the Source July 2, 2026

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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

Clayton Franke–clayton@layitoutfoundation.org

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EDITOR’S NOTE:

Data centers are no longer in vogue, becoming a hot button issue nationwide. They’ve been in Prineville for many years and the provided tax breaks will soon expire, setting the city and schools up for an influx of cash. But finding folks willing to talk about data centers proved challenging. Reporter Clayton Franke went to Prineville and found Meta employees eating lunch at a restaurant, but they said they had non-disclosure agreements and weren’t allowed to do interviews.

This week’s issue also features an array of interesting people from an Arctic explorer to Gambler 500 drivers, to a new small-batch sourdough baker, to a divorce doula, to the head of the High Desert Museum.

And hip, hip hooray, it’s ballot day! It’s time to give a shout-out to your favorite local businesses and professionals by nominating them in a “Best Of” category. The Source Ballot is 100% public driven. We list more than 200 categories but make no suggestions on who should rise to the top. That’s all on you. So, fill out those ballots and urge your friends and family to do so by July 12! Results will be announced in our Aug. 13 issue.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

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As Costs Climb, City Leaders Made the Right Choice to Back Off Transportation Fee

Take a look at what you were paying for electricity, water or other bills just a handful of years ago and you’re sure to get a shock. Costs for all of these services have skyrocketed since the pandemic years, and for low- and middle-income people, that’s meant making choices between everyday indulgences and paying the bills; between buying new things or making do. For others, the results have been even more dire, with housing insecurity still rampant in our community.

The rising costs have affected individuals, but they’ve also impacted local governments that are working to provide the services we continue to rely on. Inflation affects all sectors of the economy, and for the City of Bend and its leaders, that’s meant making tough choices to raise some fees, such as the transportation fee added to residents’ water and sewer bills.

But this month, City leaders did something that many people say they don’t often see: They listened and responded. Instead of raising fees on City utility bills for the third time, as was part of a plan to pay for street maintenance, the Bend City Council opted to pause that fee increase, citing the rising costs for businesses and residents. While the money is still needed, City leaders say they recognized that there’s a limit. That decision seems to be in line with a report from Gov. Tina Kotek’s office that came out last week, which asserted that lowering fees on businesses was one way to re-ignite the state’s economic prospects.

People often complain that the City of Bend doesn’t listen. We read about it often on forums like NextDoor and

Reddit. This, then, is a time when the City actually is listening, and responding. The decision won’t delay the fee increases forever, but for now it’s a welcome reprieve. No one likes potholes, and we’ll have to pay for their repair somehow. It’s notable that one of the reasons cited for the fee increases was a decline in gas tax revenue from the state. In 2016, voters in Bend rejected an effort to increase local gas taxes, an initiative that City leaders at the time said would mean the tourists who use our roads would also pay their share. We’ve always supported the notion of getting tourists to contribute more, since we live in a community with no sales tax. We were disappointed to see that effort fail, and to now see those costs borne primarily by locals. During the discussion about pausing the next phase of the transportation fee, City officials brought up the notion of a gas tax again. Our voter base has changed since 2016, and we’d wager the idea would have more support than it did back then. We live in a growing city that needs both new infrastructure and maintenance of what already exists. We believe the City Council did what it thought was right when it initiated the transportation fee, however, we also feel the cumulative effects of that controversial decision, made without the direct buyin of voters. Meantime, the City Council has passed a lot of other ambitious measures, like the natural gas fee and a tree code. These have raised the temperature of the electorate. Perhaps a looming City Council election is a cause for the fee pause, but in any case, it is good right now, for businesses and individuals, to see some financial relief.

O Letters

A MOVIE FOR THE TIMES

A few nights ago, I went to see the movie, “Pressure.” I like history. I have always found it interesting to compare and contrast the past with the present. I believe there is much to learn there. I have read about the landing of Normandy many times and have seen various movies relating to the subject.

I found “Pressure” to be a timely lesson and reminder of an exhibition of courage and moral fortitude in the face of great odds and evil. I looked at what they were all fighting for and against in that battle. They were fighting fascism, autocracy, oligarchy and totalitarianism. They were fighting for democracy.

All involved sacrificed their lives, their loved one’s lives, their fortunes their safety for what Eisenhower called “The Great Crusade.” I admit, I cried. I could see how young so many were; how so many put their private lives on hold to fight the evil that would obliterate democracy from the world if given the chance.

I can hardly believe the bravery, and courage required to fight for democracy. I am sure many of us lost relatives in this Crusade. People sacrificing all for democracy. So here we are. I believe we are living in a time in our country where the threat to democracy is now an internal threat. A time when we have leaders who de-value democracy and follow money and power.

I ask of our citizens today, “How are you opposing this march toward democratic destruction? And if you are not, I say, “How Dare You!”

If you are not following these examples of bravery, you may as well be spitting on the graves of all the service members who lost their lives in “ The Great Crusade.”

I will stand with democracy. Where will you stand?

—Vikki Hickmann

FIX OUR FOREST ACT IS FATALLY FLAWED

We, the public, and our elected representatives are stewards of the land, its forests, and the critters that inhabit those precious places. I am writing in opposition to a bill with a very misleading title, the Fix Our Forest Act (H.R.471 /S.1462). FOFA has no limits on the types of trees logged (e.g., old growth, tree diameters). It would also allow logging projects up to 15 square miles in size. This extreme “thinning” practice will resemble clearcutting. Further, the bill proposes to reduce public input and oversight in the management direction for public lands (it also minimizes scientific input). Our Oregon Senators

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!

Wyden and Merkley have expressed significant concerns with FOFA and should be thanked for their anticipated “NAY” votes. If the bill passes the Senate, it will go back to the House, and we must convince Rep. Janelle Bynum (CD5) and other Oregon congresspersons to vote “NAY.”

The Senate version is fatally flawed on oversight and legal recourse grounds as it severely restricts the ability of environmental groups, citizens, and other stakeholders from holding public lands management agencies accountable in court if they violate the Endangered Species Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, or other safeguard measures. The bill will also severely limit judicial review and the ability of the public, organizations, and other stakeholders to file suits.

Egregiously, other plans are afoot to sell public lands. Fortunately, Senators Wyden and Merkley have introduced legislation, The Public Lands Integrity Act (S.4455), to prohibit the sale of these lands. Rep. Bynum and other Oregon congressmembers should be encouraged to submit a companion bill in the House. Rep. Cliff Bentz (CD2) has introduced legislation (H.R.7603, O&C Renewal Act of 2026) that will return clearcutting to public lands in western Oregon. The Administration is also repealing the Roadless Rule via H.R.7695 that will open millions of acres of Oregon roadless forests to the timber industry. The resulting increased access into wild places will promote human-ignited wildfires. Consequently, we ask our legislators to oppose HR.7603 and H.R.7695 and support the Roadless Rule Conservation Act (H.R.3930), a bill that will enshrine the Roadless Rule into law.

The media is distracted by Donald Trump’s insane plans to name buildings and currency after himself, paint the national reflecting pool, construct a victory-style arch on the mall, add a giant ballroom to the White House, promote MMA fights on the White House grounds, and threaten to take over Greenland. These are diversions created by this administration’s political architects to “flood the zone” causing us to lose focus on their plans to deconstruct institutions, disrupt the international system, arrest and deport our neighbors, deny science, and degrade the environment. We must not be fooled, and neither should our representatives. We must maintain our vigilance, engage with our legislators, and be stewards of our valuable institutions and our precious public lands.

—Roger Sabbadini, Ph.D.

REPEALING THE ROADLESS RULE WON’T PROTECT US FROM FIRES

The Roadless Rule protects 45 million acres of our wildest national forestlands, including 2 million acres in Oregon. It safeguards popular public lands like Tumalo Mountain and the headwaters of Tumalo Creek, the forests around Sparks and Hosmer Lakes, vast sections of the Pacific Crest Trail and the old-growth of Lookout Mountain in the Ochocos.

The Trump administration is repealing this popular policy for “wildfire safety and prevention.” But the science shows that removing protections for Roadless Areas would likely lead to more wildfires.

A new study found that less than 1% of U.S. fires since 2010 started in Roadless Areas. Instead, most fires— including the most deadly and costly ones—start near homes and communities, and in heavily roaded, logged and developed forests. Another recent study found that fires are four times more likely to start near a road than in a roadless area. That’s because 85% of fires are human-caused, and more roads mean more humans.

“Wildfire safety” is just a charade. This isn’t about fire; it’s about selling out our public lands to private industries. The Roadless Rule is one of the most important policies we have in keeping our wild forests healthy and our communities safe.

Repealing the Roadless Rule would be devastating for fish and wildlife habitat, clean drinking water sources, outdoor

recreation opportunities, local economies and community safety. Instead, we should permanently protect these wild forests through legislation like the Roadless Area Conservation Act, which Senators Wyden and Merkley and Rep. Bynum have all co-sponsored.

—Sami Godlove

Letter of the Week:

Most of us live in Central Oregon because nature is our cathedral. Sami, we stand with you. As Letter of the Week, you can stop by our office at NW Bond & Georgia for a gift card to Palate Coffee.

—Managing Editor, Nic Moye

Government Roundup

Bend City Council Work Session

June 24

The Bend City Council discussed ways to remove barriers to building more middle housing, specifically as infill development, which occurs on small lots in already developed neighborhoods and is usually served by aging infrastructure. Changes in state policy now allow more housing types and neighborhood density. The City is seeing challenges when developers want to build multi-family housing, as infill development. Current infrastructure requirements for middle housing, such as townhomes and duplexes, include sidewalk improvements, sewer/water extensions, special setbacks and possible street frontage improvements. During the work session on June 24, City staff presented examples of when the cost to meet those requirements discouraged builders from completing a small housing project. Short-term solutions discussed by the City Council include modifying sidewalk requirements in areas where there are no sidewalks or the sidewalk was installed prior to the current code; using city funds to assist with utility extensions/upgrades, evaluating stormwater disposal options and expand the list of roads that do not need to be widened.

Deschutes County Planning Commission

June 25

The Deschutes County Planning Commission decided to reopen the public hearing about the City of Sisters’ plan to expand its Urban Growth Boundary by approximately 250 acres. Sisters began the process in 2023 and the public hearing closed in May of this year with the written record open until June 25. The County received a number of written comments including objections from three state agencies: the Department of Land Conservation and Development, the Department of State Lands and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The planning commission agreed to reopen the public hearing on July 9 for the state and any interested party to provide testimony before the planning commission votes on the UGB expansion.

The Deschutes County Planning Commission also held a work session on June 25 about code amendments to address requests from private parties to create family burial plots on private land. County staff indicated they receive several requests a year. While there is a state law addressing private internments, the County may amend its code to create a review procedure for requests, align local code with state law and ensure there is adequate longterm documentation of burial locations. The code amendment may also include rules such as requiring burials be 100feet from wells, springs or other drinking water sources; 50-feet from streams, rivers and lakes; 25-feet from property lines and 50-feet away from onsite wastewater systems. The planning commission will hold a public hearing on the matter later in July.

Six Oregon Cities, Including Bend, Have Some of the Highest Rates of Alcohol-Induced Death in the Nation for People 65+

An aging population, lack of rural treatment and health care, low alcohol taxes and a pervasive drinking culture all contribute to the high death rates

By Khushboo Rathore, Oregon Journalism Project

Six Oregon metro areas have some of the highest rates of alcohol-induced death in the nation for people 65 and older, according to a recent industry study.

Roseburg (second), Eugene-Springfield (fourth) and Medford (fifth) are among the top five nationally. Salem (ninth), Bend (11th) and the Portland metro area (15th) fill out the ranks with other cities such as Anchorage, Alaska; Reno, Nevada; and Spokane, Washington.

The report, based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Census Bureau, draws attention to a chronic Oregon public health problem:

Oregonians die from alcohol at a rate 83% higher than the national average, according to CDC data. It’s a problem that has gone unchecked for decades.

The new report on the metro areas with the highest alcohol-induced death rates was released in early June by Woodlands Grove Recovery Campus, a substance abuse and mental health treatment center in Ohio.

CEO John Daily says his company is treating more older patients for alcohol issues than ever before. One reason for the increase seen in Oregon and elsewhere, he believes, is the heightened social isolation in rural areas caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.

“They’re by themselves and now they’re drinking, “ he says.

Alcohol is the third leading cause of preventable death in Oregon, according to deputy state epidemiologist Tom Jeanne, trailing only tobacco and obesity.

“Even a couple of drinks a day every day can harm your health,” Jeanne says. “It raises your risk for multiple types of heart disease and all sorts of other [illnesses].”

Although alcohol consumption in the U.S. is dropping overall, the rate of alcohol use among the baby boomer population is growing, according to a National Institutes of Health study.

Older people are at higher risk of alcohol-induced death because they are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases treated with medications that can interact with alcohol in harmful ways, Jeanne says.

Many of them live in rural areas with limited access to treatment and health care services, which can contribute to alcohol mortality risks, he says.

With its long-standing pride in its craft beer, wine and distilling industries, Oregon also has a cultural acceptance of drinking that some researchers say contributes to higher rates of alcohol misuse, defined as more than one drink per day for women and two for men.

Oregon’s problem with alcohol can also be attributed in part to the lack of a general sales tax and low specialized taxes on beer and wine, which make them far cheaper in Oregon than in other states, Jeanne says. Higher prices are one of the best ways to discourage excessive drinking, he says.

The state’s beer and wine industries have successfully fought legislative efforts to raise taxes on their products. Oregon’s penny per pint excise tax on beer hasn’t changed in nearly half a century.

“As inflation goes on, especially the big inflation we have now, every year is effectively lowering the tax,” Jeanne says.

To combat this public health problem, the Oregon Health Authority launched a prevention campaign in 2022. “Rethink the Drink” encourages Oregonians to be wary of even seemingly modest drinking.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you can call Oregon’s free and confidential Alcohol and Drug Helpline at 800923-4357, available 24/7/365.

— This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom for the state of Oregon. Learn more at oregonjournalismproject.org.

Bend Whitewater Park Due for Major Overhaul as Planning Continues

A maintenance project that could include reconstructing waves, berms and banks in the manmade riverscape likely won’t begin construction for several years

By Clayton Franke

Arevamp of Bend’s river wave, tubing and fish passage channel and nearby water access is moving ahead in the early stages of planning, but it may still be years before construction begins.

The project will mark the most significant changes to the Bend Whitewater Park since it was built in 2015 and upgraded the following two winters. The Bend Park and Recreation District is aiming to address lingering issues with safety, bank erosion, channel scour and controllable gates that shape water flow.

The project could also include rebuilding parts of the park to make recreation better for tubers, surfers and other boaters.

Ian Isaacson, landscape architect with the park district, told the Source he will give an update on the project for the district’s board of directors on July 21. The district hasn’t decided on exactly what changes it plans to make.

Isaacson said he plans to put together a timeline for the project in the next couple of weeks. Recently, staff and consultants have been in talks with various regulatory agencies that will be involved with the project, which will be more complicated than a typical construction project because of the Deschutes River.

“We’re in the very, very beginning stages of developing some conceptual designs,” Isaacson said. “That’s where the project is at right now.”

The total funding for the project is $15.3 million.

Last summer, staff presented findings of a study with a host of recommendations for upgrades at the park. At a minimum, those included filling in scour holes, removing hazardous boulders, fixing foot entrapment hazards, reconstructing walls of the surf wave and parts of the island between channels to address erosion.

The study, produced by consultant Recreation Engineering and Planning,

also said the fish passage channel — a series of small drops and pools popular with tubers in the summer — should be reconstructed and widened, while an upstream takeout near the Colorado Avenue bridge should be upgraded and an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant path constructed along the bank.

To build only the minimum recommendations would cost between $5 million to $9 million, while going beyond the minimum would cost up to $12 million.

If the district chooses to make further upgrades, it could also rebuild two of the whitewater waves to make them better for kayakers and other boaters, rebuild the tubing channel for a wider variety of drops and widen the island median.

According to Isaacson, the new whitewater park design will need to account for a future where river flows are expected to be more consistent year-round. A new conservation plan drafted by the state aims to provide more water for fish and frogs, which will mean more water released from Wickiup Reservoir upstream during the winter. That will require reshaping banks and gates to accommodate higher cold-season flows, according to Isaacson. The flows are expected to change by 2029 or 2030.

The project also includes access and landscape upgrades at McKay Park, which abuts the river just below the whitewater channels.

It will likely match the aesthetic of the project the park district completed in 2025 at Miller’s Landing across the river, with new boulders, concrete structures, paths and stairs. It’s part of a series of river access and restoration projects the park district is undertaking, with another planned project at Columbia Park expected to begin construction later this year just downstream. The park district also expects to replace the wooden footbridge spanning the Deschutes next to the park.

A Close Look at Bend PD’s Updated Policy on Automated License Plate Reader Technology

The nine-page document offers more transparency into the department’s high-tech surveillance operation, yet questions remain

By Peter Madsen

The Bend Police Department has made good on its intention to shore up its internal policy on automated license plate reader technology with Senate Bill 1516.

As more law enforcement agencies adopt surveillance technologies, both government leaders and the public are calling for more scrutiny and oversight. Part of that scrutiny involves who gets access to the data. Yet in reviewing Bend PD’s updated Policy 428, questions remain surrounding the mandated end-to-end-encryption and when Bend PD will begin posting its monthly audits for public review.

In 2022, Bend PD signed a contract with Axon, a surveillance company, for body cameras, tasers, a cloud-serviced datahub called Evidence.com and about 70 in-vehicle Fleet 3 dash cams equipped with automated license plate reader technology. The department launched the AI-powered dash cameras in 2023.

For just as long, Bend PD has set an internal automated license plate reader policy for itself that details the permitted uses and safeguards of the technology. Without secure data systems, people’s information can end up in the wrong hands.

When Gov. Tina Kotek signed Senate Bill 1516, a law establishing the state’s ALPR framework on March 31, law enforcement agencies needed to make policy updates accordingly. The muchmore-detailed version of Policy 428, which Bend PD published in mid-May, includes broadened safeguards around privacy, accountability and civil rights protections. Policy 428 also reiterates that Bend PD is the sole owner of the ALPR database and that its information may not be shared or sold to a third party.

SB 1516 also mandated that ALPR vendors release 30-day and quarterly audits, which law enforcement agencies must be published within two days of receipt. Yet the public can’t review Bend PD’s audits — which will include the name of the agency making the query, the reason, and the date and time — because the department hasn’t yet received any audits from Axon.

In contrast, the Sunriver Police Department has been publishing monthly ALPR audits to its website since March, through its vendor, Flock Safety. The department operates four stationary ALPR cameras at entry-andexit points along Highway 97. In May,

26 ALPR queries, all made internally by SRPD employees, involved incidents of theft, wanted persons, hit-and-run accidents and numerous DUIIs.

Bend PD officials told the Source the department is working with Axon to develop a long-term solution that automates the delivery process of 30-day and quarterly audits.

Bend PD Capt. Nick Parker, who oversees the department’s ALPR program as the Support Service Division captain, says he feels “pretty good” about the policy he helped co-author. In particular, he points to the section that highlights how ALPR technology won’t be used; namely, in surveilling activity protected by the First Amendment or aiding federal immigration enforcement and out-of-state abortion investigations and prosecutions.

“We felt it was important to make very clear: Here’s the way we’re going to operate ALPR. It doesn’t leave any questions about what we’re using this for,” Parker said. “We want to be transparent about how the wrong folks aren’t getting our information and that we’re utilizing our information in the most appropriate way.”

Additionally, Bend PD’s ALPR policy acknowledges that some ALPR records may be conditionally disclosed under Oregon Public Records Law. Requests must identify an approximate place and

time, but license plate numbers, vehicle characteristics, faces and other identifiable features will be redacted before disclosure.

Since SB 1516 became law, local privacy advocates have shared their thoughts on surveillance technology during Bend City Council and Deschutes County Board of County Commissioner meetings. One area of concern is that Axon doesn’t meet the new law’s end-to-end encryption standard. According to the legislation, current contracts with ALPR vendors that don’t offer end-to-end encryption are allowed to run their course, yet any contract add-ons or new contracts must ensure end-to-end encryption.

Jonathan Westmoreland, a local privacy advocate who publishes the weekly newsletter Signals & Safeguards, urged the City of Bend to look for a surveillance vendor other than Axon that will leave the encryption keys in the hands of the City.

“How can you have a law where you’re requiring something where there’s no definition of what you’re requiring,” Westmoreland told the Source last month. “What good is a bill if the key requirement is left undefined?”

That’s a roadblock the City of Bend ran into last month when the city manager considered adding on to the current contract with Axon for stationary ALPR cameras along entry and exit points along Highway 97, the Source reported.

The City of Bend’s five-year contract with Axon expires in July 2027. Earlier this month, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert forewent ALPR technology when he solicited a $2.4 million contract with Axon for tasers, body cameras and conventional dashboard cameras. Rupert said he’d heeded the public’s concerns around the surveillance technology, since the Source reported that federal immigration authorities violated Oregon sanctuary laws when they queried the Bend PD’s ALPR database — maintained by a different vendor, Flock Safety — 279 times in June 2025.

Sen. Floyd Prozanski is a Eugene Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee that workshopped the bill. Reached by phone, Prozanski says he’s not concerned that Axon hasn’t begun sending Bend PD its audits, yet steps toward compliancy should be underway.

Since SB 1516 became law, privacy advocates have expressed frustration with the sparsely articulated end-to-end encryption mandate. Prozanski said he’s open to a work group in a future legislative session to further define E2EE. A strict definition would preclude vendors like Axon, which retain a database access key for scheduled maintenance, from doing business in Oregon when its current contracts expire. But that doesn’t bother Prozanski.

“I think that’s a marketing issue for the vendors, as to whether they want to be in the Oregon market that has these restrictions,” Prozanski said. “If a vendor wants to be a player in the state, they must meet the criteria. But personally, I don’t see vendors walking away from this market share.”

Also noteworthy is the standard of entering license-plate data onto a hot list, which flags suspect vehicles that alert an officer of a recent spotting. For an officer, whether internal or from another state department to add to or query a hot list, reasonable suspicion (more than a hunch) or probable cause (which is a 51% scale-tip toward reasonable doubt, for example) must be articulated. Hot list data not tied to an investigation or prosecution is deleted after eight days, unless there’s justification for re-entry. Aggregated license plate data is deleted after 30 days.

Local News Bites

Arrests, layoffs, road closures and emergency plans happening in Deschutes County

By Nic Moye

Input wanted to support Deschutes County’s Natural Disaster Emergency Plan

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, is seeking public input for its Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan. The goal is to better understand individual preparedness, risk and vulnerability to natural hazards.

In a previous survey, nearly 800 people responded. When asked about top hazards experienced, 62% listed winter storms, 58% said wildfire and 40% said extreme heat. Many of the households have signed up for emergency alerts but fewer had documented their property, built emergency savings or completed more complex preparedness steps. Obstacles cited were time, cost, storage limitations and lack of information.

All cities and counties in Oregon have comprehensive plans to comply with statewide planning goals which call for inventories, policies and ordinances to guide development away from hazard areas to reduce risk. The plan addresses hazards such as drought, earthquake, extreme weather, volcanic events and wildfire. Public input is needed to ensure the plan maintains a coordinated response to the changing conditions and needs of the community. It’s developed by the Deschutes County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Steering Committee and the Steering Committees for the cities of Bend, La Pine, Redmond, and Sisters. A link to the 2026 Deschutes County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan and public survey can be found at bendsource.com in the “Business News” section. The survey is open through July 13.

St. Charles eliminates dozens of jobs

St. Charles Health System is cutting 22 leadership positions that are currently filled along with 23 vacant positions. Hospital officials say the cuts are to address rapid growth related to an increase in population resulting in a demand for care, mostly in the outpatient and specialty services areas. St. Charles recently completed an evaluation of leadership positions throughout the health system. The resulting changes are aimed at structuring the system to accommodate the demand. The hospital says no direct patient care positions will be impacted by the changes, which is less than one percent of the St. Charles workforce.

In a news release, incoming president and CEO Michael Hartke said, “We have been in a position to step in and support maintaining some key services in the region in recent years including orthopedics and neurosurgery, pharmacy, urology, gastroenterology and specialized cancer care, just to name a few.”

Dozens arrested for driving under the influence

Over a four-day period from June 10-14 which coincided with the Sisters Rodeo, the Central Oregon Multi-Agency Traffic Team pulled over 831 drivers. Of those, officers made 34 DUII arrests, issued 523 citations and 578 warnings. Most of the offenses involved speeding and straying from a lane. Failing to wear a seat belt and distracted driving round out the list.

The Central Oregon MATT is a joint task force involving Bend Police, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police, Black Butte Ranch Police, Sunriver Police and Oregon State Police. Their goal is to prevent deadly and serious-injury car crashes.

Redmond firefighter to be honored

A public memorial service will be held for a Redmond firefighter/ paramedic who died on June 7 from leukemia at the age of 30. Michael Kienzle started his career with the Corvallis Fire Department, joining Redmond Fire & Rescue in 2024 He was diagnosed last year with a rare form of T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He leaves behind a one-year-old son and his wife, Lisa, who’s a softball coach at Caldera High School. Kienzle’s memorial service is 11am on July 11 at the Deschutes County Fairground Events Center. Redmond Fire & Rescue will escort the family to the fairgrounds. It’s open to the public and will also be livestreamed. A link to the livestream can be found at bendsource.com.

Busy Bend road restricted to one lane

Starting Monday, July 6, the westbound lane of Franklin Avenue in Bend will be closed for one month from NE Third to NE Fourth Street. A detour will route traffic onto NE Ninth Street to Greenwood Avenue and back to Third Street. Other daytime work, and some night work, will continue in one or two block sections between Fourth Street to First. Eastbound traffic will remain open until September. Crews are upgrading waterlines, installing stormwater dry wells and making safety improvements.

In September work will move from First to Hill Streets, requiring a full closure of Franklin Avenue. The undercrossing will reopen temporarily from Thanksgiving through New Year's Day. In January Franklin will close again from First to Harriman Streets. One sidewalk through the underpass will always remain open for pedestrians and bikes. The entire road project is expected to be finished next June.

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Says It Search-and-Rescued $1 Million in Projected Savings

Sheriff Ty Rupert says he’s delivered on a fiduciary promise to taxpayers, but not back-filling top-brass positions has its costs

By Peter Madsen

Deschutes County Interim Sheriff

Rupert says he’s projected to save taxpayers $1 million in the coming fiscal year. Yet some of these cost-cutting measures run the risk of financial pitfalls down the road.

Deschutes County Commissioners approved the $72.16 million budget for the Sheriff’s Office on June 17, which is about 16% of the County’s overall budget of $446.1 million for FY 2027. The DCSO’s budget ticked upward by 4.76% since last year. In a press release last week, Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert said he’s found $1 million in projected savings.

come with its own operational costs.

A captain position, previously occupied by William Bailey since July 2022, has been unoccupied since August 2025. That’s when then-Sheriff van der Kamp placed Bailey on paid leave pending an internal investigation.

Rupert is running a campaign for Sheriff in the November election that centers on fiscal mindedness. The projected savings have allowed Rupert’s office to balance the budget and add four newly hired deputies to the county’s adult jail.

Of the $1 million in projected savings, the DCSO told the Source that about $300,000 of fat has been trimmed from the DCSO previous administrations’ excesses.

In conversation with the Source in November, Rupert mentioned how paying vendor invoices within 10 days of receipt generally allows for a negotiated discount of 1 to 2%. Those discounts are projected to save $25,000 each year. Nixing the travel agency will free up $65,000 each year. Foregoing new vehicle graphics will save $14,000, and tasking the DCSO Automotive Unit with the install of 100 new in-vehicle Axon Fleet 3 cameras (instead of hiring vendor technicians) rescued $83,000. And eschewing automated license plate reader technology will save taxpayers $74,000 annually and $372,000 across the five-year, $2.4 million contract, the Source reported.

Rupert has shaken down the lion’s share of projected savings — $700,000 — by not backfilling spendy top-brass positions that include an undersheriff, a captain, a lieutenant and two administrative roles including an evidence room clerk. A patrol deputy position has also not been backfilled, the DCSO confirmed.

Yet having gaps in top positions may

When Rupert began serving as interim sheriff in early August, he resumed that internal investigation into Bailey’s conduct, outsourcing it to a third-party investigator, while Bailey remained on paid administrative leave. The investigation found Bailey in violation of personnel rules. On March 2, his employment was terminated, but not by Rupert — who recused himself from the decision because he’d been a witness in the investigation — but by a county administrator. Bailey has appealed that decision to the BOCC, which on April 22 approved a third-party arbitrator.

By not filling Bailey’s captain position, Rupert has factored in $14,000 of monthly salary savings into his projection for Fiscal Year 2027, the DCSO confirmed.

Yet if Rupert had backfilled the $250,000-year undersheriff position, which Aaron Wells left when he went to the Bend Police Department in October, the new undersheriff could have made an impartial ruling on the investigation into Bailey’s conduct, potentially saving the County thousands of dollars for the third-party arbitration.

(DCSO spokesperson Jason Carr told the Source that Rupert would have referred the matter to the county even if an undersheriff had been in place to ensure neutrality.)

As the Source previously reported, if Bailey isn’t reinstated, he has the option to sue DCSO for wrongful termination and other allegations.

The DCSO told the Source that the potential termination of Det. Lt. James “Mac” McLaughlin and the two other DCSO employees, which Sheriff Rupert placed on paid administrative leave on June 5 pending a misconduct investigation, has not factored into projected savings. McLaughlin is Rupert’s opponent for Sheriff in the November election.

Prineville Wants More Out of Its Next Data Center Deal

Tech giants got huge tax breaks for building a data center hub in the small Central Oregon city. Now, as some of those expire, leaders say they’re in a good position to make future data centers pay up.

By Clayton Franke

“It’s a far healthier community than I have experienced. We are more financially stable now than we have ever been because of the revenue generated by the data center. That’s a big factor.”

— Prineville City Councilor, Steve Uffelman

The matte grey siding of Meta’s largest running data center campus in the U.S. is visible from the window of the Wild Rooster Bar and Grill, which opened six months ago in Prineville. Outside on the patio, a group of data center employees chew on sandwiches and toss cornhole bags. Inside, the bartender says her husband just got hired, too. But it’s no use asking about it. The workers are sworn to secrecy about their jobs.

Many who might have once worked in Prineville’s sawmills or Les Schwab’s former tire headquarters now support operations in data centers — large computer warehouses storing massive amounts of digital information for tech and social media giants like Meta, Facebook’s parent company, and Apple.

Prineville attracted some of Oregon’s first large data centers about 15 years ago with its cool, dry climate, plentiful land, cheap power and friendly tax breaks. Today, City and economic development leaders credit the data centers with squashing the high unemployment rates and lifting low wages that followed the downturn of the timber industry. They also point to fee revenue fueled by data center development as a huge boost for building streets and other public infrastructure.

But as data center development has proliferated across Oregon, public sentiment has quickly turned southward. That’s fueled by concerns over water and power consumption, noise and light, and the general boom in artificial intelligence driving the need for more data centers. Recent proposals in Central Oregon have been met with fierce pushback.

State policymakers are taking a hard look at the industry — and particularly whether they should continue to receive hefty property tax exemptions. Earlier this year Gov. Tina Kotek appointed a new Statewide Data Center Advisory Committee to develop a regulatory framework that could shape where data centers go, the resources they use and the tools local communities have for enticing them.

Prineville is near the center of that discussion. City leaders see a chance to bring in more data centers — but this time, they hope to get more out of it.

“I think we have a tremendous opportunity here in the state of Oregon,” Prineville City Manager Steve Forrester told the advisory committee over a video call on June 26. “We are in a much stronger position today than we have been. The demand for this type of technology is fantastic.”

“The best we have been”

When data centers first approached Prineville in 2009, the City was looking for anything to pull its economy out of the dumps.

As the timber industry crashed, unemployment climbed to 20% and the population started to drop.

Today, unemployment sits at 6%, the population is growing and Crook County has the second-highest average annual wages in Oregon, according to Forrester.

“It’s a far healthier community than I have experienced,” longtime City Councilor Steve Uffelman told the Source. “This is the best we have been.”

Uffelman said a large part of that is thanks to data centers.

Meta’s data center campus — its largest in the country — first began construction in 2010 and expanded several times. There are 11 buildings and a total of 4.6 million square feet, about the size of 80 football fields. The company has poured about $2 billion into building the facility.

Apple also has a large data center campus in Prineville, but the company has released far less information about it and didn’t respond to a request for comment on this story.

An economic analysis completed by the City this year says data centers employ about 700 people, a majority of the new jobs added in Prineville since 2008.

The analysis cites data centers as a driver of average wages that rose from about $34,700 that same year to $72,100 in 2022.

“It’s changed Prineville,” former Prineville Mayor Jason Beebe told the state committee in February. “It’s changed it for the good.”

With his term set to expire a the end of this year, Beebe unexpectedly resigned in June, citing personal reasons. Uffelman has been filling in as mayor.

Huge tax breaks on the table

Despite the huge investment, the companies haven’t paid anything in local property taxes. The tax value exempted for data centers this year adds up to more than $130 million, according to a report from the Crook County Assessor’s Office. That includes City, County, school district and other taxes.

That’s set to change next year, when Facebook’s first tax break deal will expire. County Assessor Jon Soliz said it’s not yet clear how much of a boost each local jurisdiction will get, but leaders anticipate it will be sizable. Forrester told the state committee that Prineville will roughly double its property tax revenue.

The data centers negotiated the property tax exemptions with Prineville and Crook County leaders through Oregon’s Long-Term Rural Enterprise Zone program, which was created in 1985 to spur large-scale business investment.

Those incentives have been thrust into the spotlight amid debates over data centers across the state. Some feel they are far too big of a break to award to tech giants with not enough community benefit. The Oregon legislature put a one-year pause on the tax exemption program for data centers that began in early June, stirring a slew of new applications seeking to sign deals before the deadline. In Hillsboro, several groups including a land-use nonprofit and a teachers union sued the City over new tax breaks. Community uproar has led the City to consider a temporary ban on new data center development.

Oregon has the ninth-most data centers nationwide, with 142, according to a Pew Research Center analysis. Along with cheap power and open land, Oregon has no sales tax, meaning data center companies also save millions on purchasing expensive equipment.

“There’s really no reason why communities in Oregon should be giving these companies full property tax abatements,” said Kasia Tarczynska, a senior research analyst with Good Jobs First, a government and business accountability group.

Data centers provide a relatively low number of permanent jobs for the amount of subsidies they receive, Tarczynska said. Building the data centers can provide an influx of construction jobs, but sometimes the workers are hired from outside the area, she said.

On June 28, 66 workers at Meta’s data center campus lost their jobs after the company ended a contract with an IT services contractor. Meta’s spokesperson said the company plans to rehire a majority of the workers through a different firm.

Research from Good Jobs First has found that Oregon has given up hundreds of millions of dollars in data center tax breaks as education budgets suffer across the state. In 2024 schools lost $275 million statewide, according to the research. The losses more than doubled since 2019. For the Crook County School District, tax exemption totals jumped from $10 million to $29 million as more data centers came online. In 2024 that was the second-highest total in the state — although there’s only a peripheral link between the Crook County district’s budget and the tax losses, because local education taxes are reallocated across the state.

Meta says it has given more than $5 million in direct contributions to Crook County schools and local nonprofits over the years. And Prineville leaders point to the fact that while tax breaks stripped millions from local jurisdictions, data centers’ electricity usage has driven up the fees that power utilities pay for street access, which the City can reinvest in public services. Since 2011, that fee revenue has risen from about $430,000 to nearly $11 million — nearly three

times the City’s annual property tax revenue, according to officials.

“We are more financially stable now than we have ever been because of the revenue generated by the data center. That’s a big factor,” Uffelman said.

Still, Prineville leaders agree that they likely won’t negotiate a full property tax abatement the next time a data center comes around.

But the tax breaks helped incentivize a new industry in Prineville, Forrester said.

He acknowledged the state has given hundreds of millions in tax breaks. But, “If they weren’t here, we’d have nothing to give away,” he told the state committee.

Thwarted proposals

Other Central Oregon cities haven’t been so friendly to data centers.

Most recently, the La Pine City Council rejected a data center development proposed for an industrial park where they have jurisdiction over the tenants. That followed a surge of pushback on social media and at public meetings as the City started to explore a potential agreement.

A similar scenario played out in early 2025 in Christmas Valley, a small, unincorporated town 100 miles southeast of Bend. Developers withdrew a proposal to rezone 20 acres of land for a data center after Lake County planning commissioners voted against it.

Data centers are also top of mind in Jefferson County, where Madras Interim City Administrator David Clyne recently took to Facebook on June 10 to dispel social media rumors that a data center was bound for the city.

“The Council and City staff are aware that these types of developments have become a politically sensitive topic in many communities, including here locally,” Clyne wrote, adding, “To be clear, the City is not currently entertaining a proposal for locating a data center in Madras.”

But some say the potential is real. In 2024 Jefferson County approved an ordinance adding nearly 200

Meta, Facebook’s parent company, has supported numerous community projects, including sponsoring a trail system just outside of Prineville.

acres of land zoned for large industrial uses to the City. The Jefferson County Farm Bureau and land use nonprofit Central Oregon LandWatch appealed, arguing the parcel should be used for farming.

Mickey Killingsworth, treasurer of the farm bureau, is worried about data centers moving into the area, and long-term environmental impacts from the developments. She’s been raising sheep in Jefferson County for nearly 50 years. The County is known for raising about half of the world’s carrot seed.

“We’re not like Prineville,” Killingsworth told the Source. “We don’t support data centers.”

In recent months, candidates running for county commission seats across Central Oregon have come out against new data center proposals, including Julie Thompson in Crook County. She acknowledged the economic benefits and job creation — but said those aren’t worth the costs of high water and power use, potential environmental impacts and aesthetic issues.

She said others feel the same.

“Everybody I’ve talked to, they don’t want more data centers,” Thompson told the Source.

She is skeptical of the City’s assurance that Prineville has plenty of water for the data centers. Prineville has touted its multi-million-dollar underground water storage system developed by the City

“To me it hurts the economy, it doesn’t help the economy. It’s not like it’s benefitting us from having that up there. It’d be different if we benefitted from it.”

— Karl Wilkerson, co-owner of dad's place diner

— and funded by Meta and Apple — built to help ease data centers’ strain on the City’s water supply during hot summer days. The underground storage has about a year’s worth of supply.

Still, the future water supply in the Deschutes Basin is uncertain. Limited water supply and declining aquifer levels have led water regulators to clamp down on issuing new municipal water.

Because it primarily uses outside air rather than water for cooling, Meta’s Prineville campus is more water efficient than others, according to a report that water researchers from several Oregon universities delivered to the state advisory committee in March. The campus used about 70 million gallons of water in 2024, about the same amount as 420 Prineville households used in 2021, and about the same amount as 64 acres of Central Oregon alfalfa watered for a year. Google’s data center campus in The Dalles, which is one-quarter of the size, used five times as much water in 2024.

New polls from Gallup show about three-quarters of Americans oppose data center development in their areas due to environmental and quality of life concerns.

And some in Prineville still feel they haven’t seen the purported economic benefits of data centers.

Karl and Gail Wilkerson are co-owners of Dad’s Place, a diner on Main Street downtown and a Prineville

fixture. For Karl, data centers brought the ills of rapid growth: escalating housing prices, a land supply pinch and loss of some of Prineville’s small-town feel.

While Prineville’s home prices are still lower than Bend or Redmond, they are rising at nearly 17% per year, faster than anywhere in Central Oregon, according to one real estate company.

And rising average wages have driven up costs to run the diner, he said.

“To me it hurts the economy, it doesn’t help the economy. It’s not like it’s benefitting us from having that up there,” he said. Prineville’s data centers sit behind the rimrock overlooking the town. “It’d be different if we benefitted from it.”

More data centers eye Prineville

Uffelman, the longtime councilor, said he doesn’t know what kind of agreements the City will reach with future data centers. But he’s confident more will come.

“I know there are several that are looking seriously,” he said.

Prineville has expanded its urban growth boundary several times to make room for data center expansions. That will need to happen again if the City wants to see more.

The City’s economic analysis found that Prineville has enough small industrial sites to accommodate job growth over the next 20 years, but has run out of large sites over 50 acres — the kind needed for data centers. The analysis says Prineville needs to add 755 acres of buildable industrial lands to the City, pulling in three large industrial tracts of land.

For Uffelman, the expansion will be about attracting more than just data centers. He wants to see a variety of different industries move in to create a more diverse economy.

Gov. Kotek’s move to regulate data centers comes in tandem with an effort to boost Oregon’s suffering business climate. To do so, Kotek’s appointed “Prosperity Council” has recommended slashing regulatory burdens and easing strict land use protections — policies Republicans have praised.

Meanwhile, the data center committee is charged with reporting a set of recommendations by October.

— 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.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, built its first data center in Prineville in 2010, and has since expanded the campus to 11 buildings and 4.6 million square feet.

REDMOND NEWS

Deschutes County to Clear Dozens of Homeless Camps for CORE3 Emergency Center

An asphalt track

and

pad

for

training emergency vehicles are the centerpieces of the project’s first phase

By Clayton Franke

An emergency training center nearly 10 years in the making is on the verge of starting construction in east Redmond, but not before local agencies move dozens of homeless people living in tents and trailers.

Deschutes County staff are drafting agreements to pave the way for CORE3, a planned training facility for police officers and firefighters that will double as a coordination center in emergencies. The agreements would let the County lease the undeveloped site to the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, a quasi-government agency, which would pay $300,000 for the County to clean up the land before taking ownership.

Staff got the nod from county commissioners on June 17 to draft the agreements and bring them before the board at a later date.

The goal is to break ground by mid-September on the first phase of the project — a three-quarter-mile asphalt track and pad for emergency vehicle training, along with fencing around the site and a new road. That’s expected to cost about $10 million, said Ed Fitch, mayor of Redmond and chair of the project’s board of directors. Collaborators on the project include cities, counties, fire, police and other agencies from across Central Oregon.

Leaders envision CORE3 as much more than the first phase, but the funding hasn’t been secured. Fitch said they’ll need another $20-$30 million to build a statewide emergency resilience center at the site that could serve as a headquarters for state government in the event of a large disaster. Fitch cites an earthquake caused by the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which scientists believe could occur in the coming decades.

“The primary objective is to get this done for police and fire training,” Fitch told the Source. “The resiliency center is priority number two.”

But homelessness on undeveloped government-owned lands in Deschutes County has ballooned since agencies started planning for CORE3 in 2018. County officials estimate there are about 60 people living in about 40 encampments across the 300-acre

property along the eastern edge of Redmond’s urban growth boundary, just north of U.S. Highway 126.

That’s part of a larger tension between the City, County and people living outside in east Redmond across a swath of lands slated for industrial development. In an effort to clear the land and address camping, the City and County have ramped up sweeps and cleanups while partnering to build a 36-site managed camp in the area meant to help people transition to housing or shelter. But a lack of service providers willing to run the camp delayed its opening.

As construction projects move ahead, some campers have moved outside of Redmond into an area named the “green zone,” County-owned land without any planned projects.

According to figures presented June 17, environmental remediation of the CORE3 site will cost $1.1 million.

In total, the project has accumulated $36 million in funding, including a $13 million land donation from Deschutes County and nearly $20 million from the Oregon legislature. According to Fitch, another $20 million was earmarked in a bill this session, but the money was never approved. He hopes more funding will come in 2027.

Long term, the CORE3 project could include an indoor training facility, a fire training tower, a covered gun range, and other facilities to help prepare for anything from wildland fires to train car derailments.

“At the rate that we’re growing in Central Oregon, we really wanted to build that into our vision,” Shelby Knight, a project coordinator for the intergovernmental council, told the Board of Commissioners June 17. “However, this is pretty long term. This is going to be opportunistic, it’s going to be as utilization grows, as funding arises and the partners at the table are committed to working toward that vision together.”

Construction of the training track and driving skills pad should be complete by spring 2027. The construction cost for those items is about $8 million, according to a presentation by Knight.

LET’S GET SEWCIAL!

BUILD YOUR SKILLS

Develop sewing skills and build creative community with Fashion Workshop. Bring a sewing or fashion project Fashion Workshop can help give ideas! Youth under 13 should be accompanied by an adult. 4:30-6:30pm at Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Free.

THURSDAY 7/2

COLT FORD

COUNTRY COMES TO TOWN

He is a country singer with a new album, "Must Be The Country." Enjoy food from food trucks while jamming out! 8:30-11pm at General Duffy’s Waterhole, 404 SW Forest Ave., Redmond. $44-125.

SATURDAY 7/4

REDMOND 4TH OF JULY PARADE

PATRIOTIC PARADE

Join this 4th of July celebration of the red, white and blue. Community members and organizations will be parading through downtown at this family-friendly event. 10am-12pm in Downtown Redmond, Sixth St., Redmond. Free.

SOURCE PICKS

WEDNESDAY 7/1

KURT SILVA AND CYNTHIA WEST

DYNAMIC DUO

Kurt Silva, from bands Dry Canyon Stampede and Grits N Gravy, teams up with powerhouse singer Cynthia West from the band Ruckus to form a dynamic musical duo. 7:30-9:30pm at Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Ste. 100, Bend. Free.

FRIDAY 7/3

TIME CAPSULE DANCE PARTY

BLAST FROM THE PAST!

Retro feels and modern dance tunes B2B from DJ Disco Dino, DJ Matty Mooch and featuring members from Bend Burlesque. A chance to travel through time and move with fellow time disrupters! 9pm-1am at The Barrel Room at Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. $40.

SATURDAY 7/4

4TH OF JULY PET PARADE

FESTIVE, FURRY FUN

Pets and pet parents are celebrating the 4th of July! Pet costumes, plenty of water and treats encouraged for hungry and thirsty pups. The parade starts at Harmon Park and ends at Drake Park. Same route as the Christmas Parade. If participants think their pets won't do well in the hot weather; they should bring a stuffed animal instead! 8:30am at Harmon Park, 1100 NW Harmon Blvd, Bend. Free.

SATURDAY 7/4

RED, WHITE & BLUE 3 MILER

RUN FOR PANCAKES!

Fun untimed 3 Miler Run/Walk in Sisters for 4th of July! Comes with a pancake and sausage breakfast, headband and finisher beads! Costume contest, prizes and more! Stay for the Sisters 4th Festivities! Benefits Sisters High School Outlaw XC team! 7:45am-Noon at Village Green Park, 335 S. Elm St., Sisters. $25-40.

SUNDAY 7/5

ALPACA PIANO PICNIC

MUSIC ON THE FARM

Join pianist and composer Paula Dreyer for a magical outdoor concert experience surrounded by friendly, free-roaming alpacas at Flying Dutchman Alpacas in Central Oregon. Relax into the sounds of live piano music in a serene farm setting. 2-3:30pm at Flying Dutchman Alpacas, 65485 Cline Falls Rd., Bend. $40.

SUNDAY 7/5

ZARNA GARG VISITS BEND!

COMEDY TAKEOVER

Bend Comedy Festival Presents Zarna Garg with her unique blend of humor, wit, and fearless social commentary, Zarna Garg has emerged as a comedic trailblazer. An Indian immigrant mom based in New York City, Zarna showcases her sharp and relatable humor in her first comedy special, One in a Billion. 7pm at Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., $50-100.

MONDAY 7/6

CUBAN DANCE CLASSES & SOCIALS

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!

Kick summer off right by learning to dance! Rueda de Casino is an energetic, community-oriented dance from Cuba, where partners dance intermingled and synchronously with other couples. It's a blast - join our growing community! Price is for 4-week progressive series. Class re-starts every month. Dance socials after most classes. 6-7:15pm at Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend. $40.

TUESDAY 7/7

WINE ON THE DECK

SEASONAL FLAVORS

Come sit, relax and learn from the different local wineries featured on our year-round wine list. Each glass will be paired with a unique array of small plates from our chef, using seasonal ingredients to complement each wine. 5-8pm at Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. $81.80.

WEDNESDAY 7/8

CONNER BENNETT

LOCAL TUNES

Way, Bend. Free. Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden! 6-8pm at Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5, 566 SW Mill View.

WEDNESDAY 7/8

AJR

BAND OF BROTHERS

AJR is a New York City pop trio composed of brothers Adam, Jack and Ryan Met. Ahead of the group’s 2015 debut album, "Living Room," AJR notched its first Billboard Hot 100 single with 2013’s “I’m Ready.” The band’s 2017 followup The Click broke onto the Billboard 200 behind the quadruple-platinum lead single “Weak” and Rivers Cuomo collaboration “Sober Up.” 6:30-10pm at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr., Bend. $80.75.

S SOUND The Head and The Heart

Celebrating 15 years with a tour honoring its debut album

By Chris Young

In 2022, The Head and The Heart released its melancholic opus, “Every Shade of Blue,” a 16-track “collection of songs that celebrates the beautiful mess that we were during this time of transformation,” the band wrote on Instagram. The opening notes of the title song introduced the exquisite complexity that characterized the album as a whole.

The album documented how six individuals separated by COVID-19 could bring their disparate ideas together, but the result was admittedly disjointed amongst some standout moments. It was also the final record of the band’s major-label deal with Warner Bros.

“Aperture,” the band’s sixth LP, released last May, couldn’t have come together more differently.

“With this one, we just wanted to be way more concise,” drummer Tyler Williams said in a recent interview, “but also more together through the whole writing process, where we’re all touching the songs from the beginning.”

Over the course of more than 15 years, The Head and The Heart has produced dozens of relatable, sentimental songs, establishing itself as a folk-pop band full of choral harmonies, catchy songwriting and inviting performances. The band members are currently touching back on their beginnings with a tour in which they’ll play their self-titled debut album to celebrate its 15th anniversary.

That’s not the only reminder the group has had recently of their early years. By the spring of 2023, the six musicians had no label or manager. They went into “Aperture” being bound by no one but themselves and it was a familiar feeling. The group’s self-titled breakout in 2011, which was picked up by Seattle’s legendary Sub Pop Records, was the last time they’d self-produce one of their records.

“We felt like we were in that position again where we were doing it for ourselves and not really having deadlines or outside influence or pressure put on us. So it really did feel like we were back to those beginning years in more ways than one,” Williams said.

The “Aperture” project began in Richmond, Virginia, in April 2023 at The Brink, a recording studio run by Mike Reina. It also just happens to be across the street from Williams’ home. With two-thirds of the band present — including oft-songwriter and guitar player Jonathan Russell, pianist Kenny Hensley, bassist Chris Zasche and Williams — “things just felt a little more spontaneous where we were not even really talking about song structure or

chords or anything like that,” Williams said. “We were really just jamming in the moment, and fully formed songs were coming out of that. And that was exciting, because we’ve never really written that way before.”

Violinist Charity Rose Thielen and guitarist Matty Gervais were intentionally left behind as the couple had recently welcomed their second baby in Seattle. But the pair were ecstatic to hear the foursome’s efforts from this first session, which included the emotive album tracks, “Pool Break” and “Cop Car.”

The latter is “a great example of the in-the-moment spontaneity that I’m talking about,” Williams said. “We literally ran a click track and just played music to this guitar part that Chris had, and basically what you hear is the one and only time we had ever played that song before. And then Jon just went and ad libbed his vocal. We were like, ‘Wow, I can’t believe how fast this is coming together,’ but we still needed that bridge part and an outro.”

Embracing the collaborative spirit, Williams reflected on Russell’s lyrics with a refrain of “Ridin’ in a cop car tonight” and the metaphor he’d constructed. He continued to improvise the song’s bridge — the first time he’d ever sung lead on one of their songs.

To wrap up the concept, Hensley brought the gospel-tinged “This Little Light of Mine” outro to the table. Inspired by how Jason Pierce of Spiritualized often sheds light on dark themes, The Head And The Heart wanted to

twist the whole song on its head and express that “redemption and hope for something better to come out of a bad situation,” Williams said.

There’s a stark rawness to “Cop Car” in the intensity of Russell’s cracking vocal accompanied by unpolished studio sounds like muffled chatter and laughter. But it all meshes so perfectly with the tried-and-true group harmonies, a hymn that harkens back to so many of those classic singalongs from their debut.

The Head and The Heart have seen how audiences react to an ethereal moment like “Cop Car” in concert. “We’ve actually started extending that outro, because it just feels so good to sing together as a whole venue of people,” Williams said.

Some of The Head and The Heart’s most enduring early work features a songwriter and singer who’s no longer with the band. Founding member Josiah Johnson left the group in 2016 to focus on his addiction issues with drugs and alcohol. Gervais stepped in.

On “Aperture,” Gervais has found his footing and become integral to the group’s sound.

“He went into this record process fully himself and ready to attack these songs with a tenacity that I’ve rarely seen in songwriters,” Williams described.

Gervais took home impromptu jams from various sessions in Richmond or Seattle and returned with “full lyrics, melodies and beautiful top lines and all this stuff,” Williams said, adding that time and again, Gervais “created this

beautiful piece” when “we thought it was just a jam.”

“Watching him fully step up on this album and really taking the reins, you know, I think he’s the MVP on this record for sure,” Williams added. “And it’s beautiful the way that the other songwriters have allowed that to happen as well, where there’s now this space for everyone to be on this record.”

In the early days of The Head and The Heart, everyone lived in Seattle, some even in the same house. Now, the band has two sort-of home bases on either coast, but distance makes the heart grow fonder. “We’re kind of back to that living-in-one-house, family feel again, and that was how this record really was made,” Williams said.

The record’s title has a few different meanings, but “one of the ideas is opening up the aperture to the collective vision of this band and allowing all of those influences onto the record,” Williams explained. For the first time in a long time, the six members had full autonomy to do whatever they wanted to do, and everyone contributed to the final product.

“It’s kind of amazing how many songs we were able to create in the moment when we’re all feeling trusting of each other,” Williams said. “This album also feels vulnerable because it is so much us. There’s so much of our spirits in it. Collectively, I think, more so than almost any record since the debut album, everyone was very heavily involved in this record in a way that can feel vulnerable when you put your souls on the line and you let out your inner thoughts.”

Discussing another, more poetic perspective, Williams said: “The aperture on a camera is the technical piece that allows more light in to expose the image. It’s the idea of allowing more light in, even though there’s darkness, and I think the song ‘Aperture’ is really about that. You can get lost in a rabbit hole of doomscrolling on your phone. You can get lost in politics and war and all this poverty and terrible things happening to immigrants in the streets every day. Focusing on the brighter moments can enhance your life. You can feel alive while also fighting for good in this world.”

The Head and The Heart Sun, July 12 6pm Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend bendconcerts.com $69.35+

After a lengthy break, the musician has rekindled her creative side

By Dave Gil de Rubio

S SOUND Sarah McLachlan: Better Broken Tour

For nearly a decade, Sarah McLachlan took a break from making music and instead was busy fundraising for the not-for-profit Sarah McLachlan School of Music, which provides free music education and mentorship to underserved children and youth facing barriers to music education access in three Canadian cities. Along with being a mom of two teenage girls, it was enough to occupy her time.

But in 2024, McLachlan rediscovered her love of making music after connecting with the production duo of Tony Berg and Will MacLellan — a notable turn considering she had partnered with producer Pierre Marchand beginning with her 1991 album, “Solace,” right on through her previous release, 2016’s “Wonderland.”

“I had a meeting with a gentleman named Tony Berg and instantly formed a great connection with him,” McLachlan explained. “I went to L.A. for a week to work with him and Will MacLellan, who is a Canadian. We kind of ended up falling madly in love and just creating this bond where the two of them just completely reignited this passion (in me) for being in the studio for that creation and collaboration. It was just an incredible experience.”

That session led to completing McLachlan’s current album, the 2025 release, “Better Broken.”

And while McLachlan, a native of Nova Scotia, enjoyed doing the initial one-week sessions with Berg and MacLellan, she felt some residual guilt over not working with Marchand and had to resolve that issue before fully embracing her new partnership with Berg and MacLellan.

“I took a bit of time to think about how I wanted to do the record,” she said. “I worked for years with Pierre Marchand. We had an incredible relationship and did a lot of great records together. But I thought at the time that this might be my last record, and if it was, I owed it to myself to step out, challenge myself, get out of my comfort zone and work with somebody new. I felt like I was cheating on Pierre until we had a conversation about it. He gave me his blessing and said he totally understood, so that kind of set me free to pursue this new (producing) relationship.”

the wheels of the great machine building back up, so when you’re away 11 years, it takes a lot of work to get back into the game, which is not my favorite part. The older I get, the more of a homebody I become.

“Making a record equates leaving,” she added with a laugh. “I think that was one of the things that held me

“I met Wendy a couple of years ago,” McLachlan said. “Brandi Carlile was doing a Joni Jam at The Gorge (Amphitheatre in Washington state) and she had brought all these musicians together. She introduced me to Wendy. Wendy took me aside that day and said she just wanted to tell me the song I wrote, ‘Angel,’ was incredibly healing for her family. I had not made the connection. In that moment, she said that was her brother, that I wrote that song about him. We were both weeping. We had this really intense bonding moment. As it turns out, she’s one of Tony’s best friends.”

With McLachlan fully back in creative mode, she’s ready to reconnect with a devoted fanbase she’s cultivated since she dropped her 1988 debut, “Touch.” It’s a relationship she cherishes so much that she reached out on social media to gauge what expectations might be for her “Better Broken” tour.

“I believe in giving my audience the show they want, so I’m going to do my best to make those things work,” McLachlan said. “Obviously I am going to be doing a bunch of ‘Better Broken’ stuff, but I’m fully aware that my fans want to hear the old stuff, too. I went on Instagram and asked them what they wanted to hear. Across the board I got ‘Vox’ and ‘The Path of Thorns (Terms)’ (off of) the first and second records, so we’re working those up. I haven’t played those songs in maybe 20 years. My setlists are going to be a real mix of old and very new. There is not a lot of (the 2014 album) ‘Shine On.’ There is not a lot of (2010’s) ‘Laws of Illusion.’ It’s sort of the really old stuff and the really new stuff.”

McLachlan, 58, also felt some initial trepidation over tackling what she thought might end up being her last album. She said the issue wasn’t that she thought she might be too old to release new albums, but “more about whether people even make records anymore.”

But the genuine chemistry she found with the Berg/ MacLellan production team reignited her creative passions.

“Just the idea of starting felt challenging because it had been so long,” McLachlan said. “I’m fully aware of

back for a while. But it was just so joyful to be in the studio again and to be working with incredible musicians and incredible minds. Every day brought new experiences, new sounds and new ideas. It was so creative and so collaborative. I loved how every day I’d come home exhausted after 12 hours and be so excited about getting into the studio the next day.”

McLachlan also gushed about Berg’s “ADD personality” that not only found him turning the Canadian singer/songwriter onto the music of cult folky Judee Sill (McLachlan covered Sill’s “The Kiss” on “Better Broken”) but bringing a number of guest musicians into the project, including MUNA’s Katie and Wendy Melvoin (the latter famously a former member of Prince and the Revolution). Along with Berg’s connection with the guitarist, the relationship between McLachlan and Wendy Melvoin was earlier cemented when the latter thanked the former for her song, “Angel,” which was about Melvoin’s late brother, Jonathan.

As for the future, McLachlan admits the new way of working in one-week studio spurts with Berg could very well be the template going forward, particularly given how much she’s gotten out of it on an emotional and creative level.

“When we get together and record, it’s super intense for a week,” McLachlan explained. “What’s good about that is you get to step away from it and have some space, distance and perspective. Then you come back to some things and instantly realize something needs more work. Or this other thing we cast off early on is actually really great and we need to focus on that. I love working that way and I think we would do that again. It works really well for both of our ADD brains.”

Sarah McLachlan Fri, Aug 7 7pm Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend bendconcerts.com

Thank you Central Oregon for sharing your dogs with us for 27 years!

With gratitude, love, and lots and lots of wagging tails and smiling hearts! Dancin Woofs - compassionately caring for, and training with, the dogs and humans of Central Oregon since 1999

You win our hearts and votes for being “The Best Dog People” –voted by Dancin’ Woofs, 2025

S SOUND Only Brothers Can Sing These Types of Bluesy Americana Harmonies

The Deltaz are excited to be back in Bend

By Abby Francis

The Deltaz, a brother duo hailing originally from Southern California, bring a unique sound to bluesy Americana. They have been performing together since they were teenagers. Often donning their overalls and Vaquero style flat-brimmed hats, they have a perfect uniform for their one-of-a-kind genre.

The Deltaz will be at the Midtown Ballroom on July 28.

Growing up. Getting started

From the Siegel brothers’ piano-playing great aunt during the time of silent films, to their family member in Norway who is a classical concert violinist, music runs deep in the Siegel family through multiple generations. The brothers, John (vocals, drumonica —a style coined by The Deltaz when a musician is simultaneously playing a drum kit and a harmonica) and Ted (vocals, guitar) grew up surrounded by music throughout their childhood.

“Our dad and our uncle ran a nightclub when we were growing up,” said Ted, “so definitely lots and lots of music in the family always”

Naturally, their musical progression started young. “I started playing drums in the third grade…and then Ted got into guitar a year after or so” said John, who is the younger brother by three years. “We live[d] in the same house; we started playing music and then it kind of just evolved into being a band”

The Deltaz name was created soon thereafter. As young teenagers, the brothers went to the Mississippi Delta for a blues festival, and it became a defining point in their career.

“It was our first visit to the south, it was our first visit to this place where all the music we loved was from,” said Ted.

The Deltaz name originated from the region.

When asked about the Z in the name, Ted said he had learned from a science class that the delta symbol (Z) meant change. The Deltaz has been their band name ever since.

The siblings say that growing up they listened to Jimi Hendrix, Cream and the Beatles, but then were encouraged to listen to older musicians who inspired the bands they love. This quickly led down a blues rabbit hole.

“We are always looking for the roots of the music,” said John. “Getting at who, what, where this music is coming from... what’s the original version,” referring to the music of their childhood. These artists often find their way into the brothers’ inspiration for their own music.

The brotherly bond

Sibling bands seem to have an important place in the music industry.

The Jackson 5, The Bee Gees, and The Allman Brothers all stemmed from a certain family chemistry.

“I think there’s a level of connection and comfort that you can have with your sibling that would be really hard to duplicate with anybody else,” said Ted. “The way you sing together, the way you can really push on each other, and you know that at the end of the day, it’s not a stranger.”

Ted explained the duo’s relationship in typical sibling fashion.

“Sometimes we’re competitive with each other, sometimes we’re really supportive with each other,” he said. “It’s something I think that you can really lean on and give you strength when things are tough.”

From California to Nashville

After losing their home and studio in the Woolsey Wildfire which swept through Southern California in 2018, The Deltaz faced the challenge of rebuilding both their lives and their music. The experience brought the brothers closer together and ultimately led them to Nashville, where the city’s vibrant Southern music scene helped inspire a new direction for their sound.

“To lose everything…to restart everything…gives [life] a new perspective,” said John. “It really was a new start for us on so many levels.”

They said they coped with the loss of their childhood home by writing about it.

“I think anytime there’s something big that happens in our lives, we try to write about it as a part of dealing with it,” said Ted.

Their album, “Turn It Back,” released in 2022, which they made in their mobile studio in the midst of Covid, was partially shaped by the aftermath of the loss.

Their newest releases

“Give It All to You” marks The Deltaz’s first studio album since their move to Nashville in 2021. The brothers worked with producer Mark Neil who is known for his work with the Black Keys. This album was one of their most difficult and personal to make.

Ted and John went to southern Georgia to spend a month with the producer.

“[We] really [got] deeper into making a record than we ever had and recording[ing] in a different way than we had ever recorded,” Ted explained. “Push[ing] ourselves in ways that we had never pushed ourselves before.”

“We came out of the other end as better players and changed,” John said.

On May 1, The Deltaz released a single with Nashville-based Americana singer Madison Hughes.

The Deltaz said they met Hughes during an open mic night at Fox and Locke in Leiper’s Fork —a small town about 40 minutes south of Nashville that boasts current or past homes of superstar residents like Justin Timberlake and Carrie Underwood. Ted describes the place as always packed on a Thursday night. Fox and Locke is known for being an entryway into the Nashville music scene.

“We became friends and then our careers existed and coincided with each other in Nashville and we just noticed the things that she was doing…she was making great records,” said Ted. “I really love her voice…we had a song from out last record, “Close to Me.”…every time I’d sing it, I was just, like, I feel like a woman would sing this song better than me.”

“We want to do more of that, we want to do more singles and records where we are collaborating with other artists,” said Ted. “Maybe we’ll find somebody in Oregon,” he added.

Looking toward an exciting future

The Deltaz are excited to be back in the studio in October to cut a new blues album with producer Andrija Tokic, who is credited for recording artists such as the Alabama Shakes.

New versions of old blues songs have always been a fan favorite at their live shows, but they have yet to record most of them.

“We’re going further into more of our blues roots…[with] some of the…material that we have been cultivating over the years in our live shows,” said John.

After their U.S. tour this summer, the duo will perform in Australia.

“It’s going to be a really exciting year. This year has been great already.”

The Deltaz Tue, July 28 7pm Midtown Ballroom 51 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend midtownballroom.com/ $24.28

blues, country and rock

S SOUND Tedeschi Trucks Band: The Future Soul Tour A 12-piece band blending soul,

By Dave Gil de Rubio

There is a saying that goes, “Many hands make for light work.” It’s certainly the case with the Tedeschi Trucks Band, a 12-piece that’s been driven by the marital tandem of Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks dating back to the band’s Grammy Award-winning 2011 debut “Revelator.” Since then, the rock and soul-fueled outfit has not only pumped out five more tasty albums (including a 2022 four-album opus “I Am The Moon” that counts as one release) that have earned them a rabid and loyal fanbase, but they’ve further cemented this relationship via a storied reputation as one of rock’s best live acts.

Never a band to rest on its laurels, TTB is back with its sixth studio album, “Future Soul,” for which they tapped Mike Elizondo (Eminem; Carrie Underwood; Sheryl Crow) to co-produce this project with Trucks. The latter brought Elizondo into the fold after crossing paths with him a number of years ago while Trucks was working with Eric Clapton.

Having seen the producer play in a band with Doyle Bramhall II and Abe Laboriel Jr., the Florida-born Trucks was keen to get into the studio with Elizondo. Tedeschi quickly agreed with this choice and was more than happy with the co-producer’s contributions to this latest batch of songs.

“Mike is just such an incredible musician and we’d heard such great things about him,” she explained in a mid-May interview. “He came up in the mix and we thought we needed to [work with him]. He’s just so sweet, easy to get along with and an incredible musician. He’s super musical and has really great ideas on arrangements, sounds and adding cool keyboards and different weird things — and how to get cool tones from all different kinds of amps. It was a lot of fun.”

For Tedeschi, who is quick to admit to not being enamored with the recording process, this particular experience was rich and rewarding. It took place at the TTB spread in Jacksonville, Florida, where beyond Elizondo’s contributions, a large part of Tedeschi’s enjoyment came from the collaborative nature that not only birthed the new record, but a currently unnamed EP set to drop later in the year.

“I really enjoyed making this record with Mike Elizondo,” Tedeschi said. “I liked how he was so punctual. Each day he had a plan where we’d go in, work on a couple of tunes and see where they went. He was really efficient and really great at leading all of us and giving us direction. I usually don’t like making records because I’m so neurotic in the studio. I’m so used to performing that it’s such a different thing. But it was a really fun record.”

She added, “I really enjoyed all the songwriters and all their contributions to this record. Some of these songs came about naturally and organically, just sitting around and getting some ideas. Derek would have an idea and he’d play it, I’d sing something and it would go one place. Somebody like Gabe [Dixon] comes in and helps finish the lyrics, because he’s such an incredible lyricist. I think we made a really nice record. It’s fun to listen to and to play live. I’m just really excited about the songwriting on this record for sure and the playability of it.”

Part of “Future Soul’s” charm comes from the odd creative quirks that sparked collaboration within the band’s ranks. A longtime Bob Dylan fan who can trace that icon’s influence back to a childhood obsession with 1964’s “The Times They Are a Changin” (“I’d say that [album] was absolutely instrumental in making me who I’ve become in a lot of ways,” Tedeschi said), Tedeschi’s love for the artists playfully nicknamed by some as “Blind Boy Grunt” popped up on this new record via the song, “Who Am I.”

“My idea behind the lyrics at first was that I’d had a dream the night before about Bob Dylan,” Tedeschi explained. “It was like I was on a date with Bob Dylan in the ‘60s. I was like, ‘You had me at hello/poetry and the wine flow/And in the dream you were mine.’ Then Gabe said it must be about me and Derek, so then it became more of a love song in that way.”

With the creative rocket fuel of new material to bring to the world, TTB is loaded for bear on this tour. Upping the ante are a number of dates with a host of famous friends — including The Black Crowes, Alabama Shakes, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Sheryl

Crow, JJ Grey & Mofro, Lukas Nelson and Molly Tuttle — also on the bills. Given how TTB generally spend on the road for upwards of 200 days a year, Tedeschi embraces the idea of being in full live music mode and promises wildly varying set lists, particularly given the wealth of music from which the band can now draw.

“[Fans] can expect to hear some stuff from the new record, which we really enjoy playing,” she said. “We’ve been mixing it up so the set lists are very different every day. There’ll be a mix of this new record mixed in with past hits like ‘Midnight in Harlem.’ Some nights you’ll get that and you’ll get ‘Bound For Glory’ and some of the old classics. But you’re going to get a lot of the new stuff and you’ll get maybe some deep cuts from some other albums that maybe you haven’t heard in a while, along with some new fun covers.”

Regardless of how many moving parts may make up the 12-member ensemble, both inside and around the band the common ground of loving music and working toward the same creative goals is at the crux of the band’s longevity, according to Tedeschi.

“We’ve managed to make it work for so long because we’re a well-oiled ship and plus, my husband is an excellent band leader,” she said. “We just have a lot of great musicians and people seem to really like it. I think it’s just a lot of hard work, a lot of great people with a lot of great minds coming together, plus we’ve got a lot in common. I think it’s one of those things that works. We keep on creating, so we’re never really stale. So that keeps it going. And also, we never take time off so we don’t have time to think about not being together. We just work every year — like 200 days a year.”

Tedeschi Trucks Band Sat, Aug 8 6pm Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend bendconcerts.com/ $78.25+

S

SOUND O.A.R. — Three Decades Tour

Making magic on stage

By L. Kent Wolgamott

Chris Culos was looking at a list of 40-something songs that O.A.R. was getting ready to play as the hard-touring Maryland rock band was set to start yet another run of shows. That list included hits like “Love and Memories,” “Lay Down” and “Shattered (Turn The Car Around),” some of the band’s earliest songs like “That Was A Crazy Game of Poker,” nearly 30 years old, some rarities and a few covers.

But regardless of the setlists the band puts together for each show, there’s a single goal when O.A.R. hits the stage.

“Whether we’re playing a song we’ve played 10,000 times, or one we haven’t pulled out in six years, it’s coming from this place of ‘let’s really make some magic here’ and know that we’re all on this train together and who knows where parts of it are going,” Culos said in an interview.

Making magic, however, isn’t guaranteed, and often takes some time, which Culos said in shorter shows, might happen a song or two before the set ends.

“The fun and interesting thing about it is that there’s no way to really make it happen,” he said. “It’s almost like letting it happen naturally. If you try to find it, if you’re thinking about it too much, it can kind of escape you.”

But when it happens, it creates some special communication among the seven guys on stage.

“It could just be a glance from the bass player or an eyebrow raise from the saxophone player or a hand cue from the singer,” said the drummer, who has to anchor the shifting sound. “It’s like that one little thing, we know exactly what they mean and it speaks volumes.

“So maybe we pick it up. Maybe we drop it down. Maybe we change directions. Maybe it’s a solo,” Culos said. “Maybe it’s a total audible. Our singer will read a sign that a seven-year-old kid wrote, saying, ‘Hey, this is my first concert, please play this song.’ So you just have to be on your toes at all times. That’s what I love about it.”

There’s another element in making the magic that O.A.R. can’t control and it’s not on stage.

“There’s no way of knowing how the crowd is going to have an energy,” Culos said. “Whether it’s a large crowd or a small crowd, an indoor venue or an outdoor venue, there are so many variables that make that intangible thing between us and the crowd happen. And you just have to let that connection happen. You can’t really force it.”

This summer’s tour is made up mostly of headlining dates, which Culos said is good for both band and fans.

“Now we can really dive back into our deep catalog,” he said. “What I think our long-term fans like the most about us is we’re going to play the classics that you know and love. And even if we do, we’re going to put a spin on them, so each night there’s a unique version….and you’re going to get some rare songs.”

Those rarities don’t just come from the band members as they work up songs for a tour and write up a nightly setlist. There’s fan input as well.

“We listen to the online chatter,” Culos said. “We have a really cool community of people. So we know the songs that they haven’t heard in a long time. We know that someone’s coming to their 100th show and they’re requesting a song we haven’t played in six years. And we’ll try to play it.”

Those songs could have been played at Madison Square Garden, which the band has sold out, Red Rocks Amphitheater, which O.A.R. has packed a dozen times, or even the New Year’s Eve celebration in New York’s Times Square, where the band has also performed.

Those shows are evidence of the growing success for this somewhat under-the-radar band, since O.A.R. began in 1996 and started making records the next year.

It’s also evidence how the band built one of rock’s most dedicated fan bases from their live shows as much as their albums. That’s also why O.A.R. is best known as a live act and why the band has released a half-dozen live albums to go with what will be 11 studio albums when the new release, “Three Tinted Windows,” arrives in September.

“People were taping our shows in the early days of the internet, and there was a community of tape traders that spread our music around,” Culos said.

“In the early days of filesharing, when people were spreading their music around college campuses, we sort of went viral on Napster before there was even such a thing,” he said. “So from early on, we had to create a show that people would want to see multiple times. That’s why we don’t play the same set list every night.”

O.A.R. Sat, Aug 15 6pm Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend bendconcerts.com/events $42+

CALENDAR

1 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Karafun catalog gives one thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and brand-new wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! People should definitely check this out for themselves. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Kurt Silva and Cynthia West Kurt Silva, from bands Dry Canyon Stampede and Grits N Gravy, teams up with powerhouse singer, Cynthia West from the band Ruckus to form a dynamic musical duo. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Open mic comedy on Bend’s NE side. Eat some BBQ, drink some drinks and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Long Gone Wilder Trio Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden. 6-8pm. Free.

Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.

La Pine Frontier Days La Pine Frontier Days July 1-4 July Fourth celebrations. 50-year anniversary. 1st-4th of July facebook.com/LaPineFrontierDays 10am-10pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All musicians welcome to the downtown living room! Sign-ups start at 6pm. Set up and ready to go by 6:30pm. You bring instrument, your band and/or your friends. Goes until last call or last musician, whichever happens first. 21 and over. 6:30pm. Free.

Midtown Yacht Club Bingo For Bunnies! An exciting series of bingo nights at Midtown Yacht Club in Bend, hosted by Ember’s Bunny Rescue. Come play bingo, grab food and drinks and support the rabbits. All proceeds go directly to support the rabbits in the rescue’s care. 6-8pm.

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Open Mic Night hosted by Derek Michael Marc!!! Sign up at 5:30pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:308:30pm. Free.

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun UKB Trivia in Bend is an ongoing event on Wednesdays. People can team up with friends for some casual fun, there’s no fee to play. Authentic food favorites, biers and more. Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse One Off Wednesdays Dirty Jazz with Wolfhouse Records, Shakespeare at the Lake and more! This week, Wolfhouse Jazz. 6-8pm

2 Thursday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina Karafun catalog gives one thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and brand-new wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.

Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music at Bevel Catch talented local artists on the patio, grab a bite from the four on-site food carts and enjoy award-winning craft beer, wine, cider and more. Bring friends, relax and make it a weekly tradition. 6-8pm. Free.

Bunk+Brew Karaoke Thursdays All voices are welcome. Food carts available all evening! 7-10pm. Free.

The Cellar Live Irish Trad Music with The Ballybogs! Live music featuring Bend’s Irish Trad band, The Ballybogs! Every Thursday at The Cellar. Seats fill up, so get there early! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Talamh Dubh A trio with collective ties to Ireland and a love for Irish music. Their name, “Dark Earth” in Gaelic, pays homage to the volcanic ground of the Cascade range upon which the group formed. Featured in their repertoire are jigs, reels, hornpipes, marches, waltzes and songs. 6:30-8pm. Free.

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! →

Munch & Music Free concerts in Drake Park presented by The Source and Hayden Homes! Music starts on the Stilson Builders stage each Thursday at 5:30pm to 9pm. 2026 series dates: July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, July 30 and August 6 5-9pm. Free.

Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden Free trivia Free trivia every Thursday night at Eurosports. Signup is at 5:30pm. Trivia starts at 5:45pm. 5:45-6:30pm. Free.

General Duffy’s Waterhole Colt Ford A country singer with a new album, “Must Be The Country.” Enjoy food from food trucks while jamming out. 8:30pm. $44-$125.

Hosmer Bar Bingo Night Your week just found its highlight—bingo! Drinks, good company and a little friendly competition. 7-9pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Karaoke at Initiative! Flip the switch—free, all-ages karaoke where kids, regulars and first-timers get their moment. Belt it out or soak in the chaos—this is a weekly excuse to show up and let loose. Bubba, aka DJ Bubba Yum, runs the show, spinning tracks, hyping the crowd and nudging everyone toward the mic. 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

La Pine Frontier Days La Pine Frontier Days July 1-4 July Fourth celebrations. 50 year anniversary. 1st-4th of July facebook.com/LaPineFrontierDays 10am-10pm. Free.

The Lot Jenna Hansen A versatile singer with experience performing both solo and with a band. She has a smooth, clean, voice with beautiful vibrato and break that is an aural delight. Critics have compared her to Adele! 6-8pm. Free.

Mountain Burger Reno & Cindy Holler Reno Thursday Night Live! Great music, food & company! 6-8pm. Free.

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

River’s Place Blackstrap Bluegrass Kicking off the long weekend with some hard driving bluegrass and catchy originals that give a nod to the roots of Americana music, Cosmic twang and Jamgrass. 6-8pm. Free.

Stoller Wine Bar Bend Haute Melange Haute Melange performs the first Thursday of each month, celebrating the music of Django Reinhardt, Gypsy Jazz and beyond. Jon Harnum (trumpet and guitar), Bob Baker (violin), Scott Johnson (guitar) and Andrew Lion (bass). A swinging blend of classic jazz manouche. 6-8pm. Free.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Big Lawn Series A perfect stop for touring bands and musicians, showcasing some incredible artists from near and far. Catch a variety of tunes on the Big Lawn every Monday and Thursday. Free for all and for all ages. 6-8pm. Free.

The Winery at Manzanita- Bend Vino & Vibes Enjoy an evening of wine and local community grooves every Thursday. Local singers and songwriters welcome. 5-7pm. Free.

Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery Comedy Mics Hear fresh jokes from established comedians, cheer on first timers and drink tasty brews. For comics, this is a practice space, and also an opportunity to get booked for paid time in future shows. 6:30-8:45pm. Free.

3 Friday

The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with assorted DJs. Live local sounds from different artists every Friday and Saturday. 10pm-2am. Weekend cover charge.

Bend Cider Co. The Taelours Come on out and listen to the Taelours, a father/son duo, perform blues, jazz, R&B, and old-time country on the backyard garden stage. Enjoy award-winning ciders, beer, wine, & n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. 6-8pm. Free.

Boneyard Pub Bigfoot County Kickoff 4th of July party with Bigfoot County. Hear the band rip through blues, soul and rock ‘n roll classics. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commons Cafe & Taproom First Friday Block Party! They crank up the tunes every first Friday to celebrate Art Walk throughout downtown. Food, drink and community abound on these nights. VanHenion Brewing helps this event support the Latino Community Association. First Friday of every month, 5:30-8:30pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Soul’d Out Soul’d Out was created by Dennis Morris (guitar/ vocals), Rutledge Waterhouse (bass /vocals), Steve Hartwell (keyboards/vocals), Bruce Klouda (drums/vocals) several years ago to bring their brand of what they refer to as “rhythm & soul” music. 8-10pm. Free.

Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill Chasin’ Bandits The Band plays a variety of memorable country and rock favorites. Talented musicians keep the crowd entertained and engaged. Come out and dance the night away or just enjoy the music. The DI in Metolius is a friendly local establishment with great food and drinks, Friday night is prime rib night! First Friday of every month, 7-10pm. Free.

Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden Bob Baker and Mark Barringer Live Music every Friday night from 5pm-7pm at Eurosports in Sisters. This week is Bob Baker and Mark Barringer. Please feel free to bring your own chairs as sometimes they run out. 5-7pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Singer Songwriter Series: Doc Cosden, Richard Lodwig and Steve Vujnovich Another Singer Songwriter Series for the month of July, featuring an intimate night of original music and storytelling from Doc Cosden, Richard Lodwig and Steve Vujnovich. 6-8pm. $10.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Karaoke at Hardtails Come out for a night of Karaoke with your host DJ GABY! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday or Saturday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

La Pine Frontier Days La Pine Frontier Days July 1-4 July Fourth celebrations. 50 year anniversary. 1st-4th of July facebook.com/LaPineFrontierDays 10am-10pm. Free.

Oregon Spirit Distillers What’s So Funny About Happiness - A Comedy Showcase Starring Anthony Poponi & Friends Bringing together a rotating lineup of comedians, each offering their own funny, honest, and sometimes ridiculous stories about life. It’s a night built on shared experiences, awkward moments, and the humor in trying to be a functional adult. 7-8pm. $20.80.

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 Liquids Time capsule dance party Retro feels and modern dance tunes B2B from DJ Disco Dino, DJ Matty Mooch, and featuring members from Bend Burlesque. A chance to travel through time and move with fellow time disrupters! 9pm-1am. $10.

VFW Post 1643 Celebrating America’s 250th

4 Saturday

The Astro Lounge Live local sounds with assorted DJs. Live local sounds from different artists every Friday and Saturday. 10pm-2am. Weekend cover charge.

Bridge 99 Brewery Family-Friendly Karaoke Night Looking for family fun? You’ll find it every Saturday night at Bridge 99 Brewery. Family-friendly karaoke is hosted by DJ Jackie J and A Fine Note Karaoke Too. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub JuJu Eyeball at 4th of July Party Celebrate 4th of July with Juju Eyeball and Beatles music as part of The Commonwealth Pub’s holiday festivities. And hey, you can still catch the fireworks! 7-9pm. Free.

The Domino Room Bong Wizard, Sandkrawler, Vacancy Floor, & James G: The Enigma

This stoner metal/sludge trio crafts hypnotic music with their powerful blend of heavy riffs, crushing rhythms and trippy soundscapes. An experience that marries humor and playfulness with the heavier themes of cannabis culture.

8-11:30pm. $18.49.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Karaoke at Hardtails Come out for a night of Karaoke with your host DJ GABY! What’s your go-to karaoke tune? Come to Hardtails for a fun Friday or Saturday night and sing your heart out! 8pm-Midnight. Free.

La Pine Frontier Days La Pine Frontier Days July 1-4 July Fourth celebrations. 50 year anniversary. 1st-4th of July facebook.com/LaPineFrontierDays 10am-10pm. Free.

Velvet Lounge 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.

Ribs, jambalaya, salads, sides and more! Live music featuring The Cutmen 2pm. $2 for 2 ribs, $8 for sides.

Worthy Garden Club Worthy Brewing 4th of July Event Celebrate the 4th at Worthy Brewing for an all day live music event. The Dad Bods Cover Band hit the stage from 5 to 7 PM, bringing high-energy favorites and party songs. For the full band lineup, visit Worthy’s event page on their website. 5-7pm. Free.

5 Sunday

Bend Cider Co. Tommy Hilton & Friends

Listen to Tommy Hilton and Friends perform eclectic Americana and Carter Family songs on the backyard garden stage. Enjoy award-winning ciders, beer, wine and n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. Free! 5-7pm. Free.

Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden Sunday Sessions: Souljers

Rising Bend’s local Reggae/Dub group, Souljers Rising, delivers a unique blend of infectious grooves and conscious lyrics. 4-6pm. Free.

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Okay Karaoke

Sing your favorite songs with friends, enjoy professional sound and lighting and let the spotlight shine on you. Hosted by the dynamic Tammy Larsen, it’s the perfect night out for music lovers and party people alike. Noon-11pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free Live Music every Sunday 4-6 (this week, enjoy Bigfoot County) and Tuesday 6-8. Full kitchen, full bar, food trucks, playground, kids menu, GOOD VIBES! 4-6pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Trivia Sunday with UKB Trivia Not too early, not too late! Team up to win prizes, or for the fun of it. No fee to play! This is no ordinary trivia quiz, it’s Useless Knowledge Bowl! Enjoy fantastic food and brews. Bring good vibes and a pen if possible. 4-6pm. Free.

River’s Place Sunday Funday Trivia! Grab your team and join the fun! Free to play & prizes to win! Check out the Mimosa menu Noon-2pm. Free.

River’s Place Eric Leadbetter & Pete Kartsounes Two local legends coming together for an evening of musical virtuosity. This is going to be amazing, you can’t miss this one! 6-8pm. Free.

Tower Theatre Zarna Garg Visits Bend! With her unique blend of humor, wit and fearless social commentary, Zarna Garg has emerged as a comedic trailblazer. An Indian immigrant mom based in New York City, Zarna showcases her sharp and relatable humor in her first comedy special, One in a Billion, Noon. $50-100.

6 Monday

Bevel Craft Brewing Bingo with Bren Supporting The Giving Plate Half the proceeds go to cash prizes, while the other half helps fight hunger by providing food to individuals and families in need. $2 per card or 6 cards for $10. This is a family-friendly event. 6-8pm. $2.

M&J Tavern Vinyl Night Monday Night just got better!!! 9pm to Midnight. SupaFly will be your Dj. Bring your own vinyl and sign up to add it to the Playlist or pick from hers. 9pm. 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.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse Big Lawn Series The Suttle Lodge is a perfect stop for touring bands and musicians, showcasing some incredible artists from near and far. Catch a variety of tunes on the Big Lawn every Monday and Thursday. Free for all and for all ages. 6-8pm. Free.

7 Tuesday

The Astro Lounge Tuesdays Trivia and Karaoke The longest-running trivia show in Central Oregon. Matt and Mark bring the buzz. This is a bring-your-own-food event. Follow with karaoke with Christina at 9pm till close. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia The right event for those who want to test their knowledge and try for a chance to win some great prizes! 6-8pm. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! People should definitely check this out for themselves. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Cellar Open Mic Hosted by Mari of the band, Mari & The Dream! An intimate night of sharing music in a welcoming environment and supportive community. 6-8pm. 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 Mikey Bilello & Beverly Anderson Trio Mikey is Bend's local fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, with accolades from contests up to the international level. Beverly is a singer, songwriter, educator and musical theater actress, with one of the best voices on the Bend music scene. Bossa Nova, Jazz, R&B. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco) Tuesdays Quiz fans of Redmond: bring the crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious menu favorites, brews, cocktails, plus Taco Tuesday menu! Players will compete for gift card prizes or play just for fun. Bring good vibes and a pen. 6:30pm. Free.

GoodLife Brewing Live Music in the GoodLife Beer Garden Free Live Music every Sunday 4-6 and Tuesday 6-8. Full kitchen, full bar, food trucks, playground, kids menu, GOOD VIBES! 6-8pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Bingo at Initiative! Randy is hosting Central Oregon’s “semi-pro” bingo legend, for a fun night with real cash prizes. Great food, cold drinks and a good time—all while supporting the Redmond Senior Center! 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Karaoke Sign-ups start at 8pm! 8pm-1:15am. Free.

Mountain Burger Trivia Tuesdays Free to play! Prizes & fun every Tuesday! 7:30-9pm. Free.

River’s Place Bingo! Have fun, win money and help out a local non profit organization. Cards $1 - $5 6-8pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Karaoke Karaoke in the pub of VTP! Every Tuesday, 7pm - late 7pm. Free.

8 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina The Karafun catalog gives one thousands of songs to sing to. Great sound system and brandnew wireless mics. Drink specials during the event. 9pm-1am. Free.

The Capitol Karaoke Drink specials! Air guitars! People should definitely check this out for themselves. 8pm-1am. Free.

The Coyote Free Line Dance Lessons Free beginner-friendly line dance lessons with instructor Alex Reininger. Learn two fun dances in one hour—no experience needed! 7-8pm. Free.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery Comedy Open Mic Night Eat some BBQ, drink some drinks and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Conner Bennett Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden from 6-8pm. Free.

CALENDAR

Dogwood At The Pine Shed Transmission: ‘80s Dark Wave Social Club Immerse yourself in the sounds of the ’80s underground. DJ Mark Brody spins Joy Division, Bauhaus, The Cure, Clan of Xymox and more at Dogwood at The Pine Shed. A moody night of goth, post-punk and darkwave. Second Wednesday of every month, 7-10pm. Free. Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt. No cover — A $10 suggested donation will be collected at the event, with proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm. No cover.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater AJR A New York City pop trio composed of brothers Adam, Jack and Ryan Met. Ahead of the group’s 2015 debut album Living Room, AJR notched their first Billboard Hot 100 single with 2013’s “I’m Ready.” The band’s 2017 follow-up The Click broke onto the Billboard 200 behind the quadruple-platinum lead single “Weak” and Rivers Cuomo collaboration “Sober Up.” 6:30pm. $80.75. Hosmer Bar Trivia Night Brainy banter and cold drinks! Whether one is a seasoned quiz champ or just in it for the laughs, gather the crew and test everyone’s knowledge! 7-9pm. Free.

M&J Tavern Musicians Open Mic All musicians welcome to the downtown living room! Sign-ups start at 6pm. Set up and ready to go by 6:30pm. You bring instrument, your band and/or your friends. Goes until last call or last musician, which ever happens first. 21 and over. 6:30pm. Free.

Northside Bar & Grill Mellow Wednesday Open Mic Night Come down for our Open Mic Night hosted by Derek Michael Marc!!! Sign up at 5:30pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Hosted by the always entertaining Rachel Fishman, who keeps the crowd singing and laughing all night! It’s the perfect bonus to a night out enjoying great food, drinks and good company at Portello! 6:308:30pm. Free.

Prost! - Bend Wednesday Trivia Fun at Prost! Bend 7pm UKB Trivia in Bend is an ongoing event on Wednesdays. Useless Knowledge Bowl is a live trivia & more, no AI here. People can team up with friends for some casual fun, there’s no fee to play. Authentic food favorites, biers and more. Feed the brain and the belly! 7-9pm. Free.

SCP Redmond Hotel Trivia Night Whether you’re coming with your friends and family or flying solo, you’ll experience an evening of friendly competition, laughter and community. Open to both community members and hotel guests. Second Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse One Off Wednesdays On Special Wednesdays we will have special events! Dirty Jazz with Wolfhouse Records, Shakespeare at the Lake and more! 6-8pm. Free.

MUSIC

Alpaca Piano Picnic Pianist and composer Paula Dreyer offers a magical outdoor concert experience surrounded by friendly, free-roaming alpacas. Relax into the sounds of live piano music in a serene farm setting. July 5, 2-3:30pm. Flying Dutchman Alpacas. Contact: 831-809-1147. info@pauladreyer.com. $40. Bluegrass & Blues Every Tuesday through the end of July there will be live bluegrass in the beer garden. Enjoy craft beer on tap, flavored malt beverages and non-alcoholic beers and good music. Tuesdays, 5-7pm. Through July 28. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-385–8606. Free.

Coyote Rider Kat Hilst, Kim Kelley and Tim Coffey perform original folk-Americana songs crafted for timeless storytelling with roots-driven sound and powerful harmonies. Sat, July 4, 11am-1pm. CHOW, 1110 NW Newport Ave., Bend. Free.

CALENDAR EVENTS

Pete Kartsounes Performance Pete Kartsounes has been bringing people together with his award-winning songs, guitar wizardry, and smoky voice. His eclectic and heartfelt music is medicine for all. July 7, 2-3pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541241-3395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary.org. Free. Sound 4th Concert Cascade Horizon Community Band and a Festival Choir celebrate July 4th with a Special Musical Concert. Over 100 musicians and vocalsts under the direction of Sue Stieger and Christian Clark will perform Patriotic and American Folk Pieces plus a Songalong to commerate the country’s 250 anniversary. Free Admission July 4, 3-4:30pm. Caldera High School Auditorium, 60925 SE 15th St, Bend. Contact: 5414808221. cschunk83@gmail.com. Free.

DANCE

Adult Ballet Class 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: 541-382-4055. dance@abcbend. com. Price varies.

Adult Jazz Dance Community Class

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.

Argentine Tango Classes & Practice

Learn and dance Argentine Tango. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Tango in Bend welcomes you to connect through this beautiful dance form. Beginner and Intermediate classes followed by practice. No partner needed. Check tangoinbend.com for the week’s schedule. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 818207-1363. info@tangoinbend.com. $10 class & practice, $5 practice only.

Boots & Brews at Worthy Brewing Country line dance lessons 6-7pm. Two-step dance lessons 7-8pm. Open dancing 8-9pm. Food & drink specials. Family-friendly patio atmosphere. Tuesdays, 7-8pm. Through Sept. 30. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: howdy@swingnline.com. Free.

Cuban Dance Classes & Socials!! Kick summer off right by learning to dance! Rueda de Casino is an energetic, community-oriented dance from Cuba, where partners dance intermingled and synchronously with other couples. It’s a blast! Price is for 4-week progressive series. Class re-starts every month. Dance socials after most classes. Mondays, 6-7:15pm, Through July 27. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 541-610-8865. bendrueda@ gmail.com. $40.

Lindy Hop Social Dance and Lessons

Take back your night life! 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. Intro to Lindy Hop, (no experience needed) 6pm, Beyond Basics, (some experience needed) 6:30, Social Dance at 7:15 Sundays, 6-8:30pm. The Space, 63830 Clausen Rd, Bend. Contact: N/A. lindyhopcentral@gmail.com. $7-$12.

Partner & Line Dance Lessons at The Coyote Join Wednesdays at The Coyote in downtown Bend! Partner dance lessons 6–7 pm with Seth and McKenna, line dance lessons 7–8 pm with Alex. No partner or experience needed— come solo and connect. Enjoy great energy, a spacious dance floor, food, drinks, mocktails, pool tables, TVs and a welcoming atmosphere. Wednesdays, 6-8pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: mindfulmotionmentor@ gmail.com. Free.

Tango in Bend Learn and dance Argentine Tango. Whether a beginner or an experienced dancer, the community welcomes all. First class is free! 6:30 - Intermediate Class. 7:15 - Beginners Class. 8:30 - Practice for all. Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 818-207-1363. info@tangoinbend.com. $10 class & practice, $5 practice only.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Cute Patriotic Gnome Paint Party

Cutest Patriotic Gnome Paint Party @ SCP Hotel in Redmond. This is a pre-paid event. Please visit imaginaryrebelpaintparties.com/ to book your seat! There will be a raffle and prizes to win! July 1, 6-8pm. Provisions Market at SCP Redmond, 521 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 949-6773510. imaginaryrebelartstudio@gmail.com. $35.

All Levels Wheel Throwing Beginner and intermediate wheel-throwing techniques. Each class is catered to students’ needs. Students start with clay prep, and work through to glazing a finished piece. Total of 5 classes. Sundays, 10am-1pm. Through July 26. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: jess@campclay.studio. $350.

American Institute of Architects Oregon Chapter People’s Choice Awards

The American Institute of Architects Oregon Chapter is hosting a design competition open to the public! Posters of the submitted projects will be on display in the second floor hallway of 1000 Wall. View the projects and vote! Fri, June 5, 5-8pm and Mondays-Fridays, 8am-8pm. Through July 10. 1000 Wall Second Floor, 1000 NW Wall Street, Bend. Free.

The Art of the Handmade Book Explore the art of bookmaking in this two-evening adult workshop! Learn techniques—accordion folds, flag books, pamphlet stitching—and create 1–2 original artist’s books. All materials provided, no experience needed. June 30-July 1, 5:15-7:45pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $150.

Art Play Toddlers and preschoolers dive into process-based art through sensory stations, open-ended exploration and hands-on creative play. Ages 2-5 Thursdays-Saturdays, 10-11am. Two Suns Art Studio + MakerSpace, 70 SW Century Drive, Bend. Contact: 541-892-6471. taylor@ twosunsartstudio.com. $25.

Beginning to Intermediate

Hand-Building Skills Create unique functional stoneware serving pieces by completing 3 fun projects that will cover a wide range of transferable skills and create beautiful mugs, tumblers and bowls. Tuesdays, 2-5pm. Through July 21. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: jess@campclay.studio. $350.

Children's Summer Camp In this class, participants work on a different project each day of camp including plates with surface decoration, flower vases, jewelry dishes, cups + mugs, and sculptural animals. This summer camp is perfect for kids with a range of experience, including children who have never touched clay. July 6-10, 9-11am and Aug. 3-7, 9-11am. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: Jess@campclay.studio. $300.

Crochet Café Fancy Nancy will be the host at Fancywork Yarn Shop. This 2-hour hook session is designed specifically to foster community among the crochet crew. All skill levels are welcome in this weekly drop-in event. Thursdays, 1-3pm. Fancywork Yarn Shop, 200 NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-323-8686. hello@fancywork.com. Free.

Exhibition Opening: The Spaciousness of Change The opening reception of The Spaciousness of Change, featuring work by Kathleen Caprario, Sarah Grew, Sandra Honda and Meiling Lee. Through photography, sculpture, sound and mixed media installations, the exhibition explores how climate change is transforming Central Oregon’s landscapes and communities. July 3, 5pm. Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, 550 NW Franklin Ave, Bend. $15. First Friday Art Walk Experience Layor Gallery’s special First Friday exhibition featuring the work of Pamela Claflin, Stefan Savides, Tyler Saunders, Zach Filkins and Douglas Robertson. Meet the artists and explore a collection of contemporary and representational works ranging from bronze sculpture and wildlife art to landscape and abstract painting. July 3, 5-8pm. Layor Art, 1000 NW Wall St. #110, Bend. Contact: 541-322-0421. laceyjade@me.com. Free.

Free Teen Open Art Hours Teens ages 1318 are welcome to join every Tuesday & Thursday between 3pm-7pm for Free Open Art Hours where they will have access to art supplies, musical instruments, a sewing station and plenty of space for creative projects with the support of creative mentors. Registration required. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 3-7pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 9787714635. claire@theopenartscenter. org. Free.

Kids Studio! Clay Creations: Fun with Form & Texture Unleash creativity in this four-day kids’ clay camp! Explore form, texture, and 3D design with air-dry clay, then paint and finish sculptures. Perfect for ages 7–12, all materials included. July 6-9, 9:30am-Noon. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-5087438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $200.

Knit Night A cozy evening of creativity and connection hosted by Katie from Wool Town. Whether a seasoned knitter or just a beginner, this welcoming gathering is the perfect place to unwind, learn and create alongside others. Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 6-8pm. Teal Tea & Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St. Ste101, Bend. Contact: info@bendteal.com. Free.

Let’s Get Sewcial! Develop sewing skills and build creative community with Fashion Workshop. Bring a sewing or fashion project or Fashion Workshop can help give ideas! Youth under 13 should be accompanied by an adult. Thu, July 2, 4:30-6:30pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541312-3395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

OAC First Friday Open Studios & Gallery Show Tour artist studios, explore our current community exhibition and connect with local artists and makers. Wander through open studios, see works in progress and enjoy an evening of creativity, conversation and inspiration in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. First Friday of every month, 6-8pm. Through Dec. 4. The Open Arts Center, 175 NE Greenwood Ave., Bend. Contact: 971-241-6225. maija@theopenartscenter. org. Free.

Open Art Nights Bring your art supplies and make art with your new creative community! No registration required, just show up with an open mind and willingness to create and connect. 18+. Questions? Email brian@theopenartscenter. org Tuesdays, 6-9pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. brian@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

Pottery Art and Crafts Sale Art and Crafts by local artists. Pottery, printmaking, painting, woodworking, jewelry and more! Fridays-Sundays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 8. Smiley Design, 443 NW DELAWARE AVE, Bend. Contact: 541382-8406. Babsomatic56@gmail.com. Free.

Resin Suncatchers Create a dazzling, light-catching work of art in this fun and beginner-friendly Resin Suncatcher Class! July 2, 5:307pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6708. info@bendteal.com. $50.

Sew Club Sew Club hosts this fun, focused studio time on the first and third Monday every month! Work on projects with expert guidance from Sabrina of Bend Alterations (45+ years’ experience). First and Third Monday of every month, 5:30-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $40.

Sew Easy: Beyond the Basics – Zippers & Buttons Level up sewing skills in this intermediate workshop! Learn to install zippers, sew buttons and finish garments with professional touches. Students 10+ recommended with some experience. Tuesdays, 5:15-7pm. Through July 28. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail. com. $175.

Tradition Lives: Kreitzer Fine Art Gallery Opening Tradition Lives: A professional for 60 years, Contemporary Realist Painter David Kreitzer exhibits translucent, sparkling water images as well as the figure, koi, fantasy and Midwest heritage. Kreitzer paints healing masterpieces of peace and beauty in the style of the old masters- with sold-out shows at Maxwell Galleries. Thu, July 2, 1-5:30pm and Fridays-Sundays, 1-5:30pm. Through Oct. 31. David Kreitzer Fine Art Gallery and Studio, 20214 Archie Briggs Rd, Bend. Contact: 8052342048. jkreitze@ icloud.com. Free.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Crook County Summer Celebrate the traditions that have shaped summers in Crook County with Crook County Summers, a special exhibit at the Belknap Exhibit Center at the Bowman Museum. Explore the history of the Crooked River Roundup, Horse Races and Fair through photographs, artifacts and stories that showcase these beloved community events. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-5pm and Saturdays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 27. A. R. Bowman Museum, 246 N Main St, Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean. briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free. Free Author Meet & Greet Adventure isn’t always about summits and success stories. Sometimes it’s about the mistakes, close calls and lessons that change us forever. Join explorer and local author Michael Cooper for a FREE slideshow storytelling presentation about his gripping memior of survival and resilience, Miscalculated Risks. July 1, 6-7:30pm. Mountain Supply, 834 NW Colorado Ave, Bend. Contact: 5413880688. mtnsupply@gmail.com. Free.

In-Depth Nighttime Visit Tickets are only available online. The event begins with an educational presentation follow with a guided constellation tour. Wed, July 1, 9-11pm, Thu, July 2, 9-11pm, Sun, July 5, 9-11pm, Tue, July 7, 9-11pm, Wed, July 8, 9-11pm. Nature Center & Observatory, 57245 River Rd., Sunriver, Sunriver. $2-$36.

Nashwood Gallery First Friday Wonderful little gallery in functioning art studio on the corner of NE 2nd St. and Olney! All are welcome. First Friday of every month, 4-8pm. Nashwood Gallery, 1385 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 541788-0314. will.nashwood@gmail.com. Free.

WORDS

“Word-for-Word” Writer’s Workshop

Word-for-Word is a monthly writing workshop open to all skill levels and genres. First Mondays are for sipping on tea, responding to prompts and receiving feedback on work. Build a creative routine, gain fresh perspective and meet fellow writers in a supportive, inspiring space! Payment through cash or Venmo. First Monday of every month, 6-8pm. Cafe des Chutes, 50 SE Scott St., Bend. Contact: wordforwordworkshop@gmail. com. $5.

The Beaver Den - Beaver Book club

Each month, we select a published research paper relating to beavers to read, critically evaluate and discuss. Beavers are fascinating animals with so many mechanisms for influencing the world. Scientific writing can be impenetrable, but discussing it together can be fun! July 1, 5-7pm. Dogwood At The Pine Shed, 821 NE Second St., Bend. Contact: 5416991606. Maureen@thinkwildco.org. Free.

Classics Book Club On Wednesday, July 8, the group will discuss "Look Homeward, Angel" by Thomas Wolfe. July 8, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Current Fiction Book Club On Wednesday, July 1, the group will discuss "Whistler" by Ann Patchett. July 1, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop. com. Free.

Howl Summer Writing School A season of personal and collective writing. Three courses for each summer month meeting on Tuesday evenings, and a special drop-in session the first Thursday of each month. All works will be compiled into a chapbook sold in Howl Goods. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm and Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm. Through Aug. 25. Howl Goods, 50 SE Scott St #7, Bend. Contact: 541728-4427. hello@howlgoods.com. $20-$200.

Quiet Writing Time Bring personal work, read a book, or answer emails. Attendees come when they can, leave when they want. Free, open network WiFi available. Tuesdays, 9:30-11am. Through Oct. 27. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Wednesdays 10-11:30am, Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Thursdays, 10:30-1am. Through Sept. 24 at Sisters Library, 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@dpls.lib. or.us. Free.

Writing Wednesdays at the OAC An evening of writing, connection and creativity. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: Poetry Workshop; 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: Writing Workshop. Open to adults 18+, all levels welcome. Email: claire@ theopenartscenter.org Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

ETC.

4th of July Bike Parade Live entertainment, pony rides, contests, carnival games, yummy food will all be available for kids and parents! July 4, 11am. Village at Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver. Free.

4th of July Pet Parade Pets and pet parents are celebrating 4th of July! Pet costumes, plenty of water and treats encouraged for hungry and thirsty pups. Parade starts at Harmon Park and ends at Drake Park. Same route as the Christmas Parade. If participants think their pets won’t do well in the hot weather, they should bring a stuffed animal instead! July 4, 8:30am. Harmon Park, 1100 NW Harmon Blvd, Bend. Free.

4th of July Redmond Parade 4th of July celebration of the red, white and blue. Community members and organizations will be parading through downtown at this family-friendly event. July 4, 10am-Noon. Downtown Redmond, Sixth Street, Redmond. Free. Elixir Bar Herbal happy hour, Apothecary style. Discover seasonal elixirs, refreshing botanical beverages and healing teas crafted by herbalists. Come gather, sip and savor the abundance of the season in a welcoming space dedicated to connection and wellness. Fridays-Saturdays, 11am-5pm and Sundays, 11am2pm. Through Dec. 27. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary. net. $5-$8.

La Pine 4th of July Parade A family friendly event celebrating the 4th of July. Local businesses, rodeo stars, local community groups and more will be parade starting at La Pine Elementary School through downtown. July 4, 9am. La Pine Elementary School, 51615 Coach Road, La Pine. Free.

Trivia with “TRIVIA GIRL!” Forget A.I.! Come learn some things and answer some questions with “Trivia Girl!”(in the flesh). Prizes to be won, a physical challenge, and your chance at picking next week’s main category! 3pm Sunday @ Mels. Sundays, 3pm. Through Sept. 20. Mel’s Sports Bar, 314 SE Third St., Bend. Contact: 4405903839. boreckkm@gmail.com. Free.

Wednesday Night Rebuy Tournament

20-minute blind levels with a 10-minute break every hour. Register early to get our early bird bonus for an extra 1/3 starting stack! Unlimited rebuys for the first hour. Late registration ends at 7:10pm. Wednesdays, 6-11pm. Bend Poker Room, 917 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-508-9123. bendpokerrroom@gmail.com. $20.

OUTDOOR EVENTS

2026 Soccer World Cup During the Cup, the pub will have exclusive drink specials, gear, live music and food. Watch every match of the Cup with your family, friends and neighbors! Kids welcome until 9pm. June 11-July 20, 11am11pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

Beginner SUP class Held on the Deschutes River in the Old Mill District, this class is designed to help you build confidence while exploring Central Oregon’s scenic waterways. You’ll learn essential paddle strokes, refine maneuvering skills, improve balance and practice key safety techniques. Age 15 and older. Sundays, 10am-Noon Through Aug. 30. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, 805 SW Industrial Way Suite 6, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9407. info@tumalocreek.com. $65/person.

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.

La Pine Rodeo This is one of the largest rodeos in the west. There will be three days of action-packed patriotic fun. Live music and performances in between some of the show. Thu, July 2, 4pm, Fri, July 3, 4pm and Sat, July 4, 4pm. La Pine Rodeo Grounds, Third & Walker Street, La Pine. $25.

Rapid Progression: Two-Hour Whitewater Kayak Session Ready to level up your kayaking skills? Tumalo Creek’s Rapid Progression session is designed to help paddlers practice and refine techniques between beginner and intermediate whitewater courses. Held locally on the Deschutes River, this session offers the perfect opportunity to gain experience in a real-world setting. July 8, 5pm. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, 805 SW Industrial Way Suite 6, Bend. Contact: 541-317-9407. info@tumalocreek.com. $55/person.

Red, White & Blue 3 Miler Fun untimed 3 Miler Run/Walk in Sisters for 4th of July! Comes with a pancake and sausage breakfast, headband and finisher beads! Costume Contest, prizes and more! Stay for the Sisters 4th Festivities! Benefits Sisters High School Outlaw XC team! July 4, 7:45am-Noon. Village Green Park, 335 S. Elm St., Sisters. Contact: 971-409-8461. kelly.bither@gmail.com. $25-$40.

Women’s Walk & Talk Wednesday AdventurUs believes adventure starts with showing up—and sometimes that looks like a simple walk in the middle of the day. No pace requirements. Zero pressure. The event is open to women, including cis, trans, nonbinary and gender-expansive folks who feel aligned with a women-centered community. First Wednesday of every month, Noon-1pm. Through Dec. 31. Outside In, 845 Northwest Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541 600 4393. info@theadventurus.com. Free.

VOLUNTEER

Become a Business Mentor 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 our community. To apply, call 541 316 0662 or visit centraloregon.score.org/volunteer. Mondays. SCORE Central Oregon, NE Thurston Ave PO Box 6416, Bend. Contact: 541-316-0662. Free.

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.

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.

Join the Pet Evacuation Team Board Serving residents and their animals with emergency evacuations and sheltering during disasters. PET is actively seeking compassionate, committed leaders to serve on the board. Tuesdays. Contact: 541-610-6628. deb.k@petevacuationteam.com. Free.

KIDS Center Gala Volunteer Opportunity The KIDS Center is actively recruiting volunteers for its annual fundraiser gala at the Cork & Barrel. Volunteers will help bring hope to Central Oregon children and families. Sign ups are happening now at corkandbarrel.org/ volunteer April 10-July 17. KIDS Center, 1375 NW Kingston Ave., Bend. Free.

Mustangs to the Rescue Seeking help with all aspects of horse care. No experience necessary. Mondays-Sundays, 9am-4:30pm. Mustangs to the Rescue, 21670 McGilvray Road, Bend. Contact: 541-330-8943. volunteer@mustangstotherescue.org. Free.

NeighborImpact 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.

Red Cross Blood Drive Drop in for an hour to donate blood and help others. July 7, 10am3pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@ dpls.lib.or.us. 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: 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.

Think Wild Youth Volunteer Program Ages 14-17 Open to all 14-17 year olds! Volunteers will gain behind-the-scenes look into the career of wildlife rehabilitation, what it takes to run a wildlife hospital, care for wildlife ambassadors, educate the public about wildlife coexistence and more. Please contact volunteer@thinkwildco.org to RSVP Second Wednesday of every month, 2:30-4pm. Through Sept. 9. Think Wild, 62410 Erickson Road, Bend. Contact: 541-241-6538. volunteer@thinkwildco.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. 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 with St. Vinny’s Food Pantry! Support your neighbors facing food insecurity in Bend! Have a few hours a week, or even one day a month to give? Help with: client reception, food pickups, deliveries, truck loading & unloading, client pantry help and pantry stocking. Please apply on the website. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 9:45am-2pm and Mondays, 1:45-6pm. St. Vincent de Paul, 950 SE 3rd, Bend.

Volunteer with the Oregon Judicial Department’s Citizen Review BoardOregon’s Foster Care Review Program The Citizen Review Board program of the Oregon Judicial Department engages citizen volunteers in conducting reviews of foster care cases. Aid local courts, save taxpayer money and provide transparency to a complex and sensitive system. The Deschutes board is expanding and looking for new members! All training provided. Second Wednesday-Thursday of every month. Through Dec. 31.

Volunteer, Feed the Community, Nourish Yourself! Lots of volunteer opportunitiesservers, cooks, drivers, & more. Visit the website to learn more, create a profile, and sign up for shifts! Email Clara@FamilyKitchen.org with any questions. Ongoing, 8:30am-7pm. Family Kitchen, 231 NW Idaho, Bend. Contact: 541-760-5677. clara@familykitchen.org. Free.

Volunteering in Oregon’s High Desert with ONDA Dedicated to protecting, defending and restoring Oregon’s high desert. Guided, small group, volunteer service trips in some of eastern Oregon’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Visit 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 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? Every other Sunday, 10-11am. Happy Trails Horse Rescue, 18929 Couch Market Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-241-0783. hthrvolunteer@yahoo.com. Free.

Weed Warriors Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Weed Warriors to protect our lands from invasive weeds! The Weed Warriors volunteer group helps remove non-native weeds like spotted knapweed, teasel, mullein and Canada thistle from Land Trust protected lands. Children under 18 are permitted with a supervising adult. July 8, 9am-Noon. Indian Ford Meadow, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@ deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Appreciate Commissioner Tony DeBone and Kathy Open house style pop in and say thankyou for their years of service in Deschutes County. Tony plans to participate in this event. facebook.com/events/s/appreciate-commissioner-tony-d/1328740412791651/ July 3, 11am-7pm. La Pine Frontier Days, 16260 6th Street, La Pine. Contact: kcronen@yahoo. com. Free.

Backcountry Brew The Backcountry Brew is a monthly meetup to talk hunting, fishing, cooking, conservation and everything else that goes with the hunting-angling-outdoors lifestyle. They are all-around outdoors people happy to answer questions and share advice to help people get out and procure own wild-caught food. First Saturday of every month. The Commons Cafe & Taproom, 875 NW Brooks St., Bend. 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. Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 425-354-8867. leifawiebe@gmail.com. Free.

BUGS (Bend Ukulele Group) Weekly ukulele jam, open to all levels. Jam and sing along. Free for first timers. Play and sing along with old song favorites and experience the fun of playing this amazing little instrument. Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Pickleball Zone, 63040 NE 18th St., Bend. Contact: 206-707-6337. sherilfoster@yahoo.com. $5.

Connect W’s Munch & Mingle in Redmond Monthly noon gathering with ConnectW 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. Limited to 12. Registration required. July 2, 11:45am-1pm. Feast Food Co, 546 NW 7th St, Redmond. Contact: 541410-1894. info@connectw.org. Cost of Meal.

Creating Connections Book Group Do you want more people in your life? Or stronger bonds with people you know? Join this book group to explore emotions, deep learning and meaningful conversations. We’ll meet every other Sunday at Teal Art & Tea Lounge in downtown Bend. Look for us on Meetup.com. Every other Sunday, 11am-1pm. Through March 29. Contact: 541-668-7670. Free.

Free Casual Car Show Free car show, bring your cool or unique car to a super casual car show. Hang out with other car enthusiasts, grab a bite and a beverage. Every Saturday from 5-7pm. Vintage, Classic, Custom, Foreign Exotic, bring your cool or unusual car. No judging, no prizes, just low key fun. Saturdays, 5-7pm. Eurosports Sisters Food Cart Garden, 223 E Hood Ave., Sisters. Contact: 541-549-2471. eurosports@ bendbroadband.com. 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.

Rally League Night This event features ping-pong and foosball leagues! At the first few meetings, the group will have round robin play, gauge interest and determine league formats. Wednesdays, 5-8pm. Rally Recreation, 549 NW York Dr, Bend. Contact: 541-241-8581. info@ rallyrecreation.com. $8-$10.

Scrabble Club Meet upstairs. Club uses the 7th edition of the Scrabble Players Dictionary. All levels welcome. Wednesdays, 6-8:30pm. Market of Choice, 115 NW Sisemore St, Bend. Contact: 828-707-4390. testudine2002@yahoo.com. Free.

Women’s Cancer Support Group A group of women cancer survivors providing support and information to those newly diagnosed with cancer and/or undergoing treatment. Thursdays, 1-3pm. First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: judyerickso@gmail.com. Free.

FUNDRAISING

Bingo for Senior Dogs Play bingo while supporting senior and disabled rescue dogs at RylieMay Rescue Ranch. Spider City will also donate $1 from all beverage purchases. ryliemayrescueranch.com. Every other Thursday, 6-8pm. Spider City Brewing - Brewery Tap Room, 1177 SE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: ryliemayrescueranch@gmail.com. $1-$3 per game.

Community Yoga Class at Bevel Craft Brewing A $10–$25 sliding scale donation includes a refreshing beverage. Attendance helps bring yoga and mindfulness tools to those without access —including local youth, seniors, unhoused individuals, and incarcerated communities. Bring a mat and a friend! (limited yoga mats available onsite) Sundays, 11am-Noon Through Aug. 30. Bevel Craft Brewing, 911 SE Armour St., Bend. Contact: 541-972-3835. $10 - $25.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Cheba’s Sunday Markets 100% local vendors. Everything is created, crafted, grown and handmade in Central Oregon. Dog friendly. Adult beverages to sip and shop. Drink specials. Live music to vibe with! Sun, July 5, Noon-3pm. Cheba Hut, 1288 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541388-8400. jennee.elliff@chebahut.com. Free.

Elevation Farmers Market Food, handmade goods, music and the good ol’ feeling of community. Shop and support local makers and farmers. Fridays, 3-7pm. Through Oct. 30. Elevation Bend, 61334 S U.S. Highway 97, Bend. Free. First Friday Art Walk First Friday Art & Wine Walk in the Old Mill District is a monthly chance to explore, sip and soak up the scenery. On the first Friday of every month, local and regional artists showcase their work throughout shops and galleries, offering something new to discover each time. July 3, 3-6pm. Old Mill District, 450 SW Powerhouse Dr. Suite 422, Bend. Free.

Redmond Farmers Market Peruse and shop for some goods from local vendors and farmers. The Friday Farmers Market runs from May through August. Fridays, 3-7pm. Through Aug. 28. Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Free.

Stars & Stripes at Discovery West A festive, family-friendly celebration to honor America’s 250th birthday at Discovery West. Enjoy good ol’ fashioned desserts and refreshing beverages, try your hand at “modern” square dancing with live lessons and demonstrations, and take part in fun games and giveaways throughout the evening. The night will culminate in a spectacular patriotic drone show, with 100 drones lighting up the skies above Discovery West in a one-of-a-kind aerial display. July 3, Noon. Discovery Corner Plaza, 1125 NW Ochoa Drive, Bend. Free.

FAMILY +KIDS

“Wild Wonders” Upper Elementary Summer Camp (4th-6th grade) Students explore different wildlife systems of Central Oregon through off-site explorations of different habitat areas and all of the creatures therein. Each day will be located at a different local park! July 6-10, 9am-3pm. Tumalo State Park, 64120 O. B. Riley Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-316-0067. becca@thinkwildco.org. $325.

Art for Pre-school Class A class designed just for preschoolers ages 3–5! Each month features new themes and includes hands-on art projects, games, poems, story time, sensory-based pretend play and fun! Tuesdays-Thursdays, 10am-Noon. Wondery Art + Adventure School, 19570 Amber Meadow Dr Suite 110, Bend. Contact: 434-603-0301. julie@wonderyschool.com. Starting at $45.

Baby Ninja 6-Week Summer Series Classes include exploration through soft-obstacle Ninja Warrior courses to develop coordination and balance skills. Plus yoga fun, songs, parachute play and bubbles! Wednesdays, 5:15-6pm, Fridays, 9-9:45am, Wednesdays, 5:15-6pm and Fridays, 9-9:45am. Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $134.

Balloons with Tyler at Initiative! A balloon artist creates full-blown masterpieces right at visitors’ tables: dragons, aliens, and much more. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Initiative Brewing - The Hub, 424 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4380. followtherabbit@initiativebrew.com. Free.

Bat Walk Wednesday Join the High Desert Museum for a guided twilight expedition in search of bats! Brush up on nocturnal species with Museum experts before heading outside to search for our flying mammalian friends. Weather-appropriate clothing and a flashlight or headlamp are necessary. Registration is required. July 8, 8:30-10pm. High Desert Museum, 59800 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4754. info@highdesertmuseum.org. $10.

Certified Babysitter Training for Teens & Tweens With Camp Fire! Camp Fire is offering its popular certified babysitter course for ages 12-17 on two summer days: July 7 and July 8. This one-day training is perfect for building confidence, resumés, and skills around working with younger kids! Sign up asap - this course sells out fast! Registration required! July 7-8, 9am-5pm. Farewell Bend Park, 1000 SW Reed Market Rd., Bend. Contact: 5413824682. info@ campfireco.org.

Fashion Explorations Camp with Fashion Workshop Spend the week exploring fashion design through draping, weaving, mood boards, illustration, pattern drafting, sewing, serging and embellishment. Create seam samples, discover personal style, and design original pieces. Learn about creative careers and the realities of working in fashion and design. No experience needed! Ages 8-12 July 6-9. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend. Contact: 978771-4635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. $250. Hello! Storytime Sharing stories, movement and a touch of music with 0-5 year olds, geared toward those younger ages. July 8, 10:30-11am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 5413066564. events@ roundaboutbookshop.com. 0.

Kid’s Yoga at Namaspa! Kids classes (open to kids ages 3 and up) run in tandem with adult classes and in a separate and dedicated kid-friendly space, so parents can practice Mondays, 4-5pm. Namaspa Yoga Studio, 1135 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-550-8550. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $10.

Kids Line Dance Lessons Free Kids Line Dance Lessons every Wednesday, 5–6 PM at The Coyote, taught by instructor Alex Reininger. Recommended ages 4–12 yo. Wednesdays, 5-6pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: mindfulmotionmentor@gmail.com. Free.

Kids Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

Challenging Ninja Warrior circuits will keep kids developing new skills. 6-week series. Tuesdays, 4:15-5:15pm and Tuesdays, 4:15-5:15pm. Through Sept. 1. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $144.

Kids Ninja Summer Camp Kids will enhance their coordination, build strength, and improve their climbing skills. From spirited team games to exhilarating timed races, every moment is filled with excitement! Age 6-10 July 6-9, 9am-Noon. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $259.

Kids Open Gym This event is for kids ages 6-12. The gym includes trampolines, foam pits, ninja cage, obstacle course, fort building and more! Those interested can save a spot by pre-registering. Saturdays, 5-7:30pm. Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy, 63060 Layton Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-385-1163. $28/$48 monthly unlimited visits.

Kids Yoga Summer Camp Mindful yoga techniques are important for calming the nervous system, managing frustrations, and improving focus. Age 5 - 8 July 6-9, 12:30-3:30pm. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $269.

Mini Ninja 6-Week Summer Series

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. Wednesdays, 4:15-5pm, Fridays, 10-10:45am and First Friday of every month, 10-11:45am and 4:15-5pm. Through Sept. 4. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $134. Other dates also available.

Nano Ninja 6-Week Series Children will gain confidence while enhancing balance, increasing strength, improving focus, and enhancing body awareness through Ninja Warrior obstacle-based gymnastics and climbing. Mondays, 4:30-5:20pm and Mondays, 4:30-5:20pm. Through Aug. 31. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $144. Other dates also available.

Nature Kids: Insect Olympics! Get outside and explore the nature of Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. Kids and their families can explore, imagine and grow through hands-on activities and experiences outside. During July, explore the world of insects! Registration helpful, but not required. July 8, 9:30-11am. Alpenglow Park, 61049 Southeast 15th Street, Bend. Contact: 541-3300017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Neighborhood Nature Days This week’s program features activities with The Environmental Center. July 7, 10-11am. Al Moody Park, 2225 NE Daggett Ln., Bend. Contact: 5413624324. katie@natureconnectco.org. Free.

Ninja Elite 6-Week Summer Fast-paced and designed with challenging Ninja Warrior obstacle-based circuits, kids will learn new fitness conditioning techniques, parkour moves, and dynamic climbing and gymnastics movements. All levels are welcome. 6-week series. Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm and Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm. Through Sept. 3. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $144.

R.A.D. Camps Registration - NOW OPEN! Outdoor adventure programs for ages 4-17. Unstructured play with guided exploration across Central Oregon’s forests, lakes, and trails. Campers build confidence, creativity, and a love for nature. Mondays-Fridays, 8am-4pm. Through Sept. 1. Seven Peaks School, 19660 SW Mountaineer Way, Bend. Contact: 541-204-0440. info@radcamps.com. $89-$99.

Teen Creative Writing Workshops For all those teens who love to write stories, poetry, fan-fiction or more. Explore a range of story elements and apply techniques directly to writing. Bring a project or start from scratch. Build a Teen writing community! Donations appreciated. Wednesdays, 3-4:30pm. Through July 1. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

FOOD +DRINK

A Homemade Vinaigrette Workshop A homemade vinaigrette demonstration, with tips on how to make simple dressings using wholesome ingredients. July 2, 2-3pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541312-1065. jennym@deschuteslibrary.org. Free. Sisters Farmers Market A vibrant community gathering in the heart of downtown Sisters featuring over 45 vendors offering local produce, meat, eggs, handmade goods, specialty foods and more. Sundays, 10am-2pm. Through Oct. 25. Fir Street Park, Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0134. sistersfarmersmarket@gmail. com. Free.

BEER + DRINK

$10 Rebuy Hold’em Tournament Thursday Night $10 no limit Hold’em poker tournament at Bend Poker Room starting at 6pm. Thursdays, 6pm. Bend Poker Room, 917 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: bendpokerroom@gmail.com. $10.

$20 Tuesdays Every Tuesday, all to-go wine bottles are $20 with the purchase of a glass. Tuesdays, 3-10pm. Olvi, 1142 NW Galveston Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-241-2443. $20.

Commonwealth Pub Happy Hour It’s 5 for 5, with $5 draft beers, $5 house wines, $5 margaritas, $5 crushes and $5 well liquor. Play ping-pong, darts, cornhole, games and enjoy afternoon music on patio and indoors. Ongoing, Noon-6pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

First Friday Oyster Night Viaggio Wine Merchant’s monthly celebration of super-fresh oysters from Washington’s Hama Hama Oyster Company accompanied by an incredible roster of perfectly paired wines, Champagne, craft beer and European-style small plates and nibbles. First Friday of every month, 3-9pm. Through March 5. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Varies by Purchase.

Friday Night $80 Poker Tournament Bend Poker Room is hosting its most popular no limit hold’em poker tournament starting at 6pm. Fridays, 6-11:30pm. Bend Poker Room, 917 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-508-9123. bendpokerroom@gmail.com. $80.

Happier Hours + Power Hour $3 draft Coors Light, $5 draft beer and food cart specials that will make your taste buds dance! Mondays-Thursdays, 2-4pm and Mondays-Thursdays, 8-9pm. Midtown Yacht Club, 1661 NE Fourth St., Bend. Contact: 458-256-5454. midtownyachtclub@gmail.com. Free.

Locals’ Day $4 beers and cider and $1 off wine all day. 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.

Mezcal Mondays Every Monday get to know one new mezcal in cocktail form, and as a neat pour, at a discounted price. Plus, signature mezcal drinks are just $11 all night. Mondays, 4-11pm. The Flamingo Room, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-323-0472.

Monday WINE Down @ Portello Lounge Survived Monday? Reward yourself! All wines by the glass are $9 all night at Portello Lounge EVERY Monday. Bold reds, crisp whites, bubbles, dessert pours - no commitment required, try them all! Mondays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: contact@portellobend.com.

Soak & Sip at Flux Your midweek reset just got an upgrade! Rent robe + sandals at Flux, and walk over to Flamingo Room for a cocktail (1 drink included in the price of rental). Tues, Wed, Thurs 4-9p, every week. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 4-9pm. Flux Thermal Lounge, 70 SW Century Dr., Suite 145, Bend.

Sunday Sessions Enjoy a variety of free live music at the outdoor beer garden every Sunday until the end of August! Sundays, 4-6pm. Through Aug. 30. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room & Beer Garden, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-385–8606. Free.

Taco & Margarita Tuesdays Enjoy 2/$10 chipotle chicken street tacos and $10 margaritas! Tuesdays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-385-1777. contact@portellobend.com. Free.

Thirsty Thursday! $7 glasses of wine/bubbles, $4 Rainiers, $10 margaritas + mules, $7 Wild Roots vodka lemonades, $12 Aperol spritz. Thursdays, 4-9pm. Portello Lounge, 2754 NW Crossing Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-385-1777. contact@portellobend.com. Free.

Tiki Tuesdays Every Tuesday features a new rum at a discounted price. Additionally all signature rum drinks just $11 all night. Tuesdays, 4-11pm. The Flamingo Room, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 5413230472. info@theflamingoroombend.com.

Trivia Tuesday Trivia Tuesday with Emily! Free to play with prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Industry Night with 25% off beverage service for workers in the food, bev or cannabis industry! Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Cheba Hut, 1288 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-388-8400. bend-westside@chebahut.com. Free.

Wine On The Deck Come sit, relax and learn from the different local wineries featured on the year-round wine list. Each glass will be paired with a unique array of small-plates from our chef, using seasonal ingredients to compliment each wine. Tuesdays, 5-8pm. Through Sept. 1. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: sales@thesuttlelodge.com. $81.80.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

5K Trail Tour Discover a new scenic trailhead each week, hone your trail running skills and maintain consistency with the help of fun fellow women during the 5K Trail Tour! From 7/7-8/19. ceilingunlimitedhealthcoaching.com/event-details/5k-trail-tour-summer-2026 July 7, 7am and July 8, 6pm. Downtown Bend. Contact: 503-4810595. michelle@ceilingunlimitedhealthcoaching. com. $30/session.

Access Bars and Body Process Gifting and Receiving Did you know your body’s first language is energy? Group trade of Access Bars and Body Processes is a great way to connect with others in the area and receive! If you have taken a Bars or Body Process class, join! What’s possible if we receive bodywork regularly? Everything! First Tuesday of every month, 5-7pm. The Blissful Heart Hidden Garden, 105 NW Greeley Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-848-7608. jenniferevemorey@gmail.com. Free.

Belly Dance Classes, all levels welcome Expand your movement language by learning a variety of Belly Dance styles + build strength, grace, confidence, & community. Classes include a great workout, yoga, professional technique, functional fitness approach for alignment, longevity, & safety in movement and body. Performance opportunities for those who desire Mondays, 5-6:15pm. Private Studio, ., Bend. Contact: templetribalfusion.com/contact/. $20. Breath & Sound Bath ~ Sonic Bliss... Breathe gently and deeply within this healing 432Hz Crystal Bowl, Didgeridoo, Reiki, Sound Bath and Breathwork experience. Open with gentle movement, tapping and Chi Kung, flowing into a guided breathwork session and sound bath. July 5, 6-7:15pm. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: 808887-0830. lisacswisher@gmail.com. 28.52.

Care Empowerment Series: Supporting the Six Human Needs in Dementia Care A 6-week caregiver series focused on ABC Dementia Care’s 6 Human Needs: Physical, Emotional, Social, Mental, Vocational and Spiritual. Each session offers practical support, understanding and connection for those caring for someone with dementia. Attend one session or the full series. Mondays, 4:30-6pm. Through Aug. 3. Spark Rehab and Wellness, 123 SW Columbia St., Bend. Contact: 5417283635. patty@abcdementia. com. 20 per session or $100 for all 6 weeks.

Concussion Support Group Support group for those experiencing concussion recovery. Connect with others who have experienced concussion, practice strategies and learn from other related professionals on a variety of topics related to concussion recovery. First Tuesday of every month, 4-5pm. Sagebrush Speech Therapy, 604 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: info@ sagebrushspeech.com. Free.

Energetic Readings/Intuitive Readings

Energetic readings reveal the energies that boost, block or impact you in specific areas of your life. Tuning into your unique energy system, we explore where you feel stuck, limited or unsettled, and how you can shift to feel more joyful and empowered. In-person and Zoom. Learn more at bluelotusenergetics.com/energetic-readings. Tuesdays, 10am-7pm and Thursdays, 7-9pm. Blue Lotus Energetics, 145 NE Revere Ave, Studio C, Bend. Contact: 541-2412207. hello@bluelotusenergetics.com. $125.

First Moon Ceremony This experience will instill confidence in a girl’s journey toward womanhood by softening cultural shame around menstruation, creating connection with other same-age youths and embodying the emotional resilience needed to navigate the liminal spaces of the tween years and beyond. Wed, July 8, 5-7pm. Private Residence in Tumalo, Tumalo, Bend. Contact: 541-948-5035. jessica@intrepidher.com. $33.

Friday Yoga Wind down your summer weekends with playful grounding outdoor yoga classes steps away from The Lodge. Yoga classes are taught by Ulla Lundgren, who has more than 28 years experience as a yoga teacher, yoga teacher training facilitator and studio owner. Yoga classes are accessible and fun for all ages First Friday of every month, 10-11am. Through Aug. 28. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: sales@thesuttlelodge.com. $25.

Men’s Connection Group The perfect event for men struggling with life challenges and looking for support. An evening of support, sharing and connection. Mondays, 6:30-8:30pm. Living Undone, 33 NW Louisiana Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-410-5572. centraloregonmen@gmail.com. Free/ Donations accepted.

Men’s Yoga for Anxiety and Stress Reduction Shift out of fight-or-flight and unwind a fried nervous system. This session uses grounded somatic practices to drop stress, clear mental anxiety and reset your baseline. Stop keeping the pressure bottled up—come do the work. First Wednesday of every month, 8-9am. Private Home, Deschutes River Woods, Bend. Contact: 541-668-7594. andrew@masculineembodiment.com. Donation.

Men’s Yoga for Low Back & Hips Mobility Stop ignoring that stiff lower back and locked hips. Join Mondays at 5pm for a zero-fluff mobility session built for the male frame. Reset your nervous system, clear the compression and rebuild your physical baseline. Email/text for Zoom link/ address. Mondays, 5pm. Private Home, Deschutes River Woods, Bend. Contact: 541-668-7594. andrew@masculineembodiment.com. Donation.

Mini Inner Wisdom Coaching Sessions Tap your inner knowing for clarity, agency and ease. We’ll use intuitive tarot, heart-centered coaching and somatic practices to help you connect to your body’s wisdom and refresh your spirit. July 2, 5-7pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 5416335977. info@bodyandbeinghealing.com. 30.00.

NAMI Family Support Group Gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows one’s voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for personal needs to be met. It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community. Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE Ninth St., Bend. Contact: info@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

NAMI Mental Health Peer Support Group: La Pine 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 Tuesdays of each month. First and Third Tuesday of every month, 3pm. La Pine Senior Activity Center, 16450 Victory Way, La Pine. Contact: 541-316-0167. programs@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Open House This is a monthly Open House, on the first Tuesday of each month! Take a pause in the day and enjoy the beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. This is a time to explore, connect, nourish and create. First Tuesday of every month, 4-7pm. Through Dec. 3. Hanai, 62430 Eagle Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6494. info@hanaifoundation.org.

Outdoor Yoga Classes An all-levels Outdoor Yoga Class! Classes offering sun salutations and creative yoga sequences to spark heat, amp up endurance and build strength and flexibility. Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays-Saturdays, 9:15-10:15am. Through Sept. 12. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $22.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

Experience the excitement of the Wilco Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo with live entertainment, thrilling rides, and unforgettable family fun. From the Children’s Museum and petting zoo to pony rides and concerts, there’s something here for everyone.

July 29 - AUGUST 2

July 29th - AUGUST 2

July 29th - AUGUST 2

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

July 29th - AUGUST 2ND

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

July 29th - AUGUST 2ND

July 29th - AUGUST 2ND

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

Central Oregon’s largest annual event returns for the 106th edition

Pain Free Posture -

Celebrating More than 50 Years of The Vance Stance Tired of being in pain? Get to the root of why you are tight & suffering. Learn to stand in gravity, not behind it. Offering a series of 5 1.5 hour sessions in a private studio for $175. You pick the date and time. Wednesdays, 12-1:30pm. EastSide Home Studio, 21173, Bend. Contact: 541-330-9070. vancebonner@juno.com. $175 for 5 class series. Prineville In-Person Group NAMI Connection Peer 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. First and Third Wednesday of every month, 3pm. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 695 N.W. Third St., Prineville. Contact: organize@namicentraloregon.org. Free. Redmond NAMI Family Support Group

The National Alliance of Mental Illness is having a Family Support Group. This is a peer-led group program for family members, caregivers, and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. Third and First Tuesday of every month, 6-7pm. Redmond Seventh Day Adventist Church, 945 SW Glacier Rd, Redmond. Contact: 541-3160888. organize@namicentraloregon.org. Free.

Rest as Resistance Slow down with supported restorative postures, hands-on or hands-hovering Reiki and guided rest. Close with space to share or simply be witnessed — because there is power in being together. Wednesdays, 6:157:30pm. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918-671-5457. hello@pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

Rest in Rhythm This slow, floor-based practice combines gentle movement, supported rest, guided meditation and live sound to help settle into the body and reconnect with breath. Designed to support the nervous system without urgency or expectation, Rest in Rhythm offers a softer start to the day. Thursdays, 7-8am. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918-671-5457. hello@ pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

Reverie Healing: Mobile Reiki In a world that rarely slows down, Reiki offers a chance to pause. Reverie Healing provides personalized sessions that support stress relief, emotional balance and nervous system restoration, helping you feel more grounded, present and connected to yourself. Mobile sessions available throughout Central Oregon. June 22-Sept. 2. Central Oregon, Countywide, . Contact: 971-266-3401. Paige. Bevando@gmail.com. $85.

Rooted in Refuge Through long-held, supported yin postures, Rooted in Refuge invites one to slow down, soften, and reconnect with oneself through breath, awareness, and rest. With Erin’s warm and grounded guidance, this class offers space to tune inward and gently tend to the nervous system in community. Thursdays, 4:30-5:30pm. Pine & Prism Wellness Collective, 856 NW Bond St., Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 918671-5457. hello@pineandprism.com. Pay what you can.

Sunset Yoga + Reflection Event Flow into a peaceful summer evening with an uplifting Vinyasa practice, grounding yin stretches, guided meditation and quiet reflection by the river. Surrounded by mountain views and golden sunset light, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, centered, and deeply restored. All levels welcome. July 3, 7:15-8:45pm. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 5412413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $30.

Taize Meditation Service The Taize Choir of Central Oregon invites you to participate in an hour of meditative Taize music, prayer, and silence at our monthly interfaith service, 7pm, first Thu., of Oct. through June at St. Helens Hall. We welcome new musicians and singers. We also encourage families to attend. First Thursday of every month, 7pm. Trinity Episcopal Church - St. Helens Hall, 231 NW Idaho St., Bend. Contact: 541-815-5574. taizebend@gmail.com. Free.

Wednesday Night Astrology Talk People root themselves in ancient teachings of both philosophy and astronomy to link to the astrology of modern times. Learn about the divine cosmic tapestry of time. Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30pm. Unity Spiritual Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Dr,, Bend. Contact: 657-349-9750. esoteric.butcher@gmail.com. $5-$20 Donation.

Weekly Online Breathwork Weekly online breathwork hosted from Bend and open worldwide. Release stress, reset the nervous system and reconnect to calm through guided Conscious Connected Breathing. Trauma-aware and choice-based. Wednesdays, 6:30pm. Through Dec. 30. Contact: confluencebreathbody@gmail. com. $22.

Yoga @ The Elk Lake 60-minute Vinyasa yoga class set against the serene backdrop of Elk Lake in Central Oregon. This inclusive all-levels practice invites everyone, from first-time yogis to seasoned practitioners, to experience the harmonious blend of movement, breath, and nature. Sat, July 4, 10-11am. Elk Lake Resort - Lodge Bar & Restaurant, 60000 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-316-9213. missie@romingyogabend. com. $25.

Yoga in the Park Join in the evenings the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6pm-7pm at Pioneer Park for a fun yoga flow! No yoga experience necessary, just bring a mat! 60 min of groovy yoga flow. $5-10 Donation July 1, 6-7pm. Pioneer Park - Bend, 1565 NW Wall St, Bend. Contact: 5419052949. soundbathstillness@ gmail.com. $5-10 donation.

GUNG HO

By L. Kent Wolgamott

Here Come The Mummies

The undead are making a stop at Silver Moon

For a quarter century, a band of 5,000-year-old, bandage-wrapped undead have prowled America with their “terrifying funk from beyond the grave.” Sometimes sharing the stage with the likes of Parliament-Funkadelic, Al Green, Mavis Staples and Cheap Trick, other times appearing at massive festivals and often, headlining at clubs, theaters and festivals, Here Come The Mummies sell tickets by the thousands for their crowd-pleasingly entertaining shows.

Not bad for a group, legend says, that was cursed to wander the earth undead after deflowering a Pharaoh’s daughter.

Or, maybe this is really a collection of Grammy-winning Nashville studio musicians who’ve adopted the mummy routine to maintain their anonymity and cook up some funk outside of the studios where they earn their keep.

Let’s go with the legend, and talk to Mummy Cass — get it? — who dialed in from Music City recently before Here Come the Mummies hit the road for yet another tour.

So how do a bunch of 5,000-year-old mummies learn to play guitar, etc?

“We were around in the invention of guitars,” Cass said. “I mean, drums are around before us. We kind of helped him invent them (guitars). So we made them fit our fingers”

And how did you end up choosing funk?

“I think George Clinton from Funkadelic said it — aliens came down and helped us build the pyramids,” Cass answered. “The choice of music back then was funky music from out of space. It’s changed through the years, but it’s basically the same kind of funkiness. So, it is the music of the time for us, baby.”

Is it tough to get up there and play with all the bandages, do they get in the way of your instruments? Do you get hot?

“We’re undead, so the heat doesn’t bother us,” Cass said. “I don’t know if the bandages bother us so much. But

me, in particular, my joints are so old that I can’t even walk down stairs without groaning and grunting and everything. It’s not easy. But, baby, funky, funky music gets me moving, so I don’t even feel it once I get going. But the first couple steps, man, I’m making noise.”

When you guys play a bunch of shows, does the strain get worse as the tour goes on or is it the same undead state all the time?

“I kind of get worn out a little bit, but I am really looking forward to this (tour),” Cass replied. “Lucky for us, Spazmo, he’s been singing a little bit more these days. And Dr. You, who’s our bari saxophone player, he’s been singing a few. So I got my backup quarterbacks there, so if I ever need some help, they can help me out.”

So, who writes the music?

“Well, it’s all of us…I’m sitting here, actually, with Eddie Mummy. He’s the drummer, baby. He and I do a lot,” Cass said. “Spaz has been doing a lot of music. Midnight Mummy, he’s not new, but he’s one of the later additions to the band. He’s been writing a lot of stuff. People show up with funky ideas and we’re ready to roll.”

It sounds like you guys have a hell of a lot of fun out there.

“We got lucky,” Cass said. “I gotta be honest with you, man. We got cursed, but the curse has been lucky. It’s a bunch of fun. Every night is fun. The music keeps us going.”

You’ve been a band for a quarter century, which sounds impressive and it is an achievement. But I guess if you’re 5,000 years old, that puts longevity in perspective.

“Yeah. we were playing before we got mummified,” Cass said. “We got on earth about 25 years ago. We might be here for another 5,000 years. Who knows?”

CHOW C Foam Sweet Foam: Why Cold Foam is Floating to the Top This Summer

The simple milk topping transforms into colorful custom creations for iced drinks

By Donna Britt

If there is one thing that seems to be crowning every iced drink in Bend this summer, it’s cold foam. From cold brew and iced lattes to colorful fruit teas and energy drinks, cold foam has become the fluffy finishing touch that coffee shops and tea houses cannot seem to stop pouring.

What started as a simple layer of aerated milk has evolved into an entire category of beverage customization, complete with seasonal flavors, dairy free options and social media-worthy creations. And while it may feel like a recent trend, cold foam’s roots stretch back much farther than most people realize.

Cold foam, also known as milk foam or cold milk foam, can trace its origins to several coffee loving cultures around the world. Scandinavian countries such as Sweden and Denmark have long served cold beverages topped with milk foam. Japan has featured iced drinks with foamy milk toppings for years. In Greece, the beloved freddo cappuccino combines a double shot of iced espresso with a thick, velvety layer of cold milk foam known as afrogala.

Still, many coffee drinkers credit Starbucks with introducing cold foam to the American mainstream. In 2014, the company launched its Cold Foam Cascara Cold Brew, helping transform a relatively niche beverage component

into a national obsession. Other coffee chains and independent cafes quickly followed suit.

Now, over a decade later, cold foam has become its own genre. Part of the appeal is texture. Unlike whipped cream, which can quickly collapse into a drink, cold foam is light, airy and remarkably stable. It sits atop iced beverages like a pillowy cloud, gradually blending into the drink below as you sip.

The process itself is fairly simple. Cold foam is created by aerating milk, or a milk alternative, into thousands of tiny bubbles. Nonfat milk is often used because its high protein content creates a stiff, stable foam. Half and half produces a richer, denser texture. Some recipes use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream for extra indulgence. Dairy free options such as oat milk, almond milk and soy milk have also become increasingly popular.

Using a blender, specialty foamer or similar device, the milk is whipped until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. The result is a topping that feels luxurious without the heaviness of traditional cream.

Of course, simple milk foam was never going to be enough. Today, cold foam comes in countless flavors. Sweet cream cold foam remains a favorite, but coffee shops now offer everything from vanilla

and caramel to matcha, fruit-inspired varieties and seasonal specialties. For many customers, choosing the foam has become almost as important as choosing the drink itself.

For whatever reason, the cold foam craze never quite caught my attention. I love iced tea. I drink it all summer long. But iced coffee and cold brew have never been my thing. And the idea of cream floating on top of a cold beverage did not sound particularly appealing. I do not even like old fashioned cream sodas.

This summer, however, I made a promise to myself to try things I have never tried before. Don’t get too excited. I will not be ziplining down Mt. B or surfing the Whitewater Park anytime soon. But I am willing to branch out when it comes to food and drink.

I decided to start with iced tea and cold foam. My first stop was the new Tea & Art Lounge, better known as TEAL, in downtown Bend. I ordered a Luscious Cherry White Iced Tea and, at the recommendation of the barista, added oat milk cold foam with a hint of vanilla sweetness. The result surprised me.

Instead of feeling heavy, the foam added a silky texture and subtle sweetness that complemented the tea. Each sip delivered a little bit of creamy richness without overwhelming the bright cherry flavor underneath. Next time, I’m excited to try coconut cold foam, since coconut screams summertime to me and I always love coconut-anything.

At TEAL, customers can add custom

cold foam to virtually any beverage. Daily rotating options have included flavors such as Ube Cold Foam and London Fog Cold Foam. Guests can customize foam with any syrup available behind the counter. Recent creations have included a Strawberry Kiwi Iced Tea topped with Passionfruit Cold Foam, an Herbal Coffee Iced Tea finished with White Chocolate Cold Foam and a striking Butterfly Pea Iced Tea layered with Matcha Cold Foam, creating a dramatic tie-dyed effect in the glass.

TEAL is hardly alone. At Dutch Bros, cold foam appears under the name Soft Top. Customers can add it to iced coffees, cold brews and Rebel energy drinks. Beyond the standard version, fans can customize Soft Top with flavored syrups or choose sugar free options.

Then there is Starbucks, which continues to expand its already extensive foam lineup. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam remains a staple, but customers can also find options such as Brown Sugar Cream Cold Foam, Matcha Cream Cold Foam and an ever changing roster of seasonal variations. The possibilities seem almost endless.

For those who prefer a do-it-yourself approach, cold foam is surprisingly easy to make at home. A French press works remarkably well. Simply add milk and pump the plunger vigorously until foam forms. A mason jar can accomplish a similar result with a little arm strength and enthusiasm. Handheld milk frothers are inexpensive and make the process even easier.

Whether you make it yourself or seek out the latest creation around town, cold foam appears to have secured its place as one of summer’s favorite beverage trends.

As for me, I’m still not ready for cold brew. But cold foam on iced tea? Now that’s the trend I’m ready to get behind.

LITTLE BITES

By Nic Moye

A Small Batch Sourdough Kitchen Launches in Bend

Lady Sourdough sells bread, English muffins and artisan cookies

Jessica Natvig recently moved across the country from Marco Island, Florida, to Bend with her dehydrated sourdough starter in tow. She and her husband are from Oregon. They have a busy household with three sons, ages 7, 4 and 6 weeks, but still manage to operate a small batch sourdough kitchen called Lady Sourdough out of their home.

“Everything that is baked is handmade, rolled and shaped by me,” Natvig says. “I love the aspect of being on social media and creating content around what I do because people can see the love and hard work I put into my craft. I don’t have a large staff who works for me, it’s just my husband and me. We really love what we do and hope to continue to grow here.”

In Florida, she grew a fan base large enough to support her family. She hopes to create the same kind of loyal following here. She sells her sourdough bread, English muffins and cookies at the Northwest Crossing Saturday Farmers Market, usually located near the hummus stand.

Natvig left her busy job as a property manager at a large condominium in Florida to spend more time at home with her boys. She began making sourdough to help her 4-year-old who was struggling with eczema.

“I had read gluten can be a big trigger so I started making sourdough to introduce clean foods to him that he would actually eat because he is a pretty picky eater but loves bread,” Natvig explains. “It doesn’t cause his eczema

to flare up unlike most gluten products, due to the natural slow fermentation process and cleaner flour.”

She says her first attempts ended in frustration with a starter going straight into the trash. Through trial and error, she found a recipe and a rhythm that became an integral part of her routine.

Online she writes that Lady Sourdough is somewhere between “the beauty of slow, old-world baking and the joy of building something meaningful right in the middle of everyday life.”

Central Oregon has an abundance of micro-bakers, but Natvig feels there’s room. “There are more and more people who are learning the health benefits of real sourdough and want that as an option instead of typical store-bought bread.”

Through her website, she offers instructions on how to make a proper loaf of bread or cookies to empower others in starting their own sourdough journey.

“I’m so happy to be back in Oregon, it will be the very best of both worlds to get to live in the state I love most, doing the work I love, so I hope I get the opportunity to bake for many here in the area. I hope they come out to the market to give us a try.”

CHOW

Base Camp: Bend’s West Side is Getting a Food Truck Destination Unlike Any Other

A family-designed gathering spot promises 10 food trucks, 36 taps and a few fun surprises — including an 18-foot projector screen

By Wally Hofmann

By mid-July, a corner of Bend’s west side near Powder House Ski & Patio is going to look a lot different. Where a narrow lot once sat largely underused, a 7,000-square-foot building has risen — barn wood walls, 40-foot ceilings, a 50-foot belly bar and a rooftop garden perched atop repurposed shipping containers. Welcome to Base Camp, a new food truck lot and event space that Todd and Shanda McGee have spent years — and thousands of miles of road-tripping — bringing to life.

“My wife and I started thinking about doing this probably five or six years ago,” said Todd, who co-owns the adjacent Powder House ski shop with Shanda. “The property next to the Powder House is fairly skinny, so we started doing a lot of research. Every place we traveled, we stopped at every food cart lot. We talked to the owners, the vendors, and the customers — and we took thousands of pictures.”

That research produced something well beyond a casual collection of food trucks. Base Camp is being designed as a four-season community hub — a place to eat, drink, watch the big game, host a rehearsal dinner, or warm up after a day on the mountain.

A building designed from the inside out

The centerpiece of Base Camp is its main building, which the McGees essentially designed themselves before handing the plans to architects for engineering. Seven roll-up garage doors and floor-toceiling windows blur the line between indoors and out, while full heating and air conditioning make it a genuine yearround destination — a deliberate choice given that next-door Powder House sees its heaviest traffic in winter.

The bar — a 50-foot belly bar with 36 taps — anchors the space. The McGees plans to spotlight high-end cocktails built around premium tequilas and whiskeys, alongside a curated wine list. Multiple televisions feed into an 18-foot projection screen that can also be split into four 220-inch displays simultaneously.

“You’ll be able to watch multiple games at once,” Todd said. “And one thing I believe we’ll be the only venue in the Northwest to offer — you can pick any TV you want and listen to it on your earbuds. You could tune into a broadcast playing on a screen across the room.”

Upstairs, a 21-and-over lounge is available for private rentals and events. The space has already drawn bookings from the Nordic Club, a ski club, and several couples planning rehearsal dinners. The building holds up to 360 guests, with a 1,000-square-foot second-floor deck adding elevated outdoor viewing above the main floor. Recreational touches — pool tables, shuffleboard, darts, and pinball machines — complete the communal, camp-inspired atmosphere.

The food truck lineup

After fielding more than 60 applicants, the McGees used a hands-on screening process to narrow the field: finalists were invited to cook for the Powder House staff — a group of more than 30 people ranging in age from 20 to 65.

“Everybody had to like it,” emphasized Todd. “They’re making scratch food, scratch sauces — not just repurposing something from a deep fryer. That’s how they all got invited to the family.”

The result is a lineup of 10 trucks spanning a broad range of cuisines:

• Luckey’s Woodsman Trailside Kitchen — rustic, outdoor-inspired fare

• Let’s Roll — sushi and Asian fusion

• Jazzy Joe Coffee Co. — specialty coffee

• Chonie’s Pizza — artisan pizza

• Mundrelli’s Italian Kitchen — Italian comfort classics

• ThAiPAS Thai Street Food — Thai street food

• P53 Fresh — fresh and health-forward options

• Pho 88 — Vietnamese pho

• I Love Ceviche — fresh ceviche and Latin seafood

• El Taquero — Mexican tacos and street food

Inside the main building, two kiosks round out the offerings: a Let’s Roll Sushi counter focused on higher-end

selections, and a Jazzy Joe kiosk carrying coffee, sandwiches, homemade ice cream and cookies.

Built for all seasons

Outside, Base Camp offers 5,000 square feet of open patio and walkway space, plus a 1,000-square-foot covered and heated patio — essential for keeping guests comfortable as fall gives way to winter. Fire pits, picnic tables and plush, cleanable seating throughout reflect Shanda’s insistence on both comfort and practicality.

Sustainability runs through the design as well. Turf replaces grass to conserve water, rainwater will be collected to irrigate trees and shrubs, and the building is already plumbed and ducted for solar panels when the budget allows. High-efficiency water heaters, furnaces and double-glazed sealed windows round out the energy-efficient infrastructure.

More than 100 large indoor plants — some reaching 16 feet — are being placed throughout the bar and lounge, many collected over the past year by the McGees’ daughter, Emma.

“They help absorb noise — plus they look cool,” Shanda added.

That noise consideration runs throughout. The 40-foot ceilings required serious acoustic engineering, and Todd says the team spent heavily on insulation and sound treatment. “You go to restaurants now, and the air is so loud,” he said. “We went overboard on it — on purpose.”

Base Camp has added 42 parking spaces to the existing Powder House lot, bringing the total for the combined complex to more than 100 spots — a practical consideration given the anticipated

draw of a 10-truck food destination with a full bar and event space.

The project has not been without its challenges. “The construction process has not been as easy-going as we expected,” Todd acknowledged, “but we’re getting close to the end — and that’s very exciting.”

A family affair

Above all, Base Camp is a family project. Todd and Shanda, both with deep roots in Bend, have run Powder House together for 25 years. Their oldest son, Hayden, will serve as general manager of Base Camp. Every design decision — from door handles to stair rails to siding colors — was made as a group, with Powder House staff also weighing in on paint, wallpaper, and finishes.

That collaborative spirit shows up in unexpected places, including the restrooms. Each bathroom stall has its own theme, color palette, curated posters and individual speakers programmed to play distinct audio environments — birdsong in one, a waterfall in another, and yes, bad dad jokes in at least one.

“When people use the bathroom, they’ll go back to their friends and say, ‘You’ve got to check that out,’” Todd said.

A soft opening is expected in mid-July. After years of planning, thousands of photographs, and countless scouting trips, the McGees are ready to pull up a swivel chair — and invite the rest of Bend to join them.

Base Camp Opening mid-July

311 SW Century Dr, Bend instagram.com/basecamp_bend/

LITTLE BITES

By Nic Moye

New Japanese/French Inspired Bakery Opening in Downtown Bend

The owner of Pika Pika is expanding to include a cafe

The owner of the Pika Pika, Vivienne Mariotti, is expanding her business next door into the former Red Chair Art Gallery space on the corner of NW Bond Street and Oregon Avenue to open a cafe.

“Our vision for the adjacent space is to create an elevated Japanese and French-inspired pastry concept that focuses on handcrafted pastries, Viennoiserie and specialty desserts,” Mariotti told the Source. “The space will be designed to feel warm, inviting, and experience-driven, complementing Pika Pika while offering something entirely new to Bend ”

She says at first she’ll focus primarily on pastries with specialty beverages, including coffee, tea and other curated drinks. There will be limited seating for customers to hang out if they don’t want the items to go. Mariotti has developed a following for her pastries which she sells at the NWX Farmers Market on Saturdays and the Redmond Farmers Market on Friday afternoons. She says those markets have been a good place to test new pastries and introduce her brand.

“Some of the menu items we’re currently developing include laminated pastries, such as croissants, Danishes and pain Suisse, as well as gluten-free mochi muffins, seasonal fruit desserts and Japanese- and French-inspired baked goods that are difficult to find locally,” she says. “We’ll also continue rotating seasonal items and introducing new flavors throughout the year.”

Mariotti isn’t sure when renovations will be finished, but once she opens, she expects the cafe hours to be primarily during the morning and daytime serving breakfast, pastries and beverages with occasional special events, workshops and evening experiences. She says she’s encouraged by the response so far.

“Honestly, we have been pleasantly surprised by how quickly the pastry side of the business has resonated with the community. The excitement around our offerings has exceeded our expectations and has reinforced our belief that there is a strong appetite in Bend for unique, high-quality pastry experiences.”

Pika Pika, which sells Asian-inspired pop culture collectibles and gifts, opened last November. Mariotti says while the broader economy presents challenges for small businesses, she’s seen continued growth and customer support.

“Fortunately, we have not experienced any major importing issues,” she says. “We work closely with our suppliers and continue to source products carefully to maintain the quality and uniqueness that our customers expect.”

Mariotti says she’s grateful for the support she’s received from the Bend community, which is allowing her to open a cafe.

“We’re excited to continue creating spaces that bring people together, inspire curiosity and offer experiences that feel both memorable and special.”

LITTLE BITES

By Julie Furnas

Small Pocket, Big Taste

Hot Lava Empanadas opens a food truck in Bend

Every morning, a warm and inviting aroma comes from the center of the Village in Sunriver, where Hot Lava Bakery is serving up delicious pastries, coffee drinks and blended smoothies to locals and tourists. Along with an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, Hot Lava Bakery makes custom cakes and cupcakes for events and special occasions. Owner and operator, Cecilia Barrenechea, originally from Uruguay, has been serving the Central Oregon community for decades and she is excited to bring the flavors of South America through an extension of the bakery with Hot Lava Empanadas.

South American empanadas are a fried or baked crescent shaped turnover made of pastry or light dough. The fillings range from beef, chicken, cheese, vegetables, potatoes, eggs and fruit. Most Latin American countries have their own version of empanadas and while they might be small, they are truly filling!

I ordered the spicy beef with chimichurri sauce, the ham and cheese and apple empanada and I was not disappointed. Every oozing bite was full of flavor and delight!

The Hot Lava Empanadas food truck is now centrally located at Silver Moon Brewing. The Source spoke with Aspyn Steeley who works full time for the empanada truck, currently open in the afternoon and evenings.

the Source: How long has Hot Lava been at the food truck lot at Silver Moon?

Aspyn Steeley: June 17 was our first day here and we started our Door Dash Service today (June 24). Both are very exciting for us!

tS: How has it been received here in Bend in this location?

AS: Pretty well received, the brewery customers are very lively either because they’ve been at the brewery, attending a concert or one of the many events they have here. They’re happy to see something new here.

tS: What are the most popular items on the menu so far?

AS: So far, people are loving the spicy beef, the creamy cheese chicken and the vegetarian options. A lot of our ingredients are imported from Argentina, so the flavors and sauces are very unique to the region.

tS: What else is on the menu that’s specific to the Argentinian and Uruguayan regions?

AS: Our desserts like Pastaflora (Quince Jam Pie), the Alfahores (sandwich cookies) and Medialuna with Ham & Cheese. We also carry several desserts with chocolate that are very good.

tS: Will there be more opportunities for people to get their hands on these empanadas?

AS: Yes, we hope to open for other events like Not Cho’ Grandmas Bingo and other events that happen at different times.

Hot Lava Empanadas Wed-Sat 3-8pm, Sun 10am-8pm Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend instagram.com/hotlavabakery/p/DZvHqCet4mN/

CULTURE

Expanding the Story

With a new facility coming, the High Desert Museum takes a fresh look at the stories of the plateau region

By Kim Cooper Findling

When the High Desert Museum opened in 1982, founder Don Kerr had a lofty vision for the destination he’d long dreamed of. The campus nestled in the forest south of Bend would create experiences to inspire awe, curiosity and wonder in visitors, which would in turn stimulate learning and stewardship about the unique high desert landscape and the creatures that call it home. “It amazes me that he thought of this so long ago,” said High Desert Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw. “The responsibility I carry is to further this mission and vision, and to make sure that the next 40 years of visitors will continue to have these powerful experiences.”

During its 44-year run, the Museum has seen many periods of development. This spring, leaders embarked on the latest endeavor to grow the 135acre, indoor/outdoor facility — a $40 million campus expansion that will create a new 24,000-square-foot wing to include new classrooms, expanded gallery space and event and gathering spaces. The improvements will allow the facilities to “catch up to the programming,” said Whitelaw. With visitation steadily on the rise and programming growing to meet demand, the Museum has outgrown many of its spaces. “At their core, museums are educational organizations,” said Whitelaw. “The expansion will mean that we can be a museum and also hold large-scale events, host more interactive programming and lead workshops in flexible indoor/outdoor classrooms.”

While planned improvements will serve many museum needs, Whitelaw said that the impetus for the expansion sprang from one primary motivator. “This all came from conversations about a desire to renovate ‘By Hand Through Memory,’” she said. The exhibit interpreting plateau indigenous culture opened in 1999 and features the Doris Swayze Bounds collection, considered one of the most meaningful collections of its kind in the nation. “It was always the intention to tell the contemporary stories of regional indigenous cultures through this exhibit,” said Whitelaw. “The stories are different after 25 years, and there is a new generation of storytellers to tell them. Understanding of how visitors learn has evolved, as well.”

In 2019, the Museum convened an advisory group consisting of plateau indigenous community members and scholars of the region to begin

reimagining the interpretation of the Bounds collection and revising exhibits. That group has met regularly to discuss relevant topics and means of storytelling. Some of that work has already made its way to the walls of the Museum, in temporary displays inviting interactive public feedback. “We’ve created a test lab for content that will better align with our goals and not reinforce stereotypes,” said Whitelaw. “We want visitors to feel a sense of welcome and belonging, to see their stories being told, and to listen to others’ stories.”

The newly imagined space will include dynamic exhibits, with rotating objects, mini exhibitions and changing collections. The redesigned primary exhibit will serve as the anchor to the wing, with event and art gallery spaces providing the means to deepen the conversation. One space, called the Gathering, was crafted to support a new Museum initiative called the High Desert Project. Small groups meet multiple times over a shared topic, for instance, wolves or water, to foster connection and dialogue. “The museum was always a place to learn about regional topics in order to deepen the dialogue, to create conversation, to be good neighbors, and to make more thoughtful decisions,” said Whitelaw.

Last year, changes in national policy resulted in the Museum seeing eight out of nine previously awarded federal grants terminated. As some of those decisions have been challenged in the courts, several of the Museum’s grants have been reinstated, mostly for special projects but with some funds for the expansion. To date, the Museum has raised 87% of its goal for the expansion through a combination of government grants, private foundations and individual giving. “The Museum is overwhelmingly supported by the community, with both affection and dollars,” said Whitelaw. “We need places like museums even more than ever now, to create shared learning experiences and to be enveloped by humanity. It’s a critical part of staying connected, as individuals, regions, communities, and a nation.”

High Desert Museum Daily 9am-5pm 59800 S Hwy 97, Bend highdesertmuseum.org/

CULTURE

Find Your Fun Outside Book recommendations to pair with the outdoors

By Sara Rishforth, author and bookseller at Roundabout Books and Cafe

It’s that time of the year again! Outrun the mosquitoes at Tumalo Falls as you hike to Happy Valley, run the Burma Road Trail, soak up some rays paddleboarding on Three Creek Lake and hike Black Butte, starting from the bottom of the trail. Those are just a few favorite activities to kick off summer!

The benefits of being outside are endless! From reducing stress to absorbing Vitamin D, the fresh air and movement of your body feels so good. You leave behind unanswered emails, towering piles of laundry, and the list of never-ending errands. As you wander down the trail, gaze up at the tall trees and listen to birds calling to each other, there’s a welcome shift in your mind.

On a broader nature note, “The Fullness of Time” by Cathy Haynes explores the forgotten art of marking time from nature’s daily rhythms. From early morning birdsongs to the pinkish-hue of alpenglow, the natural world invites a slow-down pace and observation. It can be a deeply absorbing experience.

I’ve lived in Central Oregon for 16 years and kept a journal of all my hikes. From Pilot Butte to Hager Mountain, it’s all documented for me to look back on as I consider new hikes and select which ones to repeat. Timing my hikes and trying to beat last summer’s record is no longer a goal. Instead, I look forward to discovering new trails, chatting with my friends along the path and enjoying a marionberry scone from Sisters Bakery on the drive home.

When customers come into the

bookstore asking for hiking books, William Sullivan’s “100 Hikes: Central Oregon Cascades” is one of the books I recommend. His book stays in my back car seat pocket year-round. HikeOregon.net’s popular books, “52 Hikes for 52 Weeks” and “Lakes of the Cascades” are some of our bestselling guidebooks. Their new book “52 More Hikes for 52 More Weeks” is the highly anticipated sequel and features hikes in the Willamette Valley, Central Cascades, and the Coast. Each hike is accompanied by a color topographical map with a handy scannable QR code.

In addition to time on the trail, there’s fishing for rainbow trout in Fall River, kayaking Hosmer Lake and biking the McKenzie River Trail through the old-growth forest and lava fields. I also enjoy the trifecta of wildflower hikes that I learned from my friend, Margarita. Lookout Mountain in Prineville kicks off the wildflower season along with gorgeous views of the Cascade peaks, followed by Iron Mountain with more than 300 species of flowering plants, and the always spectacular Canyon Creek Meadows with glimpses of mountain goats. Bring your binoculars and your trekking poles to aid in hiking down after you reach the saddle.

For those interested in plants and animals, Bend author LeeAnn Kriegh’s “The Nature of Bend” is a winner. With color pictures and fun facts, it’s a wonderful resource for the curious-minded. Learn a few flowers and birds from her

book, and you instantly feel like a local.

In the upcoming book, “Fierce Country,” Seattle author Heather Hansman shares the untold story of Georgie White, Anne LaBastille, and Dolores LaChapelle. All these women pioneered the love of outdoors with courage, undaunted spirit, and unapologetic domination in a male-centric world. The power of their fierce love for adventuring and conservation shines through, and readers may see themselves reflected in the stories.

One last book to note is “American Rambler” by Isaac Fitzgerald. He follows the path of the legendary Johnny Appleseed. The book is a blend of travel, history, and memoir. Fitzgerald explores his own past as he travels through several states, sleeping outside under the stars, making friends along the way, and sifting through the myths that surround Appleseed. It’s an entertaining book to enjoy on your next camping trip.

I hope to see you outside this summer. Whether it’s hiking to Tenas Lake with a floatie folded up in your backpack on a sunny hot day, camping at your favorite site at Paulina Lake, or climbing the Marsupials area at Smith Rock, there are so many adventures awaiting Central Oregonians. Pack snacks, water, a book, and find a quiet place off the beaten path, and be present in the moment. An analog life without distractions and social media scrolling is a lovely way to spend time no matter the season of the year.

WHAT CASSIE'S READING

“Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose It” by Brooke Averick Is it possible to find true love when going on a date makes you want to throw up?

Phoebe Berman fears the one thing she wants the most: love. Thanks to an unfortunate first kiss, crippling intimacy anxiety has plagued her since she was a teen. She has a lot going for her but can’t help but beat herself up over the one thing she can’t quite seem to figure out.

Determined to change this, she drafts up the ultimate “Guide to Losing My Virginity” checklist with the hope of finally getting laid. Suddenly, she goes from a non-existent dating life to juggling three romantic prospects at once.

“Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose It” is a brutally honest and completely relatable story for anyone who’s ever felt stuck between coming of age and coming apart.

SC SCREEN To Infinity and Beyond “Toy Story 5” and the evolution of play

By Jared Rasic

I’ll be perfectly honest with you right now. The hardest I’ve ever cried in a movie theater was at the end of “Toy Story 3.” Rewatching it to prepare for the release of “Toy Story 5,” I figured it wouldn’t wreck me as badly as it did 16 years ago. I thought I was an older, more mature man who could handle watching our favorite toys wordlessly hold hands as they await a fiery, garbage-incinerator fate.

Instead, I cried even harder.

I genuinely feel sorry for cynics who flippantly say, “I don’t watch cartoons; they’re for kids.” Yeah, some certainly are. But the best ones are aimed squarely at people who used to be kids (which, shocker, is all of us), written by honest-to-god adults, who—gasp—also remember what it was like to be small. These films are beautifully transcendent vessels for us to reconcile with the slow, incredibly fast loss of our own youth.

On the surface, the “Toy Story” franchise plays perfectly well for children. The adventures of Tom Hanks’ Sheriff Woody, Tim Allen’s spaceman Buzz Lightyear, Joan Cusack’s cowgirl Jessie and a sarcastic Mr. Potato Head, a heroic Slinky Dog, a cowardly T. rex and many more could easily just be thoughtless, cynical product placement for kids to stare at while parents think about what they’re fixing for dinner.

Instead, what Pixar and its team of magicians have crafted is a living history of modern childhood that acts as a profound marker for who we were as a species at the volatile crossover of the 20th and 21st centuries. Pixar remains the undisputed master at unearthing the sadness at the core of the human condition, and if you think that the writers and artists would have lost some of their thematic heft across five movies and 30 years, no one would blame you.

The original 1995 “Toy Story” gave us our first look at Woody as he feared being replaced by a flashier toy in Buzz Lightyear. It gave words to our anxieties about watching the world outgrow us. “Toy Story 2” showed us what toys would really fear: failing their purpose of being played with by children, which subtly mirrored our very human fears of just existing without truly living. “Toy Story 3” was unapologetically a meditation on death and pushed parents into having some very real conversations with their kids.

While “Toy Story 3” was a perfect send-off for Woody and co., with “Toy Story 4,” they smartly pivoted to having Andy, the child who played with them all these years, head off to college and pass his toys off to a little girl named Bonnie. Even as many franchise fans complained that “TS4” didn’t hold a candle to the rest of the series, the cartoon about anthropomorphic toys still managed to tell a quietly bleak fable about mental illness, a bittersweet love story and an elegiac rumination on a group of aging toys trying not to focus on the diminishing prospects of their collective futures. But, you know, for kids.

What enjoyment you take from “Toy Story 5” is largely predicated on what exactly you want from this series. “TS4” effectively finished Woody’s arc, much like the third film wrapped up Buzz’s story. So, consequently, most of our beloved legacy toys are sidelined this time around. Instead, we’re given a story where Jessie (still wonderfully voiced by Joan Cusack) takes center stage. With Andy long gone and most of the toys now lovingly possessed by eight-year-old Bonnie, the series shifts into an intimate look at what it’s like to be a little girl growing up today.

When Bonnie gets a frog-themed tablet known as a Lilypad (voiced by the always-welcome Greta Lee), she stops playing with Jessie and the other toys and immediately surrenders to the addictive glow of the screen. To the feeling of finding your friends while still suffering from crippling loneliness. The movie could’ve easily devolved into an angry anti-tech screed about inherent isolation kids feel in the digital age, especially post-pandemic. But, realistically, mega-corporation Disney would never alienate its tech-titan compatriots by pushing back against children receiving tablets before books. Instead, “Toy Story 5” pivots into a touching, grounded story about the sheer difficulty of making friends as a kid in 2026.

Does it have the same inherent power as the masterpieces that have come before? Not quite. As much as I love Jessie, changing the protagonist five films deep makes the cracks in the franchise visible for the first time. Don’t get me wrong—”Toy Story 5” is vastly superior to most of the animated films released over the last few years, but it also reveals a cynical truth: this is how the machine keeps running forever. Long after Tom Hanks and Tim Allen retire from these roles,, it’s clear how easily Pixar can just transfer these powerful life lessons onto different characters…to infinity and beyond. I can’t decide if that’s deeply depressing or somewhat comforting. Just as the toys watch the world pass them by, I felt the same passage of time while sitting in the theater. Instead of a classic Randy Newman tune over the credits, it’s a Taylor Swift song. It’s not bad, necessarily, but it served as one more stark reminder of the quiet evolution of these movies into something I one day might not recognize.

I hope to keep watching these movies as long as they continue to communicate something meaningful and as long as I can remember the kid inside me who loved playing with toys on his bedroom floor. While “Toy Story 5” might not reach the profoundly high highs of the original trilogy, it still hums with that ephemeral magic only Pixar can conjure. As we quietly age alongside Woody, there’s something remarkable about how an animated series for kids has managed to say more about mortality, obsolescence and the human condition than almost any other cinema in our lifetime.

Not bad for a bunch of cartoons.

"Toy Story 5"

Dir. Andrew Stanton Grade: B+

Playing at Regal Old Mill, McMenamins

St. Francis, Sisters Movie House, Redmond

Madras Cinema 5

SC SCREEN The Great, the Terrible and the In-Between

Best (and worst) of the year…so far: 2026 Edition

By Jared Rasic

Every July, I like to look back at the first half of the year to take the temperature of our current cinematic landscape. By this time last year, we already had the dizzying peaks of “Sinners” and “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” and the subterranean lows of “Jurassic Park: Rebirth” and “Snow White.” Will 2026 ultimately prove to be a more artistically daring year at the cinema? It’s still too early to tell. But the past six months have birthed several remarkable triumphs and hideous failures that have made sitting in the dark with a group of strangers worthwhile, or at least intermittently interesting. Here is an exceedingly non-comprehensive look at some of the best and worst of 2026 so far.

Best— “Project Hail Mary”: While the narrative is essentially just a loving, big-budget mashup of “E.T.,” “Interstellar” and “The Martian,” this nearly twoman show between Ryan Gosling and a

faceless rock alien possesses so much genuine empathy that it’s impossible to begrudge its more predictable storytelling beats. Propelled by Drew Goddard’s breezy script and the visual alchemy of Phil Lord and Chris Miller, the film makes a very strong case for why the theatrical experience remains a vital, wonderful necessity in 2026.

Worst—”Michael”: I’ve never received more hate mail in my life than I did for my negative review of this film, so let me double down and dig this ditch a little deeper. When the inevitable sequel arrives to cover the second half of Michael Jackson’s life, it will not retroactively fix this sanitized opening chapter, regardless of how unblinking and honest it is about his allegations.

“Michael” is an aggressively generic biopic given a free pass solely because the soundtrack is stacked with banger after banger. Antoine Fuqua stages the

musical numbers well and Jaafar Jackson lip-syncs and dances admirably, but you’ll gain more psychological insight into MJ’s life from a cursory glance at a Wikipedia page. If a lavishly produced music video is all you want out of a Michael Jackson biopic, more power to you.

Best—”The Sheep Detectives”: If you had told me this was one of the best movies of the year just based on the trailer, I would have said you were crazy. Yet, against all logic, this absolute marvel about a computer-animated flock of anthropomorphic sheep solving their shepherd’s murder is a hilarious, heartbreaking, emotional powerhouse that I’ve already watched three times. The vocal work from Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Chris O’Dowd and Bryan Cranston is flawless, drawing immense soul from the beautiful words of writer Craig Mazin. Two decades from now, we will speak of this film with the same reverence we reserve for the “Babe” duology.

Worst—”Post-modern horror movie parodies and satires”: The irony here is thick enough to choke on. Two of the worst movies of the year so far are “Scream 7”— the sixth sequel to a classic horror movie that brilliantly deconstructed and rebuilt the slasher genre— and “Scary Movie,” the fifth sequel to a comedy that originally parodied “Scream” by mocking those exact horror tropes. “Scream 7” has so little meat on the bone and such a fundamental misunderstanding of Wes Craven’s original that it has actively transformed into the very thing it used to mock. Meanwhile, the new “Scary Movie” is so painfully out of touch and regressive that it’s significantly less funny than the movies it attempts to spoof. It’s depressing as hell, no matter how you slice it.

Best—”Horror that takes the genre seriously”: Even for audiences who detest horror movies, I still cannot recommend watching “Obsession” and “Backrooms” highly enough. Both films take a simple premise—a wish gone wrong in “Obsession” and an endless, liminal nightmare in “Backrooms”— and infuse them with enough thematic weight to reward endless rewatches. While “Backrooms” boasts flashier, more experimental filmmaking, “Obsession” is an instant classic we’ll be dissecting for decades.

There are plenty of other bright spots scattered throughout the first half of this year. We witnessed a deeply layered, heartbreaking performance from Ralph Fiennes in “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” Callum Turner’s effortlessly charismatic turn in “Rose of Nevada,” and David Lowery’s characteristically virtuosic filmmaking in “Mother Mary” (which also features a career-best performance from Anne Hathaway). Add to that Boots Riley’s madcap vision in “I Love Boosters” and the squirmy uncomfortable morality play of “The Drama”— anchored masterfully by Zendaya and Robert Pattinson— and it becomes clear that 2026 is off to quite a solid start.

Hopefully, by December, we’ll be looking at a historic, banner year for cinema on par with 1999 or 2007, but it’s still too early to tell. Among many others, we still have Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” Fincher’s “The Adventures of Cliff Booth” and David Robert Mitchell’s “The End of Oak Street” waiting in the wings. Coming soon, I’ll take a look at the upcoming releases for the back half of 2026 and break down exactly what you should be excited to see!

NW OUTSIDE Wolf Coexistence: Compromise and Rethinking

Re-establishing the wolf population is challenged by human activity

By Sue Dougherty DVM MA DACVIM Think Wild Board President

Wolves have certainly been in the news lately! Multiple confirmed sightings of gray wolves have already been recorded this year in La Pine, Sunriver and even Bend. Many people are giddy with the idea of wolves in our nearby forest ecosystems. Yet, some people are fearful and feel this is too close to home. Education and understanding can help to narrow this gap in public opinion.

What is a Wolf’s Nature?

Wolves are extremely social animals and efficient hunters that help provide food for their pack. Yet, they are naturally shy and tend to avoid humans. Wolves live in tightly knit family groups with strong social bonds. They raise their young collectively, pups learn through observation and injured pack members are cared for by the group. Play also plays an important role in maintaining social bonds and developing skills within the pack.

Wolf History

Though we can now find limited numbers of wild wolves residing in our state, this was not always the case. Historically, bounty hunting, poisoning, trapping and shooting resulted in the elimination of wolves from most of the American northwest by the early 1900s. Wolves were reintroduced to Idaho as part of the Northern Rocky Mountain Wolf Recovery Plan in 19951996, the same reintroduction plan as in Yellowstone National Park. The first wolf found in Oregon was seen as a “disperser” after crossing the Snake River from Idaho in 1999, half a century after their human-driven extinction from the region.

Status of Wolves in Oregon

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s 2025 Wolf Report gives an overview of the state of wolf populations in Oregon. Wolves in different sections of the state have different management protections. For example, those west of Highways 395, 78 and 95 are listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act, making the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service responsible for their management. Wolves to the east are largely under state jurisdiction. All wolves in the state of Oregon are protected as a special status “game mammal.” Oregon’s wolf population is expanding westward. The state’s population in 2025 was up to 230 wolves with 23 breeding pairs. Wolf mortality numbers in 2025 were concerning, with a total of 42 known wolf deaths, 39 of which were human-related (this included 27 killed through government action and four poached).

Conflict & Coexistence

Wolf-livestock depredation happens, and indeed sheep and cattle ranchers are impacted, with 106 confirmed events in 2025. Education about the value of the wolf in the ecosystem, depredation compensation to ranchers with losses and rancher’s willingness to apply nonlethal means of wolf “control” need to be our goals in dealing with this. This is not impossible. When a depredation occurs, livestock producers must first implement “nonlethal measures” to decrease depredation before the ODFW will permit wolf “removal”

(extermination). The new bill just passed into law this spring, “1.25% for wildlife,” will be one source of funding for both coexistence and compensation.

Nonlethal livestock-wolf mitigation measures include:

• Range riders and increased human presence

• Livestock guardian dogs

• Prompt carcass removal and attractant management

• Permanent and portable electric fencing

• Improved husbandry and livestock management practices

• Protecting calving and lambing areas

• Avoiding known wolf den and rendezvous sites

• Deterrents such as fladry, alarm systems, lights, and drones

At a time when our ranchers and the wildlife of our state need more help in managing coexistence in a humane and conservation-oriented method, the Federal government has reduced and/or eliminated funding for employing biologists and rangers needed for this work, including the elimination of a full-time staff person locally despite growing wolf numbers.

The presence of wolf populations in our forests means that single transient wolves will occasionally travel close to rural, and even urban, communities as they pass through. Wolves often travel along roadways for ease of navigation and hunting.

The wolf will move on. Don’t be fearful. Be smart. Bring pets in at night. Marvel in the fact that we have these wonders of the wild close by. The coexistence problem lies not with the wolves per se, but with what humans will accept. Differing points of view each have their own deeply held, real points to make. Let’s educate each other, to learn what is at stake on all sides.

Humans have so altered the natural world that allowing displaced species to re-establish in what was once their home is made more challenging now that the wild is often closely bordered by human civilization, towns and ranches. Wolves have the native right to be here.

Balance

This next part may be controversial all on its own, but I think it deserves a moment. Some hunters feel that predators compete with them for game animals. Actually, population control of deer, by hunting, only became necessary as humans decimated predator populations. If our natural predator populations rebound, then that piece of wildlife management will need another look. Perhaps we need to adjust the number of deer and elk that are allocated to be removed by human hunters, thereby allowing the wolves and other top level predators the prey they need to thrive. This is beneficial for livestock, as top level predators are less likely to go after livestock if their natural prey is plentiful.

The effect of a healthy and balanced top level predator population will result in a healthier, balanced deer and elk population, and may improve the health of all levels of the ecosystem.

Want to help?

Volunteer and donate. Support local wildlife organizations like Think Wild, based in Bend, working to support landholders, agencies and wildlife in coexistence. Advocate for protections. Speak up for protective wildlife management policies, including the Endangered Species Act and efforts combating poaching. Join as a public viewer or provide public comment in the quarterly Deschutes County Wolf Compensation and Financial Assistance meetings.

Recreate responsibly. When hiking in the Deschutes or Ochoco National Forests or surrounding wilderness areas, keep dogs leashed and on trail, properly secure or pack out food and trash and follow permit restrictions. Drive with extra caution in the early morning and evening to prevent vehicle strikes.

Report Sightings. Help biologists at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife by accurately reporting wolf sightings or wolf signs.

O OUTSIDE BOO is Bend’s Best-Kept Secret

Bend Oregon Outrigger provides

community and Hawaiian cultural

connection in the High Desert

By Jada Olson

If you’ve walked around Old Mill or Riverbend in the summer months, you’ve probably seen the 40-foot canoes hauling up to the Healy bridge and back again. Or perhaps you’ve heard the calls of “hut” and “ho” from the riverbank and wondered who was out on the river yelling. Somehow, despite their unavoidable size and presence on the Deschutes, the Bend Oregon Outrigger club (BOO) continues to be one of Bend’s bestkept secrets.

The club today is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with approximately 30 members but started as a couple in 1991 with a vision and a love for paddling. Formed by Dave and Meg Chun, a well-known couple in the Bend paddling community and the founders of Kialoa Paddles, the club spent the early 90s paddling around Mirror Pond. BOO’s infancy was fueled mainly by women with endurance sports backgrounds, many of whom had strong ties with Hawaiʻi. Over time, the canoes began to attract some curiosity, which led to a more formal club with members, races and a tight-knit community of paddlers. Since its inception, BOO has provided an opportunity for team recreation on the river, but it’s also provided something deeper — a connection to traditional Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture.

Being so far from home, in a culture that’s far from Hawaiian, it makes sense that people with ties to the island perk up a bit when they see an outrigger canoe on the Deschutes. If you’ve ever stayed at a beachfront resort in Hawaiʻi, you might have noticed or even signed up for a sunrise paddle in these 6-person canoes. Today, it’s a popular activity for tourists, but the cultural significance goes much deeper. Outrigger canoes (OCs) have existed in Hawaiian life since the third century, when voyagers from other Pacific Islands arrived on Hawaiʻi’s shores in these sea-worthy boats with a single hull (waʻa), connector arms (ʻiako), and a float (ama) attached to the left side for stability. OCs have been used for centuries as a means of transportation, fishing, voyaging, and racing. Steeped in pre-colonial Pacific Islander history, these canoes can carry a powerful sense of home for those who’ve left the islands.

BOO member Keone Peiler, who was born and raised in Haleiwa, Hawai i, found himself back in a canoe for the first time in 20 years in the middle of Oregon. Peiler moved to Bend in 2017 and began his search for a sport that would help him tap back into his competitive side. He knew the Deschutes would play a role somehow and was considering getting into stand-up paddleboard racing. But in 2025, his son found the outrigger club on Facebook and urged him to go to their new member meeting. “That was it — right there,” Peiler said. “I’ve gotta be in the water. On the water, touching water — something.” Having paddled through his teen years in one-man OCs and on his high school’s team, Peiler recognizes the spirit present within the BOO community. “It’s kind of like back home,” Peiler said. “If you bring a good vibe, we’re welcoming and willing to help you.”

The welcoming atmosphere and appropriate cultural representation of the sport are paramount for the club’s coaches, Todd Steinbach and Marvin Balaoro. “Culture and tradition seem to be getting watered down, forgotten or misappropriated,” Steinbach said. Balaoro and Steinbach break down every element of the paddling stroke from those who know the sport best — Hawaiians, Tahitians, and Fijians — to honor and respect the craft. “There’s a surprisingly strong connection between the Pacific Northwest, Hawaiʻi, and the Pacific Islands,” Steinbach explained. “The draw and reverence of nature, the care for our waters, the care for our community — those are all commonalities.” Even for members of the club with no ties to the Pacific Islands, BOO is a welcoming force that takes even the most novice paddler under

their ʻiakos. “Paddling teaches you about yourself, and you learn about others. It puts you in a position to work with others to succeed — or to fail,” Steinbach said. “Learning how to paddle a 40-foot, 400-pound canoe with five other people and move together as one is incredible.”

According to Balaoro, the club’s next move is to level up its racing game by purchasing an ultralight canoe. “We currently have a heavier canoe that runs slower, but it feels great to beat people in a faster canoe,” Balaoro said. “When we get that ultralight and compete, we’ll be on a level playing field where we can really see where we stack up with the other teams.” But the vision doesn’t stop with securing a faster canoe. For BOO’s coaches, the goals are even higher, with the ultimate hope to bring teams to Hawaiʻi to race. When asked what coaching means to him personally, Balaoro expressed his desire to give back to the sport. “I found this sport at a time when it made a big difference in my life,” he shared. “Now is a good opportunity to give back to the sport in a way that can impact other people. It’s rewarding to see people get really into the sport and seeing them improve, as well as seeing the club grow.”

If you’ve only heard the “hut” and “ho” from Riverbend Park, you might think of the sport as noisy and maybe even a bit flashy. But within the canoe is a different scene entirely. Paddlers operate in meditative near silence. Silent entry of the blade, cascading water droplets on the river’s surface with each return for the next stroke, and repeat. Into the river together, out of the river together. Balaoro and Steinbach emphasize at least once every practice that “timing is everything.” This deeply ingrained synchronicity of the team continues even once the canoes are hauled out of the water and is visible in the ways members show up for one another inside and outside of practice. “Everyone comes to this sport looking for something, and it’s all for different reasons. And I think a lot of people are able to find that — whatever it is they’re looking for,” Balaoro said. “The sport gives back whatever somebody is looking for, without that being the intention. It’s just there.”

O OUTSIDE Bend Adventurer to Tackle Arctic Expedition

Jeska Clark has summitted mountains in North and South America, dove in oceans around the world and even attended space camp. The Arctic is next.

By Dallas Finn Calvert

Imagine dangling upside down, 200 feet in the air, unexpectedly caught in the device that’s supposed to be helping you rappel down the mountain. That’d be enough to make most people panic. Not Jeska Clark.

“This sounds so silly, but my hair was hanging down — I had longer hair then — and it got caught in my gri-gri, and then I got webbing caught in the gri-gri, so I was stuck and I was flipping upside down,” recalls Clark, 35, explaining how she was practicing self-rappelling in 2023 while living in Phoenix, Arizona, when she got caught up in her belaying device. “I flipped upside down. And I was, like, ‘Ooooohh, OK. So, I’m stuck here. It looks like I’m going to have to get out of this.’ There was no one around, and I was, like, “OK, I have to think my way out of this.’”

Thankfully, Clark, who lives in Bend, has made a study of human performance and how to deal with highstress, high-risk situations. She has a master’s degree in human systems engineering (human factors) from Arizona State University and is a human-performance specialist. Her expertise is taking lessons learned from extreme environments and applying them to everyday life, or the occasional not-so-ordinary situation, such as being caught upside down in a gri-gri.

Clark managed to insert a quick-draw clip into the mountain wall and connect it, thereby enabling her to “change the distribution of my weight” and disconnect from the gri-gri, get herself unstuck, reattach to the gri-gri, and finish rappelling down the mountain.

“When it comes to doing really challenging things, I mentally prepare myself with visualization and different types of training to not have that fear point,” she said.

Her unflappable nature no doubt partly stems from a childhood battle with severe asthma, during which she’d do nightly nebulizer treatments while watching people “do cool things” on TV and wishing she could beat the asthma to one day pursue similar adventures. Her numerous outdoor treks have contributed to her ease with stressful situations, including climbing mountains across North and South American and the Himalayas, diving in oceans around the world, and even attending space camp as part of her research into extreme environments.

“While she’s got endless credentials and amazing experience and everything that you need to make sure that you’re safe and secure and prepared, I think my favorite part is that she has a spirit of adventure that’s just so strong in her. She’s just loving every second, and she takes such joy (in adventure),” said Danica Carey, 45, who met Clark three years ago during polar training in Minnesota. The two women were part of a larger group undergoing rigorous training with acclaimed polar adventurer, Eric Larsen, and dealt with grueling, harsh conditions while learning how to prepare for polar travel.

“Jeska has one of those most amazing balances between having a very calm, knowledgeable

demeanor–she’s definitely like a steady-in-a-storm type personality — but she’s also very light-hearted, super quick with a laugh,” said Carey.

Clark and Carey will build on that camaraderie when they undertake an Arctic expedition in May 2027. Clark will lead the expedition’s team of Black adventurers as they pay homage to Matthew Henson, one of the most accomplished Arctic explorers of his time and the first African American to reach the North Pole. The team won’t follow Henson’s exact route. Instead, they’ll traverse Greenland in his honor, as Clark said it was a “significant part of his journey” to the North Pole. Depending on geopolitical situations when the expedition begins, the group will further trek to the North Pole. They’ll be pulling sleds that weigh approximately 250 pounds, carrying their food, fuel, and cameras, and trekking between 10 to 14 hours each day to cover approximately 400 miles, during which they’ll shoot footage for a documentary.

Phil Henderson, executive director of the nonprofit Full Circle Expeditions, is a luminary in the world of mountaineering and adventure. He’s summited Mt. Denali twice and lead the first all-African American team up Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2018. He does a Mt. Kilimanjaro expedition annually. In 2022, he led the first all-Black climbing team up Mount Everest. The team spent 58 days on the mountain, and seven of the team’s eight climbers summitted. Clark helped plan and coordinate the trip and its comprehensive logistics.

“When I was putting together the Everest expedition, she played a big role,” said Henderson, 63. “I was the team leader, but she was able to make a connection and talk with the team in ways and at a time where I wasn’t present.

“It’s almost like our roles are switched,” he added. “Jeska is now in a leadership role for (the Arctic) team, and I just try and help coach her through that process of putting together the team and the logistics and the planning. I’m more of a sounding board for her.”

Saveria Tilden, founder of Bend’s AdventurUs, an organization that creates inclusive adventure travel experiences for women, said Clark is an inspiring role model. AdventurUs hosted Clark earlier this year

to discuss her Arctic expedition as part of its “Empowering Women Through Adventure” speaker series.

“I think, for me, representation is so important because if you don’t see it, you can’t imagine it,” said Tilden. “I think in any industry, and in any field, when little girls grow up and they see women doing these awesome things, it opens their eyes, like ‘Oh, I could do that, too.’ I think representation is incredibly important, and I think telling the stories and being seen is also incredibly important to inspire other people.”

Clark moved to Bend two years ago from Phoenix with her now-husband, Stephan Jeanes, 38, an energy distribution consultant who she met on a plane while traveling from Atlanta to Phoenix during the Covid pandemic. She got her undergraduate degree in communications at ASU with a minor in Arabic, intending to go into the Peace Corps. She fenced for ASU on scholarship and joined the Arizona Outdoors club.

“That’s when I got into rock climbing and backpacking and a lot of the sports that I do now. From there, that kind of took over my life. After college, I immediately section-hiked the Appalachian Trail, from Georgia to Virginia,” she recalls. “After that, I had different jobs in different sectors, but the human performance part, or being in extreme environments, just kind of kept coming up, so I decided, ‘You know what? Let’s do bigger trips and let’s have more impactful trips to be able to help people.’”

That led her back into the classroom to get her master’s degree and into extreme environments as part of her research. She’s fascinated with the psychological and physiological effects of those environments on humans and how to help people weather potentially stressful everyday conditions.nShe’ll employ the systematic approach when helping her team prepare for the Arctic expedition, for which she’s currently working on raising funds and securing sponsors through the nonprofit Full Circle Expeditions. The Arctic team members have individual training they perform, and the group has undergone polar training.

“Those entail just getting your systems down. It’s really important to get your systems dialed out, as some would say,” Clark said. “Everything from washing your face, if you want to do that, to eating food or drinking water or using the bathroom can be susceptible to frostbite, right? So even your layering system… you can’t sweat too much because then you’ll get too cold. You have to have your systems down, like what layering system works. Do I need three base layers? Do I need six? Do I need one? Everybody’s slightly different, depending on personal preference and whether you run hot or cold.”

Processes. Systems. Composure. All are vital on an adventure as potentially harrowing as an Arctic expedition, as is having the positive attitude that you can weather anything, Clark said.

OUTSIDE Welcome to Gamblertown

Thousands of self-described “Gamblers” descended on Madras on the weekend of June 26 for the 13th annual Gambler 500

By Eli Zatz

Wind whips through the dry field as large plumes of dust flee spinning tires. The combination of wind and the sound of screaming two-stroke motors sets the ambience for the 2026 OG Gambler 500 weekend. What started out as a 13-person bachelor party in the Oregon woods has grown into the sweeping event that it is today, with more than 5,000 participants taking to the backroads of Central Oregon for a weekend of chaos, community and conservation.

While the Gambler began as a pointto-point race in $500 cars, the event has become something far different. While racing is still offered in the form of HooptieX, an open entry rally series, the Gambler 500 has shifted its focus to conservation and cleanup efforts. Founder Tate Morgan recognized early on that the Gambler needed to give back to the lands that its participants enjoyed, and thus began development on the Sons of Smokey. Now a registered nonprofit, Sons allows users to report and locate illegal dumps of trash, marking them and sharing them to the broader community of cleanup aficionados. Integrated fully into the Gambler ecosystem, the Sons of Smokey and its community-driven cleanup goal is now a centerpiece of the event.

“It’s basically a psyop to make cleaning up trash fun — and it’s working,” says Cory Ferris, as his plaid-wrapped Dodge Dakota bounces along a rarely used fire road. He’d driven over 12 hours from Columbia Falls, Montana, the day before to make it to Madras in time to begin the trash hunt. Navigating with the aid of Sons of Smokey, Ferris makes a sharp left onto a steep grade, nearing the theoretical location of an abandoned Civic. It’s Ferris and his cousin Ryan Travis’s eighth year at the OG Gambler, the duo making the almost annual pilgrimage since 2018. Over the years, they’ve made lifelong friends at these events. For Ferris it’s this camaraderie in conjunction with the challenge and joy of the weekend that keeps him coming back for more.

Upon retrieval, Ferris leads his twocar convoy back to basecamp, or Gamblertown, as it is known to the thousands who descend upon the dirt lot. Ferris’s heap of recovered junk sits on top of a stand-alone truck bed while a dilapidated couch totters above Travis’s Crown Victoria. The two rumble to a stop next to a googley-eyed excavator, its bucket chomping like a giant mouth as it crushes the remnants of vehicles and household trash into a pulp.

Hundreds of volunteers wander about Gamblertown, yet the highest concentration has positioned themselves near the dumping grounds. These volunteers help to deal with the winding line of cars waiting to dump their loads, disposing of garbage of all sorts with NASCAR crew-like efficiency. With Ferris’s load dumped, the Dakota bumps off deep into the growing field of camps and into the fray.

The chaos of Gamblertown is really indescribable. It’s an eclectic mix of people, vehicles and setups, with some groups establishing impromptu hostels or providing services to fellow Gamblers. It’s a city all unto itself.

On the edge of the camp just past the entrance, heavy metal reverberates out of flashing speaker stands. A large sign advertising “The World’s Worst Ramen Shop” announces the presence of Trish Laban and Geremy Condra. The two are in their fifth year of OG Gambler attendance, and couldn’t be happier with their business model. Delineated in small print next to the large sign is a small bit of text that reads “Free.” While The World’s Worst Ramen Shop may be in the red financially, they are deep within the green karmatically.

Across the camp are enclaves like this — but the entropic energy of Gamblertown is best exhibited in the dusty streets cutting through the chaos. It’s like a visual playground, with ridiculous displays of debauchery all around. Bitter malort is sprayed into festivalgoers’ mouths out of a flamethrower-esque device while men sporting megaphones

by

thrives on community, conservation and cleanup efforts

cheer frantically for the absurd vehicles rolling through town. Go-karts tear across the HooptieX course, kicking up dust, their engines suffocating in the resulting cloud, the misfiring reverberating through the air. Behind it all, the excavator continues to crush trash as crews pile it on by the truckload.

It’s in this dichotomy where the Gambler earns its charm. The coalition of people from all walks of life uniting

around a shared love of cars and conservation is a unique event. In a heavily polarized world, the unification of self-described rednecks, heart surgeons, and granola “hippies” is something worth celebrating. As one gambler said, “We’re all here because we love shi—y cars,” — and there’s certainly enough of these cars to go around.

By Nic Moye

Artist Showcase Celebrates Sisters Quilt Week

A free four-night reception highlights local art

Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Sisters for Quilt Week

July 7-10 and the annual Outdoor Quilt Show on July 11. The Sisters gallery store, Makin’ it Local which showcases paintings, photography, fine crafts, jewelry, ceramics and other artwork, is hosting four artist receptions and unveiling new artwork created especially for Quilt Week. Makin’ it Local is extending the celebration beyond quilts by showcasing artists whose work reflects the same appreciation for color, pattern, craftsmanship and storytelling.

The festivities, which are free and open to the public, kick off Tuesday, July 7 with Jennifer O’Reilly. She’s an acrylic painter known for her whimsical style and flowing interpretations of Oregon landscapes and the natural world. Her work features vivid colors and images representing the Pacific Northwest. Some of her new fine art prints will be on display during the event.

On Wednesday, July 8, Susan Porteous will be on hand to talk about her quilt-inspired letterpress prints. The artist owns Green Bird Press, which specializes in a modem, minimalist approach to design.

July 9 celebrates the reverse-enameled painted fused glass art of Cheryl Chapman. She uses finely powdered glass enamels mixed with water or oilbased mediums to paint onto glass, which are then fired multiple times. Her designs are influenced by nature and whimsy. Chapman will unveil three new fine art prints, which were created specifically for Quilt Show Week, at Makin’ it Local.

Then on Friday, July 10, six-time Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show poster artist, Kathy Deggendorfer, will unveil five new fine art prints she created for Quilt Show Week. Her work features with layered color, pattern and

movement. She created posters for the Quilt Show in 2007, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2019 and 2025. Her art has also been used in quilting fabric collections.

The afternoon receptions are an opportunity to mingle with the artists and enjoy complimentary wine and light hors d’oeuvres.

“Quilt Week is about bringing people together through creativity,” Makin’ it Local Owner Myrna Dow said in a news release. “Whether you’ve traveled across the country for Quilt Week or you call Central Oregon home, these receptions offer a chance to meet remarkable Oregon artists, hear the stories behind their work, and discover artwork that celebrates the beauty and spirit of our state. We hope our gallery becomes a gathering place where locals and visitors connect through art, conversation, and community.”

The Sisters Quilt Show, which features more than 1,000 quilts hung outside businesses, has been going strong for more than half a century, attracting more than 10,000 tourists worldwide. Part of its success comes from the sense of shared interests and community. This year the event will shine a spotlight on many of the quilting guilds from around Oregon.

Quilt Week Artist Receptions Tue-Fri, July 7-10, 3-5:30pm Makin’ It Local 281 W Cascade Ave, Sisters makinitlocal.com/blogs/news/quilt-week-insisters-just-got-a-whole-lot-more-artsy-anda-little-more-delicious Free

Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show Sat, July 11 9am-4pm Downtown Sisters soqs.org/ Free

By Nic Moye

Protecting Our River that Fish, Plants and Wildlife Need to Thrive

Volunteers are wanted for the 30th annual Deschutes River cleanup

Each year, the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council organizes volunteers to clean out the river and riverbanks at six different sites. Last year, about 300 volunteers removed approximately 2,500 pounds of garbage and invasive weeds.

The Watershed Council’s Education and Development Director Kolleen Yake says the populari ty of the river is taking a toll.

“There’s been a devastating amount of stream bank degradation caused by people and dogs getting in and out of the river, destroying vegetation and then, when there’s no vegetation, the soils are volcanic and highly erosive, so they just slide right into the water creating turbidity, which leads to sedimentation.” Yake says the public should use hardened platforms designed for people to access the river.

The Watershed Council is also concerned with the amount of sunscreen washing into the river. The Bend Park and Recreation District says more than 250,000 people float the river in tubes, paddleboards, kayaks and other floatation devices between Memorial and Labor Days.

“That’s a lot of sunscreen,” Yake says. “Most people are likely not using reef-safe sunscreen, so there is significant impact from the chemicals in sunscreen to fish and fish eggs and aquatic insects. That’s something we’re looking into…and (we) want people to start to choose reef safe sunscreen or put it on an hour before rather than two minutes before getting in the river.”

This is the 30th year for the Deschutes River Cleanup at Farewell Bend Park, Riverbend Park, First Street Trail, LaPine State Park, Sunriver and Tumalo State Park which will be July 11. Volunteers are needed to walk along the banks picking up trash and pulling invasive weeds as well as divers and paddlers to enter the river collecting garbage. Yake says more paddlers are needed as well as volunteers at Tumalo and LaPine State Parks.

This year, crews will clean Mirror Pond as well, for the first time in 15 years. “The focus will be along the boardwalk area where we’ve heard the bulk of the garbage ends up,” Yake explains.

ing a big pack of beer that might end up in the river. Having something to secure your sunglasses so they don’t end up in the river. Probably not bringing your cell phone. So just thinking about your recreation choices with regards to not littering and with regards to impact to the river or the stream bank or the trail.”

Deschutes River Cleanup Sat, July 11 9am-1pm Six locations Register: upperdeschuteswatershedcouncil. org/deschutes-river-cleanup/

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SMOKE SIGNALS

Lawyers, Guns and Ganja: It’s Complicated Cannabis consumption and gun ownership

By Josh Jardine

Americans love their firearms, and I do mean love. The Pew Research Center estimates about one third of Americans - 107 million - personally own a firearm, and four in 10 live in a household with a firearm. Over 70% say they do so for protection, while about a third say it’s for hunting or target practice.

Americans also love their cannabis, with Pew Research estimating about 23% of adults in America — 60 to 65 million — used cannabis at some point in 2025. That number has been rising over the past decade, as legalization has gained traction and over 50% of Americans now live in states that have Adult Use cannabis programs.

Those two groups intersect, but gun ownership and cannabis consumption do not, at least according to Federal law. In mid June, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a ruling which will lead to changes. But for now, legal gun ownership means not using cannabis, or doing what many do, and lie about it.

The subject of guns are a — sorry — loaded topic, and I’m not going to get into questions regarding if there are too many guns (there are), if there are not enough regulations and restrictions on ownership (there are not), and if said ownership plays a role in our our world record level gun violence and mass shootings (duh.) And no, you should not get high and go shooting, same as if you were drinking alcohol. We’re limiting this to what we hope are responsible cannabis users legally purchasing and owning a firearm.

In Oregon, there are no state laws prohibiting an adult who uses cannabis, medically or recreationally, from owning a firearm. But the Feds feel differently, seeing as how Cannabis is still a Schedule I drug for all Recreational users. (Schedule III currently only applies to the Medical side of things, and a few very FDA-approved products.)

Things get thorny when you purchase a firearm, as you are required to complete Form 4473 for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

As Romano Law explains, “...On that form, the purchaser of a firearm is required to answer the question, ‘Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?’ Anyone

using cannabis for any reason (medical or recreational) would have to answer this question, ‘Yes,’ because marijuana use is not allowed for any reason under Federal law. Therefore, an OMMP cardholder attempting to purchase a firearm would almost certainly be denied in their attempt to purchase a firearm.”

The American Civil Liberties Union was one of the groups that represented Ali Hemani, a Texas man (aka Florida Man lite) who was charged in 2023 under the Federal Gun Control Act, which the ACLU explains, “makes it a felony for someone who is an “unlawful user of” or “addicted to” a controlled substance to possess a firearm. Hemani was charged under this statute as an “unlawful user” based on his use of marijuana and the fact that he owned a firearm that was safely secured in his home.”

The Supreme Court said, “yeah, nah,” in a unanimous 9 to 0 decision that determined the law is unconstitutional.

As NPR wrote: “...Justice Neil Gorsuch stressed that the ruling was extremely limited, in part because marijuana use has become so ubiquitous, widely accepted and is now legal to one degree or another in 40 states..” and added “..the only thing before the court is the government’s “ambitious theory” that could “automatically strip Mr. Hemani of his Second Amendment right to own a gun because he uses marijuana a few times a week.”

The lying about cannabis use when buying a gun can now cease and desist, as some of my biggest stoner friends are also (now) legal gun owners. Some work in the regulated cannabis industry, which is prohibited from banking, making it an all cash industry, which is really attractive to criminals with — that’s right — guns. All these aforementioned friends had to lie in order to obtain equal footing.

No matter your feelings on the 2nd Amendment, we can all agree cannabis use should not turn legal gun owners into felons.

DIVORCE DOULA UNDERSTANDING THE IDENTITY TRANSFORMATION THAT TAKES PLACE DURING A DIVORCE

By Natasha Bacca

We know how to recognize a rite of passage. We throw baby showers for new parents. We celebrate graduations. We hold weddings. We mark retirements. Across cultures and throughout history, communities have created rituals to acknowledge life’s major transitions and to support people through them.

We understand that these transitions reshape identity. Yet one of the most profound transformations many adults will ever experience receives almost none of this recognition. Divorce.

After navigating my own divorce, I became aware of what was missing from the conversation. Everyone asked about the legal process. Few people seemed to understand the identity transformation taking place. The experience left me wondering whether divorce had more in common with other rites of passage than with the bureaucratic process we often reduce it to. Despite affecting nearly every aspect of a person’s life — relationships, finances, housing, parenting, social circles, identity, and future plans — divorce is often treated as little more than a legal event. We focus on paperwork, court dates, asset division and logistics. We ask whether the settlement is finalized. We ask who got the house. We ask about custody arrangements.

Rarely do we ask who the person is becoming. For many people, divorce is the first time they seriously question the assumptions that shaped their adult lives. They begin asking difficult questions:

Who am I outside this relationship?

What do I actually want?

What values are truly mine?

What have I sacrificed in order to belong?

These are not legal questions. They are questions of identity.

Anthropologists have long observed that rites of passage often contain three stages: separation, transition and reintegration. First, a person leaves behind an old role. Then comes a period of uncertainty and disorientation. Finally, they emerge with a new identity and place within the community. Divorce follows a remarkably similar pattern. The separation itself is often obvious. The transition period, however, is where much of the real work occurs.

Old assumptions dissolve. Certainties disappear. Future plans are rewritten. The person who enters this stage often does not yet know who they will become on the other side.

Unlike many traditional rites of passage, there are few cultural structures to support the journey. In many communities, weddings are celebrated publicly while divorces are hidden. New parents receive meals, gifts and encouragement. People navigating divorce are often expected to continue working, parenting, managing households and making major legal decisions while simultaneously grieving the collapse of a life they once imagined.

The emotional and psychological transformation remains largely invisible. This absence of recognition can deepen the sense of isolation many people already feel.

Divorce is often framed as failure. Yet for many individuals, it is an act of profound courage. Sometimes it requires acknowledging that a relationship no longer supports growth. Sometimes it requires confronting long-standing patterns of self-abandonment.

Sometimes it requires choosing authenticity over expectation. These choices are rarely easy. They often challenge family traditions, religious beliefs, cultural norms and deeply rooted ideas about what a successful life is supposed to look like.

Moving against those expectations can feel frightening. It can also be transformative.

The people who emerge from divorce are often not simply single versions of their former selves. They are individuals who have navigated grief, uncertainty, loss and reinvention. It is a rite of passage.

What if we acknowledged divorce as a significant life transition worthy of support, community and ritual? What if we understood that the end of a marriage is not merely a relationship ending, but an identity evolving? It is the beginning of themselves.

About the Author: Natasha Bacca is a divorce doula, certified high-conflict divorce coach, mediator, educator and author based in Bend, Oregon.

Grand Prix Show & Dinner Saturday 7/11 4:30 PM

AWAKENING YOUR INNER HERO

A COLUMN TO HELP LOCALS LIVE A KINDER AND MORE COURAGEOUS LIFE

By Burt Gershater

Extremely Ordinary Miracles

Relax.

I know my title, EXTREMELY ORDINARY MIRACLES, is a contradiction in terms, an oxymoron, a paradox, an incongruity.

I know what a miracle is.

Trust me for a few more minutes.

Some common definitions of miracle are: an event caused by a deity that suspends the ordinary course of nature or a highly improbable, wonderful event. But there are also everyday miracles.

The root of the word miracle is miraculum, which translates “to wonder,” or “to marvel at.” This is the main point of today’s message. A little earlier today my family was having breakfast at Sparrow Bakery, our favorite breakfast restaurant in Bend. Why? For a few reasons, like their warm, friendly service, wonderful menu, consistently delicious food…but THE main reason for it rising to the top is their ambrosial Ocean Rolls. So you don’t have to look it up on your phone (like I just did), ambrosial means so delicious it is fit for the gods. That’s heavy duty but it is true. Ocean Rolls are fit for the gods. It was my birthday and of course, I wanted Ocean Rolls for my family. What’s an 80th birthday breakfast party without them. I ordered last, “Five Ocean Rolls, please.”

The young woman wrinkled up her face, paused and reluctantly said, “Sorry, we just ran out. There are more, baking in the oven.

“When will they be ready?” I asked.

“About a half hour,” she responded.

When I told her why we were there, for my 80th birthday breakfast and Ocean Rolls, she kindly offered a free substitute pastry. I was touched. Then I headed back to our table to share the sad news.

Now, back to before my Ocean Roll order…

I was telling my family why 80 years old didn’t seem that old to me. I told them that at the Larkspur gym where Wendy and I work out, I made two new 95-year-old buddies who exercise there regularly. They’re my new role models and I want to follow their steady, seemingly ageless journeys.

And then, on my way back to our table, I hear my name being called out, “Burt, Burt.” I see someone waving his hands at me. Who is it? You guessed it. It’s Fred, one of my 95-year-old buddies, eating breakfast with his wife!?!?

What are the odds of that happening in a town of roughly 110,000 people with at least 100 places to order a nice breakfast? Fred!! My whole family surrounded his table and told Fred we were just talking about him. None of us could quite believe it, but we all were in awe at our statistically improbable good fortune.

Maybe that’s not an ordinary miracle, but here are many that are: fluttering butterflies and dancing hummingbirds. Tiny seeds that grow into breathtakingly beautiful flowers or quarter-inch seeds that grow for five thousand years! Our young grandchildren are already wiser than we are in many ways, and we notice it and tell them. Learning to finally end destructive family patterns that have lingered for generations. And teaching others how to do it, too. Yes, we can all give it a shot! One step at a time.

Our steady hearts that beat roughly 100,000 times a day without us even thinking about it. And cool doctors who have learned how to replace our broken ones…not that many years ago.

And the sun rising every single morning for nearly five billion years.

The most important lesson of this Ordinary Miracles riff is to remind us to experience these miracles daily and realize we can actually create them, too. And to allow ourselves to enter this state of awe every day!

Pebbles make a mountain,

Raindrops make a sea,

One day at a time

Change begins with you and me, Ordinary miracles

Happen all around,

Just by giving and receiving

Comes belonging and believing,

Every sun that rises

Never rose before,

Each new day leads the way.

Through a different door

And we can all be quiet heroes

Living quiet days

Walking through the world

Changing it in quiet ways

(Ordinary Miracles, made popular by Barbara Streisand)

You are a miracle!

—Burt Gershater is a local counselor, leadership trainer, speaker and writer. He can be reached at burt@burtgershater.com.

TAKE ME HOME

By Ricky Baker, Broker REMAX Key Properties

Bend’s Golf Real Estate Holds Its Ground

Bend has always attracted people chasing a certain kind of life.

It is the kind of place where the landscape sets the terms and people arrange their lives around it. Golf belongs here for exactly that reason, and the market is paying attention: participation has grown 41 percent nationally over the past six years, now approaching 50 million players. Homes in golf communities command a 15—25 percent appreciation premium over comparable luxury properties nationwide. Buyers aren’t just purchasing a round of golf. They’re purchasing a lifestyle that has high potential for a profitable return.

The region offers more than 25 public and private golf courses, many woven directly into residential communities. Perhaps the crown jewel, albeit within a competitive space, is Juniper Preserve, formerly known as Pronghorn Resort, where I operate the real estate sales office. It is truly special, with two side-by-side Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio designed courses. Juniper Preserve earned the #18 spot on Golf Digest’s “America’s Best Golf Resorts” in 2025. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course ranks 42nd on Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses,” and consistently places in the Pacific Northwest’s top 10. For golf enthusiasts, that puts Bend on a very short list. These are distinctions that don’t get replicated easily.

Two forces are reshaping the luxury market right now, and both are pointing in the same direction.

First, buyers are returning to gated communities. Not out of necessity, but because they get security, amenities, built-in community and in the case

of Juniper Resort, space to breathe and room to roam. Second, many of those buyers are choosing to build rather than buy turnkey. They want a home that reflects who they are, not who lived there before. That shift makes lot inventory as valuable as finished product and at Juniper Preserve, the options are extraordinary: lava rock fairway parcels, ridge-top homesites with unobstructed Cascade views. The land here doesn’t just support a home. It becomes part of it.

The numbers are steady, and in this environment, steady is strong.

Bend’s luxury tier (the $1M+ segment) is showing active listings and sales volume up year-over-year. Prices have held. Desirable properties are still moving with conviction. Buyers have more room to breathe than they did during the peak frenzy, but don’t confuse breathing room with softness. The fundamentals are intact. What’s shifted is the pace, not the direction.

What drives all of this, ultimately, is place.

People don’t move to Bend for a tax strategy or a spreadsheet outcome. They move because something about the light, the volcanic rock underfoot, the mountains on the horizon and the way the air smells in June makes them feel like they’ve found the life they’ve been searching for.

Several of the world’s great course designers built masterful golf courses here in Bend. That tells you a lot. To browse the available homes in Juniper Preserve, visit www.skylinerhomes. com.

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

CANCER (June 21-July 22): There are phases when the cosmic energies and I urge you to put others first—even tend to their pain before you tend to your own. But this isn’t one of those times. Right now, sacrificing yourself for the sake of others would obstruct the flow of righteous grace into your life. So then what is the most soul-honoring path available? Here’s what I think: Summon your

tence. So, are you ready for a bit of world-making erotic play? The current astrological indicators say yes, you are.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A common obstacle to healthy intimacy is the belief that a beloved ally should automatically know what you need, without you saying a word. I used to suffer from this delusion myself and worked hard to dissolve it. I no longer unconsciously assume that my companions are so attuned to me that they can always intuit my desires. But I know this bad idea feels romantic to many people, even though it can sabotage even the most promising bond. In the weeks ahead, Capricorn, I invite you to starve this fantasy. Your intimate world is ripe for a fresh infusion of lucid, straightforward honesty.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. Your next few weeks will be sponsored by CoffeeBeer, the paradoxical elixir that both pumps up your energy and decompresses your defenses. You will be an exemplary role model for this innovative product because you will epitomize what occurs when a sensitive soul gets excited and mellows out at the same time. I also expect you will soon be exploring intriguing opportunities that become available to you because of your supercharged calm. Fortunately, you don’t need to drink actual coffee and beer together to make this happen. The cosmic forces will

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Finish this sentence, Pisces: “The one thing that really keeps me from being myself is _______.” Is it someone’s opinion, an old story about who you are, a fear of loss, a habit of over-pleasing, a secret shame, or a belief that you’re “too much” or “not enough”? Whatever first pops into your mind is probably closest to the truth. Here’s your next step: Loosen the grip of this stressor by even just 20 percent. I bet your real self will feel relaxed enough to bloom

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Archaeologists studying ancient wells have discovered that some weren't finished in a single effort. Communities might dig to the current water table, use the well for years, then probe further down when water levels dropped or needs increased. This is a useful metaphor for you, Aries. As of yet, you don't have the ability or tools to reach the deepest layers you aspire to reach. My counsel is to go as far as you can now and gather what you find there. Later, when you're readier, you will build on what has

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The gloom wing of astrology is exhausting. The superstition that Mercury retrograde causes scrambled messages and dire mix-ups is dull and misguided. The planet’s apparent backward motion, which is happening right now, shows up about three times every year like clockwork. It's perfectly normal! In my view, Mercury retrograde isn’t threatening unless you obsess on the idea that it is, in which case, yes, your payment might go astray, and a friend may misunderstand you. But if cultivating relaxed clarity is more fun and productive for you than coping with fearful tension, treat the time between now and July 23 as a rich opportunity to refine, deepen, and upgrade

You Gemini readers have decreed that I must halt all musings about maddening, riddle-drenched ambiguity. You’ve delivered the message to me that you’re tired of wrestling with enigmas wrapped in paradoxes. Straightforward, plainspoken factualness is what you want. Well, OK. (Please remember that I don’t make this stuff up; I simply channel cosmic omens.) Maybe I’ll start obeying your orders next time. But first, I will advise you: 1. Unexpected gifts are coming from people and situations in transition. 2. Tough but friendly interventions will nudge you toward healthy course corrections. 3. Mysterious assistance is on its way.

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle Difficulty

Level

Puzzle for the week of June 29, 2026 Difficulty Level:

Puzzle for the week of June 29, 2026

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Remember, remember always, that all _________ especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt We’re Local! Questions, comments or suggestions for our local puzzle guru? Email Pearl Stark at pearl@bendsource.com © Pearl Stark mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters F U S I O N D A Y exactly once.

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters exactly once. FUSION DAY

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters F U S I O N D A Y exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: “Remember, remember always, that all especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Answer for the week of June 22, 2026

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will “Remember, remember always, that all especially, immigrants and revolutionists.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Answer for the week of June 22, 2026

N S R Y I G P E N E G P S R I A Y Y S P N I A E R G I R A G E Y S N P S P R E N G A Y I E A Y I R S P G N G I N Y A P R E S

"Summer is come, for every spray now springs." — Henry Howard

"Summer is come, for every spray now springs." - Henry Howard

© Pearl Stark

GET TICKETS NOW FOR THE NIGHT GLOW!

FRIDAY, JULY 25TH TO SUNDAY, JULY 27TH

IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY. YOU DESERVE TRUTH.

If you feel that the city has a spending problem or does not share your priorities, you need to check out this website.

REMIND THE CITY WHO THEY WORK FOR.

Contact your council members, share the findings with your neighbors, and demand the transparency Bend deserves.

FOUR AREAS OF INVESTIGATION - EXPLORE THE EVIDENCE

# 1 UNSUSTAINABLE BUDGET - KEY FINDING

The current budget messaging says it is not sustainable, but it is a manufactured “crisis.” The city ‘s ulterior motive is to raise more revenue to fund new projects and programs.

projects

#2 MISLEADING CLAIMS KEY FINDING

The city has used errors and failures in messaging to justify new fees or fee increases.

This new revenue frees up some of the historical revenue sources for new projects and programs., This is called a bait-and switch.

#3 CITY VS COMMUNITY PRIORITIES —KEY FINDING

The city focuses on projects and programs which meet the city’s priorities instead of the community’s priorities.

The city achieves their priorities by practicing very poor community engagement combined with strong public relations campaigns.

#4 LIBRARY OF HOT TOPICS

A collection of “case studies” and “editorials” on a large variety of topics.

THE VOTES HAVE BEEN COUNTED AND THE WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN OUR MOST ANTICIPATED ISSUE OF THE YEAR!

The Best of Central Oregon will feature the best “Amongst the Stars” as by selected by the readers. This issue will be full of great profiles, stories and the biggest summer news!

AD DEADLINE: AUG 5 ON STANDS: AUG 13

DON’T MISS THE BIGGEST ISSUE OF THE YEAR! RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!

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BROADWAY UNDER THE STARS

The Tony Award-Winning Musical Comedy by Mel Brooks Coming to Drake Park 14 & 15, 2026 DOORS AT 6PM SHOW AT 7PM