Newspaper Switches to Remote Office Model
Here at the close of 2025, The Siuslaw News is adjusting operations as part of ongoing cost-saving measures by its parent company, Country Media Incorporated, which publishes ten newspapers in small Oregon communities. Editor Tony Reed says the changes do not mean the newspaper is going anywhere. Rather, they reflect the ongoing challenges facing community newspapers, including rising printing, shipping, and office costs, along with competition from free online advertising platforms. As part of the transition, The Siuslaw News is moving to a home-office model, with advertising handled locally and editorial work continuing remotely. The paper has also transferred its historic archives to the Kyle Research Library at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum. The collection includes bound newspapers dating back to the 1890s, along with photos, microfilm, and special publications. Museum staff say the materials will be preserved, cataloged, and made available for research. Reed says preserving local history remains a core mission of the newspaper, and he emphasizes that The Siuslaw News will continue reporting on local government, schools, community events, and sports. Submissions and story tips can be emailed to treed@countrymedia.net
Motorcycle Accident
The City of Florence says Rhododendron Drive has reopened after being closed Sunday evening between Treewood and Harbor Vista due to a traffic accident. The roadway was shut down around 7 p.m. while first responders worked at the scene and reopened later Sunday night once the area was cleared. There are unconfirmed reports the crash may have involved a motorcycle and possibly a fatality. Florence Police have not released official details or identified those involved. Additional information will be shared if and when it becomes available.
C.R.O.W. Auditions
C.R.O.W. will present Seussical The Musical in April of 2026, with six public performances scheduled April seventeenth through the twenty-sixth at the Florence Events Center. Open auditions will be held January twelfth or thirteenth at six-thirty p.m. at the C.R.O.W. Center for the Performing Arts on Highway One-Oh-One in Florence. Attendance is required on only one audition date, with invited callbacks set for January fourteenth. Roles are available for youth and young adults ages four through adult, and no experience is required. Auditions will include singing and a short dance combination. C.R.O.W. is also offering a free audition workshop on January seventh at six-thirty p.m. Additional details are available on C.R.O.W.’s website.
