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This is a big week for us at What’s Happening Salem.

Not only do we have our Documentary Premier happening next Weds at the Grand Theater, we also have our FREE monthly creator meetup happening on Monday.

Would love to see you at one of them.

Really grateful to have amazing people around helping make it all happen.

Thank you all for being here and supporting the ride!

What's inside:

• 🌮 What’s Happening Salem Documentary Premier!!

• Lot’s of Love - Your Guide to Valentine’s Day in Salem

• Coffee, Dinosaurs, and Football (Oh My!)

And much more. Let's explore what's happening, Salem!

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Infrastructure & Development

City Seeking Local Contractors for 2025 Construction Season

Salem’s 2025 construction season begins in February, with projects funded by the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond and other sources. Contractors can bid on street improvements, bridge rehab, sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, parks, water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. Upcoming bids include sewer repairs, bridge strengthening, athletic court upgrades, and downtown streetscape improvements. To date, $20.6 million from the bond has been awarded, with 70% going to local contractors. More projects will be available throughout the year.

Find a detailed timeline on the City of Salem newsletter.

Three New Restaurants Coming to Salem This Year

Salem's food scene is expanding with several exciting new openings this year. First Round Boba and Crepes is bringing sweet treats to South Salem, though its grand opening date is still pending. Adobe Restaurant and Bar, from the owners of El Ranchero Market, will serve Latin American dishes and craft cocktails in downtown Salem. Cherry City Bagels will fill the city's bagel gap with housemade options at Beehive Station.

For more details, read the full article from Statesman Journal here.

Infinity Room to Close in June

Infinity Room, a downtown Salem entertainment staple, will close on June 21 after four years of hosting live music, comedy, and events. The venue's co-owners cited personal strain, financial challenges, and rising costs as key reasons for shutting down. Despite past community fundraising efforts, sustaining operations proved difficult. The owners plan to go out with a celebration during Make Music Salem, and they are seeking a buyer who will continue supporting the arts in the space. (Salem Reporter)

Community

What to know about Willamette Valley wild turkeys and bird flu

Wild turkeys can get avian flu, along with chickens, ducks, geese, hawks, and even mammals like cats, dairy cows, and humans. The dangerous strain, H5N1 (HPAI), has been found in wild turkey flocks in Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota, with one known outbreak in Oregon. ODFW advises against feeding turkeys, as large flocks increase disease risk and aggressive behavior. The virus spreads through wetlands, pond water, and bird feces, surviving in cool freshwater but killed by heat and salt water. Precautionary measures include disinfecting surfaces, clothing, and boots with bleach or alcohol, especially during waterfowl hunting season.

For more information and resources, read the full Salem Reporter column here.

Marryin’ County

Celebrate love and Oregon’s 166th birthday this Valentine’s Day with special wedding ceremonies in Marion County! Judge Justin Kidd will officiate weddings all day on Friday, Feb. 14, offering joyful, affordable ceremonies for couples of all backgrounds. Marion County will feature a decorated courtroom, free cupcakes, a loaner bouquet, and the Wedding March. (Clackamas County)

Marriage licenses and appointments are available now — call 503-576-7200 to reserve your spot! 

🌮 Barriers to Bridges: Documentary Premier | February 12

Historic Grand Theatre • 5:30PM - 8:00PM

What’s Happening Salem invites the community to the premiere of Barriers to Bridges: A Discussion About Salem’s Unhoused. This original documentary delves into Salem’s housing crisis, exploring challenges and potential solutions from multiple perspectives to inspire local action. Join us for this important evening of awareness, discussion, and action as we work together to build solutions for Salem’s unhoused.

Featuring a post-screening panel discussion featuring key leaders in housing and policy.

Pitch Your (Single) Friend | February 8

Xicha Brewing North • 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Pitch Your Friend offers a lighthearted and entertaining way to celebrate single friends. Participants can showcase their amazing friends in a fun 3-5 minute spotlight while enjoying an evening filled with laughter, entertainment, and potential matches.

A lively and social event designed to bring people together.

Booklover's Burlesque: Erotica Edition | February 8

Historic Grand Theatre • 7:00PM - 8:45PM

Booklover’s Burlesque brings its signature blend of literature and sensual performance to Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre for a special edition just in time for the sexiest season of the year. This unique literary salon pairs dramatic readings of poetry, fiction, memoir, and more with burlesque, boylesque, and draglesque performances inspired by the text.

Los Tucanes de Tijuana | February 14

State Fairgrounds • 8:00PM

Get ready for an electrifying night as Los Tucanes de Tijuana bring their iconic sound to the stage! Known for their high-energy performances and chart-topping hits, this legendary group delivers an unforgettable show filled with norteño, corridos, and fan-favorite anthems.

Super Bowl LIX Watch Parties 

February 9 • 3:00PM

Looking for a spot to catch Super Bowl LIX? Check out watch parties at Xicha Brewing North, Salem Alliance Church, Tiki Lounge Lancaster, Corner Pocket Bar & Grill, and Reed Opera House. And if you’re up for more fun after the game, Side Hustle is hosting an after-party at 9:00 PM. Know of any other great places showing the game? Let us know! 🏈🎉

🍽️ RESTAURANT OF THE WEEK

Isaac’s Coffee is more than just a place to grab a great meal—it’s a space built on community, purpose, and second chances. As an extension of the nonprofit Isaac’s Room, this welcoming café and event space provides divested youth with mentorship, job training, and a sense of belonging. Every cup of coffee and every dish served is part of a larger mission to restore dignity and self-sufficiency to young people while fostering a stronger, more engaged community. Whether you stop in for a bite or book a private event, you’re not just supporting a local business—you’re investing in the future of Salem’s youth. Step into the story at Isaac’s and experience the impact firsthand.

• Must try: Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Farmhouse Sandwich, Brown Sugar Bourbon

• Price range: $-$$

• Location: 201 Commercial St NE

• Hours: Open Daily 7:00AM - 7:00PM

💝 NON-PROFIT OF THE WEEK

Radness Ensues is more than just a community space—it’s a movement to bring creativity, connection, and healing to Salem. Founded by Becka Brisbin of Becka Makes Buttons, this all-ages hub provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where art, music, and community support come together under one roof. Whether it’s through hands-on classes, youth programs, peer support groups, or a vibrant gift and beverage shop, Radness Ensues is dedicated to empowering young people and fostering a sense of belonging. With a strong commitment to accessibility and trauma-informed care, this collective is on a mission to break cycles of poverty, uplift local artists, and provide a safe, sober space for all. Help bring this vision to life by supporting their programs, internships, and community initiatives—because when creativity thrives, Radness Ensues!

• How to help: Make a monetary donation or purchase an item from the Amazon Wishlist 

• Location: 3837 River Rd N, Keizer

• Contact: 971-304-7491 or [email protected]

• Learn more: https://www.radnessensues.org/

🏠 SALEM'S TOP SALE OF THE WEEK

2945 NW Skyline Dr

This one is in Corvallis, but it was the biggest sale in the area. It’s got a workout room and a film screening room. Plus with a covered upper deck and 5 bathrooms, this is dream home for someone who likes to bring people together.

Congrats to everyone who got this deal done and the new family moving in.

The Physical Therapy Project

The PT Project delivers personalized, evidence-based care from certified Physical Therapists—not assistants. They focus on your goals, using advanced treatments and technology to speed recovery, prevent injuries, and keep you active—whether for daily life, sports, or big fitness goals.

Discount: 10% off your visit
Code: WHS10
Usage: Use the code during checkout to get the discount.

Interested in offering a discount in the future? Send me an email at [email protected] and let me know what discount you’d like to offer to our audience.

Interested in connecting with our audience and supporting the growth of this publication? Email our relationship expert, [email protected]

Thanks for keeping up with Salem this week!

Spotted something interesting in town? Drop us a note at [email protected] We love hearing from you.

See you next Thursday,

Ernie