Florence Police Chief John Pitcher gave a presentation to the city council regarding a widely-adopted training program designed to reduce casualties at active shooter events and possibly even stop them as they unfold.
The ALICE (Alert Lockdown Inform Counter Evacuate procedure (ALICE) In response to a violent emergency situation such as an active shooter.
During the council’ s Aug. 8 work session, Pitcher explained that locking doors and hiding in the corner is the old way, but the ALICE procedure gives more options for people to reach safety.
He said that 25 years of mass shooting events have shown the average response time for police responding to an active shooter has been around five minutes.
“If you are depending on the police to get there and save you, it’s going to take us five to six minutes to get there,” he said. “At Sandy Hook, over 100 rounds were fired in 5 minutes.”
He said by the time police arrived, the shooter had already inflicted much damage, death and injury.
Pitcher said that while it happens in schools a lot, mass shootings can happen anywhere.
See SAFETY, Page A8
Sheriff’s
Office arrests barricaded arson suspect near Florence
by LANE COUNTY SHERIFF’S
OFFICE
On the evening of Aug. 6, Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies responded with Oregon State Police to a Dispute in the 5000 block of S. Jetty Rd., Florence. Once on scene, they learned Lindsey Abigail Williston, 39, had intentionally lit a vehicle on fire with a child inside.
The child had been safely removed from the vehicle, but Williston went inside the residence with another child. LCSO, Oregon State Police and Florence Police were able to rescue the second child through a window.
See ARSON, Page A3
Surf breaks, nearshore areas whose special mix of coastal and seafloor characteristics creates waves surfers crave, are often found in or near ecosystems that are conservation priorities, such as coral
Safeguarding places to hang ten and shoot the curl is an opportunity to simultaneously mitigate climate change, fuel tourism and help surrounding ecosystems, new research has shown.
“There is a growing conservation movement regarding coastal areas that host surf breaks,” said
Jacob Bukoski of Oregon State University, one of the study’s co-authors. “Earlier research showed that surf breaks tend to be biodiversity hotspots, but no one had looked at the stocks of carbon held within these ecosystems – carbon that could drive climate change if disturbed and lost.”
In study published in Conservation Science & Practice, Bukoski and collaborators identified more than
88 million tonnes of “irrecoverable” carbon in the land-based ecosystems surrounding 3,602 surf breaks around the globe.
Surf breaks, nearshore areas whose special mix of coastal and seafloor characteristics creates waves surfers crave, are often found in or near ecosystems that are conservation priorities, such as coral reefs and mangrove forests.
Irrecoverable carbon is defined as carbon stored in nature that, if lost, could not be replenished within 30 years. Carbon sequestration is a key component of climate change mitigation.
Bukoski, a faculty member in the OSU College of Forestry, stresses that the study did not take into account the significant, but harder to
See CHANGE, Page A7
Sen. Wyden hosts town hall in Florence
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden held a town hall in the Florence Event Center Friday and took questions from Florence Mayor Rob Ward introduced the senator adding that Wyden had held over 1,000 town hall style meetings in the state of Oregon.
“Florence has benefited as a result of funds that have been provided through the federal government, which involves Senator Wyden, Including our Highway 101 beautification project, which has turned out really nice,” he said. “Our Florence Airport has A resurfaced runway and we have all the electronics that guide people into land and take off safely.” Ward joked that the airport needs another 500 ft of runway so that ”our jet” can take off with more
than a quarter-tank of fuel. Word added that, as a coast guard city, it appreciates the funding from the federal government to keep Station Siuslaw River open for the protection of citizens.
Climate action
After some back and forth ribbing with the mayor, Wyden took questions from the audience, starting with local climate activist Mike Allen, who asked how the City of Florence can pursue funding for a local climate action plan.
“I’m chairman of the Senate Finance Committee,” Wyden responded, “and after 50 years of gridlock on climate change… I was able to break the gridlock in 2022 and what I did, as chairman of the committee was that I said, I’m going to get as close as I can to throwing the energy provisions of the tax code in the trash. I got pretty damn close.
We now have a tax code that says for the next 10 years, the more you reduce carbon, the bigger your tax savings. Number two, we’ll have technological neutrality, so that there is no favoritism, no people getting a
See WYDEN, Page A7
reefs
Earl David McMullen Jr. Earl David McMullen Jr. passed away peacefully on June 29, 2024, in Florence, Oregon, at the age of 73 with his loving partner, Iryna Hunsaker, by his side. Earl was born on March 28, 1951, in Toledo, Oregon. When he was 7 years old, his family moved to Florence, a place that became his home, and where he graduated from Siuslaw High School, Class of 1969. Earl learned the value of hard work at a young age, in the woods with his father and uncles. In high school, he worked at Champion’s, juggling work, school, and a love for all sports, especially
football. After graduating, he drove a log truck with his father, even driving long haul throughout the western United States. Without fear of challenge, and a desire to serve his community, Earl embarked on a career in law enforcement. His career, spanning 29 years, included search and rescue, as both a deputy and sergeant, and as county medical examiner. Earl was a wilderness expert, trained search and rescue scouts, and provided 22 years of scuba diving service. Promoted in 1990, he took charge of detectives for all major Lane County crimes, became a jail sergeant managing deputies, as well as facility violations judge. Earl served 20 years as Range Master, nearly 10 years on the SWAT Team, and was also selected to attend the FBI academy for one term. He worked in all areas of Lane County, from Florence, to Eugene, to Blue River. After serving such an extensive and honorable career, he was able to happily retire as Sergeant in 2001, at the young age of 50. In retirement, he spent
most of his time on the golf course, and as much time as he could with family, friends and traveling.
Earl is survived by his loving daughter, Kelly McMullen, her husband Henry Dayanan, and their children Kiana, Amaya, Ian, and Malia Dayanan; his brother, Kevin (and wife, Shasta) McMullen; his sister, Earllene (and husband Richard) Smith; his brother, Ray (and wife, Anny) McMullen; his nephew Anthony McMullen, and niece McKenzie Kramer. As well as his children by marriage, Angela Anderson and Derrick Lee; his stepfather, Richard Malloy; and step-siblings, Andrea Moore and Mike Malloy.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Beverly Malloy, his father, Earl McMullen Sr., his brother Allen McMullen, and his beloved wife, Georgia McMullen.
Earl will be remembered for the kindness of his heart, the warmth of his smile, and the tangible presence he brought to every room. His legacy
will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Earl D McMullen Jr. We will gather on September 28th, at 1pm, at the Elks Lodge in Florence OR, to share stories, memories, and the joy he brought our lives.
Robert E.C. Stevenson
On August 11, 2024, our family lost Robert E.C. Stevenson. Robert was born June 18, 1967, in Cut Bank, Montana. Robert is survived by his father Conrad M. Anderson, his brothers Richard Stevenson, Conrad, Anderson, and
Dustin Stevenson, his children, Debbie, Robert, Kayla, Amanda, Nathaniel and Abigail Stevenson. Robert was a loving and devoted, father and grandfather to his 10 grandchildren. Robert was surrounded by his father, brothers, children, his fiancé, Leslie Brown, his sister in-laws, Mary Stevenson, and Liz Anderson, in his final moments. Robert was loved by so many people in his life, his friends, aunts and uncles, niece and nephew, cousins and so many others. Robert was the type of person you met and could never forget.
Robert loved to cook, go riding, go shooting and having a good time. Our family lost an amazing man, but we gained an angel. In our hearts always. Burns’s Riverside Chapel is in charge of all arrangements.
Burns’s Riverside Chapel Florence Funeral Home & Siuslaw Valley Crematory 2765 Kingwood Street P.O. Box 250 Florence, Oregon 97439 541-997-3416
The misplaced priorities of political fundraising
By NATALIE WOOD
In an era when millions struggle to make ends meet,
the staggering sums raised for political campaigns stand as a stark reminder of our misaligned priorities. Recent election cycles have seen billions of dollars poured into candidate coffers, while poverty continues to grip communities across the nation. Consider the numbers: In this year’s election, candidates will spend a projected $10 billion for ads alone. Meanwhile, more than 37
million Americans live below the poverty line, facing daily challenges to secure food, housing and healthcare.
This disparity raises a crucial question: What if even a fraction of these campaign funds were redirected to addressing pressing social needs?
The potential impact is profound:
• Housing: No family should be sleeping on the
streets – but they are. More than a million Americans experience homelessness on any given night. Campaign billions could put roofs over their heads.
• Education: No child should be denied a quality education because of their zip code – but they are. Millions of students attend underfunded schools. Political war chests could form thousands of minds.
STOP N’ GO MARKET
• Healthcare: No one should die from treatable illnesses –but they do. Tens of thousands of Americans perish yearly because of a lack of health coverage. Campaign fortunes could save countless lives.
• Jobs: No hardworking individual should live in poverty – but they do. More than 37 million Americans live below the poverty line. Election funds could create pathways to dignified, living-wage employment.
• Infrastructure: No community should lack basic services in 21st century America – but they do. Millions live without reliable internet, safe roads, or clean water. Political millions
could rebuild forgotten towns and neighborhoods.
• Food Security: No child should go to bed hungry – but they do. More than 9 million children in the U.S. face food insecurity. The price of a few campaign ads could fill their plates for months.
These facts highlight the stark contrast between campaign spending and pressing social needs, emphasizing the human cost of our current priorities.
The absence of widespread outrage over this misallocation of resources is puzzling. Perhaps it’s due to the See PRIORITIES, Page A3
Slow down before someone dies
Someone’s going to die, likely a child, if something isn’t done to slow down the traffic that blasts up and down the Munsel Lake Road speedway between the north end of Ocean Dunes Golf Course and the Mormon Church. It’s a no-sidewalk family neighborhood with a heavily-used park, school bus stop, bicyclists and dog walkers. But the secret’s out, that is that anyone can roar through the posted 25 mph shortcut at 50 mph day or night and get away with it. For two decades residents have asked that something be done. I know because I’m one of them. The most we’ve gotten in response to our pleas are temporary “Your Speed Is . . . signs placed for a couple of days and then removed. They definitely make a helpful difference. When we ask why they’re not permanent, we’re told “data is being gathered.”
P
riorities
Misplaced priorities of political fundraising
From Page A2
normalization of exorbitant campaign spending, or a sense of powerlessness in the face of entrenched political systems.
However, there are signs of growing discontent.
Twenty years’ worth?? That’s a heckuva lot of data. I can analyze it for you in three words: Constant Speeding Vehicles. Does someone actually have to die before something is done?
Allie
LeCaux & neighbors Florence
American flag is a symbol of allegiance for all
Not long ago, I was waiting behind an elderly gentleman at a market counter, who was having a pleasant exchange with the clerk. When he turned to leave, I was saddened and stunned to read the message on his baseball cap: “I would rather be an American than a Democrat.” I thought “Does he really mean to write off half of the country as un-American?”
Let us consider all the brave first responders on 9/11 and our firefighters, police, EMTs, teachers, doctors,
Grassroots movements advocating for campaign finance reform and increased focus on social issues are gaining traction. Some politicians have made a point of rejecting large donations from political action committees and running on smaller-dollar contributions.
As citizens, we must demand better. We should challenge candidates to justify their fundraising in light of pressing social needs. We should support reforms that
military personnel and so on. Heroes certainly from all parties: Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Independents, etc. Their devotion does not depend on or extend only to those with the same political affiliation. My friends and neighbors may disagree with me on what best serves the long-term interests of our nation, but I will never doubt that they love our country.
We must put aside the “us vs. them” mentality. Let us share our information, concerns, and ideas without personal attacks, and urge our leaders to compromise and pass bi-partisan agreements again for the good of the American people.
And remember, the American flag is a symbol of hope and allegiance for all of us, not any one party.
Terese Keller Florence
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor should contain at most 350 words. The Siuslaw News reserves
limit campaign spending and amplify the voice of ordinary voters over wealthy donors. Ultimately, a republic that allows vast sums to be spent on political theater while neglecting the basic needs of its citizens is a republic in crisis. It’s time to realign our priorities and invest in the wellbeing of all members of society, not just attempt to influence those seeking office. If you believe in policy for fighting poverty, give some
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 Notrth, #4 PO Box. 10, Florence OR, 97439 Email: treed@countrymedia. net.
NEWSPAPER
OUR STAFF
money to candidates who support that, but also give directly to organizations that do the work.
The funds spent on campaigns could transform lives and communities. The real question is: Do we have the collective will to make it happen?
Wood is executive director of Catholic Charities of Oregon.
Safety Sheriff’s Office
arrests barricaded arson suspect
From Page A1
Deputies attempted to de-escalate and negotiate with Williston, however she refused to comply. As deputies attempted to take her into custody, she responded by spraying a fire extinguisher at deputies and attempting to fight. Deputies were able to subdue and arrest Williston with the use of less lethal tools.
She was lodged at the Lane County Jail for Arson in the 1st Degree, Reckless Burning, Reckless Endangering, Menacing, Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree, Resisting Arrest, and six counts of Harassment.
Pandemic created lasting impacts to attention in class
Although teachers try to create challenging but supportive classroom environments, many students will struggle to maintain attention and focus. While experts have always known, this tendency could not be ignored during the pandemic.
A 2020 survey of more than 400 college students found that 64 percent were concerned about their ability to maintain focus and discipline in remote instructional environments.
Now back in school full-time, students who went through the remote learning during the pandemic, may tend to more distractible and prone to lose attention.
Teachers and students can find greater efficiency in following a few guidelines, which will help them learn and retain information while staying on task with assignments.
First, emphasize one activity at a time.
Various studies have shown that multitasking actually hurts performance and makes it hard to concentrate.
A study conducted at Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that performing two or three activities simultaneously puts significantly more demand on the brain than simply doing those tasks one after another. All students, especially those already struggling to focus, should be
encouraged to take on one task at a time. Take breaks.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that various studies have found that periodic breaks improve mood, boost performance and increase a person’s ability to concentrate and pay attention.
Many students are wellacquainted with lengthy cramming sessions on the eve of a big exam, which can feel like a rite of passage for high schoolers and college students. Parents and teachers can emphasize the importance of taking breaks during such sessions. Periodic rest can also help improve performance.
Break big tasks into smaller tasks.
The Child Mind Institute notes this can help kids effectively tackle more challenging tasks and also shows them how to do so themselves. The piecemeal approach can make big tasks seem less daunting, and the success kids have at each smaller task can provide some needed momentum as they draw closer to solving the problem. Many students struggle to focus on their
studies. Some simple strategies can help students overcome such challenges and fulfill their academic potential. What parents can do to be more involved with school
There’s a lot parents can do to make sure their kids get the most from the school experience, including academics and extracurricular activities. Though students’ level of engagement is ultimately up to them, parental involvement can be crucial to their success.
According to the National Education Council, when parents get involved in their children’s education, those children are more likely to do better in school and be more positive about the school experience.
Parents should consider these possibilities.
Attend school board meetings.
Yes, they can be boring at times, but many community school boards are comprised entirely of volunteers who work with superintendents to advocate for policies and procedures for students.
Decisions typically made by board vote.
Parents can run for school board positions or simply attend meetings each month and let their voices be heard about various issues.
Attend open houses and school conferences.
Putting faces to names can help parents develop a connection for both parents and teachers. Most schools have back to school nights, open houses, and parentteacher conferences.
Open lines of communication. Parents can ask teachers and other staff how they
prefer to communicate.
Some teachers want students to take the lead and reach out first, with parents providing support if need be. Adults need to be responsive when teachers reach out.
Attend school events
Families can make a point to support students entirely. Whenever the opportunity to visit the school comes up — whether for a concert, sports game, trivia night, or fundraiser — parents should make an effort to attend.
Finally- volunteer If parents want to be involved even
further, they can head committees at school or volunteer with the PTA or PTO. They can also help out in the cafeteria, library or in the main office. Parents who have particular skills may volunteer to provide tutoring or mentoring as needed. Furthermore, parents can volunteer in school-sanctioned extracurriculars, such as being Scout leaders or sports coaches.
Being an involved parent isn’t easy but it’s worth it when your child knows you’re there for them and that you’re aware of what they’re going through in school.
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Thursday: 7:30 am – 4:00 pm www.huntfamilydentistry.com
Happy back-to-school season from the library!
We’ve got great resources for learners of all ages:
Storytime Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:30 AM (ages 0-5).
LEGO club Fridays at 2 PM (ages 5-12).
Teen homework help & craft time Tuesdays, 4-5 PM.
Check out TumbleBooks and TumbleMath online for kids K-6.
We can help you find a great read for kids of any age. Stop by the library and ask for suggestions!
Learn more: siuslawlibrary.org or 541-997-3132
It’s BACK TO SCHOOL for Food Backpack for Kids! The Food Backpack for Kids (FB4K) program enters its 12th year of serving food challenged students’ nutritious meals on weekends in Siuslaw and Mapleton School in 2023/2024. This is the singular focus of every Volunteer. Since its’ beginning, FB4K operates with these A B C’s: Every penny donated to Food Backpack for Kids is spent to purchase food.
FB4K program operates with many dedicated Volunteers. There is no paid staff.
Operational expenses are underwritten by Cross Road Assembly of God.
Advertising and Promotional funding is raised separately or donated by others.
Food is purchased mostly from local markets, so FB4K donations are reinvested locally.
Volunteers pack as many as 100 food bags for a scheduled school year week.
FB4K is funded by local donors, groups, grants and fundraisers.
FB4K sustaintability comes from determined community commitment!
Look for us online: www.foodbackpackforkids.com Make checks payable to FB4K P.O. box 3347, Florence, OR 97439
FB4K is a 501 (c)-3 non profit donations are tax deductible.
24 Hours 87764 Highway 101 • 541-997-8855
2024-25 School Year Calendar
Siuslaw School District
6am - 10pm H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Mapleton School District
Change
Protecting surf breaks mitigates climate change
From Page A1
quantify, carbon stocks in the marine portion of surf break areas. The scientists looked at 28,500 square kilometers of watersheds that drain into surf areas. Their analysis showed that more than 17 million tonnes of irrecoverable surf break carbon are found in places categorized as key biodiversity areas but lacking any kind of formal protection. Just 3% of surf breaks are both formally protected and in a key biodiversity area.
Irrecoverable carbon density in surf ecosystems tends to be highest in the tropics and gets lower farther from the equator, with the exception of coastal forests in the Pacific Northwest.
“Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests and temperate conifer forests combined
W yden
Sen. Wyden host town hall in Florence
From Page A1
Wyden added that “direct pay” would mean if a municipality or non-government agency, which largely doesn’t pay federal taxes, comes up with a carbon reduction idea not otherwise eligible, it can
to hold nearly one-quarter of the carbon we found,” said Bukoski, who collaborated with scientists from Conservation International, Save the Waves Coalition, California State University, Channel Islands, and Arizona State University. Oregon ranks second among U.S. states in irrecoverable surf break carbon at almost 3.5 million tonnes. California, at just under 7 million tonnes, leads the way, and rounding out the top 10 are North Carolina, Florida, Texas, Washington, Virginia, New Jersey, South Carolina and Massachusetts.
Increasingly, surf breaks are being recognized as socio-environmental phenomena that can bring opportunity for sustained benefits for local communities, the authors say. They point to the potential intersection of the surf tourism industry, valued at as much as $65 billion globally, and the carbon offset market, where credits are trading at a price of about $10 per tonne of carbon dioxide.
receive a direct payment, as if it were part of the federal tax relief.
“I really recommend that to Florence,” he said. “It will be available, we’ll work with you and we have the staff here … and it will be available to you.”
Asked later about whether he meets with students, Wyden said he tries to do so in every community. He added that among students, the top
Buying or Selling? I can help!
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“Despite their high and multifaceted value, surf breaks and their surrounding environments face all kinds of threats, including coastal development, degradation of habitats, and impacts from climate change like rising sea levels,” Bukoski said. “When carbon-dense ecosystems are converted to other uses, they pump out large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Expanded conservation of surf ecosystems – both their marine and onshore components – could provide a range of benefits in addition to biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation.”
Coastal estuaries, he explains, help with nutrient cycling, control sedimentation and act as nurseries for young fish. Healthy upland ecosystems reduce erosion, which means better habitats and reduced illness risk to surfers because of improved water quality.
“Coral reefs shape surf breaks and provide fishing grounds, offer non-surfing recreational opportunities
concern is always climate action.
“They want to be part of the group that goes in there and cleans out that dead and dying material that makes us so vulnerable to these fires,” he said. “These fires are not your grandfathers’ fires. They are bigger, hotter and more powerful.”
Wyden said officials used to talk of a fire season decades ago, but now the season lasts all year. He added that he’s working to also increase firefighter pay, to ensure yearround protection.
“My biggest fear now is that the west will be all on fire everywhere,” he said, noting that he has warned both republican and democrat presidents of the danger. He said when fires overwhelm resources, they will grow and burn unconstrained.
Merger or not
Asked about the proposed and contested Albertsons Kroeger merger, Wyden said he’s against it because he feels it would reduce the number of pharmacies and
FLORENCE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
2nd & Kingwood • (541) 997-6025 Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for adults is at 9:00 a.m. Online services at www.florenceunitedmethodist.org or find us on Facebook.
FOURSQUARE CHURCH
1624 Highway 101 (next to A&W) –- 997-6337
Pastor George Pagel – Something for the entire family. Sunday Service 10:00 am Wednesday Bible Study returns this Fall. Website: florence4square.com
NEW LIFE LUTHERAN E.L.C.A.
NEW LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH, E.L.C.A.
“Serving Christ by serving others.” 21st & Spruce Streets—(541) 997-8113 Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m.
Online services available on our FaceBook, YouTube, and website: www.florencenewlifelutheran.org
PRESBYTERIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH
3996 N Hwy 101 541-997-7136
Internet and in person Sunday Services at 10:30am, Adult Sunday School is at 9:30am. Call the church for details. Reverend Greg Wood All Welcome. Come as you are.
RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS)
“War is still not the answer.” FCNL
We meet Sunday’s at 11am in our homes. Call 541-515-8191 for locations.
such as diving, and protect shorelines,” Bukoski said. “And just as importantly, ecosystems associated with surf breaks are culturally and spiritually valuable to communities around the world.”
He notes that irrecoverable carbon constitutes only a fraction of the total carbon stored in surf ecosystems. Given resource and time constraints, irrecoverable is the type of carbon that should be prioritized for conservation, “but any carbon lost to ecosystem conversion will affect the climate.”
“Our results suggest a significant opportunity for surf conservation to strengthen protection of climate-critical carbon stocks,” Bukoski said. “At the end of the day, we should be shredding waves, not ecosystem carbon.”
Steve Lundeberg is a news and research writer at Oregon State University. He may be reached at Steve.Lundeberg@ oregonstate.edu
create food deserts in smaller communities.
“The Federal Trade Commission largely agrees with me and they are in federal district court arguing for an injunction,” he said, adding that he’s hopeful it will drive the next round of discussions about pharmacies in small communities.
Asked for his take on offshore wind energy and the inclusion of, and benefit to, area residents in the development process, Wyden said both fishing and wind energy need to work together.
A commenter noted that the Oregon coast will become a destination for climate refugees as the climate warms, but asserted that the current infrastructure isn’t ready for it as the coast is already struggling to find housing, school and medical specialists.
Wyden expressed regret to say “Senate republicans committed malpractice last Thursday, when they voted against our bipartisan bill which would have provided, not just child tax credit expansion for needy kids, but help for small businesses, research and development, and a major addition to housing in every corner of the United States.
“They said, ‘we’ll do it in 2025 when we are in power,’”
Wyden said. “I said, ‘what?”
Isn’t this job about helping people and not about your personal private agenda?’”
Wyden noted that he worked with conservative Jason Smith on the bipartisan bill, which received 357 votes, an amount never seen in the House of Representatives. However, on the floor of the senate, it lacked the votes to advance procedurally.
Saying there’s a lot of work to do to help kids and families, Wyden said he’s hopeful that bipartisan work can return after the election.
Electoral college
Asked about the electoral college and what citizens can do to protect their votes, Wyden said he’s proposed federal legislation to mirror Oregon’s vote by mail system nationally.
Wyden said Oregon is strict when it comes to voter fraud and people have been jailed for it.
Saying he was the nation’s first senator elected by Mail in Voting, Wyden recalled how his challenger, Gordon Smith agreed that the process was fair and conceded. Smith was a candidate in the next election against a democrat nominee and won, using the same system, Wyden said.
Asked what the Lane coast can do to get better doppler radar for weather forecasting, Wyden said, “You can’t have little league radar when you have big league challenges in terms of weather and safety,” he said. Wyden said he will facilitate discussions with Florence officials on the issue. One commenter asked about programs to improve access to doctors and telemedicine, saying he has had instances where he has to go to a doctor to ask if he can use telemedicine.
Wyden said he and former Utah Senator Orrin Hatch (Utah) were working to rebuild medicare around chronic illness being cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, COPD and more.
He said a major component of the bill were telemedicine provisions.
Wyden recalled getting a call from former president Donald Trump’s office asking if those provisions could be used nationally during the pandemic. Of course, he agreed.
“Because we had put all that work into being bipartisan and … why, with all this technology, should you needlessly go through all these hoops to get something that can be handled without [it]. To answer your question we are going to expand it and I feel very strongly about it. It will make a huge difference for communities like Florence and it will allow us to use telemedicine inter-state.”
He said 330 million Americans spent $4.5 trillion on medical expenses collectively, enough to send each family of four a check for $50,000.
“I’m not advocating for some redistribution of wealth,” he said, “but we’re spending enough. We’re just not spending it in the right places.”
Wyden spoke of middlemen, calling out pharmaceutical benefit managers.
UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP
87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach Road
RUAUU? Come explore the answer with us. Sunday Worship Services ~ 10:00am www.florenceuuf.com
RESURRECTION LUTHERAN CHURCH, L.C.M.S.
Worship Services 10 am • Bible Study 9:00 am Pastor Steve Waterman 85294 Hwy. 101 S. – 997-8038 Facebook.com/ResurrectionLutheranChurchFlorence www.puppro.wixite.com/rlcflorence
ST. ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL Church Welcomes You
Worship Sun. 10am Wed 11am 2135 19th St. 541-997-6600 standrewssecretary19@gmail.com Labyrinth & Garden daily 8am-5pm “Be the change.”
SAINT MARY, OUR LADY OF THE DUNES CATHOLIC CHURCH 1.5 miles south
Thank you, family, for your help with our son, “Kelly” Douglas St. Pierre.
He died June 30th, 2024. Brother & wife, Darrin & Jen Condley, son Colby, “Sissy” Robin & Alex Gonzales who went
Nephew Shawn Condley and Christine. His wonderful neighbors Charlie & Debby. Mom and Dad, Steve & Dixie Condley. We all loved you so much.
“These outfits 30 years ago played a real purpose,” he said. “We didn’t have computers and we didn’t have people showing you how to use them. They stepped in and you could get a really good deal on your PBM. Now, the PBMs are taking more profit than they are giving you discounts and reasonable prices.” He said the bipartisan senate Finance Committee voted 26 to zero to work on it.
“If we can start taking on these middlemen, I guarantee you, you will get more for your dollar in health care,” he said.
Wyden also engaged in shorter discussions about the proposed Coos Bay Rail Link, electric vehicles, the “tone in D.C.,” tax simplification efforts, gambling and middle eastern conflict issues.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM OSU
Increasingly, surf breaks are being recognized as socio-environmental phenomena that can bring opportunity for sustained benefits for local communities, according to the authors of the analysis.
“25% of these happen in schools,” he said, “so 75% of them happen in other public places.”
Saying that police officers spend every minute of their day running through possible scenarios in their heads in case circumstances change, Pitcher said people need to train their mind to respond in the same way.
Noting that school shootings often get a lot of attention, Pitcher Corrected the assumption that Columbine was the first large scale School shooting.
“It was Springfield (Oregon),” he said, noting that this state has been a hotbed of such activity.. “We’ve had Umpqua College, we had the mall in Portland, we had the Venue Club in Portland, there have been numerous incidents in Oregon and those are just the bigger ones.”
Noting that most people have three natural responses, fight, evacuate, or freeze, Pitcher said people should
instead train their minds to create distance between themselves and the threat.
“If that’s an option, that’s what we always want,” he said.
Hard lessons to learn
Showing data from Columbine, Virginia Tech, and Sandy Hook, Pitcher
Noted the numbers of injuries and deaths at each shooting incident. He said that at each of those locations, staff were trained the old way; to turn off the lights, lock the doors and hide in place.
“It’s not a bad thing,” he said. “It’s how they were all trained, but now that we can look back we ask why did we do it that way.”
Pitcher noted that there was a SWAT team on location doing training at the very moment the the shooting started at Virginia Tech. He said the shooter chained the doors shut before turning his weapon on people in the room before moving to another location to kill and wound more people before going to a third room to kill and wound even more. By this time, people on campus were aware something was happening.
“Two heroes blocked the doors with their bodies and told everyone to jump out the window,” Pitcher said. The
two people who blocked the doors were killed when the gunman shot his way in, but injuries to the remaining people in that room were minor, mostly caused by jumping out the window, Pitcher said. In the next room, people secured the doors and were able to keep him out, avoiding death or injury.
By comparison, 28 people were killed practicing a passive defense method, versus two killed using a proactive method of escape.
ALICE
Pitcher said the Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate method is a common sense approach that people are not yet used to.
Using the example of 9-11, Pitcher noted that passive people on three planes sat still and cooperated, hoping nothing would happen, but their planes were flown into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, taking their lives and many others. However, passengers aboard United Airlines Flight 93 fought back. While they lost their own lives when the plane crashed in a Pennsylvania field, they kept hijackers from flying the plane into another building as they had planned.
“Those were absolute heroes,” he said, “because that plane was going to the White House.”
Alert
“We’ve got to get information out as quickly as we
possibly can, in any way you can,” Pitcher said, noting that whoever gets the information should not wait for a superior.
Lockdown Pitcher noted that locked doors can be kicked in, and suggested that barricading a door is more effective, when one has no other choice.
“That’s using everything you have, if it’s a desk in your office,” he said. “Whatever you have, wherever you are.” Pitcher said people need to be constantly thinking about where they would go and what they would do if their everyday life became a chaotic, life or death situation.
Pitcher recalled one teacher at Sandy Hook who locked a classroom of kids in a bathroom and wouldn’t open it, even when a voice on the other side of the door was that of a police officer. Instead of trusting the voice, she made the officers contact staff and get a key to the room.
“She saved those kids,” he said.
He added that simply stacking light chairs will be much less effective than using heavy objects and sturdy materials to reinforce a door. Recalling a school training done at the local campus, Pitcher said that by the end of the training,
HOW WE SERVE
Our members – the area’s top business and civic leaders – personify the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” INTERACT CLUB
Interact Clubs guide young 12-18 in developing leadership skills and discover the power of Service Above Self CLUB MEETINGS
On Tuesdays, our lunch meetings educate our members on important issues, build fellowship and provide networking opportunities. CLUB EVENTS
Our members, and their guests, meet regularly to exchange ideas, share interests, & celebrate our diverse perspectives CLUB PROGRAMS
During the club meetings we hear from community experts on various topics and, share ideas
students had learned ways of securing doors so well that officers (playing bad guys) couldn’t get in.
Inform Pitcher said the first person to sense danger should use it to make single or collective decisions as to the best options for survival. He said one must be decisive, but flexible, as the situation may change without warning.
“It’s ok to make a moment’s decision,” he said, “just make a decision.” Pitcher noted that mass shooters don’t want money or objects, but instead to kill people, making passive cooperation a losing decision.
Counter
Pitcher said research shows that trained officers, even those specializing in tactical shooting, hit their target only 20 to 30 percent of the time when that target is trying not to get shot. However, active shooters with much lower tactical skills will hit their target 50 percent of the time if no one is doing anything to stop them.
He said noise, movement, noise and distractions will make it harder for a shooter to hit a target and may buy a moment to get out of the area.
Pitcher said that by moving beyond using lockdown as one’s only defense, people have a greater chance of surviving in greater numbers than by passively waiting for a gunman to arrive.
Swarming a gunman should be a last option but may also stop the shooter, he said. Once the gun is removed from the shooter, it must be secured.
“The last thing you want is to have a gun in your hand when police show up,” he said, noting that sometimes, “a person with a gun” is the only description police may have at the moment.
Councilor Robert Carp, a retired police officer, seconded the advice.
-
Evacuate Pitcher said that in 98 percent of active shooter situations, it was reported that more than one shooter was onsite when it turned out to be a lone gunman. He said getting away from wherever the shooter is may be the best option for survival.
He added that people should not use a car to evacuate, for several reasons, including that it may create a bottleneck at entrances which could prevent police and fire personnel from getting to the area.
“When you get out, run,” he said, “just run.” He said that if a rally point has been previously established, get to it if not, keep running. Officers will find you alive later.
“Distance between yourself and the threat is the best option to survive,” Pitcher said. “If you can help someone get out with you, that’s a hero.”
Pitcher said that when faced with danger, it’s better to do something than nothing.
“If you just sit and do nothing, you’re a dead person, so do something,” he said. After some discussion about particular trainings, scenarios and responses, Pitcher said the department can help facilitate training and exercises to help train the minds of people to act, rather than wait in an emergency situation. He said later that he has also given the presentation to school officials several times and did a training years ago in Siuslaw High School. Several officers at Florence Police Department are trained ALICE instructors. More information can be found online at https://www. alicetraining.com/
Annual Clothing Giveaway and Swap for K-12 Students –August 21-23
Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students is thrilled to announce our 4th annual Clothing Giveaway and Swap!
This event, supported by the Western Lane Community Foundation, is open to all K-12 students in the area and coincides with registration week at both Mapleton and Siuslaw Middle Schools.
Event Details:
Mapleton Middle/High School:
Date: August 21st
Time: During the Mapleton Health Fair
Siuslaw Middle School:
Dates: August 22nd and 23rd
Activities: Bounce house, games, and snacks!
At both locations, students can pick up new undergarments, including bras, underwear, and socks. There will also be a clothing swap where gently used clothes can be exchanged or collected.
Last year, this outreach program supported 220 students, and we hope to reach even more this year. Join us in promoting sustainable fashion and helping our students start the school year with everything they need.
For more information, please contact Jennifer Ledbetter at 541-991-8045 or jen@safeshelterforsiuslawstudents.org
Artists Unite in Yachats
The Yachats Arts Guild(YAG) is holding their Labor Day show ‘ARTISTS
UNITE’ at the Yachats Commons beginning with an artist’s reception on Friday, August 31 from 6pm-8pm. The show will continue on Saturday and Sunday (31 August and 1 September) from 10am4pm. Other events over the weekend include a band concert in the Pavilion and the Farmer’s Market, both adjacent to the Commons.
The Yachats Arts Guild was started by a few local artists in 2007, our membership has now expanded
Community Briefs
to 36 members and a wide variety of different media are represented including oil and watercolor painting, textiles, print, ceramics,intarsia, jewelry and stained glass.
The Yachats Arts Guild is sponsored by Polly Plumb Productions- A non-profit Organization
Coast Radio hosts Summer Auction
More than 100 items worth more than $25,000 will be sold live on air to the highest bidder this Friday, August 23rd, during Coast Radio’s Summer Auction. Bidding will begin Friday at 9:15 AM and continue until all items are sold around mid-afternoon.
It’s our twice-yearly fundraiser, only we aren’t looking for donations, explained Coast Radio General Manager Jon Thompson. Listeners can support their local radio stations and our staff by bidding and winning quality items and services.”
The list of auction items can be found on Coast Radio’s website at www.kcst.com.
You can also stop by our studios for a printed copy of the auction list or e-mail rweil@ kcst.com for a copy.
Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting, you’ll be eligible to bid and save up to thousands of dollars while supporting your local radio stations.
Bidding is simple, but it can be even easier if you pre-register. To do that, just call the station at 541-9979136 during regular business hours prior to the auction. “It does not cost you anything, nor does it obligate you to anything,” said Thompson.
“By pre-registering, you get a unique bid number to use each time you bid, avoiding the necessity of repeating your name and phone number for each call.”
The discounts typically range around 40% to 50% according to Thompson. But he added “We’ve sold items for much less.”
The auction features a long list of items including gift certificates to many of the area’s best restaurants, a recliner, computer, tools, gift baskets, gift certificates for car repair, groceries, tax
work, golf, carpeting, flooring and services for home repair, gardening and maintenance. Certificates and tickets for attractions like Sea Lion Caves, C& M Stables, City Lights Cinema and Wildlife Safari and lodging at the Carriage House Inn, River House Inn, Old Town Inn, Best Western Pier Point Inn and Seven Feathers Casino & Resort.
The auction airs on KCST 106.9 FM and KCFM
AM1250/FM 104.1/FM 103.1
The regular format on both stations will be suspended during bidding. “We keep three items active on the block at any one time”, he said. “We describe them, invite bidders to call, and then after a few minutes we will close it out”. Some items prove extremely popular and often bidders will get competitive. When that happens, the item will stay active until all the bidders drop out except the winner.
The station maintains a phone room with plenty of lines and operators to take the bids and record the sales.
Winning bidders will need to pick up their buy at the station, 4480 Highway 101, during regular business hours, within ten days. You can pay with cash, local check or using a debit or credit card. There is a wide variety of items at varying price points.
Items typically range from $50 to $1,000 in value. But, says Thompson, you’ll only want to focus on how much you save.
Music off Central season fanale announced
Series season finale for Music off Central in Sutherlin Central Park is on August 22. Featuring Summer Groove Party Band.
Bring your dancing shoes to get your groove on. Food trucks, and beer garden open by 5:30 p.m. Splash pad playground for the kids is also available.
Concert is from 7 until 9 p.m. If you want to spend the night at our Motel 6 just tell them you’re here for Music
Pet Partners’ Seventh Annual World’s Largest Pet Walk Fundraiser
Underway
Worldwide Event to be held September 28 to support Therapy Animal Programs
Fundraising is underway for the Pet Partners World’s Largest Pet Walk, presented by Wellness Pet Company. On September 28, therapy animal supporters around the world will lace up their walking shoes, grab their leashes and pet strollers, and walk in support of the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program, which benefits millions of people with the love and comfort of therapy animal visits in schools, senior centers, libraries, hospitals, and many other places.
Now in its seventh consecutive year, the 2024 World’s Largest Pet Walk encourages participants and their pets to walk at any time and in any location on Saturday, September 28, or on the date and time of their choosing. The event is different from many fundraising walks in that everyone can participate and fundraise in the way that works best for them, whether it’s a solo hike, neighborhood gathering, or a workplace employee
engagement activity. People can even walk with or without a pet!
“The World’s Largest Pet Walk is a heartwarming event that celebrates the special bond between people and their pets, and we are grateful for our walkers and supporters,” says C. Annie Peters, president & CEO of Pet Partners.
“This is a great opportunity for anyone who loves their pet to get out and walk and at the same time raise vital funds to support the therapy animals that make meaningful visits to people in need throughout the year.”
There is no registration fee to join the World’s Largest Pet Walk, but Pet Partners encourages walkers and supporters to fundraise. Participants who raise certain amounts by August 16 can get a commemorative Walk bandanna or t-shirt in time to wear on September 28. Other special incentives are offered for various levels throughout the fundraising period.
The vital funds raised through the Walk allows Pet Partners to continue their mission of improving human health and well-being through the human-animal bond. Visit petpartners.org/ worldslargestpetwalk to learn more, to register as a walker, or to make a donation in support of individual walkers or walk teams. Pet Partners encourages everyone to share information about the walk on social media using the hashtag #WorldsLargestPetWalk.
Ride the Dirt Wave 2024 Recap: A Year of Growth and Connection for the Coastal Mountain Biking Community
August 4th wrapped up the third and final event of the 2024 Ride the Dirt Wave (RTDW) race series, sponsored by the Oregon Coast Visitors Association. This year, riders came from all over Oregon and beyond to experience our coastal trail systems at the same beloved locations (Klootchy Creek, Whiskey Run, and Big Creek trails). The atmosphere of the event, with options for casual rides, evening socials, and of course — the race, makes RTDW a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and foster connections among cycling enthusiasts from other regions.
South Coast Destination Coordinator Dave Lacey shared that “One of the coolest things about Ride the Dirt Wave is making new friends from the other coastal bike clubs and trail systems. We even saw a few familiar faces from Mountain Bike Oregon, where we talked with cyclists from all over the state, and got them stoked about our coastal trails.”
One of the standout stories this year was from a family of four from Riverside, California, who dedicated their annual vacation to join the Dirt Wave. They started at Whiskey Run and rode up through Newport, all the way to Klootchy Creek, exploring
the coastal trails along the way. But they weren’t the only ones that traveled to make the event — this year, there was a surge in participants from the Central Valley, Eastern Oregon, California, and Washington, with most participants traveling more than 50+ miles to experience the coastal trails, many for the first time!
The incredible feedback and continuous growth of this event goes to show that the Oregon Coast is quickly becoming a premier mountain biking destination. The Director of the series, Daniella Crowder, shared that “The response and emails of thankyous keep pouring in since
our event wrapped up in Newport, Oregon. The positivity for the event was so high that the attendees rebranded our event the FunDuro. We are so excited for next year, and we already have the dates booked.”
Ride the Dirt Wave will be back again next year, with the addition of a fourth venue!
As the series continues to grow and evolve, there will be plenty more excitement to come. Thank you to all the organizers, participants, partners, and supporters who made this year a success!
Oregon Coast Visitors Association
The Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) is the
official Regional Destination Management Organization for the entire Oregon Coast as designated by the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon). OCVA inspires travel and strengthens collaboration to create and steward a sustainable coastal economy. OCVA has the honor of working with coastal communities to align partnerships, destination development projects, and destination marketing with the vision of creating “a coastal utopia for all.” This includes coastal stakeholders, new and returning visitors, and the natural resources that make these coveted experiences so magical.
3A and 4A Volleyball championships moving to North Bend
OSAA state championship volleyball at the 4A and 3A levels is a moving experience.
That’s especially true in 2024, as the OSAA / OnPoint Community Credit Union Girls Volleyball 4A/3A State Championships will be moving from Springfield High, where they have been held since 2022; to North Bend and Marshfield High Schools.
North Bend will host the 4A championships and Marshfield will be the 3A site. The tournaments, slated for Nov. 8-9, will run as single-court events, like basketball. Historically, the volleyball championships have played two matches sideby-side for all but the state finals.
OSAA Assistant Executive Director Missy Smith said that
there were no college venues available for the tournament, as schools were reluctant to give up control of their gyms for two days during a part of the calendar when they are needed for the end of the collegiate volleyball season coupled with the start of men’s and women’s basketball. The 3A basketball tournament at Marshfield in Coos
Bay has been such a success as a destination experience, Smith said, that when Athletic Director Greg Mulkey pitched Marshfield and North Bend for volleyball as well, the choice became clear.
OSAA will use this year to experiment with the site and format, but given the success of 3A basketball in Coos Bay, the volleyball championships in that part of the state could easily become a fixture.
OSAA cracks down on bad behavior
By JOHN L. BRAESZ EasternOregonSports.com
Last season saw 198 ejections in boys’ soccer, up from 137 the previous season. Of the 198, 182 of the ejections were for “bench misconduct, entering the field during a fight, language, serious foul play, taunting, violent conduct or second caution.” The same season saw a postseason football game called in the second quarter
after a fight broke out on the field between Jefferson and South Medford. Citing the increasing number of incidents, the Oregon School Activities Association’s (OSAA’s) executive board has approved updates to the ejection policy. Effective this fall, the new policies include:
• Ejected players will need to complete the online NFHS Sportsmanship Course
• The fine for ejections in a state playoff championship game will increase
• The definitions for “out of sight” and “out of sound” for coaches ejected have been updated
• Suspensions for ejections due to discriminatory language have been doubled
• The suspension period will also be doubled for those entering the field during a
fight, leaving the team box, and/or fighting
• If a school picks up three or more ejections in a program or five or more ejections overall in a school year, the school will be required to attend an OSAA Sportsmanship class
• If a school reaches the above threshold in consecutive years, a trip to Wilsonville to appear in-person before the
“They want to make it a great event like they do basketball,” Smith explained. “We wanted to put a first-class event where someone really wanted us also. We are excited about the opportunity.”
OSAA executive board will be required
• A coach or player that has inappropriate contact with an official will be indefinitely suspended until the player/ coach appears in-person before the Executive Board. Voted to amend Board Policies
August 4th wrapped up the third and final event of the 2024 Ride the Dirt Wave (RTDW) race series, sponsored by the Oregon Coast Visitors Association.
Three Rivers Casino celebrates 20 years of community impact and commitment
For THE SIUSLAW NEWS
Three Rivers Casino Resort is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year. Established and operated by the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, the casino thrives as a premier entertainment destination, significantly contributing to the local economy and charitable initiatives. Since its opening, Three Rivers Casino Resort has remained dedicated to fostering community growth and well-being. As one of the largest employers in the region, the casino provides invaluable resources and employment opportunities. “Three Rivers Casino is very welcoming and rewarding. Everyone is given the opportunity to grow,” said Jesse Gardner, Director of Facilities, twenty-year employee and tribal member. “My responsibilities have empowered me to become a better person and director daily.” As part of its 20-year celebration, team members gathered for a roaring 20s celebration. Teresa Spangler has worked with the casino since its inception and is also a member of the Confederated Tribes. Teresa says she started as a Club Rep and is now the
Director of Guest Services,” I feel like I have lifelong friends that are like family; this includes team members and guests. Our goal is to create an environment you want to work in, and we have a lot of different areas for our team members to find their passion.” Three Rivers Casino is also undergoing exciting changes to enhance guest experiences. Adding a new gift shop and fitness center promises to elevate convenience and wellness options for visitors. The BeachSide Bistro introduces an exciting dining concept with an allnew menu, merging popular venues 101 Burger Bar and Mamma Mia into one comprehensive culinary destination. These updates reflect Three Rivers’ commitment to providing a vibrant, all-encompassing entertainment and hospitality experience on the Central Oregon Coast.
Over the last two decades, the Three Rivers Foundation has also awarded millions of dollars to hundreds of nonprofits in Western Oregon, including those in healthcare, education, food security and law enforcement. As Three Rivers Casino looks ahead, it remains committed to its mission of community enrichment, economic growth and cultural preservation.
Congratulations to Andy Tidball, Rich Colton, Judy Jones, Jesse Gardner, Teresa Spangler, Debbie Miller, Sherry Meyer, Cliff Lupton, Jim Wilson, James Rensing, Mike Bones, Rob Bebee, Nelson Devera, Michael MacDuffee and Linda Fithian
on twenty years at Three Rivers Casino.
For more information, visit threeriverscasino.com.
About Three Rivers Casino Resort Owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, Three Rivers Casino Resort has strong ties to the surrounding community
along the Central Oregon Coast. As one of the largest employers in the area, Three Rivers provides resources and opportunities for tribal and non-tribal members of the region. In addition to providing local jobs, Three Rivers sponsors local arts programs for professional and children’s theater and donates to dozens of local and regional nonprofit organizations. It has become a pillar of community support; the philanthropic spirit of Three Rivers Casino is felt deeply on the Central Oregon Coast and statewide. For more information, visit threeriverscasino.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THREE RIVERS CASINO
Entertainment is the key for guests of Three Rivers Casino as they celebrate 20 years of fun on the coast.
Football
2023 record: 5-5 overall, 4-2 Mountain Valley Conference
• *—3A Special District 4
games
• Friday, Aug. 30 Bye (no jamboree or game planned)
• Friday, Sept. 6
Marshfield Pirates, 7 p.m., Hans Petersen Memorial Field
• Friday, Sept. 13 at North Valley Knights, 7 p.m., Grants Pass
• Friday, Sept. 20
Cascade Christian Crusaders (Medford), 7 p.m.,
Hans Petersen Memorial Field
• Friday, Sept. 27 Bye
(expected to enjoy break after tough preleague schedule)
• *—Friday, Oct. 4 at South Umpqua Lancers, 7 p.m., Tri City
*—Friday, Oct. 11
Douglas Trojans, 7 p.m.,
Hans Petersen Memorial Field (Homecoming)
• *—Friday, Oct. 18 Sutherlin Bulldogs, 7 p.m.,
Hans Petersen Memorial Field
• *—Friday, Oct. 25 at Brookings-Harbor Bruins, 7 p.m.
• *—Friday, Nov. 1 at Coquille Red Devils, 7 p.m.
Coach: Sam Johnson Assistants: Andy Johnson, Greg Reynolds, Jack Johnson, Nick Johnson, Sean Campbell, Jeff Gray, John Rose, Camp Lacouture, Elijah Blankenship
Boys soccer
2023 record: 10-4-1 overall, 6-2-1 3A/2A/1A Specific District 3
• *—3A/2A/1A Special District 3 games
• Thursday, Aug. 29 at Marshfield Jamboree, Coos Bay
• Tuesday, Sept. 3
Sweet Home, 6 p.m., Hans
Petersen Memorial Field
• Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Marshfield, 6 p.m., Coos Bay
• Thursday, Sept. 12 — at Delphian, 5 p.m., Sheridan
• Monday, Sept. 16 North Bend, 5 p.m., 27th and Oak field
• Wednesday, Sept. 18
Pacific/Bandon, 6:30 p.m.,
SPORTS SCHEDULE
Hans Petersen Memorial Field
• Thursday, Sept. 19
Umpqua Valley Christian, 6:30 p.m., Hans Petersen
Memorial Field
• *—Wednesday, Sept.
25 at Elmira, TBD
• *—Monday, Sept. 30
Sisters, 6:30 p.m., Hans
Petersen Memorial Field
• *—Wednesday, Oct.
2 Pleasant Hill, 6:30 p.m.,
Hans Petersen Memorial Field
• *—Monday, Oct. 7
Creswell, 6:30 p.m., Hans
Petersen Memorial Field
• *—Thursday, Oct. 10 at East Linn Christian, 4:30 p.m., Lebanon
• *—Monday Oct. 14
Central Linn, 6:30 p.m., Hans
Petersen Memorial Field
• *—Thursday, Oct. 17 at Santiam Christian, 6 p.m., Adair Village
When most people think of a small-town carnival, they imagine laughter, delicious junk food, games, rides, and family fun. But this year, something is different. Florence’s annual carnival has been taken over by an extreme EVIL that turns happy days into a total nightmare! Most people won’t make it out alive.
Voted “Best Haunt in Oregon 2018” by Oregon Haunted Houses, CROW’s 7th Scare-C.R.O.W.
Haunted Maze, entitled “CarnEVIL of Terror” will be held 5 nights- October 25, 26, 29, 30, and 31 from 6 to 9 p.m.
“Imagine Rhody Days but absolutely horrifying!” said CROW’s Artistic Director,
Melanie Heard. “Pretty much everyone has been to a carnival at least once in their lives. This year ’s theme will take something normally fun and happy and completely distort it, twisting many of your favorite things into the stuff of nightmares. We have some awesome scares planned, and one of my favorite things is hearing people scream!”
A less scary “Family Hour” geared toward younger kids and big chickens will be held on Saturday, October 26 from 5 to 6 p.m., with the maze transitioning back to very scary at 6 p.m. Suggested minimum age for the regular maze is 8+, and entry is always at parents’ discretion, and at your own risk. The
maze is held indoors at the Florence Events Center (715 Quince Street), providing indoor restroom facilities, concessions, lobby games, and photo opportunities.
C.R.O.W.’s “Twisted,”(2023) “Freak Show,” (2019) and “Quarantine” (2018) mazes showed so much deadly appeal that over 1000 guests passed through, traveling from as far away as Astoria, Bandon, Eugene/Springfield, Brookings, Washington and California, and beyond.
CROW is known for exceptionally high-quality production values for their annual performance-based projects, including costumes, make-up, scenic design
elements, props, lighting, sound, and acting. The ScareC.R.O.W. Haunted Maze is an annual fundraiser for the entire non-profit arts program, and all funds directly impact local youth. “Money raised will provide scholarships for dance classes, workshops, and summer camps, as well as help to fund future mainstage musicals, educational materials, and so much more,” said Heard.
“We are currently accepting Haunted Maze sponsorships, and information and perks can be found on our website. Please show you care, by helping us scare.”
Maze admission is $12 per person, per entry or $44 for a party of four (must be
same night). Tickets are sold at the door by cash or credit card. The maze is ADA accessible. There will be onsite food and drinks provided by The Florence Events
Holly Jolly Follies Specialty Act Auditions
C.R.O.W.
vocalists, musical instruments, dance performances, comedy acts, circus arts, duos/trios/ small groups, or creative performance acts of any type.
The year ’s Holly Jolly Follies is titled “Sweet Dreams: A North Pole Nutcracker,” and the show will be C.R.O.W.’s original take on the classic Holiday tale. The original script will be penned by Artistic Director, Melanie Heard.
Specialty Act Auditions will be held Saturday, Sept. 21st at 1 PM at 3120 Hwy 101 in
Florence. The show is Dec 6-8 at the Florence Events Center. The specialty acts are interspersed between the scripted scenes in the show, and should be somehow connected to the story, or fit within the overall themes of Christmas/Holidays or Nutcracker, etc. Heard says, “Don’t worry, this is not your grandma’s boring, overdone Nutcracker! Our show will feature all of the high-quality production values, comedic acts, imaginative costuming, dance, music, and stage magic that C.R.O.W. is known for. Not to mention the World Famous Tutu Dads, Dance
Moms, class performances and much more. The Holly Jolly Follies is Florence’s traditional kick-off to the Holidays, and we promise the show will satisfy your sweet tooth!”
All acts must be family friendly.
Please begin working on your act NOW that you’d like to audition. You must show us the exact piece you are proposing for the show.
Best length for piece is no more than 3 minutes (we prefer short and sweet).
C.R.O.W.’s Dance class participants (invited classes) do NOT need to audition.
To be in the Ensemble only, you do NOT need to audition. The first all-cast read through/rehearsal for the Follies will be Monday, Nov 4th at 6:30 PM for anyone who wishes to be in the main cast. There is no audition to be in the cast of the Follies and all ages and experience levels are welcome. (NOTE: Young children may not participate without an adult supervising them during
rehearsals and backstage.) If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us by email: crowtheatrekids@ yahoo.com
Please note: The C.R.O.W. Production team also reserves the right to invite or accept any Specialty Act without an audition. If you are unsure whether you should audition, please feel free to ask for guidance.
Show sponsorships are available for the 2024 Follies (business or individual) and there are great perks including free tickets and program advertising opportunities. Please contact C.R.O.W. to become a HJF sponsor: crowtheatrekids@yahoo.com
We are always looking for new Tutu Dads and Dance Moms! If you are interested, contact Melanie at crowtheatrekids@yahoo.com
Classified
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.
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.
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.
Housekeeper- help older person 2-3 days per week. Near bus route in Florence. 503551-4838.
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.
Sandpines & Fairway Estates Combined Entrys on 35th and Rhododendron Saturday August 24th 9am to 1pm
Shih-Tzu mix- great family & therapy. $500. Will deliver. 541-6430400
SLN24-3018
Notice is hereby given that the Florence Planning Commission will hold two public hearings in person and via videoconference on August 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the City of Florence, City Hall Council Chambers located at 250 Highway 101, to conside and deliberate on the following applications: RESOLUTION PC 24 21 DR 06 - 97 J SSD - Softball Stand at the Siuslaw High School Design Review for a 1750 sq. ft. softball support facility on the Siuslaw High School property located at 2975 Oak St., Tax Map 18-12-22-00 Tax Lot 00300 within the High-Density Residential District regulated by FCC Title 10 Chapter 10. RESOLUTION PC 24 01 CUP 01- Attached Single-Unit Dwellings in Commercial District Conditional Use Permit for 10 single-unit attached dwellings. The property is 1.15 acres located at 5439 Hwy 126, approximately 450 ft. SW of the intersection of Hwy 126 & Xylo St. and shown on Tax Map 18-12-26-31, Tax Lot 02300 within the Commercial District regulated by FCC Title 10, Chapter 15. Meetings are live on Cable Channel 191 and stream at www. ci.florence.or.us/citymanager/public-meetings-live. Testimony can be given in writing or through a request to participate in the meeting. Those wishing to testify via conference call must submit a speaker’s card at www.ci.florence.or.us/ bc-pc/request-address-planning-commission-speakers-card by 3:30 PM on August 27, 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.
SLN24-3019
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Dunes City Planning Commission of the City of Dunes City, Oregon, at 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at Dunes City Hall, 82877 Spruce Street, Westlake, Oregon. This will be a Type III Procedure hearing to provide a recommendation for the City Council to consider at a public hearing which will be held at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 on the following matter: Application for a Conditional Use Permit for a property line adjustment between property located at 83583 Clear Lake Rd, bearing Assessor’s Map 19-12-23-40, Tax Lot 502 and property located at 83605 Clear Lake Rd, bearing Assessor’s Map 19-1223-40, Tax Lot 4010, as applied for by Fred and Marci Wahl, owners of both properties. Applicable Criteria Applying to this matter: Dunes City Code of Ordinances Section 155.4.3.210 (Transfer of Property) and Section 155.4.4 (Conditional Use Permits). The evidence relied upon by the applicant and the applicable criteria are available for inspection at Dunes City Hall at no cost, and a copy can be provided at reasonable cost upon request. The Staff Report will be available for inspection at no cost at least seven (7) days prior to the Planning Commission hearing, and a copy can be provided at reasonable cost upon request. Written tes-
timony and evidence must be directed toward the criteria described above or other criteria in the Comprehensive Plan or Land Use Regulation which is believed to apply to that decision, and may be submitted to the Dunes City Hall Planning Secretary, P.O. Box 97, Westlake, Oregon 97493, or by telephone to (541) 997-3338, or by email to planning@ dunescityor.com, no later than 3 pm the day of the public hearings. Failure to raise an issue to afford the decision-maker and the applicant an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes the appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals based on that issue.
SLN24-3020 NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION On August 21, 2024, the City of Dunes City will adopt an ordinance concerning the following. An ordinance amending Chapter 123 to Title XII of the Dunes City Code of Ordinances entitled “Short-Term Rentals”, and other matters properly relating thereto. This notice serves as an official publication of the availability of the ordinance. The full text of this ordinance is available on the City of Dunes City website at dunescityhall.com, or may be inspected at Dunes City Hall, 82877 Spruce St, Westlake, Oregon during regular business hours. Persons wishing to address the City Council may submit comments in writing or may provide verbal comments. Written testimony may be submitted by: 1. Email to City Recorder at recorder@dunescityor.com. 2. Mail to Dunes City Hall; Attn: City Council, 82877 Spruce St, Westlake, OR
97493. 3. Drop off at Dunes City Hall during regular business hours, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. **Written comments must be received by 3 pm on August 21, 2024 to be distributed to the City Council and be made part of the record. Citizens may provide verbal comments/ testimony at the meeting in person. For more information about this notice, or any Dunes City Council proceedings, please contact City Recorder, Lila Timmons,
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Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, lately you
taken on the role of project manager and it fits
perfectly. Even though you’re juggling multiple tasks and details, somehow things will work out fine.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov 23/Dec 21
You’re usually content being the world explorer, Sagittarius. However, lately you find the most comfort sticking closer to home. Do whatever makes you happy.
CAPRICORN
Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, fantasy keeps moving closer to reality for you this week. Don’t count out any of those dreams you have been having as they may be inspiration for new plans.
AQUARIUS
Jan 21/Feb 18
You cannot help being unusually focused on all of the little details, Aquarius. It could be a way to quiet your mind, which has been running nonstop for a few weeks.
PISCES
Feb 19/Mar 20
This could be your chance to indulge a little more, Pisces. Whether it’s a big purchase or a night out on the town, do not resist the opportunity to get out and have fun.
ARIES
Mar 21/Apr 20
Do not fight your emotions over the next few days, Aries. You need to embrace your feelings or you might not grow in your relationships. Show everyone the true you.
TAURUS
Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, capture all of your great ideas on paper or in digital form to refer to later on. You’re feeling creative right now, and soon you can turn this into projects that have legs.
GEMINI
May 22/Jun 21
Time isn’t on your side right now, Gemini. You may wonder how you can add hours to the day, but you must make due with the time you have.
CANCER
Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you are seemingly more irresistible than ever before and you’re not quite sure what to do about this newfound attention. You may want to retreat, but enjoy the limelight.Reward yourself with some extra pampering.
