Bend Local Frequency: Spring Fire Safety, New Leadership, and Community Updates

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Wednesday, April 29th.Kicking off today with some proactive fire safety moves that keep our forests thriving and wildfire risks low. Firefighters from the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District are igniting up to 200 acres on the Flank 1 Prescribed Burn, just 15 miles southeast of Bend near Forest Service Road 18. Over on the Sisters side, expect up to 366 acres burning on SAFR units three miles southwest of town, starting around 9:30 a.m. if conditions cooperate. These controlled burns mimic natural fire cycles, clearing out fuels and boosting forest health, so drivers on those roads stay alert for smoke and crews but rest easy knowing its all part of protecting our backyard playgrounds.In other big news, Bend Fire and Rescue has a fresh face leading prevention efforts. Drew Whyte stepped in as deputy chief and fire marshal back in February, bringing his expertise to sharpen our communitys safety net just as we head into peak season. Hell be key in keeping response times swift and education programs strong for families hitting the trails.Shifting to community vibes, tonight from 5 to 7 p.m., head to Bend Brewing Company for the Deschutes Trails Coalitions volunteer expo. Its your chance to dive into trail building, maintenance, and events that make our world-class path network even better. Whether youre a hiker, biker, or just love giving back, connect with crews shaping the adventures we all cherish, and maybe snag some brews while youre at it.Retail fans, mark this: Bend Factory Stores is rebranding to Elevation Bend, with a grand unveiling soon and the debut Elevation Farmers Market rolling out fresh local produce, crafts, and eats. It means more vibrant shopping and farm-fresh finds right here, boosting our makers and your weekends.On the civic front, today is the deadline to register to vote or switch party affiliations ahead of Decision 2026, so if you havent updated your info, hop online or call it in to stay in the game for local races that shape our streets and schools.And for smoother drives, the City of Bend is gearing up for 4.5 million in street preservation this season, tackling 68 lane miles with paving, chip seals, slurries, and micro-paving. Check the city map to see your road on the list, meaning fewer potholes and safer commutes for everyone.This has been Bend Local Frequency. Well see you tomorrow with more local updates.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AIThis episode includes AI-generated content.