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.
Federal grants to Salem homeless services likely to be renewed after court ruling halts drastic policy changes
For over two months, Salem area homeless services that provide shelter and housing to people in the community faced uncertainty over the renewal of expected funding after the Trump administration announced major changes to its grant process. Last week, after a judge found the changes would likely cause "irreparable harm,” the administration reversed course for the time being.
Cherriots general manager to retire
Allan Pollock, general manager of the Salem Area Mass Transit District, announced his intention to retire in the summer. His 19-year tenure includes adding Sunday bus service for the first time in the district’s history, and investing in zero-emission transit solutions.
A morning with the city teams prioritizing humanity, patience at Salem’s homeless camps
As the city’s response to homelessness faces increased scrutiny, Salem Reporter spent a morning riding along with the city’s police and cleaning teams who work closest to the issue. Both now operate seven days a week after a recent temporary funding boost.
Salem protest planned for Saturday in response to Minneapolis ICE shooting
Salem Region Indivisible, which organized previous protests against the Trump administration, is planning a demonstration in response to the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. It will begin at the Oregon State Capitol at noon on Saturday, Jan. 10.
6 exhibits to see at Salem’s galleries, museums in January
This month, Salem’s art galleries and museums will be showing work by printmaker Yuji Hiratsuka, celebrating photography and sharing the history of winemaking in the region.
Oregon Health Plan to remain in network at Salem Health in 2026
Salem Health and PacificSource reached a new contract agreement to cover patients on Medicaid in the new year. A PacificSource spokeswoman confirmed the deal Wednesday, saying it includes Oregon Health Plan members, OHP Bridge and those on the Healthier Oregon program.
Downtown warming shelter to open Monday, Tuesday night
In response to below-freezing weather, The ARCHES Day Center at 615 Commercial St. N.E. will be open for adults from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Monday and Tuesday night and will open its parking lot for family car campers.
TOP STORIES: Sentenced to the Sidewalk, health care challenges
Reporter Abbey McDonald shares insights on her top stories from 2025.
UPDATE: Christmas Eve wind storm expected to be less severe
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory throughout the day on Wednesday, Dec. 24, with gusts expected to reach up to 55 mph. On Tuesday, the city of Salem said that last week’s storm may impact the taste of drinking water, with Salem needing to pull from Keizer’s water sources.
UPDATE: Mill Creek floodwater closes roads, dozens without power Friday afternoon
UPDATE: The level 1 flood evacuation, warning residents near Mill and Pringle creeks to be ready to evacuate, remained active as of Friday afternoon. Several southeast Salem roads are closed, and CASA of Marion County seeks volunteers to help manage a flooded basement.