Check out this huge, rare, smelly flower

More Troubles at Portland Street Response

The program manager for Portland Street Response has resigned. It’s the latest sign of turmoil at a program designed to avoid sending law enforcement to respond to calls they’re not needed for. Robyn Burek, who has headed up the initiative since its founding in 2020, announced to staff she’s taking another job at the city. [Willamette Week]

Gov. Kotek Appoints New Secretary of State

Gov. Tina Kotek chose former city and county auditor LaVonne Griffin-Valade to serve out Shemia Fagan’s term as secretary of state. Fagan resigned and faces federal and state investigations over a six-figure consulting contract she had with a cannabis company. Kotek’s choice not to pick a politician or political ally is notable because the secretary of state is Oregon’s the second-highest ranking elected official. Griffin-Valade is not expected to run for reelection. [Oregonian]

Wasps to Kill Invasive Pests

Emerald ash borers, invasive pests that kill off ash trees, were found last year for the first time in a West Coast state. Now Oregon is deploying non-stinging wasps that prey on the emerald ash borers in hopes of fighting the infestation before it spreads. [KOIN]

Oregon Berry Power

Over 15 varieties of strawberries were invented in Oregon. And from May through September, the state becomes the No. 4 top-growing region for strawberries in the country. [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Pedro the Lion | Thursday | 8 p.m.

The Seattle-based alternative indie rocker, who grew up in Arizona, is playing some old fan favorites this tour. [$43.76, Buckman]

Storm Large Burlesque Big Band | Friday | 9 p.m.

Portland-based singer Storm Large often performs with Pink Martini, but this time she’s doing a solo show and it’s unlike any of her previous incarnations. [$55+, Downtown]

Portland Craft Beer Festival | Friday - Sunday | Noon

Taste ten of the city’s craft offerings with admission. Music, food, and games are part of the fun. [$40, Pearl District]

Taste Testing Oregon’s Sweetest Strawberries

Oregon may not have the most strawberries, though we do place fourth among top growing regions during the warmest six months of the year. But we do have the best. Today on City Cast Portland, host Claudia Meza, along with lead producer John Notarianni and OPB “All Things Considered” host and “Superabundant” producer Crystal Ligori, taste-test some local fruit to find out what makes the Oregon strawberry so special.