Good morning Portland! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you call a belt that is made of watches? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Portland parents push for less screen time in schools (koin.com) — Portland Public Schools is working with local parents to craft a new policy that could sharply limit classroom screen time, including a proposal for completely screen-free learning in kindergarten through second grade. The parent group Beyond Screens and PPS aim to tailor rules by grade level, with older students' device use restricted to shared spaces like libraries and a draft policy expected later this school year.
2. Parents brace for potential Portland Public Schools closures (koin.com) — Portland families are bracing as Portland Public Schools prepares to release a first draft of possible school closures and boundary changes next Monday in response to declining enrollment. At a community meeting in Southwest Portland, parents pressed district leaders on how "rightsizing" decisions will be made, with a final board vote expected in December after more public input.
3. Oregon fire departments are spending more on diesel (kptv.com) — Portland Fire & Rescue reports a 20% jump in fuel costs, using tens of thousands more gallons of diesel in the last fiscal year while still maintaining emergency response readiness. Alongside Forest Grove and several nearby departments, Portland crews are absorbing higher prices, exploring future battery-powered tools, and watching fuel budgets closely so service to city residents isn't reduced.
4. Officials Urge Year-Round Wildfire Safety (kxl.com) — Even though National Preparedness Month has ended, Multnomah County and Portland Fire & Rescue are urging Portland residents to stay wildfire-ready through the rest of the season. Officials recommend creating a clean air room for smoke, slowly building emergency supplies, and hardening your home's exterior to reduce fire risk, with local resources available to help households take these steps.
5. Silicon Florist links arrangement for September 30, 2026 (siliconflorist.com) — Portland just took a big step toward government transparency, with city leaders unanimously approving a resolution to open more municipal data to outside developers and favor open-source tech in procurement. In a broader tech and startup link roundup, the post also highlights Oregon funding for entrepreneurs, national AI policy shifts, and ongoing coverage of the Portland startup scene.
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Ok Portland! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A waist of time. (Thank you Martin L. for sending it in!)
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