Stroll Portland Heights by mwidman-wfgnationaltitle

Portland Heights

VISTA SPRING STREET FAIR

THE

Lisa Portiz owner of Funky Mulligan

PHOTO BY ELENI GERDING

Celebrating Community

Our mission is to honor the remarkable people and rich history of Portland Heights. Stroll aims to bring neighbors together through shared stories, local events, and businesses that inspire lasting relationships. Businesses like FOST.R Construction who live and work in the Portland Heights neighborhood. Remember our preferred providers are not only some of the best products and services in town they are our community supporters ensuring this magazine reaches your home each month.

This month’s issue highlights the Vista Spring Street Fair, events at Hoyt Arboretum, and Backbeat Music Academy. You will read a farewell letter from the beloved Deborah DeMoss Smith and receive a PSA for PNW dogs PLUS see our featured home, pet, and teacher of the month... Which story resonates most with you? See our NEWS page for some neighborhood August events and check out this year’s NW Natural Street of Dreams®. Want a complimentary pair

of tickets? Email Eleni eleni.gerding@ strollmag.com to be entered to win.

As we approach our 10-year anniversary in print this November, we celebrate a decade of storytelling and community building. We’re excited to continue showcasing cherished moments from our past while looking ahead to the stories that will shape the next decade. We warmly invite you to share your milestones, family stories, and business recommendations—your contributions are the essence of what makes this publication truly exceptional.

With gratitude,

Photo by Evelynne Gomes Greenberg Photography

ROOFING & GUTTERS

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

ARBORIST / TREE SERVICE

Tree Masters, Inc. (503) 771-4061 treemastertreeservice.com

ARTIST

Todd J Elliott Design (617) 480-0920 toddjelliott.com

ARTS / SYMPHONY

Oregon Symphony (503) 228-1353 orsymphony.org

AUTO SERVICE / MAINTENANCE

Everett Street Auto Works (503) 221-2411 esautoworks.com

BARK BLOWING

Red Bark, Inc (503) 722-5910 redbarkinc.com

BUILDING MATERIALS

Mr. Plywood (503) 254-7387 mrplywoodinc.com

CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Cathedral School (503) 275-9370 cathedral-or.org

CHIMNEY/ MASONRY/ FIREPLACE

Marcus Masonry (503) 704-2327

CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING

FOST.R Construction (503) 504-6587

fostrconstruction.com

InterWorks LLC (503) 233-3500 interworksllc.com

CONTRACTOR / REMODELING

Bridgetown Remodels and Repair (503) 702-5502 bridgetownremodels.com

COWORKING, OFFICE

SUITES, & EVENT SPACE

VIDA Coworking (503) 705-1591 vidacoworking.com

CUSTOM JEWELERS

Silver Wear PDX (989) 255-1520 silverwearpdx.com

CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGN

Judith Arnell Jewelers (503) 227-3437 juditharnell.com

CUSTOM WOOD FURNITURE

Beneath The Bark (503) 875-1656 beneaththebarkfurniture.com

GOURMET MARKET

Zupan’s Markets (503) 497-1088 zupans.com

HEATING/COOLING

Bull Mountain Heating & Cooling (503) 612-6677 bullmountainheating.com

HOME MAINTENANCE

Trusted Home Service Advisors (503) 863-1071 trustedhomeserviceadvisors.com

INSURANCE - SUPPLEMENTAL

Combined Insurance (971) 412-8800 combinedinsurance.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Walsh Custom Landscape (503) 793-7658

LUXURY SENIOR LIVING

The Watermark at the Pearl (503) 568-8870 watermarkthepearl.com

LYMPHATIC MASSAGE

The Detox Spa (971) 217-6159 thedetoxspa.com

MED SPA / AESTHETICS

Skin By Lovely (877) 568-3594 skinbylovely.com

MED SPA AND WELLNESS CENTER

Venya Medical Spa (503) 444-9294 venyamed.com

ORTHODONTICS

Ainslie Orthodontics (503) 227-6537 ainslieortho.com

OUTDOOR DESIGN & BUILD/ MASONRY/HARDSCAPE

Vulcan Design & Construction, Inc (360) 604-4777 vulcandc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Evelynne Gomes Greenberg Photography (503) 676-0755 egomesgreenbergphotography.com/

PLUMBING/HVAC

D&F Plumbing (503) 282-0993 dandfplumbing.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Avem Property Management (503) 820-0084 avempm.com

REAL ESTATE

Michele Bowler-Failing (503) 321-2000 bowlerfailing.com

Portland City Properties (503) 928-2434 portlandcityproperties.com

Windermere Realty Trust

- Macey Laurick (503) 730-4576 maceylaurick.com

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Touchmark (360) 524-4925

ROOFING & ROOF REPAIR

Hawthorne General Construction (971) 500-5190 hawthornegeneralconstruction.com

RUGS - FINE & CUSTOM

Christiane Millinger (971) 444-2440 christianemillinger.com

SENIOR CARE SERVICES

SeaStar Senior Services (503) 583-2292 seastarseniorservices.com

THEATER

Portland Center Stage (503) 445-3816 pcs.org

TITLE COMPANY

WFG National Title Insurance Company (503) 219-9088 wfgtitle.com

VETERINARY SPECIALTY HOSPITAL

DoveLewis Veterinary Hospital (971) 255-5931 dovelewis.org

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Northwest Women’s Clinic (503) 416-9922 nwwc.com

IMPORTANT NEWS & EVENTS

SEEKING CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS

WELCOME NEW BUSINESS SPONSORS

The Watermark at The Pearl

An inclusive community for seniors with river and mountain views in the Pearl District. Now leasing with NO BUY IN. Discover progressive Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care residences. Take advantage of our fantastic suite of on-site amenities and services. Enjoy our plentiful outdoor spaces, including our “green” space on the fourth floor. Let curated convenience be your everyday experience. Learn more at watermarkpearl.com or call (971) 434-0029

Have a business to recommend to us? If you love them, others will too. Pass on your best referrals for products and services to eleni.gerding@strollmag.com

We’re seeking enthusiastic community members (ages 14+) to join our team! Opportunities include content coordination, writing, photography, event planning, and networking with residents and local businesses. Ideal candidates are friendly, communicative, and reside in the SW Hills community. Both internship and paid positions are available. Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to fostering local connections and sharing stories that matter. Interested? Send inquiries to eleni. gerding@strollmag.com. Let’s grow together!

EVENT INVITE - CALLING ALL RESIDENTS

100 Years of Fire Station 15 in Portland Heights

When: Saturday August 2nd 1-5pm

Where: 1920 SW Spring Street

Why: To celebrate with the community

Details: Open house! Come see the inside of the fire station.

HH at Vista Spring Cafe

When: Friday August 15th 4-6pm | Where: 2440 SW Vista Ave.

Why: Connect with new neighbors. Get a drink and snack on us! Enter to win prizes!

RSVP: eleni.gerding@strollmag.com

*Events subject to change RSVP or email for more details

1960 SW 16th Ave

Joseph Gaston House

PRESENTED BY MARCIA WALSH - (W)HERE REAL ESTATE

Step into the rich history and luxury of the Joseph Gaston House, an architectural masterpiece built in 1911 by William C. Knighton in Portland’s West Hills. This captivating estate offers a timeless allure with its elegant living spaces, and impeccable craftsmanship. Perched on 3/4 of an acre in The Grid, it commands panoramic views of the city skyline and mountains, creating an idyllic backdrop for everyday living. Features include intricate moldings, high ceilings, stunning primary bedroom with walk-in closet and spacious bathroom with steam shower, and remarkable 5,000-bottle cellar. Outside, a beautiful patio overlooks downtown Portland, providing a serene retreat to unwind and take in the scenery. Extensively remodeled in the early 2000s, including full replacement of plumbing, and electrical. From its historic charm to

The Joseph Gaston House epitomizes sophistication and elegance.

Marcia has been a top-producing residential real estate agent for over 50 years, specializing in NW and SW Portland. Actively involved in her community, she supports OHSU’s Women’s Health Center and Cancer Council, focusing on melanoma research. In her free time, Marcia enjoys skiing, cycling, golf, and Zumba.

modern amenities, the Joseph Gaston House epitomizes sophistication and elegance, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of Portland’s architectural legacy. Option to include all furniture excluding all art and piano.

Shaping Futures with Words and Wisdom: Meet Mitch Overley

For Mitch Overley, education isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. As the 7th and 8th Grade Language Arts teacher, 7th Grade Homeroom teacher, and Dean of Students at Cathedral School, Mitch has spent the past decade inspiring young minds and helping students navigate the pivotal middle school years. Before making his mark in Oregon, Mitch honed his teaching and coaching skills in high school classrooms back in Indiana. Now, he’s a fixture at Cathedral, blending his love for

literature with a knack for leadership. In this Q&A, Mitch opens up about his journey, his passion for teaching, and what makes Cathedral School feel like home.

What do you love about teaching? I love connecting with students on a regular basis. I love passing on my love for reading and writing to students. And mostly, I love having fun and laughing with my students.

What do you find most challenging with your work?

I use up all my patience and energy while working, so I don’t have a whole lot left over for my personal and at-home life.

What are your hobbies? My favorite hobby is hanging with my dog, going on walks or hikes, or just chilling out with her (her name is Nala!). I also love reading (hence why I’m a Language Arts teacher), comic books, watching sports, Fantasy Football, and mushroom hunting.

Do you participate in any sports/physical activities?

I play for a Men’s Softball team in Lake Oswego. We’ve taken home the championship 3 out of the last 4 years! It’s safe to say we’re a dynasty.

Do you have any favorite teams? I come from Indiana so I love the Pacers and the Colts. Also, during football season, I’m a big fan of my Fantasy Football team.

What is your favorite music? Some of my favorite bands are Kings of Leon, Avett Brothers,and Alt-J. I love bringing music into my classroom. I keep a classroom playlist throughout the year and the students are encouraged to send me song recs for it.

Do you play an instrument? Does Guitar Hero on my PS2 count?

What is the last book you read? I love reading! For school, we’re finishing up The Giver, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Hunger Games. In my personal life, I’m reading The Antidote by Karen Russell (it’s so good and she’s a Portland author!).

What is something unique about you?

I have broken over 10 bones in my body! It’s been so many I’ve lost count. I can feel it in my bones when rain’s coming, which is quite often here in Portland.

If you weren’t teaching what would you do?

I’d probably be involved with baseball somehow. Either coaching/giving lessons or working as a scout. Or I’d be off the grid, living in the Oregon wilderness foraging for mushrooms and hanging out with elk.

What advice do you have for kids (or parents) today?

My advice for kids would be to read! Don’t ever stop reading! Be the kid in class that never puts their book down. Reading will help you so much in life and be so useful.

If you could be an animal which would you choose? I would be a peregrine falcon and I’d fly around to all the top sporting events and watch all the best games from the rafters.

ELENI GERDING

Greater Than

35 Years of communitycentered student support

“We

remain grounded in the belief that equitable education is a right—not a privilege.”

F or 35 years, Greater Than has worked to create a more equitable future for Oregon students. Our mission is simple and powerful: supporting students from povertyimpacted communities to thrive in school, college, and career. We serve students and families in two distinct communities—Rockwood in East Multnomah County and Downtown Hillsboro in Washington County. While the communities are more than 30 miles apart, they share many strengths and are both high opportunity communities. Both neighborhoods have been impacted by systemic racism, holding back families from thriving to their fullest potential. Greater Than exists to help dismantle those barriers.

and college and career coaching. We are committed to racial equity and work to build systems where students of color, firstgeneration college students, and students from low-income backgrounds can thrive. Parents and caregivers are recognized as central stakeholders in everything we do.

Our approach is rooted in deep partnership—with school districts, culturally specific organizations, colleges, and community leaders. We are intent on moving from a system of holding power over community to holding power with community. By combining direct services with collaboration, we remain responsive to the changing needs of families. Flexibility and adaptability are hallmarks of our model.

And it’s working. Last year, 89% of our high school seniors graduated—20% higher than the overall high school rate. We supported over 1,100 students across our sites, and many of our alumni have returned to serve as mentors, tutors, full-time staff, and advocates in the communities they call home.

As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, we remain grounded in the belief that equitable education is a right— not a privilege. We are proud to stand with families, students, and communities who have always known they are greater than the challenges they face.

To learn more or support our work, visit greater-than.org.

Founded in 1990 as the Oregon chapter of the national “I Have a Dream” Foundation, we began as a class-based model.

In 2010, we transitioned to a more holistic, whole-school model—starting with Alder Elementary in Rockwood—and in 2018, we became Greater Than to reflect the depth of this evolving work. By 2020, we had expanded to serve students at Lincoln Street Elementary in Hillsboro.

Today, Greater Than provides wraparound, individualized supports from early learning through postsecondary and career. Our programming spans the full education continuum and includes kindergarten readiness, high-dosage literacy tutoring, family engagement, culturally specific mentoring,

LOLA

Lola was featured in Stroll Portland Heights (known as Portland Heights Living at the time) in 2017. In 2020 she fell ill and endured a life saving surgery at DoveLewis which provided Lola a little more time with her family before she succumbed to hemangiosarcoma. We are sharing Lola’s story as a part of our “blast from the past” articles and to honor her life and the love she gave her family. Thank you to DoveLewis for being there when our beloved pets need them most. Below is the 2017 article.

Meet Lola: The Bulldog Princess

Lola is a five-year-old Bulldog who has been an integral part of her family since she was just a puppy. Her charming personality and unique quirks make her stand out, breaking all the usual Bulldog stereotypes.

FAVORITE THINGS

• Food: Dinner is her top pick, but cheesy popcorn is her absolute favorite treat.

• Activity: She loves chasing her favorite ball but won’t bother fetching it back—she knows her worth!

• Place: The beach is her happy place, where she can soak in the sun and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

• Companionship: Lola adores riding in the car and spending time with friends and family.

PERSONALITY AND HABITS

Lola is a true princess, refusing to walk on wet grass or step outside when it’s cold. On chilly evenings, she transforms into a cuddly lap dog, relishing the warmth of the couch and the company of her loved ones.

BREAKING BULLDOG STEREOTYPES

Lola shatters the myths surrounding Bulldogs—she doesn’t drool or pass gas and has a cheery disposition that brightens any room. Lola isn’t just a pet; she’s a cherished family member who brings joy, love, and plenty of laughter to everyone around her.

A tribute to a special bulldog

ELENI GERDING

FARWELL, PORTLAND HEIGHTS

BY DEBORAH DEMOSS SMITH

My maternal Southern grandmother instilled in me these words: “Good manners never go out of style.” Hence, I’m offering a heartfelt au revoir and deep gratitude to Portland Heights.

In 2001 my husband and I bought an 1883 Queen Anne house in the Heights. In the fall of 2023, I wrote an article about our beloved home for Stroll: Portland Heights magazine. Publisher Eleni Gerding encouraged me to continue to pen more stories focused on the history and the distinctive residents of the neighborhood (e.g., Council Crest Amusement Park: A Ticket to Ride, A Call from the Past and Fire Station 15 Portland Heights).

Recently, my husband Barry and I decided to move from Portland and relocate to NW Louisiana, where I have 21 undeveloped acres in the countryside. Here, continuing the historical bent, we

will build a Louisiana colonial house (it pays to be married to an historic architect!). Barry will continue his architectural work and I, the joys of being an intuitive medium and writer.

My morning walks on the bucolic road here no longer take me to Governor’s Park (at 2,240 miles away, that’s definitely too far!) but the walks do embrace the fertile area that offers the welcoming moos of the cows in the neighboring pastures and the melodic songs of the native whippoorwill. Other sightings may include the armadillo, the opossum, and the wild turkey - but not local resident Mr. Alligator, who is actually a shy creature!

Whether on my walks or sitting in the swing under the Southern live oak tree, I will cherish the fond memories of Portland Heights with deep appreciation and will miss y’all for a long, long time.

“Good manners never go out of style.”

Deborah DeMoss Smith has written/ produced awardwinning video documentaries, authored two books, and hosted a jazz radio program. But she credits her early morning walks, yoga, making seafood gumbo for guests, and being an Intuitive Medium that bring her unceasing joie de vivre.

Windermere Real Estate Brokers Dedicate 41st Annual Community Service Day to Portland Metro Area

came together in early June for the company’s 41st Annual Community Service Day. This event, celebrated across nearly 300 Windermere offices throughout the Western United States, paused regular business operations to focus on giving back to the communities they serve.

Local brokers, managers, owners, and staff united to support nonprofit organizations through hands-on volunteer efforts, showcasing their unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact. With a rich tradition of community service, the Windermere family has long been dedicated to improving the lives of their neighbors through initiatives like the Windermere Foundation. Since its inception in 1989, the foundation has contributed over $56 million to fund services for low-income and homeless families, reaffirming its mission to uplift the communities where they live and work.

This year, the Portland Heights office collaborated with the Chelsea Hicks Foundation’s Chelsea’s Closet program, assembling costume care packages for children’s hospitals in the area. These imaginative and vibrant costumes bring moments of joy and play to young patients, offering them a temporary escape from the challenges of hospital life. By organizing and preparing these care packages, brokers directly contributed to bringing smiles to countless children and their families.

Across the Portland metro area, similar acts of kindness were carried out at various other nonprofit organizations, reinforcing the core values of community connection and service that Windermere champions. These efforts underscored the

belief that real estate is not just about

also about

and

BACKBEAT MUSIC ACADEMY

Music is one of life’s greatest pleasures. While you can start learning an instrument at any age, beginning early can give you more time to explore and grow musically. Backbeat Music Academy, a music school for kids and teens, does just that by offering both specialized and general music classes with amazing teachers.

Backbeat Music Academy is located at 4770 SW 76th Ave, in the same parking lot as Fred Meyer on Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway. Walking up to the building, you’ll see an arrow with Jimi Hendrix that points you down in the direction of the school. If you go down a flight of stairs you’ll reach an open room with a few practice rooms, and many instruments from different cultures lined up against the walls.

John Lamb, the founder of Backbeat Music Academy, showed us around the school. We got to see the bandura, a harp guitar, a didgeridoo, a sitar and so many more world instruments that are all free to play. We were also shown upstairs where there are more practice rooms, many more instruments, and an outside area that John plans on turning into a kid’s patio.

John’s mission for Backbeat Music Academy is specific. He explains: “Our goal isn’t to make master musicians per se - Our goal is for our students to be effective people: so, their choices yield the results they expected and they get what they want. Through inquiry-driven exploration, kids develop the tools and attitudes to be effective learners at whatever they want to be successful at. A student with those tools will invariably outpace a student without them over time, should they decide they want to commit the necessary time and effort.”

He also stresses the importance of a growth mindset and how it differs from other music schools: “We develop that growth mindset within the classroom so they’re able to achieve their goals and become a better musician in an effective way.”

John Lamb, Founder, Backbeat Music Academy

Backbeat Music Academy provides lessons in guitar, piano, vocals, drums, trumpet, strings, music production, songwriting, ukulele, along with specialized programs for kids to explore different instruments. They also offer joint child-and-adult classes, allowing families to learn together, as well as summer camps that feature both solo instruction and opportunities to play in a band with fellow musicians. One of their bands recently performed at Alfred’s on Beale Street in Memphis, an incredible milestone for young artists looking to showcase their talent on a historic stage.

If you or someone you know is interested in music, I recommend you consider taking a free trial lesson at Backbeat Music Academy. You’ll be impressed by their academy!

Website: backbeatmusicacademy.com

Email: contact@backbeatmusicacademy.com

Phone: Call/Text (503) 290-5090

“LOVE LOVE LOVE their work! I can’t wait for more

Family Immunity for the Season Ahead

Good health starts with small, steady choices that strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

BY SHAUNA OSBORNE, NATIONAL EDITOR

AS SUMMER WINDS DOWN and schedules ramp up, it’s a smart time to give our immune systems a little boost. The shift into back-to-school season, with packed calendars and increased exposure to germs, can put added stress on the body. Luckily, simple daily habits offer gentle but powerful ways to naturally strengthen your family’s health and resilience.

FILL YOUR PLATE WITH COLOR.

Bright fruits and vegetables aren’t just beautiful; they’re packed with nutrients that keep the immune system strong. Aim for five or more servings per day in a rainbow of colors to ensure a variety of vitamins and antioxidants. Citrus is rich in vitamin C, berries bring antioxidants, and garlic and onions contain allicin, a compound with natural antibacterial properties.

MOVE A LITTLE, OFTEN.

Regular physical activity helps reduce inflammation and improves the circulation of immune cells, strengthening the body’s natural defenses. It doesn’t have to be rigorous; dog walks, bike rides or outdoor playtime all count. Making movement a shared part of your daily routine, whether a stroll after dinner or quick stretch breaks between homework and chores, builds healthy habits together.

DON'T SKIMP ON SLEEP.

Sleep helps the body repair, regulate inflammation and keep immune cells active. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours per night, while school-aged children typically require 9 to 12 hours, depending on age and activity level. Younger children often need even more. Consistent bedtimes and screen-free winddown routines go a long way toward restful sleep, especially when electronics are kept out of bedrooms.

STRESS LESS, TOGETHER.

Ongoing stress can weaken immunity over time, especially if unmanaged. Small moments of calm — like deep breathing or quiet, unplugged time — can make a meaningful difference. Adults who model healthy coping strategies help kids learn to do the same. These habits support emotional balance and better sleep, both essential for immune health.

TINY HELPERS FOR TOUGHER IMMUNITY

From pantry to playroom, these gentle aids help strengthen everyday wellness.

Vitamin C: Classic immune booster that helps white blood cells fight off bugs. Kid-safe and well-studied in proper doses

• Vitamin D: The sunshine vitamin that’s also a key player in keeping immune defenses strong • Probiotics: Good bacteria that keep the gut happy. Choose strains studied for children, like L. rhamnosus or acidophilus. • Elderberry: A fruity sidekick in gummy or syrup form that may shorten colds and offer a natural mood boost • Bee pollen: Tiny but mighty, bee pollen shows promise in calming inflammation and fighting germs.

Always talk to your child’s doctor before starting any supplement routine.

A Pacific Northwest Danger and a Dog’s Life Saved

The moment Sister turned away from her food bowl, her family knew something was wrong.

Usually eager, curious, and full of energy, she had suddenly become feverish, lethargic, and just not herself. Trusting their instincts and sensing the urgency, they brought her to DoveLewis. It was a decision that saved her life.

Sister was diagnosed with salmon poisoning disease, a potentially fatal illness found almost exclusively in the Pacific Northwest. Dogs can contract it by eating or coming into contact with raw salmon, trout, or other fish carrying a parasite infected with a specific bacteria. Many pet owners have never heard of this dangerous illness, but the experienced

the medicine was, it was the care and compassion from the entire team that truly made the difference. “She was clearly asking for help with her eyes,” said Dr. Davis. “That’s when we know it’s our job to do everything we can. Each small sign of trust and comfort, like a wag or a gentle nudge, reminds us why this work matters so deeply.”

The very next day, Sister began to perk up. Her fever dropped, her appetite returned, and when her favorite technician walked into the room, her tail gave the faintest hopeful wag.

That tiny gesture said everything.

DoveLewis medical team quickly recognized the signs. “Because this illness is unique to our region, we always keep it on our radar,” said DoveLewis Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Barbara Davis. “If a dog has been near water and shows certain signs, we respond immediately. Early treatment can mean the difference between life and death.”

And that’s exactly what Sister needed: fast and decisive action. When the team learned she had recently been on a riverside hike, they acted quickly, starting her on IV fluids to help combat dehydration, along with antibiotics and anti-nausea medication to fight the infection and ease her discomfort. As important as

Now home and recovering well, Sister’s story is a powerful reminder for pet owners across the Pacific Northwest: outdoor adventures come with hidden risks. A little prevention, like carrying clean water and steering clear of raw fish, can go a long way toward keeping your dog safe and healthy.

Thanks to her family’s quick action and the expert care she received at DoveLewis, Sister gets more time to do what she loves most: exploring, playing, and sharing every moment with the people who love her.

“She was clearly asking for help with her eyes,”

DR. BARBARA DAVIS

FALLINGin Love

WITH NATURE AT HOYT ARBORETUM

BY REBEKAH GOLDEN, HOYT ARBORETUM FRIENDS

POP-UP NATURE! WAS A JOY TO SHARE WITH MY 6-YEAR-OLD GRANDDAUGHTER.”

traditions for many local families—and this year, they’re back bigger, better, and more accessible than ever.

Pop-Up Nature! is hosted in the Visitor Center courtyard every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 9am to noon, with new nature topics each week—from pollinators and bird nests to amphibians and berries. Drop in to participate in activities at the stations, pick up a trail activity, and start exploring. Kids can collect stamps in their Pop-Up Nature! Passport each week they attend—and earn a prize after five visits!

Family Forest Days returned to Stevens Pavilion on Saturday, July 12 and will be hosted again on Saturday, August 16 from 9am - 1pm. These festive, free events feature hands-on activities, crafts, music, book readings by local authors, and special activities led by a fabulous lineup of community partners. Come to celebrate and bring a picnic–there will be picnic blankets and a shady

reading circle set up in the meadow for families who want to linger and relax.

The best part? All of these programs are completely free, made possible by the support of Hoyt Arboretum Friends members. If you aren’t already, become a member at hoytarboretum.org/donate.

One local grandmother shared this about her experience last year: “Pop-Up Nature! was a joy to share with my 6-year-old granddaughter. She looked forward to it every week, and we often talked about what we learned afterward. Many times, she would just blurt out, ‘I LOVE nature!’ Hoyt Arboretum is now very special to her— and I just wanted everyone involved to know they made a difference in this little girl’s heart.”

We hope you and your family will join us this summer to learn, play, and fall in love with nature too. Learn more at hoytarboretum.org/youth.

Summer at Hoyt Arboretum is pure Portland magic–light filters through the forest canopy, trails wind through cool groves of tall conifers, and the scent of warm earth and pine needles hangs in the air. Frequent users also know that summer at Hoyt Arboretum sounds like the joy and wonder of learning children. Squeals of delight as slug antennae pop-up to say hello or gasps of wonder at observing flower parts under a microscope.

If you’ve stopped by the Visitor Center on a summer morning in years past, you may have spotted a Nature Educator helping a curious kid examine a pinecone, or maybe you’ve taken a look through the microscope yourself. Pop-Up Nature! and Family Forest Days have become favorite

Street of Dreams 2025

This summer, the NW Natural Street of Dreams® returns, inviting the Portland region to explore a dazzling array of homes showcasing the best in modern design, craftsmanship, and innovation.

Running from July 31 to August 24, 2025, this iconic event features a mix of homes in multiple locations, including two grand 7,000+ sq. ft. estates in Lake Oswego’s Oswego Reserve. Presented by Community Financial/Banner Bank and Standard TV & Appliance, the event reflects the evolving dreams of homeowners and builders alike.

A Broader Vision of Dream Homes

In its 2025 iteration, the Street of Dreams continues its ON TOUR format, featuring

finishes to its hand-crafted water features, Alla Famiglia is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship.

A

celebration of innovative living

19 remarkable homes scattered across the Portland metro area. From luxury estates to compact cottage clusters, the event highlights a range of housing types and price points, offering inspiration for every visitor with the understanding that dreams look different to everyone.

For those drawn to the extraordinary, the Oswego Reserve site in Lake Oswego presents two breathtaking homes crafted by Elite Homes LLC and Red Hills Land & Design.

Spotlight on Exceptional Craftsmanship

Old World Charm Meets Modern Luxury: Alla Famiglia

One of the standout homes, “Alla Famiglia,” is a masterpiece from

Red Hills Land & Design. Located on a picturesque 1.6-acre lot in Lake Oswego, this European-style estate is designed for multigenerational living.

The limestone and stucco exterior with copper accents exudes timeless elegance, while the interior boasts wide-planked oak floors, rustic wooden beams, and soaring ceilings.

The home’s centerpiece is its resortlike outdoor living area, complete with a pool, waterfall, and cabana. Inside, a spacious mother-in-law suite, a copperclad freestanding tub in the primary bath, and a lower-level recreation space featuring a theater, gym, and saunas ensure every family member feels at home. From its intricate plaster

Modern Elegance in Johns Landing Nestled in SW Portland’s vibrant Johns Landing neighborhood and built by Exceptional Homes by Andre, this residence merges contemporary luxury with the serenity of nature. Floor-toceiling windows frame stunning views of Mt. Hood and lush greenery, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.

The home’s kitchen is a culinary dream, boasting top-tier appliances, a Calacatta marble backsplash, and honed quartz countertops. The primary suite serves as a private retreat, featuring spa-like amenities and dual walk-in closets.

A self-contained guest suite with a private entrance, kitchenette, and accessible design adds versatility, making it ideal for multigenerational living or hosting long-term visitors. With its thoughtful details and refined finishes, this home exemplifies the blend of livability and luxury that defines the Street of Dreams.

Event Details

The 2025 Street of Dreams offers an experience for every taste and interest. Tickets provide one-time access to each home and are available at www.StreetofDreamsPDX.com.

Whether you’re drawn to luxurious estates, innovative urban designs, or sustainable housing concepts, this event promises to inspire and delight.

As the NW Natural Street of Dreams® nears its 50th anniversary, it remains a vibrant showcase of the region’s finest builders and the diverse dreams of its residents. Don’t miss this chance to tour some of the most spectacular homes in the Pacific Northwest.

Hours and Dates for ALL of the Tour

Show dates–July 31–August 24

Extended weekends only.

Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 10:00 am–8:00 pm

Sundays 10:00 am–6:00 pm

Modern Elegance by Exceptional Homes by Andre

Alla Famiglia by Red Hills Land & Design

2025 NW Natural Street of Dreams Home by Elite Homes PDX

Portland Public Schools

2025 - 2026 District Calendar

Aug 29; K Students attend 1 day between Aug. 27 Aug. 29 in small groups. Pre-Kindergarten/Head Start first day (9/4) Grading Day: 10/30, 1/26, 4/3, 6/10

New Educator Orientation: 8/14, 8/15. Make-up date:10/10

First/last day of school for students (8/26 & 6/9): 7th-8th & 10th-11th grade at comprehensive middle schools and high schools start on 8/27 End of quarter: 10/29, 1/23, 4/2, 6/9 Indicates a major religious or cultural holiday or event to avoid scheduling conflicts. For holidays lasting multiple days, only the first and last day are indicated. See back

The Vista Spring Street Fair

A huge “thank you” to our sponsors for coming out in the rain to support our community. Shout out to SWHRL and their volunteers for executing a stellar event despite the weather and providing complimentary ice cream for everyone from The Mobile Scoop. Many wet dogs and families with umbrellas braved the Portland June weather to hear Lincoln High School student Gemma Hoekstra sing the National Anthem to kick off the event. Lots of fun shopping, prizes, and information was gathered. A good time was had, in true Portland spirit, rain and all. We look forward

Crafting Nature, Creating Perfection.

Use this list of business owners and professionals from Portland Heights as an opportunity to network, qualify, and potentially build a business relationship with other successful individuals who also live here. To be included in the Resident Business Guide, email your details to eleni.gerding@n2co.com

ARTIST

Mara Safransky Art

Mara Safransky marasafransky.com

ARTIST / DESIGNER

Todd J Elliott Design Todd Elliott toddjelliott.com

CATERING/DELI

Elephants Delicatessen

Anne Weaver elephantsdeli.com

COFFEE SHOP

COTTA

Colleen Piche Vianello @cottacart

CONSULTANT/COACH