Friday, November 21, 2008

Feedback time

Hey all, Here is an opportunity to provide feedback for the state government about any ideas on how to cut back on the budget. Gregoire announced yesterday that the state is millions of dollars over budget and will have to cut. Please take this opportunity to be civically engaged and provide feedback :)




Dear Friends:

Gov. Gregoire has asked her staff to begin discussions with key agencies, local governments, community leaders, and the public at large prior to the development of her budget and legislative agenda. Just like Washington families, state government is facing serious economic challenges. And in tough times creative ideas are needed.

Please take a look at these three questions and contact me via phone or email if you have ideas or suggestions.
· How can state government provide services more efficiently and cost-effectively?
· What current state government functions and programs might be better handled in the private sector or the nonprofit arena?
· How can state government help stimulate Washington's economy?
Finally, Gov. Gregoire has launched a website seeking direct citizen input on her budget: http://www.governor.wa.gov/budget.asp.
Please use the website above, email reply to this message, and the phone to share your ideas. My phone number is below.
I will forward your emails or phoned-in comments immediately to the Governor’s Office.
Thank you for your time and thoughts on how to address these tough issues.
Best regards, ROZ


Rosalund Jenkins, Executive Director
Washington State Commission on African American Affairs
210 11th Ave. SW, Suite 301A, Olympia, WA 98502
rjenkins@caa.wa.gov
Voice 360-725-5663
Fax 360-586-0622

Job Seekers of Color

This may be useful for any job seekers of color out there: Check it out


PWOCN Job Clubs!
November 14, 2008
Looking for a job, especially in this economy, can be difficult and discouraging but you don't have to go it alone. It seems that almost daily we are hearing stories of layoffs and changes in the workplace but believe me there still are great jobs available and many companies are seeking diverse candidates just like you. One of the main goals of The Professional Women of Color Network is supporting women of color and it is with great excitement that we are announcing the formation of Industry Specific Job Clubs for Women of Color!
What is a Job Club?
Job connection clubs are small groups of people who meet regularly to talk candidly about job searching and career advancement with the goal of supporting the success of all members.
Why Join A Job Club? Most of us don't relish the idea of embarking on a job search. It can be a lonely and discouraging process. Because of the length of time it can take to find work, many people lose momentum and grow frustrated. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Becoming part of a job club can offer valuable assistance and renewed optimism. It may also bring a strong sense of accountability that gets you going in the right direction. When you know that your fellow members expect to hear regularly about your progress, you're more inclined to have a productive period leading up to the club meeting. How Do I Join?Select the Job Club you are most interested in joining and send the following information via email to info@pwocn.org:
Name
Address (Include City & State)
Employment Status
Current or Previous Occupation
Industry Club you would like to join
Important!!
Clubs are limited to 8-12 members so join quickly as we expect the spaces to fill up fast! Job/Career CoachesIf you are interested in serving as a Coach or Guest Speaker for any of the clubs listed, please contact us via email at info@pwocn.org. PWOCN Job Club List
IT
Financial Services & Insurance
Social Services
Health Care
Women in Trades
Gen X & Y'ers
Mature Workers
Don't see your industry on the list? Email us with your suggestion!
As we move into the New Year, PWOCN is focusing on strengthening support and partnership opportunities for all of our members. Let's continue to be there for one another by sharing our resources, expertise and knowledge. Collectively we can make a difference for each other!

Sincerely,

Meko L. LawsonProfessional Women of Color Network

Monday, November 17, 2008

Back in action, lots to do



Hey folks, I just started a new job so I have been a bit MIA on the blog, I apologize but now I am back in full force.


Here is a cool event to check out today downtown if you are interested in a job in politics, who’s not these days J


Political Jobs A-GO-GO
Monday, 11/17, 5 – 7pm
Location:
O'Asian Kitchen

Details at:
salsa.democracyinaction.org…


The New Organizing Institute and DemocracyInAction are excited to be partnering with Democratic GAIN, the WIN/WIN Network, OneNW, and NTEN for a networking reception. This reception is open to the public, and will provide an easy way to connect with others in the Seattle area who are looking for job openings or have positions to fill. This cash bar reception.


I went to this event last year, it was really neat to see many faiths come together to worship, definitely check it out:



“All My Relations” A Celebration of Gratitude at Thanksgiving Interfaith Worship Celebration Sunday, November 23rd 2:30 – 4:00 PM Location: St Patrick Church 2702 Broadway Avenue East Seattle, WA 98102 This is an interfaith/InterSpiritual event that embraces indigenous wisdom and traditions. We are looking forward to learning lessons through stories shared by eight celebrants from different faith and spiritual communities. They and a musical group brought together for this event will engage us with lovely songs and insights that address the story lines for the gratitude service: We Are All People of the Earth We Are All Related We Are All Wounded We Will All Heal Together. This is a family-friendly celebration. Please select and bring an item (non-returnable) from the earth that represents something meaningful for which you are grateful. These items will be placed in a community basket that will have a special role in our celebration. NICO, a founding member of the Compassionate Action Network, is sponsoring this InterSpiritual gathering, which is a co-creation of many individuals, spiritual communities and interfaith organizations. It honors and preserves a 22 year tradition in our region. Check out the flyer: http://www.stpatsseattle.org/discuspro/messages/60/Flyer_for_Thanksgiving_service_3_-1165.pdf For more information, contact: John Hale - jehale@earthlink.net; 425.865.0659

For folks of color, Jobtini is a great way to interview for a job in a fun way where you can talk intimately with employers. Colors NW is a great organization and although I have never been to a Jobtini yet, I have heard they are very helpful for networking and job placement Check it out:

Jobtini at http://www.colorscareers.com/ .Next Thursday 11/20! UPDATE: Microsoft will be giving away a free Zune to one lucky job seeker at Jobtini! You must be present to win! Zune is Microsoft's portable media player, enjoy music, videos, podcasts and FM Radio on the go! CONFIRMED EMPLOYERS: Microsoft T-Mobile Community Health Plan of Washington Seattle Parks and Recreation Projectline Services American Family Insurance University Of Washington ... MORE TO COME! WHEN: November 20, 2008, 5:30-8:30 p.m. WHERE: Spitfire, 2219 4th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121 REGISTRATION: Limited Space, Sign up TODAY! FOR INFO: Contact Melissa Laramie melissa@colorsnw.com

This is a fabulous performance, very lively, you can’t help but feel good. I go every year! I wouldn’t miss it for the world, it is especially great if you like to sing!

INTIMAN THEATRE GETS AUDIENCES READY FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH BLACK NATIVITY: A GOSPEL SONG PLAY Opening Night Benefit Performance: Friday, December 5 at 8 pm Performances: November 29 – December 27 at Intiman Playhouse, Seattle Center Tickets are on sale now at http://www.intiman.org or 206.269.1900 SEATTLE— “Hear again the Christmas story” as Intiman Theatre’s Black Nativity enters its second decade as a gospel songfest for the entire family, and a Seattle tradition for audiences of all faiths. This celebration of the holiday season offers gospel favorites (performed by powerful soloists and a full choir) and dance (from traditional to tap). The production is directed by Jacqueline Moscou and choreographed by Kabby Mitchell III, with music direction by Pastor Patrinell Wright. Black Nativity will run November 29-December 27 at the Intiman Playhouse, 201 Mercer Street at Seattle Center. The pay-what-you-can performance is Thursday, December 4 at 7:30 pm and the Opening Night Benefit Performance is Friday, December 5 at 8 pm. Photographs Production photographs can be downloaded at http://www.intiman.org/press/photos.html. If you do not have the User Name and Password on file, please contact stephanie@intiman.org. Ticket and Performance Information Single tickets range in price from $15 to $45, with discounts available for groups of 15 or more. Pending availability, $20 SRO/rush tickets will go on sale 15 minutes before curtain time. Tickets are available for purchase from http://www.intiman.org or over the phone from the Ticket Office at 206.269.1900. Intiman


That’s all for today! Enjoy the sunshine.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Fun times in the city

After a week hiatus, I am back and I have lots of interesting events and things to report.

The coolest community radio station that I recently got to take a tour of is having a birthday bash, consider attending, its fun, inexpensive and a great night of dancing. If you can't attend, consider listening to some of their programs and/ or attend a free workshop.

KBCS 91.3 FM COMMUNITY RADIO 35 YEAR Birthday Bash
Saturday, November 15th, 2008 7:30 PM, Town Hall Seattle performances by Laura Love (http://www.myspace.com/lauralovemusicofficialsite) / (
http://www.lauralove.net) Correo Aereo (http://www.myspace.com/correoaereo) / (http://www.correoaereo.com) Gabriel Teodros (http://www.myspace.com/gabrielteodros) Cristina Orbé (http://www.myspace.com/cristina) / (http://www.cristinaorbe.com) Nefasha Ayer (http://www.myspace.com/nefashaayer) Tickets: $15-$25 on a sliding scale All proceeds benefit KBCS 91.3 FM Community Radio Purchase tickets in advance at: http://www.kbcs.fm

Immigration Policy Debate on Voices of Diversity, Wednesday, November 12th, 6 p.m. KBCS 91.3 FM or KBCS.FM As the U.S. awaits a new administration, what changes might take place in our immigration policy? How does our current policy affect not only immigrants, but American citizens? We’ll consider these and other questions with Carlos Marentes of El Comite, Ira Mehlman of The Federation for American Immigration Reform, and Marc Mazique of Which Way Forward. We also appreciate listener calls at 425-564-2424.

WEDS NOV 12, 7:30 pm, at the KBCS studios, Bellevue;
RADIO JOURNALISM. This workshop covers the basics of radio
journalism. We'll go over our approach to media in
community radio, ethical standards, libel, First Amendment,
and the elements of a good story. A free public affairs
workshop, but we do ask you commit to using your newfound
skills to help make community journalism happen at KBCS.
To get involved, come to one of our 1st Wednesday monthly
public affairs volunteer orientations. Directions at
http://www.kbcs.fm, RSVP to Joaquin Uy 425-564-6195, or
juy@bcc.ctc.edu
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Some board positions to look where you can lend your quality professional skills and make a difference!

URGENT! Serve on the Children’s Response Center Advisory Board and make a difference in the lives of children who are victims of sexual assault and trauma. The Children’s Response Center (CRC) is a well-established non-profit organization serving children and families on the Eastside for over 20 years. Originally launched by police and other community agencies, CRC is dedicated to meeting the needs to children dealing with very difficult circumstances. Advisory Board members oversee fundraising events and assist with raising awareness throughout the Eastside community about sexual assault prevention. ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WITH A PASSION FOR THE WORK ARE WELCOME. For more information please visit our website http://www.childrensresponsecenter.org/ or call Sally Martinez, Community Affairs Director, at (425) 467-3390.

Annual Report Copy Editor Needed. The Children’s Response Center seeks a skilled writer/editor to pull all information together (which is currently available in files) and put it in readable, interesting format for annual report. Report to be posted on website. Call Sally Martinez, Community Affairs Director, at (425) 467-3390.

Website Content Expert needed: Children’s Response Center is looking for a skilled person to keep the content on our website updated. Estimated time is three hours per month for the first three months. Then one hour a month. Call Sally Martinez, Community Affairs Director, at (425) 467-3390.
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I am partial to UW Bothell and I am super excited they have started to offer a Master's in Cultural Studies. This should be a very cool event!
Toby Miller: “Green Cultural Citizenship.” Wednesday, November 12, 6:00-8:30pm, North Creek Events Center at UW Bothell. FREE. Toby Miller, Professor of Media & Cultural Studies at the University of California, Riverside, will point to limitations in how cultural citizenship is theorized in cultural and media studies. He will argue for a “green” model of cultural citizenship, one that places demands for more media, speech, and publicity in the context of the disastrous environmental impact of an emphasis on growth as an end in itself. Miller’s lecture marks the launch of the Master of Arts in Cultural Studies (MACS) program at University of Washington Bothell. MACS offers an integrative approach to the study of culture across diverse locations. MACS prepares students for diverse careers in social, cultural, and arts fields or for further interdisciplinary graduate education across the arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences. To learn more about MACS, see: http://www.uwb.edu/IAS/macs/. A reception will follow Toby Miller’s lecture. The event is FREE, and all are welcome. To RSVP, or for more information, contact Lisa: lolason@uwb.edu or 425.352.3136. For directions, see: http://www.uwb.edu/visitors/.

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Dancing is a great way to celebrate and get involved in the Seattle Community, this is a pretty rad way to get involved!

Please join Bahia in Motion for another exciting workshop series coming up next weekend
, Saturday, November 13th! In addition to Daniel's Afro-Brazilian class, we have a special guest joining us, Dennis Richards, who will teach a Cuban Rueda class!!! (salsa danced in a group in circle form). Afterwards, for those interested, we'll head to Century Ballroom DOWN THE HALL, to settle into some of the latin moves we just learned from Dennis! It will be an evening full of sumptuous Afro-Latin dancing AND.... EACH CLASS COSTS ONLY $5 + your generous food donation to NW Harvest. This workshop is dedicated to those in need over the holidays. So, come on out to DANCE AND DONATE!! Bring your friends and family!! Start your holiday season by infusing your body and soul with the enchanting movements and sounds of Cuba and Brasil. Here are the details: Afro-Brazilian/Afro-Cuban Workshop When: Saturday, November 15th Afro-Brazilian Class: 6pm-7:30pm Instructor: Daniel Pitta (Bahia in Motion) Cuban Rueda Class: 7:30pm-9pm Instructor: Dennis Richards Where: Velocity Dance Center (Capitol HIll) MAINSPACE 915 E. Pine Street (2nd Floor) Cost: $5 per class plus a food donation Please give a call or send an email with any questions!! We hope to see you next Saturday!! Axe! (A-shay) Aileen and Daniel Bahia in Motion bahiainmotion.com 206-518-3421
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This is a cool workshop to focus on peace and justice skill building, check it out!

TUES NOV 11, evening, in Seattle; COMPASSIONATE
LISTENING: Healing our World from the Inside Out - an
introductory session with Susan Partnow and Andrea Cohen.
The Compassionate Listening Project teaches powerful skills
for peace building in our daily lives, in our families,
communities, in the workplace, and among nations; speaking
and listening from the heart, even in the heat of conflict.
info http://www.compassionatelistening.org or 206-523-6018
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Want to see the Executive Director of Real Change talk about Homelessness:

**WEDS NOV 12, noon, in the second floor conference room
of the Plaza Building at 6th & Stewart, just across
Westlake Avenue from the Westin Hotel, downtown Seattle;
Metropolitan Democratic Club board meeting with program
speaker Tim Harris, Executive Director of RealChange News,
who will talk to us about the PROBLEM OF HOMELESSNESS IN
OUR COMMUNITY and the ten-year plan to end it. feel free
to bring your lunch. info http://www.metrodems.org


Ok thats all for today! Enjoy!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Vote today! Events to check out

Ok its election day and you voted so now you need to celebrate, or wait to see if your candidate is the winner while celebrating!

Some events to go to tonight:

DON’T SPEND ELECTION NIGHT ALONE! COME TO OUR ELECTION NIGHT SPECIAL, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 AT 5:30 PM Contact: George Howland Jr., SEATTLE CHANNEL Communications george.howland@seattle.gov, (206) 684-5755 SEATTLE -Why spend election night alone when you can spend it with friends and fellow political junkies at Town Hall? Our free Election Night Special begins at 5:30 pm, when SEATTLE CHANNEL’s C.R. Douglas moderates a left/right/center panel featuring Democratic political consultant Cathy Allen, KVI host John Carlson, Seattle Times columnist and editorial writer Joni Balter, and Crosscut.com feature columnist Knute Berger analyzing the national and local races. At 6:30 pm, we’ll start a returns viewing party emceed by Fred Northup, sprinkled with political trivia and prizes. You can also step into the SEATTLE CHANNEL’s “Election Confessional” to talk about the issues that motivated your vote this election season. Presented by SEATTLE CHANNEL, Town Hall Center for Civic Life, and Crosscut.com. Come anytime after 5:30. Free, no tickets required. Please register at http://www.brownpapertickets.com (no calls). WHAT: Election Night Special WHERE: Town Hall, 1119 8th Ave, (8th & Seneca) Seattle WHEN: Tuesday, November 4 at 5:30 - 10:30 pm HOW MUCH: Free, no tickets required _______________________________________________________
Election Evening Extravaganza! November 4 starting at 8pm Don't let your Champagne go flat this election night! Join Northwest Film Forum and Strawberry Theatre Workshop as we turn NWFF into the epicenter of election information, complete with major network broadcasts in our two cinemas, radio coverage in the lobby, dead presidents, and live blogging all night long! As each state gets called, watch our master of ceremonies MJ Sieber post red and blue light bulbs on our giant map of the country, marking wins for Obama or McCain. Raise a glass in celebration or dilute your beer with your tears-either way, it beats being home and yelling at your television. The Extravaganza is a fund-raising party for Northwest Film Forum and Strawberry Theatre Workshop. Suggested donation $10. PURCHASE TICKETS NOW 1515 12th Ave Seattle, Washington 98122 On the web at nwfilmforum.org


To follow up the election, some events that are coming up to discuss the outcome include:
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Center for Women and Democracy Supporting, stimulating and fostering women’s effective participation and leadership in local, national and global affairs. Please join us for our monthly Food for Thought Lecture Series November 20th, 2008 6:00-9:00pm Women's University Club State of Women in Politics: Post-Election Analysis Time for us to once again take stock of how far we’re come in the race for equality in public office. From the federal elections to the state legislative races, to our statewide women Supreme Court Justices: how’d we do in 2008 and are we better off than we began the year? RSVP now by clicking here November 20th, 2008 6-9pm at the Women's University Club See what has really changed regarding women and political power in 2008. Did you know that Rwanda women now number more than 50% in its Parliament? Or that Canada inched up to 22.1% women in its Parliament? And, Israel now is likely two months away from having a woman Prime Minister? And Hillary running (and darn near becoming) the Democratic Presidential nominee? And Sarah Palin becoming the first Republican woman to make the Presidential ticket? Whew! Time for us to once again take stock of how far we’re come in the race for equality in public office. From the federal elections to the state legislative races, to our statewide women Supreme Court Justices: how’d we do in 2008 and are we better off than we began the year? Please join us Thursday, November 20, 2008 as we continue our annual State of Women in Politics: Post Election Analysis We will look at women's success on the local, state, national, and international front. Join us as we hear from some of the women winners including a drop by from Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown. Please join us as political analyst Cathy Allen reports on the progress women have made in this never-ending year of politics. This is one of our best-loved programs of the year! Join us Thursday, November 20 from 6:00 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. at the Women’s University Club, 1105 6th Avenue in downtown Seattle. The cost is $35 in advance or $40 at the door, or you can take advantage of our “Dinner and a Membership” deal by joining the Center at a Food for Thought program for $100 and receive your meal that evening at no additional cost. RSVP now by clicking here Women's University Club 1105 6th Avenue Seattle, WA Center for Women and Democracy http://www.womenanddemocracy.org info@womenanddemocracy.org

Have a great day and enjoy the election watching!