Every Tuesday we show 3 TED Talks on our wall sized screen organized around a common theme.

This weeks theme: The Mind

Gero Miesenboeck reengineers a brain In the quest to map the brain, many scientists have attempted the incredibly daunting task of recording the activity of each neuron. Gero Miesenboeck works backward -- manipulating specific neurons to figure out exactly what they do, through a series of stunning experiments that reengineer the way fruit flies perceive light.

Dan Gilbert asks, Why are we happy? Harvard psychologist Dan Gilbert says our beliefs about what will make us happy are often wrong -- a premise he supports with intriguing research, and explains in his accessible and unexpectedly engaging talk.

VS Ramachandran on your mind Vilayanur Ramachandran tells us what brain damage can reveal about the connection between celebral tissue and the mind, using three startling delusions as examples.

This is the inaugural year of TEDxPortland. TEDx is a program of local, independently organized events that bring people together in the TED spirit of "ideas worth spreading." Our event will include live speakers and performers to spark deep discussion and connection. Please join us on April 30 for what we hope will be the first of many exciting and inspiring TEDxPortland events to come.

Please RSVP here: http://on.fb.me/e5Xvpu

Screening of some of the most recent and outstanding TEDtalks. Spread and share ideas.

Update: This event has been postponed until further notice-

If you’ve ever felt there isn’t enough time in the day to accomplish your goals, this is for you.

Spark Weekend 2014 brings together 20+ technology and lifestyle change experts to provide TED-style talks, experiential workshops, and the latest in lifestyle change tech to measurably improve your health, productivity, and relationships.

A Spark Weekend is an opportunity to improve your life in a fun, friendly environment.

• Day 1 is about learning. Our speakers share their favorite lifestyle change tools and techniques in 20 minute sessions.

• Day 2 Our mentors coach you to implement what you learned the day before. You come back with your laptop and directly work on your goals.

It’s not over when you leave!

• Day 30 is about winning. You get $30 cash back if you reach your goals; more if you put your own money on the line.

And in the spirit of open science, we publish our results in helping you change.

A Spark Weekend ticket makes a great gift for your friends, family, and colleagues! But not for people you don't like--don't give them any advantage in 2014.

As an added bonus, ~10% of every ticket sold goes to a community fund for those who cannot otherwise afford to attend.

*Special discount for Calagator folks. First 30 enter "CALAGATOR" when registering for -20%. Sign up before seats fill up!

Enjoy us for a day filled with inspiration and ideas worth spreading!

14 live talks, 4 TED.com talks, 3 performances, happy hour, and post-event party at Keller Park. Don't miss out!

TED talk + effective networking! Join speaker Yasmin Nguyen as he gives a TED-style talk designed to help you learn how to attract more business, inspire donors, and build avid brand champions who will share your stories over and over by “asking less and giving more.”

Following the talk, attendees will participate in circle up's effective master mind circles which are designed to create authentic business connections. Plus- paleo catering!

Grab your ticket today at: Picatic.com/Jan29

Yasmin Nguyen is a Portland-based philanthropist, social innovator, and strategic storytelling expert who helps business and nonprofits emotionally connect with their audiences through stories, technology, and partnerships to generates sales, relationships and support. He is the founder of Vibrance Global, Supper for Stars, and Philanthropy Talk, which brings together business, community and nonprofit leaders together to share ideas, insights, and feedback to better serve our community. Bringing together over 18 years in entrepreneurship, communications strategy, online marketing and design, video production, investing, relationship building, and coaching, Yasmin shares a unique perspective that connects the dots between relevant ideas for audiences. His mission is to facilitate more giving in our lives, community and world.