From the Editor

Welcome to another edition of Central Oregon Local Buzz. In each edition, we curate local news and events in short, easy-to-read summaries. This week, we are talking about the generous donation from 100+ Women Who Care of Central Oregon, nearly $20,000 to M Perfectly. Exciting events include multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans performing at the Deschutes County Fair in July. Also on our radar is the Prineville BLM District's update about Teaters Road access and the guilty plea of a second suspect in a 2020 Bend couple's killing.

We have some feel-good business news as Sisters Coffee opens a new Jackstraw location in Bend, and the Bend Park & Recreation District plans to name its new office and operations facility. The Cascade Cycling Classic urgently needs volunteers. Keep the Earth healthy by celebrating Earth Day with SNCO. On the arts front, don't miss performances by American Buffalo, Sierra Hull, and She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition. There are invaluable education moments, such as the Redmond fourth graders learning perseverance through music and the much-anticipated local library coming to Culver. Also, the U.S. Secretary of Education made a special visit to the Crook County School District. Plus, let's not forget to highlight the noble work of Rescue Dogs Oregon.

💖🐾Pet of The Week

Meet Clemon: Your New Best Friend

If you've been considering adopting a pet, Stree Dog Hero offers a golden opportunity. The organization works tirelessly to rehome dogs from overcrowded shelters, giving them a second chance at life. Their adoption events often see enthusiastic community involvement, showcasing that Central Oregon is a beacon of hope for these canines.

Street Dog Hero has built a reputation for finding forever homes for dogs in need. The organization collaborates with local shelters and utilizes a network of volunteers to ensure that no dog is left behind. These efforts not only alleviate pressure on shelters but also foster a community spirit centered on compassion and responsibility.

For Central Oregon residents, adopting a dog from SDH means more than welcoming a new family member. It signifies actively participating in a broader community movement that prioritizes animal welfare. These dogs, in turn, enrich the lives of their adopters through companionship and unconditional love. The successful integration of rescue dogs into local families strengthens the bond within our community and emphasizes our collective commitment to a more humane society.

Meet Clemon!

Clemon is a handsome young adult Hound boy who's looking for his special home. Clemon and Clancy were found as strays and brought into the Prineville Humane Society. They think that they might have been dumped as puppies. He's currently in temporary foster care here in Bend. He's cleared for adoption and ready to join his new family for those exciting adventures to come.

Will you be his hero?

This approximately 1.5-year-old male Red Tick Hound is a medium-to-large dog, weighing around 50–60 pounds at his last check-in. He is neutered and up to date on his core vaccinations, though he is not currently microchipped. Overall, he’s in good health with no known medical concerns.

In terms of personality, he can be a bit timid when first meeting new people but warms up quickly and becomes friendly and social. He has done well living with a pack of other dogs, suggesting he could be a great fit for a multi-dog household. His interactions with cats and children are currently unknown, as he hasn’t been tested in those situations yet.

He is both house-trained and crate-trained, which gives him a great foundation for transitioning into a new home. However, he hasn’t had formal leash training yet, and information about known commands or food motivation is not currently available. With continued guidance and consistency, he has strong potential to thrive in a home that can help build his confidence and continue his basic training.

⛰️Bend

Sisters Coffee Opens New Spot in Bend

Sisters Coffee has opened a new Jackstraw location in Bend, bringing a beloved local coffee experience to a prime area of the city. This expansion is part of their ongoing effort to make their popular offerings more accessible to Central Oregon residents and visitors. The new spot is expected to attract a steady stream of coffee lovers, eager to enjoy a taste of Sisters in the heart of Bend.

For locals, this means more than just another place to grab a caffeine fix. It symbolizes local growth and the strengthening of community-oriented businesses. Residents who frequent the area now have another quality option for their coffee needs, while also supporting a homegrown company known for its sustainably sourced beans and warm ambiance.

A New Hub for Bend Park & Recreation District

The Bend Park & Recreation District is getting ready to name its new office and operations facility. This development underscores the district’s ongoing commitment to improving local infrastructure and enhancing community resources. The new facility is expected to consolidate operations and provide a central hub for district activities, streamlining their initiatives across the area.

For Bend residents, this is more than just a new building—it's a promise of improved services and enhanced public amenities. The centralized facility is anticipated to contribute to more efficient park management, which translates to better maintained and accessible parks and recreational spaces for everyone in the community.

Volunteers Needed for Cascade Cycling Classic

The Cascade Cycling Classic is on the lookout for volunteers, a call-to-action for locals to engage in one of Central Oregon’s most iconic sporting events. Volunteering opportunities range from helping with race logistics to supporting athletes and ensuring the smooth operation of this celebrated event, which attracts competitors and spectators from around the globe.

This is an excellent opportunity for Bend residents to get involved and support a major event in the local sports calendar. By participating, volunteers not only contribute to the success of the event but also embody the community spirit that makes Bend a unique and welcoming place. It’s a chance to meet new people, enjoy the thrill of the race, and take pride in regional camaraderie.

✈️Redmond

Stewardship Takes Center Stage at Smith Rock

Smith Rock is once again the place to be for community-focused stewardship as the annual Spring Thing event approaches this Saturday. Organized by dedicated volunteers, this event will bring together residents from across the region to participate in trail maintenance, cleanup efforts, and community building activities aimed at preserving one of Central Oregon's most treasured natural areas.

This event is significant for locals because it highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving the natural beauty that surrounds Redmond. By participating, residents not only contribute to the conservation of a beloved landmark but also get an opportunity to foster community bonds through meaningful collective action.

Redmond Fourth Graders Find Rhythm and Resilience

In an inspiring educational effort, fourth graders in Redmond are learning valuable life lessons through music. Teaming up with Cajun musicians, these young students are gaining firsthand exposure to the art of music as well as core principles of perseverance and resilience.

This music program matters to Central Oregon residents because it emphasizes the value of teaching children not just academic skills but also important character traits. By investing in well-rounded education programs, the community is helping to develop future leaders who are resilient, adaptable, and culturally aware.

🪶Madras

New Library Set to Open in Culver

Residents of Culver will soon have a new place to explore literature and learning, as plans for a local library have been announced. This development marks a significant milestone for the community, which has long awaited greater access to books and educational resources. The library is expected to serve as a hub for cultural activities, educational programs, and community gatherings, making it a central point for residents of all ages.

This new library matters greatly to people in Central Oregon, especially those living in nearby areas who currently have limited access to such resources. With a local library, community members will have enhanced opportunities for literacy, education, and personal development. Additionally, the library is set to become a community center where people can meet, share knowledge, and engage in cultural activities, thereby strengthening the communal bonds within the region.

🐎Prineville

U.S. Secretary of Education Visits Crook County Schools

Prineville recently had the honor of welcoming the U.S. Secretary of Education, who visited the Crook County School District. This high-profile visit highlighted the district's innovative educational programs and the effort being put into improving student outcomes. The Secretary walked through local schools, meeting with educators and students, and observing teaching methods and learning environments firsthand. Such visits are often a part of wider federal efforts to recognize and promote successful educational practices across different districts in the country.

For residents of Central Oregon, this visit underlines the importance and potential impact of educational developments in local communities. The Secretary's presence is not only a nod of validation for the hard work being done by the district but also signals potential opportunities for additional federal support or funding. This could mean more resources for education in Prineville, ultimately benefiting students and educators alike. It's a moment of pride and an opportunity for the community to showcase its commitment to educational excellence.

🚨Crime News

Second Suspect Pleads Guilty in Bend Couple's Killing

In a pivotal development concerning the tragic 2020 double homicide case in Bend, a second suspect has pled guilty. This plea adds another layer to the investigation following the earlier conviction of the primary suspect. The court proceedings have been watched closely by community members, many of whom are seeking closure and justice for the victims.

This case has been a scar on the Bend community, illustrating the undercurrents of crime that can surface in even the most seemingly peaceful environments. The resolution of this case is not only critical for the families affected but also for the local community's sense of safety and justice. Understanding and addressing such events can help in preventing future crimes and maintaining the tranquility Central Oregon is known for.

📆Featured Events

Celebrate Earth Day with the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory

Join the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory on April 22nd from 10 AM to 3 PM for a lively Earth Day celebration that's perfect for the whole family. This event offers an opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, partake in educational workshops, and learn about sustainable practices that help protect our beautiful region. Whether you're looking to become more eco-friendly or simply want to enjoy a fun day out, this event promises to educate and inspire. It's a great way to engage with your community while making a positive impact on the environment. Don’t miss the chance to participate and learn how you can contribute to a sustainable future right here in Central Oregon.

📆Upcoming Events

👀Worth Checking Out

Thanks for joining us in exploring the vibrant stories shaping Central Oregon this week. Whether it's community generosity, cultural events, or educational developments, there's always something exciting happening. Stay tuned for more updates and activities in our next edition. Happy exploring!