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Class of 2025 - Continue to climb

By TONY REED Siuslaw News

June 6 to watch 102 graduates accept their diplomas and bid goodbye to high school.

Principal Mike Harklerode garnered an opening round of applause by noting that the graduating class was the first in the last five years whose high school career was uninterrupted

See GRADUATION, Page A6

Tsunami 101 Roadshow informs, prepares

By TONY REED Siuslaw News

PART ONE OF TWO

Over 90 people came to the Florence Events Center June 9 to attend the Tsunami 101 Roadshow where they heard the science of quakes and tsunamis and tips for surviving everything from a small event to a major Cascadia Quake.

The two-hour event featured information about how tsunamis are formed, the difference between a distant tsunami and a local tsunami, how much time coastal residents may have to respond.

Before the evening presentation, tsunami and geological

experts spent the day training local government personnel. Among them was City Councilor Jo Beaudreau, who attended the full day of training.

Jonathan Allan Ph.D, a coastal geomorphologist with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, spoke of the evidence geologists use to determine which areas are most tsunami-prone and how often they have happened. A resident of Newport, Allan said he has spent the last 25 years modeling tsunami inundation on the Oregon Coast and also runs the tsunami program for the State of Oregon.

He said that among other research, Cascadia is in the

forefront of research when it comes to understanding risks and planning for them.

Allan went into great detail explaining how offshore quakes cause tsunamis by lifting the water up when plates shift. A tsunami can travel through the ocean at around 500 kilometers per hour or just over 300 miles per hour until they reach an upslope and generate high waves.

He said subduction zones exist around the entire Pacific Rim, and about 29 tsunami events have occurred since the 1850s.

He noted major quakes that have caused tsunamis, including

See TSUNAMI, Page A5

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

One consent calendar item on the Lane County Board of Commissioner’s June agenda would allow the County Administrator to sign a purchase agreement for a property in north Florence. According to the consent memo, the building will be used as a satellite Lane County Treatment Center within the Medication Assisted Treatment program, if purchased. The program will be run by County Health and Human Services.

Information in the memo packet states, “The need for a satellite treatment center in Florence was identified due to the lack of options for treatment of opioid use disorder in western Lane County. Proximate services are an essential component of addiction recovery, and there are currently no treatment options on the coast between Coos Bay and Seaside.”

The information states that existing data suggests there are at least 30 Lane County residents in the Florence metropolitan area that would immediately benefit from a

Florence Treatment Center and that number is expected to grow to as many 100 individuals by the end of the first year of operation.

“The proposed property was formerly a medical facility and appears to be ideally suited for use as a Florence Treatment Center,” the memo information said. “The Board was briefed in Executive Session on May April 30, 2025, about the suitability of this site and the advantages of purchasing the property as opposed to leasing space. The Board indicated unanimous support for issuing a Letter of Intent to purchase the property and begin negotiations for the purchase price and conditions of purchase, if any.”

Purchase price for the real estate is $1 760 000 and anticipated costs associated with due diligence or not expected to exceed $50,000. According to the background report, the transaction meets the strategic goal of supporting a safe, healthy county.

Listed as a procedural consent calendar item, it’s expected

FACILITY, Page A5

By BOB HORNEY and WLFEA CHIEF MICHAEL SCHICK

Here we are, approaching the middle of June, and I am sounding the alert and hoping to start a trend-for our own good. What would that trend be? Here is what I am talking about: LifeMed. Have you joined yet? And, if you know someone who is new to Florence, the approach might be more like – Have you heard of our WLFEA LifeMed Ambulance Membership Program? If they have heard of it, ask if they have taken the time to get their household enrolled (which includes all others living in the same household) - all for a single enrollment fee of $65 per household.

LifeMed – Time to Take Action

One would have to look far and wide to find a more positive immediate money saving membership plan.If you have subscribed to the Siuslaw News during the most recent 3 years or so, you may recall my previous article in which I was singing the praises of this LifeMed all the way from my living room to the Bay Area Hospital in Cool Bay. That totally unexpected heart attack-related ambulance ride occurred on New Years Eve 2023 when WLFEA paramedics David Rossi and Charlie York answered Marianne’s 911 call. At the moment I was hit with “that” pain, I didn’t hesitate to tell Marianne, “Call 911” which she immediately did. I will tell you, that

is not the time to be worried about paying for the ambulance ride. Nor is it the time to think you can avoid that cost by just “waiting it out.”

You need to face the music and get emergency medical help ASAP. If the trip was as a member of LifeMed, what your health insurance pays... IS IT! You have already paid for the trip and it cost you...$65. My delivery to Bay area Hospital by David behind the wheel and my clots being dissolved on the way by Charlie were probably aided by a very pleasant, cooperative patient who was in wonderment of his very first ambulance ride. Actually, I was thinking about the article I could write for the Siuslaw

News about my absolute good fortune with having this life-saving team show up in answer to Marianne’s 911 call. I love giving credit where credit is due and David and Charlie certainly deserve it! If you are wondering when the relief of having chosen to join LifeMed sets in, it is at the very moment you know your enrollment is confirmed. From that moment on, you and all other household members will know their future ambulance rides (if misfortune comes their way) will be covered by LifeMed’s billing of your insurance...not you. Please help us get the LifeMed buzz moved into high gear in Florence. I understand

we currently have about 1700 Household LifeMed Memberships in Florence. That hopefully translates to several thousand individuals in the program, but I don’t think that is enough for a town the size of Florence. I would like to see us reach at least 2,000 Household LifeMed Memberships by the end of this June 2025 I never see any list of Household or Individual LifeMed Memberships, but it would be an absolute delight to be told that Florence exceeded 2,000 Household LifeMed Memberships for 2025/26 I now bring in our terrific WLFEA Chief Michael Schick who will give you more information that you can use to help save a

life. Please welcome and follow along with Chief Michael Schick: Once again I need to thank Bob for highlighting one of our very successful and popular programs. The only thing he didn’t mention was that a LifeMed membership is recognized by many other ambulance agencies throughout Oregon. It’s known as FireMed in other areas but it’s essentially the same program we have here in the Florence. There may be slightly different rules and regulations and you will have to check with the transporting agency to determine how the benefits may apply in your situation. Please call our office at 541-997-3212 if you have any questions about this program.

Three Rivers Foundation Awards $720,000 in Grants

The Three Rivers Foundation, the charitable arm of Three Rivers Casino Resort, awarded $720,000 in grants in 2025 to 60 organizations across Oregon. From rural fire departments to food pantries, youth advocacy programs to mental health services, the Foundation’s annual grants continue to create a lasting impact.

The Foundation

Did you know Coastal Home Services cleans chimneys?

was established by the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians to give back to communities across Oregon. Each year, funds generated through casino revenue are reinvested in the region through grants to nonprofits.

“Giving is at the heart of who we are as the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians,” said Tribal Chief Doug

Barrett. “This year, we’re proud to give nearly three-quarters of a million dollars to nonprofits that support families, equip first responders, and care for our children. The need is great not just in our community, but across the region and we’re honored to share our resources in the spirit of giving that defines our people.”

A wide range of community organizations across southwestern

Oregon received grant support to strengthen emergency services, youth programs, and essential needs. Fire departments from North Bend to Winchester Bay are acquiring new equipment, receiving training, and gaining volunteer support, while youth-focused groups such as CASA of Lane County, Creswell Clubhouse, and Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students are expanding their services to support children and families in need.

At a luncheon held on June 3 at the Three Rivers Casino Resort in Florence, representatives from all the nonprofits gathered to receive their checks.

“Thanks to support from the Three Rivers Foundation, we can provide essentials like bunk beds and car seat items that often go unmet, to over 60 children in foster care. This funding helps ensure kids have a safe place to sleep and makes it possible to keep siblings together in loving homes,” said Jennifer Brown, Director of Generosity and Investment, Every Child Lane County.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Three Rivers Foundation for their $15,000 grant, which will help us provide meals to more than 230 homebound seniors in Roseburg and Winchester,” said Victory Webber, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Roseburg.

Dorothy Jean Jennings (Bass)

January 4, 1946 - Friday, June 6

Dorothy Jean Jennings (Bass) 79 passed away in her home on Friday, June 6, 2025 of complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Dorothy was born January 4, 1946 in Schulenburg, Texas where her parents had traveled so their daughter could be born in the hometown of her mother. She was raised in Santa Monica, California, and went to school there. She graduated from Santa Monica High School, attended Santa Monica City College where she earned a cosmetology degree, and then graduated from West Los Angeles City College.

She was known for her kind gentle demeanor, her ability to listen to anyone with a problem and her constant nurturing behavior. She was a Cub Scout leader for over 30 years. After she retired, she was able to travel for the next nine years with her family. She went to India twice, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Kenya, Tanzania, Singapore, Bali, and many trips to the Hawaiian Islands where she had relatives and friends.

“As demand continues to grow and funding becomes harder to secure, support like this is so great. For many of our clients, their Meals on Wheels driver may be the only person they see all day. Being able to support all those nonprofits is just a huge blessing for everybody.”

Additional funding is helping to combat food insecurity through programs like Florence Food Share, while groups such as NAMI Lane County and Our Community Birth Center are improving access to mental and maternal health care, while support for SquareOne Villages addresses housing needs.

“The Three Rivers Foundation awarded us $33,250 for five Flock cameras and two years of service,” said Florence Police Chief John Pitcher. “This technology is a major benefit to public safety and the safety of our community. It helps us track stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and support investigations. Even the one camera we tested has already made a real impact.”

“The Three Rivers Foundation has been so generous, and because of the funding, we will be bringing the Siuslaw Area Resource Center, a multi-agency resource and community center to Florence,” said Bob Teter, executive director of Siuslaw Outreach Services. “Their $76,000 grant is a huge boost, helping make our fiveyear dream a reality by supporting cultural education and self-sufficiency programs like financial literacy, tenant rights, and safety planning. We’re also honoring the Siuslaw Tribe by incorporating their language and history into the center’s signage and digital materials.”

In September 1973, she moved with her husband and her first son to Florence, Oregon where she spent the next 52 years of her life. She had a burning desire to become a schoolteacher. She attended the University of Oregon and graduated with a degree in Secondary Education. After substituting for several years, she returned to college, this time to Oregon State University and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught elementary school at Siuslaw School District for 25 years before retiring in 2007.

In 2014 she suffered from a rare brain disease and from dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. For the next 11 years, she was cared for by her husband and eventually her caregivers in her home. She leaves a legacy of a strong family that she helped to create and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her younger brother Glenn Bass, and her sister Carolin Bass. She is survived by her husband of 59 years Karl Jennings, her sons, Thomas Jennings and his wife Pam, Joseph Jennings and his wife Apeksha, her sister Beverly Wilder, her brother David Bass and seven grandchildren.

age of 82 following a valiant battle with cancer. DEATH NOTICES

POLICE LOG

The Florence Police Department responded to the following calls from June 4 to June 10

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4

At 12:10 p.m., a subject came into the department to turn himself in after an incident where officers were reportedly pursuing him. Subject was taken into custody.

At 12:17 p.m., officers responded to the area of Highway 101 near 21st St. for a report of possible shots fired. Officers spoke to people in the area, one of whom thought the noise may have been a backfiring vehicle.

At 12:31 p.m., a caller reported possible theft of items from her house by a known subject. When asked, the caller declined to press charges.

At 4:30 p.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of Highway 101 for a report of a dog in a vehicle. Officers arrived to find the windows down and the dog in no danger.

At 4:34 p.m., officers responded to the 1500 block of Highway 101 for a report that a subject stole a beer from a business and walked out. Officers were able to locate the subject, still in possession of the beer, and arrested him for Theft 3 and a misdemeanor warrant from Coos County.

At 4:37 p.m., a caller reported that his father had lost his wedding ring somewhere in the Florence area. No further description was provided.

At 5:11 p.m., a caller in the 2400 block of Highway 101 reported loud music from a business in the area. Officers arrived to find the music has been turned down and advised the caller that music is only prohibited after 10 p.m..

At 7:53 p.m., officers responded to the 1100 block of Hemlock Street for reported harassment. Officers arrived to find a verbal dispute over a parking spot, which was on private property inside a homeowners association. No further action was taken.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

At 9:39 a.m., officers responded to the area of 20th St. and Spruce Street for a report of a young juvenile male roaming the area. Officers contacted the 7-year-old juvenile who said he was running away from home. Officers contacted the child’s parents and returned him home. Officers determined the child was in no danger and was upset about new rules in the household.

At 9:46 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Juniper Street

for a report that a subject had made statements of intent to harm himself. Officers arrived to contact the subject, who had been drinking and recently gone through a breakup. Subject said he had no intention of self-harming.

FRIDAY, JUNE 6

At 8:27 a.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Oak Street, to investigate damage done to the Miller Park restrooms.

At 12:33 p.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of Bay Street for a report of a dog left inside a car. Officers arrived to find the dog was in no distress.

At 1:15 p.m., a caller reported seeing a physical dispute between a male and female inside a car in the area of downtown Florence. Officers arrived and search the area but were unable to locate the described vehicle.

At 1:54 p.m., officers responded to the 4700 block of Highway 101 for a report of dogs fighting in the area. Officers arrived to find a dog tied up outside a store and when the owner came out, another person claimed she had been attacked by the owner. Upon investigation it was determined that the person had physically attacked the dog owner. However, the dog owner had left the area and no charges were pursued.

At 4:19 p.m., officers responded to the 1100 block of 2nd Street for a report of a deceased subject. Officers determined the cause was natural.

At 7:52 p.m., a caller reported losing a phone in the 4700 block of Highway 101

At 10:49 p.m., a caller reported finding a credit card following the graduation. Officers were able to locate the owner of the card and return it.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

At 2:41 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Highway 26 noticed a vehicle that had been in the same place for a long time. The officer contacted two occupants of the vehicle who said it had broken down and they were waiting until morning to call a tow truck.

At 9:40 a.m., a caller reported having an encounter with three fisherman the day before. After a dispute over private property lines, they were asked to leave. Caller wanted the call documented.

At 3:10 p.m., officers responded to the 1600 block of 16th St. for a report of a domestic dispute occurring. Officers arrived to investigate and subsequently arrested one of them for Assault 4 and strangulation.

At 5:49 p.m., a caller reported that she had been on a phone call with a relative and heard a domestic dispute occurring, as well as someone striking the other party. Since the call came from outside city limits, it was forwarded to the Sheriffs Office for a response.

At 8:25 p.m., officers responded to the hospital for a report that a subject admitted for a police hold had struck one of the hospital staff.

SUNDAY JUNE 8

At 12:24 a.m., a caller reported receiving threats by phone. Case remains under investigation.

At 1:26 p.m., officers

ONLINE POLL

responded to the area of Highway 101 and 46th St. for a report of a kid sitting by the road with no shoes. Officers arrived to check the area but could not locate the juvenile. No other reports were received.

At 2:26 p.m., officers responded to the area of Kingwood and 35th St. for a report of a traffic collision. After investigating, officers arrested Michael Carpenter for DUI.

At 2:33 p.m., a caller reported that a bus had hit the fence in the 88 400 block of 1st Avenue the night before.

At 2:42 p.m., officers responded to the 900 block of Spruce Street for a reported theft of a chainsaw sculpture.

At 3:45 p.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of Bay Street for a report of a dog left in front of a business with a note on its collar. Officers found a phone number on the note and called it. The owner responded to pick up the dog.

At 7:47 p.m., a caller reported a neighbor in the area of 16th St. playing loud music. Caller was advised that loud music is allowed before 10 p.m..

MONDAY, JUNE 9

At 12:19 a.m., dispatch was notified by out of area law-enforcement that a possible stolen vehicle may be coming into Florence from the Lincoln City area. Officers were unable to locate the described vehicle.

At 7:13 a.m., officers responded to the 700 block of 1st Street for a report of harassment. Officers contacted a subject who said someone

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came onto the property and threw something at him. Officers were able to locate the described subject and arrest them for criminal trespassing and disorderly conduct.

At 12:16 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Spruce and Highway 126 came upon a large mirror that had fallen off a vehicle and busted in the roadway. Officer was cleaning up the broken mirror and several citizens stopped to help.

At 12:49 p.m., a subject turned himself in at the police department on a Lane County felony warrant.

At 2:13 p.m., officers

responded to the area of 8th Street and Kingwood for a report of kids riding an ATV and an electric cycle in the street. Officers were unable to locate the kids.

At 2:16 p.m., officers responded to the 2000 block of 16th St. for a report of garbage piling up near a house and a dog barking. Officers arrived and found two bags of garbage, no dog and no violations.

At 2:28 p.m., a caller on E. Glenada Rd. reported dogs left inside a vehicle. Officers found that the vehicle’s windows had been rolled down and the dogs were not in distress.

At 5:42 p.m., officers responded to the area of Rhododendron Drive near Juniper for a single

vehicle traffic accident.

TUESDAY, JUNE 10

At 8:06 a.m., officers responded to the 1600 block of 34th St. for reported assault. Officers investigated and found a couple had been drinking and a verbal dispute had turned physical. Officers arrested one of them for Assault 4, harassment, and criminal mischief.

At 8:50 a.m., officers responded to the 700 block of Quince Street for a report that a subject had destroyed the cable to one of the security cameras. Case remains under investigation.

At 1:52 p.m., officers responded to a campsite off Kingwood Street for a report of illegal camping with a toddler. Officers make contact with the subjects and arrested one for a Washington County warrant. Toddler was left with an adult.

At 2:50 p.m., a caller in the 70 block of Castaway Cove reported being “shoulder checked” by another subject. Report was taken.

Officers also conducted 8 welfare checks, investigated 10 reports of illegal camping, responded to 5 non-injury traffic collisions, and conducted 53 traffic stops. Since January 1, officers have responded to 9 318 calls.

Maps provided by oregontsunami.org show the major inundation zones of Florence being almost all of Old Town, if wave heights reach 15 to 18 feet. West of US101, water could reach as far north as 8th Street. The hospital is expected to be out of flood danger and the Florence Events Center is listed as an assembly point, along with several larger parking lots along US101. Most of Florence is considered a safe zone.

Tsunami

From Page A1

the 1960 Chile quake, the 1964 Alaska quake and the 2011 Tōhoku quake and tsunami from Japan. He noted that the 1964 tsunami only affected very low lying areas of the Oregon coast, and due to its topography, did not travel inland very far.

He noted that in a distant tsunami event, locals will not feel any shaking. He said residents will most likely hear about a distant tsunami before it arrives through national news sources and social media. However, the national tsunami warning centers in Alaska and Hawaii will put out the first news.

“You will know very quickly at that point what’s going on and how to respond,” he said. “But of course in a Cascadia [event], because of the proximity to our coastline, only 30 to 60 miles down the coast, the response time will be much shorter.”

He said distant quakes may cause a tsunami to arrive on the Oregon in northern California coast four to 15 hours after and will will be less destructive the farther they travel from the source.

However, if a Cascadia quake occurs, the duration between the quake and the tsunami shortens dramatically. He noted that the tsunami from the Japan quake reached the West Coast of the US in about nine hours. Depending on the region where a quake occurs, a local Cascadia quake could cause a tsunami to hit the coast in just minutes.

Based on extensive modeling, the likely impacts are that if a large quake occurs, it will cause shaking which will make it impossible to run or stand.

“You’ll likely have to drop and hold and wait out the duration of the event and moving after that,” he said. “Because of the strong shaking, we’ can expect extensive land sliding, it will have impacts on our major highways.”

Facility

From Page A1

to pass, along with other items, in a single motion and vote, and was recommended by County staff. However, the June 10 meeting occurred after press time and details about staffing and opening the proposed treatment facility are not yet available. A full report is pending. Calls to county staff for further details were not returned as of press time. A follow-up report on county expectations for the treatment center is pending.

He said modeling predicts shaking may last 3 to 5 minutes for a major Cascadia event and at least 40 seconds for a partial event.

“If it’s the full length of the Cascadia, it’s likely to be three minutes or greater,” he said, adding that a tsunami may follow in as little as 10 to 15 minutes on the south Oregon coast, since it’s closer the subduction zone.

“Here, and around Florence, it’s closer to about 25 minutes, and decreases to the north,” he said. “In terms of full inundation in Florence area it’s about 25 to 30 minutes… The scary part is down in Curry County where full inundation is about 20 minutes- it’s not a lot of time.”

Noting that the tsunami arrived in Japan in about 20 minutes following the quake. He also noted that in many past tsunami events, the first wave after the quake was not the largest.

POTENTIAL DAMAGE

“We know from past experience that most of the damage is going to be caused by the tsunami,” he said. “If you’re in an inundation zone, most buildings will be destroyed- the overwhelming majority of buildings will be destroyed. We can expect, in this sort of situation, that the tsunami will arrive on the coast very quickly, and the National Tsunami Warning Center is not going to have time to warn you. You’re not going to get warnings and potentially, telecommunications will be down.”

His advice? If the coastal ground starts to shake, seek higher ground as soon as it

LifeMed

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stops. A tsunami-generating event could cause shaking for as much as four minutes, across the entire western half of Oregon.

He said that by using historical data and studying recent seismic and tsunami events, experts can better understand the potential for earthquakes. Scientists have compiled the information into one of the most complete records in the world.

He said based on historical data, the average reoccurrence times for large quakes have been 500 to 540 years.

“So, what is the risk?” he said. “The risk is that for a full margin of error it’s 16 to 22 percent, in the next 50 years- fairly high odds. If you’re on the south coast, the risk is even higher, at about 43 percent in the next 50 years… This is what we need to be prepared for.”

YOU ARE HERE

A tsunami evacuation map of the Florence Old Town and Heceta Beach areas can be found at oregontsunami.org

The maps show expected safe areas, assembly points, and Allan showed a map of expected inundation zones, telling people to seek higher ground in the event of shaking or a distant tsunami warning. Green areas on maps indicate safe areas. Allan added that when developing the maps, very conservative estimates were made, with confidence that listed safe areas will not be flooded.

Next week’s story will include answers to attendee questions and tips for surviving after a Cascadia quake and tsunami.

LifeMed is a Membership Program which costs $65 annually, and will cover your Household* for the cost or co-pay of any medically necessary* prehospital care and ground transportation within Florence and the LifeMed reciprocal areas, that your current insurance does not pay**

• Will you bill my insurance?

As part of the Agreement, you give permission for us to bill your insurance carrier

• Why do I need LifeMed?

Most insurance carriers do NOT cover the total fee for ambulance services, therefore LifeMed covers any remaining costs, co-pays or deductibles for its members

(* See Agreement for details)

(** FireMed program benefits may vary and are agency specific.)

Stop By Our Admin Office or Call: 2625 Hwy. 101 Monday – Friday Florence, OR 8am- 5pm 541-997-9614

by the pandemic. He also noted that the senior class road signs that had been placed along Highway 101 downtown had to be picked up and replaced a couple times due to the wind. The signs had been moved to the entrance of Siuslaw High School for the graduation, but one appeared to have been stolen by the wind, he said.

Of the 102 graduates, 44 had been in Siuslaw School District since Kindergarten.

“It’s been an incredible honor of mine to have been your principal for 10 of their 13 years,” Harklerode said.

WE MADE IT

Opening with “We made it,” Outstanding Senior Student Macy McNeill read a letter to her class, attributing their success to the fact that they never gave up.

“Our class embodies what success truly is,” she said, noting that many graduates started as kindergarteners on the opposite end of Oak Street. “We were eager to learn and make memories that would last a lifetime.”

Those memories included Ice Cream Recess, Egg Drop projects and Foot Five Friday where students got to High-five Principal Harklerode.

McNeill noted that as middle-schoolers, the class endured the challenges of the pandemic and began to shine.

McNeill said students were welcomed with open

arms to High School by Future Success Teacher

Kelly Joslin, “who taught us how to not screw up high school. I think she did pretty well, as we made it to the stage tonight.”

McNiell acknowledged exceptional students and athletes, and the work it took to reach graduation.

“None of our journeys

were perfect but I know that each and every one of us has been successful in some way,” she said.

“This group of individuals, the academic weapons, powerhouse athletes and trailblazing leaders are examples of what success really is.”

In closing, she wished her classmates success in future endeavors, saying, “Be proud of what you’ve accomplished but continue to climb.”

EMBRACE CHANGE

Outstanding Senior Joel Sissel remarked on behalf of his class, excitement that school is over.

“For most of us, once we walk through those doors, we will miss this old, worn-down building and friends we must leave behind, the routines we got used to and the teachers who somehow

made learning- actually kind of fun,” he said. “If high school has taught us anything, it’ that change is constant.” he said that from freshman year to present, everything has changed and those changes brought the class together.

He recalled middle school teachers who warned that their tardiness and other behaviors would not be tolerated.

“They made high school sound like a place where middle-schoolers went to die,” he smiled.

“So when I walked into the school my first day, I kept my head down and only talked to my freshman bubble. Now, I can look around this room, and I see many confident, outspoken and capable young adults.”

Sissel said the class created a culture of

acceptance and inclusion.

“That kind of change doesn’t just happen,” he said. “It’s made, day by day, by people who care.” He said accepting change is how people grow and improve the world.

Sissel attributed the graduates’ success to teachers and staff, thanking those who helped and pushed him to be his best.

“It’s almost unbelievable that we are about to graduate high school as it feels like it just started,” he said. “I never believed when they said time moves fast, but now I do. The last four years have disappeared ion the blink of an eye.”

Sissel told graduates they will face more changes and figure them out as they always have.

“Let’s go chase change and make something amazing out of it,” he said to loud applause.

Macali Lade read the names of the 101 graduates, not including herself, before they crossed the stage to accept their diplomas from Siuslaw School District Directors.

BE BRAVE

ASB President Claire Lindell passed along the following advice from her own life.

“We don’t always walk into the next chapter with certainty and we don’t always feel brave, ready or enough- And yet, we go, we try and we grow, because the truth is, most of the best things in life began, not with confidence, but with courage. Do it scared and step into the unknown with open hands. Let fear walk beside you, not in front of you, and let me remind you that you are doing something bold and beautiful every day.”

After singing the class Alma Mater and tossing caps high into the air and reuniting with families in the gym, the former high school students picked up their senior road signs and departed Siuslaw High School grounds for the last time.

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

Mapleton High sends 11 into the world

CoastBusters Announces Temporary Pause as It Prepares for an Exciting New Chapter

CoastBusters, a beloved presence in the fight against breast cancer along the Oregon Coast, is entering a temporary hiatus through 2025. This intentional break comes as the organization devotes its energy to finalizing incorporation and securing official 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

This next chapter also allows time to honor the recent passing of CoastBusters co-founder and dear friend, Sonia Graham, whose vision and passion helped shape the organization’s impact and spirit.

“This transition is a necessary step forward to position CoastBusters

for deeper, more focused support for those facing breast cancer in our coastal communities,” said Jeanette Campagna, Co-Founder of CoastBusters.

“Becoming an official nonprofit will give us

the autonomy, transparency, and strength to serve our community in the ways we’ve always envisioned.”

Since its founding, CoastBusters has raised nearly $150 000 through purpose-driven walks

and heartfelt community events in Newport and Florence. With nonprofit status on the horizon, the organization looks forward to broadening its reach, becoming eligible for grant opportunities, and offering

more hands-on support to breast cancer patients and survivors.

Though events will pause in 2025, this moment marks a powerful turning point—one

Dodson carved his own path as coach of the

By DON HUNT

Tim Dodson had some big shoes to fill when he succeeded legendary Siuslaw High football coach Len Lutero in the fall of 1996. Lutero had posted a 199-90-3 record with the Vikings over 29 seasons that included 16 conference championships, one state title and one state runner-up finish.

“As I stepped in, I knew that failure was not an option,” said Dodson, who spent six years as an assistant to Lutero. “I felt quite a bit of pressure, although it was mostly self-induced. In hindsight, I think I did a good job.”

Indeed, Dodson took the ball and ran with it. In his 20 seasons at the Siuslaw helm, Dodson went 151-58, won a state title in 2006 and nearly won another one in 2011

with a runner-up showing. His teams qualified for the state playoffs 16 times and the undefeated 2006 team is considered the best in school history.

Like Lutero, Dodson was highly organized, his teams were disciplined and he was known as both a motivator and a mentor to his players. Dodson lost his father, John “Jiggs” Dodson, when he was 12. The older Dodson was a beloved teacher and coach at Siuslaw.

Tim Dodson leaned on his mother, Arlene, and older brothers Tom and Tony for guidance

and advice. Lutero, Scoutmaster Dick Hayes, Siuslaw Principal Glen Butler and future fatherin-law Keith Robinson – who all lived in or near his neighborhood – were there for support as well.

“It was a case of the village helping to raise a child,” said Dodson. “I had a lot of good people surrounding me and helping me to do the right things.”

Dodson carried the benevolence to his students and players when he became a PE teacher, strength instructor and football coach. He was known as a father figure to many of the Vikings.

“When you take on the role of being a coach that is truly the goal, to be a good teacher and a role model and father figure to the kids,” said Dodson. “And maybe my background helped me to do that.

“We were trying to teach lifetime habits,’’ added Dodson, “like getting to work on time, getting to math class on time, working hard in the weight room when the coaches aren’t looking at you.”

Vikings

Dodson took his compassionate approach a step further when he implemented what he called “afterglow” sessions immediately following games. The get-togethers involved gathering around in a circle and offering “attaboys” to those who had made big plays during the game or contributed in some other way. Many of the players’ parents –and any fans who wanted to observe the team ritual – stood behind the players, with Dodson in the middle of the circle leading off with a short talk about the just concluded game. And life in general.

Sam Johnson, who took over the program in 2019, adopted the custom.

Dodson borrowed the idea from former Pacific Lutheran University coach Frosty Westering after watching his team conduct an “afterglow” session following a game against Southern Oregon University in 2000

“It’s a time to share stories and talk about someone else,” said Dodson. “The whole concept is about bonding and forcing kids to talk about someone other than themselves.”

“And we were stressing to the kids to be a good person and a whole person in addition to being a good football player. Whether you win or lose doesn’t change who you are. If you lose

Challenges and Opportunities Abound for Three Mile Prairie

huckleberry bushes make it easy to disappear from view. But the same dense undergrowth makes it extremely difficult to clear out a space large enough to lay down in.

The same overlapping jurisdictions, diversity of ecosystems, and lack of access that makes Three Mile Prairie difficult to manage also makes it a unique opportunity for unhoused persons. For someone looking for a safe place to

the verdant undergrowth of the Oregon coast is both a blessing and a curse. On the

Three Mile Prairie is a rare place where the undergrowth is dense enough to permit seclusion but contains enough trails, gaps, dunes, and empty spaces to make setting down a tent relatively easy. Its presence within Florence’s Urban Growth Boundary and relative proximity to the Fred Meyer bus stop puts it close enough to the city that people can still reach services while being far

ANCHOR OF HOPE CHURCH

Live like Jesus, share His Love. 1318 Rhododendron Drive www.anchorofhopeflo.com Sunday Service 11am

Livestream on Facebook @anchorofhopeflo

BAHA’I FAITH OF FLORENCE

“What is Baha’i, and Why?” 2nd Monday 7:00 pm

Interfaith Devotions 4th Monday 7:00 pm Info and meeting location: 541-590-0779

Zoom link on Facebook: Florence Baha’i Community All ARE WELCOME!

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 CHRISTIAN CHURCH

2nd & Ivy - 541-997-2961 - Non-Denominational

Service is on Sunday at 10:00 am

Sunday Service also streaming live at 10am at florencechurch.com

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

enough from the public to gain a bit of privacy.

Such privacy is a matter of safety. Teter noted that, despite the relatively large number of unhoused people in Florence, encampments like those in Eugene are uncommon. The reason is because such encampments are dangerous places to be: gather enough desperate, suffering, and traumatized people into one place and issues like theft or assault from “peers” become serious concerns.

There are also threats from the community at large. While not common, Teter said it isn’t unheard of for members of a community to get together and go after unhoused people, either attacking their campsites or assaulting them directly in an attempt to drive them out of town.

In many parts of the United States the police would also be part of such violence, particularly in places like California that are responding to homelessness with force. But thankfully the Florence Police Department isn’t like that.

“Our law enforcement has been by and large pretty compassionate,” Teter said. They frequently reach out to SOS and Mobile Crisis Response to de-escalate situations and help people find resources.

Despite this compassion, the previous dangers remain. The safest way to be homeless, then, is to find seclusion and be alone, something that the unique factors of Three Mile Prairie enable.

Florence in general is a relatively safe place to be homeless, and SOS reports a small but statistically significant number of people who have fled the encampments around Eugene to find relative safety in the coastal

FLORENCE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

2nd & Kingwood • (541) 997-6025

Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for adults is at 9:00 a.m. Online services at www.florenceunitedmethodist.org or find us on Facebook.

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

Pastor George Pagel – Something for the entire family. Sunday Service 10:00 am Wednesday Bible Study returns this Fall. Website: florence4square.com

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. Reverend Greg Wood All Welcome. Come as you are. RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS) “War is still not the answer.” FCNL We meet Sunday’s at 11am in our homes. Call 541-515-8191

forests.

CONFLICTS AND CONSEQUENCES

Unfortunately that need for safety is at loggerheads with Mike Allen’s attempts to protect and restore the environmental treasures of Three Mile Prairie. For all the good work SOS does, and all the money that’s been thrown at the problem

(SOS disburses $600 000 to $1,000,000 dollars a year in assistance, 80% of which comes from outof-area and almost all of which is put straight into the local economy), there is at present no way to move people from a camp in Three Mile Prairie to a stable housing situation.

Both Bob Teter and Kevin Furber argue that the homeless crisis isn’t solved by throwing money at the problem.

“It’s a false narrative about a lack of money, but rather a lack of genius. It’s about the government not wanting to do hard work.” Teter said. “Throw money out, hope for the best doesn’t work.”

Which isn’t to say that money isn’t an issue, especially with the ongoing federal budgetary crisis and the end of covid-era policies. But the present way in which that money is used won’t work no matter how much cash is thrown at the situation.

“It’s not a simple matter of just providing housing,” Teter said. People have to be “ready to rent,” a complicated process that’ll be different for every person. While Teter strongly affirmed that drug abuse was not the main driver of homelessness, it along with mental health issues and the aforementioned troubles of getting a job need to be addressed before someone can meaningfully get back on their feet.

Teter was strongly opposed to “housing-first”

policies, where the main priority is to provide temporary rental assistance to get people into housing as fast as possible. Doing that might keep a roof over a person’s head for a few months, but if the underlying issues that led to them being unhoused aren’t addressed, then when the payments end they’ll be right back in their car or camping in places like Three Mile Prairie.

The main obstacle to that transitional period, Teter argues, is a lack of transitional housing. There is none in Florence, but it’s a much wider problem than that. The state of Oregon ranks last in the nation for transitional housing, a situation Teter says is severely exacerbating its ongoing struggle with homelessness.

While Teter didn’t mention it specifically, the central role skyrocketing rents play in the worsening homelessness crisis may imply that present policies targeted at reducing rents, like increasing supply or rent-control measures, are also insufficient to the task, given that that situation is getting worse.

Regardless of that, the current policies in place at the city, county, and state levels mean that clearing Three Mile Prairie of its unhoused residents would only lead to further displacement. They would either have to set up camps in more remote or more dangerous places, or join the large population of unhoused folks wandering up and down the 101, being kicked from town to town to town in an endless purgatory pursuing whatever assistance is available.

evelyn.lovelace.casson@gmail.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: This series will conclude next week with a look at the potential future of Three Mile Prairie.

Ham radio operators on the air for nationwide event

Ham radio operators from the Central Oregon Coast Amateur Radio Club in Florence Oregon, dba Oregon Coast Emergency Repeater, Inc., will be participating in a national amateur radio exercise from 11:00 AM on Saturday until 10:00 AM on Sunday, June 28

– 29. The Club will be operating from the upper parking lot of the Three Rivers Casino Resort. The event is ARRL Field Day (www.arrl.org/fieldday), an annual amateur

D odson

From Page B1

a fumble, that doesn’t make you a bad person or a bad player.”

Dodson’s teams were known for extraordinary performances by the Viking quarterbacks and receivers. Five of the top six leaders in career passing yardage at Siuslaw – Brandon Little, Gabe Haberly, Jake Mitchell, Jake Thompson and John Johnson – played for Dodson. So did six of the top seven receivers in school history – Josh Thomas-Dotson, Collin Cram-Watkins, Jared Kreil, Jordan Rainwater, Ryan Smith and Scott Gordon.

Dodson also coached Sonny Tupua, by far the top rusher in school

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From Page B1

rooted in growth, strategic focus, and an even deeper commitment to the communities CoastBusters serves. The organization will continue to keep supporters, survivors, and the broader coastal community informed as it prepares for a strong return in 2026

As the CoastBusters team shared, “While our path may be briefly on hold, the passion behind it is stronger than ever. We walk for each other—and

radio activity organized since 1933 by ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio in the United States. Hams from across North America ordinarily participate in Field Day by establishing temporary ham radio stations in public locations to demonstrate their skill and service. Their use of radio signals, which reach beyond borders, bring people together while providing essential communication in the

history with 4,449 yards.

“I was just blessed with a lot of great players,” said Dodson, whose teams put together a 36-game home winning streak beginning in 2002 that stretched out over seven seasons. Between 2003 and 2007, his teams registered a jaw-dropping 49-8 record.

Dodson also made his presence felt as a player, helping guide the Vikings to their first state championship in 1981. That team wasn’t expected to contend for a league title, let alone a state crown, after limping to back-to-back, 3-6 records in 1979 and 1980. But the Vikings soared to an 11-1-1 record, culminating with a 0-0 tie with South Umpqua in the state title game.

“We hadn’t won very many games coming up

we’ll return soon, with even more purpose, power, and heart.”

To stay connected and follow the journey, visit www.CoastBustersWalk. org and follow @ CoastBustersWalk on Facebook and Instagram. About CoastBusters CoastBusters is a grassroots movement—soon to

service of communities. Field Day highlights ham radio’s ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent, wireless communications network. This year is particularly important as it is the first time the Central Oregon Coast Amateur Radio Club (COCARC) is doing Field Day at the Three Rivers Casino Resort. Visitors are encouraged to visit the welcome tent and learn more about

through the ranks, in football or basketball,” remembered Dodson, the Viking quarterback. “We didn’t know how to win.”

But the Vikings returned 17 of 22 starting positions and they boasted a tight-knit senior class, of which Dodson was a member. They also had a vocal leader in first-team allstate offensive guard/ defensive tackle Don Peerson, who spoke in front of the squad just prior to its first practice and declared, “This (the last two seasons) is embarrassing. This has got to change. We’ve worked too hard for it not to.”

Siuslaw split its first two games, narrowly defeating Toledo and losing to Newport, before reeling off 10 straight victories before meeting

be an official nonprofit— committed to uniting Oregon’s coastal communities in the fight against breast cancer. Through community walks, events, and awareness campaigns, CoastBusters uplifts survivors, honors those we’ve lost, and inspires connection, strength, and hope.

Do you part and volunteer today to help support these organizations in our community.

Peace Harbor Volunteers

DOING GOOD . GIVING BACK

VOLUNTEER AT PEACEHEALTH PEACE HARBOR MEDICAL CENTER

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 Peace Harbor Medical Center at 400 9th Street, Florence, Oregon. Us Too Florence

ham radio. The club is hosting a GOTA (Get On the Air) station where all members of the public are invited to operate a HF radio, and watch CW operators make contacts with Morse Code. The Club’s communication trailer, a self-contained emergency communications center, will be operational and members of the public are invited to tour it and see “hams” operating a variety of radio equipment. During Field Day

South Umpqua in the title tilt.

Dodson had such a firm grasp of the offense that Lutero allowed him to call his own plays, something the fabled coach had rarely done.

“Him turning the offense over to me is one of the reasons I got into coaching,” said Dodson. “It forces you to think on the fly. If you lose three yards on first down, what do you call then? Lenny (Lutero) didn’t know what we were calling in the huddle. Talking about taking the reins off and letting the kids play.”

Dodson was a coach on the field as a senior at Siuslaw. But the best was yet to come.

2024, more than 31,000 hams participated from thousands of locations across North America. According to ARRL, there are more than 750 000 amateur radio licensees in the US, and an estimated 3 million worldwide. Among the tenets of the Amateur Radio Service is developing and practicing skills in radio technology and radio communications, and even contributing to international goodwill.

Hams range in age from as young as 9 to older than 100. A selfstudy license guide is available from ARRL: The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual (www. arrl.org/shop/Ham-RadioLicense-Manual). For more information about ARRL Field Day and ham radio, contact Chuck Burgess, COCARC Field Day Coordinator, learning@w7flo.com and visit www.w7flo.com and www.arrl.org/what-isham-radio .

Admission is free, but a recommended donation of $10 to the Siuslaw Athletic Booster Club is Encouraged.

Name:

Phone:

Submit online, or use dropbox at 4969 Highway 101, North #4 (around back) .

AUTOMOTIVE

M UST VOTE IN MINIMUM OF 15 CATEGORIES

The top two nominations will be named first and second place in each category. The most votes determine placement. Only one ballot per reader. Duplicate ballots will not be counted. Ballots from Siuslaw News newspaper only, photo copies will not be accepted.

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999 PUBLIC NOTICES SN25-158 NOTICE OF POTENTIAL ORDINANCE PASSAGE On June 30, 2025, the City of Florence City Council will review and consider the following ordinance̷… Ordinance No. 7, Series 2025 - An Ordinance amending Florence City Code Title 9 Chapter 1 related to the City’s deferral and

exemption programs for collecting certain systems development charges. This notice serves as official publication of the availability of the ordinance. The full text of this Ordinance will be available on the City of Florence website at www. ci.florence.or.us, on or before Monday, June 23, 2025, or may be inspected at Florence City Hall (250 Hwy 101). Persons wishing to address the City Council may submit comments in writing or may provide verbal comments. Written testimony may be submitted by: 1. Email to the City Recorder at cityrecorder@ci. florence.or.us; 2. Mail to Florence City Hall; Attn: City Council, 250 Hwy 101, Florence, OR 97439 3. Drop off at Florence City Hall (250 Hwy 101) during regular business hours, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or at the City of Florence drop box located at Florence City Hall to the right of the main entrance. **

NOTE: Written comments must be received at least 2 hours prior to the start of the meeting (June 30, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.) to be distributed to the City Council and made part of the record. Citizens may provide verbal comments / testimony at the meeting either in person or virtually. In order to participate verbally at the meeting, citizens are required to complete a speaker’s card at least 1 hour prior to the start of the meeting (June 30, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.). Speaker’s cards are available online at www. ci.florence.or.us/council/ request-to-address-citycouncil-speakers-card, or by contacting the City Recorder via email at cityrecorder@ci.florence. or.us or by phone at 541-997-3437. For more information about this notice, or any Florence City Council proceedings, please contact City Recorder Lindsey White at 541-997-3437, or via email at cityrecorder@ci. florence.or.us.

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