Author: KTVZ

Kelsey Merison

OREGON (KTVZ) — Average gasoline prices in Oregon increased 0.7 cents per gallon in the last week, reaching an average of $5.27 per gallon today. This is according to a GasBuddy survey of 1,307 stations across Oregon. The national average price of gasoline has fallen one cent per gallon in the last week, currently averaging $4.47 per gallon today.

Prices in Oregon are 32.2 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand $1.37 per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average is up 45.2 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands $1.33 per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel decreased 0.5 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $5.618 per gallon.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, provided insight into the factors affecting fuel prices. “The national average price of gasoline spent much of last week drifting lower after jumping early in the week as oil prices softened on hopes that diplomatic progress between the U.S. and Iran could help ease supply concerns,” Haan said. “However, that optimism faded after President Trump’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping failed to produce a breakthrough on Iran, while renewed warnings toward Tehran have helped push oil prices higher again.”

Haan added that global oil inventories are trending toward historically tight levels, making markets extremely sensitive to geopolitical developments and potential supply disruptions.

Historical gasoline prices in Oregon and the national average on May 18 over the last five years include: $3.90 per gallon in Oregon (U.S. Average: $3.14 per gallon) in 2025.

The national average gasoline price data is compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering more than 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Gasoline and diesel prices are likely to remain volatile. With Memorial Day approaching, any sustained increase in oil prices could begin pushing retail fuel prices higher again in the weeks ahead, according to Haan.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — With just days until Oregon’s May 19 primary election, voter turnout remains modest statewide, prompting renewed reminders for residents across Central Oregon to return their ballots on time.

According to the Oregon Capital Chronicle, election officials had received about 357,000 ballots as of Tuesday, roughly 12% of the 3.1 million sent to registered voters. While that pace is not far off from previous election cycles, it remains relatively low heading into the final stretch.

For voters in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties, the message is clear: ballots must be dropped off at an official drop box by Tuesday night to be counted. Ballots sent by mail at this point risk arriving too late.

State leaders are also emphasizing confidence in Oregon’s vote-by-mail system. Officials say elections remain secure, even as they push back against federal pressure they argue could interfere with state and local control of elections.

Meanwhile, attention is also building around key races on the ballot. The Oregon Capital Chronicle reports that Democratic U.S. House candidate Janelle Bynum has outpaced other candidates in fundraising and spending in the final weeks leading up to the primary.

Election results are expected to begin coming in Tuesday evening, with counts continuing into the late-night hours across the state.

KTVZ will provide extensive coverage of the primary. KTVZ News will be closely tracking every development in these races. To get the latest, viewers can scan the QR code your see here:

That code links to a page dedicated to the races on the ballot. You can also find updates by clicking “Decision 2026.”

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Tracee Tuesday

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A newly deployed mobile speed enforcement camera in Redmond has been damaged just days after the city launched its photo enforcement program.

KTVZ News received video appearing to show the transportable unit, located on Southwest Quartz Avenue, tampered with. The video was posted online by an anonymous user.

Redmond police confirmed to KTVZ that the damaged device is the portable speed enforcement unit stationed along SW Quartz. However, officials have not yet released details about how the damage occurred or who may be responsible.

The incident comes shortly after Redmond rolled out phase one of its photo enforcement program, aimed at reducing dangerous driving behavior across the city.

Cameras went live Friday at several high-risk locations, including Northwest 6th Street, Maple Avenue and Northwest 10th Street. A mobile unit was also deployed on Southwest Quartz Avenue.

During the program’s first 30 days, drivers caught speeding or running red lights will receive warnings only. That grace period began May 15.

Starting June 15, violations will result in citations ranging from $165 to $440, with fines doubling in school zones.

Police say the goal of the program is to improve safety and reduce crashes on Redmond roads.

KTVZ will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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Claire Elmer

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A new prize honoring innovative solutions to challenges across the American West was awarded Sunday evening at the High Desert Museum in Bend.

Brad Parry, vice chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, was named the inaugural winner of the Schnitzer Prize of the West. The $50,000 award was established in partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.

Parry was recognized for his leadership of the Wuda Ogwa Cultural and Land Restoration Project at the site of the 1863 Bear River Massacre. Organizers say the project has become a national model for ecological healing, cultural preservation, and collaboration between Tribal members, local farmers, and government agencies.

“We’re weaving together our cultural history with modern climate practices,” Parry said.

“We started just because it’s our cultural belief. And to be recognized for kind of pushing that forward is extremely important to us. It tells our story. And to me, it’s the most humbling thing that literally has ever happened. And so it’s a great honor to be there,” Parry explained.

Jordan Schnitzer spoke of the award’s creation, saying its intention is to honor those working on long-standing Western issues through uncommon collaborations and thoughtful protection — both environmental and cultural.

“We should have a new prize that focuses on the unsung heroes that are working on fire issues, water rights, tribal issues, fishing issues, best ranching practices,” Schnitzer said.

“People with different opinions can come together, work together, compromise a bit here and there, and come up with solutions for the betterment of all of us,” Schnitzer added.

Sunday’s reception also recognized four finalists for the prize.

Organizers say the goal is to continue highlighting leaders whose work brings communities together and strengthens the future of the West.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Old Mill District was filled with classic cars, custom builds, and vintage motorcycles Sunday as the Old Mill Classic Cruz returned for its second year.

The event brought together car enthusiasts, local vendors, and families for a day organizers say is about more than just showcasing vehicles — it’s about building community connections.

Proceeds from this year’s show benefit Warrior Impact of Central Oregon, a nonprofit that helps local veterans build purpose, connection, and support after their service.

For many participants, the show offered a chance to share the personal stories behind their cars. Among them were the Putnams, original owners of a 1967 Mercury Cougar, who were attending their first car show.

“It’s been very fun. We got to talk to a lot of people. Kids come up and want to take pictures of the Cougar,” Frank Putnam said.

“One guy came up and said, ‘Well, you know this is not a Mustang!’” Pat Putnam added.

With support from vehicle registrations, sponsors, and volunteers, organizers hope to expand the Old Mill Classic Cruz into a lasting spring tradition — strengthening community ties and increasing support for local veterans in the years ahead.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — For Friday evening’s Pet Pals segment, the Humane Society of Central Oregon brought by Elsa, a two month old Domestic Shorthair/Mix.  She’s described as a very lovely girl, who enjoys getting pets. Elsa is in need of a forever home. Could she be your new family member?

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding comments from CEO, volunteer, and future homeowner)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — More than 100 volunteers spent the week building homes and building community during Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity’s 2026 Women Build Week at the Timber Cottages development in Redmond.

The week-long initiative focused on empowering women through affordable homeownership and hands-on construction experience, while helping complete the final homes in the 13-home neighborhood.

According to Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity, 11 of the 13 homes at Timber Cottages will go to women-led households, including eight single mothers.

The future homeowners include local workers helping keep Central Oregon running, including a TSA officer at Redmond Airport, a certified nursing assistant at St. Charles Health System, and a school custodian.

Future homeowner Michelle said the opportunity has changed the way she views her future.

“I just feel like dreaming is much more possible now that I have Habitat behind my name and Saint Charles behind my name,” Michelle said. “I just think we’re only going to go up from here and things are only going to get better. And I am just so grateful.”

Throughout the week, volunteers worked on siding, trim, fencing, cabinets, and finish work alongside Habitat staff and future homeowners.

For volunteer Susan Gutowsky, who traveled from Fort Collins to participate, the mission behind the construction was what inspired her to join.

“The thing that makes me happy is that when they do finally enter their home, they’ve worked for it,” Gutowsky said. “They often have a family that’s going to enjoy the security and the safety of a roof over their head, but that they know what they’re doing and it’s going to be lasting.”

Habitat leaders say the homes are designed to provide long-term stability through energy-efficient construction and predictable housing costs. The organization estimates utility bills for the net-zero homes could average around $15 per month.

Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity CEO Carly Cogan encouraged volunteers to continue advocating for affordable housing beyond the build site.

“You’ve made the decision to show up, to contribute, to be a part of something that’s bigger than any one of us,” Cogan said. “The question now is not whether you’re a builder. The question is what you choose to build next.”

The Timber Cottages project is expected to be completed later this year.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Happening next, a unique event is coming to Bend on Tuesday, May 19th: ‘The Butcher & The Brewer’. 

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at Hawkeye and Huckleberry Lounge, as two local powerhouses collaborate on a multi-course experience. 

Join Chef Carlos Anthony at Hawkeye and Huckleberry and UPP Liquids for a beer dinner, celebrating bold flavors, ranch-driven cooking, and expertly-paired, crafted beers. 

It’s one night only with limited tickets available. 

Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

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Spencer Sacks

Dr. Christine Pollard will serve as the interim chancellor and dean of OSU-Cascades, with her appointment beginning Saturday. This leadership change follows the removal of the previous chancellor and dean, Sherman Bloomer, who was removed pending an investigation.

Bloomer’s removal is connected to accusations of alleged sexual misconduct involving students, a story exclusively reported by The Problem Solvers. Neither Bloomer nor the university has responded to those specific allegations.

Dr. Pollard brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having previously served as the school’s senior associate dean. A spokesperson for the university told KTVZ News that Dr. Pollard is “well-respected at OSU-Cascades for her ability to work with faculty and community partners to advance academic and research programs and for her leadership.”

The search is now underway for a permanent replacement for the chancellor and dean position.

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Spencer Sacks

Four anglers recently reeled in significant catches, which were highlighted on the “Big Ol’ Fish” segment of a local television program. Elias Silas caught his first rainbow trout at North Twin Lake, while Abel Calderon landed a 33-inch salmon on the Columbia River. Tony Conte also caught a coho on the fly in Alaska and Carson brought in a rainbow trout at Crane Prairie.

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