In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🐶 Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Request Public Assistance in Finding Owner of 8 Abandoned Puppies

⚖️Family Files Lawsuit Against Deschutes County Jail Following Inmate's Suicide

🚨 Madras Police Respond to Despondent Person Incident

🏛️ City of Bend - This week’s Meetings

🧑‍🚒 Jefferson County Fire & EMS Proposes $14.5 Million Bond for Equipment and Facility Upgrades

📰 Regional News

🐋.Deceased Whale Discovery on Sunset Beach

📰 Community News

🚴Ten MX13 motocross riders place 1st at Arenacross Nationals

📅 Lots of Events

🐶 Pet of the Week - Meet Turk!

What inspired the name "Bevel" for Bevel Craft Brewing?

A) The shape of their signature beer glass
B) The beveled edge of a disc golf disc
C) The geographical features of Bend, Oregon
D) The founders' favorite woodworking tool

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Request Public Assistance in Finding Owner of 8 Abandoned Puppies

Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

Release Date: February 12, 2024

On February 8^th, 2024, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the La Pine Animal Hospital regarding 8 puppies that were brought in by a concerned citizen. During the course of the investigation it was determined the 8 puppies, who were believed to be approximately 7-8 weeks old were abandoned in the area of Boundary Road and Camino De Oro Avenue in La Pine. 

A witness advised that a green Subaru was seen leaving the area, driven by a late 20’s male and a female passenger. The witness was unable to obtain a license plate of the Subaru. Keeping in mind this vehicle may be un-related, investigators would like to contact the driver and passenger of the green Subaru.

The 8 puppies were eventually transported to the Humane Society in Bend, where they were all evaluated and are currently being treated.

Based on the information gathered it appears the puppies were abandoned. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is attempting to locate the puppies’ owners, if anyone recognizes the puppies or has information regarding the owner(s) please contact Deschutes County 911 Dispatch Center (non-emergency 541-693-6911), reference case number 24-7083.

Family Files Lawsuit Against Deschutes County Jail Following Inmate's Suicide

The family of Kendra Sawyer, a woman who died by suicide in the Deschutes County Jail last year, has filed a lawsuit against the county. Kendra, 22, was arrested for a probation violation and was struggling with active opioid addiction at the time. Her father claims that her incarceration sent her into severe withdrawal, leading her to harm herself inside the jail. The lawsuit alleges that county staff should have recognized Kendra's need for medical care and proper monitoring but failed to provide it. The complaint seeks damages for negligence, wrongful death, and civil rights violations.

For the full Story: OPB

Madras Police Respond to Despondent Person Incident

Madras, OR - 911 dispatchers were alerted to a distressing situation at approximately 6:25 pm on February 12, 2024, when they received a request for a welfare check on a despondent individual in a residence situated in the 400 block of Northeast Cedar Street. The caller reported concerning details, indicating that the male subject inside had harmed himself and discharged firearms within the premises. Fortunately, all other occupants managed to leave the property unharmed and sought refuge in a safe location offsite.

In response to the urgent call, officers swiftly mobilized, aided by reinforcements from neighboring law enforcement agencies, while Emergency Medical Services personnel remained on standby. The Central Oregon Emergency Response Team was deployed to manage the escalating situation. Concerns were compounded when firefighters detected a strong smell of natural or propane gas around the vicinity at approximately 7:16 pm, prompting authorities to engage Cascade Natural Gas for a precautionary gas shutoff, ensuring the safety of nearby residents.

As a precautionary measure, an emergency notification was disseminated through the Jefferson County Everbridge system, advising residents to shelter in place until further notice. This measure was enacted to safeguard the community against potential hazards. Officers obtained a search warrant at 7:30 pm and subsequently entered the residence at 8:20 pm. The individual in distress was safely extracted and promptly transported to St. Charles Hospital for evaluation.

Police Chief Timothy Plummer commended the coordinated efforts of law enforcement personnel, dispatchers, and the community, emphasizing the paramount importance placed on the safety and well-being of all individuals involved. Plummer stated, "From beginning to end, officers kept the safety of all, including the person experiencing crisis, at the forefront." He further expressed gratitude for the cooperation of neighbors and praised the seamless collaboration among law enforcement teams.

Following the resolution of the incident, the shelter-in-place order was lifted, allowing evacuees to return to their homes. Law enforcement maintained a presence in the area to conclude their investigation and ensure continued safety and security.

While the incident underscored the temporary disruptions faced by residents, Chief Plummer emphasized that such measures were imperative to safeguard the welfare of the community.

Chief Plummer highlighted the availability of mental health resources, urging individuals in crisis or those concerned about others to seek assistance promptly. Nationwide support is accessible 24/7 by dialing 988.

City of Bend

Learn More: City of Bend

Jefferson County Fire & EMS Proposes $14.5 Million Bond for Equipment and Facility Upgrades

MADRAS, Ore. -- Jefferson County Fire & EMS is proposing a $14.5 million bond for the May ballot. The agency's Board of Directors is scheduled to vote Feb. 22 at 4:30 p.m. on a resolution to ask voters to consider the capital bond request.

The bond would fund equipment, fire apparatus, and facility upgrades to protect first responders and improve response times. The department has not requested a capital bond since 1998 and is now in need of modernization due to population growth. The 15-year bond will be split into two series, taking advantage of expected growth to lower the bond rate. A citizen oversight committee and the district's board of directors will review expenditures to ensure funds are used appropriately. Projects included in the bond are upgrades to emergency apparatus, renovations and expansion of fire stations, improvements to training grounds, and firefighting equipment upgrades. The bond will prepare the fire district for continued growth while protecting the community.

Deceased Whale Discovery on Sunset Beach

Residents of Warrenton, Ore., were met with an unexpected sight on Monday morning as news broke of a deceased whale washing ashore along the picturesque Oregon coast. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the massive fin whale was discovered on Sunset Beach, near Astoria.

The precise timing of the whale's arrival remains unclear, but it is believed to have occurred in the early hours of Monday. Responding swiftly to the discovery, NOAA has announced plans for a thorough examination, scheduled for Tuesday. Similar to a human autopsy, this necropsy will provide vital insights into the circumstances surrounding the whale's passing, shedding light on its health and potential causes of death.

This incident comes on the heels of a series of strandings in 2023, which saw three fin whales stranded along the West Coast, as reported by NOAA. Fin whales, the second-largest species of whale on the planet after the majestic blue whale, are distinguished by their prominent dorsal fins, located near their tail. These magnificent creatures typically weigh between 40 to 80 tons and measure 75 to 85 feet in length, boasting an impressive lifespan of 80 to 90 years.

While fin whales are commonly found in various regions including Alaska, New England/Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Islands, Southeast, and the West Coast, their presence along the Oregon coast remains a rare and awe-inspiring sight for locals and visitors alike. As the community awaits further updates following the necropsy, this event serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse marine life that graces our shores and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures for generations to come.

Ten MX13 motocross riders place 1st at Arenacross Nationals

 by Steele Haugen | Central Oregon Daily News Monday, February 12th 2024

The 2024 Arenacross National racing competition is now in the books, but for one group of Central Oregon riders, their path to that competition faced some pushback.

After years of work with the county and noise complaints from neighbors during an open hearing last year, Justin Homan and his MX13 practice track were officially approved.

“Homan MX13 helps us a lot, and we’re lucky we live so close to his facility that we can just go there like after school or whenever he does ride days like Saturday, Sunday type deals,” said 14-year-old Jace Hamrick.

After working towards permits and coaching certificates, the dream of county-approved classes in his backyard became a reality in October. Kids say they are reaping the benefits.

“That made me go from like not being able to do anything really safely to now if I’m going to do something, I know how to do it safely and in a controlled like manner and everything like that,” said 17-year-old rider Zach Francies.

Last weekend was the perfect opportunity to test those safety skills as 500 riders participated in the dangerous Northwest Arenacross Nationals held at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond.

“It makes it like harder, like more, it’s more of a chance like past people. And I feel like that’s always fun because it’s just different,” said 12-year-old MX13 rider Hadlie Hamrick.

More experienced riders are seeing the transformation from a fun backyard course to an approved business.

“It’s more professional,” said a 19-year-old MX13 rider Shor Miller. “Everything’s done digitally to sign up and pay. So that’s nice, and I think we’re allowed to have 20 people or however many. So, it’s a pretty good crew to have out there.”

Of those 500 riders who participated in all, 30 Central Oregonians from La Pine to Prineville trained through MX13, with ten riders placing first in a third-place professional race.

What’s Up Central Oregon

Bend Winter Fest 2024 - February 16th, 17th & 18th

WINTERFEST RETURNS TO BEND THIS FEBRUARY 16-18, 2024!

Get ready to experience the pure magic of winter in Bend, with a ton of cool activities and fun stuff for everyone. Here's what's in store for you:

🎶 Live Music

🌟 Dazzling Light Art

🛍️ Shopping & Food

🏂 Winter Gear

🔥 Fire Sculptures & Ice Carving

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

🍫 Hot Cocoa Run

Zwickelmania 2024!

Zwickelmania, a much-anticipated annual event celebrated across Oregon, offers beer enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of the state's brewing culture. Scheduled for Saturday, February 17th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., this event is a showcase of Oregon's craft beer prowess, featuring brewery tours, special beer releases, and the chance to meet the brewers behind some of the state's favorite beers. Participating breweries span from Gold Beach to Portland to Central Oregon, each offering a unique experience, such as Zwickel samples, food specials, guided tastings, and family-friendly activities. Zwickelmania is not just about beer tasting; it's an educational experience that brings beer lovers closer to the brewing process and the community that supports it. For more details and a list of participating breweries, visit the Oregon Craft Beer website 

Wednesday February 14th

Sunset Snowshoe Tour Mt Bachelor 3:30PM - 6:30PM

Valentine's Dinner & Dance @ The Great Hall Sunriver Resort 5:00PM - 8:30PM

Kids Night Out With Camp Fire Central Oregon Amity Creek Magnet @ Thompson Elemenatry 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Under The Sea Valentine's Dinner @ Flights Wine Bar 5:30PM - 8:00PM

Valentine's Day Jazz Dinner General Duffy’s Waterhole 6:00PM - 10:00PM

The Valentine's Day Show @ McMenamins 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Wunderlust Tours: Romance On The Snow 7:00PM - 11:00PM

HDCM Concert Series: AVIARA TRIO Tower Theatre 7:30PM - 9:00PM

Valentine's Special Buffet Taj Palace $20.95

Valentine's Day Dinner @ Sunriver Resort $110 per person

Thursday February 15th

Thrifty Thursdays@Hoodoo 9:00AM $33

Board Wax, BBQ, Beignets & Beer @ Boneyard 3:00PM - 7:00PM

Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) Tower Theatre 6:00PM

Suttle Lodge's Fireside Concert Series: Alicia Viani And Mark Karwan Fireside Show 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Friday February 16th

Craft Beer Tastings @ Sunriver Resort 4:00PM - 6:00PM

Romance in the Cave Tour Juniper Preserve 4:00PM - 5:30PM

Saturday February 17th

Bend Winter Fest Old Mill District

ZwickelMania - several Breweries

Sleeper Comedy with Sean Jordan Silver Moon 7:00PM

Saturday Jazz Sessions T5 Trio River’s Place Bend 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Free Muffin & Mimosas Board & Brush Bend 11:00AM - 2:00PM

Valentine’s Partner Yoga Namaspa Yoga & Massage Bend (main Studio) 3:00PM - 5:00PM

Sunday February 18th

Sunny Sweeney Volcanic Theatre Bend 8:00PM

Open Sets & Inventory Sale Nailed It with Lyndsey Bend 1:30PM

Amazing Puppy & Doggy Adoption Event - By Amazing Dogs @PetSmart Bend 11:00AM - 1:00PM

A preview of upcoming Community Education courses for you.

From Cascade Business News (CBN)

Deschutes Public Library Events

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

Click here to let us know about your upcoming Event!

This week’s pet is from

Street Dog Hero

Meet Turk

Meet Turk! Turk is a stunning mixed breed boy who has such a beautiful short brindle coat, and quite the amazing personality to match. He's ready for all of the adventures that await him and to go to his forever home. He was part of a big group of pups who arrived in our program from a shelter down in Central California. He's now in temporary foster care here in Oregon, spending time with a wonderful trainer/foster where he's getting to learn the ropes of being a confident household pet and companion to a very lucky person or family. He'll do best with someone who's patient, who will continue in his training and who is more on the active side and also loves adventure as much as Turk does! Having another older friendly dog around or two has proven to be helpful for him in improving his confidence. He's still a bit shy when meeting new people, but he's improving more and more every day with both his basic manners and social skills too. Submit your adoption application through our website today and don't miss this opportunity to bring this lovable pup home with you for a home trial towards his adoption. Will you be his hero?

Breed

Shepherd / Terrier, American Staffordshire

Sex

Male

Weight

23 lbs

Age

0Y/6M/1W

Location

Foster Home

Adoption Fee

$550.00

What inspired the name "Bevel" for Bevel Craft Brewing?

A) The shape of their signature beer glass
B) The beveled edge of a disc golf disc
C) The geographical features of Bend, Oregon
D) The founders' favorite woodworking tool

Correct Answer: B) The beveled edge of a disc golf disc

The name "Bevel" was inspired by the innovative beveled edge on disc golf discs, which revolutionized the sport by allowing discs to fly further. This spirit of innovation reflects the brewery's approach to the craft beer industry. For more details, you can visit their website: Bevel Craft Brewing - Our Story.

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