Good morning, Salem.

Firefighters controlled a railroad trestle fire near the South Block Apartments on Commercial St. S.E. early Monday at 8:20 a.m.—by 8:47 a.m. they had sprayed water on the trestle to stop the flames, and no one was hurt.

On June 13, archaeologists held a public open house at Willamette University in Salem to display recovered artifacts and an excavation site from the former Oregon Indian Mission Manual Labor School built in 1841.

The project is a joint effort by the Historic Preservation Program, Willamette University, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde & the Oregon Archaeological Society to share a piece of our local history.

Silver Falls State Park is now accepting camping reservations for stays from June 18 through Sept.

30 after a nine-month construction closure. Campers can book tent + RV sites and cabins 19, 21, 23, and 24 and benefit from the new accessible restroom/shower building in the B-Loop and updated pavement in the A-Loop, while Smith Creek Village opens reservations under a new concessionaire.

Gov. Tina Kotek said on June 16 that lawmakers lack enough votes to use the kicker for wildfire fighting, which has led to proposals to use $1 billion of the tax rebate, $161 million in rainy day fund interest, and a tax on Zyn nicotine pouches.

Senator Jeff Golden’s plan would keep the principal intact to earn about $100 million every biennium + lawmakers may need a special session if no long-term funding source is agreed upon.

On June 16, Salem changed the street signs downtown to prepare for the paid parking system that will launch on July 10.

Parking Enforcement continued to enforce parking rules and share information during the transition—residents were thanked for their patience.

Governor Tina Kotek signaled support for a proposal that would redirect 60% of the kicker tax rebate to fund wildfire work—while the remainder benefits Oregonians earning less than $95k.

Senator Jeff Golden explained the plan would place $1 billion in an interest-bearing account to add about $100 million for wildfire funding every two years if it receives the required two-thirds vote.

Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — Punch card fee $15 for five classes — Learn the art of creating beautiful jewelry pieces with wire wrapping techniques.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free — Engage in interactive stories, songs, and movement designed for young children and their caregivers.

Tube Bending & Iso Drawing Workshop

2-6 p.m. — Local 290 Training CENTER SALEM — Free for Local 290 Members, $35 for UA Travelers — Learn the fundamental math and techniques for bending tubing in this hands-on workshop.

Yarn and Thread Handwork Studio

12:30-2:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Craft your own stylish accessories like stocking caps, scarves, or mittens with guidance from experienced students.

2025 Sumpter Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale

June 27-30 — Sumpter School City Park — Free entry — Discover amazing deals and hidden treasures at this popular neighborhood-wide garage sale in SE Salem.

Free Foot Check Day

10 AM – 4 PM — The Good Feet Store — Free entry — Get your feet evaluated by a healthcare professional to enhance your overall comfort.

Letter Writing Social

2-4 p.m. — IKE Box Café — Bring your own supplies — A creative monthly gathering for letter writing and mail art enthusiasts.

Beginning/Intermediate Woodcarving Class

6:45-8:45 p.m. — Center 50+ — $20 for four classes — Explore your creativity through woodcarving while working on personal or guided projects.

Lavender Wreath Making Class

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Arrowhead Lavender Farm & Co. — Costs vary — Create a beautiful lavender wreath while enjoying a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

4th of July Spectacular

3-11 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free admission — Celebrate Independence Day with food, rides, music, and a spectacular fireworks display.