KTVZ – News Team
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Central Oregon Area Commission on Transportation (COACT) will be holding a meeting next Thursday, September 11th, at Redmond City Hall and on Zoom.
That’s from 3-5 p.m. and the public is invited to make comments.
Again, it will take place at Redmond City Hall in civic room 207 and 208 and on zoom.
Kelsey Merison
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — At KTVZ News, we focus our resources on bolstering the health and well-being of Central Oregon’s youth through our 21 Cares for Kids partnerships. We have six incredible community partnerships that we’re highlighting through a monthly segment called ‘Making a Difference’.
This month, we’re spotlighting Every Child Central Oregon, which works to support the child welfare system in Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties, as well as Warm Springs.
“Our heart and mission has always been to go above and beyond,” said Melissa Lovemark, the executive director of the nonprofit.
At Every Child Central Oregon, children and families impacted by foster care are uplifted through community donations.
“We’re not just trying to give the bare minimum to kids. We want to give them more and be extremely generous,” Lovemark said.
The nonprofit offers tangible items that kids need.
“Everything from diapers, car seats, clothes, shoes, specialty items like toys. And then we’ll do one-off special request as well,” said Lovemark.
Lovemark was a foster parent herself.
“It changed my life…It changed my kids’ lives…It’s not easy. I would love to say it is, but it’s not. But it is the most rewarding thing you can do,” she said.
Jazlyn Lepez, the warehouse coordinator and soon-to-be volunteer coordinator, has also been a foster parent—and knows firsthand the difference that a service like this can make.
“I’m like, ‘Where do I go? Where am I going to get the help that I need?’ Knowing that we have Every Child here is really important,” said Lepez. “It’s been very impactful for me just to see how much of a difference a pack of diapers makes. I’ve had people literally tearing up at just the generosity of the community and just how important it is to them.”
And it’s all thanks to those that step up to support the foster children in our community—but the need is ever-growing.
“In 2024, we had a 300% increase in tangible need requests just out of this warehouse. And this year, 2025 already, we’re up another 20% requests for needs. We are meeting needs currently at about 95-98% that are sent in,” said Lovemark. “We are able to meet because of community support and the items that are coming in, but we don’t see the needs slowing down anytime soon. So any way that people can partner, sign up, get on our newsletter, just learn more about us (is helpful).”
Every Child Central Oregon is always accepting donations and volunteer support. To view the current needs and volunteer information, click here. To view special request needs, click here.
Triton Notary
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)–The Deschutes Historical Society is celebrating Bend businesses with a ‘Legacy Business Reception’. Read the full press release below.
Legacy Business Reception at theDeschutes Historical Museum
Celebrates Local Businesses
(Bend) – Join the Deschutes County Historical Society on Saturday, September 6 from 2 to 4 pm for a Legacy Business Reception to celebrate Deschutes County businesses that have reached the 50, 75, or even 100+ year milestones.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Deschutes County Historical Society, which operates the Deschutes Historical Museum. To share in our celebration, the museum is hosting a Legacy Business Reception to not only celebrate the longevity of these businesses but also offer a chance to share the history of their business with the historical society and museum visitors and document the changes their businesses have seen and lived through. Many of them are still owned and operated by the same family.
Root beer floats and strawberry shortcake served while they last.
Triton Notary
(Update: adding video)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team served a search warrant early Thursday morning at a Bend residence on the 60000 block of Alpine Drive.
Here is the press release from the CODE team:
Date of incident: Sept. 4, 2025
Case #: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – 2025-48997
Arrested & Offenses:
Claxton, Shawn Allen, 55-year-old Bend resident: Felony arrest warrant
Roberts, Brach Addison, 32-year-old Bend resident: Felony arrest warrant
Anderson, Alli Elizabeth, 33-year-old Bend resident: Misdemeanor arrest warrant
Flood, Jennifer Renee, 52-year-old Bend resident: Frequenting a place where controlled substances are used
Nelson, Kathryn Michele, 60-year-old Bend resident: Frequenting a place where controlled substances are used, Possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine
Press Release Information:
At approximately 9 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, detectives with the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team executed a search warrant in the 60000 block of Alpine Drive in Bend. Members of the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team (CERT) assisted CODE in serving the search warrant. Police vehicles parked in front of the residence with police lights flashing, several announcements were made directing occupants to exit the residence and that a search warrant was being served at the location. Multiple people exited the residence at that time.
After several minutes, Bend Police K9 Buck was deployed to search the residence and Brach Addison Roberts was found hiding in the residence. K9 Buck bit Roberts in his leg and arm area. Our investigation revealed Roberts had a felony warrant for his arrest and he fled into the residence when police arrived at the property. Roberts was treated at the scene for injuries and then taken to St. Charles Bend per policy. He was then lodged at the Deschutes County Jail.
During the search warrant service, police found 10 people on the property or in the residence. In addition to Roberts, two other people located at the scene had warrants for their arrest. Shawn Allen Claxton had a felony warrant for his arrest and Alli Elizabeth Anderson had a misdemeanor warrant for her arrest. They were both lodged at the Deschutes County Jail on the above-mentioned warrants. Jennifer Renee Flood and Kathryn Michele Nelson were issued citations with a court date to appear on the above-mentioned offenses.
A search of the location revealed a small quantity of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and other drug-related items.
This was a long-term investigation with multiple reports of people coming and going from this location after short visits, consistent with drug activity. CODE detectives continued this investigation, and were able to verify that drug activity was taking place. No additional details will be released.
CODE was assisted by several local law enforcement partners, and we want to thank them all for the assistance. The CODE team will continue to investigate and take action at locations where drug activity is occurring.
The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and the following Central Oregon law enforcement agencies: Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police Department, Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department, Oregon State Police, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Police Department, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Warm Springs Tribal Police Department, Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County District Attorney’s, and the Oregon National Guard.
The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement task forces to disrupt or dismantle local, multi-state and international drug trafficking organizations.
Jillian Fortner
(update: adding comments from business owners, program coordinator)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Central Oregon entrepreneurs have just days left to apply for COCC’s Small Business Management Program.
Applications are due September 8, with acceptance decisions announced September 15.
This nine-month program is designed to help business owners strengthen and grow their companies. Those who participate will get hands-on business coaching, strategic peer learning and real-world case studies.
“The Small Business Management program is the longest running program at the Small Business Development Center. It’s been around for a few decades now. It’s a flagship program across the state as well,” Program Coordinator, Keith Sherrill explained.
Sherrill adds that the program also brings in guest experts from fields like banking and business practices, depending on the needs of each year’s cohort.
Each business owner will design and complete an individual capstone project during the course, tailored to their own business.
Annie Little, owner of Washable Laundry, recently completed the program and recommends it to other entrepreneurs. She operates laundromat locations in both Bend and Sisters.
“If you are wanting to take your business to the next level, go ahead and get into this group,” said Little.
Little says one of the biggest benefits was connecting with other local entrepreneurs to discuss the specific challenges of running a business in Central Oregon.
“I have a great network of laundromat owners across the country, none of it was specific to doing business here in Central Oregon,” Little said. “Bend really is an island and that, things that apply in major metros are really not applicable here.”
Doug Stevens, owner of Spoons of Sisters, also took part in the business program. He and his wife have run the breakfast and lunch restaurant for the past eight years.
“The networking with other small businesses was excellent. Just sharing similar issues regardless of the industry was informative and helpful,” said Doug Stevens. “Sherill is an engrossing instructor.”
The program wraps up with a live pitch event, giving participants the chance to compete for a share of $10,000 in prize money.
To qualify, applicants must already be in business for at least one year, employ at least one person, provide monthly financials, and commit to the program.
For more information or to apply, contact the COCC Small Business Development Center at sbdc@cocc.edu or 541-383-7290.
Matthew Draxton
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office officially confirmed the identity of the third and final individual from the July 19th Dillon Falls tragedy, as Derek Slesinger.
After weeks of search and rescue operations, on August 21st, two kayakers exploring Lava Island Falls reported seeing a body in the rapids downstream from Dillon Falls. DCSO conducted a five hour operation with the help of Bend Fire & Rescue to recover the individual in an inaccessible, and swift water area.
Sleisinger of Delaware was visiting Central Oregon as part of a group of six friends on the weekend of the incident. Three individuals of the group survived, while Sleisinger along with two other individuals tragically died. The other two individuals are Amanda Loyd, 39, of Rockwall, Texas and Lindsay Bashan, 33, of Parkland, Florida.
Sleisinger’s mother, Diana Adames, met with Sheriff Ty Rupert, and asked for privacy from the public during this time, but offered heartfelt appreciate to the Sheriff’s Office, detectives, and Search and Rescue Teams. Despite the heartbreak, she expressed to the Sheriff her gratitude for closure and the ability to honor her son’s life.
In an interview today, Sheriff Rupert said he spent time with Adames nearly every day while the search was ongoing. The Sheriff found the experience humbling, but the way the Central Oregon came together during this was inspiring.
“I stayed in contact every day with the mom virtually every day throughout this entire time.” Said Sheriff Rupert J”ust hearing her, of how welcome she felt in our community and how supported she felt in our community. It just makes me even more proud to be the sheriff in Deschutes County.”
Below is part of the DCSO press release
“We are incredibly grateful to our Search and Rescue volunteers for their tireless dedication and to the kayakers who came forward when they discovered Derek. Most importantly, we are thankful his family has answers and some measure of closure after weeks of uncertainty. That is what matters most,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert.
The recovery of Slesinger officially ends the search efforts connected to the Dillon Falls tragedy. Since July 12, Search and Rescue teams have devoted hundreds of hours to combing the stretch of river around Dillon Falls. Strong currents and Class VI rapids make recovery operations of this nature extremely difficult. Sections of the Deschutes River create additional challenges, with dangerous, unpredictable, and constantly shifting conditions. Slesinger was recovered in swift waters, and how Slesinger came to rest at Lava Island Falls will never be fully known.
“I also want to recognize the many partner agencies that assisted throughout these operations—Bend Fire & Rescue, Bend Police Department, The Portland Police Bureau, Civil Air Patrol, the Oregon State Marine Board, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, AirLink, and Leading Edge Aviation,” added Sheriff Rupert. “These efforts take teamwork, persistence, and coordination across many agencies, and I am proud of everyone who contributed. In the end, it was a combination of that teamwork and two kayakers being in the right place at the right time that allowed us to bring this case to a close.”
The Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that rivers can be unpredictable and dangerous. It’s essential to plan ahead, know take-out locations on rivers, obey all posted warnings, and always have a life jacket. These steps are critical for anyone recreating on local waterways.
Statement by Derek Slesinger’s Mother, Diana Adames
On behalf of my family, I want to thank the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue, and all of the agencies and people who helped bring closure to this accident.
There have been a lot of rumors about what happened, but the truth is, most people don’t know or understand the whole story. I spent many days out on the river and was treated with such kindness by the Search and Rescue teams. They went above and beyond, spending more time than anyone can imagine searching for my boy. I also want to thank Sheriff Rupert, who kept me updated, took all my calls, and supported me every step of the way. I am deeply grateful to the kayakers who noticed my son in the river and came forward.
We may never know exactly where Derek was all this time or why he ended up downriver. None of that matters to me. What matters is that I can finally bring my son home, let him rest in peace, and close this chapter.
I also want to thank community members, like my new friends Piera and Kerri, who embraced, supported, and showed me kindness. Local businesses stepped up, such as Hook & Plow, Dear Mom Cafe, Still Vibrato, Donner Flower Shop, and 10 Barrel, who were so good to me. I’ll never forget it. They showed me the wonderful side of humanity.
As my family and I bring Derek home, I ask that our privacy be respected so we can say goodbye and let him rest in peace. Please know that my gratitude to this community, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, its Search & Rescue teams, and everyone who stood by me is heartfelt and will remain with me forever.
Diana Adames
Kelsey Merison
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Get ready to catch a wave at Bend’s SURFEST, happening September 13th and 14th at the Bend Whitewater Park at Mckay Park!
It’s benefiting the Central Oregon Surf Team Association and Bend Paddle Trail Alliance and will feature some of the best surfers in the Northwest competing for over $10,000 in prizes.
It happens from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m both days.
Contestants can sign up now at centraloregonsurf.com. Registration is $40 but spectators can watch for free!
Read the full press release below:
“Get Ready To Catch The Wave at Bend’s SURFEST breaking September 13th and 14th at Mckay Park benefiting The Central Oregon Surf Team Association (COSTA) and Bend Paddle Trail Alliance. This premier river surfing event will feature some of the best Surfers in the Northwest competing for over $10,000 in prizes.
‘Come hang out with us on the river for a weekend packed with music, positive vibes, like minded vendors, art and entertainment as we watch contestants ride the wave. Bend SURFEST is not just about the competition; it’s about fostering a vibrant and supportive surfing community. Participants will compete in various heats, showcasing their talents on the river’s dynamic waves.’ -States COSTA Founder Chip Conrad
Location:Bend Whitewater Park 166 SW Shevlin-Hixon Dr, Bend, OR @ Mckay Park
Dates: September 13th & 14th
Time:10-6pm
Contestants Sign Up Now @ https://www.centraloregonsurf.com
Registration Fee: $40.00
Free Spectator Event for All Ages
Follow us on Socials: ● Facebook @ www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573469458243 ● Instagram @ costasurfteams
About COSTA: Central Oregon Surf Team Association (COSTA) is based in Bend, Oregon, dedicated to community, character, and water stewardship. Founded to give people a fun, empowering outlet through surfing, COSTA combines the thrill of river waves with leadership development, environmental responsibility, and lifelong skills.
About Bend Paddle Alliance: Bend Paddle Alliance (BPTA) promotes and establishes a navigable paddle trail within Deschutes County that enhances river and lake recreation and appreciation for a wide variety of recreational water enthusiasts.”
KTVZ – News Team
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Starting September 2025, the City of Bend will implement changes to the City Council meeting schedule. The change will result in more frequent but shorter meetings and separate the Council Work Session meetings from the Business meetings. Additionally, separating the Work Sessions and Business Meetings honors their distinct purposes and provides dedicated time and appropriate settings for each.
The changes are captured below and include updates to both the City Council Business Meetings and Work Sessions:
Business Meetings occur every first and third Wednesday, unless otherwise noted.
Where: City of Bend Council Chambers, City Hall, 710 NW Wall Street.
Start time: 6 p.m.
Agenda: Posted on City Council Meetings, Agendas, and Videos | City of Bend a week prior to the meeting.
How to join: Attend in person or virtually. Virtual participation information is found on the meeting agenda.
Visitor’s Section: Occurs at the beginning of each business meeting. Instructions can be found on City Council Meetings, Agendas, and Videos | City of Bend.
Executive Session: When scheduled, executive sessions will occur prior to the start of the business meeting. This will be noted on the City of Bend Calendar, “Upcoming Council Meetings,” and on the meeting’s agenda.
Work Sessions occur every second and fourth Wednesday, unless otherwise noted.
Where: City of Bend Council Chambers, City Hall, 710 NW Wall Street.
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Agenda: Posted on City Council Meetings, Agendas, and Videos | City of Bend a week prior to the meeting.
How to join: Attend in person or virtually. Virtual participation information is found on the meeting agenda.
There is no Visitor’s Section or opportunity for public comment during the Work Session.
KTVZ – News Team
(Update: Adding video)
Bend, OR. (KTVZ) — A new nonprofit, Cascades Cannery, has launched in Central Oregon with a mission to reduce farm food waste, support local growers, and increase food security for the community. By collecting surplus produce from area farms, Cascades Cannery transforms it into healthy, shelf-stable products such as jams, sauces, pickled vegetables, and soups.
The effort is designed to address two challenges at once: the large amount of nutritious food that goes unharvested or unsold each season, and the ongoing need for reliable, year-round access to local food among families in Central Oregon.
“Every year, thousands of pounds of fresh produce are lost simply because markets can’t absorb it all,” said James Radnich, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Cascades Cannery. “Our work ensures this abundance isn’t wasted, but instead preserved to nourish our neighbors and support the farmers who grow it.”
Cascades Cannery operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with a dual approach:
Farm support: purchasing or gleaning surplus produce, giving growers a return on crops that might otherwise go unsold.
Community benefit: donating preserved foods to food banks and hunger-relief partners, while alsoselling products locally to generate income that sustains the mission.
The project is the first of its kind in Central Oregon and is currently building partnerships with farms, food access organizations, and local markets.
Community members who wish to get involved can learn more, donate, or sign up to volunteer at cascadescannery.org
Triton Notary
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– Think Wild is pleased to announce the successful release of the Northern flying squirrel patient admitted on July 20, 2025. She was released Friday night at dusk at the exact location where she was found in Virginia Meissner Sno-Park. Check out her release video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOHECRWkgOj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Upon release, the young squirrel explored a large dead ponderosa, nibbled on lichen, and found a crack in the bark to use as shelter—demonstrating strong natural instincts for survival and nest-seeking. As cavity nesters, this behavior is a positive sign that she is ready to reintegrate into her wild habitat and, hopefully, reunite with others of her species.
Think Wild thanks the community for their support and donations, which made her rehabilitation and care possible.
For more information about Think Wild and our wildlife rehabilitation efforts, visit www.thinkwildco.org.
