Wine, Chowder and Glass Float Trail
The annual Wine, Chowder and Glass Float Trail was a major success this year, according to the President and CEO of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. Despite steady rain on Saturday, hundreds of visitors purchased commemorative wine glasses and sampled selections from some of Oregon’s finest wineries. Organizers say turnout remained strong throughout the day, with participants moving between tasting locations across Florence. Sunday brought improved weather conditions, drawing large crowds for the chowder portion of the event. When votes were tallied, Firehouse Restaurant earned top honors as the crowd favorite. Lovejoy’s secured second place, followed by Linda Did It Deli in third. Several local business owners questioned whether attendance may have surpassed last year’s event, noting store traffic felt heavier than they remembered. While official comparisons were not immediately available, anecdotal reports from merchants suggested a noticeable boost in foot traffic throughout the weekend. The Wine, Chowder and Glass Float Trail has become an important driver of off-season tourism and winter commerce in Florence. The event was repositioned to the winter months following the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting from its previous October timeframe. Chamber officials say the change continues to serve as a catalyst for local businesses during a traditionally slower time of year.
Free Tax Preparation
It’s officially income-tax season, and Oregonians can get free help filing their returns through the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program now through April 15. The program provides tax preparation and filing services for anyone, with a focus on low- and middle-income older adults. Kathy Goeddel, assistant state coordinator for Oregon, says volunteers complete extensive training each year to stay current on changing tax laws. Last year, Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 19,000 Oregonians file returns, securing $16 million in refunds. All 500 Oregon volunteers are IRS-certified, and this year they’re helping taxpayers navigate a new senior bonus deduction of up to $6,000 for individuals 65 and older, or $12,000 for couples filing jointly. Appointments are available for in-person, drop-off, or online assistance.
Scotch Broom Cleanup
The Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative is kicking off its first volunteer event of 2026 with a Scotch and Portuguese broom removal project on Saturday, February 28 from 10 a.m. to Noon at the Oregon Dunes Day Use Area. Volunteers will take a short, two-mile round-trip hike over moderate sandy slopes to reach the work site. Participants are asked to bring closed-toe shoes, work gloves, water, snacks, and tools such as shovels, hand saws or loppers if available. Tools will also be provided. The day use area is located midway between Reedsport and Florence, and organizers say the event is family-friendly. Weather conditions will be evaluated Friday afternoon, February 27. Updates will be posted on the group’s webpage.