The series is hosted by longtime local journalist and Portland Monthly's editor in chief, Randy Gragg. Bright Lights has brought many of Portland's most dynamic leaders to stage to not only talk about issues facing the city but to reveal a little of themselves. The relaxed setting of Portland's leading jazz bar allows the audience to grab a drink and a bite and learn more about the city and the pe
ople shaping it. The question-and-answer format led by one of Portland's leading journalists helps get past the sound bytes and packaged messages. The audience is welcome to jump in, too. Since commencing in February, 2008, Bright Lights has hosted guests as Neal Keny Guyer, CEO of Mercy Corps; Congressman Earl Blumenauer; then-Metro president David Bragdon; Erin Flynn, the city's director of economic development; leading structural engineer Ann Monier; advertising guru Dan Wieden; and many others. Bright Lights has also hosted guests who are shaping cities elsewhere: Tim Stonor of the groundbreaking London planning firm, Space Syntax; renowned New York exhibition designer Ed Schlossberg; and legendary Houston artist/activist Rick Lowe. As well, Bright Lights has hosted political debates for the offices of mayor and Metro president and brought leaders together to tackle issues such as the Columbia River Crossing and the Rose Quarter redevelopment.
