Florence community celebrates First Citizens
A community leader who chooses “quiet service” and avoids the spotlight was chosen as Florence’s First Citizen this week. The “Future First Citizen” award was also presented: to a student who excels as a scholar, athlete and leader. The awards were handed out Tuesday during a community lunch at the Florence Events Center. Mike Webb has contributed thousands of hours of community service over past 30-plus years. He has been instrumental in guiding the consolidation of services provided by Western Lane Ambulance District and the Siuslaw Rural Fire District. Webb is a sitting Florence City Councilor, is on the Urban Renewal Board, and Siuslaw Vision. He has been active in Florence Kiwanis, Florence Rotary, the Siuslaw Youth Soccer Association and other groups. Mike has been with Oregon Pacific Bank for 27 years and has been instrumental in helping small businesses not just survive, but also to thrive.
The award for the “Future First Citizen” was presented to Siuslaw High School senior Danin Lacouture who has logged countless hours of community service. She has led the Interact Club, helped organize the annual Veteran’s Day assembly at the school as well as competed extremely well in wrestling, track and field, and volleyball. Lacouture is a past state champion in the Shot Put, has a third place state wrestling medal in her weight class and was a seventh place state finisher in the Javelin. All while maintaining very high grades in some of the most challenging classes available to her at Siuslaw High School.
Gas prices continue to rise
The average price of regular gasoline in Florence jumped up again in the past week, hitting $4.72 a gallon. Prices ranged yesterday from a low posted price of $4.58 to a high of $4.99. Prices locally continue to track below the statewide average price of $4.95 a gallon. Drivers in the Northeastern part of the state enjoy the lowest posted price. Pendleton recorded $4.69 a gallon this week according to Triple-A of Oregon. Grants Pass had the highest community average. Drivers there face an average price of $5.13 a gallon. Drivers in California face the highest average price overall: $5.89, while in Oklahoma they’ll find the cheapest: $3.27 a gallon on average.
Three Rivers Foundation opens non-profit grant window.
Local nonprofit groups will soon be able to apply for funding through the Three Rivers Casino Resort Foundation. The foundation has announced that its annual grant cycle will open April 1st and continue through April 30th. The program is designed to support projects that serve communities throughout the Florence area and beyond. Nonprofits are encouraged to submit applications during that time frame. According to foundation representatives, past funding has gone toward a variety of local programs and services. Additional details on eligibility requirements and how to apply are expected to be available through the Three Rivers Casino Resort Foundation.
Sip and Stroll Yachats
The Yachats Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting locals and visitors to take part in one of the Oregon Coast’s signature spring events. Sip and Stroll returns to Yachats April 18th and 19th, featuring 11 wine tasting locations throughout the village, along with local shops, galleries, and community spaces. Executive Director Nichole Lippincott says the event offers a chance to enjoy coastal charm while connecting with the community. Participants check in at Yachats Commons to receive a commemorative glass, wristband, and tasting map, with trolley service available between stops.
