State COVID-19 Numbers Trending Downward
Despite reporting 203 new cases of the coronavirus and 11 new deaths, the Oregon Health Authority in its weekly report says cases of COVID-19 infections are still trending down statewide. Last week there were 1,963 new cases which is 159 cases less than the previous week. There was no change in the overall percentages of positive cases though. That number remaining at 5.4%. There were also 28 fewer hospitalizations. The state’s total number of cases is now 23,870. On Tuesday Jason Davis with Lane County Public Health also reported a downward trend for our region. There are currently 641 cases in Lane County which added 4 more to the total yesterday. Of the 11 new deaths reported yesterday all reportedly had underlying health conditions. Multnomah County continues to be the hotspot for covid cases with 5,448.
Port to Fill Vacancy
The port of Siuslaw is seeking to fill a vacancy on their board of commissioners. Position 2 was vacated recently by the resignation of Craig Brandt. There was no official word from Brandt or the board of commissioners on Brandt’s exit. The board will now look to fill the position by appointment. That position will be termed on June 30, 2021 at which time an elected successor will be seated. Persons wishing to apply for the position can do so at the port’s website portofsiuslaw.com. Applicants must be registered voters residing within the Port of Siuslaw District.
City Lights Cinemas To Reopen
City Lights cinemas owner Michael Falter says they hope to be reopened on August 28. Falter said circumstances surrounding operations that had nothing to do with COVID-19 required the temporary closing. Opening on August 28th is the horror fantasy film The New Mutants, which Falter says will be the first new film for the reopening.
FloGro Distribution
Megan Messmer with the City of Florence says next Thursday the 27th will be FloGro day. The city’s popular composted Class A biosolid will be distributed at the Florence Public Works Operation’s center on Kingwood and 27th street beginning at 9am. Loads will be limited to one pick-up bed or small utility trailer and is distributed on a first come first serve basis.
Lane County Parks Address Graffiti
Citizens of Florence united to assist in removal of graffiti that had been painted on the rocks at the beach entrance on the north jetty. Although the participation was appreciated, Brett Henry from Lane County Parks released a letter asking that the lead ranger for Lane County Parks, Dan Anderson be contacted prior to attempting to remove any future graffiti. Henry says he want to ensure that environmentally safe methods are used in removing the paint. Henry says they are also considering a gate to prevent nighttime activities if the tagging continues.