Hailey Cook
Hailey Cook joined Salem Reporter in 2025, following the completion of an internship through the University of Oregon’s Charles Snowden Program for Excellence in Journalism. She works as a reporter and photojournalist, with a focus on business and entertainment, among other topics.
PHOTOS: Salem Capitals see fierce competition in first home game of season
The Salem Capitals have a 2-2 record for the 2026 season following their first home games over the weekend. The
City, school district pay thousands more per week for fuel as gas prices climb nationwide
While prices at the pump creep higher for Oregon residents, Cherriots, the city of Salem, the Salem-Keizer School District and Polk County are paying more to keep public vehicles on the road.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
State dollars back Salem airport terminal expansion, emergency upgrades
The legislature approved $1.35 million to fund terminal improvements and emergency infrastructure for the Salem airport as city officials continue their effort to attract a new commercial airliner.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
5 things to do in Salem this week: St. Patrick’s Day walkabout, Salem Capitals game, Franken-stuffy workshop
Events in Salem this week include a downtown walkabout for St. Patrick’s Day, the Salem Capitals’ second home game of the season and a teens’ Frankenstein-style stuffed animal workshop for the no-school day.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Salem Health merger talks trigger concerns over insurance coverage
Hospital leaders have recognized coverage for Regence BlueCross BlueShield as a top concern among residents as Salem Health and Santiam Hospital & Clinics seek state approval for a merger. Executives from both systems addressed questions about the insurance, consolidation and hospital services during a Salem town hall Tuesday.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Organizations plan to ensure some city social services funds help families impacted by ICE
The city of Salem split up its new one-time $200,000 social services fund between four local nonprofits and organizations in an effort to maximize the impact on vulnerable community members.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
PHOTOS: Three Salem seniors take first place in statewide culinary competition
Three Salem seniors secured victory for their school in a statewide culinary competition Monday. The team from the Career Technical Education Center, a vocational high school, was one of the smallest to compete in the Oregon ProStart Championships at the…
Salem concert spotlights women singers for Women’s History Month
A concert series featuring eight women singers from across the Pacific Northwest will touch down in Salem Friday, March 6, at the Grand Theatre. The show, happening in Salem, Portland and Eugene, centers women artists during Women’s History Month.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Updates on Willamette baseball field renovations, food share move, Dollar General warehouse
Renovations are nearly complete on Willamette University's baseball field, which will also be used by local schools.
Salem Reporter is returning to that and other past stories this month to provide brief updates.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Salem Health, Santiam Hospital host local town hall on merger
Salem Health and Santiam Hospital & Clinics will have a town hall about their proposed merger in Salem Tuesday, March 3, at 4:30 p.m at the Salem Public Library. People can submit questions for CEOs of both hospital systems ahead of the event.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.