Saturday, August 8, 2026

Salem Tribune.

Merger approved, beetle alert, and a west Salem boom

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Weather

Today in Salem: overcast. (H 91°F / L 57°F)

Local Headlines

Salem Health-Santiam Hospital Merger Gets Green Light

Salem Health-Santiam Hospital Merger Gets Green Light

The Oregon Department of Justice has approved the merger between Salem Health and Santiam Hospital. Lawmakers, doctors, and local businesses showed strong support during hearings, marking a significant expansion for our regional healthcare system.

Local Headlines

Tree-Killing Beetle Reaches Salem for First Time

The notorious emerald ash borer has been confirmed in Salem and Silverton, threatening thousands of local ash trees. This invasive pest has already devastated tree populations across the country, and officials are now tracking its local spread.

Local Headlines

West Salem Subdivision Could Bring Nearly 1,000 Homes

A proposed development in west Salem could add close to 1,000 housing units to our growing city. The large-scale project comes as a U.S. Chamber report suggests the Salem metro could support adding 1,610 homes annually.

Local Headlines

Live Music: Eric John Kaiser at West Hills Vineyards

Catch a solo performance by Eric John Kaiser at West Hills Vineyards this weekend. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy local wine and live tunes in the valley.

Local Headlines

Meet the Archaeologist Protecting Salem's Buried Past

Ever wonder what lies beneath our city streets? Salem's official archaeologist works to preserve hidden historical treasures as development continues across town.

Around Town

Around Town

The air is finally clearing after wildfire smoke blanketed the Willamette Valley earlier this week, though a heat advisory remains through Thursday night. If you're looking for local flavor, Cozzie's NY Deli on Fairview Industrial Drive continues serving up sandwiches Monday through Friday. And for history buffs, Oregon Black Pioneer Tours are making stops in Salem, highlighting stories often overlooked in our region's past.

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