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October 12th, 2007
Our mom is like a recipe savant. She can recreate any recipe over the phone from anywhere in the world, at any time, just from the knowledge she’s accumulated in her head. Want to make handmade pasta, pineapple upside-down cake or bibim bap? It doesn’t matter if she’s driving on the autobahn or elbow-deep in a Nordy’s sale rack, when Mom’s on the line, we don’t need a cookbook! So last week we rang her up about an hour before a dinner party, desperate for a frosting recipe because our attempt at this “simple” confection was failing miserably. We had a bar of baking chocolate, a box of confectioner’s sugar, and no idea what to do. Relax, she said, and helped us create decadent frosting (she was in her friend’s car, on their way out to dinner, btw). Yes, Mom did great, but unfortunately for us, we mangled so many cupcakes while applying the frosting that we had to forgo the spatula and spread it with our fingers. Oh well—at least it tasted good. Anyone for rack of lamb? Hello … Mom??? |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | What to Wear Portland is an outdoor enthusiast kind of town, and we want to look fabulous no matter what the situation. We also like to think we're pretty hip—fashionistas, if you will. So when we saw the sign outside the brand-new Chapter Four boasting that they outfit the urban nomad, we were first in line to check out the wares. From jackets and skirts to dresses and jeans, Chapter Four has stylish and fun clothes for the urbanite in all of us. But they’re about more than what to wear. Chapter Four has it all—sparkly jewelry, crafty cards, funky socks, chic gloves, whimsical wallets, and oodles of hats, especially great for walking around town in this weather! But what about the men in our lives? They like to look good, too. Not to worry—Chapter Four also carries cool graphic tees, jeans, jackets and more for guys. No matter how you get around in this town, head to Chapter Four to be “outfitted” for your “nomadic” lifestyle. Their unique sense of style will send you on your merry way, whatever your destination. Chapter Four |
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| 2 | Nothing Lost in Translation We’ve always fancied the idea of traveling to faraway lands like Japan, but in the manner of a cool, hip, streetwise local, not some tired tourist being herded around in a conspicuous group. We imagine our in-the-know guide would take us by the hand to all the cute shops, art galleries and fashion-forward boutiques where we’d instantly become culturally savvy and come home with the most unique finds. So what to do if you’re curious about Japanese art & street culture but can’t fathom the 20-hour flight? Make the short trip to Compound (the new union of Just Be Complex + Compound Gallery) and immerse in everything they have to offer. Owner Katsu says his focus is on urban streetwear, vinyl collectibles (UNKL, Kidrobot, TokiDoki) and limited-edition Japanese fashion (imported Kimono Hoodies)—rare finds you can’t score anywhere else in Portland. He also fills the loft-like shop with modern home furnishings, artwork, prints, DVDs, toys, and special-edition adidas, Vault and Nike sneakers. Arigato gozaimasu, Compound, for bringing the goods to us! Compound |
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| 3 | Come Spa with Me You know those days when your head is full to capacity and you’re cranky and tired and sore and you just want someone to rub your shoulders? Starting Monday, Oct. 22, your prayers will be answered, permanently. McMenamins Edgefield is opening Ruby’s Spa, with manicures, pedicures, massage, scrubs, make-up application, hair styling and more. You’ll be pampered like a star in their fab facility—it’s set in the historic Janus House—and they use luxurious natural products like Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, PureOlogy’s earth-friendly hair care, and bioenergetic Anakiri skin and body care. The icing on the cake is an outdoor, heated, saltwater soaking pool in a freeform oasis. We’re feeling better just thinking about it! We are booking their Sun & Moon Aromatherapy Facial ASAP—it uses wild-grown herb and plant essences. But if you want all-out indulgence, we recommend the Spa Getaway Package: an overnight stay for two in a queen European-style room, two one-hour treatments, plus breakfast at the Black Rabbit restaurant. Can’t you just feel the tension leaving your body? They're taking appointments now, so call to reserve your getaway! Ruby’s Spa at McMenamins Edgefield |
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| 4 | Toasty Warm Remember “Blast From the Past”? That movie with Brendan Fraser and Alicia Silverstone where he plays that guy who’s been brought up in an early 1960s bunker his whole life and his father warns him against adult bookstores? The folks in that flick would have welcomed Toast—as we did. Toast, in the former “Bad Ass Video” space on SE 52nd and Steele, is an adorable and delicious neighborhood spot. Toast wakes you up delightfully with dishes like the Occasional Hedonist, an onion tart dotted with two poached eggs, plus breads, English Muffins and pastries that are all homemade. But we love the relative calm at dinner, especially on those chill nights that make us love Portland fall so much: Drinks are served in thick-bottomed glasses, and the back-to-basics menu shines with salads that dance in light dressing, toothsome pasta and delicious soups. At Toast you’ll get a labor of love—but certainly a different kind than had previously filled the space. Expect nothing more than really good food. Yes, the force is strong with this one. On one visit, even the silverware was magnetic. We’ll be back for sure. Toast |
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| 5 | The Honeymoon is Over When we got married, we registered for the cutest home accessories—lamps, art, that giant twisty sconce in the hallway. We spent months opening packages and we got everything we ever dreamed of ... especially that shiny, crystal something-or-other that showed up from crazy Aunt Edna. But now, the honeymoon is over—we’re older and we need new goodies. Our dreams came true at Zucari Home and Garden. We found so many accessories we could hardly believe our eyes—candles, picture frames and even faux flowers. They had everything we needed to get that warm, sophisticated feel that we’ve been craving at home. We even totally crumbled and bought the cutest ceramic pumpkin to celebrate Halloween. Owner John Anderson says that Zucari plans on bringing in a decorating service soon—to help us make decisions and add some Zen to our decorating style. We sometimes get a bit overwhelmed when we’re shopping, so we love this idea. And since we’re not getting married again, we’re going to need John’s help in making our decisions! Zucari Home and Garden |
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| 6 | Back in Action Last year, about this time, we were wondering how the flip we were going to maintain the super hiker body we’d built over the summer, despite the change of season. But as much as we put our brains to work, the whole “action” aspect of working out didn’t exactly come through. So, this fall we’re mapping out our options in detail (simply because, dangit, we want to fit into those skinny jeans again). We’ve done the gym thing, had our yogi phase and tried to keep the rain from ruining a morning run. So what next? The solution appeared before us like a gift from above. The new and oh-so-charming Poise Pilates is exactly what the doctor ordered. Instead of busting through a series of sit-ups, we worked our core with about as much mental stimulation imaginable, and in the end, decided we’ve been doing the ab thing all wrong. For years. With a gentle push from the very likeable Karena Kelly, we realized we’d finally found our match: the Reformer. Now that’s the action we’ve been waiting for. Poise Pilates |
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| 7 | The Recognition They Deserve It’s so nice when a local place we love gets a nod from somebody “important” outside the city limits. It’s nice to be noticed, and even nicer to be showered with praise. (Who doesn’t like praise?) So we were thrilled to hear—and this is a scoop, mind you—that 23Hoyt has made the coveted Best New Restaurants list in Esquire magazine. Not too shabby! And we’ve been fans since the beginning. We give 23Hoyt gift certificates as presents, we dine there, and it’s a regular happy hour destination. John Mariani of Esquire said “23Hoyt shares a kind of neighborhood charm with a new breed of sophisticated corner bistros, like the Spotted Pig in New York and Herbsaint in New Orleans.” He must be talking about the welcoming atmosphere, the delish cocktails, and the menu that pairs glamorous ingredients (chanterelles, prosciutto di Parma, sea scallops and grilled quail, for instance) with “comfort foods” like butternut squash gnocchi, Cascade Natural flat-iron steak, smoky bacon and parsnip-potato puree—not all together, of course. Now that they have the nod, you had better get there before everyone else does! 23Hoyt |
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| Event of the Week: | |||
Calling all brides! Charlotte’s Weddings is discounting select wedding dresses up to 50% off, from Oct. 18-27. Find amazing deals on more than 250 name-brand designer gowns! All sales are final; the item must be paid in full and taken with you at time of purchase. And you’ll still receive all the perks of Charlotte’s Weddings’ impeccable service—call now to set up an appointment for your own private dressing room and personal consultant. What: Amazing sale at Charlotte’s Weddings & More |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | All That Glitters is Gold We're very particular when it comes to jewelry—give us gold! There's something so decadent about it, and it looks great with our skin tone. So when we spied this gorgeous piece by Seattle jewelry designer Keri D'Angelo, it knocked our socks off. Three delicate golden chains on one side connect to a single chain by a trio of yellow sapphires at the base of the neck, and then languidly drapes downward. So sexy! |
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| 2 | Sack it To Me We love being green—after all, we’re Portlanders. That’s why we're so excited about our new favorite shopping-enhancement products—Envirosacks. Envirosacks are durable, reusable bags that come in stylish patterns, in designs from floral to mod. They're lightweight, waterproof and affordable (buy them individually or in a set of 5 for gift-giving). We were the belle of the grocery store when we pulled out the Amazonia print—not to mention we got a 25-cent refund for bringing our own bag! |
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| 3 | We're Riding with Lady Luck |
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| 4 | Wear Your Art on Your Sleeve Back in the day, our grandma had a button collection. These weren’t just any old leftover buttons—they were stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces that she lovingly stored away. The sad thing was that she never did anything useful with them, unlike the talented Sierra Bailey of Manic Trout. Bailey turns her finds into beautiful rings and doesn’t stop there, using materials ranging from Venetian glass to bottlecaps to create fabulous necklaces, earrings and more. Friends don’t let friends stash buttons—wear them instead! |
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| 5 | Beyond the Brady Bunch There was a time when we loved vintage polyester shirts. Sure, they were hot and sticky, but we were known for being able to spot the ones that edged across the line from ugly toward cool. Now that we’re no longer down with manmade fabrics, we apply our natural instincts to a new material—wallpaper. And there’s no better source for eye-catching patterns than this aptly named site. But just like the fashion, it’s better in small doses, so think twice before papering the entire basement. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | We’re Flipping for Flip Flops! Stock up on the world’s most comfortable flip flops—up to 40% off depending on how many you buy. It’s a great deal for you snowbirds or those of you who wear these all year round. City Girl has about 30 different colors and styles in stock, including some custom colors and kids’ versions. What: Havainas Sale at City Girl Boutique |
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| 2 | Warehouse Sale at Mr. Formal Your man needs to look better than average for special occasions, and now’s the time to do right by him. Take him to the sale so big it only happens once a year: Mr. Formal's Annual Warehouse Sale. Hundreds of new and used tuxedos, vests, shirts, and ties at unbelievably low prices, just in time for the holidays! |
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| 3 | Pillow Talk for Couples in Love Do you want to improve the communication with your man? Workshops for Women’s “Pillow Talk” seminar teaches you communication skills to build trust and deepen your relationship. Whether you’re married, dating, or just hooking up (wink, wink), you’ll discover how each of you expresses love, learn to say what you mean, and learn to hear what he means. What: “Pillow Talk” from Workshops for Women |
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| 4 | Hot Specials from Exhilarate Bodyworks You asked for more hot specials from Exhilarate Bodyworks, so Infrared Heat Body Wraps are only $39.95 for a limited time. Buy up to 10 and save $$! Burn 1,200 calories in a single 50-minute session! Infrared is healing—it relieves chronic pain, improves circulation, burns fat, and much more. These sessions make great gifts! Call for your appointment. |
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| 5 | New Salon Alert! Put down the mousse and mark your calendar for the Tribe Hair Studio open house. This progressive hair studio brings you inspiring stylists who travel the world for the latest trends and techniques. Meet them all at the open house, plus enjoy live music, local wines, art, fashion and food. Make your appointment now … they’re going to be busy! |
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| 6 | 3-Day Super Sale at Mink Boutique What: 3-Day Super Sale at Mink |
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| 7 | Artist's Reception: Diane Rios at Muse If you’re into printmaking and drawing, you’ll love the monotype prints and watercolors by Portland artist Diane Rios, now on display at Muse Art + Design, through Nov. 16. Rios is influenced by Toulouse-Lautrec, 1930s pen-and-ink illustrations by JR Niel, and Garth Williams’ drawings from the 1950s, and known throughout Oregon for her vintage illustration styles and spray-painted stencils. What: Diane Rios at Muse Art + Design |
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| 9 | here + now with Self Enhancement Inc. Help shape Portland’s future at here + now, Self Enhancement, Inc.’s latest blueprint for change, designed by Portland’s young, hip set and inspired by Portland’s next generation. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from some of Portland’s top restaurants, plus live music, a silent auction, a DJ’d after-hours party, and an evening of fun and education. Celebrate, envision, dream. What: here + now with SEI |
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| 10 | Ladies Who Launch Live! Dedicate a day to Ladies Who Launch and get totally inspired and motivated by listening to women who have launched a cable network, a lifestyle brand (Kathi O’Neil of Portland Picks!), the bible of restaurant guides and more. You’ll leave with referrals, new friends, great marketing tips, connections (or reunions!), plus a gift bag, lunch and spa services! What: Ladies Who Launch, Live! |
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| 13 | Bravo! Wedding Affair Are you tying the knot? Brides and their guests are invited to an intimate wedding event featuring more than 60 wedding services. The third annual Bravo! Wedding Affair will feature exciting trends, the latest fashions, and everything you need to have a memorable, meaningful wedding, from the centerpieces to the wedding cake, invitations, photographers, musicians and caterers! What: Bravo! Wedding Affair |
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| 14 | “State of our Children and Dyslexia” Did you know that 1 out of 7 children is dyslexic? The Boys & Girls Clubs will host the “State of our Children and Dyslexia” summit to educate concerned community leaders, educators and parents on how dyslexia and other learning differences affect children in Portland and throughout the nation. Local, state and national experts will be addressing this important challenge. What: “State of our Children and Dyslexia” |
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| 15 | Specials at West Linn MedSpa! Schedule one of the following treatments* and receive a complimentary Essential Facial! Botox Cosmetic, $10 per unit (regularly $15): Includes an in-depth consult with Dr. Norcom! Silkpeel DermalInfusion for $90 (regularly $155): Combines non-invasive exfoliation with deep delivery of skin-specific topical solutions to improve and revitalize skin. PPx Skin Rejuvenation: Buy one, get one free! (Regularly $500.) |
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| 16 | Planning an Event? See the Bravo! Event Guide come to life at the 13th Annual Showcase of the Hospitality and Meeting Industry. Eat, drink and mingle your way through Venue Row, listen to great music, and attend the high-energy seminar “20 Ideas in 20 Minutes”! Attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the 475-page 2008 Event & Party Resource Guide. What: Bravo! Live - A Showcase of the Hospitality & Meeting Industry |
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We’re launching Portland Picks for Men on October 26! Each issue will have all the insider info and great recommendations of “original” Portland Picks, but with guy-focused content and tips just for dudes. We’re going to send it to you first so you can check it out—so don’t be surprised when your Portland Picks gets a shot of testosterone that Friday! Be sure and email it to every guy you know who enjoys dining, drinking, shopping, recreating, relaxing and hanging out in our fair city. (Yep ... that just about covers everyone!) It’s free to subscribe to PPFM, and it’s going to be epic. Check it out now at www.PortlandPicksforMen.com. |
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