Protect yourself, your family and your co-workers by getting vaccinated and staying informed. The fewer of us who get sick from either seasonal influenza or pandemic H1N1 influenza, the more we can reduce the impact in our schools and workplaces. Visit the state's flu Web site at www.flu.oregon.gov or call the state hotline at 1-800-978-3040.

Online Claim System is fastest way to file

What's the fastest way to file your Oregon Unemployment Claim? Filing online is the fastest method for most people, especially if all your work was performed in Oregon.

Oregon's Online Claim System is easy, fast and secure. The system leads you through each question, step by step, and it even advises you if you have made a mistake. Most of the questions have YES or NO answers, plus easily understood HELP information is available with the click of your mouse.

Oregon will celebrate its 150th birthday in the year 2009. Planning for this big event has already begun. Check out the Oregon 150 Web site. You can share your thoughts and ideas with the planning team, sign up to receive e-newsletters, and learn how you can get involved.

Today Governor Ted Kulongoski ordered all flags at public institutions be flown at half-staff until sunset on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 in memory of those lost in the Fort Hood tragedy yesterday.

"The tragic event at Fort Hood yesterday is not only devastating for the families, but for our entire nation," said Governor Kulongoski.

Oregon is focused on accelerating our state's economic recovery by creating jobs and economic stability for communities throughout the state during this volatile time. Governor Ted Kulongoski's approach is comprehensive, leveraging state and federal dollars and private investment to maximize efforts that deliver short-term stimulus and long-term economic prosperity.

You've come to the right place! Oregon state government is on the job, working for you each day. Visit this feature often. We have great news to share.

The current recession has reduced state revenues, and has forced the Legislature to make deep cuts in agency budgets. Coping with these cuts requires closing most state offices and facilities on the days listed in the link below. State workers affected by the closures will take unpaid furloughs on those days. We apologize for any inconvenience these closures might cause, and we look forward to restoration of a full work schedule for all state agencies when the economy improves.

There's still time to take advantage of this rare opportunity to make good on your back taxes. If you haven't filed or need to amend filings, apply by November 19. If you qualify, you can avoid all penalties and 50 percent of the interest.