War Planner

Dave Robinson, Pax Christi USA's national coordinator, attempts to explain what war looks like firsthand in "Eyewitness from Iraq: War, Conscience and Faith." Robinson recently returned from a trip to Iraq and tonight shares his insights. For more info, contact Susan Francois at 234-1611. St. Andrew's Church, 4919 NE 9th Ave., 7 pm.

THURSDAY MAY 8

Even the most controversial ideas are welcome at Portland State University's agenda-free youth forum, "The Consequences of War." Conflict resolution professor Tom Hastings and other guest speakers provide a background for area students to vent. Fifth Avenue Cinema, Room 92, 510 SW Hall St., 4-6 pm.

How do you rebuild a country decimated by war? Robert Bjerre, who spent six months as a project engineer in Afghanistan, will speak on his work as a house architect and builder and road engineer during Afghanistan's reconstruction. Reedwood Friends Church, 2091 SE Steele St. Potluck at 6:30 pm, presentation at 7:15 pm.

Get a lesson in group dynamics that you won't forget. Oregon Peace Institute member and conflict resolution professor Frances F. Kaplan presents "Conflict Within Groups II: The Hidden Agenda." For info, call 222-3105 or email jodie@orpeace.org. First United Methodist Church, Room 202. 1838 SW Jefferson St., 6:30-8:30 pm. Suggested donation $10.

Join in this Tibetan prayer vigil for individual and world healing. For info, call 222-7172 or 313-6224. Northwest Tibetan Cultural Association Bhodkhang, 6225 NE Stanton St., 7-9 pm.

FRIDAY MAY 9

In a time of war, a night of peace and love is just what we need! Radiant Theatre Productions presents Hair, the 1968 rock musical. Call 502-8261 for more info. Alberta Arts Pavilion, 2315 NE Alberta St., 8 pm Fridays-Saturdays, 2 pm Sundays. Ends May 25. $14 adults, $12 students and seniors ($1 off with a can of food).

Storyteller and mythologist Michael Meade presents "A Poetics of Peace" along with other special guests. For more info, contact Mosaic at 1-800- 233-6984. First Congregational Church, 1126 SW Park Ave., 7 pm.

SATURDAY MAY 10

Today's the day to learn about the peace-supporting, endangered culture of Tibet during the 2nd Annual Tibetan Cultural Festival. The Samtenling Monks demonstrate sand mandala construction. The festival also features a Tibetan bazaar with prime indigenous fare, Tibetan yaks and traditional musical entertainment. Contact 222-7172 for info. Oaks Amusement Park, foot of Southeast Spokane Street, noon-5 pm.

No matter how the current conflict concludes, the journey for peace does not cease. Bring slogans and signs for this weekly demonstration outside the Bagdad Theater and Pub, 3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd., 7 pm.

WWeek 2015