Good morning, Salem.

Firefighters fought a two-alarm blaze at a commercial complex on Northeast Lancaster Drive on July 11— responders from Salem and Keizer worked to contain the fire as part of a building housing Marion County Health and Human Services and the HIV Alliance partially collapsed with no injuries reported.

Beloved science teacher Jeremy Wanak from Sprague High died on Thursday night when a driver suspected of intoxication hit him while he was biking on Southeast Delaney Road near the 2000 block—authorities later arrested 28-year-old Damon Johnson on charges of manslaughter, DUI, reckless driving and reckless endangering—making this Salem traffic fatality the eighth in 2025.

On Thursday at the Marion County Fair in Columbia Hall at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, five bakers competed in the marionberry pie contest with judges scoring each pie on presentation, crust and filling.

Alicia Duman, a longtime competitor who grew her own marionberries locally, placed second—while first prize went to first-time entrant Michelle Wofford.

Two Oregon lawmakers launched a bipartisan Trade Caucus to boost trade, business development, and international economic policy.

They say the group will let lawmakers address supply chain challenges and local business concerns+ the caucus aims to strengthen Oregon’s trade position through unified discussions on policy.

Misty Bolger—who once helped secure housing for a family—became the new executive director of the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance and now oversees state and federal funds for housing and homeless services in Salem.

Board chair Jeremy Gordon said she plans to improve grant distribution and service coordination amid challenges from state funding cuts—efforts that continue work begun by her predecessor.

Lavender Wreath Making Workshop

11 AM – 2 PM — Arrowhead Lavender Farm & Co. — Cost included — Create your own beautiful lavender wreath with expert guidance in a serene setting.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your neighbors and contribute to the discussion about community improvements.

Emerging Welders Program Information Session

10 AM – 12 PM — WorkSource Oregon - Salem Center — Free entry — Discover the Emerging Welders Program for individuals with criminal convictions in the local community.

Pinot & Pizza Evening

12-6 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Enjoy custom pizzas paired with fine wines in a scenic vineyard setting.

STRIDE 5k/10k Run/Walk in Minto-Brown Island Park

3:45-5:30 p.m. — Minto-Brown Island Park — Participation fee required — Enjoy a community-focused run/walk event with stunning park views and friendly competition.

Ironman Oregon

Blazing fast — Morning — Minto-Brown Island Park — Registration fee applies — Experience one of the fastest IRONMAN 70.3 races with a scenic swim, bike through vineyards, and a flat run.

Nashville at Salem's Historic Grand

5-9 p.m. — Grand Theater — Food and drinks available — Experience an intimate Nashville-style evening featuring original songs and stories from talented songwriters.

Yappy Yoga at Capitol Subaru

6-7 p.m. — Capitol Subaru — Suggested donation of $5-$15 — Practice yoga with your furry friends while benefiting the Oregon Humane Society.

Health Fair at Lancaster Family Health

2-6 p.m. — Lancaster Family Health Center — Free entry — Celebrate better health with screenings, nutrition tips, games, and free food for the whole family.

The Great Oregon Steam-Up

7 AM – 6 PM — Powerland Heritage Park — Various costs — Experience the awe of steam-powered machines and immerse in Oregon's industrial history.