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.
Shane Matthews clinches Ward 3 council seat by 42 votes
Salem’s closest and spendiest city council race concluded Monday evening. Realtor Shane Matthews secured a close win, beating Nathan Soltz, a legislative chief of staff and member of the Morningside Neighborhood Association board.
Where to go for free Salem events in June
Make Music Day, passes to museums and Movies in the Park are among the free activities in Salem this summer.
City parks board advances plans for Spec Keene Stadium
After asking that Willamette University and the city meet annually to evaluate impacts, Salem’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board voted to recommend a city agreement which would further the university’s plan to bring a baseball league to the stadium adjacent to Bush’s Pasture Park.
Neighbors question public benefit, impact as Spec Keene Stadium plans advance
Willamette University and Salem Baseball LLC plan to bring a baseball league to the central Salem stadium. Some neighbors are asking the city to reconsider.
Barbie, Wonka showing at Movies in the Park this summer
Salem has announced its lineup of free movies that will be shown at Riverfront Park this summer: Barbie, Wonka, Elemental and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.
University students bring solutions for Salem climate, infrastructure, community projects
The University of Oregon’s Sustainable City Year Program brought new ideas to upcoming city projects, including how to help Minto Brown beavers thrive, updates to Salem bike infrastructure and approaches to budget solutions.
Pentacle’s newest “chiller” play questions romance and pursuit
“Boy Gets Girl” opens at the Pentacle Theatre on Friday, June 7. The play follows a young reporter who has become the target of an obsessed stalker.
Salem’s Saturday Pride block party features storytelling mermaid, Lego community art, free massages
On Saturday, June 8, Capital Pride will bring the city’s first Pride parade in decades to Salem’s downtown, along with free activities and performances.
At Salem’s first Elderfest, Gene Derfler shares life lessons after 100th birthday
Salem’s first Elderfest hosted by Center 50+ included a discussion with former Senate Majority Leader Gene Derfler, who recently turned 100, and a performance by the Just For Fun Singers.
Salem-Keizer deputy superintendent chosen to lead Tigard-Tualatin schools
Iton Udosenata, who oversees middle and high schools in Salem, will leave the district June 30 for a new role running Tualatin schools.