Portland - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 443

Vaux Swifts ( www.audubonportland.org/local-birding/swiftwatch ) Every September,
tens of thousands of these little birdies roost in Chapman Elementary School's old
brick chimney. Seeing them spiral down in their multitudes, right at sunset, is an
unforgettable sight.
Pdx Adult Soapbox Derby ( www.soapboxracer.com ; 3rd Sat in Aug) Great spectator
fun, when homemade, nonmotorized vehicles (from Mr Potato Head models to
aerodynamic speedsters) swoosh down Mt Tabor's sinewy road, driven by cos-
tumed contestants.
Courses
Portland's Culinary Workshop COOKING
( 503-512-0447; www.portlandsculinaryworkshop.com ; 807 N Russell St) From beginner to
professional cooking courses, including seafood, barbecuing, Mexican, Thai, gluten-free,
pastries and cakes…
Elements Glass GLASSBLOWING
( 503-228-0575; www.elementsglass.com ; 1979 NW Vaughn St) Glass-artist wannabes can
take a beginners course at Portland's largest glassblowing shop, just north of the Pearl
District.
Mazamas ADVENTURE SPORTS
( 503-227-2345; www.mazamas.org ; 527 SE 43rd Ave) Plug into the outdoor-adventure com-
munity with courses on mountaineering, rock climbing and Nordic skiing, among others,
run by this educational organization.
FH Steinbart Co BREWING
MAP GOOGLE MAP
( 503-232-8793; www.fhsteinbart.com ; 234 SE 12th Ave) A store offering beer-making
classes, along with a great selection of home-brewing equipment.
820 Lounge BAR
( 503-284-5518; www.mintand820.com ; 816 N Russell St) Learn to make avocado daiquiris
with Lucy Brennan, one of the nation's top mixologists. Classes take place monthly on
Saturdays.