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 mobile home tenants testify in support of rent limits
Mobile home tenants say a proposed bill limiting rent increases will help them afford essentials with fixed incomes. Landlords warned the bill could force them to sell to out-of-state companies, and limit repairs on properties.
Salem Public Library event offers free help Thursday to file taxes
On Thursday, Feb. 20, volunteer tax experts will come to the Salem Public Library to help people file their taxes IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. The online filing options are free for qualifying taxpayers.
Ice expected overnight Thursday in Salem, with temperatures warming Friday
Drivers should remain cautious on Salem roads, but the freezing rain forecast for Salem likely won’t be enough to bring down trees or power lines.
Council opts to present voters with lower of two proposed property tax increases
On Monday, the Salem City Council took steps toward asking voters to approve a tax levy in May that would cost the average Salem homeowner about $229 a year. The vote came after an outpouring of support for Salem’s libraries, parks and Center 50+ who would receive the funds.
Salem nighttime temperatures expected to reach the low 20s this week
Salem’s forecast for the next week includes nighttime temperatures as low as 20 degrees and a chance of snow starting Wednesday night. Several warming shelters will be open Monday night.
Grassroots effort helps unsheltered dogs stay warm
Salem business owner Krystal Kraig Labate has helped animals her whole life. For the past decade, she’s organized dog-coat donations to help unsheltered people in Salem care for their dogs in cold weather.
Willamette Art Center seeks new home
With their Oregon State Fairgrounds lease ending, the Willamette Art Center has until June 30 to find a new place to host its accessible art classes and large-scale kilns.
Snow, freezing weather forecast in Salem starting Tuesday night
Snow showers are likely Tuesday night, with a forecasted low temperature of 30 degrees according to the National Weather Service. The service has put out an advisory for slick roads.
What’s showing at Salem galleries, museums in February
Young artists from McKay High School and CTEC are among those featured in Salem galleries this month.
Explore DNA testing secrets, Dominican cuisine and more through Salem Reads
Community events throughout February will explore themes of identity, family and finances, diving deeper into the 2025 Salem Reads pick of “Why Didn’t You Tell Me?” by Carmen Rita Wong.