Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 28th of March.
Good morning, Bend.
🏘️ Community
Today on Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer talked with Gwenn Wysling (executive director of Bethlehem Inn) who has led the shelter since 2010 to help locals facing homelessness.
They discussed the rising demand for emergency housing and the challenges of running services at multiple locations.
🌲 Environment
Record numbers of nearly 1,000 adult steelhead returned to the Pelton Round Butte hydropower project on the Deschutes River during the 2024-2025 run that ends this month, according to Portland General Electric and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.
Scientists say improved fish passage and beneficial ocean conditions helped over 950 steelhead pass upstream—the highest count since the 1960s.
State lawmakers in Oregon approved $218 million in emergency wildfire funding last December to help combat fires as the season begins in April.
Officials say budget shortfalls and federal delays may force the legislature to seek new revenue sources for fire prevention.
🏛️ Government
The Oregon Employment Department said it found unspecified errors on 12,000 unemployment tax forms that must be replaced before the April 15 tax deadline.
The department blamed its switch to a new computer system—used for processing benefits since the 1990s—for the mistake that affected about 5% of forms and said people will receive corrected forms by mail or online.
Alyssa’s Law, which would require schools to consider installing a wireless or wearable panic alarm, passed the House unanimously Tuesday by a 50-0 vote led by Bend Rep. Levy.
The bill now moves to the Senate—where lawmakers will vote on next steps to boost school safety.
🎉 Bend Events
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Beertown Comedy Open Mic
6:30-9:00 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter at Bend's favorite open mic for comedians and spectators alike.
🏠 Bend Real Estate
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💼 Bend Job Board
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📣 Bend Announcements
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