Hundreds of fire crews and good weather worked in tandem to help bring both the Black Crater and Maxwell fires under control.  However, weekend weather may present concerns.      The Black Crater Fire, that started July 23 after a lightning strike in the 3 Sisters Wilderness, is now at 9,000 acres and 40 percent contained as of Wednesday, August 2. Structure firefighters and their equipment no longer dominate the streets of the once-evacuated subdivisions of Tollgate, ... [full story]

The Bend City Council branched out at its last meeting on July 31, debating whether or not there is a need to create additional tree protection regulations. The ordinance, proposed by City Councilor John Hummel, would be the first of its kind to affect both undeveloped and an individual homeowner’s land.    “I think it was the intention of the council to address the concern from people that too many trees were being removed for development, ... [full story]

Oregon nanotechnology efforts receive Appropriations Committee funding approval   Senators Ron Wyden and Gordon Smith have announced that the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee has approved millions of dollars in funding for defense-related projects in Oregon, including significant funding for a number of Oregon nanotechnology projects through the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI).  Three Central Oregon businesses are slated to receive a total of $9 million if the FY2007 Defense spending bill is approved by the full ... [full story]

When Chad and Stephanie Zirkle opened their business, Dealin’ In Signs, they had no idea it would boom so quickly.  They also didn’t realize how hard it would be to find employees when they were ready to grow.  However, like many businesses around the city they are feeling the growing pains of finding qualified applicants even though they are offering a competitive salary and willing to train. “We’ve talked to a couple employment offices, temporary ... [full story]

People already experiencing pangs of pain at pump prices, may again be feeling it as they drive down potentially bumpier roads around Bend.  Due to the increased cost of oil, Bend Public Works will have to reduce the number of roads that get repaired this year. “Essentially it is because of our suppliers.  All of their costs have gone up," said Brandon Raz, the street supervisor for Bend Public Works. “The shipping costs have gone ... [full story]

A Trip Into The Past I often wonder what it would be like to have lived in Oregon millions of years ago. Every time I visit the John Day Fossil Beds I get a better idea. I can picture the saber-toothed cat waiting patiently behind a giant redwood tree as the group of oreodonts makes their way closer to a stream for a drink. As one of the smaller sheep-like creatures separates from the group, the cat ... [full story]

When making the choice between going for it and laying up, many factors go into the decision.  The smarter you are about your decision, the better your results will be.  Examine all the variables involved in the shot, not just whether or not you can hit the ball the required distance.      Photos by Paul Nasri You might want to lay up if:*You have a poor or uneven lie.*There is wind in your face.*The shot requires you to ... [full story]

Q: We're in our early 50s. Neither of us will receive a pension. We've been married only 10 years. We both have been contributing to our 401(k) retirement plans for only 10 years, so we probably have a total of only $60,000 together.  We live in a nice 12-year-old home on a nice street in an older suburb of Detroit. Our home has probably not appreciated in value at all in the five years we've lived ... [full story]

Few things offer a greater sense of accomplishment than designing, building or customizing a home to your specific desires.  Done properly, a home can offer decades of enjoyment to you and your family - with little or no need for major updating or improvements.     The exterior details are some of the most important aesthetic and value-influencing aspects of the home. Photo by Western Red Cedar Lumber Association With so many necessary decisions however, it's often easy ... [full story]

During the week, there were 14 reports of vehicle break-ins with an estimated $7,245 in items stolen. Of the 14, 10 vehicles were unlocked. There were also 2 bicycles reported stolen with an estimated value of $620. DUII arrests totaled 2, and there were 15 Warrant arrests made. §         7/26. Four different builders (Diamond Builders, Cross Country Builders, Pahlish Homes, Five Brothers Construction) reported thefts from 4 different job sites. Items taken included tools, a door, ... [full story]