Hospital Nutrition Guidelines Tighten
New federal hospital nutrition guidelines are drawing mixed responses from rural hospitals in Oregon. The Department of Health and Human Services says the changes are meant to improve long-term health by reducing processed foods, sugary drinks and refined grains, while emphasizing whole grains and vegetables. Virginia Williams, CEO of Curry Health Network in Gold Beach, said smaller hospitals like hers are already well positioned to meet the standards. She said most meals are prepared from scratch in their own kitchen, with minimal reliance on processed food, and the quality has long been recognized in the community — a philosophy that mirrors Peace Harbor Hospital in Florence, which has been known for serving high-quality, in-house meals for years. Some hospitals worry the new rules could strain tight budgets. But Brock Slabach of the National Rural Health Association said most rural hospitals already operate under similar food requirements.
Volunteers Recognized
Oregon Coast Humane Society is recognizing the people who power its mission. More than 60 volunteers gathered April 4 at the Woahink yurt meeting room as OCHS named its 2025 Volunteers of the Year. Honorees include Tim McGinnis as Shelter Volunteer of the Year; Frank Elswick and Meghan Lewis for Community Events; Bonnie Kelley from the Thrift Store; and Sandra Rankin as the inaugural Veterinary Clinic Volunteer of the Year. Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson says volunteers are essential to daily operations. In 2025, OCHS volunteers contributed more than 29,000 hours of service, equal to about 14 full-time employees.
Library Meetings
The Siuslaw Public Library will host two town hall meetings May 8 and 9 to share what they’ve learned during a month-long strategic planning effort. Library staff gathered community feedback by asking residents about their hopes for the region’s future. The Upriver Siuslaw town hall is Friday, May 8, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Mapleton Lions Gym, with lunch provided. A Florence meeting follows Saturday, May 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Florence library. Library Director Meg Spencer says the goal is to make sure they’re hearing the community correctly before moving forward. The meetings are free and open to the public.