Family Upset Over Caregiver Sentence
A local Caregiver will spend little time in jail after pleading guilty to elder abuse. Lane County District Attorney, Christopher Parosa told Coast Radio news that a deal was worked out with Kari Lynn Kasten that will prohibit her from continuing as a caregiver during her 24 months of supervised probation. Parosa said that while Kasten did have a couple other brushes with the law, including a DUII, the prosecutors handling the case and Kasten’s Attorneys came to a deal. The limited jail time and the ability to return to caregiving after probation did not sit well with family of the victim. They appeared in court to ask the judge not to honor the deal. Parosa said the case was not yet finalized and the judge has not yet made his final decision on sentencing.
Christmas Tree Pick up
According to the National Fire Protection Association, firefighters each year respond to an average of 155 home fires caused by dried-out Christmas trees. Those fires result in at least four fatalities and cause more than $15 million in property damage. That’s why members of the Siuslaw Valley Firefighters Association will again pick up trees twice after Christmas. The first day will be Saturday, December 28th, then again Saturday, January 4th. All you do is call Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority at 541-997-3212 during regular business hours and they’ll schedule it for you. All they ask in return is an optional minimum $5 donation that goes into their scholarship fund. All trees will be ground, recycled, and turned into mulch as part of the City of Florence Flo-Gro program.
Downtown Revitalization Grants
The State Historic Preservation Office is offering up to $400,000 in matching grants for downtown revitalization in communities part of the Oregon Main Street Network. The Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant can fund projects like building rehabilitation, façade improvements, accessibility upgrades, and more. Eligible organizations must partner with local governments or property owners for projects within designated downtown areas. The goal is to spur private investment, create jobs, support businesses, and strengthen local tax bases. Applications are due by March 13, 2025. The program is funded through $10 million in lottery bonds approved in the 2023 legislative session.
Deware of Brushing Scam
After a brushing scam surfaced in Newport, residents in Florence and other communities are being warned to stay vigilant. The scam involves receiving unexpected packages, often containing items like jewelry or electronics with no sender information. These packages may include QR codes claiming to reveal the sender—authorities urge you not to scan them! Scanning could give scammers access to your personal or banking information. If you receive a suspicious package, report it to local authorities immediately and warn your loved ones. Stay cautious and protect your information.
