Army Band delights at FEC
included vocal performances by SPC Kimberly Nagorska and SFC Duane Reno. The 40-person band is based in
Ore., and tours every
ing Florence the band performed in Coos Bay and Bend. Sponsors of the performance were West Coast Real
Services, Lofy Construction, LLC, Coastal Home Services, The Florence Events Center and Siuslaw News.
Florence, A Coast Guard City
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
Mayor Rob Ward recognized US Coast Guard Station Siuslaw River by proclaiming that Aug. 4th 2024 will be Florence Coast Guard City Day.
According to the proclamation, on August 4th 2024, the United States Coast Guard will celebrate its 234th birthday.
“The Coast Guard has been protecting our waterways since 1790,” the proclamation states. “The Coast Guard is a force, usually naval, that plays a significant role in enforcing the country’s marine laws and protecting for defending the international border. The proclamation noted that the people of Florence share a special history, having provided a home for the Coast Guard since 1917, when the Siuslaw River Lifeboat station was commissioned. In June of 2022, the City of Florence was notified that the Coast Guard, in accordance with public law, enacted by Congress, proclaimed Florence Oregon and official re-certified Coast Guard City for another 5 years. “Today we
honor the community partnership that led to the Florence Coast Guard city designation, Mayor Ward read. USCG Sr. Chief Chris Ouellette and Ex. Petty Officer BM Chief
Sam Blosch were at the July 15 council meeting to accept the proclamation. Country Media newspapers along the Oregon Coast have published a
Salute to the Coast Guard featuring photos, interviews and information from stations along the coast. You’ll find it inside.
Law enforcement and homeless camping
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
The City of Florence recently passed ordinances regulating the time place and manner in which people may “camp” overnight inside the city limits. The ordinance goes into effect soon and Police Chief John Pitcher said that from a law enforcement perspective, the ordinance gives clearer direction.
“We are required to have an ordinance in place that establishes time, place and manner to be able to address sheltering,” he said. “With this ordinance we now have that and have a clearer course of action we can take with complaints. The ordinance addresses what is allowed and what is not allowed, which will
See CAMP, Page A6
PHOTOS BY TONY REED
Clackamas,
summer. After leav-
Estate
Mayor Rob Ward, USCG Sr. Chief Chris Ouellette and Ex. Petty Officer BM Chief Sam Blosch.
Virgina Hunsinger
Virgina Hunsinger was born May of 1929 by parents Matt and Nativedad Minjares in Vinice California. She is the eldest of 7 siblings. She was survived by daughter Monica Day, son Michael Hunsinger (Tanya). Her surviving sister siblings are Ernestine Rodriguez, Terry Brown, and Ruth Saxton. She has 5 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. She moved to Florence in 1980 where she worked at the Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, and a caregiver for many years. She has been a friend to many people in Escondido California and Florence Oregon area for so many years and will be greatly missed. Burns’s Riverside Chapel Florence Funeral Home.
Ken is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne, brother William F. Henderson, children Holly of Long Beach, CA, and Scott, and his two grandchildren, Gabrielle and Curren Henderson of Austin, TX.
Ken’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was devoted to the Family and Friends of Bill W., celebrating 36 years of sobriety on May 15. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: VFW Post 3232 P.O. Box 825 Florence, OR 97439 https://vfw3232.org/ C.R.O.W. P.O. Box 184 (in memory of) Florence, OR 97439 https://www.crowkids.com/ Ken will be deeply missed and celebrated by all who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Cross Road Assembly of God on September 21 at 1 PM. https:// www.florencecrossroadag.org/
Ken Henderson Kenneth P. Henderson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10. Born in Los Angeles, CA, to Phil and Ruth Henderson, Ken’s life journey was enriched by dedication, service, and love for his family and community.
Ken’s early years were spent in Denver before returning to Fullerton, CA, where he graduated from Fullerton High School in 1960. He went on to earn his degree from Claremont McKenna College (CMC) in 1964. After graduation, Ken proudly served his country as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Artillery in Korea, 1964-66.
Upon returning stateside, Ken earned his MBA from the University of Southern California in 1968, becoming a lifelong Trojan. That same year, he met Suzanne Hughey, an American Airlines stewardess from Wilmington, DE, on a blind date. The two were married in the spring of 1969, beginning a beautiful marriage that spanned 55 years filled with love and laughter.
Ken’s professional career took him and Suzanne to Portland, Oregon, in 1973, where their children Holly and Scott were born. The family returned to Southern California in 1975, where Ken led the Keeler Foods Division of Distribuco, Inc. His career in the food services industry later expanded to mergers and acquisitions and executive coaching.
Throughout his life, Ken was deeply committed to volunteer work, serving with the YMCA of Orange, CA, Villa Park Little League, and as President of the Villa Park High School Baseball Booster Club. He also held positions as Vice President of the Serrano Water District in Villa Park, CA, and Professor at Chapman University. After moving to Florence, OR, he continued his community service as President of the Seacoast Entertainment Association, Chaplain of VFW Post 3232, and Board President of the Peace Health / Peace Harbor Medical Center Foundation. Ken’s efforts extended to ChaplainCare, the Band of Brothers’ Backpacks for Kids program, and the Florence Urban Renewal Agency. Known for his leadership and willingness to help others, Ken was a devoted husband, father, and friend who was always there for those in need.
Ken enjoyed reading, listening to all kinds of music, gardening with Suzanne, traveling, baseball, and spending time with his former CMC classmates, aka “TTS.” He also found fulfillment in researching family genealogy and coaching young professionals.
of respiratory failure June 23, 2024 at the age of 87. Born April 14, 1937 to Clark and Dorothy Eaton (Konkle) in Chatsworth, CA
Mildred Millie” Jarvis
Mildred “Millie” Jarvis a strong and beautiful woman entered into Spirit July 11 2024 at her home in Florence. She was born June 17, 1933 in Watonga, Oklahoma. She graduated from California Baptist Collage in 1955 and went on to a career with Bank of America following her retirement she and her husband moved to Florence. She filled her ninety one years with loving care for those around her and doing volunteer work. Millie is survived by her loving husband Bruce, of 68 years and her sister Betty. Memorial Service will be considered in a future date. At her request in Lieu of Florence donations to Friends of Florence Cancer Bus, P.O. Box 598 Florence OR 97439 can be made in her memory. Burns’s Riverside Chapel is in charge of handling arrangements.
Thomas
He grew up in Alvadore, OR .Went to Willamette High school. Then he went into the Army. He worked for 701 for many years until he broke his back for the second time racing motorcycles in the California desert. Doctors said he would never work again but he wouldn’t hear of that so went back to work for the union. He also worked for locals 302 and 612 for many years. After Mount St. Helens erupted, he was sent to move the Tuttle River in Washington clearing silt and debris (in the river from side to side, no small feat). Later, he worked on the Columbia River then later built bridges in Kauai. If you ever traveled to or from the Lihue airport, you’ve likely traveled across one of the bridges he helped build. Tom worked all over the United States. Too many jobs to mention. He loved the excitement, danger and adventure his career provided. He married the love of his life Maria Akers Kekua on April 7, 1984 in Las Vegas, NV. In 1988 he started his business Tom Eaton Contractor, Inc. in Florence, Oregon. His motto was “ If you don’t call I can’t save you any Money” he provided excavation, cat, backhoe and dump trucks throughout Florence and the surrounding areas for over 20 years. He was hard working and took great pride in his work. It was not uncommon for him to get up at 2 or 3 in the morning preparing for the day and work well after dark returning calls and tending business. Known for his black cowboy hat and boots, he had rough looking exterior but a heart of gold. He was generous, kind, and always willing to lend a helping hand. As much as he loved his work, he also loved seeing the world and learning about history of places he traveled with his wife, going on vacations across the continental United
States, Kauai, the Caribbean, Mexico ,and Australia to name a few. However, he was always happy to return home to Florence. He bought 14 acres of trees and brush to build streets and lots creating Eaton Estates, a place he proudly called home. After retiring from construction, he couldn’t sit still long before he took a job working for the City of Florence until he retired for good.
He was very proud of his step-daughter Brandi Kekua-Ellison and her accomplishments and son-in- law Michael Ellison and grandson Kai Kekua Ellison. He had a special place in his heart for his sister-in- law Sally Akers and her two sons Jerry and Cody Akers, taking them on camping trips, hunting, fishing and boating.
Two daughters, Linda (deceased), Annette, from a previous marriage and her grandchildren. Two deceased brothers, Larry Eaton, Reseda, CA. and Billy Eaton, Chatsworth, CA.
In memory there will be an informal gathering at the home of the Eaton’s for Florence friends from 2 to 4 PM on August 3, 2024. Family gathering will be announced at a later date.
Elmer Edward Vermilyea
Elmer Edward Vermilyea of Florence stepped into Heaven on July 9, 2024, at the age of 89. He was born October 1, 1934 in Waverly, Kansas to Archie and Grace Vermilyea.
After spending his early childhood in Waverly, the family moved to Oregon during World War II where his dad worked on the blimp base in Tillamook. When the war ended, they briefly returned to Kansas before venturing forth to Alaska for his dad’s work as the premier finish grade blade operator, at the Elmendorf Airbase. Elmer followed in his father’s footsteps and became an exceptional bladesman (dozer). His reputation for his meticulous
work soon preceded him, as he worked alongside his dad building roads all over Alaska and then later in Oregon. It was said of Elmer, “that he could flip a dime with his blade.”
Elmer married Shirley Titus, his beloved wife of 62 years, on April 14, 1962. Together they traveled back and forth from Alaska to Oregon until they settled permanently in Florence in the early 1970’s. He continued working as a much-desired dozer operator until his retirement at 70 years of age.
Elmer treasured his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Both he and Shirley prayed for each one of them daily by name.
His legacy wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing Elmer’s love for God. Jesus was his Lord & Savior and if you spent any amount of time
Thomas Alva Eaton
Alva Eaton (Tom) of Florence, OR. passed away
I witnessed a contentious exchange between two patrons at a local restaurant. The conversation began amiably but devolved into a loud dispute about politics. One man was liberal and the other conservative. Each was certain the other didn’t understand the Constitution. Each had nasty things to say about the other party’s candidate. The conversation escalated; accusations and name-calling ensued. Ultimately, each threatened to beat the other with his own prosthetic leg; they both stood up to emphasize the point. The “liberal” soon took his to-go bags and left. The “conservative” continued speaking loudly about his opinions; another diner sitting near him shook his hand and told him he had said all the right things. They continued gossiping about the “liberal”, expounding on the “rightness” of their way of thinking, and speculating about what someone might have done with a gun. The “conservative” apologized to two servers he knew and considered to be in agreement with his beliefs. The whole exchange was an appalling breech of respect and propriety in a public place. Regardless of what you believe and how right you think you are, please have consideration for the people occupying space near you. Leave your politics at the door!
Crystal Farnsworth Dunes City
This ought to be a time for many of us to rejoice!
to be precise, 84.5 million, because that is the number of women as of 2022 that are registered to vote. The reason to rejoice is that we now have a candidate for president who has promised to continue policies that respect the rights of women. In another era it would have included those on both sides of the abortion issue, because supporting a woman’s right to chose is not taking away the right to believe. More importantly in 2024, the attack on rights go beyond that. It is an attack on InVitro Fertilization for couples (not just women) whose only chance at having a family is through this medical procedure. And the attack is on couples/women having the right to use contraception to avoid an unwanted pregnancy for the many reasons that exist.
Not only do we have a candidate that promises to support women’s rights, but she has shown important personal qualities that are important in a candidate, a personal sensitivity to others. According to Julie Chavez Rodriguez, former director of Biden’s White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and senior advisor to the president and now the campaign manager for presidential candidate Harris, Harris counseled Rodriguez: to “make sure to bring people to the table who don’t even know it exists.” A clear example of “people over politics,” such a refreshing change of pace in what has become a cannibalistic political arena.
Despite contrary beliefs held by some, women do in fact make good leaders. A mother with even one child in all his or her individual complexities, let alone two or three or more children, is faced with a juggling task of epic proportions. In the modern era, add working outside the home with parenting and there is little doubt that a woman is up to the job.
So, it is Game On for candidate Harris and I am happy she will be a candidate on the ticket.
Nan Harvey Florence OR
Dunes City Citizens:
Are you aware that Dunes City has voted to pursue changing your mailing address? Dunes City met with a representative of Congresswoman Val Hoyle a few months back and requested that she help them acquire a new city-wide zip code to benefit them financially. What does this mean for citizens? It may mean that the Westlake post office becomes the Dunes City post office. It definitely means that citizens’ mailing addresses will change.
Citizens will have to plan for the chaos that will occur as a percentage of bills and personal correspondence is sent back to the sender. All residents would be required to obtain and pay for a new driver’s license.
Business owners will need to develop and pay for new advertising. Those who currently have Florence addresses
will no longer appear on tourists’ electronic searches for Florence area food, activities or lodging. It could affect businesses in Westlake as well.
If you find this concerning contact Val Hoyle. Dunes City cannot change zip codes without congressional support.
Val Hoyle https://hoyle.house.gov/ contact/email-val
Eugene: 940 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401 541-465-6752 By appointment only.
Washington DC: Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515 (202)- 225-6415 Geneva Jackson, Westlake
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor should contain at most 350 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. 101 North, #4 PO Box. 10, Florence OR, 97439 Email: treed@countrymedia.net.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2024 • 6 to 9 p.m.
Miller Park • 1651 18th St.
Meet your local police and first responders
Siuslaw News staff
It may seem trite to say that community safety is the result of partnerships between community members and law enforcement, but when examined closely, it becomes impossible to miss.
Across America, a small number of officers patrol the streets where thousands of people live, work and play and Florence is no different. A small number of sworn officers look out for a large number of people in a town that doesn’t see a lot of criminal or violent activity.
NO CALL TOO SMALL
Police Chief John Pitcher said he strives to keep a community-oriented department.
“The support we get from the community, what we see and what we hear, is greatly appreciated and we don’t take it for granted,” he said. “With what the community can do to help; we have a limited number of officers to cover our area and having additional eyes and ears to help us protect the community is always appreciated. If you see something suspicious, report it, if it ends up not being anything that’s ok.” Pitcher said that responding to an investigating suspicious calls builds an officer’s knowledge of an area and the people that reside in and frequent it.
When asked, Police Sgt. Brandon Bailey estimated the most common call Florence officers respond to are related to suspicious activity.
“That’s individuals not quite knowing what’s going on but find it suspicious,” he said, noting that many calls relate to possibly intoxicated subjects, yelling, or other
disturbances. “They’ll call and give us a rundown of what they’re experiencing and it’s our job to go out and figure out what’s actually going on.”
“I’m not sure if I can say what our most common reason for calling us is,” Pitcher mulled. “I know there are times we are not called because people think we have more important things to do, or it’s just a minor incident and the like. We want people to know they can call us, that is what we are here for and sometimes what is seen as a small thing can lead us to a big thing.”
Sgt. Bailey said FPD officers will respond first with humanity. He praised Siuslaw Outreach Services for its dedication, especially when it comes to finding emergency housing for domestic violence. victims. He also praised the Western Lane Crisis Response Team for the work they do, noting that often people at a traumatic event will not want to talk about their feelings with a uniformed officer.
TALK TO A COP
One night a year, residents, kids and others are encouraged to come out and get to know some of the folks who patrol their neighborhoods. On National Night Out, Aug. 6, Officers around the country meet with community members in a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere.
Chief Pitcher said Florence’s NNO promises to also be a fun time for everyone.
“We’ll have 10 inflatables (that include obstacle courses, bounce houses, slides, and more), dunk tanks, face painters, glitter tattoo artists, balloon twisters and a DJ,” he
said. “We will have a section for bicycle education/safety and a sensory tent which is provided and staffed by ARC of Lane County. A sensory tent is a specially designed space aimed at providing a controlled, calming environment for individuals with sensory needs. These tents are used to offer a retreat where individuals can relax and manage sensory overload, helping them to better participate in and enjoy their surroundings. We will be providing hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, drinks, popcorn and ice cream.” He said Florence Police officers will be joined at the event by personnel from Oregon State Police Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority, Tribal Police, the Department of Transportation, the US Forest Service, Public Utilities and the Coast Guard.
Sgt. Bailey said the department has great support from the community.
“I’ve never worked anywhere else, but I’ve heard from veterans that have worked in other agencies, and agencies that work in our jurisdiction And they hear about the community support that we have is fantastic. The city council has our back, the public has our back, I think that helps us to be successful and seen in the light that we are.”
BEHIND THE SCENES
Asked if the police provide any services that may go unnoticed by the community, Chief Pitcher was not short on comment.
“Some of the things we do that might not be seen; in partnership with WLFEA we provide child safety seat events where trained techs will install the seats properly and can provide car seats
when needed. The officer who is trained can assist with car seats during the year as well,” he said. “We will provide bike helmets to youth if needed. We will do threat assessments for local businesses/organizations to help with the safety/security of their facilities. We provide ALICE training and other threat/personal safety training. We will attend HOA or community events to provide information and answer questions. We conduct patrol checks of areas of concern and our Auxiliary police volunteers will do vacation home checks. Auxiliary will also coordinate establishing neighborhood watch in areas that request it. For Christmas, we identify some families that could use some help providing gifts for their children and work with some caring, generous groups to receive and deliver those gifts.” Pitcher noted that officers are happy to check the welfare of people who haven’t been in regular contact with friends or family, and added that there is no minimum time required for filing a missing person report.
“On missing persons, the old TV standard of you have to wait 24 hours to report is not accurate,” he said. “If there is anything out of the ordinary with someone that causes you concern as to why they are missing call us. If we can’t locate them or account for them being gone, we will enter them as a missing person.”
The main number to FPD is 541 997 3515, which will go to dispatch after hours. It’s the best number for reporting suspicious activity, relaying information or asking questions.
Unfortunately,
they include a variety of methods. We put out regular “How to Protect Yourself” information as a reminder and have posted warning information at locations in town that sell gift cards and the similar items.
If something appears to good to be true, it usually is.
Never send money in any form, cash-bitcoin-gift cards etc., to anyone you do not know or to a trusted source.
No police department will contact you by phone or email and require you to send them money. Other government agencies, such as Social Security, will not contact you unsolicited saying there is an issue and require you to give personal information or send money.
Any legitimate organization that awards a prize will not require you to pay a partial fee to receive your prize. Again, always take some time to confirm and never send any money or give information immediately.
Always confirm who someone is before giving or sending anything by hanging up and contacting a trusted number or email for the stated agency, and you can always call the police department at 997-3515.
Police Chief John Pitcher
help our officers. We have discussed the ordinance with the officers and given them a copy to review before it becomes effective.”
During a ride-along interview with Florence Police Sgt. Brandon Bailey during an evening patrol, he discussed the city’s homeless camping issues.
Asked if the new ordinances change the way law enforcement deal with calls regarding homeless persons, Bailey said it’s important for officers to put people first, within reason.
“We don’t know their circumstances, we don’t know what led them to where they are. It’s not ideal. When we ask these people, ‘are you content with where you are,’ the majority will say no. It’s an unfortunate situation they’re in, but sometimes it’s the only thing they have, so when we are out with our officers making contact with these people in motorhomes are tents, we really try to use compassion. We’re not needing to take enforcement action right there.” He said officers will try to find alternate ways to help people out, and then help them along.
“The ordinance opens up opportunities for people to shelter on private property that was not available before and helps people sheltering in certain situations not be taken advantage of,” Chief Pitcher said. The ordinance allows for private property owners to host people needing temporary shelter sites and councilors approved a property owner registration program for that purpose at the July 15 meeting.
Streetside RVs
Around the city, some RV owners park and live along public streets and roads. Bailey said officers will try to give individuals the ability to move RVs along, and the new ordinance has specific requirements on the distance they can go and how long they can be there, “so we’re not just chasing them around the block.”
“It’s easier for us to enforce those type of things and encourage individuals to find alternate places to park and live, essentially,” he said.
Asked about the living conditions of most RVs, he said officers almost never see one that is clean and sanitary inside. He said many have full sewer and wastewater tanks and the interiors would be unlivable for most people.
Abandoned RVs
At an obviously abandoned RV off Quince Street near the Events Center, Bailey said The large vehicle will need
to be towed once the 72-hour notification requirement is up.
He said officers looked at and tagged the vehicle before, and found that all of the identifying markings, serial numbers, and license plate had been removed. Doors, windows and other body parts had also been removed. Inside, the RV was stripped of furnishings and refilled partly with garbage which one could smell downwind.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if people have slept in here, as it is,” he commented.
Bailey said the city has a program with the county that can tow and dispose of a certain amount of abandoned vehicles per year. RVs are more complicated than Passenger vehicles because they have human waste tanks, refrigeration units, and some contain asbestos.
There is an agreement with the City of Florence to take care of these things, and it needs to happen, he said pointing at the RV. “This thing is a hazard, it’s a danger [to the public], so we try to do due diligence in tagging it.”
Problem areas
The city recently awarded a contract for construction of a trail along the hillside between the Siuslaw River and the property across from the Event Center. the trail is expected to be complete by year’s end. However, the future trail area has been used for temporary sheltering for
some time, and officers are familiar with it.
“This is a problem spot for us back here, because it’s so out of sight,” Bailey said, pointing out the area. He said officers regularly find tents and refuse there.
“The big issue is that it’s a main hub off of Highway 126 and the individuals have the ability to come back and pop up a tent and we would never know they are there,” he said.
During early consideration by the Florence Planning Commission and city council, several concerns were voiced about the possible future conflict between campers and users of the future trail.
According to the newly adopted ordinance, sheltering is not permitted “Within visual line of sight from a constructed and signed recreational trail, not already excluded in this subsection.”
Asked what percentage of people experiencing homelessness in Florence are residents (not transient visitors), Bailey loosely estimated that about 90 percent of homeless-related calls will find officers out contacting someone they are familiar with. He said the number of local subjects varies at around a dozen and camp areas can be found around the city anywhere there is dense forest.
“Generally when we’re going to suspicious conditions of screaming or yelling in the bushes, we pretty much know who the core people are going to be. it isn’t necessarily a bad
thing, because they’re here to stay. They live here, but we have built a rapport with these people. Instead of trying to hunt around and see who it is, we know who the individuals are, and generally, what works for them as far as our approach, and what doesn’t.”
Discretion and authority
“We talk about the ‘letter of the law versus the spirit of the law’ a lot,” he said, “but it’s also about just being a good person. You have the authority to absolutely make changes by arrest or monetary [fines] or you can go about it in a different way and try to help these people.”
Bailey said it’s important not to look at the subject with a single approach, since every encounter varies.
“There’s not one way to fix all of this stuff, that would be impossible.” he said. “We like to do standardized policing, 100%, everybody should be treated the same way. Unfortunately, we come across a lot of variables that dictate how we actually have to deal with whatever the situation is. That’s way broader than homeless or transient things, that’s just everyday calls.”
He said officers make note of particular areas where camping and refuse are frequent, and will patrol those areas more often, or as needed.
Out of sight
However, some frequently-used areas are so far from established roads that officers can’t often check on them. Along Highway 101 in the north end of Florence, several deeply wooded areas hide encampments and can only be accessed on foot. That area around Munsel Lane and Highway 101 has been an issue for us, because it’s so heavily wooded,” he said. “It’s not easy for officers to get out of their cars and then go walk hundreds of yards through the heavy wooded area and be so far from their car.” He said officers need to remain close to their vehicles in case they need to respond to an emergency.
He said one of the reasons the area is used so often comes down to availability of supplies. He said people tend
Florence Patriot Shop
From Page A6
to buy what they need at the stores in the area and then return to the wooded areas.
“We have had some patrols go back in there and talk to individuals about lodging,” he said, “It’s private property so they are trespassing, and we have a trespassing notice on file from the land owner, but at any given time you can go back there and someone will be in there.”
Let officers deal with it
Bailey asked that residents not to engage with campers about encampments or other related activity.
“There’s a lot of legality behind these type of things, and a lot of times people might be barking up a tree they don’t have the correct knowledge about. The people that would have the knowledge are a phone call away- us. We’ll come out and talk to anybody and if we suspect that it’s illegal lodging or something like that, we have the skills and knowledge to know how to adequately talk to people. We have the ability to know whether they’re on a specific portion of land from private property to BLM to County jurisdiction. We would encourage people to not engage. If you are genuinely scared, don’t engage them, call the police and we’ll make contact with them.”
A balancing act
City Mayor Rob Ward has noted the balancing act between the rights of residents experiencing homelessness and the rights of residents who are affected by campsites, refuse and other such activity. Meanwhile, other cities in Oregon deal with much higher populations of people experiencing homelessness and the complications of keeping track of many recreational vehicles as their owners look for new places to park and reside until moved along again.
“For some time now issues around sheltering have been very vague which has made it difficult for officers and all City staff,” Pitcher said. “This ordinance gives clear direction on what is and isn’t allowed and where, which will hopefully help everyone involved.
At the City Council meetings, it has been discussed that if something in this ordinance needs to be reviewed, they are open to that in the future if needed.”
“I do think the City of Florence has a unique approach to this,” Bailey said. “I think it’s because of the proactive nature that we have. Mostly it comes from the support of the people that
enact our ordinances. If we don’t have that core ordinance or that ability to effectively justify our contact with an individual, we don’t an have effective police force to move these things along. We know what our ordinance is and what it allows us to do, but compassion first is a great way to go about it. I don’t have to choose to be compassionate, It’s something that we want to do. It’s something that we should help them out so that they can move along.”
Bailey surmised that a main reason residents don’t see as much homeless activity as other Oregon cities is that residents, officials, and police
react quickly to take care of issues.
“Because the department goes out fairly quickly, it doesn’t allow those miles of motorhomes, it doesn’t allow the accumulation of trash and we don’t allow those things because we have proactive people and proactive policing.”
Editor’s note:
In the coming weeks, I’ll be speaking with more individuals involved in homelessness, from local businesses, to homeless service providers to those experiencing homelessness themselves.
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
Monthly Interfaith Devotions in-person & Zoom 4th Monday 7:00 pm “God’s Word for Today” -Baha’i Writings Join us on Facebook: Florence Baha’i Community For info and meeting location: 541-590-0779 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
Campfires are prohibited outside of developed campgrounds.
The Siuslaw National Forest is implementing Stage I restrictions for fire beginning Friday, July 19. All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited outside of designated recreation sites or campgrounds under a Forest Order. There are exemptions for sand camping campfires in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Sand Lake Recreation Area.
Portable cooking stoves and lanterns using liquefied or bottled fuel are allowed as they can be instantly switched off.
Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, building or a developed recreation site. Generators are permitted only in places devoid of vegetation such as paved areas or developed campsites. Motorized vehicles may operate only on designated trails and roads.
Offroad and off-trail driving is permissible within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area or Sand Lake Recreation Area as designated by the Siuslaw National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map.
“Persistent hot and dry conditions bring a heightened risk of human-caused fire,” said Kevin Reese, Fire Management Officer for Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Management. “We’ve seen an untick in fire activity across Oregon over the last few days, including in the Coast Range. Our fire crews and aviation resources stand ready, but we need the public’s help to prevent humancaused fire starts.”
The Forest order will be in place until rescinded. Fire restrictions can change quickly and the public is encouraged to “Know Before You Go” and to check local conditions before visiting forest lands. To report a wildfire, please call 9-1-1. Additional fire information is available on the Siuslaw National Forest website at https://www fs.usda.gov/main/siuslaw/fire.
City Club to learn about Container Shipping on August 8.
On Thursday, August 08, 2024, City Club of Florence will learn about ‘container shipping’, via railroad, between Coos Bay and Eugene.
Steve Miller and Christine Moffitt , both of Coos Bay
Community Briefs
area, will be the speakers at the August 8th meeting. Miller is an ardent and knowledgeable observer of the Coos Bay Rail Line and Christine Moffitt is an expert on the environmental and economic issues that need to be addressed when discussing the proposed container terminal project.
Dr. Moffitt holds a Ph.D. in fisheries Science and has more than 50 years of experience in natural resources policy, education, and research. She has widespread experience in coastal, riverine, and large lake ecosystems.
Miller earned a degree in Fisheries Science at OSU. After completing two years of military service, Miller accepted the position of Fish Biologist at the ‘salmon ranches’ (Ore-Aqua Foods, owned by Weyerhaeuser, Inc., and the privately owned Anadromous, Inc.). He also spent next three years in Curry County hatching, rearing, and marketing trout, then another year bidding for and completing stream survey contracts for the Forest Service in the Wenatchee National Forest. Pursuing his quest for information, Miller has attended Port of Coos Bay Commission meetings, offered
testimony, asked questions of then Port CEO, John Burns, and requested studies and other documents related to proposed Port projects, including the CBRL. To keep up-todate on pertinent information he has regularly studied transportation media reports to better understand the railroad and international maritime shipping industries.
City Club meetings are always open to the public and begin promptly at 1:30 P.M.
City Club will meet on Thursday, Aug. 8, in the Bromley Room of the Siuslaw Public Library. For more information, go to facebook. com/CityClubofFlorence, or call 541-999-0745.
Friends of the Library Summer Book Sale
Summertime is time for lots of leisure reading. But you don’t want to run out of books! The Friends of the Siuslaw Public Library have the remedy for that: A Summer book sale on Saturday, August 10, 2024 in the Bromley Room at the main branch, 1460 9th Street, in Florence.
Sale hours are 10am -3pm and the books are priced to sell. Hardbacks and trade paperbacks are only $1.00 each and pocket size paperbacks are even better at 50 cents each. And of course we will have our sturdy canvas book totes with custom art by a local artist also available to purchase. These bags are useful not just for books, but for groceries, or toting your beach blankets....Lots of possibilities, for just $10.00 per bag.
The Friends of the Siuslaw Public Library is a 501 (c ) (3), all volunteer non-profit organization and all profits from book sales are used to benefit the Library in its mission. Book sales are the major source of revenue for the Friends, along with donations. For more information, contact the Friends at siuslawlibraryfriends@gmail.com
Farmers Market entertains
One of the unique summer charms of Florence is its Farmers Market, where one can find healthy , locally-grown foods and other items in a setting that seems
like something out of a movie. And then, there’s the soundtrack; Shorebirds and river sounds mix well with upbeat live acoustic music and the Aug. 6 Farmer’s Market has it. Sydney Crapser has been a musician for most of his life, and is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and singer.He has performed around the world, and currently makes Florence, Or. his home. He is currently
working on an album of all originals, performing all the instruments and vocals himself.
Farmers Markets happen every Tuesday through the summer from 3 to 6 p.m. Future performers include: August 6 = Sydney Crapser August 13 = Roanne Legg August 20 = Jamie Smith August 27 = To Be
“The Tale of Two in One City” It was the best of times; it was the first of times. March 7 marked a night of inspired revelation, sitting in the newly renovated Playhouse watching/listening/feeling the mesmerizing music of Denny Weaver. I always knew he was a good professional guitar player; but this was lightyears from just “good.” Denny is what I like to think of as a Siuslaw Success. He wouldn’t consider himself that way; he’s very humble. But I think real success comes as a result of skill, hard work and passion—the agony and ecstasy of defeat and triumph throughout the journey. Denny didn’t push the pause button when he was ready to retire. He could have, because his achievements and peak experiences were impressive enough to allow him to rest on his laurels. But that’s not who he is. He loves creating music, and life for him is a continuous climb to learn and invent new sounds and musical expressions. He was a Siuslaw grad. There was another Siuslaw Success in the building.
As Denny was weaving magic sounds upstairs in the Playhouse, Chef Ben Wiley was creating beautiful and delicious plates of food downstairs in the new Green Room restaurant. The juxtaposition of two successful, creative Siuslaw grads in the building at the same time tickled my imagination. Ben Wiley grew up in Florence, enjoying our small community with its extraordinary wealth of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that he and his friends enjoyed--when he wasn’t busy working in local food venues. But when he graduated from Siuslaw, he was ready to experience life on a larger scale. He worked his way up the success ladder until he was chef in one of the nation’s
top 50 restaurants in Portland, Oregon. His passion for creating amazing food was honed to a find edge as he learned and gained in savoir-faire, seasoned with sophistication, wisdom and fascination with food. And then everything came to an abrupt halt when the country was locked down because of a bug. The restaurant—along with hundreds of others—closed its doors. Ben took a much-deserved
vacation and traveled to Florence to visit friends. To make a long story shorter, we met Ben and fell in love—with him and his food! He eventually decided to move to Florence and join us in building a restaurant where he would have the freedom to create beautiful, excellent food and plant roots in a community that he already had an affinity for. And there I was, sitting in the new
entertainment facility, hanging on every note coming out of Denny’s guitar, and thinking about people downstairs discovering the wonder of Chef Ben’s unbelievably delicious food—all in the same building at the same time—two men in the same city with high school degrees from the same school, sharing their hard-won accomplishments with us here in small town Florence! What a miracle.
Peace Harbor Volunteers 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
men one PSA test at a time. “Someone to talk to...who understands!” 541-997-6626 • 47maribob38@gmail.com www.ustooflorence.org
SPORTS & LIFESTYLE
Famous Sand Boarder surfs Florence Dunes
SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
Peruvian pro sandboarder, Gerson Valle Meza visited Florence for a couple weeks of sandboarding with the Sand Master Park crew. Meza in the US for the next four months on a work visa. His dream was to one day visit the sand boarding capital of the world, Florence, Oregon and to meet Lon Beale aka “Doctor Dune,” founder of Sand Master Park. Meza has entered the Dune Riders International sandboard instructors program offered by Sand Master Park. Upon completion he will be the first Peruvian to be certified through the program.
He hails from Huacachina, Peru and if you look it up on Google Earth, you’ll see why sand boarding is so popular there. It’s a tiny oasis town, surrounded by mountainous sand dunes in every direction. Beale said some of his crew have gone down there to judge events and compete.
“It’s one of the top three sand boarding locations in the world,” Beale said.
Gerson said he traveled here alone and noted that it took five days to drive here from Florida.
Asked where else he’s ridden dunes, he said, “Just Chile, Peru, and now here.”
Gerson beamed when Beale said he and his crew would be taking him to “the big dunes” near Florence and offered him a signature Venomous Sand Board to use.
Afterward Beale said Meza commented often about how different Oregon Coast dunes are from the large, open face dunes in Peru. He said Meza quickly adjusted to Venomous boards which are smaller and have less bindings than those used in Peru.
“Mostly he raves about how beautiful this area is compared to the desert dunes he’s used to,” Beale said.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
TAKAKO
Ryan Klampe tees off at the Florence Golf Links.
Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Launches Young Professionals Group
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce
proudly announces the successful launch of the Young Professionals group, aimed at engaging and supporting individuals aged 21-45 in the Florence area. The inaugural event, held on Tuesday, July 16, welcomed over 40 enthusiastic attendees who gathered to enjoy a vibrant evening of networking, delicious charcuterie, wine, beer, and refreshments catered by Marianne Brisbane of Bodega. The launch event featured an interactive program designed to uncover the interests and goals of the
group. Attendees participated in a quiz and then engaged in table discussions focused on four key areas: Community Building, Professional Development, Social Activities and Engagement, and Community Service & Volunteering. Each discussion was facilitated by a Chamber board member, along with Bob Teter from Siuslaw Outreach Services and Jade Rehder from RAIN Catalysts. Feedback from the facilitators highlighted the diversity and enthusiasm of the participants. Many attendees expressed excitement about the potential for mentorship,
professional development, and community involvement. Topics such as work-life balance, earning a living wage, de-escalation training, and fostering compassion across diverse groups were among the key interests discussed.
Bettina Hannigan, President and CEO of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, noted the positive energy and engagement at the event. “Our goal is to support a thriving community by connecting and nurturing strong relationships among young professionals. This group is a vital part of our strategic plan to attract and retain a dynamic and
purposeful workforce in Florence,” said Hannigan.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited to survey the attendees for future meeting
times, programs, leadership roles, and projects.”
The Young Professionals group is poised to become a cornerstone of the Chamber’s efforts to foster community engagement and professional growth among the younger demographic in Florence. Future events and initiatives will continue to build on the foundation set at the launch event, ensuring that the group remains a vibrant and
‘Disaster cooking’ classes, vendors and more at this years ‘Beat the Wave’ Emergency Prep Expo
Do
How do you prepare for an unexpected emergency at your home? How would you help a loved one with a serious injury? What type of emergency materials do you need in case of evacuation?
Get your questions answered by a host of professionals in the all-day booth area, with experts in the field helping you prepare to face a crisis with confidence.
Speak directly with the emergency personnel who will be helping you through a Siuslaw emergency, with organizations including the City of Florence, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Oregon Office of Resilience Emergency Management.
Do you have a food plan during a disaster? Join a variety of expert home cooks throughout the region as they cook a variety of meals in an all-day “disaster cooking” demonstration sponsored by Florence Food Share. From cooking without heat and water to using portable stoves, the chefs will focus on
non-perishable ingredients in their culinary creations.
Get hands-on experience with classes such as the annual skin suturing workshop, sponsored by PeaceHealth Peace Harbor, along with informative talks on topics on communications without cell phone towers, community wildfire preparedness, and Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH).
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy a free hot dog lunch provided by the Rotary Club of Florence, while supplies last.
“Beat the Wave” is sponsored by the City of Florence, American Family Insurance
The Carmer Agency, LLC and Three Rivers Casino Resort to connect residents on the Oregon Coast with businesses and emergency service providers to raise awareness about disaster preparedness.
Admission is free for the event, which is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Florence Events Center, located at 715 Quince St.
Western Lane Community Foundation Awards grants
Jim Waterman, WLCF President, announced that 27 nonprofit organizations will be receiving over $117,000 for the WLCF 2024/2025 grant cycle. These funds represent WLCF’s ongoing mission of supporting projects or programs providing needed services or facilities for which public funds are not available, or insufficient, and to contribute to the cultural, economic, educational, or social betterment of our community. Their intent is to award large enough sums to make a significant and visible impact on a demonstrated need in our Western Lane community.
Western Lane Community Foundation (WLCF) was founded in 1974 by leaders of the Florence Rotary Club and is a community trust, private nonprofit organization attracting, administering, and distributing private charitable resources for the benefit of residents of Western Lane County. Only the income generated by invested Foundation assets is awarded as grants each year. Current assets are over $13 million representing ninety (90) Managed Funds and is under the auspices of Oregon Community Foundation.
On July 16th, 2024 at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Florence, grants were awarded to the following organizations:
• Mapleton Water District was awarded $9,594.00 to help fund additional administrative staff hours
• First Methodist Free Lunch Program was awarded $6,500.00 to help continue the Florence Free Lunch Program
• Deadwood Community Services was awarded
$6,400.00 to help fund the 2024 Deadwood Summer Camp
• Children’s Repertory of OR Workshops, Inc. was awarded $5,000.00 to help fund the 2024 Summer Arts Instruction
• Food Backpack for Kids was awarded $5,500.00 to help fund food purchases for at-risk children
• Lane Arts Council was awarded $5,000.00 to help build the Lane Arts Council Artist Residency Program at Siuslaw Elementary School
• Oregon Coast Humane Society was awarded $5,000.00 to help fund the new Compassion Corner, building sanctuary spaces for animals and people
• Siuslaw Family Connection was awarded
$5,000.00 to help fund their community family engagement initiative
• Siuslaw Outreach Services, Inc was awarded
$5,000.00 to help fund basic needs vouchers
• Siuslaw Vision was awarded $5,000.00 to help fund catalyzing childcare opportunities in the Siuslaw region
• Siuslaw Watershed Council was awarded
$5,000.00 to help fund their 2024 Watershed Camp and Wilderness Weekend
• Siuslaw Youth Soccer Association was awarded
$5,000.00 to help fund their new field painter and supplies
• Mapleton Middle/High School Business Class was
awarded $4,719.60 to help fund their Business PBL (Salty’s Sales)
• Siuslaw Baseball Softball Association was awarded
$4,700.00 to help fund their fiberglass pitching mound
• Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students was awarded
$4,405.00 to help fund their annual back-to-school clothing giveaway
• Siuslaw High School was awarded $4,019.00 to help fund their Natural Resource Wildland Fire Fighting Course
• Bright Beginnings Christian Preschool was awarded $4,000.00 to help fund their outside play area
• Siuslaw Transportation Solutions (formerly Rods N Rhodies Inc.) was awarded $24,000.00 to help fund their
$3,414.05
THE CHARM TRAIL
WLFEA employs “new” Type 6 Fire Engine
MICHAEL R SCHICK,
Western Lane Fire And EMS Authority
We are excited to announce that Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority has taken delivery of a Type 6 fire engine from the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) through the OSFM Engine Program. This engine, also known as a wildland fire engine or brush truck, was constructed on a Ford F550 chassis and carries 300 gallons of water. The OSFM Engine Program will be distributing a total of 76 new vehicles, including 26 Type 3 engines, 20 Type 6 engines, and 30 water tenders around the State. WLFEA received one of the first Type 6 engines which were manufactured by Skeeter Mfg. at their plant in Nevada.
Funded through Senate Bill 762, which was signed into law in 2021, the OSFM Engine Program is modernizing firefighting equipment throughout Oregon. This
initiative ensures that local fire agencies, like ours, have the necessary tools to effectively combat wildfires and protect lives and property. The engine we received came with all necessary equipment such as hoses and tools and maintenance is also covered through the program. Not only does this vehicle enhance our wildland response in our area we will be able to assist at fires throughout the State through mutual aid responses. “We are extremely grateful to have been selected to receive this engine from the OSFM. It will enhance our ability to get to wildland fires quickly, reach areas our larger engines cannot go, and to fight the fires effectively while they are still small” said Fire and EMS Chief Michael Schick. The engine will be located at Fire Station #1 while crews complete training on the new apparatus.
Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue provides an all-hazards emergency response to 18,585 people over 98 square miles. Western Lane Ambulance District provides emergency medical service (EMS) to 20,923 people over 564 square miles. Together,
our agencies include fulltime, part-time and volunteer personnel that respond to an average of 4,500 calls per year. On October 1, 2019
FEMA flood plain development restriction updates accelerated
WILL CHAPPELL
Country Media
A July 15 letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced that Oregon governments will be required to update flood plain development ordinances by the end of the year.
Tillamook County Director of Community Development Sarah Absher discussed the options for updating ordinances and impacts on her department and development in the county with the board of county commissioners on July 17.
Work on updating the requirements for participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood insurance program has been ongoing since a 2009 lawsuit by the Audubon Society, which claimed that the program was harming Coho Salmon in Oregon in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). FEMA commissioned the National Marine Fisheries Service to investigate the claim and in 2016, the fisheries service released a report
saying that the flood insurance plan was causing a take of Coho and other salmonids that would lead to their eventual extinction. This meant that FEMA needed to update the requirements of partner governments in the flood insurance plan to comply with federal statute.
But that work was delayed, first by a 2016 suit against FEMA by Oregonians for Floodplain Protection and then by a 2018 congressional delay of three years passed by former Congressman Peter Defazio.
When the implementation stay expired in 2021, progress resumed on updating the program, with a proposal for updates released in 2023. The biological opinion called for the program to update the ordinances for building in flood plains to achieve zero net loss in three areas of floodplain functionality that help preserve fish habitat: flood storage, water quality and riparian vegetation.
Under the new rules, any projects proposed in the 100year floodplain would have to include mitigation efforts that would lead to no loss in any of the three fish habitat functions to receive building
permits. The new regulations would allow agricultural, forestry and fishing activities in the floodplain but would make obtaining permits to place fill, add water impervious surfaces or remove vegetation more difficult.
Since FEMA is a federal agency and not allowed to make land use laws, it will be relying on the localities it partners with in the flood insurance program to implement the new standards. Those partnering governments will need to adopt the ordinance updates to continue participating in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program, which covers more than $275 million of property in Tillamook County.
Initially, FEMA officials had said that they would not require governments to update their codes until the proposal had undergone full NEPA review, expected in either 2025 or 2027, but that changed with the July 15 letter. Now, local governments have been told that instead they need to update their ordinances using one of three options provided by FEMA by the end of 2024.
Those options are adopting a model ordinance from
FEMA that includes a no-netloss standard for new development, requiring developers to obtain habitat assessment and mitigation plans for their projects showing that they meet the no-net loss standard or prohibiting development in areas of special flood hazard entirely.
Absher said that she did not see the last choice as a feasible option for the county and that while they had staff that could review habitat assessment and mitigation plans, the added cost was likely to price out many private developers.
While the county’s department of community development has been involved in ongoing discussions with FEMA about the updates and was planning on their eventual implementation, the accelerated timeframe “changes everything for us,” according to Absher.
In the letter, FEMA acknowledged concerns raised by jurisdictions and residents in affected communities but said that the change was to ensure that development complies with federal statute before the update is complete.
County officials must now spring into action to update the ordinance in the allowed
INSIDE LOCATIONS:
7 Eleven
timeframe and Absher and her staff need to complete training with FEMA, which they will do in September. Beyond concerns about added work for her department, Absher said that she was also worried about updating ordinances by the deadline, given Oregon’s rigorous land use regime and that she would be asking an attorney about ways to expedite the process. The updated ordinance will complicate work in areas of special flood hazard, requiring any loss of floodplain functionality to be completely offset elsewhere, with the requirements applying not only to new projects but also maintenance and repair work. At the same time as the update, FEMA has announced that it will no longer be processing floodplain map changes, which had previously allowed people to construct pads elevated out of the flood zone for cow evacuation structures, homes or businesses.
Absher said that she planned to build a new webpage on the county’s website to disseminate information on the ordinance updates as they progress and to update the commissioners regularly. She also said that her staff
American Markets Bi-Mart
Cassie’s Coffee
Cleawox Market
Driftwood Shores Motel
Dutch Bros. Coffee
Florence Pharmacy
Fred Meyer
Krab Kettle
Mini Pet Market
PAPER BOX LOCATIONS:
Dunes Café
River Roasters
Greentrees
Big Dog Donuts & Deli
Krispy Krunch
Linda’s 37th Street Laundry
was reaching out to customers with outstanding permit applications to build in a floodplain with missing documents to alert them to the forthcoming changes and ask for missing material.
Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar said that she was concerned about the changes’ impact on permitting time and disappointed with the change in timeline. Commissioners Mary Faith Bell and Doug Olson echoed Skaar’s sentiments and thanked Absher for sharing the information. Elsewhere in the meeting, commissioners approved a $62,890 contract with DLR to complete a feasibility study and building inspection of the Bureau of Land Management building on Third Street, for which the county entered into a purchase agreement last week.
The board also approved a first-of-its-kind property tax exemption for the 23-unit Kingfisher Apartments in Pacific City, under a tax abatement program delineated by the state legislature.
Ocean Grinds Coffee
Old Town Coffee Roasters
Pro Lumber
Randy’s Riverview Market
Safeway
The Market at Driftwood
Shores
True Value Hardware
Twin Lakes
Woahink Lake RV
Grocery Outlet
Tanglewood Apartments
Shippin Shack
Siuslaw News Rack out side the front door
the administrative offices of Siuslaw Valley Fire/Rescue and Western Lane Ambulance District combined to form
Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority.
Classified
Jorge’s Detail Painting
llc Ccb 207458 Exterior paint 541-521-3271 www.painterjorge. com
DEVOTED CRAFTSMAN, 6’, 180, young 74, seeks rural-minded, nature-inspired, healthy, non-religious girl partner to share productive, romantic, fun, creative life together. Write Phil: PO Box 92, Waldport, OR 97394.
Florence Cleaning LLC - Licensed, Bonded, & Insured, Provides Consistent, High Quality Residential Cleaning. Call today at 541-9995033 or Book at www. florencecleaning.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.
Crew Members - McDonalds is seeking enthusiastic & outgoing individuals looking for flexible schedule flexible hours. TEXT: OR192 to 38000 to apply.
Customer Service RepresentativeZolezzi Insurance Agency is looking for a licensed customer service representative at their Florence location. Email resumes to craig@zianw.com.
Sandland Adventures is hiring summer help for the Fun Center Attractions. Must be 17 yrs or older. Apply in person at 85366 Hwy 101, Florence.
Resident ManagerJoin Our Team at Coast Marina RV Resort! In Beautiful Florence Oregon! This full-time, yearround position is an ideal opportunity for a couple. Bring your RV and become part of our community. The Association will provide the space, electricity, water, propane, wifi , and cover other expenses. In addition, this position comes with a Salary of $2500 to $2700 per month. Interested, Contact Tom Lee at coastmarinarv@gmail.com and forward your resume.
Taxi Driver- Multiple Full-time Taxi Drivers. Stop by 1699 Pine Street for an application.
2018 9.4’ Sand Dolphin water tender boat w/ Minjota motor, batteries, fish finder and trailer. $587. Seal Rock, Oregon. 541-563-3466.
Garage Sale Fri.-Sat., Aug. 2nd & 3rd 9am-3pm
CINDY WOBBE
ESTATE SALES 8/3, 8am-4pm Beautiful home in Mariners Village. Everything must go! Furniture, decor, housewares, ladies designer clothing and accessories. See photos at CindyWobbe Estates.com. Cindy Brent Wobbe Ring 541.999.0126 www.CindyWobbe Estates.com
Paper Bundles
Model 73420 Turf Tiger Mower Handwashing Station Map Cabinet Stools Student Chairs Student Desks Cafeteria Tables Filing Cabinets Lazy Susan Coat Racks Tables, chairs and other misc. items
The doors will open promptly at 9:00am, no early entrance or holds. All items are sold “as is” and must be removed on the day of this sale. Cash only please.
SLN24-3012 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON COUNTY OF LANE In the Matter of the Estate of, KURT A. MEINDORFER, Deceased. Case No.: 24PB00433 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative in the above-referenced estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them to the undersigned personal representative at P. O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon, 97439, within four months after the date of publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative, Rick W. Klessig, Attorney at Law, at P.O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon 97439. Dated and published July 31, 2024. /S/ HELGA M. MEINDORFER, Personal Representative. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Name: HELGA M. MEINDORFER, Address: 4719 Foothill Rd., P.O. Box 160, Westlake, OR. 97493., Phone: 408-355-8470.
SLN24-3014
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Florence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in person and via videoconference on August 13, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the City of Florence City Hall Chambers located at 250 Highway 101, to consider and deliberate on the following: Resolution
nexation and Zone Change: a petition from Jason Erickson and Annette Prater to annex approximately 1.49 acres of property and apply Service Industrial zoning. The property is described as, 87657 Hwy 101, at Assessor’s Map No. 18-12-11-33, Tax Lot 01200 approximately 600 feet SE of the intersection at Highway 101 and Heceta Beach Road. The Planning Commission decision will be a recommendation to City Council for consideration at a hearing on a date to be determined. Meetings air live on Cable Channel 191 and stream at www.ci.florence.or.us/ citymanager/public-meetingslive. Testimony can be given in writing or through a request to participate in the meeting. Those wishing to testify either in person or via webinar must submit a speaker’s card at www.ci.florence.or.us/ bc-pc/requestaddress-planning-commission-speakers-card by 3:30PM on August 13, 2024. Testimony not submitted in compliance with the above procedures, will not be included in the record. For additional information contact the Planning Department at planningdepartment@ci.florence.or.us or 541-997-8237.
SLN24-3015 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON COUNTY OF LANE In the Matter of the Estate of, BARBARA J. FILIATREAU, Deceased. Case No.: 24PB05971 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative in the above-referenced estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them to the undersigned personal representative at P. O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon, 97439, within four months after the date of publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney
for the personal representative, Rick W. Klessig, Attorney at Law, at P.O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon 97439. Dated and published July 31, 2024. /S/ Oregon Pacific Bank Co., Personal Representative. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Name: OREGON PACIFIC BANK Address: PO Box 22000 Florence, OR 97439 Phone: 541-650-6836. SLN24-3016 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON COUNTY OF LANE
In the Matter of the Estate of, WILLIAM R. ALFORD, Deceased. Case No.: 24PB05968 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative in the above-referenced estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with proper vouchers, to the undersigned personal representative at P. O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon, 97439, within four months after the date of publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative, Rick W. Klessig, Attorney at Law, at P.O. Box 97, Florence, Oregon 97439. Dated and published July 31, 2024. /S/ ARNOLD ALFORD, Personal Representative PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
Name: ARNOLD ALFORD Address: 1290 Galls Creek Rd. Gold Hill, Oregon 97525. Phone: 541-840-7687.
SLN24-3009 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON
SLN24-3009 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON FOR LANE COUNTY in the matter of the marriage of Saithip Somya Bailey and Richard Alan Bailey. Case No. 24CN02262. NOTICE TO RICHARD ALAN BAILEY IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT YOU ARE REQUIRED to appear and defend the complaint and order to show cause re: contempt and post-judg-
ment enforcement filed against you in the above-entitled case within thirty (30) days from the date of First Publication as stated herein, and in case of your failure to do so, for want thereof, Plaintiff will apply to the court for relief demanded in the complaint. You are further required to appear at the Lane County Circuit Court on August 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 125 E. 8th Ave., Eugene, OR 97401. You may be liable for attorney fees in this case. A judgment for attorney fees can be entered against you as provided in ORS Chapter 107 should Plaintiff in this case prevail. You must “appear” in this case or the other side will win automatically. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer”. The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the Plaintiff’s attorney or, if the Plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service upon the Plaintiff. If you have any questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800)4527636. SUMMARY OF COMPLAINT: Plaintiff’s requested relief is for a finding of contempt, requiring Richard Alan Bailey to vacate the property listed in the complaint or allow eviction proceedings to take place to award Plaintiff exclusive possession of the property to then sell it, requiring Richard Alan Bailey to pay Plaintiff’s attorney fees and costs for this matter, requiring Richard Alan Bailey to be on bench probation, and granting other appropriate equitable relief as the court deems proper. /s/ Jacy F. Arnold, OSB #011880, Attorney for Plaintiff, Arnold Law, 115 W 8th Ave, Suite 280, Eugene, OR 97401. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: July 24, 2024.
AQUARIUS Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, keep a level head through a demanding time. You’re being pulled in many directions, but you’ve always been cool under pressure and now is no different.
PISCES Feb 19/Mar 20
Dreams fill your mind, Pisces. But you have to operate in the real world. See if you can merge your goals with your dreams this week.
ARIES Mar 21/Apr 20
What seems like innocent fun can quickly escalate, Aries. Be sure to rein in the excitement. If you can’t do so on your own, ask a buddy to assist you.
You
pressure you have been under lately, it can be easy to buckle. However, you have energy reserves in droves and can muscle your way through.
CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20
Miscommunication at work may lead to confusion and broken agreements, Capricorn. You may have to be the level head in this situation and pull everyone together.
TAURUS Apr 21/May 21
This is your time to ramp up the romance, Taurus. If you are single, employ some dating apps to find a new match. If you’re in a relationship, exchange romantic texts.
GEMINI May 22/Jun 21
No one can make healthy decisions for you, Gemini. It is up to you to make some changes. Recommit to healthy eating and exercise this week.
CANCER Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, if your relationship has been complicated by finances and power struggles, that will start to settle in the days to come. You will find a middle ground.
By Emi Burdge
