Worker’s Comp Insurance Likely to Rise
Oregon employers are expected to pay slightly more for workers’ compensation coverage in 2027 under a proposal announced by the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The average cost would rise from 89 cents to 92 cents per 100 dollars of payroll, reflecting a 2.1 percent increase in the base insurance rate. State officials say the change is largely tied to a new law increasing wage-replacement benefits for injured workers. Even with the increase, Oregon’s workers’ compensation costs remain among the lowest in the nation, ranking 14th least expensive in a 2024 national study.
Weekend Events
Two popular Florence fall traditions return this weekend. The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the annual Community-wide Garage Sale September 11th through 13th, while the Florence Siuslaw Lions Club brings classic cars back to Old Town with Saturday’s Florence Fall Classic. Organizers expect garage sales, fundraisers, vendor markets, and pop-up events throughout the city. On Saturday, Bay Street will feature about 130 restored classic cars, vintage trucks, and custom vehicles from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event includes a 9/11 remembrance ceremony, food, raffles, and awards. Garage sale maps and registration information are available at FlorenceFun.com.
Mapleton School Celebration
Mapleton Community School will wrap up the 2026 Upriver Farmers Market season with an Autumn Equinox Block Party on Friday, September 25. The final market runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at Mapleton High School, with the block party taking place from 3 to 6. The free community event will feature local produce, baked goods, crafts, live music, face painting, yard games, cider pressing, story time, yoga, and a pie, cobbler and crisp contest. The celebration concludes with a performance by local music group Box Rat. Organizers say the event highlights community connections while showcasing student learning through the school’s garden-based education program.