ODOT Scams
Oregon residents are being warned about a new wave of scam messages claiming to be from DMV or ODOT, falsely demanding payment for unpaid toll fees. The messages threaten vehicle suspension, legal action, or credit damage. ODOT does not operate a toll program, and officials say these messages are fake, designed to steal personal or financial information. The Oregon DMV stresses it will never ask for sensitive data like Social Security or driver’s license numbers through unsolicited emails or texts. Legitimate DMV messages are only sent after a customer initiates a service. If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click links—delete and block the sender.
Coronation
The Rhododendron queen and king coronation will signify the beginning of the Rhododendron festival tomorrow evening at the Florence Event Center. There are 5 princesses and 5 princes that will compete for the coveted title. Last year’s King and Queen, twin siblings, Cate and Cort Waggoner will be on hand to crown the 2025 winner. The winners will represent Florence during the Festival next week. Tickets for the event are still available at the Florence Events Center box office. The event will begin at 7pm and run about 2 hours. Students from Siuslaw and Mapleton will dance, sing, speak and play, showcasing their individual talents.
Debris Disposal
The City of Florence will be offering their yard debris collection early this month. It is traditional to collect debris the third Saturday of the month during the spring, summer and early fall, however during May the event is a week earlier due to the Rhododendron festival and the thousands of visitors that will be in the community next week. Yard debris is collected on 27th street just off of Kingwood. The cost for disposal is $15 for a truck load, $20 for a medium trailer, $25 for a large trailer over 12 feet. You can drop tree clippings, grass clippings, leaves, weeds, pruning and brush. Other items are not permitted including stumps, food and household waste. A complete list is available on the City of Florence’s website: ci.florence.or.us
