Abbey McDonald
Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian, where she covered labor issues, health care and social services. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
Salem-area children’s services brace for lack of federal, state money
CASA of Marion County and Liberty House serve vulnerable children who are in foster care or have experienced abuse in the Salem area. They face an uncertain future as state lawmakers didn't boost funding as much as hoped following federal cuts.
Salem extreme heat warning issued for Friday through Tuesday
An extreme heat warning is in place for the Salem area starting Friday morning, with temperatures expected to reach a high of 101 degrees Friday and Saturday. The hot weather brings an increased risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Community gathers to honor life of West Salem student who died in crash
Elijah Jung’s funeral service brought over 300 people, including many friends who he helped guide through tough times. His parents are advocating for changes to make the rural road he crashed on safer, and plan to honor his life by supporting teen mentorship in the community.
City to continue work to beautify downtown sidewalks
On Monday, crews will begin work to replace sidewalks and improve landscaping on several blocks of downtown Salem. The work continues a project that began with open houses in 2017.
Man arrested after knife attack near Wallace Marine Park
A Salem man was walking near the entrance to Wallace Marine Park in West Salem last Sunday, Aug. 3, when he said a man struck him in the face with a knife, causing broken bones and lacerations, before stealing his belongings.
What to do in Salem from Aug. 14-20: Plays, cruise in and blood drive
Events in Salem this week include a blood drive competition between the Salem police and fire departments, the first showings of local theater productions and the return of zucchini racing at the Salem Saturday Market.
11-year-old Salem girl found safe after Tuesday evening kidnapping
Salem police have arrested 48-year-old Elijah Galaviz Arce, who investigators say lured an 11-year-old girl from her northeast Salem home. He has been charged with kidnapping, sexual abuse and giving methamphetamine to a minor. Salem police believe there may be more victims.
Church at the Park suggests new job program to clean up downtown
As discussions between the city and business owners continue to focus on the waste generated by unsheltered homelessness, Church at the Park has pitched a plan for a new cleanup team intended to build bridges between the communities while helping shelter residents gain job experience.
Welding, warehouse job training join list of resources available to formerly incarcerated people
After a change in location, the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency's program for people leaving jails and prisons has partnered with Chemeketa Community College for job training. It’s among many services offered by the lesser-known program.
West Salem student who died in Tuesday crash was known for his empathy and ambition
Elijah Jung, an incoming senior at West Salem High School, died in a car crash outside of West Salem Tuesday night. A vigil is scheduled at the crash site on Northwest Gibson Road at 6:30 p.m. Friday.