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.
New affordable housing complex is Salem’s largest yet
The recently completed Mahonia Crossing affordable housing complex in southeast Salem is designed to help seniors, kids and families get to know one another. A grand opening celebration on Tuesday celebrated the local, state and federal collaboration which got the project done.
One year in, Avelo has received $446k from grant to subsidize Salem operations
Travel Salem officials said they expect Avelo Airlines’ Salem operations to remain commercially viable when a grant to pay minimum revenue guarantees expires in a year. The money comes from a federal grant and private contributions, not city funds.
Bush Park’s “heart and soul” celebrates 89th birthday after decades volunteering
Sofia Schwarz is known for two decades of volunteer work to rake and restore Bush’s Pasture Park. She celebrated the park and shared favorite stories at her 89th birthday party on Thursday.
Waitlists are opening for several affordable apartment complexes in Salem. Here’s what to know.
Salem Housing Authority waitlists for five affordable apartment complexes will open on Saturday, Oct. 26, for the first time in months. Applicants will be placed on the list in the order that they submit materials, and the last day to apply is Nov. 17.
Thousands lose power in West Salem after construction vehicle downs power pole
Around 11 a.m. Wednesday, a vacuum truck Northwest Orchard Heights Road and Northwest Linwood Street knocked down a power line. Most homes had their power restored by early afternoon.
Local election workers “on edge” as threats, misinformation ramp up ahead of Election Day
Clerks in Marion and Polk Counties are bracing for a contentious election season. Already, both offices are fielding angry phone calls spurred by misinformation about election integrity.
Seniors, Blanchet students bond over crafts
GlamourGals, a new club at Blanchet Catholic School, builds community with the seniors at nearby retirement home The Springs at Lancaster Village with monthly gatherings to do crafts.
Your guide to the lowest-profile election in Marion County: a contested soil and water district seat
This year, county voters will select over half the board seats at the Marion Soil and Water Conservation District. The district focuses on protecting and improving soil and water quality throughout the county through answering questions, holding educational events and funding projects to stabilize and protect the region’s water quality.
In poll, Salem residents say they won’t pay more property taxes for public safety, library or parks
Results of a city-commissioned poll released Wednesday show any city effort to bring a property tax increase to voters would likely fail at the ballot box. Councilors will discuss the results and what they mean for the city’s budget deficit at a meeting Monday.
Renovation planned to keep century-old Elsinore Theatre bringing in talent
The Elsinore Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Salem, hopes to add a vertical blade sign for the first time since 1962. Plans to renovate also include new signs, seating and sound equipment.