Good morning, Salem.

New state data shows 2,772 Salem-Keizer seniors (four in five) earned their diplomas at a 79.7% rate, a slight gain from last year but still below the 82.8% target as district leaders focus on boosting graduation numbers.

The Oregon Department of Education announced on Thursday, Jan.

29 that 83% of the class of 2025 (the first to attend all four years in person since the pandemic) graduated on time, marking a record increase with about 500 more graduates than last year. Data show a 9-point gain over the last decade.

The Oregon Department of Transportation said northbound lanes of I-5 at the Aurora-Donald Interchange (Exit 278) and Ehlen Road will close overnight on Feb.

3 for beam installations to build a new bridge, and lanes will reopen by 7 a.m. on Feb. 4.

Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth told council that the city-run ambulance system is financially healthy with improved staffing, stable revenues, and better availability since the fire department took over in July.

The system now meets county mandates with reduced downtime while new hires lower overtime costs & boost efficiency.

Salem city leaders discussed plans to expand the Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem (pilot) that boosts police, cleaning and mental health teams for downtown homelessness and will request $2.75 million from the state for long-term funding.

Business owners and service providers gathered Thursday at The Forge to review next steps.

Tax season started Jan.

26, but if lawmakers do not pass a funding bill by Saturday, Jan. 31, a potential federal shutdown could delay Oregon tax refunds as the IRS may again slow processing & furlough employees similar to prior funding lapses.

An analysis from KFF shows seniors in Marion and Polk counties now have fewer Medicare Advantage options, with 22 and 18 plans available compared to 32 nationally.

Some residents lost coverage when providers left the area (SHIBA offers free Medicare counseling and guidance).

During 2026 Open Enrollment, 118,372 Oregonians enrolled in marketplace health coverage despite a 15 percent drop from last year as rising premiums followed the loss of federal tax credits; enrollees are advised to pay their first month’s premium and check provider networks to confirm coverage activation.

Salem-area hospitals and health organizations will expand mobile care with free youth sports physicals by June and health screenings by June 2027, as part of a five-year plan by the Marion-Polk Community Health Collaborative to ease access issues in Marion and Polk counties (REACH team launched recently).

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore a diverse indoor market featuring local vendors from woodworking to gourmet foods.

The Severin Sisters Evensong Concert

4:00 p.m. — St. Paul’s Episcopal Church — Donations accepted — Experience the sacred harmonies of local talent in a bluegrass and gospel concert.

Music & Poetry Open Mic Night

7-10 p.m. — Infinity Room — No cover — A vibrant evening showcasing local music and poetry talents.

You Can’t Take it with You — Cue Captions

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Pentacle Theatre — Ticket info available — Enjoy a captioned performance of this classic comedy.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore a diverse market with 45+ vendors offering unique goods in a cozy greenhouse setting.

Polar Plunge Fundraiser

9 AM - 1 PM — Illahe Hills Country Club — $60 — Take the plunge to support Special Olympics Oregon athletes in a fun and chilly challenge.

Salem's Premier Trading Card Showcase & Collectibles Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Scottish Rite Center — Free admission — Discover a treasure trove of sports cards, rare collectibles, and unique items at this vibrant showcase.

Paint & Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Flight Deck Restaurant & Lounge — Full food and drink menu available — Unleash your inner artist at a chill painting session with friends.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your neighbors to help shape community decisions and improvements.

Oregon Symphony Young People's Concert

11:30 AM — Smith Auditorium — $7 per person — Experience a symphony performance specifically curated for students in a fun and engaging setting.