Good morning, Salem.

Salem neighborhood associations are hosting several events this September—such as a disaster readiness workshop on Sept 16, a clean-up party on Sept 27, and an open house meeting on Sept 17—to boost public safety and ease mural permits for public fences while also promoting peace walks and a kids clothing swap.

Richard K. Gorton, a 75-year-old man from Washington, robbed a downtown Salem bank on Sept.

5 by passing a note for $200 before laying down for arrest—he told police he would commit another robbery if released and he faces a third-degree robbery felony with a court appearance on Sept. 17.

Governor Kotek signed an order on Monday requiring all new state buildings to be built earthquake-proof and all state-owned or leased buildings to be upgraded by 2060 for safe emergency use—this move aims to prepare state offices for the Big One.

The state legislature must approve funding for the retrofits.

Oregon’s child welfare agency said it will expand safe sleep training for foster parents after a 4-month-old died in a bassinet with foam pads—state investigators recommended more detailed guidance on approved sleep environments.

The changes will be completed by Jan 1 and aim to prevent future sleep-related deaths.

On Monday at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, Michael Andersen from the Sightline Institute urged city officials to streamline permitting and adjust zoning rules to build more affordable housing.

His recommendations aim to lower rising rents and homelessness, and the city will review housing code changes in December — efforts that may boost housing development.

Salem city council voted Monday to have city workers explore ways for private groups to help pay for commercial air service at Willamette Valley Airport—avoiding the use of city funds after Avelo left last month.

Council members said the move would support affordable travel without stressing local budgets.

Salem’s doughnuts bring together four local shops—Big Wigs, King’s Donuts, Dough Hook, and Dude Donut City—that offer different flavors and styles to serve a variety of tastes.

Big Wigs rotates inventive vegan treats while King’s builds on classic favorites and the other shops add creative twists to keep the city’s sweet scene exciting.

Yoga + Libations at Lively Station

6-7 p.m. — Lively Station — $5-$10 suggested donation — Enjoy a relaxing outdoor yoga session followed by dinner and drinks in a vibrant setting.

Pinot & Pizza at Hudak House

4-8 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Savor custom pizzas and Pinot while enjoying live music in a scenic setting.

Salem Saturday Market

9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate 27 years of local vendors showcasing handmade and homegrown treasures from the Mid-Willamette Valley.

SPCC Annual Luncheon 2025

12-2 p.m. — Broadway Commons — Free lunch — Enjoy insights from Ben Olson on thriving in relationships with practical tools for connection.

Bringing Sea Otters Back to Oregon

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Venti's Cafe + Beer Vault — Free entry — Discover the importance of sea otters and the ecosystem from a passionate marine biologist.

IN A LANDSCAPE: Riverfront Park

4-10 p.m. — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Experience classical music amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the American West.

Art, Books, and Music Evening

5-7 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — A creative showcase for authors and artists to connect and display their talents.

Beginner ESL Class

3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Participate in a multilingual beginner-level English class with supportive instruction.

Yoga + Coffee at Prismatic

12-1 p.m. — Prismatic Coffee Company — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a midday yoga flow followed by coffee in a sustainable community.

Timeless Footprints with Annette Jensen

2-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Explore how to make a lasting impact on the world around you with an inspiring talk from Annette Jensen.