Good morning, Salem.

The Oregon Department of Justice appealed a federal judge’s dismissal of a criminal charge against DEA agent Samuel Landis—who ran a stop sign in Salem on March 28th, causing the fatal collision with cyclist Marganne Allen—and said the judge ignored federal law and DEA policy in his ruling.

Salem has a busy week with family and cultural events including Oregon Ag Fest at the State Fairgrounds from April 26 to 27, free Earth Day celebrations at Spong’s Landing County Park on April 26, and a Texas-themed comedy at Infinity Room today—featuring comedians James Woods and Nate Hernandez. Other highlights are an outdoor plant sale at Bush’s Pasture Park from April 25 to 26, a spring fundraiser at Keizer Civic Center on April 26, a market of eerie art at the Convention Center on April 27, a climate-themed play at Willamette University Theatre through April 26, and a Swan Lake performance at Historic Grand Theatre on April 30—offering diverse local experiences.

Salem’s construction industry is expected to add 17,000 job openings over the next ten years as more workers earn higher wages through focused job training—manufacturing jobs, especially in durable goods, have steadily declined due to offshoring and technology changes.

Local workforce programs are helping job seekers and employers adapt to these shifts.

Teacher Tyson Gilmour teaches biology and coaches track at South Salem High School while pushing every student to succeed.

He was nominated for a Crystal Apple Award to be presented on May 29 and his family carries a legacy in education—his wife won the same award in 2015.

The Elderberry Wisdom Farm just south of Salem had its $750,000 grant unfrozen after U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas wrote a letter, allowing the farm to plant about 1,000 native trees in areas that need more shade.

Founder Rose High Bear said the farm uses traditional knowledge to restore habitats and train Indigenous and underrepresented students for agriculture careers — and they will continue their work even as other federal grants remain on hold.

Today during International Dark Sky Week, Oregon residents and visitors can enjoy the largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world, a 2.5 million-acre area with 1.7 million acres managed by the BLM where nearly 15,000 stars brighten clear skies—providing a rare glimpse of nature's unpolluted nightscape. Visitors are advised to check weather, road conditions, and to carry extra water and warm layers—helping them prepare for a safe outing.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield joined 11 other state attorneys general in filing a lawsuit in New York to block tariffs on nearly all imported goods, which they argue are unlawfully imposed by the Executive Branch.

Rayfield plans to discuss the suit with reporters later today — the lawsuit challenges tariffs on goods from China, Canada, Mexico, and more.

Oregon Housing and Community Services announced the selection of housing developments in several communities, including Salem, for the Oregon Multifamily Energy Program that allocates $1.8 million to improve energy efficiency in affordable housing and lower utility costs for low-income families. The funding awards include $778,000 for existing buildings & $1.047 million for new construction, with the projects expected to serve 898 households.

At Salem Health’s State of Health Care event Tuesday, emergency staff detailed how a growing and aging population has led to longer wait times and more severe cases, reporting their emergency department treated over 115,000 patients in recent years.

They highlighted improvements such as new CT scanners and rapid response equipment—tools that help save lives—while noting challenges in meeting increased demand.

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.

Oregon Ag Fest

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free for kids 15 and under — Experience hands-on activities and learn about the vital role of agriculture in Oregon.

Pine Needle Basket Making Class

9 AM – 12 PM — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn to weave beautiful baskets with experienced instructors in this engaging arts and crafts class.

Line Dancing Classes

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $20 punch card for five classes — Get moving with fun line dancing sessions suited for both beginners and intermediates.

Writers Group Gathering

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Share your stories and connect with fellow writers in a supportive environment.

Marion County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale

May 2-3 — Columbia Hall — Free entry — Discover over 10,000 plants including vegetables, perennials, and special fuchsia baskets for Mother’s Day.

Awesome 3000

8 AM – 1 PM — McCulloch Stadium — Free entry — A long-standing youth event featuring exciting participation from Salem-Keizer and the surrounding areas.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons Concert

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Cost info not specified — Experience the vibrant classical charm of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performed by the Oregon Symphony.

Salem Saturday Market

4-9 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate local craftsmanship with over 150 vendors offering handmade and homegrown treasures.