Good morning, Bend.

Bend-La Pine Schools has used Magic School.AI for two years to give teachers and students tools for planning and feedback—while training them on safe and responsible use.

Local schools like Cascades Academy and Crook County Schools are developing guidelines and training programs so that AI boosts learning without replacing critical thinking.

New SNAP rules will take effect on November 1—raising work requirements to 80 hours a month for able-bodied adults without dependents and cutting benefits for those who do not meet the criteria.

The state estimates over 313,000 Oregonians will need re-screening, and officials are mobilizing to help those affected while counties cannot waive the rules due to low unemployment.

The government shutdown, which began Oct.

1, has led to some federal workers being furloughed and others working without pay, potentially straining programs like transportation and nutrition assistance in Central Oregon. If the shutdown lasts longer than a month, regional spending and job growth may suffer—local experts warn that rural communities could feel the impact most acutely.

Since the federal shutdown began last week, thousands of U.S. Forest Service employees were furloughed—delaying prescribed burns that help reduce wildfire risks in Central Oregon.

Senator Ron Wyden warned that continued staffing issues may further postpone the burns and raise concerns over future wildfire threats.

Christine Greene and her partner Levi have been forced to move several times from BLM land as they struggle with homelessness and limited treatment for drug use—affordable housing and detox beds remain in short supply.

Their story reflects broader challenges in the region with high housing costs and scarce addiction services.

Many Oregonians will see health insurance premiums rise starting in January, with individual plans increasing by nearly 10% and small business plans by 11.5%.

State officials said rising medical inflation, drug costs and expiring federal credits are driving these increases—families in rural areas and middle-income groups may face larger jumps if new subsidies are not approved.

A new report shows that one in six first-time buyers in Bend cannot afford a home because rising income inequality and a shortage of housing units are pushing prices higher.

City leaders say they will build more units in the coming years — although progress remains slower than needed to meet demand.

Today, Oregon Ducks legends Anthony Newman and George Wrightster and reporter Aaron Fentress previewed the No. 3 Ducks’ home game against No. 7 Indiana at Autzen Stadium — they noted a key quarterback showdown that could affect the Heisman race.

Bulletin readers voted Brooklyn Fobi of Bend High volleyball and Jettson Gillam of Mountain View football as Athletes of the Week for Sept.

29-Oct. 4—Fobi recorded 11 kills, 13 digs and two aces in a win over Roseburg while Gillam caught four passes and made a sack in Mountain View’s win over Crook County.

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

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.

Stayin Alive - Bee Gees Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Tower Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the excitement of a full Bee Gees playlist with stunning visuals and heartfelt performances.

Step Into the Ice Age

3-4 p.m. — Redmond Library — Free admission — Discover Ice Age archaeology with engaging activities and insights from an experienced archaeologist.

Live Music Friday: Brenna Larsen

7-9 p.m. — Currents at the Riverhouse — Free entry — Experience heartfelt folk melodies and jazz-infused grooves by Portland’s rising star, Brenna Larsen, in a scenic riverside setting.

Watkins Glen Halloween Dance Party

8-9:30 p.m. — Volcanic Theatre Pub — $23.53 — Experience a groovy Halloween celebration with YAK ATTACK and WATKINS GLEN paying tribute to the music of 1975.

Home Design Workshop at Wild Ride Brewing

12-2 p.m. — Wild Ride Brewing — Paid tickets include a free gift — Unleash your creativity by designing mood boards and receiving expert decor tips.