Good morning, Salem.

McNary High School won its first 6A state band championship on Saturday, May 16 after a 30-minute performance judged by three collegiate-level judges+ outscoring the runner-up by two points.

West Salem and Sprague also posted strong finishes in the latest competition.

Marion County Circuit Judge Channing Bennett is under investigation after allegations of vulgar language surfaced at a Sunriver conference last month; the Oregon Judicial Department confirmed a judicial fitness complaint and Bennett has stepped away from the bench (details pending).

Cherriots will upgrade fare collection technology on all Local and Regional buses beginning June 2 to improve boarding and reliability.

Riders can pay cash, use QR-code day passes, or convert magstripe passes at the Customer Service Lobby (220 High St. NE) in downtown.

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.

Bonnie Raitt Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Elsinore Theatre — Tickets from $581 — Experience the unforgettable sounds of Bonnie Raitt live in Salem.