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.
“Hattitude” presentation honors community leader Willie Richardson
The longtime community leader and advocate for education worked to plan an evening celebrating hats and local hat lovers before her death on Jan. 25.
Covid weekly report for Feb. 3: Cases up in Marion, Polk counties
Reports of new Covid cases increased statewide and in Marion and Polk Counties this week. In December, Gov. Kate Brown issued several executive orders intended to provide more resources to health care facilities amid a sustained surge of Covid, flu…
Salem-Keizer NAACP to host civil disobedience training
The non-violent method of protesting was used during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. The free presentation will be on Friday, Feb. 3, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and again Saturday, Feb. 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Overtime firefighters continue to fill in for Falck
The Salem Fire Department will continue to operate an ambulance until Falck can hire enough staff to meet emergency demand in the city. The cost will be covered through patient fees, according to the budget.
City to describe major parking reforms in forum for the community
The city is considering getting rid of its parking mandates, which dictate the number of parking spaces that must go with new buildings. The city’s open house to provide information on the topic will start at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31.
Covid weekly report for Jan. 27: Cases and hospitalizations decrease locally
In the past week, the Oregon Health Authority reports ten newly identified deaths of local residents with Covid.
Salem artist decorates eggs in Ukrainian tradition to support refugees
Jenny Orr first learned how to make pysanky eggs, decorated in Ukrainian tradition, from friends in high school. Now retired, she has raised over $1,600 for war refugees in Salem by selling dozens of the art pieces.
AGENDA: Cherriots considers lowering fares, plans for e-fare
On Thursday, Jan. 26, the Cherriots board will discuss proposals to lower fare on its regional and 1X routes and move to a cashless fare system.
Salem Symphonic Winds and Rainbow Dance Theatre partner for stunning, colorful tango
A show on Sunday, Jan. 29, will feature the “Tango Suite” from Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla’s opera “María de Buenos Aires,” complete with glowing costumes and a rich vocal performance.
YOUR GOVERNMENT: Salem City Council to consider pedestrian, parks projects
The agenda for Monday, Jan. 23, includes decisions for improving pedestrian safety, parks projects and shifting unused federal funding to Marion-Polk Food Share Meals on Wheels. The council will also look at a state plan to extend TriMet rail service to Salem.