Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A recently canceled $10,000 federal grant awarded to Central Oregon Community College’s rural youth camps from the National Endowment for the Arts, eliminated due to federal program cuts, is being fulfilled by emergency funding from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts and the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation.

COCC said Thursday that its program was one of just 80 nationwide to receive the stand-in support.

Replacing the “Challenge America” award from the NEA — announced by the college in January as the first-ever grant from that agency — the aid will be used to develop and expand art-focused summer youth camps at COCC’s branch campuses, including offering camps for free or at reduced cost for rural families. 

The grant will allow students from Jefferson and Crook counties, age 10-15, to attend a multi-day nature journaling and sketching “Field Notes” camp, held in August.

Families can view all camps and register at cocc.edu/youth

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Barney Lerten

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — The City of Sisters is working with consultant NV5 on the development of a Master Plan for Northwest Park, located near the southeast corner of the Highway 20 and Barclay Drive roundabout, city officials said Thursday.

Here’s the full announcement, from the city’s web page:

The process of developing the master plan aims to assess the community’s recreational needs and interests and determine how the park can best serve the community.

The plan will provide guidance for future development, including potential phases of construction, and enable the city to explore various funding opportunities.

With careful planning, Northwest Park will enhance outdoor spaces and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors year-round. 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

An open house will be held on Thursday, May 22nd from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Sisters Community Recreation Center (Former Sisters Elementary School at 611 E. Cascade Ave.).

The open house will serve as an opportunity to learn more about the project and share thoughts on the park’s design. Anyone with an interest in the future of Sisters’ parks and public spaces is encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be provided. Your input is vital in shaping the future of this exciting community project!

This site will be updated periodically with additional project information, so visit again to stay up to date.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes County Solid Waste Department has expanded its household hazardous waste disposal options at Knott Landfill in Bend, giving residents the opportunity to drop off hazardous items every Friday and Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., free of charge.

Solid Waste recently brought its hazardous waste disposal program in-house, transitioning away from using an outside vendor. This shift enabled the department to increase its HHW collection days from two weekends a month to Friday and Saturday every week.

“We’re excited to be able to offer Deschutes County residents free household hazardous waste collection every week,” said Greg Brady, Deschutes County Hazardous Waste Supervisor.

“Improper disposal of household hazardous waste can impact the environment, as well as community health by leaching toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater. We hope that by expanding our collection days, we can reduce the amount of hazardous waste ending up in the county landfill.”

Unfinished paint containers are among the most common household hazardous wastes found in the county landfill, largely because people are unsure how to dispose of them correctly. Another frequently tossed out item is rechargeable batteries, like those found in cell phones, laptops, power tools and toys, but this can be dangerous because lithium-ion batteries are known to start fires in the landfill.

Solid Waste encourages residents to set aside their unfinished paint cans, rechargeable batteries and other household hazardous waste materials and then drop them at the Hazardous Waste Facility when it is convenient.

The county’s Hazardous Waste Facility at Knott Landfill accepts a wide variety of hazardous waste, including unused paints and stains, cleaning compounds, pool and spa chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers rechargeable batteries, fluorescent tubes and bulbs, propane tanks, and more.

The Hazardous Waste Facility also accepts business hazardous waste for a fee. Businesses must pre-register and qualify as Very Small Quantity Generator. Fees are based on volume and type of material.

To learn more about common hazardous waste materials, visit the Solid Waste Department website. For questions about the Household Hazardous Waste program, please call (541) 317-3163.

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Gregory Deffenbaugh

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Central Oregon’s athletes are stepping into the spotlight like never before. KTVZ is proud to announce the launch of its new weekly sports show, Beyond the Score, hosted by Sports Director Dylan Anderman. The show premieres Sunday, June 15th at 10:30 p.m. on KFXO (FOX) and will re-air on KTVZ+, giving viewers multiple ways to tune in and connect with the heart of local sports.

Beyond the Score will move past final stats and game-day highlights to tell the personal, powerful, and often untold stories of the people driving Central Oregon athletics — from high school athletes and dedicated coaches to inspiring community members behind the scenes.

“This is more than just highlights,” said Anderman. “It’s about telling stories that matter — stories that make Central Oregon sports special. Growing up here, playing on the fields and courts of this community, I know firsthand how much heart and effort goes into every season, every game, and every practice. This show is about honoring that.”

Anderman, a Central Oregon native and former collegiate athlete, has long championed local sports coverage with a focus on inclusivity and representation. His vision for Beyond the Score is to ensure every athlete and supporter — no matter their background or experience — feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

“Dylan brings a unique authenticity to this project,” said News Director Gregory Deffenbaugh. “He understands our viewers because he’s one of them. He’s lived the experience of being a local athlete, and he’s dedicated to ensuring everyone in the Central Oregon sports community feels seen and valued.”

KTVZ General Manager Ron Parodi shared his excitement for the new series: “Beyond the Score is a reflection of our commitment to telling local stories in meaningful ways. Dylan’s passion and deep community roots make him the perfect voice to lead this show. We’re proud to bring this kind of storytelling to viewers across Central Oregon.”

Airing weekly on Sundays at 10:30 p.m. on KFXO (FOX) with replays on KTVZ+, Beyond the Score will feature exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes access, and deep dives into the triumphs and challenges of Central Oregon’s sports community.

“We want this show to be something the community feels a part of,” Anderman said. “If you know someone making an impact in the local sports world, we want to hear about them. This is their platform.”

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Kelsey Merison

(Update: OSP issues new info, tally of seized animals)

BANDON, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon State Police said Tuesday that 310 animals have been seized and relocated from the West Coast Game Park Safari, where a raid took place last Thursday after a lengthy criminal investigation. Three others were euthanized due to their condition.

Their latest release is below.

On Sunday, May 18, just before 10 p.m., investigators concluded their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari and cleared the area. As a result of the search, 310 animals were seized and relocated to accredited and/or permitted animal sanctuary or rescue facilities.

No animals were released into the wild or unattended as a result of the search warrants.

Unfortunately, due to their physical condition, a chicken and a kinkajou were euthanized. This is in addition to the camel that was euthanized on the first day of the search (and is not the young camel featured in the previously distributed photograph).

Investigators are now processing all of the evidence obtained during their four-day search of the property. Due to the ongoing investigation and future adjudication of the case, no further information is available for release.

Oregon State Police thanks our partners and the multiple animal sanctuary and rescue organizations who assisted during the multiday incident. These efforts would not have been possible or successful without their continued assistance.

—

Earlier OSP update:

Update: Animal care specialists continue assessing animal welfare at West Coast Game Park Safari

A complete inventory and forensic assessment of animals is continuing today and seized animals will be transported to appropriate, reputable facilities where they will receive specialized veterinary care. The preplanning for the operation accounted for the relocation of all seized animals.

Veterinarians and staff with the Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Oregon Department of Agriculture evaluated animal welfare on scene. This assessment includes an animal’s physical condition, food quality, water supply, sanitation, enclosure conditions, and care sufficient to preserve their health and well-being.

Animal care has been a primary consideration during the investigation. Teams of veterinary staff evaluated dietary needs of the animals and supplied fresh feed for each species. The Oregon Humane Society purchased food and staff from all agencies are assisting in animal feeding.

During initial assessments on Thursday, May 15, one camel was diagnosed with multiple serious medical conditions and suffering. Onsite veterinary staff determined the animal’s condition was sufficiently grave and treatment or transportation would likely result in death. Unfortunately, humane euthanasia was the appropriate option.

On May 15th, the Wild Game Safari Park near Bandon was served multiple search warrants following a lengthy criminal investigation into the facility’s operations, according to Oregon State Police.

It comes just months after an extremely critical report by U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. KTVZ News was one of the few outlets in Oregon to report on the USDA’s inspection.

Since then, it appears the Oregon State Police have been criminally investigating the popular game park.

West Coast Game Park Safari was visited by Oregon State Police in coordination with multiple local, state, and federal partners. Agencies searched for evidence related to animal care and welfare, permitting, licensing, and business practices.

Credit: Oregon State Police

In a Thursday morning release, OSP said:

“Oregon State Police is working in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Coos County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon Department of Justice, and the IRS Criminal Investigation. Participating agencies provide regulatory oversight or bring specialized expertise in animal care to assist investigators with evaluating evidence gathered during the property search.”

The park is closed while investigations continue. No further information is available at this time, but Oregon State Police tell KTVZ News they expect to have more information on Friday.

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Kade Linville

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — From questions about water sustainability in town and upcoming development plans, to questions about traffic safety and building renovations, Mayor Ed Fitch answers your questions about Redmond and its many public programs.

Viewers can submit questions for Mayor Fitch at any time as part of our monthly segment – just click here.

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Cami Porter

BEND, Ore. –(KTVZ)– Puppies frolicked and played in the courtyard of the Whispering Winds retirement community today. The people at this assisted living center got a visit from puppies hosted by the local dog rescue group Street Dog Hero, but this visit was not just a fun day for the dogs, nor just a treat for the residents. Street Dog Hero was there to say thank you to a group of knitters from Whispering Winds who’ve been making and donating blankets for the dogs.

Sue Edgerton, a resident of Whispering Winds told KTVZ news “We love making them. We don’t know what they look like after the dogs drag them around for a while, but we love giving them and we have fun talking and getting together and knitting or crocheting.”

Street Dog Hero recently took in several new puppies from Madras and from Oklahoma. All the puppies who visited Whispering Winds are available for adoption.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The High Desert Museum invites visitors to experience the culmination of a yearlong program that dove into the diverse perspectives of wildfire in Central Oregon. Explore the artistic voices of young students in Kids Curate, open now through Sunday, June 1.

Every year, Kids Curate integrates art, science and history into classrooms and field-trip experiences with one Central Oregon elementary school over the course of the school year. The program culminates in an exhibition created by the students on the Museum’s walls. Caregivers and families celebrate the students’ work at an exhibition opening event.

“Students engage with the topic deeply through hands-on experiences to better understand many viewpoints throughout the year,” said Bonnie Lee and Oliver P. Steele III Curator of Education and Engagement Molly Wilmoth. “We’re grateful to partner with the educators at a school to provide this intensive and in-depth learning experience.”

Third and fourth graders from La Pine Elementary School participated in this year’s project. Months of learning have culminated in a series of artworks.

Each of the students’ canvases depicts a unique perspective on wildfire, a phenomenon of particular interest after last year’s Darlene 3 fire in their community. With the help of Museum educators, La Pine teachers and experts, the students explored our complicated relationship with fire in the High Desert.

As a result, more than 100 pieces of art will adorn the walls of the Desertarium Gallery at the Museum. The exhibition is an external representation of the internal process.

Museum educators first met with the students in October 2024 and continued to meet with them every other week. Through different educational disciplines – from science and art to social studies and history – the students learned about wildfire on the landscape and then translated those perspectives into art. This ranged from fire as a threat to fire as a helpful, natural process. Their new understandings of fire are highlighted through the exhibition.

As part of the Kids Curate program, the Museum included two outside voices to help the students in their yearlong learning. Ariel Cowan, regional fire specialist with the Oregon State University Extension Service, helped the students explore fire as both scientists and community members. She took part in the students’ field trip to the Museum in late February 2025, providing information on how fires can damage structures in a community but also spur new forest growth.

Artist Jake Kenobi, also known as Spring Break Jake, visited La Pine Elementary three times during the year to share his techniques with the students. From how he creates his artwork to the incorporation of feelings and emotions onto the canvas, Kenobi invited the students to see fire as more than just heat and combustion.

After gathering materials in the forest at the Museum, Kenobi assisted students in creating “studio potions.” Acrylic paint supplemented with pinecone bits, soil, pine needles and manzanita leaves adorn the canvases on display.

In addition, Kids Curate provides participating students with the pride of publicly and prominently displaying their artwork and the tools needed to continue their artistic practice.

More information about the Kids Curate program can be found at highdesertmuseum.org/kids-curate.

The 2025 Kids Curate program and exhibition is made possible by The Bloomfield Family Foundation, Braemar Charitable Trust/Trust Management Services LLC, the Chambers Family Foundation, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, the PGE Foundation and the Oregon Arts Commission. Additional support comes from Bennington Properties.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Week is not just an event — it’s a movement to showcase the vital roles women play in their communities. 

Bend-Redmond Habitat’s Women Build Week event is being held at one of their newest build sites in the area Daly Estates, which includes nine townhouses.

In response to a mostly unmet need, they are offering one- and four-bedroom homes; two- and three-bedroom homes have been typical in their other neighborhoods.  

Habitat hopes to not only bring light to the disparities women face, but assist in a solution. With 75% of Habitat homeowners being single mothers, this week hopes to encourage equity and recognition.

“We have over a hundred volunteers out here this week. It’s also an education and empowerment event … the majority of our construction staff is a woman-led construction team,” said Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity CEO Carly Colgan.

Women aren’t just building the homes – they’re buying them. Seven of the nine homebuyers in the Daly Estates neighborhood are households led by women. 

The event intends to shed light on issues women typically face when trying to get into homeownership. Lower wages than their male counterparts and higher rejection rates for obtaining a mortgage are two of the major obstacles. 

Volunteers have the opportunity for hands-on training alongside professional construction workers. To help fuel motivation, powerful messages and stories of resilience were shared during a crew lunch break. 

“We can build homes. We can build opportunity. And most importantly, we can build hope,” said Colgan.  

One of the future homeowners was also present, saying: “I’m so grateful that Habitat chose to partner with me and my family. That is the biggest blessing. And thank you so much for all of you that are here.”

For many of the volunteers, it’s also an opportunity to find connection and meaning in the work.

Volunteer Laura Voisinet said, “It’s so great to meet other women who want to join up with you, and you make friends by the end of the day. And to meet face-to-face the people’s lives that you’re helping to change – you want to keep coming back and doing that some more.”

Continuing to work through rainy and windy conditions, the dedication of those involved has been apparent. This week’s event has been a shining example of one of the messages Habitat hopes to spread — “Strong women build strong communities.”

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Triton Notary

Today, the NFL released the 2025 schedule. There are a few dates to remember, the Seattle Seahawks will face the San Francisco 49ers for a week one matchup on Sep. 7th. The Seahawks will have a bye in Week 8 before finishing the rest of the season. All the games in bold below are “regional” teams.

2025 NBC SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL SCHEDULEThurs. Sept. 4NFL Kickoff Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia EaglesSun. Sept. 7Week 1  Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo BillsSun. Sept. 14Week 2  Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota VikingsSun. Sept. 21Week 3  Kansas City Chiefs at New York GiantsSun. Sept. 28Week 4Green Bay Packers at Dallas Cowboys*Sun. Oct. 5Week 5  New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills*Sun. Oct. 12Week 6Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs*Sun. Oct. 19Week 7Atlanta Falcons at San Francisco 49ers*Sun. Oct. 26Week 8Green Bay Packers at Pittsburgh Steelers*Sun. Nov. 2Week 9Seattle Seahawks at Washington Commanders*Sun. Nov. 9Week 10Pittsburgh Steelers at L.A. Chargers*Sun. Nov. 16Week 11 Detroit Lions at Philadelphia Eagles*Sun. Nov. 23Week 12Tampa Bay Buccaneers at L.A. Rams**Thurs. Nov. 27Week 13Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens*Sun. Nov. 30Week 13Denver Broncos at Washington Commanders*Sun. Dec. 7Week 14Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs*Sun. Dec. 14Week 15Minnesota Vikings at Dallas Cowboys*Sun. Dec. 21Week 16Cincinnati Bengals at Miami DolphinsSat. Dec. 27Week 17*PEACOCK EXCLUSIVE* From Sat. pool*Sun. Dec. 28Week 17Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers*Sun. Jan. 4Week 18NFL #Game272 – TBD

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