🌮 New Pizza out South, More Money for the Airport, and Levy Mania Continues

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So much going on in Salem right now! It’s hard to keep up, but here are a few updates to help you stay in the loop…

🍕 New Food Options Out South

South Salem has a couple of new restaurants to try out this week. First Round Boba and Crepes opened up next to Tony’s Tacos on South Liberty, and Crazy Dough opened in the same parking lot as Northern Lights and Bo & Vine. Crazy Dough is in the old Donatello’s location. The section of the space with video games remains closed, but I’m told the building owners are in talks with a potential operator to reopen it.

✈️ Airport Funding Adjustment Approved

The council approved a $516,000 budget adjustment to cover the minimum revenue guarantee agreement with Avelo Airlines. This funding, sourced from federal grants and local contributions, ensures the airline receives a minimum revenue threshold for operating in Salem. Councilors Paul Tigan (Ward 1) and Micki Varney (Ward 8) raised questions about the long-term financial risks if federal grant funding is reduced or eliminated, which could shift the cost burden to the city.

🏠 Affordable Housing Developments Near Completion

The Orchard Park Apartments rehabilitation project is nearing completion, ensuring that more than 200 affordable housing units remain available in Salem. Additionally, the South Fair Apartments' accessible 1-bedroom waitlist will open on March 8, providing a rare opportunity for residents seeking accessible housing.

🚓 Police Chief Addresses Immigration Policy

Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack reaffirmed Oregon’s sanctuary state laws, emphasizing that local law enforcement does not participate in federal immigration enforcement efforts. He directed residents to the Oregon Department of Justice’s Sanctuary Promise Act webpage for further information.

💰 Livability Levy Debate Intensifies

Public testimony reflected divided opinions on the Community Services and Livability Local Option Levy, a proposed measure to fund parks, libraries, and senior services. Supporters argued that the levy is essential to maintaining community resources, while opponents, including some local business owners, questioned whether the measure has enough public support to pass in May.

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Thank you all for being here! Now let’s see whats going on in Salem this week…

What's inside:

• Our brand new events calendar is LIVE (It’s a work in progress, but we are excited to get started.)

• Mardi Gras in Salem!

• Itching to dance? Need to learn some moves? We got you covered.

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

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Community Updates

Rent growth slowing in Salem as more apartments open

Average apartment rents in Salem grew only slightly last year, rising just 1.2% to $1,400, as over 1,000 new units were added to the market. Developers are facing challenges with higher interest rates and utility delays, while home prices remain high at a median of $443,000, keeping many homeowners from selling. Industrial development continues to thrive, but Salem faces a shortage of land for future large-scale projects. Data centers are emerging as a potential economic driver, offering significant tax revenue despite creating few jobs.

More details on housing trends, industrial growth, and economic outlook are available in the full Salem Reporter article.

Geer skate park construction to begin in March

Construction on Geer Park’s new 20,000-square-foot skate park begins in March and is expected to be completed by October. The $4.64 million project, funded through public bonds, developer charges, and a $500,000 grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, is part of a larger effort to enhance recreation in east Salem. In addition to the skate park, improvements include a paved pathway, picnic shelter, drinking fountains, and a small plaza with native plants. The existing soccer and baseball fields will also be renovated, creating a more inclusive and accessible space for the community. (The Collegian)

Mardi Gras Ball | February 28

Noble Wave • 9:30PM - 1:00AM

Get ready for a night of New Orleans-style brass, dancing, and festive flair, complete with a Second Line walking parade and plenty of Mardi Gras beads. Enjoy a special cocktail menu, late-night bites, and dress in your funkiest purple, green, and gold attire for the celebration!

Oscar Bait: An Improv Show All About the Movies | February 28

Infinity Room • 9:30PM

Women’s Health Talk With Providers | March 8

Salem Health CHEC • 1:00PM - 2:00PM

Men Next Door: A Girls' Night Out! | February 28

Historic Grand Theatre • 9:00PM - 11:00PM

⚾College Baseball: Willamette Bearcats vs. Pacific | February 28

Volcanoes Stadium • 3:00PM - 8:00PM

Baseball is BACK! Join the Bearcats for their first home double header.

Salem Saturday Market Returns! | March 1

Summer St and Marion St • 9:00AM - 2:00PM

Spring Into Love Pet Adoption Event | March 1

Nature’s Pet Market • 11:00AM - 3:00PM

Salsa Lessons | March 1

VFW Marion Post 661 • 1:00PM - 5:00PM

YMCA Signature Event: 80's Nostalgia | March 1

YMCA Withnell Branch • 5:00PM

Be sure to join for the AFTER PARTY at Taproot Lounge & Cafe at 9:00PM!

🏀Salem Capitals vs. Vancouver Volcanoes | March 1

The Salem Armory • 6:30PM

The home opener for Salem’s official professional basketball team.

🚗Salem Roadster Show | March 1 - 2

State Fairgrounds • 9:00AM - 5:00PM

MicroMania Midget Wrestling | March 2

HonkyTonk Bar & Grill • 5:00PM - 9:00PM

💃Bachata Night | March 2

Fork Forty • Lessons 6:30PM • Dance 7:30PM

Mardi Gras at the Masquerade | March 4

Chemeketa Eola Event Center • 5:30PM - 9:00PM

Mayor's State of the City Address | March 5

Salem Convention Center • 11:15AM - 1:00PM

An Inside Look at May Election Ballot Initiatives | March 6

Salem Area Chamber of Commerce • 7:00PM - 10:00PM

Hear detailed presentations on the Chemeketa Community College Bond and City of Salem Livability Levy, both appearing on the May 2025 ballot.

Swing Dancing Night | March 7

Santiam Brewing, The BAD Space • 7:00AM - 8:30AM

🍽️ RESTAURANT OF THE WEEK

Frida’s is a newly opened, locally owned Mexican restaurant, offering a fresh take on traditional flavors in a lively and eclectic atmosphere. From the team behind Casa Amigos and Los Dos Amigos, Frida’s delivers inventive drinks, a vibrant interior filled with greenery and floral décor, and a striking mural of Frida Kahlo greeting guests at the door. Margarita lovers will appreciate their creative cocktail selection, including a margarita flight. A perfect spot for Salem foodies looking for something beyond the usual, this is a destination for great food, strong drinks, and a lively atmosphere.

• Must try: Fish Tacos, Oscar’s Special, Classic Margarita

• Price range: $$

• Location: 2840 Commercial St SE

• Hours: Every day 11:00AM - 10:00PM

💝 NON-PROFIT OF THE WEEK

Easterseals Oregon is a life-changing nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who face barriers such as language or economic hardship. Through their employment programs, Easterseals helps individuals build resumes, prepare for interviews, and navigate the job market, fostering confidence and self-sufficiency. Their housing assistance has provided safe shelter for homeless veteran families, while educational programs—including ESL, computer classes, and paid training for seniors—help participants develop valuable skills. With a mission to ensure inclusion, independence, and opportunity, Easterseals Oregon offers free, customized support, helping people overcome obstacles and achieve success in their personal and professional lives.

• How to help: Make a monetary donation or support through customer recommendations via Fred Meyer Rewards and AmazonSmile. More info here.

• Location: 3878 Beverly Ave NE Building H, Suite 5

• Contact: 503-364-6642

• Learn more: https://www.easterseals.com/oregon/

Clink is Hiring!

Clink! is a French-American bar and bistro opening in June 2025 in Salem, Oregon. We focus on delivering a sophisticated dining experience with a seasonal menu that complements our mocktails and cocktails. We’re seeking a creative and detail-oriented Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and develop Clink!’s signature menu for our primarily female guests.

Click below to learn more about each role:

• 👩‍🍳 - Executive Chef

• 🗣 - General Manager

Do you have positions you need to fill in your business? We can help.

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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