After many months of meetings and negotiations, the Siuslaw Unified School District board of directors approved a first reading of a contractual agreement for the operation of Whitmore Charter Academy. According to staff reports, the contract was negotiated during the following sessions: May 14, 2024, June 10, 2024, and July 27, 2024. Directors Brian Lacouture, Maureen Miltenberger, and Kady Sneddon represented the board during the negotiation of the operational contract.
Prior to the action, Whitmore Academy board member Jody O’Mara thanked the board for a positive and respectful meeting which led to the working agreement and contract.
“I feel like we developed a great relationship and we want to keep going with this positive relationship,” she said. “It was so wonderful to work with people who were student-focused.” She said she’s excited to be able to move forward and bring the opportunity to the community.
Director Kady Sneddon agreed that it was great to speak with Martindale and O’Mara adding that the positive and respectful deliberation shows in the final contract.
Superintendent Andy Grzeskowiak said the contract will come back for a second reading, at which time, directors should separate questions and comments into two categories. He said he can answer questions of technical and legal nature, but suggested “what if” questions should be directed to O’Mara and Board member Larry Martindale.
Board chair Brian Lacouture advised the other directors to also read Oregon revised statute 338.005 The statute came up in several previous meetings, related to a then-proposed connection to Hillsdale College, a conservative, Cristian liberal arts college in Michigan.
In the text of the lengthy document, it was agreed that the charter will not be a religion-based school.
“WCA agrees that it shall operate, in all respects, as a nonsectarian, nonreligious public school,” it states. “WCA shall not be affiliated with any nonpublic sectarian school or religious organization, as per ORS 338.005 (8). (i) Any affiliation or association with a nonpublic
CONTRACT, Page A2
A river full of Jellyfish
A river full of Jellyfish
Along the Port of Siuslaw last week, onlookers could be seen pointing at the water and remarking how many jellyfish were visible from the shoore.
The critters in question are crystal jellyfish, which are common to the Oregon Coast.
While they do have stinging nettles, they are reportedly harmless to people. However, due to their small size and fragility, people should not catch or handle them. While they can reach about 8 inches across, most seen last week were about 4 to 5 inches across.
They are easy to spot, and appear to glow in certain lighting conditions. If illuminated with a black light, they will glow in bright blue and purple hues. While they can be seen moving, they are helpless against the tidal currents in the Siuslaw River.
Changes in jellyfish populations are often indicative of other environmental changes. However, inquiries to Hatfield Marine Science Center were not returned as of press time, so it’s yet unknown if jellyfish populations in the river are out of the ordinary.
RAIN Catalysts brings Pakistani women to Florence
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
A group of Pakistani women concluded an intense entrepreneurial program last week during a visit to Florence, which, of course, included sandboarding on the dunes.
Program Director Caroline Cummings said the group was invited by City Manager Erin Reynolds in 2015.
RAIN Catalyst is based in Oregon and it’s program accepts invitations to “help build inclusive, entrepreneurial economy.”
“What that means is that they want us to help find those hardto-reach entrepreneurs and wrap resources around them,” Cummings said, noting that many have a regular job but may also be working on other ventures. “It could be that they make handbags, or beauty care products or gluten-free cookies, or they could be working on a new technology.”
Cummings said the program uses a model that helps them find what they need at no charge. Funding comes from city, state, federal and private foundations and corporations, she said.
“Oregon Pacific Bank has been a big sponsor in Florence,” she gave as an example.
Cummings said the program went global about five years ago. The
current two-year project was funded by the U.S. Department of State and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Three universities in Islamabad partnered with the program, including Fatima Jinnah Women’s University.
“This grant required us to host an exchange visit to help advance
women’s entrepreneurship, which is desperately needed in a country like Pakistan, where women don’t have access to the same resources that we do here in the U.S., ” Cummings said.
See RAIN, Page A7
TONY REED PHOTOS
Charles David Suniga
December 2, 1956 – July 11, 2024
Charles Suniga of Portland, Oregon died unexpectedly on July 11, 2024, at age 67
Charles was adopted by Frank & Zelda Suniga of Salem, OR at age 4. He grew up on Woahink Lake in Florence, OR. Charles graduated from Siuslaw High School in 1975. He was extremely gifted, learning to play piano at the age of 7 entirely by ear. Later, Charles added synthesizer with the piano, simultaneously, to create string sounds. Charles created a series of his original music entitled, “Moments of Peace”. He composed 8 albums, two of which were nominated for “Grammy’s”. Charles’ music is currently streamed worldwide and has touched the lives of millions of listeners. Charles was incredibly talented. He not only entertained people through his music, Charles loved to tell jokes and was really funny. He had a special way of
brightening the day of every person he met, with his heartwarming personality. Charles provided benefit concerts and started the music program at the Portland, Oregon Airport where he played for 8 years. Charles spent the last 40 years of his life playing live music for dances and performing daily at area retirement communities. The past 11 years he was with the musical group, “Charles and The Angels”. Charles was humble, kind, funny, and could literally fix ANYTHING! There will never be another beautiful “Angel” like our Charles, and we miss him dearly. Charles is survived by his parents, extended family, and his beloved “Angels”, Jeannine Harwood, Audrey Breznikar and Julia Weiss. A private service for Charles Suniga will be provided in Vancouver, WA. His “Celebration of Life” ceremony will be posted on YouTube at a later date.
Lynne Lee Lansdon was born September 11, 1947, to Dick and Janet Hogue in Hamilton, MT. She passed away peacefully in her Florence, Oregon home on August 15, 2024.
Lynne was a 4th generation Montanan who happily left the frigid winters and emigrated permanently to Oregon in 1980. She was an artist and a teacher of multiply disabled visually impaired children. She was also innately curious and a lifelong seeker of knowledge, which she generously shared with those who were fortunate enough to know her.
No one was a stranger to Lynne. She saw the good in everyone and opened her hand and heart to all she met. All she asked was that any kindness be paid forward wherever possible.
She could often be heard saying, “Nice matters,” “It is what it is,” and “This, too, shall pass.”
Lynne is dearly loved and sorely missed by her husband Cliff, her sister and brother-in-law Marcia and Mike Miesen; her grandson Reginald McInturff, his wife Kathryn and their son Clark; her grandson Lion Lee and his wife Isabel; her niece-inlaw Carol, and innumerable friends and acquaintances. She was predeceased by her son Mathew H. Lee in 2018. Angels on your pillow, Lynne. A celebration of her life will be held at a future date to be determined.
Marion Gacanich
Marion died on Aug 16, 2024, in Klamath Falls, Oregon Marion was born in Long Beach, California on December 1st 1937. She was a daughter of Ellsworth Mansfield McLaurin and Barbara Emma Wright. Her father was in the US Navy
Contract
From
and was then stationed at Long Beach. During WWII her father was wounded aboard the Navy Tender AV-8, USS Tangiers. He retired as a Chief Warrant Officer and was hired as a California Game Warden which he pursued till his death at age 46 in 1956. Her mother Barbara never remarried, passing away in 1996 in Amador, California.
Shortly before her father ’s death, Marion met her 1st husband, John Bernard Purcell. He was born in Listowel, Ireland and had immigrated first to England, then to Canada and lastly to California. He was visiting his elder brother, Tim who then lived in California, while planning to travel on. He met Marion as she was a babysitter for the children of Tim and within a year they were married on 9 September 1955 in Reno, Nevada. Together they had 3 children, James Kevin, Theresa Joan and Maureen Elizabeth Purcell. They lived in Concord, Oakland, Hayward and after retirement, Sutter Creek, California. They divorced and Marion eventually remarried to a widower, Nick Gacanich of Sutter Creek. They lived in Sutter Creek and Nick passed away in 1998.
With the encouragement of her children and her sister, Barbara Jean Lewis, Marion eventually sold out of California and moved to Florence, Oregon where she lived the rest of her active life. She was surrounded by both her sister and her brother, Donald Richard McLaurin who had also retired there. In addition, many nieces, nephew and their spouses were nearby. Marion was always a very happy and down-to-earth person. She only took employment a few years of her life, as she was always happy to
be a housewife. She enjoyed the outdoors and swimming and camping. She was always very gregarious and engaged. She loved her pets and was sad to have to part with them when she became too old to care for them. Her friends and family will always have wonderful memories of Marion. She was lifelong Christian and had many friends throughout her live.
She is survived by her son, James Kevin Purcell of Texas and Colorado, Theresa Joan Purcell Ferreira, of Dairy, Oregon and Maureen Elizabeth Purcell Blum of California. Also, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also survived by a brother, Donald McLaurin and many relations in the Florence, Oregon area.
She will be buried beside her late husband, John B Purcell in Klamath Falls, Oregon.
Marsa Dahlke May 2, 1929 - August 6, 2024
Marsh Lane Blanks Dahlke was born in Whitewright, Texas. She passed away in Coos Bay at the age of 95. She is survived by her son, Chris, her sister, Donna Carnes, a Brother Jerry Blanks and her niece, Debbie Smith.
Marsa, her husband, Ted, Emma, Ted’s mother and their son, Chris, moved to Florence from California in the late 1980’s or early 1990’S. They settled in South Cove on Woahink Lake. Marsa eventually moved into town.
Marsa was a woman of faith, being baptized at age 11. She was a member of Florence Christian Church for 35 years.
Marsa loved football, chocolate, her cats, her Dandy Dinmont dogs and fashion. She always cared a great deal about her personal
appearance, in a humble way. Because of her way with fashion and love for people she chose to work at Connie’s Apparel and for many years at Splash. She had a knack for accessorizing and putting garment pieces together with a flair.
Marsa was still cooking her own healthy meals. She enjoyed a good glass of champagne and had a great sense of humor, witty and kind. She was soft spoken and easy to confide in, open to other’s views, even if they were not her own. She was very generous with family and friends. She was independent and very intuitive about people. For years she worked for Union Oil, having her own career when it was not the norm.
Marsa spent her last months at Shorewood Independent living. Marsa Dahlke was the epitome of class. She will be missed by those that knew and loved her.
OBITUARY POLICY
Country Media offers several options for submitting obituaries, each catering to different needs and preferences: DEATH NOTICE: This option includes basic information such as the deceased’s name, age, town of residency, and details about any funeral services. There is no charge for this service. If you wish to add a photo, there is a $35 fee. STANDARD OBITUARY:
Lynne Lee Lansdon
Reforms Needed to Address Oregon’s Educational Shortcomings
Sen. DICK ANDERSON
I am deeply concerned about the poor educational outcomes we are witnessing in our state. Despite record investments in education, the latest reports indicate that we are not making the necessary progress to ensure that all our children receive a high-quality education. This stagnation not only affects individual students but also undermines our state’s future economic and social prosperity. Something must be done beyond the mantra of “more money”.
Education funding has increased but student numbers
have decreased, resulting in less money going to individual school districts. This decline raises important questions: Where are the students going? Are more families opting for private schools or homeschooling? Understanding these trends is crucial for developing effective educational policies.
Less money to the school district means less money getting to teachers and classrooms. Where is that money going? Can we evaluate the effect of those dollars not in the classroom?
of possibilities. 1601 Willamette Street, Eugene, OR 97401 Direct: 541-285-3250 • Fax: 458-210-2106
We need to foster greater collaboration between schools, parents, and communities. Education does not happen in isolation, and the involvement of families and community organizations is crucial for creating a supportive learning environment. By working together, we can develop innovative solutions that address the unique needs of our students and ensure that every child in our state has the opportunity to succeed academically and beyond. Results and accountability are paramount. I am a strong advocate for holding our education system to high standards. The push for a 100% graduation rate has led to the lowering of graduation standards, making it easier to graduate without truly mastering the necessary skills. This approach does a disservice to students, leaving them ill-prepared for the future. It is unacceptable. School boards should be held responsible for
and have more say in curriculum and graduation standards. Reforming education is a daunting undertaking but it can be done with simple strategies. What if we change our system towards paying good teachers more, investing in early learning, after school activities, vocational programs for kids not going to universities but into the workforce, putting truancy courts back in place for chronic absenteeism, and ultimately reducing bureaucrats at the state level so more funding gets to the local school boards and classrooms?
By addressing these issues, we can transform Oregon’s education system to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. I will continue working towards this goal, making education a top priority on my legislative agenda. Our children’s future depends on the actions we take today, and I am deeply committed to this effort.
ZERO/Us TOO FLORENCE BEHIND THE HEADLINES
BY
BOB HORNEY –PROSTATE CANCER
SURVIVOR - ZERO/ US TOO CHAPTER LEADER
Published - August 14, 2024 - The Siuslaw News
As we’ve been told over and over, the sooner we know we have prostate cancer, the more likely we are to survive it. We also know that with very aggressive cancer it may make absolutely no difference. And, as a gentle/pointed reminder, there is NOTHING
that can take the place of those visits to your urologist and those regular Prostate Cancer Screening Blood Draws and the dreaded DRE. As Oregon Urology reminds us: It is better to know than to not know! Many men are living proof of that reminder
Back in December 2001, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer within several months our long-anticipated retirement life along the Oregon Coast. Those words out of my urologist’s mouth on the phone call, “You have prostate cancer,” struck me with an intensity I had never before experienced. How in the world could this happen - I had been seeing urologists for years?
Next question, am I doomed or do I have hope? For that we turned to the pathologists who were looking at the biopsy samples to determine my Gleason Score. Fortunately for me, it was a Gleason 7. Plus, it was made up mostly of Gleason 3 cancer cells + a fewer number of Gleason 4 cancer cells. With the higher Gleason number being more aggressive, my Gleason 7 was labelled “moderately aggressive.” To Marianne and me, that still meant “get it out!” Since my initiation to prostate cancer, the Gleason Score has been revised. Mine is now a Gleason Grade Group 2 (GGG2). The very lowest Gleason Score is a 6 (3+3), meaning all cancer cells are Gleason 3. It is a low to very low risk type of prostate
OUR STAFF
Perpetua St. • Florence West on Heceta Beach Rd to Kiwanda to South on 2nd
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, Aug. 31 from 6pm-8pm. The show will continue on Saturday and Sunday (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other events over the weekend include a band
Community Briefs
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 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.
Movie in the Park enjoyed by many
Florence City staff estimated about 300 people were in attendance when the screen lit up for Movie in the Park, and people were still arriving. Families spread out across the
grass on lawn chairs and blankets to watch the Dreamworks film, How to Train Your Dragon. Florence Mayor Rob Ward introduced the feature, thanked staff and got a resounding response when he asked if Florence should host more movies in the park. The event was free to all.
Friends of the Library Labor Day Book Sale
Summer is almost over and with Labor Day weekend just around the corner so is the Friends of the Library’s big annual two-day Labor Day Book Sale. Sale dates and times this year are Saturday, August 31, from 10am until
Peace Harbor Volunteers
4pm and Sunday, September 1, from 10am until 3pm in the Bromley room at the Siuslaw Public Library, 1460 9th Street, in Florence. As usual 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, washable 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 (empty), or if you pay $15.00, all the books, DVDs, CDs and audiobooks you can fit in the tote bag at no additional cost.
Remember too: Current members of the Friends of
the Library can get in early, from 9am-10am on Saturday, August 31 for a special “PreSale” event. Memberships are available at the door.
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
were encouraged to stop by the various vendors booths to learn to survive a disaster in this area. There were demonstrations on how to prepare emergency type food choices, information about insurance, emergency preparedness kits to a suturing class where approximately 20 people learned how to suture in case medical help is
Want to make a difference in the community and make new friends? Do you have a few hours a month? If so, we would love to have you join the Volunteer Program at PEACEHEALTH PEACE HARBOR MEDICAL CENTER. Opportunities are available both in and out of the Hospital setting. All training provided. Applications are available at the Lobby Volunteer Desk or the Gift Shop located in the Hospital at 400 9th Street, Florence, OR 97439.
Us Too Florence
Saving men one PSA test at a time. “Someone to talk to...who understands!” 541-997-6626 • 47maribob38@gmail.com www.ustooflorence.org
To include your organization in this directory, please
Quality Care Connections and the Lane Community College Small Business Development Center would like to invite you to participate in our first Early Child Care Business Accelerator course. The goal of this course is to guide providers and potential providers through the licensing, marketing, financial, and administrative components of the in home child care field.
The Early Child Care Business Accelerator program is a 4-month program that focuses on providing the skills and knowledge for persons who intend to become, and persons who already are child care providers, to become
licensed registered or certified family home-based providers. This program is offered in English and Spanish.
The program is offered at no charge to participants. The program has eight in-person weekly classroom sessions in three hour blocks (24 hours total), as well as 5 direct business advising sessions (minimum of 5 hours). Participants should also expect to spend 30-40 hours outside the classroom (4-6 hours per week) to get their home-based child care business started.
Persons are expected to attend all classes and coaching sessions in order to be eligible for college credit and the $5,000 start-up grant.
From Page A3
as a Gleason Grade Group 1 (GGG!). Some have suggested that GGG1 diagnosed
But, it is still cancer. .In a paper published by Anthony V. D’Amico, MD,
R aIn
Catalysts bring Pakistani women to Florence
From Page A1
The 12 women visited Rose and Crown Apothecary, owned by Sarah Butte.
“We’ve been mentoring her and her business since 2016,” Cummings said.
The group also toured City Hall and met with officials, and local RAIN staff.
A first for all
“Then, we wanted to do something fun, Cummings said, “because they were coming to beautiful Florence, Oregon, so we took them to the coast and Lon (Beale, owner of Sand Master Park) reached out to me a said ‘We would love for you to bring this group of women so we can give them a free lesson.’”
Cummings said it was the first time any of them had traveled to the U.S. and several had never left Pakistan.
“It was a very big deal for them,” she said. “They had never sandboarded beforethey had never even heard of it and didn’t know what it was. There was fun, laughs, people falling…” Cummings said the Vice Chancellor of the University even gave it a try. Beale said the group gave positive reviews of their hourlong lesson, all saying they had a great time.
Noting that it was the last day of an intense tour or workshops, practice and making business pitches, Cummings said the dunes offered a much-needed grounding before their return to Pakistan.
PHD, and colleagues revealed that approximately 1 in 12 patients diagnosed with GGG1 prostate cancer during non-targeted prostate biopsy (like mine) may harbor aggressive disease. Non-targeted biopsies (also called “blind” biopsies) simply take a set number of tissue samples from different areas of the prostate gland hoping to find the cancer.
Dr. D’Amico’s team evaluated the odds of adverse pathology at radical prostatectomy (RP) using clinical data
for 10,228 patients diagnosed with GGG1 at biopsy. Of those 10,228 patients, 980 underwent combined targeted and systematic MRI fusion biopsy (CBx group) and 9248 underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided systematic biopsy only (SBx. group). Both are more precise biopsies than what I had following my diagnosis.
Now comes a headline published on August 6, 2024: Even Grade Group 1 Prostate Cancer Can Be Lethal. That
“It’s called an exposure visit, by the U.S. Dept. or State, because they want these women to get exposed to the way we do business in the U.S. an get exposed to the way successful women become business leaders and then take that knowledge back to Pakistan to grow their business there and create opportunities for more women in their own country. More information about the program can be found online at https://www.raincatalysts.
headline is followed by this: The prognosis of Grade Group 1 prostate cancer varies widely, with high-risk features increasing the possibility of adverse pathology, biochemical recurrence, and in some cases, death.
So, what were the significant factors of adverse pathology they were looking for? One would be a PSA exceeding 20 ng/ml. The other factor would be a pathologist’s report that over 50% of the biopsies taken were positive
for prostate cancer. Based on their findings, Dr. D’Amico’s team recommends maintaining the ‘cancer’ classification for patients with GGG1 and consider a rebiopsy to identify unsampled high-grade disease, suggesting that this may minimize the risk of mortality for this subgroup. They added that patients could also consider germline testing and/or molecular classifiers.
I am so thankful for my OUI support staff who have guided my every step
along this 22+ year journey, Drs. Peter Bergreen, Bryan Mehlhaff, Roger McKimmy, P.A.Cameron Derbyshire and Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Barry Blyton. They were “there” to pick up on my Guardian Angel Maureen Bradley’s concern of my 4.1 PSA in December 2001 AND her instant referral to Dr. Bergreen.
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.
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
Broncos rounded up in Florence
Big Awards for Sun-Kissed Summer Exhibition
Artists in FACE’s “Sun-Kissed
As the sun stretches its golden fingers across the sky and the world blooms in a kaleidoscope of colors, we invite you to celebrate the essence of summer through Artists creations at the SunKissed - A Celebration of Summer in Art Exhibition. The celebration of summer and the boundless beauty of this cherished season of this show is up from June 26th to August 26th, 2024. The Gallery Committee members of Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment (FACE) are thrilled to share the illuminated summer-themed works from this show at the Florence Events Center Galleries. A Gala Reception for Artists and friends was held on August 8th and the Florence Events Center.
Show award winners:
Most Most Expressive 3D Work, Alan Huck’s Summer Catch
Best Painting Depicting the Ocean, Tamarah Phillips’ Mysteries of the Deep
Best Photo that Captures the Ocean, John Gavin’s Stonefield
Best Use of Mixed Media in a Painting, Cleo Goss’ Cape Perpetua
Most Imaginative Work, Santiago Carrero’s Solar Grill
Best Traditional Abstract, Christine Richardson’s Full
Bloom
Best Traditional Watercolor, Karen Mohr’s Smith River
Bridge
Most Expressive Photograph, Allan Thornton’s Country Road
Best use of Light & Color, Taunia Greene’s Uncomplicated
Emerging Artist Award, Olivia Ehlers’ Dream by the Sea
Most Unique 3D Expression, Lori Sall’s Tidal Pools
Most Cohesive Collection Award, David Crabtree’s Water Series
Best Visual Display of Action, Pat Briggs’ Moment in Time
Most Impressive Scale of Work, Rosy Clark’s Pansy
Most Expressive Mood in Watercolor, Teakki Legg’s Bright Sun
Most Unique Representation of Nature, Kritzia Scaparo’s Sunflower Whisk
Best Execution of Texture in a Painting, Ali Mageehon’s Brushstrokes of a Setting Sun
For inquiries, please contact the Florence Events Center, 715 Quince Street, 541-9971994 or Jo Beaudreau at BeauxArts Fine Art Materials, 541-991-8213, for show questions. Please note that the art hung in Galleries One and Five may be unavailable for viewing when those rooms are in use for other events.
The Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment organization is an independent 501c3 non-profit in support of the Florence Events Center and all who use it. For more information or to volunteer, please leave a message at 541-9918811 or go to FlorenceArts. org.
— at North Valley, 7 p.m., Grants Pass Friday, Sept. 20 — Cascade Christian (Medford), 7 p.m., Hans Petersen Field Friday, Sept. 27 — Bye
*Friday, Oct. 4 — at South Umpqua, 7 p.m., Tri City *Friday, Oct. 11 — Douglas, 7 p.m., Hans Petersen Field (Homecoming)
*Friday, Oct. 18 — Sutherlin, 7 p.m., Hans Petersen Field
*Friday, Oct. 25 — at Brookings-Harbor, 7 p.m.
*Friday, Nov. 1 — at Coquille Red, 7 p.m.
Coach: Sam Johnson
Assistants:
Andy Johnson, Devin White, Greg Reynolds, Jack Johnson, Jeff Gray, John Rose, Nick Johnson, Sean Campbell
Most Expressive photograph, Allan Thonton’s Country Road
Best Painting Depicting the Ocean, Tamarah Phillips’ Mysteries of the Deep
Best Traditional Watercolor, Karen Mohr’s Smith River Bridge
Man assumed drowned during rescue attempt
Aug. 18 at 4:39 p.m.
a report of a female struggling in the water.
“While units were responding, additional information indicating that a male had entered the water in an attempt to assist the struggling individual was received,” the YRFPD report said. “Shortly after arriving, Yachats Fire personnel, with assistance from a bystander, were able to rescue two females by lifting them from the water to the rocks at the southern area of the recreation site.”
Both women were wearing life jackets. Personnel on the shore could see something in the
entered the
to
the
PHOTO BY YRFPD
Strengthening Coastal Hospitality workshop
The Oregon Coast Visitors Association, taking place from Oct. 8-9 in Florence, OR, is thrilled to announce the first in our lineup of keynote speakers for the annual People’s Coast Summit.
This year, attendees will have the unique opportunity to attend the plenary session: Strengthening Oregon’s Coastal Hospitality Industry – a fireside chat that will be facilitated by Jesse Quinn, Community Engagement Director with Lane Workforce Partnership.
This fireside chat is a discussion of a vital and vibrant part of our region’s
economy – the Oregon Coast hospitality industry. They are going to introduce the Oregon Coast Hospitality Industry Sector Partnership – a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen and elevate our industry. Their mission is simple yet impactful, they aim to provide a platform for collaboration, share best practices, address common challenges, and identify opportunities for innovation and growth.
Jesse will engage our panelists Matt Sayre, Executive Director of Collaborative Economic Development Oregon and Ashley Espinoza,
Executive Director of Lane Workforce Partnership in this introductory chat. Later, participants will have the opportunity for a deeper dive in a workshop session.
Workshop Session Strengthening Oregon’s Coastal Hospitality Industry –A Deeper Dive
Attendees can take a deeper dive into the Oregon Coast Hospitality Industry Sector Partnership during an interactive workshop session. This workshop, facilitated by Jesse Quinn, Community Engagement Director, Lane Workforce Partnership, will explore the vision and goals
of the partnership in greater detail, featuring insights from panelists:
• Ashley Espinoza, Executive Director – Lane Workforce Partnership
• Matt Sayre, Executive Director – Collaborative Economic Development Oregon
• Ryan Kounovsky, Manager of Workforce Programs – Lane Workforce Partnership
• Rebecca Donley, Hospitality Industry Sector
Strategist – Oregon Restaurant and Lodging Association
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how
Rip City Rally set to visit Florence
The Portland Trail Blazers and Moda Health are excited to announce the Rip City Rally route for the special ten-year celebration of the Rally. Among several visit
locations, the rally will come to Florence Sept. 17 at the Boardwalk Market at 1439 Bay Street.
Roving ambassadors from both the team and the health
company will visit cities throughout Western Oregon, connecting with communities to highlight that the Trail Blazers are Oregon’s team and that Moda is committed to
they can contribute to and benefit from this collective endeavor to make the Oregon Coast hospitality industry stronger, more resilient, and even more welcoming.
The campus style event will take place across multiple venues in Florence. This year ’s agenda will feature a line up of speakers and workshops that will offer big-picture thinking and topics valuable to tourism stakeholders from all over the coast.
Attendees can expect to takeaway valuable knowledge and resources around destination marketing, technology, sustainability, and more!
building healthy communities throughout the state.
After tipping off on Monday, Sept. 16, in Coos Bay, the Rally will continue to Florence on Sept. 17 before venturing to Toledo and then joining the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians in Siletz, and then heading to Corvallis to finally close out the week of fun in Woodburn on Sept. 20
Since 2013, the Rip City Rally has visited 37 cities, traveling over 5,400 miles stretching across all of Oregon from Southwest cities like Medford to Northeast cities like Pendleton, with stops along the way in Bend, La Pine, and many more. This year the Blazers and Moda Health will travel 460 miles across Western Oregon.
Trail Blazers and Moda Health representatives will visit area elementary, middle and high schools, engaging with students through career panels, school assemblies and P.E. activities. Each day’s activities will conclude with a community fair from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at which fans can expect games, giveaways and fun activities with Trail Blazers mascots Blaze the Trail Cat and Douglas Fur, along with BlazerDancers, bringing energy, entertainment and community connection to each stop.
Each day, Moda Health’s booth at the fair will feature information and activities to encourage healthy living, as well as a raffle that attendees can enter for a chance to win an outdoor fun kit that includes a cooler, travel speaker, T-shirt and other swag. Any Moda Health and/ or Delta Dental of Oregon member can also present their physical or digital membership card and receive a special gift. Each visit features a ceremonial ribbon cutting and gift presentation with city officials prior to the community fair. Additionally, Moda Health has selected a youth-serving nonprofit partner in each community, showcasing them at the fair and providing a monetary donation to help fund the amazing work each partner does throughout the state to benefit future generations.
Trail Blazers personalities participating in different legs of the rally include Television and Radio Broadcasters, In-Arena Host Todd Bosma, Blaze the Trail Cat, Douglas Fur, BlazerDancers, and more.
Please visit https://www nba.com/blazers/ripcityrally for updates and information all along the rally.
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 loca-
tion. Email resumes to craig@zianw.com. Housekeeper- help older person 2-3 days per week. Near bus route in Florence. 503551-4838.
Taxi Driver- Multiple Full-time Taxi Drivers. Stop by 1699 Pine Street for an application.
Free Queen Mattress Set, no frame, very good condition. 971218-7183
Shih-Tzu mix- great family & therapy. $500. Will deliver. 541-6430400
proximately 1.49 acres of property and apply Service Industrial zoning at 87657 Hwy 101 approximately 600 feet SE of the intersection of Hwy 101 and Heceta Beach Road. Meetings air 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 either in person or via conference call must submit a speaker’s card by 3:30PM on September 16, 2024. Testimony not submitted in compliance with the above procedures, will not be included in the record. For additional information, https:// www.ci.florence.or.us/ council/request-address-city-councilspeakers-card or contact the Community Development Department at 541-997-8237.
SLN24-3023
SLN24-3022 Notice is hereby given that the Florence City Council will hold a hearing in person and via videoconference on September 16, 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: Ordinances No. 8 & 9 Series 2024: Petition from Jason Erickson and Annette Prater to annex ap-
Notice is hereby given that at 9am September 9th, 2024, Pacific Rental Corporation self-storage located at 5045 Hwy 101 Florence OR 97439, will hold a public auction. The contents of the self-storage units leased to the following named person(s) in accordance with our rental agreement, will be auctioned: Richard Chaves #7. Auction Requirements: Each interested person will pay a $400 fully refundable cash deposit prior to the start of the auction to ensure that every item is removed, and the unit is broom clean. Cash only! No checks or other forms of payment other than cash will be accepted. The starting bid is $1610. For questions call 541-999-5735.
SLN24-3024 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON COUNTY OF LANE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF, PETER GEORGE RICCHIO, DECEASED. Case No.: 24PB07018 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the undersigned personal representative at P. O. Box B, 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, Scott T. Bailey, Attorney at Law, P.C. at P.O. Box B, Florence, Oregon 97439. Dated and first published August 28, 2024. Laurie Ann Ricchio, Personal Representative.
Aug 24/Sept 22
the time right now to pay attention to everyone around you to glean what you can. Never Stop gathering information.
LIBRA
Sept 23/Oct 23
Even if others make suggestions, use your own judgement regarding how to spend time this week, Libra. You may want to eschew all responsibilities for something fun.
SCORPIO
Oct 24/Nov 22
Seek new places for any sort of inspiration, Scorpio. You never know what you may uncover unless you visit new places instead of your old haunts. Start exploring this week.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov 23/Dec 21
Some outside energy has muted your normally boisterous personality, Sagittarius. You may want to skip out on social scenes and spend some time at home in the coming days..
CAPRICORN
Dec 22/Jan 20
Strong opinions rule the day, so convincing others could be especially difficult in the days ahead. Wait some time and they try again, Capricorn.
AQUARIUS
Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, there will be some measure of public speaking or performance in your near future, and it is likely giving you a bit nervous. No one will judge you, so try to lighten up
PISCES
Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, you could encounter more oddballs than normal in your daily routines. From customers making scenes to quirky coworkers, you might need to be patient and open-minded.
ARIES
Mar 21/Apr 20
It is time to recharge your batteries this week, Aries. It may be challenging to slow down, but that is just what you need to do or you are going to run out of steam on your next project.
TAURUS
Apr 21/May 21
GEMINI
May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, the side of your brain responsible for pragmatism has been working overtime. You are ready to solve any problems and find answers to most questions.
CANCER
Jun 22/Jul 22
Cooperation from others has been hard
Early on this week you may start out in a bit of a funk, Taurus. That all will change with some words from a friend that will help your mood bounce in the other direction.
