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.
How state money has shaped sheltering in Salem
A recent report shows that Gov. Tina Kotek’s January 2023 executive order has helped shelter over 600 homeless people and families in Marion and Polk counties and added more than 200 shelter beds.
After five-month delay, senior residents at Mahonia Crossing get consistent hot water
Despite complaints to management, senior residents at Salem’s newest and largest affordable housing project said they haven’t had consistent hot water in one of the buildings since October. That changed this week, after questions from Salem Reporter.
City considers ways to build more housing and lower rents as part of state initiative
In the coming months, the Salem City Council and members of the planning commission will consider a broad list of proposals to increase housing development and help renters and homeowners.
A unicorn with braces and a story joins Salem’s Riverfront Carousel
Mr. Sprinkles the unicorn was unveiled at the Hazel Patton Riverfront Carousel on Friday. Behind the design is a decade-long orthodontics program giving free braces to children who are in foster care or have terminal illnesses.
Benefit concert to help McKay students pay for lessons, Chicago field trip
On March 21, the McKay High School Chamber Orchestra will play alongside Oregon Symphony violists to raise money for private lessons, instrument repairs and an upcoming trip to play in Chicago.
Frequently camped Market Street underpass to be blocked by fence
The Oregon Department of Transportation began installing a $75,000 fence last week to block people from camping underneath the Interstate 5 overpass at Northeast Market Street. The department said camping close to busy traffic is unsafe.
Salem Health cancels patient appointments after Regence split
Sub: Patients with Regence insurance are being met with conflicting answers and told they can’t pay out of pocket for medical care with Salem Health providers as contention between the two health care entities continues.
What to do in Salem from March 6-12: Solve a murder mystery, enjoy a symphony
This week, events in Salem include a pops concert, a free murder mystery party for teens and karaoke with a live band.
What’s showing at Salem galleries, museums in March
March exhibitions include hundreds of art pieces by local K-12 students, a celebration of Salem’s greenery and mythical creatures made of felt.
Oregon has the highest rate of child homelessness in the U.S. A new Salem center aims to help
The ARCHES Family First resource center, which opened on Feb. 17, gives homeless families in Salem a dedicated space to relax, get supplies and connect with health care and shelter.