Saturday, September 12, 2026
Weather
Today in Salem: rain. (H 69°F / L 55°F)
Local Headlines
Thousands of Migrating Birds Put on a Show Downtown
Nature lovers got quite the spectacle as massive flocks of migrating birds created a swirling tornado effect around a church chimney in downtown Salem. The seasonal phenomenon drew crowds and cameras as thousands of birds descended on the historic structure during their migration.
Local Headlines
Salem Airport Eyes Return of Commercial Flights
With backing from SkyWest Airlines, Salem is applying for federal funding to bring commercial air service back to the city. The move could restore direct flight connections that residents have been missing for years.
Local Headlines
Marion County Employees Vote to Strike
Marion County workers have authorized a strike as labor negotiations reach a critical point. The vote sets the stage for potential work stoppages that could affect county services across the region.
Local Headlines
Chemeketa Debuts New Resource Hub for Students
The Salem-area community college has opened a fresh resource center designed to help students navigate academic life and access support services all in one convenient location.
Local Headlines
St. Joseph's Catholic Church Rededicated After Renovation
Salem's oldest Catholic church celebrated its rededication following extensive renovations completed years after a devastating fire. The restored building has been described as "awe-inspiring" by parishioners and community members.
Around Town
Around Town
September is shaping up to be quite the month in Salem. While students celebrated the first day back at Salem-Keizer schools with what teachers called "the best day of the year," nature provided its own welcome-back show as thousands of migrating birds created a mesmerizing tornado around a downtown church chimney. Meanwhile, the newly renovated St. Joseph's Catholic Church has reopened its doors with an awe-inspiring rededication ceremony, and Chemeketa Community College is helping students get connected with a brand-new resource hub on campus.
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