COVID-19 Update
There were only 10 new cases of COVID-19 to report for the Florence area raising the total to 1988 all time for the virus. This week the Oregon Health Authority began doling out the new vaccines for the BA4 and BA5 strains of the virus. The Florence Events Center was the site for the clinic on Tuesday and Wednesday. The clinic will repeat for at least the next two weeks at the same time: 1-6 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Statewide there has been some decreases in the daily case rate overall with the daily average at 572.4. A national report yesterday from the CDC says the climate is right for getting the virus stabilized through the new vaccines and increased education. Cases in Lane County are averaging about 37.4 per day according to the latest data.
Youth Advisory Board
A statewide youth advisory board has been formed to support schools and communities to help decide what to do with a million dollars in recovery money to help those in need from situations arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. 20 youth were selected representing 12 counties and 19 schools, most from rural settings, though none from the central coast. The OHA program has identified some needs already including adjusting to the return to in person education, food insecurity, fewer club, classes or events for which to become involved. The group hopes to have decisions on money distribution by late fall.
Holly Jolly Follies
The Holly Jolly follies will be back on stage for the holiday season. Melanie Heard from CROW says there is no audition for the presentation. There will be an all cast mandatory meeting and read-through on October 24th at 6:45 pm at Crow’s facility at 3120 Highway 101. Youth and adults are welcome to participate. Heard asks that children under 7 will also need an adult to participate.
Phonebook
The latest edition of the Central Coast Connection phone book is beginning to hit the streets. This year’s cover is a painting by local artist Patti Williams entitled “Dusk on Bay Street”. It is the 32nd edition of the publication. William’s painting was selected from 16 entries by 9 different artists. The Central Coast Connection is distributed to over 11,000 households and businesses annually. In addition to relevant numbers the book offers local information including travel guides, government and emergency information, a contractor guide and more.