You won’t be disappointed! We’ve got an in-depth report on the state of civics education locally. You may be surprised by what we discovered. (Hint: it doesn’t bode well for the future of our democracy.)
We take a thoughtful look at families living with autism – what are their struggles, challenges and successes? Our reporter dived so deeply into the subject of ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders) that we also have an extended online autism section, with tons of resources, that you can access by clicking here.
The September issue also contains the results of our annual “Family Favorites” reader survey. More…
Category: Metro Parent // Posted on August 31, 2009 // Leave a Comment
Oregon State Fair. It’s The Big One. Plan on arriving early in the day – you’ll need the time to do this Oregon celebration justice. Lots of free entertainment including: USO-style show, talent contest, rodeo, circuses, sea lion encounters, magic and more – plus the Midway and carnival rides. Don’t miss the “Just for Fun” competitions including the Watermelon Seed Spitting, Corn Shucking and Dress a Fruit or Veggie contests (with the latter, kids get free admission). 
My father spent most of his childhood on a farm in Kansas and considered himself a country boy at heart. Likely due to those rural roots, he insisted that our family adopt an end-of-the-summer tradition of visiting the Oregon State Fair each year. He wanted his kids to have at least some familiarity with farm life – but he also knew that it would be a heckuva lot of fun.
And he was right. My siblings and I thoroughly enjoyed those Labor Day weekend excursions. And while I remember looking forward to all of the rides, the Curly Fries and the obligatory ice cream cones at the Dairy Wives hut, I also happily recall our annual trip to the animal barns, where we would learn (once again) the difference between dairy and beef cows; where we’d ponder the strength of the massive Clydesdales; and where the grande finale was always a visit to see the mama pig and her litter. (After 15 minutes or so of assimilation, we even got used to the smell. …) 
It’s back-to-school time – and that means it’s time to purchase all of those pencils, markers, crayons and glue sticks.
Grand Opening of Bill Naito Legacy Fountain. This two-day celebration features artists representing nearly 20 different countries of origin, from Chatta Addy (pictured) to the Molly Malone Irish Dancers. 11 am to 4 pm Aug. 22 and 23. Free. Bill Naito Legacy Fountain near the Burnside Bridge in Waterfront Park. 503-823-5592. 
I’m very aware that surfing the ‘net can quickly turn into a MONUMENTAL waste of time. For the most part, I manage to avoid it.
It’s easy to forget that we moms need to fill our souls from time to time if we’re going to have anything left to give to our partners and children.
Jack and the Beanstalk. Broadway Rose Theatre Co. presents this zany original musical with a singing and dancing giant. All ages. 11 am Aug. 12, 13, 14 and 15. $6, free ages 2 and under on laps. Deb Fennell Auditorium at Tigard High School, 9000 SW Durham Road. 503-620-5262. 
The entire family is invited to take part in the annual Mt. Hood Jazz Run on Sunday, Aug. 16 at Mt. Hood Community College, 26000 SE Stark, Gresham. This family-friendly event features a Kids’ Fun Zone (opens at 9 am) with activities by OMSI, the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children’s Museum, bouncy houses, face painting and more. The Kids’ Fun Zone is free (except for the bounce house; $1 per bounce) and open to the public; each child participating in the Jazz Run receives a free bounce, JaCiva’s cookie and goody bag! The 5K run/walk starts at 8 am; the 1K and 2K kids’ runs starts at 9 am. 
Has your family experienced the Mt. Hood Railroad yet? If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to do so, consider their “Family Explorer Lunch Train” excursions, taking place this month.
More Fair and Festival Fun! The Clark County Fair promises tons of family fun, including animals (kids love animals!), carnival rides, dock dogs, kids’ entertainment and contests, strolling acts and much more. All ages. 8 am to 11 pm Fri Aug. 7. 10 am to 11 pm Sat. Aug. 8, 14 and 15. 10 am to 10 pm Aug. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 16. $9 adult, $5 kids, free under 7. $5 to park, extra charge for rides and other activities. 17402 NE Delfel Road, Ridgefield, Wash. (Exit 9 off I-5). 360-397-6180. 
Jacki Kane is back with her monthly stand-up “momedy” show, TIME OUT: The Mother of All Comedy Shows, on Friday, Aug. 7 from 7 to 8:30 pm at Airplay Café, 701 E Burnside. This month’s theme is The Nanny Diaries Retold and Kane and other local moms will take the stage to share childcare anecdotes, antics and angst. From the press release: “Most of the moms have never been on stage before. There are no auditions or previous experience required – just like parenthood.” (We love that!)
