good people share: 0520
dear good people,
this month, we’ll likely have to decide stuff with consequences — if/when to see loved ones and how to adjust to new routines.
all along, there have been moments when i’ve questioned myself for not dedicating more time to finding a new hobby, side-hustle and/or habit. granted, that sounds ridiculous, especially for those friends/family who have more on their plate now or have lost their primary-hustle, but six-plus weeks into this, i’ve now become slightly overwhelmed by the amount of stuff we could be doing, consuming, baking and/or exploring from our couch. while these are unusual times, we’re surrounded by (mostly simple) examples of people working together, strengthening relationships, practicing “constructive solitude" and looking out for the greater good. let’s just keep that up.
thanks for spreading the word about this monthly newsletter. feel free to send me names to add to the distribution list and please let me know if you have suggestions for upcoming concerts or events. on the other hand, just reply if you would like to unsubscribe.
music share
playlists are intended for a spectrum of surroundings and moods.
good people music share (updated on the first day of every month)
playlists from previous months can found in the archives.
notable clicks
considering the times, here are some highlights from the world-wide-web that keep me believing in the qi of the world.
read
might as well build syrup-soaked structures.
strava power users are a special bunch.
the word “curate” comes from the latin “curatus,” the past participle of “curare,” which means “to take care of.”
u.s. cities already taking notes.
more and more complete streets coming online.
my fingers are glad this debate is finally over.
one space vs. two is finally resolved.
free support from a crisis counselor at your fingertips.
“we want to be where you are. we want to make it as easy as possible for people who are in pain to get help.”
hype guy for those already hyped.
“show up and show out.”
watch
soothing sonnets from captain picard.
shakespeare finally makes sense.
but will not disclose how long I watched this (calming) live-stream (sound on for full experience).
it’s gotta be august by now.
the best (portland produced) content for curious kiddos.
bless up to all the parents out there.
so much for the traditions like making a list on paper or traveling.
one thing that should continue post pandemic.
hysterical, daily musings from leslie jordan.
these festivals have always been on my bucket list.
20 international film festivals coming together for ten days.
out-and-about-in-pdx
there’s something cool about being informed.
while “out-and-about-in-pdx” isn’t possible right now, you can still embody the “good people” spirit from home.
don’t get me wrong, the presidential election is epically important (understatement?), but don’t snooze on your local and state races. social distancing hasn’t prevented people from dropping lawn signs out front.
hat tip to washington, oregon, utah, colorado and hawaii for making mail the default voting method, but it remains messy.
closer to home, learn more about the primary election candidates who are sending you mailers and review this quick guide to voting in the metro.
this newsletter is sensitive to politics, but if you live in portland metro area, please consider supporting 1) the “here together” ballot measure for homeless services and 2) candidates (kate lieber [senate district 14) and tera hurst [city council position 2) who i’m lucky to know and support.
there are a slew of other really strong candidates on the ballot (that you should have received and need to mail by may 14).
notable upcoming PDX shows//events
i’ve highlighted my monthly picks. give them a listen/look and consider going to the show/event. maybe we’ll see each other there. and for those not living in portland, keep an eye on these artists since many of them are on tour.
one of the pillars of this newsletter is in limbo right now, here are some ways to get closer to music.
write in support of independent venues (and the recently formed coalition), “which are in great risk due to COVID closures that are longer than other industries. many venues face permanent closure, which would be a tragic loss of culture, community, and economic activity.”
make a playlist. this might be the most accurate how-to ever.
buy a benefit compilation album of PDX musicians.
follow artists who are trying new ways to engage fans.
stream the best old concerts, pretend upcoming festivals are happening, or mark your calendar at-home sessions (bookmark: npr, songkick).
cheer for a tie between in this r&b battle.
start planning your first concert outfit.
go to the club.
and please let me know if you’ve found other stuff.