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- 🏡Historic Property in Sisters Set to Undergo Transformation /🌠Unusually bright meteor lights up Bend’s sky
🏡Historic Property in Sisters Set to Undergo Transformation /🌠Unusually bright meteor lights up Bend’s sky
Issue #070
Although we strive to be accurate in the news articles we curate and post we will sometimes make mistakes - as in yesterday’s post “County Leaders Discussing Measure 110 Reforms in Salem” There was an error in part of the post, this is the correct information:
The debate revolves around whether drug possession should be classified as a Class C misdemeanor (Democrats' proposal) or a more severe Class A misdemeanor (supported by Republicans). Class A misdemeanors carry a potential sentence of up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $6,250, while Class C misdemeanors have a maximum punishment of 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,250.
County leaders are divided on this issue, with some believing that a Class A misdemeanor would provide clearer direction for law enforcement and the district attorney's office, while others think a Class C misdemeanor would be too lenient.
This issue’s Sponsor is
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In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…
🤔Local Trivia
🌄 Bend, OR Weather
📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?
🚼“Age-Friendly Sisters Country” Launches Family-Friendly Restroom Initiative
👷🚨Contractor hits NE Bend gas line; Studio Road closed, preschool shelters in place
👮♂️Drones in Action: Enhancing Bend Police Operations 721 flights and 230 events covered last year
🏡Historic Property in Sisters Set to Undergo Transformation
🦅Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory Mourns the Loss of Aquila the Golden Eagle
🌠Unusually bright meteor lights up Bend’s sky
🎭🏆Redmond High Theatre Company Shines at Oregon Thespian Acting Competition!
❄️🍻🎉Announcing the Fifth Annual Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival, February 23-25
😁 MEME of the Day
📅 Lots of Events
Which of the following is recognized as an International Dark Sky Place in Central Oregon?
A) Bend
B) Smith Rock State Park
C) Prineville Reservoir State Park
D) Tumalo State Park
👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newsletter👇
BEND
Northern Oregon Cascades
Thursday
Snow likely, mainly in the morning. Snow level 2000 feet. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch. Pass winds west 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of snow 70 percent.
Thursday Night
Snow likely. Snow level 2000 feet. Pass winds west 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70 percent.
Friday
Snow likely. A chance of rain in the afternoon. Snow level 2000 feet. Pass winds west 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy. A chance of snow and rain in the evening. Snow level 3000 feet. Chance of precipitation 30 percent.
Saturday
Partly sunny with a slight chance of snow. A slight chance of rain in the morning, then a chance of rain in the afternoon. Snow level 3500 feet. Chance of precipitation 30 percent.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Snow level 5000 feet. Chance of precipitation 50 percent.
Sunday
Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Snow level 4500 feet. Chance of precipitation 50 percent.
Sunday Night
Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Snow level 4000 feet. Chance of precipitation 40 percent.
“Age-Friendly Sisters Country” Launches Family-Friendly Restroom Initiative, Installing Diaper Changing Stations at Local Businesses
Sisters, OR - Calling all families in the Sisters area! Age-Friendly Sisters Country (AFSC) is spearheading an incredible initiative to make our local businesses more family-friendly. Thanks to the dedication and personal experiences of parents Kellen and Jane Klein, this project aims to install diaper changing stations and other amenities in order to ensure hygienic conditions for parents and children. With the support of our community and local businesses, AFSC is determined to install changing stations in numerous locations, offer resources to interested businesses, and advocate for mandatory family-friendly bathrooms in public spaces. So, join the movement and support this wonderful initiative that aims to make our community more inclusive and welcoming for families. Together, we can make a difference!
If you're interested in donating, you can donate online at agefriendlysisters.com/donate . You can also visit the organization's Link Tree that will give access to all sorts of resources, including links to add an in-need business to the list, or for a business owner can sign a "letter of intent," to let the program know of their interest.
Contractor hits NE Bend gas line; Studio Road closed, preschool shelters in place
Drones in Action: Enhancing Bend Police Operations 721 flights and 230 events covered last year
Bend, OR - Bend Police are using drones to enhance response to calls, with 721 flights and 230 events covered last year. Drones provide crucial information from various angles, aiding in search and rescue, executing warrants, and crime scene investigations. Despite initial controversy, state law permits drone use with restrictions. Each use must be justified, and Bend Police have seen increasing utility from drones. Officers undergo specialized training, and drones aid in prosecution with video evidence. While promoting safety, drones come with a significant cost, ranging from $2,000 to $12,000.
Historic Property in Sisters Set to Undergo Transformation
Sisters, OR - Nestled just north of East Barclay Drive on the west side of Camp Polk Road lies a piece of history with a story to tell. Dating back to 1911, this property has seen various incarnations, from a schoolhouse to a family residence, and most recently, a charming bed-and-breakfast operated by Frank and Marie Conklin in the 1980s.
Described in travel guides as "country elegance in a serene pastoral setting," the Conklin's bed-and-breakfast offered a perfect escape for romantic getaways and weddings. With its picturesque Craftsman-style farmhouse, complete with a wrap-around porch, deck, and manicured grounds, the property exuded old-fashioned warmth and charm.
However, as time passed, the Conklins moved on, and the property fell into disrepair. Plans to revive it as an 85-seat restaurant with rental bungalows in 2006 never came to fruition, despite initial excitement.
Since then, the property has changed hands multiple times, with its value steadily increasing. Recently listed for $2.95 million, the 4.6-acre property has caught the attention of developers eager to breathe new life into its historic grounds.
The proposed vision for the property? A boutique RV park, offering a unique accommodation experience for visitors to Sisters. To gather community input and discuss proposed zoning changes, a neighborhood meeting was held on January 10, inviting property owners within 500 feet and interested community members.
Jon Skidmore, a planning consultant working with the developers, expressed optimism about the project's potential. He emphasized that the goal of the meeting was to gather feedback and discuss potential concepts for the property. Any specific development plans would need further approval from the Planning Commission and City Council.
Skidmore highlighted the property's significance as a landmark and its potential to enhance tourism and community gathering spaces in Sisters. While details about the project are still emerging, the developers aim to bring it to fruition by 2025.
As this storied property prepares for its next chapter, the community eagerly awaits to see how its rich history will blend with the promise of a vibrant future.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory Mourns the Loss of Aquila the Golden Eagle
Sunriver, OR - The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (SNCO) bid a heartfelt farewell to Aquila, their beloved Golden Eagle resident of over four decades, earlier this week. Aquila's journey at the Nature Center began in 1984 when she became the victim of a car strike, leaving her visually impaired and unable to survive in the wild.
Despite her challenges, Aquila became a cherished ambassador for her species, captivating the hearts of countless individuals throughout Central Oregon and beyond. From classrooms to nature festivals, she graced diverse communities, offering rare encounters and invaluable educational opportunities about Golden Eagles.
Within her habitat at the Nature Center, Aquila thrived as an active participant in daily life. Known for her gentle demeanor, she greeted familiar caretakers with soft calls, delighted in splashing in her bath pan, and meticulously preened her majestic feathers in the sunlight. Each spring, she dutifully crafted nests, a testament to her maternal instincts, although they often cradled infertile eggs.
Aquila's longevity was remarkable; few Golden Eagles have been observed living beyond 20 years, yet she surpassed 40. Despite diligent monitoring and care from her devoted team, Aquila's health declined sharply at the start of the year, culminating in her peaceful passing on January 26. In honor of her significance to indigenous cultures, her remains will be respectfully sent to the National Eagle Repository, aligning with the Native American Eagle Feather Program.
Her legacy endures in the hearts of all who encountered her. Beyond her captivating presence, Aquila's life conveyed critical messages about conservation, including the importance of road safety and the detrimental impact of lead poisoning on eagle populations. Through her influence, SNCO hopes to inspire ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the majestic Golden Eagles across the nation. Memorial Page
Did you See it? Unusually bright meteor lights up Bend’s sky
Tuesday, February 6th 2024
An unusually bright meteor lit up Bend’s night sky Monday. Videos circulated on social media, with some witnesses asking if anyone else had seen the “fireball.”
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” witness Rendy Tucker said. “After I realized it wasn’t a shooting star, I started to worry that it might be a plane crashing, which was really scary to think of.”
The meteor streaked across the sky, headed southwest at about 9:00 p.m.
Sunriver Observatory Manager Paul Poncy said it wasn’t a plane and it likely wasn’t space debris. It was just an unusually bright meteor.
“Something that gives off that much light probably is the size of a golf ball, maybe a baseball. Not as big as one would think. A typical shooting star you may see that zips across the sky really quick, size of a grain of sand,” Poncy said. But how does something so small emit so much light?
“What we have to consider is how much energy it takes to burn rock and give off a little plasma field in front of it. So when it’s a big fire ball like that, it might be a little bit bigger. But even a golf ball-sized rock will put off a enough light to cast shadows,” Poncy said.
The actual size of the space rock came as a surprise to some witnesses.
“It looked so huge from our point of view. I don’t understand,” Stella Tucker said.
Redmond High Theatre Company Shines at Oregon Thespian Acting Competition!
Last weekend, the talented students of Redmond High Theatre Company proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of theater. The group participated in the highly anticipated Oregon Thespian Acting Competition and left a lasting impression on the judges and audiences alike.
In the Group Acting category, the team of Mari Barnes, Maggie Calder, Val Malave, and Lillian Moons brought home regional finalist honors. Their captivating performance and impeccable teamwork impressed all the judges, earning them well-deserved Superior rankings. The group's dedication and commitment to their craft were clearly evident on stage.
Not stopping there, Redmond High Theatre Company continued to shine in the Solo Acting category. Emilie Ruiz and Corbin Jaentsch delivered powerful solo performances that captivated the audience and judges alike. Their exceptional talent and hard work were recognized with Superior rankings, further cementing their place as rising stars in the theater community.
The achievements of these remarkable students don't end with the regional competition. As regional finalists, Mari, Maggie, Val, Lillian, Emilie, and Corbin have earned the opportunity to showcase their talents at the prestigious International Thespian Festival in June. This incredible honor allows them to represent not only Redmond High School but also our entire community on an international stage.
The International Thespian Festival is a renowned event that brings together talented young actors from all over the world. It serves as a platform for these aspiring performers to connect with industry professionals, attend workshops and performances, and gain invaluable experience. Being selected to participate in this festival is a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of our Redmond High Theatre Company students.
None of this would be possible without the unwavering support from our community. From parents and teachers to friends and local businesses, everyone has played a significant role in nurturing and fostering the passion for theater within these talented individuals. Your continuous encouragement and support have undoubtedly contributed to their success.
As we eagerly await the International Thespian Festival in June, let us come together as a community and rally behind Mari, Maggie, Val, Lillian, Emilie, and Corbin. Their journey has only just begun, and with our support, they can continue to reach new heights in their acting careers.
Congratulations to Redmond High Theatre Company for their outstanding achievements at the Oregon Thespian Acting Competition. Your dedication, talent, and hard work have truly paid off. We cannot wait to see what incredible performances await us at the International Thespian Festival!
Announcing the Fifth Annual Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival, February 23-25
Tickets are now on sale for the fifth annual Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival, taking place Friday, February 23 through Sunday, February 25, 2024, benefitting CASA of Central Oregon.
Set under the snow-dusted pines in the Deschutes National Forest, on the shore of Suttle Lake, The Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival is a one-of-a-kind Bavarian-inspired outdoor festival featuring 25+ craft breweries, cozy winter lodge vibes and more.
“It’s a gorgeous winter wonderland at Suttle Lodge in February, and we’re excited to once again welcome guests to enjoy the crisp forest air and serene lake views alongside our roaring fires, great live music, delicious food, and favorite breweries – from Oregon and beyond!” says Donald Kenney of The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse. “The Winter Beer Festival is a celebration of the year-round fun to be had here in Central Oregon at Suttle Lodge.”
Each day of the festival from 12pm-5pm, the six cabins in Suttle Lodge’s Rustic Village will be transformed into Rifugio Huts in the tradition of backcountry ski culture that Central Oregon is known for, serving new seasonal and limited-release craft beers from all around the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The Lodge itself will be open for all festival attendees to enjoy as well, with comfy seating and a special food menu from Chef Ariel Dyer.
The complete list of participating breweries will be announced in January, but beer fans can prepare to see their favorite local breweries represented, as well as a choice selection of destination-worthy out-of-state brews, like Jester King from Texas, Aslan Brewing from Bellingham, and Pure Project from San Diego.
Those looking for a little extra can purchase the festival’s VIP ticket experience, which includes access to a VIP Cabin serving reserve beers and spirits, tasty snacks and more.
Single Day and Weekend Pass tickets are available with GA and VIP options, ranging from $55-$215 per person. Discounted event entry for designated drivers is $10 per day or $25 for the weekend, and kids have free entry, with plenty of hot cocoa and warm apple cider to enjoy. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are also welcome.
A portion of the proceeds from the 2024 Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival will be donated to CASA of Central Oregon, a nonprofit organization that recruits, trains and supports volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the court system. CASA volunteers work within the courts in collaboration with key agencies, legal counsel and community resources to ensure that every child in foster care in Central Oregon can transition into a safe and permanent home.
Event Details at a Glance:
What: Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival
Dates: Friday, February 23rd through Sunday, February 25th 2024
Time: 12pm to 5pm daily
Location: The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 U.S. Highway 20, Sisters, Oregon, 97759
Tickets: $55-$215 per person at GA and VIP levels for Single Day and Weekend Passes, which include tasting tickets, a commemorative cup and more. $10-$25 tickets available for Designated Drivers, and kids have free entry. Dogs are welcome.
Link: thesuttlelodge.com/happenings/upcoming/wbf
About The Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival:
The Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival has been an annual tradition at the Lodge since 2020, inspired by European winter markets and festivals, and the “Rifugio” (mountain hut or refuge) culture of the Alps. This festival captures the spirit of classic mountain hut accommodations cherished by Alpine hikers, climbers, and ski mountaineers, as well as Central Oregon’s vibrant backcountry ski hut culture. The Winter Beer Festival is a celebration of seasonal beers, fresh mountain air and the magic of winter. In addition to celebrating Oregon’s craft beer community, the festival also supports the community at large via its charitable partners (Oregon Adaptive Sports- 2020, Independent Restaurant Alliance Oregon- 2021, CASA of Central Oregon- 2022, 2023, 2024).
About The Suttle Lodge:
The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse is a rustic resort on the shore of Suttle Lake in the Deschutes National Forest near Sisters, Oregon. The 15.5-acre property comprises a large timber lodge with guest rooms and a cocktail bar, fully equipped lakeside cabins, rustic camping cabins, and The Boathouse restaurant on a lakefront dock. The lodge is located at 13300 US Highway 20, Sisters, Oregon, 97759. Tel. 541.638.7001 | Instagram @SuttleLodgethesuttlelodge.com
Upcoming Events
What’s Up Central Oregon
Special Fundraiser Event coming up for one of our favorite Non-Profits
Thursday February 8th
Friday February 9th
Saturday February 10th
A preview of upcoming Community Education courses for you.
Got an upcoming event you want us to share?
Which of the following is recognized as an International Dark Sky Place in Central Oregon?
A) Bend
B) Smith Rock State Park
C) Prineville Reservoir State Park
D) Tumalo State Park
Answer: C) Prineville Reservoir State Park
Prineville Reservoir State Park in Central Oregon has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, which signifies its exceptional quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, and public enjoyment values. This recognition emphasizes the park's commitment to preserving the night sky and providing a destination for astronomers and stargazers who wish to experience the wonders of the cosmos without the interference of light pollution. For more detailed information, visiting the Visit Central Oregon website would be beneficial.
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