Good morning, Salem.

On July 27, the Oregon Humane Society Technical Animal Rescue Team and Marion County Search and Rescue Team rescued Wolfie, a 100-pound German shepherd stranded 500 feet at the base of a remote canyon in Detroit—ensuring his safe recovery.

The Polk County Fair is open at the Polk County Fairgrounds in Rickreall until Aug.

9 with animals, contests, vendors, and dance and music shows drawing local visitors. Families and fairgoers enjoy hands-on competitions and local food in a festive setting.

Salem Fire responded to a two-alarm house fire on La Cresta Drive SE near Lone Oak Road at about 4:30 a.m. Aug.

7 and battled the blaze amid limited water supply and steep slopes, which displaced one person and caused about $300,000 in damage.

Salem Police arrested Elijah Galaviz Arce, 38, on Monday, August 5 after a neighbor reported suspicious activity near Evergreen and Chester Avenues NE that led officers to find an 11-year-old girl reported missing from her home near Lansing and Kathleen Avenues NE—Arce faces charges including first-degree kidnapping, attempted rape, and unlawful delivery of a controlled substance to a minor.

A report from Oregon State University shows that child care deserts for preschoolers have dropped from 18 counties to nine as more licensed providers and small family homes add capacity, while access for infants and toddlers remains very limited with only two counties meeting needs—highlighting state investments that are boosting preschool options despite ongoing challenges.

A new OSU report found that Salem area preschool spaces have improved with more public funding — yet few affordable care options exist for infants and toddlers.

Experts noted that in Marion and Polk counties, fewer than one in three young children have licensed care, and providers struggle with high staffing and rental costs.

On Wednesday, local advocates and business owners met with U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas in Salem to discuss federal food program cuts that are set to lower benefits by 20% for more than 162,000 households in Marion and Polk counties—these cuts will add work and school rules that could leave seniors and families with fewer resources. The group said state agencies and lawmakers must act now to protect vulnerable residents.

Gov. Tina Kotek asked lawmakers to hold a special session starting Aug.

29 to vote on a transportation funding package with higher gas taxes, increased fees, and a new road usage charge to avert layoffs at the transportation department—lawmakers warned the session might extend into the Labor Day holiday. Layoffs and maintenance station closures have been delayed until Sept. 15.

On Wednesday, Gov. Tina Kotek signed four bills — aimed at strengthening the behavioral health system — that will add $6 million for scholarships, $65 million to build 200 treatment beds, and $1 million for youth substance abuse prevention.

Officials said the actions come as the state works to fix workforce shortages amid federal budget cuts — the bills received bipartisan support.

The Marion Berries finished their first season with 28 wins to 26 losses and advanced to the West Coast League playoffs.

Today they will face the Portland Pickles at home at Chemeketa Baseball Field (4000 Lancaster Dr. N.E) at (6:35 p.m.).

CAMC S-K Car Show

9 AM – 3 PM — Powerland Heritage Park — No Spectator Fee — Celebrate all car makes and models at this vibrant show sponsored by CAMC.

Partner Massage Class

4-6 p.m. — Massage With Fauna, LLC — $75 per pair — Learn to provide nurturing massage techniques in a relaxed workshop setting.

Yoga & Wine Experience

6-8 p.m. — Cubanisimo Vineyards — Suggested donation of $5-10 — Enjoy a refreshing yoga session with scenic mountain views followed by a post-class beverage.

7th Annual No BS OBS Truck Show and Swap

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Powerland Heritage Park — $20 entry — Experience one of the largest gatherings of 1980-97 Ford trucks and Broncos with vendors, food, and community fun.

The Shinkle Band Live Performance

5-7 p.m. — West Hills Vineyards — Enjoy a delightful evening with live country and rock music while savoring fine wine and bistro bites.

The All-American Rejects Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — L.B. Day Amphitheater — Part of Columbia Bank Concert Series — Enjoy a night of nostalgia with The All-American Rejects at the Oregon State Fair.

Train Stop Workshops: Dance and Derby

9:15 a.m.–8 p.m. — Cherry City Roller Derby — Promo code available — Learn dance skating skills and enhance roller derby footwork with Freight Train.

Paint Night at Vortex Eatery & Taphouse

6-8 p.m. — Vortex Eatery + Taphouse — Food and drink available for purchase — Unleash your creativity while sipping and painting in a fun atmosphere.

Pinot & Pizza Event

12-6 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Enjoy fresh pizza and Pinot Noir in a scenic setting with live music.

Dylan Scott Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Cost TBD — Experience the powerful vocals and heartfelt songs of Curb Records artist Dylan Scott.