PDX Says...

Beach Chic: What's Old is New Again with Retro Swimwear

2009-06-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

By M. Clarissa Fong | Photos by Cambrae of Daniel James Productions

At the bottom of every dresser lies the inevitable reminder that summer is here: swimwear. Unlike staple items that most shoppers buy by the armful, the perfect swimsuit is a seasonal nightmare for those who live under perpetual cloud cover. Finding the ideal blend of Lycra and spandex can truly be an exhausting, frustrating search and many would rather forego the beach or pool altogether in order to avoid the hunt.
Fortunately, Portland offers a plethora of options for anyone hoping to brave the sun and sand this year—with a bit of retro flair. This season is all about flirty, fun swimwear styled with details from the past that suit both the teens and 40-somethings of today. Don’t know the difference between a tankini and monokini? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered (figuratively, of course).

As a general rule of thumb, think about your figure before you shop (and be honest) to fully accentuate the positive. Developing a shopping strategy in advance will minimize the fitting room meltdowns. At Popina’s Swim and Sportswear (4831 NE 42nd Ave., 282-5159, popinaswimwear.com), the hourglass shape of the female form is celebrated with ’40s and ’50s finesse. Owner and designer Pamela Levenson was inspired by the influence of days gone by but with the modern convenience of today’s fabric innovations and bathing suit construction. Popina offers pieces for both the active girl and the beach bum. “With swimwear, it’s about variety,” says Levenson, who complements her own designs with specialty vendors such as Perry Ellis, Tommy Bahama, Swim System and L*Space. If you want to de-emphasize your rear-end, consider Popina’s solid plum drawstring boy shorts paired with colorful geocentric retro halters to highlight your best assets. To dress up the staple one-piece, add a scarf tied bandana-style at the waist or cover up with a printed wrap, both of which are offered at this “delicatessen of swimsuits.”

Continuing this trend of old-school modesty, Seattle-based designer Heidi Fish (206-938-9927, heidifish.com) combines wild animal prints with basic black to craft a charming silhouette reminiscent of the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s. Fish’s philosophy of taking elements from one era and transforming it into something new was inspired by her grandmother, who was a head designer for Saks Fifth Avenue during the height of the retro revolution. The Honey Bea Collection capitalizes on the trends of the season, including tropical themes, iridescent hues and bold color block patterns. Fish’s red and white polka dot halter with faux wrap-tie bikini bottoms compliments curvy gals. For petites bodies, try tops with ruching, ruffles, vibrant patterns or decorative hardware to build shape around the bust. Knowing how to incorporate clever detailing to draw the eye to the assets of a figure or to camouflage problem areas is paramount to great swimwear design, but if all else fails, Heidi Fish also crafts custom pieces as well.

Back in P-Town, Lille Boutique (1007 E Burnside, 232-0333, lilleboutique.com), known for romantic lingerie and sexy nightgowns, is one of a few U.S. retailers to carry a select collection by famed swimsuit designer Malia Mills of New York. Operating on the philosophy to “love thy differences,” the superior fit and fashion of these suits are guaranteed to last more than one season. For example, the “Dreamboat” is suggestive of the early ’20s and ’30s silent screen stars with its careful ruching detailing around the V-maillot design. “If the suit doesn’t fit properly, it’s the suit’s fault,” says Sarah Wizemann, owner of Lille. The boutique also carries swimwear by up-and-comers The Lake & Star, which plays with the brand’s iconic tongue-in-cheek sexiness with ultra-low necklines and high-cut leg-lines. Halter-top tankinis, some of which can be converted to strapless garments, have the added bonus of allowing sunbathers to lower the top straps to avoid weird tan lines. Lille also carries Hoff by Hoff Copenhagen, which offers a darling ruffle halterneck that is both comfortable and affordable to fit this bill.

For even more selection from this generation of glam, Jantzen Swimwear’s (multiple locations, jantzen.com) 2009 collection was born from the glamour of old Hollywood. Lisa Dixon, senior designer, wanted to mold an anthology that reflected the combination of classic vintage with contemporary detailing. Serving the Northwest since 1910, Jantzen’s current line includes retro inspired maillots, ultra-high waisted belted bottoms, tiny bandeau tops and ruffled corset-like tankinis. Jantzen’s “Vamp” swimsuit continues as the brand’s staple item, yet evolves into a two-piece with three different color stories this season (tropical, black and white, and bright summer), all with bold, exciting prints inspired by the archives. The new line pays homage to the company’s heritage and signifies the true meaning of “what's old is new again.” Just remember to wear a smile with that Jantzen.

If the sport of tanning is more up your alley, American Apparel (3412 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 231-0043 or 1234 SW Stark St, 721-0700, americanapparel.com) sells quality merchandise at solid prices. If you do more posing than swimming, then the belle of the pool would enjoy sexy bandage-style, suspender swimsuits and extreme cut-away monokinis that leave little to the imagination. Metallic bodysuits and taffeta swim trunks also grace the colorful catalog, but the must-have piece for 2009 is a stylish one-shoulder number from Portland Swimwear (600 SW 4th Ave, 228-7117). Taking the lead from toga-style dresses and asymmetrical necklines, this year’s single-shoulder swimsuits are both subtly sexy and sophisticated. An added bonus: the diagonal line narrows across the upper body to give you an extra shoulder to tan.

Retro is echoing in the men’s market, too. For guys, swim on over to Under U 4 Men (50 SW Broadway, 274-2555, underu4men.com) to peruse an international collection of more than 40 designer men’s underwear and swimwear brands. “We try to have a bit of everything,” says Manager Nicholas Cruz in regards to the stylish board shorts, snug bikinis, form-fitting trunks and square cut models that line the racks. This season, plaid, houndstooth and basket weave prints are popular with top swim brands such as Aussie Bum, Diesel and Andrew Christian. But shorter surf trunks, which hang loose at mid-thigh, are the essential cut and Sauvage’s “’70s” retro suit is the perfect example of elevated design, outstanding materials and attention to detail that offer an unparalleled fit and feel.
Finally, for a no-frills look that gets the job done, dive into JD Pence Aquatic Supply (10234 SW Parkway, 292-2346, jdpence.com), where competitive brands such as TKR, Reebok, Speedo, Finis and Dolfin have outfitted serious swimmers since 1978. Breakthrough technology in material and construction—seen in Speedo’s LZR Racer series of jammers and flyback suits—have propelled athletes to the heights of Olympic stardom.

But you don’t have to be Michael Phelps to enjoy some fun in the sun. All you need is just the right suite that makes you look and feel your best—and a little sunscreen, of course.

BYOB: Where to get your favorite local brews to go!

2009-06-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

By Shanon Emerson

If you’ve ever had a powerful thirst for a cold beer after a long, hard day of, say, browsing the web while pretending to work, then imagine how you’d feel after completing a 2000-mile trek along the Oregon Trail by wagon train only to discover that there’s no beer at the finish line. That's exactly what happened to Henry Saxer in 1852. But Saxer didn’t mope around wondering why life was so unfair. He was a true pioneer, as well as an entrepreneur who could recognize a good thing when he saw it—in this case, prime land and water for brewing. So instead of complaining, he opened Liberty Brewery, Oregon’s first commercial brewery and only the second brewery on the Pacific Coast. Saxer successfully made beer for 10 years before selling Liberty to Oregon's better-known beer-brewing Henry—Henry Weinhard, that is.

In the early 1900s, Oregon wasn't exactly the beer-friendly state that it is today. The (silly, silly) temperance movement had taken root, and in 1914, five years before national prohibition was established, the voters of Oregon approved a state-wide ban on the manufacture, sale or advertisement of intoxicating liquor. Weinhard managed to survive the dry spell of state and national prohibition by serving up sodas and other non-alcoholic drinks at the City Brewery in what is now the Pearl District. In 1933, Oregon and the nation ratified the 21st Amendment and—finally—the beer began to flow again.

Fast forward a few decades to the start of an enlightened age of beer laws. In 1979, Jimmy Carter—older brother of William "Billy Beer" Carter—signed into law the so-called Cranston Bill, which made home brewing legal (up to 100 gallons per person per year). In 1985, the Oregon Legislature legalized brewpubs. This permitted breweries to sell directly to the public, fanning the flames of Oregon’s nascent brew culture. Today the Portland metro area hosts 38 breweries, more than any other metro area in the United States.

These days, many of Portland’s best brewpubs do more than just sell bottles, pints and pitchers to the beer-loving public. A few offer to-go beers in quart jars and 64 oz. growlers. Mason jars make an ideal “single” serving for those nights when you’re enjoying a few beers at the bar but you have to nip out for your late-night Magnum PI fix. (Yes, you should buy pizza rolls on the way home, too.) A growler, on the other hand, is a great way to pull off the hobo-hipster look as you saunter into a party with a jug of your favorite beer dangling from each index finger. Both options offer the ultimate in shopping local and buying bulk, thus reconciling your desire to take home your favorite microbrews with your personal pledge to do your part for the greater good.

Below are a few brewpubs that can set you up with some bulk beer. Each brewery has slightly different rules and prices, but they’re all more than happy to pour that ice-cold beer you’re looking for into a convenient carryout container.

Hopworks Urban Brewery (2944 SE Powell Blvd, 232-4677)
Hopworks, one of Portland’s newest brewpubs, is impressively run on 100 percent renewable energy. The entire operation is the height of sustainability, including a waste recycling program with a goal of zero waste. And, yes, the beer is organic (and award-winning).
Growler Glass: $5
Growler Refill: $10
Quart Jar: Not for sale
Quart Jar Refill: No
BYO Growler: Yes

Laurelwood Public House & Brewery (5115 NE Sandy Blvd, 282-0622)
Laurelwood has also taken on the organic-beer challenge with their aptly named Free Range Red and Tree Hugger Porter. While big on hops, the Free Range Red is said to be “balanced and drinkable.” The Tree Hugger Porter works the chocolaty and malty side of beer like a good porter should.
Growler Glass: $4
Growler Refill: $10
Quart Jar: $2.50
Quart Jar Refill: $5.50
BYO Growler/Quart: Yes

New Old Lompoc (1616 NW 23rd Ave, 225-1855)
If you ever find yourself walking down NW 23rd with an ever-growing desire for something authentic, keep going through the alphabet until you get to the New Old Lompoc Pub just past Raleigh St. If they didn’t have you at New Old, they’ll get you with their Proletariat Red, which, as their website states, “reminds us that work is the curse of the drinking class.” New Old Lompoc brews are available at all four of their pub locations.
Growler Glass: No
Growler Refill: No
Quart Jar: $2.50
Quart Jar Refill: $6
BYO Quart: Yes

Roots Organic Brewing Company (235-7668, 1520 SE 7th Ave)
Roots was the first Oregon brewery to focus solely on organic beer. Five years later, they’re still at it with a handful of regular beers that are always on tap and a few seasonal brews that show up when the time is right. This time of year brings Gruit Kolsch or, as it should rightly be called, summer in a bottle.
Growler Glass: $5
Growler Refill: $10, $12
Quart Jar: Not for sale
Quart Jar Refill: $7
BYO Growler/Quart: Yes

Widmer Brothers Gasthaus Pub (281-2437, 929 N Russell St)
The Widmer brothers—alternately known as Kurt and Rob or Rob and Kurt—started brewing beer as a hobby in the early ’80s. By 1984 they’d turned their hobby into a business, one that would be hugely successful. They first brewed the famous Widmer Hefeweizen, “American’s First Hefeweizen,” in 1986, when the microbrew culture in the Northwest was in its infancy.
Growler Glass: $30 (fancy), $7.50 (regular)
Growler Refill: $8
Quart Jar: Not for sale
Quart Jar Refill: $8 for two quarts (must have two)
BYO Growler/Quart: Yes

Rogue Distillery & Public House (222-5910, 1339 NW Flanders)
If you’re lucky and the rogues at Rogue are feeling generous, they might fill up a BridgePort growler even though BridgePort won’t return the favor. And by might they mean probably won’t. Welcome to Rogue Nation.
Growler Glass: $3
Growler Refill: $15–$19
Quart Jar: Not for sale
Quart Jar Refill: $7.50–$10
BYO Growler/Quart: Yes

Amnesia Brewing (281-7708, 832 N Beech St)
There’s something satisfying about saying the names of the beers at Amnesia: Dusty Trail Pale, Slow Train Porter, Desolation IPA. What’s even more satisfying is the little-bit-country-little-bit-rock-‘n’-roll attitude they have there. Located in an area of town where skinny jeans walk the streets on both women and men, it’s good to have a dash of country thrown in. And while they do fill growlers and quarts, their main requirement for a to-go beer receptacle is that it has a lid. If the law says they can fill it with beer, the folks at Amnesia will do it with a smile.
Growler Glass: Not for sale
Growler Refill: $13
Quart Jar: $1
Quart Jar Refill: $7
BYO Growler/Quart: Yes

Your Month in Beer

2009-06-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

By Shanon Emerson

Oregon Craft Beer month is happening now, and July 4th is the only day this month that there isn’t at least one beer-related event planned. Below are a few highlights that you won’t want to miss. For a full calendar of all the brew-inspired revelry that July has to offer, visit oregonbeer.org/oregon-craft-beer-month-events.

Rogue’s Bloody Mary Pajama Brunch: July 13, 10am
Rogue’s Portland Distillery and Public House (1339 NW Flanders St, 222-5910, rogue.com)
Sleep in until 10am, roll out of bed, leave your pj’s on (or put them on depending on your rogue status) get yourself to Rogue’s Portland distillery. Now officially start your day by building your own Bloody Mary and ordering the Chocolate Stout pancakes.

Portland International Beerfest (PIB): July 17–19
North Park Blocks (NW 8th & NW Davis, portland-beerfest.com)
There’s no better place to taste the world’s beers than at PIB. This three-day festival features
over 150 beers from more than 15 countries. Pay $20 for 10 beer tickets and an official PIB glass. Each additional ticket is $1. Each beer will cost one to four tickets depending on the beer’s “swank factor.”

Hopworks Urban Brewery’s Homebrew Demo: July 20, 2–6pm
Hopworks Urban Brewery (2944 SE Powell Blvd, 232-4677, hopworksbeer.com)
For those of you who want to do more than just drink great beer, Hopworks is offering a homebrew demonstration in their parking lot. Who knows, maybe this will be the beginning of your career as a brewmaster. Or, better yet, it could be the beginning of your career as everyone’s new best friend at your next BBQ.

New Old Lompoc’s Festivus in July: July 22, 5–6pm
New Old Lompoc (1616 NW 23rd Ave, 225-1855, newoldlompoc.com)
This month New Old Lompoc takes the absurdity of Christmas in July to an entirely new level with Festivus in July. Festivus went mainstream when it was written into an episode of “Seinfeld” by a writer whose father had invented the holiday in the ’60s. Now Portlanders can sip traditional Christmas Ales while they experience the “traditional” airing of the grievances and the feats of strength.

Oregon Brewers Guild Brewers Dinner: July 22, 6–8:30
Tom McCall Waterfront Park (288-2739, oregonbeer.org/brewers-dinner)
This informal-style BBQ is held on the eve of the Oregon Brewers Festival as a fund-raiser for the Oregon Brewers Guild. The money they raise will help them continue to spread the word about Oregon’s native beers. It will feature beers that are not available at the festival. For $50 you’ll get dinner, a souvenir pint glass, and your choice of six half-pints of Oregon beer.

Oregon Brewers Festival, July 23–26, oregonbrewfest.com
Tom McCall Waterfront Park, downtown Portland
The Oregon Brewers Festival started in 1988 as a way to support and promote microbrews. Twenty-one years later the festival will feature craft beers from 80 different breweries from across the country. Packages range from $10–$50 and include a 2009 souvenir mug, which is required hardware for your beer-drinking pleasure. Admission is free if you’re more interested in the food and live music than the beer.

On Display: What's happening this month in Portland's galleries

2009-06-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

By M. Clarissa Fong

Paul Solevad – Universes Big and Small
Onda Gallery

The floating fractal symbols and shapes in Paul Solevad’s paintings offer small windows into our expansive reality this month at Onda Gallery. Through July 29, Solevad’s work explores the idea of universality and connection as it relates to the greater continuum.
The ongoing permanence of nature, humans and the universe is melded into surrealistic expressionism with Solevad’s most recent work delving into the exploration of nature and form. Series of “Radiolaria,” (single-celled organisms that express the fractal patterns seen on every level of our organic reality) are shaped into meditative mandalas, allowing for contemplation and reflection.
Solevad grew up in Northern California and obtained a BFA in painting from the California Lutheran University in 1992. Since moving to Portland, he has developed his fine art career by displaying and selling his paintings at First and Last Thursday art walk events. Solevad has also provided editorial illustrations for the Willamette Week, The Progressive and other publications.
Onda Gallery is located at 2215 NE Alberta St and is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 11am to 6pm and Sunday from noon to 4pm. For more information, visit ondagallery.com or call 493-1909.

Charmaine Shively – Sun Kissed
B. Rogers Gallery

Charmaine Shively continues to explore the sun kissed calm that resonates from within in hopes that viewers will also feel the same saturated warmth with her second exhibit at B. Rogers Gallery from July 2 to August 2.
Known for her luminous encaustic paintings, Shively brings the audience to a visual nirvana with her densely tinted new work. Colors are fused to the surface by the application of heat—much in the style of medieval earthenware tile—with thickly applied wax, heavy pigmentation and deep rich hues that suggest atmospheres on some distant planet. With aggressive gouges and jabs, Shively evokes emerging horizons to create surreal landscapes.
The artist approaches the canvas without a plan in order to achieve a meditative state of subconscious that expresses itself in paint. Shively’s uncommon approach to encaustic painting helps expose surprise elements that provide beautiful nuances that one might find in nature. Fusing the influences of Georgia O’Keeffe and Mark Rothko, the artist has developed her own unique style with iridescent pigments that have added a new dimension to the work, emitting a subtle glow.
B. Rogers Gallery, located at 734 NE 19th Ave, is open Thursday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm and Sundays from 11am to 5pm. For more information, visit brogersgallery.com or call 225-0210.

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July Gallery Calendar

Feldman Gallery+Project Space (PNCA): Marina Zurkow – Elixir. I & IV (layered video treatments) and Jessica Mein – Cegueira/Deleveled (animated works). July 2–31. 1241 NW Johnson St, 226-4391, pnca.edu/exposure/feldman.

PDX Contemporary Art: Wes Mills – Mondrian’s Forest (new drawings). June 30–August 1. 925 NW Flanders St, 222-0063, pdxcontemporaryart.com.

Beppu-Wiarda Gallery: Lorna Nakell – Flying at Night (multi-media paintings). July 1–31. 319 NW 9th Ave, 241-6460, beppugallery.com.

Gallerie Rene: On The Scene (group show). July 2–31. 207 SW Pine St, 223-1022, gallerierene.com.

Butters Gallery: Jiro Yonezawa (Japanese basket weaving). July 2–August 1. 520 NW Davis St, 544-9171, buttersgallery.org.

Guardino Gallery: Kelly Neidig (paintings) and Shalene Valenzuela (ceramic). May 28–June 23. 2939 NE Alberta St, 281-9048, guardinogallery.com.

23 Sandy Gallery: Chris Haberman – Wonderland. July 3–August 1. 623 NE 23rd Ave, 927-4409, 23sandy.com.

Laura Russo Gallery: Michael Brophy (recent paintings). June 4–27. 805 NW 21st Ave, 226-2754, laurarusso.com.

Museum of Contemporary Craft: Call+Response (group show). Thru October 31. 724 NW Davis St, 223-2654, museumofcontemporarycraft.org.

Bullseye Gallery: Klaus Moje (kiln glass). Thru August 22. 300 NW 13th Ave, 227-0222, bullseyegallery.com.

Studio 2507: Brin Levinson (new paintings). July 3–31. 2507 SE Clinton St, 957-6800, studio2507.com.

Newspace Center for Photography: Dawn Roe and Catharine Stebbins. July 3–August 2. 1632 SE 10th Ave, 963-1935, newspacephoto.org.

Froelick Gallery: Lli Wilburn, Kelly Kievit and Gabriel Manca. July 13–August 29. 714 NW Davis St, 222-1142, froelickgallery.com.

Elizabeth Leach Gallery: Quilts from Gee’s Bend. July 2–August 1. 417 NW 9th Ave, 224-0521, elizabethleach.com.

Talisman Gallery: Noel Barnett and Mary Volm. July 1–30. 1476 NE Alberta St, 284-8800, talismangallery.com.

Augen Gallery: Allen Cox – Small Spaces. July 1–August 1. 716 NW Davis St, 546-5056, augengallery.com.

Sweet Emotion

2009-06-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

Like a bell causes a Pavlovian dog to drool, the tinkling sound of a truck playing “The Entertainer” makes me want a Rocket Pop. The smell of waffles makes me want a big, drippy cone full of chocolate ice cream. The sound of a blender makes me long for a frosty espresso milkshake. I blame the sun. Well, that and my voracious sweet tooth. Can you blame me? Be it a milkshake, sundae or ice-cold snack, there is no better way to beat the summertime heat than an oh-so-sweet, cool concoction.

High on the tasty treats list is Pix Patisserie (multiple locations, pixpatisserie.com) for their delicious floats. Belly up to the Rogue Chocolate Stout topped with mocha ice cream and you’ll wonder why you ever liked plain old root beer floats. Or, try the rosy-hued Lindeman’s Framboise (raspberry beer) with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Très magnifique!

The good old days of the made-to-order indulgence at the soda fountain are not forgotten at BluePlate Lunch Counter (308 SW Washington Street, 295-2583, eatatblueplate.com). Sodas (like the surprisingly complex Purple Haze, with hibiscus, allspice and star anise) are made from scratch with pure cane sugar and natural ingredients and can be topped with Cascade Glacier ice cream for only $1.50 more. Personally, I love their ginormous milkshakes. A blenderful of the aforementioned Purple Haze with huckleberry ice cream tastes like a summer picnic. Of course, while house blends like chocolate and filbert butter or the Cowboy Coffee shake (made with Stumptown beans) are fun, you can always gauge a good joint by their presentation of the basic vanilla shake and BluePlate’s is creamy, rich and darn near perfect.

Another throwback to the days of old is Sellwood’s Mike’s Drive-in (1707 SE Tenino St, 236-4537) where the shakes are often made with fresh, local ingredients like strawberries and marionberries. But the list of options at Mike’s does not end there. Besides offering seasonal favorites, they have a bevy of choices like marshmallow, orange creamsicle, peanut butter and—what I like to call the Funky Monkey—chocolate and banana.

Portland’s newest gastronomic darling, The Original, opened in May and immediately brought a flush of melancholy to PDX foodies everywhere over the guilty pleasures that were Quality Pie (a 24/7 diner that closed in 1992) and Farrell’s ice cream parlor (which closed in 2001). Fortunately, much like the sorely missed QP and Farrell’s, The Original taps into that 1950s charm that makes me nostalgic for the days when it was sexy to hold hands while you sipped a malted with your sweetheart. Build your own sundae with their house-made ice cream or sorbet and a plethora of toppings and sauces. If you are really feeling like a tart (the trollop, not the treat) order your sundae with sour cherry sauce and pop rocks. Dirty and delicious!

If you are feeling adventurous (or are tired of the old chocolate-vanilla-strawberry trifecta) head over to Cool Moon Ice Cream (1105 NW Johnson, 224-2021, coolmoonicecream.com) near The Pearl District's Jameson Park. The locally-owned shop concocts their own flavors and the list goes all the way from traditional to downright crazy. I am absolutely in love with their Cardinal Zin, a mix of bittersweet chocolate, Zinfandel wine, dark sweet cherries and Balsamic vinegar, but on my last visit I sampled Kulfi (pistachio and cardamom with a touch of rosewater) and found myself torn between two lovers. Cool Moon offers happy hour pints every day from 4pm to 6pm, when you can get pre-packed pints for just $4 each (perfect for an impromptu bench picnic in the neighboring park).

Portland may not have a lot of local ice cream parlors like Cool Moon left, but if there’s one thing we’ve got in spades, it’s gelato joints. If you’ve never had it (where have you been?) you’re missing out. Slightly less fattening than ice cream and blended with less air, this Italian original is smoother and more full-flavored than its American counterpart. There are many hot spots in P-Town to catch on to the gelato craze, but one of my go-to spots is Staccato Gelato (2 locations, including 232 NE 28th, staccatogelato.com) which carries 18 different flavors a day including PDX uber-faves, Honey Lavender and Rose Petal. Another Portland gelato giant is Mio Gelato, which boasts three locations including one in the Pearl (25 NW 11th Ave, 226-8002). Mio serves an array of flavors, but they excel at the Italian classics like pistachio, amaretto and chocolate. They also serve Illy espresso, so stop by and ask them to make you an affogato di gelato (drowned gelato) with fresh-brewed espresso and a rich chocolate scoop.

Up on Trendy-third, Alotto Gelato (931 NW 23rd Ave, 228-1709, alottogelato.biz) is a favorite neighborhood stop. It’s no wonder when they stock fresh-daily flavors like hazelnut, mint chocolate chip, limoncello and papaya, as well as some crazy (but good) concoctions like strawberry black pepper, yellow cake with chocolate frosting and chocolate chipotle.

Remember those squishy ice cream sandwiches you used to love? Well, they’re all grown up at Ruby Jewel (rubyjewel.net). Creator and former chef Lisa Herlinger is a food connoisseur and her handmade ice cream sandwiches are a perfect testament to her expertise. When they debuted at a local farmers market a few years back, they were a runaway hit. Soon the demand for her fresh-made portable treats began to outweigh the supply. These days, Ruby Jewel produces tens of thousands of the tasty treats, but they are still committed to using locally grown ingredients such as mint and lavender as well as fresh, locally roasted coffee (for the oh-so-delectable cinnamon chocolate cookie and espresso ice cream sandwich). Plus, they manage to do this all while maintaining a highly sustainable and eco-friendly "nearly 100% waste-free" business. So, I'm not afraid to admit that I love the refreshing and summery honey lavender ice cream and lemon cookie concoction and often find myself gravitating towards the freezer section at Zupans when I should be buying lunch. You can purchase Ruby Jewel sandwiches online by the case or find them in a number of local stores and restaurants like Fred Meyer, Whole Foods, Elephant's Deli and Pastaworks.

If you are old enough to remember the frozen yogurt craze of the late 1980s, the idea of grabbing a “fro-yo” may not appeal to you. Sure, it was cold and if you topped it with enough bits of crumbled candy bars and chocolate sauce, it kind of resembled ice cream. Well, set aside all your preconceived notions about yogurt because today’s version is tangier, smoother and considerably more healthy thanks to the millions of live active cultures swimming around in the creamy swirls. Each serving is about 110 calories (compared to about 200 for regular ice cream) and is completely fat free. One of my favorite haunts is Active Culture (820 SE 8th Ave, 608-7742, activeculturepdx.com), where they have 10 flavors that rotate daily, some tart and some that edge on the creamier side. Try the key lime flavor with fresh berries, or the original tart flavor swirled with raspberry. It’s a cool treat that you can actually chalk up to a good deed because the cultures aid with digestion and boost the body's immune system.

With the economy in a downward spiral, I'm all about small indulgences. Last year, we were all concerned about our waistlines; this year we're a bit more concerned about our wallets and while we can't afford that gym membership or that cruise to Hawaii, we can afford a cool and tasty gastronomic getaway. So, bring on the stretchy pants, we're having ice cream!

July Set List

2009-06-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

By Jenny Rapf

RZA
Hawthorne Theater
July 9th

As one of the founding members of one of the most highly coveted rap groups in rap and hip hop history, RZA left Wu-Tang Clan to focus on his solo career. But not much has happened with the Wu since we lost our beloved crack-smoking Big Baby Jesus (aka Ol' Dirty Bastard). Interestingly enough, few people know that RZA produced nearly all of the Wu's albums including many of the members' solo work. Heralded as one of the greatest producers of all time, he has also released solo albums under the alter-ego Bobby Digital. In addition to the Wu-Tang Clan and his solo releases, RZA was also a founding member of the rap group Gravediggaz where he used the name "The Rzarector." You may have also seen him in 2007's film Derailed as a corporate mailroom clerk/gun slinger on the sly (classic Hollywood cliché if I’ve ever seen one). Any way you slice it, RZA's appearance in Portland will be a good show.

Azure Ray
Mississippi Studios
July 10th

Maria Taylor and Orenda Fink (who met at the Alabama School of Fine Arts at the age of 15) have been busy putting out their own version of underrated and intimate pop music with dashes of alt country and folk Americana. As much as I enjoy putting labels on things, I can't help it here because they sound like less melodramatic versions of Tegan and Sara. Don't get me wrong I love me some angst ridden Lesbian twins singing about their most recent journal entry and what BITCH just broke their heart, but Azure Ray infuses a little less self-deprecation into their love-loss lyrical prowess. They have worked with the likes of Moby (yikes) and Bright Eyes (just to redeem themselves). Since 2004 the two ladies have been focusing on their own solo work, but more recently have started touring as Azure Ray once again. This will be a very mellow show and it's in the newly remodeled and re-vamped Mississippi Studios, and for those of you who haven't checked out the new digs, this show will be the perfect opportunity.

Death Cab For Cutie
Edgefield
July 17th

This show is quite the ideal li'l outdoor package (any show at Edgefield is, really). Spend the day golfing Edgefield's pitch-n-putt chipper course then have a basket of tots and go enjoy a fabulous outdoor show with Seattle's own indie rock darlings, Death Cab For Cutie. Personally I am not a huge fan, but I have learned over the years that just because I don't have a fondness for something doesn't mean that it doesn't appeal to the masses. When it comes to Death Cab...well let's just say the masses have latched on like white on rice. Their latest release The Open Door EP (April 2009) has received the usual Death Cab buzz, however, I think their rise to fame can only be properly attributed to the fact that Seth Cohen from the infamous and short lived high school “mellow” drama The O.C. was OBSESSED with them, thus launching them into indie rock stardom. Oh Seth...how I miss you with your tussled hair and wildly sarcastic sense of humor. TV just hasn't been the same without you.

Too $hort
Roseland
July 24th

Too $hort is one of those artists who transcends the test of time...some might even say the boundaries of rap and hip-hop. Hailing from Oakland, Too $hort started his career at the age of 15, distributing custom made mix-tapes. By "custom" I mean he was creating his own raps personalized for whomever was requesting a tape. So, it's not like you could hand him a list of The Cure, Bob Marley, early Madonna (a'la True Blue) and maybe a little Ice Cube and ask him to throw something together for a Friday night living room dance party. It was more like you would tell him what’s on your mind and in a week's time you'd have a tape full of rhymes all about you and your current “situation”. It was unheard of at the time and still is to this day, especially with the content and rhyming ability that Too $hort was capable of at such a young age. Since then, he has released 17 LPs and sold over 11 million albums making him one of the most commercially successful rappers of all time. Though he is considered in many circles to be a Gangsta Rapper, the vast majority of his lyrical content is about sex (though his gangsta cred most likely was spawned from his huge influence on such “gangsta” rappers as Ice Cube and the whole of N.W.A). This show will be raucous...raunchy and AWESOME. Don't miss it.

Nas and Damian Marley
Roseland
July 31

I was a little shocked to see this duo on tour, so in shock that I had to check the appropriate websites to make sure that the REAL DEAL Nas was actually going to attend. Because, let's be honest kids, you've seen one Marley, you've seen them all. Excuse me, Damian, I'll take that back. It's just that I would rather see your father, Bob.
At the same time, the tour does sound intriguing (if only for the fact that it’s an opportunity to see Nas live). Perhaps you know of him from his widely-publicized feud with other hip-hop heavy weight Jay-Z from 2001 to 2005 which was later “squashed” in a 2006? No? Perhaps you know him from his many collaborations with emcees from Eminem to Lupe Fiasco to KRS-One? You must know him from the phenomenal work he did in bringing to life 1996’s It Was Written, a masterpiece in its entirety. Nas has been a front runner in the support of intelligent and progressive music, pushing and fighting for his career and a voice that can cross racial boundaries…it is rare and magnificently unique.

Exploring Alberta Street

2009-06-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

(Photo by Hilary Pfeifer)

Alberta Street—A World Away from Downtown
By Brooke Preston

In a city’s arts district, places like galleries, performance spaces, artesian bistros and independent boutiques abound. By this definition, most of Portland should be considered the arts district. Thus, calling the revitalized, gentrified cluster of businesses along Northeast Alberta Street the “Alberta Arts District” can initially be a bit of a head scratcher. After all, there are noticeably less of what might be called traditional galleries than in other local neighborhoods. However, by actually roaming this street of eclectic shops, one yields a bit of insight: nearly every restaurant and establishment is a gallery of sorts, showcasing a rotating collection on their walls and hosting openings. Most stay open late once a month to host events for the Last Thursday art walk, which provides a smaller but spirited counterpoint to the Pearl District’s First Thursdays.

Alberta is a fine place to bring visitors, but many Portlanders have yet to explore this somewhat out-of-the-way corner of their own community. It’s easy to fill an entire day ambling and noshing among the tattooed and shabby chic masses, but first, you’ll need a game plan. The district rambles all the way from NE MLK Jr. Blvd to NE Killingsworth, but most of the neighborhood’s highlights are conveniently located on NE Alberta Street between 11th and 31st Avenues. Ample street parking means you can get right down to enjoying the neighborhood on foot or bike without circling endlessly to jockey for a space.

You’ll need plenty of energy for a full day of intrepid exploring, so start with a hearty breakfast. No problem there—several of Portland’s most beloved breakfast and brunch havens are located in the heart of the district. I started my day at Helser’s, or more specifically, outside the classic café/diner at one of several (dog-friendly!) sidewalk tables. There, the hubby, the lab and I enjoyed a veritable feast of well-made a.m. comfort food served by friendly and efficient servers, including scrumptious potato pancakes. Just down the street, the Tin Shed and Garden Café is a local staple, serving up fresh local ingredients, and a large, covered outdoor seating area, which means less wait time during these summer months. Vegetarians and omnivores alike flock to the Vita Café, now settled in its new home directly across Alberta from its previous location. Its menu heavily leans on veggie and vegan offerings, but offers some responsibly raised meat options, meaning we can finally all eat at the same table without warily perusing the menu for something tasty. The Fuel Café is rich in both ‘nutritious’ and ‘delicious’, with an entirely organic coffee selection, cozy atmosphere and WiFi to boot.

Once you’ve fueled up, enjoy a peaceful morning filled with culture and creation. The Guardino Gallery offers appealing and ever-changing selections from contemporary Northwest artists. Fellow gallery Ampersand offers a fascinating, offbeat collection of new and vintage paper ephemera (and beyond) as well as a bookstore and gift shop largely specializing in photography and design offerings. Feeling inspired after taking it all in? Children of all ages can paint a variety of pottery items to call their very own at Mimosa Studios.

All that creating can work up an appetite, and lunch options are plentiful. Stop by Francis for a rare and perfect blend of high-brow luxuries (oh, those famously comfy chairs!) at surprisingly affordable prices. Stylish décor, unique and scrumptious food and drink and an accomplished, unpretentious staff make this a perfect place to languish and make lunch an event. If you’re in a hurry, or want to continue exploring while you eat, consider the Grilled Cheese Grill, a food cart that serves the childhood favorite in surprisingly interesting and gratifying ways.

After eating your greens, it’s time to drop some green on the street’s many locally-owned boutiques and shops. No need to feel guilty about your retail therapy—chains are all but nonexistent on Alberta and its surrounding streets, so the money you spend goes straight back into the neighborhood economy, helping small business owners thrive. Plus, we’re not talking mass-produced mall trinkets. Ella’s saves 30 to 50-somethings from choosing between the junior’s section and Chico’s, providing a stylish array of fitness, casual and even formal pieces. Donna and Toots and Garnish are two Alberta boutiques that offer only handmade clothes, sewn by their owners. Local fashionistas also rave about Garnish’s willingness to change or embellish a style or custom tailor any piece to look great on the buyer’s body. If that’s not enough to perk up your day, include a visit Mabel and Zora, a store inspired by the sunny spirit of Doris Day. If you’re shopping for smaller fry, don’t miss Grasshopper. The brightly colored store is packed with finds—but is refreshingly free of the over-marketed brands and toys of other stores.

However, there’s much more to browse than dresses and scarves. For example, one must-stop Alberta attraction is Office PDX, one of the most talked-about stores in Portland. Even if you’re not in the market for their collection of vintage office furniture, retro whatnots and design-centric modern notions (including a killer selection of laptop bags), you’ll be glad you stopped in—after all, what better place to re-enact scenes from Mad Men?

Don’t leave out Fido and Fluffy—Healthy Pets Northwest’s largest location (they have three) is located in Alberta. Bring in your pet, and the welcoming staff will probably offer your pet a treat or two from the massive additive-free treat bar. (My pooch literally leapt for the chicken variety).

Nearby, one of five area women-owned Real Deals on Home Decor location keeps prices ridiculously low for their large selection of home décor by staying open only a couple days a week (currently Thursday and Saturday). In fact, gifts and goods for just about everyone are all within a stone’s throw, from home and garden goods at Digs, new and used musical instruments and more at Trade Up Music, or gently used cycles for a good cause at the Community Cycling Center.

Celebrate your newfound bargains at Every Day Wine, where the laid-back atmosphere allows for sampling of any of the 400 options, most of which are under $15 dollars. Follow this with dinner at swanky (but not too swanky) Ciao Vito, serving Italian influenced dishes under glittering chandeliers.

After dinner, (or for another great happy hour/dinner option) keep the party going by visiting Zaytoon, a neighborhood bar with a decidedly big city feel. The spacious bi-level lounge is a must-stop, offering sophistication sans snobbery. This is fantastic news for those that want to class up their night without fighting the weekend Pearl throngs. In fact, once you spend some time in Alberta, this neighborhood is virtually destined to quickly become a regular part of the social repertoire.

Thanks for the memories, PDX!

2009-06-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the end of PDX Magazine. Since October of 2005, we've had the pleasure of writing about one of the greatest cities in the world; and we consider it a privilege to have shared some of our favorite elements of it with you.

Our operation has always been quite small (usually a core group of 4-5 people assembling content/writing/editing/designing), and of late that has been to our benefit. When things got tough, we got creative. We buckled down. We worked harder and longer and we made sacrifices wherever we could. Sadly, the challenges of creating a high-quality print publication every month outweigh the practicalities of sustaining it any longer.

Thank you for your readership and support throughout these past years. It has been a rough-and-tumble, but glorious ride.

-Hollyanna McCollom
Editor-in-Chief

Penny-wise in PDX: A Short (But Sweet) Note

2009-06-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

By Brooke Preston

Attention carb-lovers: Today (Friday) is National Doughnut Day! Yes, there
is actually a National Doughnut Day. You have the Salvation Army to thank:
they came up with the holiday as a way to boost morale for WW1 soldiers.

These days, we all need a little boost from the recessionary gloom, so
Krispy Kreme is celebrating by offering each customer a FREE donut--no
purchase required--at all its stores.

(Dunkin Donuts is also offering a 'free' donut with a beverage purchase, but
there are no local locations).

Portland Area Krispy Kreme locations:

*Clackamas*
9950 S.E. 82nd Avenue
Portland, OR 97266
Phone: 503-774-3300

*Vancouver*
8517 N.E. Andresen Road
Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360-260-0066

*Beaverton*
16415 NW Cornell Road
Beaverton, OR 97006
Phone: 503-645-2228

PS: When reached for comment, Voodoo Doughnut employees delightedly
exclaimed that "Every day is doughnut day!" at their two locations (which
are not offering free doughnuts, but will, as always, offer devilishly fun
treats). The Old Town location's line is already stretching out the door
this morning, which is a good reminder that dougnuts are something worth
celebrating, even when you have to pay.

Voodoo Doughnut locations:

*Voodoo Doughnut-Old Town*
22 S.W. Third Ave
Portland Oregon 97204
503.241.4704

*Voodoo Doughnut too-Northeast*
1501 N.E. Davis
Portland Oregon 97232
503.235.2666

Bouquet of Hope: Saturday, May 9th

2009-05-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

Recently we received a heads up about an event coming up this Saturday where you can spend some quality time with Mom while simultaneously helping out a good cause. Here's the press release with all the details:

Bouquet of Hope Benefit Comes Into Full Bloom May 9th

The Bouquet of Hope benefit for the Rose Haven Women’s Center is blooming with opportunities to celebrate women on Mother’s Day Weekend. In addition to performances by Internationally-acclaimed violinist Aaron Meyer and the exceptional School of Oregon Ballet Theater, the May 9th event will also
feature the dazzling talents of Portland’s finest floral designers in the Fête De La Fleur Competition.

Decadent centerpieces from Swanky Tables, Anna Mara, Quince Flowers and Starflower will fill the room with visual delights and simultaneously compete for the Fête De La Fleur crown. Guests will have the chance to vote on their favorite arrangement to determine the winner. Some pieces will be up for bid in the Red Rose Silent Auction, which will feature items donated by local businesses in support of Rose Haven.

Rose Haven is a beacon of hope for women and children in Portland who have experienced the trauma of abuse or homelessness. They serve over 100 women and children every week, and offer a large spectrum of aid, including on-site medical treatment, domestic violence and chemical dependence assistance and legal counseling through partnership with local community agencies and universities. Rose Haven opened in 1998 after women in the Old Town community in Portland were surveyed regarding their outstanding needs.

The resounding consensus was that Portland lacked a save haven for women in abusive or severely impoverished life situations. The need for a safe and healing environment motivated the Good Sheperd Sisters to open the center. 11 years later, Rose Haven provides unparalleled and exceedingly relevant services to the women of Portland.

We invite you to join us at this unique event and pay tribute to the mothers of Portland and the women of Rose Haven. Bouquet of Hope offers an ideal Mother-Daughter or Mother-Son date, where the celebration of Motherhood is perfectly paired with charitable giving. Tickets are $65 each or $600 for a table of ten. Bouquet of Hope will be held Saturday, May 9th at LUXE Autohaus at NE 17th & Glisan. Festivities begin at 5:00pm with the Red Rose Silent Auction, followed by an organic seated dinner catered by Artemis Catering, performances by the School of Oregon Ballet Theater and violinist Aaron Meyer, and capped off by the crowning of the Fête De La Fleur winner. Register online at www.bouquetofhope.com or call 503.226.2377 for more information.

Penny-Wise in PDX:Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happy Hour

2009-05-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

By Brooke Preston

With the Oregon unemployment rate rising over 12 percent, it's not exactly high time for extravagant meals out on the town. But in a town as tasty as Portland, it would be a crime to miss out on all the fun just because Uncle Sam cut our allowance.

Luckily, the Pacific Northwest, and particularly Portland, offers a diverse and delectable collection of happy hours. The saving grace of the young, broke and fabulous, happy hours allow us all to indulge our champagne taste on a PBR budget.

50 Plates (333 NW 13th Ave, 50plates.com) is no exception. It should come as no surprise that the powers that be at this Pearl District favorite decided to re-vamp the laid-back sophistication of its newest happy hour menu—which debuted last week—by tripling its number of dishes, featuring local ingredients, seasonal treats and even an array of wallet-friendly cocktails.

All-American diners and picnics meet casual elegance at 50 Plates, producing thoughtful, flavorful dishes that reflect our nation's surprisingly substantive and unique culinary traditions. Take for instance the Castroville Artichoke Rolls, an appetizing tribute to the California veggie that marries an artichoke and garlic filling with a bit of goat cheese, crisp fried in rice oil with a summery avocado ranch dip made fresh in-house.

For 9.50, the "Happy Hour Meal" provides a (semi) grown-up version of the childhood classic, featuring chicken nuggets with their choice of house sauces, a cocktail, a cookie and what the menu refers to as "a crappy toy."

Short ribs, Kobe beef sammies, fried green tomato sliders called "The Lousy Hunter" and a long list of filling goodies provide sustenance. A full page of $5 classic cocktails put the happy in happy hour. An additional new collection of mixed drinks and floats usher in spring with color and bright flavors, including a new concoction (yet to be named—put on those thinking caps!) featuring Jim Beam (an American staple that fits the restaurant's theme perfectly), blueberry puree and Navan, a vanilla cognac which serves as a surprisingly apt liaison between such otherwise incongruent flavors. Those with a sweet tooth should instead stick to the grapefruit and vodka fronted 50 Plates punch, or a refreshing float with Kahlua, espresso and homemade (!!!) chocolate ice cream.

50 Plates offers happy hour from 3-6 daily (but is closed on Sundays) as well as 9pm-close Monday-Thursday, and 10pm-close Fridays and Saturdays. Note: The late night happy hours are not posted yet on their website, but staff members confirmed they have commenced! You can view menus, location and the stories behind many of the dishes at 50plates.com.

Check back here for more tips on how to experience Portland on the cheap!

Jax Gear Up for Playoffs

2009-05-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

By Jeremy Lloyd

Sadly, the playoffs ended for the Trail Blazers last night with a disappointing loss to the Houston Rockets. But for another Portland sports team, the postseason is just getting started. Tonight at 7:30pm at the Rose Garden, the LumberJax will host the San Jose Stealth in the first round of the National Lacrosse League playoffs.

If you haven't yet experienced professional indoor lacrosse, it combines the brutal hits and ferocity of a hockey game with the up-and-down and fast-moving excitement of a basketball game. And with tickets starting at just $10, the price is right.

A LumberJax game is a lot of fun, from the vicious hits on the field to the upbeat atmosphere in the arena, and, of course, the ultra-hot Jax dancers. I'll see you there. Until then, here's a quickie game preview from Jax Media Relations Manager and all around good guy Steven Masters:

The Jax (9-7) finished second in the West after winning three of their final four games. Portland relied heavily on a balanced scoring attack and a physical defense all season.

The team was 5-1 this season when seven or more players scored goals. Portland also saw four different players score 50+ points, which was a franchise best. The team even dished out a franchise-high 280 assists.

Forward Ryan Powell (18 goals, 44 assists) led the team with 62 points. His assist total was a career-high and epitomized the unselfish nature on the offensive end that Head Coach/General Manager Derek Keenan has preached since training camp in November.

On the defensive end, goalie Matt Disher set the tone early on. The cagey veteran finished with 502 saves and only allowed 10.80 goals-per-game. In fact, Disher was at his best when facing a deluge of shots. Portland went 7-2 in games that Disher faced 45 shots on goal or more.

San Jose (7-9) is no stranger to this Portland squad. This will be the fourth time the two rivals have met this season. The Jax won two of the three matchups and split the season series in Portland. Overall, Portland leads the series history, 8-5.

Like Portland, San Jose had a very historic season. The Stealth becamethe fifth team in National Lacrosse League history to outscore their opponents, yet finish with a losing record.

This will be the second consecutive year that the two clubs have met in the postseason. Last year in the West Division Semifinals, Portland traveled to San Jose and dropped a then franchise-high 18 goals on the
Stealth in an 18-16 win.

Portland’s goal early in the season was to first earn a playoff berth, then clinch a home playoff game. The Jax have done both. Now, the focus shifts to advancing to the West Division Championship.

Rip City Report: It's Playoff Time!

2009-04-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

By Jeremy Lloyd

After a loooooong 6 year wait, the Blazers are finally back in the playoffs. Game 1 of Portland's 7-game series vs. the Houston Rockets is set for this Saturday at 7:30pm at the Rose Garden. The game can be seen on ESPN and KGW. Want tickets? Good luck, they're sold out. If you absolutely must be in the building no matter what the cost, check with craigslist.com, stubhub.com or your friendly neighborhood scalper--but be prepared to open that wallet wide.

Red Hot and Rolling
The Blazers enter the playoffs winners of 10 of their last 11 games, and just about every player on the roster is playing their best ball of the season right now. LaMarcus Aldridge has been an absolute beast in the paint the past three months, Rudy Fernandez has regained his stroke from three-point territory, Travis Outlaw closed out the season with back-to-back 21-point games, vets Joel Przybilla and Steve Blake have been as solid as ever, and Brandon Roy has solidified his status as nothing less than a superstar. Even the much maligned Greg Oden has been finding his rhythm off the bench of late; and against a big and strong Rockets team, he'll be needed in the playoffs more than ever.

The Matchup
The #4 seed Blazers (54-28) were hoping to avoid a first round meeting with the #5 seed Rockets (53-29) for obvious reasons. Portland went 1-2 against Houston during the regular season, their only victory coming on a buzzer beating three-point prayer by Brandon Roy early in the season at the Rose Garden.

What scares the Blazers about the Rockets? Three things. First, 7-foot-6 center Yao Ming is a tough cover for any NBA defender, and if he can get Przybilla and Oden in early foul trouble (which Oden especially is prone to), it'll force Portland to go to a smaller lineup which Houston will most certainly take advantage of with their big men up front. Second, Ron Artest and Shane Battier are exceptional wing defenders, and their combination of size, athleticism and defensive know-how have given Roy fits this season. And as anybody knows, as Roy goes, so go the Blazers. Finally, Houston is a grind-it-out, elbow you in the face, tough team. The Blazers identity of late has been as a controlled running team that plays best when it's getting easy baskets in the open court or secondary fast break. If the Rockets can slow Portland down and make it an ugly game, it won't be to the Blazers' advantage.

Fortunately for the Blazers, the first two of those three points have significant counter arguments. For those worried that Yao will get Oden and Przybilla in foul trouble, consider that generally referees pocket their whistles in the playoffs and let a lot more physical play go, so fouls shouldn't be as much of an issue. And while the Rockets may have found a way to bottle up Roy with Artest and Battier in the regular season, in the postseason teams have much more time to plan for their opponents. Rest assured that coach Nate McMillan and staff have been putting in long hours looking at game film, and already have a plan for how to free up Roy from Houston's smothering defense. The playoffs are all about making adjustments, and the Blazers are sure to come out with a completely different game plan than the regular season. As for the final question--whether the Blazers can play at Houston's sluggish pace--that remains to be seen. The pace of the game always slow down during the postseason, and this series will be no different. It's up to the Blazers to push the tempo whenever they can, but when it's time to grind it out, they'll have to prove they're tough enough--both mentally and physically--to hang with the Rockets if they plan to win this series.

Prediction
Thanks to a great home court advantage at the Rose Garden (where Portland is a stellar 34-7), the Blazers will likely win all 4 home games and lose all 3 road games. Blazers win it in 7. Next up: Bring on the Lakers!

Crazy Enough: Storm Large takes PCS by...well...storm

2009-04-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

Last week at Portland Center Stage, things were a bit bittersweet. Just as news leaked out that they had “let go” their entire literary department (including Literary Manager Mead Hunter), Storm Large’s one-woman autobiographical show Crazy Enough was finally premiering in the Ellen Bye Studio. And while many within the Portland theatre scene were worried, angry or frustrated about the former, the latter was an occasion that left many of us feeling like Christmas had come early.
After months of workshops, re-writes and rehearsals, Large took the stage Friday night in a surprisingly stripped-down fashion. No booming announcement, no dress-cut-down-to-there, no drum roll. Just Storm.
Those of us who have watched Large rise from a cult star in the Portland clubs to a household name on reality TV’s Rockstar: Supernova know that she is a consummate entertainer. She’s brassy, sexy, and funny and oh yeah, the girl’s got pipes. The funny thing is, whether she’s playing to a packed house at Dante’s or to a sea of fans standing shoulder to shoulder in a warehouse, she somehow makes you feel as if she is sitting in your lap, tickling your ear with her breath. She’s engaging, yes, but it’s more than just that. Storm is like the opening riff of “Foxy Lady.” She’s the burlesque piano line in David Bowie’s “Time.” She is the bassline in “Come As You Are.” When she’s on the mic, she is everything you want her to be: Vulnerable, flirtatious and unabashed. It’s just that most of us never questioned why.
Crazy Enough is an impressive, funny and sad glimpse into the life that made Large so much larger than life. The songs that are sprinkled throughout the two-act show (co-written by Large and The Balls band member James Beaton) are delivered with the chanteuse’s signature panache. Some of them are bawdy, rock-heavy nods to her career of late; some of them are so heartbreakingly tender, you forget that she’s known for the hits “What The F*ck is Ladylike?” and “Where is My Mind?”.
Much of the show focuses on Large’s troubled relationship with her mentally ill mother, like the moment when she recalls her five-year-old fear of having a caused a relapse in her mother’s psychiatric health by being “too loud,” and makes a pact to be as silent as possible. Always more of a shrieking violet than a shrinking one, Large was a kid who probably thrived on noise and kinetic energy. So, your heart breaks when she then recalls driving her mother to tears and sobs of, “Stormy hates me!” because instead of greeting her with the usual flurry of screams and excitement, she twitches quietly in the corner, wanting to cry out, but terrified of crashing through her mother’s tenuous moments of sanity.

Little by little, you begin to understand how little Stormy grew into what she is today. She is never maudlin as she explains how pain, heartache and fear were pushed aside for sex, drugs, gallows humor and (eventually) rock and roll. The show never feels heavy handed or preachy, despite the fact that the message of survival is clear.
In one of the songs most popular (and infectious) songs, “8 Miles Wide,” she sings, “I am enormous. Get used to it. Everyone tells me I’m too much. Maybe its just you’re not enough.”
Large has knocked it out of the park here, finally crushing any post-TV whispers of her being just a flash-in-the-pan. With all the bawdiness, talent and charisma of a young Bette Midler and a personality that is both unapologetic and endearing, Large proves that she is destined to be one of the most electrifying performers of her time.

Red Alert: Portland's Biggest Bash Heats Up Once Again

2009-04-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

If you are new to Portland (or have perhaps been living under a rock) you may not know about the annual Red Dress Party, an event that is arguably one of the most fun (and well-attended) fundraisers in town. Call it a rave (it’s not); call it a block party (that’s closer), or call it “My Big Fat Gay Prom,” Red Dress is the event where Portlanders of all walks kick up their pretty red heels and party all night long in support of local charities.
Last year’s bash saw nearly 2,000 revelers and raised $35,000 for Esther's Pantry, SHARE and Outside In. Partygoers sipped hosted cocktails in the “Red Sea” themed warehouse while dancing and listening to a performance by Storm and the Balls. Midway through the evening, whispers skittered up through the crowd. “Chelsea Clinton is here,” screamed a pretty boy in a bright red Mad Men-style skirt suit, “Omigod! I just saw her!” “Really, darling?” sighed a sequin-speckled drag queen languishing on the couches, “Was she wearing a red dress?” Sadly, she was not.
While Red Dress is a party not to be missed, there is one very simple, but very strict rule. Everyone (and they mean everyone except Chelsea Clinton) must wear a red dress to gain admittance. Manly men who felt threatened by the idea of donning a red frock have tried in vain to wear kilts, culottes and shorts only to be turned away by the divas at the door (usually the perfectly turned out Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence).
This year, they are hoping to raise even more for charitable organizations that support gay youth and those that support the many folks living with HIV/AIDS and other serious diseases. The theme, “Red Eye,” will feature “in-flight entertainment” from Poison Waters, VJ Dantronix, DJ Harmonix, DJ Tronic, and Peach the Fire Spinner, as well as Storm and the Balls. Those lucky enough to snap up some First-Class tickets have the advantage of early admittance, premium cocktails and a performance by Tahoe Jackson.
Tickets get snapped up quickly for this event, but those red dresses go even quicker. At thrift stores, vintage shops and Goodwills across the city, shopping for a dress in the last two weeks before the party is a bit like trying to find a date at your grandmother’s church (i.e. all the good ones are taken and the ones that are left reek of cabbage and baby powder).
Fortunately, there are still a few viable options. On Wednesday, April 8, Zaytoon Bar (2235 NE Alberta Street, 284-1168) will host a Red Dress Exchange party wherein guests can bring an old frock and exchange it for something new and fabulous. On the 16th, there will be a fashion show and fundraiser entitled “Red Threads for Model Citizens” featuring many local celebs (like Sam Adams, Marc Acito and Byron Beck) strutting their stuff in red dresses from local boutiques. Tickets for the event are $75 and include drinks at the New Deal Vodka Bar, food and swag bags.
If you miss those events, you won’t want to miss bingo with the aforementioned Sisters. Every second Sunday of the month, the sisters are pulling balls for cash at the Portland Police Athletic Association Hall (618 SE Alder, portlandsisters.net). But on Sunday, April 19, they will also host a dress exchange in anticipation of the big affair. Doors open at 4pm.
If all that fails you, get creative. Embrace your inner ballerina and make a no-sew tutu. Head to Office Depot for supplies and then whip together a fabulous paper dress. Grab an old t-shirt and make a rocker-chic halter. Or, if nothing else, find a fun cotton dress or lightweight slip and discover the wonders of Rit Dye #5.
That being said, with almost a month until the event, there is still time to hit up those second hand stores. Red Light Clothing Exchange (3590 SE Hawthorne Blvd) has an entire rack of dresses pulled aside just for this shindig. Goodwill (1943 SE Sixth Avenue) and Buffalo Exchange (1036 SW Burnside) both offer a great opportunity to find that one-of-a-kind treasure; and Lord knows Portland has a plethora of great vintage stores to choose from like Magpie (520 SW 9th), Hattie’s (729 E Burnside St # 101).
One last tip: If you decide to shop vintage, do yourself a favor and measure your waist, chest and hips before going in. Those frocks are older than you, baby and chances are, the girls were built just a little bit different back then.
For more information on the Red Dress Party, go to www.reddresspdx.com.

UPDATE: Red Threads for Model Citizens has been canceled due to low ticket sales. Boo! Make sure you don't miss the big event!

Get Hitched! Get tix!

2009-03-19T23:40:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

The recession has everyone watching their wallets, but thanks to a few domestic tax breaks (i.e. buying a house, having a baby, etc) now is actually a pretty good time to get hitched. Earlier this year, Reuters reported that the recession has actually boosted American’s sense of romance. Blame it on the decrease in disposable income (“I don’t know honey, what do you want to do tonight?”) or the the increase in unemployment; whatever the cause, the lovebug is getting some serious action these days.
If you are looking to pop the question, the love-sick folks at Portland Center Stage (128 NW Eleventh Ave, 445-3700, pcs.org) are angling to make it worth your while. Riding the wave of their soon-to-be-closed Victorian love-fest, The Importance of Being Earnest, PCS is still feeling twitterpated and they are trying to spread the love. In a March 4 blog post, the company placed a call to arms for people to get engaged in or around PCS’s home, the historic Armory building. If the newly affianced couple then sends in photographic evidence of the joyous occasion, they will receive three pairs of tickets on the house.
So, head over to Tiffany’s (330 SW Yamhill St, 221-5565, tiffany.com) or hit up Gilt (720 NW 23rd Ave, 226-0629, giltjewelry.com) for a one-of-a-kind vintage ring (it is a recession after all!) and make a date. Grab a pre-made picnic basket from Elephant’s Delicatessen (115 NW 22nd Ave, 299-6304, elephantsdeli.com) stuffed with romantic edibles like salami, almonds, olives, brie, freshly baked baguette, seasonal fruit salad, cookies, chocolate mousse and Izze sodas. Then drop to your knee alongside the building in the tiny but lovely Vera Katz Park, or simply make her blush in front of their iconic red lit wall.
Then reap the rewards of your romantic gesture (the tickets AND the girl, silly!) because they’ve got two shows in April that are worth the effort. Storm Large’s much-anticipated Crazy Enough runs through June and the political drama Frost/Nixon opens April 14. And as PR & Publications Manager Trisha Pancio sites, “Nothing says romance like fallen politicians [and] filthy sex kitten rockstars.”

Portland Unveiled: Getting Hitched in Stumptown Style

2009-03-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

Whether you are planning a big to-do or a simple backyard wedding, the big day can be a big headache to plan. It’s easy to get sucked into the hoopla and suddenly find yourself asking, “Do I really need designer suits and a horse-drawn carriage?” Well, if the tiara fits, then go ahead and have the sort of nuptials that would make royalty blush. After all, how often do you get the chance? But if you’re looking for something with a little more character (and a little less pomp), you’re in luck. Thanks to all the designers, artists and other creative types who have flocked here, Portland is one of the hippest cities to get hitched.
Before you start picking dresses and arranging bouquets, you’ll have to invite your wedding day audience. If you’re keen on being green, take a spin through Oblation Papers & Press (oblationpapers.com), an “old-world letterpress print shop, urban paper mill and fine European-style paper boutique” that turns recycled 100% acid-free cotton garments into beautiful old-school cards and invitations. Consider using a plantable invitation that guests can place in a pot with soil and grow wildflowers like bird’s eyes, poppies or snapdragons. Botanical Paperworks (botanicalpaperworks.com) makes 100% post-consumer waste cotton cards, invitations, journals and wedding favors embedded with North American flower seeds that bloom as the paper breaks down.
Want to eschew traditional invitations all together? These days it’s even more acceptable than ever to plan your wedding electronically. Brides are choosing to use online invitations (like evite.com) that will send invites, provide updates and reminders and keep a running tally of guests. E-Brides are also using the internet to build personalized wedding blogs wherein family and friends can read about the day-to-day trials of nuptial planning, offer their insight and share amusing stories.
Next, of course, you have to get dressed. Thanks to Leanne Marshall’s break-out win on last season’s Project Runway, the world started to pay attention to Portland’s fashion scene. But we already knew that P-Town had a bevy of talent, particularly when it comes to wedding gowns. Allison Covington of Amai Unmei (amaiunmei.com) is a favorite amongst local fashionistas for her mix of clean, classic lines and striking colors. Her 2009 bridal collection is no exception with gowns in silk charmeuse, chiffon, embroidered Italian cotton, opulent brocade and raw dupioni silk in colors that mimic a spring garden.

(Wedding coat by Amai Unmei, Photo by Jessica Hill)
In Portland, individuality reigns and designers like Kate Towers (katetowers.com) and Elizabeth Dye (elizabethdye.com) are popular for their one-of-a-kind creations. Towers, a self-taught designer who sells her wares at Seaplane (e-seaplane.com), creates dresses and wraps that seem to echo nature with their wispy, romantic silhouettes and distinctly Northwest palette. Dye, on the other hand, whose ready-to-wear collection is sold at The English Department (theenglishdept.com), seems to craft dresses that look like they stepped out of a fairytale. A self-professed ruffle addict, Dye’s dresses are pretty confections, perfectly suited for both the bride that dreamt of being a ballerina and the one that still fancies herself Ophelia.
At the Alphabet District’s Lena Medoyeff Bridal (lenadress.com), brides are also encouraged to engage their own inner-designer as they try dresses on, swapping out bright colored sashes and bows to create a personal touch. Designer Lynn Medoff (Medoyeff is her original Russian surname) understands that the “perfect dress” should be an extension of the bride’s personality, so her dresses range from understated and simple day dresses to richly embellished gowns rippling with ruffles, hand-painted flowers and lace.
There’s no need for the groom to opt for the standard rental tux, either. Seyta Selter of Duchess Clothier (duchessclothier.com) has been custom-making suits since 2005 and since then she has become the unofficial dresser of guys who believe than looking natty is not an obligation, it’s an art form. For less than it might take to buy an off-the-rack, one-in-a-million suit, Selter can custom make a three-piece suit for your special day that incorporates your colors with colorful linings, hand-made shirts and dapper accents. Last year, Selter paired up with boutique owner Jordan Saylor of Winn Perry (winnperry.com) and began selling her off-the-rack creations alongside Sovereign Beck ties and the remarkably well-crafted Alden boots. Dana Pinkham (pinkhammillinery.com) is another local favorite and nationally recognized milliner who has also sold a few of her creations at Winn Perry. Come to think of it, the addition of a kicking fedora is all the more reason why Winn Perry is a spot every groom should go before agreeing to spend the day in an uncomfortable, ill-fitting suit.
Once the apparel is taken care of, the next big nightmare task is making sure your guests are fed. Planning a menu can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re having a daytime affair, you may be able to get away with hor d’oeurves and dessert. Or, plan to have a buffet instead of a sit down meal, but keep the size of your guest list in mind. If you over-plan a buffet, it can end up being more costly. Chloe Fennell of locally-owned Eat Your Heart Out (232-4408, eatyourheartout.biz) notes that it is important to be true to yourself when choosing a menu. She says, "The wedding feast...you create together will be memorable for your guests. Choose the style you feel comfortable with and foods you love or have loved sharing throughout your relationship."
(Photo courtesy of Eat Your Heart Out catering)

Of course, the food is place where couples can really express their creativity. Mandy L. of NE Portland writes to tell us that she went with a carnival theme for her July, 2001 wedding. She says, “We used a hot dog cart and had the tables heaped with big bowls of candy and unshelled peanuts.” Another bride says that members of her Italian family (most of whom are known for their cooking) each brought a signature dish to the reception along with a recipe. Guests were then given a “keepsake cookbook of Italian and Sicilian recipes that had been passed down through generations, some of which had been secret up until that day.” Fennell remarks that personality, not expectation is key when planning the big day, "If there is some quirky food that you both love, even if it's not elegant, you can serve it as an hors d'oeuvres. People have never stopped talking about the time we did a potato chip bar that we served at cocktail hour before the guests sat down to an elegant meal.
(Photo courtesy of Eat Your Heart Out catering)
If you opt for a caterer, make sure you find one that is willing to listen to your needs and accommodate them whenever possible. Make use of the bounty we have here in the Northwest and talk to potential caterers about creating a menu that adopts local favorites or things that are in season at nearby farmers markets.
When it comes to your cake, the sky’s the limit. You can choose an elaborately tiered formal cake, artfully displayed trays of cupcakes or even a collection of fresh NW pies. Portland has a number of bakeries that can cater to your particular desires. Want a vegan cake? Check out Sweetpea Baking Company (sweetpeabaking.com), where they concoct some truly stunning (and tasty!) cakes without using any of those pesky animal products like milk, eggs and butter. Can’t decide on a flavor? Call Seri Lopez at Serious Cake (seriouscake.com). She can make a cake the size of a skyscraper that features one of her 17 flavors in each death-defying layer. Want your cake with a little side of kitsch? Jocelyn Barda is your go-to gal at Bakery Bar (bakerybar.com), where you can get a traditional cake or you could opt for a tattoo-inspired heart with bluejays holding a banner that bears the initials of you and your beloved. What could be more Portland than that?
(Sweetpea Cake, Photo by Katie Marggraf)
If you are planning a wedding this year, keep in mind that even though the economy has been tanking, your love has weathered the storm. It’s okay to celebrate. In fact, it’s encouraged. Sing it from the Burnside Bridge. Shout it from the rooftops of downtown. Enjoy the love that you have found. When you decide to tie the knot, your day should not only be a celebration of your union, but of your individuality as well. After all, that’s the reason why you fell in love in the first place.
(Opening photo courtesy of West Coast Events)

The Ink Tank

2009-03-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

By Dave McAlinden

When it comes to tattooing, the ink always seems to receive more recognition than the artist. After all, we get tattoos for ourselves, not to plug the artist who adorned us with it. But the real lifeblood behind the popularity of tattooing comes from the people dedicated to the practice as an art form. They are the ones who carry it on and supply the ever-growing number of those who want tattoos with the gift of style, meaning and distinctiveness. Never one to shy away from an interesting story, I recently interviewed a few local tattoo artists in an attempt to get under their skin and find out what brought them to the profession.
Over at Adorn Body Art (2535 SE Belmont St, 292-7060, adornbodyart.com), a newer shop in Southeast, I spoke with local artist Elias “Eli” Falconette. Originally from So-Cal, he received his first tat when he was 15 years old in “some Vietnamese guy’s house…a friend of a friend,” says Falconette. “It was of this really shitty dragon,” he says, lifting his right shirt sleeve to reveal the spot where the dragon once garlanded the brachialis between bicep and tricep. “I’ve had it covered up so many times,” he adds. When asked how many pieces he has had so far he quips, “Geez, I have no idea… Hopefully one day it’ll be just one big tat.”
Jeff Johnson, a veteran tattoo artist at Sea Tramp Tattoo Co. (207 SE Grand Ave, 231-9784, seatrampcompany.com), the oldest tattoo shop in Portland, recalls the events of his first tat as the result of a magic trick. “I was 15 years old,” he says. “It was at this crossroads motel and I was showing some biker guy my disappearing handkerchief trick.” Johnson goes on to explain how he used a fake, plastic thumb to facilitate the trick. “The biker freaked out and was all, ‘You gotta show me how to do that.’ So I made him a deal: the trick for a tattoo. The tattoo was the symbol of chaos.” Johnson has been in the business for 18 years.
Much like Johnson, Falconette was 15 when he received his first mark (under arguably questionable circumstances). But as Falconette reasons, “I’d rather get a tattoo that’s not very good from someone who’s really cool than get an amazing one from a shitty person.”
It’s interesting that the love of a piece of body art does not lie solely on its aesthetic qualities. When I ask both Johnson and Falconette about their first experiences there is no hesitation about the events; no stopping to think about it. “Tattoos are about the memories,” says Falconette. And while he and Johnson both have a lot of memories circumscribing their art, when asked how many tats they have, each responded with a satisfied lack of awareness. “I don’t know how many tattoos I have, and it’s really not about how many, it’s now more a matter of surface area. I guess you could say I’m at about half,” Johnson replies, twisting his wrist from left to right. Suffice to say that for both Falconette and Johnson, the body acts as a special kind of scrapbook ensconced in art, the extremes of both caliber and context. Just like life.
In the heart of the Alberta Arts District is D’Lacie McBride of Optic Nerve Arts (1223 NE Alberta St, 287-0339, opticnervearts.com), who got her first tattoo (a fairy ring around her waist) at the age of 18. She knew at that moment that she wanted to be a tattoo artist. McBride has been tattooing for three years but she was an artist long before that. “I had been drawing since I was four. My grandma was an artist and my uncle was a D&D (Dungeons and Dragons) miniature painter, so I had some influence,” says McBride. “I love fantasy art, but I have a tendency to (go) towards the organic; flowers, trees, that kind of thing.”
McBride’s own body art, she explains, is a collage constructed by the artists of this city. “I haven’t gone to everyone, but I’ll get there,” she states. The tattoos cover about a fifth of her body. When I ask how many people she’s tattooed in her three years, she just laughs, as if I have asked her to solve some complex math problem. “It’s impossible to tell,” she says. “I can say I have a lot of really great friendships with clients. I like to build friendships with bigger pieces. I have a lot of repeat business and life-long clients.” It’s clear to see that McBride also adheres to Falconette’s observation that it is important to like the person who’s tattooing you. When you consider that alongside her experience, it’s no wonder she has repeat customers.
In light of the current economic climate, many businesses have been experiencing a high loss of revenue resulting in layoffs and, in some cases, closure. Curiously enough, the tattoo industry hasn’t seen much of a blow, at least not in Portland. I’m not sure if this is a testament to the quality of art Portland tattoo artists are producing or the attitude Portlanders have toward the art form. Nevertheless, Johnson revealed that February has been one of his best months. “I think when people purchase something they feel an appropriate amount of guilt. Ya know, after you go shopping you think, ‘Should I have bought that?’ But with tattoos it’s less of an indulgence so there is more respect from the buyer,” says Johnson. “It’s not like you’re buying a pair of shoes. It is something that’s going to last you forever.”
Furthermore, McBride notes that getting a tattoo “is not a body modification alone, it’s therapeutic.” In times of stress people seek therapy and getting a tattoo has a certain feeling of catharsis to it. It’s something you do for yourself and ultimately, it is nice to have something you can call your own that no one can repossess or evict you from. There’s a security in that, I think.
So if you are in the market for a tattoo, if you want something you can call your own, these are artists with whom I recommend you trust your skin. They are dedicated, professional, talented, and above all, really cool people. This is evident in the way that they support each other as well. Artists in this city don’t tend to be all that competitive and are quick to recommend (and patronize) other studios like Altas (4543 N Albina Ave, 281-7499, atlastattoo.com), Infinity (3316 N Lombard St, 231-4777, infinitytattoo.com) and Tiger Lily (4616 NE Sandy Blvd, 288-1555, tigerlillytattoos.com) where they themselves have been inked.
At the end of the day, it all lends itself to boosting an industry that plays a big role in putting Portland on the creative national map—one tattoo at a time. (Photo credit: Cambrae of Daniel James Productions)

Review: Bamboo Sushi

2009-03-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

By Joshua Ryan

Kristofer Lofgren is not your average 20-something Berkeley graduate and restaurateur. You see, Lofgren’s degree in Environmental Studies aligns with Bamboo Sushi’s (310 SE 28th Ave, bamboosushipdx.com) unique stance as the first certified, sustainable sushi restaurant in the country.

Over-harvesting species and overnight shipping of fresh fish have made sushi aficionados some of the most environmentally damaging diners on the planet, and Lofgren wants to change that. The menu at Bamboo Sushi excludes blue fin tuna, octopus and freshwater eel—all overfished species—and his “do good” commitment has resulted in deals with fish purveyors so he gets high quality product while minimizing his carbon footprint. While all that is great, for sushi lovers the bottom line question remains the same: does Bamboo Sushi taste good?

Gladly, the answer is yes. Try the usuzukiri, a delicately-sliced whitefish with finely chopped jalapenos, ponzu and sesame seeds which dazzles with taste—a definite winner. Hamachi carpaccio melds yellowtail, house-smoked cipollini, shitake mushrooms, chervil and sea salts for a scrumptious, sweet taste followed by a salty treat. The Hoki Poke box features sushi with red crab, layers of tuna, avocado, togarashi and poke sauce, and is perhaps the most delectable sushi that this writer has ever consumed.

For non-raw diners, try their black cod with smoked soy and roasted garlic served in a deep, white ceramic dish with a black teriyaki-like sauce. Like many of their entrees, this dish is both unexpected and delicious.

Bamboo Sushi is an exceptional neighborhood eatery. Enjoy this winner and when you taste the good food, remember that it came to the table in a way that also does good. Gochisōsama!

Hydro Healing: The Therapeutic Powers of Water

2009-03-19T11:55:00.001-07:00

By Shanon Emerson

All of us, at one time or another, feel the pain, both mental and physical. Mental pain—stress, anxiety, uncertainty, existential dread (we’ve all been there)—can be difficult to tackle, especially during tough times, which makes it even more important to treat the physical pains that can make everything seem that much worse. For the pain in your body (and in some cases the mental pains caused by stress), there could be a simple solution: water. More precisely, hydrotherapy.

Hydrotherapy is the use of water to treat disease. Some hydrotherapy treatments use hot water alone, some use cold water alone, and others alternate between the two. Most of us are familiar with the hot water and steam versions of hydrotherapy: hot tub, steam room and sauna. Besides the ice pack, the medicinal uses of cold water may be less familiar: cold plunge, cold foot bath and the cold shower.

Hydrotherapy is primarily used to bring relief from muscular pain and to stimulate circulation. Enhanced circulation can strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, heal injured tissue and improve well-being (i.e., alleviate existential dread).

If you are asking yourself right now: since when did water become medicine? The answer is: a long time ago. The ancient Greeks and Romans took therapeutic baths; the Romans even had communal public baths so all citizens could enjoy the benefits. The Turkish bath was a staple cleansing and social ritual of the Ottoman Empire and remains an important institution in the Middle East today.

Hydrotherapy’s basic operating principle is simple: it plays on the body’s natural reactions to hot and cold stimuli. It uses these reactions to excite or soothe skin, muscles, nerves and internal organs in various ways.

Heat is good for general relaxation and for soothing sore and stiff muscles. Immersing your body in the heat from a hot tub, steam room or sauna increases your body’s overall circulation and helps get rid of toxins.

Cold water and ice packs are most often used to reduce the pain and swelling that accompany acute injuries, such as a freshly sprained ankle. An ice pack lowers the temperature of your skin and reduces inflammation caused by the rush of blood and fluid to a recently injured area.

One of the best treatments for injuries that are more chronic is to alternate between hot and cold. Applying heat causes blood vessels to expand or dilate, which brings in nutrients and oxygen along with the increased blood flow. Switching to cold water or ice causes the blood vessels to contract and carry blood, waste and toxins back to the organs that filter or dispose of waste. The proper way to do this is to begin with three to four minutes of heat followed by 30 to 60 seconds of cold. Repeat this cycle three to five times. Make sure to end with cold so the bad stuff is flushed from the affected area.

The hot-cold cycle can also be done as a full-body treatment by taking a quick cold shower right after a hot bath or by alternating hot and cold in a shower. Try three minutes of hot followed by 30 seconds of cold. After three rounds of that you might just feel like a million bucks. If the idea of 90 seconds of cold water raining down on you doesn’t sound appealing, you can work yourself up to it slowly by trying just 30 seconds of cold at the end of a hot shower.

According to Dr. Suzanne Scopes of Circle Healthcare Clinic in Portland, some of her clients swear by the use of warming socks to treat symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections. The first step in this treatment is to warm your feet first by soaking them in warm water. While your feet are still warm, take a pair of cotton socks and saturate them with cold water. Wring them out before putting them on your feet. Then take a pair of dry, wool socks and put them over the wet ones and get in bed. When you wake up the socks will be dry. “Your body heats them up quickly, and the flushing of blood and lymph from the surface of the skin back in seems to stimulate the immune system,” says Dr. Scopes.

If the at-home hydrotherapy spa isn’t your style, Portland has a few places where you can experience the benefits of hydrotherapy and even add in a therapeutic massage to compound your efforts. At Common Ground Wellness Center (236-6850, cgwc.org) in NE Portland you can use their hot tub and sauna for as little as $7 for a half hour and $16 for two hours. Löyly (238-1065, loyly.net) in SE has a sauna and a steam room with hourly rates ranging from $15 an hour to $20 for two hours. Both places have men-only, women-only and co-ed days and times. Check out their websites for details and for a complete list of services.

Now get out there and get your hydrotherapy on. Of course, if you have any health problems be sure to consult your physician first to determine if these treatments are safe for you.

MIX MASTERS: Portland's Top Bartenders Share Their Signature Style

2009-03-19T11:52:00.001-07:00

Kelly Swenson of Ten 01
1001 NW Couch St, 226-3463,
ten-01.com

By Joshua Ryan

Bartending derives from the word attending, as when a servant attends a master. As a modern term, it means to watch over or manage. After meeting Kelley Swenson from Ten 01’s award-winning restaurant and bar, these definitions seem inadequate. Perhaps, the term “bar master” would be more appropriate.

Swenson first learned basic mixology and later began seriously working with classic spirits, visiting distilleries and pouring over books. As bars became more sophisticated, bar masters like Swenson learned the subtle complexities of spirits; when a drink should be shaken or stirred and a myriad of other details that go into crafting an authentic cocktail.

A perfect example of this is the Celeriac, a strange, surprisingly delicious concoction of gin, lemon, pineapple, egg white and celery bitters. It’s rare to see anyone put egg white in a cocktail and shake it to a meringue-like consistency. The concoction is strained twice to eliminate dregs and poured into a martini glass. The drink tastes like celery, which at first seems off-putting because you’ve never tasted anything so, well, celery-ish. But at the same time it is light, cool, refreshing and sublime. This is truly a sophisticated cocktail and you should try one just to say you’ve experienced this revelation.

The Cryptic Memo is another Swenson confection recently lauded by a local publication as “outstanding new cocktail.” Created from a mix of rye whiskey, Ramazzotti Amaro (an Italian bitters created 200 years ago) and campari (orange bitters), the taste is unexpected. It’s spicy from the orange-flavored campari, but that is offset by the Ramazzotti, an orange-based liqueur with darker shades of almost molasses-like cola. When infused with the strong taste of great rye whiskey the result is sophisticated, masculine and altogether amazing.

Ten 01 has put it all together. Award-winning chef Jack Yoss is in the kitchen, sommelier Erica Landon (just named Portland’s best sommelier) anchors the wine cellar, and now Kelley Swenson, bar master extraordinaire, oversees enticing, sophisticated cocktails at the bar. If you’re seeking an all around, superb drinking and dining experience, Ten 01 is ready to impress. (Photo credit: Amaren Colosi)

MIX MASTERS: Portland's Top Bartenders Share Their Signature Style

2009-03-19T11:50:00.001-07:00

Daniel Shoemaker & Evan Zimmerman of Teardrop Lounge
10 NW Everett St, 445-8190, teardroplounge.com

By Shanon Emerson

Daniel Shoemaker had one concern when Ted Charak, a fellow San Franciscan, suggested they move to Portland to open their cocktail-centered restaurant and lounge: Could Portland handle his intense passion for the craft of cocktails?

Shoemaker quickly realized that we Portlanders love our innovative owner-operated businesses and the passions that fuel them. In the case of Daniel Shoemaker and Teardrop Lounge, the perks of supporting his passion are hindered only by our lack of imagination—not his.

When bartender Evan Zimmerman, another Portland newcomer, first got behind the bar at Teardrop, he and Shoemaker discovered that they could geek out together to create some of the most innovative drinks in the city. Consider Zimmerman’s own Aperol Fizz, a mix of Aperol—an Italian aperitif—lemon juice, housemade rose bitters and egg white. If you raised your eyebrows at the thought of putting egg white in your drink, you may reconsider when you hear Shoemaker say that egg whites “add an insanely velvety texture to the cocktail.”

One look at a freshly shaken Aperol Fizz, with its frothy top layer, and you’ll understand why many of Teardrop’s regulars never order the same drink twice. As enticing as the Aperol Fizz might be, Shoemaker and Zimmerman can always come up with an equally-enticing alternative. Aside from constant experimentation and an excess of creativity, it’s their housemade liqueurs and bitters that make the drink menu at Teardrop read almost like a food menu. The flavor possibilities that come from their little blue bottles of bitters and tinctures are virtually endless. With these two cocktail savants behind the bar, you don’t just get to decide what kind of vodka you want in your martini, you can also decide what era the recipe comes from.

If at any point the drink menu starts to overwhelm you, you can always talk it out with Zimmerman or Shoemaker. Start by telling them what you like to drink or what type of flavor you’re in the mood for. They’ll come back with a few questions or suggestions from the menu. If you still can’t settle on something, they might even create a new drink on the spot, just for you. That’s just the way they do it at Teardrop Lounge. (Photo credit: Amaren Colosi)

MIX MASTERS: Portland's Top Bartenders Share Their Signature Style

2009-03-19T11:47:00.001-07:00

Lance Mayhew
of 50 Plates
333 NW 13th Ave, 228-5050 50plates.com

By M. Clarissa Fong

When your low-carb beer or craft brew routine gets tired, refresh the senses by going vintage. At 50 Plates, the bar menu boasts a variety of pre-prohibition and modern cocktail combinations that are developed to perfectly complement their all-American grub. After a brief career as a chef, Lance Mayhew was more than happy to get away from the line and start serving up drinks. His calling took him around the West Coast before he eventually settled at Meriwether’s.

When 50 Plates was looking for a new bartender, Mayhew finally found his permanent home at the chic Pearl joint. Since then, he has already left his unique mark with an original approach to creating cocktails that are anything but run-of-the-mill.

“Sometimes, I’ll see something I like while walking down the street, and I’ll try to recreate that feeling in a cocktail,” says Mayhew. The result: The Swafford Cocktail. Named after Tom Swafford, owner and manager of 50 Plates, this subtly scrumptious classic is served up with rye whiskey, Applejack, Chartreuse green, Maraschino liquor and orange bitters. Once strained into a Martini glass with Kold-Draft ice cubes, the concoction is garnished with an orange twist that adds a kick of autumn flavor to the mix.

If you’re looking to try something a tad more familiar, look no further than the house Mint Julep. “Good bartenders will tell you what they can or can’t make with the resources that they have,” adds Mayhew, a veteran of more than 15 years. “50 Plates is the only place in Portland that can make a real Mint Julep.” Instead of mint-flavored whiskey or julep mixes, fresh leaves are ground and sprinkled into the bottom of a silver cup, which is then filled halfway with crushed ice. A dash of simple sugar is added to release the natural oils in the mint, a shot of bourbon marinates the ice and another scoop of ice tops the cup before the last shot of bourbon is pulled. The julep is simply adorned with a few sprigs of mint and presented with a short straw to allow customers to get up close and personal. But be forewarned, this drink packs a serious punch. (Photo credit: Amaren Colosi)

MIX MASTERS: Portland's Top Bartenders Share Their Signature Style

2009-03-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

Kevin Ludwig
of Clyde Common
1014 SW Stark St, 228-3333, clydecommon.com

By Shanon Emerson

Kevin Ludwig first learned how to make authentic and classic cocktails when he worked at Wildwood, but it was his time behind the bar at Park Kitchen that brought out his inner mixologist. It was there that Park Kitchen chef Scott Dolich first introduced him to flavor profiles. Ludwig took what Dolich taught him about food and applied it to cocktails. Soon he was recreating and improving upon many of a cocktail’s basic or obscure ingredients, often making them from scratch.

One of the basics Ludwig currently makes himself is tonic water. After years of putting up with tonic water containing high-fructose corn syrup and synthetic quinine, Ludwig started making his own with pure cane sugar and actual quinine.

Oscar’s Drink, one of Ludwig’s signature cocktails, is prepared almost entirely using his own handmade ingredients. Inspired by the Waldorf salad and named after Oscar Tschirky—the inventor of the salad—Oscar’s Drink contains Applejack, homemade spiced apple cider Triple Sec, homemade Nocino (green walnut liqueur) and homemade celery bitters. Applejack, a blend of apple brandy and neutral spirits, is a liquor with a colonial pedigree that’s still made by America’s first commercial distillery and the holder of federal liquor license No. 1, Laird and Company.

When asked what makes a great cocktail, Ludwig answered with one word: “balance.” This is the basis upon which Ludwig builds all his cocktails. It also seems to be a key element to the creation of his restaurant and bar, Beaker and Flask, which will be opening soon. When Beaker and Flask does open its doors, Ludwig will have many long-time friends and co-workers at his side, working with him to create a place that they’re all proud of. When people walk in the door of Beaker and Flask, Ludwig wants them “to feel the vibe we get from each other...working together. We actually like each other and love being around each other.” For now, you can enjoy Ludwig’s creations at Clyde Common, a place with its own good vibes. Expect to find him there behind the bar, putting the final touches on his most recent concoctions. (Photo credit: Amaren Colosi)

Sports Spotlight

2008-12-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 30
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Boston Celtics

The Blazers have not only survived, but thrived despite the toughest early season schedule in the NBA. With Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge and Rudy Fernandez all clicking and Greg Oden slowly but surely getting his legs back, it’s time for Blazer fans to start expecting to win every home game, even against the defending champs.

Where: Rose Garden
When: 7pm
Tickets: 797-9600, trailblazers.com
Additional Home Dates: 12/9 vs. Orlando, 12/12 vs. LA Clippers, 12/16 vs. Sacramento, 12/18 vs. Phoenix, 12/23 vs. Denver, 12/25 vs. Dallas, 12/27 vs. Toronto

Pink Martini at the Crystal Ballroom

2008-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

December 28

Come join Portland’s own “little orchestra” for their last show in PDX this year, and get a sneak peak at what to expect from their fourth album which is coming out next year. Pink Martini takes music from all over the globe and turns it into a sound that is all their own—something you can dream to and dance to. The Crystal Ballroom provides the perfect venue for the immense talent that comes with this 12-person band. Lead singer China Forbes will whisk you away on a one-night world tour with her velvety voice and one-of-a-kind style. If you have not seen Pink Martini yet, you are missing out on one of Portland’s great gems. Another local band, The Stolen Sweets, will open for Pink Martini at this all ages show. The doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $27.50 if you buy them in advance and $30 on the day of the show. (225-0047, mcmenamins.com)

–Shanon Emerson

Sports Spotlight

2008-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 26 – Tuesday, December 30
Les Schwab Invitational

Top local and national prep programs––and even some international teams––will be on display at Liberty High School this month for five days of high-quality hoops. This is a great opportunity to check out tomorrow’s stars today, with past participants including big time NBA ballers like Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant. Most days will offer a full slate of games from 9am to about 10pm, while Sunday will feature a slam dunk and three-point contest from 4–7pm.

Where: Liberty High School
When: Fri, Sat, Mon, Tues 9am; Sun 4pm
Tickets: lesschwabinvitational.com

Sports Spotlight

2008-12-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday, December 20
Portland State Vikings vs. Montana Grizzlies

The Vikings were picked to repeat as Big Sky champs in both the preseason media and coaches polls, but both polls also had Montana as a solid second-place contender. This should be a good indicator of where the Viks stand in their first conference game of the season.

Where: Stott Center
When: 7:05pm
Tickets: 888-VIK-TIKS, goviks.com
Additional Home Dates: 12/6 vs. Seattle, 12/9 vs. Lewis & Clark

Wonderball!

2008-12-18T00:00:00.001-08:00

Wonder Ballroom
December 19–20

Wonderball! has been described as a holiday variety show like none other. I don’t know how it’s going to beat the Dean Martin Show, but I’m willing to give it a shot. You should, too. During this two night entertainment extravaganza—December 19 and 20—at the Wonder Ballroom, you will witness an array of talent with performers such as Mayor-Elect Sam Adams, drag diva Darcelle, The Mercury’s Dan Savage and Mic Crenshaw, not to mention China Forbes and Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini. Of course, with headliners Storm and the Balls, the show promises to be a mishmash of “music, comedy, bawdiness, naughtiness and special surprises unlike any show you’ll see this holiday season.”

The proceeds from the silent auction and a friendly portion of the event’s profit will go to benefit both The Oregon Music Hall of Fame and Planned Parenthood. General Admission tickets are $20 per night. Limited VIP seated tickets are available for $30. This includes front seating, private bar and a meet and greet with Storm and the Balls!

–Dave McAlinden

Presidents of the United States of America

2008-12-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Crystal Ballroom
December 19

Remember the Presidents of the United States of America? You know, the guys who saved the Boggles from fading into one-hit-wonder oblivion. That’s right, I said it! Well, if you want to see them put on one hell of a good show, you can. Ticket prices are between $18 and $20; and I would suggest getting them early given the band’s popularity.

When the Seattle-born pop group formed in 1993, their pop-punk flare and catchy melodies caught the ears and captured the hearts of many happy fans. Fifteen years and five albums later they’ve come to Portland once again to bless us with new tracks from their latest album, These are the Good Times People. I don’t know how, but I feel this album is even more poppy than any previous. With that said, the Crystal Ballroom is the perfect setting for fans of this persuasion; the flexing floor is great for the I’m-a-white suburbanite-and-can’t-dance-so-I’m-just-going-to-hop-in-place-until-the-song-ends-and then-feel-awkward-between-sets dance style linked to the group’s central demographic. Suffice to say that it will be a good time. I really hope they play “Dune Buggy,” that’s a good one. I like that one.

–Dave McAlinden

Portland Saturday Market’s Festival of the Last Minute

2008-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

December 17–24

T’was the week before Christmas, and all through the city people were shopping at Portland Saturday Market’s Festival of the Last Minute, where they could find crafts, jewelry, baby gifts, candles, instruments, art, pottery, toys, games and so much more. They have it all, so if you are starting to worry that you won’t get all your shopping done or that you won’t find the right gift for everyone on your list, worry no more. Take a stroll down the rows of tents at the Festival of the Last Minute and the gift ideas will start flowing. You may even find the perfect gift; and when you do it will likely have been made by a local artist or craftsperson, which means you can give a homemade gift without having to make it yourself. Most booths take credit cards and there is an ATM machine at the market as well. So slow down, take a break and wait until the last minute. The Saturday Market will be open during the week starting on December 17 from 11am–6pm, on Saturday from 10am–5pm and on Sunday from 11am–4:30pm through Christmas Eve. Visit their website for a list of vendors. (portlandsaturdaymarket.com)

–Shanon Emerson

18th Annual Champagne Ball

2008-12-15T00:00:00.001-08:00

December 31

Looking for that one right party to end 2008? Look no further and get ready to ring in the New Year at the 18th Annual Champagne Ball. This party has been going strong for 18 years and is now “one of the largest New Year’s Eve events on the West Coast,” according to the event’s official website. There will definitely be enough going on to keep you interested with six individually-themed rooms and a total of 32,000 square feet of party space, including four dance floors on two different levels. You could choose to see 5 Guys Named Moe playing Motown and ’70s dance music in the Boogie Wonderland or Hit Machine playing dance hits from the ’80s and ’90s in the Blue Moon Ballroom. The point is, there is plenty of music to get you moving and enough space to keep you moving. Plus there is a no-jeans dress code, and what better night than New Year’s Eve to kick it up a notch. Cocktail attire is a minimum just to get you in the door.

Check out the website to determine what package you want. They offer everything from general admission to your own VIP lounge. Choose your adventure and have a happy New Year. (champagneball.com)

–Shanon Emerson

Sports Spotlight

2008-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday, December 13
Pape’ Jam: Oregon Ducks vs. San Diego Toreros

The Ducks will make their annual visit to the Rose Garden this month, but it’ll be a very different Oregon team with Malik Hairston, Bryce Taylor and Maarty Leunen all having graduated. This year’s squad belongs to pint-sized gunner Tajuan Porter, dynamic forward Joevan Catron and a collection of intriguing young prospects like freshman center Michael Dunigan.

Where: Rose Garden
When: 5pm
Tickets: 877-789-ROSE, rosequarter.com
Additional Home Dates (all at McArthur Court): 12/7 vs. Kansas State, 12/13 vs. San Diego, 12/17 vs. St Mary’s, 12/20 vs. Portland, 12/29 vs. Long Beach State

The Pretenders & Amos Lee

2008-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Roseland Theater
December 12

Is it me or is going to a Pretenders and Amos Lee concert like going to see Cher and Ben Harper? Hmm. It is quite an odd pairing, isn’t it? On the one hand you have The Pretenders, a British group, formed in 1978, that has since developed into a blend of ’80s new wave and early ’90s rock ’n roll. Then, on the other hand, you have Amos Lee, a relatively new face when compared the Pretenders’ resume, whose sound stems from old-timey blues and folk story telling. Nevertheless, the abnormal coupling of the two artists might prove a complement to each other.

To their credit, they both put on involved, high-energy performances and each have a large fan base. Speaking of, both have had albums come out this year with a high degree of positive response. The Pretenders’ Break Up the Concrete debuted at number 32 on Billboard’s album chart in October; and Amos Lee’s Last Days at the Lodge received critical acclaim. The show will be happening at the Roseland Theater on December 12 with ticket prices slightly expensive at $40 a pop.

–Dave McAlinden

Meshell Ndegeocello

2008-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Aladdin Theater
December 10

Despite the fact that I don’t particularly enjoy the musical stylings of Meshell Ndegeocello, I do possess a great deal of respect for the magnitude of her talent.

One would have no ear for music to say she is not good at what she does—she most certainly is. In fact, she’s good enough to merit nine Grammy nominations since the inception of her most impressive debut album, Plantation Lullabies, in 1993. And, oh, the woman can slap a bass—it’s like watching a fireworks display soaked in sweat. That is to say I don’t only appreciate her skills as a musician, but her wowing ability as a performer leaves me a little rapt regardless of my aural preferences.

Starting young in music, Ndegeocello attended The Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C. from which she hails. Her music incorporates soul, hip hop, reggae, R&B, acid jazz, rock and of course, FUNK. If you would like to hear this seamless cacophony of genre and style you can purchase tickets to see Ndegeocello perform on the 10th for only $25.

–Dave McAlinden

One Night in Frogtown

2008-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Bagdad Theater
December 6

Do you enjoy music? Do you embrace cultural diversity? If you do—and I hope you do—you will thoroughly enjoy Philip Pelletier’s One Night in Frogtown (One World Musical Books), a critically acclaimed story that was nominated for the 2008 Oregon Book Award for Children’s Literature. One Night in Frogtown tells the coming-of-age tale of a saxophone wailing tadpole which will be performed by Curtis Salgado, Linda Hornbuckle, Devin Phillips and Oregon Symphony soloists on Saturday, December 6 at the Bagdad Theater (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 236-9234). At $5 a pop, the tickets are a pinch for the amount of fun you and your family will have. Get tickets at the Bagdad Theater, the Crystal Ballroom box office and ticketmaster.com.

–Dave McAlinden

“Maternal Legends”

2008-12-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

23 Sandy Gallery

Merriam-Webster defines the word legend as “a person or thing that inspires.” The artists who are featured in this month’s exhibit at 23 Sandy Gallery have created art inspired by family—specifically the women in their family. The influence our mothers, grandmothers and sisters have had on our lives often derives from the way their own mothers and grandmothers shaped their lives. The books created by artists from around the world for “Maternal Legends” are born out of this inspiration.

This exhibit will feature artwork related to the book arts, which have been created in editions and as one-of-a-kind pieces of art. Artist books, sculptural books, book objects, altered books, zines and broadsides will all be included in this themed exhibit.

The show will be juried by Cara List, the art and art history librarian at the University of Oregon’s Architecture and Allied Arts Library. As the curator of the Artists’ Book Collection, she teaches extensively with artists’ books. List earned a master of fine arts degree in painting from the School of Visual Arts in New York, where she worked and exhibited for a number of years before she earned a second masters in information science at the University of Michigan.

There will be a reception for the artists on Friday, December 5 from 6pm–9pm, and the show will run from December 5–January 3. Gallery hours are Thursday–Saturday from 12pm–6pm. For more information, visit 23gallery.com.

–Shanon Emerson

Blitzen Trapper

2008-12-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Wonder Ballroom
December 4

Imagine Neil Young and Stephen Malkmus (Pavement) were in a serious relationship. Now imagine Malkmus once cheated on Young with Jeff Tweedy (Wilco). Then suppose the Pavement lead got pregnant as a product of this affair and they both vowed to keep the true origin of the pregnancy a secret. In an attempt to eradicate his estranged guilt, Malkmus convinces Young to move to Oregon. Young, not knowing the baby is another musician’s love child, raises it with his partner to the best of his influence. That baby then grows into Blitzen Trapper, a Portland band on SubPop that can rival Beck in any contest of composition and lyricism.

Hypothetical situations aside, Blitzen Trapper is a well-coordinated group of solid musicians. They are what Dylan might have sounded like in the ’90s if he didn’t have his weird little breakdown in the ’70s. With clean Southwestern progressions—which aren’t country enough to be car-commercial annoying—coupled with the depth and cadence lyrics should possess, one can most certainly say that Blitzen Trapper pretty much rocks. They also fill that hollowness that seems to ache in the background of most folk songs with a fantastic electric ambience which sets them apart. It will be nice to welcome them home; all ages are welcome to do so.

Tickets are available either through the Wonder Ballroom or TicketMaster for about 10 bucks—well worth the show, if I may say. If you’ve never heard their music I would suggest checking out the tracks “Furr” from the album of the same name, and “Big Black Bird” from EP 3—they really kick ass.

–Dave McAlinden

OMSI After Dark

2008-12-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

December 3

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is about to bring you science, sans kids. We all know OMSI is cool, but sometimes, whether you’re a parent or not, it’s hard to really enjoy the museum when the kid energy is so high. Fortunately, OMSI will be opening its doors to the 21-and-older crowd on December 3; no kids, just science. Did we mention that there will be food, beer and wine too? It’s all in the name of science, of course. You will be able to learn about the science behind food and beverages from local artisans from establishments such as Caffe Vita, Full Sail Brewing, Clear Creek Distillery and Moonstruck Chocolate. Don’t worry, there will also be appetizers and a cash bar if you want more that just a nibble or a sip. While you’re enjoying your beverage you can explore the entire museum and check out all the things those pesky kids would never let you near. The museum will be open from 6pm–10pm on December 3. Admission is free for members and is $10 for non-members. (omsi.edu/afterdark)

–Shanon Emerson

Small Works Show

2008-11-30T23:59:00.001-08:00

Waterstone Gallery

Susan Johnson and her oil-bar drawings are the feature of Waterstone Gallery’s small works show, which starts in December and runs through January.

Johnson’s images have the strength of oil paintings, but they are drawn with layers of lines using oil-paint sticks referred to as oil bars. To create these bars, pigments are fused with waxes and refined linseed oil to create the quality of oil paint with the convenience of a crayon-like utensil. The drawings are created on acid-free mat board framed behind glass or drawn on paneled clay or gesso board.

The artist describes her art as “contemplations on the incidents and scenes of my personal experience. Abstracted to their basic shapes, they become bold color-blocked landscapes, shadowy patterns suggesting a human presence, or vibrant and rhythmic still lifes. Trees, images ‘windowed’ within images, shadows and colors are used to go beyond a simple landscape to suggest human interactions, emotions, and reactions. Pathways, the passage of time, human relations are common themes.”

About the small works, she says, “The little pictures quite effectively transcend their size with surfaces of layered, soft hues that seem capable of moving beyond their edges.”

Waterstone Gallery is located at 424 NW 12th Ave and hours are Wednesday–Saturday from 12pm–6pm and Sunday from 12pm–4pm. For information, visit waterstonegallery.com.

–Shanon Emerson

The PDX Celebrity Gift Guide

2008-11-30T16:07:00.000-08:00

The gifts we'd give Portland's movers and shakers.
read full article

High Steaks, Low Cost

2008-11-30T16:06:00.000-08:00

You’ve probably passed one of them while driving down Broadway or Burnside. You may have even paused for a moment and stared longingly, imagining the taste, the smell, the experience. But you know you can’t afford it, so you drive away, left only with the lingering fantasy of what could have been... read full article

Let It Show

2008-11-30T16:05:00.000-08:00

They were stacking up the Christmas candy mere days after Halloween, and while it seems like it sneaks up on us every year, there’s no denying that the holidays are now upon us. If you’re tired of watching It’s a Wonderful Life and can’t bear the idea of sitting through Drake & Josh: Best Christmas Ever, perhaps it’s time to get out and see some theatre. Whether or not you’re in the Christmas spirit, chances are there’s a holiday show that will cater to your needs... read full article

Neighborhood Profile: Pearl Diving

2008-11-30T16:04:00.000-08:00

The Pearl is one of the most tempting neighborhoods in town. Packed to the gills with art and entertainment, some of our favorite restaurants and that certain trendy nip to the air, there is something for everyone tucked neatly into its confines. What else is there, you ask? Shopping, and plenty of it, with more shops and stores than you would dare shake any sort of stick at. So let us highlight just a handful of the browse-worthy spots that call our beloved district home... read full article

Catch Him If You Can

2008-11-30T16:03:00.001-08:00

Jeremiah Dominguez freezes his defender with a nasty crossover dribble, creates space and drains a three-pointer. Prior to that shot his Portland State Vikings were down by seven points early in the second half, but on this night, Dominguez doesn’t look like he plans on losing. Not on his home court. Not against his former team and current crosstown rival, the Portland Pilots. And especially not with all the lofty expectations his Vikings have to live up to this season. read full article

Holiday Haven

2008-11-30T16:03:00.000-08:00

With more than 156 million visits last year, going to the spa has become more of a basic lifestyle than just an occasional luxury. The popularity of spa treatments and retreats continues to grow as both women and men find themselves relaxing with the help of today’s spa experience—from medical and spiritual programs to outdoor adventures and exotic travel. So whether you’re a seasoned spa connoisseur or a stunned spa virgin, Portland offers affordable gift packages and personalized “spa-cations” that will leave your skin smelling like, well, roses... read full article

Island Renaissance

2008-11-30T16:02:00.000-08:00

The first time I visited Oahu, I was on a FAM (familiarization) trip with my mom, a travel agent. That was, of course, before the internet age, a time when travel agents were most often the only connection between a getaway spot and an inexperienced traveler. In the three days that we spent on the island, we were bombarded with hotel tours, luau shows and an unhealthy amount of pineapple. I expected as much when I returned recently, but discovered that the island has a pulse oftentimes overlooked by the average tourist... read full article

of Montreal

2008-11-20T00:00:00.001-08:00

Roseland
November 20

This Georgia band makes indie pop music. Kevin Barnes, the band’s leading man, has always been one to keep your eye on, and on their latest and ninth album, Skeletal Lamping — which was released last month—a little something has changed. In the past, their content has been a mash-up of autobiographical loner teen angst and personal growth. Now, in a schizophrenic frenzy of alter egos, Barnes seems to be emerging with a different sound. While the band is both narrative and personal in lyrical content and style, their juxtaposition of gloomy themes overridden by positive and upbeat hooks and melodies is one that sets the band apart from their other contemporaries. Listen closely and you will hear stories of loneliness, apathy and death, but by the melodies you would never guess such darkness is riding just beneath the surface. They are masters at this craft and are proven musical geniuses, continuing to reinvent themselves with each new album.

–Jenny Rapf

By the Book

2008-11-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

Annie Leibovitz
November 20

For those of you who are not familiar with the name Annie Leibovitz, shame on you. She is possibly the most famous, not to mention talented, contemporary photographer in the United States. From 1973–83 she was the head photographer for Rolling Stone Magazine; her work—largely responsible for shaping the publication’s iconographic veneer—has graced the cover numerous times, and to great effect.

If the name Leibovitz still isn’t ringing any bells, she’s also the one who took the last professional photograph of John and Yoko hours before Lennon’s unfortunate death. And, more recently, you might recognize her work via Vanity Fair, for which she photographed Demi Moore’s controversial nudes that twice graced the cover. The Leibovitz canon is a staple of Americana, providing valuable insight into the dichotomy of public and private life in American culture. If you’d really like to experience the range of her talent then I would recommend picking up her newest collection, A Photographer’s Life 1990–2005, at your local bookstore. If a book isn’t enough to appease your intellectual desires, you will have the opportunity of attend a lecture at the Schnitzer Concert Hall, which will be presented by Portland Arts & Lectures, on November 20. Tickets can be purchased through the Portland Center for Performing Arts (pcpa.org) or Ticketmaster (224-4400, ticketmaster.com) for $12–28.

The Mighty Underdogs

2008-11-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Satyricon
November 18

This is a new hip hop super group that I was unaware of until their publicist recently came a knocking at my door. What sparked my interest is the fact that two of my favorite emcees are part of this so-called “super group”: Lateef The Truth Speaker (formerly of Latyrx) and Gift of Gab, most well known for his genius with another NoCal hip hop super group, Blackalicious. But where does the third member, Headnodic, come from? That was nothing a quick Google search couldn’t uncover, and sure enough, I found GOLD. Headonic is a producer formerly of the Crown City Rockers (said to still be working on an album) who was lured into The Underdogs by Lateef when he came to the conclusion that since he liked so many of Headonic’s own tracks, why not invite him to be a part of the group. Gift of Gab was already in the mix as a planned collaborator, and the rest is pure hip hop. If you like Latyrx and Blackalicious, this show is for you; they sound like a quality mish-mash of both. Their official, unofficial first album, released on Definitive Jux last month, is titled Droppin Science Fiction. It boasts a confirmed guest list that is pretty impressive, with names like DJ Shadow, Damian Marley, Mr. Lif and Tash from the Alkoholiks, just to name a few. This is hip hop, ya’ll.

–Jenny Rapf

2008 Northwest Food and Wine Festival

2008-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Memorial Coliseum
November 15

Fall is a time for harvest celebrations, and what better way to celebrate the earth’s gifts than with gourmet food and wine. The third annual Northwest Food and Wine Festival will give you a chance to see, smell and savor the bounty of the Northwest. The main floor of the exhibit hall will feature over 600 wines to taste and gourmet food samples from 50 restaurants, including a raw oyster and seafood bar, a chocolate fountain and offerings from locally-recognized chefs. In the exhibit hall, wineries and restaurants will be intermingled to provide you with the chance to try a wide array of gourmet pairings. Music on several stages will add to the epicurean atmosphere, and throughout the evening, sommeliers and chefs will be available to answer questions.

If you’re looking for a great wine buy, you’ll be able to take advantage of the bottle and case discount and free shipping offered by many of the wineries. This should be a rich and rewarding experience for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Tickets, which include all wine and food samples, are $75 for admission from 5–9pm, or you can start at 4pm and get an extra hour of eating and drinking with the $95 “preferred” ticket. (nwfoodandwinefestival.com)

Mickey Avalon

2008-11-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dante’s
November 14–15

Calling all the single fellas lookin for an easy score—this is your night my friends! This show will be littered with drunk, sweaty semi-unconscious young ladies. You may have seen Mickey gracing those Boost Mobile ads on TV with the likes of Young Jeezy and Jermaine Dupri, but you probably had no idea who this heavy on the eye make-up, Hollywood heroine addict look-a-like is. It’s the notoriously raunchy Mickey Avalon, and the chicks LOVE him. He’s the ultimate dirt-bag rock star and I say that in the nicest way possible. Avalon is no stranger to the dark side of life; by his early 20’s he was already married with a child, living in Portland and prostituting to support his heroine addiction. He’s got the rode hard, put away wet look down solid and it’s no surprise with a life like his. His lyrics really spell out his own best intentions and they take shape in the form of big booty girls sporting tramp stamps and pants that slide off at the drop of a hat. His hooks and songs are no doubt some of the best cuts to get any dance floor hoppin’. This show will be dirty, loud and quite the scene. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for topless men and women because there will be A LOT of them.

–Jenny Rapf

Ingrid Michaelson

2008-11-10T13:13:00.000-08:00

Wonder Ballroom
November 11

Ingrid Michaelson is from Staten Island, New York. She makes indie pop music for the masses and reminds me of a more modern version of Lisa Loeb — but maybe that’s just the glasses. Her latest album, BE OK, hit stores last month and—bless her little philanthropic heart—some of the proceeds of her album sales go to Stand Up To Cancer. I must say, I LOVE Michaelson’s single, “As I Am,” but I HATE the video. Ingrid, baby, didn’t anyone ever tell you scary/sad clowns are actually really scary? They are, and you shouldn’t have a whole video dedicated to them, scaring the crap out of your poor unbeknownst viewers. Just a thought.

–Jenny Rapf

Wild Beauty: Photographs of the Columbia River Gorge

2008-11-10T11:02:00.000-08:00

Through January 11

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then I’m going to need a lot more room. For what is about to be discussed contains 200 of them—pictures, that is. And I should know, my lovely artist companion and I counted them…twice.

As we strolled, wide-eyed, through the corridors of the Portland Art Museum (portlandartmuseum.com) passing baroque oils, Picasso prints and motley lithographs, the faint sound of a pleased crowd softly echoed between the walls and open space of the second floor passageways. We followed this sound, which, to our surprising delight, led to the Wild Beauty exhibit — a 90 year photo-survey of the Columbia River Gorge, spanning from 1867–1957.

The work of photographers such as landscape genius Carlton Watkins and railway pioneer Frank J. Haynes display the magnificence etched in the ever-changing face of the Columbia River. As you’ll learn from the exhibition, their work was quite innovative in the field of photography, from their choice in camera and developing methods to the contextual fabric of the photos themselves. By combining nature and industry, creation and destruction, and the vast scope of extraordinary land, the photographs render an impact on their observers that leave them rapt in the overwhelming power of time.

The show runs until January 11th of next year. General admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $9 if you are a student or senior and free if you are under the age of 17. But keep in mind, given all the fantastic works that can be found in our beloved Museum, the Wild Beauty exhibit alone is worth the price of admission.

Northwest Film and Video Festival

2008-11-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

Whitsell Auditorium
November 7–15

Yes, it’s true. There is so much talent in the Northwest that we need our own film festival just to behold a portion of it. Now in its 35th year, the Northwest Film and Video Festival will present feature, short and documentary films. This year’s judge, Kelly Reichardt, filmed her last two features — Old Joy (2006) and Wendy and Lucy (2008) — in Oregon. Her most recent film, Wendy and Lucy, will be screened on closing night at this year’s festival. Fifty films will be shown over the course of eight days, all of them made by artists from Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, Montana or Idaho. More than 30 filmmakers will attend the festival and many will be available to take questions after their films, so come see what’s on the minds of our Northwest neighbors. The Northwest Film Center, which hosts the festival and is part of the Portland Art Museum, was established as a resource for media arts in our region. It offers a variety of film and video exhibitions in addition to education and information programs throughout the year. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. (221-1156, nwfilm.org)

High Culture Calendar

2008-11-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

Dance

Dance Gatherer – An Abstract Portrait of Two Lives. Nov 4–12. Back Door Theater. $10–$15, 230-2090, dancegatherer.org.

Oslund+Co – Bête Perdue. Nov 21–23, 8pm. Imago Theater. $14–$16, 234-3557, oslundandco.org.

The Portland Ballet – La Boutique Fatasque. Nov 28–29, Sat 2:30pm & 7pm, Sun 1pm & 4pm. Newmark Theater. $TBA, 452-8448, theportlandballet.org.

tEEth – Grub. Nov 13–15, 7pm & 9pm. Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center. $15, 806-6423, ifccarts.org.

White Bird – Uncaged: Kidd Pivot. Nov 12–15, 8pm. Kaul Auditorium. $26, 245-1600, whitebird.org.

Classical Music

Oregon Symphony – Brahms Violin Concerto. Nov 22–24, Sat–Sun 7:30pm, Mon 8pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. $19.75–$107.50, 228-1353, orsymphony.org.

Oregon Symphony – Lauderdale Plays Gershwin. Nov 15–17, Sat–Sun 7:30pm, Mon 8pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. $19.75–$136, 228-1353, orsymphony.org.

Oregon Symphony – Von Trapp Family Christmas. Nov 29–30, Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. $19.75–$97.50, 228-1353, orsymphony.org.

Portland Baroque Orchestra – Pergolesi, Naples, and Julius Caesar. Nov 21–22, Fri–Sat 7:30pm. First Baptist Church. $25–$43, 222-6000, pbo.org.

Theater

Artists Repertory Theater – Speech & Debate. Through Nov 23, Thu–Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. $25–$30, 241-1278, artistsrep.org.

Artists Repertory Theater – Holidazed. Nov 18–Dec 28, Thu–Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. $20–$47, 241-1278, artistsrep.org.

Coho Productions – The Receptionist. Through Nov 22, Thu–Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. $20–$25, 220-2646, cohoproductions.org.

Oregon’s Children Theater – James and the Giant Peach. Nov 1–23, Sat 2pm & 5pm, Sun 2pm, Fri 21, 7pm. Newmark Theater. $17–$29, 228-9571, octc.org.

Oregon Repertory Theater – The Lady with All the Answers. Nov 13–Dec 7, Thu–Sun 2pm & 7:30pm. Brunish Hall. $29.25–$35, 224-4400, oregonrep.org.

Portland Center Stage – R. Buckminster Fuller: THE HISTORY (and Mystery) OF THE UNIVERSE. Through Dec 7, Tues–Sun 12pm, 2pm, 7:30pm. Ellen Bye Studio. $15–$45, 445-3700, pcs.org.

Portland Center Stage – Guys and Dolls. Through Nov 15, Tues–Sun 12pm, 2pm, 7:30pm. Gerding Theater. $17–$72, 445-3700, pcs.org.

Portland Opera – Fidelio. Nov 7–15, Fri 7:30pm, Sun 2pm, Thu 7:30pm, Sat 7:30pm. Keller Auditorium. $39–$162, 241-1802, portlandopera.com.

Profile Theater – Lost in Yonkers. Nov 20–23, Thu–Fri 7:30pm, Sat 2pm & 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. Profile Theater. Call for price, 242-0080, profiletheater.org.

Super Project Lab Improv – Meet Your ______! Through Nov 22, Sat 8pm. Winningstad Hall. $14, 230-9061, superprojectlab.com.

Literary

Keith Lee Morris – The Dart League King. Nov 10, Mon 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Rolf Potts – Marco Polo Didn’t Go There. Nov 11, Tue 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,   powells.com.

Lee Woodruff – Life Changes in an Instant. Nov 12, Wed 7:30pm. First Congressional Church. $139, 243-3440, voicesinc.com.

Laura Foster – Portland City Walks. Nov 13, Thu 7:30pm. Annie Bloom’s Books. 246-0053, annieblooms.com.

Amitay Ghosh – Sea of Poppies. Nov 13, Thu 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Benjamin Parzybok – Couch: A Novel. Nov 14, Fri 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Alicia Paulson – Stitched in Time: Memory-Keeping Projects to Sew and Share from the Creator of Posie Gets Cozy. Nov 16, Sun 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Henry Ownings – The Rock Bible. Nov 17, Mon 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Ingrid Newkirk – One Can Make a Difference. Nov 19, Wed 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Annie Leibovitz – Portland Arts & Lectures Series. Nov 20, Thu 7:30pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 248-4335, pcpa.com.

Peter N. Carroll & Peter Glazer – Editors of War Is Beautiful: An American Ambulance Driver in the Spanish Civil War. Nov 21, Fri 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Donald Worster – A Passion for Nature: The Life of John Muir. Nov 23, Sun 7:30pm. Powell’s City of Books. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Jeff Kaliss – I Want to Take You Higher: The Life and Times of Sly and the Family Stone. Nov 24, Mon 7:30pm. Powell’s on Hawthorne. 228-4651,  powells.com.

Northwestern Comfort

2008-11-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

We all know that times are tough. Just take a look at your dwindling 401K, or fill up at the gas station, or turn on a presidential debate and listen to our politicians promise the world to the middle class, then turn around and help Wall Street pull the biggest dine-and-dash in history, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. What? $700 billion?! But I only ordered a salad! read full article

An Affair to Remember

2008-11-06T09:43:00.001-08:00

Holiday parties can run the gambit: a chic socialite soriee, a family affair or a catered kegger all seem well within the rollicking realm. Being the capable person that you are, you’re most likely plenty able to class up your joint with festive décor, put on some old records or pop playlists and plan a tailor-made fete de résistance. So how can we help? How about a few wonderfully mouth watering DIY catering suggestions from a pro and a solid pointing in the direction of some excellent December decorations? Okay, food first... read full article

Raising the Home Bar

2008-11-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

With holiday parties rapidly approaching, a bit of panic can set in for those of us hosting. But if you can lock down a few key elements, others will tend to fall nicely into place. On the subject of elements, and considering the nip in the air, a warm and cozy party will fit the bill to a T. And what welcomes people in from the cold better than a well stocked bar? read full article

Neighborhood Profile: The Cultured Pearl

2008-11-06T09:31:00.000-08:00

Nothing divides Portlanders’ opinions as hotly as the Pearl District. Many of us love wandering around its boutique-lined streets, coffee in hand, window-shopping for antique furniture and peeping into the storefronts of its many art galleries. Others, however, bemoan its rapid development, calling for a return to the bleakly romantic, ivy-coated warehouse district of years past. Love it or hate it, the Pearl is where we all end up on the first Thursday of every month, sipping free wine out of plastic cups and marveling at the bewildering creative energy of our town... read full article

Touch & G.O.

2008-11-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

It’s early October, and just five minutes into his first preseason game in a Trail Blazer uniform, Greg Oden is already gassed. His teammates have quickly made the transition from offense to defense, but all eyes in the Rose Garden remain fixed on the lumbering big man as he deliberately crosses halfcourt and makes his way to the post... read full article

Hypnotic Help

2008-11-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

Anxious over the elections? Feeling the stress of the economic crunch? Maybe your fears are a bit closer to home and you’re already dreading the 2009 smoking ban or the looming New Year and its resolutions? Hypnotherapy may be able to help ease your stress, overcome your fears and a make a fresh start out of those old bad habits... read full article

Secret Gardens II

2008-11-06T08:57:00.000-08:00

Midway through my Kauai adventure, I am already enamored with the island. My speculations about its appeal to the average adventure-seeking, nature-loving Portlander were proven true (see "Secret Gardens," October 2008), and I was only three days into the trip. But as my cab driver/tour guide Ante drove me to my next destination (the much-touted North Shore) I was feeling just a bit overwhelmed... read full article

Weekend Hotlist

2008-10-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Portland Erotic Ball

On Halloween, join the cool kids at the Crystal Ballroom for the biggest, best, erotic themed party in the Northwest. The evening includes performances by Pepe & the Bottle Blondes, Broken Soviet and the March Forth Marching Band, as well as a burlesque show by The Rose City Sirens, and fetish demonstrations by the Lady Alycyn. Ooh la la! This gig is a "costume mandatory event" (which means they won't let you in if you show up in your own tight jeans and hoodie and say you're dressed as a "hipster"). If your costume is really cool, you might even win some cash. In fact, PDX Magazine will be helping judge the costume contest where winners will receive $5,000 in cash and prizes. Tickets ($30adv/$35door) are on sale at Taboo Video or online and can also be purchased at the door. Snatch up a VIP ticket if you still can because it includes a hosted bar!

LA CARPA DEL MAESTRO EL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

Every fall, Miracle Theatre pulls out all the stops with their Day of the Dead production, written this year by Martín Milagro. In it, the dead are commemorated with a lively show of dance, music and theatre. Miracle is celebrating their 25th Anniversary season (no small feat!)and director Phillip Cuomo says they wanted to explore the ideas and relationships that exist between "folkloric master" and "contemporary apprentice." The show, a "mod, mid-century mash of bobby-soxers and beatniks, a defining point in time when culture revered — and counter-culture reinvented — tradition" plays through November 9. This weekend, however is a great time to catch the show because Day of the Dead (the traditional day of remembrance Mexican heritage) falls on November 1 and 2.

Halloween on Broadway at Portland Center Stage

If you're as fond of costuming as we are, you'll love this event. Dress up like your favorite Broadway character and get $10 tickets to the Halloween performance of Guys & Dolls or R. Buckminster Fuller: THE HISTORY (and Mystery) OF THE UNIVERSE (We wonder if the one above counts. It was oddly mislabeled as "theatre critic").
Ten dollars! Seriously, with ticket prices being what they are today, we sort of wish they'd implement a "dress as a character, get a deal" thing permanently. Come to think of it, given their line up, it could be fun. Top hats and bonnets for A Christmas Carol? Circa 1969 white shirts and black ties for Apollo? And we can only begin to imagine what sort of costuming Ms. Large would inspire.
After the show, stay for the party and enjoy complimentary beer from Deschutes Brewery, as well as wine and a few treats, and a costume contest (judged by the PCS costume shop, natch) where you could win a pair of "Broadway at Home" season passes to PCS. (Pssst! Here's the secret code to get your $10 tix: SPOOKY for Guys and Dolls and BOO for R. Buckminster Fuller.)

Portland Trailblazers v. San Antonio Spurs

Oh no-den! Despite the disappointing debut of Portland's seemingly cursed wunderkind against the L.A. Lakers on Tuesday, we were still hopeful. We were hoping Greg Oden would hammer down his first two-handed dunk on Tim Duncan’s head, the entire building would shake, the roof would be blown off the Rose Garden and the heavens would part, officially ushering in a new era of Blazer basketball. Sadly, he's out for at least two weeks. Nonetheless, there's still a lot to be excited about. We still have Brandon Roy, Channing Frye and LaMarcus Aldridge And they spent all last season proving that they didn't need no stinkin' Oden. This game is a sure sellout, so go on StubHub, hit up a scalper, mug a season ticket holder, do what you have to do—just make sure you get to the Rose Garden.

Portland Walking Tours: Beyond Bizarre

Portland Walking Tours is still the best way around to learn about our fair city. We are often amazed that more Portlanders don't opt in for the experience. Heck, we sort of love it when friends come into town so that we have a chance to do them again. One of our favorites, the Beyond Bizarre tour takes you through the best of Portland's paranormal. The 10pm tour is the most fun for all you thrill seekers (geared for 21 and over only). That tour sells out fast (at last check only Sunday was available) so book it now.

DoveLewis Wet Nose Soirée

This Saturday at the Governor Hotel help celebrate DoveLewis' 35th birthday at their annual masquerade gala. The Wet Nose Soirée is DoveLewis’ largest annual event where guests can honor the two and four-legged creatures we all adore while kicking up their heels and having a darn good time. The event features a hosted reception with a signature cocktail, silent and live auctions, a formal dinner, Dove Awards and live entertainment. Honestly, we wish there were more masquerade balls (see costuming obsession above). And this one is made all the more fun because if you get tired of hanging out with other partygoers, you can visit with some of their therapy dogs instead! Don’t miss this unique event, packed with Portland’s premiere animal lovers.

Weekend Hotlist

2008-10-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

Portland Center Stage opens R. Buckminster Fuller: THE HISTORY (and Mystery) OF THE UNIVERSE. Get the story behind the story by attending a (free) conversation with Allegra Fuller Synder (his daughter) and DW Jacobs (director/playwright) on Saturday, October 18 at 2pm. Says Snyder of her father, "One of the most vivid images I have of my father are his fingertips. I can see him sitting, with his eyes closed, searching deeply into his mind/experience, with his fingertips barely tapping together, or his hands reaching out in one of those broad and animated gestures so common in later years when he lectured. His fingertips were exploring the universe around him. His fingertips were his antennas to experience." Go HERE.

W. (The Oliver Stone movie about Georgie) opens this weekend. Feel free to watch and laugh/cry/groan as Josh Brolin does his best take (and a fairly accurate one at that) on the current president. It's hard not to picture this movie being a jab (especially given the timing of the release) but Stone is adamant that the film is not intended to be a jab. He's shown restraint, but has admitted in no uncertain terms that the man lends himself to parody. See for yourself.

Pink Widower, Plants & The Winebirds featuring Portland Cello Project in a fundraiser for Obama at The Someday Lounge on Friday, October 17. Tickets are $7 at the door and (according to Someday, "the purpose of this fundraiser then, "The Obama Battleground Booster" is to raise resources for The Democratic party in one of the important battleground states, in this instance, the highly contested state of Ohio" Come and show your support while taking in some good tunes.

Portland Open Studios. If you’ve ever marveled at a painting and wondered how it came to be or sat wide-eyed watching Bob Ross paint, “happy little trees,” then you will love Portland Open Studios. For one final weekend, a number of Portland’s hottest artists will open their doors to the public. Offering a chance to “go behind the scenes to see where, how, and why art is made in an up close and personal view.” The self-directed tour ($15) includes two tickets, maps, pictures of all artists' work (in a beautiful 2009 calendar format). This weekend will focus on eastside artists like Sam Roloff, Don Jacobson and Nicky Falkenhayn. If you don’t want to drive, you can hitch a ride with other art lovers on EcoShuttle (ecoshuttle.net) whose carbon-neutral tour vans are powered with biodiesel. Tour vans will make different pre-scheduled stops each day of the event and you can sign up for one day or both. For more information, visit portlandopenstudios.com.

Pizzazz! The annual Merc-sponsored talent show kicks off tonight. Think it's just a lighthearted show of spoon players and crunk dancers? Think again. With a grand prize of $1000 it's bound to get as fierce as an America's Next Top Model "Go See" (only with less whining). The show starts at 8pm and tickets are $8 to $12. Check out the musical (and dance) stylings of Della May and the Apocalypse Unicorn from last year's event.

Upcoming Events

2008-10-15T13:07:00.002-07:00

ON STAGE:

R. Buckminster Fuller: THE HISTORY (and Mystery) OF THE UNIVERSE at Portland Center Stage. From now through December 7 catch this "one-man show that blends videos, lectures, poetry and a healthy dash of humanist humor." Based on the life of one of the greatest thinkers of our time (If you've ever read about him, you'll understand why so many folks say that he should have been from Portland). On Saturday, October 18 you (and a team of friends) can even take party in a "Bucky" themed photo scavenger hunt. Be among the first 20 to submit and you could win tickets to the show (for your whole team) and dinner in the pearl. The details are here.

The Receptionist at CoHo Productions. Opening this weekend (with 2-for-1 tickets), The Receptionist is the latest production from Adam Brock who brought us PCS's award-winning show Thugs (2007). The show is directed by Rose Riordan and features Sharonlee McLean, Laura Faye Smith, Chris Murray and Gary Norman in a "post 9/11 noir comedy with "equal moments of subdued terror."

Delirious -- An IFCC Homecoming. Join hosts Mayor-Elect Sam Adams, Comissioner Charles Jordan, Michelle Harper and Susan Fartheree-Goodson for Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center's 25th Anniversary. There will be live music from Crazy 8's, Sneakin' Out, Melao De Cuba and dancers from Hurricane Tumbo. Also featured is a comedy performance by "Bruce" (a.k.a. Jennifer Lanier, a homecoming court, Back to the Future photo booth, and an 80s-themed costume contest. Food will be provided by DiPrima Dolci, E'Njoni, Huber's and Kinta. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 at the door.

Encores: The Best of Bodyvox. The innovative dance company celebrates 10 years by bringing back some old favorites. Their performance (from October 22 to October 25 at PCPA) is a fan-fed playlist determined by online vote. Known for their "breathtakingly physical and highly original" work, Bodyvox is sure to put on a phenomenal show. Just check them out on YouTube if you don't believe me. Tickets are $12 to $46.

Pterodactyls at Theatre Vertigo. Vertigo kicks of its 11th season with Nicky Silver's dark, dark comedy about "hypochondria, denial, terminal illness and incest...just to name a few [elements]" Says The New York Post of the script, "There are times-not all that many, admittedly-when a critic wishes he had never used the word 'brilliant' before, so he could offer it fresh minded and glittering to something new." The show runs October 24 through November 22 and tickets can be purchased from theatrevertigo.org

ON SCREEN

Haunters. Just in time for Halloween, on Friday, October 24 at 10pm, The Someday Lounge presents a free special screening of Haunters, a full-length documentary "about haunted attractions and the strange community that surrounds them. " According to imdb.com, "Every October, numerous men and women called 'haunters' drop their normal lives to create sometimes elaborate, always entertaining haunted house events. For some, it starts when they are kids. Others do it for the money. But almost all "haunters" do it out of a passion for Halloween and the desire to make you scream."

Nosferatu at McMenamin's Mission Theater. At 8:30pm on Halloween night (Friday, October 31) Mission will present a screening of F.W. Murnau's horror classic, "Nosferatu" accompanied by a Piazolla -inspired neo-tango ensemble performing an original score. Also on the docket for the evening are two short films by Georges Melies, "Voyage to the Moon" and "The Golden Bug." Tickets are $6 and can be purchased at Mission Street, Crystal Ballroom and Ticketmaster outlets.

100 Feet at Bagdad Theater. On Thursday, October 30, McMenamin's Bagdad Theater presents a one-night-only screening of the ghost-horror flick starring Famke Janssen, Ed Westwick and 80s idol Michael Pare (of Eddie and the Cruisers fame). Pare and director Eric Reid will also attend the event. Tickets are $5 at the door.

ON THE PAGE

Second Annual Artists Night Out at ART. On Monday, October 20, writers of all sorts will gather on Artists Repertory Theatre's Morrison Stage for their second annual spoken word extravaganza. Doors open at 6pm for sign-ups. The reading will start at 6:30pm. The event will be hosted by Tommy Gaffney, author of Three Beers from Oblivion and These Whiskey Days. Featured readers include local literary legend Elizabeth Archers, editor and photographer of the new book Blown Out, and Todd Van Voris, local actor, writer and member of Artists Rep's resident acting company. This event is free and there will be drinks and treats as well as a photography display by Paul Thacker and local books on sale.

David Sedaris at Arlene Schnitzer. On Halloween night, spend your time with acclaimed-author and satirist David Sedaris (who wrote the runaway hits Naked, Me Talk Pretty Someday, Holidays on Ice, and more). Tickets are $30 to $60 and can be purchased from the PCPA box office or Ticketmaster.

Sarah Vowell at Bagdad Theater. Powell's brings one of the smartest, snarkiest writers of our time to Portland to celebrate the release of her new book, The Wordy Shipmates. Vowell (best known her contributions NPR's This American Life and for her sassy historical read Assasination Vacation). Tickets are $25 and include a copy of Vowell's new book.

Madeline Albright at Bagdad Theater. In Albright's new book, Memo to the President Elect, she offers "a persuasive, wide-ranging set of recommendations to the next president by drawing on her extensive experience as an adviser to two presidents and a key figure in four presidential transitions." Tickets are $15 (available from Powell's) and include a copy of the book.

ON THE WALL

sm{art} at Worksound Gallery. Anyone remember Judy Chicago's controversial and "convention-shattering" work "The Dinner Party" which featured an elegantly appointed table set with artist-themed plates in the shape of the female genitalia? Bitch Magazine remembers and they have asked her to be the honorary chair of their annual art auction and reception to benefit the non-profit publication/media organization. On hand for the night will be food from Montage, Rocket, Saint Cupcake and Sugar Beets; drinks from Porches, Lagunitas and New Deal Distillery; art from all walks (including some from Chicago herself), crafts, tarot readings and more. VIP tickets are $75 dollars (including a goodie bag and early bidding) other tickets are $15 for students and a sliding scale ($20 to $50) for all others.

"Dreams" at Launchpad Gallery. All month long, Launchpad "invites you to delve deep into the subconscious and the private worlds of sleep, hope and the darker corners of the mind" with their sixth open-call themed group show. With work from more than 100 artists, there's a lot to take in. According to gallery director Ben Pink, "The dream that we...have for this show is to encourage creativity, provoke thought and share great art with the world." Check it out before October 31 and find out what really happened to a "dream deferred."

IN YOUR MOUTH

Nicky's 8th Annual Wild About Game Festival at The Resort at the Mountain. Got meat? Love good game? Check out the game festival at the Resort at the Mountain in Welches, Oregon on Sunday, October 19th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This annual event pairs some of the Pacific Northwest’s best game chefs with a variety of game birds and meats like Cervena Venison, Nicky Farms Rabbit, Muscovy Hen and MacFarlane Pheasant for a lively cooking competition and cooking demonstrations. Tickets are $25 for the day and $40 including the evening feast.

Farm to Table Wine Dinner with Ivy Manning. Acclaimed food writer, Manning has just released her Farm to Table Cookbook, which is focused on the art of eating locally. On Saturday, October 18, she’ll be practicing that art when she jumps into the cork kitchen to prepare a meal from the book (which will be paired, of course, with Northwest wines). Reservations are required and seating is limited, so call now to reserve (281-2675). Tickets are $75 per person and include dinner, wine and gratuity.

Our Third Birthday

2008-10-15T10:49:00.001-07:00

Well, it's hard to believe, but it's our third birthday! After 3 years (and 37 issues) it feels good to still be around. Honestly, I had my concerns. I was worried that by now, we might have run out of things to say. I was worried despite how long we've been around that when people ask me, "What do you do?" they would still reply, "PDX Magazine" Never heard of it." or (my favorite) "Is that a magazine about the airport?"
But here we are, three years in and, I have to say, things are going pretty well. In fact, we're so excited, we're throwing ourselves a party and you're invited.
Please join us on October 22 beginning at 7pm as we commemorate the occasion at the Star Theater (13 NW 6th Avenue). We'll have music, food, champagne, cocktails and espresso as well as some treats from Cupcake Jones!
If you'd like to get on the VIP list, email us at pdxmagazine@gmail.com before Monday, October 19.

Port in a Storm

2008-10-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

By Hollyanna McCollom

Picture this: You’ve just finished a nice meal; maybe you even had a Manhattan or a glass of wine. As you soak in the ambiance of the candlelit dining room, the server comes around with the dessert menu and asks, “Can I bring you something to drink with that?” If you’re the sort of person who always orders coffee in this situation, it’s time you explored the world of port.

Steeped in history and tradition, the process of creating port dates back to the 17th century when wine supplies to Britain were cut off by frequent wars in France. During that time, the British took a liking to the full-bodied wines produced in the Douro valley of Portugal, which, unfortunately, did not often make the trip without beginning to turn. To combat the problem, they began “fortifying” the wine with brandy, which stopped the fermentation process and allowed for safer (i.e. more lengthy) travel. To the delight of the winemakers, the resulting wine was surprisingly rich and more complex.

The different varieties of port are dependant upon many things, not the least of which include the harvest and the fermentation process. The youngest of these is a ruby port, which is readily available and reasonably priced in both stores and restaurants. As El Gaucho (319 SW Broadway, 227-8794, elgaucho.com) Wine and Cigar Captain Leann Loveland says, “It’s the white zinfandel of the port world in my opinion. It’s a good place to start.” A ruby will age in wood barrels for approximately two to three years before being bottled, resulting in a bright red or garnet blend that is vibrant and fruity. A good one to try is Warre’s Ruby Porto Warrior (about $15).

One of the most popular types of port is a tawny, which derives its name from the golden brown color it develops while aging in wood barrels. As a tawny ages it is exposed to more oxygen than its ruby counterpart and the gradual oxidation and evaporation result in a blend that is often described as having nutty, earthy or caramel-like overtones. A 10-year tawny is a fine choice and will only cost you about $10 to $20 a bottle. But like humans, the longer a port has to mature, the more complex and layered it becomes. A 30 or 40-year tawny will be deeper in color and will often pick up other flavors like dried fruit, toasted almonds and toffee. It’s well worth the extra bucks you’ll shell out for a glass as you smoke a cigar or nibble on a good blue cheese. A good low-priced version to try is Warre’s Otima (about $20 per bottle); or, if you want to splurge a little, try Graham’s 40 Year (about $150).

The most sought after is the vintage port, which must have the seal of approval from The Port Wine Institute (IVP) in Portugal before it can be declared. When wine producers feel that they have a particularly good port, they will send samples of it to IVP. If they agree, then IVP awards it with the honor of a “declared vintage.” It’s a coveted distinction since there are only about three declared vintages every 10 years. In fact, since 1901, there have been only 29–some of the most recognized are from 1927, 1934 and 1945. Vintage ports, like rubies, are aged in their bottles and develop a signature claret color. Unlike the younger wines, a vintage port will not be as bright, having had years to mellow, soften and mature.

In years past, children were often given a “pipe” of port (about 61 cases) the year they were born, with the intention that by the time the child was old enough to drink, the wine would have properly matured. Still today, a popular gift for landmark birthdays is a bottle from the year of the recipient’s birth. Pazzo Ristorante (627 SW Washington St, 228-1515, pazzo.com) Wine Director Lemmy Cooper suggests pairing such a wine (like their 2003 Taylor Fladgate Vintage, $20 per glass) with a flourless chocolate cake and raspberry sauce to complement the fruit-forward flavor.
Similar to a tawny, a colheita (pronounced, “col-yate-ah”) is a port from a single harvest (i.e. one year, one region), the date of which is printed on the label. Unlike a vintage port, colheitas are aged in barrels, thus developing a tawny color and characteristic. Less than 1% of all port production results in colheitas, so it’s a rare treat that retails for around $20 to $80 a glass (or $50 to several thousand dollars per bottle). El Gaucho even carries a Porto Kopke 1937 colheita for $185 a glass. Like the vintage port, it is often presented as a gift to someone to commemorate an anniversary year or birthdate.

A Late-Bottled Vintage (LBV), on the other hand, is similar in character and flavor to a vintage port. Indeed, an LBV is also derived from grapes produced in a single harvest. However, an LBV will spend four to six years in wood barrels before it sees the bottle. The resulting wine is full-bodied and rich, a marriage between vintage and tawny. Says Cooper, “I think if someone was getting into port or didn’t know much about it, for an extra five bucks a bottle [as compared to a standard ruby or tawny] it’s a good choice. I’d rather drink these [LBVs].”

Besides being a fine accompaniment to dessert, Port is often paired with cheese, fruit, Fois Gras, paté or even cigars. Says Loveland, “Ports go hand-in-hand with cigars. We see a lot of younger clientele in the cigar room having one with their gin and tonic and maybe they don’t realize how much more they could enjoy their cigar if they paired it with a cognac, a scotch or a port.”
Finding the right style of port for you is not hard if you go to the right place. Most restaurants are happy to offer suggestions based on your preferences and sommeliers are often excited to share their advice. In fact, as Loveland suggests, it’s wise to ask if you can sample a bit before ordering to see what sort of port you prefer. “Most bartenders are happy to pour you a taste to see if it’s what you really want,” she says. You can also call ahead to many oenophile restaurants (i.e. wine heavy) and schedule a tasting or a private session with their sommelier or wine director, like Cooper or Loveland, who are not only fountains of knowledge, but a lot of fun to boot.

So, put down the coffee (it will probably just keep you up late anyway) and check out the “other side of the dessert menu.” Because whether you prefer to finish your meal with a Crème Brule or a fine cigar, there is sure to be a port that will enhance your experience.

Editor's Note- October

2008-10-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

The first time I picked up a copy of PDX Magazine (the March 2006 issue, left), I was surprised I hadn’t heard of it. The glossy photos, the super-handy happy hour guide and the subject matter (tattoos, fashion and late night dining) seemed right up my alley.

Of course, I hadn’t heard of the magazine because at that time it was only six months old. It was only two days later that I saw their ad for an editorial intern.

Things have changed a lot since then. We have seen many of our co-workers move on to other things. We’ve seen the readership grow more numerous and more diverse. We’ve seen the pages inside the magazine change a lot, too, thanks to the remarkable work of our Art Director, Joel Masters (who has, by the way, been here since the magazine’s debut). When I see how far we’ve come in such a short time, frankly, I’m pretty proud to be a part of it. In fact (as we celebrate our third birthday) I am positively brimming with pride.

It hasn’t always been easy, of course. Times are tough for publications whether they are The New York Times or a little start up like us. Like anyone else, we’ve hit a few roadblocks (like the month we had to pack up our 40,000 magazines in trucks and deliver them ourselves!) but, in spite of it all, we are still going strong.

For me, I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude (and food, booze, prizes, money, etc) to my two assistant editors, Nathan Peasley and Jeremy Lloyd. There’s simply not enough that I can say about those guys and their ability to get the job done while still making me laugh. It’s pretty remarkable to get through a particularly grueling press cycle and still want to hang out with anyone from the office, but these guys are just that cool. And when the proverbial you-know-what hits the fan, they are just the sort of guys you want backing you up.

As we move forward, I am excited about the changes we have in store. Never the sort of publication to rest on our laurels, we approached this advent with more of a question of “what’s next?” than a sense of self-congratulatory relief. To be honest, I expected the latter. I have heard apocryphal tales of magazines surviving after three years, as if that were some magical threshold that had to be crossed.

Around here, though, we are simply glad to be around and glad to have the opportunity to express our creativity and share the things that we love about this city. Frankly, when it comes to creating a “where to go, what to do” magazine, there’s not a better city to be in.

Secret Garden

2008-10-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

I am, admittedly, not much of a traveler. So, when faced with the opportunity to spend several days discovering the island of Kauai, I was excited, but dubious. The island is merely 552 square miles (the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands) and yet, only three percent of that is zoned for commercial and residential use. The other 97 percent (packed with canyons, rivers, beaches, trails and mountains) is lush, green and beautiful—a landscape ripe for exploration and adventure... read full article

Neighborhood Profile: 28th and Burnside

2008-10-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

Bisecting Burnside and straddling North and Southeast, the small strip of 28th from Stark to Glisan has a lot to offer. This little hood, anchored by the historic Laurelhurst Theater and book-ended by Masu and Pambiche, is home to some of our favorite restaurants, watering holes, shopping, primping and pampering activities, all in a very digestible serving. That said, let’s slurp a few lovin’ spoonfuls of what this lip smackin’ locale has to offer... read full article

Live on Stage

2008-09-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

By Katie Mitchell | Photo by Rozarii Lynch, courtesy of Portland Opera

That cool breeze and clouds overhead may signal the end of yet another summer, but if there’s one thing to look forward to this fall, it’s the exciting line-up of performances scheduled for Portland’s stages this season.

Fred Meyer Broadway Across America kicks off their season with 2007 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical Spring Awakening (Oct 21–26), a rock-musical which documents the trials and tribulations of German teens in the late nineteenth century. Later in the season, catch The Color Purple (Dec 30-Jan 4). Presented by Oprah Winfrey herself and based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Color Purple uses jazz, gospel and blues to tell the story of one woman’s journey to find herself. Rounding out Broadway Across America’s season are Movin’ Out (Jan 16–18), Wicked (Mar 4–Apr 5), Grease (April 21–26) and Rent (June 9–14). Visit portlandopera.org to learn more.

Portland Center Stage, which is bringing back its popular 30 and under discount, also has lots of musicals in its lineup. The season begins with quintessential American musical Guys and Dolls (Sept 23–Oct 6) followed by the world premiere of Storm Large’s autobiographical musical Crazy Enough (Mar 31–June 7) which documents her life in rock and roll, Hollywood, and on the small screen as a reality TV veteran. Capping of the season is Grey Gardens (May 26–June 21), a musical about Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ eccentric relatives Edith Bouvier Beal and her daughter “Little Edie.” For ticketing information, go to pcs.org.

If the old song and dance isn’t quite your thing, there’s plenty of drama to go around as well. Portland Center Stage offers a number interesting plays including the American premiere of Fin Kennedy’s How to Disappear Completely and Never Be Found (Jan 27–Mar 22), Oscar Wilde’s classic The Importance of Being Earnest (Feb 24–March 22), and Frost/Nixon (Apr 14–May 10, an examination of Nixon’s last hours of presidency. PCS has also included some inventive productions this season including R. Buckminster Fuller: The History (and Mystery) of the Universe (Sept 23–Oct 6), a one man show that takes the audience inside the mind of one of the leading scientists and philosophers of the 20th century. Later in the season, the New Year brings the world premiere of Nancy Keystone’s Apollo (Jan 13–Feb 8), a multi-media production that explores such events as the dawn of the U.S. space program and the Civil Rights Movement.

The Artists Repertory Theatre has some heavy hitters as well. The season begins with Blackbird (Sept 2-Oct 12), winner of the 2007 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Play in London and hearded as “a new take on Lolita.” Also making an appearance this season is Sarah Ruhl’s Eurydice (Sept 16–Oct 26), Stephen Karam’s Speech and Debate (Oct 15–Nov 23), Irish Playwright Conor McPherson’s The Seafarer (Jan 6–Feb 15), and Three Sisters (May 5–June 14), Tracy Letts’ adaptation from the original Russian play by Anton Chekhov. Go to artistsrep.org to find out more.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary season, Miracle Theatre Group has a spectacular selection of original and bilingual works. The season begins with Dos Pueblos (Sept 19–Oct 4), a collaboration with Hand2Mouth Theatre of Portland and La Comedia Humana of Mexico City which explores the overlapping cultural histories of Mexico and the US. Also coming to the stage are the bilingual productions of La Carpa Del Maestro: El Dia De Los Muertos Festival (Oct 24–Nov 9) and El Último (Jan 9–17), Te Llevo en La Sangre (Jan 30–Feb 21), a Spanish language dark comedy from Argentina, and English language productions of El Grito Del Bronx (Apr 3–25) and The Shrunken Head of Pancho Villa (May 8–30). Visit milagro.org for more information.

Portland Opera presents a number of powerful operas this season starting with Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata (Sept 26–Oct 4). Later in the season, catch Fidelio (Nov 7–15), The Turn of the Screw (Feb 6–14), La Calisto (Mar 13–21), and Rigoletto (May 8–16). Find out more at portlandopera.org.

For all those theatre buffs in the making, Oregon Children’s Theatre and Tears of Joy Theatre have lots of kid-friendly shows in the works. Along with some other great productions, Oregon Children’s Theatre brings Roald Dahl’s beloved book to life with James and the Giant Peach (Nov 1–23). For a new take on an old tale that tots are sure to enjoy, check out Petite Rough: A Cajun Red Riding Hood (Apr 25–May 17). Tears of Joy Theatre celebrates their 35th year of remarkable puppetry with productions of Pinocchio (Nov 9–Dec 1), Petrouchka (Dec 28–30), Anansi the Spider (Jan 26–Feb 10) and Stellaluna (Apr 4–20). Also, don’t miss the 10-years-and-up- appropriate Comedy Sportz Puppetz vs. People (Nov 23–24), a battle of wits between Tears of Joy puppets and ComedySportz actors. Head to octc.org and tojt.com to learn more.

Last, but certainly not least, White Bird and OBT promise some fantastic performances for all you dancin’ fools. White Bird’s busy season includes 12 companies from places like Finland, Israel, Australia and Brazil as well as White Bird Uncaged, a new series that brings four groundbreaking companies to perform throughout the season at adaptable venues around Portland. Oregon Ballet Theatre also has an impressive line-up this season starting with Swan Lake (Oct 11–18) and including Balanchine’s The Nutcracker (Dec 12–24), Lambarena (Feb 21–28), a fusion of Bach and African Dance.

Neighborhood Profile: Distillery Row

2008-09-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

As destination neighborhoods go, the newly dubbed Distillery Row may not be the first to pop into your mind. However, this quiet gem has much to tempt a visit. Getting its name, quite obviously, from the abundance of craft distilleries that call these blocks home (from SE Washington to SE Lincoln and from SE Grand to SE 11th), there is much more to imbibe and enjoy here than just those excellent local liquors. Brewpubs and bars abound, offering up some of P-Town’s favorite pints. In addition, stellar dining spots will hypnotize your palette—and it doesn’t stop there. So lace up your walking shoes. We’re going to cover a lot of ground as we try a taste of all the special spots that “The Row” has in store... read full article

2008 Pearl Sidewalk Sale

2008-08-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

The Pearl District: A shopaholic’s dream come true. Join in the fun at the
4th annual Pearl Sidewalk Sale!

When: August 30th - September 1st

Where: The Pearl District

Why: Fall is coming, and you want to look your best!

Click here for more info

Dazed & Infused by the heat wave?

2008-08-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

Then get out to the local watering holes we’ve featured this month who serve up Portland’s most unique and tasty house infusions! These jalapeno-infused tequilas, pineapple rums, and pepper, vanilla, and watermelon vodkas will have your mouth watering and your belly asking for more. Even better, the August issue features two recipes for you to try infusing at home!

Upcoming Events

2008-08-13T17:44:00.000-07:00

Oregon Zoo Summer Concerts June 15 - August 20

The Wooden Nickel Summer Concerts @ the Oregon Garden July 3 - August 21

4th Annual Great American Distillers Festival @ The Gerding Theater August 23-24

Dog Day of Summer: Dinner with your Dog @ Jake’s Famous Crawfish August 24

Hungry for more Bend?

2008-08-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

Be sure to dive into Part II of our Getaway guide to Bend! PDX has walked, shopped and tasted just about all that this lovely destination has to offer. From culinary delights, such as Magret Duck Breast and Alaskan King Salmon, to refreshing pints straight from the source at Deschutes Brewery - you won’t leave disappointed.
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Read Part II of our guide to Bend.

PDX GOES GREEN!

2008-07-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

If you’re down about the giant leap in gas prices these days, we have something to cheer you up.
PDX Magazine has reduced its carbon footprint
by switching over to a more ‘eco-friendly’ paper!
Not only are we cutting back on costs, but we’re also helping to save the environment, one magazine at a time!
And hey, every step counts!