From Benton County

The Benton County Health Department is receiving reports of basement flooding in some residences. 

Often the source of this flooding is from sewage or combined storm water systems that have become overwhelmed because of regional flooding. It is best to assume that any flood water may contain dangerous bacteria or chemicals. If possible avoid contact with flood water. If you must work in flood waters wear boots, gloves and protective clothing to offer increased protection. Wash with soap and water as soon as possible after exposure to reduce your risk of becoming ill.

The Albany Fire Department's Car Seat Program is being discontinued at the end of the year. Reductions in personnel and the fire department's budget have led to this decision.

The last clinic will be held on December 17, 2011 at Fire Station 14, 2850 NW Gibson Hill Road, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Citizens needing assistance with car seats can check the web site http://www.actsoregon.org/calendar.html for a listing of upcoming car seat check-up events.

By David Stauth Oregon State University

A new “organocatalyst” developed at Oregon State University is now available for commercial use.

Produced by an Albany, Ore., pharmaceutical company, it should make new drug development around the world less costly, more efficient and more environmentally friendly.

This catalyst, named “Hua Cat,” is also one of the first products to reach the marketplace as a result of support from the University Venture Development Fund, an initiative finalized in 2007 by the Oregon Legislature to create jobs and aid business by bringing university-based discoveries to commercial use.

The product itself is a new and important part of the field of organocatalysis, which experts believe offers a better and more affordable avenue for research and commercial production of new drugs, while eliminating the need for toxic heavy metals often used in the past.