Category: ktvz-local-news

Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Snow sport enthusiasts–Mt. Bachelor has some exciting news!

While winter may seem far away, the resort is gearing up for another great season, and has announced upgrades to the Northwest Lift as well as a variety of new passholder perks.

In a recent press release, Mt. Bachelor said it’s working to improve Northwest’s efficiency and reliability to allow guests more consistent access to the beloved expert terrain on the west side of the mountain, with construction beginning in April of 2026.

It’s also introducing a variety of new passholder perks, including kids 12 and under receiving a free Unlimited Season Pass with the purchase of any adult Unlimited or Outplay 365 Pass.

Additionally, there will be a series of complimentary après activities focused on family fun added to the calendar!

Mt. Bachelor is projecting an opening date of November 28th, the day after Thanksgiving.

Read more from the press release below on additional announcements:

“Mt. Bachelor Announces Upgrades to Northwest Lift, New Community Programming and Passholder Perks 

Mt. Bachelor’s 24/25 season was one for the books with the earliest opening since 1998 and an above average season with over 450” of total snowfall. If thelong-range forecast holds true, skiers and riders will rejoice in yet another above-average snow season this winter.  

Looking to 25/26, Mt. Bachelor will begin upgrades to Northwest lift and introduce exciting additions to community programming, events, and passholder perks. A variety of season passes are available for purchase, with the best prices of the fall offered through September 30, including Kids Ski Freepasses, which go off sale on October 1.  

Here’s what skiers and riders can expect at Mt. Bachelor this season: 

Operations & Infrastructure 

Mt. Bachelor’s projected opening date is November 28, 2025. Conditions permitting, the resort will offer skiing and riding off Pine Marten, Little Pine, and Skyliner lifts. 

With efforts already underway, Mt. Bachelor will modernize the Northwest lift, improving the efficiency and reliability to allow guests more consistent access to the beloved expert terrain on the west side of the mountain. Construction is slated to begin in April 2026, with plans to ultimately replace the top and bottom operator shacks, electric drive components, expand the chair storage structure, and install a night drive system which will allow the haul rope to spin with no chairs on the line to minimize ice build-up and therefore operate with fewer weather impacts.  

As part of Mt. Bachelor’s Play Forever initiative to protect the environment and support the community, work continues on the state-of-the-art wood-fuel energy facility. This project will allow Mt. Bachelor to utilize existing slash piles in the Deschutes National Forest to generate heat for its base area buildings, eliminating most of the propane use across the resort. The facility will create a stable market for the biproduct of crucial fire mitigation work while reducing CO2 emissions that result from burning slash piles. The facility is on track to be fully operational by fall of 2026. 

Aspiring and seasoned freestyle riders will enjoy new layouts in several Woodward Mountain Parks, including a new beginner terrain park off Little Pine and a reimagined terrain park next to the 13’ halfpipe under Pine Marten lift. 

Rentals & Retail 

Mt. Bachelor Sports Rentals and Retail will open in Bend and Sunriver this season, in addition to existing locations at Sunrise and Mountain Gateway at the resort. These new winter locations will offer Salomon ski and Burton snowboard rentals, plus Mt. Bachelor logo wear, souvenirs, and accessories. For the best rental pricing, guests can purchase packages online in advance, select their preferred pick-up location, and return their equipment wherever it is most convenient. 

At their lowest price ever, Season-Long Rentalsare now available to book book online, offering families an easy and cost-effective way to hit the slopes this winter. At just $199 for an adult standard equipment package and $109 for a youth and juniors, the value is unbeatable. Each Season-Long Rental comes with unlimited free belt waxes and mid-season trade-ins for bigger sizes to help accommodate growth spurts and aid progression. Custom-fittings by skilled rental technicians at both Bend and Mountain Gateway will start in October.  

Kids & Community Programming 

Kids 12 & under get a FREE Unlimited Season Passwith the purchase of any adult Unlimited or Outplay 365 Pass. Additionally, there will be a series of complimentary après activities focused on family fun from s’more roasting and helmet decorating to face painting and lodge dance parties. 

Kids and families will also get chances to see Mt. Bachelor’s grooming cats and snow removal equipment up close. Operators will demonstrate how these impressive machines work and answer questions about their unique roles in keeping the mountain accessible. 

Signature multi-week programs for kids will continue offering progression sessions for all ability levels, with the addition of a “Park Rats” terrain-park focused program for aspiring freestyle riders, a tele-ski session, women’s-only meetups, and an adult multi-week session perfect for parents with kids in the program. Signature Programs can be booked here. 

Resort Events 

In addition to RendezVan, guests can look forward to a packed event line up with classics like the Dirksen Derby, Big Wave Challenge, Winter Pridefest, Subaru Winterfest, and the Annual North American Pond Skimming Championships. New this season, Mt. Bachelor is bringing a competition to a classic feature off Summit lift known as “the cornice” which will draw experts from across the industry for a jaw-dropping spectacle on top of Mt. Bachelor’s volcanic peak.  

On four occasions in 2026, Mt. Bachelor will host Moonlight Dinners at Pine Marten Lodge. After indulging in an exquisite multi-course meal at 7,800 feet, guests will carve fresh tracks down the mountain to cap off a truly unique and memorable evening. 

On the Nordic side, guests can look forward to Full Moon Luminaria Nights, guided sunset snowshoe tours, and the return of popular lesson offerings like Nord in 4, She’s On Skis, and Master’s Training Group. New for the 2025-26 season, the Nordic Center will offer kid’s ski camps during holiday periods, and a new XC race called the Moonlight Loppet.  

Passholder Perks  

Mt. Bachelor is excited to continue offering exclusive perks to Outplay, Full Season, and Midweek passholders, including: 

Revamped Passholder Parties at different locations in Bend with complimentary beer and rotating themes and games 

$5 beers at Deschutes Brewery and Boneyard Beer Company when you flash your pass 

Discounted Friends & Family tickets and Passholder Perk tickets 

Early lift access on select Saturdays throughout the season 

Passholder Appreciation Weekends with discounts on retail, rentals, demos, tune shop and food & beverage, plus early or late access to select lifts and the chance to win raffle prizes 

Exclusive discounts with Subaru North America (save up to $3,400!) 

Mt. Bachelor App  

In addition to providing maps, alerts, weather/operations updates, lift/trail statuses, wait times, emergency resources, and the ability to share real-time location with friends and family, the Mt. Bachelor mobile app will feature new competitions which unlock more than just bragging rights. This year, achievers can earn discounts and freebies at Mt. Bachelor’s restaurants and retail stores. Downloading the app is easy and free. Learn more here.”

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Claire Elmer

WARNING: This story includes discussion of suicide. Reader and viewer discretion is advised.

(Update: adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Monday in Bend at the Deschutes County Courthouse, Samson Garner took the stand in his own defense. Garner is accused of planning a mass shooting at Smith Rock in October of 2023.

Garner was questioned by his own legal team, largely about the email he had sent to an ex-girlfriend, in which described his plans to carry out the attack on climbers attending the Smith Rock Craggin’ Classic.

Garner testified at the time he sent the email, he was intoxicated and suicidal. He claimed he had been having intrusive thoughts and nightmares which scared him. 

In his testimony, Garner stated: “I remember seeing the email and having this intrusive image come into my head doing this, and it was terrifying…not something I wanted to be thinking. It’s not something I wanted to be — have — in my head.”

“I remember adding it to the email to Penny as just one of the other reasons that I wanted to take my own life. It was like I didn’t want to keep thinking these things. I didn’t want to carry out any of these things. I just would rather kill myself,” claimed Garner.

About a week after sending the email, Garner testified he had an epiphany in which he realized he had a reason to live. He wanted to get outdoors more and go target shooting — which he claimed is why he came to Central Oregon with an AR-15 and magazines. 

The defense planned to continue their examination of their client throughout the day on Monday and into Tuesday morning. 

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KTVZ – News Team

The Bend Economic Development Advisory Board (BEDAB) will conduct a hybrid meeting through Zoom and in person in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 710 NW Wall Street, Bend, OR 97703 on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Today’s agenda will include a discussion on the Electrification Policy Options and Joint Committee Process as well as a Neighborhood Commercial Presentation. Invest Bend will also show a presentation.

To attend via Zoom, Preregister

To Attend by Phone:

Call-in Phone Number: 1-888-788-0099

Webinar ID: 818 8514 3006

Passcode: 914089

YouTube Link:  Livestream the September BEDAB meeting

Technical Difficulties Connecting to this Meeting: Call 541-410-9341.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Art Sprouts, Inc., in partnership with the City of Bend, is gearing up for ‘Threads of Belonging: Brothers Ivan’ happening Sunday, September 14th.

It’s the first of three Welcoming Week events designed to celebrate culture, community, and belonging through art and story, which begins Friday.

Welcoming Week is a global movement that brings neighbors together across lines of difference to build community and affirm the belief that we all belong.

The Threads of Belonging event is free and will feature the Ukrainian folk duo, Brothers Ivan, whose music blends soulful harmonies, ancestral rhythms, and contemporary resonance.

Art Sprouts Inc. said the afternoon will open with a land acknowledgment and a traditional Ukrainian bread and salt ceremony, which is a gesture of gratitude and hospitality shared across generations.

Guests will also be invited to enjoy comforting Ukrainian food.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

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KTVZ – News Team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Fire risk remains high in Central Oregon despite recent rainfall. According to Central Oregon Fire Info, recent weather systems across the area brought abundant lightning, strong winds, and some much-needed rain.

But fuels such as grass, brush, and timber remain extremely dry, keeping wildfire risk high.

So far this month, wildland fire resources have responded to 76 incidents, including 46 wildfires, most caused by lightning.

Below is a portion of a press release from Central Oregon Fire Info pertaining to fire restrictions in place:

“As a reminder, Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions remain in effect on Central Oregon public lands. These rules prohibit open fires, including wood stoves and charcoal briquettes—except in designated, developed campgrounds. The use of internal combustion engines, including chainsaws, is also prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. For details and a list of designated campgrounds, visit centraloregonfire.org/fire-restrictions.

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Central Oregon Forest Protection District is also under Regulated Closure, which applies to private, state, and county forestlands it protects. These restrictions limit fires, smoking, and equipment use. For the latest information, visit ODF’s website or contact a local office.

Firefighters continue to respond quickly to new starts, but with peak fire season still underway, any spark can rapidly grow and threaten communities, firefighters, and natural resources.

The public plays a vital role in prevention: follow fire restrictions, never leave a campfire unattended, and call 9-1-1 immediately if you see smoke.

Visit the official source for wildfire information in Central Oregon at centraloregonfire.org for wildfire updates or follow fire information on X/Twitter @CentralORfire. Call 9-1-1 to report a wildfire. For smoke and air quality information visit fire.airnow.gov.”

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KTVZ

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Crook County Sheriff’s Office has issued an update on the case of missing person Gordon Grafton.

Authorities say 29-year-old Gordon Grafton III was reported missing on August 29, after he was last seen leaving his home in the Post, Oregon area the day before.

In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office shared, “It is with deep sadness that I inform you Gordon Grafton was found deceased. Gordon was located Saturday morning, September 6, 2025, in a rural part of Crook County.  Gordon’s family has been notified. Our thoughts are prayers are with the family as they deal with the loss of Gordon. No further information will be released.”

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. {KTVZ} — Happening Monday, the Natural History Pub presents – The Sagebrush in Prisons Project.  

Hosted by the High Desert Museum, the sagebrush plant is a keystone species that grows throughout the great basin.  

In fact, prison inmates have been taught how to grow this plant and have grown 3.7 million sagebrush at bureau of land management restoration sites.  

Join doctor Karen Hall, Director of the Ecological Education Program at the Institute for Applied Ecology, to learn how fostering a relationship between plants and humans, can result in the restoration of lands and people.  

This free presentation is open to the public. 

What: The Natural History Pub presents – The Sagebrush in Prisons Project 

When: Monday, September 8, 2025 

Where: McMenamins Old St. Francis School, 700 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703 

Time: 7:00PM to 8:00PM (doors open at 5:30PM)

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Brightside Animal Center invites the community out to see some puppies who are in need of a forever home. 

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office says they saved the puppies from a neglect case last month. They are now ready for adoption. 

Brightside Animal Shelter also announced they will be hosting a Brighter Futures Benefit Night on Friday, September 19th at Juniper Golf Course. Tickets are on sale now for $40. Buy tickets here.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Downtown Bend Library is hosting a Community Conversations event on September 10th.

According to Deschutes Public Library, Community Conversations brings neighbors together to connect, share experiences, and listen with open minds. Their goal is to foster deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and collaborative solutions to local civic challenges.

It will discuss the benefits of degrees, trades, and practical career paths. 

Registration is required and light supper is provided. 

The event runs 5:00pm-7:30pm.

Questions? Contact lizg@deschuteslibrary.org  

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Claire Elmer

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — In emergencies, every second counts. From the moment a 911 call comes in to when officers arrive on scene, first responders are in a race against time. But even the fastest chain of communication can leave gaps.

Now, Bend Police are using new technology designed to close those gaps and speed up response. It’s called Live911. The software acts as an add-on to the current dispatch system, live-streaming 911 calls directly to officers in the field.

Higher Ground is the software company that helped create Live911. Jake White, communications specialist for Live911, spoke with KTVZ about the software and its impact on law enforcement.

“It’s been created by officers, for officers. They thought, wouldn’t it be great if we could actually get to emergencies faster, have more information? In an emergency situation, truly, every second matters. And in this case, we’re shaving off minutes,” said White. 

Traditionally, a 911 call goes first to a dispatcher, who types notes about the incident into the system. Another dispatcher then relays that information over police radio. Only after the call is processed can the nearest available officer head to the scene.

But with Live911, Bend Police officers now listen in the moment a call comes through in their area. That means when someone calls for help, the nearest officer can hear the caller in real time and see the exact location on a map.

Lt. Tommy Russell with Bend Police spoke about the experiences they’ve had with Live911. 

“We’ve had a handful of examples where officers were literally right around the corner from a critical incident that they would have driven right past had it not been for the Live911 application running on their computer,” said Russell. 

Not only does this cut down on response time, it also gives officers more context. They can hear a caller’s tone of voice or catch important details that might otherwise slip through the cracks. The system automatically plays incoming calls within an officer’s “geofence” — a set radius around their patrol car, district, or even schools in the area.

Russell spoke of the emotional influence and motivation that comes with listening to the 911 calls in real time. 

“Hearing people pleading for help and crying for us to get there quickly can cause officers to get a little more excited going into that call. And certainly we get more personally invested when we hear that,” said Russell. 

Bend Police say Live911 isn’t just faster — it’s already saving lives. Captain Brian Beekman with Bend Police vividly remembers an instance where Live911 played a critical role. 

“There was a domestic dispute. The man involved had tried to commit suicide, and the officers responded there within minutes because of the Live911 call. They were able to provide him medical care and saved his life. It really showed us that you can save lives just with a software tool that can help first responders,” said Beekman.

And in other parts of the country, it’s had dramatic impacts. Mike Halliwell, vice president of sales for Higher Ground and Live911, told KTVZ about how the software prevented an attempted mass shooting in California.

“Oakland County Sheriff, they had a shooting at a splash park last year. A deputy heard the call come across Live911. He was on site within a minute to a minute and a half. That wouldn’t have been the case without Live911. Nobody was killed. By the deputy showing up that much quicker, he [the shooter] dropped his weapons and ran,” said Halliwell. 

Live911 is now being used in about 200 agencies across the U.S. — including Bend, Eugene, and Gresham here in Oregon.

Many in law enforcement who are using the technology have shared their strong support of implementing the addition of Live911 to their standard dispatch process with Higher Ground. 

“Almost any officer that I’ve ever spoken to that uses it says, ‘I can’t imagine ever going back. I can’t imagine not hearing the call now.’ And it also comforts the community, knowing right now, as I’m calling you, there is an officer on their way to you and they’re listening to everything you’re saying,” said White. 

Bend Police say the technology helps modernize law enforcement and ultimately gets help to people in our community more quickly, and keeps us safer. For them, the message is simple: in an emergency, every second matters. And with Live911, used in coordination with traditional, critical dispatch systems, they say those seconds are now on their side.

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