The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners approved $70,000 in County discretionary funds to support Central Oregon families facing food insecurity during the federal government shutdown. The County has committed one-time payments of $35,000 each to NeighborImpact and The Giving Plate. 

"During this federal shutdown, it's crucial for Deschutes County to step up and support organizations that ensure our families have enough to eat," said Commissioner Patti Adair.

“With dramatic reductions in federal funding to our community for nutritional assistance, health care, and housing because of recent legislation, executive orders, and the current shut down, local governments are doing what they can to take care of our community members," said Commissioner Phil Chang. “These County investments can’t replace the millions of dollars of SNAP support hungry Deschutes County residents are missing out on, but we’re doing what we can.”

The Board’s decision comes as federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, has stalled, leaving many in our community in need. The demand for local food resources is also rising due to hundreds of federal workers who are furloughed or working without pay during the ongoing shutdown.

NeighborImpact, located in Redmond, offers food assistance and other aid across the community. More information on the organization’s services can be found at neighborimpact.org.

The Giving Plate, located in Bend, provides essential resources to feed families in need. More information can be found at thegivingplate.org.

picture courtesy Central Oregon Daily

An 18-year-old Bend resident is hospitalized after being shot last night in the Safeway East parking lot on NE Highway 20.

Bend Police responded to reports of an assault just and shooting just after 6 p.m.

Officers say the suspect remains at large but believe this was an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the public.

Detectives are actively investigating, and a large police presence was on the scene late into the evening.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a major blaze north of Bend on 76th Street, where a manufactured home and camp trailer were reported fully engulfed. Fire crews, assisted by water tenders from Cloverdale and Alfalfa departments, battled the flames and prevented the fire from spreading to other structures. Both the house and trailer are considered total losses, with three vehicles also damaged. The estimated total loss is around $200,000. No injuries were reported and the adjacent trailer occupants evacuated safely after spotting the flames. Investigators are looking into improper disposal of woodstove ash as a possible cause.

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue volunteers responded to an emergency call Sunday after a 29-year-old snowboarder was injured while riding Mt. Bachelor’s Cinder Cone. The man, new to Central Oregon, struck a rock and reportedly suffered significant hip and rib pain. Due to the steep and challenging terrain, Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol enlisted SAR’s help. Fifteen volunteers climbed to stabilize the patient, then safely brought him to a snowcat access road. Mt. Bachelor staff used a snowcat for the final transport leg to West Village parking. Bend Fire & Rescue then transferred him to St. Charles Medical Center for further care.  The resort is still closed for the season and expects to open in late November. 

Deschutes County is outpacing much of Oregon in getting new homes built, but county leaders say key obstacles remain.

 

 

 Parents and drivers are being reminded to keep a close watch near school zones as students make their way to and from school.

 

 

 

 

The release of monthly job numbers has been delayed because of the federal government shutdown, prompting the Oregon Employment Department to focus on local federal job data. In Central Oregon, Crook County notably relies on federal employment, with federal jobs accounting for 4.2 percent of all positions—one of the highest rates statewide. That amounts to 347 federal workers as of June. Deschutes County, meanwhile, holds the highest number of federal jobs in total within the region, while Jefferson County posted a modest increase over the past year. These figures highlight the significant economic role federal employment plays locally.

Pile burning will take place in the Ochoco National Forest, with operations planned through late November, as long as weather allows.

Tomorrow (Wed) approximately 33-hundred acres in the Maury Mountains will get treatment.

Smoke may be visible from surrounding areas including Post, Paulina, Prineville, Redmond, and Bend.

Crews will also target areas south of Big Summit Prairie and recent fire zones at Crazy Creek, Rail Ridge, and Wiley Flat.

Some sections may close temporarily for safety, and residents can expect smoke in the region.

A 31-year-old Madras man faces multiple felony charges following a violent incident that began in Jefferson County on October 12th and ended in Bend last Thursday.

Police say Coby Powell forced a woman into his truck at gunpoint after an altercation involving her boyfriend.

While driving to Bend, Powell reportedly threatened her life and took her phone.

The victim escaped outside her boyfriend’s home and called police.

On October 16th, Powell was arrested during a traffic stop in Redmond. Authorities have recovered all firearms involved.

Powell is being held in Deschutes County Jail on charges including kidnapping and robbery.

Fire season across more than 2.3 million acres of Central Oregon District forestlands has officially ended as of Friday! The Oregon Department of Forestry reflects on a season marked by remarkable response rather than record numbers. Highlights include tackling the Rowena Fire near The Dalles, early support for federal partners during the fast-moving Cram Fire, and saving 827 homes threatened by the Flat Fire. District Forester Rob Pentzer emphasizes the relentless efforts of crews, often working weeks without rest. With fire season lifted, residents may resume burning yard debris, but are reminded to burn safely and follow all regulations.

A 62-year-old Bend resident is behind bars after a violent confrontation on Parrell Road Tuesday night. Police say Garry Mode allegedly attacked a 45-year-old acquaintance with several weapons during an argument, leaving the victim with serious injuries. Officers found the injured man in the driveway when they arrived, and he was transported to St. Charles Bend for medical care. Mode was arrested at the scene and is now facing charges of assault and unlawful use of a weapon. He remains at the Deschutes County Jail while authorities continue their investigation into the incident.

Snowfall over the Cascades has prompted officials to close the west side of McKenzie Pass, Oregon Route 242. Gates were shut Tuesday morning near the junction with OR 126 and up at Dee Wright Observatory. The east side remains open for now, with November 6 marked as the latest possible closing date, depending on conditions. The scenic pass, notable for its elevation and winding stretches, is not maintained in winter. Travelers are urged to respect closure signs; venturing beyond poses serious hazards. There are no services or cell coverage after closure. Seasonal restrictions on McKenzie Pass have been in place since 1962.

Mt. Bachelor reports five inches of snow at the base yesterday (Mo) morning exciting skiers and snowboarders about the season ahead. However, the mountain remains unpatrolled for now, with public facilities still closed.

Visitors are warned to avoid maintenance areas and closed lifts.

The official Opening Day is set for Friday, November 28.

Hoodoo and Timberline received several inches in the last 24 hours also.

In response to the Oregon Department of Justice finding the February 20th officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Allan Warner Jr., was not criminal… Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Tribal Council Chairman Dennis White III emphasized the community’s grief, stating that any loss of a tribal member affects the entire Nation. Here is his complete statement:

“We must first consider the family and friends of Allan Dale Warner Jr., who are still grieving his death. Regardless of the circumstances, our Nation mourns whenever we lose a tribal member. The passing of one of our own brings sorrow to our entire Nation.

Our community worked closely with the Oregon Department of Justice during the investigation of this tragedy to ensure that the circumstances were fully understood and that accurate information could be shared with our people. While the findings are painful, we recognize the importance of truth and transparency during such difficult times. 

As we move forward, we ask that agencies working with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs remember the weight of every life lost and the care required when sharing difficult news. Out of respect for our people and our traditions, it is vital that such information be communicated in a timely and respectful manner.”   

Dennis White III 
Tribal Chairman 
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs 
30th Tribal Council
 

Deschutes County has named Holly Harris as its new Health Services Director.  Harris, previously the interim director, steps into the role following Janice Garceau’s retirement in July. County Administrator Nick Lelack praised Harris for her impactful work and dedication to the community.

Since joining Deschutes County in 2013, Harris has played key roles in launching the County’s Stabilization Center and securing funding for youth mental health care.

In her new position, Harris will oversee a staff of more than 400, leading efforts to provide public and behavioral health services across the region.

Redmond’s Mayor is voicing strong concerns about the Oregon Department of Transportation’s performance and priorities. 

 

 

The Oregon Department of Justice says a Jefferson County Sheriff's deputy was justified in the fatal shooting of a man in Madras last February.  Police had a long interaction with the suspect, Allan Warner Jr. Officers responded to a call about a fight outside of a motel.  Warner was armed with a knife and refused commands.  Multiple tasers and a less-lethal-shotgun failed to stop him.  When he lunged at an officer, Deputy Anthony Maldonado fired five shots killing Warner.  The DOJ determined criminal charges against the deputy were not warranted.

An investigation is underway after a toddler drowned at an unlicensed daycare in southeast Crook County.

Authorities responded September 9th when the child fell into a livestock water trough.

The child was airlifted to a Portland hospital but did not survive.

State officials confirm the daycare was operating without a license.

 

Five finalists have been announced for the Growth Stage competition at the 2025 Bend Venture Conference in downtown Bend, October 16 and 17.

The selected startups span sectors from clean tech to AI-driven manufacturing.

These companies will vie for investments historically ranging from 100-thousand to 2.5-million dollars.

BVC is connecting investors and entrepreneurs during High Desert Innovation Week…beginning next Monday the 13^th.

 Fall and winter weather is tough on homes in the Pacific Northwest.  As KBND’s Heather Roberts reports, preparation now can reduce the risk of storm damage.

 

 

The latest assessments for Oregon schools show progress.  KBND's  Heather Roberts reports.

 

 

English for Bend La Pine Schools is 53 percent, and 41 percent proficient in Math for All Students and Grades.

Sisters 50.5 English, 40.5 Math.

Crook County 49 English, 35 percent Math.

Redmond 43 percent English, 32 percent Math.

Culver 43 percent English, 21 percent Math.

Jefferson County 27 percent English, 16.4 Math.

 

Authorities are asking for the public’s help after a deceased man, identified as 43-year-old James Herrera of Redmond, was found near Pelton Dam, northwest of Madras.

Following initial investigation, officials determined the homicide took place in Deschutes County and have assigned the Redmond Police Department as the lead agency.

Law enforcement urges anyone with information about this case to come forward. Tips can be reported to the Redmond Police Department at 541-693-6911 or the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.