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.)
• Trail Blazers' Head Coach Chauncey Billups Arrested in Connection to Mafia-Backed Illegal Gambling
Head Coach of the Portland Trail Blazers Chauncey Billups was arrested this week in connection with Mafia-backed illegal gambling. What does this mean for the future of the franchise and the young Blazers roster?
In this week's trivia challenge: a honkin' HUGE No Kings march, paddling around in moist pumpkins, and look who's throwing a party in ICE town! (See how well YOU score!) 🤓
• The 'Big Beautiful Bill' is Gutting Oregon’s SNAP Benefits
This month, in accordance with federal rules, Oregon will start adopting new eligibility criteria for SNAP that will likely impact at least 313,000 people. On top of that, current recipients may not get their benefits at all in November due to a prolonged government shutdown.
• November’s Special Election Will Determine the Future of Portland Parks
Portland’s parks and natural areas are integral to the city’s identity, but the city’s parks system faces major financial challenges. In a November special election, Portland voters will be asked to approve a new, five-year levy to stop the bleeding and keep basic parks services afloat.
This just in: It's hard to talk to strangers! However, two Portland singles events are opening doors and minds, and helping people find love, friendship, and hookups.
What does AI mean for the future of hip-hop? Donovan Scribes tackles this question (and how it relates to Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and the 2012 hologram performance of Tupac Shakur) in the latest, excellent edition of his new column, The Black Byline.
Are you here in Portland? Then check out Hear In Portland! Our fortnightly column is known for dropping science on those in need of knowing what's really good in RIP City when it comes to hip-hop, soul, funk, R&B, and more! 📢
• Photo Essay: Tens of Thousands March in Portland’s No Kings Demonstration
Tens of thousands attended last weekend's No Kings march in Portland. The Mercury sent Taylor Griggs and photojournalist Corbin Smith to cover the massive demonstration, who returned with an essay documenting the voices, faces, and frogs fighting against authoritarianism.
• What To Flirt To, What To Cry to at QDoc 2025
At Cinema 21 this weekend, Portland's QDoc Film Festival offers a full-on smorgasbord of cool/cute messes, heartwarming triumphs, and a rare chance to learn more about the origins of house music.
• Theater Review: In Dancing on the Sabbath, the Viewer Is the Villain
Shaking the Tree Theatre's latest twist on a traditional fairy tale casts its audience in a surveillance role.
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!
