Court kicks off Rhody Days
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
The Florence City Council was introduced to the Rhododendron Court May 5
SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
Oregon Coast Humane Society recognized its top volunteers of 2024 with a special event April 30. OCHS Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson said that in 2024 volunteers donated over 19,000 hours of service for the animals and people of Florence.
“That equates to nine fulltime employees, so they almost doubled our workforce,” she said!. We are truly a volunteer-powered organization!”
Thompson said the turnout for the celebration was great, adding, “Over 50 people came to the event and were treated to a slide show and movie style snacks. The event
See OCHS, Page A4
when it was proclaimed by Mayor Rob Ward that May is Rhododendron Festival Month.
Prince Nyte DeLeon said he plans to attend Oregon State University after high school to
pursue a career in nursing first and pediatric medicine later.
Princess Ashlyn Hart said that after graduating, she will also enroll at OSU to study biology and nutrition on a pre-med
path. She added that she was informed just before the meeting that she will also be on the OSU Beavers Cheer Team.
Princess Macali Lade said she will attend Washington State
High School counting down to graduation
SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
Principal Mike Harklerode, aka Mr. H., gave the Florence City Council an update on all things going on and coming up at Siuslaw High School.
“This is a very, very busy time of year for our seniors,” Harklerode said. “Project Graduation is sneaking up on us and the 31st. It’s the all-night party for seniors so we keep them safe and sane and keep them all in one place and return them the
next day.” he said this is the first year that that are doing it during the school year.
He said that soon, senior road signs will go up along Highway 101 before being brought back to the high school for students to pick up after graduation.
“One of the most thrilling things for me is seeing the kids over the grand span that I have them. More than half of our graduates this year have gone though K-12 on Oak Street,” he said.
“So, 13 years in our school system is pretty cool.”
Harklerode said most kids are making plans for after high school and several intend to enroll in colleges around the country.
“Twelve different colleges, and eight different states from Hawaii to Boston and even in Paris are destinations for our students for next year,” he said. “Some are also headed to Army, Navy
See GRADUATION, Page A4
and become a certified nurse anesthetist, while also minoring in wildlife biology in hopes of
COURT, Page A4
Candidates answer questions before May 20 election
COMPILED by TONY REED Siuslaw News
Six candidates are on the ballot for three Siuslaw School District Board seats in the May 20 election. Since the election was first noticed, this paper has been receiving formal and informal requests to query board candidates on a variety of issues, ranging from the recent removal of a book from the high school library
to concerns about the Trump administration’s proposed reductions and changes to education nationwide.
Those questions and others were emailed to the candidates via the addresses they provided to the county elections office. Four candidates responded but no reply was received from King.
In an email response, Barnett said he felt some questions were political and no further response was received.
Some candidates also attended local forums April 30 and May 8 Answers given by King and Barnett to similar questions included in the voter pamphlet were included where applicable.
Why are you running for a school board seat and what are your qualifications for doing so?
Pollut: I am running
See ELECTION, Page A4
University to study nursing
Above left, Shelter Volunteer of the Year Cynthia Beck. Above right, Jon Marcotte, pictured with his husband Pat Kirkpatrick. Jon is the one holding the cookie jar. Right, Mother/daughter team Trudy and Krisi Maderos. Photos provided See
I’m voting for Maureen Miltenberger for the Siuslaw School Board for a number of reasons. I’m not a parent of a child currently in the district, nor am I a teacher in the district. I am, however, an interested citizen living in the Florence area who wants a school board with the philosophy of providing a well-rounded education –– not a school board that gets hung up on censorship. (Banning something only makes it more sought after.)
Maureen Miltenberger has a background as a teacher, substitute teacher, and tutor working with children. She also has a background in administration dealing with children and their families in many aspects of life. And she has been an active member of the Siuslaw School Board since 2021, including being current Vice Chairperson.
Maureen Miltenberger is a volunteer tutor helping first graders learn to read. For that, I applaud her. She is hands on; seeing for herself what goes on in a classroom. In my opinion, first grade is THE most important grade and not the easiest grade to teach because first graders absolutely must be able to read (the most important skill taught in school) before going on to second grade. I taught second grade for five years before feeling ready to teach first grade. Then I taught first graders for 17 years. Seeing that light of understanding click on in a child’s eyes on a daily basis made it very rewarding. I had no paid aides back then, but I used many of my student’s parents as aides, and I would have loved someone like Maureen Miltenberger volunteering in my classroom. For all these reasons, Maureen Miltenberger is supremely qualified to continue on the Siuslaw School Board. I hope you, like me, will vote for her, so she can continue her good work. (300 words) Judy Fleagle Florence
I attended the Siuslaw School Board Candidates Forum held at the Greentrees Club house recently along with many other community members. Thank you Greentrees for hosting this important event in preparation for our May 20th special election.
Two candidates did not attend, Maygan Hiatt and Dennis King; Ms. Hiatt sent a surrogate to tell us that she was “busy with end-of-the month escrows” and Mr. King’s reason for absence is a mystery. Serving on our school board demands long hours, commitment to schedules and a dedication to our students; so both of these no-shows lost my vote. Excellent discussions ensued among the candidates presenting themselves and their reasons to earn our votes as both the moderator and passionate audience members asked questions. Two of the most pressing issues were the recent banning of a book by certain members of the school board and the whole too long history of a local charter school. Current member John Barnett tried repeatedly to defend both the process and his own personal set of “moral standards” to remove the book from the high school library. Apparently he felt like the opinion of the diverse committee of community members who reviewed the book and recommended it be kept in
the library as an important resource for any gay teen who is bullied so relentlessly that he contemplates suicide, was neither valuable nor credible.
Candidates Maureen Miltenberger, a current board member, Adrian Pollut, and Tom Posegate, all spoke eloquently about serving the needs of all our students, and presented themselves as informed, caring, and reflective listeners more than talkers. Given all the challenges facing our local board, we need these critical thinkers, those who reflect the values of the majority of our community and respect educators.
As a former educator with 50 years of teaching and administrative experience in every level from high school to community college to university, I can state unequivocally that tomorrow’s students must be prepared with 21st Century communication and work skills; achieving that goal will only happen by challenging them to stretch and grow.
Let’s vote accordingly Renee LoPilato Florence
I encourage everyone to read Will Yurman’s coverage of the upcoming school board elections: https://www.westofthetunnel.org/2025/04/29/ school-board-elections-25/ Note that three candidates shared their views -- in writing and in video interviews -- and three refused. For me, that’s a huge “tell,” and it’s a big part of the reason I’ll be voting for Maureen Miltenberger, Adrian Pollut, and Tom Posegate. Bruce Hadley Florence
BECOME A LOCAL LEADER
Each year, I gather the statistics regarding the vote for candidates and tax/ regulation ballot measures. These have remained consistent since 1997; twenty-eight years. Here they are for “entire” Lane County: 9% no candidate filed
66% one person filed
25% provided a choice
50% voters cast a vote
70% tax measures pass Lane County citizens are extremely happy with those making public decisions for them and in having an increasing tax/regulatory burden. The 25% typically only have a choice between two candidates.
Here’s a thought, throw a party and ask all your friends to write in your name on one of those 9% positions where no one
filed. For instance, the Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue (SVFR) district has two vacancies with no one who paid the 10$ fee. These guys are on the Board of Directors supporting your fire and ambulance first responders! There are twenty more positions throughout Lane County area to be decided by the few who write in the same name. It might only take a single name written in; just make sure they are eighteen years old and in the same “tax district” with you. Keith Stanton Florence
It has been my privilege to server as a member of the Siuslaw Public Library District board since 2020
During my 5 years of service, I have worked to be informed on the needs of the District, to be educated on the role of special district board member, and to support the district as both a board member and a volunteer with the Friends of the Library . I care passionately about the future of our library and am very motivated to protect its role as a critical inclusive resource for all in our community. While my years on the boards of Seacoast Entertainment and Western Lane Community Foundation gave me a foundation, learning to serve on a public entity board was a new experience. My goal is to continue to use that experience in support of the SPLD.
Our library is well positioned for the future with a solid financial foundation and thorough well documented policies which provide us with the structure to meet future challenges. Experience matters and I am committed, with your support, to using mine serving the Siuslaw Public Library District. I would appreciate your vote. Use your voice, VOTE Sandy Kuhlman Florence
I learned recently that the school board summarily dismissed fourteen educators with little notice or opportunity for public input. If I didn’t know any better I would think that Florence was magically moved from Oregon to Tennessee where we have some of the worst public schools in the country.
I’ve been gratified with the quality of education our grandchildren have been provided in the Siuslaw Public School District.
That seems to be in jeopardy now if the current school board isn’t willing to consider all viable alternatives before taking the
“easiest” path and cutting teachers. The quality of public education is a clear indicator of quality of life in a community. Firing qualified staff in an already under-staffed school system will adversely affect the quality of education the children of Florence receive.
As a community you will soon have an opportunity to elect three new members to your school board - Pollut, Miltenberger and Posegate – who will be more thoughtful. Please support them. For the children’s sake.
Mark Riebau Nashville, Alabama
Editor’s note: While position reductions were selected in response to increased PERS costs, federal fund reductions and loss of enrollment income, the budget process is ongoing and reductions won’t be formally adopted until the May 14 meeting of the Siuslaw School Board. District Superintendent Andy Grzeskowiak estimated that four layoffs will be the most likely result of the final decision.
I AM WRITING BECAUSE WE NEED CHANGE IN THE SCHOOL BOARD.
The current school board is focused on things that add nothing to the education of our local students. Instead, they approved a charter school that will take money away from our schools. They also banned a book against the recommendations of librarians and teachers.
We currently have a problem with medical providers leaving the area. This directly impacts everyone in the area, particularly our elderly population. Think about how hard it is to get into your primary care provider for an appointment. Think about how hard it is to get established with a medical provider at all.
We need strong schools in order to attract young highly educated professionals, many of whom have children. Florence is a great place to live, with tremendous outdoor pursuits and wonderful people. Beyond that, we need to assure these medical professionals that they can stay here because our schools will be able to provide their children all possible opportunities to succeed.
We need a school board that will actually support the students and our hard working teachers.
Timothy Friedman Florence
Of course, it’s
We’ll
Probably not, it’s hard to find parking in Old Town
We have other plans this year
family. I really want our schools to be the very best they can be, and to help all our kids reach their greatest potential. I am a Siuslaw graduate, a mom of elementary school children, a business professional and a community volunteer. I am in contact with all different segments of our community and I listen and I learn every day. My work background and my current career is all customer service and relationship building. I will bring these experiences and qualifications to the board.
Miltenberger: I am the incumbent for position 4 and feel that I am very qualified to remain in that position. I’ve been the vice chairperson of the board for the past three years. In that position I assist the chairperson and superintendent in preparing the agenda for the upcoming meeting which gives me a strong insight into what current issues our board, staff and community are facing in educating our students. I have also been a member of the policy committee for the entire time I have been on the board and am now a member of the facilities committee.
I have attended all of the Summer and Winter Oregon School Board statewide conferences. Attending the conferences has given me extensive training in board governance while allowing me to learn how other districts are facing the ever changing educational system.
Posegate: Im a father of three daughters all born and raised right here in Florence. My oldest daughter is in first grade at Siuslaw elementary and I’ve had the privilege of volunteering in her class once a week. I want to help our schools be the best they can be for my daughters, and all the children of this town we love.
I have a bachelors degree in American history from Simpson University.
In highschool and college I spent my summers as a volunteer camp counselor for four years and later a director for one year.
After graduating college I worked as a facility manager for four years.
I’ve worked as a substitute teacher here in Florence and had the opportunity to fill jobs in all three schools in a variety of roles. But the most important and challenging job I’ve had by far is as a full time father to three wonderful and energetic girls. Diapers, bottles, playgroups, sports practices, homework etc. It’s a full time job and a half and it pays in smiles and hugs.
As a school board member, I will always be trying to put our kids first. I am strong believer in supporting public education, in the words of Thomas Jefferson, “An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.”
King: [per the Lane County voters pamphlet] my family lives in education. My wife of 35 years and I taught at the elementary level for decades. Both of our fathers were educators, my father taught mathematics for 30 years in K-12, and hers is English at the University level. Now, both of our children are educators in public education, too.
As an educational community, our primary function is to teach our children to be lyrics in the language arts, and arithmetic, in scientific processes, and in history, then enrich their education with the myriad of concepts important to social life. Our board has failed to demand the district leader ship prioritize efforts and resources to this end. We are passing and graduating students who are not educated at a level that prepares them for success. Test scores are showing how deficient our students are, and in our community- especially local employers, see these deficiencies every day. We must figure out how to innovatively address this growing problem.
If we value high academic standards and achievement, we must elect people to the board who can contribute to the process. I am a fine candidate and I urge you to join me in returning to our focus on educating our children toward their highest potential.
Barnett: [per the Lane County Voters pamphlet] as a proud Siuslaw graduate, a longtime resident, and father of five children who have all attended the Siuslaw School District, I have a deep and personal investment in our schools. My youngest son is still in high school, and my first grandchild just 13 months old, will soon be part of this community’s future. Florence has been my home for decades- I work here, play here, and I am deeply committed to the success of our students, families, and educators. For the past 12 years I have served on the Siuslaw School Board, facing challenges and making tough decisions that impact our schools. I have always prioritized being a good listener, asking important questions, and ensuring that our district supports both families and teachers. Leadership requires making difficult choices, and I have never shied away from that responsibility.
What do you feel are the top needs of Siuslaw School District and how can the board work toward, and fulfill, those needs?
Pollut: Our school district needs leadership that focuses on community voice and that uses time and resources wisely. I believe that a great amount of time and money have been wasted to create policy that is of interest to very few people in our community.
Hiatt: Focusing on excellence in the basics especially reading and math • Keeping politics out of the classroom
• Encouraging more engagement between families and schools I specifically plan to focus a lot of energy on engagement, building bridges and encouraging our schools to do the same. The Board, administration and teacher need to be the ones to actively reach out and seek to connect with our families and the community.
Miltenberger: Our district this year is facing financial cutbacks due to a variety of reasons. Several positions within our district have either been combined, redefined or eliminated altogether. Our board needs to work together more than ever to support our administration, teachers, and staff during this difficult transition.
Our mission statement
for the Siuslaw School District is “Motivating and Preparing ALL Students to Reach Their Highest Potential”. DEI is being threatened nationally by our current administration. I want to continue to be a director so that I can support the board and administration in helping to protect each of our students.
Posegate: We desperately need better communication and cooperation between our schools and our community. We need people on our school board that listen to and value input from our community and school staff. But that also seek out that input, don’t just wait for it to come. Ask questions, go to meetings, reach out. And when people do respond, treat them with respect and thank them for their voice, even if we don’t always agree.
Do you agree with the Board’s recent decision/ vote to remove the book Flamer from the school library? What are your reasons?
Pollut: Absolutely not.
Our schools are staffed by experts in their fields. When asked for a review, our librarian used nationally approved rating systems and concluded it was an appropriate book for the high school library. This for some reason was insufficient. So the board asked the community, in the form of a committee, to read and review the book. They too decided it was appropriate for the school library. In an incredibly unsportsmanlike manner certain school board members decided to “take their ball and go home”. Despite the voices of the community as represented by the volunteer review committee and public comment, they instead used their majority voting power to make a decision counter to those voices.
I don’t like book banning on principle, it is a practice that has been used to silence marginalized voices for generations. I especially dislike it when it is undertaken against the will of a community and the advice of experts.
Hiatt: I think we could have come up with a solution that would have been palatable to both sides of this issue: I would have suggested that we have a place in the library where books can be placed that require a student to be 18 or to have the permission of their parents.
Miltenberger: I was one of the three board members who voted to have the book remain on the shelf. I stated my reasons at the meeting throughout the board discussion. We had several members of our staff, members of the committee who made the decision to keep the book on the shelf, and members of the community at large, speak at the meeting all stating why they thought the book should remain in our high school library. One of the main reasons stated is that the book Flamer is a suicide prevention book, especially for the LGBTQ plus community. Yes, the book had graphic pictures, yes, the book had language in it that we would prefer that our youth not speak or hear. But if that language saves the life of a student who is going through a difficult time then it needs to be there. Again our mission statement speaks to ALL students.
Posegate: I do not
agree with this decision. I read the book, I watched the board meeting. The book was reviewed by the school librarian, high school librarian, district librarian, city library director, city children’s librarian, and an independent committee, all of whom recommended against removing the book from the library. I would have listened to these experts.
Barnett: [per the Lane County Voters pamphlet] recently I voted to support the removal of a book from our high school library. This decision was not made out of bias, but out of a deep commitment to protecting our students. While I do not support banning books for adults, I believe that we must be mindful of the materials available to children in our schools. Just as we regulate access to certain websites and social media on our school computers, we must apply the same level of responsibility to our library collections. And to be clear, I have a married gay son whom I love and support- this
decision was never about discriminating but about ensuring age-appropriate content in our schools. However, this election is about far more than a single issue. Give me your thoughts on the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment as it relates to public schools.
Pollut: Our schools should be a place where all people are treated equally. Every person is entitled to their personal beliefs but when you use those beliefs to harm others you are violating those people’s First Amendment rights.
Hiatt: The establishment clause ensures a separation of church and state, protecting religious freedom by preventing government from establishing or endorsing religion. I don’t think religion should be promoted in school via tax dollars because tax dollars = state or government and church and state clearly are to be separate. I do believe as an individual students should be able to participate in their own religion as a means of freedom of speech, even in school.
Miltenberger: One of the major reasons our country was founded was
for freedom of speech and religion. That to me means that people are free to practice any religion or no religion. To have one religion practiced in public schools does not honor what I feel is the purpose of the amendment. Our school district teaches about all religions and should of course continue to do so. Every student no matter what their religious belief should be able to learn in our district without feeling that their beliefs are not respected.
Posegate: The bill of rights was written at a time when most nations had an established religion. England was Anglican, Italy was Catholic, etc.
The first amendment was written by people of varying faiths who knew that establishing a state religion would never represent everyone. Quakers, Puritans, Anglicans, Jews Catholics and more all agreed that to pick any one faith would threaten religious freedom for all others.
I went to a private Christian University where I studied American History. I believe in education, and I believe faith and learning can co exist. However, when we start putting laws and tax dollars behind our education, we’ll then we need to provide a safe environment for everyone. And to put any one religion or denomination into our public schools is a violation of religious freedom for all others.
Do you believe that all students deserve to have the educational system “meet them where they are” and that ALL children are entitled to the best education they can receive? If yes, how will
you as a board member, protect this right?
Pollut: Yes, I do believe that. As a board member I will never vote for policies intended to harm a group of students no matter what language it is couched in. I will always advocate for student safety, for student achievement, and for our schools to be a place that kids feel they are supported in.
Hiatt: Yes. I do believe that kids deserve the best education they can receive and I think that involves giving families input in what that looks like for their children and offering options and flexibility in education.
Miltenberger: Yes. I quoted the district’s mission statement in a question above which contains the word ALL in it. I will continue to work hard so that the definition of ALL means each and every student no matter who they are. Our district does an amazing job of educating all of our students. Our Special Education program is one of the best. Even though we do not have a highly diverse population here in Florence, I do see many students who meet that definition as I am volunteering in our elementary school, and attending school events. Our staff work hard every day to accommodate all of our students.
Posegate: Absolutely. Every child is so different. Even my own daughters are so completely unique despite being in the same family. I have to make more than one vegetable choice for dinner because one loves broccoli and one will only eat carrots.
Not everyone learns the same way. Not everyone speaks the same way. When the school board makes decisions it should welcome and seek input from parents and teachers in how we can meet the needs of our students. And what works with one class may not work for the next.
How do you feel about the Department of Homeland Security’s rescinded policy that
schools are no longer protected areas and that agents may conduct enforcement actions in public schools?
Pollut: Every student should feel safe in their school regardless of who they are.
Hiatt: Oregon is a Sanctuary State. Our public schools are not allowed to provide information or assistance to federal officials regarding this topic. You can go to osba.org to learn more about this topic as well.
Miltenberger: I am glad that our school district is in Oregon, a sanctuary state where information or assistance cannot be provided to immigration officials unless they have a judicial subpoena. Our superintendent of schools agrees that our students need to be protected in every way possible. He continues to provide information to our staff as to the proper procedure in allowing ICE to enter our schools.
Posegate: I’d prefer to not discuss national politics. Every child in Florence has a right to a safe learning environment. What can the community of Florence do to support and assist the schools and help to improve education in Siuslaw School District?
Pollut: Get out to board meetings! Offer public comment. Learn about what your school board does at a policy level. Beyond that, open lines of communication with administrators and teachers. You will be incredibly impressed by the people who administrate and teach at our schools. I know I am.
Hiatt: I think the school district and the community should be partners in building a bright future for our youth. The school district could do a better job being responsive to the community and reaching out and engaging them and listening to their ideas and even concerns. I would love to create a new culture and help build bridges between teachers, families and the community.
Miltenberger: Volunteer! Attend school events such as Hispanic night, school concerts etc. Keep informed as to important decisions being made in our school community and express concerns as you have them. Get involved! Respect the professional work that our staff does every day for our students.
Posegate: Come to school board meetings. Volunteer in the schools. Sign up for the PTA. Come to school events. Buy your kid’s teacher a coffee gift card. If you can, sign up for a committee, or one of the great non profit family focused organizations in town. Some of our students face housing or food insecurity. It’s really hard to focus on word problems about apples when you aren’t sure if you’ll get dinner that night. Treat others with kindness and respect.
Is there anything else you would like the community to know about you?
Pollut: I am committed to this community. I work hard to make this place the very best it can be every day and I see that the people of this town do the same. This place is filled with people that care about kids more than politics and I want you to know that I do too. Regardless of if you vote for me or not I will do my very best to make sure your kids, every kid, gets the school they deserve. Hiatt: I am one of the hardest working people you will ever meet. Whatever I do, I do it 110%. I am passionate about the school’s role in helping students become successful members of society and believe that starts with excellence in education. I am proud of my Siuslaw education and want my kids to be proud of it too. But we have work to do to bring our academics to a higher level. I will give 110% to that. I think our community can help with it if we ask. We don’t have funding for a reading specialist at the middle school but we need one? Ok. Let’s find community partners with the expertise to help meet this need. I have the attitude of “How can we make this happen” and the ability to see it through.
Miltenberger: I worked as the director of a program in Clackamas County that provided food, clothes, and other forms of assistance to families in need. I have also been the Executive Director of a Community Action Agency in Idaho and Washington that provided similar programs to citizens. As the director of a self-sufficiency program in Oregon City, I assisted families to be able to break the cycle of depending on government housing.
I am endorsed by several community members including two past school board members Suzanne Mann-Heintz and Bob Sneddon. I feel very proud to have gained the respect of many of our staff due to several difficult issues that have come before our board. As a result I have the endorsement of the Siuslaw Education Association which is our teachers’ union.
Posegate: I’m really excited for the opportunity to help our schools! My daughters love to learn. I want to support that love of learning for them, and for all the kids in this town we love.
SPORTS & LIFESTYLE
Florence Chamber announces Rhododendron Festival Lineup
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting everyone to the 118th edition of the Florence Rhododendron Festival.
The family friendly Oregon institution takes place May 15 to 18 2025. This year’s theme is “Rhodies on the River.”
“It’ll be another year of fun as we celebrate our local natural beauty and floral superstars. We invite everyone to come to Florence—Oregon’s Coastal Playground—and enjoy the fun and pageantry of the state’s second-longest running floral festival,” said Chamber president/ CEO Bettina Hannigan.
“Rhody Fest,” is the second-oldest flower festival in Oregon, just one year younger than the Portland Rose Festival and the third oldest on the West Coast behind the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena, California.
“Thousands come from around
the world to celebrate with us every year on the third full weekend in May,” added Hannigan.
“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
Rhodies
are the reason for the festival
The City of Rhododendrons is living up to its name. Flowers are in abundance all over town and we are anxious to share them at our annual MAY RHODODENDRON SHOW. Doors open at about noon (after judging is completed) and close at 5 on Saturday and 10 to 5 on Sunday. Plant sales will be from 10 to 5 each day. It has been an interesting Spring. Temperatures were mild, the rain disappeared for a while and many flowers opened early. Because of these circumstances we should have a plethora of trusses to exhibit. This is open to everyone at no cost and we encourage you to bring your beautiful trusses to the Florence Events Center between 7 and 9AM Saturday the 17th of May. Our members will be on hand
to assist in identification and placement of your prize-winning entrees.
A few basic guidelines to follow: select a truss with the straightest stem and the most completely open flowers but not past their prime. A full collar of leaves with minimal damage is as important as the flowers themselves. Remember, everyone has had the same weather so don’t worry about them being perfect. This is your chance to win a blue ribbon or even a great trophy.
There will also be a plant sale during the Show. Hours are 10 to 5 each day. This is your opportunity to find that special Rhody you’ve been looking for to add to your collection.
Any questions, call: 541-5795544 or Day817@outlook.com
Florence Golf Links Returns to Its Roots as Sandpines
In a heartfelt revival of one of Oregon’s most beloved golf destinations, Florence Golf Links is officially returning to its original identity as Sandpines Golf Links.
New owners Tara Bahl and Andrew Arredondo, a young married couple from Los Angeles, have relocated to Florence with a shared vision and deep commitment to both the course and the broader Oregon golfing community.
Bahl and Arredondo have reached out to Rees Jones Inc., the original course design firm, to
explore potential collaboration and ensure any future improvements reflect the spirit of the original layout. Earlier this year, Greg Muirhead, one of the original architects of Sandpines, traveled to Florence to meet with the new owners and begin building a relationship around the course’s ongoing stewardship and development.
Plans are underway to reopen the restaurant and bar, creating a welcoming hub for golfers and locals alike. Brent Holley, the newly appointed Food & Beverage Manager,
passion
ty-driven dining. Their
Submitted by EVELYN LOVELACE Part One O f Six
Several years ago, married couple Pat and Mike Allen were visiting Florence on an extended RV trip up and down the coast. While camping at Harbor Vista and asking around for places to visit, a local resident told them about an old, unmarked trailhead off of Rhododendron Drive, within walking distance of the camp.
Little did they know that this innocuous little path into the undergrowth would so energize Mike that five years later he would be talking with county officials and helping organize work parties to protect what lay beyond.
That unmarked path off of Rhododendron, maintained informally (and possibly illegally) by people not presently
known, leads to a perhaps lesser known jewel in Florence’s crown: Three Mile Prairie County Park.
NAMES CAN BE MISLEADING
Despite its name, Three Mile Prairie is not three miles long, it isn’t a prairie, and it’s not entirely a natural park, either. It is instead a 174-acre patch of land owned and managed by Lane County nestled within a complex nest of private developments, owner-occupied housing, family trust assets, BLM land, state mandates against development, and city-owned property earmarked for future water resource development. These lines of jurisdiction, zoning, and protected environmental designations run arbitrarily across a diverse and unique set of microbiomes, from
sand dunes to wetlands, jungle-like forest to open patches of beach grasses and shore pine. Three Mile Prairie is something rare within the urban growth boundary of Florence: undeveloped land alive with ecosystems that have not yet been rewritten by human hands.
It is also in a state of damage and disrepair. Surrounded on all sides by private property and BLM land, Three Mile Prairie has no official access points and no official park infrastructure. The informal trail Mike and Pat were told of runs through undeveloped land owned by the Barnett Revocable Trust. And it serves its purpose admirably...until the rains come and flood it with knee-deep water. You can also, as many do, park in the northwestern corner of the Fred
Meyer parking lot and hike across the dunes.
Once there, however, access to the main loop trail remains elusive as there are no clear markers and the terrain is both highly variable and has few clear landmarks.
There is supposedly a path in the north-western section of the wetlands that leads to Jerry’s Place from the unnamed dunes. But such a trail would require walking through county-, city-, and privately-owned land through dense forests and fickle wetlands.
The park shares a large border with Florence Golf Links and Fairway Estates that could provide access. But only if a path was cleared through the undergrowth, and if public access were given through the gated community. More recently in the park’s history is, well...
Three Mile Prairie, a nearby development that takes its name from the park in a way that interferes with the park’s visibility on search engines.
Three Mile Prairie Development is being carved out of a patch of dunes adjacent to the county park, and if its current ambitions are met will build housing right up to the edge of the natural wetland. The development could be an asset for a public access point, though Mike Allen is worried the construction might cause damage to both the wetlands and the rare dunes ecosystem its construction is set to cut in half. Which is to say nothing of Big Rock Trashy Mountain, the name given to the large pile of fill and possibly other debris in the middle
brings years of hospitality experience and a
for communi-
goal is to see the
full transformation — from branding to amenities — completed by the end of May. Sandpines Golf Links
invites golfers and community members to stay tuned for reopening announcements and upcoming events.
FUUF hosts “Imagination - The Spark in Creation”
Some of us have studied a creative process that is composed of mind, idea, and expression. First is mind, then mind expresses itself in ideas, then ideas make themselves manifest in consciousness and in
Community Briefs
the physical world. It is the orderly process or sequence by which everything comes into existence. The most important element in this process is imagination for it is the spark that ignites and moves the creation much like the spark plugs in an engine. Join us on May 18th as Donna Smith returns to FUUF to help us learn how to use our
imagination to bring forth glorious creations.
Date: May 18, 2025
Location: Florence UU Fellowship - 87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach road
Time: Doors open at 9:30 a.m.; Service begins at 10:00 a.m..
Everyone is welcomeincluding well-behaved dogs
For more information, please contact: Sally Wantz ~ Florence. Unitarian@gmail.com
Garden Club’s May Events
On May 14th, the Garden Club will host Glenda Sylsberry, a Master Gardener, presenting “Medicinal Plants and Weeds”. Plants included in Glenda’s talk will be sage, plantain, and nettle. This program will take place at the Presbyterian Church of the Community at 3996 Hwy. 101 at 1:00 p.m. on May 14th. There will be no admission fee and community members are invited to attend.
Veterans Day Observance
Join in honoring the memory of those who sacrificed everything
so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have today. Come to Veterans Memorial Park May 26 at 1 p.m.. The ceremony is free to the public and people are encouraged to attend. The park is located at the corner of Kingwood and Bay Street. For more information contact Richard Lewis, DAV chapter 23, at 541-901-9268
Oregon House Passes Bill to Remove Offensive Names From Oregon’s Waterways, Valleys and More
Today, the House voted to advance the Dignity in Place Act, HB 3532. The bill, led by Representative Tawna Sanchez (D-Portland), would expedite a multi-decade effort to rename derogatorily named waterways, valleys, roads and more, in Oregon including Squaw Creek (Douglas County), Chinaman Hat (Josephine County) and Cannibal Mountain (Lincoln County).
In 2021, the U.S. Department of the Interior established a process to review and replace derogatory names of U.S. federal lands, including the slur “squaw.”
“Renaming offensive locations in Oregon reflects our shared
commitment to mutual respect, historical truth and creating a welcoming environment for all Oregonians,” said Rep. Sanchez. “My hope is that no one has to drive in any wonderful part of the state of Oregon and feel like they don’t belong there.”
The bill builds on legislation from thenSen. Kate Brown passed in 2001 (HB488) to eliminate derogatory geographic names from Oregon. The 2001 legislation came at the request of two women from the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Since then, the Oregon Historical Society has compiled a list of 107 geographic locations bearing offensive names, but many remain unchanged. In testimony, former Gov. Kate Brown argued that HB 3532 is focused much more broadly and will work with the Oregon Historical Society to move forward this important work to make all Oregonians feel represented.
“The next generation shouldn’t have to grow up seeing slurs on signs and thinking it’s just something they have to live with,” said Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Oregon City). “It’s long past time we step up, take responsibility, and remove them from our maps and landmarks.”
The bill now moves to the Senate.
HAVE FUN! BEACH SAFE!
BEWARE THE SNEAKER WAVE
They´re called sneaker waves because they appear without warning, often surging high up on the beach with deadly force, and are impossible to predict. Sneaker waves also carry a large amount of sand that can saturate your clothes, weighing you down and making escape difficult if not impossible.
How to play it safe: Never turn your back on the ocean.
WATCH THOSE LOGS
The ocean is strong enough to pick up even the biggest log and plop it down on top of you. Some logs may look small, but even the tiny ones can be waterlogged and weigh tons.
How to play it safe: If you see a log in the surf or on wet sand, stay off it.
RIP CURRENTS
Rip currents are strong currents of water that rush out to sea. They are stronger than even the best swimmer. These currents can swiftly sweep unwary beachcombers and waders off their feet and out to sea. Rip currents may appear as dark, choppy water. Any time you see debris and foam floating out to sea, chances are you have found a rip current. Avoid the area.
How to play it safe: Parents keep your kids close when playing in the ocean. If caught in a rip current, don’t panic Swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the current, then head for the beach.
KNOW THE TIDES
Incoming tides isolate rocks from headlands and the shore. Avoid the temptation of strolling out to an interesting rock without knowing when the tide rolls back in. Free tide tables are readily available at state park offices, information centers and many shops and motels.
How to play it safe: Stay off rocks and small, enclosed beaches.
Know when the tide is coming in by visiting the tidetable website at the Hatfield Marine Science Center http://weather.hmsc.oregonstate.edu/weather/ tides/tides.html
HIGH WAVES CAN REACH YOU
Tides and waves can sweep over rocks, jetties and headlands, knocking you off and carrying you out to sea.
How to play it safe: Assume nothing is “high enough” and avoid exposed rocks, jetties and headlands during strong wave action (like during and after storms).
BEWARE OF HIGH, STEEP CLIFFS
Assume that all cliff edges are unstable. Wet trails or soft sand and earth can make for unstable footing. Rocks can be slippery even when it isn’t raining. How to play it safe: Make sure you wear proper footwear, and stick to the trails. Stay behind guard fences and railings, and don´t get too close to the edge.
HEADS UP
Standing at the base of an Oceanside cliff can be dangerous, especially if it has an overhang. In some places, winter storms and high waves have eroded the shoreline, increasing the chance of collapse and slides.
How to play it safe: Beware of falling rocks, and don´t climb on bluffs and eroding hillsides. Don´t walk along the base of cliffs unless absolutely necessary.
shopping and dining in Old Town and all around town,” adds Hannigan. “It’s a family tradition, an Oregon institution.”
Hannigan reports that the festival, with its carnival, Rhododendron Court, parades, classic car cruise, vendor fair, and flower shows, serves as the unofficial kickoff to the summer tourism season—a season that adds nearly
Three Mile
From Page B1
of the dunes that could be in either BLM jurisdiction or on Three Mile Prairie
$300 million to the local economy each year and employs about 2700 of the roughly 5000 workers in Florence.
The festival opens the Saturday prior to the third weekend in May (May 10 2025) with the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, the King of the Coast, and their royal court at the Florence Events Center; followed by Thursday’s (May 15) opening of the Davis Shows Carnival at the Port of Siuslaw property in Old Town. Saturdays traditionally
Development itself, depending on where the survey lines lie. While Allen doesn’t have proof of its danger, he worries that runoff from the large mound may be of danger to the
feature the annual 5K Rhody Run and Walk, the junior parade and kids’ activities, the annual and the Coast Radio Classic Car Cruise through Old Town. Saturday’s 31st Annual Rhody Classic Car Show ‘n’ Shine. Sunday brings the grand floral parade, beginning at noon, down Highway 101 from 27th St. and into Historic Old Town.
Throughout the event, there will be a vendor fair in Old Town (Maple Street), a spectacular rhododendron show, and the
wetlands almost immediately adjacent to it, or the substantial piles of construction debris located elsewhere in the dunes. There is some cursory evidence to suggest that the development may be
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
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
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
Florence Regional Arts Alliance arts festival at the Florence Events Center; and live music and other festivities and activities all over town. Three Rivers Casino Resort will run a shuttle to Old Town every 15 to 20 minutes on May 17 and 18. For more information on the annual Florence Rhododendron Festival, visit RhodyDays. net for details and a downloadable brochure with full information, dates, times, and locations; email info@ FlorenceChamber.com; or call 541-997-3128
adding additional material to the fill pile, namely the presence of a vehicle-accessible path to the top of the pile pointing towards the development and informal accounts of its changing dimensions. There is also some indication that the pile contains things other than fill as there are visible signs of other refuse in the soil. Further north the situation gets even messier. The neighborhood surrounding Rhodowood Drive and Saltaire Street is right next to Three Mile Prairie, but gaining access would require going through at least one residential home, and would drop visitors some distance from the current trail system.
Beyond that is a chunk of territory currently owned by Benedick Holdings, LLC. Originally intended for a development, a large swathe of that property (which includes much of Heceta Junction Lake) was declared protected wetlands and barred from development. Mike Allen claims that some attempts were made a number of years ago for Benedick Holdings to sell or donate the protected land to the City of Florence to become a de-facto extension of Three Mile Prairie (though under a different jurisdiction). I reached out to both the city’s Planning Division and Public Works department to verify this information but did not receive a response. This confusion and lack of access has led to a lack of other forms of care. Invasive species like Scotch Broom run rampant throughout the park. Trash, from plastic bottles to spare tires, once dumped are rarely if ever collected. Illegal use of motorbikes and OHVs goes unchecked. And the lack of attention paid to it has made it a popular haven for unhoused folks looking for somewhere safe and private to camp, a process that has riddled the park with footpaths and patches where the protected wetlands were cleared and killed off to make room for what little comfort can be had.
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.”
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