Celebrate Indie Bookstore Day With a Visit to One of the Portland Area’s Favorites

Posted on April 20, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

April 26 is Independent Bookstore Day, a one-day national party to celebrate the fact that despite the threat of Amazon, indie bookstores are making a comeback.

Unfortunately, the revival comes too late to save Lake Oswego’s former bookstores including Graham’s. But we do lay claim to one bookstore currently: The Booktique, a used bookstore operated by The Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library.

And a short jaunt into Portland will satisfy the book addict in each of us from the city-block icon Powell’s to Green Bean children’s bookstore in the Alberta Arts District. But in today’s retail environment where many brick-and-mortar stores are closing, how do experts explain the independent bookstores that manage to navigate this ever-changing consumer landscape?

It’s about the three C’s, according to Ruyan Raffaelli, professor of business administration at Harvard Business School and author of a working academic paper, “Reinventing Retail: The Novel Resurgence of Independent Bookstores.” 

Community—Indie bookstores are capitalizing on the “Shop local” trend, tapping into that sentiment to create relationships and foster community.

Curation. Independent bookstores are finding their strengths which rely more on curating inventories that create a more personal and individualized experience. Rather than just featuring bestsellers, they often give shelf space to debut authors, local writers and/or typically unexplored genres. This gives each bookstore its own personality, veering away from the one-size-fits-all impression you get when you see the same titles recommended by celebrity book clubs and featured in bestseller roundups.

Convening. Indie bookstores have also become community gathering places, offering author talks, storytimes, book signings and more. It’s their equivalent of a “loss leader”—a product sold at a loss to draw in customers. Once inside their four walls, bookstores are finding that customers find reasons to explore and shop.

Luckily for those of us who love to read, indie bookstores have found a way to survive (even after the pandemic). And luckily for us, we live in the Portland metro area, easily ranked on many surveys as one of the Top 10 Most Well-Read Cities in America. Here are some independent bookstores to check out.

POWELL’S WORLD OF BOOKS. I have to start the list with the bookstore that makes the city’s list of top attractions. With over two million new and used titles in stock, Powell’s dispels any notion that indie means small. And it’s a perfect example of all the three C’s I talked about earlier: they host over 500 author events a year, in addition to children’s storytimes, writing workshops, game demonstrations, and book clubs. “Shelf-talkers” (note cards that hang over shelves with handwritten notes from bookstore staff explaining why they love a book) are everywhere offering a personal touch to recommendations. Powell’s staff have created an experience for the book lover that he or she won’t find online or at Barnes and Noble.

BROADWAY BOOKS. We’re a bit partial to Broadway Books seeing that they carried copies of Riley’s novel, Waiting at Hayden’s. (If they’re out, just ask them to order it). But that fits their profile—they like to feature emerging writers alongside established ones. Their tagline is: A Great Little Store with Great Big Service and they pride themselves on knowing their customers and their tastes.  Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 1714 NE Broadway, 503.284.1726.

PASSAGES BOOKSHOP AND GALLERY. Looking to expand your reading horizon? Enter Passages Bookshop which specializes in modern poetry, literature, avant-garde art, book arts, fine printing and artist’s books, signed and inscribed copies and limited editions, and rare and unusual books. They host readings, book launches, lectures, music and artist receptions tied into their regularly changing exhibitions. To give you an idea of the fact that this is not your typical big-box bookstore, a few years back they enlisted 18 readers in a four-plus hour marathon reading of Ronald Johnson’s ARK. Hours: Open most days by appointment or by chance. 1223 1801 NW Upshur, Suite 660, 503.388.7665.

GREEN BEAN BOOKS. Stroll through this bookstore’s Instagram feed and you can tell they are having way too much fun getting children excited about books. Their collection features new and used books for all ages as well as a lot of side attractions like shadow-box dioramas, vintage coin-operated vending machines, a menagerie of cuddly creatures, storytimes, summer camps, comics classes, poetry slams, reading to a dog and more. If there’s a youngin’ in your family, this is a must-stop. Hours: Sunday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,  Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 1600 NE Alberta Street, 503.954.2354.

THE BOOKTIQUE. This is recycling at its best. The thousands of titles here have either been donated by Lake Oswego residents or withdrawn from the shelves of the Lake Oswego Library. Other finds include: puzzles, CD’s, DVD’s, VHS tapes, talking books, records and beautiful handmade bookmarks. Every week, the Booktique offers Sales and Specials. Some of these tie into holiday themes or seasons, and some highlight different categories of books so check back regularly to see what’s featured. Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. 4 Monroe Parkway, Suite D (503.699.9109) City Hall 380 A Avenue, Suite B, (503.534.5758).

MONOGRAPH BOOKWERKS. Store owners opened this place to give artists and the public a place to study, explore and purchase the finest contemporary art books being published today. They’ve also curated a growing collection of art and objects and artists’, political and counterculture ephemera that will have you walking through time. How about a 1972 poster and flyer of the SDS National Convention Against Racism or a Handmade Cut Stone Puzzle (Circa 1960)?  Be surprised! Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. 5005 NE 27th Avenue at Alberta, 503. 284.5005

 MOTHER FOUCAULT’S BOOKSHOP. Collectors will definitely find their way here with an eclectic selection of used, rare and vintage books on philosophy, foreign language, arts, fiction, poetry. Hours: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.  523 SE Morrison Street, 503.236.2665.

ANNIE BLOOM’S.This bookstore has been a fixture in Multnomah Village since 1978. They must be doing something right, including a Readers Rewards system that cashes out $5 off your next purchase after spending $100 on books. Their monthly event calendar is usually filled with author readings and special events like the after hours release party celebrating Emily Henry’s new book, Great Big Beautiful Life! Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturdays and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sundays. 7834 SW Capitol Highway, 503.246.0053.

WALLACE BOOKS. Fans call this bookstore located in the heart of Portland’s Sellwood/Westmoreland neighborhood, a “bibliophile’s dream, full of hidden treasures.” It is stocked with new and used books, both the hottest new bestsellers, and that quirky, hard-to-find out-of-print treasure! Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. 7241 SE Milwaukie Avenue,  503.235.7350.

ROSE CITY BOOK PUB. Just in case you need a little libation to coax you to sit down and read, Rose City Book Pub offers beer and wine, as well as a food menu along with their books. Writers can find inspiration in the monthly Drink and Write drop-in sessions on the last Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Artists can do the same at their Drink and Draw sessions on the first and last Thursday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.Other events include open mic, chess and trivia. Hours: Weekdays, noon to midnight; Weekends 11:00 a.m. to midnight. 1329 NE Fremont Street.

BELMONT BOOKS PDX. Owner Joseph Witt wants to surprise his customers with books they may not know they want to read yet. Albeit a smaller venue than many of the other bookstores in town, fans call it a “hidden gem,” and “a reader’s playground.” See for yourself! Hours: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. 3415 SE Belmont Street.

BACKSTORY BOOKS AND YARN. Owner Ilse Roberts breathed new life into the former Hawthorne Boulevard Books when she moved her operation from the Foster neighborhood to Hawthorne, taking half the original space to house her 8,000 to 12,000 used book title inventory as well as second-hand yarn. (although she is looking to expand into carrying some new titles). Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily except Tuesday.

Discover all there is to enjoy in and around Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area. Subscribe to our blog by clicking on the “Sign me up ” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates. 

 

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Pickleball Returns to Lake Oswego with LORAC Opening

Posted on April 13, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

April is National Pickleball month and pickleball players in Lake Oswego finally have something to cheer about. After enduring quite the void created by closing the popular pickleball courts at George Rogers Park, fans of the sport have had to look elsewhere while the City tried to figure out another alternative.

The new Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center (LORAC) will feature three indoor pickleball courts available for use once the facility opens. In addition to clinics, there will be dedicated open play times, and as future planning efforts outlined in the Parks Plan 2040 and upcoming City Council decisions come together, programming will expand and adjust to meet community needs.

Currently dedicated open play times are scheduled to be:

Sundays: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Mondays: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Wednesdays: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Fridays: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

There are 11 sections of Intro to Pickleball for beginners being offered this summer as well as Drill and Play clinics (four sections) and Family Play (five sections).

Pre-sale memberships for LORAC are now closed and will reopen once the facility is open to the public. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for LORAC is set for Saturday, April 26 beginning at 9:30 a.m. and includes self-guided tours of the facility, Parks and Recreation information booths, complimentary refreshments and treats, project partner booths and guided tours of the adjacent golf course. You can find proposed fees online.

Come later this summer, pickleball players will have another nearby option. Pickleball Kingdom is opening a 42,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility at 16800 SW 72nd Avenue in Tigard which will feature 13 professional-grade indoor courts and plans to hold tournaments, leagues, clinics and youth programs.  

Be sure to check these places out and find out why pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States.

Subscribe to our blog and find out why Lake Oswego, Oregon is a great place to live! Reach out and we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about moving to Lake Oswego.

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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What You Should Know About the Lake Oswego Lake Run

Posted on April 6, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

This year marks the 49th year of the Lake Oswego Lake Run set for Saturday, May 3. There must be some good reasons why runners have tackled its hilly terrain for more than four decades so we checked in with a couple of last year’s early finishers to see what keeps runners coming back.

Amy Cantor, a Lake Oswego resident and physician and researcher at OHSU, was the third female finisher last year with a time of 41.57 minutes. For the past three years, she has beaten her time from the year before placing fifth in 2022 (44.58), and fourth in 2023 (42.49.) She doesn’t enter many races, preferring to run with friends, her husband and on trails and averages 30-40 miles a week.

David Easa, is a software engineer who has lived in Lake Oswego for the last two years and was the third male finisher last year with a time of 36.18 minutes. It was his first Lake Run and he plans to run again this year. He has clocked many race miles over the years including the Boston marathon twice and Honolulu and averages 20-50 miles per week.

What do you like most about the Lake Run?

Amy: “I love that I can walk out my door, jog down the street and be at the starting line. It’s fun, convenient and makes me feel like a local.” She is usually joined by her husband, and in years past her kids participated in the Kids’ Dash. She also loves turning off McVey and getting to cruise down South Shore for a bit where the beautiful view of the lake provides a wonderful distraction for a good half mile.

David: “I like how different each piece of it is – you have State Street which is urban and flat, then the climb up McVey which is challenging but not brutal followed by some rollers on the back stretch and then the race is on when you get on Iron Mountain.”

What’s your least favorite part about the Lake Run? Both would probably identify the climb up McVey as the most challenging but each has a different strategy for tackling it. Amy likes to accelerate at the beginning of a race, letting the adrenaline and the excitement of the start propel her to get out ahead of the crowd, knowing that once she gets to the top she’ll be rewarded by a bit of cruising when she can establish her pace. David recommends pacing yourself up McVey so you’re not giving anything away but you’re not blowing yourself up either.

What advice would you give to first-time runners? Both David and Amy recommend familiarizing yourself with the course so you know what to expect. That McVey climb can be an unwelcome surprise if you’re not prepared for it. And it’s good to know that once you turn off Iron Mountain on to Berwick, there is still work to be done so you don’t let up too soon.

How do you prepare for the Lake Run? In addition to getting his weekly miles in, David works with an online coach who gives him running workouts that he follows and which he feels have really helped improve his performance. While Amy usually runs the Lake Run course in the opposite direction during the year, she will run it clockwise a couple times before the race to prepare herself. Last year, she joined her daughter, who entered the 5K, doing sprint intervals on the track, and believes that helped improve her time.

What’s one thing you’d like to change about the Lake Run?

Amy: She’d prefer that there be separate lanes at the finish for 10K and 5K runners as opposed to merging them as is done now. While she enjoys the excitement and all the cheering, it can be tricky navigating the strollers and extra runners.

David: He suggested reversing the course direction every other year to keep it interesting so instead of tackling McVey at the beginning, it would be waiting for you towards the end.

You can register for the Lake Run online with proceeds benefitting Northwest Housing Alternatives.

The Lake Oswego Lake Run is just one of the endless reasons to love Lake Oswego and love living here! Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more reasons. Just click the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates. We’re Lake Oswego Realtors who live and work here and would love to make your next move your best one!

Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com

Riley Costello 971.322.6205 riley.costello@cascadehasson.com

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What We Love About Lake Oswego in April

Posted on March 30, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

April in Lake Oswego is filled with Lake Oswego Reads events which you can find here. But in addition to all that, the City is celebrating National Poetry Month and Arbor month as well as our four-legged friends and student artists. Check out these activities:

NATIONAL POETRY MONTH SUBMISSIONS. In honor of National Poetry Month, all poets ages 18 and older are invited to submit 1-2 original poems (not exceeding 2 pages)  to be included in the Lake Oswego Public Library’s compilation posted on their website. Submissions are due April 30 and can be submitted electronically on a webform posted online. Questions: Email Rachael Hyde and rhyde@lakeoswego.city.

INTUITIVE ANIMAL COMMUNICATION WORKSHOP. Calling all pet owners and animal enthusiasts! Deepen your connection with the animal kingdom by attending this workshop led by renowned expert, Denise Dunlavy. In addition to developing a deeper understanding of animals’ energetic communication, you’ll also have a chance to gain hands-on experience with a live animal in real-time and explore practical applications that can help improve animal behavior and strengthen your bond. Register online for Course 30187. $30/Resident; $45/Non-Resident. Saturday, April 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue.

LAKE OSWEGO REPAIR FAIR. Save money, get your cherished items back in shape, and reduce waste.  Come with clothes that need mending, small appliances, electronics, and toys and have expert volunteers try to repair them for free! Saturday, April 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue.

LAKE OSWEGO SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCE FAIR. Celebrate Earth Day and connect with diverse organizations across our community who are advancing sustainability. Sunday, April 6 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. River Grove Elementary School, 5850 SW McEwan Road.

YEAR OF THE OAK: ARBORIST TALK AND FILM SCREENING. Join Lake Oswego Watershed Council and Arboriculture Council for an evening of learning and discussion on Oregon White Oak trees in Lake Oswego. Thursday, April 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Lake Theater and Cafe, 106 N. State Street.

OUTSIDE THE ART ROOM: TEEN ART SHOWCASE + AUCTION. Support local artists and participate in a silent art auction benefiting Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP). This is a free event, open to all ages, and features live music, amazing art, kids’ art clinic and more. Friday, April 11 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Recreation and Aquatic Center, 17525 Stafford Road.

TREE PLANTING WORKSHOP. Learn what the City is doing to prepare for the arrival of Emerald ash borer, an invasive insect pest that threatens all ash tree species, and practice proper tree planting techniques while installing a variety of native tree species to help replace the inevitable loss of the ash tree canopy in Foothills Park. Capacity limited to 25 participants. Register now. 199 Foothills Road, Foothills Park Pavilion.

OREGON WHITE OAK TREE SURVEY TRAINING WORKSHOP. Help the City survey Oregon white oaks, collecting data on their size, condition and overall health to inform management decisions. Participants will gather at the picnic shelter for a brief introduction and follow along as the Lake Oswego Watershed Council hosts demonstrate how to use the survey tool and collect tree data before setting out to survey oaks throughout East Waluga Park. After the workshop, participants will be trained to survey oaks on their property or their neighbors’ with their permission. Registration is required and capacity limited to 30 participants. Saturday, April 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at East Waluga Park Picnic Shelter, 15505 Quarry Road.

FRIENDS OF HALLINAN WOODS (FREEPONS PARK) FAMILY NATURE TREASURE HUNT. Gather the whole family for a fun-filled Nature Treasure Hunt, hosted by the Friends of Hallinan Woods ins Freepons Park! Explore the park’s natural wonders as you search for hidden treasures. Sunday, April 27 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Check online for cancellation due to weather.

Don’t ever miss out on what’s happening in Lake Oswego. Subscribe to our blog by clicking the “Sign me up” button and receive weekly updates. And if you are thinking about moving to Lake Oswego, be sure to give us a call. We’re your local experts and would love to help you start enjoying the Lake Oswego lifestyle!

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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Lake Oswego Reads Kicks Off a Month of Book-Related Events Next Month

Posted on March 23, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

Lake Oswego Reads has done it again. With their selection of How to Read a Book by Monica Wood, organizers have given us a timely book that uses fiction to get us to think about our current reality. A chance encounter at a bookstore brings together a retired English teacher, a former prisoner, and a handyman, leading to transformative relationships and the power of books to change lives.

Here are some reasons why you should read How to Read a Book.

The author also wrote The One-in-a-Million Boy which won several awards, including a finalist for Book of the Year by The World magazine .

It has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon with 3,401 readers.

Goodreads gives it a 4.4 based on reviews from 20,550 readers.

Comments from Lake Oswego Selection Committee members perhaps give some of the most compelling reasons to pick up this story.

Andrew Edwards, Executive Director of the Lakewood Center for the Arts describes it as “A deceptively layered tale filled with thoughtful observations on how simple acts of kindness can powerfully impact our lives.”

“This book left me with a glow of love which I would wish the community to share,” explains steering committee member Cherie Dupuis. “But the book offered more than feelings—fascinating content about animal intelligence, the prison system, Spoon River Anthology, forgiveness and redemption.”

Definitely food for thought which will be cooked up by the programming the LO Reads has scheduled throughout the month of April. Here are a few highlights. Find a complete schedule online.

PORTLAND BOOKS THROUGH BARS. Hear speakers from this organization dedicated to combatting educational inequity for people who are incarcerated. Wednesday, April 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Oswego Heritage House, 398 Tenth Street.

HISTORY OF DRUNK DRIVING LAWS. Under pressure, Violet, one of the three main characters in How to Read a Book, drives under the influence and causes a crash that kills another driver. Convicted of manslaughter, Violet is sentenced to two years in prison but is released six months early on good behavior.

What would Violet’s story have been if her DUII crash had occurred in Portland, Oregon, rather than Portland, Maine? Two presenters, Lake Oswego attorney Peter Glazer and Clackamas County District Attorney John Wentworth, will cover the history of drunk driving laws in Oregon and how prosecutions are handled these days. Thursday, April 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

LAKE OSWEGO READS CELEBRATION OF BOOKS. Listen to artist Melody Bush share her creative process in making the book sculptures on display all month in the upstairs area of the library. Her presentation (from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) will be followed by games, treats and a book swap. All participants of the swap will be eligible to win a one-of-a-kind book sculpture donated by Melody Bush. Saturday, April 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:000 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

ANATOMY OF A BOOK: ART CLASS.  LOPL librarian Alicia Yokoyama, along with Creativebug’s Jody Alexander, will introduce participants to the art of bookmaking, creating a finished book perfect for sketching, journaling or gifting. This free program is for ages 13+ and all materials are provided. Registration is required and limited to 10. Register by emailing loref@lakeoswego.city or calling 503.675.2540.  Sunday, April 6 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

LIVE MAN WALKING: WHAT DO WE DO WITH THE GUILTY? Join death row investigator and author Rene Denfeld as she discusses the devastating impact of mass incarceration in Oregon. How do we fix the damage that has been done and what do we do about people who break the law? Wednesday, April 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library 706 Fourth Street.

PRISON THEATRE SYMPOSIUM. Prison arts programs have been operating in Oregon prisons for over a decade. Join two providers and one former participant to learn of their transformative experiences as well as how theater can aid in the emotional, intellectual and spiritual growth of incarcerated populations. Sunday, April 27 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

LAKE OSWEGO READS AUTHOR PRESENTATION. Monica Wood will be here in person to discuss her book and answer questions from the community. Free tickets to hear her in person are available all month starting April 1 at the front desk of the Lake Oswego library. If you don’t have a ticket you can watch the event later on TVCTV television channels as well as on the Library’s YouTube channel. Thursday, May 1 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Lakeridge High School Auditorium. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.) 1235 Overlook Drive.

Enter the Lake Oswego Reads Passport drawing for a chance to win a gift basket donated by the Lake Oswego Library Advisory Board. Download the form online, indicating which activities you have completed and return to the library with your contact information.

Don’t miss out on what’s happening in Lake Oswego. Subscribe to my blog by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates.

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What to Know About Lake Oswego’s “Property Specific” Housing Market

Posted on March 16, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

What if we told you that we have hosted and attended open houses recently that have had foot traffic harkening back to the days of 2.65 interest rates of 2021?

What if we told you that some houses are getting multiple offers, with buyers offering escalation clauses, more than asking and/or waiving the appraisal?

That is what a “property specific” market looks like. Listings that are in great condition, priced correctly and in strong locations continue to move quickly and at times, invite competitive situations.

Luckily in Lake Oswego, many of the “property specific” factors that drive demand and increase home values are a given such as:

School District. Lake Oswego School District consistently ranks the top school district in Oregon and among the nation’s finest according to niche.com’s rankings that take into consideration academics, teachers, clubs and activities, diversity, college prep and administration.

Neighborhood Amenities. With access to desirable amenities such as parks (over 645 acres spread out over 36 different sites), trails (the City offers a recreational loop system of pathways around the community, each designed to connect neighborhoods with schools, parks, and commercial centers), culture (Lake Oswego is home to the Lakewood Center for the Arts offering live theater, classes and an annual arts festival as well as to the Arts Council of Lake Oswego that sponsors exhibitions including the acclaimed Gallery Without Walls outdoor sculpture collection, two community swim parks, several neighborhood pools and a beach along the Willamette River.

Safety. Lake Oswego is the 84th safest city in the United States (and one of only two in Oregon)  based on the total number of property and violent crimes per 1,000 residents according to Neighborhood Scout.

Other property specific factors that affect a home’s value in today’s market include the condition of the home, how dated or updated it is, and in Lake Oswego features like views (of Mt. Hood, Mount St. Helens or the lake), access to the Lake Grove Swim Park, waterfront property and easement access.

Buyer interest in Lake Oswego is high; however, buyers do face headwinds such as prices, interest rates, and housing supply. That’s why it is SO important to work with a hyperlocal Realtor like one of us who can help you navigate these challenges from encouraging you (and connecting you) to different mortgage brokers to shop the best rate to positioning your offer to be competitive while protecting your investment strategy going forward, to finding off-market properties.

Know that when you work with us, we will ALWAYS have your best interests in mind. We have talked many clients OUT of buying a house that we didn’t think was a good investment. And we have lost listings because we tell clients the truth, not what they necessarily want to hear. Our clients appreciate the service we deliver throughout their homebuying or selling journey, providing honest advice and real market insight to ensure they make wise decisions.

Feel free to reach out. We’d love to work with you!

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day In and Around Lake Oswego

Posted on March 9, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

As an official Irish citizen (I gained my citizenship about two years ago!) I thought it my duty to let you in on where you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in and around Lake Oswego.

As Irish luck would have it, you don’t have to travel far to get in the spirit. The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is continuing their long tradition of making St. Patrick’s Day a cause for celebration with tents, music and events from Friday, March 14 through Monday, March 17. Sunday is Family Day starting at noon with an Irish dancing performance and dance clinic for all ages. 352 B Avenue. 503.305.8087.

If you want to venture a little further out, here are a few other celebrations you can try:

ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN WILLAMETTE. Our neighbors in West Linn are putting on the green in their historic business district on Monday, March 17 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy market vendors, live music, photo booth, a scavenger hunt and raffle. 1785 Willamette Falls Drive, West Linn.

8th ANNUAL SHAMROCK CRUISE on Sunday, March 16 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Boards at 3:30 p.m. Board the Portland Spirit for a three-hour cruise on the Willamette with music and dance of Ireland. Suitable for all ages. Tickets: $55/ General Admission.

IRELAND VS. USA AMATEUR BOXING on Friday, March 14 with doors opening at 5:00 and fights commencing at 7:00 p.m. at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This evening is part of Kells Portland Irish Festival, bringing a match-up between some of the finest Irish and American boxers. Tickets are $45/presale; $50at the door.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT KENNEDY SCHOOL all weekend long. Enjoy live music and entertainment as well as multiple days of food and drink specials, including McMenamins own Devils Bit Whiskey (goes on sale on Saturday, March 15). 5736 ME 33rd, Portland. 503.249.3981. All the McMenamin locations will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with special Valentine’s Day Dinner on February 14 so pick the location nearest you.

PADDY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION March 17 at Paddy’s Bar & Grill, 65 SW Yamhill Street featuring live Irish music, bagpipers, Irish Dancers, Irish food specials, Guinness, Kilbeggan Irish Whisky and more. Cost: $25-$100.

KELLS PORTLAND IRISH FESTIVAL on March 14-17 at three different locations: Kells Brewery, Kells Irish Pub and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Check out the full schedule so you know where to be and when. Saturday is Family Day filled with live music, face painting, Irish wolfhounds and traditional Irish dancing. Tickets: $30-$100.

PUB CRAWLS. There are lots to choose from but here are a few to consider: Generally you purchase a ticket that gets you access to select venues and drink specials.

Kiss Me, I’m Irish! Portland St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on March 15 – 17

Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on Saturday, March 15

St. Patrick’s Day Block Party and Pub Crawl on March 15

SHAMROCK RUN on Sunday, March 16 beginning at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 SW Naito Parkway. Portland’s longest running tradition features multiple distances ranging from the Doernbecher Leprechaun Lap 1K for kids 10 and under to the half-marathon. Celebrate at the “Finish Line Festival” with a green beer garden and live music.  

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE on Sunday, March 16 beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Beverly Cleary School, 1915 NE 33rd Avenue. Great family event to include in your festivities.

SELLWOOD-MORELAND ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL. Enjoy a parade, carnival, live music and entertainment, food cards and more at St. Agatha Catholic School on Saturday, March 15 from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Check the schedule online.

CELTIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY for all ages on Monday, March 17 with doors opening at 6:00 p.m., event at 7:00 p.m. at McMenamins Kennedy School Theater, 5736 NE 33rd Avenue. This multi-media production promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family with rousing Irish jigs and reels, dazzling LED lights, Irish dance, soaring stilt walkers, and more! Experience the world’s only light-up orchestra! Tickets available online.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY WEEKEND AT UTOPIA VINEYARD. Enjoy traditional Irish appetizers and a flight of five of their Estate wines for $25. Saturday, March 15 through Monday, March 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 17445 NE Ribon Ridge Road in Newberg.

If you want the luck of the Irish on your side in your house-buying or selling journey, give one of us a call.  We’d love to help!

Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com

Riley Costello 971.322.6205 riley.costello@cascadehasson.com

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When it comes to Lake Oswego home values, what a difference 20 years makes!

Posted on March 2, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

I was going through some old sales records of mine, and ran across the list of 36 Lake Oswego homes I sold in 2005. Prices ranged from $330,000 for a home on Blackforest to $1,330,00 on Glenmorrie.

You could have moved onto coveted North Shore Road for $1,125,000. Currently there is a lakefront house for sale there listed at $4,995,000.

And I sold a home on 10th Street in the First Addition for $589,900. Since then the house has been torn down and is now estimated at $2,500,00.

We moved to Lake Oswego in 1985, before it was “discovered.” We were able to buy a waterfront home (on the canal) for $118,000. You can’t find anything on the canal today under $1,800,000.

But the good news about Lake Oswego is that, while the price of entry has increased, home appreciation is still a real thing and an added benefit to living here. Just last year our son bought a home in the First Addition and he has already seen it go up in value by at least $200,000.

I’ve always said the average appreciation rate for homes in Lake Oswego is around 5%. Of course, we’ve seen crazy times like in 2021 when homes appreciated by 24.3% and in 2016 by 16.4%. But slow and steady is more the norm and to be expected when you live in Lake Oswego.

Benjamin Franklin is known to have said, “… in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” If you live in Lake Oswego, you can “and home appreciation.”

If you’re interested in finding out what your Lake Oswego home is worth, or are considering buying a home in Lake Oswego, give one of us a call. We’d love to put our expertise to work for you and help you start enjoying so many of the benefits of living in Lake Oswego!

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What We Love About Lake Oswego in March

Posted on February 23, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

1. Lake Oswego Reads Book Giveaway. Celebrate the 19th annual Lake Oswego Reads by picking up a free copy of this year’s pick, of How to Read a Book by Monica Wood on Saturday, March 1 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.(or until books run out). 800 free books will be distributed to Lake Oswego Public Library cardholders, thanks to the ongoing support of the Friends of the Lake Oswego Library. You must have your library card or number with you to receive a copy. Books will be distributed through the library parking lot starting at 11am. Please do not line up beforehand. Walk up service will also be available starting at 11am.

For questions, contact Nancy Niland nniland@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)

For those unable to get a book at the giveaway, the library will have many circulating copies and librarians will purchase 5 e-book copies and 2 e-audiobook copies of How to Read a Book through the Overdrive Advantage account. The e-audiobook copies are for 100 checkouts each and allow simultaneous users. These copies will only be available to Lake Oswego card holders. LINCC Network will also purchase additional e-copies for all of LINCC cardholders.

2. Daylight Savings Time. The bad news is we lose an hour of sleep on March 9 because we need to move our clocks forward one hour. The good news is that we start gaining an extra hour of sunlight to enjoy at the end of our workday, leading up to our glorious summer nights when sunset can be as late as 9:03 p.m. in late June and early July.

3. Pints from the Past: My Father Created D.B. Cooper. On November 24, 1971, a man calling him­self Dan Cooper purchased an airline ticket for $20 and boarded a one-way flight from Portland to Seattle. After takeoff, he hijacked the plane with a note, collected $200K in cash, demanded a reroute to Mexico, and parachuted out of the plane, never to be identified or found again. The legend of “sky pirate” D.B. Cooper made national headlines thanks to journalist Clyde Jabin. His son, historian Darrell Jabin, will share this incredible story with personal insight as part of the library’s Pints from the Past series on Tuesday, March 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Lake Theater & Café, 106 N. State Street. Doors open at 6:30, the presentation begins at 7:00. Admission is free and no ticket is required (though food and drink purchase is encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater). For more information, contact Carissa Barrett at cmbarrett@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail) or 503-534-4237.

4. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is traditionally the go-to spot to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Lake Oswego and this year will be no exception. Plans are for the festivities to run from Friday, March 14 through Monday, March 17. 352 B Avenue.

5. Prom Dress Giveaway. The Lake Oswego Teen Lounge is collaborating with Abby’s Closet to host a Prom Dress Giveaway with a variety of styles and sizes to choose from. Thursday, March 13 between 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. or Saturday, March 15 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Located at Christ Church Episcopal Parish, 1060 Chandler Road.

6. Hybrid: Is it AI or Is It Real? How to Spot Computer-Generated Content Like a Librarian. Learn to navigate the rapidly-changing world of information with this new series of classes sponsored by the Lake Oswego Public Library. The first class, on Sunday, March 16 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. will focus on the tools and techniques librarians use to identify AI-generated texts and images. Learn actionable tips to spot the difference between human and computer-created content in your daily life.

Upcoming Classes:

Class 2: Can You Trust Online Influencers? Fact-Checking Like a Librarian (May)
Class 3: Why Does Fake Information Exist? Understanding the Motives Behind Misinformation (July)
Class 4: Tired of the Algorithm? How Librarians Find Reliable News Sources (September)
Class 5: You Seem Nice, Let’s Be Friends! Spotting Scams Like a Librarian (November)

A livestream will be available at https://www.youtube.com/@LakeOLib/streams(link is external)

The library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, please contact April Younglove at 503-534-5667 or ayounglove@lakeoswego.city

7. Bingo with Poison Waters. Make it a night of full entertainment with dinner, bingo with prizes and a lively performance by Poison Waters, an entertainment experience that hundreds of thousands have enjoyed over three decades. Tickets are $55/person and includes dinner and one beverage. Sunday, March 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  Purchase tickets online. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 360 S. State Street.

8. Third Thursday Art Walk. Enjoy great art, shopping and dining as downtown Lake Oswego businesses offer specials and promotions to encourage residents to come out and explore.  Thursday, March 20 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Downtown Lake Oswego.

9. World Cinema: When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit. Enjoy a special screening of “When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit”, a poignant and historically significant German film based on the semi-autobiographical novel by Judith Kerr on Tuesday, March 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. The story follows nine-year-old Anna as she and her family flee Nazi Germany in 1933, seeking refuge in Switzerland, France, and eventually England. This touching film captures the challenges and resilience of a young girl during a tumultuous time in history.

Stay after the screening for a lively discussion about the film’s themes, including the impact of war on children and the importance of resilience and hope.

This screening is part of the Lake Oswego Public Library’s World Cinema Series, a monthly event showcasing diverse international films at The Lake Theater & Cafe (link is external)on the last Tuesday of every month at 5:30 PM. Admission is free, and no ticket is required (though food and drink purchases are encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater).

Can’t make it to the screening? Library patrons can also stream “When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit” on the library’s Kanopy streaming service using your Lake Oswego Public Library card number.

The Lake Theater & Cafe is located at 106 N. State St., Lake Oswego. For more information, please contact ayounglove@lakeoswego.city(link is external) or by phone at 503-534-5667.

10. Cherry Blossoms. Cherry blossoms start putting on their display in March. Here in Lake Oswego you’ll find them in Sundeleaf Plaza, Millennium Plaza Park and lining many of our commercial and neighborhood streets. If you want to experience a natural high, head over to the Japanese American Historical Plaza at Tom McCall Waterfront Park where one hundred perfectly aligned cherry blossom trees are sure to WOW you when in full bloom. They usually start putting on their show mid-March and last two to three weeks.

March is the beginning of the active spring housing market in Lake Oswego. If you want to get a head start, give one of us a call. We can help you determine what your house is worth is you’re planning on selling or help you determine what you can afford to buy in Lake Oswego and what neighborhoods might be the best fit for what you’re looking for. We’ve lived and worked here for over 30 years so we know the market and have resources that can help make your next move your best one!

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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Celebrating Innovation in Lake Oswego

Posted on February 16, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

In honor of U.S. Innovation Day on February 16, we thought we’d take a look at some of the innovative things that have happened/are happening in Lake Oswego.

MILLENNIUM PLAZA PARK AND LAKE VIEW VILLAGE. With all that happens at Millennium Plaza Park, it’s hard to imagine it not being there. But until 1999 it didn’t. Thanks to the Lake Oswego Redevelopment Agency formed twenty years earlier in 1979, the City had a vision and a plan for managing urban renewal activities. By using tax increment financing and other public financing programs, LORA has been the driving force behind such city beautification projects such as Sundeleaf Plaza, Lake View Village, Headlee Walkway and the Boones Ferry Road Improvement Project. While many of the LORA projects result in other benefits like increased economic vitality, they also add to the beauty that is one of our city’s greatest assets. Thinking outside the box – that’s what innovation is all about and fortunately we had community leaders with a vision and the chutzpah to make it happen.

INNOVATION LABS in Lake Oswego schools. One of the initiatives of Lake Oswego’s 2017 capital construction bond was to explore different ways for Lake Oswego students to learn. Innovation Labs or iLabs in all the elementary and middle schools were the answer. Students work in groups on STEM projects that not only involve math and science skills but also research, problem-solving, planning, engineering, collaborating and YES, innovating.

LAKE OSWEGO PUBLIC LIBRARY. We are continually impressed with the programming and services that the Lake Oswego library continues to provide and their ability to make the best out of what they have. While it is a common perception that Lake Oswego needs more library space, our library manages to innovate and continue to find creative ways to engage and serve the public. Take their current Winter Reading Bingo game where completing 4-5 challenges in a row gets you a prize. Or their “It’s Not a Box! – In the Jungle” community cardboard building project scheduled for March where participants are invited to drop into the Children’s Library to create whatever their minds imagine a box could be. And the most convincing evidence of Lake Oswego library’s innovation is its Lake Oswego Reads program that features a month-long schedule of speakers, craft classes, book discussions and more related to each year’s chosen book. This year’s is How to Read a Book by Monica Wood with free book giveaways on March 1 and programming in April.

LAKEWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS. You think you know what to expect from the Lakewood Center—entertaining plays, theatre and performance classes, art exhibits and the annual (and innovative) Festival of the Arts! But then you go on to their website to look at the lineup and you see that Stand-Up Comedy has entered the scene! Tyler Boeh appears January 29 followed by Sean Jordan on February 5. That deserves a standing ovation for innovation! Check it out.

OFF AND AWAY CELL PHONE PRACTICE. Starting this academic year, the Lake Oswego School District instituted a full ban on cell phones and all mobile devices (smart watches, tablets, headphones) during the school day. They are one of the few districts to apply the ban across all grade levels. Students are told to turn them off and put them away rather than locking them up in special locked pouches which other schools have done. Considering that nearly 75% of U.S. teens reported in a Pew Research Center study that they feel happy or peaceful when not on their phones, this is an innovative way of trying to capitalize on some of the benefits of cellphone free zones.

In a recent episode of Learning in Lake Oswego with Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Lake Oswego High School Principal Kristen Colyer reported benefits of students being more focused in class, making more eye contact with teachers and peers, engaging more with each other during lunch and the “beautiful noise” filling the halls with students talking with each other as opposed to being glued to their phones. Junior Taylor Hefner gave a student’s perspective explaining that the policy has changed the school environment, generating more dialogue among students and eliminating a lot of the drama with students actually communicating directly with each other as opposed to doing it behind other’s backs through their phones. Less distractions thanks to random text messages that could mess with a student’s head mean that many students find the policy very helpful in reducing stress.

Parental response has been both positive and almost relieved that the schools are enforcing it so they don’t have to and negative, with parents concerned about emergency response. One of the reasons behind the district’s decision to adopt an “Off and Away” policy versus locking the phones up is as Schiele explains, “we can do this and still allow people to use phones in case of an emergency.” Parents can always reach students through the front office and there are exceptions to the rule for health, safety or emergencies with prior approval.

We’ve lived here long enough to witness much of the evolution of Lake Oswego, brought about by innovative individuals, committed to making Lake Oswego a great place to live. Please reach out if we can answer any of your questions about moving to Lake Oswego. We’re here to help.

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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