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- 🌮 Salem! Are you ready for 2025?
🌮 Salem! Are you ready for 2025?
Plus, we hope to see you at our NYE Party! :)
Jacob Espinoza
December 26, 2024
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It’s hard to believe this is our final newsletter of the year. What a journey it has been, discovering new ways to connect with our amazing community.
As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that Salem is gearing up for a year of significant challenges and potential conflicts. Despite any disagreements, I hope we can prioritize kindness and compassion toward one another.
The coming year will bring several trends that are set to reshape Salem’s social, economic, and digital landscape. Here’s a look at what’s on the horizon, why it matters, and the impact it may have on our community:
Elected Officials Will Become Media Creators
In 2025 and beyond, Salem’s officials and candidates will increasingly act like media companies, using podcasts and social media to communicate their messages effectively. Those who succeed will develop relationships and build trust with their community–getting more people to support them at the polls.
Data Point: 66% of consumers find short-form videos the most engaging content, and platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts dominate the digital space.
Addressing Salem’s Budget Deficit Will Spark Debate
Expect to see many highly charged debates over revenue options, with narratives about fairness and necessity taking center stage as Salem faces an $18 million budget deficit.
Salem’s budget deficit threatens critical services like public safety, transportation, and housing programs. The city will likely explore new taxes or revenue streams to close the gap, creating a battle to shape public opinion.
Businesses Will Shift to Hybrid Communities
As remote work and online platforms redefine daily life, businesses that combine in-person and virtual connections will gain a competitive edge. Hybrid communities cater to modern demands for flexibility and deeper engagement.
Now, let’s see What’s Happening, Salem…
Weather
🌦️Fri: Scattered showers with a high of 52
☔Sat: Rain with a high of 50
🌧️Sun: Showers with a high of 51
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Looking for a fun way to celebrate New Year’s with your little ones? Join us for the Kid’s NYE Party on Dec 31 at Salem Center!
Music, games, a photo booth, and a 9 PM balloon drop make this perfect for families. $15 includes a kid’s meal or adult drink (for those 21 and over). Let’s make memories together—grab your tickets!
What Happened Last Week in Salem?
Chemeketa Community College is experiencing a surge in enrollment after years of decline, with student numbers rising by about 800 this fall. This growth is attributed to factors such as the addition of new career-focused programs (diesel technology, leadership development), increased demand for in-demand fields (welding, healthcare), and a general return to campus life following the pandemic. While still below pre-pandemic levels, the college is optimistic about future growth and is exploring new programs to meet workforce needs and expand community education offerings. (Salem Reporter)
The City of Salem will introduce paid on-street parking in downtown beginning July 1, 2025. This change follows 48 years of free parking. The city has determined that the current parking system has not generated sufficient revenue to cover operating costs for parking programs and the maintenance of city-owned parking garages. Paid parking is anticipated to generate approximately $1.4 million in revenue during the first year. This revenue is expected to cover operating costs and eliminate the annual parking tax currently levied on downtown businesses. (Statesman Journal)
The City of Salem received a $546,530 grant from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) to restore the Minto Island Conservation Area's West Forest. The project aims to improve the health of the area along the Willamette River by restoring native forests, creating fish habitat, and reducing invasive species. This multi-year project will involve planting 36,500 native plants and removing invasive ones. The funding comes from the Oregon Lottery and federal salmon recovery funds. (City of Salem)
Upcoming Events |
Thursday, December 26
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
Friday, December 27
🧶Family Drop-In Craft | Salem Public Library | 2:00PM - 4:00PM
🚨Laser Tag Party | 3046 Portland Rd NE | 3:30PM - 5:30PM
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
🔪Slay 'Em: A Comedy Showcase of Local Killers| Infinity Room | 7:00PM
Saturday, December 28
🌨️Indoor Winter Market | Wavra Farms and Nursery | 10:00AM - 3:00PM
🚨Laser Tag Party | 3046 Portland Rd NE | 11:00AM - 1:00PM, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
♟️Casual Chess | Salem Public Library | 2:00PM
🧶Family Drop-In Craft | West Salem Public Library | 2:30PM - 3:30PM
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
🤠Ring of Fire Western Night | Mykie’s Bar & Lounge | 7:00PM - 2:00AM
Sunday, December 29
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
Monday, December 30
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PMunds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
Tuesday, December 31
💡Magic of Lights | 🌃Salem’s Biggest NYE Party | Side Hustle Bar | 9:00PM - 2:00AM
🌮Salem Kid's NYE Party! | Salem Center Mall | 7:00PM - 9:00PM
🎈Noon Year’s Eve Party | Gilbert House Children’s Museum | 10:00AM - 1:00PM
🃏NYE Celebration | B&G Bingo | 3:00PM
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
🕯️NYE Service | The River Church, 4675 Portland Rd NE | 6:00PM - 1:00AM
😂NYE Comedy: All Ages Improv with Electric Baguette | Infinity Room | 7:00PM
💤NYE Pajama Party | The Rabbit Cellar Lounge | 8:00PM
🍻NYE Party | Front Street Station | 8:00PM
🪩A Grand New Years Eve Party | Historic Grand Theatre | 8:00PM - 12:30AM
✨NYE Celebration | Wolfhound Bar & Grill | 8:00PM - 1:00AM
💃New Year's Fiesta | Xicha Brewing North | 8:00PM - 1:00AM
🥳NYE One Year Anniversary Party | Mykie’s Bar & Lounge | 8:00PM - 2:00AM
🤣NYE Comedy: Black Tie Comedy | Infinity Room | 10:00PM | 21+
Wednesday, January 1
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
🧘🏽New Years Day Yoga Class | Resonance Yoga Collective | 5:30PM
😂Stand-up open mic | Infinity Room | 7:00PM | FREE
Thursday, January 2
👑New Year, New You for Tweens | Salem Public Library | 2:00PM - 3:00PM
💡Magic of Lights | State Fairgrounds | 5:30PM - 10:00PM
Government |
Wednesday, January 1
North Lancaster Neighborhood Association Meeting | Blanchet Catholic School | 6:30PM - 8:00PM
Live Music and Dance |
Thursday, December 26
🎤Karaoke Like a Rock Star | Infinity Room | 7:00PM | FREE
Friday, December 27
🎶The Fab Four: USA Meets The Beatles! | Elsinore Theatre | 7:30PM
🎤Open Mic Night | RiverCity Rock Star Academy | 7:00PM - 9:00PM | FREE
⚡Michael Jackson Tribute Show | Historic Grand Theatre | 8:00PM
Saturday, December 28
🎵Molly & Wayne | West Hills Vineyards | 5:00PM - 7:00PM | NO COVER
🎶Galen Clark Trio ft. Sarah Clarke | Christo’s Pizzeria & Lounge | 7:00PM
🎼The Oregon Opry | Historic Grand Theatre | 7:00PM
🔥SUREFIRE | South Liberty Bar | 8:00PM
Sunday, December 29
🕺Salsa Night | Fork Forty | 6:30PM - 10:30PM
Tuesday, December 31
🤠NYE with JFK | HonkyTonk Bar & Grill | 8:00PM
⛈️Storm, New Year’s 80’s Arena Rock | South Liberty | 8:00PM - 12:10AM
🍻NYE with The Folly | McMenamins, Boon’s Treasury | 9:00PM | FREE
Wednesday, January 1
🤠Westie Wednesday’s | RJ Dance Studio, 317 Court St NE | 7:30PM - 10:00PM
Sports |
Friday, December 27
🎨Friday Night Paintball | 3046 Portland Rd NE | 5:00PM - 7:30PM
⚽Drop-in Adult Co-Ed soccer | Capital Futbol Club | 8:00PM
Saturday, December 28
🚲Super Casual Saturday Bike Ride | Begin at bottom of Bush Park soap box derby hill | 11:00AM
🎨Paintball | 3046 Portland Rd NE | 12:00PM - 7:30PM
🏀Varsity Boys Basketball: South Salem vs. Ida B. Wells @ South Salem High School | 6:30PM
🏈Holly Jolly Flag Football Bowl | Keizer Turf Fields, 1900 Chemawa RD N | 9:00AM
Sunday, December 29
🐢Slow Runners of Salem | Location TBD, check Instagram for info | 9:00AM
Monday, December 30
🏐Adult Volleyball Open Gym | NPJ Sports Complex | 9:15PM - 11:15PM
Tuesday, December 31
⚽Drop-in Adult Co-Ed soccer | Capital Futbol Club | 8:00PM
🏐Adult Volleyball Open Gym | NPJ Sports Complex | 9:15PM - 11:15PM
🏀Adult Basketball Open Gym | NPJ Sports Complex | 9:15PM - 11:15PM
Wednesday, January 1
🏃January Run - New Year’s Day! | Begin @ Riverfront Carousel | 6:00AM
🐢Slow Runners of Salem | Location TBD, check Instagram for info | 6:00PM
Job Board!
Staff Electrical Engineer
Company: Agility Robotics
Location: Salem, OR
Pay Range: Not specified
Details: Agility Robotics is seeking a Staff Electrical Engineer to design and develop robust electronics for their next-generation humanoid robot, Digit.
How to Apply: Apply Here
Junior Network Administrator
Company: Maps Credit Union
Location: Salem, OR
Pay Range: $80,000 - $92,000 per year
How to Apply: Apply Here
Service Worker
Company: Cherriots (Salem Area Mass Transit District)
Location: Salem, OR
Pay Range: Starting at $23.64 per hour
Details: Cherriots is seeking a Service Worker responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of its vehicles, facilities, and bus shelters.
How to Apply: View Full Job Announcement and Apply
Business Operations Manager
Company: Oregon Specialty Group
Location: Salem, OR
Pay Range: Not specified
Details: Oregon Specialty Group is seeking a Business Operations Manager to lead teams including new patient coordinators, service line coordinators, prior authorization, and scheduling.
How to Apply: Apply Here
Administrative Manager
Company: Salem Housing Authority (Urban Development Department)
Location: 360 Church St SE, Salem, OR
Pay Range: $7,299.07 - $9,812.40 Monthly
Details: The Salem Housing Authority is looking for a proactive and versatile Administrative Manager to lead and support administrative operations within the Urban Development Department.
How to Apply: Apply Here
Customer Service Representative
Company: Evergreen Plumbing Salem
Location: Salem, OR
Details: Are you passionate about helping others and thrive in a fast-paced environment? Join Evergreen Plumbing Salem as a Customer Service Representative and play a vital role in delivering exceptional service to our valued customers.
How to Apply: Send resume to [email protected]
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