It's simple, wristbands or stamps for those who show ID at the door who are 21+. Bartenders check every ID at concerts which have under 21'ers. OLCC makes better use of staff and volunteers who can do frequent checks during the events and if need be, fine the crap out of venues who get caught serving to minors.

I am in total agrement with the above folks who state the importance of involving Portland's under 21 group in the music scene. Every show I have attended in Portland which allowed under 21 crowd has good attendance from this group. Look at the show at City Hall yesterday, I would estimate a good 10% + of the attendees were under 21. Number guessing aside, point being, it was well attended by the under 21 crowd and all had a good time despite little marketing and a very non-hip spot for young folks.

They have bring a certain freshness to the music scene and who better to involve in the consumption of LOCAL prodcuts than energetic, plastic minded youth. I tried to embrace local music when I was younger but it was impossible.

However, for it to work, OLCC must allow more venues to serve alcohol AND allow anyone to attend.

* Is there are distinct Portland sound that’s coalescing?

Sorta -- creative, eclectic and fresh music. Whether that includes rock, jazz, pop, hip-hop or otherwise. In terms of marketing this sound, I haven't really seen an effective ploy other than pushing the music for what it is and stands for.

BTW -- Thanks Sam (and Tom, PDX Pop Now! folks..etc) for the concert yesterday. Great idea, great bands, and a great time!

MikeD