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.
UPDATE: Councilors approve settlement with former 911 dispatcher
During their meeting on Monday, April 8, the Salem City Council approved a $325,000 settlement with a former 911 dispatcher who said she was denied a promotion after department leaders refused to reschedule an exam so she could testify in court against her abuser.
As Salem weighs budget, community rallies against cuts to library
Amid ongoing budget discussions, around 100 people, including library employees, joined a sign rally outside the Salem Public Library on Sunday to ask that no more cuts be made to it.
CULTURE: April’s art, history exhibitions and events
A fresh slate of gallery shows open this month in Salem, including showcases from graduating art students, knit marine life and celebrations of self-expression.
Qingming Festival returns to celebrate Salem’s Chinese ancestors, history and community
Salem’s sixth annual Qingming Festival starts Thursday, and this year will highlight the life of Low Sun Fook, a prominent Salem business owner known as “Hop Lee” who died in 1925. Events include book discussions with his grandson, Dr. Russell Low, who said Salem has a rare history of inclusion.
UPDATE: Cherriots adds new route connecting south Salem to Amazon center
Starting May 5, a new bus route will cut an hour off the commute time between Southeast Commercial Street and the Southeast Mill Creek area.
Long-awaited Vietnam veteran memorial breaks ground at Oregon State Capitol
Over 100 attended the groundbreaking of the Vietnam War Memorial at Willson Park on Friday, a multi-million dollar effort to recognize the sacrifices of veterans with statues and educational information.
Salem community shares overwhelming support for the library amid budget cut talks
During the City Council Meeting on Monday, March 25, teens, librarians and community members said they did not want to see deep cuts to the Salem Public Library.
Vast majority of city council say they won’t close the library
Seven of nine Salem city councilors told Salem Reporter they would not vote for a city budget that closed the Salem Public Library, while two didn’t respond. But most said cuts will likely be needed.
UPDATE: Councilors approve public takeover of Salem’s ambulance service
During their meeting on Monday, March 25, city councilors approved the fire department’s takeover of citywide ambulance operations from Falck beginning in 2025.
Library will not shut down, city says, but more cuts on the table
Salem city leaders are preparing a budget that would further cut services at the Salem Public Library and Center 50+ without closing either. The city’s budget committee will continue to debate the proposed cuts until May 8, when they will make a recommendation to the City Council.