The Instigator
Celebrate Virginia Green Day
Take a cue from one of Salem’s most passionate historians. Since arriving in Salem more than 20 years ago, Virginia Green has made her impact on our community. Through her SHINE on Salem history blogs, walking-tour guides, and years of service on the Library Advisory Board, Historic Landmarks Commission, and City Budget Committee, Virginia has helped generations of residents discover Salem’s stories.
On July 9, Salem will officially celebrate Virginia Green Day in honor of her 100th birthday. Mark the occasion by taking a historic walking tour, visiting a heritage site, or simply learning something new about Salem’s past. Her website is a good place to start: shineonsalem.org
Watch the Action
Some people go to Hoopla to compete. Others go to watch. Plenty simply show up to soak in the atmosphere. With thousands of players, packed sidewalks, and basketball around nearly every corner, Hoopla 3X3 Basketball Tournament transforms downtown Salem into something you have to see to fully appreciate. Whether competing on the court or cheering from the sidelines, it’s about bringing people together through basketball. Jul 21 to 26 in downtown Salem. oregonhoopla.com
Cheer for the B-17
Most cruise-ins have classic cars. This one has a B-17 bomber. The B-17 Birthday Cruise-In combines chrome, horsepower, and aviation history for a one-of-a-kind gathering, where visitors can admire vintage vehicles while getting an up-close look at the legendary Lacey Lady. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jul 25 at B-17 Alliance Museum & Restoration Hangar at McNary Field. b17alliance.com
Hunt for Treasure
More than 100 handmade glass marbles will be hidden throughout Salem during The Great Marble Hunt, a citywide search for tiny treasures. Created by a variety of artists, each marble is unique, turning an afternoon of exploration into a chance to discover a one-of-a-kind piece of art while seeing the city in a new way. Sep 13 in downtown Salem. instagram.com/thegreatmarblehunt
Join a Book Club
For more than 40 years, The Book Bin has been connecting readers through thoughtful recommendations and literary events. Furthering reader engagement, they also host several book clubs, from horror and romantasy to queer, sci-fi, and graphic novels. Some are hosted by the shop, some are run by staff, and some meet at other locations, specifically IKE Box Cafe or f/Stop Fitzgerald’s Public House. Learn more and explore upcoming book clubs in our feature story by Natalie Pate here.
PS: Pull up a chair. Writer, mindfulness teacher, and TEDx speaker Jessica Amos will discuss her new book, My Life in Moments, a poetic memoir that weaves together the tender memories and deeply personal experiences that have shaped her life. In conversation with Robyn Saunders Wilson, author of Junkyard Princess, the two will explore memory, storytelling, and the moments that shape our lives. 5 to 6:30 p.m. July 17 at The Book Bin, 450 Court St. NE.
Look Up
Like the Elsinore, the Livesley Building, now known as Capitol Center, also turns 100 this year. While its centennial is uncelebrated, it’s a good excuse to take a stroll downtown to check out the building’s architecture. Have you ever really looked up at it? See who’s looking back? It’s one of Salem’s architectural legacies. 388 State St.
