Good morning, Salem.

Downtown Salem leaders met April 30 at Grand Theatre to discuss safety, homelessness and cleanliness.

They announced a cleanup, flower baskets on May 16 (local project) and a social hour on May 21 while proposing two community policing officers in the FY2027 budget funded by paid parking revenue.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to dispose of yard debris with care as 23 escaped burns have affected 83 acres and new fire season regulations now require permits for burns in several counties.

Residents should keep water and fire tools ready + burn small piles to reduce wildfire risks.

During a forum at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce on Monday, former Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp — a key adviser to Gov. Kotek — suggested that her prosperity council may recommend lowering the corporate activity tax to boost business, with changes possibly coming in 2027.

State regulators extended their review of the proposed merger between Salem Health and Santiam Hospital & Clinics to assess its impact on patient care and local competition.

The Oregon Health Authority began the review on Tuesday, May 5 and will decide within 155 days—public comments are now invited.

Sonic Journey Sound Meditation

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting — $20-40 sliding scale — Experience profound relaxation and connection through immersive sound meditation with gongs and singing bowls.

10th Annual Run 2 Remember

9:25 – 11:00 AM — Riverfront City Park — Open to all ages — Engage in a memorable community run/walk event to honor and remember.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Accessible entry — Engage with your neighbors to strengthen community ties and voice local concerns.

Paint N' Pints at Willamette Valley Smokehouse

6-8 p.m. — Willamette Valley Smokehouse — Food and beverages available for purchase — Unleash your creativity during a fun painting class with delicious food and brews.

Infant/Toddler Storytime

11:00-11:20 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free — Delight in stories, songs, and rhymes perfect for little ones up to 2 ½ years old.

4th Annual Autism Walk

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Celebrate and support Autistic individuals at this family-friendly event in Salem.

Drop-in Craft at West Salem Branch

5:30 – 6:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Families enjoy a creative evening crafting with provided materials and their imagination.

Marshall Tucker Band Concert

7-9 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic Southern rock with the iconic Marshall Tucker Band.

Teacher Appreciation Night

6:35 – 11:59 p.m. — Chemeketa Baseball Field — Free admission for teachers — Celebrate the amazing educators of our community at the ballpark with a fun-filled evening.

Grupo Barak Concert

6:00pm-9:00pm — L.B. Day Amphitheater — $10 per vehicle — Experience an inspiring night of contemporary worship and Latin rhythms with Grupo Barak.