From the Desk Of Vanessa Nordyke
Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke is a mental health advocate, dogmom, and the Executive Director of CASA of Marion County.
Born and raised on Croisan Creek Road, I serve the community that raised me. I’ve worked on projects for at-risk youth, military veterans, domestic violence survivors, persons struggling with mental illness and substance abuse, …
Musical Chairs In CD 5: Round and round she goes- where she stops, nobody knows
When it comes to musical chairs, political candidates are masters of the game. Only one can claim the prize, the others are just left circling the drain. Oregon Congressional District number five has attracted four notable entrants, a Republican incumbent and three Democrats jockeying for position in a race with national implications for party control in
Publisher Perspectives: Should Business Leaders in Salem Step into Politics?
In Salem's commercial heart, a pressing conversation intensifies: Should our city's business visionaries navigate the intricate maze of politics? Particularly now, as both our city of Salem and the broader state stand influenced by a progressive majority. While these leaders bring forth passionate ideals, there's a palpable sentiment suggesting that the g
From the Desk of Julie Hoy
Every day presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. As someone deeply embedded in the restaurant business, taking on the responsibility of a City Council seat was no small feat. A combination of efforts and the unwavering support of our community propelled me into this position. It wasn't about my aspirations. Rather, a collective call
New Salem-Keizer Superintendent Brings Changes to the District
Salem-Keizer introduced new superintendent Andrea Castaneda this summer and she’s quickly made an impression on the community.
Within her first 100 days in office, her focus was on board relations, teaching and learning, student and community engagement and operations, safety, and finance.
Dr. Satya Chandragiri was the first person of color to be sel…
Publisher Perspectives: Salem at a Crossroads- Democracy, Fiscal Responsibility, and the Forthcoming Payroll Tax Vote
The beauty of a well-functioning democracy lies not just in the engagement of its citizenry, but also in the trust established between the people and their elected representatives. This trust is rooted in transparency, respect for the voice of the majority, and judicious fiscal management. Today, Salem stands at a significant crossroad that will define it
Savior or privateer? The “Good Ship” OHSU offers refuge from troubled seas to Legacy’s fleet of hospitals and Clinics
Oregon entered uncharted waters last week with the announcement that Legacy Health System, a private healthcare provider, would ‘merge’ with the state-sponsored Oregon Health and Science University. While the word ‘merger’ has a softer and gentler tone, make no mistake - this is an acquisition. Mergers generally are distinguished as two entities
From the Desk Of Congresswoman Andrea Salinas
Oregon is experiencing an economic revolution powered by advancements in technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The 117th Congress was among the most productive in memory with the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. Together, these bills account for investments of more than $3.4
Representative Helfrich Sends Letter to Governor Kotek Urging State Disaster Declaration for Oregon Cherry Industry
SALEM, OR – This week, Representative Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River) sent a letter to Governor Tina Kotek urging her to issue a State Disaster for Oregon’s cherry industry.
Sweet cherries are one of the state’s top 20 most valuable commodities, but, due to harsh weather conditions and Oregon’s cherry crop overlapping with California cherry harvest, …