Maher’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival Keeps Irish Eyes Smiling in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Posted on March 11, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

happy st. patrick's day by Ron Bird freedigitalphots dot netMaher’s Irish Brew Pub is hosting its fourth annual St. Patrick’s Day festival starting this Thursday, March 14 and running through Sunday, March 17 at 352 B Avenue in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Since I am 100 percent Irish, I figured I was qualified to take a little liberty with some Irish proverbs to convince you why you should check it out.

♣The cheaper the beer, the better the taste. Get there Thursday for Feckin beer specials all night. For every one your purchase, you’ll receive a raffle ticket for a drawing for a 10 day trip to Ireland.

If beer’s not your libation of choice, how about a Dancing Leprechaun or Galway Special to celebrate the occasion? You could also do a taste comparison between a 12 year and 18 year Jameson Irish whiskey and a 10 year Tullamore Dew. And don’t forget the saying, “Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all the four essential food groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.” You’ll find that at Maher’s too.

♣Festive is the bar that’s with music. From bagpipes to the Celtic sounds of local musicians like Bill Mullen (Drill, Ye Tarriers) and The Lost Highwaymen (Galway Girl), Maher’s will be downright jubilant, swinging, upbeat and jumping. Get your Irish groove on.

♣Man does not live by Irish soda bread alone. But if he wanted to, he might try one of the entrants in Maher’s Irish Soda Bread Contest. Entries are to be delivered Saturday, March 16, between 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Winners in three categories will be announced at 3:00 p.m.: traditional white, traditional brown and glorified. Need a little more to go on? Check out traditional Irish fare including Lamb Stew, Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers and Mash. Or make reservations for a traditional Irish breakfast served from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day. Minimum party of 15.

♣Dance as if everyone was watching you. That’s the motto the Irish dancers who will be performing at Maher’s live by. My daughters studied Irish dance with Gay Maher, one of the pub’s proprietors and I can attest to the high energy these high steppers display. If you can burn calories by watching, you’re in luck because these dancers are going through at least 300 calories an hour. Time to order another beer!

♣Even if you’re not lucky enough to be Irish, you might be lucky enough. That is, if you buy enough Feckin beers. Starting back on September 22 (halfway to St. Paddy’s day), any lad or lassie who purchased a Feckin beer at Maher’s received a ticket for a trip to Ireland drawing. You can still get your name entered—just order up before 7:50 p.m. on Friday, March 15 when the winning ticket will be drawn. Then two lucky people can start planning their 10 day vacation including meals, lodging, airfare and a tour of their choice through Jenny’s Irish Tours.

♣May you be blessed with the laughter of children. Should be easy if you bring them to Maher’s on Family Day, March 16 beginning at 12:00 noon. Activities include face painting, crafts, Irish wolfhounds, Lucky Irish Coins and Irish dancers.

Receive updates on 52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego by hitting the Sign me up button in the top right hand column. Every week you’ll find another reason why Lake Oswego, Oregon is such a great place to live!

Photo credit: Ron Bird at freedigitalphotos.net

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Lake Oswego Offers Fun Options for Kids During Spring Break

Posted on March 4, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

FUN by Stuart Miles freedigitalphotos dot netWhile Lake Oswego doesn’t offer sunny ocean beaches or thrill-seeking amusement rides, local agencies and businesses do have quite a bit of fun lined up for kids who will be home for Spring Break. From cooking classes to ski and snowboard camps, check out these options for when school’s out later this month.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OFFERINGS. Register at their website.

■Lifeguard Review Class for ages 15+. Saturday, March 30 through Sunday, March 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the District Pool, 2455 SW Country Club Road in Lake Oswego. Fee: $175.

■Lifeguard Training for ages 15+. First you must pass a swim test on Friday, March 23 from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. at the District Pool. Classes held Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the District Pool, 2455 SW Country Club Road in Lake Oswego. Fee: $230.

■Acting Clubs for Grades K-4 and 5-9. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., ending with a performance the last day of class. Multipurpose room at Lake Oswego High School, 2455 SW Country Club Road in Lake Oswego. Fee: $155.

■Cup Stacking for Boys and Girls in grades 1-5. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Westridge Elementary School, 3400 Royce Way in Lake Oswego. Fee: $55.

■Games, Games, Games for Boys and Girls in grades 1-2 ($55 fee) and 3-5 ($65 fee). Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Westridge Elementary School, 3400 Royce Way in Lake Oswego.

■Jump Rope for Boys and Girls in Grades 1-5. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Westridge Elementary School, 3400 Royce Way in Lake Oswego. Fee: $75.

LAKE OSWEGO PARKS AND RECREATION OFFERINGS. Register on their website.

■Fairy Princess Camp for ages 4-7 includes games, dance, crafts and team parties. Monday, March 25 through Tuesday, March 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 2;00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4010 Kruse Way, Lake Oswego. Fee: $66/resident; $76/non-resident.

■Farm Explorations for ages 5-7 includes arts and crafts, songs and games. Wednesday, March 27-Thursday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Road, West Linn. Fee: 33/resident; $38/non-resident.

■Lego® Fun Pre-Engineering Camp for ages 5-6 offers a chance to build houses, pyramids, bridges and more. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4010 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego. Fee: $155/resident; $178/non-resident.

■Engineering FUNdamentals with Legos® for ages 7-11 encourages Lego® novices as well as maniacs to build motorized machines, catapults, bridges and more. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4010 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego. Fee: $155 resident/$278/non-resident.

■LO Explorers Junkyard Love for ages 6-12 looks at junk in new ways with activities like Bingo board clocks and bottle cap wind chimes. Spend Friday at OMSI. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4010 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego.  After Camp Care is also offered for two hours before and after camp each day for an additional weekly charge. Fee: $210/resident; $240/non-resident. Fee with Camp Care: $260/resident; $298/non-resident.

■Ski and Snowboard Camp at Mt. Hood Meadows for ages 7-12 includes transportation, full day lesson, hot lunch for season pass holders and lift and equipment rental for additional fees for others. Bus leaves from West End Building at 4010 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego and takes campers to buses leaving from Tualatin Park and Ride. Thursday, March 28 from 6:15 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. and Friday, March 29 from 7:00 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. Fee: varies from $267 to $360 depending on residency and what options included: lift, equipment rental.

■Smith Rock Overnight Camp for ages 11-17 offers rock climbing, hiking and camping out under the stars through the Adventures Without Limits program. Tuesday, March 26 through Friday, March 29. Fee: $344/resident; $396/non-resident. Contact AWL for pickup locations: (503) 359-2568

■Lake Oswego Skate Park open from Monday, March 25 through Saturday, March 30 from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. at 5520 Willow Road in Lake Oswego. 503.675.2549. This is a membership based park with fees: $4/one day pass; $30/resident annual pass; $50/non-resident annual pass.

MOUNTAIN PARK KIDZONE. Register in person at Mountain Park Clubhouse, 2 Mt. Jefferson Terrace in Lake Oswego. 503.635.3561

■Spring Break Camp for ages 5-12 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 includes sports, arts and crafts, games and more at Mountain Park Rec Center, 2 Mt. Jefferson Terrace. Full Week Fee: $125/ Mt. Park residents with $100 for each additional sibling, ;$175/non-members with $150 for each additional sibling. Full Day Fee: $35/members with $30 for each additional sibling; $45/non-members with $40 for each additional sibling.

■Swim Lessons offered Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29. Times vary depending on class level. Fee for five lessons: $40/members/$60 non-members.

IN GOOD TASTE. 6302 SW Meadows Road. 503.248.2015.   Register online.

■Hands On Kids Spring Break Camp for ages 7-12 where aspiring chefs explore the cuisines of three countries: France, Italy and China and learn to make such treats as crepes, homemade pasta and homemade fortune cookies. Monday, March 25 through Wednesday, March 27 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Fee includes tuition, meal and recipes: $195.

LAKEWOOD THEATRE COMPANY. Classes held at the Lakewood Center, 368 S. State Street, Lake Oswego. 503.635.3901. Download a registration form here.

■Kids Create-Adventures in Fairytales for ages 4-6 features theatre games, stories, art, music, and dance while students get the opportunity to perform every day. Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Session 1) and 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Session 2). $100/session.

■Magic for Everyone for ages 7-87 introduces you to the basics of magic from a master magician on Monday, March 25 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Fee: $25.

TRYON CREEK NATURE DAY CAMPS. 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd., Portland, OR. 503.636.4398. Register online.

■Monday, March 25: Baby Birds for grades K-1 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. $27/members;$31/non-members.

■Tuesday, March 26: Seeds and Sprouts in Spring for grades K-1 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. $27/members; $31/non-members.

■Wednesday, March 27: Forest Fairies and Gnome Homes for grades 1-4 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. $42/members; $47/non-members.

■Thursday, March 28: Journey to the Micro Universe for grades 1-4 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. $42/members; $47/non-members.

■Friday, March 29: Coyotes for grades K-1 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. $27/members;$31/non-members.

LAKE OSWEGO PUBLIC LIBRARY. 706 Fourth Street.

■Puppet show: A Tale of Two Tricksters with Penny’s Puppet Productions on Wednesday, March 7 from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Free.

If you’re considering moving to or moving within Lake Oswego and are here for Spring Break, I’d be happy to show you around. Just give me a call at 503.939.9801.

Photo credit: Taken by Stuart Miles at freedigitalphotos.net

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Why Lawrence Welk Would Think the Windjammer’s Variety Show is Wunnerful, Wunnerful

Posted on February 25, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

Windjammer-logo-12jan-page0001 reduced(2)Lawrence Welk knew what American television audiences wanted and delivered just that over the 27 years his show ran from 1955 to 1982. Harkening back to “those good old days,” the theme for this year’s Lake Oswego High School Windjammer Variety Show is “Call Me Old Fashioned.” Here’s why Welk himself would love to be in the audience.

  1. TOP QUALITY VOCALISTS. Windjammers is an auditioned elite choir that features the best that Lake Oswego High School choir director Cole Blume has to offer. Students go through a selective process where they must prove their skill in not only singing but reading music and learning songs quickly. “That’s important,” Blume explains, “because Windjammers do three to four dozen pieces a year—about four times more than any of the other choirs sing.”
  2. SCHMALTZ. Welk was known for his wholesome brand of entertainment and classic sound. “This year we are really going for something that looks that way, sounds that way, but also feels that way to people,” explains Blume. So expect to see good singing, snappy dancing, elegant costumes, a live band, an accordion player, and yes, bubble machines.
  3. RIGOROUS REHEARSAL SCHEDULE. Welk was known to demand commitment from his performers. Windjammer members have been working on the Variety Show since September when they first started brainstorming song choices. Five weeks of rehearsals lead up to opening night.
  4. BIG BAND SOUND. For the past three years Lake Oswego’s Jazz Band has performed with Windjammers in the Variety Show. One of the criteria for song choice selection is published band accompaniment.
  5. VARIETY. In addition to the Windjammers, the Jazz Band, a girls’ and boys’ barbershop quartet, seven solos, and dancing, forty elementary students will perform onstage during the “Old Time Rock n Roll” number. They participated in a day camp put on by the Windjammers earlier in the year and this is their 5 minutes of fame.
  6. CLASSIC PLAY LIST. Some of the hits featured include: “Feeling Good” (released in 1965 but updated by artists like Michael Bublé), “I Won’t Dance” (a Frank Sinatra hit), and the Judy Garland/Barbra Streisand duet, “Happy Days Are Here Again/C’mon Get Happy.”

Show dates and times are Thursday, February 28, Friday, March 1 (includes the Windjammer Camp Kids), Saturday, March 2, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10/General Admission, $8/children, seniors and students. Lake Oswego High School Auditorium, 2501 Country Club Road.

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10 Reasons Why George Bailey Would Love the First Addition Neighborhood in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Posted on February 18, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

FANGeorge Bailey thought he wanted to leave his small hometown behind but in the end of It’s a Wonderful Life, he realizes that Bedford Falls has everything he needs. People who are lucky enough to live in the First Addition Neighborhood in Lake Oswego, Oregon probably feel the same way. Here’s why:

  1. Charm. From the quaint cottages to the picket fences, the neighborhood oozes with a small town feel. Country Living named the First Addition Neighborhood (FAN) as one of the 10 Best Cottage Communities in 2006.
  2. Walkability. The neighborhood is designed to be pedestrian friendly with tree canopied streets, front porches where folks actually sit and call out to you, and commercial and retail establishments within walking distance. It was picked as one of 10 Great Neighborhoods in America by the American Planning Association in 2007 as a testament to how well it works.
  3. Eclectic. “There is a healthy mix of housing types,” explains First Addition/Forest Hills Neighborhood Association Chair, Carole Ockert “with houses, apartments, condominiums, and storefront townhomes.” Cookie cutter architecture this is not, with homes that draw from a variety of styles: English cottage, craftsman, bungalow, ranch, Gothic and Prairie. As a result, residents represent a mix of old, young, empty nesters and young families just starting out.
  4. Amenities. You can get a feel for how much this neighborhood packs into 120 acres when you realize all that you’ll find here: an award winning public library, post office, small private community pool, and city park.
  5. Alleys. Twenty foot wide alleys contribute to the welcoming nature of the streetscape. Garage access to many of the homes is from these alleyways and in fact, the neighborhood plan stipulates that new homes need to incorporate this feature into their design.
  6. History. The First Addition was first platted in 1888 and is home to several historic structures and some of the oldest trees and gardens in the city. Check out the 130 year old sugar maple on the corner of Third and C or the over 130 year old American Elm on First Street between B and C.
  7. Easy commute. For many First Addition residents, the commute to work means walking a few blocks down to the Tri-Met Transit Center at Fourth and A Avenue and hopping on a bus for a thirty minute ride to downtown Portland.
  8. Forest Hills School. Just outside the First Addition boundaries, Forest Hills Elementary is still within walking distance for many neighborhood residents. The playground and fields are popular spots for families on weekends and after school.
  9. Shopping district. From groceries to office supplies, haircuts to shoe repair, First Addition residents don’t have to travel far to take care of their needs. “We see the stores and the people who run those businesses as part of our neighborhood,” explains Ockert. They serve on association committees addressing issues such as parking or traffic. “We believe in the vitality of those businesses so we encourage people to shop local and I think the merchants care about that too so they are very responsive to our concerns. It’s a good symbiotic relationship,” she adds.
  10. Active neighborhood association. The people who live and work here are invested in protecting the quality of life they enjoy as spelled out in their neighborhood plan, “The First Addition neighborhood of the future will be much like the First Addition neighborhood of today.” In recent years, FAN merged with the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association so while they maintain their individual boundaries, they embrace one neighborhood plan. In addition to monthly meetings, they host an annual get-together, typically in May. This year’s will feature an ice cream social to welcome all the newcomers into the neighborhood.

Homes in the First Addition range in price between $175,000 and $1.25 million. If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities of living here, give me a call. Besides living here, I’m a Realtor in Lake Oswego and I’d love to show you around.

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10 Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Posted on February 11, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

Valentine's Day Marriage by Salvatore Vuono with freedigitalphotos.net

Let Lake Oswego businesses help you say, “I love you,” in a way your valentine will remember this year. Here are a few ideas:

♥Sweeten the message. Chocolates by Bernard can help. The traditionalist will find red velvet heart boxes filled with gourmet chocolates in two sizes, both with plenty for sharing that start at $36. Or select a dark chocolate champagne split filed with four champagne truffles for only $19.50.

Got a gluten free valentine on your list? Then head over to Crave Bake Shop where valentine offerings will include pop hearts (a gluten free cousin to pop tarts), mini cakes for two, raspberry passion fruit bars, and red velvet and champagne cupcakes. Chocolates by Bernard: 440 5th Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 888.829.6800; Crave Bake Shop: 460 5th Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.212.2979.

♥Pamper yourselves. Rumi Simone offers a couples spa package, The Perfect Romantic Duet. You’ll enjoy a royal bath in the duet suite followed by a rain shower and finished off with side-by-side 60 minute aromatherapy massages. The $375 fee includes champagne, chocolate, and gratuity. 345 1st Street, Suite 107, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.699.8899.

♥Woo her over candlelight. Make reservations at one of our local restaurants. Manzana’s is offering a Sweethearts Dinner Package with your choice of two land and sea combinations, two glasses of champagne, and dessert for two for $60. Plus enter for a chance to win a three day, two night Las Vegas getaway. Zeppo is featuring three specials including heart shaped lobster ravioli with champagne cream sauce($14.95), a macademia nut encrusted mahi mahi with mango papaya relish ($21.95) and Italian herb encrusted top sirloin with lemon roasted garlic compound butter ($22.95). Manzana Rotisserie Grill: 305 1st Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.675.3322; Zeppo Italian Restaurant: 345 1st Street, #105, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.675.2726.

♥Enjoy a lover’s feast. Watch this specially designed meal take shape before your very eyes in this demonstration style class taught by Chef Wendy Lincoln at In Good Taste. Tips and samples will be offered along the way as you indulge in a coursed meal beginning with small aphrodisiacal plates like northwest oysters on the half shell, followed by beef wellington and a chocolate tartlett. $125/person. Register online. Begins at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 14. 6302 SW Meadows Rd., Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.248.2015.

♥Check in at The Grand Hotel. The Lakewood Theatre Company is in its final days of this production. Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. showing are $35/adults, $32/seniors 65 and over, $20/students 25 and under. 368 S. State Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.635.3901.

♥Accessorize. Michelle Obama has jewelry on her Valentine’s wish list. If it’s good enough for the First Lady, it should be good enough for yours. Check out the heart jewelry at Accessories from the Heart. Owner Carol Winston is happy to share other gift ideas with you too such as red handbags and charming print pajamas. Let her help you look good. Accessories from the Heart: 220 A Avenue, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503. 675.1144

♥Date night. Holding hands in a movie theater—that will take you back, and score some points for being romantic. This week the Lake Twin Cinema is playing  two Oscar nominated films: the off-beat romantic comedy-drama, Silver Linings Playbook, and Argo, the dramatization of a covert operation to rescue six American hostages from Iran. Want to spend more time with your sweetie? Grab a drink or a bite to eat before or after the show at Stickmen’s Brewery & Skewery right down the block. Lake Twin Cinema: 106 N. State Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.635.5956; Stickmen’s: 40 N. State Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.344.4449.

♥Explore together. Join the Parks and Recreation’s Winter Walk for Valentine’s Day to Urban East Portland. Explore the happening area of Mississippi Avenue, Albina Triangle complete with eclectic shops and coffee stops. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way and carpool from there. Don’t tell her it’s a cheap date—only $3 per person (she doesn’t have to know).

♥Show her love is in bloom. A recent survey showed that 75 percent of men have given flowers to their valentines in the past two years. Let a local florist like R Bloom’s help you put a different twist on this tradition. How about a heart shaped wreath crafted out of pussy willow or a lovely anthurium plant with its heart shaped petals? Of course, if you want roses, they’ve got ’em, along with tulips and other flowers they can combine in a custom bouquet. R. Bloom’s, 267 A Avenue, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.636.5876.

♥Find your valentine. For all you singles out there, Maher’s Irish Brew Pub is hosting its third annual speed dating night on Valentine’s Day beginning at 7:00 p.m. Drink specials include $1 off all beers and a free glass of champagne to all participants. 352 B Avenue, Lake Oswego, Oregon, 503.305.8087.

The National Retail Federation says the average American will spend $130.97 on Valentine’s Day this year. How do you plan on spending yours? If you’ve got some different ideas, let us know.

Photo Credit: taken by Salvatore Vuono at freedigitalphotos.net

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7 Wintry Things To Do in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Posted on February 4, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

Winter taken by digitalart at freedigitalphotos.netRecently my daughter sent me a link to a Jimmy Kimmel skit where he was complaining about the 55 degree “cold snap,” in Los Angeles. “It was so cold I had to wear two tank tops to work,” Kimmel joked.

Weather is relative. Fifty-five degrees in February is chilly in Southern California but warm in Lake Oswego, Oregon where recent memory includes a January “cold snap” of 36 degree highs and lows in the 20s. One of the reasons people love living in Lake Oswego is because of the four seasons. Winter is here and it’s cold, so how do Lake Oswegans make the most of it?

●Hitch a ride on the skibus. The Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Bus provides a midweek getaway on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from nearby locations.

●Sign up for a winter hike. The Parks and Recreation Department offers Thursday walks at destinations no more than an hour away. One of February’s most intriguing itineraries is billed “Travel on the Five T’s” and includes a ride on a Tri Met bus, the Portland Trolley, a Max-Train, a hike on the Marquam Trail and a ride back down to the Tri Met bus on the OHSU Tram.

●Go in search of the perfect cup of coffee. There are ten Starbucks locations alone as well as a Peets. But don’t stop there. Try some local favorites like Chuck’s Place, Coffee Nook, or Blue Moon. And if tea is more to your liking, then Lady Di’s awaits you.

●Hunker down with a good book. Fill out the Lake Oswego Library’s reader profile and a librarian will use your answers to generate a customized list of book recommendations.

●Save 20 percent off golf lessons at the Lake Oswego Golf Course. Want to improve your swing or lower your handicap? Take advantage of this special winter promotion good on individual lessons until February 28.

●Start your plants from seeds. Learn how and save money on your spring planting in this course taught at Luscher Farms.

●Take in a high school basketball game. This year’s Lake Oswego Boys Varsity team is currently ranked #10 nationally. Their next home game is Tuesday, February 5 against Canby. Catch them play their cross-town rivals, the Lakeridge Pacers on Tuesday, February 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Lakeridge High School, 1235 SW Overlook Dr. Come early and catch the girls teams compete at 6:00 p.m.

            What’s your favorite way to while away the winter days in Lake Oswego?

Photo credit: taken by digitalart at freedigitalphotos.net

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Step It Up Studios Hosts LO Reads Opening Party This Saturday

Posted on January 28, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

step it up logo (2)Time to let your inner Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers out? Why not check out Step It Up Studios Lakeside Ballroom Society at 101 A Avenue in Lake Oswego, this Saturday, February 2, at 6:00 p.m. as they host the opening party for the LO Reads program.

The event is free and includes champagne and appetizers, a group class teaching you four of the most popular social dances, followed by a demonstration by award winning dancers and time to practice what you’ve learned on the dance floor. You’ll also receive a pass for a complimentary private lesson for a later date. RSVP by February 1 to 503.744.0105.

Not sure social dancing is for you? Neither was Larry Fox. He didn’t start kicking up his heels until he was 58. Now seven years later he  travels from Aloha to downtown Lake Oswego three times a week to step on to the ballroom floor at Step It Up Studios.

Fox is not alone. Step It Up has over 200 members who sign up for a combination of personal lessons, group classes and socials. Check out some of the reasons they put on their dancing shoes.

  1. It’s fun. For the last year and a half, Fran Dishman has been going to Step It Up Studios three to four times a week. “Everybody has so much fun and it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner, if you’ve danced a lot or are somewhere in between.” Check out the film clip of the “Shall We Dance?” scene from The King and I. Even the stern-faced King of Siam, played by Yul Brynner, cracks a smile as he counts, “1-2-3” while whirling Deborah Kerr around the dance floor.
  2. THE INSTRUCTORS ARE TOP RATE. Owner Kristy Higgins brings over 18 years of musical theater and ballroom training into the studio. Between her and her partner, Stas Trilisky, they hold 19 dance championships. But it’s not just what they know that members value. “More importantly, they care about what they’re doing,” explains Fox. And they know how to teach.
  3. PERSONALIZED INSTRUCTION. Members buy packages based on the number of lessons they want and move along at their own pace. All you have to do to become a member is take your first free lesson. Sign up on their website.
  4. Exercise. Dancing provides a great cardio workout. When in doubt, check out the weight loss claims of recent Dancing With the Stars contestants: Gladys Knight shed 60 pounds, Chaz Bono lost 18, and Kirstie Alley claims to have lost 100 and dropped 10 dress sizes since her first appearance on the show. Depending on your tempo and the style of dance, you can burn anywhere from 130 to over 500.
  5. IT’S A GREAT DATE NIGHT FOR COUPLES. Mike and Sue Richmond have been dancing at Step It Up since it opened. “It’s something we can work on together,” he explains. Larry Fox agrees that partner dancing can be good for relationships. “When you move well together, it’s an exquisite experience.”
  6. DANCER’S HIGH. Runners don’t have the market cornered on this feeling of euphoria. Dancers can feel it too. “For me, it’s when it becomes something you do without having to think about it and you’re actually with the music, you feel like you’re flying—it’s a feeling that’s not unlike a really great downhill ski run,” explains Mike Richmond.
  7. COMPETITION. Last year Higgins and Trilisky traveled with eight studio members to the Caribbean Dancesport Classic Competition in Puerto Rico and ended up coming home champions. Higgins and Trilisky won first and second place awards in the Best Teacher category, Step It Up was named the top studio, and each member won the first place award in each of their divisions.
  8. SPECIAL OCCASIONS. Step It Up instructors often work with couples and wedding parties who want to make a good impression on the dance floor.
  9. PRIVATE PARTIES. Higgins also books events in her studio and has hosted rehearsal dinners, corporate parties, bar mitzvahs, and even weddings. She and her staff work with clients to tailor the event package to the client’s budget, with offerings ranging from champagne and cheese plates to sit down dinners for 150.
  10. CHANCE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW. At 58 Larry Fox was a latecomer to the ballroom floor but after seven years he admits,  “I’m dancing at a level I never would have imagined.”

Got a favorite business in Lake Oswego, Oregon, you’d like readers to know about? Leave your comments here.

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Who Needs the Wine Country When You Live in Lake Oswego, Oregon?

Posted on January 21, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

World Class winesBenjamin Franklin once said, “Wine is constant proof that God loves us and loves to see us happy.” Come Friday nights in Lake Oswego, you’ll find a group of 50-100 wine lovers gathered at World Class Wines who are very happy indeed. They have discovered that you don’t have to travel to the wine country to enjoy and learn about wine. You can do it right in town. Here’s how.

●Show up at one of World Class Wines Friday night wine tastings. Offerings include six wines for $10 with cheese and crackers or 8 wines for $15. Resident wine geek, Rick Baldwin, is usually pouring, sometimes with the help of local winemakers or distributors. He provides tasting notes along with answers to any questions you may have about how the wine is made, what to pair it with or how it compares to the vintages you tried the week before.

Regulars come for the camaraderie as much as the education. “You feel like you are at a neighborhood party,” explains Vicki Kozlowski .  “We have made many good friends at the tastings and learned a great deal about wine while having a very good time.”

Friday night tastings are date nights for Kirk and Sheri MacDowell. “An evening at World Class Wines is really an event,” MacDowell explains. “It can be a bit intimidating for first timers,” he admits, but “the regulars understand that and within minutes people introduce themselves and more regulars are born.”

●Take a tour of the shop with wines organized in sections to make it easier for you to get around: $15 and under, rosé, Oregon wines, $15-30, champagne-bubbly-and dessert wines, and a fine wine room of  $30 and above featuring hard-to-find wines, aged wines, and verticals. “Wine can be overwhelming for people,” Baldwin explains, “That’s why we have it divided by price so you can hang out where you are comfortable spending.”

●Enroll in the wine club. It’s customized to suit your tastes. You pick the price level for two bottles of wine ($30, $50, $75), frequency (monthly, every other month or quarterly), and type (one red and one white, two reds or two whites). Baldwin will tailor the selections especially for you.

●Sign up for one of the monthly Saturday night premium tastings which feature pours from the fine wine room/private cellars and catered appetizers. Space is limited and reservations needed. Tasting fee is $50.

●Schedule a private group tasting. Work with Olson and Baldwin to tailor a night with friends or co-workers.

●See if you can stump Baldwin. Co-owner Susan Olson says it hasn’t happened yet. But Baldwin is up to the challenge. He’s comfortable talking with wine novices as well as connoisseurs because he has been both. Baldwin admits to drinking wine on ice before tasting a Silver Oak Cabernet in the early 80s. “It was like an aha moment,” he explains. “That afternoon I went home, subscribed to every wine publication and started collecting wine.” His private cellar held 4,000 bottles at one point. The guy has done his research.

World Class Wines is located at 269 Southwest A Avenue  Lake Oswego, OR 97034. (503) 974-9841.

Got a favorite spot in Lake Oswego you’d like to let readers know about? Give a shout-out here.

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Preschool Forum is One Reason to Check Out the Lake Oswego Mothers Club

Posted on January 14, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

Lake Oswego Mothers ClubThe Lake Oswego Mothers Club and Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department are co-sponsoring the 8th annual Preschool Forum on Thursday, January 17, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the West End Building at 4101 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego. Over 35 local schools will be on site to answer your questions about their teaching philosophy, curriculum, tuition and more so if you are in the market, here’s a chance to do your one-stop shopping.

The Preschool Forum was the idea that launched the Lake Oswego Mothers Club in 2005. Since then, it has grown to include much more. If you are a mother of young kids, here’s why you should check it out.

1. Playgroups. Playgroups are what draw many women into the club. With over 30 to choose from, there is bound to be one that fits your schedule whether you are a working mom or choosing to stay at home.

2. Children’s Events. Club President Ivonne Flores estimates that half of the club’s programming involves children’s events. That may include Gymboree classes, gymnastics or a meet-up at a local trampoline fun center. Cost is never more than $5.

3. Mom Events. With little ones under foot, it’s hard to carve out “me” time, but monthly Mom’s Night Out events make it easier. Events have included happy hour, Bunco, wine tasting and an upcoming 80s night at the Crystal Ballroom. Socials are held twice a year and include a speaker and a chance to mingle over wine and appetizers.

4. Community Events. Outreach is a big component of the Lake Oswego Mothers Club both to members in need and the larger community. In a Pinch volunteers deliver meals to new moms or members who need extra support. Every year, the club selects a charity to support and then organizes philanthropic events to benefit that organization. This year the club is hosting a Mom’s Prom complete with tacky gowns to raise money for Rose Haven which provides services to women and children in crisis.  The Giving Tree is also an annual event with 2012 donations going to the Clackamas Women’s Shelter. In addition, the club sponsors booths at the Lake Oswego Arts Festival Kids’ Day, and the Farmer’s Market.

5. SubClubs. You can find like-minded women through the SubClubs that bring members together to share their interests in a variety of activities like reading, cooking, running or business.

While the programs may be what bring moms initially to the groups, Flores admits that “It ends up being more.” Friendships are formed and support is found, which to a new mom, in particular, can be key. “When you become a mom, your whole life changes,” Flores explains. “For a lot of people, me included, it can be lonely. It’s nice to have other moms who are going through something similar or have been through it to talk to and relate to. For me, it changed how I viewed motherhood. I felt more comfortable with it.”

With over 300 club members from the Portland metro area, chances are you will meet someone whose toddler is a picky eater, whose 12 month old still isn’t sleeping through the night or whose preschooler cries at drop-off. Your tribe awaits you.

Got any preschool recommendations to make? Post them here for readers to benefit from.

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Discover 28 Ways Lake Oswego Reads brings the community together through books

Posted on January 7, 2013 by lovelakeoswego

loreads13_blue reduced (2)The Lake Oswego Reads program is in its seventh year featuring the compelling tale, Running the Rift by Naomi Benaron. A 2010 Bellwether Prizewinner for Socially Engaged Fiction, the story is set in Rwanda amidst Hutu-Tutsi tensions as seen through the eyes of a gifted athletic young boy whose Olympic dreams run into the harsh reality of genocide.

It is a story sure to prompt discussion and reflection, thanks in large part to the 28 activities the Lake Oswego Public Library has scheduled throughout the town. From a documentary film screening on one man’s survival to a panel discussion on Olympic dreams, the program ensures that conversations in Lake Oswego during the month of February will be centered around this dark chapter in recent history and what we can learn from it.

Here are a few highlights of opportunities to join in the community conversation:

January 7th: Kickoff and Book Giveaway. Bring your library card to receive a free copy of Running the Rift and enjoy some Rwandan cuisine. Limited number of copies are available so arrive early. 6:30 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

February 1: Presentation by Carl Wilkens. Wilkens was the only American who chose to stay in Rwanda after the genocide began in 1994. Hear his perspective on how this tragedy came to be as well as what life in Rwanda is like today. 7:00 p.m. Lake Oswego City Hall, 380 A Avenue.

February 7: Art Unveiling Reception and Month-long Art Show. See how 19 different artists interpret Running the Rift in original works on display at Graham’s Book & Stationery. Then stroll over to Chrisman Picture Frame & Gallery to see how local high school students incorporated themes of the book into their artwork. Artwork will be on display and for sale for the month of February. 6:00-7:30 p.m. Graham’s Book & Stationery at 460 Second Street and Chrisman Picture Frame & Gallery, 480 Second Street.

February 20: Hear the Author: Portrait of the Author as a Young Rock Hound: How a Scientist Came to Write about Rwanda. Hear firsthand how this scientist-first, author-second, came to write this book. Admission is free but a ticket is required. Tickets will be available at the Lake Oswego Library starting at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 19.  Arrive early.  There will be a two ticket per person limit and a Lake Oswego library card is required. 7:00 p.m., Lake Oswego High School, 2501 Country Club Road.

February 25: Trivia Bowl Competition. Enter this team based trivia bowl competition based on the book. Example: what color scarf did Jean Patrick wear? (Answer: green). Prizes will be awarded. 7:00 p.m. Chuck’s Place, 148 B Avenue.

A complete schedule can be found on the Lake Oswego Public Library website.

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