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Absolutely, I'll vote yes on Measure 76.   With the grim budget forecast, there is legitimate concern about funding shortfalls for education and other services.  

However, if Measure 76 does not pass, lottery funds will continue to be dedicated to parks, water quality and watershed protection through 2014.  Therefore, Measure 76 does not change the budget situation for the 2011-2013 Oregon budget cycle.

Historically, every lottery dollar invested has been matched by an additional $1.48 in outside funding (federal, private, etc.) [1].  

As the director of a watershed council in Portland, I personally can attest to the fact that lottery dollars inject money into the local economy, in terms of hiring local contractors, purchasing from local vendors etc.    

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[1] Institute for a Sustainable Environment, University of Oregon, Spring 2010.  “The Employment and Economic Impacts of Forest and Watershed Restoration in Oregon.”  Ecosystem Workforce Program Briefing Paper #23 and 24.



posted 2 years, 8 months ago
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My first time in Ashland as a six year old (I'm 38 now), we saw A Midsummer Night's Dream and Marlowe's Dr. Faustus.   My dad summarized the plot of Faustus to me as Mephistopheles and Faustus in a contest for Faustus' soul.    15 minutes into the play I ask, "Daddy, who wins the contest?" 

"You'll just have to wait and see, Matt."

"Well, who's ahead?"

I've been hooked ever since.  

posted 3 years ago
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