😯 An unexpected critic of ICE

Fundraising Numbers for Oregon’s Congressional Delegation

All of Oregon’s representatives in Congress are expected to run for reelection. In the most competitive districts, Democrats have more cash on hand than their Republican challengers. In the 5th Congressional District, Rep. Janelle Bynum has $1.8 million in her campaign fund, far more than her leading challenger’s $173,000. In Oregon’s 4th Congressional District, the gap is less substantial: Rep. Val Hoyle has $386,000 on hand to her leading opponent’s $276,000. [Oregon Capital Chronicle]

• Related: But Democrats nationally are facing a cash problem. Republican super PACs have a lot more money on hand, including a Trump super PAC with $304 million. [New York Times]

39,000 People Helped With Homeless Services Measure

The metro area’s homeless services measure, passed in 2020, hasn’t ended homelessness. Instead, the number of people on the streets has climbed in the first five years — even as the region spent $1.4 billion. There’s obvious concern about those results, but with the Trump administration cuts to social services, the funding is all the more prized — particularly by the 39,000 people who have received rental services, shelter, and other help funded by the measure. [Oregonian]

Will Oregon Keep the Trail Blazers?

A bill introduced in Salem earlier this week would fund the renovations of the Moda Center, using state income taxes already paid by Trail Blazers team members and staff (until now, that money has gone to the state’s general fund). Local and state elected officials are scrambling in a tight budget cycle — with the goal of keeping the team here. There’s fear that losing the team would lead to further decline in Portland. [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Over the next few weeks, there are several notable food festivals, special dinners, and a few ways to celebrate Lunar New Year — with food, of course:

🍩 Tet Box | order today | Delicious Donuts

Sweet treats for the Lunar New Year are available for this weekend. Check out other seasonal picks compiled by Bridgetown Bites.

🎆 Ăn Tết Part 1: After Ours by Night | Feb. 17 | After Ours

The bar, which opened last year, is hosting its first Lunar New Year party.

🍴 Alma + Tuff Talk Rakija Dinner Series | Feb. 22 | Alma

The Balkan restaurant is serving up its tasting menu paired with rakija (fruit spirits from the Balkans).

🍲 Chowder Festival | Feb. 22 | Lake Oswego

It’ll be the third annual celebration, with five different chowders from local chefs.

🦪 Oregon Oyster Fest | Feb. 28 - March 1 | Pal’s (Hayden Island)

Pal’s, which opened last year, has organized the first-ever Oregon Oyster Fest for later this month. It includes a chef dinner on Saturday, Feb. 28.