In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

📰Bingo benefiting RylieMay Rescue Ranch @ Spider City Brewing

📅Save The Date Section

❄️🏂Oregon WinterFest

🦀Powell Butte Community Center Crab Feed! Yum.

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

📰Deschutes County Courthouse expansion cost increases by $2.9 million

📰🦀New crab feed coming to Powell Butte

⛷️🚵🛶2025 SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle: Design Winner, Early Bird Registration & Mini PPP Contest Announced

📰Regional News

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🔥⛑️Fire & Rescue News

📰Updated: Redmond Woman Dies from Injuries After Linn County Crash

🚨Crime News

💥Dump Truck Crashes Into Redmond Family Dental; Driver Flees Scene

📰Community News

📰Low-cost spay/neuter clinic - Open to the public! Saturday, Feb. 8th

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

🫴💖Local Cause Spotlight

💖🐶RylieMay Rescue Ranch: A Haven for Senior Dogs

📲Sponsors & Partners

😁 MEME of the Day

Good Morning!

 BEND

SANTIAM PASS WEATHER

GOVERNMENT CAMP WEATHER

WILLAMETTE PASS WEATHER

Events Sponsored By

Enjoy Bend Life Real Estate

What’s Up Central Oregon 

February 6th

We are having a bingo night from 6-8pm at SpiderCity Brewing! We will have several rounds of bingo, raffle prizes, and dogs to pet!! Cash preferred, 50/50 split with winner each round!

Coming up - Save the Date

Oregon WinterFest

Join the annual Oregon WinterFest from February 14 to 16, 2025, in the Old Mill District. This family-friendly festival features live music, art installations, delicious cuisine, and a range of entertainment suitable for all ages. Enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere and participate in various activities throughout the weekend.

 LOCAL EVENTS

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Deschutes Public Library Events

Deschutes County Courthouse expansion cost increases by $2.9 million

The multi-million dollar expansion of the Deschutes County Courthouse has gotten even more expensive.

The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners approved a $2.9 million budget increase for the project Wednesday. It brings the total cost to $46.8 million.

Project leaders cited design revisions, unforeseen site conditions, supply chain disruptions and inflation as some of the reasons for the cost increase.

Deschutes County broke ground on the courthouse expansion last May. It's expected to last into the fall.

New crab feed coming to Powell Butte

First annual event offers all-you-can-eat crab and more at local community center

• Jason Chaney - Central Oregonian

All-you-can eat crab in Powell Butte? It’s happening later this month.

Local residents are organizing a crab feed in the small Crook County community. The event will take place at the Powell Butte Community Center, where many special events take place throughout the year.

The crab feed is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 22 and will include two seating times of 12-2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. In addition to the limitless crab, the menu will include Caeser salad, homemade macaroni and cheese and Red Lobster-style cheese biscuits that are also homemade. The crab feed ticket is also good for two drink tickets that are good for beer, wine or soda.

Kathy Eby, one of the event organizers, said the crab feed idea emerged after watching other Central Oregon area communities host successful events.

“We have noticed that Redmond is extremely successful, and they sell out their tickets in two hours,” she said, “and we just feel that we are in a (central) location where it would be a wonderful event to offer people.”

Eby went on to note that she and three other event organizers visited a crab feed in La Pine that left them impressed. Their event has been taking place for more than 20 years.

“It was a great experience for us.”

Tickets for the event are already on sale. They can be purchased online at pb-center.com or by texting or calling 541-408-0256.

“We will have somebody connect with them, so they can buy a ticket,” Eby said.

Tickets cost $60 apiece. Tickets will be on sale until Feb. 18.

“Our net income will go toward continued improvement of the Powell Butte Community Center,” Eby said.

In addition to the fundraising aspect, the hope is the crab feed will become the type of event that brings people together from throughout Crook County.

“This is our first annual and we hope to continue it every year,” Eby said. “We are just really excited to offer this to our community and local area…Everyone can visit and socialize. It’s just a fun time.”

2025 SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle: Design Winner, Early Bird Registration & Mini PPP Contest Announced

The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) and SELCO Community Credit Union have kicked the 47th running of the SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle into high gear with the announcement of the winning design in the annual design contest and the opening of the online early bird registration. In addition, the Mini PPP artwork contest submission window opens on Friday, February 1.

“The lead-up to the Pole Pedal Paddle is a celebration in itself, thanks to our artwork contests and awesome community involvement,” said Amy Tarnow, executive director of MBSEF. “This year’s finalists, all from Central Oregon, show a rich sense of place and community spirit with their submissions. Caya Christiansen’s design shines, capturing the essence of the PPP while reflecting a connection to the event and the heart of our region. We’re also excited to see what creativity emerges in the Mini PPP Art Contest from our youngest artists. And with online registration now open for the main PPP event, the energy and anticipation for this year’s race is really taking off!”

Caya Christiansen Wins Design Contest

The winning submission from Caya Christiansen, 22, is now the official artwork of the 2025 SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, which is scheduled for Saturday, May 17. Christiansen’s design features scenes from three of the seven key SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle legs — alpine skiing down Mt. Bachelor, biking down Century Drive, and canoeing on the Deschutes River — embedded in the words “Pole Pedal Paddle.” Surrounding the title are illustrations of the gear used in each event, highlighting different aspects of the race through both wide and close-up perspectives.

Christiansen, who moved to Bend in eighth grade and graduated from Summit High School in 2021, is currently studying architecture in Munich, Germany.

“Since all the other finalists submitted such amazing pieces of art, I was not expecting to win the contest. But I am over the moon to have won!” said Christiansen, who added that not only did she receive votes from friends across the globe, but that her entry helped her reconnect with friends and former classmates.

Christiansen added that she wanted to “give thanks to my classmate and friend, Anna Könneke, who helped me with the design.”

Christiansen will receive $500 in prize money, a commemorative mug, and official SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle logo wear featuring her winning design. In addition, her artwork will appear on posters, apparel, prizes, and other promotional and event-related materials.

The annual design contest is among the longest-running traditions of the event. Artists of all ages are asked to submit their artwork designs, which are then judged on popularity, uniqueness, and suitability for print by a combination of public voters, MBSEF staff, and SELCO representatives. The selection committee narrowed the submissions to eight finalists, which were then put forth for public vote. Held from Jan. 21 -26, public voting drew more than 1,400 responses.

Online Registration Now Open

Online registration for the 47th SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle is now with early-bird pricing. Produced by and for the benefit of Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation, the annual event is set for May 17 and features race legs including alpine and cross-country skiing, cycling, running, and paddling.

Discounted early bird registration ranges from $55 per person for 12-and-under teams to $125 for elite athletes, and is available through April 13. After the early bird period, prices will range from $80 to $145, respectively. Participants can register as individuals, pairs, or teams.

Held each May, the SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle has been a tradition in Central Oregon since 1976 and annually attracts thousands of competitors from throughout the Northwest and beyond. The SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle is also a critical fundraiser for MBSEF, a Central Oregon nonprofit that creates opportunities through competitive snow sports programs to support athletes in achieving their individual athletic, academic, and personal goals.

SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle organizers are also asking community members to share photos of their experiences in the event, both past and present. These photos will then be used to help promote the 2025 SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle. To submit your photos, please email [email protected].

Mini PPP Art Contest

Submissions for the Mini PPP Art Contest will open on Saturday, Feb. 1. MBSEF invites artists, kindergarten through fifth grade, to express their creativity and get excited about one of Central Oregon’s most cherished local events. The winning design will be featured as the official artwork for the Mini PPP and will be used on shirts and in other advertising. The winning artist will win a free entry into the Mini PPP for themselves and their team.

The Mini PPP, which is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, is an annual team race for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Design submissions should reflect the unique nature of the Mini PPP, which stands for “Playful Peers Persevere.”

To be considered for the contest, designs MUST include the following information:

• SELCO Kids’ Mini PPP

• Bend, Oregon

• 2025

• The letters “MBSEF” somewhere in the design.

Please include artist’s name, age, grade level, teacher, school, phone number, and email of either teacher or parent/guardian with the submission.

Entries must be received by 4pm on Friday, February 21, and can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed or hand-delivered to: Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation, 2765 NW Lolo Drive, Bend, OR 97703.

All submissions that meet basic requirements will be considered by a selection committee made up of MBSEF coaches and staff. The winner will be announced on or before March 1 when registration for Mini PPP officially begins.

For more information about the Mini PPP Art Contest, visit pppbend.com/mini-ppp-art-contest. For more information on the event, visit pppbend.com/mini-ppp.

About Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation:
The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization that creates opportunities through competitive snow sports programs to support Central Oregon athletes in achieving their individual athletic, academic, and personal goals. Its vision is to positively impact the life of every athlete it serves.

About SELCO Community Credit Union:
Founded nearly 90 years ago by a group of fiscally minded teachers, Springfield-based SELCO Community Credit Union today serves more than 150,000 members as one of the largest and longest-standing Oregon-based credit unions. A not-for-profit, federally insured, member-driven financial cooperative with more than $2.7 billion in assets, SELCO provides its member-owners with exceptional rates and low fees on a full range of financial products and services, including banking, mortgages, personal and business loans, investments, and insurance. Membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of the 27 Oregon or eight Washington counties SELCO serves. For more information or to become a member today, stop by one of SELCO’s 15 branches, visit selco.org, or call 800-445-4483.

mbsef.org • pppbend.com • 541-388-0002

 City of Bend Events

Updated: Redmond Woman Dies from Injuries After Linn County Crash

LINN COUNTY, Ore. – Jan. 29, 2025 – A Redmond woman Delores Ann Carroll (76) has died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash that occurred in January on Highway 22 in Linn County.

The crash happened on Jan. 17, 2025, at approximately 11:34 a.m., when a red Cadillac traveling eastbound near Minto Road left the roadway and struck a blue Ford F-150 head-on. Both drivers suffered serious injuries and were transported to a hospital, while a passenger in the Ford was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Cadillac later died at the hospital. Authorities have now confirmed that the driver of the Ford also succumbed to her injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours while the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit investigated. OSP was assisted at the scene by multiple fire departments and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Dump Truck Crashes Into Redmond Family Dental; Driver Flees Scene

Redmond, OR – A dump truck crashed into Redmond Family Dental on Saturday morning, causing significant damage to the building before the driver fled the scene, according to the Redmond Police Department (RPD).

The incident occurred at approximately 9:11 a.m. on February 2, when emergency responders from RPD and Redmond Fire & Rescue (RF&R) were dispatched to 668 SW Rimrock Way following a 9-1-1 report of the crash. Fortunately, the building was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries have been reported.

Authorities are actively searching for the driver of the dump truck, who left the scene before law enforcement arrived. Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information on the driver’s whereabouts to contact non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911.

RPD expressed gratitude to RF&R and Pacific Power for their prompt assistance in handling the incident. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.

Low-cost spay/neuter clinic - Open to the public! Saturday, Feb. 8th

We will be hosting a low-cost spay/neuter clinic at our facility in Bend, Oregon and we have some available spots for community members. Dogs and cats are welcome to register! To sign up, please visit the link here: Register

RylieMay Rescue Ranch:

A Haven for Senior Dogs

Nestled in the heart of Bend, Oregon, RylieMay Rescue Ranch is not just a sanctuary—it’s a second chance at life for senior and special needs dogs. This 501(c)(3) non-profit is on a heartfelt mission to rescue overlooked and vulnerable dogs, offering them a safe and loving environment where they can spend their golden years in peace and comfort.

At RylieMay Rescue Ranch, every wagging tail and gentle nuzzle tells a story of resilience and hope. The dogs who find their way to the ranch come from challenging situations—abandonment, neglect, or simply aging out of homes. Here, they are given more than just shelter; they are given the dignity, care, and affection they deserve.

The ranch operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Every contribution—whether it’s time, money, or resources—directly supports these incredible animals, covering everything from life-saving medical care to nourishing meals.

How You Can Help Bring Hope to Senior Dogs
RylieMay Rescue Ranch thrives on community support, and there are many ways you can get involved:

• Donate: Your financial gifts make a world of difference, helping fund medical treatments, food, and other essentials. Even a small donation can create a big impact in a dog’s life.

• Volunteer: Whether it’s walking dogs, helping with events, or lending a hand with daily care, your time can bring joy and comfort to these furry residents.

• Adopt: For those ready to open their hearts and homes, RylieMay Rescue Ranch facilitates the adoption of senior dogs. Each adoption gives a deserving dog a chance to thrive in a loving home.

Why It Matters
Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters, but at RylieMay Rescue Ranch, they are celebrated for their unique spirit and wisdom. The ranch reminds us all that every dog, regardless of age or ability, deserves to feel cherished and valued.

By supporting RylieMay Rescue Ranch, you’re not just helping animals—you’re creating a ripple of kindness that inspires others to see the beauty in every life, no matter how many years it’s lived. Together, we can ensure that these senior dogs experience love, comfort, and joy in their final chapters.

Visit RylieMay Rescue Ranch’s website to learn more, donate, or get involved. Let’s come together as a community to give these amazing dogs the happy endings they deserve!

 😎 Just sayin

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