"Know Neighbors" throughout March at Deschutes Public Library
Posted By: Tina Walker Davis
Date Posted: 2/14/2018
Who are the people in your neighborhood? Does your neighborhood consist of your street, or do you take a more global perspective? Look at issues both close to home and far away this March as we explore the connections that define us. We’ll consider the lives of immigrants from Mexico, try out one of Canada’s most beloved sports, check in with Bend’s Neighborhood Associations, and get to know more about the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. All programs are free and open to the public; registration required for programs noted with an asterisk (*).
Your Mexican Immigrant Neighbors
Why are there so many Mexican immigrants in the United States, and why are so many of them undocumented? In this talk, Julie M. Weise, an Associate Professor of History at the University of Oregon, will help us answer this question. She’ll explore the history of Mexican immigration to the United States, the “push” and “pull” factors that have brought so many here, and legal changes that have left so many vulnerable to deportation. She will also be happy to engage in conversation about the Trump administration’s policies towards Mexico and Mexican immigration.
- Friday, March 2 - 1:00 p.m. - Sisters Library | 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters
- Sunday, March 4 - 1:00 p.m. - Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend
Make a Flower for a Friend*
Craft a beautiful flower to share with a neighbor! Create paper poppies made with Italian crepe paper. Pink, peach and white flowers with elegant leaves, stems, and glittery pistons. Workshop led by Jennifer Nordby. Spaces is limited and registration is required; register using either of the links below.
Building Community
Drawing from cultures around the world, explore the ways in which communities thrive. Humans as a whole are a diverse group in terms of our varied practices and beliefs. Sometimes this diversity seems divisive, but humans also have capacity for building community across diversity. Drawing on examples from around the world, COCC professor Amy Harper explores some of the ways in which community is created and maintained.
Curling: Favorite Sport of Canada*
Learn about the rules and history of curling, and take a turn on the ice with Bend Curling Club. Before heading out to the ice (sheet) members of the Bend Curling Club will share tips and techniques for getting started. In Canada, curling has steadily grown in popularity since the first club was formed in Montréal in 1807.
- Wednesday, March 7 -10:30 a.m.–noon - The Pavilion | 1001 SW Bradbury Drive, Bend
State of the Neighborhoods
Get an update on your neighborhood from the Bend Neighborhood Associations. Neighborhood Associations maintain and improve the quality of life in the city, increase citizen participation in local decision making, and form an effective partnership between the city and neighborhood residents. There are currently 13 Neighborhood Associations recognized by the Bend City Council.
At the Table*
It’s easy to see what divides us. Religion. Political viewpoint. Gender. Race. But what would happen if we spent time together figuring out what we have in common? Deschutes Public Library is welcoming 20 individuals that might not normally come in contact with each other to sit down for a meal and spend two hours listening and building community through conversation as part of the Know Neighbors series. Jason Graham hosts. “At the Table” provides the opportunity for respectful conversation through guided activities, and yummy food shared among 20 guests who have different points of view, but a desire to know each other better. Space is limited and registration is required.
- Monday, March 12 - 5:30 p.m. - McMenamins Old St. Francis School | 700 NW Bond Street, Bend
Preparing Our Neighbors for Life after Prison
Returning to the community following incarceration presents a variety of challenges. We know that if people have the opportunity to prepare for those challenges, it improves their chances of success dramatically. That’s better for you, your family, and the community. In most Oregon prisons, classes are offered before release to help prepare releasing individuals to address their challenges, including employment and housing, however, it takes community support and resources to really help people be successful. Hear from Deer Ridge Correctional Institution Public Information Officer Marissa Wilson.
Immigraton 101
Quinn Aldrus, a community relations officer with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, discusses immigration issues past and present, including family- and work-based immigration, temporary visitor visas for work or tourism, and other related topics. Aldrus welcomes questions and plans to engage in a wide-ranging conversation about immigration policy, process, and law—both current and historic.
Local Trivia Challenge
Get your team together for an evening of local trivia hosted by Alastair Jaques. Food and beverages available for purchase.
- Tuesday, March 20 - 6:00 p.m. - McMenamins Old St. Francis School | 700 NW Bond Street, Bend
The Museum at Warm Springs: Heritage Highlights
The Museum at Warm Springs is celebrating 25 years as a community treasure and key cultural resource. On March 14, 1993, The Museum at Warm Springs opened its doors as a living repository and center to perpetuate the culture and heritage of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. To mark this milestone, the Museum will present on highlights, significant events, individuals, and activities integral to the Museum’s mission.
For more information about these programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz Goodrich at lizg@deschuteslibrary.org or 541-312-1032.