Good morning, Salem.

The Polk County Fair was held in Rickreall on Aug.

5, featuring animal shows, arts and crafts, and local vendors (selling handmade trinkets and food) that provided fun for all ages.

Salem’s archaeologist Kimberli Fitzgerald leads a video tour exploring local history — offering residents a chance to discover our city's past and preservation efforts.

The Salem-Keizer School Board uses a policy governance model where it sets academic goals and writes guidelines while the superintendent handles operations.

Superintendent Andrea Castañeda said the board will adopt new student outcome goals in the coming weeks — a move intended to boost academic progress.

Salem-Keizer Public Schools used $1M in state funding to hold an elementary summer school that began July 27 to improve third-grade reading skills; teacher Stacey Evans helped students break down challenging words to boost their confidence.

An air-quality advisory for wildfire smoke was lifted in Marion, Polk, Linn, Yamhill and Benton counties on Aug.6 as shifting winds cleared the smoke that had darkened the Willamette Valley.

A smog advisory had been in effect for Salem until 10 p.m. Aug.6.

City forestry officials announced on Thursday that the emerald ash borer, a destructive invasive beetle from northeastern Asia, was found in Salem for the first time and local arborists had been preparing to protect ash trees for years.

The Oregon universal health care board delayed releasing its final single-payer report until Dec.

1 due to unclear funding strategies; board members and experts said questions remain about tax proposals (the state hopes to refine its financial plan before a legislative referral).

On Aug. 5, a hearing at the Oregon Department of Justice in Salem saw nearly two dozen local leaders, including state lawmakers, doctors, and business officials, voice support for the proposed Salem Health—Santiam merger as the department prepares its final decision.

Englewood Forest Festival

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