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Siuslaw graduates 115 in packed house

By TONY REED

Paper graduation programs found a second use as fans

inside a packed Siuslaw High School gym during the graduation ceremony on June 5 Despite the temperature, Principal Mike Harklerode

introduced the ceremony, saying he had the best job in the world after watching the processional. He said that, along with

lining the school entry roads with senior photos, another tradition was the grad walk,

Lighthouse repair date yet unknown

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

New and returning visitors to the Lane County coast may have noted something missing just north of Sea lion caves. While the Heceta Head Lighthouse remains a prominent feature across the water, its signature beam of light has been shut off for over a month.

The 56 foot tall lighthouse, constructed in 1892, uses a 392-prism, first order Fresnel lens. The rotating beam emits light once every 10 seconds. However, aging parts have prompted State Parks’ personnel to shut it off while it’s being repaired.

By TONY REED

The Siuslaw News

Mapleton High School sent 11 graduates into the world on June 5 in a ceremony that repeatedly highlighted the value of community.

Salutatorian Natalee Stevens thanked parents and community for their support, saying, “We notice when you’re here, and it helped push us forward.”

She said that during many days and nights of work, it sometimes felt like it would be

could threaten nearby homes and the Coast Guard station, the city opted to install a secant pile wall to stabilize the bank. Staff have been monitoring the loss of the bank area since that time, and results show varying amounts of ground slippage, depending on the weather.

City Manager Erin Reynolds explained that the project aims to stabilize slippage along the end of Coast Guard Station Road at the river’s edge.

“Before we make repairs to the slippage, and before we install the secant wall, we would like to remove the stormwater outfall from where it goes out into the Siuslaw River, and instead, pump the stormwater up and into Rhododendron Drive, where we have another stormwater system,” she said. “In order to do that, we need this equipment.”

According to staff reports, the City’s work plan in the 2025/27 budget directed staff to advance the Coast Guard Rd. Secant Wall Project, as previously approved by the council.

Reynolds said engineering staff identified the pump as a need and included specifications.

“To advance this project

The story behind the story behind the story

By BOB HORNEY

I am seldom surprised anymore with a final decision not being the final decision. If you have been following my articles about how we patients notify PeaceHealth that we have a Patient Advocate who will be attending our medical appointments with us, you are aware of the struggle I went through to get to the bottom of it. After all was finally said and done, we agreed that we patients simply needed to call or stop at the clinic and ask that our chosen person be added to our Contact List.

Without their personal information being on our Contact List at the clinic they cannot communicate with the clinic about us. I thought all was finalized with the agreement that we would just add the person to our Contact List. Surprise! The surprise came from “out of the blue” at one of our PeaceHealth Patient Experience Meetings. Our two meetings per month are set up so we patients have the first meeting to share concerns from patients (ourselves and/ or others) about their healthcare right here in Florence. We currently have 4 of us advocating

POLICE LOG

The Florence Police Department responded to the following calls from June 2 through June 8

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

At 9:36 a.m., a subject came into the police department to turn in unwanted firearms for destruction.

At 11:07 a.m., a subject came into the police department on other matters and was found to have a warrant from Florence Municipal Court. The subject was taken into custody.

At 11:37 a.m., a caller reported needing a police report for a hit-and-run incident that caused damage to his vehicle.

At 6:12 p.m., a caller in the 2000 block of 40th St. reported an odor of

for the patients. What I really like about this committee is the commitment to get an answer to the patient’s issue. If it cannot be answered by any of the PeaceHealth members of the committee, it will come back at our next month’s meeting in our “Close the Loop” section. I know from listening to our patient advocates sharing experiences from other patients, we are prone to hand out kudos about as often as concern of treatment.

Back to our June 8 Patient Experience meeting. One of our patient advocates had brought up the concern from a friend

decaying organic matter in the area. An officer arrived in the area, but was unable to detect any odor.

At 6:30 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of Juniper for a report of a dispute occurring. Officers arrive to find a dispute between a father and daughter, with the daughter being uncooperative. Daughter was taken into custody for trespassing 2, disorderly

Calvin ‘Lynn’ Hood

05/30/1946 - 03/01/2026

On May 30th, 1946, Calvin Lynn Hood began his life’s journey in New London, Connecticut. His proud parents were Paul “Pinky” Hood and LaFaun (Yarberry) Hood. Pinky was stationed after WWII in New London as part of training submarines until he was discharged from the Navy. From there the family returned to SW Kansas, near Dodge City where they had grown up and married. In July of 1950 a sister, Theresa “Terry” Hood joined the family. They had a small farm, and Pinky was working in the oil fields that was springing up. Farming was hard and times were tough. A decision to sell everything and to move to Hawaii where Pinky knew he could get a job working as a Civilian for the Navy. The plan was working until they were in Colorado somewhere, and the car broke down with what few possessions they had left. LaFaun’s parents helped them get to San Francisco. There they would stay while working to get funds to travel onto Hawaii. Lynn attended first grade in San Francisco. Family members had moved to the Pacific Northwest where jobs were plentiful. Pinky & LaFaun packed up their little family and moved to a town call Mapleton, Oregon. After about a year in Mapleton, the family was joined by another girl in 1956. Lynn, being almost 10 years old ask his mother if they could name the new baby Robin Hood and so now the family was complete. Short of living in Springfield, OR for approximately 1 ½ years, Mapleton is where Lynn would remain the rest of his life. The family had two farms up Indian Creek. First one was called the upper place and was the last livable house up there and then the John Taylor place known on old maps as Reed, Oregon being a stage stop and there was a Post Office. Lynn being a strong young man in Jr. & High school was called upon to help many of the older neighbors with chores like haying, cattle roundups, milking and even logging with Tub Beers. To earn summer money for school clothes he picked Salal, moss and peeled Chitum. But despite all the hard work and helping the neighbors, his one main joy was fishing. When in high school at Mapleton Lynn enjoyed, Football, Wrestling and he also sang in the choir. He was in the Class of 1965. The family would move off the farm and move closer to Mapleton, living up East Mapleton Road. Like most young men in the mid-sixties, he received a draft notice. Lynn chose to join the Navy like his father. He spent 2 years off the shores of Vietnam. He saw a lot of action aboard the destroyer the USS Rupertus. Upon returning from Vietnam Lynn worked a temporary position in Timber in what is know as the Pre-Sale crew, cruising timber for sales and fighting fires. He would not accept a Fulltime position for a number of years as he wanted to make sure he had plenty of time for Salmon fishing on the Siuslaw River.

the love of his life, Mary. She and her husband Larry Jacque divorced, and the romance and marriage began of over 53 years. He had accepted a permanent position with the Mapleton Ranger District. He instantly had 4 children when he and Mary were married on September 8th, 1973, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Friends Stan & Corny went along and were also married that day. Frank’s was passed back and forth a couple of times between Larry and Mary. Lynn resigned from the USFS to help out in the restaurant. Alas, he would look outside and see smoke billowing up and the Forest Service beckoned him back again full time. As the District was changing, so were jobs being added. Fisheries! It was right up his alley.

Under the Fish biologists Lynn worked closely with them. His knowledge of critical areas for fish habitat rehabilitation was helpful. He’d fished all those areas for year. He taught many young people about fish and the needs in the streams on the forest with summer crews. He traveled to British Columbia to work with their Fisheries in Canada. He also received an award presented to him by the USDA FS in Washington, D.C. for his work on the Siuslaw NF. Lynn worked in the Fisheries Dept until his retirement.

After retirement Lynn always had a wood project going and loved turning unique Maple wood bowls on his lathe. But he still loved fishing, so he and Mary managed the C & D dock for about 5 years. Lynns life was always filled with fishing. Guiding fishing trips, teaching and taking family members and friends fishing was a joy for him.

After a short illness Lynn would go home to Mapleton one last time. A special thank you to Vanessa Buss for making it possible for that to happen as that is where he wanted to be. He passed away on March 1, 2026. Lynn was preceded in death by his parents, Pinky and LaFaun Hood, sister Terry Green and her husband Eldon, brother-in-law Chuck Mawhinney and son-in-law John Quinlan. He is survived by his wife Mary Hood of 53 years. Children: Mike Jacque (Cynthia), Jessica Jacque Quinlan, John Jacque (Mary) and Dustina Jacque. Grandchildren: Lauren Jacque, Lila Marroquin, Sara Marroquin (Kent), Nicholas (Mandy) Jacque, Cherie Jacque, Eric Coleman, Jennifer Coleman, Ryan Coleman. Great Grandchildren: Natalie & Isabelle (twins) Skrondahl and Edwin Skrondahl. Sister: Robin Hood Mawhinney. Nephews: Kelly Green, Don, Dennis & Cody Mawhinney and numerous cousins.

So one last time Lynn has “Gone Fishing”.

that they had received information which was incomplete. They did what we patients always need to do when things don’t seem to be going right – CALL. Well, as that discussion came to an end of sorts, I spoke up about the difficulty patients had in getting their Patient Advocate registered with the clinic. I explained the difficulty I had in coming to an understanding with the clinic on how it needed to be done. During discussion of my concern, a member of the committee spoke up and brought me up to date about what is actually going on with

what I have been calling Patient Advocate. This was the first time anyone had told me that many Healthcare Systems plus PeaceHealth already had a term for that called Support Person. I was so glad to hear that because we “finally” had a term for that person. That is such an advance from Patient Advocate (which many would not understand) and simply a Contact. I do believe everyone will understand the role of a Support Person. Plus, if or when that person needs to speak with someone at the clinic about the patient he/she

is supporting, there will be much greater attention given to that call. I promised Lisa, who was leading the meeting, and Tony who knew that PeaceHealth and many other medical practices already use the Support Person term that I would be presenting this information in an upcoming article. And here it is! From here on (until it changes) the person chosen by the patient as his/ her Support Person will be known as a SUPPORT PERSON. Forget Patient Advocate and Contact. This is a special person with a special role in someone’s healthcare.

In the early 70’s a new family moved to town and purchased Frank’s Bar and Restaurant. It was there that he would meet

A Celebration of his Life will be held on June 20th, 2026, in Mapleton, OR at the Lions Club at noon. Donations in his memory can be made to Mapleton High School student body account at Banner Bank or mailed directly to the high school; Attn: Tucker Ford. He is in charge of the gardening and chicken program at the school.

conduct 2 and resisting arrest.

At 8:38 p.m., a caller reported their juvenile son had punched a wall inside a home. Officers arrived to find no injuries had occurred, and a report was taken.

At 11:51 p.m., a caller reported hearing a loud noise and banging in the area of 36th and Pine. Officers arrived to find the area quiet. No further action was taken.

WEDNESDAY, J UNE 3

At 12:34 a.m., a caller reported a possibly intoxicated subject driving in the area of 6th Street and Highway 101. Officers were able to locate the vehicle and conduct a field sobriety test. Steven

Gerderic was arrested for DUII.

At 11:01 a.m., a caller reported dump trucks driving too fast in the area of Harbor Vista and the North jetty. Officers contacted dump truck drivers and advised them to slow down.

At 11:29 a.m., a caller reported a subject in the Bay Street gazebo inappropriately touching himself under his clothing. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who said he had done nothing of the kind. Officers reviewed local surveillance footage, wherein the subject was determined to have been cleaning himself with a rag. No further action was taken.

At 12:10 p.m., a caller reported losing a Chihuahua in the 600 block of Rhododendron Drive near Exploding Whale Park. At 12:41 p.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of Maple for a reported domestic dispute occurring. Officers arrived to find a dispute between a male and a female and contacted the female. The male subject was located later and arrested for contempt of court. At 4:31 p.m., a caller reported a vehicle with a trailer trying to pass vehicles over double yellow lines in the area of Highway 101 and 126

Douglas Sorensen

January 24, 1961 - November 4, 2025

Douglas Oliver Sorensen, 64, of Florence, Oregon, passed away on Nov. 4, 2025, in Springfield, Oregon of natural causes.

Doug was born in Barstow, CA. Their family moved to Eagle, Idaho in 1971. Doug grew up in the Eagle Idaho area. Doug Graduated from Meridian High School in 1979. He moved to Ashland, Oregon soon after graduation, to join his friend Paul’s band, the Heartless Dodgers, where he was a drummer. He later joined the band “Cities”. Between the two bands he played for a total of 10 years. Doug worked for Bi-Mart in Ashland, OR. and transferred to Florence in 1989 where he helped open the new store, He worked for the next 37 years retiring in June of 2024. Doug was kind to everybody

he met. He was a Reserve Police officer for Florence. He was very active in the Siuslaw Rod and Gun Club. He was a Safety and Small Arms instructor for many years. Doug was fiercely loyal to family and friends. He loved Reunions, Holiday parties, the Oregon Ducks Rhodie Days, and the 4th of July was his favorite holiday. He is survived by his mother and all of his siblings and various nieces and nephews. Proceeded in death by his father, nephew and niece.

In lieu of flowers, there is a fund set up at Oregon Pacific Bank in Florence. Please join us to celebrate Doug’s life Sunday, June 28, 2026, at the Siuslaw Rod and Gun club 87227 Munsel Lake Road Florence, Oregon from 2-4 pm.

November 24, 1931 - May 18, 2026

It is with full and heavy hearts that we announce the death of our beloved mom, grandma, and great-grandma, Angelina Bower, on May 18, 2026. She was 94 years old.

Julie, as her friends called her, was born in 1931 in Follansbee, WV to Dominic and Ida Settimio and grew up with two brothers and four sisters.

While attending the Ohio State University to become a dental hygienist, Julie was struck by a snowball thrown by a handsome young med student who would become her husband, Fred. She and Fred married in 1951 and embarked on a life filled with love, adventure, and family that stretched from Ohio and West Virginia to California, and finally to Florence, Oregon where they lived the rest of their lives. Together they grew a medical practice, hosted parties ranging from weenie roasts on their deck to large picnics for the members of the Horseless Carriage Club, were fixtures at the Florence Events Center, the Rhody parade, and Fred Meyer, where Fred would sit and have coffee while Julie shopped and caught up with all her friends for longer than anyone thought possible.

Julie was a dental hygienist who started a school program to promote dental hygiene, a room mother, a bridge player, and a precinct chairperson. Her favorite role, however, was mom to her three boys, Brad, Ed, and Fred, who loved her as much as they challenged her, often hearing her exclaim in Italian “You try the patience of God!” Being a grandmother

allowed her to fully indulge in spoiling her grandkids, from making sure all their favorite snack foods were in the house to keeping “secret” stashes of chocolates where the grandkids would find them. Grandma never said no and was always ready to take her van full of grandkids to BJ’s to get ice cream.

After Fred’s death in 2019, Julie retreated to the home they’d built together and spent her final years surrounded by the memories of the life she loved so much. She kept up with friends and family via phone calls filled with inspiration, information, and the occasional questionable pieces of unsolicited advice. She remembered everything--birthdays, anniversaries, who was married to who and the names of that person’s second cousin twice removed on their mother’s side, her son’s elementary teachers, and the time one of her daughters-in-law accidentally sat on a plate and broke it. We will miss her laugh that seemed to bubble from her soul, her ability to hear whispered plans and conversations with caregivers from three rooms away, and her hugs. We were lucky to have her for 94 years, and know that she is keeping a watchful eye on us as we navigate the world without her.

Friends are invited to join Julie’s family at 1pm on June 29, 2026, at the Yurt located in the West Woahink Picnic area (from Hwy 101 between the first and second bridges on the right) to share stories and memories of our usually late, always great Julie.

Military Museum Celebrates with Open House

CAL APPLEBEE, CONTRIBUTOR

The Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum recently announced it is celebrating it’s 11th year of operation on Sunday, July 5 with an Anniversary BBQ. Held in the Museum’s parking lot on Kingwood Street, the festivities will include good food, fun raffles and free Museum admission for the day. In addition, members of the Museum’s Motorpool Group will have several restored vintage military vehicles on display to enjoy. The event hours are 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Board member Kim McDaniels stated “We could use volunteers for the BBQ, help to set up, take down, clean up, and man the BBQ’s.” Those interested in helping out at that event can contact her at 541-999-5526. She also stated “That while there is a new board, new members working hard to ensure the museum is a safe place to visit, we are still seeking new Volunteers as well as Board members.”

The Museum, which opened its doors in 2015 on Kingwood Street, has a stated mission of “To Honor our Veterans by Educating Our Public.” The Florence area enjoys a Veteran population of more than double the state average and was the primary impetus for the creation of the Museum. Its displays have steadily grown since then and is a destination worth visiting.

JEEP JUNCTION

RETURNS TO FLORENCE

The second annual Jeep Junction Show & Shine, a Jeep-only event, is returning to Florence on Saturday July 11th at Johnston Motors on Hwy 101. The event, sponsored by the Florence Jeeps R Us club, started up last year after a hiatus caused by the COVID pandemic. It is an event open to all styles and eras of Jeep vehicles. The event is held to both support the Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum as well as celebrate the celebrity of the icon vehicle which was created for the military at the beginning of

WWII. It is held at the local Ford dealership primarily because the Ford Motor Company produced approximately half of the nearly 640 000 jeeps built for the war effort. There will be a 50/50 raffle with proceeds going to the Museum, plus a couple of Jeep-oriented gifts will be raffled as well. No pre-registration is required. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. the morning of the event and Jeepers can register on site for $20. Trophies will be awarded in four classes: Military; 1946-1986; 1987-2006; 2007-current year. ‘Goody Bags’ will be given to the first 25 entries. Last year saw more than 30 Jeeps attend and organizers expect substantially more Jeeps this year.

Florence-Siuslaw Lions Club food cart will be on site as well. The event is open to the public and the show runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

SEAGOING JEEP (FROM TIME MAGAZINE, OCTOBER 4, 1943)

“From grinning Navy men the U.S. Army finally found what had happened to a missing Jeep. It had been parked on a dock in a West Coast port hard by a submarine. Next day both submarine and Jeep had gone. To newspaper ads asking for information leading to recovery of the little car, the Army got no reply. The reason: the submarine’s crew had dismantled the Jeep, stored it in various nooks and crannies below. It was handy to have around. When the sub hit port the pieces were lugged ashore, the Jeep was assembled, the crew had free transportation.”

VETERAN PROFILE: JEFFREY BEVERIDGE

I have known Jeffrey Beveridge for well over

a dozen years, back to when he was one my most entertaining volunteers when I served at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce as the Executive Director. He could always be counted on to be on time, always accepted any task, and always had a smile and cheerful attitude.

He’s an old sailor –having served our nation in the United States Navy from 1992 when he enlisted in San Diego, until his 1996 discharge at Bremerton, Washington. Growing up in San Diego was partially his impetus for joining up with the Navy, but the close relationship with his grandfather, a retired Navy Chief, probably had more impact.

He served on the USS Abraham Lincoln, CVN 72, a Nimitz class aircraft carrier, as a Quartermaster with duties including a variety of tasks within the Meteorology Dept. His ship saw action during Operation Restore Hope involving Somalia.

Following the end of that Operation in 1993, the “Lincoln” was involved in a collision in April of 1995 during Operation Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf. The USS Sacramento AOE-1, a fast combat supply ship, suffered steering failure during a re-supply operation, and collided with the Lincoln, damaging the carriers island in the Meteorology Department area. Fortunately, Jeffrey was not on duty at the

time. He stated that “Afterwards the running joke was, “How do you get to Dubai? Make a left through Sacramento! Lol”

The Lincoln was able to continue on mission but the Sacramento docked in United Arab Emirates for several weeks of repairs.

Jeffrey has maintained close ties with two of his former shipmates, and is active in the Florence Veteran community by participating with Disabled American Veterans, Band of Brothers, the Florence Veterans Day Parade committee and volunteering at Peace Harbor as well.

Following his discharge in 1996, Jeffrey pursued a career in customer service and became a Certified Nurses Aid. While not service related, he has struggled with diabetes over the years, complicated by some foot injuries. He recently underwent surgery to remove a lower leg, but it hasn’t dampened his enthusiasm nor his humor.

Always ready with a joke or funny story, some of which can only be shared amongst salty sailors, he believes “laughter is the best medicine”. Following his leg surgery while in recovery he enjoyed telling the nurses that a new restaurant was coming to town and has asked him to work as a waiter – the restaurant? iHop of course. Thanks for your service to our nation and our community Jeffrey!

Florence Area Veteran Service Organizations: American Legion Post 59

https://americanlegionpost59.com/ PH# 541-991-3240

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 23

https://davwebsites.dav.org/or/23/SystemPages/ Home.aspx PH# 541-604-5919

Veterans of Foreign Wars post 3232

https://vfw3232.org/ PH# 530-872-0771

NEWSPAPER

OUR STAFF

Joe Warren | Director of Publication jwarren@countrymedia.net Office Manager 503-444-7924 | snofficemanager@countrymedia.net Gary Winterholler

What is the 4th of July Porch Parade?

FROM HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Let’s celebrate together this 4th of July! We’re inviting everyone in the community to join us in the fun by decorating their front porches. It’s all about unleashing your creativity and spreading joy to your neighbors and friends.

Florence Habitat for Humanity will create a virtual map featuring all the registered porches, so you can plan a walk or drive to enjoy and share in the celebration. Community members and visitors can vote online until midnight on Saturday, July 4th.

Businesses, we want you to join in too!

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

Two City employees were recognized by the Florence City Council at the regular June 1 meeting.

Community Development Director Wendy Farley-Campbell introduced Jeremy Austin, a Building Permit Tech I, who received his accreditation last year, making him the first City employee to do so.

“Jeremy, over the year, has built on that work,

Register Your Porch! Registration is FREE!

· Once you register, your home or business will be added to our Porch Parade Map.

· The first 50 residential porches in the Florence area to register will receive a 4th of July Porch Parade lawn sign— look out for it to magically appear on your lawn!

· Encourage your neighbors and businesses to get involved too!

Step 2: Decorate Your Porch

Porches must be fully decorated by 12:00 PM on Wednesday, July 1st and remain up through Sunday, July 5th. Judging will close at midnight

his initiative, his dedication to his job, and he’s just taken on a lot more roles,” she said. “I can count on him to bring up items. He is a master planner of coordinating different departments so that our development community receives the best customer service they should expect.”

For his dedication and ability to guide and direct staff to that end, Jeremy was promoted to Building Permit Tech II, to a round of applause

Come take a look at our ever changing inventory!

on July 4th.

· Make sure your decorations are family-friendly!

· No porch? No problem! Decorate your lawn, sidewalk, windows, or any other visible space from the street.

Let’s make this 4th of July unforgettable by coming together to spread some community spirit and creativity!

Rules & Regulations:

· Porch Decorations: All porches must be fully decorated by 12:00 PM (noon) on Wednesday, July 1st and remain displayed through Sunday, July 5th

· Content Guidelines: The decorations must be family-friendly.

from council and staff.

ERIN REYNOLDS

City Manager Erin Reynolds has been with the City since May, 2011, and was promoted to her current position in March

2015

Assistant City Manager Megan Messmer said Reynolds has “dedicated her time, talent, and heartfelt commitment to the City of Florence and our community.”

“In her role, she has guided our organization with steady and thoughtful leadership,” Messmer said, pausing to sniffle. “She’s also one of my friends, so this makes me very proud.”

Under Reynolds, the City transitioned to a biennial budget

Displays should not focus on religious, political, ideological, or controversial themes. The focus should remain on fostering community spirit while staying at home. Businesses are welcome and encouraged to participate!

· Display Approval: We reserve the right to remove any displays that do not align with our guidelines or mission.

· Registration Limit: Only one registration per household is allowed.

· Social Media Participation: To participate, share your display by tagging @ FlorenceHabitat or using the hashtags #4thOfJulyPorchParade, #FlorenceStrong,

process, completed the City Hall and Justice Center remodel projects, advanced the Florence Urban Renewal Agency’s Revision Florence Project, and oversaw many major improvements, including Rhododendron Drive, Messmer listed.

“Erin also played a pivotal role in navigating the City through the unprecedented challenges of the Pandemic,” Messmer said. “She leads our city in day-to-day operations to ensure we remain responsive to our community and provide essential services in the professional manner our community expects.”

Messmer added that Reynolds’ background in finance serves to keep

#HomesCommunitiesHope, and #FHFH.

· Photo/Video Consent: By sharing photos or videos of your display on social media, you grant Florence Habitat for Humanity permission to use your images or footage across any platform.

· Judging: Displays will be judged through Saturday, July 4th.

· Winner Announcement: The winners will be announced on Sunday, July 5th,

· Winner Recognition: A special ribbon will be placed in the yard of the winning displays after judging.

Sponsorship $200 – deadline is June 26th

City Council recognizes Reynolds, Austin City

PRINCESS FIONA

the city fiscally responsible and prepared for statewide policy impacts, while she remains an active advocate for the Florence community.

Following a long round of applause and a photo with the council, Councilor Jo Beaudreau said it was inspiring to her when she came to Florence that a young woman served in a leadership position.

“Thank you for your dedication, time, service, and love for this community,” she told Reynolds.

“You really have the best interests of everyone here at heart, and I hope you know that.” Councilors seconded the sentiments, and Mayor Rob Ward highlighted how Reynolds’ skill and dedication affect other areas of government.

“Erin makes being a mayor easy because of the manner in which she runs our City,” he said.

“And what kind of city does she run? She runs a business that has a budget of $37 million per year, and is responsible, for the most part, for 72 employees. That’s a big job in anyone’s book, and we couldn’t have anybody better.” He said when he was elected mayor again four years ago, he was holding out hope that Reynolds would remain through his entire term..

“That prayer was answered,” he said. Reynolds expressed gratitude for the recognition and for the city team members who make eall work well.

NEW O FFICERS

The City hired two new police officers, Alex Jacobsen and Ethan Quesenberry, who are currently in the academy, but will start afterward. It was noted that the hires bring the department to full staff.

The City of Florence is pleased to announce that it transitioned its virtual public meeting platform from GoToWebinar to Zoom Webinars.

Starting with the Florence City Council meeting on June 15, community members were able to attend City meetings through Zoom Webinar. This change is

Do you have a desire to serve your community? Peace Harbor Medical Center may be the place for you. At Peace Harbor, we strive to provide compassionate, high quality, accessible health care and to promote a healthy community. We value having community volunteers in various aspects throughout the healthcare system. For more information and to obtain an application visit the Gift Shop or Front Lobby Desk at

part of the City’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, streamline technology services, and provide a more user-friendly experience for residents participating in public meetings remotely.

The Zoom Webinar platform offers a familiar interface for many users and will continue to provide opportunities for the public to view meetings and participate in public comment periods in accordance with established meeting procedures.

Meeting agendas, access links, and participation instructions will continue to be posted on the City’s website prior to each meeting. Residents are encouraged to review the meeting materials and webinar instructions before attending virtually.

The City appreciates the community’s patience during this transition and looks forward to continuing to provide accessible opportunities for public engagement.

For more information about City meetings, visit the City of Florence website or contact the City Recorder’s Office at (541) 997-3437

The caller said the vehicle was last seen eastbound on Highway 126 Officers were unable to locate it, and information was forwarded to Oregon State Police.

At 5:43 p.m., a business in the 700 block of Highway 101 reported shoplifting. Officers arrived and reviewed the video, identified the subject, and determined they will have probable cause for an arrest.

At 9:03 p.m., officers responded to the 2000 block of Highway 101 for a report of two teenagers fighting outside. Officers arrived and contacted the teenagers, who said the issue was “over mustard,” and that they were not fighting so much as playing.

At 11 p.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of Highway 101 for a report that a vehicle had gone over a curb and hit a building. Officers arrived and contacted the driver, who said she was stopped at the location when her dogs began to fight in the back of her vehicle. While turning

around to deal with the dogs, the vehicle rolled forward and into the building. Driver was cited for not having a license, and information was exchanged between parties.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

At 10 a.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of 9th Street to assist a subject whose vehicle had been reported stolen, but was found to have been towed.

At 2:01 p.m., officers and medical personnel responded to the 1600 block of 36th St. for a report that a child had accidentally ingested mushroom-infused chocolate. Medical personnel found the child showed no symptoms and appeared fine otherwise. Information was forwarded to DHS, and no further action was taken.

At 4:45 p.m., officers responded to the 1600 block of 12th St. to assist Child Protective Services in removing a child from a home (unrelated to the previous call).

At 5:45 p.m., a caller reported a subject walking with a loud speaker in the 2000 block of 52nd St. Officers arrived to find the subject was no

longer in the area.

At 8:30 p.m., a caller reported hearing gunshots in the area of 16th St. and Spruce. Officers arrived to listen, but found the area quiet.

At 10:25 p.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Oak Street for a report of possible fireworks in the area. Officers arrived but found the area to be quiet.

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

At 8:54 a.m., a caller in the 1600 block of 28th St. reported their house had been egged. Officers found no other damage to the home and were waiting to review security footage.

At 10:09 a.m., a caller reported finding a wallet in the 1900 block of 16th St. Officers were able to locate the owner and return the wallet.

At 10:32 a.m., a caller reported losing a clip with ID and bank cards in the 100 block of Highway 101

At 1:06 p.m., a caller reported a subject urinating in front of people in the 4700 block of Highway 101. Officers were able to locate the subject, who denied doing so.

At 1:16 p.m., officers

assisted sheriff’s deputies in the 2900 block of Oak Street with an out-ofcontrol juvenile. Officers contacted the juvenile and were able to calm the situation before returning him home.

At 9:40 p.m., a caller reported finding a husky puppy in the area of 8th and Kingwood.

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

At 6:29 a.m., officers responded to the 1200 block of Highway 101 for a report of theft. Officers reviewed the video and were able to identify the subject. Officers determined they have probable cause for arrest next time they encounter the subject.

At 11:32 a.m., a subject came into the police department for an unrelated matter and was found to have a warrant from the Florence Municipal Court. The subject was taken into custody.

At 11 p.m., officers conducted a death investigation in the 55 area of Shoreline Drive.

At 10:01 p.m., a caller reported seeing bright lights and hearing loud music in the area of 35th and Pine. Officers arrived to find the area quiet.

At 10:59 p.m., officers assisted sheriff’s deputies outside the city limits in locating a woman involved in a dispute. The woman was located and taken to a safe location.

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

At 9:44 a.m., a caller in the 2000 block of Highway 101 reported hitand-run damage to his vehicle the day before, but was uncertain where it occurred. A report was taken.

At 4:04 p.m., a caller reported a vehicle was speeding and unable to maintain its lane in the area of Highway 101 at Highway 194. Officers posted at the edge of town, but the vehicle did not come into Florence.

At 7:38 p.m., a caller reported possible harassment at an address on Harbor Drive. Officers found it to be part of an ongoing situation involving a former couple. Officers will follow up.

At 7:44 p.m., a caller reported losing a cell phone somewhere in Old Town.

At 9:47 p.m., a caller reported a possible DUI driver in the area of Highway 126 at mile marker 24. Information

was referred to Oregon State Police.

MONDAY, MAY 8

At 12:04 a.m., a caller reported various garbage items on the Siuslaw River Bridge. Officers were able to locate the responsible party and made them clean up the mess.

At 2:03 a.m., officers responded to the hospital to help with an uncooperative patient.

At 10:40 a.m., a caller reported finding a charge on their bank card ta did not make. Officers referred the caller to the correct agency.

At 10:59 a.m., a caller reported losing a set of keys somewhere in Florence.

At 2:47 p.m., a caller reported finding a hypodermic needle in the 1300 block of 10th St. Officers found the needle, which had not been used, and disposed of it.

At 8:43 p.m., officers responded to the 1500 block of 12th St. for a reported assault. Officers contacted the subject, who said he had been punched by another subject. A report was taken. To claim or report lost or stolen items, call Florence Police Department at 541-997-3515

in other areas to suit the large class.

“Now, 13 years later, their journey comes to an end,” he said.

which took place a week before in the elementary and middle schools. He said that for some students, it was a walk through their old stomping grounds, while for the younger students, it may have been an inspiration to keep working toward their cap and gown.

When asked, a large number of seniors stood for recognition as being those who completed their entire education so far in Siuslaw schools along Oak Street.

“That’s 43 students who started in Kindergarten in the fall of 2013,” he said, “and I was fortunate enough to be their principal at that time, as well.”

Saying the class was one of the largest to come through SHS, Harklerode noted that every year, a new teacher had to be hired at that grade level to accommodate their population. He said the High School also needed expansion

He said the class also boasts 15 honors diplomas, 10 Valedictorians with GPAs exceeding 4 0, and three Salutatorians.

In addition to the challenges of Covid and outdoor classes, it’s also the first class to need 25 credits to graduate.

Harklerode solemnly recalled Terrence Evans, who died in his freshman year at SHS, but whose two brothers crossed the stage to get their diplomas that night.

“We would like them and the rest of his family to know that Terrence was remembered warmly by his teachers and peers in the Class of 2026.”

LOOKING B ACK AND FORWARD

Following the presentation of colors by VFW Post 3232 Honor Guard, Outstanding student Will Johnson addressed the class. He recalled the hard work that went into reaching the day which, as a child, he thought

would never arrive. He told them they should consider themselves successful for having reached this point through years of hard work.

Recalling the phrase, “Oak Street for life,” Johnson said he has nearly lived up to it.

I look back throughout my life in high school with happiness, thinking of all the funny memories, but sad, thinking of each time I stopped when someone said, ‘it sure goes quick,’” he said. “I should not have shaken that statement off, because it does go quickly.”

Johnson went back through many memories of school, including sports, college classes, and other experiences, along with thos of watching his older siblings excel at sports in and beyond high school, despite physical disadvantages. He said he was worried as a freshman that his family might measure him only by his successes.

“Now, I realize how wrong I was, and how

I spent much of my life striving for something completely unnecessary,” he said. “My family loved me, regardless of how many touchdowns I scored, how many tackles I made, or how many awards I got at the end of the year.”

Saying adult success is often measured by external markers like wealth, status, and accomplishments, but during a writing assignment on redefining success, Johnson said he came to the realization that one can build a foundation for a great

life from the small things.

“When you live a life filled with comparisons to others, and completely artificial measures of success, you can never be living life to the fullest,” he said, noting that a visit to social media will make one wish for what others flaunt. “What social media can never convey is how someone’s life is really going,” Johnson noted studies that showed discontent and depression among influencers and content creators, as they stressed over analytics like views and

likes. Johnson challenged everyone to stop comparing themselves to those online and redefine their own success.

SO WHAT?

Outstanding Senior Danin Lacouture spoke of Apple cofounder Steve Jobs, who started in a garage and went on to purchase and build Pixar. Jobs attributed the greatest thing to happen to him was being fired from Apple, she said.

Lacouture said Jobs was orphaned as a baby by parents who wanted a girl, adopted by parents who had not graduated high school or college, and that he himself dropped out of college.

“He still turned out successful, so what does it matter?” she asked. “That’s exactly the thingit didn’t.” Lacouture said it bugs her to see people complain, blame, and give up at the first sign of hardship.

“This is what we call the victim mentality,” she said, “and I believe it is the biggest opposition to success that anybody could face.” She said everyone should ask themselves what they really want and how to get it while also considering the obstacles.

“While considering all of those things, I pose another question for you to mix in,” she said. “So what? Why does it matter? She said such challenges should not prevent people from working for themselves.

Lacouture recalled a 2005 commencement speech in which Jobs said those challenges were those that most benefitted his life, simply because he didn’t believe they would hold him back.

“We ought to believe that we can be bigger and work harder for ourselves than any force that can ever work against us,” she said. “We have so much potential, but only we, as individuals, have the power to make anything of that potential.”

Diplomas were pre-

easier to give up than to keep going.

“Because of those hardships, we formed a tightknit community,” she said, “and we moved closer than ever. What I’m most proud of in our class isn’t the test scores, trophies, or GPAs. It’s the way we showed up for each other.” Stevens acknowledged the same in teachers, coaches, families, and staff who made the extra effort.

Stevens said that while people often tell students to relish their time in high school, she hopes they recognize what they built in the graduates.

Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson in saying, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us,” Stevens added, “We have the grit, the courage, the dedication, the magic, to shape our lives into whatever we want them to be. The world is our oyster, let’s shuck it together.”

TAKE IT FORWARD

Guest Speaker Michelle Holman, a 25-year school board member and founder of Community Rights Lane County and the Oregon Community Rights Network, opened with the truth, “You are special.”

She said that while

Pump

From Page A1

within the required timeline, Public Works needs to directly purchase a custom-designed package pump station from Romtec, Inc. This will make it possible to receive this very specific piece of equipment by this October without waiting for the supplier to build it after a contractor is selected this Summer through the bidding process,” said staff reports. “This equipment will become owner-supplied and contractor-installed when the construction project proceeds.”

Items included are a precast wet well and mechanical equipment, a precast concrete valve vault assembly, two submersible pumps, and a stand-mounted stainless disconnect panel.

“This assembly weighs

L ighthouse

From Page A1

Oregon State Parks officials are hopeful it will come back on soon, but when it comes to replacing parts made over 100 years ago, it’s not exactly a plug and play repair.

Manager Hylah Furnish Park said the small wheels on the rotating mechanism

some students already know their next move, they will find their purpose and realize they have more power than they thought possible.

“Know that our precious world needs you,” she said, “so play an essential role.”

Holman recalled her own history, saying she continues to learn by making mistakes.

“I found that few things in this life are worthwhile unless you take risks,” she said. “You’re likely to falter or stumble at times in your life. Accept and learn from every experience.” She urged graduates to persist, and follow through, make time for

approximately 43 700 pounds,” according to staff reports. “The cost of $180 840 breaks down into $173,906 for the pump station and $6 934 for shipping. The pump station price of $173 906 reflects a 5 percent discount since the City can use government contract purchasing power through the Sourcewell contract, thus saving $9 153 on this direct purchase.”

“We do need to purchase this equipment now,” Reynolds said, “Because there is a long lead time for equipment such as this. It’s very specific, it’s designed and engineered specifically for our project, and we need to initiate this purchase ahead of even securing a contractor to install this project.” She said the purchase will result in an October delivery date. A standard proposal process will choose a contractor

have worn down to the point where the gears are grinding. Metal was ordered and expected to arrive June 12, so a machinist could create the new wheels. It’s yet unknown when the repairs will be complete and the light turned back on.

While those repairs are pending, personnel have repainted the workroom roof and window trim.

self-nurturing while showing up for others.

“Off-script, as it says in one of the restroom stalls here, ‘Never let anyone dull your sparkle,’” she said, to a murmur of laughter in the room. “Be kind to yourself.”

Having traveled the world’s schools, Holman called Mapleton unique and special, adding that a smaller school experience offers rare opportunities through more personal interactions with teachers and each other.

“Our talented and wonderful teachers and staff really do know you and your particular wants and needs,” she said. “They genuinely care about

to install the equipment. That recommendation will come to the council in July for approval.

In the FY 2025-27 biennium budget, staff budgeted $1,100,000 in the Capital- Infrastructure: Storm Sewer Repair budget for the construction of a stormwater pumping station as part of the Secant Wall project Work Plan Item. The estimated cost of the overall pump station project is $673 000 and with a direct purchase for the pump station of

you.” Holman told the grads that no matter what they do, they will carry that with them and be able to turn to the community for help in the future.

A COMMUNITY MATTERS

As if to confirm Holman’s words, Valedictorian Ramil Beers said the community has helped him get to where he is today.

“Not only has the community helped me, but it’s helped this whole class,” he said. “Growing up here, we’ve been surrounded by people who genuinely care. In a small place like Mapleton, it’s

$180 840, this leaves $392,325 left for the construction and commissioning of the new pump station. This project is fully funded, but some funds come from Covidera grants, which need to be used on a stormwater project soon.

The slippage area also crosses onto US Coast Guard property.

Last June, federal personnel began installing piles using a large crane next to the Coast Guard Station Siuslaw River.

hard to go unnoticed. “ Because of that, someone was always available to motivate students and communicate that effort and consistency matter.

Looking back on the events that defined high school, Beers spoke of times when it felt overwhelming for students. He said that to overcome them, students learned to adapt and rely on each other.

“We would come together and take that step, and that’s something bigger than anything you can measure on a transcript,” he said. “I think one of the most important lessons we’ve learned is that progress doesn’t look the way you expect it. Sometimes, it’s slow,

sometimes it’s frustrating, and sometimes, it feels like you’re not moving forward at all, but looking back now, it’s clear that every step mattered. We were shaped to be an amazing class that’s freaking graduating, so I would say all these hardships were definitely worth it.”

However, at a new turning point, life will become unfamiliar, he noted, and classmates will go in different directions.

“While that may feel uncertain, it’s also what makes this moment so beautiful,” he said, noting that graduates will make a future with everything they’ve learned at Mapleton High School and from the Mapleton community.

“Those are the things worth holding on to. Those are things worth passing on,” he said.

“Wherever life takes us, we should make people feel the same kind of push we did.”

Naming each of his graduating classmates individually, Beers said he will be excited to see how each of them shapes their future.

In closing, he asked his classmates to stay in touch.

“Life moves fast, and it’s easy to lose connection, “ he said, “but the people here today are part of your story, and they always will be.”

After presentations of several scholarships, diplomas were handed out by Superintendent Sue Wilson and Board member Maree Beers.

Has it been 5years ormoresinceyour tank was pumped?Then it’s time!

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541-997-8885

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

Dan Rankin takes over as baseball Head Coach

Will LOHRE Siuslaw News

Dan Rankin started this season as an Assistant Coach, but when Head Coach Derek Wells stepped down, he stepped up. After leading the charge for the Vikings in the final months of the season, he has been hired as the Head Baseball Coach of the program.

Athletic Director Max Perry shared the development in a press release on June 10

“We are pleased to announce that Dan Rankin has been hired as Head Baseball Coach at Siuslaw High School.

Coach Rankin, previously the interim and assistant coach for the Vikings, brings continuity to the program and over 20 years of baseball experience in Florence. Go Viks,” Perry wrote.

The Vikings were 4-4 early in the season under Wells before Rankin took control of the squad. Wells served as Head

Coach of the Vikings since 2024 before resigning in early April. In Rankin’s first two games in charge, the Vikings secured a doubleheader sweep against Toledo on Apr. 9, beating

the Boomers 7-0 and 4-1. After taking charge, the Vikings posted an overall 9-8 record and a 7-8 mark in the Far West League. They ended up fourth among the six teams in the league,

finishing behind South Umpqua/Days Creek, Douglas, and Sutherlin, and above Glide and Coquille.

Next season, South Umpqua is making the step up from 3A to 4A,

and the Far West will make room for Illinois Valley, BrookingsHarbor, and St. Mary’s, Medford. Next season, the Vikings will have

Reflecting on Siuslaw’s track and field season

Will LOHRE Siuslaw News

Another track and field season, and another trip to Hayward in the books for Siuslaw High School.

While winning a championship is always the goal, Head Coach Chris Johnson understands those opportunities are rare, and this season he was proud of the way his squads competed, each team pushing themselves to the level of a top-3 3A program in the state.

Competing in Eugene on May 28-10, the Vikings’ girls placed second while the boys took third. It was a well-rounded approach from Siuslaw’s boys, and they took bronze with 59 points behind Valley Catholic (65) and Oregon Episcopal, which tallied 67 5 For the boys, Johnson entered with high expectations. With so much depth on the team,

Johnson felt they had a good chance of winning state, but they needed to perform well and “needed some help.”

“We were really good, but we didn’t get any help. We needed

to go in there and have every single person hit on all cylinders, and we had pretty darn close to that,” Johnson said. “We didn’t have any really disappointing performances. I know there are

some kids who wish things had gone a little better here and there, but that’s track and field. You’re never going to have your very best performance every single time you go out.”

The two teams that looked a bit “better on paper,” Valley Catholic and Oregon Episcopal, performed just a little bit better over the course of the weekend, and with such fine margins, sometimes that’s just the way things go.

“That’s the difference. That’s sports. That’s why winning is so fun, because you know how hard it is to make it happen,” Johnson said. “We have a really good track team this year, they’re a great team. But we were probably a guy or two away from being able to win it again.”

While the boys made their run at state with depth, the girls did it through phenomenal individual

See TRACK, Page B3

Luke Sims had the drive to succeed

By DON HUNT Siuslaw Hall O f Fame Inductee, 2023

Luke Sims announced that he had retired from football after the eighth grade and had no intention of playing in high school.

“I just wanted to go home after school and ride by bike with my buddies,” recalled Sims.

“I was a little bit of a rebel, with hair down to my shoulders.”

Sims’ declaration didn’t go over well with his father or his older brothers, John and Andrew.

“John was in the military. He called one day and let me know that I would still be playing football,” said Sims. “No

ifs, ands or buts.”

Sims acquiesced.

“I really didn’t have any other options,” he said. “Being 14 years old I thought I knew everything.”

The 2026 Siuslaw Sports Hall of Fame induction is Friday, Aug. 21, in the Siuslaw High School main gym. Doors open at 5 p.m., ceremony at 5:30. Admission is free. A donation to Siuslaw Athletic Booster Club is encouraged.

Sims is thankful for the joint family decision. By the time he graduated from Siuslaw High in 2007, he had emerged as a 6-foot-1, 235-pound offensive and defensive tackle who earned allstate honors on both sides of the ball while

helping the Vikings to an unbeaten season and a state championship in 2006

“Honestly, if I had quit playing, I wouldn’t be who I am today,” said Sims. “There’s a brotherhood in football that you can’t find anywhere else. It teaches you so many life lessons and good habits.”

Sims credits former Siuslaw head coach Tim Dodson for helping to lead him and his teammates down the right road.

“Coach always preached to us about the red car and the blue car,” said Sims. “He said the guy driving the blue car always did the right thing, even when no one was watching. He had

good sportsmanship, respected his opponents and talked nicely to the refs.

“The guy driving the red car was always running his mouth, hitting guys after the whistle and talking trash to the other team.”

Be the blue car, Dodson stressed.

Sims remembers Dodson calling him and best friend Perry into his office just prior to the start of the season and asking them what their goals were.

“We said we wanted to be first-team all-state, both ways,” said Sims. “Coach said you both have the talent to make that happen. Me and Max lined up next to each other. We terrorized a lot of quarterbacks and running backs.”

The Vikings formed

The 2006 Viking football team was without argument the best in school history. It defeated opponents by an average score of 37-7, posted four shutouts and never allowed more than 14 points in a game. Five members of the defense — Sims, fellow defensive lineman Max Perry, linebacker David Mesa and defensive backs Jordan and Drew Rainwater were selected first-team all-state. Sims (tackle), Perry (tight end), Mesa (running back) and Jordan Rainwater (wide receiver) were chosen to the first team on offense.

Community Celebration at Woahink Lake!

This year’s event will be held in the pavilion area of Lake Woahink, near the picnic shelter in the wide grassy area. Enjoy a Freedom Day family friendly picnic with speakers, music and activities!

Our Keynote Speaker is Greg Evans, Eugene City Councilor and retired Lane Community College DEI Vice President. The local Lions Club will be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers (veggie and local restaurants will provide side dishes. Several non profits, including the Siuslaw Watershed,Baha’is and Siuslaw Childcare

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a tight kinship in the weight room during the summer months. They competed to see how many of them could join what they called “the 800 club,” which consisted of combining the weight totals of the bench press, power clean and squat lift. Sims, who reached personal bests of 280 pounds in the bench, 242 in the power clean and 315 in the squat, made the grade with an 837 total.

“We had several guys get in,” said Sims. “It was a fun way to compete, get stronger and form a brotherhood.”

The strength training paid dividends in the fall. Sims combined strength, quickness and a knack of almost instantly finding who had the ball to

Friends will be tabling with activities. Bring a chair or blanket to relax and enjoy music provided by Cascadia and Box Rat. Siuslaw Vision is our fiscal sponsor --- Donations gladly accepted at https:// siuslawvision.org/ (add note for Juneteenth Celebration). Come join the Juneteenth Friday, June 19th 12 pm to 3 pm

Tunnels to Towers

A community fundraiser will be held to benefit the Tunnel To Towers Foundation, which honors our nation’s first responders and military heroes. The event aims to raise awareness and funds to support the Foundation’s mission of providing mortgage-free homes to the families

become one of the top interior defensive linemen in the state.

“His ability to read and react and then find the football was phenomenal,” said Dodson of Sims. “He was always around the ball. And if the play went to the opposite side, he could still make the tackle.”

Sims’ quickness also came in handy on offense. He became one of the best tackles in school history, despite having played center the previous two seasons.

“I was honorable mention all-state as a junior at center, and I wasn’t very happy (with Dodson) when he moved me,” said Sims. “He lit a fire under me. I said, OK, fine, I’m going to be the best tackle you’ve ever had. I later learned he needed a strong left tackle to protect the quarterback.”

Sims dominated

and Why?” 2nd Monday 7:00 PM Interfaith Devotions 4th Monday 7:00 PM

“Reflections on the Life of the Spirit” study group Info and meeting location: 541-590-0779

Zoom link on Facebook: Florence Baha’i Community

COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH

4590 Hwy. 101 N, across from Fred Meyer541 997-7418

SUNDAY SERVICES - Adult Bible Study 9:30 AM; Worship 10:45 AM; High School Youth 7- 9 PM MID-WEEK- Women’s Bible Study-Tuesday 10:00-Noon and Thursday 7:00-8:00PM; Men’s Bible Study Thursday 8:00-9:30 AM; Middle School Youth Wed. 7-9 PM.

Sunday Worship streams live at Community Baptist Church Facebook Page

CROSS ROAD ASSEMBLY OF GOD Corner of 10th & Maple- 541-997-3533 Sunday Services 9am 1st Service in person Sunday Services 11am

2nd Service in person & livestreamed Wednesday kids/youth night is at 6:30 NOT livestreamed.

https://www.florencecrossroadag.org/church-online

Other platforms update after the service. florencecrossroadag.org office@florencecrossroadag.org

FLORENCE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP

87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach Road

RUAUU? Come explore the answer with us. Sunday Worship Services ~ 10:00am www.florenceuuf.com

FLORENCE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

2nd & Kingwood • (541) 997-6025

Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School for adults is at Monday, 10:30 a.m.

of fallen heroes, smart homes for wounded veterans, and housing for homeless veterans. The fundraiser will take place at Florence Event Center on June 20, at 10 am to 4 pm. Attendees can enjoy live music, raffles, auctions, arts and crafts, and speakers. All proceeds will go directly to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

WLCF seeks scholarship applicants

The Western Lane Community Foundation is now accepting applications for Continuing Education Scholarships for the upcoming academic year. Scholarships are available for students

virtually all of the opponents he encountered along the offensive and defensive lines until he went against the players from Sisters. The Outlaws were unbeaten and ranked No. 1 in the state, the Vikings were unbeaten and ranked No. 2 when they met at Autzen Stadium in November of 2006 in a showdown of titans.

“That was the first time I met a lot of resistance,” said Sims. “I had to work much harder to make a block and make a tackle.

“The whole season, Dodson had kept us level-headed. He made us think that we could lose every game we played unless we played our butts off. It never donned on us that we were really good until we smoked Ontario (34-7 in the semifinals).”

But Sisters clearly was a worthy opponent. The Outlaws featured

NEW LIFE LUTHERAN E.L.C.A.

NEW LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH, E.L.C.A. “Serving Christ by serving others.” 21st & Spruce Streets—(541) 997-8113

Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m.

Online services available on our FaceBook, YouTube, and website: www.florencenewlifelutheran.org

PRESBYTERIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH 3996 N Hwy 101 541-997-7136

Internet and in person Sunday Services at 10:30am, Adult Sunday School is at 9:30am. Call the church for details. All Welcome. Come as you are.

RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS)

Quakers in Florence invite you to Worship Sundays: 10:45 welcome; 11am Worship; Noon light lunch Suite 2285-J next to Beaux Arts in the St. Vinnie’s shopping center RESURRECTION LUTHERAN CHURCH, L.C.M.S. Worship Services 10 am • Bible Study 9:00 am Pastor Steve Waterman 85294 Hwy. 101 S. – 997-8038 Facebook.com/ResurrectionLutheranChurchFlorence www.puppro.wixite.com/rlcflorence ST. ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL Church Welcomes You Worship Sun. 10am Wed 11am

Taizé Prayer Services - 2nd Sunday at 4 p.m. Online services at www.florenceoregonumc.org or find us on Facebook.

FOURSQUARE CHURCH

1624 Highway 101 (next to A&W) –- 997-6337

florence4square.com

attending traditional fouryear colleges, community colleges, and approved trade schools. Students pursuing careers in health care, arts and education are especially encouraged to apply. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $5 000, and applicants are automatically considered for all scholarships for which they qualify.

Scholarship criteria vary by fund and may include academic achievement, financial need, field of study, or the educational institution being attended.

The application process includes information about your educational background, career goals, and financial situation. Applications are being accepted now through July 22

To learn more and apply online, visit

all-state running back Cory McCaffrey, the state’s all-time leading rusher who had gained more than 300 yards five times in 2006, including a whopping 417 against Marist. He managed to pick up 163 yards against the Vikings, but needed 38 carries to do it, and he never crossed the goal line.

The teams fought to a 14-14 tie after four quarters of play and the game went into overtime.

The Vikings got the ball first and scored on Cody Thrall’s 4-yard touchdown run to take a 21-14 lead. The Outlaws then got their turn, starting from the Siuslaw 25-yard line. They drove to the 16, where they faced a fourth-and-one situation.

The play blew up when the Sisters center snapped the ball prematurely.

McCaffrey had the ball for an instant, but he was swarmed by a host of Vikings. Sims knocked it loose and Cameron Thrall

Baseball

From Page B1

seven other squads to contend with.

The team showed solid improvement this year,

www.wlcfonline.org/ Scholarships.html.

The Western Lane Community Foundation is proud to support lifelong learning and educational opportunities throughout Western Lane County.

History Walk

Join in for a free walking tour of Old Town on Saturday, June 20th. Museum guides will point out historic buildings, and reveal the stories behind them. Along the way, you’ll meet the Museum’s Heritage Players and hear their portrayal of Florence pioneers. Meet behind the Museum at 11 a.m. In the event of rain, we’ll tour inside the Museum with the Heritage Players.

fell on it as the game ended.

“That was the craziest play of the season,” said Sims. “It was surreal.”

After graduating from Siuslaw, Sims planned to play college football at College of the Redwoods in Eureka, Calif. But he came down with a rare blood disorder and had an alarmingly low platelet count.

“The normal level is 300,000, and I had 11,” said Sims. “My doctor said no more football.” Sims was put on prescription medicine, left school and returned home. He learned several months later that the culprit was his spleen, which he had removed.

It appeared that Sims’ playing days were over, but in 2009 he joined a semi-pro team in Springfield and was on the gridiron for seven more years.

The sport he almost gave up at 14 lasted into his late 20s.

after the Vikings finished 5-16 overall and 3-9 in the Far West in 2025. With six seniors graduating, the squad will look different next year, and it will be up to Rankin to figure out where the pieces of the puzzle end up.

accomplishment. The girls won their second consecutive district championship by “overperforming everywhere they could,” something Johnson described as a “great victory.”

The Vikings qualified four athletes to state, and they made the most of the opportunity, taking second only to powerhouse Banks.

“We had four girls make it to state; that’s not much of a team, but all four of those girls had unbelievable track meets,” Johnson said.

Johnson credited each member of the team for making the most of their chance. Danin Lacouture and Maely Chiang both had great performances in the discus; Johnson said that freshman Sophia Stymans looks on track to be one of the best shot putters in program history after she placed fourth in the state.

AIDELL CADET

Maybe the biggest story on the girls side, however, was the performance of Aidell Cadet.

Cadet posted a personal best in the high jump, winning the state championship and setting program history with her 5’ 4 5 jump. Her leap was the second-best mark in Siuslaw history, just surpassing Caley Nordahl’s record of 5’ 4”, set all the way back in 2001. Cadet’s jump was also oh-so-close to setting the all-time mark, which belongs to Darla Geer, who achieved a leap of 5’ 5” back in 1983 In the triple jump, Cadet cleared the field with a score of 11 30m, marking a second state championship. Cadet holds the all-time Siuslaw record for the triple jump, thanks to an 11 65m leap at the 2026 Junction City Invitational. Cadet also took home a bronze medal in the 300m hurdles and a fourth-place finish in the 100m hurdles. Her contributions to the Vikings’ push for silver were invaluable, and she secured 31 points toward Siuslaw’s final score.

“She’s just a different level. I haven’t had anybody like her in a long, long time,” Johnson said. “We have one person who can do so many things that she just makes us so powerful.

So, she had a state meet for the ages.” Johnson said she’s earned everything she got through her hard work and her attitude through the entire season.

“That’s the essence of Aidell. She jumps out of her mind, sets a three-inch PR in the high jump, which never happens,” Johnson said. “She jumped the bar, she runs, she cheers, and she’s really excited. And it’s all authentic and awesome. Then she runs right over to where the coaches are to get some instructions. Well, Snake Ulrich says, everything perfect, don’t change anything, so she turned around, ran over, and starts high-fiving people. Then she came back the next day with the triple jump, handled that. She’s just incredible. She holds the school record in two events, and she’s well on her way to having ‘em in a couple more.”

With it being Johnson’s third time finishing second with the girls and a solid contingent returning,

he’s hoping the Vikings may have a real chance at their first title next year during his tenure.

“So, great feeling for the girls.

That was really just a fun time. And the four girls were just dialed in. And track athletes to the core,” Johnson said. “You can tell I’m pretty excited about the girls team.”

REFLECTIONS

When all was said and done, the Vikings headed back to Florence on the team bus. While the girls were ecstatic with their state meet performance, the reactions of the boys were more mixed. The boys’ team is amid a historic run for the program, placing first in 2023, third in 2024, first in 2025, and third this season.

Not capturing a state title hurt because the standard has been raised by the success of previous seasons.

Despite not repeating their state title, there were still some amazing individual performances that brought the Vikings to the brink of victory.

Henry Stone showed his competitive steel in the 3000m, taking second as a sophomore and never giving up. Johnson said Stone is an athlete who “gives it his all,” and though that’s a “cliche,” he truly embodies that competitive spirit.

Senior speedster Thomas Morgan has had a phenomenal season for the Vikings, winning state titles in the 100m and 200m. Morgan’s season will also live in the Siuslaw history books. At districts, Morgan made program history in the 100m, breaking a record that had stood for almost 50 years. Morgan ran a 10 91, just .03 seconds faster than Joe Hill’s 1979 mark of 10 94 Morgan also took the district title in the 200m, running a 22 56 It was something the program legend was tracking all along.

“When Tom broke the school record, which is from 1979: Joe Hill, who has our long jump record, and has our 100m and 200m record, and played at Oregon and was a superstar. We’ve been talking this year, and when Thomas broke it, I texted him and said, ‘Hey Joe, I just wanted to let you know, Thomas just broke your record,’ and he said, ‘I know, I’m watching,’” Johnson said. “He was watching the district meet on Athletic. net. And Joe told me to tell Tom, Aidell, and Will that him watching them compete rekindled some energy in him that he hadn’t had in a long time.”

Hill told Johnson that their competitive spirit brought back some of the feeling he had of being a Siuslaw athlete. When Johnson relayed the message, it meant something to the current Vikings.

“I told them, ‘You guys, there’s people who were here 50 years ago, it still matters to them what you’re doing right now. You’re a part of something really special,’” Johnson told them.

The legacy that this year’s team leaves will live long just like the marks that came before them.

WILL JOHNSON

Someone who’s sure to leave their imprint on the program is senior Will Johnson.

Johnson went out on top in his final year at state, taking first in the long jump, second in the triple jump, and fourth in the pole vault. Johnson’s leap in the long jump measured 6 61m, beating out the second-place finisher’s mark of 6 54m. In the triple jump, Johnson posted a mark of 13 81m. Lastly, Johnson scored a season-best 4 31m in the pole vault, which earned him fourth place.

While his marks and results were impressive, it wasn’t quite the state

meet Johnson expected from himself. Chris Johnson talked about how difficult a meet it was, even despite the major points he scored for the Vikings.

After winning the long jump, Will Johnson just didn’t quite have it in the triple jump, despite being the school record holder and being one of the absolute best in the state in the event.

“Will’s triple jump, that was a rough one,” Chris Johnson said. “Will is the best triple jumper in 3A history. The record [that he broke] was also 47 years old, and Mike Roe, who had that record, is a seven-foot high jumper.

He’s a folk hero. He’s a town folk hero. He’s a legend, right?

And Will jumped two feet further than him, and a record that stood for 47 years. So if you think about what that means, a guy who everybody around town knows remembers this, the folklore of Mike Rowe. And then not only do you beat the record, but you beat it by two feet.”

When it came to the state title jumps, Will was leading the whole time, and on the last jump, he was passed by taking second behind Valley Catholic’s Elijah Schaal, who jumped 13 95m, a new personal record for him. On Will’s final jump, it just didn’t

quite go his way. “He had a big jump, probably big enough to win, and he fouled by a quarter of an inch; I mean, that’s track and field,” Chris Johnson said.

While Will has always been a hard worker and never skipped out on the preparation, that’s just how things break in a sport that is decided by the finest margins.

Despite the disappointing result, Johnson went right over to the pole vault and gave it his all, taking fourth and scoring more important team points. And after that, he went and ran the 4x400 to try and keep the Vikings in it. While it would have been the perfect ending for him to take a deserved title in the triple jump, it’s not something that will diminish his place in Siuslaw lore. I just can’t say enough

about Will Johnson. That kid wears his heart on his sleeve; he’s competitive, and he’s a legend,” Chris Johnson said. “There’s no question that Will Johnson is going to be remembered as one of the greatest athletes Siuslaw High School has ever had. And he could have played any sport. He’s that good.” In the end, winning is hard, and you can’t win every year. While that will always be the goal for Coach Johnson and his teams, what’s important to remember is to put in the work to achieve a championship standard, even if the hardware doesn’t follow.

While this won’t go down as a championship season, many of the athletes who competed for the Vikings this season will live in the record books for decades to come.

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