🐦‍⬛ The mystery of Portland’s winter crows

Food Stamps To Halt

If the federal government shutdown persists past the end of the month, 750,000 Oregonians — the majority of them seniors, children, or people with disabilities — will not receive their food stamps. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (known as SNAP) provides food to 42 million people nationwide. [OPB]

No Attitude Change, Despite TriMet Seeing Better Safety Numbers

Calls to police for help on TriMet fell by almost 50% over the last three years, but surveys continue to find riders and nonriders don’t feel safe. [OPB]

Catholic Church Paid for One Victim’s Psilocybin Journey

A Pennsylvania diocese paid $6,000 for one man’s psychedelic therapy in Oregon after he was abused by a priest. Chuck Lovett, 63, says he experienced healing during his psilocybin treatment: “It felt like the universe had me in its hands.” The Catholic Church has not been convinced to offer the treatment more regularly: “Please know that this was a one-time exception,” the diocese’s victim assistance coordinator said. [Willamette Week]

What Happens When 20,000 Crows End Up in Portland Each Fall

Every year around this time, more than 20,000 crows pour into downtown Portland. At night, they fill the trees, rooftops, and power lines. And honestly, we don’t fully know why they are here and where they come from. Though not an ornithologist, Gary Granger is one of the city’s leading crow experts, after he spent nearly a decade walking the streets at night, counting crows block by block. He shares what he’s learned, how the city’s trying to manage them, and why their nightly arrival is one of Portland’s most fascinating winter rituals.