Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Crook County announced Monday it’s proud to celebrate the completion of its first participants in the County College program, an initiative designed to give residents an inside look at how county government operates.

Through a series of classes, participants heard directly from county department heads about the services they provide, how departments are funded, and the day-to-day work that keeps county government running.

“The County College program was a great experience and gave me a much deeper understanding of how county government actually works,” said Jessica Barnes, one of the program’s graduates. “I’m grateful to Commissioner Seth Crawford and everyone involved for creating such a transparent and informative program.”

Graduate Pam Dykstra said the program was also valuable for local business owners.

“County College helped me better understand how county offices operate and the people behind the scenes who keep them running, ” Dykstra said. “The information has been incredibly valuable in my work as a realtor and will help make our businesses stronger by knowing where to go for resources.”

Graduate Julie Johnson said the program gave participants a new appreciation for county employees and the work they do.

“It was a great opportunity to learn about the inner workings of county departments and the hard-working people behind them,” Johnson said. “I came away impressed by the scope of work the county handles.”

County officials say the program reflects Crook County’s commitment to transparency, public education, and strengthening connections with the community.

Future sessions of County College are expected to be announced later this year, offering additional residents the opportunity to learn more about their local government. Apply now if you are interested in the next county college sessions https://www.crookcountyor.gov/1661/Crook-CountyCollege.

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KTVZ – News Team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — BEAT Children’s Theatre is requesting handmade flower donations from the community for its upcoming production of “The Secret Garden” this May. The artwork will be used to decorate the stage at Open Space Event Studios and will later be featured in a silent auction to benefit the organization.

The play, adapted by Tim Kelly, uses the community-made flowers to represent growth and healing as the garden “blooms” on stage during each performance. The project is open to participants of all ages and skill levels to help create the visual landscape of the show.

Local artists and community members of all ages and experience levels are invited to contribute. The theater is accepting flowers made from any medium, including paper, fabric, ceramic, metal, crochet, painting, photography and illustration.

Each flower must follow specific size and weight guidelines to ensure they can be incorporated into the production. Submissions must be no more than two feet in diameter and weigh less than five pounds. Those wishing to contribute a piece heavier than five pounds are asked to contact theater officials in advance.

Visual guidelines for the project encourage the use of bright colors, though neon colors are not permitted. The theater also specified that no lights or electronic elements should be included in the handmade designs.

The flowers must be designed so they can be hung, mounted or placed directly on the stage. While the focus is on the flowers themselves, the theater will allow the minimal addition of leaves or greenery to the pieces.

The donated artwork will also serve a secondary purpose beyond stage decoration. Audience members will have the opportunity to bid on the flowers during a silent auction held throughout the run of the show. All proceeds from the auction will benefit BEAT Children’s Theatre.

The deadline for flower submissions is Friday, April 24. Donations can be dropped off at the BEAT Studio, located at 1080 SE Ninth Street, Suite 120, in Bend. Community members with questions or ideas that fall outside the provided guidelines can contact Executive Director Bree Beal.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding comments from local lawmaker, AAA)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Rising global tensions are continuing to drive up gas prices across the U.S., and Central Oregonians aren’t immune from feeling the impacts at the pump.

Recent conflict in the Middle East has disrupted key oil shipping routes, pushing up the global price of crude oil — the main ingredient in gasoline. Even though most of the U.S. oil supply comes from domestic sources and Canada, officials say Americans are still closely tied into the global market.

“There’s a lot of interdependence between India and Iran in their oil supply,” said State Representative Emerson Levy (D-Bend). “Our oil supply mostly is domestic, but we are still always tied to that per-barrel price. So whatever is happening in the world affects us at home, but it’s not necessarily our supply.”

Marie Dodds, director of government and public affairs for AAA Oregon and Idaho, expanded on the topic, noting any issue in a worldwide product supply can quickly translate to higher prices at local levels.

“Any time there’s a disruption in supplies in that global market, prices go up,” Dodds said. “Crude oil is that basic ingredient that goes into a gallon of gas or diesel. So when that cost of the main ingredient goes up, so do gas and oil prices when we go to our local gas station to fill up our tanks.”

The rising cost is being felt statewide, with limited options for immediate relief across both the country, and right here in Oregon.

“The majority of the cost that Oregonians are paying at the pump all goes back to the Iranian government cutting off ships being able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz,” Levy said. “It’s really difficult to pay higher costs when you’re already feeling the squeeze.”

With no clear end to the conflict, analysts warn drivers should prepare for more volatility in gas prices as ongoing instability could push prices even higher in the weeks ahead.

Earlier Story — BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Gas prices are still climbing quickly across the U.S., and right here in Oregon. Central Oregon drivers are not only feeling it in their wallets, but also talking more about politics at the pump.

According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of gas in Oregon has jumped more than 30 cents in the past week, pushing the statewide average to about $4.41 per gallon. That’s nearly 80 cents higher than just one month ago.

In Central Oregon, prices are slightly lower but still elevated, averaging around $4.38 per gallon among our tri-county area. At the Parkway Chevron in southern Bend, regular gas was priced at $4.29 per gallon on Monday.

GasBuddy analysts point to global tensions and tight oil supplies as key factors behind the recent spike. Analysts warn prices could continue climbing in the weeks ahead if those pressures persist.

In Central Oregon, many say the increase has been sudden and hard to ignore.

“Everybody talks about how much it’s gone up,” said Ron Starkey, a gas attendant at Parkway Chevron. “It’s been, I don’t know, two or three weeks since it went from $3 to over $4. So people have definitely noticed.”

He added that customers are increasingly concerned about how rising fuel costs affect everyday expenses.

“They know that higher gas prices means that that’s higher prices for everything else,” Starkey said. “So they’re not happy – I mean, they’re not happy.”

Starkey said those frustrations are often turning into political discussions.

“There’s a lot there’s a lot of people that voted for Trump thinking that he was going to do the right thing, and they feel very disillusioned from what I’ve heard,” he said. “It’s all the same stuff that they fed to us when Bush went to war with Iraq. I don’t see how that really makes anything better.”

Not everyone sees it the same way. One viewer told KTVZ News via social media the increase was expected and expressed support for the current administration, saying she is “glad to finally have a transparent leader.”

With prices expected to remain high in coming weeks, a few ways to cut costs include signing up for loyalty or reward programs, use credit cards with cash back on gas purchases, and fill up when you notice lower prices, if possible. 

Earlier Story — CNN is reporting, global oil prices are rising again amid escalating tensions with Iran, a shift that is beginning to show up at the pump in Oregon and across Central Oregon.

On Sunday, crude oil prices climbed to their highest level since July 20–22. Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose nearly 3% to just over $106 a barrel. U.S. oil also increased, gaining about 2.6% to reach $101 a barrel.

The price jump follows comments from President Donald Trump suggesting the war with Iran could continue for several more weeks. Iran has been blocking oil tankers from moving through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route that carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Over the weekend, Trump called on the international community to help reopen the strait.

The global uncertainty is already affecting drivers closer to home. According to AAA, gas prices across Oregon have been climbing, with the statewide average for regular gasoline sitting around $4.46 per gallon.

In Bend, drivers are paying slightly more, with regular unleaded averaging about $4.47 per gallon. Analysts say if oil prices continue rising and shipping disruptions persist, prices at the pump could increase further in the coming weeks.

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Barney Lerten

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Spring break is almost here, and despite fast-rising gas prices, thousands of travelers will be flocking to places where they can get some sun and have some fun. And that means Bend and Central Oregon remain the region’s top travel destination, AAA Oregon/Idaho reports.

AAA Travel booking data reveals top destinations and trends as spring breakers prepare to travel throughout March and April. AAA says beaches, warm weather destinations, theme parks and cruising are the most popular for spring break 2026. AAA also offers tips to keep the vacation worry-free.

“Travel is a very personal choice, and for many, it’s vital to their overall quality of life. By taking some precautions, everyone can feel more at ease throughout the journey,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

Theme parks in Southern California and Florida are perennial favorites for families during spring break. The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim and Knotts Berry Farm are popular in the Los Angeles area. Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary with special shows and new additions to attractions. And in Florida, The Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando are top destinations.

Cruising continues to set records this year. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will take cruise vacations in 2026. Many families book cruises over Spring Break to get the most out of the week, with Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas being the most popular.

Top international destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho include Paris, Rome, Tokyo, London and Barcelona. These cities appeal to families looking for history and entertainment.

Good news for travelers planning to drive abroad: you can now apply for International Driving Permits online! AAA is one of only two official organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. While you can still apply in person at a AAA branch, you now have the option to use your smartphone to take a digital photo and complete the application online. Many countries require IDPs to rent a car and drive legally.

Many will take a road trip this Spring Break. Oregonians will be visiting Central Oregon, the Oregon Coast, Portland, Seattle, Eugene, Southern Oregon, and Boise. La Verkin, Utah is popular for its proximity to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The busiest car rental destinations are Orlando, Los Angeles and Phoenix, according to AAA rental car partner Hertz.

AAA offers many other tips on how to save on fuel here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/

Costs to fly for Spring Break in the U.S. are up 2% this year, compared to 2025. AAA says the average price for a roundtrip domestic ticket is $815. International flights are slightly cheaper this year, with the average price for a roundtrip ticket at $1,300.

“Spring break is a perfect time to chase the sun and shake off the winter doldrums. Sandy beaches, inviting pools and sunny skies are among the most popular escapes this time of year. International cities are popular for culture, sightseeing and great restaurants, often with mild spring weather,” says Doreen Loofburrow, Senior Vice President of Travel at AAA Oregon/Idaho.

Gas prices on the rise for spring break:

This is the time of year that we typically see seasonal increases in gas prices – and this year, the conflict in Iran and the Middle East is causing gas prices to soar due to skyrocketing crude oil prices. Anytime crude oil prices spike, gas prices go up as well.

Other factors that cause prices to rise this time of year include refinery maintenance, the switch to summer-blend fuel, and an increase in demand for gas.

Gas prices are more expensive this year for spring break, compared to last year. Last year in mid-March, the national average for regular gas was $3.08 and the Oregon average was $3.72.

Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.

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Silas Moreau

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The High Desert Museum will begin its Spring break programming on Saturday, March 21st, featuring the return of live flight demonstrations and several new exhibitions. The museum will also transition to summer hours, staying open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

The seasonal schedule includes the Sky Hunters bird of prey program and interactive history at the museum’s ranch and sawmill. These activities are paired with daily wildlife talks and scientific exhibitions focused on regional geology and biology.

The Sky Hunters program will be hosted in the E.L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. The demonstration features raptors flying overhead to showcase their agility while educators share information about the birds’ lives in the wild. The program runs daily from March 21st through March 28th at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are available at admissions for $7, and museum members receive a 20% discount. Fly Redmond and the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon provide funding support for the program.

Daily talks regarding High Desert flora and fauna are included with museum admission. These scheduled events include a Nature Walk at 10:30 a.m., an Otter Encounter at 12:30 p.m. and a Mammal Encounter at 3:00 p.m.

The High Desert Museum is also featuring several temporary exhibitions, including “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration.” Located in the Spirit of the West Gallery, the exhibit combines history and geology with interactive storytelling. Visitors can view lava rocks, study a volcanic hazard map and hear simulated volcanic rumbles. The display highlights the scientific significance of volcanoes and the local impact of the Mount St. Helens eruption on May 18, 1980.

The Brooks Gallery houses “Soil Alive!,” a subterranean-themed exhibition presented in both English and Spanish. The family-friendly installation uses muffled underground sounds and interactive activities to show how microorganisms turn dirt into living soil. Features include a giant magnifying glass for viewing digital illustrations and a motion-activated experience where visitors help a ponderosa sapling grow.

Artist Hilary Baker is featured in the Desertarium Gallery with an exhibition titled “Prophets.” Baker, who grew up in Los Angeles, lost her longtime home to the Palisades Fire in January 2025. Following the fire, she began painting moths as spiritual messengers. The exhibit includes 18 of her artworks, which use bright renderings to encourage closer observation of the insects.

Another original exhibition, “Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place,” examines a century of western salesmanship. The collection features more than 50 maps, advertisements and artworks that explore the growth of cities along High Desert railways and the first Pendleton Round-Up in 1910. Additionally, the “Forest at Night” exhibition provides an immersive virtual tour of the forest after dark, highlighting the constellations and nocturnal animals.

The High Desert Ranch and Sawmill will offer historical demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. These areas will be open from Saturday, March 21st through Sunday, March 29th, though they will be closed on Monday, March 23rd. Visitors are invited to ask questions about the historical buildings or participate in ranch activities.

The Sky Hunters flight demonstrations will conclude on Saturday, March 28. The “Soil Alive!” exhibition is scheduled to close on Sunday, March 29.

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Claire Elmer

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Winter arrived on the calendar in Central Oregon, but the weather hasn’t looked much like it.

Temperatures have been running well above normal in recent months, and mountain snowpack has lagged behind typical levels. Because snowpack helps supply the region’s rivers and groundwater through the summer, water conservation is becoming increasingly important.

That’s part of the reason the City of Bend is encouraging residents to participate in “Fix a Leak Week,” a national campaign aimed at reducing household water waste.

The campaign runs March 16 through March 22 and asks residents to check their homes for common water leaks, including dripping faucets, worn seals, and irrigation system problems.

Even small leaks can add up. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average household can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water each year from leaks that go unfixed.

In Central Oregon, officials say that wasted water is especially significant because the region relies heavily on snowpack to replenish water supplies during the warmer months.

The city is encouraging Bend residents to take part in the challenge by inspecting their homes and fixing leaks where they find them. Those who participate in the accompanying challenges will be entered to win prizes.

The city also offers online resources to help residents identify and repair leaks, which can help lower water bills while conserving water during potentially dry seasons ahead.

For more information or to participate in the challenge, visit the City of Bend’s page dedicated to ‘Fix a Leak Weak’.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes County road officials are warning drivers to plan for delays and detours this week as multiple construction projects and seasonal closures continue across the region.​

La Pine and surrounding area

Crews are installing temporary pavement and widening the S Century Drive and Huntington Road intersection while also doing landscape work. The intersection is now controlled by an all-way stop with a temporary 25 mph speed limit, and drivers should expect single-lane closures, flaggers and delays of up to 20 minutes from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.​

City of Bend and surrounding area

Tumalo Reservoir Road is closed to through traffic between Sisemore Road and Tyler Road for excavation, grading, fence replacement and utility work. A signed detour is in place, local traffic can still access the area, and other sections of Tumalo Reservoir Road may see intermittent delays as construction vehicles enter and exit the roadway during weekday work hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Bear Creek Road remains closed between Dantili Way and the irrigation canal crossing to the east, with a full closure and signed detour expected to last through early April. China Hat Road and Forest Service Road 1815 are also closed at the U.S. Forest Service boundary for forest thinning, with access shut down to all traffic until further notice.​

City of Redmond

Work on the Redmond Wetlands Complex includes sewer utility construction on NW Pershall Way and in off-highway areas along Northwest Way and NW Coyner Avenue. Drivers on Pershall Way should be prepared for single-lane closures controlled by a temporary traffic signal, gravel surface sections and delays of up to 20 minutes during work hours.​

Terrebonne and U.S. 97

Work along U.S. 97 continues, with 11th Street closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic between A Avenue and the south intersection with the highway. Detour routes are signed, 11th Street south of C Avenue is open but unimproved and unpaved, and traffic heading for U.S. 97 north is directed to use NW 19th Street and NW Davidson Way, where the speed limit is temporarily set at 45 mph.​

Deschutes National Forest

High-elevation roads remain shut down for the season. Cascade Lakes Highway — from Crescent Cutoff Road to Forest Service Road 4270, and from Mt. Bachelor to Forest Service Road 4270 — and Paulina Lake Road east of Ten Mile Sno-Park will stay closed until county road crews can remove winter and early spring snow, typically by Memorial Day, weather permitting.

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Tracee Tuesday

KATY, Tx. (KTVZ) — A 13-year-old climber from Bend is now among the nation’s top adaptive athletes after earning a podium finish at a national competition in Texas.

Evangeline Crossman placed second at the 2026 USA Paraclimbing National Championships in Katy, competing against some of the top adaptive climbers in the country. The Bend teen delivered a standout performance throughout the event, finishing first in the preliminary round before placing second overall in the finals.

Crossman is an eighth-grade student who is homeschooled and also attends Cascade Middle School. She trains with the competitive team at Bend Endurance Academy.

Despite significant physical challenges — including dyslexia and 5/200 vision in one eye — Crossman has emerged as one of the country’s promising young paraclimbers.

“I’m incredibly grateful just to be able to compete with such amazing athletes,” Crossman said after the competition. “Every climber here inspires me. My dream is to keep improving and someday represent the United States in the Paralympic Games.”

William Lister, a Paralympian and executive director of Bend Endurance Academy, praised Crossman’s performance and dedication.

“Evangeline’s performance this weekend was extraordinary,” Lister said. “To lead the field in prelims and then finish second in the nation at just 13 years old shows the kind of dedication and resilience she brings to training every day.”

Lister said para-sports can open doors for athletes while building confidence and community, adding that Crossman represents the future of the sport.

The USA Paraclimbing National Championships bring together top adaptive climbers from across the United States and serve as a pathway toward international competition and potential Paralympic participation.

Crossman’s result places her among the country’s elite young adaptive climbers and highlights the growing presence of adaptive sports in Central Oregon.

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Tracee Tuesday

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — In the Klamath Tribes’ treaty territory, tribal councilors are working to protect a rare blue-green algae known as Mare’s eggs, or Nostoc pruniforme. The unusual, water balloon-like organisms draw curious tourists who sometimes pick them from the water, killing them and disrupting their fragile habitat.

Scientists consider Mare’s eggs nitrogen-fixing organisms that help promote clean water and play a unique role in the local ecosystem. The algae also have a short, slow growth season, making them especially vulnerable to disturbance and overhandling.

Klamath Tribes Chairman William Ray Jr., Councilwoman Willa Powless and Councilwoman Natalie Ball recently visited the river with U.S. Forest Service officials and tribal administration staff to see the problem firsthand. During the visit, Ray raised concerns about the number of permits issued to professional guide services along the Klamath River.

He advocated for reducing guide permits as one way to limit pressure on Mare’s eggs and other sensitive resources. Tribal staff also discussed additional steps to protect the habitat and envisioned a future in which the land is returned to the Klamath Tribes, allowing original stewards to once again take the lead in safeguarding this vital resource.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Old Mill District hosted the inaugural Second Saturday Paws and Pints event on Saturday, a new pet-focused gathering designed for the local community. The event featured dog-specific vendors, food trucks and activities ranging from live music to specialized spa care.

Modeled after the First Friday tradition, the recurring event was established through a multiyear planning process involving the Old Mill District and the co-founders from Greggs Grill and Hungry Hound. The gathering aims to celebrate Bend’s identity as a pet-friendly city while providing specialized services for four-legged friends.

The gathering featured dog runners, treat vendors and dog-specific food trucks. Bryan Du Toit, owner of Hungry Hound, helped organize the event, which he noted was years in the process.

“It’s really rewarding seeing everybody come together, everybody, the public bringing their dogs out, everybody having a great time here,” Toit said.

Nearly 10 different vendors participated in the event, including the Central Oregon Scent Work Club. Members demonstrated how dogs use their seeking skills during practice sessions. Robin Fallon, with the Central Oregon Scent Work Club, said the group was pleased to participate in the community gathering.

“We are delighted that we got invited and opportunity to share with all these people all the different opportunities that they can have and scent work,” Fallon said.

Organizers designed the event to allow owners to drop off their pets for activities like spa care or supervised runs. Toit said the goal is for people to be able to shop in the Old Mill District or get a pint at Greggs Grill while their dogs are being cared for. Aaron Pierce, who works with Bend Barks and Rec, said the event resonates with local residents.

“I think it’s really, really, really beneficial to this community to have this event that is being centered around our, our canine loved ones,” Pierce said.

Attendees brought dogs of all sizes and breeds to participate in the activities. James Johnson, the owner of a dog named Murphy, said his pet enjoyed the variety of offerings.

“It’s pretty fun. He’s having a lot of fun,” Johnson said. “He gets all the treats he can get. He’s a very happy dog. He just wants to see everybody.”

The event also provided opportunities for pet adoptions through Street Dog Hero. Peter Vandenburg, the director of development for Street Dog Hero, explained that several foster dogs were available for meet-and-greets. Vandenburg noted that some of the animals found permanent homes during the event.

“You can come down and meet dogs,” Vandenburg said. “And if you find one that you are just in love with, you can fill out an adoption application and start a trial on the spot.”

The Second Saturday Paws and Pints event is scheduled to return to the Old Mill District on the second Saturday of every month. Organizers hope to continue growing the event with each successive session.

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