Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 29th of August.
Good morning, Salem.
💼 Business
United Food — Commercial Workers Local 555 launched a boycott campaign with six billboards around Salem urging customers not to shop at Roth’s Fresh Markets as contract negotiations continue over low wages.
Union spokesman Miles Eshaia said employees are working under temporary terms while the union claims Roth’s pays less than local competitors.
Salem's vegan chocolate company Chomp! halted production because a 300% rise in cocoa bean prices forced owner Ben Bailey to close the factory after four and a half years.
He will relaunch as —Chunk! Chocolate— in September and focus on a —build-a-bar— division while seeking a co-manufacturer.
🎭 Culture
Punx in the Park returns to Riverfront Park on Sunday, Aug.
31st to offer youth and adults free food, clothes, haircuts and housing services — organized by a local nonprofit. Local youth voted on the music lineup, which includes headliner Bazooka Sharkz and four other bands, and free ride access is available through Cherriots’ UMO app — with the event starting at 11 a.m.
📰 Economy
Most homes in Detroit and Gates were rebuilt after the 2020 wildfires, but few businesses have returned because high costs for sewer systems and labor have slowed recovery.
Local officials say Detroit’s business district remains nearly empty—only a grocery and a lodge operate—while Gates may need at least five more years to see new shops reopen.
🏛️ Government
A federal appeals court upheld Oregon's 2018 law that requires drug makers to explain why they raise prices on expensive prescription drugs.
The ruling lets the state resume its plan to collect clear price data for consumers—giving families a better look at rising costs.
City of Salem invites community members to apply for four seats on the Livability Levy Oversight Committee—one at-large seat and one seat each for Center 50 years and older, Parks and Recreation, and the Salem Public Library.
Applicants must submit forms by Sept. 26 so the committee can review the levy funds from May and report annually to City Council.
Lawmakers began a special session today to discuss Gov. Tina Kotek’s transportation funding bill, which will raise gas taxes, fees and a road usage charge to support roads, cities and transit.
The Senate met at 9 a.m. while the House gathered at 11 a.m. in the Senate chamber due to construction — the bill is estimated to generate $5.7 billion over the next 10 years.
Salem is moving forward with plans to form a Hispanic Advisory Commission after a city committee voted unanimously on the proposal—local leader Jonathan Castro Monroy pushed the effort to give Hispanic residents a stronger voice in local government.
The commission will hold listening sessions and sponsor community events once it is reviewed by the City Council.
🎉 Salem Events
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Dylan Scott Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Cost TBD — Experience the powerful vocals and heartfelt songs of Curb Records artist Dylan Scott.
Banda Los Sebastianes Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free entry — Experience the lively sounds of Banda Los Sebastianes at the Columbia Bank Concert Series during the Oregon State Fair.
The Beach Boys Concert
4-9:30 p.m. — The Pavilion — Cost info not available — Experience over six decades of musical brilliance from The Beach Boys.
Tropical Treasures: Paper Art Exhibition by Eileen Downes
5-8 p.m. — Stefani Art Gallery — Free entry — Explore vibrant collages that transform torn paper into tropical dreams and hidden stories.
Boot Scoot and Brew Music Festival
11 a.m.-10 p.m. — Salem Riverfront Park Amphitheater — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy a full day of music featuring the Catnip Brothers and more.
Wine & Yoga Experience
6-8 p.m. — Cubanisimo Vineyards — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a relaxing yoga class with mountain views followed by a beverage.
Yoga + Libations at Lively Station
6-7 p.m. — Lively Station — $5-$10 suggested donation — Enjoy a relaxing outdoor yoga session followed by dinner and drinks in a vibrant setting.
Pinot & Pizza at Hudak House
4-8 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Savor custom pizzas and Pinot while enjoying live music in a scenic setting.
Salem Saturday Market
9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate 27 years of local vendors showcasing handmade and homegrown treasures from the Mid-Willamette Valley.
SPCC Annual Luncheon 2025
12-2 p.m. — Broadway Commons — Free lunch — Enjoy insights from Ben Olson on thriving in relationships with practical tools for connection.
🏠 Salem Real Estate
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💼 Salem Job Board
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📣 Salem Announcements
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