Vegas and more: Off the Strip for free thinkers and adventurers » Speakers/Lectures

Free UNLV Forum Lecture Series

Sandra — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:20:18 +0000

The UNLV Forum Lecture Series runs each academic year. This article is from 2007 and covers the fall semester only.

FOR MOST RECENT ARTICLE, see UNLV Forum Lecture Series Open & Free to Public

Certain articles are not accessible due to deletion of entire site by BlueHost. If you are interested in more detail about the deletion, check out the link at end of article.

For all of you out there in Vegas Valley who feel you live in an intellectual, as well as geographical desert, relief is on the horizon. And this oasis is not a mirage.

After a long hot summer with little to stimulate the mind except the the Las Vegas World Affairs Club, some excellent films at CineVegas, various poetry readings, the Socrates Discussion Group and well actually, quite a few other places if you read my articles – UNLV has announced its fall 2007 schedule for the University Forum Free Lecture Series open to the public.

You can check out details at liberalarts.unlv.edu or call 702- 895-3401. Please note that the lecture series is only for fall and spring semester. Fall semester is not posted until late summer, so the site may say “I’m sorry, there are no upcoming events.” We hope that this series will survive the deep budget cuts in the Nevada university system.

The University Forum is a lecture series sponsored and funded by UNLV’s College of Liberal Arts for the edification of the Las Vegas community. All events are free and open to the public, no reservation is necessary – just show up and enjoy. Lectures start at 7:30 pm sharp. Venue is the Barrick Museum Auditorium, UNLV campus, Las Vegas NV.

Did you experience these?:

Sep 12 – The Climate History of the Earth: A View to the Future Prof. Matthew Lachniet, Department of Geoscience, UNLV

Sep 17 – The U. S. Constitution and the Lessons of Experience: Does What Made Sense in 1787 Serve Us Well in 2007? Prof. Sanford Levinson, W. St. John Garwood and W. St. John Garwood, Jr. Centennial Chair in Law and Professor Government, University of Texas

Sep 20 – What’s Wrong With the Way Nevada Selects Its Judges? A Legal and Policy Analysis Prof. Tuan Samahon, William S. Boyd School of Law, UNLV

Sep 21 – The Social Critique of Social Knowledge (or, But Mom, Crop-Tops are Cute!) Prof. Sally Haslanger, Department of Linguistics and Philosophy, and Acting Director of Women’s Studies, MIT

Sep 24 – Dancing under Desert Stars: Ballroom in Las Vegas Amanda Haboush, Nevada Institute for Children’s Research and Policy, UNLV; Gail Michel-Parsons, Director of Rebel Dancesport Team, UNLV

Oct 04 – The Mystery of Labyrinths Gael Hancock, William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration, UNLV Tue

Oct 09 – Endangered Wildlife of the American Southwest (slide illustrated) Mitch Tobin, Scholar, Newspaper Reporter and Author

Oct 11 – The Road to the Viral Superhighway: Emerging Diseases in the Time of Globalization Prof. George J. Armelagos, Goodrich C. White Professor of Anthropology

Oct 24 – Screening the Mafia (Why is “Italian American” Synonymous with Organized Crime?) Prof. Ben Lawton, Department of Foreign Languages, and Chair, Interdisciplinary Italian Studies Program and Chair, Interdisciplinary Film Studies Program, Purdue University

Nov 01 – The Sex Life of Orchids Carol Siegel, President, Greater Las Vegas Orchid Society

Nov 08 – Time-Loops, Superstrings, and Other Weird Stuff: Are Physicists for Real (or Is This Just a Lot of Mathematics)? Prof. Jody Azzouni, Department of Philosophy, Tufts University

Nov 14 – Spilling Over: The Migration between Attitudes Regarding Immigration and Policy Preferences Prof. Max Neiman, Program Director and Senior Fellow, Governance and Public Finance Program, Public Policy Institute of California

Nov 16 – The Culture of War and Peace in Europe, 1789 – 1815 Prof. David A. Bell, Mellon Professor in the Humanities and Dean of Faculty, Krieger School of Arts & Sciences, Johns Hopkins University

Nov 29 – The Grand Canyon: 125 Years of Photography of an American Icon (slide-illustrated) Stephen Trimble, Ansel Adams Award-Winning Photographer and Writer

If you want to know more about opportunities for free lectures at UNLV, jump to :

3 Different UNLV Lecture Series Free to Public

Related note: many of these articles were not able to be reconstructed after my site was deleted by BlueHost: Drilling for Oil in ANWAR, UNLV Free Lectures for Public, Las Vegas World Affairs Council, Orchid Lovers Meet, Socrates Cafe Discussion Group, Poetry Nights @ reJAVAnate, Poet’s Corner, From Apartheid to Darfur: Africa’s Struggle

BlueHost deletion of Sandra Off the Strip:

SandraOfftheStrip deleted from BlueHost database, Did Pornography or Politics bring down my site?

Poet’s Corner

Sandra — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 09:02:46 +0000

The 3rd Friday of the month @ 7pm is a Poets Corner hosted by Keith Brantley and Pendelita Toney and the City of Las Vegas. Everyone is invited to read their own work or just listen and appreciate others. Call 702-229-4800 for more info. West Las Vegas Arts Center 947 W Lake Mead Blvd Las Vegas NV

Open Mic Poetry Readings

Sandra — Sat, 01 Sep 2007 14:42:57 +0000

Once a month at the North Las Vegas Library is “Poetry Open Mic” which welcomes readings of poetry of all forms. Second Thursday from 6:30p-8:30p. Sign up at the door. Must be 16 or older. You may read two poems/songs/pieces of writing or 5 minutes of Mic time. Please note if you are reading the work of others. Refreshments served. Call 702-633-1070 for more info. North Las Vegas Library 2300 Civic Center Dr North Las Vegas NV

3 Different UNLV Lecture Series Free to Public

Sandra — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 23:06:02 +0000

UNLV offers three lecture or discussion series free to the general public.

The University Forum Lecture Series features speakers on a variety of subjects which run the gamut from "Climate History of the Earth", "The Mystery of Labryrinths," "Screening the Mafia" to "Time-Loops, Superstrings, and Other Weird Stuff."

You will find something for every taste and every interest. The Forum Lecture Series is offered two to four times a month, at 7:30 pm, at the Barrick Museum Auditorium. You can check the UNLV website for full details: liberalarts.unlv.edu. (Pls note that the site may state "I’m sorry, there are no upcoming events." The fall semester schedule is not posted until late summer. The program is not expected to be cut in spite of the deep budget cuts for 2009-2010.)

The Barrick Lecture Series, funded through a grant by Marjorie Barrick, presents nationally and internationally known speakers and are often presented in round table discussion format. Two or three events are scheduled annually, usually commencing at 7:30 pm. The Barrick Lecture Series is held at the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall at UNLV.

The Black Mountain Institute is a think tank for writers and artists founded under the vision of Carol Harter, former UNLV President. The BMI is composed of the Forum on Contemporary Cultures (BMI), the Cities of Asylum and the International Institute of Modern Letters. Its mission is to bring together thinkers from all cultural and political perspectives.

All three of the UNLV Lecture Series are open and free to the public. The University Forum Lecture Series and the Black Mountain Institute require no reservations, while the Barrick Lecture Series requires advance acquisition of free tickets with limitation of two per person.

Contact information for the Forum Lecture Series: 702-895-3401 or liberalarts.unlv.edu.

Contact information for BMI: 702-895-5542 or blackmountaininstitute.org.

Contact information for the Barrick Lecture events: Performing Arts Center Box Office 702-895-ARTS (2787) or pac.unlv.edu.

Free Forum Lectures are at Barrick Auditorium while the Barrick Lectures are at Ham Concert Hall. The venue of the Black Mountain Institute is announced with each event.

Thank you to UNLV for photo.

Related note: some of these articles were not able to be reconstructed after my site was deleted by BlueHost: UNLV Free Lecture Series, Black Mountain Institute on Vietnam & Iraq, Taxes and Politics, Home From Iraq, Author Richard Wiley Reads, From Apartheid to Darfur: Africa’s Struggle

BlueHost deletion of Sandra Off the Strip:

SandraOfftheStrip deleted from BlueHost database, Did Pornography or Politics bring down my site?

Kendo Pageant

Sandra — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 16:36:30 +0000

Sat Aug 25 is a presentation by the Japanese American Cultural Society of “Kendo,” or “the way of the sword.” Kendo is the art of Japanese Samurai swordsmanship and one of the traditional Japanese martial arts. Physically and mentally challenging, it is rooted in the traditions of Budo, the Martial Way.

You will hear a short lecture about Kendo, which can be taught to every age level, and view demonstrations by students and masters young and old. Time is 2pm. Cost is $8 general/$5 seniors and students. Winchester Cultural Center 3130 S. McLeod Las Vegas NV

Sen Reid Town Hall Meeting on Coal Plants

Sandra — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 16:15:13 +0000

Senator Harry Reid will be hosting a town hall discussion on “Nevada’s Role in Achieving Energy Independence.” This is a great opportunity to hear and be heard concerning the complex issues surrounding energy independence and the environment. The event has been rescheduled for Mon Aug27 @ 10:30am. Venue is the Springs Preserve 333 S. Valley View Las Vegas NV (at Meadows Dr)
You are asked to RSVP to Senator Reid’s office by calling 702-388-5020.

Nepal in photos

Sandra — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:28:40 +0000

William Cooper and JoAnn Lippert have been photographing for five years in SE Asia. On Jun 3 from 6:30p-8:30p they will demonstrate through slides and discussion how Buddhists and Hindu cultures live side by side in Nepal. Admission is free. More info at lvucc.org. Venue is Northwest Community Church 7310 Smoke Ranch Rd Ste K Las Vegas NV.

LA Times Pagel speaks on Gaikotsu art

Sandra — Mon, 28 May 2007 19:33:51 +0000

The Las Vegas Art Museum is hosting an exhibit by Sush Machia Gaikotsu thru Jul 8 and have invited Los Angeles Times art critic David Pagel to comment on Gaikotsu’s work, which is described as playful pop paintings. May 30 at 6pm. Tickets for the talk are $10 non-members/$7 members & students. Seating is limited; reservations are recommended. Call 702-360-8000. The Las Vegas Art Museum 9600 W. Sahara Ave Las Vegas NV

Related Prato Haggadah at LV Art Museum

Memorial Day Services

Sandra — Fri, 25 May 2007 01:19:17 +0000

For those of you looking for a traditional and meaningful way to spend Memorial Day, there are three services being held Monday May 28 in the morning.

Bunkers Mortuaries and Cemeteries is holding Memorial Day Service at two locations:
Memory Gardens Memorial Park 7251 Lone Vegas Blvd North with VFW Post 10047 at 8:00 am.
Woodlawn Cemetary 1500 Las Vegas Blvd North with VFW Post 1753 at 9:30 am.

Guest Speakers include Sen John Ensign, Sen Harry Reid, Congressman John Porter, Congresswoman Shelly Berkley, Councilman Larry Brown, Mayor Oscar Goodman with MC Nate Tannebaum.

There will also be a service held by Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries at 1325 No Main St featuring filmmaker Larry Cappetto. Call 702-474-8300 for more info.

Intentional Wellness Conference I

Sandra — Wed, 23 May 2007 23:45:07 +0000

My goal is to bring something of interest to everyone. I strive to make connections between people who might not otherwise find each other, and to bring events to a broader audience so that a diverse culture of all aspects of life can flourish here in a city too often characterized by the dark side. The light side, and I mean that in a spiritual sense, is nurtured by organizations like the Open Wisdom Institute which is participating in the Intentional Wellness Conference on June 2.

This all day 9 am -4 pm, “Extraordinary Day” event will be held at the Canyon Gate Country Club in Summerlin with the objective to empower you and connect you to your own healer within. It is being presented by Sheila Z Stirling, a spiritual life coach, healer and author of “Reading the Language of the Cosmos.” New Age, most definitely. For everyone, most definitely not. For the seeker and the spiritual pilgrim, definitely something to investigate. www.intentional-wellness.com

Canyon Gate Country Club W. Sahara & Decatur Las Vegas NV.

Desert Chorale Memorial Day Show

Sandra — Tue, 22 May 2007 16:28:25 +0000

May 25 at 7:30pm is the place to be for a spectacular patriotic show in honor of Memorial Day and especially those who have sacrificed in the Iraq War. Chaplain Ray Guinta, author of “God at Ground Zero,” will speak, the Desert Chorale, Stardust Barbershop Quartet and the Nevada Symphonic Wind Ensemble will entertain. The participation of the Nellis Air Base Honor Guard and local ROTC units should make this the perfect place to join others in showing respect for all those who serve our country. This event is Free. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Ham Concert Hall UNLV campus Las Vegas NV.

Related Memorial Day Services

Tibetan Buddhist Master Rinpoche

Sandra — Sat, 19 May 2007 15:35:03 +0000

Tulku Orgyen Zangpo Rinpoche is believed to be the reincarnated spiritual master of the Tibetan Nyingma Buddhist tradition. He spent most of his life in the presence of the Buddhist master, Jigmed Puntsok and teaches the Buddhist way of awakening through his organization known as the Compassion Fellowship. He will be in Las Vegas Fri May 18-Sun May 20.

You have one more opportunity to meet with him and share the experience of his teachings:

Fri May 18 7p-9p. The Tibetan Art of Lucid Dreaming. “The sleep state is an occasion to travel to the paradise of awakening, contact subline beings, and unfold the true heart of compassion.” Lohan School of Shaolin 3850 Schiff Dr Las Vegas NV.

Sat May 19 4p-6p. Living in the Heart: The Way of Awakening. “Techniques that we can use everyday and every moment to touch our loving and compassionate heart.” Sahara West Library 9600 W. Sahara Ave Las Vegas NV.

Sun May 20 2p-4p. Communion with Mystical Consciousness. “If one can contact that truth (of the heart), one communies with our eternally blissful nature.” Lohan School of Shaolin 3850 Schiff Dr. Las Vegas NV.

Donation of $10, but no one turned away for lack of funds. For more info call Betzi 702-219-1191. www.compassionfellowship.org.

“What’s Up with Planet Earth”

Sandra — Fri, 18 May 2007 16:54:50 +0000

Sheila Z will be presenting an informational update on the status of planet Earth for the Ner Talmid Rosh Hodish group May 24 @ 2pm. Sheila was one of 1000 people chosen to be trained personally in Nashville by Vice President Al Gore as part of his creation “The Climate Project.” Sheila Z. Stirling, author and head of the Open Wisdom Institute, is organizing Climate Project presentations throughout this year. Venue for this presentation is Congregation Ner Tamid 55 N Valle Verde Dr Henderson NV.

Local Author Builds Better Communities

Sandra — Wed, 16 May 2007 06:32:48 +0000

Aimmee Riley is the author of a wonderful autobiography “Tears of Hope” about the spirit of life under the most adverse of circumstances. Lebanese by birth, Riley has adopted Las Vegas as her home and works passionately for the the building of better communities in our world. Please join her and guests at “Perservance Leads to Power“, a free speaking event where all are appreciated and valued. Light refreshments served. Call 702-545-0707. Come to this inspirational speaking event Thurs May 17 6:15p-8:15p. “Tears of Hope” is a message of hope and perserverance. Sahara West Library 9600 W Sahara Las Vegas NV (@ Ft Apache).

Humanist Group meets

Sandra — Wed, 16 May 2007 02:58:28 +0000

HALVASON, the Humanist Association of Las Vegas and Southern Nevada meets the 1st & 3rd Sundays from 2p-4:30p to discuss and promote humanism as a “viable alternative to supernatural and theistic belief systems. Meetings on the 1st Sunday have no agenda and are for open discussion. The 3rd Sunday is more formal with guest speakers. Light refreshments are served. Call 702-642-5222 or visit the website halvason.org. Meetings are held at the Las Vegas Library 702-507-3500 833 Las Vegas Blvd No. Las Vegas NV.

The American Humanist Association promtes the Jeffersonian principle of separation of church and state, the rights of the non-religious, free inquiry, a naturalistic perspective and a reason-based, secular ethical system.

So Nevada Rock Art Association Meets

Sandra — Tue, 15 May 2007 15:31:50 +0000

The third Thursday of the month @ 7pm is the regular meeting time of the Southern Nevada Rock Art Association. Admission is free and open to anyone interested in Native American rock art. Guest speakers present various topics. For info call 702-897-7878. Las Vegas Library 833 Las Vegas Blvd No Las Vegas NV.

The Poet’s Corner

Sandra — Tue, 15 May 2007 07:08:17 +0000

The Performing Arts Division of the City of Las Vegas is sponsoring the Poet’s Corner on two Fridays, May 18 and June 15 @ 7:30 pm. Keith Brantley will host the forum for established poets but will have an open mike for any motivated members of the audience. The event is free. Call 702-229-4800 for more info. West Las Vegas Arts Center 947 West Lake Mead Boulevard, Las Vegas NV. www.artslasvegas.org

Noah Levine author of Dharma Punx reads/meditates

Sandra — Mon, 14 May 2007 16:16:27 +0000

A unique figure in the yoga world, Noah Levine, author of “Dharma Punx,” will read from his new book, “Against the Stream” on Fri May 18 @ 8pm at It’s Yoga Las Vegas. His new book focuses on the potential for radical social change through spiritual practice. “Wake up: the revolution has already begun!” He’ll speak on his take of the life and teachings of Buddha followed by a book signing. Lecture and book signing are free.

On Sat May 19 1:30pm-4pm Levine will lead meditation. Considered a Spiritual Revolutionary, he is based in Los Angeles where he effects social change by teaching, writing and counseling, including work with juvenile halls and prisons. He has studied both Theravada and Mahayanan Buddhist traditions. Fee $30.

Call 702-798-YOGA (9642), email info@itsyogalasvegas.net or check out excellent website itsyogalasvegas.net. It’s Yoga Las Vegas 4634 So. Maryland Pkwy #101 Las Vegas NV.

Public Speaking Workshop

Sandra — Sat, 12 May 2007 16:00:04 +0000

Today is the Las Vegas chapter of the National Speakers Association workshop on Sat May 19 from 9a-4p. This is a dynamic group of people – intelligent, involved and interesting. These are all qualities that I often hear people are searching for in other Las Vegans. Let me stress you do not have to be a member to attend the workshops, but your fees are less if you are. You are also NOT required to get up and speak in front of the group. You can spend the day listening and learning if that is your choice. It’s an excellent opportunity to network with a different set of locals than you would usually meet.

May’s guest is Dick Bruso whose expertise is creative branding, utilizing the power of media and developing strategic networking. This promises to be a highly practical program to help speakers focus on what makes them unique and position themselves to be “heard above the noise” in the marketplace.

The afternoon session is hands-on with the opportunity for five attendees to work one-on-one with Bruso to “brandstorm” before the group. Learn the “umbrella approach” to branding that covers all your services – speaking, consulting, product development.

Lunch is included: Non-Members early bird (purchase by May 12) $107/ Purchase May 13-May 18 $117/Purchase at the door $127. Non-members welcome. Register online www.vegasblock.com. Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino 3535 Las Vegas Blvd So. Las Vegas NV

LVWAC International Educator of the Year Awards

Sandra — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 23:45:18 +0000

The Las Vegas World Affairs Council will hold its annual International Educator of the Year Award Dinner May 4 when outstanding teachers from the Clark Country School District, CCSN, UNLV and Nevada State College are honored for their “contributions to international education in the performance of their normal duties.” The selectd group will travel to India for an educational experience in political, economic and health care systems, a trip designed to reward them for their excellence and give them additional tools for success in raising international awareness in the classroom.

There are several categories of awards including the International Educator of the Year, Outstanding International Educationers at UNLV, Nevada State, CCSN, High School, Public and Private, Middle School and a Founder’s Award.

The two featured speakers are Bret Whipple, Chairman of the Nevada Board of Regents, and Somy Ali, South Asian actress, activist and documentary film maker.

Please contact LVWAC for registration and more info www.lv wac.org. The venue is Harrah’s Las Vegas 3475 Las Vegas Blvd So Las Vegas NV

“Viva Las Vegas” Screening

Sandra — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 22:18:28 +0000

It’s been 30 years since Elvis Presley left this life for the unknown, but his legend never dies. He lives on embodied in impersonators, memorabilia and in the hearts of countless fans. Apr 25 @ 5:00 pm, The Clark County Library will screen “Viva Las Vegas,” followed by local author Heart Shapre who will discuss her new book “Elvis Through My Eyes: Why Elvis Left the Building.” There will be a chance for audience discussion of all things Elvis – music, movies and fanfare. Books will be available for sale and signing. Call 702-507-3458. Clark County Library 1401 E. Flamingo Las Vegas NV.

Author Amy Tan at Library

Sandra — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 01:30:06 +0000

Amy Tan is a wonderful writer, her works rich in vocabulary and imagery, her characters finely drawn and complex, her stories intricate and unpredictable. The chosen book for the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District’s 6th annual “Reading Las Vegas” is Tan’s “Joy Luck Club,” a novel brought to the big screen by Director Ang Lee. The author will herself speak and read at two events in Las Vegas this weekend. Her books will be available for purchase and signing.
Apr 21 7:00 pm Clark Country Library 702-507-3400 1401 E. Flamingo Rd.
Apr 22 2:00 pm Summerlin Library 702-507-3860 1771 Inner Circle Dr.

Related John O’Hurley Talks Dogs

John O’Hurley Talks Dogs

Sandra — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 17:48:48 +0000

John O’Hurley, known as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, and currently appearing in Spamalot at the Wynn Las Vegas, is appearing at the Clark County Library Thur Apr 19 7pm. “An Evening with John O’Hurley” focuses on his lifelong love of dogs and his book “It’s Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump.” The event includes a book sale and signing. 702-507-3400 1401 E. Flamingo Rd Las Vegas NV

Compulsive Gamblers Lecture

Sandra — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 19:36:11 +0000

The Swiss decided to deal with their gambling issues in a socially responsible way. When they legalized major casinos, they made it part of the licensing requirements to propose programs for troubled gamblers, even outlining how they would ban certain players exhibiting obsessive behavior. Prof William N. Thompson of UNLV will speak at Barrick Museum Auditorium on Mon Apr 16 7:30p on “Compulsive Gamblers: How the Swiss Handle this Problem.” Prof. Thompson has some ideas on how the Swiss model could be adapted for Las Vegas.

This is another in the Free Lecture Series of the University Forum, offered to the public by UNLV. Call 702-895-3401 for more info. Barrick Museum Auditorium, UNLV campus, Las Vegas NV.

Nobel Laureate Poetry Reading

Sandra — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 17:51:52 +0000

The Black Mountain Institute presents two Nobel Laureates on Thurs Apr 19 @ 7:00 pm. Derek Walcott, West Indian poet and playwright and winner of the 1992 Nobel Prize for Literature, will be at UNLV campus for a reading of his work. He will be joined by Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate, for a discussion afterwards. As usual, these BMI lectures are free and open to the public. No reservations are required. This lecture will be held at the UNLV Student Union, Room 208 Las Vegas NV. www.blackmountaininstitute.org

Intelligent Design?

Sandra — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 12:55:32 +0000

Prof of Paleontology and Curator of the Museum of Paleontology, University of California at Berkeley, Kevin Padian will explore the four primary reasons the courts have rejected Inteligent Design. The title of his lecture is “Intelligent Education or Intelligent Design? The Challenge of Effective Science Education.” His particular concern in the challenge that Creation Science and Intelligent Design movements present to effective biology education.

This is another in the Free Lecture Series of the University Forum, offered to the public by UNLV. This lecture on Apr 18 @ 7:30 pm is co-sponsored by the UNLV Departments of Environmental Studies and Geoscience. Call 702-895-3401 for more info. Barrick Museum Auditorium, UNLV campus, Las Vegas NV.

Simple Solutions to Complex Biomedical Problems

Sandra — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 14:09:25 +0000

The 2007 Nevada Medal for outstanding scientific achievement was awarded to Dr. Susan Linquist of MIT for her work on protein and genetics. She will speak on “Simple Solutions to Complex Biomedical Problems” Apr 12 at 4:00 pm. “Proteins do just about everything for us, from powering our muscles to forming the complex units in our brains.” Come hear her speak on the consequences of proteins gone wrong, leading to Alzheimer’s and mad cow disease. Free and open to public. Rogers Auditorium Desert Research Institute 755 E. Flamingo Rd Las Vegas NV

China in the New Century

Sandra — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 13:40:14 +0000

Join an interdisciplinary panel of experts who will discuss the role and future of China in this century. Dr. Sue Fawn Chung, UNLV, will moderate a panel representing economics, sociology, history and literature. The discussion is Thur Apr 12 @ 7pm. The event is free and open to the public. Clark County Library 702-507-3400 1401 E. Flamingo Las Vegas NV

Drilling for Oil in ANWR lecture

Sandra — Sat, 07 Apr 2007 17:00:27 +0000

Next in the series of free University Forum Lectures is “Resource Politics: An Unbiased View of Oil in the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge” on Thurs Apr 12 7:30 pm. The guest lecturer is Scott L. Montgomery, petroleum geologist and lecturer at the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, University of Washington. The discussion will be of resource, economic and environmental issues related to oil development in the ANWR. Use of images and maps will complement this practical and philosophical talk about the ideas and misconceptions on both sides of this controversial issue. Call 702-895-3401. Barrick Museum Auditorium, UNLV campus Las Vegas NV.

Catharsis Grand Opening

Sandra — Tue, 27 Mar 2007 13:25:14 +0000

There will be an all day grand opening of Catharsis, the Centre for Cleansing & Renewal on Mar 31. Guest Speaker Sheila Z Stirling will present “What’s Up with Planet Earth?” from noon – 4:oo pm. The Centre will feature introductory specials, raffles, some complementary services among other opening day activities. 702-478-5690 1770 N. Buffalo Dr. Las Vegas NV (In the Sea Bressze Shopping Plaza)

Global Warming Lecture

Sandra — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 21:48:31 +0000

Concerned about the future of our planet and the dire predictions being voiced by members of the science community and a growing number of politicians? Mark you calendar for “Global Warming: Solutions for America,” a lecture in the University Forum Lecture Series at UNLV. Prof. Eban Goodstein of Lewis and Clark College will discuss the scientific basis for the urgent calls for action, an economic strategy to meet the challenge, and his national climate education initiative. This event is co-sponsored by the UNLV Depts of Environmental Studies and Architecture. The public is welcome, no reservation necessary, entrance Free. The lecture will taked place at Barrick Museum Auditorium Thurs Apr 5 @ 7:30 pm. UNLV campus. Las Vegas NV
Related UNLV Free Lectures for Public, Energy Conservation Ideas, Saving Our Planet, The Electric Car is not Dead, Solar Energy meeting

Future of Space Program Dinner

Sandra — Sun, 25 Mar 2007 21:24:07 +0000

The Las Vegas World Affairs Council presents a Space and Military Dinner with Lt. General Klotz, Vice commander, Air Force Space Command. Lt. Gen Klotz will discuss the future of the space program and the role of the military in space exploration. The topic is especially timely as a National Academy of Sciences study has joined other scientific voices criticizing NASA of sacrificing basic science to finance the International Space Station and to put man back on the moon by the 2020. The dinner will be at the Four Seasons on Mar 29 @ 7:00pm. Members $45 and non-Members $60. Non-Members are welcome and do not need to attend as a member’s guest. If you would like to attend, contact membership@lvwac.org. Four Seasons Hotel 3960 Las Vegas Blvd So Las Vegas NV

Tibetan Medicine & Astrology Readings in Las Vegas

Sandra — Sun, 25 Mar 2007 04:10:39 +0000

I attended an intriguing talk today at the West Sahara Library featuring Dr. Jhampa Kalsang, a doctor of Tibetan Astro (astrology) Medicine. Dr. Kalsang studied and then instructed at the Dalai Lama’s School of Tibetan Medicine in Dharamsala, India. He moved to Europe in the early 90’s and taught workshops in several countries including Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Holland. In the late 90’s he was asked to speak at an International Tibetan Astro Medicine Conference in Washington DC sponsored by Harvard Medical School. That speaking engagement led to a year contract speaking at Princeton, Yale, Columbia and Harvard. He now lives in San Diego where he conducts seminars with Tibetan scholars that are non-sectarian and include all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. This is the second time he has been in Las Vegas and intends to visit once a year, perhaps establishing a school if there is enough interest.

The practice of Tibetan Astro Medicine is more than 3,000 years old. As there was no written language until the 7th century, the knowledge and practice was passed verbally from mother practitioners to daughters and fathers to sons. He recounted the tale of a popular and powerful king who ruled over a vast kingdom extending from Manali, India deep into modern day China. A portion of his vast wealth came from taxes imposed upon travelers of the Silk Road as they passed through ancient Tibet. The king was desirous of a written alphabet, so sent his sons and a minister to India to learn Sanskrit. All died from the extreme heat of India save the minister, who returned to develop the script that is in use today with Tibetan.

The tenants of the Tibetan practice of medicine are based on several factors, including the astrology of the patient, which is determined by the time of birth. It is vital to understand the cycles of life; timing is everything. Also important is the consideration of climate and diet. Diet must be adjusted according to the season. In fact, Dr. Kalsang proposes that the change of seasons is beneficial to good health and well-being. He cautioned especially against very cold drinks in a hot climate, disturbing the digestion. In fact, he attributed a possible cause of our epidemic of obesity to the intake of such volumes of cold drink with our meals. Diet is the number one consideration in Tibetan medicine. The food you eat is “energy you are injecting into your body.” It does you no good to take supplements or medicines without proper nutrition. Only good food can make you healthy. He quoted Aristotle as saying, “The best medicine is food.”

Tibetans utilize herbs for treatment of disease, even kidney stones can be broken up and passed in the urine by the intake of the correct herbs. Dr. Kalsang was quick to instruct that herbs are never given alone, but always blended, helping to avoid the toxicity that can occur even with natural products. Tibetan medicine and spirituality are closely connected. Medical treatments are always energized by mantras.

Diagnosis is by examining external parts of the body to reflect internal weakness. For example, the tongue is connected to the heart; certain conditions of the tongue can indicate heart problems. The Tibetan doctor will look at the coloring in the whites of the eyes; he will test the urine. Most importantly, he takes the pulse, but with a woman, it is first the left, then right, and for the man, the opposite.

According to Dr. Kalsang, the main cause for cancer is stress, with the ingestion of chemicals in our environment as second. He recommends yoga and meditation, and taking time out of the day to relax. He dismisses the excuse that one can be too busy to cook or to meditate. There are 24 hours in every day, he says. Do not tell me you cannot find one hour. Our society is so stressed that people cannot sleep on the most expensive of mattresses, while the poor snore loudly and sleep soundly on rags in the railroad station in Delhi.

The Tibetans see astrology as providing a blueprint for life. You would not construct a building without a blueprint, so why would you plan your life without one? It is very important for them to ascertain the time of death so they can tailor their life to use the time wisely. Dr. Kalsang advises that although money is not bad and we all need to pay our bills, one should not “over-attach” to it. He does enjoy sending extra dollars to India to help his relatives and, most important to him, to maintain his Tibetan store in San Diego which provides Tibetan goods and medicines to Tibetan refugees. Having more than you need translates to the ability to help others.

Dr. Kalsang is associated with the Buddhist community in Las Vegas. For more information about his next visit or Buddhist activities, call 702-219-1191. Also visit the website of the Lohan School of Shaolin. www.lvlohans.com

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Dr. Kalsang will be available Sun Mar 25 for Personal Astrological Readings. This will help you with that blueprint of life I talked about earlier in the article. Jhampa, as he is known to his associates, will give counsel and recommendations for appropriate courses of action and antidotes to alleviate obstacles. Necessary data: Full Name, Date of Birth, Time of Birth, Place of Birth. The cost for a personal consultation, including tape is $130. Please call Sveta 619-819-9276 or email svetala@gmail.com. This is an amazing opportunity to have a personal reading from one of the world’s leaders in Tibetan Medicine and Astrology.

Creating Abundance and Powerful Visions

Sandra — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 22:48:23 +0000

We all know about Personal Development. It??????? the new rage, the latest in how to be rich, happy, healthy, fulfilled. There are so many versions out there that one cannot avoid being impressed by the ingenuity and creativity required to package the message in a unique way. I attended a presentation last night by Clara Mayer, PhD candidate who had developed her take on the power of positive thinking. Of course, positive thinking is old school terminology. Today we talk about visualization and affirmations, but it all has the common denominator of creating a world through the power of your own positive vision.

Clara is in the process of obtaining certification as a Corporate Trainer as well as writing her thesis. Her workshop entitled ??????Creating Abundance through a Powerful Vision?????? enlisted group participation and required a willingness to share private thoughts and experiences. Clara has classified mental and emotional states as ones of either “scarcity?????? or ??????abundance.?????? Operating from the framework of ??????scarcity,?????? you are in what Mayer defines as ??????psychological assessment,?????? a condition when circumstances control your action. The opposite occurs from the position of ??????abundance?????? when commitment and declaration dictate action. It is only when we operate from an ??????abundance?????? state of mind that we are able to create our own vision and direct our own lives.

Vision is about direction, about having a goal. Vision requires the clarity to define exactly what you want in life. Next you must want it more than anything else; you must be driven by passion. Then you must visualize; you are already the person in your vision, your vision is already yours. Lastly, your values must be in alignment with the vision itself. One of her most powerful challenges was to answer ??????What is your perfect day??????? If you can answer that honestly, then you can know what it is you truly desire in life. Having the courage to follow through is your next challenge.

Vietnam vs Iraq

Sandra — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 18:47:20 +0000

If you have ever had to write one of those essays about compare and contrast, you will get the gist of the Black Mountain Institute Panel Discussion on The Vietnam War in Light of Iraq. The panel of six scholars and authors contributed their personal insights into the two conflicts; similarities easier to expound than differences. Both qualify as huge political, military and moral blunders; are we splitting hairs to decide which is the more tragic? The distance of time has apparently softened the Vietnam misstep as all silently agreed with Panelist and Novelist O’Brien that the US Iraq invasion and fruitless occupation is a “disaster on a scale that we may never come back from.” Not too cheery a thought and certainly not a vote of confidence in the future.

Similarities: We entered both conflicts ignorant of their cultures and without understanding of their own internal historical struggles. As Irsfield so aptly put it, “We got in the way of their history.” We certainly formed our political opinions based on misrepresented facts and propaganda, even outright lies. We justified our action on a fear of the domino effect: all Asia would go Communist, all the Middle East will fall under the power of extremist Islam. In both cases the enemy is not clearly identifiable, wrecking havoc in our operations where we employ locals as support. The enemy is everywhere, and as Herring queried, “Whom do we kill?” Lacking a defined target, the young soldier wants to kill everyone.

Differences: In Vietnam we entered into an existing war, one that had waged for decades and was a struggle by a people to be free of foreign domination, Chinese and Japanese as well as French. In Iraq we created the war, unleashing a struggle between three separate and competitive groups that had been controlled by the Saddam regime. Because of 911 and the anthrax scare, we believed we were in imminent danger as a nation. Vietnam was always very far away. There is a strong religious overtone to the Iraq conflict not existing in Vietnam. Although American Catholics sympathized with the ruling catholic regime in South Vietnam, it played a small part in public opinion. But the confusing complexities of the Sunni-Shiite struggle and our Christian world view of an aggressive Muslim movement threatening our existence are major triggers in our national psychology. This same element of fear was played out in Vietnam, not through religious channels, but from a fear of world-domination of Communism.

The Doc Rondo Hall was filled to capacity, 250 concerned citizens divided into two groups: UNLV students out of interest or class requirement and aging baby boomers who personally experienced that era in all its pain and turmoil. This has happened twice in our generation. Herring poses the question, “What does it tell us about ourselves?”

The discussion was highly academic, as to be expected, certainly dry and not a little lacking in animation. The sound system was not calibrated properly, which is really inexcusable considering the resources of the recital hall. It was very difficult to hear the panelists at various times, at other times comments were quite indiscernible. There really needs to be more attention paid to the technical part of such an evening as the impact is significantly lessened when the public has to strain to follow.

Panelists:
Tim O’Brien: author of the definitive novel on Vietnam, written from his own personal experience, “The Things They Carried.”
George C. Herring: Historian and author of “America’s Longest War: The United States and Vietnam, 1950-1975,” the most widely used account in college classes across the country.
John Irsfield: novelist and short story writer, UNLV professor of English:
Vu Tran: Vietnamese-born, author and winner of the O’Henry Award for short stories. Although raised in the US, Tran’s stories are all set in Vietnam.
Jimmy Castellanos: A Veteran of Peace, he was deployed to Iraq as a Marine and is now a conscientious objector.
Joseph “Andy” Foy: UNLV author of four books on Vietnam and currently writing “The American South and the Vietnam War.”

Author Ralph McInerny on Natural Law

Sandra — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 02:20:15 +0000

The UNLV Great Works Academic Certificate program is hosting a talk by Notre Dame Professor and author of the Father Dowling mystery novels on Mon Mar 19 @ 7:30 pm. Prof. McInerny, whose academic field is Medieval Studies, will focus on the philosopher Thomas Aquinas and the theory that there are inescapable moral judgements that no one can fail to recognize. These judgments make it possible to resolve moral disagreements, such as those concerning stem cell research. For more info contact Prof David Fott 702-895-4187. Hendrix Auditorium, Carlson Education Bldg. UNLV campus. Park in the garage on the north end of campus and follow the signs.

Tickets for So African de Klerk

Sandra — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 01:41:44 +0000

The Barrick Lecture Series will be featuring former South African President and promoter of peace and democracy, Frederik Willem de Klerk at the next event of this season. De Klerk will speak on “Bridging the Gap: Globalization without Isolation” on April 17 @ 7:30 pm. De Klerk was president of South Africa from 1982 until the inauguration of President Nelson Mandela in May 1994. As head of state, de Klerk initiated and presided over the negotiations leading to the end of South Africa’s infamous “apartheid” and the adoption of the country’s inclusive and truly democratic constitution in December 1993. Pres. de Klerk published his autobiography, “The Last Trek-A New Beginning” in 1999 and has established two foundations dedicated to peace. The first was the F.W. de Klerk Foundation for the promotion of peace in multi-communal societies and the more recent Global Leadship Foundation to promote peace, democracy and development.

The Barrick Lectures Series is held 2-3 times annually and is funded under a grant from Marjorie Barrick. Tickets are free but by reservation only. UNLV students, faculty and staff can obtain tickets from Wed, Mar 21, with availability to general public from Sat Mar 24. Contact the Performing Arts Center Box Office at 702-895-2787. Venue is the Artemus Ham Concert Hall, UNLV Las Vegas NV. pac.unlv.edu

Democrat Presidential Candidates on Health Care

Sandra — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 21:15:26 +0000

I received a comment from the SEIU clarifying some incomplete information published in the R-J. The moderator for the event will be Karen Tumulty, political correspondent for Time magazine. The priviliged audience for the Democratic Presidential Candidates Forum on Health Care will consist of UNLV (I am assuming faculty, staff and students), members of the SEIU, and community members selected by the Center for American Progress Action Fund. Although I applaud the SEIU for co-sponsoring the event, I wish that it were open to more members of the public. The issue of health care is so large and immediate that any ideas for reform should have as public a forum as possible. Also, thank you to the SEIU for helping me keep my information as accurate as possible.

Entry from March 13:
I read in today’s R-J about a star-studded political forum on Mar 24 at UNLV that will give seven of the eight Democratic presidential hopefuls an opportunity to air their positions on health care. It sounds like just the kind of event we need to witness. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like negotiations with any TV network have succeeded in a telecast, nor does anyone seem to know who gets to be in the audience. We do know that the forum will be webcast live on the websites of the co-sponsors: SEIU (Service International Employees Union) and the Center for American Progress Action Fund (a pac of the think-tank Center for American Progress.)

Considering the impressive list of participants, including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich, and the portent of the topic, I would imagine they could pack the house. This will not be a debate, but rather a forum where each candidate will be given time to present their health care platform and then answer questions from moderator~~(s)~~ and audience. ~~There is no word either on who the moderator(s) would be~~. Present status: Mar 24, UNLV, what time?, exact venue?, ~~who will moderate?~~, ~~who will be allowed to attend?~~ ~~Not much to go on except~~ It’s still a dynamite possibility to hear and see some of the movers and shakers of our lives.

Black Mountain Institute on Vietnam & Iraq

Sandra — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 21:27:47 +0000

Hats off to Carol Harter, former UNLV President, who manifested her vision of a think tank of writers and artists and birthed the Black Mountain Institute in 2006. The BMI is composed of the Forum (Forum on Contemporary Cultures), the North American Network of Cities of Asylum (NANCA) and the International Institute of Modern Letters (IML). Determined to be a forum where all can express themselves, regardless of political and cultural orientation, the BMI’s mission is to provide “an environment where thinkers and writers from all segments of global society can fight against entrenched perspectives….”

BMI is sponsoring a two-day event with a panel of authors, historians, educators and veterans who will explore “The Vietnam War in Light of Iraq” – the politics and lessons (apparently not well learned) of the Vietnam conflict vis a vis the current war in Iraq.

There will be a panel discussion starting at 7pm on Wed Mar 21 with historian Charles Herring, Iraq War veteran Jimmy Castellanos, Vietnam native Nu Tran and UNLV Professor John Irsfeld. UNLV Professor Joseph (Andy) Fry will moderate. Thurs, Mar 22 @ 7 pm, the two novelists, Tim O’Brien, Vietnam veteran, and Robert Stone will read from their latest works.

These events are open and free to the public. You do not need tickets or reservations. You are advised to arrive early to get good seats. For more info: 702-895-5542. Attention to different meeting halls: The venue Wed, Mar 21 is Doc Rondo Hall, UNLV Artemus Ham Fine Arts Building; the venue Thur Mar 22 is Barrick Museum Auditorium. Both UNLV campus.

Taxes and Politics

Sandra — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 02:18:53 +0000

The dreaded season is upon us and the UNLV University Forum Lecture Series delivers a timely topic for we fellow citizen-sufferers. “Taxes and Politics: The IRS, Congress and How Federal Tax Laws Are Made.” That should be an interesting explanation – as if one could ever understand the how or why of any federal legislation, especially that dealing with funding. The lecturer is Prof. Steve Johnson of the Boyd School of Law. As usual for the series, there is no charge nor is registration required. Mon Mar 26. Barrick Museum Auditorium on UNLV campus. 7:30p

Home from Iraq

Sandra — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 22:24:49 +0000

With the heady title of “Meeting the Post Deployment Readjustment Needs of Military Members,” Josef I. Ruzek of the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder will describe those needs and offer techniques to help families, friends, and even returnees make the very difficult adjustment back to civilian life. Following the scandal in Washington DC around the treatment of returnees at Walter Reed Hospital, this presentation on their critical mental health counselling needs seems especially topical. Part of the University Forum Lecture Series funded by UNLV’s College of Liberal Arts. 702-895-3401. No fee, no reservation required. Fri Mar 23 7:30p Barrick Museum Auditorium UNLV campus.

Author Richard Wiley Reads

Sandra — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 23:56:56 +0000

UNLV professor and author, Richard Wiley, will read from his long-awaited “Commodore Perry’s Minstrel Show” at Barrick Museum Auditorium, UNLV campus. This novel is the prequel to his PEN/Faulkner Award-winning “Soldiers in Hiding.” His latest novel captures the complicated drama of Imperial Japan and expansionist America in the first throes of globalization. This is part of the University Forum Lecture Series sponsored by the UNLV College of Liberal Arts. It is co-sponsored by the Black Mountain Institute. No reservation required/no admission charge. 7:30 pm. Refer to UNLV website for complete lecture series.

Authenticity of Slave Narratives Debated

Sandra — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:31:20 +0000

History is constantly being written and re-written it seems. So much of what we think we know is based on the personal journeys, triumphs and failures of simple human beings, who through fate or will, succeeded in changing the course of events in some special way. We study those individual lives, often through letters, authoritative biographies and narratives to gain insight into what we then label as the true past. When the authenticity of those narratives and biographies is called into question, it threatens everything we believe, or have been led to believe. If the case for invalidity is proven, history is re-written.

One such case is the story of Olaudah Equiano, a 18th century Igbo ex-slave and abolitionist. Prof. Catherine Acholonu, the researcher responsible for the narrative of Equiano (also known as Gustavus Vassa), will be at the Horn Theatre at CCSN Cheyenne Campus on Tuesday, Feb 27 to defend her work against a book written by Prof. Vincent Carretta, “Equiano the Africa: Biography of a Self Made Man.” The debate transcends the issue of one man’s biography; the controversy over slave narratives casts shadow on such accepted accounts as the “middle passage” of Africans aboard the hellish slaving ships. This program is offered as part of Black History Month. Horn Theatre CCSN 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave.

related: Black History Month

Darfur, One Story Behind the Headlines

Sandra — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:08:15 +0000

Continuing its mission to bring the world to Las Vegas, The Las Vegas World Affiars Council is co-sponsoring with the Diversity Committees of the Community College of Southern Nevada, UNLV and Nevada State College an evening with award-winning film director Jon Shenk to give an insider look at the situation in Darfur and Sudan. Part of a series of Black History Month events at the three schools, Shenk will screen his documentary, “The Lost Boys of Sudan,” and be avaliable for questions. The event is Feb 21 at 6:30 pm at Horn Thearter, CCSN Cheyenne Campus 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave, North Las Vegas. FREE Admission. The public is encouraged to attend. Pls go to www.lvwac.org for more details.

NSA Speakers Workshop

Sandra — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 22:24:05 +0000

The Las Vegas Chapter of the National Speakers Association (NSA) holds periodic education programs with guest presenters (professional speakers with impressive resumes) that are designed for continuing training for their members. But the educational programs are open to the interested public and a great place to network. Presenters speak on diverse topics and in a variety of styles. The NSA is a group of confident, thinking individuals who enjoy the art of communicating. I attended a fascinating meeting with Steve Pavlina who authors the highly rated website www.StevePavlina.com, dealing with “Personal Development for Smart People.” Steve has successfully created an impressive income stream communicating his search for truth via web and blog technology.

The Saturday, March 17th meeting starts at 9:00 am and goes to 4:00 pm with the day divided into “Story Theater” in the morning and “Dynamite Speech” in the afternoon. The presenter Doug Stevenson, actor and keynote speaker, is the creator of the The Story Theater Method and author of “Never Be Boring Again – Make Your Business Presentations Capture Attention, Inspire Action and Produce Results.” The program provides opportunity for Q&A at end of day. Location of the meeting: Samurai Room, Imperial Palace Hotel. Visit the website for registration and pricing info: www.nsa-lasvegas.com