12.2.2006

The last few days have been some of the busiest of the campaign so
far. They have also been wonderful. Monday's visits included stops
in Brookings and Medford. In Brookings I met with county supporters
and thanked the volunteers who have been working so hard making calls
to get out the vote. I also had the opportunity to tour the
operations at South Coast Lumber, a business that has been in Oregon
for generations. Touring their highly-automated mill was definitely a
highlight! I am always amazed at the ever-advancing technologies used
in our natural resources industry.

My stop in Medford included a wonderful tour of Harry and David. I got to
meet employees in the administrative, finance and IT departments, as
well as in the bakery, packing areas, warehouses, and--my personal
favorite--the candy research and development lab.

Yesterday included tours and speeches at various business around the
Portland Metro Area. I toured and mingled with employees at
Blount/Oregon Cutting Systems, Western Family Foods, and the Timber
Operators Council.

Yesterday I also had the opportunity to again welcome Massachusetts Governor
Mitt Romney, chairman of the Republican Governors Association, who came to
Portland to campaign for me. We had a rally and press conference at our
campaign headquarters and then went to the food court in Pioneer Place mall
to meet folks during their lunch break. Governor Romney's bipartisan work
in Massachusetts is a great example of change that is desperately needed in
Oregon. Thanks to Governor Romney for his help!

Of course, since it was Halloween, I finished Tuesday by going
trick-or-treating with some friends and their kids in downtown West Linn.

Yesterday was a whirlwind, starting out in Portland and going to
bed in Eugene with stops in Enterprise, Pendleton, La Grande and Bend along
the way. I spoke to supporters at community rallies in Enterprise,
Pendleton and La Grande, with Congressman Greg Walden joining me at the last
two. I then hopped down to Bend and to thank volunteers at a phone bank at
the Deschutes County GOP office who have given hours of their time to help
get out the vote.

When we got to Eugene, I met up with Senator Gordon Smith and we stopped at
the Lane County GOP office to thank volunteers there as well. I cannot
express my gratitude to the many volunteers who are helping me with this
race.

The rest of this week promises to be busy as well with stops in Eugene,
Springfield, Albany, Salem and Beaverton today and then back down I-5
tomorrow in Roseburg, Grants Pass and Medford.

Thanks for reading and please encourage your friends and family to turn
their ballots in and--of course--vote Saxton!

10.29.2006

What an incredible day I had today! After an early morning interview with Jeff Kropf on his radio show, Weekend Edition Live, I headed south down I-5 with my son for the Oregon State University football game against USC. As we pulled up near the center of Beaver Nation, we passed a large group of enthusiastic volunteers waving Saxton field signs at an intersection, who erupted into cheers when we drove by and talked with them. They were getting a lot of cheers and thumbs up from passers-by; what a nice way to be welcomed to Corvallis!

We spent the pre-game time walking through the tailgating areas outside the stadium, with a flock of eager College Republican Beavers with us, passing out stickers and pamphlets to the thousands of fans who greeted us with smiles, cheers, thumbs up, and, of course, BBQ. The Beaver Nation fans know that whether in Salem or on the field, it takes a leader to get things done, and they know I will bring leadership into the governor's office.

The atmosphere was electric before the game, but as OSU took a 7-0 lead in the first few minutes of the game, then intercepted a USC pass in the endzone for a 50 yard return to setup a field goal, the crowd was on their feet, yelling at the top of their lungs. Huge congratulations to the Beavers for upsetting the 3rd ranked Trojans, handing them their first conference loss in 27 games!

We then headed down to Eugene, to watch the UO Ducks take on the PSU Vikings. We were very pleased to see a large amount of Vikings fans that made the trek down to Eugene to support their team, and while there were two Oregon teams playing each other in an intense game, the true Oregon spirit shone through when they announced the OSU score at Autzen, and the whole crowd erupted in cheers. As to my thoughts on the outcome of the UO/PSU game...I'll leave it at the fact that I wore green and enjoyed the afternoon talking with many Oregonians.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit different churches around Portland. I loved the chance to observe different religious communities throughout the area and mingle with their congregations. After visiting the churches, Lynne and I went to meet and greet people at the Lakeview Farms Pumpkin Patch in North Plains. Although it was cold and windy, we had a great time talking with families as they were enjoying the festive atmosphere and picking out pumpkins.

Stay tuned for more froom Brookings and Medford! As always, thanks for reading and PLEASE remember to turn in your ballots!

10.24.2006

Today was a long, but exciting day.

I flew this morning from the Aurora Airport to Redmond. I never get tired of being able to see this state's gorgeous scenery, and the break of day is about a perfect time to do it (when it's clear, of course).

I went down to Bend first to do some radio interviews at a number of stations and chatted with a number of people. After radio time in Bend, I went back to Redmond for a couple of meetings. First I toured the brand new Tom McCall Elementary School - and no, not just because I want his old job. The school is a wonderful example of innovation in design that you see in so many new schools today. And it's also an unfortunately good example of a key problem in this state - they have a brand new school with classrooms that are empty, but they can't afford the teachers to fill them and have wound up with very large class sizes. A perfect example of how important it is that we get more money directed into classrooms so students can have smaller class sizes. At Tom McCall, I spoke with a class of 2nd graders who all (no joke, all) eagerly raised their hands when I like who enjoyed math and who enjoyed reading. After that, we went to a 5th grade class that had fantastic questions about what the governor does, why I want to be governor and...importantly...whether or not I would raise gas prices (the answer is, of course, "no"). Following my visit to Tom McCall, I went to a meeting with community leaders - including Redmond Superintendent Vicki Fleming, State Representative Gene Whisnant, Mayor Allan Unger, and others - to talk about growth issues in Redmond and the impact this has on schools, development and costs in general.

I then left Redmond and flew down to Medford to get ready for my final debate with Governor Kulongoski before the election. But before we were able to settle in and focus on the debate, I first did an interview with Jeff Golden for Southern Oregon Public Television. It was great to chat with Jeff about a variety of issues facing the state and the half-hour interview flew by. After the interview, I had a little bit of down time to focus on the debate...which was a long one at 90 minutes. I thought this debate - like the others - offered Oregonians a very clear picture of both candidates. It helps make the choice facing voters a clear one - do you want more of the same and the status quo, or do you want change. Overwhelmingly people tell me they want change. I'm not going to lie - the debate didn't exactly "fly by" like the SOPTV interview, but it was a fun debate and we talked about a lot of issues. Many thanks to the sponsors and host of the debate (KOBI) and those who worked with them to bring the debate to all Oregonians.

Afterward, I stopped by the debate-watching party at our phone bank location and thanked the many wonderful supporters there to watch the debate and cheer me on. The event was great and I again want to thank everyone who took time to watch the debate.

10.19.2006

What a busy week I've had! I started out at the beach Monday morning, with a cinnamon roll and newspaper interview in Newport. After the interview we drove to Corvallis where I got on a plane and headed south to Roseburg. I spoke at the Roseburg Chamber of Commerce's Gubernatorial Forum - which the governor declined to attend - about my plans for bringing leadership back to Oregon and the change needed at the top. I then went back to Corvallis for a newspaper interview.

After that, we drove down to Eugene for a couple of TV interviews and a rally at the Lane County GOP headquarters. A big "thanks" to the Lane County Republicans for their great energy and support! What an enthusiastic group (I think more than 80) who attended the event. There are only days left in this campaign and every volunteer hour counts.

Also in Eugene I spoke at the annual conference of the Manufactured Housing Communities of Oregon. The group of nearly 200 was very welcoming and I enjoyed being able to speak to them as well as answer questions they had about the economy, property rights and the leadership in Oregon in general.

The next day was the KGW/Oregonian debate between me and Ted Kulongoski. I thought it was a great debate that really gave voters a chance to see clear distinctions between us on leadership abilities and styles, management experience, taxes, plans for education, economic development, health care and a host of other issues. After the debate, I met up with a bunch of supporters who had attended a debate-watching party. I have to admit, it's a great feeling to walk into a room of cheering supporters after a successful debate.

Yesterday began with a meeting with folks in the agriculture industry. We talked about immigration and their concerns, which I share, for having an available workforce. Last night was definitely one of the highlights of the campaign. I had the opportunity to do a "ride-along" with an Oregon State Police trooper in Columbia County. It was a tremendous opportunity to see what an OSP trooper faces day in and day out. In response to an accident that occurred during my ride-along, I got to see firsthand the interaction between various public safety and first response agencies as well as the hospital's ER. The night only reinforced what I've been saying all along - the OSP is not something that should be handled politically and games shouldn't be played with their funding. We owe it to them and to the communities they protect to provide the funding they need.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more about tonight's travels in McMinnville and Newberg and tomorrow's trip to Bend, Baker City and Medford.

10.14.2006

I'm writing following a very successful debate against Governor Ted Kulongoski hosted by the City Club of Portland yesterday afternoon (I admit I wasn't actually "traveling on the road" yesterday, but it was still interesting...and as you will see below, my wife was on the road).

The debate made even clearer the differences between Ted and me in how we'll lead this state. The gist: while I was as optimistic as most Oregonians when he took office in 2003 about what he'd do for Oregon, I am tremendously
frustrated and disappointed that we haven't seen any leadership out of the governor's office and the state of our state.

I talked again about the key themes of my campaign. We need leadership to foster a collaborative relationship in Oregon that will steer us toward great - not just mediocre - schools, restoration of the State Police, and an economy that is growing and prospering.

It was a great debate and I look forward to our next one, which will be on Tuesday, October 17 hosted by KGW and The Oregonian. It will be televised.

As I mentioned, Lynne, my wife, was on the road yesterday in Salem and Albany visiting with the Oregon Alliance of Children's Programs as well as area businesses to talk about the need for change in Oregon's leadership.

Speaking of the need for change in Oregon's leadership - the campaign got some great news this morning. The Oregonian has endorsed my campaign for governor. I've posted a transcription of the endorsement on this site and you'll be able to look at the whole thing at www.oregonlive.com tomorrow (it's in Sunday's edition of the paper).

As always - thanks for reading. Stay tuned for notes from my time on the road this week in Newport, Corvallis, Roseburg, Eugene, Medford, Scappoose, Bend, Baker City and Klamath Falls.

10.8.2006

I started this morning pretty early with a flight at sunrise out of the Portland airport east to Hermiston. Flying at sunrise might be amazing anywhere, but I have a hard time believing that it could be better than the view of Mt. Hood and the Cascade Range both to the north and south.

We landed in Hermiston to a welcome party of supporters waving Saxton signs. We knew where the terminal was, that's for sure! We all hopped into cars and drove to the Pheasant Cafe where about 40 folks from the community joined me for breakfast and a discussion about the race and the issues at hand. We talked about everything from immigration to taxes.

I then took off and went to La Grande where Commissioner John Lamoreau picked us up and we headed to the Boise Cascade mill for a tour of their facility. This company is a great example of a business being a great neighbor to the community and doing innovative things to bring themselves into the 21st century. We spent quite a bit of time on the tour talking about the new boiler they're installing. This boiler allows them to use virtually every piece of scrap wood for fuel, and burns it in a way that is totally clean. In addition to being environmentally sound, the project has saved the plant's jobs (well over 300) and even added a few more jobs using Oregon contractors to install the equipment.

After leaving Boise Cascade we drove to Hot Lake where Lee, David and Langdon Manuel opened up their facility to a reception with several dozen folks. If you haven't been out to Hot Lake, you should definitely check it out. There is an actual, well, hot lake (you can actually hear the water boiling) that has some of the richest history of any Oregon landmark. The Manuels are renovating the hold hospital and doing a fantastic job. They've gotten sponsors from all over the United States and some throughout the world as well, and it's definitely worth taking the time to go see. I want to thank the Manuels for the beautiful print they gave me of one of David’s paintings. He's such a gifted artist - I'm honored to have it.

I left La Grande and flew down to Ontario where I was greeted by another welcome group. We hopped in a van and drove to Frohm Packaging to see their onion packaging process in action. Congressman Greg Walden met up with us at the plant for the remainder of our afternoon and evening. I have to admit, I was definitely in the mood for some onion rings by the time we left.

We ended the evening at a great gathering of friends and supporters at the Grange. The food was terrific and the Hall was decorated with Saxton and Walden signs all over the place. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the kind words of introduction Congressman Walden gave before I spoke to the group. The folks in Oregon's 2nd congressional district are lucky to have him, and I can't wait to work with him as governor. I spoke for a little bit and took some questions from the audience before finally saying goodnight and heading back to the airport.

I settled back into the plane to do some reading on the flight home and enjoy the amazing view from 10,000 feet up with a full moon. Although I think the flight back might have taken a little longer than it should have thanks to the generosity of Jan Kerns and Rod and Trevor Frohm - they loaded us down with some Baker County potatoes and freshly-packed onions from Ontario. But the extra time was worth it - they'll taste great.

10.7.2006

Last week Lynne began an extended tour of the state. In addition to the campaigning she's been doing within short and long drives of our home in Portland, she kicked off her tour in Hood River and The Dalles.

And what better way to start a swing through The Dalles and Hood River than with Mylene Walden, wife of Congressman Greg Walden. Among the stops Lynne and Mylene made were a build for Habitat for Humanity, reading to kids at the local library, a tour of Columbia Gorge Community College's Rural Clinical Simulation Center, and a stop by the Duckwall Pooley fruit processing plant. Last Saturday, she addressed the OFRW board meeting in Bend.

Lynne's dedication and energy still amaze me. In addition to the campaign, she continues to work full-time as the Executive Director of the Christie School here in town.

This week she worked her way south, meeting with board members at Family Building Blocks in Salem and addressing the Rubicon Society in Eugene - I am told that the crowd at this week's meeting was one of the organization's largest! From Eugene she went to Myrtle Creek and Roseburg. Rep. Susan Morgan invited Lynne to the Myrtle Creek Chamber of Commerce meeting where she met and spoke with members. Then it was back to Roseburg for the Douglas County Republican Central Committee meeting where I am told Lynne and Rep. Bruce Hanna fired up the troops! Both Susan and Bruce have been great supporters and I look forward to working with them in Salem!

On Friday, Lynne met with the Josephine County Commissioners and visited Rough and Ready Lumber in Cave Junction, as well as Fire Mountain Gems in Grants Pass. The Day ended with a public event at Bridgeview Winery hosted by the Jackson and Josephine Republican parties.

Next week Lynne is heading to Bend and Redmond, then to Salem, Albany and Corvallis.

10.3.2006

This week I'm back on the road traveling to all parts of the state to meet with folks and talk to people about my campaign and the many important issues facing Oregon. Yesterday morning I left bright and early and flew to Medford. After grabbing something to eat downtown and spending a little time with folks from the Medford Mail Tribune, I went and spoke at the candidates forum sponsored by The Chamber of Medford/Jackson County. A big thanks to The Chamber for a warm welcome and a great event.There were a lot of people at the Rogue Valley Country Club to hear me - and the governor - talk about what we think the most important issues facing Oregonians are. After speaking for a little bit, I took questions since I want to make sure Oregonians are hearing about the topics important to them. Having been in Medford more than 20 times so far in 2006, I saw a lot of familiar faces, but it was also great to meet some new folks as well.

From Medford I went to Gold Beach to meet up with Representative Wayne Krieger and his wife, Colleen. The Kriegers and I went on a fascinating tour of Freeman Marine Equipment in Gold Beach. Doogie Freeman took us around their facility which is an amazing company and a true Oregon success story. Doogie's hard work and innovation has led to Freeman Marine becoming a worldwide leader in items such as hatches and doors for all sorts of marine vessels - everything from Coast Guard boats to commercial fishing vessels to personal yachts.Freeman does business in more than 50 countries and the hard working folks at the company were very welcoming and I'm glad I got the opportunity to see first-hand their custom manufacturing process. After touring Freeman we went to a community gathering at Gold Beach Books where I spoke with a group of folks from the area about the race and issues impacting the south coast.

After Gold Beach, I went up to Coos Bay and had dinner with some friends last night at Benetti's before a busy morning there today. Wonderful food! And I'm not just saying that because Mayor Benetti was there with me. I started with a 6:30 AM radio interview and then went to a breakfast at the Red Lion with the Kriegers, County Commissioners John Griffith and Nikki Whitty, and several other folks from the Port, the community college and the local community. I mainly used the opportunity to ask them their thoughts on the issues impacting the state and the local region. All too often I think politicians just barge into town and tell people how it ought to be without asking those from the area how they think it should be. With so many important issues, I wanted to hear from folks about what's important as well as share with them my vision for a better Oregon.

Following breakfast a group of us went on a tour of the International Port of Coos Bay and the North Spit to see the progress being made on their projects and discuss some of the issues that impact the Port, including marine issues, trade, economic development, and transportation. They are doing a fantastic job at the Port. We also went on a tour of the airport, which continues to grow in order to meet the expanding needs of the area.

After the tour I spoke at the Coos Bay Rotary meeting which had a terrific crowd, and then drove a little north to Florence. There I stopped at Bliss for a rally with the West Lane Republicans. What terrific supporters. They have been so helpful and it was great to spend a little time with them getting caught up and talking about the final few weeks of this very important election. We then drove over to Eugene where I did an hour-long live radio show on KLCC. These last two days were very busy and I covered a lot of ground, but they were very informative and a ton of fun.

Tomorrow I'm off to Salem and then back to Portland for a couple of days before Friday, when I head to eastern Oregon to meet with folks in Hermiston, La Grande and Ontario. Check back for more notes from the road!

10.2.2006

I am writing after a very busy couple of days and a great weekend. I have been touring businesses and meeting employees all over the state. Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to meet with members of the high-tech sector at Electro Scientific Industries where I talked about the ways in which the state can improve its support of education and business. The high-tech businesspeople shared their feelings about where they can receive more help from the Governor's office as well.

Later Wednesday evening we had the pleasure of welcoming Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to Portland. We had a fundraiser in Hillsboro with live blues music, BBQ and a great speech from Governor Huckabee. He even got up with the band and played the bass for a few sets! Governor Huckabee spoke about the possibilities for Oregon under new leadership and the importance of making sure our beautiful state lives up to its potential. A big thank you to Governor Huckabee for coming to Oregon in support of my campaign.

Thursday marked the first debate of this fall's race. Governor Kulongoski and I debated about children's issues at the OPB/Stand for Children Debate, taped at OPB's studios in Portland. While the Governor suggested that more taxes are the solution to most of the State's problems, I talked about my ideas of cutting costs, running government more efficiently and adding accountability into our system to make sure that dollars are being spent responsibly. Oregon has no shortage of money and has a great number of extremely talented people; we just need to make sure that our resources are put to their best uses.

That night I gave a speech to a volunteer rally organized by the Washington County Central Committee. Thanks to all of the volunteers who are working for a victory in November! It is inspiring to see so many enthusiastic people who are working toward the common goal of bringing leadership to Oregon.

Friday included a drive to Skamania for a speech to the Oregon Grocers Association's Annual convention, a speech to the Canby Rotary and a tour of American Medical Response Ambulance Services' headquarters. AMR is a great asset to Oregon and I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to take a look at their operation and shake hands with so many of their employees.


Over the weekend' I was in Klamath Falls to meet a group of farmers and ranchers involved with Water for Life. Water for Life is an organization comprised of people in the agribusiness who have come together to advocate on state water usage issues. We sat down and talked about statewide water issues and how water usage is crucially important not only to the Klamath Basin but to the entire state as well. How we use our water is especially important for insuring that Oregon's agribusiness thrives in the future. I should also mention that Oregon State Representative Jeff Kropf flew me down and back from Klamath Falls in his beautiful historic plane. Thanks to Representative Kropf for his generosity!

Stay tuned this week to hear about travels in Medford, Coos Bay, Eugene, Hermiston and LaGrande, just to name a few of our upcoming stops!

9.27.2006

The past three days have been full of wonderful visits from Bend to Albany and Eugene to Carlton. I love this time of year in Oregon, when nights get longer and colder and the leaves start changing colors. Fall is definitely upon us and traveling around our beautiful state at this time of year is a great privilege.

On Sunday afternoon I attended a fundraising event in Sisters where I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful supporters and talk to people about Oregon's potential under new leadership. The following morning, I went for a tour of Fuqua Homes' manufacturing facility in Bend. Fuqua is a great example of an Oregon company thriving in a growing area. After Fuqua, I went to Bend to tour Columbia Aircraft. Columbia makes fast, small planes and I cannot wait for a ride in one during my next visit.

From Redmond we drove to Corvallis, where I spoke with students at OSU about higher education funding and my plan for change in Oregon. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet lots of students and professors and I appreciated their thoughtful questions about what the Saxton Administration will do for higher education.

Yesterday's last stop was in Eugene. There I gave a speech to the Central Lane County Republicans at the GOP Women's dinner. I answered questions about PERS, illegal immigration and taxes, not to mention enjoyed a wonderful meal. Thanks to Kay Riddley and her crew of GOP Women for the chance to speak at a wonderful event!

Today began with an early television interview in Eugene, followed by a visit at Lane Community College. I sat down with members of the administration and the board and learned about LCC's fantastic achievements. LCC's health clinic has drastically reduced the cost of the college's health insurance, while at the same time widening the scope of patients provided for to include staff as well as students. They have achieved this simply by thinking outside of the box and using innovative practices to provide better services cheaper. This is a wonderful example of a method that we could apply to so many
different areas in Oregon, resulting in a drastic cutting of costs and an improvement in quality. Following this discussion, the administration took me on a tour of the school's nursing program. I loved the chance to see LCC's prized nursing labs. The college has a very good program with great students and great turnout, however there are many areas where the state could step in to help enhance students' experiences.

Continuing our busy day we went to the Samaritan General Hospital in Albany. There, I spoke a few words about my mom at a plaque dedication ceremony in her honor at the cardiac unit.

Next we were off to Salem for a speech at Associated Oregon Industries. Today's AOI event was initially intended to be a candidate showcase, however the Governor backed out leaving only myself. Unfortunately, this is not unusual. The Governor has backed out of the vast majority of our joint appearances and I think that this is unfair to Oregonians. Voters deserve to see us together a number of times in order to decide who will lead Oregon down the best path.

I ended today at a meet and greet with people in the wine industry, hazelnut growers and nurserymen in Carlton. I listened to their concerns and suggestions and discussed the possibilities for help from the Governor's Office in their businesses. The agriculture sector in Oregon is such an important part of the economy - we cannot forget these core industries as we focus on economic development.

More good news from the campaign trail, and it will only get busier from here on out. Thanks for reading and more tomorrow.

9.21.06

What a busy day! I started out this morning in Newberg at the Newberg Early Bird's Rotary meeting. I had fun meeting old friends and new supporters. After the roatry event, I went on a wonderful tour of A-dec, a large dental equipment manufacturer in Newberg. A-dec is a fabulous business and absolutely deserves its ranking as one of Oregon's best workplaces year after year. A-dec is a company committed to helping its employees, which is the reason so many employees have been there for a long time, including many who shared that they've been there for more than 20 years. A-dec is truly one of Oregon's wonderful business assets and they are doing a tremendous job.

From A-dec. we went to Sherwood to tour the Milgard Window factory. I had the opportunity to meet with the factory manager, as well as talk and shake hands with all of the employees during a break. I spoke with Milgard's employees about taxes, the need for change in the way we operate state government, and my vision for leading Oregon toward its potential. Milgard is another wonderful operation and the Sherwood location has been voted best and safest location in the entire corporation for multiple years.

After Milgard, I gave a speech at the North Clackamas Chamber of Commerce Forum Lunch. Here, I again spoke about the need for strong leadership in Oregon and answered questions on my plans as Governor.

I was able to squeeze some work in this afternoon before the drive down to Salem, where I toasted and presented a Boy Scout award to an old friend from Albany. Following the Boy Scout event, we drove down to Eugene in preparation for a busy day tomorrow. We'll start out in Eugene and work our way down to Medford.

9.20.2006

I am writing to you after a great day of traveling through Albany, Springfield and Eugene. I always love going back to my hometown of Albany and I had to start this morning as I have started many mornings in the past: with a delicious maple bar from Mary Anna's Bakery downtown on 1st Street. Mary Anna's has some of the best maple bars out there.

After driving through downtown Albany, I had a live radio interview at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center. I spoke about a number of issues including education, taxes, public safety and the need for leadership in Oregon.

After the interview, I gave a speech at the Albany Chamber of Commerce Membership Forum Luncheon, also in the Expo Center. What an experience to have such an enthusiastic and supportive crowd in my hometown! I shared stories from my childhood in Albany and again emphasized the lack of leadership in our state and shared my ideas about how we can improve the direction we're heading.

Next on our schedule were a few stops in Springfield and Eugene, but I had to make a detour on the way. I never can turn down a cinnamon roll from Randy's Cafe in Brownsville. Randy serves fresh-baked cinnamon rolls and other breads that are absolutely delicious. I would recommend stopping by whenever you are in the area. Randy is always there. Tell him that Ron recommended it.

Notice today's pastry theme?

From Brownsville we were off to Springfield, where I shook hands with members of a construction crew during a shift-change at Sacred Heart Medical Center's River Bend construction site. This was a great opportunity to meet several construction workers and hear their thoughts about the campaign and this fall's very important election.

I ended the day at a fundraising gathering with some friends in Eugene and the drive back to Portland. I'll be off very early tomorrow morning for stops in Newberg, Clackamas and Salem. Thanks for reading and make sure to check-in tomorrow night!

9.16.06

Yesterday and today have been wonderful days in Pendleton. On our drive over, we stopped in The Dalles for lunch with local people involved in agribusiness, where we chatted about issues in their industry. After arriving in Pendleton, we went to a Round-Up Hall of Fame BBQ. I loved the chance to walk around and talk to people, and even had my picture taken with a rodeo clown (here for a rodeo clown reunion). I cannot forget to mention the delicious BBQ ribs and fresh Hermiston melon!

After the BBQ, we went to an OSU event right in downtown Pendleton. It was great to see so many people excited for the Round-Up festivities. Even had the opportunity to pose for a picture with OSU's baseball coach, Pat Casey.

This morning, Lynne and I rode in a horse-drawn buggy in the Westward Ho Parade. We had a great time waving at all the parade-goers, and would like to thank our drivers for their generous help. After the parade and a lunch with friends and supporters, we went to the Round-Up for the real show. The bull-riding, Indian Relay and broncos were all highlights. What a fun event!

The Pendleton Round-Up is a wonderful tradition and I especially enjoy seeing so many Oregonians so excited about it and all of its accompanying events. In the morning we are off to Eugene for the University of Oregon/Oklahoma football game. More tomorrow!

9.8.06

Our "Back to School" Education Tour culminated in yet another wonderful day. I had the great pleasure of taking my wife Lynne with me on my tours of schools in Polk, Marion and Yamhill Counties. First thing in the morning we toured LaCreole Middle School in Dallas with the Polk County Superintendent. LaCreole is a beautiful facility with friendly and outgoing students. I was struck by the politenes of the many students who came up to shake my hand. After the middle school, we went to Dallas High School for a quick look at the campus and a chat with the principal.
Following our stop in Dallas, I had a pres conference on the steps of the Oregon State Capital Building, where I spoke about my plans for Oregon's education system. You can read various media coverage of the press conference in the media section of my website.
After the press conference, we went to tour the Salem-Keizer Early College High School on the Chemeketa Community College campus. What a neat program! This program is for students who require some level of additional preparation before heading off to college and allows them to stay an extra year in a college-like high school environment. Students leave prepared for the rigors of a college curriculum. I had the opportunity to speak to classes of students as well as answer their questions.
Leaving Salem, we made a stop at the Salem 9/11 Memorial on our way to McMinnville. This was a moving and fitting tribute to those lost in the 9/11 attacks. Once in McMinnville, I toured McMinnville High School. After the tour, I spoke to an assembly of students about leadership and the importance of getting involved politically at a young age. I appreciated the chance to share my visit with two reporters from the school's newspaper, the acclaimed Bruin. Lastly, I had a conversation with members of the administration and representatives from the school district. In inquired about thier needs and shared my ideas about how a strong governor can help them out.

In the evening, we had the "Rally for Ron" at SoLo in the Pearl District. Live music, delicious food and lots of enthusiastic supporters made for an absolutely wonderful night. A special thanks to the fabulous Miller Brothers Band for their musical entertainment.

I am ending the "Back to School" Tour energetic and optimistic. Oregonians want change. Now is the time. Together, we can make Oregon an even better place. Thanks for reading and stay tuned this week for more "Notes from the Road".

9.7.06

Today was a beautiful day full of visits in Linn County and around my home town of Albany. I started out this morning with a visit at Oregon Connections Academy, a charter school in Scio. These guys are doing a great job. Not every child fits into traditional educational molds, and ORCA caters to these individuals. Their program, around 1,200 students strong, is highly successful despite being relatively young.

From Scio, we traveled to Lacomb to tour the Lacomb School with the principal and administrators from the Linn Community School District. What an innovative program! Here, students are not advanced according to age, but rather according to performance.

After touring Lacomb, we went to Lebanon High School, another highly innovative place. LHS is divided into four different academies and students pick a concentration in an academy based on interests. LHS also has very high success rates, and its unique program allows students to choose an educational theme that best aligns with their interests.

And of course, since it was such a nice afternoon, I had to stop at the Hasty Freeze in Albany for an ice cream cone. I used to go there as a kid growing up and I still enjoy it today.

I learned a great deal today and it was very interesting to have the opportunity to observe some innovative and alternative methods of education. Again, I discovered that one thing is unanimous throughout all the schools I have toured thus far: each one could use more help from the Governor's Office. More tomorrow from Polk, Marion and Yamhill Counties. Thanks for reading.

9.6.06

Another absolutely wonderful day on the road. I woke up early to a beautiful day in Roseburg, had breakfast and ran into old friends at Elmer's. My first education event of the day was a tour of Winston Middle School, a wonderful 7th and 8th grade school in Douglas County. I had the opportunity to speak about the importance of education to students at the school's first assembly of the year. The principal and staff at Winston are doing a fabulous job molding the 7th and 8th graders into fine young men and women. Two delightful young ladies from the school newspaper interviewed me on topics such as why I am running for governor and my favorite movies.

From Winston, we drove to Myrtle Creek to tour South Umpqua High School. What a beautiful setting for a school. There, I spoke to two classes about leadership and success in life. The students in the government and leadership classes were a very captive audience and asked well-informed questions about Oregon's gubernatorial race. Two students from the newspaper trailed me throughout my tour and then interviewed me about my education tour and stop at SUHS. I'm very much looking forward to reading their account of my visit.

Following this visit, I got caught up on some work and then went on to a packed house at the Umpqua Valley Republican Women's Monthly Luncheon. What a fantastic crowd of enthusiastic people! I gave a speech to the group focused on the extreme importance of electing a new governor in Oregon. A big thanks to the Umpqua Valley Republican Women for their incredible support.

In the afternoon, I met with superintendents of the various school districts around Douglas County and talked about what the state can do better to help schools do their job. We all agree that it will take more than just money. For more information on my education policy, you can read my Education White Paper in the "Issues" section of our website.

I spent the evening in Eugene before heading to Albany where I will begin another busy day tomorrow.

9.5.06

Today, I have had the great experience of kicking off our "Back to School" Education Tour. I started out first thing this morning with Rosemary and Garth on their radio show on KCMX in Medford. After that, I had another radio interview in the car with Bill Meyer on KMED on the way to North Medford High School. There, I toured with administrators and had the chance to visit with freshman during their first day of high school. There is such a buzz of excitement in schools on the first day of school. I love it! Hats off to the Link Crew for doing a great job of helping out the freshman class on their first day! I spoke with administrators about the school’s various needs and how we can ensure that the students receive the best education possible.

Next we went to Jackson Elementary School, which is achieving wonderful things, especially considering that it was supposed to be closed in previous years. I spoke with classes of kindergartners and second graders and even signed some autographs. I also met a young transfer student from Sunshine, my own grade school in Albany. I appreciated the chance to speak with a group of mothers and volunteers at Jackson about the programs they have been working on to ensure that all students have a wonderful experience. They are doing a truly fabulous job and deserve a great deal of recognition for their hard work.

Continuing the busy day, we drove to Grants Pass for lunch and a rally at the Josephine County GOP Headquarters. The volunteers there are working hard and providing invaluable help. Thanks to them for all their efforts! From there I went across the street to the Grants Pass Daily Courier for an interview. Next, we were off to Roseburg, where I met with a group to learn about the proposed LNG pipeline from Coos Bay. I ended the day at the beautiful Melrose Winery, with wonderful people and delicious food.

Today was fantastic. It is always inspiring to meet enthusiastic and optimistic Oregonians. More tomorrow, and thanks for reading.

September 4

Our "Back to School" Education Bus Tour is now under way, and I am wrapping up a great day of travel and events. I flew down to Klamath Falls this morning, got some work done and then had a radio interview. After the interview, I went on a fantastic hard-hat tour of the new expansion at Merle West Medical Center. I finished my day by attending and speaking at a Klamath County Central Committee event. Now we are in Medford, ready for an early wake-up and busy schedule tomorrow. If today was any indication, we have a wonderful week ahead.

Education Bus Tour Kickoff

To mark the kickoff of our Education Bus Tour next Tuesday, September 5th, I am launching a travel blog to keep you updated on happenings from the campaign trail. Between now and the election, I will post blog entries and pictures from my travels around the state. You can also post your own messages in response to my entries. I look forward to staying in touch with you throughout the remainder of the campaign.

Very warm regards,