The air is crisper, the night comes earlier, the World Series is in full swing, and before we know it we fall back into Standard time.

(Editor's note: 23 years ago Nick's father chose to kill himself. That decision has left permanent heartache and trouble for all those left behind. Here is Nick's story)

When I was almost 3, my father killed himself.

A myth exists that if you talk about suicide to a depressed person you may be “planting the idea in the person’s mind.” In my experience this is completely untrue. If an individual is feeling hopeless and is struggling, chances are good that she has considered this ominous option. So, please don’t be afraid to address the situation.

(Editor's note: Tim is one of our Military Helpline specialists and is scheduled for active duty as an Army Lieutenant this coming February)

“Why don’t you like to talk about the Army?” she asked.

“It’s not that I don’t like talking about the Army, it’s that I don’t like thinking about how it will pull us apart.”

This has become my reality.

Tears began to roll down her face as I spoke about my time here, and that it would come to an end, as all good things do.

OP's Pete Schulberg has decided to pursue freelance work beginning this fall,  so the non-profit is going to be looking for Pete's replacement.   See the job posting below:

Status:  Full-time/Exempt

Reports To:  President/CEO of Oregon Partnership

Position Summary
This executive team position is responsible for public information, marketing and advocacy activities.

Responsibilities
• Develop and implement public education & awareness programs to educate Oregonians about current issues related to substance abuse and suicide, using multiple media strategies
• Create OP brand a

Gen. Barry McCaffrey, NBC's military analyst and former White House Drug Czar, will be attending Oregon Partnership's annual dinner/auction June 9th.  Seems that the General is a big fan of ours and over the years, has gotten to know OP folks, including President/CEO Judy Cushing and Stephanie Soares-Pump.  And hey, he has family in Southern Oregon.

I met Gen.