New School Opens Today Whitmore Classical Academy opens its doors to students today, marking the culmination of a four-year effort that began in 2022 when community members began developing plans for a public classical charter school in Florence. Since then, organizers have navigated the charter approval process, developed curriculum, hired […]

COVID Shots Oregon Health Authority says updated COVID-19 vaccines could be available statewide as soon as this weekend under a new standing order issued ahead of the 2026-27 respiratory virus season. The order recommends vaccination for those at highest risk of severe illness, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, […]

Travel Lane County Looking for Tourism Master Plan Feedback Travel Lane County is asking residents to help shape the future of tourism across the region. A Destination Master Plan prioritization survey is now open through September 10, giving community members a chance to identify which recommendations should be tackled first […]

Scam Warning: Mobile Apps The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is warning consumers about scams involving mobile payment apps like Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal. Officials say scammers may send money by mistake, then ask for it back, only to have the original payment later reversed. Fraudsters are also […]

Back to School Supply Drive The Siuslaw Vision Child Care Working Group is launching a “Back to School Fall Supply Drive” to help local child care providers and early learning programs prepare for the school year. From September 14th through October 16th, community members can donate school supplies, books, art […]

Food Drive September Johnston Motor Company is asking the Florence community to help stock the shelves at Florence Food Share as part of Ford’s Global Food Drive. Throughout September, the dealership will collect non-perishable food donations during regular business hours, with everything collected staying local and going to Florence Food […]

FURA Gets Hotel Update Construction on the new 86-room Braun Hospitality hotel in Florence is moving into its final stages. Matt Braun says the building’s exterior envelope is complete, interior painting is underway, and crews will begin site concrete work, including curbs and sidewalks, next week. Braun says favorable weather […]

Sheriff Says Scammers Impersonating Deputies The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about another round of phone scams. Callers are posing as sheriff’s office employees, often claiming to be sergeants, and telling victims they have warrants, missed jury duty or other legal issues. Scammers may threaten arrest and demand […]