Originally published in the Mazama Bulletin—view the full September 2019 issue.
The afternoon heat didn’t stop 250-300 people (and some pets) from convening at the MMC on July 28 to celebrate our 125th anniversary. The 125th Block Party and Open House featured food, fun, and educational opportunities for members, their families, and the community. With the street out front of the MMC closed to traffic, attendees could mingle freely through display booths and activities before heading inside for more.
Kids explored their artistic side with nature-themed crafts and played games in the sun. Those wanting some lunch enjoyed delicious food prepared by a few of the city’s food trucks, and adults caught up with friends old and new in the MMC’s side yard beer garden. Booths provided opportunities to send a postcard to your political representative (with help from the Conservation Committee), pick up a Bulletin, play cornhole while learning about the Mountain Shop’s new location, and more.
Inside the MMC, attendees could practice their knot skills while watching others climb the rock and “ice” walls, some for the first time. Smiles and cheers abounded as kids and kids at heart made it to the top all around the auditorium. Mazamas shared anecdotes of their most memorable moments in the mountains and beyond at the Story Booth in the lobby. Downstairs, the history of the Mazamas and mountaineering in the Pacific Northwest was on display, with artifacts and photographs from the Mazama Historical Collections on exhibit. Library and Historical Collections Manager Mathew Brock was on hand to answer questions and provide insight on these amazing pieces of Mazama history.
For those who wanted to get some exercise, a ramble to Mt. Tabor or Laurelhurst Park was an option, or kids could participate in Adventure WILD activities. And let’s not forget the crowd favorite – a slice of the huge Mazama 125th Anniversary cake and accompanying acknowledgements, in which Acting Executive Director Sarah Bradham honored our long history while highlighting where the organization is headed.
Here’s to another 125 years!
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