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

12/24: Free Coffee and Tea at Peet’s Today

On December 24, Peet’s Coffee will be giving away complimentary cups of brewed coffee and tea.

In addition to passing out drinks, Peet’s employees will give people the opportunity to donate to a local charity. Each store has chosen a different charity, and Peet’s will match up to $1,000 in donations per store. Participating locations in the Portland Metro area, and the charities they have chosen, are:

Oregon locations:
NE Broadway (1441 NE Broadway): Street Roots
Downtown Portland (508 SW Broadway): Cascadia Health Center
Hawthorne (3646 SE Hawthorne Blvd): Alternative Services Oregon, Inc.
Brewery Blocks (1114 NW Couch St): Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon
Lake Oswego (345 First St, Ste #111): Children’s Center of Clackamas County
Happy Valley (15918 SE Happy Valley Town Cnt): Multiple Sclerosis Society of Portland
Hillsboro (19250 NW Cornell Rd): Hillsboro Fire Fighters Random Acts
Bridgeport Village (Building G, 7471 SW Bridgeport Rd): Sexual Abuse Resource Center (SARC)

Vancouver locations:
Vancouver (16501 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Suite 100): John Kyle Daggett Memorial Foundation
Salmon Creek (13307 NE Hwy 99, Suite 115): Mentors of Boys

More information on the charity drive can be found here.

Store details can be found here.

Thanks Frugal Living Online for the heads up!

Photo by Burnt Phrases

2 comments December 23rd, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Dec 19–21

See comments for updates.

Admission is free for all events below. If the crazy weather continues, please contact appropriate event organizers or venues for last-minute cancellations. Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers each evening. For more information, visit the event website. On December 20, the City of Lake Oswego plans to host a watch party at Foothills Park (link).

• 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 19

• Fifteenth Annual Sing-Along Messiah: The Sing-Along is truly a sing-along. You, the audience, will sing all of the Messiah Choruses, some of which are seldom sung. Children are encouraged to attend. You do not have to sing—or even want to sing—to attend. Central Lutheran Church (1820 NE 21st Ave), 8:00 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Seating is on a first-come first-served basis, and it fills up fast. For more information, visit the event website.

• Northwest Professional Dance Project: The dancers will perform some of the best works from NWPDP’s 2008 season as well as new dances from NWPDP’s Artistic Director, Sarah Slipper. December 19 and 20, 6:00 pm, in the rotunda lobby of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts (1111 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Local Celtic harpists Jennifer Pratt-Walter and Valerie Blessley will perform at 7:00 pm at Cedar Mill Community Library (12505 NW Cornell Rd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Sonny Hess Trio (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.

• Friday Family Flick in Hillsboro: “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” will be showing at Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy) at 6:30 pm. Popcorn and movie snacks provided. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, December 20

• Oregon History Museum Free Day: Admission is free on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, visit the museum website.

• Northwest Professional Dance Project: The dancers will perform some of the best works from NWPDP’s 2008 season as well as new dances from NWPDP’s Artistic Director, Sarah Slipper. December 19 and 20, 6:00 pm, in the rotunda lobby of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts (1111 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Horse Carriage Rides in Sellwood and Westmoreland: In Sellwood, the route will be along 13th Avenue and in Westmoreland along Milwaukie Avenue. Just stand at any bus stop on these routes marked with the Decemberville poster for a chance at a ride. For more information, visit the event website.

• Kaitlyn ni Donovan (website) will be perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

• Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• X-Angels (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.

• Qi Gong is the study of the body’s energy to improve mental and physical health. Come learn the breathing techniques of Qi Gong. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm–3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Film Discussion With Curt Ellis on “The Greening of Southie”: Local film producer/director Curt Ellis (”King Corn”) will talk about his and Ian Cheney’s new film, “The Greening of Southie.” The film tells the story of Boston’s first residential “green” building, through the eyes of the steel-toed construction crew that sets out to build it. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Winter Movie Weekend at Beaverton Library: Saturday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Sunday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” All ages. Beaverton City Library Auditorium (12375 SW Fifth), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, December 21

• Caroling on the Commons in Tualatin: Join the Tualatin Valley Community Band for an evening of traditional Christmas caroling on the Lake of the Commons in Tualatin. The band will provide musical accompaniment, while local sponsors will provide cookies, cocoa, cider and coffee. Patio between Ben Lake building and Hayden’s Lakefront Grill, 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Morton’s Steakhouse is giving away free mini-cheeseburgers from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, according to Willamette Week. The deal celebrates the opening of Morton’s first restaurant 30 years ago. 213 SW Clay Street. Contact information can be found at Morton’s website.

• “The Flight and the Fall,” Root Beer and French Fry: Artist Abraham Ingle’s new radio show, “The Flight and the Fall” is Portland’s version of NPR’s “This American Life.” From Willamette Week: ”Ingle’s calm, to-the-point language gives the program a familiar rhythm, and his exploration of Portlanders’ narratives mirrors TAL’s insightful flavor. Fabulous foursome Root Beer and French Fry will accompany the episode’s live debut.” Valentine’s (232 SW Ankeny St), 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Valentine’s website.

• Holiday Guitar Music: Jeffrey Ashton presents a seasonal program of guitar music, featuring Renaissance and Baroque selections, as well as standards and carols. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Holiday Sing-Along in Hillsboro: Bring the whole family to sing holiday songs with musical accompaniment by local band Runway 3. Lyric sheets will be provided. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Winter Solstice Family Event in Tualatin: Crafts, food and music. Something for every age. Tualatin Public Library (18878 SW Martinazzi), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Toys in the Hood Concert: Tragedy, Cool Nutz, and others will perform at Roseland Grill (8 NW Sixth Ave) at 7:00 pm. Admission is free with donation of two toys for the Salvation Army. All ages. For more information, click here.

• Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

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

• Winter Movie Weekend at Beaverton Library: Saturday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Sunday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” All ages. Beaverton City Library Auditorium (12375 SW Fifth), 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.

1 comment December 18th, 2008

12/17: Local Blog Donating $1 to Charity for Each Visitor

Here’s a really easy way to help the Oregon Food Bank: Visit Jack Bog’s blog today (December 17). That’s it. Just visit. For every person who visits today, $1 will be donated to OFB.

From Jack’s blog:

Thanks for coming to this blog on our sixth annual Buck-a-Hit Day. Just by visiting here today, you have caused the bojack.org Gift-Giving Team to give $1 to the Oregon Food Bank. One of our readers, Mr. Fearless, has pledged to keep donating a buck to the OFB for every visit to this blog today — through 5,000 unique visits.

If you like, you can do more.

You can write a comment. The person who writes the best comment will get to decide which charity should get $250.

You can donate. Jack is collecting donations for five local charities, and each dollar donated (up to $2,100 total) will be matched by special friends of the blog.

But you don’t need to donate or even leave a comment. You can help by just visiting: link.

Add comment December 17th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Dec 12–14

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

All weekend

• Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers each evening. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, December 12

• Annual Winter Solstice in Milwaukie: Come warm by the bonfire and watch the Christmas Ship Parade cruise the Willamette River at the Jefferson Street Boat Ramp at Milwaukie’s Riverfront Park. The ships are scheduled to come by around 7:00 pm, and the Dickens Carolers will perform from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. All ages are encouraged to attend. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 4:00 pm–9:00 pm. Find more information here.

• Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pink Slip Holiday Office Party: Holocene is hosting a party featuring DJ Hoop Dreams, Dr. Rev. Adam, and Freaky Outy behind the decks. 1001 SE Morrison, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Pete Krebs Trio (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• ‘Couv Fest Concert: Aleen, Silversafe, Throwback Suburbia and The Reds will perform. All ages. Westfield Vancouver Mall (8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr), 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• The Naysayers (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 13

• Tuba Christmas: Nearly 200 tuba players will converge on Pioneer Courthouse Square and treat the public to a festive holiday concert. Audience members are encouraged to sing along to familiar carols. 1:30 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mortgage and Foreclosure Summit: The event offers workshops on how to avoid foreclosure and lending scams, as well as an opportunity for attendees to share their stories, network with legislators, and access civic and state agencies. 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at PCC Southeast Center at 82nd and Division. More information can be found here.

• Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 11:00 am–4:00 pm. Find more information here.

• Kanawaksooma Celebration (Quiet Thunder): This event offers authentic music, dance, crafts, food, and entertainment for the whole family. Activities for children include dancing, face painting, and craft tables. Mt. Hood Community College (26000 SE Stark St, Gresham), noon to 10:00 pm. A free salmon and buffalo feed including a native blessing will begin at 5:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• West Linn Holiday Parade: The parade starts at 10:00 am and runs along Willamette Falls Drive in the historic Willamette area. After the parade, stop by the Firte Station to donate a new unwrapped toy for TVF&R Toy & Joy Program, visit with Santa, stay for a horse-drawn carriage ride and visit all the local shops for discounts. For more information, visit the event website.

• Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s Play “Raven Steals the Sun”: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, based on a Native American tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Most suitable for grades K–5. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Highway), 11:00 am–11:30 am. 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. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm–3:45 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• Second Saturday at the Water Center in Vancouver: Families are invited to participate in craft activities: decorate a frame, make snowflakes from coffee filters, and transform last year’s calendar into beads and gift boxes. 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lisa Stringfield and Lara Michelle (website) will be perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

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

• The Chapman Swifts (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.

• “Private Space” Live Video Performance and Interactive Installation: Attendees will create and experience visual jazz. Other exhibits include a multi-touch table, a body painting session and a light display titled Exhibit 2. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, December 14

• Peacock Lane Car-Free Night: The street will be closed to allow foot and bike traffic only from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Information can be found at OregonLive and the Peacock Lane website. (see comments for this post)

• Posada Milagro: Miracle Theatre Group invites the whole family to enjoy the Posada Milagro, a holiday celebration filled with Latin American theatre, music, dance, arts and crafts workshops, traditional foods, and more. All activities will be conducted in Spanish. El Centro Milagro (525 SE Stark St), 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gresham Community Choir Holiday Concert: The concert features a variety of holiday music. Last year over 600 lbs of food for the hungry was collected. This year, the choir’s goal is 1000 lbs. Reynolds District Arts and Communication Center (1698 SW Cherry Park Road, Troutdale), 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “The King of Comedy” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Murder by the Book Open House: Appearances by local authors Carola Dunn, Larry Karp, and Kate Kingsbury, with special guest appearances by Chelsea Cain, Bill Cameron, Phil Margolin, and Sharan Newman. Snacks too. 3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd, noon to 4:00 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 12th, 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.

3 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

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: October 31–November 2

Updated: Check the comments for updates.

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

Friday, October 31

• Halloween events: View the list here. And be sure to check the comments for updates.

Saturday, November 1

• Day of the Dead Procession and Altar Build: Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave) will host a series of activities in honor of the Day of the Dead, including a sugar skull decorating session, community altar build, procession through the Pearl and Old Town, movies and more. 3:00 pm–7:00 pm. Visit the Someday Lounge website for all the details.

• Day of the Dead Celebration hosted by the Portland Early Learning Project: This event includes storytelling, crafts, singing, traditional Mexican music and more. Urban Grind Coffeehouse (2214 NE Oregon), 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Day of the Dead Celebration at Capitol Hill Library: Celebrate the Day of the Dead with skeletons, crafts and more. 10723 SW Capitol Hwy, 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Hawaiian Holiday Bazaar in Vancouver: This event includes Hawaiian and ethnic foods, hula from Oregon and Washington area halau, Hawaiian music, and arts and crafts on sale from local artisans and distributors. Jefferson Middle School, 3000 NW 119th St, Vancouver, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• GreenWalks: Explore Hoyt Arboretum with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Meet at the Visitor Center at 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. For details, visit the PP&R website.

• Wilsonville-Kitakata Celebration: Wilsonville is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its sister-city relationship with Kitakata, Japan, with a ceremony and reception at City Hall at 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

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

• Gideon Freudmann (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Dry County Crooks (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• “The Paley’s Place Cookbook”: Chef Vitaly Paley will talk about “The Paley’s Place Cookbook” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

• Children’s book author David Michael Slater will read “Cheese Louise” and help kids do some writing of their own at the Tigard Library at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, November 2

• Day of the Dead Celebration: Gumbo Gifts and Gallery (3636 N. Mississippi) invites the community to bring photographs, candles, and other items of commemoration to place on a public altar to celebrate the lives of those who have passed. Activities also include making papel picado (“cut paper”) and offerings of pan de muerto, a sweet bread made just for the event. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Opera Preview: This lecture/concert will cover historical background, composer information and musical selections from “Fidelio.” Central Library, 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Groundation will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:30 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

• Ben Darwish (website) will perform at Someday Lounge at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Someday Lounge website.

• Greg Clarke will perform old-time and bluegrass music at the Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Jon Koonce (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Southwest Washington Wind Symphony: The SW Washington Wind Symphony opens its fourth season by showcasing band classics from the early 20th century and the “blues” at the Mountain View High School Auditorium (1500 SE Blairmont Drive, Vancouver) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

• Sunday Cinema Classics at St. Johns Library: “On Moonlight Bay” will be showing at 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. For more information, visit the event website. 

• “The Devil’s Backbone” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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 October 31st, 2008

Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s (4/29), 31-Cent Scoop Night at Baskin-Robbins (4/30)

Next week, there’ll be back-to-back events that will satisfy your sweet tooth without rotting your wallet:

April 29 is Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s stores. Stop in and get a free ice cream cone to celebrate Ben & Jerry’s 30th birthday. Check the Ben & Jerry’s website for participating locations.

On April 30, Baskin-Robbins will be selling small ice cream scoops for 31 cents between 5:00 pm and 10:00 pm. The event will raise money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Check the Baskin-Robbins website for locations.

Thanks to reader Kate for alerting us to this report on ReadySetMom.

Add comment April 25th, 2008

A Couple More Frugal Events Happening in Portland, April 19

In addition to the free events, I wanted to mention two other things going on in Portland on April 19. Both are frugal and help the greater good.

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Eat Mobile: Food Cart Festival
April 19
On Air, 1300 N. River Street off the Albina Max Stop
5:30 pm–9:30 pm
All Ages

For $5.00, you can sample cuisine from 11 local food carts: Altengartz Bratwurst, Asian Station Cafe, Biggs Bros Wings, Hacienda CDC (homemade tamales), India Chaat House, Junior Ambassador, Julia’s Mobile Cafe (Russian food), Moxie RX, NW Hotdogs, Tabor (Czech food), Tita’s Pista (Filipino food). Plus, BridgePort beers for $1, FREE Vitamin Water, and music by Jack Straw. 100% of the proceeds benefit Mercy Corps NW and Hacienda CDC. Sponsored by Willamette Week.

via Portland Food Carts

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Buffalo Exchange Dollar Day Sale benefiting Galapagos Conservancy 

Buffalo Exchange, source of hip used clothing, is having a $1 sale on April 19. Proceeds from the sale will go to Galapagos Conservancy to fund its efforts to repopulate Pinta Island with Espanola tortoises. Buffalo Exchange has two locations in Portland: one at 1036 W. Burnside, and the other at 1420 SE 37th Avenue. For more information, visit the Buffalo Exchange website.

via Portland Mercury Mod Blog

Add comment April 18th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Oct 26–28

***

Update: A couple more events:

Friday: Stanley Parr Archives & Records Center Open House. Visit Metroblogging Portland for details.

Saturday: Great Pumpkin Event at the Portland Farmers Market. Check extramsg.com for more info.

***

Admission is free for all of the events listed here. Have a great weekend!

Friday, October 26

• According to Willamette Week: “Poets Jim Fleming, Jane Glazer, Joan Maiers, Leah Stenson and Ron Talney read their ‘haunting’ poetry at Lake O’s Moonstruck Chocolate Cafe this Friday. The free event will also feature live jazz music, and any donations received during the evening will benefit the orphans at Little River of Artibonite, Haiti. Scary poems + chocolate + jazz + good cause = awesomeness. Moonstruck Chocolate Cafe, 45 S State Street, Lake Oswego, 697-7097. 7 pm. Free.”

• Kasey Anderson will be playing at Music Millennium at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

• The Foghorn Stringband will be performing at Kennedy School at 7:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the Kennedy School website.

• Beth Willis will be performing at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21 and older. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• T. Ray and the Shades will be performing at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Reading Frenzy is celebrating the release of Please Listen I Have Something to Tell You About What Is. Please Listen… is a beautiful full-color, jam-packed retrospective of Chris Johanson’s work from the past 10+ years, with text by Aaron Rose, and contributions by Sean Kennerly and Jack Hanley. Chris will be on hand to sign books in between djing. There will be snacks and other treats. The event starts at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Reading Frenzy website.

• Bart King, author of An Architectural Guidebook to Portland, will be speaking at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, October 27

• Portland Zombie Walk 2007 is happening in downtown Portland. Dress up like a zombie and meet in Pioneer Courthouse Square at 6:00 pm. Walk around pretending to eat brains. For more information on this and other affordable zombie-related events happening on Saturday, click here.

• The Portland Baroque Chamber Players, with harpsichord, cello and baroque violins, will bring the great music of the 17th and 18th centuries back to life for modern audiences, including masterpieces by J.S. Bach, Handel and Vivaldi. The musicians will play authentic period instruments (and locally crafted reproductions). The concert will take place at the Central Library in the Collins Gallery (3rd floor) from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Space is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Jazz guitarist Anson Wright will perform at Woodstock Library from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Space is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Author/writer Lynn Darroch will present a series of narratives about musicians, authors and others in the Latin world that are set to music performed live by guitarist Alfredo Muro and accompanied by percussionist Gary Hobbs. The event will take place at the Belmont Library from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Space is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Ledding Library in Milwaukie is hosting a Halloween party starting at 2:00 pm. Storyteller Will Hornyak will share friendly ghost stories. The party will include a scavenger hunt and crafts in addition to the storytelling. Children of all ages are welcome, with or without costumes. For more information, click here.

• Redwalls will be playing at Music Millennium at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

• Eric John Kaiser will be performing at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. 21 and over. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Cornelius Pass Roadhouse will be hosting a Halloween Costume Party at 7:00 pm, featuring live music by Spigot. For more information, visit the Cornelius Pass Roadhouse website.

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

• Mary Lynn Archibald will read from her book Accidental Cowgirl—Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the In Other Words website.

• Meet Kim Werker, author of the new crochet book Crochet Me: Designs to Fuel the Crochet Revolution, at 1:00 pm at Yarn Garden. Please contact Yarn Garden for more information.

• The 10th Annual Montavilla/East Portland Halloween Carnival is happening at the East Portland Community Center. Carnival games (special games for kids aged 3 and 4), face painting and crafts. The event starts at 4:00 pm. Tickets are 4 for $1 at the door. Bring 2 cans of food for the Oregon Food Bank and receive a maximum of 4 tickets per family for free. Appropriate for preschool & grade school ages with an adult. Fuel yourself with a Hot Dog Dinner (hot dog, chips & soda or water) for only $3! Carnival ends with a Costume Parade at 6:20 pm. For more information, click here.

• St. Johns Spooktacular is happening at the St. Johns Community Center from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Ages 3 to 11 with parents. Carnival, candy, prizes, snack bar, balloons, face painting, tattoos. Cost: 5 tickets for $1. Donate a can of food for the Oregon Food Bank and get 5 free tickets. (Limit of 1 can per child.) For more information, click here.

Sunday, October 28

• The Lead Safe Families Coalition will host a Lead Safe Portland event at the Matt Dishman Community Center from noon to 2:00 pm. The event will offer free blood lead testing for children, screening of toys for lead, workshops on removing lead-based paint, free food and free wooden toys for children up to age 12. For more information, click here.

• Excalibur Comics will host Wonder Woman Day from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. At this all-ages event, comic book creators Phil Jimenez, Gail Simone and Anne Timmons will be signing Wonder Woman comics and special art prints. There will also be a silent art auction with more than 150 of the world’s top artists contributing original art, plus raffles, costumes, and rare memorabilia. Anyone of any age who comes dressed in a super-hero costume will get free prizes. Proceeds from the event will benefit Raphael House of Portland, Bradley-Angle House, and Portland Women’s Crisis Line. For more information, click here.

• The Q Center is hosting its annual Spooktacular from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. This is a family-friendly event including pumpkin carving contests, kids crafts, costume awards, and caramel apples. For more information, click here.

• The MOMS Club of West Linn is hosting the third annual West Linn Spooky Stroll. Costumed moms, dads, kids and on-leash pets are invited to participate. The .7 mile stroll starts and ends at Tanner Creek Park in West Linn. Event begins at 3:00 pm and also includes music, crafts and goodies donated from parade sponsors. All net proceeds support the West Linn Holiday Food Drive. For more information, click here or here.

• Celebrate the fall harvest season at Fairview-Columbia Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Come to the library for an afternoon of autumnal crafts, stories and games. Space is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• It’s Family Discovery Sunday at the Museum of Contemporary Craft. This month’s theme is Designed to Use. Learn how to build a simple piece of furniture that has 101 uses. We’ll make a simple bench that will live at the Museum and also make a model to take home. Join Gary Rogowski and staff of the Northwest Wood Working Studio for an afternoon of furniture-making fun. The event lasts from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the Museum of Contemporary Craft website.

• Billy Kennedy will be performing at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21 and older. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Harrell Fletcher will talk about his book Learning to Love You More at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

• The Central Library will host “Portland Opera Preview: Cinderella” from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Chorus Master Robert Ainsley will give an inside look at the new production of Rossini’s Cinderella. Space is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library 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, feel free to contact me.

Add comment October 25th, 2007