Good morning, Salem.

Three years after becoming a stand-alone agency, the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care celebrated a milestone yesterday (July 6) by highlighting expanded programs that support preschool access for 3-year-olds.

The agency invited families to download a coloring page and call 2-1-1 for childcare information.

Salem officials announced that the Exit 248 southbound off-ramp on I-5 will close from July 12 to 14 for highway widening between Battle Creek Road and Turner Road + drivers can use Exit 252 to Kuebler Boulevard as a detour.

Oregon regulators proposed steep fee hikes on psilocybin businesses + the changes would double license fees for manufacturers, service centers and facilitators while removing discounts for nonprofits and veterans; critics say rising costs could force testing labs to close if revenue fails to meet expenses.

Marion County Fair

Jul 9-12 — Marion County Fair — General admission: $6, Children under 6: free — Celebrate community spirit with live music, rides, and great food.

Oregon Parent-Child Chapman Tournament

All day — Salem Golf Club — Entry fee from $99 — Compete in a fun 18-hole Chapman stroke play with family teams.

Mean Girls the Musical

6-8:30 p.m. — Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater — Tickets required — Experience an unforgettable night under the stars with sharp wit and vibrant choreography in this Broadway musical adaptation of a beloved film.

Santiam Canyon Stampede PRCA Rodeo

7-10 p.m. — Sublimity Harvest Festival — Ticket required — Celebrate Military Night with rodeo action, mutton busting, donkey races, and live music.

Spearhead Oregon

July 24-25 — Salem Armory Auditorium — Paid entry — Experience two days of worship, prophetic impartation, and spiritual activation.

Paint & Sip Night at The Pour House Saloon

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Pour House Saloon — Drinks and food available for purchase — Unwind with friends and explore your creativity while sipping your favorite beverages.

Story Night Featuring Kourtney Ferrua

6-9 p.m. — Zenith Vineyard — Wine available for purchase — Enjoy an evening of friendship, food, and an inspirational story with Kourtney Ferrua.

Sell Your Camera Gear at The Shutterbug

July 31st - August 1st — The Shutterbug — Free entry — Sell your used camera gear for top dollar and enjoy additional trade bonuses.