City Cast Portland

Whether you're settling in for a tasting menu at one of our city's best restaurants during Portland Dining Month or listening to a string ensemble performing candlelit renditions of your favorite '90s hip-hop hits, this is the month when Portland begins to shake off the winter doldrums and come alive. City Cast Portland has picked the month's top food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you have your best March ever. Plus, a bonus suggestion from our episode archive: Can You Really Eat That? A Forager's Guide To Portland Plants. If you're new here, welcome! For even more tips on how to make the most of March in Portland, check out the City Cast Portland newsletter's take on what to do this month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 2nd episode Discover Newport Neo Home Loans

A lot of cities, including Portland, are trying to figure out how best to revitalize downtown. It's an issue that's especially top of mind for Pittsburgh, who is hosting the NFL Draft in April. To solve the problem of vacant properties and empty storefronts, the city is trying out a new rent abatement program. So, City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Pittsburgh podcast host Megan Harris about why their downtown emptied out, whether this program will bring new businesses downtown for the long-term, and other revitalization plans that are in the works. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Today on City Cast Portland we're looking into a troubling 911 call from an ICE officer, Gov Kotek's confusing stance on data centers, and a group that hosts real life seasons of “Survivor” right here in Portland. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Stumptown Savings founder, Bryan M. Vance and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: Armed ICE Officer in Portland Called 911 During Confrontation [OPB] Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek: Pace of Data Center Growth ‘Is Not Sustainable' [Oregonian] This Group Hosts a Real-Life Version of Survivor in Portland [Portland Mercury] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 27th episode: Discover Newport

Today we're talking with Portland Monthly Managing Editor Margaret Seiler, about her car-free, off-season guide to Hood River and the surrounding area. Even at its quietest, Margaret thinks Hood River has plenty going on for a weekend trip. She's got a list of places we should check out, including a place that boasts art so bad they don't allow you to take pictures inside. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 26th episode Discover Newport

Today on the midweek news roundup, we're talking about our 12-member City Council finding ways to cut down on meetings, a measles outbreak in our state, a city leader walking back a proposal for allowing open carry in City Hall, and why our coastal Dungeness crabbers united against a petition aimed at preventing whale entanglements. Plus, we dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners. Discussed in today's episode: Portland City Council Votes To Reshape its Committee Structure [Portland Mercury] Oregon Health Officials Are Now Calling Measles an ‘Outbreak' [KOIN] Councilor Smith Walks Back Her Statement Amid Public Outcry [Portland Mercury] City Issues Report Clearing Zenith Energy of Alleged Violations [Portland Mercury] Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission Denies Petition to Alter Dungeness Crabbing Rules [KLCC] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. If you enjoyed this interview with Love Centerwall, the Executive Director of the Library Foundation, learn more here. Sponsored by Pivot Property Management. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 25th episode: Discover Newport

With the price of everything skyrocketing and many of us still wanting to pop out of town for a quick winter getaway, we're revisiting a conversation with our resident fun expert Eden Dawn, co-author of The Portland Book of Dates. She's sharing some ideas for luxurious, budget-friendly staycations, from a night away at a local winery's villa to a bike ride along a beautiful waterfront. This episode first aired on March 25, 2025 Discussed in today's episode: The Allison Inn & Spa The Society Hotel Bingen The Hoxton Sosta House (Reopening for the season March 1)  Beacon Hill Winery Villa Catalana Cellars Durant Olive Mill at Red Ridge Farms Enchanted Forest (Reopening for the season March 21) Salem's Riverfront Park La Hacienda Real Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 24th episode: Discover Newport

As Portlanders, we can't help but be nostalgic for the past. So when it comes to our restaurant scene, it can be hard to accept how often we have to say goodbye to our most beloved spots. Today Portland Monthly's associate editor of food and drink Alex Frane is joining host Claudia Meza and producer Giulia Fiaoni to remember some of our city's most missed restaurants, along with picks from you, our listeners. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 23rd episode Discover Newport Pivot Portland

Everyone's talking about AI these days, including Portlanders. And now, more data centers are popping up across the country, thanks in part to the AI revolution. But some cities are stemming the tide, including Madison, Wisconsin, who recently passed a one-year moratorium on new data center construction. City Cast CEO David Plotz feels strongly that this was the wrong choice! He's sitting down with City Cast Madison podcast host Bianca Martin to weigh the pros and cons of data centers, and debate the economic, ethical, and ecological considerations at the heart of this debate. Plus, David and Bianca share must-know tips for making it in Madison and DC.  We also mentioned this City Cast Madison episode. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Today, we're talking about how Portland's housing authority, Home Forward, is taking ages to fill vacant apartments, why the Trump administration is once again investigating Portland Public Schools, and updates on local leaders' attempts to combat federal overreach. Joining host Claudia Meza on today's Friday news roundup are Stumptown Savings founder Bryan M. Vance and our very own producer Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: It Takes Home Forward 185 Days on Average To Fill an Apartment at One of Its Buildings [Willamette Week] US Department of Education Opens Investigation Into PPS's Center for Black Student Excellence [Willamette Week] US Education Department Opens Civil Rights Probe Into Portland Public Schools' Center for Black Student Excellence [KGW] Portland Protesters and Journalists Are Suing Trump and the DHS. Oregon's Attorney General Just Stepped In To Help. [Portland Mercury]  ‘A Win for Oregon': 9th Circuit Dismisses Trump Appeal Over National Guard Deployment [Oregonian]  Temporary Tear Gas Restriction Outside Portland's ICE Building Extended [Oregonian]  ‘Food Is Political': A Portland Pizzeria Shared Its Anti-ICE Stance. Then It Was Targeted by a Conservative Social Media Site [Oregonian]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: Discover Newport Neo Home Loans South by Southwest - use code "citycast10" for a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge

Our city gets a lot of national attention for being the best at certain things. We have the best airport, pizza, vegan food, and protests, according to some publications. And today on City Cast Portland, we have another one to add to that list. According to travel writer Matt Hansen, we have the best gluten-free food in the entire world. And he's brought the receipts to prove it, along with an expert guide to Portland's best gluten-free dining. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 19th episode: Discover Newport South by Southwest - use code "citycast10" for a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge

Earlier this week, we discussed ideas for bringing people back to our city center — including promoting Portland's nightlife. Many cities across the U.S. have hired night-time economy directors, or “night mayors,” to manage and boost late-night scenes, and it's paying off. Today, we're revisiting a conversation host Claudia Meza had with Philadelphia's Night Time Economy Director, Raheem Manning, about how he keeps Philly running all night long and whether Portland could benefit from this type of leadership.  This episode originally aired on March 24, 2025. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 18th episode: Discover Newport South by Southwest - use code "citycast10" for a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge

Despite countless efforts by city and state leaders, downtown foot traffic is nowhere near pre-pandemic levels. Today, we're talking with two local leaders who represent our central city: District 4 Councilor Oliva Clark and District 3 Councilor Steve Novick. We're talking through the mayor's ambitious new plans for downtown, what's already in the works, some crazy ideas that just might work, and why it's so important we continue to invest in our urban core. Thank you to today's sponsor, Pivot Property Management. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 17th episode: Discover Newport Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland South by Southwest - use code "citycast10" for a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge

All eyes have been on the Twin Cities lately, including Portlanders'. Operation Metro Surge is reportedly ending in Minnesota, with the withdrawal of immigration agents expected over the next week. Over the last two months, though, residents of the Twin Cities have organized a range of local collective action efforts including protests, mutual aid, and monitoring ICE — and they've done it quickly. In this inaugural episode of “Your City Could Be Better,” City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Twin Cities podcast host Sean McPherson about how his community self-organized, why these networks have been so successful, and what other cities can take away from Minnesotans' response to Operation Metro Surge. Plus, we have a D.C. vs. Twin Cities face-off on local cultural norms. We also mentioned this episode of City Cast Twin Cities. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Today, we're looking into far-right activist Ammon Bundy's stance against ICE agents, the millions of unspent housing dollars the city uncovered, and big changes coming to 82nd Avenue. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Ammon Bundy Is Fed Up With Federal Overreach Again. This Time, It's About ICE [Oregonian] Bundyville Podcast Portland's Pile of Unspent Housing Dollars Surges to $106M, Top Bureaucrat Says [Oregonian]  One of Portland's Busiest Streets May Get a Dramatic Overhaul. Not Everyone Is On Board [Oregonian]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 13th episode: Portland Art Museum D'Amore Law Pivot Portland South by Southwest - use code "citycast10" for a 10% discount on your Innovation Badge

With Valentine's Day just days away, it's a good time to remember just how complicated dating can feel in Portland. Today, comedian Jay Flewelling joins us to talk about the state of love in Portland: what's broken, what's funny, and what might actually work. He's also bringing dating horror stories from Mack Lee and Aleah Liebenau, co-hosts of Heart Throb, a comedy show that turns Portland dating chaos into a good time. Catch Heart Throb: The Dream Date Show on Saturday, Feb. 14 at Kickstand Comedy. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 12th episode Portland Art Museum D'Amore Law Pivot Portland

Today, we have updates on major local stories, including the millions more in unspent dollars found in our city's Housing Bureau, the return of the Gresham family taken by federal agents to a Texas ICE facility, and the uncertain future of the Trail Blazers and the Moda Center. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Portland's Pile of Unspent Housing Dollars Surges to $106M, Top Bureaucrat Says [Oregonian] Oregon Family Returns Home After Three-Week ICE Detention in Texas [KGW] I Hope I'm Wrong, but This Is Why I Fear the Trail Blazers Could Be As Good As Gone [Oregonian]  Moda Center Funding Bill Introduced in Salem With Few Specifics, Broad Support From Top Democrats [Oregonian]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 11th episode: Portland Art Museum D'Amore Law Pivot Portland

Portland has no shortage of award-winning cocktail lounges and dive bars, but there's still something extra special about a neighborhood bar. They're your community hub, therapist office, and place to make friends: they're an essential piece of our city's cultural fabric. So today, producers John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni are joining host Claudia Meza to discuss our favorite neighborhood bars, why we keep going back, and share a few listener recommendations. Mentioned in Today's Episode: LaVerne's The Old Gold Mosaic Taphouse Lucky Horseshoe Lounge Prost! Wilder Dear Sandy   Dream House Tulip Shop Tavern Side Eye   Le Bistro   Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 10th episode: Portland Art Museum D'Amore Law Pivot Portland

According to data recently published by the Portland Business Journal, the most popular shopping district in our city is located in Southeast Portland's Richmond neighborhood. In the last three months of 2025, Hawthorne Blvd. saw 1.6 million visitors, more than any other business strip in our city. So today, we're revisiting our neighborhood guide where executive producer John Notarianni spoke to Greg Raisman who's lived in Richmond for over 20 years. Greg knows all the best spots and has some pretty interesting history, as he also works for PBOT, creating public plazas and street art all over our city. This episode originally aired on May 5, 2025. Mentions in Today's Episode: Bagdad Theater Powell's Books on Hawthorne Steeplejack Union on Hawthorne Presents of Mind QuarterWorld Pinolo Gelato Little Beast Brewing Jacqueline Broder Cafe Clinton Street Theater Hawthorne Theatre Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard and 37th Avenue Plaza 3 Doors Down Capes & Crepes The Barmuda Triangle Common Grounds Coffeehouse Sewallcrest Park Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 9th episode Portland Art Museum D'Amore Law Pivot Portland

Today we're talking about a drug market that moved into a local affordable housing complex, as well as yet another surplus of unspent funds found in the city Housing Bureau's budget. Plus, a local psychiatrist's connection to the Epstein files, the Lake Oswego marquee that upset Amazon, and so much more. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Willamette Week reporter and author, Brianna Wheeler, and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: A Drug Market Moves Into a Home Forward Apartment Building [Willamette Week] Portland Housing Bureau Finds at Least Another $15 Million in Unspent Funds [Portland Mercury]  Lake Oswego Theater Loses Rights To Screen ‘Melania' After Marquee Jokes [Lake Oswego Review] Portland Lawmaker Pushes Tear Gas Ban After ICE Protest Crackdown [Oregonian]   Prominent Portland Psychiatrist Corresponded With Jeffrey Epstein, Emails Show [Willamette Week]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 6th episode: Oregon Ballet Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland

Everyone knows Nike and Tillamook, but countless other popular products and brands got their start in our region —  and many of them have unexpected stories. Today on City Cast Portland, we're sharing a fresh round of our favorite city and state exports: things that got their start here, but have become household names well beyond our fair city. Joining host Claudia Meza on the show are our very own producers, John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 5th episode: Oregon Ballet Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland

Today, we're talking with Portland Mercury reporter Jeremiah Hayden about the string of protests that happened in town this past weekend, including Saturday's march, where federal agents shot tear gas and flash bangs into a crowd that included children. We're also looking into responses from local leaders and what exactly they can do about any of this. Discussed in Today's Episode: Hundreds of Students Walk Out of Class Across Portland To Protest ICE [OPB] Portland Officials Condemn ICE After Federal Agents Tear Gas Peaceful Protesters and Children [Portland Mercury] Hundreds Shut Down Streets Marching From City Hall to ICE Facility in Downtown Portland [KPTV] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 4th episode Oregon Ballet Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland

Today we're continuing our neighborhood guide series with a trip beyond the city limits to Oregon City. This history-rich suburb is full of unique shops, great food, and its own municipal elevator. Our guide is Oregon City resident and Portland-area event planner, Amy Theberge. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 3rd episode Oregon Ballet Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland

Whether you're seeing the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra perform live or dancing in a Mardi Gras Parade on Mississippi Ave., there are plenty of ways to make the most of Portland's most wintry month. City Cast Portland has picked the month's top food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you have your best February ever. Plus, a bonus suggestion from our episode archive: Portland's Most Romantic Restaurants. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Portland community. For even more tips on how to make the most of February in Portland, check out the City Cast Portland newsletter's take on what to do this month.  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 2nd episode: Oregon Ballet Neo Home Loans Pivot Portland

Today, we're looking into why city leaders are pushing for more penalties against the landlord of the South Portland ICE facility. We're also hearing about a gap in Portland's police oversight system and the city-commissioned study that recommends we move away from renovating the Keller Auditorium. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Columbia, Breakside Team Up for Beer Made With Bear Poop for the Super Bowl [KOIN] Portland Councilors Urge Mayor Wilson To Carry Out New Penalties on ICE Facility [OPB] Study Suggests Portland Should Not Renovate Keller Auditorium, Saying City Can't Support Two Large-Scale Entertainment Venues [KGW] Police Oversight in Portland Is Quietly Falling Apart Amid Transition to New Accountability System [KBOO] Landlord of Portland ICE Offices Admits He Was at the Wheel of a Mercedes That Struck a Protester [Willamette Week] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 30th episode: The Ascent by Christopher Walker

It has not felt like a normal winter in Portland. December was the warmest on record, January has been unusually dry, and people are already noticing plants blooming that usually don't show up for months. Today we're talking with Norther Emily of Wild Solitude Guiding to determine if this is weird-but-normal weather or a warning sign of bigger changes ahead. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 29th episode The Ascent by Christopher Walker

Today on City Cast Portland, we have updates on the shooting that left two police officers injured, and more details on the Gresham family detained and sent to a Texas facility by border patrol agents. Plus, we get a firsthand account of what's going on with ICE in Minneapolis. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni, and City Cast Twin Cities creative producer Adam Sage. Discussed in Today's Episode: Portland Police Arrest Suspect in Shooting That Wounded 2 Officers [Oregonian] Gresham Family Detained by Immigration Officers While Seeking Medical Care for Their 7-Year-Old [OPB] Minnesota Is Under Occupation by Federal Agents From ICE and CBP, and We Need Your Support. [Stand with Minnesota] A Day of Strike and Protest in the Twin Cities [City Cast Twin Cities] City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to ⁠citycast.fm/jobs⁠ for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsor of this January 28th episode: The Ascent by Christopher Walker

Next week, Oregon lawmakers are heading into a short, five-week legislative session with a very long to-do list. At the top of it is how to keep the state's transportation system from falling apart. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with Dirk VanderHart, OPB's state politics and government reporter. He's going to help us make sense of the options, the legal chaos, and what else lawmakers are trying to squeeze into this short session. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsor of this January 27th episode: The Ascent by Christopher Walker

According to recent data, fewer than half of Multnomah County residents were born in Oregon — meaning most Portlanders aren't actually from here. But adjusting to life in our wonderful city can be challenging, and it's hard to know how to start building a community. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with two recent transplants and friends of the show, Danielle Mangone and Chris Cary. They have tips for how to quickly find your groove — and all the ways you can make Portland really feel like home. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 26th episode: Beaumont Jewelry The Ascent by Christopher Walker Flatbike SkillCharter

This week, we're looking into a shooting that injured two local police officers, and what happened when a former Portland journalist went undercover to investigate the Department of Homeland Security's hiring process for ICE agents. Plus, several local restaurants were long-listed for the James Beard Awards, but the news isn't as good for the James Beard Public Market, whose opening was delayed until 2027. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: 1 of 2 Injured Portland Officers Released From Hospital; Search for Shooter Continues [KATU] A Former Portland Journalist Says She Was Hired by ICE After 6-Minute Interview [Oregonian] With Opening Delayed to 2027, James Beard Public Market Carries Weight of Portland's Civic Hopes [Oregonian] Oregon's 2026 James Beard Awards Semifinalists Are Here [Eater] City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to ⁠citycast.fm/jobs⁠ for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 23rd episode: Beaumont Jewelry Flatbike Neo Home Loans SkillCharter

It's easy to forget that peak hiking and camping season is a lot closer than you might think. Even though we're in the depths of winter, January is a good time to start planning for the glorious summer months ahead by securing permits and reservations for state and national parks. Today we're revisiting a conversation executive producer John Notarianni had with Norther Emily of Wild Solitude Guiding to prepare you for the season: how to set goals for what you want to accomplish outdoors, what permits and campgrounds to reserve, and how to get your winter body ready. This episode first aired on Feb 11, 2025  Mentioned in Today's Episode: Washington State Permits and Passes [wa.gov] Oregon State Passes and Permits [oregon.gov] Mount St. Helens Climbing Permits [usda.gov] Mount Margaret Permit [usda.gov] Central Cascades Wilderness Permits [usda.gov] Olympic National Park Permits [nps.gov] Enchantment Permits [usda.gov] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 22nd episode Beaumont Jewelry Flatbike SkillCharter

Today on City Cast Portland we're discussing the latest in the back-and-forth over some nasty texts seen at City Hall, the major new labor contract at OHSU, the plan for Jefferson High School's enrollment woes, and more in our news lightning round. Plus, we dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners, and share a few of our top event picks for the week ahead. Joining executive producer John Notarianni on this midweek roundup is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Update: City Councilor Apologizes After Lashing Out at Press After Mercury Story About Offensive Group Chat [Portland Mercury] OHSU Union Overwhelmingly Approves Labor Deal, Setting Stage for Minimum Wage Hike [Willamette Week] School Board Approves Plan to Fill Jefferson High School [Willamette Week]  Feds Warn Oregon, Other States, on Paying Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers [Oregonian]  Oregon Spirits Brand To Shutter After Opening Nation's First Alcohol-Free Distillery [KOIN] Forty Drop Few at LaVerne's  Federal Oversight & Accountability Town Hall at Revolution Hall  It's Gonna Be Okay Comedy Show at EastBurn Train Dreams x Movie Book Club at PAM CUT's Tomorrow Theater  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 21st episode: Beaumont Jewelry Flatbike SkillCharter

The Lloyd Center mall is about to go through some big changes this year, with demolition already partially underway. But the Food Court 5000 retro mall walking group is still hoping the building will be saved. They gather every weekend to strut the endless hallways of the mall with neon leggings and big hair — but their future is uncertain without the Lloyd Center. Today on City Cast Portland, host Claudia Meza is talking with Krista Catwood, local performance artist and founder and host of the Food Court 5000. She's here to share why she wants to save the Lloyd Center and how to get in on the next mall walk. Discussed in Today's Episode: Food Court 5000 Eastside Kettlebell Class SaveLloyd In this episode, we incorrectly attribute the incoming music venue at the Lloyd Center to Live Nation. The venue will be run by entertainment companies Monqui Presents and AEG Presents. We regret this error. City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to citycast.fm/jobs for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 20th episode: Beaumont Jewelry Neo Home Loans Flatbike SkillCharter

This week we're looking into the long and contentious vote for a new City Council president, a recent report showing how well our county's homeless shelter system is working, and the dizzying story of the man who rode a horse to a Portland ICE protest — and all the lies that unfolded. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Fractious Portland City Council Finally Breaks Impasse, Elects ‘Reluctant Hero' as New President [Oregonian] "Racist, Dehumanizing": Chat Images Show Portland Power Players Disparaging Councilors of Color [Portland Mercury] Few Homeless Shelter Guests End Up Housed; New Report Details Problems, Points to Solution [Oregonian] He Rode a Horse To Portland Ice Protests Claiming To Be Mexican. His Family Says His Story Isn't True [Oregonian] City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to citycast.fm/jobs for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 16th episode West Lombard D'Amore Law OMSI Cascadia Getaways SkillCharter

Last year, our city might have set a record for new Italian restaurants. If you want to try them but are overwhelmed by all the options, we've got an expert guide on which ones are actually worth the visit. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with Oregonian restaurant critic Michael Russell about his favorites and what to order — plus, which ones are maybe not yet worth the hype. Discussed in Today's Episode: Bistecca Dimo's Italian Specialties Fantino Hey Luigi Maglia Rosa Monty's Red Sauce Sunday Sauce Parallel City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to citycast.fm/jobs for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 15th episode: West Lombard D'Amore Law OMSI Cascadia Getaways SkillCharter

Today, we're looking into all the latest updates surrounding the border patrol shooting of two people in East Portland, and we're also hearing from you, our listeners, about the incident. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek news roundup is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Man Shot by Border Patrol in Portland Released From Hospital, Charged With Assaulting Federal Officer [OPB] Border Patrol Agent Fired 2 Shots When Driver Rammed Unoccupied Federal Rental Car, FBI Says [Oregonian] Southwest Portland Shooting Linked to Suspects Shot by Border Patrol Last Week [KGW]    City Cast Portland is looking for an Audience Development Manager. Go to citycast.fm/jobs for more information and to apply. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode: West Lombard D'Amore Law OMSI Cascadia Getaways SkillCharter

Last year, Portland leaders took big swings at addressing homelessness in our city. But even so, homelessness has continued to rise. As the new year begins, the big question is what happens next — especially with the threat of major federal funding cuts. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with Oregonian homelessness and mental health reporter Lillian Mongeau Hughes. She's giving us an update and a look ahead on one of our city's biggest ongoing issues. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 13th episode: West Lombard D'Amore Law OMSI Cascadia Getaways SkillCharter

For more than a decade, Oregon pursued one of the most ambitious education goals in the country: that every student who entered kindergarten in 2012 would graduate by 2025. To see how that promise played out, OPB followed 25 students for 13 years, from their first days of school to the brink of adulthood. Today on City Cast Portland, OPB's Rob Manning and Elizabeth Miller join host Claudia Meza to recap the Class of 2025 project and break down what worked, what fell apart, and what Oregon's schools are still struggling to fix. OPB is hosting a screening of “Class of 2025: Growing Up in Oregon Schools,” tonight at The Redd on Salmon Street. Registration is free but tickets required; sign up at opb.org/growingup.  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 12th episode: West Lombard D'Amore Law OMSI Cascadia Getaways SkillCharter

Two people were shot by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in East Portland yesterday. On a special breaking news episode, host Claudia Meza and executive producer John Notarianni break down what we know so far. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

First, an update on yesterday's breaking news about the two people shot by federal immigration agents in Portland. Then we're talking about National Guard troops in Oregon finally being told to go home, Governor Tina Kotek's push to repeal a transportation package she supported, and TriMet's plan to cut bus lines in response to their budget crisis. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Stumptown Savings founder Bryan M. Vance and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Residents Raise Funds for Town With Nearly Nude Calendar [CBS] Trump Warns Portland, ‘We'll Go Back In When the Crime Starts,' as National Guard Demobilizes [Oregonian] Gov. Tina Kotek Calls for Repeal of Controversial Transportation Package She Championed [Oregonian] TriMet To Eliminate Portland-Area Bus Routes, Shorten MAX Green Line Amid Budget Crisis [Oregonian]   Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 9th episode: Lan Su Chinese Garden Neo Home Loans

The new year is the perfect time to explore where you live a little deeper. Today we're revisiting a conversation with Eden Dawn, author of The Portland Book of Dates and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni, looking at our city through that newcomer's gaze. Think of it as an unofficial guide of sorts on how to be a local tourist. This episode first aired on June 26, 2023 Locations mentioned in the episode: Wine tours Pine State Biscuits Peninsula Park International Rose Test Garden Silver Falls State Park Multnomah Falls Jetboat Excursions  Huber's Cafe Hale Pele “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at Clinton Street Theater Dots Cafe Portland Japanese Garden Kick Ass Walking Tours Previously aired episodes mentioned: The Great Portland Doughnut Throwdown  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 8th episode Lan Su Chinese Garden Neo Home Loans

Today we're talking about some of the new state laws going into effect this year, a city councilor's push to ban foie gras, the closing of a beloved North Portland gastropub, and more. We also dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: New Year, New Rules: A Look at Some of the Oregon Laws That Kick in Jan. 1 [OPB] Councilor Mitch Green Defends His Priorities: 'We Can Walk and Chew Gum at the Same Time' [Willamette Week} ‘Change Is Hard': North Portland Gastropub To Shutter After 14 Years [KOIN] Portland Food Cart Up for Sale as Owner Undergoes Visa Process [KOIN] This Once-Toxic Industrial Wasteland Could Become Portland's Most Expansive Botanical Gardens [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 7th episode Lan Su Chinese Garden Neo Home Loans

For bars and restaurants, January is usually the quietest month of the year. That makes it a great time to visit some of Portland's new food spots. Today, Portland Monthly associate editor of food and drink Alex Frane is here with five recently opened restaurants and bars that you should put on your must-visit list. From farm-to-table French food to rotisserie chicken at a 70s-themed bar, Alex is telling us exactly what we should order when we're there.   Mentioned in today's episode: LaVerne's Bar Nouveau  L'Echelle Pal's Lil' Barbeque Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 6th episode Lan Su Chinese Garden Neo Home Loans D'Amore Law