It’s here at last. After a bit of political tap dancing by leaders in competing cities, Newport has won the NOAA stamp of approval for the establishment of a new Pacific Fleet Home Port.  On 6/4 an official groundbreaking ceremony was conducted to the background noise of earth moving equipment doing site preparation.
Breaking ground. Image courtesy University of Oregon
Those in attendance included Gov. Ted Kulongoski, US Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkly, US Representatives Kurt Schrader and David Wu as well as State Representative Jean Cowan, Port Commissioner Don Mann, County Commissioners Bill Hall and Terry Thompson and OSU President Ed Ray.
Four of Oregon's leading politicians -- Gov. Ted Kulongoski, Sen. Ron Wyden, Sen. Jeff Merkley and Rep. David Wu.
Best of all was the enthusiastic response of more than 500 local residents who attended in support.
Photo courtesy of Oregon State University
Sunday 6/6 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM will feature a community celebration at the site. Come on over to the Coast and join in the festivities.
