Good morning, Salem.

The Larry and Jeanette Epping Family Foundation opened its Family Resource Advocacy Network center on July 28 in Salem to help families connect with services and outreach.

Community leaders and members toured the new facility as part of yesterday's celebration.

A new essential goods pantry run by Courtney Place Veterans Housing opened in southeast Salem to provide veterans with hygiene products, food, and furniture.

Program specialist Baltazar Campuzano connects veterans with additional resources (including community activities) to help ease daily challenges.

Wildfires forced an evacuation on July 25 of 800 staff and Salem-area campers from Washington Family Ranch — a Christian retreat in Antelope — with buses taking them to a Madras school where they spent the night; they returned to Salem the next day after officials confirmed 50% containment.

A music festival takes place at Riverfront Park, a free yoga class (rooftop at the downtown YMCA) and an outdoor art market near Grand Theatre set a weeklong events lineup starting Thursday, July 30.

Wildfires have burned 1.6 million acres by July 28 in central and eastern Oregon—state climatologist Larry O’Neill warned August may bring more fires after a dry, hot spring, while western Oregon has seen fewer impacts so far.

Gov. Tina Kotek ordered Oregon public institutions to fly flags at half-staff today in honor of U.S. Navy Commander Gabriel Edwards, who died July 1 after an emergency helicopter landing; the flags will be lowered from sunrise to sunset.

At a bustling city council meeting on Monday, July 27 at Salem Public Library, residents gathered to oppose a proposed $5.1 billion Google-funded data center at Mill Creek Corporate Center as they expressed concerns over local environmental and community impacts.

Hoopla returned downtown after Capitol construction moved the tournament.

In its 27th year, 151 teams played on Court Street north of the Capitol on Saturday, July 25, 2026, and photos captured lively moments during the local 3-on-3 basketball event.

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.

Regional Music Festival

7-10 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Ticket information available — Experience a vibrant night with electrifying performances from popular regional artists.

Englewood Forest Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Englewood Park — Free entry — Celebrate art, nature, and community with entertainment and activities for all ages.