Memorial Day Service
A Memorial Day ceremony will be held next Monday in Florence to honor those who died in service to the country. Richard Lewis with the Disabled American Veterans, Florence Chapter, says the observance is an important tradition.
Audio Player“Since 1775, men and women have been laying their lives down for this country so that we can have the freedoms we practice today.”
The ceremony begins at 1 o’clock at Veterans Memorial Park on Bay Street. Lewis says the Coast Guard will take part by laying wreaths in the Siuslaw River, and the public is welcome to participate.
Audio Player“If someone had a wreath that they want to lay in memory of one of their family members, they can bring it with them and that can be done.”
Lewis says the names of fallen service members will be read aloud during the ceremony. Two local families will also be recognized for the sacrifices their loved ones made. The event is expected to last about 90 minutes.
Rhody Wrap Up
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up the 118th Rhododendron Festival with Sunday’s Grand Floral Parade and is already planning for the 119th in 2026. Chamber president Bettina Hannigan says thousands came to “Oregon’s Coastal Playground” to enjoy this year’s “Rhodies on the River” theme. The Three Rivers Casino Resort took top honors for Best Overall parade entry. Other winners included the Florence Elks Lodge, the Oregon Coast Military Museum, and Oregon City High’s marching band. Next year’s festival kicks off May 9, 2026, with the coronation of festival royalty and a full weekend of events.
Dunes Activity
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers over 40 miles of coastal sand dunes for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts. Before hitting the sand, riders must have an Oregon ATV operating permit and carry an ATV Safety Education Card. Youth under 18 are required to wear DOT-approved helmets, and all vehicles must display a red or orange safety flag at least nine feet above the ground. Additionally, vehicles need spark arrestors and must adhere to noise limits. Riders should be cautious of steep drop-offs known as “razorbacks” and be aware that dune conditions can change rapidly due to wind and weather.
Soroptimist Event
Everything’s coming up roses at Bingo Night! Soroptimist International of Florence hosts the fundraiser tomorrow—Saturday, May 24—at Three Rivers Casino. Enjoy dinner, dessert auction, raffles, and bingo, all supporting programs and scholarships for local women and girls. Doors open at 5, games begin at 6.
