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FAITH and VALUES
Events at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
Stop by St. Matthew's for a traditional Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on Tuesday, March 8, from 5 to 6 p.m. Enjoy a pre-Lenten feast of light-as-air pancakes, savory sausage, and cinnamon-topped applesauce while enjoying the company of friends and neighbors.

The church is offering a five-session Lenten Study program entitled “Embracing an Adult Faith.” This DVD series with theologian Marcus Borg covers the topics of God, Jesus, salvation, practice and community. Sessions will be led by the Rev. Lin Knight and Marla McGarry-Lawrence and will be held in the church office from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays beginning March 16. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. A workbook is available fo purchase. For more information or to sign up, please call the church at 503-252-5720 or send an e-mail to office@stmatthewepiscopal.org.

The Shared JoyBRingers Community Hand Bell Choir will perform at the 9 a.m. service on March 20. This is a local bell choir under the direction of Christine Weber-Kearney. The choir is searching for two more ringers. Experience is helpful but not required. Contact Weber-Kearney at 503-408-1329.

St. Matthew's is located at 11229 N.E. Prescott St.

Birthday party for Johan
Tabor Heights United Methodist Church, 6161 S.E. Stark St., will celebrate the birthday of Johan Sebastian Bach with a free organ concert on Sunday, March 20 at 4 p.m.

This will be the first in a series of six concerts featuring organist Christopher Wicks and soprano Alison Seeber. There will be a birthday bash reception following the concert.

To learn more, call 503-232-8500 or visit taborheightschurch.org.

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
If you are reading this, you can help
Start Making a Reader Today pairs an adult volunteer with an elementary school student to bring one-on-one reading time and two books a month to kindergarten through third grade students in area schools.

Imagine a community where every child can read and is empowered to succeed. SMART volunteers read with two students for 30 minutes each once a week and they help the students select books to take home every month to keep and read with their families.

Volunteers are needed at Gilbert Heights, Menlo Park, Mill Park, Prescott and Vestal elementary schools.

Volunteer now at getsmartoregon.org or call 971-634-1616.

Coaching kids to college
Many Parkrose High School students are poised to become the first generation of their family to go to college. These students often worry, however, that their prospects are limited. They may believe that all higher education is too expensive or that college is out of reach because no one in their family has gone. Others are overwhelmed by the paperwork and deadlines and simply don't know where to begin. ASPIRE advisors at Parkrose High School meet individually with aspiring students and offer them the necessary tools and knowledge they need to advance into higher education.

ASPIRE, a community-based advising program developed by the Oregon Student Assistance Commission, helps students at Parkrose and many other schools throughout the state. The goals of ASPIRE are to support students as they plan for college and encourage community involvement. Parents, alumni, residents of Parkrose and other fans of higher education are invited to volunteer with this college-prep program.

Heather Gillespie, a 2003 graduate of Parkrose High School is quite proud of her ASPIRE student. Yian Saechao, class of 2011, has already heard that she has been accepted at Seattle University, her first-choice school, and is a semi-finalist for SU's prestigious Sullivan Leadership Award. Gillespie encourages other alumni to volunteer with ASPIRE because “it provides the opportunity to reflect on your own college journey and share the challenges you encountered along the way. Your challenge turned opportunity might be the key piece of advice a student needs to see higher education as a possibility for their future.”

Help change the future for a student as an ASPIRE College Coach. Parkrose High is now recruiting additional volunteers to begin working with 10th and 11th graders. Volunteers need not be college graduates themselves to be a college coach as they will be trained on admissions and financial aid topics. After training, the commitment is one to three hours per week of time throughout the school year. Orientation for new volunteers is at 4 p.m. on either March 10, 11, 14 or 28. To join the ASPIRE team or to learn more about ASPIRE, contact the school's College & Career Center at 503-408-2642 or aspire@parkrose.k12.or.us.

Your time and donations will benefit Parkrose kids
Bob Brown, right, of Bob Brown Tire Center in Parkrose is a big supporter and donator to the annual Parkrose Educational Auction and dinner. He poses at the 2010 PEF event with long time BBTC customer Joe Rossi. The foundation disburses within the Parkrose School District for educational instruction, field trips, even cameras for the high school journalism class.
TIM CURRAN/MID-COUNTY MEMO
It's that time of year. The Parkrose Educational Foundation needs volunteers to help plan and execute its annual dinner and auction in April. This is the major fundraiser for the foundation each year and results in dozens of grants for field trips, student gardens, classroom enhancements, musical instruments and so much more. All Parkrose area residents are invited to help with this year's event.

The auction committee is also busy gathering items for both the silent and live auction portions of the evening. Vacation properties, gift baskets and products or services from local businesses all make great auction items.

To volunteer or to donate an auction item, please contact auction chair Allison Newman-Woods at allison944@gmail.com.

To learn more about the Parkrose Educational Foundation, visit parkroseedfdn.org.

FUNDRAISERS
Hustling pop cans from Parkrose patrons for good causes has gone on for years. This collection day was in September 2009.
TIM CURRAN/MID-COUNTY MEMO
Clink, Clank
Do you have returnable bottles and cans rattling around in your garage? Great! Gather them up, load them in your car and haul them down to Parkrose Middle School, 11800 N.E. Shaver St., on Saturday, March 5, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. AVID students - kids who may the first in their families to make themselves eligible for a four-year college or university - will take them off your hands and use the money to help prepare for college.

If that date has gotten past you, no worries, the Parkrose High band will be there on Saturday, April. 1.

Your castoff, someone else's treasure
The David Douglas High School Senior All Night Party committee is accepting donations for its annual rummage sale. The donation center is located in the south parking lot, by the football field of David Douglas High School on Southeast 130th Avenue between Division and Stark Streets. The location is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. through March 6. They are accepting all gently used items, but cannot accept computers or mattresses. Contact event coordinator Kari Deardorff for pre-approval at ddhsptsa@gmail.com if you have a large appliance you would like to donate.

The rummage sale will be on Friday and Saturday March 10, 11 and 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, March 18 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For additional information, or to volunteer to help with this event please contact Deardorff or visit daviddouglashighschool.my-pta.org.

Take a step back in time
Join Human Solutions for a memorable evening of nostalgic - for some or vintage for others - music from the classic nightclub era of the 1940s through the 1980s. “Tonight's the Night” is a trip down memory lane with Tony Starlight at his Supper Club & Lounge, 3728 N.E. Sandy Blvd., on March 12. Tickets are just $50 each for either a Happy Hour Show at 5 p.m. or a Just Desserts Show at 8 p.m. All this fun will be the backdrop for raising critical dollars to continue Human Solutions' programs housing or sheltering 190 homeless families every night-that's almost 500 homeless people, many of whom are children.

In addition to the music, there will be a live auction and raffle basket drawings. Your admission includes appetizers or dessert, one complimentary beverage, 5 raffle basket chances, and free parking. Purchase tickets at humansolutions.org.

Support the Parkrose Senior All-Night Party
Enjoy a great meal at Acapulco Restaurant, 10566 S.E. Washington St., between 11 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16 and the restaurant will share profits with the PHS SANP committee. You will need to take a flyer with you. They will be available at the high school the week of the event.

The group is also selling 16 oz. stainless steel water bottles emblazoned with the Bronco logo for only $10. Contact Kris Brown at 503-254-8691.

Steppin' out for Parkrose students
Allison Newman Woods, chair of the annual Parkrose Educational Foundation dinner and auction, heads a Conga line, a tradition signaling the event's conclusion.
TIM CURRAN/MID-COUNTY MEMO
The theme is chosen, 'Steppin' Out for Parkrose Students,' and auction items collected for this year's annual Parkrose Educational Foundation dinner and auction.

The evening includes champagne, appetizers, dinner, a silent auction, an oral auction, music and entertainment by Parkrose choir and band students on Saturday, April 30, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., at the Holiday Inn, Portland Airport, 8439 N.E. Columbia Blvd.

You get to enjoy a night out and through your generous donations, Parkrose school district students will enjoy field trips, classroom enhancements, musical instruments and expanded opportunities.

Tickets are $45 per person. Better yet, gather up a group of eight, and spring for a sponsor table for $400 or an alumni or school table for $320. Purchase tickets now at parkroseedfdn.org.

BAZAARS and CRAFT FAIRS
Show your crafts at spring fair
The David Douglas High School Parent Teacher Student Association is accepting vendor applications now for the 5th annual Spring Craft Fair to be held on Saturday, April 30. Contact Kari Deardorff at ddhsptsa@gmail.com for an application. The deadline is April 22.

THE ARTS
Tony Awarding winning play to be staged at DDHS
David Douglas High School drama department will present “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller at Horner Performing Arts Center, 1400 SE 130th Ave., at on March 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. and March 6 and 13 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults; $7 for students and seniors. The box office is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. and one hour before show time.

Free chamber music event
The Portland Chamber Music trio will perform on Friday, April 8 at 7 p.m. at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 11229 N.E. Prescott St. Chamber music originally referred to small concerts held in family living rooms and this hour-long concert will have that same intimate feel. Children will be invited to sit up front and ask questions of the musicians. Refreshments will be served. This concert is free but donations will be gratefully accepted.

Shakespeare meets the Wild West
“Much Ado About Nothing” is a comedy that combines two different love stories. Beatrice and Benedick hide their feelings behind an ongoing battle of wits, while Claudio and Hero profess their love only to have rumor, honor and manipulation tear them apart. The Madison High Theatre Department will present an updated version of the Shakespearean classic set on a ranch in the western United States. Sheriff Dogberry to the rescue.

Performances are March 10, 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. in the Hibbard Auditorium, 2735 N.E. 82nd Ave. Tickets are $8 for adults; $6 for students and seniors.

Bands and drums and vocalists
Don't miss Madison High School musicians March concert event. Enjoy these talented students as they perform some all time favorites on Wednesday, March 16 at 7 p.m. The concert band, drum line, Madison Singers and Top Notes along with special guest, the Portland Community Wind Band, will perform in the high school auditorium. MHS is located at 2735 N.E. 82nd Ave. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students six to sixteen years of age. Children under six are free. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

EVENTS and ACTIVITIES
Slough 101
Take the Slough 101 class to learn about this valuable, 18-mile waterway frequented by more than 100 bird species, 25 fish species and animals including otters, beaver, nutria and coyotes.Take the Slough 101 class to learn about this valuable, 18-mile waterway frequented by more than 100 bird species, 25 fish species and animals including otters, beaver, nutria and coyotes.
COURTESY COLUMBIA SLOUGH WATERSHED COUNCIL
If you have ever wondered about that slow-moving channel of water running from Fairview to North Portland, this free workshop is for you. Learn about the history, water, wildlife, and current issues of the Columbia Slough on Saturday, March 12 from 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Multnomah County Drainage District, 1880 N.E. Elrod Drive. Slough experts will lead hands-on activities including a tour of a pump station and water bug discovery.

Pre-registration is required. Go to columbiaslough.org. Suitable for adults and teens 14 and up.

Money management workshop for uncertain times
It's a trying economic time to manage money, especially if you are intimidated or confused about how to do it. Luckily, the Northwest Catholic Counseling Center can help you find new determination to take charge. NCC's daylong “Show Your Money Who's Boss!” workshop on Saturday, March 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. will help you take control of your finances.

Participants will learn to take charge of debt, regardless of income, and get practical skills around managing debt and setting personal financial goals. Everyone will design a manageable budget, and be inspired to set attainable goals.

NCC is located at 8383 N.E. Sandy Blvd. The fee for this workshop is $10 and includes lunch. The deadline for registering is March 11. There are some scholarships available. Those interested should call NCC at 503-253-0964.

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors will have a general membership meeting on Tuesday, March 22 at Parkrose Methodist Church, 11111 N. E. Knott St., at 7 p.m. The Parkrose School District will have a representative there to speak about the bond measure on May's ballot in the upcoming election. It will also have spring board member elections at that meeting.

LIBRARIES
Free music downloads now available from Multnomah County Library

For everyone who has ever heard a song on the radio and wanted to add it their collection, wanted a hit single off an album, or just wanted to explore the work of new musical artists, Multnomah County Library has a new, free online service. Freegal Music, a downloadable music service like iTunes and others, is now available through the library's website at www.multcolib.org/freegal. This service is free for all Multnomah County Library cardholders, and all downloads may be kept permanently.

Each library cardholder can download up to three songs per week (156 per year) and, unlike with checked out materials, keep the songs forever. All that is needed to access this service is a Multnomah County Library card number and PIN.

Freegal Music provides access to the Sony Music Entertainment catalog, which includes hundreds of thousands of songs, more than 100 genres of music, and more than 50 record labels. No special software is needed to use the service, and there are no digital rights management restrictions. Downloading of songs is completely free and legal for library cardholders. Songs are downloaded in a universally compatible MP3 format, so they can be saved to any computer, mobile device or MP3 player, including an iPod. Songs can be downloaded at home or at computer stations in libraries via a USB device, such as a flash drive or MP3 player.

“Providing this service is a reflection of the library's priorities,” said Director of Libraries Vailey Oehlke. “It gives our patrons access to more of the materials they want, in a format that is convenient and accessible while being highly efficient for the library. We anticipate that this will be a very popular new service.”

More information and answers to frequently asked questions about this service are available on the library's Web site. Freegal Music can also be found in the library's catalog by searching for “Freegal.”

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

Cantonese Storytime: Storytime presented in Cantonese for children birth to 6 years with adult. Sundays from 1:15 to 2 p.m., except March 27.

Yoga Storytime: This class introduces children to the benefits of yoga through stories, music and simple movements. For children ages 3 to 6 years and their caregivers; one child per adult. You are encouraged to bring your own mat. Tuesdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Book Babies: Storytime for children birth to 12 months with adult. Tuesdays from 11:15 a.m. to noon.

Pajama Time: Put on your pajamas, grab a bedtime buddy, and join staff for stories, songs and fun. For children 6 years and younger with adult. Tuesdays from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

Tiny Tots: Storytime for children 12 to 24 months with adult. Wednesdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. to noon and Fridays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Preschool Storytime: Storytime for children 3 to 6 years with adult. Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Toddler Storytime: Storytime for children 24 to 36 months with adult. Thursdays and Fridays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.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 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Vietnamese Family Playgroup: This playgroup is a wonderful opportunity for both children and parents from the community to meet and network with each other. It is also a gathering place for children to practice and learn Vietnamese. Saturday, March 5 and 19 from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Vietnamese Storytime: Storytime presented in Vietnamese for children birth to 6 years with adult. Saturdays, March 12 and 26 from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Ramona and Beezus Movie: Drop in for a viewing of the new movie “Ramona and Beezus.” The adventures of Ramona Quimby come to life in this film based on the best-selling books by Beverly Cleary. Ramona's vivid imagination, boundless energy, and accident-prone antics are put to the test when she helps her family face its biggest challenge. Wednesday, March 23 from 2 to 4 p.m.

BJ's Backyard Clown Show: Enjoy this fast paced comedy-variety-clown show with an exciting mix of magic, juggling, puppets, music, physical comedy and audience participation. BJ the Clown has performed over 1,500 comedy shows in public libraries for nearly 20 years. Nobody knows more than BJ about what makes children laugh. Thursday, March 31 from 3 to 4 p.m.

Teen Lounge: Use library laptops for homework or fun, play Wii or board games, and meet friends. For teens in grades 6-12. Mondays from 4 to 6 p.m.

Chess Club for Children and Teens: Have fun playing chess. Beginning, intermediate and advanced players are welcome. Bring your own set or use one in the library. Saturdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Teen Council: Meet new friends, learn new skills, help the library, eat snacks and have fun. Wednesday, March 2 and 16 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Read to the Dogs: Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog from the Delta Society's Pet Partners Program sponsored by Dove Lewis. Registration is required; call 503-988-5392. Mondays, March 14 and 28 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Kids Book Club: Calling all 4th, 5th and 6th graders: Like to read? Join the Midland Library Kids Book Club. Hang out and chat about each month's book and enjoy a related activity and snacks. Pick up a copy of the book at the information desk after you register. Read “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan. Registration is required; call 503-988-5392. Tuesday, March 29 from 4 to 5 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. This is not a class, but an opportunity to meet new people, share your culture, and have fun. Only English will be spoken. Saturdays from 3:30 to 5 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 “Ella Minnow Pea: A Progressively Lipogrammatic Epistolary Fable” by Mark Dunn for discussion on Tuesday, March 8 from 6:45 to 8 p.m.

Or read “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie for discussion Wednesday, March 16 from 1 to 2:15 p.m.

Smart Saving-Budgeting and Saving: If your money seems to disappear every month without much to show for it, this workshop may be just what you need to make ends meet and help you reach your goals. Learn to create a household spending plan to help you manage your money. You will also learn basic banking skills, how to use credit responsibly, and about local assistance resources to help you deal with financial challenges. This program is Monday, March 14 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Gregory Heights Library, 7921 N.E. Sandy Blvd., www.multcolib.org/agcy/grh.html, 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, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Book Babies: Storytime for children from birth 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.

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

Mi Piñata: Learn about the Mexican piñata and the meaning and role of this tradition in Mexican celebrations. Under the instruction of Nelda Reyes and Gerardo Calderon, craft your own traditional cardboard piñata and decorate it with colored papers. Saturday, March 19 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Quinceañera Dolls: Local artist Maria Alvarado will show you how to create a stunning Quinceañera doll. This workshop is for mothers and daughters. All materials provided. Registration is required. Register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Monday, March 21 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Teen Lounge and Homework Center: Use library computers, get homework help, or just do your homework and listen to music. For teens in grades 6-12. Thursdays 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. Saturday, March 12 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Vintage Modern Jewelry Design: Local artist and teacher Rachel O'Rourke will work with teens to create modern necklaces, bracelets and earrings using vintage jewelry supplies. Friday, March 25 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Vietnamese Book and Movie Club for Teens: Join a monthly forum where teens can come together and discuss popular Vietnamese language books and movies. This program will be conducted in Vietnamese and will allow Vietnamese teens the opportunity to strengthen their cultural identities while making connections with each other and the library. Saturday, March 26 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Knitting Club: 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.

Borderless-Migration, Globalization, and Changing Communities: In this time of cataclysmic change in our country and our world, it is important to ask not just how to get the economy back on track, but what kind of economy we want. Elliott Young will lead a discussion about the ways in which local communities in the 21st century need to think in new ways about the relationship between migration and globalization, and their effects on Oregon communities. Sponsored by Oregon Humanities. Wednesday, March 2 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Smart Saving-Avoiding Investment Fraud and Identity Theft: This presentation will help you recognize scams and take steps to protect your identity and savings. A certified public accountant from the Oregon Society of CPAs will discuss tips and strategies to avoid investment fraud and identity theft. Sunday, March 6 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
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Smart Saving-Budgeting and Saving: If your money seems to disappear every month without much to show for it, this budgeting workshop may be just what you need to make ends meet and help you save and reach your goals. This presentation will be led by a certified public accountant from the Oregon Society of CPAs. Sunday, March 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Pageturners Book Group: Read “The Girl Who Played with Fire” by Stieg Larsson. 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. Wednesday, March 16 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Smart Saving-Stretching Your Retirement Dollars: According to Boston College's Center for Retirement Research, Americans are $6.6 trillion short of what they need to retire, and many retirees underestimate their lifespan. So how can you make sure that you won't run out of money in retirement? A member of the Oregon Society of CPAs will discuss how to tell if you will fall short, strategies for making your money go further in retirement, how to evaluate your lifestyle and investments, and tips on annuities, reverse mortgages and tax planning. Sunday, March 20 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
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