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In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

 🍺 Zwickelmania Hits Central Oregon This Saturday — Full Brewery List & What’s Happening

 ❤️🐾 CCREW Adoption Event

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

  🩺 St. Charles Covers Tuition to Hire Up to 70 Medical Assistants

❄️ Meissner Snow Dragon Build Canceled Due to Conditions

❄️ Avalanche Danger “Considerable” Above Tree Line in Central Oregon Backcountry

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🚨Crime News

  🚔 Knife-Wielding Suspect Arrested After Attempted Break-In Along Hwy 20

 🚨 Bend Police Seek Possible Additional Victims in Sex Abuse Case

 🚗 Rocks, Concrete Thrown Onto Highway 97 — Cars Damaged, No Injuries

🚔 7+ Pounds of Meth Seized in Traffic Stop; Redmond Woman Arrested

🥰Community News

📰Regional News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🏘💼Real Estate & Business News

🏘📊Central Oregon Market Report by Reed Melton

 🌆 Prineville Could Expand Urban Growth Boundary to Support Thousands of Jobs

🏠 $1,000 a Month Program Helping Central Oregon Families Move Into Permanent Housing

📦 Point Blank Distributing to Close in Bend & Eugene, ~150 Jobs Lost

🏍️ After 26 Years, Wildhorse Harley-Davidson Kawasaki in Bend Closes

🍽️ Bend’s Jackalope Grill Rebrands as Rosemary & Fox

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

✅ Answer: D) Lost Lake

Expanded Answer:
If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone — and depending on the time of year, you might not even see it. The disappearing lake near Santiam Pass fills with snowmelt and winter rains, then drains away through lava tubes and volcanic fissures in the lakebed as summer approaches.

By late summer, what was once a reflective alpine lake can shrink dramatically or become mostly meadow, only to refill again with the return of fall storms and winter snow. It’s one of Central Oregon’s coolest geological quirks — and a reminder that our region’s volcanic past still shapes the landscape today.

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

FEATURED EVENT

🍺 Zwickelmania Hits Central Oregon This Saturday — Full Brewery List & What’s Happening

Zwickelmania — Oregon’s annual statewide brewery open-house event — returns Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, turning taprooms into tasting halls with zwickel pours (fresh beer straight from the tank), behind-the-scenes tours, brewer meet-ups, specialty releases and food pairings. It’s one of the best chances all year to sample rare beers, explore production spaces, and hang with local brewers in a low-key celebration of craft brewing. (oregoncraftbeer.org)

Here’s the complete list of Central Oregon breweries participating this year (and worth a stop if you’re making the Zwickelmania loop):
• Bevel Craft Brewing (Bend) — zwickel pours and brewery vibes.
• Boneyard Beer (Bend) — new releases, zwickel samples and self-guided tours.
• Spider City Brewing (Bend) — brewer-led sampling and specials.
• Crux Fermentation Project (Bend) — special beers + barrel/tank tastes.
• Deschutes Brewery – Bend Production Facility (Bend) — free samples and facility looks.
• Sunriver Brewing Company (Sunriver) — limited beers and fun pairings.
• Wild Ride Brewing (Redmond & Prineville) — zwickel pours and beer-and-snack pairings.
• UPP Liquids (Bend) — zwickel samples and brewery hospitality.
• Worthy Brewing (Bend) — brewer tours, samples and extras.
• Terranaut Beer (Bend) — special release + meet the brewer.

Many of these breweries will offer special releases, food collaborations, swag and behind-the-scenes access you won’t see on a normal Saturday — it’s a great way to taste the breadth of Central Oregon’s craft beer scene in one spirited day. Be sure to check each brewery’s social channels for exact pour lists, event times and any reservations or wristband details.

❤️🐾 CCREW Adoption Event

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Local News…

 🩺 St. Charles Covers Tuition to Hire Up to 70 Medical Assistants

St. Charles Health System is stepping up to fill a growing need for medical assistants in Central Oregon by offering to pay the tuition and fees for people who want to earn their medical assistant certification through Central Oregon Community College. The incentive covers the full cost of the program and includes a stipend to help with living expenses while students train, with the goal of hiring up to 70 medical assistants over the next year. Those accepted into the funded programs commit to working for St. Charles for at least two years after graduation. (St. Charles Health)

The new initiative aims to address staffing shortages, especially in outpatient clinics where medical assistants play a key role supporting providers, preparing patients and performing clinical tasks like blood draws and EKGs. St. Charles will offer funding for 10 students in an accelerated six-month track starting in June and 20 students in a traditional nine-month program beginning in September. The system also continues to hire pre-certified medical assistants who can train on the job while earning their credential. (St. Charles Health)

❄️ Meissner Snow Dragon Build Canceled Due to Conditions

Organizers of the Meissner Snow Dragon build announced the event has been canceled this year because of unseasonably warm temperatures and poor snow conditions. The annual winter tradition — where teams construct giant snow sculptures and whimsical “dragons” — depends on sustained cold and ample snow, neither of which has materialized this season. Event leaders say the safety of participants and the quality of the final builds would have been compromised, so they made the tough call to call it off.

While disappointed attendees and builders will have to wait another year, organizers are already encouraging the community to save the date for next season and are exploring alternative winter activities that can work with variable weather. They also thanked sponsors and volunteers for their continued support and say they look forward to returning with a bigger celebration when conditions are right.

❄️ Avalanche Danger “Considerable” Above Tree Line in Central Oregon Backcountry

According to the latest forecast from the Central Oregon Avalanche Center, avalanche danger is currently rated as considerable above treeline across Central Oregon’s high country this week, meaning human-triggered avalanches are likely and careful decision-making in steep, exposed terrain is essential before you head out. This level of hazard indicates unstable snow conditions where slopes steeper than about 30–35° are particularly prone to release avalanches, so sticking to lower-angle terrain and minimizing exposure to avalanche paths is strongly advised. (Central Oregon Avalanche Center)

Near and below treeline, conditions are generally less risky but still demand caution — unstable wind-slab and storm-slab snow layers can exist near treeline and trigger slides if disturbed. While backcountry trips can still be enjoyed, experts recommend checking the full detailed avalanche forecast and travel advice before planning any routes, using proper safety gear and conservative terrain choices. (Central Oregon Avalanche Center)

Fire & Rescue…

Crime News…

🚔 Knife-Wielding Suspect Arrested After Attempted Break-In Along Hwy 20

Deschutes County deputies responded just after 6 a.m. to a reported attempted break-in at a travel trailer off Highway 20 between Bend and Sisters. Investigators say 52-year-old Bradon Michael Planty tried to force his way into the trailer, where a couple is temporarily living while their home is for sale. Planty allegedly broke a window, threatened to kill the couple and used a knife during the confrontation, injuring the female victim. Authorities say she armed herself in self-defense and was able to keep Planty from gaining entry for several tense minutes until deputies arrived. She was treated at the scene and declined transport to the hospital.

Planty left before law enforcement reached the property but was located nearby. Deputies say he resisted arrest and assaulted a peace officer before being taken into custody. He was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on multiple felony charges, including first- and second-degree assault, assault on a public safety officer, unlawful use of a weapon, coercion and burglary, along with several additional charges. The investigation remains ongoing, and further charges could be added.

 🚨 Bend Police Seek Possible Additional Victims in Sex Abuse Case

Bend Police detectives are asking the public’s help as they investigate a sex abuse case involving 31-year-old Bend resident Erick Nazario Aguirre. He was arrested Feb. 12 on suspicion of second-degree sexual abuse, sexual misconduct and contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor. According to investigators, the most recent arrest stems from an ongoing sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. Aguirre was previously arrested in September 2025 on suspicion of the same offenses involving the same minor.

Detectives say Aguirre also has a prior history involving underage girls. In 2018, he was arrested on suspicion of luring a minor for sexual conduct and online corruption of a child. He later pleaded guilty to three counts of luring a minor and served 90 days in jail. Investigators now believe there may be additional victims between 2018 and the present and are urging anyone with information to contact nonemergency dispatch at 541-693-6911.

 🚗 Rocks, Concrete Thrown Onto Highway 97 — Cars Damaged, No Injuries

Drivers on Highway 97 south of Bend were shaken but unhurt after rocks or pieces of concrete were reportedly thrown from a railroad overpass near the Baker Road exit early Sunday morning. At least two vehicles, including an Oregon State Police patrol car, had windshields shattered or dented, and debris was left scattered across the roadway. No one was injured, but drivers say the deliberate actions made an already hazardous stretch of highway feel even more dangerous. (KTVZ)

Local resident Karrie Newman recounted how her car was struck twice while she drove beneath the bridge, cracking her windshield and denting her hood. She described the moment as “very scary,” stressing that the acts go beyond harmless mischief and could have had far more serious consequences. Officials have not released suspect information and are asking anyone with tips or footage to contact law enforcement. (KTVZ)

🚔 7+ Pounds of Meth Seized in Traffic Stop; Redmond Woman Arrested

A traffic stop in Jefferson County led to a major drug bust tied to Deschutes County. On Feb. 12 around 7:11 p.m., Redmond Police Street Crimes detectives wrapped up an ongoing investigation when a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation and a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 alerted to the presence of drugs. A subsequent search uncovered more than seven pounds of methamphetamine. Investigators say the commercial quantity of drugs was intended for delivery in Deschutes County. A 59-year-old Redmond woman was arrested and lodged at the Jefferson County Adult Jail on charges of unlawful possession and unlawful delivery of methamphetamine (over 500 grams).

Redmond Police credited the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit for assisting with the investigation and arrest.

Community News…

 Regional News…

City of Bend Events Here

Road Construction

Friday’s

Real Estate & Business News

Sponsored by

Central Oregon Market Report | February 18, 2026

by Reed Melton from “EnjoyBendLife Real Estate Group”

Several factors have combined recently, indicating that 2026 will be the biggest year in Central Oregon housing since interest rates spiked in the second half of 2023. First, the national average for a 30-year fixed-rate conventional mortgage is 6.05% this morning, approaching the three-year low, and continuing the downward trend. Second, supply is steadily increasing, with all three Central Oregon counties reporting significant year-over-year increases. Anyone who engaged the housing market from 2020 to 2023 knows that severely constrained supply during that period made finding the right property challenging. More supply last year created more opportunities and, in turn, more sales. If buyer demand continues (it will), all indications point to more than 4,000 single-family sales in Deschutes County in 2026.

This morning in Deschutes County, there are 50 more listings than last week, bringing the total to 828. This week in 2025, there were 769 listings. Sixty-six sales are pending, up seven from last week. Only 26 of the pending sales reduced the asking price before securing a contract. Fifty-three transactions closed this week, with a sold-to-original-list-price ratio of 94.3%.

Crook County reports six additional listings this week, bringing the total to 153. This week in 2025, there were 144 listings. Four sales are pending this week, down five from last week. Only one of the pending sales reduced the asking price before securing a contract. Five transactions closed this week, up by two from last week. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 93.93%.

Jefferson County's inventory is up by one to 112 listings, an increase of fourteen from this week in 2025. Nine sales are pending, up by four from last week, and tying the most active week of 2026 so far. Five of the pending sales reduced the asking price before securing a contract. There were no closed transactions this week.

As new listings hit the market, the price-reduction ratio and days on market decline, and a higher percentage of new listings sell quickly without needing to reduce the asking price. Lenders are reporting an uptick in refinances as rates become more favorable, and sellers are entering the market in anticipation of a more favorable landscape for buyers this summer. While we are experiencing a taste of winter-like weather this week, spring is right around the corner, and longer days will mitigate the impacts of the weather as each day passes. Last weekend, I went on a hike and saw a bumblebee; interpret that however you wish!

Want a tailored market analysis for your neighborhood or price range? Request a custom report or schedule a consult: [email protected] 

Sign Up for the Central Oregon Market Report

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Active Listings

 🌆 Prineville Could Expand Urban Growth Boundary to Support Thousands of Jobs

A new city report suggests Prineville may need to expand its Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) to make room for long-term job growth and industrial development. The analysis forecasts the city could need land to support more than 2,700 projected jobs over the next 20 years, especially as employers — including manufacturing, tech and related businesses — seek space for facilities that require city services like water, sewer and transportation infrastructure. (Facebook)

City leaders say expanding the UGB would help ensure enough commercial and industrial land is available to attract and retain employers and help Prineville’s economy continue to grow. The proposal is part of ongoing planning discussions and still needs approval through public hearings and planning processes before any boundary changes move forward. (Facebook)

🏠 $1,000 a Month Program Helping Central Oregon Families Move Into Permanent Housing

Homelessness continues to weigh heavily on Central Oregon, but a state-backed program is showing measurable results. The Oregon Department of Human Services’ Direct Cash Transfer Plus (DCT) pilot — launched locally in partnership with J Bar J Youth Services — provided participants with $1,000 per month along with case management, housing support and job assistance. The program ran from March 2023 through February 2025, and by the end, 80% of Central Oregon participants had secured permanent housing, with most also finding employment.

For local mom Gabrielle Huffman, the program was life-changing. After years of homelessness beginning in her teens, Huffman said the monthly support and guidance gave her the stability she needed to move into a home with her daughter and enroll as a full-time student. DCT has since launched a second round locally with 40 new participants — and five months in, J Bar J reports that half have already found housing. Organizers say pairing direct cash with hands-on support is proving to be a powerful lifeline for families working to rebuild.

☀️ $1M Federal Boost for Floating Solar Near Prineville

The Ochoco Irrigation District has been awarded $1 million in federal funding to build a floating solar array near the Ochoco Reservoir, a project aimed at producing renewable energy while making use of existing water infrastructure. The array will stretch across a pond owned by the district and is expected to generate about 900 kilowatts of electricity — enough to help offset power costs for local homes, industry and agriculture. The design also has added environmental benefits: shading the water helps reduce evaporation and can improve water quality by limiting algae growth.

District leaders say they appreciate the support from Oregon’s congressional delegation and plan to move the project toward bidding and construction soon, with installation anticipated to begin this summer. In addition to generating clean energy, the community solar component will allow eligible residents — including low-income households — to subscribe and save on power bills.

🏍️ After 26 Years, Wildhorse Harley-Davidson Kawasaki in Bend Closes

One of Central Oregon’s long-standing motorcycle hubs has reached the end of the road. Wildhorse Harley-Davidson Kawasaki — a familiar sight off Highway 97 and a gathering spot for local riders for nearly 26 years — is closing its Bend location, marking the end of an era for enthusiasts and customers alike. The dealership thanked its community on social media for years of support, noting the building hosted countless bikes, laughs and late-night wrenching sessions over the decades. (facebook.com)

In saying goodbye, the business expressed deep gratitude to its loyal riders, calling them the reason they opened their doors each day. While specific reasons for the closure haven’t been detailed, the announcement has prompted an outpouring of appreciation from locals who remember the shop not just as a place to buy and service bikes, but as a social hub for Central Oregon’s riding community. (facebook.com)

📦 Point Blank Distributing to Close in Bend & Eugene, ~150 Jobs Lost

Point Blank Distributing announced plans to shut down its Bend and Eugene facilities, a move that will result in about 150 employees losing their jobs later this spring. The closures are part of a transition tied to the company’s acquisition by Columbia Distributing; while some roles in the larger organization may be filled going forward, many jobs at the local distribution hubs will be eliminated as operations wind down. (Brewbound)

The layoffs mark a significant change for the regional beverage distribution business, which has operated in multiple Oregon communities. Employees were notified under state layoff laws and are expected to be formally let go by March 31. Local leaders and job-seekers alike are now watching for workforce support and opportunities to re-employ affected workers elsewhere in the region. (Brewbound)

🍽️ Bend’s Jackalope Grill Rebrands as Rosemary & Fox

Bend’s beloved Jackalope Grill has a fresh look and name: it’s now Rosemary & Fox. The restaurant’s revamp includes a new menu and vibe while keeping the community-favorite spirit that regulars love. Owners say the rebrand reflects a refined culinary direction and invites guests to enjoy elevated dishes in a warm, inviting space—think seasonal ingredients, creative twists on classics, and thoughtful plating all wrapped up in a neighborhood atmosphere.

The transition isn’t just cosmetic; it’s part of a broader effort to sharpen the dining experience and better reflect the chefs’ vision. Locals can expect updated offerings that pair well with the restaurant’s relaxed yet polished ambiance. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, dinner or cocktails, the newly minted Rosemary & Fox aims to be a fresh favorite on Bend’s food scene.

 😎Just sayin

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