📰Drought Emergency, Red Light Cameras, and Local Music

Issue #470

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Phil’s Trail Trivia!

Phil’s Trail, one of Bend’s most iconic biking destinations, originally began as what?

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Correct Answer: B

🧠 Expanded Answer:
Phil’s Trail was originally a game trail discovered in the mid-1980s by local surveyor and trail pioneer Phil Meglasson. What started as a simple path used by wildlife eventually grew—through local riders and builders—into the foundation of Bend’s now world-famous mountain biking trail network, spanning hundreds of miles across Central Oregon.

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GOOD MORNING

 

 

 

Central Oregon Local Buzz
Central Oregon Local Buzz
Central Oregon Local Buzz
April 24, 2026
Drought Emergency, Red Light Cameras, and Local Music
From the Editor
Central Oregon Local Buzz delivers weekly local news and events in short, easy-to-read summaries. This week: Governor declares drought emergency across nine counties including Crook County, teens arrested for airsoft gun incidents at Old Mill District, a Madras man's killer receives 25-year sentence, the Bend Homegrown Festival brings 40 bands to town, red light cameras catch 350 violations in their first five days, and the Deschutes County Commissioners debate a homeless camp plan.
📰Local News Featured
Governor Declares Drought Emergency in Crook County and Eight Others
Oregon's Governor has officially declared a drought emergency in Crook County along with eight other counties across the state. This declaration marks a significant escalation in response to ongoing water shortage conditions affecting the region.

The drought emergency declaration gives state officials expanded authority to manage water resources and implement emergency measures. Counties included in this declaration face severe precipitation deficits and depleted water supplies that threaten agricultural operations, municipal water systems, and natural resources throughout the affected areas.

For Central Oregon residents, this means potential restrictions on water usage, increased costs for irrigation and household water, and possible impacts on outdoor activities and landscaping. Farmers and ranchers in Crook County should prepare for limitations on water allocation and may need to adjust planting schedules or livestock management practices accordingly.

The declaration underscores the critical water challenges facing Central Oregon as climate patterns continue to stress the region's water supply. Local communities and businesses should review their water conservation practices and stay informed about any upcoming restrictions or emergency measures from county officials.

Read more →

⛑️Fire & Rescue News
Hiker Rescued on South Sister After Medical Emergency
On Wednesday, April 22, at 4:45 p.m., the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue unit responded to a medical emergency involving a hiker on South Sister. The hiker experienced a sudden medical issue and required immediate assistance from trained rescue personnel. Swift response from the team ensured the individual received the care needed in a timely manner.

This incident is a reminder for all outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared when venturing into Central Oregon's backcountry. Hikers should carry communication devices, inform others of their planned route and expected return time, and be aware of their physical limitations. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office encourages residents to stay alert to emergency notifications and review safety protocols before heading out on local trails.
🚨Crime News
Teens Arrested for Airsoft Gun Incidents at Old Mill District
Bend police arrested several teenagers for shooting airsoft guns at people in the Old Mill District area. The teens were targeting individuals with the replica firearms, creating a safety concern in the popular shopping and entertainment area that draws crowds daily.

If you frequent Old Mill District or have family members who do, this is a reminder to stay alert and report suspicious activity to police. Airsoft guns can look realistic and cause panic in public spaces, which is why law enforcement takes these incidents seriously.

Read more →


Madras Man's Killer Sentenced to 25 Years
A suspect in the kidnapping and death of a Madras man received a 25-year prison sentence. The conviction followed a serious criminal investigation that impacted the local community and the victim's family.

This closure marks an important milestone for the Madras community and the victim's loved ones after a difficult legal process. Central Oregon residents should know that law enforcement and the justice system worked to hold the perpetrator accountable for this violent crime.

Read more →

⛰️Bend
Fired Sheriff Captain's Case Goes to Arbitration
A former Deschutes County sheriff captain's termination case is moving forward through advisory arbitration. The process allows an independent arbitrator to hear arguments from both the county and the fired captain before making a recommendation on whether the firing was justified.

Arbitration gives employees a formal channel to challenge terminations and can result in reinstatement, back pay, or settlement agreements. The outcome could impact how the sheriff's office handles personnel decisions and set precedent for future disputes with county employees.

Read more →


Bend Homegrown Festival Brings 40 Bands to Town
The Bend Homegrown music festival is returning with 40 bands, with a heavy focus on local artists performing across multiple venues. The festival celebrates the region's music scene and gives Central Oregon musicians a platform to showcase their work.

For music fans, it's a chance to discover new local talent and support the community's creative economy. The festival brings foot traffic to downtown venues and restaurants while strengthening Bend's reputation as a vibrant cultural hub.

Read more →


Red Light Cameras Catch 350 Violations in First Five Days
Bend's newly installed red light cameras recorded 350 traffic violations in their first five days of operation. The high number suggests serious compliance issues at intersections where the cameras are positioned, with drivers regularly running red lights despite visible signage about enforcement.

The cameras are designed to improve intersection safety and reduce collisions, but the violation count raises questions about driver awareness and whether stricter traffic enforcement is needed. Drivers should expect tickets for red light violations as the city prioritizes traffic safety.

Read more →

✈️Redmond
Deschutes County Commissioners Split on Homeless Camp Plan
Deschutes County commissioners are divided over a proposed homeless camp in Redmond, with disagreement emerging over how to address homelessness in the area. The Desert Rise project has become a point of contention among board members, reflecting broader concerns about the best approach to managing homelessness in Central Oregon.

How the county handles this decision will shape local homeless services for years to come. The outcome affects not only unhoused residents but also neighborhood concerns, resources, and the county's overall strategy for addressing housing insecurity.

Read more →


Oregon Lightning Kicks Off Home Season at Roberts Field
The Oregon Lightning professional soccer team is gearing up for their home opener in Redmond, bringing collegiate-level soccer to the community. The team's arrival at Roberts Field adds a new sports option for Central Oregon residents looking for live entertainment and competitive athletics.

Read more →

🏘️Real Estate
April Market Report Shows Central Oregon Trends - by Reed Melton
The latest Central Oregon market report from April reveals how prices, inventory, and buyer activity are shifting across the region. Market reports track these metrics to give buyers and sellers current data on what to expect when entering the market right now.

Whether you're thinking about selling, buying, or just curious about your home's value, these monthly reports help you understand timing and positioning in Central Oregon's competitive real estate landscape.

Read more →


Madras Adds 16 New Townhomes to Housing Stock
A new neighborhood development in Madras is bringing 16 townhomes to the market, expanding housing options in the community. The project represents a direct response to Central Oregon's ongoing housing demand and continues the trend of residential growth spreading beyond Bend.

For Madras residents and those priced out of Bend's market, this development offers another pathway to homeownership in the region. New construction townhomes typically appeal to first-time buyers and downsizers looking for lower maintenance and more affordable entry points compared to single-family homes.

Read more →

📆Featured Events
Syco Billy's String Band
Syco Billy's String Band brings high-energy bluegrass and country music to Central Oregon, offering a perfect night out for live music fans looking for authentic string band performances. Whether you're craving foot-tapping fiddle, banjo picking, or classic country harmonies, this show delivers the kind of genuine local entertainment that keeps our community's music scene vibrant. Mark your calendar and grab your tickets to experience some serious musical talent.

Read more →

More News…

City of Bend Adopts Residential Wildfire Mitigation Building Code, Effective May 15
Read more

Bend Wilson Avenue Closure Enters Final Phase
Read more

Bend Volcano Preparedness Seminar Set for April 29
Read more

Golden Mussels Found on Boat Entering Oregon Spark Invasion Concerns
Read more

Several Oregon Cities Rank Among Most Particle-Polluted in the United States: American Lung Association “State of the Air” Report 2026
Read more

 Road Construction Links

 

 

Bend

Redmond

Deschutes County

Oregon Department of Transportation Region 4 

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