Good morning, Salem.

WFMC Health — a trusted provider in east Salem — will open a new community classroom by the end of this year to host support groups, literacy programs and citizenship classes for nearly 15,000 low-income patients.

The grant from the Willamette Health Council will fund the space that includes a small kitchen and exam room for prenatal support and diabetes management programs.

Salem is seeing many new businesses open despite tough economic times—small eateries and tech firms are starting while big projects like The Forge and Southgate Shopping Center help boost local confidence.

However, the city faces challenges with a forecasted $13.8 million budget shortfall and a 5.1% unemployment rate as it works to rebuild its economy.

In the May 20 special election, Salem voters will elect four school board members, a new Ward 6 city councilor, and vote on a property tax levy to support library, parks and Center 50+ services while Chemeketa voters consider a bond for campus improvements and Polk County residents decide on a levy to upgrade the Rickreall fairgrounds — all nonpartisan measures. Voter registration is open until April 29 and ballots will be mailed starting April 30 — residents should update their information if needed.

Starting May 7th, residents 18 and older must have a REAL ID (marked by a star) or another TSA-approved form of identification to fly domestically.

Currently, only 37% of IDs are REAL ID-compliant, so those without one will need alternative ID (such as a U.S. passport) to access federal facilities.

Jim Sellers, a certified Medicare counselor, explains eight common Medicare mistakes—ranging from not comparing costs during open enrollment to skipping drug coverage—and urges Salem residents to use SHIBA volunteer services for personalized advice.

Fighters from across the Pacific Northwest will gather in Salem on Saturday, April 26 for an all-day longsword tournament at Krav Maga Salem—running from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.—where competitors struggle in quick gauntlets for prizes like training swords, books and a custom knife.

The event will also feature youth rounds and a free pub quiz starting at 5 p.m. at Xicha Brewing North Salem Taproom.

2025 USA Gymnastics Region 2 Xcel Championships

8 a.m. — The Pavilion — Parking $10 — Top gymnasts compete for glory from States across the region.

Oregon Ag Festival

All day — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Admission details not provided — Discover Oregon agriculture through hands-on exhibits and family-friendly activities.

Oregon Ag Fest

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free for kids 15 and under — Experience hands-on activities and learn about the vital role of agriculture in Oregon.

Pine Needle Basket Making Class

9 AM – 12 PM — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn to weave beautiful baskets with experienced instructors in this engaging arts and crafts class.

Line Dancing Classes

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $20 punch card for five classes — Get moving with fun line dancing sessions suited for both beginners and intermediates.

Writers Group Gathering

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Share your stories and connect with fellow writers in a supportive environment.

Marion County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale

May 2-3 — Columbia Hall — Free entry — Discover over 10,000 plants including vegetables, perennials, and special fuchsia baskets for Mother’s Day.

Awesome 3000

8 AM – 1 PM — McCulloch Stadium — Free entry — A long-standing youth event featuring exciting participation from Salem-Keizer and the surrounding areas.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons Concert

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Cost info not specified — Experience the vibrant classical charm of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performed by the Oregon Symphony.

Salem Saturday Market

4-9 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate local craftsmanship with over 150 vendors offering handmade and homegrown treasures.