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Stand down helps many

Over

By TONY REED Siuslaw News

City approval clears way for Lotus building renovation

By TONY REED The Siuslaw News

At its regular meeting Feb. 24, the City Council voted unanimously to approve the amendment of a comprehensive plan diagram and a zoning change that will allow the owner of the former Lotus building to potentially renovate the former Lotus building to house 16 residential apartments. The building is known to locals as it’s been unused for many years, but its parking lot is still used for viewing the west side of the Siuslaw River Bridge and as overflow parking during city events.

At its Jan. 14 meeting, the Planning Commission heard

Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority promotes two

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority Chief Michael Schick recognized the promotions of two department officers with a pinning ceremony Feb. 27 at the station in Florence during the Board of Directors meeting.

Rob Chance was promoted from Division Chief to Deputy Chief and Andy Gray was promoted from Captain to Logistics Division Chief.

As Deputy Chief, Chance will be responsible for training, operations and EMS. Gray is now responsible apparatus, facilities and capital projects. Schick said each have been with the agency for 13 years and have done exceptional work for the department and community.

Annual review calls city manager “outstanding”

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

City Manager Erin Reynolds received a glowing evaluation and a pay raise at the Feb 24 City Council meeting.

City HR Director Alex Ferguson explained that the annual process demonstrates accountability to staff and the public. The review team is made up of the mayor and council president, and the remaining councilors have opportunities to evaluate the city manager as well. Results of those evaluations are compiled as one.

Reynolds received a 3 97 out of 4 rating (99 3%), which is considered outstanding, he said. In Executive Session before the regular meeting councilors discussed contract negotiations, and a 10 percent increase was recommended to the council.

Janel Montes and Tyler Delle administer a booster to this little pup, who took it all without a whimper. Tony Reed photo.

From the Siuslaw River Bridge, the former Lotus building can be seen on the river shoreline. Tony Reed photo.

The Florence Elks Lodge was abuzz with activity for four hours during the Veteran and Community Stand Down. Photo provided.

Deputy Chief Rob Chance stands with his son Maddox, who pinned his new badge. Tony Reed photos

Division Chief Andy Gray after his daughter Talia pinned his new gold badge on his uniform.

Erin Reynolds

Trump agency leaders insist that safety won’t be affected

LYNNE TERRY Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregon’s Democratic U.S. House members

— and other Democrats in the House — warned this week that firing firefighters and employees at agencies that manage federal land could have drastic consequences for the upcoming fire season.

The federal government owns just over 50% of Oregon’s land, and it’s mainly managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

In two letters this week, Oregon’s House members called on the new head of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the U.S. Forest Service, and the recently appointed secretary of the Department of the Interior, which oversees the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service, to reverse the recent firing of thousands of employees.

“The hiring freeze and staffing cuts have harmed the livelihoods of dedicated public servants across our state and will directly undermine public safety,” Oregon’s five Democratic House members wrote Thursday to interior head Doug Burgum and USDA chief Brooke Rollins. “Fewer firefighters and insufficient staffing during fire season exacerbate fire response delays, prevent effective mitigation efforts, and place lives, property, and our environment at greater risk.”

Rep. Janelle Bynum led that letter, while Rep. Andrea Salinas, another member of Oregon’s

House delegation, joined with two Democratic representatives from California in crafting a letter to Rollins that expressed similar concerns about firefighting resources. That letter, sent Wednesday, was also signed by the other Democrats in Oregon’s House delegation among 80 Democratic House members.

They asked Rollins to bring back employees who were recently fired, saying that action would have “catastrophic consequences” on wildfire prevention efforts nationwide.

“These cuts, compounded by the decision to freeze federal funding for a long list of critical programs and grants, could leave our public lands more vulnerable than ever to the threat of wildfires, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change,” they said in a letter sent Wednesday.

The letters followed Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and other Western governors urging Rollins last week to reconsider funding cuts and protect grants intended for wildfire mitigation. Kotek told reporters she met with Rollins at the White House last week during the National Governors Association meeting and received reassurance that the USDA would reassess wildfire grants and hiring seasonal employees.

“I think it was heard,” she said. “I think they’re going to reassess that. It will be very difficult for us to be ready for the fire season without full partnership from the federal government. My understanding from those meetings is that they are reassessing, and I hope they do that quickly. It will have an impact on our rural communities.”

One congressional letter emphasized that with climate change causing more extreme wildfires, Oregon and California,

Pet of the Week

THOMAS

especially, have recently experienced devastating fire seasons. Last year, wildfires burned a record 1 9 million acres in Oregon, just four years after the Labor Day fires killed nine people and burned thousands of homes. And southern California last month experienced its most devastating wildfires in history, with two fires claiming at least 28 lives and damaging more than 18,000 structures.

“These tragedies underscore the urgent need for ongoing community risk reduction and wildfire mitigation strategies that the U.S. Forest Service is tasked with carrying out,” the letter said.

The letter cited news reports saying that the agency had fired 3 400 people across the country, but a statement from an unnamed spokesperson to the Capital Chronicle said the service had let 2,000 go. The spokesperson said that none of them were involved in firefighting and that all were on probation.

“None of these individuals were operational firefighters,” the statement said, adding that “Secretary Rollins is committed to preserving essential safety positions and will ensure that critical services remain uninterrupted.”

The spokesperson declined to say how many were fired in Oregon. According to the latest data from the federal Office of Personnel Management, nearly 4,220 full-time U.S. Forest Service employees worked in Oregon last September and nearly 930 had been working with the agency for less than a year. Probationary employees can also include those who’ve recently been promoted.

Although the agency insists that no firefighters were fired, news reports show that employees involved in firefighting have been given the axe, including a park ranger who spoke to OPB.

The lawmakers said those firings leave the

agency “dangerously understaffed.”

Bynum’s letter also mentioned news reports citing that 1 000 Park Service employees have been fired along with 800 people at the Bureau of Land Management. It’s unclear how many of those were in Oregon.

The Office of Personnel Management shows that as of September, there were nearly 1,520 Bureau of Land Management employees in the state and that nearly 180 had been working less than a year. Nearly 195 Park Service employees were working in Oregon last September, and nearly 20 had less than a year on the job.

“Reports that firefighters and employees with fire mitigation duties have been terminated are very concerning and require your immediate attention,” the letter to Rollins and Burgam said.

The other letter asked Rollins for a response to several questions, including the number of fired Forest Service employees who’ve been fired since Jan. 20, their title, location and other information.

The letter also asked what the agency has done to restore wildfire mitigation programs that have been disrupted by the firings and funding freeze, its plans for supporting personnel that manage federal land and whether it will restore funding already approved by Congress for wildfire prevention and firefighter support.

“We urge you to reconsider these cuts and ensure that the Forest Service and other agencies are fully equipped to handle the growing wildfire crisis,” the letter said.

Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@ oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

The Florence Police Department responded to the following calls from February 17th to February 25

FEB. 19

At 8:36 a.m., officers responded to the 3700 block of Highway 101 to investigate a report of child sexual abuse.

At 10:29 a.m. officers responded to the area near the water treatment plant bathroom for a report of prohibited sheltering.

At 5:26 p.m., officers responded to the 1200 block of Bay Street or a report of found property. Officers recovered a bag and entered it into evidence. To claim the bag call Florence Police Department at 541-997-3515

At 11:14 p.m., officers responded to the 1000 block of Nopal Street to conduct a death investigation. Death was determined to have been natural in cause and no foul play suspected.

FEB. 20

At 10:10 a.m., officers responded to the 2000 block of Highway 101 for a report of a subject refusing to leave a business. Officers escorted the subject off the property and warned him not to come back.

At 12:37 p.m., officers responded to the 3900 block of Highway 101 to assist department of health services staff. At the location officer spoke to a subject and found he had an active warrant and he was arrested.

At 1:53 p.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of 18th Street for a report of harassment.

Officers contacted a subject at the scene, told him to leave the property and not return.

At 2:51 p.m., a subject came into the police department who officers knew to have a warrant. Subject was arrested.

At 4:49 p.m., officers

for

responded to the 900 block of Greenwood Street to investigate a report of a restraining order violation. Officers arrested one subject for that violation.

At 7:45 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of Highway 101 for a report of a subject refusing to leave a business. Officers escorted the subject off the property and warned him not to return.

FEB. 21

At 9:27 a.m., officers responded to the 600 block of Kingwood Street for a report of theft.

At 9:40 a.m., code enforcement tagged a vehicle left on Ivy Street. At 10:35 a.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Highway 101 or a report that a business had been broken into. Officers investigated and found money had been taken from the till.

At 10:55 a.m., officers responded to the area of the Beachcomber for a report of a DUI driver in the area. Officers attempted to locate the vehicle but were unsuccessful.

At 2:19 p.m., officers responded to the 3500 block of Highway 101 for a report of theft. Officers investigated and found it to be a civil dispute over the sale of a vehicle.

At 4:54 p.m., officers responded to the 4700 block of Highway 101 for a report of Hit and Run. A witness reported seeing the incident, which remains under investigation.

At 6:58 p.m., a caller in a vehicle reported a road rage incident where another vehicle was following them.

FEB. 22

At 3:14 a.m., officers contacted the driver of a vehicle in the area of 9th Street and Elm Street. Alexis Young-Winston, 25, was arrested for DUI. At 10:42 a.m., and officer in the 1600 block of 12th Street was flagged

Thomas is a charming cat who was found exploring the scenic shores of Honeymoon State Park. With his striking good looks and irresistibly sweet personality, Thomas truly earns the title of a “hunky love bug.” If you’re looking for a loyal and loving companion with a heart as big as his personality, Thomas is ready to join you on a lifetime of adventures!

Coal came into our lives around Christmas, perfectly symbolizing how something ordinary can become extraordinary. His journey has been one of remarkable resilience. Found weak and emaciated in a community member’s doorway, Coal barely had the strength to survive. Wrapped in a blanket and given food, he was brought to us, leaving us amazed he was still alive. With dedicated care, Coal has made incredible progress. He thrives on affection, nuzzling against you and curling up in your lap. When you’re not loving on him, he stays close, offering gentle companionship. Starting at just 6 pounds, Coal now weighs 10 pounds and is on his way to a healthy weight. He has completed all medical treatments and now needs a loving home to thrive.

OREGON COAST HUMANE SOCIETY

Rhododendron Drive • Florence • 541-997-4277 www.oregoncoasthumanesociety.org

hours are 10am - 4pm seven days a week

AN APT COMPARISON

Lately there have been a great many comparisons made between Donald Trump and Adolph Hitler. Even Trump’s special advisor, Steve Bannon, made the comparison, albeit favorably, when Trump first came down the ‘golden escalator’ to announce his initial candidacy for the office. There have also been numerous references lately comparing Trump to Napoleon, and, previously, to Big Brother. None of these seem to fit very well, however. I think the best comparison would be Trump and Mussolini. It would also be the most insulting. Even Trump, never too quick on the up-take, could realize that Mussolini was a loser. Both men have the same mannerisms: the same arrogant stance, the same self-satisfied smirk and look of disdain as if they are laughing at their enemies, the same cold

stare when they want to appear ominous, the same tough-looking posture as they stand and look out upon their world. Both are poseurs, almost caricatures of themselves. As such, both are laughable.

Though Mussolini was a dictator, putting fear into the hearts of his countrymen, he was a follower, not a leader. He followed others who were stronger than he was. He followed Hitler into World War II, turning Italy into a German puppet state. When he tried to escape the destruction of the war, he was caught and assassinated by his own people. Trump, in setting himself up as an ally of Vladimir Putin’s, in declaring that Zelensky is a dictator, and that Ukraine started the war, has established himself not only as Putin’s puppet but as a very foolish man. He has turned his back on his country. Trump, in declaring himself king, even if

POLICE LOG

down and told a subject had been bitten by a dog. Officers found the person responsible for the dog and confirmed it’s documents and vaccinations.

At 10:59 a.m., a caller reported finding a dog in the 1400 block of 9th street. Incident was unrelated to the previous.

At 11:06 a.m., a caller in the 100 block of Laurel Street reported a dog barking.

At 2:36 p.m., officers responded to a non-injury vehicle accident in the 4600 block of Highway 101

At 8:40 p.m., officers responded to the 2400 block of Highway 101 for a report of a DUI driver. officers arrested Lawrence Brown, 55, for DUI.

At 9:41 p.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of Bay Street for a report of a possible DUI driver.

At 11:40 p.m., Florence police assisted sheriff’s deputies with a non-injury

traffic accident in the area of Highway 101 and Glenada Road.

FEB. 2 3

At 2:58 a.m., officers responded to the 2200 block of 12th Street for a report of harassment. Officers investigated to find an ongoing family dispute.

At 4:59 a.m. and 6:01 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Laurel Street or a report of loud noise coming from a nearby residence. Officers reported it to be quiet upon arrival.

At 11:31 a.m., a caller in the 500 block of 9th Street reported a dog at large in the area..

At 12:22 p.m., a caller reported receiving something strange in the mail and was instructed to turn it over to a detective for investigation.

At 5:12 p.m., callers reported a power outage in the north area of Florence.

At 5:17 p.m., officers,

unofficially, has committed the Cardinal Sin of American politics, something shunned by every president since George Washington. It is the act of an egomaniac. You have to turn to fictitious characters like Willie Stark from the novel and film All the King’s Men, to find such absurd behavior and incongruous characters. In that regard, Trump is unique.

George Durant Florence

Thanks to Dina Pavlis for her letter last week supporting and clarifying her public comments at the Florence Planning Commission meeting. I support a creative use of the Lotus property, with mixed use or commercial development instead of residential development. Rather than developing it into condos which would benefit a few people, there are creative

medics and fire personnel responded to a report of a vehicle on its side off the roadway in the 87,600 block of Highway 101 Driver was found to have minor injuries and the crash was unrelated to the power outage.

At 6:01 p.m., an officer observed an open door on a residence in the 2500 block of Oak Street and checked to ensure the building was secure.

FEB. 24

At 9:32 a.m., officers responded to the 3900 block of Highway 101 to serve a trespass warning.

At 4:27 p.m., a caller reported finding a wallet in the 1700 block of 43rd Street. officers investigated and found the wallet belonged to a subject being housed in County Jail and made arrangements to return the wallet.

At 5:11 p.m., a caller in the 700 block of Highway 101 reported that they returned home from the store to realize their

options for development that would benefit our community, by allowing many more people to enjoy this space with its iconic views of the bridge, dunes and river. Further information will be presented to The Florence Planning Commission at their March 11 meeting at 5:30PM at City Hall. These meetings offer the Florence community a chance to learn and to voice their opinions about future plans which impact the quality of life for all of us who live in this beautiful area.

Joan Skarda Florence, OR 97439

Thank you for a valuable source of news with the weekly inclusion of the Police Log. Better than rumors, it also helps us to appreciate some of the difficult work done in our community.

Julie Golden Florence

vehicle had been damaged while they were away from it.

FEB. 25

At 1:39 a.m., a caller reported hearing loud music in the 5200 block of Highway 101. Officers responded to find the scene quiet upon arrival.

At 10:11 a.m., a caller reported losing a wallet in the area of Oak Street.

At 5:41 p.m., a caller in the 1500 Block of Highway 101 reported that a subject stole a donation jar from the counter of the business.

At 9:40 p.m., a caller in the 1400 block of Airport Road reported finding a dog.

Officers issued 6 trespass warnings, responded to 4 domestic disputes, conducted 12 welfare check visits and made 28 traffic stops.

According to the dispatch tally, officers have responded to 3,269 calls since January 1

Jeanna Petersen | Senior

Consultant

| jpetersen@countrymedia.net Tony Reed | Editor 541.902.3526 | treed@countrymedia.net

“Game On” a Fun Time for All

The Florence Food Share proudly presents “Game On – Hollywood Nights,” an event

promising to be one of the most thrilling of the year. Join us on Friday, April 11, at Three Rivers Casino

Resort for a live game show featuring Florence residents.

Experience an evening filled with spirited competition, all while contributing to our local community! Your ticket grants you access to delectable offerings from our appetizer tables along with a cash bar and an exciting silent auction boasting a diverse range of items. Doors open at 5:00 pm and the game kicks off at 6:00 pm.

Come partake in some lighthearted competition and help raise crucial funds for Florence Food Share—we can’t do it without your support.

Individual tickets are priced at $40, while VIP tables are available for $350. For more details, visit FlorenceFoodShare. org or call 541-997-9110

9th Street Neighborhood Project

CITY OF FLORENCE

The City of Florence NW 9th Street Neighborhood Project is a Direct Appropriation from Oregon Senate Bill (SB) 1530 that was awarded to Florence during the 2024 short legislation session. The City was identified as a local government to receive funding for an infrastructure project to catalyze building much needed housing in Florence. The project unlocks an undeveloped section of the community in the heart of the City with easy access to all necessary and discretionary amenities and services. As part of our application to the State, the City put forth City owned blocks

in the heart of the City Center to construct local streets and utilities to create ready to build lots at a cost of $1 9 million. With the infrastructure investment in the public rights-of-way (ROW) for transportation related facilities, water, wastewater, stormwater and open space (park) the City can unlock and provide access to 6 privately owned blocks and two City owned blocks creating ready to build lots for a minimum of 113 to 176 units of housing for the area that we are calling the Northwest 9th Street Neighborhood. We anticipate that construction engineering services will be completed late winter 2025 and the project would be advertised

for competitive bid in late March 2025, with Florence City Council awarding the project to a general contractor in April 2025. A notice to proceed to the contractor to begin construction is anticipated to be issued late May 2025 Construction is anticipated to take 120 days for substantial completion with final completion occurring within 30 days of substantial completion (total of 150 days from notice to proceed). Depending on weather and the contractor, we anticipate that the infrastructure project (water, wastewater, streets and stormwater) for the NW 9th Street Neighborhood Project to be completed November 2025

Rep. Hoyle Statement on House Republicans’ Senseless Budget Bill

On Feb. 25, Representative Val Hoyle voted against the House Republicans’ partisan budget bill which will gut crucial programs like Medicaid and SNAP, all while adding a $4 5 trillion tax cut for multi-millionaires and billionaires.

BACKSTREET GALLERY

Ahead of the vote, Rep. Hoyle released the following statement:

“After running on reducing the federal spending and the deficit, House Republicans have put forward a budget busting bill that will take healthcare away from millions of Americans

and food away from hungry people—all so they can give massive tax breaks to their billionaire buddies. Republicans have the majority in the House, the Senate and lead the White House. This was a bill they put together, this is their budget to pass and they will be responsible for the consequences if it does pass. This bill does not meet the needs of working people. As a result, I’m a hard no.”

BACKGROUND

In Oregon’s 4th district, under the Republican budget plan:

• 23 000 people who receive coverage under the Affordable Care Act would see their average premium go up by $1 070 per year — a 40% increase; • 246 589 people on Medicaid are at risk of losing their health care; • 163,000 people would be at risk of losing their SNAP benefits to put food on the table. Nationally, the House Republican budget plan: •Increases the debt limit by $4 trillion • Adds $1 6 trillion to the deficit; • Gives away $4 5 trillion in tax cuts to the wealthy.

Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (FUUF) Explores the Concept of Trust

Most of us remember singing “The Ants Go Marching” as children, where the little ants followed their leader blindly. But as adults, we are left to ask ourselves: What or who do we follow blindly in life? Do we truly understand how life unfolds, and what role we play in it? Rev. Dr. Ruth Miller will provide insight into how cultural conditioning often leads us down paths we might not consciously choose, and how we can reclaim our autonomy in how we engage with life and trust its process. Join us at the Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship for this thought-provoking service on Sunday, March 9, 2025

Location: Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship – 87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach Road

Time: Doors open at 9:30 AM; Service begins at 10:00 AM Everyone is invited to join us, and well-behaved dogs are welcome as well! For more information, please contact: Sally Wantz ~ Florence. Unitarian@gmail.com

lengthy presentations about the reasons for the requested zoning change and amendment, which would correct a previous error in City records. Public comment also ensued, with commenters both in favor and opposed to the idea of creating apartments there, rather than a more community-serving use.

Community Development Director Wendy Farley-Campbell explained that the two requests were to amend the comprehensive plan diagram to change the Development Estuary Unit southward to become Residential Management Development Unit.

The second was a zone change to the relevant water areas, with the goal of moving the zoning to match the previous amendment. Both were approved by the commission and forwarded to the

Manager

From Page A1

Just to inform the public, we conducted a compensation analysis where we looked at external market factors of what other comparable agencies are paying their city managers,” he said. “We also conducted an internal comparison of all our pay factors for employees, our salary range and schedule, so it was a pretty comprehensive process this time around. We don’t typically do a compensation study every year, but it had been

council for approval.

WHERE’S THE LINE?

Farley-Campbell explained that the shoreline between water use and land use in a tidal area is defined as “the boundary line between a body of water and the land, measured on tidal waters at mean higher high water…”

“We have to implement a lot of different codes and laws and different water marks apply for different things, it’s amazingly frustrating,” she said, comparing the original diagrams to the applicants’ property line, shown as the low water line. “They own all the way out into the water… to the mean low water line. That’s not true of everyone along Bay Street.” Farley-Campbell said she was unclear how or when the lines changed for others in the area.

Saying that the property was previously used as a mobile home park and RV Park, Farley-Campbell noted that a wooden

three to four years since the last one and with market factors being pretty volatile, it made sense to do it this time.”

Ferguson said the new contract would backdate to Jan. 1 of this year, increasing her salary to $173 163

The council approved the evaluation and raise unanimously.

Councilor Jo Beaudreau said Reynolds exemplifies leadership and mentorship, saying she appreciates her knowledge of complex situations.

“I’m really proud to be a council member with our City Manager,

bulkhead was replaced by a cement one, and when looking at older and some current maps, the tide line is shown to cross the center of the Lotus building parking lot.

“Before they made the RV park, that’s where the tide went,” she said. “This area is a fill area. You can look at really old documents and see that.”

Planning Commissioners previously approved the requests, adding that a section of Juniper Street be included in the change area, since it also includes a bulkhead about which new lines were determined.

PERMITTED USES

Responding to an inquiry from Councilor Jo Beaudreau about the definitions and differences between uses, Farley-Campbell gave a history of the property’s uses. She said that if the building were to open a restaurant, that use could continue as a permitted, but non-conforming use. At one point, the area was

Erin Reynolds,” she said. “Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to the city and community.” Councilor Sally Wantz “dittoed”

Beuadreau’s words while Mayor Rob Ward said Beaudreau captured the feelings of the council.

Departing councilor Bill Meyer said the City is fortunate to have a city manager of Reynolds’ caliber.

“I know there are a lot of cities within driving distance of here that would love to have somebody of this quality, but we’re going to keep her here,” he said.

rezoned, and it was determined that the restaurant was a water-related use of the building.

“Ibn 2009, we adopted the map you’re looking at,” she told the council, “and they zoned it correctly because it was zoned incorrectly … in 1987 … but it was already zoned incorrectly even before that.”

Farley-Campbell said records and codes were updated in 2009, and the definition of a water-related use was changed to be more specific. She said that with the changes, the building will be considered a land-related use, rather than the previous, which restricted the building and parking lot to water-related uses.

Consultant Kim O’Dea, of Metro Planning, in Springfield, said the process has meant a lot of work for the applicant and staff and more work is to come.

“In reality, we’re

correcting a mapping error,” she said. “So this first part, the plan amendment and zone change simply moves that line to where the data says it’s supposed to be.”

Applicant Chris Leturno requested the changes, as the previous zoning would have restricted plans to develop commercial and residential uses there. Laterno said he agrees with the staff and planning commission

recommendation to approved the amendment and zone change. When asked, FarleyCampbell said the building has no current permitted use and any future proposals will have to go through the Planning Commission and typical processes. With no public comments and little council discussion, the requested changes were made by unanimous vote.

Taking a leading role by funding scholarships as we help our students become tomorrow’s stars!

Florence Rotary Auction Saturday, March 8th, 2025 at Florence Event Center

William Wagner, a

and

Coordinator

said his job entails working in communities with the goal of suicide prevention.

“It’s a veteran tradition,” Wagner said about Stand downs. “It started after Vietnam and they have been doing it ever since. The intent is to be able to come into a setting where they can stand down and take a break. Today, we had a lot of services which wee therapeutic in nature, and a lot were tactile services and were hands-on because so many people are living transient or unhoused and they’re not having a lot of human contact. We have a barber, we have dentists, we have a nurse and a chaplain’s corner and even the Humane Society is here, because for a lot of folks, the only connection they are making is with their animals.”

Wagner said the tactile human connection and contact with others allows at risk people to walk out of the stand down, feeling like they are in a somewhat different place mentally.

“When you look at the highest suicide rates, they fall in the 18- to 38-yearold and over 65-year-old populations,” he said, noting the 988 hotline.

“You can call it any time of day, not just if you are acutely suicidal but this is going to be something where we want to get you a safety net. We want to get you where we can and where we have the resources to do it.”

Wagner said that since many at-risk people and those experiencing homelessness don’t have a smartphone with which to find necessities. He said people were given a small, weatherproof pocket directory of local services with addresses and information.

Wagner said VA personnel came from around the region to take part in the stand down to help those in need to weather the hard times and rebound.

Wagner praised the Mental Crisis Response team that operates under Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority, for its work and response.

A HAND TO HELP

Pastor Rick Chilton spoke of Helping Hands Coalition, which brings people together to help people find their resilience, defined as the capacity to withstand hardships by utilizing resources.

“The best of the best community resources came to bear here,” he said, “but that’s not the end of the story because every person who came here will have a follow-up call. We’ll ask, ‘did you find everything you were looking for’ and if not, we’re going on a mission to help them.”

He explained the program revolves around four essential service categories. The first includes food, mail service, camping supplies, transportation resources, showers, laundry and more. The second, access to a variety of programs and case management to create financial stability, business, mental and other health resources. The third

is an educational program that promotes healthy lifestyle choices. The fourth category involves nutritional Meal services and classes about diet and exercise, taught by a leading cardiologist.

“Our dedicated volunteer team achieved a milestone this month by serving 70,000 meals in Florence over the past 13 years,” he told the crowd. “adding that help is also available to lower food costs, and even help people quit smoking and vaping.

A WELCOMING PLACE

Chaplain Rick recognized and thanks the Elks Lodge for the use of its facilities to hold the Stand Down, as well as its kitchen and thrift store to provide food and offer clothing to those who needed it. While the Stand Down was originally enacted for veterans, the Florence event has been expanded to help anyone in need.

He noted that young Sea Cadets were also

present to help people find stations and services. Staff at the door spoke of how the young cadets interacted with veterans and listened to their stories.

Oregon Coast Humane Society staff operated a tent outside the Elks Lodge. When asked, Janel Montes said the

most common treatments administered were flea control and vaccine boosters. Tyler Delle said many people didn’t know pets needed booster shots and others asked why their flea control treatments weren’t working.

One client, who was carrying bags of groceries out the door, said as a newcomer, she was greeted with compassion and caring help.

“We tend to want to be independent and isolated,” she said. “In reality, we really do need others… coming to something like this and being embraced, it means a lot. You wake up feeling quite alone and going through something like this, you can reconnect.” When asked, she said she was able to find many resources she’d been unaware of and while she was apprehensive at first, she was glad she came to the Stand Down.

Chaplain Rick called the event a great success, noting that in only four hours, it was able to help many people.

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Oregon Coast Humane Society personnel treated animals during the Statnd Down at the Elks Lodge. Tony Reed photo.

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

Improvement in the books for Siuslaw

Will LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

This year, Siuslaw girls basketball Head Coach Aaron McNeill and his team had a goal to get better “each and every day.” Now that the season is over, McNeill feels that the Vikings have made strides in nearly every facet of the game, and the season ended on a high note.

“I truly feel we improved in almost every aspect of the game. I think we showed the most growth in our ability to handle other teams’ full-court defensive pressure,” McNeill said.

“We played with more confidence against full-court pressure, and that was evident in our ability to not only break a team’s press but score against it. We improved fundamentally, and I feel we became a much better passing team which helped reduce turnovers.”

Siuslaw finished the season with a

3-21 overall record, their best mark since 2018-2019, and a 2-8 league record, their highest league win mark since 2014-2015, according to MaxPreps.

Each win was one of the season’s highlights and a product of the team’s progress and the player’s hard work to get there.

“It was rewarding watching our girls play well and win a few games this season,” McNeill said. “Watching the girls celebrate our victories was special.”

The team got their wins off the back of their defensive strength, and McNeill said their defense gave them a platform to be competitive even in their losses. The team did “a great job” of adjusting its defensive schemes to match opponents and keep them guessing.

“I was really pleased with our defense throughout most of the

season and feel it gave us opportunities to be competitive on the scoreboard in more games this season,” McNeill said. “As the season progressed, we were able to extend our defense full court with some success, especially in our last game at Douglas.”

The Feb. 21 season finale against Douglas was symbolic of the team’s improvement throughout the year.

The Vikings beat Douglas 47-23, and McNeill said it was the Vikings’ most complete performance.

“We ended our season playing our most complete game of the year at Douglas,” McNeill said. “We played well in almost every aspect of the game. Our defense was stellar, including our full-court pressure, and we finally shot the ball well.”

Though shooting was a struggle for much of the year, the Vikings built confidence throughout the season,

finding ways to relax rather than rush their shots. In the final game, the shots started falling, and the Vikings put up a season-high 47 points. The Vikings previously beat the Trojans 39-29 on Feb. 4, and the final game completed the sweep.

“We played our best two games of the season against Douglas, and both games showed how much we had improved over the course of the season,” McNeill said.

The final game against Douglas also gave the Vikings’ seniors a chance to put their years of experience on full display. McNeill said that seniors Makayla Bender and Macy McNeill had their best performances of the season - “a rewarding conclusion to their four-year careers.”

Macy McNeill’s play this year earned her recognition from the

See GIRLS, Page B2

A “magical day” for Siuslaw boys wrestling

Will LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

When Siuslaw’s boys wrestling finished compet ing at the Special District 2 Championships in Elmira, Head Coach Neil Wartnik came away the tournament, saying “Saturday was a magical day for the boys wrestling team,”

“They competed so well at the district wrestling tournament,” Wartnik said.

wrestler’s road to gold, Wartnik said Robertson’s path was the most challenging.

“All nine boys who stepped on the mats wrestled courageously and did good work.

Four boys earned spots at the state tournament.”

Between the boys and girls programs, Siuslaw High School was represented by seven wrestlers at the 2025 OSAA Oregon State Wrestling Championships. The four boys who extended their seasons at districts on Feb. 22 were Leonardo Robertson at 150, Gage Mills at 190, Jacob Mann at 215, and Charles Nelson at 157 Robertson, Mills, and Mann didn’t just qualify for state, though; each toppled the competition to be crowned district champions. When the mats quieted, three of the 14 boys district champions hailed from Siuslaw High School. Looking at each

avenged a loss from season’s against Justin Hoyt and bested one of last year’s state place winners in Isaac Talmadge.

“Robertson had the toughest road,” Wartnik said. “Seeded third, he had challenging matches in the semifinals and the finals, defeating Justin Hoyt and Isaac Talmadge, both from Harrisburg.” Robertson rose to the challenge, winning by a 7-3 decision against Hoyt in the semis and beating Talmadge in the finals by a 6-2 decision for the district crown.

Mann added another dominant display to a season that has seen him lose just three matches all season. Wartnik said Mann “pinned his way to a title,” as he won each of his three matches by fall. The exclamation point to his weekend was beating

Sheridan’s returning state place winner Alessandro DePiero in 1 minute 48 seconds in the final.

The last Viking to grab a gold medal at districts was Gage Mills, who pinned his first two opponents and then knocked off Creswell’s Andrew Terry for the title. Mills was crowned champion after defeating Terry by a 12-4 major decision.

Another piece of the magic, in addition to the gold medals, was Charles Nelson’s shock run to state qualification.

“Charles Nelson stunned the district crowd by pulling off three big upsets to place third at 157,” Wartnik said. First, he defeated fourth seed Travis Seehafer of Harrisburg 10-3 in the quarterfinals. Then, after losing to eventual champion Kamron Ness, he went on to defeat Javier Bautista (who had defeated him earlier this season) and third seed Hunter Davis.”

Nelson pinned Davis in the third-place match to punch his ticket to state, completing his improbable run. Nelson, Mann, Robertson, and Mills joined Macali Lade, Abby Riggs, and Danin Lacouture as the Vikings who would take on the state championships at the Portland Memorial Coliseum Feb. 26-27

OTHER RESULTS FROM DISTRICTS

Districts weren’t just a success because of the wrestlers Siuslaw qualified for state; Wartnik said that one of the “most exciting” matches of the day involved junior Ali Ijaz.

“[Ijaz] nearly defeated Justin Hoyt of Harrisburg. Hoyt, a senior, has been to state multiple times,” Wartnik said. “Ijaz is a junior who is competing for the first time this year, [and] led until late in the final round before losing 12-11.”

Ijaz went on to place 6th for the Vikings, and Jameson Hubner added an “impressive 5th place” to round out Siuslaw’s place winners. Nick Sprague, Quentin Stidham, and Gabby Sweet also wrestled in Elmira for the Vikings but were not able to place. Overall, Wartnik came away from the weekend with a sense that the team had performed “courageously,” reiterating the occasion’s specialness.

“As I said, it was a magical day; our boys did us proud,” Wartnik said.

Dunes Trail Run coming

The 4th running of the Siuslaw Dunes trail run is being held on Saturday, March 8th, staging at East Woahink Day Use Area at Honeyman State Park. The event includes three race distances of 50 kilometers (31 miles), 20 miles and 12 kilometers (7 miles), each crossing the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area between Tahkenitch Campground and Honeyman. The event is produced by Jeremy and Aaron Long of Daybreak Racing. Both Jeremy and Aaron are Florence natives, having graduated from Siuslaw High School in 1996 and

1997, respectively. Each enjoyed successful running careers at Siuslaw and have seen success as trail running and ultramarathon event producers throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. St. Helens and other Oregon Coast locations. A donation to the Siuslaw High School Track and Cross Country program is made from event proceeds each year.

For more information, to sign up to participate, or volunteer at the event, please visit www. daybreakracing.com/ siuslaw-dunes.

Randy Paredes Broker

The 2024-2025 varsity Siuslaw Girls Basketball Team.

A celebration of Ireland

On Saturday, March 15

“A Celebration of Ireland – music, poetry, history & folklore from the Emerald Isle” with Four Shillings Short, at the Siuslaw Library. The performance takes the audience on a journey to the Emerald Isle with Traditional toe-tapping tunes, songs in Gaelic and English, folklore, history and Irish poetry.

Four Shillings Short, the husband/wife duo of Aodh Og O’Tuama from Cork, Ireland and Christy Martin from California, have been touring in the US & Ireland since 1997 and “bring musical diversity, captivating storytelling and humorous side notes to create an amazing show.”

They will perform Traditional and Original

Community Briefs

music from the Celtic lands on a fantastic array of instruments (over 30) including Hammered & Mountain Dulcimer, Mandolin, Mandola, Bouzouki, Tinwhistles, Recorders, Medieval and Renaissance Woodwinds, Native American Flutes, North Indian Sitar, Charango, Bowed Psaltery, Banjo, Bodhran, Guitar, Percussion, vocals and even a Krumhorn. “Their musical virtuosity makes old songs sound new and new songs sound like timeworn Celtic spells.

Four Shillings Short are independent folk-artists who perform 100 concerts a year, have released 13 recordings and live as full time Troubadours traveling from town to town performing at music festivals, theatres & performing arts centers, folk societies, libraries, house concerts and schools.

Admission is free, visit https://www.siuslawlibrary.info for more information.

Award-winning documentary about Alan Turing to be shown March 10

PFLAG will host a viewing of the award-winning documentary “Codebreaker” Monday night, March 10, at its regular meeting, starting at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Florence United Methodist Church. The event is free and open to the public.

Refreshments will be served. The church is located on the corner of Kingwood and Second Street, one block west of Hwy 101

The 80-minute documentary, released in 2014, deals with the tragic history of Alan Turing, one of the 20th century’s most important mathematicians, now considered the father of computer science. His unconventional and original mind helped the British break the German

naval Enigma code during World War II, but rather than being hailed for this triumph, he was persecuted and tried under England’s anti-gay laws. To avoid prison, he had to undergo what was then called “chemical castration,” a process that ultimately led to his suicide at the age of 41. He has since received accolades and a public apology from the British government, but his story remains one that needs to be told.

PFLAG-Florence is an affiliate of a national organization with more than 350 chapters and 200,000 members and supporters across the United States. PFLAG is the country’s largest organization working to create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.

Spotlight on Central Coast Authors

From Lens to Literature: The Birth of Ping and Zippy & Open Mic

Join the Willamette Writers Coast Chapter on March 15 at the Newport

Come take a look at our ever changing inventory!

To include your

ANCHOR OF HOPE CHURCH Live like Jesus, share His Love. 1318 Rhododendron Drive www.anchorofhopeflo.com

Sunday Service 11am Livestream on Facebook @anchorofhopeflo

BAHA’I FAITH OF FLORENCE

“What is Baha’i, and Why?” 2nd Monday 7:00 pm Interfaith Devotions 4th Monday 7:00 pm Info and meeting location: 541-590-0779 Zoom link on Facebook: Florence Baha’i Community All ARE WELCOME!

COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 4590 Hwy. 101 N, across from Fred Meyer541 997-7418

SUNDAY SERVICES - Adult Bible Study 9:30 AM; Worship 10:45 AM; High School Youth 7- 9 PM MID-WEEK- Women’s Bible Study-Tuesday 10:00-Noon and Thursday 7:00-8:00PM; Men’s Bible Study Thursday 8:00-9:30 AM; Middle School Youth Wed. 7-9 PM. Sunday Worship streams live at Community Baptist Church Facebook Page

CROSS ROAD ASSEMBLY OF GOD Corner of 10th & Maple- 541-997-3533 Sunday Services 9am 1st Service in person Sunday Services 11am 2nd Service in person & livestreamed Wednesday kids/youth night is at 6:30 NOT livestreamed.

https://www.florencecrossroadag.org/church-online Other platforms update after the service. florencecrossroadag.org office@florencecrossroadag.org

FLORENCE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

2nd & Ivy - 541-997-2961 - Non-Denominational

Service is on Sunday at 10:00 am Sunday Service also streaming live at 10am at florencechurch.com

FLORENCE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP

87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach Road

RUAUU? Come explore the answer with us. Sunday Worship Services ~ 10:00am www.florenceuuf.com

Public Library, from 2-4 p.m. when we feature Bill Posner our next Spotlight on Central Coast Authors.

A Newport photographer, he is the author of the Ping and Zippy Adventure Mysteries for ages 8-12

Drawing inspiration from Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys series, Posner’s stories feature two 13-year-old friends, a boy-Ping, and girl-Zippy, who solve mysteries along the Oregon Coast.

Posner will cover the development of his characters, how his photography influences his writing, and how his series has grown from an initial concept to his third in-progress book, The Lighthouse Legacy Mystery. He will read selected passages.

Whether he’s behind the camera or at his writing desk, Posner is dedicated to creating content with the viewer and reader in mind. He is the author of Ping and Zippy: Mystery of the Abandoned Mine and The Secret of Whale Cove: A Ping and Zippy Interactive Adventure; Whispers from the shore, a new short story collection; and Walking Newport III: Places You May Have Missed; plus, numerous coloring books, prompt journals, and photography books featuring the Oregon Coast.

Open Mic follows Posner’s talk. Participants sign up in advance and will have five minutes to read a work of their choice.

This program is co-hosted by the Newport Public Library. The WW Coast Chapter hosts presentations from September through June. Programs are free and open to all writers 18 and older. There are Young Willamette Writer chapters for those under 18 Willamette Writers is the largest writer’s association in Oregon and one of the largest in the nation. Join Willamette Writers at their website, https://willamettewriters.org.

New Art will be coming to Old Town

Continuing into March, the City of Florence’s Art Exposed Rotating Outdoor Art Gallery is installing eight new pieces of art in Historic Old Town. Art Exposed offers the community a chance to view interesting, fresh artwork every two years at a low cost, while providing artists with an opportunity to display and sell their work to a wide audience. Since 2018, this program has installed public art in Florence, first in Old Town and then on Highway 101 in the ReVision Florence Streetscape Corridor. Learn more, including information on the new art and how to purchase the art, at https://www. ci.florence.or.us/bc-pac/ art-exposed-old-town.

honorable mention team.

“I could not have scripted a better ending to our season,” McNeill said.

coaches of the Far West League, and she was a unanimous 2nd-team all-league selection. Sophomore Aidell Cadet was also recognized and selected to the league’s

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 Labyrinth & Garden daily 8am-5pm “Be the change.”

SAINT MARY, OUR LADY OF THE DUNES CATHOLIC CHURCH

1.5 miles south of river on Hwy 101 – 997-2312 Mass Times: Daily: Tue, Wed, Fri 9:00 AM Adoration & Confession Fri 9:30-10:30 AM Saturday 5:30 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM Fr. Amir Welcomes All to Attend

The senior captain core of Bender, Sophia Montoya, and Macy McNeill were some of the longest-tenured members of the team, and they were also the team’s leaders.

“I was blessed with great senior leadership,” McNeill said. “They understand my coaching philosophy and expectations as well as the importance of hard work, dedication and playing together as a ‘family.’ Seniors and returning players did a great job mentoring the younger athletes and accepted them into our team ‘family.’

Leaning on the seniors and the coaching staff, the younger players “improved dramatically in their fundamental skills” and gained a better understanding of basketball. Part of McNeill’s job as a coach was to keep the team motivated and driven, even when the wins were “far and few between.”

But even when it was hard, the team never stopped believing.

“I am proud to say this group of girls continued to work hard throughout the entire season,” McNeill said. “This group conducted themselves respectfully and played the game the right way, with consistent effort, teamwork, and sportsmanship.”

As is the case for all student-athletes, taking on a sport while in school is a balancing act, and something McNeill lauded his team for was their academic excellence. The varsity team has a combined 3 74 GPA and was recently nominated for the OSAA (OnPoint Community Credit Union) Academic AllState team.

“These athletes are the true definition of a student-athlete,” McNeill said. “This team is a great group of girls that represented Siuslaw High School and the Florence community very well.”

Jim Davis, Sales

Facing The Fear And Anxiety Of The Unknown

Submitted by STAN POPOVICH

Almost everybody worries about what will happen in the future. The prospect of not knowing if something good or bad will happen can produce a lot of fear and anxiety.

As a result, here are seven ways on how to deal with the fear of the unknown.

1. No one can predict the future with one hundred percent certainty: Even if the thing that you fear does happen there are circumstances and factors that you can’t predict which can be used to your advantage.

For instance, you miss the deadline for a project you have been working on. Everything you feared is coming true. Suddenly, your boss tells you that the deadline is extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before. This unknown factor changes everything.

2. Take it one day at a time: Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or coming months, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new

things and that includes learning how to deal with your problems. When the time comes, hopefully you will have learned the skills to deal with your situation.

3. Use SelfVisualization: Sometimes, we can get anxious over a task that we will have to perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you have to play in the championship volleyball game in front of a large group of people in the next few days. Before the big day comes, imagine yourself playing the game in your mind. By doing this, you will be better prepared when the time comes.

4. Take a break: Take a

deep breath and try to find something to do to get your mind off of your anxieties and stresses. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper, watch TV, play on the computer, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. This will distract you from your current worries.

5. Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking: When encountering thoughts that make you fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. Focus on the reality of your situation and not on your thoughts.

6. Worrying can make the problem worse: All the worrying in the world will not change anything. All you can do is to do your best each day, hope for the best, and when something does happen, take it in stride. If you still have trouble dealing with the fear of the future, then talking to a counselor or clergyman can be of great help.

7. Get some help: Sometimes, it helps to be able to talk to someone about your stressful situations. Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or clergyman can give you additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. In time, you will become better able to deal

CENTER

Do you have a desire to serve your community? Peace Harbor Medical Center may be the place for you. At Peace Harbor, we strive to provide compassionate, high quality, accessible health care and to promote a healthy community. We value having community volunteers in various aspects throughout the healthcare system. For more information and to obtain an application visit the Gift Shop or Front Lobby Desk at Peace Harbor Medical Center at 400 9th Street, Florence, Oregon.

Us Too Florence