Local chapters are the backbone of our pro-life efforts.  I recently received this report about the newly-formed Baker County chapter from Jay Boyd, chapter chair:

            A new chapter of Oregon Right to Life was established in Baker County recently, although pro-lifers in Baker have been active for some time.  For instance, this year they encouraged about 80 students from kindergarten through high school to participate in the ORTLEF Annual Essay, Drawing and Oratory contests.

            At a meeting held on February 26 at the Rachel Pregnancy Center in Baker City, 15 members of the community met with Oregon Right to Life Executive Director Gayle Atteberry to discuss “what it means to be a chapter,” as well as the effect of the current political climate on the pro-life movement.  The gathering cemented a positive relationship between the two groups, serving to expand interest in both.  Board members of the Rachel Pregnancy Center signed on as charter members of the ORTL chapter, and one of the community members present volunteered to be a counselor at the pregnancy center.

            In the past, pro-life groups in Baker City have sponsored a booth at the county fair, run a pro-life newspaper ad for the Roe v. Wade anniversary, and sponsored a pro-life billboard.  Under the “umbrella” of an ORTL chapter, groups will be better able to coordinate their efforts to protect life.  Future plans include a “Catapult a Pumpkin for Life” competition that will raise funds for pro-life causes.  In addition, a stronger campaign to promote participation in the ORTLEF annual contests is anticipated.

            The chapter formation meeting received front page coverage in the Baker City Herald (1/27/09).