Category Community
6 things to do in Salem this week: Reading crisis Town Hall, Valentine’s markets, Eagles tribute concert
Events in Salem this week include the Salem Reporter Town Hall on the student reading crisis, four Valentine’s Day markets, an Eagles tribute band concert at the Elsinore, and more.
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COLUMN: Salem-area work centers see more job seekers
Salem is faring better than other Oregon cities in job growth, but economic uncertainty remains the order of the day, writes columnist Pamela Ferrara.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: A Town Hall on the student reading crisis — and how you can help
In just 90 minutes this week, you could leave inspired with real ways to help tackle a crisis hiding in plain sight: too many Salem-area elementary students are far behind in reading. Join Salem Reporter’s Town Hall – CRISIS: Student Reading – at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the Elsinore Theatre — free admission. Hear straight talk from local experts on what went wrong, what’s changing, and what you can do to be part of the solution.
“Madman” director heads Pentacle Theatre’s first play of the year
Pentacle Theatre’s first production of 2026, “You Can’t Take It With You” kicks off the evening of Friday, Jan. 30. The classic Broadway comedy, directed by a Jack of all trades, features two Maine Coon kittens alongside a cast of 19.
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COLUMN: Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team needs you
Mark Wardell, the leader of West Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, explains why and how you should get trained to aid your neighborhood in disaster.
COLUMN: Fewer Medicare Advantage plans offered in Marion, Polk counties
Jim Sellers, former Oregon journalist and state agency employee, writes a regular column to help thousands in Salem deal with the confusing world of Medicare and federal benefits. He's available to answer your questions.
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5 things to do in Salem this week: Clay workshop, open mic night, piano concert
Events in Salem this week include a $5 family clay workshop at the Willamette Art Center, a classical piano concert from the Oregon Symphony, an open mic night at the Grand Theatre and more.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: With our mayor’s debate set aside, what should we do instead?
Salem Reporter planned another mayoral debate like the one in 2024 but Mayor Julie Hoy didn’t respond, so it was canceled. Challenger Vanessa Nordyke agreed to participate, and Hoy later criticized the prior debate while still not confirming for this one. Now we’re weighing alternatives –and we want your ideas on the best forum for voters.
Historic Salem farmers market brings community together in lesser-known space
Founded during World War II, the Salem Public Market hosts 29 booths each Saturday selling local food and handmade goods.
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