Category: ktvz-local-news

Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — On Thursday at the Deschutes County Courthouse, Bend resident Garry Dean Mode made an appearance in front of Deschutes County Circuit Judge Michelle McIver.

Mode, 62, is the man accused of a violent confrontation with an acquaintance at his home in southeast Bend earlier this month.

The brief court hearing ended with the judge and attorneys agreeing to delay Mode’s arraignment, as the grand jury is set to hear the case next week and consider an indictment on formal charges.

Mode’s hearing date as reset to November 13th.

KTVZ News will keep you updated on this developing story.

Earlier story — October 15th — BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — 62-year-old Garry Dean Mode, a Bend resident, was arrested following a dispute in his home Tuesday evening, according to the Bend Police Department.

According to police, BPD responded to Mode’s home in the 61000 block of Parrell Road in Southeast Bend at 7:28 p.m. Tuesday evening following a 911 call Mode made, stating he had just been involved in an altercation with an acquaintance he had invited to his home. Mode explained that he had used multiple weapons during the dispute.

When police arrived, “They found the victim, a 45-year-old Bend resident, with serious injuries in the driveway. The victim was transported to St. Charles Bend.”

“Mode was still on scene at the home when officers arrived, and was taken into custody. He was transported to the Bend Police Department and then lodged at the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of the above offenses,” Sheila Miller, the communications manager for Bend Police said in a press release.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A passionate group of animal advocates, local leaders, and residents gathered at Silvermoon Brewing Tuesday evening for a special event: The State of Animal Welfare in Central Oregon. 

The event, hosted by the Companion Animal Medical Project (CAMP), aimed to address the growing challenges facing pets and their owners across the region — from overcrowded shelters to rising reports of neglect and abuse. 

“This isn’t about politics,” said Johannah Johnson-Weinberg, founder and president of CAMP. “It’s about a deeply held belief in equity. It’s about mobilizing as a community to build sustainable and equitable solutions.” 

A Growing Problem Across the Region 

Central Oregon has seen an uptick in animal abuse and neglect cases in recent months. Authorities reported several high-profile investigations: 

In Lapine, a man was caught on camera allegedly abusing his dog with a shovel. Three dogs were removed from his property, and he now faces multiple charges of animal abuse. 

In Terrebonne, officials seized 18 dogs and 17 cats from a woman’s home, leading to animal neglect charges. 

In Alfalfa, deputies discovered dozens of poodles and puppies living in unhealthy conditions at a breeding operation known as Kameo Poodles. The woman behind it was charged with 49 felony counts of second-degree animal neglect. 

Each of these cases places additional stress on local shelters, many already at capacity. When adoption rates cannot keep up, shelter operators face heartbreaking decisions. 

Causes Behind Overpopulation 

Gina Clemmer, director and founder of First Nations Veterinary, said the region faces a serious overpopulation crisis — one tied in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“A recent study found a 3.7 million gap in spay and neuter procedures linked to the pandemic,” Clemmer explained. “When high-volume clinics shut down temporarily, it created a ripple effect that we’re still dealing with today.” 

Clemmer also noted that rising veterinary costs make it harder for many families to seek preventive care for their pets, worsening the problem. 

Searching for Solutions 

According to Clemmer, reducing overpopulation will require a multipronged approach: 

Mandatory microchipping for identification 

Stronger laws and fines for overbreeding and neglect 

Expanded access to affordable spay and neuter programs 

For those struggling with veterinary costs, several local organizations — including First Nations Veterinary, the Humane Society of Central Oregon, and BrightSide Animal Center — offer assistance programs and educational resources. 

How to Get Involved 

CAMP continues to lead community efforts promoting animal health, education, and welfare across the region. To learn more, volunteer, or get help caring for your own pet, visit CAMP’s website.

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Triton Notary

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– Oregon State University Cascades has unveiled its newest addition to campus the “Little Kits Early Care” child care center, designed to support the families of students, staff, and community members seeking reliable child care.

The 7,200-square-foot facility was funded through federal and state programs and will serve between 50 and 70 children ranging in age from six weeks to three years old.

Sherman Bloomer, Dean of OSU-Cascades, said the center addresses one of Central Oregon’s ongoing challenges. “Like many families in Central Oregon, child care is a struggle” Bloomer said. “There are more slots than there were three years ago from the efforts of a lot of organizations and people but it is still difficult to find and it’s difficult to find affordable care for a lot of families.”

The new center is part of OSU-Cascades’ continued efforts to expand access and resources for families connected to the university and the broader Bend community.

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Spencer Sacks

(Update: Added full story and quote from Councilor Cat Zwicker)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Redmond City Council met on Tuesday night. 

The meeting had a spirited and lively discussion surrounding the future of the homeless camp in East Redmond.

Before now, there was an agreement between the City of Redmond and Deschutes County on a 50/50 split.

Now though, the City and County got an updated number which shows each has an increase of more than a hundred thousand dollars

This created a disagreement between Council Members on what they should do.

Some like Councilor Jay Patrick felt they should wait to meet with the County to make a decision.

Ultimately the council voted four to two to table the conversation until its next joint meeting with the County.

Councilor Cat Zwicker was frustrated by the Council’s decision.

Councilor Zwicker told KTVZ News “We’re moving into winter. Winter is when we need to have our availability for people that are unhoused, to be someplace safe and secure, to have access to services, whether it’s electricity for heat or water, just human dignity, living out on the bush and living in the streets doesn’t provide that. I’m disappointed, obviously, because we’ve worked on this for over 18 months with the county as a partnership”

This will impact several homeless residents as by Oregon law a city must have a suitable replacement before they remove someone.

We will continue to update you as the story develops.

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KTVZ

WARM SPRINGS, Ore., (KTVZ) — The Museum at Warm Springs will host the opening of the “32nd Annual Warm Springs Tribal Member and Youth Exhibit” on Wednesday, November 12.

Museum Members and the general public are invited to a reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Museum (2189 Highway 26, Warm Springs). The exhibit will be on view through Saturday, March 7, 2026. 

This popular annual exhibit displays the immense talent and artistic excellence of Warm Springs adult and youth Tribal members. The exhibit is curated by Warm Springs Museum Curator and Exhibit Coordinator Angela Anne Smith (Warm Springs, Yakama, Nez Perce and Diné). Selected artworks will be available for sale with a 20% commission going toward The Museum. 

Museum Closures for Remainder of 2025 

Wednesday, Nov. 11 — Veterans Day 

Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28 — Thanksgiving 

Thursday, Dec. 25 — Christmas Day 

Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026 — New Year’s Day

Become a Museum Member 

There are several levels of annual Museum Membership, which begin at $25 for elders and students. All Members receive these benefits: free admission for one year, 10% discount in the Museum Gift Shop and special invitations to exhibits and programs. Members have access to the 2024 Oregon Historical Society Reciprocal Membership Program and free admission to a different Oregon museum each month. Join by visiting https://museumatwarmsprings.org/ and click “Join” to see Membership levels and online payment information. Or send a check to: The Museum at Warm Springs, P.O. Box 909, Warm Springs, OR 97761 (Attn: Membership). 

About The Museum at Warm Springs 

The Museum at Warm Springs opened its doors to the public on March 14, 1993 and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023. Built to Smithsonian Institution professional standards, The Museum’s mission is to preserve, advance and share the traditions, cultural and artistic heritage of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Oregon. Regular Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission: Museum Members (free), Adults ($7), Senior Citizens over 60 ($6), Students 13-18 with student body card ($4.50), Children 5-12 ($3.50) and Children 4 and younger (free). The Museum is located at 2189 Highway 26 in Warm Springs. Phone: (541) 553-3331. For more information, visit https://www.museumatwarmsprings.org/. 

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KTVZ

Update: Adding video

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Ranae Staley has made the decision to step down from her role as The Giving Plate‘s executive director, effective September 15th.

“We are sincerely grateful for her dedication and the many accomplishments achieved during her tenure,” a message from Board President Tara Penn said Tuesday.

“Under her guidance, The Giving Plate has seen a season of profound growth and change, leaving a strong legacy that will continue to shape our future,” Penn said in the statement, which continues in full below.

“As we begin the search for our next Executive Director, we are pleased to announce that Donna Mills will serve as Interim Executive Director, effective October 14, 2025.

“Donna brings a wealth of experience to this role. With over 30 years in the nonprofit industry, she has recently held leadership positions at Central Oregon Health Council and The Humane Society of Central Oregon, where she successfully led both organizations as Executive Director and Interim Executive Director.

“Her deep understanding of The Giving Plate’s mission and values, combined with a proven track record of strategic leadership, makes her exceptionally well-suited to guide us through this transition.

“We thank Ranae for her dedicated service and wish her continued success in the future. Please join us in welcoming Donna into this important role,” Penn concluded.

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KTVZ

(Update: Adding video)

EUGENE, Ore. (KTVZ) – Weekend snowfall over the Cascades has prompted the Oregon Department of Transportation to close the gates on the west side of McKenzie Pass, Oregon Highway 242.

Crews closed the gates Tuesday morning near the junction with Oregon Highway 126 and at the summit by Dee Wright Observatory.

Gates on the east side are expected to remain open a bit longer, with Nov. 6 as the latest possible closing date, ODOT said.

Weather conditions can vary on each side of the pass, and it’s not uncommon for one side to close before the other, ODOT said in a news release Tuesday that continues in full below:

McKenzie Pass is a secondary, scenic highway. Weather, costs and logistics make it impractical to maintain for travel year-round. In the winter, we focus our staff and resources on main highways to keep them plowed, open and safe. 

When the highway is closed, it is not maintained. Travelers who go past locked gates and closure signs could encounter hazards and equipment on the road. There are no services or cell coverage available.

Every year, McKenzie Pass opens and closes with the seasons. Dates vary depending on road and weather conditions. 

McKenzie Pass became a seasonal scenic highway in 1962 with the completion of the Clear Lake-Belknap Springs section of Oregon 126.

Even during its time as the main route between the Willamette Valley and Central Oregon, the narrow, twisting roadway and high elevation (5,325 feet) made the highway too difficult to maintain and keep clear during the winter months.

To see what routes are open over the mountains, and to view current road and weather conditions visit TripCheck.com or call 511.

More information on McKenzie Pass, OR 242, can be found on ODOT’s website. 

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KTVZ

Update: Adding video

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes County staff warned community members Tuesday of a recent email “phishing” scam and advised everyone to be wary of suspicious emails designed to steal their personal information.

“The Community Development Department recently discovered that cybercriminals sent a fake email from a CDD staff member, demanding payment and deceiving recipients into revealing sensitive data,” the county said in a news release that continues in full below:

If you receive an email demanding an urgent payment, requesting bank account, Social Security numbers or other personal information, or containing suspicious links and attachments, it may be a scam. Always take protective measures:   

Verify the source – Check email addresses carefully and look closely at the branding. If it looks unusual, contact the sender to confirm. 

Think about the message – Does it stress urgency or ask for sensitive information? Legitimate county sources will not request sensitive information via email.

Don’t open unexpected attachments – Avoid opening or downloading attachments unless you are sure of the source.

Do not click links – Avoid clicking on any links unless you are sure of the source.

Deschutes County urges community members to remain diligent and watch for scams. For more tips on how to avoid phishing scams mvisit: www.cisa.gov/recognize-and-report phishing.

If you believe you are the victim of a cybersecurity scam, please call Deschutes County 9-1-1 non-emergency dispatch at (541) 693-6911 or visit www.deschutes.org/911 to report a crime online.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes National Forest announced Tuesday that firefighters plan to start pile burning season as early as this Wednesday, if conditions are favorable.

Here are the details the Forest Service released Tuesday:

The Deschutes National Forest may accomplish up to an estimated 15,000 acres of pile burning throughout the fall and winter season, including up to an estimated 11,000 acres on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, 4,000 acres on the Crescent Ranger District, and 20 acres on the Sisters Ranger District. 

Pile-burning operations are planned for multiple locations across the forest, with some of the primary locations below: 

Bend – approximately 5 miles west of Bend near the junction of Forest Service Road (FSR) 4601 and 4602 near Triangle Hill and north of Wanoga Butte near FSR 4613 and east of Edison Butte near FSR 4188

Sisters – approximately 2 miles south of Sisters located off of the FSR 1505  

Crescent – approximately 10 miles southwest of Crescent along Hwy 58 and Hwy 97 and 10 miles northwest of Crescent within a quarter mile of Wickiup Estates 

Firefighters implement pile burning to reduce vegetation generated from active forest management such as timber sales and pre-commercial thinning treatments. The piles are concentrations of leftover materials associated with vegetation management activities being done to help maintain and restore forest and ecosystem health while reducing hazardous fuels loading.

Piles may smolder, burn, and produce smoke for several days after ignition. Once ignited, firefighters monitor piles until they declare the piles out. Please do not report ignitions. While smoke may linger in the area, removing these large accumulations of woody debris during the winter months minimizes fire danger. 

Due to elevation differences, units will be burned when conditions are appropriate to meet objectives.

Pile-burning operations are carefully planned and implemented under specific conditions. Firefighters work with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Department of Forestry smoke forecasters to identify conditions that will minimize smoke impacts on people and communities.

While prescribed burn officials take significant preventive measures, it’s likely that communities may experience some smoke during or immediately after ignitions. Most smoke impacts occur during the night and early morning hours.

For more information on pile burning and smoke preparedness in Central Oregon, visit centraloregonfire.org/ and for information specific to the Deschutes National Forest visit fs.usda.gov/deschutes. Text “COFIRE” to 888-777 to receive prescribed burn text alerts. Follow along on X @CentralORFire.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Happening tonight, Friday, October 10th, a new country bar in downtown Bend is having a grand opening party!

The Coyote has had the town talking for some time, taking over what was once Unofficial Logging Co.

For $5, you can enjoy live music, dancing, drinks, and fun–and there’s a mechanical bull!

The night kicks off at 6 p.m. with live music from 7-10, followed by a DJ from 10 to 1 a.m.

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