The enthusiasm in La Grande and her smaller sister communities in Union County is growing as volunteers and organizations plan several months of celebration for Oregon’s 150th birthday. A kick-off event will take place at Eastern Oregon University on February 14, the official anniversary of Oregon’s statehood. The reception in Huber Auditorium in EOU’s Badgley Hall Science Center will feature a presentation on Madame Marie Dorian, one of Oregon and Union County history’s heroic figures by Terry Griffith, a La Grande historian. The EOU Fiddle Ensemble will also perform. Birthday cake and beverages will be provided by the university.

                Community festivals, rodeos, concerts and parades throughout the summer will feature Oregon 150 activities during Union County’s 15 Weeks of Celebration. Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to show their love for Oregon by joining in tree plantings, riparian clean-ups and community enhancement activities. A new local blog site, www.oregon150.eoni.com,  is a quick way to keep informed of the many ways for visitors and residents to celebrate in Union County.  To learn what is happening around the state, go to www.oregon150.org.

                Tell us! If you have an event or activity that includes a celebration of Oregon’s 150th Birthday, be sure to send us your news so we can help tell others and increase participation. Email your news to visitlg@eoni.com.