Friends of Two Bridges

The Friends of Two Bridges is a committee dedicated to the completion and maintenance of the soon-to-open Union Street Railroad Bridge and the projected Minto-Brown Bridge. Both will provide pedestrians and bicyclists new connections between three of Salem's fine parks.

The group has started a new blog: http://friends2bridges.blogspot.com. Check it often for information on the bridges' progression!

Powwow in Salem this month

Here's another great event for you to check out:




"Gathering of Oregon's First Nations."

Jan. 31 at Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem, beginning at 10 a.m., with the powwow grand entry at 1.

For more information, call (503) 393-3566, or email rptom60@hotmail.com.

Interesting event & exhibit

This exhibit highlights six stories of men who lived in the "peculiar paradise" called Oregon; a beautiful eden like place where the peculiar institution of slavery cast a shadow and yet the human spirit prevailed.
~ The Oregon Northwest Black Pioneers


On Jan. 30, be sure to attend "Stories from a Peculiar Paradise," 6 p.m. at Reed Opera House, Trinity Ballroom. Presented by Oregon Northwest Black Pioneers and Salem Multicultural Institute.

This is the kickoff event for an exhibit at the World Beat Gallery, running from January 30 through February 15. The Gallery is on the second floor of the Reed Opera House.

For more information, email Erin@salemmulticultural.org

Photos of Salem businesses

Mike Carrick passed along these historic Salem photos:

First is the well known Meier and Frank clock that has been in the news lately because it was up for sale. "Meet me under the clock" was a familiar phrase for Salem shoppers.

Second is an interior shot of Steusloff Brothers Butcher Shop. They sent this photo to customers with a "Merry Christmas" message. This card is dated December 23, 1909. I guess in those days you didn't have to "mail early."

Thanks for the photos, Mike!