Outdoors❯Running & Races

Prompt to Profit is a 3-day online bootcamp focused on helping founders, builders, and creators set up the systems they need to move from idea to execution. Across three focused sessions, we’ll work through the foundations of product development, workflow systems, and practical next steps for building something people can actually use, test, and grow. This bootcamp is designed for early-stage founders, hackathon builders, vibe coders, solo entrepreneurs, and anyone with an idea they want to turn into a real product or business. You’ll learn how to organize your idea, define your product, build simple systems, and create a clear path from concept to launch. Schedule Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Location Online Bring your idea, your laptop, and your willingness to build. By the end of the weekend, you’ll have more clarity, more structure, and a stronger foundation for turning your prompt into profit.

Gateway to Adventure is a premium D&D learning experience. Been interested in trying out Dungeons & Dragons but didn't know where to find a group or how to get started? Let us take care of that for you!

You (and your friends) can embark on a curated adventure, played out over 3 weekly sessions. You will learn all the basics from character generation to combat and roleplaying in a safe space with pro Dungeon Master Jordan (aka @gendergolemdm ).

Sessions require a minimum of 4 players to run and can accommodate up to 6 players.

If you have any questions at all about the experience or how to book please give us a call or shoot us an email at [email protected]

The 10th Annual Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation Turkey Trot, presented by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union, takes place on a scenic route through Ridgefield, traveling through Abrams Park and along Lake River. It’s a 5K family friendly run/walk event that raises funds to help the Foundation’s efforts to provide scholarships and grant opportunities to students, teachers, and staff. Last year’s event had more than 1,000 participants, and we hope to grow our event even more this year as we support Ridgefield schools and their students.

This year’s 10th Annual Turkey Trot, presented by Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union will take place on Thursday, November 26th, starting with the Drumstick Dash—a short run for children ages 5 and under and not yet in kindergarten —at 8:45 am. The main event, a 5K run/walk, follows at 9:00 am. Both events will begin and end at Union Ridge Elementary School in downtown Ridgefield.

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While the Turkey Trot is a fun run/walk without a formal timer, participants are encouraged to enjoy the spirit of the event and work up an appetite for their Thanksgiving feast.

Race packet pick up and in-person registration will be held on Wednesday, November 25th, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, and again on race day from 7:45 to 8:45 am in the Union Ridge Elementary School Gym. A limited number of extra T-shirts will be available for purchase during in-person registration.

To ensure you get a race T-shirt, please register by Wednesday, November 11th. Additionally, we encourage participants to bring nonperishable food items to packet pick-up for donation to the Ridgefield Family Resource Center. Each item donated will earn you a ticket for a chance to win $100 in local restaurant gift cards.

All proceeds from the event will be equally shared between the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation and the Ridgefield Family Resource Center, making this a great way to give back to our community while embracing the Thanksgiving spirit. See you there!

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RACE DETAILS

DRUMSTICK DASH

Once again our Turkey Trot will feature a Drumstick Dash, a short run for our youngest participants ages 5 and under (not yet in kindergarten). We will make an announcement at 8:40 am for any children interested in participating to report to the starting line. The Drumstick Dash will begin at 8:45 am.

5K FUN RUN/WALK

Our main event, the 5K run/walk, will get started at 9 am. Those who are planning to run should position themselves at the front of the crowd, closest to the starting line. Walkers, please make way for runners who are trying to move to the front. There is no official timer for our fun run/walk event, so those interested in knowing their finish times should plan to use their own watches to time themselves. For safety, please keep in mind that at certain points on the route you may be asked to stop for vehicle traffic (vehicles have the right of way during the Turkey Trot) so finish times could be impacted.

5K ROUTE:

The course begins on 5th Ave. at Union Ridge Elementary and then heads down to Abrams Park and continues northeast along the trail bordering Gee Creek. From there the route takes participants up Heron Drive to Main Ave. It then continues south to the corner of Main & Pioneer and takes participants down to the Ridgefield waterfront via the railroad overpass. Participants will follow the course along Lake River and turn around near the south end of Carty Lake. The course then continues in reverse, back up to the corner of Main & Pioneer, where participants will head north for one block before heading east up Simons St. to finish back at Union Ridge Elementary.

EVENT SAFETY NOTE

Roads remain open throughout the event. Please stay to the right on roads and use sidewalks whenever possible. Once again, this is a family friendly fun run/walk event. Participants may be subject to brief waits for vehicle traffic. Since roads remain open, vehicle traffic does have the right away.

BRING ITEMS FOR THE RIDGEFIELD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

The Ridgefield Family Resource Center is seeking non-perishable foods (especially cereal, rice, pasta sauce, canned fruit, canned meat, and canned pasta meals) as well as new socks and stretchy knit gloves. For each item (non-perishable food items, pairs of socks, and pairs of gloves) brought to packet pick-up/in-person registration on Wednesday or Thursday morning, you will receive one ticket for entry into a prize drawing for $100 of local restaurant gift cards.

T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

For any participants who do not meet the T-shirt registration deadline of Nov. 12th at 10 pm, a limited number of T-shirts will be available for purchase at packet pick-up/in-person registration at a cost of $5 each.

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EVENT PARKING

Parking will be available at Union Ridge Elementary, the RACC, and the Ridgefield Church of the Nazarene. Street parking throughout downtown Ridgefield is also an option for participants.

Learn about your tenant and survivor rights as renters with YWCA Clark County and Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program’s Housing Justice Project during a workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at YWCA Clark County, 3609 Main St., Vancouver. Participants will learn about their rights and responsibilities as tenants, common housing issues and available legal resources. The workshop will also provide information specifically for survivors of domestic violence, including housing protections and considerations and resources to support housing stability. Register at eventbrite.com/e/tenant-rights-workshop-tickets-2002166313340.

Learn essential computer skills in this beginner-friendly class, from logging in to personalizing settings. In the second hour, focus on how to protect yourself from email scams, malicious software, and identity theft. Perfect for first-time users.

Vanessa Grace of Soul Amplified will lead a workshop about the spiritual aspects of autumn from 6:30-8 p.m. Nov. 4 at Self Balance Massage, 8301 N.E. Hazel Dell Ave., Vancouver. Autumn is the transition between the outward-focused, fast pace of summer and inward-focused, slow pace of winter. Students will learn how to “live the autumn life” in preparation for winter, the art of releasing and the significance of endings. Grace will lead participants in a guided mediation, leaf release ritual and journaling. The cost is $30, including a digital workbook. For details, email [email protected].

Master Gardener and Master Melittologist Anne Bulger on native mason bees: why they’re such good pollinators, what’s hiding inside their nesting tubes, and how to harvest and clean cocoons so your bees make it through winter healthy. Good for total beginners and people already hosting bees. Part of the Community Workshop Series. Sign up ahead.

The Teen Table is a relaxed, hands-on cooking experience for teens who want to feel more comfortable in the kitchen, learn to cook for themselves, and spend time with other teens who enjoy good food.

Whether they’re brand new to cooking or already have some experience, we’ll focus on building practical skills and confidence. Rather than following strict recipes, teens will learn how to think like a home cook—how to make decisions, work with what they have, adjust as they go, and turn simple ingredients into food they’re excited to eat.

We’ll also cover meal planning, kitchen organization, time management, using ingredients thoughtfully, making adjustments, and cleaning up. Most importantly, teens will gain the confidence to cook without needing a recipe to tell them exactly what to do.

Every class ends with everyone sitting down together to enjoy what we’ve made—because cooking is more fun when it’s shared, and learning how to feed yourself well is a pretty great skill to have.

The goal is simple: to help teens feel at home in the kitchen, make food they enjoy, and learn how to take care of themselves through cooking.

November Menu:

• Herb Roasted Chicken

• Seasonal Vegetable Sides

December Menu:

• Veggie Chili

• Cornbread

What to expect:

• Price is per person and includes the class, all ingredients, and dinner.

• Each class is hands-on and centered around preparing a meal together. We’ll cook, talk, experiment, ask questions, make mistakes, and figure things out along the way. There’s no pressure to already know what you’re doing or to be a “chef”— just a welcoming space to learn at your own pace.

• Some food allergies and intolerances can be accommodated, but please note that we may cook with eggs, dairy, nuts, poultry, beef, pork, and fish. If you’re unsure whether the class will be a good fit for your dietary needs, please inquire before registering.

• This series is for kids aged 13-18

About our Instructor:

Chef Leta Merrill is the founder and Pasta Maia, a seasoned culinary instructor, and also a mom of teens. She loves cooking with families and teaching young cooks in a fun, hands-on environment. Inspired by the Cucina Povera philosophy of simple, resourceful cooking made with love, Leta brings old-world Italian warmth and a love of gathering around the table to every class.

In rating Small Things Like These 41st on its list of the 100 Best Books of the 21st Century, the New York Times said: “Not a word is wasted in Keegan’s small, burnished gem of a novel, a sort of Dickensian miniature….”

This is an important novella in the vein of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, but with an ending that packs a different punch. At its center is a man torn between family, community, church, and one young woman in a terrible predicament. He must make a choice, and Keegan’s exquisite, concise writing reveals that agonizing choice. It’s a perfect story to ponder and discuss: What would you choose in his situation?

Keegan’s other work, “Foster,” is a long short story with a big impact. No word is wasted as Keegan tells the story of a young girl sent to live with another family when her own mother is fraught with problems of her own. Again, in the New York Times’s glowing review they say: “Keegan makes us complicit in what her characters want, setting us up for utter heartbreak when they don’t get it.”

Foster’s is already considered canonical and is taught as a required text for Comparative Literature in the curriculum for Ireland’s secondary schools.

Join us in this two-week exploration of these incredible short works by an Irish writer of spare prose and mmense talent.

Access Program
We want our writing classes and seminars to be accessible to everyone, regardless of income and background. We understand that our tuition structure can present obstacles for some people. Our Access Program offers writing class and seminar tuitions at a reduced rate. Most writing classes have at least one access spot available.

Please apply here for access rate tuition. Contact Susan Moore at [email protected] if you have questions.

Liaison position
Every in-person class and seminar at Literary Arts has one liaison position. Liaisons perform specific duties for each class meeting. If you are a liaison for a class or seminar, the full amount of your tuition is covered by Literary Arts.

Apply here for the liaison position.

Mondays, November 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th, and Dec 7th from 6-8 pm (with exception on Nov 9th— start time will be 7 pm due to a private event prior.) 15 spots available. Select dates have a limited number of drop-in seats! $200 for six 2 hour sessions across six weeks on Mondays. All materials included. Rotating craft each week— giftable and practical items, perfect for bringing cheer to your home in winter, or knocking out some christmas gifts and stocking stuffers early. We will start with some icebreaker activites to build friendship and connection, but no stereotypical, topical, awkward stuff. I’d love it if some of you remained friends after you left me, and I will facilitate building lasting connections. :) Photo Samples coming soon. Monday, November 2nd, 6-8 pm, Session 1: 1” and 2” Buttons and magnets (make 6+ each using collage, watercolor, or personal photos) GUEST COHOST: AFISHFORTHEO Monday, November 9th, 7-9 pm, Session 2: on Nov 9th— start time will be 7 pm due to a private event prior.) Mini block printing (make five 1” x 2” stamps and one 2×3” stamp, then stamp tradeable and giftable mini prints, cards, bookmarks, and more) Monday, November 16th, 6-8 pm, Session 3: USB “Magic Charm” Lantern Monday, November 23rd, 6-8 pm, Session 4: Beaded crystal suncatcher dangles (make as many as you want in session) Monday, November 30th, 6-8 pm, Session 5: Poetry writing session, draft a few poems with guided inspiration prompts, then take turns typing on the typewriter and framing them Monday, December 7th, 6-8 pm, Session 6: Framed multimedia trinket bricolage— arrange colorful and nostalgic trinkets in a frame, adding accents of sparkle, paint, etc to taste. GUEST COHOST: ISPYJUNK

Strengthen your household readiness through the "Be 2 Weeks Ready" program, presented by PrepLO. Learn how to prepare for disasters like earthquakes, storms, and wildfires. This essential training includes hands-on CPR/AED instruction provided directly by the Lake Oswego Fire Department (LOFD).

Fee: FREE (Pre-registration is required)

Thursday, September 10 • 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Course ID: 33840 • Register Online

Thursday, December 10 • 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Course ID: 33841 • Register Online

Saturday, September 5 • 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 33842 • Register Online

Saturday, December 5 • 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 33844 • Register Online

Tuesday, October 20 • 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 35016
Fee: FREE

Join clinical experts from Providence Health & Services to learn how age-related changes in balance, physical strength, and general medical health affect daily mobility. Discover concrete ways to minimize risks by modifying everyday medications, assessing footwear choice, and addressing common home environment hazards. Includes a short, participatory tai chi balance demonstration.

Presented by: Providence Health Leaders
Register Online

Thursdays, October 22 – November 12 • 12–1:30 p.m.
Course ID: 34887
Fee: Resident $36 / Non-Resident $54 (4-week course)

This structural, evidence-based series features weekly presentations by Providence clinical directors focused on optimizing physiological health as you age. Learn actionable, science-backed lifestyle habits designed to promote everyday brain fitness, strengthen emotional resilience, and maximize lifetime physical vitality rooted in the latest senior medical research.

Presented by: Providence Clinical Directors
Register Online

Tuesday, November 3 • 10–11:30 a.m.
Course ID: 34823
Fee: FREE

Join representatives from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for an invaluable QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training session. Participants will learn how to recognize early situational warning signs, ask supportive, compassionate direct questions, and safely guide neighbors, friends, and family toward life-saving community crisis resources.

Presented by: NAMI NW Advisors
Register Online

Tuesdays • 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Fee: Resident $20 / Non-Resident $25 per multi-week section

Elevate your card game in a supportive, structured environment! Curated for enthusiasts who possess standard background play experience, this community class weaves short, technical lessons with real-time coached table play. Refine card play execution, clarify bidding options on the fly, and share the friendly table camaraderie of fellow players.

Section A (Sept 8 – Oct 27): Course ID: 35364 • Register Online
Section B (Nov 3 – Dec 15): Course ID: 35365 • Register Online

Thursday, October 29 • 2–4 p.m.
Course ID: 35370
Fee: FREE

Learn how to optimize your living space to be safer, energy-efficient, and structurally accessible using public county support systems. Experienced case managers from Clackamas County will detail application criteria for free residential weatherization upgrades, low-cost deferred maintenance home improvement loans, and localized senior accessibility renovation grants.

Presented by: Clackamas County Program Coordinators
Register Online

• Life’s Final Chapter Series (May/June): A thoughtful practical exploration covering end-of-life logistics, medical directives, and grief support, facilitated alongside Death Doulas NW and End of Life Choices Oregon.
• Estrangement & Reunion Workshops (May/June): Multi-session mental health family guidance led by the licensed marriage and family therapists of Family Ties Counseling Center.
• Caregiver Support & Resilience Intensives (May/June): Specialized, four-hour professional workshops covering dementia communication habits and chronic caregiver burnout prevention, led by Dr. Andrea Holzner.
• Healthy Legs as You Age (May 6): A cardiovascular educational forum addressing vein health, modern treatment options, and leg circulation, led by Dr. Toshio Nagamoto of Inovia Vein.
• Estate Planning Basics (May 20): A legal resource class reviewing wills, asset protection vehicles, and common probate filing pitfalls, presented by Michael Rose, Attorney at Rose Elder Law.
• Paying for Long-Term Care (June 10): A community seminar providing legal guidance on qualifying for public Medicaid benefits and managing long-term institutional residential costs, presented by Rose Elder Law.

Birds are incredible and have adapted to survive in dynamic & changing environments. Every species has unique traits and sometimes quite specialized strategies. Using the backdrop of seasonal changes at Hoyt Arboretum, Dr. Kiki Sanford will facilitate discovery of the many ways it is connected to its avian inhabitants. Winter classes will center on adaptations for surviving intense seasonal conditions. Spring brings the frenzy of breeding season. Summer includes juvenile development and the onset of the next annual cycle. And, Autumn classes will focus on the fall migration. Each seasonal class will highlight the various birds present in the Arboretum, and include observation & discussion of specific aspects of how their brains & bodies lead to certain behaviors useful in the Hoyt habitats. Short informal lectures and group discussions will be followed by exploratory bird-watching hikes to observe these processes in action. Please register through the Hoyt Arboretum website. — 40

Questions? Email: [email protected]

Since 2002, Clark County families have met for a fun run together on Thanksgiving morning. As the run grew in popularity, the families decided to organize the event and use the opportunity to give back to the community. Now, 1,250 racers join us each year and 100% of the proceeds benefit Clark County Food Bank, which provide the resources for roughly 140,000 meals every Thanksgiving!

Turkey Trot 2025 will be at Salmon Creek Trail, with both races starting at Klineline Pond at 9 am on Thanksgiving morning! The course follows a flat, mostly paved trail that weaves between areas of forest and open meadows. The course will be clearly marked with directions and exact mile markers for both the 5k and 10k races. Water stations will be at the start/finish line, as well as the 10k turnaround. There will also be a first aid station located at the start/finish line.

All registered racers receive timing chips in their race packets, which will electronically track the racer’s time. Chips are then attached to the outermost layer of clothing above the waist. This method ensures accurate timing and creates an easy, quick way for race officials to post times and rankings online following the event.

Turkey Trot has two race day options: a 5k walk/run and a 10k run. Both races begin at 9:00 am on Thanksgiving morning, and take place along the same course. There will usually be around a 5 minute delay between the start of the 10k and 5k races. All age groups are welcome and encouraged to participate! Food (bagels, donuts, bananas, etc.) and coffee will be provided the morning of the race. Special prizes will also be handed out to racers that come dressed in crazy, fun, or Thanksgiving themed costumes!

Spanish Language & Culture in Northern Spain

What can Asturias teach us about Spain’s history, culture, and identity?

Join us for an immersive summer program in Oviedo, Spain, exploring the rich history, art, literature, and contemporary culture of Asturias. Through cultural experiences, course discussions, and exploration of northern Spain, you’ll examine how Spanish identity has evolved from pre-Roman times to today.

Along the way, you’ll strengthen your Spanish language skills, building fluency, vocabulary, writing, and confidence while engaging with authentic Spanish-language materials and everyday life in Spain.

Designed for students ready to go beyond the typical study abroad experience, this program is ideal for students interested in Spanish language, literature, history, art, culture, and international studies.

Program Dates: June 27–July 30, 2027
Course: SPAN 301, 302, 303 (12 credits)
Prerequisite: SPAN 203 or equivalent proficiency

View Program Details

Growing older isn’t just about adding years; it’s about discovering new ways to find meaning, connection, and joy. Join a welcoming community of adults 60+ for a six-week journey of reflection, conversation, and personal growth. Together, we’ll explore this stage of life with resilience, purpose, and wisdom.

​Through guided conversations, mindfulness practices, journaling, and shared experiences, you’ll gain practical tools and fresh perspectives for navigating life’s transitions. Together, we’ll explore topics such as embracing change, cultivating meaningful relationships, enhancing well-being, and creating a lasting legacy.

​Based on the book Wise Aging: Living with Joy, Resilience, and Spirit by Rabbi Rachel Cowan and Dr. Linda Thal, this series uses the book as a guide for discussion and reflection.

Because each session builds on the last, participants are asked to commit to attending all six weeks, allowing the group to develop trust, meaningful connections, and rich conversations together.

​The series is facilitated by Laura Ziegler, an experienced trainer and group facilitator who is passionate about helping older adults embrace the opportunities and transitions of the Third Act.

​This series is free to attend, but registration is required. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Participants are asked to purchase a copy of the Wise Aging book prior to the first session. If the cost of the book is a barrier, please let us know — we’re happy to provide a copy.

Journalism isn’t only for journalists. The practice involves skills that are useful to any and all writers across genres and levels of experience. At its core, reporting is the process of asking questions and seeking answers, which is something all writers do in one form or another. In addition to interviews, research is a valuable tool for any writer to deepen and expand their understanding of a chosen subject and fact-checking can heighten the rigor and truth of any work, even the most fantastical fiction.

As part of their training, journalists learn how to distill a story down to its core components, make it legible to a wide audience, and structure information to maximize impact. These are skills and practices that all writers can benefit from. Whether there’s a journalist character in your novel, a historical component to your memoir, a narrative aspect to your academic work, or a poem that provides a glimpse into an unknown world, this class will provide a basic understanding of journalism that any writer can apply to any project.

Course outcomes:
● Writers are introduced to the fundamentals of reporting, research, writing, editing and fact-checking
● Writers explore how to incorporate these skills into their writing practice
● Writers gain confidence applying these skills in their own projects, outside of the classroom

Class schedule:
Week 1: The Journalist Mindset—Week 1 provides an overarching introduction to the key concepts of journalism and how it can be applied to any writing project. Concepts include the “5 Ws + H” and newsworthiness.

Week 2: Reporting and Research—Students will learn interview techniques; discuss other ways to access information, like court documents, public records and archives; and review best practices for research, like relying on primary source documents and vetting journal articles.

Week 3: Writing & Structure—How to write and structure a basic news story, with a discussion of how those core principles (like the inverted pyramid) can apply to any writing project. It will also address how to approach writing a feature story, which requires using information to build scenes and character development.

Week 4: Ethics & Accuracy—How to fact-check and why it matters. Students will learn what goes into fact-checking and how to ensure that the information they have gathered is accurate. They will also learn core ethical principles of journalism, such as objectivity, independence, as well as how to handle attribution (on vs off the record) and how to handle sources requesting anonymity or who are not telling the truth.

Week 5: Organization and Pitching. In this session, students will get tips on how to keep all their reporting notes and material organized to help streamline the writing, editing and fact-checking process. The class will also cover the basics and best practices of pitching so students feel empowered to send their ideas out into the world.

Week 6: Workshop. The final class will be dedicated to discussing each student’s ideas and providing collective guidance and feedback. Whether it’s a question about a story’s angle or a full-fledged pitch, this session will be a forum for everyone to take their journalistic aspirations to the next level, incorporating what they’ve learned over the past five weeks.

Access Program
We want our writing classes and seminars to be accessible to everyone, regardless of income and background. We understand that our tuition structure can present obstacles for some people. Our Access Program offers writing class and seminar tuitions at a reduced rate. Most writing classes have at least one access spot available.

Please apply here for access rate tuition. Contact Susan Moore at [email protected] if you have questions.

Liaison position
Every in-person class and seminar at Literary Arts has one liaison position. Liaisons perform specific duties for each class meeting. If you are a liaison for a class or seminar, the full amount of your tuition is covered by Literary Arts.

Apply here for the liaison position.

Vampire Unicorns, 3510 N.E. Third Ave., Camas, will offer a Rose Salves Workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5. Students will explore folklore surrounding roses and their gentle herbal properties, then create a rose petal salve to soothe the skin and spirit. The cost is $45. Register at vampireunicorns.xyz.

Designed for adults with little to no prior knowledge of English. This class focuses on the English alphabet, basic phonics, numbers and survival vocabulary. Preparing students for Beginner ESL Class.
No class on September 16 or November 11.

Portland Running Company leads a long run every Sunday morning departing from our location at 2258 NW Raleigh St. in Portland.

We decide the route(s) on t

Weekly run club / running club group run. Published recurring schedule. Check the organizer for holiday exceptions, cancellations, and participation requirements.

Metropolitan Performing Arts will offer K-Pop Dance Workshops on Nov. 8, Dec. 6 and Jan. 17, taught by Caitlin Bui. From 1:30-3 p.m. Nov. 8, kids 12-18 will learn “Iconic by Mistake” by Katseye, Illit and Le Serrafim. From 1:30-3 p.m. Dec. 6, kids 12-18 will learn “The Feels.” The Jan. 17 class from 3:30-5 p.m. is for kids ages 8-12. Each class is $25.

One of our professional Dungeon Masters (DMs) will guide your adventurer as they create their own character, collaborate with their party, and save the day!

Players with all levels of experience are welcome.

When the nation and culture you grew up in and love have been taken over by a war-waging fascist dictatorship, how do you come to understand the nature and causes of what has happened? Perhaps you can do this only after you fled for your life. How then would you look at the ruins left inside yourself? This was the situation faced by one of the most sophisticated and profound thinkers of the twentieth century, Theodor Adorno (1903–1969), when he found himself living in Los Angeles during World War II after escaping from Nazi Germany.

In this Delve we will study Adorno’s Minima Moralia: Reflections from Damaged Life—the amazing book he wrote between 1944 and 1949 to explore his feelings about the calamitous situation of a world facing despotism. We will read the entire book and focus on selected essays. The book is made up of 153 very short essays, ranging from 1-3 pages. The essays focus his philosophical genius on deeply observed and subtle aspects of ourselves that contribute to or resist the ways in which we are socialized that result in alienation, loss of will and agency, and unfulfillment. He explores consumer culture, the arts, and politics along with his recollections of the rise of fascism. Each essay is a deep and intricate knot of feelings and ideas, presented by a contemplative, perseverant, unblinking thinker of the highest order Although written in grief, Adorno always seeks hope by confronting, with maximum honesty and penetration, the deep roots of the problems human society faces. Minima Moralia is a monument to the sensitive study of culture and our psyches amidst disaster trauma. Adorno’s brilliant and strong style make this book a pleasure to think with. In this Delve we will read the entire book and focus on selected entries.

Text:
Minima Moralia: Reflections from Damaged Life<, Theodor Adorno, translator E. F. N. Jephcott (Verso)

Access Program
We want our writing classes and seminars to be accessible to everyone, regardless of income and background. We understand that our tuition structure can present obstacles for some people. Our Access Program offers writing class and seminar tuitions at a reduced rate. Most writing classes have at least one access spot available.

Please apply here for access rate tuition. Contact Susan Moore at [email protected] if you have questions.

Liaison position
Every in-person class and seminar at Literary Arts has one liaison position. Liaisons perform specific duties for each class meeting. If you are a liaison for a class or seminar, the full amount of your tuition is covered by Literary Arts.

Apply here for the liaison position.

<p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Dates</strong>: Wednesdays: 11/4, 11/11, 11/18</p><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Time</strong>: 5:30 - 8:30 PM</p><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Location</strong>: Bittersweet Studios, 1515 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217</p><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">This is an abbreviated version of our six week Intro series that concentrates on giving students the basics of ceramics wheel throwing and hand-building without the time commitment of a 6 week course.</p><ul data-rte-list=\"default\"><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Week 1: Wheel Throwing Basics</strong><br />Learn the fundamentals of working on the pottery wheel, including centering clay, pulling walls, and forming simple vessels. Keep up to two wheel thrown pieces that we will trim for you.</p></li><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Week 2: Hand-building Techniques</strong><br />Explore coil, slab, and pinch methods to build forms by hand—great for sculptural or functional pieces.</p></li><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Week 3: Glazing & Finishing</strong><br />Apply underglaze and glaze to your bisqued pieces, experiment with surface decoration, and prepare your work for final firing. Students can fire up to 4 glazed pieces to keep.</p></li></ul><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">Due to the sequential nature of this series, we cannot offer make-up classes. Please plan on attending every class session. For the duration of the class series, students have access to the studio during Open Studio Hours to work on their pieces.</p><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">Our Open Studio Hours are:</p><ul data-rte-list=\"default\"><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">Thursdays 3-6 PM</p></li><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">Fridays 5-8 PM</p></li><li><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\">Saturdays 2-5PM</p></li></ul><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Ages: </strong>18+ only.</p><p style=\"white-space:pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"><strong>Cancellation/refund policy: </strong>Refunds are available with 10 days’ notice before the first class date. You can choose between store credit for the full amount, or a refund to your card, minus a $30 processing fee per student. 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Do you know how to remove apps? What to do if your phone memory is full? How to improve battery life? Learn these skills and more for your Apple, Android, or Microsoft devices in a focused, 1:1 session with volunteers from SeniorTechPals, and bring your phone or tablet.

Registration strongly encouraged, but drop-ins can wait to receive help.

Create engaging theatrical scenes using movement, creativity, and teamwork to build stage skills and confidence. Students will explore basic theatre elements and collaborate to create a short performance. No prior experience is required.

Ages: At least 6 but less than 12

Openings: 0

This two-session class explores the foundations of intentional ritual, sacred space, and spell design. Participants will consider how to create rituals and spells that are personally meaningful, clear, aligned, and ethically grounded, while building confidence in their magical practice. Attendees must be at least 13, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

This TKO Saw School training event is for volunteers, professionals, and agency staff who are looking to receive an initial crosscut saw certification, recertification, or advancement in certification to the B level. We will be utilizing the new USFS Saw Training curriculum, “Developing Thinking Sawyers”.

Initial Crosscut Saw Bucking Certification (3 days): You must be at least 16 years old to attend. Every saw operator must be certified to ensure safe and quality work. This session is for those who do not have a USFS saw certification card or those who are pursuing advancement in their current certification. The course will cover key safety procedures and best practices for clearing trails effectively in challenging and potentially hazardous situations. Day one is a 7-8 hr classroom (PowerPoint and video instruction) with possible field instruction depending on the weather conditions. Day two is a 1-2 hr review followed by 4-6 hrs of field practice. Day three will be 6-8 hrs of field evaluations. Candidates typically receive an “A” level certification. Candidates who demonstrate extensive skill and leadership with considerable hands-on saw experience may receive “B” level certification.

**A current First Aid and CPR certification is required to attend the field portions of this event, and for saw certifications to be valid. Per Forest Service policy, this certification must involve an in-person component and is not valid if performed entirely online.**TKO staff, volunteers, professionals, and USFS staff cannot use crosscut saws or chainsaws unless they hold a recognized and valid sawyer certification, First Aid, and CPR card. You can enter your current or expired First Aid/CPR certification by clicking on this link. First Aid/CPR Certification Record.

American Red Cross CPR/First Aid – find a class

First Aid CPR Training | Oregon Trails

Note: Please bring work gloves, safety glasses, and hard hats. Some of these PPE items can be provided by TKO staff if needed. Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions.

Potential cancellation: We will not work in the field if the weather is not safe for our team.

Directions and how to receive important information about this event: Event details, including directions and meeting information, will be emailed to you 48 hours before the event. If you’ve previously unsubscribed from Eventbrite emails, your inbox might block this message. To ensure you receive our event details, login to Eventbrite, visit Account Settings, and check the box for “Important reminders for my next event.”

What to bring:

• Food for all three days of the event
• Plenty of water for all three days of the event
• Snacks
• Gloves, safety glasses, hard hat
• Hand sanitizer
• Pack to carry all your gear on the trail

What to wear:

• Boots (Please wear something sturdy that will protect your toes from sharp tools. Boots must cover your ankles. No tennis shoes allowed.)
• Work gloves
• A long-sleeved shirt is a requirement
• Long pants are required
• Face Mask (optional for indoor class, optional for outdoors)
• Rain gear as appropriate for the weather

Questions?

Please contact Vito Perrone at [email protected]

Send me an email if you want to join our waitlist for this workshop.

Additional Information:

Check out the TK-U Saw School page for more info.

Saws That Sing. A guide to using crosscut saw.

One moving part: The Forest Service Ax Manual

Event details:

Detailed event information, including directions to the meeting location, will be provided to registrants via email 48 hours prior to the event. If you’re volunteering for the first time, read this blog by a volunteer to know what to expect at your first trail party.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: TKO recognizes that the trails we work on travel through the traditional lands of many Indigenous tribes and communities. We are the most recent in a long line of stewards to this land, and it is our responsibility to do so with humility and respect. We are grateful to these tribes and their descendants for being the original and continuing stewards of these spaces, and encourage everyone to go beyond a land acknowledgment by supporting Indigenous communities and organizations in your area.

EQUITY & INCLUSION: TKO seeks to make Oregon’s trails a place where people can go to connect with nature and one another. Not everyone feels safe or welcome in the outdoors, and we commit to being part of the solution to this problem and to enact change. Conduct, speech, or expressions that target any individual or group will not be tolerated by TKO.

PERSONAL SAFETY: Your physical and emotional safety is our number one priority. If a person’s actions or comments make you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, you may: interrupt directly, talk with a TKO leader, and/or inform TKO staff via the anonymous post-event survey.

While TKO no longer requires masking/vaccination for our events, we do support those who choose to mask for their own safety. We ask participants to respect the health of folks who wear masks by distancing or wearing a mask while in close proximity.

Do you know a young strategist, who's itching to learn the arcane arts? Look no further than Magic Academy - a series of supervised, sealed Magic: The Gathering leagues for kids ages 10-17.

One of our counselors will guide Planeswalkers as they collect cards and build decks that can summon creatures and create mystical effects, all while learning what it means to be a good sport.

Players with all levels of experience are welcome.

DevonWood will once again host the USDF/FEI Youth Clinic Series in Sherwood, Oregon, with clinician Sabine Schut-Kery. Applications will be available online. The series receives funding support from The Dressage Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation, and The Dressage Foundation provides grant opportunities for these clinics.

All are welcome for this fun community run and walking group, held on the first Saturday of every month. This is a free community group, so anyone can join the runners or walkers at no cost. It's a great Milwaukie Running Club group. The sauna social after the run is offered at half price: just $14.50. Capacity is limited to the first 20 sign-ups, so you are encouraged to sign up in advance.

The light pace is great for beginners, and set by the group. If a few people want to go slower or faster, the group will split into different-paced pods. Simply show up just before 8 a.m., run or walk for about an hour, then enjoy sauna time together at half price afterward.

Soak up that steam and the cold contrast for muscle recovery, improved circulation and enhanced running performance. Meet rain or shine and always make sure everyone is feeling safe and supported. Keep up that momentum toward your 2026 goals with this guided route — run or walk.

Led by Portland native Justine @runwithms

Learn about the process of becoming a citizen. Prepare for your citizenship interview. Study United States history and government for the examination. Classes are taught in English.

Registration information call 503.379.1598, ext 105, or email [email protected]

Learn how to create brick stitch & fringe style beaded earrings using seed beads, thread and a beading needle. Natalie Mitchell will briefly discuss the history of seed beads in the Native American community and their uses in regalia, jewelry and art. Registration required and opens October 18. Both sessions are required, please be able to attend 11/8 and 11/15.

Set your business up for success! Learn how financial planning, banking, and funding can help you reach your goals in this workshop presented by InRoads Credit Union.

Andrea’s Spanish School will offer Online Spanish Conversation Classes, Levels I and II, from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4 and Nov. 11 via Zoom. Practice speaking Spanish with a native speaker in a small group of four to seven students. Sessions are built around real talk, not grammar drills. There is no homework and no tests. The cost is $25 per session. Sign up at learnspanishvancouver.com.

Discover West Coast Swing, a modern partner dance set to a range of music styles, with smooth movement and room for varied expression. New dancers are welcome to begin on the first Monday of the month, and the beginner series covers foundational steps, connection, and technique through three self-contained modules. Classes are also offered for intermediate and advanced dancers, with sessions focused on technique and more challenging patterns. The evening includes a social dance and practica where participants can dance, socialize, practice, and ask instructors questions.

Join us in the Community Room on Wednesdays at 10:15 for stories, songs, and movement activities followed by a short playtime. Due to limited capacity, registration is encouraged for the 5-week session, and drop-ins will be admitted as space allows.18 seats available for children age 0-5.

Slöyd is a historical Scandinavian method of education that used woodworking to develop character in children. Still utilized today in some of the highest performing schools around the globe, key elements of the original Theory of Educational Sloyd by Otto Salomon were replicated for these classes.

Explore creativity, history, and connection through a hands-on program for adults. Participants will learn about a variety of quilting traditions, then use interlocking bricks to create their own unique compositions. This is a six-class series, and participants will attend all six classes. Classes meet Mondays from 1:30–3:00 p.m.: October 5, 12, and 19; no class October 26; then November 2, 9, and 16. Call 503-655-8540 to register or join the wait list.

While it’s relatively straightforward to create a gratitude list of positive aspects of our lives, how do we cultivate gratitude for the less pleasant ones? Is it truly important, beneficial, or even feasible. Join us for a SoulCollage workshop where we’ll create cards and delve into the theme of the month.

Prompt is an 8-week writing group full of freewriting, listening, and strengths-based feedback, hosted behind-the-scenes at Powell’s City of Books. With accountability and community built in — as well as a huge selection of books for inspiration — you’ll be sure to come away with tons of new ideas.

This 5k race takes you on a holiday-themed journey through the lights of the Sunshine Division Winter Wonderland. The perfect way to kick off Thanksgiving weekend. Like thousands of others, make the HTC Turkey Trot an annual tradition with your family and friends.

There will be 2 Family 5K waves, 1 Competitive 5K wave and 2 Kids Fun Run waves. Please register for your preferred start time.

FREE group series designed for anyone interested in strengthening their recovery and learning new ways of relating to their nervous system

Introducing “30 for 30” - A Somatic Series for Recovery

A FREE community workshop series, led by a certified peer specialist and coach, that combines 30-minutes of guided grounding techniques and 30-minutes of collaborative processing.

Using body-oriented tools and cues, we'll build coping skills that help keep us grounded and connected--to our physical bodies and one another--as we navigate short- and long-term recovery.

At A Glance: Our 6-Week Group Agenda

● Week 1 Focus: Calming the Storm (Autonomic Regulation & 4-7-8 Oxygen Regulator)

● Week 2 Focus: Navigating the Void (Dopamine Baseline Reset & Thought Labeling)

● Week 3 Focus: Holding the Boundary (Protecting Internal Peace & Somatic Body Scan)

● Week 4 Focus: The Taper (The Art of Stillness & 4-4-4-4 Box Breathing)

● Week 5 Focus: Processing the Weight (Somatic Grief Work & Heart/Shoulder Grounding)

● Week 6 Focus: The Sovereign Anchor (Stepping Into Your Expert Chapter & Open Awareness)

Workshop agenda is subject to change at the facilitator's discretion.

Everyone is welcome. This offering is 100% cost-free. We hope you'll join us at TRG-Hillsboro.

Attendance at all six workshops is encouraged to get the most from this offering.

For questions about this group, please contact Josh C. at [email protected]

For proficient learners interested in advanced grammar and vocabulary in practical exercises.

Do you know a young strategist, who's itching to learn the arcane arts? Look no further than Magic Academy - a series of supervised, sealed Magic: The Gathering leagues for kids ages 10-17.

One of our counselors will guide Planeswalkers as they collect cards and build decks that can summon creatures and create mystical effects, all while learning what it means to be a good sport.

Players with all levels of experience are welcome.

Clark County Green Neighbors will host “Low Waste Holiday: Save Money, Make Memories,” a kid-friendly workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Waste Connections of Washington 9411 NE 94th Ave, Vancouver. This workshop shares simple ways to cut holiday waste while shifting the focus from buying “stuff” to creating experiences, family traditions, and lasting memories. Get low‑waste decorating ideas, experience‑based gift alternatives and tips for planning holiday meals and managing seasonal leftovers. Then families can make upcycled ornaments, bookmarks and gift tags from repurposed vinyl records and other reclaimed supplies.

Gain insight into basics of attack, defense, goal tending & ball handling. Focus on techniques, tactics & physical fitness in a safe environment. Build strength in an environment of sportsmanship & fair play. Develop outstanding dribbling skills & exceptional field vision & awareness. You will see dramatic improvement!

Ages: At least 6 but less than 10

Openings: 0

Backbeat Music Academy is a year-round music school in West Portland.

Join local artist Elizabeth Higgins for weekly workshops focused on creative expression, mindfulness, and supportive community connection. Designed as a sanctuary from daily stressors, these sessions emphasize the joyful process of making art rather than the pressure of a finished product. Perfect for all skill levels, from absolute beginners to experienced creators looking to refresh their practice. All premium studio materials are included in the tuition fee.

Class Times: 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. on Mondays
Tuition per Session: Resident $79 / Non-Resident $119 (Materials included)

Slow down and see the world around you with fresh eyes. This four-week session uses the quiet patterns of the natural world to anchor your attention in the present moment. Through gentle, guided, and meditative sketching exercises, you will learn to quiet a busy mind and relieve daily stress. Elizabeth will introduce accessible mark-making techniques that make sketching feel approachable, helping you overcome the fear of the blank page and establish a sustainable, deeply personal daily sketchbook practice.

Topics Covered:

• Using rhythmic, repetitive drawing patterns found in leaves, seed pods, and stones to induce a meditative flow state
• Contemplative "blind contour" and gesture sketching to bypass the inner critic and build confidence
• Practical techniques for starting, organizing, and maintaining a regular, stress-free sketchbook habit at home

Dates: Mondays, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, & 10/26
Event Code: 34836

Experience the liberating and playful art of paper collage. By cutting, tearing, and arranging everyday found papers, hand-painted fragments, and text, you will bypass the technical anxieties of drawing and jump straight into raw visual storytelling. This course balances mindful, intuitive play with fundamental design concepts. While enjoying a relaxed studio environment, you will discover how to arrange bold abstract artwork that expresses your inner landscape.

Topics Covered:

• Intuitive paper tearing and layer arrangement to build textures without overthinking your choices
• Introduction to foundational color theory, contrasting palettes, and visual balance in abstract design
• Mindful sharing and collaborative community exercises designed to inspire deep connection with fellow classmates

Dates: Mondays, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, & 11/23
Event Code: 34837

About the Instructor:
Elizabeth M. Higgins is a Portland‑area teaching artist whose work centers on creativity, nature, and mindfulness. She holds a 100‑hour certification in eco-therapy and brings a gentle, encouraging approach to her watercolor and nature-journaling classes, inspiring students of all ages to explore art joyfully. Her vibrant work is shown at her Hillsboro studio and Grey Raven Gallery in Beaverton.

Website: Elizabeth M. Higgins — https://elizabethmhiggins.com/

The following previous topics from this season are now complete. Please contact the registration program desk if you would like to be notified when these seasonal topics return to the calendar.

Held weekly across April and May 2026, this foundational workshop invited beginners and nature lovers to connect deeply with seasonal shifts. Utilizing the principles of eco-therapy, students ventured into outdoor environments to observe regional flora and fauna firsthand. Under Elizabeth's gentle guidance, participants learned to blend delicate watercolor washes with organic line work to document the textures, shifting light, and quiet rhythms of the Pacific Northwest springtime landscape.

Ballroom Dance Vancouver will host Sunday Ballroom and Latin Group Classes from 4-6 p.m. Sundays at Dance Fusion/Northwest Classical Ballet, 14511 N.E. 10th Ave., Vancouver. Beginning classes are 4-5 p.m. and advanced classes are 5-6 p.m. The cost is $15 for ages 12 and older. Learn more at ballroomdancevancouver.com, by emailing [email protected] or calling 503-789-3023.