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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Make Plans to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Lake Oswego

Posted on February 9, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

Valentine’s Day is one of those occasions it’s best to plan ahead for. Especially if you want to surprise your valentine with something that requires a reservation. Spots at romantic restaurants can fill up fast. Things can sell out. So don’t delay. I’ve done some legwork to save you time.

Make a dinner reservation. A few places in town are offering special Valentine’s Day menus including:
●La Provence. You can book your reservation online for their special Valentine’s Day menu featuring a prix fixe dinner with soup or salad, entrée and dessert for $55 (also available a la carte). Available Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15. 16350 Boones Ferry Rd., 503.635.4533.


●Riccardo’s is offering a special four course menu at $100/person (not including wine, drinks and gratuities) on Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15. Share an Antipasti and Primo Course (three offerings each) and then select individual Secondo and Dessert offerings. 16035 Boones Ferry Rd. Call to make a reservation: 503.636.4104.

●Lake View Taphouse will be offering a special menu in addition to their regular offering that includes bacon wrapped scallops and a steak and lobster tail dinner.

●Mann’s on the Lake. In addition to their regular menu, Mann’s on the Lake will be offering special starters and entrees including Herb Roasted Branzino and Lanroc Pork Osso Buco. Book your reservation now. 40 N. State Street, 503.303.9861.  

●Nicoletta’s Table. While Nicoletta’s is celebrating their “love of Italy” all month with specials, they will also be offering a special curated menu for Valentine’s Day weekend as well as live performances by Andrea Algieri and Chase Cranor. 333 S State Street, 503.699.2927.

Eat in. Create a delicious Valentine’s Day at home with Zupan’s Seafood Platter for 2 or ready-to-cook Beef Wellingtons. Chocolate-covered strawberries can add a sweet finish. Pick up February 13 and 14 but place your order now. 16380 Boones Ferry Rd, 503.210.4190.

Let’s do lunch instead! Celebrate love and friendship at the Adult Community Center’s Valentine’s Day Party, on featuring a lively game of Bingo. Suggested donation of $ for those 60+ and $5 charge for those under 60. Friday, February 14 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call the ACC to reserve a seat: 503.635.3758.

Wine and Song. Enjoy live music with Hayley Lynn while enjoying dinner or a wine tasting experience at Domaine Serene Wine Lounge on Thursday, February 13 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Combining Maggie Rogers’ cool persona and Elle King’s unapologetic energy, Lynn has created a style and sound that joins the ranks of bold indie powerhouses that came before her. Make a reservation. 300 First Street.

Take in a play. The Lakewood Theatre is performing Stop the World I Want to Get Off as part of its Lost Treasure Productions performed on the Side Door Stage on Friday, February 14 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 15 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. It’s a thought-provoking tale about the fleeting nature of worldly success told through the life of an Everyman character named Littlechap as he is born, grows up, faces life’s challenges and ultimately makes a choice celebrating the cycle of life. Tickets are $20/person and available online. 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901.

Go dancing. Enjoy the sounds of the “Big Bands” of the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s performed by the Millennium Dance Band. A on Friday, February 14 from 7:00 p.m. to9:00 p.m.ll ages are invited to hit the dance floor. $7/person at the door. Christ Church Parish, 1060 Chandler Road.

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What We Love About Lake Oswego in February

Posted on February 2, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

FIRST WEDNESDAY AT OSWEGO HERITAGE COUNCIL. Poems composed by numerous Japanese American poets during WWII were kept in a journal by Masaki Kinoshita and discovered by his grandson, Duane Watari. These poems and their translations were compiled into the book, They Never Asked: Semryū Poetry from the WWII Portland Assembly Center. Selected poems will be read in Japanese and English by translators Satsuki Takikawa and Mike Freiling. Wednesday, February 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Oswego Heritage House, 398 10th Street.  Refreshments at 5:00 p.m.

STAND UP COMEDY NIGHT WITH SEAN JORDAN. Enjoy a hilarious night of comedy with this touring stand up comedian and podcaster who has appeared on Comedy Central, the Late Late Show with James Corden and who Paste Magazine calls “both genuine and genuinely hilarious.” Wednesday, February 5 at 7:00 p.m. on The Side Door Stage, Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Tickets: $25.

WINTER RAMBLE: MAP AND COMPASS TRAINING. Learn navigational skills with a map and compass and then use these skills to navigate the trails of Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Thursday, February 6. Leave from Waluga Park at 9:00 a.m. or meet at Tryon Creek parking lot, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.

BLOOD DRIVE. The need for blood is constant and this is where one individual can make a difference. Schedule your appointment to donate blood on February 7 at Lake Oswego City Hall from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 380 A Avenue.

WINE TASTING AT RICCARDO’S. Enjoy generous pours of Italy’s best wines, an antipasti plate and a great afternoon on Saturday, February 8 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

LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL. Celebrate the Year of the Snake on Saturday, February 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Library. Enjoy live musical and dance performances as well as activities for the kids and adults alike! 706 Fourth Street.

PORTLAND ROSE SOCIETY ROSE PRUNING CLINIC.Get ready for Spring with Portland Rose Society—local rose experts will be demonstrating proper rose pruning techniques and answering questions at Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue. Bring your hand pruners to be sharpened for FREE while you shop (no loppers; one pair per person). Soil pH testing will also be available—bring a small baggie of soil labeled with your name and contact information. Join the guest list.

NOISES OFF. Find out why this play is the most requested play to be restaged by Lakewood subscribers. Kicks off February 28 and runs through April 6. Tickets: $42/Adult; $40/Senior; $30/Student. Purchase online (with a $3 service fee). 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901.

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES OF THE OPENING OF THE LAKE OSWEGO RECREATION AND AQUATICS CENTER!

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Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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Enjoy stunning mountain views in new Skyland Drive listing

Posted on January 26, 2025 by lovelakeoswego
The Skylands neighborhood is known for its views and our new listing at 1131 Skyland Drive is proof of that with walls of windows throughout the house providing views of Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens

The iconic view of Mt. Hood as you are traveling east on A Avenue in downtown Lake Oswego is something we can all take advantage of here in Lake Oswego. But to be able to access that view from where you live, any time of day when it’s clear, well that’s something that you can only get from homes on certain streets in Lake Oswego.

Our new listing at 1131 Skylands Drive offers views not only of Mt. Hood but also Mt. St. Helens from walls of windows throughout the house. And the prized views are just one of the many features that make this home a Lake Oswego find.

Nestled on a beautifully landscaped one-acre lot, the 6,320 square foot gated residence seamlessly combines timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship with modern amenities.

The main level features a luxurious primary suite, an additional bedroom with an attached bath, a dedicated office, spacious living and dining rooms, and a gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances and marble countertops. Zoned HVAC and a sound system throughout provide personalized comfort and enjoyment, while a commercial-sized generator ensures uninterrupted convenience. The lower level boasts two additional bedrooms with a shared bath, a three-car garage, an elevator, abundant storage, a pool room with a kitchenette, ideal for entertaining, and a sauna with a full bath.

A thoughtfully curated outdoor space includes a pool and English garden and continues the theme of a stunning retreat with unobstructed views of Mt. Adams.

Tucked alongside the Skylands neighborhood area, residents enjoy the serenity afforded by the peaceful location while still enjoying the convenience of nearby shopping and close access to both Lakeridge High School and the new Lake Oswego Recreation and Aquatics Center.

Interested in seeing if this just might be your dream home? Give us a call to set up a showing. Or stop by the open house this Sunday, January 26 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com

Riley Costello 971.322.6205 riley.costello@cascadehasson.com

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Making the Most of the Winter Months in Lake Oswego

Posted on January 19, 2025 by lovelakeoswego

The good news is that the shortest day of the year is behind us. While we’ve sung the praises of summer in Lake Oswego on this blog, we must also be transparent and admit that yes, sometimes the winter months can seem looooooong. With colder temps, wetter weather and less daylight, summer lovers like us need to come up with a game plan to make the best of things.

Here are a few suggestions for not just surviving winter in the Portland metro area but actually enjoying it!

  1. Explore some new neighborhoods on foot. This is something my wife and I have done since Covid paid us all a visit. And while we explore Lake Oswego during the week, we often venture into Portland on the weekends and have had a great time checking out neighborhoods like Alameda Ridge, Laurelhurst, Irvington and Eastmoreland. For Christmas a couple of years ago, my wife gave me a couple books that have been great resources: Walk There! edited by Laura O. Foster and Portland Stair Walks by Laura Foster as well. Believe it or not, there are lots of stairs to be discovered in Portland, especially if you find yourselves in the Westover Terraces and Nob Hill neck of the woods. Bundle up but as you find yourselves climbing, you may need to shed a few layers!
  2. Go ice skating at the Winterhawks Ice Center. This iconic historic facility may be the official practice and development site for the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League, but there are plenty of opportunities for public skating too. Admission rates ($25/person; $20/person for groups of five or more; Free for ages 5 and under with paid chaperone) include skate rentals. Located at 9250 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway in Beaverton. There is an additional location in Sherwood. Check their website for details.
  3. Have fun in the snow. Lake Oswego is often blessed with a snow day or two when you can pull out your snow toys and be a kid again close to home. But if you don’t want to wait for that, make plans to head up to Mt. Hood for some snowshoeing or sledding. Warm up at Timberline Lodge with an Irish Coffee or some hot chocolate. Or register for the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Snowshoeing or Mt. Hood XC Ski activities. Check them out online.
  4. Discover a new coffee shop. One of the things my wife and I often seek out on our neighborhood excursions is coffee shops and as you can imagine, there are plenty to try in Portland. Some of our new favorites include Dear Sandy and Sisters Coffee Company .(And don’t forget our great coffee spots right here in Lake Oswego).
  5. Visit the Portland Winter Light Festival. The 2025 Portland Winter Light Festival (February 7 – 15) lights up the city with large-scale interactive art installations, performances, and pop-up pieces in storefronts, retail spaces, front yards and public spaces across Portland. Anchor sites include Pioneer Courthouse Square, the World Trade Center Plaza and the Electric Blocks at SE 2nd and Clay. You can join in the fun by decorating yourself with lights, join the Illuminated Bike Ride or the Lantern Parade. Last year over 270,000 people attended with over 90% of them saying they’d come back.

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