Dear Oregon-

I just wanted to send you a thank you note to let you know how much the Russian delegates and I enjoyed spending time with you and your government last week.

All being legislators themselves, the delegates particularly enjoyed participating in government proceedings and meeting with legislators from so many different levels of government. Their meeting with the staff at Congressman Blumenauer’s office was very lively and the delegates had an absolute blast meeting and observing your Supreme Court justices. Justice De Muniz was particularly welcoming to all of us! Additionally, Portland’s City Council as well as the interim session of your state legislature gave the delegates a lot to think about.

I have to tell you, you have a wonderful police department in Salem. Lieutenant Dietz answered all of the delegates’ questions and gave them a very thorough tour of the department’s facilities. The delegates left with several ideas to implement into their own communities. And your Metro Council is so unique! It was really great to meet with representatives from that branch of government. I think the delegates really benefited from the experience.

Now, I will say, I did expect a little bit more out of you in regards to the weather. I know you wanted us to stay longer, but sulking and raining on us was not the nicest way of making that point. I hope that next time we come to visit, your attitude will have improved in that regard. However, I suppose those magical moments we spent together at the beach make up for your little temper-tantrum. That was a very special afternoon for all of us. You really do make a pretty picture with those blue-gray waves crashing against your rugged, rocky cliffs. And those snow-peaked mountains against the baby blue sky made quite a nice impression on us as well. I can’t hold anything against you after a treat like that!

Thanks so much for all that you shared with us, Oregon. We learned a great deal during our stay and I hope for a chance to return one day soon!

Sincerely,

Jane