GOOD MORNING, SUNDAY! It's the perfect time to catch up on some of the great reporting and stories the Mercury churned out this week! (PRO TIP: If you despise being "the last to know," then be one of the first to know by signing up for Mercury newsletters! All the latest stories shipped directly to your email's in-box... and then... YOUR HEAD.)
• Following Anti-Trans Bills, Oregon Healthcare Providers Anticipate Surge in Patients
As anti-trans bills increasingly pop up across the country, Oregon doctors that provide gender affirming care are doubling down.
• The Trash Report: Good Shade, Bad Vibes, and Ugly Shoes
Perk up! It's the latest edition of Elinor Jones' new gossip column, THE TRASH REPORT. This week: Garbage King Ted Cruz, Portland homes for under half a mill, and a *chef's kiss* Craigslist missed connection!
• What to Do About Controversial Monuments? Portland Calls for Outside Help
Portland has put forward a call for project proposals from contractors interested in gathering community feedback on what should happen to the monuments toppled during 2020 protests—and what should become of other city monuments considered controversial.
• POP QUIZ PDX
This week in POP QUIZ PDX: Answer sassy trivia about local scandals, enter to win FREE PIZZA from our pals at Atlas Pizza, and (you know you want one) choose your new dad! 🧐
• Oregon Commission Unveils Plan for $412 Million in Federal Transportation Dollars
The Oregon Department of Transportation will use an influx of federal funding for road maintenance, safety upgrades, and highway projects.
• Savage Love: Only For Now
She's ready once again for a sexy, lustful relationship... but the current boy ain't cutting it. Should she cut and run or stay for what he does offer? Dan Savage gives some thoughtful advice in this week's SAVAGE LOVE!
• Portland's Housing Emergency Extended Three More Years
Portland City Council has extended its citywide housing state of emergency—first established in 2015—for three additional years. Why?
• Portland Street Response Begins Citywide Coverage
Portland Street Response, the city program that responds to 911 calls related to low-risk behavioral health issues, has formally expanded to respond to calls originating from across Portland.
• CINE / SEEN's First Year Spotlights Portland's Underrepresented Filmmakers and Comedians
“To be able to see the beauty, humanity, creativity, and excellence of brown, Black, and minority people in Portland,” filmmaker Ali Godil said about the inaugural CINE / SEEN festival. “It’s just really going to be a dope night.”
WOW, THAT IS A LOT OF GOOD READIN'. I hope you didn't have any other plans this weekend! Dig in, and remember: Producing all this hard work costs moolah—so please consider contributing to the Mercury to keep it all coming! Thanks!