By Les Zaitz - Salem Reporter
Les Zaitz is editor and owner of Salem Reporter. He co-founded the news organization in 2018. He has been a journalist in Oregon for more than 50 years in both daily and community newspapers and digital news services. He is nationally recognized for his commitment to local journalism.
Montana procession to escort fallen wildland firefighter from Keizer
Ruben Gonzalez Romero of Keizer planned to retire after one more season as a wildland firefighter, working as a sawyer. He died on a fire line in Montana on Aug. 24.
Greg Smith sued over role in nonprofit scheme, faces third ethics investigation
Greg Smith took a seat on a rural nonrprofit board and then voted to sell a subsidiary to business associates at price well below its value, according to a state lawsuit. Smith is a Republican state representative from Heppner and holds key leadership positions in the Oregon House.
Mannix looks back on tumultous session that left roads at risk
State Rep. Kevin Mannix, a Republican who represents north Salem, supports a special session to address transportation needs after a large package pushed forward by Democrats collapsed.
Keizer councilor won’t face prosecution after May dust-up
Prosecutors have decided not to press a case against Keizer City Councilor Soraida Cross. She was cited for harassment after a woman reported she was injured in a confrontation in May.
Salem police join new approach to citizen-led stings
Law enforcement agencies flag potential drawbacks to "sting" operations conducted by citizens. A new Marion County policy puts in place safeguards.
Greg Smith faces ethics investigation over big pay raise
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission is investigating whether state Rep. Greg Smith violated state law in his efforts to raise his own pay as executive director of the Columbia Development Authority.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Salem wants to raise your taxes. Come find out why
PUBLIC TOWN HALL: Salem voters are being asked to approve an increase in property taxes to cover some city operations. Salem Reporter's Town Hall on Tuesday will give voters information on why.
From Florence to Baker City, Oregonians join ‘Hands Off’ protests
Across Oregon, people gathered i communities of all sizes to demonstrate their unhappiness with President Donald Trump and his policies. Signs, flags and banners carried the message on Saturday, April 5, for the local "Hands Off" demonstrations. Here's a look at those events in Oregon cities.
Police justified in deadly shooting of burglary suspect at Keizer apartment
A Marion County grand jury determined two Salem police officers shot and killed Shawn L. Baker, 42, after he ignored commands to drop a handgun.
Keizer man plans appeal of 3rd murder conviction
A jury convicted Peter J. Zielinski of murder in a third trial, rejecting his claims of extreme emotional disturbance.