Good morning, Bend.

Retail theft in Bend has risen over the past four years so Deschutes County law enforcement held a listening session Wednesday with retailers to track repeat offenders and improve reporting—local businesses welcomed the direct communication as the city grows.

OSU-Cascades is building a new child care center at its Bend Campus and will close the Little Beavs program this summer.

The 7200 square foot Little Kits Early Care and Education Center is set to open in August and will eventually serve up to 72 children—despite starting with limited capacity due to staffing shortages.

People emailed questions to Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler about new homes and a possible ban on gas-powered leaf blowers during a live call on Thursday morning.

The show said a new Ask the Mayor series featuring Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch will start next Thursday at Sunrise—people can send in questions.

Oregon ranchers are asking lawmakers for higher payouts for livestock killed by wolves— a proposed bill would pay up to seven times the market value of calves and more to cover hidden losses.

Lawmakers remain divided as some Democrats worry the changes could reduce funds for prevention and worsen conflicts with wolf conservation efforts.

Oregon’s U.S. senators have demanded an explanation for a freeze on income-driven student loan repayment plans—leaving more than 12 million borrowers in limbo.

They are calling on the U.S. Department of Education to clarify the decision and outline next steps.

Bend’s historic post office is being transformed into The Westman, a boutique hotel with a $15 million renovation that keeps its old charm and adds modern design.

The hotel will open (fall 2025) with a public lobby bar called Minnie’s that aims to refresh downtown.

Oregon Battle of Books Regional Competition

Seven Peaks School is thrilled to host the OBOB Regional Competitions for 2025. Join our readers, librarians, families, and coaches as they come together to support our 3rd - 5th grade teams this coming Saturday, March 15th.

Oregon Battle of Books Regional Competition

Seven Peaks School is thrilled to host the OBOB Regional Competitions for 2025. Join our readers, librarians, families, and coaches as they come together to support our 3rd - 5th grade teams this coming Saturday, March 15th.

McMenamins St. Patrick's Weekend Celebration

The Vibeshiftas will perform two sets in Father Luke's Room at McMenamins Old St. Francis School during St. Patrick's Weekend.

Preschool Story Time at Downtown Bend Library

A story time event for children aged 3-5 featuring stories, songs, and rhymes designed to develop early literacy skills.

Community Innovation Fund Info Session

This info session provides details on the application process for projects aimed at reducing waste in Deschutes County, offering potential funding of up to $5,000.

Oliver Hazard Live Concert

Oliver Hazard will perform live at the Midtown Ballroom/Domino Room/Annex in Bend, Oregon.

Free Community Tour of KIDS Center

A one-hour tour of KIDS Center focused on educating the community about efforts to end child abuse and support children’s healing journeys.

Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations

This event offers drop-in social services assistance, connecting attendees with resources for housing, medical access, mental health, and veterans services.

Robert Neary Live in Concert

Experience a live performance by Robert Neary at the Tower Theatre in Bend, Oregon.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Spring Break Program

The Spring Break Program offers children engaging activities from March 24-27, 2025, at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend.

Quiet Writing Time

9:30-11:00 a.m. | Downtown Bend Library | Free entry | Enjoy the focus of a quiet space with the benefit of others' company.