Apologies for the delay — thanks for your patience this week.

Today we're diving into all things Mother's Day, plus a BIG roundup of summer camps to get your kids signed up for. We did our best to round them all up, but if we missed one, send it our way and we'll update the web version.

Good news on the weather front: cloudy skies, but no rain in the forecast.

ALSO: It's opening weekend for both the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes and the Mavericks League. Looking for something to do? We've got you covered.

Also, every Tuesday I’m writing about a topic based on what this audience wants me to write about.

What should I write about next week? Let me know by replying to this email.

Enjoy your weekend Salem!

Jacob

Champ Camp keeps kids active all summer with games, crafts, outdoor play, and hands-on activities hosted directly on Salem school campuses. Flexible full-time and part-time options make it an easy fit for busy families.

Camp Greider brings classic outdoor camp fun to West Salem with swimming, hiking, canoeing, archery, gaga ball, and themed camp weeks packed with adventure and teamwork. 

Camp Sunchasers offers full-day camps filled with swimming, games, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and weekly activities designed to keep kids active and social all summer long.

The Boys & Girls Club returns with weekly themed camps featuring sports, art, tech, games, gardening, and outdoor activities. New this year is a dedicated Kindergarten Summer Camp at the Eastwood Branch.

Camp Kroc offers themed summer camps packed with swimming, rock climbing, sports, STEM projects, games, and crafts. Weekly themes range from dinosaurs and LEGO to gaming, Bluey, and space adventures.

Since 1938, Camp Silver Creek has given kids the chance to unplug and explore the outdoors through hiking, canoeing, swimming, campfires, and overnight adventures deep in Silver Falls State Park. 

OSU 4-H Summer Camps combine outdoor adventure with hands-on learning through canoeing, fishing, archery, hiking, crafts, and campfire activities focused on confidence and teamwork.

Young dancers can enjoy a full week of dance, acrobatics, games, and creative movement in this high-energy camp built for elementary-age performers. 

These themed three-day camps mix dance, games, and creative activities to keep younger kids moving, learning, and having fun throughout the summer.

Campers build singing and performance skills throughout the week before showcasing solo, duet, and group performances for friends and family.

This basketball camp focuses on shooting, footwork, confidence, and game-speed reps led by South Salem varsity coaches and players.

This fun summer swim league helps kids improve confidence and skills in the water while enjoying team-based competition and activities. 

Young athletes rotate through drills, games, and football skill stations in this upbeat camp focused on teamwork, confidence, and fun. 

This faith-based sports camp combines games, teamwork, and activities focused on perseverance, courage, and having fun with others.

Teens can explore cybersecurity careers through hands-on learning, guest speakers, workplace simulations, and technical skill-building. No experience required.

This immersive leadership program uses hands-on simulations and teamwork activities to help students build confidence, communication skills, and civic engagement.

Summer baseball is back in Keizer as Mavericks League Baseball kicks off opening week at Roto-Rooter Park! The Volcanoes, Mavericks, Campesinos, and Senators all hit the field throughout the week with rivalry matchups, themed nights, and even a Sunday doubleheader packed into the schedule. There are plenty of chances to catch a game, grab a hot dog, and settle into the stands as baseball season returns to the Mid-Valley.

Opening Week Schedule:

Live music, dancing, and community come together once again at the monthly 2nd Friday Céilí. A beginner lesson kicks things off around 7:15PM before the full evening of traditional Irish dancing gets underway. No partner or experience needed. 

Seattle funk powerhouse Polyrhythmics brings deep grooves, brass, Afrobeat, jazz, and psych-funk energy to the Historic Grand. Their electrifying live shows are the kind that get the whole room moving.

Scientist turned comedian Ben Miller blends volcanology, storytelling, Hawaiian history, and absurd humor into one wildly entertaining comedy show. Somehow educational and chaotic at the same time, Volcano is perfect for curious minds who also like to laugh.

Kick off the STRIDE season with a community 5K through Bush’s Pasture Park. Whether you are chasing a PR, jogging with friends, or just looking for an excuse to get outside, this all ages run/walk is an easy and affordable way to start the weekend moving.

Salem’s hip hop scene takes center stage at NIGHT SHOW, a live showcase featuring local and regional artists alongside sounds from DJ Inferno & Friends. Expect big performances, loud crowds, and a night built around Salem’s creative energy. 

KeizerFEST returns with another huge weekend of carnival rides, food, vendors, entertainment, and community fun at Keizer Rapids Park. This longtime local tradition is one of the Mid-Valley’s biggest spring celebrations, with something happening all weekend long for all ages. Mark your calendars and keep next weekend clear.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with flowers, live music, cider, donuts, and springtime farm vibes at Bauman’s. Moms also receive a free plant while supplies last, plus special $5 treats throughout the day.

Spend Mother’s Day weekend sipping wine and enjoying brunch in the Salem Hills at Willamette Valley Vineyards. Guests can enjoy complimentary pastries, a special brunch menu, and beautiful vineyard views all weekend long.

Country Mama’s Day returns to Salt Creek Cider House with live country music, cider, food, and laid back farm energy. Featuring performances from Skyylar Pelous and Nashville artist Jesse Leigh, this is a fun and relaxed way to celebrate mom.

The Yard opens early for Mother’s Day brunch with special menus from food carts alongside mimosas and Bloody Marys. A great option for families looking for something casual, local, and delicious.

Spirit Mountain Casino goes big for Mother’s Day with an elegant brunch buffet featuring prime rib, salmon, Eggs Benedict, pastries, desserts, and more. Perfect for families looking to celebrate mom with an extra special meal. 

End Mother’s Day with laughs at the Historic Grand as comedians Jane Condon and Alycia Cooper bring sharp observations, family stories, and big personalities to the stage for a fun night out.

Interested in connecting with our audience and supporting the growth of this publication? Simply reply to this email and we can help you get started.

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