Good morning, Salem.

Salem will mark Juneteenth tomorrow with a downtown block party from noon to 6 p.m. at the intersection of Southeast Cottage and State Streets and a community history walk from the Willamette Heritage Center offering guided and self-guided tours starting at 9 a.m. City and state offices will be closed while emergency services remain available—ensuring safety during the celebrations.

Federal authorities say that Heriberto Salazar Amaya—a 36-year-old Mexican national linked to the Sinaloa cartel—ran a multi-state drug trafficking operation from a new house on Northeast Greencrest Street in east Salem and was arrested on April 28 after agents seized large sums of cash and several vehicles, and he now awaits a federal trial in New Mexico while facing state charges despite having no local ties.

Oregon senators passed a $1.4 billion early childhood budget that cuts $45 million and may force preschools to close and lead to job losses — key programs like Preschool Promise lose $20.2 million.

The bill passed on Monday and now moves to the House for a vote.

State lawmakers passed a record $11.36 billion K-12 budget bill that increases the State School Fund by over 11% for the next two years—and it now awaits Gov. Kotek’s signature.

The bill supports teacher retention, special education and dual language programs, though some critics say the funding formula may not meet all schools’ needs.

Gov. Tina Kotek’s statewide homeless shelter support program advanced to the House floor Tuesday (the funding was trimmed from the $217 million proposal) after lawmakers reduced allocations amid falling revenue and rising homelessness.

Lawmakers require shelter rules be set by early next year (with regional coordinators chosen by May) to restructure the state’s support efforts.

Governor Kotek proposed using $161 million from the state’s rainy day fund to pay for wildfire response and prevention efforts for the 2025–27 biennium — a move that leaves little time for lawmakers to secure a stable funding plan.

Preschool Storytime

10:15 – 10:40 a.m. — Salem Public Library — Free — Engage in interactive stories, songs, and movement designed for young children and their caregivers.

Tube Bending & Iso Drawing Workshop

2-6 p.m. — Local 290 Training CENTER SALEM — Free for Local 290 Members, $35 for UA Travelers — Learn the fundamental math and techniques for bending tubing in this hands-on workshop.

Yarn and Thread Handwork Studio

12:30-2:30 p.m. — Center 50+ — $15 for five classes — Craft your own stylish accessories like stocking caps, scarves, or mittens with guidance from experienced students.

2025 Sumpter Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale

June 27-30 — Sumpter School City Park — Free entry — Discover amazing deals and hidden treasures at this popular neighborhood-wide garage sale in SE Salem.

Free Foot Check Day

10 AM – 4 PM — The Good Feet Store — Free entry — Get your feet evaluated by a healthcare professional to enhance your overall comfort.

Letter Writing Social

2-4 p.m. — IKE Box Café — Bring your own supplies — A creative monthly gathering for letter writing and mail art enthusiasts.

Beginning/Intermediate Woodcarving Class

6:45-8:45 p.m. — Center 50+ — $20 for four classes — Explore your creativity through woodcarving while working on personal or guided projects.

Lavender Wreath Making Class

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Arrowhead Lavender Farm & Co. — Costs vary — Create a beautiful lavender wreath while enjoying a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

4th of July Spectacular

3-11 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free admission — Celebrate Independence Day with food, rides, music, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Marion County Fair

Noon-10 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Adults: $9, Kids 5 and under FREE — Celebrate summer with thrilling rides, tasty food, and live music at the Marion County Fair.