Good morning, Salem.

Mt. Angel Oktoberfest is set to celebrate its 60th festival as a four-day event—featuring Bavarian entertainment, food and drink with local vendors.

Downtown Salem's Elsinore Theatre unveiled a new blade sign on Sept.

12 that was designed to mirror its 1928 original—Salem Sign Co. installed the sign as community members gathered to watch.

The Salem Art Fair and Festival began on Friday at Bush's Pasture Park and continues today until Sunday with art booths, live music, dance and local food.

The event features a kids' parade and Irish jig lessons offered by local performers — adding festive energy to the celebration.

On Sept 11, about 10 gallons of untreated sewage spilled into Croisan Creek near 888 Coburn St. S in Salem due to roots clogging a sewer manhole — utility crews took water samples and posted warnings — and residents were advised to avoid contact until tests confirm the water is safe.

The Salem Fire Department took over medic calls to boost its revenue while Falck, a private ambulance service, filed a legal motion in Marion County Circuit Court claiming the city is double dipping by seeking $7 million for calls it had already billed.

Falck argues the city used its own ambulances even when its service was available — a move that contradicts the original agreement.

Gov. Tina Kotek said Thursday that she is working with five state agencies—seeking ways to ease the vaccine rollout after new FDA restrictions led to prescription delays, which have caused appointment cancellations across pharmacies.

Her spokesperson said the governor’s staff is developing solutions to prevent further disruption as the COVID vaccine advisory panel meets next week.

Attorney General Dan Rayfield criticized a Marion County lawsuit over Oregon’s sanctuary law during his Friday speech at Salem City Club and defended his record of filing legal cases that brought relief to the state.

He also detailed plans to boost consumer protection by doubling his team to 20 and warned against political map manipulation—calling for strong oversight of fair practices.

Oregon recriminalized drugs on Sept.

1 and counties set up deflection programs that refer people to treatment instead of jail—state data show 1,909 people were referred with only 277 completing treatment. County leaders say the impact is unclear and more work is needed to engage those referred.

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.

Bringing Sea Otters Back to Oregon

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Venti's Cafe + Beer Vault — Free entry — Discover the importance of sea otters and the ecosystem from a passionate marine biologist.

IN A LANDSCAPE: Riverfront Park

4-10 p.m. — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Experience classical music amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the American West.

Art, Books, and Music Evening

5-7 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — A creative showcase for authors and artists to connect and display their talents.

Beginner ESL Class

3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Participate in a multilingual beginner-level English class with supportive instruction.

Yoga + Coffee at Prismatic

12-1 p.m. — Prismatic Coffee Company — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a midday yoga flow followed by coffee in a sustainable community.

Timeless Footprints with Annette Jensen

2-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Explore how to make a lasting impact on the world around you with an inspiring talk from Annette Jensen.

Youth Coordinated Entry Program Visit

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Learn about housing assistance and resources for youth ages 14-24 from local community organizations.

October Salem Stoic Society Meeting

5:00 – 6:30 PM — IKE Box Café — Free entry — Explore practical Stoicism to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience with like-minded individuals.

Michael Carbonaro Live Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — All ages welcome — Experience the magic and comedy of Michael Carbonaro known for his hidden camera magic series.