the Source June 25, 2026

EDITOR’S NOTE:

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When AI is fed more AI-created content, rather than original content, it begins to consume itself. Cover design by Jennifer Galler.

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nicole Vulcan–nicole@bendsource.com

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Nic Moye–editor@bendsource.com

FEATURES AND INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

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Artificial intelligence seems to have both enthusiastic supporters and doomsday haters, depending on what a person’s livelihood depends on. In the interviews we did for this issue the line seemed to be drawn between cutting edge technological advances and creating art. Sisters artist Katie Daisy posted a rant on Facebook recently (which she granted me permission to quote from), saying, “I’ve been sickened by how rampant copyright infringement has become online, especially with AI…We’ve entered a time where people can take artwork they didn’t make, run it through AI tools and convince themselves it’s now ‘theirs.’… Art is not just ‘content.’ It’s years of developing a voice. Years of failed paintings, experimentation, memories and lived experiences that eventually become a unique style…Despite all of this, I can still paint. I still have my ideas…. These folks can copy an image, but they cannot copy my story or the heart behind it.”

This issue is a mix of passion, determination and perseverance in overcoming AI infringements that artists like Katie are experiencing while other industries are exploring ways AI can be used to enhance efficiencies that may improve and even save lives. This issue explores both sides of a powerful technology that holds both the ability to expand our world and destroy it.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

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OPINION

If Journalism is the Last Job…

Today, journalism is increasingly the bridge between the inevitable rise of the digital world and the humans who live in and around it

recent article in The Hollywood Reporter offers a chronicle of how journalists may soon be adjudicated in the court of AI justice. As disturbing as that piece may be, it did contain an intriguing muse about the future of journalism, and the future of work.

In it, entrepreneur Aron D’Souza — the founder of the company aiming to “put journalists on trial” for their reporting — says that the very last job for humans will be distinguishing between truth and fiction. Knowledge and physical work will eventually cease to exist, D’Souza said, and all that will be left will be “interfacing between the physical and the digital worlds, and right now that frontier is journalism.”

As we ponder, in this issue, the ways that artificial intelligence is wending its way into people’s lives, we can’t help but turn the mirror on ourselves. While artificial intelligence is now being trained to purportedly assess the fairness of reporters’ work, as the article in The Hollywood Reporter details, we’re also using it to transcribe and process interviews and meetings in a more efficient manner, to analyze large swaths of numerical data, and as an idea-generator for visuals and graphics, to name just a few. If we use AI as a tool for images or as a significant tool in reporting, we say so, per our own AI policy.

All of this, of course, is done with the same code of ethics we’ve relied on for decades: one that requires us to verify information, to gather facts from multiple sources to challenge assumptions and to arrive at the closest approximation of the truth that we can muster from all of that effort.

We do all of this, even while we encounter more misinformation on the daily to sort out and interpret. As we scroll through our social media feeds, more and more AI-generated videos challenge us to suss out what’s “real” and what’s been generated from the AI ether. Will there come a time when the authenticity and originality is stripped completely from our social feeds, to the point where people lose interest in engaging? Or perhaps we’re already there, as anti-AI

social platforms such as Cara, Perfectly Imperfect and Retro Pop attempt to offer a more human-centered approach to online connection.

In the world of social media, the irony is that the new platforms which are attempting to filter out content using artificial intelligence are likely tapping into forms of artificial intelligence to do so. So even while the effect is a more human one, the snake is still eating its own tail. In the world of journalism, where events from reallife meetings or press conferences or breaking news scenes are interpreted by real-life humans in real time, we can’t rely on an AI-driven anti-AI system to offer us the tools of perception. Journalists still need to show up, see things with their own eyes, assess the facts given to them by others, and deliver a product that is rooted in trust and accountability.

If we observe that trust in social media platforms is waning due to a barrage of deepfakes, then it would follow that going forward, as D’Souza mentioned, society is going to need a lot more trained human observers. Journalism needs more eyes and ears — real ones on the ground. A human-centered approach, rooted in university training and a code of standards and ethics, is the path forward; not machine-crafted regurgitations of press releases churned out to favor an algorithm that only values volume and clicks. In recent years, people have had a lot of fun talking about the demise of journalism and the closure of newspaper after newspaper. But in the age of AI, we’re talking about the demise of so many other professions, from doctors to lawyers to every other knowledge worker, that it now feels like journalists have something of a leg up. We’re far ahead in the process of fighting for our human value to be recognized. Today, journalism is ever more becoming the bridge between the digital world and the humans who live in and around it. In a world that increasingly needs more humanity, journalism is more alive than ever.

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RE: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: STREET SAFETY (JUNE 18, 2026)

I appreciated Jim Reichle’s article last week reminding us about street safety; however, I would like to remind bicyclists that rules of the road are for everyone, bicyclists included.

A few days ago, I was stopped at the stop sign on 4th and Olney. There were several cars patiently waiting their turn when a bicyclist blew right through the stop sign and proceeded to “wave” as she went past. I thought the rules of the road applied to everyone and would like the same courtesy applied to me as I respect the bicyclist rights. When driving, I try to be cautious and aware of other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians in order for all of us to be safe.

Street safety is for EVERYONE.

—Carol Loesche

COMMENT ON TRUMP’S AND VOUGHT’S HUGE FEDERAL GRANT RULE CHANGE BY JULY 13

The Trump administration plans to change the federal research grants process in ways that would cripple science in the United States. Oregonians need to tell Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought that we won’t stand for these rule changes. The current rules have worked well for decades, with experts in research fields doing rigorous peer review deciding which projects get federal funding based on scientific merit. That system has made science in the U.S. a huge success: Of the 86 people who have been awarded Nobel Prizes in the sciences in the last 10 years, 44 went to researchers affiliated with U.S. institutions. But Trump and Vought want to politically control science as never before.

Remember the anti-democracy Project 2025 that was part of Trump’s platform in the last election? Russell Vought is one of its chief architects. Now he aims to overrule scientists, giving political appointees the final say over research funding. Former National Institutes of Health official Elizabeth Ginexi explains the consequences in her Substack (“Summary of Key Changes in OMB’s Proposed Federal Financial Assistance Rule: Russell Vought is going to destroy American Science,” May 28, 2026). Under the proposed rules, political appointees would call the shots and only projects that “demonstrably advance the President’s policy priorities” would receive funding. The proposed rules would prohibit support for research that would “fund, promote . . . or facilitate” ideas like diversity, equity and inclusion or “gender ideology.” Applicants could be denied funding

based on their “affiliations” with professional or political groups. So much for the First Amendment and scientific inquiry.

But it’s not just science funding that would be wrecked. Ginexi’s Substack article “This New OMB Rule is Bigger Than Science. Much Bigger” (June 1, 2026) explains how the rule change would derail the larger process of federal funding for programs that people in local communities depend on, like Medicaid, transportation funds, and food aid. Ginexi sounds the alarm and gives practical advice on writing personal, powerful comments about why the proposal is harmful. Everyone, whether they’re a researcher or a concerned citizen, should comment on how this new, hyper-political funding process would hurt the science, programs and people they care about.

Public comments for the proposed rule are open till July 13. Go to https:// www.regulations.gov/document/OMB2026-0034-0001 to see the proposed rule changes and to submit your comment.

—Dorothy Leman

RE:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: STREET SAFETY (JUNE 18, 2026)

The June 18 Letter of the Week stat ed: “it is always illegal to make a U-turn in Oregon UNLESS a sign allows it.” I can’t find any state law that supports this statement. ORS 811.365, titled “Ille gal U-turn” says, as briefly as I can para phrase it, that U-turns are illegal: 1) at intersections controlled by electronic signals, unless posted otherwise; 2) on a highway within an incorporated city between intersections; and 3) at any place in an incorporated city where your vehicle can’t be seen by approaching vehicles from 500 feet in either direc tion (1,000 feet outside cities).

As I read it, that means you can make a U-turn anywhere else.

The letter writer also stated it is always illegal to enter a bike lane to make a right turn on red, and I can’t find any support for that, either. In fact, ORS 811.440(2)(a) says “A person may oper ate a motor vehicle upon a bicycle lane when: (a)Making a turn.” Of course, other statutes require you to yield to bicyclists in a bike lane.

We should all drive safely. Incor rect advice about driving laws does not advance that goal.

—Greg Opfel

We appreciate our readers flagging the errors in a previous Letter to the Editor. We regret publishing the errors.

—Managing Editor Nic Moye

Rea Builders LLC and Pedego Bend

are honored to sponsor internationally acclaimed sculptor J. Chester Armstrong of Sisters at Downtown Bend’s First Friday on July 3.

Enjoy an evening of exceptional art and community, with hors d’oeuvres graciously provided by Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails.

With Music by Anastasia

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25 NW Minnesota Ave Bend, OR Join us at

Government Roundup

Board of Deschutes County Commissioners

On June 17, Deschutes County Commissioners accepted funding from the City of Bend for the Stabilization Center. The money comes from a nationwide settlement related to opioid claims that was distributed to participating local governments including Deschutes County and the City of Bend. The City is contributing $400,000 of its opioid settlement to the Stabilization Center over the next two years. The Center is a free 24-hour facility in Bend providing immediate care for adults and children experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crises.

The Board of Commissioners also approved the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget of $713,869,206 which sets a tax rate of $1.2783 per $1,000 of assessed property value. In a news release, county officials said to meet budget goals, county services departments implemented cost-saving measures including a hiring pause, delayed capital projects, workflow improvements and exploration of alternative revenue sources. Some departments eliminated 32 vacant positions with more reductions planned in fiscal year 2027 which begins July 1.

Bend City Council Business Meeting June 17

The Bend City Council voted to continue deliberations on a proposed master plan for a new neighborhood in southeast Bend at its next business meeting on July 15. The Cavvy Master Plan is a 45-acre site at Murphy Road and SE 15th Street with Alpenglow Park to the south and the Nottingham Square Neighborhood to the north. The plan calls for 362 housing units with 193 as middle or multi-family housing. Two acres will be reserved for mixed employment. There will also be a trail under the Murphy Avenue overpass connecting to Alpenglow Park, avoiding the need to cross the busy street.

The planning commission had originally recommended denial of the original plan submitted last November due to issues with open space requirements, street connectivity and commercial lands being developed with affordable housing. The developer, Pahlisch Homes, revised the plan and resubmitted it on May 20. The planning commission says the new plan still violates a requirement that a neighborhood block not be more than 2,000 linear feet. The Cavvy plan has a row of housing in the center of the neighborhood that stretches 3,100 linear feet. At the June 17 meeting, City Councilors indicated they are willing to allow the code deviation for the block perimeter but wanted a multi-use trail around the neighborhood realigned. Some councilors are also pushing for a large open space area up to 100-feet. City code requires a minimum of 10% of a master plan be open space. Pahlisch Homes is expected to make adjustments for the Council to reconsider and vote on at the July meeting.

Ranked-Choice Voting Effort Launched in Deschutes County Advocacy groups say a new elections model would bring better representation amid an upheaval on the Deschutes County Commission

By Clayton Franke

Advocacy groups have launched a campaign to change the way county commissioners are elected in Deschutes County by introducing a new voting system they say would increase representation and give a better chance to candidates not backed by either of the major political parties.

A coalition supporting the change announced the campaign on Monday, kicking off an effort to gather the 6,500 signatures needed to get an initiative on a ballot in front of Deschutes County voters. If passed, the measure would introduce proportional ranked-choice voting, doing away with primary elections and races for individual county commissioner seats.

Petitioners need the signatures by Aug. 5 to have the measure on the ballot this November, although they have up to two years to gather signatures, said Brian Smith, director of the Tribal Democracy Project. The group aids Native candidates, encourages voter turnout and is backing the Deschutes County ranked-choice effort. The chief petitioners for the potential ballot measure are activist Freddy Finney-Jordet, Redmond School Board member, and recent Deschutes County Commission candidate Amanda Page and her campaign manager, Tawney Barin Howlett. Common Cause Oregon, a good government group, is also supporting the initiative, called “Voices for All of Deschutes.”

The effort adds to what’s already been a whirlwind year in Deschutes County politics, with four seats on the county commission up for reelection and another proposal to split the County into five geographic voting districts on the ballot in November. Two races were already decided in the May primary with victories from candidates backed by the local Democratic party, which secured a majority on the County’s governing board for the first time in decades. The two other races will be decided in November.

Part of the motivation for the ranked-choice voting initiative is the possibility that candidates supported by the Deschutes Democrats — or any party — could fill all five seats on the board, leaving more progressive, conservative and rural voters without a voice. Proponents say it’s a better option to increase representation than the proposed district map, which they say was crafted to ensure Republicans hold on to power despite having the fewest number of registered voters in the county.

“We live in a politically and geographically diverse county,” Page wrote in an email newsletter to supporters on June 12. Page is a progressive Democrat who lost in the May primary election after the Deschutes Democrats endorsed a different candidate, Amy Sabbadini. “During the districting process, I repeatedly heard people express a fear of lack of representation. That concern is proving to be valid. But I believe it is best addressed by proportional ranked-choice voting.”

Under that model, county commission candidates would compete for all five seats on the board at once during a November general election. Voters would rank candidates by order of preference, rather than casting a single vote in each individual race. Then, the votes of the people who preferred the least-popular candidate are transferred to their second-choice candidate until only five remain.

Smith said that because of its structure, the proportional ranked-choice voting proposal cannot coexist with the proposed district map, which would require county commissioners to live within a sub-jurisdiction of voters who elected them.

Finney-Jordet, one of the ranked-choice voting petitioners, is also leading the Deschutes Defend Our Democracy Coalition, the campaign against the map.

“We’re still fighting this gerrymander,” Smith said of the map.

Despite the promise of more conservative and rural representation, the Deschutes Republicans party doesn’t support ranked-choice voting, chair Keith Rockow told the Source.

“It is just one more way for Democrats to push us out of the election,” Rockow said.

The proposed district map, he said, will ensure better geographical representation.

“I don’t have to pick and choose which commissioner has to deal with my issue because I will have a representative specific to me,” Rockow said.

Portland debuted ranked-choice voting in city council elections in 2024, and Multnomah County will use the system for the first time later this year.

In Deschutes County, voters have approved two changes to county commission election structure in recent years. A 2022 ballot measure nixed separate party elections for Republicans and Democrats. Unaffiliated voters — the County’s largest bloc — now participate in primary elections, and the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, move on to the general election, while anyone with more than 50% wins automatically.

In 2024, voters passed a ballot measure to expand the commission from three seats to five.

Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang supported both those changes, and has opposed the district map, along with other Democrats. He didn’t take a strong position on the ranked-choice voting proposal.

“Proportional ranked-choice voting is interesting and provides some potential benefits, but I also think it’s very challenging to explain to voters and would present some significant administrative challenges for us if it was only applied to county commissioner elections,” Chang told the Source.

Smith, of the Tribal Democracy Project, said supporters want to expand ranked-choice voting beyond the county commission, which is just a starting point.

Officials who run elections in counties across the state — including Deschutes — expressed concerns with a statewide ranked-choice voting effort in 2024, citing the extra cost, workload and potential election mistrust.

“To implement ranked-choice voting at any level does increase cost,” Deschutes County Clerk Steve Dennison told the Source, citing software upgrades and printing.

Bend Holds Off on Planned Transportation Fee Increase, Looks to Other Options

A

road maintenance charge adopted in 2024 won’t hike residents’ utility bills this year, but City elected officials still face prickly conversations about how to raise extra funding

By Clayton Franke

Bend residents and businesses this year won’t see a planned increase to utility bills some were bracing for, but City officials say they’ll be looking at other ways to raise more money for streets.

The Transportation Utility Fee, adopted in 2024, was part of the City’s strategy to supplant declining revenue streams like the state’s gas tax, the main source of road maintenance funding for the City. At the time, the City adopted a phased approach for rolling out the new charge, aiming to collect a total of $15 million in the fee’s third year, which begins July 1.

But the hike the City contemplated in 2024 wasn’t included in a package of other fee increases approved by the City Council on June 17.

At a work session last September, the Bend City Council agreed on an “indefinite pause” to the fee increase in 2027, floating other potential local revenue streams like registration fees, a seasonal gas tax, parking fees and dipping into the general fund for fire and police.

The pause came after the City Council weathered pushback to a transportation fee hike a few months earlier. Some business owners, residents and economic development groups wrote letters and gave public comment expressing concerns about the cumulative effects of the fee, along with other rising costs. In addition, City leaders were optimistic the Oregon legislature’s special session would result in transportation funding for local governments. That package — anchored by a 6-cent hike to the state’s gas tax — would’ve padded Bend’s road maintenance revenue by $2.7 million, the City estimated.

But voters overwhelmingly shot down the proposed state gas tax increase during last month’s election.

“There definitely were expectations around Phase 3 (of the fee) that weren’t met,” Bend City Councilor Ariel Méndez told the Source Monday. “The state funding we were hoping to get isn’t going to arrive.”

“In the meantime, we still have needs,” he added.

The lack of new funding won’t immediately affect the department in charge of road maintenance, because it wasn’t planning on using state money or extra fee revenue in the upcoming year, said Transportation and Mobility Director David Abbas.

With the fee, the City has promised smoother pavement, fewer potholes, more frequent striping, sweeping and plowing, plus safer crosswalks and more.

According to Abbas, raising the fee to $15 million would provide enough funding for more than just preserving pavement — paying for more safety features like concrete crosswalk islands, flashing beacons, buffered bike lane delineators, plus a new crew dedicated to filling sidewalk gaps.

It would “really be able to move the needle and do some new things,” Abbas told the Source. “Phase 1 and Phase 2 is really to kind of keep up with the inflation that was happening and continue to hold our ground, or try to hold our ground, as far as conditions go.”

That hiked transportation utility fees from $5.60 per month to $10.50 for single-family residences, and $4.35 to $7.75 for multifamily residences. Businesses saw fees increase anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars per month, depending on the size and

“We fully recognize the need to fund transportation, but to put that all on the backs of the business community is concerning, I think.”

— Sara Odendahl

type of the business. The fee was calculated with a formula meant to account for the wear and tear that business traffic puts on Bend’s roads.

The City reported in November 2025 that Bend’s overall pavement condition ticked up slightly last year, but is still below the industry target. The City’s two-year budget, approved in 2025, estimated it will cost about $4.5 million per year to maintain current pavement conditions. That same budget allocated $4.3 million per year for that purpose while moving $200,000 per year from street preservation to bicycle and pedestrian programs.

Some business owners have questioned why they are expected to bear additional costs to fund bicycle and pedestrian safety, rather than just road maintenance, said Sara Odendahl, CEO of the Bend Chamber of Commerce. That question would remain should the City pursue another fee hike, Odendahl said.

“We fully recognize the need to fund transportation,” Odendahl said, mentioning tourism, goods and services. “But to put that all on the backs of the business community is concerning, I think.”

Under the current structure, 44% of the fee revenue comes from businesses, and the rest comes from

residential accounts. But because there are fewer businesses than residents, businesses end up paying more per bill.

Rather than raising fees again, the City could pull back or reassess some of its planned projects, Odendahl said.

City Councilor Méndez said he believes there is a real tension between funding for pavement upkeep and funding for safer crosswalks and bike lanes.

“My priority is safety, but I’m not going to ignore the fiscal responsibility of maintaining our pavement conditions,” Méndez said.

The bulk of transportation construction funding in Bend comes from charges on new development and a $190 million taxpayer bond voters approved in 2020.

The City Council could discuss other funding this winter, Abbas said. Based on last September’s work session, several options appear to be on the table. Méndez suggested using more general fund dollars — which come from local property taxes — to fund transportation, potentially replacing the hole with a utility fee for police and fire. After seeing new transportation fee revenue, the City reduced the general fund subsidy for street maintenance from $10 million to $9 million.

Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler said she favored the idea of a Deschutes County-level vehicle registration fee, 40% of which would go to cities.

And the City may rekindle discussions of a local gas tax, a proposal Bend voters shot down in 2016. Méndez said that could be a seasonal tax in the summer months in order to capture more revenue from tourists.

REDMOND NEWS Redmond Plans Massive Celebration for Country’s 250th Anniversary

By Clayton Franke

When it comes to celebrating the 250th anniversary since the Declaration of Independence was signed, the City of Redmond is not holding back.

A massive extravaganza on Fourth of July weekend will feature thousands of free hot dogs and red, white and blue snow cones plus a $20,000 fireworks show in what appears to be the largest semi-quincentennial event across Central Oregon.

“It is the 250th anniversary of our country going back to the Declaration of Independence,” Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch told the Source on Thursday. “Why wouldn’t you want to have a huge celebration for that?”

Like a typical Fourth of July in Redmond, a parade will commence downtown, and later a fireworks show will take place at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. But this year’s display will be a little longer and a little tighter, with a quicker cadence of explosions, said Chuck Arnold, the City’s economic development and urban renewal program manager, who is planning the event for the City.

On July 3, a block party will commence with music, vendors, games, a pet costume contest, a pie baking contest and reenactments of Redmond history before elected officials give their thoughts on the celebration of America’s 250th, Arnold said.

“During the event we’ll be serving those hot dogs for free until everyone has had their fill,” Arnold said. “The snow cones are going to be churning out as quick as possible. They can churn them out at 400 per hour.”

The event is produced by Lay It Out Events, a sister company of the Source.

Redmond’s festivities come amid friction at the national level between two initiatives orchestrating events for the anniversary: America 250, a commission established by Congress in 2016, which has organized charity drives and a nationwide block party; and Freedom 250, President Donald Trump’s initiative which includes events like a UFC fight at the White House and an IndyCar race in Washington, D.C.

Bend, Central Oregon’s largest city, doesn’t have anything special planned for the 250th anniversary, according to Jacob Larsen, a spokesperson for the City.

The usual festivities include Bend Park & Recreation’s Pet Parade and the fireworks show on Pilot Butte, which is run by a private entity, Larsen said.

Redmond’s block party will cost $25,000, Arnold said. But most of it’s being covered by local corporate and business sponsors. The Redmond Municipal Airport will pay for the fireworks show at the fairgrounds, Arnold said.

Redmond Fire & Rescue will be ready to stamp out brush fires that might start from falling embers, said Tom Mooney, fire marshal with Redmond Fire & Rescue.

Meanwhile, there may be other fireworks popping off across Redmond. The City allows personal fireworks on the Fourth of July, but not any other day of the year. The Redmond City Council passed the yearround ban last fall. In the days leading up to the Fourth last year, teens with fireworks sparked a blaze in the brush of the Dry Canyon, a large natural park running through the middle of town. The blaze forced evacuations before crews slapped it down. The next day, Redmond passed an emergency ban on fireworks, which took effect on midnight after the Fourth of July.

Central Oregon’s hot weather and dry vegetation have led other cities, like Bend, to ban personal fireworks. On June 16, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek declared a preemptive state of emergency due to the “imminent threat of wildfire.”

“We recognize the fire situation we got this summer,” Fitch told the Source. “But I also think it’s important for that one day of the summer that people be able to celebrate the Fourth as we have historically.”

He said he hopes people will use fireworks responsibly.

Mooney said only legal fireworks are allowed in Redmond, and urged people to douse smoldering fireworks with water to ensure they don’t start accidental fires.

“It is the Fourth of July and It is the 250th celebration, but if you’re going to use fireworks, you can only use Oregon legal fireworks,” Mooney said. “Leave the big stuff to the professionals at the fairgrounds.”

SUNSET SOUNDS: CACAO CEREMONY, REIKI & SOUND BATH

RELAX IN NATURE

A heart-opening evening of ritual, music, connection and inspiration, surrounded by the beauty of the high desert at sunset. Join Step into Stillness and LightLove&Reiki at Smith Rock, partake in a cacao ceremony and be enveloped in live sound. Reiki will be given to each participant during the live sunset soundscape. 6:45-8:45pm at Smith Rock State Park, 9241 NE Crooked River Dr., Redmond. $48.

LUAU FUNDRAISER

BBQ FOR A CAUSE

Tri-tip BBQ, hosted beer and wine, live music, silent auction, raffles, live auction and a great time! For a $35 suggested donation, have a blast at this 6th annual "Friends of the Luau" fundraiser - all proceeds go to ClearPath Healthcare and Partners in Care! Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Free.

OPA PRESENTS BROADWAY & DISNEY HIT ‘FROZEN’

MAGIC FOR ALL AGES

OPA is thrilled to present the full-length Broadway version of the Disney hit, “Frozen." The magic is brought to life by OPA’s Brava cast with full orchestra, aerial silks, powerhouse vocals and high energy dance. 3-5:30pm at Ridgeview High School, 4555 SW Elkhorn Ave., Redmond. $15.

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Artificial Intelligence

At a new AI Fireside Chat speaker series, tech leaders address public concerns and misconceptions about AI

—

in plain English

By Peter Madsen

Artificial intelligence is one of the most hot-button topics of our time.

For some technology optimists, AI will be a crucial piece of a near-future resembling that of The Jetsons — our daily mundanity is outsourced to helpful robots that wear cute aprons and anticipate our every need.

For pessimists, that future horizon is a burning hellscape where artillery drones zoom overhead, eliminating targets with laser beams. Terminator robots, wirelessly linked to an artificial neural network, pick off the last of humanity’s resistance fighters with cold pragmatism.

Regardless of which camp Central Oregonians might find themselves, Kevin Goldberg, a founder and CEO of iS2 Digital, a business technology firm, wants to equip them with the most current, accurate information at the AI Fireside Chat, which he hosted at Central Oregon Community College’s Hitchcock Auditorium on June 22. Goldberg promises no doom nor magic; just jargon-free insight into a revolutionary technology.

Goldberg’s first guest of the series, which he hopes to offer quarterly, was Alan Hellawell, a 30-year tech industry veteran, lecturer at Taiwan’s National Chengchi University and host of the Indonesia-focused indo teckno podcast.

Topics ranged from how AI is changing work, which jobs are most at risk and why that answer surprises most people. The hour-long conversation, punctuated by two audience Q&A sessions, also gave folks pragmatic tips on how to stay ahead of the AI curve with things they can begin doing this week.

The Source recently chatted with Goldberg and Hellawell by video call, once this slightly technophobic reporter figured out how to record the conversation. Following is a portion of that conversation, which has been edited for length and clarity.

the Source: I might be a good sample audience member in that I bring a very common skepticism and distrust not just of AI, but of any altruistic promises by Silicon Valley. What was the genesis of the AI Fireside Chat?

Goldberg: I’ve been deep diving into AI for the last couple years. I realized that in what you read, there’s just so much misinfor mation and so much hype. So little clarity. I thought there’s a real opportunity to help people understand what AI is, what it isn’t and where it seems to be going. Alan’s got a strong background in podcasting and he works in tech and business. The AI Fireside Chat came about when we were out to din ner with our wives. We just started brainstorming about this very technical, heavy thing to teach. Alan is really insightful in the way he asks questions. We found that we have a good rhythm. The intention is to help people understand what this incredible technology is doing, which I don’t think a lot of people do.

Hellawell: This session is really designed to cultivate literacy. If we compare the ongoing AI era to other large technological transformations, such as the advent of the personal computer or the internet revolution, we have much more to lose by remaining illiterate during these tectonic changes. The common thread of our fireside chat topics all relate to arming people with at least a very basic awareness. Ideally, we can build on that.

Goldberg: When we began doing a run-through [of our talking points], it really illuminated the gap between what an average, smart, well-read person knows about AI and what AI really is. That was a bit of an aha moment.

Hellawell: Flipping the coin over, our hope is that those who attend our sessions can harness artificial intelligence well beyond what they would have envisioned. There are some straightforward productivity elements that most people understand. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You can automate almost the entirety of your life using AI properly. There’s also a hope that we can empower people to lead far more productive lives.

tS: Artificial intelligence is a technological shift, to say the least. Are there lessons we can learn from previous shifts that completely changed work?

Goldberg: That consideration is a big chunk of one of the segments. I’ll take electricity, for example. The interesting thing about electricity is that it didn’t really hit factories once the light bulb was created. The power plants actually came fast, but the factories didn’t change. It took another 20 to 30 years before factories were able to leverage electricity. They took the steam engine out and replaced it with the electric motor while the factory’s gears and pulleys — everything remained the same.

Much later, factories started saying, ‘Hey, we could actually take this electric motor and put it on individual machines and retool the factory floor to be more optimized for workflow — not optimized for the pulley system that was generating the movement.’ And that’s when they finally saw the incredible advancements. So, in terms of AI, an analogy that is really relevant is that of the factory. We’re still working with the old factory because we’re still applying AI to existing tasks. Yet we haven’t seen all the new positions, the new methods, the new jobs that are going to come out of this technology. It’s just so generalizable. We’re in this early process with AI. We don’t know when that switch will get flipped.

Bend-La Pine Schools Support Responsible AI Literacy

Local educators use AI tools to enhance learning and prepare students for the future

By Nic Moye

Navigating the balance between an appropriate use of AI technology in schools and creating human bots is a delicate, complex issue. In April, the Bend-La Pine School Board passed a resolution requiring the school district to review the use of all technology and apps and create standards for tech use at different grade levels. Communications Director for Bend-La Pine Schools, Scott Maben, says the district aligns its policies and practices with the Oregon Department of Education’s guidance on use of generative AI in K-12 classrooms.

The state says genAI continues to reshape education, so the focus is shifting to how it can be safely and effectively integrated into schools to enhance personal connection and improve teaching and learning. GenAI is a specific type of artificial intelligence that can create new content rather than simply analyze information. State guidelines stress that AI must never replace human relationships and should be used to strengthen students’ critical thinking and creativity. It states “AI integration can be beneficial if it supports students in developing the durable skills, knowledge, adaptability and ethical grounding they (students) need to succeed in the careers and civic life of the future.”

ODE acknowledges the risk of students using AI tools to replace brainpower in writing, research, problem-solving and generating ideas. The Bend-La Pine School District says AI is used in certain classes to enhance creativity, support skill development and practice critical thinking. Maben says AI is not used in grades K-2. Students in grades 3-12 have access to MagicSchool AI which is a closed system. Teachers create and manage “rooms” within the program for students to access and complete lessons. Other AI tools within the district include Canva Magic Studio which allows students to create written and visual content such as animations; Adobe Express, a web-based tool that allows students to design graphics, videos, presentations, web pages and podcasts; and Wayfinder which is an AI literacy curriculum for teachers. Educators also have access to ChatGPT for Teachers.

Tracy Howk is a certified teacher who works in the Bend-La Pine Schools’ Educational Technology Department supporting other teachers and students in using technology effectively. She says MagicSchool is primarily used for timeheavy tasks and that teachers may use it to adapt materials. “For example, a teacher might adjust math story problems to include local context or familiar

scenarios, making the learning feel more accessible,” she told the Source.

Students may also use the program to get feedback on assignments, turn notes into flashcards or make content more relevant. “Students might interact with a historical figure, a character from a book, or a perspective from a particular time period to deepen their understanding,” Howk explains. “In computer science courses, once students have a strong foundation in coding skills, teachers may introduce AI as a way to explore how it is being used in professional programming environments and to help prepare students for college and careers.” The Bend-La Pine Educational Technology department has been discussing AI since 2022 when ChatGPT was released.

The other component to incorporating AI into classrooms is parental support. On its website, the district says “When AI use is permitted by the teacher, parents and their students have a voice in deciding how they will use AI. Parents support students by focusing on the process — asking how they are expanding their ideas or refining their work, rather than simply reaching a final answer.”

The use of technology and now artificial intelligence in schools have been controversial and emotional topics. In February, a group of Bend-La Pine parents submitted a letter with more than

1,000 signatures to the school board expressing their concern about, what they call “Big Tech” such as iPads, apps and genAI used in classrooms. Their fears centered around digital education impairing student learning and cognitive growth and potentially having a negative impact on youth mental health. The parents advocated for handwritten assignments and reading off paper rather than digital lessons. While the district is shifting away from one-on-one iPad use for students, it continues using technology and AI in a more controlled setting.

“It is our policy and expectation that student screen time is only for educational purposes that are directly aligned with learning standards,” Maben says. “The chat function on our approved platform is only available if teachers assign it and it’s highly programmed with strong guardrails around how the AI Learning Assistant will respond to student prompts.”

In April, one of the parents in opposition told the Source that the coalition of parents were “absolutely thrilled” with the new policy. “We’ve read other resolutions and policies from other districts and legislatures around the country and honestly can say that this resolution passed by the school board is one of the best that we’ve seen in the country,” a parent told the Source.

The state recognizes potential pitfalls surrounding AI such as the potential for students to form human-like relationships with AI and misusing it to do the work for them. It puts the onus on teachers to recognize warning signs of emotional distress and the ability to know and identify a child’s voice in completed assignments.

“One of the biggest risks is that AI can be used to shortcut the learning process, original thinking, and student voice, all of which Bend-La Pine Schools values deeply,” Howk says. “That is why our focus is not simply on access to technology, but on helping students build the skills and judgment to use it well.”

While guardrails are needed, Howk says AI can help streamline routine tasks, allowing teachers to spend more time with students. For students, she says it can be a helpful learning tool.

“AI literacy is becoming an important part of a well-rounded education. This aligns with state guidance around equitable access, digital literacy and preparing students to use AI in informed ways, if they chose to use it,” Howk says. “Overall, we want students to leave school not only knowing how to use technology, but also understanding when, why and how to apply it in ways that strengthen learning, creativity and their future goals.”

AI Tools Used as Smart Medical Assistants

Artificial intelligence is helping doctors provide more specialized care

By Nic Moye

In the medical world, artificial intelligence is being used in multiple ways to improve efficiencies and patient care. Last year, St. Charles Health System began offering doctors an AI software program called DAX. So far, 125 primary care providers and workers in ambulatory settings at St. Charles are using it. The physicians use an app on their phone to record a conversation with a patient, after first getting permission. St. Charles says DAX is more than a transcription service, it uses AI to summarize and fill out a patient’s chart. The hospital says doctors using it report they are less stressed about staying late to finish paperwork and can focus more intently on patients. One doctor reported she was spending about 20 minutes per patient updating charts which dropped to only a few minutes spent reviewing a chart after DAX.

Microsoft and Nuance developed the AI-powered listening app DAX Copilot which stands for Dragon Ambient eXperience. Dragon Copilot is trained on billions of minutes of clinical narratives and clinical conversations so it can recognize medical terminology.

Before DAX, St. Charles says 47% of its primary care providers reported they were burning out. After DAX, that number dropped to 7%. The hospital says 88% of the doctors using the technology report high job satisfaction and better documentation quality. About 75% reported a better work-life balance. St. Charles says a survey found that 89% of patients reported their provider was more focused during an exam when they used DAX and spent less time on the computer.

Artificial intelligence has also improved the use of MRI at St. Charles. According to a community newsletter, the software has been shown thousands of images so it can differentiate between a quality signal and noise, increasing its ability to scan faster. St. Charles is also using a new AI-powered tool to screen patients at its Cancer Institute and match them with a relevant clinical trial happening nationwide. Public Information Officer Alandra Johnson says the Institute is partnering with the company Paradigm. While still in the early stages, doctors are seeing great promise. Before Paradigm, Johnson says researchers spent time manually looking through patient charts attempting to match them with appropriate clinical trials, which was time consuming.

“Currently, we are using Paradigm in a limited capacity, using the AI tool to help us with preliminary screening for trials that we have existing access to. Over the next year, we will use the tool to screen more patients for specific industry trials brought to us by Paradigm, which will ultimately give us the ability to match a greater number of patients to trials than we do today,” according to a statement forwarded by Johnson.

A study reported by Menlo Ventures last October found that the health care industry is using AI at more than twice the rate of other industries with 22% of medical organizations in the U.S. using industry-specific AI tools compared to 9% of other companies, which mostly rely on general tools like ChatGPT rather than AI solutions customized for their business.

AI Chatbots Assist With Central Oregon Government Work

Officials say artificial intelligence has boosted productivity, but they’re

taking a cautious approach about

where to use it next

By Clayton Franke

Local governments in Central Oregon have rolled out artificial intelligence chatbots that they say have saved hours of staff time, help in combing through documents, synthesizing emails, generating content for press releases and even rewriting website language.

Governments across the country face the question of how — or whether — AI could interact with the public to help make services more efficient, even while they grapple with potential risks of the new technology. That’s spurred a region-wide organized discussion in Central Oregon that could lead to new state and local policies on AI oversight.

The City of Bend began the process of using AI about two years ago, along with the rise in popularity of Chat GPT, said Adam Young, information security manager with the City.

“Right when Chat GPT blew up, we realized, employees are using this, we need to get ahead and start figuring out how we’re going to do it safely,” Young told the Source.

Chat GPT is a type of generative AI chatbot, “trained” with information on the internet to create text, image or video responses to prompts.

But Bend’s new AI program restricts employee use to one chatbot in particular: Microsoft 365 Copilot, which can draft or summarize emails, analyze data and create presentations.

“It’s just been a real productivity boost for a lot of the employees,” Young said.

Meanwhile, Deschutes County has adopted two different chatbots for staff use, mostly for administrative research and data analysis, said spokesperson Kim Katchur. That came alongside an AI policy adopted in 2024 that guides how the tools are used.

Bend adopted a similar policy in 2025, alongside a new steering committee on internal AI policy and trainings to help recognize when AI was providing biased or inaccurate information.

According to Young, about 400 of Bend’s 800 employees have asked to have Copilot on their computers. For about 60 of those employees, the chatbot is integrated with the suite of Microsoft Office apps. That way, it can form answers with information not only from the internet, but from an employee’s documents, calendars, spreadsheets and more.

Part of the reason Bend chose Copilot was because of its security measures, Young said. It blocks sensitive information like social security numbers and criminal justice data.

WHEN TO DISCLOSE

Bend’s policy says that staff should always fact check and validate work created with generative AI, and disclose when “AI is used to create an image or a document from scratch, or is used to significantly modify one.”

That can be a fine line.

Rene Mitchell, communication & engagement director with the City, said her department has used Copilot for

Peter Madsen

“Right when Chat GPT blew up, we realized, employees are using this, we need to get ahead and start figuring out how we’re going to do it safely.”

—Adam Young

anything from formatting information into a spreadsheet to summarizing community input to coming up with concepts for press releases.

Copilot also played a role in reshaping language on the City’s website. During a recent revamp of its website, the City told Copilot to help “adjust copy” — or rewrite — complicated or technical information at an eighth grade reading level, Mitchell said. Copilot’s copy was reviewed by subject-matter-expert staff for accuracy.

“In every case, staff did not accept verbatim what Copilot produced/recommended,” Mitchell said in an email.

Copilot’s role isn’t disclosed on the City’s website.

Mitchell’s department also uses Copilot for “support in generating concepts and content for social media and press releases.” Still, the City hasn’t made it clear when press releases included content generated by AI.

Mitchell said that’s justified based on the policy.

“The policy specifies that ‘not all uses of AI require citation,’ and in the case of its use in helping generate concepts and content for social media, press release, or the website, all material produced is edited and reshaped substantively by human hand,” Mitchell wrote in an email.

According to Young, Bend’s AI policy relies heavily on guidelines from cities that are part of the GovAI Coalition, a group of several hundred agencies formed by the City of San Jose to promote “responsible and purposeful AI in the public sector.”

How local governments should be using AI might be the focus of a regionwide civic assembly on AI hosted this fall, said Josh Burgess, director of the Central Oregon Civic Action Project. Governance and decision-making was a top issue in a recent poll conducted by the project, with the vast majority of respondents agreeing that governments should disclose when and how they’re using AI and justify the cost to

taxpayers. In September, the project will randomly select people across Central Oregon to be delegates to an assembly that will come up with a set of recommendations for policymakers.

Reporting from Cascade PBS has showed government officials in Washington state have relied increasingly on AI chatbots to draft letters, write emails to constituents and assist with policy reports. That showed both the potential utility of AI in government work but also the technology’s tendency to “hallucinate” or create factually inaccurate information.

Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler told the Source she doesn’t use Copilot for City business.

“I think AI tools can be useful in certain contexts, and can help city employees work more efficiently, within proper policies about when AI tool use is appropriate or not,” Kebler said in an email.

WHAT’S NEXT

While AI chatbots are now a widespread tool for local government staff, agencies aren’t using AI tools that the public would interact with — yet.

Katchur, the Deschutes County spokesperson, said the County is working toward adding a chatbot to its website that could help people get answers faster and find the services they need.

Young, who leads Bend’s AI efforts, said the City plans to look at “low risk, high value” areas to deploy public-facing AI. For example, other cities have used AI to speed up permitting times by helping developers shape their plans in advance of submitting their applications.

Those types of tools will take vetting, Young said.

“We want to be very, very cautious of, if the public’s going to interact with our AI solution, it’s extremely tied down on making sure the information fed back to that person is accurate,” he said.

SOURCE PICKS

THURSDAY 6/25

MT. BACHELOR SUMMER OPENING DAY

MOUNTAIN SUMMER KICKOFF

Mark your calendar for the start of the summer season on Thursday, June 25! The Bike Park, Sunset Dinners, Scenic Lift Rides, and ZipTours will officially open for daily operations. Celebrate the kickoff of summer with live music from Blackstrap Bluegrass. 10am-7pm at Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. Free.

THURSDAY 6/25

TEACHER SHOW: COMEDY FROM THE CLASSROOM

SCHOOL’S OUT!

Created and hosted by Don Gavitte, this show has been described as a “solution for teacher burnout” by NPR and a “must see” by Willamette Week and the Eugene Weekly. Grab a hall pass and head to this stand-up showcase, which offers a humorous take on classroom dynamics. 7:30-9pm at Volcanic Theatre Pub, 70 SW Century Dr., Bend. $26.77.

KPOV BEATLES SING-ALONG

21ST BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER

KPOV is celebrating turning 21! KPOV began broadcasting on June 26, 2005 and as a celebration and major fundraiser in honor of that event, they are hosting the Beatles Sing-Along, featuring music from JuJu Eyeball and other local artists and is dedicated to Rick Miller.7-10pm at The Commonwealth Pub, 30 SW Century Dr. Suite 100, Bend. Free.

FRIDAY 6/26

THE BIG DRUNK SPELLING BEE

SPELLING CHAOS

A live comedy game show where alcohol is the obstacle, spelling is the weapon, and the audience is part of the chaos. Contestants drink, spell, spin The Wheel of Bad Decisions and try to survive the funniest spelling bee in town. 21+ only. Drink responsibly. 7-9pm at Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $10.

WILDFLOWER SHOW & POLLINATOR FEST

BUZZ & BLOOM

Celebrate the 35th year of wildflowers and pollinators at this year’s festival! Enjoy a large display of responsibly foraged wildflowers, educational talks, wildflower walks, a marketplace full of flower/pollinator-forward vendors, food and drink, live music and more. Kids 0-15 years are free! 9am-3pm at Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, 57245 River Rd., Sunriver. $12.

SATURDAY 6/27

RHIANNON GIDDENS PRESENTS AMERICAN TUNES: LIFT EV’RY VOICE AND SING

FOLK MEETS SOUL

Performing Odetta’s “Water Boy” with, as the New York Times put it, “the fervor of a spiritual, the yips of a folk holler, and the sultry insinuation of the blues,” Giddens brought the star-studded audience to its feet. She was the talk of the lobby during intermission as those attendees unfamiliar with her Grammy Award–winning work as a member of African-American folk interpreters Carolina Chocolate Drops wondered who exactly Rhiannon Giddens was, with her elegant bearing, prodigious voice, and fierce spirit. 6:30pm at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr., Bend. $60-$111.

SATURDAY 6/27

BEND BLUES FESTIVAL

ALL-DAY BLUES

Honoring the blues' spirit of resilience, expression, and community building, the festival showcases both established and emerging artists, featuring headliner Thunderstorm Artis, and an array of local and regional acts. Noon-11pm at Silver Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $30-$40.

SUNDAY 6/28

BEND CIDER 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

CELEBRATING CIDER

Use'ta Do will perform their famous one-mic bluegrass, old-country & Americana from 3-5pm in the backyard, and there WILL be sparkles! Enjoy delicious ciders, beer, wine & n/a beverages. Light appetizers available, outside food welcome, kid & dog friendly. 1-5pm at Bend Cider Co., 64649 Wharton Ave., Tumalo. Free.

TUESDAY 6/30

AN EVENING WITH NASHVILLE AMERICANA DUO GOLDPINE

MODERN AMERICANA

Bold + gold harmonies straight from Nashville. Winner of the Rocky Mountain Songwriter Contest and seen on NPR's "Mountain Stage with Kathy Mattea" and the KC Chiefs National Anthem, Goldpine's brand of “aggressive Americana” is a flawless channel for their bold and reminiscent compositions. Moon Brewing, 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend. $14.

S SOUND Resisting the AI Assist

Local

musicians weigh in on the use of artificial intelligence in creating art

By Nic Moye

Artificial intelligence has fingers in nearly every part of life. But many artists see it as a watering down of creative license. While some see the efficiencies in using technology for the business side of the industry, many are adamantly opposed to the use of AI in making music.

Bend musician Eric Leadbetter of the Leadbetter Band says AI has no place music. “Music is all about human expression, not AI consumerism slop.” He says some bands use AI to make flyers and, on a grander scale, he’s seen AI generated bands on streaming platforms.

“There was a story of a guy who created an AI band, then created bots to stream the songs on repeat, and he made millions of dollars,” he says. Leadbetter’s personal antipathy for AI stems from how it disconnects people in a culture where people are already struggling to stay connected. And he has environmental concerns. “It uses an insane amount of water, and resources, amidst a water crisis in so many areas,” he explains. Computer servers powering AI models require constant cooling. An article by the environmental law institute found that, in 2023, data centers in the U.S. consumed 66 billion liters of water.

Brandon Campbell doesn’t use AI for writing, composing or recording. “For me, the magic of music lies entirely in the human element. I prefer music born out of a songwriter’s life experiences, their sweat, their distinct influences, and experimentation,” he explains. The Brandon Campbell Trio is a local acoustic group that performs

at venues throughout Central Oregon. While he doesn’t believe there’s space for AI in the creative process, he does see it as a helpful, practical tool.

“For artists acting as their own booking agents, publicists and managers, AI can be incredibly useful for streamlining administrative tasks,” he says. “For example, I built a “Gig Availability Calculator” using AI. I fed it all of our booked gigs and the band members’ blackout dates, so when a new booking opportunity comes in, the tool instantly flags any conflicts or close calls. For logistics like that it can be nice,” he explains.

Bend-based composer Chris Thomas believes that taking the human out of the music making process comes at the cost of true art. While he understands how AI can help organize a schedule or analyze a spreadsheet, it cannot replicate the creative spirit.

“AI-generated music tends to gravitate toward the bland, generic averages,” he says. Thomas composes music for film, television and theme parks, creating scores for dozens of programs and venues, including “Lost,” “Fortnite” and Knott’s Berry Farm.

Still, he acknowledges there can be a limited use of AI. “Take EQ, for example. Modern AI-powered tools can analyze a track and suggest frequency adjustments that would have taken much longer to find manually. That’s such a useful way to speed up the workflow. The risk comes when artists begin deferring to the tool.” Thomas says AI will most likely make the safest decisions rather than the most expressive or impactful ones.

“What makes art truly impactful and moving are often the very things that defy prediction. They’re the unexpected choices, the personal voice, the risks and the imperfections that reveal a human being behind the work. I mean, you’re free to decorate your home with soulless, generic hotel-room art. You’re equally free to fill your world with music that is artistically barren. The real question is whether this represents the kind of artistic culture we actually want to immerse ourselves in.”

Thomas says he’s lost work due to the rise of AI. He’s had film and themed entertainment clients drop him because companies can train AI to generate approximations of his style at no cost. But he wants people to be honest about their use of artificial intelligence.

“What fascinates me isn’t the AI output itself. It’s how often people speak about these works as though they genuinely created them,” he says. “I’m not opposed to technology. We all benefit from new tools. But there is a meaningful difference between using technology to empower people and using it to replace them. The choices we make now will help determine which future we’re building toward.”

Portland musician Jessy Ribordy, whose band, The Chilling Alpine Adventure, is performing at Silver Moon Brewing on June 26, says he never uses AI. “I’ve spent more than two decades

crafting and improving my skills, so I don’t actually feel the need for it at all and feel really proud of all my hard work and experience to get to this point.”

Like Thomas, he sees AI only as a tool to assist musicians with technical aspects of their work. “Like exporting stems, which is a time-consuming process that has nothing to do with creating the music itself.” Ribordy, too, says he is losing jobs. He says that smaller gigs, such as writing jingles, he once picked up between other projects are being replaced with AI.

He understands the lure of using the technology as an inexpensive way to create something but doesn’t think it should be used in work that’s “expression-based.” He’s frustrated that music made with AI is not clearly labeled and can dilute the purity of something created by hard work and emotion. “I think if you love what you do and you are passionate and driven, you will find a way to make your album — whether it’s through community banding together to help you because they believe in you, saving up money, selling your car to fund it, like I once did, or learning all the skills you can to offset the cost.”

Lessley Anderson, songwriter for the California band Ginger Molasses, which will perform in Bend on July 30, says her band doesn’t use AI because they genuinely enjoy doing the work themselves.

“We have used it in the past for making posters and are getting away from that now because it looks cheesy and dumb.”

AI ENHANCING THE CREATIVE PROCESS

A music company that’s embraced AI is Pulse Jet Studios based in San Francisco, which creates music videos. Founder John Gearty says the technology is a game changer. “We were making videos the old-fashioned way using expensive cameras and editing with Final Cut Pro. Storyboards would take us weeks. Shooting would take another month or so for a total of about $10,000 and a couple months of labor per video,” he says. “Now with our own custom tool, we can make storyboards in just 30 minutes, an entire music video in about two hours, and we can include real clips.”

Gearty admits it can be challenging to change attitudes among skeptics. “I think everyone holds mixed emotions about AI and musicians are no different.” He believes many musicians are using AI in some form but are hesitant to admit it. “It’s so incredibly powerful that I think in just a year or two we’ll be over that stigma… I’m hesitant to call it a tool because it’s much different than anything we’ve seen before. It is just another piece of technology that artists and musicians can choose to use or not.”

Gearty sees AI as part of an ongoing evolution in technology, and one that can be used to enhance the creative process. “I think we’re just scratching the surface of what AI can do, which is both incredibly exciting and scary for all of us. Artists are not alone in this. Even as a seasoned technologist who lived through the Dot com era, I’m both delighted and terrified to see an equal or bigger wave of technology that stands ready to change almost every facet of the way we live.”

FINAL THOUGHTS

Leadbetter, who is concerned about the negative impacts of an unregulated industry says, “One pro is that AI could be the catalyst to bring liberals, conservatives and everyone in between together, to stand up to protect and save our common ground.”

Ribordy remains steadfastly against using AI in the creative process. “The music industry has been destroyed enough by greed. This only further damages it and I’m not sure how musicians will survive it to be honest.” He goes on to say, “Music is human and nature’s expression. It belongs to living things.” No one put it more bluntly than Ribordy. “It’s wild to be alive during the destruction of music.”

Thomas is more magnanimous about the introduction of AI overall. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a frontrow seat to what may become some of the greatest breakthroughs in medicine, engineering, physics, and countless other fields,” he tells the Source. “I’m excited by the prospect of smarter cars, better computers, even smarter coffee makers.”

“While none of us can truly know where all of this is going, I would like to, at least — I’m trying to — maintain faith that people will always crave real, tactile human experiences,” Campbell from the Brandon Campbell Trio says. “And a great way to fight this is to go out and see some live, local music!”

She’s also encountered a backlash about the use of AI. “Recently a club, Thee Stork Club, in Oakland came out hard and said they would no longer accept promotional posters from artists who use AI,” she says. The club is requiring all band flyers to be made by humans. But that, Anderson says, can be expensive and a barrier for small bands.

“I’m not somebody who is fully antiAI,” she explains. “We have used AI to build tools to help the business side of what we do. One member of Ginger Molasses used AI to help build a database of clubs and venues throughout California and compiled a list of bands who had played at those venues in the last few years. He also used AI to build out playlists of music made by bands who had recently been booked at festivals we also want to play at, so that we, as a band, could better understand the curation of said festivals.

He contends that AI generates new material by learning a style, thereby making a generative, creative artform. “For those who say it removes individuality or creativity, I don’t think you’re paying attention,” Gearty says. “I point people to some of my favorite AI artists such as Kelly Boesch. I’d recommend your readers watch a little Kelly Boesch art while reading this. She’s making incredible music and video that pushes the creative limits.”

Eric Leadbetter

Sat, June 27

Bend Blues Fest - Silver Moon Brewing Sun, June 28

Deschutes Brewery Beer Garden ericleadbettermusic.com/shows

Brandon Campbell Trio Sun, June 28 4pm - GoodLife Brewing Sat, July 11 6:30pm - Portello Lounge brandoncampbellm sic.com/performances

The Chilling Alpine Adventure Fri, June 26 7pm

Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend chillingalpineadventure.com/

Ginger Molasses Thu, July 30

Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend gingermolasses.com/

CALENDAR

24 Wednesday

The Commonwealth Pub Pete Kartsounes Pete is an award winning singer-songwriter, flat picker, and cutting-edge musician’s musician. 7:30-9:30pm. Free.

Crosscut Warming Hut No 5 High Strung Relax with a pint and enjoy great local music in our garden from 6-8pm. Free.

Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot Handpicked Series by Tom Nechville & Linda Leavitt Donation proceeds supporting CoreSisters.org or the Latin Community Association. 6-8pm.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater All The Feelings Tour with Metric, Broken Social Scene +Stars The Toronto-based Metric has won a large audience playing the club circuit. 6pm. $60-$256. McMenamins Old St. Francis School SHINE Sing and dance to songs from the ‘70s to present. 7-10pm.

25 Thursday

The Commonwealth Pub BendreTheGiant with Palo Soprano (Album Release) Mix of Indie Rock, Bedroom Pop and psychedelia are all cooked together. 7:30-10:30pm. Free.

The Coyote The Bend Bachelorette Comedy Show Start the night off with music from Atillion. 6-7:30pm. $10.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Live at the Vineyard: Mango Stew This trio delivers all the feel-good music. 5-8pm. $15.

Mountain Burger Summer Kickoff Party at Mountain Burger! Live music by Cover City! 5-9pm. Free.

Village Green City Park Kick-Off Concert with The Rumble & Wolf Jett Live performances, interactive art activities and local food vendors! 5:30-8:30pm. Free.

Volcanic Theatre Pub Teacher Show: Comedy from the Classroom Hosted by Don Gavitte. A NSFW take on classroom dynamics. 7:30-9pm. $26.77.

26 Friday

Bend Cider Co. The Leesome Band Husband/ wife duo performing mix of originals & covers. Free.

Blacksmith Public House Heller Highwater Band A family-friendly night out with live music, a full bar and food trucks! 6:30-9:30pm. Free.

The Cellar James Townsend Acoustic vibes. 6-8pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub KPOV Beatles Sing-Along For KPOV's 21st birthday, they are doing a Beatles Sing-Along celebration and fundraiser! 7-10pm. Free.

Creekside Food Court Chasin’ Bandits Playing country favorites & rock anthems, this talented group delivers an energetic performance. 6:30-9pm. Free.

Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards Dry Canyon Stampede This country band will be playing music you can get down to. 5-8pm. $25.

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Ticket and promote your events with BendTicket! →

Hayden Homes Amphitheater Parker McCollum A man that’s earned enough to wear a gold chain with the down-home appeal of living as a simple cowboy. 6:30pm. $83-$263.

Portello Lounge Maria Jackson Soulful vocals, stellar musicians and infectious energy! 6:30-8:30pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing The Big Drunk Spelling Bee Contestants drink, spell, spin The Wheel of Bad Decisions, and try to survive! 8-9pm. $10.

Smith Rock State Park SUNSET SOUNDS Partake in a cacao ceremony, reiki and be enveloped in live sound. 6:45-8:45pm. $48.

27 Saturday

Camp Clay Bend Camp Clay Summer Market

In-house ceramic artists, local vendors, drink carts, live music and more! 10am-5pm. Free.

Century Commons Taps and Trucks

The Jugulars Classic rock band playing everyone’s favorites. 6-9pm. Free.

Cheba Hut Chronic Comics Outdoor comedy show! 7-9pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub The Substitutes Rock and roll! 8-10pm.

Craft Kitchen & Brewery Comedy at Craft Kitchen Hosted by BitsNSkits! 8-9:30pm. $15-$20.

Deschutes Brewery & Public House

Drag Brunch Dress in best attire and get ready for a morning full of fun! 10am-2pm. $28.52.

The Domino Room Dizgo & Mamasboy

Blending jamtronica with the deep-pocket pulse of funk and psychedelic rock. 9pm-Midnight.

$18.49 - $53.46.

Frankie’s M&MS Trio and Friends A night of jazz! 6-8pm. $15.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater

Rhiannon Giddens presents American Tunes: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Giddens is known for her prodigious voice and fierce spirit. 6:30pm. $67-$111.

M&J Tavern SwitchBack Woman fronted vocals and classic rock covers! 9pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing 2nd

Annual Bend Blues Festival Showcasing both established and emerging artists and featuring headliner Thunderstorm Artis! Noon-11pm. $30-$40.

Wild Rooster Bar & Grill Chasin’ Bandits Live @ Wild Rooster An evening of country and rockin’ fun! 7-10pm. Free.

28 Sunday

Bend Cider Co. Bend Cider 5th Anniversary Party Use’ta Do will be performing from 3-5pm. Light appetizers available, kid & dog-friendly. 1-5pm. Free.

The Commonwealth Pub Aaron Golay & The Original Sin Golay’s powerful, soulful voice is the driving force behind the band’s songcraft. 4-6pm. Free.

River’s Place Sequoia Rose A fresh edge to both country and bluegrass traditions. 6-8pm. Free. Volcanic Theatre Pub Outdoor Courtyard High Fade Genre - Funk rock. 6pm.

29 Monday

Bevel Craft Brewing Lord of the Rings Movie Trivia Questions fit for true fans. Costumes encouraged. Family friendly! 6-8pm. Free.

30 Tuesday

Continuum, A School of Shadow Yoga Cosmic Binaural Sound Bath Explore deep relaxation with sound and frequency 6-7pm. $25.

GoodLife Brewing Nicholas Fennel and Kenneth Bryant Raw Folk and Blues powered by two guitars. 6-8pm. Free.

Initiative Brewing - The Hub Bingo at Initiative in Redmond! A fun night supporting the Redmond Senior Center! 5:30-7:30pm. Free.

Silver Moon Brewing Goldpine Bold + gold harmonies straight from Nashville. 7-9pm. $14

1 Wednesday

La Pine Frontier Days July 1st-4th July Fourth celebrations. 50 year anniversary. 10am10pm. Free.

Midtown Yacht Club Bingo For Bunnies! Hosted by Ember’s Bunny Rescue. 6-8pm.

MUSIC

Big Ponderoo Two-day music and art festival. Food, drink, music and good vibes all in the quaint city of Sisters. June 26, 3pm and June 27, 11am. Downtown Sisters, Oak Street and Cascade, Sisters. $25.

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.

Cowboy Poetry A celebration of 81 years of the CRR with Around the Campfire: Open Mic, an afternoon of Western music and cowboy poetry. June 27, 1-3pm. A.R. Bowman Museum - Community Room, 246 N. Main St., Prineville. Contact: 541-447-3715. sean.briscoe@crookcountyor.gov. Free.

Pete Kartsounes Performance Based out of Bend, Pete Kartsounes has been bringing people together around the globe with his award-winning songs, guitar wizardry, and smoky voice for over three decades. June 30, 2-3pm. Redmond Public Library, 827 SW Deschutes Ave., Redmond. Contact: 5413121032. lizg@deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

DANCE

Adult Ballet Class Learn or rediscover the art of ballet on Tuesday nights! Adult Ballet is an open-level class for adult learners and dancers. Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 and 6:45-7:45pm. Acadamie De Ballet Classique, 1900 NE 3rd St #104, Bend. Contact: 541-382-4055. dance@abcbend. com. Price varies.

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

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

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

available in 100mg singles & 10 packs

Central Oregon’s biggest celebration of America’s 250th — right here in Redmond.

For 250 years, the United States has been shaped by the people, communities and ideals that continue to define the nation today. In 2026, communities across the country are coming together to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and reflect on the journey that has brought us to this moment. This historic milestone offers an opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, honor the achievements of the past and look toward the future with optimism and purpose.

Redmond’s America 250 celebration brings that spirit to Central Oregon through a series of events, activities and experiences designed to bring the community together. From family friendly gatherings and live entertainment to educational programs and local traditions, the celebration highlights the people and stories that make Redmond a special place to call home. Whether you are a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, we invite you to join us in commemorating America’s 250th birthday and celebrating the community that continues to shape its future.

Keep the Celebration Going: July 4

Celebrate all weekend long in Redmond! Join the community on Saturday, July 4 for Redmond’s patriotic parade and fireworks celebration.

JULY 3 SCHEDULE

3–7pm — Redmond Farmer’s Market

4pm — Beer from Redmond’s Wild Ride Brewing

4–8pm — Vendors, Food Trucks & Community Booths

Explore local vendors, food trucks, marketplace booths and family-friendly activities throughout Centennial Park.

4–8pm — Kids Zone + Free Activities

Bring the whole family for bouncy houses, splash park access, lawn games, face painting and patriotic fun.

4–8pm — Free Snow Cones & Hot Dogs

Enjoy classic summer treats while supplies last.

5–8pm — First Friday Art Walk

Living History Presentations

Interactive presentations celebrating American history, heritage and community.

“As American As Apple Pie” Competition

A fun, patriotic-themed competition celebrating tradition, creativity and community spirit.

Enter online at redmondu250usa.com.

Patriotic Pet Costume Contest

Dress your pet in their best red, white and blue for a festive community contest.

Enter online at redmondu250usa.com.

6–8pm — Live Music: Motel Kalifornia

Dance, sing along and celebrate with classic American rock hits.

JULY 4 HIGHLIGHTS

• Redmond Fourth of July Parade

• Community festivities

• Fireworks celebration: Starts 10pm

LIVE MUSIC FROM MOTEL KALIFORNIA

6–8PM

Featuring members of High Street and Precious Byrd, Motel Kalifornia brings a high-energy tribute to iconic American rock bands, including the Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival and more classic hits from the 1970s.

FREE Family Fun

Enjoy a full evening of free activities and giveaways, including:

• FREE red, white and blue snow cones

• FREE hot dogs

• FREE bouncy houses

• Splash park fun

• Patriotic giveaways

• Face painting

• Lawn games

• Living history presentations

• “As American As Apple Pie” Competition

• Patriotic Pet Costume Contest

• Vendors, food trucks and community booths

(All giveaways are available while supplies last)

Patriotic Pet Costume Contest “As American As Apple Pie” Competition Living History Performances

Vendors & Food Trucks

Keep the Celebration Going July 4th!

Join us for one of Redmond’s most cherished traditions as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday. It’s a morning of community, connection, and the spirit of independence that unites us all. Watch the Parade. Or Be in it.

Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a celebration filled with local pride, vibrant floats, and the joy of gathering in the heart of our town. Everyone is welcome—whether you’re wearing red, white, and blue, or just a smile.

Saturday, July 4, 2026

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: Parade on 6th St. from Dogwood to Forest Ave., Downtown Redmond

See Fireworks Light up Our Big Sky. The show starts at dark. People’s faces light up soon thereafter. Fireworks are launched from the Expo Center. Remember there’s no parking there or along the adjacent roadways. Instead, lay down a blanket in Centennial Park, pull up a chair at Juniper Golf Course, or grab a seat on a rooftop deck. You can watch the show from pretty much anywhere in town.

Fireworks celebration

Redmond Fourth of July Parade

Community festivities

Hayden’s mother, Virginia, did more than help found our company in Redmond 37 years ago. She found the spirit of generosity in everyone she met. She knew a shoulder to lean on was stronger than any 2x4. And that leading by example was the greatest gift of all. So, we’ve partnered with nonprofits, provided the dream of homeownership to deserving families, and empowered every team member to be the next generation of givers. We call it Give As You Go™ . And it turns out Virginia was right. The more we give, the more grateful we are.

Cuban Dance Classes & Socials!! Kick summer off right by learning to dance! Rueda de Casino is an energetic, community-oriented dance from Cuba, where partners dance intermingled and synchronously with other couples. It’s a blast - join our growing community! Price is for 4-week progressive series. Class re-starts every month. Dance socials after most classes. Mondays, 6-7:15pm. Through July 27. Upp Liquids, 550 SW Industrial way, Bend. Contact: 541-610-8865. bendrueda@gmail.com. $40. Lindy Hop Social Dance and Lessons Take back your night life! A vintage swing dance turned contemporary global phenomenon. Danced to classic jazz standards, Lindy Hop is an energetic, athletic and goofy way to connect with a partner. Intro to Lindy Hop, (no experience needed) 6pm, Beyond Basics, (some experience needed) 6:30, Social Dance at 7:15 Sundays, 6-8:30pm. The Space, 63830 Clausen Rd, Bend. Contact: N/A. lindyhopcentral@gmail.com. $7-$12.

Lost and Found Bellydance Classes

Lost and Found Bellydance offers 6-week progressive sessions in improvisational bellydance, which covers foundational movements, formations and finger cymbals. Come join us in a fun and welcoming space--No experience necessary: this class is suitable for beginners. Studio C--upstairs; Entry door is on the right of the building Mondays, 7-8pm. Through June 29. Terpsichorean Dance Studio, 1601 NW Newport Ave, Bend. Contact: 541-420-5416. lostandfoundbellydance@gmail.com. $75.

Oregon Origins Project VIII: Echoes of Eruption Oregon Origins Project presents a bold and multifaceted exploration of Newberry Volcano in central Oregon, the largest volcano in the Cascade Range. The program includes a new work for contemporary dance inspired by the caldera, an evening of Northern Paiute legends and stories, and an exhibition exploring geology and transformation. June 25-26, 7:30-9:30pm. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: oregonoriginsproject@gmail.com. $10.

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

Artist Talk and Film Screening: September Orange Artist-in-Residence, Julia Oldham, shares her recent research which blends scientific inquiry with elements of science fiction while creating narratives that reveal ecological transformation and environmental rhythms. Oldham has and continues to work across Oregon’s various landscapes. June 29, 6-7pm. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, 68467 Three Creek Rd., Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0700. moriah@roundhousefoundation.org. Free.

ARTS + CRAFTS

Cute Patriotic Gnome Paint Party @ SCP Hotel in Redmond This is a pre-paid event. Please visit https://www.imaginaryrebelpaintparties.com/ to book your seat! There will be a raffle and prizes to win! July 1, 6-8pm. Provisions Market at SCP Redmond, 521 SW Sixth St., Redmond. Contact: 949-677-3510. imaginaryrebelartstudio@gmail.com. $35.

All Levels Wheel Throwing Beginner and intermediate wheel-throwing techniques. Each class is catered to students’ needs. Students start with clay prep, and work through to glazing a finished piece. Total of 5 classes. Wednesdays, 5:308:30pm. Through July 8. Sundays, 10am-1pm. Through July 26. Camp Clay Bend, 147 NE Olney Ave, Bend. Contact: jess@campclay.studio. $350. American Institute of Architects Oregon Chapter People’s Choice Awards The American Institute of Architects Oregon Chapter is hosting a design competition open to the public! Posters of the submitted projects will be on display in the second floor hallway of 1000 Wall. View the projects and vote! Fri, June 5, 5-8pm and Mondays-Fridays, 8am-8pm. Through July 10. 1000 Wall Second Floor, 1000 NW Wall Street, Bend. Free.

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

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

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

Bird Family Tree Watercolor Bring a cheerful flock to life in this whimsical Family Tree Watercolor Lesson! With Victoria Gobel. June 26, Noon-2pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-6686708. info@bendteal.com. $50.

Blacksmithing 201: Forge a Knife

Blade - 2 Day Workshop This 2-day course focuses on the forging techniques needed to produce sharp-edged tools of high-carbon steel. Emphasis is on learning the fundamental skills needed to forge a good knife. June 23, 5:307:30pm and June 24, 5:30-7:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $299.

Book Arts Summer Camp for Teens

Dive into the imaginative world of artist’s books in this hands-on teen camp! Create unique, 3D books using folds, stitching, and more. All materials provided for ages 13–17. June 29-July 2, 1-3:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $200.

Book Binding: Make Your Own Journal

Learn the art of hand-sewn bookbinding in this two-day workshop! Create 3–4 personalized journals using Pamphlet and Coptic stitches, explore book anatomy, and experiment with cover designs. June 24-25, 5:30-7:30pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $100.

Craft & Connect An afternoon of fellowship and craft. Bring any small project and materials to work alongside community members and enjoy conversation with fellow artists. June 30, 3-5pm. Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, 68467 Three Creek Rd., Sisters. Contact: 541-904-0700. moriah@roundhousefoundation.org. Free.

Create + Connect Pottery Workshop Whether brand new to pottery or just looking for a creative night out, this hands-on class is the perfect way to create, connect, and have fun. Spots are limited- sign up online! June 28, 2-4pm. The Grove Market Hall, 921 NW Mount Washington Drive, Bend. Contact: grovebendevents@gmail.com. $77.

Create Your Own Tarot Card Deep dive into two of the Major Arcana from the traditional Rider Waite Smith deck. Then reimagine a card using personalized symbolism and imagery! June 25, 6-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-6686708. info@bendteal.com. $65.

Date Night Cutting Boards Skip the dinner-and-a-movie routine and spend the evening in the woodshop crafting beautiful, handmade one-plank cutting boards. Perfect for couples, friends and family members—this class is designed to be social, relaxed, and rewarding. June 26, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $159.

DIY Leather Rose Workshop A fun and creative evening crafting a unique leather rose! Whether a seasoned maker or trying something new, this beginner-friendly workshop will guide one step-by-step through shaping, forming, and painting a beautiful leather rose. June 27, 5-7pm. Craft Kitchen & Brewery, (no address), (no city). Contact: 541-668-1766. craftkitchenandbrewery@gmail.com. $65.

Fused Glass Plant Stakes: Mushrooms

Create beautiful flowers or mushrooms perfect for the yard or potted plants all year long. Play with colored glass and make garden art. This workshop is great for beginner glass artists and people who would just like to learn fused glass. June 24, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@ diycave.com. $159.

Garden Pottery Workshop Welcome Summer with a hands-on pottery workshop celebrating creativity and gardening. Build garden stakes and whimsical mushrooms, learn the basics of handbuilding in a relaxed setting, and leave with handmade, functional art perfect for home or garden. June 27, 11am-1pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6708. info@bendteal. com. $110.

Intro to Pottery: Create & Connect at Juniper Preserve A relaxed, beginner-friendly pottery workshop focused on the art of pinch pots. Create functional handmade pieces like bud vases, ring dishes, planters, or wine tumblers while enjoying a creative and social atmosphere. All clay, tools, glazing, and firing are included. Finished pieces will be ready for pickup June 25, 6-8pm. Juniper Preserve, 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend. Contact: 415308-4538. krista@lalucestudio.com. $75.

Intro to Pottery: Create & Connect at The Grove A relaxed beginner-friendly pottery workshop exploring pinch pots. Create handmade pieces like bud vases, ring dishes, planters, or wine tumblers in a welcoming, creative atmosphere. All clay, tools, glazing, and firing are included. Finished pottery will be ready for pickup in approximately four weeks. June 28, 2-4pm. The Grove, 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend. Contact: 415-308-4538. krista@lalucestudio.com. $75.

Jewlery Workshop-Elegant Cuff Workshop This is a workshop to design and create one’s own copper or brass cuff bracelet. Suitable for all skill levels, this course covers techniques such as cutting, shaping, stamping and more. Tue, June 30, 6-8pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-3882283. classes@diycave.com. $139.

Kids Cutting Board Workshop (Ages 11-17) This hands-on workshop introduces young makers to the craft of woodworking in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. In this kid-friendly workshop, participants will design and build their very own cutting board. June 24, 5-7:30pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@diycave. com. $119.

Leather Earrings Class Join Kailey and make two pairs of leather earrings at the Tea + Art Lounge. Tell your friends and make it the perfect girls night out. June 30, 6-8pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-668-6708. info@bendteal. com. $65.

Let’s Get Sewcial! Develop sewing skills and build creative community with Fashion Workshop. Bring a sewing or fashion project or Fashion Workshop can help give ideas! Youth under 13 should be accompanied by an adult. Wed, June 24, 5:30-7:30pm and Wed, July 15, 5:30-7:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-3395. emilyc@ deschuteslibrary.org. Free.

Open Lathe Night Practice newly obtained skills under the guidance of one of the instructions. This class is specifically designed for new turners wanting to become more comfortable with general lathe operation, and more experienced turners who want to hone techniques taught in class. Prerequisite: Intro to Lathe. Thu, June 25, 6-9pm. DIY Cave, 444 SE Ninth St. Suite 150, Bend. Contact: 541-388-2283. classes@ diycave.com. $45.

CALENDAR EVENTS

SAA 4th Friday Artwalk in Sisters Visit the Art Galleries of Sisters for great time, beautiful art, good company, demonstrations, restaurants and sponsoring food venues during and following the walk. Fourth Friday of every month, 10am-7pm. Through Nov. 27. Downtown Sisters, Hood Avenue., Sisters. Contact: 541-719-8581. events@sistersartsassociation.org. Free.

Sew Easy: Fit to You — Alterations 101 Learn to alter your own clothes with professional seamstress Sabrina of Bend Alterations, who brings 45+ years of experience! In this intimate, hands-on class, you’ll master hemming, darts and more. Basic machine knowledge required. Space is extremely limited— please pre-register! June 27, 1-4pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@ gmail.com. z475.

Stepping Stones Design and cast your own concrete stepping stone in this hands-on mosaic workshop for all ages! Whether you dream up a shimmering sun, a colorful creature, or a geometric masterpiece, we provide all the tools to bring it to life. A fun, creative keepsake for the garden. Please pre-register! June 29, 5:30-7pm. FREAK’N ART, 1265 NW Wall st., Bend. Contact: 541-508-7438. hellofreaknart@gmail.com. $70..

Surreal Painting (teens and tweens)

Drop the kids off for 45 minutes of creative fun with Ms. Alyssa as they learn about surrealism. Perfect for tweens and teens. Ages 11 to 14. June 27, 1-1:45pm. Bend Tea and Art Lounge, 1024 NW Bond St, Suite 101, Bend. Contact: 541-6686708. info@bendteal.com. $30.

PRESENTATIONS + EXHIBITS

Central Oregon PubTalk Presented by Economic Development for Central Oregon in partnership with InventOR. They will kick off InventOR’s 10th Annual Finals with a special alumni panel hosted at OSU-Cascades. June 25, 4:30-7pm. Ray Hall Atrium, OSU-Cascades, 1500 SW Chandler Ave, Bend. $25-$48.

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

Oregon’s Classic Hikes with Eli Boschetto Hiking Expert and Author Eli will be sharing an insider’s guide to hiking and backpacking some of Oregon’s most spectacular settings from his two newest guides, 100 Classic Hikes: Oregon and Backpacking Oregon. June 24, 5:30-7pm. Broken Top Bottle Shop, 1740 NW Pence Ln., Bend. Contact: 541-382-2616 ext. 402. sg@oregonwild.org. Free.

THEATER

Once Upon a Mattress Ponderosa Players bring the musical comedy, “Once Upon a Mattress,” an uproarious update of Hans Christian Andersen’s “Princess and the Pea” that will have the audience laughing all night long! Thu, June 25, 7-10pm, Fri, June 26, 7-10pm and Sat, June 27, 2-5 and 7-10pm. Ponderosa Playhouse, 211 NE Revere Ave. Ste. 4, Bend. Contact: 541-4101487. info@ponderosaplayers.com. $15-$35.

OPA Presents Broadway & Dis-

ney Hit “Frozen” OPA is thrilled to present the full-length Broadway version of Disney hit “Frozen.” The magic brought to life by OPA’s Brava cast with full orchestra, aerial silks, powerhouse vocals and high energy dance. Fri, June 26, 6:309pm, Sat, June 27, 2-4:30 and 6:30-9pm and Sun, June 28, 3-5:30pm. Ridgeview High School, 4555 SW Elkhorn Ave., Redmond. Contact: theatre@ ovationpa.com. $15.

WORDS

The Beaver Den - Beaver Book club

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

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

Healing the Land Teaches Us Who

We Are, Dr. Maceo Carrillo Martinet A livestream in the bookstore to discuss Healing the Land Teaches Us Who We Are: How Indigenous Cultural Resistance Can Restore the Earth, Recover Community, and Create Sustainable Futures, publishing June 9th. June 30, 6:30-7:30pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. $5.

Hello! Storytime Stories and 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 your listening ears and a smile for a fun half hour with Kathy! June 24, 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.

Late Night Shopping & Coloring with Coco Wyo An evening of late night shopping with free coloring sheets and bookmarks from Coco Wyo! They will have markers and colored pencils available! June 26, 5-8pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

Quiet Writing Time Bring personal work, read a book, or answer emails. Attendees come when they can, leave when they want. Free, open network WiFi available. Tuesdays, 9:30-11am. Through Oct. 27. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 541-312-1032. lizg@dpls.lib.or.us. Free.

Rediscovered Reads Book Club Discuss Stay True: A Memoir (Pulitzer Prize Winner) by Hua Hsu. June 24, 6-7pm. Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mount Washington Dr., #110, Bend. Contact: 541-306-6564. events@roundaboutbookshop.com. Free.

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

ETC.

Author Event: Jolene Tyler Meet local author Jolene Tyler at Herringbone Bookstore on June 24 at 6 PM. Discover The Light Between Us, a cozy romantasy with a criminal twist, danger, and romance. June 24, 6pm. Herringbone Bookstore, 422 SW 6th Street, Redmond. Contact: 541-526-1491. herringbonebooksevents@gmail. com. Free.

Elixir Bar Herbal happy hour, Apothecary style. Discover seasonal elixirs, refreshing botanical beverages, and healing teas crafted by our herbalists. Come gather, sip, and savor the abundance of the season in a welcoming space dedicated to connection and wellness. Fridays-Saturdays, 11am-5pm and Sundays, 11am2pm. Through Dec. 27. The Peoples Apothecary, 1841 NE Division Street, Bend. Contact: 5417282368. classes@thepeoplesapothecary. net. $5-$8.

Got Juniper? Western Juniper Ecology & Management Explore western juniper’s growing role in Central Oregon. Learn what drives its expansion, how to recognize its ecological traits, and tools for management. Consider strategies to balance juniper’s impacts with broader ecosystem and land management goals. June 29, 6-7:30pm. OSU Deschutes County Extension Service, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond. Contact: 541-516-0934. jenna.deibel@ oregonstate.edu. Free.

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. 3v3 Basketball Tournament - Beats & Buckets with live DJs! The basketball event features a 3-on-3 tournament, 3-point contest, free throw contest, skills challenge, DJs, MCs, and family-friendly entertainment. $5 fan $25 Friday night contests $150 a team. Fri, June 26, 7-10pm, Sat, June 27, 7-10pm and Sun, June 28, 8am-8pm. The Boys & Girls Club, 500 NW Wall St, Bend. Contact: beatsandbuckets67@gmail. com. Prices vary.

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. Cascade Lakes Relay Visit their website for the details on relay and to view this year’s course map. June 26 and June 27. Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St., Bend. Prices vary.

Crooked River Rodeo Over 450 rodeo contestants compete for a $100,000 prize. Thursday is family-friendly night; Friday is Local Heroes Night, Saturday is Red-White and Rodeo Night. Enjoy food, drinks and an awesome show. Thu, June 25, 5:30pm, Fri, June 26, 5:30pm and Sat, June 27, 5:30pm. Crook County Fairgrounds, 1280 S Main St., Prineville, Prineville. $25 and up. Elders or Encroachers? An OldGrowth Juniper Walk Explore an oldgrowth juniper landscape, observing mature stands and discussing expansion and change over time. Reflect on management approaches and shared perspectives. Expect ~½ mile of walking on uneven, sandy terrain. Bring water and sun protection; no established trails. June 27, 8-10:30am. The Greenlee Preserve, Hunnell Road & Harris Way, Bend. Contact: 541-5160934. jenna.deibel@oregonstate.edu. $5.

Mt. Bachelor Summer Opening Day Mark your calendar for the start of the summer season on Thursday, June 25! The Bike Park, Sunset Dinners, Scenic Lift Rides, and ZipTours will officially open for daily operations. Celebrate the kickoff of summer with live music from Blackstrap Bluegrass, and stay tuned for more details coming soon. June 25, 10am-7pm. Mt. Bachelor, 13000 Century Drive, Bend. TBD.

PNW Juniors Disc Golf Event (Ages 13-18) Open to all skill levels, this PDGA C-Tier tournament welcomes juniors ages 6–18 for a fun weekend of competition, contests, lunch, and a disc included with registration. Juniors 6-12 on Saturday, Juniors 13-18 on Sunday. June 28, 9am-3pm. Seventh Mountain Resort, 18575 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: airmedina1@gmail. com. $20.

PNW Juniors Disc Golf Event (Ages 6-12) Join the PNW Junior Disc Golf Event at Seventh Mountain Resort June 27–28! Open to all skill levels, this PDGA C-Tier tournament welcomes juniors ages 6–18 for a fun weekend of competition, contests, lunch, and a disc included with registration. Juniors 6-12 on Saturday, Juniors 13-18 on Sunday June 27, 9-3am. Seventh Mountain Resort, 18575 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 3304613735. airmedina1@gmail.com. 20.

Predators of Central Oregon Join the Deschutes Land Trust to explore the world of predators—bobcat, cougar, fox, coyote, wolf, black bear, and more. While it’s extremely unlikely that any predators will be seen during the hike, Gus will help participants become more aware of clues wildlife leave behind during their daily activities. June 26, 9am-12:30pm. Metolius Preserve, near Camp Sherman, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

Wildflower Hike Join the Deschutes Land Trust for a hike and explore the forests of the Metolius Preserve. The Metolius area boasts a unique combination of wetter plants from the west side of the Cascades along with the drier eastern Cascade vegetation. The group will explore this fascinating transition zone while searching for wildflowers. June 28, 9am-Noon. Metolius Preserve, near Camp Sherman, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

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

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! Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Crux Fermentation Project, 50 SW Division St., Bend. Contact: 425-354-8867. leifawiebe@gmail.com. Free.

BUGS (Bend Ukulele Group) Weekly

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

CivicsLab: I Had No Idea Ever found out about a local decision after it happened and thought, “I had no idea”? You’re not alone. Embrace Bend’s CivicsLab is a welcoming, nonpartisan space to ask questions, learn the basics, and leave with clear next steps for staying informed and getting involved in Bend. June 27, 1-2:30pm. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: embracebend@gmail.com. Free.

Go Electric! Weatherization for Income-Qualified Households Learn about no- and low-cost options like insulation, sealing and energy-saving upgrades. Hear from a panel of local experts about programs, eligibility and resources available. June 24, 5:30-7:30pm. Bend City Hall, 710 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541693-2161. mlee@bendoregon.gov. Free.

It’s Not a Ceasefire Karim Bouris will give a talk entitled “It’s Not a Ceasefire.” Karim is a Palestinian-American activist who is CEO of the award-winning agency Mixte Communications. He grew up in Lebanon, and through his own and his family’s story, he will share the tragic history between Lebanon and Israel. June 25, 5-7:30pm. New Bend Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini St. (off of SE 27th), Bend. Contact: 541-388-1793. philbertr46@gmail.com. Free.

Locals Night We love our Bend community, and Locals Night is our way of saying thank you. It’s our chance to unite neighbors and build a close-knit community. Show your Bend or Redmond ID to enjoy exclusive specials all day long! Last Wednesday of every month, Noon-9pm. Contact: (541) 246-3266. info@amaterrawines. com. Free.

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

Mission-Driven Storytelling in the Age of AI Most organizations are sitting on stories that have the power to change minds, drive people to action, inspire volunteers and donors, and build real community. Learn how to build a storytelling strategy to stand out in the Age of AI. June 24, 10am-Noon. Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini Street, Bend. Contact: 503-330-7477. quinn@storybasedbrands.com. $42.

OSU-Cascades Tours for Community Groups Join OSU-Cascades for free monthly community tours showcasing campus history, academic programs, and sustainability initiatives. Walk through Tykeson and Edward J. Ray halls, view public art, and see how a former pumice mine is being transformed into a vibrant university campus and innovation district. *Registration Required* Fri, June 26, 10-11:30am. OSU-Cascades, 1500 SW Chandler Dr., Bend. Free.

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

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

FUNDRAISING

Classic Car Show Start your engines for this summer kick off Car Show that brings together the community and classic cars to raise funds for local charities. This year it is supporting the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause close to our hearts. June 26, 2-4pm. Touchmark at Pilot Butte, 1125 NE Watt Way, Bend. Contact: 541-330-6000. Free.

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

Luau Fundraiser Tri-tip bbq, hosted beer and wine, live music, silent auction, raffles, live auction and a great time! For a $35 suggested donation, have a blast at this 6th annual “Friends of the Luau” fundraiser - All proceeds go to ClearPath Healthcare and Partners in Care! June 27, Noon-5pm. Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Free.

Luau Fundraiser - Proceeds Support Hospice! Raffles, silent auction, hosted beer and wine, live music, live auction, tri-tip and more! Price listed is a suggested donation. June 27, Noon-5pm. Centennial Park, Evergreen, Between 7th and 8th St., Redmond. Contact: 208-863-2804. rooricht@msn.com. $35.

EVENTS + MARKETS

Dog Dayz Market Shop, sip and vibe with your furry friend by your side! June 28, Noon3pm. Cheba Hut, 1288 SW Simpson Ave., Bend. Contact: 541-388-8400. jennee.elliff@chebahut. com. Free.

Elevation Farmers Market Food, handmade goods, music and the good ol’ feeling of community. Shop and support local makers and farmers. Fridays, 3-7pm. Through Oct. 30. Elevation Bend, 61334 S U.S. Highway 97, Bend. Free.

Know Native Plants Get to know native Central Oregon plants, why they are important, and how to garden for the highest ecological impact. Registration Required at bit.ly/knownativeplants. June 24, 6-7pm. Worthy Brewing - Main Pub and Brewery, 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-316-0080. info@worthygardenclub.org. 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.

Sunriver Saturday Market From handmade candles to locally grown produce, the fourth annual Sunriver Saturday Market features more than 45 vendors selling locally made, grown or produced items. High quality items made in Central Oregon or Oregon. Last Saturday of every month, 9am-1pm. Through Sept. 26. SHARC, 57250 Overlook Rd., Sunriver. Contact: 971-282-3970. exec@sunriverchamber.com. Free.

FAMILY + KIDS

Kids’ Entrepreneur Market An entirely kid-run, eco-friendly market for ages 7–17 where young entrepreneurs sell handmade artwork, crafts, food, toys, jewelry, and more. Real-world experience that sparks creativity, builds confidence, and teaches business and life skills — all while having a blast! June 27, 1:30-4:30pm. Redmond Library, 827 Southwest Deschutes Avenue, Redmond. Contact: 703-3093960. KidsEntrepreneurMarket@gmail.com. Free/$12-24 to participate..

Nature Kids: Wild Inventors Join the Deschutes Land Trust for Nature Kids! Get outside and explore Central Oregon on guided family nature walks just for kids ages 5-10. We’ll explore the incredible ways animals turn everyday objects into high-tech solutions. Discover how animals use their brains (and tools) to survive. June 27, 9:30-11am. Indian Ford Meadow, outside Sisters, Sisters. Contact: 541-330-0017. event@deschuteslandtrust.org. Free.

FOOD + DRINK

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: 541-9040134. sistersfarmersmarket@gmail.com. Free.

Summer Chef’s Pairing Experience A summer Chef’s Pairings Experience at the Bend Tasting Room & Restaurant with Winery Ambassador Ashley and Chef Cuin. Enjoy five curated wines paired with four chef crafted dishes in a communal setting. Tickets include gratuity and a $40 bottle credit with a 2+ bottle purchase. Sun, June 28, 4:30-6pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@wvv.com. $95.

Summer Solstice Popup Dinner Series – Chef Adrien x Put a Cork In It - Bend Experience an unforgettable summer evening at Put a Cork in It Wine Bar with award-winning chef Adrien Calmels. This intimate 10-course pop-up dinner celebrates Oregon’s peak summer harvest through refined technique, seasonal ingredients, and optional wine pairings. Limited seating makes this exclusive culinary experience truly special. Sat, June 27, 5-7:30 and 8-10:30pm. Put a Cork In It, 1127 NW Ochoa Dr Suite 100, Bend. $150.

The Art of Risotto: A Hands-On Experience with Chef Thomas Pierucci Chef Thomas Pierucci—a longtime chef who’s worked in San Francisco, New York, and Bend, and now a sales rep with High Desert Produce—hosts a fun, relaxed, and hands-on risotto experience at Frankie’s. June 28, 4-7pm. Frankie’s – formerly Sisters Depot, 250 W Cascade Ave, Sisters, OR 97759, Sisters. $125.

BEER + DRINK

Blind White Wine Tasting A blind tasting of five standout white wines, including new releases. Test the palate by guessing each pour for a chance to win a prize. Enjoy a full tasting flight with olives, nuts, and fresh bread. June 27, 5:30-7pm. Willamette Valley Vineyards, 916 NW Wall St., Bend. Contact: 541-306-6000. bend@ wvv.com. $25.

Creekside BBQ with Cascadian BBQ Co. They will have all the fixins plus Van Henion beer as cold as the Metolius! First Come, First Serve. 12pm - sold out. Located at Lake Creek Lodge in Camp Sherman, Oregon June 24, Noon7pm. HØST Supper Club, 13375 SW Forest Service Road #1419, Camp Sherman. Contact: 541-46065550. chasen@hostsupperclub.com. Free.

Free Rosé Tasting at Viaggio Now’s the time to find your summer ‘porch pounder’ and get set for all the warm weather ahead. Stroll through the showcase of 12 different still and sparkling rosés with free tastings and special purchase discounts. No reservations required - just drop in and enjoy! June 25, 4:30-7pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Free.

Free Sherry Tasting at Viaggio Wine Merchant Free drop-in tasting! Learn more about the fascinating world of Sherry production from one of the best at the game, Bodegas Lustau of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Taste 7 different styles of Sherry and chat with a winery rep. No reservations required. Discounts on purchase of featured wines. June 24, 4:30-7pm. Viaggio Wine Merchant, 210 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-299-5060. info@viaggiowine.com. Free.

Red, White, & Bedazzled Brunch Party Brunch specials, drinks, a live DJ, and high-energy patriotic vibes. Grab the crew, throw on the rhinestones, and brunch the Coyote way. June 27, 11am-3pm. The Coyote, 910 NW Harriman St., Bend. Free.

HEALTH + WELLNESS

26 & 2 Vital Forces Workshop A 3 hour workshop exploring foundational principles within the 26 & 2 practice through biomechanics, breath, nervous system awareness, energetic principles, and sustainable movement patterns. Learn practical tools to support resilience, endurance, recovery, and vitality while creating a deeper connection to the body, breath, and overall practice. June 27, 11:30am-2:30pm. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendyoga.center. $45.

Cards & Crystals Seeking some clarity on a situation or curious about what your guides and ancestors have to share? Kati brings her intuitive gifts to Nature’s Bling on Sunday for 15 and 30-minute Tarot readings. Longer sessions available. Reserve your reading ahead of time at threedeertarot.com June 28, 1-4pm. Nature’s Bling, 133 SW Century Drive, Bend. Contact: 541 640 0888. hello@threedeertarot.com. $44.

Dream : What do they truly mean? Your dreams are talking. This two-hour workshop teaches you how to listen. Moving beyond simple symbol definitions, we use a French method to decode the unique language of your own subconscious — identifying patterns, blind spots, and the messages your sleeping mind sends you. Please bring a dream to share. June 26, 6-8pm. Spectrum Office Building, 354 NE Greenwood Ave, Bend. Contact: hypno4help@gmail.com. 30.

Forest Bathing: A Gentle Nervous System Reset Forest bathing is a guided nature experience that blends mindfulness and nature connection. It helps quiet the mind and brings you into the present moment through your senses. By slowing down and tuning in, your body naturally shifts into a relaxed, restorative state, reducing stress and supporting overall well-being. June 28, 10am-Noon. Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Rd., Bend. Contact: indy@rootedpresence.com. 40.00.

Qigong & Meditation Learn new routines, how to heal the body and most importantly, relax. Each class focuses on specific routines and techniques. Qigong is slow and light, always with modifications or even challenges. Sitting meditation acts as a healing meditation with little to no movement. Tue, June 23, 6-7:15pm and Thu, June 25, 6-7:15pm. Hanai Foundation, 62430 Eagle Road, Bend. Contact: wellspring_whisper@rbx.life. $33-$45.

Reiki Yin These classes invite one to slow down, soften, and reconnect. Long-held postures target fascia, joints, and connective tissue, encouraging release and flow. Reiki, hands-on healing, and craniosacral massage techniques support relaxation and balance. We end with an extended savasana and guided chakra cleanse. Perfect for all levels. June 28, 11am-12:30pm. Bend Yoga Center, 1230 NE 3rd Street, Suite A230, Bend. Contact: yoga@bendyoga.center. $35.

Sunset Sounds: Cacao Ceremony, Reiki, and Sound Bath An evening of ritual, music, connection and inspiration, surrounded by the beauty of the high desert at sunset. Enjoy ceremonial grade cacao, Reiki, and immersive sound scape while enjoying the sun setting over the canyon walls at Smith Rock Amphitheater. June 26, 7-8:45pm. Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne OR, Smith Rock SP, Terrebonne. Contact: 541-9052949. soundbathstillness@gmail.com. $48.

Yoga @ Elk Lake 60-minute Vinyasa yoga class set against the serene backdrop of Elk Lake in Central Oregon. This inclusive all-levels practice invites everyone, from first-time yogis to seasoned practitioners, to experience the harmonious blend of movement, breath, and nature. Sat, June 27, 10-11am. Elk Lake Resort - Lodge Bar & Restaurant, 60000 SW Century Dr., Bend. Contact: 541-316-9213. missie@romingyogabend.com. $25.

CHOW C

Wine, Music, Vibes Maragas Winery is a true Oregon oasis

By Jared Rasic

Iknow it can be one of the most basic things in the world to talk about geography, but bear with me for a second because I’m trying to paint a picture and you must consider the scenery. If you’ve ever driven north on Highway 97 between Bend and Madras, you know the dramatic shift In landscape. The greener regions of Bend proper quickly flatten out into a high desert scrubland where the sun feels hotter and the sagebrush outnumbers the people three-to-one.

But right before you reach Culver, something breathtaking happens. You blink and then all of a sudden there’s a sprawling, vibrant green mirage along the highway, standing sentry, surrounded by volcanic dirt. That oasis is Maragas Winery, a singular destination that feels unique not just to Central Oregon, but to the world.

Embarrassingly, I haven’t been out to Maragas Winery since they’ve been near Culver, but I spent more than a few hours in their tasting room when it was in the spot currently held by Palate Coffee on Colorado. Now that I’ve discovered the winery’s spectacular current acreage, I won’t take it for granted again.

Wine is the lifeblood of founder Doug Maragas, who established Maragas Winery in 1999. However, the Maragas family history in winemaking spans centuries. Their heritage stretches from the ancestral family vineyard in Crete, Greece, to wine grape brokering and custom crush operations in Lodi, California, during the 1940s. Maragas family members learn specific winemaking techniques and protocols from a young age, passing the knowledge and traditions down through generations. You can immediately tell that for Doug, this is not just a business — it is a calling.

It’s impossible to oversell the beauty of the property. Sitting on the expansive patio surrounded by a lush lawn and thriving grape vines, the winery truly feels untouched by time.

“Mother Nature set the scene for us here,” Doug Maragas says. “With Smith Rock on one side, the Cascades on the other, and our vineyard in the middle — surrounding the winery lawn, that’s a fabulous beginning to a relaxing and calming setting.

The property also emphasizes environmental health. “We are also an organic and sustainable vineyard and farm,” Maragas adds. “So, you can take your shoes off and walk the lawn without worry of absorbing anything that will cause an issue. We also placed and built the winery and grape arbor to meld with nature. To top it off, the winery, patio, arbor and lawn have a sound system that evenly distributes high-quality sound that delivers what we hope you will find as soothing and/or uplifting music.”

I was fortunate enough to visit for one of their Sunday Supper Plate meals, where Doug’s wife and partner, Gina Maragas, cooks scratch-made cuisine that pairs exquisitely with the estate’s wines. The Sunday I attended, Gina cooked a Northern Italian Mushroom Lasagna with her own handmade sheets of pasta, layered with porcini, shiitake and portobello mushrooms and finished with a delicate gorgonzola béchamel. As someone who isn’t into mushrooms as much as I know I should be, I can confidently say this was one of the finest lasagnas I’ve ever tasted. The rich, cheesy béchamel perfectly balanced the earthy, savory umami of the triple-mushroom blend. This scratch pasta, combined with exceptional estate wines, gives the entire winery a peaceful, timeless feeling that’s hard to quantify.

“The Sunday Suppers are based on our heritage — mine from Greece and my wife’s from Italy, says Maragas. “Both of our grandparents were born and raised there, so we were raised appreciating the beauty of Southern European cooking. So, we bring European scratch cooking here, in a casual winery setting, to our guests. Upcoming will be a Greek Moussaka, followed shortly after that (every other Sunday) by another Greek dish that centers upon chicken, arugula and lemon orzo.”

Just as you feel a sense of calm as soon as you step onto the grounds, there’s a distinct patience at play in the creation of the wines. The atmosphere is so effortlessly relaxed and unpretentious that the moment you step out of your car, you immediately enter riposo — finding a slow-moving quietude that is easy to forget we need.

by

The 2021 Terrebonne Malbec, aged in oak barrels for 36 months, is just one of the several showstoppers crafted by Doug Maragas. As with his Tempranillo, the balance in these wines is remarkable. From the cedar notes of the Tempranillo to the berry-forward profile of the Malbec, the wines are complex enough to stand alone as meals unto themselves.

However, pairing Doug’s wine with Gina’s cooking creates a truly multi-sensory experience. I found the best pairing to be the decadent lasagna alongside the Cabernet Franc 2018, aged 59 months in New American and French oak. The family’s traditional barrel-room techniques shine here, delivering a deep, complex flavor profile with robust fruit and a shockingly smooth finish.

Doug Maragas is more than a winemaker or a vintner: he’s an artisan practicing a rare, historic craft.

“I believe the key is first, natural winemaking — the same recipe has been used since Roman times and it’s basically four ingredients — grapes, yeast, bacteria and sulfur for reds, and grapes, yeast, clay, and sulfur for whites,” says Maragas. “This, on top of protocols that have been handed down in our family for generations; my family still has a vineyard in Crete, Greece.”

There’s genuine magic out at Maragas Winery where Doug has been quietly crafting exceptional vintages for well over two decades. As I sat drinking wine made with a staggering amount of patience and love, while eating scratch-made lasagna made with the same, looking across the expansive lawn at the awe-inspiring, snowcapped Cascade Mountains and the sharp intensity of Smith Rock, I found myself a little amazed with this world we live in and the people we share it with. I loved being out at Maragas Winery. I know you will, too.

Maragas Winery

Wed-Sun, 11:30am-5pm 15523 SW Hwy 97, Culver maragaswinery.com/ 541-546-5464

LITTLE BITES

By Eli Zatz

Fresh Food for the Summer Season

Under new ownership, Mother’s Juice Cafe is ready to serve up cold refreshments in the summer heat

Smoothies bursting with flavor. Craft wraps and sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients. Fresh pressed juices. For 27 years, Mother’s Juice Cafe has served the Bend public. The Source sat down with Renee Raymond, executive chef and new owner of the Bend staple to learn about the best menu items, recent changes to the business, and ingredient sourcing.

Raymond says that she was the “... face of Mother’s before being the face of Mother’s,” for the last 12 years. As executive chef, Raymond curated menu items while greeting customers with a broad smile at the front counter. Over her time at Mother’s, her menu favorites have stayed consistent. The wheatgrass smoothie with mint and spinach has been a staple of hers, with the Grains and Greens bowl being a close second. One of the goals at Mother’s is to source as locally as possible, says Raymond. Working in conjunction with Portland’s Organically Grown, Childers Meat, Broadus Bees and more, all menu items are guaranteed to be fresh. Raymond tells the Source that in the coming months the restaurant will move to a smaller core menu while creating a host of specials that will rotate

frequently, providing cafe regulars with new and exciting options.

The upcoming changes are part of a restructuring the cafe has been in the heat of over the last few months. Following her purchase of the restaurant in July, 2025, Raymond made the difficult decision to close the eastside location earlier this year, a decision she says is good for the business’s future.

“It’s a good thing combining our efforts into one home — it was time,” says Raymond. With Costco and the library’s location change, a smaller contingent of customers was flowing into the eastside cafe. In conjunction with a lease expiration and rising rent and supply costs, the decision to close the eastside doors was made. With over half of employees transferring to the westside location on Galveston, the cafe is well equipped for the summer rush.

Mother’s Juice Cafe Daily 8am-3pm 1255 NW Galveston Ave, Bend mothersjuicecafe.com/

C CULTURE

I Read for the Human Experience in Books; AI Can’t Replace That

Concerns about artificial intelligence within the literary community

By Christine Bell, Bookseller at Roundabout Books & Cafe

Human experience is the totality of what it means to live — our interactions, our emotions, our thoughts and perceptions as we go through our day-to-day lives. This experience is what shapes how we understand ourselves and the world around us.

Reading is one of many ways we enrich our human experience, just as art is a reflection of one’s human experience. When we pick up a book, be it a sci-fi odyssey that takes place in another world, a memoir that hits close to home, or a history book, we are reading to expand our knowledge, to understand and empathize with another person’s experience in the world.

Artificial intelligence is infiltrating the book writing and publishing business more quickly than I could have imagined. Self-published books are flooding marketplaces, and the ability to differentiate between an AI-written and a human-authored book is becoming more challenging as there is no obligation to disclose who wrote the book. That scares me.

I don’t want to read about human emotions and experiences from something that is not actually human. The beauty of reading has always been in knowing that one human being has put these words on paper so that they could share their world view in one way or another. If a machine is emulating a person, my own emotions and empathy for the work will be dulled knowing that it didn’t come from a human brain and a set of uniquely human experiences. A machine can scoop up the world’s knowledge and spit it back out without the hard work of sitting at a desk and plotting, character building, and finding just the right words to build a work of art. The final product is not as admirable; the element of human achievement is gone.

Longer term, I worry about what happens to original thought and creativity when we are no longer doing the work but allowing AI to do it for us. If AI engines are trained from the breadth of content that already exists in the world, we lose the potential for entirely new and wholly unconsidered ways of looking at our world. Art has evolved over the centuries; its forms and messages reflecting and redefining cultures, societies and norms. Our society could not have evolved as it has without human creativity. If human art isn’t needed anymore and machines take over those creations, what is our real purpose in the world? Maybe AI can create a more grammatically correct sentence but is that sentence going to contain a new idea? There is also a huge risk that it spreads misinformation as it regurgitates web content that is untrue.

The publishing industry is threatened as well. The long-term health of the industry, and authors’ livelihoods are undergoing transformation. If we don’t champion human work, then authors and the publishing world will become irrelevant. The creativity and innovation reflecting our human experience and that builds connections between us will be lost. I am not willing to let that happen.

As you explore your own thoughts and feelings about AI’s impact on the world and publishing, I recommend a few human-authored books.

“The God Test: Artificial Intelligence and Our Coming Cosmic Reckoning” by Robert Wright captures the power behind the AI revolution. The book argues that we are about to witness the most abruptly dramatic social transformation in the history of our species.

“The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State” by Jill Lepore. Lepore argues that political campaigns, awash in fake bots, have been reduced to attention-mining algorithms, while media corporations dictate public discourse, and the era of the liberal nation-state seems to be coming to a rapid end, replaced by billionaire technocrats reliant on autocracy and the tools of AI

“AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What It Can’t, and How to Tell the Difference” by Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor. By revealing AI’s limits and real risks, this book will help you make better decisions about whether and how to use AI at work and home.

Ultimately, AI is here to stay. It will have sweeping impacts on science, cultural norms, governments, politics, labor, ethics, our ways of connecting with each other and our values systems. We can’t stop AI, and we recognize that AI technology is advancing many facets of life. But as readers, let’s choose books that have been written by human beings — people who have lived triumphs and failures, known true love and sadness, ached with jealousy and shimmered with joy. Let’s read books written by people who, even with all their differences, are just like us. If we don’t take this moment now to protect the sharing of human experience, we will lose it forever.

The American Bookseller Association has identified six AI issues for independent bookstores that impact the industry and readers alike:

• Book Ratings & Censorship: ABA opposes any state efforts to use AI to rate books for obscenity and to affect bans.

• Bias, Transparency and Ethical Accountability: ABA urges lawmakers to advocate for ethical AI policies that ensure transparency and accuracy while preventing biases in AI learning models.

• Data Privacy and Security: ABA supports national data privacy laws to avoid a patchwork of state regulations.

• Intellectual Property and Copyright Infringement AI models trained on copyrighted books without author consent is unethical and could be ruled illegal pending the outcome of numerous court cases currently in play.

• Competition and Market Fairness: Lawmakers and regulators must enforce antitrust policies and fair competition regulations to prevent big tech dominance.

• Regulatory Walls and Compliance Burdens: The ABA opposes any AI regulations that favor large corporate retailers by unduly creating compliance challenges for small businesses.

SC SCREEN

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Machine

Artificial intelligence in film

By Jared Rasic

Cinema has long been obsessed with the concept of machines that can think, feel and one day be indistinguishable from their creators. When done correctly, artificial intelligence as a cinematic device can serve as a perfect mirror for human anxiety, ambition and existential dread; at its worst, it’s a goofy stab at speculative fear-mongering, nervously imagining a future where our place in the world is entirely nebulous.

The reality is probably somewhere in between.

Mhairi Aitkeen, an ethics fellow at the Alan Turing Institute, says it would be more realistic for movies to show “AI not as a character, but rather as systems in the background that might influence plot lines while not being the central focus.” That doesn’t sound hugely entertaining. But as someone who’s been watching movies about AI — both rogue and otherwise — since I was a wee lad, I’ve made my own list of some of the best and worst films the subgenre has to offer.

Here are a few.

Best: “Her” (2013): While the concept of someone falling in love with an operating system sounds like something quirky and twee straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, in the hands of auteur writer/director Spike Jonze, it becomes not just a stirring metaphor for the heartbreak of watching your partner evolve past you, but a deep dive into the possible limits of intimacy when your person knows, literally, everything about you. “Her” is a stunning and groundbreaking picture that treats AI as both a blessing and a curse.

Worst: “Mercy” (2026): A schlocky, real-time sci-fi thriller where Chris Pratt is accused of murdering his wife and has 90 minutes — while strapped to a chair — to prove his innocence before an AI judge, jury and executioner puts him to death. I’m not entirely positive that the movie comes out in favor of a surveillance state, but it certainly treats some inherently fascist

ideas as worth exploring. Most of the film is shot from the POV of drones, social media feeds and CCTV, meaning it looks just as ugly as it sounds.

Best: “Blade Runner” (1982): What makes “Blade Runner” such a prescient piece of specula tive fiction is that it takes its concept to its most logical conclusion, viewed through the lens of the best and worst instincts of human nature. If an invention like replicants existed in real life, we would love them at first. They would be our nannies, our sex workers and our fast food employees. Then, we would eventually resent them for not being us, hunting them for profit and sport. Are replicants AI? I’m not sure, but they’re definite ly our future.

Worst: “Transcendence” (2014): Johnny Depp plays a scientist trying to create a sentient computer to help the human race transcend its own mortality, eventually uploading his own consciousness to a quantum machine. While the ridiculous screenplay attempts to touch on bleeding-edge tech like sentient nanoparticles and bio-printed organics, it’s all

When

a man loves an operating system.

so goofily written that the science feels more akin to magic. With Christopher Nolan on board as a producer, there are some genuinely thought-provoking ideas, but the logic, plot and action sequences fail miserably.

There are so many fantastic movies that take the basic concept of artificial intelligence and expand it into unpredictable, innovative places. “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) is one of the first films in history to take an artificial character, HAL 9000, and give it terrifying agency. “The Matrix” took a red pill and a blue pill and turned them into a metaphor for expanding human consciousness. “Tron” imagined uploading that consciousness into a digital space for deadly fun and games. Meanwhile, “Ex Machina” imagines a future where humanity becomes so selfish and abusive that we are the ones who should be evaluated with a Turing test.

But if you’re looking for a terrible one to laugh at with some friends, you can’t go wrong with “Stealth” (2005). It’s a bombastic brain freeze of a movie about the Navy uploading an AI into a stealth fighter, leading to lots of CGI dogfights and hilarious conversations about the morality of a plane. It’s highly entertaining if you’ve had a few drinks, but the soundtrack featuring Incubus, David Bowie and Kasabian is the real highlight.

Ultimately, the quality of a film about artificial intelligence relies almost entirely on the intellect and humanity of the writers. Because we are still so early into the lifespan of this technology, these stories work equally well as speculative fiction and as metaphors dissecting the morality and vulnerabilities of the human race. Moving forward, the most dramatically successful films focused on AI will be the ones that avoid surface-level sparkle and really unearth the psychological complications of coexisting with our own flawed, perfect creations.

Will people still want to pay me for my thoughts when ChatGPT can write a 700-word review in five seconds? I certainly hope so. At least that’s what Google told me to think.

OUTSIDE

Using AI to Detect Wildfires Faster

Multiple

agencies

in Oregon

are using a “human-in-the-loop” model while incorporating AI technology

By Nic Moye

Agencies and officials tasked with keeping vigilant watch over remote areas prone to wildfires have been incorporating artificial intelligence into their toolkit.

PacifiCorp, which is embattled in a class action lawsuit for its role in four major wildfires in Oregon during 2020, says its recently invested in advanced cameras and camera networks to monitor wildfire conditions and help detect fires quickly. Since 2024, the company, which owns Pacific Power, has added 18 Pano AI-enabled cameras with five in Oregon, five in Utah and eight in California. Pano AI technology combines high-definition camera feeds, satellite data and AI monitoring. Launching in 2020, the company currently has cameras in 17 states.

PacifiCorp spokesperson Simon Gutierrez says the cameras provide a 360-degree view with a 30x zoom, allowing the power company to monitor a wide swath of land from a single camera. Altogether, the cameras cover 7,462 miles of transmission and overhead power lines in high fire risk areas. PacifiCorp has a Wildfire Intelligence Center which is manned seven days a week. Gutierrez says last year the Pano AI cameras provided 1,612 smoke detections and 64 fire alerts. Of those, he told the Source, 777 of the smoke detections and 27 fires were in Oregon. In 2024, when the cameras were first installed, 723 smoke detections and 24 fires were spotted across the state. Gutierrez says there are 29 other agencies in Oregon that have access to their cameras.

Derek Gasperini, communications manager for the Oregon Department of Forestry, says while ODF does not currently use AI heavily in early detection, monitoring or responding to wildfires, this season the agency will be using a new, multi-mission aircraft that does have some AI-augmented technology. The Twin Otter airframe is replacing the agency’s long-serving Partenavia P.68 Observer aircraft which is retiring after more than 40 years of service. The new aircraft is equipped with AI-enabled wide-area mapping, high-definition thermal imaging, and mission management software with 3D map visualization and night operations capability. It will allow ODF to identify and communicate new fire starts more quickly and track fire behavior with greater precision, both during the day and at night.

“We’re always looking to use new technology when it has proven effectiveness,” Gasperini told the Source. “With AI evolving rapidly, we are looking for opportunities but can’t endanger the successful tools we currently use for early detection and response. The stakes are too high.”

The Oregon Hazards Lab at the University of Oregon operates 70 wildfire cameras in Oregon with more being added this summer. Associate Director of Research and Development Nick Maggio says eight of those cameras are in Central Oregon. “These include cameras in and around high-value viewsheds near Bend, Prineville, Sisters, Pine Mountain, Green Mountain and other high points that provide views of the surrounding wildland and wildland-urban interface.”

Each OHAZ camera can rotate 360 degrees, tilt and zoom up to 40 times with a range up to 30 miles during the day and up to 40 miles at night using near-infrared capability.

“The AI component is used for detection support,” Maggio explains. “The system regularly scans panoramic camera imagery for visual anomalies that may indicate a new ignition, such as daytime smoke or a heat source at night. Those potential detections are reviewed by ALERTWest operations technicians before alerts are sent to fire and emergency response professionals. In other words, AI is not making the final public safety decision. It is drawing attention to possible new wildfire starts so a trained staff member can review them, filter out false positives and alert the appropriate responders when warranted.”

He says the cameras can also be used after a 911 call to confirm whether there is a fire, where it is and how big it is, before sending resources.

DID YOU KNOW...

“I would describe AI as a powerful tool, not a replacement for people. The game-changing part is its ability to monitor huge volumes of imagery and draw human attention to something that might otherwise be missed or discovered later,” Maggio says. “The limitations are also important. AI can make mistakes. Weather and lighting can complicate detection, and false positives are always possible. That is why we use a human-in-the-loop model. The best system is not AI alone, nor humans alone trying to stare at hundreds of cameras. It is AI helping people focus their attention faster.”

There are over 270 unique wildfire detection camera sites across Oregon owned and operated by utilities, universities, private entities and state and federal agencies. Many of the cameras are available to the public through ALERTWest.live.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Oregon Hazards Lab is using advanced sensing, automation and AI-adjacent technologies to support the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network and ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system in Oregon. The lab is also involved in research to support the next generation of environmental research using AI in conjunction with the National Science Foundation’s Sage Continuum, which is a testbed that uses AI sensors in the field to collect real-time environmental data.

GO HERE

By Nic Moye

Holiday Festivities & 250th Birthday Celebrations

A roundup of local events happening on July 3 & 4

With the Fourth of July holiday on Saturday this year, and coinciding with the nation’s 250th birthday, there’s no shortage of celebrations around Central Oregon.

Bend

Redmond

Sunriver

The Discovery West neighborhood west of Northwest Crossing in Bend is celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday on Friday, July 3, with food vendors, square dancing lessons, games and a live DJ. The evening ends with 100 drones lighting up the sky in a patriotic display around 9:45pm. The traditional pet parade will do a lap through downtown Bend the morning of July 4. It’s free to participate. Just show up at the Harmon Park staging area with your furry friends dressed in red, white and blue. No cats or rabbits are allowed.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars in Bend is holding a patriotic birthday bash celebrating the nation’s 250th. Festivities kick off at 2pm, July 4, with a BBQ rib contest. Live music from The Cutmen begins at 5pm. Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs and stay to watch the fireworks.

Stars & Stripes Celebration

Fri, July 3, 8-10pm Discovery West

1125 NW Ochoa Dr, Bend discoverywestbend.com/july-3-stars-stripes-atdiscovery-west/ Free

Pet Parade

Sat, July 4, 9:30am Harmon Park

1100 NW Harmon Blvd, Bend bendparksandrec.org/activities/4th-of-july/ Free

USA 250th Celebration

Sat, July 4, 2-9pm VFW Post 1643

1503 NE Fourth St, Bend facebook.com/bendvfw/

Redmond starts the party early on Friday, July 3, and continues with a patriotic parade and fireworks on July 4. The block party Friday includes free snow cones, free hot dogs and free bouncy houses. There’ll also be lawn games, face painting, a patriotic pet costume contest and living history presentations.

Redmond Celebration

250th Birthday Celebration Fri, July 3, 4-8pm

Centennial Park

Parade Sat, July 4, 10am-Noon Downtown Redmond redmond250usa.com/ Free

Sisters

To motivate participants, the 3-Miler run/walk comes with a pancake/sausage breakfast, a costume contest and more. Money raised benefits the Sisters High School Outlaw XC team.

Red, White & Blue 3-Miler

Sat, July 4, 7:45am-Noon Village Green Park 335 S Elm St, Sisters runsistersrun.com/ $25-$40

La Pine

La Pine is celebrating 50 years of Frontier Days. The multi-day event kicks off July 1 celebrating America’s birthday. Each day a series of performers will bring history alive with short vignettes about why the colonists revolted and who emerged as early leaders of the country. There will also be live music along with a wide array of activities, including an apple pie contest, lawnmower races, a beard/mustache contest, a woodcutters chop and a parade that starts at 10:30am on the 4th.

Frontier Days

Wed-Sat, July 1-4

16405 1st Street, La Pine lapinefrontierdays.org/ Free

The parade in Sunriver is a family affair with all ages rolling through the Village on July 4 in the annual bike parade. Other family friendly activities include pony rides, contests, carnival games and live entertainment. Proceeds go to local charities.

4th of July Bike Parade Sat, July 4, 11am-3pm Village at Sunriver 57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver village-properties.com/event/sunriver-4th-july-bike-parade-2026/

$30 Family of Four

Prineville

The annual celebration in Prineville includes local vendors, food trucks, live music and kid activities. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and make a day of it!

Independence Day Celebration Sat, July 4, 10am-3pm Pioneer Park

450 NE 3rd St, Prineville ccprd.org/independence-day-celebration Free

Large 3-Topping Pizza

THE PSYCHEDELIC FRONTIER

By Mary Casanave Sheridan

A Word on Background Checks

Q: I’m a psychedelic practitioner, and I’ve been thinking about safety in ceremony. I’m wondering about your thoughts on background checks. It feels like it goes against my value of holding space for everyone seeking transformation. How do you navigate this?

A: There’s a very frank conversation we need to have about background checks in psychedelic work. It challenges some of our deepest beliefs about redemption while honoring our responsibility to those who trust us.

I used to resist this completely. It felt like spiritual judgment and contrary to everything I believed about the medicine’s power to transform. I also trusted my intuition, karma, and angels to keep me safe and give me all the information I needed. I was naïve. But experience has taught me to make more informed choices. But information isn’t the end of the conversation. It’s the doorway to a much more honest one.

A background check isn’t always a determination on its own. It’s information that allows for fuller conversation. Our intuition, discernment, capacity, skill level, personal history and biases, and the person’s genuine engagement with accountability all factor into the decision. Having all the facts leads to deeper understanding, better outcomes and safer ceremonies.

The first layer of decision making is not cognitive, it’s energetic discernment. We can and should deny service to anyone, anytime, if we have a strong intuitive “no” feeling. I mean that clear, unmistakable knowing that comes through our established and trusted channels for receiving guidance. Acting against this inner knowing damages the very work we do.

Our connection to the unseen realms depends on trusting what we sense, even when it’s inconvenient or challenges our desire to be helpful. The actions we take have ripple effects. When we give people access to rites of passage and sacred spaces they aren’t ready for, it isn’t a benign act of compassion. It’s a violation of the energetic integrity of the field we work in.

That said, there are times when someone’s history looks concerning on paper, yet we still feel clearly called to work with them. When this is the case, the motive must be held with brutal self-honesty. Are we choosing this client or work from ego? Trying to be a savior? Seeking validation or reward? If so, step back. These motivations put both you and the client in danger of real harm.

How someone responds when presented with their history is essential

information. I’ve seen this go different ways. When someone meets the information with honesty, humility, and integrity about their concerning personal history, that tells me something important. When the response is defensive, deflecting, dismissive, or minimizing, that’s a massive red flag to proceed with extreme caution, if at all. Either way, if this awareness has not yet been met with actions like repair, accountability, and reflection, work in the psychedelic realms might not be helpful, and could even be damaging, leading to further ingraining problematic behaviors or beliefs.

If you feel it is within your skillset, capacity, and ethics to hold space for such a client, there can be compelling reasons to hold space for people with concerning pasts. When working with higher-risk populations, those with histories of criminal violence, hate/bias, fraud, negligence or anti-social behavior, it’s important to recognize manipulation and warning signs of personality disorders, to know your limitations, to have support, and to have clear and strong boundaries and ethics. Be open, cautious, kind, adept, and move without fear or judgement.

The Sacred No

Sometimes the most spiritual thing we can do is say no. Our ceremonial spaces are places where people dissolve their defenses to access profound understanding and evolution. If someone hasn’t done the foundational work of accountability outside the medicine space, they may not be ready for the vulnerability these containers require.

Don’t override your intuition to be a hero. It won’t work out the way you hope, and you’ll likely compromise the safety of others in the process. The medicine teaches us that everything is connected. The boundaries we hold in our individual work strengthen the reputation of the entire community.

And one final word, if you do choose to use them, background checks should be done with consent and used fairly and consistently in your standard intake process. Include this requirement clearly on your website, intake forms, and bring it up in consultation conversations. —Have questions about navigating psychedelics? Send them to Mary@Myco. Vision for future columns.

TAKE ME HOME

By Nathan Powers Engel Volkers Bend

Real Estate Is Still a People Business

You’ve probably noticed that artificial intelligence is everywhere. AI is reshaping how people work, communicate, and access information. Real estate is no exception. Buyers, sellers and real estate professionals are incorporating AI into their daily lives—but not always in the same ways. As AI continues to evolve, it’s worth asking: how is it being used in real estate, and where does the human element still matter most?

AI Never Sleeps

For real estate professionals, AI is becoming an around-the-clock assistant. Agents use it to draft property descriptions, summarize market reports, generate social media content, create listing presentations, and brainstorm marketing campaigns.

Instead of spending hours staring at a blank screen, many agents now spend minutes refining AI-generated drafts. The result is less time devoted to repetitive tasks and more time serving clients.

The New Home Search Tool

Consumers are using AI like a personal research assistant. Rather than searching dozens of websites, buyers can ask questions such as:

• What neighborhoods in Bend are best for young families?

• What can I afford with a $650,000 budget?

• What should I know before buying a home with a septic system?

AI can provide answers and help buyers become more informed before they contact an agent. It can also help explain financing options, compare neighborhoods and simplify complex real estate terminology.

Sellers Are Getting Smarter

Homeowners are also using AI to prepare their homes for sale.

HOME PRICE ROUNDUP

Common uses include:

• Home staging suggestions

• Renovation recommendations

• Estimated return on investment for upgrades. AI can help sellers identify ways to improve their home’s appeal before meeting with a real estate professional. While it can’t replace expert advice, it can help homeowners ask better questions and make more informed decisions.

Where Humans Still Win

AI has some major limitations. AI doesn’t attend inspections. AI doesn’t navigate difficult negotiations. AI doesn’t walk through a home and notice the smell of cigarette smoke, the sound of nearby traffic or the feeling a buyer gets when they step into a room.

Most importantly, AI lacks emotional intelligence. Buying or selling a home remains one of the most emotional financial decisions people make. Understanding a family’s concerns, navigating negotiations and building trust are still distinctly human skills. AI can analyze data, but it can’t replace the local knowledge that comes from years of living, working and building relationships within a community. It can tell you where a house is located, but it can’t tell you what it’s like to live there.

The Future Isn’t AI or Humans—It’s AI and Humans

The most likely future isn’t one in which AI replaces real estate professionals. Instead, professionals who learn to use AI effectively will gain an advantage. AI can help people work faster, research smarter, and communicate more clearly. But relationships, experience, judgment and trust remain the foundation of real estate.

ASTROLOGY

By Rob Brezsny

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Now is an auspicious time to declare a sweeping amnesty and observe a personal season of pardon. To the best of your ability, release your clenched feelings about people who have caused you pain. Banish blame! Purge any lingering resentment and regret that has curdled into self -reproach. Celebrate atonement and absolution! Most vital of all, exonerate yourself. Shed the guilt you’ve carried for missteps and missed chances. And please offer yourself a sweet gift: a ritual of renewal.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): If you happen to be swallowed whole by a dragon or whale sometime soon, don’t freak out. It’s far preferable to being chomped into bits first, which absolutely won’t happen. You may indeed spend a brief spell inside the creature’s dark belly, but I confidently predict you will ultimately be deposited on the outside in one intact piece, after which you will only need to find your meandering way back home. The whole episode may be confounding or humbling, but I bet it will also scrub you free of a load of old karma.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Bees perform what scientists call a "waggle dance" to communicate the location of flowers to their hive-mates. But the directions are sometimes imprecise, and the apparent sloppiness actually helps the hive. It forces other bees to explore more broadly, discovering new food sources that the original bee missed. Perfect information would make them too efficient to be adaptable. Your precision is one of your gifts, Virgo, but right now I think you need strategic vagueness and fuzzy logic. Leave some directions unclear. Mistakes and misunderstandings might lead to discoveries that your perfect plans would have eliminated.

for freedom, not a suppression of it. While others fantasize about escaping responsibility, you know that mastery is key to every emancipation. When properly practiced, your flair for discipline adds vigor as well as rigor. More than any other sign of the zodiac, you are adept at using limits to give unlimited possibilities their specific shape. I trust you will express all these Capricornian powers to the max in the coming weeks. People in your life need them even more than usual.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Horticulturists practice "deadheading.” They remove spent flowers from plants to encourage new vitality. Faded flowers drain energy that could go toward fresh growth. Plants that have been deadheaded produce more abundant blooms than those left to manage their own decay. I recommend a metaphorical version of this practice to you, Aquarius. You’ll be wise to deadhead your emotional garden. Certain attachments, once vibrant and nourishing, have expired. They're not evil or wrong; they're simply finished. It’s best not to keep directing precious energy toward maintaining their faded forms. With gratitude for the old beauty, clear the way for new beauty.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In ancient Greek thought, kairos referred to the opportune moment. It meant the right timing, when circumstances aligned for action to be most effective. The term chronos, on the other hand, was about sequential time, which blindly marched forward without any regard for special moments or auspiciousness. Most of us are more or less hypnotized by chronos-consciousness. We measure our lives by calendar dates and external schedules. But in the coming weeks, Libra, I recommend you stay on high alert for kairos-rich pivots. For now, suspend inquiries like “Am I on schedule?” and ask, "Are the circumstances ripe?"

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Ravens are strongly motivated to engage in elaborate play: aerial acrobatics, complex games, sliding down snowbanks, and sharing food with non-relatives. These behaviors lack an immediate payoff, yet support learning, motor skill development, and social relationships. They seem to be both emotionally rewarding and indirectly advantageous for survival and success over the long term. Let’s apply this to you, Scorpio. Let’s conclude that delight isn't wastefully frivolous and that pleasure doesn't need to justify itself through productivity. In the coming weeks, you may face pressure to explain or defend your joy, as if to prove it’s worth it in some utilitarian way. Refuse. Like the ravens, engage in purposeless beauty and fun simply because it feels so good.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Glaciologists studying ice cores can read Earth's climate history going back 800,000 years. Each layer contains trapped air bubbles. These are time capsules that preserve the atmospheric composition of each moment. The ice remembers everything. You accumulate similar records, Sagittarius. Each of your experiences leaves its trace. And in the coming weeks, you will have extra access to these archived layers of your own history. Memories and patterns you thought were lost will surface with intriguing clarity. I hope you study these revelations to glean insight about your long-term patterns and cycles. It’s time to see the Big Picture.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Many people forget, but you know: Structure is the foundation

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): For maximum safety, be as uninteresting as possible. Shun risks that might shake up your beliefs and avoid adventures that could expose you to people who aren’t similar to you. If you really want to be certain about preserving your security and stability, as I'm recommending, the surest method is to retreat to your power spot and do nothing at all. WAIT! STOP! Dear Pisces, everything I just said was pure misdirection! I was joking! In fact, the opposite is true. The true way to nurture genuine safety and security is to pursue what sparks your curiosity and lights up your zeal. And the coming days are likely to provide you with plenty of chances to do exactly that.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The interesting struggles you'll wage in the coming weeks will require your vulnerability: showing up exactly as you are when you might rather fight or escape. Your warrior nature probably prefers a clear enemy or a definable problem you can confront, but the truer conquest will come from laying down your weaponry. I suggest you meet aggression with curiosity and engage chaos with receptive stillness. At least for now, your greatest strength will be to remain undominated by your own reactive impulses. Think of it as an advanced martial art.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to be inspired by this wisdom from artist Pablo Picasso: “I am always doing that which I cannot do in order that I may learn how to do it.” He’s proposing that we treat a lack of expertise not as an embarrassment, but as a doorway. Instead of waiting until we feel ready, trained, and confident, he suggests we head into territory where we fumble, guess, and feel awkward. Our discomfort may lead to gratifying growth. So I dare you to ask yourself whether there's a capacity or skill you’d love to add to your repertoire but are too shy or timid to try. Then take small, imperfect steps toward it, trusting that each move will teach you how to do what once felt impossible.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Hummingbirds keep track of every flower they visit and know how long it will take each one to replenish its nectar. They maintain mental maps of many feeding sites and visit them on precise schedules. To ensure their survival, they can’t waste energy on flowers that aren't ready yet. Your mind could work like this if you want it to, Gemini. Which people, places, and projects need time to refill before you visit them again? Who have you been approaching too frequently, seeking their nectar before it has had time to regenerate? In the coming weeks, practice strategic patience with your resources. In your secret conversations with yourself, call yourself “Hummingbird.”

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Pearl’s Puzzle

Puzzle for the week of June 22, 2026 Difficulty Level:

Beekeeper of crosswords, I mean, movies 53 More, in adspeak 54 Track outing 57 "That sounds interesting"

Fill in every row, column, and 3x3 box with each of the letters A N G E R Y I P S exactly once.

The highlighted letters read left to right and top to bottom will complete the quote: "Summer is come, for every now ."

- Henry Howard

Answer for the week of June 15, 2026

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLES

E I H W T O S R R T O E A S W I H S W H I O R T E A W H T S R A E O I

E S A O H I R W T

O I R T E W H A S

“I’d like to have a kid, but I’m not sure I’m ready to spend 10 years of my life constantly asking someone where his shoes are.” — Damien Fahey

“I’d like to have a kid, but I’m not sure I’m ready to spend 10 years of my life constantly asking someone where his shoes are.” - Damien Fahey