SN
Siuslaw News Florence, Oregon
Number 18 • 136 years
SN
City submits two grant applications SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
for our students. The funds raised will go towards special teacher-led projects that enrich classroom learning and exciting field trips that bring lessons to life,” said organizer Crystal Osburn. “Every splash of color
At its regular meeting on April 20, the Florence City Council voted to approve two grant applications, the first of which, if approved, will provide $200,248 for the replacement of the beacon and wind cone at the Florence Municipal Airport. According to Public Works Director August Murphy, the beacon and sock were replaced in 2011, but have reached the end of their useful life. “The Airport Improvement Plan (AIP) handbook indicates the useful life of NAVAIDs (Navigational Aids) is 15 years, and the airfield lighting and signage is 10 years,” staff reports state. “Since both the beacon and wind cone are considered NAVAIDs, they are eligible for replacement in 2026. Additionally, due to the proximity of the Airport to the ocean, electrical equipment deteriorates at a faster rate than airports not exposed to our harsh coastal conditions.” According to staff reports, the City has been working with the Federal Aviation
See COLOR, Page A6
See CITY, Page A7
Tony Reed photo
Run brings a ton of color to town SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
The most colorful spot in Florence on April 25 was not the blossoming trees at Miller Park or the flowers near the Siuslaw River Bridge, but the west side of Siuslaw Middle School. There, dozens of kids,
parents, runners, along with police and fire personnel, watched and took part in the annual Color A Thon. Color A Thon is the most colorful family fun filled event of the year this family fun run/walk starts at the and stretches just over two miles.
Participants went from the school parking lot down 27th to Kingwood Kingwood to 20th, up to Oak, back to the school. “Our Color Run is more than just a fun, high-energy event; it’s a way to directly support meaningful experiences
Siuslaw alum represents at the Boston Marathon WILL LOHRE Siuslaw News
donations of private individuals, we celebrate this monumental event for our school and community. Whitmore Classical Academy is a public,
From Florence to Boston, distance running has taken Brian Schofield a lot of places. While he started out running cross-country in Florence in middle school and at Siuslaw High School, his talent, fortitude, and feet have now taken him to one of the most prestigious distance-running events in the world: the Boston Marathon. He finished it in 2:45:34, a new personal record, and at a pace of 6:18 per mile. Completing the Boston Marathon was about so much more than just an individual achievement. It wasn’t just about making a new record; it was about keeping a promise. When he crossed the finish line, it all hit him. “Crossing the finish line was emotionally
See SCHOOL, Page A7
See MARATHON, Page A6
Celebrating the official change of ownership (not in this order) were Kay King, Board President, Chuck Trent, Board Treasurer, Donna Heinen, Board Secretary, Heather Hammon, Board Vice-President, Lindsay Holcroft, Larry Martindale, Jennifer Waggoner, Executive Director and Angelina McKinsey, Instructional Principal, Whitmore Classical Academy
Siuslaw Valley Charter School takes possession of former Rite-Aid FROM SVCS
“Siuslaw Valley Charter School is excited to announce that it is officially the owner of the former Rite-Aid Building and
INSIDE
Obituaries — A2 Sports & Lifestyle — B1
plans to open the doors of Whitmore Classical Academy as planned this Fall for grades Kindergarten through third grade.” “Thanks to the generous support and
Opinion — A3 Classifieds — B6-7
Follow us for the latest news: /SiuslawNews@Siuslaw_News TheSiuslawNews.com
“It’s not just a race; it feels like a shared experience between the runners and everyone out there cheering,” Schofield said. “That energy is something I’ll remember and carry with me moving forward.” Courtesy photo from Brian Schofield
Siuslaw News 2 Sections | 16 Pages Copyright 2026
Where great food, genuine hospitality, and the spirit of the Oregon Coast come together Award Winning Chowder - Pizza - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Experience Florence’s only oceanfront dining, lodging and event venue!
88416 1st Avenue, Florence, OR • 541-902-6447