Local News – Kids Will Have Fun; Scoopers Needed; Bike to School; Princess Samantha

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Local News

Fun for the kids this weekend…

A lot of the activities set for this weekend’s Rhododendron Festival are aimed at adults.  Lots of motorcycles, shows and exhibits at various venues displaying classic cars, boats and RVs.  There’s an arts and craft show, a gun show and one at the Florence Events Center displaying the namesake for the festival.

But, if you’re a kid, there’s still plenty of things to catch your attention.

All ages are welcome in the Rhody Run, the Rhody Show itself has a section of art created by elementary students and, of course, there’s the Davis Carnival at the Nopal Street Parking Lot every day.

But, all of those are shared with adults.  If you’re looking for something that’s exclusively for kids… you just need to look at Saturday afternoon and the firefighters Junior Parade followed by Kiwanis Kids Games.

There’s no preregistration for either, and no cost to participate.

Junior parade entries begin assembling at Miller Park at 11 AM.  Then at noon, they’ll head north on Oak Street past the schools to the high school JV baseball field.  That’s where they’ll be greeted by a legion of Kiwanians equipped fun, food and games.

One other activity for kids age nine through 13… there are still a few openings left for pooper-scoopers and banner carriers for Sunday’s Grand Floral Parade.  Each participant earns a pass good at the carnival after the parade on Sunday.   Parents must call and pre-register their child today or tomorrow at the Chamber Visitor Center.

Meet Princess Samantha

Tonight will be the final rehearsal for the annual Rhododendron Pageant.  Four area high school seniors will compete on stage, showing off their poise, public speaking, talent and charm for the right to wear the crown and bear the title of Queen Rhododendra 105.  One of those princesses is Samantha Rodriguez.

Samantha Rodriguez — “Yeah, I’ve lived here my whole life.  I wanted to learn how to public speak better.  Because I get shy and nervous.”

Princess Samantha wants to pursue a career in health care and possibly join the air force after high school.  Tickets for Friday night’s pageant are available at the Chamber Visitor Center… or at the door.

Bike To School 

Be extra careful tomorrow when you’re out and about… Tomorrow is “Bike to School Day” in Florence and students at Siuslaw Elementary will be participating.  Principal Mike Harkelroad said there will be a special emphasis on safety… helmets, crossing the highway and observing the rules of the road.  It’s a popular event, he says.  Last year the bicycle racks were overwhelmed and they had bikes parked all over the school.  The event is part of the local observance of National Bike Month.