Human Trafficking Making Rural Inroads
Residents in rural areas of Oregon can no longer say it won’t happen in our back yard.
Frankie Jorgensen – “Well, we’re talking about sex trafficking.”
Frankie Jorgensen says human trafficking is no longer limited to larger metropolitan areas. Enforcement efforts there have put the pressure on.
Frankie Jorgensen – “So they’re moving out to smaller areas and looking for those who are quite susceptible to be taken.”
Jorgenson is a member of the Florence chapter of Soroptimist International. They will be hosting a four hour seminar, April 2nd at the Florence Senior Center where they’ll talk about how human trafficking is spilling over into smaller communities.
Frankie Jorgensen – “We don’t want to scare anybody, but we do want people to be aware that this is something that happens.”
Featured speakers will include Florence Police Chief Tom Turner. Jorgensen says there is no cost to attend, but space is limited so they’re asking you to RSVP to 541-997-2385.
Jordan Cove permit denied
Federal regulators have denied a permit for a liquefied natural gas terminal in Coos Bay. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued the 25-page ruling Friday, saying the Jordan Cove Energy Project would adversely impact landowners. The ruling also says there’s little evidence to support the need for a pipeline. The 230-mile pipeline route from the farming town of Malin, just north of the California border in Klamath County, to Coos Bay has been opposed by private landowners and conservation groups. It crosses rivers, mountain ranges and a mix of private and public lands.
Habitat for Humanity to dedicate next home
Home number 27 for the Florence Chapter of Habitat for Humanity will be dedicated a week from Saturday. Organizers had originally planned the event for Saturday the 19th, but had to move it back a week.
The house, at 2930 Munsel Lake Road, will be the home of Hailey Durgan and her six-year old son Gunner.
Habitat Executive Director Kate McBroom-Redwine said Durgan “more than completed” her sweat equity in the home. She worked side by side with volunteers, saved cash for closing costs, taxes and insurance, and attended classes focusing on home ownership.
Gunner did his part as well. McBroom-Redwine said he addressed volunteers at a dinner following completion of the home and thanked them… she added there were no dry eyes in the room.
The dedication is set for one pm Saturday. McBroom-Redwine said parking is available across the street at the Florence Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Senior Center hosting legal issues
A series of workshops addressing legal issues for seniors in the community will be added to the services provided at the Florence Senior Center beginning in April.
April 6th, and the first Wednesday of each month after that, Attorney Kelly Ford will host casual discussions on legal issues.
Ford will begin each session with a specific topic, but says the dialogue can change depending on the needs and questions of those attending.
April Sixth will feature common estate planning mistakes and how to avoid them. Future topics include probate, revocable trusts, guardianship and planning for long term care.