Plugging in a new tradition

VIDA: The McKenzie Community Partnership hosted a Holiday Party at the Vida McKenzie Community Center on Sunday that was topped off with the illumination of a tall fir. Prior to flipping the light switch at 5 p.m., people inside the building were treated to live music, gingerbread house decorating, caroling, crafts and games, and refreshments - along with collecting new, unwrapped toys for the McKenzie Fire & Rescue’sa Toy Drive.

The event was a new addition to the area’s Annual Holiday Lights project, now in its fourth year and running through December 31st. Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by decorating their yards and buildings. In years past, some featured sites included a Santa riding a Salmon at the McKenzie River Discovery Center and a snowman at the Jeweled Messenger near the Goodpasture Covered Bridge. This year, organizers say to look for two new large lighted displays - one at Honey Paddle Farm and another at milepost 24.

For more details and to share the location of your lighted display, email [email protected]. Donations for next year’s party can be made at mckenziecommunity.org. (Please specify that your donation is for Holiday Lights.)