March 15, 2023 — On March 9 the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce officially announced Mike Bones as this year’s Rhododendron Festival Grand Marshall for 2023.

Bones comes with a laundry list of qualifications as a rhododendron expert making him a perfect choice for the honor.

In 2022 the American Rhododendron Society awarded him their International Silver Award. The award is given in recognition of outstanding regional contributions made in the dissemination and development of information related to rhododendrons. It is only awarded under special circumstances, and Bones was the first American recipient of the award in five years when he won.

Bones is also a Siuslaw High graduate and the Chamber Ambassador President.

The 116^th Rhododendron Festival is May 18-21. For more information go to www.florencechamber.com/annual-events/rhody-festival-2/