Loon Bar Now Pouring on SE Division | Renata Holds Benefit for Sommelier Chris Wright

SOUTHEAST—Beloved Renata sommelier Chris Wright has been diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer, and the community is rallying to honor Wright's legacy, friendship, and hard work, and to raise funds for Wright and his life companion, Julia. Renata will hold a special dinner, Chuck It on the Coals, on April 6, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. (reserve a seat here or by calling 503-954-2708), and you can donate here to the crowdsourcing campaign. Renata owner Sandra Arnerich says the dinner will feature some items cooked directly on coals. "We will also have friends like PDX Wine and Bow & Arrow donate wine for the evening," she says. [EaterWire]

DIVISION—Loon, a new "neighborhood" bar, has opened at 2865 SE Division St. in the location once slated to become Kim Jong Grillin's Bhap Sang. Loon serves the typical line-up of taps and cocktails, and you'll also find a small menu of burgers, tacos, and sandwiches—even chicken noodle soup. The decor includes raw wood tones, a piano, and a few guitars, and popular television—from mini series to basketball—is projected on the wall. [EaterWire]

PEARL—This opportunity is for members of the hospitality industry only, but it's so unique we couldn't help sharing the news: Learn how using new and used cooperage affects aged spirits at a free seminar with Ransom Spirit's Tad Seestedt in the Teardrop Lounge on April 18, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Ransom Wine & Spirits is famous for its hands-on approach to distilling, and seats are limited. RSVP to melibea@watershedcom.com. Just looking to taste through the spirits? Taste the products of the Ransom, Vivacity, and Elixir brands from 1:30 to 3 p.m. No RSVP required. [EaterWire]