Category: ktvz-local-news

Kelsey Merison

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Central Oregon Autism Movement (COAM) is preparing to host two community events in Redmond in the coming weeks. The Shine Together Community Night is scheduled for Saturday, April 18th and the Shine Together Autism Walk & Festival will follow on Saturday, May 2nd. Both events will be held at General Duffy’s Waterhole.

These upcoming events are designed to foster community connection and inclusion while raising funds for local autism programs, services, and family support.

The Shine Together Community Night, happening this weekend, will be a free and family-friendly evening. Attendees can enjoy music, games, prizes, and opportunities for connection. Families can also pick up event gear and wristbands to prepare for the main walk.

The Shine Together Autism Walk & Festival, set for Saturday, May 2nd, will feature a walk, live music, kids activities, sensory-friendly spaces, and community resources. The festival is COAM’s largest fundraiser of the year.

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Silas Moreau

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Happening Next, CASA of Central Oregon will host its annual Casablanca: A Masquerade Gala on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend.

This signature fundraising event raises critical funds to support advocacy for children in foster care in Central Oregon.The gala ensures that each child in foster care has a consistent, caring adult by their side, providing stability and hope.

All proceeds from the evening support the recruitment and training of Court Appointed Special Advocates, known as CASAs. These volunteers play a vital role in advocating for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Guests attending the gala will enjoy champagne, passed appetizers, a hosted bar and a plated dinner. The event will also feature robust live and silent auctions, a local restaurant gift card raffle, a wine wall and a dessert dash. Emily Kirk, an anchor with Central Oregon Daily News, will emcee the evening.

CASA Executive Director Heather Dion of Central Oregon, stated the importance of community support for the organization’s mission, “Casablanca is not only a celebration, but a powerful reminder of what our community can accomplish together,” Dion said. “With the support of partners like EC Electric and our incredible donors, we are able to continue showing up for children who need stability, advocacy and hope.”

Last year, 489 children spent time in foster care across Central Oregon. Currently, 77 of these children still need a dedicated CASA by their side to advocate for them. CASA of Central Oregon recruits, trains and supports these community volunteers to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and permanent home.

Community members can support the event in various ways, including by attending the gala, becoming a sponsor, or volunteering. Donations of experiences, services and unique items for the auction are also being accepted until May 1.

For more information about the event, to purchase tickets or to get involved, visit casaofcentraloregon.org/casablanca or call 541-389-1618.

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Triton Notary

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) The final phase of the Wilson Avenue Corridor Project is scheduled to begin construction on Monday, April 27, 2026. This phase will require a full closure of Wilson Avenue between Ninth Street and Centennial Street, with work estimated to be completed in July.

This stage of the project focuses on railroad improvements at the Wilson Avenue crossing. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway will replace track and signal equipment, while the City’s contractor will replace the adjacent sidewalk and roadway pavement. This modernization project aims to improve safety and east-west connectivity along Wilson Avenue.

The full closure of Wilson Avenue will impact all users, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. For safety reasons, the public should not enter the work zone or attempt to cross the railroad tracks while the road and sidewalk are closed, as railroad warning signals and crossing arms will not be reliably functional during this time.

The public is encouraged to plan ahead, follow posted detours and allow extra travel time in the area. The detour route for vehicles includes Ninth Street, Reed Market Road and Third Street. Pedestrians and bicycles will be detoured via Centennial Street, Reed Market Road and 15th Street.

Access to businesses will remain open throughout the construction period. Commuters should expect heavy equipment, noise and dust during this phase. The estimated completion date in July is subject to change.

The Wilson Avenue Corridor Project is a multi-phase initiative to modernize the corridor from Second Street to 15th Street. Previous phases included installing two new roundabouts at Ninth Street and 15th Street, improvements to the Third Street intersection and traffic signal, new roadway pavement and the addition of new sidewalks, crosswalks and bicycle facilities.

The City is working closely with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway to complete this railroad work as efficiently and safely as possible.

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Tyson Beauchemin

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Home gardeners should prepare to protect sensitive plants from possible upcoming cold weather. Dropping temperatures can damage vulnerable plants and fruit tree blossoms.

Normally, early spring would be a time for planting. But, Central Oregonians should hold off for now. Some plants might already have cold damage. Amy Jo Detweiler, a community horticulturist for the OSU Extension Service, pointed out plants that were struggling in these temaptures.

Detweiler further explained, “you have fruit trees, for example, that are the blossoms are starting to open up, you might want to protect those because if the blossoms get cold injury or damage to them, then you won’t get fruits set on that plant. And we’ve already seen a little bit of that happening with certain fruit trees that bloomed earlier this, this month.”

To protect plants, consider purchasing frost cloth or using plastic or fabric sheets. Alternatively, individual plants can be covered overnight with a pot or bucket.

Understanding a plant’s origin is also beneficial. Plants raised in the valley may not be acclimated to lower local temperatures. These plants should be brought inside to ensure their survival if conditions allow.

Gardeners should take immediate steps to protect vulnerable plants in anticipation of cold temperatures. Moving unadapted plants indoors or covering them with protective materials can prevent damage and safeguard future fruit yields.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend-La Pine School District board recently moved a resolution forward to address concerns about public education technology. The proposal specifically aims to change how iPads are distributed to students in kindergarten through second grade and how artificial intelligence is used in classrooms.

The goal of this initiative is to improve student-to-student interaction and reduce dependency on technology in learning.

Currently, the school district provides iPads to students in kindergarten through second grade. The board heard from parents and teachers for close to 10 minutes, expressing a desire for the board to approve a policy that would change how iPads are distributed to students, as well as regulate the use of AI.

A teacher at Bend-La Pine Schools shared her perspective on the absence of iPads in her classroom. “There’s a buzzing as my students talk read move about the room. (…) And yet I feel pride because in absence of their Ipads my students have learned to be learners,” the teacher said.

A parent of a student at Bend-La Pine Schools expressed concerns about their child’s technology use. The parent noted their child’s understanding of the world.

“And then I get to school and I see him go to a room and he joins the rest of his classroom of sitting down in front of an ipad,” the parent stated.

Reporter Spencer Sacks observed that no one expressed opposition to removing iPads from classrooms, especially for students in kindergarten through second grade. When the board discussed the proposal, members spoke about the need to gather more information to inform their decision. One specific piece of information the board seeks is data on websites currently used by students.

Director Amy Tatom indicated that YouTube was the most visited website in Bend-La Pine schools. This resolution is part of a broader year-long change within the district regarding technology use. Earlier this school year, the board approved a ban on cell phones inside schools.

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Tracee Tuesday

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — The seasonal window for legal debris burning in the Sisters area will close at sunset on April 30, according to local fire officials.

The Northwest Fire Agencies — which include Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District, Black Butte Ranch Fire District, and Cloverdale Fire District — announced the seasonal shutdown Tuesday, marking the annual shift into fire season beginning May 1.

Outdoor debris burning is already prohibited year-round within the city limits of Sisters, but this closure extends to rural areas around town that fall under local fire district jurisdiction. Crews say the change is a precaution as temperatures rise and conditions dry out across Central Oregon.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to double-check burning regulations with their local fire district before lighting any fire. Additional restrictions on campfires may also be implemented later in the summer if fire danger increases.

For more information, contact:

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District: 541-549-0771 or www.sistersfire.com

Black Butte Ranch Fire District: 541-595-2288 or www.bbrfire-or.gov

Cloverdale Fire District: 541-389-2345 or www.cloverdalefire.com

Local agencies are also urging homeowners to clear flammable vegetation and create defensible space around their homes ahead of fire season. Guidance on wildfire preparedness and defensible space is available through the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s website at oregon.gov/osfm/wildfire/pages/defensiblespace.aspx.

Fire officials remind Central Oregon residents that rules can vary by district and jurisdiction. Anyone planning outdoor burning should confirm requirements with their local fire agency before proceeding.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Psychiatric Security Review Board recently denied most requests from Joanna Kasner, convicted in the 2019 shooting death of Valerie Peterson, to ease her state supervision. Kasner had sought greater independence seven years after the murder, but Peterson’s family is fighting to keep current restrictions in place.

The Board’s decision comes as Peterson’s family relives a painful chapter during the latest hearing.

In 2019, Kasner murdered her neighbor, Valerie Peterson, near Grande Loop and McGrath in the Boonsboro area north of Bend. Kasner, who is currently on conditional release at a secure residential treatment facility, asked the Board to scale back her care.

During a recent hearing, Harris Matarazzo, Kasner’s attorney, questioned her about her mental health. Joanna Kasner stated that she has ‘HISTORICAL DELUSIONAL DISORDER AND COMPLEX PTSD’. She also affirmed her engagement in treatment for these conditions, noting, ‘FOR THE LAST SEVEN YEARS, HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF HOURS, SUPPORT GROUPS, THERAPY OF ALL SORTS.’

Kasner’s requests to the Psychiatric Security Review Board included a step up to independent living, permission to drive a vehicle, entry into Multnomah County for treatment with GPS monitoring and authorization to travel outside of the state.

Elisabeth A. Waner, the state’s attorney, representing Valerie Peterson’s family, argued these requests were premature and advocated for Kasner to remain under the Board’s jurisdiction.

The Board subsequently denied all of Kasner’s requests except for out-of-state travel. For approved out-of-state travel, Kasner must provide seven days notice and will be monitored by GPS. She will not be accompanied by medical or law enforcement personnel, meaning she will be allowed to travel on her own.

During the hearing, confusion arose when the state questioned Doctor Ruiz, a medical expert testifying at the hearing, about a motion Kasner had filed to set aside her convictions. Dr. Ruiz responded, ‘YEAH, I DID NOT KNOW THAT THIS WAS HAPPENING. I DON’T KNOW THE THINKING BEHIND IT. I DID NOT TALK WITH HER ABOUT THIS.’

Peterson’s sister, Melissa McPherson, recounted that Valerie Peterson was conversing with Kasner while on the phone with her family just minutes before Kasner murdered her. Peterson’s agreement to talk with Kasner resulted in six bullets to her mid torso, costing Peterson her life.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding comments from ODOT, video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Just as Central Oregon starts to see signs of spring, another round of snow is expected to hit the Cascades this week.

With mountain travel likely to be affected, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) crews are gearing up for changing conditions and reminding drivers to stay alert.

Late-season storms can bring unique challenges. Warmer daytime temperatures can lead to melting snow, but when temperatures drop overnight, that moisture can refreeze, creating slick and slushy roads. High wind gusts may also add another layer of difficulty for those traveling the mountain passes.

Mindy McCartt, public information officer for ODOT, said crews are ready to respond quickly when the first flakes start to fall.

“Our crews are used to this kind of fluctuation. They’re used to it, and they pivot. They’re going to get behind those deicing trucks, in those plow trucks, and run a 24/7 shift, and get those roads clear,” she said. 

The warm, dry winter across Oregon kept slippery roads out of sight and out of mind for many. Officials said that’s a concern for this particular storm. 

“The challenge is getting drivers thinking about icy conditions. We really want people to pay attention to those temperatures, especially those early morning and late, evening hours, and be prepared,” McCartt said.

Anyone traveling over Santiam Pass, Mt. Hood, or other Cascade Mountain routes this week should be prepared for snow and ice. As the statewide deadline to remove studded tires has already passed, you’re urged to carry chains.

ODOT recommends you allow extra time and check TripCheck for the latest road closures, chain requirements, and camera updates.

Officials also advise postponing nonessential travel during the height of the storm. Waiting a few hours could make a big difference once crews have had time to clear and treat the highways.

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Silas Moreau

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Members of Team Tempest from Bend’s Odyssey Martial Arts spent Sunday (4/12) volunteering at Think Wild Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Center from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Team Tempest are working towards their black belt in Tong Soo Do karate. Part of their journey towards a black belt involves a community service project.

The various projects the team worked on included picnic table construction, installation of pavers for a small mammal enclosure, replacing handicap parking, as well as moving gravel & rocks.

“We would love for the city of Bend and beyond to know what an amazing place Odyssey Martial Arts is and how important it is for the kids to take part in this fulfilling community project,” said Julie Furnas, the mother of a black belt candidate on Team Tempest.

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Matthew Draxton

(Update: adding comments from superintendent Dr. Hoff)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — After months of discussion and community engagement, the Crook County School District has officially named Dr. Joel Hoff its permanent superintendent.

Hoff has served as interim superintendent for the past year. Surveys and listening sessions showed overwhelming support for his leadership, with nearly 97% of respondents backing his permanent appointment. Many pointed to noticeable improvements across the district.

“When I hear those positive numbers, I know it’s not just me…that’s more of a reflection of our staff,” Hoff said. “Our bus drivers, our teachers are making that awesome experience for our students everyday. It’s more of a reflection of our community’s belief in our staff, not just anything I’m doing individually.”

Hoff stepped into the interim role at a time he said the district needed to refocus on its priorities.

“Our district was focused on everything but our students,” he said. “So my biggest task was to just recenter the district. Our saying is ‘students first’. Every decision we make, everything we do, students are at the center and figuring out what’s best for students in every situation.”

A longtime Prineville resident, and former teacher and administrator within the district, Hoff said his local connection has shaped his leadership.

Now, with a contract in place, district goals will shift from short-term stability to long-term success.

“We’re just looking at more long-term plans of how can we set up this district so that we’re looking forward and not just looking in that temporary way,” Hoff said.

That includes expanding pathways for students — whether that’s college, the trades, or the military — and continuing what district officials call progress in the right direction.

“We look at every individual student and we come up with a plan that fits, that’s kind of tailored to their needs,” Hoff said. “It’s looking at every single kid and what they need to be successful here.”

Hoff said his focus now is keeping students at the center while strengthening support for staff and families.

Earlier Story — BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Crook County School District Board of Directors approved a three-year contract on Monday, April 13, officially appointing Dr. Joel Hoff as the district’s permanent superintendent. This decision follows a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process that showed strong community support for Dr. Hoff.

The stakeholder engagement process included a survey and listening sessions with families, staff and community members. A significant 97% of respondents indicated they were in favor of Dr. Hoff serving as superintendent, signaling a clear consensus for stability and continued positive momentum within the district.

Survey participants highlighted several of Dr. Hoff’s key strengths, including his deep commitment to Crook County schools and community, student-centered and data-informed decision making, his ability to build trusting relationships, effective communication skills, and an approachable leadership style.

A consistent theme throughout the listening sessions indicated that stakeholders feel the district is experiencing positive momentum and expressed a strong desire to see that progress continue under Dr. Hoff’s leadership. The board’s decision reflects a shared commitment to sustaining this momentum while advancing educational excellence.

Scott Cooper, board vice chair for the Crook County School District Board of Directors, noted the improved atmosphere in the district. “The climate in the District is much improved and significantly calmer than it was just a year ago,” Cooper said. “The positives continue to mount. That is largely attributable to Dr. Hoff’s leadership. The board actively went out to the community and asked about retaining Dr. Hoff versus running an open search. The consensus was clear that what the District really needs right now is stability and the board heeded that advice by keeping a high performer in his seat. We look forward to more good things.”

Dr. Hoff previously served one year as interim superintendent. Before that role, he spent five years as assistant superintendent, gaining extensive experience and becoming well versed in all aspects of district leadership.

During his time as interim superintendent, Dr. Hoff worked to establish a clear set of vision and values for the district, strengthen instructional leadership and implement systems designed to improve student outcomes.

Dr. Hoff shared his commitment to the district’s future. “I look forward to keeping our district’s focus where it belongs—on our students—while continuing to support our incredible staff and strengthening the systems that help every learner succeed,” Hoff said. “I’m also committed to deepening our partnerships with families and the Crook County community to continue building an exceptional school system together.”

As superintendent, Dr. Hoff will continue working alongside staff, families and community partners to strengthen instructional systems, support educators and ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow and graduate prepared for their future.

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