Nothing warms the soul on a cold day like a steaming bowl of pho—Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich, aromatic broth and hearty ingredients. The Salem, Oregon area is home to several fantastic spots where you can enjoy this delicious dish! Here's a basic guide to some of the best local restaurants offering heartwarming pho. Kim Huong Located on Silverton Rd NE, Kim Huong is all about authenticity. Their pho is both fragrant and flavorful, complemented by perfectly cooked rice noodles and fresh toppings. They also have a full menu of other Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kirstie Bingham …

Join Valor Mentoring's Bowling FUNdraiser! Have fun while raising money to help provide needed mentoring for youth in our community. Purchase a lane for 4 people to compete and raise money for mentoring. Comes with a pizza for your team and the chance to win some great prizes! Room for a few more teams! REGISTER TODAY! Date: Wed. January 24. 2024Time: 6 PM - 9 PMCost: $500 per team For more information and to register your team go to: valormentoring.com/knock-down-to-lift-up …

It's going to be a cold one in Salem this weekend! As we brace for uncharacteristically cold weather from an incoming winter storm, our community's warmth continues to shine through the local events that are planned. While we encourage everyone to get involved in the local happenings, your safety is the number one priority during this inclement weather. Please stay safe, stay home if necessary, and stay informed about event updates or cancellations from the event organizers. 2024 Mid-Valley Home Show The 46th Annual Mid-Valley Home Show, renowned as the oldest, largest, and most well-attended home show in the Mid-Willamette Valley, is set to make its return January 12-14, 2024. This event is the perfect opportunity for homeowner…

Winter is in full swing in the northern hemisphere, and with it comes the possibility of winter storms and cold snaps. Such sudden drops in temperature can sneak up on people who are unprepared. However, by being proactive, you can take steps to make sure your living space remains safe and warm throughout the frosty season. This basic guide provides tips for both homeowners and renters to effectively prepare for the challenges of a storm or cold snap, including the real possibility of power outages. Check Insulation Proper insulation is key during the winter. Check your attic, walls, and floors—especially those adjacent to an unheated space like a garage. Good insulation can significantly reduce heating costs and keep your home war…

With its beginnings in the heart of Salem, Oregon, Mimi and Little Bean's Children's Boutique is a testament to the power of dreams and community support. Owned by Jen and her daughter, Mck, this charming boutique grew to become a beloved local establishment and is now an online store providing unique products and fostering strong relationships within the community. A Dream Realized Jen's journey to entrepreneurship is an inspiring one. Having spent nearly three decades in the affordable housing industry, she dedicated herself to her career, climbing the ranks from a compliance officer to overseeing the compliance department. But in 2020, a significant event shook her world. Her daughter, married to a Marine, gave birth to her gr…

Tires are a critical component of your vehicle, ensuring safety, performance, and comfort. However, like most other car parts, they wear down over time and need replacing. It's important to be able to recognize when it's time for a new set. Here are key factors and tips to consider when checking your own tires. Tread Depth The most obvious sign that your tires need replacing is the tread depth. The legal limit for tread depth in most states is 2/32 inches. An easy way to check your tread is by doing the penny test. Insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln's head upside down—if all of Lincoln's head is visible, it's time for a new set of tires. Age of Tires Even if the tread is not worn down, tires should be replaced ar…

With the beginning of a new year, many of us are looking to adopt healthier habits. One simple yet impactful change could be in how we wake up each morning! The pull of the snooze button is strong, but hitting it for those "just five more minutes" can actually disrupt your sleep cycle more than it helps. Let's dive into why it's better to resist the temptation of the snooze button and explore tips to make waking up easier. Why Is Snoozing Not Beneficial? Contrary to popular belief, those extra minutes of sleep gained by hitting the snooze button don't typically contribute to feeling more rested. In fact, they can disrupt your natural sleep rhythm, leave your body confused, and make waking up even harder. Although it's tempting to…

One of the most crucial aspects of a successful digital ad campaign is the ability to generate high-quality leads. High-quality leads are individuals who are more likely to convert into paying customers, leading to significant revenue growth for your business. To effectively capture high-quality leads, it is essential to implement proven methods that target the right audience, craft compelling ad copy, and utilize landing pages effectively. By following these strategies, businesses can significantly improve their lead generation efforts and achieve their marketing goals. Target Your Audience Effectively The foundation of generating high-quality leads lies in effectively targeting your ads to reach the right individuals. This i…

As we step into a brand new year full of promise and potential, Salem, Oregon is already buzzing with local events to kick off 2024. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, our community welcomes you to join in the fun and make the most of what our city has to offer this year. National Whip Cream Day at The Fussy Duck Celebrate National Whip Cream Day at The Fussy Duck! They'll be offering delicious whip cream toppings for hot chocolate and vanilla wafers from 5 PM to 8 PM. Plus, enjoy live music by Ethan Stacy from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Come in for a sweet treat, one-of-a-kind finds, and some great tunes! Date: January 5, 2024Time:  5:00 PM – 8:00 PMLocation: The Fussy Duck // 3170 Commercial St SE, Salem, ORCost: FREE …

How Matthew developed his love of smoking meat Miller's BBQ in Salem Oregon is owned and led by passionate chef, Matthew Miller. From its humble beginning back in April of 2022, Miller's BBQ has grown steadily since and has been making a mark in the local community. Miller leads by example and is known for his huge heart, engaging smile, and high class catered BBQ for events and special occasions. When asked how he got his start smoking meat, Matthew chuckled and said that he learned to smoke meat when he and his wife, Janita, worked as the caretakers at Drift Creek Camp, a small Christian camp located in the Coast Range Mountains just outside of Lincoln City, OR soon after they were married. Matthew said, "We accepted t…

Welcome the new year by ensuring your home is in top shape! January is the perfect time for homeowners and long-term renters to tackle important maintenance tasks (or to-do list items that keep getting pushed to the back burner). From smoke detector batteries to home organization, these tasks will help you make sure your home is safe, efficient, and comfortable going into the new year. 1. Test and Replace Batteries in Safety Devices Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed. Also, if you have a fire extinguisher, check its expiration date and replace if necessary. Most fire extinguishers are recommended to be replaced every 10-12 years. 2. Replace Various Filters If it's been a while, don't …

As we welcome the New Year, it's the perfect time to prioritize self-care and wellness. From massage to the great outdoors, Salem, Oregon, has a wealth of ways to help you relax, rejuvenate, and start 2024 off on the right foot. Here are just a few of our favorite ideas! Massage: Unwind and Recharge Massage has many benefits, including relaxation and healing. In Salem, there are many great local businesses that offer different kinds of massage for what you need. Snyder Massage's Tracy Snyder skillfully eases tension and fosters healing with services like Swedish massage, craniosacral therapy, Shiatsu massage, and lymph drainage. La Lumiere Massage has multiple talented massage therapists who specialize in various treatments that help…

As the New Year approaches, it's a time of reflection and forward-thinking. Setting goals is a common tradition for many people, but the key to achieving those goals in the New Year lies in making them realistic and attainable. Let's explore a few tips for setting achievable goals for the upcoming year. Understanding Realistic Goals Realistic goals are most often measurable and achievable. They should stretch your abilities but remain possible. This is not to say that audacious goals are not important—but they often exist for a different purpose. To set realistic goals, consider your current situation, resources, and limitations. Consider where you would like to be physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually in one year's tim…

As 2023 comes to a close, Salem, OR, is gearing up for New Year's weekend with exciting events for everyone. Join the community in celebrating the end of one year and the beginning of another with fun activities across the city. Open Mic Night at RiverCity Rock Star Academy Head over to Open Mic Night at RiverCity Rock Star Academy's Garage Stage, happening on the last Friday of every month! The event is split into two parts: solo musicians and duets are invited to perform from 7 - 8 PM, then full bands can take the stage from 8 - 9 PM for a lively jam session. This event is free and open to everyone. Feel free to register in advance on their website or simply come by and join in the fun. Date: December 29, 2023Time:  7…

In today's fiercely competitive business landscape, small businesses often grapple with the challenge of limited advertising budgets. Yet, with the right strategies, small businesses can create winning ad campaigns that yield remarkable results without incurring excessive costs. Let's delve into five highly effective and budget-conscious strategies that empower small businesses to maximize their advertising impact, connect with their target audience, and achieve success in the digital era. The ever-evolving digital marketing landscape has transformed the way businesses reach and engage their audiences. This transformation brings both challenges and opportunities for small businesses aiming to make the most of their advertising budge…

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to protect the safety of your home while you're away. Whether you're a homeowner or a renter, taking proactive steps to secure your residence can give you peace of mind during your trip. Here are some effective tips to keep your home safe. 1. Make Your Home Look Lived In One of the best deterrents to potential burglars is making it appear that someone is still home. You can achieve this by: Using timers on lights or smart bulbs to turn them on and off at regular intervals. Asking a friend or neighbor to collect your mail and newspapers, or pausing these services during your trip. Leaving a car in the driveway, if possible. 2. Strengthen Your Home's Security B…

Embarking on a new job search can often feel like a daunting and challenging endeavor. You might find yourself investing countless hours looking at job sites, applying to roles that don't quite match your qualifications, or getting the impression that there simply aren't any suitable positions available. However, before you start questioning your capabilities or consider giving up, take a moment to review these tips to empower your job search journey. Establish Clear Objectives Start your job hunt with specific objectives in mind. These could range from daily goals like applying to a certain number of jobs per day to broader goals such as defining the key attributes you seek in your ideal role. Consider jotting down these objectives …

'Tis the season to be jolly in Salem, Oregon! This special time of year brings an extra sparkle to Salem, with a variety of events that capture the magic of the season. Join us as we unwrap a list of local events and activities happening this weekend. Magic at the Mill Join the Willamette Heritage Center for "Magic at the Mill," a festive event illuminating the winter evenings with thousands of lights. This annual celebration, running from December 19th to 23rd between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM, brings together the community to enjoy the holiday spirit and learn about Mid-Willamette Valley history. Each night is capped at 1,000 guests, so don't wait to buy tickets for this magical event! Date: December 19 - 23, 2023Time:  5…

December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As the holiday season brings celebrations, it's important to remember the responsibility we all share in keeping our roads safe. The Stark Reality Each year in the United States, thousands of lives are tragically lost due to drunk and/or drugged driving. These aren't just numbers; they represent families torn apart, dreams unfulfilled, and communities impacted. Driving under the influence is not only a legal offense but a serious threat to public safety. Understanding the Risks Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and motor skills, making driving an extrem…

The holidays in Salem, Oregon, are a time of enchantment and wonder, especially when it comes to the dazzling light displays throughout the area. From drive-through experiences to festive park setups, there's several great places to view holiday lights. Here's a guide to the best displays in and around Salem this 2023 season. Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Powerland Heritage Park, a 62-acre campus with 14 museums near Salem, Oregon, is hosting the "Holiday Sparkles at Powerland" event! On December 22 - 23 from 5 - 8 PM, this spectacular drive-thru holiday light experience is set to dazzle visitors with its array of twinkling lights and festive decorations. Immerse yourself in a world of shimmering lights and festive scenes, all from t…

As winter wraps our neighborhoods in its chilly embrace, it's easy for homes to look a bit dreary. Whether you're prepping to sell or just wanting to spruce up your home's appearance, boosting your home's curb appeal during the colder months can be more attainable than it seems. Here are a few simple yet effective ways to make your house stand out and feel welcoming, even in winter. 1. Light It Up Shorter days and longer nights call for extra lighting. Consider illuminating your walkways and entrance with warm path lights! Solar-powered or LED path lights not only enhance safety but also add a magical touch to your home's exterior. You could also add string lights between trees, around the porch if you have one, or along the roo…

For business owners, especially those juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, finding the time to manage all aspects of their marketing efforts can be an uphill battle. This is where marketing automation comes in as a game-changer, offering a lifeline for time-strapped business owners to streamline their marketing processes, enhance efficiency, and achieve their business goals. Marketing automation is the utilization of technology to automate repetitive marketing tasks, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively. It encompasses a wide range of tools and strategies that can automate various aspects of marketing, from email marketing and social media management to lead nurturing and customer relationship managem…