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A dumpster fire at Chapman Elementary in Portland flared up just hours before the school’s first day, but no injuries or damages occurred. Portland Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong greeted students and parents, emphasizing community connections and safety. The school day proceeded as planned despite the incident.
Fred Meyer plans to lay off about 100 employees at its Portland corporate office as part of a larger reduction involving nearly 1,000 layoffs at Kroger nationwide. The parent company aims to simplify operations and redirect resources toward customer service enhancements, including lower prices and store growth.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) began construction on the I-5 Rose Quarter project despite a funding crisis affecting the agency. The groundbreaking, which lacked a celebratory ceremony, comes as lawmakers prepare for a special session to address transportation funding issues. Critics question ODOT's financial decisions, particularly in light of rescinded federal funds exceeding $400 million.
Acting Director Todd Lyons announced that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are cooperating with Washington, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to target illegal immigrants with criminal histories. Lyons stated that over 70% of those arrested by ICE have a criminal background. He emphasized a focus on "removing criminal aliens" from communities across the country.
A property owner in Portland's Pearl District protested a new low-barrier homeless shelter by pitching a tent outside City Hall, leading to his arrest for second-degree trespassing. Paul Rudinsky expressed concerns about the shelter attracting homeless individuals to the area, which he claims has deteriorated recently. The city stated that the shelter aims to address homelessness and related issues in the community.
Oregon's Department of State Lands spent over $50,000 on a failed cleanup of homeless camps along the Sandy River Delta. Protests and violence led to Governor Tina Kotek pausing the cleanup efforts, with the state acknowledging wasted funds that could have supported schools.
The Street Services Coordination Center (SSCC) reported assisting 34 people with shelter referrals last week in Portland, with 20 accepting offers. From August 18-24, the Impact Reduction Program documented 2,549 campsite reports, assessed 849 sites, and removed 148 camps that posed health and safety risks.
A rideshare driver, Peter Giusti, faced a near-drowning incident after a wrong turn led him into Morgan Creek on the Isle of Palms, South Carolina, during a storm. Fortunately, two good Samaritans rescued him, and he sustained only minor injuries despite his car being totaled. Giusti urges caution for drivers in heavy rain, emphasizing the need for better signage in the area.
An Ohio mother is expected to face charges after allegedly drowning her 4-year-old son, Vincen, following a golf cart crash into Atwood Lake. Authorities believe the mother was suffering from a “spiritual delusion” and that both parents previously claimed to have communicated with God. The bodies of Vincen and his father, Marcus Miller, were recovered from the lake during the investigation.
Councilor Avalos invites residents of East Portland to the D1 People’s Picnic at Parklane Park on August 24, 2025. The family-friendly event aims to foster community engagement and offers free access to attendees. Local participation is encouraged for a day of music and picnic activities.