Road Work Dangers
A recent accident that injured an ODOT worker as he was attempting to off load an excavator sparked the issuance of a reminder from the agency that there are several steps to take to avoid serious injuries in work zones. ODOT officials say that driver inattention is one of the major factors in work-zone crashes. When coming upon a work scene drivers should obey all speed signs, move over to provide workers with adequate room and remember that fines are doubled in work zones.
Rhododendron Show
The displays at last weekend’s “early season Rhododendron Show” at the Florence Events Center were “not at all like they should have been” according to Mike Bones. Bones, an active member in the Siuslaw Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, said recent wet and cold weather is to blame. But, he said, they did have about 200 entries, most of those from chapter members and the plant sale was a success. The society hosts a late spring show during Rhododendron Festival Weekend. Bones said he is hoping non-members will step forward for that. He also pointed out that the festival show has an added category for the light pink native rhodies, also known as macrophyllum. The late season show will be May 20th and 21st at the FEC.
OSU Extension Service Event
The Oregon State university extension service will hold a free compost workshop at the Florence Food Share Garden on April 29th from 10am until noon. The event is for beginner or experienced composters and will cover the basics of how composting works and which materials to use and they will demonstrate the different methods and types of compost bins available.
Chamber Presence at Governor’s Conference
President and CEO of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce recently attended the Governor’s conference in Portland. Bettina Hannigan says during the conference she attended an “unreasonable Hospitality” seminar that encouraged business to go beyond being hospitable and do more for their customers. The seminar was led by top-selling business author Will Guidara where he encouraged business owners to not just meet the basic needs and desires of guests but exceed it by demonstrating extraordinary compassion, and adding a little something extra to their product or service whenever it matters. Hannigan says it’s good business whether serving tourists or locals. Tourism in Florence provides over $200 million in annual revenue and about 1400 of the local jobs are tourism centric.