Good morning, Salem.

Local fire agencies will lead a wildfire preparedness meeting Monday, May 18 from 5–7:30 p.m. at the Marion County Fire District station one (300 Cordon Rd. N.E.) to teach residents how to reduce fire risk before the season starts.

Seven splash pads will open at Salem city parks by June 15 after testing and cleaning for safe use.

City staff said visitors can enjoy free cooling spots at parks such as Riverfront Park (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and Fairmount Park (12 p.m. to 8 p.m.) throughout the summer.

Today, over 2,000 children and teens will race at Awesome 3000 at Bush's Pasture Park — races begin at 8:15 a.m. as United Way organizes the event to raise funds for local schools with a dedicated team of volunteers.

Twelve educators were honored with the Crystal Apple Awards on May 14 at the Salem Convention Center — recognizing outstanding contributions to our local schools.

The annual event celebrated teachers and staff for their dedication.

Attorneys for wildfire survivors filed a petition with the Oregon Supreme Court on Wednesday to review an appeals court ruling that stalled $1 billion in wildfire damage awards, citing concerns about a judge’s previous work with PacifiCorp (a former client).

PacifiCorp said that connection has no bearing on the case.

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.

Marshall Tucker Band Concert

7-9 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic Southern rock with the iconic Marshall Tucker Band.

Teacher Appreciation Night

6:35 – 11:59 p.m. — Chemeketa Baseball Field — Free admission for teachers — Celebrate the amazing educators of our community at the ballpark with a fun-filled evening.

Grupo Barak Concert

6:00pm-9:00pm — L.B. Day Amphitheater — $10 per vehicle — Experience an inspiring night of contemporary worship and Latin rhythms with Grupo Barak.

Santiam Hospital & Clinics Fun Run & Health Walk

8:30 – 11:00 AM — Santiam Hospital & Clinics — Registration required — Lace up your shoes for a fun-filled day of running and walking in Stayton.

2026 ACWA Biosolids Management Workshop

9:30 AM - 4:30 PM — Salem Public Library — Paid entry — Dive into the latest research on biosolids' benefits for soil health and sustainable farming.