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CORVALLIS - Oregon State University alumni and supporters are invited to spend a weekend in Newport July 25-27 learning about whales, mystery writing, and getting a behind-the-scenes peek at the Hatfield Marine Science Center.

The weekend package begins with a dinner at OSU's Hatfield Marine Science Center on Friday, July 25. Following dinner, the staff will take participants for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the research OSU conducts at the center.

On Saturday, mystery writer Ron Lovell, a former professor of journalism and English at OSU, will discuss the art of mystery writing. Lovell's book, "Murder at Yaquina Head," was published last year. Lovell's talk will be followed by a tour of the Newport bay front and a private tour of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, where participants will learn about OSU's latest research at the lighthouse site.

OSU President Tim White will join the tour Saturday night for a beach barbecue at the Hallmark Resort.

At Sunday's farewell brunch, Bruce Mate, one of the world's leading whale researchers, will deliver a talk, "Traveling in the Mist of a Whale's Blow: Discovering their Mysterious Habits." Mate, known worldwide for his work using satellite technology to track whale migrations, has been featured on the Discovery Channel and other television networks.

The event is sponsored by the OSU Alumni Association. The cost is $100 for association members and $110 for non members. Children ages 6-12 are $50 and children under five are free. The cost includes all activities and meals except Saturday lunch. Lodging is not included. To register call the OSU Alumni Association at 877-305-3759 or go to http://alumni.oregonstate.edu/events/weekend.html.