Lights on for Kids this evening; LC Commission considering social hosting ordinance; DC Planners to continue septic hearing

Lights on For Kids…

Recent studies have shown that the most dangerous time for kids is the stretch between the final bell of the school day and dinner time. That’s when there’s often the least supervision. Kids are out of school, but parents or guardians are still at work. But, a local after school program aims to change that here in Florence.
205 – “There’s no reason why learning should stop after three pm, particularly if the alternative is for unsupervised time in front of the television or the computer.”

Interim Director Jerry Matheny with the Boys and Girls Club of Western Lane County says they’ll be part of a nationwide program tonight called “Lights On After School”.
206 – “There’s a series of rallies that are going to be happening across the nation. And what we’re using this for is simply a platform to educate the public about the after school programs that not only the Boys and Girls Club has, but the partnership that we joined with the Siuslaw School District into putting on the after school programs at the school.”

The local programs are funded through a federal grant that pays the club to keep doors open at after-school centers in the Elementary, Middle School and High School. Tonight’s rally for kids will be at the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center on 15th Street between 6 and 7:30.

A new ordinance being considered by Lane County Commissioners would impose stiff financial penalties on anyone hosting an under-age party involving alcohol. The Board heard from several residents over the past few weeks who have been affected by under-age parties. Many of the parties have been hosted or supported by adults. If approved, a fine of up to $1000 could be imposed on the host, plus they could be charged for the actual cost of law enforcement, fire and other emergency responders. Public hearings will be scheduled to receive more community input.

More community input is the goal this evening with the Dunes City Planning Commission continues hearing on proposed changes to an ordinance that would require regular maintenance and inspection of septic systems. The initial hearing was September 24th. Dunes City Recorder Amy Graham said an incorrect notice was published saying the continuation was set for next week. Under the proposed changes property owners that do not comply could be charged up to $250 per day. That hearing continues tonight at Dunes City Hall at six pm.

The former director of Siuslaw Outreach Services was not formally indicted on theft charges this week as previously announced by the Lane County District Attorney’s office. But Ethel Bassett was arraigned on four counts of Theft in the first degree alleging she stole more than $56-thousand from a court ordered abuse program. Chief Deputy District Attorney Patricia Perlow also said no plea was entered in Bassett’s case. Perlow said Bassett is scheduled to appear in court November 25th.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors clinched a spot in the Mountain West League Playoffs Tuesday night with a victory over Triangle Lake. They can improve their position with a victory tonight when they travel to McKenzie. A win would put them on the road Tuesday against either Alsea or Lowell. A loss will put them in a tie-breaker Monday against Triangle Lake.

Also on the volleyball court tonight, the Reedsport Braves for Sunset League action against the Tigers in Bandon.