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.
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.
PHOTOS: Salem community celebrates 7th annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Speeches, performances and art at Riverfront Park on Monday highlighted the resilience of Indigenous communities in Salem and beyond.
Brown challenges incumbent Andersen for south Salem seat
Rep. Tom Andersen, an attorney and former Salem city councilor, is seeking a second term, running against political newcomer David Brown for the House District 19 seat representing south Salem.
Salem’s 7th Annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration to focus on resistance
A Monday event at Riverfront Park will feature Indigenous speakers, dancers and vendors.
Salem Health seeks 35% increase from Regence in insurance coverage dispute
Contract negotiations have stalled between Salem Health and Regence BlueCross BlueShield. If the contract is terminated, thousands of local Regence patients would have to pay more out-of-pocket for care at Salem’s only hospital.