🌋 How well do you know Oregon volcanoes?

Buying Bus and Plane Tickets to End Homelessness

Mayor Keith Wilson’s effort to end homelessness on city streets includes a push to reunite people living outside with family from out-of-state. So far this year, Portland has paid to send 53 people home — with a goal to increase that to around 700 next year. [Willamette Week]

• Related: The city says it’s an effective practice borrowed from other cities, but advocates point out the city isn’t using best practices, like keeping in touch to make sure people remain housed when they head home. [Willamette Week]

Trees Are Still Dying From 2020 Labor Day Fires

The amount of forest that initially survived 2020’s massive fires has now dropped by 8.5%. That means it will be harder for the forest to reseed and grow back without human intervention. [OPB]

• Key stat: A million acres of Oregon and Washington burned during 2020’s Labor Day fires. [OPB]

No Indication Federal Troops Are Headed Here

Seeking to allay current concerns, Gov. Tina Kotek says that despite the threats, there’s no evidence of National Guard troops being deployed to Oregon. But Kotek is among the Democratic governors sounding the alarm over Trump’s use of Guard troops in D.C. and Los Angeles. [KGW]

• Related: Idaho has deployed its Guard troops — but only within the state — to help with Pres. Trump’s immigration enforcement and crime prevention efforts. [KGW]

The Pacific Northwest landscape draws its dramatic beauty from volcanic peaks. They haven’t posed an imminent danger for more than 40 years, when Mt. Saint Helens erupted. But how well do you know our potentially explosive peaks? (The question below links to a longer quiz.)

Each week, we’re hearing about favorite local spots and organizations from City Cast Portland Neighbors. It’s a member benefit, but it’s also a great way to get to know our city:

• Hacienda CDC | “Hacienda CDC (and the Portland Mercado, which it runs) has a major impact on our city with support for housing and small businesses.” — Michael S.
• El Campesino | South Tabor | “A family-owned and run grocery store that’s easy to miss when speeding along Powell Blvd. People flock from as far away as Eugene and Vancouver to pick up specialty canned and dry goods from south of the U.S. border and beyond. There’s also fresh produce and meats. And takeout: come for the tortilla chips (the best around) and leave with delicious carnitas, rice, beans, birria, and weekend BBQ chicken. And the Mexican pastries baked fresh each day are happy sugar. :)” — Cathy K.
• The St. Johns Boosters | Laura S.

Become a City Cast Portland Neighbor today to share your own shoutout in this newsletter and on the podcast!