Saturday, September 5, 2026

Salem Tribune.

Willamette U goes tuition-free & Ironman comes to town

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Weather

Today in Salem: overcast. (H 71°F / L 54°F)

Local Headlines

Willamette University announces tuition-free education for Oregon families

Willamette University announces tuition-free education for Oregon families

Big news for local families: Willamette University will offer free tuition to Oregon students whose families earn less than $80,000 annually. The policy makes one of Salem's anchor institutions more accessible to middle-income Valley residents.

Local Headlines

Ironman 70.3 brings athletes and spectators downtown this weekend

Salem's about to get a fitness boost as the Ironman 70.3 Oregon event rolls into town, bringing competitors and an influx of spectators. Expect downtown to be buzzing with athletic energy and visitor dollars.

Local Headlines

Grand Theatre ownership dispute surfaces over unpaid rent

The historic Salem Grand Theatre is at the center of a legal dispute, with building owners claiming former managers owe $100,000 in back rent. The situation highlights ongoing challenges for one of Salem's cultural landmarks.

Local Headlines

Mid-Willamette Valley health systems complete merger

After months of negotiations, local health systems have finalized their merger, reshaping healthcare delivery across the Mid-Willamette Valley. The consolidation aims to improve services for Salem-area residents.

Local Headlines

Your weekend lineup: Art Walk, State Fair, and Punx in the Park

Salem's serving up an eclectic weekend with First Friday Art Walk, ongoing Oregon State Fair festivities, and the punk rock energy of Punx in the Park. There's something for every taste around town.

Around Town

Fair Weather Friends

It's shaping up to be quite the weekend in Salem. While the Oregon State Fair continues its run with all the deep-fried delights and prize-winning livestock you can handle, downtown gets its cultural moment with Art Walk galleries throwing open their doors Friday evening. And if you're feeling more athletic than artistic, the Ironman 70.3 competitors will be powering through town—maybe their determination will inspire you to walk an extra lap around Riverfront Park. Just saying.

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