🌱 Salem High Class Of '44 Sets World Record + Officials Address Crime

Hello all. It's me, Rose Mendez, your host of the Salem Patch newsletter. Here's all the community news you need to know right now, including...

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 75 Low: 50.
• Friday: Mostly sunny and very warm. High: 84 Low: 55.
• Saturday: Very warm. High: 91 Low: 58.

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Here are the top three stories in Salem today:

1. The Salem High School Class of 1944 has achieved an extraordinary feat by establishing a new Guinness World Record for the longest-running reunion, creating a lasting legacy. Spearheaded by Trudie Meier Gavette and Gayle Crozier Priem, who have assumed responsibility for organizing these annual gatherings, the tradition was initiated with their 10-year reunion in 1954. After reaching their momentous 75th milestone a few years ago, the alumni collectively decided to transform the reunions into an annual affair, leading them to pursue recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records. The remarkable achievement will be commemorated on June 17 during the 79th reunion, held aboard the Willamette Sternwheeler in Salem, where Gayle, Shannon Priem (Gayle's daughter), and Trudie Meier Gavette will come together to discuss the significance of this momentous recognition and reflect on the cherished tradition. (Oregon Public Broadcasting)
2. Salem officials are grappling with the challenge of addressing theft and forging stronger connections with residents and business owners by increasing police presence in neighborhoods. However, the plan to deploy around 15 additional officers requires taxpayers to shoulder a heavier financial burden, prompting a request for increased funding. The request comes as the Salem Police Department faces difficulties in recruiting officers and struggles to keep up with the city's population growth and rising crime rates, leading to concerns about public safety and the need for enhanced community engagement efforts. (Salem Reporter)
3. Salem police announced the arrest of Edward William Casian, the 25-year-old father, in connection with the tragic death of his infant child in 2022. Following an intensive investigation, authorities took Casian into custody over a year after the distressing incident occurred. The lifeless body of the 6-month-old baby was discovered by police last year, prompting a harrowing scene that ultimately led to Casian being charged with first-degree murder. His arraignment is scheduled for Thursday afternoon in Marion County. (KOIN)

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Coming up in Salem:

Friday, May 12

• Rob Schneider: I Have Issues Tour - Elsinore Theatre (8:00 PM)
• Salem Saturday Market With The Mae Day Band - Salem Saturday Market (12:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Salem residents are being cautioned about the environmental impact of washing their cars at home due to the potential pollution of nearby streams. The discharge of soap, oil, grime, and grease from home car washes can enter storm drains, which largely flow untreated into local streams. To mitigate pollution, individuals are advised to utilize commercial car washes that recycle their wastewater or alternatively, wash their cars on lawn or gravel areas to allow pollutants to be absorbed into the ground or redirect the water to their lawns. (City of Salem via Facebook)
• The Salem Police Department announced that a Marion County Grand Jury has determined the use of deadly force by a Salem police officer during an officer-involved shooting on May 1 was lawful and justified. The grand jury's decision comes after an extensive investigation by the Oregon State Police, leading to the suspect's indictment on multiple felony charges, including three counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder with a Firearm. (Salem Police Department via Facebook)
• Marion County Commissioners have officially designated the week of May 7-13 as Facilities Management Week, recognizing the essential role of individuals working in facilities management. This proclamation aligns with World Facilities Management Day, observed annually on the Wednesday of the second full week of May, to celebrate the contributions of these dedicated professionals who ensure the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of our office spaces and other facilities. (Marion County, Oregon via Facebook)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. See you all soon for another 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!