Coast Guard Launches Investigation
The Coast Guard announced today a formal marine casualty investigation has been convened into the marine casualty of the fishing vessel Mary B II which capsized off Newport, Oregon, January 9, 2019, resulting in the loss of three lives and loss of the vessel. Rear Adm. David Throop, Coast Guard 13th District Commander, authorized the investigation. The crew of the 42-foot fishing vessel Mary B II were attempting to cross the Yaquina Bay Bar when the vessel capsized with all three crewmembers on board. The marine casualty investigation will be led by Cmdr. Karen Denny, the executive officer of Marine Safety Unit Portland. Denny, who has served in the Coast Guard for 18 years, has extensive experience in commercial fishing vessel safety and marine casualty investigations. Upon completion of the investigation, Denny will issue a report of investigation with collected evidence, established facts and conclusions with possible safety recommendations to prevent future incidents
Gas Prices Continue Down in Florence
Across the nation gas prices are beginning to tick upward according to AAA Oregon analyst Marie Dodd. However, she says Oregon continues to see a downward trend with statewide prices around Oregon down 2 cents a gallon for regular gas. Here in Florence the price has dropped even lower than the states drop with local prices now averaging 2.46 a gallon which is 6 cents lower than last week. Dodd says the rise in crude prices does not outdo the increase in U.S. stockpiles.
Florence Fest Call to Artists
Florence Fest 19 has released a call to artists for the 3rd annual event on April 26th and 27th. the event features 2 days of Jazz, art, and wine from around the State of Oregon and continues to grow in popularity. Selections for the art exhibit will be made by Karin Clarke, a Eugene gallery owner for the past 16 years. There will be cash awards for artists totaling $2500.00. Deadline for entries is February 24th and can be made at callforentry.org.
