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.
New “Backpack Buddies” program gives hands-on history lessons
Penny, a stuffed dog, is the first guide in the Willamette Heritage Center’s new program that hopes to give kids a fun, accessible way to learn about Salem’s railroad history.
Professor, chemical engineer bring the world to a coffee shop
A chance meeting at a northeast Salem coffee house has become an unofficial language learning institute between friends Dr. Bill Long and Iyad Khalaf.
Sparrow Furniture to be replaced by workforce development program
For the past six years, Salem refugees have learned English and woodworking skills at Sparrow Furniture, moving on to careers throughout the community. The store announced its closure last week, to be replaced by a broader workforce development program.
CULTURE: February’s art, history exhibitions and events
Art exhibitions opening in Salem this month include Willamette Valley landscapes, an inclusive erotica show and work from students of video game design. Salem Art Association 600 Mission St. S.E. Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 12 – 4 p.m. Admission: Free The following…
River Road reopened after rockslide
One lane of traffic on South River Road reopened the morning of Thursday, Feb. 1, and the road is expected to fully open in the afternoon. Crews spent the week evaluating and removing debris from a Sunday rock slide.
Tenants to start moving into Sequoia Crossings
With 60 apartments, a newly completed supportive housing development in northeast Salem will give formerly homeless tenants access to services, community spaces and security starting next week.
YOUR GOVERNMENT: Cherriots to add 10 more electric buses
During its meeting on Thursday, Jan. 25, the Cherriots board approved purchases for ten electric buses and seven compressed natural gas paratransit buses.
Library staffing, budget concerns close the book on 50-year-old delivery program
Since 1972, volunteers with “Operation Bookshelf” have been bringing a stack of personalized books to homebound and disabled people throughout Salem. The library closed the program in December due to staff workload and budget concerns
EVENTS: A slew of concerts, First Taste Oregon and roller derby
This weekend in Salem, choose from a slate of comedians, enjoy jazz music or learn about regional history.
UPDATE: Council approves upgrades to problem intersection
During their meeting on Monday, Jan. 22, the Salem City Council approved upgrades to the intersection at Liberty Road South and Davis Road South, near Crossler Middle School. They also approved moving forward with renovations to the Willamette University baseball field, which won’t use city money but is located in Bush’s Pasture Park.