Salem man sentenced to federal prison for fentanyl trafficking; police seized 50 pounds of drugs

Leonel Covarrubias Hernandez, 48 was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison Monday after pleading guilty to possessing and intending to distribute fentanyl in November. Police arrested Covarrubias in 2022 after seizing counterfeit pills that contained fentanyl.
New program will help people recover from opioid withdrawal, connect with treatment

Starting March 10, people in opioid withdrawal will have easier access to medication that treats their symptoms, which include physical pain, nausea and emotional distress. The aim is to help people who have just overdosed break the cycle of using again and make treatment easier.
Salem seeks federal money for sidewalk improvements, new street crossings

The Salem City Council recently approved an application seeking federal money for several transportation projects starting in 2027. Here's what city officials hope to build.
Second sewer overflow of week spills almost 900 gallons into Glenn Creek

A sewer blockage Wednesday night led to almost 900 gallons of raw sewage spilling into Glenn Creek in West Salem. This is Salem's third sewage spill in less than three weeks.
Community health improvement effort will focus on housing, access, mental health and substance use

A recent health assessment found that people in Marion and Polk counties are struggling to access quality health care. The findings will guide a five-year plan for improving community health.
Sewer blockage causes over 2,000 gallons of raw sewage to spill into Waln Creek

Over 2,000 gallons of raw sewage spilled into Waln Creek Sunday afternoon after a sewer blockage led to an overflow. This is Salem’s third sewer spill in two months.
Kroc Center celebrates 15 years while spotlighting new youth program

The Kroc Center celebrated its 15 year anniversary at a Friday lunch with dozens of local government and organization leaders. The event also recognized one of the center’s newer efforts to reconnect youth with education and employment opportunities.
PROFILES IN RECOVERY: For self-proclaimed outlaw, recovery from addiction is a coming of age journey

Billy Sly grew up surrounded by drugs and alcohol, and started using to protect his younger siblings. After years in prison, he decided he was ready for another path.
A white oak’s legacy continues in Gaiety Hill
A small group of people gathered Friday, Feb. 14 to plant a new oak tree in front of the historic Smith-Fry house in the Gaiety Hill neighborhood in Salem. The group included the house’s current owner, a Willamette University professor and descendants of Joseph Smith, who built the Smith-Fry house.
PROFILES IN RECOVERY: Local musician carries music and faith in his sobriety

Mark Parrish is a local musician who started playing in bands at a young age along the West Coast, where he first started using heroin and meth. Five years sober, Parrish continues to play rock and blues music as he helps others through early recovery.


