City Cast Portland
❓A ‘nightmare’ and a 'warzone’?
October 1, 2025 · — Rachel Monahan
Good morning, Portland! Earlier this week, I took a long walk home instead of hailing a Lyft. It was 7 p.m. and getting dark, but I wanted some exercise.
And … it was so peaceful and pleasant.
The thought occurred a few times: I felt lucky to have this much safety and beauty. I wish this for the people of the world whose neighborhoods are actually truly devastated by war.
⬇️ More on the (un)presidential insults directed at Portland right now below, but before we get to that, our fall membership drive continues:
City Cast Portland exists to be a good neighbor in our community. We help you do the same by keeping you informed and paying attention to what’s happening in local news. When you become a Neighbor, you’re helping sustain journalism that keeps our city connected.
What's CITY Talking About?
Rainy Fall Weather Has Arrived
The fall weather has clearly started — with rain expected the next couple days. Good news for outdoor activities this weekend: It may be sunny — or at least dry by then. [KOIN]
Budget Crunch for 2027?
School districts and state agencies may be facing another budget crunch in July of 2027, as the state projects that they will need to increase pension contributions by an average of 20%. The final number won’t be available till then the end of the year for the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System. The current projection is a $1.6 billion increase — and comes on top of the $1.8 billion increase for the current biennium. [Oregonian]
More Evidence for Mushroom Therapy
A new study of psychedelic mushroom treatment in a “real world” setting showed it was effective at treating depression and anxiety. Bend-based Bendable Therapy enrolled 88 people who received psilocybin and found they showed a marked benefit 30 days after treatment — a phenomenon they attributed to the integration counseling that’s part of Oregon’s legal psychedelic program. [Willamette Week]
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What To Do
Wednesday, Oct. 1
- 🎥 Portland Latin American Film Festival: Mazel Tov | Hollywood Theatre
- 🎥 Portland Film Festival | Center for Native Arts and Cultures (Central Eastside)
- 📚 Kelsea Yu: Demon Song | Always Here Bookstore (Humboldt)
- 🎵 Stevie Nicks | Moda Center
😦 Wow! A big thank you to our newest City Cast Portland Neighbors who all joined earlier this week: Laura J., Audrianna G., Jessica C., Karen M.-A., Barbi W., Denise N., Katie W., Kat S., Laureen F., Diana W., Stephen G., Hannah N., Jess J., and Lourdes V.
While our city is facing a difficult moment, it’s heartwarming to have your support.
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