Good morning, Salem.

CASA of Marion County and Liberty House in Salem face funding shortfalls after receiving much less support than requested due to federal cuts and state budget constraints, which means fewer foster children and abused kids will get needed services.

Both organizations plan to apply for grants and seek private donors—hoping to address the growing community need.

A Salem teen pleaded guilty to manslaughter after fatally stabbing 19-year-old Riley John Adams at Wallace Marine Park in July 2024—he is now held by the Oregon Youth Authority until his release at age 25.

Michael Ray Solis, 21 years old, was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in prison without parole by Judge Jodie A.

Bureta for the July 1 shooting on Silverton Road that killed 34-year-old Steven Michael Hill—law enforcement credited police and sheriff work in securing the conviction.

The Oregon State Fair kicked off Friday, Aug.

22nd with barnyard animals, thrill rides, games and art amid triple-digit heat—many fairgoers cooled off with ice cream, snow cones and shade while the fair continues through Sept. 1.

A new report shows Oregon schools lost $275 million in property tax revenue in 2024 and the Salem-Keizer district saw its loss drop from $749,397 in 2019 to $692,609 in 2024 due mainly to affordable housing exemptions—district officials say this change should not affect long-term funding.

The Joint Interim Committee on Transportation Funding heard public comments yesterday at the Capitol on a new transportation bill meant to fund the state’s department of transportation.

The committee will hold a second hearing on August 29—an important step as lawmakers prepare the special session.

More than 60 Oregonians testified Monday in Salem on Gov. Kotek's transportation funding proposal that will raise gas, registration and payroll taxes to cover a $350 million budget gap and avoid layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation—Julie Murray warned nearly 500 trained workers could lose their jobs if the state does not act. Lawmakers will vote on the proposal Friday.

Salem teen Mayumi Sugahara, a 14-year-old student from Heritage School, set a Guinness World Record on June 29 by running 100 meters on all fours in 22 seconds—she trained on local tracks and now plans to break her record again.

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.

Banda Los Sebastianes Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Oregon State Fair & Exposition Center — Free entry — Experience the lively sounds of Banda Los Sebastianes at the Columbia Bank Concert Series during the Oregon State Fair.

The Beach Boys Concert

4-9:30 p.m. — The Pavilion — Cost info not available — Experience over six decades of musical brilliance from The Beach Boys.

Tropical Treasures: Paper Art Exhibition by Eileen Downes

5-8 p.m. — Stefani Art Gallery — Free entry — Explore vibrant collages that transform torn paper into tropical dreams and hidden stories.

Boot Scoot and Brew Music Festival

11 a.m.-10 p.m. — Salem Riverfront Park Amphitheater — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy a full day of music featuring the Catnip Brothers and more.

Wine & Yoga Experience

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

Yoga + Libations at Lively Station

6-7 p.m. — Lively Station — $5-$10 suggested donation — Enjoy a relaxing outdoor yoga session followed by dinner and drinks in a vibrant setting.

Pinot & Pizza at Hudak House

4-8 p.m. — Hudak House - Winery & Vineyard — No reservations required — Savor custom pizzas and Pinot while enjoying live music in a scenic setting.