Tuesday, March 18th, 2025

Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Salem.
Good morning, Salem. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 18th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Mr. Sprinkles, a unicorn with a rainbow mane and 3D printed braces, was revealed at the Hazel Patton Riverfront Carousel on Friday during an event with rainbows and cupcakes to honor Dr. Johnson’s program that gives free braces to foster children and kids with serious illnesses — he based the design on a stuffed animal that helped over 200 children get braces. Salem Reporter
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ ODOT warns drivers that scam texts claiming unpaid toll fees are not from the DMV and ask for immediate payment to avoid fake fines—drivers should delete the messages and block the sender to protect their personal information. Statesman Journal
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ On March 15, heavy rain did not stop bagpipers and drummers from leading a St. Patrick’s Day walkabout at Riverfront Park—organizer Ceilí of the Valley has held the event for 14 years. The walkabout started at noon, passed along Northeast Court and Liberty Streets, and ended back in the park. Salem Reporter
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Public K-12 schools, including Salem-Keizer Public Schools, will have spring break from Monday, March 24 through Friday, March 28. Oregon public universities such as Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Portland State University, Western Oregon University, Eastern Oregon University and Southern Oregon University will also observe their break during that week. Statesman Journal
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Oregon Department of Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Coordination Center to Level 3 on March 17th in response to heavy rain that flooded small streams, creeks and rivers across western Oregon and led to urban flooding with increased risks of landslides and rockfalls in steep areas. Local and Tribal emergency centers have joined efforts while officials advise residents to follow weather updates, avoid travel if possible and prepare for power outages. 1430 KYKN
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A commemorative bench was dedicated yesterday at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training to honor former Marion County Sheriff Jason Myers (who died of cancer in October at age 56) as family members and law enforcement attended the ceremony. Statesman Journal
- ➤ Oregon lawmakers passed a bipartisan bill that extends taxes on insurance premiums and hospitals until 2032 to keep the Oregon Health Plan funded— the measure now goes to Gov. Tina Kotek's desk following a Senate vote of 22 to 5. Statesman Journal
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Oregon health officials said the flu season is the worst in 15 years and urged people to get the flu vaccine as hospitalizations continue and vaccinations are down 4% from last year—officials warned that a late-season uptick in cases may occur. Statesman Journal
- ➤ LaTasha Williams lost her daughter Essence from preterm complications and later credited doula care for helping her safely deliver her son Mekai; state Sen. Lisa Reynolds is introducing a Momnibus package to expand doula services and related supports for Black mothers—steps aimed at addressing serious care disparities. The package also outlines measures to protect housing and enhance tax credits for young families. Salem Reporter
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Salem.
-
Infant and Toddler Storytime at Salem Public Library
Youth Services staff will lead an engaging storytime session featuring stories, songs, and rhymes for children aged 0 to 2½ with their caregivers.
-
Mid-Valley Home Show 2025
The Mid-Valley Home Show features exhibits showcasing home improvement products and services, along with opportunities to interact with local experts in a family-friendly environment.
-
The Teacher Show: Stand-Up Comedy Night
This stand-up showcase features local comedians who are also teachers, sharing humorous insights on classroom dynamics.
-
Jordan World Circus Performance
The Jordan World Circus features thrilling performances suitable for all ages and is hosted at the Salem Armory Auditorium.
-
Crochet & Craft Evening for Teens
Teens are invited to bring their crochet, knitting, or fiber art projects to this free drop-in session for creativity and conversation at Salem Public Library.
-
Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class
3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn the art of wire wrapping to create stunning jewelry pieces with personal flair.
-
Ladies’ Pool Time
1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $1 entry — Enjoy a friendly billiard session exclusive to women of all skill levels.
-
Preschool Storytime
10:15 – 10:40 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for young children and their caregivers.
-
Spring Craft and Vendor Show at Showbiz Salem 2025
The Showbiz Salem Spring Craft and Vendor Show will feature various vendors and craft booths at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem, Oregon.
-
Paint Your Pet Class
1-5 p.m. — Heroes Tap House — Ticket required — Unleash your creativity as you paint a portrait of your beloved pet while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

Stay Connected Anywhere with This Powerful Portable Charger
Never worry about dead batteries or missed calls again. This high-capacity, portable power bank is a game-changer for anyone who relies on their devices throughout the day. With the ability to charge up to five devices at once, it’s perfect for families, professionals, and travelers alike.
Its compact design makes it easy to carry, while its powerful output ensures your phone, tablet, earbuds, and more stay fully charged no matter where you are. Say goodbye to low-battery anxiety and hello to uninterrupted productivity.
Whether you’re commuting, on vacation, or working remotely, this charger is your ultimate power solution. Stay connected, stay powered, and never miss a moment.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Salem.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours.
Know who said this? Send us an email!
Reveal the authorAbout Daily Salem
Welcome to the Daily Salem, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Salem, Oregon community. If you like the Daily Salem, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Salem.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Salem and across Oregon. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Daily Salem
A free Salem community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.

© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://dailysalem.com/sitemap