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McKee Bridge Historical Society produces '7th Annual Christmas on a Covered Bridge'

McKee Bridge decorated for the annual Christmas celebration.
McKee Bridge decorated for the annual Christmas celebration.

The president and vice president of the McKee Bridge Historical Society (MBHS), Laura Ahearn and Valerie Vilbig, joined the Jefferson Exchange to discuss their work with the MBHS and the upcoming "7th Annual Christmas On A Covered Bridge" celebration on Dec 13.

Planned activities for the event include a bake sale, handcrafted gifts, painted rock hunt for special prizes, and more. Plus, there will be a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

ABOUT THE MCKEE BRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Throughout the years the community has rallied to the aid of this beloved historical structure, whenever it needed help.

Groups formed to conduct repairs at the need arose: roof repairs in 1965, restoration work in 1989,\fumigation of the massive beams and cedar siding replacement in 1995. The Save McKee Bridge Committee was formed, when Jackson County decided to cease funding work on the aging bridge in1985. Then, the non-profit McKee Bridge Historical Society was established in 199. Since then has worked to preserve the bridge as a vibrant, historical landmark for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Jefferson Exchange host Mike Green is joined by leaders from the McKee Bridge Historical Society, Valerie Vilbig, Vice President (left) and Laura Ahearn, President (right) in the JPR studio on Dec. 3, 2025.
JPR Engineer and Associate Producer Andrew Crackle
Jefferson Exchange host Mike Green is joined by leaders from the McKee Bridge Historical Society, Valerie Vilbig, Vice President (left) and Laura Ahearn, President (right) in the JPR studio on Dec. 3, 2025.

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Mike Green is host of the Jefferson Exchange. Mike has lived in Southern Oregon for more than two decades. He is an award-winning journalist with over 20 years experience in media, specializing in media innovation, inclusive economics and entrepreneurship.
Natalie Golay is the Senior Producer of the Jefferson Exchange. She has a B.A. in Visual Arts, a certificate of recommendation in multimedia from the Vancouver Film school, and a law degree from the University of British Columbia. A communications professional for over 20 years, Natalie is a natural storyteller with extensive audio and video production skills.