Abbey McDonald
Senior Reporter Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022, where she covers homelessness and housing. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
Salem Health cancels patient appointments after Regence split
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.
What to do in Salem from Feb. 27- March 5: Saturday Market, volcanic comedy
Each week on Wednesday, Salem Reporter highlights a few upcoming local events. For a more complete list, browse our events calendar here. You can submit an upcoming event here. Here’s a roundup for the week from Thursday, Feb. 27, to…
Salem Health ends negotiations with Regence, leaving thousands out-of-network at city’s only hospital
On Wednesday, Salem Health announced that it would no longer negotiate with Regence, and asked patients to either switch insurance or seek medical care somewhere else to avoid costly out-of-network medical bills.
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.