Around the Sun: A Blog About Saving Money in Portland, Oregon, and beyond

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: May 1–3

Remember: On Sunday, May 3, admission to OMSI is just $2.

Also, the new Dutch Bros. location in Tigard will be giving away free drinks all day on Friday, May 1. 11746 SW Pacific Hwy in Tigard, Oregon. Right on 99W off of HWY 217.

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, May 1

• Cinco De Mayo Fiesta at Waterfront Park: Admission is free before 4:00 pm on Friday. For more information, visit the event website.

• May Day Celebration: Watch local kids skip around the May pole, reenacting a century-old Portland public schools tradition. Enjoy other kids’ entertainment, live music, belly dancing and more. Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave), 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Admission Night at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

• First Friday Art Openings: Check the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of open galleries. In addition, Multnomah Art Center, Artful Goods, Tilde, and Press Club will host artist receptions.

• First Friday in Multnomah Village: During this monthly event, shops and galleries stay open late and offer special events, sales and complimentary refreshments. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah Village website.

• First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Camas: “Camas First Fridays” occur throughout the year on each first Friday of the month. Art exhibits featuring local artists, dining, and themed shopping events provide fun for all. 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Southerly, Soft Tags, and Themes will perform at Doug Fir (830 E. Burnside) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Marianne Dissard (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bruce Kracke (website) will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Marcus Reynolds will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Clear Creek (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Author Paul Dickson will talk about his book “The Dickson Baseball Dictionary” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Emily Whitman will talk about her book “Radiant Darkness” at 7:00 pm at Looking Glass Bookstore (7983 SE 13th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, May 2

• Home Ownership Preservation Event: This event will provide information and workshops on refinancing your loan, avoiding foreclosure scams, government housing programs, and more. Portland Memorial Coliseum (300 Winning Way), 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Hawaiian Festival: Enjoy hula performances from Washington and Oregon halau, Hawaiian food, music, and more. Thomas Jefferson Middle School (3000 NW 119th St, Vancouver), 11:00 am–7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Comic Book Day: Several comic book shops will be giving away free comic books. To find a participating shop near you, visit the event website and use the shop locator on the left side of the screen.

• Food Art for Kids: Using Saxton Freymann’s books for inspiration, author and artist Addie Boswell will help kids make characters out of fruits, vegetables and other edibles. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Hwy), 10:30 am–noon. For more information, visit the event website.

• Create a Rain Stick: Kids and their families are invited to learn about the lore of the rain stick in Africa and other cultures. Then create and decorate your own. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm–4:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Restoration of the Creek.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• The Grouch & Eligh (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Classical guitarist Peter Fletcher (website) will perform at Beaverton Library (12375 SW 5th St, Beaverton) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mood Area 52 will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• David Ward will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bryant Allard Quartet (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Kris Deelane (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

Sunday, May 3

• Pretty Dress Bike Ride: All are welcome to join this annual ride, but you must come wearing a pretty dress. The ride will end at a picnic spot. Wear your bloomers, bring a picnic blanket and bring something yummy to share plus your own utensils. Meet at SE Ladds Circle (in the Center), near 1996 SE Ladd Ave, at 2:00 pm. Length of the ride is a few hours, depending on how the group feels. For more information, contact bikebat at gmail dot com.

• King Louie & Baby James (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Opera Preview: “Rigoletto”: This lecture/concert covers historical background, composer information and musical selections from the show. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Congratulations and Old Believers will perform at 9:00 pm at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave). Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mary Flower (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Author Chesa Boudin will talk about his book “Gringo” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Gary Thompson and Richard Robbins will read from their respective books at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

3 comments April 30th, 2009

Free Faxing and Resume Printing at Office Depot (Ends May 30, 2009)

Through May 30, 2009, Office Depot will offer customers free copies of resumes and free faxing.

From the Office Depot press release:

Customers will be able to participate in this special offer by visiting the Design, Print, & Ship Depot center in any one of the more than 1,100 Office Depot retail store locations nationwide. Office Depot is providing free copies of resumes, up to 25 single-sided pages, as well as free faxing to five different domestic numbers, up to 25 pages in total.

Thanks to The Freebie Blogger for the heads up!

2 comments April 25th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 24–26

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Carnival Days at Eastport Plaza: Enjoy live music, children’s activities, carnival rides, classic car show, and more. On Saturday, come early to watch the start of the 82nd Avenue of Roses parade. For more information, visit the event website.

• Art Shows/Sales at Oregon Convention Center: View the work of artists from the Creative Metal Arts Guild, Oregon Potters Association, Portland Handweavers Guild, Oregon Glass Guild, Portland Bead Society, Northwest Fine Woodworkers, and Guild of Oregon Woodworkers. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, April 24

• Asian Heritage Night: This event is free for all to enjoy culturally specific performances, arts and crafts, and food. East Portland Community Center (740 SE 106th), 6:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, click here.

• Colored Pencils Art & Culture Night: This is a monthly open mic and art show hosted by people from Asian, African, Arab, Slavic and Latino backgrounds. Center for Intercultural Organizing (700 N. Killingsworth St), 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. For more information, click here.

• Weinland will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Carmina Luna will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Dan McCoy will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mary Kadderly (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Oregon State Poetry Association Reading: Created in 1956, the Oregon State Poetry Association seeks to bring together and nurture the widest possible community of Oregon poets. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 5:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Jane Hamilton will talk about her book “Laura Rider’s Masterpiece” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Jackpot Records Film Festival: “TV Carnage” and “Totally for Teens” will be showing at Hollywood Theater (4122 NE Sandy Blvd) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 25

• Earth Day 2009 Festival: Join fellow Portlanders in a city-wide celebration of Earth Day 2009 at Wallace Park (NW 25th and NW Raleigh) from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. The event includes live music, food, and a showcase of local non-profit organizations and businesses that support sustainable practices. Information from Neighborhood Notes.

• 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade: This year’s parade features the first public appearance of the full 2009 Rose Court Princesses and over 40 other groups. Starts at 9:00 am at Eastport Plaza (4000 SE 82nd Ave), heads north to SE Yamhill St and disbands in the Montavilla area. For more information, visit Neighborhood Notes.

• Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 25 and 26. For more information, visit the event website.

• Nez Perce Chief Redheart Memorial: A traditional memorial to remember Chief Redheart’s band, including singing in honor of the ancestors, the Riderless Horse (Empty Saddle) Ceremony, the Sacred Pipe Ceremony, and recognition of veterans. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site (5th St and Park Access Rd), 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tigard Celebrates “A Century of Curtis Tigard”: Drop in for cake, toasts and big band music to celebrate the life of a man who has meant so much to this community. Tigard Public Library, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Acupuncture Day: Brooklyn Community Acupuncture (1212 SE Powell Blvd) will offer free treatments between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm. No appointments, walk-in only. For more information, visit the event website.

• Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Springing Plants.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Looking for Papito, Family Stories from Latin America: Join award-winning solo performer, storyteller and author Antonio Sacre for a special family performance. Sacre’s repertoire, tailored to his audience, includes his own stories of growing up biculturally in a Cuban and Irish-American household. Presented in both English and Spanish. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Music for Toddlers: Join award-winning singer/songwriter and Gentle Wind recording artist Pam Donkin for fun with music. She will perform at different Portland-area libraries throughout the day. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mexican Folk Dance: Ballet Papalotl will perform at North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St) at 12:00 pm and Rockwood Library (17917 SE Stark St) at 3:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Oregon Symphonic Band will perform at the auditorium at Jackson Middle School at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mariachi Viva Mexico will perform at Rockwood Library (17917 SE Stark St), 2:30 pm–3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Curtis Peoples, Josh Hoge and Tony Lucca will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Chris Margolin & Friends (website) will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Eddie Parente will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Massive 6: Crème de la Crème with Dr. Adam, Demetre Baca and Pandemonium Jones: This monthly benefit is a dance party, fashion show, and more. Say “LifeisaParty” at the door and get in free before 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. Crown Room, 205 NW Fourth Ave.

• Eric John Kaiser (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Whose Your Mama? The Unsung Voices of Women and Mothers”: Portland authors Kelly Jeske, Mary Foulk, Sonali Balajee, and Liz Prato will share stories about open adoption, queer family-making, the clash between traditional cultures and personal desire, and the decision to remain childfree. In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 B NE Killingsworth St), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Erin Hunter will talk about her book “Sunrise” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Comics Artists Dylan Meconis and Erika Moen will present their respective books, “Bite Me!” and “DAR: Volume One,” at Sequential Art Gallery (328 NW Broadway, No. 113), 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. Ages 18+. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Oregon at Work” Launch Party: The Portland launch for the book “Oregon at Work” will be at the Oregon Historical Society (1200 SW Park Ave) from 10:00 am–12:00 pm. For more information on the book, click here.

• Slideluck Potshow: This is a potluck and art show. Bring a dish to share and watch local photographers present slides of their work. Sandbox Studio (420 NE 9th Ave), 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ecoroof Vendors Fair: The event will provide designers, developers, homeowners and building owners with information and technical assistance about ecoroofs. 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Doubletree Hotel at Lloyd Center, Exhibition Hall (1000 NE Multnomah St). For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, April 26

• Earth Day Celebration at Tryon Creek Park: Bring the whole family to learn about beavers through arts and crafts, games, stories and more. Come dressed as your favorite animal for an afternoon parade. Refreshments served. 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 25 and 26. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mexican Folk Dance: Ballet Papalotl will perform at Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• In Mulieribus (website) will perform at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “The Harder They Come” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Progression is what every other jam session isn’t. Original compositions, odd time signatures, free form improvisation, and no rules. Hosted by Ben Darwish. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Journalist Michelle Goldberg will talk about her book “The Means of Reproduction” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Becoming Oregon: A Printed History: Robert Hamm will share newspapers, woodcuts, accurate and inaccurate maps, and early photographs from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the Lewis and Clark Exposition. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning: Learn the basics of wills, living trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives with attorney and author Richard Schneider. Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Vegan Cookbook Author Isa Chandra Moskowitz will talk about her work at Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 2:00 pm. Cooking demonstration included. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Mark Rudd will talk about his book “Underground” at 4:00 pm at Looking Glass Bookstore (7983 SE 13th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Paulann Petersen, John Blackard, Ana Callan, Kirstin Rian and David Hill will read their work at Ink & Paper Group (1825 SE 7th Ave). The event will begin at 3:30 pm with an hour of open mic poetry followed by a half-hour of conversation and dessert on the veranda. The first featured poet will begin reading at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

2 comments April 23rd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 17–19

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

In addition, Saturday is Family Day at the Oregon Historical Society. Up to two children (age 18 & under) get in free with each paid adult admission.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, April 17

• Focus the Nation’s Town Hall on the Clean Energy Future: More than 180 Congressional Districts across the country will hold town halls to help educate people on clean energy issues. In Portland, the town hall will take place at Portland State University, Hoffman Hall (1833 SW 11th Ave), 6:00 pm–9:00 pm. Congressman Earl Bluemanuer, Rep. Jules Bailey, Rep. Ben Cannon, Mayor Sam Adams, and Commissioner Jeff Cogen will discuss the city and state’s role in the transition to the new energy economy. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland is Burning is influenced heavily by New York street fashion, the dance style of “voguing,” gay dance music and the groundbreaking movie “Paris Is Burning.” Musical stylings brought by local DJs well known in the queer community as well as in Portland’s nightlife scene. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pete Krebs will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Michelle Medler Trio (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• New Old Friends (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Shakespeare Authorship Panel: Shakespeare scholars will lead a lively, provocative discussion about the possibility that Will Shakespeare, a butcher’s apprentice from Stratford-upon-Avon, was the author of the works attributed to William Shakespeare. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Storytellers Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo and Nancy Wang will share folk tales and myths of Asian traditions, as well as share personal and family histories that address the immigrant’s tale. This program is designed for adults and children ages 10 and above. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 NE Brookwood Parkway), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 18

• SOLV Earth Day Volunteer Projects: Celebrate Earth Day by helping clean up Portland. SOLV has organized cleanup projects at about 100 locations. 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Spring Greening Day on Mississippi Ave: Stores will be hosting blowout sales along with activities such as clothing swaps, demonstrations on reusing recyclable products, sustainable food systems, live music and more. 11:00 am–7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• YMCA Healthy Kids Day: Enjoy fun, engaging and creative activities for children and families at participating YMCAs. To find a participating YMCA near you, visit the event website.

• EcoFair at Salmon Creek Greenway: This event includes children’s activities, bird walk, wildlife show and more. 8:30 am–1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Community Health & Safety Fair in Tualatin: This event includes health screenings and presentations on stretching your food dollars, heart health and more. 10:00 am–3:00 pm at the Senior Center Building in Tualatin Community Park. For more information, visit the event website (PDF file).

• East Portland Homeownership Fair: This event includes workshops on home ownership and preventing foreclosure, “Ask the Experts” panels, free Burgerville lunch, and more. Open to anyone interested in buying their own home, and homeowners who are interested in finding ways to maintain and preserve their home. Kelly Elementary School (9030 SE Cooper St), 10:00 am–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 18 and 19. For more information, visit the event website.

• Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Coaling Tryon Creek.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Oregon Zoo at the Library: Meet a cast of animals from the Oregon Zoo such as a kind snake, a silent owl and a squeaky-clean cockroach. Oregon Zoo employees will share animal facts and introduce each species. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 10:30 am–11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gresham Recycle Event: Gresham and Wood Village citizens and businesses are invited to recycle electronics, paper, and more from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at City Hall. For more information, visit the event website.

• Record Store Day: At Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside), meet Queensryche and get your copy of their new album signed at 12:00 noon. At 2:00 pm, listen to the new Bob Dylan album before it comes out. Mary Flower and Lloyd Jones will perform at 3:00 pm, and Paula Sinclair will perform at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mariachi Viva Mexico will perform at Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd) at 3:30 pm. This six-piece Mariachi band includes trumpets, violins, guitars, guitaron and vihuelas to create lively, spirited music. For more information, visit the event website.

• Here Comes Everybody will perform at Burdigala Wine (8317 SE 13th) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the band’s website.

• Lindsey Stormo and Ben Darwish will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Sean Flynn will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Kate Mann (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• The Garcia Birthday Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Em Space Book Arts Center Open House: The event will include tours of the space and its historic, fully operational letterpress and bookbinding equipment; silent auction; raffle; libations and food; and the opportunity to pull a print on a big old press to take home. 407 SE Ivon St, 6:00 pm–10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Writer and editor Matt Love will discuss his unique approach to writing about Oregon, share some excerpts from his work, and talk about the challenge of being an independent Oregon publisher. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Storyteller Nancy Wang will share stories of early Chinese immigration to America. This program is designed for adults and children ages 10 and above. Beaverton City Library (12375 SW Fifth St), 10:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Storytelling Finale: The Immigrant Experience: Opening remarks will be made by Joan Yasui Emerson, the eldest Sansei (third generation) grandchild in the Yasui family, who is featured in the Oregon Reads selection “Stubborn Twig.” Storytellers Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo, Nancy Wang and Alton Takiyama-Chung will tell personal family stories. Refreshments provided by the Japanese-American Citizen’s League (JACL). Tigard Public Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd), 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “A Heart for Any Fate” Book Launch Party: Meet author Linda Crew and celebrate the release of “A Heart for Any Fate,” a young adult historical fiction novel about the Oregon Trail. The event will include a slideshow presentation by the author, a reading, and a book signing. McLoughlin House (713 Center Street Oregon City), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Artist David Paul Bayles will give a lecture at 23 Sandy Gallery (623 NE 23rd Ave) at 5:00 pm. David Paul Bayles is the featured artist in the gallery in April, showing photographs from his Falling Trees series. For more information, visit the event website.

• Panel Discussion at Portland Center Stage: Radio host Thom Hartmann, The Oregonian’s David Sarasohn and Jack Ohman, and journalism professor Al Stavitsky will discuss how politics and entertainment, power and truth, media, and public memory have been transformed in the intervening years since Watergate. Presented in conjunction with the opening weekend of “Frost/Nixon” at Portland Center Stage. Gerding Theater at the Armory (128 NW Eleventh Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the PCS website.

Sunday, April 19

• Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 18 and 19. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pirate Treasure Hunt: The Dollar Scholar (3279 SE Hawthorne) invites all ages to a treasure hunt on Hawthorne. 11:00 am–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Generation Green: An Earth Day Celebration: This event includes information and resources from earth-friendly organizations, repurposed crafts, seed giveaway and more. Creative Science School (1231 SE 92nd Ave), 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For additional information, email kathryn.schwartz @ comcast dot net.

• Concert for Babies and Toddlers: Local musician Matt Clark will play songs from his CD for kids called “Funny Little Fella.” Milagros Boutique (5433 NE 30th Ave), 1:30 pm–2:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Neah-Kah-Nie Project String Quartet Concert and Film Screening: Neah-Kah-Nie will perform at 2:00 pm at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave). This concert will be followed by a screening of the documentary “Susie Fennell Pipes and the Neah-Kah-Nie String Quartet” and a short documentary about the composer Ferdinand Sorenson at 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Japanese Traditional Koto Music: Mitsuki Dazai will give an introduction to Japanese traditions and culture through koto music. Her performance will demonstrate techniques on the instrument. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Paula Sinclair (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Bottle Rocket” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Astrophysicist and author Evalyn Gates will talk about her book “Einstein’s Telescope” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Michael Dickman and Michael McGriff will talk about their respective work at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Robert Dugoni will talk about his book “Wrongful Death” at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Lecture: Where Have All the Frogs Gone? Dr. Kerry Krieger, international research scientist, will talk about the impacts of disease, climate change and over-harvesting on different amphibian groups. Find out what you can do to help frogs. Water Resources Education Center (4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver), 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

2 comments April 16th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 10–12

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Easter Egg Hunts and Free Meals: Click here to read the Oregonian’s roundup of Easter egg hunts; many are free. The article also includes a couple of free Easter meals for those in need. A few more egg hunts are listed in Saturday’s roundup below.

Friday, April 10

• Spring Beer & Wine Fest: The festival takes place at the Oregon Convention Center (777 NE MLK Jr. Blvd) on Friday and Saturday. Admission is free from noon to 2:00 pm each day. For more information, visit the event website.

• Megan Callahan (website) will perform at Good Neighbor Pizza (800 NE Dekum St) at 9:00 pm.

• The Dust Bowl Refugees will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Lars Campbell Trio will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Jessica Stiles (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• SweetJuice (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Author John Law will talk about his book “The Space Between” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 11

• Spring Beer & Wine Fest: The festival takes place at the Oregon Convention Center (777 NE MLK Jr. Blvd) on Friday and Saturday. Admission is free from noon to 2:00 pm each day. For more information, visit the event website.

• Healthy Kids’ Fair: The event includes egg hunts for kids aged 1–8, bike helmets for sale for $5, child passenger seat safety check, tours of emergency vehicles, fingerprinting, and more. Legacy Emanuel Hospital & Health Center (501 N. Graham), 10:00 am–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Egg-stravaganza Egg Hunt: Children, bring your basket and hunt for egg-filled treasures at the Overlook House (3839 N. Melrose Dr) from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Concordia Spring Egg Hunt: The Annual Concordia Spring Egg Hunt will be held near the playground along NE 37th Ave & NE Ainsworth. 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Egg Hunt in Lake Oswego: The Lake Oswego community is having an egg hunt for youngsters 10 years and younger at 9:00 am at Westlake Park. For more information, visit the event website.

• Easter Egg Hunt in Wilsonville: Kids aged 1–11 and their families are invited to an egg hunt in Memorial Park (8100 SW Wilsonville Rd), 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Critter Count 2009: Field biologist and author, Char Corkran, will train you to identify frogs, snakes, salamanders and lizards at the Vancouver Water Center. Then you’ll choose one of four sites in Clark County to count critters for two hours. Bring boots, warm clothes, your lunch and optional binoculars. Snacks, drinks, field guides and equipment will be provided. Meet at Vancouver Water Center (4600 SE Columbia Way) at 9:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Second Saturday at the Vancouver Water Center: Kids and their families are invited to explore the dry and wet worlds of amphibians and the ground-level habitat of snakes. 4600 SE Columbia Way, 1:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “The Northwest Hiking Essentials.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Build a Bird House: The Rebuilding Center will provide tools, reclaimed house materials and all the instruction your child needs to build a bird house. Most appropriate for grades K–5. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am–1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ben Darwish (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Miss Michael Jodell, Matt Brown and Allen Hunter will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• HaléLupé (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• The Brothers Jam (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Tax Help: Trained tax preparers will volunteer their time and expertise to help you with your tax forms. Bring last year’s return and this year’s paperwork. This program is sponsored by AARP. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bright Neighbor founder and Lawns to Gardens editor Randy White shows ways to thrive during times of economic and ecological duress. Learn about profitable startups that are perfect for urban entrepreneurs looking to start an earth-friendly business while helping the local economy. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Storyteller Alton Takiyama-Chung will present history-based stories about the complex Japanese-American World War II experience focusing on the US-based Internment Camps, the front lines in Europe, and the return of the Japanese to the West Coast. This program is designed for adults and children ages 10 and above. Tualatin Public Library (18878 SW Martinazzi Ave), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Dan Fisher & Rodney Koeneke will read their respective work at The Waypost (3120 N. Williams Ave) at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, April 12

• Bunny on a Bike Ride: Wear your best bunny costume and meet at one of eight locations. Everyone will ride to the Eastbank Esplanade by the Hawthorne Bridge and form one parade to a secret destination for a potluck and egg hunt. Bring a dish to share and your own plates/utensils. Rides start between 10:30 am and 11:00 am. For information on locations, visit the Shift to Bikes website.

• Horse Feathers (website) will perform at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Jon Koonce (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Down By Law” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Poor Claudia is a Portland-based literary and arts review that publishes prose, poetry, interviews, comics, translations, and visual art. Editors Marshall Walker Lee and Drew Swenhaugen invite you to hear readings from some of your favorite Portland writers. Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Carola Dunn, author of the Daisy Dalrymple series, will do a book signing at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

3 comments April 9th, 2009

40% Discount at Old Spaghetti Factory

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Old Spaghetti Factory is offering a 40% discount on select meals each Tuesday through May 26, 2009.

To find a location near you, visit the OSF website.

To see the menu with discount prices, click here.

Thanks Frugal Living NW for the heads up!

Add comment April 5th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 3–5

Wow, can you believe it’s the first weekend of April? On Sunday, admission to OMSI is just $2.

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, April 3

• Free Admission All Day at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

• First Friday Art Openings: Check the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of open galleries. In addition, Artful Goods, Tilde, and Press Club will host artist receptions.

• First Friday in Multnomah Village: During this monthly event, shops and galleries stay open late and offer special events, sales and complimentary refreshments. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah Village website.

• First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Camas: This month’s theme is “Who will pick the golden egg?” Every merchant you visit will provide you with an opportunity to pick the golden egg. 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Downtown Troutdale First Friday Art Walk: On the first Friday of each month, Historic Downtown Troutdale businesses host dozens of local artists exhibiting their works of art. 5:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, contact the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 503.669.7473 or visit their website.

• Staver Locomotive: At this family-friendly event, watch miniature trains run their course in a 10,000 sq ft warehouse and enjoy hot popcorn. Kids can draw their favorite train in the Children’s Craft Area. Dress warm. Staver Locomotive (2537 NW 29th Ave), 6:00 pm–8:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gordon Lee (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Chickweed (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Old Elbows (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Author Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson will talk about his book “The Face on Your Plate” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 4

• Trillium Festival: The event includes a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children’s crafts and activities, local vendors, live music performances and more. Tryon Creek State Park, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pearl District Bunny Hop: Bring your basket and follow the bunny trail to participating stores in the Pearl District. Participate in craft activities, gather goodies, and enjoy sweet treats. This is fun for children of all ages. 10:00 am–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Art Materials Swap: Bring art materials that have been collecting dust around the house and trade them for some new inspiration. Paints, (clean) fabrics, yarn, beads, buttons, pens, pencils and paper are welcome. 12:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Art Opening: Q Center and Focus on Youth Photography present a new collaborative art exhibit entitled “Through Their Eyes.” All youth displaying works identify as either gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Q Center (4115 N. Mississippi Ave), 4:00 pm–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Oregon Symphony Storytime: Enjoy music, hands-on crafts and fun for all ages. Each week features a visit from an Oregon Symphony musician who will play and provide an introduction to his or her instrument and orchestral music. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am–12:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Concert for Toddlers: Hear local songwriter Matt Clark play songs for toddlers from his debut album, “Funny Little Fella.” Mississippi Pizza Pub (3552 N. Mississippi Ave), 4:00 pm–5:00 pm. Visit www.mattclarkmusic.com to hear samples.

• Green River Ordinance (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.

• Dan Balmer (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Mood Area 52 (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Will West (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Tax Help: Trained tax preparers will volunteer their time and expertise to help you with your tax forms. Bring last year’s return and this year’s paperwork. This program is sponsored by AARP. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Start Your Creative Business” Workshop: Let the Independent Publishing Resource Center show you the basic ins and outs of starting your own creative business. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Crochet-a-thon: Museum of Contemporary Craft exhibiting artist Mandy Greer will show participants how to crochet, then she’ll make a sculpture out of the raw materials created. Bring yarn and fabric, new or reused, in all shades of blue, from very light to dark (but no navy, please!). The Lab at Museum of Contemporary Craft (724 NW Davis St), 4:00 pm–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Beats for Peace ‘Zine Release Party: Presented by United Voices/Beats for Peace and featuring live music by Thavius Beck, Cancer the Kid, Spamtron, DJ Grimmrock and The GummykubKrew, this is a free, all-ages event celebrating the release of the United Voices ‘zine. Donations accepted. AudioCinema (226 SE Madison), 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, contact Mireaya at 503.230.9427 or mmedina @ afsc.org.

• Author and PBS NewsHour anchor Jim Lehrer will talk about his book “Oh, Johnny” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, April 5

• Trillium Festival: The event includes a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children’s crafts and activities, local vendors, live music performances and more. Tryon Creek State Park, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• The Joy of Censorship: MAD Senior Editor Joe Raiola takes an illuminating, satiric and at times disturbing look at America’s most hotly debated First Amendment issues. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:30 pm–1:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Cello Project (website) will perform at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Nurses and Inside Voices will perform at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mary Flower (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “The Man Who Wasn’t There” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• “Singin’ in the Rain” will be showing at St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave) at 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Kathryn Cowles and Ely Shipley will talk about their respective work at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

1 comment April 2nd, 2009