State Settles Wireless Suit; Sold Out Crowd for Coronation; Online Billpay Changes; Rhody Days Parking; National Police Week

State Settles Wireless Suit

State Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum announced yesterday that the state has agreed to a settlement with a list of wireless carriers as part of a 50-jurisdiction agreement.  The state will receive just under 400,000 dollars from 6 different carriers that were found to have used deceptive and misleading advertising practices.  Rosenblum said in a statement that “protecting consumers from false and misleading advertising is a cornerstone of our work.  Of the common misleading information that the group shares is misrepresentations of unlimited data, free phone offers and monetary incentives to switch carriers.  Wireless carriers will now be compelled to represent truthful, accurate and non-misleading information in their advertisements.  The attorney general’s statement did not reflect where the settlement monies will go.

Sold Out Crowd for Coronation

If you were planning on attending the Rhododendron Coronation tomorrow evening, it is too late.  The Florence Events Center will be full for tomorrow evening’s event featuring the Siuslaw and Mapleton senior court.  The event will be hosted by KEZI news anchor Matt Templeman and CROW’s Melanie Heard.

Online Billpay Changes

The City of Florence has sent out information for individuals who use the online bill pay option for their city-based utilities. Beginning in the month of May if you are signed up to pay your water and sewer bill through Xpress pay you will need to update as that system will be disabled.  When you receive your May billing you can then register with the new provider and enroll in auto pay.  The new sign up information will be included in your May bill.

Rhody Days Parking

The city of Florence would like residents to know that there are two popular options for parking during next week’s Rhododendron Festival.  The city has contracted to use the old Lotus parking lot and will also make the Florence Events Center lot available.  There will still be on-street parking available, but that will be limited as some portions may be closed for Rhododendron festivities.

National Police Week

Next week begins National Police Week honoring the men and women who are dedicated to protect and serve our communities. As well as serving as a memorial for those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.  President John Kennedy in 1962 proclaimed May 15th as National Police Officers Memorial Day. Chief John Pitcher says they have planned recognitions in house for their officers.