New year, new us. Starting next week, we’ll be sending our newsletter to your inboxes on Thursdays instead of Saturdays. Expect the same hyperlocal content, just delivered a few days earlier to help you plan your weekend.
🎁 To Portland, with love
Benson Bubblers have become so iconic that they’ve been depicted in art — including paintings and tattoos. | Photo via @ericriggsbee
For us? You shouldn’t have.
We think living in Portland is the greatest gift of all, but our city has actually been on the receiving end of quite a few delightful donations. From parkland to major donations, check out these three gifts given to the city.
Benson Bubblers | The iconic copper drinking fountains were first gifted to the City of Portland by Simon Benson, a local timberman and philanthropist, more than 100 years ago. Although rumors about their origin range from a thirsty young girl on the Fourth of July to a ploy to keep loggers out of the saloon, there’s no consensus on why Benson funded these water stations. The 120+ bubblers are now maintained by the Portland Water Bureau.
Terwilliger Parkway |Blacksmith James Terwilliger’s heirs donated about 19 acres of his land to the city in 1909 with the explicit intention of it being used for a “park and boulevard system.” When the full roadway opened in 1914, more than 200 cars paraded along the scenic boulevard.
New year, new relationship goals? As 2025 begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your relationship. Dave Lowe, MS, LPC, shares insights on the Gottman Method — a research-backed approach to improving connection, communication, and intimacy. Discover how this method can help transform your relationship for the better.*
Now Open
Portland nonprofit Literary Arts has opened one of the largest literary centers on the West Coast. Their new headquarters and independent bookstore (716 SE Grand Ave.) will host events + writing classes. Bonus: Shop at the bookstore this holiday, either online or in person, and find something for book lovers of all ages.*
Number
$1.14 trillion. That’s the staggering number that consumer credit card debt reached in 2024, highlighting a widespread financial struggle. If your debt exceeds $10,000, Freedom Debt Relief could help with a personalized debt settlement plan + creditor negotiations — all with one low monthly payment.*
Do you know these cities like a local? | Graphic by 6AM City
Did you know? PDXtoday is part of a team of 28 newsletters across the country. And we want you to get to know all the cities we call home... but we didn’t go easy on you.
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