AOI is saddened by the passing of State Treasurer Ben Westlund.

Oregonians knew Ben as someone compassionate to the plight of others and committed to helping Oregon achieve her ideals.  This was evidenced by his work in creating the Public Safety Memorial Fund for the families of fallen law enforcement officers, his championing of the Oregon Cultural Trust and his commitment to bettering health care for all Oregonians. 

AOI knew and worked with Ben for over a decade on issues vital to Oregon’s economy.  Quite simply, we loved Ben Westlund.  Sometimes we agreed and sometimes we didn’t.  But Ben was a gentleman, gracious and kind to all.  His humor was disarming, his belief in our great state was inspirational. 

 We wish there  were more just like him. 

AOI offers our deepest condolences to the Westlund family during this difficult time.