8 October 2013
Hazardous Markers Found on Oregon Beaches
Oregon State Police are urging caution when walking on the beach. There has been an increase in the number of marine phosphorous markers found in different locations up and down the Oregon Coast. They’ve responded to reports of three of the devices in the past week.
The markers are about 18 inches long, three inches in diameter and made of unfinished aluminum. They’re used primarily by military aircraft to mark floating locations. The devices contain White Phosphorous, which can spontaneously ignite when exposed to air. Police say not all of the phosphorous may burn up when the markers are initially deployed. That’s why, when they can wash up on the beach, they may still be dangerous.
Police say if you encounter one, do not touch it. Back away from it and call 911.
Fewer Fueling Choices
Drivers in Florence have two fewer choices for buying fuel this week. Two stations, owned by Miles Oil Company closed late last week. Notices on the 76 Station at 8th Street on 101 and the Texaco Station at 22nd Street simply said they are closed indefinitely and included an apology for inconvenience.
A former employee, who declined to be identified, said both stations had been struggling financially. The closure leaves seven full time employees out of work.
Another component of the family owned operation, the Pacific Pride Commercial Card Lock Station, sold September 30th to Carson Oil Company of Portland. That company’s North Bend branch will oversee operations.
Amazing Employees
Three City of Florence employees were singled out last night by their boss. Public Works Director Mike Miller, Finance Director Erin Reynolds and Executive Assistant Megan Messmer were all recognized by City Manager Jacque Betz in front of the City Council as “amazing” employees.
Miller was honored for his work on finding alternative methods to deal with sludge from the city’s waste water treatment plant by composting it. The Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies recognized the program with an award earlier this year.
Reynolds and Messmer were responsible for implementing the creation and distribution of the city’s budget report to residents. That program was recognized by the League of Oregon Cities last month.
Betz says in order for her to give an “amazing” award, employees must do something “astonishing that leaves a vivid impression”. She said the City does “not expect or set out to win awards. But when an employee exceeds what is expected of them, they become amazing”.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Elyssa rose had 11 kills, six blocks and four stuff-blocks; Ashlee Cole had ten kills and eight digs and the Siuslaw Vikings stopped the Marshfield Pirates in four games last night in Florence to regain a share of the Far West volleyball lead. Brittany Long had 17 digs and 23 assists in the effort.
Elsewhere in the Far West… Sutherlin downed Douglas in three to remain in third place. South Umpqua downed Brookings-Harbor in three.
In the Mountain West… McKenzie beat Mapleton in three games… Dani Simington recorded ten kills and four blocks for the Sailors.
Coming up on the court tonight, Reedsport will be at Myrtle Point.
Viking volleyball standout Brittany Long is Coast Radio Sports Athlete of the Week. The Freshman outside hitter recorded 17 digs and 23 assists in Siuslaw’s crucial Far West victory over the Marshfield Pirates. Honorable mention goes to Siuslaw quarterback Joe Dotson who completed 12-of-19 passes for 215 yards and one touchdown in the Vikings’ football win over Douglas.
