Daily
Salem
Friday, May 8th, 2026
Good morning, Salem. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Willamette Heritage Center will host an eight-week live music series called Music at the Mill from June 2 through Sept. 8, featuring bands like Dave’s Killer Band, Phoenix, and the Feel Good YaYas. Tickets cost $10 online or $15 at the door (kids under 12 enter free). Salem Reporter
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A celebration of life for Enchanted Forest creator Roger Tofte is scheduled for May 12 at The Pavilion on the Oregon State Fairgrounds. His family invites the public to view never-before-seen footage and share printed photos and written memories as they honor his legacy. Statesman Journal
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Salem-Keizer Public Schools may cut West Salem High School’s fire science pathway next school year due to low enrollment and tight budgets, which could leave students unable to finish their firefighting certification. Families and local fire leaders are organizing support ahead of an upcoming school board meeting. Salem Business Journal
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon urged state regulators on Monday, Apr. 27 to block the merger between Salem Health and Santiam Hospital & Clinics because it would diminish competition and raise patient costs (affecting 20,000 insured residents). State officials will decide by mid-May. Salem Reporter
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ FT LLC, owner of The Pit on Liberty and Chemeketa, plans to build a surface parking lot to serve its adjacent building. The Pit was created nearly a decade ago when a former bank was demolished and its 14-foot basement excavated, and it remains a noted fixture downtown. Statesman Journal
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Raw Blendz offers a chance to win two tickets for the Belgium vs. Egypt World Cup match on June 15 at Seattle Stadium — enter by making a purchase at Salem, South Salem, or Silverton by 7 p.m. June 1; the winner is announced on June 2 at 7 p.m. Salem Business Journal
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Joy in the Journey Resource Fair
10 AM - 5 PM — Salem's Riverfront Carousel — Free entry — Celebrate Children's Mental Health Acceptance with resources, activities, and free carousel rides.
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Mother's Day Brunch
11 AM - 2 PM — The Farm On Golden Hill — Reservations required — Celebrate Mom with a delightful brunch and bubbles in a beautiful setting.
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Sonic Journey Sound Meditation
7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting — $20-40 sliding scale — Experience profound relaxation and connection through immersive sound meditation with gongs and singing bowls.
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10th Annual Run 2 Remember
9:25 – 11:00 AM — Riverfront City Park — Open to all ages — Engage in a memorable community run/walk event to honor and remember.
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North East Salem Community Association Meeting
7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Accessible entry — Engage with your neighbors to strengthen community ties and voice local concerns.
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Paint N' Pints at Willamette Valley Smokehouse
6-8 p.m. — Willamette Valley Smokehouse — Food and beverages available for purchase — Unleash your creativity during a fun painting class with delicious food and brews.
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Infant/Toddler Storytime
11:00-11:20 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free — Delight in stories, songs, and rhymes perfect for little ones up to 2 ½ years old.
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4th Annual Autism Walk
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Celebrate and support Autistic individuals at this family-friendly event in Salem.
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Drop-in Craft at West Salem Branch
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Families enjoy a creative evening crafting with provided materials and their imagination.
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Marshall Tucker Band Concert
7-9 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic Southern rock with the iconic Marshall Tucker Band.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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