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.)

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• How a Routine City Budget Review Forced Portland Leaders to Face Their Commitment to Social Justice

Black community leaders say a failed proposal to divert funds away from a racial justice organization is one of many reasons Portlanders are losing trust in city government.

• POP QUIZ PDX!

Thinking caps on: This week's sassy-ass trivia includes local rich people problems, politicians who think you're stupid, and your billionaire best friend is buying YOU a *very* expensive present! 🎁🤔🤑

• Normandale Park Shooter Sentenced to Life in Prison

Survivors and friends of a woman killed in 2022 while aiding with a nearby protest erupted in fury during a sentencing hearing for shooter Benjamin Smith.

• Don't Miss the Mercury's New Live Comedy Game Show, TWO EVILS with Arlo & Kate!

Ready for a little EEEEVIL? Then don't miss the Mercury's new comedy game show, TWO EVILS with Arlo Weierhauser and Kate Murphy! It's audience vs. special guest comedian Amy Miller in a hilarious battle for good vs. evil! 👹

• Theater Review: Nikki Kuhnhausen Was an American Girl

A new play from Mikki Gillette, "American Girl" draws from deep conversations with Nikki Kuhnhausen’s mother to show her teenager daughter's real life.

• THE TRASH REPORT

Let's go, trash pandas! 🦝 It's time for THE TRASH REPORT. This week: T-Swift in Florida, Joe Biden NOT in Florida, and an explosion of garbage... from Florida!

• HEAR IN PORTLAND

This week in music news: Silvertongue Sunday Sessions alert, and if you're only vibing to the "4Eva" video, you're missing out on a second Animé verse.

• Students Walk Out Over Alleged Treatment of Black Teachers at North Portland Middle School

Students walked out and parents are raising alarms over the alleged mistreatment of Black teachers and inappropriate behavior from a vice principal at North Portland’s Ockley Green Middle School.

• Let's Celebrate! 🎉 The Mercury's PIZZA WEEK is Happening NOW!

Let the bells ring and confetti fall... the Mercury's PIZZA WEEK is happening NOW! Delicious, creative slices from the city's best pizza tossers—and only $3 each! 🍕

• Live Show Review: Haley Heynderickx Debuted New Songs at Her Recent Solo Show

Are you eagerly awaiting new work from Portland-based singer-songwriter Haley Heynderickx? She played new songs at her recent solo show. Here's what we noticed.

• SAVAGE LOVE

This week: Hubby's into diaper play; wifey is losing her shit. Can this mind be saved? 

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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!