
City Cast Portland
Why Federal Cuts to SNAP Hit Oregon Hard
November 4, 2025 · — Rachel Monahan
Good morning! ✈️ PDX is the best — beloved by Portland and also officially ranked the top U.S. airport. But the City Cast Portland podcast (with an assist from newsletter readers) has some tips for how to enjoy it even more — where to park, eat, and chill out before you board your next flight.


What's DC Talking About
Why SNAP Cuts Hit Oregon Hard
An analysis of states’ data by the progressive think tank Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that Oregon has the third-highest percentage of its population on SNAP. It’s not because the poverty rate is higher here; instead it represents a policy success of making sure eligible people enroll. [KATU]
- Related: Following a ruling from federal judges, the Trump administration will release money for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. But they’ll pay only half the usual monthly benefits in November. That’ll cause hardships if the government shutdown continues — and will also be logistically more difficult than providing the full SNAP benefits, delaying the payments. [NPR]
3 Car Crash Deaths in a Single Night
Last week, three people were killed by cars in a single evening — between 6:30 and 8 p.m. One was biking; one was walking; and one was in a wheelchair. All were in the East Portland neighborhood of Hazelwood, and two were on streets known as “high-crash corridors” where the city is aware there’s an existing safety problem. [BikePortland]
- Related: So far this year, there have been 33 deaths among people driving, walking, biking, or otherwise using Portland streets — 20 fewer than at this time last year. [BikePortland]
Rain All Week
Expect the rainy weather to last through Friday at least, though we may get a break this afternoon. [Oregonian]
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Ride in the rain, win prizes!
PBOT’s Rainy Rider Photo Contest is here! Each week in November, enter to win waterproof & high visibility gear from Showers Pass, Cleverhood, or Portland Design Works. To participate, text BIKE to 888-520-0526 followed by a photo of yourself biking in the rain. Attend a ride or workshop too!

What To Do
Tuesday, Nov. 4
- 🗳️ Election Day
- ☕ Book Club | Bold Coffee & Books (Goose Hollow)
- 🔬 Science Pub Lecture: Zebrafish | OMSI
- 👟 Kenton Trotters Run Club | Mayfly Taproom and Bottle Shop (Kenton)
- 📚 Anna Boorstin: No Place Like | Broadway Books (Sullivan’s Gulch)
Wednesday, Nov. 5
- 🥃 Craft Mixology Class | Straightaway Cocktails (Buckman)
- 🧑🎨 Artist Lecture: Cameron A. Granger | PNCA
- 📚 Book Swap and Bookmark DIY | Baerlic Brewing (Concordia)
- 📽️ Portland Latin American Film Festival: The Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto) | Hollywood Theatre
- 🎤 Oregon Jewish Voices 2025 | Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (Pearl District)
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The Watermark at the Pearl — urban living for older adults, just steps from galleries and cafés. Member-led clubs, author talks, and wellness on your schedule. Your story continues at PortlandWatermark.com.

Today on City Cast Portland

The Hidden Corners of PDX To Explore Before Your Next Flight
Earlier this year, the Washington Post ranked Portland International Airport the best airport in America. That’s no surprise, given that PDX is a point of pride. Here are some favorite hacks — from where to eat and drink, to ways you can chill out before boarding during the hectic upcoming holiday travel season.
We all don't do this enough: Walk around the terminals, even beyond your concourse, ’cause you might find some cool stuff.
Giving thanks this November! In case you’ve missed it: This month I’m dedicating this spot in the newsletter to ways I (and others) feel grateful for Portland. Today’s moment of thanks is from a reader:
“A city with a warm soul, full of people who genuinely care, through painful moments of history. And strip clubs.” — Travis N.
💗😆 If you’re inspired, please respond to this email or click here to add your reasons for feeling grateful for Portland.
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