Vote 'no' on Grange casino

I and my family have over 200 years of service to the Oregon State and National Granges. The Grange is a family-oriented community service organization with roots in agriculture, and has been in existence 137 years, with many presidents, congressmen and governors being members.

The Grange name is a registered trademark and for out of the U.S. investors to come into Oregon and use "The Grange" to promote a casino is like a slap in the face not only to me but to everyone who is or has ever been a Grange member -- also to community members who are used to coming to our events and fundraisers to help the community.

We Grange members ... give scholarships, backpacks for children taken from abusive homes, and help ... worldwide charity projects. Our junior members -- 5 to 14 years of age -- each year raise money to send goats to Third World countries.

We do not need another casino in Oregon, especially one using The Grange's reputation. I urge everyone's support a "No" vote on 82 and 83.

Wayne F. Johnston

Jefferson, Ore.

Shadow of Marvel haunts agencies

Jon Marvel may be vacating his Western Watersheds Project -- WWP -- but the shadow he cast will remain. Manipulating federal judges into doing his bidding then receiving compensation under the Equal Access to Justice Act is his legacy.

The fear of WWP lawsuits has had the effect of shaping agency and permittee management. Challenging Marvel and Company can result in what has been termed "special treatment." A sample of its effect was felt this summer. Under grazing and elimination of the same played a large part in the horrific fire season witnessed this summer.

Marvel's departure could be compared to the carnival game where the rat is hit on the head with a hammer only to pop up somewhere else.

Michael Hanley

Jordan Valley, Ore.