It’s hard to tell by the jobs picture in Oregon, but there are some signs of a recovery. Oregon economist say they are seeing a gradual improvement in the economy, based on the fact that they are seeing fewer initial claims and people are not using up their benefits. Tom Fuller with the Oregon Employment Department says 128,000 Oregonians are receiving $36 million in unemployment benefits. $55 million in unemployment claims were paid out during the same time last year.