The Parent 2 Parent Blog

GSP and FAIS students practice for their benefit concert on March 4.

When students at the German American School of Portland (GSP) heard about January’s devastating earthquake in Haiti, they asked themselves and their Head of School, “What can we do to help?” Brainstorming with students from the French American International School (FAIS), and music teachers Nathan Conant and David Olson, they decided to hold a joint benefit concert.

That concert is scheduled for Thursday, March 4 at 1:20 pm.

Both schools strive to teach cross cultural awareness and make students aware of global issues. “Our kids are More…

Category: Charitable Giving, Events/Performances // Posted on March 3, 2010 // Leave a Comment

titlewaveAs if their prices weren’t already in the bargain basement, Title Wave Used Books – Multnomah County Library’s used bookstore – is ringing in the New Year with a month-long sale! Every day in January features a new special.

Of particular interest (to us, at least) are the following:

* January 5: 55% off all cookbooks
* January 8, 13, 22 and 26: Buy two, get one free
* January 9: 55% off all audiobooks
* January 15: 55% off all book by and about women
* January 16: 55% off all animal books
* January 23: 55% OFF ALL KIDS’ BOOKS!!!
* January 29: 55% off all all graphic novels and Manga

Check out the store’s calendar for more daily specials. More…

Category: Events/Performances // Posted on January 4, 2010 // Leave a Comment

dojumpWe just received this review of Do Jump’s holiday show Tiger Lilly and Sunny Lu (from a friend of Metro Parent):

This show is fantastic! Clearly written by someone who fully understands cat behavior, Do Jump’s Tiger Lilly and Sunny Lu is an energetic and often hilarious tale (tail?) based on the memoirs of a house cat. Combining dance, acrobatics and gymnastics, the talented cast members wrestle, stretch, leap, pounce and play to create a feline circus that is sure to entertain. Add in well-made costumes, a whimsical set and vibrant live music, and you have a delightful holiday show that both grown-ups and children will enjoy. My girls (ages 10 and 7) loved it!

Sounds like a must see! Here’s the scoop to plan your theater date:
Tiger Lilly and Sunny Lu runs through Jan. 3; various dates and times (check the website for details). $32 adults, $20 ages 12 and under. Echo Theatre, 1515 SE 37th. 503-231-1232. www.dojump.org.

Category: Events/Performances // Posted on December 17, 2009 // 1 Comment

snow2There’s no snow in the forecast this week (although it sure has been cold enough!), but even if the flakes don’t fall from the sky, you can get your fix of snowfall while you shop! Pioneer Place will be transformed into a winter wonderland complete with falling “snow” at 6 pm every Monday through Friday; 1, 4 and 6 pm every Saturday; and 1, 3 and 5 pm every Sunday through Dec. 24. (Free. 700 SW 5th Ave.; 503-228-5800; www.pioneerplace.com.)

Not to be outdone, the Woodburn Company Stores will produce their own “snowfall” at Santa’s cottage every night from 6 to 7 pm through Dec. 24. (1001 N Arney Road, Woodburn; 888-644-SHOP; www.woodburncompanystores.com.)

For information about great places to enjoy snow on the mountains, check out the listings in our Family Activities and Destinations guide under Skiing and Winter Sports.

Category: Events/Performances // Posted on December 14, 2009 // Leave a Comment

Festival of Trees

Looking for a reasonably-priced, family-friendly holiday event? Look no further than the Providence Festival of Trees, taking place Friday and Saturday at the Oregon Convention Center. This is the 27th year of this holiday tradition where your family can enjoy more than 100 lavishly decorated trees, continuous live entertainment on the Festival Main Stage, holiday crafts at Santa’s Workshop, model trains and more. Kids 12 and under receive a free teddy at the Teddy Bear Hospital!
The Festival of Trees is very reasonably priced – only $5 for adults, $3 for kids (3 to 12) and free for ages 2 and under. You can click here for a coupon that will give you an additional $1 off admission! Photos with Santa $5. The Festival benefits the Providence Cancer Center, its Center for Medically Fragile Children and other Providence programs.
The 411: 10 am to 9 pm Dec. 4 and 10 am to 6 pm Dec. 5. Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE MLK Blvd. www.providence.org/festivaloftrees.

Category: Events/Performances // Posted on December 2, 2009 // Leave a Comment