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.
EVENTS: Downtown caroling, free holiday movies this weekend
Enjoy live music downtown, see a free movie or catch the last evenings of annual holiday light displays this weekend in Salem.
More Salem property owners add apartments, cottages to increase housing
Over 50 permits to build accessory dwelling units, like a “mother-in-law” cottage or a basement apartment, have been filed so far this year. It’s twice as many as last year, and city planners say it’s something that will chip away at Salem’s housing needs. Officials hope to make the option more accessible with new ready-build plans.
Busy families, homeless Salemites disappointed by library cuts
The Salem Public Library announced earlier this month that it would close Sundays and reduce service hours throughout the week due to limited staff. The announcement brought community outcry, with some respondents saying it would impact their ability to go to the library.
UPDATE: Cherriots board approves new security cameras
The Cherriots board approved a $500,000 upgrade to its security cameras and postponed its vote on new paratransit buses during their Dec. 14 meeting.
EVENTS: Holiday bar crawl through downtown
Events in Salem this weekend include a holiday bar crawl hosted by Travel Salem, a carol sing-along at the library and an afternoon making handmade gifts for local seniors.
From Napoleon Dynamite to Barbenheimer, Salem’s indie cinema celebrates four decades
Salem Cinema opened on Christmas Day in 1982 under a parkade, with staff bribing skateboarding teenagers with popcorn to stay off the theater’s roof during shows. Though still recovering from the pandemic, there’s much more reel to spin ahead.
UPDATE: Councilors finalize revenue task force plans
In their meeting on Monday, Dec. 11, the Salem City Council finalized their plan for a revenue task force that will seek ways to raise city funds and discussed cuts to hours at the Salem Public Library.
PHOTOS: Salem celebrates Hanukkah with 2023 Grand Menorah lighting
A crowd gathered at Salem’s Mirror Park on Sunday to celebrate the fourth night of Hanukkah with a parade, fire dancing and grand menorah lighting.
EVENTS: Riverfront tree lighting returns
This weekend in Salem take a carriage ride, dance at a Céilí or see local performers shine with a full schedule of events.
Salem Public Library to close Sunday, reduce hours starting in January
Amid looming budget cuts and short staffing, the Salem Public Library will close on Sundays and reduce hours at the main branch. The West Salem Branch will only be open two days a week.