It’s dark in the park

Jefferson High School Demo?

Hundreds of community members told Portland Public Schools they support demolishing the facade of Jefferson High School in order for students to stay on campus during a slated renovation of the building. Students and parents had objected to a plan to send the school to the Marshall High School campus, an 11-mile commute, during renovations. A demolition would allow for a new building to be built on the campus while students use the old building, an approach the district used for Lincoln High School. [Oregonian]

Two Out for Congressional Run

In a closely watched May primary to replace U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer, two possible candidates have ruled out a run: former Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury and state Rep. Travis Nelson (D-Portland). Another two candidates are still weighing their options: state Reps. Maxine Dexter and Thuy Tran, both Democrats from Portland. So far, former Multnomah County Commissioner Susheela Jayapal and Gresham City Councilor Eddy Morales have entered the race. [Willamette Week]

Lights Still Out at Irving Park

Portland Parks and Recreation’s decision to rip out flawed light poles without a replacement has left Irving Park in darkness. After community blowback, the bureau stopped ripping out the light fixtures in other parks and instead posted warnings. Colonel Summers Park has now received replacement fixtures, and Sellwood Riverfront Park should have theirs by Thanksgiving. Replacements at Irving Park, where 73 out of the 78 light poles were removed, may begin by month's end, weather permitting. [KOIN]

Doubtful Crime Numbers

This week’s Portland news includes questions about the city’s crime rate data, the Portland Police Bureau’s new independent monitor, and the utility rate hike. [City Cast Portland 🎧]

🎭 Outta Hand Puppet Slam | Friday and Saturday | 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Not suitable for children, this show is a series of short-form puppetry in a range of styles, including hand, rod, tabletop, humanette, and musical improv. [$16.60, Richmond]

🎶 Ms. Lauryn Hill | Friday | 8 p.m.

It’s the 25th-anniversary tour of “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” [$84.95+, Lloyd District]

🌟 Desi Diwali Dance Party: Festival of Lights | Friday | 9 p.m.

Celebrate India's Festival of Lights with DJ Prashant and a Bollywoods hits dance party. [$20.82+, West End]

🇺🇸 Veterans Day Parade | Saturday | 10 a.m.

Celebrate the men and women who have served in the armed forces. [Free, King/Humboldt]

🍴 Gobble Up Portland | Saturday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Prepare for the holiday and sample the wares of 100+ local food and beverage vendors. [Free, Buckman]

🧀 Portland Cheese and Meat Festival | Saturday | Noon - 6 p.m.

Eat and drink your way through local and international fine cheese, liquors, and other treats. [$79.73+, Lloyd District]

🎙️ Mortified | Saturday | 9 p.m.

Enjoy fellow Portlanders’ tales of deep embarrassment and shame. The early show has already sold out. [$25+, Concordia]

🎤 Tom Waits Tribute Experience: The Heart of Saturday Night | Sunday | 7 p.m.

The evening will call forth the lyrics, jazz, blues, and mambo of the musical icon, with performances by Kris Deelane, Dan Gildea, Bre Gregg, Jet Black Pearl, Paul K Ward, Ed Pierce, Jason Wells, and James Latham. [$30.50+, Concordia]

🌍 Climate Resilience Circle | Sunday | 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

This gathering is designed to support anyone who works in, volunteers for, or is otherwise impacted by the climate crisis. [$10 Suggest Donation, Buckman]

🍺🎄 Brew Lights | Nov. 17 | 5 p.m.

Plan ahead and enjoy a kid-free night with wild animals and pints from 55 breweries. There’ll also be lots and lots of Christmas lights. [$55, Oregon Zoo]

New Police Oversight, PGE’s Major Price Hike, and Is Crime Really Down?

For this week’s news round-up, there are questions about the city’s crime rate data. The Portland Police Bureau has a new independent monitor. And Portland General Electric’s rate hike (yet again). Portland Business Journal reporter Malia Spencer joins City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza and executive producer John Notarianni.