By John McSherry
S ummer is a time to get outside, enjoy the sun, walk around, and meet with neighbors. When you are out exploring this June, a great spot to venture to is Concordia Commons. Concordia Commons is a City of Portland public street plaza maintained by the Bureau of Transportation in partnership with the Concordia Neighborhood Association (CNA). It is located at NE 30th and Killingsworth. Through CNA’s Friends of the Commons committee, we plan, sponsor and promote free fun activities and events all summer long. Here’s what’s on tap this month:
Live Music Sundays at the Commons
From 4 – 6pm through August
Bookings are still in progress. Scheduled at this time are: June 1st – Steve Cheseborough – acoustic country blues of the 1920s and ’30s, June 15th – Julie and the Astronauts – Alt- Americana originals mixed with rare musical treasures soaked in hot country licks and June 22nd – The Lawrence Jazz Duo – Instrumental jazz, pop, bossa nova, and swing.
Game Night at Concordia Commons
Every Thursday from 5 – 7 pm through August
We have over 50 games for a wide range of ages and abilities including Scrabble, strategy games, cooperative games, and others. Come have fun with your neighbors.
Vivid Memories: A Slide Film Showcase
Saturday, June 14th from 8 – 10 pm.
Mia Rose of forage films will be presenting a projected art show featuring five Portland photographers in celebration of color reversal film. While you are there, check out the Slide-o-matic mystery slide vending machine.
Everything in the Commons is always free. Check our website for updates on what is happening.
In addition, we love it when other people hold events at Concordia Commons. It is free to use but the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) must approve your application. Learn how to apply.
Another free ongoing event is Loose Threads, a drop-in workshop every Friday from 2 – 5 pm in the Community Room at Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave.) Bring your knitting or crochet projects from home to work on, or make a felt project such as a plant pick, eyeglass case, pansy boutonniere, or tiny, whimsical brooch. Materials provided; one project per participant. For more information, contact CNA Stitching Coach Caprice Lawless at (720) 939-3094.
Save the date for Concordia Neighbors Night Out at University of Oregon (2800 NE Liberty St.) on Thursday, August 7th from 6 – 8 pm. It will be be our 50th Anniversary celebration of the Concordia Neighborhood Association (CNA) and also our first annual family friendly concert on the lawn amphitheater. Family friendly activities will include face painting and lawn games. Additionally, U of O will have a Community Open House with information and tours of buildings. Come, bring a picnic, a blanket or lawn chairs, and join our neighborhood night out.
Also, consider signing up to help host our Thursday game nights or Sunday Fun in the Commons by contacting Kepper Petzing at karenpetzing@gmail.com.
I hope to see you there!
John McSherry, Vice Chair
John McSherry lives on 29th Avenue and serves on the CNA board and media team. When not spending time with his family, John loves playing music, recreating on the water, and volunteering. He can be reached at AL3@concordiapdx.org.