Rogue Brewing Ales & Spirits is launching a new pubhouse in West Salem, emphasizing community engagement and local brews. The spacious venue aims to be a comfortable hub for families and sports teams, featuring events and local partnerships. President Steven Garrett, a local graduate, aspires to reintegrate Rogue into the Salem community.
Rukaiyah Adams is determined to revitalize Portland’s Albina neighborhood through the 1803 Fund, which addresses economic disparities faced by Black communities. Launched in 2020, the Fund honors York’s legacy and focuses on community empowerment, cultural investments, and providing resources for Black entrepreneurs, creating a path toward economic justice and resilience.
Bo & Vine Burger Bar, founded by Michael Adams in Salem, specializes in high-quality gourmet burgers crafted from fresh, certified Angus beef. The restaurant, which originated from a food truck, prides itself on unique recipes and customization options. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, its commitment to quality and innovation ensures continued success.
Chemeketa Community College has initiated programs to tackle workforce shortages in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology in Oregon through the Workforce Ready Grant. These programs enhance access for underserved communities by providing skills training, job placements, and support services. Innovative models, like the LPN-to-RN hybrid, aim to improve healthcare delivery and diversity.
High school students in Oregon can participate in a media contest promoting workplace safety for young workers, organized by the O[yes] Coalition. Participants create videos or graphic designs to motivate peers to complete safety training, with cash prizes for top entries. The deadline is February 21, 2025, emphasizing youth empowerment in safety.
Chemeketa Community College has received a $499,969 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to establish a Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success. This initiative aims to enhance support services for veteran students, increase graduation rates, and foster peer connections, reflecting the college’s commitment to educational equity and veteran empowerment.
Sam Skillern III is stepping down as Executive Director of the Salem Leadership Foundation after nearly three decades, leaving a legacy of community-building and collaboration. His innovative leadership during financial crises and initiatives like Churches as Neighborhood Centers empowered local organizations. Skillern emphasizes the importance of local engagement and storytelling for aspiring leaders.
Derek Gilbert’s journey from Corvallis, Oregon, to a successful career in financial advising showcases resilience and adaptability. After transitioning from firefighting to founding Anthem Wealth Strategies, he emphasizes community engagement, mentoring, and relationship-building. Gilbert aims to expand his firm while training new advisors, advocating a service-first mentality and fostering trust and genuine connections.
The recent election allows continued representation in House District 21. Key legislative focuses include implementing Measure 110 reforms for addiction recovery, addressing homelessness through enhanced mental health services, changing land use policies for housing accessibility, revising public safety laws, advancing transportation projects, and improving education resources. Collaboration is essential for progress.
The Bonneville Power Administration’s Energy Smart Industrial program celebrates its 15th anniversary, significantly enhancing energy efficiency in the Pacific Northwest’s industrial sector. With over 7,000 projects completed, it has saved substantial energy, supported operational improvements, and remains critical as the region transitions from coal to renewable sources while promoting sustainability.
