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.
Salem health care providers expect to see more kids in hospital as respiratory viruses spread
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is not new, but has caused more pediatric hospitalizations this year than usual. In combination with an increase in Covid and flu cases, Salem-area hospitals are prepping to meet a surge of patients.
Loved ones remember “The Potato Lady” of Salem
Lisa Letney, an outspoken advocate for people who are homeless in Salem, died on Nov. 7 leaving behind a legacy of leading with empathy.
Local mentor honored for decades of service to Salem youth
John “Cheeseburger” Witherspoon was recognized by the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Monday for his volunteer work with children, where he has been a coach, mentor and father figure to tens of thousands of students.
YOUR GOVERNMENT: Salem City Council to vote on electric vehicle infrastructure for city fleet
City Council will meet Monday at 6 p.m. and will also consider Municipal Judge Pro Tempore appointments, funding for the tree lighting and Fire Department fees.
Quilters honor Salem veterans at Friday ceremony
“Anybody that’s had a good quilt from a grandma knows how comfortable and warm and calming a quilt can be,” said organizer Mary Williams. “That just says to me: love.”
Covid weekly report for Nov. 11: Local Covid hospitalizations down, new cases up
In the past week, the Oregon Health Authority reports two local deaths of people with Covid.
Public works employee, expert in street chemistry, deals in the strange and stinky
“I have a big nose, so I think I was put on this earth to filter the air and find smells for folks,” says Bill Fear. The longtime city employee was recently recognized for helping a homeowner with a litany of repairs during a heat wave this summer.
Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge and section of trail to temporarily close for restoration
The two-day closure begins Nov. 16.
Salem voters overwhelmingly favor infrastructure package
Preliminary results also show local voters supporting bans on psilocybin facilities in unincorporated areas of Marion and Polk counties.
New Little Free Library at Willamette Heritage Center offers books, crafts
The new structure, offering free educational books and craft supplies, will have a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 1:30 p.m.