Parenting APP
Researchers at the University of Oregon say a new online parenting skills program has helped improve mental health for rural Oregon families. After using the app, called Family Check-Up, for three months, parents reported a decrease in depression symptoms and increased confidence in their parenting. Kate Hails is on the research team and says the program uses techniques like focusing on parents’ strengths and children’s positive behaviors.
“Family Check-Up really views the parent as the expert on their own parenting in their own family and focuses on their own personal goals.”
Hails says the app is for families with young children and is based on an in-person program. She adds it’s designed to help rural families who face challenges with transportation, scheduling or stigma that prevent them from getting mental health support.
Port Art Purchase
The Port of Siuslaw has purchased the art piece that adorns the corner of highway 101 and Highway 126. The Golden/Yellowstone trout sold for $11,000 and this evening the Public Arts Committee of Florence will consider a replacement piece to go in its place. The artwork under consideration is another sculpture by artist Rick True who created the current piece. The Public Arts Committee will also discuss installation of the next round of art. The meeting will be at city hall at 4pm.
Burn Season
Burn Season is underway in Oregon and during the past 2 months the Oregon Department of Forestry has conducted controlled burns. These burns have prompted some calls to local firefighters. On occasion there will be large plumes of smoke around controlled areas. While fire agencies want the public to be vigilant, also be specific about reports and try to avoid false reports. A recent report sent Western Lane Fire and EMS to a home where the homeowner was powerwashing his deck. A neighbor across the lake from the residence reported seeing smoke and flames, however upon arrival the incident was deemed false.
Planning Commission
The Florence Planning Commission meets tomorrow evening at 5:30 at City Hall to discuss a major development proposal. The agenda includes a Planned Unit Development combining 20 existing lots into three, featuring 32 affordable housing units and an early learning facility on 1.47 acres near Greenwood Street between 10th and 11th Streets. The plan includes reduced setbacks, modified buffers, and a preference for families earning up to 60% of the area median income. Additionally, the Commission will review designs for the early learning facility and affordable housing units, which include associated parking, landscaping, stormwater management, open space, and recreation areas. Meeting materials are available at the City of Florence website.