❄️ Clearing snow off Cascade Lakes Highway

Issue #114

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In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔 Local Trivia Tuesday ANSWER

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🐺Wolf deaths have grown ‘alarming’ says Oregon Fish and Wildlife

🏛️🐺County Awarded Grant for Wolf Depredation Compensation

❄️ Clearing snow off Cascade Lakes Highway 🎦

📰🏛️Moon Pit site chosen as citizen advisory committee’s recommendation for Deschutes County’s next landfill

🚨 Crime News

🚨La Pine Male Arrested for Weapons Offense

 📰 Community News

🫴Crook County HS NJROTC students help Commissioner Seth Crawford fix up the large ‘CC’ logo on Prineville hill

🎶Melodies and merriment fill the air, as Bend ukulele aficionados gather for a festive get-together 🎦

⛑️First responders come together to donate blood for American Red Cross

🐶🐕🐕‍🦺 Pet of the Week - Urgent Foster Plea- SDH - Sponsored by WagBend

😁 MEME of the Day - provided by WagBend

📅 Lots of Events

 

When did the first automobile show up in Central Oregon?

A) 1900

B) 1898

C) 1921

D) 1907

Answer: D) 1907

BEND

Wolf deaths have grown ‘alarming’ says Oregon Fish and Wildlife

 

 by Alex Baumhardt, Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregon’s gray wolf population did not increase last year due in part to a large number of wolves killed by people, causing concern among conservationists and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife officials.

The latest Annual Wolf Report found the population remained steady at 178 wolves, marking the first time in eight years that their numbers didn’t increase. Typically, the population has grown by 6% a year. Among the 36 wolf deaths in 2023, 33 were caused by people. The state sanctioned the killing of 16 wolves following livestock deaths and 12 were killed illegally, the report said. 

“The amount of poaching and other suspicious deaths is alarming, impacts our conservation goals and could affect our ability to manage wolves in Oregon,” Bernadette Graham-Hudson, the agency’s wildlife division administrator, said in a news release.

The count is based on wolf tracks and other evidence, including appearance on wilderness cameras, and might be too low, officials said. It also doesn’t include the 10 wolves that were transported from Oregon to Colorado in December to help reestablish a wolf population there.

In addition to the steady numbers, the count cited two fewer wolf packs and successful breeding pairs in 2023 than in 2022 due to poaching. 

Gray wolves are listed as endangered under the federal Species Act in most of central and western Oregon, and four of the illegal killings took place in places where they are federally protected. Seven of the wolves that were illegally killed were poisoned. The state wildlife department, Oregon State Police and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are investigating the poisonings and offering a $50,000 reward for more information on three of them. Other deaths were caused by vehicles, cancer, natural causes or undetermined causes. One was shot by a livestock owner in an act of self defense, according to the report.

Environmentalists criticize state

Conservationists criticized Oregon’s fish and wildlife agency for allowing 16 wolves to be killed in 2023 for what the agency considered to be chronic livestock depredation by wolves. That is more state-sanctioned wolf killings than in any year since record keeping began in 2008, according to Amaroq Weiss, a senior wolf advocate at the nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity.

Weiss said in a news release that research shows that allowing for the legal killing of wolves leads to increases in illegal killing.

“Conservation groups have repeatedly raised this concern with the state wildlife agency, but they ignored us. Last year’s population decline is the shameful result,” he said. 

Spokespersons for the agency said in a release that sanctioning the killing of wolves when non-lethal measures fail to prevent livestock predation is key to long-term wolf conservation because it reduces the burden on livestock owners and encourages them to collaborate with regulators. The state also offers compensation to livestock owners who’ve lost animals to wolves. The compensation program paid out more than $477,000 to livestock owners in 11 counties in 2023 for their animal losses to wolves, agency officials said.

Most gray wolves in Oregon are in the northeast of the state. It’s also where most instances of wolves attacking livestock occur. The number of such attacks in the area rose 27% in 2023 compared to 2022. Statewide, however, the number of livestock killed by wolves fell last year. 

Owners with livestock killed by wolves must first implement non-lethal measures to prevent further deaths, such as deploying ground and aerial monitoring and moving cattle outside of their normal pasture areas to avoid conflicts. If these methods fail, owners can seek permission to kill the animals that return to prey on livestock. 

Oregon’s wolves are moving into broader territory and pushing farther west, the report said. Oregon’s gray wolf population may have reached its ecological limit in the eastern third of the state, according to state biologists, who said packs will probably spread out to the west and south in greater numbers.

Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: [email protected]. Follow Oregon Capital Chronicle on Facebook and Twitter.

County Awarded Grant for Wolf Depredation Compensation

On Wednesday April 10, the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners voted to accept grant funds from the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) for the county Wolf Depredation and Financial Compensation program.

The grant funds, totaling $32,620.75, will be used to reimburse ranchers whose livestock or working dogs have been confirmed to be missing, injured, or killed due to wolf depredation. The funds will also go towards the implementation of livestock management techniques and other preventative measures that discourage wolf depredation of livestock.

“This is the first grant awarded to the county since it established the Wolf Depredation and Financial Assistance Committee last May,” said Phil Chang, County Commissioner and Chair of the Committee.

"These funds will help reduce conflicts between livestock producers and wolves returning to Deschutes County through direct compensation for losses and by supporting work with ranchers to prevent future depredation.”

ODA offers the grant once a year to counties that have an established committee to oversee wolf depredation compensation and assistance for preventative measures. The Deschutes Board of County Commissioners established a Wolf Depredation and Financial Compensation Committee in May of 2023. The committee has been meeting regularly since June.

Clearing snow off Cascade Lakes Highway

Deschutes County was showing off their snow removal equipment Tuesday as they were clearing the Cascade Hwy. They predict that the highway could be open ahead of the expected Memorial Day weekend opening.

Moon Pit site chosen as citizen advisory committee’s recommendation for Deschutes County’s next landfill

After extensive analysis and public input, Deschutes County's Solid Waste Advisory Committee recommended Moon Pit as the next landfill when Knott Landfill closes. Moon Pit was chosen over Roth East due to its proximity to Bend and existing industrial use. Environmental groups raised concerns but recommended a mitigation program. Construction may start in 2027, with operations in 2028. The committee also emphasized waste reduction strategies and urged Warm Springs tribal involvement. County commissioners and candidates favor Moon Pit despite initial reservations.

For the Full Story go HERE

 

 

La Pine Male Arrested for Weapons Offense

Release by:  Sergeant Kyle Kalmbach

Release Date: 04/17/2024

Location:  50700 Block of Fawn Dr. La Pine

Arrested:  Albert Mendenhall, 79-year-old male, La Pine, OR

Charges:

3 Counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon

3 Counts of Menacing

3 Counts of Pointing a Firearm at Another

 

On April 16, 2024 at approximately 8:31 PM, deputies were dispatched to the 50700 block of S. Fawn Dr. in La Pine, Oregon regarding a domestic dispute involving a firearm.  It was reported that a male, later identified as Albert Mendenhall, was holding a gun and pointing it at other family members on scene.  Family members were able to safely exit the property and meet up with responding deputies. Deputies were able to make phone contact with Mr. Mendenhall who then agreed to surrender and turn himself over to deputies on scene.  Mr. Mendenhall was arrested without further incident.  During the incident, Deschutes County 911 sent a message via the emergency phone network informing residents in the nearby neighborhood to shelter in place due to an increase of law enforcement presence in the area.  The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Sunriver Police Department and the Oregon State Police for their assistance.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

Crook County HS NJROTC students help Commissioner Seth Crawford fix up the large ‘CC’ logo on Prineville hill

One of Prineville’s decades-old visual icons – those big white letters ‘CC’ emblazoned on the hill above Crook County High School – got one of its periodic spruce-ups, thanks to Crook County Commissioner Seth Crawford and NJROTC members who reached out to lend their helping hands.

The letters, which are on private property, were first put in place probably in the 1940s or ‘50s, Crawford said.

“It used to be managed by the schools, but the owner of the property didn’t want the liability of a bunch of people up there,” Crawford said Monday. “Before it was just willy-nilly, whatever. I went to them and said, ‘Can I help you guys manage it?’ ‘Sure.’

A few years ago, Blaine Noland, owner of a construction and painting firm, offered his time to help clean up and make the letters look new again.

This year, he said, the Naval JROTC students “reached out to me and offered to help me,” Crawford said. So the spent two or three hours helping spray the area for weeds, and are going to assist in painting it this summer.

Melodies and merriment fill the air, as Bend ukulele aficionados gather for a festive get-together

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The community of ukulele players call themselves B.U.G., which stands for ‘Bend Ukulele Group.’

Rick Creekmore, a ukulele player says: “You come, you spend the evening with us -- you’re officially a B.U.G.”

In a harmonious display of musical talent and camaraderie, ukulele enthusiasts converged at Big E’s Sports Bar and Grill in bend Tuesday evening for a joyous ukulele get-together. Strumming their way into the hearts of onlookers, showcasing their skills and passion for the petite instrument, turning the evening into a melodic spectacle.

The B.U.G.s consist of both seasoned players and newcomers alike, joining in the celebration of this beloved instrument.

From classic country rock tunes to modern pop hits, the repertoire was as diverse as this crowd itself, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy -- including myself.

Laughter and applause punctuated each performance, fostering a sense of community among the attendees.

Ukulele player Cynthia Chisum said: “I just started a year ago, and a friend invited my husband and I, so we came and somebody just handed me a ukulele -- and we got hooked.”

“It's happy. It's a very happy instrument!” says Rico, who loves the ukulele.

Judy Ann Lear said: “Just wonderful! It’s my favorite night of the week.”

Impromptu jam sessions broke out.  From spirited renditions of folk classics to heartfelt ballads, the music flowed freely, creating unforgettable moments for all in attendance.

It’s ‘clear’ that the spirit of the ukulele continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the joy and sociability that music brings to people's lives.

B.U.G . meets just about every Tuesday at Big E’s for a ukulele throw-down.

'I love having these Battle of the Badges': First responders come together to donate blood for American Red Cross - KTVZ

First responders rolled up their sleeves Monday to donate blood for what's become their quarterly Battle of the Badges event. Held this time At the Pilot Butte Fire Station, firefighters and police, along with others offering to give, donated blood to the American Red Cross. 

ktvz.com/news/top-stories/2024/04/15/bends-battle-of-the-badges-brings-first-responders-together-to-donate-blood-for-american-red-cross

Sponsored By WagBend 

URGENT!

We’re putting out another plea. An urgent one this time because we really need to find FOSTERS (in Bend or Portland) for the 5 dogs that are at our facility right now - Mishu, Bandito, Penelope, Blinkie and Sweets - to make room for the over 20 dogs that we have coming in from an overcrowded shelter in Oklahoma this week.

These dogs are all very sweet and loving with people but a couple need homes without other dogs. This is obviously harder to come by. So we’re asking if you can please SHARE this post to help get them seen!!

Mishu - Mishu is a Pointer mix that was surrendered to SDH from Warm Springs, OR. One thing we know for sure is that he would make a great working dog or adventure companion as he can run for days on end.

Bandito - A huge cuddle bug who loves to play fetch and play with his toys. He needs someone who can continue to work on his leash manners and will continue to socialize him with other dogs. Bonus about this guy, he does amazing living with cats!

Blinkie - Blinkie is a shepherd mix that was found as a stray in Warm Springs, OR along with her 9 puppies. She’s very sweet and affectionate and adores humans. We have only seen her with other dogs as a protective new mom so we’re still figuring out her dog preferences now that her puppies are out on their own. She would likely transition best into a home with no dogs but could potentially do well with another mellow dog who gives her space.

Penelope - Penelope also came to SDH from Warm Springs, OR. Prior to that, she was tied up outside for her entire life. When she first came to SDH she was very pregnant and had 6 healthy puppies so now, it’s this girls turn to find her forever fam! Penelope would prefer a home with no other dogs.

Sweets - 5 year old Akita who’s overall pretty low maintenance and mellow. She’s an absolute sweetheart with people and kids and is an A+ walker on a leash. While she would like a home where she is the only dog, having some kids in her family would be a dream for Sweets!

If you or someone you know is able to foster, even just for a couple of weeks, we would be so grateful. To apply to foster, just email [email protected]. #StreetDogHero

You guys. We need your help. We have a couple of great dogs at the office right now that would LOVE to find a temporary foster home so that they can get out of the kennel.

Today’s Meme by WagBend 

 

Upcoming Events

What’s Up Central Oregon 

Beaver Natural History Walk & Restoration Site Tour - 4-5 pm.  Followed by a screening of The Beaver Believers and Q &A Hosted by Maureen Thompson, Beaver Works Program Manager, and Kolleen Miller, Education Director for The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council.  Event held at Lake Creek Lodge in Camp Sherman.

Contact [email protected] (541) 699-1606 with questions about this event

Visit Central Oregon Calendar

Sisters

Sunriver

Redmond

Prineville

Bend

 

Wednesday April 17th

Billy By Himself - Local Musician @  Crosscut- Warming Hut No.5 6:00PM - 8:00PM

SFF Presents Breabach at The Belfry - Scottish Musicians @ The Belfry 7:00PM - 9:00PM

Thursday April 18th

RV Swap Meet 18th - 21st @ Camping World 9AM - 5PM

Pint Night - Prineville Tap Room Wild Ride Brewing Fundraiser for MountainStar Family Relief Nursery 5PM - 8PM

Barringer and Baker- music from 60’s, 70’s 80’s @ Stoller Wine Bar 6PM - 8PM

Friday April 19th

Saturday April 20th

The Little Fry Run @ Downtown Bend 12PM

An Evening With La Diva @ 4 Tokatee Lane, Sunriver, OR 6:30PM

Sunday April 21st

Springtime In Paris - Sunriver - La Pine Rotary Club Foundation Annual Fundraiser for Community Grants & Scholarships @ Great Hall at Sunriver Resort 5PM - 9PM

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

Please visit this Week’s Sponsors & Partners ⬇️

 

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