TSN827

A sight seldom seen

A community member drops off a mattress during the City of Florence’s Black & White Recycling Event on August 16 at

Florence Black & White Recycling Event Collects 170+ Items

CITY OF FLORENCE

On August 16, the City of Florence brought back the Black and White Recycling day – a popular event to recycle tires, appliances, and more. The event allowed Florence residents the chance to recycle a number of items at no cost.

Florence child care slots

to increase

50% with Elm Park Early Learning Center

The Florence Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) coordinated the event at Submitted

See RECYCLE, Page A6

Community members were able to bring nonperishable food to the Black & White event, which volunteers then donated to Florence Food Share.

City buys new dump truck

The Aug. 18 meeting of the Florence City Council was procedural, for the most part, with only two action items on the agenda. The first was the authorization of over $100,000 to buy a new city dump truck. According to staff reports, Public Works requires a reliable,

smaller capacity dump truck capable of transporting rock, gravel, asphalt, soil, and debris for street and park maintenance, water, wastewater, and stormwater operations.

“A 3–4 yard dump body mounted on a Ford F550 4x4 extended cab chassis provides the payload capacity, durability, and maneuverability necessary for work in

urban, residential, and rural environments,” said staff reports. “This vehicle will be the first of its kind in the City’s fleet, expanding our operational capabilities and allowing staff to perform more efficient and effective maintenance without relying on the much larger 10-12 yard dump trucks.”

See TRUCK, Page A7

Child care access in Florence and the Siuslaw region of West Lane County will increase 50% next year with the completion of the Elm Park Early Learning Center. Developer Chestnut Management has received commitments for 87% of the cost of the center, which is designed to serve up to 16 infants, 20 toddlers and 40 pre-K children, increasing the area’s child care slots from about 150 to 230

The 5,000-square-foot center will have four 862-square-foot classrooms with attached child and adult restrooms, a kitchen, administrative and storage space, and a 2 250-square-foot outdoor play area. Head Start of Lane County (HSOLC) will provide Head Start programming in two classrooms, and

community providers will operate two classrooms.

“Hopefully, the center will be the beginning of the end of our child care desert,” said Layne Morrill, the manager of Chestnut Management, LLC, who is developing the center in cooperation with HSOLC and the City of Florence. The center will be at 1025 Greenwood St., on a 0 37-acre site, part of the mixed-use Elm Park Planned Unit Development that the City of Florence Planning Commission approved in April. Construction is planned to start in November 2025 and be completed in August 2026. Elm Park Apartments, the residential component of Elm Park PUD, will include 32 affordable rental apartments (mostly twoand three-bedroom) serving families with incomes between 30% and 60% of the area median income. Construction of

the apartments began on June 13

The Florence City Council has identified housing and child care as significant opportunities for collaboration and economic development efforts in the City of Florence.

Mayor Rob Ward said, “You can’t talk about finding solutions for one without the other. The Elm Park Early Learning Center and the Elm Park Apartments will help our community move the needle in filling the child care and housing needs gap in Florence.” The mayor and council “are excited to see these partnerships between existing and new organizations in Florence develop and can’t wait for this new project to help move our community forward.”

“Elm Park is not just a school or an apartment building – it’s a place where families can come

See ELM PARK, Page A7

Medicare Annual Wellness Visit – Tread Carefully

By BOB HORNEY

I do not give the

“Tread Carefully” advice from my personal experience with the AWV but rather listening to personal experiences from others who have fallen into the pits along the way. I will also remind you that this is a FREE preventive health visit provided to Medicare participants. You may ask, and what are those pits reaching out to grab participants?

Well, the largest pit is likely the one where Medicare informs

POLICE

The Florence Police Department responded to the following calls from August 13 to August 18

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13.

At 5 : 52 a.m., officers responded to the 2400 block of Oak Street for a reported dispute. Officers arrived to find a male and female in a verbal dispute with a female. Both agreed to calm down.

At 7 : 50 a.m., a caller reported a dog barking and causing a nuisance in the 600 block of Siano Loop.

At 1 : 47 p.m., a caller reported that she had been the victim of a phone scam. Officers were at her residence when the scammer called back, so officers took the call. Suspected scammer hung up. Caller said she had lost some money to the scam which claimed she owed back taxes. However, her bank account information was not compromised.

At 5 : 39 p.m., a caller reported that a subject

participants that the AWV is “their” controlled visit. Remember – (Medicare) is paying for it so they make the rules! If you want to present any of your health concerns to the doctor, you MUST schedule another visit OR the doctor must list your concerns separately and submit them using a different CODE. Your other choice is what Marianne, and I have always done – see our doctor when we need to and forget about the AWV.

As I understand it, if any health concern is

LOG

was walking in the 2500 block of Oak Street with his pants down exposing himself. Officers contacted the subject who denied the report. No further action was taken

At 8 : 38 p.m., a caller reported hearing loud noises nightly in the area of Quince Street and Highway 126 . Officers patroled the area and returned to the location several times that night but heard no such noise.

At 10 : 19 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Highway 101 and 9 th Street observed a motorcycle turning into a parking lot and tipping over. Officer assisted the cyclist in standing it back up. The rider showed no signs of impairment and was not detained.

At 11 : 55 p.m., a caller reported hearing a domestic dispute occurring at a neighbor’s house in the 1700 block of 43 rd St.. Officers arrived and a subject opened the window and said the dispute had been only verbal. Officers contacted other involved subjects who appeared

Come take a look at our ever changing inventory!

submitted to Medicare that is not on the AWV, they will reject it. However, if other concerns are submitted under their correct code, they will go to the proper health insurance provider and the AWV properly coded items will be sent to Medicare and approved/paid for.

Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Yet, when I talk with medical staff at PeaceHealth, these missteps are happening all the time and patients are really getting upset often with the PeaceHealth staff. When one goes in

to have been drinking. A female subject involved in the dispute left the location with a relative.

THURSDAY, AU GUST 14

At 10 : 32 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 4700 block of Highway 101 for a report of an intoxicated subject inside. Officers made contact with the subject who was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. Subject was taken to Florence Police jail to sober up.

At 3 : 31 p.m., a caller reported finding credit cards in the area of the north jetty. Officers attempted to look up the subject listed on the cards but were unable to contact them.

At 3 : 41 p.m., a caller reported finding a small empty purse along the Munsel Creek bike path.

At 4 : 54 p.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Highway 126 for a report that a resident had found a small bag with a possible controlled substance inside. Officers looked in the bag to find a small amount of white powdery substance. While on the scene, a subject approached and asked

for a free exam and then gets a bill along with a denial of payment by Medicare, one has to wonder what is up. I’m thinking, after listening to patients and PeaceHealth staff, that it boils down to improper questions from patients and/or improper coding from doctors.

But...I’m still in the AWV learning mode... Now, how did I get involved in this? Good question...For most of my 24 years in Florence, I have participated in one or another PeaceHealth patient committee. Currently it is one called

if they had found a bag matching the description of the one they were investigating. Subject confirmed the bag was his. Substance tested to be cocaine and subject was taken into custody for possession. Shortly afterward, it was discovered the subject also had a warrant for his arrest from Linn County Circuit Court. Case was forwarded to Circuit Court for prosecution.

At 6 : 56 p.m., a subject came into the police department to turn herself in on a warrant.

At 8 : 10 p.m., dispatch received a third-party report that a subject saw another subject push a coworker. Caller gave no more information and no victim filed a report. No further action was taken.

At 8 : 35 p.m., a caller reported that they had returned to their car in the Port parking lot after work to discover it had been damaged by another vehicle. Officers investigated and found paint transferred during a collision from another vehicle. Case remains under investigation.

At 9 : 07 p.m., a collar reported finding a automotive jack in the 1100

Albatross Records

Patient Experience. Once a month, on the second Monday, we patient advocates, of which there are 3 or 4 on the committee, have the opportunity to present patient concerns to medical staff at PeaceHealth in Florence. Well, I was approached by a neighbor who had a concern about his wife’s annual visit always being paid for until this year when they received a bill for several hundred dollars. He gave me good supportive information about the latest 3 visits including everything that was discussed along with

any testing/blood draws, etc. It appeared from that information it didn’t qualify as an AWV, but... I presented his information earlier this month and we will see where the information is on the 2nd Monday of September. You may keep me in mind for concerns about your healthcare (good – unfortunate – bad) at PeaceHealth and let me share it (nameless) in hopes of preventing it recurring with any patient. That is the name of the game – stop it from recurring. Give me a call at (541) 999-4239

block of Hemlock.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15

At 3 : 44 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Highway 101 and 27 th St. Officer reported that driver showed signs of intoxication and a field sobriety test was administered. Officers arrested Jordan Brianna SweetenCapshaw for DUII.

At 12 : 52 p.m., a caller reported a large piece of metal causing a traffic hazard in the area of Highway 101 and 12 th St.. While officers were in route, a passer-by removed the metal from the roadway.

At 9 : 46 p.m., a caller reported a young boy appeared to be lost in the 1900 block of Highway 101 . Officers were able to locate the child and assist him in getting back home.

SATURDAY, AU GUST 16

At 1 : 18 p.m., dispatch received a cell phone call from a woman who said her boyfriend had just punched her. A male voice could be heard in the background saying, “No, I didn’t…” The call disconnected and attempts to ping the location were unsuccessful.

At 10 : 47 p.m., a caller reported a subject looking in windows in the 1500 block of Pine Street. Caller said they told the subject to leave but he refused. Officers arrived to find a subject known to them and identified him as the subject in question based on a photograph. Caller did not want to press charges but asked that he be warned not to return.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 7

At 4:22 p.m., a caller saw a wallet in the area of 10th St. and Kingwood. Officer investigated and determined the wallet likely belong to a child and was inside a yard. No further action was taken.

At 7:11 p.m., a color reported and unconscious subject and gave coordinates. Location was determined to be in Douglas County, and was referred to the proper agency.

MONDAY, AUGUST 18

At 2 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a subject known to have warrants for his arrest in the area of Highway 126 and Highway 101 Subject was contacted and arrested for a warrant out of Coos County. At 11 a.m., a caller reported possible abuse of an elder in the 85,100 block of Pine Street. Officers arrived and investigated, and found the situation was not as reported.

At 11:55 a.m., a caller reported a subject had assaulted them and had been menacing them. Officers are actively trying to locate the subject. Oregon revised statute 163 190 defines menacing as intentionally attempting to place another person in fear of imminent serious physical injury by word or conduct.

At 4:17 p.m., a caller reported a possible scam, where in she was told she had won a prize but needed to purchase gift cards to claim it. Caller said the suspected scammer said he would come to her house to pick up the gift cards. Officers waited at the address for some time, but no one arrived.

June 2, 1944 –Aug. 5, 2025

We are looking to locate Mike’s next of kin. Please contact Tom Haas at (307) 207-5100 or email thaas@allcountycowboy. com

George William Loftis

George William Loftis born 5/20/1930 in Clovis, New Mexico to George and Verley Loftis (Bedford) passed away 8/15/2025 in Florence, Oregon.

George served in the Marines during the Korean War. Was a TV repair man in his younger years. Made his career at Sperry/Honeywell for over 30 years retiring in 1987.

He lived in Phoenix, Arizona all of his adult life. He raised his family there, wife and two daughters. In 1997 George and his

wife Joyce moved to Oregon to be closer to their daughter, son-in-law and grandchild.

George was a loving, caring, supportive family man.

George is survived by his daughter Linda (Jon) Reeves and grandson Jesse (Lucas Townsend), daughter Rene Loftis (Fred Gilding).

At George’s request private cremation rites were held. Burn’s Riverside Chapel Florence FH/ Siuslaw Valley Crematory is in charge of all arrangements.

At 8:06 p.m., a caller reported a dog in the 1700 block of 43rd St. is aggressive and often allowed to run unleashed.

This is in reply to the Letter to the Editor from Dave Masko (July 9, 2025) regarding Senior Citizens and President Trump’s Policies.

AARP reported in their Exit Polling that voters over age 50 and older voted in favor of Trump. Several other Exit Polls showed similar results. He also received the Popular Vote and an astounding number of Electoral votes from all age groups and classifications. I do not agree that Senior Citizens don’t know what to believe about Trump’s Policies. While campaigning, Trump laid out his policies again and again and he is still delivering what he promised to the American people. You may call his agenda lies, but the American people voted overwhelmingly for him to do what he promised. Trump is boastful but honest, he is loud, but he does what he says he would do. He is one of the most transparent Presidents in history. (i.e. Answers many many questions from the Press in person about a multitude of subjects without notes, opens up his Cabinet meeting to TV Coverage, Meets with many World Leaders in person)The reason the Democrats and Liberals are way behind in the polls is because most Americans believe in Trump’s Agenda for the country and not in the Democrats non-existent and hurtful agenda. (Open borders, No cash bail, Sanctuary for Repeat Criminals, etc.)You may think people in Florence agree with you because the Liberals are the

LETTERS

only ones protesting on the corners, but Conservatives are not protesting because they are busy at work making a living for their families and don’t have time for such nonsense.

Jerry Sanford Florence

The Annual City of Florence Black and White Event was just another example of the power of amazing community collaboration and volunteer effort in our town. County Transfer and Recycling (CTR) headlined the event with their collection of tires, refrigerant appliances, and propane tanks. Lane County provided the grant to allow the community to dispose of these items for free. St. Vinnies collected over 16 mattresses, Habitat for Humanity had a truck full of used paint for the PaintCare program, and Florence Lion’s Club collected over 40 pairs of glasses plus hearing aids. Five large grocery bags of non-perishable food were collected for Florence Food Share. Graham Ross, founder of Inspire Culinary Academy, and one of his students, Ian, happily provided delicious baked goods for sale at the event.

The Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC), the City of Florence staff, and several Master Recyclers provided tremendous volunteer support.The impact of properly disposing of items like mattresses and tires is sometimes overlooked, so events like this help to educate the public as well as

reduce our local pollution footprint. Thank you, Florence, for being part of the solution!

Britte Kirsch EMAC Chair

What’s happening? Who are we to say who someone can love, can be, wants to become or believes in?

It’s OK to disagree with someone but it is not OK to disparage and/ or direct hateful comments at them. It’s not OK to assault someone because they’re different than you. How would you feel if someone disagreed with how you look, what you believe in, what you want to become or who you choose to love and then be talked down to, spewed hate at or beat you down? It is absolutely disgusting to hate someone because of the color of their skin, who they choose to love, who they choose to become or how they choose to live their lives. What has become of common decency? How about showing some compassion instead of heartlessness or love instead of hate! Society tries to put labels on everyone and tries to tell us who we should be. It’s time to stop labeling others especially because of skin color, religious believe, sexual orientation or just because someone doesn’t look like you. Everyone deserves respect. Words do matter and actions do have consequences. We are all one. We all bleed red. CHOOSE PEACE!

Mitchell Sloan Florence

Circles in the sand to return

event for a nominal fee.

The annual ‘Circles in the Sand’ beach labyrinth event with the labyrinth master, Denny Dyke, is ready for your visit!

This free event happens Oct. 18 and 19 and features no only the popular labyrinth but also a variety of beach art with natural materials. Beach, ocean, sand and wind are all in the mix this year with Denny’s famous crew leading the way but also local beach artist and kite pilots to thrill and amaze the crowds!

Parking at the event is quite limited so your hosts have arranged a free shuttle service from the Grocery Warehouse parking lot bus stop, right behind McDonalds golden arches on Highway 101

The shuttle will make a continuous loop from the bus stop ( park your car and ride the shuttle to the event ) then pick you up at the event and return you to the Grocery Warehouse parking lot!

year.

No parking hassles at the event, just a short drive from town to the event and back thanks to Shorewood Senior Living. You an also catch the Link-Lane shuttle from Eugene, Veneta and Yachats to and from this

There will be related merchandise available at Driftwood Shores so you can take home some memorabilia of this unique event.

Remember... this event is always free to the public but donations are sincerely appreciated to cover expenses of the participants and keep this event going year after

Parking can be very difficult in this area so take advantage of the free shuttle that will pick up and drop off people at the Grocery Outlet bus stop behind McDonalds from 3 to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

For more information contact Sand Master Park, 541 997-6006 or Driftwood Shores.

Six Oregon Tribes blast Kotek’s office and Outof-State

Tribes

As tribal tensions rise, the governor is caught in the middle.

By NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project

In the wake of Gov. Tina Kotek’s decision earlier this month not to veto a controversial $45 million appropriation to Willamette Falls Trust to buy land at the falls in West Linn, six Oregon tribes have collectively expressed widespread dissatisfaction to the governor about her office’s handling of tribal relations— and the involvement of tribes from outside of Oregon.

In 2023, her first year in office, Kotek established a 15-member task force on tribal consultation and named a tribal affairs director, Shana McConville Radford, formerly the deputy executive director of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

“Communication and transparency are cornerstone to the state’s relationship with Oregon’s nine sovereign Tribes,” Kotek said in November 2023

But in a letter dated Aug. 7, the day Kotek announced she wouldn’t veto the trust’s appropriation, six of Oregon’s nine federal tribes registered their discontent over relations with the governor’s’s office.

“We appreciate that you created the position of Director of Tribal Affairs,” says the letter, signed by the chairs of the Burns Paiute Tribe; the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw; the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde; the Coquille Indian Tribe; the Klamath Tribes; and, the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.

“After nearly two years, the role, responsibilities, and expectations for this position remain unclear. It has provided a designated contact for your office,

but also added a layer between tribal leaders and the governor, with whom we are peers. We need confidence that our positions and priorities are accurately and fully represented to you, and yours to us, which is not currently the case.”

Two recent flashpoints have highlighted tribal tensions and spilled over to relations with the governor’s office. The first was a 2023 agreement with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife that allowed the expansion of the Grand Ronde’s hunting, fishing and gathering rights in Western Oregon.

But at an emotional ODFW commission meeting July 11, after hearing opposition from the Warm Springs, Nez Perce, Umatilla and Yakama tribes, the commission agreed to reconsider the expansion.

Then, in the final week of the legislative session, lawmakers approved the $45 million appropriation for Willamette Falls Trust, whose board includes the Umatilla and Warm Springs tribes from Oregon, the Nez Perce from Idaho, and the Yakama from Washington.

The trust, led by former Gov. Kate Brown, plans to use the money to buy 60 acres on the west bank of Willamette Falls. The closure of West Linn Paper in 2024 after more than a century of operations created an opportunity to open the falls to the public, which the trust plans to do. (Kotek flirted briefly with vetoing the appropriation—which the Cow Creek and Grand Ronde tribes had encouraged her to do—but she decided against it.)

In their Aug. 7 letter, the six Oregon tribes stated their objections to the involvement of outof-state tribes in Oregon tribal issues.

“We firmly believe that in our relationship with the state of Oregon, Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes should be the only Tribes consulted regarding state and local policies,” the letter says. “We recognize and honor the treaty rights established through the federal government’s relationship, but that is a different relationship from the one between the Oregon tribes and the state of Oregon.” Of course, the tribes of the Northwest lived in what are now Idaho, Oregon and Washington long before state boundaries existed, but the tribes now domiciled in Oregon want Kotek to observe current boundaries.

“Citizens from other states are not eligible to vote in Oregon,” the six Oregon tribes wrote. “This same principle should be applied to Tribal consultation. To address this issue, we would like to discuss an executive order to all state agencies, boards, and commissions, clarifying your expectations for consultation with our nine Tribes.”

The letter comes at a time when all of Oregon’s tribes are awaiting an imminent decision from U.S. District Court Judge Michael Simon on a separate dispute between Portland General Electric and the Grand Ronde over that tribe’s ceremonial fishing platform at Willamette Falls (other tribes oppose the Grand Ronde’s position there) and as Kotek prepares to re-launch her re-election campaign.

The governor has previously touted her administration’s work with tribal partners, including in her 2025 state of the state address, when she said, “visiting all of Oregon’s counties and all nine Tribal nations in my first two years has profoundly informed my appreciation and understanding of how critical local partnerships are to Oregon’s resilience and Oregon’s ability to solve problems.”

Now, the Aug. 7 letter shows two-thirds of those tribes are unhappy with her. Kotek’s spokeswoman on tribal issues, Roxy Mayer, says the governor is still reviewing the letter and does not yet have a response.

Meet Backstreet’s September stars, Siobhan Holden and Robin Siewell

Siewell with

Show Flora & Fauna. Their reception is September 13 , from 3 to 5 p.m. as part of the 2 nd Saturday Gallery Tour.

At nine years old, Siobhan Holden first touched clay—making art with her hands, rather than using tools, captured her heart. As a teenager, she taught children to throw on the pottery wheel and convinced her high school teachers to work with clay in her painting class.

When COVID hit, Siobhan attended Santa Barbara Community College with a studio arts major in Ceramics. COVID shutdown sent Siobhan to online drawing. Finishing her Associate Arts degree, she purchased a kiln and wheel to continue on her own.

Drawing skills added to her success with clay as she free-hands her designs.

Inspired by Oregon’s rainforests and lush greenery, she embarked on a quest to find the right green glaze. She joined a glaze-chemistry class. With that scientific knowledge, she makes lasting, durable, leadfree, food-safe glazes.

Siobhan’s diverse creations range from small earrings, snails, and mushrooms to larger vases, and mugs. Her large-scale sculptures, whales and octopuses, may use over 18 pounds of clay covering an armature of paper and tape, then covered with

slabs of clay. Look for her art at Backstreet Gallery and Rose and Crown Apothecary in Florence and High Tide Art in Bandon.

Perhaps, Robin Siewell’s multimedia art talents stem from the varied locales and activities filling her life.

As a small-town, outdoor girl, she rode horses at an early age. As a teen, she competed at fairs and rodeos.

After marrying, both quit their jobs and moved to Nenana, Alaska, where they lived in a log cabin and experienced temperatures of 50 below along with the moose, bears, foxes, and other wildlife. They enjoyed colorful northern lights and the beauty that is uniquely Alaska. They hunted, fished, cross-country skied, rode three-wheelers, and snow machines.

They moved back to Florence after her twins were born. She dabbled in oil painting, and she added watercolors to her list of talents. With children grown, many ideas materialized. “I

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

Peace Harbor Volunteers

DOING GOOD . GIVING BACK

can’t wait to get them on canvases.”

“I feel blessed that I can paint in both mediums, sometimes combining the two techniques. My art or colors are not enhanced, digitally altered, nor used any AI.”

Robin has mastered a wide range of techniques, creating small gems or larger works executed in watercolor or oil. Her latest unique multi-layered wood pieces are hand-painted. These include beautiful cutting boards, laser-cut jewelry, and wall pieces.

The September 13 reception is a great way to come together, meet the artists, and enjoy the show with guitarist/singer Denny Weaver, wine, and tasty treats. The event will take place at Backstreet Gallery, 1421 Bay Street, Florence, Oregon, open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Backstreet is accepting applications for membership or the Community Challenge, Go Figure! Find applications at the Gallery or online www.backstreetgallery.org.

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

Community Band to Give Free Labor Day Concerts

The Pacific Coast Wind Ensemble will be giving two free concerts over the Labor Day weekend -- the first will be held in the Community Presbyterian Church, 3996 US-101 in Florence, on Saturday, August 30; and the second on Labor Day itself, Monday, September 1, at the Yachats Commons. Both will be free and begin at 2 PM.

The theme of the concerts will be a focus on the familiar: well-known works from Broadway musicals, classical

Recycle

From Page A1

Siuslaw Middle School, with sponsorship from County Transfer & Recycling (CTR) and Lane County. St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, Florence Habitat for Humanity, and the Florence-Siuslaw Lions Club also accepted items for reuse during the event, with Inspire Culinary Academy running a bake sale and EMAC accepting food donations for Florence Food Share.

“This annual collection event has been instrumental in allowing the community to safely and properly dispose of items that usually cost a fee at the transfer station, thanks to a fee waiver from Lane County and transportation provided by County Transfer & Recycling,” said EMAC Chair Britte Kirsch. “But adding new partners like Habitat for Humanity, St. Vinnies, the Lions Club, and Florence Food Share creates more opportunities for residents to easily reduce, reuse, and recycle in our community. We hope to continue this successful collaboration in the future.”

During the event, 92 vehicles came through the well-organized line, which was managed by 10 volunteers from EMAC, City of Florence

repertoire, movies, tv, the circus, and the great American song book. Composers include Sousa, Copland, John Williams, John Kander and Meredith Wilson, among others. All pieces are intend to raise spirits on the last holiday of Summer.

The Band is composed of about 40 volunteer musicians from the central Oregon coast and mid-Willamette Valley, and is led by Dr. Ernest (Ernie) Hills, former Professor of Music at California State

University, Sacramento. Rehearsals are held weekly on Monday evenings, alternating between Siuslaw High School in Florence and the Waldport Community Center, and are open to all wind and percussion players. For further information, please visit http://pcwindensemble. org or contact Eric Bigler at ebigler@peak.org

Band performs at 2023 Waldport Beachcombers. Phot credit from PCWE Photos

Local champions for recycling have been spreading the news about recent changes to the recycling system. They include (from left to right) Britte Kirsch with the Environmental Management Advisory Committee, Brian Enochian with County Transfer & Recycling, and Crystal Moore with Circular Action Alliance.

Staff, and Master Recyclers of Florence. CTR had three employees help out, along with personnel from the participating organizations. The City of Florence receives a fee waiver from Lane County on selected items that would ordinarily go through Lane County Waste Management. The Black

and White Recycling

Event began as a way for the City to apply this system benefit fee to Florence residents. For the last hour of the event, disposal opened up to the greater community using donations from Les Schwab Tire Center and St. Vincent de Paul.

In total, CTR delivered 172 items to Lane County

Waste Management, saving the community

$1,198 00: • Propane tanks – 14 • Tires with rims – 66 • Tires without rims – 76 • Refrigerated appliances – 16

The Florence-Siuslaw Lions Club collected 45 pairs of glasses and two hearing aids. Learn more about their vision-related work and where to

donate further at https://eclubhouse.org/sites/ florence_siuslaw/. St. Vincent de Paul collected 16 mattresses, two box springs, two working refrigerators, and one working washer dryer.

“This is a great opportunity to keep mattresses out of our landfill and a better option than just dumping them somewhere,” Kirsch said. “St. Vinnie’s is a great partner on a new free mattress collection program in Oregon, https:// byebyemattress.com/ oregon/.”

By the end of the day, there was also a truckload of used paint for Habitat for Humanity’s PaintCare Program. This is an extended producer responsibility program in Oregon, https://www. paintcare.org/states/ oregon/.

According to Habitat ReStore, “We accept house paint (interior and exterior) as well as primers, stains, sealers, and clear coatings such as shellac and varnish. To be accepted, products must be in their original containers of no larger than 5 gallons in size, must have the original manufacturer’s printed label on the container, and must be covered with a secured lid. We cannot accept open, unlabeled or leaking cans.” Learn more at https://www.florencehabitat.org/.

Volunteers also collected six grocery bags full of non-perishable foods for Florence Food Share. Learn more about services and acceptable food donations at https:// florencefoodshare.org/.

To round out the event, EMAC and CTR provided

information on the Recycling Modernization Act (RMA). This landmark law reshapes how the state manages packaging, paper, and food service ware, making recycling easier, more consistent, and more trustworthy for everyone. People can read more about this at https://www. ci.florence.or.us/planning/ city-florence-recycling-resources and https://www. countytransferandrecycling.com/.

One statewide partner in the RMA is Circular Action Alliance, a nonprofit group working hand-in-hand with local governments, recycling providers, and community partners on the updated recycling system.

Crystal Moore, Recycling Center Development Lead with Circular Action Alliance, attended the Black and White event as an on-looker to understand how collection programs work in Florence. EMAC and the City of Florence will look further into possible future pop-up events to accept hard to recycle items.

At the August 18 meeting of the Florence City Council, Community Development Director Wendy FarleyCampbell gave a preliminary report on the Black and White Recycling Event.

“A big thank you to County Transfer & Recycling, our EMAC volunteers, St. Vincent DePaul, Habitat for Humanity, Lions Club, and Inspire for their collaborative effort,” she said. “This is the first time we’ve had anything with this many organizations involved.”

elm Park

From Page A1

together, support each

and build a

community,” said Holly Mar-Conte, Lane County child care sector strategist. In a statement, Charleen Strauch, executive director, said that HSOLC “is thrilled to be a part of this collaborative journey as a key partner in the co-location project providing preschool/day care and affordable housing in Florence. We are deeply honored to contribute to such a vital initiative that addresses the holistic needs of families in the Florence community.”

THE COST

The center’s total cost will be approximately $4 1 million. BuildUp Oregon (BUO) has committed $1 43 million in grant and loan funding for the center. BUO is co-sponsored by the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department and the Department of Early Learning and Care to encourage the co-location of child care

From Page A1

The MSRP for just the truck is almost $82 000 but the City can get it through Johnston Motors for $73 000 with a $28 000 dump box, bringing the total cost to $101 206 During the 2025-27 biennium budget process, $125 000 was budgeted in the Wastewater Capital Outlay fund for the purchase of 3-4 yard dump truck in the first year of the biennium,” according to staff reports. “The proposal submitted by Johnston Motors for a new 2026 F550 4x4 extended cab 3-4 yard dump truck for a total cost of $101,206 61 is $23 793 39 less than the budgeted amount. Once the order for the new 2026 F550 4x4 extended cab 3-4 yard dump truck is placed,

with affordable housing. Business Oregon has provided a $2 million grant from its Child Care Infrastructure Fund. The City of Florence has agreed to reduce the purchase price on the site by $53,250 once the center is operational. John Singleton of Pivot Architecture is the project architect. The general contractor will be selected through competitive bidding.

Community support is needed to raise an additional $300,000 to help complete the center’s funding. PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center has contributed $25,000 and has pledged additional funds to the project. Onward Eugene has donated $7 500 and its child care sector strategist, Holly Mar-Conte, has provided valuable advice and assistance. The center needs to raise another $205,000 from large businesses and $70 000 from individuals and small businesses. With that community support, the center will qualify for an additional $250 000 in grants from private foundations. Tax-deductible donations

delivery will take twelve to sixteen weeks.”

The council approved the purchase after little discussion.

FURA A recent vacancy on the Florence Urban Renewal Agency (FURA) left the council to choose between Library Board Alternate Tracey Miller or soliciting and interviewing candidates.

According to staff reports, the FURA Board is composed of nine members, consisting of the Mayor, two City Council members, one nominated by the Lane County Board of Commissioners, and five members from the public at large, as outlined in Florence City Code Title 2, Chapter 5, Section 5 Section 5(D) further specifies that special consideration shall be given to the potential

FEATURED PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

for the center’s construction can be made to Our Coastal Village, Inc.

“PeaceHealth knows that its health care workforce and patient care depend on having access to reliable child care in our community,” Morrill said. The need for high-quality child care continues to be identified as a need in PeaceHealth’s community health assessments. “Healthy habits start early,” said Jason Hawkins, chief administrative officer at PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center. “Programs like Elm Park can set children up for a lifetime of wellness by introducing these practices at a young age.”

Siuslaw Childcare

Friends (SCF) is a 501(c) (3) organization formed in January 2025 to promote and enhance child care and early learning opportunities in the Siuslaw region.

Sandy Craft, a Siuslaw Vision Team member, is SCF’s president; Tia Leonard-Durant is treasurer, and Camille Griswold is secretary. Other board members include Kim Erickson, Connie Ford, Adrian

appointment of elected members of the governing bodies of the Western Lane Ambulance District, the Port of Siuslaw, Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue, and/or the Siuslaw Library District.

While the City Charter allows the mayor to make appointments, it also requires that notice be given and other councilors allowed to take part in considerations.

“FURA Director Susy Lacer submitted her resignation to vacate her seat as the Siuslaw Public Library Board’s representative on FURA effective Sept. 1,” said staff reports.”The Library Board’s alternate, Tracey Miller, has expressed interest in

Pollut, and Chelsie Reeves.

Siuslaw Vision and the Siuslaw Child Care Working Team have provided start-up support for SCF and continue to work closely to support the center. SCF will be the steward of the two community provider classrooms and will engage and assist the community providers who serve those classrooms. SCF will begin community outreach efforts shortly to raise awareness of its role in supporting local child care and the actions it will take. Sandy Craft, SCF’s president, became a Florence resident in 2021 As an early childhood advocate/specialist, she “quickly noticed the lack of quality child care and early learning options for families in the area.”

THE NEED

Craft said the center “will positively impact this need for families of all income levels, children who are typically developing, children with special needs, and the workforce of the Florence community.” Elm Park Apartments, the residential portion of

serving in this capacity.”

Councilors were supportive and comfortable with the recommendation, and voted unanimously to appoint Tracey Miller to the FURA board.

LAUGHING CRAB

On the consent calendar, the council considered the liquor license and change of ownership for the Laughing Crab restaurant in Old Town Florence.

According to staff reports, the request for a change of ownership of the liquor license for a full on-premise commercial liquor license to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) for The Laughing Crab, LLC, doing business as The

the Elm Park PUD, will consist of 32 residential units on a 1 10-acre site. Our Coastal Village, Inc. (OCV), a nonprofit affordable housing 2 developer, is developing Elm Park Apartments. Units will be available to households earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income. OCV completed its 24-unit Oak Manor Apartments project at 3944 Oak St. in 2024

Morrill called co-locating the center with affordable housing “a huge challenge on many levels.” He “thankfully acknowledges amazing contributions” by the design professionals, public and private financial partners, the Florence Community Development Department, the Planning Commission, and the City Council in bringing these projects to fruition.

The total cost of the apartments is $15 million. Oregon Housing and Community Services has provided an $11 83 million 30-year, zero-interest LIFT loan. Banner Bank has provided a $2 million construction loan and a $1 85 million 35-year, low-interest permanent loan through the Oregon

Laughing Crab, 1341 Bay Street. OLCC allows the City Council the opportunity to review the liquor license before making a recommendation of approval.

“The business has been checked and approved by the Florence Police Department for noise and/ or altercations,” said staff reports. “The Planning

Affordable Housing Tax Credit program. OCV has committed $1 25 million of its resources to the project.

The City of Florence will reduce the site purchase price by $199 500 once the apartments are in service. Construction of the apartments is planned to begin on June 16 and be completed in July 2026 BDA Architecture and Planning, Mike Magee and Leanne Love, are project architects. Meili Construction Company is the general contractor. The City of Florence is constructing streets and utilities in the Northwest Ninth Street neighborhood for future residential development, including Elm Park PUD, using a $1 9 million state legislative appropriation from early 2024 For more information about the Elm Park Early Learning Center or Elm Park Apartments, contact Layne Morrill at 602-4326291 or klaynemorrill@ gmail.com. For more information about child care in the Siuslaw region, contact Siuslaw Vision at childcare@siuslawvision.org or 541-590-2425

Department has checked the place of business for zoning or code violations. Both departments have signed recommending approval.”

The contract for the city prosecutor in Florence Municipal Court, and previous council meeting minutes approval and were approved as part of the consent agenda.

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SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

2025 Siuslaw soccer season ready for kick off

Will LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The Siuslaw girls soccer team is gearing up for its fourth season, and each year the program has seen improvement. In the 2025 season, Head Coach Amy Tregoning is hoping to keep that upward trajectory going.

After notching a program-best six wins last season, including three in 3A/2A/1A Special

District 3, Tregoning is keen to kick on this year.

I’m very optimistic about our season this year. This will be our 4th season, and so far, each year has been better than the previous year,” Tregoning said. “We’ve grown a lot, and with the skill I am seeing this year, I know it’s going to continue.”

There are 25 registered players at the time of writing, which means

the Vikings will have capacity for both a JV and a Varsity team this year. In the lead-up to the fall season, the players have been able to get some good reps through summer league. Though it’s voluntary, Tregoning said there’s been “a good turn-out.”

They’ve also been able to play some preseason games against inland teams, providing good preparation for both the

opponents and the conditions that lie ahead.

“We were even able to set some friendly matches up during the summer with teams in the Eugene area,” Tregoning said. “Playing in the heat has been a good experience for our new players because all of our games are played inland, and that has been a struggle in the past.”

With it being Tregoning’s fourth

season at the helm, she knows the drill. In the world of high school sports, change is constant, as each season sees the seniors depart and the first-year class join the squad. While she still has the same fundamentals, the way Tregoning passes the knowledge depends on the group she’s working with.

Chris Johnson to keep the Vikings running at least three more years

Bronco kick up dust in Florence

Siuslaw NEWS STAFF

The entire north end of the parking lot at Three Rivers Casino was covered in a variety of Ford Broncos last weekend. The annual Northwest Bronco Roundup brings the little four by fours from all

over the region, leaving many Florence motorists likely wondering why they’ve been seeing so many Broncos in town. However, it’s more than just a car show because it also benefits the Florence Food

By DON HUNT Part 2 O f 2

Vikings Coach Chris Johnson says He’s committed to at least three more years as the Vikings’ head cross country and track coach, but talked recently about his formulas for winning in many other sports.

For the Vikings, the training extends into the offseason. Or, as Johnson calls it, the preseason.

The Siuslaw harriers train 11 months per year, generally running about six days a week for 70 to 90 minutes, with segments of running fast mixed in with a moderate pace.

“If kids want to get better, they really need to run year-round,” said Johnson. “Running is long-term aerobic development.”

Johnson has practiced what he preaches. An avid runner himself, he logged at least four miles

every day for 17 years and five days – that’s more than 6,200 days without a rest – before a hip injury sidelined him in 2002

Johnson isn’t opposed to his athletes competing in other sports.

Sam Ulrich, who won state titles in the 800 and 4x400 relay at the state track meet in 2023, played basketball. Others have mixed in wrestling between the cross country and track seasons.

And come fall, at least half of his harriers will compete in soccer at the same time.

“When you’re running and jumping in basketball or competing in wrestling, you only need a couple weeks of training with us to find your groove,” said Johnson.

One of Johnson’s most trusted assistant coaches has been his wife, Amy Flora, who won five state titles at Myrtle Point High in the early 1990s

and also claimed two national Junior Olympic titles. Flora will step down as a paid assistant in the fall to devote full attention to her job as the Siuslaw Elementary School principal, but will continue to serve as a volunteer coach when time allows.

Siuslaw’s dramatic charge to the state track championship in May was Johnson’s greatest thrill as a coach. The Vikings were the favorite going into the meet, but Burns, which had won the Class 3A state football title in the fall, overachieved and came within a whisker of finishing on top. The championship hinged on the winner of the final event – the 4x400 relay. Siuslaw entered the race with the fastest time in the state, nearly two seconds faster than the fastest time

Florence artist Exhibiting in Eugene.

A group of international artists have come together to create a World class art installation and community art event to share in select cities around the globe. Artists from eight countries, the 14 members of International Online Art Collective (IOAC) are bringing their art to Eugene. Their project, “Chain Reaction”, opens in September at The Hybrid Gallery. The collaborative art installation will be on display at The Hybrid Gallery Sept. 4-Oct. 12,2025. A free-to-the-public opening reception with

Johnson

From Page B1

Burns had posted. But there was a catch. The Vikings were relegated to the “B” heat while Burns ran in the “A” heat. Seedings at state are determined by how teams fare at their district meets. The Vikings were missing

refreshments and a chance to meet the Oregon-based artists included in this show will be held Sept. 12, 5-8p.m.. Public art events leading up to and during the show will be held in conjunction with the exhibition.

The Hybrid will host Chain Reaction at their gallery at 941W. 3rd Ave., Eugene, OR. An opening reception will be held Sept 12, 5-8p.m.. Regular Hours are Wed.-Thurs. 12-5p.m., Fri.Sun. 9-4p.m.. Closed Mon. & Tues. (Additional hours during special events.)

In addition to displaying the 100 artworks, IOAC brings art to Eugene through their “Art for All” community events. Leading up to the show, art workshops

one of their top runners, Raymundo Brito Xilot, at district due to an illness. A slower time ensued, which prevented Siuslaw from directly competing against Burns and the state’s other fastest relay squads.

Theoretically, that put the Vikings at a disadvantage. But it didn’t matter. With Brito Xilot clocking a credible opening-leg split of 51 1 seconds

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

will be offered at The Hybrid by IOAC members Susan Detroy, (“Fun with Tea-Bag Paper Art”, Aug. 23, 11a.m.-1p.m.) and Florence artists Greta Olivas, (“Creativity Through Play”, Aug. 24, 11a.m.-1p.m..) See The Hybrid’s Website: thehybrideugene.com/events to register.

Chain Reaction is a global art collaboration by International Online Art Collective (IOAC) reflecting 14 artists’ ability to inspire each other through art.

The project, documented invideo and print, includes a magazine, behind-the-scenes video and artist’s narratives explaining the inspiration for each link in the chain.

To find out more about IOAC

and Wilson (50 2), Kale Jensen (50 3) and Wesley Nicholls (50 5) running even faster, Siuslaw blazed to a state-meet record time of 3:22 43

Burns also bested the previous state-meet record with a time of 3:22 64 to finish second in the relay, but it wasn’t enough.

Siuslaw finished the meet with 89 points, one more than Burns.

“That was the most nervous I’ve ever been in my life,” said Wilson, noting that his 400 split was a

S occer

From Page B1

“Every year, we have a new team with new strengths and growth areas. My fundamentals haven’t changed, but how I approach them does with each new year,” Tregoning said. One thing that remains constant is Tregoning’s conviction that the lessons her athletes derive from their time as soccer players should extend

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) A Faith Community committed to peace since 1652. Silent Worship Sundays 11am, fellowship at Noon. Call for locations 541-515-8191.

and this project, please visit the collective’s website: https://ioac. art/chain-reaction

The International Online Art Collective is a diverse group of artists from around the world founded in Spring 2020. Artists participating in the Chain Reaction art project are: Adela Trifan (Spain); Barbara Pastorino (Italy); Caroline Karp (USA); Cheryl Barill (USA); Christy de Witt (Netherlands); Gerda Smith (South Africa); Greta Olivas (USA); Guillermo Bublik (USA): Inna Malovstoker (USA); Karin McCombe Jones (New Zealand); MorrisonPolkinghorne (Australia); Ruth Christensen (UK); Susan Detroy (USA); Wendy Bale (USA).

personal best. Wilson had nearly four hours between events that day – the 1 500 and the relay – and so he did what he often does at meets: he crawled into his sleeping bag at the top of the stadium and took a nap. He also often napped prior to practice, curling up underneath the grandstands at Hans Petersen Memorial Field.

“I got teased a lot about doing that but it’s my go-to,” he said. “Naps re-energize me.”

beyond the pitch. She wants her players to learn the importance of hard work and teamwork both on and off the field.

Tregoning wants players to build essential skills like problem-solving and working together during their time as a Viking athlete. It’s about way more than just developing on-field success: it’s about personal growth as people.

“I see my role not just as a coach but as a mentor. It’s a balance between skills and development on the field, and development of the whole person on and off the field,” Tregoning said. “My goal is to prepare these players for success beyond soccer. Teaching them the value of hard work, perseverance, while keeping

Wilson wasn’t dozing on the bus ride back to Florence, and neither was anyone else, even though the state meet didn’t end until 10:40 p.m. on May 31

“It was a wild ride home,” said Wilson. “There was a lot of roughhousing going on, and we got yelled at. But when you win state, you’ve got to celebrate.”

If history is a guide, Johnson will be celebrating more state titles in the future.

a positive mindset.” This season will begin on Aug. 28 with a jamboree competition hosted at Marshfield High School. They won’t have long to get into regular season form either. After one non-league game on Sept. 2, the Vikings will dive right into the league schedule on Sept. 9 against Central Linn. Whatever the future holds, Tregoning is eager to get the ball rolling and see what the Vikings have in store. “I’m excited to see what the team is capable of this year. They’ve put a lot of work in over the summer and are excited about this season,” Tregoning said. “As coaches, we are sharing that excitement with them.”

Jason Holland, Backstreet’s Community Challenge Juror for Go Figure

With the use of a movable mannequin, entrants to Go Figure! are encouraged to create their own mysterious, quirky, beautiful, humorous, and unique interpretations of the theme, Go Figure! For this community-inspired event, the entry deadline for the Go Figure! Show is September 29, with

art submitted on October 2. The show opens on Tuesday, October 7, and juried on October 9

Backstreet Gallery is honored to announce the respected art executive, Jason Holland, as Juror for Go Figure, the Annual Community Challenge.

Jason Holland is the executive director of the

Oregon Coast Council for the Arts (OCCA) and was appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by the Governor. “Being appointed by Governor Kotek, as an Oregon Arts Commissioner, brings with it a profound responsibility,” says Holland, “to nurture the creative soul of Oregon,

Can You Sponsor the Screams?

C.R.O.W., is seeking sponsors for it’s upcoming 1920’s crumbling theatre themed Haunted maze, entitled “Abandoned.” The non-profit youth theatre organization is hoping to raise $5 500 in venue rental fees, with $1500 already secured from this goal.

With acting and volunteer opportunities for both older youth and adults, the maze provides an outstanding community event that is safe, fun, and exciting for all ages. There will be a less scary hour from 5-6 PM on October 25th for “little children and big chickens” who may want to experience the maze with no jump scares. New this year, is a “fast pass” ticket option, that shoots victims to the front of the line.

The maze is held at the Florence Events Center, with indoor restrooms, lobby boutique, photo ops, and tasty concessions. Over 1100 guests managed to make it through alive last year, with many traveling from Corvallis, Astoria, Eugene/Springfield, Coos Bay, Portland, and even as far away as California and

From Page B1

Share.

“At the Bronco event on Saturday, they gathered food donations for us,” said FoodShare Director Colin Morgan.”We received over 4 800 pounds of food from the drive all to feed low-income families

Washington.

Since 2011, C.R.O.W. has been dedicated to making the arts accessible to all, through a variety of high-caliber enrichment events, classes, camps, workshops, and programs. Last year, C.R.O.W. received a letter of gratitude from a special needs care facility in Corvallis, thanking the organization for being the only ADA accessibly haunted attraction in the region. The group was so impressed, and plans to return with residents, year after year.

Funds from the maze will assist with the production of C.R.O.W.’s 2026 Spring mainstage youth musical at the Florence Events Center (Seussical) as well as the Holly Jolly Follies and camps, dance classes, and workshops for all ages.

“Sponsoring our haunted maze literally screams that you are an active supporter of a well-rounded, arts-enriched education for our local kids,” says Heard. To sponsor with check or credit card, volunteer, or act: http://www.crowkids.com/ haunted-maze

in the Siuslaw region. last year we served over 4 700 unique individuals in our area, food drives such as these are critical to our ongoing operations we are truly grateful for the support.”

The Bronco was first produced in 1966 and enjoyed a 30 year run before the name was discontinued. Ford brought the Bronco back in 2021 in a retro-throwback

body size and style, with many cues from the first generation models.

to help Oregonians weave the vibrant tapestry of our cultural heritage throughout this beautiful state, and to advocate tirelessly for the transformative power of the arts in all of our communities.”

His extensive personal background and his promotion of the arts in Oregon make him an ideal juror.

While living in Florida and later in Tokyo, his father was an executive with the Disney Corporation. The Disney exposure, plus the experience of playing an instrument as a child, awakened his interest in the arts. Sparked by

experiencing the cartoon, Peter and the Wolf, Holland says, “The oboe was my gateway into the arts.”

Holland worked for over 20 years in nonprofit arts organizations. He understands and promotes the importance of youth’s exposure and involvement in the arts.

His leadership in the innovation, funding, operation, organization, strategy, and promotion of the arts has made Oregon a leader in the advancement of the arts.

In viewing a piece of visual art Holland says, “I look first for how it makes me feel—what

emotion it stirs before I even try to understand it. I’ve learned that the most powerful works are the ones that reach past technique and hit us in the gut (or the heart!). I also look for a unique point of view.”

Mark your calendars for the Backstreet Gallery reception on October 11, 3-5 p.m. You’ll meet the artists, enjoy tasty treats and live entertainment by Sunny Sundstrom, while you see great original art from the community. The event will take place at Backstreet Gallery, 1421 Bay Street, Florence, Oregon. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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311 ANNOUNCEMENTS

SIUSLAW CLASS OF ‘75

Will celebrate their 50th reunion on Saturday, Sept. 6th at Honeyman Park. Contact Colleen at iammrsc@

gmail.com for more info.

402 BUSINESSES FOR SALE

UNIT MINI STORAGE with large repair shop on Highway 101 in Florence 541-9991011 702 GARAGE SALES MANY TREASURES FROM SEVERAL HOMES. 3500 watt generator, welder and other tools. Antiques, paintings, jewelry, eagles, dragons, Oriental, Western and seaside collectibles. 2x and 3x clothing, shoes and lots of miscellaneous. Friday August 29th, 8-4 Saturday, August 30th 8-3. 1930 32nd Street (corner of Spruce & 32nd) half off Saturday 12-3

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with SVCS, a sample of which is attached to the RFP (the “Agreement”). Proposers must evaluate the Agreement prior to submitting a proposal, and will be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions contained therein unless a protest of terms is timely received and approved by SVCS pursuant to the procedure set out in the RFP. Objections to the terms and conditions made after the awarding of the contract may not be considered, and may constitute grounds for subsequent denial of the contract. Proposals must be submitted via email in accordance with the terms of the RFP. Proposals will be accepted until 2:00 PM PT on Friday, September 12, 2025 (the “Due Date and Time”). Proposals received after the Due Date and Time will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the proposer(s). Proposals will be opened at 2:30 PM PT on the Due Date at 524 Laurel Street, Florence, Oregon 97439. SVCS

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ADJUSTMENTS: If your advertisement appears incorrectly, notify us immediately. We will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion. Such responsibility is limited to correct insertion of advertisement. No information on the classified pages will be released prior to publication. Ads are in Area Code (541) unless otherwise indicated in ad.

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