COVID-19

CDC updates symptom list for COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has added several new symptoms to its existing list for COVID-19. Fever, cough and shortness of breath are indications that someone might have the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. On Monday, April 27, the CDC added six more conditions that may come[Read More…]

New hope for SKPS commencement ceremonies

On April 22, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Superintendent Christy Perry met with leaders from the Class of 2020 to discuss commencement plans. Joined by their high school principals, the students shared their wishes to prioritize in-person graduation ceremonies, even if it means delaying them, over virtual ceremonies conducted at previously scheduled[Read More…]

City doubles number of grants for small business

At its meeting Monday, April 20, the Keizer City Council voted to dedicate $45,000 in economic development money it was receiving to forgivable loans to support small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the meeting, there was discussion of only nine $5,000 forgivable loans, but city leaders have since decided[Read More…]

Avamere reports 1 COVID-19 infection

Two long-term facilities in Keizer have documented cases of COVID-19 infections according to a list released by the state of Oregon Friday, April 17.  Last week, The Oaks at Sherwood Park in south Keizer was discovered to be battling one of the larger outbreaks at a long-term facility in the[Read More…]

How to make a face mask

With social media posts from those who need face masks dominating, we collected some how-to videos for those still in need. No-sews: With a bandana – With an old T-shirt – Sewing-involved: With ear straps – With around-the-head straps –

Local business owners feel fear and hope as a federal program runs out of money

Johnathan Thompson stands in the hallway of Northwest Dental Arts. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter) Depending on the hour, Johnathan Thompson alternates between nervous and hopeful. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, Thompson closed Northwest Dental Arts, a clinic he’s owned with his wife in Keizer since 2013. Still, he kept his staff[Read More…]

KeizerFEST postponed

For the first time in four decades, the annual KeizerFEST has been postponed and the irises that are typically a focal point of the festivities will be long out of bloom when it returns. Concerns about the spread of COVID-19 prompted the Keizer Chamber of Commerce, the organizer of the[Read More…]

‘An absolute miracle’

Nikki Matiskainen (on the stretcher) talks with her mom, Jill, as she returns home to The Oaks at Sherwood Park Monday, April 13. Matiskainen survived a harrowing battle with COVID-19. Jill Matiskainen hadn’t seen her daughter Nikki in more than a month. When she finally did, on Monday, April 13,[Read More…]