A FEW GOOD MEN. Aaron Sorkin’s searing courtroom drama gets played out on the Lakewood Theater stage starting March 1 and running through April 7. Tickets are $40/Adults; $37/Seniors and $25/Students. 368 S. State Street.
LAKE OSWEGO READS BOOK GIVEAWAY. Receive a free copy of this year’s book selection, Honor by Thrity Umrigar by bringing your Lake Oswego library card or number to the library on Saturday, March 2 beginning at 11:00 a.m. Books will be distributed through the parking lot as well as walk-up service. Please do not line up beforehand. There will also be 3-book and audiobook copies through the library’s Overdrive Advantage account for those who are unable to get a book at the giveaway. For questions, contact Nancy Niland nniland@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)
FAMILY DAY AT OSWEGO HERITAGE HOUSE. The Oswego Heritage House invites you and your family to visit on Saturday, March 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for fun activities and history. This month’s theme is INDUSTRY with an exhibit that chronicles how people in early Oswego worked. For more information, visit www.oswegoheritage.org. 398 10th Street.
SWINGIN’ SOCK HOP. This year’s Small Tall Ball takes you back to the fabulous 50s so get out your poodle skirts, leather jackets and dancing shoes. The dance includes dinner, DJ, dancing and commemorative photos. Tickets are $32/person for residents; $48/person for non-residents for ages 3 and up. Saturday, March 2 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Christ Church Parish. 1060 Chandler Road.
LAKE OSWEGO READS 2024 AUTHOR TICKET GIVEAWAY. Hear Honor author, Thrity Umrigar speak on her book on Thursday, April 25 at Lakeridge High School Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. by picking up tickets (limit of two per person) at this giveaway. A LINCC library card is required. The library opens at 10:00 a.m.; the ticket giveaway will begin at 11:00 a.m. inside the library and end once all tickets have been distributed. For more information, please email Nancy Niland at nniland@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail). Saturday, March 9, 706 Fourth Street.
PINTS FROM THE PAST. This popular program returns on Tuesday, March 12 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Learning history was never so much fun or delicious! (Topic still to come). Admission is free and no ticket is required (though food and drink purchases are encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater). Doors open at 6:30, and the presentation begins at 7:00. The Lake Theater & Café is located at 106 North State Street in Lake Oswego. For more information, contact Carissa Barrett at cmbarrett@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail) or 503-534-4237.
BINGO WITH POISON WATERS. Support the Lakewood Center for the Arts while treating yourself to the one-of-a-kind entertainment and dynamic presence that Poison Waters provides. Tickets for this fundraiser are $55 ($20 tax-deductible) and include dinner, entertainment, bingo and one beverage. Wednesday, March 13 from 5:30 pm. to 8:30 p.m. Lower level side door stage, 368 S. State Street.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL.The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is making a long weekend of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with tents, music and events starting Friday, March 15 and running through Sunday, March 17. 352 B Avenue.
HOP AT THE HUNT. This fun family event returns to the LO Hunt Club just in time for Easter. Hope the Bunny arrives by LO fire truck at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 30 with the egg hunt starting at 10:00 a.m. Recommended for children up to age 10. For more information go to the Lake Oswego Chamber website. 2725 Iron Mountain Boulevard.
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“When the root is deep, there is no need to fear the storm.” (African proverb)
During last month’s climate event with winds that were capped at 65-80 mph, many Lake Oswegans questioned the wisdom of that proverb.
With reports of more than 100 trees falling on both public and private land, residents are looking at the trees that our town takes pride in, a little differently. Should we?
The main thing residents need to remember, according to Logan Collier of Bartlett Tree Experts, is that it’s still a relatively small population of trees that did fail. “It’s easy to focus on everything that went wrong,” he explains, “but if you look around, there are still a vast majority of trees still standing.”
Still, there are proactive things residents can do. “Take a breath,” Collier says, “and don’t make any tree decisions based on fear.” Instead he recommends that residents have their trees inspected by a certified arborist, preferably one with a tree risk assessment qualification.
Collier explains that most tree assessments are done considering normal weather conditions, not extreme events like we just saw. Arborists look for things like a change in the lean of the tree or if there’s crackling or bundling of the soil at the base of the tree. Pruning can help increase a tree’s wind resilience if it’s done proactively. Research shows it’s best to reduce the longest branches on the upper third of a Douglas Fir, for example. That’s where the most wind is going to make things happen and create the most leverage.
Another thing residents can do to make their trees healthier and better equipped to deal with storms is to increase their root growth by creating a more fungal based ecosystem around their trunk. By removing grass three times the diameter of the tree’s trunk away from the tree and replacing with mulch, residents give the soil and their tree added nutrients, reduce water evaporation and soil erosion and keep roots at an ideal temperature. Just be sure the mulch is around the tree, not up against it.
While trees are one of our best defenses against the effects of climate change, they also can be victims of climate change as well. Although Douglas Firs have adapted well to our climate, we have been experiencing hotter and drier spells, so residents need to be watering their trees in the summer. Aim for a longer duration at a slow speed so the water has a chance to really saturate the soil.
Despite all the precautions, even healthy trees can fall victim to winds like the ones we saw last month. But cutting them all down isn’t the answer, either. “If there is anything that will help to increase failure in trees it is to start removing them,” Collier explains. “That creates more of a wind tunneling effect that increases the speed of winds which can be even more destructive.”
We have about a dozen Douglas Firs staking claim in our front yard and Collier confirmed the truth of the saying that there is strength in numbers when it comes to trees. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, grouping trees together affords them a degree of mutual protection, root stability and reduction of wind velocity. So if residents have a loner in their yard, they might want to consider giving it some company.
It seems we have to learn to live in our new normal and realize we can’t just take our trees for granted. As mighty as they may look, they need to be maintained and cared for so they can keep providing all the benefits they provide us from curbing climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to improving our mental health. Protecting our canopy and protecting our safety cannot be an either/or question. We need to resolve how we can do both.
Thinking of moving in or out of Lake Oswego? Let us help you. My daughter Riley and I offer you the best in experience, service and insider market knowledge. We’d be happy to discuss what your next move is and how we can help make that happen!
Kevin Costello – kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com 503.939.9801
The Lake Oswego housing market is starting to thaw. Just as the ice melted from last month’s storm, the freeze on homebuying and selling is also giving way to more activity.
Just in the last month alone, my daughter and I have been involved in sales that featured an offer that was over asking and one listing that sold in one day. And we are working with buyers who either have to move or have become acclimated to the new interest rate range, with sights on refinancing down the road.
Inventory still remains lower but sellers who want to move their homes still need to position themselves strategically. That means….
Pricing strategically. It’s important to work with a hyperlocal Realtor who can do a comparable market analysis, looking at things like location, condition of the home, certain desired amenities like main floor primary and lake easements, and when other homes sold. Comparable homes that sold at the height of the pandemic when the market was at its hottest are probably not the best reference points when dialing in a number that will attract buyers today. The median sale price in January of this year in Lake Oswego was down 22% from last year so be sure you or your agent are comparing apples to apples.
Putting your home’s best foot forward. This is not two years ago when it seemed anything on the market would fly. With interest rates where they are, it is costing buyers more to buy a home so they want a home that is move-in ready. Update as much as you can, improve your curb appeal, remove clutter, improve the lighting even if it just means getting brighter light bulbs.
Working with a Realtor who knows the local market and is a good communicator. This works to your advantage in several ways from pricing your home to negotiating to sourcing any work that needs to be done. A Realtor who keeps you in the loop and is accessible can take the stress out of the equation.
If you’re a buyer out there, be sure to shop around for a lender. Some are offering free refinancing for up to five years which can soften the blow of higher mortgage payments in the short term. By getting in now, you can beat the competition for homes that is sure to heat up once rates lower, which I’m anticipating happening by the summer. If you need some referrals, give my daughter Riley (971.322.6205) or myself (503.939.9801) a call and we can put you in touch.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Lake Oswego or the Portland metro area, Riley and I are here to help. Let us make the market work for you. Please reach out.
Over the years I’ve provided more than 600 reasons to love Lake Oswego and consider moving here. But our recent Arctic blast with heavy winds followed by an ice storm made one of the many reasons really stand out….
THE PEOPLE.
With more than 100 trees falling across the city, many of us were left without power which on any winter day can be uncomfortable but when the highs only hit 18, miserable is more like it. One Lake Oswegan was killed after a tree fell through his house so fear added to the cold to make the situation challenging for many residents.
Calls for help started flooding social media sites.
“Can a neighbor do a check? My mom’s house had a tree fall on it and it busted the window. Her phone is dead and we can’t get there. Nor can she leave. Anyone in the area able to do a check? Her house is the blue one with 2 Volvos in front on Pomona.”
The offers of help came flooding in, at least 30, and someone was able to confirm that this person’s mom was okay.
“We’ve noticed a few posts where people are requesting firewood. We have a large stack available in our backyard if anyone needs to take any.”
People chimed in thanking these Lake Oswegans for their generosity, even those who weren’t in need of firewood.
“Anyone know how to start a fire or have wood? Me and my roommate are stuck at home with three kitties and one small dog with no power. We can see our breath in our bedrooms. If anyone has wood and stuff to start a fire in an indoor fireplace and could bring it please let us know. We’ll pay you whatever you need for the wood.”
Here were some of the responses:
“We would love to help! We have a little firewood plus some kindling and dryer lint and can even help you light it.”
“Is your flue open on your fireplace? Ride Aid will have bundles of wood. Do you have a lighter? Dryer lint lights really fast to get a fire started. Go outside in your neighborhood to find dead branches that have fallen. You should be able to find plenty.”
“I’m going to be in the neighborhood for the next 10 minutes. I’m not sure if you’re able to message me directly but if you still need some wood, let me know. I’m happy to drop some off.”
Another woman was asking for any spare firewood for a 77-year-old friend of hers in Mountain Park in preparation for the ice storm. She too got flooded with offers of help, including one neighbor who said to contact her anytime for help as she lives nearby and is always happy to lend a hand.
One resident in Lake Grove noticed all the calls for firewood and offered what she had in her yard. “It’s under plastic and dry. Anyone who wants to come get it is welcome to it. DM me for address.”
Another neighbor cried out, “We are running out of firewood! No electricity! Is there anyone with wood we can get right away?”
In addition to offers of firewood, one resident in the Oswego Point apartments offered “a place to hang out, take a shower, cook some food, etc.”
Many others piped in and offered something similar along the lines of: “I would like to offer a place to come warm up, fill a thermos with coffee/hot water, charge some phones, borrow a camp stove. I am also totally cool if you just want to come make a hot meal, grab our French presss, toss some laundry in.”
Yet another said: “Offering up my home in Lake Grove if anyone needs to warm up. I still have power and hot water. PM me if you need a break from your freezing house today.”
More residents flooded sites with offers to stop by a take a break from the cold: “Offer: I would like to offer a place to come warm up, fill a thermos with coffee/hot water, charge some phones, borrow a camp stove. I am also totally cool if you just want to come make a hot meal, grab our French press or toss some laundry in.”
Another similar post from a resident in Bryant said: “We have no power, but we do have a generator to warm up the house. If you live within walking distance, you are welcome to stop by to charge the phone, have a tea and warm up.”
Yet another resident off of Carman cleverly thought to offer shelter for animals so those with pets and no power could stay in a hotel. “If animals are stopping you from going to a hotel or family’s house to stay warm, I can take in a couple kitties and small animals.”
And in Marylhurst, a Lake Oswegan was willing to take in another family for several days saying: “We have heat, power, food and space for a family lacking these things to hunker down with us. We have a guest room with a queen bed and a separate bathroom and a playroom with sleeping surfaces for multiple kids!” Talk about going above and beyond!
Even in the midst of the chaos, some Lake Oswegans still had a sense of humor. One resident on Buy Nothing Lake Oswego posted, “Premium quality ice available for pick up. Delivered by mistake and my family does not like it. We would like to see it gone ASAP. Serious interest only, prompt pick up in McVey/Southshore is highly appreciated.”
So yes, Lake Oswego has a beautiful lake, excellent school district, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, art and culture offerings, great dining and coffee options, swim parks, hiking trails, thriving farmer’s market, shopping districts and more….but not to be overlooked are the people which give it a great sense of community – people who will look out for you when you find yourself in need.
We can personally attest to this as our basement flooded back in 1996. Without even putting out any calls for help (social media didn’t exist back then), neighbors just showed up at our door, moving furniture and belongings up to higher elevation and forming a relay line to move sandbags from the street to our backyard. The water may have been rising but our spirits were lifted by the kindness shown by the community we proudly call our own.
And THAT, is one of the most compelling reasons to love Lake Oswego – the community you’ll find here.
Thinking of moving in, out or around Lake Oswego? Give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to put my 30+ years of experience as a Realtor in Lake Oswego to work for you!
ART BAR – VALENTINES. The Lake Oswego Library’s Art Bar is open all month in the lower level with all the supplies you and your kids need to create valentines for those special people in your life. Stop by and explore your creative side. 706 Fourth Street.
FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE. Head down to the Children’s Library for an afternoon of cuddling up with your little one while enjoying popcorn and a family-friendly movie featuring that lovable, gentle-hearted anxious cartoon character who has a crush on the Little Red-Headed Girl and is devoted to his beagle. Friday, February 2 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street.
LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL. Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the Lake Oswego Library by joining in on some of the fun activities they have planned in conjunction with LO for Love and the Palisades World Language School. Activities include: children’s stories read in Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese; Heart Strings Mandarin performing songs, dance and poetry; Nanta Drumming and Korean Fan Dance by Oregon Korean Performing Arts; Lion dance performance by White Lotus Dragon and Lion Dance; demonstrations on how to fold a dumpling or make red envelopes as well as how to create a Chinese ink painting. Saturday, February 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.
A JOURNEY THROUGH PIEDMONT WINE DINNER. Nicoletta’s Table has already sold out tickets to this special wine and food pairing event featuring the Piedmont region. Best to get on their email list to be one of the lucky early birds to learn of these events in advance! Wednesday, February 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $90/person. Nicoletta’s Table, 333 South State Street, Suite M.
INDOOR KOKEDAMA WORKSHOP. Learn how to create your own Kokedama plant ball in this class on this ancient form of Bonsai in which plant roots are encased in soil and wrapped in moss—no planter needed! $35 class fee covers all materials. Saturday, February 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue.
WINE TASTING AT RICCARDO’S. Enjoy generous pours of Italy’s best wines, an antipasti plate and a great afternoon on Saturday, February 10 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. $20 per person; first come first served. Happens every month on the second Saturday. 16035 Boones Ferry Road, 503.636.4104
FLORAL ARRANGEMENT WORKSHOP. Dennis’ 7 Dees is offering this class at their Bridgeport Village Plant Shop just in time for Valentine’s Day. Learn the basics of floral design and create a gorgeous arrangement for you to keep, Tuesday, February 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. Fee is $55. 7325 SW Bridgeport Road.
THE LOST TREASURES COLLECTION: ROMANCE/ROMANCE. The Lakewood Theater Company continues its series of obscure and rarely performed musicals presented in concert/cabaret style with these two one-act musicals linked by the common theme of love and one song performed in both acts. February 16 at 7:00 p.m. and February 17 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. $20/person. Side Door Stage. 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901
PORTLAND ROSE SOCIETY CARE AND PRUNING CLINIC. Get your questions answered and watch a demonstration on the proper rose pruning techniques. Bring your hand pruners for free sharpening. The class on basic rose care will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and has limited capacity. Clinic runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 17. Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue.
LAKEWOOD THEATER COMPANY DRESS REHEARSAL PERFORMANCE OF A FEW GOOD MEN. Catch a dress rehearsal performance of the Lakewood Theater Company’s newest production on Thursday, February 29 at 7:30 p.m. Suggested Donation: $5. Registration through the Adult Community Center is required by calling 503.635.3758. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street.
From bidding wars to high interest rates, the housing market has thrown challenges to both buyers and sellers the last couple of years. Despite that, my daughter and I have been successful in helping clients get into the homes they want through tried-and-true negotiation strategies, creative financing solutions and tapping into our network of hyperlocal Realtors.
As a result, we’ve delivered such wins for our clients as:
●Finding a couple their dream home on one of Lake Oswego’s canals through off-market networking
●Negotiating a $300,000 reduction in asking price for our buyers by providing comparable sales that justified it
●Providing strategic listing price advice to encourage the sale of a home in a highly competitive price point
●Beating out as many as 16 multiple offers to land several clients their dream home
●Finding an off-market property for a local real estate investor
Our success relies on our intimate knowledge of the market as both Realtors and residents. I’ve been President of the Chamber, school volunteer and an active Rotarian. My daughter grew up through the Lake Oswego School District system, worked as a Lake Grove Swim Park lifeguard and wrote a column for The Oregonian. That gives us an insight that Zillow searches can’t provide such as what neighborhoods in Lake Oswego have easement rights to the lake and what neighborhoods in Portland offer the highest appreciation. In addition, we are a hands-on team, keeping our clients informed every step of the way and keeping the transaction moving until we reach that happy ending.
We’re offering a Free Virtual Home Buyer Seminar on January 25th from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for anyone interested in going into 2024 armed with the latest information on and the best strategy for navigating the Lake Oswego and Portland metro area housing markets. We’ll cover market projections, how to prepare to buy a home, a step-by-step breakdown of the homebuying process and more. Simply scan the QR code above to sign up. See you on Zoom!
Make your wish list. Lake Oswego has certain amenities that other towns do not, so in addition to best school, best neighborhood, you also want to ask yourself how important it is to have access to the lake. Do you want to live in a house that has lake easement rights? Do you want to be able to use the Lake Grove Swim Park? Do you want a view of the lake or do you want to be able to hop right in from your backyard? Other things to consider are community pools, quick freeway access, walkability. Make a list of which of these assets are at the top of your list.
Check and strengthen your credit. Your credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage and affect the interest rate that lenders are willing to offer you. So get a free credit report from any of the three credit bureaus and make sure there are no surprises. In the meantime, keep paying your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, your current credit card accounts open and don’t open any new credit accounts to make big purchases like a new car.
Meet with a lender. Before you get too far into your home-buying journey, you should definitely meet with a lender to determine the price range you can afford. This can save you time (and heartache) by going into the search with the information you need. By getting pre-approved, you can also strengthen your offer and expedite the home-buying journey. It pays to shop around and if you need some referrals, give me a call at 503.939.9801.
Talk with/meet with a hyper-local Realtor like myself or my daughter, Riley. I’ve lived and worked as a Realtor in Lake Oswego for over 30 years and my daughter grew up here so between us both we have firsthand knowledge of the schools, the lake life, the community and most importantly, the housing market. Show us your priority list and we can start focusing your search on particular neighborhoods and homes in Lake Oswego that meet the criteria you’re looking for.
Subscribe to my blog. With over 656 blogs posted in 12 years on topics ranging from Lake Oswego housing market updates to a guide to coffee shops in town, this is a one-stop-shop for finding out everything you wanted to know but didn’t know who to ask about Lake Oswego. And if you have a question that isn’t answered here, give me a call at 503.939.9801 and I’d be happy to help.
Moving to Lake Oswego could be a great 2024 New Year’s resolution and we are here to help you make that happen! Reach out to us and we’ll put our experience, enthusiasm and market expertise to work for you. And watch next week’s blog – we are offering a free virtual homebuying seminar and you’ll learn all the details.
If you are starting the New Year off with good intentions to get fit in mind and body, you have no excuse not to follow through with them if you live in Lake Oswego.
That’s because there is a studio, gym, club and/or class for just about every body type, exercise preference and schedule.
Here’s a roundup of all your reasons to make 2024 the year you get and stay in shape!
ACTIVE WELLNESS CENTER. In partnership with Providence, Active offers cardio and weight training machines, free weights, steam and locker room, showers, and personal training and massage for additional fees. Membership includes access to group exercise classes both in person and online which include Yoga, Boot Camp, Strength Training and Cardio. Check it out with a free tour of their 7500-square-foot facility. Senior discounts available. 5300 Meadows Rd., Suite 150. 503.216.6606.
AGE-LESS BODY PILATES STUDIO.Age-Less Body Pilates Studio provides Pilates instruction in an intimate setting in small group sessions for teens to adults. 311 B Avenue, Suite Z. 503.381.3281.
ANYTIME FITNESS. With 24/7 access to the gym and 5100 locations worldwide, you’re going to find it hard to say that working out doesn’t fit into your schedule. Right now they are offering a free seven-day pass to try things out. Enjoy a customized workout plan based on your needs and goals once you decide to sign up. The coaching and the equipment is there to support you. 1171 McVey Avenue, 503.636.1664.
BARRE3. The focus here is on full-body workouts balancing strength conditioning, cardio and mindfulness. Choose from a variety of packages for single classes all the way up to unlimited. Newcomers are invited to try the first class for free or 2 weeks unlimited for $65. 4859 Meadows Rd., #167. 503.303.5146.
BODY20. What doesn’t sound good about this—20-minute workouts…life-changing results?! This technology-based workout experience relies on electro-muscle stimulation that creates up to 150 times more muscle contractions than conventional training. Combined with their personalized workout experience, the program is designed to get results much faster than traditional workouts. Right now they are offering two weeks free! 4055 Mercantile Drive, Suite 165, 503.365.6898
CLUB PILATES. Enjoy full-body workouts with low impact, taking advantage of equipment like the Reformer, TRX Suspension Trainer and springboards. The studio features a variety of classes aimed at balance, strength, mobility and flexibility—you’re sure to find the right fit. They offer a free introductory class if you want to check it out. 3 Monroe Parkway, Suite 300F. 503.822.5473.
COREPOWER YOGA. This studio is located just outside of Lake Oswego near Bridgeport Village and they are currently offering a discounted first month at $99 for unlimited access to all studio and online classes ($179 after the first month). You can also choose from studio class packages as well. 7497 SW Bridgeport Rd., Tualatin. 503.206.0650.
CROSSFIT LAKE OSWEGO. Get the support, education, and motivation you need to participate in this fitness program. New members are encouraged to try their first class for free. While classes vary, the format typically covers a warmup, strength exercises, metabolic workout, mobility and core. Choose from a variety of packages that vary in pricing depending on your usage.17425 Pilkington, Suite A/B. 971.93.2900
IMAGINE YOGA. Find whatever style you are looking for here from calm to power. Try them out for 21 days unlimited for only $59. They also offer special events like Yoga in the Vineyard with live music or Yoga and Crystal Bowl Sound Bath so be sure to check that out as well. 425 2nd St., #120. 503.908.7845.
IM=X PILATES AND FITNESS.This studio offers Pilates re-invented, re-choreographed and reconstructed for a cross-conditioning system that produces quicker results in both private and semi-private sessions. See for yourself. 436 1st Street. 503.908.0024
LAKE OSWEGO PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT. Class offerings range from Zumba Gold, Nia and Yoga to Power Burn and Spin and Sculpt. Check their current catalog for a complete list of offerings.
ORANGETHEORY FITNESS.This five-zone heart rate-based workout will have you spending at least twelve minutes in your “orange zone” to achieve the maximum caloric burn for up to 24 hours after your class. Try the first class for free and then choose from different levels of membership and packages that give you nationwide access to locations wherever you happen to be. 4025 Mercantile Drive #120. 971.808.4700.
PILATES BODIES STUDIO.New clients are encouraged to sign up for the introductory package of five lessons on the equipment for $225. From there you can continue with private or semi-private lessons or group classes. 16130 SW Boones Ferry Road, Suite A. 503.913.5788.
PROJECT 360. The equipment and support are here to support you in reaching your fitness goals. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, this is your spot. Membership is limited to 200 with full access from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. to the extensive range of cardiovascular and functional training equipment. Work alone or let one of their professional trainers guide you. Locker rooms, showers, lounge, and a Trackman Simulator to sharpen your golf game are all included in the membership. Connect online for information. 460 2nd Street.
SNAP FITNESS. Want to work out on your schedule, not the gym’s? Snap Fitness is open 24/7 and also offers over 1,200 on-demand workouts through its Snap App. Enjoy one free personal training session to check the facility out. Offers group classes, strength training, personal trainers, cardio equipment, free weights and nutrition consultant. Take advantage of $0 upfront fees if you join by January 14. 6296 SW Meadow Avenue. 503.968.7627.
STAR CYCLE. These hard-hitting 45-minute indoor cycle sessions utilize invigorating music, choreography, dimmed lighting and upper body movements and weights to ensure a high-energy, full- body workout. Child care available. They offer a New Client special of 3 classes for $40. Book your class today. 375 2nd Street. 503.303.4498.
THE BAR METHOD LAKE OSWEGO. This boutique fitness studio offers transformative workouts leading to long, lean, sculpted muscles. No previous dance experience is necessary. Take advantage of their new client offer: 50% off one month of unlimited classes. 15780 Boones Ferry Road. 503.305.5942.
TRAINER’S CLUB.This club offers cardio machines, free weights, personal training, massage therapy, as well as a variety of group classes from Yoga and Tai Chi, to Zumba and spin. There is also a Pilates studio and chiropractor located on-site. Currently offering no initiation fee with a six month contract. You can also pay for individual classes as a non-member to check things out. 333 S. State Street. 503.636.3900.
TWIST YOGA. Enjoy all your favorite forms of yoga from restorative to power. New members can enjoy 21 days of unlimited yoga for $59 with access to both studio and online classes. 3970 Mercantile Drive. 503.303.4195.
WAM CLUBS. One membership here gives you access to two clubs—the Mountain Park and West Hills Racquet and Fitness Clubs. Between the two you can enjoy 17 indoor and 11 outdoor tennis courts, a year-round heated pool, renovated exercise fitness rooms and equipment, over 35 fitness programs and classes and 16 pickleball courts (4 outdoor, 8 indoor and 4 outdoor overlays). Choose from a tennis membership which includes all club privileges or a health membership which includes fitness center access, classes and pickleball (court fees apply). Mountain Park – 3 Botticelli Street, Lake Oswego, 503.635.3776; West Hills – 2200 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Portland, OR, 503.646.4106. Schedule a tour to check it out.
YOGA SIX.Take your pick from six different class types from hot and powerful to slow and mindful. First class is only $10. Choose from unlimited monthly packages to just the Lake Oswego studio or to all local studios or sign up for four classes per month. 101 S. State Street, Suite 4120. 541.299.9642.
LARGER FITNESS CENTERS JUST OUTSIDE OF LAKE OSWEGO
24 HOUR FITNESS.The local center includes a full-size basketball court, three-lane indoor lap pool, Kids Club, sauna, steam and spa, free weights and circuit training, personal trainers, racquetball court, and cardio equipment. Group exercise classes include Yoga, Body Pump, Cycle and Pilates. Membership fees vary and can include access to any of their fitness centers across the nation. Take advantage of their free gym pass to check it out. 17942 SW McEwan Road, Tigard. 503.670.0400.
BAY CLUB PORTLAND. Located just past Bridgeport Village, this top-notch fitness center features all the “to-be-expected” along with some unique offerings including a Rock Climbing Center with 11,500 square feet of climbing surface as well as an Air Fit Studio for high altitude training. The facility also has indoor basketball and pickleball courts, racquetball and squash courts, a six-lane indoor swimming pool as well as an outdoor aquatic center, The Edge performance training center, Pilates studio, Kids’ World and café. Most group fitness classes are free to members and are offered in two studios (Exhale which includes yoga, Pilates, Nia, Tai Chi, and Barre type classes and Excite that offers classes along the lines of Zumba, Group Fight, Strength and Conditioning and High Intensity Interval Training). Personal trainers are on hand as well as nutritional counselors. A new “shared” membership package allows you to join with up to five friends or family members. 18120 SW Lower Boones Ferry Road, Tigard. 503.968.4500.
LA FITNESS. This 45,000 square foot facility features cardio and strength conditioning machines, three racquetball courts, one basketball court, an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna in locker rooms, Kids’ Club and classes including Zumba, yoga, water aerobics and cycle and spin classes, SilverSneakers fitness program, and Boot Camp Conditioning. Personal training is also available. Membership fees vary but you can try them out with a free 3-day guest pass. 7405 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin. 503.404.0126.
STAFFORD HILLS CLUB. Stafford features seven indoor and three outdoor tennis courts as well as pickleball courts. In addition, there is an outdoor saltwater pool with six lanes for lap and recreational swim, a small children’s swim area and a splash pad for kids. Family events and children’s programming are offered regularly and childcare is available to family memberships. Group exercise classes run the gamut from Hard CORE and Cycle Strength to Cardio Strength, Zumba and Yoga. Personal trainers are on hand for individual as well as Team Training sessions. A salon and spa and café round out the facilities. Membership rates vary. 5916 SW Nyberg Lane, Tualatin. 503.612.2400.
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to buy or sell your home, give me or my daughter a call. We’d love to help you reach your goals!
Kevin Costello: 503.939.9801 kevincostello@cascadehassonsir.com
Since 2011, I’ve posted 656 blogs, bringing readers all the reasons to Love Lake Oswego each and every week. Here’s a roundup of the 10 most popular posts this past year:
The One Reason We Moved to Lake Oswego and the Endless Reasons We Stayed. Although I posted this blog at the end of 2022, it continued to rank highly through the beginning of 2023. While the lake initially drew us to this community, we found lots of other reasons to stay from the schools to the natural beauty.
10 Things You Need to Know About Lake Oswego Easements. This is another perennial favorite which I posted in 2020 but that readers keep reading. And it makes sense. There are 3,000 homes in Lake Oswego with access to 20 lake easements, giving those homeowners lake access without having to pay waterfront prices.
Coffee Shops in Lake Oswego to Check Out. From national chains like Peet’s and Starbucks to homegrown varieties like Morse Coffee, Lake Oswego has plenty of options for the caffeine craved.
Considering Buying a Waterfront Home in Lake Oswego?One of the reasons Oswego Lake is so beautiful is that it is managed by the Lake Oswego Corporation which assesses waterfront homeowners a certain fee every year to improve the water quality and provide certain services. So that is an additional cost potential homebuyers need to consider.
When the Going Gets Hot, Check Out These Swimming Holes in Lake Oswego.This is a perennial seasonal favorite once our summer temperatures start ticking up. From the Lake Grove Swim Park, to community pools to George Rogers Park, learn about all the opportunities to cool off right here in town.
Top 10 Reasons Kids (and Families Love the Lake Grove Swim Park.The Lake Grove Swim Park is one of the most popular swimming holes in Lake Oswego and this post explains why. There are two swim parks in town; the other is open to all residents of Lake Oswego but this one is only open to residents who live in the original Lake Grove School District boundary. So be sure to explore that with your Realtor if having access to this gem is important to you.
Best Neighborhoods for Trick or Treating in Lake Oswego. In October, this blog post resurfaces as parents start planning their Halloween strategy. This year I even got a call from a dad in Milwaukie who was wanting to know where to take his kids. Word’s out—Lake Oswego homeowners are generous when it comes to handing out Halloween candy.
If you’re not already subscribing to my blog, be sure to do so by clicking the “Follow” on your phone or the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column on your desktop. You’ll receive weekly updates on all the reasons to live in and/or move to Lake Oswego. And if you decide to check Lake Oswego out, give me a call at 503.939.9801 and I’ll show you around.
If you drive around Lake Oswego, you’ll see that Lake Oswegans take different approaches to showing their holiday spirit.
Some are more sophisticated. Others appeal to the kid in all of us. And others just have a funny sense of humor.
Here are a few glimpses into the spirit of Christmas as displayed by Lake Oswegans. Do yourself a favor and take a drive through the different neighborhoods. One spot you have to check out is the corner of Childs Road and Indian Springs Road. These Bay Area transplants go all out, not only for Christmas but Halloween too. Pictures don’t do their display justice, so you won’t find one here–you just have to go see it for yourself!
My daughter and I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday and Happy New Year! May your homes be filled with laughter, love and loved ones.
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com 503.939.9801
I feel pretty lucky—I live where I work and I love where I live. As a Realtor in Lake Oswego, Oregon, I get to share that enthusiasm with clients every day. Through this blog, with the help of my freelance writer wife, Genita, I’d like to share that enthusiasm with you. Be sure to visit my website.
Due to the changing nature of activities in response to COVID-19, I am suspending this section of the blog temporarily but wish every mom out there a Happy Mother’s Day today!
52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego 