Today, I noticed an announcement that Google Earth had again updated some imagery in Oregon. Now, the Bend and Lava Butte areas are looking good (see screen snag above). The rapids formed at each lava-river interface are easily detected.
Still no improvement in the Malheur County area coverage in Google Earth. Note that at AGU I had a chance to actually interact with some Google People, and made a point out of complaining (in a friendly way) about the SE Oregon problem. No promises, but some expressions of mild concern. I did score one of those cool Google light-up balls, however. No job offer.