Source Weekly July 3, 2025

The Source Weekly 704 NW Georgia Ave., Bend, OR 97703 t. 541-383-0800

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On the Cover: Illustration by Jennifer Galler. This zany and wild scene was inspired by the popular childrens's puzzle book, "Where's Waldo." This concept depicts a multitude of both actual and theoretical ideas proposed for the development of American's "Freedom Cities."

Call for Artists: If you're interested in being a SW featured artist, email: production@bendsource.com.

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nicole Vulcan - nicole@bendsource.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Nic Moye - editor@bendsource.com

FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

Peter Madsen - peter@layitoutfoundation.org

REPORTER / CALENDAR EDITOR

Maddie Franz - calendar@bendsource.com

COPY EDITOR

Richard Sitts

FREELANCERS

Jared Rasic, Damian Fagan, Donna Britt, Julie Hanney, Al Olson, Christine Bell, Julie Furnas, Kimberly Bowker, Bill Forman, Burt Gershater, Dr. Jane Guyn, Josh Jardine, Nick Tarter, Katey Trnka

SYNDICATED CONTENT

Rob Brezsney, Brendan Emmett Quigley, Jen Sorensen, Pearl Stark, Tom Tomorrow, Matt Wuerker

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EDITOR’S NOTE:

Our Ballot Issue is finally here! Make sure you (and your family and friends) give a BIG shout-out to your FAVORITE local businesses, services and workers to catapult them to the top of the ballot! Voting is open for two weeks. Winners are announced Aug. 21.

We also take a look at the idea of Freedom Cities and what it would mean for Central Oregon if they are allowed to happen. Plus, previews of Tab Benoit, Bryan Bielanski, Allah-Las, the Rusty Frets, the Cascade Equinox, Femme Forward and a special Nashville night. Enjoy!

— Managing Editor, Nic Moye

LIGHTMETER:

PRESENTED BY HARVEST MOON WOODWORKS

Thanks to Instagram user @nickraz00 for capturing this quiet neighborhood moment and very sweet canine friend.

We want to share your photo! Tag @sourceweekly or email info@sourceweekly.com for a chance to be featured.

@nickraz00 IG

CUSTOM. CABINE TS

l king for the best LUNCH in town? best falafel?

In Shutdown of Federal Lands Sale, a Win for Public Process — But Perhaps Not Public Lands

Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah got stars in his eyes. What if all of the purported housing woes felt in places like St. George, Utah, and Bend, Oregon, could be alleviated by simply selling off millions of acres of land owned and managed by the American people? Better yet, wouldn’t it be great to rid those lands of the onerous burdens of environmental and land-use regulations to do so!

The notion of selling off public lands in the interest of “housing” has gotten a lot of attention over the last several weeks, after Lee added language to the “Big Beautiful Bill” that is expected to be voted upon, ironically, this Independence Day. On its face, it seemed like a Republican dream: make up for the trillions they’ll be adding to the deficit by selling off the “useless” land around some of the West’s most desirable areas — and do it without regulations.

Except, many who might be assumed to appreciate this idea, decidedly did not. The language that would have allowed such sales of public lands was stripped out of the “Big Beautiful Bill” by the Senate parliamentarian last week. Around the same time, members of Congress, including Oregon’s Cliff Bentz, came out against the proposal. So did a number of others, including ranchers and the public-lands advocacy group, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers — both entities that regularly make use of our public lands for things like grazing and hunting. Ranchers, hunters and anglers have enjoyed the use of vast swaths of land for decades, and they’re not likely to give up a perk like that so easily. Also opposed to the sale are various environmental groups, who advocate for wild places and maintaining wildlife habitat.

Bentz has gotten a lot of press — and plenty of kudos — this week for coming out against the willy-nilly sale

of the lands put in trust to the American people, but that stance came with caveats. In his statement regarding his opposition, Bentz said he supports the sale of public lands — but only when it comes with an appropriate process.

“I do support and encourage sale or exchange of parcels of federal land when there is a clear economic or social demand for such disposition, and when that disposition follows appropriate procedure and is generally supported by those affected,” Bentz wrote in a June 25 statement. “I include congressional action as an appropriate procedure. I do not support a mandated disposition of millions of acres of federal land, the amount of which was arbitrarily established, the primary goal not being to respond to demand, but instead being the removal of land from federal ownership.”

To summarize: those in support of this proposal have thus far given the public no assurances that the lands that could be up for sale in some 11 Western states would actually, as advertised, be used for homeownership. With the rushed process that we’ve seen thus far, it’s just as likely that they would be sold to the highest bidder for anything from private resource extraction to mega-wealthy retreats. Public process, as Bentz advocated for, would at least slow the process down enough to get more people involved in the decision-making. That is how democracy is supposed to work.

While the broader “One Big Beautiful” bill still offers plenty for people to worry about — not the least of which is the prospect of millions losing health care under Medicaid — we’ll take our wins where we can get them. The fight for our public lands is one to be fought another day — ideally with a lot more discussion and regulation.

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your thoughts to editor@bendsource.com. Letters must be received by noon Friday for inclusion in the following week’s paper. Please limit letters to 250 words. Submission does not guarantee publication. Opinions printed here do not constitute an editorial endorsement of said opinions. Letter of the week receives $5 to Palate!

DISPLAY OF ASSAULT AT LA PINE RODEO

I’ve only attended one rodeo in my life—and I left disgusted by the blatant display and celebration of animal abuse. I didn’t think much more about it until several people close to me, driven by their deep compassion for animals, began actively speaking out on behalf of rodeo victims.

Recently, I learned about an especially disturbing event at the La Pine Rodeo—an event so extreme it isn’t even sanctioned by the PRCA (an organization that already permits electric prods, spurs, and the brutal treatment of calves). This event is called “wild cow milking.”

The term “wild” is used because these mother cows are not accustomed to human handling, let alone being forcibly milked in a rodeo arena. These are mothers who have just given birth. They are ripped away from their babies, loaded into trucks, and hauled to a chaotic, noisy arena. There, they are chased down by male rodeo contestants, restrained by several men—one holding her head, another pulling her tail— while someone else hurriedly milks her for time.

This isn’t sport. This isn’t entertainment. This is a violation. If this doesn’t qualify as assault, what does?

—Gordon Cumming

DOOMED TO REPEAT HISTORY

A few days ago, the Trump Administration attacked the country of Iran. The U.S. is now an active participant in yet another war in the Middle East.

At age 51, I'm beginning to feel like the main character in the movie, "Groundhogs Day," living the same thing over and over. In my adult lifetime, each Republican President has initiated military action and war in the Middle East. Each Republican President has left the mess for others to clean up long after the fact.

The rest of this becomes predictable. The "You are with us or you’re with the terrorist" rhetoric comes next, pushing any critical thinking about this to the fringes where it can be safely ignored. The informal censorship created by media mongers and message manipulators seeking to create a groundswell of public support for war will silence reasonable and reasoned voices and opinion about U.S. military action and the U.S. leaders making the decisions about the how, what, and why the U.S. military engages in combat operations. Queue the patriotic music and prepare to be labeled a traitor for asking "why."

Mission accomplished, right?

Before all of this happens, I just want to ask some questions. How many people will be injured or killed because of this escalation of war? Civilians, non-combatants, Israeli soldiers, Iranian soldiers, US soldiers, soldiers and civilians from other countries? How many people will suffer and die until the governments of the USA, Israel, and Iran do what they were always going to have to do from the very beginning: sit down and talk?

Or is a nuclear "solution" on the table now? In theory, a tactical nuclear strike would end the war and cause Iran's unconditional surrender like Japan in WWII but would irradiate access to a large portion of the world's oil supply. That is just bad for business.

World history shows that war tends to be caused by one or more of the following: economics, land acquisition, or the ego of rulers clinging to power. Technology has made war easier, increasingly deadly, and profitable. There is no profit in dissent, in questioning, in critical thinking when it comes to war.

It is often said those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Here we go again.

—Jason J. Herring

PROTECTING PUBLIC LAND

Americans love Smokey Bear. All of us love him. Parents, kids, grandparents, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Indigenous Americans, European Americans. All of us love Smokey Bear and the Public Lands Smokey Bear protects. Smokey taught us since we were kids to respect and protect our Public Lands. Now Trump wants to sell our Public Lands. On this issue, like so many others, Donald Trump has gone completely Benedict Arnold on the American public.

To offset tax breaks for the wealthy in his Big Beautiful Bill, Trump plans to sell off our Public Lands. These lands represent our shared American heritage. They are important to our culture and to the economy of so many great American places, including the great state of Oregon. It is an embarrassment that Eastern Oregon's Representative Cliff Bentz, in an act of blind fealty to Traitor Trump, voted in favor of selling our heritage to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. Trump’s billionaire friends rely on the hard-working middle class to create the profits that make them rich. It is past time for the wealthy to give more back in the form of paying higher taxes on their income and wealth, instead

of taking away public spaces and places Americans have protected and enjoyed for generations.

—Ken Brinich

ON BEING AMERICAN

In 5th grade, we had a long-term substitute teacher who was a Navy veteran. With the 5th grade curriculum including American history and America’s Bicentennial celebration coming that July 4th, this teacher taught us much that instilled a strong sense of patriotism. One day in particular stands out. He wore his Navy uniform to school and taught us how to properly handle and fold an American flag. He taught by example, folding in silent reverence for the stars and stripes and for what the flag represents. That moment remains sacred in my memory. At a time when the American flag and the democratic principles it represents are being usurped and disrespected by the people who we entrusted to guard them, I wonder what I can do as a citizen to save this flag and our country. I questioned how going to a protest would matter, but I went to Bend’s No Kings march anyway. As it turns out, being with so many people who are feeling what I feel, seeing their clever signs, and shouting, “This is what democracy looks like!!,” as one voice, energized me. So, WHAT CAN WE DO? All of us must engage our uniquely human capacity to think critically! Fine, watch FOX News, but also read and watch the news from many

other sources. Listen to and read many opinions. Remember what your mom, dad, other elders, and great teachers in your lives have instilled in you as right, decent, and kind as well as what is wrong and criminal. Engage your mind, heart, and intuition to analyze, reflect, decide, and act. What’s at stake are our human rights and a free country defined and protected by our unique constitution!

—Tomoko Harada Ferguson

Letter of the Week:

Transportation Bill Dies: Oregon Transit Association says cuts are inevitable

State lawmakers adjourned the 2025 session without passing House Bill 2025, the Oregon Transportation Reinvestment Package. The Democrat-backed bill was proposed to balance the needs of transportation users across the state, including those who ride transit. The Oregon Transit Association says it’s deeply disappointed about the outcome, stating in a news release, “The financial challenges that transit agencies face are not going away. Without strong action by the Oregon Legislature to protect transit service, tens of thousands of Oregonians will lose access to reliable public transportation.” OTA says it's hopeful that lawmakers can build on negotiations and approve stable, sufficient funding for transit in a future session.

In the session’s final moments, House Republicans didn’t provide enough votes to fast-track a last-ditch effort to raise gas taxes by three cents per gallon.

According to OTA, the cost of operating a transit vehicle increased by more than 50% from 2019 to 2024. The Covid-19 pandemic changed Oregonians’ work habits and travel patterns. OTA says without action from the state legislature, widespread service cuts are inevitable.

In a news release, Gov. Tina Kotek stated, “The legislature adjourned two days before Constitutional Sine Die without meeting even the basic needs of our transportation system. I will be huddling with my team today to start planning for next steps.” Kotek could call a special session like she did last year to address wildfire funding.

Nic Moye

Hundreds Answer the River's Call Volunteers dive into the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council’s 29th annual cleanup

By Sarah Isak-Goode

Hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers gathered Saturday along the Deschutes River for the 29th annual Deschutes River Cleanup, hosted by the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council. This beloved community event was an all-ages opportunity for locals to show their love of the river through handson restoration and care.

—How

Outdoor Quilt Show is celebrating this year.

“Sorry, that’s my pig, George.”

—Miles Michaud, singer and guitarist in the band, Allah-Las, in Sound.

The monumental effort covers six sections and nearly 30 winding miles of the majestic Deschutes River. In La Pine, volunteers collected trash and invasive weeds from the riverbank. Many were genuinely surprised to learn that what looks like a cheerful, bright flower – the Orange hawkweed – is actually a highly noxious and destructive plant. Volunteers wore thick protective gloves and filled heavy bags to their brims with the troublesome weeds.

In Sunriver, volunteers balanced on paddleboards and rowed out in sturdy boats for their challenging task, which involved pulling unsightly trash from both the river and the riparian areas. In previous years, volunteers have discovered a range of surprising items, including rusty beer cans, colorful flipflops and forgotten sunglasses scattered throughout the water. Interesting finds included several cell phones, a witch's hat, a Santa hat and (ironically) a trash grabber.

Keeping the river clean is crucial for countless reasons. Kolleen Miller, the knowledgeable education and development director with UDWC, explained: "The overall health of our beautiful river and the exceptional quality of water in the river also contribute to groundwater quantity as well as quality, so it's really important whenever we're talking about

that people do know that the Deschutes River is truly unique and it's significant to think about the vital intersection between groundwater and surface water throughout our entire expansive watershed."

Like in La Pine, volunteers in Bend removed trash and invasive weeds from the overgrown riverbank. They were also joined by 12 volunteer scuba divers who worked with volunteer boaters to collect submerged trash from the murky river. The chilly water, which one experienced diver said was between a brisk 60 and 64 degrees, can pose real dangers for eager volunteers. Leaders from Central Oregon Diving stressed the critical importance of safety in a talk before the launch. The Deschutes County Search and Rescue Foundation was also strategically positioned onsite in case of any emergency.

Several other groups contributed to make the massive event successful, including Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, who loaned out essential gear, as well as the City of Bend and the Oregon Department of Agriculture, which provided valuable training on identifying noxious weeds.

Speaking to the enthusiastic crowd at the Deschutes River Cleanup, UDWC Executive Director Kris Knight said, "This is definitely one of our biggest and most exciting events of the year, but our amazing Watershed Council is really doing important work to take care of the river 365 days out of the year."

Since 1996, the UDWC has worked to protect and restore the massive 2,000,000-acre upper Deschutes River watershed through innovative collaborative projects in habitat restoration, comprehensive watershed education and long-term monitoring.

Downtown Axe-Throwing Spot to Shut its Doors

Unofficial Logging Co. is set to have its last day on July 2

By Julianna LaFollette

Alocal axe-throwing bar, Unofficial Logging Co., announced Monday evening that it will close its downtown Bend taphouse after July 2. The taphouse, located on the corner of Greenwood Avenue and NW Harriman Street, cited a series of challenges since the pandemic.

The bar opened in 2019, offering axe-throwing, 18 taps of craft beer and a full kitchen. The spot also offered a mobile axe-throwing trailer for events. According to owner John Heylin, the mobile axe-throwing is still available, just not on site at its Greenwood Avenue location.

According to a Facebook post announcing the closure, the crew aimed to create a place where people could gather, laugh and connect. But, just a few months after opening, the pandemic started and almost forced them to shut down.

From there, a series of challenges came along that “never seemed to stop,” according to Heylin.

“After COVID came the lumber crisis, with prices tripling overnight. Then we faced staffing shortages that never really let up. Then inflation. Then tariffs. And now, in 2025, economic uncertainty is the new normal. People are tightening their budgets,” Heylin wrote.

While attempting to do everything they could to stay afloat, sales are down 40% from the year before.

“We’ve done everything we could to stay afloat, but this year our sales are down 40% from the year before. That isn’t a marketing issue or a temporary slump. It’s a signal that something deeper is happening. Axe throwing is fun, but when compared to food, rent, health care, or insurance, it’s a luxury. And luxuries just don’t survive in economies like this one.”

In the press release, Heylin shared that the taphouse also hosted concerts, fundraisers, first dates, weddings, baby showers, festivals and other community gatherings. In addition, the press release stated, the bar has contributed more than $5 million into the local economy over the last six years.

Before the downturn, Heylin told the Source, the bar employed about 12 to 15 part-time and full-time employees. As it’s been struggling, they’ve had to close the kitchen and lose their back of house staff. As of July 1, Unofficial Logging Co. employed about seven people.

In May, following the closure of long-standing restaurant 900 Wall, the Source spoke with several restaurant owners in downtown Bend, who reported a drop-off in customers in recent months.

Local restaurants like The Jackalope Grill and Wild Rose, among others, said rising costs associated with dining out were resulting in fewer overall customers.

Others felt that increased traffic concerns, and parking constraints, were deterring customers from coming downtown.

Local shop Wild Petals Provisions also reported seeing a decline in customers back in May.

Some restaurants and business owners were hopeful that summer would improve their sales, with more customers coming in.

While Wild Petals is still seeing local customers come into the shop, Owner Nancy Zadoff told the Source, people aren’t spending like they used to. Last month was the second month of not meeting last year’s numbers.

by

“After COVID came the lumber crisis, with prices tripling overnight. Then we faced staffing shortages that never really let up. Then inflation. Then tariffs. And now, in 2025, economic uncertainty is the new normal. People are tightening their budgets.”

—Unofficial Logging Co. Owner John Heylin

She is seeing some tourism, now that it’s summer, but says it’s not the same as previous years.

“I'm not the only person who's in the same position. I'm constantly talking to other small business owners and big business owners and restaurants, just checking in, and things are tight,” she told the Source. “We all have our fingers crossed that, you know, July is going to be a phenomenal, great month for everybody. Not just me, but for everybody.”

While Heylin is disappointed that his business is coming to a close, he hopes things don’t continue trending that way for other business owners.

“Running a small business means you're pretty much dancing with financial ruin almost every other day. It can be stressful and it's a lot of work, but it's rewarding because we like doing it, and we like being a member of the community,” he told the Source on July 1.

“As this continues, and there's probably going to be more closures, just think of the people that started these businesses and be kind to them.”

State Legislature Approves Repeal of Wildfire Map

The Oregon House passed a bill that repeals the state wildfire map. The bill now goes to Gov. Kotek’s desk

By Julianna LaFollette

After continuous calls for a repeal of the statewide wildfire hazard map, the Oregon legislature this week passed Senate Bill 83, which does away with the map and its building code mandates, while directing state agencies to develop new model defensible space standards.

The bill passed 50-1 in the Oregon House, following a Senate approval in April. It now heads to Gov. Tina Kotek’s desk for final signature.

The map, which came out of Senate Bill 762, classifies lots as low-, moderate- or high-hazard zones to educate residents about the wildfire risk in their areas while prioritizing mitigation resources. The map also aims to identify where defensible space and home hardening codes may one day apply.

Earlier this year, concerns about the finalized wildfire hazard map started to gain momentum. Legislators called for a repeal of the map, citing community frustrations. State lawmakers said they hoped to find solutions that balanced the need for fire mitigation strategies, while attempting to alleviate concerns from those whose properties were in “high-hazard” zones.

Local lawmakers have voiced support for a repeal of the map, helping to advance SB 83 to the finish line.

On June 23, Central Oregon Rep. Emerson Levy (D-OR 53), made a motion to pull SB 83 from the House Committee on Rules – where the bill had been sitting since May 28 following the unanimous Senate vote on April 22.

“SB 83 returns control back to our communities. The 2025 Legislative Session is over in six days, and I need to go

back to my community knowing I did everything I could to protect our community from wildfire risks. Repealing the wildfire maps is an important step in advancing our conversation about wildfire safety in this state,” Levy wrote in a press release.

“I urge my colleagues to recognize the regional benefits of SB 83 and pass this common-sense bill when it comes before them for a vote,” said Levy.

In late February, Sen. Anthony Broadman, (D-OR 27), who represents Central Oregon, called for a full repeal of the map, declaring it a distraction from the work the community is already doing on fuels reduction, community hardening and preparation for the fire season.

"I'm a strong believer in the majority of SB 762. [It] has a recipe for mitigation, community hardening and it's going to work, but the maps were clearly a distraction from 90% of SB 762 that is making our community safer," Broadman told the Source Weekly in March.

In Deschutes County alone, there are 21,258 lots classified as high hazard.

When the map was first published in 2022, homeowners across the state worried about its role in increasing insurance premiums. In 2023, the state legislature passed a bill that made it illegal for insurance companies to use the maps for decisions about premiums and coverage.

However, when the Oregon Department of Forestry released the final version of the maps on Jan. 7, those concerns remained. While the state maintains that insurers create their own risk models and maps based on property risk, Central Oregonians continued to report significant premium increases and even coverage retractions in certain areas.

While Broadman saw the need to prepare for the fire season, he said in March that eliminating the maps from the equation could help the state better focus on the budget for fire mitigation work.

"My hope is that we can move quickly to excise the maps from this discussion, again, surgically, so that we can focus on the good work that we've already accomplished, and a lot of the work we need to do moving forward to harden communities and make sure we're fire resilient."

Republican Reactions

“Oregonians desperately need relief from the wildfire hazard maps that have created chaos and fear across rural Oregon. Despite an incredibly frustrating political process, we appreciate the members who have chosen to do the right thing in repealing these maps.”

—House Republican Leader Christine Drazan (R-Canby)

“Today’s vote represents a victory for rural Oregonians by allowing them to protect their homes without the threat of government interference.”

—Rep. Court Boice, (R-Gold Beach)

B O SA’s menu offers regional Italian and French sp ecialties, featuring housemade p asta . The cuisine is seasonally driven and pro duced with the b est lo cal ingredients from the Pacific Nor thwest . Monday - Saturday

1 0 05 NW Galveston Ave

Deschutes County Wants You for Interim Sheriff

En

lieu of Sheriff Kent van der Kamp’s July 31 resignation, county officials are soliciting interim sheriff applications by July 11

By Peter Madsen

Are you still looking for a summer job? Do you have either four years of full-time law enforcement experience, or two years of law enforcement experience and two years of posthigh school education? Are you looking to meet lots of people in a role where every day is different — something temporary, but public-facing and with decent pay?

If you’re 21 or older, live in Deschutes County and can handle intensive on-the-job training, consider your future as Deschutes County’s new interim sheriff.

Don’t dally. The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners requests all application materials by July 11, 5 pm. The BOCC indicated it will name the appointee before July 31.

The job listing was posted this morning, as current Sheriff Kent van der Kamp’s July 31 resignation became binding June 26. As the Interim Sheriff, the appointed person will serve until a new Sheriff is elected and takes office. Per ORS 236.210, those candidates for Sheriff would be listed on the next election cycle’s ballot in May 2026. The new sheriff will be elected that November and will begin their term Jan. 1, 2027.

Once you get the job, get ready for some serious onboarding. Becoming certified to work for the DCSO includes lots of instruction. Crucially, an interim sheriff will spend 16 weeks studying at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, which is operated by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training at its Salem campus. Taking courses remotely is not an option, according to the DPSST. At the DCSO in Bend, the certification process continues. Expect a 30-day orientation phase and 15 weeks of training that happens in three five-week phases, said Jason Carr, the DCSO public information officer. There’s also a twoweek checkout process at the end.

If you’ve followed the tribulations of van der Kamp’s tenure as sheriff, which began when he was elected in November 2024, you’ll know that falsifying details about your education and employment history will come back to bite you — and potentially strip you of your badge.

Serving as the interim sheriff wouldn't bar you from campaigning, too. If fact, this interim job could be a great steppingstone. While county officials couldn’t immediately provide an estimated salary for the interim sheriff, the DCSO said it presently pays Sheriff van der Kamp a $211,000 yearly salary.

While the initial application for interim sheriff entails sending a letter of interest, a résumé and checking a couple boxes, the hiring process is anything but superficial. To begin with, your cover letter — after non-disclosable personal info is redacted — will be published for public scrutiny. Now the stressful part: You’ll be subjected to a comprehensive background check. Questions include: Do you have any tattoos that signify membership in, or affiliation with, a criminal enterprise, street gang, or any group that advocates violence against individuals because of their race, creed, gender, sexual orientation or nation of origin? Have you ever provided alcohol to someone under 21? Have you stolen from an employer or leaked information you weren’t supposed to? Have you ever been in a fight? And are you willing to be truthful under oath, lest you wind up on a Brady list? (OK, that last question isn’t explicitly listed, but it’s definitely a question authorities want a straight answer to.)

Then you’ll pass through psychological, medical and physical fitness evaluations. Not least of which, you’ll be subjected to several in-depth interviews.

On April 8, Deschutes County District Attorney Steve Gunnels placed van der Kamp on the Brady list, which details allegedly dishonest police officers that are banned from giving future testimony, the Source reported. The DA’s Office also publicized its findings that Sheriff van der Kamp made false statements under oath about receiving degrees from the University of Southern California and the University of Arizona. Van der Kamp made these statements while testifying as an expert witness in several criminal cases from 2012 to 2015. The DA’s Office additionally stated that Van der Kamp omitted mention of his previous law enforcement experience at the La Mesa Police Department when he joined the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office in 2004.

The DA's placement of Sheriff van der Kamp on the Brady list caused a snowball effect. On May 22, a DPSST committee voted unanimously to recommend a lifetime revocation of van der Kamp’s police certifications, the Source reported. The DPSST board will review and vote on that recommendation on July 27, regardless of van der Kamp’s employment status, said Sam Tenney, the DPSST communications coordinator.

Oh, don't forget — the new interim sheriff will get to pick out an unmarked vehicle from the existing DCSO fleet!

Visit www.deschutes.org/interimsheriff to apply.

—This story is powered by the Lay It Out Foundation, the nonprofit with a mission of promoting deep reporting and investigative journalism in Central Oregon. Learn more and be part of this important work by visiting layitoutfoundation.org.

Gov. Kotek Vetoes Three Bills

All of the bills were about child welfare

By Nigel Jaquiss, Oregon Journalism Project

Gov. Tina Kotek issued three vetoes on June 24, all for bills related to child welfare and the Oregon Department of Human Services. Kotek has not often used her veto pen because she’s generally in sync with the Democratic supermajorities in both chambers of the Legislature. But one of the governor’s priority bills—House Bill 3835—put her at odds with the chairs of the two policy committees that oversee child welfare.

Capitol insiders tell the Oregon Journalism Project they think the vetoes are a response to two key lawmakers’ opposition to one of Kotek’s top priorities, although nobody will say so on the record.

HB 3835, which Kotek testified on earlier this session, proposed dialing back some of the reforms lawmakers have passed over the past decade in response to shortcomings in the state’s foster care and child welfare system.

Kotek and her allies, including Dr. Ajit Jetmalani, director of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University, argued that new laws went too far and made it difficult for treatment providers to attract and retain workers. They also sought to allow DHS to return to the practice of sending children out of state for treatment.

But Sen. Sara Gelser Blouin (D-Corvallis), chair of the Senate Committee on Human Services; Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Gladstone), chair of the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services; and their allies at Disability Rights Oregon, opposed the bill, arguing that it would put children at risk by loosening protections.

The bill got hearings before Hartman’s committee and House Rules, but despite the governor’s unusual step of testifying in favor of it personally, the bill stalled in the Joint Ways and Means Committee, where it will likely die.

That’s the backdrop for Kotek’s veto of House Bill 3795, whose chief sponsor was Hartman. That bill would require DHS to report to the Legislature on tax preparation services and, more importantly, would change the trigger for activating DHS’s Child Incident Review team.

In her veto letter, Kotek said the latter requirement would further complicate the department’s work without clear benefit. The Governor made similar arguments in vetoing Senate Bill 736 (which passed both chambers unanimously) and Senate Bill 875, which modified the Oregon Foster Children's Bill of Rights and Sibling Bill of Rights in ways Kotek said “exemplify the risks of fragmented policymaking.”

The Senate made the rare move of overriding Kotek’s veto of SB 875, as Oregon Public Broadcasting first reported, but rather than joining in that override, the House voted to table the bill. The Senate also took up SB 736, but rather than override it, voted instead to table that measure as well. That leaves both bills in limbo—an override for either must get affirmative votes in both chambers.

Sen. Gelser Blouin declined to speculate why Kotek issued the vetoes. “I can’t speak for somebody else,” she says. Hartman could not immediately be reached for comment.

Kotek spokeswoman Elisabeth Shepard denies the governor nixed the bills in retribution for the failure of her priority bill.

“The governor’s rationale for the vetoes are self-evident in the letters,” Shepard said in an email.

35 Cent Minimum Wage Increase Presents Mixed Challenge

Small businesses face pressure while workers see modest relief in high-cost Central Oregon

By Sarah Isak-Goode

On July 1, the minimum wage in Deschutes County increased from $14.70 to $15.05 per hour.

An hourly increase of 35 cents could be challenging for some small businesses. With 9 out of 10 restaurants being small businesses and most paying minimum wage to food service workers, the increase can significantly impact whether the restaurant stays open. If the restaurant remains open, it will face labor shortages, like others in the hospitality industry.

This restaurant industry challenge is part of a larger pattern across service sectors that rely heavily on lower-wage workers. The hospitality industry, which includes restaurants, hotels, and food service, is actually the biggest employer of minimum wage workers in the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, these employees make up nearly 25% of the 30.2 million U.S. jobs that pay less than $15 per hour. Retail comes in as another major minimum wage employer, with cashiers, sales associates, and stock workers often starting at or near the minimum wage. These two industries combined employ millions of Americans who are directly affected by wage increases like the one in Deschutes County.

Like many retail businesses, The House of Hash in La Pine starts its budtenders at minimum wage. When asked what he thinks about the upcoming increase, House of Hash employee Chris Ellsworth said, "It's great! In my opinion, the more money we make, the better it is for the industry. We can try more product and give more thoughts. Customers really appreciate it."

Ellsworth's enthusiasm reflects the original intent of minimum wage: to stimulate the economy and provide basic wages. Started in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt with the Fair Labor Standards Act, minimum wage laws also sought to protect workers from poor working conditions and excessively low wages. The idea was pretty straightforward—when workers have more money in their pockets, they spend it on goods and services, which helps boost the overall economy.

Today, Oregon continues this tradition of worker protection through automatic adjustments. According to Bureau of Labor and Industries, Oregon's minimum wage is set to increase annually according to inflation. While minimum wage has been aligned with inflation rates, it does not accurately reflect the cost of living in Deschutes County.

While the policy sounds reasonable on paper, the real-world impact shows just how small this increase really is. From the worker's perspective, this 35-cent increase comes to less than the average cost of one gallon of gas or one fast food meal per day.

This modest increase seems even smaller when compared to the broader cost of living in Deschutes County. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in La Pine is $1,400; in Redmond, it is $1,506, and in Bend, it is $1,696. According to a recent study by the Source, people in Redmond and Bend pay an average of $599 to $721 per month just for utilities, health insurance, and car insurance.

Considering that a single minimum wage earner will earn about $2,000 per month in take-home pay, this leaves very little room for much else. In fact, a minimum wage earner in Redmond could go into debt by paying their basic bills.

Journalist Jonathan Bach explored this issue in his book, "High Desert, Higher Costs: Bend and the Housing Crisis in the American West," examining how various factors have driven up home prices and made things increasingly difficult for longtime residents. The housing crisis doesn't just hurt individual families, either— it causes major staffing problems as businesses can't find

Considering that a single minimum wage earner will earn about $2,000 per month in take-home pay, this leaves very little room for much else. In fact, a minimum wage earner in Redmond could go into debt by paying their basic bills.

workers who can actually afford to live nearby. Only a tiny percentage of people working in Bend can actually buy homes here, which creates a bigger divide between the haves and have-nots. This also puts even more pressure on things like schools and hospitals that are already stretched thin across Deschutes County.

These financial pressures have expanded the minimum wage policy beyond its original scope. Originally, minimum wage was meant to stop employers from taking advantage of workers and make sure people could afford the basics like food, rent, and clothing. Over time, lawmakers have started using minimum wage increases to tackle bigger problems like poverty, the growing gap between rich and poor, and helping working families feel more financially secure.

Locals like Rachel Brown see this challenge firsthand, explaining: "It's nearly impossible to survive in Bend with a non-tipped, minimum wage job—especially if you don't have roommates or shared income. A person living alone in Bend, working only one job would live paycheck to paycheck at best. Minimum wage doesn’t keep up with the cost of living. High cost of living areas (like Bend) need to have higher wages across the board so that people can live, not just survive."

REDMOND NEWS

Annual Music on The Green Event Kicks Off Summer in Redmond

The long-running community festival takes place through Sept. 3 at American Legion Park

By Julianna LaFollette

Redmond’s annual summer concert series, Music on the Green, kicked off on June 25, with several more shows on the horizon. This year, the concert series will take place at a new venue – American Legion Park – while still offering the same family-friendly, block party atmosphere.

The concerts take place on alternating Wednesday evenings, starting at 5:30pm, through Sept. 3. The event, which is one of the longest-running community festivals in Central Oregon, offers a wide variety of musical acts for locals and visitors to enjoy, including The HWY 97 Band, Wildland Blues Band and Rubbah Tree, among others. The event is free and ADA accessible.

The Redmond Chamber of Commerce started the concert series nearly 30 years ago, according to Chamber Director Eric Sande. While the series originally took place in downtown Redmond, where the Chamber is currently located, in recent years the Chamber relocated the event to Sam Johnson Park before moving it to its new location.

Attendees are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs for the casual community event, which offers more than just music. People can enjoy a variety of tasty local food, drinks, desserts and several craft vendors. Some vendors include The Loco Lemon, Kona Ice, Little Brickhouse Bakery, Roman’s Island BBQ and more.

Year after year, the event has been an anticipated community gathering that brings locals together, according to Sande.

“It’s really an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy some great music. It’s open to families and individuals to come together. It just kind of builds that sense of community, that sense of place, which is so important,” Sande told the Source.

“When a community is growing as fast as Redmond, you want to still know your neighbors, and this is a great way to get together and connect with your community. It’s a great way to kick summer off and enjoy, again, that sense of place and sense of community that Redmond is so known for.”

Music lineup for Music on the Green:

• July 9: The HWY 97 Band

• July 23: Wildland Blues Band

• Aug. 6: Rubbah Tree

• Aug. 20: Cheyenne West Band

• Sept. 3: Hokule’a Ohana

2025 Music on the Green 5:30pm

American Legion Park

850 SW Rimrock Way, Redmond

https://www.visitredmondoregon.com/music-on-thegreen/#!event-register/2025/6/25/2025-music-on-the-green Free

4TH OF JULY PARADE

LIVELY FESTIVITIES DOWNTOWN

A celebration of community and connection and one of Redmond’s favorite traditions. Bring your friends, family and neighbors and enjoy the floats, music and general festive atmosphere! Fri., July 4, 10am-midnight in Downtown Redmond. 446 SW 7th St., Redmond. Free.

TUESDAY 7/8

CANTASTIC BARREL RACE

SPEED, SKILL AND GRIT AT THE RODEO GROUNDS

Hosted by the Oregon Barrel Racing Association, this is a high-speed rodeo event where horse and rider race around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. It's sure to be an exciting afternoon cheering on elite equine and human athletes. Tue., July 8, 4-7pm at Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond.

*No

Farm Fresh Produce, Meat, Honey & Artisanal Breads

Farm Fresh Produce, Meat, Honey & Artisanal Breads

Handmade Goods & Unique Crafts

Handmade Goods & Unique Crafts

Family Fun & Community Connections

Family Fun & Community Connections

We Accept SNAP Benefits

We Accept SNAP Benefits

Centennial Park

725 SW Evergreen Ave Redmond, OR

Freedom Cities: Deregulating “The American Dream”

As policy groups push for less-regulated “Freedom Cities” on public lands, with some outside of Bend and Redmond, locals grapple with the idea of public land sales

By Julianna LaFollette

Revitalization. Prosperity. Innovation.

These are all words some policy groups have used to describe a concept they’re calling “Freedom Cities” — an idea that proposes to create new urban districts on underutilized public lands. The idea, in concept, is that the areas would allow for accelerated and affordable housing, as well as advancements in manufacturing, energy and technology, without traditional regulations. Several groups have identified lands outside of Bend and Redmond as key areas for these new cities, considering the region’s proximity to jobs and established infrastructure, and its ongoing housing affordability issues.

In May 2023, President Donald Trump presented a speech he called, “Quantum Leap,” proposing the creation of up to 10 Freedom Cities on federal lands.

“These Freedom Cities will reopen the frontier, reignite American imagination and give hundreds of thousands of young people and other people, all hard-working families, a new shot at homeownership and, in fact, the American dream,” he said in the video.

Since then, several think-tanks and organizations have begun working to identify where these cities might be located, identifying several parcels of U.S. Bureau of Land Management land outside of Bend and Redmond.

One of the key components of these cities is streamlining middle-class

housing by doing away with certain federal, state and city regulations that groups say, “stifle new construction.”

Proponents of Freedom Cities say the goal would be to waive or streamline National Environmental Policy Act reviews, fast-track permits and push legislation that would offer regulatory opt-out mechanisms and pro-growth building codes.

Organizations like Charter Cities, a nonprofit building the ecosystem for cities that are granted special jurisdiction to create a new governance system, see these less-regulated cities as a way to promote modern manufacturing and technological innovation, supporting advancements in artificial intelligence and biotech research, and “reestablishing the U.S. as a global leader in critical industries.”

With mounting national conversations about the sale of public lands, and key areas targeted for development in Central Oregon, organizations, officials and residents are grappling with what it would mean to sell formerly protected lands to the highest bidder.

Federal Land Sales

Utah Sen. Mike Lee, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee chairman, introduced an amendment in early June to the Republican budget bill, called the “Big Beautiful Bill.” According

to reporting from “The New York Times,” the proposal would require the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service to identify and sell millions of acres of public lands across 11 Western states.

Eligible states for this proposal would include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Lee said on social media that the move would help promote more housing development by “unlocking underutilized lands.”

On the social media platform X, Lee said the bill, “does not authorize the sale of national parks, monuments or wilderness.” Instead, he said, it “identifies unused, garden-variety federal parcels for potential disposal.” The goal, he says on social media, is to help American families afford a home.

However, a statement from the Senate Committee on the Budget alleged that several amendments to the bill, including Lee’s public land sale mandate, did not follow Senate budget rules. The statement cited the Byrd Rule, which ensures that reconciliation bills remain focused on fiscal issues.

On Monday, Lee posted on X that he’s doing everything he can to support the president and move the bill forward.

“Stay tuned. We’re just getting started,” he wrote.

Amid these discussions, the American Enterprise Institute, a public policy think tank, started looking at the feasibility of Freedom Cities and the disposal of other BLM land for the purpose of building housing.

In its research, AEI identified several parcels of BLM land — some 213,000 acres — in proximity to housing, amenities, water sources and other points of infrastructure. It calls the proposal, “Homesteading 2.0,” which consists of two parts, both of which could apply to Bend.

One of the ideas, dubbed “Home Sweet Home,” identifies BLM land that could be sold to developers to build housing immediately — land that’s immediately adjacent to already-established housing and infrastructure, according to Arthur Gailes, manager of housing supply initiatives with AEI.

The other proposal, Freedom Cities, is a longer-term concept that looks at lands farther out from established cities.

According to Arthur, the studies eliminate conservation areas and protected federal land such as national parks, monuments and Native American reservations, from its consideration.

“For Freedom Cities, we pencil out areas where you can build a big enough block that it would actually form a viable city, and we rank those cities by their proximity to jobs, the demand in the metro and general housing market

indicators. Bend, in particular, is a pretty exciting source for a lot of this,” Gailes told the Source.

“In our work, we highlight the land that is most ripe for development… Bend makes a good site for a lot of these areas, particularly because, like a lot of the western half of the United States, the affordability of its housing supply relative to its income has gotten particularly distorted over the past 10 years.”

While it isn’t completely clear how governance would work within these cities, the cities could be overseen by a federal board, according to memos from various groups proposing these cities.

One of the areas identified in AEI’s report is roughly a two-mile drive from Bend, with a potential for 30,000 homes, Gailes said, utilizing the land that’s outside of Bend’s limits that typically can’t accommodate growth due to certain land use and wildlife habitat protections.

Environmental Impacts

The various proposals sparked the attention of Central Oregon LandWatch, a local environmental watchdog, which sees such campaigns as a direct threat to Oregon’s statewide land-use planning system.

“As an organization that advocates for public lands protections, we are deeply concerned by the current attempts by this Congress and administration to sell off public lands,” COLW Executive Director Ben Gordon told the Source.

In June, COLW created an analysis of the lands AEI identified near Bend and Redmond, analyzing their overlap with emergency services, infrastructure and wildlife habitats. COLW’s analysis aimed to demonstrate what potential resource and land-use planning conflicts the Freedom Cities campaign would present.

According to Gordon, the impacts to wildlife in the proposed locations in Central Oregon are “striking,” with a large percentage of the lands falling within elk, mule deer and sage grouse habitats and migration patterns.

Some 72% of the proposed areas are designated as BLM lands, with “wilderness characteristics,” while some are fully encircling the Badlands Wilderness.

Aside from the loss of land itself, the deregulation of these cities could pose significant threats, according to Dr. Erika Allen Wolters, an Oregon State University professor who focuses on political science and public lands, among other environmental specializations.

Freedom Cities, she said, wouldn't necessarily have the oversight of any U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rules, which typically make considerations about how land is being used and identify any potential ecological impacts.

“These laws were put into effect for a reason, and the idea, then, that we waived our regulatory concerns over things in order for, let's just say, housing to go up quickly, or any other infrastructure to go up quickly, doesn't allow the proper opportunity for there to be public comment, for there to be good, solid scientific review of the proposal. In that, then a lot could be lost,” she said.

Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang noted the importance of conservation and recreation to Central Oregonians. Locals, he said, value public lands because of the wildlife habitats, watershed lands, natural resources and recreational opportunities.

“People come here to have access to forests and desert and rivers and creeks. And you know, it is a fundamental part of the attraction of this community, to have such abundant access to amazing federal public lands, and if you're going to start chopping that up and giving it away or or privatizing it, there's going to be massive outcry in the community,” said Chang.

Bipartisan Opposition

Lee’s proposal to sell public lands received national attention in June, sparking significant bipartisan opposition.

More locally, on June 21, Bend locals gathered at Drake Park to march in protest against the proposed sale of public lands – highlighting the arguments against the idea of privately developing protected or otherwise unused land.

Bend resident Gwen Baker Yuill pointed to the importance of public lands, particularly for those in Central Oregon.

“Public lands are so much a part of the fabric of our lives and the lives of the community, and the idea that they could be auctioned off to the highest bidder… the fact that they're being stolen and potentially put up for sale is unacceptable,” she told the Source. “Silence is approval. It seems very natural that our community will come out.”

Another resident, Amelia DuBose, who also serves as a member of the Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition, hoped the community outcry could enact change.

“I really care about public lands, and I really don't like the Big, Beautiful Bill, and so this addition to it is very dangerous,” DuBose told the Source. “I think this is a really good show of community support for public lands. I also am excited to see where things like this go, because protesting is great, but I'm really excited to see how we can make policy change and other change to protect what we already have.”

On June 16, Oregon’s U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley also weighed in about the various parts of the Big Beautiful Bill.

“Our public lands — which contribute to the spirit and economies of communities throughout Oregon and the country — belong to all of us. Republicans’ attempt to sell off our public lands, kick millions off of their health insurance, and make it harder for families to put food on the table — all to

fund tax giveaways for billionaires — is a betrayal to families and communities across this country,” Merkley wrote in a June 16 statement.

County Commissioner Patti Adair, a conservative, previously showed interest in the idea of Freedom Cities in a March “Bloomberg” article.

When we asked Adair about it in June, for this article, she was not clear about her position. She called the model both a “complicated proposal” and an “interesting idea,” acknowledging that local rent prices need to come down.

Legality and Practicality

According to Wolters with OSU, conversations around public land transfers have been going on for many years. Any attempts to modify the long-settled legality of lands staying in public trust to the federal government, she said, always immediately alerts the public to oppose those proposals.

“There's high bipartisan support for the protection of public land remaining basically in public trust. And so as

“Indian Tribes, neighbors, grazing permittees, those utilizing public access across the land, hunters, watershed function, holders of easements, and environmental impact are some of the issues that must be taken into account in making a decision to alter ownership.”

—Cliff Bentz

we've seen efforts to try to get these lands either transferred and ownership or management over to state entities, you see a pretty big backlash from not only more liberal environmental groups, but also groups that might... lean a little bit more conservative or Republican,” Wolters told the Source.

To open the door to the possibility of Freedom Cities, according to a memo from the Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit focused on domestic Freedom Cities policy, the U.S. government would have to authorize the special designation of these areas, including both private land conversion and federal land-use allowances.

With opposition from several groups who utilize public lands, including hunters, ranchers and advocates, some Republican officials have opposed the idea of selling public lands.

Oregon Republican, Rep. Cliff Bentz, who represents the eastern side of the state in Congress, said he supports the sale or exchange of federal land, but only when it has economic or social demand, follows appropriate procedures and is “generally supported by those affected.”

In a June 25 statement, Bentz said he did not support Lee’s public land sale proposal, stating that this sort of policy should not be introduced without the opportunity for debate from those impacted.

“Of particular concern in making any decision to sell public land is the sale’s impact on those who have rights in the land or currently have some type of use of the land,” he wrote in a statement.

“Indian Tribes, neighbors, grazing permittees, those utilizing public access across the land, hunters, watershed function, holders of easements, and environmental impact are some of the issues that must be taken into account in making a decision to alter ownership.”

According to Wolters with OSU, Congress would need to approve sales of federal public land. These decisions have happened before, she said, by trading or negotiating smaller parcels of land with the state – usually on land that would not really be considered consequential.

While Lee’s proposal to mandate the sale of federal land could offer the opportunity for more targeted policies to go into place, Gailes with AEIC says it’s currently unclear if that land would permit the construction of Freedom Cities.

In a Frontier Foundation memo, the group suggests that the U.S. government should authorize “the special designation of Freedom Cities,” as well as

“oversight capacity” and “certain federal regulation exemptions.” This could include an “executive branch task force and approval body,” establishing a White House-led task force or council to oversee key policy decisions and approvals.

Even if Congress were to pass rules that would further the discussion of Freedom Cities, experts and officials question the feasibility and the actual purpose.

“The proposed Freedom Cities have limited practicality for expanded housing in terms of their connectivity to existing water distribution, sewer, and emergency services. These areas are also impractical from a water availability and wildfire hazard standpoint, neither of which AEI analyzed in their Freedom Cities GIS exercise,” said Gordon with COLW.

Additionally, he said, each of the proposed Freedom Cities locations would presumably rely on groundwater in areas with demonstrably depleted aquifers.

Aside from infrastructure and utility concerns, the feasibility of costs and actually building affordable housing seems to be far-fetched.

“In this day and age, we struggle at the local level to fund the infrastructure needed to build out new neighborhoods,” Chang of Deschutes County said. “It's really unrealistic to think that you could build a whole new city from scratch out in the middle of nowhere without a massive infusion of infrastructure dollars.”

The other plans for Freedom Cities, aside from fast-tracking housing, include “fostering regional centers of technological innovation.” Groups like Frontier Foundation also see these

“In this day and age, we struggle at the local level to fund the infrastructure needed to build out new neighborhoods. It's really unrealistic to think that you could build a whole new city from scratch out in the middle of nowhere without a massive infusion of infrastructure dollars.”

—Phil Chang

cities housing “industry centers.”

Wolters questions how these proposals, promoted under the notion of building middle-class housing, could actually be used for housing, and specifically affordable housing.

“I think right now, there's a lot of these kind of promises or statements that make it sound as if it's going to benefit or improve our public housing crisis, when, instead, it could have absolutely nothing to do with that,” she said.

“It's very possible it would be sold off to make large mansions or to parcel that land out to millionaires or billionaires who would like to have a big hunk of Western land.”

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 7/2

WILD OCHOCOS PUB TALK

OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS TO PUBLIC LANDS

Join Oregon Wild staff for an evening focused on the diverse habitats, ancient forests and wild landscapes of the Ochocos. Learn about current threats and opportunities to protect this special landscape. Wed., July 2, 6pm at Worthy Brewing. 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Free.

WEDNESDAY 7/2

LAKE STREET DIVE

IRRESISTIBLE GROOVES AT THE AMPHITHEATER

Lake Street Dive brings its infectious spirit and radiant new album “Good Together” to the stage—melding tight harmonies, sharp musicianship and a message of joyful rebellion into a live show that will have you on your feet. Wed., July 2, 7pm at Hayden Homes Amphitheater. 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr., Bend. $46.

THURSDAY 7/3

MUNCH AND MUSIC

FREE CONCERT SERIES AT DRAKE PARK

In its 34th season, Munch and Music kicks off with music from Hotel Kalifornia—a tribute to the Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tom Petty and other ‘70s classics. With food trucks and libations onsite, the popular concert series is the place to be on a Thursday this summer. Thu., July 3, 5-9pm at Drake Park. 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend. Free.

FOURTH OF JULY BIKE PARADE

FESTIVITIES IN SUNRIVER

This family-friendly celebration includes carnival-style games, pony rides, live entertainment, food and a bike parade. The cost of entry is $1 per person, with proceeds benefiting local charities serving children. Fri., July 4, 11am-3pm at The Village at Sunriver. 57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver.

REVOLUTIONARY: SUPER SEXY SUPERHEROES

TRADE FIREWORKS FOR FIRE-EATERS

Head to Silver Moon Brewing for a high-voltage night of burlesque and aerial acrobatics from Lava City Cirque, and fiery spectacles from the High Desert Fire Artists. Sexy superheroes, vigilante vixens, high-flying heroines and lots of spandex all around. Sat., July 5, 8pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $20-$120.

LIZA’S LOUNGE

A NIGHT AT THE CABARET

Treat yourself to decadence and live music at Liza's Lounge. Think 54 Below—live piano bar in the heart of New York City. Hosted by Fertile Liza and featuring a talented cast of performers, this will be a very fun and dreamy night of music. Thu., July 3, Fri., July 4 and Sat., July 5, 7:30pm at The Greenhouse Cabaret. 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. $99-$125.

COMPANY GRAND

SUNRIVER’S TURF TUNES SERIES

Known for high-energy shows, Company Grand has been bringing the party for over a decade. The ninepiece band delivers electrifying and original rock, blues, funk originals and covers. Dump City Dumplings will be slinging bites. Sun., July 6, 6-8pm at SHARC. 57250 Overlook Rd., Sunriver. Free.

TUESDAY 7/8

WINE ON THE DECK

FEATURING HUNDRED SUNS WINE

Suttle Lodge & Boathouse hosts this delectable series every Tuesday of summer. This week, pours will be from Hundred Suns Wine of the Willamette Valley. Meet the winemakers and enjoy accompanying seasonal small plates from Suttle’s Skip Kitchen. Tue., July 8, 6pm at Suttle Lodge & Boathouse. 13300 Hwy. 20, Sisters. $75.

SOUND

BCascade Equinox Festival Musical Magic Reigns at this Grand Event

By Sarah Isak-Goode

race yourselves, music lovers! As it kicks off its third year, Cascade Equinox Festival is preparing for its most electrifying edition yet, making its triumphant return to the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond this September. Celebrated for its diverse programming and captivating experiences, the festival takes an exciting, fresh direction in 2025, pivoting toward a dance music-centered lineup that showcases top-tier talent.

Leading the jam-packed roster of Cascade Equinox 2025 headliners is Grammy-nominated electronic duo Disclosure. Renowned for their groundbreaking fusion of deep house, UK garage, and synth-pop, Disclosure's energetic performance promises to be a festival showstopper, bringing their signature blend of addictive beats and heartfelt melodies.

The stellar Cascade Equinox 2025 headliners also include celebrated dance music artists such as electropop duo Sylvan Esso, trap innovator TroyBoi, saxophone-wielding bass music duo Big Gigantic, Montreal electro-funk duo Chromeo, and an exclusive DJ set from cherished indie-electronic band Passion Pit. Rounding out the stylings are groups like High Step Society, which is known for its big band dance music, and Pink Talking Fish, a mash-up band featuring elements of Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, and Phish. Regional favorites like Barisone, Cliché and Yak Attack are also a must-see.

Just before heading out on a summer tour, Pink Talking Fish bassist and singer Eric Gould sat down to talk with SW about his band’s unique style.

the Source: Pink Talking Fish plays Pink Floyd, Talking Heads and Phish. You’re clearly into some older bands. Did you grow up listening to this kind of music?

Eric Gould: Definitely! My influence with Pink Floyd, particularly, was just right when I was getting into my teens, and it was just this music that had this depth that I had never experienced before. At the time, I was getting into classic rock, as well as old-school hip-hop like Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys, stuff like that. That was what was jiving with me at the time. Then this came up, and it was like, 'Oh my God, what is this?' And I found it on my own, too. My folks were into a lot of great music, but they didn’t get me into Floyd. And from there, Talking Heads just came in through some hit songs. Then, I wound up diving deeper into the catalog as I got older. And Phish hit me real hard late in high school, like the ‘91, ‘92 zone. Once I saw my first show, it was over. I caught so many shows… I just saw three shows this past weekend in Manchester, New Hampshire. It was amazing, oh my goodness.

tS: Were you ever a big Grateful Dead fan, too?

EG: Yeah, yeah. I wasn’t a Deadhead the way I’m into Phish, but I always enjoyed them and appreciated them. And I actually toured with Mickey Hart from the Grateful Dead for a while. I really got to dive into the culture and go behind the curtain a little bit.

tS: Oh, wow! What an experience!

EG: That made me appreciate everything all the more.

tS: You even did a Pink Talking Fish are Dead tour, where Pink Talking Fish also played Grateful Dead songs.

EG: Yeah, we’ve done a lot of concepts beyond the concept where we’ve added a fourth band or done an album. Like this year- we’re doing a Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary Celebration. We’re not doing it

at the festival, but on our headlining shows throughout the spring, the first set was the album Wish You Were Here, straight up. Then, the second set was our combination of the three bands.

tS: If you could jam with a band from the 60s or 70s, who would it be?

EG: (Smiling) Oh, great question! Wow… I would love to have a jam with the Velvet Underground when they were at a residency at Andy Warhol’s factory. They took it out there, and, you know, they were a jam band before the jam band world even knew what to say.

tS: Before you became a musician, you studied film. How do you feel that film and music connect?

EG: Even though I’m not a professional in the film world now, it’s been amazing how the mediums are transferable. Especially in this day and age, there’s so much multimedia that goes on. So, for our Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary Celebration, our keyboard player, Stephen Learson, designed video footage for the entire show. He did such a good job, and it just feels so good to have that happening while the music is going.

At the end of the day, artistically, I consider myself a storyteller. So whether it’s through music, film, or whatever it turns out to be, that’s the title I gravitate toward more than anything. With Pink Talking Fish, it’s interesting because we’re taking three songbooks from these amazing bands, and we’re displaying them in a unique way that fans of the music haven’t seen before. And so we’re telling different stories each time, and it’s great.

We’re psyched to be back in the Bend and Redmond area for the Cascade Equinox Festival. The lineup is awesome.

Festival co-founder Josh Pollack agrees, saying, “The lineup is super unique and really represents the festival and the PNW music community.” Beyond the incredible music, Cascade Equinox Festival delivers an array of activities, including kid zones and art

experiences. Pollack is proud to be a family-friendly event, saying that the festival offers “a fully curated schedule of kids camps and activities from morning until the early evening. Last year, we added the Solar Spin, which is a giant roller skating rink that families absolutely loved, and we're excited to be bringing that zone back with an even bigger skating area!”

Pollack is also excited about the arts. He says, “There will be so much amazing art packed into the festival weekend, highlighted by an incredible cast of some of the PNW's most talented live painters, creating live works of art that are inspired by the festival. There will be more interactive art installations and dance performances scattered across the festival that are aimed to awe and inspire. We certainly have no shortage of incredible art in our region, and we do our best to showcase as much of it as we possibly can!”

When it comes to accommodations, Cascade Equinox has you covered with fantastic camping options for every style and budget! The crown jewel is the luxurious Alpenglow Campground, featuring glamping (complete with amenities). There are also deluxe car camping spots, RV hookups, dry RV camping, walk-in camping, and basic camping packages - ensuring every attendee can find their perfect home base for this unforgettable weekend adventure.

The Cascade Equinox Festival fuses the traditional festival landscape with groundbreaking innovations, as Pollack calls it, “a festival reimagined.”

Cascade Equinox Festival Fri.-Sun., Sep. 19-21

Deschutes County Fairgrounds

3800 SE Airport Way, Redmond cascadeequinox.com/ 3-Day $329.99

SOUND

I“I Hear Thunder” Tab Benoit coming to the Tower Theatre

By Bill Forman

t’s the kind of music industry story that dates back to the earliest days of regional rock ‘n' roll -- but with a twist.

In the early ‘90s, aspiring Cajun roots-rock musician Tab Benoit signed his first music industry contract. Barely out of his teens, he had no idea he was locking himself into a deal that would lead to a 14-year absence from the studio.

Like so many of those early artists, Benoit was naive enough to sign on the dotted line without first having the contract reviewed by a lawyer. The result was a string of albums that, due to the influence of producers and record company executives, too often fell short of his expectations.

Now, after finally waiting out his contract, Benoit is touring to promote his new album “I Hear Thunder.” Released on his Whiskey Bayou label, it’s the album the Fender Telecaster-wielding musician has long wanted to make, a self-produced collection that captures the unvarnished energy of his live performances.

But the real twist, and what makes Benoit’s story truly unique, is he could have fulfilled that contract long ago by delivering just one more album to his previous label.

Instead, the four-time Grammy nominee and multiple blues awards winner devoted his time to extensive touring. He also organized the annual All-Star Voice of the Wetlands Festival to support efforts to save Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, which are disappearing at a rate of one acre an hour.

Benoit recorded “I Hear Thunder” -- which was written with his longtime collaborator Anders Osborne and also features Meters legend George Porter on three tracks -- in his lifelong hometown Houma, a Louisiana community that’s still reeling in the aftermath of Covid and the devastation brought on by a direct hit from category 4 Hurricane Ida in 2021.

TB: No, not really. I mean, this is the first album where I didn’t have anybody to answer to: no producer, no record label having to approve of anything. To go in there and try to make magic while somebody else on the other side of the glass is analyzing it, there's that feeling in the back of your mind like, you know, they ain’t gonna like this. And that’s going to change how you approach things and how open you are to playing in the moment.

I go to their town, we always catch up. And if I put out that kind of record, I couldn't face them. I mean, you put an album out, it's forever. Can't take it back, and it's gonna represent me after I'm gone.

BF: You're one of the few musicians playing today who has successfully explored the crossroads between Cajun music, rock, and the blues. Can you talk about what those styles all have in common?

TB: Well, I mean, all that comes from Louisiana. Rock and roll was invented in New Orleans. It was piano music. It was Fats Domino and Huey Smith and Professor Longhair. People forget that the first song that was considered rock and roll was a piano song. That's when they played a real piano. But you know where all that came from, right? And you know where I live, I mean, New Orleans and South Louisiana and just the Mississippi Delta in general was where all this music was coming from.

In the following interview, Benoit explains why he went so many years without recording an album. He also talks about working-class values, serenading gators and not taking the easy way out.

Bill Forman: At what point did you decide to stop making records? Did you just find yourself putting it off as the years went on?

Tab Benoit: No, I’d already had enough, so I decided that I wasn’t giving another album to a record label again. The original record deal that I signed was when I was 21 or 22 years old, and I signed it without a lawyer. So I’ve been locked into this bad deal that I finally got out of after 30 years. I was just gonna wait it out and see what happens, and this is what happened.

BF: I understand that on “I Hear Thunder,” you had the final say over everything. Has that not always been the case?

I couldn’t talk about it, because they could have come after me. If they saw interviews with me saying I ain't giving them another record, they could have sued me. But I did not want to give another one away, you know. I think I only owed them one more record. But I wouldn’t have had any control over it. I couldn’t reproduce my own stuff, I couldn’t go put it on vinyl for people, I couldn’t do any of that.

BF: Couldn’t you have done what Neil Young did with “Trans,” just put out an album you didn’t care about to fulfill the contract?

TB: I can't bring myself to do that, either. I wouldn't know how to go out and release an album of junk just to get out of a deal. I would feel terrible about it, because people that have been die-hard fans of mine since the beginning, they’re still coming to see me. You know, we're growing old together. We become friends. When

With my generation, the live bands around here were playing swamp pop, which is early New Orleans rock and roll and piano songs but using guitar to do it. It’s all the things you said -- blues, R&B Cajun music and rock and roll -- all mixed together.

BF: So how often do you get out to your fishing camp these days?

TB: As soon as I get home, that's where I go.

BF: Does being alone out there help you write songs?

I do write songs by myself, but I don't go out to write a “lot” of songs. It’s not like I write hundreds of songs and then pick the best for the album. It's never like that. Everything I write, I use.

And with Anders, we write all this stuff very fast and very naturally. I had Anders and George Porter come out to my fishing camp, and took them out in the swamp, and we’d sit out there and write songs. Like with “Watching the Gators Roll,” we're writing the song to an alligator who's swimming in the current to stay right next to the boat, because he’s listening to what we’re doing and he’s digging it, So I'm sitting there singing the song to him, and, you know, Anders and George are going, ‘Wow, this is cool.’ And I'm like, I told y'all, when we go out in the swamp, it ain't just us, you know? It's alive out there.

Tab Benoit Thu., July 17, 7:30pm Tower Theatre 835 NW Wall Street, Bend towertheatre.org/event/tab-benoit-i-hear-thunder $44-$69

S SOUND

CBryan Bielanski Loves Tacos and Bend North Carolina’s galivanting troubadour is bringing his Super Happy Fun Time to Bend

By Julie Hanney

atching Bryan Bielanski in one place can be a difficult feat. He is on tour about 49 weeks a year, playing shows all over (and I mean ALL over) the U.S. and Europe. As a one-man band, he is on a mission to bring his Super Happy Fun Time albums I-IV to as many people as possible, and it’s hard not to feel, well… happier while listening to his music. He will bring his good-time show to Bunk+Brew on Sunday, July 13.

the Source: Your tour schedule is absolutely jampacked. Where are you right now?

Bryan Bielanski: I’m actually in Asheville, North Carolina. So, basically, I just kind of make circles around the U.S. over and over again. My home base is in Charlotte, so I just got down with one circle around the U.S. and I’m about to embark on a second circle for this year.

tS: Sometimes people need music to ask profound questions and empathize with their sadness, and other times they just want to smile and dance. What inspires you to create such fun and happy music?

BB: The world can be a stressful kind of a place, so I wanted Bryan’s Super Happy Fun Time to be kind of like a fortress to get away from any troubles or anxieties in the world and just remember that life is great and we need to take time to enjoy life.

tS: Yes! That’s such a great perspective. Who were your biggest musical inspirations when you were growing up?

BB: Oh, by far my two favorite groups were the Beatles and Nirvana. As I’ve gotten older, I have gotten into all kinds of music. I like everything from country to classical to some electronic dance music, so I’ve got a lot of different favorite musical artists across a wide variety of genres.

tS: I was kind of hoping you would say Weird Al was one of your influences, because I definitely get some wonderful Weird Al vibes from your song “Thank God for Tacos.”

BB: Thank you, you know what, I like him and a lot of people make that comparison. I never really set out to try to do Weird Al-esque stuff, though I definitely take it as a compliment.

tS: You are quite a prolific songwriter, are you one of those people who is just writing songs all the time?

BB: You know, kind of, and being on the road all the time, I am never in short supply of topic material for the songs. On the road, there is always something interesting going on. So yeah, I kind of am just writing all the time, thankfully.

tS: I see on your website that you are going to be on tour almost constantly from May 28 through January 9, going through dozens of states and European countries as well. So, you must really love to tour?

BB: I think nothing beats just getting to meet so many different people, seeing so many different cultures… and also, the food! That’s always a big part of the fun, too.

tS: Do people in Europe “get” your music as much as Americans do?

BB: In some cases, even more so! When I did a European tour last year, it went great. Some of the most enthusiastic audiences I’ve ever played to were in France, Switzerland and the Czech Republic, but I had great shows all across the continent.

"The world can be a stressful kind of a place, so I wanted Bryan’s Super Happy Fun Time to be kind of like a fortress to get away from any troubles or anxieties in the world and just remember that life is great and we need to take time to enjoy life."

—Bryan Bielanski

tS: Is it just you, your guitar and a van? Or how do you get around the country so much?

BB: So, my main vehicle is a hybrid Toyota Corolla, and I removed all the seats out of it and kind of built a little DIY bed in the car. I also have a Toyota Tundra, but the vehicle I take coast to coast is the Corolla.

tS: What is your musical dream? Are you living the dream or is there more you want to achieve?

BB: You know, I’m kind of doing what I always dreamed of doing. The goal now is to keep doing it and to continue to perform and build up a following. I want to try to play in more countries to add to my bucket list of places I’ve performed.

tS: Have you played in Bend before?

BB: I have! I’ve had some great shows in Bend before. I’ve never played at Bunk+Brew before, it will be my first time at that particular venue, but Oregon in general is like, one of the states that “gets me,” so I

love coming through there, and it’s a beautiful, beautiful place, too. Central Oregon, where Bend is, has just, like, some of the prettiest drives in the whole country.

tS: The font you use for your albums is the Super Mario Bros. font, which just immediately lets you know that this is going to be fun music. How did you choose that font?

BB: Since I had the song, “I’m Your Super Mario,” that was really popular, I think it’s my most popular song to date, it seemed like a logical choice. And I always loved the Super Mario font. It reminds me of being a little kid and playing the video games. So, there is definitely some nostalgia there. And yeah, it just kind of gives people the notion of what the concert is going to be about.

tS: I see you covered the Brittney Spears song, “Hit Me Baby One More Time,” which is pretty epic. Do you find audiences sing along more with your covers or your originals?

BB: Luckily, most of my originals are catchy and people that have never seen me before, I notice them on songs on like, “I’m Your Super Mario” or “Rock the Library,” singing the choruses by the end of the songs. And “Thank God for Tacos,” that’s definitely a big singalong one, for sure.

Bryan Bielanski

We are Central Oregon's longest standing yoga studio, with locations in Bend and Redmond, offering yoga classes, workshops, teacher trainings, massage and Ayurveda. Class styles for all levels and abilities.

SOUND

Allah-Las Brings the Sand, Sun, and Sounds of SoCal to Bend

This L.A. band wants to make you move and keep everybody happy

By Nic Tarter

Los Angeles rock band, Allah-Las, will play the Volcanic Theatre Pub on July 11. I spoke with singer and guitarist Miles Michaud about shaking the “surf rock” label, more world tours than he can count, and what we can do to destroy The Algorithm.

the Source: You guys have been around the world a lot in the last 17 years, but especially France. What is it about France?

Miles Michaud: Our first record did really well in Europe, so that set the stage for touring in France. We used to go annually; sometimes twice. The following has always been good there.

tS: Is it coincidence that you tour places that are known for their surf breaks? Australia, Brazil, Portugal, Biarritz.

MM: We definitely take that into consideration. Last time we were in Biarritz we borrowed some boards and stayed after the tour for a week.

tS: Your tours sound like positive experiences, but in the past, you’ve said, “Will it ever end? Will I ever be able to live a normal, daily life? Is it all worth it?”

MM: (Laughs) I said that?

tS: That’s a direct quotation.

MM: That must have been the bus tour we did with Mapache. Since then, since Covid, and since having a kid, we don’t go out for a month anymore. It almost seems barbaric in hindsight—to go live for a month with a bunch of other guys. I don’t know what you’re trying to do when you’re touring like that. Now, two weeks and an extra weekend, max. It’s important not to give so much of your time to traveling and being in a van. In terms of being creative, too, it kind of sucks the creativity out of you and doesn’t allow you to have free will or control over your life. So maybe that mindset when I gave that quote is something that affected where we’re at now, which is a much healthier and more enjoyable touring experience.

tS: About every two years you put out a new album. The last one was 2023. Any new tracks this year?

MM: I have a studio at my house, and we came in to do some demos and ended up with a whole record of instrumentals, which we’ll start releasing soon. (Pig snort in background) Sorry, that’s my pig, George. George!

tS: A pig?

MM: Yeah. I haven’t fed him breakfast. He’s pissed off. Yeah, we’re going to release a couple digital singles at a time over the next couple months. I think at the end of the process if it seems like something people want, then we’ll press a record.

tS: What can we expect the show to be like in Bend?

MM: We’ve always brought more energy to the stage than we have on our records. We try to get people moving and that makes us move. We try to get the energy up in the audience. Keep everybody happy.

tS: After the first two albums you said that you felt pigeonholed as a surf rock band. The next albums sounded different. Do you think the band shook the surf rock label?

MM: I think the surf rock label was the music that was coming from Southern California at that time. I don’t think it had anything to do with surfing other than a lot of people who made it surfed. But labels are labels, and that’s fine. I don’t care too much either

way. Certainly, the sound we had on our first record and partly the second, elements of it are still there, but largely it’s not Fender reverb and four-chord 60’s rock vibe. But you know, whether or not we’re surf rock anymore, I don’t if we ever were. It was just something somebody decided to call it.

tS: Reading reviews from your earlier albums, so often critics said, “It’s really great, but it sounds like the last album.” How do you feel about music critics, especially when few write anything original? Like, do we even need them?

MM: (Laughs) There was one guy in The Netherlands who gave us a shining review on our first record and that was something that changed our lives. There is a power they have, and if they have a trusting audience and experience doing it, people put a lot of faith in that. Like any power, it can be good or bad, depending on how it’s wielded. I’d much rather people listen to the advice and thoughts of a human than the fucking algorithm any day.

tS: The Algorithm. There’s no escape. Except, you did a podcast called Reverberation Radio, which was music that you and your bandmates were listening to at the time. Why did you stop?

MM: We did 500 episodes and we never made any move to make any money off of it, which is part of the reason why it became successful and people adore it. But honestly, Spotify was coming up and there were people making Reverberation Radio playlists and we were like, “We’re doing all this work putting all this together and services like Spotify hoover up all that data and put it together and are spoiling the fun.” So, we quit.

It almost seems barbaric in hindsight — to go live for a month with a bunch of other guys.

tS: I was going to say that we need Reverberation Radio more than ever, but you just convinced me that it’s not going to happen.

MM: It needs to happen; I just don’t think it needs to happen on the internet. I think…I hope—I hope more than I think—that a cultural turning point and cultural revolution that will happen, and should happen, is people extracting themselves off the internet and data-based things, especially when it comes to creativity. And that doesn’t mean much other than you don’t put your album on Spotify or your book on the internet—things that will have the effect of making the interpersonal and human connection stronger and more valuable, rather than trying to get as much money as you possibly can from your creative work.

Allah-Las with Sepe Fri., July 11, 7 pm Volcanic Theatre Pub 70 SW Century Dr, Bend volcanictheatre.com/ $37.89

CALENDAR

2 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Blacksmith Public House Head Games Trivia Join us for a Head Games Trivia session every Wednesday night! Put your thinking caps on and bring a team of your smartest friends. Friendly for all ages and team sizes! First Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Open Jam with Monkey Mode Bring your instrument, your voice or just your vibe. All are welcome to join the spontaneous magic and jam with Bend’s best. No pressure, no rules—just pure creative flow. First Wednesday of every month, 6-9pm. Free.

The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Cellar Live Music with Danger Gently Head down to The Cellar every Wednesday to enjoy live music from Danger Gently, a talented rotating cast of characters playing old-timey jams! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Bobcat Bobcat, the awe-inspiring one-man band from NY is a captivating force in the world of music and entertainment. Experience an extraordinary blend of rockabilly, punk rock, garage rock, power pop, psychobilly and indie rock. If you crave an authentic rock 'n' roll experience, Bobcat is the real deal. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Erin Cole-Baker Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music! 6-8pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House

Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Head Games multi-media trivia is at Deschutes Bend Public House every Wednesday. Win prizes. Teams up to six. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater

Lake Street Dive Five-piece band Lake Street Drive, known for its bold soul, folk, jazz and classic pop music is coming to Bend this summer with special guests The 502s. 7pm. $46.

M&J Tavern Open Mic Night Downtown living room welcomes musicians to bring their acoustic set or turn it up to 11 with the whole band. Bring your own instruments. 6:30pm. Free.

Market of Choice Bend Scrabble Club at Market of Choice We meet upstairs. We use the 7th edition of the Scabble Players Dictionary. New Scrabble players are welcome. If you have a Scrabble set, please bring it as a backup. 6-8:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Acoustic Open Mic and Jam hosted by Derek Michael Marc Sign-up sheet is available at 6:30pm. 7-9pm. Free.

Pinky G’s Pizzeria MUSIC BINGO Join music Bingo (think Bingo and Name that Tune). Great food, cold drinks and good times. Free to play and prizes for each round winner. 6-8pm. Free.

Ponch’s Place Bingo Wednesdays at Ponch’s Place Enjoy Bingo at Ponch’s Place on Wednesdays. 5:30-7pm. Free

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

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Prost! - Bend Trivia Prost! UKB Trivia is now at Prost! Genuine UKB Trivia is no average trivia night! Meet up with friends, win gift card prizes for top teams! Enjoy Prost’s authentic beer and food menu. Trivia is free to play, with no buy-ins! 7-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Swing Night with Haute Mélange Space to dance, special guests, fantastic food trucks and some of the best craft beer in Bend. 6pm. $10.

3 Thursday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Austin Mercantile Live Music Every Thursday Join at Austin Mercantile for live music every Thursday. Offering a light happy hour menu — daily flatbread, chili, charcuterie, soft pretzels and more! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

Bar Rio Live Music at Bar Rio Grab your favorite bites and sips and relax into the music— ranging from jazz and blues to pop and flamenco. 6-8pm. Free.

Blacksmith Public House Karaoke with DJ Chris Join us on our indoor stage for Karaoke night! Every Thursday from 6:30-8pm. We have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, great drink options, and lots of food trucks! Family and dog friendly. 6:30-8pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursday at Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Thursdays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night. Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. In-house menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:308:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays Sing your heart out at Bunk + Brew’s Karaoke Night! Whether you’re a pro or just love the spotlight, all voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 7-10pm. Free.

The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Join us for a night of live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early if you can! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Just Us Americana-influenced folk, rock, pop and blues. You are in for a treat. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Crave Bend COMEDY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Comedy Open Mic Night on the SW side of Bend! Adults only encouraged. Intimate, smaller venue, healthier food and beverages, and an interactive night of comedy every Thursday! Hosted By Hopper. 7-9pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House Stand-Up Comedy It’s time for Stand-Up Comedy with Soul of Wit Productions! Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt at this hilarious night of comedy. First Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. $25.

The Dez Lounge Open Mic Join Joyful Lane at open mic night! Enjoy NA cocktails, charcuterie and dessert while listening to local talent! 6-9pm. Free.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Let’s Have a Kiki A weekly 2SLGBTQIA+ night hosted by Cliché, with a new featured resident DJ each month. Kicking off the series in May with DJ Lunallday. Let’s have a kiki! 7-10pm. Free.

Drake Park Munch & Music Munch & Music free concert series in Drake Park, presented by The Source Weekly and Hayden Homes, will celebrate its 34th season! Music starts at 5:30pm on the Boss Mortgage stage and ends around 9pm. Every Thursday starting July 3 through Aug. 7. 5-9pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia Night at Elements Public House with QuizHead Games Come be all you can be with Trivia Night every Thursday from 6-8pm! Featuring QuizHead. games. Located at the north end of Redmond. Full bar and great food! 6-8pm. Free.

The Lot Sone of Wolf (Maxx Lopez) Son of Wolf is Maxx Lopez’s solo acoustic project. It is a deep dive into his lifelong fascination with music. Blending many of his fantasy themed songs with his obsession of bluegrass, Grateful Dead, and many other styles. 6-8pm. Free.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Angelic Noise at McKenzie General Store McKenzie General Store loves being able to provide free family friendly live music to our community of locals, adventures and travelers alike! With our outdoor beirgarden, restaurant and general store we’re sure to have all you need for an unforgettable evening! 6-9pm. free.

Midtown Yacht Club Bingo for Bunnies Play bingo, win great prizes and support the bunnies of Ember’s Bunny Rescue! Family friendly, bring your friends. 6-8pm. $3 per bingo card.

Mountain Burger RumPeppers Thursday night live! 6-8pm. Free.

Pangaea Guild Hall Intro to D&D Workshop Calling all adventurers! Have you wanted to play Dungeons and Dragons but have no idea where to start? Pangaea Guild Hall presents an “Intro to D&D” workshop series hosted by yours truly, Guildmaster Chris! Learn to build and play your own D&D character. Call or email to reserve your spot! 6-9pm. $10.

Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place Trivia Thursdays at Ponch’s Place with QuizHead Games. 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Soul’d Out Soul, R&B & funk! 6-8pm. Free.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Stage 28 Karaoke Come out for a night of Stage 28 Karaoke with your host Miss Min! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Call Down Thunder Call Down Thunder, playing the music of the Grateful Dead, with support from Spencer Marlyn Band and Quattlebaum. 6pm. $15.

Silver Moon Brewing So Much House: Fluffy Stuff & Luxo SoMuchHouse: Bend debut DJ set by Fluffy Stuff with support by Luxo. B2B set by Its Fine & MStarkDJ. Dance, community, house music. Join for this special night! First Friday of every month, 8pm-2am. $15.

The Barrel Room at UPP The Cult of Tuck Presents: C*NTservative A bold and unapologetic punk rock drag show, C*NTservative promises a July 4th spectacle of rebellion, glitter and raw attitude. Featuring electrifying performances by queens, kings and nonbinary artists, the event celebrates individuality and freedom while shattering norms with fierce energy and anti-conformist pride. 8-10pm. Ticket prices range from $25-$75.

5 Saturday

Live at the Vineyard: The Substitutes Rock the night away with The Substitutes at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards! Get ready for a high-energy night of classic rock with The Substitutes—Central Oregon’s self-appointed “Rock and Roll Border Patrol” since 1996! These rock veterans have been defending your right to rock for over two decades. 6-9pm. $15.

Austin Mercantile Saturday Afternoon Live Music Austin Mercantile is now adding live music on Saturdays! Serving wine, beer, lite happy hour menu, gifts and home decor. Hope to see you soon! 4:30-6:30pm. Free.

Blacksmith Public House DMM + Crossfire Rock and country hits in a family-friendly venue! 6:30-10pm. Free.

Bridge 99 Brewery Family Karaoke Night If you’re looking for family-friendly events this weekend, Bridge 99 Brewery is hosting karaoke! Come join the show where you are the star! All the songs you want to sing in a family-friendly atmosphere. 6pm. Free.

The Capitol Rare Form w/ Soft Clip and Mafimi (Montly DJ Residency) Bend’s finest nightclub, djs, atmosphere and premium sound system. First Friday features Rare Form w/ Soft Clip and Mafimi. First Saturday of every month, 9pm-2am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Just Us Americana-influenced folk, rock, pop and blues. You are in for a treat. 8-10pm.

The Commonwealth Pub Commonwealth DJ Dance Party with TRUNORTH Join TRUNORTH as he makes his way down from the 49th parallel, spinning the latest and greatest, raising the bar on this year’s playoff season. Join him Friday and Saturday nights at The Commonwealth Pub and cheer on the beats from soul, to funk, to today’s hits. 9pm-Midnight. Free.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian

Grill Colin Trio at McKenzie General Store McKenzie General Store loves being able to provide free family friendly live music to our community of locals, adventures and travelers alike! With our outdoor beirgarden, restaurant and general store we’re sure to have all you need for an unforgettable evening! 6-9pm. Free.

Portello Wine and Spirits Long Gone Wilder Come out for a fun night of music, drinks and great food! 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Mavis Bretz Project Americana, folk, bluegrass and other standards. 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Van’s Child & Aage Birch Van’s Child and Aage Birch team up for an unforgettable show. 7pm. $15.

Silver Moon Brewing Revolutionary: Super Sexy Superheroes This Independence Day, trade fireworks for fire eaters and celebrate revolution with ferocity, grit and a whole lot of spandex. Join us for a high-voltage night of burlesque, aerial acrobatics from Lava City Cirque and fiery spectacle from the High Desert Fire Artists. With political powers crumbling and chaos in the air, we’re summoning the sexy superhumans we really need, from vigilante vixens to high-flying heroines, to fight back with charm, curves and killer choreography. 8-10pm.

Sunriver Resort The Jugulars Playing everyone’s favorites from the ‘70s to contemporary, with a few originals in the mix. Bring your dancing shoes or enjoy the feel of grass under your feet. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

SHARC Company Grand This dynamic 9-piece band has been electrifying audiences for over 10 years! Known for its high-energy shows, Company Grand delivers a mix of original rock & roll, Blues, funk and rhythm & blues, alongside an impressive selection of crowd-pleasing covers. Doors open at 5pm with Dump City Dumplings Cart on site! 6-8pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Open Mic at the Moon Get a taste of the big time! Sign-up is at 4pm! Come check out the biggest and baddest open mic night in Bend! 5-8pm. Free.

7 Monday

Bridge 99 Brewery Trivia Mondays at Bridge 99 Trivia Mondays at 6:30pm at Bridge 99 Brewery with Useless Knowledge Bowl. It’s no ordinary trivia night, Team up to win house gift cards! Great brews, cocktails, and more. Inhouse menu and food truck options available! It’s free to play. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 63063 Layton Ave, Bend. 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Backyard Open Mic Mondays Bring the energy and hit the stage! Sing, rap, tell jokes or vibe out with the crowd. Killer eats from food carts and beer truck flowing all night. 6-10pm. Free.

Cheba Hut Comedy Open Mic Free to watch. Free to perform. 7-9pm. Free.

Velvet One Mad Man Music One Mad Man: loops together multiple instruments to create moody, driven backdrops accompanied by smooth vocals. First Saturday of every month, 9pm-Midnight. Free.

Wetlands Taphouse Cover Story Cover Story is a country rock band based in Bend. We play songs you forgot you love. @coverstory_bend 6-9pm. Free.

6 Sunday

Bar Rio Live Music at Bar Rio Grab your favorite bites and sips and relax into the music— ranging from jazz and blues to pop and flamenco. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Trivia Night Sunday Funday Trivia with Sean. Gather your team, or roll solo and find a spot early in the cafe, knowledge tests begin at 6pm. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Richard Taelour - Sundays on the patio Richard is an amazing artist and musician; hang out, listen to music, look at art he makes. 3-6pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Head Games Trivia Night Eat. Drink. Think. Win! Live multi-media trivia every Sunday @ 6pm. The Commonwealth Pub - Bend Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to 6. 6-8pm. Free.

Flying Dutchman Alpacas Piano

Flow Alpaca Picnic Join us for a magical outdoor concert experience surrounded by friendly, free-roaming alpacas! Relax into the sounds of live piano music in a serene farm setting while you sip on artisan mocktails and enjoy an optional high tea service featuring fresh pastries, delicate tea sandwiches and other seasonal treats. 2pm. $25-$40.

River’s Place The Brainy Brunch Trivia! Useless Knowledge Bowl Trivia presents “The Brainy Brunch!” Bring your crew of friends or family and a pen/pencil! Play for fun and gift cards, play for free! Experienced, independent, locally owned and operated! Noon. Free.

River’s Place Fluffalove Music for the soul, consisting primarily of ‘70s folk/rock gems. The Laurel Canyon vibe includes two acoustic guitars and tight harmonies. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Monday Night Musicians Showcase: Hosted by FAFO Come showcase your sound, discover fresh talent and enjoy a night of incredible live music. Hosted by Funk Around & Find Out, we’re creating a space where musicians can stretch out, jam, tighten up or spark something new. Full backline provided. 6-9pm. Free.

Crux Fermentation Project Trivia Night @ Crux Trivia Night at Crux! First place team wins a $25 gift card! 6-8pm. Free.

Elixir Winery and Tasting Room Locals Music Night and Open Mic Bend’s friendliest open-mic! All genres welcome. Oregon and international wine, beer and tapas menu available all evening. 6-9pm. Free.

Immersion Brewing Open Mic hosted by Bend Comedy All performance types are welcome! All ages are welcome to attend and perform! All acts are eligible to audition to perform in a future Bend Comedy show! 7-9pm. Free.

JC’s Bar & Grill Karaoke Karaoke kicks off at 8pm with our awesome host Van! Come early to get a prime seat. Happy hour lasts all day and our pool tables are free Mondays. 8pm. Free.

On Tap Locals’ Day Plus Live Music Cheaper drinks all day and live music at night, get down to On Tap. 11am-9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Beertown Comedy Open Mic Voted #1 Open Mic and Locals Night, Beertown Comedy’s Open Mic happens every Monday at Silver Moon Brewing. Free to watch and perform! Sign-ups at 6:30pm, show at 7pm. With 20 spots available, bring your best jokes and get noticed for paid gigs. Laughter guaranteed! 6:30-9pm. Free.

8 Tuesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke Get here early to put your name on the list! Drink specials every night. 9pm-2am. Free.

Bunk+Brew Backyard Trivia Tuesdays! Big brains, cold beers, bragging rights! Battle it out under the stars with rotating trivia themes and epic prizes. Grab food from the food carts and drinks from the beer truck. Think you’ve got what it takes? 7-9pm. Free.

The Capitol The Capitol Karaoke Music Weekly Karaoke at its finest! Central Oregon’s premiere karaoke experience has just moved locations! Now at the Capitol! Drink specials! Air guitars! Come see for yourself. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Cellar Open Mic Open mic at The Cellar hosted by Mari! 6-8pm and all are welcome! 6-8pm. Free.

Cheba Hut Trivia Tuesdays Prizes, drink specials, good vibes! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom Open Mic StoryTellers open mic nights are full of music, laughs and community. Mason James is the host. Poetry, comedy and spoken word are welcome, but this is mainly a musical open mic. Performance slots are a quick 10 minutes each, so being warmed up and ready is ideal. If you wish to perform sign-ups start at 5pm in the cafe. 6pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Fried Pies Fried Pies brings together some of Bend’s busiest musicians to celebrate the music of Wes Montgomery, Grant Green and the bluesy, soulful side of ‘60s jazz. Featuring Dillon Schneider (Cascade School of Music, Jazz Staple), Matthew Williams (Chiringa, etc) and Mark Karwan (Watkins Glen, Etc). Toe-tapping good times. 7-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Head Games Trivia Night Live multi-media trivia every other Tuesday at Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5, Bend. Free to play, win prizes, teams up to 6. Please arrive early for best seats. Every other Tuesday, 6-8pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia Tuesdays at Elements Public House UKB Trivia is experienced, independent, locally owned and operated! Team up to win house gift cards! 7pm. Free. M&J Tavern Karaoke Sing your heart out in downtown’s living room. 8pm-Midnight. Free.

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger Come to Trivia Tuesday at Mountain Burger! Fun and prizes await! 7:30-9pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Karaoke with DJ Chris Ossig Karaoke with DJ Chris. 7-9pm. Free.

Pinky G’s Pizzeria TRIVIA NIGHT Test your knowledge in a casual/laid-back atmosphere. Pizza, beer and trivia. Free to play and prizes for 1st and 2nd place. 6-8pm. Free.

River’s Place Bingo! Have fun, win prizes and support a local nonprofit organization. 6-8pm. $1-$5.

Silver Moon Brewing Blues Revival Night Bend’s blues jam featuring seasoned players. All skill levels welcome. 6pm. Free.

MUSIC

Sound Fourth! The Cascade Horizon Band and Festival Choir perform patriotic favorites in their annual concert. Sing along and celebrate America with us. July 4, 3-5pm. Caldera High School, 60925 SE 15th St, Bend, OR 97702, Bend. Contact: 541-410-3323. Free..

Spanish Summer Sounds: Learn Spanish Through Music Explore Spanish lyrics, expand your vocabulary and improve pronunciation through classic and modern songs. Registration is required for each session. Saturdays, 10-11:30am. Through July 19. Downtown Bend Library, 601 Northwest Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@deschuteslibrary. org. Free.

DANCE

Adult Ballet Class Come learn or rediscover the art of ballet on Tuesday nights! Adult Ballet is an open-level class for adult learners and dancers. Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 and 6:45-7:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-3824055. dance@ abcbend.com. Varies: Drop-ins $25, 4-Pack or Register receives a discount!.

Adult Jazz Dance Community Class Join nonprofit Bend Dance Project for intermediate level adult jazz drop-in dance classes. Friendly supportive atmosphere. Get your dance on! Fridays, 12:15-1:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 408-857-6773. jcliff@gmail.com. $10 donation.

Argentine Tango Classes and Social Dancing Tango 101 lesson at 6:30pm, followed by a práctica from 7:15-9:30pm. All levels welcome. Check Facebook for latest info. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 901-550-5671. aneezerk@gmail.com. $10.

Beginner Bellydance with Wendi Shimmy into summer with Wendi’s 6-week beginner-friendly bellydance course! Blend movement, music, and science as you explore posture, isolations, and layering. With 25 years’ experience, Wendi makes bellydance fun, empowering, and accessible—perfect for beginners or dancers looking to refine skills and deepen body awareness, technique, and musicality. RSVP: amirahfusion@gmail.com Mondays, 7-8:30pm. Through July 8. Unity Dance Collective, 917 NE 8th St., Bend. Contact: 317-997 - 1816. Amirahfusion@ gmail.com. $20.

Belly Dance Classes Expand your movement language by learning a variety of belly dance styles and build strength, grace, confidence and community. Classes include a functional fitness approach for alignment, longevity and safety in movement and body. Register at https://www. templetribalfusion.com/dance-bend. Every 7 days, 5-6:15pm. Private Studio, 123 Private Rd, Bend. Contact: 415-622-5323. https://www. templetribalfusion.com/dance-bend. $20.

Bend Dance Project Adult Community Drop-in Class Join nonprofit Bend Dance Project for an adult intermediate level drop-in dance class. Styles include classic jazz, street jazz, modern and lyrical. Teachers and styles rotate monthly. Supportive and welcoming atmosphere! Suggested donation $10. Fridays, 12:15-1:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-7281063. dancevelocity@live.com. $10.

Chrysalis Dance A transformative ecstatic dance type event for women, femmes, non-binary & trans folks to move the way their body wants to. Let the Chrysalis hold you in community movement and shed what’s ready to release. Please arrive on time for opening circle. Tickets at door or online. Space limited. Thursdays, 6:308:30pm. Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga, 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 112, Bend. Contact: 424-488-3323. amandalynmichael@gmail.com. $15-$30.

Fire Line Dancing Lessons Free dance lessons, alternating between swing and line dance sessions. Basic steps, fun for beginner and intermediate dancers. Great for all ages! Tuesdays, 7-8pm. Through Sept. 30. Blacksmith Public House, 308 SW Evergreen Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-604-8878. Free.

Indian Dance Classes Indian Classical & Temple Dance: excellent & supportive for any style of dance or athlete. Activate, balance and optimize your entire being, from the inside out! Includes yoga, hand gestures, sensual bends, head & eye postures and feet positions. Details and registration at www.templetribalfusion.com/ dance-bend. Wednesdays, 9:15-10:30am. Private Studio, 123 Private Rd, Bend. Contact: www. templetribalfusion.com/contact. $20.

Lindy Hop Swing Dance Lesson and Social Dance A vintage swing dance turned contemporary global phenomenon. Danced to classic jazz standards, Lindy Hop is an energetic, athletic and goofy way to connect with a partner. Lessons will focus on giving you the skills to connect confidently! Sundays, 6-9pm. Through July 13. The Space, 63830 Clausen Rd, Bend. $7-$12.

Soulful Sundays Conscious Dance

Sunday is a perfect time to step on to the dance floor being in the temple of our bodies, moving as prayer. At the altar all that is present and alive within us, between us, in the world. A facilitated and supported Soul Motion® practice of being with self, other, world, and spirit. Sundays, 1011:30am. Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga, 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 112, Bend. Contact: 541-948-7015. soulinmotionbend@gmail.com. $25.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Art is Work: Photographing Artwork

In this workshop led by Nancy Floyd, participants will learn basic tips and best practices for photographing and documenting artwork. Supplies and handouts included. Bring your preferred note-taking device and a personal camera if available to you. Space is limited, register now. July 7, 6-8pm. Scalehouse Gallery, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-362-1288. info@scalehouse.org. $35.

Art Viewing Visit Sagebrushers Art Society in beautiful Bend to see lovely work, paintings and greeting cards by local artists. New exhibit every 8 weeks. Visit Sagebrushersartofbend.com for information on current shows. Wednesdays, 1-4pm, Fridays, 1-4pm and Saturdays, 1-4pm. Sagebrushers Art Society, 117 SW Roosevelt Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-617-0900. Free.

The Cottage Craft Club Bring a craft, in-process project, garments for mending, or art supplies yearning to be used. We’ll settle into The Cottage at Pomegranate for a calm evening of crafting & conversation. Tea will be provided & some art supplies will be available for spontaneous creating! Free to attend. Sign-up required. First Wednesday of every month, 5-7:30pm. Pomegranate Home and Garden, 120 NE River Mall Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-383-3713. hello@ pomegranate-home.com. Free.

Custom and Handmade Knife Show

Discover the art of bladesmithing at the Central Oregon Handmade Knife Show! Featuring expert custom knifemakers, live forging demos, DIYcave knifemaking class information and a stunning selection of handcrafted collectibles. July 5, 9am-5pm and July 6, 9am-3pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. Free.

Fiber Art Gives Voice: A Yarnbombing Collective Are you a crocheter or knitter who would like to use you skills to be part of the Voiceless: A Musical? Join in on our group creative needle blast to create pieces for yarn bombing a public space. Sat, June 21, 10amNoon-Sat, July 5, 10am-Noon and Sat, July 12, 10am-Noon. Downtown Bend Library, 601 Northwest Wall Street, Bend. Free.

Intro to Fused Glass: Garden & Plant Stakes Brighten up your garden or potted plants with your own handmade fused glass stakes! In this fun and beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn the basics of fused glass design, cutting, and assembly while creating a set of colorful garden or plant stakes. No experience is necessary — we’ll guide you through! July 2, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $139.

Intro to MIG Welding (ages 13+) This hands-on class is perfect for beginners or anyone needing a refresher class in cutting and welding. You’ll cut steel with a plasma cutter and weld those pieces back together. You’ll get to try your hand at MIG welding. Tools and materials included. Mon, June 30, 6-8pm and Tue, July 8, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5413882283. classes@diycave.com. $139. Jewelry Workshop: Post/Stud Earrings: Learn To Solder Design and make two pairs of sterling silver post/stud earrings - explore various design options! You’ll get an introduction to the metalsmithing tools needed and learn how to cut and file silver sheet and wire, texture, solder, and oxidize metal. You’ll also learn how to recycle scrap silver, too! Sat, June 7, 10am-Noon and Sun, July 6, 10am-Noon. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Kids Beaded Earring Workshop (Ages 9 - 17) Get started on your jewelry-making journey with this fun and beginner-friendly class! In this two-hour workshop, young makers will learn how to design and create their own dangling beaded earrings using professional jewelry tools like pliers, wire cutters, and earring hooks. Students will leave with 2–3 pairs of custom earrings. July 7, 1-3pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $99.

Rebecca Sentgeorge Watercolors

Rebecca Sentgeorge is exhibiting watercolor paintings based on her years of living in China and Japan. The exhibit will be in the mezzanine gallery June-July. June 1-July 31. Touchmark at Pilot Butte, 1125 NE Watt Way, Bend. Contact: 541-238-6101. rsentgeorge@gmail.com. Free.

Sewing and Leather Open Studio Come and practice your sewing and leather making skills with our guidance. Open Studio provides the perfect opportunity to spend a fun afternoon honing your skills. Develop the skills you learned in the sewing and leather classes you have taken and begin making your visions come to life! First Thursday of every month, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $20.

Two Week Wheel Intensive—5 Classes Wheel throwing two-week intensive at Synergy Ceramics! Meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for two weeks, then glaze everything you make on a Sunday! This condensed learning format is great for muscle memory and learning quickly. Come join the fun in the pottery studio! No experience needed- mixed levels. Tue, July 1, 6-9pm, Thu, July 3, 6-9pm, Tue, July 8, 6-9pm, Thu, July 10, 6-9pm and Sun, July 13, 10am-1pm. Synergy Ceramics, 1900 NE Division St, Bend. Contact: 541-241-6047. synergyceramicsbend@ gmail.com. $325.

Wood Turning 101 - Introduction to Turning On The Wood Lathe Learn the basics of the wood lathe. In this class students will create an object from beginning to end which involves mounting a wood blank to the lathe, rounding, shaping, sanding, and finishing. July 6, 5-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-228-3382. classes@diycave. com. $184.

WoodShop Basics One - Table Saw, Chop Saw and Band Saw In this class you will learn how to use the table saw, chop saw and bandsaw. Once complete you will have the confidence to build utilitarian projects such as picnic tables, planter boxes, adirondack chairs and much more. You will also get 1 free hour in the Wood Shop. July 7, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $159.

Woodshop Basics Two - Router, Planer and Jointer In this class you will learn how to use the router, planer and jointer. Once complete you will be able to create more precise techniques for edges and dimensions to improve your furniture and fine woodworking projects. You will also get 1 free hour in the Wood Shop. July 8, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@ diycave.com. $159.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Artist Feature: Kathy Deggendorfer Makin’ It Local is honored to feature regionally acclaimed artist Kathy Deggendorfer. Two receptions are scheduled: July 11 and July 25. July 1-31. Makin’ It Local, 281 W Cascade Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-4722. Free.

Artist Showcase: Mitch Jewelry Makin’ it Local is honored to feature Central Oregon jewelry designer Ashley Scholtes of Mitch Jewelry. Ashley’s love of the metals process has led her to make quality pieces emphasizing longevity and design. June 15-July 15. Makin’ It Local, 281 W Cascade Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-4722. Free.

“Of Faith and the Human Experience” by Taylor Manoles Makin’ It Local is honored to feature original paintings and fine art prints by Taylor Manoles, an oil painter who lives in Bend. Her artwork explores themes of faith and the human experience through contemporary landscapes. June 1-July 31, 10am-6pm. Makin’ It Local, 281 W Cascade Avenue, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-4722. Free.

Bend Ghost Tours Join for Ghosts and Legends of Downtown Bend Tour and hear all about Bend’s permanent residents! Your spirit guide will lead you through the haunted streets and alleyways of Historic Downtown Bend where you’ll learn about the city’s many macabre tales, long-buried secrets and famous ghosts. Wednesdays-Sundays, 7:30-9pm. Downtown Bend, Downtown Bend, Bend. Contact: 541-3500732. bendghosttours@gmail.com. $25.

David Kreitzer Open Studio and Gallery The son of a Lutheran minister, Nebraska-born contemporary realist David Kreitzer paints stunning small and large meditative images of floral, landscape, figure and midwest beauty. Kreitzer began his professional career at the prestigious Maxwell Galleries in 1960’s San Francisco, on the vanguard of a revival of New Realism. Fridays-Sundays, 1-5pm. David Kreitzer Fine Art Gallery and Studio, 20214 Archie Briggs Rd, Bend. Contact: 805-234-2048. jkreitze@ icloud.com. Free.

Exhibition Opening: Art in the West Art in the West is an annual juried exhibition and silent auction featuring traditional and contemporary art that celebrates the landscapes, wildlife, people, cultures and history of the High Desert. The entire collection will be on exhibit at the Museum and will be available for online viewing June 27th. July 5, 9am-5pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-3824754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. $17.

Healing Waters: New Show by Contemporary Realist Painter David Kreitzer Contemporary realist painter David Kreitzer presents “Healing Waters”-an exhibition of oil images of translucent, sparkling, emerald and turquoise lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Kreitzer paints meditative and healing images of peace and beauty in the style of the old masters. 20% of proceeds will be donated to the St. Charles Foundation. Ongoing, 8am-7pm. St. Charles Medical Center, 2500 NE Neff Rd., Bend. Contact: 805-234-2048. jkreitze@icloud.com. Free.

Museum Closed! Happy Independence Day! The Museum is closed. July 4, 9am-5pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@highdesertmuseum.org.

THEATER

Liza’s Lounge presents “Joy” Come treat yourself to decadence and live music at Liza’s Lounge. Think 54 Below—live piano bar in the heart of New York City. Dress is “creative black tie.” Come treat yourself to a taste of pure indulgence and entertainment at Bend’s elite theater space. Thu, July 3, 7:30-10pm, Fri, July 4, 7:30-10pm and Sat, July 5, 7:30-10pm. The Greenhouse Cabaret, 1017 NE 2nd St., Bend. Contact: 541-699-2840. info@thegreenhousecabaret.com. $99-$125.

WORDS

“Voice: Who’s Telling Your Story?” with Meg Fancher You can attend this program in person or take part online. We’ll explore how a distinct voice can construct reader expectations for characterization and the emotional parameters of a story itself. July 8, 5:30-7:30pm. Downtown Bend Library - Brooks Room, 601 NW Wall St,, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1063. beccar@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Current Fiction Book Club We will discuss “The Librarianist” by Patrick DeWitt. July 2, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-3066564. julie@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

ETC.

Sisters 4th Fest Car Show This spectacular event will showcase an impressive array of pre-1974 classic cars. Don’t miss the chance to admire these vintage beauties and celebrate Independence Day with us. July 4, 7:30-11am. Downtown Sisters, Hood Avenue., Sisters. Contact: rotaryofsisters@gmail.com. $28.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

2nd Annual Doggolympics Get ready for a tail-wagging good time! This year’s Doggolympics promises to be bigger and better, with four exciting events: obstacle course, high jump, sprint and trick routines. July 5, 10am-4pm. Greg’s Grill, 395 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend. Contact: 818-770-9929. hungryhoundbend@ gmail.com. Free.

Bend Adult Volleyball Bend Hoops adult open gym volleyball sessions offer players a chance to get together and enjoy some competition. To sign up, go to meetup.com and RSVP. Bring exact change. Sundays, 7-9pm and Saturdays, 7:30pm. Bend Hoops, 1307 NE 1st St, Bend. $10.

Bend Rugby 50th Anniversary Golf Tournament Bend Rugby turns 50, and we’re kicking off the celebration with a golf swing! Join us July 4th at Lost Tracks Golf Club for our 50th Anniversary Golf Tournament. July 4, 8am-5pm. Lost Tracks Golf Course, 60205 Sunset View Dr., Bend. Contact: 503-851-1894. joinbendrugby@ gmail.com. $120.

Building with Natural Materials: Community Building Project Over three sessions, participants will work together to create a sculptural windbreak on PMRCAA property. Participants will gain knowledge and experience using natural and reclaimed materials in an architectural application. Mon, June 30, 3-6pm, Tue, July 1, 3-6pm and Mon, July 7, 3-6pm. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, 68467 Three Creek Rd., Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0700. moriah@roundhousefoundation.org. Free.

Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge The Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge is a self-guided hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic peaks. Explore new mountains, test your limits and level up your outdoor experience. Head to https://socialhiker. net to learn more. April 20-Dec. 31. Contact: support@socialadventures.net. $60.

Lava River Cave Tours Lava River Cave tours are a family friendly two-hour tour covering the geology and biology of our beloved lava tube. No hiking or caving experience is necessary. The guided tour is two miles with 180 stairs to descend into Lava River Cave. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 10am-Noon and 1-3pm. Through Sept. 2. Lava Lands Visitor Center, HWY 97, Bend. Contact: 541-383-4043. laken.bose@discovernw.org. $60. Outdoor Yoga Step into the fresh air for an all-levels outdoor yoga class! Classes offering sun salutations and creative yoga sequences to spark heat, amp up your endurance and build strength and flexibility. Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays-Saturdays, 9:15-10:15am. Through Sept. 14. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. $22.

Redmond Running Group Run All levels welcome. Find the Redmond Oregon Running Klub on Facebook for weekly run details. Thursdays, 6:15pm. Contact: rundanorun1985@gmail. com. Free.

Roller Skate Jam! Come skate with us— quads and inlines welcome! We throw down at the courts off SE Wilson, next to the skatepark. Music, dancing, rolling and a friendly community of welcoming skaters. All levels and ages welcome. Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Ponderosa Park, 225 SE 15th St., Bend. Contact: 206-334-8488. joe@ joe-walker.com. Free.

Wild Ochocos: Opportunities and Threats to Public Lands in the Ochoco National Forest The Ochocos are full of wild landscapes, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife habitats. Despite this, the Ochocos are threatened by federal and state proposals to increase logging and reduce public access on these public lands. Join Oregon Wild staff to learn about this special forest and opportunities to protect it. July 2, 6-7pm. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-382-2616. Free.

VOLUNTEER

Bird Survey Site Orientation Ready to take the next step in your Land Trust bird survey orientation? Then join the Deschutes Land Trust for a site orientation at Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. We’ll show you where to survey, what routes to follow and share important details about property rules and boundaries. July 2, 1-2pm. Indian Ford Meadow, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Bunny Rescue Needs Volunteers

Looking for more volunteers to help with tidying bunny enclosures, feeding, watering, giving treats, head scratches, play time and fostering. All ages welcome and time commitments are flexible — weekly, monthly or fill-in. Located at the south end of Redmond. Email Lindsey with your interests and availability: wildflowerbunnylove@gmail.com. Ongoing.

Dog Adoption Event Hosted by Amazing Dogs Rescue Dog adoption event at PetSmart hosted by amazing dogs rescue. Check out adoptable dogs online at amazingdogs.org Every 2 weeks at PetSmart 11-1pm. Every other Sunday, 11am-1pm. PetSmart, 63455 N. Highway 97, Bend.

NeighborImpact Volunteer Opportunities Support NeighborImpact and its programs! Register as a volunteer, then browse open opportunities. Roles needed: Food Bank, HomeSource, facilities, special events and more! Mondays-Fridays. NeighborImpact Office - Redmond, 2303 SW First St., Redmond. Contact: 541-419-2595. grantj@neighborimpact.org. Free.

Redmond Family Kitchen Dinner Family Kitchen is continuing to provide nutritious meals to anyone in need, now in Redmond! Volunteers prepare dinners and clean up afterward. Email Tori with any questions or sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/ RedmondDinner Mondays-Fridays, 2-4:30pm. Mountain View Fellowship, 1475 SW 35th St, Redmond. Contact: 631-942-3528. tori@familykitchen.org. Free.

Thrive Moving Volunteers Support your neighbors by helping them move to their new home. If interested, fill out the volunteer form or reach out! Ongoing. Contact: 541-728-1022. TCOmoving22@gmail.com.

Volunteer at the Bend ReStore If you want to help make affordable homeownership a reality for individuals and families in Central Oregon, consider volunteering at the Bend ReStore! Ongoing, 9am-5pm. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 224 NE Thurston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-312-6709. Volunteer@brhabitat. org. Free.

Volunteer CASAs Needed CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. They are community volunteers who advocate solely for the best interest of children and youth in foster care. Our pre-service training classes are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advocate for these children. Apply today at casaofcentraloregon.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Rosie Bareis community campus, 1010 NW 14th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1618. enoyes@casaofcentraloregon.org. Free.

Volunteer for Foster Dogs Volunteer to be a dog foster parent! There is a huge need and it is very rewarding, giving you a sense of purpose. Each dog is special. Thursdays. Contact: 458292-8362. HDRescueoregon.com.

Volunteer Opportunity! Volunteers wanted: Mustangs to the Rescue (MTTR) a (5013c nonprofit) desires help with all aspects of horse care. No experience necessary. Call 541-3308943 and leave a message. Mondays-Sundays, 9am-4:30pm. Mustangs to the Rescue, 21670 McGilvray Road, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8943. volunteer@mustangstotherescue. Free.

Volunteer with Salvation Army The Salvation Army has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for almost every age. Salvation Army has an emergency food pantry, the groups visit residents of assisted living centers and make up gifts for veterans and the homeless. Ongoing. Contact: 541-389-8888.

Volunteer, Feed the Masses! At Family Kitchen, the mission is to serve anyone who needs nutritious meals in a safe and caring environment. They have tons of volunteer needs - servers, cooks, shoppers, and more. Groups and teams wanted! Monthly or quarterly opportunities! Visit familykitchen.org/volunteer to fill out a volunteer interest form. Mondays-Sundays. Family Kitchen, 231 NW Idaho, Bend. Contact: tori@familykitchen.org. Free.

Volunteer: Help Businesses Prosper!

Share your professional and business expertise. Become a volunteer mentor with SCORE in Central Oregon. The chapter is growing. Your experience and knowledge will be valued by both new and existing businesses in the community. To apply, call 541-316-0662 or visit centraloregon. score.org/volunteer. Fri, Aug. 26 and ongoing. Contact: 541-316-0662.

Volunteering in Oregon’s High Desert with ONDA Oregon Natural Desert Association is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting, defending and restoring Oregon’s high desert. They engage the public in their work to improve the health of desert ecosystems by leading guided, small group, volunteer service trips in some of eastern Oregon’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Visit www.onda.org/trips to find the full calendar and descriptions of current volunteer trip offerings. Ongoing.

Volunteers Needed for Humane Society Thrift Store Do you love animals and discovering “new” treasures? Then volunteering at the HSCO Thrift Store is a great way to combine your passions while helping raise funds to provide animal welfare services for the local community. For more information visit the website at www.hsco.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Humane Society Thrift Shop, 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3840. abigail@hsco. org.

Volunteers Needed! Calling all horse lovers! Happy Trails Horse Rescue needs volunteers! Can you help us help horses? New volunteer orientation the first and third Sundays at 10 am or call to schedule! Every other Sunday, 10-11am. Happy Trails Horse Rescue, 18929 Couch Market Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-241-0783. hthrvolunteer@yahoo.com. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

The Beaver Den Book Club Beavers are remarkable animals that shape ecosystems through their dam-building and habitat creation, influencing other species and environmental processes. To better understand their impact, we host a monthly science reading event where we critically evaluate research papers on beavers. Join us to discuss and explore these fascinating studies together. First Wednesday of every month, 6-8pm. Bend CoWorking, 150 NE Hawthorne Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-699-1606. maureen@thinkwildco.org. Free.

Bend Cars & Coffee on 27th Street Bend Cars and Coffee on 27th Street happens first Saturdays, May-Oct. at 1270 NE 27th St. in Bend. Bring your rare, unique, weird, rusty, expensive, collectible rig to the Bend Naz Church parking lot, 8am-10am. Meet new friends!! $1 Coffee $2 Richards donuts. Sat, May 3, 8-10am, Sat, June 7, 8-10am, Sat, July 5, 8-10am, Sat, Aug. 2, 8-10am, Sat, Sept. 6, 8-10am and Sat, Oct. 4, 8-10am. Bend Church of the Nazarene, 1270 NE 27th St., Bend. Contact: bendcarsandcoffee@gmail.com. Free.

Bend Chess and Go Club Casual gathering for players of Chess and Go/Baduk/Weiqi. Informal and welcoming to players of all skill levels. We love teaching new people! Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 425-354-8867. leifawiebe@gmail.com. Free.

Bend Pinochle Club $7 for non-members. If you have any questions or desire more information please contact us at bendpinochle@gmail.com or go to our website (bendpinochle.com) for details. All ages welcome. Thursdays, 11:30am-3pm and Fridays, 11:30am-3pm. Golden Age Card Club, 40 SE 5th St, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1752. Free.

Bend Ukelele Group (BUGs) Do you play Uke? Like to learn to play? Beginners and experienced players all welcome to join the fun every Tuesday at 6:30-8pm at Big E’s just off 3rd street near Reed Market. Go play with the group! Tue, Dec. 6, 6:30pm and Tuesdays, 6:30pm. Contact: 206-707-6337. Free.

Central Oregon Badminton Come and join the badminton group in Central Oregon. All levels welcome from beginner to experienced. Instruction, racquets, birdies available, 10 fee to play, can pay in cash at the event or in advance at Bend Badminton on Meetup.com. Saturdays, 6-8pm. Bend Hoops, 1307 NE 1st Street, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4994. sheena_fischer@yahoo.com. $10.

Connect W’s Munch & Mingle Join ConnectW for a monthly noon gathering where professional women of Central Oregon connect over meaningful conversations. Held on the first Thursday of every month, this exclusive event fosters business growth, social networking, and genuine friendships. Seating is limited to 12. Registration is required with website link provided. July 3, 11:45am-1pm. Feast Food Co, 546 NW 7th St, Redmond. Contact: 541-410-1894. info@connectw.org. Free.

ConnectW - Munch and Mingle in Redmond ConnectW is connecting professional women over a limited-seating, monthly noon meal every first Thursday of the month. Business sharing, social networking and friendship. Attendance is capped at 12 and registration is required to save your seat at the table. Price is cost of meal. First Thursday of every month, 11:45am1pm. Madaline’s Grill & Steak House, 2414 Hwy 97, Redmond. Contact: info@connectw.org. Free. The Focus Club Distraction-free coworking and speed networking for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Learn and practice powerful techniques to hone your focus, lessen distraction and beat procrastination. First Thursday of every month, 9:30am-Noon Through Oct. 3. The Haven CoWorking, 1001 Southwest Disk Drive, Bend. Free.

Loss to Suicide Support Group The goal of this group is to create a community for those navigating the devastating loss of loved ones by means of suicide, provide education on the process of grief and coping skills in forging a path forward. Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm. Through July 30. Partners In Care, 2075 NE Wyatt Court, Bend. Contact: admin@clearmourning. org. $5-$30.

Lower Black Butte Swamp Beaver Dam Analog Maintenance This is a fourday project to bolster potential beaver habitat on public land near Sisters. Join us for one day or all four days! Mon, July 7, 9am-5pm, Tue, July 8, 9am-5pm, Wed, July 9, 9am-5pm and Thu, July 10, 9am-5pm. Lower Black Bute Swamp, 44°22’04.3”N 121°37’41.0”W, Black Butte Ranch. Contact: maureen@thinkwildco.org. Free.

Marijuana Anonymous Marijuana Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share the experience, strength and hope with each other that we may solve our common problem and help others to recover from marijuana addiction. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using marijuana. Entrance on Staats St. Mondays, 5:30-6:30pm. Bend Church, 680 NW Bond Street, Bend. Contact: 541-633-6025. curbdaherb@gmail.com. Free.

Mountain Muskrats Monthly Meeting

Your unexpected Central Oregon dive experience begins here. The Mountain Muskrats is an independent dive club set on exploring Central Oregon’s waterways. Join the club! First Saturday of every month, 5:30pm. The Den Dive Shop, 56881 Enterprise Drive, Sunriver. Contact: 541-600-9355. thedendiveshop@hotmail.com. $100 annual club fee.

Singles Mingle & Speed Dating Calling all Central Oregon singles! Join us every First Friday for Speed Dating & Singles Mingle. This a 21+ event. Co-hosted with Central Oregon Singleites and All Things Love Match Making Service. $5 door fee donated to local charity. Enjoy great wines and stimulating conversations! See you there! First Friday of every month, 6-8pm. Through Dec. 6. The Bend Wine Bar & Winery Tasting Room, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. Contact: info@bendwinebar.com. $5 plus beverages.

Sunday Fun Day Game Day Come join us for games and fun. We have ping-pong, darts, cornhole, Pac Man and board games. Enjoy music, fun and happy hour prices Noon-6pm. Sundays, Noon-10pm. Through Aug. 31. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

Table Tennis Sundays Come have fun with round-robin table tennis on Sunday afternoons. We have paddles and balls but feel free to bring your own. Enjoy happy hour prices and great food. Tournaments and prizes coming. Sundays, 4-10pm. Through Sept. 30. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free. Terrebonne Taphouse Takeover Grab a pint & meet some cool folks at your new favorite weekly hangout. Every Wednesday we take over the lawn at Redpoint for casual networking, lawn games and more. Family-friendly. Wednesdays, 5-6pm. Through Sept. 27. Redpoint Climbing, Coffee & Taps, 8222 US-97 N, Terrebonne. Contact: 541-604-2115. Free.

Volunteers needed for VegNet Bend

Volunteer opportunities for VegNet Bend include - Event coordinators, executive board service, potluck themes, potluck and event setup and tear down, marketing, website maintenance, help with fundraising, cooking demos, film screenings, speaker presentations and more. Nonprofit 501 c3. Free, donations welcome. Ongoing. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: 541-480-3017. Judyveggienet@yahoo.com.

FUNDRAISING

Not’cho Grandma’s Bingo Silver Moon partners with The YOUNI Movement to guarantee the best bingo experience in all of Central Oregon! Not’Cho Grandma’s Bingo is the OG of bingo, high energy bingo that promises to entertain from start to finish! Bingo cards are $25 per person. Family friendly fundraising! Free general admission, $10 early entry. Sundays, 10amNoon. Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-639-1730. hello@ younimovement.com. $10-$200.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Bonfire Wednesdays Fuel the night with fire, friends and ice-cold drinks! Meet travelers, jam out to tunes and chow down from the food carts. Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Through Oct. 15. Bunk+Brew Backyard, Bend. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

Baby Ninja Summer 5-Week Series

Classes include exploration through soft-obstacle Ninja Warrior courses to develop coordination and balance skills. Plus yoga fun, songs, parachute play, and bubbles! 5-week series, multiple days/ times of the week to choose from, age 10 - 24 months plus parent/caregiver. Fridays, 9-9:45am. Through July 25. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $110.

Fencing Learn the Olympic sport of fencing! High Desert Fencing Club offers instruction in Foil and Epee for 9-year-olds through adults. We offer a one-time free trial lesson on Tuesdays with a reservation. Fencing gear provided. Please email us at HDFencing@gmail.com to arrange a date for your free trial lesson. Mondays-Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. High Desert Fencing Club, 61445 S. Hwy 97 Suite D, Bend. Contact: 541-419-7087. hdfencing@gmail.com. Free.

Fourth of July Festival and Bike Parade Delight in carnival-style games, free entertainment and a variety of booths at this ticketed event that benefits local nonprofit organizations. Register for the bike parade that kicks off the festivities at villageatsunriver.com. July 4, 11am-3pm. The Village at Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver. Contact: 971-404-5412. events@ alpine-entertainment.com. Free.

Impulse Summer Camp Give your child an action-packed summer with our exciting themed camps! Each week is filled with games, activities, and hands-on learning in a fun and supportive environment. July 7, 9am-4pm. Impulse Elite, 63625 Old Deschutes Road, Suite 120, Bend. Contact: +1 541-233-3012. info@impulseelitecheer.com. $269.

Kid’s Night Out Drop off the kids ages 4-12 for a fun time at Kids Night Out! Pizza, games and jumping from 6-9pm. Purchase tickets online ahead of time as space is limited. Adult staff does roll-call 4 times per night, Kids remain on-site until pickup. Fridays, 7-9pm. Mountain Air Trampoline Park, 20495 Murray Road, Bend. Contact: 541-647-1409. info@mountainairbend.com. $30.

Chakra Explorers: A Summer Yoga & Watercolor Series for Families Adventure yogi, Alyssa, from Soul Trip + mother and local artist Michelle Schultz are coming together to bring Bend an unforgettable yoga and painting series for families! Join for silent disco family yoga followed by a meditative watercolor class where you learn about and embody the chakras through play. Tuesdays, 10-11am. Through July 15. Pioneer Park - Bend, 1565 NW Wall St, Bend. Contact: 760-846-4891. alyssa@soultrip.co. $45.

Chocolate Making Tour of Bend Special discount through the holiday season! Normally $89, now $79. Participants will enjoy a behind the scenes look at how this local award-winning dark chocolate roaster creates its incredibly savory product. Learn about the origins of the cacao seeds from different regions of the world and how the entire roasting process works. Make your own chocolate bar from liquid chocolate that will be packaged for you to take home. Enjoy some red wine or hot cocoa along with a variety of samples. If you choose to purchase some additional chocolate bars, ask about special wholesale pricing. Be sure to act quickly as tours are limited in size. Kids welcome. Please call 541-901-3188 with any questions. Mondays-Saturdays, 3pm. Seahorse Chocolate, 1849 NE Second St., Bend. Contact: 541-901-3188. $79.

Cosmic Jump Night A Cosmic Party turns the bright lights off and the party lights on! It’s time to glow! Wear white or bright clothing for the full effect, ages 12 and up recommended. Saturdays, 7-9pm. Mountain Air Trampoline Park, 20495 Murray Road, Bend. Contact: 541647-1409. info@mountainairbend.com. $23.

Early Childhood Summer Camp for Children ages 3 to 7 Looking for a nurturing, enriching summer experience for your little one? Our Waldorf Summer Camp is the perfect opportunity to explore the magic of Waldorf education in a fun, creative environment. It’s also a great way to try out our school before committing to a full school year! Mondays-Fridays, 8:30am-3pm. Through Aug. 8. Waldorf School of Bend, 2150 NE Studio Rd. Suite 2, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8841. info@bendwaldorf.com. $2720.

Kids Ninja 6-Week Series Challenging Ninja Warrior circuits will keep your kids developing new skills. They will feel empowered as they improve speed, increase strength, become more coordinated, and enhance athletic abilities. 6-week series, multiple days/times of the week to choose from, age 6 - 9, drop-off. Tuesdays, 4:15-5:15pm. Through July 22. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $142.

Kids Studio! Drawing from Life Explore the wonderful world of drawing! In this class we’ll work with ink, conte, and charcoal. We’ll learn how to create a gesture drawing, a continuous line drawing, a scribble drawing and draw on toned paper. We will be drawing ourselves, our friends and a still life. July 3, 9:30am. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail. com. $50.

Krav Maga Self Defense Self Defense Techniques for Men and Women of all ages and teens. Learn how to defend against a variety of attacks (punch, kick, choke etc) and weapons (guns, knives, clubs). Classes are held Tuesday to Friday evening and Saturday morning. First class is free. Saturdays, 10am. Cascadia Krav Maga, 2525 Twin Knolls Rd #9,, Bend. Contact: 541-223-9953. tim@cascadiakravmaga.com. Free.

Little Leapers: A 2-Year-Old, Grown Up & Me Dance Class! Little Leapers is a Grown Up and Me curriculum for children that captures the joy and wonder of ‘firsts’. Saturdays, 9-9:30am. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4055. dance@abcbend.com. Free.

Mini Ninja 5-Week Series Your children will develop important coordination skills, improve balance, and build confidence as they tackle Ninja Warrior obstacle courses designed around a weekly theme. 6-week series, multiple days/times of the week to choose from, age 2 - 3 plus parent/caregiver. Fridays, 10-10:45am. Through July 25. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $110.

Nano-Ninja 6-Week Series Through positive direction, your children will gain confidence while enhancing balance, increasing strength, improving focus, and enhancing body awareness through Ninja Warrior obstacle-based gymnastics and climbing. 6-week series, multiple days/ times of the week to choose from, age 4 - 5, drop-off. First Monday of every month, 4:305:20pm. Through Sept. 1. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $142.

Nike Girls Basketball Camp Join us at Cascade Middle School in Bend during summer 2025 for an unforgettable basketball experience! Sharpen your skills with dynamic drills, competitive games, and attentive coaching. Develop leadership abilities, boost your basketball IQ, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment. Mon, July 7, 9am-Noon-Tue, July 8, 9am-Noon-Wed, July 9, 9am-3pm and Thu, July 10, 9am-3pm. Cascade Middle School, 19619 SW Mountaineer Way, Bend. Contact: 916-337-3600. kristina@gymxbend.com. $385.

R.A.D. Adventure Day Camps Outdoor adventure programs for ages 4-17, blending unstruc tured play with guided exploration across Central Oregon’s forests, lakes and trails. Mondays-Fridays, 8am-4pm. Through Aug. 29. Seven Peaks School, 19660 SW Mountaineer Way, Bend. Contact: 541204-0440. info@radcamps.com. $89-$99.

R.A.D.

Camps Summer Day Camps

R.A.D. Camps summer day camps for children ages 4-6, 7-12, & 13-17. Programs for ages 7-12 start at 8 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Teen programs operate every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit radcamps.com or email info@ radcamps.com for more information. Registra tion NOW open! Mondays-Fridays, 8am-5pm. Seven Peaks School, 19660 SW Mountaineer Way, Bend. Contact: 541-204-0440. info@rad camps.com. $99-$109.

Red, White and Blue 3 Miler Special youth pricing! Registration comes with a pancake and sausage breakfast! Register now! Sold out last year! July 4, 7:45-10am. Village Green Park, 335 S. Elm St., Sisters. Contact: 971-409-8461. kelly. bither@gmail.com. $29.

Sisters 4th Fest A family-friendly Inde pendence Day celebration. Includes pancake breakfast, classic car show, live music from the Dry Canyon Stampede, line dancing, a fun run, fire truck tours, pie eating contest and kids’ zone. July 4, 7am-12:30pm. Village Green Park, 335 S. Elm St., Sisters. Contact: 541-760-6132. mike. corwin@comcast.net. Free.

Summer Camp for Children ages 7-12 **Farm Theme** Experience the Magic of Waldorf Farm Camp! This summer, immerse your child in the enriching world of farming with our Waldorf Farm Camp, a unique hands-on experience. Children will enjoy meaningful activities exploring the rhythms of life on the land. These experienc es foster a sense of wonder, gratitude, and a lifelong connection to the natural world. Mondays-Fridays, 8:30am-3pm. Through Aug. 1. Waldorf School of Bend, 2150 NE Studio Rd. Suite 2, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8841. info@ bendwaldorf.com. $332-$415.

FOOD + DRINK

Bend Farmers Market The Bend Farmers Market is a true farmers market dedicated to supporting the viability of local farmers, ranchers and food producers who offer fresh local produce, protein and farm products to the people of Central Oregon. Wednesdays, 11am-3pm. Through Oct. 9. Brooks Alley, downtown Bend, Bend. Contact: bendfarmersmarket@gmail.com. Free.

Farmers Market Farm-fresh produce straight from local growers! One-of-a-kind products: handmade, unique and full of character! Live music, food and beer—because Sundays should be fun! Free Community Booth supporting local nonprofits and initiatives! Sundays, 10am2pm. Through Sept. 28. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-241-6310. Free.

Luckey’s Woodsmen Grand (re)Opening Pig Out!! Luckey’s Woodsman is throwin’ down to celebrate being a part of the patio and also part of the Century Center! Whole smoked pig. Cold pints. Good vibes. Century Dr employees eat free! Come welcome this awesome team to the neighborhood!

here’s wHat yOu neEd to kNow:

In orDer for yOur vote to coUnT anD make sure we get tHe mosT acCurate resulTs, folLow tHese simPle rules. Don’t worRy. YoU’ve got tHis!

Return your print ballot to the Source Weekly by Fri., July 12th by 3pm. (If you’re sending via snail mail, your ballot must arrive by Fri. the 12th).

Online voting opens July 3rd at Noon and closes at midnight on Sun., July 14th.

You must use ballots found inside this issue of the Source Weekly, or submit your votes through the online poll at bendsource.com. No photocopies or faxes will be counted. Enter only once.

*Open camera on phone and hold up to QR code to click on link. Scan qR code to filL oUt balLot inStanTly onLine!

Fill in votes in at least 25 categories. This is mandatory. Don’t be a ballot-box stuffer! Readers may nominate the same business in no more than three categories. Make no mistake, we WILL toss out any ballots that go over that limit.

Include your name and email address. (No name = no vote).

The very best way to cast your vote is online at bendsource.com, or you can submit your ballot to:

SoUrCe WeEkLy 704 Nw GeOrGiA Ave., BenD, or 97703

Email info@bendsource.com, or call 541-383-0800 QuEsTiOnS?

NAME: EMAiL:

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Flannel Friday Happy Hour Come on down in your Northwest best for Happy Hour! 4-6pm every Friday. $2 off drafts, $1 off everything else. Fridays, 4-6pm. Contact: taryn@ thealeapothecary.com. Free.

Happy Hour at Mountain Burger Happy Hour happens every day at Mountain Burger! Ongoing, 3-5pm. Mountain Burger, 2747 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-668-7177. info@mountainburgerbend.com.

Happy Hour at Viaggio Wine Merchant Our summer happy hour is on! $7 and $8 glasses of wine, cold beer and delicious discounted snacks (Combined makes up a perfect summer evening dinner, btw!) Join us daily 3-5pm inside in the cool air conditioned bar or outside on the patio lounge. Cheers! Tuesdays-Sundays, 3-5pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by Purchase.

Happy Hour Every Day Make every afternoon a little brighter with a hint of British charm at The Commonwealth Pub! From 3-5pm, enjoy drink specials and a cozy pub vibe that’s perfect for winding down. $3 PBRs $5 RPMs $6 Margaritas $7 Wine Happy Hour bites from Whappos! Mondays-Sundays, 3-5pm. Through Dec. 18. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-668-6200. thecommonwealthpubevents@gmail.com. Free.

Industry Appreciation Day! 20% off for all Industry friends! Wednesdays, 2-8pm. Contact: taryn@thealeapothecary.com. Free.

Industry Night Every Sunday is Industry Night! If you’re a bartender, server, chef, cook - anyone in the biz - come unwind with: $5 Hornitos or Monopolowa, $7.50 draft domestic beer + well whiskey, and $3.50 tallboys & $10 man-mosas (on special for all!). You work hard-cheers to you! Sundays-Noon-2am. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-3833000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free. In homage to our fellow industry folk, featuring $3.33 Lagers, $6.66 Saisons & 10% off at A Broken Angel. Present your server or food handlers card at the bar. Tuesdays, 1-8pm. Through June 17. Funky Fauna Artisan Ales, 1125 NE Second St., Bend. Contact: 458-328-0372. danielle@funkyfaunabeer.com.

Introduction to Wine Tasting Experience Unlock the “secrets” of wine tasting at our educational seminar where you will learn how to professionally evaluate wine based on its unique components. You’ll enjoy a guided tasting of four carefully selected wines, each chosen to highlight a distinct aspect of the wine-tasting process. Saturdays, 4-5:30pm. Through July 31. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $50.

Ladies Night Hey ladies! Come out for $8 limoncello-spiked bubbles and $2 off all menu cocktails every Thursday. Thursdays, 2-10pm. Bar Rio, 915 NW Wall St., Bend. Free.

Locals Day! Locals Day at the Ale! $2 off drafts and $1 off wine and cider! Wednesdays, 2pm. The Ale Apothecary Tasting Room, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: taryn@thealeapothecary.com. Free.

Locals’ Day Come on down to Bevel Craft Brewing for $4 beers and cider and $1 off wine all day. There are also food specials from the food carts located out back at The Patio! Tuesdays. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: holla@bevelbeer.com. Free.

Locals’ Night at WaypointBBC Locals’ Night at WaypointBBC! $5 draft beer, $8 house red and white wine and $8 specialty cocktail. Tuesdays, Noon-10pm. Waypoint, 921 NW Mt Washington Dr., Bend. Contact: 458-206-0826. Waypointbbc@gmail.com. Free.

Power Hour Come check out our new Power Hour deals: $3 draft Coors Light, $5 draft beer, food cart specials that will make your taste buds dance! Mondays-Thursdays-Sundays, 8-9pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: 458-256-5454. midtownyachtclub@ gmail.com. Free.

Sangria Sundays Like Sundays in Spain, just add paella. Every Sunday, 2pm-close at Bar Rio in Downtown Bend. Sundays. Bar Rio, 915 NW Wall St., Bend. Free.

Survive the Frozen North Adventurers needed in Icewind Dale! Over four sessions, you and your party will brave deadly cold, uncover ancient secrets and stand against the wrath of a bitter Goddess. Level 3 Characters, 6 players max, ages 21+. July 8, 6-9:30pm. Pangaea Guild Hall, 652 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 541323-0964.

Suttle Lodge’s Wine on the Deck Series: Hundred Suns Wine Join us every Tuesday this summer for wine made in the Pacific Northwest, poured by some of our best local winemakers and paired with seasonal small plates from our Skip Kitchen.This week, we’re excited to welcome Grant Coulter and Renée Saint-Amour from Hundred Suns Wine. Gratuity included in ticket price. July 8, 6-7pm. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: 541-323-0964.

Taco Tuesdays Join us for a margarita & three tacos for $20! Follow us on Instagram for our specials, live music and events. Tuesdays, 2-10pm. Bar Rio, 915 NW Wall St., Bend. Free. Wine Mondays! Every Monday night all glasses of wine are $9! This is an opportunity to try wines from our vast wine list all night long and pair with either tasty small plates or delicious dishes by creative chef Nikki Munk. Mondays, 4-9pm. Portello Wine and Spirits, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-385-1777. admin@portellowinecafe.com. Free.

Wine Wednesdays Wine up and wind down, all glasses $10. Every Wednesday, 2pm-close at Bar Rio in downtown Bend. Wednesdays. Bar Rio, 915 NW Wall St., Bend. Free.

Wings + TRIVIA + Whiskey Enjoy $0.75 wings, $4.50 well whiskey, $6 seven & sevens while testing your knowledge with Trivia, hosted by our amazing Cole! Take on our infamous “physical” challenge - think paper airplanes, musical chairs, limbo etc! Come eat, drink and bring your A-game! Wednesdays, 7pm. JC’s Bar & Grill, 642 NW Franklin Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-3833000. jcsbend@gmail.com. Free.

Yappy Hour at the Crater Lake Spirits

Tasting Room A dog-friendly happy hour with craft cocktails, free pup cups and a spacious dog park. Enjoy sunshine, sips and tail wags all summer long. All friendly, social dogs welcome. Leashes required outside the dog park. See you there! Thursdays, 3-5:30pm. Through Aug. 28. Crater Lake Spirits Distillery Tasting Room, 19330 Pinehurst Rd., Tumalo. Contact: 541-3180200. socialmedia@craterlakespirits.com. Free.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Bend Rugby Summer Camps Join us for four mornings of fun, fitness and rugby skills! June 30-July 3, 9am. Big Sky Sports Complex, 21690 Neff Rd., Bend. Contact: 503-851-1894. joinbendrugby@gmail.com. $100-$120.

Capoeira Mixed Levels Community

Experience the exciting Brazilian art form of freedom, incorporating martial arts attacks, creative escapes, acrobatic movements, music and much more. Call to coordinate please. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 7-8:30pm. High Desert Martial Arts, 63056 Lower Meadow Dr. Ste. 120, Bend. Contact: 541-678-3460. ucabend@gmail.com. $40 for a taster month.

Central Oregon LGBTQ+ Peer Connection Online Support Group A peer-led support group for adults (ages 18 and older) who identify as LGBTQ2SIA+ and are living with mental health challenges. A diagnosis is not required to participate. This group is facilitated by Central Oregon peers. Schedule: Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Every other Tuesday, 6-7:30pm. Contact: 541-316-0167. info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Concussion Support Group Hoping to learn more strategies for improving your memory and efficiently healing your brain after concussion? Come join our adult therapy group! Connect with others who have experienced concussion, practice strategies, and learn from other related professionals on a variety of topics related to concussion recovery. Every other Tuesday, 4-4:45pm. Through Feb. 3. Sagebrush Speech Therapy, 604 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: info@sagebrushspeech.com. Free.

Couples Massage Classes Explore a nurturing way to connect with your sweetheart in a couples massage class with Taproot Bodywork. Learn to relax your partner without hurting your hands! 2 or 4-hour classes, one couple per session. Additional days/times are available. Visit www.taprootbodywork.com for details. Every other Saturday-Sunday. Taproot Bodywork studio, Tumalo, Tumalo. Contact: 503-481-0595. taprootbodywork@gmail.com. Price varies. Gather Sauna House Join Gather Sauna for opening weekend of sauna season at the river in Riverbend Park! Our traditional sauna sessions include authentic wood-fired sauna and natural river cold plunges + ample time to connect with nature and reset you mind/body/spirit! Pre-book your session online. Wednesdays-Sundays. Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: 503-830-6393. info@gathersaunahouse. com. $36 a seat for a communal session.

Men’s Connection Group Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you looking to make personal changes and take responsibility for creating the life you want? Do you want more connection and support ? If so, join us for an evening of sharing, support and connection. Mondays, 6:30-8pm. Living Undone, 33 NW Louisiana Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-408-1174. teddyfowler@gmail.com. Free.

Mini Yogi 6-week Summer Series

Join the family yoga fun! Each class is designed around a theme and includes age-appropriate yoga sequences, partner poses, songs, and mini obstacle course to help with kids’ social, mental, and physical development! 6-week series, age 3-5 plus parent/caregiver. Tuesdays, 4:305:15pm. Through July 25. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend@ gmail.com. $132.

Motivation and Goal Setting Workshop

It’s a great time to redesign your life. Make use of your time at home by setting and reaching goals in a free Zoom workshop. Certified Life Coach Jacquie Elliott is hosting a motivation and accountability workshop on the first Monday of the each month. Email her at coach@jacquieelliottclc.com for the link. First Monday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. Contact: coach@jacquieelliottclc.com. Free.

NAMI Connection Peer Support Group

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. Mondays, 7-9pm. Contact: 503-230-8009. info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

NAMI Mental Health Peer Support Group: Madras NAMI’s Peer Connection Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for adults living with mental health challenges. You will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by NAMI-trained facilitators who’ve been there. 1st & 3rd Fridays of each month. First Friday of every month, 1-2pm. Madras Senior Center, 860 SW Madison., Madras. Contact: 541-316-0167. support@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Outdoor Silent Disco Yoga Summer is here and we are ready to get outside! Headphones will be provided and we will be curating fun playlists for this energetic Vinyasa flow! Saturdays, 9:3010:30am. Through Sept. 6. LOGE Bend, 19221 SW Century Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-728-3630. info@ stillwateryoga.org. $10.

Outdoor Yoga Flow Step into the fresh air for an all-levels Vinyasa Flow Yoga class! Sun salutations and creative yoga sequences to spark heat, amp up your endurance and build strength and flexibility. Leave class feeling utterly reju venated! Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays-Sat urdays, 9:15-10:15am. Through Sept. 13. Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $22.

Pre-Show Flow: Silent Disco Outdoor Yoga Join us for Pre-Show Flow, a weekly silent

By Julie Hanney

Seventh Mountain Resort's Summer Music Festival

The Rusty Frets are set to play this holiday weekend

Just six miles southwest of downtown Bend off the Cascade Lakes Highway, you will find the iconic Seventh Mountain Resort, formerly known as Inn of the Seventh Mountain. Every Friday night from late spring through August they are hosting free live music on their skating rink. With a variety of leather couches set up, and plenty of space to bring your own chairs or blankets, it's one of the most chill and beautiful outdoor spots to hear live music this summer.

The entire summer lineup can be found on their website and there truly is something for every musical taste, from funky R&B by Heller Highwater to Country Western dance music by Dry Canyon Stampede. This holiday weekend the Rusty Frets, a reggae band based in Bend, will play on Friday, July 4 from 5-8pm. I spoke with Darcy Erickson, bassist and leader of this group of stellar local musicians. the Source: I see that your band collaborated with G. Love on your song “Swervy,” which is pretty crazy. How did that come about?

Darcy Erickson: It was really random and really lucky. It was when Tyler was still in the band [he has since moved out of the state] and we were just practicing one day and we came up with this funky groove, and he kept saying, “This sounds like a G. Love song.” And so he, I thought jokingly, said, “I'm just going to reach out and see if he wants to do a collaboration,” and I was like, OK. Well, the next day Tyler was like, “I reached out and he said he was interested!” Sure enough, he had reached out on Instagram and said, “Here is a rough copy of the song,” and G. Love liked it. We went into the studio the next week and threw it down and threw it to him. He recorded his part and threw it back, and we mastered it. The rest is history.

tS: It's wild that G. Love checks his own Instagram.

DE: Yeah, for real! You're not wrong. He's still that kind of a guy, and I knew it in my heart of hearts. He's Gen X, so I knew he was checking his own stuff.

tS: What is the origin story of the Rusty Frets?

DE: The band was put together by Tyler, and at the time he was playing bass for Rubbah Tree. He put an ad on Facebook for a bass player and I

stumbled across it. I'm fairly new to the Bend music scene, I've been here about five years. I moved here from Boise and I've been playing in bands in Boise for a long time... twenty-plus years. The drummer, Dylan Bernal, he's in a bunch of different bands like the Mostest. And Steve Miller, our guitar player, has been a local legend forever. Andrew Lyons, the sax player, is also kind of a legend. And we have Stephan Kalani, who is classically trained, on keys. I'm really lucky to have fallen into the talent pool that we have here.

tS: You are a reggae band, but you do some awesome covers and other genres of music. How do you describe your style?

DE: We all come from different musical backgrounds, so we all bring a little different flavor. “Swervy” has more of a funky feel, and then our very first song “Tide Keeps Rising” is more like traditional, straight-up reggae. The songs we have been writing most recently are kind of all over the board. Definitely one has a little more ska influence, one has a little more West Coast reggae feel, one is a little slower. It's easy to call us a reggae band, because we are, but we don't want to box ourselves in as just a reggae band.

tS: To me, I feel like your music is feel-good music. It makes you want to dance, smile and have a good time.

DE: Yes, smile music. I wish that was a genre.

The Rusty Frets Friday, July 4, 5-8pm Seventh Mountain Resort 18575 SW Century Drive instagram.com/therustyfrets Free

By Katey Trnka

‘Femme Forward’

Local musician Mari pushes for more opportunities for women

When local musician and sound engineer Mari started hosting Ladies Night open mics almost three years ago, the outdoor space at Bunk+Brew was the perfect setting for her to amplify the voices of femme artists and build community. It turns out lots of folks were hungry for con nection, though, and a combination of popularity and weather changes all but forced Mari to look for a larg er (indoor) space. She’s since hosted Ladies Nights more regularly at Sil ver Moon Brewing, and the event has only continued to grow, leading Mari to think even bigger.

“I was building up [Ladies Nights] at Silver Moon, and they started hav ing a pretty good turnout. I’ve been able to pay musicians off of ticket sales pretty well,” she says. At the same time, Bunk+Brew wanted to bring Ladies Night back, but the ever-grow ing turnout at Silver Moon gave Mari pause. “I decided to start something new at Bunk+Brew but still have a sim ilar concept.” Hence, Femme Forward, a new event that will highlight women musicians and vendors while also rais ing funds for women-focused nonprof its, was conceived.

The first Femme Forward will take place on Thursday, July 10, at Bunk+Brew, with 50% of the ticket price going toward Planned Parent hood. Mari is still researching nonprof its that could be potential beneficiaries of future events, but says Planned Par enthood was an obvious choice for the inaugural showcase. “Everything in this country is uneasy…feeling like our choices [about our bodies] could be taken away, it feels like Planned Parenthood is something that’s really important to support.”

Summer’s Sweetest Score: The Return of the Perfect Peach

Chasing the sweet, messy magic of peak peach season

By Donna Britt @donnabrittcooks

There’s a magic to Oregon summers—the long light, the dusty trails, the rivers that never stop running.

But if you ask me, one of the best parts of this short, golden season is the return of the peach. Real peaches. Not the sad, mealy kind you settle for in January. I’m talking soft, juicy, sun-ripened perfection. The kind that drips down your chin before you can say “napkin.”

Peach season in Oregon runs from July through October, and when it arrives, I shift into full fruit-stalker mode. I’m scanning market stalls, pulling over for roadside stands and gently squeezing my way through baskets like a produce sommelier on a mission.

This obsession didn’t come from nowhere. I blame my great-granddad Ernie, who had a peach orchard right across the street from where I grew up. From the time I was big enough to toddle around in his shadow, we’d walk the rows together, his hand wrapped around mine. When the peaches were ready, he’d slice one open with his pocketknife and hand it to me, no plate or napkin in sight. I’d smash that soft, golden fruit into my face like it was the last food on Earth.

They were that good. So good that I refused to eat much else. My poor mother was constantly scrubbing peach juice out of my clothes and rolling her eyes every time I turned down dinner in favor of one more bite of fruit-fueled bliss.

So yes, I am a peach snob. I admit it. And if you tell me you don’t like peaches, I’ll try not to judge you. But I’ll assume—kindly—that you’ve only had the sad, underripe grocery store version that tastes like cotton and disappointment. A truly ripe peach is another story entirely.

So here’s my mid-summer PSA: go get some peaches. Find the good ones. The ones that are still warm from the sun, that smell sweet before you even bite in. Eat them standing over the sink if you have to. Life is short and peach season is shorter.

Once you’ve devoured a few fresh, unadorned, and standing in your kitchen in total silence (respect the ritual), you can get a little fancy.

• Slice them into a caprese salad with fresh basil and mozzarella for a sweet-salty combo.

• Stir up a pitcher of peach iced tea that’ll make your next backyard barbecue sing.

• Go classic with peach pie or rustic with a peach crostata.

• If you’re feeling ambitious, try homemade peach ice cream and prepare to ruin all store-bought versions for yourself forever.

Need help picking a good one?

Here’s your peach shopping cheat sheet: Gently press near the stem. It should give just a little, soft but not squishy. And if it doesn’t smell like a peach? It’s not ready. Peaches continue to ripen off the tree (thanks to their climacteric nature, for you fruit science nerds), so it’s OK to buy them slightly firm and finish the job at home.

Store ripe peaches in the fridge’s produce drawer. They like it cool and a little humid. But don’t wait too long as they’re highly perishable and they won’t be at their peak for more than a few days.

Peach Crostata

Makes one pie

• 1 regular size pie crust

• 2 pounds fresh peaches

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons spiced rum

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 1 tablespoon heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons raw sugar

• Vanilla ice or freshly whipped cream, for serving

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Roll the pie crust out into a big circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the pie crust onto a rimmed baking sheet, then keep in the freezer or fridge while you work on the peaches. Cut the peaches into quarters, then

Peach Iced Tea

Makes one pitcher of tea

Simple Syrup

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced plus more for serving if desired

Tea

• 3-5 black tea bags

• 8 cups fresh water

Bring sugar, water and peaches to a boil in a small saucepan. Lower heat and use a wooden spoon to stir and crush the peaches to infuse the flavor. Once the sugar is dissolved,

I'd smash that soft, golden fruit into my face like was the last food on Earth. They were that good. So good that I refused to eat much else.

cut the quarters into quarters, for a total of 16 slices per peach. Discard the pits.

Toss the peaches in a big mixing bowl with the brown sugar, cinnamon, spiced rum, vanilla extract, lemon juice and flour. Set aside for a few minutes.

Dump the peaches, along with any of the liquid in the bowl, onto the center of the rolled out pie crust, leaving a 2 inch rim on all sides of the peaches.

Gently fold the sides of the pie crust up and over the peaches, then brush the crust with heavy cream. Sprinkle raw sugar on top. Bake for about 40 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the peaches are bubbling. Serve warm with ice cream or freshly whipped cream, if desired.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

cover, remove from heat and let steep for 25-30 minutes.

In the meantime, brew your tea and let it steep no longer than 4-5 minutes or it can get bitter. Once brewed, remove tea bags and transfer to a pitcher. Refrigerate to cool.

Once simple syrup is steeped, pour it into a container over a fine mesh strainer to strain out peaches. You can reserve the peaches to use over ice cream or in oatmeal.

Before serving add all of the simple syrup to the tea and stir. Serve tea over ice with fresh sliced peaches.

Your Cooler Called — It Wants Real Food: Easy Camping Provisions for Happy Campers Fresh eats, no freeze-dried regrets

By Donna Britt @donnabrittcooks

Let’s talk about the real reason anyone tolerates sleeping in a nylon bag on the ground — the food. Not granola bars and foil pouches of mystery mush. We’re talking honest-to-goodness meals you actually want to eat. Just because you’re heading into the woods doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to beef jerky and astronaut ice cream. With a little prep at home, your campsite spread can be fresh, satisfying and practically effortless.

The goal is simple: delicious make-ahead meals and snacks that pack and store well, require minimal gear and clean-up and keep you far away from the shelves of sodium bombs at the supermarket or outdoor store. Whether you're flying solo, road tripping with friends or wrangling the whole dang family, here's how to eat like a trailblazer without turning your trip into a cooking marathon.

First Rule of Camp Kitchen: Make It at Home

Your camp meals should work as hard as you did to pack the car. The best camping food is made before you even zip your duffel shut. At home, you’ve got a full kitchen, a dishwasher and access to fresh herbs. Use them.

Chili, Stews and Curries: These one-pot wonders are camping royalty. Make a pot of lentil curry, veggie chili or white bean chicken stew a day before you leave. Store it in leakproof containers or freezer bags and keep it in your cooler. If you want to really plan ahead, you can work days or weeks in advance, freeze the chili or stew in a large freezer bag (make sure you lay it flat to freeze) and then use that frozen pack of food as an ice pack in the cooler. At camp, reheat it in a saucepan or skillet over a small propane stove or fire until bubbling. Bonus points if you bring a little container of chopped cilantro or shredded cheese for topping.

Marinated Meats or Tofu: Pre-slice chicken, beef or tofu and toss it in your favorite marinade before freezing it flat in a zip-top bag. It’ll double as an ice pack in your cooler and be ready to sizzle over a campfire grill grate or pan. Serve with tortillas or rice and a squeeze of lime. No forks required.

Cold Pasta or Grain Salads: Think couscous with roasted vegetables or orzo with sun-dried tomatoes and feta. These are sturdy and satisfying and don’t need to be heated. Eat them straight from the container on your lap while watching the sunset through the pines.

No-Cook Champions

You’ll want a few items that require zero flame and zero effort. These are the foods that’ll keep you from hangry decisions and desperate trail mix dinners.

Overnight Oats or Chia Pudding: Prep a few jars with oats, chia, plant milk, nut butter and fruit. They’ll keep well in a cooler for up to three days. Eat cold with a spoon — no cooking, no cleanup.

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Protein-packed and picnic-ready. Peel them at home to save time at camp.

Wraps and Sandwiches: Tortillas travel better than bread. Pack a stack of tortillas and stuff them with hummus, sliced veggies, cheese or deli meats. Wrap tightly in foil or parchment so you can grab and go.

Snacks That Feel Like Real Food: Trail mix is fine, but roasted chickpeas, veggie chips, cheese sticks, dried fruit and homemade muffins or energy bites are even better. Store in reusable containers or beeswax wraps to cut down on trash.

Breakfast for the Brave

When you're ready to fire something up in the morning, keep it simple.

Breakfast Burritos: Make and freeze at home with eggs, potatoes, cheese and salsa. Wrap them in foil. At camp, heat them over a grate or directly on the coals until hot and crisp.

Pancake Batter in a Bottle: Mix dry ingredients and milk at home and pour into a cleaned-out squeeze bottle. Squeeze onto a greased pan and flip when bubbly. Add fruit or nut butter and suddenly you’re the hero of the forest.

Campfire Toast and Fruit: Bring a loaf of good bread and toast it on a stick or grill. Spread with nut butter or jam. Add banana slices or apples. Somehow this feels like a feast at sunrise.

Packing It Right

A little organization makes a big difference.

• Use clear containers or labeled bags so you can find what you need fast.

• Freeze any dish you plan to heat later — it stays cold longer in your cooler.

• Layer your cooler strategically. Frozen or raw meats on the bottom, things you need often (like snacks) on top.

• Invest in one sturdy cutting board, one sharp knife and a small pan or pot. That’s all most meals will require.

And don’t forget cleanup. Bring biodegradable soap, a small sponge and a collapsible tub. Or better yet, make meals that don’t even dirty a dish.

The Case Against Freeze-Dried Food

Sure, pre-packaged camp food is convenient, but it’s expensive and often tastes like regret. And honestly, that’s the stuff for serious backpackers and mountain climbers, not the casual weekend camping crew. Homemade camping food feels like care. It’s cheaper, healthier, more satisfying and it tastes great! Meals that were prepped with intention taste like home, even when you’re far from it or just a few miles down the Cascade Lakes Highway. So next time you're packing for the great outdoors, skip the plastic pouch stew. Fill your cooler with real food, your thermos with coffee and your stomach with joy. You’ll be too full for regrets and way too happy to miss your microwave.

LITTLE BITES

By Nic Moye

Nashville Night

The Blacksteer Steakhouse & Saloon is pivoting

The Blacksteer Steakhouse & Saloon at the north end of Bend is undergoing a makeover. It’ll close on July 4th for nearly a month as the new owner, Susan Anderson-Korinzer, remodels, rebrands and relaunches with an entirely new menu in August.

To kick off the reopening, Anderson-Korinzer is offering a special themed Nashville night on July 25. The intimate experience will offer country music where the stories behind the songs matter as much as the music itself. The idea is inspired by the legendary Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee. That casual, intimate setting played a significant role in the careers of Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks and Keith Urban. Backyard Music Company is providing the musicians. That’s a touring company specializing in providing Nashville-style musicians in a small, cozy setting. Anderson-Korinzer says the $35 admission tictket will give customers a “listening room” feel, featuring two to three acoustic songwriters. There will be a limited number of tickets. If sales reach 100, Anderson-Korinzer will add a second night. Doors will open at 4pm, giving guests time to enjoy cuisine from Nashville including BBQ and deep fried pickles. Drink specials will include a Tennessee Mule or Blueberry Lemonade. Music begins at 5pm. After

the performance, guests can explore merchandise and experience the newly renovated restaurant with a sneak peek at the new menu. If it goes well, it may become a quarterly event.

Anderson-Korinzer has been a manager for the Blacksteer Steakhouse, but is now the sole owner with a silent partner. She’s reworking the menu to include a raw bar with oysters, ceviches, prawns, duck confit with braised purple cabbage, beef wellington spring rolls and a lot of BBQ. She plans a more tapas-style menu in the saloon with a happy hour. The steakhouse/BBQ menu will be in the main dining room.

The revamped Blacksteer Steakhouse & Saloon will reopen to the public on Friday, August 1.

Nashville Night Fri., July 25 4pm

Blacksteer Steakhouse & Saloon

63455 N Hwy 97 #118, Bend

https://lu.ma/Blacksteer $35

Blacksteer Steakhouse & Saloon

Reopens Fri., Aug. 1

Sun.-Thu. 11am-8pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-9pm

63455 N Hwy 97 #118, Bend blacksteersteakhouse.com

LITTLE BITES

By Nic Moye

Flights Wine Bar Earns Prestigious Award

It’s the first wine bar in Bend to receive the award

Flights Wine Bar announced it received the 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award of Excellence. Owner Kelsey Daniels says it’s the first woman-led restaurant in Central Oregon to achieve the prestigious recognition and Bend’s first wine bar to receive the award.

Daniels, who’s a Certified Sommelier, said in a news release, “Our wine list is a living, breathing creature – and a wild one at that.”

Flights Wine Bar specializes in wines from around the world. It offers guided tasting flights, pairing the wine with specially crafted dishes.

"We operate on a rotating system: as soon as one bottle runs out, something new takes its place," Daniels says. She founded the wine bar in 2021.

“I really wanted a space that presented options for everyone, from champagne lovers to local wine fanatics, while including an elevated food program but keeping the casual, welcoming wine bar vibe intact,” she says. “It’s an honor that a publication as renowned as Wine Spectator has recognized our commitment to this city.”

This year, 2,010 restaurants nationwide received an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator which recognizes restaurants whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.

“This award reflects years of dedication to not just wine and food, but to creating a place where people feel welcomed, inspired, and curious.”

“This award is such an exciting milestone for our small team,” Daniels says.

The Brickhouse Steakhouse in Redmond also received the Award of Excellence this year. The Bend Brickhouse first received the award in 2011.

Flights Wine Bar

Tue., 3-8pm, Wed.-Sat., 3-9pm 1444 NW College Way, Bend flightswinebend.com/

Brickhouse Steakhouse Everyday 4-9pm 412 SW Sixth St., Redmond 5 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend brickhousesteakhouse.com/

Come see why Cafe Sintra Sunriver is a locals favorite for breakfast and lunch!

Make a Splash This Summer

Outside In has your swim style covered. Dive into our handpicked selection from Carve Designs, where function meets fashion in every stitch. Sun, water, and adventure await. Are you ready?

Shop now at Outside In. Your summer starts here.

845 NW Wall St, Bend, OR (541) 317-3569

CULTURE

Rather than wax eloquent on the benefits of going to social gatherings, being vulnerable and experiencing life outside of your comfort zone, I actually got off my couch and attended (or attempted to attend) four different group activities in Central Oregon. It sounds cliché to say that these experiences changed my life, and yet they did... in ways big and small.

Just browsing through the Source calendar listings will give you more than enough options to consider for broadening your social connections. Add to that the many possibilities on Meetup. com, Facebook events and gatherings held by local businesses, and you have a plethora of activities to interest everyone from teen to octogenarian. So, then, the problem isn't a lack of things to do, but perhaps it's sometimes a motivation issue. An object in motion stays in motion, said the late Sir Isaac Newton. And, yes, an object chilling on the couch with Netflix tends to... well, they don't call it “binge-watching” for nothing.

Art Night at Hanai, a beautiful event space off Eagle Road, was my first intentional venture out into the great world of community. It was hosted by a woman named Erika along with Around the Bend: Central Oregon Intentional Community. On one Tuesday evening a month you are invited to bring whatever art project you are currently working on, and to hang out with others while doing it. I sat at a table where two women were already painting, and over the course of the evening we engaged in a little bit of art making and a lot of talking. It was fascinating to me how easily conversation flowed between perfect strangers as we dipped paint brushes and sketched. More people joined our table as the evening progressed until we were a group of five, all seated at one of several round

In Praise of Getting Off the Couch Netflix

is nice, but human-to-human interaction can change your life

By Julie Hanney

tables in the glass-walled room. As each newcomer approached the table, they seemed a little nervous and unsure. However, within minutes they would be chatting, laughing and visibly relaxing. Art was the stated reason for the gathering, but it seemed what we all truly craved was connection. I hit it off with many artists, those at my table and others as I ventured around the room. I will definitely be going to the next Hanai Art Night on Tuesday July 15 at 5pm.

Next up in my quest for comfort zone expansion was Scrabble Night, which is held every Wednesday at 6pm at Market of Choice in the upper level of the

consonants... and we chatted about all the life things that come up over Scrabble: from highest score ever to annoying HOAs. It was a ton of fun even though I scored last in both rounds. (Wah, wah...) Playing games is a great way to slowly get to know others in a non-threatening, natural way. I will go hang with Tony and the Scrabble crew again after I have spent some time memorizing a bit more of the Seventh Edition of the Scrabble Dictionary.

For my third adventure I took part in a poetry workshop hosted by the Deschutes Public Library at the Sunriver Branch. Led by published poet Car-

…community sometimes happens on a walking trail on a weekday morning in early summer. The common denominator is getting out there. It's not so hard, really. And the benefits are still making me smile.

cafe. Tony, leader of the Bend Trivia and Word Game Group, listed the event on Meetup.com, and he was a gracious host, seemingly born for this kind of thing. The Scrabble players assembled that night numbered six, including me and my husband. Two games are played each evening with winners and losers changing tables in between the rounds, and these players are Good with a capital G. Many of those odd two and three letter words utilizing high-scoring tiles had been memorized by everyone, and I didn't dare challenge any of their words because they knew their stuff. Despite their advanced wordsmithing prowess, everyone was kind and welcoming. We laughed, we cheered, we lamented having all vowels, or worse yet, all

ol Barrett, the event was called Nature Poetry: Alive and Well in the High Desert. Carol led a warm and informative workshop on nature poetry and its forms and functions. We took turns reading aloud examples by poets including Mary Oliver, William Stafford and Matthew Friday, a published poet and one of the workshop participants, as well. At one point we were sent off for fifteen minutes to write a nature poem of our own. Mine was about spiders and my intense fear of them. I told of how I recently saved one of those athletic, speedy and jumpy ones by encircling her with a large plastic baggie and then setting her free outside. It was more poetic than I'm making it sound now... I think? We had the option to read our

newly created poems aloud to each other at the end of the workshop and everyone was brave, sharing their work. The participants were supportive and kind, which made it easy to be open and vulnerable. More library events and writing workshops are in my future, for sure. Finally, I registered on Meetup.com to attend a walking group that was to set out on a Wednesday morning at Shevlin Park. I was a bit late, so it seemed the group had left by the time I arrived at the picnic shelter. It was a glorious morning though, the sun still low and golden in the sky. I walked the river trail alone, basking in the non-silence. The aspen leaves rattling in gentle breeze, the river moving against rock, fallen trees, riverbed. A large approaching husky opened his mouth and said something like, “Rooooooh.” I asked his human if he was saying hello, and yes, the owner affirmed that his dog was greeting me. I stopped to scratch his furry neck, then walked along, greeting people warmly. Another dog wiggled up to me and kindly demanded a rub. A person passing by commented on the clear blue sky. I watched some birds with someone else on the path.

I never found the walking group I signed up for, but community sometimes happens on a trail on a weekday morning in early summer. The common denominator is getting out there. It's not so hard, really. And the benefits are still making me smile.

Resources for getting out and about meetup.com facebook.com/events visitbend.com visitcentraloregon.com

CULTURE

Last week, in the span of a few days, my daughter and two friends reached out, asking, “What should I read next?” This isn’t the first time I’ve been asked for a book recommendation. I do work in a bookstore, after all, and yet, each time, I get a little thrill.

Books are a matter of taste and what one friend might like, another might hate with a passion. Being asked to recommend a book is a sign that my friends, my daughter, and even customers in the store know that I see them, I understand not only what they like to read, but who they are in some small measure.

By asking “What should I read next?” they are implicitly saying, “I trust you to know what I need right now.” They are confident that I will know they need a funny and hopeful read, or they want a page-turner that will keep them hooked until the last page to distract them from their real-world troubles. Perhaps it’s my stepfather, whose mind is a complex and curious maze and loves nothing more than a heavy tome filled with facts of history that most of my friends and family would scrunch their noses at in distaste.

Building Connections Through Books What we read can lead to improved humanity

By Christine Bell, Bookseller at Roundabout Books and Cafe

He is equally captivated by “The Wide Wide Sea” by Hampton Sides, documenting the last journey of Captain Cook, as he is by a thick medical textbook. And because I also have a penchant for history, “The Wide Wide Sea” drew us closer across a geographic distance.

I am honored by every book recommendation request I receive, to have won the trust, to have a small window into someone’s mind; even if I may disagree with that individual on some of the meaty questions swirling in today’s world–politics or religion, most frequently. With the shared experience of a book read and enjoyed, those dividing lines melt away.

My mother-in-law and I don’t see eye-to-eye on most of these touchy topics, and we respectfully keep our conversations far from any fraught subjects. Yet, I knew she would love “Heart of Winter” by Jonathan Evison, the story of a long marriage with the ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies that necessarily transpire over 40 years of being together with another human being. The book spoke to her own experiences. We

both recognized ourselves in the wife, who struggled with the way her husband dealt with their difficult child, and her boredom and stagnation in her middle years. There is so much more to my mother-in-law than her point of view about immigration or U.S. relations with Iran. She is a kind, warm, funny human being who has been married for 60 years, raised four children to be good people, all while juggling laundry, cooking and a full-time job. Recommending this book was a way to tell her that I saw and understood her and that we had commonalities in our life experiences.

Books offer us a thread to connect with another human being, no matter whether you are best friends or strangers. A few months ago, I was sitting at the bar in 900 Wall next to a woman who was reading a book. I couldn’t NOT ask her what she was reading. It’s a compulsion I have, and when she told me she was reading Richard Powers’ “The Overstory,” a book I’ve heard much about but haven’t read, there was a spark of connection. I knew a little bit about her just by what she had chosen to read and this enabled

us to strike up a conversation about what other books we’d loved, as we sipped our drinks. When she left a few minutes later, I had made a small connection to another person, and it felt good.

When customers purchase their books at the cash register, the choices they’ve made give me nuggets of insight into their interests and their worldview. Most importantly, their reading choices give me an opportunity to connect with them about shared interests and passions.

These conversations are my greatest joy as a bookseller and what makes bookstores unique in the retail world. I won’t go so far as to say what you read is who you are, or that books are windows into our souls. But if a book gives us the opportunity to spark a connection with a neighbor, another community member, to build a bridge to another human being, then no matter the book, it has done more than its job of entertaining and educating. It has made our fraught world more hopeful. That book has let us be seen by another person in the world. And what’s more important than that?

Check out our bookseller’s favorites. Which recommendations connect best with you?

Below is just a sampling. For the full list of our Staff Picks visit: https://roundaboutbookshop.com/catalog/roundabout-books-staff-picks

SPECIALIZING IN

ASIAN AND DOMESTIC VEHICLES

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CULTURE

“Welcome the Night” High Desert Museum celebrates critters of the night

By Nic Moye

Several ecosystems begin to stir on land and in the air once the sun goes down. Most people don’t notice or are surrounded by too much artificial light to witness it. The High Desert Museum is offering a chance to “Welcome the Night.” The family friendly event on July 16 is an opportunity to discover creatures that stir at dusk and to learn more about why a dark sky is critical for wildlife. There will also be activities for children of all ages.

Experts will be on hand to educate the public, including representatives with DarkSky.

Scientific studies, cited by DarkSky Oregon, state that artificial light at night has negative and deadly effects on many creatures including amphibians, birds, mammals, insects and plants. Nocturnal animals sleep during the day and are active at night. Chad Moore, a National Park Service expert and program manager for the Park Service’s Night Sky Team, is quoted online as saying, “When we add light to the environment, that has the potential to disrupt habitat, just like running a bulldozer over the landscape can.” Birds that migrate or hunt at night navigate by moonlight and starlight. Artificial light can cause them to wander off course. Many insects are drawn to light. Declining insect populations can negatively impact species that rely on insects for food or pollination.

Experts from the U.S. Forest Service will be stationed near the pond during “Welcome the Night” to look for and discuss the importance of bats in the High Desert. In the meadow, volunteers from Pollinator Pathway Bend will explore the world of nighttime pollinators such as moths. Two owl encounters will take place during the evening at the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. As soon as it’s dark enough, staff from the Sunriver Nature Center will be ready with telescopes to explore the night sky.

The interactive “Forest at Night” exhibition will also be open. Guests can step inside the display to witness a forest illuminated by stars and moonlight with animated representations of nightlife in the High Desert like the white-lined sphinx, great-horned own, skunk, crickets and the long-tailed weasel.

Inside the museum, guests will have passports, which they can get stamped at various stations set

up throughout the building, Heidi Hagemeier, the museum’s director of communication and visitor experience, told the Source. One of the stations will be hosted by entomologist Dr. Jerry Freilich. He’ll have a microscope for the public to examine various insects.

There will also be games for children. One involves making a moth or bat headband for the Bat & Moth game. They can also get their face painted with their favorite twilight animal. Food and drinks will be available at the cafe, which will be run by Luckey’s Woodsman.

This is only the second time the museum has offered a “Welcome the Night” event. The first one was in 2023. The event begins at 6:30pm. Sunset on July 16 is 8:45pm. Anyone going is encouraged to bring a headlamp.

New Exhibit

A new art exhibit is opening at the High Desert Museum on July 5. “Art in the West” includes westernthemed paintings, photographs and sculptures. The fine art exhibit celebrates the people, wildlife, landscapes, cultures and history of the High Desert, which stretches from the eastern slope of the Cascades and Sierras to the Wyoming Basin and Colorado Plateau. There are nearly 120 pieces included, made by artists from around the country. Those will be a part of a silent auction. Online bidding begins July 5 at 9am and runs through Sept. 20. There is an opportunity to buy a piece outright without bidding. Proceeds raised will support the museum’s programs and exhibitions about science, history and art.

Welcome the Night

Wed., July 16, 6:30-9:30pm

High Desert Museum

59800 South Highway 97, Bend highdesertmuseum.org/events/ welcome-the-night-2025/?datetime=1414

$10 Adults & Children 3+

Art in the West

Sat. July 5-Sep. 20

High Desert Museum

59800 South Highway 97, Bend highdesertmuseum.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/ ArtintheWest2025/tabid/1547368/Default.

aspx

$24 Adults/ $17 Seniors/ $13 Children 3+

C Robopocalypse A Musical Sci-Fi Puppet Invasion Hits Bend at the Domino Room

By Julie Furnas CULTURE

Music! Horror! Science Fiction! Puppets! Yes, puppets are coming to Bend on Aug. 7 to showcase their new musical, Robopocalypse and this isn’t your average puppet show! Fresh off their celebrated and widely popular national tour, Puppeteers for Fears, brings their premiere all-puppet horror and science fiction musical comedy troupe to Bend, presenting a terrifying and hilarious new show that will have audiences rolling! Robopocalypse showcases cybernetic chaos, toe tapping tunes and laugh aloud mayhem only handmade characters can deliver.

From Page to Puppet

In a world still struggling to remember our email logins and passwords, the sudden takeover by sentient AI is more embarrassing than apocalyptic. Both imaginative and futuristic, blended with sharp satire, Robopocalypse is a hilarious cyberpunk escapade exploring the clash between human frailty and robot efficiency – set to an amazing musical score.

The musical draws inspiration from the techno thriller 2011 novel by Daniel H. Wilson. The story follows Cormac Wallace, a soldier in the Brightboy Squad, one of humanity’s last hopes in a war against an artificial intelligence named Archos, which uses robots and other machines to bring the world to its knees. Think Terminator with more emotional flashbacks and fewer explosions.

As the war ends, Wallace discovers a black cube, the size of a basketball, containing the entire history of the robot war. The black cube isn’t just data storage; it’s a "hero archive" that chronicles the rise and fall of the robot war, honoring the humans who gave their lives for the resistance.

The robots’ agenda was to share this information with their human enemies so the war would be remembered. Wallace is not initially interested in sharing the cube’s information with the other surviving soldiers; however, he changes his mind and honors the fallen humans. The climax of Robopocalypse is Wallace’s recounting of the recordings in the hero archive, in chronological order from the AI’s birth to its destruction, giving humanity a chance to remember, learn and heal. Will it work? Only the audience can find out.

Puppet Masters

The Ashland-based puppet troupe, Puppetears for Fears, was founded in 2015 when co-owner and artistic director Josh Gross wrote a one-night-only puppet cabaret horror show for Halloween.

After its enormous popularity, Gross, along with Aubrey Hollingshed, co-owner and technical director, created more live shows and have been entertaining audiences nationwide ever since. Combining puppet choreography, live music and video, each show is a truly unique experience. The cast and the crew include singers, actors, musicians and filmmakers coming together to perform something special time and time again.

Puppetears for Fears has written and performed a half-dozen original feature musicals including: “Cattle Mutilation: The Musical,” “Cthulhu: The Musical” and “The Trilogy of Terror!” and everything from supernatural monsters to killer robots to lonely sasquatches. Puppetears for Fears has performed all over the U.S. on six tours, and sold out venues nationwide. With its innovative and hilarious combination of puppetry, video, and live music accompaniment, Puppetears for Fears is one of the most unique live entertainment experiences that has come to Bend.

Whether you’re a musical theater nerd, loved The Muppets or curious about a puppet apocalypse, Robopocalypse offers a stage experience like no other. Part Black Mirror, part Rocky Horror, it’s all absurdly entertaining.

SCREEN

SC Formulaic One "F1" stays in its lane

By Jared Rasic

There’s nothing really that wrong with “F1,” the new film from Joseph Kosinski, the mastermind behind “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Tron: Legacy” and a few other films without colons. As someone with less than zero interest in Formula One racing, I found myself invested in the story, while still wishing the film would paint outside the lines of the racing movie formula. But, in a way, that’s what Kosinski did so brilliantly with “Maverick” also; he took a predictable story and made it ridiculously entertaining anyway. “F1” is more of the same.

Brad Pitt (who is living his best life in his Robert Redford era) plays Sonny Hayes, an aging and nomadic racer-for-hire who was, once upon a time, an F1 prodigy before a fiery crash left him without a career, a wife and deeply addicted to gambling. When old friend Ruben Cervantes (the always welcome Javier Bardem) brings him into his struggling F1 team, APXGP, the difficult Hayes must partner with Joshua Pierce (rising star Damson Idris), a brash and egotistical rookie who immediately butts heads with Hayes.

While it’s entertaining to watch Pitt and Idris clash egos, the real star of the movie is the racing, which involves the actors driving the cars (mostly) themselves with multiple small cameras and microphones stashed inside. Just as in “Maverick,” you very much feel like you’re inside the plane/car with them, going insanely fast. I found “F1” slightly less thrilling than “Maverick” simply because being in the sky is more exciting to me than being on a racetrack. Your, ahem, mileage may vary.

I was overjoyed to see Kerry Condon (robbed for the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “The Banshees of Inisherin”) as Kate McKenna, the technical director for APXGP team and love interest for Brad Pitt. I’m hoping this role bumps her into another stratosphere as an actress since she has long been one of the finest (and most underrated) performers of her generation. “F1” ultimately does her character a disservice

because the script becomes so invested in the romance between Kate and Sonny that it stops treating her like a genius designer and engineer and more like a stereotypical love interest. Condon can and will do better than this. She is one of the greats.

Still, if you’re into Formula One and racing movies, it’s absurdly entertaining watching Pitt and Idris doing what appears to be a lot of their own driving. At the end of the day, when movies hit all the stereotypical sport movie beats, it can be comforting (looking at you, “Creed”). Still, Kosinski is a hell of a filmmaker and there’s a breathtaking kineticism to the dance between his cameras and the cars that’s astonishing to witness, even as the characters and dialogue fail to transcend the genre.

“F1” is the definition of a crowd-pleasing summer blockbuster complete with a larger-than-life movie star, a backstage pass into a world we don’t know much

about, exciting races, a cute love story and a hero’s journey straight out of Joseph Campbell’s playbook. While there’s nothing new here aside from how some of the racing is filmed, the tropes are handled expertly by filmmakers who know what a mass audience wants to see with their family in tow. Can I nitpick the movie to death? Sure. Does the film play like a commercial for F1 racing? Absolutely. Will most people care? Not even a little.

Dir. Joseph Kosinski Grade: B

ENROLL IN YOUR FUTURE

Check out our great selection of Poke, available at our NWX café and market.

Come try our spicy shoyu nachos at our NWX café, or a poke bowl with steamed hot rice and your favorite two sides. Or pick up some Poke by the pound at the market for your next gathering!

· Daily made soups from scratch · Come see us at the Grove in Northwest Crossing

SC The Extinction of Awe “Jurassic World: Rebirth” fails to evolve

By Jared Rasic

Idon’t think this is much of a hot take, but here we go anyway: the only good Jurassic movies are the first two, the ones directed by Spielberg. I get that “Jurassic Park III,” “Jurassic World,” ”Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” and “Jurassic World: Dominion” have their fans and I’m sure that if you were a kid when one of those movies came out, then it was an imagination-shaping game-changer. I was 13 when “Jurassic Park” came out in 1993 and seeing that movie in the theater was the first time I can remember confronting how much transportive magic a film can have. I was Dr. Alan Grant, awestruck and stunned, looking at a dinosaur for the first time.

While “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” doesn’t quite have that same level of magic, it still feels like a masterpiece compared to the cartoonish “Jurassic Park III.” Maybe that’s the problem: I keep getting older and the “Jurassic” franchise keeps selling itself to the 13-yearolds. If I learned anything from the initial “Jurassic World” trilogy, it’s that I need characters to care about to make the dinosaur mayhem matter and, (hot take #2?) Chris Pratt has a ceiling on his abilities as a dramatic actor and is coming close to reaching that same ceiling as a comedic one. Three movies in a row of a character whose personality never breaks out of a cartoonishly smug masculinity is tiring at best.

As entertaining as some of the sequences are in that trilogy (the rampaging dinosaurs in a mansion from “Fallen Kingdom” were ridiculously stupid in a fun way), none of the movies ever captured any of the wonder or excitement that should be the bread and butter of this franchise. Even bringing back Sam Neil, Laura Dern and Goldblum wasn’t enough to keep “Jurassic World: Dominion” from being the absolute nadir of the series.

Yet somehow, I was still looking forward to “Jurassic World: Rebirth” and the franchise’s relaunch. Yes, I am a sweet summer child, but I still thought with Gareth Edwards in the director’s chair, it would at least be interesting to look at. His entire career has been built around putting fantastical creatures and robots in beautiful, real-world locations and his work with large-scale destruction in 2014’s “Godzilla” and 2016’s “Rogue One” made me think he would give a tactile breath of life to the series. Plus, David Koepp, the writer of “Jurassic Park” and “The Lost World,” was returning and a cast featuring charismatic actors with range like Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali and Jonathan Bailey was also a positive sign.

That might be the saddest thing about the entire “Jurassic” franchise at this point: “Rebirth” is probably the best film in the series since “The Lost World,” but that doesn’t remotely make it a good movie. It’s probably the most disappointing one I’ve seen in a while since all the ingredients are there for a quality blockbuster, but it just sits there flat onscreen, generating no tension, no excitement and certainly no wonder.

Which is actually the best idea in the entire film: the average person is annoyed and bored with dinosaurs. No one cares anymore. So InGen (the EEEEvil company playing God) has been Mad Scientist-ing Dino-DNA on an island in the Atlantic to try and create something that makes dinosaurs lucrative again. This goes poorly, people die and some time later, a mercenary (ScarJo), a paleontologist (Bailey), a skipper/badass (Ali),

a pharmaceutical rep (Rupert Friend) and some redshirts all go to the island to harvest some of that sweet, sweet biomaterial.

It’s intermittently fun to watch these good actors trying to make something out of Koepp’s lazy script and Edward’s lifeless direction, but that only lasts for a few minutes. The rest of the time, I was left to ponder random plot holes, wonder how much money this would make and imagine a world where a filmmaker manages to capture just the slightest bit of magic again inherent in the original film…and that’s when it hit me. Maybe it’s impossible to recapture that magic. Spielberg is a once-in-a-generation populist filmmaker and, just as he did with “Jaws,” Raiders” and “E.T.”, he held lightning in a bottle with “Jurassic Park.” I know it’s possible to grow up and still feel the wonder of cinema because it was there as recently as seeing “Sinners” for the first time, but maybe, just like the everyday people in the world of “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” maybe I just don’t give a shit about dinosaurs anymore.

Even if it doesn’t give me that same sense of wonder like I felt as a kid, I still think it’s possible to make an exciting dinosaur movie. Here are a few ideas:

1. Stop setting them on tropical islands. We’ve seen it. Let's put Raptors in Brooklyn or Pterodactyls in Detroit.

2. Build interesting characters that aren’t just generic mercenaries or scientists (or terrified children).

3. These movies have no tension anymore. Remember the kids vs. raptors in the kitchen in “Jurassic Park” or Julianne Moore vs. gravity in “The Lost World?” Insanely intense sequences. Create situations where characters we care about are in ever-escalating danger and audiences will care, I promise!

4. Have a script with people speaking like human beings instead of expository machines.

5. Find scary ways to use the classic dinosaurs again instead of constantly inventing new ones that look

hilarious. There’s a new one in “Rebirth” called the (*checks notes) ugh, Distortus Rex that looks like if a xenomorph from “Alien,” a rancor from “Star Wars” and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from “Ghostbusters” had a hydrocephalic love child. Or just stop making these movies until someone has a clear vision, original idea and a decent script.

I don’t want to be so hard on this, but “Rebirth” really defeated me. I was abnormally excited for this since I respect Gareth Edwards as a filmmaker and know he could do something original with this franchise. Instead, it smothered my inner 13-year-old in his sleep and then asked if I was having fun yet.

There can still be magic and wonder in this series because dinosaurs are awe-inspiring creatures that ignite the imaginations of kids and their parents alike. Maybe that inner 13-year-old doesn’t have to die and it just takes a strong vision of an inspired filmmaker to reignite that spark inside. We can do better than this and so can every person involved in this cynical and empty exercise in corporate synergy.

If enough of us don’t go see this movie (too late for me), maybe Hollywood will try and do better next time. Kidding, I’m not that naive. That level of optimism is the only real dinosaur I see.

Jurassic Park: Rebirth

Dir. Gareth Edwards

Grade: D

Now Playing at Regal Old Mill, Sisters Movie House, McMenamins Old St Francis, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5

The 36th Annual Ochoco Butterfly Count A day spent chasing butterflies in

By Damian Fagan

Sue Anderson, leader of the annual Ochoco Butterfly Count, gathers the participants into a pre-count circle and gives the ten of us volunteers, including Juba the dog (named after the Juba skipper), a morning pep talk prior to all of us heading out in the Ochoco National Forest where this count, sponsored by the Lane County Butterfly Club (a member chapter of the North American Butterfly Association), will happen.

“This is the 36th annual butterfly count and as citizen scientists we need this survey to help plan for what’s coming up,” says Anderson. We understand her message well considering the current dysfunctional status of the current administration, and that the future for butterflies is very murky. “We may now be the leaders.”

Anderson passes out copies of an article from the journal Science, which focused on a comprehensive assessment by numerous scientists highlighting the decline of butterfly populations in the United States. Even the charismatic monarch butterfly isn’t immune from impacts and was proposed for listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service last December under the Threatened and Endangered Species Act.

So, with a sense of urgency, the group splits up to cover more ground and our band heads towards Big Summit Prairie with numerous stops along the way.

Our first stop is in a small meadow near the old Civilian Conservation Corps Camp Mill Creek. The skies are overcast and the temperature is a bit below 60⁰ F, not exactly ideal butterflying weather. Close to this meadow, a group of boondockers watch this morning gaggle of teenagers and adults swishing nets through the tall grass

mountain meadows is a good day.

trying to stir up some butterfly action. We find just a few butterflies such as field crescents and Boisduval’s blue before we depart.

At our next few stops, the sun has melted away the clouds and the butterflies have become more active. It’s a good thing we’ve got several teens and young adults in the group, as the stops require some scrambling up steep banks or running after butterflies that Anderson points out. We add western sulphur, snowberry checkerspot, western tiger swallowtail, more field crescents, and others. Some are identified by sight, while others are netted then in the hand by Anderson and Amanda Egertson, the Deschutes Land Trust’s stewardship director, for identification.

At another stop by the Lookout Mountain trailhead, we searched a

nearby meadow that turns up purplish copper, greenish blue, spreadwing skipper, and others. It’s difficult to follow exactly which butterflies have been seen, but Anderson keeps track of the species and numbers while Egertson provides some identification tips on the harder-to-identify species. She points out the “liver-colored spots” on the underside wings of the Edith’s copper, a small butterfly that we find nectaring on the wildflower parsnipflower buckwheat.

Anderson adds a good mnemonic to help identify the satyr anglewing, a larger species of butterfly with a very ragged and uneven edge to the wings that gets netted at one stop. “The white mark on the underside of the satyr’s hind wing looks like a telephone, so remember the phrase, ‘What did he say to her’ as a way to help

"This is the 36th annual butterfly count and as citizen scientists we need this survey to help plan for what’s coming up."

— Sue Anderson

identify this species,’” said Anderson.

Butterflies are amazing creatures, having evolved over 100 million years ago. Though their flight and physical appearance makes them seem fragile, these are resilient creatures. They’ve survived the mass extinction of dinosaurs, but are now in decline mainly due to human impacts and alteration of habitats. The Science article rings as a warning bell. The time to conserve habitat and minimize pesticide use is still upon us, and the survival of species such as the monarch butterfly depends upon our call to action.

Eventually, we meet up with the other group at the Crooked River Bridge on the east end of Big Summit Prairie. Everyone is tired; it’s been a long day zig-zagging after butterflies in these mountain meadows. Though I don’t know what the totals are, I’m guessing that we observed over 35 species of butterflies on this 36th annual butterfly chase across the Ochocos. A good day was had by all.

Lane

County Butterfly Club Lanebutterflies.org

O OUTSIDE

New Downhill Mountain Bike Trails

Wanoga Downhill

is being created by some of the best in the sport

Work is underway for a new mountain biking playground. Wanoga Downhill trails are being crafted by the Central Oregon Trail Alliance with input from some elite athletes including Carson Storch, a world-class freeride and slopestyle mountain biker as well as Dusty Wygle, a high-flying freeride mountain biker known for daring tricks.

The trails are near the sledding hill at Wanoga Snow Play Area Sno-Park. “Nothing’s happening to the part of the butte where people sled. That will be untouched,” Emmy Andrews, executive director for COTA told the Source.

Five connecting bike trails are being created so riders can do a variety of loops for a series of downhill thrills. “You have all these different options of fun,” Andrews explains. “Little downhills going from sort of an intermediate to kind of heavy, advanced, almost expert riding.” It’ll be a sessionable experience, where riders can do laps, building up their skills.

The plan adds 5.3 miles of trail at Wanoga. Most of the trails will be intermediate or advanced with jumps, drops and bermed turns and an elevation gain of 350 to 400 feet. See above graphic for trail map.

The project broke ground in midJune. COTA hired Sensus R.A.D Trails as the contractor. That company is owned by Cam Zink, a freeride and slopestyle mountain bike legend who set a Guinness World Record in 2014 for landing a 100-foot 3-inch dirt-todirt backflip. With so many outstanding riders involved in the process, the new trails are sure to impress.

By Nic Moye

“You have all these different options of fun,” Andrews explains. “Little downhills going from sort of an intermediate to kind of heavy, advanced, almost expert riding.” —Emmy Andrews

“We’re talking to them about how we want something spicy,” Andrews says.

“We want something that is appropriate for more skilled riders who are just becoming a bigger and bigger slice of the riding population every day as kids who have grown up on bikes mountain biking have these really impressive skills. We’re

@cotamtb

really hoping that they (the designers) will bring a cool vision to it… We’re kind of giving them creative license.”

Andrews also notes a large team has been involved in the planning process including many volunteers. The project lead is Tom Lomas, the former operations director for Mt. Bachelor, whom Andrews describes as an “uber-volunteer” for COTA.

The project was inspired by feedback from the public. The downhill trails are expected to be ready by next spring, assuming work continues as scheduled.

“A lot of things can play into that… One thing is, when fire danger gets high, we can’t use motorized equipment anymore, so we have to hand build everything, which just slows things down. So we’re kind of working against the clock. And, of course, if it’s very smoky or if there’s a nearby fire, they use Wanoga for fire staging and other people are not allowed there, so we may have some weather and access issues slowing us down,” Andrews explains. “Hopefully it’ll be done before winter sets in.

Andrews says planning for the project began in the 1990s. It’s part of a larger plan called the West Bend Trails Project which had to be approved by the Deschutes National Forest. Seven new mountain bike trails are included in the plan including a Voodoo to Phil’s Trail connector; Phil’s to Shevlin connector; a .65 mile C.O.D. easy option; an Uphill Whoops trail which would turn the existing Whoops into a downhill only; a Ridge Loop connector in the Swampy area and a Swampy to Wanoga connector.

“COTA doesn’t just get to go out and build whatever trail they want,” Andrews says. “There’s a very long process with the land managers, especially the federal land managers, who have a very robust process that is prescribed by law to evaluate whether the project is a good fit for other things that are going on, like wildlife protection and to make

Wanoga Downhill

Pink: Access from parking lot

Green: Uphill

Orange: Intermediate downhill with bermed turns, jumps & drops

Purple: Intermediate downhill connecting with Tiddlywinks

Blue: Advanced downhill with jumps, drops, rolling grade changes, bermed turns

sure resources are balanced.”

Andrews says the work is being funded by a grant from the Bend Sustainability Fund. She says while the public is asking for more downhill trails, they may not realize how much maintenance is involved.

“Last year volunteers spent over 1,000 hours on Lower Whoops [and] over 1,000 hours on Tiddlywinks.” Andrews explains. She says the features that make trails unique need constant attention and repairs.

COTA is a nonprofit dedicated to developing, protecting and enhancing Central Oregon mountain bike trails. Funding is from grants, corporate sponsors, membership dues and private donors. Much of the work is done by volunteers.

“If you love it. If you’re riding it, give back. That is definitely a message that we try to send.”

By Nic Moye

Handmade Knife Show

Knives are among the oldest tools used by humans. They date back to the Stone Age, more than 2.5 million years ago, evolving along the way from stones to modern, sophisticated instruments. The DIYcave in Bend is hosting a Central Oregon Handmade Knife Show. It’ll feature expert custom knifemakers and live forging demonstrations. The variety of knives on display will include chef, utility, hunters, bowies, daggers, collectibles, art and EDCs (everyday carry knives). Experts will shape raw steel into one-of-a-kind blades and answer questions during the two-day event. It’s a chance to discover rare pieces and explore the craft behind custom knifemaking.

glass, metal cuff bracelets, wooden birdhouses, furniture or picture frames and sewing. In addition, there are introductory skill classes for the public to learn welding, blacksmithing, leather tooling, wood lathe turning, woodshop basics, metalsmithing, 3D printing and LEGO robotics. There are some kid classes as well. Prices will vary.

The knife show is free and open to the public. It’s happening the first weekend in July at the DIYcave on Armour Road in southeast Bend.

DIYcave offers knifemaking classes as well as other art classes such as stained

Handmade Knife Show Sat., July 5, 9am-5pm/Sun., July 6, 9am-3pm DIYcave 909 SE Armour Rd., Bend facebook.com/events/732514079122504/ 732717369102175/?active_tab=about&rdid=zsMs7Lb4AzRJit14 Free

Sip Wine for a Good Cause

What’s being billed as summer’s biggest wine tasting party in Central Oregon is happening July 18. Representatives from more than 20 wineries in the Willamette Valley and Columbia Gorge wine regions will gather on the athletic field of Central Oregon Communi ty College. Organizers rent the largest tent in the state which stretches nearly the entire length of the athletic field. It’s the 13th year for the event which raises money for a good cause. The KIDS Center’s board of directors and staff launched the event to help fund essential services for Central Oregon children and families impacted by abuse, Dawn Boone with the KIDS Center told the Source.

c

489 children. The nonprofit provides therapy and advocacy at no charge to children and families in a six-county region. The Sip event was voted “Central Oregon’s Best Fundraiser” in the 2022 Source “Best Of” issue.

It's part of a winemaker dinner series curated by Cork and Barrel that kicks off on July 17. Two multi-course dinners are scheduled for that date. One is at Jackalope Grill. That will feature wine from Sokol Blosser. The other dinner on July 17 will be held at Tetherow. It features Prince Hill Vineyards and Silver Oak. Tickets are $150. Each dinner features a specially crafted menu to specifically pair with the selected wine, to be experienced in an intimate venue.

In the past, the event highlighted wine from Napa Valley, Walla Walla and Southern Oregon. This year, it’s closer to home. Wineries this year include Alexana, Aniche, The Four Graces, Hawkins Cellars, L’Angolo Estate, McCollum Heritage 91, Penner-Ash, Prince Hill, Project M, Ruby, Solena Estate, The Pines 1852, Toil, Van Duzer and many more. In addition to wine, there will be three local breweries, two local cideries and two distilleries pouring tastes. Nine local eateries will also provide savory and sweet small bites. Games, raffles and an auction are also part of the evening. Tickets are $125. The Sip event raises about half a million dollars, which is roughly 20% of KIDS Center’s annual budget. Last year, KIDS Center served

On Nov. 1, a winemaker dinner will be held at Brasada Ranch. It will feature Domaine Serene Vineyards & Winery. A multi-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Karl Holl will be paired with the wine.

Winemaker Dinners

July 17 & Nov. 1, Fri., 6-9pm Jackalope Grill, Tetherow, Brasada Ranch

2600 NW College Way, Bend corkandbarrel.org/winemaker-dinners

$150

A Sip of Cork & Barrel Fri., July 18 4:30-7:30pm

COCC Athletic Field

2600 NW College Way, Bend corkandbarrel.org/ $125

Talking to Trees Learning a new language in ways of communication

By Kimberly Bowker

Camping in Central Oregon as a young being, I felt continually drawn to the trunks of Ponderosa

Pines that were close to the ground, like I was, and extended infinitely upward, like I did. My little paws touched the bark and I stood in wonder at how all these puzzle pieces around the tree could fit together.

I pried off a few pieces of bark, carried them back to camp, climbed up onto the picnic table bench, and attempted to reassemble the pieces on the flat surface. They never did fit seamlessly together again like the puzzles I knew.

Thirty years later, at the same campsite and what I remember to be the same tree, both of us larger now, I try once more. I walk to the picnic table and lay down the pieces. They still do not fit together. I feel a wave of guilt looking at the bark seemingly disconnected from its source and separate from each other on a piece of weathered grey wood.

This unexpected emotion stemmed from gathering rings in my own growth, connecting root systems into a collective consciousness and learning about science and ways of being in awareness and relation with all nature, as nature, and the astounding structures in the life force of trees.

Like last year at a writing workshop with author and botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer, hosted by the Deschutes County Library, where I wrote in my notes about “species loneliness.” In thinking of ourselves as human exceptionalism on top of a fictional pyramid of nature (it's actually a circle), we leave ourselves alienated and separate from the wisdom and perspective the natural world can give.

Robin Wall Kimmerer encouraged us to “invite other voices in.” I left feeling with the understanding that we are part of nature and not separate from, or controlling of, life.

In my 20s and 30s I began touching trees, saying good morning to them, and yes, hugging them. I wrapped my arms around a Redwood and looked into its overstory and imaged the perspective from the needles while feeling the smooth bark. I read on the interpretive signs that the Redwood tree roots are shallow (6-12 feet deep) but broad (60-100 feet out) and intertwined underground.

Scientific information shared in books and podcasts continue to reveal fascinating facts about trees, such as the mycorrhizal network that connects plants together

by Nic Moye

in communication and transference of nourishment. The ecosystems and species inform one another and seem to connect in mutual support and growth. Like humans can.

Soon enough, I started asking questions to treesspecifically to potential Christmas trees if they wanted to be a Christmas tree. To do this I cleared my mind of thought, looked at the tree, asked a question, and kept the space open until an answer dropped in without my thinking it.

Answers of all kinds materialized from the short and tall, thin and full trees held by snow. Some wanted to stay because of the surrounding trees, some couldn’t wait to be decorated in lights and ornaments, some said no thank you, and I heard one even say no, but yes, because I needed it.

While admittedly this piece feels a little risky for me to write (yup, that is probably going to be me talking to a tree at Shevlin Park), I do believe this map of connection is filtered through myself as a channel. Perhaps it is co-creating with the subconscious or meaning— making desires or personal understandings at this moment in time, yet there is also something else that is unexplainable in relationship with beings other than humans.

Thanks to a recent revitalization and expansion of the practice of forest bathing, first beginning in the 1980s in Japan, there are more ways to support such a

possible connection. Many events are offered locally in Central Oregon and invite a way for humans to reconnect with the local ecosystems.

Now, I usually ask before I touch a tree on walks or hikes. I remember that the origin of the word “consent” means “ together feel.” So we do. Palm to trunk, skin to bark, we feel together, in interbeing, in life.

How to Talk to Trees:

Move your attention to a tree. The being could be in close proximity - an arm’s reach away - or out the window. Clear your mind of thought. When a thought approaches, offer it space to continue its journey out of presence. Watch the leaves move, recognize the color of the bark, feel how the light touches the tree. Sense the energy of the tree or watch its rhythm. Be in your energy field and notice the tree’s energy field without judgement - about you or the tree or the weather or the squirrel clawing on the bark or the past or future or the shoulds of life. Breathe. Gently notice the space between. Once you are in presence with the tree, say good morning. Say thank you. Ask a question, in your mind or out loud. In that field of not creating thought, see what words or what movement of the tree may return. Ask permission - may I touch you? Ask if the tree needs anything. With your palm on the bark, feel the energy. Feel your energy. Feel how they connect and move one another. Listen. Does the tree have anything to tell you?

Further Reading about Trees:

• “Born of Fire and Rain: Journey into a Pacific Coastal Forest ” by M.L. Herring

• “The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from A Secret World ” by Peter Wohlleben

• “The Overstory ” by Richard Powers

• “Your Guide to Forest Bathing: Experience the Healing Power of Nature ” by M. Amos Clifford

O OUTSIDE

Bend Dirt Fest

Get dirty, Bend: New event combines competition, camaraderie and dusty trails

By Al Olson

Let’s talk dirty.

The inaugural Bend Dirt Fest, organized by longtime endurance event director Mike Ripley and his company, Mudslinger Events, rolls into town on Friday, July 12, offering a mix of trail running, gravel grinding, and mountain biking fun—with a distinct local vibe.

The Bend Dirt Fest is a spiritual successor to one of Ripley’s most beloved events: The Oregon 24, a 12- and 24-hour mountain bike relay that ran for 15 years and drew up to 500 participants. The event’s magic—riding under stars, shared camaraderie, and community energy—ended abruptly last year when the Forest Service reclaimed the land it was held on.

“It was like my soul got ripped out,” Ripley admits. “Not only was the Oregon 24 my second largest event of the year, but it was also such a phenomenal feeling. But my hope is that we can replicate that vibe and culture with the Bend Dirt Fest.”

That culture includes inclusivity, affordability, and local flavor. Ripley says the Dirt Fest was designed to be “consumable” for Central Oregon residents, who sometimes feel priced out of big summer events. To keep it grounded,

he’s offering things like a 1-to-1 volunteer-to-racer swap: “If one person volunteers, a buddy races for free.”

The event is small by design this first year—about 100 to 150 participants total, split between three disciplines: trail running, gravel cycling, and mountain biking. “We didn’t even launch until May,” Ripley says. “So, this is about planting a seed. We know it’ll grow.”

Three Ways to Get Dirty

The Bend Dirt Fest begins and ends at the Athletic Club of Bend, with parking available nearby at OSU Cascades. The event kicks off at 8 a.m., with participants taking on their choice of the following challenges:

• Trail Run (13.1 miles): The half-marathon route winds its way from the ACB onto Haul Road Trail and then through dusty singletrack before looping back to the finish line at the Club.

• Gravel Grinder (55 miles): A mixed-terrain adventure designed for intermediate to advanced riders. Most riders will complete the ride in 3-5 hours and will cruise back to the ACB for the post-ride celebration.

mudslingerevents.com

• Mountain Bike Course (36 miles): This one’s a team affair—you’ll need to register with one or two teammates. Riders start on pavement before hitting the westside singletrack. The bikers finish the course on the mountain before coasting home to the ACB for a cool beverage and some live music.

All three races include team categories, with prizes awarded by age group, gender, and team configuration. Creative team names are encouraged, whether you go funky or fierce. Age groups start as young as 10 for runners and 14 for bikers, with brackets extending to 70+.

While the competitive aspect is definitely there, Ripley emphasizes that it’s not just about racing. “There’s nothing like rolling out of bed in Bend and being able to hang out with your friends on the trail,” he says. “That’s basically the concept—even though we’ve got three events going at the same time.”

Ripley is no rookie when it comes to putting on races. Over the past 22 years, he’s grown Mudslinger Events from a grassroots effort into a full calendar of about 15 races a year, staffed by a tight crew of part-timers and supported by a

mudslingerevents.com

volunteer force of over 700. But for Ripley, who grew up riding bikes in Eugene in the 1970s and now lives in the Willamette Valley with his wife, Andi, it’s about more than a business to him.

“This is my passion,” Ripley says. “I love being on the trail—running, biking, hiking—and connecting people to each other and to the outdoors.”

Come for the Trails, Stay for the Tunes Spectators are encouraged to walk or bike to the Athletic Club of Bend, where the lower lot will be closed off at 8 a.m. to make space for the festival The trail run will finish live at the ACB, while gravel and mountain bikers will complete their timed segments out in the field, then ride back for a ceremonial finish and celebration with a DJ and a live band.

“This is really a concept event,” Ripley says. “It’s an idea that we hope will flourish. Bend is a great town with great trails and great people. All we’re trying to do is bring them together in a new way.”

Registration for the event closes July 9, and more information, including course maps, start times, and rules, can be found on the Mudslinger Events website. Bend Dirt Fest Fri., July 12 Race 8am/Festival 11am Athletic Club of Bend 61615 Athletic Club Dr. mudslingerevents.com/bend-dirt-fest-july12th--2025

By Nic Moye

First Bend Comedy Festival

National and local comedians will make you laugh

The inaugural Bend Comedy Festival is launching over Labor Day Weekend. More than 25 comedians from around the country will perform. Organizer Skylar King says it’ll be a mix of nationally touring headliners and local talent. The lineup includes Kate Berlant (Emmy-nominated comedian, writer, and actress), Susan Rice (“Don’t Tell Comedy”), Ehsan Ahmad (“Kill Tony”), Skyler Higley (“Conan,” “Comedy Central”), Peter Antoniou (“America’s Got Talent”) and more. Rice has been a professional comedian for 41 years, beginning in 1983. She’s appeared on Showtime, ABC and CBS. In 1998, she moved from Los Angeles to Portland. Now in her 70s, she continues making people laugh. Antoniou is a self-proclaimed mind reader. He’s traveled around the world combining British wit with an interactive performance where he reads the minds of audience members. Higley comes from the Chicago comedy scene, and was honored as a New Face at the Montreal Just for Laughs comedy festival and named one of New York Comedy Festival’s “Comics to Watch.” He currently writes for The Onion and has contributed to The New Yorker.

BCF will be held across multiple venues throughout Bend, including Midtown Ballroom, Volcanic Theatre Pub, Silver Moon Brewing, and The Capitol. In a news release, King says BCF is produced by a queer and women-led team and organized by the Bend Comedy and Arts Foundation, a nonprofit committed to building community and culture through comedy.

In addition to traditional showcases, festival events include a joke competition, a mind-reading magician,

“Bend’s creative energy is so unique and we’re excited to showcase that while bringing in some of the best comedic voices from around the country.”

—Skylar King

comedic jazzercise, musical comedy, a UCB sketch show, a screening of original digital shorts and a queer comic showcase, which the Source wrote about for the Pride issue on May 29.

Festival passes include access to all events, discounts and freebies from local businesses and an invite to a private afterparty. Individual event tickets are also available. All festival events will be for ages 21+ with the exception of the Sunday evening Comedy/MagicShow with Peter Antoniou which will be for ages 13+.

“We’ve been blown away by the enthusiasm from the community,” King says. “Bend’s creative energy is so unique and we’re excited to showcase that while bringing in some of the best comedic voices from around the country.”

By Nic Moye

It Started with a Stitch

The

Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show celebrates half a century

The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show is celebrating its 50th year. The annual event, held the second Saturday in July, draws more than 10,000 visitors from around the world. It began in 1975 when the founder of The Stitchin’ Post quilt shop, Jean Wells, hung about a dozen family quilts outside her shop. A tradition was born. Today more than 1,100 quilts are hung throughout Sisters. Organizers say the event has evolved into a living, breathing celebration of creativity, community and tradition.

As part of the 50th anniversary, original quilts from that first day will be on display. There will be several special exhibits this year. Wells will be on hand at her display: “Jean Wells” 50 Years of Quilting,” a retrospective collection. She has written more than 28 books about quilting.

There will also be iconic quilts from past anniversary milestones and t-shirts from past years on display, Dawn Boyd, executive director of SOQS, told the Source. Boyd says invitations went out to Central Oregon Quilt Guilds to make quilts based on one of three themes: golden memories, log cabin, or Sisters. Mt. Bachelor Guild participants created postcard snapshots of Sisters with their quilts, which will be hung outside The Gallery restaurant. East of the Cascades Guild selected the log cabin pattern using the color gold.

The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show is internationally recognized as the world’s largest outdoor quilt show. Participants range in age from 10 to 92 years old. “The quilt show is unique,” Boyd says. “It’s free to the public, always has been, always will be. It’s non-juried, welcoming quilters of every level. The placement of the quilts is specifically designed to be pleasing to the eye, selecting colors and designs, no matter the level of the quilter. We are also driven by 400+ volunteers, and it’s a connection of businesses, community and those who love being part of something bigger than themselves.” Some quilts on display come from other countries.

While the outdoor display is a single day on July 12, several events are held leading up to it. The Quilter’s Affair is five days of classes and workshops taught by master quilt makers.

nings.” That will focus on stories about the Stitchin’ Post. The next night, July 11, Wells and her daughter, Valori, will share the history of the quilt show’s 50-year journey, which is woven from the dreams of quilters, the hands of volunteers and the hearts of visitors from all over the world and grown into a legendary status. The event will include a Q&A, videos and a silent auction of quilts made by many of the teachers from the Quilter’s Affair. Money raised goes to support SOQS. Raffle tickets are also being sold for a special quilt celebrating the 50th anniversary. Titled “Sisters Scape Reimagined,” the original design was made by Valori Wells. It's been recreated by her mother, Jean, and longtime quilter, Donna Rice, incorporating elements of the Three Sisters mountains, a field of wildflowers, Ponderosa Pine trees and Whychus Creek full of fish. A team of quilters helped assemble it. Raffle tickets are $5 and sold at participating businesses in Sisters. The winning ticket will be drawn on July 12 at 4pm.

During the outdoor show, Hood Avenue will be closed from Larch Street to Pine Street. Quilts will be hung on Main Avenue, Cascade Avenue, Hood Avenue and all cross streets from Oak Street through Larch Street

Boyd says if someone can’t make the show, the Quilt Walk will continue throughout the month of July with quilts on display inside sponsoring businesses. Boyd says, “Not only are we excited for our iconic 50th Anniversary year, we are already looking ahead to what the next 50 years might bring.”

Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show Sat., July 12, 9am-4pm Main, Cascade, Hood Avenues Oak to Larch Streets soqs.org/ Free

Quilter’s Affair Classes Mon.-Fri., July 7-11, 7:30am-3:30pm

Sisters High School

1700 W McKinney Butte Rd., Sisters stitchinpost.com/pages/qa-home?srsltid=AfmBOorsh5HSHPvnXJvAuv12yvZHPhKRYIyk6ytALvKKpS3KNSaRECWf $130

By Josh Jardine

I Want My Cannabis Social Lounge!

Tokers wish to be treated on par with users of alcohol

As Oregon hits the 10-year mark this month for its Adult Use cannabis program, the most frustrating aspect is where within Pacific Wonderland one may legally consume cannabis.

The short answer is within your home, or front/back yard, provided you have a fence or other view blocking structures. This is to prevent those under the age of 21 from seeing you do pot weed, which could result in…something, probably dire. #wontsomeonePLEASEthinkofthechidren.

If you choose to leave your home, your options are limited. You may not consume on sidewalks, in alleys, doorways, cars, parks, benches, beaches, rivers, bridges, fields, or anywhere indoors. You may consume in an outdoor space, with the aforementioned view blocking barriers in place, so long as the space is not near a school, daycare, etc.

Mind you, as anyone with a functioning nose can attest, those laws are roundly ignored, with joints, blunts and bongs being lit up by scofflaws often.

The enforcement against public cannabis consumption isn’t a top shelf priority for police in most places, so those who choose to partake publicly aren’t fearful of imprisonment or hefty fines.

It’s the height of hypocrisy to charge a 20% tax on products which you then forbid people to use publicly. Tokers simply wish to be treated on par with users of another intoxicating adult product – alcohol. To keep people from drinking in public, Oregon regulates and enforces alcohol consumption spaces such as bars, cafes, restaurants, festivals, grocery stores, beer stores, concerts, street fairs, and many, many more.

Legal indoor spaces for those 21 and over to use cannabis have existed both here and abroad, and at present 12 states allow licensed spaces for indoor consumption, all of which prohibit alcohol sales. I’ve had the opportunity to visit cannabis cafes in Canada, San Francisco, and was a regular patron at the late, great Portland-based, membership-based Northwest Cannabis Club (NWCC), which I reviewed way back in 2017.

None were located in a dispensary, you couldn’t purchase cannabis, an entry fee of $5-$10 was charged, and a variety of smoking and vaping implements were available for use at n/c, along with non-infused food and drinks for purchase. Despite fears of regulators, the most disruptive activity during my visits to all these spaces was hearing patrons coughing after a sizable hit. No one passed out, started a fight, did lines off the table, etc.

At NWCC, I spoke with other members who shared that the club allowed them their only legal indoor consumption option, as they lived in federal housing where cannabis use could result in eviction. It also gave them a much needed space to socialize with others, a critical benefit for those whose health, age and mobility had limited their options.

But after a decade of legalization, it begs the question: what’s the problem with cannabis consumption spaces, and will Oregon ever get any again? A new ballot initiative effort by the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition to allow licensed cannabis consumption cafes and lounges has passed the first hurdle for appearing on the November 2026 Oregon ballot. Once the first round of recently submitted signatures are certified, OCCC will need to collect another 120,000+ signatures to get onto the ballot. If passed, it would go into effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Proving once again that if you want things done, get a woman on it, OCCC’s founder Justyce Seith has been taking on this Herculean task solo, and needs the support of Oregon’s cannabis consumers to make this happen.

As she shared with Marijuana Moment, the cannabis social lounges would prohibit alcohol and cannabis sales, close by 2 a.m., and the licenses to operate one “...would be available only to small cannabis business licensees, known in the state as microbusinesses.”

As indoor smoking or vaping, other than a private residence, violates Oregon’s Clean Indoor Act, the initiative would exempt the lounges through a range of air cleaning and monitoring actions.

Seith told Marijuana Moment that her most pressing need is to raise money “...for professional petitioners, billboard advertisements, web design and community events,” as well as gathering those 120,000 signatures.

—Get details at their website or IG account @orcannacafec.

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Welcome to a special edition of “What's My Strongest Yearning?” I'm your host, Rob Brezsny, and I'm delighted you have decided to identify the single desire that motivates you more than any other. Yes, you have many wishes and hopes and dreams, but one is more crucial than all the rest! Right? To begin the exercise, take three deep breaths and allow every knot of tension to dissolve and exit your beautiful body. Then drop down into the primal depths of your miraculous soul and wander around until you detect the shimmering presence of the beloved reason you came here to this planet. Immerse yourself in this glory for as long as you need to. Exult in its mysterious power to give meaning to everything you do. Ask it to nurture you, console you, and inspire you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In certain medieval maps, unexplored territories were marked with the Latin phrase hic sunt dracones—“here be dragons.” It was a warning and a dare, a declaration that no one knew what lay beyond. In the coming weeks, Leo, you may find yourself traveling into one of those unlabeled regions. Rather than flinching or dodging, I invite you to press forward with respectful curiosity. Some of the so-called dragons will be figments. Others are protectors of treasure and might be receptive to sharing with a bright light like you. Either way, productive adventures are awaiting you in that unmapped territory. Go carefully—but go.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In traditional Japanese carpentry, joints are made so skillfully that they need no nails, screws, or adhesives. Carpenters use intricate joinery techniques to connect pieces of wood so tightly that the structures are strong and durable. They often require a mallet for assembly and disassembly. In metaphorical terms, you are capable of that kind of craftsmanship these days, Virgo. I hope you will take advantage of this by building lasting beauty and truth that will serve you well into the future. Don’t rush the joinery. If it’s not working, don’t force it. Re-cut, re-measure, breathe deeply, and try again.

to turn right-side-up things. Relish and learn from the tilt.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’m sure you enjoy gazing into some mirrors more than others. It’s amazing how different you might look in your bathroom mirror and the mirror in the restroom at work. Some store windows may reflect an elegant, attractive version of you, while others distort your image. A similar principle is at work in the people with whom you associate. Some seem to accentuate your finest attributes, while others bring out less flattering aspects. I bring this to your attention, dear Capricorn, because I believe it will be extra important in the coming weeks for you to surround yourself with your favorite mirrors.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Leonardo da Vinci filled thousands of pages with sketches, notes, and experiments. He never finished many of them. He called this compilation his “codex of wonder.” It wasn’t a record of failures. It was an appreciation of his complex process and a way to honor his creative wellspring. Taking a cue from da Vinci’s love of marvelous enigmas, I invite you to be in love with the unfinished in the coming weeks. Make inquisitiveness your default position. Reconsider abandoned ideas. Be a steward of fertile fragments. Some of your best work may arise from revisiting composted dreams or incomplete sketches. Here’s your motto: Magic brews in the margins.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In the remote Atacama Desert of Chile, certain flowers lie dormant for years, awaiting just the right conditions to burst into blossom in a sudden, riotous explosion of color and vitality. Scientists call it a superbloom. Metaphorically speaking, Pisces, you are on the verge of such a threshold. I’m sure you can already feel the inner ripening as it gathers momentum. Any day now, your full flowering will erupt—softly but dramatically. You won’t need to push. You will simply open. To prepare yourself emotionally, start rehearsing lively shouts of “HALLELUJAH! HOORAY! WHOOPEE!”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Here's one of my unruly rules about human competence: In every professional field, from physicians to lawyers to psychics to teachers, about 15 percent of all the practitioners are downright mediocre, even deficient. Seventy-five percent are at least satisfactory and sometimes good. And 10 percent of the total are surpassingly excellent, providing an extraordinary service. With this in mind, I’m happy to say that you now have a knack for gravitating toward that exceptional 10 percent in every domain you are drawn to. I predict that your intuition will consistently guide you toward premium sources.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The Japanese concept of shinrin-yoku means “forest bathing.” It invites people to immerse themselves in the natural world, drawing on its restorative power. In accordance with astrological portents, I urge you Scorpios to maximize your forest bathing. To amplify the enrichment further, gravitate toward other environments that nourish your soul’s need for solace and uplift. The naked fact is that you need places and influences that offer you comfort, safety, and tender inspiration. Don’t apologize for making your life a bit less heroic as you tend to your inner world with gentle reverence.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The camera obscura was a precursor to modern cameras. It projected the outside world upside down onto interior walls. Artists loved it because it helped them see reality from new angles. I hereby proclaim that you, Sagittarius, will be like both the artist and the camera obscura lens in the coming weeks. Your perceptions may feel inverted, strange, even disorienting, but that’s a gift! So let unfamiliarity be your muse. Flip your assumptions. Sketch from shadow instead of light. Have faith that the truth isn’t vanishing or hiding; it’s simply appearing in unfamiliar guises. Don’t rush

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The Hawaiian word pō refers to a primal darkness from which all life flows. It's not a fearsome void, but a fertile mystery, rich with future possibilities and the ancestors’ hopes. In the coming weeks, I invite you to treat your inner life as pō. Be as calm and patient and watchful as an Aries can be as you monitor the inklings that rise up out of the deep shadows. Have faith that the cloudy uncertainty will ultimately evolve into clarity, revealing the precise directions you need.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the 17th century, the Taurus polymath Athanasius Kircher constructed a fantastical machine called the Aeolian harp. It wasn’t designed to be played by human fingers, but by the wind. It conjured music with currents invisible to the eye. I nominate this sublime contraption as your power object for the coming weeks, Taurus. The most beautiful and healing melodies may come from positioning yourself so that inspiration can blow through. How might you attune yourself to the arrival of unexpected help and gifts? Set aside any tendency you might have to try too hard. Instead, allow life to sing through you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The painter Vincent van Gogh wrote, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” That’s good advice for you right now. Your ambitions may feel daunting if you imagine them as monumental and monolithic. But if you simply focus on what needs to be done next—the daily efforts, the incremental improvements—you will be as relaxed as you need to be to accomplish wonders. Remember that masterpieces are rarely completed in a jiffy. The cumulative power of steady work is potentially your superpower. Here’s another crucial tip: Use your imagination to have fun as you attend to the details.

Crossword “Cleaning Ones Plate”

Soaked to the bone

26.  Decide

28.  Cancer chart?

30.  Vicious punk rocker 31.  Hoof sound

32.  Line things up

Paint applications

35.  Do something perfectly, or what you might do if you went 20-Across, or had the 50-Across

38.  Photographer Arbus

39.  "You're drunk!"

40.  Gumbo vegetable

41.  Appetizer bowlful

42.  Swiss National Museum city

46.  Figure things out

47.  Bread for the barbecue

48.  Knee part that gets torn, for short

49.  Chinese principle

50.  Everything, at the taqueria

54.  Country whose flag has a red, yellow and green bars with a black star

55.  Director Nair

56.  Stand up comic Edelman

57.  Welcome mat spot

58.  Squeaks (out)

59.  Little bugger?

60.  Satisfies fully

61.  Hatchling's home

62.  Charles Mingus's instrument

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of June 30, 2025

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters W H A T M I L E S exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Let’s not forget why we celebrate 4th of July. It is the day saved us from ns.”

author unknown

Answer for the week of June 23, 2025

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

DOWN

1.  Embarrassing mistakes

2.  Hooded jacket

3.  Like an elititst

4.  Hide, as during close-up magic

5.  Citrusy desert with a crust

6.  Surrounding

7.  Be a kvetch

8.  Facial tic

9.  Virtuous person

10.  Almond-colored

11.  Stage of development?

12.  Sawbucks

13.  Some have famous product lines

21.  Go hungry

22.  Ref. that added "birria" and "barbacoa" in 2025

27.  Covers with Cottanelle

29.  Disney movie with some songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda

30.  Prying figure

31.  "28 Years Later" star Jodie

33.  Guys driving the train

34.  Some clouds

35.  [Mind blown!]

36.  Installation pieces that use the natural environment

37.  New Yorker cartoonist with the memoir "Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?"

38.  Follow closely

41.  Expected

43.  Paesano's land

44.  Officers-to-be

45.  Fake news sources

47.  Ennui, with "the"

48.  Lots of lots

51.  A single time

52.  Saucony rival

53.  Souvlaki meat

54.  App for a traveler

V E N T R A I Y C

Answer for the week of June 23, 2025

I C T E Y N A V R R Y A V I C T N E

Y R V N A I E C T

A N E C T Y R I V

T I C R E V N A Y

“Trump’s parade was boring. It was basically a $50 million version of when a 5-year-old shows you every car in his Hot Wheels collection.” —Jimmy Kimmel

“Trump’s parade was boring. It was basically a $50 million version of when a 5-year-old shows you every car in his Hot Wheels collection.” - Jimmy Kimmel

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only on doordash AND UBER EATS

FRIDAY, JULY 18 UNDER

By Fat Tony’s Chef Roberto Cardenas

SUMMER 2025

Central Oregon Neighborhoods

SUMMER’S BIGGEST WINE TASTING PARTY

The Neighborhoods issue will showcase our unique Central Oregon community and features the distinctive qualities, resources, maps, schools, parks and more of each neighborhood. Ready to connect with serious Central Oregon homebuyers? Don't miss out on the region's most trusted source for local news and property listings. Advertise your real estate in our Neighborhoods Issue and watch your listings get seen!

Contact your sales rep and reserve your space today!

AD Deadline: July 11 On Stands: July 17

AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO

By Burt Gershater

Your Dragons: How to Have a Positive Outlook

We have been training our brains from the day we arrived, both for better and for worse, consciously and subconsciously. Our brain, inarguably the most important part of us, is a miraculous gift. The older we get we can realize its endless value and our responsibility to care for it.

Our brains run the show, from learning of every kind, to our breathing, vision, balance, digestion, all the way to our most critical life decisions, and so much more. We are focusing today on our ever-bothersome negative thoughts, that I am calling “dragons.”

Researchers tell us that 75 to 95 percent of our thoughts are negative! These dragons are generally liars and they bring us down when we listen to them. Every one of us has them. This doesn’t make us crazy, we’re human! Dragons come along with all the other gifts we’ve been given. And possibly, some of us are just a little bit crazy. I am.

You know some of these critters that never seem to rest. "I'm not good enough." "She doesn’t like me." “This _ (fill in the blank) is going to last forever.” Dragons show up in a variety of clever ways and too often, we provide them a home. We forget our brain is our home, not theirs. Some of their more common categories are: catastrophizing, overgeneralizing, blaming, fear of the future, negatively comparing ourselves, holding on to the past, and our seemingly endless judging ourself and others.

In order to dampen their toxic impact on us, I have a helpful list of practices to add to your busy agenda:

1. Begin with a proclamation that goes something like this:

I will to do whatever I have to do to minimize the negative impact of dragons.

2. When you notice a dragon enter your mind, smile and say, “Hi, I see you. You didn’t sneak by this time.” This is our conscious awareness of the intruder.

3. Now, pause and take a gentle breath through your nostrils and into your belly. Not your chest and not your shoulders. This helps slow things down. Take a few more. This activates the higher brain and moves away from our reactionary flight, fight or freeze, lower brain. Practice this breath pattern all

day long. No one ever can, but we can aim in that direction. The benefits are beyond imaginable.

4. You are now in a more mindful state of consciousness and ready for this healing life-dance.

5. Now, joyfully go to a positive place in your mind. Gratitude is a good one and there are many others. Be repetitive, just like your dragons are. Thank you, Mom, Dad, my dear wife, husband, my partner, coach, teacher, friend, my feet, our air, water, food, the stars, love…whatever or whomever you’re grateful for, repeat it to yourself. Flood your being with passionate gratitude or deep prayer. This is a practice and you may be a beginner today. But you are now speaking truth rather than listening to toxic lies, and you will get better at it. Life improvement takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent.

If you want to have a healthy mind, you must feed your mind with truth.”

—Rick Warren, pastor

6. Do this practice every day for the rest of your life.

You deserve it and it is well worth your effort.

Our dragons never quit, we simply become better able to speak the truth that we feel deeply in our hearts and souls.

And these dragons eventually become our friends?!

Yes! Like bumps on the edge of a highway. They remind us to get back to center-- the truth. They become our helpers.

The result: There will be less negativity in your world. Trust me. I’ve been learning and doing versions of this practice for well over 30 years.

Also remember, we are not always able to do this life-changing life-dance by ourselves. Courageously reach out to a trusted friend, minister, rabbi, doctor, mental health practitioner. All of us need help in this lifetime. And blessedly, we are not alone! Breath. Gratitude. Joy. Discipline. Patience.

Safe travels.

—Burt Gershater is a local counselor, leadership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at info@burtgershater.com

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UNDERSTANDING INTIMACY

A COLUMN THAT FOSTERS DEEPER LOVE BETWEEN COUPLES

By Dr. Jane Guyn

Sexual Frequency

My husband is always on me to have more sex. We’re in our 40’s and have two kids in elementary school. Right now, we do it 4 or 5 times a monthsometimes more. Is that OK?

—Is That Enough?

Dear Is That Enough,

The question of sexual frequency is one that comes up all the time. It’s an important question because sexual satisfaction is often related to sexual frequency. Of course, the quality of the experiences you’re having together is also important, but how often you do “it” is one of the things people complain (or brag) about.

Some experts say that couples get the full benefit of sexual connection when they have sex on a weekly basisand that having sex more often doesn’t provide any advantage.

A recent article suggested that couples are getting way too stressed out about having sex even once a week. They said that sex even once a month gives couples the full benefit. Other religious traditions suggest that couples should have sex at least every four days to maintain connection and prevent a “wandering eye” in one or both partners. With so much conflicting information out there in the world, it makes perfect sense that you’re confused about how often you should make love.

Before we dive into frequency, let’s ask a more basic question. That is, why do it at all? What are the benefits of having sex?

Let’s face it. You’re busy. You’re trying to get the bills paid and the kids fed. You’d like to throw in a load, dry it and put it away without losing another sock. For lots of people, adding something vulnerable (and naked) into the mix can seem impossible.

After the kids are grown there are plenty of additional reasons that it’s tough to get busy. You’re tired. You’re cooling off after a vigorous game of pickle ball or a hike up Pilot Butte. You’re dealing with whatever HOA issue just came up or you’re trying to settle your nerves after reading the latest news blast. What’s in it for you to get undressed (emotionally and physically) so that you can do the deed?

Here are the three reasons sex experts like me think getting it on is worth the time, energy and emotional vulnerability that are involved:

• Emotional Connection: Sex fosters emotional intimacy and strengthens

bonds between partners.

• Relationship Satisfaction: Regular sexual activity is often linked to higher levels of relationship satisfaction and overall happiness.

• Intimacy and Bonding: Sex allows couples to explore desires, share fantasies, and connect on a deeper level, fostering intimacy.

Let’s assume for a moment that the experts are completely right in this case. When you get undressed and make time to be present with your partner, you feel more emotionally connected, you have more relationship satisfaction and you experience more intimacy and bonding. How wonderful! Even if the hamper’s still loaded with dirty clothes, it’s a good trade-off — even a great one.

Back to your initial question: how often is often enough? Well, if you really believed that you would definitely get the benefits I listed above, I bet you’d be thrilled to get regular intimacy onto your Google Calendar every week or even every day. You might even look forward to it, and think about ways to make it better.

The unfortunate thing is that, sometimes when you have sex, you end up feeling the exact opposite way to the three wonderful things I listed above. You feel lonely, disconnected, dissatisfied and isolated - even incredibly hurt or humiliated.

This is the real problem about frequency - and it holds the answer. It’s physically and emotionally impossible to desire something that isn’t pleasurable. Whether you have sex every night or every quarter isn’t the problem. The problem is whether (or not) you really enjoy it. Of course, you should discuss sexual frequency with your spouse in a kind and measured way. Make a plan and stick to it as much as possible.

But, in truth, when you focus more fully on real pleasure, the question of “how often is often enough” will gradually take care of itself.

You got this.

Xoxo

—Dr. Jane Guyn (she/her) is a wellknown relationship coach who received her Ph.D. in Human Sexuality and is trained as a Professional Sex Coach and Core Energy Coach. Send her your questions at thesource@drjaneguyn.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 25 - SUNDAY, JULY 27

FRIDAY, JULY 25

Hixon Mor tgage a Celebration at COCC Kids Rock the R aces Balloon Blast presented by COPA

SATURDAY, JULY 26

SUNDAY, JULY 27 PRESENTED BY

TAKE ME HOME

By Karen Malanga, Kristin Marshall and Jonny Malanga, Brokers, NestBend & REMAX Key Properties

Can You Time the Real Estate Market? (Spoiler alert:

It’s not a simple yes or no answer)

If we were to tell you the #1 mostasked question we get from clients (and family, and friends, and standing in line to get coffee), it would be, “Is now a good time to buy/sell?”

We really wish it was an easy answer of “buy now!” or “wait until next year.” But unfortunately, it’s not that simple. The idea that there is a perfect time to buy low and sell high, while it sounds simple, is quite difficult or a myth all together.

What you can do is time your home purchase or sale in a way that is most beneficial for you and your goals, while leveraging the current market variables in a way that sets you up for long-term success.

So, what are the current market variables you should be looking at?

Inventory levels - Low inventory means sellers have the advantage and can command higher prices. High inventory gives buyers more negotiating power and options. It's classic supply and demand.

Days on market - Homes sitting for months may offer negotiating opportunities, while properties selling in days mean you'll need competitive offers. These patterns vary dramatically by location and price point.

Interest rates - Beyond your personal budget, rates can act as a market thermometer. Higher rates may cool buyer competition, while lower rates tend to trigger bidding wars. A smart

HOME PRICE ROUNDUP

lender can find creative solutions even when rates seem challenging.

Local economic factors - As new businesses plant roots and existing companies expand in Central Oregon, we're seeing diversification across industries. This isn't just good news for job seekers. It's building a foundation that supports long-term property values and community growth

Seasonal factors - Spring and fall typically see more activity, while summer moves often coordinate with school schedules. Even our beautiful weather plays a role. Sunshine makes properties irresistible, while gray winter days can slow buyer decisions.

Your own personal goals and life factors - Market data matters, but your personal situation should drive timing. Starting a family? Job relocation? Downsizing? Your life stage is more important than trying to perfectly time the market. Sometimes the "right" market conditions don't align with your life needs.

The key is to focus on your strategy, not a crystal ball. You need a reputable lender, a real estate agent who understands your local market, a solid sense of your budget, and a long-term plan that won’t be swayed by shifting economic headlines.

Thinking about buying or selling, but wondering when you should make the move? Let’s talk about your needs and goals.

As a true local who was born in Sisters & grew up in Bend, I started this company with just one property and a mission to do things differently. Since 2007, A Superior Property Management Co. has grown into the most trusted name in town — not because we’re perfect but because we care so much!

My incredible team has been with me for years — no turnover, just a tight-knit group of professionals who love their jobs & treat your property like it’s our own. We help tenants find their dream homes and work hard every day to protect owners' investments.

love your vote again

- Andee Jessee, Owner Licensed Property Manager in the State of Oregon

and time and attention one requires, you need