In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

 🎉 🌶️🥣42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle🎟️

 🎁 49th Annual Snowflake Boutique – Redmond

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

🔍La Pine Woman Reported Missing; Public’s Help Requested

 📰 Redmond, Deschutes County to co-manage homeless camp near airport

🏙️ Bend Proposes Multi-Use Plaza at Mirror Pond Parking Lot

🚓 Madras Launches Search for New Police Chief

📰 More Local News For You…

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🚨Crime News

 🚨Shots Fired, Man Struck by Vehicle in Shilo Inn Parking Lot; Suspect Arrested

🚔Teen Arrested in Eastside Safeway Shooting

🔫Armed Robbery at Sassy’s Café; Redmond Police Seek Suspect

🚔 Eight Arrested in Ponderosa Park Armed Robbery Investigation

📰Regional News

🥰Community News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

🧠 Test your Central Oregon knowledge!

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

🎉 🌶️🥣42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle🎟️

📍 Where: Deschutes Historical Museum, 129 NW Idaho Ave., Bend, OR
🗓 When: Fri Nov 7 & Sat Nov 8 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m. both days
🎟 Cost: Chili $10 (to-go available) • Museum admission FREE during the event

Ready your appetite for autumn! Join the Deschutes Historical Museum for its 42nd annual Chili Feed & Raffle — a tasty two-day fundraiser supporting its year-round programs and exhibits. The menu features the famed “Millie’s Chili” and assorted pies for dessert. While you're in the building, check out the museum (on us) and maybe pick up a raffle ticket for a chance to win gift baskets from beloved local businesses like The Old Mill District, Trader Joe’s Bend, Mount Bachelor and more. Come hungry, stay curious—and support local history.

👉 More info: deschuteshistory.org

 🎁 49th Annual Snowflake Boutique – Redmond

Get ready to dive into holiday cheer at one of Central Oregon’s most beloved traditions! The Snowflake Boutique returns for its 49th year, transforming the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center into a winter wonderland of handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and local creativity.

Wander through rows of beautifully curated treasures from more than 60 talented artisans offering everything from ornaments, home décor, jewelry, and clothing to metalwork, ceramics, and cozy winter accessories. Each item is handmade and juried for quality, making it the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while supporting local makers.

Held in the Cascade Lakes South Building, the event runs Friday, Nov. 7 from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is just $4 (kids under 12 get in free), and proceeds benefit local charities and the Redmond Senior Center.

Start your holiday shopping early, meet local artisans, and soak up the festive spirit — all while doing good for the community!

👉 More info: snowflakeboutique.org

Bend

🎭 Theatre & Performance

Beetlejuice JR
Where: Open Space Event Studios, 1500 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend, OR 97701
When: Ongoing through Nov 8 (Select showings) (Nov 3 at 6:00 pm–8:00 pm; Nov 6 at 5:00 pm–10:00 pm; Nov 8 at various times)
What: A theatrical show about death and the afterlife — when teenager Lydia moves into a haunted house and meets ghostly residents plus the mischievous demon Beetlejuice.
More Info / Tickets: Listed on VisitBend events. (Visit Bend)

🎨 Art / Community

First Friday at Scalehouse Gallery
Where: Scalehouse Gallery, NW Franklin Ave., Downtown Bend, OR 97701
When: Friday, Nov 7 (evening)
What: Celebrate the First Friday in Downtown Bend with two exhibition openings and the 10-year anniversary of Bend Design. Free admission. (Visit Bend)
Kids Art With a Splash of Science
Where: Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97703
When: Wednesday, Nov 5, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm
What: Young artists are invited to join a painting class that combines creativity and a little science. Fee applies. (Visit Bend)

🎵 Music & Nightlife

Thursday Night Live at Mountain Burger
Where: Mountain Burger Bend, 2747 NW Crossing Dr., Bend, OR 97703
When: Thursday, Nov 6, 6:00 pm–8:00 pm
What: Lucas Treptow live musical show to kick off the evening. Free admission. (Visit Bend)
Lexis Shardé Live at The Barrel Room
Where: UPP Liquids, SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR 97702
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 8:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: A mix of stand-up comedy, improv and musical comedy by Lexis Shardé—fun and high-energy. (Visit Bend)

🍽 Food & Fundraisers

42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle (Day 1)
Where: Deschutes Historical Museum, 129 NW Idaho Ave., Bend, OR 97703
When: Friday, Nov 7, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
What: Fundraiser lunch featuring chili, assorted pies, raffle items; museum admission is free during event. (Visit Bend)
2nd Annual Get Wild Chili Cook-Off
Where: 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend, OR 97703
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 4:00 pm–8:00 pm
What: A fundraiser supporting Think Wild, Central Oregon’s wildlife hospital and conservation center. Taste & vote on chili, soups & sides. (Visit Bend)

😄 Comedy & Adult-Themed

Bend Comedy November Showcase
Where: UPP Liquids, SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR 97702
When: Friday, Nov 7, 6:00 pm–8:00 pm
What: A stand-up comedy showcase featuring Northwest comedians including headliner Julia Corral. Tickets required. (Visit Bend)
Adult Prom Night at Craft Kitchen
Where: Craft Kitchen & Brewery, Layton Ave., Bend, OR 97703
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 7:00 pm–9:00 pm
What: 21+ prom night party produced by Bits N Skits, with proceeds going to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (Visit Bend)

🥂 Food & Drink / Special Dining

Wine Workshop Series: Playing with Varietals in Oregon with Hundred Suns
Where: Flights Wine Bar, NW College Way, Bend, OR 97701
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
What: A hands-on wine tasting workshop exploring Oregon varietals with owners/winemakers Grant Coulter & Renée Saint-Amour of Hundred Suns Winery. (Visit Bend)
Party People Dinner with Brie Larson & Chef Courtney McBroom
Where: Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge, SW Century Dr., Bend, OR 97702
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 6:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: A cookbook-tour dinner event featuring actor/author Brie Larson, a signed copy of Party People, meet & greet, 4-course dinner inspired by the book. (Visit Bend)

🕺 Family & Multi-Age

Boots & Brews – Beginner Line Dance Night
Where: Worthy Brewing, NE Bellevue Dr., Bend, OR (Eastside Pub Hop-Mahal)
When: Tuesday, Nov 4, 6:30 pm–8:30 pm
What: Free beginner line dance lessons followed by an hour of open dance floor time. Family-friendly. (Visit Bend)

Redmond

🎤 Karaoke & Nightlife

Karaoke Night at Blacksmith Public House
Where: 308 SW Evergreen Ave., Redmond, OR 97756
When: Thursday, Nov 6, 6:30 pm-8:00 pm
What: Free karaoke night with DJ Chris — grab friends, pick a song, get on stage! (Visit Redmond Oregon)
More Info: Visit Redmond event page

🛍️ Markets & Boutique Events

Snowflake Boutique
Where: Check event listing (Redmond)
When: Friday, Nov 7 through Saturday, Nov 8
What: Local craft and gift boutique event — good for early holiday shopping. (Visit Redmond Oregon)
More Info: Visit Redmond events

💼 Community / Networking

Coffee Clatter – Host: Shop With A Cop
Where: (Venue in Redmond)
When: Wednesday, Nov 5, 1:00 pm-2:00 pm
What: Networking and community-coffee meetup supporting the Shop With A Cop program. (Visit Redmond Oregon)
More Info: Visit Redmond events list

📌 Bonus Note

This week’s list is relatively light — you may want to keep an eye on the local event calendar for last-minute additions or pop-ups: Visit Redmond calendar (Visit Redmond Oregon)

Sisters

🛍️ Markets & Community Gatherings

Sisters Community Event – Local Craft Pop-Up
Where: Main Avenue, Sisters, OR 97759
When: Friday, Nov 7, time to be confirmed
What: A pop-up craft-market style event for locals and visitors to browse handmade goods, gifts and art by Sisters Country artisans. (Event link via Explore Sisters calendar)

🕺 Family / All Ages

Community Game Night at the Sisters Parks & Rec Center
Where: Sisters Parks & Recreation District, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd., Sisters, OR 97759
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
What: Bring the family and join board games, card-games, snacks and casual fun in a relaxed setting. (More info via Sisters Recreation special events)

📣 Community / Networking

Local Business Coffee Meetup – “What’s Up Sisters” Edition
Where: The Barn & Gathering, 171 E Main Avenue, Sisters, OR 97759
When: Thursday, Nov 6, 8:00 am–9:30 am
What: A casual morning networking & coffee time for local business owners, community organizers and newsletter readers to connect and share updates on what's happening in Sisters Country. (Check event listings at Visit Central Oregon – Sisters calendar)

Prineville

🎨 Arts & Culture

Local History Talk at the Bowman Museum
Where: A. R. Bowman Memorial Museum, 246 N. Main St., Prineville, OR 97754
When: Wednesday, Nov 5, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm
What: A presentation on historic timber-industry operations in Crook County and their legacy. More Info: Bowman Museum events

🎟️ Family & Recreation

Open Riding at the Fairgrounds
Where: Crook County Fairgrounds, 3800 NE 3rd St., Prineville, OR 97754
When: Thursday, Nov 6 and Friday, Nov 7, starting 9:00 am (ongoing access)
What: Public access to riding arena and open riding sessions (horses/-equipment) in the fairgrounds complex. More Info: Fairgrounds calendar

Sunriver & La Pine

La Pine Senior Activity Center – Weekly Community Lunch & Activities
Where: 16450 Victory Way, La Pine, OR 97739 — Map
When: Tues, Wed & Thurs (Nov 4-6 and Nov 11-13) 11:30 am – 12:30 pm; plus Monday Night Bingo
What: Join neighbors for homemade lunches, fitness and line-dancing classes, crafts, and friendly games. All ages welcome; donations appreciated.
More Info: La Pine Senior Activity Center Events

🎨 Artists’ Gallery Second Saturday Reception
Where: The Village at Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
What: Monthly gallery evening featuring local artists, complimentary wine, and live music in a casual social setting.
More Info: The Village at Sunriver Events

🎵 Live Music at The Lake House – Erin Cole Baker
Where: The Lake House at Caldera Springs, Caldera Springs Dr., Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Friday, Nov 7, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
What: Relax lakeside with friends and enjoy a beautiful sunset as Erin Cole Baker performs live at The Lake House in Caldera Springs.
More Info: Caldera Springs Events

🚴‍♂️ Charity Night for COTA (Central Oregon Trail Alliance)
Where: Sunriver Brewing Co. – Brewery Tap Room, Venture Lane, Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Wednesday, Nov 12, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
What: Century Commons Taps & Trucks hosts COTA for a special Charity Night! Enjoy local brews while supporting trail maintenance and volunteer efforts. Representatives will be on hand to share info and sign up new members. A portion of the evening’s sales benefits COTA.
More Info: Sunriver Brewing Events

🤝 Clubs & Organization Socials – Sunriver Area
Where: Various venues around Sunriver — Map
When: Weeks of Nov 3-9 and Nov 9-16 (check calendar for club meetings and interest groups)
What: Owner meetups, club gatherings, and community social events hosted throughout Sunriver.
More Info: Sunriver Clubs & Organizations Calendar

❄️ 4th Annual Winter Tradition Fair
Where: La Pine Event Venue (TBD), La Pine, OR 97739 — Map
When: Sunday, Nov 16, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
What: Kick off the holiday season with local vendors, handcrafted gifts, and festive treats at La Pine’s Winter Tradition Fair.
More Info: La Pine Events Calendar 

Madras

🧠 Trivia / Game Nights

Community Trivia Night
Where: Sahalee Park, 985 SW Beck Way, Madras, OR 97741
When: Wednesday, Nov 5, 6:30 pm–8:00 pm
What: Join your neighbors for a relaxed evening of trivia, snacks and local-pride competition under the lights in the park. More Info: Madras Downtown Events Calendar

🎤 Music & Nightlife

Live Acoustic Evening at Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill
Where: 1251 SW 4th St., Madras, OR 97741
When: Friday, Nov 7, 7:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: An intimate night of live acoustic sets by local and visiting musicians, pub-style setting, dinner and drinks available. More Info: Madras-Jefferson County Chamber Event Calendar

🛍️ Markets & Boutique Events

Fall Craft & Artisan Pop-Up Market
Where: Jefferson County Event Complex, 430 SW Fairgrounds Rd., Madras, OR 97741
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 10:00 am–4:00 pm
What: Browse stalls of handmade goods, seasonal decor, jams & jellies, and unique gifts — perfect for early holiday shopping and supporting local makers. More Info: Madras Downtown Events Calendar

💼 Community / Networking

Morning Coffee Meetup – Madras Business Connect
Where: Chamber Office, 274 SW 4th St., Madras, OR 97741
When: Thursday, Nov 6, 8:00 am–9:30 am
What: A casual business networking session for local entrepreneurs, nonprofit folks and community leaders — coffee & light breakfast provided. More Info: Madras-Jefferson County Chamber Event Calendar

🕺 Family & Multi-Age

Family Movie Night: “Classic Adventure”
Where: Madras Performing Arts Center, 600 NW Douglas St., Madras, OR 97741
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 5:00 pm–7:00 pm
What: Bring blankets or comfy chairs and enjoy a family-friendly classic movie on the big screen — concessions available, donation at the door. More Info: MPAC Event Calendar

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Local News…

🔍La Pine Woman Reported Missing; Public’s Help Requested

LA PINE, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating 29-year-old Jezrah Starflower Tracy, who was last seen in the early morning hours of Saturday, Nov. 1, near Woodchip Lane in La Pine. Tracy left the area on foot and does not have access to a vehicle.

She is described as a white female, 5'7" tall, weighing approximately 125 pounds, with brown eyes and blonde or strawberry-colored hair. She was last seen wearing a blue jacket and blue jeans and was reportedly carrying a cat. Anyone with information about Jezrah’s whereabouts is urged to contact non-emergency dispatch at (541) 693-6911. Authorities and her loved ones are hoping for a safe return.

📰 Redmond, Deschutes County to co-manage homeless camp near airport

REDMOND, Ore. -- The Redmond City Council and Board of Deschutes County Commissioners have approved an agreement to co-manage a 10-acre homeless camp on Redmond's east side.

The camp with 72 campsites would be just north of Highway 126 near the Redmond Airport. The site will include a kitchen area, portable toilets, water, electricity and trash services.

Leaders with the city and county are working on developing a mandatory code for campers.

The site is slated to open by late January 2026.

🏙️ Bend Proposes Multi-Use Plaza at Mirror Pond Parking Lot

BEND, Ore. — A new City of Bend proposal could give the North Mirror Pond Parking Lot — located between The Commons Café and Watershed Coffee, just south of Pine Tavern — a major facelift. While the lot will remain primarily for parking, the reimagined space would double as a flexible plaza for city-sanctioned events. Plans include a built-in stage, new public restrooms, upgraded concrete, and other features designed to enhance community gatherings and support downtown events.

The project is fully funded, with construction costs covered by a mix of transient room tax dollars, parking funds, and reserve accounts — meaning no new fees or taxes for residents. City officials say it offers the most immediate economic development potential, addressing downtown challenges like limited event space and lack of public restrooms. The Downtown Bend Business Association and local artists are voicing strong support, calling it a forward-thinking move for Bend’s growing and vibrant downtown.

🚓 Madras Launches Search for New Police Chief

MADRAS, Ore. — The City of Madras is officially searching for its next police chief following the July dismissal of former Chief Tim Plummer. Interim Chief Paul Garrison has been leading the department since then, earning praise from city leadership for his understanding of the community’s needs. City Administrator Will Ibershof says the hiring of a new chief marks a chance to turn the page and strengthen connections between longtime residents and newcomers alike.

The city hopes to find a candidate who will help foster unity and ensure all community members feel safe, regardless of political views. "We're really trying to focus on what we can do as a group," Ibershof said, highlighting the city’s goal of being a cohesive and supportive entity. Applications for the position are open through November 30.

📰 More Local News For You

• Bend Park & Rec officials question impact of city tax breaks on future park funding
  BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Bend Park and Recreation Board is examining how development incentives and tax exemptions might impact long-term funding for parks and public spaces.

• Bend’s Franklin Avenue will have a traffic direction change starting Wednesday for ongoing construction
  Drivers in Bend should prepare for a traffic shift on Franklin Avenue beginning Wednesday, Nov. 5, due to construction work.

• Community to gather for ‘A Novel Idea’ 2026 book reveal at Downtown Bend Library
  BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Celebrate the 2026 A Novel Idea book reveal at an after-hours event on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Downtown Bend Library.

• Bend and Summit girls soccer dominate; Mtn. View girls fall in OT
  BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Bend High girls won the IMC championship and are now eyeing a return to the state title match.

• Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation Welcomes New Executive Director
  The MBSEF has appointed Kevin Perkey as its new executive director, bringing leadership experience to support youth athletic programs.

Fire & Rescue…

Crime News…

 🚨Shots Fired, Man Struck by Vehicle in Shilo Inn Parking Lot; Suspect Arrested

BEND, Ore. — A Bend man was hospitalized and another taken into custody after a violent altercation in the early morning hours of Sunday, Nov. 2, at the Shilo Inn on O.B. Riley Road. Bend Police responded around 4:03 a.m. to reports of gunfire in the parking lot. Investigators say 23-year-old Jeison Barrios showed up at a party at the hotel, got into a dispute with attendees, and allegedly fired a handgun three times. While no one was hit by the gunfire, Barrios is then accused of hitting a 32-year-old man with a vehicle before fleeing the scene.

Officers later stopped a speeding truck on NE Third Street and discovered the injured victim inside. He was transported to St. Charles Bend with non-life-threatening injuries. Shortly after, police found a damaged Ford Explorer abandoned on the Wilson Avenue overpass, consistent with the assault. Barrios was located that afternoon at Cascade Lodge and arrested without incident. He faces charges including felony hit and run and unlawful use of a weapon. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the case.

🚔Teen Arrested in Eastside Safeway Shooting

BEND, Ore. — Bend Police have arrested a 17-year-old Redmond resident in connection with the Oct. 29 shooting in the Safeway East parking lot on NE Highway 20. The incident, which occurred around 6:07 p.m., left an 18-year-old Bend man with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to St. Charles Bend with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and has since been treated and released.

Investigators believe the shooting was a targeted incident, not a random act of violence. The suspect, taken into custody on Tuesday, Nov. 4, is being held at the Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice facility. He faces charges of first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

🔫Armed Robbery at Sassy’s Café; Redmond Police Seek Suspect

Redmond, OR – On Friday, October 31, at approximately 4:58 p.m., the Redmond Police Department (RPD) responded to an armed robbery at Sassy’s Cafe. A male subject entered the cafe, displayed a black handgun and demanded money. The suspect left the business on foot and has yet to be identified. Sassy’s Cafe employees and patrons were not injured during the incident. Police are asking the public if anyone witnessed the incident or saw the suspect at Sassy’s on Friday around 4:50 p.m, to contact RPD. The suspect was wearing a black ski-mask, black hat and black pullover with an Adidas logo, blue jeans and Romeo style boots. 

If you have any information about the case, please contact the Redmond Police Department through police dispatch (541-693-6911). 

🚔 Eight Arrested in Ponderosa Park Armed Robbery Investigation

BEND, Ore. — Eight individuals, ranging in age from 17 to 23, were arrested Tuesday across Bend in connection with a September armed robbery at Ponderosa Park. The incident took place in the early morning hours of Sept. 29, when a 27-year-old Bend man was reportedly robbed at gunpoint, pistol-whipped, and had his belongings — including firearms and prescription drugs — stolen. Police say the altercation followed a dispute among friends returning from a trip to Eugene, and the suspect approached the victim’s vehicle wearing a ski mask and brandishing a handgun.

Following an investigation, Bend Police and the Central Oregon Emergency Operations Team executed search warrants at three locations across the city, including residences on

• Home in the 400 block of SE Wildcat Drive

• Apartment in the 1300 block of NE Purcell Avenue

• Apartment at 1600 block of NW Portland Avenue

All adults were booked into the Deschutes County Jail, while the 17-year-old was taken to juvenile detention. Authorities noted that the suspects and victim knew each other. Charges vary among the group and may include robbery, assault, criminal conspiracy, and bias crime.

Regional News…

Community News… 

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