Election Result Update
Ed McGuire has regained the lead in the Dunes City mayoral race following an update to Lane County election results Thursday evening. After trailing by eight votes, McGuire now leads Chris John 410 to 389, a margin of 21 votes. Lane County was able to resolve an issue with its ballot-counting machine and posted updated results at 5 p.m. Thursday. In the Dunes City Council races, Lisa Walter Sidlacek, Jeanne Jackson and Richard Olson Jr. continue to lead their respective contests. In Florence, Sally Wantz maintains a 287-vote lead over Daniel Lofy in the mayoral race. The City Council standings also remain unchanged, with incumbents Mike Webb and Jo Beaudreau leading their races. Haylee Cole continues to hold one of the remaining council positions, while Terry Duman maintains a narrow 53-vote lead over Ryan Eichelberger for the other seat. The figures reflect Lane County’s updated election results posted Thursday at 5 p.m.
Weather Warning
The National Weather Service has extended a Beach Hazards Statement along with high winds through late Sunday night, including beaches in the Florence area. Sneaker waves are possible along the central Oregon coast, with waves potentially reaching much farther up the beach than normal. Officials warn that sneaker waves can knock people off their feet and pull them into the frigid ocean. Beachgoers are urged to keep children and pets away from the surf, and stay off rocks, jetties and logs near the water. If someone is swept into the ocean, call 911 rather than attempting a water rescue.
Chamber Holiday Schedule
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing for the holiday season with its annual Shop Small campaign, encouraging residents to visit local businesses. Chamber President and CEO Bettina Hannigan says participating businesses will be featured on a treasure map, with shoppers searching for Sammy the Sea Lion and Sandy Claws.
“And people go, they get the map. It’s free to the customers. They go around and they find either the Sammy the sea lion or the crab. And then each business gives them some kind of a buy one, get one or a piece of candy or something. But it gets people in the door.”
The campaign begins the Saturday after Thanksgiving and continues through Christmas. The Chamber is also seeking volunteers for the December 5th Holiday Festival in Old Town.
Supporting Preschools and Child Care Programs
The Siuslaw region came together to support local early learning programs through the Back to School Fall Supply Drive. Held during September and October, the effort provided seven local preschools and child care programs with three large boxes each of classroom supplies, including books, art materials and learning tools. The drive was organized by the Siuslaw Vision Child Care Working Group and sponsored by Siuslaw Childcare Friends, the City of Florence and Siuslaw Vision. Local businesses served as donation sites, helping collect supplies for area children and educators.
