By Laura Tesler - Special to Salem Reporter
Laura Tesler has lived in Salem, Oregon for 20 years and is originally from Flint, MI. Laura has been an underwater photographer for 15 years, and is an avid scuba diver. Topside, she has been taking photographs since age 12, and currently works on assignment for the Salem Reporter, and full time purchasing land for fish and wildlife habitat in the Willamette Valley. Laura attended Oregon State University, and has traveled extensively all over the world and the United States.
PHOTOS: Make Music Day 2025
Rain didn't deter seasoned Salem music fans from celebrating the 10th anniversary of Make Music Day. More than 200 performers played at stages and venues across town.
PHOTOS: Salem sees one of its largest demonstrations in recent times
PHOTOS: See the scenes at the "No Kings" protest in Salem on Saturday, June 14, as thousands joined.
PHOTOS: Roberts High School graduates the Class of 2025
On Friday, 87 students graduated from Roberts High School, Salem's alternative school. Roberts hosts the district's Teen Parent Program.
PHOTOS: Salem’s Pride Parade and Block Party
Flags of all colors adorned State Street Saturday afternoon as Salem's LGBTQ+ community celebrated with the Pride Parade and Block Party.
PHOTOS: 2025 Crystal Apples honor outstanding educators
See photos from the red carpet and the award stage as a dozen Salem and Keizer educators took home the Crystal Apple trophy.
PHOTOS: Awesome 3000 draws a crowd of young runners
This year's Awesome 3000 drew nearly 2,200 runners and is expected to raise more than $30,000 for grants to local teachers and schools.
PHOTOS: Families play in the dirt at Ag Fest
Oregon Ag Fest gave families a chance to meet farm animals, learn about local crops and take home tomato starts at the Oregon State Fairgrounds.
No blossoms, but rainy cherry festival still proves a hit in Salem
PHOTOS: Despite gloom skies and blossoms still days away, Salem residents turned out for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in front of the Capitol on Saturday, March 15. Lanterns adorning the trees will be on display through the month.
PHOTOS: Polar Plunge 2025 raises thousands for Special Olympics
Unified teams from Salem schools joined everyone from the Marion County Sheriff's Office to Mayor Julie Hoy in taking an icy plunge Saturday to raise money for Special Olympics Oregon.
PHOTOS: Powwow celebrates Chemawa Indian School’s 145th birthday
Dancers competed Saturday at Chemawa Indian School, showing off regalia and celebrating the school's history.