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.
Residents talk traffic, housing at first south Salem Town Hall
In the first meeting of its kind, south Salem city councilors addressed questions from constituents about affordable housing, codes and city spending.
82% of Salem voters reject city payroll tax
Salem voters have decisively rejected a payroll tax that would have taken 0.814% from paychecks citywide to fund city services, with 30,403 votes counted as of 8 p.m. Tuesday night.
In reversal, Salem Warming Network will get $800,000 boost from state
The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency will be able to hire staff to run emergency shelters on freezing nights throughout the winter after six months of pushing for more money.
On newest album, Kristen Grainger & True North take listeners from struggle to optimism
“Fear of Falling Stars” is the seventh album from Salem band Kristen Grainger & True North, releasing on Nov. 10, and features more original music than previous albums. Grainger wrote much of it during Covid isolation.
ART: November’s art exhibitions and events
New gallery shows and several artist events are coming to Salem this month, including a wildlife stamp competition and celebrations of Japanese culture.
How to make your vote on the Salem payroll tax count
Election day is Nov. 7, and with less than a week to go, most registered voters in Salem have not cast their ballots. Here’s a guide to election deadlines, dropbox locations and what’s in the voter’s pamphlet.
Young coach a role model for Salem players
Anthony Valdez, 20, has been coaching kids at the YMCA since he was a kid himself. His calm, supportive style makes him a favorite among players and parents, and he hopes to channel his passion into a program for keeping Salem youth out of the prison system.
Cherriots board approves bus stop repairs
With the Salem Area Mass Transit District’s latest approved project, eleven bus stops in Salem will become more accessible with lighting, sidewalk and shelter improvements. The Cherriots board approved the project during its Oct. 26 meeting, along with a budget…
Cuts discussions continue at Salem City Hall
During a work session Wednesday, the Salem City Council didn't seem to favor "extreme" cuts scenarios and considered reductions hitting multiple departments. The discussion came less than two weeks before voters will decide whether to implement a payroll tax to fund city services.
ARCHES seeks volunteers as weekend temperatures forecasted below freezing
The ARCHES Day Center plans to open its doors Friday night to give unsheltered people a warm place to rest as temperatures reach freezing. There are still dozens of volunteer shifts available.