🌱 Salem Changes Sidewalk Camping Ban + Firefighters Help Alberta

Good morning, everybody! It's me, Rose Mendez, your host of the Salem Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in our community.

But first, your local weather:

• Wednesday: Partly sunny and nice. High: 74 Low: 48.
• Thursday: Partly sunny and pleasant. High: 74 Low: 50.

Business owners and marketers in Salem: Do you want to build awareness with local customers? I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top three stories today in Salem:

1. Due to new Oregon laws, the City of Salem had to change its ban on sidewalk camping that went into effect three years ago. The Salem City Council voted unanimously for the proposed Salem ordinance which will repeal the city’s current restrictions for sitting and laying on sidewalks, as well as leaving unattended property. But the city camping restrictions will remain in parks, building entrances, residential zones, and vision clearance areas, like at intersections. (KOIN)
2. Over the weekend, two Salem high school choirs won state titles at the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) state championship choir competition. South Salem High School won the state championship in division 6A and first place overall with 332 points out of a possible 360 total points. West Salem High School came in second place in division 6A with a score of 319. (Subscription: Statesman Journal)
3. The Oregon Department of Forestry is deploying 22 firefighters to Alberta, Canada to provide extra support in fighting over 100 active wildfires across the province. The Northwest Compact, a mutual assistance agreement between five northwest states and five NW Canadian provinces and territories, creates a "larger and more comprehensive fire management system." For example, Oregon asked for help during the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and more than 7,500 personnel from multiple Canadian provinces and 39 states came to help. (KTVZ)

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Today and tomorrow in Salem:

Wednesday, May 10

• Guest Artist Jordan K.Walker At Salem On The Edge Art Gallery (11:00 AM)
• Live Music Happy Hour With Dylan Santiago At Taproot Lounge & Cafe (4:00 PM)

Thursday, May 11

• Live Music Happy Hour With Dylan Santiago At Taproot Lounge & Cafe (4:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Salem's Riverfront Carousel is hiring a part-time (25 to 35 hours a week) Platform Assistant Manager! For a full list of duties, qualifications, and details about the role or to download an application, click here. Apply in person at the Carousel. (Salem's Riverfront Carousel)
• During Police Recognition Week, Mayor Chris Hoy and the City Council presented members of the Salem Police Department with a proclamation recognizing the contributions, service, and sacrifice of all officers. (City of Salem via Facebook)
• On the lookout for a new home, or just curious about what's out there? Check out the latest homes for sale in the Salem area, including a four-bedroom on Jericho Court for $325,000. (Salem Patch)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday off right. I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with your next update!

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!