In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

⭐ Deschutes Co. sheriff candidates Vander Kamp, Bailey set themselves apart at forum

📰 Forest Restoration Project Spurs Road Reconstruction and Homeless Encampment Removal

🔥💲$18.2 million in federal funds coming to Central Oregon projects to reduce forest fuels, threat of major wildfires

🏛️ Oregon joins feds in suing to block Kroger-Albertsons merger

🚨 Male Subject Arrested After K-9 Track Leads to Capture

⛑️Safe Sitter Essentials with CPR for Youth

🖼️ Art in the High Desert Returns to Bend

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

😻😻Meet our Adorable Adoptables - Pair of Handsome Older Kittens Looking for Their Forever Home! From Cascade Canine Rescue East & West (CCREW)

What is the highest peak in Central Oregon?

A) Mount Hood

B) South Sister

C) Mount Jefferson

D) Mount Bachelor

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

Wednesday

Patchy blowing snow in the morning. Rain and snow likely in the morning, then rain in the afternoon. Visibility one quarter mile or less at times in the morning. Snow level 5000 feet. Snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches. Breezy. Pass winds southwest 15 to 25 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph, increasing to 45 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent. Rainfall amounts a quarter of an inch to one inch.

Wednesday Night

Rain. Areas of blowing snow in the evening. Blowing snow after midnight. Snow after midnight. Snow may be heavy at times after midnight. Visibility one quarter mile or less at times. Snow level 4000 feet. Snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches. Breezy. Pass winds southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent. Rainfall amounts a half of an inch to one and a half inches.

Thursday

Rain showers in the morning. Snow showers. Snow may be heavy at times. Snow level 2000 feet. Windy. Pass winds southwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, increasing to 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent.

Thursday Night

Snow showers. Windy. Pass winds southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Chance of snow near 100 percent.

Friday

Snow showers. Chance of snow near 100 percent.

Friday Night

Snow showers likely. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Saturday

Snow showers. Chance of snow 90 percent.

Saturday Night

Snow showers likely. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Sunday

Snow showers. Chance of snow 90 percent.

Sunday Night

Mostly cloudy with snow showers likely. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Monday

Snow showers likely. Snow level 1500 feet. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Monday Night

Snow showers likely. Snow level 2500 feet. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Tuesday

Snow showers. Snow level 2500 feet. Chance of snow 80 percent.

Deschutes Co. sheriff candidates Vander Kamp, Bailey set themselves apart at forum

Steele Haugen, Reporter Central Oregon Daily

The two candidates running for Deschutes County Sheriff -- Capt. William Bailey and Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp, attended a community forum in Sunriver Monday night.

"I've been with the sheriff's office nearly 24 years now, first serving as a reserve deputy, volunteering my time, and then 22 years, almost 22 years full-time service, working for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office," said Bailey.

"I started at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office 20 years ago as a volunteer for a search and rescue team," Vander Kamp. "Really started as a pilot and a paramedic. Grew within the organization to a reserve deputy sheriff. Volunteered several hundred hours a year there."

Bailey and Vander Kamp hope to set themselves apart from one another as well as the many controversies that have plagued current Sheriff Shane Nelson.

Both shared their passion for addressing the county's big issues: a challenging budget, unending homelessness and a drug crisis.

The current culture under Nelson separated the two more than any other issue.

"Culture in the Sheriff's office is my first priority out of everything right now," said Vander Kamp. "In recent times, our office has been frustrated with events. You know, we've had some negative headlines, some horrible court cases and we've paid out millions of dollars just wasting taxpayers' money because of bad H.R. decisions, and that also needs to stop."

"I talk to the people within the office and I ask them how things are going. They assure me things are great," Bailey said. "Don't listen to anyone that's saying negative things because it's not true. It's not the reality of the situation. It's, unfortunately, just a political talking point."

The two candidates with different backgrounds have different reasons for running for sheriff.

"This is for the first time in a long time that the county can finally choose a sheriff that isn't an incumbent and also comes with a diverse background," said Vander Kamp.

"Nelson decided to retire. Someone had to step up and continue to lead the office in the great direction it's going," said Bailey, who has received Nelson's endorsement.

The primary is set for May 21, but that only happens if a third candidate enters the race. If no one else steps forward, this race goes straight to the November general election.

 Forest Restoration Project Spurs Road Reconstruction and Homeless Encampment Removal

Bend, Oregon - As part of a comprehensive forest restoration initiative, the US Forest Service is set to repave and rebuild approximately three miles of China Hat Road south of Bend this summer. The roadwork is a pivotal component of the larger Cabin Butte Vegetation Management Project, encompassing nearly 26,000 acres on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District.

Forest Service Public Affairs Officer Kaitlyn Webb emphasized the necessity of road reconstruction to facilitate timber hauling and prescribed fire operations essential for forest management. China Hat Road, also known as Forest Service Road 18, serves as a primary access route for resources management and recreation activities in the area.

The decision to revamp China Hat Road comes amid growing concerns regarding homeless encampments along the route. Reports of crimes, vehicle fires, and other safety issues have prompted local residents to demand action from authorities. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Forest Service acknowledges the need to address these challenges in collaboration with city, county, and state partners.

While specific details are still being finalized, Webb assured that efforts are underway to mitigate the impact on homeless individuals affected by the road reconstruction. Early communication with adjacent communities has been initiated to provide advance notice and foster transparency regarding the upcoming project.

The overarching goal of the Cabin Butte Vegetation Management Project remains forest restoration to historical conditions, enhancing landscape resilience, and reducing hazardous fuels to bolster public and firefighter safety. As preparations for roadwork progress, stakeholders remain committed to addressing both environmental and social concerns to ensure the long-term well-being of the community and the forest ecosystem.

$18.2 million in federal funds coming to Central Oregon projects to reduce forest fuels, threat of major wildfires

Central Oregon national forests will spend $18.2 million to prevent wildfires and promote forest health, part of a larger $2.4 billion plan by the Biden administration. Funds will support prescribed burns and other measures to reduce wildfire risks. Concerns about smoke from burns are acknowledged, but officials argue it's safer than uncontrolled wildfires. Efforts include thinning forests and removing invasive species. Similar funding is allocated to other regions to mitigate wildfire risks. The strategy aims to mimic natural forest processes and protect communities from increasingly severe wildfires exacerbated by climate change.

Central Oregon Focal Landscape US Forest Service

Oregon joins feds in suing to block Kroger-Albertsons merger’; AG Rosenblum explains why; Wyden cheers move

 PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum joined the Federal Trade Commission and a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from across the nation on Monday in suing to block the proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger. 

Oregon, the FTC and the other AGs filed to enjoin the merger in U.S. District Court in Portland. This followed a vote by FTC commissioners Monday morning. They said it is the result of thorough investigations by the FTC and the states into the proposed merger’s anticipated effects.

“We are doing this to protect Oregon consumers and workers,” said AG Rosenblum. “We believe this proposed merger would hurt both, and we’re doing our part to prevent it from going forward.” 

Kroger and Albertsons are the nation’s two largest grocery chains. In Oregon, the two corporations operate 176 stores, serving nearly every community in the state. Kroger operates 51 Fred Meyer and 4 QFC stores, while Albertsons operates 96 Safeway and 25 Albertsons stores. 

Monday’s lawsuit seeks to block the proposed Albertsons-Kroger merger. The FTC, Oregon and the other states participating in this legal action allege the proposed merger would violate the federal Clayton Act. That act prohibits acquisitions which may substantially lessen competition. 

“If big grocery stores are allowed to reduce competition this way,” said Rosenblum, “they can charge higher prices for food for no good reason and reduce services, including in their pharmacies. They can also slow the growth of employees’ wages, or even reduce some of those wages. Working conditions and employee benefits can suffer, as well. In short, there’s no good for consumers or workers in this proposed merger — and lots of bad.”  Oregon Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission investigators say they found compelling evidence that direct, head-to-head competition between Kroger and Albertsons has forced the two chains to compete vigorously against one another — both on price and on the quality of goods and services offered at their stores. This competition has also benefitted workers, by producing higher wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions.

“This supermarket mega-merger comes as American consumers have seen the cost of groceries rise steadily over the past few years. Kroger’s acquisition of Albertsons would lead to additional grocery price hikes for everyday goods, further exacerbating the financial strain consumers across the country face today,” said Henry Liu, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition.

Joining Oregon and the FTC in the lawsuit are Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming. Colorado and Washington have already filed lawsuits to stop the merger in their respective state courts.

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., released the following statement today after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced it sued to block the proposed merger of Kroger Company and Albertsons Companies, Inc.:

“I called for the FTC to block this merger because it would raise grocery and prescription costs for Oregonians across our state, and it’s clear the FTC agrees. Another strike against this merger is the toll it would take on our veterans and servicemembers who will be forced to drive further to get the care they need with fewer pharmacies accepting TRICARE. The merger would also reduce the power of Oregon’s small farmers, growers and other small businesses to negotiate prices for their goods. I fully support FTC’s decision to take a closer look at this proposed merger -- it is a smart call by President Biden to prioritize lowering prices for Americans and Oregonians, protecting access to prescription drugs, and maintaining the power of unions.”

Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of February 26 - March 3 Bend

Weekly Road Construction Update Week of February 25 to March 2 Deschutes County

Male Subject Arrested After K-9 Track Leads to Capture

Date: February 27, 2024

Location: China Hat Road, mile post 2

On the evening of February 26, 2024, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) deputies found themselves engaged in a pursuit with a suspect, later identified as Jonathan Hurlbut, 35, of Bend, Oregon. The pursuit, which unfolded near mile post 2 on China Hat Road, culminated in Hurlbut's arrest on multiple charges, including fleeing from law enforcement and theft.

The sequence of events began at approximately 9:20 pm when deputies attempted to approach a white Toyota 4Runner that had hastily veered off China Hat Road into the Deschutes National Forest. However, instead of complying with law enforcement, the driver, later identified as Hurlbut, abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into the forest.

With swift coordination, law enforcement officers, including K-9 units from both Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Bend Police Department, initiated a search operation. K-9 Vinnie, accompanied by DCSO deputies, began tracking Hurlbut through the dense woodland, while Bend Police Department deployed K-9 Buck and a drone operator to assist in the pursuit.

Following a tense search that led the officers southbound through the forest, K-9 Buck signaled a discovery near a trailer located at a campsite off China Hat Road, close to mile post 3. Encircling the area, law enforcement officers made verbal contact with Hurlbut at around 11:10 pm, and he surrendered without resistance.

Hurlbut was subsequently taken into custody and transported to the Deschutes County Adult Jail. He faces charges under ORS 811.540 for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, ORS 164.045 for theft in the second degree, and a warrant for failing to appear on the original charge of theft in the second degree.

The successful conclusion of the operation was a result of the collaborative efforts between Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Bend Police Department. Authorities expressed gratitude for the effective coordination and swift apprehension of the suspect.

Safe Sitter Essentials with CPR for Youth

This Safe Sitter program prepares students to be safe when they are home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. Students learn first aid, choking infant/child rescue, and infant/child CPR. This is an interactive in-person class with games, videos, demonstrations, and hands-on practice. Safe Sitter graduates are prepared to prevent unsafe situations and know how to react when faced with dangers such as power failures or weather emergencies. This class also includes life and business skills. Parents should arrive 15 minutes before the end of the class for a graduation ceremony. All supplies provided. For 6th-9th grade students. *The course teaches CPR but does not certify students in CPR. 

Saturday, March 2
9am-3:30pm
COCC Bend Campus; $139

Saturday, April 6
9am-3:30pm
COCC Bend Campus; $139

Saturday, May 18
9am-3:30pm
COCC Bend Campus; $139

Saturday, June 15
9am-3:30pm
COCC Bend Campus; $139

cocc.edu

Art in the High Desert Returns to Bend

Art in the High Desert, Central Oregon’s top art show, returns to Bend's Riverbend Park this August, featuring over 150 artists in various mediums. Co-founders Dave and Carla Fox aim to maintain the show's artist-centric approach, emphasizing quality and artist well-being. Unlike previous editions, this year's event will be outdoors, offering picturesque views of the Deschutes River. No commission is charged on artists' sales, keeping costs low. The show, directed by David Bjurstrom, prioritizes artist engagement, with no large production company exhibitors allowed. The Benchmark Award recognizes exceptional presentation, professionalism, and community engagement. Mark your calendars for August 23-25 for this artist-focused event.

What’s Up Central Oregon

PUP CRAWL 2024 in March!

Enjoy local pubs around Bend and support HSCO's programs and services that serve people and animals in our community. Visit 14 local brew pubs with your friends and canine companion(s) and enjoy good vibes throughout March on the weekends.

HSCO’s Pup Crawl includes a logo pint glass and beverage of choice. 100% of the money raised each night benefits the animals thanks to our sponsors Bend Studio, Bend Pet Express and host brew pubs. Purchase during any Pup Crawl night.

• Logo Pint Glass & One Beverage $15

• Logo Glass & 1 Beverage at 3 different Pup Crawl Nights $30

• Logo Beanie hat $20

Enjoy the evening drinking and eating amongst friends, and meet HSCO staff to learn more about what we do and how you can help the animals in our community.

Join us at any or all of the nights. 4:30 to 7:00 pm each night!

Wednesday February 28th

Know Puzzles: Glass Fusing Workshop Live Laugh Love Art Sunriver 12:00PM - 1:30PM

3ofWe Live In Father Luke's Room McMenanmins 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Long Gone Wilder Trio Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 6:00PM - 8:00PM

The Roundabouts Improv - A Comedy Show! Open Space Event Studios 7:30PM - 9:00PM

Thursday February 29th (Leap Year)

$2.29 Leap Day Cones Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream 12:00PM - 9:30PM

Crafting Class And Coffee, Wine Bottle Decoupage Illuminaries Kavista Coffee 12:45PM - 3:45PM

"Leap Day Beer Tasting With Immersion Brewing" Playful Paws Cat Cafe 5:00PM - 7:00PM

So Much Closer River’s Place 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Backcountry Film Festival Presented By Discover Your Forest Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Friday March 1st

Tommy Castro And The Painkillers The Belfry Sisters 7:00PM

First Friday At The Distillery - M Theme Oregon Spirit Distillers 5:00PM - 8:00PM

Redmond First Friday Art Walk Downtown Redmond 4:00PM - 7:00PM

Saturday March 2nd

Lightweight Nunofelt Scarf Workshop Pine Meadow Ranch Center 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Wetlands Walk Prineville 9:45AM - 12:00PM

Challenge of Champions Tour Bullriding Crook County Fairgrounds 7:30PM - 9:30PM

Tommy Emmanuel, CGP w/Special Guests Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley Tower Theater 7:30PM 

Girl Scout Cookie & Beer Pairing Bend Brewing Co 11:00AM

Pint Night for Saving Grace by Bend Boarding Babes Spider City Brewing 6:00PM

Senior (HS) Saturday Cornhole Tournament and Vendor Market Blacksmith Public House 11:00PM - 3:00PM 

Sunday March 3rd

Trailblazing Women of Country Tower Theatre 7:30PM

Bill Powers River’s Place 5:00PM - 7:00PM

Central Oregon Community College Community Education

Deschutes Public Library Events

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🐱🐱 Meet our Adorable Adoptables - Pair of Handsome Older Kittens Looking for Their Forever Home! 🐱🐱 

Meet Diesel & Cubby

Are you ready to welcome not just one, but two furry friends into your life? These handsome guys are older kittens, each with their own unique purrsonalities, looking for a loving home where they can thrive together.

While they may not be siblings, these kitties have formed a special bond during their time in foster care and are best adopted as a pair. They find comfort and companionship in each other's company, making them the purrfect duo for anyone looking to double the love in their home.

Both of these sweet felines are a bit shy at first, but once they warm up to you, get ready for some serious snuggles and purr sessions. They thrive in a calm and quiet environment, so a home without young kids or rowdy dogs would be their ideal sanctuary.

If you're looking to add some feline charm to your life and have space in your heart for two adorable furballs, consider opening your home to these lovable kittens. Not only will you be giving them a second chance at a happy life, but you'll also be gaining twice the love and joy in return.

Reach out to our adoption team today to learn more about these delightful kitties and take the first step towards making them a purrmanent part of your family. Your new furry friends are waiting to meet you and create purrfect memories together!

Cascade Canine Rescue East & West

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What is the highest peak in Central Oregon?

A) Mount Hood

B) South Sister

C) Mount Jefferson

D) Mount Bachelor

Correct answer: B) South Sister

South Sister, also known as Charity, is the tallest peak in Central Oregon, standing at an elevation of 10,363 feet (3,159 meters). It is part of the Cascade Range and is located in the Deschutes National Forest. South Sister is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering stunning views of the surrounding area from its summit. It is also notable for its conical shape and prominence in the Central Oregon landscape.

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