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Siuslaw News Wednesday, July 1, 2026 Florence, Oregon
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Welcome Fire Chief Rob Chance
Third day’s a charm By TONY REED The Siuslaw News
While one would think any day in typically breezy Florence would be good to fly a kite, it’s not always the case, as seen last week. Driftwood Shores Resort hosted a four-day kite festival on the beach next to the resort June 22-24, but on Monday, high wind conditions made it look more like a sandstorm on the beach. On Tuesday,
Number 26 • 136 years
WLFEA Chief Rob Chance. Tony Reed photo SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF
light fog and no wind made it impossible to get a kite up in the air, but Wednesday morning made up for it. “Today was our happy day,” Driftwood Shores organizer Terry Hankins said Wednesday. “We’ll see how it goes tomorrow.” Thursday’s gray skies were splashed with color, and the night also saw several illuminated kites dancing on the air.
Though some had to leave for a call, many first responders from Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority stayed to congratulate and welcome new Fire Chief Rob Chance during a joint meeting on June 25. Western Lane Ambulance District Board president Mike Webb swore in Chance, administering the Oath of Office. Following a handshake and a hug from retiring Chief Michael Schick, the gold chief’s badge was pinned on his uniform by his wife,
See KITE, Page A7
See CHIEF, Page A7
Henry named Florence Chamber board Chair By TONY REED The Siuslaw News
During the 007-themed Siuslaw Awards ceremony presented by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce on June 18, some may have been surprised to hear that its board chair was stepping down. For the last two years, Beth Rudometkin has served as the board chair of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. Rudometkin called it fitting that the event theme was “License to Lead,” saying that while she was not issued spy gadgets or an Aston Martin, she was given the opportunity to work with an exceptional group of leaders who care about the local business community. She said the board remains focused on its strategic plan to strengthen local business, updated its bylaws, worked through staff changes, and navigated a few publicity issues.
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Obituaries — A2 Sports & Lifestyle — B1
Florence residents celebrate Juneteenth Submitted by JOE TACCOGNA and NORA KENT
Rudometkin said she was most proud, not of one accomplishment, but the skill and dedication of the board. “Our board members bring an incredible depth of experience,
Opinion — A3 Classifieds — B6-7
perspective, and passion to every decision they make,” she said. “They volunteer their time, ask the tough questions, and work tirelessly behind See CHAMBER, Page A7
East Woahink Lake Day Use Area was the site this year for Florence’s annual Juneteenth celebration. Roughly 200 community members came together
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Friday, June 19th for the Federal Holiday that commemorates the day in 1865 when people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of the emancipation proclamation which had been issued in 1863. Attendees enjoyed hamburgers, hotdogs and veggie burgers,
Siuslaw News 2 Sections | 16 Pages Copyright 2026
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grilled by Lions Club volunteers, as well as delicious side dishes donated by local restaurants- Fresh Harvest Cafe, Nosh Eatery, Traveler’s Cove, Chen’s Family Dish and Rosa’s Mexican Restaurant and See CELEBRATE, Page A6