Good morning, Salem.

Salem and nearby communities will honor fallen service members on Memorial Day, May 25, with ceremonies at Oregon State Capitol Park and local cemeteries featuring F-15 flyovers by the Oregon Air National Guard, flag retirements, and guest remarks & music tributes.

The Oregon State Fair announced its 2026 Concert Series lineup now includes Nate Smith (Aug.

28), The Beach Boys (Aug. 29), Jo Dee Messina (Sept. 4), BigXThaPlug (Aug. 31), Black (Sept. 1) and headliner Weird Al on Labor Day — tickets are available through the fair website.

Economists (Riccadonna and Kennedy) reported that doubling oil prices and rising fuel costs are sparking inflation, lower wages and a forecast of recession if prices hit $150 per barrel.

Governor Tina Kotek said she is working to keep the state budget balanced as lawmakers debate policy changes.

In July, Salem Reporter will launch a new two-person education team funded partly by Report for America (a national nonprofit) to cover local school issues and nonprofit work serving the community.

The reporters will focus on budgets, test scores and education policies.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department now offers digital 12-month parking permits starting today.

Residents can order permits online or by phone and register up to two license plates ($60 for in-state, $75 for out-of-state), with valid permits lasting 365 days and an email reminder 30 days before expiration.

On Memorial Day (May 25), banks, schools, government offices, post offices and the DMV will be closed across Oregon while emergency services remain available.

Some retailers and services may operate with limited hours as the holiday is observed.

Buck, Oregon’s first Fish & Wildlife Conservation K-9 who was deployed 184 times, will be celebrated at a retirement ceremony today in Salem & honored for his statewide service.

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.

Salem Summer Solstice 5k & 10k Run

6-9 p.m. — Minto-Brown Island Park — $20-$25 — Celebrate the summer solstice with a fun run and a sweet ice cream sundae finish.