NEWS IN REVIEW: Some of the best local stories in 2019 and why we reported them
Uhuru Youth Choir. (Courtesy/Uhuru Youth Choir)
Salem was busy making news in 2019 and we know readers are always curious about how Salem Reporter decides on stories.
Take a moment and sit beside each of our four reporters, so to speak, as they look back and tell why certain stories got their attention and your time. This is a good way to understand a bit more about how your local reporting team approaches the news, and you’ll be reminded or perhaps discover for the first time important, interesting or revealing stories.
And then we’ll bring you up to speed on the most recent news.
Font club, cavities and lots of data: reporter Rachel Alexander’s top stories of 2019
Our education reporter’s takeaways from 2019: the kids are alright, and Salem is full of delightfully passionate and quirky people.
A cop arrested and a landlord doesn’t pay: reporter Troy Brynelson’s top stories of 2019
News goes stale quicker than ever these days, but here are five stories that raise questions we’re still asking today and will be for years to come.
A German soccer referee and a Goodwill shooting: reporter Saphara Harrell’s top stories of 2019
There’s a lot of darkness in the news, but here are a couple bright spots from the past year.
Defense lawyers, hate crimes and ICE court rule: reporter Jake Thomas’ top stories of 2019
Salem Reporter’s newest staff member reflects on the stories that stood out for him in 2019.
And news you might have missed during the holiday week:
Housing affordability worsened in Oregon in last decade with low construction rates
Despite Oregon’s strong economy, a state economist called the last a decade a “disappointment” as the state recovers from the Great Recession.
Heading to the Salem Hospital ER? There’s a new entrance
Parking and emergency room changes are underway on the Salem Hospital campus as construction of a new seven-story building begins.
Marion County teens snagged in justice system work their way out through woodworking
Teens in the Marion County juvenile court system have the option to pay back victims of crimes working in a wood shop, where they learn job skills by crafting furniture and decorations.
As civics education declines in Oregon, nonprofits and a state office try to fill the gap
Legislative attempts to mandate civic instruction in Oregon classrooms has failed. The Secretary of State’s Office has shifted its priorities to promote civic education.
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Thank you for sharing a little of your time with us on the first Sunday of the new year. If you have questions, suggestions or comments, you can reach me directly at [email protected]. I consider every single message – I promise.
Les Zaitz, editor and CEO
PS: What guides our work? We post our PRINCIPLES so you can hold us accountable to deliver the journalism you want.
