Category: ktvz-local-news

Matthew Draxton

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Renowned cellist Peter Wiley will lead a free public master class on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Bend, Ore. The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Heritage Hall in the First Presbyterian Church.

High Desert Chamber Music and the Cascade School of Music are presenting the master class, which is open to all interested individuals.

The master class aims to provide an inspiring educational opportunity for young musicians. Its presentation is made possible in part by Brooks Resources Corporation and sponsored by the Oregon branch of the American String Teachers Association.

Wiley enjoys a distinguished career as both a performer and educator, bringing a wealth of experience to the students and attendees.

The selected student participants, Peyton Cape, Ryley Jun, Hyun Lee, Julia Ma, Koyuki Blaumer and Tzippora Kreston-Duckles, range in age from 13 to 16. These students represent communities from Portland, Salem, Lake Oswego, Corvallis, Camas, Wash., and Bend. Their teachers include Jay Bednorz from Cascade School of Music, Hyun-Jin Kim, Steven Pologe, Anne Ridlington and Jason Duckles.

Wiley is an Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and a two-time Grammy Award nominee. He performed for 12 years with the Beaux Arts Trio and later with the Guarneri String Quartet until its disbandment. Wiley currently teaches at the Curtis Institute of Music and the Bard College Conservatory of Music.

Isabelle Senger, executive director for High Desert Chamber Music, noted the lasting impact of Wiley’s previous visit to Bend. “Peter’s last visit to Bend nearly a decade ago made a profound impact, particularly through his master class,” Senger said. “To see another generation of dedicated students, many traveling from across the region, eager to take part in this opportunity speaks to how meaningful these experiences can be.” High Desert Chamber Music aims to bring exceptional chamber music and musicians to Central Oregon through its acclaimed series of classical chamber music concerts.

Robert Lambeth, executive director for Cascade School of Music, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting music education. “We’re proud to support Oregon students at every stage of their musical journey and we invite all music students to join us for the Master Class—an inspiring opportunity to learn, grow and be part of an exceptional musical experience,” Lambeth said.

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Matthew Draxton

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bowman Museum will present “Interviews with Our Past,” a free program bringing local history to life through a live, news-style broadcast on May 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at its location at 246 N. Main St. Prineville, OR 97754.

Steve Lent will act as news anchor, leading attendees through Prineville and Central Oregon’s early history with historical reenactors.

This one-of-a-kind program blends storytelling, historical interpretation and interactive performance. It offers a fresh and entertaining way for the community to connect with the region’s past.

Attendees will experience multiple snapshots in time, gaining insight into the people and events that shaped the community.

As the evening’s news anchor, Lent will guide the audience by delivering updates from specific time periods and conducting live “interviews” with historical figures portrayed by reenactors.

The program is presented with support from the Crook County Historical Society and the Friends of the Crook County Library. The event is free and open to the public for all who wish to attend. For more information, the Bowman Museum can be contacted at (541)447-3715 or Bowmanmuseum@gmail.com.

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Matthew Draxton

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — “Chaos Theory,” Summit High School’s FIRST Robotics team from Bend recently reached the semi-finals at the FIRST World Championship in Houston. This achievement caps what may be the most accomplished season in Central Oregon robotics history.

The team also made history by winning the Industrial Design Award at all four competitions they entered this season. No team in the history of the game has ever won this award at every competition in a single season.

The Industrial Design Award recognizes the team whose machine best demonstrates industrial design principles, balancing form, function and aesthetics. An independent panel judges this award at each event.

At the World Championship, judges had no prior knowledge of the robot or the team, evaluating “Chaos Theory” against 600 programs from around the globe, including multi-year world champions. The team consistently received the same positive result.

The FIRST Championship, held in Houston, is the largest youth robotics event globally. It draws more than 50,000 attendees from 66 countries across three programs, ranging from kindergarten through 12th grade.

The FIRST Championship took place from April 29 through May 2 at the George R. Brown Convention Center. “Chaos Theory” competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition, which is the high school flagship program, within the Archimedes Division.

“Chaos Theory” finished its qualification matches ranked 10th out of 75 teams. During Alliance Selection, the team emerged as Alliance Captain #seven. Through the selection process, a top-eight captain chose to join another alliance, moving the captain position down to “Chaos Theory.”

The team then selected its partners, built its alliance and competed in the Division Playoffs. They were ultimately defeated by powerful alliances that included teams holding multiple World Championship titles.

This season marked “Chaos Theory’s” second consecutive trip to the World Championship. In the previous season, the team also reached the semi-finals.

Before arriving at the World Championship this season, “Chaos Theory” had already achieved a significant milestone. They became the first team from Central Oregon to enter the Pacific Northwest District Championship ranked number one, topping 126 teams across Oregon, Wash. and Alaska. They finished that event ranked second, defeating the reigning 2025 World Champion.

The “Chaos Theory” team consists of approximately 25 students and eight mentors from Summit High School. More than 30 sponsors provide support for the team.The team returns to Bend today. After a period of rest, they will begin preparations for the next season, which is scheduled to kick off in January 2027.

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Matthew Draxton

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Community Foundation awarded 258 grants totaling nearly $5.2 million to nonprofit organizations across all 36 Oregon counties. In Central Oregon, 18 nonprofits will receive grants ranging from $12,000 to $20,000.

The funding aims to strengthen community well-being, build arts infrastructure, expand economic opportunities and stabilize families throughout the state.

Most of the funding, $4.77 million, was distributed through the Community Grants program, benefiting 252 organizations.

This cycle, the Community Grants program prioritized organizations serving small, rural communities and those that are either culturally specific or culturally responsive, with nearly half of the grants allocated to economic vitality and livability initiatives.

The Community Grants Program provides flexible funding for nonprofits to address needs such as stabilizing staffing, strengthening essential programs and maintaining infrastructure. This support helps organizations meet rising demand and back community-led solutions in both rural and urban areas.

The Oregon Community Foundation, founded in 1973, works to improve the lives of all Oregonians through philanthropy. Each year, the organization distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers.

Beyond the Community Grants, other programs received funding, including Arts and Culture Grants totaling $250,000 to build the arts sector. This includes support for the Oregon Arts Education Collective, which connects educators and advocates to cultivate an arts ecosystem across the state. An additional $50,000 in Arts and Culture Grants supports the Van Evera Baily Fellowship, designed and administered by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon in partnership with the foundation, to advance professional development for design and building professionals.

Economic Vitality Grants contributed $37,500 to nonprofits helping communities build and sustain strong local economies. These grants support efforts to expand entrepreneurship, strengthen small businesses and increase access to opportunity. An additional $30,000 was allocated for Housing Stability in Oregon grants, supporting research into best practices for organizations assisting Oregonians in maintaining housing and achieving stability.

Furnish Hope Founding Executive Director Megan Martin a Central Oregon nonprofit, explained that her organization started furnishing homes over seven years ago. “We believe that everybody needs a place to call home and that there are people all throughout our community that are working really hard to get back on their feet after something unexpected and oftentimes traumatic has happened,” Martin said. Furnish Hope has furnished more than 3,000 homes in seven years, averaging 50 or more homes each month. “We say: ‘We see you. You’re not defined by your circumstances. Your life has meaning, purpose and value. You are worthy of every single one of these items,'” Martin added.

On the North Coast, the Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program received a grant to provide high-quality preschool, summer camp and after-school activities. Executive Director Kristina Anderson stated, “We try to keep tuition as low as possible so that we can ensure services to all families who walk through our doors.” The program has operated for more than 30 years.

Henderson House, located in the Northern Willamette Valley, is the only confidential domestic and sexual violence service provider in Yamhill County. Henderson House Executive Director Fay Schuler said, “The mission of Henderson House is to provide culturally aware outreach, education and services for victims of domestic and sexual violence through leadership, hope and respect for thriving families.” Schuler noted the organization was founded and is currently led by survivors and offers culturally relevant services to the Latinx population.

In Southern Oregon, Rogue Valley Mentoring connects youth ages 9-24 with trained, caring adult mentors. Rogue Valley Mentoring Executive Director Laura Pinney shared her organization’s mission: “Rogue Valley Mentoring is a nonprofit based in Southern Oregon with a mission to transform entire communities through the mentoring of youth.” Pinney added, “Our work makes a difference because it addresses a fundamental human need: connection.” The organization has been operating for more than 20 years and serves youth across Jackson County facing challenges such as poverty and social isolation.

Row River Fire Response Executive Director Kathleen Istudor in the Southern Willamette Valley, discussed the organization’s ongoing efforts. “We started this work in 2022 with a goal of fire protection in the valley and in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district,” Istudor said. “Along the way, we have come to see how connected we are, not just to each other, but to the land, the watershed and the people beyond our valley.”

Row River Fire Response is working to build a main fire station for its volunteers in 2026.

The full list of the 18 Central Oregon nonprofits are below:

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Matthew Draxton

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging residents to complete defensible space and home hardening projects during Wildfire Awareness Month. Simple efforts on homes can significantly reduce the risk of devastating wildfire damage.

A few simple weekend projects within the first five feet of a home can determine its survival against a wildfire.

Wildfire seasons in Oregon are experiencing increased length and intensity. Research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety indicates that reducing combustible materials in the zero to five foot zone around a home can substantially lower its risk of ignition from wind-blown embers.

Oregonians can prepare for wildfires by undertaking projects incrementally. These steps include simple actions like clearing gutters, protecting vents and removing items that can catch fire near the home. Residents are advised to cover vents with one/eight-inch metal wire mesh to prevent embers from entering their homes.

Mariana Ruiz-Temple, the State Fire Marshal, said the agency has launched a summer campaign. “With the help of Bigfoot as our guide, we want you to be wildfire prepared one foot at a time,” Ruiz-Temple said. “We’ve launched a summer campaign to show that these small steps can reduce your home’s chances of loss or damage from wildfire.”

Additional recommended actions include removing leaves, pine needles and other combustible material from roofs, gutters and decks to prevent embers from igniting the home. Homeowners should also remove or relocate combustible items such as furniture, cushions, trash cans and rugs at least five feet from the house. Choosing options like gravel or pavers instead of bark mulch within the first five feet of the house and keeping lawns lean, clean and green during fire season are also suggested.

Ruiz-Temple highlighted the impact of community involvement. “Oregon communities have shown time and again that when people take action, they make a difference,” Ruiz-Temple said. “This month is about building momentum. If every household takes even one step, our statewide protection becomes stronger.”

As residents clear their yards, they should be mindful of disposal methods, considering chipping, composting or recycling. If burning is necessary, all local rules and restrictions must be followed. Debris burns that escape control are the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. It collaborates with local fire agencies, communities and other partners to enhance fire prevention, preparedness and response across the state.

Oregonians ready to further their wildfire readiness can find simple checklists, sign up for free home assessments and get information about local events at preventwildfires.oregon.gov.

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Tracee Tuesday

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Central Oregon dog whose story captured the community’s attention now has a happy ending.

“Mama Eva,” a 6-year-old Cane Corso who survived a roughly 40-mile trek across Jefferson County late last year, has been adopted after months of recovery at BrightSide Animal Center in Redmond.

The dog was first spotted in late 2025 wandering near Lake Billy Chinook, appearing emaciated and believed to have recently given birth. Over several weeks, she was seen traveling through the Culver area and eventually near Smith Rock State Park, prompting concern from residents.

KTVZ’s Problem Solvers team began receiving messages about the dog, and the story quickly spread on social media, mobilizing the Central Oregon community.

Shortly afterward, a community member was able to safely capture the dog and bring her to BrightSide Animal Center, where her recovery began.

“She’s a dog who, once she finds that person she loves, you are going to be so loved,” said Hannah Loftis, shelter manager at BrightSide.

Staff named her “Mama Eva” and began months of care that included weight gain, surgery to repair a cherry eye, removal of a mass on her forehead and spaying. Along the way, shelter staff say she also regained her strength and learned to trust people again.

Loftis said the team grew especially attached to Mama Eva during her recovery and was proud of the progress she made.

After being available for adoption since January, Mama Eva has now found a permanent home.

Shelter staff say her new owner was prepared with treats and a welcoming space, ready to give the dog the comfort and stability she had long been waiting for.

For many in Central Oregon who followed her story, Mama Eva’s adoption marks the end of a difficult journey — and the beginning of a new chapter.

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Claire Elmer

WHITE CITY, Ore. (KTVZ) — An Oregon mom is turning a simple drive through rural communities into a way to connect neighbors with local food.

Tiffany Nelson created the OneStand app after noticing how many farm stands she passed with no clear way to know what they offered, or even where to find them again.

The app allows farmers, bakers, and makers to list items they have for sale — from fresh produce and eggs to sourdough bread and honey. Users can search by location or specific items to find options nearby.

“There’s just a lot of places locally that have stuff you never would know was there,” Nelson said. “Since this app was created, I’ve found places just down the road from me that I didn’t know existed.”

Nelson says the idea quickly became about more than convenience.

“Community is important. I think it’s important, especially these days, to know who your neighbors are and where to find things if you’re not able to. Resources should be as visible as possible,” Nelson said.

The OneStand app is available now in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Nelson hopes it will help more communities discover and support local food, one stand at a time.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding video and comments from cast member, theater director)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Caldera High School Theatre invites the community to experience Disney’s “Newsies,” a high-energy production with an impressive display of student talent, both on and off stage.

The musical, set in turn-of-the-century New York City, follows a determined group of young newsboys who stand up for what is right, inspired by the real-life newsboys strike. 

Anticipation is building for this spring’s production.

Lindsay Nickerson, director of Caldera High School Theatre, expressed enthusiasm for the show. 

“It’s a high-energy, uplifting show full of heart and our students have poured so much into the music, dancing and storytelling,” Nickerson said.

The production showcases the extensive talent within Caldera’s theatre program, involving more than 60 students across the cast, crew, and a live pit orchestra.

Caliahna Staskal, a cast member, set designer, and senior at Caldera High, highlighted the scale and energy of the show. 

“It’s a super high energy, fun musical. We have a live pit orchestra with us and just a ton of moving technical elements and a huge cast. It is just absolutely humongous, and I think it is going to be one of our absolute best musicals yet.” 

The large, student-built set includes construction led by two female Career and Technical Education students. Staskal contributed to the set creation. 

“I took my knowledge of 3D CAD programs, I used SketchUp and designed a 3D model of the set, just so that everyone could be on the same page,” Staskal explained. 

The comprehensive effort extends beyond the stage and even outside of school hours, encompassing various technical elements and costuming. The dedication involved will be what brings the show to life. 

“From costuming 50 different students to building a set that spans the entire stage, not to mention the lighting and the sound boards. It’s just an incredibly cool show…just make sure to support and recognize all the people who are working backstage to make this magic happen too,” Staskal said.

Performances are scheduled for May 7, 9, 15 and 16, 2026, at 7 p.m., with matinees on May 9 and 16 at 2 p.m., all taking place at the Caldera High School Auditorium. You can find tickets through their event website. 

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Saturday evening fire in a Bend mobile home park destroyed one home and damaged another, after improperly discarded smoking materials ignited a blaze that spread and triggered explosions.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded just before 6 p.m. to reports of a structure fire in the Suntree Village Mobile Home Park. Multiple 911 callers reported seeing flames and hearing explosions.

The first crews arrived at 6:04 p.m. and found the fire had already spread from one home to a neighboring residence. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the flames, containing both fires within about 35 minutes. Crews cleared the scene at 7:42 p.m.

Officials say one home is a total loss, while the second sustained minor damage. The homeowner declined assistance from the American Red Cross.

An investigation determined the fire started on the front porch of the destroyed home. Authorities say smoking materials were improperly discarded into a plastic trash can containing other waste, which then ignited. The fire spread to nearby propane tanks connected to a grill, causing the explosions reported by callers.

According to the Oregon State Fire Marshal, an average of 11 people in Oregon die each year in fires caused by smoking materials such as cigarettes, cigars and pipe tobacco.

Bend Fire & Rescue is reminding residents to properly dispose of smoking materials in non-combustible containers and keep them away from anything that can burn. Officials note that even when smoking outdoors, discarding materials in trash cans, vegetation or mulch can quickly lead to a fire.

More fire safety information is available on the City of Bend website.

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Campbell Porter

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A new weekly farmers market opened today at Elevation Bend, formerly known as Bend Factory Stores. The market, which wraps around the entire side of the outlets, will operate every week until October.

The farmers market is part of the rebranding of Bend Factory Stores to Elevation Bend. Organizers intend for the market to be an easily accessible gathering place for the community.

Events Director Ashtyn Ryan for Northwest Assets, noted the convenient parking available at the new location. “A lot of people feel discouraged going to the markets because they don’t find the parking. Here we have lots of parking. It’s just super laid back, super chill. It’s all just about coming together as a community and supporting your local vendors,” Ryan said.

The market features a wide variety of local vendors, selling items such as crafts, fresh produce and home goods. New vendors will rotate through the market each week.

Beyond shopping, the market also includes a kid zone with bounce houses. Adults can enjoy live music and spirits.

The weekly market is scheduled to continue through October, offering a consistent community event in Bend.

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