Hello, LO! 👋 

What are your thoughts on the 2025 Lake Oswego School District Bond vote in November of this year?

One important consideration is seismic retrofitting of the remaining schools not up to code — specifically, Forest Hills and Lake Grove Elementary Schools. Built in the 1940s, both schools have foundations that can’t be updated, making a full replacement a more efficient option. Both schools would represent a significant risk to the lives of our youngest citizens in the event of the Big One, or even a medium-sized quake.

Portland recently approved a major bond, which sets aside retrofitting funds for 8-10 of the riskiest earthquakes schools to be brought to code. Lake Oswego has consistently prioritized seismic-retrofitting compared to Portland but there is still room for improvement with these elementary schools.

Is voting for this bond a no-brainer, or do you have a different take?

-Kerrie

P.S. — Do you want to be famous in LO for a day? Share LO Flow with three friends and you can choose either a birthday shout-out for yourself or a buddy.

The Current 🌊

Events this week

Wednesday, September 24

Fun Family Bingo (Willamette Garage, West Linn, 5:30pm). If you’re looking for an excellent food cart selection, bar access with craft beer and cocktails, outdoor seating, and a fun Wednesday night activity, this is calling your number.

Thursday, September 25

Witches & Witch-Hunters: Fear and Power in History (LO Adult Community Center, 10-11:30am). Whoever named this event has read my interests like a book. Witches! Fear and power! Join historian Dr. John Ott as he unpacks how witch trials were driven by politics, culture, and social control. Through rich storytelling and sharp analysis, this lecture reveals timeless lessons about conformity and the shaping of public opinion.

Mayor Buck’s Community Roundtable (LO City Hall, 5:30-7pm). This monthly forum is your chance to hear directly from the Mayor and Council about key community priorities. This month’s focus: Safe Streets — including the “20 is Plenty” speed reduction program, new pathway projects, and traffic safety education.

Ultimate Glamping Experience - Overnight Trip (White Salmon, WA). Trade traditional camping for a luxury outdoor escape at Under Canvas Mount Hood, nestled on 120 acres in the scenic White Salmon River Valley. This retreat offers the best of both worlds—immersive nature and upscale accommodations.

Friday, September 26

Bocce Tournament (Foothill Park, 5:30-7:30). Ready to roll into some fun? Local bocce competition with free pizza and drinks to fuel your throws.

Slasher Bingo (Milwaukie, 7-10pm). Close out summer and welcome spooky season with Slasher Bingo, a horror-villain–themed night of bingo, parody songs, trivia, prizes, and roaming character meet-and-greets—hosted by Pennywise the Clown. Costumes encouraged, ideal for ages 10+.

33rd Annual Juggling Festival & Vaudeville Extravaganza (Reed College, September 26-28). Expect workshops in juggling, circus, and flow arts for all levels, plus games, open gym, and a welcoming community of jugglers from near and far. On Saturday, don’t miss the family-friendly Juggling & Vaudeville Extravaganza—an unforgettable night of comedy and jaw-dropping performances.

Oregon International Air Show (McMinnville, September 26-27). What do vipers, snowbirds, growlers, and hellcats have in common? They’re all performers at this incredible air show. Get ready for both kids and kids-at-heart to get really excited.

Lake Oswego Open Studios Tour (September 26-28). Connect with the local artists of LO (91 of them!) showcasing their work across 42 locations.

Saturday, September 27

Building Bridges Book Group (LO Public Library and Zoom, 10-11am). Through reading and discussion of acclaimed works, we explore life’s rich diversity while fostering understanding, empathy, and connection. September’s selection is We Will Be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People by Nemonte Nenquimo.

2025 Mayor’s Golf Tournament (Lake Oswego Public Golf Course). A lively day of golf bringing together neighbors, businesses, and community leaders—all while supporting recreational scholarships for Lake Oswego residents.

Lake Oswego Farmer’s Market (Millennium Park Park Plaza, 8:30am-1:30pm). With a few more weeks until the close of the Farmer’s Market for the winter (October 25th), now is your time to stock up on fresh produce, flowers, and more.

Sunday, September 28

Cultural Exchange Festival 2025 (September 28, Millennium Plaza Park). Explore the world close to home—enjoy global cuisine, shop unique artisan goods, and connect with local groups fostering cultural exchange. Free admission.

Another Afternoon of Bocce (Foothills Park, 2-4pm). Ready to have a ball on the court and make some new friends? Lake Oswego 20s-40s Social Meet-up Group holding this space, all skill levels welcome.

Monday, September 29

Portland Mercury’s Wing Week 2025 (Portland, September 29-October 5). Forget the “best week of your life”—the Portland Mercury’s Wing Week is about to top it. Enjoy one-of-a-kind chicken wings at Portland’s favorite spots for just $10 an order.

Preventing Falls & Protecting Independence (Adult Community Center, 10-11:30am). Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults—but many can be prevented. Sarah Gold, R.N., from the OHSU Trauma Program, leads a class focused practical tools to stay safe, confident, and independent.

Tuesday, September 30

World Cinema Series: A Man Called Ove (Lake Theater, 5:30-7:30pm). Enjoy a screening of this Swedish film based on Fredrik Backman’s bestselling novel. The story follows a grumpy yet lonely man whose life changes through an unexpected friendship with new neighbors. Shown in Swedish with English subtitles. Free with food/drink purchases encouraged to support Lake Theater.

Mark Your Calendars:

LO Blood Drive (October 3, 9:30am-3pm). Take some time to donate blood and help meet ongoing patient needs for surgeries, cancer treatment, and chronic illness. Use sponsor code LOCityHall when scheduling.

LO Wine Walk (October 4) Walk downtown LO while sipping wine. An annual tradition. This event sells out every year, so get your tickets now!

2025 Monster Mash (October 31, Christ Church Parish). Join Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation for Halloween fun! Come in costume and stroll trick-or-treat stations for candy and toys. Special appearances by LO Firefighters, Police, Park Rangers, and Tryon Creek Rangers. Free for ages 0–12.

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Lil’ Squirts 🧒 

Kid-focused activities

Thursday, September 25

Indoor Playground at LORAC (LO Recreation and Aquatics Center, 9am-1pm). With rain back in the forecast, it’s the perfect time to line up indoor play spots for little ones (ages 0–4). LORAC offers a fun and affordable option.

Friday, September 26

Frog Pond Farm Pumpkin Patch (Wilsonville, September 19 - October 31). This isn’t your ordinary pumpkin patch—come say hi to the llamas, get lost in a llama-inspired corn maze, jump big in the bounce park, and soak up a full day of autumn adventure.

Saturday, September 27

Lego Club (Children’s Library @ LO Public Library, 3-4pm). Bring your tiny builders to imagine, build, and create LEGO masterpieces. Label your masterpiece with your name and age—then see it displayed for two weeks until the next Lego Club.

CANstruction PDX 2025 (Portland, September 15-28). Last call this weekend for a unique charity event held in over 150 cities worldwide featuring competing exhibitions of giant whimsical and wildly inventive sculptures made entirely out of canned food. At the end of the event, all food is donated to Oregon Food Bank. 

From a Hole in the Ground (Northwest Children’s Theater, SW Portland, September 27 - October 5,11am or 3pm). Nominated for a 2025 Oregon Book Award, From a Hole in the Ground is an original fairy tale of mischief, nature, and a lingering generational curse. Best for older kiddos.

Monday, September 29

Music and Movement in Mandarin (Lake Oswego Public Library, 10:30-11am). Join us for a program featuring songs, movement, instruments, and stories. All levels of Mandarin fluency are welcome. Recommended for ages 2–5.

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The Babbling Brook 🎶 

Live music this week

Wednesday, September 24

Moda Center | Jessie Murph | 7pm doors, 8pm show

Friday, September 26

Headliner’s Club | The Innocent Men (Billy Joel tribute) + Red Light Romeos | 8pm

Gemini Club | Sarah Lodge Band | 9pm

Saturday, September 27

Moda Center | Megan Moroney | 8pm doors, 8pm show

Headliner’s Club | Bad Moon Riders | 4:30pm

Headliner’s Club | Dance Machine | 8pm

Gemini Club | Bridgetown Get Down | 8pm

Nova PDX | Portland Cello Project |7pm doors, 8pm show

Monday, September 29

Moda Center | Ice Cube | 7pm doors, 8pm show

Tuesday, September 30

Moda Center | Mudvayne | 6pm doors, 7pm show

Wednesday, October 1

Moda Center | Stevie Nicks | 7pm show

Making Waves 🏢 

Local business news

Want to connect with the folks behind some of the beautiful produce of the LO Farmer’s Market? Meet Riverland Family Farms. Owned by brothers-in-law Tal, Inder, and Tyler, the farm is a true family-run operation. Tal and Inder, whose families have farmed in Punjab, India for generations, returned to their roots after careers in engineering and IT, founding Riverland in 2020 on land once stewarded by Denison Farms. Today, they grow over 100 certified organic crops with a focus on sustainability, heritage, and community, making their market booth a special place for fresh food and human connection.

Make a Splash 💦 

Weekly festivals

Portland Film Festival (Portland, October 1-5). Recently named one of the world’s coolest film festivals by MovieMaker, this weeklong event features workshops, guest speakers, premieres, and networking.

48th Annual Festival of Quilts (Hillsboro, September 26-27). Enjoy over 300 quilts on display, a raffle, vendor mall, gift boutique, free demos, and special National Quilt Month celebrations. If you’re looking to go with a group of fellow quilt-lovers, check out the Textile Treasures Extravaganza - Day Trip.

The Surge 🏄️ 

Sports of all sorts

Soccer

• Thorns @ FC Gotham | September 26 | 5pm

• Timbers vs. FC Dallas | September 27 | 7:30pm

Hockey

• Portland Winterhawks @ Everett | September 28 | 4:05pm

Football

• OSU Beavers vs. Houston | September 26 | 7:30pm

• Oregon Ducks @ Penn State | September 27 | 4:30pm

High School Sports (LO Lakers)

• Girls Varsity Volleyball vs. Tualatin HS | September 25 | 6:30pm

• Boys Varsity Soccer vs. Newberg HS | September 25 | 7:30pm

• Boys Varsity Water Polo vs. Lakeridge HS | September 29 | 6pm

• Girls Varsity Water Polo vs. Lakeridge HS | September 29 | 7:15pm

• Boys Varsity Soccer vs. Reynolds HS | September 30 | 7:30pm

High School Sports (Lakeridge Pacers)

• Girls Varsity Soccer vs. Century HS | September 25 | 7pm

• Girls Varsity Volleyball vs. St. Mary’s Academy HS | September 30 | 6:30pm

• Boys Varsity Soccer vs. Springfield HS | September 30 | 7pm

• Boys Varsity Water Polo vs. Tigard HS | October 1 | 6pm

• Girls Varsity Water Polo vs. Tigard HS | October 1 | 7:15pm

Upcoming Running Events

Portland Marathon (October 5) — 10K/Half/Full marathon. I’m ready. Are you?

Great Pumpkin Run (October 25) — 5k/10k/Half-marathon near Sellwood. Costumes encouraged + Halloween vibes.

The Lakeside 🏡 

House of the week

777 Cherry Circle | 3 beds, 4.5 baths | 4,755 sq ft

Price: $6,350,000  

Slight departure from our typical waterfront properties to fully out myself as a big fan of mid-century modern design. This one is beautiful — entire walls made out windows, a front-door that looks like heaven might sit on the other side, and stone sourced from Mount St. Helens. Talk about a subtle flex. As soon as I can afford the 30K/month mortgage, I’m buying this one.

Listed by: Lisa Marie Hamilton @ LUXE Forbes Global Properties

The Confluence 💡 

A few of our favorite things

Show: Taurasi

Taurasi is a Prime Video docuseries that pulls you inside the life of basketball icon Diana Taurasi, from her rise at UConn to her reign in the WNBA and beyond. With raw interviews (when is Taurasi not raw?!), behind-the-scenes moments, and a spotlight on the obstacles she’s faced, it showcases her fire and authenticity. Never heard of her? All the more reason to watch.

Book: Money, Power, Respect: How Women in Sports are Shaping the Future of Feminism by Macaela MacKenzie

Do any of these sound familiar? (1) Women’s sports don’t generate enough revenue (or viewership) to justify equal pay or investment. (2) It’s just supply and demand - fewer people are interested in women’s sports, so the economics follow. (3) Media coverage / marketing is tied to what people want to see; it’s not a systemic issue so much as a matter of interest. If you’ve said or thought or wondered about these things (I know I have), then this is your book.