Author: KTVZ

KTVZ

(Correction: The courtesy images previously attributed to Larry Cole were incorrectly credited. The correct attribution is Aaron Knouse.)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Thousands of Central Oregonians took to the streets Saturday for “No Kings” rallies protesting the Trump administration. Demonstrations were held across the High Desert in Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties.

In Bend, demonstrators gathered at Drake Park for a “Community Action Fair.” The event featured speakers, music and sign-making before marching to Peace Corner.

Congresswoman Janelle Bynum, speaking at KTVZ studios in Bend, called the turnout “a powerful display of our First Amendment in action.” She added, “People are showing what they believe in and asking what kind of country they want to help shape. For me, that’s about building a better future for America’s children.”

In Redmond, more than 1,200 people filled downtown streets.

“We’re part of a nationwide day of demonstrations by millions of people all saying the same thing: we don’t do kings in America,” said Jen Laverdure with Indivisible Redmond.

About 200 people attended a rally in La Pine, which featured Senator Jeff Merkley, while roughly 1,000 gathered in Prineville. Attendance figures for Bend and Madras are still being finalized.

This follows the nationwide “No Kings” protests on June 14, held on President Donald Trump’s birthday to oppose actions taken by his administration.

Organizers said Saturday’s participation was roughly two million higher than at the first No Kings demonstrations held in June, making it one of the largest single-day protest movements in U.S. history. All events were registered as lawful and peaceful, with coordination among local authorities.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Cybercrimes like phishing, extortion and personal data breaches are spiking nationwide, with claimed losses totaling more than $16 billion in 2024, reports the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center — a 33% increase from the year before.

As part of national Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Central Oregon Community College is hosting a free 90-minute seminar, “Community Cybersecurity Training: Practical Tactics for Recognizing and Protecting Yourself Against Fraud,” on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Hitchcock Auditorium on the Bend campus. No registration required.

Here’s the rest of their announcement, in full:

Open to all ages, and with no technical background needed, the hands-on learning experience will be presented by COCC’s cybersecurity faculty and students.

Attendees will gain real-world skills to identify scams before they strike, from fake tech support calls to artificial intelligence-generated voice and video impersonations. Using actual examples from successful scams, the seminar will cover essential digital habits and the psychology behind scam tactics.

“Cybercrime isn’t just a big business problem, it impacts families, retirees and small business owners right here in Central Oregon,” said event organizer Eric Magidson, professor of computer and information systems at COCC. “This event is about empowering our community to stay safe online, and we’re proud that our students are helping lead the effort.”

Cybercriminals, Magidson added, are increasingly using AI to create convincing voices, emails and videos that mimic trusted individuals or institutions. According to the Federal Trade Commission, losses among older adults to impersonation scams have quadrupled since 2020, often costing victims thousands of dollars.

For more information, contact Eric Magidson, professor of computer and information systems, at 541-383-7262 or emagidson@cocc.edu.

In advance of college events, persons needing accommodation or transportation because of a physical or mobility disability should contact campus services at 541-383-7775. For accommodation because of other disability such as hearing impairment, contact student accessibility services at sas@cocc.edu or 541-383-7583.

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Barney Lerten

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) —  BrightSide Animal Center says it’s thrilled to partner with Subaru of Bend this October to celebrate Subaru Loves Pets Month, a nationwide campaign dedicated to helping shelter animals across the country. 

In support of this mission, BrightSide is hosting a special “Name Your Own Adoption Fee” Day on Wednesday, October 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at BrightSide Animal Center, located at 1355 NE Hemlock Ave., Redmond. This special event allows potential adopters to choose their own adoption fee, helping pets find loving homes while making space for more animals in need at the shelter.  As a nonprofit organization, BrightSide kindly recommends any amount of donation to support the ongoing care of animals and help save even more lives. 

To further the impact, Subaru of Bend is hosting a month-long pet supply donation drive at their dealership located at 2060 NE Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97701. Donations of pet food, toys, leashes, blankets, cleaning supplies, and other essentials can be dropped off daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

On National Make A Dog’s Day –  October 22, Subaru of Bend will welcome adoptable BrightSide pets onsite from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Visitors are invited to meet the animals and participate in our effort to “Fill a Subaru Ascent” with pet food and supplies for the shelter. 

This event gives people a chance to give what they can and maybe a little extra to help the next pet in line.” said Savanah Wellman, Assistant Director at BrightSide Animal Center. We’re really hoping this event helps some of our long-term animals finally go home, like three of the huskies who came to us back in May from a neglect case. While they have received love and care here, what they truly need is a family and a place to call home.” 

For more information on adoptable animals, how to donate, or upcoming events, please visit www.brightsideanimals.org or call (541) 923-0882 

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video)

Cuppa Yo, the beloved Bend-born frozen yogurt brand, is celebrating continued growth with the opening of its newest location on Bend’s north side, right next to the new Costco.

The doors opened on Friday, inviting Northsiders to swirl, top, and chill with Cuppa Yo’s signature flavors. Here’s the full news release on the new shop:

The newest Cuppa Yo location at 20789 NW Henry Ave, Suite 160, joins the established Westside and Eastside Bend stores in carrying forward the brand’s tradition of blending fun, flavor, and community. With an ever-changing lineup of frozen yogurt flavors and toppings, the Northside store offers something for everyone year-round, delighting loyal Cuppa Yomies and welcoming new fans alike.

Cuppa Yo owners, Keith and Crystal, expressed:

“We are endlessly grateful to the Bend and Central Oregon community for over 15 years of support. Even after all this time, we still smile every day when we see our Cuppa Yomies walk through the door. This family business exists because of you, our amazing customers.”

The grand opening will start at 12:00 PM PST on Friday, the 17th of October. Reflecting on the milestone, Keith and Crystal shared:

“We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the new businesses surrounding the Bend Costco area. It means a lot to us to be welcomed as a local, family-owned business into this growing hub. We’re also thankful for the many talented professionals who supported us throughout this two-plus year journey to make our dream of a Northside Bend location come to life.”

The new Northside Bend store is ready to serve the community with Cuppa Yo’s signature premium frozen yogurt experience. For more information and updates about Cuppa Yo Northside, visit cuppayo.com or follow us on Instagram @cuppayobend. 

About Cuppa Yo:

Founded in the spring of 2010 by two Central Oregon families, Cuppa Yo has grown into a beloved frozen yogurt franchise with more than 15 locations across eight states. Known for its fun, welcoming atmosphere, Cuppa Yo provides a clean, safe, and welcoming space where “Cuppa Yomies” can gather with family and friends to enjoy sweet treats and create lasting memories. 

With an ever-changing variety of flavors and toppings, each visit is a chance to craft a cup that’s uniquely yours. Dedicated to spreading joy one cup at a time, Cuppa Yo continues to swirl happiness into every community it serves. Learn more at cuppayo.com. 

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Silas Moreau

(Update: Powell makes first court appearance; judge sets bail at $150,000)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Madras man was arrested Thursday and was arraigned on several charges Friday after allegedly kidnapping and robbing a Prineville woman at gunpoint last weekend, Bend Police said.

According to police, officers responded around 4:29 a.m. last Sunday to a report of a kidnapping and robbery. The victim, a 31-year-old Prineville woman, told officers she had been kidnapped and robbed at gunpoint.

Investigators learned that after being released from the Crook County Jail, the woman drove to Madras to meet her friend, Coby Michael Powell, intending to stay with him. Police said that after an altercation between Powell and the victim’s boyfriend, Powell forced the woman into his truck and began driving toward Bend.

During the drive, Powell allegedly held a gun to the victim’s head, took her phone, and threatened to shoot her, police said.

When they arrived at the victim’s boyfriend’s home in Bend, the victim managed to escape from the truck and began screaming for help. Powell then left the area, authorities said. The woman sought help and called police from the 7-Eleven store on Northwest Galveston Avenue.

On Thursday, Bend Police detectives—assisted by Redmond Police and the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team—conducted a traffic stop on Powell after he left his workplace in Redmond. Detectives served search warrants on Powell, his vehicle, and his Madras home.

Police said Powell was arrested and booked into the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of first-degree robbery, first-degree kidnapping, menacing, coercion, and unlawful use of a weapon. Investigators said all firearms connected to the incident were located and seized.

Court and jail records reviewed by KTVZ News indicate Powell is listing an address on Elkhorn Drive in La Pine.

Asked about that, Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller told us police served a search warrant in Madras at the home Powell was staying at, but he also has lived in Redmond, Madras, La Pine and Bend over the years.

Powell was arraigned Friday afternoon and Deschutes County Circuit Judge Michelle McIver set bail at $150,000, at the request of Deputy District Attorney Lindsay Chenelia. Initial charges include six felonies – first- and second-degree kidnapping, first- and second-degree robbery and coercion, as well as two misdemeanor counts of menacing.

The prosecutor briefly recounted the allegations that involve “multiple Meausre 11 offenses,” with Powell accused of driving the woman to Bend at gunpoint and threatening to kill her and her boyfriend. Two firearms were found in the car, she said.

Judge McIver asked if either victim was in court (or online) and wished to be heard, but neither were.

The judge set arraignment for next Friday on an expected grand jury indictment. McIver also ordered that Powell have no contact with either victim, obey all laws, not possess any firearms or dangerous weapons or ammunition, appear at all future court dates, keep in touch with his attorney and not leave the state without written permission.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Discovery West and the Bend Park and Recreation District hosted a dedication event this week for new public art by celebrated Warm Springs artist Lillian Pitt, with creative collaboration from Ben Dye and Juno Lachman.

The piece is located in Discovery Park and features two sculptures that depict the Native American legend, The Legend of Coyote and Crow, according to a news release that continues below:

The installation consists of two sculptures: One is a 14-foot-tall steel tree, which rises at the heart of this work, alive with cast crows. Coyote perches across the way on a basalt stone, his eyes blooming bright yellow, and together the pieces retell a beloved Native American legend.

The art honors cultural storytelling and the enduring connection between nature, myth, and place. (Read the story of Coyote and Crow below and experience how this timeless tale comes to life through art).

“On the heels of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we could not be more pleased to honor Warm Springs artist Lillian Pitt, and her stunning sculptures. These pieces are both thought-provoking and playful, and together will make a great addition to the neighborhood’s art collection,” said Romy Mortensen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Discovery West.

“We are thankful for our long-standing partnerships with Bend Park and Recreation District and Visit Bend, whose sustainability fund helped bring this to fruition,” Mortensen added.

The Discovery West development team commissioned the art piece and worked with the park district to select the location. The piece was funded by a grant through the Visit Bend Sustainability Fund and is dedicated to the Bend Park and Recreation District, which will own and maintain it for the public’s enjoyment along the trail.

Tuesday’s event included remarks by Bend Park and Recreation District board members, Visit Bend, the neighborhood development team and representatives from the artist’s team. 

The installation joins the many creative discoveries found throughout the Discovery West neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy our Audio Discoveries art tour by scanning a QR code at the art kiosk adjacent to the piece to hear Lillian retell the legend in her own words. There are 10 stops on the audio tour throughout Discovery West, including The Legend of Coyote and Crow. 

Locating the Art Installation

Take the soft surface trail located near the intersection of NW Elwood Lane & NW Crosby Drive.

Take the soft surface trail located just south of the intersection of NW Celilo Road & NW Skyline Ranch Road, before the bridge over the park.

Accessibility route: Enter the path off NW Stanhope Drive and head east along the paved Outback Trail.

The Legend of Coyote and Crow

In this Native American legend, the clever tricksters Coyote and Crow meet in a playful — and fateful — contest.

Crow and his friends are racing their eyes: popping them out, sending them soaring across a meadow, and catching them on the return. Coyote, always eager to impress, tries to join in but fails again and again.

Crow, feigning kindness, offers to help. He plucks out Coyote’s eyes and launches them into the air — only to fly off laughing, taking them with him. Now blind and alone, Coyote stumbles through the landscape until he discovers a patch of bright yellow flowers. Desperate, he presses one into each empty eye socket and turns toward the sun. Slowly, the shapes and colors of the world return. Coyote can see again — and his eyes are now the color of those golden blooms.

High in a tree nearby, Crow and his companions watch and laugh. And that is how Coyote came to have yellow eyes.

About Discovery West

Discovery West, situated on 245 acres on Bend’s westside, is the newest community in development by the team behind award-winning NorthWest Crossing. Discovery West offers a variety of home types and sizes, Discovery Corner, its community plaza, select retail shops and businesses, Aerie by AvantStay luxury overnight vacation rentals, public art installations, and 40 acres of parks, trails and open land. The development team’s vision for creating livable, detail-oriented communities that respect the Central Oregon landscape and lifestyle is apparent throughout the neighborhood. www.discoverywestbend.com

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Federal funding cuts left some Oregon organizations scrambling to keep programs and services running. When a funding freeze affected Shepherd’s House Ministries‘ food budget earlier this year, the community stepped in to help fill the gap.

Since April, the generosity of Central Oregon has enabled Shepherd’s House to provide more than 155,000 meals at its six sites in Bend and Redmond, the organization said in a news release that continues below: 

The organization launched a community initiative called “A Place at the Table” to raise funds to continue serving meals to neighbors in need without an interruption or reduction in services.

Caring and compassionate citizens responded, allowing Shepherd’s House to serve daily meals to residents at the Redmond Center, Lighthouse Navigation Center, Franklin Shelter, Cleveland Commons, Abi’s House, and the Men’s Center.

In addition, it filled plates for walk-ins at the Redmond Center, Lighthouse Navigation Center, and the Men’s Center. 

“When we were hit with a 17% federal funding cut earlier this year that reduced our food budget, we faced the risk of serving fewer meals to our neighbors in need,” said Curt Floski, executive director of Shepherd’s House Ministries.

“Instead, your generosity through the A Place at the Table Campaign turned potential loss into abundance,” Floski added. “Together, we stepped into the gap and provided thousands of meals, restored dignity, and ensured no one was left without a seat at the table.”

Shepherd’s House also provides basic necessities, including food, through its mobile outreach program called SHARE. More than 300 volunteers contribute time and talent in preparing and serving the meals, transporting food, sorting donations, and cleaning up after the meals.

“A Place at the Table” continues through the end of the year as the organization preps for colder weather and holiday meals.

For more information, contact Jerry Kaping, Director of Development at 541-388-2096.

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KTVZ

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The City of Redmond said Friday it has opened the third leg of the new roundabout at NE 9th Street and OR 126, allowing for traffic flow on NE 9th Street to the north. This follows the opening of the first two legs last month for traffic on OR 126 between Redmond and Prineville.  

The final leg, connecting to the newly constructed road south of the roundabout, will open in 2026 upon completion of the adjacent roundabout near the airport, the city said.

The phased rollout is part of the broader Eastside Arterial Project, aimed at improving connectivity and relieving congestion on Redmond’s eastside. 

For more information about the Eastside Arterial Project, please visit the website at www.redmondoregon.gov/eastsidearterial or contact Principal Engineer Jake Sherman at (541) 504-2019 or by email: jake.sherman@redmondoregon.gov.  

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KTVZ

The Bend FFA chapter has been recognized in 2025 National Chapter Award Program from the National FFA Organization. They were given a 2-star ranking – truly a mark of their exceptionalism. Fewer than 10% of chapters nationwide are given a ranking from the National FFA Organization.  

The National Chapter Award Program recognizes outstanding FFA chapters from across the country that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality FFA Chapter Standards and a Program of Activities that emphasizes growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.  

Chapters received star ratings during judging this summer and will be recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, Oct 29-Nov 1. All star-rated FFA chapters receive honors made possible by corporate sponsors Bayer, Cargill Protein, Case IH, John Deere, Syngenta, and Rabobank.  

Bend FFA member Jael Cruikshank is the Oregon FFA National Officer Candidate to compete for one of six National FFA officer positions.

Thirty-seven out of 1 million FFA members nationwide have been chosen to compete for national office at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo this October, marking a significant milestone in their leadership journeys and showcasing their commitment to FFA and agriculture. These six officers will lead the National FFA Organization during their year of service and be the ambassadors for the organization.  

The process to become a national officer is arduous, with the candidates taking part in a multi-day, extensive interview process with the National FFA Officer Nominating Committee. The committee is comprised of students and adult advisors who interview and select the six national officers. 

It takes a highly motivated person to become a successful National FFA Officer—an opportunity afforded to few members. Becoming a national officer requires members to learn about their passions and gain a better understanding of what life as a national officer is like. The life of a national officer is nonstop hard work and never-ending commitments, but it is a life-changing experience—one they will cherish forever. 

The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of FFA members in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. This year over 5,200 American Degrees were awarded. Kate Schimmoller & Danika Kuck, members of the Bend FFA chapter will be awarded the American FFA Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo on November 1, 2025. 

Sponsored by Bayer, Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, Rabobank, and Syngenta, the award recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing, or service programs. 

To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hours outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research.

Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. Only .5% percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree. 

After being recognized at the national convention, each recipient of the American FFA Degree receives a gold American FFA Degree key and certificate. 

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

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About National FFA Organization The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook and Twitter.  

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Shannon Brady

(Update: Adding video)

With fall in full swing and Halloween right around the corner, you might be looking for something fun to do this season. There are a number of places across Central Oregon where you can pick out a pumpkin and celebrate the season.

Smith Rock Ranch in Terrebonne is the regions largest “u-pick” pumpkin patch and has been a fan-favorite for many Central Oregonians for over 20 years. They grow all their own pumpkins on-site and have many pre-picked options. Admission and parking is free and you are given a barrel when you arrive.

Owner of the Ranch, Matt Lisignoli, says you can expect to find the ranch busy and bustling.

He says, “Activities will include the corn maze, the pumpkin cannons, pony rides, mini golf, animal house, a Snoopy train ride, and the zoo train ride as well.”

The theme of the corn maze this year is “Maize-o-poly” named after the classic board game Monopoly.

He continues, “We really appreciate having the public out. We just ask everybody respect our property and follow all the signs and just be patient.”

If you’re looking for something more laid back this season, Schilling’s Garden Market in Bend might be the place for you. You can shop, sip, and pick out your very own pumpkin. They have animals, a play area and hay maze for kids, and they also host events throughout the season.

Breanna Sommerville from Schilling’s tells KTVZ, “Our pumpkin patch is so special because we’re a place where people come to actually, like, slow down. And I think just enjoy the view and take in this time of year. This weekend, this Friday and Saturday, we will have wine tasting on our patio from a few different Oregon wineries. We also have a mini farmer’s market on Saturday along with our farm dog’s birthday celebration…and street dog here is going to be here with adoptable pups.”

They are open for the season until November 2nd, but have holiday events in November and December.

Make sure you check out their websites for their hours and any upcoming events.

Smith Rock Ranch: https://www.smithrockranch.com/ Schilling’s Garden Market: https://www.schillingsgardenmarket.com/

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