October 2014 — Memo Calendar

The Memo Calendar is your vehicle to publicize community events. Let your mid-Multnomah County neighbors know about events of interest, meetings, fundraisers and the like. When you send submissions, please include all details that apply: date, start time, finish time, address, admission fee, a brief description of the event, including who it benefits if applicable, and a contact name and phone number or email address. Send a photo if you have one. Please identify each individual from left to right (large group shots can simply be identified by the group name) and provide the name of the photographer so we can give proper credit. Calendar submissions for the November issue are due Wednesday, Oct. 15. For best results, email Darlene Vinson at editor@midcountymemo.com. Or mail your submissions to 3510 N.E. 134th Ave., Portland, OR 97230. To leave a phone message, call 503-287-8904.

ACTIVITIES and CELEBRATIONS

Pumpkins, critters and fortune tellers, oh my
The 3rd annual Prescott Harvest Festival is Saturday, Oct. 4 from noon until 4 p.m. at Prescott Elementary School, 10410 N.E. Prescott St. The community is invited to enjoy live music, train rides, a petting zoo, face painting, bounce house, dunk tank, the pumpkin patch and have fortunes told. Tickets for activities, food and games are $.50 each or three for $1 and will be sold at the gate.

Eclipses and the autumn sky explained
The Mt. Hood Community College Planetarium will reopen its season series on Tuesday, October 7 with “Two Special Eclipses and The Autumn Sky.” October is an unusual month with both a lunar and a partial solar eclipse occurring just two weeks from each other. Learn about the best way to view these events and about the highlights of the autumn sky. Pat Hanrahan, planetarium director will be using the planetarium’s state-of-the-art projection system to guide you around the sky.

The planetarium is located on the Gresham Campus beneath the library at 26000 S.E. Stark St. Show times are 6, 7:15 and 8:30 p.m. Parking on all MHCC campuses is free, no permit required.

Hanrahan presents public shows the first Tuesday of each month (except in January 2015). Visitors are encouraged to ask questions during each 45-minute program. Children are welcome to attend. The planetarium is wheelchair accessible. Admission for the general public is $2 and free for MHCC students and employees (identification is required). Because seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, early arrival is suggested.

WWII Vet leads Veterans Day parade

World War II veteran and Oregon native Brig. Gen. James B. Thayer, Lake Oswego, will be the grand marshal of the annual Ross Hollywood Veterans Day parade Tuesday, Nov. 11. Held in the Hollywood District, Portland’s only Veterans Day parade is marking its 40th year.

Thayer, 92, enlisted in the U.S. Army following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He served in Europe, where he earned both the Bronze and Silver Star awards. In addition to his direct combat feats, his anti-tank mine platoon helped liberate the Gunskirden Lager concentration camp May 4, 1945, saving more than 15,000 Hungarian-Jewish refugees.

“Serving as grand marshal is especially important to me as we near the 70th anniversary of WWII in 2015,” Thayer said. “I want the people of a grateful Oregon to remember those who gave so much.”

In 2012 the Oregon Military Museum at Camp Withycombe, Clackamas, Ore., was renamed in honor of Thayer. The museum is currently conducting a multi-million dollar capital campaign for renovations.

“We are honored to have Brig. General Thayer as our grand marshal,” said Angela McKenzie-Tucker, manager of parade sponsor Ross-Hollywood Chapel. “His lifetime achievements and service symbolize what all citizen soldiers do and have done for our country. I hope everyone comes to the parade to honor all of them and their families.”

The parade begins at 9:45 a.m., Northeast 40th Avenue and Hancock Street and travels east on Northeast Sandy Boulevard to Northeast 48th Avenue, where a memorial flag raising ceremony will be held. Everyone is welcome to attend and can register to march in the parade at veteransdaypdx.org.

 CLASSES and WORKSHOPS

Native American Housing to Homeownership Fair date set
The Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) hosts the 9th Annual Native American Housing to Homeownership Fair Saturday, Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 5135 N.E. Columbia Blvd.

Produced by NAYA, the fair is an opportunity for community members to learn about renting and home-buying best practices, meet representatives of organizations that provide rent and homebuyers’ assistance and guidance and learn about financial wellness, the HUD Section 184 Indian Home Loan program and more. Moreover, the fair is an opportunity to help Native Americans and others establish homes and find affordable and efficient ways to maintain a residence.

Not only are organizers providing lunch but also children’s activities, cultural enrichment and free raffles.

View event details online at http://nayapdx.org/housingfair, or call 503-288-8177.

NAYA is the youth-centered, family-driven and elder-guided cultural hub for American Indian, Alaska Native and First Nations people in Portland. For 40 years, NAYA has been at the heart of the 9th largest urban Indian community in the United States, sustaining tradition and offering a variety of culturally-specific services designed to increase the health, education and assets of our diverse and growing Native American community.

Take weatherization class before winter
Free workshop where participants learn how to stop drafts in their home, especially around doors and windows to save energy and increase comfort are scheduled for the coming weeks:

• Tuesday, Oct. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Oliver SUN School, 15840 S.E. Taylor St.
• Tuesday, Oct. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Alice Ott SUN School, 12500 S.E. Ramona St.
• Tuesday, Oct. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Cherry Blossom Apartments, 10570 S.E. Cherry Blossom Drive

These classes are great for renters too. Qualified participants receive a free kit of weatherization supplies. Register for the workshop at www.communityenergyproject.org or call 503-284-6827 ext. 108.

DIY insulation workshop
This free limited time workshop Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Community Energy Project, 422 N.E. Alberta St., teaches participants how to weatherize a flat attic. Topics covered include safety, air sealing, baffling, blown-in insulation, and incentives to help cover the cost of your project. Learn more and register for the workshop at www.communityenergyproject.org or call 503-284-6827 ext. 106.

Identify ’shrooms in the garden
Join instructor Gradey Proctor for an exploration of the world of fungi Sunday, Oct. 19 from noon to 4 p.m. at Leach Botanical Garden, 6704 S.E. 122nd Ave. Begin with some basic mushroom anatomy and move on to some of the major mushroom genera in our region. Students will stroll through Leach Botanical Garden to see what is showing and how they live. Come away with some useful identification tips, harvesting and cooking advice and much more.

This class is for a maximum of 15 adult students. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $25 per person. To register go to www.leachgarden.org or call 503-823-1671.

 REUNIONS

PHS class of 1969
The Parkrose High class of 1969 sort of regular Second Wednesday gathering is Wednesday, Oct. 8 at Bridge City Taproom, 620 S.E. 122nd Ave., beginning at 4 p.m. for happy hour food and drink. This will be a reunion with some of the Refectory crew as well as the owners and much of the staff of Bridge City are former Refectory employees.

 FUNDRAISERS

Turn cans and bottles into money
Saturday, Oct. 4 is can and bottle day at Parkrose High, 12003 N.E. Shaver St. Parkrose Boosters will collect your refundables from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They’ll turn them in for cash for activities for students.

Help and hope for women and children
High-profile suicides and shootings prompt conversations about the increased need for mental health care, but so many have trouble accessing it, especially if lower-income or uninsured. Even those with insurance sometimes struggle with huge deductibles, putting vitally needed care out of reach. A passionate group of women is working to change that, making sure than any woman or child who needs mental health care gets it, no matter what the financial circumstances. With money raised at the Circle of Strength women’s fundraising brunch Saturday, Oct. 11, hundreds of lower-income women and children in the greater Portland metro areas will get help at The Northwest Catholic Counseling Center. The nonprofit has provided counseling and psychiatric medication management to all regardless of faith or finances for 28 years.

This is the 13th year for this popular event. Held at the Riverside Golf and Country Club, 8105 N.E. 33rd Dr,, from 10 a.m. to noon, the Circle of Strength brings more than 220 women together for food, fun, and fundraising. Tickets are $35 and tables of eight are $250. Call 503-253-0964 or buy tickets online at www.nwcounseling.org. Donations to NCC are tax-deductible. Last year’s event raised nearly $85,000.

The Circle of Strength highlights the shortage of professional, affordable counseling in our area. By sharing the stories of low-income women and children helped at NCC, the event promotes understanding about the barriers to care created by poverty and the life-changing help provided by accessible mental health services.

Luncheon benefits Human Solutions
Human Solutions’ annual “It’s on The House” luncheon will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Benson Hotel, 309 S.W. Broadway. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon is free, but pre-registration is required. The event will raise funds for and increase awareness of Human Solutions’ programs and services for low-income and homeless families in outer east Portland and east Multnomah counties.

This year’s keynote speaker is Keith Thomajan, president and CEO of the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. Thomajan will speak about United Way’s three-year plan to break the cycle of childhood poverty in Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark counties. Human Solutions is one of United Way’s 30 “Community Strengthening” partners. The 30 agencies form a cohort that will participate in learning communities designed to share experiences, exchange data and information, and build collective knowledge around new and promising practices to improve outcomes for low-income families and their children. Thomajan joined United Way in 2012, after serving as President and CEO of Camp Fire Columbia for 10 years. Prior to that, he was with Pacific Crest Outward Bound.

For more information on the luncheon, please contact Sara Fisher at 503-548-0283 or sfisher@humansolutions.org. To register, visit humansolutions.org.

Think pink
Support breast cancer research with Parkrose High choirs on Think Pink night, Wednesday, Oct. 22, beginning at 7 p.m. The concert is free; however, PHS Associated Student Body leaders will accept your donations in support of breast cancer research.

Eat a stack of pancakes
Savor pancakes, ham, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy along with coffee or juice in support of Meals on Wheels People Cherry Blossom Center Saturday, Oct. 25, from 8 to 11 a.m. at 740 S.E. 106th Ave. Bid on gift baskets too.

Breakfast is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under. To learn more, contact Robin Gao, center manager, at 503-953-8104.

Empowering indigenous leadership
The Native American Youth and Family Center gala is Friday, Nov. 14, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Portland Art Museum, 1219 S.W. Park Ave. This is Oregon’s largest celebration of Native American Heritage Month. The Gala, an intimate gathering of nearly 600 of NAYA’s closest friends, is an opportunity to enjoy Native American cuisine, traditional dance performances, native songs and drumming, and beautiful indigenous art up for bid in our live and silent auction.

Find a link to tickets at nayapdx.org.

Making music happen
A flock of pink flamingos delivered to that special someone to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or milestone will support Parkrose High choir students.Parkrose choirs will sell Christmas wreaths and swags again this year as well and the annual fundraising concert with Michael Allen Harrison is Sunday, Nov. 30 at 2 p.m.

To flock someone, or to learn more about wreath sales and the Back Home concert, contact Choir Director Lesley Bossert at 503-408-2695.

 MEETINGS and CLUBS

2035 Comprehensive Plan Draft hearing date set
The public is invited to share what they think of development in their neighborhoods and their comments about the 2035 Comprehensive Plan Proposed Draft in person with planners at four upcoming public hearings hosted by the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability Commission.

The second hearing is at Parkrose High School Community Center, 12003 N.E. Shaver St. Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 5 to 9 p.m.

According to bureau planners, Portland’s new long-range plan for growth and development was created over several years, based on research and analysis, as well as community and business input and interagency collaboration.

The result of their work, according to planners, is a new comprehensive plan that carries forward the best of the old one, infused with new ways of thinking about public health and equity, designing with nature and the environment, job growth and prosperity, infrastructure and public services, climate change and resilience, all of which are thoroughly grounded in preserving neighborhood character and the transit-oriented development.

Who thought 30 years ago when mid-Multnomah County was annexed by the city—rebranding it “East Portland” with the grammatically incorrect capital ‘E’, ironically emphasizing the decades of unequal treatment those neighborhoods were about to receive from their new governors—it would transform from a suburban, bucolic area of large lots, old growth trees and mostly white population into today’s suburban plantation for the poor?

Because of the same sorts of long-range planning and zoning changes, and the documented inequitable distribution of low-income, high-density infill housing, ‘East Portland’ is better known for its socio-economic disparities, crime, city neglect, inadequate infrastructure and as one of the few places in Portland where both legal and illegal immigrants can afford to live.

After whiffing decades ago, what do city planners envision for their ‘East Portland’ of the future? “New development in Eastern neighborhoods should enhance the area’s distinctive mix of building types, improve connectivity and integrate natural features, like buttes, streams and large native trees. The area could benefit from stronger neighborhood business districts, improved pedestrian and transit access and improved parks,” according to the 2035 Comprehensive Plan Proposed Draft update published July 2014.

The Planning and Sustainability Commission, which will eventually make a recommendation to the Portland City Council for adoption, is now considering all feedback on the proposed draft. An online Map App allows the public to view their property and/or neighborhood and comment on the proposed land use changes.

If you can’t make the hearing, you can provide testimony online via the Map App, www.portlandoregon.gov/bps/mapapp, email comments about the plan to psc@portlandoregon.gov, with ‘Comprehensive Plan Testimony’ in the subject line, and include your name and mailing address, or send a letter with comments to Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, 1900 S.W. 4th Ave. Port., OR 97201-5380.

Your observations may be valuable to science
The Flower Lane Garden Club meets Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. at East Portland Community Center, 740 S.E. 106th Ave. Sally Fisher, a sustainability spet with Clark County Environmental Services will address ways that gardeners can assist scientists with their research. Counting bees, tracking storms and measuring snowfall can provide helpful data. To learn more, contact Donna Gamble at 503-284-1553.

Mix up a stone planter for your garden
Villa Garden Club meets Thursday, Oct. 23, at 10:30 a.m. at Savage Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1740 S. E. 139th Ave. Club members Geri Grieve and Judy Jewell will team up to show you to make hypertufa troughs and leaf castings.

Bring a lunch. Coffee and dessert is provided. Call Velda Altig at 503-252-7423 for more information.

 BAZAARS and CRAFT FAIRS

Parkrose Community United Church of Christ
Browse the annual Parkrose Community United Church of Christ Rummage Sale Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3 and 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 12505 N.E. Halsey St. for fantastic deals on clothing, furniture, household items, shoes, books, toys, games, home decor, and more. You will be amazed at how low the prices are at this event. For more information, please visit www.parkroseucc.org or call 503-253-5457.

SnowCap Community Charities
The 6th annual My Friends and More benefit bazaar for SnowCap is Friday, Oct. 17 from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1700 N.E. 132nd Ave. Browse four rooms of local craftspeople displaying jewelry, baby gifts, candles and much more. Snacks and luncheon items will be available.

 Parkview Christian Retirement Community
The fall Craft Fair at Parkview Christian Retirement Community, 1825 N.E. 108th Ave., is Friday and Saturday, Oct. 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Residents will offer baked goods, original photography and artwork along with a wide selection of handcrafted items.

Crossroads Church
Find more than 30 tables of handcrafted aprons, scarves, ornaments, wooden games, jewelry, needlecraft gifts, decorations, baby items and more at the annual Crossroads Christmas Bazaar, 2505 N.E. 102nd Ave., Friday and Saturday, Oct. 31 and Sunday Nov. 1 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

St. Therese Parish
The 33rd annual St. Therese Holiday Bazaar is Friday, Nov. 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Northeast 132nd Avenue and Halsey Street. Enjoy the talents of many craftspeople as well as traditional baked goods, a used books corner and wonderful raffle items. A café will also be open.

David Douglas High
The 18th annual David Douglas Holiday Bazaar is Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1001 S.E. 135th Ave. Funds raised support the PTSA college scholarship fund.Organizers invite vendors to request an application now at ddbazaar@yahoo.com. Fee space is $35. Registrations are assigned first come, first served. The registration form and payment are due by Nov. 20.

 GIVING BACK

Deliver hot meals to home bound
Meals on Wheels People are looking for volunteer drivers to deliver hot meals to home bound seniors in east Portland neighborhoods. The meals go out from the Cherry Blossom center located inside East Portland Community Center, 740 S.E. 106th Ave. Volunteer opportunities are also available in the kitchen helping to prepare and serve meals to seniors. Shifts are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up to help daily, weekly, monthly or to be available as a sub. Contact Robin Gao, center manager, at 503-953-8104 or visit mealsonwheelspeople.org/what-we-do/dining-centers/cherry-blossom-center/.

 THE ARTS

Kids drawing nature
Children from nine to 14 are invited to sign up for a nature illustration series at Leach Botanical Garden, 6704 S.E. 122nd Ave., Saturdays in October from 9:30 to 11:30 am.
During this four-part series, participants will learn to look and really see how flowers, leaves, branches and other parts of Mother Nature are con¬structed. Then they will create a detailed botanical drawing from life, using pencil, fine-point drawing pens and any other preferred media on paper to create a frameable piece of art. This class is suitable for all art skill levels. Supplies are included. Pre-registration required and the class is limited to eight students. $55 non-member registration fee for the series. To register, visit www.leachgarden.org or call 503-823-1671.

 Parkrose landscaper teaches collage
John Halvorson is a retired landscape contractor. His paintings reflect the American landscape and seascapes in the traditional as well as abstract and contemporary styles. Halvorson is the guest instructor at Portland Fine Arts Guild classes this month.
Classes are Mondays, Oct. 6, 13 and 20 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Russellville Grange Hall, 12105 N.E. Prescott St.
Participants will learn all about collage, including the art of using papers with a creative flare. You will be shown the techniques and types of collage works. Mediums are papers, acrylic, watercolors, crayons, pencils etc. Each class session is $12 for guild members and $15 for non-members.
Visit http://oregonlive.adpay.com/clicknbuy.aspx?p=2016&adid=ORE12784119 for a list of supplies.

EDUCATION

Small classrooms enhance learning
Trinity Lutheran School, 5520 N.E. Killingsworth St., was founded 124 years ago. The public is invited to tour the school at an open house, Thursday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
The TLS Open House is a great way for students and their families to meet this community steeped in Christian education history during a regular class day. The TLS hosts will guide visiting parents and students through small class rooms to observe teachers and students at work.
Principal Joy Mueller and parent volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. Information on admissions and financial assistance will also be available.
Students may enroll at TLS at any time during the year. Now is a great time to consider the options that TLS can provide your student and your family, whether it is for immediate enrollment or for next year.
TLS is a nationally accredited through the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod – National Lutheran School Accreditation and Advance Ed.
To learn more about the open house or enrollment, contact TLS at 503-288-6403 or office2@TrinityPortland.org.

ABC’s for the little ones
School is back in session, but it is not too late to enroll your child in the Gethsemane Lutheran Church play-based preschool. Your child must have turned three or four years old by Sept. 1. Gethsemane Lutheran is at 11560 S.E. Market St. Tours are available. Call 503-256-1835 for an appointment.

 SENIOR RESOURCES

Fall colors and pumpkins can be yours on this hike
Join the Gresham Senior Hiking Outdoor Group for a Sauvie Island, Wapato State Park Hike Thursday, Oct. 16 for a 2.5-mile level walk around a lake with views of the Multnomah Channel. Bird watching and fall colors will add to the adventure and a stop at a local pumpkin farm will get you in the mood for jack o lanterns.
Pack a lunch, dress for the weather and wear boots suitable for marshy conditions. Bring money for the farm stand.
Departs Ambleside Center, 600 N.E. 8th Ave. in Gresham at 9:30 a.m. A $6 per-person donation will be accepted for car pool drivers.

LIBRARIES

Enhance your library at fall used book sale
Oregon’s largest used book sale, organized by the Friends of the Multnomah County Library (FOL), takes places the weekend of Oct. 24 through 27 at the DoubleTree Hotel Exhibit Hall at Lloyd Center, 1000 N.E. Multnomah St.
FOL advocate for and support our outstanding public library district by funding programs and services and sponsoring activities which bring together people who value libraries. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Multnomah County Library.
Kicking things off is a Members-Only Night Friday, Oct. 24, from 6 to 9 p.m. Annual memberships can be purchased at any time, including at the door Friday night, for as low as $10 for individuals or $15 for families. Admission is free to the public Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday, Oct. 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. when all items will be discounted by 50 percent.
The Friends Fall Used Book Sale will have 100,000 items at great prices. Hardcover and quality trade paperbacks start at $2, mass market paperbacks and children’s books at 50 cents, CDs at $2, and DVDs at $3. Also available are audio books, LPs, videos, pamphlets, sheet music, and maps- all sorted and in good condition.
No electronic devices to check prices will be allowed during Friday’s Members-Only Night. Phones, scanners and other devices will be allowed Saturday through Monday for checking individual items. Items may not be set aside to be scanned later.
The ever popular Collector’s Corner is back. These special and rarer books and ephemera are culled from the Friends’ online store and will be available for purchase Friday and Saturday only.

Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Ave., 503-988-5392
Space at programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, except as noted.

Book Babies: Storytime for children from birth to 12 months with adult. Mondays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Tiny Tots: Storytime for children 12 to 24 months with adult. Tuesdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Toddler Storytime: Storytime for children 24 to 36 months with adult. Fridays from 10:15 to 11 a.m. and from 11:30 a.m. to noon.

Preschool Storytime: Storytime for children 3 to 6 years with adult. Mondays from 10:15 to 11 a.m. and Tuesdays from 11:15 a.m. to noon.

Family Storytime: Storytime for children newborn to 6 years with adult. Thursdays from 6 to 6:45 p.m. and Sundays from 3 to 3:45 p.m.

Black Storytime: The African and African American experience comes alive for children from birth to age 6 (with a favorite adult and other family members). Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to noon.

Chinese Storytime: Storytime presented in Cantonese for children ages newborn to 6 years with adult. Saturdays from 2 to 2:45 p.m.

Vietnamese Storytime: Storytime presented in Vietnamese for children ages newborn to 6 years with adult. Sundays from 1 to 1:45 p.m.

Russian Storytime: Storytime presented in Russian for children ages newborn to 6 years with adult. Tuesdays from 6 to 6:45 p.m.

Yarn Club: Whether your interest is knitting or crocheting, come join the fun and learn together. All experience levels and ages welcome. Please bring your own supplies. Thursdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

A Conversation with Angela Johnson: More than 40 books later, Angela Johnson is not only a writer, but an award-winning author who is hailed as a leading voice. From moving picture books that celebrate African American families, history and relationships to stirring young adult novels, Johnson’s stories touch readers in ways that endure. Please come as Johnson shares stories from her books, followed by a book signing. Friday, Oct. 17 from 3:30 to 4 p.m.

Teen Council: Meet new friends, learn new skills, help the library, eat snacks and have fun. Teen Council members work with library staff to make the library teen-friendly. Wednesdays, Oct. 1 and 15 from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Read to the Dogs: Improve your reading skills by reading aloud to a therapy dog from Pet Partners. Registration is required; call 503-988-5392. Saturdays, Oct. 11 and 25 from noon to 2 p.m.

Going Batty: Explore the intriguing world of bats and learn the truth about one of the most misunderstood and beneficial creatures on earth. Learn about bat diversity, echolocation and diet. Practice using a mist nest, the tool field biologists use to capture and study live bats before releasing them back into the night sky. Topics include adaptations, bat biology and physics of sound. Tuesday, Oct. 28 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“Black Girl in Suburbia” Film Screening: “Black Girl in Suburbia” is a locally made, feature documentary by Melissa Lowery that looks into the experiences of African American girls growing up in predominately white communities. This is a different look into suburbia from the perspective of women of color. “Black Girl in Suburbia” intends to spark an open dialogue about race, identity and perspective among all people in the hopes that these discussions will allow us to look at perceptions of ourselves, others and the community we live in as a whole. For teens in grades 6 through 12. Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Language Exchange: Engage in conversation with native English speakers who want to practice their Spanish as well as with native Spanish speakers who want to practice their English. Sundays from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Talk Time: Talk Time is an informal conversation circle for non-native speakers to practice speaking English. Saturdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Story of Irish Music and Dance: The Stomptowners’ performance focuses on the journey of Irish music and dance to America. Told with relevant historical context and native wit. Saturday, Oct. 4 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Ten-Minute One-Bowl Meals: One-bowl meals are healthy, delicious and gorgeous. They can be tailored for weight loss, vegans, you name it. Bring your chef’s knife and a cutting board so you can create a small sample of your own to take home. Saturday, Oct. 11 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Starting Your Own Business-Feasibility and Business Plans: Curious about starting your own business? Learn about what to consider before taking the leap as well as tips for getting started writing your business plan. Presented in partnership by Portland Community College’s Small Business Development Center and Multnomah County Library. Registration is required. Register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Saturday, Oct. 11 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Pageturners Book Groups: Engage in stimulating conversation about books and get to know your neighbors. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Read “The Silver Star” by Jeannette Walls for discussion Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. Or read “The Art Forger” by B.A. Shapiro for discussion Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.

Principles of a Healthy Home: Join the Multnomah County Health Department in this introductory class on the fundamentals of a healthy home. You will be introduced to the Seven Principles of a Healthy Home and share resources and information about local healthy homes programs. Registration is required; register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Computer Lab: Lab assistants are available to help beginners practice their computer skills. Tuesdays from 5 to 7:30 p.m. (Assistance in Russian and Vietnamese also available.) Fridays from 2:30 to 5 p.m. (Assistance in Chinese also available.)

Introduction to Computers: In this fun, hands-on, four-session course, you will learn basic computer skills, including using the mouse and keyboard, working in Microsoft Windows, using Microsoft Word, surfing the Internet and using email. This course is ideal for someone who has a little experience with the computer but wants to know more. Offered by OASIS Connections. Registration is required; register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Mondays, Oct. 6-27, 2 to 4:30 p.m.
Try Your Hand at iPad: Do you have a new iPad? This class will help you learn to use it. Learn the basic layout of your iPad, settings, apps and more. Please bring your own iPad, fully charged. Offered by OASIS Connections. Registration is required; register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Wednesdays, Oct. 8 and 15, 5:45 to 7:45 p.m.

 Gregory Heights Library, 7921 N.E. Sandy Blvd., 503-988-5386
Space at programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, except as noted.

Tiny Tots: Storytime for children 12 to 24 months with adult. Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Book Babies: Storytime for children newborn to 12 months with adult. Thursdays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Toddler Storytime: Storytime for children 24 to 36 months with adult. Fridays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Preschool Storytime: Storytime for children 3 to 6 years with adult. Fridays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Vietnamese Storytime: Storytime presented in Vietnamese for children ages newborn to 6 years with adult. Saturdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Family Storytime: Storytime for children 6 years and younger with adult. Saturdays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Sugar Skulls: Paint your own edible sugar skull and dedicate it to an ancestor or loved one. Why sugar? Throughout Mexico, Day of the Dead is a celebration of joyful remembrance, and the sweetness of sugar reminds us of joy. Saturday, Oct. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Not So Spooky Stories: Enjoy stories and songs and make something fun. Wear your costume, if you like. Friday, Oct. 31 from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.

Read to the Dogs: Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog from Pet Partners. Registration is required; call 503-988-5386. Saturday, Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to noon and Tuesday, Oct. 7 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Minecraft Club: Meet up to chat about all things Minecraft. Review mods, participate in building challenges, or work together to complete a map. Bring your own laptop or use one belonging to the library. Tuesday, Oct. 7 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Flip Book Animation: This workshop is designed to introduce teens to the idea of time-based cartooning. Learn simple techniques and methods to make your cartoon characters move and show expressions for your flip book animation. Both beginners and experienced artists are welcome. Thursday, Oct. 9 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Teen Council: Meet new friends, learn new skills, help the library, eat snacks and have fun. Teen Council members work with library staff to make the library teen-friendly. Thursday, Oct. 23 from 4 to 5 p.m.

A Good Yarn: Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, come join the fun and learn together. All experience levels and ages welcome. Please bring your own supplies. Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Language Exchange: Engage in conversation with native English speakers who want to practice their Spanish and with native Spanish speakers who want to practice their English. There will be time for conversation in both languages. Saturdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Talk Time: Talk Time is an informal conversation circle for non-native speakers to practice speaking English. Sundays from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Paint Your Own Picasso Portrait: You needn’t have painting experience to emulate techniques of the masters. In this guided workshop, learn acrylic paint skills and a little art history while creating your own unique version of this iconic painting. Leave with a completed 12-by-16-inch canvas and introductory skills in color mixing, composition and layering. Registration is required; register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Monday, Oct. 6 from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Pageturners Book Group: Read “Love in the Time of Cholera” by Gabriel García Márquez. Engage in stimulating conversation about books, exchange perspectives about characters and plot and get to know your neighbors. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Monday, Oct. 20 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Vietnamese Computer Lab: Lab assistants are available to help beginners practice their computer skills. Wednesdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m.