Morning Salem! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Standup Comedy at The Cellar (FREE) and 13 more events.
And lastly, we have a post from a neighbor, Paul L.!
Today's riddle: Why are crows so alert and curious? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Salem Victim Identified, Man Held Without Bail In Cabot Street Killing (patch.com) — Authorities have identified both the victim and suspect in a homicide at a Cabot Street home in Salem, with 50-year-old Paul Morey charged in the death of 42-year-old Patricia Donaldson. Morey was arrested in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and is being held without bail there on a fugitive charge, with a Salem District Court murder arraignment expected after New Hampshire proceedings conclude.
2. Salem Earns 'Welcoming America' Designation For Immigrant Inclusion (patch.com) — Salem has been officially recognized as a 3-star Certified Welcoming Community, highlighting city policies that support immigrant inclusion and belonging. Local departments and partners like the House of the Seven Gables and community coalitions contributed to the designation, which city leaders are tying to Salem's 400th anniversary and a renewed commitment to being a welcoming place for new residents.
3. Salem Schools Tout Gains In Battle Against Chronic Absenteeism (patch.com) — Salem Public Schools have sharply reduced chronic absenteeism, dropping from about a third of students in 2022–23 to under one-fifth in 2025–26, now beating the state average. District leaders credit closer family support and school engagement, with most Salem schools showing big gains and vulnerable student groups, including multilingual learners and economically disadvantaged students, seeing especially strong improvement.
4. $1 Million State Grant Salvages Salem Skipper Rideshare Service (patch.com) — Salem's Skipper rideshare service will keep running past Sept. 30 thanks to a new $1 million state grant, buying time while city leaders seek a permanent funding plan. Rides will remain heavily subsidized for residents, though officials warn the extension is limited and a new operating contract and long-term funding solution are still being worked out.
5. Salem Massachusetts Tourism Vibe Captured in September 2026 Video (news-usa.today) — Recent video from September 7 spotlights Salem's late-night, witch-trial-infused streetscape and the eerie charm that draws visitors as fall approaches. The piece underscores how the city's shift from maritime port to dark-tourism hub now underpins many local shops, museums, and hotels, even as residents manage the strain of heavy autumn crowds.
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Ok Salem! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: They start each day with a cup of caw-fee. (Thank you Curt K. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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