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.
Liberty Fire contained after burning 25 acres, threatening hundreds of homes
A fast-spreading grass fire that came close to south Salem subdivisions Wednesday was controlled within hours thanks to help from a nearby construction crew, air support and over 100 firefighters. Fire crews are monitoring the area as Salem’s forecast calls for high temperatures and low humidity in the coming days.
Road tripping across Oregon, Salem volunteers maintain state’s historical signs
From the Oregon Coast to the Idaho border, over 100 historical sites are marked with wooden signs that share a piece of Oregon’s history. A small group of Salem retirees has been maintaining each one for the past 30 years.
Councilor Julie Hoy seeks council repeal of payroll tax
Councilor Julie Hoy is proposing the Salem City Council repeal the new payroll tax at a meeting next week. But whether a repeal would stop a citizen vote on the tax in November isn't clear.
Avelo reports thousands of bookings in Salem
Two months before launch, Avelo said that it has seen nearly 4,000 itineraries booked for service at the Salem Municipal Airport.
An evening with a Salem Death Cafe
At Salem’s Death Cafes, participants gather to talk about something everyone has in common: they’ll die someday. The group aims to break taboos around discussions of death and dying, and to celebrate being alive.
Councilor, city volunteers launch campaign for ‘yes’ vote on Salem payroll tax
City Council President Virginia Stapleton and volunteer policymakers have formed the “Save Salem Campaign.” An opposition effort has already raised $134,000.
Councilors who voted no on payroll tax address Salem budget questions
With the referendum for payroll tax heading to the November ballot, Salem Reporter sent additional questions to the councilors who voted against the tax about how the city should address a budget shortfall and potential cuts that would occur if the tax was voted down.
UPDATE: Councilors approve plans for west Salem apartment complex
The Salem City Council meets Monday, Aug. 14, at 6 p.m. to consider a motion to host discussions with constituents, plans for a west Salem apartment complex and to hear an update about ongoing infrastructure bond-funded projects.
Where to stay cool in Salem as temperatures hit triple-digits
An excessive heat warning is in effect through Sunday in the Salem area. Here’s where you can access some air conditioning and hydration.
Salem payroll tax heading to November ballot
County officials confirmed Friday that the petition to put the Salem Payroll tax on the November ballot reached the required 3,986 verified signatures to qualify for the election.