Lane County Schools to Benefit from Grant
The latest round of Workforce Ready Grants means 42-million dollars is being divided among 62 projects aiming to foster Oregon’s diverse workforce in the fields of healthcare, manufacturing and technology. The grants are part of Future Ready Oregon, a 200-million-dollar initiative launched by the Oregon Legislature in 2022 to enhance workforce training. Funds can be used to address barriers to education and employment, support curriculum development and purchase equipment. Future Ready Oregon Director Jennifer Purcell says partnerships with employers, industry leaders and labor organizations are key to the program’s success.
“It’s relying on those partnerships, and the expertise and lived experience of those community-based organizations, that allows for this funding to be used to meet the needs of individuals in really responsive ways.”
Grantees for this round include the Lane Education Service District which will use the $1,000,000 grant to establish A high school behavioral health services pathway through the Lane Career Academy model, providing curriculum and training to students both at their home schools and at industry partner sites. This culturally relevant, regional Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway equips students, upon completion, for further education and careers in various settings, including mental health agencies, social service organizations, substance abuse treatment centers, schools, hospitals, in-home healthcare environments, and more.
Thanksgiving Travel
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and with winter weather already making an impact, safety is top of mind for holiday travelers. Crews across the region are working tirelessly to keep roads clear, but officials are urging drivers to do their part as well. Heavy snow or crashes could lead to temporary highway closures. Drivers are reminded to stay patient, give snowplows plenty of space, and avoid passing them on the right. Travelers are also encouraged to prepare for winter conditions by packing chains, warm clothing, food, water, and a fully charged phone. For those crossing mountain passes, checking road conditions on TripCheck.com and following roadside signs can make all the difference. Finally, experts stress the importance of focused, sober driving during this busy season. With the right precautions, everyone can arrive at their destination safely this holiday.
City Holiday Schedule
The City of Florence offices will be closed on thanksgiving day and the following Friday. City Manager Erin Reynolds says that as always there will be plenty of staff covering essential services over the Holiday. Public works, and Florence police will be staffed appropriately.
“we are very thankful for law enforcement, public works, our event center staff and anybody else who is working through the holiday weekend.”
One of the events at the Event Center will be the Florence festival of Trees. The event will be Friday from 11am until 4pm for the public followed by a gala event on Saturday from 5-9 with dinner and a live auction. Doors open at 4pm for that event and tickets are $60 per person or a table of 8 for $400. The event benefits the Oregon Coast Military Museum.