Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend Education Association and its members have awarded $10,000 in scholarships to 14 graduating students of Bend-La Pine Schools to support their post-secondary education and training. 

Each year, BEA awards scholarships to students who demonstrate educational goals beyond high school and meaningful engagement in extracurricular and community activities. This year’s recipients are diverse in their interests and ambitions, but share a deep commitment to service, leadership, and self-growth. 

“It’s an honor to support these incredible students as they take the next step toward their futures,” said BEA President Sarah Barclay. “Their stories reflect the strength, drive, and creativity that thrive in our public schools. These young leaders are ready to make a difference – and we’re proud to stand behind them.” 

The Bend Education Association represents over 1,000 educators, specialists, and licensed professionals in the Bend-La Pine School District. BEA is a local affiliate of the Oregon Education Association and the National Education Association, committed to advocating for public education and supporting the success of all Oregon students. 

BEA awarded scholarships to the following students graduating in June 2025: 

Zachary Miller – Bend Tech Academy Zach will attend George Fox University, where he will study music production and compete in pole vault. “I’ve worked hard to overcome learning challenges, serve my school and church communities, and pursue my passions in music and athletics. I’m excited for what’s next.” 

Emma Longbotham – Bend Senior High School Emma plans to pursue a career in medicine after earning a degree in biology. She writes, “I love to help people and improve lives – and I want to keep giving back to the community that supported me. This scholarship helps me take those first steps.”  Kaiya Thompson – Summit High School Kaiya plans to pursue civil engineering at the University of Utah. After living in southern Brazil and returning to Bend, she learned the power of intentional community and persistence. She says, “I choose to reflect my parents’ flexibility and work ethic, my peers’ intelligence, and my soccer club’s dedication and drive. I am a collection of the best things around me and more.”  Atlin Wognild – Mountain View High School Atlin will attend Montana State University to study elementary education and liberal studies. A cross-country and Nordic ski team captain and camp counselor, Atlin says, “I want to be an educator who builds a classroom rooted in joy, creativity, and the outdoors.”  Ayden Colley – Caldera High School Ayden will attend the University of Oregon to study biology and pursue a career in medicine. He says, “Curiosity is what drives me – about people, science, and possibility. From DECA leadership to biotech courses, I’m preparing to serve others through a future in health care.” 

Jack Neff – Caldera High School Jack will study Outdoor Products at OSU-Cascades, with the goal of improving adaptive sports equipment. Living with cerebral palsy, he says, “Advocating for accessibility has been one of my proudest contributions. I want to keep opening doors – for myself and for others.” 

Dylan Morgan – Summit High School Dylan plans to study physics and math, with a long-term goal of researching nuclear fusion. He writes, “Math is a language we learn by observing, changing, experimenting, and failing… With my degree, I hope to be part of a research team that revolutionizes the production of energy.”  Garren White – Mountain View High School Garren plans to attend COCC’s Fire Science program. A multi-sport athlete and volunteer, he shares, “I’ve built my work ethic through setbacks, recovery, and showing up—even when it’s hard. I’m determined to serve my community and give back with everything I’ve got.”  Luke Bishop – Caldera High School Luke plans to attend Central Oregon Community College for two years before moving on to a four-year university.  He is planning to pursue a degree in education and writes, “My ultimate goal is to become an elementary school teacher, following in the footsteps of my parents. I want to create a classroom where students feel supported and inspired.” 

Ellie Colquhoun – Caldera High School Ellie plans to study physical therapy and run collegiately. A musician, youth group leader, and volunteer, she says, “I love helping people and seeing them become their best selves. I want to combine my passion for science and sport to make a difference.” 

Allison Holdredge – Summit High School Allison plans to pursue an engineering degree at Washington State University. A passionate musician and textile artist, she says, “I can’t imagine my life without school. There’s something amazing about being able to learn new things. I love school, and this scholarship will help make college possible.” 

Lauren Chaiet – Mountain View High School Lauren plans to major in Music Education and become a middle or high school band director. She writes, “I’ve worked hard to earn good grades, build relationships, and perform music and dance. I look forward to giving students the same safe and joyful space that music gave me.” 

Miles Macomber – Caldera High School Miles plans to attend Gonzaga University to pursue a business degree with a focus on outdoor entrepreneurship. “Whether it’s on the basketball court, at work, or out in nature – I strive to uplift others and create positive experiences. Business is a way I can turn that into a career.” 

Teague Myers – Caldera High School Teague will attend Willamette University to study international studies and music, with plans to pursue law. A dedicated athlete and musician, he says, “I represent the opportunities Bend-La Pine offers – whether in sports, music, or academics – and I’m ready to take the next step.” 

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Redmond School District announced Wednesday that Doug Taylor has been selected as the next principal of Elton Gregory Middle School, beginning with the 2025-26 school year. Taylor is currently the principal at Vern Patrick Elementary. 

Taylor, who grew up in Redmond, brings 16 years of experience in education to his new role. He began his career as a middle school language arts and social studies teacher and spent three years teaching at Elton Gregory before stepping into the Dean of Students role at the same school. He later served as Dean of Students and Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at Redmond High School before transitioning to Vern Patrick Elementary as principal. 

Throughout his career, Taylor has developed a wide-ranging skill set that includes teacher evaluation, curriculum oversight, RTI (Response to Intervention), student management systems, and support for extracurricular programs. 

“Doug brings a rare combination of experience across grade levels, a strong background in instruction and leadership, and a deep commitment to the Redmond community,” said Superintendent Dr. Charan Cline. “His deep commitment to athletics and activities will help create opportunities for all students. He’s a great fit for Elton Gregory, and I’m confident he will help lead the school with purpose and care.” 

“I am honored to be selected to serve as Elton Gregory’s next principal. I am deeply committed to the Redmond community and continuing to serve its students and families. Elton Gregory has an incredible team that I am looking forward to working with in order to provide a top-notch and well-rounded education for its students.” 

The Redmond School District greatly appreciates the leadership and commitment Taylor has brought to Vern Patrick Elementary and wishes him continued success in this next chapter. 

Meanwhile, the district also announced that Corrie Hopper has been appointed as the interim principal at Vern Patrick Elementary School for the 2025-26 school year. Hopper currently serves as the assistant principal at Obsidian Middle School. 

Hopper is no stranger to the Redmond School District, having first joined the district in 2006 as a long-term kindergarten substitute teacher at Vern Patrick Elementary. She went on to serve as a physical education teacher at John Tuck Elementary before spending 11 years at Tumalo Community School, where she taught PE and Health/Outdoor Education. 

Since 2020, Hopper has served as assistant principal at Obsidian Middle School, where she has overseen student behavior interventions, designed academic support systems, and provided counseling services and family referrals. 

“Corrie brings a strong instructional background and deep community roots to Vern Patrick,” said Superintendent Dr. Charan Cline. “Her experience supporting students, collaborating with staff, and building positive relationships with families makes her an excellent fit to lead Vern Patrick.” 

In addition to her professional experience, Hopper is also a Redmond parent with three children who currently attend or have attended schools in the district. 

“Education is truly a part of who I am, it runs in my family, and I feel as though I grew up in classrooms. I have a heart for service and a genuine love for working with children and their families. I am so grateful for the experiences I’ve had over the 18 years I have worked in the Redmond School District and am eager to begin this new role, working together to create a positive, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for every student,” Hopper said.  

The Redmond School District welcomes Corrie Hopper into her new leadership role at Vern Patrick Elementary and looks forward to a successful school year ahead. 

Corrie Hopper is replacing former principal of Vern Patrick, Doug Taylor, who has accepted the position of principal at Elton Gregory Middle School starting in the 2025-26 school year. 

Click here to follow the original article.

Claire Elmer

(Update: adding video, comments by insurance agent, homeowner)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — From staggering rate increases to notices of cancellation, a large number of homeowners in Central Oregon are being greatly affected when it comes to their home insurance. 

Residents of La Pine have taken a particularly hard hit. Many are being faced with reduced coverage, astronomical price increases, or not being able to obtain a policy at all. 

With some rates doubling or tripling, homeowners are concerned about how they’ll be able to make ends meet. We spoke with La Pine homeowner Heather Post, who shared her experiences. 

“We’re pricing literally everyone out of the American dream,” Post said. “Almost one-third of my husband’s income goes to just property tax and home insurance. I’m also paying $400 more a year because I didn’t give them a lump sum. If you wanted a lump sum, you probably shouldn’t have raised it three times, four times its rate,”

Especially for those on a fixed income, concerns about how they’ll be able to stay in their homes are looming larger each year. Reducing fire coverage is a risk many are too fearful to take, making some residents feel they may have to leave the area entirely to find financial relief. 

“We get into a house, we’re comfortable with our bills. And then hikes keep happening, and it prices people out. Then our one safe place, our one happy paradise, gets taken from us,” Post said.

While insurance companies are legally not allowed by state law to use the highly contested state wildfire risk map to determine rates or coverage, customers felt there was a correlation between its release and their increase in insurance issues. We spoke with one local insurance agent to find out more.

Chris Schalker of Country Financial told KTVZ News, “it’s kind of the wild West when it comes to insurance right now. Rates are going up everywhere across the country, especially in areas with more forest density, (but) the new state map has no effect on whether or not we will write a policy, or not renew somebody.”

We asked what recourse people have, if they are faced with a cancellation or startling increase. Finding a local insurance agent who can meet with you about your specific home and potential alterations you can make to your property or policy was at the top of the list.

“I would recommend reaching out to your insurance agent and finding out where there might be opportunities for them to lower their rates and get themselves in a better place…as long as there’s options available and people are educated, I think we can weather the storm,” Schalker said.

If you are struggling to find coverage, you could be eligible for a policy through the Oregon Fair Plan Association. You can also receive a free ‘defensible space’ assessment of your property by the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

Though a simple solution may not yet be in sight, we will keep you updated with any new, useful information.

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

CLARNO, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Butte Creek Fire in Wheeler County showed no signs of growth Tuesday as crews reached 20% containment of the nearly 1,800-acre fire about nine miles north of Clarno.

Firefighters are working on constructing a line around the fire perimeter.  The fire remains estimated at approximately 1,776 acres and is currently 20% contained. Crews continued to engage in active fire suppression activities on Wednesday.

No evacuations or closures are currently in place. However, in the interest of public safety, boaters are asked to not disembark on the east bank of the John Day River south of Basalt Beach Camp and north of Lower Clarno Rapids, as this is within the fire perimeter. Boaters in the general area are asked to use caution as helicopters continue dipping water out of the John Day River.

Officials also said this will be the last daily update for the Butte Creek Fire, unless significant changes occur. Future updates will be posted on the official source for wildfire information in Central Oregon at centraloregonfire.org and on X/Twitter @CentralORfire.

Click here to follow the original article.

Tyson Beauchemin

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — When you think back on your time in school, you may remember a particular lesson or project that stuck with you for all your life.

Those are the moments for which teachers should be rewarded, and that’s why KTVZ News and Mid Oregon Credit Union have teamed up for One Class at a Time. We’re giving teachers who make a difference $1,000 to fuel their future endeavors.

This month, we visited Sky View Middle School for a very special day. The Career Technical Education program at Sky View is all about hands-on experiences, and so they got a visit from members of the OSU-Cascade Engineering Department, who taught them how to build speakers from scratch.

It took an hour but with just some paper, a magnet, and a lot of wire and glue, each student made their own tiny speaker and then played music on it more or less.

The teacher behind this is Loren Renfro. She was right alongside her students for the entire project and was just as excited about their progress as they were.

It’s our hope that the $1,000 will make for another memorable experience for students. These funds are going toward a field trip for kids to learn about wildfire management.

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

(update: adding video)

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) —  A tiny opossum found wandering earlier this month has made his way to a new home at the Oregon Zoo.

The 9.5-ounce joey, estimated to be about three months old, was found behind an apartment building in Lebanon, Ore., and cared for by the Chintimini Wildlife Center, who worked with state wildlife officials to bring him to the zoo.

“This little opossum had a rough start in life — he wouldn’t have survived long on his own,” said Eliza Lee, who oversees the zoo’s ambassador animal area. “He’s settling in nicely and already showing us his curious personality.” 

Named Nigel by care staff, the pint-sized marsupial is living behind the scenes in the zoo’s ambassador animal area. While he’s getting used to his surroundings for now, Lee hopes he’ll venture out soon to meet visitors as a representative of his species — one that’s often misunderstood.

“People are sometimes scared of opossums, but they’re lovable in their own way,” Lee said. “We hope Nigel will help people connect to this unique species and learn more about what makes opossums so awesome.” 

Opossums — the only marsupials found in North America — are considered invasive in the Pacific Northwest. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Virginia opossum was first introduced in Oregon between 1910 and 1921. Populations were established in northwestern Oregon, apparently from releases of animals brought to the state as pets or novelties.

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — As wildfire season arrives and the danger rises, the Central Oregon Fire Chiefs Association announced Wednesday that it will close open debris burning starting Sunday evening for residential and private lands across the tri-county region in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.

Burning debris piles on many private lands will not be allowed after sunset on Sunday, June 1, as the area heads into the summer wildland fire season. 

“It’s that time of the year when the region’s fire chiefs collectively agree to close burning for the season,” said COFCA Chair Todd Riley, Fire Chief for Bend Fire & Rescue.

Residents can still reduce their wildfire risk by creating defensible space on their property. Until the burn season opens again in the fall, options include chipping debris, taking it to a landfill or transfer site, or pile and cover it until fall.

All Central Oregon fire departments and rural fire districts will continue to monitor weather and fuel moisture conditions in their districts and may make modifications on a day-to-day basis. Please call your local burn information line for current conditions, additional information and regulations. Fire agencies anticipate the opening of burn season again in late fall.  

Local burn information: 

Alfalfa Fire District – 541-382-2333 

Bend/Deschutes Rural District #2 – 541-322-6335 

Black Butte Ranch – 541-595-2288 

Cloverdale – 541-389-2345 

Crook County Fire & Rescue – 541-447-BURN (2876) 

Crooked River Ranch RFPD – 541-923-4633 

Jefferson County Fire & EMS – 541-475-1789 

La Pine Fire Department – 541-536-9056 

Lake Chinook Fire & Rescue  – 541-410-5077 

Redmond Fire & Rescue – 541-504-5035 

Sisters-Camp Sherman – 541-549-2333 

Warm Springs Fire & Safety – 541-553-1146 

Partner Organizations: 

541-383-5300 - Deschutes National Forest 

541-416-6500 - Ochoco National Forest/Crooked River Grasslands 

541-416-6700 - Bureau of Land Management 

541-447-5658 - Oregon Department of Forestry Prineville Unit 

541-549-2731 – Oregon Department of Forestry Sisters Sub-Unit 

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

SALEM. Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Health Authority announced Wednesday it has hired former St. Charles Health System President and CEO James Diegel as the interim superintendent for Oregon State Hospital. His first day will be June 4.

Diegel will take over from Acting Superintendent Dave Baden, OHA deputy director of policy and programs, who has served in the interim role since April 14.

“Jim brings years of expertise, skill and compassion as a hospital administrator in Oregon, Hawaii and Washington, D.C., and has valued experience working with regulatory agencies like The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and The Joint Commission,” said OHA Interim Director Kris Kautz.

“I am confident he will lead the hospital through the ongoing CMS survey process with successful results, as well as continue to build off the work plan Dave has started and continue to help the OSH team ensure that all patients receive the care they deserve in a safe environment,” Kautz added

Diegel was president and CEO of St. Charles for eight years before stepping down in 2014. The Lund Report noted that Diegel helped facilitate the merger of the Bend and Redmond hospitals in 2001, and oversaw the health system’s strategy and growth to include facilities in Bend, Redmond, Prineville and Madras.

And Oregon Live/The Oregonian pointed out Diegel is the third interim superintendent of the state’s struggling psychiatric hospital in just over a year.

OHA said the recruitment process for a permanent superintendent is ongoing. It said Diegel’s role as interim director will enable the hospital and its staff to continue executing steps laid out by Acting Superintendent Dave Baden. Baden will continue his role as OHA deputy director.

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend-La Pine Schools announced Wednesday it has chosen new principals for High Desert Middle School and Cascade Middle School for the 2025-26 school year.   

Heather Bailey joins Bend-La Pine Schools as the new principal of High Desert Middle School, bringing over two decades of experience in K–8 education to the new role. Heather has a strong track record of leading school improvement through student-centered, systems-based, relationship-driven leadership.    

“In Heather, we found a leader who brings both the systems thinking and the heart that High Desert needs right now,” Dr. Steven Cook, Superintendent of Bend-La Pine Schools, said. “Her experience in middle school leadership, focus on creating opportunities for student success, and proven ability to build structures that support staff and students align directly with what the community told us they were looking for in a new leader – a steady, thoughtful leader ready to build upon the strengths the talented HDMS staff has built to continue to move the school forward.”   

Most recently the Principal of Kraxberger Middle School in the Gladstone School District, Bailey led the school out of state-mandated improvement status by implementing data-informed support structures and expanding opportunities for multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Her career reflects a deep commitment to instructional excellence, inclusive practices, and building collaborative school communities.   

Bailey has over 12 years of experience as a school leader and 14 years as a classroom teacher, where she taught kindergarten, 4th and 5th grades with a focus on early literacy and differentiated instruction.   

She will begin her role July 1, and is taking over for current Principal Jessica Reilly, who will be moving to another administrative role with the Bend-La Pine Schools.   

Kelly Schmidt has been hired to serve as the next Principal at Cascade Middle School, bringing a record of successful school leadership to Bend-La Pine Schools. Kelly has a depth of experience leading a variety of populations across grades 6-12.    

“In Kelly, Cascade is getting a principal with extensive secondary school leadership experience,” Dr. Cook said. “She has a strong reputation as a leader who is student-centered and works to build systems to ensure all students can achieve their fullest potential.”   

Most recently the Principal at Wilsonville High School in the West Linn-Wilsonville School District, Schmidt previously worked as a middle school Principal in West-Linn Wilsonville and Oregon City school districts and as a middle school Assistant Principal in Oregon City and Canby.   

She has over 15 years of experience as a school leader and 10 years as a classroom teacher.   

Schmidt will begin her role July 1, and is taking over for current Principal Gabe Pagano, who will be moving to the role of Director of District Activities & Athletics with Bend-La Pine Schools. 

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Boulder, Colorado-based Vero Broadband, LLC, operating as Vero Fiber, a leading provider of fiber-to-the-premises internet services, announced Wednesday it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire BendTel, Inc.., a locally owned and operated telecom provider that has served Central Oregon for more than two decades.

“This strategic acquisition complements Vero’s ongoing organic expansion in Central Oregon and establishes a key foothold in one of the fastest-growing markets in the Pacific Northwest,” the joint news release stated. The purchase price was not disclosed in the release, which continues in full below:

BendTel brings a long-standing reputation for reliable enterprise connectivity and voice services, built on deep roots in the Bend business community. The company owns and operates a robust fiber network, serving a wide range of residential and commercial clients across the region.

With the addition of BendTel’s infrastructure and customer base, Vero is significantly expanding its regional capabilities while continuing to invest in building new fiber infrastructure throughout Deschutes County. 

“We’ve been actively building our footprint in Bend, and this acquisition accelerates that momentum,” said Sunita Krishna, CEO of Vero Broadband. “BendTel has a strong legacy in Bend and a deep understanding of the local business landscape. We’re excited to bring our resources and experience to scale that foundation while maintaining the local service customers have come to trust.” 

The acquisition represents Vero’s latest step in executing its strategy of blending strategic acquisitions with organic growth to meet the rising demand for fiber connectivity. 

“As Bend continues to grow, we want to continue to offer our high-standard services to a broader community,” said Tom Barrett, CEO of BendTel. “Joining Vero allows us to expand faster and bring even greater value to our customers. Their commitment to community-focused growth and network excellence makes them an ideal partner.” 

The acquisition is expected to be completed on September 1, 2025. 

— 

About Vero Broadband, LLC 

Vero Broadband, the fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) division of VFN Holdings, Inc., is committed to expanding high-speed broadband access in underserved communities through its fiber-based retail offerings for both residential and business customers. In addition to its broadband services, Vero’s portfolio includes a wholesale division specializing in the design, construction, and management of dark fiber infrastructure for hyperscale cloud providers, K–12 schools (E-Rate), government entities, enterprises, and wireless and wireline carriers. Vero also provides a comprehensive suite of internet services to multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and fiber construction services to both in-house brands and third-party customers. Operating nationwide, Vero’s diverse portfolio encompasses Vero Fiber, Vero Networks, Clearnetworx, Deeply Digital, Glass Roots Construction, FastTrack Communications, and Nexgen Connected Communities. For more information, visit www.verofiber.com. 

Click here to follow the original article.