29 July 2014
August 18th Public Meeting On Rhody Path Changes
Changes to the proposed Rhododendron Drive multi-use path are aimed at appeasing members of the community who say clearing goes too far. Interim City Manager Larry Patterson….
Larry Patterson – “We’ve gone back, trying to find some compromise in there that works for those residents as well as keeps the path on track. We think we’ve found that, hopefully. We’ll find out more on the 18th.”
That’s when the city council will hear from residents on the project.
Larry Patterson – “That’s gathered a lot of interest. We’re expecting a very large crowd so we definitely want to provide room for that crowd so that we can receive testimony on that.”
To accommodate the expected turnout, the meeting will be at the Florence Events Center.
Abandoning the entire plan is not a viable option according to Patterson, who says despite the opposition, there are many good things about it.
Larry Patterson – “It’s also adding amenities to the community. And the more we’re able to do that, make the community livable, that equates back into the economic prospects for this community. So, we have to keep that in mind as well.”
It’s not just about who the path may serve initially, but about how it would eventually provide additional opportunities to the entire community.
Application Deadline for School Board Vacancy
If you’re thinking about applying for appointment to the vacancy on the Siuslaw School Board, you have until the end of the day to make up their mind.
In order to be considered you must be a qualified voter residing within the Siuslaw School District for the past 12 months.
The appointee would fill the space vacated by former board member Scott Salisbury when he transferred to a new State Police posting earlier this year. The term would run through the end of June next year.
Application forms are available online at the school district website; or at the district office on Oak Street. They must be returned no later than four pm today.
Coastal Contra Dance Open to All
The good thing about a contra dance, according to those who participate, is that anyone can do it. There’s no experience necessary, the callers literally “walk” you through the steps, and you don’t even need to have a partner.
Contra dancing is based on Celtic tradition and is usually accompanied by Irish or Scottish music… principally fiddles, but some percussion.
The South Coast Folk Society will be hosting what they are calling a good old fashioned barn dance this Saturday night at the Smith River Grange. It’s open to anyone who would like to join. The doors open at 6:30 with dancing from seven to ten.
Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students. Wear sturdy, comfortable and clean shoes… and comfortable clothes.
The dance is the kickoff for the regular season of contra dances held each month at the Greenacres Grange in Coos County.
To get to the Smith River Grange Hall, take Highway 101 to Smith River Road between Reedsport and Gardiner, travel 9 miles and it’s on the left.
International Connection For Private Christian School
When students return to the classroom at the Sonshine Christian School in the fall, they’ll be greeted by a teacher with plenty of experience.
Karen Nelson will be at the helm of the privately run school operated by the Florence Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Nelson was born in Africa, spending her first twelve years in Ethiopia and Tanzania. She has continued to travel the world and brings that experience, along with a master’s in education; a bachelor’s in music and an associate’s degree in nursing.
School spokesman Scott Steward says Sonshine Christian School is the only educational alternative to public schools in Florence and has seen “quite a few successes” after the first two years.
