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In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔 Local Trivia ANSWER

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

🎤Subaru of Bend Summer Kickin' Concert Series: Trace Adkins

🎭Death of a Salesman By Sunriver Stars Community Theater

🎉New Event Calendar! Central Oregon Local Live!

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

🔥Oregon has nearly as many fires burning as Washington, Idaho and California combined

📰Scenic Day Use Areas Reopen After Successful Hazard Tree Removal

🔥Central Oregon Fire Info

Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Update – July 23, 2024

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🔥⛑️Fire & Rescue News

⛑️Redmond Police Investigate Serious Motorcycle Crash Involving Jeep SUV

🚨 Crime News

⚠️Redmond Police Alert Public to Scam Attempts

📰Update: $1,000 reward offered for tips after mule deer doe is shot

🚨Pellet gun shatters Redmond woman's window; police search for answers

🚨Bend Man Arrested for Armed Robbery at Marijuana Dispensary

 📰 Community News

Got some news or know of news for our Community News Segment - share it with C.O. Local Buzz!

 🫴💖 Local Cause Spotlight

🐶😺Changing Lives, One Paw at a Time: Humane Society of the Ochocos

🐕‍🦺Pet of the Week - Meet PJ 💖

💖Pampered Chef Fundraiser this week!

😁 MEME of the Day

🌆 On going Events

📲Sponsors & Partners

Which historical Bend building, originally constructed in 1916 as a lumber mill, now serves as a mixed-use space with shopping, dining, and entertainment options, and is part of a significant redevelopment project?

A. The Old Mill District

B. The Box Factory

C. McMenamins Old St. Francis School

D. Deschutes Brewery

Answer: B. The Box Factory

Expanded Answer: The Box Factory, originally built in 1917 as the Brooks-Scanlon Box Factory, has been transformed into a vibrant mixed-use space. Located in the heart of Bend, it offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and offices. The redevelopment of the Box Factory is a testament to Bend's ability to preserve its historical roots while fostering economic and cultural growth.

BEND

SISTERS

Events Sponsored By Enjoy Bend Life Real Estate

What’s Up Central Oregon

Subaru of Bend Summer Kickin' Concert Series: Trace Adkins

July 27th

General Duffy's Waterhole announces Grammy Award Winning Country All-Star TRACE ADKINS performing live July 27th, 2024 at the Subaru of Bend 2024 Summer Kickin' Concert Series presented by Central Oregon Daily News in Downtown Redmond, Oregon. Tickets on sale now!

Come early and snag a delicious - locally crafted - refreshment by Sunriver Brewing, GoodLife Brewing, Avid Cider, or Three Creeks Brewing - We are proudly pouring and promoting - Top-Notch - local Beer, Wine, Seltzer, and Cider for your satisfaction while supporting our local breweries, cideries, and Oregon vineyards! We will have numerous beverage stations available to our Guests serving up delicious cocktails and kid-friendly Pepsi products, as well!

Arriving early to the show is highly encouraged and the optimal experience for Guests eager to explore our Venue, get settled into the show, and indulge in our awesome - locally owned + Chef operated - Mobile Kitchen cuisines featuring flavors by Westside Taco, Wrap Star International Cuisine, Red Beard Barbecue, Baitong on Wheels Thai, and Sally's Wok Asian Fusion!
Access opens at 4pm

Death of a Salesman By Sunriver Stars Community Theater

July 25th & 26th at 7:30,  July 27th at 2pm

What does it mean to live in a society that promises a lot but guarantees nothing? Sunriver Stars Community Theater is proud to present Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize winning tragedy, Death of a Salesman. Follow the story of Willy Loman – an everyday, aging, traveling salesman – as he struggles for success in search of dying promise of the American Dream.  Directed by:  Joshua Billetier

5 performances at Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend, OR 97703

Oregon has nearly as many fires burning as Washington, Idaho and California combined

By David Nuñez | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Oregon has nearly as many wildfires burning as three neighboring states combined.

As of Tuesday, Oregon had 38 active wildfires that ranged in size from 0.01 acres, near the Umpqua National Forest in Clearwater, to over 223,800 acres, in Baker County’s Durkee area, according to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, which coordinates fire response for Oregon and Washington.

California, Idaho and Washington combined have 45 fires, with California at 24, Idaho at 12 and Washington at nine, according to Cal Fire, the Idaho Department of Land Management and Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

Over 767,600 acres are burning in Oregon, compared with 105,800 acres in California, 71,200 in Washington and 7,700 in Idaho.

U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Dist. 2, who represents all of eastern Oregon and parts of southern Oregon in Congress, called the situation “horrible” and placed the blame on unthinned timber throughout the state. He said combating the blazes was an almost herculean task.

“The federal folks are doing their best to do the impossible,” Bentz told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Four of the largest fires in Oregon, three over 100,000 acres and one over 200,000, are in the central and eastern parts of the state.

Carol Connolly, spokesperson for the coordination center, said recent thunderstorms and lightning explain why Oregon has the highest number of active wildfires and why they are concentrated in the central and eastern parts of the state.

From Sunday to Monday, Oregon recorded around 1,300 lightning strikes, while neighboring Washinton had only 128, Connolly said.

Lightning sparked the Durkee fire Wednesday in Baker County. The fire is 0% contained, the center reports.

Northwest of Burns, the Falls fire – which started on July 10 – has grown to 139,500 acres and is 40% contained, the Northwest Incident Management Team 8 reported. The fire growth is due to a series of thunderstorms and winds up to 25 mph.

The management team reported they conducted a successful “tactical burnout” operation Sunday night near Coral Creek to secure a line near private properties.

The Cow Valley fire, located north of Vale, is at 133,400 acres. The fire has burned more than 128,000 acres of grazing range since starting on July 11 and is 78% contained, according to Oregon Department of Forestry.

Lone Rock fire, 10 miles southeast of Condon, has grown to just over 131,400 acres since starting on July 13, Central Oregon Fire reported.

More than half of the fires are concentrated just 12 miles north of Crater Lake, where a cluster of 25 fires rest within a 30-mile radius. Most of the fires are relatively small, with the largest fire being a little over 1,100 acres.

On Monday, state officials ordered a Level 3 (go now) evacuation order to the south of Hood River and east of Mosier for the Microwave Tower fire.

Naturally caused fires are not preventable but preventing any human-caused wildfires is crucial for aiding firefighters battling the ongoing ones, Connolly said.

“Any new human-caused fires will take critical resources to put out,” she said.

Scenic Day Use Areas Reopen After Successful Hazard Tree Removal

Bend, OR – Visitors to Sparks Lake, Todd Lake, and Devils Lake Day Use Areas will be delighted to know that these picturesque spots are once again open to the public. The reopening follows the successful completion of hazard tree removal work, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all who come to experience the natural beauty of Central Oregon.

The meticulous effort involved in removing hazardous trees was a collaboration between the dedicated staff of the Sisters Ranger District and the enthusiastic Youth Conservation Alpha Crew from Heart of Oregon Corps. Their hard work and commitment to maintaining these beloved areas have made it possible for locals and tourists alike to return and revel in the stunning landscapes.

Hazardous trees, which pose risks due to potential falling branches or entire trees toppling, were carefully identified and removed. This crucial work not only protects visitors but also helps preserve the health and aesthetics of these natural areas. The combined efforts of the conservation crew and the ranger district staff have restored these sites to their safe, inviting conditions.

Sparks Lake, known for its reflective waters and striking mountain views, is a popular spot for kayaking and photography. Todd Lake offers serene trails and fishing opportunities, while Devils Lake captivates with its turquoise waters and tranquil ambiance. Each of these locations provides unique outdoor experiences that attract nature enthusiasts year-round.

The reopening of these day use areas marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the natural spaces in Central Oregon. As visitors return to these cherished locations, they are reminded to practice Leave No Trace principles to help keep the environment pristine for future generations.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Heart of Oregon Corps Youth Conservation Alpha Crew and the Sisters Ranger District staff for their dedication and hard work in ensuring the safety and beauty of Sparks Lake, Todd Lake, and Devils Lake Day Use Areas. Your efforts have made a lasting impact on our community and the natural world we cherish.

For more information on visiting these and other local attractions, please visit the official websites or contact the Sisters Ranger District office. Enjoy your outdoor adventures and stay safe!

Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Update – July 23, 2024

Central Oregon — Yesterday firefighters in Central Oregon responded to over 25 new reported fire starts. Firefighters had great success keeping most fires under an acre. A few fires quickly grew under continued hot and dry conditions.

The Durgan Fire, which started on private lands adjacent to the Ochoco National Forest approximately six miles northeast of Paulina quickly grew yesterday to an estimated 3,000 acres with active fire behavior. Firefighters on scene include Post-Paulina Rangeland Fire Protection Association (RFPA) and federal resources. Today firefighters are constructing line around the perimeter of the fire and looking at places where rocky outcroppings can be used as potential control features. Federal resources are currently in unified command with the Crook County Emergency Management. The fire is 0% contained.

At 8 p.m. last night the Crook County Sheriff’s Office shared the following update: “According to incident command at the scene of the fire, the evacuation levels have changed. South of the forest boundary on Beaver Creek Road is now at a level 2 evacuation status. Everything east of Big Summit Prairie to the county line and south to the forest boundary will remain at level 3 evacuation. The roadblock at Ochoco Ranger Station will be removed soon. The roadblock at Beaver Creek Road and Paulina Highway will be moved to the forest boundary.” For additional updates from the Crook County Sheriff’s Office visit facebook.com/CrookCountySheriff.

The Crazy Creek Fire, burning on the Ochoco National Forest five miles east of Big Summit Prairie near Crazy Creek, is estimated at 700 acres and is 0% contained.

The Pulley Creek Fire, burning on the Ochoco National Forest, approximately 1 mile southwest of Big Summit Prairie, is currently estimated at 11 acres and 0% contained. Firefighters completed dozer line around the perimeter of the fire last night and will work on securing lines today.

Firefighters are also engaged in suppressing a few small fires burning north of Big Summit Prairie.

Firefighters continue to make good progress on the Wickiup and Round Mountain Fires burning on the Deschutes National Forest. The Round Mountain and Wickiup Fires are burning approximately seven miles northwest of La Pine and just north of Wickiup Reservoir. A Central Oregon Type 3 Team is managing both incidents.

Firefighters are continuing to mop up hots spots and secure the perimeter’s of both fires. The Wickiup Fire remains 168 acres and is now 50% contained. The Round Mountain Fire remains 108 acres and is now 20% contained.

Yesterday the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office decreased evacuation notices around the Wickiup Fire to Level 1 (Be Ready). This includes the Haner Park area and the Deschutes National Forest between Forest Service Road 4262 and Forest Service Road 44, south of South Century Drive (FS 42) and Burgess Road (FS 43).

The Deschutes National Forest has issued area emergency closures for both the Wickiup Fire and the Round Mountain Fire. Bull Bend and Wyeth Campgrounds and Tenino Boat Launch are currently closed. North Twin Lake Campground remains closed and is being used to support firefighting operations.

Visit the official source for wildfire information in Central Oregon at centraloregonfire.org for wildfire updates or follow fire information on X/Twitter @CentralORfire. Call 9-1-1 to report a wildfire.

 Central Oregon Public Lands Move to Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) IV “General Shutdown” on Thursday

Lone Rock Fire Update | July 23, 2024

Larch Creek Fire Update no new updates

Red Fire Update

Falls Fire Update

Boneyard Fire Update

Cat Rock Fire Update

Link to: Air Quality Index map

Link to: Northwest Large Fire Interactive Web Map

Redmond Police Investigate Serious Motorcycle Crash Involving Jeep SUV

Redmond, OR - Tuesday, July 22, at 10:14 p.m., the Redmond Police Department along with Redmond Fire and Rescue responded to a motor vehicle accident near the intersection of NW Maple Avenue and NW 22nd Street. The accident involved a Jeep sports utility vehicle and a Kawasaki motorcycle.

The rider of the motorcycle, a 19-year-old Redmond man, was transported to St. Charles in Bend with life threatening injuries. The driver of the Jeep SUV, a 59-year-old Redmond man called 911 following the crash, remained on scene and was determined to be uninjured. The Oregon State Police also responded to assist by conducting a crash scene reconstruction.

The Redmond Police Department would like to thank the Oregon State Police as well as the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, who responded to Redmond calls for service as the crash was being investigated. The investigation is ongoing as of today, and cause of the accident has not

Redmond Police Alert Public to Scam Attempts

The Redmond Police Department (RPD) has fielded multiple calls today from citizens regrading an attempted scam. Each person stated they received a call from the Redmond Police Department’s business phone number. The person on the line represented themselves as a Redmond Police Officer and was attempting to obtain personal information from citizens. The caller is using the guise of a missed jury summons.

Please know the Redmond Police Department is not calling citizens and soliciting personal information over the phone. NEVER give your banking or other financial information to anyone representing themselves as a Redmond Police Officer. If you have received this call and did give information over the phone, call your bank or financial institution immediately and report suspected fraud.

If you’re ever skeptical regarding if you are speaking to a member of the Redmond Police Department you can confirm the members identity by calling our business line at 541-504-3400 or non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911.

Update: $1,000 reward offered for tips after mule deer doe is shot, killed with arrow, left to waste in NW Madras

MADRAS, OR — Poachers shot a mule deer doe with an arrow and left the carcass to waste in Madras a Madras neighborhood on Thursday, June 13. The reward for information leading to an arrest or citation is $1,000 or four ODFW hunter preference points, officials said Tuesday in an update on the case.

OSP Fish and Wildlife troopers received a call the same day and located the doe near NW Hart Street. Officials could not determine where the incident had originally taken place and said the doe may have traveled some distance before collapsing, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said.

Illegally killing doe deer in spring or early summer may lead to the death of fawns that still need milk and protection from their mothers, according to ODFW biologist Jamie Bowles.

"Mule deer already face barriers to migration routes, drought, and habitat reduction," Bowles said, "Poaching is an added factor in their decline."

The incident coincides with finalization of the revised Oregon Mule Deer Management plan. ODFW, agency partners and the general public contributed input on how to revive declining populations. Reducing poaching is one strategy that directly supports the species.

"This is a real problem, and I wish more people would speak up about it," Bowles said, "Mule deer populations are on the decline, and we need to find ways to help them out, including turning in poachers."

Crimes against fish and wildlife often go undetected, because Oregon is a large state and there are not enough OSP F&W Troopers to monitor the landscape. Last year, officials accounted for more than 5,000 animals that were illegally killed- likely a small fraction of the true number.

"We rely on the public to report suspicious activity, including poaching," said Protect Oregon's Wildlife- Turn in Poachers campaign coordinator, Yvonne Shaw. "People can report anonymously and if the report leads to an arrest or citation, they can earn cash rewards or hunter preference points.

Other tips for supporting mule deer populations include not feeding deer, which allows them to lose their fear of people. Feeding also leads to deer congregating in close quarters, which makes them susceptible to spreading diseases. Finally, watch for deer and other wildlife along roads during dusk and dawn hours. Bowles is passionate about supporting mule deer for future generations.

"There are so many things we can do to help mule deer," she said.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the TIP hotline at 1-800-452-7888, email [email protected] or contact OSP dispatch at OSP (677). Please reference case number SP24187072.

The Protect Oregon's Wildlife- Turn In Poachers Campaign educates the public on how to recognize and report poaching. This campaign is a collaboration among state agencies, sportsmen and other conservationists, landowners, and recreationists to engage the public in combatting Oregon's poaching problem.

Bend Man Arrested for Armed Robbery at Marijuana Dispensary

Bend, OR – A local man was arrested on Tuesday afternoon following an armed robbery at Top Shelf Medicine, a marijuana dispensary located on NE Greenwood Avenue. The suspect, 41-year-old Russell Ian Boggess, faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and robbery.

The incident occurred around 4:38 p.m. when Boggess allegedly entered the dispensary, struck an employee in the face, and threatened her with a handgun. Boggess attempted to fire the weapon twice, but it malfunctioned, preventing any shots from being fired. He then took a bag of marijuana and tried to leave the store.

Employees at the dispensary quickly intervened, putting Boggess in a headlock and restraining him until police arrived. Two employees were injured during the struggle. Bend Police officers arrived on the scene within a minute and took Boggess into custody at 4:41 p.m., using a wrap device to restrain him.

Boggess was first taken to the Bend Police Department and then transported to St. Charles Bend for medical clearance. Once cleared, he will be booked into the Deschutes County Jail. He faces charges of attempted murder, first-degree robbery, unlawful use of a weapon, multiple counts of assault, harassment, menacing, interference with a 911 call, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The quick actions of the dispensary employees and the rapid response by Bend Police were crucial in resolving the situation. This incident highlights the risks faced by retail workers and the importance of prompt law enforcement action.

Top Shelf Medicine has not yet released a statement regarding the incident. The Bend Police Department continues to investigate and urges anyone with additional information to come forward.

The Humane Society of the Ochocos

Are you an animal lover looking to make a positive impact on the lives of our furry friends in need? If so, you're in luck! Let me introduce you to a wonderful non-profit organization that is doing incredible work for animals in our community - The Humane Society of the Ochocos (HSO).

Visit their website at https://www.thehso.org/ to learn more about their programs, upcoming events, and how you can get involved. Together, we can make the world a better place for animals in need.

Meet PJ!

Meet PJ, the adorable pup who is looking for her forever home. PJ is a sweet Belgian Malinois mix who is around 2 years old. She loves the water, running in the yard, and playing with her doggie friends. PJ is dog-friendly, but she does have a preference for male dogs. She enjoys going for walks, getting belly rubs, and showering you with hugs and kisses. If you're in search of a hiking buddy who is also down for a Netflix binge session on the couch, PJ is your girl! She can be a bit picky with other dogs, but her best friend Ritz can attest to how playful and loving she is. If you have an active lifestyle and are looking for a furry companion to join you on adventures, consider meeting PJ and giving her the loving home she deserves. So, what do you say? Let's give PJ the chance to be scooped up by someone who will cherish her sweet face and loving nature. Share her picture and help us find her a loving family!

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