In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

❄️🌬️What La Niña Could Mean for Central Oregon This Winter

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

 🎉 🌶️🥣42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle🎟️

 🎁 49th Annual Snowflake Boutique – Redmond

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

 🚧 Seasonal Road Closures Begin Soon in Deschutes County

 📰Baker County Rancher Weighs In on Trump-Era Beef Industry Plan

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🚨 Fatal Crash at Hwy 97 & Hwy 370 Claims Life of Redmond Woman

 🧭 Want to Join Search and Rescue? Deschutes County Is Taking Applications

🚨Crime News

⚖️ Appeals Court Overturns Ian Cranston Conviction in 2021 Shooting of Barry Washington Jr.

 🐱 Prineville Pastor Charged with Animal Abuse After Cat Survives Shooting

📰Regional News

🥰Community News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

❄️ What La Niña Could Mean for Central Oregon This Winter

Get ready, Central Oregon — the Pacific is sending us a cool signal. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a La Niña pattern has returned and is expected to stick around through February 2026, gradually fading to neutral by spring. While this year’s event is shaping up to be weak, even a mild La Niña can have big local impacts.

🌦️ What La Niña Means

La Niña occurs when sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific cool below average, which shifts the jet stream northward and influences storm tracks across the U.S. For the Pacific Northwest, that usually translates into cooler and wetter conditions, particularly in the mountains.

In a strong La Niña year, Oregon often gets pummeled by snow and rain. But this winter’s event is expected to be weaker, meaning its effects will be more subtle — and more variable. Still, Central Oregon could see a tilt toward colder temperatures and above-average snowfall, especially in higher elevations like Sisters, La Pine, and Mt. Bachelor.

🏔️ Local Impacts to Watch

• Snowpack boost: Cooler temperatures and more mountain storms could help build up the Cascades’ snowpack — a welcome change after several uneven winters. That’s good news for ski areas, reservoirs, and spring water supplies.

• Mixed precipitation at lower elevations: With warming trends in recent years, Bend and Redmond might see more rain mixed with snow, even if nearby mountains get buried.

• Fire season timing: More snow and moisture could delay the start of fire season next summer, though long-term fire risk still depends on spring weather patterns.

• Winter recreation: Skiers and snowboarders could be in luck — La Niña winters often favor strong early- and mid-season conditions in the Cascades.

📚 Lessons from Past La Niña Winters

History gives us some clues. During 2016–17’s weak La Niña, Central Oregon saw “Snowmageddon,” one of the snowiest winters in decades. Roofs collapsed, roads closed, and Mt. Bachelor enjoyed a record-long ski season. Other La Niña years — like 2010–11 and 2020–21 — also brought deep snow to the mountains, though not always in town.

That said, La Niña sets the odds, not the guarantee. Each winter still depends on short-term atmospheric patterns — so while we’re leaning cooler and snowier, it’s wise to expect surprises.

🔭 What’s Next

NOAA will continue updating its outlooks monthly. For Central Oregon, the key signs to watch are storm frequency in December and January and snow-water-equivalent data (SNOTEL) from the Upper Deschutes and Crooked River basins. If those numbers climb early, it could be a banner snow year.

So dig out the shovels, wax the skis, and keep an eye on those forecasts. Even a “weak” La Niña can pack a punch — and if history’s any guide, Central Oregon just might be in for a winter to remember.

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

🧠 Trivia / Game Nights

Trivia on the Moon
Where: Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Redmond, OR 97756
When: Tuesday, Nov 4, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
What: Monthly trivia night — bring your team and compete in a fun, social quiz atmosphere. (Visit Redmond Oregon)
More Info: Visit Redmond event page

🎤 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

🎤 Arts & Literature

Sisters Festival of Books – Book Discussion: “The El” by Theodore C. Van Alst Jr.
Where: Downtown Sisters – location TBA, Sisters, OR 97759
When: Tuesday, Nov 4, 5:30 pm–7:00 pm
What: Part of the Sisters Festival of Books — join a guided discussion of The El, a semi-autobiographical novel about a group of teenage gang members trekking across Chicago to a momentous meeting. (More Info & RSVP)

🛍️ 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

🧠 Community & Networking

Business Coffee Connect – Prineville Start-of-Week Meetup
Where: 387 NE 3rd Street, Prineville, OR 97754
When: Monday, Nov 3, 8:00 am-9:30 am
What: Local business owners, community leaders and entrepreneurs meet for informal coffee and networking. More Info: Crook County calendar

🎨 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

Here’s your events list for Madras, Oregon for the week of November 3–9, 2025, formatted for your Central Oregon Local Buzz newsletter. 🎉
Events are grouped by category and each entry includes: Title; Where (with address); When; What; More info/tickets link.

🧠 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…

 🚧 Seasonal Road Closures Begin Soon in Deschutes County

Deschutes County Road Department will close Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road for the winter on Tuesday, Nov. 18, in coordination with the U.S. Forest Service. These annual closures help ensure public safety and support winter recreation, as snow depths can reach up to 10 feet in higher elevations. The roads are expected to reopen before Memorial Day.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Department of Transportation plans to close McKenzie Pass Highway (OR 242) no later than Nov. 6 due to snow and ice. For the latest road conditions, visit deschutes.org/road or TripCheck.com.

 🐮Baker County rancher and Oregon Cattlemen’s Association president reflects on Trump administration’s plan to boost beef industry

Published 6:36 am Friday, October 24, 2025 By Jayson Jacoby | Baker City Herald

Matt McElligott was in the mountains, moving his cattle off summer range in the brilliant sunshine of Indian summer, when he learned, during a brief cellular connection to the outside world, about the Trump administration’s campaign to strengthen the U.S. beef industry. McElligott, who lives in Baker Valley and is president of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, was pleased with the news. But his optimism is decidedly of the cautious variety.

Read more at: https://centraloregonian.com/2025/10/24/baker-county-rancher-and-oregon-cattlemens-association-president-reflects-on-trump-administrations-plan-to-boost-beef-industry/ 

 Fire & Rescue…

 🚨 Fatal Crash at Hwy 97 & Hwy 370 Claims Life of Redmond Woman

A tragic two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 at the Highway 370 intersection in Deschutes County claimed the life of 85-year-old Sheila Ann Nordman of Redmond on Wednesday, October 29. According to Oregon State Police, Nordman was driving a Ford Escape westbound on Highway 370 and attempted to cross Highway 97 when she was struck nearly head-on by a southbound BMW driven by 21-year-old Sebryna Denise Parry of Terrebonne.

Parry and a 2-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries, while Nordman was transported to a nearby hospital and later pronounced deceased. The crash briefly shut down the highway for about an hour while emergency crews and investigators responded. Redmond Fire & Rescue, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police, and ODOT assisted at the scene.

🧭 Want to Join Search and Rescue? Deschutes County Is Taking Applications

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for its highly respected Search and Rescue (SAR) team through November 21. Volunteers play a vital role in helping locate and assist people in emergency situations — from avalanche rescues and river incidents to missing hikers and injured climbers at places like Smith Rock and Mt. Bachelor.

Interested applicants must pass a background check and complete over 100 hours of formal training. “These are the people who respond when someone’s lost or in danger — whether it’s a missing child or a backcountry emergency,” said DCSO spokesperson Jason Carr. The position is unpaid, but the need is great and the work is critical.

 Crime News…

⚖️ Appeals Court Overturns Ian Cranston Conviction in 2021 Shooting of Barry Washington Jr.

The Oregon Court of Appeals has reversed the conviction of Ian Cranston, who was serving a 10-year sentence for the 2021 shooting death of Barry Washington Jr. outside a downtown Bend nightclub. The court found that the trial judge erred by not instructing the jury that Oregon law does not require a person to retreat when acting in self-defense. Cranston’s attorneys had specifically requested this instruction, arguing it was essential given the prosecutor’s line of questioning and the potential for jury confusion. The court agreed, stating the lack of instruction was not a harmless error and likely impacted the verdict.

Cranston was convicted in 2022 on charges including first- and second-degree manslaughter, assault, and two counts of unlawful use of a weapon. He was acquitted of second-degree murder. His legal team has consistently argued that his actions were lawful and that he acted in self-defense. In a statement to Central Oregon Daily News, Cranston’s attorney Kevin Sali said, “We are grateful to the Court of Appeals for recognizing that the jury in the first trial was not instructed properly, and we expect that in the second trial there will be no doubt about Ian’s innocence.”

It is not yet clear whether Cranston will be released while awaiting a potential new trial. The Oregon Department of Justice is reviewing the decision and may petition the Oregon Supreme Court for further review. The appeals court’s ruling came just days after friends and family of Barry Washington Jr. unveiled a memorial plaque near the site of the fatal shooting, keeping public attention on the case as it enters a new phase.

 🐱 Prineville Pastor Charged with Animal Abuse After Cat Survives Shooting

A Prineville pastor is facing a first-degree animal abuse charge after a cat named Pumpkin was found shot three times in the head and left in a dumpster. Jason Andrew Swick, 49, was charged last week with the Class A misdemeanor and is scheduled for arraignment on December 3.

Pumpkin miraculously survived the ordeal but is now permanently blind. The case has sparked outrage in the community. Crook County District Attorney Kari Hathorn confirmed the charge is directly related to the shooting and said her office will continue working with law enforcement and the cat’s owner as the investigation progresses.

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