Chamber Position Opens The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is looking to fill a key community-facing position following the departure of Visitor Center and Office Support Manager Lisa Brandow, who has accepted a new career opportunity. Chamber President and CEO Bettina Hannigan says the position plays an important role in […]

Oregon’s Drought Oregon’s drought is expected to continue through summer and into fall, with experts warning that above-average temperatures are increasing wildfire risk and straining water supplies. National Integrated Drought Information System coordinator Jason Gerlich says dry conditions and a severe snow drought are compounding the problem. Nineteen of Oregon’s […]

Crash Closes Eastbound 126 A head-on crash on Highway 126 near Tiernan shut down the eastbound lane for several hours Thursday afternoon. Witnesses told authorities a late-model SUV traveling westbound slowly crossed the centerline near milepost 7 and struck an RV heading east. The RV driver reportedly tried to avoid […]

Interim CMO Announced for PeaceHealth PeaceHealth has named Dr. John Tynes as interim Chief Medical Officer for the Oregon Region, with his first day set for July 23. Tynes most recently served as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Saint Joseph Hospital in Denver and previously held CMO positions […]

Black and White Event The City of Florence has expanded this year’s Black and White Community Collection event, adding several new partners and collection opportunities. Along with free disposal of unwanted tires, refrigerant appliances and propane tanks, residents can also donate pet food and supplies for the Oregon Coast Humane […]

Municipal Election Cycles Several candidates have begun the filing process for Florence’s November municipal election. For the mayoral seat, Shannon Warren and Sally Wantz have submitted preliminary petitions, with Wantz currently awaiting Lane County signature verification. Seeking a 2-year council term are Renee LoPilato, Mike Webb, and Elijah Yager, all […]

Chamber Supports Letter to Governor The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce has joined chambers from across Oregon in urging Governor Tina Kotek and state lawmakers to quickly implement recommendations from the Governor’s Prosperity Council. In a letter organized by the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce, business leaders say many of […]

City Water Scores High The City of Florence has released its 2025 Water Quality Report, showing the city’s drinking water continues to meet or exceed all state and federal standards. Florence has again earned an “Outstanding Performer” designation from the Oregon Health Authority, with no contamination violations, no significant deficiencies, […]