July 2008
| Event Start Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 07/01/2008 | Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at 7:00 PM
Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Co-sponsored by Social Action Committee of the Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church One of the best known and extreme cases of oil exploitation in the rainforest is in Ecuador, where the U.S. oil giant, Texaco (later Chevron-Texaco), seriously degraded an ecosystem over a 30-year period. In 2001 a class-action lawsuit was brought against Chevron) for dumping 18 billion gallons of toxic wastewater in the Amazon. In April 2008 an Ecuadorian court-appointed expert set damages against Chevron at between $7 billion and $16 billion, one of the worlds largest ever compensation payouts, dwarfing the damages resulting from the Exxon Valdez disaster. Speaking on this topic are two people who have had close personal experience in the Amazon rainforest. Lou Dematteis is co-author of Crude Reflections: Oil, Ruin and Resistance in the Amazon Rainforest, a photographic book that chronicles the human and environmental impact of Texacos oil drilling in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Dematteis will present a slide show of photos from the book. Steve Harms is Senior Pastor at Peace Lutheran Church in Danville. In 2003 he traveled with two other clergy and a union leader to the Amazon, where they saw many open, toxic waste sites, "remediated sites", and the pipeline itself. Suggested donation: $12 - $20 General, $5 Students (No one turned away for lack of funds) Wheel chair accessible A book sale and signing will follow the presentation. |
| 07/01/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents The Next Presidents Great Challenge: Re-Introducing America to the World
In his new book America: Our Next Chapter, Senator Hagel, unafraid to challenge the policies of his own party, outspoken, praised and admired from across the political spectrum for expressing grave concerns about the war in Iraq, and a thoughtful leader, sets forth his vision for a humbler US foreign policy guided by international diplomacy and free trade and calls for a significant reduction in the size of the federal government, more fiscal responsibility in Washington, and reforms to reduce the spiraling costs of entitlement programsall great challenges the next president must confront. Check-in: 11:45 AM; Program: 12:30 PM Fairmont Hotel atop Nob Hill, Gold Room 950 Mason Street San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Member Standard Seating: $20, Nonmember Standard Seating: $45 Member Premium Seating: $35, Nonmember Premium Seating: $60 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/04/2008 | The 19th International Annual Conference of the
Iranian Women's Studies Foundation The essential Needs of The Iranian Woman July 4-6, 2008 Wheeler Auditorium University of California, Berkeley Despite a myriad of social and legal setbacks in the last thirty years where Iranian women lost many of the rights they had attained in the past 100 years, they have continuously strived to improve their social and political status. Consequently they have established their presence in different spheres of life, particularly that of civil society. This conference will examine the socio-political needs of the Iranian woman in regards to ethnicity, gender, religion, class background, sexuality, and sexual orientation. he Iranian Women's Studies Foundation (IWSF) is a non-profit organization. It has no affiliation to any political or religious group or organization, and aims to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas on issues related to Iranian women, to disseminate information on Iranian women's achievements, and to establish a network of communication among communities of Iranian women the world over. For more information about our conference and how to register please visit us at www.IWSF.org Email: iwsf2008@yahoo.com Telephone: 1-408-317-2240 Fax: 1-650-386-5170 Mailing Address: IWSF P.O.Box 16102 Oakland, CA 94610 USA |
| 07/08/2008 | Marwan Muasher
Former Deputy Prime Minister, Jordan; Author, The Arab Center Is there any hope for moderate voices in the Arab world? Many international leaders and scholars agree that compromise and centrist policies will help to broker peace and stability in the Middle East, but religious and political extremism has been growing. Muasher served as Jordan's first ambassador to Israel and as ambassador to the U.S. He will discuss the importance of and the challenges facing moderates in the Arab world. Location: Club Office; 595 Market St., 2nd Floor Time: 5:30 p.m. reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing Cost: $12 members, $18 non-members |
| 07/08/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents Inside Workings of the Largest International Police Organization INTERPOL
Are you curious about the intricacies of combating international crime and facilitating world-wide police even where diplomatic relations do not exist between particular countries? Secretary General of INTERPOL, Ronald Noble, paints a picture into this intriguing international organization as the leader to have reorganized INTERPOLs activities with impressive results. Recently, some of the Secretary Generals most important tasks have been providing forensic examination of materials seized during a raid on a FARC rebel camp in Columbia and assisting in the pursuit of pedophiles around the world. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/09/2008 | The Coming Century of Liberty
David Boaz, Executive Vice President, Cato Institute; Author, The Politics of Freedom A key figure in the libertarian movement, Boaz surveys what he sees as the threats to freedom from the Bush administration and the current presidential candidates. Though he is frustrated with many of the candidates' positions, he remains optimistic about the future of civil and economic liberties. But he says that the future of freedom requires that Americans devote considerable effort to preserving and protecting these rights. Location: Club Office, 595 Market St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco Time: 5:30 p.m. reception, 6 p.m. program Cost: $12 members, $18 non-members, $7 students (with valid ID) |
| 07/12/2008 | Practical Wisdom For Getting The Most Out of Your Life This transformative evening will include instruction in breathing techniques, guided meditation, and a wisdom session with His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. In this session His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will share a powerful approach to living artfully, drawing upon the practices of pranayama; meditation; and profound insight on relationships, health, fulfilling your potential, and how to stay calm even when life seems to be moving fast. His work around the Globe: HIS HOLINESS SRI SRI RAVI SHANKAR is a leading figure in personal and social transformation whose work has inspired a global phenomenon of compassion and service. His numerous contributions include: - Peace initiatives in Iraq - Trauma relief for American veterans - Disaster relief in New Orleans - Youth leadership programs in New York - Personal development and health programs in over 140 countries around the world He is the founder of the Art of Living Foundation and the International Association for Human Values; these volunteer-run organizations have improved the quality of life for 30 million people around the world. Known for his deep insight, endearing presence and his quick wit, Sri Sri is an invited speaker at various forums all over the world, including: - European Parliament - International Court of Justice in the Hague - World Economic Forum - National Institute for Mental Health - National Press Club in Washington D.C. - Harvard Divinity School - United Nations Course dates: July 12, 2008 6.30PM Venue: Marriott Grand Ballroom SW Naito Parkway, Portland, OR 97205 |
| 07/12/2008 | FUNDRAISER FOR LOCAL CODEPINK East Bay Chapter&
Soul Presents: 1st. Annual "PINK AND BLACK BALL" WHERE: Redwood Gardens -2951 Derby St. Berkeley, Calif. WHEN: Saturday July 12th, 2008 Doors open 6:00pm/show starts 7:00pm. Cost: $20.00 at door..sliding scale, food included with Event! This will be a Gala tossed salad Event... Also There Will Be "Silent Auction" With Art And Crafts Made By Local Codepink Activist And Other Artists From Bay-Area Featuring: V.E.R.A CLIQUE, Clara Bellino,D-SAVVY, D.J Shuggah(Berkeley Liberation Radio), Becky(Code Pink) and other Artist to get you to Stand up and DANCE! Find your Ball gowns, Suits and take your shoes off for this Gala Event!!! Mistress of Ceremony: Soul (Berkeley Liberation Radio/Code Pink) |
| 07/12/2008 | Soul Presents: 1st. Annual\"Pink and Black Ball\"
WHERE: Redwood Gardens -2951 Derby St. Berkeley, Calif. WHEN: Saturday July 12th, 2008 Doors open 6:00pm/show starts 7:00pm. Cost: $20.00 at door..sliding scale, food included with Event! This will be a Gala tossed salad Event... Fundraiser for local CodePINK Berkeley... Also there will be \"Silent Auction\" with Art and Crafts made by Local CodePINK Activist and other Artists from Bay-area Featuring: V.E.R.A CLIQUE, Clara Bellino,D-SAVVY, D.J Shuggah(Berkeley Liberation Radio), Becky(Code Pink) and other Artist to get you to Stand up and DANCE! Mistress of Ceremony: Soul (Berkeley Liberation Radio/Code Pink) Find your Ball gowns, Suits and take your shoes off for this Gala Event!!! |
| 07/13/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents East Bay Summer Program: Spies, Murder, and the Dark Side of the New Russia
In 1999, a series of bizarre deaths began unfolding in Russia. Since Vladimir Putin came to power, thirteen Russian journalists have been killed one after another. How has a man so often criticized as czarist, corrupt, despotic, and deceitful managed to uphold the support of the Russian people? The re-emerging Russia is more formidable as an economic power than a military power, but it is not a threat to be dismissed. Journalist Steve LeVine discusses what the nature of this new Russia and its leaders is and how the United States will respond in the years ahead at a delightful evening of refreshments. Refreshments: 4:30 PM; Program: 5:00-6:00 PM Diablo Country Club 1700 Clubhouse Road Diablo, CA 94528 Appetizers and Program: Members: $12, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/13/2008 | So you want to know more about CodePINK before committing?
Or you\'ve heard strange things and want to check it out? Maybe you\'re ready to become an activist but not quite sure how or with whom? This is the orientation for you! RSVP limited space 510-524-2776 Come learn about CodePINK, see if and where you\'d like to fit in! Then go with everyone to the march over the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge! |
| 07/14/2008 | The Commonwealth Club Presents:
Steve Levine: Putin's Labyrinth, The New Russia Chief Foreign Affairs Writer, BusinessWeek; Author, Putin's Labyrinth LeVine talks about the country Putin helped shape and the problems that plague Russia today. Russia's rich oil reserves are helping the country regain prominence. Under Vladimir Putin and his sucessor, Dmitry Medvedev, nationalism has grown as well. Is it a return to Soviet-era systems and beliefs? Or has the nation moved into a different paradigm? LeVine says the country is stained by a "culture of death," from assassinations of state critics to possible Kremlin indifference in hostage crises. Location: Club Office, 595 Market Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco Time: 5:30 p.m. wine and cheese reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing Cost: MEMBERS FREE, $18 non-members Reservations: (415) 597-6705 or www.commonwealthclub.org |
| 07/15/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents After Bush: The Case for Continuity in American Foreign Policy Come listen to a fascinating perspective on why Bushs foreign policy can be beneficial and should continue. Author Timothy Lynch counters the dogma of Bushs detractors and ideological opponents, arguing that Bushs policy belongs within the mainstream of the American foreign policy tradition. Further, he suggests that there will, and should, be continuity in US foreign policy from his presidency to those of his successors and that the key elements of Bushs grand strategy will continue to shape the American approach in the future. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/15/2008 | One Brilliant Evening with BARBARA EHRENREICH
The bestselling author of Nickel and Dimed, Bait and Switch, and Global Woman, (and brilliant feminist member of Progressives for Obama) discusses her new book This Land Is Their Landand clarifies the Obama phenomenon and the onrushing tide of change First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison St (at 27th St), Oakland. (free parking, wheelchair access) Benefit: KPFA Radio 94.1FM Sponsored by KPFA & Moes Books Tickets: $10 at supportive bookstores & on line: www.kpfa.org, $13 door Information: 510.848.6767x609 As evidenced by her bestsellers Nickel and Dimed and Bait and Switch, journalist and cultural historian Barbara Ehrenreich has consistently and effectively been an advocate for the poor and the middle class. In her latest book, THIS LAND IS THEIR LAND: Reports from a Divided Nation (Metropolitan) she masterfully articulates the hardships and hypocrisies facing the suffocating majority of the population. Through a compilation of essays and blog entries on a myriad of issues including health care, employment, stem cells, and finances, THIS LAND IS THEIR LAND provides readers with cutting and provocative social commentary on the Bush years. As Ehrenreich says, "The looting of America has gone on too long, and the average American is too maxed out, overworked and overspent to have anything left& We need a new deal, a new distribution of power and wealth, if we want to restore the beautiful idea that was 'America.'" The author of the more than one-million-copy bestseller Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America and the New York Times bestseller Bait and Switch: The (Futile) Pursuit of the American Dream, Ehrenreich is a frequent contributor to Harper's and The Nation. She has been a columnist at The New York Times and Time magazine. "Incisive, definitive&Her scorn withers, her humor stings, and her radical light shines on." The Boston Globe |
| 07/16/2008 | The International Museum of Women presents a provocative evening with Malalai Joya, "the bravest woman in Afghanistan."
WHERE: Omni San Francisco Hotel 500 California St. WHEN: Reception: 5:00 pm / Program: 6:00 pm HOW: To reserve tickets, visit www.imow.org; call 415.487.6447; email events@imow.org The International Museum of Women welcomes Malalai Joya, youngest elected member of Afghanistans national parliament and past elected delegate for Afghanistans historic constitutional assembly, as the featured speaker in it's Extraordinary Voices, Extraordinary Change Speaker Series program. Proclaimed by the BBC as "the bravest woman in Afghanistan," Joya will share her experiences as a young, popular and infamous woman who has demonstrated the courage to challenge her fellow representatives and stand up and fight for democracy and womens rights. A committed leader, Joya was suspended from her position in Afghanistans national parliament in 2007 for speaking out against her countrys former leaders. The suspension, currently under appeal, sparked international protest. Joyas conviction to bring about change in her country has led to attacks, threats of rape and death, and several assassination attempts. |
| 07/16/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents Never Again: Genocide and the Responsibility to Protect Over and over the international community has promised genocide will NEVER happen again. Lane Montgomery, photographer with the International Rescue Committee, Americares, and other humanitarian organizations, discusses the role of the international community and the responsibility to protect. She has written Never Again, Again, Again, a photographic essay with text on the major genocides in the 20th and 21st. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/17/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents Green Technology: Global Opportunities and Challenges
With the need for green technologies increasing, there are now even more questions than answers. This panel discussion will bring together four leading experts from the venture capital, Andrew Chung, Principal, Lightspeed Venture Partners and Raj Atluru, Managing Director, Draper Fisher Jurvetson; scientific, Daniel Kammen, Founding Director, Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory; and business communities, Hal LaFlash, Director, Emerging Clean Technology Policy, PG&E to offer their perspectives on the outlook for green tech, and the political and economic impact for countries that become green tech leaders versus those that fall behind. Check-in: 6:00 PM; Program: 6:30 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/18/2008 | Friday, July 18, 7:30 pm
Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall 1924 Cedar St. (@Bonita), Berkeley In a month that we focus on patriotism and honor true revolutionaries like Tom Paine and what being a good citizen means, SJC is really pleased to present a great film by local activists Lindsey Vurek and Valerie Trost on our own City Council Member Dona Spring who exemplifies what an elected official can be. Kriss Worthington who we love as well states that Donna has always been the conscience of the Council. Growing up in Montana with a deep love of the earth, she has always championed human, disability, animal rights, public transportation, sustainability and peace on every front with her reserve of integrity, compassion and serenity, even facing a challenging autoimmune disease herself. Wheelchair accessible, donations welcome Part of the BFUU Social Justice Committees Conscientious Projector Film Series Ph: 510-528-5403 or 510-495-5132 |
| 07/19/2008 | Non-violent Civil Disobedience Training
against the Light Brown Apple Moth Trapping & Eradication Program Saturday, July 19th, 2008, 10am-5:30pm 1924 Cedar Street (at Bonita), in Berkeley (scent-free please) Please print out Civil Disobedience Handbook here: http://www.actupny.org/documents/CDdocuments/CDindex.html Or RSVP here: beneficialbug@netzero.net Co-sponsored by East Bay Pesticide Alert / Don't Spray California and the Social Justice Committee of the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists www.BFUU.org www.EastBayPesticideAlert.org |
| 07/19/2008 | The Power of Song
A video biography of Pete Seeger To be shown at the SF Gray Panthers Summer Potluck Party Saturday, July 19, 12 noon to 3 PM 1182 Market St, Room 203 (Corner Market & Hyde, next door to Orpheum Theater) All welcome, bring some food to share, free. Largely misunderstood by his critics, including the US government, for his views on peace, unionism, civil rights and ecology, Seeger was targeted by the communist witch hunt of the Fifties. He was picketed, protested, blacklisted, and, in spite of his enormous popularity, banned from American television for more than 17 years. With a combination of never-before-seen archival footage and personal films made by Seeger and his wife, Pete Seeger, The Power of Song chronicles the life of this legendary artist and political activist. http://graypantherssf.igc.org/calendar.htm#07_19_01 |
| 07/21/2008 | Come to our MMMEG (Monthly Monday Meet, Eat & Greet). Our theme this month is \"Where Have You Been?\"
Several cp\'ers have been traveling around the world. Come there their stories. Share a delicious Mediterranean buffet meal. $23, more if you can, less if you can\'t. No one turned away! @Mudrakers, 6:00pm |
| 07/23/2008 | Wednesday, July 23, 2008, 7:00 PM
Screening of "Occupation 101" (90 min.) Mt. Diablo Peace & Justice Center, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek; 925-933-7850 A thought-provoking and powerful documentary film on the current and historical root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Unlike any other film ever produced on the conflict, Occupation 101 presents a comprehensive analysis of the facts and hidden truths surrounding the never-ending controversy and dispels many of its long-perceived myths and misconceptions. The film also details life under Israeli military rule, the role of the United States in the conflict, and the major obstacles that stand in the way of a lasting and viable peace. The roots of the conflict are explained through first-hand on-the-ground experiences from leading Middle East scholars, peace activists, journalists, religious leaders and humanitarian workers whose voices have too often been suppressed in American media outlets. Free; Wheelchair accessible; free refreshments |
| 07/24/2008 | TITLE: Van Jones and Senator Darrell Steinberg: Green for All
SPEAKERS: DARRELL STEINBERG, California State Senator; Incoming President Pro Tem, California Senate VAN JONES, Founder and CEO, Green for All DATE: Thursday, July 24, 2008 TIME: 6 p.m., Check-In | 6:30 p.m., Program | 7:30 p.m. wine and hors d'oeuvres reception PLACE: Club Office, 595 Market St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco Directly outside of the Montgomery BART station. PRICE: $12 members, $20 non-members, $7 students (with valid ID) Reservations (415) 597-6705 or register at www.commonwealthclub.org How can green-color job development help the economy and the environment? Could "green-collar" jobs clean the "dirty-energy economy" and lift people out of poverty? In the past, job creation and protecting the environment have been, some say, mutually exclusive. But in 2007, the Green Jobs Act and the founding of Green for All, an organization that focuses on green job training, marked the beginning of a movement to redefine economic growth. Is it possible to reconcile these historic opposites? Senator Steinberg and Green for All founder Jones talk about green economic development and its potential. Underwritten by 11th Hour Project INFORUM is a division of The Commonwealth Club by and for people in their 20s and 30s, with a mission to inspire debate around civic issues. INFORUM has 2,500 members. |
| 07/24/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents The Secret World of Intelligence Outsourcing
Outsourcing has increased in government intelligence gathering. In recent years, intelligence contracting has grown into a private industry often blurring the lines between public and private sectors. In his new book, Spies for Hire, investigative journalist Tim Shorrock discusses the largely, unexaminded size, scope, and influence of this intelligence outsourcing and how sometimes it is at odds with congressional oversight and public accountability. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Admission Costs: Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/24/2008 | Join the Women of Color Resource Center's
PeaceGAMES Community Launch Thursday, July 24, 6:00-8:00pm FREE East Side Arts Alliance 2277 International Blvd, Oakland, CA Snacks & short program. Youth, educators, organizers, community members welcome! For more info: 510-444-2700 x305 We are so excited about our new popular education curriculum & we are celebrating its release with a community launch party. Come learn about our newest curriculum with other educators, teachers, students, organizers and community members. Learn what a valuable tool PeaceGAMES can be in your classroom or community. |
| 07/25/2008 | Screening of The Good War and Those Who Refused to Fight It
Friday, July 25, 7:30 pm Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall 1924 Cedar (@ Bonita), Berkeley "The Good War and Those Who Refused to Fight It is a fascinating film by local award-winning filmmaker Judith Ehrlich (who will be present) on the conscientious objectors of World War II and the difference they made. Though Lew Hill who founded KPFA and BFUU friend Richard Challacombe are not mentioned in it, this film shows the wide-ranging contributions to social change that resistance offers. Richard will be present along with Judith. Discussion to follow. Presented by BFUU Social Justice Ctees Conscientious Projector Film Series Wheelchair accessible, donations welcomed for our on-going social justice work www.bfuu.org Phone contact: 510-528-5403 or 510-495-5132 |
| 07/26/2008 | SATURDAY, JULY 26th at 10:00am in front of the CodePINK office at 1248 Solano ave! We need your treasures! Downsizing? Want to contribute to CodePINK East Bay but don\'t have the cash? We need your quality household donations for our Benefit Garage Sale! Bring household items like kitchenware, small furniture, linens, antiques & art, jewelry, books, cds, dvds, rugs, unusual memorabilia to the CodePINK Office, 1248 Solano Ave., Albany. Or call Leeza (after 9:00am)at 510-845-6156 or email leeza777 (at) msn (dot) com to let us know what you\'re contributing and if you need help picking stuff up. PLEASE no heavy appliances, sofas, beds, unsellable stuff! Limit clothes too! IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO PARTICIPATE BECAUSE YOU WORK, THIS IS A GREAT WAY TO SUPPORT US. |
| 07/28/2008 | Thinking About the Future
What will it take to protect our country against this new breed of enemy as terrorists that cannot easily be seen? As a retired military officer, a popular media commentator on both television and radio and the author of more than 20 books, numerous essays on strategy for military journals such as Armed Forces Journal, and his travels to trouble spots, Ralph Peters ponders his thoughts on the future of our world in his new book A Brief History of the Future. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM Marines Memorial Association 609 Sutter Street San Francisco, CA 94102 Free to all. For more information, please visit our website https://www.marineclub.com/Events/RalphPeters/index.htm, call us at 415-673-6672 ext 229 or ext 215, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 07/28/2008 | TITLE: The Future of the Republican Party
SPEAKERS: Ron Nehring, Chairman, California Republican Party Devin Nunes, U.S. Representative (R-CA) Meredith Turney, Legislative Liaison, Capital Resource Family Impact Nicholas Romero, Communications Director, California Young Americans for Freedom; Managing Editor, FlashReport John Wildermuth, Political Reporter, San Francisco Chronicle - Moderator DATE: Monday, July 28, 2008 TIME: 6 p.m., Check-In | 6:30 p.m., Program | 7:30 p.m. wine and hors d'oeuvres reception PLACE: Club Office, 595 Market St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco Directly outside of the Montgomery BART station. PRICE: FREE members, $18 non-members Reservations (415) 597-6705 or register at www.commonwealthclub.org In the wake of a major power shift in Washington, does the Republican Party need to reinvent itself? Experts weigh in. The bourgeoning neoconservative movement in the U.S. these days has the potential to either split the Republican Party in two or launch it into a new era, say some people. Having lost control of both the House and the Senate in the last election, the Republican Party needs to reassess its image and values to broaden its appeal to voters, according to some. Should the Party reinvent itself, or instead re-energize around its core values? Come hear GOP elected officials discuss the issues facing the party and their visions for its future. INFORUM is a division of The Commonwealth Club by and for people in their 20s and 30s, with a mission to inspire debate around civic issues. INFORUM has 2,500 members. |
August 2008
| Event Start Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 08/07/2008 | World Affairs Council Presents The Costs of Preventing the Next Attack - The Implications of America's War on Terror
Has America's "War on Terror" turned into a war on American ideals and its international standing? Since the pursuit of international terrorists, many have argued that the US has suffered incalculable losses in terms of the country's moral and political standing in the world. In The Dark Side, Jane Mayer, journalist for The New Yorker covering the Bin Laden family and extraordinary rendition, recounts how America has fought the War on Terror and explores its implications for our security and freedom. Check-in: 5:30 PM; Program: 6:00 PM World Affairs Council Auditorium 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 Council Members: Free, Students: $5, Nonmembers: $15 For more information, please visit our website http://www.itsyourworld.org, call us at 415-293-4600, or email info@wacsf.org. |
| 08/08/2008 | An Evening of Crucial Disclosures by Jane Mayer
THE DARK SIDE: The Inside Story of How The War on Terror Became a War on American Ideals First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way at Durant, (free parking, wheelchair access) Benefit: KPFA Radio 94.1FM Tickets: $10 at supportive bookstores & on line: www.kpfa.org, $13 door WHAT THE CIA DOESNT WANT YOU TO KNOW The Sunday after September 11, 2001 Vice President Dick Cheney sat down for an interview with Tim Russert on Meet the Press. Cheney said: Well have to work sort of the dark side, if you will. Weve got to spend time in the shadows in the intelligence world. A lot of what needs to be done here will have to be done quietly, without any discussion, using sources and methods that are available to our intelligence agencies if we are going to be successful. Since 2001 New Yorker reporter Jane Mayer has been investigating and reporting on what the dark side really means. For the first time, she pieces together the full story of how Cheney, and a handful of extraordinarily powerful, but almost unknown lawyers including his Chief of Staff David Addington, took command of the war on terrorism. They seized on the mood of national fear to institute a top secret, covert program that twisted or ignored 221 years of constitutional history. She chronicles how the decisions taken behind closed doors in Washington spiraled out around the world, violated the Constitution, and dramatically hindered the pursuit of Al Qaeda. Jane Mayer is the co-author of two best-selling narrative non-fiction books, LANDSLIDE: THE UNMAKING OF THE PRESIDENT, 1984-1988, and STRANGE JUSTICE: THE SELLING OF CLARENCE THOMAS, the latter of which was a finalist for the National Book Award. She is a staff writer for The New Yorker. Before that, she was a senior writer, front page editor, and first female White House correspondent for The Wall Street Journal. |
| 08/09/2008 | A Water Watcher's Education
Saturday, August 9 - 7:00PM Red Hill Books 401 Cortland Avenue San Francisco 415-648-5331 http://dogearedbooks.com/redhill Jacques Leslie will discuss today's global water situation. Renowned reporter and writer, Mr. Lesilie is uniquely posed to offer what we must understand to create critical, decisive change. He will read from his Harper's Magazine cover story on water scarcity, his book Deep Water, and other recent investigative work. It was water and the damming of water which created the contemporary struggles between our industries and our natural world. The conflicts still rage where they started here at Hetch-Hetchy and continue on globally where the consequences are pertinent to us all. For the last decade Jacques Leslie has been writing narrative nonfiction about the worlds most pressing environmental problems. His Harpers Magazine cover story, Running Dry: What Happens When the World Runs Short of Freshwater? was included in The Best American Science Writing 2001 and was a finalist for the John B. Oakes award in environmental journalism. Leslie continues his exploration of water issues in his book, Deep Water: The Epic Struggle Over Dams, Displaced People, and the Environment, published by Farrar, Straus & Giroux. Deep Water won the J. Anthony Lukas Work-in-Progress Award, was named one of the top science books of the year by Discover Magazine, and was a finalist for the Northern California Book Award in nonfiction. His most recent extended effort is the cover story of Mother Jones Magazines January/February 2008 issue, called The Last Empire: Can the world survive Chinas rush to emulate the American way of life? A letter to the editor called it the best article I've read in the last 10 yearson any subjectin any magazine. |
| 08/13/2008 | Screening of "Amazing Grace"
Wednesday, August 13, 7:30 pm 1924 Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall Cedar (@ Bonita), Berkeley Directed by Michael Apted (best known for his 7 Up documentaries), Amazing Grace is the story of William Wilberforce, elected to the House of Commons at the age of 21, who, over the course of two decades and with the help of an initially small group of associates, took on the establishment and persuaded those in power to end British involvement in the inhuman slave trade. This is an inspiring example of how a small, dedicated group of people can effect a major positive historical change. The title of the film is due to the fact that the famous hymns lyrics were penned by John Newton, a former slave trader turned abolitionist minister, who became a close friend and spiritual mentor of Wilberforce. Presented by BFUU Social Justice Ctees Conscientious Projector Film Series Wheelchair accessible, donations welcomed for our on-going social justice work www.bfuu.org |
| 08/15/2008 | Friday, August 15, 7:30 pm
1924 Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall Cedar (@ Bonita), Berkeley Kids all over the world want to rebel, and close friends Peter Muller (Robert Sean Leonard) and Thomas Berger (Christian Bale), although they're growing up in Nazi Germany, are no different. Their rebellion against conformity took the form of listening and dancing to banned American swing music. As this musical genre was dominated by Jewish and African-American composers, it was of course defined as degenerate by the Nazis. But when an innocent prank forces Peter and Thomas into the Hitler Youth, their friendship and their mutual sense of right and wrong are put to the test. The film pits youthful camaraderie against the seductiveness of populist fascism. The well-choreographed dance sequences are very popular with swing dance enthusiasts, and probably contributed to the swing dance revival in the 90s. Presented by BFUU Social Justice Ctees Conscientious Projector Film Series Wheelchair accessible, donations welcomed for our on-going social justice work www.bfuu.org Phone contact: 510-528-5403 or 510-495-5132 |
| 08/16/2008 | 5th Annual DemocracyFest
August 16-17, 2008 Dulles, VA Join liberal activists from across the country for this weekend-long festival which includes trainings, speakers and entertainment. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to http://www.democracyfest.net |
September 2008
| Event Start Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 09/08/2008 | Youth and Guns: Stopping Violence Before It Starts
Deane Calhoun, Executive Director, Youth Alive Paul Helmke, President, The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence Paul L. Seave, Director, Gang and Youth Violence Policy, Office of the Governor Garen Wintemute, professor of emergency medicine and director of the Violence Prevention Research Program at UC Davis Homicide is the leading cause of death in California for youth ages 15 to 19. How does a community keep youth away from the violence that surrounds them? Our panel will showcase key players who work to reduce the amount of violence against youth in some of the most dangerous places in California. Well learn what works, what doesnt, and how to volunteer your time to help make our state a safer place for youth. Members:FREE Non-Mem:$18 Students:FREE 5:30pm wine & cheese reception, 6pm program Location:The Blue Room at the Commonwealth Club (595 Market St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco) Underwriter: The California Wellness Foundation |
| 09/09/2008 | Bill Press: "Is Conservatism Dead?"
9/09/2008 6:00 PM Progressive radio commentator, columnist and former chair of the California Democratic Party, Author of Spin This, Bush Must Go, and How The Republicans Stole Christmas. John McCain recently said of the Republican Party: "We spent money like a drunken sailor. Although I never really knew a sailor, drunk or sober, with the imagination of my colleagues." Press, a progressive radio commentator, columnist and former chair of the California Democratic Party, believes that the Republicans have been governing exactly the way you expect: if a politician's most basic belief is that government always fails, why would anyone think he'd try to prove otherwise? Press will chronicle the rise and fall of the conservative movement over the past 60 years, from Robert Taft to George W. Bush. Location: Club Office Blue Room Time: 5:30 p.m. reception, 6 p.m. program Cost: $12 members, $18 non-members, $7 students (with valid ID) Also know: Staceys Books is bookseller Bill Press is one of the country's most well-known progressive commentators and resides right in Washington, DC. He is the host of Sirius Radio's syndicated Bill Press Show and writes a syndicated column for Tribune Media. He is articulate, educated, and extremely well-spoken. Press is the former host of CNN's Crossfire and Buchanan and Press. Bill Press is a contributing blogger at The Huffington Post. His previous books include Spin This, Bush Must Go, and How The Republicans Stole Christmas. For Tickets please call (415) 597-6700 or visit our website at http://www.commonwealthclub.org. |
| 09/09/2008 | Bill Press: "Is Conservatism Dead?"
9/09/2008 6:00 PM Progressive radio commentator, columnist and former chair of the California Democratic Party, Author of Spin This, Bush Must Go, and How The Republicans Stole Christmas. John McCain recently said of the Republican Party: "We spent money like a drunken sailor. Although I never really knew a sailor, drunk or sober, with the imagination of my colleagues." Press, a progressive radio commentator, columnist and former chair of the California Democratic Party, believes that the Republicans have been governing exactly the way you expect: if a politician's most basic belief is that government always fails, why would anyone think he'd try to prove otherwise? Press will chronicle the rise and fall of the conservative movement over the past 60 years, from Robert Taft to George W. Bush. Location: Club Office Blue Room Time: 5:30 p.m. reception, 6 p.m. program Cost: $12 members, $18 non-members, $7 students (with valid ID) Also know: Staceys Books is bookseller Bill Press is one of the country's most well-known progressive commentators and resides right in Washington, DC. He is the host of Sirius Radio's syndicated Bill Press Show and writes a syndicated column for Tribune Media. He is articulate, educated, and extremely well-spoken. Press is the former host of CNN's Crossfire and Buchanan and Press. Bill Press is a contributing blogger at The Huffington Post. His previous books include Spin This, Bush Must Go, and How The Republicans Stole Christmas. For Tickets please call (415) 597-6700 or visit our website at http://www.commonwealthclub.org. |
| 09/15/2008 | Farnaz Fassihi: Wall Street Journal Iraq Correspondent
The author and journalist shares the human face of the war in Iraq Iraq: Life Unraveling Farnaz Fassihi, Iraq Correspondent, The Wall Street Journal; Author, Waiting for an Ordinary Day In Conversation with Dory Culver, Associate News Director, KCBS All News 740 AM Every day, we are inundated with images and talk of war in Iraq. But many of us in the U.S. do not see the human side of the conflict, says Fassihi, the everyday people living amidst the bombs, battles and fractured public services. Fassihi has lived with these people and discusses their plight from a rarely heard perspective. Location: Club Office Time: 5:30 p.m. wine and cheese reception, 6 p.m. program, 7 p.m. book signing Cost: MEMBERS FREE, $18 non-members, $7 students (with valid ID) Also know: Underwriter: The Bernard Osher Foundation; In association with the Middle East Membe-led Forum Please visit http://www.commonwealthclub.org or call (415) 597-6700 to purchase tickets or receive more information. |
| 09/16/2008 | Candidate HealthCare Debate
Douglas Holtz-Eakin: Economist; Senior Policy Advisor, 2008 John McCain Presidential Campaign E. Richard Brown: Director, UCLA Center for Health Policy Research; professor, UCLA School of Public Health; Health Policy Advisor, 2008 Barack Obama Presidential Campaign The Future of Our Nations Health Care System: The Candidates Plans Health care is a major issue in the current presidential campaign. Candidates Barack Obama and John McCain have laid out very different visions, and each believes his plan is best for our nations citizenry. Come learn about each plan from the top policy advisors of each candidate, and take the opportunity to ask your own questions and get answers. 5:30pm wine & cheese reception, 6pm program Cost: FREE for all Location: The Blue Room at the Commonwealth Club (595 Market St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco) Underwriter: The California HealthCare Foundation Holtz-Eakin Bio: http://www.leighbureau.com/speaker.asp?id=344 |