Good morning, Salem.

The inaugural Salem Paper Arts Fair held April 18 in downtown Salem showcased independent artists, workshops and live readings in the daytime before transforming into the immersive Booklover’s Ball with music and dancing—backed by Salem on the Edge and local businesses, the event celebrated analog art and community creativity.

A 7.7 quake shook northern Japan on Monday, April 20 (its epicenter 62 miles east-northeast of Iwate’s coast), but federal officials said no measurable shaking was felt in Oregon today.

Agencies note that Oregon faces little tsunami risk because a quake must be 8.5 or higher to trigger such threats.

State officials are reviewing a merger proposal between Salem Health and Santiam Hospital and Clinics.

The review lasts 30 days, and if approved, Salem Health will invest $61 million over the next decade with $10 million paid upfront+ to upgrade Santiam’s services.

Oregonians facing higher 2026 premiums saw costs rise 56%—from $272 to $426 per month—as enrollment dropped by 21,000 with many switching to bronze plans after enhanced tax credits expired.

The state will launch its own marketplace in 2027 to offer more control over coverage.

Fewer Oregonians are enrolling in marketplace plans as reduced federal credits and stricter documentation rules cause a drop of 21,000 participants for 2026—driving average premiums up to $426 from $272 last year.

Century-old Oak Knoll Golf Course, 6 miles (west of Salem) on Hwy 22, closed on April 20 after being sold to Wandering In Time Holdings LLC for $6.2 million, leaving its 58-acre site’s future unclear.

The property includes an 18-hole course, driving range and a 5,000-sqft building.

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.

Bach & Mendelssohn: Tradition and Transformation

7-8:30 p.m. — Smith Auditorium — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of Bach’s Violin Concerto in A Minor performed by the McKay Orchestras featuring Jessica Lee.

41st Annual Sheep to Shawl

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Mission Mill Museum — Admission details not specified — A wool-themed day featuring live shearing demonstrations and fun activities for all ages.

Store Signing with Madeleine

12-2 p.m. — Omega Frog Comics — Free entry — Meet writer Madeleine Holly-Rosing and get your new Lady Mechanika issue signed.

Sensory Friendly Movie in Salem

6-8 p.m. — Regal Santiam — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere to watch a family-friendly film tailored for sensory sensitivity.