Good morning, Bend.

Bend Park and Recreation District has opened a new art station at Larkspur Park in southeast Bend that provides a permanent year-round space for adult and youth art programs.

Classes began late September and free open houses are scheduled, including an event on Sunday, Oct. 11 (1-3 p.m.).

Several hundred Caldera High School students participated in a two-day career event last week to learn technical skills in the Army National Guard.

They took part in practical simulations (firefighting, CPR, night-vision rescue, and hazardous materials response) that featured virtual reality elements.

Redmond School District will keep its Jump Start Art program running for K-5 students after receiving a $40,000 donation from Dry Canyon Arts Association; the gift funds local artist residencies + end-of-year art celebrations to overcome budget cuts.

Bend volunteers collected 175 pounds of trash at the Old Mill District on Sept.

27 during the second year of Pick It Up, Bend. The event is part of a public space improvement program that began in 2025 — a local effort to keep recreation areas clean.

This fall, hikers can explore the 7-mile Lakeshore Loop trail at Paulina Lake (in Newberry National Volcanic Monument) with forest paths, mountain views and natural hot springs for a refreshing soak while passing campgrounds and day use areas.

Oregon families with Summer EBT funds must use benefits within 122 days of receipt; funds received on June 5 expire Oct.

4 and cardholders can take advantage of a Double Up Food Bucks match on fresh produce.

Medicare Advantage and Part D members will get mail notifying changes in 2027 coverage, including plan adjustments and network updates (like OHSU leaving Regence) before open enrollment begins Oct.15; beneficiaries should compare costs and benefits as the changes take effect Jan.1.

Dr. Will Speed, a Bend family doctor and Oregon Adaptive Sports volunteer, completed a 50-mile mountain bike race after a January crash on Powers Road caused severe brain trauma.

He registered before the accident and posted his recovery update on GoFundMe + thanked his wife and daughter at the finish.

Officials broke ground on a youth mental health facility in Redmond on Sept.

29, which will provide teens aged 12 through 17 with local access to therapy, crisis beds, medication and academic support—helping families avoid long trips over the mountain. Local agencies and a private developer are funding the project.

Cascade Christian is having a smooth start in its first season as a 4A program after winning 56-21 over Ashland to begin a 4-0 record.

Sophomore Jacoby Gettman will lead the team on the road as they face Henley later this week.

Mt. Bachelor compared snowfall records from past super El Niño seasons and found three instances brought above-average snow.

The dormant volcano resort will open its ski season Dec. 4 + weather experts will track evolving conditions.