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📰Beloved Bend Ski Coach Dies in Mount Bailey Avalanche
Issue #306
I am working hard behind the scenes to get the new Events Newsletter off the ground! I thought I’d reach out to my loyal readers and get your feedback on a possible name!
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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
🎷🎸🎶2025 Prineville Follies Set for March 21-22
📅Save The Date Section
📰Local News - What’s a Happening?
📰Bend man known in youth skiing community dies in avalanche near Diamond Lake
🥁Bend Fire Pipes & Drums all set for annual St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl
📰New Pacific Power Operations Center in Bend unites offices, also will train line crews from across the region
📰Sisters picks 2 finalists for new roundabout art; public asked to weigh in
📰Regional News
🚧 Road Closures & Construction
🔥⛑️Fire & Rescue News
🚨Crime News
📰Community News
📰Camp Fire Central Oregon hosts 'Absolutely Incredible Kid Day' celebration
Have some news or know of news for our Community News Segment - share it with C.O. Local Buzz
😁 MEME of the Day
The History of St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17, honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While today the holiday is associated with parades, green beer, and lively celebrations, its origins are deeply rooted in Irish history, culture, and religious tradition.
Who Was St. Patrick?
St. Patrick was born in Roman Britain in the late 4th or early 5th century. At around 16 years old, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. After several years of captivity, he escaped, eventually becoming a Christian missionary. He later returned to Ireland, spreading Christianity and converting much of the Irish population.
One of the most famous legends about St. Patrick is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland—though scholars believe this is a metaphor for his efforts to eliminate pagan beliefs rather than an actual historical event. He is also credited with using the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, to explain the concept of the Christian Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
How St. Patrick’s Day Became a Holiday
St. Patrick died on March 17, around 461 AD, and over time, this date became an important religious feast day in Ireland. The day was recognized by the Catholic Church as a holy day of obligation, meaning Irish Catholics were expected to attend Mass and honor their patron saint.
For centuries, St. Patrick’s Day was a solemn religious occasion in Ireland. Pubs were even closed by law until the 1970s to keep the focus on prayer rather than partying. However, in the 20th century, the holiday evolved into a broader celebration of Irish heritage and culture.
St. Patrick’s Day in America
Ironically, some of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day traditions we see today—including massive parades and large-scale public celebrations—did not start in Ireland but in the United States. Irish immigrants, particularly in cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago, helped transform St. Patrick’s Day into a grand cultural festival.
The first known St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City in 1762, organized by Irish soldiers serving in the British army. Over time, the parades grew into major annual events, and cities across the U.S. embraced the holiday. Today, New York’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is the largest in the world.
Another famous American tradition is dyeing the Chicago River green, a custom that began in 1962 when city workers used a harmless dye to honor the holiday.
Modern St. Patrick’s Day Traditions
Today, St. Patrick’s Day is widely celebrated across the world, regardless of Irish heritage. Some of the most popular traditions include:
Wearing green: This custom stems from Irish nationalism and the idea that green represents Ireland’s lush landscape.
Shamrocks and Leprechauns: While the shamrock is tied to St. Patrick’s teachings, leprechauns come from Irish folklore. The mischievous, bearded fairies were originally depicted wearing red, but they’ve since become associated with the holiday’s green theme.
Parades and Festivals: Cities worldwide host St. Patrick’s Day parades, celebrating Irish music, dance, and culture.
Traditional Irish Food: Many people enjoy dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Irish soda bread on St. Patrick’s Day.
Global Celebrations
While the United States, Ireland, and Canada are well-known for their St. Patrick’s Day festivities, countries like Australia, Japan, Argentina, and even Russia have embraced the holiday. In Ireland, celebrations have evolved into a multi-day festival with concerts, street performances, and fireworks.
From Saint to Celebration
What started as a religious feast day for a 5th-century missionary has grown into a global celebration of Irish heritage. Whether through religious observance, community parades, or simply wearing green, St. Patrick’s Day continues to be a day of joy, culture, and tradition around the world.
Sláinte! 🍀
Good Morning!
Mt Bachelor Top of Cloudchaser 03.17.25
Top of Outback 03.17.25
BEND
SANTIAM PASS WEATHER
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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]
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.
Coming up - Save the Date
LOCAL EVENTS
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Local News…
Bend man known in youth skiing community dies in avalanche near Diamond Lake
Central Oregon Daily News
BEND, Ore. -- A Bend man well known in the local youth skiing community died Thursday after being caught in an avalanche on Mount Bailey near Diamond Lake. He is the third person from Bend to die in an avalanche in the last month.
Mt Bailey Response
Brian Roberts
Brian Thomas Roberts, 50, who was cat skiing with a group of people through a service with Diamond Lake Resort, was caught in an avalanche at around 3:45 p.m. The other skiers were able to quickly dig Roberts out. Two nurses tried to save Roberts, but he succumbed to his injuries in the remote area.
The group was able to navigate their way back to the nearest snowmobile trail where first responders helped the others who were injured in the slide. One member of the group had a puncture wound from a branch or ski pole.
Roberts death comes less than a month after Terry and Renee Skejersaa, also well-known in the skiing community, died in an avalanche near Broken Top on Feb. 17.
The Roberts family released a statement calling him "the kindest soul - adventurous, loving and bigger than life" and an "amazing father and husband."
He was a coach for Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Federation, sharing a passion for skiing with young skiers. He skied for more than 40 years and was a World Cup contender. But being a dad to his 11-year-old daughter was his greatest calling and he was married to his wife, Heather, for 13 years.
The family added that Heather was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and asks that the public keep her in their thoughts.
A GoFundMe account has been created to support the Roberts family during this difficult time.
The family released this statement.
Brian’s family has suffered an unimaginable loss. Brian was an expert skier of 40+ years, a beloved MBSEF instructor, a champion ski racer and world cup contender. His love for the Central Oregon Cascades was unmatched, and he had unwavering passion for teaching young kids the love of the mountains and outdoors. But his most special child was his own - Brian leaves behind his treasured 11-year old daughter and his beautiful wife of 13 years. His role as “dad” was his greatest calling. As you release his name to the world tonight, you need to know he was so much more than a name, He was the kindest soul - adventurous, loving and bigger than life. He was an amazing father and husband, a steward of the mountains and the most loyal of friends. He will be deeply and painfully missed. We ask that you keep his wife Heather in your loving thoughts tonight as she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and now has to fight that journey on her own. We are overcome with grief in the unfairness of it all and hope Brian’s memory is held tightly in the hearts of those who loved and adored him.
Bend Fire Pipes & Drums all set for annual St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl
It wouldn't be St. Patrick's Day without bagpipes. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Bend Fire Pipes and Drums' Bar Crawl.
On Monday, the sounds of traditional Celtic music will fill the bars of Bend. They'll start at 1 p.m. at the Midtown Yacht Club and then move over to Boneyard Brewery by 4. At 4:45, they'll march downtown and begin playing at bars as they pass them.
Rain or shine, nothing will keep them from piping up some St. Patrick's Day spirits.
Mike Baxter, Pipe Major of Bend Fire Pipes and Drums, says whatever the temperature, "We'll be OK physically. We wear a lot of wool, we wear a lot of sweatshirts and things. The bagpipes, surprisingly, since they're so popular in Scotland, they don't really work that great in the cold, so we're going to do our best to keep them going. We'll try to keep them, at the right temperature, but yeah, they may be a little finicky this year."
Their last stop is around 8:30 p.m.. That'll be at Sidelines Sportsbar & Grill. They like to end the night with a big hurrah and go out on a high note, so you might want to catch that one.
Bend Fire Pipes and Drums also includes first responders and paramedics from all across Central Oregon.
New Pacific Power Operations Center in Bend unites offices, also will train line crews from across the region
Line crews from Yreka, California training on live electrical lines
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Pacific Power's brand-new Bend operations center is now open, combining three existing Bend facilities into one state-of-the-art location.
The utility says the move improves efficiency, but it also includes a training facility where line crews from across the region will be able to practice on power lines.
A ribbon-cutting and flag-raising ceremony took place to mark completion of the $40 million facility, located on NE Cooley Road.
Pacific Power President Ryan Flynn said, "It's 19 acres. It consolidates three separate locations we had. We're excited for a safer community, safer customer experience, more safer for our employees as well."
"This is where our line crews primarily are based out of, our meter readers - all of our operational personnel are here at this location."
The facility currently has about 75 employees.
Sisters picks 2 finalists for new roundabout art; public asked to weigh in
SISTERS, Ore. -- Sisters has announced the finalists for a roundabout art installation at the Highway 20 and Locust Street intersection, and is asking the public for its input.
The artwork will be on display from March 15-31 at the Sisters Public Library and April 2-4 at Sisters High School.
Here are descriptions of each piece, provided by the city. Installation is expected in the fall.
Karen Yank’s piece features the Three Sister’s snowcapped peaks with a Red-Tailed Hawk soaring over this landscape. “Pride of Place” utilizes a circle, to reflect the horizon where the earth meets the sky, the circle also symbolizes a lasso referencing Sisters Rodeo and the long history of ranching in this unique location positioned between the Cascade Mountains and the High Desert. Photos can be found in the slideshow below.
Dan Chen’s work “Through Time” consists of three interconnected circular sculptures representing the themes of past, present, and future, complemented by natural elements. An eagle flying across the highest circle sculpture will symbolize resilience and forward vision. These sculptures will integrate with the surrounding landscape to create a cohesive, meaningful representation of the Sisters community's rich history and vibrant future. Photos can be found in the slideshow below.
Regional News…
BendRedmond | Deschutes County |
Fire & Rescue News…
Crime News…
Community News…
Camp Fire Central Oregon hosts 'Absolutely Incredible Kid Day' celebration
Camp Fire Central Oregon invited the community to its annual Absolutely Incredible Kid Day (AIK Day) celebration on Sunday at The Pavilion in Bend.
The event featured free ice skating for the first 200 kids, birthday cake, and various activities to honor youth. This year’s celebration also marks Camp Fire's 115th anniversary nationwide.
While the national AIK Day is celebrated on the third Thursday of March, Camp Fire moved its local celebration to the Sunday before to make it more accessible.
The celebration also included a swag raffle, crafts, robotics, and new games unique to Camp Fire’s programs. Staff were available to connect with families and share information about upcoming camps and programs.
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