Salem musicians, venue operators and sound engineers got a chance to tell a statewide nonprofit what they need to thrive.

MusicOregon held a listening session in Salem as part of a tour across seven Oregon cities, Jefferson Public Radio reported on Saturday, Sept. 5.

About 130 music professionals participated in sessions in Salem, Hood River, Pendleton, Bend, Tillamook, Eugene and Jacksonville, plus virtual meetings.

The message was consistent. Board President Tim Wilson said the most common concern cut across every stop.

"The biggest thing that was sort of global … was the extent to which people feel disconnected from other musicians and venues and studios and other music businesses in other parts of the state," Wilson told Jefferson Public Radio.

MusicOregon, co-founded in 2022 by Portland music entrepreneur Meara McLaughlin, provides independent musicians with grants, advocacy and professional support.

The nonprofit merged with MusicPortland in January, consolidating two organizations at a time when nonprofit arts funding has declined, Wilson said.

The organization is now weighing a statewide directory, regional gatherings and partnerships with tourism agencies to help musicians reach new audiences.

MusicOregon is still collecting input through a survey at musicoregon.org/survey.

Sybil's server celebrates four decades

Lorri Hibbard has spent 40 years serving breakfast at the same Salem restaurant.

Hibbard marked the milestone in August at Sybil's Omelettes Unlimited, the family-owned breakfast spot at 2373 State St. Colleagues and customers celebrated the occasion, according to the Statesman Journal, which first reported the story on Saturday, Sept. 5. She started in 1986.

The restaurant has deep roots in Salem's community life. On Nov. 24, 2025, Sybil's raised more than $4,500 during its annual Pay-It-Forward Day, with proceeds going to Marion Polk Food Share.

Upcoming

MusicOregon's statewide survey for musicians and music workers remains open at musicoregon.org/survey.