AP-OR–2nd NewsMinute,266
Here is the latest Oregon news from The Associated Press
TURNER, Ore. (AP) – Scenes of destruction and dramatic rescue
played out across the Willamette Valley yesterday as melting snow
and torrential rain socked the area with the worst flooding it’s
seen since 1996. A young mother and her infant child died after the
car they were riding in sank in an Albany creek. The National
Weather Service expect rain to pick up today after a brief break
yesterday afternoon. A number of rivers have risen to major flood
stage, and some had yet to reach their high point.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – An Oregon State climatologist says the
Hawaiian “Pineapple Express” is responsible for the wet weather
that’s soaking the state. Kathie Dello says the system is creating
a fire hose-like effect, dumping a concentrated stream of Pacific
moisture on a small area in the western Willamette Valley.
SALEM, Ore. (AP) – Public employees are asking the Oregon
Legislature to block the state’s pension system from releasing the
names of employees and retirees. The Oregonian reports that a bill
was expected to be introduced this week, but it’s not clear whether
it has much support among legislators. The paper says the measure
is being introduced as a courtesy to a coalition of public sector
unions.
ASHLAND, Ore. (AP) – The Ashland City Council is setting up a
reward fund in the slaying of David Grubbs. The 23-year-old was
nearly decapitated as he walked home from work on a bike path in
November. Police say they have no suspects. The Daily Tidings
reports the fund will be financed by public donations and
administered by the city.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-01-20-12 0930EST
