Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of June.
Good morning, Salem.
Marion Polk Food Share announced plans to invest $11 million in renovations at the former manufacturing facility (previously used by Don Pancho Mexican Foods) to create its future food share hub.
The project will improve local food access.
On Sunday, Jun. 21, Salem will host Make Music Day — honoring late co-founder Mark Green — at 50 local venues.
Organizers led by his wife Karen Green plan free shows from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with about 220 bands across the city.
Volunteers and archaeologists continue to uncover remains of the lost three-story Indian Manual Labor Training School on the Willamette University campus and will host an open house on Saturday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the dig site east of Smullin Hall.
Lawmakers voted against three nominees to the Quality Education Commission, raising concerns about the funding model; they hinted at major reform in the 2027 session to better support schools amid poor outcomes.
Debate continues over the outdated system.
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Director Sejal Hathi has hired Sean Murphy as the new superintendent of Oregon State Hospital after a national search.
Murphy, who brings three decades of leadership experience, will start Monday, July 13 at the Salem campus.
With summer set to begin on June 21, the Oregon Health Authority is urging residents to take precautions against heat, wildfire smoke and water hazards (advice covers safe swimming practices, using air conditioning, and staying hydrated).
Oregon Housing and Community Services selected five factory-built housing projects to support future construction of 117 affordable homes using up to $25 million from LIFT funds.
AGE+ and Blazer Modular Construction plan to build 40 accessible units for older adults in Phoenix — replacing housing lost in the Almeda Fire.
The Gut Car Show 2026
10 a.m.–8 p.m. — S.C.A. Detailing — Free entry — Enjoy a day filled with classic cars, food carts, vendors, and live music.
Pizza Party in Salem
12-2 p.m. — Pietro's Pizza Salem — RSVP required — Enjoy great food and build community connections at this casual pizza gathering.
Durango Fest with Montez De Durango and Patrulla 81
7 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of vibrant regional music with top acts at the exciting Durango Fest.
2026 World Beat Festival
9:45 a.m. — Riverfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate Pacific Islander cultures with music, dance, and food from over 60 nations.
Barry's Book Club with Salem Public Library
6:35 PM — Chemeketa Baseball Field — Ticket purchase required — Celebrate reading with family-friendly activities and special programming throughout the game.
Marion County Fair
Jul 9-12 — Marion County Fair — General admission: $6, Children under 6: free — Celebrate community spirit with live music, rides, and great food.
Oregon Parent-Child Chapman Tournament
All day — Salem Golf Club — Entry fee from $99 — Compete in a fun 18-hole Chapman stroke play with family teams.
Mean Girls the Musical
6-8:30 p.m. — Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater — Tickets required — Experience an unforgettable night under the stars with sharp wit and vibrant choreography in this Broadway musical adaptation of a beloved film.
Santiam Canyon Stampede PRCA Rodeo
7-10 p.m. — Sublimity Harvest Festival — Ticket required — Celebrate Military Night with rodeo action, mutton busting, donkey races, and live music.
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