Category Community

5 things to do in Salem this week: Doggie Dash, First Friday Art Walk, extended Bush House Museum tour
Events in Salem this week include the Oregon Humane Society’s Doggie Dash fundraiser, the First Friday Art Walk through downtown and a special 90-minute tour of Bush House Museum.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

One year later, emotional wounds from UGM mass stabbing continue to heal
It has been one year since 12 people were injured in a mass stabbing at Salem’s Union Gospel Mission. After changes to security and city policy, the emotional toll remains the biggest challenge for shelter staff and guests.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

CLASS OF 2026: McNary graduate finds passion for service by leading
A McNary High School graduating senior started her freshman year wanting to help more than just her peers and make a difference in the bigger Keizer community. Since then, Allyssa Christensen has organized blood drives, brought veterans to McNary classes and been a symbol of empathy and generosity.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

CLASS OF 2026: Sprague’s student body president raises the bar for leadership
Isabella Morrow, a senior graduating from Sprague High School, has spent her senior year setting a new standard for the role of student body president, according to her teacher Chris Trammell. She plans to bring her love for service and teaching with her when she starts college.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

CLASS OF 2026: McKay grad led school bands, choirs with quiet wisdom
Isaac Reynolds, a graduating senior, is a member of the top bands and choirs at McKay High School, where he holds multiple leadership positions. He’s known for his steady wisdom and ability to bring out the best in his fellow performers.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

CLASS OF 2026: Fueled by a passion for dance, North Salem grad will become Pentacle’s youngest choreographer
A graduating North Salem High School senior is on track to become Pentacle Theatre's youngest-ever choreographer following a successful stint in her school's theatre department.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

Student-run West Salem Jazz Combo takes home first in state contest
The West Salem Jazz Combo, a small band with six student players, won first in state earlier this month after the program’s revival. Their winning set included two original pieces written by junior saxophonist Jack Parr.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

5 things to do in Salem this week: Gaiety Hollow open garden, Salem Mystic Fair, space-themed concert
Events in Salem this week include the Salem Mystic Fair at the Reed Opera House, an open garden event at the historic Gaiety Hollow home and a space-themed Salem Symphonic Winds concert featuring works from Star Wars and Star Trek.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

UPDATE: West Salem, McNary host first round of softball playoffs on Memorial Day
Monday is no holiday for local ball teams as state playoffs start. The high school games are scheduled for the afternoon as the weather forecast includes showers.

