Local Frequency - Bend

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Thursday, May 15, 2025.

A beautiful Thursday is starting in Bend, and there’s no shortage of things to keep your calendar full. The much-anticipated Bend Antique and Artisan Show opens today at Sundance Meadows on Arnold Market Road. This event is perfect for anyone interested in hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures, and while you browse, consider bringing a canned food donation for The Giving Plate food pantry. Community spirit runs high at these gatherings, and your contribution will help local families in need.

For those eager to get outside, the Bend Farmers Market is back in swing, offering fresh produce, blooms, and artisanal goods. The sights and smells of spring are everywhere, so whether you’re on the hunt for ripe strawberries or a loaf of sourdough, the downtown market has you covered.

Wine lovers, Bend is bringing a full pour this week. Swing by Viaggio Wine Merchant this afternoon for their Viaggio Happy Hour with discounted glasses and tasty small bites. Maybe you’re interested in a deeper dive? The Introduction to Wine Tasting Experience at Willamette Valley Vineyards on Wall Street offers an educational spin on your favorite reds and whites, perfect for both enthusiasts and curious newbies.

If you’re planning for your weekend, mark your calendar for the 25th annual COCC Salmon Bake on Saturday. Hosted by Central Oregon Community College, this feast celebrates Native American traditions with food, live music, dance, and a silent auction supporting the First Nations Student Union’s scholarship program. It’s free to attend and happens on the Bend campus athletic field.

In local news, transportation remains a hot topic. Central Oregon leaders are closely watching progress on state transportation funding at the legislature, with hopes for much-needed infrastructure updates. Meanwhile, the Bend City Council just voted to raise the cost of street maintenance for both residents and businesses, a move aimed at keeping our growing city moving smoothly.

In school news, students have been embracing active commutes, rolling, biking, and walking through Ponderosa Park, inspired by local initiatives to encourage healthy, green habits. And for sports fans, the Bend High baseball team is looking for a comeback after a tough stretch, while the Oregon Ducks softball team is earning accolades at the Big Ten Conference.

Finally, for the creative at heart, poetry workshops and wildflower hikes are cropping up all over the High Desert this week. The Magic of Spring family poetry workshop and Sarah Noble’s Exploring Past Lives event invite everyone to embrace curiosity and connection.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

We kick things off with a full agenda for local government, as the City of Bend’s Budget Committee is meeting today starting at 4 p.m. at City Hall. This is an important moment for community members to see firsthand how city finances are prioritized, with public feedback welcomed as councilors and residents weigh in on the budget that will shape city services for the next two years. If you have thoughts on parks, roads, or public safety, this is your chance to make your voice heard as the committee reviews the City Manager’s proposed plan and considers possible adjustments before moving it on to the council for final adoption.

Meanwhile, Bend is hosting the Oregon Department of Transportation’s first open house of 2025 today, running from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you’re in the trucking or logistics business, or just want to follow updates on commercial driving rules and highway projects, this is a great opportunity to connect with ODOT staff, ask questions, and get the latest scoop on changes that could impact the flow of goods throughout Central Oregon.

On the housing front, it’s been a headline-making spring: for the first time ever, Bend’s single-family home median sales price jumped by over one hundred thousand dollars in just a single month this April. This surge is being felt both by longtime residents and newcomers, with ripple effects across the rental market and local businesses. If you’re looking to buy or sell, be prepared for a fast-moving market and plenty of competition.

Turning to recreation, those hoping to get a jump start on hiking and biking season may need a little more patience. Heavy late-season snow and wet conditions in the Deschutes National Forest are delaying several seasonal gate openings, so check trail conditions before you set out. Still, for the adventurous, some nearby lower-elevation trails remain accessible and as beautiful as ever so grab your gear and make the most of our cool, fresh mornings.

Looking for things to do this week? There’s buzz in the community about the local high school sports season heading into playoffs, and local theaters are gearing up for spirited performances, including a much-anticipated production of the classic musical Grease that promises to have everyone singing along. And as wildfire season approaches, the governor and state officials are urging everyone to be vigilant: clear brush around your property and keep an eye on fire safety updates as the weather shifts.

In more somber news, Bend Police are investigating a shooting at a southwest apartment complex, which left a 20-year-old man with serious injuries. While authorities work on the case, community leaders continue to stress the importance of looking out for one another and reporting any information that could help keep Bend safe.

Before we go, a quick reminder that Bend is again topping the charts as the Northwest’s most sought-after Memorial Day geta

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Today is a busy day across Central Oregon with several notable events happening in our community. Senator Jeff Merkley is making his way through the region with town halls scheduled in three counties. He'll start in Jefferson County at the Madras Performing Arts Center at 10 AM, followed by a stop in Crook County at Barnes Butte Elementary gymnasium at 1 PM. Later this evening, Senator Merkley will be joined by Representative Janelle Bynum for the Deschutes County town hall at Sisters High School gymnasium at 5:30 PM. These venues may reach capacity quickly due to historically high turnout at the Senator's events.

For those interested in sustainable fashion, the 13th Rubbish Renewed Eco Fashion Show takes place today. This creative event features student designers from 17 different local elementary and middle schools showcasing their eco-friendly creations. It's a wonderful opportunity to see how our young community members are thinking about sustainability and fashion in innovative ways.

Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of options today. The Deschutes County is offering free yard debris disposal as part of wildfire season preparations in the Bend area. This is a great chance to clear your property while helping reduce fire risks as we head into the warmer months.

Bird watchers won't want to miss Birding for Breakfast, a morning event perfect for both experienced birders and newcomers hoping to spot some of Central Oregon's diverse avian residents.

Looking ahead to next week, COCC will host their Storm the Stairs event on Thursday - a challenging two-mile run that navigates 465 stairs across the hilly Bend campus. Registration is $15 for this unique athletic challenge.

Also coming up, the Central Oregon Mushroom Club will host a free presentation on "Edible and Medicinal Plants of Central Oregon" next Thursday evening at Trinity Episcopal Church in Bend.

For hikers, next Friday offers a guided spring hike at the Metolius River Preserve near Camp Sherman with David Miller. Registration is required but the event is free.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Friday, May 9th, 2025. We’re kicking off your day with the latest updates, events, and news to keep you connected to what’s happening right here in Central Oregon.

First, if you’re heading south or planning to drive through the La Pine area, be aware that Highway 97 remains closed in both directions about 12 miles north of La Pine after a serious crash late last night. Emergency responders have been on scene since around 8:50 p.m., with no word yet on when the highway will reopen. The Oregon Department of Transportation is urging drivers to seek alternate routes, and if you must travel in that area, stay alert for detours and first responders on the road.

Turning to crime news, a Bend man is in custody after a grim discovery Wednesday evening on NE Emerson Avenue. Police found an unidentified man dead from what they describe as a fatal injury. The suspect, Phillip Matthew Howard Evans, age 27, was arrested shortly after near NE Irving Avenue while officers investigated a trespassing call. Evans is being held in the Deschutes County jail and has a history of prior convictions for theft, assault, and criminal mischief. Bend Police are still working to identify the victim, and an autopsy has been ordered as the investigation continues.

In another developing case, a shooting Tuesday night at Stillwater Crossing Apartments on SW Atwood Drive left a 20-year-old man with serious injuries. The victim, who has not been publicly named, was transported to St. Charles Bend for treatment. Police quickly apprehended 21-year-old Iziah Nicholas Coleman at a local motel. Coleman faces multiple charges, including first-degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon, and he remains in custody while the investigation continues at the apartment complex. Police are asking anyone with information to reach out as they piece together the events leading up to the incident.

Now, for a breath of fresh air and a chance to do some good—Deschutes County is offering free yard debris disposal today as we prepare for wildfire season. It’s the perfect time to clear out your brush and help the community stay safe as the weather warms up.

If you’re in the mood for something more low key, Roundabout Books is hosting their Nonfiction Book Club. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fellow readers, share ideas, and discover new perspectives—all right in the heart of Bend.

And of course, local arts, culture, and recreation are alive and well. Be sure to check out live music, food trucks, markets, and outdoor happenings scattered throughout town. With sunshine in the forecast, this could be the perfect day to stroll downtown, hike a new trail, or simply relax by the river.

That’s your roundup for today. Stay safe on the roads, look out for your neighbors, and don’t forget to make the most of all the events our community has to offer. This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Thursday, May 8, 2025. We hope you’re waking up to a beautiful spring morning here in Central Oregon. Let’s get you up to speed on the local stories and happenings that matter today.

First up, we begin with some breaking news from Bend Parkway. Early yesterday morning, a serious head-on crash halted traffic near the Reed Market Road overpass. Police say it happened when a Bend man driving a Chevrolet Silverado suffered a medical emergency and crossed into oncoming traffic, colliding with a Toyota Sienna. The young woman driving the Sienna was partially ejected and sustained life-threatening injuries. Both drivers were rushed to St. Charles Bend. The crash caused major delays, closing northbound lanes and triggering a major response from emergency crews. The Parkway has since reopened, but if you’re commuting that way, be mindful of ongoing investigations and drive with extra caution today.

On a lighter note, for those of you planning your day, Bend has a wealth of things to do. Spring is in full swing, so it’s a great time to explore our amazing parks and trails. If you’re in the mood for culture, check out local art galleries downtown, or catch one of the many live music nights happening all over the city. For those craving a little more movement, don’t forget that the city is still gathering feedback on the Neff Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements Project, so keep an eye out for upcoming open houses and share your thoughts on making Bend even more bike-friendly.

In other city news, economic experts have released a promising forecast for Bend’s economic growth. Thanks to the Target Sector Analysis, there are plans and hopes for new businesses and job opportunities on the horizon, setting the stage for an even brighter future as our city continues to expand and attract fresh talent and investment.

If you’re a stargazer, the skies should be clear tonight—perfect for catching a sunset over the Cascades or maybe just relaxing with friends downtown as the city comes alive after dark. And a quick reminder: you can always stay in the loop with the city’s weekly newsletter for the latest on road updates and city council decisions.

That wraps up today’s local roundup. Remember, whether you’re heading to work, out for a bike ride, or supporting your favorite coffee shop, Bend’s spirit is what makes this community shine. This has been Bend Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Tuesday, May 6th, 2025.

The City of Bend's Water Services Department has just released their 2024 Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report. The good news is that our city continues to maintain high-quality drinking water that meets all federal and state standards. Residents can now access this report to review detailed information about our water sources and quality testing results.

Art lovers should head over to St. Charles Medical Center Gallery where contemporary realist artist David Kreitzer's new exhibition titled "HEALING WATERS" is currently on display. This show opened a few days ago and offers a perfect opportunity to experience how art can contribute to healing environments.

For baseball fans, the Intermountain Conference season is heating up with just six games remaining for each team. Ridgeview recently swept Bend High in an important series to stay in contention for the conference title. With the season winding down, every game becomes increasingly crucial for playoff positioning.

In educational news, the May school board elections are approaching quickly. The Source Weekly has recently published their endorsements, recommending Ross Tomlin for the Bend-La Pine Schools Board of Directors in Zone 6. Local voters should research all candidates as these positions significantly impact our education system.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased to know that planning for wildlife crossing improvements continues in our region. The Oregon legislature recently passed a bill to improve coordination between state agencies for wildlife crossing construction, which should help reduce animal-vehicle collisions on our highways.

Looking ahead to this weekend, cycling fans can get excited as one of Central Oregon's favorite bike races returns to downtown Bend as a one-day criterium. This event promises to bring energy and excitement to the heart of our city.

For those planning to travel around town this week, be sure to check the City of Bend's weekly road and traffic report for May 5-11 to avoid any construction delays or road closures that might affect your commute.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Saturday, May 3rd, 2025.

Today, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield is holding a federal oversight forum here in Bend at OSU Cascades Campus. The event runs from 9:30 to 11:00 AM at Edward J. Ray Hall Atrium. Joining Rayfield will be State Senator Anthony Broadman and Representatives Jason Kropf and Emerson Levy. This forum is part of a series organized by state attorneys general to address the effects of federal actions and executive orders issued by President Trump. The panel will feature speakers from various impacted areas including food assistance programs and public health, with time for community members to share their stories and ask questions.

In local news, Thursday's closure of China Hat Road southeast of Bend has marked what officials are calling the largest single displacement of homeless people in the area. Many people living in vehicles have reportedly relocated to an area known as "Dirt World" north of Bend. Meanwhile, a fire sparked by a candle destroyed an SUV being used as living quarters in Bend's Juniper Ridge area.

If you're looking for things to do today, there are several options around town. Central Oregon Badminton welcomes players of all skill levels tonight from 6 to 8 PM at Bend Hoops on NE First Street. Equipment is provided, and admission is $10, with children under 13 free.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Deschutes Brewing is hosting a non-alcoholic beer tasting at Mt. Bachelor Ski Area from 11:30 AM to 2 PM. They'll be sampling their newest beer, Non-Alcoholic Fresh Squeezed IPA, along with Black Butte Non-Alcoholic.

Nature lovers might enjoy a morning of nature journaling with Kolby Kirk at Whychus Canyon Preserve near Sisters. This free event runs from 9 AM to noon, though registration is required.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, the Wander Run Club hosts their weekly community run at Shevlin Park from 8 to 10 AM. All paces and all bodies are welcome to join this free event.

On the housing front, Bend officials are considering new rules that could increase accessory dwelling unit approvals, potentially allowing two small housing units per lot.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Friday, May 2nd, 2025.

Today marks a special milestone for our community as Central Oregon Community College celebrates its 75th anniversary with a public celebration. The festivities run from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Coats Campus Center on COCC's Bend campus. Attendees can enjoy inspiring speakers, historical photos and memorabilia, showcases of COCC's diverse programs, and of course, birthday cake. The event is free and open to the public, so bring your family to help celebrate this remarkable 75-year legacy.

In election news, Deschutes County drop boxes are now open for the 2025 Special District Election. If you haven't submitted your ballot yet, today is the day drop boxes officially opened across the county.

A significant development is occurring in our region's approach to homelessness. The U.S. Forest Service has begun implementing the Cabin Butte project, which involves closing areas of the Deschutes National Forest where homeless encampments have developed. This follows city regulations that made it more difficult for people to live in tents and cars within Bend city limits. A federal judge recently denied a temporary restraining order that would have halted the planned closure.

There was some police activity in southeast Bend yesterday, with several armed Bend Police officers and two armored vehicles surrounding an apartment in a standoff that lasted about an hour.

Environmental concerns are also making headlines as elevated levels of forever chemicals have been detected in recent testing of a well in northwest Bend. Meanwhile, Think Wild, a local wildlife hospital, has admitted a bald eagle suffering from severe lead toxicity.

For entertainment this weekend, the Midtown Ballroom and Domino Room complex has a strong calendar with four shows lined up. Plus, there's an abundance of mature entertainment rolling into Bend, promising immersive experiences described as hilarious and unpredictable.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield will be holding a town hall at Edward J. Ray Hall at Oregon State University-Cascades, providing residents an opportunity to engage with state leadership on pressing issues.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Thursday, May 1st, 2025.

Big news from the Deschutes National Forest today as authorities proceed with plans to clear a homeless encampment that has been established there for several months. Up to 200 people were living in the forest when they were notified that the area would be closed starting today, May 1st, as part of a fuels reduction project. This closure comes despite a federal lawsuit challenging the action.

Looking for something to do tonight? Head downtown for the First Friday Artwalk where local shops, galleries, and restaurants will host rotating collections of local art exhibits. It's a perfect opportunity to support local artists and explore Bend's vibrant creative scene.

Skiers and snowboarders can celebrate the final month of the season at Lifty's Ladies Night this evening. The "End-of-Season Après with the Baddies" event runs from 6 to 8 PM at Lifty's on Southwest Chandler Avenue, where you can join the Bachy Baddies crew for some end-of-season festivities.

Tomorrow offers opportunities to connect with nature and community. The Deschutes Land Trust is hosting a Milkweed Seed Mailing Party from 10 AM to noon at their office on NW Irving Avenue. Volunteers will help prepare materials for sending milkweed seeds throughout our community, supporting local pollinator populations.

Also tomorrow, Healing Reins will hold an open house from 4 to 7 PM at their 30-acre property on Cline Falls Road. Visitors can take guided tours and meet the executive director to learn about their equine therapy programs and what it truly means to "Heal with Horses."

Early risers might enjoy the Somatic Nature Series at Shevlin Park tomorrow morning from 8 to 9:30 AM. It's the perfect opportunity to slough off winter and reconnect with the outdoors.

And if you've been debating about Bend's best burger, the results are in: Blue Eyes takes the bronze medal, Jackson's Corner claims silver, and though we don't have the gold medal winner in our report, you might want to try both to form your own opinion.

This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Tuesday, April 29th, 2025.

We are waking up to another beautiful spring morning in Central Oregon, and if you’re looking for ways to stay engaged and informed, it’s shaping up to be a packed Tuesday. Kicking things off, today offers a unique opportunity for those curious about how our votes are counted. The Deschutes County Clerk’s Office is inviting the public to observe a live demonstration of the ballot counting system at 9 a.m. at the county administration building in downtown Bend. This behind-the-scenes look offers a chance to witness firsthand the steps taken to ensure the security and accuracy of our local elections. You’ll see ballots being scanned and counted in a process that’s fully isolated from the internet, and county staff will be on hand to answer questions. If you want to take part, remember to RSVP with the county clerk’s office.

For those thinking ahead to fire season, today also brings the next stop in the Central Oregon Fire Prevention Cooperative’s Wildfire Preparedness Fair series. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the region, this is a great way to connect with local experts and neighbors to learn about crucial fire-safety strategies. The fair is slated for this afternoon from 1 to 3 at SHARC in Sunriver and continues tomorrow evening at the COCC Mazama Gym here in Bend. Expect practical tips on home hardening, evacuation planning, and even some fun with Smokey Bear for the kids. Resources on insurance, smoke preparedness, and community Firewise programs will also be available, empowering you to help keep our community safe as the weather warms up.

In other local news, residents are breathing a sigh of relief as evacuation notices have been lifted for areas around the Bachelor Complex and Little Lava Fires. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Sunriver Police coordinated the drop in evacuation levels, signaling that current wildfires are under control and allowing families and businesses to return to their usual routines. This development is a testament to the hard work of our local firefighters and emergency crews who’ve been vigilant as fire risk rises this season.

And if you’re looking for something lighter, keep an eye out for local events this week, from art walks to outdoor yoga and community music nights. You can find details on those and more on community boards and local media outlets.

That’s your snapshot of what’s happening in Bend today. Whether you’re focused on wildfire safety, civic engagement, or just making the most of spring in Central Oregon, there’s something for everyone. This has been Bend Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.