Drazan Visits Florence
Former Oregon house minority leader Christine Drazan was in Florence yesterday to drum up support for her candidacy for Governor. There are currently 12 republicans seeking their party’s nomination in the May 17th primary. Drazan says she holds firm to her republican ideals, but knows the necessity of working within the framework of government to get things done. Drazan says while taxes are necessary, the more than 3 billion dollars raised in the 2019 legislative session has had many adverse effects including some for Florence. She said she spoke with Florence residents about their concerns.
“They talked about a lack of access to pharmacies. That’s because the commercial activities tax has forced some businesses to make choices to shut down their pharmacy departments, that means people are having to drive further and longer and not everybody can do that.”
Drazan believes that in order to have a good working system there has to be representation from both parties and while the governor’s seat is her goal she would like to see more fair numbers in the legislature.
A.A.R.P. Grants
Local organizations and governments in Oregon looking for funding for their projects now have an opportunity with A-A-R-P’s Community Challenge Grant. Applications are open for the sixth annual program, which awards out small grants to projects that help make communities more livable. Bandana Shrestha, state director of A-A-R-P Oregon, says challenge grants are designed to support projects that can be turned around quickly.
“They should be projects that hopefully get people excited on a new idea, fast-tracking new ideas, or to build momentum on an existing project. And we’re particularly looking for projects that prioritize and support residents 50-plus.”
She says A-A-R-P looks for projects that that engage communities, by creating more vibrant public spaces or improving housing or transportation. Applications are being accepted through March 22nd, and the selected projects must be completed by November 30th.
Sportsbook Grand Opening
Three Rivers Casino is having a grand opening for their new Sportsbook. The casino has built a 32 seat luxury lounge with a 26 foot television. Director of Marketing for the casino resort, Rich Colton, says this takes the casino to the next level when it comes to betting on your favorite professional or college team. The project has been 3 years in development and official kicks off at 2 pm on Sunday.
More Cases Reported-Numbers Fall
There were 8 reported COVID-19 cases for the Florence Area yesterday bringing the all time total to 1,382. Lane County numbers overall continue to decrease. They have been on a steady decline for about 2 weeks and the daily ‘cases per 100,000’ has dropped to 570.8 yesterday with a 7 day average below 700. The county reported 317 cases yesterday and the state reported 3,248. Hospital numbers are still high but declining according to the latest OHA report. There were 17 fewer beds being used yesterday for a total of 1,055 individuals hospitalized.
Meyer to Assume Duties in Dunes City
Dunes City council president Sheldon Meyer will assume the role of Dunes City Mayor after the passing of Mayor Robert Forsythe. Meyer sent a letter of condolences through a press release and vowed to continue the former mayor’s legacy. According to the Dunes City charter, Meyer will take over responsibilities until the full council takes action.
