In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

👷‍♀️ High Desert Skilled Trades Fair Sparks Career Dreams for Local Students

 🚰 Sisters Irrigation Board VP Under Ethics Investigation Over Water Use

 🎄 Redmond’s Community Christmas Tree Arrives at Centennial Park

✈️ Oldest Flying B-25 Bomber Takes Off from Madras Airport

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🔥 Garage Fire in Deschutes River Woods Linked to Improper Ash Disposal

🚨Crime News

🔥 Bend Woman Arrested After NW Apartment Fire

🚨 Former La Pine Volleyball Coach Arrested on Sexual Abuse Charges

🥰Community News

🧡 Redmond Fire & Kiwanis Team Up for Holiday Food Drive

📰Regional News

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

 💖Local Cause Spotlight

🧒👧Kiwanis Club of Bend: A Lifeline for Central Oregon's Youth

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

FEATURED EVENT

🎄 3rd Annual Lunch with Santa & Holiday Bazaar – Terrebonne

Get ready for a festive afternoon at the 3rd Annual Lunch with Santa & Holiday Bazaar! Happening Saturday, December 6th from 11 AM to 4 PM, this family-friendly event invites kids to enjoy holiday fun including make-your-own pizza, hot cocoa and cookies, holiday arts and crafts, and of course a photo with Santa. Parents can browse a selection of unique gifts at the holiday bazaar while the kiddos enjoy the activities.

The event takes place at 8483 NW Lone Pine Rd., Terrebonne. Tickets are $10 per child, and the day is hosted by Lone Pine Legacy. For more information, email [email protected] or call 541-383-4246.

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Deschutes Public Library Events

Other Event Sources:

Visit Central Oregon Event Listings

Bend Magazine Event Listings

Local News…

👷‍♀️ High Desert Skilled Trades Fair Sparks Career Dreams for Local Students

Hundreds of students from across Central Oregon gathered at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds on Friday for the High Desert Education Service District’s annual Skilled Trades Fair—a hands-on event designed to inspire the next generation of electricians, welders, mechanics, construction workers, and even forensic entomologists. With dozens of employers on site, students had the chance to explore career paths that don't require a four-year degree but offer real-world opportunities and solid futures.

Now in its ninth year, the event is already showing results. “Some of our CTE students are now working for the vendors they once met at this fair,” said Brook Rich, CTE & STEM Regional Director for the High Desert ESD. From learning how to use a tape measure with Hayden Homes to hearing how companies like K&E Excavating offer careers beyond heavy equipment—like engineering and accounting—the fair showcased the vast scope of skilled trades. For many students, it was a first spark toward a lifelong career.

 🚰 Sisters Irrigation Board VP Under Ethics Investigation Over Water Use

SISTERS, Ore. – The Oregon Government Ethics Commission has opened a formal investigation into Karl Nulton, vice president of the Three Sisters Irrigation District board, amid allegations he misused his position to continue irrigating during district-wide restrictions. According to The Prineville Review, the complaint alleges that Nulton told staff not to shut off water to his property despite an 80% system-wide delivery cutback, which required junior users to stop watering.

Nulton denies any wrongdoing, stating he was out of town and had left automated sprinklers on after fertilizing. He told commissioners he does not sell his hay, instead donating it, and is willing to pay any penalties if deemed appropriate. The Commission emphasized that the investigation does not imply guilt but rather a need for more information. The case is expected to be resolved within six months and could shape future enforcement standards for public officials tied to resource management.

 🎄 Redmond’s Community Christmas Tree Arrives at Centennial Park

REDMOND, Ore. – The holiday spirit has officially arrived in Redmond as the community Christmas tree now stands tall in Centennial Park. Donated by the Haines family, who offered the tree back in July, the towering evergreen was safely transported and installed with the help of Vernam Crane and the City of Redmond Public Works team.

The festive season will kick off in full on November 29, when the tree is officially lit following the beloved Starlight Parade. The lighting ceremony is expected to draw crowds of locals and visitors alike, all gathering to celebrate the joy and tradition of the holidays in the heart of downtown Redmond.

✈️ Oldest Flying B-25 Bomber Takes Off from Madras Airport

MADRAS, Ore. – A rare piece of World War II history took to the skies Friday from the Madras Airport, as the oldest flying B-25 bomber in the world—nicknamed Destination Tokyo—made its journey toward Florida. The aircraft was fully restored by the team at the War Bird Shop in Madras and is now owned by a collector in Switzerland.

“This is the first B-25 we’ve ever fully restored—an enormous but rewarding effort,” said War Bird Shop mechanic Hunter Hoyt. While dismantling the plane, the team uncovered signatures from the original Rosie the Riveters, etched in pencil beneath the panels—tiny time capsules from the 1940s. The B-25, famed for its speed and bomb capacity during WWII, now soars again thanks to Central Oregon’s dedicated restoration experts.

Fire & Rescue…

 🔥 Garage Fire in Deschutes River Woods Linked to Improper Ash Disposal

Just before noon on Friday, Nov. 14, Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a garage fire on River Bend Drive in the Deschutes River Woods area. Crews arrived to find flames on the back side of the garage starting to spread toward the home. Thanks to quick action, firefighters were able to knock down the blaze before it reached the residence, limiting damage to some exterior charring. The garage, however, sustained moderate fire and smoke damage, and a lean-to used for firewood storage was completely destroyed. The homeowner and her dog safely evacuated.

An investigation revealed that ashes from a previous debris burn had been placed in a plastic bag and set near the lean-to. Bend Fire & Rescue reminds residents that ashes can stay hot for days and should only be disposed of in a metal container with a lid, placed on a non-combustible surface, soaked with water, and left to cool for at least 24–48 hours. For more tips, visit City of Bend Fire Safety Videos & Tours.

Crime News…

🔥 Bend Woman Arrested After NW Apartment Fire

Bend, OR - A 33-year-old Bend woman was arrested Saturday afternoon on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out in a northwest Bend triplex. Just after noon, police and fire crews responded to the 1200 block of NW Stannium Road, where they found the upper-floor unit of the building fully engulfed in flames. The woman, identified as Rachel Joy Kidwell, was on the porch and admitted to officers that she had started the fire.

Bend Police quickly evacuated nearby units while Bend Fire & Rescue worked to contain and extinguish the blaze, preventing it from spreading further. Other parts of the building sustained damage, but no injuries were reported. Kidwell was taken into custody at the scene and will be lodged at the Deschutes County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing.

 🚨 Former La Pine Volleyball Coach Arrested on Sexual Abuse Charges

BEND, Ore. – A 22-year-old La Pine woman connected to the La Pine Middle School volleyball program has been arrested on multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. Sierra Stigall, a former assistant volleyball coach at La Pine Middle School and past employee of the Bend-La Pine School District, was taken into custody following an investigation by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

The charges against Stigall include sexual assault, rape, and luring a minor. Authorities say the investigation began earlier this year after allegations were reported. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the charges involve a minor, but further details have not yet been released. The school district has acknowledged the incident and says it will provide additional information as it becomes available. This is a developing story. KTVZ

Community News…

🧡 Redmond Fire & Kiwanis Team Up for Holiday Food Drive

Redmond Fire & Rescue has joined forces with the Kiwanis Club of Redmond to support local families in need through a community food drive running now through December 31. Donations of non-perishable items—such as canned goods, rice, pasta, and boxed meals—can be dropped off at the downtown fire station at 341 NW Dogwood Ave.

“This partnership allows us to go beyond emergency response and help families who need a little extra support this season,” said Fire Chief Ryan Herrera. The collaboration builds on Kiwanis’ strong tradition of community service, aiming to ensure no one goes hungry this holiday season. Spread the word and help make a difference in Redmond!

Regional News…

City of Bend Events

Road Construction

Kiwanis Club of Bend: A Lifeline for Central Oregon's Youth

When you think about what makes a community truly vibrant, the answer often lies in how we care for our youngest members. Enter the Kiwanis Club of Bend, a dedicated group of volunteers with a mission as noble as it is vital: improving the world, one child and one community at a time. This local chapter, part of the global Kiwanis organization, is back and stronger than ever, ready to make a significant difference in the lives of the youth of Central Oregon.

A Rich History with a Bright Future

Founded in 1924, the original Kiwanis Club of Bend has witnessed nearly a century of change. After a challenging pause due to COVID-19 and declining membership that led to the club relinquishing its charter in 2020, hope flickered anew with its re-chartering on August 29, 2024. With the community rallying behind this initiative, the club is now experiencing remarkable growth, bringing fresh energy and renewed commitment to its mission of supporting local youth.

Located in Bend, OR, the club is easily accessible for anyone wanting to lend a hand or learn more about their initiatives.

Leadership You Can Trust

At the helm of this inspiring organization is President Barbara Jackson, whose leadership is matched by an enthusiastic team. Vice President Kristi Douglas, Secretary Cristi Moore, and Treasurer Jill Armstrong work alongside board members Yvonne Ward, Ginny Schider, Barbara Hart, and Linda Fisher-Berlanga. Together, they form a passionate team that drives the club's vision forward, embodying the commitment to uplift young lives in Central Oregon.

A Focus on Youth Empowerment

What truly sets the Kiwanis Club of Bend apart is its singular focus on youth. The club is dedicated to raising funds and resources to assist local organizations that serve children. By forging partnerships and lending credibility to various programs, the club plays an integral role in ensuring that every child in the community has access to safe and supportive environments to thrive.

Among their numerous collaborations, the Kiwanis Club of Bend proudly supports:

Ronald McDonald House in Bend

Every Child Central Oregon

The Giving Plate

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

Salvation Army Bend Corps

Additionally, they nurture the next generation by sponsoring two Key Clubs, youth-driven Kiwanis clubs at Caldera High School and Trinity Lutheran School. These clubs empower students with leadership skills, community involvement, and a sense of belonging.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans

As the Kiwanis Club of Bend continues to expand, its future plans are just as ambitious and heartfelt. The current focus is on assisting Central Oregon Baby Resources, an organization committed to providing essential items to families with young children in need. By supporting children aged 0-5 from diverse backgrounds—many of whom may be in foster care, experiencing homelessness, or facing tough circumstances—the Kiwanis Club is directly impacting the foundation of future generations.

Get Involved: Be a Part of the Change

As the Kiwanis Club of Bend works tirelessly to uplift their community, they invite others to join them in this rewarding journey. Whether you're interested in volunteering your time, making a monetary donation, or simply spreading the word about their initiatives, every little bit helps in their mission to support the youth of Central Oregon. The heart of this community beats stronger when we work together, and the Kiwanis Club offers a welcoming space for anyone willing to lend their talents and passions.

In a world where challenges seem ever-present, the Kiwanis Club of Bend stands as a shining example of resilience, service, and hope. They remind us that when we unite for a common cause—especially the welfare of our children—our efforts can create ripples of positive change that resonate throughout our community. Let’s embrace this opportunity to support our youth, foster their dreams, and ensure that every child has a chance to shine. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow, one child at a time.

 😎Just sayin

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