Morgan Installed as Rotary President
The Florence Rotary Club has a new president. Colin Morgan is leading the organization for the 2026–2027 Rotary year, succeeding Jenna Bartlett-Anderson. Morgan begins his term overseeing a club focused on local and international service projects, including student scholarships, youth leadership programs, community initiatives, and humanitarian efforts. Bartlett-Anderson thanked Rotarians, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners for their support during her year as president. The Rotary Club of Florence meets Tuesdays at noon and welcomes guests interested in learning more about service, leadership, and fellowship.
Hoyle Bill Headed to Full House
The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has approved the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, a bipartisan bill backed by Oregon Congresswoman Val Hoyle. The measure includes provisions aimed at helping small ports afford dredging projects, improving maintenance of federally authorized navigation channels, and supporting navigation and flood-control infrastructure across Oregon. For the Oregon Coast and communities like Florence that rely on safe harbor access and dredged channels for commercial and recreational fishing, the bill could help address long-term infrastructure needs. The legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.
Gas Prices
Oregon remains one of the few states where gas prices are still edging lower, but that may not last much longer. AAA reports the statewide average for regular gas fell 5 cents this week to $4.50 a gallon, while the national average jumped 7 cents to $3.86. Here in Florence, regular gas is running about $4.45 a gallon. AAA says rising crude oil prices are the key concern. West Texas Intermediate crude is trading around $80 a barrel today, up more than 7 percent in the past week and near its highest level in a month amid renewed tensions involving the U.S., Iran, and shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts say if crude remains elevated, drivers in Oregon could start seeing pump prices move higher in the coming days despite this week’s decline.
