Local Man Arrested On Wire Theft Charges
On January 16th, around 7 a.m., a Triangle Lake resident spotted three individuals starting a fire on private property. The trio reportedly matched the description of suspects in a recent wire theft in the area. Deputies responded, arresting two individuals with outstanding warrants, while a third suspect, 56-year-old Craig Leon Beaty, fled the scene. A Lane County Sheriff’s detective later joined the investigation, uncovering stolen wire and establishing probable cause to arrest all three for wire theft. Kenneth Lee Wilson, 50, of Florence, was lodged in the Lane County Jail on charges of Theft and Burglary, failure to report as a sex offender, and multiple warrants. Kolby Timothy Vandehey, 37, of Eugene, was also jailed on similar charges and several warrants. Authorities continue searching for Craig Beaty, believed to be in the Triangle Lake area. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141.
Master Gardener Classes
The OSU Extension Service Lane County Master Gardeners have announced their public pruning class schedule for winter and spring 2025. Participants will learn about pruning tools and equipment, proper tool care, and techniques for pruning specific types of trees and ornamentals. The classes aim to be interactive, fun, and educational, with Master Gardeners eager to share their expertise and engage with attendees. Pre-registration is required to attend the classes.
Grants Serve Rural Area
Eight Lane County nonprofits will receive grants from the county’s Community & Economic Development Program to support economic development projects. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $30,000, aim to boost small businesses, startups, workforce training, and community prosperity. Recipients include RAIN Catalysts, which connects Lane County entrepreneurs to resources, and Connected Lane County, which partners with schools and businesses to offer vocational career exploration for youth. Both organizations actively serve the Florence community. Jason Harris, Lane County’s Community & Economic Development Manager, said the grants support organizations helping communities thrive. Funding for these grants comes from video lottery funds allocated for economic development.
Flags for MLK Jr.
Jean Murphey with the Florence Kiwanis explained that several years ago, the organization decided to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day by adding it to their list of national holidays when flags are displayed. Murphey emphasized that today’s flag placement coinciding with the inauguration of Donald Trump is purely coincidental and not intended as a political statement. The Kiwanis Club maintains a nonpartisan stance and focuses on community service and honoring national traditions. For more information on their efforts, visit kiwanisclub.org
