🌮 Our Pet of the Week, St. Patty's Day, and a Super Contract Extension

Salem is buzzing right now!

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Ernie Samora & Jacob Espinoza
March 13, 2025

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A few weeks ago, I was talking to a friend about an idea. I wanted to find a way to combine my passion for community with an opportunity to provide a platform to increase exposure for business owners I know Salem can trust.

From that conversation, the WHS Business Collective was born. This week I started telling people about it. Then I organized my ideas in a Google Doc and started telling people about it. I'm excited to say people have been loving the idea.

So much so that we had our first four businesses sign up this week. These are businesses who I HIGHLY recommend working with and are helping support all the work we do at What's Happening Salem

You can support us by supporting them.

Interested in joining the collective? Let me know by replying to this email.

If we started sending recaps of our school board and city council meetings, would you want them?

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What's inside:

And much more. Let's explore what's happening, Salem!

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Hey Salem! Got a tech-savvy teen in your life? 

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This six-day experience is for high school juniors and seniors.  And it isn't just about coding – it's about showing teens how technology can create real change in our communities. 

  • Salem Residential Camp: July 20-25, 2025

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The best part? Every participant automatically qualifies for a $3,000 scholarship if they later choose to attend Willamette University. 

Don't let your teen miss out on this chance to connect with new friends and expert mentors.

Community Updates

Spotlight on the Superintendent’s Contract Extension

The Salem-Keizer School Board recently voted to extend Superintendent Andrea Casta’s contract by three additional years. During discussions, board members used words like “bold,” “transparent,” and “committed” to describe her leadership. They also highlighted her consistent communication with teachers, community groups, and families, pointing to a sense of trust building across Salem-Keizer.

As the leader of Oregon’s second-largest district, Superintendent Casta is credited for her transparent approach, calm demeanor, and emphasis on student outcomes.

New Interim City Manager

The Council unanimously appointed Kristian Nuru as Interim City Manager through at least September 2025. Ms. Nuru, who has been serving as Acting City Manager since February 10, will continue at her Deputy City Manager salary level while the city pays the former City Manager's severance package.

Airport Landing Fees

Council approved modifications to landing and aircraft parking fees at Salem-Willamette Valley Airport. Many pilots from the aviation community testified about concerns regarding the potential closure of Runway 16-34 and the use of Vector, a third-party company, to collect landing fees.

Temporary Relief for Hommani Hotel

Council granted a 60-day extension for the Hommani Hotel to pay December and January transient occupancy taxes and waived associated penalties. The hotel is appealing its property tax assessment, which representatives say is higher than the Ritz-Carlton in Portland.

Riverfront Park Carousel • 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Celebrate the unveiling of Mr. Sprinkles, the newest addition to Salem Carousel’s herd, sponsored by Dr. Cole Johnson! Enjoy complimentary snacks (while supplies last) and be among the first to take a ride on this charming new carousel figure.

Infinity Room • 9:00PM

Laugh away heartbreak at "Roast Your Ex" night, where host Cheri Hardman and a lineup of comedians take on dating disasters and relationship woes. Whether you’re over your ex or still healing, bring a photo (or voodoo doll!), enjoy the hilarious roasts, and leave the baggage behind!

🍀2nd Friday Céilí | March 14

VFW Marion Post • 7:00PM

Join for a special St. Patrick’s Day Céilí

State Capitol • 11:00AM - 3:00PM

Celebrate Cherry Blossom Day with a day of Japanese culture, music, and performances, including taiko drumming, martial arts, traditional music, a kimono fashion show, and bon dancing. Enjoy booths, activities, and free entertainment as the cherry trees bloom in full glory!

Elsinore Theatre • 2:00PM

Step into a world of myths and legends in this fantastical, family-friendly adventure, featuring spectacular puppets and legendary creatures like the Stone Troll, Indrik, Baku, Griffin, and a not-so-sweet Tooth Fairy.

Summer St and Marion St • 9:00AM - 2:00PM

Join the luckiest crawl of the year!

The Yard Food Park • 6:30PM - 9:30PM

🍀St. Patrick's Party | March 15

HonkyTonk Bar & Grill • 8:00PM - 12:00AM

Historic Grand Theatre • 8:00PM

Half Penny • 12:00PM - 11:30PM

The Triangle Tavern • 6:00PM

Santiam Brewing • 5:00PM - 9:00PM

Sing your heart out this St. Patrick’s Day with Low Bar Chorale, belting out Irish and Celtic-inspired rock anthems from The Cranberries, U2, The Pogues, Van Morrison, Hozier, and more. No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm, raise a pint, and join the live band for an unforgettable, high-energy sing-along! Sláinte! 🍀🎶

State Fairgrounds • 2:00PM - 6:00PM • FREE

Learn from local providers and agencies about services for individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities.

Salem Public Library • 4:00PM - 4:30PM • FREE

Sensory Storytime offers a welcoming, inclusive experience for children with sensory processing sensitivities or who are on the spectrum, featuring interactive stories, movement, and a calming environment.

Discover More Events: Check out our BRAND NEW event calendar right here.

🐶PET OF THE WEEK: Honey

This 7-month-old Boston Terrier might be small, but she’s got a big personality. Nicknamed “The Bucket” when she’s up to no good, she’s all about making friends, crushing it in puppy school, and demanding non-stop snuggles. And if you hear some snorting, don’t worry—that’s just her channeling her inner piglet.

Clink is Hiring!

Clink! is a French-American bar and bistro opening in June 2025 in Salem, Oregon. We focus on delivering a sophisticated dining experience with a seasonal menu that complements our mocktails and cocktails. We’re seeking a creative and detail-oriented Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and develop Clink!’s signature menu for our primarily female guests.

Click below to learn more about each role:

Do you have positions you need to fill in your business? We can help.

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Thanks for keeping up with Salem this week!

Spotted something interesting in town? Drop us a note at [email protected] We love hearing from you.

See you next Thursday,

Ernie