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12-01-05 I want to thank Vernonia Art Attack and Mike Snow for putting the graphics on the Police Camaro for free. It looks very sharp. I also want to thank Emergency Responder Services, Inc. of Cornelius for donating and installing several lights and other equipment on the Camaro. Without the support of these businesses and the Vernonia Lions Club, a special duty vehicle like the Camaro would not be possible. In the past two weeks I have received complaints about excessive speed, aggressive driving, and several near-accidents on Hwy 47 south of Vernonia. One citizen told me every evening when they return to Vernonia from work Hwy 47 becomes a virtual race track. Cars and truck routinely exceed 70mph, pass where it is prohibited, and almost collide with vehicles turning off of and onto the highway. ORS 811.485 "Following Too Closely" makes it illegal to follow another vehicle with due regard to speed, other traffic, and condition of the road. Remember, you should be able to safety stop your vehicles if the vehicle ahead of you should have to make a sudden or emergency stop. Most people are telling me people are following way too close on Hwy 47. I have notified OSP and Washington County asking for enhanced patrols. Also take care when traversing curves so as to not veer cross the center line. This too has almost caused several accidents all over Columbia County. My officers have seen a rise in the use of Meth in the Vernonia area. We continue to gather information on the use and distribution of this drug in our community. On December 12, 2005, 7:00pm at the Vernonia Community Church ("A" & State Ave.), the Vernonia Police Department and the Vernonia Drug-Free Community Coalition will be presenting the film "Crystal Misery". This film was produced by the Washington County Sheriff's Office and will give you a real-life look at the Meth from the people who use, make, and distribute it. The people in the film are all from Washington County. Come watch how Meth destroys lives and families from a first-hand perspective.