Wine and Chowder; Pet Scam; Election Workers Needed

Wine and Chowder

The Wine, Chowder and Glass Float Trail is this weekend in Florence.  The annual festival was moved to the February date after the effects of the Covid pandemic forced the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce to shut it down in October of 2020.  The move inevitably turned out to be a plus for local businesses in Florence as the move made it possible for a winter festival when much of the area had historically been doomed by slow sales and bad weather.  The time slot has gained popularity in the first two years and is expected to follow the trend this weekend.  Information on the event is on the chamber’s website at Florencechamber.com and tickets and information can also be purchased at the Florence Visitor’s center on Highway 101 next to the Krab Kettle.

Pet Scam

Yet another Scam is reported circulating in Lane County.  This time it is focusing on people with pets.  The scammers are contacting pet owners who have shared information about a lost pet online through social media.  A person representing themselves as “Jack Robertson” from Lane County Animal Services is telling pet owners that the pet has been located and is injured and has to receive emergency medical treatment.  The owners are then told they have to pay via CashApp before the pet can be treated. Lane County Animal Services Manager Michael Johns says this is a particularly disgusting way to take advantage of people.  He say if you are contacted, hang up and call Lane County immediately at 541-682-3645 and report the call.

Election Workers Needed

Lane County is seeking individuals to work in a temporary position in the election’s office and assist in the May 21, 2024 primary election.  County Clerk Dena Dawson says temporary workers are essential in the success of the election and they are looking to build a more diverse pool of people to be representative of the community as a whole.  There are currently positions available in customer service, data entry, ballot processing and ballot collection.  All Lane County election workers are paid and no volunteers are used.  Detailed job descriptions can be found at lanecountyor.gov/elections.