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

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Feb 6–8

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

Friday, February 6

• Free First Friday 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 PORT for First Friday recommendations, as well as the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of galleries that will be open. In addition, Tilde, Bowl of Thistles and Press Club will host artist receptions.

• Downtown Camas First Friday Art Walk: This month’s theme is “A Chocolate Affair to Remember.” 5:00 pm to 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. For more information, please contact the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 503-669-7473 or visit their website.

• Toyz N More N The Hood: The Jacka, Luni Coleone & Cool Nutz, The Dirtball, Laroo and others will perform at the Roseland (8 NW 6th Ave) at 7:00 pm. A donation of two toys or articles of clothing gets you in free. All ages. 503.224.2038

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

• Carley Baer (website) will perform at Wine Unwind (1019 NW 11th Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mitzi Zilka (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• The Buckskins, Purple Heart, and Force Fed Lead will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event 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.

• Gil Reynolds Trio Plus (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 Nancy Atherton will speak at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Mario Livio will talk about his book “Is God a Mathematician?” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Technical Books (33 NW Park Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

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

Saturday, February 7

• Fix-It Fair: The Fix-It Fair offers exhibits and workshops on saving money, health, home maintenance, gardening and more. Free on-site child care and lunch from Burgerville provided. George Middle School (10000 N. Burr Ave), 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Taiko (website) will perform at Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham) from 2:30 pm to 3:15 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 “A Hike Back In Time.” 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 Symphony Storytime: This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun musical crafts. 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. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St), 1:00 pm–2:00 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• “The Lucky Teakettle” Puppet Show: Emily Alexander combines puppetry and storytelling as she performs a new version of an old tale from Japan. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 1:30 pm–2:00 pm and again from 3:00 pm–3:30 pm. Space at this program is limited. Free tickets for seating will be available at 1:00 pm. For more information, click here and here.

• Geri Allen (website) will perform at Kaul Auditorium at 8:00 pm. The Kaul Auditorium is located in Reed College (3203 SE Woodstock Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• 200 Candles for Felix Mendelssohn: Organized and led by violist Chris Kelsey, this free concert features members of Portland’s Classical Revolution playing Mendelssohn’s 9th String Symphony and the String Octet in E-Flat Major. Free birthday cake too. Community Music Center (3350 SE Francis St, 503.823.3177), 7:00 pm.

• Oregon Symphonic Band Winter Concert: The concert titled “This Land Is Your Land” includes traditional and popular American songs. Pat McElroy of KBPS Radio will serve as narrator in Aaron Copland’s “A Lincoln Portrait.” Jackson Middle School Auditorium (10625 SW 35th Ave), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gideon Freudmann (website) will perform at Ledding Library (10660 SE 21st Ave, Milwaukie) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Lefthand Monkey Wrench (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• H Duo (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 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.

• Adam + Kris (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.

• Book Swap for Kids and Teens at Camas Library: Bring books (still in good condition) that you are done with and trade them for new ones. Swap with others, or with a selection of children’s and teen books the library will provide. 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA. 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tax Help: Trained tax preparers will be at Gregory Heights Library to help you with your tax forms. Bring last year’s return and this year’s paperwork. This program is sponsored by AARP. Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Estate Planning for Traditional & Non-Traditional Families: Receive practical estate planning information to safeguard your finances and healthcare wishes during and after your lifetime. Common myths, wills, living trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney will be discussed. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Rosanne Parry will talk about her book “Heart of a Shepherd” at 1:00 pm at Garden Home Community Library (7475 SW Oleson Rd). For more information, visit the event website.

• “Apples to Oregon” Stories & Crafts: Celebrate the beginning of Oregon Reads with stories and crafts related to the Oregon Reads selection for young readers, “Apples to Oregon.” Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, February 8

• Free Admission to Portland Classical Chinese Garden: Admission to the garden will be free from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Japanese Tea Demonstration: Located in Portland, Oregon, Wakai Tea Association is a local chapter of the Urasenke Tradition of Tea, Kyoto, Japan. Watch the graceful tradition of the Urasenke Tea ritual. The ceremony is simply the preparation, serving and drinking of powdered green tea; yet within this simplicity lies the very heart of Japanese culture. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tales of Japan: Tears of Joy Theatre will present two stories appropriate for families. In “Gift,” Myoga and his comical goat meet a magical princess and learn that even a great and wonderful gift can have drawbacks. In the second story, the classic folktale “Momotaro” is told using an array of rod puppets and audience participation. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Caroline Oakley & Pete Leone (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

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

• African American Read-In: Local celebrities, community leaders and students will read from works by their favorite African American writers. Fiction and non-fiction for children and adults will be featured in an afternoon of good words from great works. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 2:30 pm–3:45 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.

1 comment February 5th, 2009

Lots of Deals in Willamette Week’s “Recession Busters”

Though it was published a week ago, I just read Willamette Week’s article “Recession Busters.” If you haven’t read it yet, you must. WW staffers did some excellent sleuthing and found dozens of freebies and discounts for all kinds of things in Portland: entertainment, food, travel, shopping, etc. Some deals are already over, but many are still alive or ongoing.

Here’s a sample of the deals that caught my eye:

• Dress entirely in red and get an extra 20% discount on apparel at Macy’s. Valid February 4–8.
• Earn a free order of large fries or small poutine at Potato Champion by answering a trivia question from one of two categories: Potato History or Serial Killers. Offer good 8:00 pm–3:00 am Wednesday–Thursday and 8:00 pm–10:00 pm Friday–Saturday through February 14.
• Drink for free for one hour at East Burn after 9:00 pm on your birthday. Offer is good for you and nine friends and includes unlimited draft beer and any bottles under $4, plus eight glasses of red or white wine. You have to sign up one week in advance. 
• Show up just before the start of a show at Portland Center Stage and get unsold tickets for $10 each (cash only). Portland Opera, Oregon Symphony and White Bird Dance also offer deep discounts on last-minute purchases, with restrictions.
• Sell your books at any Powell’s location and get an additional $5 in trade when you mention “Morrison the Squirrel.” Offer valid through February 14.  

I could go on, but eventually I’d just be summarizing the whole article. You can read it for yourself here. 

Now I wonder if my mom would mind if I gave her address to Saint Cupcake … ?

1 comment February 3rd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Jan 23–25

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

Friday, January 23

• “Battlestar Galactica” Final Season: Join KUFO’s Cort and Fatboy on Friday nights from January 16 through March 10 to watch the final 10 episodes of “Battlestar Galactica.” Bagdad Theater (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd). Doors open at 9:30 pm; show at 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, contact the Bagdad Theater or KUFO.

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

• Hello Loneliness, Shoeshine Blue, and Pancake Breakfast will perform at The Waypost (3120 N. Williams Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Quick & Easy Boys (website) will perform at LaurelThirst Public House (NE Glisan and 30th) from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Arz and Fractal will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• The Checkered Present (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.

• Authors Gar Alperovitz and Lew Daly will talk about their book “Unjust Deserts: How the Rich Are Taking Our Common Inheritance” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, January 24

• End Joblessness—A Mini Job Fair: This is an opportunity for potential employers and job seekers to come together. Employers will talk about their job openings, contracts and other opportunities. Ample time to mingle. OTBC (12725 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton), 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Dance Classes at BodyVox: Click here for more information. 

• Free Yoga Classes at Belmont Yoga: In honor of Yoga Day USA, Belmont Yoga (4246 SE Belmont, #4) will hold two free yoga classes. For more information, click here.

• Tea Party at Seattle’s Best: In celebration of National Hot Tea Month, participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes will host a tea party from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Complimentary samples of the new Vanilla Red Tea Latte as well as samples of other tea lattes and full leaf teas will be served. Please contact your local Seattle’s Best to see if it is participating. 

• Oregon Symphony Storytime: This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun musical crafts. 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. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am–noon. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Raven Steals the Sun” Children’s Puppet Show: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, this show tells how Raven the trickster brought light and warmth to the world. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 11:00 pm to 11:30 pm, and 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm. Free tickets for seating will be available at 10:30 am. For more information, click here and here.

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

• when the broken bow, The Chair Project, and Resin Hits will perform at The Waypost (3120 N. Williams Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Matt Tabor will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Casey Neill & friends will perform at LaurelThirst Public House (NE Glisan and 30th) from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Chickweed (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Damage Overdose and The Butchered Fixation will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Matt Meighan (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.

• Children’s Book Author Allen Say will talk about his new book “Erika-San” at A Children’s Place Bookstore (4807 NE Fremont St) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s Book Author Addie Boswell will talk about her book “The Rain Stomper!” and lead kids in a craft activity. Coloring sheets and bookmarks will also be provided. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Hwy), 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. For more information, visit the event website.

• Happy Valley City Hall Open House: The City will host an open house for the public from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Staff will be providing tours of the new facility and light refreshments will be served. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, January 25

• Crystal Ballroom 95th Birthday Free-for-All: All four floors of Portland’s historic music venue will rock ‘n’ roll in exuberant celebration of the Crystal’s 95th birthday. Blitzen Trapper, Blue Giant, Greensky Bluegrass, Rock ‘n’ Roll Camp for Girls, and more. Doors open at 12:30 pm. All ages (except Lola’s and the Annex, which will be open to ages 21+). For more information and complete schedule of events, visit the event website.

• 10 Steps to Starting a Business: This seminar covers basic small business startup information in 10 steps. The presentation is designed for individuals in the thinking stage of starting a business. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Njuzu Mbira: Music of Zimbabwe: Enjoy the traditional dance music of the Shona people of Zimbabwe played on the mbira, an instrument played for at least 1,000 years. Usually two or more musicians play interlocking parts, creating a multitude of melodies and rhythms, and are accompanied by hosho (shakers). Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:30 pm–1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Jazz Stories 2009: Jazz Stories is a series of spoken word/live jazz narratives. In original stories accompanied by live jazz, writer Lynn Darroch, guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Rob Davis celebrate musicians such as Ray Charles, Phil Woods, Charles Lloyd, Betty Carter and Red Rodney. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm–4:00 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.

• “Eat, Drink, Man, Woman” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Children’s Book Author Addie Boswell will talk about her book “The Rain Stomper!” and lead kids in a craft activity. Coloring sheets and bookmarks will also be provided. Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• William Stafford Birthday Events: Three events today:

  • Poetry readings and presentations will be given by Jim Scheppke, Ellen Louise Hart, Holly Springfield, Don Colburn and Kirsten Rian. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Marie Buckley, Sue Einowski, Lucinda Huffine and Celeste Thompson will read Stafford poems. Birthday cake and light refreshments will be provided. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • David Benedicktus, Dennis Cole, Den Mark Wichar, and Sharon Wood Wortman will read. Vancouver Community Library (1007 East Mill Plain Blvd), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• 100 Poems by 100 Poets From the Past 100 Years: From Willamette Week: “Experimental writing haven and reading series Spare Room celebrates its 100th reading with a mondo poetry blowout that careens through a century of spoken history and subject matter. Poems will be read by Spare Room organizers and friends, from David Abel to Rodney Koeneke, plus ’sound poetry’ performances by Linda Austin and Lisa Radon, among others.” Gallery Homeland (2505 SE 11th Ave), 2:00 pm. All ages. For more information, click here.

• Art Tour of Portland’s Chinatown and Japantown (RSVP Required): Click here for more information.

• Kwan-Yin Healing Arts Open House: Kwan-Yin Healing Arts, a natural health clinic, is having an open house featuring free sample treatments and refreshments from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information on Kwan-Yin, visit www.kwanyinhealingarts.com.

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.

Add comment January 22nd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Jan 16–18

Admission is free for all events below.

Also, January 17 is the third Saturday of the month and the Oregon Historical Society’s discount day. However, admission is no longer totally free. Instead, two children will be admitted free per one paying adult. Click here for more information.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, January 16

• Kidical Mass is a chance for kids to ride bikes with their families and other kids in a big, safe, fun group. Rides are easy-going, legal, and governed by the slowest riders. In celebration of MLK weekend, families are encouraged to dress and decorate in the spirit of peace and diversity. It will be dark so do not forget to bring FRONT and REAR lights. For more information, contact Carl Larson at Bicycle Transportation Alliance. Rides:

  • Downtown Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at North Park Blocks playground (NW 8th and Couch), ride at 6:00 pm.
  • Northeast Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at Alberta Park (NE Killingsworth and 19th), ride at 6:00 pm.

  • Southeast Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at Sunnyside Park (SE 35th and Taylor), ride at 6:00 pm.

• “Battlestar Galactica” Final Season: Join KUFO’s Cort and Fatboy each Friday night from January 16 through March 10 to watch the final 10 episodes of “Battlestar Galactica.” Bagdad Theater (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd). Doors open at 9:30 pm; show at 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, contact the Bagdad Theater or KUFO.

• Reed Wallsmith (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Floating Glass Balls (website) will perform at LaurelThirst Public House (NE Glisan and 30th) from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Palatine Hill (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Loque Le Monde will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Destroy Nate Allen, Butterfly Bones and Purple Heart will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event 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.

• Lewi Longmire 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.

• Contributors Karen Karbo and Melanie Thernstrom present “The Secret Currency of Love,” an anthology of original essays that explores the fraught and powerful connection between two of the most driving forces in women’s lives: love and money. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, January 17

• J.R.R. Tolkien Birthday Celebration: This is an event for all ages featuring jugglers, live music, the entire “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, costume contest and more. Admission is free, except for the trilogy. To watch the movies, you must bring two canned goods for the Oregon Food Bank. Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave), 11:00 am ’til close. For a detailed schedule, visit the event website.

• Free Events at Portland Old-Time Music Gathering: On Saturday from noon to 5:00 pm, come to Norse Hall (111 NE 11th Ave) for kids’ activities, singing and dancing workshops, concerts, and more. On Sunday, the Mission Theater (1624 NW Glisan) will host a cabaret show at 1:30 pm (doors open at 1:00 pm). All ages are welcome to attend; minors with parent. The show will feature short performances. Some slots will be available for signup at Norse Hall on Saturday on a first come, first served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) Environmental Fair: The Miracle Theatre Group will host a bilingual (Spanish/English) environmental fair from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm at El Centro Milagro (525 SE Stark St). Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about local environmental organizations, including Verde, SOLV, Friends of Trees and Equal Exchange. For more information, contact the Miracle Theatre Group.

• Kidical Mass is a chance for kids to ride bikes with their families and other kids in a big, safe, fun group. Rides are easy-going, legal, and governed by the slowest riders. In celebration of MLK weekend, families are encouraged to dress and decorate in the spirit of peace and diversity. Today, there’s an Outer Northeast ride. Meet at 3:00 pm at Knott Park (NE 112th and Russell), ride at 3:15 pm. For more information, contact Carl Larson at Bicycle Transportation Alliance.

• Oregon Symphony Storytime: This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun musical crafts. 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. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am–noon. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mz. Pearl’s Variety Show is a solo clown show filled with physical comedy, juggling, magic, dance and word play. The audience is really involved in Mz. Pearl’s show—in their seats, as volunteers, and in a mini-workshop at the end. Most suitable for grades K–5. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 10:30 am–11:15 am, and noon–12:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Raven Steals the Sun” Children’s Puppet Show: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, this show tells how Raven the trickster brought light and warmth to the world. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave), 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Most appropriate for grades K–5. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”8-Bit Resolution” Benefit Concert: 8-Bit Resolution is a chiptune (old-school video game-style music) fest featuring The 486 Kid, Waxin’ Wary, Mos-8, and the easterislandhead. Visuals by VJ Cupcakes. Donations will be accepted at the door for Child’s Play, but are not required to get in. All ages. Chaos Cafe (2620 SE Powell Blvd), 8:00 pm, 503.546.8112.

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

• Lucky Tiger, Honus Huffhines, and The Welfare State will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Vivid Curve with James Faretheewell (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.

• William Stafford Birthday Events: Two events today. More information can be found here.

  • Ritz Kyoko Mori, Dorothy Stafford, and Pat Carver will read at 3:00 pm at Holy Names Heritage Center (17425 Holy Names Drive, Lake Oswego).

  • Emily Frey, Jane Glazer, Melanie Green, Diane Holland, Mike Langtry, Stephen Pearce, Suzanne Sigafoos, and Sulima Malzin will read at 7:00 pm at Eliot Chapel, First Unitarian Church (1011 SW 12th Ave).

• Author Kurt Nelson will discuss his book “Fighting for Paradise: A Military History of the Pacific Northwest” at Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Lisa Schroeder will talk about “Far from You,” her new young adult novel-in-verse, at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Bob Gaulke will talk about his new book, “Embrace Your Insignificance: Lessons Learned Teaching English in Japan” at Press Club at 8:00 pm. Bob will be joined by Chuck Thompson, another popular local travel writer. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

Sunday, January 18

• Washington County Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: Featuring the New Thought Choir, Beaverton Human Rights Essay Contest winner, presentation of the Everyday Hero Awards, Fusion Dancers, and keynote address by Alfonso Lopez-Vasquez, Assistant to the Provost on Diversity, and Assistant Professor of Education at Pacific University. The Kingstad Center (15450 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton), 4:00 pm. Hosted by the New Thought Center for Spiritual Living. Please bring warm coats and new socks (only) to donate to the 2009 Washington County Project Homeless Connect event happening on Wednesday, January 28th. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Events at Portland Old-Time Music Gathering: On Saturday from noon to 5:00 pm, come to Norse Hall (111 NE 11th Ave) for kids’ activities, singing and dancing workshops, concerts, and more. On Sunday, the Mission Theater (1624 NW Glisan) will host a cabaret show at 1:30 pm (doors open at 1:00 pm). All ages are welcome to attend; minors with parent. The show will feature short performances. Some slots will be available for signup at Norse Hall on Saturday on a first come, first served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Progression: 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.

• Jazz Stories 2009: Jazz Stories is a series of spoken word/live jazz narratives. In original stories accompanied by live jazz, writer Lynn Darroch, guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Rob Davis celebrate musicians such as Ray Charles, Phil Woods, Charles Lloyd, Betty Carter and Red Rodney. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Sonny Hess and Lisa Mann will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Like Water for Chocolate” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Screening of Benjamin Bagby’s “Beowulf”: See a special screening of Benjamin Bagby’s legendary performance of the Anglo-Saxon epic “Beowulf” recorded live in Helsingborg, Sweden. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” will be showing at Tigard Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd, Tigard) at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets John Witte and Ana Callan will talk about their respective books at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Cristy Road, Rhiannon Argo and Nicole Georges will talk about their respective books at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

• Native American artist Lillian Pitt will give a slideshow presentation and talk about the historical background related to her art. She has chosen to work in clay using Asian techniques like raku and anagama, to work in bronze or precious metals, to incorporate wood, copper, glass, shell, leather, feathers, and a wide variety of materials, and to mix media and technologies from around the globe. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Winter Palm Tree Bike Ride: Come along for a bicycle ride passing by the multitude of palm trees and other tropical and evergreen vegetation growing in the city. This ride will be a bit different than the ones we have done in the past, we’re going to explore some different areas. Ride should last about four hours or so, with plenty of stops and maybe a refreshment break. Meet at 11:00 am at Seven Virtues Coffeehouse (5936 NE Glisan St). THE IMPORTANT DETAILS: Ride not a loop. Rain or shine! (We haven’t canceled one yet, and don’t intend to!) And wear shorts! 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.

Add comment January 15th, 2009

Download Suze Orman’s Latest Book Free (Expires 1/15)

Personal finance expert Suze Orman has a new book, “Suze Orman’s 2009 Action Plan: Keeping Your Money Safe & Sound,” and you can download it for free from Oprah.com. English and Spanish versions are available. The offer ends on January 15.

Amazon.com describes the book as follows:

The credit crunch, the stock market freefall, the staggering toll of home foreclosures and job losses: The economic crisis that struck in 2008 has left no one untouched and everybody reeling. Seemingly overnight, the financial landscape has undergone seismic changes that suddenly have you asking all kinds of questions: Are your savings safe? Should you continue to invest in your retirement account? Should you keep your home if it’s worth less than what you owe or should you sell it? How do you pay your bills if you’ve just been laid off?

The nation’s go-to expert on financial matters, Suze Orman, believes that 2009 is a critical year for your money. There are safeguards to put in place, actions to take, costly mistakes to avoid, and even opportunities to be had, so that you are protected during the bad times and prepared to prosper when things take a turn for the better. No matter what situation you’re in, you will find a plan of action and the answers to your questions about:

* Credit
* Retirement
* Savings and Spending
* Real Estate
* Paying for College
* Protecting Your Family

SUZE ORMAN’S 2009 ACTION PLAN delivers honest, straightforward guidance—what to do, when to do it, and how to do it—as only Suze Orman can.

Download your free copy here.

If you’re like me and missed Suze’s appearance on Oprah yesterday, you can read about it here.

Add comment January 9th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Jan 9–11

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

Friday, January 9

• Art Opening at Launch Pad Gallery: The gallery presents “Apples,” a multimedia group show about collaboration, interconnectedness and friendship. The show features 2-D work, film and music by thirteen artists and two bands. Live music by Kaitlyn ni Donovan (9:00 pm) and Point Juncture, WA  (10:00 pm). All ages. 534 SE Oak St, 6:00 pm to 12:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Art Opening at The 100th Monkey Studio: This month’s show is called “Consumerism” featuring artwork by 10 artists. Live music by Kotogoto. All ages. 110 SE 16th Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Learn How to Start a Blog: On Friday and Saturday, a group of local bloggers called Beer & Blog  will host workshops on how to start a blog. Much of the time will be devoted to helping people one on one, so bring your laptop if you’ve got one. Friday’s session will focus on how to get a hosting account and domain name. The session will take place at Green Dragon Bistro & Brewpub (928 SE 9th Ave) from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For more information, click here. On Saturday, a series of workshops will be held at CubeSpace from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm and will focus on installing your blog, customizing it, etc. For more information, click here.

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

• Joe McMurrian Quartet (website) will perform at LaurelThirst Public House from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. NE Glisan and 30th. For more information, visit the event website.

• Kirk Duncan & the Localized Juice Embargo (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Steve Cheseborough, Mackintosh Braun, Brian Rozendal, and The Goodwill River will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Jim the Bad Goat (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 Philip Niles will talk about his book “Beauty of the City,” a biography of Albert E. Doyle, at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, January 10

• Fix-It Fair: The fair includes workshops on a variety of topics including money-saving tips, home care, health and safety. Free professional child care will be available, and giveaways will be going on all day. Parkrose High School (12003 NE Shaver St), 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website (be sure to click the links on the right side of the page).

• Slavic New Year Celebration: Celebrate the new year with Russian music, dancing, crafts and treats. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), noon–5:00 pm. For a schedule of activities, visit the event website.

• Learn How to Start a Blog: On Friday and Saturday, a group of local bloggers called Beer & Blog  will host workshops on how to start a blog. Much of the time will be devoted to helping people one on one, so bring your laptop if you’ve got one. Friday’s session will focus on how to get a hosting account and domain name. The session will take place at Green Dragon Bistro & Brewpub (928 SE 9th Ave) from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For more information, click here. On Saturday, a series of workshops will be held at CubeSpace from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm and will focus on installing your blog, customizing it, etc. For more information, click here.

• Oregon Symphony Storytime: This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun musical crafts. 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. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am–noon. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mz. Pearl’s Variety Show is a solo clown show filled with physical comedy, juggling, magic, dance and word play. The audience is really involved in Mz. Pearl’s show—in their seats, as volunteers, and in a mini-workshop at the end. Most suitable for grades K–5. Rockwood Library (17917 SE Stark St), 2:00 pm–2:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Second Saturday at Vancouver Water Center: Each second Saturday of the month, kids and their families are invited to explore a different topic through hands-on activities, games and stories. This month: Discover how a snowshoe hare, Canada goose and western toad adjust to winter. Make a winter animal paper weight. Weave a hot pad from fur-like yarn to experience the heavy coat some animals have to survive cold winter weather. 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Belinda Underwood will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

• Tim Connell’s Brazillian Mandolin Duo will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Little Sue Band (website) will perform at LaurelThirst Public House from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. NE Glisan and 30th. For more information, visit the event website.

• Hit Me Baby, Attack Ships On Fire, Muddy River Nightmare Band, and Keel Over will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Walsh Shuttle Pipes Performance: Cedar Mill resident Matt Rucker will play Scottish and Irish tunes on the Walsh Shuttle Pipes. These bellows blown pipes are similar in style and shape to pipes dating back to 1695 and are ideal for intimate performances where the Highland pipes would prove too overpowering. Cedar Mill Community Library (12505 NW Cornell Rd), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• 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.

• 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 “Cones, Cones, Cones.” 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.

• Author Michele Ulrickson will read from her memoir “Reform at Victory” at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 B NE Killingsworth St) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• William Stafford Birthday Event: This event features readings by Judith Barrington, Marlene Hill, Susanna Lundgren, Helen McNaughton, Heidi Pullen, Ron Rasch, Susan McKee Reese, and Paulann Petersen. Milwaukie Ledding Library, Pond House (2215 SE Harrison, Milwaukie), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. More information can be found here.

• Sketchcrawl: To celebrate the 21st Worldwide Sketchcrawl, Portlanders will gather at 10:00 am to sketch what they see and enjoy the challenge of drawing new things. The group will meet at Pioneer Place mall downtown by the ground-floor Starbucks. Look for folks with sketchbooks, sketching! For more information, contact the Portland Sketchcrawl group. 

Sunday, January 11

• Jazz Stories 2009: Jazz Stories is a series of spoken word/live jazz narratives. In original stories accompanied by live jazz, writer Lynn Darroch, guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Rob Davis celebrate musicians such as Ray Charles, Phil Woods, Charles Lloyd, Betty Carter and Red Rodney. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Epiphany Choir Fest: Several local church choirs will perform holiday carols at Gethsemane Lutheran Church (11560 SE Market) at 3:00 pm. The concert is free to the public, and refreshments and child care will be available. A goodwill offering for Daybreak Shelter Network will be accepted at intermission. Daybreak Shelter Network is a shelter and housing placement program for homeless families. For more information, visit the event website.

• Classical Music Performance—Violin and Flute: Violinist George Shiolas and flutist Abby Mages will present a program of classical selections from Bach, Vivaldi, Bartok and others. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “The Flight and The Fall”: “The Flight and the Fall” is a podcast by Abraham Ingle in which he records locals talking about their neighborhoods. This debut of the second episode of the series will include live voice-overs, as well as guitar and keyboard accompaniment. Prior to that, Root Beer and French Fry and The Wedding Singers will perform. Valentine’s (232 SW Ankeny St), 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Music at LaurelThirst Public House: Freak Mountain Ramblers will perform at 6:00 pm. Billy Kennedy and Tim Acott will perform at 9:00 pm. NE Glisan and 30th. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• “Big Night ” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Oregon Poets, Oregon History: Oregon Poet Laureate Lawson Inada and William Stafford archivist Paul Merchant will read at this free literary event. The event will commemorate William Stafford’s life as a conscientious objector as well as the WWII internment experiences of the Yasui family relayed in “Stubborn Twig,” by Lauren Kessler, the book chosen for Oregon Reads 2009. Beaverton Library (12375 SW 5th Street, Beaverton), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Arlene Sachitano will talk about her book “Quilter’s Knot” at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author and filmmaker Faythe Levine will talk about her book “Handmade Nation: The Rise of DIY, Art, Craft, and Design” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. Joining Levine will be contributing writer, Susan Beal; featured artist, Jill Bliss; and the illustrator for the book, Kate Bingaman-Burt. For more information, visit the event website.

• Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning Workshop: Learn the basics of wills, living trusts, powers of attorney and healthcare directives with attorney and author Richard Schneider. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave), 2:00 pm to 3:30 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.

4 comments January 8th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Dec 26–28

Admission is free for all events below. Please contact appropriate event organizers or venues for weather-related cancellations. Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Peacock Lane: The lights will be on from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm each day. Peacock Lane is between SE Stark St and SE Belmont St and one block east of SE 39th. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, December 26

• John Vecchiarelli will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• John Bunzow (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Beth Willis & Todd C. (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

Saturday, December 27

• Kwanzaa Celebration: Learn more about the meaning of Kwanzaa and share your stories: ones you’ve heard, ones you’ve made up, ones passed down from your family. Featuring fabric art by renowned artist Adriene Cruz. Light refreshments will be served. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Winter Craft Time at Beaverton Library: Winter Craft Time is for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. You can drop by any time between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm and create something fun to take home. 12375 SW 5th St. For more information, visit the event website.

• Blair St. Mugwumps (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Miss Michael Jodell, Matt Brown & Co. (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• J*Malem (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Reina Collins & The Saloonatics (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• “Kung Fu Panda” will be showing at Camas Library (625 NE 4th Ave) at 3:00 pm. Popcorn served. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, December 28

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

• Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “A Christmas Story” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• “Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas” will be showing at Tigard Library (13125 SW Hall Blvd) at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author John Galligan will talk about his book “The Clinch Knot” at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) 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.

Add comment December 25th, 2008

Local Bookstores in Financial Trouble

Affected by the current economy, two bookstores listed on our Free Events page are facing the possibility of closure. These bookstores are:

In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (the last nonprofit feminist bookstore in the US)
8 B NE Killingsworth St
Portland, OR 97211

Twenty-Third Avenue Books
1015 NW 23rd Avenue
Portland, OR 97210

All hope is not lost, however. Both stores can still be saved. These stores are not just places to buy books; they’re gathering places that bring authors into our community and host other educational and cultural events year round.

Please consider helping out by donating or simply spreading the word.

For more information, read the “Dear friends” letter on the home page of each store:

• In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources
• Twenty-Third Avenue Books

2 comments December 16th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Dec 5–7

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Holiday Ale Festival in Pioneer Courthouse Square: Admission is free; the beer is not. Free rootbeer for designated drivers. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Festival of Nativities in Vancouver: Display of more than 600 nativity scenes from around the world, artwork, live music, and children’s activities. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (10509 SE 5th St, Vancouver), noon to 9:00 pm. Live nativity performance on Saturday at 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, December 5

• Holiday Celebration in Multnomah Village: The Village tree will be lit at 6:42 pm. All evening, carolers, Santa and local merchants will spread Christmas cheer. For more information, visit the Multnomah Village website.

• Tree Lighting Celebration in Beaverton: Children’s crafts, tree lighting, music, Santa and more. Beaverton Round Fountain Plaza (12600 SW Crescent St, adjacent to the Beaverton Central MAX Station), 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Holiday Celebration in Tualatin: Tree lighting, arts and crafts for the kids, Santa, treats, and more. Tualatin Commons (8325 SW Nyberg St), 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tree Lighting Celebration in Camas: Tree lighting, caroling, Santa, refreshments, kids’ activities and more. Downtown Camas, 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the Camas website or download this flyer.

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

• Repeal Day Celebration: Dewar’s Scotch Whisky and McMenamins celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Repeal of Prohibition with a free show featuring Langhorne Slim, Fogatron, flappers, fire dancers and more. Bagdad Theater (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd). Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show starts at 7:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• First Friday Art Shows and Openings:

  • The Big 100: One night only—100 artists. 10 works a piece. 1,000 pieces of art. Olympic Mills Commerce Center (107 SE Washington). 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • First Friday East Portland Gallery Art Walk: Several galleries on the East side open their doors to the public from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on the first Friday of each month. Go to this website for the list of galleries. In addition to those, Bowl of Thistles and Tilde will also host artist receptions.

  • The 100th Monkey Studio (110 SE 16th Ave): Two art shows featuring 10 artists, as well as pieces by the Zimbabwe Artist Project. Live music and treats. Also showing: “Painted Positive,” a movie by Terry Haines. All ages welcome. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Destroy Store (1712 E. Burnside St): reception for artists Steve Mathews, Charlie Kraft and Chris Haberman. Beer compliments of Widmer. Beats courtesy of Infamous 1. 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Press Club: reception for artist Dan Kohler, 7:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Q Center (69 SE Taylor Ave): reception for artists Paul Francis Fukui and Paul Soriano. 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Also, go to PORT for more events.

• Holiday Train Event: Staver Locomotive (2537 NW 29th Ave) invites all to see their display of model steam locomotives. If you wish, you can bring a donation of cash, TriMet tickets or gift cards for Friendly House. 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website

• Strangled Darlings (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 8:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

• Greg Clarke (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Chickweed (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Contributing writers of “Hunger and Thirst: Food Literature” will speak at Looking Glass Bookstore (7983 SE 13th Ave) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, December 6

• Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising in Camas starting at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lighting of Maddax Woods in West Linn: Enjoy a magical walk down a lit, accessible path through the Woods and to the viewing platform on the Willamette River. Free hot chocolate. 5785 River Street, West Linn, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Caroling Parade and Tree Lighting in Hillsboro: Meet at 4:45 pm at the Glenn and Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center (527 E. Main St) and carol your way to the Civic Center. Stay for the Mayor’s Tree Lighting on the Civic Center Plaza and more caroling at 5:15 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tree Lighting Festivities in Tigard: Join friends and neighbors in downtown Tigard at 5:30 pm for a holiday tree lighting event. Santa will arrive at Liberty Park at the corner of 99W and Main Street to light the tree around 6:00 pm. Visits with Santa, hot cocoa and cookies, music from Radio Disney, and more. For more information, visit the event website.

• Milwaukie Umbrella Parade & Tree Lighting: Decorate an umbrella and join the parade starting at the Waldorf School parking lot at 4:15 pm (21st and Monroe). Milwaukie High School Marching Band will lead the procession up Main Street and back to City Hall (10722 SE Main St) where the festivities will be capped with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa, and treats at 5:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Holiday Tree Lighting & Community Celebration in West Linn: Music, treats, holiday cookie decorating, a visit with Santa, sing-a-longs, and more. Central Village (21900 Willamette Dr), 5:30 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, visit event website

• Winter Festival in Sherwood: Parade begins at 4:00 in old town Sherwood. Tree lighting at 5:00 pm. Other activities during the day. For more information, visit this blog or the Sherwood website. 

• Holiday Eats ‘n Treats: Q Center invites the LGBTQ community and allies to enjoy free breakfast, holiday film clips, and ornament-making from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. 69 SE Taylor Ave. For more information, visit the event website.

• Season of Lights Concert: Peter Zisa and other prominent Portland musicians will perform Chanukah and Christmas music. While there is no charge for the event, guests will have an opportunity to support community charitable organizations benefiting children. Old Church (SW 11th and Clay), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lincoln Crockett and Jim McKeon (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

• Brady Goss (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

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

• Woodstock Library 100th Birthday Party: The celebration includes cake, music with guitarist Ronnie Robins, and fun. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 4:00 pm to 5:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Penny’s Puppet Productions will treat families to a spinoff of “The Mitten,” a traditional Ukrainian tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 10:30 am–11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s book author Addie Boswell will talk about her book “The Rain Stomper!” at Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave) at 11:00 am. Kids will receive coloring sheets and bookmarks, as well as learn how to make a baton that they can twirl like Jazmin does in the book. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, December 7

• Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration in Happy Valley: Musical entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, refreshments, Santa, and more. Happy Valley City Hall (16000 SE Misty Dr), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Authors Ursula Le Guin, Judy Jewell, Maura Conlon-McIvor and George Byron Wright will be chatting and signing books at Twenty-Third Avenue Books (1015 NW 23rd Ave) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author J. A. Jance will talk about her book “Cruel Intent” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website. She will also be speaking at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the MBTB website.

• “Mystery Train” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Sunday Cinema Classics at St. Johns Library: “Meet Me in St. Louis” will be showing at 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program, at 1:30 pm. 7510 N. Charleston Ave. For more information, visit the event website.

• Morgan Spurlock’s “What Would Jesus Buy?” will be showing at 6:30 pm at Moreland Bible Church (1648 SE Ellis). A community potluck will begin at 5:30 pm before the movie. For more information, visit the event website

• Sonny Hess and Lisa Mann will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Irish Dance Show at Hillsboro Main Library: Maldon Meehan and her talented musicians and dancers will perform original choreography of Irish dance, modern dance, sean-nos dance, Cape Breton step dance, and American cloggin. Appropriate for all ages. Light refreshments will be served. 2:00 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.

4 comments December 5th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Nov 14–16

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

Friday, November 14

• Christmas Tree Arrival at Pioneer Courthouse Square: At noon, a party will be held at Pioneer Courthouse Square to welcome Portland’s 75-foot Christmas tree. Expect Santa Claus, seasonal music and local dignitaries. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lower Fremont 2nd Friday Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters will display and sell their work outside at this monthly event. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 5:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• Rock Poster Art Show Opening Reception: Artery will open an exhibit of silkscreened rock posters commemorating some of the most influential bands in the past two decades such as Modest Mouse, Bloc Party, Neko Case, Bright Eyes, Cat Power and more. 4114 N. Vancouver Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• Army Navy (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

• Adam and Kris (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

• Will West and The Friendly Strangers (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

• The Checkered Present (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

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

Saturday, November 15

• Gettysburg Address Re-enactment, Talk, Film: From 9:00 am to 11:30 am, Lone Fir Pioneer Cemetery (SE 21st and Morrison) will host a re-creation of the Gettysburg Address, including Union soldier re-enactors in full battle gear, authentic military band, Lincoln presenter Steve Holgate, and more. From 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Portland State professor Elliott Trommald will explain the meaning of the Gettysburg Address, and a “Battle of Gettysburg” video will be shown at PSU Smith Memorial Student Union, room 333 (1825 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website. 

• Oregon Humane Society 140th Birthday Bash: The party includes activities for kids, tours and more. Kids will receive a t-shirt, balloon, and a birthday sticker while supplies last. Presents for the animals are welcome and qualify you to receive a discount on adoptions (see website for details). 1067 NE Columbia Blvd, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. Cake and ice cream will be served from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• J.D. Roth, author of the blog Get Rich Slowly, will speak at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• BroadArts Theatre Performance and Discussion: Four speakers from the community will talk about issues concerning Portland, supported by songs and monologues performed by BroadArts Theatre. Afterward, BroadArts will invite the audience to discuss how each of us can contribute to a better future for Portland and our world. Jefferson High School (5210 N. Kerby Ave), 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information and list of speakers, visit the event website.

• Lighting of Maddax Woods in West Linn: Enjoy a magical walk down a lit, accessible path through the Woods and to the viewing platform on the Willamette River. Free hot chocolate. 5785 River Street, West Linn, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bird Walk on Boeckman Road at Coffee Lake Wetlands: The new Boeckman Road extension is an ideal location to view birds such as great blue heron, red-winged black bird, osprey, killdeer and more. Meet Natural Resources Program staff on the bridge (Boeckman Road at Coffee Creek between 95th Ave and 110th Ave, Wilsonville) at 9:00 am. The walk lasts until 11:00 am. Bring your binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather. Kids welcome. For more information, visit the event website. 

• ”Gourdy Pumpernickel’s Harvest Surprise” Puppet Show: Mudeye Puppet Company presents this all-new, all-original, all-ages puppet show about a determined but slightly silly farmer who never gives up. Most suitable for grades K–5. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 10:30 am–11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s Play “Raven Steals the Sun”: In honor of national American Indian Heritage month, the library is hosting “Raven Steals the Sun,” a new play based on a Native American tale. Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre. Most suitable for grades K–5. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• OMSI’s Teen-Only Night: No parents allowed! OMSI invites teens (ages 13–18) to check out Mindbender Mansion and enjoy music by a live DJ, Segway rides and more. 1945 SE Water Ave, 7:00 pm–10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• Mary Flower (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

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

• Lincoln Crockett (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• The Atonements (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Authors Jessica Morrell, Megan Clark, Delilah Marvelle and Monica Drake will speak at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 NE Killingsworth St) at 4:00 pm. Refreshments and accompaniment music from Vagabond Opera’s Eric Stern. For more information, visit the event website. 

Sunday, November 16

• Locks of Love Benefit (Free Haircuts): Ruby’s Spa at Edgefield will offer free haircuts to guests of all ages who donate 10 or more inches of hair. These special guests will also receive complimentary refreshments, along with 20% off additional spa treatments for the rest of the day. 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Appointments are required. Call (503) 665-1357 to make an appointment. For more information, visit the event website. 

• DIY Stories: DIY (Do It Yourself) Stories is an open storytelling forum. Share stories about what brought you to Oregon and what keeps you here. You can just show up to listen to others, but it’s more fun when you participate. Please keep stories to 5 minutes; no reading or performing; think “beginning, middle, end.” Recommended for adults. Space is limited. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• James Low (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• “Freedomstate” will be playing at Hotel deLuxe. The Screening Room, located off the hotel lobby, opens at 6:00 pm; the movie begins at 6:30 pm. RSVP to 503.219.2093. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Being John Malkovich” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Alicia Paulson, the creator of the blog Posie Gets Cozy, will talk about her book “Stitched in Time” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s 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 November 14th, 2008