Good morning, Salem.

Guadalupe 'Lupe' Peralta, a 21-year-old owner, opened First Round Boba and Crepes in Salem with an innovative dessert crepe called 'Sunny Delight' that blends fresh strawberries, bananas, Nutella and a house-made cream.

He plans to attract local customers now and may expand his menu — aiming for a new location in Portland.

The Salem-Keizer School Board voted Tuesday to extend Superintendent Andrea Castañeda's contract from 2025 to 2028—delegating Board Chair Cynthia Richardson to lead contract negotiations beginning July 1.

Board members praised her strong leadership and clear communication as she worked on managing the district's challenges.

Salem-Keizer School District Superintendent Andrea Castañeda said Gov. Tina Kotek’s school accountability plan relied on unproven methods and lacked the key details needed to help struggling schools—she voiced her concerns during a House Education Committee meeting on Monday.

The governor’s proposal, which pairs increased funding with plans for state coaching if goals are not met, received criticism from local educators who worry the measures may not drive real improvements.

On May 20, 2025, voters in Marion, Polk, Yamhill, and Linn counties will vote on a bond measure to improve career education, campus safety, and facility repairs at Chemeketa Community College.

If passed, the measure will use the same tax rate ($0.27 per $1,000 of assessed value) as the 2008 bond.

Oregon public schools will receive a record $76.8 million from the Common School Fund in 2025—each of the 197 districts gets funds based on student enrollment.

Governor Tina Kotek said rising costs and enrollment challenges have increased the need for this critical resource to support classrooms across the state.

On March 5, ODOT installed permanent fencing along Market Street under the I-5 overpass to stop homeless camping — the step aims to keep both unsheltered people and drivers safe.

Officials said more fencing on state land will be finished before July.

Oregon lawmakers are considering nearly doubling funding for a free tax preparation program that helps low-income families claim tax credits—if approved, extra funds will expand in-person services in rural and urban areas to meet rising demand.

Marion County judges will soon decide if overburdened public defenders can take on new cases — a change meant to lower the number of criminal defendants without legal representation.

Local defense leaders warn that forced assignments may lead to further delays and drive experienced attorneys away.

Salem police said Monday that the Community Police Academy is canceled for 2025 to reduce overtime costs and save about $20,000 amid the city's push to cut spending due to a $14 million budget deficit.

The department will wait for the new city council budget in June before deciding if programs like National Night Out can continue next fiscal year.

St. Patrick's Day Cocktail Celebration

Applebee's Grill + Bar invites guests to enjoy festive cocktails themed around St. Patrick's Day, featuring options like the Tipsy Leprechaun and the new Golden Goose, alongside non-alcoholic beverages for all ages.

Infant and Toddler Storytime at Salem Public Library

Youth Services staff will lead an engaging storytime session featuring stories, songs, and rhymes for children aged 0 to 2½ with their caregivers.

Mid-Valley Home Show 2025

The Mid-Valley Home Show features exhibits showcasing home improvement products and services, along with opportunities to interact with local experts in a family-friendly environment.

The Teacher Show: Stand-Up Comedy Night

This stand-up showcase features local comedians who are also teachers, sharing humorous insights on classroom dynamics.

Jordan World Circus Performance

The Jordan World Circus features thrilling performances suitable for all ages and is hosted at the Salem Armory Auditorium.

Crochet & Craft Evening for Teens

Teens are invited to bring their crochet, knitting, or fiber art projects to this free drop-in session for creativity and conversation at Salem Public Library.

Wire Wrapping Jewelry Class

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Learn the art of wire wrapping to create stunning jewelry pieces with personal flair.

Ladies’ Pool Time

1-3 p.m. — Center 50+ — $1 entry — Enjoy a friendly billiard session exclusive to women of all skill levels.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 AM — Salem Public Library — Free — Enjoy interactive stories, songs, and movement for young children and their caregivers.

Spring Craft and Vendor Show at Showbiz Salem 2025

The Showbiz Salem Spring Craft and Vendor Show will feature various vendors and craft booths at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem, Oregon.