Good morning, Salem.

On Sept. 11, a crane with extra counterweight pulled a drift boat free from the North Santiam River after it had been stuck at Mill City Falls for over a month—rescue teams had earlier saved the two men aboard from dangerous rapids.

Roth’s workers called off a planned strike after reaching a tentative agreement—this deal gives significant wage increases and improved benefits for 60 employees in nine stores including Salem.

Union members will soon vote on the agreement to finalize the deal.

Agility Robotics opened the world’s first factory for commercially used humanoid robots in Salem in 2024 — where it presented its robot Digit to show its abilities.

The demonstration of Digit’s performance highlighted a key step in bringing advanced robotics to market.

The Salem-Keizer School Board discussed a new equity resolution that removed mentions of racism to focus on school values, and board members said they would vote on the measure in October.

The board also reviewed plans to sell the Centennial School property and a field near Chavez Elementary as a cost-saving measure—steps aimed at streamlining district operations.

From April to August, Oregon recorded its fourth driest period since 1895—with many areas now in severe drought that raised wildfire and agricultural concerns.

Gov. Tina Kotek declared drought emergencies in several counties to expedite water-related permits and assistance.

On Sept. 11, incumbent Mayor Julie Hoy filed for re-election and Councilor Vanessa Nordyke announced her run for mayor in Salem — they are the first candidates in the race.

The nonpartisan primary election is set for May 19 and the campaign will focus on city spending, public safety, and homelessness.

Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke filed to run for mayor on Thursday, challenging incumbent Julie Hoy in the May election.

Nordyke said she will support vulnerable families and boost transparency—drawing on her nonprofit and legal experience to guide her work.

Lawmakers are meeting from September 29 to October 1 to debate if Oregon should disconnect the state tax code from federal tax cuts that could lower tax revenue by about $400 million next year.

They will decide whether to call a special session—an option that might preserve revenue—while reviewing the current rolling reconnect policy.

The 2026 election season in Oregon officially began last Thursday as candidates filed to run for U.S. Senate, Congress, governor, labor commissioner and local offices — including competitive seats in Salem — with incumbent Sen. Merkley and several officeholders expected to seek reelection.

State leaders raised Medicaid rates by an average of 10.2%—up from earlier offers—to cover rising costs and keep groups like PacificSource in the Oregon Health Plan.

Some organizations are still reviewing the new rates as talks over program changes continue.

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.

Youth Coordinated Entry Program Visit

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Learn about housing assistance and resources for youth ages 14-24 from local community organizations.

October Salem Stoic Society Meeting

5:00 – 6:30 PM — IKE Box Café — Free entry — Explore practical Stoicism to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience with like-minded individuals.