Fireworks Ban+Voodoo Doughnut Strike+Vaccine Cash Prizes

Finally, we’re sorta back to normal. Weather-wise at least, I’m a firm believer in keeping Portland weird. Let’s see how that’s going today.

Weather

Today will be mostly sunny with glorious high of 89. Wow, how long has it been since we've been below 90? Yay!

Top news stories for Portland

1. The record breaking heat wave that Oregon experienced has taken its toll on residents. In Multnomah County alone there were 43 reported visits to emergency departments or urgent care centers due to heat-related illness. Two people who went swimming in the Willamette River to beat the heat are now missing and, in Bend, advocates working at a homeless camp found two men dead. Their deaths are suspected of being heat-related. (OPB)
2. Because of hot and dry conditions, Portland Fire & Rescue has issued a fireworks ban ahead of Fourth of July celebrations. Officials say that they won’t be patrolling for fireworks use, but will be investigating all fires that have a connection to fireworks. (KATU)
3. The Portland Trailblazers have a new head coach! It has been announced that Chauncey Billups, formerly assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers, will now assume the role of head coach for our very own Blazers. (KXL 101)
4. Workers at Voodoo Doughnuts went on strike over the weekend, citing unsafe working conditions. While the heat was part of their complaint, Voodoo Doughnut employees have been trying to unionize since March of last year, a move that Voodoo’s corporate office has been resisting. (Willamette Week)
5. Who wants to be a millionaire? It might be you, if you’re among the vaccinated in Oregon. As part of the Oregon Health Authority’s push to get the state vaccinated, they began the “Take Your Shot, Oregon” campaign, offering cash prizes for those who got vaccinated. The names of the winners were drawn on Monday and the OHA will be reaching out to winners this week. (KGW)

Today's events for Portland

1. Can't decide whether you want to enjoy some hip hop or laugh at a comedy show? Why not do both. Tonight you can, because the Star Theater in NW Portland is featuring the HIP HOP & Laughter Show. Starring KNO-CHILD, IKES, LIL ESPY and more. Get your tickets online. Show starts at 7:30 PM.
2. The Growler Guys in South Portland are holding a beer tasting event, courtesy of Sunriver Brewing. Enjoy a variety of great tasting beers and talk with their Rep. Justin. 5:00 – 7:00 PM.
3. Come see the band Yellow Birds' first show at Produce Row. Amanda Breeze, Jenna Ellefson and Rose Gerber comprise this Americana trio and they’ll be bringing their own brand of sweet and haunting original songs. 6:00 – 8:00 PM.
4. Tonight is comedy night at the Botanist in NW Portland in one of the largest rooftop tents in Portland. Get your tickets online and email confirmation. All state COVID-19 regulations will be strictly observed. Show starts at 7:00 PM.
5. Who knew Portland had such a thriving comedy scene? It’s House Marg Comedy night at Tamale Boy on Dekum! Tonight will feature Seth Allen & Shain Brenden for an outdoor, socially distanced evening of fun. Tickets available online. Show starts at 7:30 PM.

Portland Patch Notebook

1. Washington Park is celebrating its 150th anniversary and it’s inviting visitors to explore its many destinations by visiting featured Discovery Points. These Discovery Points include the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, the International Rose Test Garden and more. (Washington Park)
2. While I’ve called the City of Roses my home for over 2 decades, I was born and raised in Maine, near the other Portland. This means I mix up the two all the time. And I’m not the only one. One unfortunate dumpling maker had their dumpling-making machine sent to the wrong Portland. Oops! (KOIN)

And that’s the story for this hump day. Because in Portland, life is just one wondrous fairy tale. I hope you’re living your happily ever after. 'Til tomorrow, true believers!