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- 🚧 China Hat Area Closure Extended Through 2027
🚧 China Hat Area Closure Extended Through 2027
Issue #466
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In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…
🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays
🌄Bend, OR Weather
❄️ Late-Season Snow to Impact Cascade Pass Travel
📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?
✨ Central Oregon Wellness Giveaway: A $1,500+ Reset You Don’t Want to Miss
📰Local News - What’s a Happening?
📞 Scam Alert: Fake “Deputies” Calling Deschutes County Residents
🔥 Early Burn Ban Likely Across Central Oregon
🚧 China Hat Area Closure Extended Through 2027
🏦 Wells Fargo to Close Madras Branch After 60+ Years
⛏️ Crook County Mine Under Scrutiny as Next Steps Considered
♻️ Free Appliance Drop-Off Day Set for Crook County Landfill
🚨 Fire District Filing Errors Led to Illegal Taxes, Nepotism Concerns
🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News
🚨Crime News
⚖️ Board Denies Most Requests from Bend Woman Convicted in 2019 Murder
🥰Community News
🛋️ Furnish Hope Expands in Bend to Help More Families
📰Regional News
📆City of Bend Calendar of Events
🚧 Road Closures & Construction
💖Sponsors
😆Today’s Meme
🌪️Tornadoes in Oregon?!
Which region of Oregon sees the MOST tornado activity? |
GOOD MORNING
❄️ Late-Season Snow to Impact Cascade Pass Travel
 |  |
Just as spring weather settles into Central Oregon, a late-season storm is expected to bring snow, wind, and slick conditions to Cascade mountain passes this week. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is shifting back into winter operations, preparing plows and deicing crews to respond as conditions change quickly.
Officials say the combination of daytime melting and overnight freezing could create icy, hazardous roads—especially over passes like Santiam and Willamette. Drivers are urged to be prepared for winter travel, carry chains, allow extra time, and consider delaying nonessential trips until conditions improve.
What’s Up Central Oregon?
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✨ Central Oregon Wellness Giveaway: A $1,500+ Reset You Don’t Want to Miss
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Local News
📞 Scam Alert: Fake “Deputies” Calling Deschutes County Residents
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an active phone scam targeting the community, where callers are impersonating deputies and demanding payment for fake legal issues. Several reports have come in over the past few days, with scammers using spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate. Victims are told they’ve missed a court date or face charges, and are pressured to pay immediately to avoid arrest or further action.
Officials stress that this is not how law enforcement operates—no deputy will ever call to demand payment, request financial information, or threaten arrest over the phone. Scammers have even used real employee names, though often with incorrect details. Residents are encouraged to verify any suspicious calls by contacting non-emergency dispatch at (541) 693-6911 and report incidents to the FBI’s IC3 website. While no financial losses have been reported so far, authorities say these scams are designed to create urgency and can quickly lead to serious harm if not recognized.
🔥 Early Burn Ban Likely Across Central Oregon
Fire officials across Central Oregon are warning that outdoor debris burning will likely shut down earlier than usual this year, with a closure expected by April 30 due to dry conditions and low snowpack. The early move comes as much of the region is already experiencing moderate to severe drought, increasing wildfire risk. (My Central Oregon)
Fire chiefs say the goal is to prevent human-caused fires before peak season begins, and many areas could remain closed to burning until fall. Residents are encouraged to look at alternatives like chipping or hauling yard debris instead. 👉 Read more
🚧 China Hat Area Closure Extended Through 2027
The long-running closure of the China Hat area south of Bend is now expected to remain in place through at least April 2027, keeping popular recreation spots, trails, and buttes off-limits for another year. The closure—part of the Cabin Butte vegetation management project—has been slightly reduced in size, but still covers tens of thousands of acres.
Officials say the extended closure is necessary to continue large-scale cleanup, wildfire risk reduction, and habitat restoration efforts after years of heavy use and illegal dumping. Crews have already removed hundreds of tons of debris and dismantled abandoned vehicles, with work ongoing to restore the landscape and improve long-term safety in the area.
🏦 Wells Fargo to Close Madras Branch After 60+ Years
Wells Fargo’s Madras branch—the only location in Jefferson County—is set to close on June 24, ending more than six decades of service in the community. The closure will leave local customers without a physical Wells Fargo location in the county, with banking services shifting to the nearest branch in Redmond.
The move reflects broader changes in the banking industry, as more customers transition to online and mobile services. While the closure marks the end of a long-standing local presence, customers will still have access to accounts digitally or by traveling to nearby branches.
⛏️ Crook County Mine Under Scrutiny as Next Steps Considered
State regulators are taking a closer look at a controversial gravel mine near Prineville as concerns continue over possible groundwater contamination and future expansion plans. The site, operated by Knife River, has been under investigation for several years after nearby residents reported issues with well water, including elevated levels of metals like manganese. Officials say more data is still needed before any final decisions are made about the mine’s future.
At the center of the issue is whether mining activity has impacted local water quality or if the contaminants are naturally occurring. Regulators are working with the company on monitoring plans and weighing potential next steps, while residents continue pushing for clearer answers and accountability.
♻️ Free Appliance Drop-Off Day Set for Crook County Landfill
Local landfill hosting free appliance day Crook County Landfill will be hosting a free appliance day on Saturday, April 25. Accepted items include dishwashers, washers or dryers, water heaters, stoves and microwaves. Freon appliances (freezers, refrigerators, water coolers and air conditioners) are limited to one of each per customer. Please note that all appliances must be empty, and no exceptions will be made to the listed items. Landfill hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 541-447-2398.
🚨 Fire District Filing Errors Led to Illegal Taxes, Nepotism Concerns
An investigation has revealed that improper filings by the Alfalfa Fire District led to some Juniper Acres property owners being taxed without a legally completed annexation process. Officials say the boundary changes were never finalized correctly, yet residents were still assessed taxes tied to the district.
The situation has raised broader concerns, including allegations of nepotism involving the fire chief’s wife being hired within the district. State and county officials are now reviewing the situation and weighing next steps, while affected property owners continue seeking answers and potential reimbursement.
Fire & Rescue…
Crime News…
⚖️ Board Denies Most Requests from Bend Woman Convicted in 2019 Murder
The Psychiatric Security Review Board has denied most requests from Joanna Kasner, who was convicted in the 2019 shooting death of her neighbor Valerie Peterson north of Bend. Kasner, currently in a secure treatment facility, had asked for greater independence—including driving privileges and a move toward independent living—but the Board ruled those requests were premature. Only out-of-state travel was approved, with strict conditions including advance notice and GPS monitoring.
The decision comes as Peterson’s family continues to push for strong supervision, revisiting the tragic events during recent hearings. Kasner cited years of treatment for mental health conditions, while the state argued restrictions should remain in place.
👉 Read more: KTVZ
Community News…
🛋️ Furnish Hope Expands in Bend to Help More Families
A growing Central Oregon nonprofit is expanding its reach in Bend, aiming to serve even more families in need with essential home furnishings. Furnish Hope, which helps turn empty spaces into livable homes, is increasing capacity through a larger facility and expanded programs as demand continues to rise across the region.
Over the years, the organization has helped furnish thousands of homes for individuals and families facing hardship—including those transitioning out of homelessness, recovery programs, or difficult life situations. Leaders say the expansion will allow them to meet the growing need and continue providing a critical service that goes beyond furniture—offering stability, dignity, and a fresh start.
Regional News…
🌾 New Oregon Law Aims to Boost Family Farms
A new Oregon law signed by Governor Tina Kotek is designed to give family farms more flexibility to stay profitable by expanding opportunities for on-site sales and agritourism. The legislation allows farms to open small stores, host events like tours and farm-to-table dinners, and diversify how they generate income—all while keeping agriculture as the primary focus. (apps.oregon.gov)
Supporters say the bill is a major step toward helping farms adapt to changing economic pressures, strengthening rural communities, and connecting more Oregonians with local food sources. The new rules are expected to take effect in 2027, giving farmers and counties time to prepare for the changes. (apps.oregon.gov)
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