Decision 2024: Salem’s Economic future at the Forefront of City Elections
As Salem gears up for its city council and mayoral elections on May 21st, the business community will see significant distinctions between the candidates on key economic issues. The spotlight has particularly fallen on the contentious payroll tax proposal of 2023, which has become a dividing line for how the candidates each approach taxes and their overall philosophy of governance.
Last summer, by a vote of 5 to 4, the Mayor and City Council approved a payroll tax on Salem workers. The proponents of the tax argued that the city needed more revenue to cover increased city spending. The tax would have cost the average worker $500 per year. Knowing it would likely be defeated at the ballot box, the Mayor and Council defeated an effort by …
Mayra Rocha Pioneers Real State and Community Service
Salem stands proud of its entrepreneurs who not only push the bounds of their industries but also forge deep connections within their community. One such trailblazer is Mayra Rocha, Principal Broker and Owner of Rocha Realty LLC, and Rocha Contracting and Reforestation LLC. With a deep-rooted commitment to fostering community growth and inclusion, Rocha has …
Senior Financial Advisor and Partner Ryan Skogstad Shaping Salem’s Financial Landscape
SALEM, Ore. – At Capstone Wealth Advisors, Senior Financial Advisor and co-owner Ryan Skogstad stands out not only for his business acumen but also for his dedication to the Salem community. Under his leadership, Capstone has become one of the fastest-growing Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in America, a distinction noted by InvestmentNews in their 2023 report. The firm, managing approximately $700 million in assets, has more than doubled its asset base since July 2020.
Reflecting on his journey, Skogstad credits his rise in part to a steadfast commitment to his principles and community. “I feel what has helped me be most successful is simply the consistency and drive to excel. It hasn’t always been easy. But I haven’t waivered on my commitment to grow in my work life, but also contribute to the areas in the community…
Rich Duncan Construction Celebrates VP of Operations’ 20th Anniversary
Nate Cook, Vice President of Operations at Rich Duncan Construction, recently celebrated his 20th anniversary with the company. Cook, a business partner at the firm, was honored with a celebration marking this significant milestone.
"We organized a social hour at Rudy’s, where Rich surprised him with a blue Corvette," said Brooke Scott, Communications C…
White’s Restaurant: A Beacon of Comfort Food in Salem’s Culinary Landscape
Nestled in the heart of Salem, White's Restaurant has emerged as a cornerstone of culinary tradition, offering a haven of comfort food to the community for 88 years. This enduring legacy is the work of Mike and Nicole White, whose foray into the restaurant industry is a blend of passion and destiny.
Mike White, leveraging his five-year tenure in fine dini…
Salem Events: April
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Local Real Estate Market Report: Explanation of the Infographic & it’s Trends
By: Statistics presented by WVMLS (Willamette Valley Multiple Listing Service) in collaboration with Domus Analytics
This month’s infographic from WVMLS compares February 2024 data to the same period in 2023. The focus is on residential listings with lots sizes under half an acre in the Salem/Keizer area. A noteworthy shift up 4.2% in new listings compa…
Two Tips for Rebuilding Credit
Rebuilding credit can seem impossible, but with time (at least 6 months) and consistency, it’s very straight-forward. Here are the two tips for rebuilding your score: 1. Set up auto-pay so you never miss a minimum payment. On-time payment history is the largest part of a credit score (35%). 2. Focus on reducing your debt load. Pay down debt and keep in
Had heart trouble? Six lifestyle changes to consider
Lifestyle factors have a huge influence on your overall health as well as your risk for future cardiovascular issues. This list is probably nothing new, but that doesn't mean it's not important!
If you smoke, quit. Smoking damages your heart, lungs and blood vessels, and makes it harder for your body to repair itself. Eat a nutrient-rich, low-choles…