How to compost your tree 🎄

Record Unhoused Deaths Reported Last Year

A record number of unhoused people died in Multnomah County in 2022 — 315, up 63% over the previous year. Fentanyl killed 91 people, compared with just four in 2020. Overall in 2022, 85% of the deaths were drug overdoses. Also, notably, 42 of the deaths were homicides — almost a quarter of the county’s homicides. [Oregonian]

Students Missing School

Roughly 20% of Portland Public School students were absent on Monday, with the number expected to rise all week. The week was originally slated as winter break but is now being used to make up days lost to the strike. [OPB]

Oregon Lost Population Again

Oregon’s population declined in the year ending July 1, 2023, according to U.S. Census data figures released this week. It’s the second year in a row that the state has lost people. An aging population and low birth rate mean that Oregon’s population (and economic) growth depends on people moving into the state. [Oregonian]

2023 in Review

It’s time for a look back at the biggest stories, best eats, and most memorable events of the year. [City Cast Portland 🎧]

The Best (and Worst) of Portland in 2023

Before we ring in 2024, we want to take a moment to reflect on what’s happened in our city this year. Producers John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni join host Claudia Meza to discuss the best and worst of the past 12 months — from notable local headlines to new bars and restaurants, and everything in between.