Bend
Daily News
Friday, June 20th, 2025
Good morning, Bend. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of June.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Fire crews made progress on the Alder Springs Fire near Crooked River Ranch as containment reached 26% and evacuation orders were eased so residents returned with power restored—officials reported no injuries or lost structures despite spending $4.7 million fighting the blaze and said firefighters will continue mop up work today. KTVZ
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Deschutes County detectives charged 68-year-old William Griffiths with 25 counts of animal neglect after more than 100 dead animals were found in a home on Deer Street in La Pine — he was arrested on June 19 at a trailer on Dickey Road east of Bend and will appear in court at 1:30 p.m. today. Source Weekly
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Wildland firefighters made progress on containing the Alder Springs Fire west of Crooked River Ranch and Level 3 evacuation orders have been lifted so residents can begin to return home. Fire officials set a 50-foot perimeter around the 3,278-acre blaze—helicopters, drones, and ground crews continue checking steep canyon areas for hotspots. Bend Bulletin
- ➤ Three Sisters Irrigation District completed the final section of canal piping to add permanent flow protection to Whychus Creek by installing over 23,000 feet of pipe north of Highway 126—this project is part of 20 years of work that has piped 64 miles and restored year-round flow to the creek while improving water efficiency and renewable energy generation. KTVZ
- ➤ The Oregon Health Authority issued a recreational advisory for Lake Billy Chinook today—tests found cyanotoxins above safe levels—and issued a precaution for Prineville Reservoir after an algae bloom was spotted but could not be tested due to limited resources. Officials advise avoiding swimming and high-speed water activities on Lake Billy Chinook to reduce the risk of exposure. Central Oregon Daily
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ State lawmakers cut funding for homelessness prevention on June 19th after a forecast showed $750 million less revenue, which reduced rent assistance funds to $34 million while shelter support remained mostly steady. Local service providers in Bend warned that the cuts may force more families into alternative living situations—increasing the risk of homelessness. Bend Bulletin
- ➤ Five community members elected in May took the oath Tuesday evening along with Jenn Lynch, Ross Tomlin, Marcus LeGrand, Shirley Olson, and Kina Chadwick—at a meeting where the board approved the 2025-26 operating budget and updated union agreements. The board will elect its chair and vice chair at its July 8 meeting. KTVZ
- ➤ A new safe parking site is coming to north Bend on the southeast corner of the Deschutes County Public Safety Campus (approved on June 18 by county commissioners) for people who live in vehicles. It will have room for up to six parking spaces (including RV spots and small microshelters) and is run by Mountain View Community Development. Central Oregon Daily
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Jon Pardi Concert
6-7:30 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience a high-energy performance from country star Jon Pardi, blending traditional sounds with modern flair.
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Earth Wind & Fire Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless hits of Earth, Wind & Fire live in Bend's iconic amphitheater.
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Girls' Empowerment: Weaving
8:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. — Skyliner Lodge — Registration required — A transformative camp for young girls to connect with nature and foster empowerment through creativity and mindfulness.
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Pine Forest Grange Community Jam
7-9 p.m. — Pine Forest Grange — Free entry — A supportive environment for acoustic musicians to showcase their talents.
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Overland Expo PNW 2025
Fri, Jun 27 – Sun, Jun 29 — Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center — Check website for pricing — The premier event for overlanding enthusiasts featuring expert classes and a comprehensive trade show.
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Barenaked Ladies Concert
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience hits from the beloved Barenaked Ladies in a lively outdoor setting.
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Beertown Comedy Open Mic Night
6:30-9 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter at this popular open mic event for locals.
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Postmodern Jukebox Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Tower Theatre — $54 - $74 — Experience a retro revival with performers from the popular YouTube channel in vintage attire.
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Lake Street Dive Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Tickets available — Celebrate joy and togetherness with Lake Street Dive's eclectic musical fusion.
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Christmas in July with Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive Santa
Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive has taken over for the Toys for Tots which has suspended operations in Central Oregon and Marines from MCL 1308 with support from Summit Health are taking over with our Santa on the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st of July and 7 of August every Thursday at 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm BRING A TOY PLEASE its needed
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Christmas in July with Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive Santa
Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive has taken over for the Toys for Tots which has suspended operations in Central Oregon and Marines from MCL 1308 with support from Summit Health are taking over with our Santa on the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st of July and 7 of August every Thursday at 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm BRING A TOY PLEASE its needed
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