How Activists and Visionaries Transformed a State

Oregon journalist explores history of “maverick” state
Oregon has long been recognized throughout the nation as a progressive, “maverick” state, although a generation of citizens growing up in Oregon may not understand the origins of that reputation. A book by former journalist Floyd J. McKay helps illuminate why.

Reporting the Oregon Story: How Activists and Visionaries Transformed a State recalls a rollicking political atmosphere from 1964 to 1986, when Oregon crafted and passed its landmark beach bill to ensure the protection of ocean beaches for public use. The state also introduced the nation’s first bottle bill after a heated battle, resulting in a deposit on certain beverage containers to encourage recycling.

McKay had a front row seat, initially as a political reporter for The Oregon Statesman newspaper in Salem, and later as a news analyst for KGW-TV in Portland. The veteran journalist chronicles numerous political battles and emerging issues in this most recent book, including the successful efforts of activists to halt a highway that would be built on sand in Pacific City.

Please join us at 1 pm on Saturday, December 10th for a book talk by Floyd McKay in the upstairs program room of the museum, located at 4907 SW HWY 101 in Lincoln City. Mr. McKay will be on hand afterwards to answer questions and to sign copies of his book.