Good morning Salem! We're back in your inbox this morning to keep you in the loop with what's happening in and around town. Grab a cup of coffee and read on. ☕️️
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In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: 2026 Open Studios and 7 more events.
Today's riddle: Why did the man leave his watch in the bank? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. How the Oregon State Fair brings farming to life for Oregonians (capitalpress.com) — Salem will again host the Oregon State Fair from Aug. 28 to Sept. 7 at the fairgrounds on 17th Street NE, with expanded agricultural exhibits and thousands of livestock entries. Alongside 4-H and FFA shows, visitors can enjoy new attractions like highland cattle and an "Electric Drill Team," plus concerts, carnival rides, and a daily America 250 Live show.
2. Gas prices in Eugene rise as national average goes back over four dollars (kval.com) — Salem drivers are paying more at the pump, with local gas prices climbing 4.8 cents to an average of $4.58 per gallon, similar to increases in Eugene and Portland. The national average has also topped $4 again, as analysts point to international conflicts and disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz and in Russia as key factors.
3. Gov. Kotek proclaims August as National Emergency Management Awareness Month in Oregon (ktvz.com) — From Salem, Gov. Tina Kotek has declared August 2026 National Emergency Management Awareness Month, spotlighting the professionals and agencies preparing Oregon communities for disasters. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management and its partners will use the month to promote preparedness resources, support counties and Tribes, and coordinate public-private efforts to strengthen resilience statewide.
4. 'I stand with you:' Messages from Salem city councilors to Wallace Marine Park residents (salemreporter.com) — Salem city councilors are sending messages of support and caution to Wallace Marine Park residents as the city prepares to end camping there despite limited shelter options. Campers and advocates question how promised dignity and flexibility square with cleanup schedules and threats of arrest when no adequate alternative housing is available.
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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: So he could save time! (Thank you Lorraine S. for sending it in!)
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