Power of Florence
The Power of Florence returns this Saturday with a full day of community service, organized by Siuslaw student leaders Luka and Gia Flossi, with help from their mom, Vanessa. The event, now in its 15th year, features six volunteer projects across Florence. Things kick off at 9 a.m. with a cleanup at the new SOS building, helping prepare the space for their upcoming move. Volunteers will also work with Save the Dunes to remove invasive Scotch broom, assist the Florence Garden Club in revitalizing Gallagher Park, clean up trash and weeds along Oak Street with the PTA, and join the EMAC group to freshen up Kingwood Street with litter pickup and landscape trimming. The day wraps up with a “Party in the Parking Lot” at the Grocery outlet location on Highway 101. featuring 15 local organizations like Food Share and the Humane Society. Organizers began planning in April, working to connect volunteers and raise awareness about the power of giving back.
Advisory Team Named for Charter School
At its July meeting, the Siuslaw Valley Charter School Board introduced a new Educational Advisory Team made up of local experts who will help shape the school’s programs. Board President Kay King said the community’s wide range of experience will be invaluable as the school develops. The team includes specialists in mental health, special education, curriculum, health, and cultural outreach—highlighting the school’s commitment to student support and community engagement. Team members include Lori May, Jennifer Lindell, Dennis King, Lori Grimmet, Linda Shappell, and Mary Montoya.
Striping
City streets in Florence got a fresh coat of paint this week. On Tuesday, Lane County crews spent the day restriping roads as part of the City’s ongoing maintenance agreement. Side streets like Kingwood and Spruce received much-needed attention. The environmentally friendly, water-based paint includes thousands of tiny glass beads that reflect light—improving visibility for drivers at night or during rainy weather by making the stripes shine under headlights.
