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In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

 🎉 Bingo Night Now Every Monday in Redmond!

 🎶 Alpenglow Nights Returns with Free Summer Concert Series in Bend

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

  🏕️ Madras Moves to Enforce Homeless Camping Rules After Camp Cleanup

✈️ Oregon Adds High-Tech Aircraft to Boost Wildfire & Emergency Response

  💔 Central Oregon Veterans Outreach Mourns Loss of Executive Director

 🌳 Sylvan Park Getting Major Upgrade with New Playground in Bend

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🚨Crime News

 🚨 Redmond Man Indicted on Child Exploitation Charges After Multi-Agency Investigation

 🚨 Overnight Car Prowls Hit La Pine Neighborhood, Dozens of Vehicles Targeted

🥰Community News

📰Regional News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

 🚧Overnight construction begins March 29 on U.S. 20 in Sisters

🏘💼Real Estate & Business News

🏘📊Central Oregon Market Report by Reed Melton

🛍️ Another Old Mill Shop Closing as Bend Retail Shifts

 🌱 $500K in Tourism Dollars Funding Bend Sustainability Projects

🛍️ Vintage Vibes: Elk Vintage Opening First Store in Old Mill District

 🥯 New Bagel Deli Coming to Bend with Fresh, Family-Inspired Menu

 🍔 Bend’s SuperDeluxe Drive-Thru Closes Its Doors

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

Answer: C) 4

Expanded Answer:
Bend has hosted minor league teams affiliated with four different MLB organizations: the California Angels, Oakland Athletics, Philadelphia Phillies, and Colorado Rockies. Teams representing those affiliations included the Bend Rainbows, Bend Timber Hawks, Central Oregon Phillies, and Bend Rockies—all of which played at what is now Vince Genna Stadium.

Many people remember only three affiliations, but the 1978 Bend Timber Hawks, affiliated with the Oakland Athletics, played just one season and are often overlooked. That short-lived team is what makes the correct total four, not three.

BONUS Question:

Answer: C) Kurt Russell

Expanded Answer:
Before becoming a major Hollywood star, Kurt Russell played second base for the Bend Rainbows in 1971. He hit .285 that season and remains one of the most unique and unexpected players to ever suit up in Central Oregon.

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

FEATURED EVENT

🎉 Bingo Night Now Every Monday in Redmond!

Monday nights just got a whole lot more fun! Bingo is now happening every Monday in partnership with both the Opportunity Foundation and the Central Oregon Veterans Ranch.

Head over to Dry Canyon Club, with games kicking off at 6:00 PM. It’s the perfect way to start your week—enjoy a great night out while supporting two incredible local organizations.

Bring your friends, test your luck, and make Monday night Bingo your new weekly tradition! 🎱

 🎶 Alpenglow Nights Returns with Free Summer Concert Series in Bend

Bend’s popular Alpenglow Nights concert series is back for summer 2026, bringing five weeks of free live music to Alpenglow Park. The Thursday night series runs from May 21 through June 25, featuring a mix of genres—from blues and soul to jazz, funk, and jamgrass—alongside local food vendors and family-friendly activities. Organizers say the goal is to create a laid-back community gathering where people can enjoy music, food, and Central Oregon’s scenic evenings. (Alpenglow Nights)

This year’s lineup includes acts like The Muddy Souls, The Brandon Campbell Trio, Race to the Light, Object Heavy, and The Hank Shreve Band, with performances typically running from 5 to 8 p.m. Each night showcases multiple artists, giving attendees a variety of sounds throughout the evening. The free series has quickly become a staple of Bend’s summer events scene, offering a relaxed, bring-your-own-chair vibe perfect for families and music lovers alike. (Alpenglow Nights)

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Event Sources:

Deschutes Public Library Events

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Bend Magazine Event Listings

Visit Redmond Event Listings

Local News…

🏕️ Madras Moves to Enforce Homeless Camping Rules After Camp Cleanup

City leaders in Madras are stepping up enforcement of the city’s homeless camping ordinance following the cleanup of a camp behind the Madras Shelter earlier this week. Officials say the action is part of a broader effort to ensure camping rules are being followed, including restrictions that limit camping to specific locations and time-frames—generally overnight only, from one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise.

The council is now focused on creating more consistent enforcement while balancing public safety, sanitation concerns, and available shelter options. City code allows camping only under certain conditions, particularly when shelter space is unavailable, and requires proper notice before camps are removed. Leaders say ongoing coordination will be key as they work to manage impacts on both the homeless community and surrounding areas.

✈️ Oregon Adds High-Tech Aircraft to Boost Wildfire & Emergency Response

Oregon is upgrading its wildfire response with a new multi-mission aircraft designed to detect fires faster and improve coordination across the state. The aircraft replaces a plane that had been in service for more than 30 years and brings major upgrades in range, endurance, and the ability to carry personnel and equipment—allowing crews to cover more ground and respond more quickly to emerging incidents.

What sets the new aircraft apart is its advanced technology, including AI-powered mapping, thermal imaging, and real-time data systems that can identify fires earlier and track their behavior more precisely—even at night. Officials say it will also support other emergencies like floods, search and rescue, and disaster response, giving Oregon a more unified and faster all-hazards response as wildfire seasons grow longer and more complex.

 💔 Central Oregon Veterans Outreach Mourns Loss of Executive Director

Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO) is mourning the loss of its longtime executive director, Kathy Skidmore, who passed away following a lengthy battle with cancer. Skidmore was widely known for her dedication to supporting veterans across the region, helping lead efforts to provide housing assistance, outreach services, and critical resources for those in need.

Community members and colleagues remember her as a passionate advocate who played a key role in expanding COVO’s impact throughout Central Oregon. Her leadership helped strengthen programs aimed at reducing veteran homelessness and connecting individuals with essential services, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the community she served.

 🌳 Sylvan Park Getting Major Upgrade with New Playground in Bend

One of Bend’s highest-elevation parks is getting a major facelift, with a $600,000 renovation underway at Sylvan Park on Awbrey Butte. The project will replace the aging playground—originally built in the early 1990s—with modern play structures, improved surfacing, and updated park features designed to better serve the growing neighborhood.

In addition to the new playground, the upgrade will improve accessibility with better pathways from the parking area and refreshed gathering spaces for families. The renovation is expected to wrap up by summer 2026, giving the popular neighborhood park a much-needed refresh while maintaining its natural setting and community feel.

Fire & Rescue… 

Crime News…

🚨 Redmond Man Indicted on Child Exploitation Charges After Multi-Agency Investigation

A 23-year-old Redmond man has been indicted on multiple felony charges following an investigation by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit. The case began in December 2025 after multiple CyberTipline reports flagged social media accounts allegedly sharing illegal child exploitation material. Detectives identified the suspect as Gelsyn Yahir Hernandez, and search warrants were executed March 4 with assistance from Redmond Police, the FBI, and specialized digital forensics teams. Authorities say multiple devices were seized, and forensic analysis confirmed the presence of illegal material, along with additional evidence involving animal abuse.

Hernandez was arrested March 20 and later indicted by a Deschutes County grand jury on 20 felony counts related to encouraging child sex abuse, along with a misdemeanor charge involving animal abuse. Investigators say he was employed by the High Desert Education Service District during the investigation, which fully cooperated with authorities. Officials emphasized there is no indication that any local children or individuals connected to HDESD were victimized, and Hernandez did not work directly with children.

🚨 Overnight Car Prowls Hit La Pine Neighborhood, Dozens of Vehicles Targeted

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a string of overnight vehicle break-ins in La Pine’s Reserve in the Pines subdivision, where an unknown suspect entered numerous unlocked cars between Wednesday night and early Thursday morning. Deputies say there were around 30 attempted entries and at least five confirmed thefts, though no vehicle damage has been reported. Stolen items vary, and the investigation remains ongoing as more residents come forward.

Surveillance footage shows the suspect wearing a light-colored or patterned jacket, a hoodie with the hood up, blue jeans, and a bright green face covering. Authorities are asking residents to review home security footage and report any suspicious activity. Deputies also remind the community to lock vehicles and remove valuables, even when parked at home, as they work to identify the suspect.

Community News…

 Regional News… 

City of Bend Events Here

Road Construction

Overnight construction begins March 29 on U.S. 20 in Sisters

SISTERS – The Oregon Department of Transportation will begin overnight construction on March 29 on U.S. 20 in Sisters to upgrade curb ramps and pedestrian crossings so they meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. This date has been modified from the original plan of April 12.

These improvements will make it easier and safer for people walking or rolling to get around downtown and access nearby businesses and services.

Work will start with curb ramps at Cascade Street and continue west along the north side of U.S. 20. To minimize impacts to daytime traffic, most work will occur at night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., Sunday through Friday.

During construction, travelers can expect:

• Crews working throughout the project area

• Overnight construction and noise

• Sidewalk, shoulder and lane closures

• Flaggers directing traffic as needed

• Minimal traffic delays

If work is not completed by Memorial Day, crews will pause construction for the summer and return after Labor Day to finish the project.

Visit our website for more information or contact Meghan Blyth, community affairs coordinator.

Friday’s

Real Estate & Business News

Sponsored by

Central Oregon Market Report | March 25, 2026

by Reed Melton from “EnjoyBendLife Real Estate Group”

While mortgage rates have bumped up to a national average of 6.48% for a 30-year fixed-rate conventional loan, inventory and activity are also increasing, with marketing time decreasing. New listings benefit from evaluating the last several months of activity and are typically priced right and attractive. Buyers who are very familiar with the current inventory are poised to move quickly when the right property comes along, and we are seeing that reflected in the lower days-on-market.

Inventory in Deschutes County this morning increased by 33 to 996 listings. This week last year, there were 967 listings, as supply continues to outpace 2025 levels. Eighty-five pending sales this week are up 26 from last week, as spring activity begins to ramp up, with the median days on market at only 18. Twenty-eight of the pending sales reduced the asking price before securing a buyer, by an average of 4.96%, with an average list price of $773,827. 55 closed transactions averaged $703,393 and had a median of 13 days on the market. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 97.48%.

Crook County inventory increased by 12 to 193 active listings this week, compared to 159 on this week in 2025. Seven pending sales are down 5 from last week, with 2 of those sales reducing the asking price before securing a buyer, by an average of 3.83%. The average list price of the pending sales was $689,414. Twelve transactions closed this week, up by eight from last week, with the sold-to-original-list-price ratio at 95.7%, and the average closed sale price was $663,658.

Jefferson County inventory increased by nine this week to 121, the first time listings have been above 120 since December. On this week last year there were 104 active listings. Four pending sales are down 2 from last week, with the average at $521,224, and 2 properties reduced their list price before securing a buyer by 3.69%. Seven transactions closed this week, up three from last week, and averaging $394,399. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 95.14%.

While activity is increasing and the number of days listed for pending and closed transactions is decreasing, week-to-week volume has been uneven. Some of that is just seasonal variation, but much of that is attributed to mortgage rate volatility.

Rate buy-downs are coming up more frequently in conversations with lenders, as most agree that mortgage rates will decline somewhat in the near future. A popular product is the 2/1 rate buy-down, which uses a seller credit for prepaid interest. The buyer would then have a rate 2% below today's rate for the first year of the mortgage, 1% less for the second year, and then the current rate for years 3-30. This loan product provides short-term relief until rates decline. The drawbacks are paying the seller credit amount (typically $15,000 on a $500k purchase price), incurring additional closing costs when it is time to refinance, and resetting the loan term to 30 years. Ask your lender to calculate the ROI on this loan scenario.

Experience matters when buying and selling in today's market conditions. After nearly 14 years in real estate, with experience in construction and as a landlord, I am positioned to help you, no matter your goals this year. Please reach out if you have any questions!

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

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Active Listings

🛍️ Another Old Mill Shop Closing as Bend Retail Shifts

A longtime children’s boutique in Bend’s Old Mill District is preparing to close its doors, marking another change in the area’s evolving retail landscape. Wild Child, known for its curated selection of toys, clothing, and gifts, has been a go-to spot for families and visitors, but is now set to shut down after years in the popular shopping district.

The closure reflects broader shifts impacting local retail, as small shops continue to face rising costs and changing consumer habits. While the Old Mill remains a major destination with dozens of shops and restaurants drawing visitors year-round, turnover among smaller retailers highlights the ongoing challenges of operating in a competitive and increasingly expensive market.

 🌱 $500K in Tourism Dollars Funding Bend Sustainability Projects

Tourism dollars are being reinvested back into the Bend community, with Visit Bend awarding $500,000 in sustainability grants to 11 local projects. The funding—generated from lodging taxes paid by visitors—will support a wide range of efforts focused on environmental stewardship, recreation access, and community infrastructure, with nearly half of this year’s funding aimed at improving outdoor accessibility for people of all abilities.

Projects include everything from an adaptive cycling center and expanded all-terrain wheelchair access to upgrades at local venues like the Tower Theatre and Volcanic Theatre, along with initiatives to reduce waste and improve trail systems. Officials say the program continues to turn tourism revenue into long-term community benefits, with more than $3.8 million invested in Bend projects since the fund launched in 2021.

🛍️ Vintage Vibes: Elk Vintage Opening First Store in Old Mill District

A popular Central Oregon pop-up shop is making the leap to a permanent home, as Elk Vintage prepares to open its first brick-and-mortar location in Bend’s Old Mill District. The locally owned boutique will move into the historic “Little Red Shed,” with a grand opening set for May 1 during the First Friday Art Walk.

Owned by Jeni Gallacher and Andria Hattenhauer, Elk Vintage has built a following through markets and pop-ups across the region, offering curated vintage clothing, accessories, and home goods. The new shop will feature one-of-a-kind pieces—from retro tees and denim to timeless sweaters—all cleaned and ready to wear, with fresh inventory arriving weekly as the brand settles into its new permanent space.

 🥯 New Bagel Deli Coming to Bend with Fresh, Family-Inspired Menu

A new locally owned bagel shop is getting ready to open in Bend, bringing fresh, boiled-and-baked bagels and a family-inspired menu to the community. Mimi’s Bagel Deli, which has built a following through pop-ups and local events, says strong community support has helped turn the concept into a full brick-and-mortar business.

The deli plans to serve daily bagels alongside espresso, breakfast and lunch options, plus Italian pastries rooted in family recipes. While an official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, owners say they’re excited to welcome customers soon as Bend’s food scene continues to grow with locally driven concepts.

 🍔 Bend’s SuperDeluxe Drive-Thru Closes Its Doors

A familiar drive-thru stop in Bend has officially shut down, as SuperDeluxe announced it has closed its location after several years serving the community. A message posted on the restaurant’s menu board thanks customers for their support, confirming the closure but offering no additional details.

The reason behind the shutdown remains unclear, and representatives for the brand have not yet responded to requests for comment. The closure marks another shift in Bend’s fast-casual dining scene, where turnover continues as businesses navigate changing costs and market conditions.

 😎Just sayin

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