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  • 🤝 Local Cause Spotlight: The Transformative Power of Equine-Assisted Therapy at Healing Reins

🤝 Local Cause Spotlight: The Transformative Power of Equine-Assisted Therapy at Healing Reins

Issue #093

12 Mar

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?

🚨 JCSO Investigating Fatal Plane Crash SE Of Madras

👩‍⚕️ 🏠Shepherd's House Brings On Nurse

🏛 Two bills that impact Central Oregonians with disabilities in a positive way await governor's signature

🔥 💲 Oregon State Fire Marshal launches incentive program for defensible space projects

🤝 Local Cause Spotlight: The Transformative Power of Equine-Assisted Therapy at Healing Reins

📰 Community News

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

 

In Oregon, several entities are named after John Day, including the John Day River, the city of John Day, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and the John Day Dam.

What profession was John Day primarily known for before joining the Pacific Fur Company's overland expedition to Astoria?

A) Miner

B) Hunter

C) Blacksmith

D) Sailor

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

JCSO Investigating Fatal Plane Crash SE Of Madras

MADRAS, OR -- The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office says no one survived a Sunday evening plane. Frontier Regional 911 received a report of the crash at 7:40 p.m. in a remote area about five miles southeast of Madras. Deputies and medics responded and discovered the crash scene with the help of the power company. Due to the extent of the crash, there were no survivors.

Investigators say the plane departed Aurora, OR and was en route to Idaho. The names of those on board have not yet been released.

The Sheriff's Office expects a lengthy investigation with the NTSB and FAA. 

UPDATE (3/11/24 11:45 a.m. Monday): The NTSB confirms the plan was a Piper PA-32. No other information has been released. 

 

Shepherd's House Brings On Nurse

BEND, OR -- Shepherd's House now has a Residential Nurse working at its shelters.

Amber Knapp has been stationed at the Franklin Avenue facility since January 31, and says she hit the ground running, “It's been kind of a whirlwind so far. And then we're also working with the state to increase our harm reduction program here. We're trying to get Narcan, wound supplies, and hygiene supplies. We've just seen an increase in overdoses. So, we're trying to make sure people have Narcan on hand in case that happens.” Knapp tells KBND News one of her main tasks is coordinating medical care, “You know, I have a hard enough time myself with doctor’s appointments and I don't have barriers. Our patients have a lot of barriers and getting their medical appointments organized, can be a lot, and that can be a lot to remember.”

The Bend native felt compelled to help her hometown after getting her nursing degree. “I worked at the county for three years and I did work a lot with our unhoused population. We'd go out to camps and see patients and I just really enjoyed it and felt like they were just really underserved in our community. There seems to be a big stigma against our unhoused population. And so, I just have a heart for it,” she says.

Funding for the nursing position comes from a two-year grant provided by Pacific Source Community Solutions, and a match from the Central Oregon Health Council.

Shepherd’s House Ministries operates shelters in Bend and Redmond.

Two bills that impact Central Oregonians with disabilities in a positive way await governor's signature - KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) --  Among the 30 bills passed in the recently wrapped legislative session - two positively impact health concerns for people with disabilities, advocates said Monday.  "Really grateful for the Legislature for being able to take on these issues in a short session. and this is, these are major wins for patients," Disability Rights Oregon Public

ktvz.com/news/central-oregon/2024/03/11/two-bills-that-impact-central-oregonians-with-disabilities-in-a-positive-way-await-governors-signature

Oregon State Fire Marshal launches incentive program for defensible space projects

 SALEM, Ore. – To help those living in communities more likely to be impacted by a wildfire, the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is launching an incentive program to help Oregonians pay for defensible space projects. Defensible space is one of the most effective ways to better protect a home during a wildfire. The OSFM understands that money may be a barrier for some to do these projects.

As part of the program, those who meet eligibility requirements will receive a $250 one-time payment. Homeowners, renters, and property owners must live in select areas of the state and request and receive a free defensible space assessment.

The free assessments are given by a local fire service agency member or an OSFM representative. An expert will walk the participants’ property with them and provide valuable one-on-one time to discuss how to build and increase their fire resiliency. 

After the assessment, those who qualify will receive the payment in the mail for their participation. This incentive is designed to encourage people to implement the recommendations received during their assessment.

For a list of eligible communities, please read the program guidelines here. These communities were chosen based on their vulnerability to wildfire to get money to those who need it the most.

The OSFM’s defensible space program is a crucial step toward building more resilient communities in the face of increasing wildfire risks. By empowering Oregonians to take proactive measures, we will reduce the impact of wildfires on lives, property, and the environment.

For more details about the OSFM’s defensible space program, visit their website.

Weekly Road & Traffic Report Week of March 2nd - March 8th Redmond

Weekly Road Construction Update Week of March 10th to March 16th Deschutes County

 

The Transformative Power of Equine-Assisted Therapy at Healing Reins

 

 Healing Reins Therapeutic Riding Center, based in Bend, Oregon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive disabilities through equine-assisted activities and therapies. Founded in 1999, Healing Reins has been a beacon of hope and healing for countless individuals in the Central Oregon community. Their mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can experience the physical and emotional benefits of working with horses.

One of the key programs offered by Healing Reins is therapeutic horseback riding. This program pairs individuals with trained instructors and therapy horses to engage in horseback riding activities that help improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. For many participants, this experience goes beyond just physical benefits; it also fosters emotional growth, confidence, and a sense of independence. The bond that forms between the rider and the horse can be transformative, providing a unique form of therapy that traditional methods may not offer.

In addition to therapeutic riding, Healing Reins offers a variety of other programs designed to meet the diverse needs of their participants. Equine-assisted learning activities provide opportunities for personal growth and skill development in areas such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. These activities can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with social skills or self-esteem issues. The center also offers mental health counseling services in partnership with licensed therapists who incorporate equine-assisted therapies into their practice. This holistic approach recognizes the profound impact that interactions with horses can have on mental health and well-being.

Healing Reins is committed to serving individuals of all ages and abilities, including children, veterans, and seniors. Their inclusive approach ensures that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from their programs, regardless of financial constraints. Through scholarships and financial assistance programs, Healing Reins strives to make their services accessible to all members of the community who could benefit from equine-assisted therapy. This dedication to inclusivity reflects their belief that everyone deserves the chance to experience the healing power of horses.

The impact of Healing Reins extends far beyond their participants; it also positively influences the community at large. By promoting awareness of the benefits of equine-assisted therapy, they are helping to break down stigmas surrounding disabilities and mental health issues. Through partnerships with local schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations, Healing Reins is able to reach a wider audience and advocate for the importance of integrating animal-assisted therapies into mainstream healthcare practices.

Healing Reins relies heavily on the support of volunteers who generously donate their time and expertise to help run their programs smoothly. Volunteers play a crucial role in assisting with horse care, lesson preparation, and participant support. For many volunteers, the experience of working with Healing Reins is deeply rewarding as they witness firsthand the positive impact their efforts have on the lives of individuals in need. The sense of community and camaraderie among volunteers creates a supportive environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully to the mission of Healing Reins.

As a non-profit organization, Healing Reins depends on fundraising efforts and donations to sustain their programs and services. Their annual fundraisers, such as the "Hooves & Hats Gala" and "Run to Ride 5K," bring together supporters from the community to raise awareness and funds for their cause. In addition to monetary donations, Healing Reins welcomes in-kind donations such as horse care supplies, equipment, and feed. These contributions are essential in ensuring that Healing Reins can continue to provide high-quality care for their therapy horses and maintain a safe environment for participants.

The success of Healing Reins would not be possible without the dedication and expertise of their staff members who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of both participants and therapy horses. Their team includes certified instructors, therapists, barn managers, and administrative staff who all play a vital role in keeping operations running smoothly. The passion and commitment they bring to their work is evident in the positive outcomes achieved by participants who engage in Healing Reins' programs.

Looking ahead, Healing Reins continues to expand their reach and impact by forging new partnerships within the community and exploring innovative approaches to equine-assisted therapy. With a focus on research-driven practices and evidence-based interventions, they strive to stay at the forefront of equine-assisted therapies and provide cutting-edge services to those in need. By continually evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs of their participants, Healing Reins remains a trusted resource for individuals seeking healing and support through interaction with horses.

Find Brandywine Fisheries at Central Oregon Locavore this Friday from 11am - 6pm! Cut-off time for pre-ordering is 3pm sharp on Thursday, 3/14/2024. Feel free to call them at 541-505-9686 to see what is available and to place an order!

Year 10 of our F*Cancer program! In addition to hundreds of names submitted by donors and supporters of the program, the labels will include the names of some favorite celebrities and public figures we've lost recently. Jimmy Buffet, Suzanne Somers, Toby Keith, Andy Rourke, Paul Reubens.... all will be honored on the cans this year.

Any others in the public eye you'd like to see us add, let's get some fighters and survivors on there!

 

 

 

Upcoming Events

What’s Up Central Oregon

March Madness

March Madness is an annual fundraiser for Stroke Awareness Oregon. It's also great fun for college basketball fans and there are prizes. Proceeds support our work educating about the causes and prevention of stroke and supporting stroke survivors and their families in their best possible life. Stroke is a brain attack and affects anyone of any age, race or social standing. It is the 4th leading cause of death in Oregon. One in 5 people will suffer a stroke.

Welcome to Stroke Awareness Oregon's March Madness Fundraiser!

Register by March 17th!

$10 Suggested Donation

$30 Total For Second Entry

Once your donation is complete, you will receive an email with further directions and the bracket link. 

Tuesday March 12th

The Thing @ Volcanic Theatre Pub 7:00PM - 11:30PM

Trivia Night @  Mountain Burger 7:30PM - 9:30PM

Tequila & TacoTuesday @ Bar Rio 3:00PM - 10:00PM

Wednesday March 13th

Matt Walden  @ McMenamins Old St. Francis School Father Luke’s Room 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Thursday March 14th

Trio  @ Beach Hut Deli 5:00PM - 7:00PM

Friday March 15th

St. Patrick’s Day Weekend @  Boneyard Pub Bend Fire Pipes & Drums & Yeates Academy of Irish Dance

Saturday March 16th

Ski For All @  Mount Bachelor 8:00PM - 8:00PM

Bend Fire Pipes & Drums St Paddy’s Day 2024 Pub Crawl @Downtown Bend Sat & Sun 4:00PM - 9:30PM

 

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.

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

Please visit this Week’s Sponsors & Partners ⬇️

 

What profession was John Day primarily known for before joining the Pacific Fur Company's overland expedition to Astoria?

A) Miner

B) Hunter

C) Blacksmith

D) Sailor

Answer: B) Hunter

John Day was an American hunter who ventured to Oregon in 1812, having been associated with various occupations including hunting, trapping, and farming before his journey.

John Day River, 2016. Courtesy Bureau of Land Management, photo by Bob Wick

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