IH Lara Printz Led a NCIV Workshop in D.C.- February 15, 2006. Lara Printz was among 12 trainers nominated to lead a workshop at the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) Annual Conference in Washington D.C. The training was designed to teach the basics of establishing an IVLP program.

Volunteer Recognition Party- March 10, 2006. International House celebrated our wonderful, hardworking volunteers! Over 60 people attended the volunteer celebration and enjoyed delicious food, a fun program, and most importantly, an opportunity for our staff to say a big THANK YOU!

A Gourmet Afternoon - March 26, 2006. International House and Alliance Francaise of Charlotte organized an Art Exhibition / Gourmet Afternoon to celebrate the International Day of Francophony. The event featured the art of 8 local French, French speaking and Francophile artists celebrating the "Spirit of France". Over 100 people enjoyed amazing art pieces and tasted delicious petits fours made by a French Chef.

Award-Winning Poet Lecture - April 5, 2006. Doorway's (The International Women’s Group) explored their creative writing talents with award-winning poet and teacher, Ms. Maureen Ryan Griffin. She is the author of "Scatter of Blossoms", "When the Leaves are in the Water", and her new book, "Spinning Words into Gold." Maureen has taught writing and the creative process for over 10 years and currently offers classes on poetry, food writing, collage and more through WordPlay. www.maureenryangriffin.com.

Immigration in the News on WBT Radio- April 10, 2006. The Executive Director of International House appeared on WBT Radio's Keith Larson Show. David joined a panel of immigration experts to debate the economic and social impact of immigration in the greater Charlotte region.

Turkish Parliamentary Delegation Visits Charlotte - April 19 – 21, 2006. Through the International Visitor Leadership Program, 8 Union Leaders and Parliamentarian Members from Turkey had the opportunity to visit Charlotte. To understand the group's theme of “Privatization of Municipal Government Services” they met with municipal government representatives, Former Mayor Richard Vinroot, local union leaders, and experienced a home dinner reception.

" The Business Impact of Immigration Reform" Panel - April 20, 2006. David Stewart joined other community leaders at an immigration panel co-hosted by the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and the Latin-American Chamber of Commerce. The panel examined how immigration is affecting local businesses.

"The Economic Impact of Latino Immigration" Workshop -April 24, 2006. David Stewart was a speaker at this workshop, sponsored by UNCC and the Urban Institute. The discussions highlighted current immigration issues in our community.