Category: ktvz-local-news

KTVZ

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. (KTVZ) — State Representative E. Werner Reschke, R-Klamath Falls, announced Tuesday two resolutions he will introduce during the legislative short session in 2026.

The first will be a resolution declaring October 14th as Charlie Kirk Day. The second resolution is a voter referendum to preserve parental rights in Oregon’s Constitution, Reschke said in a news release issued Tuesday, which you can read in full below:

“Creating strong families is a central them to both these resolutions. Without strong families, we cannot have strong communities, a strong state or strong nation. These resolutions acknowledge, strengthen and encourage the need for strong families.” 

“Charlie Kirk was a once-in-a-lifetime person of character, change and charisma. His focus on families, young adults, and his fearless approach to cultural and political issues was second to none. He exemplified how our political discourse should take place — peacefully and respectfully. He modeled how to live life to its fullest, positively impacting hundreds of millions of people around the world. We should honor such a man. Therefore during the short session I will introduce a resolution declaring October 14th, Charlie Kirk Day. This date was Charlie’s birthday.”

“I will also be reintroducing a resolution that ensures parents have a fundamental right to the upbringing, education and care for their children. In light of AB 495’s serious consideration in California’s legislature, Oregon parents need the protection of such a constitutional provision,” said Rep. Reschke.

The legislative “short session” will begin on February 2, 2026 and concludes no later than March 9, 2026. During the short session, each legislator is allowed to introduce two bills.

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Barney Lerten

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The City of Redmond will implement a single-lane, signalized closure on NW Northwest Way from Euston Lane to the new Redmond Wetlands Complex access at 5801 Northwest Way beginning next Monday, September 22, through mid-December.

The closure is necessary to install a 48-inch interceptor line linking the Wetlands Complex to the existing wastewater treatment plant in Dry Canyon, the city said in this week’s news release, which continues below:

Drivers should expect delays in the area and are encouraged to plan alternate routes when possible. Traffic control measures will be in place to ensure safety for both motorists and construction crews. Local access will be maintained for residents and businesses within the construction area.

The Redmond Wetlands Complex is a multi-year investment to expand wastewater treatment capacity while creating engineered wetlands that improve water quality, provide wildlife habitat, and offer community recreation opportunities. Construction began in summer 2025 and is expected to continue through fall 2027.

For more project information or to sign up for updates, visit www.redmondwetlandscomplex.com. If you have questions, please contact Project Engineer Julie Thiessen directly at 541-504-2016, or by email julie.thiessen@redmondoregon.gov.

Northwest Way Redmond mapDownload

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KTVZ – News Team

KTVZ News is proud to air several of the top matchups in the NFL and College Football. Below is the latest schedule for this week, which includes Sunday Night Football on NBC.

Friday, September 19th:

KFXO/FOX:  

5:00 – 8:30p: Iowa @ Rutgers

Saturday, September 20th

KFXO/FOX- 

7:00-9:00a: Big Noon Kickoff (pregame talk show)

9:00a – 12:30p: Texas Tech @ Utah

12:30 – 4:00p: North Carolina @ UCF

4:00 – 4:30p: Fox College Football Extra (Football talk show)

4:30 – 8:00p: Arizona St. @ Baylor

8:00 -11:30p: Michigan St @ USC

KTVZ/NBC –

9:00a -12:30p: Maryland @ Wisconsin

12:30 – 4:00p: Purdue @ Notre Dame

4:00 – 4:30p: Big Ten Countdown (Pregame show)

4:30 – 7:59:30p: Illinois @ Indiana

Sunday, September 21st

KFXO/FOX – 

8:00 – 9:00a: Fox NFL Kickoff (pregame talk show)

9:00 – 10:00a: Fox NFL Sunday (pregame talk show)

10:00a-1:00p: Los Angeles Rams @ Philadelphia Eagles

1:00-4:30p: Arizona Cardinals @ San Fransico 49ers

4:30 – 5:00p: The OT (Postgame show)

KTVZ/NBC:

4:00-5:15p: Football night in America (pregame show)

5:15-8:30p: Kansas City Chief @ New York Giants

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Deschutes Children’s Foundation and Heart of Oregon Corps are once again teaming up to protect Central Oregon families by reducing fire risk at DCF’s East Bend Campus.

Funded through a grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal, this project supports the safety of the 10+ nonprofit partners and hundreds of children and families who access essential services at the campus each year, according to the organizations, whose news release continues below. 

The fuels reduction work includes thinning vegetation, clearing brush, and creating defensible space around the campus buildings.These efforts not only reduce wildfire risk but also create a safer and more welcoming environment for families who come to the campus to receive services such as health care, foster care advocacy, and early childhood education. 

“Partnerships like this allow us to create safer, healthier environments for children and families across Central Oregon,” said Cassi MacQueen, executive director of the Deschutes Children’s Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to Heart of Oregon Corps and the Oregon State Fire Marshal for their commitment to protecting our campuses and the families we serve.” 

“At Heart of Oregon Corps, we’re proud to put local young people to work on projects that directly benefit our community,” said Laura Handy, Executive Director of Heart of Oregon Corps. “This partnership not only protects children and families who rely on these vital services, but also gives our youth meaningful, hands-on job training.”  

The East Bend Campus is one of four operated by Deschutes Children’s Foundation across Central Oregon. Together, these campuses provide the space and support where 23 nonprofit partners serve more than 19,000 children and families each year, saving partners more than $1.4 million annually in overhead costs. 

About Deschutes Children’s Foundation 

Founded in 1990, Deschutes Children’s Foundation manages and maintains four nonprofit service centers in Bend, Redmond, and La Pine. By providing collaborative spaces and operational support, DCF empowers its 23 nonprofit partners to focus on their core missions, collectively serving over 19,000 vulnerable children and families each year. 

For more information, visit deschuteschildrensfoundation.org. 

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Claire Elmer

(Update: Adding video, adding interviews with pilot, program coordinator, and student pilots)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — For many kids, looking up at the sky sparks a dream. The Young Eagles program turns that dream into reality — giving young people their own flight experience, free of charge.

It’s all part of the mission of the Experimental Aircraft Association: to spark a passion for aviation and open doors for the next generation of pilots.

More than 2 million kids across the country have flown with Young Eagles since the program launched in the 1990s. Here in Central Oregon, volunteers dedicate their own time and money to make it possible.

KTVZ spoke with Jeff Stolasz, a pilot for the program, when he returned from a recent flight with a Young Eagle.

“We just did a Young Eagle flight with McKenzie here. And she was super brave… she was actually flying the airplane after we took off,” Stolasz said.

Stolasz’s ‘co-pilot’, Young Eagle McKenzie Goodrich, was excited to share her experience and the connection she has to the program. 

“I just like flying and being in the air. My sister is getting her private pilot’s license this month, and she’s hoping to join the military,” Goodrich said. 

Thomas Wright, Young Eagles coordinator, spoke with KTVZ News about the program. The volunteer efforts are what make it all possible. 

“Everyone here is doing this on their own time,” Wright said. “The pilots, they’re doing it with their own money. And it’s wonderful to see them come out and help this program.”

And the impact goes far beyond a single flight. Students can earn scholarships through the program to help pay for their private pilot’s license — helping to turn childhood dreams into career paths.

“It’s just so gratifying to see kids from all walks of life,” Wright added. “We open the door of opportunity to them… and they’re on their way. They’re going to be pilots.”  

That opportunity is fueling ambition for students across Central Oregon. Three Young Eagles scholars — students who have received scholarships from the program to earn their pilots’ licenses — shared what has fueled their passion for aviation. All point to family members as inspiration. 

Tobann Bionda, a student pilot with Young Eagles, shared how he’s following in his brother’s footsteps.

“My brother and I used to watch Trent Palmer videos, and we just thought it was super awesome. We both wanted to become pilots. He got his pilot’s license two years ago, and I’m just following him,” Bionda said.

Delilah Richards, Young Eagles student pilot, got her love of traveling from the opportunities that came along with her mom’s job. 

“I got involved with flying because my mom works at the airport. I thought, why not have a career where I can just travel all the time? So that kind of just got me involved with flying. And I’ve just always loved it,” Richards said. 

The sister McKenzie Goodrich spoke about after her flight is Young Eagles student pilot and scholar Taylor Goodrich. 

“My dad was a private pilot, he was my initial inspiration,” Taylor Goodrich said. “I’ve joined Civil Air Patrol, and that’s really helped to push me forward in this. Now I’m applying for service academies and Military Service Academy. I want to fly fighter jets for the military, and that’s kind of my end goal.”

From first flights to future careers, the Young Eagles program is giving students a chance to reach both the sky and their dreams.

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Jillian Fortner

(Update: Teacher of the Year honor announced; background)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Department of Education, in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, .announced Tuesday morning that Redmond High School English Teacher Mona Mensing is one of Oregon’s 16 2025-26 Regional Teachers of the Year.

Mensing was honored in a surprise all-school assembly. KTVZ News was there and will have more on tonight’s broadcasts.

Here’s the rest of the announcement:

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon.

Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.  

Mensing was nominated by one of her students, who wrote, “She pushes her students to work their absolute best and helps them achieve their true potential.” They also added, “She makes me feel seen and heard as both a student and a person.” 

The Principal of Redmond High School, Audrey Haugan, touted, “Mona Mensing represents the very best of what teaching can and should be: a profession driven by passion, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to student success. She is not just teaching English; she is inspiring young minds, fostering critical thinking, and helping shape the next generation of thoughtful, young adults.” 

In her nomination, Mensing noted, “I have always felt like nurturing teenagers in a classroom all day comes with great responsibility to let them know the importance of their world outside.” 

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state.

Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development. 

“We are thrilled to recognize this year’s Regional Teachers of the Year – outstanding educators whose tireless dedication, creativity, and compassion enrich the lives of students and communities across Oregon,” said Director of Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each recipient embodies the values of innovation, leadership, and inclusivity, and we are proud to honor and learn from their inspiring work. These extraordinary teachers remind us that great education transforms lives and strengthens communities.” 

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October. Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, more than $4.1 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Redmond School District, and over $14.5 million went to Deschutes County. 

“This group of standout Oregon teachers bring their passion for education and leadership abilities to work every day,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “Oregon Lottery is proud to celebrate the meaningful impact these educators have on our students and communities.”    

On Friday, September 19, once all 16 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. 

Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2026-27 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org. 

Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers. REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Excitement is building at Redmond High School this morning with a special announcement on the way. The school is hosting a surprise reveal for the Regional Teacher of the Year award.

The recognition comes from a partnership between the Oregon Department of Education and the Oregon Lottery. It honors teacher excellence through nominations from students, colleagues, and administrators.

Each Regional Teacher of the Year receives a $1,000 cash prize and moves forward as a finalist for Oregon State Teacher of the Year, which will be announced in October.

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Spencer Sacks

(Update: Adding video, details)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Governor Tina Kotek sent a letter Tuesday to the heads of all state agencies, telling them to immediately halt any out of state non emergency travel and to prepare for major budget cuts.

Kotek said in a statement, ” Budget challenges demand that we, as leaders, have the courage to take our best laid plans and put them back on the drawing board as conditions change – to sharpen our pencils, do more with less, and ground ourselves in what matters most.”

The governor listed three actionable items in the statement. First, all agencies should slow operational general and lottery fund spending. Second, Oregon’s chief financial officer will determine reduction targets. Finally, the state will reduce out-of-state travel costs.

This comes after the budget lawmakers passed back in June with a projected surplus of $437 million has now turned into a projected shortfall of $375 million – an over $800 million swing.

Kotek has previously blamed President Trump and the One Big Beautiful Bill for the state’s shortfall, though Oregon Republicans have called out the governor’s and Democrats’ spending.

Read the full letter below:

091625-governors-letter-to-agency-leaders

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The U.S. Postal Service is looking for candidates to provide delivery services along designated routes in suburban and rural areas on weekdays, weekends, and holidays, indoors and outdoors to families across their communities. 

Here’s the full USPS announcement:

Those who attend these hiring events will find a wealth of information on USPS employment within the Bend Sort & Delivery Center (S&DC) and friendly staff to help interested patrons navigate the hiring process,” said Janella Herron, USPS Communications Specialist. 

Career employees can earn premium long-term benefits that complement good pay. Some of the benefits include: 

Multiple health and life insurance choicesPension benefits and a Thrift Savings Plan program, similar to a 401(k)Vacation time and sick leave

Current positions:

City Carrier Assistant (CCA)Rural Carrier Assistant (RCA)Starting salary for RCA is $20.85/hr.Starting salary for CCA is $20.73/hr.Both paid bi-weekly. 

Recruitment Office Location:

Bend Sort & Delivery Center2300 NE Fourth StreetBend, OR 97701 

Time:

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

Date:

September 18September 25October 2 

As part of its 10-year plan, Delivering for America, the United States Postal Service is focused on building a more stable and empowered workforce.   

The Postal Service offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes medical, dental, and vision, as well as the ability to accrue vacation and sick leave; see online job announcements for full details. 

Each position requires examination requirements, depending on the position, review job announcements for full details.  

At the time of appointment, applicants must have a valid driver’s license from the state in which they live.  

Applicants must also demonstrate and maintain a safe driving record. Applicants selected under this qualification standard must successfully complete the required Vehicle Familiarization and Safe Operation training, including demonstration of the ability to safely drive a vehicle of the type used on the job. 

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service’s requirement to be drug-free. Applicants must also be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident alien status.

For additional information on how to apply for positions, visit us online at How to Apply for a Postal Service Jobs. 

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KTVZ

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — In a heartbreaking case of animal hoarding, 298 dogs were recently confiscated from a property in Ensenada, Mexico, where they were found living in unimaginable conditions.

Most of the dogs were crammed into tiny metal cages, trapped in complete darkness, suffering from malnutrition, untreated injuries, and severe neglect. The scale and severity of the abuse are truly shocking. 

In response, Street Dog Hero, a Central Oregon-based nonprofit dedicated to rescuing dogs in need, is stepping up to help. In just two weeks, the organization will welcome 10 of the rescued dogs to Oregon, where they will receive critical medical care and begin the journey toward finding loving homes. 

“Rescue is tough everywhere right now,” says Marianna Cox, Founder of Street Dog Hero. “But we couldn’t turn our backs on these dogs. They’ve already gone through so much, and they deserve a second chance.” 

Kelli Delperdang of Street Dog Hero told KTVZ News, “The dogs will be coming to Central Oregon (maybe a few will go to Portland).”

“We have reached out to the Humane Society of Central Oregon as well, offering to take in dogs from their recent hoarding case,” she added, “so once the court order is lifted, we can hopefully take in some of those dogs as well, to be able to help locally as well as internationally.” 

Here’s the rest of Street Dog Hero’s news release:

Street Dog Hero’s mission extends beyond international borders. Just last week, nearly 50 dogs were rescued from a hoarding case in Central Oregon, and Street Dog Hero has reached out to the Humane Society of Central Oregon to offer assistance once a court order is lifted. 

“These heartbreaking hoarding situations happen far more often than people realize,” adds Marianne Cox. “Each of these dogs deserves safety, care, and the chance to live a happy life. That’s what we’re here to provide.” 

To support their efforts, Street Dog Hero is inviting the community to participate in their biggest fundraiser of the year — the 6th Annual Heroes on the Run, a 5K, 10K, and Kids’ Mini-Run event. Funds raised will directly support rescues like the Ensenada case, helping provide veterinary care, shelter, transport, and adoption services. 

Heroes on the Run 2025 

• When: Sunday, September 28th. 9am-2pm 

• Where: Riverbend Park 

• Register at: https://bit.ly/45jOmbk 

• Use code HERO25 for 20% OFF all registrations 

Your participation makes a lifesaving difference. Proceeds will help dogs recover from abuse, find loving homes, and ensure no dog is left behind — no matter where they come from. 

Together, we can give these innocent animals the future they deserve. 

About Street Dog Hero 

For over 8 years, Street Dog Hero has been fulfilling its mission of helping end animal overpopulation by spaying and neutering owned and street dogs and cats around the world. To date, the organization has provided more than 11,495 free or reduced-rate spay/neuter and other wellness services to animals in Mexico, Jamaica, as well as locally. They have also rescued over 3,936 dogs from more than a dozen countries like Mexico, South Korea, China, India, Bahamas, Afghanistan, Armenia and right here in the United States and have found them forever homes. Street Dog Hero is making lasting positive changes in the lives of animals and their humans, working towards a world where all dogs are healthy, safe, cared for, and wanted. Through this work, SDH makes a lasting impact on owned and street dogs and cats and the families that surround them. To learn more about SDH, foster, adopt, volunteer, and donate, go to www.streetdoghero.org.  

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Deschutes Historical Museum has just announced an escape room experience based on real local history. Your team of up to six players works together to find clues, solve puzzles and escape The Curse of the Curate’s Collection.

Playing the part of Research Interns, participants assist historian A.R. Chive in locating the missing collection before your rivals do. Oh, and times-a-ticking … you only have 60 minutes on the clock, so every moment is crucial to your escape!

The Story:

In 1909, the Bend Bulletin announced that Rev. J. Anthony Mitchell, local curate and acquirer of antiquities, was “collecting towards a museum” for the community of Bend. After his death in 1911, Mitchell’s relics and curios were frequently exhibited around town, eventually finding a permanent home at the Deschutes Public Library.

However, in 1969, the few remaining items in the collection mysteriously disappeared from a small, locked room in the library’s basement. The only remnants of the once-noted collection, purchased by the public and the city of Bend in 1912 to form a city museum, were never found.

Until now!

The Curse of the Curate’s Collection escape room program will kick off on October 10 and 11, with additional dates throughout the month of October. Tickets go on sale October 1 at deschuteshistory.org.

A fundraiser and membership drive, Escape the Museum is sold as an adventure for six people. Escape the Museum costs $180 for non-members, $150 for members. As a bonus, each non-member purchase receives one free household membership.

Grab your friends, form a team, and get ready to find out the location of Father Mitchell’s collection.

Tickets and more information at deschuteshistory.org or by calling 541-389-1813.

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