Good morning, Salem.

Justin L. Mac, a 46-year-old Salem man linked to the Gypsy Joker Motorcycle Club (noted as the Salem chapter president in 2022), was charged with drug trafficking in California on March 24 after police found 48 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop near Lakehead.

Willamette University hosted award-winning photojournalist John Noltner during his April residency, where he led community portrait sessions and delivered a keynote on his exhibit 'A Peace of My Mind'—the project featured the Radical Belonging collaboration with students and faculty from March 31 to April 7.

Gov. Tina Kotek’s proposal to update groundwater protections led more than 500 people to oppose Senate Bill 1154 as they fear state agencies will take private well water—lawmakers sent the bill to the Senate Rules Committee and plan additional hearings in the coming weeks.

Salem has released its Proposed FY 2026 Budget that aims to close a $13.8 million gap by cutting 51.4 staff positions and reducing services in libraries, parks, and recreation—using one-time revenues and cost-saving measures while the review by the Budget Committee begins on April 16 and a local option levy is set for May 20. Officials say these steps are necessary to balance the General Fund and secure essential services for the community.

Marion County commissioners spoke at the State of the County address at Salem Convention Center on April 9th, praising wildfire recovery work, new addiction recovery and housing projects, and the partnership with the Imagination Library.

They also urged a return of school resource officers and the formation of a joint drug task force to fight drug trafficking — officials say these steps will help improve community safety.

Salem officials released a proposed 2026 budget on Wednesday that would close the West Salem Library and cut main branch hours to 20 per week while reducing library staff and park services.

The plan cuts 51 full-time jobs across departments—shutting off splash pads at smaller parks and canceling youth programs—and will take effect July 1 if voters on May 20 do not pass a property tax measure.

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.

Giveaway - 6 months of FREE Nutrition Coaching

Apply to win 6 months of free 1-1 nutrition coaching with expert nutritionist. It includes a custom & unlimited meal plans, weekly 1-1 coaching, blood work analysis, & community support. This is designed to boost energy, improve gut health, reduce stress around food, and support long-term healthy habits. This is your chance to become that healthy, vibrant person that has learned how to find that balance between fun & feeling your best. Applications are open from April 7th-13th—apply now for a chance to transform your health!

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.

2025 USA Gymnastics Region 2 Xcel Championships

8 a.m. — The Pavilion — Parking $10 — Top gymnasts compete for glory from States across the region.

Oregon Ag Festival

All day — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Admission details not provided — Discover Oregon agriculture through hands-on exhibits and family-friendly activities.

Communications and Outreach Specialist

We’re looking for a Full-Time Communications and Outreach Specialist to help strengthen our visibility, reputation, and connection with the communities we serve. For full job description and application go online at https://www.marionswcd.net/cos25/