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In this issue:

• The perfect storm. A follow-up on the story we broke June 12 about nearly 300 families being terminated from Section 8 housing due to a numbers game in Northwest Oregon: The same disaster is being repeated across the country, with housing authorities shortchanged in funding to cover the demand in this new economic environment. Joanne Zuhl reports.
• Here today... An interview with Bill Wasik, the man who gave us “flash mobs,” on his new book about instant and fleeting fame. Rosette Royale reports.
• Judge finds sit-lie still unconstitutional. Another judge, another ruling against the city — same problem as before. The city’s ‘obstruction as nuisances’ ordinance doesn't pass constitutional muster, court says. Joanne Zuhl and Israel Bayer report.
• Groups helping immigrants survive face legal penalties. Authorities are going after humanitarian groups that leave water for immigrants who cross the desert at the Mexican-U.S. border.
• Murnane Wharf, Marvin Ricks remembered with honors. Portland author Michael Munk writes about the loss of the last surviving participant in Portland’s legendary 1934 Longshoreman’s strike — and good news for commemorating the Murnane Wharf.
• All this, at a 20th-century price! Get yours today, and chime in with your thoughts: Post a comment on our blog or send us e-mail.

Demand HUD meet the full demand of housing our poor, disabled and elderly

The Northwest Oregon Housing Authority (NOHA) notified 285 low-income households that their Section 8 vouchers will be cut off, effective July 1. For some, the assistance is more than 90 percent of their rent. Poverty and unemployment in rural Oregon communities is a serious problem. The state recently reported that homelessness in Oregon has increased 35 percent.

Call the Portland HUD field office at (971) 222-2600 and ask them to restore $550,000 in funding needed to make sure more Oregon families are not kicked to the streets.