21 January 2015
Disaster Planning Begins Anew
A 12-month effort to prepare a new disaster plan for the Florence area begins tomorrow morning. The project is spearheaded by the West Lane Emergency Operations Group. Siuslaw Valley Fire Chief Jim Langborg says it’s aimed at improving what’s already prepared.
Jim Langborg – We’re building upon an already strong program, basically taking it to the next level.”
Langborg says the best plan is one that’s readily accessible and familiar to all agencies and responders.
Jim Langborg – “Our goal is to not just have this plan that sits in a binder on a shelf. It’s a plan that all stakeholders are aware of and know how to utilize; and we utilized in exercises.
The effort begins tomorrow morning, nine a.m. with a kickoff meeting open to the public at Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue.
Watch for Measles symptoms
A confirmed case of measles in the Eugene area a week ago has public health officials advising people to be watching for possible symptoms.
The unnamed man was apparently exposed during a visit to Disney Theme Parks in Southern California earlier this month.
The incubation period following exposure is seven to ten days.
Early symptoms can include a runny nose, cough, slight fever and eyes can become reddened and sensitive to light.
The second stage can bring a high fever and a red rash, usually beginning on the face and spread to the rest of the body.
Jason Davis with Lane County Public Health says measles is a highly contagious virus. If you believe you or a family member may have it; call your health care provider before going to the office.
Friends of Library Book Sale
Book lovers will be able to support the Siuslaw Public Library and their reading habit at the same time next week by shopping at the Friends of the Library book sale.
The sale runs Saturday and Sunday, February 7th and 8th in the Bromley Room at the Library.
There’ll be a special preview sale before the doors open to the public on the seventh for members of the Friends group. Non-members will have a chance to join at the door.
Book sales are just one way the Friends of the Siuslaw Public Library raise money to support programs in Florence and in Mapleton. Library Director Meg Spencer calls the group “amazing” and adds the library could not offer all the programs they do with their help.
Emergency Department Fund Drive Nearing Top
A recent pledge of just over $900-thousand towards the expansion and renovation of the Emergency Department at Peace Harbor Medical Center has that fund-raising group excited.
Combined with previous pledges, that means they only need another $120-thousand in order to hit their goal of $5-million.
The latest gift is in the form of a “life estate” from donors who wish to remain anonymous. The couple will remain in their home as long as they like, but when they do leave it; or if both should pass away, it will go to the Peace Harbor Medical Center Foundation.
Foundation Director Michele Douglass said that may not happen for many years, but the generous donation still counts toward their current drive.
