Food Backpack for Kids Receives Grant
The Food Backpack for Kids program, which provides weekend food supplies to over 131 at-risk students in the Siuslaw and Mapleton school districts, has received a $5,000 grant from the Joseph E. Weston foundation, collaborating with the Oregon Community Foundation. Founded in 2012 after a young student was seen searching for food in a dumpster, the program has since expanded, ensuring food-insecure children receive support throughout the school year. With no set end date, the program remains committed to helping students in need. Organizers express their gratitude to the Joseph E Weston Foundation for its generous contribution.
Lane County Commissioners Meeting
The Lane County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular hybrid meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in Harris Hall and online. The agenda includes public comments, a homeless system update, and discussions on building program fee changes and park fee discounts. The board will also review contract approvals for community services and discuss legal matters in an executive session. The public can attend in person or online, with sign-ups required for virtual comments. Full agenda details are available at lanecountyor.gov.
ODF Public Comment Period
The Oregon Department of Forestry has opened a 30-day public comment period on proposed Implementation Plan revisions for several state forest districts, including Western Lane. The plans outline forest management activities such as timber harvest targets, recreation, and habitat protection. The comment period runs from Feb. 20 to March 21 at 5 p.m.. Comments can be submitted online, by email, or by mail. These revisions ensure forest operations continue while aligning with the draft Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan. More details are available on ODF’s website.
Waldport Man Arrested
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 46-year-old Israel Bynum of Waldport following a year-long investigation by Deputy Douglas Honse. Bynum faces charges of Intimidation in the Second Degree, Stalking, and Disorderly Conduct, with investigators linking his actions to bias-motivated crimes, commonly known as hate crimes. During the arrest, authorities also found methamphetamine in his possession. While he faces prosecution, Bynum has been referred to the Lincoln County Deflection Program, which connects individuals with substance use disorder treatment.
27th Annual Home Show
The 2025 Home Show, presented by KCST, KCFM, and the Siuslaw News, returns to the Florence Events Center on February 28 and March 1. The event runs Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring a centerpiece design by Laurel Bay Gardens. Attendees can explore a variety of home improvement vendors, from flooring and cabinets to landscaping and home décor. There will be free samples, drawings, and a grand prize giveaway. Free admission tickets are available at participating local vendors. Admission is also free Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. More details are available at the Coast Radio website.
