Lockdown Investigation Completed
The Lane County Sheriff’s Department has concluded their investigation of the incident that caused a lockdown at Mapleton Schools on Tuesday. After initial searches of the area they could find clear evidence of the presence of a person dressed in black near the campus. The gunshot noises reported were likely due to a local resident doing some repair work on their home nearby. At approximately the same time as the report a person using a nail gun was repairing siding and sheriff’s officers determined that it was likely the cause of the noise sounding like gunshots. During the incident law enforcement agencies arrived from Lane County Sheriffs, Douglas County Sheriffs, Florence Police and the Oregon State police. Western Lane Fire and Ems also set up a staging area. While it could have been a tragic event, responders were well coordinated and prepared. Yesterday members of the Crisis Response Team from Florence were on hand to talk with students.
Boat Inspections
This Sunday the Lane County Sheriff’s office will offer free boat inspections. LCSO Marine Patrol Deputy says the department is continuing its relationship with Bi-Mart stores to offer this service. The Florence Bi-mart will have the inspections from 10am until 1pm on Sunday. Any and all boats are welcome. Deputy Churchill says boating is a great way to experience the outdoors, but certain steps need to be taken to ensure a safe Voyage.
Bass Tournament
Something for your calendar. The Florence Lions Club announces the return of the Elliot Bass Tournament at Siltcoos Lake on June 3rd and 4th. The event will be at the Darlings Marina and Resort area. The tournament is named for long-time Lions Club member George Elliot who, with his family, founded the fundraiser as a joint venture with the former Florence Bass Club. The tournament is open to all and contest entry is $75.00. breakfast and hotdogs and hamburgers will be available. You can register for the event by calling 999-9104 or 999-0657.
Sand Art
Memorial day weekend there will be a sand art display on the beach at Driftwood Shores. The art is by Karen Chalmers who is sponsored by Sand Master Sandboarding Park and Fresh Harvest Café. She will be creating a large labyrinth for spectators to walk and a Mandella. Starting at noon visitors to the event will be able to walk the labyrinth with low tide coming around 1:30 that afternoon.
Bears Coming Out
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says the warmer weather is prime time for bears to begin foraging for food and it is a good time to make sure potential food sources are secured. Trash cans are a particular favorite for bears and their acute sense of smell can draw them to your home from trash to grill drippings. Having to clean up trash that has been rummaged through by a bear is inconvenient, but ODFW says a bear’s familiarity with your property could become a danger to you. It is also a good idea to bring in your bird feeders at night.
