In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🏠 The Shepherd’s House in Redmond is now open 24-hours a day

🏗️ Crews to begin dismantling façade of historic A.J. Tucker Building in downtown Bend, making way for courthouse expansion

🤝 Central Oregon Locavore Hosts Eighth Annual Gala & Fundraiser

🚨💊 CODE Operation Yields Multiple Arrests and Seizures

🏛️ Bend Urban Renewal Agency Awards $100,000 in Business Assistance Grants to Local Businesses

🏫💲🗳️ Bend-La Pine school board narrows potential operation levy for May ballot

📰 Community News

🎒👮‍♂️ “It’s A Real Stinker” Diaper Bag Recovered at Hayden Park - A Relief for Local Parent

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

What inspired the name "Silver Moon" for Silver Moon Brewing?

A) A folk legend about a mystical silver moon deity

B) Founder Tyler Reichert's favorite childhood book

C) An experience under a silver moon in Guatemala

D) A famous poem about the beauty of moonlight

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

North Oregon Cascades - Passes

For Current conditions - Tripcheck

Thursday

Patchy blowing snow in the morning. Rain, snow. Snow may be heavy at times in the morning with visibility one quarter mile or less at times. Snow level 3000 feet. Snow accumulation of 4 to 8 inches. Pass winds southwest 15 to 20 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent. Rainfall amounts a quarter to three quarters of an inch.

Thursday Night

Snow and rain in the evening, then snow after midnight. Snow level 2000 feet. Snow accumulation of 3 to 6 inches. Pass winds southeast 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent. Rainfall amounts a quarter to a half of an inch.

Friday

Mostly cloudy with a chance of snow and rain. Patchy blowing snow in the afternoon. Snow level 2000 feet. Pass winds east 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of precipitation 50 percent.

Friday Night

Patchy blowing snow in the evening. Snow and rain likely. Freezing rain likely after midnight. Snow level 3000 feet. Pass winds east 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.

Saturday

Rain and snow. Snow level 4000 feet. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent.

Saturday Night

Rain and snow. Snow level 4000 feet. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent.

Sunday

Mostly cloudy with snow likely with a chance of rain. Snow level 4500 feet. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.

Sunday Night

Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Snow level 4500 feet. Chance of precipitation 50 percent.

The Shepherd’s House in Redmond is now open 24-hours a day

It’s the non-profit’s newest site, open since November 2023. Until now, it has only been available as an overnight shelter.

With the expanded hours, the shelter space will be used as a community center providing classes and case managers to those who need them.

“They’re practical classes. they’re practical discussions. they relate to things such as healthier thinking, substance, recovery, how to have better physical health, all of those things that can provide some basic building blocks for our guests as they consider how they want to change their lives,” said John Lodise, director of low barrier service, Shepherd’s House Ministries.

By staying open 24/7, those experiencing homelessness have access to showers, laundry, and clothing when they need it.

The center is on the south side of Redmond just off Highway 97.

Crews to begin dismantling façade of historic A.J. Tucker Building in downtown Bend, making way for courthouse expansion

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Next Monday, crews will begin dismantling and cataloguing the stone blocks of the front façade of the historic AJ Tucker building, located at the corner of NW Greenwood Avenue and Harriman Street, making way for a Deschutes County Courthouse expansion after no one took the county up on a free offer of the century-old structure.

The stone from the front façade will be stored for potential future reconstruction. The remainder of the building will be demolished. Work is expected to continue through March.

The county offered to give the more than century-old building to anyone who would agree to disassemble it and put it back together at another location. But no one took them up on the offer , so commissioners voted to save the stone front and remove the rest.

The county sought approval for the removal from the Landmarks Commission to accommodate the expansion of the courthouse, which was unanimously approved in November.

While work is occurring on the AJ Tucker building, adjacent sidewalks and one crosswalk (at the corner of Greenwood and Harriman) will be closed. Pedestrians are encouraged to seek alternate routes.

Construction on the courthouse expansion project is expected to begin later this spring and continue through the fall of 2025.

According to the Historical Marker Database , A.J. Tucker came to Bend in 1916 with $180.00 in his pocket. His first work in Bend was building boats and guiding hunting parties from the eastern United States.

Tucker soon set his sights on building, and went on to create several of Bend's early stone structures, completed in 1919. It took a full year to cut the lava stone to build his blacksmith and carpentry shop. Tucker added the apartment directly north of the shop for his family home.

The post Crews to begin dismantling façade of historic A.J. Tucker Building in downtown Bend, making way for courthouse expansion appeared first on KTVZ .

Central Oregon Locavore Hosts Eighth Annual Gala & Fundraiser

Central Oregon Locavore, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting local food and farmers, is thrilled to announce its Eighth Annual Gala and Fundraiser, taking place at the prestigious Tetherow Resort on April 19.

This year’s gala promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with a gourmet multi-course farm-to-table meal, engaging activities, and a celebration of CO-llaboration and CO-operativism in the agricultural community. The theme emphasizes the importance of farmers working together, sharing resources, and supporting one another in an era where competition often overshadows collaboration.

The event will feature a variety of attractions, including a silent auction, live auction, golden ticket raffle, photographic narrative showcasing the hardworking farmers and ranchers of the region, and the infamous dessert dash – an exciting race to claim delectable desserts.

“At Central Oregon Locavore, we believe that collaboration and cooperativism are crucial values, especially in the world of farming,” said Nicolle Timm-Branch, founder and executive director of Central Oregon Locavore. “Historically, farmers have always worked together, supporting each other in bringing in harvests, raising barns, and sharing seeds. This spirit of collaboration needs to be rekindled in our modern times.”

The gala serves as a unique platform to highlight the importance of protecting local food as a precious resource. Central Oregon Locavore directly supports local farmers for the well-being of individuals, communities, society, and the planet.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that 100% of all funds raised during the event directly support local farmers and stay within Central Oregon. This gala is not just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our vibrant local food community,” added Timm-Branch.

The event is scheduled to start with exclusive access for Locavore Cultivator Club members at 4:30pm, followed by doors opening to the public at 5pm. Attendees can anticipate a night filled with culinary delights and sensory experiences that go beyond the ordinary fundraiser.

Central Oregon Locavore is actively seeking event sponsors and donations for both the silent and live auctions. Businesses and individuals interested in contributing to this extraordinary event are encouraged to contact Nicolle Timm-Branch at [email protected] or 541-633-0674.

Don’t miss out on the biggest local food event of the year. Join Central Oregon Locavore at Tetherow Resort on April 19 for an evening of collaboration, community, and culinary excellence.

Tickets, tables, donation information and item catalog can be found at Locavore Gala

centraloregonlocavore.org

CODE Operation Yields Multiple Arrests and Seizures

Bend, OR - February 13th, 2024

In a decisive blow against drug trafficking and theft, the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE) executed a successful operation culminating in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of illicit substances and stolen merchandise.

Timothy Leroy Henkel, aged 54, and Wyatt James Froome, aged 30, both identified as Bend area transients, were apprehended by CODE detectives on February 13th, 2024, at approximately 2:11 PM, bringing to a close an extensive investigation.

Mr. Henkel, a known fentanyl trafficker, came under the scrutiny of CODE detectives during ongoing surveillance activities in the parking lot of Bend's Home Depot and Sportsman's Warehouse. The investigation led to the alleged sale of controlled substances by Mr. Henkel to individuals in a silver Ford Escape. However, upon the approach of law enforcement, the vehicle fled the scene, with one occupant, identified as Henry Oswaldo Duran, escaping and evading capture.

A subsequent search of a grey Jeep, occupied by Henkel and Froome, revealed a significant quantity of fentanyl pills and methamphetamine. Additionally, detectives uncovered evidence implicating the duo in the theft of approximately $750 worth of Lego toy sets from a nearby Target store earlier that day. It was determined that the stolen merchandise was intended for resale through online platforms.

Under the provisions of House Bill 2645, signed into law in June 2023, the seized fentanyl pills meet the threshold for a "commercial quantity," thereby escalating the severity of potential sentencing. This legislative measure reflects the state's commitment to combatting the opioid crisis and associated criminal activities.

While Henkel faces charges including unlawful possession and delivery of schedule II controlled substances (Fentanyl), as well as theft II, Froome is charged with theft II.

CODE detectives are actively seeking information regarding the whereabouts of Henry Oswaldo Duran and urge the public to come forward with any relevant information. Those with tips are encouraged to contact Deschutes County Non-Emergency Dispatch at 541-693-6911, referencing Bend Police Department Case No. 24-8407.

Both Henkel and Froome have been remanded to the Deschutes County Sheriff's Jail pending further legal proceedings.

For additional information, please contact Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp at 541-550-4869 or via email at [email protected].

The success of this operation underscores the collaborative efforts of the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team and its partner agencies, supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. This multi-jurisdictional task force, comprising various law enforcement entities, remains steadfast in its mission to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within the region.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program, sponsored by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), plays a vital role in providing resources and coordination to combat local, interstate, and international drug trafficking organizations.

This operation serves as a testament to the dedication and vigilance of law enforcement in safeguarding our communities against the scourge of drugs and related criminal activities.

Bend Urban Renewal Agency Awards $100,000 in Business Assistance Grants to Local Businesses

The Bend Urban Renewal Agency has awarded $100,000 in business assistance grants to six businesses in Bend's Core Area. The grants, approved on Feb. 7, aim to support building improvements such as signage, exterior lighting, safety upgrades, permit fees, and accessibility improvements. The recipients include Colima Market, Dogwood Cocktail Cabin, Growing Tree Children's Center, Timber Kiddies Preschool, Open Space Event Studios, and a building on 1631 NE Second Street.

The agency, made up of Bend City Councilors, approved the grants. This is the first round of applications for this annual program. City Councilor and chair of the agency, Barb Campbell, commented on the program's positive impact on local businesses, including two childcare operators.

The Business Assistance Program is designed to support upgrades that enhance businesses within Bend's central area. It is funded by revenue from the Tax Increment Financing Area and aims to stimulate redevelopment, improve aesthetics, and support businesses.

The Advisory Board reviewed and scored the applications before making a funding recommendation to the agency. Projects were evaluated based on potential impact, financial need, and equitable outcomes. Priority was given to small, local, and disadvantaged businesses.

Visit here for more details

Bend-La Pine school board narrows potential operation levy for May ballot

by Steele Haugen | Central Oregon Daily News Tuesday, February 13th 2024

 Another property tax increase proposal might be on your ballot in May. The Bend-La Pine School board discussed imposing an operational levy on the voters on Tuesday night.

“We have a lot of things that our community wants us to provide in our schools, but we don’t actually have the state funding to be able to do those,” said board chair Melissa Barnes Dholakia.

The school board looked at priorities in consultant surveys to get to their $1 per $1,000 assessed value levy proposal.

“Expanding our career and our txechnical pathways so that our kids can really explore their passions, their purpose and their pathways for their future. Making sure that we maintain those small class sizes that we have and really helping our struggling students,” Barnes Dholakia said.

Just a couple of years back, voters passed a bond issue to renovate Bend Senior High School. That bond money could only be used for buildings. This levy is different.

“A bond provides for money for facilities, for structures, for capital improvements. A levy allows us to invest in programs and in people,” Barnes Dholakia said.

The levy would provide approximately $23 million in the first year.

“I see this as this next step in really ensuring that our schools are world-class, that our kids are thriving academically, they’re being known well, and that they’re really working on that passion, purpose, and plan for their future,” Barnes Dholakia said.

The board still needs to make a final decision on whether to put the property tax levy on the voters in May. That decision will happen at the end of the month.

“It’s A Real Stinker” Diaper Bag Recovered at Hayden Park - A Relief for Local Parent

Redmond, OR

In a heartwarming turn of events, a missing diaper bag was recently recovered at Hayden Park and has been safely returned to its grateful owner. The Redmond Police Department played a crucial role in reuniting the parent with their bag, which contained essential items for their little one.

The diaper bag, found on February 13, 2024, at Hayden Park, was promptly turned in to the Redmond Police Department. Recognizing the importance of the bag and its contents, especially the blankets, the staff at the police department empathized with the significance it held for the owner.

Among the items inside the diaper bag was a rather unpleasant surprise - a "loaded diaper." However, in consideration of their evidence staff's well-being, the police department thoughtfully removed it from the bag before further processing.

After sharing the news on their official Facebook page, Samantha Osborn, who claimed to be the owner of the lost diaper bag, quickly responded. Relieved and overjoyed by the discovery of her missing belongings, Osborn reached out to the Redmond Police Department by calling their helpline at 541-504-3414.

Osborn revealed that her diaper bag had been stolen from her car over the weekend alongside a winter jacket. Losing these essential items must have been a source of immense distress for any parent. However, with the recovery of the diaper bag, Osborn expressed her immense gratitude and relief.

The Redmond Police Department is now making arrangements to return the diaper bag to its rightful owner. This heartwarming act of community support showcases not only the dedication of law enforcement but also highlights the importance of coming together as a community to help those in need.

Incidents like these serve as a reminder for all parents to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their belongings. By locking car doors, staying vigilant, and keeping valuable items out of sight, we can collectively reduce the likelihood of theft and prevent similar situations from occurring.

The recovery of the diaper bag at Hayden Park not only serves as a testament to the hard work of the Redmond Police Department but also demonstrates the power of social media in reconnecting lost items with their owners. This heartwarming story is a shining example of how a community can rally together and support one another.

As Samantha Osborn prepares to reclaim her diaper bag, the incident will surely serve as a memorable experience for both her and the Redmond Police Department. Their commitment to reuniting families with their lost possessions exemplifies their dedication to serving and protecting the community.

In a world where negative news often dominates headlines, this heartwarming story reminds us all that even in challenging times, there is still room for acts of kindness, compassion, and community support.

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 

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!

What inspired the name "Silver Moon" for Silver Moon Brewing?

A) A folk legend about a mystical silver moon deity

B) Founder Tyler Reichert's favorite childhood book

C) An experience under a silver moon in Guatemala

D) A famous poem about the beauty of moonlight

Answer: D) An experience under a silver moon in Guatemala

Silver Moon Brewing got its name from an interesting anecdote. The brewery's name is inspired by an experience the founder, Tyler Reichert, had while traveling in Guatemala. One night, he was sitting outside under a silver moon, enjoying a local beer, when he had the realization that he wanted to start his own brewery. The serene atmosphere and the beauty of the moment stuck with him, leading him to choose "Silver Moon" as the name for his future brewery.

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