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Your Friday evening update on Salem news

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Good evening, Salem.

A last-minute announcement just came from the city of Salem about its first Hispanic heritage festival on Saturday, Sept. 23.

Western University of Health Sciences Lebanon Oregon

Those who visit Viva Salem might recognize Los Angeles Sparks professional basketball player Evina Westbrook in attendance.

Westbrook grew up in Salem and graduated from South Salem High School.

“She is the first and only Mexican American to play in the WNBA. She has dual citizenship in the U.S. and Mexico and hopes to play for Mexico in the 2024 Paris Olympics,” according to a city Facebook post. “Evina loves giving to her community, especially her Latino community, and has offered to sign basketballs when people bring them to the event.”

Westbrook plans to attend the festival around noon.

Face painting and Mexican cowboy demonstrations will be among the activities at family-friendly city event, along with local and regional performers, vendors, artists and food.

The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater, Riverfront Park, with performances all day. More information is available on the city website.

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ATTEND THE TOWN HALL

A Town Hall open and free to the public will explore issues around Salem’s new wage tax. Salem Reporter is hosting the event Wednesday, Oct. 11, at the Elsinore Theatre. Voters will get a chance to decide whether the tax stays in November. 

Hear from supporters and opponents, get facts about city spending. Salem Reporter journalists will question panelists. GET YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE.

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