Weeks Dies in Crash; Lane County Fair Opens; Umpqua Bridge Repairs; Veteran Seminar

Former Siuslaw Principle Killed

Another tragic accident has affected the Florence community.  Oregon state Police reported that they were investigating  a fatal motorcycle accident on Tuesday morning.  At approximately 10:35 a  black 2015 BMW motorcycle ridden by former Siuslaw High School Principle John Weeks crashed into the side of a logging truck on highway 20 east of Sweet Home.  The OSP report said that witnesses saw what looked like Weeks looking over his shoulder when the wreck occurred.  Weeks, 65, was pronounced dead at the scene.  Highway 20 had to be closed for three hours while police investigated.  The driver of the logging truck was not injured.  Weeks served as Siuslaw High School Principle from 1991 to 2000.

Fair Opens

The Lane County Fair went into full swing last night.  The 5 day run includes the usual rides, games, and concerts.  It also includes a stunt motorcycle show and a model train exhibit.  This evening on the stage is Bret Michaels of Poison fame.  Survivor and Loverboy are Friday night’s headliners.  Saturday you can enjoy the harmonies of En Vogue and to close out the Fair on Sunday country’s Leann Rhimes hits the stage.  General admission for the fair is 9 dollars with some additional savings for the very young and the well-aged.  The fair opens at 11 each day and closes at 11 nightly except for Sunday at 8.

Umpqua Bridge Repairs

Repairs continue to affect traffic in Reedsport as work moves forward on the Umpqua River Bridge.  Traffic is down to one lane at times as crews continue regular maintenance on the span.  They are also repairing damage done after a logging truck plowed into the north end of the bridge last month.  ODOT says you can expect up to 20 minute delays.

Center to Offer Veteran Seminar

The Shorewood Senior Living Center will host a benefit seminar for veterans today at its location on Spruce Street.  Veteran Benefit Specialists Jonalou Haak is helping veterans to take advantage of all the benefits available.  Including some that veterans might not be familiar with.  The program begins at 10 am this morning.