Good morning, Salem.

Salem food pantries—operated by Marion Polk Food Share—are preparing to serve more families after SNAP payments will not be issued on Nov.

1 due to a federal government shutdown. Leaders say that high demand, rising food prices, and nearly 17,000 monthly pantry visits have stretched local resources and may leave some families without enough food.

City officials locked Rudy’s Steakhouse out on April 15 because it owed nearly $89,000 and have repeatedly requested payment from owner Robert Kunke—none of which restored the balance.

The city said the downtown space will need months of repairs before it can be leased and reported that real estate agents have shown interest in a new restaurant venture—adding to ongoing efforts to return the space to the market.

Gilbert House Children’s Museum opened its new Science Lab exhibit today that gives young visitors five interactive stations—ranging from a microscope station to physics and chemistry tools—and an educator-led program from 1 to 2 p.m. local schools have shown interest in the program for upcoming field trips.

Marion County Fire District No. 1 will hold its first all-female promotional ceremony on Wednesday, November 12 at 3:30 p.m. at Station 1 on Cordon Road NE in Salem to celebrate the promotion of four EMS Lieutenants—marking a historic milestone for women in emergency services.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation reminds Salem businesses that Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights the need to update software, use strong passwords, and back up data to ward off cyber attacks—efforts that aim to protect sensitive information across sectors.

National guidelines from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency support these measures to help reduce risks from cybercrime.

Rising costs forced Back Line Real Estate to cancel plans to redevelop the former J.C.

Penney building on Liberty Street N.E. into a mixed-use hub—necessary upgrades made the $5 million deal too expensive and left one of downtown Salem’s key vacant properties without a clear future.

Flu Clinic at Lancaster Family Health Center

2-6 p.m. — Lancaster Family Health Center at Lancaster — No cost — Help fight off the flu with a timely in-and-out trip to the clinic.

Silver Falls 5K Trail Run

4:30-6 p.m. — Silver Falls State Park — Registration opens Aug 1, 2025 — Enjoy a spirited Halloween-themed trail run in one of the largest events of its kind in the west.

Salem For All! Variety Show

2-11:50 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Celebrate local talent as performers showcase meaningful cultural works hosted by Peter Bergel.

Latinas - Wine Tasting With Friends

1-3 p.m. — Cória Estates — $56 — Enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience at a family-owned vineyard in Salem, Oregon.

Childbirth Education Series

6-9 p.m. — Community Health Education Center — $90 — Gain essential skills for labor, delivery, and postpartum care through this informative four-week series.

Lancaster Family Health Center Flu Clinic

2-6 p.m. — Lancaster Family Health Center at Lancaster — Free service — Help fight off the flu with a timely in-and-out trip to the clinic.

Indoor Winter Market at Wavra Farms

10 AM – 3 PM — Wavra Farms & Nursery — Free entry — Explore local vendors and enjoy a cozy market atmosphere this winter season.

Malderine Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Oregon Garden Resort — Dinner and drinks available — Enjoy a captivating evening with Malderine's blend of haunting melodies and favorite tunes.

Lancaster Family Health Center Flu Clinic

2-6 p.m. — Lancaster Family Health Center at Lancaster — No cost — Help fight off the flu with a timely in-and-out trip to the clinic.

Beginning Charcoal Drawing Class

10 AM – 2 PM — McMinnville Senior Center — All materials included — Discover the expressive world of charcoal in a laid-back, beginner-friendly class.

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!