Dark Skies

“Where can you see the Milky Way from Main Street?” The answer in Oregon is “Antelope.” The Central Oregon community of Antelope has been designated as the first International Dark Sky Community in Oregon. But could the answer also include the McKenzie Highway?

People will have a chance to learn more at public meetings set for Blue River and Leaburg. On Saturday, January 18th, a Oregon Outback Dark Sky Network (OODSN) representative will give a 10 a.m. presentation at McKenzie Schools, followed by a 6 p.m. session at the McKenzie Fire & Rescue’s Leaburg training room.

The Dark Skies initiative involves governmental agencies, non-profits, and private individuals interested in promoting dark sky preservation while combating light pollution. Since its inception, the OODSN has collected data for sky quality monitoring, community outreach, and educational events to raise awareness about the importance of dark skies.

Also on the agenda is an update on a project exploring whether Hwy. 126 could become a “Sixty Mile Main Street” under the Oregon Parks Division program.

For more information contact [email protected]

Wanted Man

A man wanted in connection with a vehicle theft was arrested in McKenzie Bridge on Monday. According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy assigned to the McKenzie District located a stolen vehicle and detained two suspects. A third man, identified as Travos James Bechtol, 30, of Veneta, ran from deputies.

The LCSO had requested residents contact dispatch with any information about the suspect’s whereabouts. An area resident reported seeing Bechtol around 4 p.m. on January 13th as he attempted to break into a house near the intersection of Taylor Road and McKenzie Highway.

A short while later, the Sheriff’s Office reported that Bechtol had been located and arrested at about 4:45 p.m.

Fitness Expo

The Willamalane Fitness Expo on February 1st promises an array of healthy fun. From 9 a.m. to noon, people can try various fitness classes, explore a health and wellness fair with a dozen booths, savor delicious goodies, win prizes in a raffle, and more! Group exercise classes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and complimentary childcare will be available. This is a free event, and no registration is required.

Thanks to PeaceHealth’s generous support, the Willamalane Fitness Expo is free to attend at the Willamalane Adult Activity Center, 215 West C Street - near downtown Springfield and Island Park.