Good morning, McMinnville.

Graduation season in Yamhill County begins Saturday as Willamina High School holds its commencement at 10 a.m. Nearly 500 students will earn their diplomas at Linfield University’s McMinnville campus on Sunday at 10 a.m., and other high schools have ceremonies scheduled later this week.

The McMinnville School District received final committee approval for a general fund budget of $104.8 million that will cut 47 teaching positions due to enrollment declines, though retirements+transfers kept most layoffs minimal, and it secured a $2.6 million state grant for a kindergarten to 8 summer program.

Tuesday, the Mac foundation awarded grants that included the new Linfield Opportunity Fund to help McMinnville students continue their education at the university (a local effort to support scholars).

Joe Wilkins, the English Department chair at Linfield, wrote a poem celebrating the recent inauguration of Mark Blegen as the university’s 21st president.

He recalled his experience managing the library and helping launch student projects (including community garden programs) that have shaped lasting ties at Linfield.

Faulconer-Chapman School’s summer program returns July 6 to 31 for first through eighth graders; registration ends June 10.

The program offers hands-on global lessons and field trips on Fridays, with lunch, snacks and limited transportation provided (information from district officials).

Linfield’s softball team eliminated top seed Virginia Wesleyan 3-2 Friday at Salem, Virginia when McKenna Parmelee’s seventh inning single gave the Wildcats a lead in the double elimination NCAA Division III tournament.

The Wildcats will face Simpson in an elimination game at 8:00 a.m. PDT Saturday.

Linfield lost 9-7 to Redlands in the NCAA softball tournament opener at Salem on Thursday — the Bulldogs rallied with five runs in the top of the seventh inning.

The Wildcats now face Virginia Wesleyan in a losers’ bracket game Friday at 10:30 a.m.

Beginner Qigong Class

10:30-11:15 a.m. — McMinnville Grange — Cost info unavailable — Engage in gentle movements designed to release stress and enhance strength and balance.

Rhone Rangers Wine Tasting

1-4 p.m. — Evergreen Events — Free with registration — Experience a delightful afternoon of wine tasting with the Rhone Rangers in a stunning venue.

Oregon Brews & BBQ Festival Camping

Full weekend — Yamhill County Fairgrounds — Tent camping starts at $10, RV camping options available — Enjoy live music, craft beer, and BBQ in a family-friendly atmosphere.