Allee Willis was your favorite artists’ favorite artist decades before Chappell Roan. Allee Willis was a truly fascinating, wildly-creative artist who worked almost exclusively behind the scenes. She was your favorite artists’ favorite artist decades before Chappell Roan. Allee Willis: creative force behind the Friends TV Show Theme, Dangerous Woman to Soviet newspapers Allee Willis: Creative Force, Dangerous Woman, Queer Songwriter Behind Friends' Theme Further Proof That Friends Is Queer-Coded by Melissa Locker

Whether you watched the show or not, you can probably hum the theme song to Friends. Do you know who wrote it for the Rembrandts? And "September"—the Mercury's second favorite song—do you know who co-wrote that with Earth Wind and Fire's Maurice White?

Not to sound like a weird TV pitchman, but what if I told you they were written with the same person. Specifically,  Allee Willis—who was once dubbed “the most dangerous woman in the world” by Pravda, the the official newspaper of the prelapsarian Soviet Union.  

Willis is the star of a new documentary, The World According to Allee Willis, which celebrates its Oregon premiere at the QDoc Film Festival on November 16. The doc is worth your time to burnish your bar trivia skills, but also because Willis was a truly fascinating, wildly-creative artist who worked almost exclusively behind the scenes. She was your favorite artists’ favorite artist decades before Chappell Roan.

Willis had insisted on documenting her life, since 1978, long before reality TV was a thing, so there's plenty of her archival video found in the film. "I've always known that my final art piece would be someone putting together the trail I've left behind," she says in one clip. 

In 2019, Willis died at age 72, and director Alexis Manya Spraic became responsible for following that trail. Spraic intersperses the footage with a cavalcade of famous faces—Paul Reubens, Lily Tomlin, Cyndi Lauper, Pamela Adlon, Paul Feig, Sex and the City director Michael Patrick King, Devo’s Mark Mothersbaugh, as well as—somewhat inexplicably—billionaire Mark Cuban. Their interviews confirm that Willis really was a Hollywood power player, even if you don’t know her name.

Raised in Detroit as Alta Willis, the artist admits that growing up in the shadow of Motown influenced her work. She also did a stint in New York where she wrote her one and only album, Childstar, which had “great reviews and zero sales.” Eventually Willis moved to California because “if she was going to starve to death, she was going to do it in the sun.” ["Not me!" -Portland creatives.]

Willis lived on welfare in that sun, until "Godmother of Soul" Patti LaBelle heard her music, and kickstarted Willis’ songwriting career. Then came Earth Wind & Fire and “September,” the track that made Willis a songwriting star.

"Allee said she was lucky to meet us. We were lucky to meet her, too,” the group's bassist Verdine White says in the film. “That was life-changing for all of us.”

Earth Wind & Fire followed the success of "September" by co-writing another hit “Boogie Wonderland” with Willis, helping her become the music industry’s go-to “rock doc” who could fix up a song and turn it into a hit. 

Courtesy of Magnolia Pictures

In addition to being a wildly successful songwriter, Willis was also an art director and set designer, creating the backdrops for Debbie Harry music videos, among others. She continued to collaborate on songs, behind the scenes, and won both a Grammy and a Tony for her work on the musical The Color Purple.  The Friends theme was nominated for an Emmy, but didn't win.

While Willis was able to find professional success, that never quite translated into financial solvency. She also faced challenges in her private life—partially because she was queer at a time when it was extremely difficult to be open and out. She struggled with loneliness for much of her life, Lauper says during one of the film's interviews.

Willis did eventually find love, and then had to contend with the near-universal struggle of balancing work, creativity, and her personal life. When you’re looking at The World According to Allee Willis, it's a wild,  wonderful, and sometimes painful view, but well worth watching.

The World According to Allee Willis screens as part of QDoc Film Festival at Hollywood Theatre, 4122 NE Sandy, Sat Nov 16, 4:30 pm, $12, tickets here. Some streaming starting Nov 22. Visit alleewillisdoc.com for more.

by Suzette Smith

The Mercury provides its readers with interesting and useful news & culture reporting every single day. If you appreciate that, consider making a small monthly contribution to support our editorial team. If you read something you like, something you don't like but are glad to know about, and/or something you can't find anywhere else consider a one-time tip. It all goes in the same pot and it all goes to the editorial team. Thanks for your support!

Good Morning, Portland! When they told me a bat could be beautiful I didn't believe, but now I believe.

IN LOCAL NEWS:
• As October comes to a close, so too does the Bureau of Land Management’s annual Bat Beauty Contest, which asks where the "most stunning bat photographed on BLM public lands" can be found? It's Oregon, motherfuckers! For the third year running WE HAVE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BAT. YES! Despite J. K. Rowling's tarnished-as-hell legacy, we can still celebrate this feisty male hoary bat, Hoary Potter. It's also worth noting that this is the second year a bat photographed by wildlife technician Emma Busk took top beauty honors. Busk wrote, "anyone who knows me knows that I’ve been wanting to photograph a hoary bat,"—a sentiment we can all echo.

BLM's most beautiful bat is from Oregon, and I love him. pic.twitter.com/T8qQgsz5kT

— Suzette Smith (@suzettesmith) November 1, 2024

• There's also terrible news, unfortunately. Yesterday evening, a shooting at Vancouver Mall, in Vancouver, WA, killed one person and injured two in the building's food court.  A witness who spoke to KOIN described "a harrowing scene, as the shopping center was full of kids trick-or-treating." So far, police have said they do not have a suspect in custody and the person may still be armed. They told KOIN they were reviewing surveillance footage, but have not yet released a description of the shooter.

• Oh my god, Clark County are you okay? KPTV reports that Clark County Elections Office is warning voters to beware of unofficial ballot boxes. Unofficial ballot boxes are not illegal in Washington! (This also appears to be true of Oregon!) Clark County Elections encouraged voters official ballot return locations.

• The Oregonian is returning to broadsheet size, they announced yesterday in a post that did not explain what that is for readers who didn't go to graphic design school / work in at newspaper with some old dude named Phil. Somewhat surprisingly, Willamette Week's Nigel Jaquiss stepped in to clarify. Tabloid is hotdog style fold; broadsheet is burger. Both WW and the Mercury are hotdogs. The New York Times is burger fold.

• NPR's Up First weirdly tried to do a report on Vice President Kamala Harris "highlighting Trump's own language and using it against him," as if that's somehow something of which to be critical? Gave me the vapors of the new Hasaan Hates Portland sketch from this week:

• In two week's the city's beloved queer documentary festival QDoc will host the Oregon debut of The World According to Allee Willis, which explores the complicated life of a queer "song doctor" who co-wrote not only Earth, Wind and Fire's "September," but the Friends TV show theme. Check out Melissa Locker's review of the film.; she says it's not to be missed!

• Did you take this week's local news quiz? 

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IN NATIONAL NEWS:
• Atlanta rap star Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, finally walked free last night, after pleading guilty to "six counts, including possession of drugs and firearms... leading a criminal street gang and conspiracy to violate the RICO act, the state’s racketeering law," the New York Times reports. As part of the plea, the judge sentenced Williams to a total sentence of 40 years, but commuted the five years of prison time to the two and a half years that Williams has already served. Williams will remain on probation for 15 years, and will "be required to stay away from metro Atlanta for the first 10 years of his probation." He is also required to take random drug tests, make anti-gang presentations for children's organizations four times a year, perform 100 hours of community service a year, and "refrain from promoting gangs or being around known gang members." The ongoing Young Slime Life (YSL) court proceedings—which caused NYT's Joe Coscarelli to ask "is YSL was a record label, street gang, or both?"—have stretched into what is now the longest trial in Georgia history. Despite three other plea deals this week, it appears the trial will continue with the two remaining co-defendants.

• Mark Zuckerberg dressed as Fran Lebowitz for Halloween, and that's just what happened.

Mark Zuckerberg dressed as John Wick for Halloween but I thought it was Fran Lebowitz pic.twitter.com/zdXaomOMPR

— Meech (@MediumSizeMeech) November 1, 2024

• You're going to see some stuff today about "explosive new audio" recordings where Donald Trump speaks candidly to the reviled Jeffrey Epstein about his White House Staff and his disdain for the position itself. It's only really on the Daily Beast, the podcast of journalist Michael Wolff, and a few other sites. I'd rather wait til a super solid source gets it—seems like maybe they're holding off because they're checking it?—but the story is out there. Don't sound like anything particularly new, but people are saying "October surprise" because they want attention.

• Also in weird news about guys we already thought were corrupt, Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is apparently pledged to some secretive religious traditionalist organization. That tracks.

• Flashback to this masterpiece, which has been floating around the zeitgeist all week.

Portland All Souls River Procession, Family Dinner, and More Cheap & Easy Events Under $15 by EverOut Staff

We hope you're not too tired from Halloween partying because there's plenty of fun events to hit up this weekend, from The 4th Annual Portland All Souls River Procession to The People's Court's Camp Crystal Lake Halloween Party and from the Family Dinner benefit concert to a Diwali Festival. For more ideas, check out our guide to the top events of the week. P.S. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday—don't forget to set your clocks back!

FRIDAY PARTIES & NIGHTLIFE

Camp Crystal Lake at TPC Halloween Party
For the uninitiated, Camp Crystal Lake is the name of the kids' camp attended by serial killer Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th film series. This Friday, it’s the theme for a night of Halloween revelry at recreational sports spot The People's Courts. I expect there’ll be a lot of hockey masks and camp counselors in the costume contest—as well as creeping around the 48,000-square-foot facility during the scavenger hunt, so prepare for jump scares. Bring your friends for an evening of themed drink specials, photo ops, and lighthearted competition: bocce, corn hole, and disc golf are included in your ticket, but it'll be an additional cost if you want to get some pickleball games in. SHANNON LUBETICH
(The People's Courts, Madison South, $12 regular admission/$25 for pickleball)

Cà Phê, Hand-Smashed Lime Tea, and Sour Pomegranate Doughnuts by EverOut Staff Welcome to November! Kick off the month with fresh lime tea from The Lime Stand, açaí bowls from the new gluten-free bakery Kirari West, and Vietnamese coffee from Friends Share Cà Phê. Plus, find out where to get passionfruit frozen custard and sour pomegranate doughnuts. For more ideas, check out our food and drink guide.

NEW OPENINGS & RETURNS

Friends Share Cà Phê
Bridgetown Bites reports that this Vietnamese cafe pop-up is set to launch inside the recently opened Friends Share community space in East Portland from 10 am-2 pm on Sunday, November 3. The menu will feature coffee, jasmine tea, hot chocolate sweetened with condensed milk, and bánh mì.
Centennial

Polling data suggests voters see opportunities to strengthen local environmental policies and change course on issues like oil by rail. by Taylor Griggs

Portland has long been known for a strong ethos of environmentalism among its population. But with the increasingly dire nature of the climate crisis, environmental issues are playing a central role in this year’s election. Amid changes to city government and heightened focus on the efficacy of Portland’s Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), residents and City Council candidates see an opportunity to shift gears on climate action. 

Survey data released earlier this week show Portland voters are especially concerned with how the future City Council will handle PCEF and the Zenith Energy oil terminal. Both topics have been controversial for current City Council members, most of whom are running to remain in City Hall. According to the survey results, Portland voters are more likely to support candidates who support strengthening PCEF and who oppose Zenith. 

The poll was conducted by progressive polling firm Data for Progress and Lead Locally, an organization that works to address climate change through local elections. It’s a point-in-time assessment of 579 likely Portland voters from October 4-9. Though this is a small fraction of Portland voters, the poll’s findings have been reflected in messaging from many City Council candidates throughout the campaign season. 

Take PCEF, a program approved by a 2018 ballot measure that collects a 1 percent tax on local big business sales and uses it to pay for local carbon-reduction projects, especially in historically disadvantaged communities. PCEF is overseen by Commissioner Carmen Rubio–a top candidate for mayor–in the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability. 

Rubio directed major code changes at PCEF, transforming the program in alignment with the city’s climate goals, and has been commended for that work. But she’s been criticized for attempts to redirect PCEF money into struggling city programs. Fellow commissioner and mayoral candidate Rene Gonzalez also proposed funding unrelated programs, specifically public safety initiatives in his portfolio, with PCEF dollars. 

According to the voter survey, about 65 percent of likely Portland voters feel positively about PCEF, and would be more likely to vote for candidates who support strengthening the program. The majority of Council candidates, too, have expressed favorable views about PCEF. Most candidates, when asked in an Oregonian/OPB questionnaire, said they do not support putting PCEF back on the ballot, and want to make sure the program’s funds are only used for carbon-reduction projects. 

District 1 candidate Jamie Dunphy said he believes PCEF should be protected, and not used as a “slush fund or a general purpose sales tax.” District 2’s Marnie Glickman said “we are fortunate to have PCEF because climate resilience costs are rising,” and the program “shouldn’t be raided to fund other needs.” Similar sentiments were echoed among many of their peers.

A minority of candidates said they wanted to expand the uses for PCEF money by putting the measure back on the ballot. District 4 candidate Eli Arnold, for example, said he supports asking Portlanders to vote on PCEF again, and wants to “preserve the original projected size of the program and move the excess to the general fund.” Other candidates, such as Noah Ernst in District 1 and Melodie Beirwagen in District 3, said they’re concerned the tax has a negative impact on businesses in Portland. District 2 candidate Chris Olson had a different reason for wanting to put PCEF back on the ballot: He said he wants to increase the tax to 2 percent, ensuring "greater investment in renewable energy, green jobs, and economic justice." 

On the other side of the coin, the survey results show only 22 percent of Portlanders polled said they feel positively about Zenith Energy’s oil-by-rail terminal in the Northwest Industrial Area. Just under half of respondents said they have unfavorable views, with 32 percent saying they didn’t know enough to say. 

In 2022, the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS)—then overseen by Commissioner Dan Ryan, who is running for a seat in District 2—approved a land use permit for Zenith’s operations in Portland. The city previously denied the oil transport company a Land Use Compatibility Statement (LUCS), threatening Zenith’s future in the city. But city officials gave in after a lengthy legal battle, and a promise that Zenith would switch to renewable fuels. 

Environmental advocates doubted Zenith’s promise to switch to renewables, and said such a move wouldn’t protect Portlanders in the case of an earthquake and subsequent oil spill. When Rubio took over BDS in 2023, Zenith critics were hopeful for change, but the city maintained Zenith’s land use permit. Earlier this year, the Portland Elections Office found the oil transport company violated local lobbying rules while trying to get the permit approved, spending excessive time and money trying to court city officials, particularly Ryan and Rubio. 

More than two dozen people running for City Council have indicated they want the city to have a different relationship with Zenith. In an October 10 letter to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), 27 candidates asked the agency to delay its decision making about Zenith’s Air Contaminant Discharge Permit. The candidates said given “the legitimate concerns of Portland organizations and community members,” they want the new City Council to have the opportunity to “review past city decisions, understand any potential enforcement liability, and weigh in during the public process.” 

Most of the candidates who signed the letter to the DEQ are from District 4, where Zenith’s facilities are located. Six of the candidates who signed hail from District 2, which would also be heavily impacted in the case of an oil spill in the Willamette River. The St. Johns neighborhood is directly across the river from Portland’s Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub, which houses the Zenith terminal. 

Candidates who signed the letter include Mitch Green, Chad Lykins, Eli Arnold, and Olivia Clark (District 4), Brian Conley, Tiffany Koyama Lane, and Angelita Morillo (District 3), Jonathan Tasini, Nat West, and Marnie Glickman (District 2), and Doug Clove and Peggy Sue Owens (District 1). 

“Portlanders do not want or deserve to have their safety put at risk by trains carrying dangerous liquid fuels, whether it is oil or so-called ‘renewable fuels,’” the letter reads. “Portland residents should be protected by their government and that’s what we hope to do on city council.” 

Portland environmental advocates say they want stronger climate leadership from the new City Council. In a press release about the polling results, Oregon Sierra Club Director Damon Motz-Storey said it’s evident that “Portlanders widely support environmental justice.” 

“Portlanders are tired of fossil fuels and the dangers they present to our communities, our climate, and the natural world, so we see right through the efforts to greenwash the Zenith crude oil terminal,” Motz-Storey said. “Climate leadership in Portland requires a commitment to environmental justice and taking on our biggest polluters.” 

Sabrina Carpenter, Cyndi Lauper, and More by EverOut Staff

November is here, which means a deluge of holidays are coming your way, from Election Day to Veterans Day to Thanksgiving. Plus, it's Native American Heritage Month and the first round of festive winter events are coming down the pike. Of course, there's also the usual array of concerts, festivals, food & drink events, and tons more. As we do every month, we've compiled the biggest events you need to know about in every genre, from Sabrina Carpenter to Cyndi Lauper and from World Vegan Month to PLUS PLUS: PAM CUT's New Annual Festival.

FILM

PLUS PLUS: PAM CUT's New Annual Festival
I have to hand it to PAM CUT. Although virtually everyone clowned on their name change (they were formerly known as Northwest Film Center), the organization's revamp of a decrepit, one-time adult movie theater has been thrilling to see. Tomorrow Theater offers a consistent slate of screenings supplemented with artsy programming, and their new annual multimedia festival, PLUS PLUS, will offer more where that came from. Throughout November, drop by for parties, art happenings, and community events—I'm stoked for talks with Ani DiFranco and Titus Kaphar, special screenings, and collaborations with local art-makers Carla Rossi, Violet Hex, DJ Anjali, and woo-woo. LINDSAY COSTELLO
Tomorrow Theater, Richmond (Nov 1–Dec 1)

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

GOOD MORNING, SUNDAY! It's the perfect time to catch up on some of the great reporting and stories the Mercury churned out this week! (PRO TIP: If you despise being "the last to know," then be one of the first to know by signing up for Mercury newsletters! All the latest stories shipped directly to your email's in-box... and then... YOUR HEAD.)

• Lawsuits Allege Deceit and Greenwashing by Oregon’s Largest Gas Utility

Advocates hope two lawsuits filed this month against gas utility NW Natural lead to change. The lawsuits say NW Natural has lied to customers and shared greenwashing propaganda, including spreading misinformation about a state climate policy.

Taylor Griggs

• POP QUIZ PDX!

It's the spooooky HALLOWEEN edition of your fave weekly trivia quiz! This week: creepy Trump statues, ghost cars, and Portland's most HAUNTED locales! OoooOOOoooooh! (That's our imitation of a ghost, btw. ????) See how well YOU score!

Sergeeva / Getty Images

• The Mercury's November 2024 VOTER CHEAT SHEET!

Filling out your ballot this weekend? GOOD! Need help? Voila, here's your 100% accurate Mercury Endorsement Cheat Sheet to help you fill out your ballot lickety-split!

• How Portland Became a Roller Derby Mecca

Twenty years ago, Portland's first modern roller derby league emerged. It's now the largest derby league in the world. Now, the four-time global champion Rose City Rollers will compete for another title win this weekend at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Recess the Photographer

• Could the James Beard Public Market Rise From the Corpse of Corporate Failure?

Long envisioned as Portland's version of Seattle's Pike Place, the James Bear Public Market would also provide an answer to downtown’s dearth of fresh produce.

Courtesy of the James Beard Public Market

• What to Expect From Portland’s New Government

Good news: Portland is getting a (much needed) new form of city government in January. But what exactly is changing for our elected officials? And, perhaps more importantly, how will all of this impact you?

Pete Gamlin

• THE TRASH REPORT

If you're looking for the trashiest gossip from this election season, then you've found the right garbage can. ???? ????

Jeff Swenson / Getty Images

• TICKET ALERT

Get those tickets now for the shows you don't want to miss, including Tyler, The Creator, country pop princess Kelsea Ballerini, and Berlin-based pianist, composer, and producer Nils Frahm!

Tyler, The Creator

• Infinite Life: A Play About Pain That Hurts So Good

Third Rail Repertory kicks off its 2024-25 season with a work by contemporary theater star Annie Baker. Never before have six actors worked their respective chaise lounges with such verve.

John Rudoff

• Don't Miss the Mercury's ELECTION NIGHT WATCH PARTY!

Looking for fun on election night? Join your friends at Mississippi Studios for the Mercury's official election night watch party—hosted by the hilarious Alex Falcone and Shain Brenden! (And what? IT'S FREE!)

WOW, THAT IS A LOT OF GOOD READIN'. I hope you didn't have any other plans this weekend! Dig in, and remember: Producing all this hard work costs moolah—so please consider contributing to the Mercury to keep it all coming! Thanks!

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

If you’re reading this, you probably know the value of the Mercury’s news reporting, arts and culture coverage, event calendar, and the bevy of events we host throughout the year. The work we do helps our city shine, but we can’t do it without your support. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support!

GOOD MORNING, PORTLAND! ????

Hmmm... let's check the calendar to see if anything interesting is happening this week, and... OH WOW, THE ELECTION IS TOMORROW. If you haven't filled out your ballot yet, allow us to help! Check out the Mercury's Election Issue (in more than 500 spots around town) which comes complete with all our endorsements AND our handy-dandy voter cheat sheet! And despite what some people might say, voting is actually a lot easier than you might think. Now let's think a little about today's NEWS.

IN LOCAL NEWS:

• Let's start with the disappointing Oregonian headline of the day:

Oh, hello... unless I overslept again and missed it, THE ELECTION HASN'T HAPPENED YET, AND THEREFORE HAS NOT BEEN "UPENDED" BY ANYTHING. Despite the inference behind this very poorly worded headline, ranked-choice voting is actually super easy, and having a "sprawling" candidate field simply means that we finally have a far more diverse group of people (not just moneyed white dudes bought and paid for by local business interests) running for office. THAT IS A VERY GOOD THING. So allow me to rewrite this headline: "Ranked-choice voting, healthy and diverse candidate field is great for Portland City Council races and democracy in general." Oh, and you are WELCOME.

Filling out your ballot this weekend? GOOD! Need help? Voila, here's your 100% accurate Mercury Endorsement Cheat Sheet to help you fill out your ballot lickety-split!https://t.co/kKi0W0Yfmd

— Portland Mercury ???? (@portlandmercury) November 2, 2024

• As we know, Portland's attempts to construct and carry out good environmental policies has been hampered by our current city council (who, again, was bought and paid for by local business interests ????). However, that could very well change with a more progressive, people-oriented council, and a significant number of current candidates are promising to change this narrative if they are elected to office on Tuesday. Find out more with this interesting report from our Taylor Griggs.

• A suspect has been arrested in the Halloween shooting at a Vancouver mall which left one person dead and two injured. Vancouver resident Travis L. Ward was taken into custody by police and members of the city's SWAT team after receiving tips from Facebook users. The shooting was allegedly a targeted attack, and the suspect—who was reportedly dressed in black and wearing a clown mask—is scheduled to appear in court today.

When Skye Baskin died, it was initially portrayed as a failure of the Oregon State Hospital. New records reviewed by OPB indicate serious failures in the Douglas County Jail preceded his death.

Jail health care remains terrible in Oregon. https://t.co/Jwm2Z1Ziik

— Ryan Haas (@ryanjhaas) November 4, 2024

• One of Oregon's conservation greats, Bob Sallinger, has died suddenly at the age of 57. Known for leading such longtime environmental groups as Willamette Riverkeeper and Bird Conservation Oregon (BCO), Sallinger was a beloved figure who, according to the board of BCO, "was a pioneer in highlighting the importance of preserving and restoring wildlife habitat in urban areas, and a key player in efforts to conserve iconic Oregon landscapes, including the Elliott Forest, Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, and the Klamath Basin." He will be missed.

Looking for fun on election night? Join your friends at Mississippi Studios for the Mercury's official election night watch party—hosted by the hilarious Alex Falcone and Shain Brenden! (And what? IT'S FREE!)https://t.co/OXyBltoyPr

— Portland Mercury ???? (@portlandmercury) November 3, 2024

IN NATIONAL/WORLD NEWS:

• Since that's all anyone can think about at the moment, here's your ELECTION EVE HEADLINE ROUNDUP: "Harris and Trump head to key battleground states for final campaign sprint." "GOP primed to back Trump if he contests election." (And he will.) "North Carolina sees turnout record with more than 4.2M ballots cast at early in-person voting sites." "Trump doesn't rule out banning vaccines if he becomes president." "Pollster Behind Shock Iowa Poll Hits Back at Trump’s Attacks." "Trump says he doesn’t mind someone shooting at journalists at rally." "Ad showing women hiding their vote from their husbands sparks conservative anger." (Hee-hee-hee!)

Univision poll: Latino voters

Harris 64%
Trump 30%

69% said the Puerto Rico garbage remark was "more racist than humorous."

Oct. 29-Nov. 3, MOE +/-5%

— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) November 4, 2024

This is NORTH CAROLINA the morning before the election. Donald Trump is on stage in 90 mins time at this 7,600 seater stadium and there are NO huge crowds outside and people are still walking in. I have never seen this at a Trump rally in a red state. pic.twitter.com/AXYFP3n7m0

— Phil Lavelle ????????/???? (@phillavelle) November 4, 2024

• The tech union for the New York Times—which helps handle such critical things as, say... oh, I don't know... election coverage—is going on strike today after management (who have reportedly known about this strike deadline for months) failed to come to an agreement with workers.

• A cyclone in the Caribbean is showing signs of developing into (yet another) hurricane this week as storm prepares to cross over Cuba and into the Gulf of Mexico.

I do believe that, despite this, she will win https://t.co/cOU7ZeWAKa

— Chase Mitchell (@ChaseMit) November 3, 2024

• RIP to one of the music industry's most prolific giants, Quincy Jones (who produced the best-selling album of all time, Michael Jackson's Thriller, as well as countless other memorable songs and movie scores) who has died at the age of 91.

• And finally... you and this goat paper towel dispenser share something in common a day before the election:

@henajahan_ #goat ♬ original sound - HenAJaHan_

Sabrina Carpenter, David Sedaris, and More by EverOut Staff

There's plenty of first-rate events to check out this week, from The Official Portland Mercury Election Watch Party to Sabrina Carpenter's Short N’ Sweet Tour and from Kumoricon to An Evening With David Sedaris, but first, make sure to VOTE! And for a look at the month ahead, check out our November events guide.

MONDAY LIVE MUSIC

Dehd
Chicago-based indie-rock trio Dehd, who Pitchfork has dubbed "as much a rock band as they are a viable alternative to Red Bull," is coming to town to support their new album, Poetry. The album sounds like the sonic interpretation of the summer season with warm guitar riffs and bouncing percussion that evokes running down a beach to catch the ice cream truck. Don't miss an opening set from Brooklyn-based art-punk band Gustaf. AUDREY VANN
(Wonder Ballroom, Eliot)

Worried? Try putting your head deep into this garbage gossip can for a few minutes. by Elinor Jones

Hello, and welcome back to the Trash Report! Like many people with mental illness, my home is a reflection of what is happening with the ol' brain—when depression is in the driver's seat, my house gets messy; when anxiety is calling the shots, the palace is pristine. And friends, being ONE DAY away from yet ANOTHER "most crucial presidential election of our time," I am literally out of things to organize! There is no more dust. I'm ironing? Your girl is not okay. I love this column for an excuse to look at something besides another very frightening poll, so let's get to the trash!

Make it Stop

As this election plummets to its final resting place, Kamala Harris has collected endorsements from such luminaries as Cardi B, Bad Bunny, Eminem, Jennifer Lopez, Harrison Ford, and most of the Avengers.

I do believe that, despite this, she will win https://t.co/cOU7ZeWAKa

— Chase Mitchell (@ChaseMit) November 3, 2024

The most recent celebrity to come out for Trump was none other than the the famously antisemitic Mel Gibson, who shared his support only after Trump's Nazi rally at Madison Square Garden, which goes to prove just how much of a Nazi rally that definitely was.  

Feud Reports

On a recent episode of his podcast, Ted Danson apologized to Kelsey Grammer for carrying a grudge since they worked together on Cheers. Grammer graciously accepted the apology. But I am not graciously receiving this "gossip." What happened?! What was the argument about? Why do this on a podcast without giving us the tea? This is the same kind of bullshit "this is not who we are" 2016-era dignity that no longer is the vibe. We're petty now! Tell us who was mean! Danson went on to say "I feel like I missed out on the last 30 years of Kelsey Grammer." What celebrity planet was Ted Danson living on because I feel like the rest of us have seen far too much Kelsey Grammer in the past 30 years. Streaming services were basically invented to avoid reruns of Frasier. 

In much more interesting feuds, Martha Stewart alluded to one between her and fellow kitchen and lifestyle guru Ina Garten. Garten had claimed in her recent memoir that the women drifted apart after one of them moved to Connecticut. Stewart agrees that the rift had to do with a move, but it was Stewart moving into a federal prison. I would imagine it could feel complicated to be a public figure being friends with a felon, but I can guarantee that if one of my friends went to jail for a non-violent crime I wouldn't stop talking to them! I'd probably talk way too much to them, in fact. I just have so many questions. If Martha Stewart and I had been friends who fell out and she later reflected on it, she would be like "Elinor was there for me when I was in jail, but she was too there for me, and wouldn't leave me alone, and I was sick of talking about prison toilet wine, so that's when our feud started."

Targeted Anecdotes

The long-awaited sequel to The Gladiator is coming out soon and I could not have less interest in going to see it! That is, until Pedro Pascal revealed that he and Paul Mescal kissed in one take of a fight scene, and that might be the take they used in the movie, and I guess I'm going to go see Gladiator 2 now. Have the Wicked PR folks considered floating a rumor that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande kiss instead of hawking a green and pink version of every product on God's green earth? (And is there a pink earth? There probably will be soon!) 

At this point is there a category of merchandise that doesn’t have a Wicked tie-in? I’m half expecting my gynecologist to ask whether I want a pink or green speculum.

— Anika Chapin (@AnikaChapin) October 31, 2024

Love is Dead

Channing Tatum and Zoe Kravitz have allegedly called off their engagement after three years together, and just days after Tatum finally ended his years-long divorce saga with ex Jenna Dewan. This makes me think that Zoe Kravitz for sure never thought that Tatum's divorce would ever be finalized when she said yes to that ring. Tatum has been spotted around New York City smoking cigarettes, but holding them in a way that makes me think he hasn't smoked before; starting smoking at 44 is hilarious, but also very hot and chic!

In other rebound choices, Gisele Bunchen revealed that she is pregnant with her third child, which will be her first since getting divorced from Tom Brady, and the first with her boyfriend, who is also her longtime Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Tom Brady is reacting to it like any normal 30-year-old woman and posting Fleetwood Mac lyrics to his Instagram which is the most I've ever liked him. 

On Loss in the Modern Era

Helen Mirren recently waxed poetically about tragic losses of beloved icons, specifically Kurt Cobain, and specifically that Kurt Cobain's early demise in the 90s meant that he never got to experience the magic that is a GPS system. Iconic music producer Quincy Jones passed away just yesterday. He would have seen GPS. Does Helen Mirren not think this is as sad of a loss, because at least he died with the immense satisfaction of having watched a little dot that represented his car being driven towards a destination, thus making it a full and worthwhile life? Helen Mirren has yet to comment. 

Trash Pandas In the News

A Sam's Club in Maryland had to shut down last week due to a racoon breaking into their bakery. A statement from the store read "after attempts to locate the raccoon were unsuccessful, Sam's Club representatives were advised best practices to properly capture the animal." Which means that during the initial attempts to capture the animal, they had no idea what the best practices were, and it must have been so funny. Imagine that raccoon's surprise to learn that there is a way to eat croissants, pre-trash? Going back to garbage pastries after that has got to be a bummer. Anyway, as the kids say, "in da clerb we all fam," but the clerb is a Sam's Club. Sam's Clerb, as it were.

Okay, I just realized there's a bookshelf in my office that I haven't yet reorganized and if I don't do that right now it will make it so college-educated women in Michigan won't turn out in numbers, which makes a lot of sense when you think about it. I hope you get through the next few days okay. If you process stress by being around people, the Mercury is going to hold an election night party hosted by the more extroverted of us. Meanwhile, we indoor kids will be live-blogging as the night goes on, so check back here if that's something you can handle. Thank you for reading and for voting and for being cherished members of the dumpster pile. 

Nervously,

by Courtney Vaughn

The Mercury provides news and fun every single day—but your help is essential. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support!

Good morning and happy election day, Portland! Obviously, drop off that ballot if you haven't yet. If you need a replacement, the county elections office can help you. If you're not sure who to vote for, here's our handy dandy election guide, which even includes a cheat sheet for you to refer to when filling out your ballot. If you’re monitoring results, let us keep you company on our live election night blog, and if you need to commiserate with others, or share a joke and a drink to ease the stress, join us in person at Mississippi Studios tonight for our free election night party!

In Local News: 

• Speaking of the election, voter turnout so far in Multnomah County is a little low. The number of ballots returned by Monday hovered below 46 percent. In the last presidential election, more than 73 percent of Multnomah County ballots were returned the day before the election. Some have speculated that Portland’s new ranked choice voting system and the sheer number of City Council candidates is slowing voters down, or dissuading them from filling out their ballot. BUT, people were a lot less busy in 2020, and if RCV is the culprit, why is Clackamas County–which isn’t using ranked voting– also seeing just 50 percent turnout by Monday? Similarly, Washington County’s elections office reports only 47 percent of ballots were returned by Monday. Maybe voters procrastinated, or maybe they’re just waiting to drop off their ballots in broad daylight, when there’s less likelihood of a ballot box getting blown up by some nut job. 

Turnout in Multnomah County as of November 4, 1 days before the election.

Current: 46% of accepted ballots (50% with returned ballots)
2020: 73%
2004-2020 average: 65%
2004-2016 average: 63% pic.twitter.com/xVyPxKjebo

— John Horvick (@horvick) November 5, 2024

 

• In other local election news, a few buildings downtown have boarded up their windows in preparation for potential election night protests. Portland police have been hyping up the potential for election-related violence for months now, creating a bit of hysteria that’s got some major companies spooked. At least one online flier inviting anarchist protest has circulated, but it’s unrelated to any particular candidate or party and more directed at general disdain for the state of the country.

Both local and national law enforcement teams are on standby in Portland ahead of Election Day, but many businesses are taking matters into their own hands… boarding up their windows and doors. @fox12oregon pic.twitter.com/0kmbAWAIvb

— Mckenzie Richmond (@kenziestuvland) November 4, 2024

• Portland City Council seems primed to overturn the city’s agreement with Multnomah County on managing homelessness. As we reported a few weeks ago, City Commissioners Rene Gonzalez, Mingus Mapps and Dan Ryan have all signaled support for dissolving the intergovernmental agreement that lays out which functions each government agency handles, in an effort to collaborate and tag-team the region’s most critical issue. The three stooges allege Multnomah County hasn’t kept up its end of the bargain, and they’ve got professional shit stirrer and County Commissioner Sharon Meieran egging them on. This week, Portland City Council will vote on whether to end the agreement. Jessica Vega Pederson, chair of the county’s Board of Commissioners, has called out the plan to kill the agreement as short-sighted, misinformed, chickenshit, and harmful to unhoused Portlanders who need a bevy of resources and services.

Regional executive leaders are united supporting a collaborative approach to addressing homelessness, and pushing back on this political stunt that includes no plan.

“The three commissioners did not provide any alternative plan”https://t.co/KFIkThGrNo

— Jessica Vega Pederson (@jvegapederson) October 18, 2024

• Here’s a bright spot: Portland’s own Rose City Rollers took home a fifth world championship title over the weekend. The league’s all-star roller derby team, Wheels of Justice, overtook St. Louis’ Arch Rival Roller Derby in the final game of a three-day tournament at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Due to the international repercussions of the pandemic, this year’s Women’s Flat Track Derby Association Global Championships were the first since 2019. Keep your eyes peeled for more of our coverage. Rose City Rollers all-star team Wheels of Justice celebrates after a championship 
  win Sunday, Nov. 3.  courtney vaughn Gov. Tina Kotek (center) rallies the crowd Saturday, Nov. 2 at the 2024 Women's Flat
  Track Derby Association Global Championships. To the left, Kim "Rocket Mean" Stegeman (left) holds the championship Hydra trophy.   courtney vaughn

In National/World News:

• Attorneys for Elon Musk basically admitted that Musk’s election lottery scheme was more of a plot to boost the Republican party. When faced with charges of running an illegal election lottery, where he promised to pick a daily winner at random for a $1 million prize in an effort to get people registered to vote, attorneys said Musk never intended to use a lottery system to choose a winner. He instead planned to vet and select the right person to essentially be a cheerleader for Trump and the Republican party. Huh. Money can buy rocket ships and high-dollar attorneys, but it can’t buy intellect.

@lizzza

I’ll be with B

♬ original sound - Liza Koshy

• Quincy Jones, the musician and producer behind Michael Jackson’s Thriller who also worked with Frank Sinatra and was awarded 27 Grammys during his lifetime, died at 91. Jones died at home with family in Los Angeles. He was set to receive an honorary Academy Award later this month.

RIP to Quincy Jones. Do yourselves a solid and watch the documentary “Quincy” by his daughter, Rashida Jones. https://t.co/6nIE8VzPoz https://t.co/lOzgNCmFyZ

— GullahMuseumSC (@GullahSc) November 4, 2024

• Your black plastic spatula is slowly poisoning you. Recent reporting in The Atlantic reveals that many black plastic kitchen utensils are likely being made from recycled electronic waste, and leaching toxic chemicals into your food. The discovery was noted by a biochemist in 2018, who asserted that the high amount of flame retardants in black plastic products like spatulas signals the items were probably manufactured with recycled electronic parts used in computers and TVs. Because plastic is prone to leaching chemicals when it’s heated, researchers theorize it’s likely that black plastic cookware is releasing harmful compounds into cooking oil and hot foods. Might also be time to rethink all the plastic carryout containers used to store and reheat hot foods. ☣️????

• One last bit of election-related news, promise! ICYMI: Donald Trump pretended to blow a microphone during a campaign stop last week. Trump was pissed about the mic malfunctioning and his instinct was to mime a raunchy, suggestive movement with his hand and mouth. Keep this man away from children (and the White House). Hawk tuah!

@sbsnews_au

Donald Trump motions over an empty microphone stand after battling technical issues at a campaign rally.

♬ original sound - SBS News

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

If you’re reading this, you probably know the value of the Mercury’s news reporting, arts and culture coverage, event calendar, and the bevy of events we host throughout the year. The work we do helps our city shine, but we can’t do it without your support. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support!

GOOD MORNING, PORTLAND. 

As we wake to face a repeat of authoritarian rule, I wanted to share something I wrote last night during our election live blog:

We can look into the darkness and choose to hide there, or we can do like we did in 2016 and rise up. You can bet that’s what we here at the Mercury will be doing. We consider it a privilege to be able to stand up for the voiceless and fight against the rising tide of hatred. We’ve been doing it for the past 24 years, and there is absolutely no way we’re going to stop now.

But we will need your help, because now there are millions of people across the country who will need your assistance as well. We can do it together, because we’ve done it before and we know what it takes. Cry, scream, yell, and grieve—and then get a good night’s sleep. Because tomorrow, we’re going to need that roaring fire that burns inside each of us to continue protecting those who need it most. We believe in you. You are strong enough to face the road ahead, and we’ll be right there beside you. 

Now, let's look at the news.

IN LOCAL ELECTION NEWS:

• While we can expect more results to drop from Multnomah County elections, the current leader for mayor of Portland (and by a wide margin) is trucking company owner Keith Wilson. That said, Multnomah County officials say that up to 50 percent of the votes have yet to be counted, which could throw a lifeline of hope to second place candidate Carmen Rubio, and probably won't be any help at all to distant third place challenger Rene Gonzalez, har-har hardy-har-har. (While we may fear for the intelligence of half the country, at least the majority of Portland knew enough to "#Don't Rank Rene.")

Per prelim results Tues (subject to change):

Wilson got 36% of 1st-choice votes, nearly 2x that of Gonzalez or Rubio.

Our Oct poll (30% undecided) showed RG 23% of 1st-choice, Wilson 18%.

Many thought RG would get up to 35%.

Instead, he cratered.https://t.co/05C4hPAi6J https://t.co/kOJ4jLaBVO

— Shane Dixon Kavanaugh (@shanedkavanaugh) November 6, 2024

• In the race for a new—and hopefully greatly improved—Portland City Council, here are the current leaders (expect another ballot drop from the county at 6 pm tonight) in each district... as described with emojis:

DISTRICT 1 (East Portland): Candace Avalos ????, Loretta Smith ????, and Jamie Dunphy ????.

DISTRICT 2 (North Portland): Current City Commissioner Dan Ryan ????, along with candidates Sameer Kanal ????, and Elana Pirtle-Guiney ????.

DISTRICT 3 (Central and Southeast Portland): Angelita Morillo ????, Tiffany Koyama Lane ????, and Steve Novick ????.

DISTRICT 4 (West Portland/Downtown/Sellwood): Olivia Clark ????, Mitch Green ????, and Eric Zimmerman ????.

In short, our newest city council so far has a progressive majority, which will be especially helpful in facing the next four years of YOU KNOW WHO ????.

• Meanwhile there were two races of note for Multnomah County Commissioners: Megan Moyer was elected as commissioner for District 1 and Shannon Singleton will represent District 2 on the County Board of Commissioners. Moyer defeated Vadim "I'll run for any office that will have me... what do you mean they won't have me?" Mozyrsky, while Shannon Singleton (who is soundly beating Sam "Second most unlikable politician in town" Adams) will most likely represent District 2. Another big progressive win.

• And how did the state measures fare? As of this morning, Measure 115 (allowing the Oregon state legislature to impeach and remove awful elected politicians) is winning big, 63 percent to 37 percent. Measure 116 (giving an independent commission the power to set salaries for some state lawmakers) is most likely a "no," and is leading the "yes" vote count by 10 percent. Measure 117 (implementing ranked-choice voting for state and federal offices) is sadly a big "NO" after being defeated 60 to 40 percent. The nice, but misguided Measure 118 (establishing a minimum tax on certain corporations, with the proceeds going toward a $1600 tax rebate for all Oregonians) went down in flames 79 to 21 percent, and Measure 119 (making it easier for cannabis workers to unionize) is also a probable "YES," currently leading the "no thank you's" by ten percent.

• As expected, it was a good night for Democrats running for state office, with Tobias Read winning Oregon Secretary of State, Elizabeth Steiner taking the state treasurer position, and Dan Rayfield snapping up the Attorney General spot. And while Dems Maxine Dexter, Andrea Salinas, Val Hoyle, and Suzanne Bonamici won their races for US Representative, the most closely watched federal contest in the state is still nail-bitingly close: Dem Janelle Bynum currently leads GOP darling Lori Chavez-DeRemer by two percentage points.

Stay tuned to the Mercury over the next few days, as more election results are solidifying! And don't forget to check out our Election Night Live Blog for all the blow-by-blows from last night's rollercoaster of events.

IN OTHER LOCAL NEWS THAT IS ALSO IMPORTANT:

• Well, this is some bullshit: In a blatant attempt at impotent, political grandstanding, Commissioner (and mayoral loser) Rene Gonzalez and fellow stooges Mingus Mapps and Dan Ryan are scheduled to vote tomorrow to sink the current homelessness agreement it has with Multnomah County—and even more inexplicably insane—they don't even have a backup plan to replace it. Oh, but wait... there's more: This ridiculous, thoughtless stunt will cost the city $40 million that we don't have. (The new city council cannot arrive soon enough.) Our Courtney Vaughn has the infuriating details. 

• In a very different way to spend election night, two people were arrested and their cars towed following a street racing takeover event in North Portland. (Apropos of nothing, I voted for Tokyo Drift as my fave Fast & Furious movie.)

IN NATIONAL ELECTION NEWS:

• Well fartz, here we go again: Convicted felon and twice impeached former president Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris (in case you didn't hear). And while the GOP also held on to the Senate (Jeeeeesus Ch-rist!), the House is still a toss-up and we won't hear for awhile about who won the presidential popular vote—though cash money says it'll be Kamala. And while I'm certain we'll all be hearing a lot of "blame game" antics today, try to resist pointing fingers at fellow Dems. The blame lies alone with those who refuse to educate themselves or be educated, and who let fear and racism rule their existence. Don't be one of them.

Donald Trump — the twice impeached former president, Jan. 6 coup leader, convicted felon, adjudicated sexual abuser, and man who mismanaged the 2020 economic implosion and coronavirus disaster that killed more than 1 million people in this country — has convinced American voters… pic.twitter.com/9cd0luvTFF

— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) November 6, 2024

• Abortion was also on the ballot last night, with pro-abortion activists winning in seven states (Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, New York, and possibly Missouri), while three other states (Florida, Nebraska, and South Dakota) kept their draconian bans in place.

• The best headline of the day so far: "Sarah McBride becomes the first out transgender person elected to Congress." ????????????????

• In less-than-optimal election headlines: "Texas Sen. Ted Cruz will win reelection and defeat Democrat Colin Allred, CNN projects." "The world's right-wing leaders celebrate Trump's win — but America's allies hint unease." "Trump legal team planning to move swiftly to get all criminal cases brought to a halt." And possibly the most obvious headline of the day: "Racism, sexism partly to blame for Harris defeat."

They want you to feel powerless and surrender and let them trample everything and you are not going to let them. You are not giving up, and neither am I. The fact that we cannot save everything does not mean we cannot save anything and everything we can save is worth saving.

— Rebecca Solnit/joy is a strategy (@RebeccaSolnit) November 6, 2024

• And finally... let's cleanse that timeline with some good news that—a new baby hippo is in town! (Cold comfort... but right now I'll take it.)

Moo Deng? Who deng? Introducing… Haggis ????????????????????????????

Otto and Gloria have welcomed an ADORABLE pygmy hippo calf! She is doing well, but we’ll be keeping the hippo house closed for the time being so that our expert keepers can keep a close eye on mum and baby at this sensitive time ???????? pic.twitter.com/ceGtARuzyR

— Edinburgh Zoo (@EdinburghZoo) November 4, 2024

With standout jammers and unmatched teamwork, Wheels of Justice dominates the track to claim Women's Flat Track Derby Association's highest honor. by Corbin Smith

On Sunday in beautiful Portland, Oregon, Rose City Rollers' Wheels Of Justice—an all-star squad of the best of the best skaters in Portland’s longtime roller derby league—clinched a 141-104 victory over St. Louis, Missouri’s Arch Rival All-Stars and won the sport's highest honor: the Hydra Trophy.

The teams played neck and neck in a tight first half, but Rose City came out in the second and dominated, due to slick skating from the team’s jammers—who jumped and stomped their way into a series of massive jams, putting the contest so far out of Arch Rival’s reach that a last minute Missouri team revival meant nothing.

This year’s event was the first Women's Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) Global Championship since 2019. The Rollers’ executive director Kim Stegeman, AKA Rocket Mean, told the Mercury the pandemic was particularly hard on derby leagues, which made shoring up a competition field very difficult before now. “The last one we had was in Montreal in 2019, and then, you know, COVID hit," Stegeman said. "Rose City Rollers, we have 12 staff members, so we stayed alive during COVID. But a lot of leagues, who didn’t have staff or couldn't retain their venues—it took a lot of leagues a lot longer, a much greater struggle than Rose City had to come back.” 

Related: How Portland Became a Roller Derby Mecca

As I am a basketball writer drifting into an arena with a camera and some barebones knowledge of the proceedings, this recap will steer clear of hard analysis. But I can tell you this: it was sports. Major sports. 

Rose City Rollers jammer Loren Mutch clears a pack to rack up points for her team,
Wheels of Justice, during the WFTDA Global Championships. Corbin smith Springroll, a jammer for the Wheels of Justice, braces for a hit from Arch Rival
blocker KWoo! during a championship roller derby game Sunday, Nov. 3. corbin smith

Roller derby sets itself apart from mainstream sports in a number of noticeable ways. For one, WFTDA doesn't regulate player athletic wear, beyond team jerseys and safety gear. Personality is a close companion to the athleticism, and skaters can wheel under a nom de plume—such as Oona Roll or OMG WTF. There's also a strong emphasis on participation and teamwork, in place of pursuing excellence and submission to authority.

“People see roller skating and think, ‘I could do that,’" Stegeman explained. “As opposed to, if you're in high school, you don’t look at the soccer team and think, “I could walk on.”

The game itself is a nifty contraption that makes for good viewing. Each team fields five skaters. Four act like football linebackers trying to simultaneously make space for their team's jammer, while also blocking the opposing team’s from racking up points. For our mileage, we told them apart by the stars on their helmets—jammers have one and blockers do not—but of course they're also playing differently. Like in football, these blocking schemes can be quite technical, even as they are also dependent on everyone’s ability to move side to side on roller skates. 

Wheels of Justice blockers Tenacity (front) and Tarantula (back) keep an Arch Rival jammer
contained during the championship game between Portland and St. Louis. corbin smith Fans cheer during the championship game between Portland's Rose City
Rollers and St. Louis, Missouri's Arch Rival Roller Derby. corbin smith

Sooner or later, a jammer breaks out. Whenever this happens—through a spin or a glide past a solid blocking construction, a straight up running leap on roller skates, or a high step that makes my ankles hurt by association—it's an act of genius athletic work. Then, the jammer busts down the track, and when it’s all perfect, they slip past everyone untouched, scoring four points before anyone has a second to think about it. It’s a thing of beauty.

Loren Mutch, one of the Wheels’ jammers, did a lot of this: slipping and sliding to victory on Sunday. At one point, I watched her break out of the pack, sprint through the stretch, confront the pack, avoid everyone, circle the track again, and slip past the defenders to net a whopping 23 points for Rose City.

Even after the team's win, Mutch deflected any attempts at compliment, saying: “I had a lot more penalties than I would have liked, and that was a bummer for me. But I feel like I drew so much courage from my teammates, and my teammates have my back, so it helped put a little fire under me.”

Asked how she learned to slip past a wall of people on roller skates, Mutch credits "a lot of practice." Her teammate, Mia Palau has a different take: “She has magic feet, and she’s a hard worker—seriously the hardest worker in the game.”

“And so is Mia,” Mutch adds. “Mia has one mode, and it’s a hundred percent.”

The two players credit months of practice for the win. Mutch highlights "the trust we have in each other.” Palau notes the team's extensive preparation, saying: "We really study our opponents, respect our opponents, so we always step on the track with our homework already done.”

While the WFTDA Global Championships concluded the all-star season of play, Portlanders can still catch plenty of derby in the Hangar at Oaks’ Amusement Park, 7805 Southeast Oaks Park Way, schedule and more info at rosecityrollers.com

by Anonymous

Hi. Last time this happened, we marched across the Broadway Bridge and it was this magical moment of solidarity and righteous protest. Then someone smashed windows and set dumpsters on fire. The rage is real, but all this accomplished was economic devastation for small businesses downtown (just cuz you smashed a Wells Fargo, doesn't mean the lunch shop next door didn't suffer). If you need to protest, what about a good old fashioned die-in? Physically destroying Portland hurts our neighbors, to the point it almost seems like MAGA plants are trying to discredit legit protesters. Please instead reach out to organizations that are working to help immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, women in need of health care, or whoever you love and will suffer under this administration. Let's thrive, Portland. Fuck the rest of the US, we're what we've got and we need to show up for each other.

Portland’s City Council races are still being tallied, but preliminary results have held firm since Tuesday night. by Taylor Griggs

Multnomah County has released its second round of preliminary results for the Portland mayor and City Council races, adding roughly 47,000 more citywide votes to the election night count. The results are essentially the same as Tuesday’s report, with all leading candidates maintaining their standing from the county’s election night tally. 

Still, the county hasn’t counted all the ballots it’s received—and more ballots are still in the mail—so it’s possible that a larger shift could occur in city races. According to a Multnomah County press release, the county’s Elections Division received a single-day-record number of ballots on Election Day, with voters submitting 132,436 ballots on Tuesday alone. The county has received a total of about 420,000 ballots so far, and is projecting overall turnout will reach 75 percent once it receives all ballots. 

Mayor’s race

Right now, Keith Wilson is sitting at a comfortable lead in the mayoral race, having received about 62 percent of the vote after Wednesday’s final round of elimination in the ranked choice voting (RCV) tally. He maintained a roughly 24 percent lead over Carmen Rubio, who is currently coming in second place in the mayor’s race. According to voting data, Wilson nabbed the number one spot on 35 percent of ballots counted so far. Rubio and Rene Gonzelez were ranked number one by 21 and 19 percent of voters, respectively. 

The latest results were enough for the Oregonian to call the mayor’s race for Wilson, writing there is “no plausible path for Rubio to overcome [Wilson’s] dominating lead.” 

Following the county releasing its second round of preliminary results, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler congratulated Wilson on social media, calling him the city’s “mayor-elect.” 

“Portland’s future is bright and I am committed to supporting you as you transition into your role leading this incredible organization,” Wheeler wrote. “Can’t wait to roll up our sleeves together with the newly elected city council.”

District 1

District 1’s leading candidates are Candace Avalos, Loretta Smith, and Jamie Dunphy. District 1, which includes all of East Portland, has historically seen lower voter turnout than the city at large. So far, about 29,100 votes have been counted in District 1—substantially lower than the number of votes tallied in other districts, despite roughly equal population. 

District 2

In District 2, which includes North and most of Northeast Portland, about 53,700 votes have been counted so far. The leading candidates in this district are current Portland Commissioner Dan Ryan, Elana Pirtle-Guiney, and Sameer Kanal. If their positions hold, Ryan will be the only person currently on Portland City Council to have a spot in City Hall come 2025, despite three of his colleagues running for mayor. 

District 3

Leading District 3—where the county has tallied about 60,200 votes so far—are former Portland Commissioner Steve Novick, Tiffany Koyama Lane, and Angelita Morillo. Novick’s spot on the future City Council is all but certain, considering he reached the 25 percent threshold on the first round of RCV eliminations. Koyama Lane and Morillo also appear to solidly positioned to represent the district that encompasses most of Southeast Portland west of Interstate 205. The candidate currently coming in fourth place, Kezia Wanner, only nabbed 13 percent of the total vote by the last round of eliminations. 

District 4

Olivia Clark, Mitch Green, and Eric Zimmerman are ahead in District 4, which includes Portland’s entire west side, including downtown, plus neighborhoods in inner Southeast Portland including Sellwood. About 56,600 votes have been counted in District 4 so far. Like Novick, Clark secured more than 25 percent of the vote in the first RCV round, all but securing a Council seat. 

The next RCV results are expected by 6 pm Thursday. By then, about 80 percent of the vote should be counted, spelling out an even more certain picture of what the future City Council will look like. 

Multnomah County Board of Commissioners

Meanwhile, Meghan Moyer and Shannon Singleton have won their seats in the races for seats on the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners. In District 1, Moyer beat her opponent Vadim Mozyrsky, by nearly 20 points. Singleton has been elected to a spot in the county’s District 2, beating former Portland Mayor Sam Adams by more than 10 percent.

by Taylor Griggs

If you’re reading this, you probably know the value of the Mercury’s news reporting, arts and culture coverage, event calendar, and the bevy of events we host throughout the year. The work we do helps our city shine, but we can’t do it without your support. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support! 

Good morning, Portland. I need to keep it real with you—I'm not doing too hot on an emotional level. I know I'm not alone in that feeling. But it's going to be 60 degrees and sunny out today (ahead of cold and rain for days to come) so I recommend going outside, taking a walk, trying to breathe. Now, am I going to do that? HELL NO! Just as your elementary school teachers lived in the school, I live in the computer and I cannot get out, even when it would serve me and others to do so. Okay, fine—I will try to take a short walk today. But you have to, too. I'm going to stop talking to myself now because I know what you came here for was the NEWS, not little platitudes about self-care. But, I mean, we should take care of ourselves. 

IN LOCAL NEWS: 

• THE SECOND ROUND OF CITY COUNCIL RESULTS ARE IN...and nothing has changed. Well, okay, the candidates who were leading on election night are still in good positions to win, though Multnomah County has more than 100,000 ballots left to count (and more are likely en route to the Elections Office).

Right now, it's looking like there's going to be a pretty solid progressive majority on City Council, with candidates Tiffany Koyama Lane and Mitch Green (both endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America) in good positions to win a seat. Other notable progressive candidates in the top three of their districts include Candace Avalos (D1), Sameer Kanal (D2), and Angelita Morillo (D3). This evening's drop should bring a bit more certainty, but there's good reason for optimism.

Business poured a ton of money into these races and money was unable to compete with community, a strong ground game, and the literal power of love and friendship (yes I’m talking about me and Tiffany ????)

— Angelita for PDX (@pnwpolicyangel) November 7, 2024

BUT! I buried the lede here, because we do know one thing: Keith Wilson is going to be Portland's next mayor. Current Mayor Ted Wheeler posted his congratulations on social media, and mayoral candidate Rene Gonzalez said he conceded the race. We ranked Wilson second on our list of endorsements, and his win is a pretty resounding disapproval of our current City Council members, three of whom ran mayoral campaigns of their own. Also...our city sure has a type. 

Keith Wilson and Portland's other recent mayors. 

• Commissioners Rene Gonzelez, Mingus Mapps, and Dan Ryan have dropped their controversial, expensive plan to terminate the city's homeless services agreement with Multnomah County. Why? Well, as much as I'd like to think common sense prevailed, it seems more likely that Gonzalez and Mapps are just not in the mood for political stunts following their poor showing in Tuesday's mayoral election. The trio pulled the agenda item to consider terminating the joint homeless response agreement a little more than 24 hours before it was set to be considered by Council today.

And folks, this is a win! Terminating the Homelessness Response Services Intergovernmental Agreement between the city of Portland and Multnomah County would've cost about $40 million in cold hard cash and even more in wasted energy and political capital. Plus, with the intergovernmental agreement dissolution off the table, it's official: Gonzalez really did not do ANYTHING during his short time in Portland City Hall. (And I feel confident saying he will not be productive in his lame duck period.) No matter what happens with the new City Council, it's only uphill from here.  

Last night was a repudiation of this kind of politics. Good to pull it as 2/3 of its sponsors will not even be on the next council. I'm calling on council to also pull the Clean and Safe ESD vote from next week's agenda. Let the next council take that up. https://t.co/I0e6DXbDCB

— Mitch Green for Portland City Council, District 4 (@mitch4portland) November 6, 2024

• If you're looking for some non-election related news, our Corbin Smith has you covered with a wonderful recap and stunning photos from the Women's Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) Global Championship this past weekend, where Portland's roller derby squad won the day. Smith says the roller derby championship was "sports. Major sports." So READ ALL ABOUT IT RIGHT HERE. 

• There's really not much local news available right now that's not related to the election (which is fair and good and obviously important but I figure you guys might want to read about something else for a second of your day). But there is this: Intel is bringing back free coffee and tea for employees. This was an employee benefit it slashed during budget cuts last summer, but in an attempt to improve employee morale, it's back. The chipmaker is currently doing layoffs at its Oregon facility and has cut other, more important employee benefits that will likely not return, but I guess a cost-benefit analysis showed saving money on coffee wasn't worth the fight. If Mike Rogoway at the Oregonian deems it important, who am I to disagree? (That wasn't sarcasm, Rogoway's a great reporter.) 

IN NATIONAL/WORLD NEWS: 

• The country is reacting to the news of a second Trump presidency, and there are obviously some different takes. I took note of a few notable perspectives during the rare moments when I was able to make the outrageously difficult effort to lift my head from my pillow yesterday. Senator Bernie Sanders (of "Bernie would've won" fame) probably said it best, IMO.

Sanders wrote in a statement yesterday that "It should come as no great surprise that a Democratic Party which has abandoned working class people would find that the working class has abandoned them. While the Democratic leadership defends the status quo, the American people are angry and want change." He also acknowledged the futility of asking the "big money interests and well-paid consultants who control the Democratic Party" to "learn any real lessons from this disastrous campaign."

          View this post on Instagram                      

A post shared by Bernie Sanders (@berniesanders)

"Will they understand the pain and political alienation that tens of millions of Americans are experiencing? Do they have any ideas as to how we can take on the increasingly powerful Oligarchy which has so much economic and political power? Probably not," Sanders wrote. 

DAMN. That's harsh but real. I hope others will join Bernie in calling on the Democratic Party to meet the moment instead of handing their ass to the increasingly fascistic Republicans. I do believe the election results also need to fall on the MAGA fools who have sold their soul to the devil in exchange for the promise of cheaper gas, but we aren't going to win by further alienating the working class. The Democrats better start bringing something to the table, or it'll be even more Joever than it is right now. 

• Among the MANY deep concerns I have about Trump's reelection, the climate crisis ranks at the top. Trump is a known climate denier and has stated his desire to boost oil production, get rid of subsidies for electric cars, and overall do a bunch of damage to any small amount of progress we've been able to make on the climate crisis in the last four years. So I'm freaking out, because this issue isn't exactly something we have time to fuck around on. 

Something that made me feel a bit better: Clean energy analysts and activists say though a second Trump administration will make it harder to transition to renewable and clean energy, it won't make it impossible. The market has already embraced clean energy for its financial benefits and the economic devastation that climate change is and will continue to cause. And that's not changing. (Obviously, the free market is not going to solve the climate crisis, but that reality would remain the same under any capitalist president.) 

Also, there are a lot of climate activists and scientists and lawyers who are a lot smarter than I am and already planning their resistance to Trump's inevitably horrible policies. If you, too, are deeply worried about climate action under Trump, consider supporting or joining an environmental organization or law group. Also, ride your bike more. Even if it won't solve the climate crisis on its own, it'll make you feel a little better. 

          View this post on Instagram                      

A post shared by NRDC (@nrdc_org)

Now, topic change needed for my sanity. Sorry.

• A federal labor judge ruled Amazon workers in Alabama should get a third chance to vote on unionizing. The first time warehouse workers at a facility in Bessemer voted about unionizing in 2021, they voted no, but labor officials ruled that Amazon influenced the vote and the result shouldn't be expected. Workers voted again in 2022, but the election was too close to call and has remained in limbo. Now, a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge has ordered a third election. But Amazon, AKA Union Busters R US, will surely contest the decision and continue to stomp union activity wherever it can. And under a Trump NLBR...ugh. The doom is creeping in. Sorry. Just here to report the news. 

• There's a major wildfire in Southern California, just northwest of Los Angeles, prompting evacuation orders for more than 10,000 people. Powerful winds are fanning the flames and the fire has already destroyed dozens of homes and blanketed neighborhoods in smoke. Hoping for more favorable fire-fighting conditions soon.

• Finally, there's this. Happy Thursday. TTYL.

Many people will continue struggling to come to terms with the election results, but there’s still a lot you can do:

1) Be irritable at work
2) Withdraw from people who love you/need you
3) Make an impulsive and self destructive major life decision

— Noah Garfinkel (@NoahGarfinkel) November 6, 2024

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

Who's ready to have some fun? Well, the Mercury is here to help with FREE TICKETS to see some of Portland's best concerts and events—our way of saying thanks to our great readers and spread the word about some fantastic upcoming performances! (Psst... if you want to say thanks to the Mercury, please consider making a small monthly contribution to keep us alive and kickin'!) And oh boy, do we have some fun events coming at ya this week! CHECK IT OUT!

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see Reverend Horton Heat on February 27 at Crystal Ballroom!

Seeing REVEREND HORTON HEAT live is a transformative experience. Flames come off the guitars. Heat singes your skin. There’s nothing like the primal tribal rock & roll transfiguration of a Reverend Horton Heat show. Get your tickets now, or enter to win here!

Crystal Ballroom, 1332 W Burnside, Thurs Feb 27, 8 pm, $35-$50, all ages

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see Des Demonas on November 17 at Polaris Hall!

A favorite of Henry Rollins and Iggy Pop, Washington, DC’s DES DEMONAS blend post punk, funk, blues, psych rock, Afro beat, and more into their own unique sound — listen LIVE when they share new tunes from their highly-anticipated sophomore LP, APOCALYPTIC BOOM! BOOM! Get your tickets now or enter to win a free pair!

Polaris Hall, 635 N Killingsworth Ct, Sun Nov 17, 8 pm, $15, 21+

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see Karina Rykman on November 15 at Mississippi Studios!

She’s opened for Khruangbin, performed on America’s Got Talent, soundchecked with Phish at MSG, and much more — catch dynamic jam rock bassist Karina Rykman LIVE when she returns to Portland! Get your tickets now or enter to win a free pair!

Mississippi Studios, 3939 N Mississippi, Fri Nov 15, 9 pm, $20, 21+

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see Mason Jennings on November 16 at Mississippi Studios!

Hawai’i-born, Minneapolis-based folksinger Mason Jennings returns to Mississippi Studios with tunes from his latest record, Holy Dive, and beyond! Get your tickets now or enter to win a free pair!

Mississippi Studios, 3939 N Mississippi, Sat Nov 16, 8 pm, $30, 21+

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see The Bygones on November 17 at Aladdin Theater!

Luminous indie folk duo The Bygones share nostalgic songwriting from their debut, self-titled release! Get your tickets now or enter to win a free pair!

Aladdin Theater, 3017 SE Milwaukie, Sun Nov 17, 8 pm, $25, all ages

• Enter to WIN FREE TICKETS to see Sam Grisman Project on November 16 at Aladdin Theater!

A longtime Dawg Trio member with his father David Grisman, Bay Area bass player Sam Grisman upholds the legacy of Dawg music with his new musical project. Don’t miss their return to Portland! Get your tickets now or enter to win a free pair!

Aladdin Theater, 3017 SE Milwaukie, Sat Nov 16, 8 pm, $32.50, all ages

GOOD LUCK! Winners will be notified on Monday. Check back next week for more FREE TIX from the Mercury!

Plus, More Event Updates for November 7 by EverOut Staff

English pop-rock legend Sting has added a second Bend date on 3.0, his ongoing tour during which he’s playing in a trio. Post-hardcore band Chiodos is coming to Portland next year to celebrate 20 years of their debut album All’s Well That Ends Well. Plus, Billboard-charting hard rock outfit Catch Your Breath has dropped dates for their Broken Souls tour. Read on for details on those and other newly announced events, plus some news you can use.

ON SALE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8

MUSIC

Catch Your Breath - The Broken Souls Tour
Hawthorne Theatre (Feb 7, 2025)

Chiodos: 20 Years of All’s Well That Ends Well
Roseland Theater (Mar 29, 2025)

Railroad Earth
Revolution Hall (Jan 26, 2025)

by Suzette Smith

The Mercury provides its readers with interesting and useful news & culture reporting every single day. If you appreciate that, consider making a small monthly contribution to support our editorial team. If you read something you like, something you don't like but are glad to know about, and/or something you can't find anywhere else consider a one-time tip. It all goes in the same pot and it all goes to the editorial team. Thanks for your support!

Good Morning, Portland! We're still "turning and turning in the widening gyre" over here, and we may be for quite some time.

IN LOCAL NEWS:
• Last night's round of election results arrived without any notable changes in the Portland City Council races. News editor Courtney Vaughn writes: "With Keith Wilson securing the mayor’s seat the day prior, results in City Council districts largely held firm."

• While the national election results have been [understatement incoming] pretty distressing, local races are lined with silver. The Columbian reports Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has maintained her lead over far-right, perennial challenger Joe Kent. The Oregonian has a good breakdown of the race and history of Gluesenkamp Perez's hard-fought win.

• PCC Automotive Service Technology Program instructor Jay Kuykendall has been named this year's Educator of the Year by the North American Council of Automotive Teachers, Portland Tribune reports. "Kuykendall oversees the auto shop lab and teaches engine performance classes, along with elective courses like Subaru U, electrified vehicles and light-duty diesel."

• Beloved local coffee chain Jim and Patty's Coffee announced earlier this week that it will close its remaining two locations, in Beaverton and in Portland, on November 11. "Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your support..." owner Patty Roberts wrote. "Now I will need to find a job. If anyone has any ideas for an old lady who has been off the job market for over 40 years, let me know!" ???? For more backstory, check out this Mercury piece about the struggling coffee shops from October.

• There was once a time in Portland when one could easily—well, depending on connection issues—rent a cheery little blue and white hybrid car to drive. The little smart cars were great for unforgiving rain showers and surprisingly solid in the snow. Car2Go merged with Reachnow in 2018, then tanked in 2019. In 2021, Free2Move announced it would drop a "fleet of 200 Jeep Renegades" for Portland consumers to rent, but the cumbersome cars departed once more in 2023. This week MSN reposted that story from 2023, so some people have been letting us know about it. Sorry about MSN, and this all happened last year. Still fun to revisit this tweet:

so let me get this straight

car2go joins sharenow, while reachnow becomes reachnow pic.twitter.com/gJi7R6YZ8e

— Cabel Sasser (@cabel) March 4, 2019

• Politicians are politicians, but I find Sen. Jeff Merkley's vibe calming:

          View this post on Instagram                      

A post shared by Senator Jeff Merkley (@senjeffmerkley)

• Every week, the Mercury gives out free tickets to local shows and this week we've got sweet tix for Reverend Horton Heat, Des Demonas, Karina Rykman and moooore—check'm out and win with our Free Ticket Thursday giveaway!

IN NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL NEWS:
• I can't immediately find who said this, but I think it's a valid concern: As we watch the transition back to a Trump administration presidency, the cabinet appointments are probably going to feel like being repeatedly punched in the face. President-elect Donald Trump named Florida strategist Susie Wiles as his White House chief of staff on Thursday. Wiles has run his political operation for nearly four years, making her one of the few people to survive at his side for any length of time. What's Wiles deal? Nepo baby. Ronald Reagan campaign staffer. Wiles has been credited with putting Rick Scott in Florida's governor’s office. Associated Press has a nice, long profile on her this morning. Is she going to tear the tampon machine out of the White House bathroom again? We're watching.

• A Biden administration initiative known as “Keeping Families Together” was struck down by a Texas-based US District judge yesterday; Judge J. Campbell Barker argued that the Biden administration had overstepped its authority with its attempt to lessen barriers to citizenship for undocumented immigrants married to US citizens.

• Soccer fans did violence again, but this time it might be motivated by cultural and political friction. NPR reports that "leading political figures in the Netherlands have condemned the violence that followed a match between a Dutch team Ajax and Tel Aviv's Maccabi. According to NPR, "Dutch police said 62 people have been arrested following several clashes." Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema described local men seeking out Israeli fans on scooters. Dutch police chief Peter Holla said fans of Tel Aviv Maccabi had "set a Palestinian flag on fire in the city and attacked a taxi." Dutch authorities have banned demonstrations through the weekend.

• Happy Martian New Year... soon! In Scientific American Phil Plait writes: "Why would anyone pick November 12 as New Year’s Day for Mars? And why does our official reckoning of Martian time set the eons-old Red Planet only in its 38th year? The answer involves a combination of natural cycles and the human need to impose order via somewhat arbitrary timekeeping—pretty much like on Earth."

• And now we part—wishing a fine weekend to my naysayers and hatchet men in the fight against violence.

Frybread Fest, Gobble Up, and More Cheap & Easy Events Under $15 by EverOut Staff

Well Portland, it's been a hard week and there are difficult days yet ahead. Take care of yourselves and each other this weekend. If you're looking for something to do to take your mind off things, we're recommending events from Frybread Fest to John's Marketplace 25th Anniversary Celebration and from Gobble Up to Northwest Animal Companions' Cat Adoption Fair. For more ideas, check out our guide to the top events of the week.

FRIDAY COMEDY

Small Fruits - Queer Comedy
I am a strong believer in a cute little night out, and this, dear reader, fits the bill. Hosted by "dynamic duo" No Sex and the City, whose lackluster love lives must give them a lot of time to practice their improv skills, Small Fruits invites attendees who are "navigating perpetual singlehood or basking in newfound love." It promises to be fun, gay, and "leave you smitten," which seems ideal. Plus, Small Fruits features a roster of local, "delightfully humble queer improvisers." Humility isn't a trait I typically look for in comedians, but sure, why not? LINDSAY COSTELLO
(Kickstand Comedy, Ladd's Addition, $10-$15)

Pasta, Dumplings, and More by EverOut Staff For obvious reasons, I suspect we could all use some soul-warming nourishment to bolster our spirits right about now. We've compiled this list of fortifying options, including noodle soups, pizza, dumplings, pasta, soul food, and more, so you can get your comfort food fix. For more ideas, check out our food and drink guide. PIZZA

Apizza Scholls
Serious Eats founder Ed Levine once dubbed this "Neo-Neapolitan" pizza destination "one of the top five pizzerias in America."
Sunnyside

Crumbl Cookies, Hawaiian Plate Lunches, and Two New Spots for Book Lovers by EverOut Staff Avid readers are in luck, as two bookish new businesses hit the local food and drink scene. Plus, the social media sensation Crumbl Cookies makes its debut in Eliot today, and Bugatti's Ristorante in West Linn bids farewell. For more ideas, check out our guide to comfort food in Portland and our food and drink guide.

NEW OPENINGS & RETURNS

Bold Coffee and Books
Couple Tim and Ali Shaw hosted the grand opening of this coffee shop/bookstore with a focus on diverse authors in October. Ali has two decades of experience in the book industry, while Tim has spent 22 years in counseling and social work. Their menu includes coffee, tea, and specialty drinks like the "Honeybunch" (espresso, steamed oat milk, condensed milk, honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon), as well as items like breakfast burritos and bagels.
Goose Hollow

Portland will have the most racially diverse City Council the city has ever seen, with a progressive majority. by Courtney Vaughn

A fourth round of preliminary election results was released Friday, showing little to no changes in presumptive winners. That means Portlanders now have a clear idea of what the city's future leadership will be, come January.

Portland City Council is likely to have a progressive majority and for the first time, and a roughly 40 percent BIPOC Council.

Portland Mayor-elect Keith Wilson is slated to receive onboarding and training at City Hall starting next month, before the new City Council and mayor are sworn in in January.

City Council races

In District 1, Candace Avalos, who previously ran for a seat on Portland City Council and served on Portland's Charter Commission, is leading handily and is a presumptive winner. She will most likely serve alongside former Multnomah County Commissioner Loretta Smith and Jamie Dunphy, whose career has been spent helping to shape public policy while formerly working for US Sen. Jeff Merkley and the late Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish. Dunphy has recently led the charge to stop a Live Nation music venue from being developed in Southeast Portland. While Dunphy is leading for third place, he currently sits at just 23 percent, which is less than the 25 percent threshold for election. County officials say that can happen when ballots become "exhausted." Dunphy will likely still win election.

In District 2, Elana Pirtle-Guiney, Sameer Kanal, and current City Commissioner Dan Ryan are all but guaranteed Council seats. The latest results show Ryan and Pirtle-Guiney were neck-and-neck in first-round counts, with just 73 votes separating the two. Pirtle-Guiney is a labor organizer and member of former Gov. Kate Brown's executive team. She also led the charge for Oregon Measure 114, which sought to limit gun magazine capacity and add a required permit for gun ownership. The measure passed but is currently held up in a court battle. Kanal served as the project manager for Portland's Police Accountability Commission and also serves on the city's Parks & Recreation Board.

District 3 saw Steve Novick, a former city commissioner, pull off a first-round win, guaranteeing his return to City Hall. He will be joined by elementary school teacher Tiffany Koyama Lane and nonprofit policy advocate Angelita Morillo, who were nearly tied with 19 percent of the overall vote in round one counts. Both Koyama Lane and Morillo ran on a progressive agenda, with Koyama Lane picking up an endorsement from Portland's Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Candidates in District 3 will be up for election again in two years.

In District 4, Olivia Clark, a communications professional who previously worked in Gov. John Kitzhaber's office, secured a first-round win Thursday. She'll be one of three city councilors representing the district that includes Southwest Portland, including downtown, and small portions of Southeast Portland like Sellwood. Along with Clark, energy economist Mitch Green is a presumptive winner. Green emerged as easily the most progressive front-runner candidate in District 4, securing an endorsement from the Portland DSA. The third-place winner is appears to be political insider Eric Zimmerman, though first-round results show him with less than a percentage point lead over Eli Arnold and the race is still close.  Both candidates secured 11 percent of the overall vote in round one counts. Zimmerman previously worked in Mayor Ted Wheeler's office and currently works for Multnomah County Commissioner Julia Brim Edwards. Arnold is a Portland police officer. District 4 seats will be up for election again in two years.

Congressional race

In a closely watched federal race for Oregon's 5th Congressional District, Democrat Janelle Bynum secured a win over Republican incumbent Lori Chavez DeRemer, flipping the US House seat from red to blue. Other winners include incumbent Suzanne Bonamici in the 1st District and Maxine Dexter in the 3rd Congressional District.

By Friday, the vast majority of ballots were received and counted, though the Multnomah County Elections Office says it still has about 45,000 ballots to count. Overall voter turnout in Multnomah County is now hovering around 71 percent.

Results won’t be finalized until Dec. 2.

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

If you’re reading this, you probably know the value of the Mercury’s news reporting, arts and culture coverage, event calendar, and the bevy of events we host throughout the year. The work we do helps our city shine, but we can’t do it without your support. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support!

GOOD MORNING, PORTLAND! ????

Who's had a busy weekend of actively IGNORING all the spectacularly bad takes following last week's election? Wow, these so-called Democrats are the only people I know who, instead of blaming the actual people involved, love kicking each other in the scrabble bag when they're disappointed. Even worse, a few of these bad actors are saying we should have capitulated to the white supremacists and the hateful half of the country that voted for Trump... as if that would have somehow changed the outcome? LOL! Make a note, friends... despite the fact that a sizable part of the nation is in thrall of a convicted felon/cult leader, we should NEVER water down our ethics or sense of justice to appease people who want the rest of us (and especially marginalized communities) to stop existing. If you absolutely must blame someone, try focusing your ire on those who refuse to properly educate themselves and have lost their moral compass. Our pathway is UP—the rest of 'em can either keep up or get the fuck out of the way. 

And that's your Monday Morning Mini-Rant™—now, let's look at some NEWS!

IN LOCAL NEWS:

• Local election update! Now that only a very few votes (4,000 as of Saturday) are left to be counted, I think it's safe to say "OH, HELLO THERE!" to our newest incoming mayor, Keith Wilson, and our new city council, which is as follows: District 1: Candace Avalos, Loretta Smith, and (probably) Jamie Dunphy (waiting for the final count to clarify that one); District 2: Elana Pirtle-Guiney, Sameer Kanal, and current City Commissioner Dan Ryan ????; District 3: Steve Novick, Tiffany Koyama Lane, and Angelita Morillo; and District 4: Olivia Clark, Mitch Green, and most likely Eric Zimmerman... or possibly cop Eli Arnold (neither are great). In any case, that right there is a majority progressive council, with a few Portland Business Alliance puppets thrown in—which in theory should make the ever-conniving big business/realtor community happy, but rest assured they'll be pulling some anti-democratic shenanigans before you know it. Keep an eye on 'em! ????

Portland: Our new mayor Keith Wilson shows encouraging signs on transportation, above all his obsession with observation and data. Good profile by Jonathan Maus at Bike Portland.

bikeportland.org/2024/11/07/p...

[image or embed]

— Jarrett Walker (@humantransit.bsky.social) November 10, 2024 at 12:56 PM

• In other good election news, in the hotly contested (and way too close) Oregon's 5th Congressional District race, Democrat Janelle Bynum scored a win over Republican incumbent Lori Chavez DeRemer, flipping the US House seat from red to blue! While there is currently a narrow path to victory for House Democrats, it's still very tight—so at this moment, every Democrat win counts. (And in case you missed it, in Washington state, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is the presumptive winner in the 3rd Congressional District, beating out dipshit MAGA candidate Joe Kent.)

• In the first baller move of his administration, mayor-elect Keith Wilson allegedly pressured current city commissioners Rene Gonzalez, Mingus Mapps, and Dan Ryan into dropping their theatrical stunt to end Portland's homelessness services agreement with Multnomah County. As our Courtney Vaughn reported, the three crybaby candidates were threatening to end the deal with the county, even though it would cost the city $40 million to do so. But according to Ryan—who is now furiously backpedaling on his bonehead decision—Wilson called the trio, and "made it clear that he would like us to take that off the table.... So out of respect for the new mayor, it just was good manners." HAAAAAAAAA! Right. Or maybe it was that Gonzalez and Mapps' run for mayor just blew up in their faces, and Ryan was left alone in the wilderness holding this particular bag of shit. In any case, an absolutely embarrassing way to end their obstructive, but mostly useless term—and I am here for it! ????

• The Portland Trail Blazers suffered an absolutely crushing defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies last night... 134-89? OUCH. Terrible shooting, poor defense, and a harsh 23 turnovers reportedly had the normally stoic coach Chauncey Billups reportedly issuing this post-game message to the players: “Anybody that sleeps well tonight, you’re a loser. It’s just that simple." Once again, with feeling: OUCH.

• Today in death: Pioneering climate scientist Warren Washington—who grew up in Portland—has died at the age of 88. Washington is credited with developing early models of global warming. Also, longtime Blazer radio announcer Brian "Wheels" Wheeler has died after an extensive illness; he was 62.

Ahead of the Blood Brothers' sold out show at Revolution Hall next week, we spoke with the band's two frontmen about the group's intense, abstract song lyrics. ⁠ We did not expect: Their shared theater history. The influence of Pulp's Jarvis Cocker.

[image or embed]

— Portland Mercury (@portlandmercury.bsky.social) November 8, 2024 at 12:26 PM

IN NATIONAL/WORLD NEWS:

• Despite exciting Democratic wins in Oregon and Washington, Republicans are getting closer to keeping control of the House, which after capturing the senate would mean that many of Trump's evil schemes could become a reality. Currently the GOP is four congresspeople away from securing the necessary 218 seats; the Dems are at 203. ????

• Trump has chosen former ICE director Tom Homan to serve as his “border czar,” as the incoming president ramps up his plan to launch "the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history" (without presenting a plan on how it can be done or the billions it will cost us now and in the future). The recently elected convicted felon has also picked longtime loyalist/minion Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York to become the next US ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik is a staunch supporter of Israel and their genocide, and has pushed for ending relief to war-torn Palestinians. The only potential good news here: Taking Stefanik out of her current job could lead Republicans into losing the House.

This is not great

[image or embed]

— Molly Jong-Fast (@mollyjongfast.bsky.social) November 11, 2024 at 7:49 AM

• In escaped monkey news: Twenty-four out of 43 monkeys who escaped a South Carolina research lab last week have been recovered—and staff has eyes on another "sizable" group. Locals are being advised to avoid touching the monkeys, and instead call 911. (Take it from someone who briefly lived there, South Carolina hates it when you touch your monkey.)

Your body, my choice

[image or embed]

— Berit Glanz (@beritmiriam.bsky.social) November 11, 2024 at 2:23 AM

• Toymaker Mattel has apologized for accidentally including a porn website address on packaging for dolls from the upcoming movie Wicked. The company is advising parents to either throw away the packaging or obscure the web address before kids accidentally stumble on to any "Two Witches, One Cup" videos. (On a scale of one-to-ten, how mad are you at me right now? I'm at, like, a seven.)

• And finally... a visual representation of what will happen to the economy five minutes after Trump takes office:

@vehiculeracing -caniparkhere? #boat ♬ original sound  - VÉHICULE

by Elinor Jones

What's happening Trash Pandas? Welcome back to the Trash Report. I am Elinor Jones and I am not doing well! Lucky for us, things have been shitty often enough and recently enough that we can disassociate and do our silly little activities. How fortunate we are to live in times that challenge us! JK! I hate it!!

Elections Trash

Well my friends, I guess we didn't coconut hard enough, because Donald Trump is headed back to the White House. A lot of people will have a lot of thoughtful breakdowns in the coming weeks and months about what went wrong, but it seems pretty obvious to me that we live in a country that hates women—Black women especially—and they like Trump. It sucks, but usually the simplest explanation is the correct one. Ad buys in Pennsylvania or door knocking in Michigan wouldn't have changed the fact that people hate women and like Trump, and even if they didn't totally love Trump, they were at least more comfortable with him in power than with a woman. Democrats spent a billion dollars to try to educate voters on why Trump is bad, but it didn't work; people know he's bad, they just don't care, or they like that part about him. They like how Trump talks more than they like the way Democrats talk, especially Democrats who are women. This handwringing about like "oh, if only people understood the real issues" and like: no. We're past that. Issues don't matter. Not only do people not care, but it also makes Democrats even less likable when we're trying to scold them over to our side. During one of my spirals I realized how weird it is that there isn't even a phrase like "owning the libs" for chuds? Like, us bullying them into silence or an embarrassing hissy fit isn't even on the damn table. Why is that? What are we doing? In hindsight the best messaging of the entire campaign was when everybody laughed at J.D. Vance for fucking a couch; if we could have had more like that in play instead of Liz fucking Cheney reminding us that Kamala Harris is pro-military and celebrities who will never worry about money insisting that Biden's economy is good, actually, we probably could have could probably have gotten some people (who voted only off vibes) to like ours better, although probably not enough to convince people not to hate women. As you can tell, I am very, very angry! Most of it is directed at Joe Biden. He should have run in 2016, he should not have run in 2020, he shouldn't have attempted a reelection campaign this year, and then he should have dropped out faster when the writing was on the wall after the debate in June. End rant. (For now. There's still a lot of juice in this tank, and it's gonna be a loooong four years.)

Portland: Inspirational!

Trump promised RFK Jr a role overseeing health in his new administration, and the first order of business floated is removing fluoride from our nation's drinking water. This captured headlines for its absurdity. "Why in the world would we not take such an easy and impactful action to help everybody, but especially poor children, have healthier teeth? What anti-science freakshows would take issue with fluoride in the water?" "Wow, yeah, totally," said the city of Portland as we pulled our shirt collars up around our faces and sought an immediate exit from the conversation. Being part of a Venn diagram where one circle is RFK Jr. and the other circle is Portland and the middle part is "fluoride = bad" is not a good look for us.

In other news, fans allege that someone attending a recent Sabrina Carpenter concert squatted and peed in the middle of the pit before the show started. Knowing that Carpenter had just played in Portland, when I saw the headline about someone being gross at a show, I immediately assumed that it happened here. I was wrong—it was San Francisco—but that is the kind of national news I'd like our city to make and not "RFK Jr approves of Portland's municipal health initiatives." Let's go back to "Portland Sucks." Nationally, it's an easier place for us to be.

Wicked Merch

The thing that might divide my family this Thanksgiving is not politics—we are all aligned there, thank God—but whether we should first see Moana 2 or Wicked. We are leaning Moana 2, mostly because this Disney sequel is shockingly not the one unleashing inescapable product tie-ins everywhere I look. Speaking of which, the folks at Mattel did so by putting a link to a porn site on the packaging for some Glinda and Elphaba dolls and had to apologize and issue a recall. LOL. I can imagine the exhausted and overworked marketing associate who's trying to stave off sleep by occasionally watching some adult content and deliriously copy-pasting the wrong link. Look, you mass produce 10,000 different green and pink items, you're bound to screw up something.  

In other Wicked news, director Jon Chu missed the LA premiere because his wife went into labor and gave birth to a baby girl. The baby is the couple's fifth; a full three of those five children were born during the development and filming of Wicked. His wife may have told him she was proud of him, but her body was clearly saying "no sir, we are not doing that anymore." And she feels like five kids is plenty, but knows that Wicked 2 is only a year away and is debating whether a sixth baby could keep that press buzz out of their family life.

AOTY When?

Grammy nominations came out last week, and women came out on top. Imagine if Kamala Harris won the White House during the same week that Beyoncé became the most nominated artist in Grammy history? We could have been so happy, and so annoying. Etsy would have gotten absolutely filthy with throw pillow bearing feminist catchphrases. This column would have been damn near unreadable, even more so than usual. The gods took a look at us American women as our souls threatened to leave our bodies with how badly we (at least most of us) needed a win, and said "they simply cannot have both things" and went with Grammys instead of the presidency, which isn't the direction I would have gone, but I am not a god. Yet.

Fugitive Animals

A passenger got video of a raccoon falling out of the ceiling at La Guardia airport in New York City. La Guardia had just been named America's Best Airport, taking the coveted spot that PDX usually holds, and you know what? I agree. We simply need more raccoons. Trash Pandas: assemble.

Meanwhile down in South Carolina, 43 monkeys escaped a research facility and are currently on the loose. Authorities are advising residents to lock their windows, and I would definitely have a hard time doing that. I think they would like me. It's like how at Yellowstone they have to put up all the signs advising people not to approach bears. While I understand the reason for the signs, I also believe that I am a person who a bear would allow to pet it. I think monkeys would feel the same way. Any other indoor kids read Summer of the Monkeys? It's a book about a circus train that derailed and a bunch of monkeys got loose and they finally trusted one young man to return them to captivity. I think I could be that young man. Call me, South Carolina. 

I'm gonna be honest, Trash Pandas: I could keep writing this column all night. I didn't want to start working on it, but as I've been writing, and reflecting, and trying to put words to all the big things I feel, I have to admit that Doing Something does feel better than doing nothing, even though doing nothing is so tempting. We may not have fluoridated water, and we may not be pissing on the floors at arena concerts (yet), but we have each other, and I'm very grateful for that.

Togetherly,

Amy Sedaris, QDoc Film Festival, and More by EverOut Staff

Stay busy with some of the many top-notch events happening this week, from Amy Sedaris to the QDoc Film Festival and from BrewLights at the Oregon Zoo to opening weekend of the Portland Winter Ice Rink. And check out our November events guide to see what the rest of the month has in store.

MONDAY READINGS & TALKS

Amy Sedaris
Referring to someone as "whimsical" feels vaguely off-putting, but I'm not sure there's a better word to describe Amy Sedaris—the host of the Emmy-nominated series At Home with Amy Sedaris was just as comfortable making raisin necklaces and popsicle stick buddies as she was gutting a fish. Although the series was canceled after three seasons, I look back on it fondly as a reflection of my early pandemic days, when making sense of the world meant baking a sourdough bread loaf shaped like a mermaid (true story). Find out what Sedaris is cooking up next at this live talk, moderated by "professional nervous person" Courtenay Hameister. LINDSAY COSTELLO
(Revolution Hall, Buckman)

by Courtney Vaughn

The Mercury provides news and fun every single day—but your help is essential. If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us. Thanks for your support!

Good morning, Portland! Take a deep breath. Hold for six seconds. Exhale. 

We might be treated to some fleeting morning sunshine, but for the most part, expect more rain with a high of 54 degrees and a low of 50. 

Let's catch up on what's happening in our city and around the world.

In Local News: 

• Important fox update! The young arctic white fox spotted in Portland a few weeks ago is now in the care of the Bird Alliance of Oregon. Last Friday, the Bird Alliance posted an update, noting the fox was likely illegally kept in captivity in Oregon. And while the fox sniffed out and found several mice hidden for her around her enclosure, it’s unlikely she’d survive in the wilderness. The organization reports the fox is in good health and they’re looking for a permanent home for her with a wildlife agency.

          View this post on Instagram                      

A post shared by Bird Alliance of Oregon (@birdallianceoforegon)

• The body of a missing hiker was found in Mt. Hood National Forest last Friday. Police say 33-year-old James Robert MacDonald was found by search and rescue crews after his family reported he didn’t return from a hike Wednesday, Nov. 6. KATU reports MacDonald had four children, including 1-year-old twins, and was finishing a radiology residency at OHSU.

This is the second major search conducted for a missing hiker in Mt. Hood National Forest in less than two weeks. Last Tuesday, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office found a missing mushroom hunter in densely forested terrain as he exited the Eagle Creek Trail. He was found “cold and wet” but otherwise in good health.

• Dozens of Portlanders and local organizations have signed on to a letter urging the Portland City Council to postpone a vote on a contract that would funnel more money into the Portland Metro Chamber. This Wednesday, City Council is likely to approve the expansion of one of the city’s Enhanced Service Districts, Downtown Clean & Safe. The expansion also accompanies a $58 million contract renewal for Clean & Safe. Enhanced Service Districts are special districts where property owners pay a tax to fund extra security services and cleanups around the district. If it were any other organization or even any other ESD, few would bat an eye at the contract renewal, but Downtown Clean & Safe is essentially operated by the Portland Metro Chamber (formerly the Portland Business Alliance). The city funnels millions of district tax dollars into this no-bid contract, to give ESD ratepayers–most of which are downtown businesses–an added layer of private security, as well as trash and graffiti removal. While plenty of folks are supportive of the extra services, quite a few Portlanders, including condo owners in the district, say the contract arrangement is barely ethical, and serves primarily to funnel taxpayer money into the Metro Chamber, which is one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the city. There are few, if any, checks and balances on the contract. Aside from ethical concerns, condo owners in the Downtown Clean & Safe ESD say they are being charged for services they already pay for through their Homeowners Associations and city taxes. 

          View this post on Instagram                      

A post shared by Tom Toro (@tbtoro)

• Oregon has repeatedly failed to protect or keep data about the kids in its foster care system who wind up being sex trafficked. If you have an Oregonian subscription, this heartbreaking story is worth a read. The series shines a light on a disjointed foster care system in Oregon that failed to protect more than two dozen foster care children from being sold for sex or "anything of value," including one woman, who's now 21 but ran away with men multiple times and was forced to perform sex acts when she was 16. Multiple teens in foster care are at risk of being sold into prostitution, but for years, the state has been slow to respond and/or failed to identify those at risk, despite federal requirements to keep data on the high-risk teens in state custody.

• It’s World Vegan Month, and Veganizer is partnering with local restaurants to offer fun menu items with a portion of the proceeds from those items going toward local nonprofits. Pssst…going vegan is a great excuse to skip Thanksgiving dinner with any family members you don’t like, or those you’re just not ready to stomach after the election.

• And if you need other things to distract yourself or just need a reason to get out of the house, check the Everout weekly rundown for the best in dining, live music, film, and miscellaneous outings. Looking for a show tonight? Consider watching Salami Rose Joe Louis deliver an experimental fusion of electro-jazz rock (if that's not a thing, it is now) at the Jack London Revue.

In National/World News:

• Yesterday was Veterans Day, and perhaps the most notable event of the day was the posthumous military rank awarded to Civil War-era activist and abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Tubman escaped slavery and went on to help rescue an estimated 70 other people from slavery via the Underground Railroad. Aside from her activism and liberation of others, she's also regarded as the first woman to lead an armed combat regimen for the Union during the Civil War. In 1863, Tubman led 150 African American Union soldiers in a raid that ultimately rescued an estimated 700 slaves. For her efforts, Tubman was named a one-star brigadier general in the Maryland National Guard.

•In a move that feels like the Trump agenda is already setting in, the Intercept lays out a bill scheduled to be voted on next week with bipartisan support that would essentially allow the government to revoke tax exemption from any nonprofit organizations it deems to have a connection to terrorism or support terrorism. HR 9495, the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, would give the US Treasury secretary the power to notify any organization that its tax-exempt status will be revoked. The nonprofit will have 90 days to appeal. The ACLU is sounding the alarm, noting a bill of that magnitude would only serve to chill free speech and other activities of orgs that don’t align with Trump’s political allies or agenda. The fact that this bill was introduced is a likely indicator that members of Congress and US government officials already have a few nonprofits in mind. 

I want to be absolutely clear. Having reviewed the text of the law, it is, quite possibly, the most unconstitutional bill I have ever encountered during my time as a legal professional. It makes the Patriot Act look like an appropriations bill. It’s the modern equivalent of the Sedition Act of 1798.

— ????️‍⚧️ June Licinio ✡️ (@jwlicinio.bsky.social) November 11, 2024 at 2:15 PM

• With just over three months left in President Biden's term, chatter among Democratic senators suggests US Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor should step down so Biden can make a SCOTUS appointment before he leaves office. Sotomayor, 70, hasn't indicated her intention to retire from the court, but with a current Democratic majority in the Senate, some say the time is now for her to step aside and allow for another justice to be appointed by a Democrat president. At least one senator is pushing back on that suggestion. On a recent episode of Meet the Press, Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont told NBC's Kristen Welker he doesn't think it's a good idea. Dems are trying to avoid a repeat of what happened in 2020, when Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg ignored calls for her to step down, then died while still serving. Trump was president, and replaced Ginsberg—often revered as a feminist icon—with conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett.

@postpuunkonline

 

• US transportation safety officials are investigating whether certain models of Hondas and Acuras are prone to engine failure. The AP reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into rod bearing failures that can cause the engines on several makes and models to fail. Honda last year issued a recall to fix the engine problem, but the NHTSA says nearly 175 complaints from vehicle owners who experienced the same engine failure issues, but whose vehicles weren’t included in Honda’s 2023 recall. The issue covers the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX (2016-2020 model years); the Honda Odyssey and Acura TLX (2018 through 2020), and the Honda Ridgeline (2017-2019).

@livviathepig

the gift that keeps on giving

♬ original sound - liv

by Anonymous

Why is there a One Way sign pointing traffic to go the wrong way down a one way street? What does this mean?!?!?

by Anonymous

It might be glum, Sugar Plum, but do not go it alone. Make saying "Hello" to as many people as you can that are in your surroundings. Go invest in a CSA (community supported agriculture) box and share it with friends. Take TriMet everywhere it goes and get everyone you know to do the same. Read Hunter S.Thompson. Learn to cooperate until it's a habit. And know that Pluto in Aquarius is coming in one week leaving the conservative sign, Capricorn, behind. Warmly and with you.

Tell Me More has regularly turned to Alfredo Corchado for insight on Mexico. He gives host Michel Martin one last look into his reporter's notebook.

Tell Me More has been dedicated to covering stories from Africa. Host Michel Martin speaks to NPR's Africa correspondent Ofeibea Quist-Arcton about reporting on the changing continent.

Six years after playing at Tell Me More's first anniversary, the the jazz group performs as the show closes.

Did ESPN's Stephen Smith need to apologize for saying women need to be aware of provocation? The Barbershop guys weigh in.

The host shares some final thoughts before the close of the show.

NPR's A Martinez talks with Cary Baker, author of "Down on the Corner: Adventures in Busking and Street Music."

Global pandemic treaty negotiators are hashing out cooperation plans this week and considering rushing the process out of fear that the Trump administration would pull the U.S. out of negotiations.

Trump makes unconventional picks for top administration positions, a jury awards $42 million to three Iraqi men imprisoned in Abu Ghraib and world leaders are meeting to fight climate change at COP29.

NPR's Michel Martin talks with Edward Whelan of the Ethics and Public Policy Center about President-elect Trump's influence on Senate Republicans' selection of a new majority leader.

Trump has made some unconventional and surprising choices when it comes to his foreign policy and defense team, like his plan to nominate Fox News host Pete Hegseth to be secretary of defense.

Mattel is pulling its Wicked dolls from some store shelves because of a misprint directing shoppers to a pornographic site. Meanwhile, resellers are listing the products on eBay for up to $500.

For a long time Tesla used its own kind of charger plug and had its own supercharger network. That once-exclusive network is opening up to other EV manufacturers.

In a first-best world, we'd all save enough money and there'd be no scammers. In a second-best world, we'd all know how to protect ourselves.

That's what Sheila Bair thought, too. As former chair of the FDIC, she noticed many kids and adults weren't quite getting the education they needed. So, she decided to do something about it.

Today on the show: What Sheila Bair has learned about American capitalism as one of its top regulators and how she's trying — one book at a time — to help new generations from falling into its traps.

We learned about Sheila Bair's kids books from listener Erin Vetter. If you've come across anything that makes finance fun, email us! We're at indicator@npr.org.

Related Episodes:
Mailbag: Children Edition
Beach reads with a side of economics

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

Voters really don't like inflation. In fact, whenever there's a sustained jump in the cost of living, the party in power often pays a price.

Event date: November 21, 2024
Event Time: 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Location:
Fontana City Hall - Flex Room
8353 Sierra Ave
Fontana, CA 92335
Description:
Learn about the five key factors that impact your credit, along with an additional element that holds equal importance to the other five.

In acknowledgment of Women’s History Month Basic Black presents a Women’s Roundtable. This special presentation will be a conversation on the issues and concerns of women of color coming out of the political landscape in this presidential election year. In addition to the wealth income gap and health care reform, we’ll dig deep on issues such as reproductive rights, women of color in political life, and setting the "women's agenda.'"

Our panel this week:

Callie Crossley, host and executive editor, The Callie Crossley Show
Anita Hill, Professor of Social Policy, Law and Women's Studies, Brandeis University
Lani Guinier, Bennett Boskey Professor of Law, Harvard Law School
Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz (MA-2nd Suffolk)
Kim McLarin, Assistant Professor of Writing, Literature and Publishing, Emerson College

Monday March 19th, Professor Anita Hill co-hosts "Disrupting The Script: Raising To Legal Consciousness Sexual Assaults On Black Women." Click on the image to learn more.

This week on Basic Black: In the wake of the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin, a look at Massachusetts' "stand your ground" proposal and recent efforts to pass or block the legislation. Also, the pending Supreme Court decision on the Obama administration's health care reform legislation: however they decide, what are the political ramifications for President Obama's re-election campaign and the impact on communities of color.

Our panel:
- Callie Crossley, host and executive editor, The Callie Crossley Show
- Kim McLarin, author and assistant professor of writing, literature, and publishing, Emerson College
- Peniel Joseph, professor of history, Tufts University
- Phillip Martin, senior reporter, WGBH Radio



(Image source via Creative Commons: xtopalopaquetl)

Originally broadcast on October 26, 2012:

The deadline is fast approaching on a federal mandate for the Boston City Council to pass a plan that reorganizes the city’s voting districts. But there seems to be no clear consensus among council members, nor among many in Boston’s communities of color, on how to do it. The mayor has already vetoed two maps. A coalition representing African American, Asian, and Latino voters has vowed to sue if they are unsatisfied with the council's solution. Emotions are running high, and only ten days remain.

Our panelists:
- Latoyia Edwards, anchor, New England Cable News
- Phillip Martin, senior reporter, 89.7 WGBH Radio
- Kevin C. Peterson, executive director, New Democracy Coalition
- Alejandra St. Guillen, executive director, Oiste
- Sean Daughtry, political action chair, Boston branch, NAACP

Relevant links:
As deadline looms, state of play in redistricting
Gintautas Dumcius, Dorchester Reporter, October 26, 2012

Group pitches alternative voting maps to city council
Jeremy Fox, Boston Globe, September 29, 2012

More city council redistricting maps with Consalvo and Yancey verbal sparring
David Ertischek, Roslindale Patch, October 4, 2012

Redistricting map passes despite objections form Communities of Color Coalition and councilors of color
Mark Liu, Chinese Progressive Association, MySouthEnd.com, August 29, 2012

Boston City Council Census and Redistricting Committee


(Image source: FreeFoto.com)

(Originally broadcast December 14, 2012)

Black churches routinely discuss both scripture and issues like gay marriage and voter suppression,and gun violence. Today’s tragic shooting in Connecticut is a fresh reminder of the ever present violence assaulting so many black communities. What role has the black church played in dealing with the violence? We'll look at that and examine the church's influence in shaping opinion about current issues of the day.

Has the church become too political, or not political enough? Has this institution re-invented itself in order to adequately meet the challenges of changing communities around it?

Panelists:
- Callie Crossley, host and moderator, Boston Public Radio, 89.7 WGBH Radio
- Kim McLarin, assistant professor or writing, literature, and publishing, Emerson College
- Phillip Martin, senior reporter, 89.7 WGBH Radio
- Rev. Paul Robeson Ford, Union Baptist Church of Cambridge
- Rev. Brandon Crowley, Myrtle Baptist Church

February 1, 2013

As 2013 begins the national debate on gun control is in high gear. Advocates from all sides have descended on Washington, DC to sway a divided Congress to their side. But the action isn't limited to the halls of Congress; the persistent issue of gun control is also being debated in local communities across the country. And for communities historically battered by gun violence, the conversation takes on an increased intensity.


Our panel this week:
- Latoyia Edwards, anchor, New England Cable News
- Kim McLarin, assistant professor of writing, literature and publishing, Emerson College
- Phillip Martin, senior reporter, 89.7 WGBH Radio
- Peniel Joseph, professor of history, Tufts University
- Lionel McPherson, associate professor, philosophy, Tufts University



Image source: Change Liu/Flickr

April 5, 2013:

With Mayor Menino's announcement that he would not seek a sixth term, the race for the next mayor of Boston has officially begun. Even as the slate of candidates takes shape, questions are emerging, among them: what is the opportunity for emerging leaders of color; what are the benefits to the city of Boston of new leadership, regardless of race; has the Menino administration left anything undone in communities of color that can now be addressed?


Our panel:
- Callie Crossley, host, Under The Radar, WGBH
- Phillip Martin, senior reporter, 89.7 WGBH Radio
- Kim McLarin, assistant professor of writing, literature, and publishing, Emerson College
- Kevin C. Peterson, founder/director, New Democracy Coalition
- John Barros, executive director, Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative


(Photo source: FreeFoto.com)