Oregon is home to about 500 species of bees. You can find them in forests, fields and our own gardens. These busy insects are the main pollinators for 90% of plants, so keeping them healthy is important for the production of food and protection of our environment. But the past decades the little fellows have […]

One year ago, during a sunrise timed run through the neighborhood, I encountered a wild turkey on 19th and Ferry. A beautiful animal, walking the front yards as if it always lived here. And apparently they have. Wild Turkeys are endemic to South Salem. And sometimes a couple stroll over into our southeast neighborhood. The […]
In 2017 Mitch and Mia bought and moved into their first house on Trade St. Soon they discovered Mill Race Park as a favorite stop on the daily dog walks. The park was in a state of neglect – so they decided to turn it back into the family friendly place it is today.
After some of our neighbours wanted to clean up their favourite park, they (and us) discovered the City has lots of support ready for such volunteers.
Support local?!
With the always wholesome Pressplay Salem publishing The Anti-Racist Ally’s Holiday Gift Guide, we are reminded that many locally owned businesses are struggling. If you are looking for takeout, or a holiday gift, why not support local?! Here are some neighborhood options: Plants and flowers 13th Street Nursery – 1298 13th St SE – 13thstreetnursery.net […]
Congratulations to three property owners in SESNA for beautifying the neighborhood – a refreshing, inspiring sight to see during these stressful pandemic times. Take a walk through our neighborhood – you’ll notice so many improvements to homes and yards this year, which makes our choices even harder! SESNA is placing Bright Spot signs at 1865 […]
Get rid of those leaves
When traversing the historic SESNA neighborhood, one of the things standing out are the many and diverse trees lining the streets. These tall companions provide shade on hot days, a respite from harsh winds, cover and living space for all kinds of small animals, color the neighborhood green in summer and colorful in fall… But […]
Re-discovering history
In 2010, after years of close partnership and shared vision, Mission Mill Museum (established 1964) and the Marion County Historical Society (established 1950) merged to form the Willamette Heritage Center. Today the Center connects generations by preserving and interpreting the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley.
Halloween, safe and fun

Halloween, Oregon’s favorite holiday, is only days away. In the face of 2020, what recommendations are there to give? This year Salem City Police is not organising a Halloween Dress Rehearsal. Although last year’s safety tips for going around the neighborhood still stand. Similarly, the Salem Public Library is not hosting a Haunted House. Nor will the […]
A home older than us
Your house is probably your home. And before that it was somebody else’s home. In a historic neighborhood like Southeast Salem, houses have stories to tell.