10 HOSTS STILL NEEDED JULY 15 – AUGUST 3 FOR UKRAINIAN VISITORS!

Be a citizen diplomat! The Council is seeking host families for a Russian speaking Ukrainian Community Connections group coming to Portland in July for a program on Alternative Energy Development and Promotion. Portland hosting dates are July 15- August 3 (minus 2-3 nights during this time period while the group is in Eastern Oregon). Host families are integral to the success of our professional exchange programs and act as the key representatives of American culture to these visitors!

To be a part of this unforgettable experience contact Andrew Neal at (503) 306-5252 or andrew@worldoregon.org or Mariko Gilman at (503) 306-5295 or mariko@worldoregon.org for more information.

Biographical information about the individual delegates can be found at: http://www.worldoregon.org/visitors/cgroup.php

World Bank Young Professionals program: deadline to apply 06/30

I came across this really amazing- looking Young Professionals Program at the World Bank.  Masters degree is a requisite, and the application process seems pretty stringent, but for the right applicant with the credentials, this may be a great opportunity to break into the international development market.  As a young professional, you have to be under 32 by September of 2011.  Deadline to apply is June 30, 2010. 

Distant Interiors: Three Works by Kamal Aljafari
Beyond Borders Program VII: Palestine | Pan Asian Series
Supported in part by a grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council
JUNE 15 + 16 [6:45PM]
Cinema Project @ Clinton Street Theatre | 2552 SE Clinton St.

Cinema Project's Pan Asian series of visiting artists is rounded out this season with Palestinian-born independent filmmaker Kamal Aljafari. Through his witty, restrained, and personal documentary style, Aljafari examines varying definitions of home and place in the Middle East. In pieces like The Roof and Port of Memory the focus is primarily on the veritable ghost-town of Jaffa that in pre-1948 Palestine was a thriving urban and economic port-city. These works demonstrate Aljafari's thoughtful but not overly formal compositions of half-inhabited houses and damaged neighborhoods, which reveal the strained co-existence of past and present and the complicated layers of history that help construct (physically and psychologically) such places.

Curator Jean-Pierre Rehm has called The Roof "as much a stylistic as a political manifesto." With an approach recalling the suspended action of other international cineastes like Taiwanese Tsai-Ming Liang, Aljafari brings something less mysterious but more palpable to his coded landscapes and personal portraits.
Artist-in-Attendance

TUESDAY JUNE 15TH
Port of Memory [2009, 35mm, color, sound, 63 min.]
WEDNESDAY JUNE 16TH
The Roof [2006, video, color, sound, 61 min.]
Visit Iraq [2003, 35mm, color, sound, 26 min.]

Watch the World Cup with the Young Professionals

The world turns its attention to the Beautiful Game on June 11th when
the World Cup starts in South Africa. While we would love a ticket to
Cape Town, we are fortunate enough to live in a city with so many
soccer fans and venues. Join us to watch the largest sporting event in
the world!

First up, the Mexico v. South Africa match, June 11th. We will meet at
Pizza Italia (1129 NW Johnson St.) for the game at 7 am. They have a
$10 breakfast buffet and a passionate crowd of futbol fans.

We hope to gather for games throughout the month-long competition.
Watch this space for announcements, or organize yourselves and watch
your favorite teams advance. For a list of Portland venues showing the
games see www.portlandsoccerbars.com, then add your game/venue to the
comment section.

Turmoil in Zimbabwe (YP Discussion Group)

Turmoil in Zimbabwe (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 9 June 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

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

In less than 30 years, Zimbabwe has gone from a promising, newly-independent state to an unqualified disaster. Political strife, hyper-inflation, drought, and an AIDS epidemic have all contributed to a plummeting life expectancy. Despite the fact that overt violence is still minimal, does the scale of the humanitarian crisis require action from Western government? Is there hope for the people of Zimbabwe in the near future?

An Evening with Zimbabwe Artists Project

Thursday, June 10, 2010

6:00-8:00pm - discussion at 6:45pm

Join fellow World Affairs Council members in learning how Zimbabwe Artists Project aims to "make human connections through art." Founder and Executive Director Dick Adams will share stories from his most recent trip to Zimbabwe. This is an opportunity to hear his inspirational anecdotes about the women of Weya, and his organization's efforts in supporting these women in rural Zimbabwe to become economically self sufficient.

Also, Be the first to hear exciting news from Zimbabwe Artists Project and World Affairs Council.

Read More and Register

PDX International Vision: an evening with the Director of the Office of International Relations for the City of Portland

Noah Siegel: Director of International Relations for the City of Portland

Did you know that the City of Portland has an Office of International Relations? What are the Mayor's international responsibilities?

Recently, the Mayor has focused on economic development as an important part of Portland's international engagement. To that extent, Noah Siegel, the Director of International Relations, has been tasked with developing international strategies for the city. In addition to overseeing Portland's nine sister city relationships, and other cultural and educational activities, Mr. Siegel coordinates the city's international trade and investment efforts, working closely with partners at the PDC and the State of Oregon.

Before joining the Mayor's Office, Noah Siegel served as a political and economic officer at the U.S. Foreign Service. With a focus on the Middle East, Mr. Siegel served tours in Yemen and Israel, and worked at the State Department in Washington, D.C. His specific areas of expertise included international banking, economic development, and democratic reform. Mr. Siegel speaks fluent French, Hebrew and Arabic.

Having been in the position for almost a year, what are the successes and challenges encountered by the City in developing its international footprint? What are the goals of the International Relations Office? Is Portland large/ significant enough to have an international strategy?

Date and time:  Wednesday, June 2, at 5:30 p.m.

Location: City Hall, 1221 SW Fourth Avenue, Rose Room, Portland, Oregon

Cost:  $5 WAC members; $7 non-members

Registration number is limited to 30, so sign up today!

http://worldoregon.org/events/registration/yp_international_pdx.php

 

The Greek Economy and European Sovereignty (YP Discussion Group)

The Greek Economy and European Sovereignty (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 26 May 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

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

Greece's mistakes have played a large part in its current economic meltdown, but options for addressing the problems have been severely limited by membership in the EU and other outside forces. In this instance, is a bailout the correct response, or would a more traditional default be appropriate? What are the consequences for the other troubled European economies? If Germany is expected to lead the bailout effort, will they demand more control over the budgets of the other EU countries in the future?

UN Wire Job Board site

Click here to see the UN Wire Job Board; there are also other industries listed on this SmartBrief Job posting site. Rose

Doing Business in China; A Role for Oregon Companies

Thursday, May 20, 7:00 PM

As the recent reshuffle of global finance and the changes it will bring to business come more into focus, there is little doubt that trade between US and China will continue to shape the political and economic landscape. Oregon is poised, both geographically and strategically, to play an important role in this relationship. What does trade with China mean for the economy of Oregon? What does Oregon investment in China mean on the ground? The event is a panel discussion followed by Q&A- this is a wonderful opportunity to hear about a very relevant topic from local experts:

Professor Rossitza Wooster, Portland State University, Department of Economics

Marian Hammond, State of Oregon

Akana Ma, Ater Wynne

Karl Mundorff, Bio-Reaction Industries

Read More and Register

Building Social Business

Saturday, May 22, 2:00 PM

Muhammad Yunus
Founder, the Grameen Bank

When he founded the Grameen Bank in 1984, Muhammad Yunus challenged the conventional banking principles of credit worthiness and collateral. He showed that providing micro credit to poor women in the rural villages of Bangladesh was good for the bank and for the communities served. Now Yunus is suggesting a similar revolutionary take on capitalism — demonstrating that businesses that strive to serve humanity, rather than maximizing share holder value, can be profitable. He sees in the current financial crisis, the opportunity to show that social business may reveal the real promise of free-market enterprise.

Read More and Register

How a changing media landscape is shifting our view of the world

Wednesday, May 19th 12:00 to 1:30 PM
Talk begins at 12:30 PM

Michael Mosettig
Senior Producer, The PBS Newshour

While many traditional news organizations (newspapers, magazines, and broadcast television) have significantly cut the number of their internationally based correspondents, non-traditional news media has grown exponentially. How has the changing media landscape affected what news is covered? How can we judge the credibility of the news? Has global information, social media and 'unfiltered' news had an impact on international policy making? Is it changing our perspective of the world?

Read More and Register

Building Haiti Back Better

Wednesday, May 26th, 12:00-1:30 PM

Robert Maguire, PhD

Trinity University, Washington D.C. and US Institute of Peace

The earthquake that devastated Haiti was both cosmic and deeply personal for Robert Maguire who lost many friends and colleagues. Yet, he now sees the massive challenge of rebuilding Haiti as a unique opportunity to address and reverse the terrible imbalances that underlie and perpetuate its deeply entrenched poverty.

Read More and Register

Chinese Development (YP Discussion Group)

Chinese Development (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 12 May 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

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

In the last 30 years, development in China has lifted more than 500 million people out of abject poverty. While incredible, this change has brought with it challenges for the Chinese and the rest of the world. The environmental impact of this development is massive and growing, and the Chinese Communist Party has not matched the growth with civic or political reform. The popular narrative in the US blames Chinese development for taking American jobs, and currency manipulation for artificially inflating their advantage. Does development in China justify the negative consequences? Should the US be doing more to protect domestic business?

Doing Business in China: A Role for Oregon Companies

Doing Business in China: A Role for Oregon Companies
Thur, May 20
7pm

Portland State University
Smith Student Union (1825 SW Broadway)
Room 236 (Cascade Room)

*Registration Required: http://www.worldoregon.org/events/registration/yp_china_panel.php

As the recent reshuffle of global finance and the changes it will bring to business come more into focus, there is little doubt that trade between US and China will continue to shape the political and economic landscape. Oregon is poised, both geographically and strategically, to play an important role in this relationship. What does trade with China mean for the economy of Oregon? What does Oregon investment in China mean on the ground? The event is a panel discussion followed by Q&A- this is a wonderful opportunity to hear about a very relevant topic from local experts:

Professor Rossitza Wooster, Portland State University, Department of Economics
Marian Hammond, State of Oregon
Akana Ma, Ater Wynne
Karl Mundorff, Bio-Reaction Industries

Portland's Cheers to Belgian Beers

Cheers to Belgian Beers
Saturday, May 1, noon - 9pm
Hopworks, upper parking lot
2944 SE Powell Blvd
Free; $5 for required tasting goblet, $1 pours

Cheers to Belgian Beers is a great beer event that features different styles of Belgian beer, brewed with the same strain of yeast. In the last four years, the festival has grown from a handful of Portland breweries to over 29 breweries from all over Oregon. The event is a competition, with the winner getting to host next year. The festival raises money for the a charity chosen by the host (this year is Parkinson's Resources of Oregon). This is a great opportunity to sample a variety of beers from a country with a long, rich brewing tradition and have a great time doing it.

Dining Out for Life--Dine Out. Fight AIDS on 4/29

Since AIDS is a global issue and this event is a worthy cause and cool idea, I thought I'd share this with you.   One of the many perks about living in Portland is getting to enjoy the amazing restaurants we are beginning to be known for around the country. This Thursday, April 29th, Portlanders can enjoy those restaurants while supporting the OHSU Partnership Project and Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon's HIV Day Center by taking part in Dining Out for Life. Dining Out for Life is a national event in its second year in Portland. On the day of the event participating restaurants will donate between 20%-30% of their food and beverage sales to the participating AIDS services organizations, EMO's HIV Day Center and OHSU Partnership Project.   Participating restaurants are: Bridges Cafe and Catering, Broder Cafe, Detour Cafe, Dingo's, Echo, Egyptian Club, Firehouse, Gilt Club, Gracie's Restaurant, Il Piato, Kir Wine Bar, Lauro Kitchen, Lincoln Restaurant, The Original, Por Que No (Hawthorne), Red Star Tavern, Rose and Thistle, Stickers Asian Cafe, SubRosa, and West Cafe. For more information go to www.diningoutforlife.com/portland. I have heard good things about Detour Cafe, Eco are good and Por Que No. Rose Grech

UK Election (YP Discussion Group)

UK Election (YP Discussion Group)

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

Wednesday, 28 April 2010 | 7:00 p.m.

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

May 6th will mark the end of a refreshingly short campaign season in the UK. No matter the outcome, the result will have major consequences for the UK, Europe, and the United States. If Labour loses, it will end a period of outward looking foreign policy and alter the "special relationship" with the US. A recent surge in support for the Liberal Democrats has made the possibility of a hung Parliament look increasingly likely, which could limit the ability of the next UK government to remain a global political leader. Who will win and what does it mean for the rest of the world?

Be Green While Traveling

Be Green While Traveling - Download a pdf guide representing a diverse array of knowledge and expertise that will help you, the traveler, make responsible travel choices. By choosing wisely, you can make positive contributions to conservation, communities and sustainable travel around the world, one eco-trip at a time. On this site, you can also sign up for e-newsletters, explore eco volunteer opportunities and more.

Interested in other cultures? Have a spare bedroom? Become a World Affairs Council International Visitor Host!

The World Affairs Council of Oregon is excited to welcome 5 Russian visitors through the Open World Program! This group will be in Oregon from Friday, May 21 through Saturday, May 29, 2010, on a program focusing on Accountable Governance and Women as Leaders with a Focus on Environmental Protection.

Home stay hosts provide a spare room, breakfast and dinner, lunch on the weekend, transportation to and from the Council office, and an American home experience. We will provide lunches (M-F), cultural events, transportation to meetings and appointments, and full-day or half-day weekend activities.

What does hosts say about hosting?

“Hosting is fun. You get to meet people, and in many cases, you keep in touch with them after they leave. I’ve been hosting international visitors, especially those from Russia, for 25 years now. I keep a map in my house with pushpins on places I had visitors from.”

- Joseph Corso, Open World homestay host

If you are interested in hosting, or if you have friends of family who may be interested, please get in touch with Mariko Gilman at mariko@worldoregon.org or (503) 306-5252.

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/

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?

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

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.
__,_._,___

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.

 

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.   http://portland.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2010/03/22/story10.html?b=1269230400%5E3058001&s=industry&i=economic_snapshot

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?

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

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

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.

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.

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?

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

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

 

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

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.

"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." http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/11/world/europe/11germany.html?th&emc=th

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.

 

 

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

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?

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

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.

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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."

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.

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?

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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

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.

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

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