Category: ktvz-local-news

Isabella Warren

(Update: Adding video, comments from county commissioners)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– Deschutes County Commissioners will now decide Deschutes County’s interim Sheriff.

Commissioner Patti Adair said at Wednesday’s board meeting, “We do want to select the person that we feel will help with that seamless transition and bring back the transparency and respect that the department should be recognized with. “

By 5 p.m. Thursday, his resignation will be set, giving commissioners just over a month to find his replacement.  If a replacement is not decided on by July 31st, Undersheriff Aaron Wells will fill the spot. 

Phil Chang said, “They’ve been living under a cloud of uncertainty. Not knowing. Not knowing who their leader is going to be. Not feeling trust for the person who is currently their sheriff. “

Controversy has surrounded current Sheriff Kent van der Kamp since his election, after Deschutes County District Attorney Steve Gunnels placed him on the county’s Brady list, meaning he is barred from giving testimony in future cases as an expert witness because of issues regarding his truthfulness.

A formal recall effort is now underway in Deschutes County calling for Sheriff van der Kamp to step down. KTVZ News obtained an email sent to county officials Tuesday, where van der Kamp announced his official resignation date to be July 31st. Previously, he shared his retirement would occur in the “coming months”.

County clerk Steve Dennison told KTVZ News van der Kamp is eligible for recall on July 7th, where supporters will need to provide over 16,000 signatures. 

But Dennison says the process would pass van der Kamp’s July 31st last day, meaning, despite a recall election, he would still be removed from office. 

The sheriff’s employee union will hold a public candidate forum on July 7th. Those candidates are required to share statements with commissioners by July 11th to be considered.

“Immediately following the November election, there was a morale surge, a surge in recruitment, retention surged. There was a lot of really positive feeling, both inside the sheriff’s office and outside. I am hoping that this appointment will help to put us back on track,” said Chang.

The picked sheriff would be in office for just over a year until November of 20-26 when voters will decide who fills the position.

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Jillian Fortner

(Update: Adding video, adding comments from parents, HDESD statement)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Parents, caregivers, and teachers are urging the High Desert Education Service District to reconsider budget cuts that would reduce services for children with special needs.

“Recently, the HDESD Board approved a budget for the 2025–2026 school year that reflects the difficult reality of a substantial funding shortfall in our Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) program,” said HDESD Communication Strategist, Linda Quon. 

If the budget hadn’t passed by June 30, the regional provider that offers early intervention, special education, and support services for children up to age 5 risked losing all of its funding.

The early intervention/early childhood special education is a grant-funded program.

Tiffany Nusser’s daughter, Adelynn, who is autistic and nonverbal, is one of the children impacted. Nusser says the cuts may reduce her classroom time from three days a week to two.

“I was heartbroken when they said that they’re passing that budget.” said Adelynn’s mother, Tiffany Nusser.

The changes mean fewer staff members, including Adelynn’s teacher, with whom she’s formed a strong bond at the Alyce Hatch Center.

“I get emotional… she’ll just think someone is gone at preschool. She’ll show up there and expect to see her teacher and she won’t be there anymore. I’m unsure what that will be like for her,” Nusser said.

Jennifer Underhill says she’s disappointed by the budget cuts, noting that school has played a vital role in her son Grayson’s development.

“He started going to Alyce Hatch when he was 3, and we’ve seen a significant difference in his social skills and intentional play,” said Grayson’s mom, Jennifer Underhill.

She’s worried about what next year will bring without the same level of support.

“Especially kiddos like Grayson that need someone to help him … he really needs one-on-one support,” Underhill said. “He won’t have that when he goes back next year.”

The High Desert Education Service District says it understands families’ concerns and remains committed to supporting students. They’re working to redesign how services are delivered to adapt to ongoing funding challenges.

Here’s the full statement from High Desert Education Service District:

MEDIA STATEMENT: Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education Program Budget Reductions

June 23, 2025

At High Desert Education Service District (HDESD), the well-being and growth of the children and families we serve are fundamental to everything we do. Recently, the HDESD Board approved a budget for the 2025–2026 school year that reflects the difficult reality of a substantial funding shortfall in our Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) program. This challenge is largely driven by projected flat federal funding levels and increased operational costs.

We recognize and deeply understand the concerns raised by parents and community members. These concerns are shared by our leadership, educators, and staff, many of whom have dedicated their careers to serving children with disabilities and their families.

While some changes to staffing and service delivery are necessary, our unwavering commitment is to maintain high-quality, individualized support for all eligible children. We are working diligently to redesign how we deliver these services so that we can preserve essential supports while being fiscally responsible. Key changes include:

Maintaining core services across all age groups, with some adjustments to frequency or method of delivery.

Prioritizing early learning and family engagement, including expanded parent coaching and support options.

Strengthening community partnerships to continue services in preschool and childcare settings.

These shifts will allow us to continue supporting children in ways that are meaningful and effective, while adapting to the current funding climate. We believe in the foundational principle that “special education is a service, not a place,” and will continue to focus on inclusion, development, and readiness for kindergarten.

We are communicating transparently with families about these changes and will continue to offer updates, opportunities for engagement, and support throughout this transition. 

We are grateful to the families and educators who are standing with us in our mission to help every child learn, grow, and thrive.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. [KTVZ] — Oregon Senator Anthony Broadman has introduced a bold amendment aimed at better funding the state’s wildfire prevention efforts. 

Oregon lawmakers have dedicated much of this legislative session to developing a new funding strategy to help the state better respond to increasingly severe wildfires.  

One of the latest proposals: an amendment to House Bill 3940, a tax on the sale of oral nicotine products, such as nicotine pouches.   

This proposal follows Oregon’s House-passed HB 3940, which would levy 65 cents on nicotine pouches with up to 20 units, plus an additional 3 cents per extra unit.   

The expected revenue is 14.3 million dollars over two years. 

The revenue would be split between two state wildfire mitigation programs: one-third to the Landscape Resiliency Fund and two-thirds to the Community Risk Reduction Fund. The same amendment also pulls interest revenue from the state’s rainy-day fund to double the impact. 

Former Bend City Councilor and current Oregon Democratic Senator, Anthony Broadman, who offered the amendment along with Oregon Democratic Representative, Pam Marsh said, this proposed tax is one of the most reasonable amendments, to keep up with rising wildfire costs.  

“We have a proposal in front of the legislature – a new tax on synthetic nicotine. So, products like ZYN, which you’ll see in convenience stores, it’s currently untaxed.” 

Broadman also said, “It has a nexus to wildfire risk in that it is a public health issue, and where we’re used to taxing nicotine to ensure that we’re providing public health solutions, and so for 65 cents a can for about a penny for every milligram of nicotine, that’s in one of these cans, we can, help keep our community safe from wildfire.” 

Every inch of Oregon is susceptible to wildfires. 

“Every pouch that is sold in Oregon stores will hopefully help prevent a community, or timber, wildlife or, our forests, from the risk of catastrophic wildfire,” said Sen. Broadman. 

KTVZ News spoke with a number of convenience stores and local family markets like Bruce and Nikki’s Parkway Deli, in Bend. 

We asked, if nicotine pouches are taxed, do you think customers would still buy the product.  

“Oh yeah, absolutely I do. And, I think, we’ll hear some complaints, but in the long run it’s only bringing the price up to the same price as the tobacco products such as Copenhagen and Skol and whatnot, so it’ll be the same prices,” said Bruce and Nikki’s Parkway Deli Cashier, Michael Wallace. 

 The amendment awaits a vote in the Oregon Senate as lawmakers rush to finalize budget measures ahead of the June 29th adjournment.  

KTVZ News will continue to follow whether this nicotine tax amendment survives the legislative process.

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Cami Porter

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ)– Oregon’s 5th district congresswoman Janelle Bynum celebrates a major legislative win tonight. Three of her bipartisan bills aimed at helping small businesses pass the House and are now headed to the U.S. Senate.

The measures focus on improving access to capital for entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas and cutting red tape for companies looking to grow. Bynum says these bills are about creating opportunity and giving business owners a fair shot at success. If signed into law, they could help startups across the country hit the ground running.

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KTVZ News Partners

La Pine, OR — Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver (HFHLPS) is excited to announce the award of a $2.1 million grant from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) as part of the Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) Housing Program to support the launch of Park View, a new 34-home affordable housing development located in North La Pine.

“OHCS is proud to partner with community leaders to boost affordable homeownership that invests in the value and vibrancy of rural Oregon,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “No other issue, except the cost of living, hits as close to home. Through local and state partnerships, we are delivering results to strengthen communities. Housing progress is not about numbers and abstracts, nor is it about advancement on state government’s terms. Today, we are delivering progress that reflects the values of this community to make everyday life better for its residents.”

This transformative grant will fund the construction of the first 10 high-efficiency, fire-resistant townhomes and a portion of the infrastructure required to support the entire neighborhood.

Park View represents HFHLPS’s largest and most ambitious project to date—offering long-term, permanently affordable housing to hardworking families earning between 60–80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The community will be built gradually between 2025 and 2030, with infrastructure construction already started and the first homes slated for completion by Fall 2026.

“This is more than a housing development—it’s a lasting investment in families and the La Pine community,” said Scott Asla, Board Chair for HFHLPS. “With the LIFT funding and strong local support, we’re poised to make homeownership a reality for dozens of families who are ready to build equity, stability, and a future.”

The LIFT funding represents almost 50% over the overall funding needed for the first phase of Park View. In addition to the current funding in place, HFHLPS will work to raise an additional $50,000 per home. Currently, applications for qualified homebuyers are open. Prospective homeowners must meet income requirements, contribute sweat equity, and complete homeowner education as part of the selection process.

A groundbreaking for Park View will be held June 27th at 10am. To RSVP, contact info@habitatlapinesunriver.org.

For more information about Park View, homeowner qualifications, or to donate, visit: www.habitatlapinesunriver.org

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KTVZ News Partners

RootedHomes, a leading affordable homeownership organization in Central Oregon, today announced the appointment of Nathan “Than” Clevenger as its new Executive Director and Eliza Wilson as Deputy Director. These leadership changes come as Karl Dinkelspiel steps down from his role as Interim Executive Director and Deputy Director, effective June 26, 2025. 

As the new Executive Director of RootedHomes, Than brings over two decades of extensive experience in real estate development and affordable housing across North America. 

“I am humbled to be selected to help lead an organization that is at the forefront of leveraging their experience in construction and community development to create the American dream for hard-working families in Central Oregon.” – Than Clevenger

As Deputy Director, Eliza will play a key role in expanding access to permanently affordable homeownership and supporting long-term housing stability, while also serving as Chair of Central Oregon’s Continuum of Care and a board member of the Regional Housing Council.

“My work has always been about building systems that respond to the full spectrum of housing needs—from crisis to stability. Joining RootedHomes is a natural extension of that mission, and I’m looking forward to deepening cross-sector partnerships to ensure everyone has access to a safe, affordable place to call home.” – Eliza Wilson

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Gregory Deffenbaugh

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ — A bald eagle recently spotlighted in a Problem Solvers report on the dangers of lead poisoning in wildlife has made a return to the wild after weeks of rehabilitation.

The majestic bird was rescued earlier this year after suffering from severe lead poisoning, likely from ingesting fragments of lead bullets in animal remains left behind by hunters. The toxin can be deadly to birds of prey, causing neurological damage, weakness, and even death if untreated.

After he was examined, veterinarians determined he had lead poisoning. However, it was not because the eagle was shot. It likely ate something that still had bullet fragments left in it. This incident has think wild spreading the word, don’t shoot animals with lead bullets.

“We often treat raptors that have some level of lead in their system, sometimes high enough that it does end up being fatal for them,” said Molly Honea, Communications Director for the non-profit.

She added, “We encourage people who are hunting for subsistence or shooting at marmots and ground squirrels to choose lead free alternatives. They’re effective and they’re out there and they aren’t going to cause, lead to get into our wildlife”.

Think Wild knows hunters have a great interest in wildlife conservation, and they hope stories like this will encourage them to make the switch.

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KTVZ News Partners

REDMOND, OR – June 5, 2025 — Overland Expo Pacific Northwest, the premier overland event series in the United States, returns June 27–29, 2025, to the Deschutes County Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. This three-day event is a must-attend for adventure travelers of all skill levels, offering more than 300 exhibitors, 175+ hands-on classes and workshops, training and driving courses, and a chance to connect with the passionate overlanding community.

“Overland Expo PNW is a celebration of adventure, education and community in one of the most beautiful regions of the country,” said Jessica Kirchner, Vice President of Consumer Events for Emerald. “Whether you’re attending inspiring classes and hands-on experiences, meeting our incredible exhibitors and checking out the latest gear, or swapping stories around the campfire…there’s something here for every type of explorer.”

Set against the stunning backdrop of Central Oregon, Overland Expo PNW is the ultimate destination to Get Outfitted, Get Trained, Get Inspired, and Get Going. With an unmatched lineup of world-class instructors, top brands in the automotive and adventure travel gear spaces, and a packed schedule of workshops, happy hours, film screenings, and community events, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re new to overlanding or a seasoned vet. 

Vehicle Experiences:

Overland Expo Training (Sold Out): The popular Thursday-only Overland Expo Training program offers intensive, full-day instruction with a low trainee-to-trainer ratio and covers essential skills like driving techniques, vehicle recovery, preparedness and maintenance. 

Trail Course Driving Experience (NEW for 2025), Sponsored by COMEUP Winch: In response to attendee requests, the new Trail Course Driving Experience offers an affordable, high-impact opportunity for day pass and camping pass holders to bring their own vehicles and tackle a custom-built overland course with guidance from expert trainers. 

Demo Rides: JackRabbit Mobility will be on-site, offering live demo rides of their latest electric machines.

Event Highlights:

Happy Hours: There will be an exclusive happy hour for campers and exhibitors sponsored by Toyo Tires (Thursday, June 26, 5–7 p.m.) and happy hours open to all pass holders sponsored by MAXXIS (Friday, June 27, 5–7 p.m.) and Pelican Products (Saturday, June 28, 5–7 p.m.). These are excellent opportunities to grab a drink and a bite to eat and network with fellow enthusiasts.

Women Who Wander Fireside Chat & Networking (Friday, June 27, 6-8 p.m.): A dedicated space to connect, learn, and share experiences with fellow women travelers.

Overland Expo Film Festival (Friday, June 27, 7–9 p.m.): A celebration of global adventures and untold stories, featuring Emmy-winner Grace Schuessler’s Where the Wild Things Are and Latitude 70 by world travelers and filmmakers Roy Rudnick and Michelle Francine Weiss.

Toyota Game Night (Friday, June 27, 7–9 p.m.): Enjoy free food, drinks and prizes.

Camp Subaru Live! (Saturday, June 28, 6–8 p.m.): Kick back with light bites, wine and beer, and live music. 

Overland Expo Foundation Charity Raffle (Saturday, June 28, 7–9 p.m.): Give back to the community while winning top gear from premium overland brands.

Camping and Tickets:

Overland Expo PNW offers on-site camping at the Deschutes County Expo Center, providing easy access to classes, exhibitors, and evening events. Overland Expo PNW offers day passes, weekend passes, and premium camping packages. Attendees are encouraged to secure tickets early as camping spots are expected to sell out. Buy tickets and camping passes here. 

Upcoming 2025 Overland Expo Events:

Overland Expo Mountain West – August 22-24, 2025 | Loveland, CO

Overland Expo East – October 3-5, 2025 | Arrington, VA

For event updates, schedules, and the latest announcements, download the Overland Expo mobile app (available two weeks before the event), follow Overland Expo on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, or visit overlandexpo.com.

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KTVZ News Partners

SALEM, Ore. – With fireworks sales beginning today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2025 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” 

As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks—whether celebrating at home or traveling.

“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

Fireworks safety and legal reminders

Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

Public lands and parks

National parks and forests

Bureau of Land Management lands

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties

Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds

Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.

Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.

Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.

Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.

Illegal fireworks and consequences

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

Learn more

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.

For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal 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. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office. 

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KTVZ News Partners

Redmond, OR – The Bi-Mart Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo, in partnership with Indian Head Casino, announces that Grammy-nominated R&B artist Trey Songz will replace Tyga and perform live on Saturday, Aug. 2, as part of the 2025 Kendall Toyota of Bend FREE Summer Concert Series.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, Tyga will no longer be able to perform, but we’re excited to welcome Trey Songz as his replacement,” said Geoff Hinds, Director of the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. “Trey’s dynamic energy and strong fan connection make him a great addition to this year’s star-studded concert series.”

Trey Songz has sold 45 million records and has over 60 million followers across his social media platforms. Known for fan favorites like “Na Na,” “Bottoms Up,” and “Say Aah,” his accolades include multiple BET Awards, American Music Award nominations, and gold and platinum-certified singles.

The 2025 Kendall Toyota of Bend FREE Summer Concert Series also includes performances from Brothers Osborne, AWOLNATION, Diplo, and La Original Banda El Limón. New this year, Nashville-based DJ Grant Fisher will kick off each night with a pre-show performance and return after the headliner for a post-show set.

General seating for all concerts is FREE with a paid fair admission ticket, thanks to the generous support of Kendall Toyota of Bend. General seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, and early arrival is recommended.

Fairgoers looking for an elevated experience can purchase VIP tickets for seats in a premium viewing area. There are a limited number of VIP tickets available for each show, which start as low as $10, plus fair admission.

For more information on the fair schedule, attractions, ticketing, and to purchase VIP tickets, please visit www.deschutesfair.com.

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