Good morning, Salem.

Salem manufacturers and entrepreneurs were honored last week at SEDCOR's economic development awards—recognizing innovation in manufacturing, agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Winners including West Coast Companies, Agility Robotics, Max’s Booch and Don Pancho received awards for their work that supports local growth and jobs.

Two high school student advisers, Jaxon Woods from Sprague and Jolee McMahan from South Salem, said many students have accepted recent phone bans that require phones to be locked in pouches and are noticing more class engagement.

They will share their views at upcoming Salem-Keizer School Board meetings—helping guide decisions on school security and student well-being.

St. Paul Fire District is asking voters to approve a five-year operating levy of $1.08 per $1,000 of assessed value — this change will add about $57.50 per year for a homeowner with a $250,000 property.

The extra funds will help cover rising costs from more emergency calls and ensure round-the-clock coverage with paid paramedics.

The U.S. Justice Department said it sued Oregon and Maine for not providing electronic copies of sensitive voter data—voter registration lists and voter list maintenance information.

Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read vowed to fight the suit, arguing that sharing the data would violate privacy rights.

Cherriots is planning a payroll tax to expand bus service that will increase costs for Salem and Keizer businesses.

The Governor-appointed board, which excludes business owners, will decide on the tax in October—despite local opposition.

Salem city councilors discussed how to use extra money from a property tax raise and paid parking to support key services while planning to avoid a general fund deficit expected by 2030—officials stressed that careful spending now on programs like police and mental health is needed to offset rising costs. Council members said these steps will help leverage today’s stability to manage future financial risks.

Governor Kotek ordered state agencies to stop state workers from traveling outside the state and to prepare for cost cuts after a budget surplus turned into a $373 million deficit, as noted in her Tuesday letter.

The chief financial officer will set spending reduction targets, and agencies must save money by delaying new hires & cutting spending on supplies.

The America 250 Oregon Commission, with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, started the Oregon 250 Grant Program to support projects that mark America’s 250th anniversary.

The program gives up to $5,000 to nonprofits, local governments, schools, colleges and federally recognized tribes, with $100,000 available (half for rural areas) and two cycles (Cycle 1 from September 15 to November 1 and Cycle 2 from January 1 to March 1) while grants continue until June 30.

Mobile home residents in rural Oregon face dangerous weather because many older homes lack modern heating and cooling systems—putting them at higher risk during extreme temperatures.

EnergyTrust is funding new and retrofitted mobile homes, as seen when the Kings in Madras moved into a safer home in 2024.

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.

Sonic Journey – Sound Bath Experience

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting — $20-40 sliding scale — Immerse yourself in a meditative sound bath with gongs and crystal singing bowls for profound relaxation.