Why that Alaska pilot completely lost it

Alaska Airlines Pilot Tells All

The Alaska Airlines pilot who attempted to crash a plane while riding as a passenger likely had been suffering from depression. Airline regulations have stigmatized seeking help, by grounding pilots who take some depression medications. The case also offers a potential warning on psychedelics: Joseph Emerson blames his actions on a psychedelic-induced delusion after taking mushrooms. That’s a potential risk for people who are vulnerable to a psychotic disorder. [New York Times]

Nuclear Downsizing

A Portland nuclear power company has canceled its project to build the country’s first small modular nuclear reactor in Idaho. NuScale has the only approved federally certified design for such reactors. The technology, developed at Oregon State University, is heralded as a potential game changer in the effort to move away from fossil fuels. [OPB, Oregonian 🔒]

• Related: Wait, there’s a nuclear reactor company in Portland? [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Not to Be Released From Jail

The Multnomah County Circuit Court is asking a federal judge to clarify an order on releasing inmates who lack public defenders. According to the state court, the order should be revised to specify that inmates can’t fire their lawyer as a get-out-of-jail card. It also should exempt those accused of “crimes of murder and aggravated murder.” Currently, the Multnomah County Circuit Court believes just two county defendants will be eligible for release under the order. [Willamette Week]

🩰 The Hip Hop Nutcracker | Tuesday | 7:30 p.m.

The holiday season kicks off with the spectacle of hip-hop dance moves set to Tchaikovsky’s classical music. [$51.75+, Downtown]

🦃 Turkey Trot At The Zoo | Nov. 23 | 7:30 a.m.

Plan ahead to get moving before the feasting. This is a 4-mile run, with registration fees benefiting the Oregon Zoo. Kids are welcome. [$37, Washington Park]

🦃 Tofurky Trot 2023 | Nov. 23 | 9 a.m.

Here’s another option, billed as animal-friendly, that benefits various local farm sanctuaries. Run a 5K (3.1 miles). It’s also family-friendly. [$25+, Sellwood]

Wait, There’s a Nuclear Reactor Company in Portland?

Portland-based NuScale Power has been leading the way for a new generation of nuclear power plants, called small modular nuclear reactors. Last week, the company was in the headlines because it called off plans to build those reactors in Idaho. But what exactly does NuScale intend to do? And why was this news such a big deal? We’re listening back to a conversation with Reuters energy and environment correspondent Tim Gardner about NuScale’s push for a nuclear future.