South Metro

Jeff VanderMeer's internationally bestselling, critically acclaimed Southern Reach series has been translated into over 37 languages. The first novel, Annihilation, won the Nebula and Shirley Jackson awards, and was made into a movie by Alex Garland in 2018. Called "the weird Thoreau" by The New Yorker, VanderMeer’s nonfiction has appeared in Time, The Nation, the Los Angeles Times, and Esquire, among other publications.

A.L. Goldfuss writes speculative fiction which reviewers have called “rich,” “intense,” “complex,” and “rather grim.” Recent work has won the Brave New Weird award and appeared in The Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy. Goldfuss lives in the Pacific Northwest with stacks of tea and carnivorous plants.

The Fall Author Series is co-sponsored by Spoke & Word Books. Special thanks to the Friends of the Ledding Library for providing the funding that makes this program possible.

Tuesday, July 21st: Both Tasting Room locations will be closing at 3pm. Gather at the pFriem Milwaukie Tasting Room for an evening of hand building mugs and beverages. Each attendee will build a mug from scratch and apply glaze, guided by Alison. The ticket price includes one drink, but stick around for dinner from pFriem's delicious kitchen. This is great for a date night or larger group. Cost includes all materials and firing. Mugs ready to be picked up 3 weeks later at Makerspace Sellwood. We use cookies on our site to give you the best experience. To continue using our site, please accept cookies.

Seed Cleaning & Seed Saving Demonstration and Workshop with Kay Everts

Learn how to use seed screens and a winnowing fan to clean a variety of seeds. Discover simple, effective seed-saving techniques and try them yourself at our hands-on seed cleaning station.

Bring seeds from your own garden, or clean some of ours! Now is a good time, between rain showers, to go through your garden and look for seed heads. Bring them indoors to dry, then bring them to the class to save the seeds! Take them home or donate them to the seed library!

Presented and funded by the Friends of the Oregon City Public Library.

Join us for an informative economic update on the current business climate. Damon Runberg is the Senior Economist at Business Oregon, the State of Oregon's economic development agency. He supports the statewide economic development goals by tracking and analyzing economic indicators critical to Oregon's workers and businesses. He also evaluates the effectiveness of Oregon's economic development strategies and incentives. Prior to working with Business Oregon Damon was a Regional Labor Economist with the Oregon Employment Department for nearly 13 years.

Join Mary Miller Doyle and friends for a presentation of Wonder Is a Lovely Place to Be: 365 Days of Wit, Wisdom, and Irrepressible Imagination by Brian Doyle and Mary Miller Doyle. Drawing from both beloved and previously unpublished Brian Doyle works, this collection of essays, poems and sketches invites readers to notice holiness woven through ordinary, everyday moments.

Mary Miller Doyle and John and Cindy McPhee will read passages from Wonder is a Lovely Place to Be and retired Lake Oswego Public Library director Bill Baars will host. We'll also be serving apple and marionberry pie, Brian's favorite flavors.

Brian Doyle (1956-2017) was the author of many books, including the novels Mink River and The Plover; The Grail, his account of a year in a pinot noir vineyard in Oregon; and The Wet Engine, a memoir about his infant son’s heart surgery and the young doctor who saved his life. He edited Portland Magazine at the University of Portland.

This program is supported by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library. Participation is free, and no registration is required. Please note, seating is limited due to the size of the space. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.A livestream will be available.

Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact Alicia Yokoyama at 503-534-4228 or [email protected]

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Are you a reader, a writer, or a speaker looking to turn your passion into a career? Are you a creative person looking to transition to a new job within the arts? Join the Clackamas Arts Alliance and the Milwaukie Ledding Library for a panel discussion about Careers in Languages and the Literary Arts. Come prepared to consider yourself and your work habits, and bring your curiosity about your career options. Careers discussed will include fiction writing, ghostwriting, journalism, bookstore operations, institutional communications, and work as a literary agent.

ABOUT: The Clackamas Arts Alliance offers its Makers & Creative Artists Workshop series throughout the year. These workshops offer creative people a way to explore business potential and opportunities.

Questions? Contact [email protected]

WHEN: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 6:00 – 7:30pm

WHERE: Ledding Library of Milwaukie 10660 SE 21st Ave, Milwaukie, OR 97222. Parking is available in front of the library, as well as in two city-owned parking lots on Main Street opposite City Hall and the Historic City Hall. The venue is ADA accessible.

COST: Donation Suggested. We ask that participants make a donation of any size to the Clackamas Arts Alliance during your registration. Your support helps us continue offering workshops.

REGISTER HERE

Makers & Creative Artists Workshops are proudly sponsored by Columbia Bank Home Lending

Join us on Sunday, November 1st as we will be teaching the basics of Needle Felting! No previous experience necessary. We will have everything you need to create an adorable needle felted piece and colorful felt acorns perfect for holiday decorating!

We list the event as free, but we do kindly ask for a $5 donation to cover materials. However, no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Please join us at the starting time of 2pm as we will be beginning the class with instruction and there is not time to repeat everything again!

This event is hosted at a church but it is NOT a church event. There will be NO church talk; just a free community-building event that allows us all to take a break in our busy lives to do something that’s good for ourself and our community. We hope you will join us!

Samantha Swindler, a reporter with The Oregonian, will talk about the newspaper's history as it celebrates its 175th anniversary. The Oregonian was founded in 1850. It’s the oldest newspaper on the West Coast and one of Oregon’s oldest continuously operating businesses. The talk will include ties to Clackamas County, such as the race between Portland and Milwaukie to see who would get a newspaper first, and Oregonian editor Thomas Dryer’s infamous feuds with Asahel Bush, editor of the Oregon Statesman, originally founded in Oregon City.

Samantha Swindler joined The Oregonian in 2013 as editor of the weekly Forest Grove Leader suburban newspaper and has since been a columnist, video producer, editor and reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Before moving to the Portland area, she was publisher of the Tillamook Headlight-Herald on the Oregon Coast, and served as editor of rural newspapers in Texas and Kentucky. In 2010, she received the Tom and Pat Gish Award for courage, integrity and tenacity in rural journalism following a series of reports on corruption within an East Kentucky sheriff’s department. She currently covers news and features from Oregon City and other parts of Clackamas County, where she also lives.

As autumn settles more deeply into the land, join a cozy evening at ChamBurn Farm in Oregon City, just 20 minutes south of Portland. Begin with a short tour of the beautifully designed farm, then warm up with hot cider and a seasonal snack provided by chef Jim of ChamBurn Farm.

Under a large covered outdoor patio complete with a fire burning in the fireplace, Angela of Breathe Yoga will open the evening's practice with a grounding, inviting you to settle into your body, connect with the earth beneath you, and arrive fully in the moment. Then, Gabrielle of Hearthsounds Sound Healing will guide you into a 75-minute immersive sound bath. Singing bowls, gong, chimes, and other instruments will surround you in layers of sound and vibration, blending with the natural sounds of the farm: the crackle of the fire, the rustling of the evening air, and the occasional call of an animal.

November invites one to slow down. The harvest has been gathered, the landscape is changing, and nature is gradually becoming quieter. This evening is an opportunity to follow that rhythm, settle into stillness, and simply receive.

In March of 1977, Milwaukie had our own "madness" experience.

With no warning at all, Milwaukie’s HS Boys Basketball team won two Play-In games to qualify for the AAA State Tournament. The basketball play was earnest, but not extraordinary. The FAN support from the school and the community was amazing and fueled the dark horse ride.

We invite any and all who wish to revive the energy of high school basketball showdowns to a special pop-up event!

On Tuesday, November 10, The Riff on Main Street welcomes Ken Yarnell, a key member of the Medford Black Tornado team that derailed Milwaukie’s trip at the ball in the round of eight.

Ken recently published Coaching Against Champions, which draws from his long, highly respected career as a coach. He’ll tip things off by sharing a handful of stories that recapture the magic every community knows as Oregon HS Basketball.

Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Tip Off: 5:00 PM
Final Buzzer: 7:00 PM

No-host Beverages and Light Snacks

Location:
The Riff in Milwaukie
10801 SE Main St., Milwaukie, OR 97222
(971) 206-8896

After the final buzzer at 7 PM, ALL are encouraged to explore the MANY amazing eats within easy dribbling distance!

Learn More

As the autumn days grow shorter and colder, it's time to replace our iced tea and frappuccino glasses with mugs of coffee, tea, hot cider, and hot cocoa. What better way to protect our tables than with these embroidered, layered felt mug rugs, shaped like the lovely autumn leaves that will soon cloak the trees and carpet the ground in mounds of brilliant color? They come together very quickly, making them a perfect hostess gift or stocking stuffers. You can also stuff these embroidered leaves and turn them into ornaments. All supplies are provided.

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.

Nights are getting longer, days are getting shorter, and it's time to brighten up your space with a colorful string of glowing beads. Ward off the winter doldrums with this uncomplicated, light-up craft! At our tween program, participants will make a 4.5 foot beaded garland with an assortment of pony beads and a battery powered string of LED lights. Keep for yourself or give as a gift!

Designed for 5th to 8th graders. This event is free, but registration is required, as the program is limited to ten participants. For more information, email [email protected] or contact the Information Desk at 503-697-6580.

Spooky season doesn’t end with Halloween! Join us for a ghost tour and investigation of the Stevens-Crawford House and a haunted history tour of the Ermatinger House. The Falls Distilling will also be joining us to serve up samples of their “spirits” and will have their gin products available to purchase. $45 More info and tickets at bit.ly/OCSaturdayNightSpirits

Settle in for a cozy fall evening of watercolor at Tumwater Vineyard.

Hayley Elmore of Halo Art and Design leads this two-hour class using Emily Lex’s watercolor workbook as a guide, sharing tips and techniques to help you build your skills. Every guest takes home a workbook to keep practicing.

Food and wine will be available for purchase, and wine club member benefits apply. Tickets required.

• Location: LO Adult Community Center
• Cost: Free for all participants
• Registration Required: Call (503) 635-3758
• Early registration is encouraged due to limited seating.

Uncover the transformative power of wonder and its tangible biological impacts. Dr. Lynne Shinto walks us through how intentional, everyday moments of awe physically reshape the neural architecture of the aging brain. Discover the fascinating science behind how experiencing wonder sparks fresh neural pathways, lowers cellular inflammation, and actively stimulates cognitive vitality to keep our minds sharp and resilient.

About the Instructor:
Dr. Lynne Shinto is a Professor of Neurology at OHSU, focusing on neurological health, brain longevity, and integrative medical approaches to cognitive well-being.

Course ID: 34834 – Free

Step onto the rugged, untamed frontier to uncover a vital yet frequently overlooked chapter of American heritage. Through meticulous historical research and vibrant archival illustrations, author Dale Hom brings the deeply impactful legacy of Chinese cowboys to life. Explore how these resilient individuals shaped the ranching industries and livestock traditions of the 19th-century American West despite structural and cultural hurdles.

About the Instructor:
Dale Hom is a dedicated author and researcher who specializes in unearthing and preserving marginalized histories and cultural narratives of the early American West.

Course ID: 34829 – Free

Unlock the profound linguistic history hidden within the early Pacific Northwest landscape. Dr. David Douglas Robertson guides us through a fascinating linguistic deep dive into Chinook Jargon, the historic trade language that blended Indigenous and European tongues. Learn how this unique hybrid form of communication served as a cultural bridge and vital economic lifeline that fundamentally shaped the early communities of the Willamette Valley.

About the Instructor:
Dr. David Douglas Robertson is an expert linguist and leading authority on Pacific Northwest languages, specializing in the historical preservation of regional dialects.

Course ID: 34830 – Free

Look behind the digital curtain of our hyper-connected lives. PSU Professor Dr. Christof Teuscher reveals the immense, often invisible environmental impact of the massive data centers and straining power grids that fuel our daily internet use and the current AI boom. This talk breaks down the physical resource realities of modern technology and offers practical frameworks for practicing sustainable digital stewardship in our personal lives.

About the Instructor:
Dr. Christof Teuscher is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at PSU, researching next-generation computing architectures and the intersection of technology and sustainability.

Course ID: 34892 – Free

• Diverse Course Offerings: Explore wide-ranging topics that stimulate curiosity and broaden understanding.
• Engaging Learning Environment: Lectures encourage thoughtful discussion and shared insights.
• Community Connection: Build relationships with fellow lifelong learners.
• Expert Instructors: Courses are taught by accomplished university scholars.
• Supports Cognitive Health & Well-Being: Lifelong learning promotes curiosity, connection, and mental vitality.

• Cost: Free for all participants
• Registration Required: Call (503) 635-3758
• Early registration is encouraged due to limited seating.

Explore recordings, resources, and summaries from previous Senior Scholar presentations:

• Who Tells the Story? (June 18, 2026)
  Presented by Dr. David G. Lewis, Oregon State University. Discover how Native histories are researched and reconstructed through federal archives. Highlights the importance of Indigenous perspectives and representation in reshaping historical narratives.
  OSU Faculty Profile | PSU Profile | NDN History Research Website
• The Global Rise of Authoritarianism (May 12, 2026)
  Presented by Dr. Lindsay J. Benstead, Portland State University. Discover the global forces shaping democracy today, including democratic backsliding, election interference, and the rise of authoritarian leaders worldwide.
  PSU Faculty Profile | Wilson Center Profile
• Social Media & Society (June 9, 2026)
  Presented by Donna Z. Davis, Ph.D., University of Oregon. Explore how social media has transformed relationships, civic life, and community, highlighting isolation, algorithm-driven polarization, and structural platform decline.
  UO Faculty Profile | Oregon Reality Lab
• CANCELLED - Protest in America (March 17, 2026)
  Presented by Dr. Patricia A. Schechter, Portland State University. An planned in-depth conversation about the history of protest movements, civic engagement, and social activism within the United States.
  PSU Faculty Profile

• Witches & Witch-Hunters: Fear and Power in History
  View Past Talk Summary
• Medical Gaslighting
  View Past Talk Summary
• The Epidemiology of Gun Violence
  View Past Talk Summary
• Deconstructing Deception: Understanding Conspiracy Theories
  View Past Talk Summary
• Walls that Speak: Murals and Street Art as Voices of Social Change
  View Past Talk Summary
• Family Estrangement in Modern Families
  View Past Talk Summary
• How A.I. is Shaping Our Future and the Ethical Implications
  View Past Talk Summary
• The Role of Immigration in Shaping Our Communities
  View Past Talk Summary
• The Science of Climate Change
  View Past Talk Summary

Join us for escorted day outings that combine neighborhood exploration with local dining in great company! Plan to arrive 15 minutes early as fees vary depending on the trip. Our Explorer Trips feature transportation, guided shopping in the neighborhood, and a group lunch. Foodie Adventures include a meal, gratuity, escort, and transportation from the ACC.

Spend the day exploring Northwest 23rd Avenue, often called “Trendy-third,” known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and charming historic streets.

Highlights include:

• Browsing fashionable boutiques and specialty shops.
• Exploring one of Portland’s most walkable shopping districts.
• Visiting local cafés and bakeries.
• Time to shop before gathering for lunch.

Date / Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Fri 8/7
Price: Res $50 / Non-Res $75
Destination Website: https://www.travelportland.com/neighborhoods/nob-hill/

Enjoy farm-fresh cuisine at Cornell Farm Café, located within the beautiful Cornell Farm Nursery in Portland’s West Hills.

Highlights include:

• Fresh seasonal dishes made with local ingredients.
• A relaxing garden and nursery setting.
• Time to browse plants, gifts, and garden décor.
• A peaceful dining outing surrounded by nature.

Date / Time: 11 a.m., Tue 8/18
Price: Res $37 / Non-Res $40
Destination Website: https://www.cornellfarms.com

Indulge in classic, slow-cooked comfort food and brunch favorites served in a warm, welcoming downtown setting. Chef Lisa Schroeder's menu refines traditional home cooking with classical techniques and scratch-made ingredients.

Highlights include:

• Famous scratch-made comfort staples like pot roast, chicken & dumplings, and tender biscuits.
• A cozy, decorated dining room in historic downtown Portland.
• Relaxed dining with meal, gratuity, and stress-free transportation included.

Date / Time: 11 a.m., Thu 9/17 (Tour #34881)
Price: Res $40 / Non-Res $45
Destination Website: https://www.mothersbistro.com/
Registration: Register Online

Savor scratch-made, European-inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine served in a vibrant neighborhood bistro located in Bethany Village.

Highlights include:

• Farm-to-table values featuring seasonal Northwest ingredients.
• An upscale yet relaxed European bistro atmosphere.
• A delicious multi-course lunch enjoyed in great community company.

Date / Time: 11 a.m., Thu 10/29 (Tour #34882)
Price: Res $40 / Non-Res $45
Destination Website: https://www.bethanystable.com/
Registration: Register Online

Enjoy hearty American breakfast and lunch classics in a relaxed, friendly environment in downtown Oregon City.

Highlights include:

• Superb specialty coffee, house-baked pastries, and hearty lunch plates.
• A warm, inviting gathering spot in historic Oregon City.
• Stress-free group dining with full escort, meal, and tip included.

Date / Time: 11 a.m., Tue 11/3 (Tour #34883)
Price: Res $40 / Non-Res $45
Destination Website: https://www.watershedcafeoc.com/
Registration: Register Online

Visit a charming local spot dishing out retro diner staples and morning comfort plates with a fresh, local twist.

Highlights include:

• Classic diner favorites served in a bright, welcoming environment.
• A unique community dining concept operated in partnership with Meals on Wheels People.
• Delightful comfort food and lively conversation across the river in Vancouver, WA.

Date / Time: 11 a.m., Thu 12/3 (Tour #34884)
Price: Res $40 / Non-Res $45
Destination Website: https://www.mowp.org/what-we-do/the-diner/
Registration: Register Online

Take a look at the wonderful neighborhood dining and shopping trips we've enjoyed earlier this year! These programs are currently concluded.

• West Side Thrift Adventure (3/19): A thrift hunter's dream tour visiting Value Village, Curiosities Vintage, and Sam's Attic followed by a group score-recap lunch.
• Bauman Farm & Whisky Hill Store (4/24): A countryside spring outing exploring family orchards, tasting local cider, and enjoying a rustic farm lunch.
• Hawthorne District (5/1): A day exploring SE Hawthorne's eclectic vintage shops, independent bookstores, and vibrant street culture.
• Vista Spring Café (5/7): A relaxing neighborhood brunch gathering featuring fresh seasonal dishes and cozy café dining.
• Multnomah Village (6/5): A small-town boutique shopping excursion through SW Portland's charming village shops and specialty bakeries.
• Sebastiano’s (6/23): A cozy Italian comfort food outing featuring house-made fresh pasta and traditional family recipes.
• Sugarpine Drive-In (7/9): A nostalgic riverfront drive-in meal enjoying elevated Northwest comfort food and sweet treats along the Sandy River.
• Alberta Arts District (7/17): A creative stroll through NE Portland viewing street murals, local artist galleries, and handmade artisan goods.

Introduction to the 5 major tea types and ceremonial tea.
Join us for an introduction to the five major types of tea; green, white, oolong, black, and dark tea. Together we will explore the origins of Camellia sinensis, trace its history and cultural roots, and experience the art of gongfu ceremonial tea service. This class is an invitation to step into the magic, wonder, and devotion that tea inspires, while learning how its many expressions continue to connect us to the natural world and our human nature.

This gathering is offered with a suggested contribution of $35. In the spirit of inclusivity and balance, you are welcome to offer what feels right for you, whether that is $35, $25, or more if you have the means. Contributions above the suggested amount help make this experience accessible to those with financial need and sustain the ongoing care and energy poured into holding spaces like this. Every offering, whether financial or energetic, affirms the value of community supported education.

We also acknowledge the systemic barriers that have long limited access for BIPOC communities. To honor this, a $15 option is available for BIPOC participants who would benefit from it. This is one way we commit to equity, ensuring that diversity is not only welcomed but integral to the richness of the experience.

If the listed prices are still a barrier, please reach out directly. I am more than willing to work with you to ensure that tea remains within reach for all who feel called to share in it.

All are welcome here. You are invited to arrive exactly as you are and take part in a space rooted in openness, care, and community, a living space where each presence is honored and where we grow together through the deep, transformative beauty of tea.

To help us hold a mindful and welcoming space, we ask participants to be considerate of sensory sensitivities by avoiding strong fragrances. This is a space of gentle awareness, where we honor our own needs as well as those of others. By showing up with openness, care, and respect for each other’s boundaries, we create a collective meditative atmosphere where, tea, and community belonging can flourish.

In the spirit of reciprocity and uplifting community together, five dollars from each participant will be donated to Q Center, a nonprofit that supports LGBTQ2SIA+ communities through advocacy, resources, and safe spaces, embodying tea’s spirit of connection, reflection, healing, and belonging.

This class is led by D’Guar (they/them), a trans person of color, tea guide, and community builder based in Portland, Oregon. D’Guar has devoted their path to exploring the spirit of Camellia sinensis through mindful practice, storytelling, and connection. Through their project Water Fairy Tea, they create spaces where tea becomes a bridge between nature, presence, and belonging. Their offerings weave education with devotion, inviting participants to meet tea not only as a beverage, but as a living companion in self discovery and community care with nature and the world around.

We acknowledge that this work takes place on the traditional lands of the Multnomah, Clackamas, Chinook, Kathlamet, Tualatin, Kalapuya, Molalla, and many other Indigenous ancestors and communities. We honor their enduring presence, care, and wisdom, and offer gratitude to the land and to the people who have tended it since time immemorial.

A monthly, prompt-driven freewriting gathering welcomes writers of every genre and experience level. Guided by author and poet Jone Rush MacCulloch, the session starts with a creative prompt, offers focused time to write, then invites anyone who wishes to share their work. It is a friendly space to connect with other writers, approach the page with curiosity, and see where inspiration leads. Jone is the author of Tilt, a novel in verse, and facilitates writing salons and events online and at Cup of Tea.

Middleground Farms is excited to invite you to The Kitchen for a fun and informative demonstration cooking experience featuring Pacific Northwest wines paired with seasonal food! Learn how they create a multi-course menu featuring Grosgrain Vineyards wines and the freshest ingredients available.

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.

21 & Over | $15 Advance, $20 Day of Show | Slicker is a 7-piece country rock band, playing the best country hits while taking you on a musical tour through the decades and genres. Slicker delivers a rock concert-style performance, and brings an energetic party vibe that gets people knocking chairs over to get to the dance floor.

This night of kick-your-heels-up country music begins with a FREE line dance lesson from the Dance Your Boots Off crew.

– – – – –

Reserved Seating Available

Settle in for a cozy fall evening of watercolor at Tumwater Vineyard. Hayley Elmore of Halo Art and Design leads this two-hour class using Emily Lex’s watercolor workbook as a guide, sharing tips and techniques to help you build your skills. Every guest takes home a workbook to keep practicing.

Food and wine will be available for purchase, and wine club member benefits apply. Tickets required.

We provide the supplies, kids and their adults make projects together! Join us in the Community Room at 2:30 or 3:15 PM for a side-by-side art activity. We'll be looking at two fabulous children's books-- A Gallery of Cats by Ruth Brown, and Cat Nap by Brian Lies-- and creating our own gallery-worthy cat pictures. Limited capacity, pre-registration encouraged. 36 seats available for kids age 2-11.

Wacheno Welcome Center Lobby and Front Desk (WC100) Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 9:30 – 11am Rob Findtner, Associate Director for Transfer Recruitment Tuesday, November 3, 2026 9:30-11 a.m. Oregon City Campus - Wacheno Welcome Center: Lobby Are you planning to transfer to PSU? Would you like more information about when you should think about applying? How to apply? What classes will be transferred? What classes can you still take at CCC? Meet with the PSU advisor, Regina Arellano. In-person at CCC and virtual options available.

The holidays may still be a few weeks away, but the best baking traditions are worth starting early! If you fill tins with homemade cookies, love bringing something sweet to a holiday gathering, or dream of giving beautiful gifts from your own kitchen, this class is for you.

Maxwell Olwa and Theresa Huggins from Lutheran Community Services Northwest will discuss how restorative justice offers an approach to harm that emphasizes accountability, healing, and community connection alongside alternatives to punishment. Drawing on their work with youth, adults, and people affected by harm, they will explore opportunities to build understanding, repair relationships, rebuild trust, and support safer, healthier communities. Guests are welcome.

Join us for an engaging artist talk with Sara Star, a compelling speaker who offers deep insight into her creative process and the rich storytelling behind her work. Known for her blend of magical impressionism and abstract realism, Star weaves together lore, myth, and nature to breathe new life into ancient primordial beings while celebrating women in timeless narratives. Hearing her speak provides a fascinating look into her mixed-media techniques, including how she builds layered compositions using gold leaf, collage, and oil paint to bury subtle details within each piece. Attendees will gain a direct appreciation for how she translates folktales of wisdom and transformation into powerful visual expressions of beauty, healing, and connection. Learn more about the artist at sarastar.com.

You can view Star's work in the library's Stairwell Gallery throughout November in her show Enter Enchanted Worlds - The Magical Art of Sara Star.

Participation is free, and no registration is required. Please note, seating is limited due to the size of the space. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A livestream will be available.

Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information contact April Younglove at 503-534-5667 or [email protected].

Industrial Technology Center Lower Lobby Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10am – 1pm Repair Fair hosted by Clackamas County and the CCC EET Program. Event is open to the public. Public is invited to bring small appliances and sewing projects. Volunteers will attempt to fix as many items as possible. More information can be found on the Clackamas County Event Page Contact [email protected]

Build your own tiny Jurassic World while enjoying the finest of dinosaur cinema, selected by Teen Room vote.

This program is for teens.

Learn the fundamentals of processing heritage breed pigs. Gain practical knowledge in humane slaughter techniques, scalding, scraping, evisceration and breaking down the carcass for further processing.

Important Note: Actual slaughter does not happen during any class time.

This class is for adults 21 and over only.

(Recommended for 0-18 month old children and their caregivers)
10:30AM (lower level) the first Friday of each month

Trying to communicate with your infant presents all kinds of challenges. Beyond reading, singing and talking to them, Baby Sign Language can provide a unique bond. Christina Schabow of the Portland Early Learning Project will lead this program introducing new themes for each program.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library and admission is free, and there is no registration required. The Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact the Youth Services Librarians at 503-697-6580 or [email protected].

Join us for a practical, informative and approachable conversation to help you plan for the people you love and the future you actually want. We'll cover: Guardianships - Medical Directives - Wills & Trusts - Business and Estate Risk Management. We'll be joined by Oregon Estate Planning Attorney and LO mom Michelle-Shari Kruss.

Seating is limited - Please RSVP to Shayra Leon - [email protected] - (718) 496-7601

Wine, NA beverages and light snacks will be served.

Attendees will be automatically entered to win 2 Zoo Lights tickets for December 10

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.

Spend Sunday afternoon with independent presses and the people who make Portland’s literary scene: authors, publishers, readers, writers, editors, and booksellers. Unsolicited Press authors and publisher will join local independent presses for readings, conversation, and local beer.

unsolicitedpress.com

Elevate your bridge game in a welcoming, low-pressure environment! Designed for players with prior experience, this program combines short, targeted lessons with guided table play to help you sharpen your strategies and build confidence. It’s the perfect opportunity to refine your skills, ask questions in real-time, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

Learn about the City’s Clear and Objective Track Type II tree removal permit regulations effective as of October 1, 2026. This new tree removal permit process only applies to tree removal associated with the construction of one or more new dwelling units or the creation of residential lots. This workshop will explore the relevant code criteria, minimum tree retention requirements, required mitigation and street tree planting, and tree retention deficit fees, and demonstrate how to use the new Tree Inventory spreadsheet template and submit a complete application. This workshop is led by Daphne Cissell, Associate Planner in the Planning & Building Services Department, along with the City’s Contract Arborist, Morgan Holen.

Pre-registration is required and capacity is limited to 40 participants in-person or select Zoom registration for remote access. This workshop is free and open to local arborists, builders, developers, architects, and Lake Oswego residents. Register now!

The City of Lake Oswego is engaged in a long-range planning process to identify and evaluate options for a future library that can meet our community’s needs. The existing library facility is facing significant and worsening seismic, water intrusion, building system, and accessibility deficiencies. These conditions impact the ability to provide safe, reliable, and equitable services. As part of this process, we invite you to tour the existing library and see the conditions and challenges that are shaping the conversation.

Please register for the tour.

Volunteer Opportunity Participants will learn about native plants, non native plants, managing a nature park/ trails in a urban setting, while building community. About the Program Metro manages 20,000 acres of parks and natural areas, including 17 parks, 14 historic cemeteries and three boat ramps. By volunteering, you are helping steward and preserve nature at this site, for generations to come. Participants have the opportunity to learn about the site, local plants and fauna, while building community and restoring habitat for all. About the Project Join Metro Parks and Nature at Scouters Mountain Nature Park to plant native plants along the hiking trails. The trail that people will plant on is a short 10 minute hike down a nature trail. All tools and supplies provided, as well as some light refreshments. For more information, visit Metro Requirements Age: Volunteers of all ages are able to participate in this opportunity; any volunteer under age 18 must attend with a parent or adult chaperone. Accessibility: moderate level activity with a short walk on uneven ground. Notices Referral Opportunity: This opportunity is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Sign-up using the link above or use the "express interest" button below for our partner to contact you with next steps and confirmation details. Hands On Greater Portland Hours: Your hours may not appear in your Hands On account because this is a partner‑managed opportunity.

The Mayor’s Roundtable is a quarterly community forum designed to connect our community directly with the Mayor, Council members, and City leadership to discuss top City goals, share ideas, and address local priorities.

Please join us for a special community gathering co-hosted by the City of Lake Oswego and the African American Women of Lake Oswego and Surrounding Areas on Thursday, November 12, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM in Oswego Hall at LORAC. This event will feature a warm welcome for our new City Manager, an opportunity to connect with the City Council, and a chance to learn about upcoming initiatives.

We look forward to seeing you there!

A Friendsgiving themed charcuterie styling workshop takes place at Lux Sucre Bakery & Cafe in Wilsonville, where participants learn how to build a beautiful, delicious board and enjoy a festive outing with friends, coworkers, or a significant other. Guided by Grazing To-Go’s owner, Paula, the session covers creating a salami rose, cutting and styling cheeses, presenting fruit in creative ways, and practical tips for planning, shopping, prepping, and assembling a board at home. Each attendee receives a 10-inch round acacia wood board with a handle to keep, along with a box and packaging for transporting everything. Boards are built with charcuterie meats, three to four cheeses, fresh and dried fruit, nuts, cornichons, olives, preserves, honey with a dipper, holiday themed garnishes, crackers, and a sweet, with each board serving up to four. The experience includes a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage, light appetizers, and a mini pumpkin pie from Lux Sucre to enjoy on site or take home. Prizes add to the fun, and attendees receive a 15% discount code for a future Grazing To-Go charcuterie order, including holiday orders. The class runs for 90 minutes. Tickets are priced at $90 for one or $170 for two, and they are non-refundable but transferable to a future class.

Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact Alicia Yokoyama at 503-534-4228 or [email protected]

Join Middleground Farms for a festive evening on the farm as they celebrate the art of holiday entertaining with an inspired collection of beautiful, delicious appetizers. They’ll share the secrets to creating impressive little bites, balancing bold flavors and adding those special finishing touches that make party food feel extraordinary. Along the way, you’ll explore clever make-ahead strategies, easy entertaining shortcuts and a few chef techniques that will have you feeling like a pro at your next gathering.

This event repeats every week on Monday.

Join Sharon Gan, founder of Heart Strings Mandarin, for a program specially designed for young learners. We will sing, move, play instruments, and tell stories. We welcome all levels of Mandarin fluency from absolute beginners to native Mandarin speakers. Recommended for ages 2-5 years. Space is limited and available on a first-come basis.

欢迎参加心弦中文的中文音乐律动课。
Sharon老师会和小朋友一起唱歌，跳舞，玩乐器，说故事，度过充实的三十分钟。
本课程适合二到五岁的小朋友，各种语言程度都可以参加。
名额有限，请速报名！

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library and admission is free. The Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact the Children’s desk at 503-697-6580 or visit the Library’s website at www.lopl.org/kids.

If you are just starting to research your family history or are an accomplished researcher, you are welcome to join us! Our goal is to share ideas and to help one another overcome challenges in tracing our heritage.

No meet up on April 7.

Are you a reader, a writer, or a speaker looking to turn your passion into a career? Are you a creative person looking to transition to a new job within the arts? Join the Clackamas Arts Alliance and the Milwaukie Ledding Library for a panel discussion about Careers in the Literary Arts. Come prepared to consider yourself and your work habits, and bring your curiosity about your career options. Careers discussed will include fiction writing, ghostwriting, journalism, bookstore operations, institutional communications, and work as a literary agent.

To register, visit: https://clackamasartsalliance.org/makers-creative-artists-workshop-literary-arts-career-panel/
While a donation to Clackamas Arts Alliance is encouraged, no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

ABOUT: The Clackamas Arts Alliance offers its Makers & Creative Artists Workshop series throughout the year. These workshops offer creative people a way to explore business potential and opportunities.

Questions? Contact [email protected]

Join us for another Pints from the Past Program! This month's discussion is presented by Kathryn Sinor titled Horsin' Around: History of the Lake Oswego Hunt Club.

What started as a group of locals riding their horses in Oswego Lake pivoted to a long-standing community institution nearly 100 years ago. Through the work of real estate developer Paul Murphy, the determination of club members, and the spirited horses who carried countless riders through the years, the Lake Oswego Hunt Club tells the intertwined story of Lake Oswego's development and horses. Discover the history of the Lake Oswego Hunty Club through the Oswego Heritage Council's newest exhibit!

This program is supported by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library. Participation is free, and no registration is required. Please note, seating is limited due to the size of the space. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A livestream will be available.

Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact Joshua Macias at [email protected] or 503-675-2535.