🥤 Do you know our state beverage?

Ted’s In Charge

Starting July 1, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler says he’s taking control of all city bureaus, which will be managed by Michael Jordan, Portland’s new interim city administrator. This change comes six months ahead of the city’s shift to a new voter-approved form of government in January. It’s a significant change from the current structure, where bureau oversight is divided among City Council members. [OPB]

Oregon Farmland Gets Pricey

The estimated value of Oregon farmland grew by 23% from 2017 to 2022, according to recent USDA Census of Agriculture data. In the same timeframe, the amount of available farmland declined slightly. It’s more than triple the growth in value nationwide. The average farm value is now about $3,700 per acre, with values in the Willamette Valley averaging an eye-watering $20,000 per acre. [Oregon Capitol Chronicle]

It’s Nearly Swimming Season

This Thursday is officially the first day of summer, and it’s also the day many of Portland’s public pools will open for the year. Swimmers in Montavilla will have to wait a bit longer though — the Montavilla Outdoor Pool will be closed until mid-July, as the city repairs the pool’s plumbing system. [Oregonian]

• Related: How about swimming in the Willamette River instead? [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Last week, Hey Portland featured a guide to Southeast Division Street. Here are some reader favorites from that neighborhood:

• “At the corner of Division and 35th you’ll find Division St. Wine, Atlas Pizza, and Cat’s Paw. I don’t need to go anywhere else.” — Brian Catterson
• “Langlitz Leather. An institution! Since ... middle of last century. Don't miss the used rack if you're bargain hunting. If it's still there...” — Hester Schell

The City Cast Portland podcast recently spoke with self-proclaimed “thrift-store junky” and local comedian, Jay Flewelling, about his tips for local thrifting. One of his favorites is William Temple House in northwest Portland. Here’s more from a reader who’s also a fan of the shop:

• “With regards to your good thrift store write up, I would love for you to acknowledge and illuminate a positive for buying at WTH. They do amazing work in our community with their mental health services and food pantry. Purchasing from WTH is also helping them give back to our community. It's not lining the pockets of big CEOs of Goodwill industries.” — Michelle Matthews

A Guide To Making Friends in Portland (As An Adult)

Summer is approaching, and in a city that rains most of the year, now’s the time to get out there and maybe even make some new friends. But as an adult, that can feel daunting — especially if you’re not excited by the usual late-night spots for mingling like bars and music venues. So where do you start? We asked self-described friend-for-hire and Throw Snakes Tour founder and guide Dresden De Vera his best tips for meeting people.