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.
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.
CULTURE: June’s art, history and exhibitions
Salem’s art galleries and museums will open exhibits featuring tiny paintings, ceramic heads and new portraits of Black pioneers.
Progressives to hold slight majority on new Salem City Council
Even with the one council race undecided and another too close to call, Salem voters are keeping a progressive city council.
Seniors get a safe haven in Salem’s new affordable cottage community
On Thursday, United Way held a grand opening ceremony for phase one of its Cottages United development, which will rent one-bedroom cottages to seniors for $500 a month. The first residents will move in over the weekend.
Salem’s parks host affordable summer camps, activities for all ages
The city is seeing low registration for its summer parks and recreation programs, which this year feature new pickleball, learning camps and tree climbing options at Silver Falls.