Friday, June 20th, 2025

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Good morning, Salem. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of June.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Jose Soto-Araujo, 54, an adult in custody, was found unresponsive in his cell at the Marion County Jail on June 19 just after 3:37 p.m.—he was pronounced dead and the Oregon State Police will investigate at the request of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. 1430 KYKN
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Salem will hold its 10th annual Make Music Day on June 21 with nearly 300 free performances at 68 venues arranged by local organizers including Mark and Karen Green. Organizers have expanded the celebration to cover West Salem and prepared indoor backup plans for rain — a fresh twist to a decade-long tradition. Salem Reporter
- ➤ A crowd gathered on Southeast Cottage Street in downtown Salem for a Juneteenth block party on Thursday, June 19 to celebrate Black joy with music, dance & prayer. Pastor Ronnie Brooks led the prayer as local vendors & community groups offered food & activities to honor the day freedom was recognized. Salem Reporter
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Salem bird expert Harry Fuller explained that the USFWS planned to kill up to 450,000 barred owls to protect endangered spotted owls but a lawsuit halted the extermination that was set to begin this spring—House members in a bipartisan coalition urged the agency to cancel the costly plan as federal court briefings continued until year’s end. Salem Reporter
- ➤ Salem crews will soon start injecting city-owned ash trees with an insecticide to protect them from the emerald ash borer, and nearby residents will receive door notices (treatments occur every two years). City officials said trained staff are now identifying at-risk trees in places like Minto-Brown Island Park to help prevent serious damage. Statesman Journal
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On June 18, a controversial bill to restore liability waivers for adult recreational participants narrowly passed a Senate committee, protecting businesses like Timberline Lodge and Mount Hood Meadows from rising insurance costs. The bill now heads to the Senate floor—where lawmakers will debate its impact on safety and the future of outdoor recreation in Oregon. Statesman Journal
- ➤ Salem city councilors will discuss plans on Monday to add police patrols and pair medical responders with mental health specialists, following calls from downtown business owners about safety and homelessness. The council report outlines immediate measures such as extra overtime and a pilot team pairing EMS with mental health experts—along with long-term proposals like restoring the downtown bike team—to boost public safety. Salem Reporter
SHOP NEWS
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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Salem.
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Tube Bending & Iso Drawing Workshop
2-6 p.m. — Local 290 Training CENTER SALEM — Free for Local 290 Members, $35 for UA Travelers — Learn the fundamental math and techniques for bending tubing in this hands-on workshop.
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Yarn and Thread Handwork Studio
12:30-2:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Craft your own stylish accessories like stocking caps, scarves, or mittens with guidance from experienced students.
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2025 Sumpter Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale
June 27-30 — Sumpter School City Park — Free entry — Discover amazing deals and hidden treasures at this popular neighborhood-wide garage sale in SE Salem.
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Free Foot Check Day
10 AM – 4 PM — The Good Feet Store — Free entry — Get your feet evaluated by a healthcare professional to enhance your overall comfort.
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Letter Writing Social
2-4 p.m. — IKE Box Café — Bring your own supplies — A creative monthly gathering for letter writing and mail art enthusiasts.
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Beginning/Intermediate Woodcarving Class
6:45-8:45 p.m. — Center 50+ — $20 for four classes — Explore your creativity through woodcarving while working on personal or guided projects.
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Lavender Wreath Making Class
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Arrowhead Lavender Farm & Co. — Costs vary — Create a beautiful lavender wreath while enjoying a fun and relaxing atmosphere.
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4th of July Spectacular
3-11 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free admission — Celebrate Independence Day with food, rides, music, and a spectacular fireworks display.
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Marion County Fair
Noon-10 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Adults: $9, Kids 5 and under FREE — Celebrate summer with thrilling rides, tasty food, and live music at the Marion County Fair.
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Breakthrough Basketball Camp: Ball Handling and Scoring Skills
N/A — July 11-13 — NPJ Sports Complex — $97 fee for observing coaches — Improve your basketball skills with high-intensity drills and expert coaching.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.
~ Marie Curie
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