Hey, there! I’m a snarky 40-something single mother who still tries to think she’s cool and hip. That means I try to take in the local music scene from time to time (even if my kids don’t think my wardrobe passes muster…).

Last night, that included seeing the Cake concert via 94.7 ^[1] at the Crystal Ballroom (I know, I know – I’m so out of their demographic it’s not funny, but humor me here, ok??)

And I discovered just why I like Portland so much. People here (well, most people, anyway) are just so civilized.

See, I’m short. 5′ 1 1/2″, to be exact. Trying to see at concerts is challenging. And of course, people all like to crowd to the front to see – which means I usually end up looking at the back of someone’s head, or run the risk of getting beverages dripped on my own head.

But last night, several people did what they could to try and help me see – from asking the crushers to stop moving in front of me to finding me optimal sight lines.

And that’s why I love PDX. Even though we’re all trying to get ahead, there’s room to help the person next to you.

What are your favorite places to see music locally? And what do you love (or hate) about local music venues?

I’ve a looonng kid-free weekend coming up, and need suggestions!

(You’ll also find me over at My Whim is Law ^[2]…)