Central Oregon News: Growth, Challenges & Innovations From the Editor Welcome to this edition of Central Oregon Local Buzz. This week, we delve into topics affecting our community's development and challenges, with highlights on job reductions in Bend, leadership initiatives, and shifts in local dining and entertainment. 📰Local News Featured 🏢 Les Schwab Cuts 70 Headquarters Jobs in Bend Les Schwab Tire Centers has eliminated approximately 70 positions at its Bend headquarters as part of a company-wide restructuring effort. Company leaders said the move is intended to better align resources with store operations, customer support, and future growth as the tire retailer continues its rapid expansion across the western United States. Employees affected by the layoffs are being offered severance packages and extended benefits.
The company emphasized that the workforce reduction is not tied to short-term financial challenges. Over the past three years, Les Schwab has expanded by more than 100 locations across four new states and now operates more than 600 stores with roughly 9,000 employees. The company plans to open an additional 30 locations this year. Following the restructuring, about 430 employees will remain at the Bend headquarters.
Founded in Prineville in 1952 and now headquartered in Bend, Les Schwab remains one of Central Oregon’s most recognizable employers and one of the largest independent tire retailers in the country. Read more → 🚨Crime News ⚖️ Warm Springs Man Sentenced in Child Sexual Abuse Case A Warm Springs man has been sentenced to more than four years in federal prison after admitting to sexually abusing two minors during a sleepover on the Warm Springs Reservation.
Desmond Ray Florez, 34, was sentenced Tuesday to 50 months in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. According to court records, the abuse occurred in April 2025 while the children were staying overnight at Florez’s residence. Investigators later learned that one of the victims had also been abused by Florez several years earlier.
A federal grand jury indicted Florez in July 2025 on charges of sexual abuse of a minor and sexual abusive contact. He pleaded guilty to both charges in February 2026. The case was investigated by the Warm Springs Police Department and the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative. Read more → ⛰️Bend 🎓 Bend High Students Say Farewell to Historic Building The final day of school at Bend Senior High carried extra meaning this year as students said goodbye to portions of the school’s longtime campus that are slated for demolition as part of the ongoing rebuild project. For many students, the day marked the end of an era, with the school’s Commons area serving as a final gathering place filled with memories spanning generations of Lava Bears.
Students reflected on years of school traditions, community events, and personal milestones tied to the aging building. As classes ended for the summer, Principal Christopher Reese delivered a farewell message over the school intercom before playing "Don't You (Forget About Me)," a fitting tribute to the campus that has served Bend students for decades. Construction on the new Bend High campus continues, with a portion of the modernized facility expected to open this fall while work carries on through the next school year. Read more →
🌟 Grant Helps Develop Central Oregon’s Next Generation of Leaders A new grant from OnPoint Community Credit Union will help emerging professionals in Central Oregon build leadership skills and strengthen the region’s workforce. OnPoint recently awarded $3,500 to the BendNEXT Foundation, funding leadership development scholarships for 10 up-and-coming leaders in the area. The scholarships will provide access to professional development workshops, networking opportunities, and year-round mentorship programs.
The funding comes as many Central Oregon employers continue to face workforce challenges tied to housing affordability and childcare shortages. BendNEXT leaders say the program is designed to support talent retention and help cultivate future community and business leaders. The grant is part of OnPoint’s Community Grants & Giving program, which supports organizations working to strengthen Oregon communities through education, workforce development, and economic opportunity. Read more → ✈️Redmond 🍕 Grace & Hammer Adds Live Music, New Menu Options Under Local Ownership One of Redmond’s favorite pizza destinations is expanding its offerings just months after coming under new local ownership. Grace & Hammer, located in a historic 1912 church building in downtown Redmond, was purchased earlier this year by a group of longtime Central Oregon residents who stepped in to preserve both the restaurant and the landmark building. While much of the staff has remained in place, several longtime employees have moved into leadership roles as the business begins its next chapter.
New additions include live music performances on the restaurant’s outdoor deck beginning in July, along with plans for open mic events. The restaurant is also expanding its menu with additional gluten-free appetizers and entrées prepared separately from its wood-fired oven. Owners say their goal is to build on the restaurant’s established reputation while continuing to create a gathering place that reflects the community. Grace & Hammer first opened in 2019 and has become a popular stop for both locals and visitors seeking artisan pizza, craft beverages, and a unique dining atmosphere. Read more →
✈️ RDM Reveals New Dining Lineup for Expanded Terminal Travelers passing through Redmond Municipal Airport will soon have more local flavors to enjoy. Airport officials announced that Tailwind Hospitality has been selected to operate food and beverage concessions in the airport’s expanded terminal, with local favorites Sisters Coffee, Bend Brewing Company, and Sparrow Bakery among the first confirmed tenants. Peet’s Coffee & Tea and a grab-and-go market will also be part of the new dining area.
The announcement comes as RDM continues work on its largest terminal expansion project ever. Scheduled for completion in November 2027, the project will add more than 80,000 square feet of space, over 6,000 square feet of concessions, seven new jet bridges, expanded waiting areas, additional restrooms, enhanced accessibility features, and a public art program. Airport leaders say the goal is to create a travel experience that better reflects Central Oregon while accommodating the region’s continued growth in air travel. Read more → 🪶Madras 🏗️ Madras Officials Address Data Center Rumors Madras city leaders are working to clear up rumors circulating online about a potential data center project in Jefferson County. Interim City Administrator David Clyne stated that the City of Madras is not currently considering a data center proposal and that no related actions are scheduled before the City Council.
The clarification comes just weeks after the City of La Pine rejected a proposed 20-megawatt data center following significant public opposition. In a public statement, Clyne acknowledged growing community concerns about large-scale developments and the impacts they can have on water resources, power supply, infrastructure, land use, and overall quality of life. He emphasized that if any future project requiring city approval were proposed, it would go through the appropriate public review process. City leaders are encouraging residents to stay informed, participate constructively, and rely on verified information rather than social media speculation.
Read more → 🐎Prineville 🚰 OHA: Contaminants Found in Crook County Wells May Pose Health Risks The Oregon Health Authority has released a draft health consultation warning that contaminants found in dozens of private wells north of Prineville could pose health risks for residents. The report is based on testing conducted in 2024 and 2025 and found that many wells contained elevated levels of arsenic, copper, lead, manganese, nitrate, and coliform bacteria. While some contaminants primarily affect the taste, smell, or appearance of water, others may increase the risk of health problems when consumed over time.
State health officials emphasized that risks vary from well to well and encouraged private well owners to review their individual test results and consult with experts if they have concerns. The findings are part of an ongoing investigation into groundwater contamination in the area, where residents have raised concerns for several years about water quality and potential impacts on their families. OHA is accepting public comments on the draft report through August 17 and continues to recommend that private well owners test their water every one to three years. Read more →
🌲 Thousands of New Trees Planted in Crazy Creek Burn Area A major reforestation effort is helping restore parts of the Ochoco National Forest damaged by last year’s devastating wildfire season. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Ochoco National Forest recently completed a project that planted and protected more than 74,000 ponderosa pine seedlings across 424 acres burned in the 2024 Crazy Creek Fire.
The project marks the first time a reforestation effort on Oregon federal forestland has been completed through a state-administered planting contract under the Good Neighbor Authority, a partnership that allows state and federal agencies to work together on forest restoration. ODF crews handled project planning, contract administration, and field oversight, while the U.S. Forest Service supplied the seedlings and protective materials. Each tree was fitted with protective netting to help prevent damage from elk and deer.
The planting effort builds on a much larger restoration project that reforested roughly 3,000 acres across the Crazy Creek, Rail Ridge, and Wiley Flat fire areas with more than 500,000 seedlings. Officials say the partnership demonstrates how state and federal agencies can accelerate wildfire recovery and improve the long-term health and resilience of Central Oregon forests.
🛏️ Crook County Gets Free Year-Round Mattress Recycling Site Crook County residents now have a free, permanent option for recycling old mattresses and box springs. The Prineville Recycling Depot, located on North Main Street, has joined Oregon’s growing Bye Bye Mattress program, becoming the first year-round mattress recycling drop-off site in Crook County and the fourth in Central Oregon. Residents can drop off mattresses and box springs at no cost during regular business hours.
The program is designed to keep bulky mattresses out of landfills and reduce illegal dumping in parks, roadways, and natural areas. Mattresses collected through the program are broken down into recyclable materials such as steel, wood, foam, and fibers, which are then used in new products. Oregon’s Mattress Stewardship Act, passed in 2022, funds the program through a $22.50 recycling fee collected when new mattresses and box springs are purchased in the state. Officials say the expanding network of collection sites is making recycling easier while helping conserve landfill space and natural resources. Read more → 🌲Sisters ⚖️ Lawsuits Filed Over Bull Escape at 2024 Sisters Rodeo Two spectators injured during the highly publicized bull escape at the 2024 Sisters Rodeo have filed lawsuits seeking a combined $11.55 million in damages. The incident involved a bull named Party Bus that jumped a fence during the rodeo and ran through a crowded concession area, with videos of the event quickly spreading across social media and national news outlets.
One lawsuit, filed by Kristin Wert, seeks $2.3 million and alleges she suffered injuries to her arms, legs, shoulders, and a concussion that led to ongoing migraines, dizziness, nausea, and emotional distress. A second lawsuit filed by Bend resident Allison Hickey seeks $9.25 million, claiming the bull landed on her, causing a broken arm, shoulder injuries, and damage to her leg. Both lawsuits name the Sisters Rodeo, Corey and Lange Rodeo Co., and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association as defendants. Hickey’s complaint also alleges the rodeo later profited from the incident through marketing, advertising, and merchandise related to the event.
Following the incident, Party Bus was barred from future rodeo competitions and returned to Washington state. Read more →
🤠 Sisters Rodeo Brings Crowds — and Traffic Delays If traffic through Sisters seems heavier than usual this week, the Sisters Rodeo is likely the reason. Organizers estimate that between 2,500 and 3,000 vehicles arrive for each performance of the annual event, creating backups along Highway 20 and through town as thousands of visitors make their way to the rodeo grounds.
To help manage the congestion, traffic crews are using flaggers, cones, and temporary traffic control measures before and after each show. Organizers also adjust traffic patterns when performances end to move vehicles out more efficiently. For those looking to avoid the hassle of parking, free shuttle buses are running from the Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) facility beginning two hours before each performance and continuing into the evening. Despite the delays, many visitors say the rodeo remains one of Central Oregon’s must-see summer traditions and is well worth the wait. Read more →
⚖️ Black Butte Ranch Reaches $5.5 Million Settlement in Abuse Lawsuit Black Butte Ranch has agreed to a $5.5 million settlement to resolve a lawsuit filed by 14 former employees who alleged years of sexual abuse, harassment, and misconduct by a longtime supervisor at Robert’s Pub. The lawsuit claimed Glenn Michael Woosley used his position of authority to repeatedly harass and abuse younger employees, including several who were minors at the time. Plaintiffs also alleged that management and human resources personnel failed to take appropriate action despite being aware of concerns.
The case began in 2024 with nine plaintiffs and later expanded to 14 former employees seeking damages. Woosley previously pleaded no contest to criminal charges involving sexual abuse and harassment of young workers and was terminated from his position at the Ranch. According to reports, Black Butte Ranch's insurance coverage was insufficient to fully fund a settlement, leading homeowners to approve additional contributions to help resolve the case. Ranch officials said the agreement represents an important step toward healing and closure for the former employees and the broader community. Read more → 🏘️Real Estate 🔥 OSU Shares Tips for Creating Fire-Resistant Landscapes With wildfire season approaching, Oregon State University Extension Service is encouraging homeowners to think beyond defensible space and create landscapes that are both attractive and fire resistant. A newly released publication, Fire-Resistant Plants for Home Landscapes, highlights more than 150 plant varieties that can be used in fire-wise yard designs while still maintaining curb appeal and personal style. The guide was authored by Central Oregon horticulturist Amy Jo Detweiler and is aimed at helping homeowners make informed landscaping choices in wildfire-prone areas.
The publication emphasizes that fire-resistant landscaping is about more than just selecting the right plants. Proper spacing, ongoing maintenance, removing dead vegetation, and creating separation between plants with gravel, rock, or other noncombustible materials can all help reduce wildfire risk around homes. Extension experts say thoughtful landscape design can improve a property's resilience while still providing color, texture, and beauty throughout the year. Read more →
🪵 Terrebonne Family Business Builds Log Homes Across the Nation What started as a passion for handcrafted log homes has grown into a thriving family business serving clients across the country. Based in Terrebonne, Richardson Log Homes is owned and operated by Lance and Rebecca Richardson, who have built their reputation on craftsmanship, integrity, and personalized service. The company specializes in building and restoring custom log homes, combining traditional techniques with decades of experience to create one-of-a-kind homes for their clients.
The Richardsons say their focus goes beyond construction, working closely with homeowners throughout the planning and building process to help bring their vision to life. Family remains at the center of the business, with a commitment to quality workmanship and long-term relationships with customers. From rustic cabins to large custom homes, Richardson Log Homes has become a recognized name in the log home industry while remaining firmly rooted in Central Oregon. Read more →
🏡 Central Oregon Housing Market Shows Steady Summer Momentum Central Oregon's housing market continues to hold steady as the summer selling season ramps up. According to the latest market report from Reed Melton, inventory growth is beginning to slow, suggesting the region may be approaching its seasonal peak in available homes. Mortgage rates remain elevated, averaging 6.67% for a 30-year fixed loan, but buyer activity has remained surprisingly resilient across the region.
In Deschutes County, active listings increased slightly to 1,376 homes, while pending sales climbed to 88 for the week. Many sellers are still adjusting prices before securing buyers, with nearly 40% of pending sales involving a price reduction. Crook and Jefferson counties continue to show strong pricing stability, with homes generally selling closer to their original asking prices and requiring fewer reductions. The report notes that Central Oregon remains a diverse market, with trends varying significantly by county and price range, making local market knowledge especially important for both buyers and sellers. Read more → This issue reflects the vibrant and evolving landscape of Central Oregon, from community initiatives to environmental and legal challenges. Thank you for staying informed with us as we navigate the region’s diverse happenings. We hope you continue to find value in our curated content. |
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