Charter School Sets Eyes on Building
Siuslaw Valley Charter School has taken a key step toward opening Whitmore Classical Academy in Florence. Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Waggoner says the school is currently under contract to purchase a potential campus location—the former Rite Aid building.
“We do have an offer on the Rite Aid building. We’re under contract we’re doing our due diligence—so it’s not a done deal. It’s a little over 17,000 square feet, so it was just in that realm of size. It’s right at a traffic light, its on the correct side of the highway to be near the other schools.”
Waggoner says securing the building will require additional funding.
“It’s going to take some fundraising to actually secure it so if people are looking to donate or it is something they’re excited about the time really is not to help us out financially, also.”
Waggoner talks about her hiring and the plans for opening the school in the fall of 2026 on the August edition of our town.
Hot and Dry Equals Dangerous Conditions
Persistent hot and dry weather in July has prompted national forests across the Pacific Northwest to increase or implement public use restrictions. With fire danger levels ranging from high to very high, officials are urging outdoor visitors to be extra cautious and help prevent human-caused wildfires. Campfires may be restricted in some areas, and even where allowed, officials advise reconsidering if one is truly necessary. Firefighters stress the importance of checking local conditions, adhering to restrictions, and preparing for possible evacuations. Fire conditions in Florence are currently high.
Gas Prices
Gas prices remain calm this week in Florence and across Oregon. The statewide average dipped slightly to $3.99 a gallon, while at Florence’s Safeway station it’s $3.99 for cash/debit and about $4.09 on credit. Other local pumps, such as Circle K and Fred Meyer, hover around $3.97–$3.99—well below Oregon’s peak of $4.08 in late June. AAA Oregon/Idaho’s Marie Dodds cautions that prices will likely stay stable—unless crude oil climbs or a supply disruption occurs. Drivers are urged to monitor local trends and consider using apps to find the lowest rates.
Jeep Celebration
A classic off-road celebration returns as the Florence Jeeps R Us club hosts the Jeep Junction Show & Shine on Saturday, August 9th, from 10 to 2 at Johnston Motors on Highway 101 in Florence. The event honors the Jeep’s military roots dating back to WWII and benefits the Oregon Coast Military Museum and Florence Food Share. All Jeep models are welcome, with trophies awarded in four categories. Entry is $10 and a can of Spam to help build “Spam Mountain.” The first 40 Jeeps get a goodie bag, and the Lions food cart will be serving up eats.