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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 at Dry Canyon Club

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

  ⚖️ Central Oregon Ranching Couple Sues Utility Over Cram Fire

  🌳 Invasive Beetle Threatens Maples Along Bend River Trails

 🔥 PUC to Host Virtual Meeting on Proposed Cascade Natural Gas Rate Hike

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🚨Crime News

  🚔 Sisters Man Arrested in Multi-Agency Stolen Vehicle Spree

🚔 Bend Man Arrested by SWAT in Sunriver on Multiple Felony Warrants

 🚨 Two Arrested in Madras Traffic Stop After Fentanyl Investigation

 🚗 Impaired Driving Crash Damages Gas Station Sign and Fire Hydrant in Bend

🥰Community News

 🥫 La Pine Launches Community Food Project to Support South County Pantries

📰Regional News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🏘💼 Real Estate & Business News

🏘️📊Central Oregon Market Report by Reed Melton

  💼 Oregon Job Openings Hold Steady in 2025

🏘️ City of Bend Hosting Southeast Neighborhood Roundtable March 12

 🌱 Bend Moves Toward Natural Gas Installation Fee to Curb Emissions

 🍺 What’s Brewing: 2026 Legislative Session Recap (March 12)

🛍️ Powder House Announces Winter Clearance Sale in Bend

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

Correct Answer: C) Rimrock Draw Rockshelter

Expanded Answer:

Rimrock Draw Rockshelter, located north of Paisley in the Fort Rock Basin, has produced stone tools found alongside the remains of extinct Ice Age animals. Some of the artifacts have been dated to nearly 18,000 years ago — potentially making it one of the oldest human occupation sites in North America.

While researchers continue to study and debate the full implications, the site has added major weight to the idea that humans were living in the high desert of what is now Central Oregon far earlier than once believed — long before the well-known Clovis culture appeared around 13,000 years ago.

In other words… people may have been walking around our backyard during the last Ice Age.

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

FEATURED EVENT

Join us at the Dry Canyon Club in Redmond for Bingo4Heros!! Bingo cards are 6/$10 (please bring cash); half of the proceeds benefit Central Oregon Veterans Ranch, half come back to you in PRIZES!! Come support The Ranch, and enjoy Bingo, Brews and lotsa laughter!

🎉 Bingo Night at Dry Canyon Club

📍 Where: Dry Canyon Club
📅 When: Monday, March 2nd
⏰ Time: Starts at 6:00 PM

🎱 Grab your lucky charm and join the fun for a high-energy night of Bingo! Four games will be played throughout the evening with 💵 cash prizes and 🍻 drink specials to keep the good vibes rolling.

🎟️ Details: 6 cards for $10
❤️ Proceeds benefit Central Oregon Veterans Ranch

Bring your friends, your game face, and let’s see who calls BINGO first!

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Local News…

⚖️ Central Oregon Ranching Couple Sues Utility Over Cram Fire

A Jefferson County ranching couple has filed a lawsuit seeking more than $10 million against Central Electric Cooperative, alleging negligence that sparked last year’s massive Cram Fire. Ronald and Debra Dees — who operate The RiverD Ranch — filed the personal injury and property damage suit this week in Deschutes County Circuit Court, claiming a downed Central Electric power line ignited dry brush that spread into the destructive blaze. They say the utility failed to properly maintain equipment and shut off power amid severe fire risk conditions, leading to the fire’s rapid growth and the loss of homes and structures.

The Cram Fire, which burned tens of thousands of acres in 2025, was initially determined to be human-caused, though an official cause is still under investigation. In response to the lawsuit, a Central Electric representative said the cooperative is aware of the filing but cannot comment while the fire investigation continues. The legal action comes amid other wildfire-related utility lawsuits in the region, including major settlements and jury awards tied to previous fires linked to electrical infrastructure.

 🌳 Invasive Beetle Threatens Maples Along Bend River Trails

Officials are urging people who recreate along the Deschutes River Trail and in Drake Park to be on the lookout for a destructive invasive beetle that can kill hardwood trees, including maples, birch, willow, poplar and elm. According to information shared by the U.S. Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Asian longhorned beetle burrows deep into tree trunks, cutting off nutrients and weakening trees long before visible symptoms appear. (countryherald.com)

The shiny black beetle with white spots and long banded antennae leaves very distinctive, perfectly round exit holes and sawdust-like material at the base of infested trees. Because Bend’s riverfront and area parks feature dense stands of hardwoods that shade popular trails and picnic areas, early detection is key to helping protect the urban and riparian canopy. Officials recommend that visitors safely kill the beetle if spotted and immediately report sightings to state agriculture authorities to help prevent widespread tree loss.

 🔥 PUC to Host Virtual Meeting on Proposed Cascade Natural Gas Rate Hike

The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) will hold a virtual public meeting Tuesday, March 3, 2026, from 6–7 p.m. PST, giving customers a chance to weigh in on Cascade Natural Gas Corporation’s proposed 15.82% rate increase. The company is seeking to raise overall revenue by $16.4 million. If approved, a typical residential customer using 59 therms per month could see their bill rise about $11.07 — from $63.63 to $74.70. Cascade says the increase would help cover system safety and reliability upgrades, along with rising operations and maintenance costs. This marks the company’s first general rate case since 2020, with a final decision expected from commissioners in October. Any approved changes would take effect October 26, 2026.

Earlier that day, from 2–4 p.m., the PUC will host an informational virtual workshop where customers can learn more and ask questions (no public comment during this session). Workshop details: https://bit.ly/4s1tjTk. Community members can submit comments during the 6 p.m. public meeting (https://bit.ly/4kRYXQQ) or by June 15, 2026, using the Public Comment Form online, emailing [email protected], calling 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404, or mailing the Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – UG 525, PO Box 1088, Salem OR 97308-1088. To receive case updates, email [email protected] or call 503-378-6678 and reference Docket No. UG 525. Spanish translation services will be available via Zoom during the public meeting.

Fire & Rescue…

Crime News…

🚔 Sisters Man Arrested in Multi-Agency Stolen Vehicle Spree

A months-long investigation into stolen vehicles across Sisters, Redmond, and Bend has led to the arrest of 36-year-old Blake Mogan of Sisters, according to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. The case dates back to December 2025, when deputies arrested Mogan in Redmond while he was operating a stolen construction loader taken from a nearby job site. Investigators soon began connecting similar thefts involving heavy equipment and vehicles across the region.

The investigation escalated in February after deputies recovered a heavily damaged Sisters School District Suburban on Buckhorn Road. Evidence and onboard video footage allegedly tied Mogan to the unlawful entry and theft. Days later, a stolen City of Sisters F-450 crane truck was found on a forest road northwest of Sisters, where Mogan was taken into custody without incident. A stolen utility trailer was also recovered. Authorities say Mogan admitted to multiple thefts involving cases from the Sheriff’s Office, Bend Police, and Black Butte Police. He is now lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on numerous charges, including unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, burglary, theft, criminal mischief, and driving while suspended, along with a parole violation hold. Additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.

🚔 Bend Man Arrested by SWAT in Sunriver on Multiple Felony Warrants

A Bend man wanted on multiple felony warrants was taken into custody Wednesday morning in Sunriver. According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, 40-year-old Paul Alfred Akehurst was arrested around 8:38 a.m. by the Sheriff’s Office SWAT team without incident. Akehurst was wanted on several active Deschutes County warrants, including two felony warrants tied to criminal driving while suspended or revoked, aggravated identity theft, and identity theft.

Deputies say the arrest followed an ongoing investigation involving recent incidents where Akehurst allegedly fled from law enforcement and drove recklessly toward members of the public and responding deputies. Investigators also developed probable cause for additional charges, including attempting to elude police, reckless driving, reckless endangering, and driving while suspended or revoked. After surrendering peacefully when served with a court-authorized warrant, Akehurst was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. Additional charges may follow as the case is reviewed.

 🚨 Two Arrested in Madras Traffic Stop After Fentanyl Investigation

A short-term drug investigation led by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team has resulted in the arrests of a Redmond man and a Prineville man following a late-night traffic stop in Madras. Around 12:30 a.m. on February 21, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office stopped a gray Nissan Versa near U.S. Highway 26 and NW Cherry Lane for multiple traffic violations. A K9 alert prompted a search warrant, and investigators say they located a commercial quantity of fentanyl packaged in baggies inside the glove box and trunk, along with smaller user amounts, drug paraphernalia, a scale, and cash.

Arrested were 39-year-old Katen Von Blalack of Redmond on charges of Unlawful Delivery of Fentanyl, and 36-year-old Luke Berton Estes of Prineville on charges of Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl. The investigation began after a Prineville Police detective received information about drug distribution activity in Crook County. CODE officials credited coordinated efforts between Prineville Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Redmond Police in the case, which is part of the regional task force’s broader work targeting narcotics trafficking across Central Oregon.

 🚗 Impaired Driving Crash Damages Gas Station Sign and Fire Hydrant in Bend

Bend police responded to a crash just before 9 p.m. Wednesday at the intersection of Greenwood Avenue and Northeast Third Street after a driver under the influence struck a retaining wall in front of the ARCO gas station, then reversed into and knocked a nearby fire hydrant off its base, authorities say. Officers found the driver and witnesses still at the scene when they arrived, and the driver was taken into custody. (KTVZ)

The driver was arrested and charged with DUII, reckless driving, and criminal mischief. Bend police stressed that impaired driving poses a serious threat to public safety and encouraged residents to use ride-sharing services or taxis instead of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. (KTVZ)

Community News…

🥫 La Pine Launches Community Food Project to Support South County Pantries

A new grassroots effort is underway in La Pine to help stock rural food pantries across South Deschutes County. Modeled after the Bend Food Project, the Newberry Country Food Project — organized by volunteers through the Live Well La Pine Action Team — recently delivered its first round of donations to La Pine Community Kitchen. Neighbors and local businesses received 614 green bags to fill with shelf-stable items like canned goods, cereal, and rice during regular grocery trips. Every other month, those bags are collected and distributed to area pantries.

The need is real. La Pine Community Kitchen leaders say food and monetary donations have declined, while demand remains high — with 67% of clients being seniors on fixed incomes. Pantry shelves can empty quickly, especially during high-need periods. This month alone, 47 green bags were collected across South County, totaling 614 pounds of food. Organizers say the program provides not just groceries, but peace of mind for families choosing between essentials like medication and meals. Those interested in participating can contact Tracey Taylor at [email protected] or Katie Ahern at [email protected].

 Regional News… 

City of Bend Events Here

Road Construction

Friday’s

Real Estate & Business News

Sponsored by

Central Oregon Market Report | February 25, 2026

by Reed Melton from “EnjoyBendLife Real Estate Group”

 After the latest storm dumped some much-needed snow in the mountains, the forecast for the next ten days shows highs in the 50s and sunshine. In addition to the expected nice weather, the national average for a 30-year fixed-rate conventional mortgage is 5.99%, matching the lows of a few weeks ago, and the lowest in three years. Real Estate activity has already been picking up, and that trend will continue.

This morning in Deschutes County, the inventory is flat from last week at 828. Part of the reason we didn't see supply growth this week is due to a robust 72 pending transactions averaging $1,060,554, with just 31 price changes before securing a contract. As long as buyer demand keeps pace with new supply, expect prices to remain firm with fewer price reductions. Fifty-nine transactions closed this week, up 6 from the prior week, with the average sale at $779,495 and 27 price reductions before securing a contract. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 95.2%.

Crook County experienced its second consecutive week of inventory growth, up by eight to 161 single-family listings. Seven sales are pending, up by 3 from last week, averaging $438,000, with only 2 reducing the asking price before securing a contract. Three transactions closed this week, averaging $513,466, with just one reducing the price before securing a buyer. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 94.3%.

Jefferson County supply dipped by two this week, now at 110. Another robust week of pending sales is the culprit, with eight properties under contract, down one from last week. The average pending sale price was $455,956, and 6 of those listings reduced the asking price by an average of 7.52% before securing a contract. Five transactions closed this week, compared to none last week, at an average of $433,789, with three reducing the asking price before securing a buyer. The sold-to-original-list-price ratio was 95.63%.

In 2025, the supply of actively listed homes increased significantly from the past few years. While inventory this year is up marginally, lower interest rates and strong buyer demand have combined to mop up new listings quickly. While this dynamic produces more sales and keeps prices firm, for buyers, it can feel like there is less supply. At the extreme, multiple offers become more prevalent, and buyers need to move quickly on suitable properties. It will still take several more weeks for the season to reach full speed, but all indications point to a busy 2026. I strongly encourage buyers to begin working with a lender early so they are ready to make an offer when the right property comes along. For sellers, correct pricing is still important, but I expect fewer price reductions and more offers closer to the list price.

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

 💼 Oregon Job Openings Hold Steady in 2025

Oregon’s private-sector job market remained largely unchanged in 2025, with employers reporting about 58,500 job openings at any given time — nearly identical to the 57,800 vacancies recorded in 2024. According to new data from the Oregon Employment Department’s Job Vacancy Survey, hiring levels have stabilized after the record-setting surge seen during the post-pandemic recovery in 2021 and 2022. By 2024 and 2025, vacancy numbers had returned to more typical, pre-pandemic levels.

Health care and social assistance led the way in 2025, accounting for more than a quarter of all job openings statewide. Most positions were full-time and permanent, with higher education requirements often tied to prior experience expectations and stronger average wages. The findings come from the department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division, which tracks employment trends and publishes ongoing analysis to help Oregonians better understand the state’s evolving job market.

🏘️ City of Bend Hosting Southeast Neighborhood Roundtable March 12

The City of Bend is inviting residents to a neighborhood roundtable on March 12 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Larkspur Community Center (1600 SE Reed Market Road) to talk about growth, infrastructure projects, and what “complete neighborhoods” look like in southeast Bend. While the focus will be on the southeast area — including the Old Farm, Larkspur, and Southeast Bend districts — all community members are welcome to attend.

The evening will begin with a formal presentation from City staff, followed by time for residents to ask questions and connect directly with staff. The event will wrap up with a roundtable discussion featuring representatives from the three neighborhood districts and members of the Bend City Council. Bend’s 13 recognized Neighborhood Districts serve as a bridge between residents and local government, helping shape decisions that impact livability and long-term planning across the city. More information is available at bendoregon.gov/neighborhoods.

 🌱 Bend Moves Toward Natural Gas Installation Fee to Curb Emissions

In a move aimed at reducing fossil fuel emissions and encouraging home electrification, the Bend City Council voted Feb. 18 to advance a proposal that would add a scaled fee to the installation of natural gas equipment in new residential construction. Councilors will take a final vote in April on whether to implement the fee, which would initially be set at 20% of the maximum amount outlined in the city’s proposed calculation. If approved, Bend would become the second Oregon city to adopt a similar policy, following Ashland’s action in February 2025.

The discussion drew strong public interest. After a packed Feb. 11 work session that did not allow public comment, residents filled the Feb. 18 council meeting, with several speakers voicing support for climate-focused policies. A study from Energy Trust of Oregon shows that between 2021 and 2023, 86% of newly built homes in Bend included natural gas heating — with gas furnaces accounting for 63% of those installations. Councilor Megan Norris recused herself due to her employment with Hayden Homes, which opposes the fee, while Councilor Megan Perkins cast the lone dissenting vote, questioning whether the proposal is the right tool to reduce carbon emissions. Further details are available in the City of Bend’s City Council Business Meeting Agenda online.

 🍺 What’s Brewing: 2026 Legislative Session Recap (March 12)

The Bend Chamber is hosting What’s Brewing: 2026 Short Session Legislative Recap on March 12 from 5–7:30 p.m. at the Deschutes Brewery Mountain Room in Bend. This event brings together local business leaders and members of the legislative delegation to break down key outcomes and developments from Oregon’s 2026 short legislative session — covering topics like taxes, workforce policy, land use, and housing supply that directly affect Central Oregon businesses and the broader economy. (bendchamber.org)

Attendees can expect a casual networking environment with a light snack and their first beer included in the ticket price, plus the chance to connect with peers before and after the recap discussion. Registration is required and tickets are available online through the Bend Chamber’s event page. (bendchamber.org)

🛍️ Powder House Announces Winter Clearance Sale in Bend

Powder House, the popular outdoor and lifestyle store in Bend, is kicking off a winter clearance event with deep discounts on seasonal gear, apparel, and accessories. Shoppers can find marked-down items across categories — from ski and snowboard equipment to winter layers — as the store makes room for spring inventory. Whether you’re gearing up for next season or scoring deals on brands you love, this is the time to browse and save.

The sale highlights Powder House’s commitment to outfitting the community for adventure at all levels, with staff on hand to help customers find the right fit or gear for their pursuits. If you’ve been eyeing upgrade pieces or want to stock up for travels and outdoor fun, the winter clearance prices make it easier to check those items off your list — but don’t wait too long, as inventory won’t last.

 😎Just sayin

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