
City Cast Portland
💰 How the DMV makes millions off your personal data
August 13, 2025 · — Adrian González
Good morning! I know we’ve been sweating it out during the heat wave this week, but there’s much cooler weather ahead of us the rest of the week. 😎

What's DC Talking About
Oregon Braces for Billions in Federal Cuts
The state could lose more than $15 billion in federal funding under the Republican budget bill passed last month. According to an analysis from Gov. Tina Kotek’s office, some $11.7 billion of that funding is for health care through the Oregon Health Plan, with another $3 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP). [OPB]
- Related: From fishing boats to hospitals, how Oregon's feeling the federal squeeze. [City Cast Portland 🎧]
The Thorns’ Scorching Hot Fandom
Nearly 22,000 fans were at Providence Park on Sunday to watch the Portland Thorns face off against the Seattle Reign, despite mid-90-degree temperatures. Unsurprisingly, the Thorns have the highest average attendance this year in the entire National Women’s Soccer League. [Willamette Week]
For Sale: Your Driving Record
The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles has made more than $60 million since 2020 selling drivers’ personal information and driving records to “bulk buyers." Federal and state law allow for DMV data to be sold to qualified buyers — like insurance companies and private investigators — but some privacy advocates say the industry lacks transparency. [KATU]

Tips for Late Summer Backpacking
Living in the Pacific Northwest means the wilderness is never far away, but the idea of a multi-day hiking and camping trip can be intimidating for many. One Portlander making backpacking accessible is guide Karrie Carnes, a volunteer ambassador for Women Who Explore, who has a wealth of wisdom for first-time backpackers looking to start their journey. [City Cast Portland 🎧]

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What To Do
Wednesday, Aug. 13
- 🎵 Music on Main: Jujuba | Downtown
- 🎵 24 Corde Ensemble | Barrel Room (Old Town)
- 🎻 Portland Opera a la Cart | Pioneer Courthouse Square
- 🍔 The Portland Mercury's Burger Week | Various locations
- 🚲 Bike to Swim in the Willamette River | Gorges Beer Co. (Buckman neighborhood)
- 🥽 Duckworth Summer Swim | Eastbank Esplanade
Thursday, Aug. 14
- 🎵 Kali Uchis | Moda Center
- 🍔 The Portland Mercury's Burger Week | Various locations
- 🎬 Barbie (with Spanish subtitles) | Irving Park
- 🚲 Bike Summer: Trader Joe's Ride | Oregon Park
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