Thank you to everyone who answered the recent Survey - your input was Very helpful! I look forward to bringing you the new Event Newsletter soon! It will be Regional with the different areas listed, then categorized for type of event/s.

I’m hoping to have the first issue by first part of April, I’m having a new logo created and will also be training my “A.I. guy” on the information I will be posting and to finalize the format within the newsletter. The current Event App Central Oregon Local Live will continue as well.

I will keep you Posted! Cheers!

In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 Lots and LOTS of Events

🐕🐩🍻 HSCO Pup Crawl

 🍀🍺🥃Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Bend and Redmond

📅Save The Date Section

🎷🎸🎶2025 Prineville Follies Set for March 21-22

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

 📰Wildfire Fuels Mitigation Project Begins in Deschutes River Woods

 📰Mill Works Pub in Old Mill District closing after 7 years

 📰County Planning Commission invites feedback on proposed changes for temporary hardship dwellings

 📰Mt. Bachelor Plans Northwest Express Upgrades; Forest Service Seeks Feedback

 📰Back and forth: ODOT crews spent nearly half a million dollars on Bend right-of-way homeless camp cleanups last year - KTVZ Story

⚡Power Outages Impacted SE Bend on Friday; Thousands Affected

📰Regional News

📰 Search Continues for Missing 2-Year-Old Dane Paulsen in Siletz, Oregon

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🔥⛑️Fire & Rescue News

⛑️Injured Teen Rescued After Snowmobile Crash Near Elk Lake

⛑️UPDATED Coast Guard works outside its comfort zone to rescue woman from McKenzie River

🚨Crime News

📰Community News

 🌑🌒🌓🌔🌕Wanderlust Tours hosting nighttime snowshoeing and blood moon eclipse watch

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

😁 MEME of the Day

Good Morning!

BEND

SANTIAM PASS WEATHER

GOVERNMENT CAMP WEATHER

WILLAMETTE PASS WEATHER

What’s Up Central Oregon?

The Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO) is hosting its 13th Annual Pup Crawl throughout March 2025, offering a delightful blend of community engagement, craft beverages, and support for local animals in need. This cherished event invites residents and their canine companions to gather at various local breweries, with all proceeds directly benefiting HSCO's mission to care for and advocate for animals in Central Oregon.

Event Details:

• Dates & Times: The Pup Crawl occurs every Friday and Saturday evening in March, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM.

• Locations:

  • Saturday, March 1: Monkless Belgian Ales

  • Friday, March 7: Van Henion Brewing and Bridge 99 (4:30 – 6:30 PM)

  • Saturday, March 8: Bend Brewing

  • Friday, March 14: Crux Fermentation Project

  • Saturday, March 15: Worthy Brewing

  • Friday, March 21: Bevel Craft Brewing

  • Saturday, March 22: Wild Ride Brewing in Redmond

  • Friday, March 28: Sunriver Brewing in Sunriver, Bend Eastside, and Galveston pubs

  • Saturday, March 29: Boneyard Pub

Each venue offers a unique atmosphere, and attendees can enjoy their favorite craft beverages while supporting a worthy cause.

Participation Details:

During each Pup Crawl night, attendees can purchase exclusive HSCO merchandise:

• Logo Pint Glass & One Beverage: $15

• Logo Glass & One Beverage at Three Different Pup Crawl Nights: $30

• Logo Beanie Hat: $20

• Logo Beanie & One Beverage: $30

Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Bend Pet Express and Bend Studio, 100% of the proceeds from these sales directly support HSCO's efforts.

Special Highlights:

This year's Pup Crawl features a new logo designed by Clara Smith, a local Bend artist. Her winning design, inspired by her playful dogs and their love for treats, will be showcased on the Pup Crawl pint glasses, beanies, and promotional materials. Smith expressed her gratitude towards HSCO, having adopted her Australian Cattle Dog, Colt, from the organization five years ago.

About HSCO:

Established in 1961, the Humane Society of Central Oregon is dedicated to strengthening the human-animal bond by compassionately caring for animals and advocating on their behalf. As a socially conscious shelter, HSCO collaborates with community partners to provide resources and services aimed at improving the welfare of all vulnerable animals in the region.

Join the Fun:

The Pup Crawl is a fantastic opportunity for community members to come together, enjoy local brews, and make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the event, HSCO welcomes all to participate and celebrate the spirit of community and compassion.

For more information and updates, visit HSCO's official website or their social media channels.

Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Bend and Redmond

Hydro Flask St. Patrick's Day Dash

Location: Deschutes Brewery, 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM
Description: This family-friendly event offers 10K, 5K, and 1.3-mile courses along the scenic Deschutes River. Participants are encouraged to wear festive green attire, with prizes for best costumes. The Post-Dash Bash features live music, food vendors, and local craft beer.
Link: https://cascaderelays.com/events/st-patricks-day-dash/

 St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Old St. Francis School

Location: 700 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, and Monday, March 17, 2025; various times
Description: Enjoy multiple days of festivities, including live music from bands like Hillstomp and The Ballybogs, roaming performances by the Cascade Highlanders Pipe Band, and special Irish food and drink offerings.

 The Official Lucky's St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl

Location: Starting at JC's Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave, Bend, OR 97703
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025; time to be announced
Description: Join fellow revelers in this festive bar crawl, featuring multiple stops and drink specials at participating bars throughout Bend.

 St. Paddy's Day Shenanigans in Redmond

Location: Various participating businesses in Redmond, OR
Date & Time: Monday, March 17, 2025; times vary by location
Description: Participating businesses in Redmond will offer unique beverages and festivities to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. More info Here
 

 Shamrockin' Good Time at BrightSide Animal Center

Location: 1355 NE Hemlock Ave, Redmond, OR 97756
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Description: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with adoptable pets, live music, food, and family-friendly activities at the BrightSide Animal Center.
 

Please check the provided links for the most up-to-date information and ticket availability.

If you know of any other St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans Please email me the details and I will add it - Thanks [email protected]

Coming up - Save the Date

2025 Prineville Follies Set for March 21-22

The 48th annual Prineville Follies, a beloved community talent showcase, will take place on March 21-22 at Crook County High School. Hosted by the Prineville Music and Theater Boosters, the event features a pre-show at 6 p.m. and performances starting at 7 p.m. in the Eugene Southwell Auditorium. This year’s theme, Under the Neon, embraces a nostalgic 1920s vaudeville and jazz style, with acts including jazz ensembles, piano duets, tap and lyrical dancing, and vocal performances.

At least 27 acts are scheduled, along with fundraising efforts such as a live auction featuring handmade quilts, a fly rod, and a tabletop bar. Raffle tickets for gift baskets will also be available. Proceeds support scholarships for band, choir, and drama students, as well as funding for music and theater program needs.

Tickets are available at Coldwell Banker Sun Country Realty, Prineville Men’s Wear, and at the door. Organizers recommend arriving early to secure seats and enjoy the pre-show jazz band performance.

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Deschutes Public Library Events

Local News…

Wildfire Fuels Mitigation Project Begins in Deschutes River Woods

Deschutes County, OR – Efforts to reduce wildfire risk in the Deschutes River Woods community will get underway next week, as crews begin clearing flammable vegetation as part of a broader mitigation project.

The Deschutes River Woods Wildfire Fuels Mitigation Project, funded through a three-year Community Wildfire Risk Reduction grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM), will focus on removing brush, ladder fuels, and small trees up to six inches in diameter. These fuel sources can contribute to extreme fire behavior, making the area more vulnerable during wildfire season.

The work zone spans BNSF Railroad and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) lands between Highway 97 and Cheyenne Road, extending from north of Baker Road to the Forest Service boundary. No private residences or public properties will be impacted. Crews will continue work through the spring, pausing when fire season begins or when conditions become too dry. Operations will resume in the fall once fire danger subsides.

Deschutes River Woods has been identified as a high-risk area for extreme wildfire behavior. By treating 156 acres of wildfire fuels, the project aims to enhance emergency access for first responders and residents while also promoting healthier vegetation and wildlife habitat.

Preparation for the mitigation work began in Fall 2024, with a community wildfire preparedness presentation hosted by Bend Fire & Rescue. The event included support from Project Wildfire, OSFM, the Oregon Department of Forestry, the U.S. Forest Service, Think Wild, OSU Extension, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and Discover Your Forest.

“This project is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to protect Deschutes County residents from the growing threat of wildfires,” said Roger Johnson, CEO of Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2. “Deschutes River Woods was selected due to its high volume of wildland fuels and overall wildfire risk. We’re excited to work with ODOT and BNSF Railroad to make a meaningful impact on fire prevention and community resiliency.”

Contractor Burnbot, Inc. will carry out the work using low-noise remote mastication equipment to minimize disruption for residents. Safety remains a top priority, with crews maintaining an active fire watch and keeping a Type 6 engine on standby as temperatures rise.

Local project staff will notify residents in advance of the work and remind them to keep pets at a safe distance. Community members with questions can contact Bend Fire & Rescue at 541-322-6300 for more information.

Mill Works Pub in Old Mill District closing after 7 years

BEND, Ore. -- The Old Mill District in Bend is losing another bar and restaurant.

Mill Works Pub announced on Instagram it will be closing on March 15 after seven years in business. The announcement said the pub's lease is coming to an end and that the owners have made the decision to close their doors and move on to new adventures.

Old Mill District Marketing Director Beau Eastes said a new restaurant will move into the space as soon as May, but did not say which one.

Eastes also said a restaurant is going into the 3,000 square feet that borders Center Plaza. Again, he did not say who it was.

Eastes also confirmed The Gap has downsized and reopened Wednesday. And he said a tenant has been lined up to take over the former Victoria’s Secret space, but did not say who.

County Planning Commission invites feedback on proposed changes for temporary hardship dwellings

The Deschutes County Planning Commission invites property owners to attend a public hearing on Thursday, March 13 as it reviews proposed changes to the requirements for temporary hardship dwellings.

Under Deschutes County Code (DCC), Title 18, property owners may obtain a temporary use permit for secondary dwellings on their property if they are used as housing that allows a relative to live independently while receiving care for a medical condition. Secondary dwellings include Recreational Vehicles (RVs), manufactured homes, and existing buildings.   

The Planning Commission’s main objectives for amending the code are to make the local requirements more consistent with state rules and statutes, and to make the review process of hardship dwelling applications more cohesive across all county zones. Notable changes include:

• Reorganizing the content for easier reading

• Updating outdated references

• Clarifying that hardship dwellings can be used for both the elderly (“aged”), as well as individuals with a medical condition diagnosed by a healthcare professional (“infirmed”)

• Allowing the use of existing buildings for hardship dwellings

• Clarifying that a hardship dwelling can be the only second dwelling on the property

• Changing the renewal requirement from every year to every two years

• Listing the allowable use in all permissible zones for better clarity

The public hearing will be held during the Planning Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, March 13, at 5:30 p.m. at the Deschutes Services Building, 1300 NW Wall St. in Bend. Property owners are invited to learn more about the proposed amendments and provide their feedback in person, or virtually. The meeting agenda and virtual log in information can be found at www.deschutes.org/meetings

For more information visit the project website.

Mt. Bachelor Plans Northwest Express Upgrades; Forest Service Seeks Feedback

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Mt. Bachelor is seeking U.S. Forest Service approval of a future modernization of its Northwest Express chairlift, and the agency said Friday it’s seeking public comments about those plans.

The Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District of the Deschutes National Forest is initiating environmental analysis for the work, which includes replacing the lift’s electric drive components and safety switches, as well as replacing two operator shacks and increasing chair storage.

The high-speed quad-chair lift is the resort’s longest, at 8,377 feet, and rises 2,365 feet from bottom to top, a ride estimated at 8 1/2 minutes. Its electric motor was rebuilt in the summer of 2023.

The project web page is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=67446

In his scoping letter, District Ranger Kevin Stock said they are seeking comments by March 25.

A Forest Service decision on the proposal is expected in June, with work possibly starting a year later.

Anyone wishing to obtain additional information on the projects can contact Kellie Roussos by email at
[email protected].

Power Outages Impacted SE Bend on Friday; Thousands Affected

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – About 1,300 Pacific Power customers in southeast Bend lost power for a time Friday morning, shortly after Central Electric Cooperative restored power to about 8,000 homes, schools, and businesses in east and southeast Bend, ending an outage that lasted several hours for many.

"Our crews reported that a crane impacted one of our lines," Pacific Power Senior Communications Specialist Simon Gutierrez told KTVZ News.

While the utility's initial estimate projected power restoration by 1:30 p.m., Gutierrez said it was restored at 10:47 a.m., after about 45 minutes.

The outage affected many businesses and busy intersections, knocking out traffic signals and creating four-way stop situations, leading to major traffic backups at locations like Third Street and Greenwood Avenue.

The outage coincidentally occurred just as Central Electric crews finished restoring service after a larger, longer outage left thousands without power for several hours.

"We lost the transmission line feeding all the Bend-area substations shortly before 5:00 a.m., leaving approximately 8,000 members without power," Brent Ten Pas, CEC's vice president of member and public relations, told KTVZ News.

"Crews patrolled the lines and found insulators had broken off a power pole in southeast Bend," Ten Pas said. "They isolated and brought the other substations back online, restoring power to approximately 3,000 members."

By 10 a.m., crews had replaced the broken insulators and restored power to all members in southeast Bend.

The outage occurred near the co-op’s Knott Pit substation, and while many had their power restored before 6 a.m., thousands had to wait longer.

By 10 a.m., the CEC outage map indicated only a few customers remained without power.

Bend-La Pine Schools notified parents that affected schools operated on normal schedules and remained open. Caldera High School and High Desert Middle School had their power restored by about 9:30 a.m.

Regional News…

Search Continues for Missing 2-Year-Old Dane Paulsen in Siletz, Oregon

The search for two-year-old Dane Paulsen, who went missing on March 1, 2025, from his front yard in Siletz, Oregon, has entered its second week. Despite extensive efforts by authorities and community volunteers, Dane has not yet been found.

Incident Overview

Dane was last seen around 4:25 p.m. on March 1, playing in the front yard of his family's home, located less than 100 feet from the Siletz River. His parents reported him missing shortly thereafter, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement.

Search Efforts

Since Dane's disappearance, multiple agencies, including the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, FBI, and trained search and rescue teams, have worked tirelessly to locate him. The search has covered nearly 700 acres and over 340 miles of land, water, and airspace. Authorities have employed drones, K-9 units, and searchers on foot, while specialized trackers have analyzed potential movement patterns.

One of the primary areas of focus has been the Siletz River, given its proximity to where Dane was last seen. Underwater sonar technology and remotely operated vehicles equipped with cameras have been deployed to explore the river's depths. As of March 9, approximately 14 miles of the river have been searched, but no significant evidence has been found.

Community Involvement

The disappearance has drawn an outpouring of support from the Siletz community and beyond. Hundreds of volunteers have assisted in search efforts, distributing flyers, checking rural properties, and providing meals and support for search teams. Law enforcement has urged the public to avoid the immediate search zones near the Paulsen residence to allow trained personnel to operate without disruption.

Current Status and How to Help

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office has confirmed there is no evidence suggesting foul play in Dane's disappearance, and the search remains ongoing. Officials are asking anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office tip line at 541-265-0669.

As the days pass, the resolve to find Dane remains strong, with dedicated search teams continuing their work and a community holding onto hope for his safe return.

 City of Bend Events

Fire & Rescue News…

Injured Teen Rescued After Snowmobile Crash Near Elk Lake

Deschutes County, OR – A teenage snowmobile rider was airlifted to the hospital Saturday evening after a serious crash near Elk Lake Loop, south of the Sunset View Day Use Area.

The 14-year-old girl from Lake Oswego lost control of her snowmobile, veered off-trail, and collided with a tree, sustaining significant injuries. Deputies from the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) responded to the scene at approximately 3:53 p.m., along with nine Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers specializing in snowmobile operations and medical assistance.

While en route, responders were informed that the girl had briefly lost consciousness, prompting the immediate dispatch of an AirLink helicopter for evacuation. However, the rugged terrain made an on-site landing impossible. SAR teams quickly identified and prepared a landing zone along nearby Trail 5 (GPS 43.9711, -121.7979) to facilitate the rescue.

Two Sheriff's Office SAR paramedics and two AirLink flight nurses stabilized the patient before transporting her 1.6 miles via a specialized SAR Snowbulance to the waiting helicopter. At 6:44 p.m., she was safely loaded onto the aircraft and flown to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend for further treatment.

Authorities have not released additional details about her condition. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office reminds all snowmobilers to exercise caution, stay on designated trails, and ride within their skill levels to prevent accidents in remote and hazardous terrain.

Crime News…

Community News…

Wanderlust Tours hosting nighttime snowshoeing and blood moon eclipse watch

A total lunar eclipse and blood moon will be visible Thursday night into the early hours of Friday morning.

Wanderlust Tours is celebrating with a snowshoe tour in the Cascades. The adventure includes snowshoeing under the glow of the full moon from 7:30 until 11 p.m. Thursday night.

The trek heads east for viewing of the eclipse over a backdrop of sage and juniper from 11:00 p.m. to 12:45 a.m.

The snowshoe adventure alone is $120 and the eclipse viewing is $40. That includes gear, transportation hot cocoa and treats from Sparrow Bakery. Book at this link.

 😎 Just sayin

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