Swine Flu preparations; giant squid?; Habitat beach walk goal; SOS steps out against domestic violence

Swine Flu Preparation continuing…

Emergency officials in the Florence area heard from Lane County’s Public Health Officer yesterday about the importance of being prepared for the upcoming flu season. Dr. Sarah Hendrickson says swine flu is a new strain and most people don’t have any natural immunity, making everyone susceptible. Her number one concern coming into the traditional flu season is to slow the spread by maintaining ‘social distance’.
200 – “If you are sick, do not go to work. Please don’t go to work, don’t make the rest of us sick, don’t make the people who could get dead from this flu sick, I think that’s really important.”

Communities that have been successful in isolating people with flu have historically shown slower rates of spread and lower death rates. Dr. Hendrickson also says vaccinations for the common flu as well as for the H1N1 virus will help.
201 – “If you’re pregnant, get your, get your flu shot, get both flu shots.”

Other ‘at risk’ segments of the population include adults who may have a chronic condition such as asthma or diabetes, even if it’s controlled. Existing flu vaccines are already being administered, the H1N1 vaccines are due sometime next month.

Approximately two dozen large squid, ranging in size from two to four feet long were discovered on the beach just north of the Siuslaw River entrance this morning. Local resident Ann Hager said she contacted wildlife officials but so far they don’t have any ideas what may have caused the beaching.

Despite morning rains that drenched walkers, a $32-thousand goal for last Saturday’s Habitat for Humanity Beachwalk is in sight. Beachwalk chair Kathy Lenox said they’re closing in on $28-thousand towards new affordable housing right now, but if they hit their goal it will pay off in a big way. That’s because the Ford Family Foundation has promised a $25-thousand grant if they reach a minimum threshold of $31,250. Lenox said additional donations can be made by calling the Habitat office at 902-9227. All contributions remain in Florence and are used for the purchase of building materials and services from local businesses.

Siuslaw Outreach Services will kick off ‘Domestic Violence Awareness Month’ in October by asking area men to ‘step out against domestic violence’ and – quote – ‘walk a mile in her shoes’. S-O-S has organized a march of support through Old Town Florence on October Third. It will consist solely of men, all wearing women’s shoes. It’s intended to be a fun way, says SOS Executive Director Bettie Egerton, to get people talking about a very serious subject. She says one in six women in America are victims of domestic violence. SOS will also use the march to start a fund drive for the organization that offers a variety of services to the community.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Athlete of the Week:
Siuslaw Cross Country standout Joseph Campbell is Coast Radio Sports’ Athlete of the Week. The Viking Senior claimed two first place finishes last week, winning the Far West Preview meet at Tugman State Park in 17:01, then claiming the Molalla Invitational with a time of 16:44. Honorable Mention is given to Viking Defensive Lineman Kwartel Hendrickson who scooped up a loose ball in Friday’s game against Molalla, running it back 57 yards.

Prep Volleyball:
Siuslaw easily defeated Elmira last night in three games to claim a non-league match. On the schedule today, Reedsport opens up the Sunset League on the court against the Glide Wildcats at home.