Salem-News.com Oregon articles

Speakers Gather to Discuss Without Evidence in Salem

The turnout was indicative of the interest in a transparent investigation, even now.

(SALEM, Ore.) - “Without Evidence,” a 1995 movie about the murder of Oregon’s Corrections Chief Michael Francke, was shown this week at Salem Cinema, drawing a large crowd.

The full-length film was created through the inspiration of Kevin Francke, brother of the slain corrections director. Proceeds raised by the film will be used to support the Inglewood Forest Festival in Salem, which takes place August 11th.

Oregon Medical Marijuana Updates for Grow Sites, Tracking and SB 1544

Please review and comment on the proposed rules before the deadline.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Notice of proposed permanent rulemaking:

These rules will modify which grow sites are required to use CTS, outline forms of an address to register a medical marijuana grow site, establish the number of immature plants that are below 24" at a registered grow site, and increase the number of patients that a grower may grow for from 4 to 8.

Oregon State Capitol State Park Fountain to Remain Off

Kids will have to do without the fountain fun for now.

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Wall of Water fountain bordering Court Street across from the main capitol entrance will remain off due to the ongoing drinking water advisory set by city and state officials.

The fountain usually operates between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the forecast temperature is above 80 degrees.

9 Corvallis-area Residents Charged with Perpetrating Credit Card Fraud Funding Marijuana Business

The cannabis industry does not have access to banking, which may have bearing on this case.

(EUGENE, Ore.) - Nine defendants residing in and around Corvallis, Oregon face conspiracy charges related to a credit card “bust-out” fraud scheme and an interstate marijuana distribution operation funded by the fraud.

A credit card “bust-out” is a fraud scheme that begins with perpetrators obtaining credit cards and accumulating large balances.

Final Defendant Sentenced for Armed Takeover of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

The Bundys and several dozen armed followers seized the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge near Burns, Oregon and prevented federal officials from performing their duties by force, threats, and intimidation.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The 41-day armed occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge began in January 2016.

Eleven defendants pleaded guilty to felony conspiracy to impede officers of the U.S. Four other defendants were convicted of felonies by a federal jury in a trial ending in March 2017.

Salem Drinking Water Advisory Continues for Two Weeks

Though water is "safe for most", drinking water filling stations are open.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Test results received this morning from water samples taken on Saturday, June 9, indicate the presence of cyanotoxins in the water distribution system is below EPA advisory levels for vulnerable populations.

As a precautionary measure, the City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory for at least two more weeks to ensure safe drinking water for our residents and water customers.

10th Annual Otter Rock and Roll is June 23rd

This youth surf contest is for ages 18 and under only; open to surfers of all skill levels.

(NEWPORT, Ore.) - In celebration of International Surfing Day, the Surfrider Foundation’s Newport, Siuslaw and Portland Chapters have announced they will be hosting the 10th annual Otter Rock n Roll Youth Surf and Beach Cleanup Challenge.

Observed globally, International Surfing Day celebrates the sport of surfing and helps raise awareness about issues facing our ocean, waves and beaches.

Murder of Michael Francke: Focus of Film and Fundraiser for Englewood Forest Festival

Many insiders believe the man convicted in the murder, Frank Gable, was a patsy.

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Englewood Forest Festival, a summer arts festival at Englewood Park in Salem, Oregon is presenting “Without Evidence”, a film about the murder that occurred near the park in January of 1989.

The location was in the neighborhood at the Dome Building – office of the Department of Corrections, 7 blocks away from the park, and the victim was Michael Francke, the Director of the Oregon Dept. of Corrections.

Oregon`s Capitol City Issues Another Toxic Water Advisory

As was true last week, the school district will not make bottled water available to kids in school ages 6-18.

(SALEM, Ore.) - The water "advisory" is back on for Salem and areas around Salem.

Results from water quality samples received Wednesday morning (June 6, 2018) indicate that cyanotoxins are present in the City of Salem’s water distribution system at levels that exceed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines for children and vulnerable populations.

Bend Firefighter Killed in Motorcycle Crash with Bear

Tragedy is a reminder of unforeseen risks on the road.

(WARM SPRINGS, Ore.) - 39-year old Rhett Larsen, an off-duty firefighter from Bend, was riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle eastbound when a large bear ran into his path on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation. He was unable to avoid the bear and struck the animal in the eastbound lane.

Larsen was thrown from his motorcycle and then was struck by a westbound Ford SUV pulling a utility trailer driven by 57-year old Margaret Sweo, from Oregon City. Sweo's vehicle traveled off the roadway and rolled onto its side.