Good morning, Salem.

Liberty House, Salem’s first child advocacy center, was founded 26 years ago so children would not have to repeat traumatic abuse stories — the center now gathers law enforcement, Child Protective Services, healthcare providers, and community partners to support children and their families. CEO Alison Kelley said the center also offers online tools and training programs to empower parents and schools and help prevent abuse.

Salem Police arrested a 38-year-old man on April 29 for setting off three improvised explosives outside a south Salem home—charging him with three counts each of reckless endangering and criminal mischief after explosions on April 23, April 25, and April 28.

Two South Salem High School graduates, Angelo Arredondo Baca and Jennifer Parker, are running for the Zone 3 seat on the Salem-Keizer School Board in an election on May 20 — the term will start July 1.

Baca is backed by union and progressive groups while Parker is supported by a conservative committee — both candidates focus on improving academics and school safety.

Seven school superintendents—including Andrea Castañeda of Salem-Keizer—released a video on Wednesday warning that federal cuts are hurting funding for preschool programs, food banks and Head Start programs vital to Oregon children and families.

They said these changes have strained local schools’ ability to support kids and urged the public to speak up to help protect critical resources.

Oregon education leaders say state schools already follow federal student privacy laws — federal officials demanded proof of compliance by April 30.

The state assured districts that federal funding will remain secure — Attorney General Dan Rayfield and Gov. Tina Kotek took steps to protect roughly $1.5 billion in annual funds.

A new report by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service shows that drought, insect pests, and tree diseases have hurt Oregon forests.

Data from last year's aerial survey reveal large non-wildfire damage in eastern areas — and experts stress that on-ground checks are needed for a full view of forest health.

Adobe restaurant offers fresh Latin flavors in downtown Salem with a menu crafted by co-owner Diego Sagastume and Chef Juan Morales that blends new tastes with family traditions.

The inviting space serves seasonal dishes and cocktails — like a Lavender Pisco Sour — using local ingredients to honor its cultural roots.

Marion County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale

May 2-3 — Columbia Hall — Free entry — Discover over 10,000 plants including vegetables, perennials, and special fuchsia baskets for Mother’s Day.

Awesome 3000

8 AM – 1 PM — McCulloch Stadium — Free entry — A long-standing youth event featuring exciting participation from Salem-Keizer and the surrounding areas.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons Concert

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Cost info not specified — Experience the vibrant classical charm of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performed by the Oregon Symphony.

Salem Saturday Market

4-9 p.m. — State of Oregon Green Lot — Free entry — Celebrate local craftsmanship with over 150 vendors offering handmade and homegrown treasures.

Mother's Day Brunch

11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Oregon Garden Resort — Pricing not specified — Delight in a festive brunch featuring brunch favorites and a visit to the serene botanical garden.

Crochet & Slay for Teens

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Craft, socialize, and explore fiber arts in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Mexico in the Heart 2025

5-9 p.m. — Gerry Frank Amphitheater — Free entry — Celebrate Mexican culture with lively music, delicious food, and vibrant traditions.

Free Beginner ESL Class

3 PM — Salem Public Library — Free entry — A welcoming atmosphere to learn English as a second language with multilingual instruction.

The Outer Realms Art Market

11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Downtown Salem — Free entry — Celebrate community with local artists, authors, and practitioners at this vibrant three-day art market.

Paint and Sip Experience

3-5 p.m. — Honky Tonk Bar & Grill — $35 per person — Unleash your creativity with a fun painting class while enjoying a drink.