The 
Oregon Chapter of IAWP carried forward one of its most cherished traditions on Saturday, December 6, 2025, hosting its annual holiday celebration at the iconic Salem Carousel. For two joyful hours, the building was alive with laughter, carousel music, and the kind of heartfelt reconnection that many remote workers have been longing for. The carousel itself—nestled along Salem’s scenic riverfront—offered a nostalgic, picture-perfect backdrop that set the tone for an evening of community and cheer.
A Celebration of Community This year’s event welcomed 139 attendees, a testament to the enduring
popularity of the tradition. Admission was once again completely free for Oregon Employment Department (OED) employees and their families, thanks to the generosity of the Oregon Chapter. It was more than a gift of entry—it was a gesture of gratitude for the dedication, compassion, and service that IAWP members bring to job seekers and employers throughout the year.
Family Fun and Festive Traditions Families delighted in unlimited carousel rides, a cozy hot cocoa bar, and trays of holiday cookies. Santa himself made the evening magical for children, posing for photos that many families used as early holiday cards—creating keepsakes destined to be treasured for years to come. A special highlight was the attendance of Andrew Stolfi, the new Oregon Employment Department Director, who joined with his family to share in the celebration.
The Spirit of Giving In keeping with the season, attendees were encouraged to support Toys for Tots. Together, they donated toys—including four especially adorable stuffed animals—and contributed cash gifts. These donations will brighten the holidays for local children and families, extending the joy of the event far beyond the carousel’s walls.
A Tradition That Endures This year marked the 19th Salem Carousel celebration hosted 
by the Oregon Chapter, with only a brief pause in 2020 and 2021. Over time, the gathering has grown into far more than a festive outing—it has become a cornerstone tradition, uniting the workforce community in a warm, relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Reconnection in a Remote World For many OED staff who now work remotely, the evening
offered a rare and welcome chance to see coworkers face-to-face. At the entrance, a greeting table set the tone with warm welcomes, sign-ins, and even hugs. The smiles, waves, and laughter—especially as adults and children alike spun around on the carousel—captured the spirit of connection that IAWP works tirelessly to foster.
Gratitude for Volunteers The event was made possible through the dedication of the Oregon Chapter’s leaders and volunteers. Special thanks go to the Board members who helped orchestrate the evening: Ron and Brenda Sohnrey, Steve and Bobbi Corwin, Steve Strain, Grant Axtell, and Erika Motozko, whose support ensured everything ran smoothly.
A Community That Cares From toys collected to hugs exchanged, the 2025 Salem Carousel celebration once again reflected what makes the Oregon IAWP community so extraordinary: people who care deeply about one another, about the work they do, and about the communities they serve.