Retirement Celebration for Chief Schick
West Lane Fire and EMS will honor retiring Fire Chief Michael Schick with a community retirement celebration on June 30. Chief Schick is retiring after 32 years of service to the fire service and the Western Lane community. The public is invited to stop by Station 1, located at 2625 Highway 101, between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to share memories, enjoy refreshments, and help celebrate his career and contributions to the organization. Snacks and beverages will be provided. West Lane Fire and EMS says it looks forward to recognizing Chief Schick’s legacy and wishing him well in retirement.
City Changing Online Public Meeting Platform
The City of Florence is transitioning its virtual public meeting platform from GoToWebinar to Zoom Webinars beginning with the Florence City Council meeting on June 15, 2026. City officials say the change is intended to improve accessibility, streamline technology services, and provide a more user-friendly experience for residents attending meetings remotely. Zoom Webinar will continue to allow the public to watch meetings and participate in public comment periods under existing procedures. Meeting agendas, access links, and participation instructions will remain available on the City’s website before each meeting. The City thanks residents for their patience during the transition and says it remains committed to accessible public engagement.
Expo Coming June 27
The Healthy Aging – Healthy Living Senior & Lifestyle Expo is coming to the Florence Events Center on Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free community event offers resources and information for seniors, caregivers, and families, featuring exhibitors focused on healthcare, wellness, housing, financial planning, safety, recreation, and more. Attendees can also hear educational presentations and speak directly with local professionals. Organizers say the expo is designed to help people plan for healthy, independent living at every stage of life. Admission is free, and complimentary ice cream will be available for visitors.
WLCF Education Scholarships
The Western Lane Community Foundation is accepting applications for Continuing Education Scholarships for the upcoming academic year. Scholarships are available for students attending four-year colleges, community colleges, and approved trade schools, with award amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Students pursuing careers in health care, arts, and education are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants are automatically considered for all scholarships they qualify for, with criteria varying by fund and including academic achievement, financial need, field of study, and school choice. Applications require information on educational background, career goals, and financial circumstances. The deadline to apply is July 22. More information is available through the Western Lane Community Foundation.
