In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

🎄 Downtown Bend Lights Up for Bend Christmas Parade

🎄🎅 3rd Annual Lunch with Santa & Holiday Bazaar – Terrebonne

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

 🦌 Watch for Wildlife: Fall Migration Means More Animals on Oregon Roads

 🐾 Meet Sanford: Bend PD’s New Stress-Sniffing Therapy Dog

♻️Knott Landfill, transfer stations expand recycling options for items blue bins can’t take

 🚙White SUV crashes into Bend ice cream shop

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🔥 Woodstove Flue Sparks Roof Fire in NE Bend Home

💥 Four Injured in Serious Crash on Hwy 26 Near Madras

🔥 Exploding Ammo & Fireworks Complicate Alfalfa House Fire Response

🚨Crime News

 🚓 High-Speed Chase Ends in Arrest Tied to Narcotics Investigation

🚨 Drive-Thru Dispute at Taco Salsa Leads to Arrests and Misinformation Concerns

🥰Community News

 🎅🚒 Santa Express Returns to Bend to Collect Holiday Donations

📰Regional News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🐾Pet of the Week

🐶Meet Lady - CCREW

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

🧠 Test your Central Oregon knowledge!

👉See the Expanded Answer in Friday’s Newsletter 👈

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

FEATURED EVENT

🎄 Downtown Bend Lights Up for Bend Christmas Parade

Mark your calendar — on Saturday, December 6, 12:00 Noon the streets of downtown Bend will come alive with holiday spirit as the Bend Christmas Parade rolls through town at noon. The annual parade, now in its 40‑plus-year run, brings together volunteers, families, and community groups to transform downtown into a sparkling winter celebration with floats, music, festive costumes, and all the charm that makes this event a local favorite. (Cascade Relays)

This year’s theme — “A Storybook Christmas!” — invites everyone to favorite holiday tales. Expect to see floats inspired by classics like The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman and more — a festive parade of nostalgia, creativity, and community joy. (Cascade Relays)

Grab a hot cocoa, bundle up, and find a cozy spot along the route — the Bend Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition and the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Central Oregon.

 🎄🎅 3rd Annual Lunch with Santa & Holiday Bazaar – Terrebonne

Get ready for a festive afternoon at the 3rd Annual Lunch with Santa & Holiday Bazaar! Happening Saturday, December 6th from 11 AM to 4 PM, this family-friendly event invites kids to enjoy holiday fun including make-your-own pizza, hot cocoa and cookies, holiday arts and crafts, and of course a photo with Santa. Parents can browse a selection of unique gifts at the holiday bazaar while the kiddos enjoy the activities.

The event takes place at 8483 NW Lone Pine Rd., Terrebonne. Tickets are $10 per child, and the day is hosted by Lone Pine Legacy. For more information, email [email protected] or call 541-383-4246.

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Deschutes Public Library Events

Other Event Sources:

Visit Central Oregon Event Listings

Bend Magazine Event Listings

Local News…

 🦌 Watch for Wildlife: Fall Migration Means More Animals on Oregon Roads

As deer, elk, and other wildlife begin their annual fall migration to lower elevations, the Oregon Wildlife Foundation (OWF) is urging drivers to stay alert and help prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions. Each year, about 5,000 large animals are hit and killed on Oregon roads, with most incidents occurring in October and November—posing a risk to both animals and motorists.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down, especially at dawn and dusk, heed wildlife crossing signs, and remember that when one animal crosses, others may follow. The OWF’s “Watch for Wildlife” license plate not only raises awareness but also funds safety projects like wildlife undercrossings, overcrossings, and fencing. Plates can be ordered through the DMV or at myowf.org/watchforwildlife.

 🐾 Meet Sanford: Bend PD’s New Stress-Sniffing Therapy Dog

The Bend Police Department has a new furry recruit—Sanford, a specially trained therapy dog who’s ready to lend a paw. Introduced in a Facebook and Instagram video Monday night, Sanford is trained to detect stress and provide emotional support, not just for officers but also for victims of crime and community members navigating tough situations. The department says Sanford will be a calming presence during moments when it’s needed most.

♻️Knott Landfill, transfer stations expand recycling options for items blue bins can’t take

BEND, Ore. -- Knott Landfill and Deschutes County transfer stations are giving environmentally-conscious folks a chance to get rid of some of those hard-to-recycle items that aren't supposed to go in your curbside blue bin. 

These items can be dropped off at Deschutes Recycling at the Knott Landfill and at the Negus, Southwest and Northwest Transfer Stations:

• Plastic bags

• Plastic lids from items like yogurt and sour cream tubs

• Shredded paper in paper bags

• Aluminum foil & trays

• Rigid product buckets and pails from items like cat litter or laundry detergent

• Rigid plastic package handles such as six-pack carriers  

Below are more details from the Deschutes County Solid Waste website:

Here’s what can dropped off for free at transfer stations or mixed in curbside recycling

• Aluminum, tin and steel cans and scrap metal - Less than 10 pounds and 18 inches

• Plastic bottles, round containers, buckets and rigid plant pots - caps ok if screwed on . All items must be 2 by 2 inches or larger

• Cardboard and cartons - flattened cardboard, packaging boxes and food and beverage cartons - pizza boxes must be empty with no food residue. 

• Paper - Newspaper, magazines, office paper, egg cartons, mail, paperback books, paper bags, and nonmetallic gift wrap.

Items that Cannot Be Accepted in Mixed Curbside Recycling

• Plastic bags

• Film

• Foam

• Bottle and tub lids

• Clamshell and bakery containers

• Biodegradable plastics

• Styrofoam

• Frozen food boxes

• Paper cups, plates, towels and napkins

• Pet food bags

• Paper ream wrappers

• Waxed paper

• Candy wrappers or snack food bags

OTHER RECYCLABLE ITEMS

These items are FREE to recycle and are accepted at all Transfer Station Recycling Centers.

• Auto Batteries: No cracked or leaking batteries.

• BBQ's:  Tanks recycled separately.

• Corrugated Cardboard: Flatten. No slick or wax-coated. Accepted in curbside as well. 

• Electronics: Monitors, CPUs, TVs, keyboards, mice and printers

• Glass Bottles and Jars: Clean, remove lids. No ceramics, Pyrex, mirrors, baking dishes, or window glass.

• Lawnmower:  All fluids must be removed.

• Motor Oil: Put into a non-breakable container with a tight-fitting lid. No antifreeze, gasoline, or solvents.

• Paint & Stains:  Visit the PaintCare website to find a drop off location near you

• Propane Tanks: up to 7-gallons

• Shredded Paper: no longer in mixed recycling but in a separate container at all transfer depots.

• Scrap Metal: Almost all metal items. Call Deschutes Recycling 541-388-1910 with additional questions.

Recycled for a Fee

For fee information for Deschutes Recycling located at Knott can be found here or call (541) 388-1910.  For fee information for all other Deschutes County Transfer Stations refer to Rates and Fees.

• Antifreeze: Accepted Deschutes Recycling located at Knott.  Accepted at the Haz Waste Facility for no fee

• Appliances: Accepted at Deschutes Recycling located at Knott. Negus, Northwest and Southwest Transfer Stations

• Computer parts and components: Refer to Electronic Waste Recycling page

• Microwaves: Accepted as scrap metal recycling.

• Sod:  Accepted Deschutes Recycling located at Knott. 

• Stumps:  12" in diameter and smaller are accepted Deschutes Recycling located at Knott. , Negus, Northwest and Southwest Transfer Stations

• Tires: Accepted at all sites

• Wood waste: Accepted Deschutes Recycling located at Knott and Negus Transfer Station

• Yard debris: Accepted Deschutes Recycling located at Knott, Negus, Northwest & Southwest Transfer Stations

 🚙White SUV crashes into Bend ice cream shop

BEND, Ore. [KTVZ] -- KTVZ confirms a white four-door SUV crashed into Handel's Homemade Ice Cream at 61165 S. Highway 97 in Bend Tuesday evening.

911 dispatch received multiple calls about the collision. Police describe it as an accident with no injuries reported from inside the shop or the vehicle.​

Authorities on scene quickly secured the area around the storefront, which sustained visible damage from the impact. No further information has been released on the cause, such as driver error or mechanical issues.

KTVZ reporters are monitoring for updates from Bend Police as the investigation continues.​

Fire & Rescue…

 🔥 Woodstove Flue Sparks Roof Fire in NE Bend Home

Bend Fire & Rescue crews quickly responded to a structure fire at a single-family home in northeast Bend after a resident awoke to the smell of smoke and saw flames on the roof. All three occupants safely evacuated after being alerted to the fire, which originated in the home’s woodstove flue. Firefighters arrived within minutes and had the blaze under control in about 30 minutes, limiting damage to the roof and preventing it from spreading inside the home.

Investigators determined that radiant heat from the aging flue likely ignited the home’s wood shake shingles. The entire roof will now need to be replaced with a fire-rated material. With home heating equipment being the leading cause of residential fires in Oregon—about 450 each year—Bend Fire urges residents to ensure chimneys are clear and stoves are properly inspected before use. For safety tips, call 541-322-6300.

 🚨 Four Injured in Serious Crash on Hwy 26 Near Madras

A nearly head-on collision between a van and a semi-truck on U.S. Highway 26 north of Madras early Monday morning left at least four people injured and shut down the highway for about four hours. Oregon State Police say the crash occurred around 6:20 a.m. near milepost 112 when a Chrysler van traveling eastbound crossed into the westbound lane and collided with a Freightliner truck.

The van's driver and three passengers were transported to St. Charles Madras with serious injuries, while the truck driver was also taken to the hospital with possible injuries. Both vehicles were towed from the scene, and a diesel spill was cleaned up by SMAF Environmental. ODOT, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire and EMS crews assisted in the response.

🔥 Exploding Ammo & Fireworks Complicate Alfalfa House Fire Response

A home in Alfalfa was destroyed by fire Monday afternoon, with firefighters facing extreme challenges due to exploding fireworks, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and a lack of nearby hydrants. Crews from Alfalfa Fire District responded to the blaze on Deer Lane around 3:25 p.m., initially reported as a flue fire but quickly upgraded to a full structure fire. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was pouring from the roof, but all residents were safely out and no injuries were reported.

Firefighters battled intense flames in the attic and ceiling while working under dangerous conditions. Limited water access forced water tenders to make repeated 35–40-minute trips to refill, and mutual aid from Bend Fire helped support the effort. The home was deemed a total loss, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Fire crews remained on scene until nearly 3 a.m.

Crime News…

 🚓 High-Speed Chase Ends in Arrest Tied to Narcotics Investigation

A Prineville man is facing felony charges after leading officers on a high-speed pursuit that began in Prineville and ended hours later in Harney County. On the morning of November 30, Prineville Police attempted to stop 46-year-old Clay Jamison, who was linked to an ongoing narcotics investigation. Instead, Jamison fled in a white Nissan Altima, driving recklessly and reaching speeds over 100 mph before the pursuit was called off for public safety.

Thanks to coordinated efforts from multiple law enforcement agencies, including Oregon State Police and several county sheriff’s offices, Jamison was later arrested without incident in Harney County. He was found in possession of felony amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine and is now facing charges in Crook County for felony attempt to elude and reckless driving. The Prineville Police Department expressed gratitude for the swift inter-agency collaboration that helped bring the case to a safe resolution.

 🚨 Drive-Thru Dispute at Taco Salsa Leads to Arrests and Misinformation Concerns

A heated altercation between a driver and a cyclist at Taco Salsa on Galveston Avenue Saturday ended with both men arrested and a wake of online misinformation. According to Bend Police, the confrontation began when a truck nearly hit a cyclist while exiting the drive-thru. The cyclist allegedly punched the driver, who then struck back. The incident escalated when the driver reportedly drove onto the landscaping, hitting a bench and table.

Though bystanders claimed the driver was chasing the cyclist—sharing a photo of a bike pinned under a truck—Bend Police have not confirmed that detail. Both men were arrested for disorderly conduct and fourth-degree assault. The driver also faces additional charges including reckless driving and criminal mischief.

The incident drew attention on social media after an AI-driven scanner app misreported the situation as a car crashing into Taco Salsa. Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller cautioned the public about relying on AI-generated news from scanner apps, which often sensationalize or misinterpret initial 911 dispatches. “I worry that apps like this... can get in the way of you getting accurate information,” said Miller.

Police urge residents to follow official sources for reliable information and remind the community that while road rage incidents may arise, violence is never the answer.

Community News…

🎅🚒 Santa Express Returns to Bend to Collect Holiday Donations

Starting Friday, Dec. 5, Bend Fire & Rescue’s beloved Santa Express will be rolling through local neighborhoods to collect food, clothing, and toys in support of The Salvation Army. Santa and his firefighter helpers will begin their festive neighborhood walks at 6 p.m. each evening, encouraging families to meet them curbside with donations of non-perishable food, new toys, or gently used clothing. This year, there’s a special call for gifts for teens.

The Santa Express schedule includes:

• Friday, Dec. 5 – Southeast Bend: Foxborough, Larkspur, Sun Meadow

• Saturday, Dec. 6 – Northwest Bend: Three Pines, Westside Meadows, Shevlin Ridge

• Monday, Dec. 8 – Southwest Bend: Pine Ridge, River Canyon, Aspen Rim

Full route info is at bendoregon.gov/santa-express. If you miss the Express, you can still donate non-perishable food items to any Bend Fire station through Friday, Dec. 12. All donations will benefit NeighborImpact’s food distribution programs across Central Oregon.

Regional News…

City of Bend Events Here

Road Construction

🐾 Pet of the Week: Lady – A True Golden Girl Looking for Love

Meet Lady, a gentle senior shepherd mix with a heart full of love and a past she’s left behind. Rescued from rough conditions alongside a group of shepherd pups, Lady has shown nothing but resilience and grace. Her sweet, soulful eyes and calm demeanor will melt your heart.

Now she’s dreaming of a peaceful forever home where she can be pampered, adored, and finally enjoy the cozy retirement she deserves. Lady is the perfect quiet companion—great with cats, calm dogs, and respectful older kids. If you’ve got a soft spot and a comfy spot, Lady is ready to fill your home with warmth and unconditional love.

📍 Breed: Shepherd Mix
🎀 Gender: Female
🎂 Age: Senior
👧 Kids: Yes, older preferred
🐱 Cats: Yes
🐶 Dogs: Yes, if calm

Ready to give this lovely lady the soft landing she’s waited for? She’s ready to meet you. 💛 see Lady’s Adoption page here - CCREW Lady

 😎Just sayin

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