From the Editor

Welcome to this edition of Central Oregon Local Buzz, your trusted source for concise and informative summaries of the latest local news and events. This week, we explore the newly unveiled 2026 High Desert Food Trail, which aims to highlight the culinary excellence of our region. Additionally, we cover the sentencing of a former corrections officer involved in a poaching case, a fire incident sparked by a Roman candle fight leading to arrests in Bend, Bend Park & Recreation's caution against bridge jumping, and the annual Deschutes River cleanup by divers. Highlights also include a young BMX rider from Central Oregon qualifying for the World Championships, a temporary closure of Redmond's Centennial Park due to a chlorine leak, goats aiding in managing the Crooked River Ranch brush fire, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new casino in Madras, and the reopening of Whychus Canyon Preserve after almost a year.

📰Local News Featured

🌾 Explore Central Oregon with the New 2026 High Desert Food Trail

Central Oregon has just unveiled its latest culinary attraction with the release of the 2026 High Desert Food Trail. This self-guided tour promises to take food enthusiasts on a journey through the region's diverse and rich food scene, offering a taste of locally sourced ingredients and specialties unique to the area. From farm-to-table experiences to artisanal makers, the trail highlights the unique flavors and culinary talents that Central Oregon has to offer.

The trail includes a variety of stops that showcase Central Oregon's agricultural bounty, including organic farms, breweries, distilleries, and gourmet food shops. Each location provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the local food production process and enjoy tastings that celebrate the harvest of the high desert. The trail aims to support local businesses and promote sustainable tourism by encouraging visitors to engage with local producers and explore the rural landscapes that contribute to the region's culinary identity.

For those interested in a quick yet immersive dive into Central Oregon's food culture, the High Desert Food Trail is an ideal itinerary. It offers both locals and visitors a chance to experience and support the local economy in an engaging way. With numerous culinary options available, the trail is a celebration of innovation and tradition, aiming to capture the essence of what makes the region's food scene so vibrant and unique.

With its release, the 2026 High Desert Food Trail is set to become a must-visit destination for food lovers. It's not just about tasting exceptional food—it's about understanding the story behind each dish and the people who make it possible. This initiative is poised to enrich Central Oregon's cultural landscape and elevate its status as a foodie destination worth exploring.

🚨Crime News

🦌Former Corrections Officer Sentenced in Poaching Case

A former Oregon Department of Corrections officer has been sentenced following one of the state's largest serial poaching investigations in recent years. Christopher Matson, 48, of Umatilla County pleaded guilty in two separate cases stemming from a multi-county investigation that uncovered the illegal killing and possession of numerous big game animals, including black bears, deer, and elk. Investigators also found violations involving false tag applications, hunting during prohibited hours, and illegal firearms.

Combined, Matson was sentenced to probation, ordered to complete 300 hours of community service, permanently lost his hunting privileges, forfeited firearms and other seized property, and was fined more than $114,000. Oregon prosecutors described the case as one of the most significant wildlife crime cases ever attributed to a single individual, citing the extensive impact on Oregon's wildlife resources.

🎆 Roman Candle Fight Sparks Fire, Leads to Two Arrests in Bend

Two Bend men were arrested on the Fourth of July after allegedly shooting Roman candle fireworks at each other, igniting a fire outside a business in the 100 block of SE Logsden Street. The fire started in a pile of wooden pallets located near several propane tanks, but firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze before it could spread or cause more serious damage.

After reviewing security camera footage, Bend Police determined the fire was sparked by the exchange of fireworks. Charles Ryan Romig, 34, was arrested on suspicion of reckless endangering, while Tyson Peter Graham, 45, was arrested on suspicion of reckless endangering, reckless burning, and criminal conspiracy. Officials also reminded residents that all fireworks are prohibited within Bend city limits.

⛰️Bend

🌉 Bend Park & Recreation Urges Public: No Bridge Jumping

The Bend Park & Recreation District is reminding residents and visitors that bridge jumping is prohibited in all Bend parks and is far more dangerous than it may appear. District officials say they've already seen more bridge jumpers this summer than in previous years, raising concerns as low river levels and drought conditions have created even greater hazards beneath the water's surface.

Officials warn that what seems like a fun summer activity can quickly result in serious injuries or worse due to shallow water, submerged rocks, and other hidden obstacles. The district is asking everyone to enjoy the Deschutes River safely by staying off bridges and following posted safety rules while recreating on the water.

🌊 Divers Return to Mirror Pond for 30th Annual Deschutes River Cleanup

For the first time in about 15 years, scuba divers will return to Mirror Pond during the 30th annual Deschutes River Cleanup this Saturday. Volunteers in Bend and Sunriver will work together to remove trash, invasive weeds, and other debris from the river, with divers and paddlers focusing on the long-neglected stretch through Mirror Pond.

Past cleanups have uncovered everything from bicycles, chairs, and a canoe to a wood stove and even two firearms that were turned over to the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office. While online registration has closed, organizers say volunteers are still welcome to join the effort by checking in Saturday morning at Farewell Bend Park.

🚴 9-Year-Old Central Oregon BMX Rider Earns Spot at World Championships

A talented 9-year-old BMX racer from Central Oregon is headed to the world stage after qualifying for the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships in Brisbane, Australia. The young rider secured a place on Team USA through strong performances during the national qualifying season and will compete against some of the best young BMX athletes from around the globe later this month.

The opportunity is the result of years of dedication, training, and support from family and the local BMX community. As the rider prepares for the international competition, friends, teammates, and supporters are rallying behind the young athlete, who will proudly represent both Central Oregon and the United States at one of the sport's biggest events.

✈️Redmond

🧪 Chlorine Leak Temporarily Closed Redmond's Centennial Park

A small chlorine leak temporarily closed Centennial Park in Redmond on Monday morning after city staff discovered the leak at approximately 11:14 a.m. Emergency crews secured the area while the Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Team from Salem responded to assist with cleanup. Officials said the chlorine odor was noticeable nearby, but the leak remained contained and did not pose a broader threat to the community.

The park remained closed for several hours as crews worked to safely resolve the incident. No injuries were reported. Redmond Police also reminded residents that if they ever smell gas or discover a suspected chemical leak, they should report it to non-emergency dispatch rather than investigating it themselves.

🐐 Goats Helped Slow Crooked River Ranch Brush Fire

A brush fire in Crooked River Ranch was contained after burning near homes in the Peninsula area, with firefighters crediting earlier goat grazing for helping slow the spread. Crews responded Monday afternoon and were able to stop the fire before it reached nearby structures.

Fire officials said the goats had reduced dry vegetation in the area, creating a natural fuel break that helped crews get the fire under control more quickly. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

🪶Madras

✂️🎀Ribbon-cutting Ceremony Celebrates New Casino in Madras

The new casino in Madras held its ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant development in the local entertainment landscape. This event was attended by notable community leaders and residents, who gathered to witness the unveiling of this latest attraction. The casino is set to feature a variety of gaming options, dining experiences, and live entertainment, promising to draw visitors from within and beyond Central Oregon.

This new addition is expected to boost the local economy by creating jobs and increasing tourism in the area. Residents and visitors alike are excited about the prospect of a fresh entertainment venue that offers new leisure opportunities. This development underscores Madras's growing appeal as a destination, enhancing its vibrancy and contributing positively to the community's economic growth.

🌲Sisters

🥾 Whychus Canyon Preserve Reopens After Nearly a Year

Hikers can once again explore Whychus Canyon Preserve near Sisters after it officially reopened Monday, nearly a year after the 2025 Flat Fire forced its closure. Crews spent months removing hazardous trees, repairing damaged trails, and making the 930-acre preserve safe for visitors following the wildfire.

While all trails are now open, the Deschutes Land Trust is asking visitors to use extra caution. Burned landscapes can still contain unstable trees, loose rocks, and other hazards, and recovery efforts will continue as the area heals. The preserve offers more than seven miles of trails through scenic canyons, restored creek habitat, and sweeping views along Whychus Creek.

This edition offers insights into both the joyous community endeavors and concerning incidents in our region. Stay informed and engaged with these pivotal events shaping life in Central Oregon. Thank you for joining us this week, and stay safe!