In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔 Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

🚶🚵New Trail Information Aims To Ease Congestion

📰Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation Recognized by U.S. Ski and Snowboard Among the Best Development Clubs in the United States

⚠️Cheatgrass Season is Here!

🔥Central Oregon Fire Info

🚧 Road Closures

🚨 Crime

 👮Police seek assistance from public on homicide investigation

📰 Community News

📰Chiloquin Community Center Celebrates 20 Years of Service

🫴 Local Cause Spotlight

🧒 Empowering Children, Transforming Lives: The Impact of Kids Inspired Non-Profit

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

🛍️Bend Handmade Market

🎶Sisters Folk Festival

🎉New Event Calendar! Central Oregon Local Live!

Keeping with the Sister’s Logging History

What transportation development significantly boosted the logging industry in Sisters, Oregon?

A) Construction of Highway 20

B) Extension of the railroad

C) Introduction of logging trucks

D) Development of the Deschutes River transportation system

👉Find the Answer in Tomorrow’s Newsletter👉

BEND

SISTERS

New Trail Information Aims To Ease Congestion

Posted by Heather Roberts KBND

BEND, OR -- The Central Oregon Trail Alliance is working to spread trail usage out across the region. COTA’s Vanessa Fron says the goal is to reduce unnecessary congestion at popular Bend locations, "When they start mountain biking, they think of Phil’s Trailhead in Bend.

But there are a multitude of other places that you can start mountain biking. You don’t have to come to Bend for that; and you don’t have to stay in Bend for that, either."

The nonprofit helps maintain 600 miles of single-track trails around the region and creates an average of 10 new miles each year. This spring, COTA used grant money to make it easier for people to find trails in Redmond, Madras and Prineville. "A lot of these new trailheads have signage that are up to date with all of the new trails that have been put into the area," says Fron, "Aside from that, we also got resources to spread to the community, so that they know how to get to these places and feel comfortable riding there with the level that they’re at." She tells KBND News, "We made a bunch of brochures, trifolds and flyers to send out into the community at local gas stations and diners and grocery stores, so that people can come to the town and see what it has to offer."

While COTA is primarily focused on mountain bikers, Fron says the group also wants to make sure trails are welcoming for every user, "We actually just partnered with Oregon Equestrian Trails to come together at Cascade View Trailhead out of Redmond, because we all just got an approved new trail in that area." She reminds mountain bikers they are supposed to yield to everyone else, "We come in hot, we come in fast.

And it’s important that we respect our other trail users, because we’re all out there to enjoy nature together. And it’s important to note that horses are skittish. And if you’re coming in hot, the last thing you want to do is put that horse out, and all of a sudden they’re running off, they’re kicking, you’re going to put yourself and that rider in danger."

Click HERE for information on getting involved with trail maintenance as a COTA volunteer. 

Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation Recognized by U.S. Ski and Snowboard Among the Best Development Clubs in the United States

The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) is proud to announce two significant achievements that underscore its commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in shaping the future of winter sports.

Firstly, MBSEF has achieved the prestigious status of a US Ski and Snowboard Bronze Club. This Podium Level Club Certification is a testament to MBSEF's unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding winter sports programs. Through a rigorous organizational assessment, MBSEF has demonstrated its adherence to industry-leading principles and practices, ensuring athletes and families have access to unparalleled programs and opportunities.

This certification underscores MBSEF's ongoing pursuit of excellence and its commitment to continuous improvement. "I am thrilled to share that MBSEF has been recognized as a US Ski and Snowboard Bronze Club," said Amy Tarnow, Executive Director of MBSEF. "We are excited to join the ranks of other winter sports clubs across the nation that have also earned this honor, and look forward to building on this achievement into the future."

Additionally, MBSEF has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2024 US Ski and Snowboard Development Club of the Year Award. This award highlights MBSEF's outstanding contributions to the skiing and snowboarding community, particularly through its developmental youth programming including the Mini World Cup Alpine Racing Program, Freeride Development, and Stevenson Nordic Youth programs.

The award celebrates MBSEF's commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and instilling a passion for winter sports in young athletes. "We are honored to receive the 2024 US Ski and Snowboard Development Club of the Year Award," remarked Tarnow.

"This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Coaches and Program Directors, whose tireless efforts have helped shape MBSEF into a leading force in the skiing and snowboarding community. We are immensely proud of all that we have achieved together."

Cheatgrass Season is Here!

Cheatgrass, scientifically known as Bromus tectorum, is an invasive annual grass posing a significant problem in the area. While not a major threat to grazing or livestock production, it is a pesky irritant to gardeners, a danger to pets, and a major accelerant of wildfires.

Rapid Spread and Impact

Cheatgrass has rapidly spread across 100 million acres of U.S. grassland and sagebrush areas, primarily in western states. Its presence reduces wildlife habitat, diminishes crop production, and depletes cattle forage. More alarmingly, it accelerates wildfires by drying out and becoming highly flammable by mid-July.

Wildlife and Environmental Effects

Bio scientists highlight that cheatgrass offers almost no value as forage or cover for wildlife, instead choking out valuable native plants. Species such as sage grouse, pronghorn, deer, pygmy rabbits, and elk have all been negatively impacted by cheatgrass invasion. In areas where cheatgrass has overtaken the landscape, the natural fire cycle has been drastically reduced from every 25-30 years to just 3-5 years, exacerbating the cycle of destruction and regrowth.

Historical Context and Ongoing Spread

Brought to North America in the 1800s, cheatgrass spread quickly via railroads, vehicles, and livestock activities. Today, up to 50 million acres have been converted to cheatgrass monoculture, with tens of millions more at high risk of invasion, as highlighted by a recent study involving scientists from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

Local Battlefronts

The growing presence of cheatgrass is particularly noticeable in the Deschutes National Forest and managed areas like the Crooked River National Grassland in Prineville and Madras. These regions are at the forefront of the ongoing battle against this invasive species.

Pet Health Risks

Cheatgrass seeds, or awns, become a significant hazard for pets, especially dogs. These seeds can lodge between toes, in fur, ears, eyes, and even the lungs, leading to serious health issues. If inhaled and not digested, these seeds can migrate through the body, potentially causing life-threatening abscesses and hefty veterinary bills.

Combating Cheatgrass

Herbicides are commonly used to remove cheatgrass, but they only kill the grown plants, leaving seeds in the soil that require repeated annual treatments. Residents of Sisters Country are often wary of chemical solutions, prompting research into alternative methods.

Ann Kennedy of the USDA-Agricultural Research Service has been exploring the use of bacteria as a biocontrol. After isolating 25,000 microscopic organisms from Washington and Oregon soil, Kennedy identified a promising bacterium known as D7. Though still in its early stages, D7 offers hope for a more sustainable solution.

In the meantime, manual removal by hand-pulling remains the most effective herbicide-free method, albeit labor-intensive.

Link to: Northwest Large Fire Interactive Web Map

Bend

Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of June 1st - 9th

Deschutes County

Weekly Road Construction Update Week of June 2nd - 8th

Redmond

Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of June 1st - 7th

ODOT - Region 4 Weekly Construction Update May 31st to June 7th

Police seek assistance from public on homicide investigation

At approximately 9:26 a.m. on Thursday, May 30, Bend Police were called to the area of the 3300 block of North U.S. Highway 97 for a welfare check. A person had gone to check on 62-year-old Bend resident David Carroll Hickman at his campsite on the property behind the Pacific Pride gas station and found him unresponsive. 

When officers arrived, they found Hickman dead in a ditch to the west of the gas station, and determined his death was suspicious. The Department’s investigative unit was called in, and officers performed a death investigation and canvassed area businesses for witnesses and video surveillance. 

On Friday, May 31, the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy and found Mr. Hickman died as a result of multiple injuries, including stab wounds, and his death was determined to be a homicide that took place either late on Wednesday evening or early Thursday morning. 

As the investigation continued, detectives determined using video surveillance that 31-year-old Bend resident Brian Lee Wynn had been with the victim on the evening of the homicide and was a person of interest in the case. Officers located Wynn at approximately 4:08 p.m. on Friday near NE Second Street and Emerson Avenue. He was taken into custody without incident or injury. He was taken first to the Bend Police Department and then lodged at the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon. 

At this time, Bend Police continue to investigate and are asking the public for help in locating a blanket that may have evidence of Mr. Hickman’s homicide. Police believe the blanket, seen in the attached photo, was worn by Wynn around the time of the homicide. 

If you find the blanket, please call Det. Chad Owens at 541-728-1242.

Chiloquin Community Center Celebrates 20 Years of Service

Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP) is delighted to announce the 20th-anniversary celebration of the Chiloquin Community Center, a cornerstone of the community since its grand opening in 2004.

The milestone will be marked with a commemorative event during our Monthly BINGO Night on Thursday, June 6, from 6-8pm at the center at 140 First St., Chiloquin, Oregon.

Twenty years ago, the dream of a dedicated space for the community was realized, thanks to volunteers’ unwavering support and donors’ generosity. The 13,000-square-foot facility was constructed with $1.7 million raised from donations and grants, including significant contributions from the Jeld-Wen Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, the Ford Foundation, and the Collins Foundation, among others. The Chiloquin Community Center was designed by Neal Huston Architects of Bend and opened its doors for the first time on June 11, 2004.

Since its opening, the Chiloquin Community Center has been more than just a building. It has been a vibrant hub for various activities and services, a place where the community comes together. It houses the Chiloquin Branch of the Klamath County Library, Two Rivers Arts Gallery, offices, and community meeting rooms, providing a versatile location for community activities and services. The center, operated by Chiloquin Visions in Progress, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Chiloquin through community-driven initiatives, has truly become the heart of our community.

We cordially invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone for what has become the heart of Chiloquin. Come and enjoy an exciting bingo night, a testament to the vibrant community spirit that has made this center possible. Refreshments will be provided, and we look forward to sharing this special evening with you.

About Chiloquin Visions in Progress:
Chiloquin Visions in Progress is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that is vital in the greater Chiloquin area. We serve as a catalyst for fostering a healthy and prosperous community, promoting civic engagement and community development. Through our various programs, initiatives, and events, we strive to empower residents to actively shape the future of their community.

chiloquinvision.com

Empowering Children, Transforming Lives: The Impact of Kids Inspired Non-Profit

Kids Inspired is a remarkable non-profit organization that is dedicated to empowering and supporting children to reach their full potential. Founded on the belief that every child deserves access to quality education and opportunities for growth, Kids Inspired strives to make a positive impact in the lives of young individuals. Through a variety of programs and initiatives, this non-profit works tirelessly to inspire and motivate children to dream big and achieve their goals.

One of the key aspects that sets Kids Inspired apart is its focus on providing holistic support to children. Beyond just academic assistance, this organization recognizes the importance of fostering emotional well-being, creativity, and personal development in young minds. By offering a range of activities, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, Kids Inspired ensures that children receive the support they need to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Education is at the heart of Kids Inspired's mission, and the organization is committed to creating innovative and engaging learning experiences for children. Through partnerships with schools, community centers, and other organizations, Kids Inspired delivers high-quality educational programs that aim to ignite curiosity, promote critical thinking, and cultivate a love for learning in children. By making education fun and accessible, this non-profit is helping to shape the future leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to academic support, Kids Inspired also places a strong emphasis on promoting social responsibility and community engagement among children. Through volunteer opportunities, service projects, and outreach initiatives, this organization encourages kids to give back to their communities and make a positive difference in the world around them. By instilling values of compassion, empathy, and kindness in young hearts, Kids Inspired is shaping the next generation of socially conscious individuals.

What truly sets Kids Inspired apart is its commitment to individualized support for each child. Recognizing that every child is unique and has their own set of strengths and challenges, this non-profit tailors its programs to meet the specific needs of each individual. Whether a child requires extra help with academics, social skills development, or emotional support, Kids Inspired is there every step of the way to provide personalized guidance and encouragement.

Through its dedication to empowering children and fostering a culture of positivity and growth, Kids Inspired has become a beacon of hope for young individuals facing adversity or challenges. By offering a safe and nurturing environment where kids can learn, explore, and grow, this non-profit is making a lasting impact on the lives of countless children. With a team of passionate educators, mentors, and volunteers leading the way, Kids Inspired is paving the path for a brighter future for all.

Kids Inspired is not just a non-profit organization; it is a movement that is transforming the lives of children one day at a time. By providing comprehensive support, engaging educational experiences, and opportunities for personal growth, this organization is empowering young individuals to become confident, compassionate leaders in their communities. Through its unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of children, Kids Inspired is setting a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together to support the next generation. Join us in supporting Kids Inspired and help us shape a better tomorrow for all children.

Learn More

Just for Fun!

Events Sponsored By Enjoy Bend Life Real Estate

What’s Up Central Oregon

Bend Handmade Market

Premiers June 8th 10AM Downtown Bend

We are SO excited to be debuting our Bend Handmade Market in Downtown Bend this June! You’ll find 100 makers and artists selling handmade goods. For those of you who have never been to an Urban Craft Uprising show, our events feature handcrafted goods including jewelry, housewares, clothing, toys, art, bath & body products, paper goods, fiber arts, candles, and so much more!

Urban Craft has been producing craft markets since 2005. We have a large following in the Pacific Northwest–primarily in Seattle and Portland–and we are eager to be expanding our horizons this year and bringing new shows both to Bend an to the Oregon Coast! We are so excited to showcase the local talent of Bend artisans, and to introduce you to some of our favorite vendors from all around the Pacific Northwest. The Bend Handmade Market will be free to attend, and a great way to support small businesses while finding unique gifts for wedding presents, housewarming gifts, birthdays, decor for your home, treats for others, and fun goodies for yourself!

Hello, folk music enthusiasts! We’re ecstatic to unveil the latest lineup additions for the 27th annual Sisters Folk Festival!

With the inclusion of these 14 sensational artists, the roster now boasts an impressive 33 acts set to take the stage(s) in Sisters on September 27 – 29!

From stirring ballads to foot-stomping tunes, this year’s festival promises another unforgettable musical experience featuring diverse talent from all over the world, redefining what we think of as “folk” music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

Chris Smither • Väsen

Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms Country Band •Las Guaracheras • Carsie Blanton • Viv & Riley •The Pairs • Gabe Lee • Paul Mcdonald • Michaela Anne •Tropa Magica • The Lowest Pair • Beth Wood • Lizzie No

Explore the Full Lineup

Tickets for the full three-day extravaganza are on sale now, so grab yours before they’re gone!

And don’t worry if you can’t commit to the entire weekend just yet — a limited number of single-day tickets will be available starting July 17.

Adult: $225/Ticket
Youth (17 & Under): $85/Ticket

sffpresents.org

Deschutes Public Library Events

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