Abbey McDonald’s investigative series on the death of an unsheltered woman in Salem won first place in the 2025 Northwest Excellence in Journalism competition. It is one of the most competitive regional Society of Professional Journalists regional contests in the nation. Reporter Hailey Cook placed second in a photo category for her photos at a…

A progressive political consultant alleged that Betsy Vega, the likely winner in a Salem City Council race, misled city and county officials into certifying her as a candidate. The path to resolve the matter remains unclear as city, county and state officials consider the allegations and determine next steps. To comment on this story, use…

Vanessa Duarte Ignacio is graduating from the cosmetology program at the Career Technical Education Center with plans to open her own salon while working as a sheriff’s deputy. While learning how to give facials and dye hair, she also worked to bring students from different programs together. To comment on this story, use the form…

At the second meeting of Gov. Kotek’s Transportation Vision Workgroup, members spent hours discussing how to change public perception of the state transportation agency.

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Events in Salem this week include the Oregon Humane Society’s Doggie Dash fundraiser, the First Friday Art Walk through downtown and a special 90-minute tour of Bush House Museum.

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It has been one year since 12 people were injured in a mass stabbing at Salem’s Union Gospel Mission. After changes to security and city policy, the emotional toll remains the biggest challenge for shelter staff and guests.

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Gov. Tina Kotek’s directive followed the Trump administration suing the state last week over the issue.

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A McNary High School graduating senior started her freshman year wanting to help more than just her peers and make a difference in the bigger Keizer community. Since then, Allyssa Christensen has organized blood drives, brought veterans to McNary classes and been a symbol of empathy and generosity. To comment on this story, use the…

Isabella Morrow, a senior graduating from Sprague High School, has spent her senior year setting a new standard for the role of student body president, according to her teacher Chris Trammell. She plans to bring her love for service and teaching with her when she starts college. To comment on this story, use the form…

Longtime Salem insider Chip Terhune scored a great gig. Last month, without warning, he was gone.

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PUBLIC NOTICE: This notice is published to meet the requirement of Oregon law for publication so the public is aware. This notice is delivered as a service for a fee by Salem Reporter. The notifying party is solely responsible for its content.

The city’s Urban Renewal Agency has continued talks about the possibility of setting up a new Urban Renewal Area for the North Waterfront district north of downtown. The idea was first pitched in 2024 and conversations resumed during a work session on Monday, May 18. To comment on this story, use the form at the…

SPECIAL REPORT: Following a push by city officials to address homelessness, a new team is connecting with people in crisis on Salem’s streets. Results are encouraging, officials say. Salem Reporter got an exclusive look at the team, shadowing its members over two days. To comment on this story, use the form at the end of…

Kindergarteners across Oregon can participate in the state treasury’s new “Kinder Grad” program. If they open a college savings account and deposit $25, the state will deposit $100 more.

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The Oregon Secretary of State’s office is looking into allegations that Betsy Vega, the candidate poised to win a seat on the Salem City Council, changed her residence in November without informing election officials. It is unclear where she currently lives and Salem officials are waiting for state guidance to decide next steps. To comment…

Isaac Reynolds, a graduating senior, is a member of the top bands and choirs at McKay High School, where he holds multiple leadership positions. He’s known for his steady wisdom and ability to bring out the best in his fellow performers.

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Starting June 1, everyone applying for or renewing their federal food benefits will have to complete an interview with state human services staff. Since the pandemic, there has been flexibility for seniors and other specific groups.

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A graduating North Salem High School senior is on track to become Pentacle Theatre’s youngest-ever choreographer following a successful stint in her school’s theatre department.

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Salem city councilors voted unanimously to move forward with a plan for the possibility of implementing new rules on decorum and using metal detectors at public meetings. Councilors will also get a status update on a new city initiative to combat the effects of substance use in Salem. To comment on this story, use the…

The Salem Police Department announced Tuesday that they arrested a 16-year-old in connection with a Wednesday, May 20, downtown shooting that sent another teenager to the hospital.

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PUBLIC NOTICE: This notice is published to meet the requirement of Oregon law for publication so the public is aware. This notice is delivered as a service for a fee by Salem Reporter. The notifying party is solely responsible for its content.