Rhododendron Festival Week
The 119th annual Florence Rhododendron Festival is officially underway following Saturday night’s coronation ceremony. Seniors Sylvia Hand and Camden Linton were crowned Queen Rhododendra and King of the Coast to lead this year’s festivities. Activities begin Thursday as Davis Shows Carnival opens for four days of rides and games. Festival events include the Old Town Vendor Fair, Rhody Days Arts Festival, Rhody Run and Walk, the Rhododendron Show at the Florence Events Center, and the Classic Car Show ‘n’ Shine at its new Highway 101 and 21st Street location. Saturday night the Coast Radio Classic Car Cruise will rumble through Old Town at 5:30. The celebration wraps up Sunday with the Grand Floral Parade through Historic Old Town Florence. More information is available at rhodydays.net.
Lane County Satellite Office
Lane County’s Land Management Division has opened a new satellite office in Florence to provide coastal residents with easier access to planning and building services. The office will operate by appointment only on alternating Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Florence City Hall on Highway 101. County planning staff will be available to answer questions about zoning, environmental features, coastal overlays, and permit requirements before construction begins. Building staff can also help with questions involving building codes and sanitation requirements. Appointments can be scheduled online at LaneCountyOR.gov/LMDcoastbooking
Dangerous Algae Watch
With summer approaching, Oregon health and environmental agencies have begun seasonal monitoring of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs for toxic cyanobacteria blooms. The Oregon Health Authority and Department of Environmental Quality say warmer temperatures increase the risk of harmful algae blooms, known as cyanoHABs. While cyanobacteria occur naturally in freshwater, some blooms produce toxins that can make people and animals sick. Health officials say exposure can happen when people swallow contaminated water or inhale water spray during activities like water‑skiing or wakeboarding. Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, and numbness. Children and pets are especially vulnerable, and dogs can become seriously ill or die within hours of exposure. The state urges people to avoid water that looks foamy, scummy, or thick like pea‑green paint, and to follow the guidance: when in doubt, stay out.
