Good morning, Salem.

Salem Reporter will adjust its coverage based on feedback from over 600 local readers, who rated local government, events, medical care, schools and housing as top priorities.

Editor Les Zaitz announced plans to boost accountability reporting (including new beats on Salem Health and schools) to better serve the community.

Marion Polk Food Share recorded 20,000 visits in October amid SNAP delays as community donations and food drives surged to help families get meals.

A benefit concert is set for Sunday, Dec. 14 at Santiam Brewing’s BAD Space — each ticket providing meals for those in need.

Following a federal order on Dec.

4, flags at public buildings and military sites in Oregon were flown at half-staff to honor Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom who died after an ambush. The order specified that the display would end with sunset.

Oregon Medical Centers provides integrated care for pain relief with services including chiropractic, physical therapy, and non-invasive treatments at its Salem and Aloha clinics (complimentary consultations are available for new patients).

More than one million bags of shredded cheese were recalled after the FDA found possible metal fragments in products sold in local stores since October — Oregon residents are advised to return or discard any affected cheese, as recalled items have been removed.

Anglers can fish for trout during the reservoir's deep drawdown, with opportunities available in November and December (check current water levels) at Lookout Point Reservoir.

Cartwright Apartments recently opened south of downtown Salem and residents can take a tour + view its modern living spaces.

Holiday Author Meet & Greet

1-4 p.m. — Barnes & Noble — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays with signed copies of the Alex McKenna series featuring ghosts, witches, and paranormal adventures.

72nd Annual SnoBall

72nd Annual Teen dance at Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion. The only dance that is inclusive of all high school and home schooled students.

GLOW Christmas Light Adventure

4:45-9 p.m. — Volcanoes Stadium — Admission starting at $14.99 — Experience a magical landscape with over a million lights and festive activities for the whole family.

Oregon Total Worker Health Alliance Share and Connect

6-10 p.m. — 400 High St SE, Salem, OR — Lunch provided — Network, learn, and collaborate on best practices for workplace health and safety.

Sonic Journey Meditation Experience

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting House — $20-40 sliding scale — Experience profound relaxation and mindfulness through immersive sound meditation with gongs and crystal singing bowls.

December Paint & Sip Night

6-8 p.m. — Vortex Eatery & Taphouse — Full menu available — Enjoy an evening of creativity with drinks and painting in a relaxed setting.

Santa Baby Holiday Networking Event 2025

5:30-11:59 p.m. — Center 50+ — Free entry — Get ready to jingle and mingle at a festive night of connections and cheer for local businesses.

High Risk Driver Course

6-10 p.m. — Salem Hospital, Building D — Court-mandated attendance — Complete the required class for high risk drivers to avoid penalties.

Lancaster Family Health Center Flu Clinic

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

Private Visit & Photos with Santa

8:10-8:15 p.m. — Salem Riverfront Carousel — $30 reservation fee — Experience a magical holiday moment with Santa and capture keepsake photos.

Brooks Ugly Sweater Party

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Brooks Wine — Food and wine available for purchase — Flaunt your favorite ugly sweater for a chance to win a $50 gift card.