🌱 Oregon First In Voter Turnout + Family Searches For Missing Man

Good morning, Portland. Here is everything you need to know today in five minutes or less.

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Here are the top three stories in Portland today:

1. Oregon saw the highest voter turnout in the nation for the first time during this last November's election. The state came ahead of Maine for turnout by 0.05 percent. Oregon has had several big-ticket issues on the ballot this year, including a governor's race, gun restriction measures, and changes to the state constitution. (Jefferson Public Radio)
2. A Portland family is seeking help in locating a 60-year-old man with dementia who has been missing since Jan. 3. Family members of Randy Miller spent Thursday afternoon hanging up fliers with the man's picture at bus tops around the city. Residents who spot Miller are asked to contact Portland police. (Erie News Now)
3. With Portland Music Month kicking off this week, there are multiple events throughout the city taking place this weekend. Here is a list of eight events in Portland this weekend, including Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in Concert, and an electric house musical performance. (KGW)

Today in Portland:

• Farmers Market At Portland State University (9:00 AM)
• Valentino Khan At 45 East (10:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Did you know Oregon was just one of two states in the nation that didn’t see an increase in their average monthly electric bill last year? Learn more about where the Beaver State stands on power consumption and costs compared to the rest of the country in this new Ownerly data study. (Ownerly)
• Celebrate the Slavic winter solstice this Sunday at the Koleda Slavic Winter Festival! The festival will take place Sunday, Jan. 8 from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Oregon Latvian Community Center. The event will include entertainment, traditional foods, a variety of craft vendors and workshops, and more. (Travel Portland)

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Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you soon.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.