In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

📰 Sunday, March 31 is the deadline to remove studded tires

📰 Pile burning conducted at Skull Hollow Campground after trailhead expansion, other improvements

📰McKenzie Pass Road Repaving Project Underway: Federal Grant Funding Supports Improvements

📰 Redmond receives state funding to prepare for wildfires

📰 New Stop Signs on O.B. Riley Road and Empire Avenue

📰 Crime News

Bend Police investigating burglary at Macy's

Redmond Police Seek Assistance is Identifying Theft Suspects

Parks and Rec Dept. Dealing With Increased Vandalism

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

Why did Laidlaw languish and eventually get renamed to Tumalo?

A) Lack of water delivery from the irrigation project

B) Failure to build the planned railroad junction

C) Economic struggles in finding a niche

D) All of the above

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

Sunday, March 31 is the deadline to remove studded tires

For more information, contact Kacey Davey, 541-280-2716.

SALEM - As spring arrives, it's time to remember studded tires must be removed by Sunday, March 31. Long-term weather forecasts this year do not support an extension of the studded tire season. 

"We encourage everyone to take off their studded tires before March 31, especially if you won't be driving in the mountains," advised Galen McGill, State Maintenance and Operations Engineer.

Driving with studded tires after the deadline can result in a fine. Law enforcement may issue a citation, a Class C traffic violation, with a $165 fine.

While studded tires are okay from November 1 to March 31, it's better to use other options like traction tires or chains. Studded tires cause about $8.5 million in damage to state highways each year, according to a 2014 study.

Our crews continue monitoring highways and weather forecasts, working to remove any late season snow or ice. Visit TripCheck.com for current conditions. After March 31, switch to traction tires or chains if needed, or consider postponing your travel until conditions improve. 

Pile burning conducted at Skull Hollow Campground after trailhead expansion, other improvements

PRINEVILLE, Or. Firefighters from the Ochoco National Forest ignited piles of woody debris at Skull Hollow Campground on the Crooked River National Grassland on Tuesday, officials said.

The piles of woody debris are leftover brush, limbs and small diameter juniper that were removed in the construction of the parking lot perimeter fence, trailhead expansion and associated improvements at Skull Hollow Campground northeast of Terrebonne, off of Lone Pine Road.

No road or trail closures took place, though forest users traveling along Highway 26 were advised they might see smoke, as could travelers on Highway 97 and nearby landowners. Prescribed fire signs were posted in the immediate area. Once firefighters ignite prescribed burns or piles, they monitor and patrol the units until they declare the burn out.

This prescribed burn occurred within the Central Oregon Landscape , one of 21 focal landscapes identified within the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

The removal of accumulations of hazardous fuels supports the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland’s commitment to addressing the Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which aims to reduce severity of wildfires, protect communities, and improve the health and resiliency of fire-dependent forests. Prescribed burns can protect homes and private property from tragic wildfires.

Fire management officials work with Oregon Department of Forestry smoke specialists to plan prescribed burns. Prescribed burns are conducted when weather is most likely to move smoke up and away from our communities.

Sometimes, weather patterns change, and some smoke will be present during prescribed burns. During prescribed burns, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight. All residents are encouraged to close windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. When driving in smoky areas, drivers should slow down and turn on headlights. If you have heart or lung disease, asthma, or other chronic conditions, ask your doctor about how to protect yourself from smoke.

For more information on prescribed burning in Central Oregon, visit www.centraloregonfire.org and follow on Twitter @CentralORFire.

 McKenzie Pass Road Repaving Project Underway: Federal Grant Funding Supports Improvements

As construction season gains momentum, attention is turning to the vital project of repaving Oregon Route 242, also known as McKenzie Pass. The project is made possible by funding from a Federal Lands Access Program grant, aimed at enhancing road infrastructure and safety.

The scope of the project encompasses repaving OR 242 from its junction with US 20 in Sisters to the summit at Dee Wright Observatory. This targeted improvement effort is crucial for low-traffic volume roads like McKenzie Pass, which require sustainable maintenance funding to prevent deterioration.

Construction crews have already begun the initial phases of the project, with work commencing in Sisters and progressively advancing westward along OR 242. Travelers can expect to see visible progress as the project unfolds.

In light of the road's closure during construction, authorities emphasize the importance of respecting closure notices. It's crucial for everyone's safety to adhere to these closures and avoid entering work zones. Crews will be operating heavy equipment within the closed area, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols.

The project team aims to complete all paving work before the earliest possible opening date for the pass, which typically occurs on the third Monday in June. However, schedules are subject to weather conditions, and updates can be found on the project's official website.

As travelers eagerly anticipate the improved road conditions, it's essential to prioritize safety and cooperation with the construction efforts. By following closure guidelines and staying informed through official channels, everyone can contribute to a smoother and safer travel experience along McKenzie Pass.

Redmond receives state funding to prepare for wildfires

The City of Redmond is getting money from the State of Oregon to help prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

This is the first time the city has gotten grant funding from the Oregon Community Trees non-profit.

They are using the funding to hold a work party in the Dry Canyon city park, that would remove trees hazardous to the area.

You can read the full release from the Oregon Department of Forestry below:

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is helping boost Oregon Arbor Month celebrations in six Oregon communities this year thanks to grants the non-profit organization is giving out this spring. Holding a public celebration of Arbor Day is a condition for maintaining Tree City USA status from the national Arbor Day Foundation. 

OCT Board member Morgan Holen coordinates the grant giving. She said Tree City USA communities receiving grants from OCT this year are:

Coburg

• Dallas

• Lake Oswego

• Pendleton

• Redmond

• Rogue River

“We’re happy to be funding Arbor Day events in every part of the state from the Willamette Valley to eastern and southern Oregon,” said Holen. “These events build awareness of the importance of trees to communities and engage residents in direct, memorable ways that build support for urban forests.”

Holen said grants range from $350 to $720. The smallest grant goes to buy commemorative T-shirts for Coburg elementary school tree planters. The largest goes to Lake Oswego to buy 12 Oregon white oak trees to be planted in the Woodmont Natural Area. The planting will help replace trees lost in the wake of the January 2024 wind and ice storm.

This is the first year the City of Dallas is receiving a grant. OCT is fully funding the City’s request to offer free to the public two, 2-hour sessions of “forest bathing” – stress-reduction led by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide in a forest setting in Delbert Hunter Arboretum.

Rogue River will use its grant to buy a Japanese snowbell tree, shovels, rakes, a reusable canopy and children’s art contest supplies and take‐home gifts for a tree-planting ceremony at the city arboretum in Palmerton Park. 

Pendleton is using its grant to purchase larger and more diverse species of trees seedling than ever to distribute at its annual Arbor Day tree seedling giveaway. The City estimates around 500 participants will attend their event. 

The City of Redmond is also receiving an OCT grant for the first time. Redmond will hold a fuels-reduction work party in the Dry Canyon City Park, and will use OCT funds to buy T-shirts with a juniper-themed educational design for Heart of Oregon volunteer youth during the event.

Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of March 25th - 31st Bend

Weekly Road Construction Update Week of March 24th - 29th Deschutes County

Bend Police investigating burglary at Macy's

At approximately 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26, Bend Police responded to a report of a burglary at Macy’s in the Bend River Promenade. 

An employee who received an alarm notification conducted a walk-through of the store and called Deschutes County 911 Dispatch to report the store appeared to have been burglarized. 

Officers found evidence of a forced entry on the east side of the building, with damage to the doors. Officers, including K9 Pluto and his handler, searched the building and found no one inside. 

In the store, police found 12 cash registers broken into with approximately $4,000 in cash removed. 

The investigation is ongoing. 

Redmond Police Seek Assistance is Identifying Theft Suspects

REDMOND, OR – The Redmond Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two suspects who are involved in multiple criminal cases in Redmond. The two suspects, one male and one female are believed to have committed theft related crimes at Wal Mart, Texaco, Wilco, and Rite Aid. The crimes occurred between March 17, 2024, and March 19, 2024.  The crimes have victimized local business as well as citizens shopping at these businesses.  

The suspects have been seen driving a red passenger car with a luggage rack on top. The Redmond Police Department would like to remind citizens to hide or secure valuables and double check the doors of the vehicle are locked when parked. 

Please contact the Redmond Police Department through Dispatch Non-Emergency at (541) 693-6911, if you have any information regarding these two individuals.   

Parks and Rec Dept. Dealing With Increased Vandalism

Posted by Mike Thomas KBND

BEND, OR -- A fire in the restroom at Miller’s Landing Park is believed to have been arson.  Bend Police are investigating the Saturday incident that also included graffiti totaling an estimated $1,000 in damage. 

Bend Parks Stewardship Manager Jeff Hagler says graffiti and other types of vandalism are growing problem, “If you see something, say something. So, patrons out there could help us if they see something unusual or not. Right. If they do see graffiti in certain areas, please give us a call and we want to take care of that as soon as possible.”

Hagler tells KBND News restrooms are the most common target but playground equipment and signs also see their share of tagging or damage. “Unfortunately, over the last couple of years it's grown and this year in particularly it seems to be worse. Just a lot of graffiti and it's been all over town, not just in the parks.”

Baby Season Kicks Off at Think Wild: Great Horned Owl Successfully Renested

Think Wild, a wildlife rehabilitation organization, has officially marked the beginning of baby season with a heartwarming success story involving a nestling great horned owl. Last week, in collaboration with the Sunriver Nature Center, Think Wild successfully renested the young owl, which had fallen from its nest.

The chain of events began when concerned individuals discovered the nestling owl and promptly contacted the Sunriver Nature Center. Wildlife curator Victoria Wilson from the center swiftly responded, collecting the owl and transporting it to Think Wild's wildlife hospital on the morning of March 20. Upon arrival, the owl, identified as Great Horned Owl 24-47, showed signs of slight bruising and hypothermia.

The dedicated staff at Think Wild wasted no time in providing critical care to the young owl. They stabilized its temperature in an incubator and treated the bruising, assessing that the owl stood a strong chance of thriving back in its natural habitat with its parents.

On Friday, March 22, Think Wild coordinated with the Sunriver Nature Center to execute a renesting effort. Thanks to knowledge of the nest site and ongoing observations of adult owls tending to the nest, the renesting process was carefully orchestrated. The nestling was gently returned to its nest, where it joyfully reunited with a sibling, both parents, and a plentiful supply of rodents for nourishment.

As baby season unfolds across Oregon, experts advise the public to remain vigilant for baby animals in need while exercising caution. It's crucial to consult with wildlife experts before approaching or intervening with wildlife. If anyone encounters wildlife they suspect is injured or orphaned, they are encouraged to call Think Wild's wildlife hotline at 541-241-8680 for assistance.

This heartening story not only highlights the dedication of organizations like Think Wild and the Sunriver Nature Center but also serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and responsible interaction with our natural environment during baby season.

Two Terrebonne restaurants featured as a pair of America's best

Two Central Oregon eateries are getting featured on America's Best Restaurants.

The media marketing company travels all over the country highlighting the food and people at restaurants.

This month, America's Best Restaurants is visiting Brand 44 North and Pump House Bar and Grill, both in Terrebonne.

America's Best Restaurants is visiting several other locations around Oregon. Below is the full list of restaurants featured this season:

3/20 - Kaleidoscope Pizza & Pub, Medford and The Parrott House, Roseburg

3/21 - Bedrock's on the Bay, Winchester Bay and Mo's Seafood & Chowder, Newport

3/22 - Cowboy Dinner Tree, Silver Lake

3/25 - Pump House & Brand 44 N, Terrebonne

3/26 - Yeasty Beasty, Monmouth and Nebbiolo Wine Bar, Oregon City

3/27 - Broken Top Bottle Shop, Bend and Maruti Indian Restaurant, Portland

3/28 - Amelia's Restaurants, Hillsboro

4/5 - Rustic Truck, Irrigon

What’s Up Central Oregon

 March 28, 2024

The Summit West Neighborhood District of Bend is hosting two “Living with Wildfire: Are You Prepared?” seminars alongside multiple preparedness partners to help raise awareness and encourage Central Oregonians to take steps to mitigate wildfire risks this spring. The seminars are FREE for anyone who wants to attend.

There are 2 sessions, 3:30 to 5:30 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM. All sessions are at the Bend Downtown Library in the Brooks Room and will also be available virtually via Zoom. The link below provides all the information.

Living with Wildfire: Are You Prepared?
 

Wednesday March 27th

Create Art with a Warhol Aesthetic during Printmaking Impressions High Desert Museum 12:00PM - 3:00PM 

Call Down Thunder @  McMenamins Old St. Francis School 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Ladysmith Black Mambazo @ Tower Theatre  7:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Thursday March 28th

No School Day Break @ DRRH Community Center 17200 Milky Way Road 9:30AM - 12:39PM

Sip And Paint @  Artists' Gallery Sunriver Village 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Erin Cole-Baker @ River's Place 6:00PM - 8:00PM

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.

Central Oregon Community College Community Education

Deschutes Public Library Events

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Why did Laidlaw languish and eventually get renamed to Tumalo?

A) Lack of water delivery from the irrigation project

B) Failure to build the planned railroad junction

C) Economic struggles in finding a niche

D) All of the aboveCorrect

 Answer: D) All of the above

Laidlaw faced challenges such as the failure of the irrigation project to deliver water as promised, the railroad not being built, and economic difficulties, leading to its renaming as Tumalo.

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