2023 Rhododendron Festival

Where happy memories have been made for almost fifty years. Every room is oceanfront. Suites with full kitchens. Full-service venue for weddings and events. New to the property is The Market at Driftwood Shores with provisions, coffee/wine/beer station, and oceanfront seating. Doggie friendly rooms too!

Time for ‘Rip Roarin Rhodies’ at the 116th Rhododendron Festival

Thethird weekend in May will be here soon and that means it’s time for the 116th Florence Rhododendron Festival, May 18-21, 2023.

Our Rhododendrons, that thrive along the Oregon Coast, are of course the stars of the Festival and we celebrate their beauty.

The spectacular display of hundreds of Rhododendrons takes

place at the Florence Events Center at the Siuslaw Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society’s Rhododendron Days Flower Show. The show goes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21. Enjoy the Street Vendor Fair on Maple Street Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

‘Rip, Roarin’ Rhodies’ is this year’s festival theme and the hot rods will be roaring behind on Saturday, behind Siuslaw Middle School, where you will find the Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Car Show and Shine.

Don’t forget the 5/10K Rhody Run, Davis Shows Carnival and many, many more surprises.

Finally, on Sunday, the 116th Rhododendron Floral Parade starts at noon.

The festival officially begins with the Rhody Showcase to

crown “Queen Rhododendra” and “King of the Coast” Saturday May 13th.

While you are in the area, be sure to visit our fabulous shops, restaurants and the many adventures found only in Florence.

The Florence Rhododendron Festival is the second-oldest flower festival in Oregon and third oldest on the West Coast and is just one year younger than the Portland Rose Festival.

Rhododendron Festival Schedule of Events

SATURDAY, MAY 13

RHODY COURT CORONATION

Begins at 6:30 p.m.

Florence Events Center

ONE YOUNG WOMAN AND ONE YOUNG MAN WILL BE CROWNED THE 2023 QUENN RHODODENDRA AND KING OF THE COAST

THURSDAY, MAY 18

DAVIS SHOWS CARNIVAL

3 p.m. - Closing (10 or 11 p.m., may vary)

Port of Siuslaw Parking Lot

FRIDAY, MAY 19

RHODODENDRON QUILT GUILD’S QUILT SHOW

10 :30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Old School Furniture on 6th at Highway 101

DAVIS SHOWS CARNIVAL

12 p.m. - Closing (10 or 11 p.m., may vary)

Port of Siuslaw Parking Lot

MAPLE STREET OLD TOWN VENDOR FAIR

1 - 5 p.m.

Maple Street Between Bay and 1st Streets

LIVE MUSIC “CODE RED”

8 p.m. - Midnight

Blue Bills at Three Rivers Casino

SATURDAY, MAY 20

RHODY RUN 5-K OR 10K RUN/WALK

Registration at 7:30 a.m., race at 9 a.m. Florence Events Center

HOT RODS AND HOT CAKES PANCAKE BREAKFAST

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Siuslaw Middle School BENEFITTING SIUSLAW VIKING’S TRAP TEAM

28TH ANNUAL RHODY DAYS CAR SHOW & SHINE

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Siuslaw Middle School INFO AT RODSNRHODIES.ORG

10TH ANNUAL RHODY DAYS ARTS FESTIVAL

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Florence Events Center

RHDODENDRON SHOW AND SALE

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Florence Events Center

AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY’S SIUSLAW CHAPER

MAPLE STREET OLD TOWN

VENDOR FAIR

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Maple Street Between Bay and 1st Streets

RHODODENDRON QUILT GUILD’S QUILT SHOW

10

:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Old School Furniture on 6th at Highway 101

JUNIOR PARADE

Staging at 11 a.m. Parade at 12 a.m. Miller Park

SPONSORED BY SIUSLAW FIRE AND RESCUE

KIWANIS KIDS GAMES

Immediately following Junior Parade

Siuslaw High School at the Athletic Fields

CHICKEN BARBEQUE - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

ELKS Lodge #1858, 1686 12th St.

DAVIS SHOWS CARNIVAL

11 a.m. - Closing (10 or 11 p.m., may vary)

Port of Siuslaw Parking Lot

RHODY MOSEY

Registration from 4 - 5 p.m. Staging on Bay Street and Kingwood, the grassy area next to the Veterans park

MOSEIERS WILL STRUT THEIR STUFF DOWN BAY STREET. PRIZES FOR BEST COSTUMES, SASSIEST STRUTTER AND JUDGES CHOICES. INFO AT FLORENCEHABITAT.ORG/EVENTS

SHOW & SHINE CAR CRUISE

Begins at 6 p.m. Bay Street - Old Town

LIVE MUSIC “CODE RED”

8 p.m. - Midnight

Blue Bills at Three Rivers Casino

SUNDAY, MAY 21

RHODY DAY PUBLIC BREAKFAST

7 - 11 a.m.

ELKS Lodge #1858, 1686 12th St.

RHDODENDRON SHOW AND SALE

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Florence Events Center

AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY’S SIUSLAW CHAPER

10TH ANNUAL RHODY DAYS ARTS FESTIVAL

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Florence Events Center

DAVIS SHOWS CARNIVAL

12 - 11 p.m.

Port of Siuslaw Parking Lot

116TH ANNUAL RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL GRAND FLORAL PARADE

Radio Broadcast begins at 11:45 a.m. on KCST FM 106.9 Parade begins at 12 p.m.

ROUTE: HIGHWAY 101, FROM 27TH ST., MOVING SOUTH TO OLD TOWN, THEN EAST VIA KINGWOOD AND BAY ST

Where can I park during Rhody Days?

Finding parking during Rhody Days can be stressful, but with a bit of planning it doesn’t have to be! Below are some parking options you can utilize during Rhody Days so you and your loved ones can spend as much time as possible enjoying the festivities.

FLORENCE EVENTS CENTER PARKING LOT

Not many people know that the Florence Events Center (FEC) leaves its southern parking lot open during Rhody Days. From the parking lot it is only a few short blocks to Bay Street, and no time limits or fees to park. The FEC is located at 715 Quince Street.

ON STREET PARKING ON BAY STREET

On Street Parking on Bay Street: If you’re just heading to Bay Street to visit one of its wonderful shops and restaurants consider On Street Parking as an option. While some portions of the street may be blocked off for Rhody Days activities, you might get lucky and snag a spot close to your destination.

1150 BAY STREET

The parking lot is free and easy, with quick walking access to all of Bay street and the Port parking lot. This lot is located at the west end of Bay Street between the Veteran’s Memorial Park and Juniper Street.

RESTROOMS

Worried about finding a bathroom on Bay Street? There are public restrooms located between Mo’s and All About Olives, toward the north side of Bay Street. Specifically, the public restrooms are located between 1384 and 1436 Bay Street.

Roarin’ Rhody Royalty

“They’ll be expecting to bond close to each other and meet new people and help out in the community,” 2022 Queen Rhdodendra haylee Cole said on what this year’s Senior and Junior Court has in store for them as they prepare for the 116th Rhododendron Court Coronation.

This year’s Rhododendron festival Coronation will be held the Saturday before Rhody weekend on May the 13th, 2023. Ten outstanding seniors from Siuslaw and Mapleton High Schools will be competing for Queen Rhododendra and King of the Coast.

On Coronation Night, join Masters of Ceremonies Matt Templeman, KEZI evening news anchor, and Melanie Heard, director of CROW, as they cheer on one young woman and one young man who will be crowned 2023 Queen Rhododendra and King of the Coast. The exciting evening will be a showcase of talents, entertainment, and performances.

But to get to that point, the court has to accomplish a host of volunteering activities in the community, from speaking engagements at a host of civic and governemtnal organizations.

“We also did etiquette classes and speech classes to learn to talk in front of a crowd, because that’s what we did at almost every single event we went to,” Cole said.

To discover what the current court’s experience has been, the committee had each member fill out a questionaire on a variety of topics, from why they joined the court to their favorite experiences.

SUNSHINE ARMER SIUSLAW

Sunshine Armer is an experienced member of the Rhody Court, having previously served on the Junior Court.

She decided to apply to the Rhody Court to be involved in the community and because she looked up to the senior court when she was a Junior Court member.

“I was on the Jr. Court my fifth grade year, and I really looked up to the Senior Court,” she said.

During her time on the court, Sunshine says she and the rest of the court have participated in a lot of work around the community but she enjoyed the Rotary Auction the most.

She is proud of the role model she has been for young children in the community - esspecially Jasmine, the Junior Princess she is mentoring.

“She is such a mini me. I absolutely adore her,” Shunshine said. “She is the sweetest thing ever. I am truly blessed to have her as my Junior Princess.”

In addition to being a Princess,

Sunshine works at Dutch Bros., plays softball, and enjoys hiking.

After high school, Sunshine plans to attend Lane Community College to pursue a career in dental hygiene.

Sunshine’s biggest role model is her grandmother Bonnie. Her grandfather, Jack Armer, is her escort for the coronation.

ERYN MORGAN SIUSLAW

Eryn Morgan joined the Rhody Court to gain experience with children and have the opportunity to perform.

“We have got to do amazing things I wouldn’t have got the opportunity to do otherwise,” she said of her time on the court.

She is proud to have improved her public speaking skills during her time on the court. Eryn has mentored Junior Princess Jasmine Quinn and enjoys spending time with her.

When she’s not a princess, Eryn is a member of C.R.O.W. and loves dancing and acting.

Her list of role models is long

but her Grandpa Jerry and her Grandma Nancy are at or near the top of the list.

Eryn plans to obtain a degree in special education after high school. Her big brother Raven is her escort for the coronation.

LUCIAN MURPHY SIUSLAW

Lucian Murphy decided to apply for the Rhody Court after hearing about the wonderful experiences past courts have had, wanting to broaden his social skills and to gain more experiences.

“Being on the Rhody Court had been an amazing experience from beginning to end,” he said. “I have learned and experienced so many things that I would have missed out on had I not applied.”

Lucian is most proud of his increasing ability to publicly speak, which he never imagined he could do before joining the court. He has mentored Junior Princess Lincoln Moffett and finds it a lot of fun. Lucian enjoys hanging out with friends when he’s not be-

- Junior Princesses Emerie Decker, Abigail Mills Lincoln Moffet, Jasmine Quinn and Savanna Scully.

ing a Rhody Prince.

“My role model over the past couple of years has been my wonderful wrestling coach and English teacher Mr. Wartnik,” Lucian said.

“He has taught me many great lessons, both in the classroom and on the mat. The most important lesson he taught me was how to use grit.”

After high school, Lucian plans to attend the University of Oregon with friends to obtain a degree in computer sciences and technology.

His escort for the coronation is his mother.

IAN SISSEL SIUSLAW

Ian Sissel decided to join the Rhody Court in hopes of being heavily involved in the community during the town’s biggest event of the year.

Being on the court has been busy but fun, allowing him to improve his public speaking skills and learn more about the inner workings of Rhody Days.

Ian’s proudest accomplishment while on the court is his improvement in interpersonal skills.

He has mentored Junior Princess Savannah Scully and plans on spending more time with her after his college visits.

“Savannah is really shy but also very sweet,” Iam said. “It has been really cool to be her mentor.”

Ian loves sports and can often be found playing or umpiring baseball during the Spring.

He works at Big Dog Donuts and Deli, plays the piano, reads, watches movies, and loves playing games with his friends and family. He also enjoys going to the river and lake.

Ian’s role model is his mom, Suzy Barstow.

“When my dad was overseas, serving in the Army, my mom was basically a single parent raising two very young children with a very demanding job,” Ian said. “My mom has always been there for my whole family.”

See COURT page 7

CORONATION INFO

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, THE EVENT WILL BE HELD THE WEEKEND BEFORE RHODY DAYS

Coronation will be held on Saturday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets, which are $15, plus a FEC processing fee. Tickets available at FEC, 715 Quince St. in Florence. They can also be found online at www.eventcenter.org, or by calling 541-997-1994.

Pictured: The full Rhody Court enjoying a day on the beach. From left to right, top row - Princes Alex Goss, Tristan Stewart, Lucian Murphy, Caleb Lewis and Ian Sissel; Middle row - Princesses Sunshine Armer, Mary Jo Fontenot, Gillian Norton, Eryn Morgan and Michaela Butchart; Bottom row

COURT from page 6

GILLIAN NORTON SIUSLAW

“I was born and raised here and have very many memories of Rhody Days like the carnival, the food and the parade. Seeing my sister on the Rhody Court last year, I knew I wanted to be part of the experience and traditions,” Gillian Norton said when asked why she applied. “This adventure is something I’ll never forget.”

While on the Court, she has been able to meet many supportive people, learn how to write speeches, and gain confidence in her stage presence.

Her proudest achievement is being able to get up in front of a large crowd of people, while mentoring her Junior Princess, Lincoln, has been her favorite part.

She bonded with Prince Lucian and I from the start,” Gillian said. “When we all go on outings together, we always have so much fun. She is a little ray of sunshine and I’m so happy she is my Junior Princess.”

When she’s not a princess, she loves to cheer on her school’s football team and play basketball.

Her role models are her family, who have taught her that anything is possible with time and effort.

After high school, she plans to attend Western Oregon University to major in health and exercise science and continue cheering.

Her escort in the Coronation is her dad, Mike Norton.

ALEX GOSS SIUSLAW

Alex Goss applied to the Rhody Court program after watching his sister become Queen in 2018.

“I got to hear all of her great stories from being a part of the court and I loved watching the coronation,” he said. “I knew that it was something I would have fun with while also putting me outside of my comfort zone, pushing me to grow.”

Being a part of the court has allowed him to grow his confidence and public speaking skills, and he has made new friends while having fun.

When he is not a Rhody Prince, Goss likes to learn new things,

such as hobbies, instruments, and games, and spend time with his friends.

He looks up to his sister as his role model, who has been a constant source of inspiration and encouragement for him.

“She has achieved incredible things and always encourages me to strive for greatness too,” Alex said. “It is safe to say I wouldn’t be

“My role model is my grandpa, who was born in Mexico and eventually came to America with very little,” Caleb said. “But he got his GED and became a mechanic.”

MARY JO FONTENOT SIUSLAW

Mary Jo Fontenot joined the Rhody Court to become more involved in her community.

has been awesome. She can be shy sometimes, so it’s been fun working with her to overcome that. I’m a tutor so I love helping people succeed.

My role model is my nanny. She’s always there to help and support me anyway she can.

After high school, I plan on attending college to get my teaching degree.

She is passionate about dance and baking.

She has enjoyed mentoring her junior princess.

Michaela plans to take online college courses to earn a degree in hospitality.

“My role model is my mom because she’s a great baker, great with animals (especially horses) and she’s been dealing with teenagers for almost 35 years because of youth ministry - and still isn’t bitter,” Michaela said.

She is very proud of the talent she will perform, as it’s her first ever solo and in a style of dance she’s never done. Her father Gary Butchart will be her escort at the coronation.

TRISTAN STEWART MAPLETON

A friend of mine said that he was going to do it, and I said ‘I want to one up you and beat you,’” Tristan Stewart said when asked why he joined the court. “So then I applied for the court and here I am now.”

where I am today without her influence. “

Goss is deciding between attending the Honors College at the University of Oregon or Oregon State University for either Business or Engineering after high school.

His escort in the Rhody Court Coronation was his mother, Trisha Holden.

CALEB LEWIS MAPLETON

Caleb Lewis joined the Rhody Court to broaden his experience and represent Mapleton.

Being a member of the Rhody Court has been fun and exciting for him, as he has gotten to meet new people and work on his public speaking skills.

Lewis was a mentor to a junior princess during the Rhody Court program but he has not been able to attend many events with his junior princess. He does love getting the opportunity to help teach and produce a healthy learning environment for kids.

After high school Lewis plans to work and begin classes to major in business, political science or prelaw.

“With the four years I’ve lived in Florence, I never really got a chance to spread out into the community,” she said.

Being a part of the Court has helped her to develop real-life skills, such as public speaking, which she is very proud of.

“I’ve really started to come out of my shell,” she said.

Mary Jo enjoys sports, particularly contact sports, and she plans to attend college to become a teacher.

My Junior Princess Abigail is amazing, and working with her

THE 2022 RHODY COURT COMMITTEE

Twelve members of the Siuslaw community are part of the effort to bring this year’s Rhododendron Court - and the entire Florence Area Chamber of Commerce’s Rhododendron Festival - “roaring’ to life. Members (Pictured) include -

Top Row, from left to right: Jennifer Waggoner, Deb Vander Bogart, Haylee Cole, Tamara Cole, Kay King, Alicia Hickson.

Math teacher/Basketball

Coach Aaron McNeill will be escorting her at the Coronation.

MICHAELA BUTCHART SIUSLAW

Michaela Butchart is an aspiring event coordinator who joined the Rhody Court to get more involved in her community.

“....and also have an excuse to wear an evening gown,” she said.

“I love that I get to meet new people and get opportunities I wouldn’t get otherwise.”

He likes to play sports and spend time with friends, and he hopes to pursue higher education after high school.

Tristan’s proudest accomplishment has been working on his improving the talent he will perform.

He has not got the time he has hope thus far to spend with his Junior Princess because he lives in Mapleton.

Tristan’s role model is his father, and his escort for the Coronation is his aunt Jessica.

See JR COURT page 8

Bottom row, from left to right: Jenna Bartlett, Wendy Krause, Timre Smith, Jo Beaudreau.

JR COURT from page 7

SAVANNA SCULLY SIUSLAW, 1ST GRADE

Savanna Scully wanted to become a princess to meet new people. As to what she’s enjoyed on the court, he answer was simple - “Everything.”

Savanna has had fun getting to know her Senior Princess and Prince.

When she is not a princess, Savanna enjoys gymnastics, reading, ballet, and art.

Her career aspiration is to become a waitress.

Savanna’s escort in the Coronation is her mom.

LINCOLN MOFFETT MAPLETON, 2ND GRADE

Lincoln Moffett became a princess on the Rhody Court “because I want to make friends. I have made lots of friends during my time on the court,” she said.

One of the best experiences she has had during her time on the

to know the Senior Princess and Prince.

In her free time, she has a passion for horse riding, playing with friends and her aunt’s snake. She also enjoys playing Minecraft.

Looking to the future, Lincoln dreams of becoming a veterinarian.

Lincoln’s father is the one who will escort her during the Coronation.

EMERIE DECKER HOMESCHOOL, 3RD GRADE

Emerie Decker became a princess “to spread joy and make people smile - and my mom was a princess and a queen,” she said.

One of the best things she has done while on the Rhody Court is ice skating and attending the tea party.

Emerie has enjoyed getting to know her senior princess and prince and feels excited for when she is older.

When she is not a princess, Emerie likes to bake, do crafts, color,

She aspires to become a baker and teach kids to bake in the future.

Emerie’s dad, Adam Decker, is escorting her to the coronation.

JASMINE QUINN SIUSLAW, 4TH GRADE

Jasmine Quinn is glad to be a

She has enjoyed participating in events such as tea parties at Lovejoy’s and ice skating.

She has also formed a close bond with her Senior Princess and Prince, whom she describes as very nice.

Outside of her princess duties, Jasmine enjoys reading, drawing,

At the upcoming Coronation, she will be escorted by her father, Patrick Quinn.

ABIGAIL MILLS SIUSLAW, 5TH GRADE

Abigail Mills’ desire to become a princess was fueled by the opportunity to get closer to the community, make new friends, and build self-confidence.

“The best thing I have done with the Rhody Court was our Sea Lions Cave visit,” Abigail said. “I always wanted to visit. We all had to squeeze in the elevator. I had a lot of fun watching the sea lions.”

Abigail looks up to her Senior Princess Mary Jo Fontenot and Prince Tristan Stewart, who serve as mentors for her.

Outside of her princess duties, Abigail enjoys playing soccer, weightlifting, playing the piano, drawing, writing stories, and going to the beach.

In the future, Abigail hopes to become a Marine Biologist and a part-time artist.

Abigail’s dad will be escorting

Pictured: The Junior Court has fun on the beach. From left to right - Lincoln Moffet, Jasmine Quinn, Abigail Mills, Emerie Decker, and Savanna Scully.

BY SIUSLAW PIONEER MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS

1911 MAYPOLE THEN AND FIRST STREET NOW

The Maypole was one of many activities held during the 1911 Rhododendron Festival. Other activities included the boat parade, carnival, athletic games, horse race, and coronation. The Maypole took place on Main Street which is now called First Street. Once a major thoroughfare, the part of First Street is now a quiet area of Historic Old Town Florence.

SCHOOL PARADE AND MAPLE STREET NOW

The 1912 Rhododendron Day Festival began in Mapleton where the queen lived. She and the royal party traveled by boat to Acme, picked up the Florence band and traveled on to Florence.

School children from all over the Siuslaw region gathered in Florence and, along with the band, paraded from Florence High School to the 1912 Rhododendron Festival grounds. Each group of children proudly represented their school with a school banner.

The children participated in a program of musical numbers, drills, recitations, speeches and ended with a Maypole dance. Other activities included the boat parade, band concert, dance, basketball game and carnival.

Today the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum is housed in the building that was once Florence High School.

"NOW" PHOTOS BY JIM HAYS CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Most festival goers arrived via boat to the early Rhododendron Festivals as there were few roads to the outlying areas. Groups of people would walk from the docks to the Festival grounds in almost a parade like fashion, as pictured.

Today that area has a small park with a gazebo and a business called the Uncommon Collective, a “veritable smorgasbord of creativity, imagination and inspiration.

FESTIVAL STAGE AND THE FLORENCE PLAYHOUSE NOW

Many of the activities of the 1914 Rhododendron Festival took place on a spectacular, rhododendron covered festival stage. The court arrived by boat. Activities included a baseball game, water carnival with decorated floats, a dance, banquet and a clam bake.

Today this same location houses the Florence Playhouse, which is in the midst of a remodel. When done, a dinner theater with a basement bar is planned for the facilities.

BY SIUSLAW PIONEER MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS "NOW" PHOTOS BY JIM HAYS

Happy Rhody Days!

Hours of Service:

Monday thru Thursday 8:00 am to 7:00 pm

The clinic will be expanding services and adding new providers throughout the year. Our services include Primary Care, Counseling, Behavioral Health, Mental Health, and Acupuncture –care for the entire family including Women’s and Pediatrics.

Oregon Integrated Health is accepting new patients and accepting Medicare and Medicaid, including both Trillium and Pacific Source. Oregon Integrated Health accepts most private payers, Motor Vehicle Accident Claims and Workers Compensation Claims.

We look forward to serving you soon!

Rod s N’ Rhodies get locals back roaring on the road

This is the 29th year Florence has had a car show and shine coincide with Rhododendron Festival Weekend. For the second year, local non-profit Rods ‘N’ Rhodies will host its annual Florence Rhody Days Show & Shine behind Siuslaw Middle School, 2525 Oak St., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

At 6 p.m. most of the classic cars from the event will cruise down to Bay Street for the Show & Shine Car Cruise.

Last year over 250 cars entered. This year there will be classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars, trucks, four-wheel drives, Jeeps, VWs and British cars and over

25 award categories for these vehicles.

New this year, 27th Street will be closed from Oak to Kingwood and the most important facet of the event - show cars - will line the strip.

In addition, visitors to the event can expect non-profits from all over the Siuslaw Valley to be there to provide information about the services they provide.

“It’s a great opportunity for other nonprofits to get exposure,” explained RnR Vice President Ross Kroenert. “We don’t charge them for vendor space and the city waived their fee.”

For the first time RC Nuts Hobby Shop will hold its own remote-controlled car show and shine inside Siuslaw Middle

School.

Florence Habitat for Humanity will have its dunk tank on location. Coastal Jumpers will have its

bouncy house filled with air and ready for bouncing.

Food options will also be many. The Lions Club will be BBQ’ing.

Mo’s and Hangry Habenero will have their food trucks on location.

From 8-11 a..m. come support the Siuslaw Middle School Trap Team at their Hot Cakes and Hot Rods Pancake Breakfast. Pancakes not your thing? How about biscuits and gravy that will be sold to help support the Helping Hands Coalition of Florence. Parking is free.

See RODS page 12

RODS from page 11

There will be music all day from DJ Russ Strohmeyer and, of course, porta potties for all your personal needs.

All proceeds will go towards the support of the Florence Transportation Solutions Program, which is the main goal of the non-profit Rods ‘N Rhodies - assisting local families with automotive repairs to help get their main forms of transportation on the road.

Local groups, like churches, outreach organizations and the Pregnancy and Parenting Center refer individuals or groups with needs to the Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Board of Directors.

“We contact the person and find out what exactly their need is and if they live and work or volunteer in Florence, Mapleton or Dunes City [which is required],” explained Vice President Ross Kroenert. “Once we determine what the problem is we send them to one of four local shops that work with us.”

Those four local shops whose support is essential to the charity are Hoberg’s Auto Repair, Les Schwab Tire Center, Shervin’s Tire & Automotive and Tony’s Garage.

“The shops provide us with an estimate,” Kroenert continued. “Gary sends an email to the other six members. If we all vote to make the repair we tell them to proceed

with the work. They send us the invoice. No money or check goes to the individual. We deal directly with the shop. We pay for it and they drive home with a safer car.”

According to Kroenert the repairs the group typically deals with are tires, brakes, water pumps, starters — things that wear out.

“We don’t get into rebuilding an engine, or, if a car is in a wreck, we don’t cover things like body shops or wreck repair,” Kroenert explained. “We want to give a little financial assistance to help keep people’s main form of transportation safe.”

Since its founding in 2018 the group has helped 24 families with over $15,000 worth of repairs.

These repairs are funded by the production of two car shows, the Rhody Days Car Show & Shine in May and the Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Old Town Invitational Car Show

in September. The group also receives grants and donations to help with funding.

For more information go to rodsnrhodies.org.

We’re Part of Your

16 • 116th Rhododendron Festival • May 2023

Earth

Laughs in Flowers - so wrote Emerson and, for our beautiful hamlet, the grins are just beginning. As we scan our gardens, the prospect of finding that elusive, award winning, ‘perfect truss’ looms large.

To that end the Siuslaw Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society would like to invite you to attend our Rhody Festival Show on Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21.

In conjunction with the show is a plant sale affording the public the opportunity to purchase many hard-to-find varieties. Sales are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

Our members are anxious to share their knowledge about the genus Rhododendron and invite the public to participate in our meetings and shows.

If you wish to enter a truss (flower) we will be happy to guide you through the process.

On Saturday from 7 a.m to 9 p.m, doors are open for entries. Further information on the event can be found at www.

The next meeting of the Rhododendron Society will be May 17 at the Presbyterian Church on Hwy 101. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the program will start at 7.

Join Florence Regional Arts Alliance (FRAA) for their annual Rhody Days Art Festival at the Florence Events Center (FEC).

The event starts Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and continues Sunday, May 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Presented by FRAA, visitors will experience and delight in the unique artistry and fine craftsmanship by local/coastal artisans.

You can find the latest design in Wood art; Scrollsaw wood art; Fractal wood-burned items; Glasswork in jewelry, plates, coasters and more; Paintings in oil, and watercolor; Quilting for your table and walls; Linens for your kitchen; Dolls clothes; Shell wreaths; Baskets in fabric and rope; Mobiles and wire art; Gourd art and gourd instruments; Pottery; Wearable fiber art and shawls; Jewelry designs in wirework, beads, silver,

Enjoy

fused glass, leather and more. The show’s artists will be donating 10% of their sales to support the Florence Arts Center, located at 120 Maple Street. So bring a friend, shop for some unique treasures and support the arts.

The Florence Events Center is located at 715 Quince Street. For more information on FRAA, visit www.fraaoregon.com/.

Our mission at Burns’s Riverside Chapel is to serve each and every family with dignity and the utmost respect at their greatest time of need. We are proud to be of service to our community, providing integrity and a solid foundation for all of our families.

Run Rhody Run to the 44th 5k/10k ‘Rhody Run’

The Rhody Run, a Rhododendron Festival tradition, will celebrate its 44th running this year. The annual race has been run every year since 1979 except 2020, when COVID-19 canceled the competition.

The Rhody Run has had many different routes through the years, but the goal has always been the same — to stage a competitive road race through Florence and at the same time raise some money for charity.

The race was initially sponsored by the Florence Booster Club and Delta Gamma Sorority. The first race was a fundraiser for the Easter Seals Society.

Florence resident Tami Nivens spearheaded the organizing of the first race, which was held May 20, 1979. 111 runners en-

tered Rhody Run I. The winner of the first-ever Rhody Run was Dave Holmes of Veneta, who finished the 10k course in 30:26.

The top woman in the first Rhody Run was Kim Krause of Eugene who covered the distance in 40:23.

The first race was considered a success when it raised about $100 for Easter Seals.

The second running of the race, in 1980, happened to fall on an important day in Oregon history.

Mark Walton grew up in Florence

and was excited to come home for leave from the Navy while his hometown’s yearly floral festival was happening. He en-

tered the Rhody Run.

“I ran the 1980 Rhody Run,” remembered Walton. “Thought the loud booms were loggers blasting but found out from my ex-wife and mom that Mt. St. Helens blew!”

Tim Williams of Lebanon won that second race and was the first to break the half hour mark when he finished in 29:55.

Steve Stuart of Eugene won the race in 1981 and 1982 to become the first runner to win consecutive races.

The 1985 Rhody Run was a more somber event than normal as it was dedicated to Nivens, who had recently passed after battling cancer. Racers wore shirts that said, “This one’s for you Tami.”

The route of the race has changed often through the years, but the race has always been a 10k. A 5k race was added in early years and is still part of the Rhody Run today.

For the third consecutive year Florence Habitat for Hu-

manity will sponsor the race.

The 44th Rhody Run is Saturday, May 20, and is a USA Track & Field sanctioned race. This race is enjoyed by runners and walkers of all ages. People can also participate by volunteering to help race officials or line the streets to cheer on every runner and walker.

Fee is $25 for ages 18 and older, $20 for ages 13-17 and

$15 for ages 12 and younger. A $5 additional fee is charged for race day registration. Fees are the same for both the 5k and 10k races.

To register before the day of the race go to florencehabitat. org or visit the Florence Habitat for Humanity Restore at 2004 Highway 101 to register in person.

Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m.

10 K Rhody Run Route

Race begins at 9 a.m. and an awards ceremony is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. Medals will be awarded for the top three in each of five age groups for both male and female entrants.

Rhody Run T-shirts are available for $20.

For more information visit www.florencehabitat.org/

Guided by goodness, loyalty, faith, and fun

Pictured: Mark Walton nears the finish line at the second annual Rhody Run in

Florence, Oregon

ZERO/Us TOO Florence

Prostate Cancer Education/Support on the Oregon Coast www.ustooflorence.org

BOB HORNEY, CHAPTER LEADER/FACILITATOR

BOTH MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY ON HOLD. WATCH SIUSLAW NEWS FOR RESUMPTION

• Tuesday Evening Group (2nd Tuesday) 5-7 p.m. - Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant Urologist Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff attends.

• Tuesday Lunch Group (3rd Tuesday)

12 noon – 1:00 p.m. – Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant

Urologist Dr. Roger McKimmy attends.

Contact Bob for more information:

(H) 541-997-6626 (C) 541-999-4239

47maribob38@gmail.com

Check out our Personal Prostate Cancer Journeys, slideshows and other information on our website.

• A prostate cancer diagnosis is not needed to attend.

• Spouses/family members are encouraged to attend.

• Bring questions/recordsget answers

• Someone to talk to - who understands. www.ustooflorence.org

Florence Elks Lodge #1858 hosts Rhody Day Activities

There will be several activities all Rhody Festival weekend presented by both the Elks and the Ladies of Elks. All activities will take place at the Florence Elks Lodge #1858, 1686 12th Street where there is plenty of parking.

Saturday, May 20

Elks Chicken BBQ

Join the Elks for some of their famous BBQ chicken on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or when sold out). Follow the smoke to the parking lot. A half chicken, potato salad and baked beans is just $14. Soft drinks $1.

Ladies of Elks Pie & Bake Sale

Join the Ladies of Elks for their Homemade Pie and Bake Sale from 11 a.m. until sold out. The sale will include whole pies and other baked

goods. All proceeds go to local charities. This sale is indoors. Enter through the door on the north side of the building.

Elks Thrift Store 50% Off Sale

At the Elks Thrift Store, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., everything will be 50% off. Don’t miss out on some great treasures. (This excludes medical equipment and Charm Trail).

Quilt Guild show

Sunday, May 21

Elks Past Exalted Ruler Breakfast

Honor Past Exalted Rulers with breakfast from 7-11 a.m. Enjoy scrambled eggs, link sausage, pancakes, coffee and juice. $12, Kids under 10 - $4

Elks Thrift Store 50% Off Sale

At the Elks Thrift Store, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., everything will be 50% off. Don’t miss out on some great treasures. (This excludes medical equipment and Charm Trail).

Elks Chicken BBQ

Join the Elks for some of their famous BBQ chicken on Saturday from 11 a.m. till sold out. Follow the smoke to the parking lot. A half chicken, potato salad and baked beans is just $14. Soft drinks $1.

Rhododendron Quilt Guild (RQG)

is pleased to announce a quilt show and sale taking place from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday May 19 and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m on. Saturday May 20.

This exciting event will feature a stunning display of beautiful and intricate quilts, handmade by local artisans.

Visitors to the quilt show and sale can expect to see a variety of quilt styles, including traditional, modern, and contemporary designs. The quilts on display will feature a range of colors, patterns, and techniques, showcasing the diverse talents of the local quilting community.

In addition to the quilt show, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase quilts, as well as other handmade items such as table runners, wall hangings, and tote bags. There will also be fabrics, patterns, and quilting supplies sold, making

this event a one-stop-shop for all quilting enthusiasts.

Rhododendron Quilt Guild is proud to host this event and celebrate the talent of the local quilting community. We invite everyone to come and admire the beautiful quilts on display, meet the talented artisans, and perhaps take home a unique and handmade item to cherish for years to come.

Admission to the quilt show and sale is free and all are welcome to attend. The event will take place at Old School Furniture, located at 1550 6th Street on Highway 101. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see some truly amazing quilts and support local artists. Local quilters not associated with RQG are also invited to show their quilts.

For more information, please text Sandy Davidson at 541-9910837 or visit our website at rhodyquilt.com.

We’ll give you something to smile about!

We’ll help you find the solutions to better oral health—from basic family dentistry to major reconstruction. We treat every patient with respect and dignity, no matter how harshly life has treated their smile or how long it’s been since visiting a dentist. Our highly-trained staff will take care of you every step of the way.

Rhododendron

Day Parade Grand Marshal Mike Bones ‘humbled’ by honor

The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce has selected local resident Mike Bones as the grand marshal for their annual floral parade.

“Mike Bones personifies this year’s ‘Rip Roarin’ Rhodies’ theme,” said Bettina Hannigan, Florence Chamber president and CEO. He is tremendously gregarious with an infectious spirit, a lot of fun, and is known to many in these parts for his longtime interest and expertise with our famous flowers. He’s also a lot like our logo for this year--bright, colorful, beautiful, and he really pops.”

“I was humbled into speechlessness, which is an unusual occurrence for me, after being completely surprised by being awarded the honor

of Grand Marshal for the 2023 Rhododendron Grand Floral Parade. I consider getting to be Grand Marshal high praise. I want to thank the Chamber Board for this privilege to represent our great town of Florence,” said Bones.

Bones is a 1966 graduate of Siuslaw High School and is their alumni association president. He’s a Navy vet and former Oregon State park ranger, past Commander for the local American Legion post, and is a current board member who served more than 20 years as president of the Siuslaw Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society. The chapter puts on the second largest rhododendron show in the world behind only

Chelsea, England.

Bones is completing an 8-year term as the Oregon state representative for the American Rhododendron Society and serves as president of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. He’s won international recognition for his interest in rhododendrons by being awarded the International Silver Medal for his accomplishments in educating others about the flowers, and for his years of dedication and service to the Siuslaw and American Rhododendron Societies.

He and his wife Kathy were named Florence First Citizens in 2005 for their community service. They founded Bones Nursery in 1978, specializing in rhododendrons and azaleas.

“With all his accolades and achievements, it’s his dedication to our festival that truly elevated Mike to grand marshal status this year,” said Hannigan.

“During Covid, when the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce was unable to

dodendron Festival, Mike walked the parade route both years, pulling a wagon full of rhododendrons while waving to those passing by. He single-handedly kept the event alive through all that adversity.”

“The festival, with its carnival, Rhododendron Court, parades, clas-

Town. Saturdays traditionally feature the annual 5K Rhody Run and Walk, the junior parade and kids’ activities, the annual Rhody Classic Car Show ‘n’ Shine, and the Coast Radio Classic Car Cruise through Old Town. Sunday brings the grand floral parade down Highway 101 and into Historic Old Town starting at noon. Throughout the event there will be a vendor’s fair in Old Town, a spectacular rhododendron show at the Florence Events Center, and live music, art, and other festivities and activities all over town.

sic car cruise, vendor fair, and flower show serves as the unofficial kickoff to the summer tourist season here in Oregon’s Coastal Playground,” added Hannigan. “It’ll be another rip-roarin’ time as we celebrate our local natural beauty and famous flowers. We invite everyone to come enjoy the pageantry of the second-longest running floral festival in Oregon.”

The festival opens the Saturday prior to the third weekend in May (May 13) with the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, the King of the Coast, and their royal court at the Florence Events Center; and with the Davis Shows Carnival at the Port

“Generations of families have enjoyed the annual Florence Rhododendron Festival by attending, enjoying the Davis Shows carnival, exhibiting their rhododendrons, showing off their classic cars and motorcycles, being in the parades, and shopping and dining in Old Town and all around town,” adds Hannigan. “It’s a family tradition, an Oregon institution that has drawn generations of attendees.”

The Florence Rhododendron Festival is Oregon’s second-oldest floral festival, bested only by a year by the Portland Rose Festival, and sees thousands of visitors from around the state and across the country.

Photo caption: Al Rojas, Chamber board chair; Beth Rudometkin, board member; Angela Nelson, board member; Mike Bones, Kathy Bones; Mitzi Hathaway, chamber director of tourism development, Rich Colton board member and marketing director for Three Rivers Casino Resort. Photo credit: Florence Area Chamber of Commerce.