Daily
Salem
Thursday, March 26th, 2026
Good morning, Salem. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of March.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ State officials announced the final awards for the $50M Child Care Infrastructure Fund that supported over 180 projects since 2024, giving 60 providers matching funds for renovations and new construction. Governor Tina Kotek celebrated the program's role in expanding affordable child care across multiple counties. Oregon Capital Chronicle
- ➤ Salem elementary students will receive extra reading help in the fall as the district rolls out a tutoring program funded by a $1.5 million state grant. More than 1,000 students will be prioritized at schools deemed highest need—such as Auburn, Eyre and Swegle elementaries. Salem Reporter
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Oregon Department of Forestry announced over $3.2 million to boost forest resilience planning and technical support on federal lands including Rogue River–Siskiyou and Mt. Hood. The awards will help speed environmental planning for restoration projects during the 2025–27 biennium. 1430 KYKN
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Salem has expanded its West Salem Urban Renewal Area Capital Improvement Grant Program to support business retention, expansion, or relocation by funding up to half a project's cost — changes aimed at boosting job growth and attracting food, health and financial services to the area. Salem Reporter
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Oregon Housing and Community Services said its Flex Lending program helped 954 households buy homes in 2025 by offering down payment help and lower rates through 33 lenders statewide — the program supported diverse buyers including veterans, people of color and rural residents. 1430 KYKN
- ➤ Salem-based ideabox is expanding its market as interest grows for prefab homes, ADUs and flexible housing to meet Oregon's housing challenges. The company has worked for 20 years to offer modern designs and faster construction (located at 1968 Commercial St. NE). Salem Business Journal
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Beginner English as a Second Language Class
3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — A multilingual ESL class for beginners taught by local instructors from Goodwill Industries.
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Russ Taff Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying voice of Christian music legend Russ Taff live on stage.
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Alfred Robles Stand-Up Comedy
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Cost information not provided — Enjoy a night of laughs with one of the hottest young comedians in the country.
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Daddy Daughter Dance: A Night in New York
4-7 p.m. — The Withnell Family YMCA — $45+ — Enjoy a magical evening filled with dancing, crafts, and delicious food trucks.
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Salem Fashion Week Runway Show
2:15-9:30 p.m. — Salem Convention Center — Free admission — Experience local designers showcasing fashion in a vibrant community celebration.
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Finding Hope, Resilience, and Strength During Turbulent Times All-inclusive Retreat
This retreat will offer a restorative space to rest and rejuvenate in the healing waters as well as guide you on your journey to mindfulness and hopefulness. Find healing and hope through activities like guided meditations, exploration and discovery of strengths and resilience, movement and mobility, soothing sound baths, artistic endeavors, and more!
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Preschool Storytime
10:15-10:40 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for children ages 2½ to 6 and their grownups.
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Cultural and Tourism Promotion Advisory Board Monthly Meeting
6 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Engage in community discussions on cultural and tourism initiatives.
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A New Moon Ball: A Bridgerton Themed Ball
6-10 p.m. — Willamette Heritage Center — VIP dinner available — Step into the Regency era for an enchanting night of dancing and revelry inspired by Bridgerton.
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Spring Floral Paint & Sip Workshop
1-4 p.m. — Chemeketa Cellars Tasting Room — Not specified — Unwind while painting fresh spring florals in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.
~ Tony Robbins
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