Clouds part for Old Town holiday
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
By all forecasts, Saturday, Dec. 7 wasn’t looking good for the Winter on the Waterfront in Florence. Rain and wind started in the morning and remained constant through the day. Forecasts were predicting it would continue, but let up, possibly after dark.
The Florence Event Center was alive with activity all weekend, from CROW’s Holly Jolly Follies and the FRAA Arts Festival, to the Empty Bowls fundraiser for Florence Food Share. Executive Director Colin Morgan explained that the event raises money for Florence Food Share’s ongoing
operations. He explained that local artisans created and donated bowls, art and other pottery items.
“We then sell these items to make sure
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
The Florence City Council reallocated leftover COVID 19 money to a project designed to keep a section of riverbank from sliding and causing damage to US Coast Guard property and nearby homes.
City Manager Erin Reynolds explained that the affected area is at the end of a City stormwater line that runs between
than a month ago.
“I’m here to propose naming Siuslaw Middle School basketball court after Ethan Dougherty, a dedicated educator, coach, father, friend, and husband who has made a significant impact on our school
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
Seen from the Siuslaw River Bridge, the tree-lighting in Old Town Florence attracted a large crowd. Tony Reed photos
An area just behind the US Coast Guard Siuslaw River dock has been quickly eroding and slipping during winter storms. Tony Reed photo.
Local art, bowls and pottery were donated and sold to support the ongoing operations of Florence Food Share. Tony Reed photo
Florence Chamber announces 2024 Photo Contest winner
THE ASSIGNMENT:
Take a photo that shows the fun and frivolity of Florence and presents the area as Oregon’s Coastal Playground
THE MOMENT:
“This is the best day ever, Grandma!” So Grandma captured the moment of sheer joy and triumph on her iPhone.
THE RESULT: Grandma won the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual photo contest.
“Grandma” is Robyn Wargo of Roseburg whose granddaughter, 3-year-old Eowyn of Eugene, was having the time of her life flying a kite for the first time.
Wargo was on a family vacation with her son, daughter-in-law, her son’s mother-in-law, and her three grandchildren in July of this year at Driftwood Shores Resort Hotel in Florence.
“Robyn captured exactly that what we hoped for with the photo of her granddaughter running with abandon along the beach while flying a kite,” said Bettina
Hannigan, president/CEO of the Chamber.
“We were out early in the morning on Heceta Beach having a good time together,” said Wargo about the day. “Eowyn’s dad had brought kites. The kids had never flown kites. Eowyn was so proud of herself. It wasn’t an attempt to win a contest, it was just a grandma trying to get a memorable shot of her granddaughter.
I’m as surprised as I am honored to win.”
“Each year we look for the best amateur or professional photos of the fun, frolic, famous attractions, and iconic scenery from within 20 miles of this place we call ‘Oregon’s Coastal Playground’ that show Florence as a fun and memorable vacation destination,” said Hannigan.
“I was looking up information online about Florence and came across the call for entries. I asked my son if I could enter the picture of Eowyn and he said ‘Go for it,’” recalled Wargo.
Each year, the winner collects a $250 cash prize and has their photo featured in the Chamber’s directory and visitor resource guide, other printed marketing pieces, on their website, and in social media.
“We had scores of amazing photos again this year,” said Hannigan. “There were some dramatic photos of surfers, ATV riders, gorgeous panoramas, and interesting people with their pets in and around Florence. The judges were a panel of more than a dozen Chamber and travel and tourism industry leaders.”
“So next time someone tells you to ‘go fly a kite,’ think of Florence— Oregon’s Coastal Playground—and get the photo. It could be your ‘best day ever,’ and worth $250,” she added.
ETHAN DOUGHERTY
Born on December 13th, 1972, in Vancouver, BC, to Greg and Terri Dougherty, Ethan was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, teacher, coach and friend who touched countless lives with his kindness and big heart. Growing up in San Jose, California, Ethan’s passion for learning began early. After graduating from Bellarmine College Preparatory in 1991, he pursued his educational journey, earning a bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Barbara in 1995 and a master’s in education from Southern Oregon University in 1997. A fateful trip with his father introduced him to the breathtaking Oregon Coast, a place that would become his home and the backdrop to his life’s most meaningful work. Ethan found his calling in the Siuslaw School District in Florence, Oregon, where he dedicated an incredible 28 years to education. More than just a teacher, he was a coach, a mentor, a friend, and a source of endless inspiration to his students. Known for his epic Chewbacca call at Outdoor School and his talent for creating memorable nicknames, Ethan made learning an adventure. Whether teaching 6th-grade or later focusing on 7th-grade math, he approached education with a unique blend of intelligence, humor, and genuine care. It was at Outdoor School that Ethan’s personal love story began. He met Kady in 2001,
and after reconnecting in 2012, they fell in love. The greatest joy of his life arrived in 2014 with the birth of his daughter, Olive Patricia. She was truly the light of his world, and the bond between father and daughter was something magical to behold. Ethan’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. He was a die-hard Golden State Warriors fan, loved fantasy football, enjoyed solving puzzles with his mom, taking walks with his dad, playing golf with friends and family and playing games with Olive. His love for math extended beyond the classroom, manifesting in hilarious math parody songs and an unbeatable enthusiasm for shows like Jeopardy, Good Mythical Morning & NPR’s Sunday Puzzle.
He is survived by his beloved wife Kady Sneddon, their cherished daughter Olive, his parents Terri and Greg, his sister Erin, brother-inlaw Ben, cousins Lauren and husband Paul, Matt, Kristin and husband Ryan, his adoring nieces and nephews Owen, Calvin, Ivy, Duke, Miley, and Henry along with his in-laws Bob & Debbie Sneddon and his sisterin-law Hope and partner Ryan. Ethan was more than just the smartest man we knew—he was a beacon of kindness, creativity, and pure joy. His legacy lives on in the thousands of lives he positively impacted, the laughter he shared, and the love he spread so generously. Though he may no longer be with us physically, his spirit continues to inspire and remind us to approach life with love, compassion and a hearty dose of humor.
A scholarship fund is being established in Ethan’s name. An account is open at Oregon Pacific Bank for donations to that cause.
TERRI SAINDON
Terri was born July 15 1960, in San Diego, CA and grew up in southern California where she met her husband, Greg Saindon. They moved to Teton Valley, Idaho in 1978. There she loved to play sports, hunt and fish and enjoyed the beautiful outdoors. Greg and Terri married in 1986 and moved to Florence, Oregon with their children. Florence has been their home ever since. They worked hard to build their home and successful business, North Fork Drywall, together. Terri was admired by many as being a woman in the construction industry.
She spent the last 38 years in Florence where she worked hard, played softball, enjoyed gardening, hunting and fishing, picking mushrooms and camping. Terri’s true love was spending time with her family and friends.
Terri is survived by her husband Greg, daughter Siarra, son Ryan and his wife Jamey, son Noel and his wife Rachel, niece Heather and her husband Joe, grandchildren Cedric, Alexandra, Judiah, Gage, Drew, Samuel, Tanner, Madelyn, Taylor, Cameron, Isaac, great-grandchildren Abigail and Isabelle, sisters Donna, Carolyn, Karen and her many nieces and nephews. Terri was a beautiful soul who loved deeply. She will forever be loved and missed by her family, friends, and by all who knew her. A memorial service will be held Friday, January 3rd at 4pm at Three Rivers Casino events room.
RENEW YOUR BUSINESS LICENSE
CITY OF FLORENCE
City of Florence Business License Renewals are now open! In order to maintain compliance with Florence City Code, renewals must be completed no later than January 2nd, 2025
Don’t wait and risk letting your license expire! Please make sure that all of your business information is up to date in order to have your license be approved as soon as possible.
For a list of FAQ’s, information about pricing, business classes, or for a refresher on the application process, please refer to our Business License page located on our city website, https:// www.ci.florence.or.us/ administrative-services/ business-licenses. A walk-through of the renewal process can be found at: https://www.ci.florence.or.us/administrative-services/application-portalrenewal-information. For more personalized questions about your license, please send us a message via License Registrar while viewing your license at: https://licenseregistrar. com/bizlic/bizlic.html.
PIGS! PIGS LIVE HERE!
My niece told me a story about when her children were young, they would strew toys all over the house, including in front of the outside door. When their father came home from work, he would yell, “pigs, pigs live here!” and the kids would come running to greet their dad but also to clean up their mess.
I am reminded of this story every time my husband and I go out to pick up trash on our adopted street, Rhododendron Drive – pigs live here!
We fill two buckets full of trash weekly – from beer and soda cans (last week’s ‘beer of the week’ was Miller Lite) to large tools. We’ve found construction debris, clothes, car parts and car keys, a lot of fastfood wrappers and cups, to name a few things we regularly find. Paper and plastic debris are in abundance, mostly from unsecured trash headed for the transfer station. Cigarette butts and filters are plentiful – we
call them “tiny toxic waste” for their ability to leach chemicals into the soil and water.
We’ve removed hazards to vehicles from the middle of the road from tree branches to car parts to prevent accidents.
This is not very rewarding work –what we pick up one day is back out there the next. It is very frustrating but we keep doing it because we take pride in our community
Our ask here is for people who drive this road to make sure that their trash and yard cuttings are secured when driving to the transfer station, keep a trash bag in their vehicle for food wrappers, cans, etc., and put cigarette butts in a fireproof container. And not only when you drive Rhododendron but wherever you go. By taking just a little extra care, you will make Florence a cleaner, better place to live and visit and afford two 80+ year old people less back pain! Thank you.
FYI: You can adopt a street through the Florence Department of Public Works on Kingwood Street. We applaud all others who have adopted a street or park and commend all of you who are not litterers!
Pat Allen Florence
I write in reference to the recent letter from Michael Charlton calling for Oregon to oppose anything President Trump tries to do to make America a thriving country. I find this attitude very sad. I believe we should all be trying our best to come together and support our mutual prosperity. Oregon may be controlled by the Democratic party, but only 9 out if 36 counties voted in support of Democrat candidates. That says a great deal about what Oregonians actually want from their government.
Lori Straley Florence
Siuslaw News
VFW Auxiliary Florence 3232 is excited to announce the kickoff of the VFW Auxiliary’s annual Illustrating America art contest. Local students in grades K through 8 can share how they view our world through their drawings and paintings while competing for national awards. Students must submit an original two-dimensional piece of artwork. coloring sheets, digital art and photography are not accepted.
The entry must have been completed during the current school year and the application must include a parent or guardian’s signature. Students begin by competing at the local VFW auxiliary level. The first place winner from each auxiliary advances to the Department (State) competition. The contest consists of three grade divisions kindergarten through 2nd, 3rd through 5th, and 6th through 8th grades. The Department
(State) first place winner in each division will be forwarded to the VFW Auxiliary National headquarters. There are awards for first, second and third place in each division. All state winning entries are judged at National headquarters in Kansas City Missouri in July and will be displayed at the VFW auxiliary National convention, scheduled to take place August 9th through 14 2025 in Columbus Ohio. Winners will be
notified via the email address provided on the winners entry form. The contrast rewards the artistic abilities of elementary and middle/ Junior High School students. student entries must be submitted to VFW auxiliary, Florence 3232 by March 31. Interested youth, parents and Guardians and teachers should contact Sue Miller at 541-9913841 or at suzqmiller@ gmail.com for more information
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor should contain at most 300 words. The Siuslaw News reserves the right to edit, condense, or reject any letter to the editor. Letters published in The Siuslaw News will also be published online. Letters to the editor and guest columns must include your first and last name, city or town or residence, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters endorsing candidates or campaign issues must be received no later than ten days before an election. Letters written by candidates will not be accepted. Letters to the editor should be the author’s work. We strongly discourage and will attempt to weed out form letters, letters mailed to other news outlets, or letters written and edited by a third party, including but not limited to political parties. We try to restrict the printing of one submission per author per month. We do not publish anonymous letters, personal attacks, personal complaints, poetry, consumer complaints, or letters written in bad taste. To send a letter: Mail: Editor, Siuslaw News, 4969 HWY.
Drive Merry, Bright, and Sober this Holiday Season
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
City Of Florence
This holiday season, the Florence Police Department and other local Law Enforcement agencies will be participating in extra DUII Enforcement during the Christmas/New Year’s Holiday weekends between December 11 to January 1. The Florence Police Department has received additional Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) enforcement grant funds to help seek out
impaired drivers and to deter people from driving while they are impaired.
The Florence Police Department, along with Law Enforcement agencies throughout Oregon and the rest of the United States, are continually making efforts to get impaired drivers off the road. These funds are made available to the City of Florence from Oregon Impact, who administers DUII grant funding in Oregon. For more information or questions, contact the Florence Police Department at (541) 9973515 or visit ci.florence. or.us/police.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A graphic mentioned in the Dec. 4 article by Fire Chief Michael Schick and Bob Horney was left out, due to lack of space. The full graphic can be found online at wlfea. org Then go to prevention and select Fire Prevention Newsletter from the options.
With great sadness, Oceanside Veterinary Hospital will be closing due to retirement.
Thank you again from all of us at Oceanside.
We are saddened to have to say goodbye. We thank you all for your patronage over the years. Please stop by the office before December 31st, 2024 to pick up your pet records.
1739 22nd St, Florence (541) 997-9300 | oceansidevethosp.com
Christmas Services
the doors stay open at Florence Food Share,” he said. “This has been going on for 28 years now and it’s a pretty big staple here in the local community.”
While it’s one of the Food Share’s most consistent fundraisers, it’s not the only one. A “Game On” event and the annual “Crab Crack” fundraisers will happen after the holidays.
WHO AND HOW IT HELPS
When asked, Morgan said the majority of Food Share clients are low-income.
“Demographically, the majority of people we see are families,” he said. “Right behind that are a lot of folks who are in the senior population who are limited income where that income doesn’t get them through the month.” He said it’s common to see families where both parents are working but still can’t keep up with rising grocery costs and local rent and other bills.
“We offer a shopping style pantry experience,” he said, noting that the program isn’t like the government assistance food boxes from before 1999. “Not only do we
Slope
From Page A1
the Coast Guard property and private property. The resulting erosion is affecting properties on both sides of the easement and the Coast Guard will handle repairs on its side.
Reynolds called it a very specific, singular action, saying the Obligation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) was a specific part of COVID stimulus funding. According to her report, the City received $2 032 million from the fund in 2022 and allocated $1 48 million for various City services. The remaining $554,000 was held for a stormwater project in Old Town but has accrued interest to currently total $600 000
Meanwhile, it has been discovered that a section of the bluffs next to the US Coast guard station in Florence has been eroding and slipping into the river during heavy rains.
Reynolds asked the Council to reallocate the funds from an Old Town Project which was nothing more than an idea, since the slope project is much more urgent.
The preferred solution is to create a secant pile wall into the ground next to the bank. Reynolds explained that the original length estimate for the wall was about 40 feet, but circumstances require that to be expanded to about 90 feet.
“Which kinda means the project budget has doubled in size,” she said, noting that the ice storm in early 2024 accelerated the erosion at the site, caused sliding and exposed the formerly underground stormwater pipe. Reynolds said it was found that Federal Emergency Management Agency money could not be used for the project.
Congresswoman Val Hoyle was in Florence Aug. 26 to discuss funding for a City project that will temporarily hold back
have USDA goods similar to those items, but we also have goods we have saved from grocery stores.” Morgan explained that such items may have passed the dates recommended for sale but not the “use by” dates. The facility has freezers and refrigerators on site to keep perishable foods.
Food Share also accepts donations from individuals and groups.
“Folks get to go through the pantry like a grocery store,” he said, “and based on their household size, select certain items and pack what they will be able to use and what will be fulfilling to them.”
Asked if people who have no means to carry or store food can use the pantry, Morgan said
the slipping area of the river bank until a more permanent fix can be identified.
Hoyle said the project fits the requirements for use of an $800 000 funding request made by the City for the project.
Reynolds said it’s not guaranteed, but has been submitted by Hoyle as a priority project.
She also noted that the project could give the City as much as 10 years to engineer a more permanent solution.
The City’s project meets the requirements for use of the $600,000 and the city would need to inform sources of how the funding will be used by Dec. 31. Funding can be spent over the next two years.
Councilor Robert Carp noted that the estimated total cost for the project will come in around $1 5 million and other funding sources are being investigated. Reynolds said the city will need to continue pursuing funding.
The council unanimously approved the obligation of SLFRF ARPA funds for the project.
absolutely.
“We have an an entire section devoted to folks to get them the food they can use in a way that they can use it, so they don’t go hungry on the streets,” he said. He explained that other consumable items, such as toothpaste, soap and shampoo can be provided, but for clothing, sleeping bags and gear, clients are referred to other agencies, including Siuslaw Outreach Services and others.
Socks are one item that essentially become consumable items, since they are used and discarded in a short amount of time. He said Food Share will provide them when available. Food Share will also accept donations of socks and gloves.
Clients are asked to fill
out a basic application and information from that paperwork is later used by Food Share when it comes to demonstrating need for grants and other assistance. Client data is not shared with any other source, Morgan stressed. Located behind Grocery Outlet off Highway 101 in Florence, the Food Share remains open to help people having a hard time balancing the costs of living and food needs.
“Unfortunately, this year, there has been a substantial amount of need,” Morgan said, “and everyone is feeling the crunch at the grocery store. We’re doing our best to be here, but we are extremely grateful for anything folks can help with because the need has been significant this year.”
Peace Harbor Volunteers
Do you part and volunteer today to help support these organizations in our community.
Want to make a difference in the community and make new friends? Do you have a few hours a month? If so, we would love to have you join the Volunteer Program at PEACEHEALTH PEACE HARBOR MEDICAL CENTER. Opportunities are available both in and out of the Hospital setting. All training provided. Applications are available at the Lobby Volunteer Desk or the Gift Shop located in the Hospital at 400 9th Street, Florence, OR 97439.
Us Too Florence
Saving men one PSA test at a time. “Someone to talk to...who understands!” 541-997-6626 • 47maribob38@gmail.com www.ustooflorence.org
This was the case until about 3 : 30 p.m., but in just a matter of minutes, the sun came out, the wind let up and the rain stopped.
Before the rain let up, a tent at the Laurel/
Bay streets intersection hosted activities by Habitat for Humanity, The Helping Hands Coalition, The Elks Lodge # 1858 , First Step of Florence and adoptable pet photos by Oregon Coast humane Society.
As the rain departed, a full rainbow stretched over downtown Florence,
HAPPY PAW-LIDAYS FROM OREGON COAST HUMANE SOCIETY!
Thanks to YOU, we’ve had another great year. Your donations support our shelter dogs and cats while also helping us help our neighbors keep their pets. Whether it’s spay/neuter vouchers, pet food, or emergency medical care - you make this PAWS-sible.
Please consider a year-end gift to your hometown animal shelter so that we can continue helping the animals. Oregon Coast Humane Society is a private non-profit organization. We aren’t tied to any national groups and don’t receive a portion of their funds. Everything we do is made PAWS-sible by our community and for our community.
Thanks for your continued support for the last 30 years! You can donate online, in PURRSon, or by mail. We’re grateful for your support!
welcoming the night’s festivities. A covered hayride trailer that had been cruising empty in the rain suddenly had a line of folks waiting to get onboard as more people arrived from all directions. At the Laurel and Maple Street intersection, Santa arrived in a golf cart with police lights to the delight of many kids waiting there. Meanwhile, almost every kid held a balloon with a tiny LED light inside that lit up when spun or shaken. Many discovered that if shaken hard enough, the LED would puncture the balloon, resulting in sporadic pops throughout the evening.
Police Chief John Pitcher said only a few vehicles signed in for the lighted vehicle parade, the low number likely due to the threat of rain. One of the entries was a rider of a classic scooter, who stopped to greet kids and hand out candy canes along Bay Street,
For the previous couple weeks, Public Works and City of Florence personnel had been taking down the fall holiday lights and decor to put up the Christmas lights. It was all worth the wait when Mayor Rob Ward counted down to zero, lighting up the entire area and the City’s Christmas tree. Kids delighted at navigating the maze of lights and paths while others stood under the falling “snow,” emanating from a box over the display.
Fog rolled in as the event wrapped up, but lights will remain on throughout the month for those who missed all the fun Dec. 7
and our community,” said Middle School Principal Andy Marohl. “Mr. Dougherty started his career at Siuslaw Middle School after graduating from Southern Oregon University. He came here in 1997, where he originally taught self-contained 6th grade classrooms. Mr Dougherty’s career spanned over years, where he was an integral part of the school and, of course, our community. He continued to serve, moving to the new building when it opened on Oak Street in 2000. During his tenure, he was a fundamental part of the basketball program, becoming one of the first coaches to lead a team in the new building… Beyond his coaching career, Mr. Dougherty was a mentor to countless students, including myself.. as an educator. His coaching style extended far beyond teaching basketball fundamentals. He focused on building strong teams, fostering team culture,
school culture, and instilled in his players the importance of hard work, dedication and sportsmanship. Mr. Dougherty’s commitment to student academic and behavioral success was equally impressive. He worked closely with teachers to make sure that his athletes were meeting both academic and behavior expectations. I believe naming the basketball court after Mr. Dougherty would be a fitting tribute to his legacy- It would honor his contributions to our school and inspire future generations and student athletes.”
Marohhl requested that a committee be formed to examine the proposal and consider naming it the Ethan Dougherty Court.
Board Chair Brian Lacouture declined the request to form a committee, saying it was not procedurally needed for naming a part of a larger facility.
As for naming the gym, Lacouture said he is “all for it,” and other directors present agreed, voting unanimously to do so. Lacouture noted that the name will be painted
somewhere inside the gym, possibly in more than one location.
Director Kady Sneddon, wife of Mr. Dougherty, was absent from the meeting.
DFTBA
Earlier in the meeting, Lacouture acknowledged Mr. Dougherty’s time and contributions to the district, closing with an acronym he authored and espoused, DFTBA.
“Everyday, Mr. Dougherty would
write DFTBA on his whiteboard - Don’t Forget To Be Awesome. This was Mr. Dougherty’s motto and a reminder to students to always try your hardest and to be your best self,” according to a post by Marohl on the district website. “To honor Ethan’s memory and support future students, we are working to establish a scholarship fund. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a Siuslaw graduate who
embodies Ethan’s spirit of kindness, compassion, and love for life.”
Donations can be made to Oregon Pacific Bank or Siuslaw Middle School, made out to Ethan Dougherty fund. Proceeds from the sale of T-shirts, featuring Mr Dougherty’s own writing, will go to the fund.
It’s hoped that the first scholarship can be offered in Spring 2026 and will be managed by Western Lane Community Foundation.
SPORTS & LIFESTYLE
Siuslaw bounces back for big win
Will LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
Both of Siuslaw’s varsity basketball teams traveled to Reedsport to take on the Braves on Dec. 10, and both the boys and the girls came away from the night as winners, each bouncing back from a loss in the previous game. Both squads came into their games against Reedsport High School after taking losses at the Coquille
Winterlake Showcase on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7. Though the victories were part of the preseason schedule, there’s never a bad time to grab a win and get the confidence up.
After losing to Taft in the season opener, the boys team rebounded for a win in Coquille against Myrtle Point. The Dec. 6 game was a tournament faceoff, and
See BIG WIN, Page B4
The 15th Annual Peace Hike: A Commemoration of Resilience and Remembrance
On New Year’s Day, Yachats, Oregon will host the 15th Annual Peace Hike, a meaningful event that honors the legacy of the indigenous peoples who endured immense suffering under government-sponsored genocidal policies during the 19th century. The Peace Hike commemorates the tragic history of the Alsea Subagency (1860–1875), highlighting the story of Amanda, a blind Native American (Coos) woman who was forcibly separated from her daughter and marched barefoot with other captives over 80 miles of rugged terrain to the Alsea Subagency prison camp in Yachats in 1864. This annual gathering serves as a solemn remembrance of those who lost their lives and a
celebration of the resilience of their descendants, many of whom participate in the event each year.
A Time for Reflection and Education The Peace Hike invites participants to reflect on the atrocities faced by the Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw, and Alsea Peoples and to deepen their understanding of this painful history. To support learning and reflection, participants are encouraged to:
• Watch the video “The Genocide of the Alsea Subagency”, narrated by Patricia Whereat Phillips, Miluk Coos, and the late Chief Donald Slyter of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=N6D-wkqXGy0
• Explore the detailed Amanda’s Trail Curriculum, created by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians: https://ctsi.nsn.us/ sb-13-curriculum/#7th-grade.
Schedule of Events The day will be filled with ceremonies, reflections, and guided trail walks designed to honor the past and bring the community together:
• 9:30 a.m. – The Yachats Community Drum will be available at the Yachats Commons (441 Hwy 101 N), and drumming will begin.
• 10 a.m. – A fire will be lit at the Commons, marking the start of the opening ceremony, which will include storytelling by Tribal members and the recounting of Amanda’s story.
• 10:30 a.m. – Trail walks
commence. Participants may choose from several trail options indicated on a map designed by the Yachats Trails Committee and available at the Commons.
Those hiking to the Amanda Gathering Area (2 2 miles south of the Commons) will have parking options available for those not wishing to hike the full distance.
Volunteers at the Commons will provide instructions.
A ceremonial fire will be lit both at the Amanda Gathering Area and the Commons, where participants can place cedar sprigs.
• 12 p.m. – A special ceremony, led by Tribal members, will take place at the Amanda Gathering Area.
• 1 p.m. – Both the Amanda Gathering Area and the Commons will
hold closing ceremonies. Participants are invited to place their cedar sprigs in the ceremonial fires, which will then be respectfully closed.
Water, energy bars, and cookies generously prepared by the Yachats Ladies Club will be available at both the Commons and the Amanda Gathering Area.
Additional Highlights
• All participants will receive a beautifully crafted Peace Hike button designed by artist Morgan Gaines, Quuiich (Lower Umpqua), of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians.
• Committee members will be on hand at the Yachats Commons to provide guidance, maps, and answer any questions.
Leave the river otters be
The City of Florence has observed a family of river otters making themselves at home on the old fishing dock just past the gazebo in Old Town Park. The family were seen by several members of Public Works as they decorated the parks for the holidays.The otter family that we have living in town are River Otters, which are different than Sea Otters. Sea Otters, as their name implies, live just off the coast in the kelp forest. They hold hands when
they nap so they don’t float away from each other and keep their favorite rock in a pouch. River Otters prefer clean quiet rivers with an ample food supply and travel in family packs of mom and pups.
Be sure to keep a look out for these playful river otters the next time you our out on Bay Street in Old Town. Please remember that these are wild animals and need their space. Do not attempt to approach or throw food out to the dock.
Junior forward Asher Borgnino attacks the basket against Reedsport on Dec. 10.
At Reedsport, the action was fast up to the buzzer. Tony Reed photos
Community Briefs
Free Rides before the Holiday
The City of Florence is sponsoring a free fare day on the Rhody Express on Monday, December 23, 2024. Hop on the Rhody Express, which runs every 30 minutes, to get to shopping in Historic Old Town Florence, uptown to Bi-Mart and Fred Meyer, and all around Florence. For that day only, the fare is waived.
The Rhody Express is the public transportation provider in Florence and is a function of the Lane Transit District (LTD). Learn more about the Florence routes, including maps and fare prices, at https://www.ltd.org/ system-map/route_901/.
The City thanks the Rhody Express for this community service for our residents.
When the River turns Brown FROM THE CITY OF FLORENCE NEWSLETTER
What is that brown colored foam on the river or on the beach? Why is the surf so … brown? Every year, visitors and locals alike have been puzzled by the appearance of the surf or the brown foam on the Siuslaw River. Some people guessed an oil spill, others guessed raw sewage or forms of water pollution. The truth is quite opposite: The Florence area is experiencing a major diatom bloom. Diatom blooms are very healthy and give filter feeders, such as razor clams, a banquet to feast upon. Diatoms are single-celled plants (phytoplankton) that are found in both fresh and salt water. They are
ANCHOR OF HOPE CHURCH
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 CHURCH OF THE SIUSLAW 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 for locations.
RESURRECTION LUTHERAN CHURCH, L.C.M.S.
Worship Services 10 am • Bible Study 9:00 am Pastor Steve Waterman 85294 Hwy. 101 S. – 997-8038
Facebook.com/ResurrectionLutheranChurchFlorence
one of the most important food sources in the ocean.
During the winter, spring, and early summer, diatoms rapidly multiply in the surf zone. Diatoms absorb large amounts of nitrates and phosphates that are delivered to the ocean by coastal rivers, contributing to their population explosions. Everything in the ocean feeds on diatoms and other plankton, either directly or indirectly. Even the great baleen whales, like the Gray Whale,
filter plankton and diatoms as part of their diet. When the surf zone become too saturated with diatoms, they wash ashore or in our case the ‘brown foam’ also floats up the Siuslaw River during the incoming tide. When they do wash ashore, it is in such great quantities that they resemble an oil spill or other forms of water pollution. This was the case on December 18, 2013 when the river was as smooth as glass. Visitors were concerned with the large amounts of brown foam floating on the river; however, the brown foam was a result of 10–12-foot breaking swells at the mouth of the Siuslaw. The breaking swell’s (the river bar was closed to marine traffic that morning) action creates the foam at the mouth of the river which travels up the river with the incoming tide. Had the visitors ventured to the North Jetty, they would have seen the phenomenon in action.
FLORENCE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Jordan Blumer of McMinnville, Oregon, has won the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce’s logo design contest for its annual Rhododendron Festival. She wins a $250 cash prize, bragging rights, and a place in Rhododendron Festival’s long and storied history.
After announcing the theme for the 2025 Florence Rhododendron Festival in October as “Rhodies on the River,” submitted by Milana Peerson of Florence, the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce opened a call for entries for a logo for the event. A “rhody” or “rhodies” are the local nickname for the prevalent rhododendron flower that thrives in the region. The 119th edition of the family friendly Oregon institution takes place May 15 to 18, 2025
“After careful deliberation, we are pleased to announce that Jordan’s design has been selected by a panel of Chamber members as the official logo for the 2025 Rhododendron Festival,” said Bettina Hannigan, chamber president and CEO. “Jordan’s artwork features our famous bridge and rhododendrons, and perfectly captures this year’s festival theme.
Blumer, a professional graphic designer at JordanBlumer.com and with
Saffire, a ticketing company in the Portland area that specializes in websites for fairs and festivals, saw the call for submissions on Facebook. She researched the festival and the Florence area, though she and her family visit the area frequently for camping vacations.
“I started sketching the bridge and river from photos and learned in my research about the history of the art deco design of the bridge. I wanted to pay homage to those things while adding a bit of an abstract ‘flowy’ element to the font to represent the river and the flowers along its banks,” Blumer explained.
“This year’s logo is bold, it’s beautiful, and it really captures that ‘rollin’ on the river’ vibe that pairs perfectly with this year’s ‘Rhodies on the River’ theme,” added Hannigan.
“Generations of families have enjoyed the annual Florence Rhododendron Festival by attending, enjoying the Davis Shows carnival,
exhibiting their rhododendrons, showing off their classic cars and motorcycles, being in the parades, and shopping and dining in Old Town and all around town.”
The Florence Rhododendron Festival is Oregon’s second-oldest floral festival, bested by only a year by the Portland Rose Festival, and sees thousands of visitors from around the state and across the country. Hannigan said the festival, with its carnival, Rhododendron Court, parades, classic car cruise, vendor fair, and flower show serves as the unofficial kickoff to the summer tourist season—a season that adds more than $260 million to the local economy and employs about half of the area’s roughly 5000 workers.
The festival opens the Saturday prior to the third weekend in May with the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, the King of the Coast, and their royal court at the Florence Events Center; followed by Thursday’s opening of the Davis Shows Carnival at the Port of Siuslaw property in Old Town. Find more information at Events@FlorenceChamber. com or call 541-997-3128
FLORENCE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2nd & Ivy - 541-997-2961 - Non-Denominational
Sunday Worship Services ~ 10:00am www.florenceuuf.com
www.puppro.wixite.com/rlcflorence
ST. ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL Church Welcomes You Worship Sun. 10am Wed 11am 2135 19th St. 541-997-6600 standssecretary19@gmail.com Labyrinth & Garden daily 8am-5pm “Be
By JULIA SHUMWAY Oregon Capital Chronicle
EDITOR’S NOTE:
The Capital Chronicle is running an end-of-year fundraising campaign, with a $10,000 goal, to help us continue our first-class coverage next year. A lot is at stake, and there’s a long legislative session in 2025. We’re completely dependent on donor dollars, and they’re tax deductible. Please contribute to us if you can.
On Wednesday, the day after a federal judge in Oregon and a state judge in Washington blocked a merger between two supermarket giants, Albertsons canceled the $24 6 billion merger agreement and sued Kroger.
The grocery chain, which owns 24 Albertsons locations and 97 Safeway stores in Oregon, sued Kroger in the Delaware Court of Chancery, alleging the larger grocer didn’t do enough to secure regulatory approval for its 2022 agreement to buy Albertsons.
The Federal Trade Commission, joined by seven states including Oregon and the District of Columbia, sued to block the merger in U.S. District Court in Oregon earlier this year, and a federal judge in Portland temporarily halted the merger Tuesday. A state judge in Washington state also blocked the merger
from proceeding there. Both judges agreed with federal regulators and state attorneys general that the merger would lead to reduced competition and harm both customers and grocery workers — customers with higher prices and lower-quality goods and workers with lower pay.
The complaint Albertsons filed in the Delaware court isn’t yet public, but the company said in a press release that Kroger “willfully breached” the merger agreement by ignoring feedback from regulators, refusing to divest assets needed for antitrust approval or find stronger buyers for divested assets and failing to cooperate with Albertsons.
Kroger owns 51 Fred Meyer stores in Oregon, as well as four QFC locations in Portland. Before the merger fell apart, Kroger and Albertsons had agreed to sell 579 stores across the country, including dozens in Oregon, in an attempt to mollify regulators concerned about a monopoly.
Tom Moriarty, Albertsons’ general counsel and chief policy officer, said in a statement that the merger would have helped consumers but that Kroger acted in its own financial self-interest instead.
“Kroger’s self-serving conduct, taken at the expense of Albertsons and the agreed
transaction, has harmed Albertsons’ shareholders, associates and consumers,” Moriarty said. “We are disappointed that the opportunity to realize the significant benefits of the merger has been lost on account of Kroger’s willfully deficient approach to securing regulatory clearance.”
Albertsons is seeking an immediate $600 million termination fee and billions more to reimburse the company for the loss of the money Kroger agreed to pay and decreases in shareholder value, the statement said.
Kroger called Albertsons’ claims “baseless” and said that Albertsons actually
repeatedly breached their agreement and interfered through the merger process.
“This is clearly an attempt to deflect responsibility following Kroger’s written notification of Albertsons’ multiple breaches of the agreement, and to seek payment of the merger’s break fee, to which they are not entitled,” the statement said.
“Kroger looks forward to responding to these baseless claims in court. We went to extraordinary lengths to uphold the merger agreement throughout the entirety of the regulatory process and the facts will make that abundantly clear.”
Oregon leaders including
Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum and U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden welcomed news of the merger’s failure Tuesday.
“This is great news for grocery shoppers in Oregon who would have faced higher prices at Kroger and
Albertsons if this ill-conceived consolidation had gone through,” Wyden said. “I’m glad the court has shelved this monster deal because in addition to raising grocery prices for shoppers already tiptoeing on an economic tightrope, it would have made it that much harder for Oregonians to find a pharmacy and for workers at both supermarket chains to seek fairer wages and better working conditions.”
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/12/11/ albertsons-sues-kroger-afteroregon-washington-judgesblock-24-6-billion-merger/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@ oregoncapitalchronicle.com.
The Kroger Co. corporate headquarters is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Scott Olson / Getty Images
the Vikings were ruthless on the court, beating the Bobcats 65-37. The next day, Siuslaw dropped its second game of the season, although only by the narrowest margins. They played Elmira, who pulled out a tight 47-43 victory to end Taft’s tournament weekend.
Despite the loss, the Tigers entered their subsequent match against Reedsport with their eyes on redemption. From the jump, the Tigers asserted control, ending the first quarter up nine points, 20-11. Taft would extend the lead in the second and third quarters, completely stifling the Braves in the third. The Tigers held Reedsport to just 6 points in the third and saw the game out in the fourth, winning 71-44
With plenty of time before the league starts in January, the Tigers will have plenty of time to keep experimenting with their game plans
and sets before the pressure ramps up in league play.
For the girls, the Reedsport win marked the first win the team has gotten since they beat Mapleton in a non-league game on Dec. 30 2022. Though Siuslaw started the preseason 0-3, the Vikings maintained belief and execution, beating Reedsport 47-18. The win put Siuslaw at 1-3 through the first four games and elevated the Vikings to being ranked 28th of the 47 teams in OSAA’s 3A rankings.
Though it is early in the season, it was no doubt a relief to get that first win out of the way and instill a sense of belief in a team that had not tasted victory in a long time. There’s plenty of ramp-up time before league play begins in Jan. 17, but there may be another milestone to achieve this season.
According to records of seasons on MaxPreps.com, a high school sports-specific website, the last time the Vikings won a girls league basketball game stretches all the way back to the
2018-2019 season. On Feb. 12, 2019, Siuslaw beat Elmira 56-51 in the final
league game of the Vikings season. The win at Reedsport was
a big step for a team that is showing signs of growth this season; now it’s time to see
if the momentum carries the Vikings to heights they haven’t reached in years.
Tony Reed photos
BEAT THE PICKERS PANEL FOOTBALL
1. GEOGRAPHY: What is the northernmost capital city in the world?
2. U.S. STATES: Which state is the driest?
3. MOVIES: In the movie "It's a Wonderful Life," what is the name of the angel who saves George Bailey?
4. LITERATURE: Which American novelist also wrote under the pen name Edgar Box?
5. SCIENCE: What is the process called in which plants lose water through their leaves?
6. HISTORY: What was the name of the international group that was supposed to keep the peace after World War I?
7. TELEVISION: Which TV sitcom featured a holiday episode titled "Abed's Uncontrollable Christmas"?
8. ASTRONOMY: What is it called when a group of stars forms a pattern?
9. MUSIC: What is the top-selling holiday song of all time?
10. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: How many years are in a millennium? © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
Answers 1. Reykjavik, Iceland.
Nevada, with an average of 10 -inch
of rain a year.
Clarence Odbody.
Gore Vidal.
Transpiration.
The League of Nations.
“Community.” 8. Constellation.
“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby.
1,000.
OLIVE
By Emi Burdge
Classified
Florence Cleaning LLC - Licensed, Bonded, & Insured, Provides Consistent, High Quality Residential Cleaning. Call today at 541-9995033 or Book at www. florencecleaning.com.
Attention Crafters! Spring Fair! March 2830 at Douglas County Fairgrounds, Our 48th year! Booths available for quality crafts. For info send SASE to Spring Fair 2025 PO Box 22 Dillard OR 97432 or innerspacefamily@gmail.com Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855792-9764. For Sale by Owner 60 Unit Mini Storage Business Call 541-999-1011 for details
Crew
Bichon-Shih Tsu Mix Ready end of December, will deliver. $500 - 541.643.0400
KADY L. SNEDDON, at PO Box 12, Florence, Oregon 97439, within four (4) months from December 18, 2024, the date of publication, or such claims may be barred. Any person whose rights may be affected by the proceeding may obtain additional information from the court records, the Personal Representative, or the attorney for the Personal Representative. Laurel L. Ferguson Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1153 327 Laurel St Florence, OR 97439 Publication Date: December 18, 2024
SLN24-3048
Private office for rent $250/mo. Ideal for counseling. Please contact St. Andrews Church 541-997-6600
SLN24-3047 PUBLIC NOTICE CLAIMS against the Estate of ETHAN GREGORY DOUGHERTY, of Westlake, Oregon, Lane County Circuit Court Case No. 24PB10785, are required to be presented, with proper vouchers, to the Personal Representative,
PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to the State of Oregon Self Service Storage Facility Act, Heceta Self Storage will exercise our lien and Foreclose and Auction the contents of storage unit A121, a 10x10 sized unit, rented by Jack W. Smith, on Saturday, January 4th, 2024, at 10 AM. Foreclosure is due to lack of payment of past due rents and late charges. The amount due currently is $560.00. The live auction will take place at Heceta Self Storage, 87632 North Highway 101, Florence, Oregon 97439. Cash bidders only, no reserve, $100 security cleaning deposit required. Published Wednesday, December 18th and December 25th, 2024. Inquiries to 541-997-9702
SAGITTARIUS -Nov 23/Dec 21
As you prepare for the colder temperatures, holistic arts, acupuncture, herbs, and therapies might be on your mind, Sagittarius. You don’t want to be sick this go-around.
CAPRICORN -Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you will try to meet the demands of your need for information this week. Chances are you’ll be reading the newspaper and news outlets as much as you can.
AQUARIUS -Jan 21/Feb 18
You cannot gain traction right now, Aquarius. Perhaps you haven’t met the right people yet? Keep your eyes and ears open for new opportunities.
PISCES -Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, if a career change has been on your mind, the new year might be a chance to get those gears moving in the right direction.
GEMINI -May 22/Jun 21
Your attendance at a wedding or another special event could have your thoughts moving in a romantic direction, Gemini. Maybe you’re thinking of taking your relationship to another level?
Aries, a special person in your life deserves all of your attention. Romance might be on your mind, and you’ll look forward to all of the time you can spend together.
TAURUS -Apr 21/May 21
You may feel artistically inspired this week, Taurus. Explore projects like home improvements or crafting. There are many things to try.
VIRGO -Aug 24/Sept 22
CANCER -Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, forge ahead in your efforts if you aspire to learn a new skill or take on a different project. This might involve meeting new and interesting people. Expand your social network.
LEO -Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, it is important to put others first this week, particularly your spouse or romantic partner. You don’t want any hurt feelings circulating right now.
An unexpected visitor might come your way in the next few days, Virgo. This could require overhauling your schedule and even space in your home to make room
LIBRA -Sept 23/Oct 23
Family and friends will have a difficult time changing your mind once you have taken a stance, Libra. You have dug in your heels on this topic.
SCORPIO -Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, new work assignments or additional business may complicate matters in the days ahead. That can be great during times of year when spending can get out of control.
