I came across this post, viewtopic.php?f=10&t=136&start=10
As I was having the black loading screen error I was willing to try it so I downloaded the software and ..... It Works!
I have no idea why running thru a VPN allows Salem to load but it does, for me at least.
Seems to have nothing to do with Java or Video Card Drivers..... Just a janky ISP maybe?
The software I use is, https://cyberghostvpn.com/
It has a free 1 gig a month option and walking away from Boston for an hour or more only used 65 megs according to the counter.
To the bug seekers I have ATT DSL located in Texas I get about 300 kB/sec down max.