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In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia ANSWER

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

🎵🎸🎹Music on the Green Concert Series - Redmond

✈️🎆The Airshow of the Cascades - Madras

🎉New Event Calendar! Central Oregon Local Live!

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

👉How Wildfire Risk Impacts Home Insurance Discussed At Bend Meeting

🚔Redmond Police Conduct Major Traffic Enforcement on Highway 97, Issuing 32 Citations

🎦WATCH: Video shows 3rd Street ARCO attendants swarm suspect fleeing from police

🦌Wildlife Photos Spark Debate Over Proposed Trail Expansion Near Sisters

Central Oregon Fire Info

Updates of Oregon Fires

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🔥⛑️Fire & Rescue News

🏡🔥Redmond Fire & Rescue Contain Structure Fire at Eagle Crest Home

💥Wrong-way DUII driver charged after crashing into semi on Highway 97 south of Sunriver

🚨 Crime News

📰🚨St. Vincent De Paul Executive Arrested for Methamphetamine Distribution Near Schools

🚨Crooked River Ranch shooting suspect in custody after standoff

🚨Bend Man Arrested for Attempted Murder After Severe Beating of Roommate

 📰 Community News

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

😁 MEME of the Day

🌆 On going Events

📲Sponsors & Partners

BEND

REDMOND

Events Sponsored By Enjoy Bend Life Real Estate

What’s Up Central Oregon 

Music on the Green Concert Series - Redmond August 21st

Sam Johnson Park 5:30 PM

Grab a blanket, bring your lawn chairs and introduce your family to an evening that really highlights why so many people enjoy visiting and living in Redmond, Oregon. More than just music, you’ll enjoy tasty local food, drinks, desserts as well as craft vendors. This fun family block party atmosphere has plenty of things to do with the kids and is one of the longest-running community festivals in Central Oregon. Concerts are on alternating Wednesday evenings starting at 5:30PM.  Runaway Fire plays on Aug. 21st.

Runaway Fire

Runaway Fire is shaking up the rock scene with their catchy, melodic tunes and powerful performances. Led by Nashville native and top-tier drummer Ian Shaw, the band features Mike Wilson on vocals and guitar, Marci Allen on keys, and Chase Sylvester on bass. With unique rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and a dynamic stage presence, they’re a must-see act. Catch a live show or support them with a donation!

August 23 - 24th - Madras, Oregon

The Cascade Airshow, held in Madras, Oregon, is a thrilling event featuring aerial performances, classic warbirds, and a vibrant festival atmosphere. Scheduled for August 23-24, 2024, the show includes displays by the US Army Golden Knights, Erickson Aircraft, and a variety of unique aircraft at the Fly-In. Attendees can also enjoy the Les Schwab Car Show, live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities. VIP and chalet tickets offer premium viewing experiences with added amenities.

For more details, visit the Cascade Airshow website.

How Wildfire Risk Impacts Home Insurance Discussed At Bend Meeting

Posted by Heather Roberts KBND

BEND, OR -- Two state lawmakers from central and southern Oregon met in Bend this week with insurance agents and brokers to discuss the impact of wildfire risk on homeowners’ policies. Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang organized the meeting of about 15 people, which also included fire experts and city officials, talking about the issue with Rogue Valley State Senator Jeff Golden and Central Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy.

Chang tells KBND News he wants to lead a statewide effort to make sure Oregonians in high fire-risk areas maintain their homeowners insurance, "We live in a fire prone environment. Insurers are responding to that by withdrawing coverage, increasing premiums. So, we need to acknowledge that we live in a fire-prone environment. But we also need to recognize that there are real things that we can do to reduce the probability of people’s homes being destroyed in a fire." Those steps include reducing fire fuels and creating defensible space. "We need to get our community and our homeowners to do those things," says Chang, "But more importantly, from the perspective of this meeting, we need to get the insurance industry to recognize and give credit for those actions."

Chang says agents told the group they've been forced to raise rates or drop policies because of previous losses, "The insurance rate increases and coverage withdrawals that we’ve witnessed over the last couple of years are not the result of the state wildfire hazard maps.

They are all about the insurance industry really recognizing an increasing risk in our communities across Oregon." He adds, "They really emphasized how much the catastrophic losses from the Labor Day 2020 fires are playing themselves out, financially, right now. I mean, these insurance carriers, they lost millions and millions and millions of dollars."

Mortgage lenders require properties to be insured and Chang says he's heard of instances where policies were dropped after the owner secured a mortgage, forcing the bank to call in the note, and leaveing the owner with a massive bill. 

He hopes to host another meeting before the 2025 legislative session. Chang is pushing for lawmakers to approve a pilot program to certify entire neighborhoods that reduce wildfire fuels and create defensible space. He says it’s not enough for just one or two properties to take precautions, "If a fire finds a suitable place to grow big and nasty on your neighbor’s property, it’s going to catch your house on fire, regardless of how much good work you’ve done." He believes such a program could then be used by insurers to reduce premiums. 

Redmond Police Conduct Major Traffic Enforcement on Highway 97, Issuing 32 Citations

Redmond, OR (August 8, 2024) — The Redmond Police Department conducted a significant traffic enforcement operation on August 8, 2024, targeting Highway 97 near the SW Evergreen Avenue intersection. During the operation, patrol and traffic officers made 101 traffic stops, resulting in 32 citations for various violations. The remaining motorists received warnings and traffic safety reminders.

This focused enforcement effort highlights the department's commitment to traffic safety, particularly in light of statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that show one-third of traffic fatalities are caused by speeding.

“Traffic safety will continue to be a priority for the Redmond Police Department, and motorists traveling in and around the City of Redmond should be mindful of the enforcement efforts of officers,” said Chief Devin Lewis.

The Redmond Police Department employs various strategies to enforce traffic laws, including specific operations like the Highway 97 effort, focused enforcement in problematic areas and school zones, and the use of grant funding to target impaired driving, distracted driving, and seat belt compliance.

The department remains vigilant in its mission to keep Redmond’s roads safe for all travelers.

Wildlife Photos Spark Debate Over Proposed Trail Expansion Near Sisters

Sisters, OR - A trail camera near Sisters captured stunning images of wildlife, including cougars, a black bear, and mule deer, highlighting concerns over the proposed expansion of mountain bike trails in the area. The camera belongs to Adam Bronstein of the Wild Ecosystems Alliance, which opposes the Forest Service's plan to add 54 miles of new non-motorized trails and remove 8 miles, resulting in a net increase of 46 miles. The proposal, part of the Sisters Trail Additions and Replacement project (STAR), aims to enhance user experiences but has raised concerns about the impact on local wildlife habitats.

The Forest Service received public comments on the proposal, which could lead to adjustments before a final decision is made in April 2024, with implementation starting in June. Local stakeholders, including the Sisters Trails Alliance (STA), are involved in the process, emphasizing the need to balance trail expansion with minimizing user conflicts. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife has highlighted potential impacts on deer habitats and wildlife connectivity areas.

Bronstein, advocating for wildlife preservation, warns against turning Sisters into a "wildlife desert" like Bend, urging the Forest Service to consider the environmental costs of recreation expansion. He calls for an Environmental Assessment to explore alternatives for the STAR project.

Full Story Here

Updates of Oregon Fires

New 500-acre fire burning near Culver Sunday

A new fire reported near Culver grew to an estimated 500 acres Sunday night.

Central Oregon Fire Information reported that Fire 675, which was first reported around 1:45 p.m. Sunday, was burning east of Highway 97. Power lines were being threatened. Areas SW 32 and 35 were under a Level 1 "Be Ready" evacuation.

A Type 3 Incident Commander took command of the fire. Air attack and multiple air tankers were assisting ground crews, Central Oregon Fire Info said.

Central Oregon Fire Management Service and Jefferson County engines also attacked the fire.

The cause of the fire was not immediately released.

Link to: Air Quality Index map

Another AQI Map

Link to: Northwest Large Fire Interactive Web Map

Redmond Fire & Rescue Contain Structure Fire at Eagle Crest Home

Redmond, OR (August 17, 2024) — Redmond Fire & Rescue responded to a structure fire early Saturday morning in the Eagle Crest area. The fire, which broke out at a residence located at 1405 Harrier Ct, was reported at approximately 7:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, fire crews observed flames venting through the roof of the home. The fire was quickly traced to the attic space above the master bathroom. Firefighters acted swiftly, stretching hoselines to the interior and launching an aggressive attack to prevent the fire from spreading further. Thanks to their efforts, the damage was confined to a small area in the attic.

The cause of the fire was determined to be a mechanical failure in the bathroom exhaust fan. This incident serves as an important reminder to homeowners: if your bathroom exhaust fan is making unusual noises or is over 10 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it. Regular cleaning to remove dust buildup is also recommended to prevent potential fire hazards.

Redmond Fire & Rescue received assistance from Bend Fire & Rescue and Cloverdale Rural Fire Protection District in managing the incident. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of these teams, the fire was quickly brought under control, minimizing damage to the property.

Wrong-way DUII driver charged after crashing into semi on Highway 97 south of Sunriver; four drivers go to hospital

SUNRIVER, Ore. (KTVZ) – A wrong-way driver on Highway 97 south of Sunriver late Thursday afternoon crashed into an oncoming semi-truck, causing a five-car collision that sent four drivers to the hospital, Oregon State Police and St. Charles officials said Friday. The driver allegedly at fault faces DUII, assault and other charges.

Troopers received several reports around 4:20 p.m. of a Dodge Ram pickup whose driver was driving southbound in the northbound lanes, troopers said.

The pickup crashed into an oncoming semi, causing a five-car collision near milepost 153 that closed both northbound lanes for a few hours.

The wrong-way driver, a 50-year-old man from the Lane County town of Lowell was listed in fair condition Friday at St. Charles Bend, where three other drivers were treated and released, a hospital spokeswoman said.

Troopers conducting a DUII investigation interviewed the victims at the hospital, and a search warrant was granted for a blood draw of the suspect driver.

Due to his hospitalization, the driver was cited in lieu of custody on charges of DUII, third-degree assault, reckless driving and reckless endangering, troopers said. NewsChannel 21 policy is not to name arrested individuals until and unless formal charges are filed.

ODOT's TripCheck said one northbound lane reopened shortly before 7 p.m. The other lane reopened later Thursday night.

Three of the vehicles involved were towed by Blu Line Towing and the other two were towed by Consolidated Towing, OSP said.

The post Wrong-way DUII driver charged after crashing into semi on Highway 97 south of Sunriver; four drivers go to hospital appeared first on KTVZ .

St. Vincent De Paul Executive Arrested for Methamphetamine Distribution Near Schools

Redmond, OR (August 16, 2024) — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit arrested Gary Lee Hewitt, a 58-year-old resident of Redmond, Oregon, following a short-term investigation into his alleged distribution of methamphetamine. Hewitt, who serves as the executive director of St. Vincent De Paul, a local non-profit organization, was taken into custody on August 15, 2024, after detectives executed a search warrant at his home.

According to Sergeant Jason Wall, the investigation revealed that Hewitt was distributing commercial quantities of methamphetamine from his residence, which is located within 1,000 feet of two separate schools in southwest Redmond. The proximity to schools heightened the seriousness of the charges, as Oregon law imposes stricter penalties for drug offenses committed near educational institutions.

The search of Hewitt’s residence was conducted by detectives from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, along with support from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered a significant quantity of methamphetamine, along with scales, packaging materials, and U.S. currency, all indicative of drug distribution activities.

Hewitt was arrested and booked into the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Adult Jail. He faces charges of Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine (ORS 475.894) and Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine within 1,000 Feet of a School (ORS 475.892).

The investigation is ongoing, and further details may be released as they become available.

Crooked River Ranch shooting suspect in custody after standoff, major police call-out; victim taken to hospital

CROOKED RIVER RANCH, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A reported shooting in Crooked River Ranch sparked a standoff with a barricaded suspect and brought a major police and SWAT team call-out Saturday afternoon, ending with a suspect taken into custody, Jefferson County Sheriff Jason Pollock said.

Pollock confirmed online reports of a shooting on Shad Road and that a suspect was barricaded inside a structure. Many officers were on scene, surrounding the structure, and the victim was taken to the hospital. He said online reports of an “active shooter” were unfounded.

The suspect was reported to be in custody at about 4:45 p.m., the sheriff confirmed.

Residents earlier reported seeing a up to 20 or more police vehicles and SWAT units speeding to or gathered at the scene.

Our Kelsey McGee traveled to the scene, and found crime scene tape around the reported shooting scene and law enforcement gathered at the CRR Fire District offices after the incident concluded. No further information was provided

The post Crooked River Ranch shooting suspect in custody after standoff, major police call-out; victim taken to hospital appeared first on KTVZ .

Bend Man Arrested for Attempted Murder After Severe Beating of Roommate

Bend, OR (August 18, 2024) — A Bend man is in custody following a brutal assault on his roommate early Sunday morning. Timothy John Boyd, 66, was arrested after he called 911 to report that he had struck his 58-year-old roommate in the head with a bat.

The incident occurred around 5:03 a.m. on August 18, 2024, at a residence located in the 19000 block of Arrow Wood Drive in Bend. Bend Police officers responded quickly to the scene after Boyd’s call and discovered the victim suffering from severe head injuries. Officers immediately administered medical aid until emergency medical services arrived.

The injured man was rushed to St. Charles Bend, where he remains in the intensive care unit, fighting for his life.

Boyd was taken into custody without incident and was initially transported to the Bend Police Department for questioning. He was later lodged at the Deschutes County Jail on multiple charges, including attempted murder, first-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon.

The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the assault is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.

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