Hey Salem,

We have a FREE chance to connect coming up on Tuesday at Hanal Kiin in Keizer.

This will be a chance for you to get to know the new entrepreneur, and he will even have a few appetizers out for the crowd to enjoy. First come first served!

We will be there from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM.

Register Here.

Salem's reported crime numbers are heading in the right direction.

But many people in the city, or at least my comments, are skeptical about the true story around the data.

The 2025 Salem Police Crime Report showed a 17.3% drop in overall reported crime and the first significant decline in violent crime in over a decade. Reported property crime decreased by 16.7%, and fatal crashes were cut in half following proactive traffic enforcement efforts.

Even with improving data, public perception of safety, particularly in places like parking structures, doesn't always keep pace with the numbers. So the City of Salem is trying something new. On February 2nd, they launched a two-month pilot program at the Pringle Parkade featuring a three-foot-tall autonomous security robot named Dax.

Dax was developed by Daxbot, based in Philomath, Oregon. Shoppers at Salem Center Mall may have already spotted the units patrolling corridors there. Now the technology is expanding into city infrastructure.

Mason Reeves of the Daxbot team explained the robot's primary purpose during a recent interview for our podcast.

"Dax is first and foremost a deterrent," Reeves said. "It provides a physical presence that says, 'Somebody cares about this area, and you're safe here.'"

Unlike the militaristic security robots that might come to mind, Dax was built to be friendly. Standing three feet tall, it features digital eyes that shift between expressions, happy, curious, even "disappointed." If someone makes a heart shape with their hands, Dax responds with heart-shaped eyes.

On the privacy front, Reeves noted that the robots are not intended as surveillance tools. The system operates on a five-minute recording loop, similar to a dashcam. If no incident occurs, the footage isn't saved.

"There's no need to save personal information," Reeves said. "We just want to see if someone was hurt or if an incident occurred so we have evidence for authorities."

The robots are semi-autonomous. They navigate obstacles and detect people independently but are monitored around the clock by human operators at a command center in Philomath. Those operators can communicate with the public through the robot or alert the Salem Police Department if a serious situation arises.

Daxbot's approach centers on using robotics for tasks described as "dirty, dull, or dangerous." Overnight patrols in a parking garage fit that description. Rather than placing a human guard in a potentially vulnerable position, the robot maintains a visible presence while a person monitors remotely.

Beyond security, Daxbot is also using the technology for sidewalk assessments across Salem, identifying ADA compliance issues such as steep slopes and pavement cracks. That data is shared with the city to support infrastructure accessibility improvements.

Concerns about automation replacing human workers are common with this type of technology. Reeves addressed that directly.

"We'll always need people involved with the robot," he said. "We're just changing what those people need to do. We want to automate the miserable parts of a job so humans can focus on the human element."

According to Reeves, Daxbot's expansion has created local jobs in manufacturing, software engineering, and 24/7 robot operations.

The two-month pilot at Pringle Parkade will serve as a test case for whether these robots become a permanent part of Salem's public safety strategy. As the city continues to monitor crime trends into 2026, the results of this program could shape the next steps in how Salem approaches security in public spaces.

What do you think Salem?

Mark your calendars. The Englewood Forest Festival returns to Englewood Park on Saturday, August 8 from 10:00AM to 4:00PM for a free, family friendly celebration of art, nature, and community. This year is extra special as the park is celebrating its 100th anniversary!

Artists, musicians, authors, food trucks, nonprofits, and community organizations can apply starting February 15. Organizers encourage early applications, especially from Mid-Willamette Valley creatives, as spots fill quickly. A limited number of scholarships are available.

This year’s festival poster will feature wildlife artist Bekah Zeimetz, highlighting the beauty of the natural world that inspires this beloved Northeast Salem tradition.

Applications will be available online through the festival website.

Get ready for a night full of energy and historical hits! The famous Norteño band from Mexico, most famous for the cultural phenomenon La Chona, headlines the State Fairgrounds. Three opening acts ensures the party will last all night!

Immerse yourself in Irish culture by learning to Céilí. Bust a move, break a sweat, and meet new friends. All are welcome!

For beginners, lessons start at 7:00PM. For those already experienced in Céilí, the dance begins at 8:00PM. 

Come one, come all, and dance the night away.

Ladies! Grab your besties and pull up to Mykie’s for Galentine’s Day! Enjoy drink specials all day, heart-shaped pizza, and a Girl Dinner Special featuring a martini, Caesar salad, and fries for just $11.

Come dressed to impress! All friend groups are welcome, but one duo will take home the title of Cutest Besties. A DJ hits the decks at 10PM to keep the party going all night.

Never want to forget the night? A tattoo artist will be on site from 4-10PM 

You may know him from The Last of Us, Parks and Recreation, or Fargo. Beyond the screen, he is also the author of six New York Times bestselling books. 

Now, Offerman is in Salem with songs and stories inspired by his latest book Little Woodchucks: Offerman Woodshop’s Guide to Tools and Tomfoolery. WARNING: You may leave this show with an uncontrollable urge to start making things with your own hands. 

If you are interested, do not wait to get your tickets! The earlier show has already sold out.  

Love thrifting, garage sales, estate finds, and vintage hunting? You will not want to miss Oregon’s largest open-air garage and vintage sale. With two days of shopping, you are bound to strike vintage gold. 

Want first dibs on the best finds? Early bird passes are available for $15 and include exclusive access from 8:00AM-9:00AM on both Saturday and Sunday. 

Arriving later? Weekend passes are $10, or Sunday-only admission is $5. 

Bring the kids! Ages 17 and under are FREE. Parking is $10. 

Making friends as an adult is hard. The Salem Public Library is here to help with their friendship speed-dating event. Meet people with shared interests through a fun, interactive format. 

Who knows? You might leave with a new bestie, pickleball rival, trivia teammate, hiking buddy, or someone to finally split a pizza with. Anything is possible. 

Be ready to stretch those social muscles and make new friends! Snacks will be provided.

Salem Horror Club presents your spooky Friday the 13th date night for Valentine's weekend. From bloody burlesque, to clowns and comedy, spend a sexy, horrific evening at the BAD Space.

Grab a glass, soak in the gorgeous vineyard views, and enjoy an afternoon of feel-good music with that special someone. Eric John Kaiser brings lively, French-inspired sound for a set that is charming, upbeat, and fun. 

Celebrate love in all its forms with a hands on clay experience that is equal parts creative and social. In this two hour Mud and Mingle workshop, participants will design and craft a decorative ceramic wall plaque inspired by Valentine’s Day, whether that means romantic love, deep friendship, self love, or something delightfully weird and uniquely you. The session explores texture, imagery, and personal symbolism in a relaxed setting that encourages conversation and connection. No experience is needed, just a willingness to get your hands a little messy and let your creativity shape something meaningful.

In the mood for love, laughter, and chaos? This is the perfect night for you! With a blend of improv, stand-up comedy, and audience inclusion with interactive games, this will sure to be a gas for couples, situationships, and best friends alike. Singles are welcome too! 

🚢Dinner on the Willamette Queen! • Call for reservations 503-371-1103 • Will sell out
👑 Drag Brunch @Historic Grand Theatre • 12:00PM
💖 Valentine's Special @West Hills Vineyards • 4:00PM — 8:00PM • RSVP required
🍸 Southside Speakeasy @Southside Speakeasy • 5:00PM — 9:00PM
🐘 The Pink Elephant Valentine's Dinner • 6:00PM — 10:00PM • Blues rock band at 8:00PM
🍷 Stomp Vineyards Dinner + Wine Pairing • 6:00PM

Interested in connecting with our audience and supporting the growth of this publication? Simply reply to this email and we can help you get started.

Thanks for keeping up with Salem this week!

Spotted something interesting in town? Drop us a note at [email protected] We love hearing from you.

See you next Thursday,

Ernie