The Bologna Youth Exchange: On June 30, Portland welcomed Chaperone Claudia Zerbini and her charges--Maria Sole, Egle, Michele, Giovanni, Silvia, Giulia, and Francesca. Housed with host families, our visitors spent two weeks learning about Portland and US culture. Group events included an Ice Cream Social at George Passadore's famous Car Barn, a trip to the Oregon Coast, a welcome reception with the mayor and another at Portland State University. The final event was a potluck picnic in Washington Park the day before they returned to Bologna.

This turned out to be a truly wonderful experience. We extend a heartfelt thanks to all who participated.

For impressions from our visitors (in Italian) and photos please take a look at the City of Bologna's website: http://www.giramondo.org/sezioni/sez169.aspx

October 28, Tuesday, 5:30-8:30. PBSCA 2nd Annual Fall Sagra at Square Deal Wine Company, 2321 NW Thurman, between NW 23rd and 24th. Don't miss the fun! Join us for wine tasting, Emilia Romagna aperitivi and a great silent auction. Tickets, which must be purchased ahead of time are $60 if purchased by Oct. 17 and $70 after the 17th. Proceeds help fund our Youth Exchange. Contact Angela Zagarella or Sally Hudson at bologna@pdx.edu or tel.503.725.5255.

Tuesday, March 24 5:30-7:00 at Zancanella Imports at 309 SE Pine (and 3rd). Wine, appetizers, raffle, and fun--all for $15.00. Send your check (made out to PBSCA) by March 17 to Ray Verzasconi at 2336 NE 12th, Portland 97212.

March 1-31 PBSCA Supporters Drive 2009

May 19, Tuesday. Annual Open Board Meeting and Elections, followed by Supporters dinner at Piazza Italia.

June 15-June 30. PBSCA Youth Exchange. A group of 6-7 young Portlanders head to Bologna, as part of the Portland Bologna Youth Exchange.

July 21, Tuesday. Board Retreat.

August 22, Saturday. Festa 2009 Opens.

August 27-30, Thursday-Sunday. Festa at Pioneer Square. Stop by the PBSCA table!

Sept. 15, Tuesday. Board Meeting

October 27, Tuesday. Third Annual Sagra di Bologna fundraiser.

Nov. 17, Tuesday. Board Meeting

December 15, Tuesday. PBSCA Supporters Holiday dinner at Nostrana.