In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🐴Bureau of Land Management seeks public input on Horse Ridge Recreation Area Non-Motorized Project

📰Family seeks information on missing woman

🛫 Redmond Airport Gets $7 Million Federal Grant

🔥💦Fire sprinkler saves apartment building in SW Bend

🛣️Crash Closes U.S. Highway 26 Near Warm Springs

🚨 Bend Man Arrested Twice in a Week for Theft and Identity Fraud

🚨 Stolen Backhoe's 250-Mile Journey: From Bend, Oregon to Mattawa, Washington

🏛️🗳️Redmond Council Proposes Charter Changes: Term Limits and Anti-Nepotism on May Ballot

📰 Regional News

⚖️Southern California Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison - Eugene, OR

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

💖 Monday’s Health Corner - Embracing the Light: The Transformative Power of Laser Therapy

 What is the origin of the name "Bend," Oregon?

A) It was named after a prominent figure named Benjamin Bend.

B) The name comes from "Farewell Bend," a reference to a significant bend in the Deschutes River where the town developed.

C) It was named for a type of tree found abundantly in the area.

D) The name was chosen randomly by the town's founders.

I know it’s probably an easy one for you all, hey it’s Monday, we don’t want to tax our brains too much…. 😁

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

Bureau of Land Management seeks public input on Horse Ridge Recreation Area Non-Motorized Project -

02/09/24 
Deshutes County, OR - The Bureau of Land Management is opening a 30-day public scoping period today to seek input on the Horse Ridge Recreational Area Non-Motorized Project. The Horse Ridge Recreation Area is in Deschutes County approximately 13 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon.  

The primary draw to the Horse Ridge Recreation Area is mountain biking in the southern half of the HRRA, where Horse Ridge itself is located. Currently, there are over 50 miles of user-created, non-motorized trails traversing the ridge. The HRRA lacks a formally designated trail system. The BLM is proposing to establish an official trail system and may enhance existing trails, build new trails, and close other trails. The BLM also proposes the expansion of the two parking areas that provide access to the HRRA and the Horse Ridge and Big Sagebrush Trailheads as well as the addition of American with Disabilities Act accessible toilets at both trailheads. Other new infrastructure could include handicap parking spaces, a paved route from the handicap parking space to the toilet, and picnic tables. The project would also protect the Horse Ridge Research Natural Area, which is a designated National Natural Landmark (1968).

“The Horse Ridge Recreation Area is already well-loved,” said Lisa Clark, BLM Deschutes Field Office Manager. “We just need to make sure the use and development of the official trail system provides the high-quality recreation experience that our visitors expect while preserving and protecting habitat and the Horse Ridge Research Natural Area.”

The purpose of this notice is to provide the public with an opportunity to share any comments or ideas they may have about how this area should or should not be developed. The BLM is in the scoping phase of the analysis, which means that any comments received will be used to refine the proposed action, identify issues for further analysis, and develop alternatives. If you have comments, please send them to the BLM by March 13, 2024. Additional information on the proposal is posted on BLM’s ePlanning website: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2030546/510.  

Comments can be submitted in hardcopy, through email, through the BLM’s online platform ePlanning, or by calling the BLM. The details for each commenting method are listed below.

Hard copy: Lisa Clark, Deschutes Field Manager at 3050 NE Third Street; Prineville, OR 97754
Email: [email protected]
ePlanning: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2030546/510
Telephone: (541) 416-4634

Comments are most useful if they are specific to the actions proposed, provide additional information about the project area, or identify issues or concerns with the proposal. There will be another public comment period on the environmental assessment before the BLM issues a decision.  

Please be aware comments, including your personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, it is not guaranteed.  

For additional information, please contact Cece Brick, Outdoor Recreation Planner, at (541) 416-4634 or by email at [email protected]v. Individuals in the United States who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability may dial 711 (TTY, TDD, or TeleBraille) to access telecommunications relay services. Individuals outside the United States should use the relay services offered within their country to make international calls to the point-of-contact in the United States.

Bend Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of February 19 – 25

Family seeks information on missing woman

By Jim Cornelius The Nugget Newspaper

Sisters, OR - The family of a U.S. Marine veteran and Sisters High School graduate has launched a campaign seeking information on her whereabouts.

Kirsten Anne Clarke reportedly left service and cut off all contact with family and friends in March 2023. Clarke's family lived in Sisters from 2006 to 2020, and still maintains property and connections in the area. Kirsten Clarke graduated from Sisters High School in 2011. She was a cross country runner. She joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a corpsman (medic).

Veterans advocate Anginette Echols, adjutant with the Jackson County Department of Veteran Affairs, is assisting the Clarke family. Echols provided information posted widely on social media:

"We have a missing Marine. In March 2023, she unexpectedly left service and cut off all contact with family and friends. In 2022, she requested her family send her all her savings bonds, birth certificate, and other documentation. She claimed per email, she needed them for "orders" or she was going to be in trouble. Although her father discouraged against sending her records abroad, He did so at her request. her family feels she may have gotten into some trouble and may not know how to get out of it.

"Her best friend from high school received the same messages of no contact. All emails and packages have not been picked up and mail is being returned. (Even her FPO/APO letters are saying unable to forward.) Her family attempted to send a package in October 2023 with signature. It is still sitting in Glendale, Arizona, and has not been returned yet. If Kirsten is safe, her family will respect this but this behavior is unlike their daughter so they are asking for the veteran communities' help."

Echols and Lorna Clarke both told The Nugget that they do not know what happened to cause Kirsten to cut off contact. They are urging her to seek help from the Veterans Administration and to let her loved ones know she's OK.

Echols noted that, "Kirsten was an avid cyclist. She used to cycle from Sisters to Bend all the time." She surmises that she might be found on the road.

Echols noted that, since she explicitly cut off contact, they don't expect Clarke to reach out to her family, which is why they urge her to contact the VA. They just hope she will reach out to someone.

"They're not trying to force her to come home," Echols said. "They just want to know that she's safe."

Anyone with information is asked to call Dave and Lorna Clarke at 541-270-8921 or email: [email protected]m

This story first appeared in The Nugget Newspaper

Redmond Airport Gets $7 Million Federal Grant

Posted by Mike Thomas KBND

REDMOND, OR -- Redmond Airport is getting more federal grant money. Airport Director Zach Bass tells KBND News funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law-Airport Terminals Program will help with the terminal building expansion project, “We've been planning for the last four or five years for this expansion.

And as we can tell by this grant of $7-million we're reaching out to get financing in any way possible. It's a small portion, but it's important. It does give us the opportunity to do some things we might not have been able to do without it.”

The project will double the terminal’s size over five phases. “Right now, the project is estimated to cost about $150-million or so. We are going to be moving forward with the expansion late this summer, or early fall. The project will have jet bridges, a new concourse expanded capabilities for baggage systems. And all the money that we receive helps kind of get us to the finish line,” Bass says, adding the airport continues to look for more funding. “We are in the process of putting in a $10 million grant with the state and we keep talking with the Feds about some other opportunities over the next few years.

So, we always have grants somewhere in the pipeline, either in the application or in the review period.”

Fire sprinkler saves apartment building in SW Bend

02/18/24 

Bend, OR - At 10:16 PM on the night of February 17th, Bend Fire and Rescue responded to a reported fire on a first-floor patio at the Stillwater Crossing apartment complex. 2 Engines, a medic unit, a ladder truck and 1 command vehicle responded. The first arriving engine found a smoldering fire that had been extinguished by a single activated fire sprinkler. The crews assured the fire was completely out and shut down the system. All residents were able to return to their apartments. An investigation determined the cause was likely improper disposal of cigarette smoking material. Damage was limited to $2000 of contents and minor damage to the structure. The sprinkler system prevented significant loss to the structure and displacement of multiple occupants.

 National data show that the presence of fire sprinklers in residences drastically reduce the fire damage and potential for loss of life. 

Crash Closes U.S. Highway 26 Near Warm Springs

A serious crash shut down both directions of U.S. Highway 26 near Warm Springs late Saturday afternoon due to slick, snowy, and icy roads. The closure, reported around 4 p.m., lasted several hours before reopening. Multiple crashes occurred across Central Oregon, including a rollover on Highway 97 and incidents in Bend. Deschutes County sheriff's deputies responded to 10 weather-related crashes. The National Weather Service extended its winter weather advisory, warning of mixed precipitation and slippery road conditions until Sunday morning.

 Bend Man Arrested Twice in a Week for Theft and Identity Fraud

Date: February 16th, 2024

Reported by: CODE Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp

The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE) made headlines again on February 16th, 2024, with the arrest of Wyatt James Froome, aged 30, hailing from Bend. This marked the second time within the same week that Froome found himself in CODE's custody.

Earlier this week, CODE Detectives apprehended Froome during an alleged drug sale. In a surprising turn of events, detectives discovered $750 worth of Lego toy sets, reportedly pilfered from the Bend Target store on the same day, in his possession. Froome was accompanied by an accomplice during this incident.

Continuing their vigilant efforts, CODE Detectives uncovered further suspicious activity involving Froome. Monitoring public social media marketplaces for criminal activity, they observed Froome advertising hundreds of dollars' worth of new Lego sets at significantly reduced prices. Seizing the opportunity, detectives engaged with Froome online, negotiating a purchase of the advertised Lego sets.

A rendezvous was arranged at the Bend Outlet Mall to complete the transaction. However, instead of a legitimate sale, uniformed Bend Police Officers intercepted Froome upon his arrival at the meeting point. He was found in possession of the stolen property he had agreed to sell to the undercover detective.

Investigations revealed a troubling pattern in Froome's modus operandi. He allegedly engaged in "pre-selling" Lego sets on social media platforms, subsequently fulfilling orders by stealing identical sets from local retailers upon receiving inquiries from potential buyers.

In the course of these investigations, CODE Detectives attributed four additional thefts in the Bend area to Froome, amounting to over $3,000 worth of stolen goods. Security officers from area retail stores emphasized the allure of Legos to thieves, citing their popularity and resale value in illicit markets. Legos, lacking serial numbers, are difficult to trace and are swiftly offloaded on the black market or unsuspecting buyers via social media platforms.

Wyatt Froome now finds himself confined to Deschutes County Sheriff’s Jail, facing an array of serious charges including Theft I (four counts), Theft II (three counts), Aggravated Identity Theft, and Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card.

Stolen Backhoe's 250-Mile Journey: From Bend, Oregon to Mattawa, Washington

A stolen backhoe recovered by Grant County Sheriff’s Deputies earlier this week may have made the 250 mile trip from Bend, Oregon to Mattawa, Washington while under its own power.

A Deputy on Sunday working the county’s south end noticed the 2020 John Deere 410L on property in the 30000 block of State Route 243 South near Mattawa. The Deputy questioned the property owner about the backhoe, which was visibly out of place compared to other materials and vehicles on the property. The backhoe also had two broken windows.

Through investigation, the Deputy learned the backhoe was stolen on February 9 from a construction site near Bend, Oregon. The backhoe’s owner was able to review GPS tracking of the equipment which showed the GPS pings traveling at around 25 miles per hour – about top speed for the backhoe – from where it was stolen near Bend to where it was discovered near Mattawa. Since the owner of the property does not have access to anything that would tow the 30,000-pound backhoe, one of the few conclusions is that it was driven on roadways for the entire 250-mile trip. The math makes that 10-hours of travel.

The property owner did not provide any verifiable explanation as to how the backhoe got there.

The backhoe, valued at $160,000, was picked up by its legal owner and Deputies continue to investigate.

Redmond Council Proposes Charter Changes: Term Limits and Anti-Nepotism on May Ballot

Redmond, OR - Redmond's city council decided on Feb. 13 to let voters choose three charter amendments on the May 21 ballot. The amendments include introducing term limits for councilors, extending the mayor's term to four years with a two-term limit, and possibly banning family members from serving together. The council unanimously agreed to split the amendments into two separate ballot items. Additionally, the city council approved the purchase of a house for $380,000 to expand a roundabout.

Southern California Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison

2/15/2024

EUGENE, Ore.—A Southern California drug trafficker convicted at trial for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday, announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Pedro Keny Verganza, 39, of Los Angeles County, California, was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in December 2019, investigators with the Albany Police Department obtained information that an individual known as “Pelucha” was a source of supply for illegal narcotics transported by a California-based drug trafficking organization from California to Oregon for redistribution and sale. Further investigation revealed that, in mid-February 2020, a courier working with or on behalf of Pelucha was expected to arrive at a fast-food restaurant in Albany, Oregon to complete a sale of methamphetamine and heroin.

On February 15, 2020, law enforcement officers observed the courier, later determined to be Verganza, arrive at the fast-food restaurant with another individual. Law enforcement searched the pair’s vehicle and located a cardboard box containing three large heat-sealed and shrink-wrapped packages containing approximately three and a quarter pounds of methamphetamine and two and a quarter pounds of heroin. Subsequent lab tests revealed Verganza’s fingerprints and palm prints inside the box and on the packages of narcotics.

On February 16, 2020, Verganza was charged by federal criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and, on August 19, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene indicted Verganza on the same charge. Later, a charge of possessing with intent to distribute heroin was added by superseding indictment. On October 13, 2023, Verganza was found guilty at trial on both charges.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with assistance from the Albany Police Department and Linn County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Adam E. Delph and John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

What’s Up Central Oregon

Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival, taking place Friday, February 23rd through Sunday February 25th, 2024

Tickets are now on sale for the fifth annual Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival, taking place Friday, February 23rd through Sunday February 25th, 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.

Each day of the festival from 12pm-5pm, the 6 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.

Monday February 19th

Mallard Nesting Tube Refresh w/Bend FFA & Boy Scouts Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe 11AM-2:30PM 

Beertown Comedy Open Mic Silver Moon Brewing 6:30PM-9:30PM

Monday Bingo Kobold Brewing The Lair 1043 NW Bond St Bend 7PM 

Kids Ninja Warrior Classes 2024 (Mondays) Free Spirit Your Ninja Play 3:15PM-4:15PM

Tuesday February 20th

Freen Tire Giveaway @ Mt Bachelor 9AM 

Vieux Farka Toure Volcanic Theatre Pub 7:00PM

Brian Regan By Tower Theatre Foundation 7:30PM-9:30PM

COBKA: The Queens’ Gambit - A Strategic Approach to Small-Scale Queen Rearing @ The Environmental Center 16 NW Kansas Ave Bend 5:30PM 

February Lunch & Learn: How to Help Your Houseplants Thrive @ Larkspur Community Center 1600 SE Reed Market Rd Bend 12noon-1:30PM 

Tuesday Morning Knit & Craft Market of Choice Bend 10AM-12PM

Women Tasting Flights @ Flights of Wine Bend 5:30PM

St. Charles Health Systems Lunch & Learn La Pine Activity Center 11AM-12PM

Wednesday February 21st

About Leadbetter and Moore @ McMenamins 6:00PM-8:00PM

Blake Lowrey-Evans @ Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 6:00PM-8:00PM

Deschutes Land Trust Nature Nights @ Tower Theatre 7:00PM-8:30PM 

Thursday February 22nd

Page to Screen Trivia Roundabout Books 900 NW Mt. Washington Drive #110 Bend 6:30PM

Wolf Song: The Role of Wolf Species in Plateau Spirituality @ High Desert Museum 6PM-7PM

Full Moon Nordic Nights @ Mt Bachelor 4:00PM-8:00PM

Pint Night for the Arts @ Wild Ride Brewing Prineville 5:00PM-8:00PM

Friday February 23rd

Red Chair Roundup @ Mt Bachelor 8:00AM-3:00PM

Suttle Lodge Winter Beer Festival  23rd,24th,25th 

Bit(e) of Robotics for @ Deschutes Public Library By Camp Fire Central Oregon 3:15-5:15PM

The Lip Sync Smackdown@Open Space Studios 7:00PM-9:00PM

DENM And Little Stranger Silver Moon Brewing 9:00PM

Saturday February 24th

Intro to Trackdays/OMRRA Meet & Greet @ Boneyard Pub 5:00PM

80’s Dance Party @ Bevel Craft Brewing 6:00PM-9:00PM 

Virginia Riggs Children’s Concert & Instrument Petting Zoo @ Bend Senior High School 9:00AM

Winter Formal @ River’s Place 5:00PM-8PM 

Sunday February 25th

Mimosa Fest - Live, Laugh, Mimosa Volcanic Theatre Pub 11AM-3PM

Barrel Brawl 2024 Whiskey Cocktail Competition @ 10 Barrel Brewing East Side 1PM  

Winter Concert by Central Oregon Symphony @ Bend High Auditorium 2:00PM

DC4W Pine Mountain Run By Deshcutes County 4 Wheelers Club 8:30AM-4:00PM

Central Oregon Community College Community Education

Deschutes Public Library Events

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

Click here to let us know about your upcoming Event!

Sponsored By

Embracing the Light: The Transformative Power of Laser Therapy

In recent years, the medical community has witnessed the emergence of laser therapy as a revolutionary treatment modality, offering a beacon of hope for individuals seeking relief from various ailments. This innovative approach, particularly low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has garnered acclaim for its myriad health benefits, ranging from pain alleviation to enhanced tissue repair. As we explore the transformative power of laser therapy, it's crucial to understand how this cutting-edge technology is reshaping the landscape of therapeutic treatments.

A Ray of Relief: Pain Alleviation and Inflammation Reduction

One of the most celebrated benefits of laser therapy is its ability to mitigate pain and reduce inflammation. By partially blocking pain signals to the brain, decreasing nerve sensitivity, and stimulating the production of natural painkillers such as endorphins and opioids, LLLT offers a non-invasive solution to chronic and acute pain management. Furthermore, its role in dilating blood vessels and activating the lymphatic drainage system underscores its efficacy in addressing the root causes of inflammation, providing a sigh of relief to those burdened by swelling and discomfort.

The Healing Glow: Accelerating Recovery

Laser therapy shines not only in pain management but also in fostering the body's natural healing processes. By penetrating deep into tissues, it accelerates cell growth, enhances vascular activity, and increases metabolic activity, thereby speeding up recovery from injuries and surgeries. The stimulation of fibroblast development and the reduction of scar tissue formation highlight LLLT's ability to improve tissue repair and minimize the aesthetic and functional impact of scars.

A Versatile Beam: Broad Applications

The scope of laser therapy extends beyond pain and inflammation, touching various aspects of health and wellness. From aiding in detoxification and weight management to rejuvenating the skin and accelerating wound healing, its applications are as diverse as they are significant. Additionally, its utility in musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and tendonitis, and conditions like lymphedema post-cancer surgery, showcases its versatility as a complementary treatment alongside conventional therapies.

Safety and Accessibility: A Light of Hope

As laser therapy becomes more accessible, its adoption in clinical settings continues to rise, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional treatments. Its compatibility with other therapies, including chemotherapy and physical therapy, enhances its effectiveness, providing a holistic approach to health care. However, it's essential to consult healthcare professionals to determine the appropriateness of laser therapy for individual health conditions, especially in cases involving cancerous lesions or pregnancy.

Conclusion

Laser therapy, with its profound health benefits, stands at the forefront of medical innovation, offering a promising solution for those seeking effective, non-invasive treatment options. As we continue to explore its potential, the light of laser therapy illuminates the path toward enhanced health and wellbeing, marking a significant leap forward in the pursuit of holistic healing. Let us embrace this light, empowering our community with knowledge and access to a therapy that holds the promise of a pain-free, healthier future.

Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

I personally use a hand-held cold laser device for targeted pain, usually in my shoulder. I originally got it for my dog who was aging with arthritis years ago. I’ve had good results with it, it does need to be used regularly for results. I did a bit of research on hand-held cold laser therapy devices (the one I purchased is no longer available) and found this particular one to be promising:

What is the origin of the name "Bend," Oregon?

A) It was named after a prominent figure named Benjamin Bend.

B) The name comes from "Farewell Bend," a reference to a significant bend in the Deschutes River where the town developed.

C) It was named for a type of tree found abundantly in the area.

D) The name was chosen randomly by the town's founders.

Correct Answer: B) The name comes from "Farewell Bend," a reference to a significant bend in the Deschutes River where the town developed.

Bend, Oregon, received its name from "Farewell Bend," a term used by early pioneers to refer to a location along the Deschutes River where the town eventually developed. This name was a reference to the bend in the river, a significant landmark for travelers and settlers in the area. The U.S. Postal Service later shortened the name to "Bend" when the city's post office was established, seeking a more concise name for the growing community. This change effectively captured the geographical feature that had initially drawn attention to the area and helped to establish its identity as a distinct location in Central Oregon. Bend has since grown into a popular city known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene.

Follow us on facebook