Thursday, March 27th, 2025
Good morning, Bend. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 27th of March.
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ In February, Oregon’s unemployment rate rose to 4.5%—the highest in 3.5 years and above the 4.1% rate in the U.S., according to the Oregon Employment Department. Nonfarm payroll employment fell by 100 jobs with construction losing 2,200 jobs while gains came in professional services and information sectors. Central Oregon Daily
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Central Oregon Community College will host its Spring JobFest on four campuses next month, featuring over 40 local companies and agencies from fields such as education, health care, law enforcement and hospitality; the events run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—April 10 in Bend, April 15 in Redmond, April 23 in Madras and April 25 in Prineville. Central Oregon Daily
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ ODOT warned lawmakers that without extra funding, Oregon highways will worsen with more potholes—drivers will face slower travel and rougher roads in the coming years as gas tax revenues drop. The agency’s report showed that while 87% of roads remain in fair or better condition, roads in good shape are now at a 25-year low across 18,000 lane miles. Central Oregon Daily
- ➤ Residents along China Hat Road and local nonprofit groups sent an 81-page letter Tuesday alleging disability discrimination as the Forest Service prepares to clear 30,000 acres—forcing hundreds of campers to leave in 40 days. The Forest Service has not yet coordinated with groups like Bend Equity Project, Central Oregon Veterans Outreach and COVO on relocation efforts. KTVZ
- ➤ Local veterans held a rally at Peace Corner on March 12 to protest federal plans to cut over 80,000 VA jobs, a move that may lead to longer wait times for care. Community members worry that the upcoming review of operations will hurt access to needed services — their concerns reflect deep fears about the future. Source Weekly
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A recall was issued for Chomps Original Beef Sticks sold at Costco because they might contain metal—these 1.15 ounce sticks sold between Feb. 13 and March 21 can be returned for a full refund. Central Oregon Daily
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Travis Ehrenstrom Live Performance
6 PM - 12 AM | McMenamins Pub at Old St. Francis School | Check venue for costs | Enjoy an evening of quality musicianship and original songs from Travis Ehrenstrom.
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Flea Market at Deschutes County Fairgrounds
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center — Free entry — Explore over 130 vendor tables showcasing a variety of unique items from electronics to antiques.
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Not'cho Grandma's BINGO
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Reserve your seats ahead of time — Play bingo for a good cause with food, games, and laughter.
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Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations
10 AM - 1 PM | Downtown Bend Library | Free assistance | Connect with vital resources for housing, medical, and social support.
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Happy Hour in the Garden
4-6 p.m. — The Environmental Center — Free entry — Volunteer in the garden while enjoying refreshments at this family-friendly event.
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Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations
12-3 p.m. | Downtown Bend Library | Free entry | Access vital social services assistance and resources for housing, health, and more.
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Toddler Story Time
4-5:30 p.m. — Downtown Bend Library — Free — Enjoy a fun afternoon of art, games, and free stories for all ages.
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Teacher Workshop: The Restorative Power of Nature Journaling
9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — The Environmental Center — Free! — Discover the benefits of nature journaling for personal wellness and classroom integration.
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Run for the Nations 5k
7-10 a.m. — Old Mill District — Family-friendly run/walk — Celebrate multicultural community spirit with a fun 5k event.
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Bend Cars & Coffee
8-11 a.m. — Dilly Dally Coffee Co. — Free entry — Gather with fellow car enthusiasts and enjoy coffee while showcasing unique vehicles.
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
Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears.
~ Les Brown
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