Good morning, Bend.

Deschutes County deputies said a 13-year-old snowboarder from Anacortes, Washington died on Mt. Bachelor after crashing into a tree near the Sunrise chairlift around 11:15 a.m. — no witnesses reported the collision.

Ricky Fontaine, 32, was sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison on Wednesday after deputies found over 1,000 grams of fentanyl, a .22 caliber handgun and drug evidence during a traffic stop and search of his home.

The Deschutes National Forest announced on April 9 that firefighters will start the spring prescribed burning season in mid-April if conditions allow—covering nearly 9,000 acres around Bend, Camp Sherman, Crescent, La Pine, Sisters and Sunriver.

Officials say these controlled burns help lower wildfire risks and improve forest health.

Late Tuesday, the Senate Judiciary committee passed Senate Bill 174 by a 4—2 vote to remove the insurance industry's exemption from Oregon’s consumer protection law.

Supporters say the law will give consumers a new tool to hold insurers accountable, while business groups warn it could lead to higher insurance costs.

NeighborImpact, a local food assistance organization, said a USDA funding freeze is cutting its food supplies by 17% — a drop that could leave thousands without enough food — and has affected its support for 83,000 people.

Congresswoman Janelle Bynum visited on April 5 to urge a reversal as the nonprofit seeks $2 million annually in state funds to offset the federal cuts.

Lawmakers in the House voted last Tuesday to send a wildfire funding bill for further debate without a beverage container tax—many argued that the tax would hurt the recycling program.

A bill to help fire victims did not get a hearing while a utility safety measure advanced and a Senate committee approved repealing a wildfire risk map that rural owners said was inaccurate—officials plan to take additional steps next.

Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity invites the public to tour its unique Net Zero home at 1475 SE Wilson Avenue built in partnership with Hiatus Homes to offer an affordable option for middle-income buyers—another open house will be held Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. while applications remain open until April 21.

MBSEF is hosting the Pole Pedal Paddle 2025 race that features six legs — including skiing, biking, kayaking, and running — which competitors can complete alone, in pairs, or in teams.

Early-bird registration ends April 13 and the event needs hundreds of volunteers to help run it from Thursday through Saturday.

SHINE Acoustic Trio Performance

8 p.m. — The Commonwealth Pub — Free entry — Enjoy classics from the '70s, '80s, '90s and beyond with this talented local trio.

Central Oregon Wildlife Neighbors Talk

10 - 11:15 a.m. — Downtown Bend Library — Free entry — Discover the wild animals near your home with expert Alysia Wolf during this engaging, family-friendly talk.

Bend 10km Race

12 AM - 4 PM — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Check event page for registration fees — A scenic 10km race featuring beautiful trails and a manageable elevation gain.

Trivia Nights at Greg's Grill

6-8 p.m. — Greg's Grill — Free to play — Test your knowledge and win exciting prizes at this fun trivia night event.

Happy Hour in the Garden

4-6 p.m. — The Environmental Center — Free entry — Volunteer and enjoy beverages while helping in the Kansas Avenue Learning Garden.

Bingo Night at River's Place

6-8 p.m. — River's Place — Cash for bingo cards — Play bingo, win cash prizes, and support wildlife conservation efforts.

Community Tour of KIDS Center

11 AM – 12 PM — KIDS Center — Free entry — Discover the journey of healing for children and the community's efforts to combat child abuse.

COCC Clothing Connection Fashion Show

4:30-8 p.m. — Central Oregon Community College — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with a fashion show featuring students and staff while supporting a clothing service for local students.

2025 Salmon Run

9 AM – 1 PM — Riverbend Park — Registration required — Experience the scenic beauty of Bend while participating in the 37th annual Salmon Run with half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances.

Easter Brunch at Juniper Preserve

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Juniper Preserve — À la carte pricing — Enjoy a delightful chef-curated Easter brunch with a visit from the Easter Bunny.