Workers Memorial Day
Workers Memorial Day will be observed across Oregon on Tuesday, April 28th, honoring those who lost their lives to work-related injuries and illnesses over the past year. The annual observance serves as a time of remembrance, recognizing the sacrifices of workers while also highlighting the ongoing need for safe and healthy workplaces. Labor leaders and safety advocates say that while workplace conditions have improved over the decades, preventable deaths still occur each year. Oregon Labor Federation President Graham Trainor says the day is both a tribute and a call for stronger protections and accountability, emphasizing the importance of ensuring every worker returns home safely. Oregon OSHA Administrator Renée Stapleton adds that the observance is also about renewing efforts to eliminate workplace hazards and reinforcing the right of all workers to safe conditions on the job. Workers Memorial Day is recognized nationwide each year on April 28th, marking the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, passed by Congress in 1970.
Backflow Testing Begins Today
Beginning today the City of Florence is launching its annual testing of residential premise isolation backflow assemblies. The testing is required under City Code and Oregon Administrative Rules to help protect the public water system from potential contamination. City officials say the work will be carried out by Olson LLC over the next several weeks, with crews moving throughout Florence to complete the inspections. The testing cycle is expected to wrap up by May 2nd. Residents may see personnel in their neighborhoods as the work gets underway.
Public Weigh In Sought
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is inviting the public to weigh in on the future of the state’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery. ODFW will host a series of meetings along the coast, including the closest session for Florence on May 7th in North Bend at the North Bend Public Library from 1 to 4 p.m. According to the agency, staff will provide updates on marine life entanglement and a draft conservation plan, while also seeking input on potential changes ahead of an August Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting. Topics include risk reduction measures, electronic logbooks, and vessel monitoring rules. A virtual attendance option will also be available through Microsoft Teams.
