Arrest Made in Assault; Home and Garden Show Turnout; Public Hearing for Transportation Committee; Flu Cases

Arrest Made in Assault

Last Thursday the Florence Police department responded to reports of a mal subject bleeding from his head on Highway 101 near 23rd Street.  Police arrived at approximately 10:54 pm and found the male with a significant head injury.  He told officers that he had been assaulted.  The man had to be transported to Riverbend hospital due to the extent of his injuries.  The victim was able to give police a good enough description to arrest 47 year old Christopher West of Florence.  West was charged with Assault 1 and unlawful use of a dangerous weapon.

Home and Garden Show Turnout

About 2500 people showed up for the 25th annual Florence Home and Garden Show.  From the opening doors on Friday at noon crowds rushed in to take advantage of the different services and products offered.  Coast Radio General Manager and organizer of the show Jon Thompson says he was happy to see pre-pandemic numbers.  Vendors also chimed in with the success they found.  One vendor sold out of the product he brought by mid-day on Saturday.  The event was scaled down last year to two days due to the pandemic, but Thompson said it was a good move even for a post pandemic show.  Last Saturday evening a grand prize drawing of $500.00 went to Mapleton resident Lucy Beers.

Public Hearing for Transportation Committee

The City of Florence will hold a public hearing as the City of Florence Transportation committee this Thursday.  Josh Haring, owner of River Cities Taxi is requesting a rate increase.  The meeting will be held at city hall at 5:00 pm.  The public is invited to make comment either in writing or in person.  Individuals can find more information on the city’s website at ci.Florence.or.us.

Flu Cases

Flu cases continue to decline according to the latest report from the Oregon health Authority.  There were only 16 total cases reported in the state in the latest round of reports published on Friday.