We know, you’re used to seeing us at the bottom of the newsletter, but since it’s been two-and-a-half years since we officially presented ourselves as the faces of PDXtoday, we thought it might be time to say hi to our 51,000 subscribers. So, allow us to reintroduce ourselves.
Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or just signed up — we’re City Editors Ben and Cambrie, it’s nice to meet you.
Where are you from?
Ben: I grew up in a small town called Rogue River, about 4 or 5 hours south of Portland (depending on that Wilsonville traffic), surrounded by mountains and trees, which now makes it impossible to live anywhere that isn’t green.
Cambrie: I spent my elementary school years in Florence, before my family moved to La Pine in Deschutes County. Transitioning from the mild winters of the coast to months of snow and ice was a steep learning curve, but my understanding of Oregon’s dual personalities is better for it.
What’s your favorite event around the city?
B: There’s nothing that brings the community together in joy quite like the Vaux’s swift watch every September, plus it’s fun to photograph.
C: We often hear things like “if you don’t like months of gray skies and rain, you shouldn’t live here” but long stretches of dreary weather can weigh heavy on the best of us. The Portland Winter Light Festival literally brightens my outlook and helps me power through the final push to spring.
You can buy a house in any neighborhood, where do you look?
B: Definitely Goose Hollow — I’d have easy access to Washington Park and Hoyt Arboretum, I could walk to every Timbers and Thorns game, and I’d probably eat even more Reuben sandwiches than I already do.
C: Sellwood-Moreland. Quieter, slower days and a small-town vibe are my bread and butter.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about Portland?
B: People can be more friendly and optimistic about our city than you expect, and that includes us — don’t hesitate to reach out.
C: Folks who don’t live here have told me they would never walk around the city because it’s “too dangerous.” As with any larger city, you need to be alert and smart, but I’ve never felt unsafe while out and about.
See how we’ve changed since 2022 and get to know Alaina McIntyre, the third member of the PDXtoday team.
