Good morning, Bend.

Unofficial Logging Co. in downtown Bend has started hosting monthly Engage Deschutes gatherings that let residents talk about local political and development issues.

This month's meeting focused on transportation with guest speakers and open forum time, and events are held every fourth Thursday from 6—8 p.m. and are free to attend.

A 51-year-old south Deschutes County man, Justin Noble Sayers, was arrested on March 21 and indicted on nine felony counts for encouraging child sex abuse and luring a minor after investigators found he had posed as a juvenile online for two years to receive explicit images from young girls + he was released on 10% bail and faces court restrictions banning online device use and contact with minors before his arraignment next Tuesday.

The Humane Society of Central Oregon took in 30 dogs seized from a La Pine woman arrested on 69 counts of animal neglect and said the shelter was already at full capacity, with one dog dead and four missing, while asking residents to help with donations, fostering, or adoption.

In an interview with KTVZ, Congressman Cliff Bentz said he plans to downsize the federal government and support Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid—efforts aimed at fiscal responsibility—while urging steps to protect Oregon’s forests from wildfire risk.

His remarks come as part of his ongoing effort to balance government cuts with essential public programs.

Two state senators—Broadman from Bend and McLane from Powell Butte—urged major insurers including State Farm, Allstate and Liberty Mutual to pause cancelling policies based on wildfire risk maps until at least the end of the year.

They requested a response by March 31 as they called for assessments using real, parcel-level data.

Starting March 30, county crews will remove the Hamehook Road Bridge and the Wilcox Avenue Bridge while ODOT works concrete on 11th Street and Bend crews perform water utility work on Knott Road—road closures and detour routes will cause delays until April 9.

Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road will stay closed for the winter until Memorial Day when crews hope to remove snow if weather permits.

Crooked River Ranch will welcome a new fire truck on Monday—according to a representative who confirmed the vehicle's arrival.

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.

Community Tour of KIDS Center

5-6 p.m. — KIDS Center — Free entry — Explore KIDS Center and discover how the community is addressing child abuse through healing journeys and supportive resources.