Best Trimet Podcasts (2026)

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Troops Finally Leave, Gov. Kotek Backpedals on Transportation, and TriMet Cuts Lines 39:06

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3d ago39:06

39:06

First, an update on yesterday's breaking news about the two people shot by federal immigration agents in Portland. Then we’re talking about National Guard troops in Oregon finally being told to go home, Governor Tina Kotek’s push to repeal a transportation package she supported, and TriMet’s plan to cut bus lines in response to their budget crisis.…

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Breaking: Border Patrol Shooting in East Portland and What We Know So Far 6:17

2h ago6:17

6:17

Two people were shot by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in East Portland yesterday. On a special breaking news episode, host Claudia Meza and executive producer John Notarianni break down what we know so far. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an e…

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Portland Tourist Traps You Should Finally Visit This Year 24:33

8h ago24:33

24:33

The new year is the perfect time to explore where you live a little deeper. Today we’re revisiting a conversation with Eden Dawn, author of The Portland Book of Dates and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni, looking at our city through that newcomer’s gaze. Think of it as an unofficial guide of sorts on how to be a local tourist. This …

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New Oregon Laws, a Potential Foie Gras Ban, and a Toxic Dump Becomes a Botanical Garden? 21:09

5d ago21:09

21:09

Today we're talking about some of the new state laws going into effect this year, a city councilor’s push to ban foie gras, the closing of a beloved North Portland gastropub, and more. We also dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own executive producer, John Notarianni…

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5 Portland Restaurants You Must Visit in 2026 26:00

2h ago26:00

26:00

For bars and restaurants, January is usually the quietest month of the year. That makes it a great time to visit some of Portland's new food spots. Today, Portland Monthly associate editor of food and drink Alex Frane is here with five recently opened restaurants and bars that you should put on your must-visit list. From farm-to-table French food t…

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What U.S. Cities Will Be Talking About in 2026 (Including Portland) 57:28

1d ago57:28

57:28

Nobody understands a city’s pulse quite like a City Cast host — and that makes them the best predictors for 2026’s biggest local stories. City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza joins CEO David Plotz and the other 12 hosts from across the network to talk about the big changes coming to our cities, from political shifts to data centers. Learn more abou…

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Your Guide to January 2026 in Portland 37:17

4d ago37:17

37:17

Whether you’re hitting the slopes to go snowboarding on Mount Hood or staying inside to watch a Studio Ghibli film with themed snacks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy January in Portland — both indoors and out. City Cast Portland has picked the best of the month’s food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you kick off the new year in …

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From Country Dancing to Indoor Skating, Your Winter Weather Escape Guide 25:28

13d ago25:28

25:28

As we count down to the new year and brace for the cold, rainy weeks ahead, we’re revisiting a conversation with Ryan Hashegen about some of the best ways to keep moving and have fun while staying dry this season. They’re the founder of ⁠Icicle Tricycles⁠, the managing director of ⁠Better Block PDX⁠, and the director of the ⁠Steel Bridge Skatepark …

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Staying Active This Winter With the Portland Area’s Best Cross-Country Skiing 29:32

14d ago29:32

29:32

Now that the holidays are almost over, it's time to think about staying active all winter long. In addition to experiencing our beautiful wilderness during one of its most magical seasons, cross-county skiing is also a pretty great workout. Today we're revisiting a conversation with Portland Monthly's Rebecca Jacobson. She published a beginner’s gu…

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Portland's Biggest News Stories of 2025 36:55

14d ago36:55

36:55

As 2025 comes to a close, we're reflecting on everything we’ve lived through this year. Today on City Cast Portland, producers John Notarianni, Giulia Fiaoni, and a few of our contributors join host Claudia Meza to discuss the biggest, wildest, and most surprising things that happened in our city this year. Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition Hotl…

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The Best Books by Oregon Authors in 2025 27:17

15d ago27:17

27:17

This was a big year for Oregon writers. Some of the most talked-about books of 2025 came from authors living right here — including a couple of National Book Award finalists. Today, Portland Monthly senior associate editor Matthew Trueherz is here to walk us through a few standouts in fiction and nonfiction, featured on the magazine’s annual best b…

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City Councilors Lawyer Up, New Seasons Workers’ Big Win, and a Costly New Shipping Terminal 36:59

24d ago36:59

36:59

This week in Portland, we’re looking into why five city council members are lawyering up, the controversial multibillion-dollar idea to revitalize a coastal town, and a check-in on three local labor disputes. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own senior producer, Giulia …

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An Expert Guide to Snow Camping in Portland and Not Getting Frostbite 30:07

25d ago30:07

30:07

Today, we're talking about one unexpected activity that might stir your spirit for the outdoors this winter — snow camping. How do you even do it, and is it really worth it? Joining us is outdoor expert and Portland ambassador for Women Who Explore, Karrie Carnes. She has tips for how to pull off a safe winter camping trip this season that doesn’t …

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Portland’s New Big Boss, Gas Tax on Hold, and an ICE Emergency in Multnomah County 31:06

26d ago31:06

31:06

This week, we’re discussing our official new city administrator, the reason the state's new gas tax is now on hold, the latest local government declaring an emergency over Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity, and much more in our news lightning round. Joining executive producer John Notarianni on this midweek round-up is our very own senio…

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What We Misunderstand About Hunger in Oregon 20:39

27d ago20:39

20:39

One in six Oregon children lives in a food-insecure home, and now as we enter the holidays and brace for new cuts to federal food assistance, many families are wondering how they’ll get through the months ahead. Today we’re joined by Rachael Lucille Jackson-Davis of the Oregon Food Bank to talk about what hunger really looks like right now, how the…

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Portland's Best Breakfast Sandwiches 29:29

28d ago29:29

29:29

This is the time of year when a quick, comforting breakfast feels especially appealing, so it's fortunate that Portland has plenty of options. Today we're revisiting a conversation about Portland's best breakfast sandwiches — from the tastiest sauce to the ultimate hangover cure. This episode first aired July 17, 2025 Some Places Discussed in Today…

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Portland Sued by Right-Wing Influencer, Mayor Wilson Eyes Central City, and Will Jefferson Ever Thrive? 40:10

1M ago40:10

40:10

This week in Portland, Mayor Wilson's next set of ambitious goals, an influencer suing the Portland Police Department for being biased against conservatives, and the uncertain future of a historically Black high school in North Portland. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Whe…

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The Year's Best Graphic Novels From Portland's Vibrant Comic Scene and Beyond 30:19

1M ago30:19

30:19

Portland’s graphic novel and comic book arts scene is one of our most deep-seated and vibrant creative communities. Today on City Cast Portland, with the help of Katie Pryde (owner of Southeast Portland’s award-winning comic book shop, Books with Pictures) we’re putting together a must-read list of some of the best graphic novels and comic books, i…

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Millions of Unspent Housing Dollars and the Controversial Firing of Portland’s Housing Director 27:38

1M ago27:38

27:38

Today, we’re looking into how the Portland Housing Bureau director, a leading expert on affordable housing, was fired by our mayor and what the move says about the continuing power struggle in city government. Plus, we dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek round-up is Portland Mercury's ho…

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What's Driving Up the Cost of Your Portland Water Bill? 28:37

1M ago28:37

28:37

Portland City Council approved a 6% increase to our water and sewer utility bills last summer, and they’re forecasting even higher rates in the next few years. Today we're talking to Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light, about why our water bills are so expensive. She’s also sharing details on an ongoing project that aims to protect …

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Why Russell Is Portland's Best Neighborhood To Buy a Home 23:21

1M ago23:21

23:21

East Portland's Russell neighborhood is quiet, safe, and totally under-the-radar. Today, we’re continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk with Portlanders about the good, bad, and ugly of where they live with Russell neighborhood resident Danielle Mangone, a member of the Portland Creator Community who's on Instagram as pnwplanned. Disc…

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Wilson Hits Shelter Goal, Empty Affordable Units, and Is This Guy Our Next City Administrator? 34:02

1M ago34:02

34:02

This week, we’re talking about Mayor Keith Wilson declaring victory on reaching a pivotal goal in his plan to end unsheltered homelessness, and his pick for the new city administrator. Plus, why is Portland’s housing authority currently sitting on nearly a thousand empty affordable apartments? Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news ro…

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Portland Hip-Hop Isn’t Just Aminé 34:24

1M ago34:24

34:24

When most people think of Portland hip-hop, acclaimed rapper Aminé might be the only name that comes to mind. But Portland’s had a thriving hip-hop scene since the '80s. Our underrated scene helped shape West Coast hip-hop, with sounds and styles that don't fit into any particular box. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with veteran local D…

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Portland Chef Stuck in Mexico, ICE Ramps Up Sweeps, and Newport vs. Feds 24:09

1M ago24:09

24:09

Today, we’re looking into the latest actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that are affecting our region. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Where Things Stand 2 Months After Trump Ordered Troops to Portland [OPB] Another Oregon City Declares …

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Is Seattle Better Than Portland? 29:56

1M ago29:56

29:56

Portland and Seattle have always had a good-natured rivalry. As two of the Pacific Northwest's biggest cities, it's easy to compare ourselves with our neighbor to the north — we both have ample access to nature, thriving food scenes, and plenty of rain. But in honor of the recent launch of City Cast Seattle, host Jane C. Hu joins us to debate the m…

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Your Guide to December 2025 in Portland 30:38

1M ago30:38

30:38

Whether you’re trekking into the forest to cut down your own Christmas tree or seeking out the best holiday light displays in the area, December offers plenty of ways to feel festive. City Cast Portland has picked the best of the month’s food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you plan your month ahead. Plus, we have a few ways to hel…

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The Must-Buy Gift From Every City Cast City (Including Portland!) 46:43

2M ago46:43

46:43

Join City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza alongside fellow hosts from Austin, Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities for a special episode that’ll help you knock out your holiday shopping early and support small businesses around the country. From a handlebar mount (and app!) …

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3 Portland Chefs Have New Cookbooks: We Tested Them in the Kitchen 35:51

2M ago35:51

35:51

Today we're trying out recipes from three new cookbooks written by some of the Portland food scene’s biggest stars: Joshua McFadden of Ava Gene's, Cathy Whims of Nostrana, and Tyler Malek of Salt and Straw. Producers Giulia Fiaoni and John Notarianni join host Clauda Meza to discuss how easy (or difficult) their recipes are to follow, if they liked…

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Portland’s Best Last-Minute Grocery Store Dishes for Your Holiday Meal 22:50

2M ago22:50

22:50

This time of year can be kind of stressful, with all the holiday potlucks and family dinners stacking up. Today, grocery-deal expert (and Stumptown Savings founder) Bryan M. Vance is here with tips for how to take advantage of premade meals from Portland-area grocery stores for upcoming holidays and potlucks, along with other easy dinner ideas to d…

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Who’s Winning Our City’s Biggest Job? Plus, Oregon’s ‘Economic Malaise’ and RIP Yachats Whale 36:49

2M ago36:49

36:49

This week, we’re looking at the three finalists for our next city administrator, the story behind the whale that washed ashore in Yachats, Ore., and the almost good news from our state’s economists. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are Oregonian business reporter Mike Rogoway and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiao…

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Your Guide To Escape the Gray and Enjoy Portland's Rainy Season 19:43

2M ago19:43

19:43

Portland's rainy season can sometimes feel endless and draining. That's why today we're talking with our resident good-time expert, Eden Dawn. She’s the co-author of “The Portland Book of Dates” and has plenty of ideas to enjoy our city, even when it's raining all day. She's sharing her list of the best places to go and the most fun things to do — …

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Watermark at the Pearl, Where Community Comes to Life (Sponsored) 13:48

2M ago13:48

13:48

In this sponsored episode, City Cast Content Director Andrea Silenzi chats with a resident of the Watermark at the Pearl, a senior living community in the Pearl District designed around connection, creativity and belonging. Andrea speaks with Willow, one of the residents, as well as her furry companion, Lizzie, to talk about what life at the Waterm…

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Trump's Emergency Troop Appeal, a Win Against Zenith, and a New Seasons Holiday Strike? 21:30

2M ago21:30

21:30

Today we’re looking into the last legal battles over Trump's troop deployments and Zenith Energy. We also dig into a potential strike at New Seasons, the consequences for a former Alaska Airlines pilot who endangered 83 lives, and the surprise closures of a legacy craft beer brand. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own e…

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The 25 Restaurants That Put Portland Dining on the Map 26:35

2M ago26:35

26:35

Our city's food scene is widely praised, but that wasn't the case even just 25 years ago. Today, we're talking with the editor-in-chief of Portland Monthly, Brooke Jackson-Glidden, about the 25 restaurants that shaped our food scene over the past 25 years. We're breaking down the trends, cultures, and approaches that shape the way we enjoy food in …

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How the Portland Art Museum Is Leading the Downtown Renaissance 21:49

2M ago21:49

21:49

The ⁠Portland Art Museum’s new Rothko Pavilion⁠ is opening this week. This means the entire museum’s collection will be under one roof for the first time since it opened in 1932. The pavilion represents the last 20 years of executive director Brian Ferriso's vision and direction: unifying the institution, focusing on community experience, and creat…

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Another Threat to Vote-by-Mail, City Hall Takes on Rent Price-Fixing, and Hiring More City Police 39:27

2M ago39:27

39:27

This week, we’re looking into how a Supreme Court decision regarding Mississippi’s elections could impact Oregon and a potential ballot initiative hoping to reallocate 25% of city climate tax revenues to hiring more police officers. Plus, there’s a City Hall proposal to ban rent-setting algorithms from being used in Portland. Joining host Claudia M…

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County DA Nathan Vasquez on Protests, Federal Troops, and the Camping Ban 33:17

2M ago33:17

33:17

Today we're talking with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez about the state of Portland: Does he have a strategy to address the threat of federal interference? With the camping ban back in effect, does his office even have the resources to prosecute those cases? And from his legal point of view, are we really a war-torn hellhole? Bec…

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US Sen. Wyden on Ending the Government Shutdown, Another Troop Deployment Ruling, the Epstein Files, and Much More 20:31

2M ago20:31

20:31

A few recent moves in national politics are affecting everyday Portlanders this week. From a federal judge permanently banning the deployment of National Guard troops in our city to reopening the government without a healthcare deal, and some movement toward finally releasing the Epstein files, a lot is happening. So today on City Cast Portland, Se…

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Alleyways, the Mavericks, Benson Bubblers, and More Portland Icons 21:12

2M ago21:12

21:12

Tomorrow, Nov. 12, is one of the most iconic days in Oregon history. It's the 55th anniversary of exploding whale day — when officials in Florence, Ore. decided to clear a beached whale carcass by blowing it up with dynamite. And it's the 55th birthday of Portland legend, figure skater Tonya Harding. So today on City Cast Portland, we're celebratin…

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Where To Find Pickle Ranch Biscuits, Pink Cabbage, the Best Cup of Coffee, and Other Seasonal Goods 28:09

2M ago28:09

28:09

Whether you’re stocking up on groceries, gifts for the holidays, or just looking for something to do on a Saturday morning, the Portland State University Farmers Market has so much to offer. Some stands only open up for the fall and winter, so you do not want to miss out on all the seasonal goodness. Today on City Cast Portland, we’re touring Portl…

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Parks Measure Succeeds, Tensions Rise Over Avalos Fire, and City Begins Camping Crackdown 41:36

2M ago41:36

41:36

Today we’re looking into the massive parks levy Portland voters just passed, the fire that nearly burned down the already strained relationship between our City Council and the police bureau, and the city's long-anticipated enforcement of the camping ban. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are Oregonian City Hall reporter …

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Oregon’s Strange Culture of Cults 25:56

2M ago25:56

25:56

Oregon has a reputation in popular culture for its long and weird history with cults. Whether it was for the cheap abundant land, mystic moody vibes, or just the lack of competition from organized religion, many groups have come to our state and set up new eyebrow-raising belief systems. Today, we’re revisiting a conversation with Kick Ass Oregon H…

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Why Portlanders Should Read This Book Right Now. Plus, a Look at the Upcoming Book Festival 18:06

2M ago18:06

18:06

It's no secret our city is full of book lovers of all kinds. From graphic novels to dense texts on niche interests, there's a reason we're home to the biggest independent bookstore in the country. But that's not all; we also have our own Portland Book Festival, featuring over a hundred authors and thousands of attendees who take over downtown every…

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The Hidden Corners of PDX To Explore Before Your Next Flight 35:13

2M ago35:13

35:13

Few things generate more civic pride than our beloved airport PDX. Earlier this year, the Washington Post ranked Portland International Airport the best airport in America. Today, we're rounding up our favorite hacks that make any trip to PDX a breeze, from where to eat and drink, to ways you can chill out before boarding during the hectic upcoming…

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Your Guide to November 2025 in Portland 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Whether you’re taking a class to learn about electronic music at Synth Library Portland or spending a rainy day on the water in your own rented crabbing boat, November offers many ways to stay active as the rainy season sets in. City Cast Portland has picked the best of the month’s food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you narrow do…

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They Sent Troops Anyway? Plus, States Sue Over SNAP, and Portland Parks Ask for Funds 36:00

2M ago36:00

36:00

This week, we’re looking into the latest court maneuvering over troop deployments to Portland and the government shutdown's impact on SNAP benefits in Oregon. We’re also breaking down the arguments for and against the Portland parks ballot measure, as well as checking in on endorsements it’s racked up. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roun…

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Police Surveillance Files, Racist Maps, and Other Secrets Hidden in the City Archives 24:03

2M ago24:03

24:03

The Portland City Archives are home to a paper trail capturing every major and minor movement of our city’s history, from mayoral memos to hand-drawn maps. They like to say they have the receipts for everything the city has ever done, in public or private. Today we're talking with City Archivist Madeline Moya about what’s inside this archive, and h…

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More Legal Wrangling Over Troops, Councilor Avalos' House Fire, and a New Candidate for Governor 22:21

2M ago22:21

22:21

This week in Portland, the legal challenges over Trump's troop deployment continue to fly. A fire severely damages a City Councilor’s home. A familiar face enters the 2026 governor's race, and so much more. Plus, we’re unveiling the finalists of our downtown design contest with Pivot Portland! Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is ex…

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Why 311 Will Fix (Almost) All of Your Portland Problems 22:09

3M ago22:09

22:09

Portland is a city full of engaged and concerned citizens; it's not uncommon to talk with your neighbor about a growing pothole on your street or what actually goes in the recycling bin. But sometimes some issues seem far too complicated to resolve, and you just don't know where to start. Today, senior producer Giulia Fiaoni is talking with John Du…

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Whistleblowers Say the Oregon Renaissance Faire Isn't All Fun and Turkey Legs 21:50

3M ago21:50

21:50

The Oregon Renaissance Faire draws over 75,000 visitors and generates millions each year, but behind the scenes, workers have been sounding the alarm on unsafe working conditions. After whistleblowers filed OSHA complaints, inspectors found six safety violations, including head injuries and poor machinery training. Some workers also claim retaliati…