Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Happy Jewish New Year

Today is the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashannah. One of the things Judaism talks about is the idea of doing good deeds, mitzvah and helping the world heal, tikkun olam, healing the world.
To learn more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitzvah
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tikkun_olam
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosh_Hashannah

By participating in service and getting involved in our communities, we are all working to heal the world in our own way and care about one another. We only have one crazy life so its cool to tap into ways to help ourselves and others. Hopefully this blog, can be a starting point for ways to do that in Seattle. If you have ideas for how I can better serve you, shoot me an e-mail and let me know how this blog can better work for you. I also want to hear the positives and If you have any fantastic ideas of things you would like to see more of on the blog. Cool.

Here is an interesting radio program to check out tomorrow:

*WEDS OCT 1, and subsequent Wednesdays, 2 - 3 p.m., on
KKNW, 1150 AM radio or live at http://www.1150amkknw.com ;
Northwest Interfaith Community Outreach takes a step
forward with the new, weekly INTERFAITH TALK RADIO SHOW
featuring Rabbi Ted Falcon, Muslim Sufi Minister Jamal
Rahman and Pastor Don Mackenzie. Listen in and contribute
to the growing and deepening interfaith dialogue on matters
of SPIRITUALITY, FAITH, COMPASSION, INCLUSION AND SOCIAL
JUSTICE. info http://www.interfaithtalkradio.com [updated
4/30/07]

This should be a very interesting event:

WEDS OCT 1, 7:30 pm, at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th
Avenue at Seneca Street, Downstairs, enter on Seneca,
Seattle; Tony Wagner: 'GLOBAL ACHIEVEMENT GAP' Education
expert Tony Wagner (Harvard Graduate School of Education)
has conducted scores of interviews with business leaders
and observed hundreds of classes in some of the national's
most highly regarded public schools. He blasts 'No Child
Left Behind' for forcing schools to teach to multiple
choice tests and concludes that even "good" high schools
are not teaching students the skills-critical thinking and
problem solving-needed to enter the work force in a global
economy. Wagner provides examples of dramatically
different schools that teach all students new skills and
explains how every American can work to overhaul our
education system. Presented by the Town Hall Center for
Civic Life, with Elliott Bay Book Company. Tickets $5
available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com, 800-838-3006
and at the door beginning at 6:30. Town Hall members
receive priority seating. info
http://www.townhallseattle.org

Have a nice day

Monday, September 29, 2008

Hey Hey It's a busy week!

My week has been crazy busy and it is only Monday. Today is a big day for local government, the Mayor of Seattle is unveiling the budget for the next two years, lots of programs and jobs will be impacted by where the money is allocated. The county budget will be unveiled mid-October, look for lots of discussion about that in the paper and on the news.

Here are some events to look into:

The M. Rosetta Hunter Art Gallery at Seattle Central Community College presents PORNOGRAPHY OF POWER: THE ANTI-WAR ART OF SELMA WALDMAN, (Selma was a strong supporter of Women in Black – both locally and internationally.) September 22 - October 24, 2008. Following the most recent declaration of the War on Terror in 2001, Selma Waldman, (1931-2008), an artist with a life-long commitment to social justice, created an extraordinary series of 100 drawings, The Black Book of Aggressors, a profound and relentless response to the degradation of human beings and the systematic abuse of power in Abu Ghraib, Guantanamo, and elsewhere. Two “walls” from this series, along with earlier work, comprise Pornography of Power. With searing line and jarring color, Waldman explicitly exposes the atrocities of war. The exhibition also includes a selection of earlier works, and an installation that invokes her intense working environment including an unfinished work surrounded by photographs, notes, and sketches. Gallery Hours: Monday - Friday 9:30 am to 3:30 pm Tuesday & Wednesday Evenings 5pm-7pm. Admission is free. For more information call (206) 344-4379 The M. Rosetta Hunter Art Gallery is located at the north end of Central’s Atrium Cafeteria in the main building at the corner of Broadway and Pine or visit online: http://www.seattlecentral.edu/artgallery

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Immigrant rights/LGBTQ rights discussion-This Tuesday There is this fantastic discussion happening this Tuesday, September 30th, at 6:30pm at the Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center. Closed Minds Closed Borders: a discussion on the intersectionality of Immigrant rights and LGBTQ rights We have El Comite, Entre Hermanos and National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum speaking plus other LGBTQ immigrants. We also have some amazing immigrant spoken word artists performing. If you have questions please contact allyship@yahoo.com
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Columbia City BeatWalk: South Seattle’s only monthly music festival! Friday, October 3, 2008 Along Rainier Ave. S between S. Edmunds and S. Hudson 7-10pm $5, kids are free More info: http://columbiacitybeatwalk.org Awash: Fred Hoadley & Sonando Earshot’s Golden Ear Award-winning Cuban jazz band for your dancing pleasure. Gallery: Trio A Propos Bal Musette, American swing, French chanson along with tunes from Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. Bookworm: Shirley Cooper & Norm Bellas Jazz and blues. CC Fitness: Urban Blue Oasis Soulful Brazilian sounds from these local greats. Columbia City Theater: Stephen Smartt Quartet Originals from this local up-and-coming group. Gather Seattle: Biller+Casalini Duo Lyrical exponent of acoustic jazz on 7-string guitar and double bass. Retroactive Kids/Columbia City Cuts: The Canote Brothers Quirky, fun and oh, so capable! Guitar and fiddle from these genetic wonders. Island Soul: Duo Caribe with special guest, Eduardo Mendonca Brazil meets the Caribbean with this great mixture of BeatWalk favorites. ________________________________________________
La Sala presents: Tools for Cultural Development A day-long series of roundtable discussions and workshops on building cultural hubs and professional development for Latino/a and Hispanic artists of all disciplines. Sessions will include: a report on The Creative Construct: Building for Culture and Creativity international symposium by consultant Roger Valdez who attended in April '08. Valdez's interest in arts and cultural spaces involves keeping Seattle both affordable and sustainable for artists and arts organizations. Following his presentation, Roger will lead a panel discussion with local arts organization leaders from The CD Forum, Wing Luke Asian Museum and Youngstown Cultural Arts Center; presentation on building arts spaces by Laura Esparza, City of Austin's Cultural Affairs Manager and a national consultant who has managed the planning/design and construction of numerous museums and cultural centers including post-construction organizational programming; the unveiling of a new electronic format for the award-winning Latino Cultural Magazine, by publisher/photographer Hugo Ludeña; a skill-building workshop on grantwriting by local arts administrators. This event aims to inform, engage and encourage emerging and established artists and their supporters. Open to all artists (regardless of ethnicity) and the public. Saturday, October 4, 2008 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm Youngstown Cultural Arts Center 4408 Delridge Way SW Seattle, WA 98106 As Seattle's Spanish-speaking and English-Spanish bilingual population grows, so does its community of Latino/a and Hispanic artists. The local Latino community needs both real and virtual cultural hubs; the community needs its own sala (living room). At Tools for Cultural Development, artists and arts administrators from the Latino community will share information and resources on how to build these hubs, as well as offer workshops to develop artists' professional skills. Tools for Cultural Development is presented by La Sala (http://www.lasalaseattle.org), an emerging collective that is coalescing and mobilizing the Latino-Hispanic arts community in the Seattle area. This event is supported by 4Culture, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, The Association of Washington State Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, Latino Cultural Magazine and Raven Chronicles. La Sala, a collective of eight artists/administrators/advocates, co-founded by Irene Gómez, Miguel Guillén and Hugo Ludeña, aims to increase the visibility of Latino/a and Hispanic artists in the region's arts landscape. Recent La Sala gatherings have brought Latino artists together at Artist Trust's artists' resource room and the studios of KCTS/V-Me. For additional information: Irene Gómez at irene@lasalaseattle.org or Miguel Guillén at miguel@lasalaseattle.org ________________________________________________________
Youth Voter Registration Drive & Rally 'Be a Super Hero, Save the Vote' Last Chance to Register “that is why it is so important to vote. Or you submit to the edict of others.” st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } Who: Musica Entertainment, in partner with King County Elections, Seattle City Hall and with the support of Councilmember Bruce Harrell. What: Are hosting a Non-Partisan Youth Voter Registration Drive and Rally geared toward people 18-25. Where: The event will be held at Seattle City Hall. 600 4th Avenue Seattle, WA 98104 (206) 684-8888 This event is free and welcomes people of all ages! When: Saturday October 4th, 2008 from 12:00pm-4:00pm. This will be the last day to register for national and local elections. Why: Musica Entertainment, the event's producer, understands that people 18-25 will have a great impact on this year's upcoming election. The focus of our event is to ensure balanced information, political awareness and create an open dialog amongst participants and advocacy groups. This is a FREE, family-friendly event! Anyone who is seeking information on political issues is welcome to come down, get informed, and register to vote. This Event Includes: · Local political candidates and representatives. · Advocates and information from ALL sides of the issues. · Film, Television and Sports celebrities. · Indie Rock Bands, Hip Hop Groups, DJ's and many more. · A "Kids Zone" which includes kids' ballots and an oversized post card to display the children's dreams for the future. Kids will also receive a free voting-related coloring book. · King County Elections will be registering voters and providing an accessible voting unit. Participants at this event have the opportunity to cast a test ballot using the machine. ** If you are interested in participating, supporting or volunteering for this event please contact Emoree Martin by e-mail at Emoree.musicaentertainment@yahoo.com or 425 373-6244** Thank you for all of the great response to our call to action. The response locally, regional and nationally to support the Be A Super Hero, Save The Vote non-partisan youth voter registry & rally with information from all points of view has been a "Call to Conscience." If you or your group are traveling to Seattle to attend and would like to participate or volunteer please contact Emoree.musicaentertainment@yahoo.com. As usual MUSICA supports music and artists. If you would like to perform at this historic event and feel that it is important that your “message” be heard or talent be seen, please email a biography and mp3 to marcellat@musicaentertainment.org or mail a physical biography package ASAP to MUSICA Entertainment, P.O. Box 18774. Seattle, Washington 98118. Spaces are extremely limited for performances, but we are looking for you! MUSICA http://www.musicaentertainment.org _______________________________________________
Dear Friend of Educational Equity: As you may know, our state’s ethnic commissions are involved in five studies on the academic achievement gap affecting students of color. We all face the shared challenge of delivering a coherent and compelling message to state policy makers. Our varied methods and issues make aligning our work a challenge. Yet, solutions often appear when people of good will work together. A long-standing fighter for educational equity may hold the key to aligning our efforts: Mr. Paul Ruiz, co-founder of The Education Trust, headquartered in Washington, DC. Mr. Ruiz briefed the House Bill 2722 Advisory Committee in Tacoma on Sept. 9, 2008. In a breathtaking talk, Mr. Ruiz outlined an elegant, precise strategy that is relevant to all of our studies, whatever our unique issues, methods, findings, or recommendations may be. You deserve to hear his powerful, transcendent approach and consider it as we move forward. We ethnic commission directors enthusiastically invite you to hear Mr. Ruiz outline his strategy. His insights will benefit all of our advisory teams, researchers, and friends who are eager to close the achievement gap. You are urgently invited to a special session with Mr. Paul Ruiz of The Education Trust: Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2008 Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Place: Washington Mutual Leadership Center at Cedarbrook The Summit Room -- Light refreshments will be served in the foyer 18525 36th Avenue South, SeaTac, Washington 98188 http://www.cedarbrookcenter.com/findus.html Washington Mutual is co-sponsoring this event. Thanks WAMU! The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Commission on African American Affairs provided financial support so this event could be free of charge. Please R.S.V.P. to Alicia Luna at 360-725-5661 or aluna@cha.wa.gov or Pam Morris at 360-725-5664 or pmorris@caa.wa.gov. Sincerely, Rosalund Jenkins Ellen Abellera Uriel Iniguez Craig Bill Director Director Director Director CAAA CAPAA CHA GOIA Enclosure BIOGRAPHY Paul Ruiz Paul Ruiz, a Senior Advisor at the Education Trust, has devoted more than 30 years of professional work to the educational success of all students, with a particular focus on improving achievement and closing the Latino and African-American achievement gap. He has served as a school principal and central office administrator. He was selected Educator of the Year by the Michigan Department of Education. At the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), he worked to bring together K-12 and college CEOs as well as business and community leaders to significantly increase the number of Hispanic and low-income students prepared to enter and succeed in college. He is a co-founder of the Education Trust where he worked to implement the first national effort to establish a network of over 60 local K-16 councils. He is the former Chief Academic Officer for the District of Columbia Public Schools. Since returning to the Education Trust, Ruiz works out of San Antonio establishing closer and more substantive working relationships between the Education Trust and local education and civic leaders in the southwest region of our country. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, holds a Master of Arts from Central Michigan University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. _______________________________________________
Thursday, October 9 -- The Commission on African American Affairs will meet from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mount Zion Baptist Church, 1634 19th Ave. in Seattle. We will conduct regular business and pre-legislative day sessions on health disparities, education, and youth violence as follows: Rep. Mary Helen Roberts, D-21st District, will present on disproportionate minority confinement/juvenile justice issues. Rep. Eric Pettigrew and advisory committee members will update the community on implementation of House Bill 2722 addressing the academic achievement gap. We will be present “Unnatural Causes: In Sickness and in Wealth” an excerpt from the acclaimed Public Broadcasting documentary exploring health disparities. Finger foods and light refreshments will be served The public comment period will be from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. Call 360-725-5663 for more information. ____________________________________________
Join us for Breakfast! Diversity Panel: “Recruiting and Employment Best Practices with an Emphasis on People with Disabilities” This presentation will focus on recruiting and employment with an emphasis on people with disabilities as our diversity panel for the year. This is timely because October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and we will be honoring this with the panel discussion on best practices, value of persons with disabilities and ways to better understand ADA. Moderator: Matt Storey – Vice President of the WSBLN and President Direct Interactions Panelists: Lynnae Ruttledge - Director of the Washington Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Don Brandon - Director of the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC) Northwest Marthalee Galeota - Access and Disability Program Manager at Starbucks and Board Member USBLN Karen Walters, PHR - Executive Director of the Washington State Business Leadership Network (WSBLN) Click HERE for Leader Bios The HR professional will learn to: Apply best practices from top Seattle area employers who have been successful in hiring and retaining persons with disabilities. Identify and dispel disability related myths and stereotypes. Recognize the contributions, accomplishments, and overall value of persons with disabilities as employees. Network and source job seekers within the disabilities community. Better understand how the ADA law’s affects the employer community. WHEN: Thursday, October 16, 2008 - 7:30AM to 9:00AM (Registration at 7:15AM) WHERE: Washington Athletic Club 1325 Sixth Avenue Seattle, WA PRICE: Seattle SHRM Member: $30.00 Non-member: $40.00 Student: $15.00 *Price includes meal. ______________________________________________
The Seattle Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. cordially invites you to "A Celebration of Reds and Whites- A Wine Tasting Experience" featuring some of the most exquisite wines from the State of Washington and across the world. Also, the sorority celebrates its 2008-2009 year of service and the warm community supporters who have helped us throughout the years. View the work of local artists from C. Art Gallery as you sample various red and white wines and delightful cheese and chocolate pairings. A local expert from Pete's Winery will be on hand to offer wine tasting lessons and insight. Tickets are available for $25.00+service charge through http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/42760 or by contacting Seattle Alumnae by phone at (206) 666-9782 or via email at seattlealum@gmail.com. **Tickets sold only in advance** DATE: Saturday October 18, 2008 TIME: 7:30 - 10 pm LOCATION: C. Art Gallery - Hiawatha Lofts Community Room 843 Hiawatha Place South Seattle, WA 98144
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Come take the Career & Life Planning class at Bellevue Community College! Join us for this great non-credit, one weekend class to help you identify your interests and transferable skills; find career options to fit your skills and experience; and get the latest information on re-training. Class is open to all men and women, and will be held Fri. Oct. 24th 6:00-9:00 p.m. and Sat. Oct. 25th 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Bellevue Community College’s main campus. Class fee is $99, but some partial scholarships may be available based on financial need. Advanced registration is required. For more information or to sign-up, please call (425) 564-2279. Class is sponsored by the BCC Center for Career Connections and the Women’s Center, and funded in part by the Cities of Bellevue and Issaquah. ____________________________________________________

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Some great events that can help you walk in other people's shoes

So today, I was trying to decide if I should do something big time like put a picture on my blog. I mean we are talking serious deliberation. :) So I decided to unvail a picture that I think can inspire some thinking as you attend different events in the city, what are those experiences like for different folks in your community. When I was sitting in a City Council Committee meeting today and listening to folks talk passionately about the arts and the environment, I thought about how hard it is to speak publically about things you care about and how you get comfortable doing that. To me, the answer is getting the opportunity to speak, someone believing in you and giving you the time of day to really listen. In order to foster an inclusive community we need to be comfortable helping people find their voice and speaking out about what they know. So I encourage you to ask questions to folks in your community that don't usually speak up and see what they have to say about politics, public service, if you are brave, the economy and Sarah Palin :) Ok, I think I am done with my soapbox, which coincidentally is the name given to the time when the public can comment at a City Council meeting, go figure.

Here are some events going on for the rest of the week, really fabulous! Yay for Critical Mass.
THURS SEPT 25, 6:30 p.m., at Capitol Hill Branch Library, Seattle; For the fifth year running, The Seattle Public Library presents the September Project, a series of events exploring issues of FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY. This year's programs include civic discussions, author readings, drama and film at three Library locations, including this conversation between former President Clinton speechwriter Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer of Second Avenue Partners, co- authors of THE TRUE PATRIOT (Sasquatch). Free admission. info http://www.spl.org/ or 206-386-4636 DOM AND DEMOCRACY. This year's programs include civic discussions, author readings, drama and film at three Library locations, including this conversation between former President Clinton speechwriter Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer of Second Avenue Partners, co- authors of THE TRUE PATRIOT (Sasquatch). Free admission. info http://www.spl.org/ or 206-386-4636
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THURS SEPT 25, 7:30 pm, at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Avenue at Seneca Street, downstairs, enter on Seneca, Seattle; Robert Shiller: 'The SUBPRIME SOLUTION.' Yale economics professor Robert Shiller rose to fame in 2000 with his best-selling Irrational Exuberance, in which he effectively predicted the tech and stock market crash of 2001. In his new book, The Subprime Solution: HOW TODAY'S GLOBAL FINANCIAL CRISIS HAPPENED, and What to Do About It, Shiller looks at how we got into the subprime mess and how we can get out of it. Shiller concludes that unchecked financial innovation works poorly in asset markets and describes the institutional measures he believes are necessary to prevent future such bubbles. Presented by the Town Hall Center for Civic Life, with Elliott Bay Book Company. Tickets $5 available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/, 800-838-3006 and at the door beginning at 6:30. Town Hall members receive priority seating. info http://www.townhallseattle.org/

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FRI SEPT 26, and subsequent last Fridays, 5:30 p.m., at Westlake Park, downtown, 4th & Pine, Seattle; CRITICAL MASS, an organized coincidence of bicyclists who ride around the streets of Seattle en masse. It happens when a lot of cyclists happen to be in the same place at the same time and decide to cycle the same way together for a while. Come join the fun! info http://students.washington.edu/spiegel/ cmass.html a discussion board for people to discuss things like ride routes and how to deal with traffic lights and police, or anything else related to Critical Mass

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SAT SEPT 27, 10 am - 4:30 pm, KING COUNTY HARVEST CELEBRATION FARM TOUR - 10th Annual! Farms from around King County invite you to come and get a taste of farm life! It's a day of fun and agricultural learning for children and adults! Last year, thousands of tour participants talked to farmers and walked their fields, enjoyed family hay rides, ran through corn mazes and ate produce fresh off the field! Go on this year's farm tour and see for yourself where farmers grow our local foods, raise farm animals, and steward rural and agricultural land in King County. The Harvest Celebration Farm Tour is presented by WSU King County Extension, in partnership with King Conservation District and King County. info http://king.wsu.edu/foodandfarms/HarvestCelebration.html
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MON Sept. 29th. The Mayor will be unveiling the budget for the next two years for the City. In Seattle City Council Chambers 2p.m.
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TUES SEPT 30, and subsequent last Tuesdays, please confirm, noon - 1 pm, at Offices of Washington State Bar Association, 1325 4th Avenue, Suite 600, Seattle; forum on a topic of LAW & PEACE. This month topic: TBA. 1 CLE credit usually available. Sponsor: Washington State Bar Association World Peace Through Law Section, Open to section members, all welcome to join for $25/ year for monthly meetings and more, law students $7. CLE credit applied for. Pre-Registration required. info http://www.wsba.org/lawyers/groups/worldpeace or WSBA 800- 945-9722 [updated 8/19/07]

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Bring on a great day with some cool events!

Battle in Seattle came out in the theaters about the WTO protests in your city, Seattle in the '90s. The movie shows the protests through multiple perspectives and I think is a valuable tool to start you thinking about a trade, corporate power and the upcoming election.

"Battle in Seattle" directed by Stuart Townsend about the 1999 WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION (WTO) DEMONSTRATIONS for economic fairness, environmental wellness, and active democracy. Tens of thousands of ordinary people - UNION MEMBERS, ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISTS, FARMERS, STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND NUNS - gathered together in an extraordinary alliance to challenge the WTO in Seattle. http://www.battleinseattlemovie.com

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This next event is really worth going to if you have kids or are thinking about wanting to have them :) or you just find learning about parenting fascinating. Paul Kivel is one of my heroes as far as a really fantastic social justice educator that is a great community organizer and teacher. He is an author of several books that I own and you should really look into his work on multiculturalism. Specifically, he has focused on parenting for social justice and he is really outstanding. Check him out:

THURS SEPT 25, 5:30 - 6:30 Dinner, 6:30 - 8:30 Workshop, at Miller Community Center, 330 19th Ave E on Capitol Hill in Seattle, wheelchair accessible; New Beginnings will sponsor the Boys will be Men: Raising our Sons for Courage, Caring and Community, a community WORKSHOP ON RAISING HEALTHY BOYS with social justice educator, Paul Kivel. Paul has been an innovative leader in violence prevention for more than 27 years. He is an accomplished trainer and speaker on men's issues, racism and diversity, challenges of youth, teen dating and family violence, raising boys to manhood, and the impact of class and power on daily life. A community workshop for men, parents, mentors, teachers, youth workers, social workers, and anyone committed to raising healthy boys. Men strongly encouraged to attend, everyone welcome. Sponsored by New Beginnings in partnership with King County Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Asian & Pacific Islander Women & Family Safety Center and Project DVORA. New Beginnings' mission is to provide shelter, advocacy and support for battered women and their children, and to change attitudes and institutions that foster and perpetuate violence. Childcare available upon request. Free. RSVP to socialchange2@newbegin.org or 206-926-3016. info http://www.newbegin.org or 206-926-3028

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Some other cool events happening in Seattle today and tomorrow are:

**SEPT 24 - 28, at Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway, Seattle; Seattle's 5th INDEPENDENT SOUTH ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL (ISAFF) is a five-day festival of independent feature films, short films, and documentaries from the South Asian subcontinent and Diaspora living around the world. ISAFF also features workshops, panels, presentations, and discussion forums. The theme, "Personal is Political: A South Asian Lens on Love," illustrates topics that resonate in the film selection, including South Asian LGBTQ rights and issues, arranged marriage, and cross-cultural relationships. ISAFF is produced by Tasveer, a community-based, not-for-profit organization promoting independent South Asian film in the Northwest. Many community sponsors. $65 Festival Pass, does not include workshops, individual events free-$15. Babes in arms welcome in the movie theater. Kids Play Room also available for children over 1year old to be dropped off at suggested minimum donation of $5 per event. info Farah Nousheen, farah@tasveer.org, 206-779-9561 or http://www.tasveer.org

*WEDS SEPT 24, and subsequent Wednesdays, 6 p.m. on KBCS- FM, 91.3, online at http://www.kbcs.fm ; Live call-in talk show "VOICES OF DIVERSITY" will focus on topics related to CULTURAL DIVERSITY, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES. The show is produced by Community Volunteers. Show is sponsored by the City of Bellevue Parks and Community Services department and KBCS; We'll also be taking calls from our listeners at 425-564-2424. This show: TBA. info Callie Shanafelt 425-452-7922 or cshanafelt@ci.bellevue.wa.us or http://www.kbcs.fm Show archive online at http://kbcs.fm/site/PageServer?pagename=voicesofdiversity [confirmed 5/24/08]

**WEDS SEPT 24, 7 pm, at Central Cinema, 21st and Union St., Seattle; The Langston Hughes AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL presents the UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FILM SERIES, A Cultural Journey to Freedom through the Lens of Black Cinema, with a full season of provocative narrative and documentary films. This film "How Do I Look?" (Documentary - USA 2006; 80min), Director- Wolfgang Bush. How Do I Look is a showcase of the talent of the Harlem "Ball" Community. The film follows several famous Ball artists such as Willi Ninja, Kevin Ultra-Omni, Octavia St. Laurent and Jose Xtravaganza as they experience Ball competitions and challenges faced by the community as it confronts the misconceptions around drug use, sex work, acceptance of sexuality and gender and HIV/AIDS. "Break dancers get together and do stuff like this and it's fully accepted " notes Willi Ninja, one of the Ball's most celebrated dancers. "If Madonna does vouge-ing, its ok." he adds "But when the Ball children dance, even now, people say, 'Oh, its a bunch of crazy queens throwing themselves on the floor.' " This film features the gritty and glamorous testimony of who excited the runways of Harlem and beyond. Panel Discussion follows.The Underground Railroad Film Series partners with community groups, organizations and traditionally marginalized populations to host a screening of films by or about Black people that intersect across cultures, providing opportunities for community engagement and self-reflection. Co presented with the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival. Suggested donation $5. info 206- 326-1088 or http://www.langstonblackfilmfest.org or http://lhaaffbside.blogspot.com

WEDS SEPT 24, 7 - 9 pm, at University of Washington Kane Hall 220, Seattle; FACING CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE DEVELOPING WORLD: How Can We Help? It is well known that developing countries, and people living in poverty, are most vulnerable to the disabling effects of climate change. But how these societies will be affected, and what communities can do to adapt to the threats created by climate change, is only beginning to be understood. The purpose of this forum is to explore a coherent response to climate change in developing countries, and gain a better understanding of how the threat might alter the strategies of activists and donors supporting poor communities in overcoming poverty. Presenters: Dr. Tom Ackerman, Director of the UW's Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean (JISAO), KC Golden, Policy Director at Seattle-based Climate Solutions; Heather Coleman, Senior Policy Advisor on Climate Change at Oxfam America. Sponsored by: Pangea: Giving for Global Change, The Seattle Foundation, and Center for Global Studies (Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, UW). info http://www.pangeagiving.org/

WEDS SEPT 24, 7:30 pm, at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Avenue at Seneca Street, Downstairs, enter on Seneca, Seattle; Tariq Ali: On Pakistan. Pakistan is the lynchpin of the United States war on terror, yet relations between the two countries are never less than tense. Writer, journalist, and film-maker Tariq Ali, the well-connected, Oxford-educated scion of a famous Punjabi political family, weighs the prospects of those contending for power in The Duel: PAKISTAN ON THE FLIGHT PATH OF AMERICAN POWER. Presented by the Town Hall Center for Civic Life, with Elliott Bay Book Company. Tickets $5 available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com, 800-838-3006 and at the door beginning at 6:30. Town Hall members receive priority seating. info http://www.townhallseattle.org

*THURS SEPT 25, noon to 1 p.m., at Laura Pierce Consulting, 2014 E Madison St, Suite 300 (co-located with the Pride Foundation) across from Planned Parenthood, Seattle; meeting of SOCIAL JUSTICE BOOK CLUB. The September book will be "The Revolution Will Not Be Funded," INCITE! If you are unable to read the whole book, please try to read this chapter, available online: http://paulkivel.com/articles/socialserviceorsocialchange.p df, Please do come even if you only have time to read the excerpt. brown bag lunch, so bring your own lunch and plan on an hour of fabulous mid-day conversation! hosted by member Laura Pierce, facilitated by Polly Trout, info Polly 206-465-6342

*THURS SEPT 25, and subsequent Thursdays, noon - 1 p.m., at the Broadway Farmer's Market, Tacoma; PEACE VIGIL organized by United for Peace of Pierce County. All peaceful folk are welcome and encouraged to turn out! info http://www.ufppc.org [confirmed 6/20/08]

*THURS SEPT 25, and subsequent Thursdays, 1 - 2 p.m., on KKNW-AM, 1150,and streaming live at http://www.1150kknw.com/ and on http://afragenesis.net ; Culture Talk, with Kevin P. Henry, on Alternative Talk and on the Afra Genesis Network. We talk about the hot topics related to CULTURE, SOCIAL AND HEALTH ISSUES, live. info Kevin Henry khenry@bellevuewa.gov [added 1/4/08]


THURS SEPT 25, Reception 5:15 pm, presentation 6 - 7:30 pm, at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Avenue at Seneca Street, Downstairs enter on Seneca Street, Seattle; How do we change the American dream from a society that chooses poorly-planned, sprawling development to one that prefers compact, walkable, well-designed neighborhoods? Carol Coletta, CEO of CEOs for Cities and the host of the syndicated radio program Smart City, explores how to harness our common interests to create vibrant landscapes while conserving critical landscapes in a lecture entitled "DESIGN FOR LIVABILITY: CHANGING THE AMERICAN DREAM." Presented by the Cascade Land Conservancy, Allied Arts, and the American Institute of Architects. Tickets are $10/ $5 Town Hall, AIA, Allied Arts & CLC members. info http://www.cascadeagenda.com or 206-905-6862

Friday, September 19, 2008

Weekends are the best

Hey there, some quick opportunties before I leave for the day.

Here is a workshop I plan to go to and it is a really great opportunity to learn about fundraising and diversity programs, if that has anything to do with your job you should check it out and let me know if you go.

Register today for AFP Washington’s eagerly-anticipated workshop, "Making Diversity a Strategic Advantage in Fundraising" from 1:30pm - 4:30pm on October 2, 2008 at the Seattle Sheraton. Ten percent of counties in America are already "majority-minority", in which the combined population of minorities exceeds the majority population. Including diverse communities will always be a matter of social justice, yet it is increasingly an economic necessity as well. Is your organization ready to meet this challenge? Sponsor support has helped us bring nationally-acclaimed speaker and author Tracy Brown to Seattle. You'll learn and enjoy an interactive workshop from a respected leader in the field. Tracy’s workshops have generated a lot of buzz at AFP international conferences where she combines information, insight and perspective with a wonderful sense of humor. Audiences love her and her important message. Register for this workshop with your peers - leaders in fundraising and non-profit management! You'll learn how to better understand new voices and new points of view in organizational leadership, staff, clients and donors. Inclusiveness and social justice relate to upcoming trends in diversity and fundraising demographics that directly impact your organization's bottom line. The AFP Diversity Workshop, "Making Diversity a Strategic Advantage in Fundraising," is presented in partnership with the Black Philanthropy Trust’s Northwest Regional Conference on Black Philanthropy in Seattle. The AFP Diversity Workshop is a key element of the first day of this major conference, yet has it own registration and sponsorship opportunities. Sponsor support has also helped make the AFP Diversity Workshop available to members and non-members alike for the affordable and special low rate of $15 per person. This is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field, Tracy Brown, in downtown Seattle. The deadline is fast approaching, please contact AFP Washington Chapter Office today to register for this unique opportunity at afp@sbims.com, 206-367-8704 or click HERE to register online.

Here are some other ways to volunteer in the community that struck my fancy:

Seattle Public Library Book Sale
The Friends of The Seattle Public Library will hold their Fall 2008 Book Sale on the weekend of September 26-28 at Magnuson Park. Volunteers are still needed at most shifts, so please let us know if you can help.

The volunteer shifts are:

Thursday 9/25 (setting up tables and moving boxes of books into the hangar):
1) 5 to 9 PM

Friday 9/26:
1) 9 AM to 3 PM (continue with set-up)
2) 6:30 to 9:30 PM (Friday evening members' preview sale)

Saturday 9/27:
1) 9 AM to 1 PM
2) 1 PM to 5 PM

Sunday 9/28: 11 AM to 4 PM

Monday 9/29 (clean-up):
1) 8:30 AM to 1 PM
2) Noon to 4 PM

Tuesday 9/30 (clean-up): 9 AM to 1 PM

During the Book Sale, we need help with monitoring entrances/exits, restocking tables, counting books before patrons go to cashiers, handling will call and assisting patrons.

To sign up, visit our website: www.splfriends.org
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Arboretum Tour Guide and Saplings School Program Guide
Introduce the public to the Arboretum and its collections through 60-90 minute tours. Tour themes include seasonal interest, history and ecology of Foster Island, native plants and ethnobotany. A background in botany, ecology or horticulture is helpful. Teaching experience is a plus!
Volunteers lead guided tours during the week or on weekends. You should be willing to work in inclement weather and have time to attend training and enrichment programs. Commitment of two tours per month on a seasonal or year-round basis.
Contact:Shawna Hartung, WPA Education Coordinator, 206-543-8801 or shlea@u.washington.edu

WPA Saplings School Program Guide
Lead 90-minute, hands-on programs for school groups in grades K-12. Program topics include Discover Plants, Life Cycle of Plants, Wetland Ecology Walks and Native Plants and People. Guide training is offered prior to each Saplings season in the fall and spring. You should enjoy working with children, be willing to work in inclement weather, and have time to attend training and enrichment programs. Commitment of one program per week during the three-month fall and spring seasons. To learn more, read the job description.
Contact:Shawna Hartung, WPA Education Coordinator, 206-543-8801 or shlea@u.washington.edu
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Seattle Parks and Recreation
Opportunities for environmental service abound! Please visit the Seattle Parks and Recreation website for a full listing of community work parties in your neighborhood:

http://www.seattle.gov/parks/volunteers/workparty.htm

Also check out the “CLEAN & GREEN SEATTLE INITIATIVE”
http://www.seattle.gov/mayor/issues/cleanseattle.htm
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One America (formerly Hate Free Zone)
OneAmerica advances the fundamental principles of democracy and justice at the local, state and national levels by building power within immigrant communities in collaboration with key allies. OneAmerica operates under the fundamental premise that voices spoken together are stronger. That's why we work to build coalitions between immigrant communities and mainstream communities. Although the burden of policies that erode constitutional and civil rights is falling primarily on immigrant communities, we know that all people are affected.

Civic Engagement Volunteer needed for Canvassing and Phone Banking at various dates and times. In this position, a volunteer will engage in the following activities/roles/tasks: Voter outreach, which will be done through phone calls and door-to-door canvassing Voter education Get-out-the-vote work through visibility events and Election Day publicity.

Contact: Erin Haick
Erin@weareoneamerica.org
206.723.2203 ext209
1227 S Weller St Seattle, WA 98144
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Have a lovely weekend!

Thursday, September 18, 2008

The Flu in Sept.

So my luck is kind of ridiculous. I ended up with the flu in September right around my birthday. Totally unfair although it gives me some much needed time to bond with my house. So far I have watched 15 million movies in the last few days and I have renewed my connection with daytime television. I get up in the morning looking forward to The View- which is actually a great show :)

So now that I became an expert on daytime television, I figure I should let you know I am also a fan of MSNBC, and I have been intimately following the economic crisis and politics. So many emotions in one day, it's a good thing I am sick and can't taste or feel anything :)

Ok enough about my predicament, here are some opportunities to engage:

Call for ISB Enterprise Architecture Committee Nominations The Enterprise Architecture Committee, a committee reporting to the Washington State Information Services Board (ISB), is soliciting applications for a vacancy on the committee. The selected applicant would serve a two-year term, ending in October 2010. Committee Purpose The ISB Enterprise Architecture Committee was formed to establish, direct and govern the state of Washington's enterprise architecture program. The Committee seeks proactive opportunities to build an enterprise architecture that guides and optimizes state information technology resources. Committee Goals Guide efforts to plan, design, and implement an enterprise architecture program for Washington state government; Establish an architecture baseline, gather business drivers, develop and maintain a target architecture and implementation plan; Develop enterprise architecture principles, processes, policies, standards and guidelines; and Establish alignment between the architecture and the state strategic IT plan and the priorities of state government. Location The ISB EA Committee meets alternate Wednesdays in the Forum Building Boardroom, which is located at 605 11th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501. Who May Apply Applicants must be state employees. This includes the Executive Branch, Judicial Branch, Legislative Branch, or separately elected officials. Applicants must be information technology managers/executives who hold a position equivalent to Chief Information Officer or higher. Desired Qualifications Applicants should have: Knowledge of Enterprise Architecture. The ability to think strategically. The ability to represent an enterprise perspective, not just an agency perspective. The ability to participate in board settings open to the public. An interest in developing and championing the Enterprise Architecture Program. The ability to support a significant time commitment is required for bi-monthly board meetings and preparation (12 - 16 hrs. per month). Preparation includes review of deliverables produced by Documenter Teams who provide expert knowledge on specific enterprise initiatives. How To Apply Applicants should submit to Committee Co-Chair, Frank Westrum: 1)a resume, 2)cover letter that expresses your interest and qualifications, and 3)an endorsement letter from your agency director indicating support for your participation and time commitment. Please e-mail your application to frank.westrum@doh.wa.gov, (ph: (360) 236-3105) by October 6, 2008. For more information about the committee, please visit the ISB Enterprise Architecture Committee Web site at: http://isb.wa.gov/committees/enterprise/index.aspx

SpringBoard Leadership Series (Seattle)


The Young Leadership Division’s fourth annual SpringBoard Leadership Series engages and trains young adults for volunteerism and leadership in the Jewish community. Participants learn about political advocacy and activism, Jewish communal fundraising, serving on a board, combating anti-Semitism and more. This leadership series consists of eight seminars led by local and national leaders.

APPLY FOR THE SPRINGBOARD LEADERSHIP SEMINAR

For more information, please visit www.JewishinSeattle.org/YLD.
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2009 King County Budget On October 13, 2008,the King County Council will begin its deliberations for the 2009 budget. According to the KC Budget and Management Office, due to the poor economic forecast and a structural gap between our mandated responsibilities, King County’s deficit in 2009 is estimated at over $90 million. I encourage your participation in the discussions about the 2009 budget. You can email both myself or the entire Council with your opinions and ideas or come to the public budget forums listed below. · Tuesday, October 14, 2008 – Pacific Cascade Freshman Campus, 24635 Southeast Issaquah Fall City Road, Issaquah· Thursday, October 16, 2008 – Maleng Regional Justice Center, Courtroom 3F, 401 4th Avenue North, Kent· Tuesday, October 21, 2008 – Finn Hill Junior High School, 8040 Northeast 132nd Street, Kirkland· Thursday, October 23, 2008 – Shoreline Conference Center, Shoreline Room, 18560 1st Avenue Northeast, Shoreline · Tuesday, October 28, 2008 – King County Council Chambers, 516 Third Avenue, Room 1200, Seattle· Monday, November 10, 2008 – King County Council Chambers, 516 Third Avenue, Room 1200, Seattle, starting at 1:30 p.m.
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The City of Bellevue is currently recruiting members for the Network on Aging. Members serve for a term of two years with a commitment of six to 12 hours per month. Members must live, work or serve older adults in Bellevue, and 51% of the group must be over 50 years of age. Applications are due by 5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3. Our goals: Effectively serve older adults in Bellevue; Communicate older adult needs and provide a forum for that communication; Strengthen community outreach to inform and connect older adults with the necessary resources; Create a unified voice for older adults in Bellevue; Create an environment that makes Bellevue a livable community where older adults have the ability to age in place. Bellevue is a great place to grow up and grow old; Gain respect and knowledge of older adults in Bellevue; Set the standard in the region for older adult services through an Annual Forum of Regional Senior Services providers; Create a regional approach to serving older adults. Contact: Cathy VonWald at 425-452-7681.
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What: The 2008 Transnational Trivia Championship

Where: Seattle Center: Fisher Pavilion

When: October 10th, 7:00pm to 10:00pm

Why: To support the World Affairs Council through the most entertaining fundraiser of the year, featuring a catered buffet-style dinner, free drinks, and super fun globally-focused trivia!

Teams of six play for great prizes, which include an 8GB Zune media player for members of the winning team.

There will also be a Round the World raffle with a chance to win two trips to Europe with Rick Steves’ Europe through the Back Door—plane tickets included. Only $20 a ticket!

How Much: $40 per person! (Click here for upgraded seating, champagne, or chocolate desserts for your team)

Monday, September 15, 2008

Events= Fun/ Learning= Civic Engagement

Sorry for no blog on Friday but it was my birthday and I was celebrating early!

Ok so today's blog is all about events and bringing people together. You know you have wanted to meet some interesting folks doing cool things in Seattle. Well, civic engagement and public service extends to both business and social events in the area. So go check out a forum, a happy hour, or some live music but take the time to get to know some new folks in your community.

Enjoy the day

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Ok this is a last minute event... aka tonight. But it will be great, Garrison Keillor is speaking about his new book which should be a really excellent event at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 Eighth Avenue.

We are thoroughly delighted to welcome back one of this country's geniuses of language, and the central place of stories and the occasional joke in everyday life, Garrison Keillor. In addition to hosting A Prairie Home Companion on an almost-weekly basis for thirty years and more now, and writing seventeen books, Garrison Keillor is also among the foremost author bookstore owners we have amongst us—joining Louise Erdrich and Larry McMurtry, to name a few others. Owning a bookstore (St. Paul's Common Good Books) is not the reason for this evening's visit; Garrison Keillor's new Lake Wobegon novel, Liberty (Viking) is the reason to be on hand for another entertaining evening, which may even have a moment of ribald humor and/or hinted-at political jesting in store for those attending. This tale has something to do with the Fourth of July parade, Lake Wobegon's famous 'Living Flag,' Clint Bunsen, and Miss Liberty. Last year's evening for Pontoon is a wonder; this evening should be no less. Please join us. Tickets are $5 and available at Elliott Bay or via Brown Paper Tickets (www.brownpapertickets.com). Town Hall Seattle is located at 1119 Eighth Avenue (at Seneca). For more information on this evening, please call Elliott Bay at (206) 624-6600.
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Next cool event:

TeachStreet Teacher Happy Hour 9/16/2008
If you're a teacher (or just a TeachStreet fanatic!) in the Seattle area on September 16th, come join us for a casual happy hour (free beer if you come between 7-7:30pm) and share with other teachers how you've built your business. We'll provide some Start Time: 7pm-9pmLocation: 103 Cherry Street; Seattle, WA 98103Cost: FreeContact: Joseph Sunga (206) 381-0652Sponsored by: TeachStreet.com Website: http://www.teachstreet.comEmail: joseph@teachstreet.com

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CodeBlueNow! Health Care Town Meeting 9/18/2008
Join us as we launch of the Voters’ Health Care Platform, with former Governors Arne Carlson, Richard Lamm, and moderator C.R. Douglas of the Seattle Channel. Go to http://www.codebluenow.org/solve-the-problem/health-care-town-hall/ for details. Start Time: 7:00 pmLocation: Bell Harbor Conference Center Pier 66, 2211 Alaskan Way, SeattleCost: General public: $10, Students: FREE (w/ ID)Contact: Andrea San Miguel (206) 217-9430Sponsored by: CodeBlueNow! Website: http://codebluenow.orgEmail: andrea@codebluenow.org
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Seattle Presents MangoSon - Cuban, Dominican & Venezuelan music 9/18/2008
The musical styles of Cuban son, Dominican merengue, cumbia, and Venezuelan parranda played so authentically the music smells of sweet rum, black beans and plantains. Start Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.Location: Seattle City Hall Lobby, 600 Fourth AveCost: FreeContact: Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs (206) 684-7171Website: http://www.seattle.gov/arts/events/calendar.asp?d=18&m=9&y=2008

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Fishermen's Fall Festival 9/20/2008
20th Annual Fishermen's Fall Festival is a FREE event celebrating our local fishing fleet. A benefit for Seattle Fishermen's Memorial, Fishermen's Fall Festival features industry related exhibits & competitions, fundraising salmon barbeque, & more. Start Time: 11amLocation: Fishermen's Terminal, 1900 W. Nickerson, at the sound end of the Ballard Bridge, Seattle, WACost: FREEContact: Dean Paglialunga 206-283-4665Sponsored by: Anthony's Restaurants and Seattle Fishermen's Memorial Website: http://www.anthonys.comEmail: bbratsberg@ballardbratsberg.com
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2008 NORTHWEST CONFERENCE ON BLACK PHILANTHROPY - CREATING CHANGE NOT CHARITY - OCTOBER 2-4, 2008 Hosted by Black Philanthropy Trust, in coorperation with the National Center for Black Philanthropy Lunch Speaker - Omar Wasow, Founder BlackPlanet.com Dinner Speaker - Dr. Elson Flyod, President Washington State University TO REGISTER: http://www.blackphilanthropytrust.org ____________________________________________
Create Connections at Safeco Insurance Festál: CroatiaFest Celebrate the heritage of the region's Croatian American community and explore the beauty and enchantment of the Jewel of the Adriatic at Safeco Insurance Festál: CroatiaFest, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., October 4 and 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m., October 5, at Center House. Celebrating its 5th anniversary with a theme of "Croatian Hands at Work," the festival presents Croatian dance instruction, arts and crafts displays, a genealogy lecture, children's workshops, an authentic marketplace and special foods to entice festivalgoers to discover what makes Croatia such a vital and distinctive region of the world. Safeco Insurance Festál: CroatiaFest features an impressive roster of regional artists and ensembles representing regions, traditions and stages of Croatian history, including: Dave and the Dalmatians (traditional klapa men's vocal ensemble) KlapaDooWopella (traditional klapa men's vocal ensemble) Radost Children's Ensemble (folk dance of Eastern Europe) Ruže Dalmatinke Orchestra (folk songs of Croatia and Bosnia) Seattle Junior Tamburitzans (Croatian youth folk dance ensemble) Vela Luka Croatian Dance Ensemble (folk dance of Croatia from Anacortes, WA) Pam Kelley and Melissa Obenauf, co-founders and directors of Ohio's Živili Dance Company, teach Croatian folk dances and kolos, 6:00 p.m. to 10 p.m., October 4. John Sarich, Culinary Director at Chateau Ste. Michele offers cooking demonstrations during the festival. Sunday evening concludes with a Croatian song-a-long by Sinovi Tamburitzans (traditional tamburica orchestra). The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra and Bravo! Vancouver Chorale perform at noon, October 5, on Center House Stage. On this first concert tour to the Pacific Northwest, the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra presents a variety of classical and contemporary European and American works for orchestra and chorus in a collaboration that seeks to create greater international good will and understanding. Did you know? Renowned Indian filmmaker Dev Anand's upcoming Bollywood film, the love story of an Indian hero and Croatian girl, was filmed in Croatia. The film's release is expected to make Croatia a dream destination for Indian tourists, expanding Croatia's already booming tourist industry. Anand fell in love with this picturesque country during a trip in 2006. For more information on Safeco Insurance Festál: CroatiaFest as well as a complete listing of Seattle Center festival events, click on http://www.croatiafest.org or visit the Safeco Insurance Festál website at: http://www.seattlecenter.com/festal.