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

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: June 26–28

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

Also, this is the final weekend of Pedalpalooza, and Shift to Bikes has information on the events. If you’re not sure whether an event is free, contact the organizers of that event.

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts:View artwork by more than 100 artists and enjoy family-friendly entertainment. The event takes place at the Lakewood Center for the Arts and George Rogers Park, both on State Street in downtown Lake Oswego. For more information, visit the event website. On the event website, find more information under “Arts Festival” in the navigation bar.

• North American Organic Brewers Festival takes place at Overlook Park (1301 N. Fremont St) all weekend. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, June 26

• Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “King Lear” at Cathedral Park at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Paula Sinclair & The Contenders (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.

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

• Author Daniel James Brown will talk about his book “The Indifferent Stars Above” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, June 27

• Good-in-the-NeighborHood is a multicultural music and food festival held annually in N/NE Portland. Saturday and Sunday at King School Park (4800 Block of NE 6th). Event starts at noon. For more information, visit the event website.

• Vancouver Recycled Arts Festival: View the artwork of more than 70 artists and enjoy entertainment for the whole family. Saturday and Sunday, Esther Short Park in Vancouver, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day. For more information, visit the event website.

• No. Fest: All day, several locations in St. Johns will host a variety of live performances: music, spoken word, kids entertainment, and more. For more information, visit the event website.

• Old House Fair: Attention old house owners and enthusiasts: The best old house experts in the Northwest will answer your questions and provide information on period-authentic renovation. Architectural Heritage Center (701 SE Grand Ave), 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “King Lear” at Autumn Ridge Park (17548 Northwest Fieldstone Drive, Beaverton) at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ten Tiny Dances:See 10 dance performances at three locations: Beaverton Farmers Market, Beaverton City Park, and Beaverton Library. Performances include Native American, Indian Classical, Ballet Sol Azteca, Hawaiian, modern dance and more. 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website (PDF file).

• Historic Sherwood Walking Tour: This information-filled stroll spotlights the historic buildings of Old Town and loops through the woods and wetlands of Stella Olsen Memorial Park before returning to Old Town. Meet at Southwest Pine and Second Street at 9:45 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Foster-Powell Garden Tour:Visit gardens in the neighborhood on June 27. Pick up a map at Holgate Library or Dennis’ Seven Dees on Powell on Friday and Saturday. Or you can request a map by email. For email address and more information, click here.

• 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 “Botanical Wonders of Tryon Creek.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• KPSU Radio 15th Anniversary Celebration: All-day (10:00 am to 10:00 pm) music festival featuring a variety of bands at Pioneer Courthouse Square. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash will perform at 5:00 pm at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

• Massive 8 Party:DJs, a fashion show showcasing local designers, a PBR wheel and more. Say “LifeisaParty” at the door and get in free before 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. Crown Room, 205 NW Fourth Ave.

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

• The Munro & Nichols Duo will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

• Western Aerial (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 Richie Unterberger will discuss his new book “White Light/White Heat: The Velvet Underground Day by Day” at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Poets Cynthia Sailers, Dana Ward, and Stephanie Youngwill read at Clinton Corner Café (21st and SE Clinton Ave) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, June 28

• Good-in-the-NeighborHood is a multicultural music and food festival held annually in N/NE Portland. Saturday and Sunday at King School Park (4800 Block of NE 6th). Event starts at noon. For more information, visit the event website.

• Vancouver Recycled Arts Festival: View the artwork of more than 70 artists and enjoy entertainment for the whole family. Saturday and Sunday, Esther Short Park in Vancouver, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day. For more information, visit the event website.

• Kenton to Slough Walking Tour: With Metro Councilor Rex Burkholder and walking guru and author Laura Foster, trek down the North Denver Avenue viaduct along the North Columbia Slough and see the wildlife that thrives in Portland’s backyard. Meet at 8319 N. Denver Ave at the Kenton/North Denver Avenue MAX station at 8:45 am. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Author Victor Kamenir, Hillsboro police officer and new local author, will read from his book, “The Bloody Triangle: The Defeat of Soviet Armor in the Ukraine, June 1941.” Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 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.

Add comment June 25th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: June 5–7

Reminder: Admission to OMSI is $2 on Sunday.

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

Have a great weekend!

Friday, June 5

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

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

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

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

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

• Holocene 6 Year Anniversary Show 1: Holocene is hosting a dance party with Marcos Cabral, Linger & Quiet, and MDY & Remy the Restless. 1001 SE Morrison, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Redwood Son (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.

• “Portland Noir”: Editor Kevin Sampsell will be joined by contributors Chris A. Bolton, Luciana Lopez, and Jonathan Selwood to present this collection of stories that explores Portland’s dark, rainy underbelly. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, June 6

• Dragon Moon Festival: Come to Old Town Chinatown for an outdoor festival celebrating Asian culture. This family-friendly event includes live music, cultural entertainment, a culinary stage with chefs preparing Asian dishes, and more. NW Davis between 3rd and 4th Ave. Saturday noon to 10:00 pm and Sunday noon to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Grand Floral Parade starts at 10:00 am at the Memorial Coliseum, then travels down MLK Jr. Blvd, across the Burnside Bridge, and into downtown Portland, ending at Lincoln High School. For more information, visit the event website.

• Dragon Boat Races: Races will take place on Saturday and Sunday at the south end of Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 8:00 am to approximately 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• State Parks Day at Tryon Creek: Celebrate Oregon’s Sesquicentennial and State Parks Day at Tryon Creek. Learn about park history and current programs, taste some of Oregon’s specialty beverages and snacks, take a self-guided hike, and participate in dedicating the park’s first time capsule and leave an item for visitors to see in another 150 years. 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gresham Center for the Arts Plaza Grand Opening Celebration: In celebration of the completion of Phase I of the Center for the Arts Plaza, the event will feature a dedication ceremony at 12:30 pm, followed by live music from four bands and family activities. The plaza is on NE Third St and NE Hood Ave in historic downtown Gresham. 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 “Officially Oregon.” 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.

• Green Walks: A guide from Portland Parks & Recreation will lead a tour of Hoyt Arboretum from 10:00 am–11:00 am. Meet at the visitor’s center, 4000 SW Fairway Blvd. For more information, visit the event website.

• Ten Toe Express Guided Walk: Author Laura Foster will lead a tour of Nob Hill in Northwest Portland. Distance: 3.5 miles or 7,000 steps. Duration: 2 hours. Meet at Civic Plaza (SW 18th & Morrison), 9:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Holocene 6 Year Anniversary Show 2: Talkdemonic, Explode Into Colors, Nurses, Gulls, and DJs E*Rock and Bobby Dangerous will perform. 1001 SE Morrison, 8:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

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

• Jack McMahon (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 Tami Lynn Kent will talk about her book “Wild Feminine: Finding Power, Spirit, & Joy in the Root of the Female Body” at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 B NE Killingsworth St), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• First-Time Homebuyers’ Seminar: PCC Real Estate Instructor Brad Vincent will explain the new $8,000 federal tax credit available for first-time homebuyers. Mortgage industry experts will answer questions about buyer qualification and financing options. Tigard Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd), 1:00 pm–2:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Launch Your Life” Book Release Party: Author Morgan Rich will celebrate the release of his book “Launch Your Life: 5 Secrets to Knowing What You Want in Your Teens, College Years, and Early Career.” Lucky Lab Brewpub (915 SE Hawthorne Blvd), 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, June 7

• Dragon Moon Festival: Come to Old Town Chinatown for an outdoor festival celebrating Asian culture. This family-friendly event includes live music, cultural entertainment, a culinary stage with chefs preparing Asian dishes, and more. NW Davis between 3rd and 4th Ave. Saturday noon to 10:00 pm and Sunday noon to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Milk Carton Boat Races: In honor of National Dairy Month, the Dairy Farmers of Oregon are pleased to announce the return of the Milk Carton Boat Races to Portland. Westmoreland Park (SE McLoughlin Blvd & Bybee Blvd), 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Dragon Boat Races: Races will take place on Saturday and Sunday at the south end of Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 8:00 am to approximately 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Walking Tour in Gresham, Springwater Corridor Trail: This 5.2-mile round-trip walk, led by walking guru and author Laura Foster and natural resources scientist Kate Holleran, investigates three pioneer cemeteries and a replica of a 1903 streetcar. Elevated terrain. 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm; meet at Main City Park at 1:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Family Pride Day at Q Center: Family Pride is a time for the kids to play with other children, and parents to socialize with each other. The event includes live music, games and more. The Portland Children’s Museum will lead craft projects. Q Center (4115 N. Mississippi Ave), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Reclinerland and Carolyn Berk (of Lovers) will perform at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lake Oswego Millennium Concert Band will perform at Lakeridge High School (1235 Overlook Dr, Lake Oswego) at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Sunday Cinema Classics: The original “Father of the Bride” will be showing at St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• 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.

• Author China Miéville will present his book “The City and the City” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Artisan Cheese of the Pacific Northwest”: Author Tami Parr will present this book at 1:00 pm at Pastaworks (3735 SE Hawthorne Blvd). The event will feature complimentary wine tastings and cheese from Rivers Edge Chèvre, Rogue River Creamery, Ancient Heritage Dairy, Willamette Valley Cheese, and Ferns’ Edge Goat Dairy. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Wicked Plants: A Book of Botanical Atrocities”: Author Amy Stewart will present this book at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton). For more information, visit the event website.

• Living With Wildlife Presentation: Bonnie Shoffer, wildlife rehabilitator and naturalist, will teach us how to coexist with those urban critters that live around our homes, tips for what to do when you find baby birds, and more. Tryon Creek Park, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Ages 12 and over. 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 June 4th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 24–26

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

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

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

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

Friday, April 24

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, April 25

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, April 26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 comments April 23rd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 17–19

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

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

Have a great weekend!

Friday, April 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, April 18

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, April 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 comment April 16th, 2009

$2 Off Admission to 2009 Yard, Garden & Patio Show

If you’re planning to go to the 2009 Yard, Garden & Patio Show this weekend (February 27–March 1, 2009), be sure to visit the show’s website to print out a coupon for $2 off admission. Here’s the link.

Admission is $11 for ages 13+. Children 12 and under get in free.

Add comment February 26th, 2009

$3 Discount for 2009 Portland Home & Garden Show

Going to the 2009 Portland Home & Garden Show? Be sure to bring your
Fred Meyer Rewards card to the show to get $3 off your admission. If you do not have a Rewards card, you can sign up for one at any Fred Meyer store.

Show details:

2009 Portland Home & Garden Show
February 18–22, 2009

Admission
$10.00 general admission
Free to children under 16
Free (with ID) for American Horticulture Society Members

Location
Portland Expo Center
2060 North Marine Drive, Portland, Oregon 97217

For more information, visit the event website.

1 comment February 18th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: September 26–28

Update: See comments for more events.

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

All weekend (September 26–28)

• Portland Art Open: Portland Art Open is a three-day art event & party showcasing the range of talents and styles of Portland’s artists. It’s your chance to experience art on the most personal level possible—see how each artist envisions their work in their own setting. Visit the event website for more information.

Friday, September 26

• American Indian Day Celebration: Local area American Indian organizations will host a celebration of American Indian cultures at Pioneer Courthouse Square from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Northwest tribal leaders, drum groups, dancers, and arts and crafts vendors will share their talents and experiences. Visit the event website for more information.

• ActivSpace Open House: Artists, jewelers, crafters, designers, and small business owners open their doors. Meet artists in their workspaces. Local bands will perform. Craft/bead/art supply rummage sale. Friday (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and Saturday (11:00 am to 5:00 pm), 833 SE Main St. See comments below for more information.

• Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: Copy, Ohmega Watts, Fleshtone, Ben Darwish Trio, Synchronicity Frequency, Polly High, DJ Hanukkah Miracle and more. 8:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

• Bar 12 will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

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

• Pete Krebs 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. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

• John Bunzow Trio (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

• Author John Elder Robison will talk about his book “Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, September 27

• Polish Festival: This two-day event includes performances by Polish dance groups and music bands, a polka contest, Polish food and more. Last year’s festival was lots of fun; read about it and see pictures here. Saturday and Sunday, 3900 N. Interstate Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

• Museum Day: Get a free admission pass for you and a guest redeemable at participating museums. For more information, visit the Smithsonian magazine website.

• Welcome the Rain: Celebrate our abundant rainfall and learn about rain-related issues such as bike commuting in the rain, rain gardens, and more. Art and science activities as well as a story teller will keep the kids entertained. Sunnyside Environmental School (3421 SE Salmon St), 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. www.welcometherain.org

• SoEaPo Summer’s Last Rockin’ Outdoor Fest: At Plan B Bar (21+), artisan booths will be set up outside, live music on two stages (one stage outside, the other stage inside), BBQ. 1305 SE 8th, 4:00 pm to midnight. Visit the event website for more information.

• ActivSpace Open House: Artists, jewelers, crafters, designers, and small business owners open their doors. Meet artists in their workspaces. Local bands will perform. Craft/bead/art supply rummage sale. Friday (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and Saturday (11:00 am to 5:00 pm), 833 SE Main St. See comments below for more information.

• Harvest Fun Day and Extreme Scarecrow Makeover (Vancouver): Join the Clark County Historical Museum for a free family-friendly day of hands-on crafts and autumn events such as pumpkin decorating, scarecrow making, blacksmith demonstrations, pie-eating contests and more. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

• GreenWalks: Explore Oaks Bottom with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Park staff will lead this tour from the North parking lot of Oaks Bottom located across the street from 5120 SE Milwaukie Ave. Visit the PP&R website for details.

• Ten Toe Guided Walk: Take a free Tram ride to OHSU and hike the trails of Marquam Nature Park as we climb to Council Crest Park and back. Meeting place: Tram stop, north of SW Whitaker and River Parkway. 9:00 am. Distance: 4 miles. Time: 2.5 hours. Visit the event website for more information.

• Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: Opera Theater Oregon, Mortified, Classical Revolution, Action Adventure Theater, Hexasion, Pivot Dance Company. 7:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

• Cold War Kids (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

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

• The Hunter Donnaloia Duo will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Eric John Kaiser (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

• Lincoln Crockett & Enemies (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

• Children’s book author Amber Keyser will bring camping equipment and her picture book “An Algonquin Heart Song: Paddle My Own Canoe” to share what it’s like to go on a canoe trip. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Fiesta con Animales/Party with the Animals: In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Oregon Zoo’s animals will be visiting libraries. Hands-on discovery stations will let visitors experience feathers, fur and scales of a few of Latin America’s animals. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 3:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• SCRAP Art Activity: Kids and their families are invited to work with artist Emily Weisbard of SCRAP to create a unique piece of art from reused and reclaimed materials. Presenter is bilingual, Spanish/English. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Vietnamese Film at Midland Library: “Journey From the Fall” is about a family’s experience in the Vietnam War and their immigration to America. The film will be presented in Vietnamese with English subtitles. A short discussion will follow. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 3:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Oregon Encyclopedia Project Community Meeting: Oregonians who are interested in our history and culture are encouraged to research and write authoritative articles for the Oregon Encyclopedia Project. Learn more about this project at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Meet Leigh Radford, author of “AlterKNITS Felt,” from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at CloseKnit (2140 NE Alberta St). Visit the event website for more information.

Sunday, September 28

• Polish Festival: This two-day event includes performances by Polish dance groups and music bands, a polka contest, Polish food and more. Last year’s festival was lots of fun; read about it and see pictures here. Saturday and Sunday, 3900 N. Interstate Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

• Family Discovery Sunday at Museum of Contemporary Craft: Using discarded color strips from the edges of printed books, participants will divert paper headed to the recyclery and create paper vessels and other art objects. 724 NW Davis St, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

• Natural Cycles Exhibit Family Day: Join in a community celebration of the new art exhibit featuring local examples of natural art. Enjoy special hands-on art activities for adults and children along the Trillium Trail. Tryon Creek State Park, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

• Oktoberfest at Edgefield: The celebration includes live music, bellydancers, balloon twisting, plant sale and more. Wander about the entire property, beer and bratwurst in hand, to check out the fun. Music starts at 11:00 am and runs through the evening. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

• Meiko (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

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

• Tigard Guitar Festival at Tigard Library: Cascadia Guitar Duo will perform an outdoor concert of Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, Contemporary and Latin pieces from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Stanley Plumly will talk about his book “Posthumous Keats: A Personal Biography” at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

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

• Ann Littlewood, author of “Night Kill,” and Sheila Simonson, author of “Buffalo Bill’s Defunct” will speak at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 5:00 pm. Visit the MBTB website for more information.

• Author Clyde W. Ford will talk about his book “Precious Cargo” at 3:00 pm at Barnes & Noble, Clackamas Town Center Mall. Visit the B&N website for more information.

• Puppet Theater “The Green Bird”: The Oregon Shadow Theater presents a puppet show inspired by Mexican folktales. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Vote 2008: Join Dr. Jim Moore, Professor of Political Science at Pacific University, for a discussion about the presidential hopefuls and the race to date. Bring questions for the group and prepare to get involved in the debate. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: “Pig Roast & Tank of Fish,” a documentary about Portland’s Chinatown, will be showing at 7:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

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

2 comments September 26th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: June 27–29

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

All weekend

• Pedalpalooza: It’s the last weekend for this bike-related mega-event. For the full schedule, visit the event website.

• North American Organic Brewers Festival: Admission is free, and you can get a $1 discount on the tasting mug if you ride MAX to the event and present your validated ticket. The three-day festival takes place at Overlook Park. For details, visit the event website.

Friday, June 27

• Portland Actors Ensemble will perform Julius Caesar in Washington Park at 7:30 pm. Visit the PAE website for details.

• Environmental Film Event: The film Kilowatt Ours will be showing at Bagdad Theater. Doors open at 5:00 pm, show starts at 6:00 pm. All ages welcome. Visit the Bagdad website for more information.

• Floater (website) will perform at Music Millennium at 7:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for details.

• Kate Davis (website) will perform at RiverPlace Hotel at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

• Miss Michael Jodell (website) and Matt Brown (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. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

• Lewi Longmire Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Alexa Wiley (website) will perform at Borders in Beaverton at 7:00 pm. Visit the Borders website for more information.

• Multnomah Outdoor Cinema: Men in Black will be showing at the Multnomah Arts Center at dusk. Visit the event website for more information.

• Author Chris Hedges will talk about his book Collateral Damage at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

• Comic book creator Peter Bagge will talk about his book Apocalypse Nerd at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, June 28

• Good-in-the-NeighborHood Festival: This two-day multicultural music and food festival features live music, cultural food vendors, kids’ arts and crafts, and more. Saturday and Sunday starting at noon at King School Park. Visit the event website for details.

• Portland Mural Show Block Party and LivePaint: At this community event, the main attraction will be a live paint-off featuring 40 artists. Live music all day. Olympic Mills Commerce Center, noon to 6:00 pm. Visit the event website for details.

• Old House Fair: If you’re interested in old houses and period-authentic renovation, this is your event. Architectural Heritage Center, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. For details, visit the event website.

• Portland Actors Ensemble will perform Julius Caesar in Washington Park at 7:30 pm. Visit the PAE website for details.

• South Portland Historical Walking Tour: Author Laura Foster will lead this walking tour and talk about the history of Portland’s oldest neighborhoods. 9:00 am. For details and meeting place, visit the event website.

• GreenWalks: Explore Sylvania Natural Area Park (SW 53 & Capitol Hwy) with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Visit the PP&R website for details.

• Recycled Arts Festival in Vancouver: The festival will include live music, kids’ activities and entertainment, art vendors, and more. Esther Short Park in Vancouver. Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. For details, visit the event website.

• Bike Repair and Maintenance Clinic for Women: Bike Gallery will present a hands-on clinic covering basic bike maintenance, flat repair, and cleaning techniques. Multnomah Arts Center, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. For details, visit the event website.

• Grant Richards (website) will perform at RiverPlace Hotel at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

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

• The Red Rubber Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Carlyle (website) will perform at Borders in Tigard at 7:00 pm. Visit the Borders website for more information.

• Americana Music Concert: Stumptown Stars will perform multiple genres of Americana music, such as Appalachian, bluegrass, folk and more. Sellwood-Moreland Library at 2:00 pm. For details, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Wizard Rock Concert: Tonks, a band that plays original rock inspired by the Harry Potter book series, will perform at Capitol Hill Library at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• African Drumming and Dancing Workshop: Taught by musician and artist Chata Addy, this interactive workshop will introduce families to Ghanaian music. North Portland Library, 11:00 am. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Poetry Reading and Walk: Sharon Wood Wortman will talk about her book Walking Bridges Using Poetry as a Compass: Poems About Bridges Real and Imagined by 70 Poets, with Directions for Five Self-Guided Explorations at St. Johns Library, 3:30 pm. The reading will be followed by an optional walk to St. Johns Bridge. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• West Linn Movies in the Park: Horton Hears a Who! will be playing at Mary S. Young Park at dusk. For more information, visit the City of West Linn website.  (Look under “Upcoming Parks & Recreation Events & Activities”)

• Comics and the Internet: An interactive discussion with comic book creators Peter Bagge, Daniel Duford, Neal Skorpen, Dylan Meconis and Jenn Manley Lee. Someday Lounge, 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the Someday Lounge website.

• Comics Party + Magazine Release: After his appearance at Someday Lounge, Peter Bagge will be at Floating World Comics from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm with fellow artists J.R. Williams and David Chelsea. Also, the event will celebrate the release of Ash Magazine, a literary and visual arts publication. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s book author Dawn Desjardins will talk about her books at 1:00 pm at Twenty-Third Avenue Books. Visit the shop’s website for more information.

Sunday, June 29

• Good-in-the-NeighborHood Festival: This two-day multicultural music and food festival features live music, cultural food vendors, kids’ arts and crafts, and more. Saturday and Sunday starting at noon at King School Park. Visit the event website for details.

• Recycled Arts Festival in Vancouver: The festival will include live music, kids’ activities and entertainment, art vendors, and more. Esther Short Park in Vancouver. Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. For details, visit the event website.

• Readers Theatre Repertory will perform Fighting Words at the Central Library at 2:00 pm. The performance mixes drama, music and poetry to explore the topic of independence in the US. For reservations, contact 503.295.4997 or info@readerstheatrerep.org. For more information, visit the RTR website.

• Family Discovery Sunday at Museum of Contemporary Craft: The theme is Mosaic Madness. With paper, families can make Gaudí-inspired sculptures to take home. 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For details, visit the MCC website.

• Portland Lounge Series Concert: Carcrashlander, Shelley Short and Adam Shearer (of Weinland)  will perform at Towne Lounge at 9:30 pm. For more information, visit the Towne Lounge website.

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

1 comment June 27th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Mar 28–30

Ed Begley, Jr., chickens and David Wu. What more could you ask for? 

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

Friday, March 28

• The Better Living Show, an event focused on green living, is happening all weekend at the Portland Expo Center. The event is packed with presentations, music, kids activities, food, and more. Ed Begley, Jr., will speak at 7:00 pm on Friday. Event hours are: Friday, noon to 9:00 pm; Saturday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. For a complete schedule of events, visit the Better Living Show website.

• Chicken Fest 2008 is taking place all weekend at Livingscape Nursery. You’ll get the chance to see 20 different breeds of live chickens (who knew there were so many?), and there’ll be games and activities for the kids. On Saturday from 10:00 am until noon, an “Eggspert” will be on hand to answer your chicken-related questions. And on Sunday, there will be a free workshop on how to build a chicken coop. The event also features several workshops and cooking classes for $5 to $10. Visit the Livingscape Nursery website for more information. (from Enviromom)

• The Victoria will perform at Music Millennium at 6:00 pm. For details, visit the Music Millennium website.

• Frank Blair will perform at Borders in Vancouver at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Borders website.

• Rogue Bluegrass will perform at Borders in Beaverton at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Borders website.

• Lauren Sheehan will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21 and older. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

• Sweet City Slang will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For details, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

• Allen Hunter and A.G. Donnaloia (soul jazz) will perform at Press Club at 8:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.  

• Say Anything will be showing at Twisted at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the Twisted website.

• Delectable Designs with Cupcake Jones, St. Johns Library, 2:00 pm: Learn about the origins of foods like vanilla and chocolate found in this year’s Every Family Reads book, Yum! ¡Mmmm! ¡Qué Rico!, by Pat Mora. Then you’ll get the chance to decorate your own cupcake. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Space at this program is limited. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Alison Larkin will talk about her book The English American at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. Visit the Powell’s website for details.

• Book release party and reading: Jaret Ferratusco will talk about his new book Please Don’t Leave Me at Opposable Thumb Gallery & Cafe (3312 SE Belmont Street) at 8:00 pm. DJ Chris Leighty will provide music. For more information, visit the book’s MySpace page. (from PDX Pipeline)

Saturday, March 29

• The Better Living Show continues at the Portland Expo Center. The event is packed with presentations, music, kids activities, food, and more. Portland Fashion Week is sponsoring a panel discussion and fashion show focused on eco-responsible fashion. In addition to the eco-related events, there’ll be a celebration of Support Women Artists Now (SWAN) Day featuring musical performances, theatre, artwork and workshops by local female artists. Event hours are: Friday, noon to 9:00 pm; Saturday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. For a complete schedule of events, visit the Better Living Show website.

• Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Center grand opening celebration, 11:30 am to 4:00 pm: The celebration will start with a ribbon cutting ceremony with comments from author Richard Louv, visits from David Wu and other local dignitaries, tours of the new Wildlife Center, guided nature walks, and educational activities for everyone. The Wildlife Center is located north of Sherwood. Visit the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge website for details. 

• Chicken Fest 2008 continues at Livingscape Nursery. You’ll get the chance to see 20 different breeds of live chickens (who knew there were so many?), and there’ll be games and activities for the kids. On Saturday from 10:00 am until noon, an “Eggspert” will be on hand to answer your chicken-related questions. And on Sunday, there will be a free workshop on how to build a chicken coop. The event also features several workshops and cooking classes for $5 to $10. Visit the Livingscape Nursery website for more information.

• Jimmy Lott will perform at Music Millennium at 6:00 pm. For details, visit the Music Millennium website.

• Eddie Parente will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21 and over. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

• Conroy-DeBrie Trio 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.

• Courtney Jones will perform at Borders in Gresham at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Borders website.

• Lew Jones will perform at Borders in Tigard at 7:00 pm. For details, visit the Borders website.

• DJs Dave Allen and Ratanski will spin classic hip hop, downtempo trip hop and post punk dance at Press Club at 8:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.  

• Symphony Storytime at Midland Library, 2:30 pm–3:30 pm: Families will enjoy music, storytime and hands-on crafts. A member of the Oregon Symphony will play and discuss orchestral music. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Local writer Kristin Thiel and five other contributors to the VoiceCatcher women writers anthology will read their work at 2:00 pm at the Central Library. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

• The Speakin’ Beacon puppet show, Albina Library, 11:00 am: Bruce Orr of the Mudeye Puppet Company and Penny Walter of Penny’s Puppet Productions will perform a family-friendly puppet show with aliens, forest creatures, and a Yeti. After the show, you’ll be able to get a closer look at the puppets, made entirely from reused materials. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

Sunday, March 30 

• The Better Living Show continues at the Portland Expo Center. The event is packed with presentations, music, kids activities, food, and more. Event hours are: Friday, noon to 9:00 pm; Saturday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. For a complete schedule of events, visit the Better Living Show website.

• Chicken Fest 2008 continues at Livingscape Nursery. You’ll get the chance to see 20 different breeds of live chickens (who knew there were so many?), and there’ll be games and activities for the kids. On Saturday from 10:00 am until noon, an “Eggspert” will be on hand to answer your chicken-related questions. And on Sunday, there will be a free workshop on how to build a chicken coop. The event also features several workshops and cooking classes for $5 to $10. Visit the Livingscape Nursery website for more information. 

• Laura Gibson, Per Se and Meyercord will perform at Towne Lounge at 9:30 pm (doors open at 9:00 pm). For more information, visit the Towne Lounge website.

• Russian Film Series at Midland Library will be showing Born in the USSR: 21 Up at noon. The film is in Russian with English subtitles. A brief discussion will follow. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.  

• Ann Christensen and Lisa Bergman will play music from their CD American Music: Jazz, Broadway, Hollywood at the Central Library at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah County Library website.

• Night of the Iguana will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.   

• Hotel deLuxe will screen Hurricane Heroes, a documentary on Katrina animal rescues by Portland filmmaker Mike Shiley. 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 Hotel deLuxe 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 March 28th, 2008

With 84 Square Foot Home, Woman Finds That Less Space Equals More Time and Money

On Blogging Away Debt, I read about a woman named Dee Williams who lives in a house no bigger than a parking space. The story caught my eye for several reasons (beyond the initial shock that anyone could live comfortably in such a small space, much less choose to do so):

1. By living in just 84 square feet, Dee has more time and money. She has no mortgage and very low utility bills. Therefore, she only needs to work part-time and still has money to give to charitable causes.

2. She’s from the Pacific Northwest. She lives in Olympia and used to live in Portland. What can I say, I have a lot of regional pride.

3. Dee built her home. As a woman, I admire her success. She decided to build a small, green, functional house. She researched how to do it. She did it. What’s more inspirational than that? I think that kind of inspiration can be applied to any aspect of one’s life, even if you’d never dream of living in an 84 square foot home.

4. To build her home, she used as many second-hand materials as she could. Her electricity is generated by solar panels.

5. Not only does she have more money, time and environmental karma, she also seems to have more confidence. According to The Olympian, Dee said her decision to live in a small home is “empowering.”

6. Last but not least, this story reminds me that there are a lot of choices out there that work. When it comes to material possessions, there aren’t a lot of needs. Each person has to gauge the amount that’s right for them. Personally, I wouldn’t trade my home for Dee’s, but I respect her choice and her happiness.   

To learn more about this story, visit katu.com (click on “Video” under the picture for the full report) or The Olympian.

6 comments July 31st, 2007