Good morning, Salem.

Sue Bloom retired Friday after 15 years leading the Boys & Girls Club in Salem, where she grew programs like the new club branch and workforce training for teens+ starting in May she will work with the Epping Family Foundation to build a resource hub for families in North Lancaster.

Burgerville fans camped overnight at the new Salem location to be among the first 100 customers and receive a $230 gift card + the grand opening drew high interest from local fans eager to try the restaurant's menu.

Eight candidates are running for four nonpartisan Salem-Keizer School Board seats in zones covering west, southeast, east and central areas.

Two political action committees—Community for Salem-Keizer Schools and Marion+Polk First—are backing opposing slates while voters must register by April 29 and cast ballots by May 20.

On April 25, about 50 city employees and volunteers planted dozens of native trees near parking lot 3 at Minto-Brown Island Park for Arbor Day—using gloves, shovels, and water—and the project was funded by a city plan approved in 2022.

On April 22, a longnose lancetfish with a gaping mouth and fang-like teeth washed up on a Seaside beach, measuring nearly 5 feet long with large eyes.

The Seaside Aquarium said they study these deep-sea fish—common to the Oregon Coast each spring and summer—to learn more about changes in the marine food web.

Oregonians can watch the overlapping Lyrid and Eta Aquarids meteor showers tonight— the Lyrids, active since April 17, end tonight while cloud cover may affect viewing across the valley.

Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell announced her run for governor to challenge Gov. Tina Kotek in 2026; she posted her campaign website on Facebook Friday and plans to formally announce her bid in early summer—focusing on housing, public safety and boosting the economy.

Bethell, now in her fifth year as commissioner, has led efforts in disaster relief and recovery in the region.

Salem Reporter’s investigation found that Oregon’s civil commitment system failed unsheltered people like Melinda Lou Kayser—who died of hypothermia on a Salem sidewalk last November—and that high legal barriers and limited treatment left many without proper care.

The report said state lawmakers are considering reforms to lower thresholds and boost long-term mental health help.

Salem voters will decide on May 20 who fills the open Ward 6 seat on city council after former Councilor Julie Hoy became mayor.

Candidates Mai Vang, Logan Lor and Deanna Garcia are campaigning on issues such as a $13.8 million budget shortfall—public safety and homelessness are key concerns for north Salem.

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.

Mother's Day Brunch

11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Oregon Garden Resort — Pricing not specified — Delight in a festive brunch featuring brunch favorites and a visit to the serene botanical garden.

Crochet & Slay for Teens

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Craft, socialize, and explore fiber arts in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.