Good morning, Salem.

Mark Wardell, leader of Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, offers step-by-step instructions to help families build an emergency plan by choosing an out-of-area contact and setting meeting points—he uses his own family as an example.

His column also notes an upcoming National Night Out presentation on August 5 to encourage local readiness.

More than 130 women from Salem's business community gathered this evening at Cubanisimo Vineyards for the Chamber Business Women Summer Social, which featured live music by Elizabeth Eck and a spread of Mexican food and desserts.

The event—part of a series to boost leadership among local professionals—received support from Marion County's Economic Development Program and will continue with another luncheon in the fall.

SAIF offers tips for businesses to protect workers from hazardous wildfire smoke as several fires burn across the state.

Companies are advised to review emergency plans, monitor air quality, and retrain employees on proper respirator use (SAIF recommends using protective measures before smoke worsens health risks).

The Salem Housing Authority approved a plan on July 14 to sell 79 older rental homes at below-market rates to help low-income families become homeowners.

Pending federal approval, the agency will work with Habitat for Humanity on 33 homes and offer flexible financing options to current tenants if a unit is demolished—providing relocation support.

Paul Odenthal, a former OSU executive with a history of managing major infrastructure projects — including work on damage assessment after Hurricane Katrina — was named chief operations officer at Salem-Keizer School District and will oversee transportation, building maintenance, safety and technology starting mid-August. He brings extensive experience from directing large school construction programs as the district conducts a facilities assessment.

Downtown Salem is changing quickly as private developers and city officials work to improve the urban core—recent meetings brought local businesses, nonprofits, and staff together to discuss safety, mixed-use projects, and new housing proposals.

City leadership is now reviewing ideas like more police patrols and better parking policies while managing tight budgets.

Cherriots will host a public forum on July 31 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce + 1110 Commercial Street NE, where Salem-area employers will learn about the new Employer-Paid Payroll Transit Tax that will fund transit improvements when it takes effect on January 1. Cherriots’ General Manager + Board of Directors will explain the tax calculation and answer questions from local business leaders.

Coffee Cupping

5:30-7 p.m. — Prismatic Coffee Company — Free entry — Experience the exquisite flavors of El Salvador's Cup of Excellence winning coffees.

10th Annual Run for the Oaks

7 a.m. — Left Coast Cellars — Cost TBD — Celebrate a scenic run on gravel, trail, and paved roads in beautiful Oregon wine country.

Basketball Camp: Point Guard Prep

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The PAC Community Center — $695 — Enhance your child's basketball skills with a focused and immersive training experience.

Disney's Mary Poppins

7:30-10 p.m. — Gerry Frank Amphitheater — Check website for ticket info — Experience the enchanting magic of Mary Poppins under the stars with thrilling performances and live orchestration.

Pinot & Pizza Night at Hudak House

4-8 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Enjoy custom-made pizzas and fine Pinot wines under the stars with live music.

CAMC S-K Car Show

9 AM – 3 PM — Powerland Heritage Park — No Spectator Fee — Celebrate all car makes and models at this vibrant show sponsored by CAMC.

Partner Massage Class

4-6 p.m. — Massage With Fauna, LLC — $75 per pair — Learn to provide nurturing massage techniques in a relaxed workshop setting.

Yoga & Wine Experience

6-8 p.m. — Cubanisimo Vineyards — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a refreshing yoga session with scenic mountain views followed by a post-class beverage.

7th Annual No BS OBS Truck Show and Swap

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Powerland Heritage Park — $20 entry — Experience one of the largest gatherings of 1980-97 Ford trucks and Broncos with vendors, food, and community fun.

The Shinkle Band Live Performance

5-7 p.m. — West Hills Vineyards — Enjoy a delightful evening with live country and rock music while savoring fine wine and bistro bites.