MIC programs cover the world to keep you up-to-date on global events. We also offer an annual series focusing on a specific country - this year is MIC's Year of China. This series of thematic programs will focus on the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of China, including an informative, daylong symposium featuring several, high-level experts on China; and an elegant benefit gala. Year of China Highlights Join Governor Ventura, MIC and the Minnesota Trade Office on Monday, October 7th, at 4:00 pm to learn more about the recent Governor's trade mission to China. A panel of trip participants from various business sectors will share the details of their visit and the lessons learned. Year of China Public Forums Public forums for the Year of China explore China today, with an emphasis on economics, politics, U.S.-China relations, and Chinese society, traditions and the arts. MIC program speakers are always of the highest caliber and are drawn from a variety of professions and political viewpoints. For past focus years we have typically been honored to host the country's current ambassador to the United States, senior government ministers, leaders from the non-governmental sector as well as prominent journalists and authors. Click here to view the latest in MIC's public forums. Something for the Classroom - China in a Suitcase Somewhere between a travel trunk and a culture kit, the latest addition to MIC's library of international resources is China in a Suitcase. MIC packs the valise full of age-appropriate resources before each school visit. When "China in a Suitcase" arrives in the classroom, it is sure to pique students' curiosity about China. To make the experience even more personal, an MIC International Speaker from China will accompany the suitcase to introduce this region of the world to the class. This introduction to China does not end after the speaker leaves because the suitcase will stay in the class for two weeks giving the students a chance to explore all the resources inside! When the MIC volunteer arrives to collect the suitcase, the students are left with a deeper understanding of China. For ideas on how to use China in a Suitcase in your class or for more information, call MIC at 612.625.4421 or email Annual Symposium In the Spring, MIC will host an annual symposium, featuring high-level experts from China, and focusing on business and trade relations between China, the United States and Minnesota. We expect more than 200 corporate leaders to attend. Keep your eye on our Upcoming Events for the latest information on the Year of China! Annual Gala Benefit The Minnesota International Center's 2003 annual gala benefit will take place in late Spring. The benefit will celebrate the culture, arts and cuisine of China - and the connections that exist between the people of China and Minnesota. Keep your eye on our Upcoming Events for the latest details on the MIC Benefit or call MIC at 612.625.4421 or email mic@globe.mic.umn.edu to be added to the invitation list. MIC is planning for over 400 benefit guests. The benefit is MIC's largest single fundraising activity, bringing in about 20 percent of the organization's annual budget and helping to support MIC's educational and public affairs programs in the state. Other Organizations Involved with China: Asian Pages www.asianpages.com Asia Society www.asiasociety.org China Center at the University of Minnesota www.chinacenter.umn.edu China Insight www.chinainsight.info Chinese American Association of Minnesota www.caam.org Friendship Association of Chinese Students and Scholars www.tc.umn.edu/~facss Minnesota Chinese Student Association www.tc.umn.edu/~mcsa Organization of Chinese Americans www.ocanatl.org © Minnesota International Center