Good morning, Bend.

Oregon state tests show students made small gains in reading, writing and math after last school year, yet they remain about 10 percentage points behind levels from before the pandemic.

In key districts like Portland and Bend La Pine, focused literacy programs and data-driven instruction spurred improvements—officials said more work is needed to reach earlier proficiency.

Federal Judge Mustafa Kasubhai ruled that the U.S. Department of Energy broke the law when it set a 10+ percent cap on indirect costs for sustainable energy projects, siding with Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield and 18 other state attorneys general who sued in August.

A team from the Bureau of Land Management—partnering with city and county officials—cleaned up homeless camps near La Pine last week by removing vehicles, trash and harmful substances to lower wildfire risks.

Dozens of people were moved and given help as part of the cleanup effort.

The 11th annual Tetherow Breast Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament will be held Tuesday at Tetherow Resort in Bend—featuring a nine‐hole, four‐person scramble starting at 10 a.m. A social lunch with awards will follow at 12:30 p.m. to support St. Charles Foundation’s Sara’s Project.

ODFW reported strong fall fishing across Central Oregon this weekend with good catches expected for trout—steelhead and crappie along the lower Deschutes and Ochoco Reservoir, among other waters.

Anglers should check local advisories for cyanobacteria and follow guidelines before seasonal closures begin later in October.

Caldera football claimed its first win of the season on Thursday evening when a two-point safety gave them an 8-7 victory over Redmond in a game marked by turnovers and penalties— the team will play on the road next Friday against Mountain View.

The undefeated Summit football team beat Ridgeview 35-14 Friday night—keeping them atop the district standings.

They will play Bend next week to try and secure the conference title.

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

Fall Foot Races

8 AM – 12 PM — Riverbend Park — Various entry fees — Celebrate fall in Central Oregon with races for all runners, including a half marathon, 10k, and kid's run.

Life in the Forest Canopy

7-8 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — Free entry — Discover the secrets of the forest canopy with expert insights on biodiversity and ecological balance.

Elton Dan & the Rocket Band

8-11 p.m. — Volcanic Theatre Pub — Ticketed event — Super-fan Dan and his Rocket Band bring to life the iconic hits from Elton John's early albums.

Live Music with Dave LiaBraaten

7-9 p.m. — Currents at the Riverhouse — Free entry — Experience dynamic performances of classic rock, pop, and acoustic favorites by Bend's own Dave LiaBraaten.

"You Are Loved" Mural Painting

Join us for a fun day of painting - a new 25-foot "You Are Loved" mural is going up and we need your help! Bring your friends and enthusiasm - we'll provide the supplies and refreshments - no experience needed.

Not’Cho Grandma’s Bingo

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free – $14 — High energy FUNdraising bingo that guarantees a great experience in Central Oregon.

2025 BOW Annual BootCamp Sessions

9:00 – 11:30 AM — Volcanic Theatre Pub — Tickets start at $30 — Experience the thrill of the outdoor industry pitch contest and witness emerging brands compete for cash awards.

Bend Venture Conference 2025

12:30 PM – 5:00 PM — Tower Theatre — Check the website for pricing — Engage with innovative startups and connect with industry leaders at this renowned entrepreneurial event.

Next Stop Comedy Showcase

7:30-9 p.m. — Bridge 99 Brewery — Tickets may apply — Enjoy a night filled with laughter featuring a fresh line-up of stand-up comedians.

Sam Bush Live Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Tower Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience the unique blend of bluegrass and progressive sounds from the iconic Sam Bush.