I wanted to bring two of this week's events to your attention. I'm taking note of them because they're important in a few different ways.

First, tonight the Oregon Bus Project and the Portland Mercury are presenting the next in their Debate Club series. This week's topic, military action in Iran:

Start: 11/27/2007 - 7:00pm
End: 11/27/2007 - 9:00pm

Rontom’s, 600 E. Burnside
7:00, 21+

Chances are you’ll be over-flowing with turkey and overwhelmed with family, so roll on down to a bar, and bring the parents, siblings, and your long lost uncle’s sister’s kinfolk to watch some lively, heated political discussion.

Your friendly, neighborhood politically-minded non-profit (that’s us) teams up with the Mercury to bring you another installment of our monthly political forum. We actually read your surveys, so we’re bringin’ you what you want (does it get any better than that?).

Dr. Goudarz Eghtedari, of Portland’s American Iranian Friendship Council, will be representing the standpoint that America should not attack Iran.

Larry Oeth, the Treasurer of the Multnomah County Republican Committee, will advocate for the use of military action in Iran.

This one should be extremely interesting. Everyone knows how America last preemptive war has gone, and it is my personal opinion that such a strike against Iran would be foolish. War as an "in-advance" policy invites troubles, and the Iraq War should serve as a painful, present reminder of this. But I'm interested in reading what both sides have to say (alas, I cannot attend).

Next, Sean Cruz, the Chief of Staff to State Senator Avel Gordly, is kicking off his own run at his boss' seat:

When: Thursday, November 29, 2007
Time: Starts 6:30 p.m.
Location: Tupelo Joe's, 10721 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland

Tupelo Joe's is a nonsmoking venue, specializing in family-style barbecue and blues; minors are welcome before 9 p.m.

There is no admission charge for this event. This event is a fund-raiser to support the candidacy of Sean Cruz for election to the Oregon State Senate, representing Senate District 23.

Please bring four items of non-perishable food for the NE Emergency Food Bank. Winter food stocks are far lower than what is needed.

The event will feature live Latin music and should be a fun time. I make note of this event for two reasons. First, the 23rd Senate District is my home district, and the political happenings within are highly intriguing to me. Second, I met Sean at the Merkley blogger event, and he strikes me as a thoughtful, passionate man. I'd love to learn more about his candidacy and ideas, and so I'll do my best to attend his kickoff so I can cover the event for our blog.

In fairness and for equal time, Jackie Dingfelder is also running for the 23rd SD seat. From what I read on her website and from her past work as the State Rep for the 45th House District, she seems like an awesome option as well. Moreover, she touts many very impressive supporters whose opinions and endorsements I value. It's truly the beginning of an embarrassment of riches for the 23rd. It'll sure be fun to see how the race unfolds, and update with posts accordingly!

Oh, and a fun sidenote: this seems to be our 200th blog post. Rejoice!