Good morning, Salem.

ODOT has revised the plan to improve the dangerous Highway 22 and Highway 51 interchange near Salem by splitting the 280 million dollar project into eight phases; the first phase—an overpass and loop ramp—costs 50 million dollars and could see design start in 2026 if funds become available.

Oregon legislators met from Sept.

29 to Oct. 1 to study the federal reconciliation bill H.R.1, known as the Big, Beautiful Bill, which is expected to cut $15 billion from state agencies over six years and affect SNAP, Medicaid, solar programs, and the state budget. Lawmakers said the bill will force work requirements for Medicaid starting Dec. 31 and reduce food benefits for over 300,000 families—debates on cost-saving measures and alternative strategies continue.

Sonic Journey – Sound Bath Experience

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting — $20-40 sliding scale — Immerse yourself in a meditative sound bath with gongs and crystal singing bowls for profound relaxation.

Oregon Ready Fair 2025

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — 3930 Fairview Industrial Dr SE, Salem, OR — Free entry — A community event focused on practical emergency preparedness and hands-on learning for all ages.

Spooky Boo Paint Night

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Valiant the Sandwich — All materials included — Unleash your creativity with a ghostly painting experience this Halloween.

Spooky Cute Paint Night

6-8 p.m. — Vortex Eatery + Taphouse — All materials included — Unleash your creativity with a fun, spooky painting experience designed for all skill levels.

The Winery Comedy Tour

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Cubanisimo Vineyards — Drinks available — Enjoy a night filled with laughter from some of the funniest comedians in the country.

Author Meet & Greet Book Signing

1-4 p.m. — Barnes & Noble Salem — Free entry — Celebrate the release of the final book in the Alex McKenna series with a cozy book signing event.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Free entry — Engage with your community and participate in important neighborhood discussions.

Needle Felting Class - Pumpkin

6-8 p.m. — CreativiTee — Pre-registration required — Learn to needle felt a pumpkin and expand your fiber arts knowledge this fall.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Discover local vendors and enjoy the warmth of the indoor market this winter.

The Ty Curtis Band

4-8 p.m. — Beehive Station — Entry details not specified — Ty Curtis returns to his bluesy roots with new music on the way.

Finding Hope, Resilience, and Strength During Turbulent Times All-inclusive Retreat

This retreat will offer a restorative space to rest and rejuvenate in the healing waters as well as guide you on your journey to mindfulness and hopefulness. Find healing and hope through activities like guided meditations, exploration and discovery of strengths and resilience, movement and mobility, soothing sound baths, artistic endeavors, and more!