Author: KTVZ

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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KTVZ

(Update: Adding video of explosion from viewer)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Numerous residents in the Romaine Village area of southern Bend were awakened early Friday by the sound of explosions or a possible crash morning, bringing numerous police to the area as one caller reported seeing a person walking around with a gun.

Nothing was found, but police are asking residents to check their surveillance video and contact them with any sightings or information.

Later Friday morning, Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila told KTVZ News several people had provided them with videos that recorded the sound of an explosion, and the investigation was continuing.

Here’s what Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller told us earlier:

At approximately 4:09 a.m. on Friday morning, Bend Police responded to multiple callers reporting the sound of explosions or a possible vehicle crash in the Romaine Village area.

About 15 minutes later, another caller reported seeing a person with a gun walking around in the 61000 block of S. Queens Drive, as well as possible shots fired. The caller described the person possibly carrying a rifle as wearing pants or shorts cut off at the calf, a hoodie and a baseball cap, and smoking a cigarette.  

There was a large police presence in the area for several hours as officers searched the neighborhood. At this time, officers have been unable to locate any evidence of an explosion, a shooting or other disturbance.  

Officers are still in the area. If you live in the area and have video surveillance, please review your cameras to see whether it captured anything suspicious this morning and contact non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911 to share any useful footage.  

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Last Friday, a new country spot in downtown Bend celebrated its grand opening. 

The Coyote was packed full–with a line wrapped around the building–that was once Unofficial Logging Co.

Opening night

“People know this is a place you can come and kind of be someone else for the night,” said Jordan Houle, a co-owner of The Coyote. “Put on your country best.”

It’s a lot more than just a country bar.

“It’s a great space, it’s family-oriented,” said Jeff Berneski, another co-owner of The Coyote. “There’s a lot of different things that we put in here that people aren’t familiar with. We didn’t have an interior designer, we didn’t have any help on this. (Jordan’s) wife was a great help. She came up with a lot of the artwork and everything.”

“We did all of this from scratch. We wanted to bring in, like, a little bit of Scottsdale, Old Town vibes here… A lot of it is the ambience in here and the general aesthetic. I think people aren’t used to seeing it,” Jordan added. “The lights are crazy in here and we put up a disco-saddle.”

Jeff Berneski (co-owner) left, Jordan Houle (co-owner) middle, Justin Hodgert (co-head chef) right

Jordan and Jeff set out on a mission to bring something new to town.

“I mean, we’re the only place in town with a (mechanical) bull,” Jordan said.

It’s a space for all to enjoy. 

“We’re welcoming everyone in here,” Jeff said. “We want a safe space, we want a clean space…We just want to make it welcoming.”

Complete with merch and a full menu.

“It’s the only bar in town that offers late night food that’s not going to make you feel sick when you go out to dance,” said Justin Hodgert, co-head chef of The Coyote. “(My favorite thing on the menu is) probably the Southern Slide. It’s chicken and waffle sliders with jalapeño-maple and in-house chipotle hot sauce.”

Food options

“It’s clean food, high-quality, farm-to-table,” Justin said.

Minors are welcome until 8 p.m. and then the atmosphere shifts.

Opening night

“If you’re single, there’s definitely a sense of romance in the air. Like the anticipation that you could turn around any second and, like, bump into that person,” Jordan said. “You walk in here at night on a Friday or Saturday and there’s just that romance in the air for everyone.”

Opening night was a huge success. 

“I’m stoked about it. I think we did really good for the community,” Jeff said. “We brought everyone together. The vibes in here were really good. It was a good time.”

“There was a line around the building. There was people ordering pizza, having it delivered while they waited. Something that we didn’t expect,” Jordan added.

Opening night

And this is just the beginning.

The Coyote is located at 910 NW Harriman Street and is open Wednesday-Sunday. You can learn more about The Coyote on Instagram, @thecoyotebend

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Barney Lerten

Update: Adding video

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation Board of Directors announced on Thursday the appointment of Kevin Perkey as the organization’s new executive director.

“Perkey joins MBSEF following an extensive search process and brings a deep background in nonprofit leadership, strategic growth, and community engagement,” the organization said in a news release Thursday that continues below.

“As a Bend resident and parent whose children have participated in MBSEF programs, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative role MBSEF plays in developing young people through sport,” said Perkey. “I’m excited to build on that proud legacy by working with our coaches, staff, and families to continue elevating MBSEF as a premier organization that helps every athlete reach their full potential.”

Perkey has built a career leading nonprofit organizations through pivotal moments of growth and change, combining strategic vision with operational excellence. He and his family have lived in Bend since 2021, and his two sons have participated on MBSEF’s Freeride Development and Competition Teams as snowboarders.

“Kevin’s experience, leadership, and passion for youth development make him an ideal fit for MBSEF,” said Howard Friedman, President of the MBSEF Board of Directors. “We’re confident he will continue to advance the foundation’s mission of helping athletes achieve their individual athletic, academic, and personal goals.

Perkey is currently transitioning from his previous role and is expected to assume full-time responsibilities as Executive Director by early November.

The MBSEF community welcomes Kevin as he leads the organization into its next exciting chapter.

More About Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation:

The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) is a leading winter sports organization and nonprofit based in Bend, Oregon since 1986. Skyliners Ski Club, MBSEF’s root organization, originated in Central Oregon in 1927. The vision of MBSEF is to positively impact the life of every athlete it serves, and it is proud to be the recipient of the 2024 US Ski and Snowboard Development Club of the Year. For more information on MBSEF, its programs, and how to support MBSEF athletes, visit www.mbsef.org.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Every great solution begins with a curious mind. Put on your detective hat and dive into “Know Problem” this November with the Deschutes Public Library.

Investigate the deepest mysteries of the universe and let your curiosity meaningfully contribute to science. Join a collective meditation and sharing circle to honor nature. Flow through mindful movement with a guided yoga class. Kids can solve problems of physics and engineering with hands-on play and solve math problems using fun and games.

All programs are free and open to the public. Programs marked with an asterisk (*) require registration. 

Intro to Restorative Justice Principles 

Explore the principles and history of restorative justice with Stand-in Restorative Justice LLC. Build healing through restorative justice dialogues and learn how they can bring parties together to address and understand harm. 

Wednesday, November 5 • 2:30 p.m. • Sunriver Library | 56855 Venture Lane, Sunriver 

Wednesday, November 12 • 10:30 a.m. • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

 Bike Repair Basics in English y Español* 

Practice hands-on skills to keep your bike safe and ride-ready. Participants can practice fixing a flat, adjusting brakes and gears, and basic chain maintenance. Registration required. 

Wednesday, November 5 • 5:30 p.m. • Larkspur Community Center | 1600 SE Reed Market Road, Bend 

Wednesday, November 12 • 5:00 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Family Planetarium Exploration 

Join the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory for an interpreter-led tour of the solar system in their inflatable planetarium. Recommended for children ages 6 and up; children must be accompanied by a caregiver. There will be two viewings: 2:00–2:30 p.m. and 2:45–3:15 p.m. Space is available on a first-come-first-served basis. 

Friday, November 7 • 2:00–3:30 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 N Cedar Street, Sisters 

Chill Flow: Adult Yoga* 

Leave your problems behind through mindful movement. Join a relaxing yoga class as we breathe, stretch, and flow together, seeking to ease the mental chatter and soothe our bodies through movement. Registration required. 

Friday, November 7 • 4:00 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Saturday, November 15 • 11:00 a.m. • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

Hack Your Space: AI DIY Edition* 

DIY isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about imagining what could be. Glow up your space with “Mr. Fix It” to combine the power of AI with a simple toolbox to take on fun, creative projects at home. Intended for participants ages 12 and up. Registration required.  

Saturday, November 8 • 10:00 a.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Saturday, November 8 • 1:30 p.m. • Redmond Library | 827 SW Deschutes Avenue, Redmond 

Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause: Understanding Hormones 

Learn about what perimenopause and menopause are, the common symptoms that accompany them, and how to manage this natural phase of life. Andrea and Jillian are experienced Nurse Practitioners with a shared passion for providing comprehensive, evidence-based care in gynecology and reproductive health. 

Sunday, November 9 • 10:30 a.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Sunday, November 9 • 3:00 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters 

Sensory Photography* 

Practice solving the problem of aligning your heart, mind, and gaze with the photograph. In this workshop, experience the image and question the act of photography in a world where it seems everything has already been captured. Intended for ages 16 and up. Registration required. 

Sunday, November 9 • 1:00 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

Stories of the Land Meditation 

Join us in building community around stories of the land that we all share and call home. This program starts with a guided meditation practice and opens into a sharing circle to learn of others’ connections with the land around us. 

Wednesday, November 12 • 5:30 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend 

From Curiosity to Contribution: A Community Science Intro 

Bring your excitement and curiosity for an introduction on becoming a community scientist. Leave with ideas, tools, and the confidence to find a community science project that brings you enjoyment and connection while you make a positive contribution.  

Friday, November 14 • 2:00 p.m. • Sisters Library | 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters 

Saturday, November 15 • 1:00 p.m. • Sunriver Library | 56855 Venture Lane, Sunriver 

Pop-Up Exhibits with the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon 

Solve problems of physics and engineering with hands-on building and play. Check out the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon’s favorite exhibits during this open playtime. Intended for children ages 0–11; all children must be accompanied by a caregiver. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 10:30 a.m.–noon • La Pine Library | 16425 1st Street, La Pine 

Common Cooking Problems and How to Overcome Them* 

From soggy vegetables to dried-out meat, learn to fix common kitchen fails. Hear a brief instruction of how to overcome common cooking problems, like everything sticking to your pans, burning your food, and under-seasoned food. We then combine all these concepts and make a dish to enjoy together. Registration required. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 6:00 p.m. • Arome | 432 SW 6th Street, Redmond 

Exploring Central Oregon’s Ungroomed Ski Trails 

Join Eric Ness and Sue Sullivan from the Central Oregon Nordic Club (CONC) for a presentation on how to enjoy the freedom of cross-country skiing. Get a look at the essential equipment, key preparations, and the best places to find solitude on Central Oregon’s abundant ungroomed trails. 

Wednesday, November 19 • 6:30 p.m. • Downtown Bend Library | 601 NW Wall Street, Bend  

For more information about these programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz Goodrich at lizg@deschuteslibrary.org or 541-312-1032. 

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KTVZ

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Heart of Oregon Corps and Thistle & Nest just celebrated a major milestone in their partnership to expand affordable housing in Prineville: the wall-raising of a new two-unit dwelling that will provide safe, quality homes for local families.

The milestone was marked with a small community celebration on Wednesday, as partners, youth participants, and supporters came together to see the walls lifted into place and honor the impact of this collaborative effort, the two organizations said in a news release Thursday that continues below: 

The partnership leverages the unique strengths of each organization.

Heart of Oregon Corps, a local leader in youth workforce development, equips young people with hands-on construction experience, career skills, and mentorship.

Thistle & Nest brings deep expertise in affordable housing development, using a community land trust model that makes homeownership attainable and sustainable for the local workforce while ensuring long-term affordability for generations to come. 

“Raising these walls is about more than construction—it’s about raising community,” said Shelley Aube, YouthBuild Program Director at Heart of Oregon Corps. “Our youth gain real-world skills while contributing directly to addressing Central Oregon’s housing needs. This project exemplifies how community collaboration can create lasting impact—both in the buildings we construct and the people we empower.” 

Heart of Oregon youth participants are actively involved in the construction process, gaining valuable trade skills, industry-recognized certifications, and real-world experience. Thistle & Nest provides the technical guidance and development expertise that make these homes possible. Together, the organizations are building not only structures but stronger community connections, workforce pathways, and opportunities for local families to thrive. 

“Working alongside Heart of Oregon Corps allows us to create homes that are meaningful on multiple levels,” said Amy Warren, Executive Director at Thistle & Nest. “Families gain stable, affordable housing, youth gain career experience, and the community benefits from a skilled, empowered workforce.” 

The shared-wall townhome style unit, slated for completion in mid-2026, marks an important step toward addressing the region’s affordable housing challenges and showcases the transformative impact of strategic partnerships.  

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About Heart of Oregon Corps Heart of Oregon Corps empowers 225 local youth ages 16-24 annually through employment, job training, education, and service to Central Oregon communities. To learn more, visit www.heartoforegon.org.  

About Thistle & Nest Thistle & Nest is committed to providing services, support, purchase opportunities and stewardship for buyers of affordable owner-occupied housing. To learn more, visit www.thistleandnest.org.  

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KTVZ

Update: Adding video

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The city of Redmond said Thursday it’s seeking applications to fill current vacancies on several city committees and commissions.

Here’s the city’s full news release:

Applications for youth ex-officio positions are also being accepted. Youth ex-officio positions were created to encourage youth involvement in city business and to create an opportunity for them to voice their concerns and ideas on community issues. Applications are available online at www.redmondoregon.gov and will be accepted until positions are filled.

The following committees and commissions are seeking to fill open seats:

Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee Residency: Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) 1 position w/terms expiring 2028 (term starts right away) 1 youth ex-officio position w/term expiring 2026

Downtown Urban Renewal Advisory Committee Residency: None 1 position w/terms expiring 2029 (term starts January 1, 2026) 1 youth ex-officio position w/term expiring 2026

Housing and Community Development Committee Residency: Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) w/Specific Seat Requirements 1 position w/terms expiring 2026 (term starts right away) 1 position w/terms expiring 2028 (term starts right away) 1 youth ex-officio position w/term expiring 2026

Nuisance Appeals Board Residency: UGB 1 position w/terms expiring 2026 (term starts January 1, 2026) 1 position (Alternate Member) w/terms expiring 2026 (term starts right away) 1 position (Alternate Member) w/terms expiring 2027 (term starts January 1, 2026)

Tourism & Lodging Advisory Committee Residency: None 1 position w/terms expiring 2029 (term starts January 1, 2026)

To learn more about the City of Redmond’s commissions and committees please visit our website at www.redmondoregon.gov/government/commissions-committees. Applications are available online, via email or may be obtained by contacting Redmond City Hall at 541-923-7710.

If you have any questions regarding the application process or serving on a city committee or commission, please contact Kaya Duddy, Deputy City Recorder at 541-923-7755.

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