Governor Gregoire�s Statement on Monastery Complex Fire

For Immediate Release: September 8, 2011

OLYMPIA �Gov. Chris Gregoire made the following statement tonight after meeting with evacuated families and firefighters at the Monastery Complex Fire base camp near in Goldendale:.

�Tonight I met with several families who have been evacuated from their homes due to the fire. Despite the circumstances they are in good spirits and all are pitching in to help out one another during this tough time.

�I also met with several of the firefighters who were coming off the line and having a late dinner at the base camp�s makeshift kitchen. They are tired but resilient and committed to helping the residents of Goldendale minimize any further loss to land and structures. More than 500 firefighters are engaged and the fire is a top priority. The Department of Natural Resources and other response agencies have engaged quickly and are working hand in hand to evacuate families, mobilize fire crews and keep the public up to date.

�Our heart is with those who have lost their homes and all those who are evacuated tonight. The fire is not contained and is a difficult fire to fight. We will continue to focus our energy and resources on containment. The residents of Goldendale have stepped up to help out their friends and neighbors and have a strong spirit which will help them get through this tough time. With a late summer taking place, I urge all Washingtonians to obey burn bans and take strong safety precautions.�