Good morning, Salem.

Craig Smith, a local volunteer and agribusiness executive, has been chosen as the new executive director of Union Gospel Mission and will replace Dan Clem on May 1—he plans to strengthen the organization’s local community ties.

Smith will continue at Far West Agribusiness Association until the end of April.

Officials from the U.S. Department of Education rescinded Biden-era waivers that allowed undocumented college students at Oregon colleges to access federal TRIO programs, leaving nearly 1,700 students without key support— tutoring, counseling, and financial planning.

Today, PacifiCorp is part of work on Oregon bills that would limit lawsuits for powerline-ignited wildfires if utility safety plans are approved.

Legislators Rep. Pam Marsh and Rep. Kevin Mannix support a plan to form a fund for wildfire damage—critics say the costs may shift to customers.

Governor Tina Kotek proclaimed April to be Oregon Arbor Month statewide on March 31—she said the proclamation urges communities to plant and protect trees as urban areas grow and face climate challenges.

A project led by the YMCA to combine over a dozen social service providers into a downtown hub fizzled out after state officials pulled funding on March 18—funding shortfalls and building issues forced a change in plans.

More than 20 local groups are now planning to reconvene while state lawmakers consider a revival in the 2026 session.

On March 29, Governor Kotek declared a state of emergency for severe flooding in southeastern Oregon that damaged homes, roads, and commerce; the state—covering Harney County and the Burns Paiute Reservation—has activated multiple agencies to support flood response and public safety through April 30.

OLCC recalled two flavors of Lissa’s Fresh Baked Cookie Bites because the labels did not list the milk allergen — a risk to public health.

The recall affected products sold at 37 recreational marijuana stores in Salem and other cities between November 2023 and March, and consumers are advised to destroy any they have.

A report by the Oregon Health Authority showed that deaths under the Death With Dignity Act dropped from 386 to 376 in 2024 even as prescriptions rose from 561 to 607.

Lawmakers met in a work session Monday and discussed Senate Bill 1003, which would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to prescribe end-of-life medications and cut the waiting period to 48 hours.

Salem Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet, Auction and Fundraiser; An Evening for Conservation

Salem Ducks Unlimited is hosting it’s Annual Banquet, Auction and Fundraiser at the historic Mission Mill in downtown Salem on Saturday April 5th. This Evening for Conservation will feature oral and silent auctions, raffles and games featuring artwork, sporting goods, home and yard decor, an American Eagle Gold Coin and 20 Firearms!!!!

Salem Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet, Auction and Fundraiser; An Evening for Conservation

Salem Ducks Unlimited is hosting it’s Annual Banquet, Auction and Fundraiser at the historic Mission Mill in downtown Salem on Saturday April 5th. This Evening for Conservation will feature oral and silent auctions, raffles and games featuring artwork, sporting goods, home and yard decor, an American Eagle Gold Coin and 20 Firearms!!!!

ColorSync: The Cut Methodology

10 AM – 3 PM — Salon Abode — Cost Info — Master strategic hair cutting techniques for high-impact results.

Greeters Hosted by SBBI

8:30-10:00 a.m. — Northern Lights Theatre Pub — No entry fee — Network with local businesses and discover word-of-mouth marketing strategies.

The Princess and The Wind

4:00 – 5:15 PM — South Salem High School — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the world premiere of a mesmerizing ballet inspired by Mayan folklore, combining music and dance to tell a beautiful story of love and transformation.

2025 ONRQC Annual Conference

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Salem Hospital - Building B — Includes breakfast and lunch — Engage in a day of evidence-based practices featuring a keynote from renowned nursing leader Elizabeth Bridges.

Needle Felting Class - Nest

6-8 p.m. — CreativiTEE & rofe designs — Pre-registration required — Learn to needle felt a wool nest and expand your fiber arts skills with a fun spring project.

Resource Fair for Individuals with IDD

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Salem Convention Center — Free entry — Connect with valuable resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and enjoy family-friendly activities.

April Paint Night at Valiant The Sandwich

6-8 p.m. — Valiant The Sandwich — Cost varies — Unleash your creativity with a fun paint night while enjoying delicious sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere.

Stargazing Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $10 — Explore key terms for night sky observation, followed by a live stargazing session with hands-on app use.

Make Parenting a Pleasure Workshop

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Willamette Family Medical Center: Fay Shannon — Registration required — Discover parenting insights and boost your confidence in family goals through engaging education.