Joe Siess
Joe Siess is a reporter for Salem Reporter. Joe joined Salem Reporter in 2024 and primarily covers city and county government but loves surprises. Joe previously reported for the Redmond Spokesman, the Bulletin in Bend, Klamath Falls Herald and News and the Malheur Enterprise. He was born in Independence, MO, where the Oregon Trail officially starts, and grew up in the Kansas City area.
Fire chief says Salem on track for city takeover of ambulance service
Salem has ordered 12 ambulances and plans to hire 52 employees to staff them as the city ends its contract with Falck for ambulance services, Chief Mike Niblock told a new city committee this week.
Court documents show Salem man charged with rape asked spa employees for “sex massage”
Felix Flores Jr., 39, remains in jail after being charged withraping and assaulting female employees at two Salem spas last week.
Brooks garbage incinerator fined for exceeding emissions limits
State regulators said the Brooks plant, which is contracted by Marion County to dispose of much of the county’s garbage, exceeded acceptable pollutant emission levels on multiple occasions. The company has until Sept. 5 to pay the $22,800 fine.
Suspect arrested in sexual assault case, police seek additional victims
A Salem man was arrested and charged in connection with two sexual assault cases which took place at two local massage parlors.
Hoopla 2024 in full swing as thousands converge downtown
Thousands enjoyed a cool Saturday morning full of basketball and community as the 2024 annual Hoopla basketball tournament got underway.
Records show Salem RAM was in disrepair prior to abrupt closure
The Salem RAM, a brewpub that was a community gathering spot for decades, closed in June. Inspection records show a leak into the ceiling led to its collapse last spring and prompted a state safety citation.
Hoopla celebrates 25 years of basketball rivalries, memories in Salem
Over 1,000 basketball teams and 4,500 participants will compete in the 3x3 basketball tournament on popup basketball courts set up on streets around the Capitol.
Consultant suggests community walks, anti-violence messengers to reduce Salem shootings
Dozens gathered in Salem Friday evening for a discussion of possible solutions to rising violence against homeless residents.
Salem police used force slightly less in 2023 while making more arrests
Police department data continues to show racial disparities in the use of force, with Black, Hispanic and Pacific Islander Salemites overrepresented.
Second motorcyclist arrested after shots fired in front of police
A 28-year-old Salem man has been charged with menacing in connection with a motorcycle theft investigation on July 11.