Good morning, Salem.

Nonprofits in the Mid-Willamette Valley are set to receive community grants as OCF awards $5.1 million to 260 organizations, with key benefits in Salem, Stayton, Woodburn, and Dallas focused on housing, refugee services, and education.

Applications are open until January 13, and awards will be announced in May (2026).

A Wind Advisory was in effect from 7 a.m. Monday until 4 a.m. Tuesday (gusts reached 35–45 mph) in Marion and Polk counties, raising concerns about downed trees and scattered power outages.

Birdwatchers gathered at Geer Park on Saturday morning, Dec.

6 and logged 22 species including a yellow rumped warbler and red-tailed hawks. Audubon Society members Tim Johnson and Mike Unger led the session, which marked the closing event for Salem’s birdwatch tours that began in the spring.

The Center Street Bridge seismic retrofit will begin in spring 2026 and continue until 2030 — the project involves dual lane closures for about six months, removal and replanting of 120 trees, and temporary ramp and parking closures near Riverfront Park and Wallace Marine Park.

Salem residents are invited to an open house tomorrow from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Court Street Christian Church to learn about the upcoming State Street Improvement Project, which will redesign State Street between 12th and 17th with narrower lanes, wider sidewalks + improved bike lanes and crossings.

A new state law effective Jan.

1 requires private insurance to cover prenatal and postpartum doula services, expands Medicaid coverage for lactation consultants, and allocates $1 million in grants—professionals warn that resolving billing delays is crucial for sustaining care.

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.

Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-12:30 a.m. — The Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center — $31.95 — Experience the enchanting sound of Christmas classics performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

End of the Year Art Mixer

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Salem on the Edge Art Gallery — Free entry — Celebrate the year's end in a vibrant local art space with community camaraderie.

Holiday Party and White Elephant Gift Exchange

6-8:30 p.m. — Cascadia Pizza Co. — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with pizza, joy, and a fun gift exchange.