Daily
Salem
Wednesday, April 8th, 2026
Good morning, Salem. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 8th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Robyn Skog will retire on April 18 after 45 years at See’s Candies at 355 Liberty St. NE+ she started in 1981 and trained many employees, becoming a local fixture. The store will mark its 45th anniversary on April 10 with free tote giveaways to early customers. Statesman Journal
- ➤ This week hosts an alpaca show at the fairgrounds Friday with auctions and competitions, Booklover’s Burlesque Festival opening Thursday night at Grand Theatre with myth and legends themes, and a free dragon boating lesson at Riverfront Park Sunday. A spring gala and an ocean-themed concert also round out Salem's events. Salem Reporter
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Robyn Skog retires after 45 years with See’s Candies in downtown Salem; the shop (opened on April 9, 1981) has served generations of local candy lovers. Her long career marks a cherished era in the store’s tradition. Statesman Journal
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Oregon farmers face tighter margins as diesel fuel and fertilizer prices rise + some plant 30% fewer acres to curb costs amid the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran. Diesel prices have jumped nearly 60% over the last year, affecting crop production and shipping expenses. Salem Reporter
- ➤ SEDCOR will host its 2026 Mid-Valley Economic Summit on Thursday, April 23 at the Salem Convention Center. Networking starts at 7:15 a.m. and a group of state and local economic experts will speak about business growth. Salem Business Journal
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Over 108 educators from Salem and Keizer were nominated for the Crystal Apple Award, with Leslie Middle and West Salem High (each with nine nominations) topping the list; winners will be announced on Thursday, May 14 from 7-9 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center, and tickets cost $45 starting today. Salem Reporter
- ➤ Marcia Latta of McKay High School was honored as the Oregon Financial Empowerment Educator of the Year on April 7 (she started a tax clinic and leads the Invest in Girls club) to boost student financial literacy. The award recognized her dedication to teaching essential money management skills. Statesman Journal
- ➤ Chemeketa Community College celebrates Community College Month this April by showing how its programs build skills and strengthen local careers. The college will share student stories and program highlights to meet regional workforce needs. 1430 KYKN
- ➤ Salem Reporter is boosting education reporting by hiring a nationally recruited reporter — funded by community donations and Report for America — who will start in July to explain school spending and hold education leaders accountable. Salem Reporter
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ State climatologist Larry O’Neill warned that record-low snowpack from a mild winter and dry spring could lead to intense wildfire and drought risks this summer. Gov. Kotek declared drought emergencies in three eastern counties on March 31 — prompting extra state support for community safety measures. Salem Reporter
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Daddy Daughter Dance: A Night in New York
4-7 p.m. — The Withnell Family YMCA — $45+ — Enjoy a magical evening filled with dancing, crafts, and delicious food trucks.
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Salem Fashion Week Runway Show
2:15-9:30 p.m. — Salem Convention Center — Free admission — Experience local designers showcasing fashion in a vibrant community celebration.
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Finding Hope, Resilience, and Strength During Turbulent Times All-inclusive Retreat
This retreat will offer a restorative space to rest and rejuvenate in the healing waters as well as guide you on your journey to mindfulness and hopefulness. Find healing and hope through activities like guided meditations, exploration and discovery of strengths and resilience, movement and mobility, soothing sound baths, artistic endeavors, and more!
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Preschool Storytime
10:15-10:40 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for children ages 2½ to 6 and their grownups.
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Cultural and Tourism Promotion Advisory Board Monthly Meeting
6 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Engage in community discussions on cultural and tourism initiatives.
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A New Moon Ball: A Bridgerton Themed Ball
6-10 p.m. — Willamette Heritage Center — VIP dinner available — Step into the Regency era for an enchanting night of dancing and revelry inspired by Bridgerton.
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Spring Floral Paint & Sip Workshop
1-4 p.m. — Chemeketa Cellars Tasting Room — Not specified — Unwind while painting fresh spring florals in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
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Salem's Trading Card Showcase & Collectible Show
10 AM – 4 PM — Scottish Rite Center — Free admission — Dive into the world of Pokemon and sports cards with 75 vendor tables from across the Northwest.
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2026 Alt Ed Summit
8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. — Willamette Education Service District — Check website for registration cost — Connect with educators and administrators from alternative education programs across the state at this informative summit.
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North East Salem Community Association Meeting
7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your neighbors and discuss community improvement initiatives in an accessible setting.
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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Start with repetition, not perfection.
~ James Clear
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