Siuslaw wins season opener,
STAN PUSIESKI
Siuslaw senior Max Reynolds and junior Will Johnson both scored on short runs in the second half Friday to lead the Vikings to a 22-14 victory over Marshfield in a non-league football game at Hans Petersen Field.
The Vikings (1-0) play next Friday against North Valley in Grants Pass. Kickoff is 7 p.m.
Siuslaw opened the scoringFriday with a 51-yard pass from junior quarterback Micah Blankenship to junior tight end Bryce Franzoni with 2:23 to play in the first quarter.
Marshfield tied the game at 8-8 halftime with a touchdown with 5:23 to play in the second quarter, a
10-yard pass from Enoch Niblett to Jaden Tice.
The Vikings took the lead for good at 9:39 of the third quarter on a Johnson 1-yard TD run and a Blankenship 2-point conversion run.
Siuslaw padded the lead to 22-8 with 1:40 to play as Reynolds plunged in from the 3. The conversion run failed.
Marshfield scored as time ran out in the game on another Niblett pass.
The Pirates fell to 0-2 with the loss. The game turned in the Vikings’ favor early as the Pirates had backto-back turnovers, an interception
See OPENER, Page A3
School Board ratifies charter contract
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
Following a short discussion, the Siuslaw School District board of directors voted 6 to 2 to ratify the contract for Siuslaw Valley Charter School to operate Whitmore Classical Academy.
During a second reading of the contract September 11th, directors asked technical questions about the operation of the proposed Charter School, transportation, insurance and other issues.
Regarding the hiring of a head of schools position, Superintendent Andy Grzeskowiak said SVCS is
in the second round of interviews.
He said that will happen early in October but the district doesn’t have a solid timeline yet.
After some procedural discussion about insurance requirements, Grzeskowiak said he modified a signature line in the agreement to allow a vice-chair to sign it, since a head of schools position has yet to be filled, in order to meet contractual requirements. SVCS Director Jodi O’Mara said the signature could be added to the agreement later.
Regarding some language changes about school transportation
Grzeskowiak said the district will not create new bus stops new bus
runs or new bus routes to accommodate charter schools within the district. He said later that seats will be offered “as available” and only if they are within a regular route for the district.
“It may be a little more elegant to say the district will not create new bus routes new bus stops,” he said, later adding that the district is willing to pick up WCA students at its regular stops, but a location for the school has not yet been determined.
Grzeskowiak said SVCS will also be responsible for independent management of its Safe Schools and Vector safety training.
Not ready enough
Director Maureen Miltenberger was the dissenting vote on the board, saying the lack of a top administrator at the charter was one of her concerns.
“The contract itself is excellent. I think that the energy that’s been put into it is admirable and wonderful and I really appreciate the contract as such,” she said “I will be voting no on it however just because … even though I appreciated your answers and your and your complete dedication, I’m very concerned about
See CHARTER, Page A4
Don’t get scammed, just hang up
By TONY REED Associate Editor
As a beat reporter covering police, fire and emergency news for the last 25 years, I’ve written many stories on the topic of phone and internet scams and have interviewed many citizens who have unknowingly sent thousands of dollars into the ether, never to be recovered.
We’ve all heard of the Canadian Lottery scams or the one where the Prince of Nigeria needs you to hold money in your account for a sizable cut. Those who laugh at the ridiculousness of such attempts should know one thing; these scams continue because they continue to work. It likely won’t seem funny when it’s your parents or grandparents who get scammed.
That said, new scams are being deployed all the time. For some time now, callers have been able to mimic numbers of trusted government and law enforcement agencies.
A local man came to my office last week to say he’s been receiving suspicious phone calls from a number that claims to be the Oregon Department of Justice in Salem, a government agency that investigates scams and fraud.
Robert Fritson said he normally doesn’t answer calls from unrecognized numbers but did when he saw Department of Justice on his caller ID. Upon answering, a voice demanded $89 from him but didn’t give much more information. Fritson said he hung up and since, has not picked up other attempts from the same numbers. It’s likely the calls were a phishing attempt, designed to get further financial information from him.
Afterward, he attempted to contact “every number possible” at the DOJ offices during business hours, but said he was told repeatedly that the department doesn’t handle such complaints.
Fritson said he was disheartened by the idea that DOJ didn’t seem to care, especially since the calls appeared to be coming from a DOJ number.
He came to the paper to warn people because he feels it’s only a matter of time until someone is scammed out of a lot of money.
Double-checked
The 541 number did come back to the DOJ and when called, it connected to the department office in Salem. A DOJ representative told me the department will never call someone by phone to request money or payment of any kind.
See SCAM, Page A4
TONY REED PHOTO
Will Johnson dives over the line with the ball.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
By BOB HORNEY Prostate Cancer Survivor, ZERO/Us TOO Chapter Leader
Wow! Here it is mid-September and “I’m late, I’m late for a very important date” - bringing attention to September being National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month as Proclaimed by President Joseph Biden. Shame on me!
In my defense, I have spent the last 22 years raising Prostate Cancer Awareness as close to Every Single Month as possible. That goes back to April 2002 when I temporarily (permanently) assumed leadership of our Florence Prostate Cancer Education/Support
Group’s monthly meetings. Urologist Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff started attending our meetings in 2004. Got answers to our questions now. Fabulous!
Beginning in April 2009, we published an article in the Siuslaw News every single month until March 2020. Our articles stopped because the newspaper needed the space for COVID-19 information/ constant updates. We also had 3-ring binders in many locations around Florence with those same articles for the public to read. Unfortunately, but wisely, those have mostly been removed from public access due to COVID-19.
Back to this September, President Biden correctly points out that this is a time
of remembering and mourning all the courageous men we have tragically lost too soon to prostate cancer. It is also a time we honor the extraordinary resilience of those currently living with and surviving this disease. And, as President Biden points out, we pause to thank the families who tirelessly supported and continue to support their loved ones every step of the way.
President Biden’s Proclamation correctly points out the seriousness of prostate cancer. His 2024 Proclamation states that nearly 300,000 American men with get diagnosed with this terrible disease this year and over 35,000 men will lose their lives to it. Prostate Cancer continues to
be the second leading cause of cancer death for men, trailing only lung cancer. Approximately 1 in every 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his life. The term, “catch it early” is significant in determining survival/non-survival. To “catch it early” we generally turn to screening for the disease. Screening recommendations are all over the universe, so to speak. To screen or not to screen – that is part of a man’s dilemma, and it can carry very tragic results. Wait too long and there may be no catching the cancer that has moved silently beyond the prostate. How do we determine the right time to start being screened?
Now, consider me an avid, perhaps somewhat obnoxious advocate, for my own health. So, in terms of prostate cancer screening, my personal recommendation is this: IF you have a family history of prostate cancer or are simply cautious (as I try to be), make an appointment with a urologist at (or around) age 40. This will be to simply discuss YOU, your family’s history, other pertinent health information and together come up with a screening plan. I suggest you establish this early relationship with a urologist who will be with you through all the urological concerns that face us as we age. So, rather than simply choosing a date to start screening, work
with a urologist to base that date on some personal objective data. As you go through this process, remember, this is YOUR body and YOUR health you are looking out for. Advocate for yourself! Please take a few moments this September to pay tribute to those we know and even those we don’t know, who have dealt with prostate cancer. Include family, friends, healthcare personnel and anyone else who provided assistance along that arduous journey. We have lost way too many men from our ZERO/ Us TOO group right here in Florence. Everyone involved in those journeys deserves our blessings and sincere thanks.
Fifth Anniversary Climate Strike with Maki Vergun
Florence Climate Emergency Campaign will be celebrating its 5th anniversary of climate strikes next week on Friday, Sept. 20, starting at 2 pm in front of the Florence City Hall.
“That means 262 strikes total since September 2019,” said FCEC founder MIke Allen.
The date will coincide with “Fridays For Future” led by Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who will be holding a global climate strike which FCEC will also honor. friond more information at https://globalclimatestrike.net/ usa/
Surprise guests will be Maki Vergun, a litigants in the
climate justice case Juliana v. US and her parents Pam and Rob Vergun from Beaverton, Oregon. Maki’s brother Isaac is also a litigant. “I thank Jim and Jane Pittenger for hosting the Verguns at their home north of Florence,” Allen said.
Pam will conduct a virtual Environmental Voter phone bank from their home on behalf of Elders Climate Action on Friday morning (9-20) at 8 am. Register at: https:// www.environmentalvoter.org/get-involved/ EldersPromoteTheVote2024
Thinking about putting up a sign for this election?
CITY OF FLORENCE
The November 5, 2024, Election is swiftly approaching. Political signs are an important part of election campaigns, but laws regarding when and where they can be placed can differ within the cities, the county, and the state. So, before you begin to put up political signs, be sure you understand the rules for all types of roadways.
WE DO IT ALL! • Pressure washing • Gutter cleaning • House washing
This is a letter of commendation:
First, for Tony Reed and three excellent pieces in the September 4 issue of the Siuslaw News: 1) Val Hoyle’s visit to Florence regarding the project to hold back the slipping area of the Siuslaw River; 2) the opening of the Democratic party headquarters; and 3) the launching of the Jo Beaudreau campaign for State Senator. All three pieces were well done.
Second, I commend Mayor Rob Ward, an avowed Republican, who attended both the opening of the Democratic party headquarters and the Jo Beaudreau event. Mr Ward came to Jo’s event not because of her party but because of her character and her devotion to work of the city council. He is a true team player.
Third, for Jo Beaudreau herself, and her devotion to the city of Florence. I commend her for her work on the City Council, for the way she runs her fine art supply business by listening to and responding to her customers, and for her desire and natural tendency to do what she says she will do – in other words her honesty and sincerity. For these reasons, I, along with my wife, Jan, a good customer of the BeauxArts shop, commend her and support her for a position for which she
is admirably suited, Oregon State Senator.
From the same issue of the paper, I commend Kathryn Damon-Dawson for her excellent letter on “Citizens United”, explaining clearly some of the ramifications of that terrible decision, the first of the recent harmful judgements of the Supreme Court. Finally, in the broader political sphere, I commend Dick Cheney, the former Vice President of the United States under the latter Bush administration, who, following his daughter Liz’ lead, has proclaimed his support of Kamala Harris for President. The Cheneys, though among the most conservative of political figures, and, therefore not ones I would normally admire, are true patriots, putting their country ahead of their party or any personal gain, thus running the risk of ridicule and political harm, similar to what Liz Cheney has already experienced. “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country,” said John F. Kennedy, so long ago that it is almost forgotten. The Cheneys have done that.
George Durant Florence
Endorsement for Jo Beaudreau
I would like to see Jo Beaudreau in the Oregon
State Senate because I have seen her in action in Florence for the last eight years, and I wonder what a personality like hers could do to facilitate progressive action in state government.
Jo has, for many years, been actively engaged in many elements of community life in Florence. She has served on commissions and committees, liaised with the Chamber of Commerce, businesses, various individuals, and groups in order to help their efforts succeed and to promote Florence and the Oregon Coast. She is always ready to help someone achieve their individual or organizational goals with advice, ideas, and hands on helping.
Incredibly discreet, and usually working behind the scenes, it’s amazing to find out how much of what is positive in this town has Jo as an initiator, champion, facilitator, and/or active participant.
You can see her persistence in her efforts to attain leadership: After an unsuccessful bid for Mayor against Joe Henry in 2020, Jo leveraged her experience into a seat on the city council in 2022. Now she is running for state Senator!
Jo is determined to be a leader in creating a positive future for Oregon! Let’s send her to Salem this fall!
Ivy Medow Florence
Highway 126: Mapleton to Florence
Crossing the Siuslaw River thinking of the old Howe covered bridge, brings a shiver to those who know how the times have changed, for better or for worse, only time can tell.
After you cross the Siuslaw River, Passing Randy’s, Franks, and the Alpha-Bit, As you head down the windy, scenic highway following along the path of the Big One. Life in nature abounds the roadside: you see small fields of marshes go by, with mountains of Maples, Alders, and Douglas Firs, while the migratory birds are flocking here and there.
As the sun sets into the Pacific, the Siuslaw glows with embers burning from the ancestral torch that has blessed this land.
Nothing can be taken for granted, though times have changed, people and places have been rearranged, this place is our space to steward and protect, what that all means, we are still coming to an understanding, but for now, we can enjoy the highway that follows along the Siuslaw River from sunrise to sunset, Our Beloved, Scenic Highway 126, Mapleton to Florence, It sure is a beautiful journey.
TF Walker Mapleton
Opener
Siuslaw wins season opener, 22-14
From Page A1
by Justin Allen and a fumble recovery by Deegan Smith. Smith had two fumble recoveries in the game.
SCORING:
SIUSLAW 8 0 8 6 22
First quarter
Siuslaw — Bryce Franzoni
51-yard pass from Micah Blankenship (Will Johnson run), 2:34
Second quarter
Marshfield — Jaden Tice
10-yard pass from Enoch
Niblett (Jaden Tice run), 5:23
Third quarter
Siuslaw — Will Johnson
1-yard run (Mike Blankenship run), 9:39
Fourth quarter
Siuslaw — Max Reynolds
3-yard run (run failed), 1:40
Marshfeld — Jaden Tice
20-yard pass from Enoch
Niblett (no try)
fperea@countrymedia.net
Amanda Boulware | Office Manager snofficemanager@countrymedia.net
Jeanna Petersen | Senior Sales Consultant 541.902.3529 | jpetersen@countrymedia.net Tony Reed | Editor 541.902.3526
Charter
School Board ratifies charter contract
From Page A1
Scam
Don’t get scammed, just hang up
From Page A1
being able to meet the deadline to get everything done by the time without a building, without a head of school, and that sort of thing.” She called it concerning that the board and staff have put hundreds of hours into the
My calls were then referred to the Consumer Protection Agency.
The Agency knows about such calls but representatives say many of them originate from outside the United
ELEVEN MONTHS IN THE SHELTER
Lindsay
COAST HUMANE SOCIETY 2840 Rhododendron Drive • Florence •
Sponored
process and will be dedicating more without a guarantee that SVCS will be able to meet the necessary deadlines.
Following the 6/1 vote, Grzeskowiak said amended discussion points will be added to the agreement text
States and are made through the internet, making them untraceable.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have enough information to connect these calls to their true source,” a message said. “The operations making these calls are ignoring the ‘do not call’ law and since this is a
by Friday, two days after the meeting.
The following morning, Grzeskowiak said SHCS will now need to confirm the number of interested students and parents, determine class sizes and hire a head of schools.
nationwide, if not worldwide problem, the Federal Trade Commission is actively involved. The FTC has already filed many lawsuits and more are expected.”
The CPA suggests not answering unrecognized calls. If you feel you must, but then
“From there, it’s a matter of securing their facility, their head of schools and building out their staff from there,” he said. “Their target date to open is still September of 2025, next school year and once they have their
realize it’s a scam, hang up without pressing any numbers.
Locally speaking
Florence Police Chief John
Pitcher said there have been instances where scammers have looked up information about his department online, and have called Florence
enrollment confirmed, that gives them a budget and they have to finish their budget and curriculum, staff training and other things to be operational by that date.”
residents pretending to be a particular FPD officer.
“Then the demand is always that they send money or they’ll be arrested,” he said. “Florence Police will never do that- never.” Pitcher suggested that upon receiving a suspicious call from anyone claiming to be with Florence police, hang up and call 541997-3515 and get the correct information directly from an officer there.
Pitcher noted that with call encryption, internet calls and signals pinged off many sources, it’s essentially impossible now for officers to locate the source and make an arrest.
“But what we can do is keep people from being taken advantage of in the first place,” he said.
Clues they use against you
Through thousands of calls, scammers have honed deception to an art and are able to gain critical information, often without the victim realizing it.
A common fraud that targets the elderly is the distress scam, where a barely audible voice in a noisy atmosphere will claim to be a grandchild who has crashed a car, was left in another city, or has had some trouble with police. In my career, I’ve interviewed five elderly people who have been tricked by this type of call, only because their
New Mobi-mat Installed in Florence at Heceta Beach Park
ASSOCIATION
Labor Day weekend marked another milestone for accessibility on the Oregon Coast with the installation of a new Mobi-mat at Heceta Beach Park in Florence. This is the second Mobi-mat to be installed on the coast this summer as part of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association’s (OCVA) Strategic Investment Fund, which has been dedicated to the purchase and installation of Mobi-mats coast-wide.
Mobi-Mats are portable, weather-resistant pathways that enable people with
mobility challenges to navigate uneven terrain, such as beaches, with greater ease. The installation of these mats empowers both residents and visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the beauty of the Oregon Coast. Florence joins Gold Beach as OCVA funding recipients, and joins Lincoln City, Seaside, Beverly Beach State Park, and Gold Beach as one of the growing number of accessible beach locations on the Oregon Coast.
The addition of the MobiMats and David’s Chair at Heceta Beach, along with Wheel the World assessments for lodging, positions Florence as a leader in furthering
“Grandma, can you hear me? It’s Alice…Hello, are you still there?” the voice will respond.
Some intended victims will wonder if the call is legitimate and ask, “Alice, is that you?”
Sometimes, that response will be enough to instill trust and get the victim to send
accessibility initiatives along the coast. The timing of this installation could not have been better, as the Mobi-Mat saw lots of traffic over the busy Labor Day weekend and received an outpouring of public support on social media, with the announcement post receiving over 170,000 impressions.
120 feet of mobility mats (6’ wide) were installed at Heceta Beach County Park, just adjacent to the Driftwood Shores Resort. The mats are placed along the main pathway from the parking area to the beach.
Lane County Parks headed up the effort to fund and
thousands of dollars to the scammer.
While it may feel difficult to do at the moment, hang up and call the person back at a number you know, not the number that came up on the caller ID. If they do not
install these mats, and Brett Henry, Lane County Parks Division Manager, expressed his gratitude for the support they received: “The Oregon Coast Visitors Association provided the funding for the purchase and delivery of the Mobi-Mats through their Strategic Investment Fund program, and we’re incredibly thankful for their partnership.”
The Oregon Coast Visitors Association looks forward to more Mobi-mats rolling out this summer, and to continuing our mission of enhancing accessibility across the region, making the coast more welcoming and inclusive for everyone.
answer, try calling a common family member or friend to confirm their last known location or contact them directly.
Under no circumstances should you give any account information or ever send money via Western Union, direct transfer or gift card.
If you didn’t buy it, don’t
Another common phone fraud starts as an emailed Amazon or Ebay receipt, usually for an item like a tablet, laptop or smartphone.
Upon calling the number on the (fake) email receipt, the victim will be told they have a pending charge through a fictional bank. The scammer will then use subtle tricks to get people to divulge information.
“Mr. Smith, this $559 charge has your name and social security number on a bank account with First Union Trust Bank…”
“I don’t use that, bank, I use Wells Fargo,” the victim might reply.
“First Union and Wells Fargo are basically the same since the merger,” the scammer may lie, based on the victim’s admission. “Let me transfer you to Wells Fargo’s direct line…” After a pause, the victim will hear a new voice saying, “Wells Fargo
dispute resolution, is this Mr. Smith? We’re sure that’s a scam and we can void that $599 charge if you can just confirm a few things for us.”
Thinking they are on the line with their bank, the victim may then “confirm” their account number, balance and even answers to security questions, making it possible for the scammers to drain and lock their accounts.
If you hadn’t guessed, the original $599 charge was a red herring, designed to distract the victim into later giving information that could cost them much more.
Scammers may also warn the victim not to tell anyone about the conversation until they have identified where the false charge originated. The direction to “not tell anyone” is a way to hide their crime while deleting any digital evidence of it.
What they all want I could write about different tricks at length, but what they all have in common, from romance scams to ID theft, to catfishing to copycat government calls is that at some point, the scammer will demand money.
“I say all the time that if anyone calls and wants money immediately, it’s a scam,”
Chief Pitcher said, adding that no government agency will call to demand money, especially in the form of a wire transfer, gift card or money order.
The minute they ask for money or financial information, hang up. Then call or visit your bank directly, change your passwords and have them go though your records looking for any suspicious transactions.
The [CPA] office strongly encourages the public to remain vigilant and not to provide personal information during these calls, which appear to target the elderly,” according to the Office of the US Attorney General. “The office also encourages family members to alert their elderly relatives about this scam.” Elder Justice Coordinator Shira Hoffman says, “Phone scams are pervasive and increasingly sophisticated. The best way to protect yourself is not to share personal or financial information in response to unsolicited phone calls.”
Who to call Report fraud online to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov or ftc.gov/ complaint. The FTC enters reports into a secure database used by law enforcement authorities. You can also report to Oregon Department of Justice, file a complaint online or call the Consumer Hotline at (877) 877-9392. The hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also email the hotline at help@oregonconsumer.gov. Through the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, one can report a compromised bank or credit account by calling (888) 8774894 or emailing dfr.financialserviceshelp@oregon.gov. The Federal Trade Commission has more information to keep citizens informed about phone scams, how to spot them and new alerts. Go to www.ftc.gov and enter “phone scams” in the search window.
Credit classes starting soon at LCC’s Florence Center
This fall term, Lane Community College Florence Center is offering a variety of face-to-face classes for credit students. Following the temporary move to remote learning caused by COVID and a multimillion-dollar renovation, LCC’s Florence Center is excited to welcome students back on site with classes that include Biology, Communications, World History, Math, Psychology and Writing. Also available is an online first-year Spanish class with three scheduled on-site meetings in Florence during the term. For those students not quite ready for college-level classes, we will also offer an on-site GED-prep class. For more information on how to get started, visit http:// www.lanecc.edu, phone 541.463.4800 or stop by the Florence Center at 3149 Oak Street. Classes start Sept. 30th. We hope to see you this fall!
Siuslaw Public Library Invites
Artists to Participate in Hang It All Free Community
Show
Siuslaw Public Library
Invites Artists to Participate in Hang It All Free Community Show
The Siuslaw Public Library District’s art display committee issues a call for artists to participate in Hang It All!, the library’s biennial free community art show to take place in October.
Artists of all ages and abilities are invited to submit one piece for the show:
• Work can be in any media, including paint, pencil, photography, wood, clay, textiles, etc.
• 2D work should be framed, wired, and ready to hang, and cannot exceed 38” in any direction.
• 3D work can be any
Community Briefs
exceed 12” across by 24” high by 12” deep.
An open art drop-off will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 9 to 11 a.m. at the library. All works will be displayed at the library for the month of October. Art may be picked up on Thursday, Oct. 31, 9 to 11 a.m.
During the October show, community members are encouraged to vote for their favorite pieces. The People’s Choice Award will be announced at the conclusion of the show, as well as the Bob Kutsch Award selected by the art display committee. For additional information, visit siuslawlibrary.info/art or call 541-997-3132.
School safety tip line
SafeOregon and the Oregon State Police remind students, parents, school staff, and community members that everyone plays a role in school safety. SafeOregon is a school safety tip line to report potential threats against students and schools confidentially or anonymously.
SafeOregon asks that if you see or hear something concerning to let someone know. Tips may be submitted 24 hours per day, 7 days per week:
• Call or text: 844-472-3367
• Email: tip@safeoregon. com
• Website: www.safeoregon.
com
• Download the mobile app
All tips are immediately received by a tip line technician and are forwarded to designated school personnel or law enforcement to respond to reported incidents.
SafeOregon receives tips focused on school safety, including:
• Safety threats
• Violence or threats of violence
• Fights
• Drugs, alcohol, or weapons on campus
• Bullying, harassment, or intimidation
• Cyberbullying
• Friends or peers discussing self-harm or suicide
Call 911 for situations requiring an immediate emergency response. It is a violation of Oregon law to make false reports to SafeOregon. For more information about SafeOregon, visit our website at safeoregon.com
Yard Debris
Disposal days
Yard debris collection is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 27th Street entrance to the airport at Kingwood and 27th Street on Sept. 21. The City of Florence yard debris disposal day will continue through October, weather permitting. The next disposal day is Oct. 19. Bring your yard debris to the Kingwood entrance of the airport Adele from 9:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. on collection days which will be the third Saturday of each month. a standard pickup truck or utility trailer has $15, a medium utility trailer 10 to 12 ft in length is $20, a large utility trailer of up to 18 ft in length is $25, and anything over 25 cubic yards is $25 + $9 for each additional cubic yard. Bring your tree tree clippings, grass clippings, leaves, weeds, prunings, and brush.
Do not bring stumps, food, household waste, animal waste, plastics, construction debris, Rock dirt or soil or hazardous waste. Scotch broom cannot be accepted after the June due to the possible spread of seeds. For more information, contact public works at 541-997-4106 FloGro here
The City of Florence is excited to announce that FloGro is back in stock! It will be available Tuesdays as well as during our Yard Debris Disposal on Saturday, September 21. Come pick up yours at Florence Public Works, 2675 Kingwood Street.
FloGro is a Class A biosolids product produced through a composting process that combines chipped
debris with biosolids. The end result is a sustainable compost supply for our community. Full details on FloGro are available at https://www ci.florence.or.us/publicworks/ flogro-it-makes-flowers-grow.
OLD D SCHOO
Sweet Dreams: The 2023 Holly Jolly Follies
Nothing kicks off the holiday season quite like C.R.O.W.’s production of The Holly Jolly Follies. This year’s Follies will be presented at the Florence Events Center December 6, 7, and 8.
Director and playwright
Melanie Heard has created an enchanting script entitled “Sweet Dreams: A North Pole Nutcracker.” The show is loosely based on the beloved classical ballet’s story, but according to Heard is “Not your grandma’s Nutcracker!” Heard danced in the traditional Nutcracker for eight years, portraying every role from a dancing Mirliton, to a demi-soloist Waltz of the Flowers dancer, to a party-goer to a soldier chasing rats around. “The Nutcracker is forever a part of my heart,” she says. “But this show is quite a spin on the classic favorite.”
Several familiar characters will return, including adorable Sparkle Elf. Sparkle was cast as “Clara” in the North Pole’s Nutcracker, but Santa and Mrs. Claus have had her running around so much that she’s become totally exhausted! During a Nutcracker rehearsal, she falls asleep and is whisked away to a magical dream world where she encounters bizarre,
mystical, and fantastical creatures. She also meets a handsome Prince who teaches her the power of friendship. Sparkle learns that being present for the little things in
life is perhaps one of the most beautiful gifts of all.
This year’s Follies will feature musical direction by Maree Beers, associate direction by Genevieve Shahan, plus many other talented volunteers and performers.
As always, there will be delightful variety act style performances, intermixed throughout. These will include the Flight Dance Team, several beautiful vocalists, various aged tappers, hip-hoppers, and belly
dancers, C.R.O.W.’s ballet and contemporary dance class performances, a commercial spoof, The Sugarplum Fairy variation, live music, the Dance Moms, and of course….the World Famous Tutu Dads - who will waltz their way across the stage like never-before-seen vivacious blooms.
Ticket sales from the Follies support C.R.O.W.’s free and low-cost arts programming, including scholarships for youth, educational materials, and production
Albatross Records
costs for the non-profit’s Spring mainstage production (Matilda The Musical), which will hold open auditions in January, 2025 The Follies is a family friendly event, and also features a lobby boutique with treats and surprises, and a concession stand provided by the Events Center. There will be collection bins in the lobby to benefit Florence Food Share, so please consider bringing food donations when you attend the show. For tickets to The 2024 Holly Jolly Follies, visit the Florence Events Center website at www.eventcenter.org, or call 541-997-1994 Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for kids 12 and younger. Military can receive an in-person discount at the box office window of $2 off. Showtimes are Friday at 7 pm, Saturday at 7 pm, and Sunday at 2
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
Six Cheerleaders make All-American Cheer Team
After a USA Varsity Home Camp, six of 11 Siuslaw Cheer Team cheerleaders were chosen to go to the AllAmerican Cheer Team.
“During the camp we learn material and cheers to perform at our football games, said Ashlyn Hart, a 4th-time All American Cheerleader.
“The camp was Saturday and Sunday with seven hours each day. Overall our whole team made the Superior Award for our assessment at the end of camp. With special shoutouts to Olivia Moore and Emma Erwin for earning the spirit stick each day.”
Hart explained that at the end of the camp, each cheerleader had the opportunity to try out for the All American Award. The award is judged for and presented by a USA Varsity Staff member. Hart said the number of cheerleaders chosen marks a record for the team.
Along with Senior Captain Hart, this years All American Award recipients were Claire Lindell - Senior, Captain,
2nd time All American Cheerleader; Abby Riggs - Senior; Rose Armstrong - Junior; Sylvia HandJunior and Emma Erwin - Sophomore.
“I’m so surprised and incredibly grateful for this experience and upcoming opportunity,” Hand said.
“This year we have the opportunity to pick from many trips including, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, Honolulu Hawaii, Orlando Florida, London England, and Rome Italy,” Hart said Last January Claire Lindell and Ashlyn Hart traveled to London England to cheer in the London New Years Parade as an All American and to represent Siuslaw on an international level.”
“I have already been so blessed with opportunities this year with cheer, so I can’t wait to see where this one goes!” Lindell said.
Riggs said, “This is an opportunity I wasn’t expecting as it is my first year cheerleading,” adding that she’s
excited to see where it takes her.
“I am so proud of all the girls who tried out and to the girls who were awarded! Under our new coaching, this season has been one of growth and I am thrilled to see all the things we will accomplish this year,” Hart said.”The community should expect a truly positive effect from this year’s cheerleaders. I am so grateful for receiving this award again and I know all the amazing things that can come from it!”
“I’m so excited for this huge opportunity and even more excited that I get to experience it with these girls. I am so incredibly grateful and proud of each one of them!” Irwin said.
According to Hart, the girls are still deciding what trip we would like to go to and are excited to share their experience with the community.
She said she’s grateful for the support and great feedback she’s been receiving from the community since the season opener football game Sept. 6
TONY REED PHOTOS
welcomes
– SES Aide
Josh Haberly, Kady Sneddon, John Barnett, Tamara Cole, Dianna Pimlott Florence Community PTA –Diane McCalmont
of Service
Bunner
30 Years of Dedicated Service Tyrah Forbes – SMS Lead Custodian New Staff for 202425 2024-2025
• Andrew Grzeskowiak, District Services
• Brent Chipps, Permanent Sub Bus Driver
• Dave Twombly, Bus Driver
• Robin Harrison, Food Service Worker
• Jacquie Carr, Food Service Worker
• Kristy Catalfamo, Food Service Worker
• Tony Baker, Bus Mechanic
• Lisa Utz, Director of Special Programs and Services
• Christina Johnson, Speech Pathologist
Siuslaw High School
• Mike Harklerode, Principal
• Tony Martins, Assistant Principal
• Cyndi Bishop, SPED Life Skills Aide
• John Laird, Custodian 1
• Derrick Carlton, Custodian 1
• Spencer Lake, Govt/Econ Teacher
• Sarah Ruzicka, World History Teacher
• Karen Nichols, Spanish Teacher
• Brent Nichols, Credit Recovery Teacher
• Tony Martins, Assistant Principal
• Jessica Lane, SpEd Resource Teacher
Siuslaw Middle School
• Andy Marhol, Principal
• Ron Frakes, Assistant Principal
• Alex Lopez, Educational Aide
• David Johnston, SMS/SHS Choir Teacher
• Mike Bidwell, Custodian 1
Siuslaw Elementary School
• Amy Flora, Principal
• Leonard Ulrich, Assistant Principal
• Shelby Keene, Educational Aide
• Memphis Gliewe, Educational Aide
• Julie Carso, Educational Aide
• Jill Chantland, Library Aide
• Cynthia Parker, Educational Aide
• Emily Frisby, Custodian 1
• Hester Grove, Secretary
• Ellen Orton, Kindergarten Teacher
• Alyssa Bennett, 1st Grade Teacher
• Jack Risling, 5th Grade Teacher
• Courtney King, PE Teacher
• Donald Morales, 1st Grade Teacher
• Joni Sherman, Counselor
• Kaitlin Federman, 4th Grade Teacher
• Erika Gibson, Kindergarten Teacher
Classified
Must have good driving record and resume with work references. 541.997.9172 cpwinc27@gmail.com
R2002 Mazda 165,000 Miles Florence shop records. $2,000. 5413051146
Crafting/Scrapbooking Supply Sale! 88332
2nd
offers beautiful furnishings, home decor, garage with tools, plus so much more! We are filled to the brim!
For Sale - Golden Fire Premium Ultra Pellets 27 bags - Paid 7.50 ea - Sell 5.00 ea. You load-Must buy all-Cash Only. 541.999.0704
Roommates Wanted No kids or pets. 541.991.9032
SLN24-3029 Notice is hereby given that the Florence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in person and via videoconference on September 24, 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: PC 24 35 DR 11 - Heceta Mobile Home Park Expansion Dennis Elmer, Land Use Resources, LLC, applied for Design review of an existing mobile home parks new site amenities to include adding 7 additional recreational vehicle spaces, stormwater system, parking lot, access drive and lighting. This project is to be located 87675 Hwy 101, 279’ southeast of the intersection of Heceta Beach Rd and Hwy 101, Assessor’s Map 18-12-11-33, Tax Lot 00800, in the Service Industrial District regulated by Florence City code Title 10 Chapter 31. 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 videoconference call must submit a speaker’s card at www.ci.florence.or.us/ bc-pc/request-address-planning-commission-speakers-card by 3:30PM on September 24, 2024. Testimo-
ny 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.
Address: 4969 Hwy. 101,
VIRGO -Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, while others may want the spotlight, you are content to work behind the scenes for the time being. There is nothing wrong with being a supporting character.
LIBRA -Sept 23/Oct 23
Take a few moments this week to go over spending, as you may determine that you have to reel in your budget a little more than you had expected, Libra.
SCORPIO -Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, family responsibilities may continue to weigh you down a bit more than usual, leaving little time for romance. Try to make time when you can.
SAGITTARIUS -Nov 23/Dec 21
You are interested in changing your living space in the days to come, and redecorating is at the top of the list, Sagittarius. Find out ways you can do it without breaking the bank.
CAPRICORN -Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you may be holding back on conversations for fear of not getting the answers you desire. Everything won’t go your way, but failing to act is not the way to go.
AQUARIUS -Jan 21/Feb 18
You are ready to make some solid choices for your family and future, Aquarius. They may not align with what others feel is necessary, but stay true to your beliefs and needs.
PISCES -Feb 19/Mar 20
While you are prone to giving all of your energy away to others most of the time, this week you focus mostly on you, Pisces. It’s a welcomed change that you deserve.
GEMINI -May 22/Jun 21
Right now your to-do list is very small, which means you have loads of free time for recreational activities if you choose. Otherwise, you can simply bask in having nothing to do.
ARIES -Mar 21/Apr 20
Your compassion takes you many places, Aries. This week you may be compelled to reach out and do more volunteer work for a nonprofit that you hold dear.
TAURUS -Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, your friends need you to be steady this week, and that’s just what you will give them. You like being in a leadership role and someone others can depend on.
CANCER -Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you are in a frame of mind to learn some new skills, and this is just the week to get started. Begin slowly with a hobby or something that interests you.
LEO Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, it can be challenging to remain lowkey when others are excited all around you, but you must be serious with this new venture you are considering. There will be time
OLIVE
By Emi Burdge
