Good morning, Salem.

A website now lets people search over one million digitized photos, letters, and documents from libraries, museums, and heritage groups.

The collections include items from Salem Public Library and were gathered through a partnership started in 2021 to share the region's history.

Oregon’s 197 school districts will get nearly $77 million from the Common School Fund in 2025—this record payout is $2.5 million higher than last year and $12 million more than in 2022.

Funding amounts are based on student numbers, with the average district set to receive about $390,000.

Education experts say that despite record funding, Oregon schools still face low test scores and widening achievement gaps.

They urge five steps—such as investing in proven programs and tying funds to clear results—to guide future K-12 spending.

Today, the Oregon State Capitol Foundation announced nearly $120,000 in Civics Education Initiative grants to nine nonprofits to boost programs that teach citizens how government works.

The funds will support school trips, classroom activities, and mock legislative sessions (including summer camps and after school programs) to help people learn the lawmaking process.

Oregon State Parks had more than 53.85 million day-use visits last year—about 200,000 more than in 2021.

The parks will hire over 200 seasonal rangers this year and adjust visitor fees to help cover rising costs for older facilities.

Deputy Chief Jerry Mott, a 26-year law enforcement veteran, will become Dallas' new police chief on July 1 as current chief Tom Simpson retires on June 30 — Mott began his career with Dallas Police in 2004 after working as an Oregon State Police cadet and as a sheriff's deputy in Polk and Benton counties.

The Oregon Health Authority announced that people 65 and older and those with weakened immune systems are now eligible for an extra dose of the 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine — the booster can be given as soon as two months after the first dose — and officials urge these individuals to consult their healthcare providers.

St. Patrick's Day Cocktail Celebration

Applebee's Grill + Bar invites guests to enjoy festive cocktails themed around St. Patrick's Day, featuring options like the Tipsy Leprechaun and the new Golden Goose, alongside non-alcoholic beverages for all ages.

Infant and Toddler Storytime at Salem Public Library

Youth Services staff will lead an engaging storytime session featuring stories, songs, and rhymes for children aged 0 to 2½ with their caregivers.

Mid-Valley Home Show 2025

The Mid-Valley Home Show features exhibits showcasing home improvement products and services, along with opportunities to interact with local experts in a family-friendly environment.

The Teacher Show: Stand-Up Comedy Night

This stand-up showcase features local comedians who are also teachers, sharing humorous insights on classroom dynamics.

Jordan World Circus Performance

The Jordan World Circus features thrilling performances suitable for all ages and is hosted at the Salem Armory Auditorium.

Crochet & Craft Evening for Teens

Teens are invited to bring their crochet, knitting, or fiber art projects to this free drop-in session for creativity and conversation at Salem Public Library.

Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn the art of wire wrapping to create stunning jewelry pieces with personal flair.

Ladies’ Pool Time

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $1 entry — Enjoy a friendly billiard session exclusive to women of all skill levels.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for young children and their caregivers.

Spring Craft and Vendor Show at Showbiz Salem 2025

The Showbiz Salem Spring Craft and Vendor Show will feature various vendors and craft booths at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem, Oregon.