Reporting the Oregon Story
How Activists and Visionaries Transformed a 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. Reporting the Oregon Story: How Activists and Visionaries Transformed a State by long time journalist Floyd J. McKay helps illuminate why.
The book 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 chronicled 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 2 pm on Saturday, October 15 th for a book talk by Floyd McKay in the upstairs program room of the museum. Mr. McKay will be on hand afterwards to answer questions and sign copies of his book.
The NLCH Museum is kicking off our 2016 Annual Fund drive. In the past we have asked for general operating support for our museum, including programs and exhibits. This year we have just one pressing need, to replace our failing roof. A vital part of our mission is the preservation of artifacts, treasures that represent our history and heritage. They include everything from photographs and documents to furniture and tools and most are irreplaceable. We can not put these priceless objects at risk. We need to replace the roof now, before fall rains cause damage to our building and artifacts.
Donated from the spectacular collection of Jim Watson and Nick Simpson, are a special feature of this gallery. This display includes many unusual examples produced in Japan for the fishing industry that have made their way to the Oregon Coast at the whim of wave and wind.
