Hello Portland. DogsBody asks for aid!

[DogsBody]

I am reposting this as a new thread to reflect all that i need to ask:
I'm up in Vancouver, BC.
I am looking for info regarding "things to do/places to visit" when I, and some friends come down there to see your fair City in May/June (still working that out).
-Looks like June would be the best month, eh? Pedalpalooza, eh?
I would love input on Hostels (there's one close to the Amtrak Station yes?); places for a Bike-Culture Nut to visit (Eg. the HUB); and any event advice that would help us plan our trip.
We are also thinking about biking up the Columbia River Gorge:
I've been hearing rumours through "Bike Forums" that the old highway up through the Columbia River Gorge might have an issue with a Bike Terrorist distributing tacks.
Any truth to this?
-Is the old highway the best route?