🚨Bend Police Identify Deceased Man in Ongoing Suspicious Death Investigation

Issue #136

31 May

 

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In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔 Local Trivia ANSWER

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🔥💲Jefferson County Residents May be Eligible for $600 Reimbursement through Defensible Space Grant

📰Deschutes River Conservancy Announces Introduction of Reauthorization Legislation in Congress

🚴‍♀️E-Bike Safety A Top Priority As Summer Approaches

🐎Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Locates Missing Mustang near Sisters, Oregon

🏕️ Campgrounds delayed opening

🔥Central Oregon Fire Info

🚧 Road Closures

🚨 Crime

🚨Bend Police Identify Deceased Man in Ongoing Suspicious Death Investigation

⚖️Rancher east of Bend who surrendered 15 horses seized by DCSO agrees to plea deal in animal neglect case

⚖️Founder of DAWNS House Arraigned Amid Public Defender Shortage, Faces Theft Charges Over $300K

📰 Community News

🪶Fledgling Red-Tailed Hawk Season Kicks Off Early This Year

🏘️ Real Estate News

📰 Central Oregon Market Report | May 29, 2024 By Reed Melton

🛠️ How Remodeling Can Improve Your Home's Value

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

💖 Celebrate State Parks Day at The Cove – Festival of The Land 

🤠 Sister’s Rodeo!

🎉New Event Calendar! Central Oregon Local Live!

 

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BEND

SISTERS

The town of Sisters originally developed as a logging town.

Which company was one of the first to establish a sawmill in Sisters, Oregon?

A) Brooks-Scanlon Lumber Company

B) Shevlin-Hixon Company

C) Three Sisters Lumber Company

D) Weyerhaeuser Company

Answer: C) Three Sisters Lumber Company

Expanded Answer: The Three Sisters Lumber Company was one of the first to establish a sawmill in Sisters, contributing to the town’s growth and development as a logging center.

Jefferson County Residents May be Eligible for $600 Reimbursement through Defensible Space Grant

Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC), in a collaborative effort with the Jefferson County Fire Chiefs, is offering private landowners the opportunity to apply for funding to minimize fire danger as outlined in the Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). Eligible residents will be offered a flat-rate reimbursement of $600 for treating the land around their homes to Firewise standards.

The goal of Firewise is to minimize fire danger in subdivisions and neighborhoods and make firefighting safer and more effective. Information on Firewise and how to prepare your home for wildfire can be found on the National Fire Protection Association website here: nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Wildfire/Preparing-homes-for-wildfire.

Local fire officials will be responsible for assuring standards were met prior to dispersing funds. The fire officials are trained evaluators of defensible space standards and will assess and certify properties as requested. The overall goal of this project is to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire to homes in high-risk areas by reducing hazardous fuels on private lands.

Applications are now open and must be submitted by April 1, 2025. All grant projects must be completed and approved by local fire officials by June 30, 2025. To learn more about eligibility and fill out the application, landowners can contact their local fire protection districts, visit coic.org/emergency-preparedness/jeff-co-fuels/ or contact Sommers Taylor at [email protected].

Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) was designated a Council of Governments in 1972 under ORS 190 and serves the local governments of Central Oregon. COIC provides regional services for employment and training, alternative high school education, business loans, planning and governance, community and economic development, and public transportation services operated by Cascades East Transit.

Deschutes River Conservancy Announces Introduction of Reauthorization Legislation in Congress

 (The Deschutes River Conservancy restores streamflow and water quality throughout the Deschutes Basin, including in this reach of the Upper Deschutes River upstream of Bend | Photo by Wirestock Creators)

The Deschutes River Conservancy (DRC) announces a significant step in scaling water conservation and river restoration in the Deschutes Basin with the introduction of the Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act into the House of Representatives by Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer. This important legislation is set to reinstate direct federal support for the DRC’s initiatives, complementing similar bills introduced by Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden.  Funding would support the DRC’s collaborative efforts to improve streamflow and water quality, benefiting rivers, local agriculture, and our cities and towns.

Rep. Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the impact of the DRC’s work, stating, “For decades, the collective efforts of the DRC have helped promote sustainable water management practices, improving water quality and supporting recreational activities for generations of Oregonians. I’m honored to lead the Deschutes River Conservancy Act and will continue working to support their efforts at the federal level.”

The DRC expresses profound gratitude for the bipartisan support from both the House and Senate, reflecting the regional importance of the Deschutes River and underscoring the community’s dedication to collaborative resource stewardship.

“We are thrilled by Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer’s introduction of legislation to reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy. This critical funding will help scale the water conservation solutions that provide resilience to agriculture, cities, and rivers in the Deschutes Basin into the future. This legislation is not just a testament to the regional significance of the Deschutes River, but also to the dedication to collaboration by our community and partners,” said Kate Fitzpatrick, executive director of the Deschutes River Conservancy.

The DRC’s efforts, in collaboration with irrigation districts and other partners, have helped pipe over 100 miles of irrigation canals, restore 350 cubic feet per second of stream flow to basins, and increase water supply reliability to over 150,000 acres. Additionally, the DRC has engaged with over 45 local and regional groups to secure the best possible outcome for those utilizing the river for irrigation, recreation, and other purposes.

The Deschutes River Conservancy Act would reauthorize the DRC through 2034, enabling it to receive $2 million in federal funding annually through the Bureau of Reclamation.
Read the original House Bill

About the Deschutes River Conservancy:
The Deschutes River Conservancy (DRC) was formed in 1996 to restore streamflow and improve water quality in the Deschutes River Basin. The DRC has a multi-stakeholder board and, through its collaborative efforts, has restored up to 350 CFS (equivalent to over 14 Olympic-sized swimming pools per hour) of flow in the basin with non-litigious, voluntary, and market-based programs.

E-Bike Safety A Top Priority As Summer Approaches

Posted by Heather Roberts KBND

It’s been almost a year since a Bend teen was killed when the electric bike he was riding collided with a minivan. With warming weather comes renewed warnings about kids on e-bikes. "We’ve seen an influx of scooters, e-bikes and children using them as a way to get around; obviously very efficient. However, they move very quickly and deceivingly so," says Deschutes County Sheriff’s Sgt. Jason Wall. That speed can surprise drivers who don’t realize how fast an e-bike is approaching their vehicle, "People are not used to seeing individuals on these bikes. They’re silent; they don’t make any noise. A motorcycle at least has an exhaust note or some engine noise that could alert other drivers." He says several factors makes him worry more about e-bike riders, "The fact that they’re so quiet, the fact that they’re not at the forefront of everyone’s mind yet, and the fact that we see a number of motorcycle crashes over the summertime. And those, they result in tragedy; people injured, people killed. So, you factor in the silence of the bike, children utilizing them, it’s a recipe for disaster when they come into contact with a motor vehicle."

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Locates Missing Mustang near Sisters, Oregon

SISTERS, OR – May 30, 2024 – The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office has successfully located a missing 17-month-old all-white Mustang, last seen near the 70000 block of Holmes Road. The horse was found in relatively good health and has been safely returned to its owner.

The young Mustang was reported missing by its owner on the evening of May 28, after escaping from the property. It was last observed wearing a red and white blanket, a distinctive marking that likely aided in its quick recovery. Following the report, an extensive search was initiated involving local authorities and community members.

Sergeant Jason Wall of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office expressed gratitude to the community and everyone involved in the search efforts. "We are thankful for the swift response and support from the community which played a crucial role in locating the missing Mustang," said Sgt. Wall. "It’s a relief to find the horse in good health and to see it reunited with its owner."

The successful location of the Mustang highlights the effectiveness of community involvement in such incidents. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office continues to encourage residents to stay engaged and assist in similar situations when they arise.

The horse is now safely back at its home on Holmes Road, and no further assistance from the public is required at this time. The Sheriff's Office has closed the case, thanking everyone for their vigilance and quick action that led to a happy ending.

Some Campgrounds delayed opening

Ignitions planned on up to 300 acres; road, river and trail closures anticipated

Bend

Deschutes County

Do Not Cross!

Bend Police Identify Deceased Man in Ongoing Suspicious Death Investigation

BEND, OR – May 30, 2024 – The Bend Police Department has identified the deceased individual found earlier today near North U.S. Highway 97 as David Carroll Hickman, a 62-year-old local resident. The investigation into his death continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the grim discovery.

At around 9:26 a.m., officers responded to a welfare check in the 3300 block of North U.S. Highway 97, adjacent to the Pacific Pride gas station. Upon arrival, they found Hickman's body in a ditch, prompting an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Police are treating Hickman's death as suspicious and are actively gathering evidence and seeking witnesses who may have seen anything unusual in the area this morning. The location, being a busy thoroughfare, could potentially yield numerous witnesses or security camera footage.

The Bend Police Department has not released further details about the condition in which Hickman was found or any potential causes of death, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. They have, however, confirmed that Hickman's next of kin has been notified and are requesting that anyone with information contact them directly.

This incident has stirred concern among local residents, as incidents of this nature are relatively rare in the area. The police are assuring the community that they are doing all they can to determine the facts of the case swiftly and ensure public safety.

Investigators are asking anyone who was in the vicinity of the 3300 block of North U.S. Highway 97 this morning to come forward with any information they may have. Public cooperation could be crucial in uncovering the details of what led to Hickman's untimely death.

Rancher east of Bend who surrendered 15 horses seized by DCSO agrees to plea deal in animal neglect case

By Barney Lerten

A rancher east of Bend who surrendered 15 allegedly neglected horses to Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies last month faced one felony and 15 misdemeanor charges. But she has agreed to a plea deal for an expected sentence of five years’ probation, 100 hours of community service and a ban on possessing horses or other farm animals.

In a court filing signed Wednesday, two days before her scheduled plea hearing, Jean Alma Poirier, 66, agreed to plead guilty to the felony count of second-degree animal neglect, reduced to a Class A misdemeanor.

Poirier admitted that in early March, she “did unlawfully and recklessly fail to provide minimum care for an animal, to-wit: horses … and the offense was part of a criminal episode involving 11 or more animals.” That single misdemeanor count could have brought a sentence of up to 364 days in jail and/or a $6,250 fine, she noted.

Waiving her right to a trial before a jury or judge, Poirier's plea agreement said prosecutors have agreed to recommend to the judge that she receive five years’ probation, along with requirements to complete 100 hours of community work service within two years and not possess any horses or other farm animals.

Poirier also agreed to “allow periodic check-ins by law enforcement to confirm health of any domestic animals on premises” and to pay restitution to DCSO for the feed, care, veterinarian care and boarding of the horses.

Counts 2-8 of the indictment would be discharged and the remaining counts dismissed, if Circuit Judge Raymond Crutchley agrees to the deal at a plea hearing set for Friday morning.

Sheriff’s Lt. Bryan Husband said last month that Poirier cooperated with an month-long investigation that determined horses on the 9.3 -acre property “were in dire need of intervention, namely additional veterinarian care, hoof care and proper feed.”

Seventeen dogs also on the property were examined as well and were found to be in better condition, so she was allowed to retain the dogs, based on her continued cooperation.

Poirier surrendered ownership of the 15 horses, 13 to 29 years old, which were seized and taken to the DCSO Rescue Ranch in southeast Bend. They have since received special care, including for their teeth and hooves.

Founder of DAWNS House Arraigned Amid Public Defender Shortage, Faces Theft Charges Over $300K

Dawn Holland, founder of DAWNS House, appeared in court for arraignment on charges of stealing over $300,000 from the nonprofit but remains without a public defender due to a shortage, delaying her proceedings. Indicted on multiple theft charges, she faces up to 10 years in prison per charge. Meanwhile, her new venture, Resilience Recovery Homes, is under scrutiny, and she remains out on bail. The ongoing public defender shortage in Oregon is complicating her case and others, prompting concern from Governor Tina Kotek about the state's ability to provide adequate legal representation.

Fledgling Red-Tailed Hawk Season Kicks Off Early This Year

This year, fledgling Red-tailed hawk season has begun earlier than expected. As the evenings approach, the helpline starts ringing with concerned calls that typically go like this: "We have found a hawk that is injured and can't fly. It's been on the ground for the entire day. Can you help?"

Fortunately, modern technology has made it easier to address these concerns. With everyone equipped with smartphones, people can now text pictures of the "injured" bird to us. More often than not, these birds are fledgling Red-tailed hawks. Once they begin to fledge, about 99% of the time, the "hawk that can't fly" is actually a young, healthy fledgling.

During this fledgling stage, these young hawks spend many days on the ground before they are capable of flying well. Though they might seem abandoned, their parents are still keeping a close watch and feeding them, even if they are not always visible. Meanwhile, the fledglings tend to stay on the ground or hop onto fences, calmly observing their surroundings. It's not uncommon for them to perch on deck railings and peer into windows, appearing curious and docile.

Their docile nature and approachable demeanor often lead people to believe they are injured. Despite looking like full-sized hawks, a closer inspection reveals they still have some fluffy downy feathers, indicative of their youth. Unless you notice obvious signs of injury, such as a drooping wing or blood, these birds are typically just healthy fledglings that need time to develop their flying skills.

To ensure their safety, it’s important to keep people and pets away from these young hawks. If you’re still concerned, don’t hesitate to contact a wildlife rehabilitator. While we are always happy to provide assistance, we often find that the best course of action is to leave the fledgling alone and allow it the time it needs to grow stronger. The accompanying photos show various fledgling Red-tailed hawks that have prompted calls to our helpline.

Remember, a little patience and observation can go a long way in ensuring these magnificent birds grow into the skilled fliers they are meant to be.

Badger Run Wildlife Rehab

15993 Homestead Ln, Klamath Falls, OR, United States, Oregon

541-891-2052

Photo by Reed Melton

By Reed Melton

All three counties in Central Oregon saw modest inventory growth this week, with Deschutes County surpassing the one-thousand mark for the first time in years. While growing inventory has created a considerably larger selection for buyers, it has yet to soften prices. However, many sellers have reconsidered the lofty asking prices of late and come down to reality. Price reductions are good for buyers, but reducing the price from extreme highs does not necessarily make a property's price appealing. It may indicate seller motivation, a good indicator for buyers to follow.

This morning, the Deschutes County inventory of single-family homes is 1018, up twenty from last week. Four hundred active listings have reduced the asking price, 39.3% of the market. In a typical healthy market, approximately one-third of active listings will reduce the price at any given moment, so an increase to nearly 40% is noteworthy. Activity remains consistent, with 79 pending sales this week and only 25 median days on the market. The percentage of price reductions of the pending sales sits at 29.1%, well within a healthy range. Forty-one sales for the week with fifteen reductions equates to 36.6%, also within a healthy range. The median days on the market for the properties sold was twenty-two. Reading between the lines, it is clear that more sellers have reduced the asking price before securing a contract. Remember, the price reduction metric shows price drops before securing a contract; the negotiated price revealed after the sale may be lower still. 

As of this writing, the national average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is 7.28%, within the range of the last several months and showing signs of stability. Even a single rate pivot in 2024 from the Federal Reserve seems highly unlikely. Jerome Powell appears content to use his continued dovish narrative to ease financial conditions and leave rates untouched. In light of continued inflation, the real interest rate is closer to neutral than many would have you believe and far from the position necessary to create restrictive economic policy. Unless you are refinancing a bond on commercial real estate, but that is another topic.

Single-family homes in Crook County jumped thirteen to 124, with six pending and six sold properties this week. Four of the six sales reduced the asking price, with a median of fifty-three days listed. Buyers are scooping up these properties as sellers get more realistic about price. Three of the six closed transactions reduced the price with only seventeen median days on the market. Well-priced homes are still moving quickly. 

Jefferson County inventory increased by one to 93, with nine pending sales. Four of the pending sales reduced the asking price, and the median days on the market were only fourteen. None of the three sold properties took a price cut, with the median days listed at thirty-one. 

Analyzing the data and based on my experience in the field, today's market seems uneven regarding the impact on our growing inventory. Well-priced properties are moving fast, with many homes that did not sell last year coming to market and finding a buyer quickly this spring. We are building an increasing number of homes lingering on the market, with more price reductions across the active inventory. Desirable homes are still experiencing high demand, with fewer, more minor price changes. This fall could be an excellent opportunity for buyers as inventory builds and sellers adjust to market conditions. As always, in Central Oregon, finding the right property can be more challenging than finding the right price, and the low days on the market for pending and sold homes prove that buyers are not holding back when they find what they want. 

In addition to my work on my computer analyzing the market, I have also been in-person at properties all over Central Oregon. Please reach out if you have any questions about our housing dynamics. I have answers!

 

Active Listings

Renovate Tichina Arnold GIF by CBS

How Remodeling Can Improve Your Home's Value

Remodeling your home can be a smart investment that not only enhances your living space but also significantly boosts your property's value. Whether you're planning to sell soon or just want to make worthwhile improvements, strategic remodeling projects can offer a high return on investment (ROI). Here’s how you can increase your home’s value through remodeling.

1. Update the Kitchen

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and it's one of the first places potential buyers look. Modernizing your kitchen can yield a high ROI. Consider updating appliances, installing new countertops, and replacing old cabinets. Even minor updates, like new hardware and a fresh coat of paint, can make a big difference.

2. Revamp the Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another critical area for home value. A full bathroom remodel, including new fixtures, tiles, and vanities, can make your home more appealing. Adding an additional bathroom or converting a half bath to a full bath can also significantly increase your home's value.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and enhancing your home's curb appeal can attract potential buyers. Simple projects like landscaping, painting the exterior, and updating the front door can make your home more inviting. More extensive projects, such as adding a porch or improving the driveway, can also provide a good ROI.

4. Increase Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient homes are increasingly in demand. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows, adding insulation, and installing solar panels can lower utility costs and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. These improvements not only save money but also make your home more marketable.

5. Add Living Space

Increasing your home's living space is a great way to add value. This can be done by finishing a basement, converting an attic, or adding an extension. More living space typically translates to a higher home value, as it offers additional usable areas for potential buyers.

6. Modernize the Home’s Systems

Updating the home’s systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, can be a strong selling point. Buyers appreciate knowing that these essential systems are up to date and reliable, which can justify a higher asking price.

7. Open Up the Floor Plan

Open floor plans are popular in modern homes. Removing non-structural walls to create a more open and connected living space can make your home feel larger and more inviting. This type of remodel can dramatically change the look and flow of your home, adding significant value.

8. Upgrade Flooring

New flooring can instantly update the look of your home. Hardwood floors, in particular, are highly desirable and can increase your home's value. If hardwood is out of your budget, consider high-quality laminate or tile options.

9. Install Smart Home Technology

Smart home features are becoming increasingly popular. Installing smart thermostats, security systems, and lighting can make your home more appealing to tech-savvy buyers. These features offer convenience and energy savings, adding to your home's overall value.

10. Maintain Regular Upkeep

Regular maintenance and minor repairs are crucial. A well-maintained home shows buyers that it has been cared for, which can prevent potential issues during inspections. Fixing leaks, painting walls, and ensuring that everything is in good working order can go a long way in maintaining and boosting your home's value.

By focusing on these remodeling projects, you can significantly enhance the appeal and value of your home. Whether you choose to make small changes or undertake major renovations, thoughtful improvements can lead to a substantial return on your investment. Happy remodeling!

Upcoming Events

Events Sponsored By Enjoy Bend Life Real Estate

What’s Up Central Oregon

June 1st 10AM - 3PM

 Celebrate State Parks Day at The Cove – Festival of The Land 

Come celebrate the land, food and stories from where the Crooked River and the Deschutes River canyons meet. Many cultures have made this area home, and each brings a diversity of experiences to share. Help us celebrate the history and all the cultures that make this land so special.

This event includes:

  • Free parking and admission

  • History, culture and wildlife displays

  • Covered Wagon/Dutch oven cooking demonstrations

  • Archeology hikes

  • Kids’ games!

  • Petting “zoo”

  • Mini farmers market, pollinator and fish displays, fire engine and more

Parking will be limited. Additional parking available with a free shuttle service from the Crooked River Campground area. 

La inmigración latina es una parte importante de esta historia que se cuenta. Parte del personal estará disponible para hablar español.

JUNE 5TH - JUNE 9TH

The Sisters Rodeo is gearing up for another SOLD OUT year and we are so thankful for all of you! Make sure you call the ticket office to buy your tickets direct - we can not validate or support third-party tickets so, please, tread carefully!

TICKETS:

Wednesday, Xtreme Bulls - Limited tickets left

Friday Performance - Red Rock Corral Standing Room Only Tickets

Saturday Matinee - Red Rock Corral Standing Room Only Tickets

Saturday Night Performance - Red Rock Corral Standing Room Only Tickets

Sunday Performance - Limited tickets left

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

Please visit this Week’s Sponsors & Partners ⬇️

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