Good morning, Salem.

A Take 5 Oil Change is under construction on Lancaster Drive near Dairy Queen and other local landmarks; company officials confirmed the franchise partner will open the new spot in the first half of 2026 (replacing a long-vacant shopping center).

This February, Salem galleries host diverse art exhibits including an adult erotica show at Salem on the Edge and a live Art Walk today from 5+8 p.m. for performances and receptions; other events offer drawing lessons, floral arrangements, and a pop-up tattoo group show.

Oregon residents will gain extra sunlight in February; in Salem, daylight increases from 9 hours 49 minutes on Feb.

1 to 11 hours 7 minutes on Feb. 28, adding about 1 hour 18 minutes while changes vary by location.

Cherriots and LYT announced the launch of cloud-based transit signal priority technology across 22 intersections along the Lancaster Drive corridor yesterday to improve on-time performance on Route 11.

The system helps reduce bus delays (up to 20% fewer late vehicles) and boosts riders’ transit reliability.

Cherriots buses on Lancaster Drive in Salem ran 20% more on time after a traffic signal priority system was activated in December 2025 to adjust 22 signals when buses were late (a driver survey confirmed improved timing).

City officials will monitor the system for more changes.

A logjam on the Molalla River at river mile 38 blocked all travel yesterday near Horse Creek Bridge and led the Bureau of Land Management to issue a safety advisory — boaters are urged to use Turner Creek Bridge 3.5 miles downstream while remaining alert for hazards.

The Oregon Department of Revenue is partnering with community groups to boost participation in federal and state tax credits that can give eligible families cash refunds.

A single parent earning $24,000 may receive over $12,000 while free tax filing help is offered statewide.

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.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Engage in interactive stories, songs, and movement designed for young children and their caregivers.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore a cozy indoor market featuring over 45 local vendors with a variety of goods.

Paint and Sip at The Rabbit Cellar Lounge

7-9 p.m. — The Rabbit Cellar Lounge — Ticket required — Unleash your artistic side with painting, food, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere.

Trivia Night at Stomp

6-8 p.m. — Stomp by Croft Vineyards — Winning team gets a $50 gift card — Test your trivia skills with great food and wine in a lively atmosphere.