the Source June 11, 2026

CELEBRATE DAD WITH A DECADENT BRUNCH BUFFET AT SUNRIVER RESORT SUNDAY, JUNE 21

This Father’s Day, give Dad a day worth celebrating at Sunriver Resort. Treat Dad to our annual Father’s Day Brunch at Lodge Kitchen, featuring a Bloody Mary bar, BBQ favorites, an omelet station, carving station, and decadent desserts. After brunch, explore miles of scenic bike trails, paddle the Deschutes, play a round of golf, or simply soak in the beauty of Central Oregon together. Great food, unforgettable experiences, and quality time with Dad—it all happens at Sunriver Resort.

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EDITOR’S NOTE:

Reporter Peter Madsen first met Justin Alderman at a journalism conference in Portland last year. Alderman made an impression with his dedication to hold government officials accountable in a small town where they may not be used to the scrutiny. He recently made news himself when the rural fire district in Alfalfa tried to restrict public access during the time Alderman was investigating them. We were intrigued by the determination of this reporter who refuses to back down.

Trying to cross a roundabout on foot can be daunting, even more so for a person who’s sight impaired. Reporter Clayton Franke visited the workshop of a man making models of local roundabouts, an intriguing idea meant to help the blind. Clayton also spent a morning walking along a busy street with a blind woman and her seeing eye dog to get a deeper understanding of the challenges she faces in navigating the city on foot.

When news broke about multiple members of the Sheriff’s swat team being placed on administrative leave, investigative reporter Peter Madsen’s phone began lighting up as sources reached out to fill him in on the drama. His article reflects what he’s been able to confirm to date, but he continues investigating the situation and will have more to come.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

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Letters

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.

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RODEO SEASON IN CENTRAL OREGON

We’re coming up on my least favorite season in Central Oregon: rodeo season. What I find so disturbing is the contradiction. Local news outlets like KTVZ and Central Oregon Daily regularly promote animal welfare — helping pets find homes, celebrating kindness toward animals — then turn around and promote or even sponsor rodeos, where violence toward animals is normalized as entertainment.

We are a community that prides itself on loving animals. And yet, we collectively look away when the animals being harmed are prey animals: cows, calves, bulls, steers and horses. Their suffering is built into rodeo itself.

If you consider yourself an animal lover, I urge you to look — really look. Watch footage of calf roping, where baby calves are chased, clotheslined, slammed to the ground and restrained. Watch a calf scramble, where terrified young animals are pursued by screaming children in a loud, chaotic arena. Or simply search “rodeo animal abuse.” What you’ll find is not tradition or sport — it’s fear, distress, and injury.

It’s heartbreaking and deeply confounding that these public displays of animal abuse are still happening in 2026. We need to stop buying into Wild West mythology, rodeo propaganda, and the excuse of “tradition” to justify cruelty.

And yes, this includes institutions like St. Charles Health System and our local news outlets, Central Oregon Daily and KTVZ, which sponsor these events. If we truly believe in health, compassion and community well-being, we cannot continue to support industries built on animal suffering. It’s time we align our values with our actions.

—Ruby Cummings

A CHALLENGE TO BEND’S COLLECTIVE TWOWHEELED CONSCIOUSNESS

Ah, yes! The sweet, intoxicating scent of pristine spring soil crunching under my knobby tires as I bask in the earliest, most unhinged mountain bike season in Bend’s history. Perfect weather, hero dirt and hordes of slavering bike heathens fleeing reality to flock toward our frosted high-desert trails. Bliss. Pure, chemical-free, twowheeled nirvana.

But hark! What is this I hear? The impossible-to-ignore mechanical whine whirring up my backside? It’s

the digital scream of an e-MTB motor, buzzing like a rabid robotic hornet just moments after I passed a massive, screamingly obvious NO E-BIKES sign.

Now, look — I am no holy man, nor am I anti-electricity. I have ridden the lightning; those motorized steeds are a goddamn riot. But we as a community — nay, as a wild, civilized society — must hold ourselves to a higher standard than absolute, self-indulgent anarchy. When local enforcement is toothless and the bureaucratic regime is hopelessly out of touch, the burden of sanity falls entirely upon our own sweaty, beer-soaked shoulders.

That nagging voice in the back of your skull needling you? The one your elaborate mental gymnastics try to drown out? It’s there because you are, in fact, guilty. The rules exist so we don’t collectively torpedo the golden goose into the pavement.

So, I issue a challenge to the collective, chaotic consciousness of Bend: rise to the occasion. Ride your electric spaceships where they are legally sanctioned and check your blatant, middle-finger defiance at the trailhead. If the authorities won’t police us, we must police our own damn selves. Respect each other, respect the sacred dirt and respect the rules. We are all in this freak show together, so do your part, keep Bend weird and let’s keep this town from careening into the abyss of self-indulgence and chaos.

—Barry Wicks

IN RESPONSE TO OILING GOOSE EGGS

Public, we have way too many geese in our community. They are disrupting natural wildlife here, along with aggressive behavior towards humans and animals. There simply isn’t enough food or room to keep our river and shores healthy. Removing their eggs is the way to mitigate overpopulation and protect our environment. Plain and simple. I fully support Bend Parks and Rec in oiling eggs. Thank you Bend Parks and Rec team for keeping our parks safe and clean! You’re the best!

—Julia Gonser

IN RESPONSE TO RECENT LETTERS REGARDING THE OILING OF GOOSE EGGS AS A MEANS OF POPULATION CONTROL

Please remember that the option was the lesser evil. In 2010 our community euthanized 109 geese via carbon dioxide and fed the remains to the

local homeless population. Just because an action is permitted by government beuracracy does not necessarily make an act ethical or moral only legal.

The resulting public backlash in 2011 prompted BPRD to exclusively use non-lethal population control methods to manage flocks at local spaces like Drake and Discovery Park. This included relocation and oiling eggs.

The gosling may be cute but they produce a lot of crap!

—Justin Gottlieb

THE BCD

As inferred in a Source editorial on May 14, 2026, the Bend core area urban renewal district today is a disorganized failure. One factor is there seems to be an overemphasis on the small Bend Central District area between Greenwood and Franklin, and 3rd Street and the railroad. Consider for example, the amount of money the city has spent there on 2nd Street and on buying property.

Significantly many of the businesses in this area are opposed to changing its character or selling their land for redevelopment. (Most redevelopment districts are based on very low property values and depressed neighborhoods, not the case here). Still, they seem to want five-story buildings with apartments on top and commercial below, a total conflict with the light industrial character of the area. And, definitely too costly to construct due to high land values and small lot sizes.

Plus, the city has purchased the most developable lots along Franklin Avenue and toys with foolishly moving the City Hall to First Street with its very poor accessibility. Removing this land from the tax rolls is contradictory to the objective of a tax increment district.

Bizarrely the city continues to overemphasize a Hawthorne bridge as a potential impact. Bike riders on nearby Greenwood and Franklin approximate

100 daily each. If the Hawthorne bridge crossing is able to attract that many, it will translate into as many riders in a month as cars that will be displaced in one day, by closing the parkway exit to allow the bridge. Additionally, the impact of redirecting that traffic has not been addressed. Nor has the cost of connecting either end to established safe bike routes.

In this small (BCD) area two of the three east-west streets are unimproved and impassable. The third, Hawthorne, will become ineffective, and undesirable for development, because the massive 20-foot-wide concrete bridge ramp will be down the middle of the street. This will negate any potential economic development from the bridge. Just one of many unaddressed problems created, to go with no clear benefit of a bridge at this location. Apparently in their zest to create an icon they blinded themselves to the many negatives, like relocating City Hall.

Obviously too, a Hawthorne bridge will create an unaddressed significant safety issue when it reaches 3rd Street. Clearly the money would be better spent moving the bridge to Franklin, thereby eliminating the serious safety issue at the tunnel. Better zero safety issues than two!

Lots to wonder about city planning and decision making.

DISMANTLING DEMOCRACY

—Allan Bruckner

A recent report from the V-Dem Institute of Sweden’s University of Gothenburg says in his second term so far, Trump has dismantled the U.S. democracy at a speed unprecedented in modern history. “Trump has achieved in one year what budding autocracies take a decade to accomplish, at a speed comparable to a coup’d etat,” the report says.

In “The Origins of Totalitarianism,” Hannah Arendt writes, racism is the

foundation upon which totalitarianism (read fascism, autocracy, etc), is built, from which entirely new political institutions develop, destroying all former social, legal and political institutions and traditions.

Spending 11/2 trillion for weapons of death and destruction to commit genocide abroad while perpetrating genocide here by cutting all funding necessary to keep the needy alive. Billions for bombs, billionaires and ballrooms. Enabled by his cowardly lemmings, the biggest criminal traitor liar in history says, “Who ya gonna believe, me or your lyin’ eyes,” while assaulting us 24/7 with verbal diarrhea and mindless feckless actions.

The Supreme Court sent Trump a clear message regarding his bozo tariffs: “Our system is not meant to work this way, that one man has so much power.” And what’s changed? Trump and his fascist goons have transformed America from a nation of Justice to a nation of “just ICE.” Let’s extend to fossil in Chief #47 the MAGA nicety previously extended to President Joe Biden, “Let’s Go Brandon,” in appreciation of his continued fornication of truth, justice, liberty, humanity and the planet.

—Mike Epstein

BRAVO TO LA PINE

I want to express my gratitude to the citizens of La Pine for their bold action to deny a proposed data center. In impassioned testimony to their council, residents made it clear that the development did not comport with the vision for the future of their community.

La Pine, and the surrounding forests, streams and mountains, reflects all that is special about Central Oregon. Loggers, fishermen, merchants, musicians, artists and beer makers all share in the small-town vibe and relative quiet of this magic place. Deer and elk still roam the woods just outside (and sometimes inside!) of town.

A data center would have changed all of this, as they have in thousands of communities across the United States. These locales now face questions about future water quality and quantity, energy capacity and effects on local and regional environmental quality. Who is responsible for all of this? We all are. We are overdue in considering our personal AI needs and consumption. Small steps can make a difference. On a recent trip, I had the privilege of sitting next to a science writer who has been immersed in the study of the impacts of data centers. One small step she suggested was to type a space then “-ai” at the end of string in your web searches. Voila! No AI result (or consumption) and still plenty of information to work with. I encourage you to try it.

Small steps. Sometimes small steps in a small community can yield some big results!

—Kevin Tanski

Letter of the Week:

Thanks to everyone for submitting letters. Keep them coming! Kevin, as letter of the week, you can stop by the Source at the corner of NW Georgia and Bond to pick up a gift card to Palate coffee.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

Should Bendites Have to Pay to Pollute?

This month, the Bend City Council opted to move forward with its plan to charge a fee to developers putting natural gas systems into new homes — a move aimed at meeting the city’s carbon emissions goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

There was no good timing for this.

As a whole, Oregonians’ economic picture is not rosy. According to the Oregon State Treasurer’s Financial Wellness Scorecard released in March, three-fourths of Oregonians are feeling increasing cost-of-living pressures, which has led to record amounts of household debt. Bankruptcy filings went up 25% in 2025, according to the scorecard. And local nonprofits are seeing the effects, with rising demand for help with energy bills, food, child care and affordable housing. The City already raised fees on its utility bills this past year, and this new fee is likely to make homes in Bend less affordable going forward.

Politicians and regular people alike spend a lot of time talking about wildfire — how to prevent it and what to do if it comes — but few of us actually want to pay the cost when it comes to doing something about it. Producing less carbon is doing something about it, even if it’s only on the scale of a town of 100,000 or so people.

The last few years, we as Americans have had our national conversation turned away from climate change; replaced by whatever fancy the President picks up next. With the most recent amusement — Iran — we’ve perhaps seen a glimmer of conversation turning back to the planet’s existential threat. With crude oil locked up in the Strait of Hormuz and gas prices high, people have been thinking more about energy efficiency and producing energy that doesn’t involve cruises into conflict zones.

As it pertains to their political careers, the five councilors who voted “Yes” are sure to hear an earful the next time they run for office (which for some is this November). The one who voted no — Megan Perkins — expressed some of the concerns we listed above in her comments before the vote, saying the unintended consequences may very well be an increase in costs.

Costs are indeed rising, and yet, in mulling the pros and cons, we still believe moving away from natural gas in the city was the right direction. Electricity, in theory, doesn’t have to be trucked in the form of dangerous liquified natural gas, or perhaps worse, conveyed through gigantic pipelines, like the one that currently divides Stevens Road and Stevens Ranch. We can clearly imagine a future where we burn less coal and other fossil fuels for electricity and instead harness more of Central Oregon’s abundant sun to produce more local energy.

When the Bend City Council began to talk about the notion of charging a fee for the installation of natural gas, we were not instantly convinced. We get too many letters to the editor addressing affordability to ignore that glaring concern. But timing and context matter here. Timing-wise, the Council still has a Democratic supermajority and thus has the political freedom to make some big moves. In terms of context, the current conflict over oil and the high costs of filling up the tank also soften the issue a bit. The U.S. may produce most of its own natural gas for home heating and cooling, but seeing the transportation of oil become a bargaining chip in our current global conflict certainly has the potential to get people thinking more about alternatives.

Even after this vote, no one is preventing Bendites from installing natural gas in their homes. But going forward, if you want to do so, you’re just going to have to pay to pollute.

Bend Passes Fees on Gas Appliances in New Homes

The City is the second in Oregon to pass such a fee

By Clayton Franke

Bend — one of Oregon’s fastest-growing cities — became the second in the state to pass fees on natural gas appliances in new home construction, a controversial policy meant to curb greenhouse emissions in buildings to meet the City’s climate goals and help combat the effects of climate change.

The Bend City Council during a June 3 meeting voted 5-1 in favor of the natural gas fees, named the Climate Pollution Fee. A second vote on June 17 is expected to make the move official, with fees starting in April 2027.

Mayor Pro Tem Megan Perkins voted against it, while Councilors Gina Franzosa, Ariel Méndez, Mike Riley, Steve Platt and Mayor Melanie Kebler voted in favor of the policy. Councilor Megan Norris abstained because she works for Hayden Homes, a developer that will be affected by the fee.

The new fee comes as the City pushes to build more than 33,000 homes in the next two decades to meet state goals.

“It’s really important what all those new homes are going to be built like for our future as a city,” Mayor Kebler said the night of the vote. “This is a way to signal that we want those homes to be better for the long term, we want those homes to align with our climate goals.”

Supporters praised the Council for backing the fee — what they view as a necessary tool to nudge home builders toward electric power and green up a sector that accounts for about 28% of Bend’s carbon emissions.

Bend’s vote to make installing gas appliances more expensive comes as dozens of cities and other local governments across the country adopt policies to encourage electrification. The City of Ashland implemented a fee similar to Bend’s last year.

During the meeting, advocates, particularly young people, told the Bend City Council the action provides a glimmer of hope that policy can reduce impending harms of a warming climate, which in Central Oregon could include worsened wildfire seasons and dismal snowpack for winter sports.

“By passing this policy, you are sending a message to the young people of Bend that you care about our future and hear our concerns,” said Mikayla May, a junior at Caldera High School and climate advocate.

The Bend City Council pushed ahead with the fee despite ample warnings from industry and union leaders that the fee would make one of the most expensive housing markets in the state even less affordable, hinder energy reliability and hurt jobs.

“We are disappointed and concerned by the outcome,” Alyn Spector, government affairs manager with

Cascade Natural Gas, told the Source. Instead of passing a fee, the utility, which serves about 40,000 customers in Bend, asked the Council to lean into its pilot program rolling out dual-fuel heat pumps, which can alternate between gas and electricity, depending on which is more efficient at a given time.

The Northwest Coalition for Energy Choice, a group opposing local natural gas policies in the region, urged the public in a text message campaign prior to the vote to let the City Council know that voters would remember the “needless tax increase” during election season.

“We’re going to take some knocks right here,” City Councilor Steve Platt said during the meeting. “But I’m proud of us sitting up on this dais, with warts and all on this policy, that we’re moving forward on an iterative process that we can respond to changes and the real community impacts year over year, with further community input to get it better and better as we go forward.”

The fee doesn’t apply to multifamily or commercial construction. City staff estimate the Climate Pollution Fee will cost developers who choose to put all-gas appliances in new homes between $1,300 and $3,000, depending on the size of the home and types of appliances installed. Those that produce greater emissions account for a larger portion of the fee. For example, installing a gas furnace in an average size home will likely cost about $1,500 while fees associated with a gas drier would be about $33.

Another factor is the social cost of carbon, a metric created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to measure the monetary damages of carbon emissions through effects of climate change, such as severe floods or catastrophic wildfires.

The City Council has indicated fee revenue will be used to incentivize future electrification, but hasn’t officially determined what that will look like.

Advocates in Bend urged the City Council to set a much higher fee amount during discussions earlier this year. Bend’s estimated average fee amount is less than one-third of what Ashland charges builders for installing natural gas appliances, according to that city’s website.

And since it went into effect Jan. 1, Ashland’s fee has been mostly successful at deterring builders from using gas, according to Carra Sahler, director and staff attorney with the Green Energy Institute at the Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland.

Up until a few years ago, some local governments seeking to decarbonize buildings passed ordinances effectively banning natural gas in new buildings. But the movement shifted after a federal appeals court overruled a Berkeley, California, ban on new gas hookups, saying it violated federal law.

Fees on gas appliances in new construction have more solid legal footing, Sahler said.

“This is a way for local government to say, ‘we’re serious about the things we put in this climate action plan,’” Sahler told the Source.

Bend’s climate goals, set in 2016, aim to reduce the city’s carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050.

But by how much Bend’s new policy will actually reduce emissions remains to be seen.

Although buildings of all types make up about half of Bend’s carbon emissions, nearly three-quarters of those emissions can be traced back to burning fossil fuels to create the electricity that powers Bend’s homes, according to the City’s 2021 greenhouse gas inventory. The success of Bend’s new policy to reduce emissions relies heavily on the assumption that Pacific Power, the City’s main electric supplier, will successfully transition to entirely renewable sources in the next few decades, as mandated by the state legislature.

Oregon utility regulators and watchdogs have said Pacific Power’s strategies haven’t clearly outlined a commitment to decarbonizing, although the utility company says it plans to meet the state’s mandate.

Part of Bend’s fee formula includes information about Pacific Power’s energy sources as it compares to Cascade Natural Gas, the area’s main natural gas provider, according to Cassie Lacy, an analyst with the City of Bend. That means the fee would be reduced should Pacific Power fail to fully decarbonize.

Source Gets Nod for Opinion Coverage; Moves Up in Size in Regional Journalism Awards

Growth in the newsroom leads to change from “small” to “medium” category

By The Source Staff

The Source gained recognition in a Pacific Northwest journalism contest announced this week, winning third place in the Editorial & Commentary category among medium-sized newspapers in the region. To win the award in the Society of Professional Journalists’ Northwest Excellence in Journalism 2025

contest, the Source submitted Opinion stories tackling supportive housing, e-bikes and home hardening regulations, written by Editor in Chief Nicole Vulcan and Publisher Aaron Switzer.

In previous years, the Source has been placed in the “Small” size category in the annual SPJ contest, and

the Source newsroom won the coveted General Excellence award among small newsrooms in the 2024 SPJ contest. This year, the Source was moved up to the “Medium” category, following the growth of the newsroom over the past year.

Government Roundup

By Nic Moye

Bend Budget Committee Public Hearing June 3

Bend will receive an estimated $3,376,900 of state shared revenues for fiscal year 2026-27. The bulk of the money, $1,297,300, is from state revenue sharing; $1,853,300 is from liquor taxes; $164,500 is from marijuana taxes and $61,900 is from cigarette taxes. Bend also expects to receive $8,650,400 from state gas taxes and vehicle registration fees.

The City Council also received a preview of proposed fee changes for FY 2026-27 which includes a 4% increase in licensing fees for short-term rental and taxi licenses; a 10% increase in business license registrations; a 2.4% increase in water/sewer/transportation system development charges and 1.88% increase in park SDCs. An increase in water/sewer/stormwater fees will mean a roughly 4% increase to customer water bills. The City Council will discuss the fee changes and hold a second public hearing on the budget June 17.

Bend City Council Meeting June 3

The City Council authorized the city manager to enter an agreement with the Federal Rail Administration for a $32 million grant to pay for the final design and construction of a bridge over the railroad tracks on SE Reed Market. The design maintains a connection to Ninth Street for drivers and includes a pedestrian tunnel under Reed Market at Ninth. The grant is 70% of the project’s total cost. The other 30% ($13,851,986) is from the City’s 2020 Transportation General Obligation Bond with $220,000 from BNSF railroad. Construction is expected to begin in late 2027.

Bend Park & Recreation District Board Meeting June 2

The park board adopted a five-year capital improvement plan which includes finishing Pine Nursery Park upgrades with all-weather softball/baseball turfs and trail lighting; Sawyer Park improvements; adding a footbridge from Riley Ranch Nature Preserve to the Deschutes River Trail and increasing the number of neighborhood parks to meet the goal of one park within a half mile of every resident. The board also adopted its Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget.

The park board awarded a $2,124,200 construction contract to 2KG Contractors, Inc. for improvements to Sawyer Park which includes a new restroom and shelter. Parking will be relocated north of the entrance off O.B. Riley Road while the current driveway will become a pedestrian/bike path. The park board also voted 3-1 to approve a contract with Enterprise Fleet Management to transition away from owning vehicles to leasing them, which could save $1 million over five-years in reduced maintenance/replacement costs.

James McLaughlin, Candidate for Deschutes County Sheriff, Says He’s Been ‘Politically Targeted’

McLaughlin is one of three DCSO employees placed on leave, pending an independent investigation of alleged misconduct

By Peter Madsen

James “Mac” McLaughlin has outed himself as one of three Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office employees Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert placed on paid administrative on June 5, stemming from allegations of misconduct.

McLaughlin called it “political theater” in a statement the next day.

McLaughlin, DCSO Lieutenant and the SWAT commander, says the misconduct allegations, made by two citizens and relating to the same incident, are “unsubstantiated.” Rupert’s placing him and the two others on paid administrative leave is the latest example of “systemic political targeting" that has plagued the Office, McLaughlin added.

Both Rupert and McLaughlin are campaigning for the sheriff position in the November general election. Whoever wins will preside through 2028. That’s the end of the term of former Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, who resigned in July 2025, only nine months after winning the November 2024 election.

Rupert and DCSO spokesperson Jason Carr did not reply to questions regarding the two other DCSO employees’ identities, nor to questions about the allegations.

“As your sheriff, one of my greatest responsibilities is maintaining the trust and confidence of our community and our office,” Rupert wrote in a staff email and later in a press release. “Today, I want to be transparent regarding a difficult decision I have made concerning members of our office.”

In his statement, McLaughlin wrote that he, “has nothing to hide” and that he “deeply respects the internal investigation process.” He intends to “cooperate fully and transparently, because that is the standard of leadership he intends to bring to the Sheriff’s Office.”

McLaughlin did not reply to texts regarding the status of the inter-agency SWAT team, of which he is the commander.

A third-party investigation is underway, yet it’s not clear when it will conclude and whether it will happen before or after the November election.

Retaliation allegations at the DCSO aren’t new. Former Deputy Eric Kozoswki filed a 2018 lawsuit claiming that then-Sheriff Shane Nelson fired him in retaliation for running against him in the 2016 election. In 2021, a jury awarded Kozoswki $1.06 million. Legal fees cost the county an additional $1.2 million, the Source reported.

In a November 2025 sit-down interview with the Source, Rupert said headlines like these are precisely what he wanted to avoid during his tenure.

“Our office traditionally hasn’t had the best reputation with the news for quite a few years. You’ve probably seen a lot of negative headlines,” Rupert told the Source. “But I’m a different kind of person [than former Sheriff van der Kamp] and I’d rather build bridges.”

William Bailey lost the 2024 sheriff election against van der Kamp. In April 2025, the District Attorney’s Office placed van der Kamp on the Brady List for dishonesty. Shortly before he resigned, Van der Kamp placed Bailey on paid administrative leave for critical comments Bailey allegedly made during a La Pine radio show. A county administrator fired Bailey, who appealed. A third-party investigation is underway.

Rupert became a sworn DCSO deputy in October 2005. McLaughlin became deputized in October 2008.

In his statement, McLaughlin says he is running for sheriff “to put an end to the exact kind of systemic political targeting that this office has unfortunately become known for. The citizens of this county deserve an agency that is focused on public safety, not political theater.

“Our campaign has stated from day one that we will run with honor. We will not engage in retaliation or mudslinging, and we will not allow this distraction to slow us down,” he continued, reiterating that his “commitment to the men and women of this agency, and to the citizens of this county, remains absolute.”

In campaign materials, Rupert says Deschutes County “deserves steady, experienced leadership rooted in integrity, trust and transparency.”

Bend’s Roundabouts Can Be Roadblocks for Blind People. 3D-Printed Models Could Help.

A new project aims to help people without sight create mental images of complex intersections

By Clayton Franke

Sharlene Wills ran her fingers over the small arrow on the crosswalk button for her first hint. She squared up to the crosswalk, stepping out slowly until she felt the bumpy surface under her feet. She heard the cars to her left roll to a stop and the chime of a robotic voice in the air.

“Walk sign is on to cross Division Street.”

“Forward,” Wills told her yellow lab guide dog, Hollywood, and the pair strode out. They reached a concrete median island, turning 45 degrees before crossing another lane of traffic to the other side.

Cars rumbled by along Third Street, the U.S. Highway 97 business route.

Navigating Bend’s streets without the benefit of sight is a daily task for Wills, who is blind. Some intersections are more challenging than others, but it’s not always the busier ones that make for the bigger challenge.

The swirling sounds of Bend’s favorite form of intersection control — the roundabout — can be dizzying for people who are blind or have low vision. Some, like Wills, avoid them altogether. But Wills is advising on a developing project that uses 3D-printed intersection models to communicate Bend’s intersection design through touch. The handheld diagrams — also called tactile wayfinding maps — are meant to help blind and low vision people create mental images of intersections, giving more clues of where to cross and what’s ahead.

The project comes amid the Bend City Council’s heightened focus on safety-focused projects across town. In recent years, the City has introduced features like curb-separated bike lanes,

concrete aprons, angled crossings and bright green paint meant to slow down drivers and give pedestrians and bicyclists more of a presence.

For people without sight, the changes aren’t intuitive.

“Anything new can throw us off,” said Wills, 78. She has glaucoma and has been blind since birth. “We draw a map or a picture in our heads of what we have to do to cross a certain street. Unless we can get that picture in the first place, we’re up the creek.”

That’s exactly what the 3D modeling project aims to do.

Making the mental maps

The City of Bend is working with Kittelson & Associates, a transportation engineering firm, and Timothy Gorbold, a local product designer whose company focuses on products for people with disabilities. At his workshop — a converted garage at his mother-in-law’s house — Gorbold customizes Kittelson’s intersection designs using computer models. He then creates the models with a set of small 3D printers resembling futuristic microwave ovens.

The final product is no more than a few millimeters tall. Rather than modeling the actual topography of the roadway, Gorbold created a set of symbols to communicate the layout of sidewalks, bike lines, concrete medians and traffic lanes.

“Instead of getting the information through their eyes, they’re getting the information through their fingers, through touch,” Gorbold said.

He’s modeled single-lane and multilane roundabouts, roundabouts with

protected bike lanes and the new protected intersections.

Unlike the novelty of protected intersections, roundabouts have long been the City’s first choice when making intersection upgrades, due to their ability to reduce speeds and serious crashes. There are now more than 50 of them across the city.

But the thing that makes roundabouts safer for drivers leaves blind people without a primary auditory landmark — the sound of traffic moving parallel to the crosswalk, said Beezy Bentzen, founder of the transportation research group American Design for the Blind.

“The more they can understand about the spatial layout, the more they’re able to use other cues,” Bentzen said.

Bentzen worked on some of the first research into tactile wayfinding more than 50 years ago. While the tools are now a common practice for mobility specialists who help blind people navigate, not many jurisdictions have them available as a public resource, she said.

The plan is to put the models into a booklet that’s accessible to the public, said Derek Hofbauer, mobility programs manager with the City of Bend. As part of the prototype, users can scan a code with their phones to hear an AI-generated description of the models.

Rather than modeling specific intersections, the maps will provide a general concept of how new types of intersections work, with hopes that can be applied to most places across the city, Hofbauer said.

Using tactile maps to show blind and low-vision people transportation

networks is not new. But 3D printing opens the door to mass-producing the models, which could make them more widespread, Gorbold said. He’s hopeful that progress will happen locally: a tactile intersection modeling with 3D printers was recently accepted as a capstone project at Oregon State University-Cascades, according to Gorbold.

Looking forward

Wills is hopeful that with the right models, roundabout navigation will finally click.

“The fact that they’re trying is very, very important to us,” Wills said. She is one of the people advising on the modeling project.

But there are other changes that could go a long way, she said, like moving pedestrian street poles closer to crosswalk entrances, and adding more raised ridges to sidewalks and streets.

According to Hofbauer, the City follows accessibility design guidelines for roundabouts. That includes raised indicators along bike ramps on shared-use paths, lowered sidewalks at crosswalk ramps, plus flashing beacons and audio signals for multi-lane roundabouts.

The project comes as the Bend City Council begins discussions around new transportation standards, which includes roundabout policy. One Councilor, Gina Franzosa, wants the City to take another look at its “roundabout first” rule, especially in more walkable and bikeable areas. In a recent meeting, Franzosa cited difficulties for blind people as one reason to consider other options.

Upcoming Workshops

June 20 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. th

Introduction to Natural Dyes: From Seed to Color with Madelaine Corbin

July 18 & 19 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. th th From Plant to Pigment with Amanda Lee

Pre-registration

August 22 & 23 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. nd rd

Pattern Printing with Mordants and Overdyeing with Madelaine Corbin

September 19 & 20 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. th th

Exploring the Mushroom and Lichen Dye Palette of Central Oregon with Alissa Allen

October 17 & 18 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. th th

Printing with Citric Acid and Natural Dyes with Delia Perez

REDMOND NEWS Homeless Service “Hub” Proposed for East Redmond

The

facility would accompany other housing and shelter projects to assist homeless people in the area

By Clayton Franke

Aproposal to create a new service “hub” in east Redmond for homeless people to connect with housing resources, mental health programs, food and other services is gaining support from the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners.

The service center would be part of a burgeoning campus of homeless assistance projects in east Redmond, close to where hundreds of people are living in RVs, tents and trailers on government-owned lands slated for future industrial development.

Deschutes County commissioners on June 3 approved a letter of support for outreach nonprofit Jericho Road to lease 1.7 acres of County land to develop a 2,500-square-foot building to act as the service center and another smaller storage building. But before the County commits to a lease or contributes staff time, Jericho Road will first need to show it has most of the funding for a project expected to cost $1 million to build and $550,000 per year to run, the letter says.

The County’s letter will help with those fundraising efforts, said Eleanor Bessonette, Jericho Road’s board chair.

“It’s hard to apply for funding or approach funders if we don’t have some type of promise or guarantee that we would have land to actually put the hub on,” Bessonette said.

The nonprofit has not requested funding from Deschutes County for the project. Jericho Road already has $200,000 set aside and hopes to have the service center running by next spring, according to Bessonette.

According to Don Senecal, fund developer for Jericho Road, the center would act as a home base for Jericho Road’s programs, including outreach to homeless camps, basic supplies, propane exchange, eviction prevention and a mobile shower trailer. It would also be a space for other nonprofits to meet with clients to provide case management.

“The whole focus will be to, not just to provide services, but to help folks get out of the dirt, to move on to stable housing,” Bessonette told commissioners in an April 6 meeting.

The land is located just inside the Redmond urban growth boundary, north of U.S. Highway 126 and the Redmond Airport, about 2 miles east of downtown. The property abuts Oasis Village, a 15-unit tiny shelter transitional housing project, and the future site of a 75-home supportive housing village for people leaving homelessness that developers hope to break ground on this year. Directly to the north lies a 36-site campground the County and City recently developed with gravel roads, power and water lines. They’re now negotiating a contract with another nonprofit to provide services at the camp.

All of this lies on land owned and leased by Deschutes County.

Proposed east Redmond homeless service center location

But the fact that these facilities are on the outskirts of town poses a challenge for people seeking support, said Don Senecal, fund developer with Jericho Road.

“Transportation is a huge issue,” Senecal told the Source. “This facility will remove a great deal of that.”

The City of Redmond and the Redmond Chamber of Commerce have also written letters in support, along with a handful of other homeless service nonprofits and housing providers.

All three county commissioners gave unanimous support for the letter, but not before two raised questions and concerns during an April 6 meeting.

Commissioner Patti Adair asked how many people had actually moved out of homelessness through the Oasis Village shelter program.

Commissioner Tony DeBone, who has not supported land leases for other homeless facilities in the area, said adding more resources might attract more homeless people rather than moving them into housing.

“I don’t know that we’re turning the corner on this,” DeBone said. “It feels good to help people, but sometimes it’s a one-way street.”

The service center proposal comes as about 160 people are camped on County lands in the area, including a few on a 137-acre parcel designated for a land swap with the state that’s been held up by the presence of encampments since 2022. Most people are now living in an area outside the city limits dubbed the “Green Zone,” where the County isn’t forcing people to move for the time being.

But Central Oregon saw a decrease in homelessness this year, according to the annual Point-In-Time Count. Commissioner Phil Chang attributed that partly to the work of service providers like Jericho Road.

“I wish there was a solution that we could say, ‘Wow this is it,’” Bessonette told commissioners in April. “Right now, with a lot of folks working together, I see that we can make a difference. I know that we’re touching and changing lives. But that has to continue.”

JOYFUL LANE MUSIC BENEFIT CONCERT

OBSIDIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

Dry Canyon Club is proud to host Joyful Lane Music performing a fundraising concert to benefit Obsidian Middle School Music Program. A percentage of all sales through DCC will be donated, and Joyful Lane will donate 100% of tips. 6-8pm at Dry Canyon Club. 865 NW Hemlock Ave, Redmond. Free.

FRIDAY 06/12

REDMOND FARMERS MARKET

LOCAL GOODS FORAGIN’

Peruse and shop for some goods from local vendors and farmers. The Friday Farmers Market runs from May through August. 3-7pm at Centennial Park. 446 SW 9th St, Redmond,. Free.

FRIDAY 06/12-06/14

REGGAE RISE UP

ISLAND FESTIVITY VIBES

Three days of music, camping, food, merch, art, activities & good vibes! Performances by Rebelution, Dirty Heads, 311, Iration, SOJA, Tash Sultana, & 30+ More Bands! Noon-11pm at Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center. 3800 SW Airport Wy, Redmond. $100.

Photo by Peter Madsen

Kickin’ Up Dust with the Prineville Review

“

Investigative journalist Justin Alderman just won two victories for First Amendment rights. But will the Alfalfa Fire District ever recover?

By Peter Madsen

Did you call the sheriff’s office on me?”

The public had just been let into the Alfalfa Fire District special meeting on May 22 when Justin Alderman, the co-founder and managing editor of the Prineville Review, fired off questions. They came rat-a-tat-style at AFD board member Mark Laucks.

“Mr. Laucks, is it true you contacted the sheriff?”

Laucks shuffled freshly printed meeting agendas to pass out to the half dozen attendees, which included a few reporters.

“No comment,” Laucks said over his shoulder, in response to Alderman’s questions.

Those questions about the sheriff referred to an incident after an AFD business meeting on April 8. Outside the firehouse, Alderman was interviewing a member of the public when Chief Chad LaVallee directed him to leave. When Alderman refused, a Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrived to intercept him. The deputy told Alderman to leave unless he wanted to be arrested.

“Buddy, please stand down while I get the Zoom started.”

- Mark Laucks

Earlier that day, the fire district board passed Policy 2026-4, which stated that in the interest of public safety, attendees must immediately vacate the district’s property after a meeting. A recent thorn in the side of many a local government official, Alderman says he believed the policy was designed to keep him from asking critical questions.

On behalf of the fire district, Madras-based attorney Jered Reid notified Alderman of a formal notice of trespass on April 27, owing to the April 8 incident.

By May 13, however, a federal judge had enjoined them from enforcing the trespass and voiding the policy.

Alderman was back in the building, once again peppering the board with questions.

Only two board members, Laucks and Carolyn Chase, were physically present at the May 22 meeting. Chief LaVallee wasn’t present for reasons unknown. Laucks fiddled with a monitor’s Zoom settings while testing whether the rest of the four-person board were audible. Alderman offered I.T. advice.

“Buddy, please stand down while I get the Zoom started,” Laucks said.

As the meeting began, attorney Reid, sitting at the board table, recommended the board completely rescind Policy 2026-4. He also advised the board in how to properly administer a meeting.

“Motion approved to adjust the agenda,” Laucks said.

“No. You just made the motion,” Reid interrupted. “Now you say, ‘All those in favor in of adjusting our agenda, say aye,’”

Laucks reiterated the directive, and the Board members granted their ayes. In the back of the room, Alderman rolled his eyes.

CUT FROM A DIFFERENT CLOTH

At first glance, Alderman looks the part of an everyday rural Central Oregonian: square-toe boots, shortsleeve collared shirt and slacks — a combo that can easily transition from public meeting to a pontoon outing. He wears his brown hair short and his beard in a manicured stubble. He sports a metal military ID bracelet and bugeyed sunglasses popular with cops in the ‘90s.

He’s also an equestrian and the owner of two American Paint Horses. Originally from the Willamette Valley, Alderman moved to Prineville in 2023. He’s been visiting Central Oregon since he was a kid; his grandparents once owned a ranch outside Sisters. Alderman loves the high desert weather. He and a business partner founded the Prineville Review to provide consistent reporting on Prineville City Hall, Crook County and small-district governance, he said.

“These news tips came streaming in and it became clear that some new topics weren’t being covered by the current outlets,” Alderman said.

While he can talk profusely about Public Meetings law, Alderman’s walk is what distinguishes him. As he explained, tensions at the AFD had been rising since 2024, when Alderman’s reporting in the Prineville Review began raising uncomfortable questions and reporting unsettling revelations, including:

Did the AFD misuse district funds and resources when it promoted a “Yes” vote for the tax levy on the Deschutes County primary election ballot? The Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division is investigating, the Prineville Review reported.

Did AFD Chief Chad LaVallee break laws surrounding nepotism and conflicts of interest by hiring his wife, who became the district’s only other paid employee? (She later resigned.) The Prineville Review has the scoop on the Oregon Government Ethics Commission’s investigation into the matter.

Did LaVallee illegally tax residents by annexing Juniper Acres into its district, which resulted in upset residents, a state and county investigation, and obligatory refund checks sent in the mail? Yup. Read all about it at The Prineville Review.

Alderman is a no-nonsense guy. Having joined the Army National Guard in 2008 and graduating from military police academy the following year, he served in the Oregon National Guard until 2014. He later worked as a tech executive, mostly in health care software, he said.

Alderman, 36, says his passion for journalism began in high school. He invested personal savings to launch the Prineville Review, and the free online publication only began running advertisements in March. Alderman gained renown in Oregon’s tight-knit journalism community when Willamette Week published a profile of him and his work, then at the equestrian publication, NW Horse Report.

Asked what gives him the compunction to kick up so much dust, Alderman grew pensive. He talked about his late military friends.

“My friends didn’t die for a government that doesn’t function the way it’s supposed to,” he said. “The bedrock of transparency ensures journalists can do their jobs and the public make informed decisions about the people who represent them.”

To say Alderman talks a lot is an understatement. Friendly, yet ardent, when holding forth on any myriad of local issues, Alderman speaks in fully formed paragraphs. When he digresses, he notes the digression and, shortly later, returns to whichever central theme is anchoring the conversation — although conversation might not be the right word. Alderman’s catchphrase might be, “And let me give you an example,” which he personalizes by addressing the listener by their first name and leaning in a bit, like he’s letting them in on an open secret.

Often, those revelations are open secrets, or secrets Alderman has just made public — or is about to — through his investigative reporting — some of which he publishes in partnership with KTVZ.

Not to mention details of his near arrest on April 8 for lingering after a public meeting.

“The deputy didn’t seem well informed of the situation, so I didn’t push it,” Alderman later said. “Even though I was a military police officer, I’ve never been in handcuffs.”

Attorney Reid did not respond to an email requesting LaVallee and other AFD board members be made available for comment.

“Those in elected office, even at the smallest road and water districts, hold significant power to alter people’s lives. If we can’t easily access records or review meetings, then that lack of transparency becomes the story.”

- Justin Alderman

After the April 8 dustup that almost got him arrested, Alderman went home. He tried to work things out with Reid, who represented the board and LaVallee. On April 27, he filed two civil complaints against the AFD. In a federal complaint, Alderman alleged retaliation and violation of his First and 14th Amendment rights. In the complaint filed in Deschutes County Circuit Court, Alderman alleged violations of public meetings law for the district’s alleged failure to post complete agendas or provide sufficient public notice thereof.

“Challenging these blatantly unconstitutional actions can be extensive, especially when it requires legal counsel. Some government officials expect that people, even journalists, can’t fight back,” Alderman said. “But the Oregon legislature formed an ethics commission. Now there is a new tool to bring grievance to the public body. If necessary, that grievance can be escalated to a formal complaint, made to the ethics commission.”

There Alderman goes again, with those paragraph-long missives.

When he arrived at the May 22 special meeting at the AFD, tensions were still smoldering. The District’s tax levy had failed in the Deschutes County Primary Election by nearly 80%. The levies of two other fire districts, Cloverdale and Sister-Camp Sherman,

meanwhile, had enjoyed broad voter support. A federal judge had handed the AFD a temporary restraining order on May 13, meaning the District’s trespass notice and Policy 2026-4 were invalid.

“There’s been a lack of transparency and lack of super basic governance at the Alfalfa Fire District,” Alderman said. “Many small special districts have no problem complying. But we’re not talking about little technicalities with Alfalfa. A lot of these issues are the fundamental, core parts of Oregon Public Meetings Law requirements.”

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE…

The Alfalfa Fire District covers about 64 square miles, populated by about 1,240 residents in eastern Deschutes County and a sliver of western Crook County. The fire district also administers emergency medical services before Bend Fire & Rescue paramedics can arrive. AFD employs one full-time firefighter, a part-time chief, 10 volunteer firefighters and a paid, seasonal firefighter. Alfalfa is about 16 miles northeast of Bend; the most direct route to the unincorporated hamlet goes east on Highway 20, banking left onto Powell Butte Highway, which winds around the recently installed, double-lane roundabouts and twists along rolling, juniper-dotted ranch land.

Under Chief LaVallee’s tenure, the AFD failed to file annual financial reports for fiscal years 2022, 2023 and 2024, the Prineville Review reported in November 2025, the first of a dozen articles that have centered on the taxing district. The Secretary of State’s Audits Division threatened to recommend dissolution proceedings to the Deschutes County Commission if AFD didn’t comply. Subsequent reporting by the Prineville Review showed that LaVallee submitted the 2022 annual financial report without board approval, which is standard practice for local governments in Oregon.

On May 26, several days after he questioned AFD Board Member Laucks, Alderman attended a full-day hearing at U.S. District Court in Eugene regarding the alleged infringement of Alderman’s First Amendment rights. Current Board Member Dustin Piggott and former Board President Nate Starr, who is no longer an AFD official, represented themselves. Laucks and LaVallee didn’t show, despite having been court-ordered to do so, Alderman noted in a June 2 editorial. The judge beefed up the temporary restraining order into a longer preliminary injunction until there is a final ruling on the underlying complaint. Since AFD rescinded the policy on May 22, this will also be moot.

In short, AFD can’t bar certain people from their meetings, no matter how troubling their questions might be.

The public meetings law violation complaint, which Alderman filed in Deschutes County Circuit Court, winds toward a default judgement in Alderman’s favor, unless AFD submits a response by June 12. If the court finds willful disregard of public meetings law, those involved will have to reimburse the district for legal fees, which would save Alfalfa residents that burden.

FRIENDS IN HIGH PLACES

On a recent afternoon in late May, Alderman met a reporter at the Sandwich Factory in Prineville. The woman working the register greeted him warmly, asking what he’d been up to. Over sandwiches, Alderman talked about his horses. The early afternoon sun blanched the Crook County administrative building across the street. After lunch, Alderman invited me to pop over and meet some officials.

“Let’s go say hi to some folks,” he said. “C’mon, I’ll introduce you.”

After bounding up the stairs, Alderman wheeled around the hallways with a lived-in familiarity, poking

his head into various department offices. Since founding the Prineville Review, Alderman has taken the County to task for conflicts of interest, onerous records fees and timely publication of upcoming meeting agendas.

“Is the mayor in?” he asked a secretary.

“Not today,” she said, cheerily. “Try coming back Monday.”

Alderman tried the office of County Manager Will Van Vactor, who heard his query from down the hall and invited him and his guest to visit in his office.

“Justin, good to see you,” Van Vactor said, grinning and leaning back in his chair. He wore a rhinestone Western shirt, sleeves rolled up to the elbows. Van Vactor’s square-toed boots matched Alderman’s. “So, what’s up?”

Alderman told the county manager that a natural resource subcommittee hadn’t been posting their agendas in a timely manner, which was one of the first focal points of the Prineville Review’s coverage of public meeting transparency in 2024.

“Twenty-four hours isn’t enough time,” Alderman said.

Van Vactor furrowed his brow, swiveled his chair to face his desktop, and began clacking. He jotted notes down on a legal pad. He said there are so many subcommittee meetings that it’s hard for him to track the late notices. He assured Alderman he’d send an email to shore up the discrepancy.

I couldn’t help but ask Van Vactor: Does everyone out here find Justin super annoying?

The resultant laughter lasted a tick longer than civility might warrant.

Van Vactor explained that, as an attorney by trade, he welcomed Alderman’s attention to detail and procedure. His office had even been the subject of Alderman’s critique. Since November 2024, Alderman publicized a contentious back-and-forth regarding a Crook County commissioner’s conflicted dealings and a subsequent dispute over public records and related fees. Ultimately, Oregon’s Public Record Advocate’s review of the issue ultimately landed Van Vactor the authority to resolve the Prineville Review’s outstanding record requests, Alderman reported.

Van Vactor and Alderman made some small talk before the investigator trundled down the stairs to the County Clerk’s office.

County Clerk Cheryl Seely lifted the bullet-proof glass teller window that separated them and shot a smile at Alderman and shook our hands. I asked Seely to sum up Alderman in a word or two.

“Ooh, two words just wouldn’t be enough,” Seely said with a chuckle. She said her office and Alderman now enjoy a smooth working relationship.

“If someone makes a record request, I like to get it to them within a day or two,” Seely said. “Otherwise, other things will come in and if I put it off, I might forget about it. Transparency is important.”

Outside the Crook County Administrative Building, an American flag waved high on a flagpole. A gas-fueled flame danced above a memorial for fallen soldiers.

Alderman said he regretted having to spend so much time reporting on transparency rather than on local government’s decisions and impacts.

“Those in elected office, even at the smallest road and water districts, hold significant power to alter people’s lives,” Alderman said. “If we can’t easily access records or review meetings, then that lack of transparency becomes the story.”

—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 at layitoutfoundation.org.

SOURCE PICKS

THURSDAY

FRANCHOT TONE TRIO

SOUL-REGGAE FUSION

Take a pitch-perfect pinch of vintage reggae and dub, a sun-fried splash of laid-back SoCal pop-rock, and a heaping helping of Meters-style funk and soul, and you've got Tone's brew. 7:30-9:30pm at The Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr #100, Bend. Free. THURSDAY

HR & THE HUMAN RIGHTS MOVEMENT

LIVE REGGAE MUSIC

HR & The Human Rights Movement delivers powerful reggae performances rooted in the message of positivity, consciousness, and unity defined HR’s career from the very beginning.7:30-9pm at The Barrel Room at UPP. 550 SW Industrial Way ste #196, Bend $20. SATURDAY

PENDLETON HIGHWAY

COUNTRY MUSIC CLASSICS

Pendleton Highway takes over the biggest outdoor stage in Sisters, bringing an unforgettable night of country music, high-energy entertainment, and all the classics to dance to. Get ready to dance the night away under the beautiful Sisters sky. 9pm-1am at Hardtails Bar & Grill. 175 N Larch St, Sisters. $10.

SATURDAY

SWEET MOTOR

ROCK AND BLUES FUSION

This Central Oregon five-piece offers up a captivating blend of rock and blues, with Southern Rock flavorings, with a hint of R&B vibes. Expect to hear vivid, blues-driven guitars, honest and soulful vocals, and a well-tuned rhythm section. 8-10pm at The Commonwealth Pub. 30 SW Century Dr #100, Bend. Free.

SATURDAY 06/13

MARKET DAY LA PINE

SOUTH DESCHUTES LOCAL SHOPPIN’

Market Day La Pine is the first official farmers/makers market serving South Deschutes County. Once a month it brings together 30+ vendors of fresh food, hand-made goods, community partners, and youth entrepreneurs. Its mission is to inspire, promote, and showcase micro and small business while fostering connection and growth.10am-2pm at La Pine Parks and Recreation. 16405 1st St, La Pine. Free.

SATURDAY 06/13

HOLLINSHEAD-MATSON HOMESTEAD MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE

LOCAL HISTORY REFRESHER

The Hollinshead-Matson Homestead Museum offers visitors a look back at life in Central Oregon in the 1940s. Tour the museum and hear stories about life in Bend from Sharron Rosengarth, one of the Matson family children whogrew up in the house.10am-1pm at Hollinshead Park 1235 NE Jones Rd, Bend. Free.

SUNDAY 06/14

SAM MILLER

LAUGHS AT MARAGAS

Sam has headlined multiple major comedy clubs including The Laugh Factory in Chicago. Sam is a recurring guest and has been heard by an estimated 2.5 million listeners on the nationally syndicated “Bob & Tom Radio Show.” 7-9:30pm at Maragas Winery. 15523 US-97, Culver $30.

TUESDAY 06/16

SON OF WOLF

FAMILY FRIENDLY BLUEGRASS EVENT

Son of Wolf brings his bluegrass influenced solo act to Goodlife Brewing’s outdoor family friendly beer garden. Original and traditional songs. 6-8pm at Goodlife Brewing. 70 SW Century Dr suite 100-464, Bend. Free.

WEDNESDAY 06/17

SCHOOL’S OUT ROCK SHOW W/ YOUNG GUNS

HIGH-ENERGY ROCK

Celebrate the start of summer with youth rock band Young Guns! Young Guns has quickly developed into one of the most advanced and hi-energy bands in the Music Flow rock band program. They love to perform bold music between 80's arena rock, 90's grunge, and beyond! 6-9pm at Silver Moon Brewing. 4 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend. $12.24.

WEDNESDAY 06/17

HANDPICKED SERIES BY TOM NECHVILLE & LINDA LEAVITT

SISTERS SPEAKEASY

An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt. A $10 suggested donation will be collected at the event, with proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm at Frankie’s. 250 W Cascade Ave, Sisters. $10 donation.

OUTDOORS

Exciting

Learning

It’s

Lessons

SPORTS

SWIMMING

S SOUND Parker McCollum is Just Being Himself

The country singer has gone from performing in honky tonks to amphitheaters within four years

By L. Kent Wolgamott

In June 2025, Parker McCollum released his fifth album, a self-titled effort that’s finished raw and real, leaning into personal songs and a straightforward delivery that moves him into the realm of his songwriting heroes. “Parker McCollum” is also, in his opinion and that of many critics, the best record he’s made in a fast-moving career that’s taken him further from country pop and bro-country into the realms of his songwriting heroes.

“It’s so much better than anything I’ve ever done by 100 miles,” McCollum said in a recent interview. “I’d send it to Steve Earle tomorrow. I haven’t always felt that way about my records. I’m very, very hard on myself. I don’t think anything I’ve ever done is very good. Every record I’ve ever cut. I’ve said, ‘Man, I’m better than that. I can do better than that.’ This is the first album I’ve ever recorded that I said, ‘Man, this is probably as good as I’m ever going to get.’”

The 14 songs on “Parker McCollum” (and 18 on a deluxe version that followed in March) work together to merge singer/songwriter Americana with traditional Texas country and just enough Nashville pop. McCollum, who grew up in Conroe, Texas (near Houston), comes by his sound naturally. While growing up he soaked in classic country, got introduced to red dirt country and then songwriters like Bob Dylan and Townes Van Zandt. He started writing songs as a teenager, working his way, in a sense, through his musical heroes.

“I just went through so many phases when I was much younger,” McCollum said from his southeast Texas home. “You know, I wanted to be Steve Earle. I wanted to be Shooter Jennings. I wanted to be Todd Snider. I wanted to be James McMurtry. I wanted to be Robert Earl Keen. I wanted to be John Mayer. I wanted to be George Strait. I wanted to be Randy Travis. I wanted to be Chris Knight, on and on and on.”

Eventually McCollum realized how those artists achieved their own singularity.

“I just was like, I’m one of them. I know I am,” he said. “And it was probably my mid 20s, and I said, ‘Man, I think I’m better off just being me.’ And that was about the time that it all took off, and I’ve never looked back.”

McCollum came on the national scene with his 2015 debut album, “The Limestone Kid,” and had a Texas regional radio hit with “Meet You in The Middle,” which helped him build a strong following in the Lone Star state. He landed his deal with Universal Music Group Nashville in 2019 and in 2020 released “Hollywood Gold,” which became the best-selling debut country EP of that year.

His 2021 major-label debut album, “Gold Chain Cowboy,” hit No. 1 on the country charts with his platinum single, “Pretty Heart,” and he won the ACM Best New Male Artist award for 2021. He took his second ACM Award in 2024 for Visual Media of the Year for the music video for “Burn It Down,” a song from his fourth album, “Never Enough.” Now the self-titled album has given him the 2026 award for Album of the Year. Despite all the success, McCollum wasn’t satisfied with either “Gold Chain Cowboy” or 2023’s “Never Enough.”

“I got a little too comfortable on the last two albums and was touring just nonstop, relentlessly,” he said. “I was about halfway through last year and I said, ‘I gotta go get uncomfortable again and I gotta go into a studio with a band and me and my guitar and just record songs,’” McCollum said. “I thought, ‘I really

need to get focused, I really want to be intentional with this next record.’ That’s what we did. And, man, it’s pretty wild.”

McCollum signals where the album is coming from on “Solid Country Gold,” which names Guy Clark, John Prine and Rodney Crowell, and he covers the Leon Russell hit, “Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues.”

“I decided to go in and, you know, just strip everything away,” McCollum said. “That one there when I very first started, you know, sonically and sometimes want to sound just like me. This is raw Parker as it can be and still (be) put on the radio.”

McCollum has in just over four years moved up from honky tonks and opening slots to headlining theaters, amphitheaters and arenas, transitions that have gone smoothly for him.

“It’s the same,” he said. “No matter whether you’re playing in the bars or you’re playing a stadium, you’ve got to go out there and sing the songs. I always say, and it’s true, man, if there’s 1,000 people or 20,000 people, if they’re rocking and that crowd’s into it, and I’m singing and feeling good and the energy’s there, man, it doesn’t matter how many people are out there.”

“I compare it to Steph Curry all the time,” McCollum said. “He has practiced basketball for hours and hours and years on end. And he has nights he goes out and can’t buy a bucket, and he has nights where he goes out and drops 50.

“Touring feels about the same way,” he said. “You have nights where you go out and you feel like you just sucked, and the very next night you may go out there and be like, ‘Man, I don’t think I’m that bad.’” Regardless of whether he thinks he’s done a good show, McCollum is certain of one thing — he’ll be boogying back to Texas as quickly as possible after the weekend runs of his tour.

“That’s why I moved to Texas and bought an airplane,” he said. “I said ‘To hell with this. I gotta get home. I gotta be a dad, too, but still I gotta go out and rock every night. Luckily, it’s going pretty well right now.”

Parker McCollumn Fri, June 26 6:30pm Hayden Homes Amphitheater 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend Livenation.com $67.20+

CALENDAR

10 Wednesday

Boneyard Pub Hot Gypsy Swing at The Boneyard Pub with The Brandon Campbell Trio!!! Their sound is hot, vibrant, atmospheric, and rooted in the acoustic legacy of Django Reinhardt. All ages welcome! 6-8pm. Free.

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

The Commonwealth Pub The Giant Steps - COCC Jazz Combo The Giant Steps are one chamber of the COCC Jazz combo. Come enjoy some summer evening early jazz. 5-6pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub The Two Tracks Rooted in the wide-open landscapes of Wyoming, The Two Tracks create music that fuses rich storytelling, soulful harmonies, and the spirit of the American West. At the heart of The Two Tracks is a deep commitment to connection—on stage and on record. 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. Come down, eat some BBQ, drink some drinks, and be prepared to laugh. 7:30-9pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Eric Leadbetter Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. 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. A $10 suggested donation will be collected at the event, with proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm. No cover.

Greg’s Grill The Dust Devils A rootsy trio that defies musical boundaries with their unique blend of old blues, country, swing and originals. Prepare for a toe-tapping, soul-stirring good time. Stu Kinzel (guitar/reso), Jim Roy (guitar/mandolin) Devilette Maggie J (bass). 5-7pm. 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.

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 530pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is 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! 6:30-8:30pm. 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.

Silver Moon Brewing Kendall Lujan Portland, Oregon based artist, Kendall Lujan embarks on her second full length album “My Heart Needs Love” coming 2026. A new sound after her debut record “Lucky Penny’ released February 21st, 2025. 7-10pm.

Tetherow Resort Summer Live Music Live music featuring local musicians at the Tetherow Resort Clubhouse Patio. Custom food menu, full bar, free wine or spirits tasting. 5-7pm. Free.

11

Thursday

Alpenglow Park Alpenglow Nights Experience the Magic of Music and Community Gather your friends and family for Alpenglow Nights: five unforgettable Thursday nights this summer at Alpenglow Park in SE Bend! 6pm. Free.

Bevel Craft Brewing Live Music at Bevel Catch talented local artists on the patio, grab a bite from our 4 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! Located in the Historic Lucas House Living Room for winter. 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 Franchot Tone Trio Take a pitch-perfect pinch of vintage reggae and dub, a sun-fried splash of laid-back SoCal pop-rock, and a heaping helping of Meters-style funk and soul, and you’ve got Tone’s brew. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

The Domino Room Official Reggae Rise Up Preparty with Tribe Of I, The Alley Kats, & Rubbah Tree Tribe of I is a Salt Lake City-based reggae group that came together in 2012. They have shared the stage with many acts including Groundation, Israel Vibration, Rootz Underground, John Brown’s Body, Anthony B, Fortunate Youth, and Emanuel Jah. 8-11:30pm. $24.28.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard: Heller Highwater Trio Led by the powerhouse Heather Drakulich, whose soulful R&B vocals bring every song to life. Heller Highwater Trio delivers an electrifying mix of Rock, Blues, Country, and Pop 5-8pm. $18.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Open Mic Monthly Open Mic gives Sisters Country musicians a place to hear each other, cross-pollinate, and build musical community. For music lovers, it’s a chance to see a variety of local talent, in a lively atmosphere. Food and shareables available. 6-8pm. Free.

Hardtails Bar & Grill DJ Chris Ossig DJ Chris Ossig will be bringing the energy to The Yard with favorite country classics, today’s biggest hits, and special requests all Rodeo Week long. Get ready to celebrate The Biggest Little Show in the World. 9pm-1am. Free.

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

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

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Initiative Brewing - The Hub Karaoke at Initiative in Redmond! They 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. 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

The Lot Breanna Gonzalez Born in Bend and raised all over Oregon, her musical journey has been shaped by the beautiful landscapes and diverse sounds of the Pacific Northwest. she writes and performs original songs that weave together a mix of folk. 6-8pm. free.

M&J Tavern Jordan Madsen Duo Jordan Madsen Duo is coming back Thursday June 11th, bringing a unique blend of blues, jazz, soul and rock that will make visitors want to change their plans so they can stick around! 9pm. Free/Tips encouraged.

Mountain Burger Thursday Night Live at Mountain Burger! Evan Mullins at Mountain Burger for Thursday Night Live! Great music, food & company! 6-8pm. Free.

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

River’s Place Jackpine Jukebox Original songs and carefully chosen covers at the intersection of rockabilly, cowpunk, folk, and the occasional sea shanty. Well-worn, honest American roots music. 6-8pm. Free.

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

Volcanic Theatre Pub HR & The Human Rights Movement Volcanic Theatre & 1988 Entertainment Presents: H.R. & The Human Rights Movement with special guests Lion Heights and the Rusty Frets. Genre - Reggae 7pm. $25.

12 Friday

Bend Cider Co. John Shipe & Lilli Warona Listen to folk/Americana stylings of duo, John Shipe & Lilli Warona, as they perform on our beautiful backyard garden stage! Enjoy award-winning ciders, cold beer, wine, & n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome. Kid and dog-friendly. Free! 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Dry Canyon Stampede Dry Canyon Stampede is a seasoned 7pc Country Western band based in Central Oregon. Playing Classic to Contemporary favorites, featuring 5 vocalists that cover everything from Cash to Brothers Osborn. Patsy to Miranda. 8-10pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Heller Highwater Heller Highwater is a five piece dance band with roots in R&B and Classic Rock. Where ever Heller is playing there is a party going on. 8-10pm. Free. Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center Reggae Rise Up Oregon Festival 2026 3 days of music, camping, food, merch, art, activities & good vibes! Performances by Rebelution, Dirty Heads, 311, Iration, SOJA, Tash Sultana, & 30+ More Bands! -14, Noon-11pm. $100.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Station Camp Music, dancing, food, drinks, pretzels. What more could one need for the perfect night? 6-9pm. $25.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard: Station Camp Get ready to groove to the best dance hits from legendary artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Garth Brooks, AC/DC, Johnny Cash, ZZ Top, Black Crowes, Don Henley, The Beatles... 6-9pm. $25.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Friday Nights with Tony Lompa Tony Lompa brings the vibe to Frankie’s most Fridays. If the weather’s nice, he plays in the courtyard. If not, he plays upstairs at Frankie’s. 6-8pm. Free.

General Duffy’s Waterhole Joe Nichols Multi-Platinum Country Singer Joe Nichols is coming to the High Desert this June! Enjoy some drinks, food and good ol’ country music with friends (or by yourself!) 8:30pm. $55-$125.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Pendleton Highway Pendleton Highway takes over the biggest outdoor stage in Sisters, bringing an unforgettable night of country music, high-energy entertainment, and all the classics you love to dance to. get ready to dance the night away under the beautiful Sisters sky. 9pm-1am. $10.

M&J Tavern Profit Drama w/ Sorry It’s Over More fun coming this way on a Friday that will leave audiences entertained with music and artistic exhibitions. Guaranteed to have people watching for what’s next while listening to the messages behind the sounds. 21 and over. 9pm. Free/Tips encouraged.

CALENDAR EVENTS

M&J Tavern Profit Drama and Sorry It’s Over More Fun coming this way on Friday. June 12th is going to leave the audience entertained. The event features music and artistic exhibitions. 9pm to midnight. 21 and over. 9pm. Free/Tips encouraged.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Brett Dennen Volcanic Theatre Pub and 1988 Entertainment Presents: Brett Dennen - Art Is Life (An Evening With) Friday, June 12th 2026 This show is seated. Doors @ 7PM - Show Starts @ 8PM 7pm. $32-$48.

13 Saturday

Austin Kitchen James Townsend Troubadour James Townsend plays a sweet, soulful mix of originals and classic covers. 5-7pm. Free. 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 from 6-9 PM. Adults, kids and good dogs welcome. 6-9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Sweet Motor This Central Oregon five-piece offers up a captivating blend of Rock and Blues, with Southern Rock flavorings, with a hint of R&B vibes. Expect to hear vivid, blues-driven guitars, honest and soulful vocals, a well-tuned rhythm section. 8-10pm. Free.

Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center Reggae Rise Up Oregon Festival 2026 3 days of music, camping, food, merch, art, activities & good vibes! Performances by Rebelution, Dirty Heads, 311, Iration, SOJA, Tash Sultana, & 30+ More Bands! June 12-14, Noon11pm. $100.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards The Junebugs They are said to have a Janis Joplin/ Neil Young quality about them. If you enjoy those artists you sure will love them. Enjoy music, treats and drinks all while enjoying the beautiful vineyard setting. 6-9pm. TBD.

Hardtails Bar & Grill Pendleton Highway Pendleton Highway takes over the biggest outdoor stage in Sisters, bringing an unforgettable night of country music, high-energy entertainment, and all the classics to dance to. Get ready to dance the night away under the beautiful Sisters sky. 9pm-1am. $10.

M&J Tavern CoWorkers w/ David Von Schlegell Melody and Harmonies are what this Saturday evening is going to be all about! David Von Schlegell opens up for the CoWorkers 9pm to midnight 9pm. Free/Tips encouraged.

River’s Place Saturday Jazz Sessions T5 Jazz led by Thomas Tsuneta. 6-8pm. Free.

The Old Iron Works A Benefit for Megan Marie Myers with Joel Chadd & Friends Enjoy Live Music from Joel Chadd & Friends on the Patio!- Music starts at 6:30pm. Enter the raffle to win an Old Bend Iron Works gift bag and Shopping Spree! Bid to win her only available original painting! 5-9pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard SoDown w/ Oddly Eazy Genre - EDM This show is 21+ 5pm.

14 Sunday

The Commonwealth Pub Aaron Golay & The Original Sin Rooted in the soul and grit of Southern Idaho, Aaron Golay & The Original Sin deliver high-energy, emotionally engaging live performances that seamlessly blend Americana, Roots, Rock, and Soul. 4-6pm. Free.

Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center Reggae Rise Up Oregon Festival 2026 3 days of music, camping, food, merch, art, activities & good vibes! Performances by Rebelution, Dirty Heads, 311, Iration, SOJA, Tash Sultana, & 30+ More Bands! June 12-14, Noon11pm. $100.

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 in GoodLife’s Beergarden every Sunday 4-6 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 at Initiative Brewing/ The Hub in Redmond 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.

Maragas Winery Sam Miller Sam has headlined multiple major comedy clubs including The Laugh Factory in Chicago. Sam is a recurring guest and has been heard by an estimated 2.5 million listeners on the nationally syndicated “Bob & Tom Radio Show." 7-9:30pm. $30.

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

River’s Place Amanda Wrenn & Patrick Leonard American Folk and Blues Roots mixed with traditional and contemporary Celtic songs. 5-7pm. 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.

16 Tuesday

Beach Hut Deli Tip of the Tongue Trivia Tip of the Tongue trivia is 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 Cellar Open Mic Open Mic is hosted by Mari of the band, Mari & The Dream! This is an intimate night of sharing music in a welcoming environment and supportive community. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Elise Franklin Quartet - Tuesday Jazz The Elise Franklin Quartet, a group of experienced musicians playing jazz standards and Latin, is led by Elise Franklin on vocals and Jack Krouscup on piano. Always a treat. 7-9pm. Free.

Elements Public House Trivia (&Taco) Tuesdays Quiz fans of Redmond: bring the crew this week for UKB live trivia & more! Delicious

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

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

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

Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard The Crane Wives Genre - indie folk 6pm. $37.89.

17 Wednesday

The Astro Lounge Karaoke with Christina 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 Commonwealth Pub Andrew Lion ‘līder|lāder’ - Pre-Release Show A celebration of the digital release of Lion’s collaboration with renowned trumpet player, Cuong Vu (Pat Metheny Group). 7:30-10pm. $20 in advance/$30 at door.

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

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 Trance Folk

Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in the garden from 6-8pm. 6-8pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters

Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & An intimate music series featuring handpicked performers by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt. A $10 suggested donation will be collected at the event, with proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Associa-

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 530pm to get a spot to play! 5:30-8pm. Free.

Portello Lounge Music Bingo Music Bingo is 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! 6:30-8:30pm. 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.

Silver Moon Brewing School’s Out Rock Show w/ Young Guns Celebrate the start of summer with youth rock band Young Guns! Young Guns has quickly developed into one of the most advanced and hi-energy bands in the Music Flow rock band program. They love to perform bold music between 80’s arena rock, 90’s grunge, and beyond! 6-9pm. $12.24.

Tetherow Resort Summer Live Music Live music featuring local musicians at the Tetherow Resort Clubhouse Patio. Custom food menu, full bar, free wine or spirits tasting. 5-7pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard John Craigie & Blind Pilot This is a music event featuring Indie Folk tunes! 6pm. $48.30.

MUSIC

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.

Breedlove Guitars Warehouse Sale & Grand Opening Breedlove Guitars announces the Grand Opening of its new permanent retail space. Celebrate with a one-day Warehouse Sale on Saturday, June 13th, 2026, from 10AM to 4PM. There will be free food and beer, up to 50% off select models, guitar giveaway raffle, and free hats for first 100 guests. June 13, 10am-4pm. Breedlove Guitars, 61573 American Loop, Bend. Contact: 541-385-8339. info@breedloveguitars. com. Free.

Central Oregon Flute Ensemble Enjoy an hour of music courtesy local musicians. The Central Oregon Flute Ensemble (COFE) is the largest flute performance group in Oregon outside of the Portland area, comprising upwards of 20 members from all backgrounds and all walks of life. June 13, 3-4:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-3121032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

LIVE AT SILVER MOON BREWING

CO Flute Ensemble Spring Concert

The Central Oregon Flute Ensemble (COFE) is the largest flute performance group in Oregon outside of the Portland area, comprising upwards of 20 members from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Find out more about the group at www.ryanzwahlen.com/cofe June 13, 2-3pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

HDCM Concert Series High Desert Chamber Music’s 18th season, presented by Washington Trust Bank and Lynch Murphy McLane LLP, concludes with the Tekalli Duo. This dynamic sibling violin and piano duo captivates audiences by their technical mastery as well as their shared musical intuition. June 14, 4:30-6:30pm. Contact: 5413063988. mark@highdesertchambermusic. com. $49.

Joyful Lane Music benefit concert for Obsidian Middle School Music Program Dry Canyon Club is proud to host Joyful Lane Music performing a fundraising concert to benefit Obsidian Middle School Music Program. A percentage of all sales through DCC will be donated, and Joyful Lane will donate 100% of tips. June 10, 6-8pm. Dry Canyon Club, 1865 NW Hemlock Ave, Redmond. Free.

One Night In Memphis This tribute to that memorable night in Memphis when Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded at Sam Phillips’ Sun Studios features nationally acclaimed cast members who have an uncanny sound, look and feel of the original legends. June 13, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-317-0700. info@towertheatre.org. $32-$52 (plus $8 Historic Preservation Fee). Tab Benoit w/ Ghalia Volt Band I Hear Thunder marks the long-awaited return of four-time Grammy-nominated artist Tab Benoit. Renowned for his distinctive guitar tone and Otis-Redding-esque voice, Benoit has been a captivating figure in the roots music world for over thirty years. June 11, 7:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-3170700. info@towertheatre.org. $42-$62 (plus $8 Historic Preservation Fee).

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 Milonga Tango in Bend holds its monthly Milonga (social dance). Enjoy music, the welcoming community, and the genuine social connection of Argentine Tango. No partner necessary! Second Saturday of every month, 7-9:30pm. Through Dec. 12. Sons of Norway Hall, 549 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend. Contact: 818-207-1363. info@tangoinbend.com. $10.

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.

Learn Argentine Tango Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Tango in Bend is welcoming and connects people through elegant and passionate dance form. They offer beginner and intermediate classes followed by practice every Wednesday. No partner needed. Check tangoinbend.com for the week’s class schedule. 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.

THURSDAY, JUNE 11th

FRIDAY, JUNE 12th

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 us Wednesdays at The Coyote in downtown Bend! Partner dance lessons 6–7 p.m. with Seth and McKenna, line dance lessons 7–8 p.m. 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.

FILM EVENTS

Pride Film Screening: I Want Your Sex When fresh-faced Elliot lands an exciting job for renowned artist, icon and provocateur Erika Tracy, his fantasies come true as Erika taps him to become her sexual muse. But Elliot soon finds himself out of his depth as Erika takes him on a journey more profound than he ever could have imagined, into a world of sex, obsession, power, betrayal and murder. June 11, 7pm. Regal Old Mill & IMAX, 680 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend. $17.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Altar Workshop at the Bend Yoga Festival Begin with a grounding ceremony led by Pine & Prism Wellness, then create a personal clay altar or sacred object inspired by your experience at the Bend Yoga Festival. No experience needed. All pieces will be fired, glazed, and mailed by La Luce Studio within four weeks. June 14, 1:30-4pm. Pine and Prism Wellness Collective, 856 Northwest Bond Street #Suite 202, Bend. Contact: 415-308-4538. krista@ lalucestudio.com. Prices vary.

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.

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.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14th

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.

DIY Drop-In Get creative at FREAK’N ART every Saturday and Sunday! Attendees can drop in or reserve a spot to make a fun project—no experience or supplies needed. Attendees will enjoy a relaxed two-hour session; the reservation fee goes toward the final project. Come with friends and let creativity shine! Please note that DIY Drop-In will not run on the following dates due to other scheduled workshops: 04/04, 04/05, 04/18, 05/03, 05/10, 06/14, 06/20, and 06/21. Saturdays-Sundays, 11:30am-5:30pm. Through June 28. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541 508 7438. hellofreaknart@gmail. com. $25.

Dragonfly Farm and Arts Summer

Camp Preview Visit If your 8-13 year old child is interested in Dragonfly Farm and Arts, come meet us, check out our farm, do some making and learn more about our upcoming summer camps! Please RSVP in advance. Sat, May 30, 1-2pm and Sun, June 14, 1-2pm. Ann Boyd, 18270, Rock Springs rd, Bend. Contact: 312-5047330. dragonflyfarmandarts@gmail.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 your 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.

Full Color - Barbara Cella Solo Show

Opening Known for her energetic paintings of Central Oregon landscapes, Barbara Cella will share and discuss her exhibition of more than 30 works. The exhibit will continue until August 30, 2026. Access is limited after the reception as the facility is used by many groups. June 11, 6-7:30pm. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon, 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd, Bend, OR 97703, Bend. Contact: 925-878-9723. barbara@barbaracella.com. Free.

Intro to 3D Printing for Adults Always wanted to try out 3D printing? Curious about exactly how something gets from an idea to a real world object? Intimidated by the whole “design and create” part? This is the perfect class for people who want to get into 3D printing. June 15, 6-8:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $139.

Intro to MIG Welding

This hands-on class is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a solid refresher in metal cutting and welding. Students will get plenty of guided practice time to build confidence with the equipment and practice. June 17, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Janice Rhodes’ Encaustic Paintings Janice Rhodes’ encaustic paintings are featured in The Oxford Hotel lobby during the month of June. June 1-28, 9am-Noon. The Oxford Hotel, 10 Northwest Minnesota Avenue, Bend. Contact: 541-382-8436. Free.

Kids 3D Printing Workshop (Ages 8-17) This class will cover everything from how a 3D printer works to creating and printing out custom designs. Students will be directed to the proper software to add to their own computer for future self-learning. June 17, 5:30-8:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $99.

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.

Makers Night Makers night is a crafty get together for everyone! Each session we will feature a new craft with step by step guidance! Fri, March 13, 6-8pm, Fri, April 10, 6-8pm, Fri, May 8, 6-8pm and Fri, June 12, 6-8pm. Craft Kitchen & Brewery, (no address), (no city). Contact: 9713407897. Machellepatten@gmail.com. 16.88.

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.

Paint Your Dream Terrarium Paint A Dream Terrarium Choose from one of three wood panel canvas shapes: Dome, bottle, triangle (based on limited quantities) Create a dreamscape or add cute plants or fungi. Some pre-stenciled elements will be provided. June 15, 5-7pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-760-0723. Chelsea.childers95@gmail.com. $50.

Radial Printed Totes – Family Art

Camp This is a hands-on tote bag printing party the whole family will love! Explore fun design techniques and unleash creativity, while getting to take home a custom tote. Beginner-friendly, all materials included—plus a family discount! June 14, 1:30-3pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@ gmail.com. $50.

Second Saturday - Meet the Artists

Featured artists will be demonstrating their process. Wine, beer, and nibbles will be served as visitors mingle with the artists and browse the latest pieces. All are welcome. Second Saturday of every month, 4-7pm. Artists’ Gallery Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr. Suite 19, Sunriver. Contact: 541593-4382. info@artistsgallerysunriver.com. Free.

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.

Sewing Garments 102: Zero Waste Shorts - 2 Day Workshop Get ready for summer by sewing up a pair of shorts! Participants will leave this class with a pair of comfy, elastic waist shorts and the know-how to use the same technique to make pants. June 16, 6-8:30pm and June 17, 6-8:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $289.

Sip & Sculpt A relaxed handbuilding pottery workshop. Sip complimentary wine while creating pinch pots, bud vases, appetizer plates, or wine tumblers. Beginner-friendly and social, this creative experience includes all clay, tools, glazing, firing, and light snacks. June 17, 5-7pm. The Winery at Manzanita- Bend, 550 sw Industrial Way #194, Bend. Contact: 415-308-4538. krista@ lalucestudio.com. $100.

Stained Glass 101: Sun Drops - 2 Week Workshop Warm light, glowing colors, and simple elegant designs. This class is a perfect introduction to stained glass. Students will learn the copper foil stained glass process. Mon, June 8, 6-8pm and Mon, June 15, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $219.

Stamp Making Learn the art of lineocut with Rachel and make unique stamps. June 10, 6-8pm. Learn the art of linocut with Rachel and make your very own stamps. June 10, 6-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6708. info@ bendteal.com. $50.

Stories of Our Favorite Places: Landscapes From the Heart Plein Air Painters of Oregon presents paintings of places dear to the artists’ hearts. Each piece includes a story about the pictured landscape, providing viewers a rare glimpse into the intimate relationship between painter and landscape. Mondays-Fridays, 1-4pm and Sundays, 11am-1pm. Through June 28. Nancy McGrath Green Gallery, 18139 Cottonwood Rd, Sunriver. Free.

Studio Archive Sale: Making Space For A New Body Of Art Local artist Natasha Bacca is releasing works from her studio archive to make space for a new body of work blending art and advocacy. Her work has been collected internationally and featured in major collections and on television. These acclaimed artworks are finally ready for new homes at clearance prices. May 21-June 18, Noon-8pm. Prices vary.

Turn Wine Bottles Into Drinking Glasses - Date Night, DIY-Style Grab that one special person and spend a fun, hands-on evening creating something together! In this class, participants will transform empty bottles into custom drinking glasses—perfect for the kitchen cupboard or as one-of-a-kind gifts. Bring four empty bottles to class—wine, beer, soda, or jars all work great! June 12, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $129.

Turning Green Wood on the Lathe Turning “green” wood (wood of a high moisture content) is a fun and valuable skill to develop and gain mastery in lathe work. Green wood suitable for turning is relatively easy to find, turn, and opens up a larger inventory of wood to choose from. Mon, June 8, 1-4pm and Mon, June 15, 1-4pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave.com. $339.

Upcycled Fashion Nite: SPORTSWEAR

The best collab! The Open Arts Center x Fashion Workshop facilitating Upcycled garment creation! Supplies provided. Participants bring sportswear to work on! All ages, youth under 13 need to be chaperoned. June 17, 5:30-7:30pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd Street, Bend. Contact: 503-481-8403. community@fashionforeveryone.org. $40.

Watercolor Show! Watercolor artists Helen Brown, Liz Haberman and Jacqueline Newbold are showing their works at Premiere Property Group in June. The artists will be available to meet First Friday art lovers on June from 5-7 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 9am-5pm. Through June 26. Premiere Property Group, 25 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-241-6860. Free.

Welding 102: Make Your Own Project4-Week Course Creating solid weld joints in multiple positions is the foundation for all metal projects. This course is designed for students to increase their knowledge of MIG welding and joint construction. Tue, June 9, 6-8pm, Tue, June 16, 6-8pm, Tue, June 23, 6-8pm and Tue, June 30, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $499.

Wood Turning 101 - Introduction to Turning on the Wood Lathe Learn the basics of the wood lathe, one of the most popular tools in the wood shop. In this class students will create an object from beginning to end which involves mounting a wood blank to the lathe, rounding, shaping, sanding, and finishing. June 17, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $179.

Woodshop Basics One - Table Saw, Chop Saw and Band Saw This is the class people need to get started in the woodshop. Learn proper setup and technique with all the tools and help at student’s disposal. June 10, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $169.

Woodshop Basics Two - Router, Planer and Jointer Fully equipped woodworking shop with tools at students’ disposal. This is the class to get started in the woodshop. June 15, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $169.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Ardunio Electronic Projects Showcase

The Bend Arduino Group will host an open-house style showcase featuring hands-on electronics projects created by local makers. This is a friendly opportunity to learn and get connected. June 13, 3-5pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-3395. emilyc@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

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.

Explore the Wonders of Whychus Creek Whychus Creek runs through Sisters and once dried up in most summers. This tour traces two decades of restoration that revived yearround flow, explains why snowmelt-fed streams are vulnerable during drought, and explores what reliable water means for fish, farms, and the town. June 16, 3-6pm. Sisters City Creekside Park, Hwy 20 and Jefferson St., Sisters. Contact: 541-382-4077. marisa@deschutesriver.org. Free.

Hats Off to History A journey through the nation’s evolving identity, exploring how women’s headwear – from colonial bonnets to modern baseball caps – mirrored shifts in fashion, freedom, and the American spirit, celebrating 250 years of iconic style. Attendees are encouraged to have fun and wear a hat! June 11, 2-3pm. Sisters Library, 110 North Cedar Street, Sisters. Contact: 541-312-3395. emilyc@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Hollinshead-Matson Homestead Museum Open House The Hollinshead-Matson Homestead Museum offers visitors a look back to life in Central Oregon in the 1940s. Tour the museum and hear stories about life in Bend from Sharron Rosengarth, one of the Matson family children that grew up in the house. June 13, 10am-1pm. Hollinshead Park, 1235 NE Jones Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-389-7275. info@bendparksandrec.org. Free.

Why COCC? An overview of Central Oregon Community College and how it can support your personal, academic, and career goals. June 15, 5:30-6:30pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 541-3121032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

WORDS

The Craft of Writing Wednesdays Learn the technical nuts and bolts of creative writing one craft element at a time. Bring a notebook, pen/pencil, and an eagerness to learn. Open to fiction, nonfiction, memoir, essay, and experimental writers. Facilitated by Meghan Robins Teeter on behalf of the Open Arts Center, Bend’s home for creative community. Third Wednesday of every month, 7-8:30pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Free. Hello! Storytime Stories, movement and a touch of music with 0-5 year olds; geared toward those younger ages. There will be a heavy emphasis on fun, so bring those listening ears and a smile for a fun half hour with Kathy! June 10, 10:30-11am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-3066564. 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.

Mystery Book Club Discuss Crown City by Naomi Hirahara. June 17, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Nonfiction Book Club Discuss Native Nations: A Millennium in North America by Kathleen Duval. June 12, 9-10am. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop. com. Free.

RAB Middles Book Club Discuss Science Comics: Bridges: Engineering Masterpieces and Science Comics: Crows: Genius Birds. June 15, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-3066564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Raging Writers / Spoken Words One hour of inspiration and creative writing, followed by one hour of Open Mic. All welcome. Restaurant is closed for service—no food or bev, but plenty of juice. Second Sunday of every month, 2-4pm. Spork, 937 NW Newport Ave., Bend. Free.

A Walk in the Park, Kevin Fedarko in conversation with Tim Neville Kevin Fedarko, NYT bestselling author of The Emerald Mile hosts the paperback release of A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon. He will be in conversation with Tim Neville. June 11, 6:30-7:30pm. Summit High School Auditorium, 2855 NW Clearwater Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. $30.

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: 978771-4635. claire@theopenartscenter.org. Free.

ETC.

Herbal First Aid 101: Tending with Plants Herbal First Aid 101 class provides participants with foundational knowledge on using natural remedies for minor injuries and ailments. This class covers essential medicinal plants, their healing properties, and practical applications for cuts, burns, insect bites, digestive issues, and respiratory support. June 14, 4-6pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $30-$50.

Steeped in Ethics: A Journey for the Massage Professional This class is an engaging and reflective course designed for massage therapists who wish to deepen their understanding of ethical principles while enjoying a relaxed and contemplative environment. This class focuses on exploring the foundational ethics that guide professional practice in massage therapy, ensuring that practitioners uphold the highest standards. June 17, 6-8pm. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 541-728-2368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary.net. $50.

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 at The Commonwealth Pub 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, 11am-11pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. Free.

2026 Soccer World Cup Kick-Off Party Mexico vs South Africa gets the party started at 12:00pm, with doors opening at 11:30am. The pub will have exclusive drink specials, gear, live music, and food provided by @sharkmouthfajitas and our own food cart. June 11, 11am-11pm. The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr., Bend. 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.

Ladies Climb Night Helping women and non binary folk feel at home in the climbing community. Calling all from seasoned pros to those who have never stepped foot in a harness. Let’s empower each other, conquer new heights, and have a blast while doing it! Tue, March 18, 6:30-8:30pm and Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Bend Rock Gym, 1182 SE Centennial Ct., Bend. Contact: 541-944-1989. madeline@ ladiesclimbingcoalition.com. $15.

Reading the Forest: Tree ID, Ecology, & Mindfulness at the Metolius A guided walk at the Metolius Preserve. Learn basic tree identification, explore forest ecosystems, and practice mindfulness while walking up to 2 miles on mostly flat, natural trails. Discover forests’ ecological and personal benefits. June 14, 9amNoon. Metolius Preserve, near Camp Sherman, Sisters. Contact: 541-516-0934. jenna.deibel@ oregonstate.edu. $5.

VOLUNTEER

Become a Business Mentor Help businesses prosper! Share your professional and business expertise. Become a volunteer mentor with SCORE in Central Oregon. Our 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 https://www.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.

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

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 Project Day - Trail work

The group will help taking care of some the community’s favorite parks and trails! Volunteers will help staff with the closure/removal of social trails and assist with trail reinforcement/restoration work. June 13, 9-Midnight. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: 541-389-7275. info@bendparksandrec.org. Free.

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 us with: client reception, food pickups, deliveries, truck loading & unloading, client pantry help, and pantry stocking. Please apply on our website.. thanks very much! 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.

by Johann Strauss Jr.

Featuring homes in Eagle Crest - West Ridge Assistance League of Bend presents

Saturday, June 20, 2026,10 am to 3 pm

Tour homes with exquisite kitchens

Benefiting children and adults in Deschutes County

Tickets are $35 in advance (online); $40 day of (at the event)

Learn more: AssistanceLeagueBend.org

Volunteer, Feed the Community, Nourish Yourself! They have lots of volunteer opportunities - servers, cooks, drivers, & more. Visit their 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 www. hsco.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Humane Society Thrift Shop, 61220 S. Highway 97, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3840. abigail@hsco.org.

Wilderness On Tap Friends of Central Cascades Wilderness host this trivia, a bite, and a brew! Current volunteers and prospective volunteers welcome! June 16, 5:30-7:31pm. Ballers & Brews, 20869 Redside Ct., Bend. Free.

GROUPS + MEETUPS

Bend Chess and Go Club Casual gathering for players of Chess and Go/Baduk/Weiqi. Informal and welcoming to players of all skill levels. We love teaching new people! Thursdays, 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 Bend Monthly noon gathering where professional women of Central Oregon connect over meaningful conversations. Held on the second Thursday of every month, this exclusive event fosters business growth, social networking, and genuine friendships. Seating is limited to 12. Registration is required. June 11, 11:45am-1pm. Currents at the Riverhouse, 3075 N. Hwy 97, Bend. Contact: 541-410-1894. info@connectw.org. Prices vary.

ET Expert Lab—Leadership & Teambuilding in a Digital World This session helps us adopt a “tech-ready” mindset—people-first, tool-supported—while developing communication habits and collaboration strategies suited for hybrid and AI-enabled workplaces. Participants explore real tools, discuss modern leadership challenges, and walk away with a plan to collaborate and lead confidently in the digital age. June 10, 3:45-6pm. Partners in Care, 2611 NE Courtney Dr., Bend. $35/ $25 for chamber members.

Ice Breaker Ice Breaker is a playful social night built around the ancient ritual of gathering around water — hot tubs, cold plunges, good music, and easy conversation that actually goes somewhere. For more info: flux-lounge.com/ ice-breaker/ June 11, 6:30-9pm. Flux Thermal Lounge, 70 SW Century Dr., Suite 145, Bend. Prices vary.

Monthly Community Drum Circle An inclusive, accessible community drum circle designed for ages 8+ (with parent) & up. This is a guided drum circle, welcoming to both beginners and experienced drummers alike. Drums & other percussion are provided (or bring your own).

Second Saturday of every month, 10:30am-Noon Through Aug. 8. Unity Community of Central Oregon, 63645 Scenic Drive, Bend. Contact: 6505757673. hhdrumcircles@gmail.com. $10-20 suggested donation (no one turned away for lack of funds).

Monthly Pinball Tournament The Capitol’s Monthly Pinball Tournament is here! This 2nd Thursday event is brought ] by Summit Arcade PNW. All ages & skill levels. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place cash & prizes. $5 entry + cost of games. First time players free entry! Second Thursday of every month, 6-9pm. The Capitol, 190 NW Oregon Ave., Bend. Contact: summitarcadepnw@gmail. com. $5 + Cost of games.

Oregon BHA Gear Garage Sale & Draw

Results Hangout Controlled hunt draw results are out soon! Buy or donate used gear and hang out with the local public land community. June 13, 2-6pm. Second Wind Sports Bend, 725 NW Columbia St, Bend. Contact: 330-391-1138. oregonbha@gmail.com. Free.

Paper Embroidery Learn the art and joy of embroidery on paper with Lindsey Loughry. June 12, 6-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-6686708. info@bendteal.com. $45.

Queer night at Flux Everyone belongs at Flux. A safe space to be who you are. Grab a cup of tea, soak the relaxing waters, and let the conversation flow. Visit flux-lounge.com for more info. Third Wednesday of every month, 6-9pm. Through July 17. Flux Thermal Lounge, 70 SW Century Dr., Suite 145, Bend. Prices vary.

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.

Ribbon Cutting at Pine Springs Health & Dermatology Health Specialists! This is a ribbon cutting event at Pine Springs Health & Dermatology Health Specialists! Enjoy appetizers, drinks, music and a raffle! June 11, 5:30-8pm. Pine Springs Health, 711 NE Irving Ave, Bend. Free.

Rise Up, Sing Out Communities all over the country are hosting watch parties on Sunday (https://riseupsingout.com/), but they are gathering Saturday June 13th to warm up, rise up and sing out. June 13, 2:30-3:30pm. Peace Corner, Corner of NW Greenwood Avenue and NW Wall Street, Bend. Contact: 541-389-1514. Free. 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.

Silent Book Club Silent Book Club at The Cellar. Here’s how it works: 6:00-6:30pm: Get cozy with food / beverages and your book of choice. 6:30-7:30pm: Personal reading time. 7:30-8:00pm: Mingle with fellow book lovers, keep reading, or head home to rest. Second Sunday of every month, 6-8pm. The Cellar, 206 NW Oregon Ave., Bend. Contact: 5413821645. info@ porterbrewingco.com. Free.

Singles Speed Dating and Mingle (ages 21-39ish) Speed dating for singles 21–39ish with Epiphany Match + Mckenna at Coyote! Meet singles, sip, snack, and spark a real connection. June 11, 6-8pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Contact: 406-672-3861. info@epiphanymatch.com. $10.

Singles Speed Dating at Testimony in Redmond (ages 40+) Speed Dating: Meet fun, like-minded singles in a relaxed, welcoming setting! Enjoy laughter, great conversations & real connections. June 10, 6-8pm. Testimony Wine Bar, 307 NW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 406-672-3861. info@epiphanymatch. com. $10.

Super Science Trivia! Happening at the “Hop Mahal” at Worthy Brewing. Test your science knowledge, win prizes and have fun. June 16, 7-9pm. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: staff@skeptoid.com. Free.

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

EVENTS + MARKETS

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. 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.

Second Sunday Vintage Market at Gathered Wares This event features the cutest vintage markets in town! Live DJ, local, rotating, vintage vendors and new finds in the shop. Second Sunday of every month, 10am2pm. Through Sept. 13. Gathered Wares, 50 SE Scott St. Unit 2, Bend. Free.

WaterWise Landscape Field Day Simple Steps for Smarter Landscapes. Q&A with local experts at 9:15 “Balancing the Needs of a Modern Landscape in Central Oregon.” Mini workshops throughout the event on smart controllers, irrigation, pollinator habitat, healthy soil biology and plant selection. Visit local vendor booths. Win raffle prizes! June 13, 9am-1pm. Hollinshead Barn, 1237 NE Jones Rd., Bend. Contact: 541213-4480. conservation@bendoregon.gov. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

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.

Art Play Toddlers and preschoolers dive into process-based art through sensory stations, open-ended exploration, and hands-on creative play. With rotating themes and art stations each week, children develop independence and enhance fine motor skills. Thursdays-Fridays, 10-11am. Through June 12. Two Suns Art Studio + MakerSpace, 70 SW Century Drive, Bend. Contact: 541892-6471. Briony@twosunsartstudio.com. $21. 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! Things get a little weird—in the best way. A balloon artist creates full-blown masterpieces right at visitors’ tables: dragons, aliens, and much more. . Tips encouraged. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Initiative Brewing - The Hub, 424 NW Fifth St., Redmond. Contact: 541-527-4380. followtherabbit@initiativebrew.com. Free.

Bushcraft and Wildcrafting Summer Camps Summer Camp Themes include: Archery, Projectiles, Bushcraft, Wildcrafting, and Nature Connection. Age groups 9-12, 11-13, or 13-15. Camps 3-5 Days, depending on the session. Availability Mid-June through Mid- July. See each week’s registration page for that week’s info. Limited spots remain! June 16, 9am-3pm. Bend, RSVP for address, Bend. Contact: info@ nighthawknaturalistschool.com. $250.

Children’s Coloring & Activity Book Launch & Art Party with Cita, The Painting Horse A delightful launch party celebrating the Sunnyside Up Farm Coloring and Activity Book! This event promises to be a funfilled day for children and parents alike, featuring exciting activities and special guest, Cita, the painting Horse. Light snacks and juice boxes will be served. June 14, 1:30-3:30pm. Sunnyside Up Farm, 63265 Silvis Rd, Bend. Contact: 541-4200794. info@sunnysideupbend.com. $55. 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. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-5pm and Saturdays, 11am-4pm. Through Aug. 22. A. R. Bowman Museum, 246 N Main St, Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean.briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free.

Family Art Play This is a special, family edition of our most popular class, Art Play! An open-exploration art and sensory experience designed for ages 9 months-6 years, with older siblings and high sensory seekers always welcome. Sibling discounts available at checkout. Dress for mess! Wednesdays, 4-5pm. Through June 10. Two Suns Art Studio + MakerSpace, 70 SW Century Drive, Bend. Contact: (541) 8926471. Briony@twosunsartstudio.com. $21.

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH THE TASTE OF CENTRAL OREGON

WHAT REAL GIN TASTES LIKE SINCE 1997

“ The Perfect Gin” —Bon Appetite

Kid’s Yoga at Namaspa! Kids Yoga Mondays at Namaspa! Our 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 while their kids spend time with other kids and one of our certified kids yoga instructors 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. Kids stay active while parents enjoy food, drinks or mocktails, pool tables, TVs, and full bar seating. Spacious dance floor and family-friendly fun in downtown Bend. 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. They will feel empowered as they improve speed, increase strength, become more coordinated, and enhance athletic abilities. 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: 541-2413919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.

Kids Ninja After-School Camp Wednesdays are packed with climbing, parkour, timed races, and team games on our epic Ninja Warrior course! Ages 6–10. Build strength, speed, and confidence while having a blast and making new ninja friends. Wednesdays, 1:15-3:45pm. Through June 17. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend. com. $142.

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. June 15-18, 1-4pm. 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.

Nature Kids: Wild Inventors! 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. June 10, 2:30-4pm. Al Moody Park, 2225 NE Daggett Ln., Bend. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust. org. Free.

Ninja Night Fun, team-building games, Ninja Warrior challenges, and thrilling timed races through our amazing obstacle course. This is a great opportunity for Ninjas to work on their balance, and coordination. Age 6-13 Saturdays, 5:30-8:30pm. Through June 20. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $42.

Prenatal Yoga 6-Week Series Rejuvenate, relax, and recharge while building community with other expectant moms! Reduce common pregnancy discomforts and tensions, prepare body for birth and more. All levels and stages of pregnancy are welcome. Saturdays, 10:3011:45am and Saturdays, 10-11:45am. Through Aug. 15. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $144.

Sisters Farmers Market Sisters Farmers Market is 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. They accept SNAP and offer $20 SNAP match with Double Up Food Bucks! Sundays, 10am-2pm. Through Oct. 25. Fir Street Park, Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0134. sistersfarmersmarket@ gmail.com. Free.

Worthy Farmers Market Farm Fresh Produce – Straight from local growers! One-of-akind products. Live music, food, cocktails & beer – Because Sundays should be fun! Set on their dog-friendly patio, it is the perfect way to spend a Sunday. Sundays, 10am-2pm. Through June 14. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Free.

HEALTH

+ WELLNESS

Kids’ Entrepreneur Market Mixer A

family networking and social gathering for the KEM community (or those interested) to connect, create and be inspired. Activity stations, games, guest speaker, tours of the Open Arts Center and fashion workshop, and light refreshments. RSVP required. June 13, 2-5pm. The Open Arts Center, 999 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: KidsEntrepreneurMarket@gmail.com. Free.

Mediation – What is it? How to Prepare? You may be ordered to go to mediation with your spouse. You may elect private mediation to resolve your differences. This online course covers both. https://leskinlaw.com/ June 11, 6-7pm. Contact: 971-930-4716. stevenleskin@leskinlaw.com. Free.

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.

Mom + Baby Yoga 6-Week Series Flow from pose to pose, toning, stretching the body while releasing tension. Reduce postpartum back pain! Moms and babies age 6 weeks - pre-crawlers. Thursdays, 10:30-11:45am and Thursdays, 10:30-11:45am. Through Aug. 13. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@ freespiritbend.com. $144.

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.

Nano Ninja Summer Camp Kids will have a blast climbing, performing Ninja Warrior gymnastics movements, parkour tumbling, and building new ninja friendships. Kids must be fully restroom-independent. Age 4-6 June 15-18, 9am-Noon. Free Spirit Yoga + Ninja + Play, 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-241-3919. info@freespiritbend.com. $259.

Starshine Minis Summer Camp Starshine Minis Camp combines nature, imagination, and play at the level of kids ages 1-5! Kids use their imaginations as they “become” wild animals, fairies, wizards, and anything they dream. They go on scavenger hunts, play games, wear costumes, and more! They’ll splash and play near shore with their grown-up. Mon, June 15, 9amNoon-Tue, June 16, 9am-Noon and Wed, June 17, 9am-Noon. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, 13300 Hwy 20, Sisters. Contact: 541-645-0688. jennie@starshine-theater.com. 145.

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, OR 97701, Bend. Contact: 978-771-4635. claire@ theopenartscenter.org. Free.

FOOD + DRINK

Come to the Rooftop at SCP Redmond Gather under the high desert skies to celebrate the return of rooftop season! The Rooftop features panoramic views and a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients that capture the essence of spring. Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-9pm. SCP Redmond Hotel, 521 Southwest 6th Street, Redmond. Prices vary.

Market Day La Pine Market Day La Pine is the first official farmers/makers market serving South Deschutes County. Once a month it brings together 30+ vendors of fresh food, handmade goods, community partners, and youth entrepreneurs. Its mission is to inspire, promote, and showcase micro and small business while fostering connection and growth. Sat, May 9, 10am-Noon-Sat, June 13, 10am-2pm, Sat, July 11, 10am-2pm, Sat, Aug. 8, 10am-Noon-Sat, Sept. 12, 10am-2pm and Sat, Oct. 10, 10amNoon. La Pine Parks & Recreation, 16406 First St., La Pine. Contact: 541-633-6806. marketdaylapine@gmail.com. Free.

Redmond Cookbook Club Join local home chefs for a potluck cooked from a different cookbook each month. Meet great people, enjoy delicious wine, and share fabulous food! Choose a recipe at the monthly happy hour on the 2nd Tuesdays, then bring a dish to the dinner party every 3rd Tuesday. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8pm. Arome, 432 SW 6th St., Redmond. Contact: 503-409-7944. kelsey.seymour@jillscookbookclub.com. $15.

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: https://www.templetribalfusion. com/contact/. $20.

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. Tue, June 16, 5-7pm and Wed, July 8, 5-7pm. Private Residence in Tumalo, Tumalo, Bend. Contact: 541-948-5035. jessica@intrepidher.com. $33.

Ladies AllRide Mountain Bike Skills Camp Round two in Bend! This is an empowering mountain bike skills clinic exclusively for women on the stunning trails of Bend, Oregon. All ages 18+ and riding abilities welcome - from newbie to more advanced! June 13, 9am-5pm and June 14, 9am-5pm. Contact: 5416470935. info@ladiesallride.com. $565.

Ladies AllRide Mountain Bike Skills Camp for Women Ladies AllRide is hosting empowering mountain bike skills clinics exclusively for women on the stunning trails of Bend, Oregon. Don’t miss out, reserve your spot now! All ages 18+ and all riding abilities welcome! From newbie to seasoned rider, fall in love with mountain biking! June 17, 9am-5pm and June 18, 9am-5pm. Seventh Mountain Resort, 18575 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-647-0935. info@ ladiesallride.com. $565.

Men’s Connection Group This is the perfect event for men struggling with life challenges and looking for support. This event is a circle for 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.

Dreaming of your perfect trip but don’t know where to start? Let our full service boutique travel agency take you there! Whether it’s a culinary experience through Europe, a safari adventure in Africa, or a cultural immersion in Asia, our team can help you create your dream trip. With our team of six travel designers, we have expertise in over 100 countries around the world!

GUNG HO

By Nic Moye

A Musical Tribute to the Greatest Generation

“Rosie the Riveter” will honor women and all veterans

As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary of independence, a new musical at the Tower Theatre honors the women who served the country during World War II. The production, “Rosie the Riveter,” pays tribute to the estimated 6 million women who entered the workforce in the 1940s, taking over industrial jobs. Today, there are believed to be only a few hundred to a few thousand still alive.

Marilyn Magness of Bend wrote the play to celebrate her mother, Allys Goy Magness, who was a Rosie at the Douglas Aircraft Company in the 1940s in Long Beach, California, where they made the B-17 Flying Fortress. The play is about a 19-year-old waitress in Maryland who falls in love with a boy enlisting in the army. When she learns about the opportunity to work, she brings a bunch of girls with her to the plant and learns how to rivet.

“It’s a remembrance. It’s a great celebration of this time in our history where everybody was sharing a common purpose,” Magness says. “There are so many slogans about this time, but my favorite is, ‘Let’s do this together.’”

Three Rosies, all over 100-years-old, will be attending the musical. One of them, 102-year-old Riley Helmstetter, lives in Bend. She worked at the Alcoa Aluminum Plant in Spokane handling large sheets of aluminum which were used to make war planes. She then moved to Laurinburg-Maxton Army Air Base in North Carolina where she packed parachutes for pilots flying C-46 and C-47 troop carrier planes.

Magness also hopes veterans from any war will attend. “There is a big veteran salute in the middle of this,” she explains. Magness named one of the waitresses in the play Alyss and another one Goy as a nod to her mother who is no longer alive. It took Magness 20 years to write the musical, which Thoroughly Modern Productions is producing. After the run in Bend, the script will be available to other production companies nationwide.

Magness says the whole experience of attending the play will feel like

stepping back in time with snacks in the lobby such as Peppermint Patties, invented in 1940, and drinks like Lime Rickeys. “You take people to an emotional place where they can relax and enjoy where they are and kind of disappear into the story,” she says.

The musical, which will have a live band led by Jim Tennant, will feature 22 songs from the era including those by Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller and the Mills Brothers. “It’s wall-to-wall music. It’s ‘Two o’clock Saturday Night” to “In the Mood” to “This is the Army Mr. Jones” to the ‘whole town’s talking about the Jones boy,’” Magness sings.

Magness has an impressive background working as a creative director for Disney, Warner Brothers, and NBCUniversal Global Brand Entertainment. Among her many accomplishments, she’s overseen five Super Bowl half-time shows, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, national tours of “Sesame Street Live,” the Osmond Family Christmas Specials and entertainment events at Disney theme parks. After “Rosie the Riveter” wraps up, she will plan parades and shows for the Six Flags theme parks. She’s also working on her next idea for a play about the backstory of “Casey at the Bat.”

But at the present moment, she’s laser focused on her musical. “I thought, well, this is the right year to do this, to celebrate this commonality of purpose, which, apparently, we’re struggling to regain in this country, but there’s no political agenda here. This is simply just a remembrance of a time when we rose up against the enemy instead of ourselves, and that’s what the optimistic message is, that we can do that again if we remember where we came from, the time where everybody jumped in to do good together.”

CHOW C A New Stop for Japanese Comfort Food on Third Street

PAN Japanese Kitchen offers generous portions, thoughtful presentation and plenty to explore

By Donna Britt

The former Sweetheart Donuts building on Southeast Third Street has undergone quite a transformation. These days, instead of maple bars and bear claws, the little storefront is serving steaming bowls of ramen, colorful bento boxes, fresh sushi and a menu packed with Japanese comfort food.

PAN Japanese Kitchen, opened a few months ago by the owners of Thai Table, fills a niche that Bend can always use more of — quick, affordable takeout that does not sacrifice quality or presentation. While there is a teeny, tiny seating area with just a handful of tables, PAN is clearly designed with takeout in mind. Fortu nately, they seem to have put as much thought into how the food travels as they have into how it tastes.

Chef’s Select creations. Premium offerings include seared tuna truffle, featuring bluefin tuna and truffle oil and a Kaisen tostada layered with spicy marinated fish, shrimp, seaweed and avocado atop a crispy wonton.

The menu is surprisingly extensive for such a compact operation. Bento boxes, donburi rice bowls, noodle soups, sushi rolls, sashimi, appetizers and desserts all compete for attention. Popular items include the Chicken Teriyaki Bento and Salmon Ginger Soy Bento, both loaded with a variety of components and priced reasonably at around twenty dollars.

Appetizers range from familiar favorites like crispy gyoza and miso soup to more intriguing options such as Takoyaki, those beloved Japanese fried octopus balls topped with savory sauce and dancing bonito flakes. Furikake potato tots add a playful touch, while the Bronze broccoli offers a vegetable option that deserves far more attention than broccoli usually gets.

Chef tasting bento boxes come with chicken, beef, seafood, vegan and gluten free options, while rice bowls and curry dishes range from simple comfort food to the impressive PAN Omakase Chirashi, featuring a chef-selected assortment of fish over sushi rice. The noodle soup lineup is equally appealing. Choices include chicken shoyu, spicy Miso, creamy vegan udon, and the creamy chicken, a rich chicken broth topped with crispy chicken katsu, bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, green onions and a soft boiled egg.

Then there is the sushi menu. You can keep it simple with a California roll or spicy tuna roll, or venture into specialty territory with options like the Dragon roll, spicy soft shell crab roll or one of several

For my visit, I stopped in to pick up a late lunch. After a recommendation from the chef, I ordered the Bronze broccoli and the creamy chicken noodle soup with udon noodles. The broccoli was outstanding. Chopped into perfectly sized pieces, flash fried just enough to maintain texture and coated in bright yuzu ponzu and crispy garlic, it delivered layers of flavor that elevated a humble vegetable into something memorable. The citrus notes from the yuzu added freshness while the savory elements brought balance and depth. I would order it again with out hesitation.

The creamy chicken soup impressed me before I even took a bite. The takeout packaging was one of the smartest designs I have encountered. The hot broth sat securely in the lower portion of the container while the noodles, chicken, vegeta bles, and egg rested neatly above it in a separate compartment. Everything stayed beautifully arranged during the drive home and there was not a drop of leakage.

By Nic Moye

LITTLE BITES MCSB Bounces Outta Bend

the mushrooms and vegetables added texture and balance. Most impressive was the portion size. There was easily enough food for two servings, making it an excellent option for sharing or for tomorrow’s lunch. My total came to $28 before tip. Considering the quality of ingredients, the generous portions and the fact that I essentially got two meals out of the experience, the value felt entirely fair.

What stands out most about PAN Japanese Kitchen is the care. The food is thoughtfully prepared. The presentation is attractive even inside takeout containers. Service is friendly and efficient. The colorful interior, decorated with Japanese artwork and banners, creates a cheerful atmosphere despite the restaurant’s small footprint.

The biggest question may be the location itself. Third Street offers visibility and easy vehicle access, but it is not exactly a strolling destination. This feels like the kind of place that might thrive in a more pedestrian friendly neighborhood where people could casually wander in for a bowl of ramen or a quick sushi fix. That said, residents of nearby neighborhoods such as the Old Farm District may find it particularly convenient, and pulling in and out of the parking lot was pretty darn easy, despite the usual Third Street hubbub.

Once assembled, the soup delivered exactly the kind of comfort food experience its name promises. The broth was rich and flavorful without becoming heavy. The thick udon noodles absorbed the creamy flavors beautifully. The crispy chicken katsu remained surprisingly crisp and featured tender pieces of panko crusted chicken breast. Even as someone who does not always gravitate toward breaded chicken, I found myself enjoying every bite. I stirred in the little chili sauce that came on the side and it added just the right touch of spice to the soup.

The soft boiled egg provided that perfect jammy center ramen lovers chase, while

With such a large menu, my single visit barely scratched the surface. The bento boxes are calling my name. So is the Katsu curry rice. And there are plenty of sushi rolls still waiting to be sampled. For now, PAN Japanese Kitchen succeeds at what it sets out to do. It offers fresh Japanese comfort food, generous portions, fair prices and thoughtful execution. If you are craving ramen, rice bowls, bento boxes or sushi and want a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing quality, this sweet little spot on Third Street is well worth a visit.

PAN Japanese Kitchen

Tue-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun Noon-9pm

210 SE Third St., Bend, OR panbend.com

Call/text 541-919-4656

The owner expressed frustrations on social media

MidCity SmashedBurger is permanently closed in Bend. Owner Mike Aldridge posted on Facebook that the food truck is moving to Troutdale. The burger joint had been located at Waypoint Hotel and there had been talk about it moving to the new food cart lot, Base Camp, opening at Powder House sometime this summer. In an Instagram post, Aldridge said he pulled out of that because of lease restrictions, general cost to operate at that location and competition from another cart that would also be selling hamburgers. He said it wasn’t feasible to set up at a new location and try to attract new regulars.

MidCity opened in Bend in 2022 and Aldridge said he still encountered people who said they didn’t know about his food truck. On Instagram he wrote, “This town really doesn’t support small business like it claims. I wanna thank all the supporters for all the love the last few days and years.”

Get ready to sip your way through the inaugural Margarita Week!

Local bars and restaurants will be serving up creative specialty margaritas all week long - each specially priced at just $9. Discover new favorites, support local spots, and marvel at the mixology talent our community has to o er!

Three

PARTICIPANTS

WAYFARER CLUB AT SCP REDMOND HOTEL

HARDTAILS BAR & GRILL

PAPI CHULO'S

RIVER PIG SALOON DESCHUTES BREWERY

BEND PUBLIC HOUSE

TRAILHEAD GRILL AT JUNIPER PRESERVE PROST!

HOLA! DOWNTOWN FAT TONY'S SIMON CURRENTS

PORTELLO LOUNGE CRUX CASA SUR MOUNTAIN BURGER UPP LIQUIDS THE COYOTE EL SANCHO RUNAROUND SUE

DISCLAIMER: PLEASE BE SURE TO CHECK WITH THE PARTICIPANT FOR THEIR HOURS OF OPERATION. THIS IS A CURRENT LIST OF PARTICIPANTS AND IS NOT FINAL. BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR A FULL LIST OF PARTICIPANTS.

each

20%

CULTURE

The Source’s News Boxes — an Impromptu Canvas for Bend’s Wild Styles

Love it or hate it, graffiti tags and stickers, hard to remove, are here to stay

By Peter Madsen

Do you like graffiti?

Asked in polite company, the simple question prompts reactions as colorful as an art store’s spray paint section.

“I love it!” someone suspiciously prideful of his New York City years might declare. “It’s a shame that subway cars, long coated with a graffiti-proof glaze, don’t roll with the Wild Styles of the 1970s and 80s — a carousel of color and defiance, winding through the city’s tunnels and elevated platforms, a living art show.”

Others might guffaw.

“I think it’s annoying — stickers and paint tags aren’t easy to get off. Plus, it’s not their property!”

These two viewpoints reflect the spectrum of enthusiasm for graffiti here at the Source office. Somewhere near the end of the spectrum is me, the aforementioned quasi—New Yorker, and Aaron Switzer, the Source publisher and owner of 60 Source news boxes.

In other words, I’m the punk and he’s the man.

To be fair, Aaron has to shell out-of-pocket any time a property owner rings to complain how yet another news box is doodled up like the appendages of a tattoo apprentice.

Take it away, it’s an eyesore.

It’s these instances when our staff spies one such castaway news box in our garage, waiting to be picked

up for a paint-stripping, scrubbing and repainting by our newspaper distributor, who charges several hundred bucks per refurbishment. About half — 30 news boxes — get the TLC each year.

In this liminal state, the news box, festooned in stickers advertising local breweries, outdoor brands and graffiti aliases, invites curious review. I often look them over, snickering when I catch something clever or outlandish.

SMOKE NARCAN is a personal favorite — the mandate is as hilarious as it is insane.

Other aliases range from JAEK CATLADY LPV, WAVE YISM and whatever PEØPLE’S EMPTY PLACE IT’S ALL IN UR HEAD is supposed to mean.

The declarative CRIME STATE sticker is particularly fun; applied to a Source news box seems like some kind of “TL;DR, fake news” nonsensical indictment.

Switzer says he gets it. Stickers and graffiti tags have been ticking upward the last 15 years he added.

“When I pull them off and start reading them, they’re actually pretty funny,” Switzer told me recently when he sidled up next to my filing cabinet — his filing cabinet! — which I’d plastered with stickers.

Switzer’s seen it all.

“Stickers are political, of sports teams, your favorite bands,” he said. “But some are offensive, for sure, whatever your standard of content is. People do not want those in their neighborhood. In the interest of being a good neighbor, we try to keep them clean.”

He doesn’t, however, find SMOKE NARCAN funny. “I don’t even get what that means.”

Despite his playful chagrin, Switzer actually doesn’t make a plea to stop covering up Source news boxes.

“I think that would be one of my more pointless endeavors.”

SC SCREEN 20th Century Kids

“Masters of the Universe” and “Scary Movie” hunt that hot nostalgia dollar

By Jared Rasic

Going to the movies this weekend made me feel like I was living through a cultural event horizon of the late 20th century, where Hollywood desperately picks up and shakes my inner child just to see if any more loose change falls out. This week, the box office gave us two diametrically opposed flavors of weaponized nostalgia: Amazon MGM’s surprisingly delightful live-action epic, “Masters of the Universe”, and Paramount’s deeply exhausting, borderline insulting resurrection of the “Scary Movie” franchise.

One actually respects the beautifully silly art of genre filmmaking. The other barely qualifies as a movie; instead acting like some drunk guy at a bar who won’t leave you alone, aggressively asking you if you remember pop culture phenomena that died around Obama’s second term.

Look, I didn’t think we needed a new live-action He-Man movie, especially in an era where blockbusters feel written by a committee of crackheaded algorithms, but director Travis Knight and his team understand what studio suits forget: if you’re going to sell us back our childhoods, you have to do it with a sharp wink, updated storytelling and actual affection for the source material.

“Masters of the Universe” doesn’t apologize for being a movie about a muscle-bound bro in a furry loincloth fighting a skeleton man. It leans all the way into the glorious, brightly colored, heavy-metal fantasy aesthetic of the 1980s and captures the goofy toy commercial essence of the original cartoon

while injecting a meta-tex tual intelligence rem iniscent of Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie.” It doesn’t have any of that film’s thematic or existential weight, sure, but it still taps into that ephemeral, longlost feeling of the joy of just playing with your toys.

Nicholas Galitzine plays Prince Adam with a sweet, earnest vulnerability that gives way to pure action movie bona fides, and, after this and his sharp comic timing in “The Sheep Detectives,” I expect we’ll be seeing a lot of him in the future.

Charms on the living room carpet. The middle-aged dads and their children (or possibly grandchildren) sitting around me agreed loudly and often.

I hate to say it, but the real MVP here is Jared Leto as Skeletor. I say this as someone who not only thinks Leto derails half the movies he touches (his work in “Blade Runner 2099” is unintentional camp), but that he’s also a fairly unlikable human being. Yet, Leto completely swings for the fences here, delivering a performance that is equal parts bullied theater kid that just got swole and cackling villain only found in mid-’80s Saturday Morning Cartoons.

The film is way too long and the plot drags in the second act, but when He-Man unlocks his power sword for the first time, I was trucked by a pure, unadulterated joy that made me feel like I was eight years old, eating Lucky

Then we have the new “Scary Movie.” Ditching the number Six, this reboot/legacy sequel marks the return of the Wayans Family in front of and behind the camera, acting as a direct sequel to “Scary Movie 2” while ignoring the Charlie Sheen era entirely. I love horror, I love a good spoof and I have more respect for Marlon Wayans than he’s probably earned, but watching this was akin to sitting through a 96-minute compilation of expired TikTok trends and sketches cut for bombing at an “SNL” table read.

The original early-2000s films (intermittently) worked because they were chaotic, clinically insane and targeted a specific era of post-”Scream” slasher tropes. Rewatching them reminds you how much they relied on the wacky fearlessness of “Airplane!,” even if the hyper-topical jokes had a strict expiration date.

Bringing back the Wayans family and Anna Faris sounds great on paper, but in execution, it felt sad. While Anna Faris seems desperate for laughs, the script relies too heavily on the dated gay panic

of Shawn Wayans’ closeted Ray and Marlon Wayans’ painfully unfunny stoner Shorty (unless you think an annoying laugh is hysterical). It treats nostalgia like a brick, throwing moldy references at the screen and hoping your brain recognizes them instead of actually writing a punchline. Director Michael Tiddes has no style, no substance and couldn’t set up a joke if it came with a blueprint. But, judging from the constant belly laughs erupting throughout my auditorium, maybe this one just isn’t for me. I’m not sure “Scary Movie” made me LOL a single time. Quite a few sighs, though.

Judging from how the early box office numbers are going, “Scary Movie” will make millions, while “Masters of the Universe” will flop miserably, so expect more of one and less of the other. I’m not entirely against Hollywood using my nostalgia for the rosy memories of my childhood and teenage years against me for a quick snack, but don’t make me feel like a moron while feeding it to me. I’m not that hungry.

“Masters of the Universe”

Dir. Travis Knight

Grade: B+

Now Playing at Regal Old Mill, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5

“Scary Movie”

Dir. Michael Tiddes

Grade: D-

Now Playing at Regal Old Mill, Redmond Cinema, Madras Cinema 5

O OUTSIDE Bend into Balance: The Power of Water

An interview with Dr. Bruce Becker

By Adriana Marino

As I was getting out of the Juniper pool after my regular swim, I couldn’t help noticing the lively masters team getting ready to start their “Fast Friday” session. While Coach Bob was writing the workout on the dry board, swimmers ranging from early thirties to mid-eighties were stretching on land, putting their swim googles and caps on and others were jumping in the pool eager to start their morning workout. As I looked around the spirited team members, I had a strong hunch there could be a good story behind any of these swimmers. I approached Coach Bob with this question in mind, and he immediately responded: “Yes, go to lane 1 and ask for Dr. Bruce Becker.”

Little did I know then that Dr. Becker is a nationally recognized physician, lifelong swimmer and leading expert in the physiological and mental benefits of aquatic therapy. He has worked with Olympians to veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars to individuals with a wide range of neurological conditions. At age 83, he swims regularly 6 miles a week. As a passionate swimmer and water baby at heart myself, speaking with Dr. Becker only left me with more reason to be in water as much as possible.

Excerpts from the podcast with Dr. Bruce Becker (quotes have been abridged for print version)

Bruce Becker: Aquatic therapy has been the major focus in throughout my professional career and I have found it so useful both in terms of myself, in terms of maintenance and physical conditioning. But for patients from a broad range of difficult issues, from neuromuscular disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal fractures, complicated pelvic fractures, complicated spinal cord injury, pulmonary disease, cardiac disease, virtually a whole panoply of medical pathology, as well as working with elite athletes, from middle school up through Olympian, world class gold medalists. And the benefits are ubiquitous. Whether you’re an infant or a ninety-year-old. It is unique in that there are really no medications that cross that entire age spectrum.

Adriana Marino: Why does getting in the water feel so good for most?

BB: The feeling of getting into warm water is very, very unique. One of the essential effects that I have tried to investigate throughout my career is the universal effect of somebody sitting down into a warm water bathtub and just going, ahhhhhhh, and I wish I could explain fully from a med ical standpoint what that is all about. That increase temperature has a bunch of effects on the human body. It drops blood pressure because the blood vessels relax. It typically decreases heart rate even though the water is warm. And there are a bunch of cardiac effects from just being in the water.

AM: Tell us about those phys iological changes.

expands and then contracts more. Pulse rate is really important; something that frequently is obsessional in working with athletes. They worry about an exercise that doesn’t boost their heart rate dramatically.

AM: Zone two. Zone three.

BB: Exactly. And when I was especially working with the Olympians, I had to explain to them the basis of the physiology. Working in water basically expands the heart.

BB: So, you basically get in the water and in that emerged environment, you’ve got hydrostatic pressure pressing in and all of the parts that are under water. If you’re in neck depth water, the body is basically pushing on your skin, compressing veins inside, pushing the blood up into first the thorax and into the heart and lungs. But at the same time, it’s doing that with interstitial fluid- that is tissue fluid that is not in the vein, but is within muscle. So, there’s a lot of fluid and it increases cardiac volume during immersion like that.

AM: What does that mean for the heart?

BB: Basically, it pushes about 700ml of fluid up into the lungs. About a third of that blood goes into the heart. So, it tends to dilate the heart. The heart rate is a consequence of that. Dilation tends to slow automatically. At the same time that it does that it basically

And at the same time, it’s expanding the heart, it’s making contraction more efficient. So that you increase stroke volume- the amount of blood that’s pushed out with each beat — by about 30%, which is very, very significant. And as a consequence, the decrease in rate, coupled with the increase in volume, means the body is working more efficiently. And at the same time, it’s doing that contraction. Your peripheral arterial structures are relaxing as a physiologic benefit. So, it basically turns out that the difference between a maximum heart rate in land and in water is about 12%. So, if you’re working to maintain a sustained heart rate on land of say 130, which is pretty rapid, basically, in water you’re dealing with a number that’s down into the teens (110-120). And yet you’re still getting the same cardiovascular benefits out of it, and actually even some more because it’s more efficient for the heart to deliver blood that way than when on land. It’s really quite amazing.

Discover a dedicated space to gather and create lasting memories against the backdrop of breathtaking natural surroundings. Open to the public, guests are invited to enjoy dinner with the whole family on the patio, warm up by the fireplace in the bar, or roast s’mores lakeside under the starlit sky. Set to the sounds of live music on Wednesday evenings this summer, every meal and moment becomes a story. OPEN DAILY FOR DINNER | 4PM-8:30PM

By Ray Randall

Juneteenth Celebration Returns to Bend This Year

The event will feature a variety of local businesses, foods and services

It goes by many names: Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, but Juneteenth, a portmanteau of June 19, is its best-known name. A celebrated date since 1865, which initially marked the liberation for those still enslaved. The Confederacy surrendered to the Union in the spring of that year, ending the Civil War, but they still controlled territory further west, in Texas. That’s where the last of the enslaved were freed, and they dubbed the day Juneteenth.

The Source spoke with the three co-organizers of this year’s upcoming celebration in Bend: Josie Stanfield, Kasia Moon and Katherina Barguil. Stanfield said the day is historically characterized by communal gathering and cooking, as well as serving as a continual reminder of Black resilience.

She added, “It represents honoring my past family members who were enslaved and what they went through. The fact that I’m here, and that my friends who are Black are still here, it’s really a testament to how powerful Black people are and how resilient Black people are.”

Moon provided a more contemporary perspective, that locally speaking, this provides the opportunity to show the Black presence in Central Oregon, “Whether they like it or not.”

Stanfield said this year’s celebration, held in the afternoon at Open Space, will feature vendors, food, a cake walk, both barbers and braiders and a cocktail bar — with mocktail options. In

lieu of a DJ, which they had last year, Riccardo Waites of the internet radio station, We Black Radio, will host.

Central Oregon’s Juneteenth is put on to celebrate the Black community and the businesses and organizations within it, Stanfield said.

The budget for this year’s event is smaller than before, in part because fundraising began a mere three months ago, but also because they elected not to work with the City of Bend. Last year, a social media misunderstanding delayed funding and upended operations.

While funding was received in time for the event, Barguil said mistrust remains and repair work needs to be done between the City of Bend and the Black and brown community. Regardless, she credited private donors and mutual aid from the community for helping put on this year’s event.

Barguil, an Afro-Latino, said as someone who didn’t grow up celebrating Juneteenth, she sees it as a critical opportunity to learn more about her heritage, learn more about her community and to embrace that same community, alongside her found family, here in Central Oregon. To celebrate all of the progress made thus far. Juneteenth Fri. June 19 2-8pm

UNDERSTANDING INTIMACY A COLUMN THAT FOSTERS DEEPER LOVE BETWEEN COUPLES

By Dr. Jane Guyn

How to Raise Kids and Stay Lovers

Dear Dr. Jane,

I’m a married mom of three great kids. My husband and I love each other and we’re working hard to keep intimacy alive in our marriage — but it’s been a real challenge. We both work incredibly hard, at our jobs and at home. We appreciate each other, but somehow we end up in a pretty big fight after the kids go to bed at least once a week. It’s bad. And when we do try to have sex, I’m usually so upset from our latest fight that I end up in tears. Can you help us?

Dear Mad and Sad,

Thank you for your honesty. I promise you’re not alone — so many couples are navigating this exact same thing right now. The truth is that most arguments aren’t planned. The house gets messy, resentment quietly builds, and suddenly that small thing that’s been simmering for days explodes into something much bigger. The hard part is that you and your husband are clearly trying. That matters, and it’s actually a great place to start.

Here’s what I recommend:

1. Wait for emotional readiness. You know you need to talk about something — maybe it’s sex, money, or something else that feels loaded. Before you dive in, check in with yourself and your partner: Are we actually ready to hear each other right now? Emotional readiness isn’t just about finding time on the clock. You can’t have a productive conversation when either of you is hungry, wiped out from work, or running on empty. This matters for every couple, more often than most people realize.

2. Take a time-out if things get heated. The conversation has started and it’s going OK — but then you feel the tension rising in your chest. He’s clenching his jaw. You’re both getting activated. This is the moment to pause. Agree to step away for at least 30 minutes and give your nervous systems a chance to settle. If you’re still feeling worked up after 30 minutes, let it go for now and return to it when you’re both in a better place. Coming back calm is always more productive than pushing through heated.

3. Schedule regular check-ins (yes, even just for the two of you). Structured weekly time together is one of the best tools couples have for staying connected and feeling

— Fighting Mad (and so sad)

respected. Use it to go over schedules, talk through what’s coming up with the kids, discuss finances, plan meals, float ideas for the summer — whatever needs air time. Think of it less like a board meeting and more like a standing date with an agenda. Keep it to 45 minutes or less, and resist the urge to turn it into a heavy processing session. Save the hard conversations for a separate time when you’re both prepared.

4. Avoid the bookend trap. Don’t try to have important conversations at the edges of the day — right before bed, or as one of you is walking out the door. Dropping “we really need to talk about our sex life” on your partner as they’re heading into a big work presentation isn’t fair to either of you. Good conversations need a real opening, not a sliver of time. When the timing is off, even good intentions can land badly.

5. Frame this as something you’re building together, not a rule you’re enforcing. Even the most thoughtful communication plan will fall flat if one partner feels cornered or managed. When you lead with genuine curiosity and care — showing that you want to understand, not just be heard — even a reluctant partner is more likely to show up. This works best when it feels like a shared commitment, not a consequence. And when it clicks? That sense of being on the same team is its own kind of intimacy.

You’ve got this.

xoxo, Dr. Jane

—Dr. Jane Guyn (she/her) is a wellknown relationship coach who received her Ph.D. in Human Sexuality and is trained as a Professional Sex Coach and Core Energy Coach.  Send her your questions at thesource@drjaneguyn.com.

TAKE ME HOME

By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend

The Season of Selling

Why summer remains one of the best times to list a home in

Central Oregon

More Buyers Are in the Market

Summer is more than a season of sunshine and outdoor recreation in Central Oregon — it’s also one of the busiest times of year for real estate. While homes sell throughout the year, summer has long been considered one of the strongest seasons for homeowners looking to maximize their property’s appeal and attract motivated buyers.

Homes Show Their Best

Lawns are green, flowers are blooming, and outdoor spaces are fully functional. Features such as patios, decks, fire pits and outdoor dining areas become major selling points. The visual appeal of a home often starts before buyers ever step inside. Overgrown landscaping, neglected flower beds and deferred maintenance can stand out just as much as a beautifully maintained yard.

Buyers Can Experience the Central Oregon Lifestyle

For many buyers, choosing a home in Central Oregon is as much about the community as it is the property itself. Summer gives buyers the chance to experience Central Oregon at its best— from crowded patios and farmers markets to packed trailheads and evenings on the water. It allows them to see firsthand what makes the region such a desirable place to call home. While location and lifestyle create interest, condition and presentation are often what turn that interest into an offer.

Families often prefer to move while school is out. At the same time, Central Oregon welcomes visitors from across the country, many of whom begin exploring homeownership opportunities after experiencing the area firsthand. For sellers, increased buyer activity means more eyes on their property and a greater opportunity to attract competitive offers. However, sellers shouldn’t assume that seasonal activity guarantees success. Today’s buyers remain informed and selective, often comparing multiple homes before making a decision.

Preparation Still Matters

Simple improvements such as refreshing mulch, trimming landscaping and tackling minor repairs can make a noticeable difference. In some cases, the difference between a home that sells quickly and one that lingers on the market comes down to the effort invested before the listing goes live. The homeowner who spends a weekend improving curb appeal may gain an edge over the neighbor who assumes the market will do the work for them.

Making the Most of the Season

Summer’s combination of strong curb appeal, active buyers, and vibrant communities helps make it one of the busiest times of year for real estate. Summer may be real estate’s busiest season, but it isn’t the season that sells homes. Preparation does. Summer simply gives sellers the best stage on which to showcase it. << LOW 262 NW Par Avenue, Madras, OR 97741

3 bed, 2 bath, 1,249 square feet, .17 acres lot Built in 2024

$359,999

$559,999

Listed by Jacob Haataja of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters

Listed by James Page & Matt Montoya of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters << HIGH 18204 Fadjur Lane, Sisters, OR 97759

$2,950,000

Nolte

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Dear Oracle: Why do we always have to start at the beginning? I’d much prefer just jumping into the middle of things. Right now, I would love to bypass all the tedious baby steps I’m being forced to take as I try to get some momentum going. Please slip me a few clues about how to fast-forward directly to the fun stuff. —Bored with the Groundwork.”

Dear Bored: Your timing is perfect. The planetary omens say you are now authorized to vault over the preludes and prologues and dive right into the heart of the action.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Restoration ecologists work to revive damaged prairies. They’ve discovered that seeds of many native plants can lie dormant in the soil for years, waiting for the right conditions to germinate. If they remove invasive species and restore the land’s natural cycle of controlled fire, wildflowers long absent from the landscape spring back to life. With this metaphor in mind, Cancerian, consider what dormant possibilities may lie buried in your own psyche. What seeds did you plant long ago and then forget? What dreams or talents are waiting for you to clear away the choking overgrowth and create space for them to emerge? Old potentials may be patient, not dead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Musicologists distinguish between "perfect pitch" and "relative pitch." A person with perfect pitch can sing or identify a specific note without hearing any other music beforehand. Relative pitch is the ability to recognize musical notes in relation to other notes. In the coming weeks, Sagittarius, relative pitch will be a more useful metaphor for you than perfect pitch. Don’t insist on perfect clarity about what's right and wrong, beautiful and ugly, worthy and unworthy. Instead of obsessing on fixed standards, practice relational discernment. How does this choice feel compared to that one? How does a person behave in this context versus another? For you right now, truth lives in the intervals and connections.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Better than any other sign, you understand that ego and generosity can be collaborators rather than enemies. Your charismatic radiance is often a public service. When you express your interesting beauty, you give others permission to tap into their own luminosity. The world always craves your unique flavor of audacious joy, and especially now. The rest of us need your intense insistence that flair and flamboyance are forms of resistance against the forces that would diminish life's splendor.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Many people struggle with what could be called “imagined ugliness,” a condition clinicians refer to as body dysmorphic disorder. It usually involves fixating on a supposed physical defect, or even on a flaw that exists only in one’s mind. I suspect that almost everyone carries a trace of this tendency, including you and me. The good news, though, is that the current astrological climate is ideal for you to at least partially shatter its spell. You are poised to transform your self-image so vigorously that you begin to regard yourself as a flawless exemplar of quirky, one-ofa-kind beauty.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The Golden Gate Bridge, which is a few miles from my home, is painted continuously. Painters start at one end, work their way across, and by the time they reach the other side, it's time to start over. The job is never finished; maintenance is the permanent condition. Some people find this depressing, but I find it oddly liberating. It means the bridge doesn't have to achieve some final, perfect state. It just has to be tended. Similarly, you don't have to fix everything once and for all, Libra. The relationships, projects, and internal states you're concerned about aren't meant to reach completion. You shouldn’t worry about trying to finish what's meant to be an ongoing practice. Just keep starting the cycle again.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Innovative theater director Viola Spolin was a Scorpio. She taught that the best scenes emerge when the actors avoid trying to control outcomes. Instead, they fully commit to the reality they're creating together. Spontaneous responses are their gold standard. Let’s make this a keynote for you in the coming weeks. Your assignment is to give yourself heartily to improvisation. The most interesting magic will happen as you relax into the collaborative process, trusting it to guide you toward beauty and meanings none of you could have scripted alone.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The best way to eliminate a bad habit is to replace it with a good one. Now is an excellent time to acquire more expertise in this art. Start by choosing a specific habit that drains your energy, time, or self-respect. Then identify what that habit is secretly trying to give you, like comfort, distraction, or a sense of control. Your mission is to find a healthier behavior that offers a similar payoff without the damage. For example, maybe you go online and binge-scroll through bad news because you imagine it soothes your anxiety. Instead of that, read an uplifting book or listen to serene music for a while. Be concrete: When the itchy habit hits, what exactly will you do as an alternative?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In 1905, 26-year-old Albert Einstein worked full-time as a clerk in a Swiss patent office. During his off-hours, he wrote four audacious papers that fundamentally changed how physics understood space, time, light, and matter. He accomplished his revolution without the sponsorship of a renowned university or laboratory. His example suggests that we can perhaps re-imagine and recreate the world even if we're not supported by glamorous circumstances. I suspect this principle applies to you these days. Breakthrough insights and earth-shaking realizations may arrive while you’re doing ordinary tasks. Be alert for the flashes that arise in seemingly routine and modest situations.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): For linguists, "untranslatable" words are concepts that exist in one language but have no equivalent in others. One example is mono no aware, which in Japanese refers to the tender poignance and appreciation you feel in the presence of fleeting beauty, like cherry blossoms falling. I bring this to your attention, Pisces, because I suspect that you, too, are untranslatable right now. My advice is to forget about trying to get others to grasp what’s going on with you. Here’s a suggestion that might help: Find soulful artists and emotionally intelligent creatives who speak the language of your mystery.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Many of you have a fraught relationship with discipline. You recognize you need it if you want a life rich with epic adventures. Yet you sometimes resist planning ahead or organizing your resources, fearing it might dampen your immediate pleasures. The problem is that when you skip the planning and organizing, the short-term fun you default to may turn out to be unsatisfying. That’s the challenging news. The encouraging news is that you’re now in a cycle when you can transform how you relate to discipline. I bet you can render some of those old patterns obsolete.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Gemologists evaluate opals less for flawless uniformity than for their mesmerizing play-of-color. They study how light interacts with a stone’s microscopic internal structure to produce vivid, shifting hues. The most prized opals aren’t necessarily the most perfect in shape, but the ones whose internal pattern and rainbow-like displays are most vibrant, varied, and alive. This is a marvelous metaphor for you in the coming weeks. I hope you don’t obsess on consistency or smooth away your complications. Let the world see your play-of-color.

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

"Tres ___, m'sieur"

55 Intention

56 Doc to sign before a business meeting

57 Cynthia's "Wicked" co-star, to fans

Puzzle for the week of June 08, 2026

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of June 08, 2026

Difficulty Level: ●●○○

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters S T A G N O V E L exactly once.

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters S T A G N O V E L exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: "Early summer days are a jubilee time for birds. In the fields, around the house, in the barn, in the woods, in the swamp everywhere and and and ." - E.B. White

Answer for the week of June 01, 2026

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

P O E S U R I N V

S U R V I N E O P

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will "Early summer days are a jubilee time for birds. In the fields, barn, in the woods, in the swamp everywhere and - E.B. White

E I N O P S V R U

Answer for the week of June 01, 2026

U V P R N I O E S R S O E V U N P I

O R I U E V P S N

N P S I R O U V E

V E U N S P R I O

“The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals and 362 admonishments to heterosexuals. That doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love heterosexuals, it’s just that they need more supervision.” — Doug MacLeod

“The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals and 362 admonishments to heterosexuals. That doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love heterosexuals, it’s just that they need more supervision.”

Doug MacLeod

© Pearl Stark www.mathpuzzlesgames.com/quodoku

“The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals and heterosexuals. That doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love heterosexuals, need more supervision.” - Doug MacLeod © Pearl Stark www.mathpuzzlesgames.com /quodoku

2026 CONCERT SEASON

LINDSEY STIRLING W/ PVRIS 8/1 • LUKE BRYAN W/ DREW BALDRIGE, SHANE PROFITT, KARLEY SCOTT COLLINS, DJ ROCK 8/6 • SARAH MCLACHLAN W/ ALLISON RUSSELL 8/7

TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND W/ LUKAS NELSON 8/8 • GAVIN ADCOCK W/ JAKE WORTHINGTON, TYLER NANCE 8/9 • TY MYERS W/ BRENT COBB, BENNY G. 8/14

EMPIRE OF THE SUN W/ POLO & PAN, MIDNIGHT GENERATION 10/3

GODSMACK W/ STONE TEMPLE PILOTS. DOROTHY 9/22 • JACK JOHNSON W/ G. LOVE 9/27 • BLACK LABEL SOCIETY W/ ZAKK SABBATH, DARK CHAPEL 10/2

0.A.R. W/ GAVIN DEGRAW, LISA LOEB 8/15 • TOTO W/ CHRISTOPHER CROSS, THE ROMANTICS 8/19 • NEEDTOBREATHE W/ DREW & ELLIE HOLCOMB 8/20 GOOSE W/ GREENSKY BLUEGRASS 8/21 • GOOSE W/ BUFFALO TRAFFIC JAM 8/22 • ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION FEATURING JERRY DOUGLAS W/ THEO LAWRENCE 8/23 THE STROKES W/ THE GARDEN AND ÖLÜM 8/25 • MATT RIFE 8/27 • TRAIN W/ BARENAKED LADIES, MATT NATHANSON 8/28 • MT. JOY 8/29 • DOMINIC FIKE 9/3 “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC W/ PUDDLES PITY PARTY 9/6 • FOSTER THE PEOPLE W/ GOTH BABE 9/12 • NIKKI GLASER 9/13 RILEY GREEM W/ RANDY HOUSER, KASHUS CULPEPPER & HANNAH MCFARLAND 9/18 • BLEACHERS W/ THE LINDA LINDAS 9/20