Yesterday certainly was not the best day to send out our e-newsletter promoting adventures in Oregon’s snow and mountains. We’re heartbroken over the news of James Kim, and apologize for what must have felt like gross insensitivity on our part.

The Kim family was visiting Oregon for a tourism experience, and so all of us at Travel Oregon take it personally. To those of you who had a reaction to the “Let It Snow” email, thank you for expressing your feelings about it. There is some comfort in knowing that others are equally affected.

Unfortunately, the regrettable coincidence of our newsletter being delivered on the same day that the news of James Kim was delivered heaped insult on injury, and we’re very sorry about that. Our e-newsletters – the topics, editorial content and distribution – are scheduled months in advance. Our schedule for distributing this newsletter happened to coincide with the news – to the hour, even – of James Kim being found.

If we could take it back, we would. It’s some consolation that, since we send them out in shifts, only one-third of our newsletters were emailed yesterday. We’ve put a hold on the remaining newsletters, out of respect for those who are grieving. It’s the least we can do.

In times of crisis, our first thought is for the safety of visitors to our state. In response to the Kim tragedy, we’ve started uploading to our website more safety links and information for winter travel in Oregon. In the days ahead, we will be considering how we can communicate more effectively with Oregon travelers to insure their safe visit in any season.

Please accept our sincere apology for the error of coincidence. The staff shares your grief and extends our deepest sympathy.

Sincerely,

On behalf of all at Travel Oregon,

Mo & Emily
Editors, Travel Oregon E-newsletter