Good morning, Bend.

Abby Rowland, executive director of Saving Grace, said the nonprofit offers a 24-hour emergency shelter and hospital support for survivors and will host a Take Back The Night event on April 24 (6:00 to 8:00 p.m.) in partnership with Central Oregon Community College to raise sexual assault awareness. She said the event underscores the nonprofit’s ongoing efforts during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

St. Charles Health System was Central Oregon’s largest employer with over 5,000 workers, as Economic Development for Central Oregon reported on April 11.

The study said the top 50 employers provided jobs for almost one-fourth of nonfarm employees, including Brightwood Corp. + BasX Solutions + Epic Aircraft.

Local small businesses face higher costs as new tariffs on Asian goods raise prices on needed supplies.

A 90-day pause on most tariffs has not eased worries since tariffs on items from China remain about 145%—forcing companies to choose between raising prices or cutting orders.

Transit workers with union Local 757 rallied for a 5% pay raise on Friday morning in Bend as low wages and high living costs make it hard to cover basic needs.

They marched near Hawthorne Station before entering contract bargaining with Cascade East Transit officials—hoping to secure living wages and reduce driver turnover.

Five Central Oregon schools earned national RAMP certification for their strong school counseling programs.

Two in Redmond (Sage Elementary and Obsidian Middle) and two in Sisters (Sisters Elementary and Sisters Middle), along with Caldera High in Bend, met strict national standards and will be honored this summer at the American School Counselor Association conference.

The city of Bend is reviewing its tree protection code after affordable housing developer Thistle & Nest refused to submit a tree preservation plan for a 30-unit project on a 2-acre site—city officials argue the rule is needed to save local trees while the developer claims it violates clear state law—and residents now have two weeks to submit testimony before hearings officer James Dole makes a decision within 21 days.

Campbell McKean—a senior at Caldera—was named The Oregonian/OregonLive boys swimmer of the year after he set three state records at the OSAA Class 5A championships on February 22nd at Tualatin Hills Aquatic Center.

More than 2,000 runners are expected this Sunday for the 10th edition of the Bend Marathon, which features a full marathon, half-marathon, 10K and 5K races starting at 7 a.m. Races take place in the Old Mill District and roads will be closed from 7 to 10 a.m.—officials ask motorists to plan ahead.

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.

Beertown Comedy Open Mic

6:30-9 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Experience a fun-filled night with laughter from local comedians at Bend's top-rated open mic.

Macbeth Performance

6-8 p.m. — Downtown Bend Library — Free entry — Witness the chaos of ambition and madness in Shakespeare's thrilling tragedy.