Good morning, Salem.

On March 21, the McKay High School Chamber Orchestra will perform with Oregon Symphony violists in a benefit concert to raise money for private lessons, instrument repairs and a Chicago trip—aiming to ease costs for students.

Ticket prices are set at $25 for adults and $5 for students, and proceeds will help reach a $15,000 goal.

Members of two airport advisory groups told city councilors that key details on closing or renovating Salem's secondary runway were withheld at a February work session, and pilots warned that removing the runway could make small-plane landings unsafe.

Public Works will review the cost estimates and look for alternative funding as councilors plan a summer decision.

Salem’s Oregon Public Utility Commission is hosting a virtual meeting on March 18, 2025 at 6 pm PDT to let residents comment on NW Natural’s request for a $61.2 million revenue increase that may raise single-family bills by about $5.55 with an average use of 47 therms a month.

The commission is investigating the filing and will decide in October while new rates are planned to start on November 1, 2025 & comments can be given by phone or online.

Salem announced that construction to make Center Street Bridge earthquake safe will start in fall 2026 as part of a two phase project estimated to cost nearly $300 million and complete by mid-2029.

The work replaces bridge pillars with wider bases and will lead to traffic changes along Center and Front Streets from 2027 to 2028 — and trees from Riverfront Park will be removed with plans to replant after the project ends.

Gov. Tina Kotek fired Oregon Youth Authority Director Joe O’Leary Wednesday after he was placed on leave a month ago amid a backlog of abuse reports and lawsuits against the agency.

Acting director Jana McLellan now leads the agency—an open search for a new director will begin March 31.

Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read on Wednesday removed a flawed audit of the state’s liquor and cannabis commission that played a role in former Secretary Shemia Fagan’s resignation—he said his team will review the audit process and start a new one soon.

St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl at The Dehn Bar

This event features a vibrant St. Patrick's Day bar crawl in Salem, offering drinks, fun activities, and access to exclusive specials across multiple venues.

St. Patrick's Day Cocktail Celebration

Applebee's Grill + Bar invites guests to enjoy festive cocktails themed around St. Patrick's Day, featuring options like the Tipsy Leprechaun and the new Golden Goose, alongside non-alcoholic beverages for all ages.

Infant and Toddler Storytime at Salem Public Library

Youth Services staff will lead an engaging storytime session featuring stories, songs, and rhymes for children aged 0 to 2½ with their caregivers.

Mid-Valley Home Show 2025

The Mid-Valley Home Show features exhibits showcasing home improvement products and services, along with opportunities to interact with local experts in a family-friendly environment.

The Teacher Show: Stand-Up Comedy Night

This stand-up showcase features local comedians who are also teachers, sharing humorous insights on classroom dynamics.

Jordan World Circus Performance

The Jordan World Circus features thrilling performances suitable for all ages and is hosted at the Salem Armory Auditorium.

Crochet & Craft Evening for Teens

Teens are invited to bring their crochet, knitting, or fiber art projects to this free drop-in session for creativity and conversation at Salem Public Library.

Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn the art of wire wrapping to create stunning jewelry pieces with personal flair.

Ladies’ Pool Time

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $1 entry — Enjoy a friendly billiard session exclusive to women of all skill levels.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for young children and their caregivers.