Gail Bowen McCormick is married to an icon. Most of Portland and much of the U.S. has dined at a McCormick and Schmick restaurant. Most of Portland knows Bill McCormick as the gregarious host.

Here's what many people don't know...Gail is the witty, inspiring, candid, and accomplished lady who is the perfect compliment for the politically passionate "icon". This dynamic duo (a bit trite but true!) charmed the people of New Zealand as Bill served as U.S. Ambassador from 2005-2008.

Gail's story is about an adventure where "nothing prepares you"! Her accomplishments and experiences, delivered in Gail's sassy (and oh-so articulate) way, will amuse and amaze you. Don't miss this event!!!!

About Gail
Gail McCormick, a 4th generation Oregonian, is an athlete, writer, philanthropist and mom. As an athlete, Gail was the first woman to lifeguard on the Oregon Coast which led her to a bold solo attempt to swim the English Channel at age 22. In 2001, Gail helped make a dream come true for Karen Gaffney, a woman with Down Syndrome, completing a relay swim across the English Channel in just over 14 hours! (Karen and Gail shared their story with The Link, Feb. 2005.)

Gail has incorporated her passion for sport into several philanthropic causes to include the Easter Seals, Mother March for the March of Dimes, and Outward Bound. She has also served on the Board of Trustees for the Portland Art Museum and was an Executive Board Member for the Portland Community of Writers.

While in New Zealand, Gail traveled to Kenya with her close friend and 12 kids (!) and worked in the Masaai village of Maji Moto.  They established deep friendships with the indigenous people of the area and started a 501(c)3 charity for the Massai named Jamii Moja (One Family One World) in hopes that this village will become the blue-print for other African communities.

Gail was a general insurance broker with The Bowen Agency, her family owned insurance agency for 10 years and was Vice President when she retired in 1992 to be a full time mother. The Bowen Agency, founded by Gail's Grandfather in 1927, was one of the oldest family owned and operated insurance agencies in Oregon when the agency was sold in 1993. Gail has been married to Bill McCormick since 1982, has 4 children, 2 step children, 4 grandchildren... WHEW!!!

Non-Profit Spotlight
The overall Vision of Jamii Moja is to support independent African communities living in their natural environment through the establishment of self sustaining programs. The Mission of Jamii Moja is to provide African communities with the support and infrastructure to promote micro-enterprises, sustainable farming and land conservation with focus on education, healthcare and the progressive treatment of women. Click here for more information!

About The Link
The Link is a community that seeks to help you flourish and reach your full potential by connecting with smart, respected experts and peers from all walks of life as reliable resources. Our events and seminars provide knowledge to make informed decisions and inspiration to think beyond in a safe, relaxed environment with no expectations. It's all about YOU! Click Here to check us out!

Cost (Includes tapas and no-host cocktails)
Pre-Paid Members $30/ Non-Members $45 (By NOON, day of event)
At the Door Members $35/ Non-Members $50
Click Here to become a member

Agenda
5:30 - 6:30 Tapas, cocktails and linking
6:30 - 8:00 Conversation and Q & A
8:00 - 8:30 A final cocktail/more linking
Click Here to register for event

Location
The Hotel deLuxe
729 SW 15th Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97205
www.hoteldeluxeportland.com