Good morning, Salem.

Church at the Park reduced its shelter beds and laid off 16 staff due to a $2 million state funding cut.

The nonprofit will rely on community partners—helping fill gaps in services—to continue supporting young adults.

The Elsinore Theatre lit up downtown Salem Friday with a new 23-foot replica of its historic blade sign as part of its ongoing renovation ahead of its 100th anniversary.

The sign, which copies a design lost in a 1962 storm, comes as the theater completes $1.2 million in exterior updates and prepares interior upgrades—beginning next year.

A new report by the Center for American Progress found that Oregon lost over $48 million in federal funds for rural roads, public services and schools since the Secure Rural Schools Act expired at the end of 2023 — a cut that has strained budgets in rural counties.

Sen. Ron Wyden said local districts may soon receive retroactive payments to help cover the shortfall.

On Sunday at 6 p.m.—920 gallons of raw sewage spilled into Claggett Creek near 1860 Hawthorne Ave N.E. when a blockage clogged the sewer line, and city crews cleared it by 8 p.m., with water quality testing underway and the public advised to avoid contact with the creek.

Salem business groups have offered $360,000 to cover the cost for two police officers to patrol downtown on bikes later this year—Mayor Julie Hoy said the effort aims to boost community safety.

City council members will review the proposal on Sept. 17, and patrols could begin by the holiday parade on Nov. 28.

SPCC Annual Luncheon 2025

12-2 p.m. — Broadway Commons — Free lunch — Enjoy insights from Ben Olson on thriving in relationships with practical tools for connection.

Bringing Sea Otters Back to Oregon

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Venti's Cafe + Beer Vault — Free entry — Discover the importance of sea otters and the ecosystem from a passionate marine biologist.

IN A LANDSCAPE: Riverfront Park

4-10 p.m. — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Experience classical music amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the American West.

Art, Books, and Music Evening

5-7 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — A creative showcase for authors and artists to connect and display their talents.

Beginner ESL Class

3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Participate in a multilingual beginner-level English class with supportive instruction.

Yoga + Coffee at Prismatic

12-1 p.m. — Prismatic Coffee Company — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a midday yoga flow followed by coffee in a sustainable community.

Timeless Footprints with Annette Jensen

2-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Explore how to make a lasting impact on the world around you with an inspiring talk from Annette Jensen.

Youth Coordinated Entry Program Visit

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Learn about housing assistance and resources for youth ages 14-24 from local community organizations.

October Salem Stoic Society Meeting

5:00 – 6:30 PM — IKE Box Café — Free entry — Explore practical Stoicism to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience with like-minded individuals.

Michael Carbonaro Live Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — All ages welcome — Experience the magic and comedy of Michael Carbonaro known for his hidden camera magic series.