NEWSMAKERS at NOON
Newsmakers at Noon is a live, locally focused talk show on KYKN that digs into the stories shaping Salem, Oregon, and the nation—with context, accountability, and straight talk. Hosted by Denise and Hunter, the show blends local government, state and national politics, media analysis, and community issues, featuring guests who bring insight beyond the headlines. From city council decisions to national policy debates and global developments, the focus is on helping listeners think critically and stay informed. Grounded in the belief that local radio and local businesses matter, Newsmakers at Noon delivers thoughtful conversation without the spin.
Newsmakers At Noon 5/5/26
Community Impact, Election Questions & Staying Engaged – Newsmakers At Noon 5/4/26
🎙️ Guest: TJ Sullivan from Hagan Hamilton Insurance joined us for this month’s Community Champions spotlight—featuring Sewell Sweets and the ongoing efforts to strengthen Salem through local business and community connection. We also discussed public safety improvements and the city manager’s efforts to engage residents and revitalize downtown Salem, highlighting the importance of collaboration in […]
Redistricting, Voter Rolls & Challenging the Narrative – Newsmakers At Noon 4/30/26
🎙️ Jeff Reynolds, Senior Editor at Restoration News and Senior Investigative Researcher with Restoration of America, joined us for a deep dive into election integrity, media narratives, and policy impacts. 🔗 https://restoration-news.com/ ⚖️ We opened with the recent 6–3 U.S. Supreme Court decision on Louisiana’s congressional map, ruling it an unconstitutional racial gerrymander—and what that […]
Ballots Out, Big Rulings & A Whole Lot of Accountability Talk – Newsmakers At Noon 4/29/26
🗳️ Ballots are in the mail! Oregonians have until May 19th to vote—and remember, you do NOT need to be affiliated with a party to weigh in on the gas tax. Bottom line: no excuses—get out and vote. 📊 We touched on the latest Hoffman Research poll in the Oregon governor’s race, as the field […]
Real Estate Smart Moves & Don’t Miss Your Chance to Vote – Newsmakers At Noon 4/28/26
🏡 Today’s Real Estate Insights featured Janelle Cash with The McLeod Group at Keller Williams, sitting in for Amy McLeod, with practical advice for buyers and sellers navigating today’s market. 📊 Monthly Market Stats – A snapshot of current conditions and what they mean for pricing, timing, and expectations. ✨ Making Your Home Stand Out […]
Violence, Media Narratives & The Surveillance State Debate – Newsmakers At Noon 4/27/26
Today’s show tackled some heated and controversial topics, centered around political rhetoric, media narratives, and growing concerns about technology and civil liberties. We opened with a discussion around the alleged White House Correspondents Dinner shooter, drawing attention online, raising broader questions about political extremism, perception, and the dangers of misplaced certainty. The conversation examined how […]
Power, Polls, Principles & A Night of Music – Newsmakers At Noon 4/23/26
🎙️ Jeff Reynolds, Senior Editor at Restoration News and Senior Investigative Researcher with Restoration of America, joined us to break down major national stories and what they mean moving forward. 🔗 https://restoration-news.com/ ⚖️ National News: A Virginia judge has halted what’s being described as a Democrat gerrymandering power grab, raising fresh questions about election integrity […]
Healthcare Costs, Real Reform & Serving the Community – Newsmakers At Noon
🎙️ Guest: Phil Kerpen, President of American Commitment, joined us for a deep dive into what’s really driving rising healthcare costs in America. 🔗 https://www.americancommitment.org/ Kerpen made the case that big insurance companies are a major force behind skyrocketing healthcare costs—not just through their business practices, but through political influence and ongoing demands for taxpayer […]
Apathy, Elections & A Little Perspective – Newsmakers At Noon 4/21/26
We kicked things off with today’s observances—National Tea Day, National Surprise Drug Test Day (timing noted…), National Loch Ness Monster Day (still not convinced), and National Library Workers Day—a good reminder to appreciate the people who keep our communities informed. 📜 This Day in History (quick hits):From the founding of Rome (753 BC) to Texas’ […]
Gubernatorial Forum Preview, Local Leadership & Public Safety Concerns – Newsmakers At Noon 4/20/26
🎙️ Guest: Tina Musshorn joined us to preview an upcoming Republican Governor Primary Forum hosted by the Polk County Republican Women’s Club. 📅 April 23, 2026 | 6 PM 📍 Polk County Fairgrounds, Building B – Rickreall, Oregon This free, public meet-and-greet event will allow gubernatorial candidates Rep. Ed Diehl, Commissioner Danielle Bethell, and David […]
Self-Sufficiency Thursday: Are You Actually Prepared? – Newsmakers At Noon 4/16/26
Today’s show focused on self-sufficiency and preparedness—not fear-based, but practical, realistic planning for the kinds of disruptions Oregon families are most likely to face. 🗳️ We also noted that top Oregon GOP gubernatorial candidates are set to debate in Hillsboro this week, as the race continues to take shape. 📉 Meanwhile, Oregon’s unemployment rate remains […]
