Bend
Daily News
Tuesday, March 17th, 2026
Good morning, Bend. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Sylvan Park, Bend’s highest park on Awbrey Butte, is set for a $600,000 upgrade this summer. The renovation will replace an aging playground and add an accessible path from the parking lot — funded by property taxes. Central Oregon Daily
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A five-acre fire broke out south of Bend Municipal Airport yesterday after a homeowner lost control of a permitted pile burn — officials confirmed there were no injuries or property damage. Central Oregon Daily
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The High Desert Museum will launch its spring break offerings Saturday, March 21 with extended hours, engaging exhibits and daily Sky Hunters raptor demonstrations at the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm — tickets will cost $7 with a 20% discount for members. Central Oregon Daily
- ➤ BEAT Children's Theatre is asking community members to donate handmade flowers for its production of The Secret Garden in May. The art, used for stage decoration and a silent auction at Open Space Event Studios to support the theatre, must be dropped off at BEAT Studio by Friday, Apr. 24. KTVZ
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Oregon gasoline prices have increased by 30.4 cents this week to an average rate of $4.41, with Deschutes County fueling at $4.27 today. Local stations in Bend report regular unleaded slightly higher at $4.47 while rising global oil costs may drive further increases. KTVZ
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Deschutes River High School, formerly Bend Tech Academy, will welcome new students this fall as a choice school for Deschutes County. The school focuses on career and technical programs (including STEM, medical business and construction) and currently enrolls 218 students. Source Weekly
- ➤ Bend High students raised over $900 at weekend games—using dodgeball and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments—to support the family of 10-year-old Tegen Crooks, who died this month after battling a rare neurodegenerative condition. More events including karaoke, bingo, a fun run and a concert are planned for the first week of April. Central Oregon Daily
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Experts warn that Oregon’s mild winter may lead to increased ant activity in homes this spring. Residents are advised to inspect indoor spaces and tidy outdoor areas — simple measures that can help reduce ant infestations. Central Oregon Daily
- ➤ Fire managers will conduct prescribed burning on 267 acres in Pace Jackpot burning units near Buck Butte southeast of Madras today at 10 a.m. using a targeted technique to reduce wildfire risks plus drivers may notice light smoke along Highway 26. KTVZ
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Franklin Avenue project starts in May to replace a nearly 100-year-old water line and update stormwater systems. The undercrossing will close for six months from mid-September and reopen temporarily during Thanksgiving and Christmas, while an open house takes place on Apr. 7 at Newberry Hotel to address local business concerns. Central Oregon Daily
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ AAA reports that despite rising gas prices, Bend and Central Oregon remain top destinations for spring break travelers — online applications for international driving permits ease car rentals and fuel-saving tips are shared for trips planned in March and April. KTVZ
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ A Beacon Report by Beacon Appraisal Group showed that Central Oregon home prices increased in February with Bend’s median sale price rising to $725,000—its highest since Oct. 2025—and home sales growing from 89 to 118. Other markets reported modest gains and varied inventory levels. Bend Bulletin
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Josh Blue Live Stand-Up Performance
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Tower Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the humor of Josh Blue, a celebrated comedian with a vibrant and evolving stand-up routine.
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Spiritual Crafting: Handwoven Intention Bowls
6-8 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga — Check website for costs — Gather to create sacred vessels for holding intentions through mindful crafting.
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Spring Equinox Sound Bath
5-6 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga — Bring comfort items — Welcome the spring season in a soothing sound bath experience.
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Umphrey's McGee - Sky's The Limit Tour
8-9:30 p.m. — Midtown Ballroom/Domino Room/Annex — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the eclectic rock and improvisational brilliance of Umphrey's McGee live in Bend.
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Mala Bracelet Workshop & Gong Sound Bath
6-8 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga — Discount for friends — Create your own mala bracelet and unwind with an immersive gong sound bath experience.
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2026 Buddy Werner Championships
March 27-29 — Mount Bachelor Village Resort by Meredith Lodging — $190 registration — Compete in alpine skiing events designed for U12 licensed athletes.
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TEDxBend 2026
9 AM – 2 PM — Caldera Theater — Free entry — Explore the theme of 'Rebirth' and embrace new beginnings with inspiring talks.
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Beats & Bites Brunch Featuring Reb Conner
11 AM – 1 PM — Currents at the Riverhouse — Cost not specified — Experience a blend of genres with soulful live music while enjoying brunch by the river.
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Donavon Frankenreiter Live in Concert
7-9 p.m. — Tower Theatre — Check event page for ticket pricing — Enjoy an evening of relaxing grooves and soulful music from the former pro surfer turned musician.
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March History Pub: 100 Years of Landscape Change in Central Oregon
7-8 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — $5 — Discover the evolution of the Skyline Trail's landscape since 1920 with engaging historical insights.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
~ James Clear
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