The Observer reporter Davis Carbaugh reported how local businesses are ready for the statewide mandate on masks to be over and how they’re hopeful that this time it’s for good.

“I think a lot of customers are going to be really happy with the ability to choose for themselves,” said Liberty O’Dell, manager of La Grande Liquor and Smoke Shoppe. “That will probably spur more business.”

Businesses have perhaps been most impacted by the indoor mask mandate passed down from the state government. As of March 12, businesses will be able to decide for themselves whether people are required to wear masks while indoors at their establishments.

Dick Mason also had a story on how the mask mandate would impact students and faculty at Eastern Oregon University. The school lifted its mandate for wearing masks on campus indoors March 12, in accordance with the state’s plan. The lifting of the mask mandate will come about two years after it was imposed.

Dick also reported on how the pandemic has taken a toll on the restoration of the Liberty Theatre in downtown La Grande. The pandemic has stalled completion of much of the venue’s restoration work in part by creating supply chain issues that made it much more difficult to get the necessary supplies and materials. Members of the Liberty Theatre Foundation. Are saying if the restoration is to be completed this year, $600,000 must be raised.

Next week, we will have a story about La Grande Middle School students competing in a first-year weight lifting program.