Good morning, Salem.

Salem-Keizer and 10 other district leaders asked the state for earlier enrollment and demographic data on Thursday, Apr.

16 — a measure to help build budgets accurately and avoid layoffs after a $14 million funding gap was reported.

South Salem High School’s HOSA club—supporting future health care professionals—is hosting the Run for Roses 5K to raise $500 for two students to attend a national competition; the race is Sunday, May 3 at 9:30 a.m. in Bush’s Pasture Park, and registration ends April 30.

Gov. Tina Kotek signed an executive order on April 16 to stop school districts from cutting classroom time to save money.

Districts that already reduced hours must submit plans within 90 days to restore time to at least 2024-25 levels by the start of the 2027-28 school year.

Oregon seniors will see a 2.8% COLA for Social Security benefits in 2027, increasing retirement checks by about $58 monthly and SSI payments by roughly $16 to $28.

Rising living expenses may lessen the boost's relief — leaving many facing higher everyday costs.

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace released its 2025 Annual Report on April 16, showing that average premiums will rise to $426 for 2026 compared to $272 in 2025 while tax credits dropped from $531 to $525 and enrollment declined after enhanced credits ended.

Salem Capitals signed team manager Elijah Schwartz to a one-day contract so he will start Friday in a game honoring Special Olympics night.

The game will feature two Special Olympics teams at halftime and 300 community tickets (courtesy of sponsor 1525) distributed to local fans.

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.

Salem's Trading Card Showcase & Collectible Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Scottish Rite Center — Free admission — Dive into the world of Pokemon and sports cards with 75 vendor tables from across the Northwest.

2026 Alt Ed Summit

8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. — Willamette Education Service District — Check website for registration cost — Connect with educators and administrators from alternative education programs across the state at this informative summit.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your neighbors and discuss community improvement initiatives in an accessible setting.

Infant/Toddler Storytime

11:00 – 11:20 AM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Experience delightful stories, songs, and rhymes perfect for little ones and their grownups.

Preschool Storytime

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

Reboot With Krizz Kaliko

7-11 PM — Salem Armory Auditorium — Ticket information not specified — Experience a night of high-energy music from Krizz Kaliko.

Candlelight: 90s Unplugged

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Willamette Heritage Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable evening of 90s hits performed in a cozy candlelit setting.

English/Spanish Language Exchange

5:30 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Practice your language skills with community members over light refreshments.

Infant/Toddler Storytime

11:00-11:20 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy engaging stories, songs, and rhymes perfect for babies and toddlers with their grownups.