Good morning, Salem.

Salem leaders held violence intervention call-in meetings on April 23 with six high-risk teenagers to provide job, education, and support resources.

Community organizations, local employers and law enforcement worked together and plan another session in August.

Subatomic Toys, which opened in December 2025, now showcases vintage toys from the 1930s to the early 2000s at 1910 Commercial St. SE.

The shop (formerly a dry cleaners and KFC) features bright, curated displays that attract both collectors and kids today.

Salem artist Debbie Bowen turned a neighbor's advice into a passion for teaching watercolors, colored pencils, and pastels.

The award-winning artist now mentors her granddaughter and works with the Keizer Art Association to inspire local art enthusiasts.

In May, Salem galleries & museums will host art exhibits including local photography, a display on Japanese internment at the Willamette Heritage Center, a Jewish heritage showcase at the Salem Art Association, and the annual Keizer Riverwalk Art Fair at Chemawa Road N.

PUC, PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power are urging Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season as an unusually dry winter may prompt early, intense fires.

Residents can follow safety guidelines and build outage kits by checking resources at wildfire.oregon.gov.

Oregon lawmakers expressed worry after meeting with federal wildfire officials on Wednesday, May 6, citing staff cuts and resource shortfalls that may hamper response efforts this fire season.

They noted that some agencies lost many employees (including certified firefighters) amid budget cuts.

Northbound lanes on I-5 shifted at the Aurora-Donald Interchange last night at 8 p.m. as crews moved barriers for bridge updates; ODOT said the lane shift finished by 8 a.m. today and single-lane closures for paving will run through the week — southbound lanes remain open.

Pacific Power filed a rate case with the Oregon Public Utility Commission proposing stable bills in 2026 and lower rates in early 2027 while delaying a small rate increase until July; interim rates take effect June 5 as regulators review the plan (designed to address rising costs with grid investments).

Schreiner's Iris Festival

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. — Schreiner's Gardens — Admission fee applies — Experience the breathtaking beauty of blooming irises in a stunning springtime festival.

Joy in the Journey Resource Fair

10 AM - 5 PM — Salem's Riverfront Carousel — Free entry — Celebrate Children's Mental Health Acceptance with resources, activities, and free carousel rides.

Mother's Day Brunch

11 AM - 2 PM — The Farm On Golden Hill — Reservations required — Celebrate Mom with a delightful brunch and bubbles in a beautiful setting.

Sonic Journey Sound Meditation

7-8:45 p.m. — Salem Friends Meeting — $20-40 sliding scale — Experience profound relaxation and connection through immersive sound meditation with gongs and singing bowls.

10th Annual Run 2 Remember

9:25 – 11:00 AM — Riverfront City Park — Open to all ages — Engage in a memorable community run/walk event to honor and remember.

North East Salem Community Association Meeting

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jory Apartments — Accessible entry — Engage with your neighbors to strengthen community ties and voice local concerns.

Paint N' Pints at Willamette Valley Smokehouse

6-8 p.m. — Willamette Valley Smokehouse — Food and beverages available for purchase — Unleash your creativity during a fun painting class with delicious food and brews.

Infant/Toddler Storytime

11:00-11:20 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free — Delight in stories, songs, and rhymes perfect for little ones up to 2 ½ years old.

4th Annual Autism Walk

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Riverfront City Park — Free entry — Celebrate and support Autistic individuals at this family-friendly event in Salem.

Drop-in Craft at West Salem Branch

5:30 – 6:30 p.m. — Salem Public Library — Free entry — Families enjoy a creative evening crafting with provided materials and their imagination.