Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of March.
Good morning, Bend.
Nearly 100 Bend runners gathered Wednesday night in support of local artist Megan Marie Meyers, whose inoperable brain tumor diagnosis spurred a pub run that started at FootZone and ended at Cascade Lakes Brewing, with part of the brewery's sales donated to help her treatment.
Bend was named one of America’s best up-and-coming cities by HGTV (listing it No. 12 on its top 30 small city list).
The city’s population has doubled over 25 years to 104,557 as it attracts remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bend’s well-known men’s clothing retailer REVOLVR is expanding to open a new 1,500 sqft shop in the Old Mill District in early May — the site was formerly Francesca’s.
Founded by locals Christine and Jon Davis, the boutique will offer a modern mix of best-selling labels.
Toubab Krewe, known for blending jammy rock with West African sounds, will perform Saturday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Tower Theatre — 835 NW Wall Street.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets cost between $14 and $29.
Bella Emry, 22, moved from Yamhill to Bend in high school and recently auditioned for American Idol by submitting an online video and performing in Nashville for judges such as Luke Bryan.
Local fans continue to back her as she creates original music that reflects her strong Central Oregon roots.
Deadly white-nose syndrome has been confirmed in bats as several dead bats in Columbia and Benton counties were found in residential areas — state wildlife officials are now ramping up monitoring and coordinating with partners to track its spread.
A wildfire burned about 20 acres near La Pine on Tuesday, prompting fire officials to warn of an early and potentially longer fire season.
Crews are monitoring dry conditions while advising residents to clear debris and follow safe burning rules.
Smoke lingers over parts of Jefferson and Crook counties as prescribed burns continue to reduce wildfire risk, with crews treating nearly 270 acres near Buck Butte today—more ignitions will start around 9:30 a.m. near Sisters and southeast of Bend, and trail closures will remain until conditions improve.
Central Oregon high schools celebrated a record-breaking winter sports season.
Bend girls swimming won a fourth state title and Maddie Thornton set new meet records while wrestling and basketball teams from Crook County and Redmond reached historic milestones at state tournaments.
Intermountain Conference announced all-league selections for the 2025-26 high school boys basketball season today, naming Crook County's Bryce Lowenbach as Player of the Year, Ridgeview's Gavin Leunen as Defensive Player of the Year, and Jason Mumm as Coach of the Year following a vote by league coaches.
Intermountain Conference for girls basketball announced awards for the 2025-26 high school season (Redmond's Mylaena Norton was named player of the year and Alex Carlson received coach of the year honors) to recognize top local talent.
The Oregon Adaptive Sports program Ski For Life equips nearly 100 students with disabilities with adaptive gear and certified ski instructors at Hoodoo Ski Area and Mt. Bachelor this winter + partners with regional schools to boost skills and independence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TEDxBend 2026
9 AM – 2 PM — Caldera Theater — Free entry — Explore the theme of 'Rebirth' and embrace new beginnings with inspiring talks.
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.
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.
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.
Bike Computer Navigation Clinic
6-7:30 p.m. — Sunnyside Sports — Free — Learn how to enhance your biking experience with expert navigation tips and support.
Peaks Prom: A Totally 80s Night
Join the Seven Peaks community for an unforgettable throwback night featuring an 80s DJ, warm appetizers, dessert bar, beer and cocktails! All proceeds from the evening will directly support Seven Peaks School. Come for the one-of-a-kind experiences: DeLorean photo ops, 80s movies, song dedications, and more. Bid on awesome live and silent auction items!
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