Siuslaw Awards
It was a gala evening last night at the Florence Event Center as the community gathered to salute local business and individuals for the 2018 Siuslaw Awards, and the presentation of First Citizen and Future First Citizen. Florence’s First Citizen Award went to Dee Osborne from Banner Bank. Dee was nominate by the Florence Rotary Club for her more than 35 years of serving the Florence community through the United Way, Western Lane Community Foundation, the Oregon Coast Military Museum and the Florence Homebuilders Association which is just part of her community service in Florence. Siuslaw senior Audrey Lowder was named the Future First Citizen for her work with Interact, Key Club, and leadership as well as her volunteering with the Food Backpacks for Kids, the Oregon Coast Humane Society, and the Oregon Coast Chamber Orchestra. Audrey plans on attending Oregon State University and study bio-med and Organic chemistry. The award winners include the Florence Public Art Committee for the Innovation in Business category, Business of the Year went to the Siuslaw News. Community Caring went to TR Hunter Real Estate. Florence Public Works received the Curb Appeal Award for their building design, native landscaping and environmental lighting. Excellence in Customer Service Award went to Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast and Non-Profit Achievement went to Florence Habitat for Humanity. Jenna Bartlett was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce for her dedication and volunteering.
Measles Alert for Lane County
A measles outbreak that hit Washington is having a ripple effect through the state of Oregon and has caused Lane County Public Health officials to issue a warning for Lane county. The Register Guard is reporting that officials are concerned with the proximity of the outbreak and the amount of travel that occurs between Portland and Lane County. 23 cases of measles have been reported since January 1st. Officials say the best way to stop the spread of the disease is to stay home and wash hands frequently and cover coughs and sneezes.
Coast Guard Receives Local Public Support
Yesterday morning at the Florence Disabled American Veteran Hall a presentation was made to the U.S. Coast Guard Siuslaw Station. The DAV and VFW and the Siuslaw News as well as other groups have been working together to help the Coast Guard during the government shutdown. Coast Guard service men and women come under the direction of Homeland Security and therefore do not receive pay during a government shutdown. Statewide contributions have exceeded 100,000 dollars from entities like the American Legion, and according to Mayor Joe Henry, here locally citizen donations have been generous.
“Local community contributions now exceeds 30 thousand, that doesn’t include all the gift cards they delivered out there.”
People interested in contributing can drop checks by the Siuslaw News at 149 Maple Street.
