Good morning, Salem.

An independent review of Church at the Park shows the nonprofit spent 91% of its $7.8 million funding on program services (67% on salaries), countering social media claims.

The organization reduced positions due to a 20% contract cut and now faces funding challenges amid visible encampments.

Residents can enjoy local holiday events such as Keizer's Holiday Lights Parade Dec.

13 from 7 to 9 p.m. on River Road, a winter festival at Silver Falls, and Magic of Lights at the State Fairgrounds through Jan. 3 & a Salem Tuba Holiday on Christmas Eve.

Public K-12 schools and universities across Oregon have set their winter break dates.

Salem-Keizer Public Schools begin break on Dec. 22 with classes resuming Jan. 5, while local universities start vacation on Dec. 13 (Dec. 14 for Southern) and end on Jan. 4.

Marion County, Polk County and city officials have begun a collaborative effort to address homelessness at Wallace Marine Park in West Salem.

The joint plan came after a meeting on Dec. 2 and includes expanded outreach and upcoming public conversations (with Mayor Hoy) on safety and shelter access.

Consumers (eligible) who bought apps on the Google Play Store between Aug.

2016 and Sept. 2023 may get a payout from a $700 million settlement announced by Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield; notifications began Dec. 2 and payouts will start once a court approves the settlement on April 30.

Consumer advocates at the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation recovered $1,836,127 in Q3 to help bring the year-to-date total to $5.66 million refunded to Oregonians.

They handled 1,422 complaints, with 890 about insurance + other financial matters.

Oregon Housing and Community Services is funding the creation or preservation of 4,806 affordable rental homes across Oregon + a 50% boost from 2024 despite rising costs, with Executive Director Andrea Bell stating that the faster funding process will drive economic growth and improve housing opportunities.

December Paint & Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Vortex Eatery & Taphouse — Full menu available — Enjoy an evening of creativity with drinks and painting in a relaxed setting.

Santa Baby Holiday Networking Event 2025

5:30-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Get ready to jingle and mingle at a festive night of connections and cheer for local businesses.

High Risk Driver Course

6-10 p.m. — Salem Hospital, Building D — Court-mandated attendance — Complete the required class for high risk drivers to avoid penalties.

Lancaster Family Health Center Flu Clinic

2-6 p.m. — Lancaster Family Health Center at Lancaster — Insurance accepted — Help fight off the flu with a timely in-and-out trip to the clinic.

Private Visit & Photos with Santa

8:10-8:15 p.m. — Salem Riverfront Carousel — $30 reservation fee — Experience a magical holiday moment with Santa and capture keepsake photos.

Brooks Ugly Sweater Party

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Brooks Wine — Food and wine available for purchase — Flaunt your favorite ugly sweater for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-12:30 a.m. — The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center — $31.95 — Experience the enchanting sound of Christmas classics performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

End of the Year Art Mixer

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Salem on the Edge Art Gallery — Free entry — Celebrate the year's end in a vibrant local art space with community camaraderie.

Holiday Party and White Elephant Gift Exchange

6-8:30 p.m. — Cascadia Pizza Co. — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with pizza, joy, and a fun gift exchange.

Salem Tuba Holiday

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Donations welcomed — Celebrate the season with a festive performance featuring community musicians playing beloved holiday tunes on tubas and other conical bore instruments.