Good morning, Salem.

Cherry City Bagels will debut its fresh traditional bagels and local spreads on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Beehive Station Food Truck Pod on Southeast Fabry Road—designed to fill Salem’s bagel desert, owner James Stone will offer games, raffles and a variety of classic flavors.

Kara Alicia has spent 16 years in hospitality marketing and is now CEO and Marketing Director of KCreative.

After losing her job in 2020 during COVID-19, she started her agency and plans to work with more hotels—she credits strong relationships for her success.

On March 17, 2025, Salem-area high schools competed in the Oregon ProStart Championships at the Salem Convention Center as students cooked meals with limited resources and presented restaurant management plans.

Students from Career Technical Education Center, who won the management portion for a second year, will compete nationally in May — testing their culinary and business skills against teams from across Oregon.

Salem City Council + the planning commission examined 18 proposals to increase housing options and lower rents after many renters and homeowners faced high costs.

They will hold public hearings in May or June to set a six-year Housing Production Strategy that could include new zoning and help with down payments.

Last tax year, the Oregon Kids Credit gave low-income families up to $1,000 per child for five children when incomes were below $25,750 and helped deliver more than $39 million in benefits; so far today over 22,000 taxpayers have claimed $25 million in 2025.

Free filing options allow eligible families to claim this credit along with similar federal and state credits that can boost their refunds.

Lawmakers are considering HB 3075 that would change Measure 114—a gun control measure approved in 2022 but not yet implemented—to raise permit fees and extend processing times.

Thousands of Oregonians submitted testimony—mostly opposing the changes—as debates continue over the bill’s impact and next legal steps.

On March 10, Salem City Council approved a plan to upgrade Fairview Park by adding a dog park, gardens, a marketplace, an amphitheater, and pickleball courts.

Construction will begin in 2027—phase one will focus on parking, landscaping, and play areas with a total project cost expected to be around $19 million funded by development fees and a bond.

The Oregon Health Authority urges residents to check their measles immunity and get the MMR vaccine ahead of spring break and summer travel — officials note that while no cases have been reported so far in 2025, 31 confirmed cases occurred during last year's outbreak among unvaccinated people.

Oregon health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against measles as more than 12 states report new cases and two unvaccinated people — an adult in New Mexico and a child in Texas — have died this year.

Oregon recorded a 31-case outbreak in 2024 due to falling vaccination rates.

Mid-Valley Home Show 2025

The Mid-Valley Home Show features exhibits showcasing home improvement products and services, along with opportunities to interact with local experts in a family-friendly environment.

The Teacher Show: Stand-Up Comedy Night

This stand-up showcase features local comedians who are also teachers, sharing humorous insights on classroom dynamics.

Jordan World Circus Performance

The Jordan World Circus features thrilling performances suitable for all ages and is hosted at the Salem Armory Auditorium.

Crochet & Craft Evening for Teens

Teens are invited to bring their crochet, knitting, or fiber art projects to this free drop-in session for creativity and conversation at Salem Public Library.

Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn the art of wire wrapping to create stunning jewelry pieces with personal flair.

Ladies’ Pool Time

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $1 entry — Enjoy a friendly billiard session exclusive to women of all skill levels.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for young children and their caregivers.

Spring Craft and Vendor Show at Showbiz Salem 2025

The Showbiz Salem Spring Craft and Vendor Show will feature various vendors and craft booths at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem, Oregon.

Paint Your Pet Class

1-5 p.m. — Heroes Tap House — Ticket required — Unleash your creativity as you paint a portrait of your beloved pet while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

Beginning/Intermediate Woodcarving Class

6:45-8:45 p.m. — Center 50+ — Punch card: $20 for four classes — Enjoy the tranquility of woodcarving while working on your own projects.