🌱 Black Bear Spotted In NW Portland + New Political Map Of The City

Hi Portland! Like many of you, the Patch staff is taking some time off for Memorial Day, so you won’t see this newsletter in your inbox for a few days. We’ll be back soon, but in the meantime, here’s what’s happening in and around town this weekend.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Mostly cloudy; not as warm. High: 74 Low: 51.
• Sunday: Low clouds may break. High: 76 Low: 52.

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Here are the top three stories in Portland today:

1. Wildlife experts are urging residents near Forest Park in Portland to take precautions as a bear has been spotted multiple times in the area, including rummaging through trash and roaming across an eight-mile range. While it's uncertain if it's one bear or multiple, experts believe it's likely the same bear, an adult fond of garbage. Residents are advised to secure their food sources and be cautious as the bear's behavior could change if it becomes too comfortable around humans and homes. (OregonLive)
2. Portland is undergoing a significant political transformation as it prepares to divide the city into four districts, marking a departure from the current citywide representation. A volunteer board called the Independent District Commission is tasked with determining the district boundaries, with the goal of achieving fair representation. The final district map, which must adhere to certain criteria and gain approval from at least nine commission members, will shape the future of political representation in Portland. (Oregon Public Broadcasting)
3. The Peninsula Crossing Trail in North Portland will be closed until Jun. 16, and the city is encouraging the homeless population in that area to live in the Safe Rest Village. Green notice flyers have been posted all throughout the trail, and many of those experiencing homelessness have already taken residence at Safe Rest Village. Around 80 people are living along the trail, and 60 are moving into the village. (Fox 12 Oregon)

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Today and tomorrow in Portland:

Saturday, May 27

• Farmers Market At Shemanski Park (8:30 AM)
• Community Garden Volunteer Day At Native American Youth And Family Center (10:00 AM)

Sunday, May 28

• Oregon Symphony At Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall (2:00 PM)

Monday, May 29

• Memorial Day Weekend At Friends Of Lone Fir Cemetery (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• On Jul. 15 and 16, Portland will host its annual Portland Pride Festival and Parade, with accompanying LGBTQ+ celebrations. You can enjoy food, drinks, and live music, and learn about nonprofits at various booths during the festival. (Travel Portland Instagram)
• The Environmental Conservation Organization Portland Audubon is encouraging residents to oppose the timber industry's misleading campaign against the Habitat Conservation Plan on Jun. 7 during the bimonthly meeting with the Oregon Board of Forestry. (Portland Audubon Instagram)
• Portland's parks and recreation system was ranked No. 9 in the country. The achievement was gained because of the commitment given to Portland's parks, natural areas, recreation programs, and trees. (Portland Parks and Recreation FaceBook)

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You're officially in the loop for today! See you soon for your next update.

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.