July 12, 2001

Contact: Mark Anderson (509-963-1493/fax: 509-963-2301/email: AndeMark@cwu.edu)

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - Gov. Gary Locke today authorized Central Washington University to lower its flags to half-staff to honor Jessica L. Johnson and Tom L. Craven, the CWU student and alumnus who perished July 10 in the Thirtymile Fire.

"We thank Governor Locke for allowing us to show respect in this way and pay tribute to these exceptional individuals," said CWU President Jerilyn S. McIntyre. "The university community is deeply saddened by the loss of Jessica and Tom. Our hearts go out to their family and friends."

The flag on Barge Hall, the institution's administrative building, and all other applicable campus flags will remain at half-staff until Monday, July 16.