labrador Brew Pub
915 SE Hawthorne Blvd. (Map)
(ONE WEEK LOCATION CHANGE)

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, this group meeting will be a spirited discussion over drinks. Come with any topic that interests you for a night of casual conversation. Bonus points for topics that incorporate Ireland or issues affecting the international Irish diaspora.

*Please note the temporary venue change. On March 31st, we will return to our regular semi-structured meeting format at Madison's Grill.

China's No. 1 Heartthrob Blogger and Government Critic

Be sure to check out The New York Times' excellent Saturday profile of Asian cultural icon Han Han.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Tibet Awareness Day in Portland

Despite a week of opposition from the Chinese Consulate in San Francisco and local China-related interests, today is Tibet Awareness Day in Portland.

City Commissioner Randy Leonard is the person most responsible for making it happen.

Check out a schedule of events here, including a Tibetan Film Festival this weekend at Bagdad Theater.

Sunday, February 28, 2010

China's Trajectory (YP Discussion Group)

China's Trajectory (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 3 March 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St. (Map)
(NEW LOCATION)

Every American President since Nixon has claimed that the opening of the Chinese economy will eventually lead to democratic reforms. It is clear that the Chinese leadership is primarily concerned with prolonging their own rule, and thus far, has been able to use the economic growth to justify their position. As China's power and influence grows, will the leadership be able to create a new market system with fewer civil liberties, or are they merely delaying the inevitable demands for democratic reform?

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

JOIN GLOBAL SISTERGOODS IN A CONVERSATION WITH IRENE TINKER

Celebrate International Women's Day this year with one of the foremost leaders in Women in Development research, Irene Tinker (www.irenetinker.com)

Global Sistergoods will be hosting a happy hour with a full Mediterranean buffet, networking and lecture at
The James John Cafe,
8527 N Lombard St
Portland, OR 97203
(503) 285-4930

Saturday, March 6
4pm-6:30 pm

Drinks, networking and food 4-5, lecture 5-6

Cost: $20 includes full Mediterranean buffet, wine and a door prize ticket.

Please RSVP to info@globalsistergoods.com or 503-285-6780

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Come see a PIFF movie with us this Sunday!

Young Professionals have a bloc of tickets for the Sunday afternoon showing of acclaimed French director Catherine Breillat's Bluebeard.  Join us at Broadway Cinemas for this stylized retelling of the classic, gothic fairy tale and then step across the street for a post-film happy hour at the Heathman.

 

 

In this retelling of the tale of the wife-killing Bluebeard, Breillat reminds us all that the best fairytales are dark around the edges. The film intercuts between the stories of two pairs of sisters. The first is set in the 1950s and features a young girl who loves torturing her older sister with dramatic readings of the story of Bluebeard. In the second, set during the Renaissance, a young girl becomes engaged to Lord Bluebeard, despite the suspicious disappearances of his previous wives.


Sunday, February 21st. Please arrive by 2:30 for the 3:00 show

 

Regal Broadway Cinemas 1000 SW Broadway at Main St.
We will be waiting at the door from 2:30 to 2:50 with a bloc of tickets: $9 each

 

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Country Driving

Peter Hessler's new book, Country Driving: A Journey Through China from Farm to Factory, came out this week. When I moved to China in 2006, I brought his first book River Town with me. To this day, I think that River Town captures the feeling of life in modern China better than anything I have come across. His follow-up work Oracle Bones is also essential reading for Sinophiles. Hessler is currently the Beijing correspondent for The New Yorker and guest edited a special National Geographic devoted to China in 2009. No one writing in English today comes close to Hessler's insight and knack for finding interesting and informative stories.

La Blogotheque

The French website La Blogotheque has an ongoing series called "Les Concerts a Emporter" that shows cool bands from all over the world performing in intimate settings. The basic premise involves one of the sites videographers (armed with a digital camera) meeting the band, and finding a place to perform. Featured bands have included Efterklang, The Arcade Fire, Phoenix, Josh Rouse, Malajube, and many more. The site also features a handy "English Translation" for those who do not parle francaise.

YP Trivia 2/17

Do you know the inspiration for Shakespeare's Sonnets?  Mother Teresa's birthplace?  The significance of the Peace of Westphalia? 

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!

RSVP by donating a minimum of $5.00 to Mercy Corps through the Young Professionals- Mercy Corps fundraising page.  Trees Restaurant will generously donate 5% of bar sales from Trivia Night to Mercy Corps for Haiti earthquake relief efforts.
 
Wednesday, February 17th 6:30pm | Trees Restaurant, 1211 SW 5th

Spielberg's Munich in real life

Fascinating case of an international assassination is unraveling in Dubai.  A group of 11 individuals holding European passports engaged in a clandestine operation in Dubai and killed Mahmoud al-Mabhouh, a senior member of Hamas.  For anyone who watched Steven Spielberg's Munich featuring Eric Bana, this may be reminiscent of the movie (based on true story) where Israel sent out Mossad operatives around the world to assassinate various leaders of PLO and Hamas to avenge the killing of Israeli athletes during the Munich Olympics in 1972.

In this case, Israel "has not commented officially on Mabhouh's death, in line with a long-standing policy neither to confirm nor deny responsibility for attacks on targets abroad." Besides Mossad, who else would be a suspect in this attack?

For the FT article on the case, follow the link: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/d8be100e-1a9a-11df-bef7-00144feab49a.html?nclick_check=1

Friday, February 12, 2010

Chinese New Year: Year of the Tiger is February 14.

The first day of the new moon is the Chinese New Year celebrated throughout Asia.  Each year is represented by one of 12 animals.  This year is the Year of the Tiger, as were 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, and 1998.  People born in the Year of the Tiger are unpredictable and emotional, caring, thoughtful, fascinating, commanding, and exasperating.  Tigers have a lot to say on righting society's wrongs, and fiercely defend friends and families from all enemies.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

"Reluctant German leaders now find themselves forced to help Greece"

"As the largest European economy with the most fiscal flexibility, Germany is crucial to any euro zone effort to save Greece."

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Celebrate Vancouver Olympics this Friday

On Friday, February 12, 2010, the Oregon Sports Authority is hosting a viewing of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games Opening Ceremony at Portland’s Pioneer Square. The spirit of the Olympics will extend from one Northwest city to another as the square is transformed into the ultimate living room setting for winter sports enthusiasts, complete with two giant LCD screens, interviews with Oregon Olympians, live music, warm drinks and a hockey goal-scoring challenge.

Local Olympic programming on KGW NewsChannel 8 will begin at 5:00 p.m. on the big screens at Pioneer Square, followed by a live event program from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring introductions of Oregon Olympians and Paralympians, and several exciting prize giveaways.  Governor Kulongoski is scheduled to attend. 

NBC’s broadcast of the Vancouver 2010 Opening Ceremony will begin at approximately 9:00 p.m.

 

 

Tuesday, February 02, 2010

YP Trivia Night: February 17 to benefit Mercy Corps

Special Haiti Benefit Trivia Night!




Are you an expert on the topics of peace, love, and humanitarianism?  Do you know the inspiration for Shakespeare's Sonnets?  Mother Teresa's birthplace?  The significance of the Peace of Westphalia?  If so, join us for a special Humanitarian Trivia Night to benefit the people of Haiti.

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!


RSVP with the Young Professionals by donating a minimum of $5.00 to Mercy Corps through the Young Professionals- Mercy Corps fundraising page.  Trees Restaurant will generously donate 5% of bar sales from Trivia Night to Mercy Corps for Haiti earthquake relief efforts.



To register YOU MUST enter your name and the name of your guests (separated by comma) in the comments box upon donating.  Spaces are limited, so
RSVP and donate now!

Wednesday, February 17th 6:30pm | Trees Restaurant, 1211 SW 5th

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Kronos Quartet

Monday, 1 February 2010 7:30 p.m

Kaul Auditorium (Reed College), Portland

The most distinguished new-music ensemble of our times, Kronos engages audiences world-wide, blazing new paths in contemporary music, world music, and multi-media presentations.

For more than 30 years, the Kronos Quartet - David Harrington, John Sherba (violins), Hank Dutt (viola) and Jeffrey Zeigler (cello) - has pursued a singular artistic vision, combining a spirit of fearless exploration with a commitment to expanding the range and context of the string quartet. In the process, Kronos has become one of the most celebrated and influential groups of our time, performing thousands of concerts worldwide, releasing more than 40 recordings of extraordinary breadth and creativity, collaborating with many of the world's most eclectic composers and performers, and commissioning hundreds of works and arrangements for string quartet. Kronos' work has also garnered numerous awards, including a Grammy for Best Chamber Music Performance (2004) and "Musicians of the Year" (2003) from Musical America.

For more information about Friends of Chamber Music, and to listen to music samples from the Kronos Quartet: www.focm.org

Friends of Chamber Music has generously offered a special discount for World Affairs Council members and partners.

To purchase tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0F0042B5DE9B688A?artistid=739453&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=4

Please enter kronos in the 'promotions and special offers' box. For any questions, please call Friends of Chamber Music at 503.224.9842

Nuclear Iran (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 3 February 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St. (Map)
(NEW LOCATION)

Iran continues to assert its right to pursue a domestic nuclear program. While Israel has kept alive the threat of a military strike against nuclear facilities, it seems unlikely that they have the ability to cause major setbacks to the program. With China and Russia avoiding harsh sanctions, and the US struggles in Iraq and Afghanistan, does the world community have the ability to force Iran to end the program? If Iran does create nuclear weapons, what are the consequences? Does the US have an obligation to stop Iran at all costs?

Monday, January 25, 2010

Short Term Volunteers Needed!

The Portland organization, Ushahidi, is receiving massive quantities of raw data in the form of text messages. We have an SMS short code (a short number to which people can send texts, analogous to 911 or 411 on telephones), which has been distributed via radio, cell phone service providers, and other media sources across Haiti. Haitians can send texts to this short code if they are hurt, in danger, need food or water, or for any other request for help. Once Ushahidi receives an SMS, we have a dedicated team of volunteers who use Google Earth and other mapping programs to pinpoint their exact location so that emergency responders and humanitarian workers can reach them. As you can imagine, many Haitians are taking advantage of this lifeline, and we are attempting to process thousands of text messages a day. We have an urgent need for people who can help us pinpoint locations.

As I said in my earlier email, I can train all volunteers, and we have an extensive support network set up to connect them to the rest of Ushahidi. This is what I'm looking for: 10-15 people who are tech-friendly (none of the programs we are using are complicated, but there are several of them) and willing to devote a couple of hours in the evening a couple of times a week. If you are still maintaining the Young Professionals network, I think this might be a project some of them would find interesting and rewarding. In addition, they will be working on the very cutting edge of humanitarian response to disasters, using a system no one has ever been able to apply successfully before this.

If you are willing to pass this on to the Young Professionals, or to Council volunteers who you think might be interested, I would be incredibly grateful. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions at all. Thank you!

Beka Feathers
Please email jon@worldoregon.org if you are interested

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Obama's First Year (YP Discussion Group)

Obama's First Year (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 20 January 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St. (Map)
(NEW LOCATION)


This week marks the first anniversary of President Obama's inauguration. During the campaign, much was made of his promise to break from the foreign policy objectives of President Bush. How meaningful has the change been? Has President Obama followed up on the promises made by Candidate Obama? Is there a clear, coherent Obama Doctrine? Based on the last 12 months, what do we expect for the next three years? Start the discussion on our blog.

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

Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Please Donate to Haiti Relief Effort

Please consider donating to one of the many organizations leading the relief effort in Haiti.  If you'd like to help but don't know where to start, consider giving to the Mangrove Fund.  The Mangrove Fund, a local non-profit, was established in 2007 in order to help existing organizations and people who provide sustainable assistance and support to impoverished Haitian communities.  Visit www.mangrovefund.org for more details. 

Below is a call-to-action from Bill Pierznik, Mangrove's co-founder and president:

"EMERGENCY CALL FOR HELP!   The 7.0 earthquake is only the most recent of a string of calamities to strike Haiti.  However it is by far the most devastating.  We at Mangrove will provide our full support to the rescue efforts currently being launched.  We will be funding several organizations who will be directly involved on the ground, including Vwa Ayiti.  100% of the monies we receive during this campaign will be sent directly to organizations leading the relief effort.  All donations are tax deductible and we audit every dollar we send to other organizations.  This is the worst catastrophe in Haiti's history.  More than 3 million people will be affected.  PLEASE HELP US BY DONATING NOW!  Every little bit helps."



Thursday, January 07, 2010

Japanese American New Year celebration on 1/31 - $12 adults

Mochitsuki will welcome the Year of the Tiger with the 14th annual Japanese American New Year celebration in a new location in downtown Portland. Located at SW 15th and Morrison along the MAX line, the Scottish Rite Center features a beautiful theater and ballroom in a historic Portland building. At 1:30 PM, there will be a single Mochitsuki Stage Show in the theater. There will be storytelling by favorite Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo and Japanese dance by the Sahomi Tachibana Dancers and Fujinami-kai. Celebrate with the taiko drums of Portland Taiko, Tanuki Taiko and Takohachi Taiko, along with lively mochi pounding by Utsuki-kai to welcome the new year with a traditional gathering of the community.

Tickets for the 1:30 PM Mochitsuki Stage Show are $12 for adults, $9 for students and seniors (62 and older), and $5 for children (under 12). Children under 2 are free.

Doors open from noon to 4 PM for the Cultural Fair throughout the rest of the Scottish Rite Center. Dozens of community organizations will provide hands-on activities and displays in the Cultural Fair, and community performers will enliven the Community Stage. There will be an opportunity to try pounding mochi with a wooden mallet and to sample the sticky rice cakes made in contemporary mochi machines. Gathering with friends and family to make and eat mochi is an auspicious start to the year.

Tickets to the stage show include admission to the Cultural Fair. Otherwise, the suggested donation is $4 for individuals, $2 for children or $10 per family to participate in the Cultural Fair.

Tickets are available online through Box Office Tickets at http://pdxtix.net/mochitsuki or at their walk-up location at the Hollywood Theater at 4122 SE Sandy Blvd from 1 PM to 9 PM. Tickets are also available at the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center, 121 NW Second Avenue in Old Town, (503) 224-1458.

Please contact us at info@mochitsuki.org for detailed information about wheelchair access to the event or any other questions.

Mochitsuki 2010 is sponsored by Japanese American Citizens League Portland Chapter, Konko Church of Portland, Oregon Nikkei Endowment and Portland Taiko. We are generously supported by the Japanese Ancestral Society and the Consulate General of Japan in Portland.


Tuesday, January 05, 2010

International Speaker Series (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 6 January 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

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

The World Affairs Council has announced the speakers for the International Speaker Series for 2010. It's an exciting line up. Two political heavy weights (Howard Dean and Karl Rove), a Nobel-Prize winning economist (Joseph Stiglitz), the former president of perhaps the most important country at the front lines of the war on terrorism (Pervez Musharraf), and an expert on global environmental issues (Dr. Jane Lubchenco). Which of these speakers interests you the most? What questions would you like to ask them when they come to Portland? What do you expect them to say?

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

Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.

YP Event: NGOs and Civic Activism

Join fellow Young Professionals for drinks with civic activists from 25 countries!

This January we are thrilled to welcome 25 international activists here to share and learn about organizations championing social and political issues. This is an extraordinary opportunity to share your thoughts and experiences with directors of NGO's, heads of institutions, managers and leaders serving communities across four continents. Visit our website to read more about the visitors and register to attend. http://worldoregon.org/events/registration/yp_civic_activists.html

Light appetizers and a no-host bar will be provided.

Date and Time: Tuesday, January 19th, 2010, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Location:

Al-Amir Restaurant,
223 Southwest Stark Street,
Portland, OR 97204

Cost:

$7 WAC members
$10 Non-members

Thursday, December 31, 2009

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

Monday, December 07, 2009

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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Thursday, December 03, 2009

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

Monday, November 30, 2009

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

Friday, November 20, 2009

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

Thursday, November 19, 2009

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

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
 

Friday, November 13, 2009

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/

 

 

 


Tuesday, November 10, 2009

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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Friday, October 23, 2009

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

Thursday, October 22, 2009

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/

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

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

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

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.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

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.

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

Friday, October 09, 2009

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.

Thursday, October 01, 2009

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.

Monday, September 28, 2009

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?

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

Thursday, September 17, 2009

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

Monday, September 14, 2009

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!

Stay Informed: The Official YP Blog
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Stand Up and Take Action

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

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?

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

Submit your discussion topic ideas for future meetings.